Qatar Happening - September 2016 by Qatar Happening

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Corniche, Doha Competition Winner: Mr Kris Anthony Romblon “I think this photo shows Qatar’s roots as a nation, the Dhow was what allowed Qataris to survive in bygone years, when they were a nation of pearl divers and fishermen. In the background, one can see the skyscrapers racing toward the sky; all of this new development is due to the discovery of Qatar’s plentiful oil & gas reserves. This image clearly captures the history and development of Qatar.” Prize: Mr Kris Anthony Romblon will receive dinner for two at Isaan – Grand Hyatt Doha. Every Saturday is “Ba Mee” night and offers four selections of noodles to share with a choice of a noodle based appetizer, soup, curry and stir-fried dishes. Look out for our new photography competition – Qatar Through Your Eyes on our website as well as on our Twitter, Instagram & Facebook accounts.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 12 Michael Fassbender on the set of ‘The Light Between Oceans’

September 2016 EVERY ISSUE 7

Editor-In-Chief's Letter

QH's Editor-in-Chief tells you what's happening this month

The QH Grab-Bag

It Happened

ENTERTAINMENT 11

Top Picks

A Man Of Feeling

Tribal Colours

Party Happenings

Paint, Promote, Preserve

Arts & Culture Listings

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha

100 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

The Irish heartthrob, Michael Fassbender opens up about his latest film, The Light Between Oceans and how he was drawn to this romantic drama. Latina Balada Night at Toro Toro brings a taste of South America to Doha. Yet another great excuse to go out on school night!

Virgin Recommends

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Entertainment Listings

We profile rising Qatari artists Bouthayna Al-Muftah and find out what her art is all about and what it means to be a full time artist in Qatar.

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Our top five must-see films of the month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com QH Sep 2016 - FINAL.indd 5

A taste of the fun and vibrant Filipino culture right here in Doha, check out this busy entrepreneur’s inspiring fashion story.

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 41

Top Picks

Healthy Bouncing Little Ones

Take a look at some handy places that QH contributor Lynsey Riach has compiled for you, so that your baby can stay happy healthy, and engaged.

Cultural Chameleons

Community Listings

Just what does it take to positively thrive in today’s multicultural word, QH spoke with Amelia Moreno from the British Council to learn more. Find out everything that’s going on this month

pg 58 Wahm’s new look is simply gorgeous! FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

Friday Brunch At Al Hubara

Throw Some Yin Into Your Lifestyle

Old World Charm

Across The River Clyde

True Bliss

If you looking for a change to your Friday routine, then take a look at our Sheraton Grand Doha brunch review courtesy of QH’s Luciana Franca.

Rescue Me!

A not so well known gem, until now that is, Cafe #999 is your new emergency pit stop for when your tummy starts to grumble. Read on!

With life sometime overwhelming these days, time to focus on one’s self is sorely needed. Hannah Varley tells us how we can mentally “regroup” and exercise all at once with Yin yoga.

School is back but how can you ensure that your child’s health remains a priority. Take a peek at some tips from fitness experts EVOLVE –Mind/Body/ Soul to find out more.

Street Food

The Doha Marriott’s Chef Oliver speaks to QH about his Thursday night Street Food concept and why he thinks it’s going down so well with Doha’s foodies.

Healthy Lifestyle Tips For Kids

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

A trip to Europe may be just out of reach but no need to worry, QH has you covered with our staycation review of the Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha this month. Scotland doesn’t naturally spring to mind when considering your next vacation but a closer look shows that this small northern European country punches well above its weight.

Want to feel like a Hollywood star? Then why not try the Hollywood facial? Bliss Spa at the W Doha Hotel & Residences has all the tips and tricks you need to make you feel like a million bucks.

Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome. Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com luciana@qatarhappening.com

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Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

+974 4427 8416 +974 5584 4905 +974 4427 8415

Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar

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From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief

On The Cover?

About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com.

Dear friends, I would like to wish you all a blessed Eid Mubarak as we approach the upcoming Eid Al Adha celebrations in mid-September. As we all know, this festivity marks the time when Muslims go on their annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. This is a mandatory religious duty for all able-bodied Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime. September marks the start of yet another academic year as families return back to Qatar from their summer holidays. After what has been a rather long and hot summer, the September issue witnesses the awakening of the city once more as events and activities start to flood back into town. From art exhibitions, to music events, community activities and your monthly dose of our reviews, there is certainly a lot to keep you busy each week of this month. In Arts & Culture, we turn our gaze to Europe and take in the 9 Edition of the Berlin Biennale For Contemporary Art. Closer to home, we also check in on rising Qatari artist Bouthayna Al Muftah as she shares her passion for the arts and her desire to promote and preserve Qatari culture. th

In our Community section this month we learn about intercultural fluency as we chat with Amelia Moreno from the British Council. Also in Community, we touch on the subject of high-performance learning with Doha College as children and parents all across Qatar gear up for yet another demanding and hopefully rewarding school year.

Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Mr. Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editorial Director: Antony D. Antoniou Art Director / Production Manager: Lindsey Steenkamp Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Sales & Marketing Manager: Luciana Cunha Franca Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager: Marian Nagy Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Social Media Coordinator: Donnabelle Ribu Office Administrator: Carmela Yao Administrative & Marketing Coordinator: Mirasol Vinculado Distribution Assistant: Jaya Prasad Gautam Contributors: Viva press - Charlie Wilcox, Jareh Das,

Hannah Varley, Rabiah M., Lynsey Riach, Francesca Cruz, John Hunt, Paul Martin

In Sport, we ‘centre’ ourselves and look at the topic of Yin Yoga with long time QH contributor Hannah Varley. Also, this month, the wellness experts at EVOLVE –Mind/Body/Soul tell us how to keep children healthy and happy throughout the school year. Of course, we have some great food reviews at both the Sheraton and at the quirkily named Cafe #999, not to mention our amazing front cover for Wahm Restaurant and Lounge, which just recently underwent a fabulous makeover, be sure to read more in our Food section. We hope you find our stories for September eye-opening and inspiring and don’t forget to look out for our great competitions online through our Facebook and Twitter accounts. Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers. All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.

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This month’s QH Grab Bag is all about indulgence and new learning experiences, as we give away a one night stay at Al Sharq Village and Spa with breakfast in Al Liwan -international buffet restaurant. In addition, we will also provide the lucky winner with a cooking class with Chef Evangelos Liakouris at Al Dana, the Mediterranean seafood restaurant. To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on September 12.

Images courtesy of Al Sharq Village and Spa

Al Sharq Village and Spa

Located on the coastline of Doha Bay, Sharq Village & Spa is one of Doha’s unique hotels with a natural beach, two unique outdoor swimming pools and the Six Senses Spa that offers a holistic experience for travellers and residents seeking recreation and relaxation in the city. With new water sports facilities and activities recently introduced in the hotel, guests seeking a relaxing sea experience may rent stand up boards, kayak and pedal boats from the beach, available every day from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The hotel’s young guests, aged four to twelve, can enjoy a wide selection of vacation activities carefully prepared for them for a journey of memories they will treasure for a lifetime. Finding Nemo, to discovering the aquatic world of Qatar; gift of nature, to an awareness and educational programme about organic treasures in the hotel (mandarin, honey, mint…etc) and other fun activities by the pool and beach: watching movies under the stars, swimming lessons, sand castles, beach volleyball, water polo, and water balloon challenges.

selections like roasted lamb ouzzi, mashawi mushakala; samak harra; samak chermoula and a display of fresh seafood such as sea bass, red snapper; lobster; tiger prawns; hammour and salmon. At the grill station guests may feast on a selection of fine meats including beef sirloin; shish taouk; lamb kofta and marinated lamb cutlets.

Cooking Class Itinerary

• From 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Welcome Coffee break • 10:30 a.m. Warm Welcome from the Chefs and a small introduction • Group Photo of all the participants with the Chefs • From 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Time period of cooking class) • 12:30 p.m. Food tasting • 1: 00 p.m. Lunch • Fond farewell and goody bag offered (with photo, certificate & recipe in USB) n For reservations and more information, please call +974 4425 6185 email: rc.dohsq.membership@ritzcarlton.com or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage

Also available is the new Pool and Beach membership programme, starting from QAR 150 for a daily admission, to gain access to an exclusive world of exceptional benefits at the luxury beachfront resort. The membership entitles guests and their family members to VIP reservation benefits, dining benefits, preferential access to amenities and services

Al Liwan

Those diners opting to dine at Al Liwan can sample an array of local, regional and international specialties. The buffet spread is a selection of Oriental and Lebanese meze, freshly prepared salads, traditional Qatari specialties, scrumptious saj and markouk breads and an assortment of homemade moua’janat, all of which are served within an authentic Arabian atmosphere. Headed by Executive Chef Hassan Abdallah, the buffet varies each day combining new specialties and regional favourites with such mouth-watering

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ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DJ Legacy VybeZ

Fridays: Z Lounge. Enjoy an evening listening to the best VybeZ at the highest Venue in D-Town. Why not sample a mix of sushi platters and drinks with an amazing Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Hora Feliz’ Happy Hour

Daily: El Faro. Hola amigos! Unwind in the authentically Spanish ambiance of El Faro and get the chance to enjoy the buy-one-get-one offer on selected signature beverages, delicious tapas and refreshments. Plus, they’ve extended the Hora Feliz on Fridays and Saturdays for more after-brunch fun! Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., and Friday to Saturday from 3:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

FOUR SEASONS Kanpai

Daily: Nobu. Sip, savour and enjoy happy hour with a selection of speciality dishes and signature sips, at special prices. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For further information email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA Ladies’ Night

Mon and Wed: Calling all ladies! Come to Boston’s every Monday and Wednesday and have a fantastic girls night out! Catch up and have fun as you sip through your four complimentary drinks and enjoy the one of the city’s newest, favourite bars. For inquiries and reservations, please visit www.rotanatimes.com/citycentrerotanadoha/offers, call 4445-8888 or email fb.citycentre@rotana.com

THE GRAND HYATT Hospitality Night

Saturdays: Dunes. Hoteliers and crew members can enjoy unlimited flow of vino, brew and house drinks for QR 199 from 8:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1280.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Words by Charlie Wilcox Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

When he's not playing Magneto in the X-Men films or depicting real-life supersized public figures as he did in Steve Jobs, Michael Fassbender tackles more down to earth characters such as in the romantic drama "The Light Between Oceans." QH caught up with this Irish powerhouse of an actor ahead of the September release date.

ased on the 2012 novel by M.L. Stedman, the drama centres on an Australian lighthouse keeper and his wife (Alicia Vikander). They adopt a young castaway but then discover the consequences years later when they find the child's relatives. The drama is directed by American filmmaker Derek Cianfrance, who also adapted the novel for the screen. The 39-year-old Heidelberg native recently spoke about starring in the post-World War I drama, which was shot on location off the coast of New Zealand.

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ENTERTAINMENT

QH: This is a fantastically complicated, complex character that you're playing here. Could you talk a little bit about who Tom Sherbourne is and what you felt were the challenges of this role? What was it like working with Alicia? MF: I said to Derek (Cianfrance, the director) early on, "This girl frightens me." She's so fierce and brave as a performer. It kind of bowled me over. It was great and really made me feel like I had to come to work in the morning. It was great because we had a great chemistry from the beginning. We really relied on one another and pushed one another and supported one another and that's really the ideal scenario when you're working together. Then we had fun as well. Between takes we would have a laugh, which I always think all of us spend so much time working, might as well have fun while you're doing it, and that should be important.

QH: Which you don't see in the movie. MF: No. There was a comedy element too of me trying to round the goat up, where I got very frustrated, this added to the comedy, of course. It looked a little odd, I suppose. He kept that to blackmail me down the line. It was an absolute honour to get the opportunity to play Tom Sherbourne. I read the script before I read the book. I was just so moved by the story. I just thought, "Wow. Here's such a rare, in a way kind of old-fashioned story, human story about ordinary people trying to navigate life, and there wasn't a clear sort of villain and a good guy. It was just like I say, decent, ordinary people that make some decisions that are very damaging and costly and it just really touched me emotionally and somewhere primal it really got to me and Tom as a character, I really find him to be a hero. For me, he's a hero. He's somebody that I would aspire to be like. QH: Why?

Under Derek's tutelage, we came to work and we really dug around in the weeds every day, trying to find a flower wherever we could. I learned early on that it wasn't going to be an easy day if it was just necessarily not so many pages to shoot because we might have a quarter of a page to shoot and Derek is rolling for hours on it. It's like he kept finding stuff and kept pushing us to find new things and to explore. It was very special. I had to milk a goat, which I did successfully in one take.

MF: Because he lives by his choices. Like with Isabel, he's loyal to the end with her and he almost dies through that loyalty. He's a man of his word. He is somebody that carries his responsibility very seriously, so when we first meet him he decides to go to an island to get away from people. Part of the idea of that for me was that he'd seen so much death and destruction in World War I and he'd been a part of, he'd had his own portion to blame for that,

that he decided that he didn't want to hurt or bring harm to anybody in his life, whatever remained of his life, so therefore he decided to go into isolation. Also, I think he's a very noble character. I thought even through the absolute hardship they've had trying to have children when they discover the child; he knows in his heart of hearts that the best thing to do is notify the authorities. That is again a very impressive decision to make, considering what they've been through as a couple together, and they're trying to have a family, and here's the opportunity to do it. He's just a very straight shooter and what you see is what you get. QH: Given how there were so many emotionally devastating scenes, as a human being how did you shake off your role, emotionally? MF: We were tired, basically. At the end of the day, you'd just crash and we got up pretty early because we were trying to get, a lot of the times, first light, so we had barbeques together, we had movie nights, or night, actually. It turned out to be one night. We had all these great plans of having all these movies. We were on this island and it was hard to get a projector. (Our entertainment was) pretty simple stuff, because we were away from everything. Far removed. QH: Does the scene where Alicia's character shaves your moustache off have any significance?

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MF: I just thought, to me, that it would be more comfortable for her to kiss him without a moustache and it just seemed like one of those things. QH: As you become a couple? MF: Yeah, you make changes to work together as opposed to someone on their own. It was a simple, silly idea but Derek likes simple, silly ideas. He seemed to think it could work and Alicia thought it was a fun idea, too and it just kind of happened from there. QH: Regarding the period details, specifically the background of post-World War I, how do you think that will affect audiences today, looking back on history and what we know about that period and leading up to World War II regarding the characters and how they're recovering from that trauma? MF: The first thing is and we were joking about it before, what drew Isabel to Tom, there weren't many men left in the town of Partageuse, all jokes aside. The town was decimated of its male population and so that was the reality for these small towns. One thing for me that is really important in this story and perhaps is overshadowed by the tragedy that they experience through the loss of the children that they're trying to have, is what happens to friends and this idea of a mob chasing this guy who had nothing to do with the war, and how he gets killed and how we're living in a society today where we're dealing with exactly this problem, migrants and how people get persecuted and how a mob can get out of hand and attack a group of people or for whatever reasons, through their ethnicity or their religious beliefs or whatever else it is, that's a frightening thing. It's a huge part of the story in a way but something that perhaps one wouldn't focus in on. That's something to do with what happens, the remnants of a war, what comes back home after the war and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very important theme. QH: Since you are from Europe and there is this tremendous refugee crisis right now, did that weigh on you in any way in terms of both the hostility and fear of foreigners and also the obligations you might feel to refugees, sacrificing for them versus benefiting from them? MF: I think we're all responsible because we're seeing what's occurred since the Iraq war. This is what happens when you go to war, the displacement of hundreds of thousands, millions of people, because we went in and started a war there, so we're all responsible, absolutely, I feel it. QH: You're doing an alien movie and "The Snowman" about Norwegian detective Harry Hole, is this a conscious thing to move away from art films and to do a big studio film? MF: I've always done (big studio films) from "X-Men." I did the first "X-Men" in 2010 and smaller films alongside, so it's kind of always been the same.

Fassbender has built a strong body of work to become one of Hollywood's leading men

QH: Is your choice based on the role or on the director or on the salary? MF: The main thing is that I choose the director and the script. I boil it down to those two simple things and it keeps things simple for me. The idea to do something commercial, the opportunity came about to me around 2010. There were some very commercial projects coming my way. The idea was, do I want to do that or not, and I did for various reasons. One of the reasons is I like to go see something that's more of a blockbuster, roller coaster ride and then something that's maybe smaller and has a social commentary, and by doing those big ones as well, it allows me to develop my own production company and get smaller films financed, so it gives me more leverage. QH: Do you plan to direct at some point? MF: Hopefully, yeah. I'd like to try that at some point. We'll see. QH: You haven't optioned or got something? MF: I have a few ideas but...

QH: You're developing them? MF: Yeah, my production company, are always developing stuff. I just don't know. There's one that I'd perhaps like to direct, yeah. QH: Can you talk about it at all? MF: No, I'd hate to just until I do it, otherwise it will just be talking and not doing. Fingers crossed. QH: After you make a film like this, does the character stay with you, once you leave the set and you're back home? MF: I guess there's always a bit of a residue, but I've been doing it for a while. I've developed a good way of turning off when I get home. If I'm going to meet friends for dinner that night, they'd be like, "Oh, here he goes again. He keeps obsessing over himself in these characters." I kind of like to wash it free at the end of the day as much as possible, but you're always living with them until the job is done. n

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ENTERTAINMENT Words by Antony D. Antoniou Photography by Jessie Palanca

Wana try something a little different? Then follow QH as we comb our hair put, splash on some aftershave, put on something flashy and head to Latina Balada Night at Toro Toro.

U Shinny, dark and rich with unique decor, let the Latin vibes take over and inspire you

Party Happenings

pon entering Toro Toro, we are greeted by the beautifully dressed staff who whisk us up stairs to where the fun is at. The Balada Latina Night is perfect for those looking for a change of pace. With the sultry South American community of Doha partying right from the off, you will be in for a night of fun. We enter a world of dark, rich interiors that immediately relax the soul and make us happy that we choose Toro Toro this Tuesday evening. There are great views to be had both outside and inside. This place is theatrical, with beautiful people whizzing by and dancing away. I have no idea what the lyrics are saying, but soon I’m on my feet and dancing away. The space itself is big enough and with a kind of small ceiling window feature, which is clad in shinny metallic panels, the eye is naturally drawn upwards to gaze at the stars. In cooler months the terrace is really worth checking out as well. With beverages priced at as little as QR 30, a Tuesday night on the Pearl suddenly became a lot more attractive. Of course for those lucky enough to possess a South American passport, will get one free sip! The good news doesn’t end there, from 7:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. there is a 50% off food items.

The Food We had a couple more beverages and then the food arrived. First, we tried the smoked guacamole & ceviche huachinango, both of which were my personal favourites, especially the latter which had fresh ingredients such as sea bass, leche de tigre, avocado, onion, coriander and sweet potato (out of this world).

South American fare to die for!

As I expected, the cachapa & choclo empanada were super bueno, very moreish and not dry at all. The sauce that accompanied the dish was simply perfect and had me ordering a second helping. We also tried the chicken anticucho which was great and as always for those looking for mocktails, there are some truly great options. Latina Balada Night at Toro Toro has everything you need to have a great Tuesday night, out and all, at affordable prices. Dress to impress and head to a Latin night you won’t want to end. n LATINA BALADA NIGHT AT TORO TORO Location: Marsa Malaz Kempinski Timings: Every Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. door policies apply. +21 For bookings please call 4035-5101

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE

NAME: RICARDO GALLARDO STORE SECTION: MULTIMEDIA TIME AT VIRGIN: 1½ YEARS

Best Part Of My Job:“Every few weeks we receive training on new products and some of them are really cool, so that is pretty interesting. I also like interacting with the customers and helping them get the right product.” 4-IN-1 OLLOCLIP PHOTO LENS Take pictures worth a 1,000 likes with the perfect social media accessory. The award-winning 4-in-1 Lens for iPhone 6/6s & iPhone 6/6s. Plus, it delivers the most versatile and premium mobile lens experience in a compact, easy-to-use design. It features four advanced optic quickchange lenses (Fisheye, Wide-Angle, Macro 10x & 15x) that weigh in at less than an ounce. The pocketsized, award-winning design now works on both front and rear-facing cameras; so you can let your photos and selfies run wild. Retail Price: QR 349

HOMIDO VIRTUAL REALITY HEADSET FOR SMARTPHONES Watch and enjoy 360 degree spherical videos, and immerse yourself into the virtual gaming world with this virtual headset. It’s compatible with the most recent android and iOS smartphones, custom-made VR lenses (100° FOV), interchangeable face contact foam and wireless feature. Retail Price: QR 299

SONY PLAYSTATION 4 1TB ULTIMATE PLAYER EDITION Experience unrivalled graphics performance, the biggest blockbusters and the best exclusive games and additional content – all on the world’s most powerful console. PlayStation 4 is for players who want to set out on incredible journeys through immersive new worlds and be part of a deeply connected gaming community. Now you can download twice as much thanks to 1TB of built-in storage. Retail Price: QR 1599 / QR 1699

JBL CHARGE 2+ PORTABLE BLUETOOTH SPEAKER The new JBL Charge 2, is a portable stereo speaker offering best-inclass sound with dual drivers and twin passive radiators that deliver deep, accurate bass so powerful that you can actually see them trembling- even as their sound hits your ears. What puts the JBL Charge 2 far head of the competition are its outstanding Bluetooth capabilities. Retail Price: QR 699

DJI OSMO HANDHELD 4K CAMERA Motion without a blur and action shots without the shakiness. Perfect video even when you move. Thanks to advanced technologies specifically designed to keep the camera flat no matter how you move it, the DJI Osmo helps you record videos and take photos like never before. It is much more than just a camera. It helps you create with more freedom than ever. Retail Price: QR 2599

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Spotlight On Movies September sees romance and bio-pics as well as some intense dramas. We also have some animation too!

THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS

THE WILD LIFE

Drama, Romance A lighthouse keeper and his wife living off the coast of Western Australia raise a baby they rescue from an adrift rowboat. Stars: Alicia Vikander, Michael Fassbender, Rachel Weisz, Bryan Brown QH Fun Fact: After meeting on the set of this film in September 2014, Alicia Vikander and Michael Fassbender announced they were dating in December 2014.

Animation, Adventure, Comedy On a tiny exotic island, Tuesday, an outgoing parrot lives with his quirky animal friends in paradise. However, Tuesday can't stop dreaming about discovering the world.

Action, Drama, Thriller A story set on the offshore drilling rig Deepwater Horizon, which exploded during April 2010 and created the worst oil spill in U.S. history.

Stars: Matthias SchweighĂśfer, Kaya Yanar, Ilka Bessin, Dieter Hallervorden.

Stars: Dylan O'Brien, Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, Kate Hudson.

QH Fun Fact: The last Robinson Crusoe adaptation starred Pierce Brosnan, probably best known for Remington Steel (TV) and James Bond movies.

QH Fun Fact: In Kate Hudson's Instagram she published a photo with her step-father Kurt Russell. She mentioned this movie will be the first movie working with him.

Biography, Drama The story of Chesley Sullenberger, who became a hero after gliding his plane along the water in the Hudson River, saving all of the airplane flights 155 crew and passengers. Stars: Tom Hanks, Anna Gunn, Laura Linney, Aaron Eckhart.

SULLY

DEEPWATER HORIZON

QH Fun Fact: Filmed almost entirely with IMAX cameras.

Comedy, Romance The continuing adventures of British publishing executive Bridget Jones as she enters her 40s. Stars: RenĂŠe Zellweger, Patrick Dempsey, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson. QH Fun Fact: Scenes set at the British summer music festival at Glastonbury were filmed during winter time in England.

BRIDGET JONES'S BABY

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ENTERTAINMENT

Listings All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

QH RECOMMENDS

W DOHA Crystal Lounge and Club Arabesque Night

Saturdays: Crystal Proudly presents Arabesque Night, Layali 1001 Nights with stars Fadi & Maestro Jamil performing all the latest Arabic songs, LIVE! DJ Imran will spin all the latest top hits of RnB, Hip – Hop & Commercial tunes. From 10.00 p.m. onwards.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS DOHA MARRIOTT Pearl Lounge

DOHA MARRIOTT Street Food Doha Poké Hunt

September 1: Don’t miss this special edition of Street Food Doha for a chance to go on a ‘Poké hunt’ to find your favourite Pokémon character throughout the Street Food buffet! Catch as many as you can for a chance to win amazing prizes! Gotta catch ‘em all! From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Price: Regular Street Food QR 240, or Full Package Street Food QR 335. Call 4429-8499 for reservations.

Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.

RADISSON BLU Pub Quiz

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS

Monday 26 September: Shehrazad. Let our Quiz Master Andrew take you through his Pub Quiz challenge. Bring along your team of six players to test your knowledge against the best of Doha. Fantastic prizes for winners! Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Quiz starts at 8:00 p.m. Free entrance. Over 21’s. Qatari ID required. For reservations please call 4428-1555.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Día De La Independencia

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Aperitivo

Fri 16 September: This is a special Friday brunch as we all celebrate 206 years of Mexican independence with special traditional Latin-American dishes. From QR 206 including soft beverages and QR 306 with unlimited flavours.

MOVENPICK DOHA Beauty & Bubbles

Tuesdays: Jazz Up Bar. It’s midweek and the weekend just seems too far away. Grab your girls, ditch the heels and get ready to blow off some Tuesday steam! With a free bubbly concoction on arrival and 25% off the tempting mixology menu, Jazz Up is undoubtedly the perfect cosy setting for a fat chat with your crew. From 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit us at www.movenpick.com/hotel-doha.

Wed & Thurs: La Veranda. September 15 onwards. While appreciating the unrivalled views of the corniche, delicious appetizers will be served with a free flow of unique beverages. Our live music will serenade your senses and help you unwind from a hard day at work. Price only QR 130 per person all you can drink. From 5:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m.

FOUR SEASONS Four From 4

Sun-Thurs: Elements. Whether it’s a weekday, after work or to end your weekends, Elements is the new best location for Happy Hour in town, featuring signature beverages inspired by the four ancient elements of Fire, Air, Water and Earth. Try our great value tapas from our snack menu and sip a special choice while the sun sets over the bay. From 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8600, or email us at dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Daily: Enjoy a stylish evening at the Pearl Lounge night club. With beautiful pearlescent highlights, elegant and quirky wall art, find yourself immersed in a classic a la mode setting. Mix and mingle under the beautiful red decor, chic bar and hot tunes! “Pearls don’t lie on the sea shore, if you want one you must dive for it.” – Chinese Proverb. Join the daily Happy Hour from 5.00 p.m. till 8.00 p.m. and enjoy selected beverages for only QR 27.

HILTON Happy Hour at Zawaya

Daily: Enjoy the summer season with our famous happy hour. Try something different with one of our special beverages and refresh yourself during the hot weather. Selected beverages only QR 25. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4423-3112 or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA SUBculture Mondays

Mondays: Lava. Lava introduce a new weekly Monday night party geared towards bass music lovers in Doha. Local artists play the best Future Bass, Hip-Hop, Trap, Funk and more. Ladies get two Lava special sips. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Big Girls Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma. Girls Night out is back! Every Wednesday bring your girlfriends along and enjoy our special mixed beverages every Wednesday from 10:00 p.m. till late. But a party is not a party without our mystery piñata! All the girls stand a chance to bring home exciting prizes with our lady’s night out. Entrance for only QR 80 for single men, including one house beverage. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Social Sundays

Sundays: Social Sundays offers Soul Shake- Rock Star Live karaoke with our resident band. Social Sunday’s is still a relatively new concept - at its most basic it could be described as karaoke with a live backing band. But it’s so much more than simply singing a song with a rock and pop band! The guys will make you feel like a rock star with their specialist PA, lighting, ridiculous conversation and dubious fashion sense. For more information, call 4484-4444.

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ENTERTAINMENT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Hedkandi

September 15: Strata. Hedkandi is back by popular demand! Head to Strata with us and join the after Eid party! Warm up: Diego Rodriguez. DJ Carl Hanaghan and Kami C. QR 100 inclusive of one drink. Free entrance before 11pm. Mixed groups and couples only. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

Escape The Summer Heat!

Sun-Thurs: Hive. Stay happy and cool off from the summer heat with an extended happy hour offer buy one, get one free - on selected house beverages between 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. After work evenings done better!

Moombahton

Thursdays: Strata. Moombahton has arrived in Doha! Originating in Washington DC from remixed Dutch House, Moombahton is a fusion genre of house music, dance hall, reggaeton, dub, hip-hop and electro that perfectly combines thick spread out bass lines, dramatic builds, two-step pulse, quick drum fills, ravey synths and the occasional rap samples. QR 75 with an inclusive beverage. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Free entrance before 12:00 a.m. for Ladies. Mixed groups and couples only.

Disc-Cover Nights

Fridays: Strata. Disc-cover the blue room every Friday night as we party the night away with the best views in town.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Happy Hour

Daily: The Lounge. The Lounge reveals their refreshed classic Happy Hour and extends it from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.! Enjoy your favourite selected beverages and nibbles for only QR 30. For more information, call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Hoteliers & Airline Flight Crew Night Saturdays: All hoteliers and airline flight crew can enjoy a complimentary 50% on selected beverages from the special menu, when presenting their company ID card or Business card. From 8:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. For more information, call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Sparkling Fridays At The Lounge Fridays: The Lounge welcomes all ladies with two complimentary glasses of bubbly. Fridays at The Lounge are bright and sparkly! From 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Noche Feliz!

Daily: Buenas tardes amigos! Liven up your evenings with El Faro’s Noche Feliz promotion with 30% off beverages daily between 11:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. On Thursdays and Fridays enjoy the creations of Head Chef David whilst he prepares scrumptious dishes at his tapas bar. Prices are a la carte. For more information, call 4035-5011 or email us at restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Listings Vitamine Café

Daily: Indulge in a healthy lifestyle at our Vitamine Café. Vitamine Café is the healthy haven in the heart of the Spa by Clarins at Marsa Malaz Kempinski. Taste an innovative menu of fresh creations or simply relax with a mocktail, smoothie or juice at this tranquil café. Daily from 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email us at restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Balada Latina

Tuesdays: Toro Toro. Pure Latin beats in our lounge & terrace from 7:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Special discounted menu with prices starting at QR 35 the whole night! Latin American ID holders get one free beverage upon arrival! No membership needed. For more information, contact 4035-5011, or find us at www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Wallstreet Miercoles

Wednesdays: Toro Toro. Wallstreet Miercoles. Suit up and check out our specials board, as drinks will be discounted every half an hour from 7:30 p.m. till 12:30 p.m.! Every Wednesday at Toro Toro. No membership needed. For more information, call 4035-5011, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

ORYX ROTANA Scarlet Tuesdays

Tuesdays: Calling all ladies for a revolution! Be part of the ladies’ night at the Jazz Club and enjoy four complimentary sips, tantalizing snacks from 5:00 p.m. until midnight. After that, enjoy a 50% discount on selected mixed beverages. Enjoy the night with our Jazz Band from 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m.

RADISSON BLU Manic Monday

Mondays: Qube. Come and join in a fun Monday night out at Qube! 30% discount on beverages and entertainment from our excellent resident Djs and band! Offer is not valid on the evenings before and of public holidays. From 7:00 p.m. Onwards. Free entry. Over 21s only. Qatari ID required. For more information, call 4428-1555

Happy Hours

Aquarius Poolside Bar

September: Aquarius. Enjoy a refreshing day at the outdoor pool with its amazing Day Pass offer! Pay QR 100 from Sunday to Thursday or QR 150 on Friday and Saturday and redeem the entire amount on food and beverages.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Shanghai Club – Lounge & Bar

Daily: This is the new high end bar and lounge in Doha. A great selection of artistically-inspired mixed drinks, large selection of exclusive sparkling beverages and international DJ’s, Shanghai Club sets a new trend in Doha for the hip crowd. Open for dinner from 7:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Lounge bar & Balcony open from 5:30 p.m. until late. DJ & entertainment from 9:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays. For more information, call 4429-5295 or email doha.dining@shangri-la.com.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Daily Happy Hour

Daily: Irish Harp. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Come to the ground floor of the Sheraton Hotel to enjoy a special price on a range of selected beverages. For reservations call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.irishharpdoha.com

80’s & 90’s Party

Saturdays: Irish Harp. A blast from the past with free entrance for all! Dance to old school grooves from 8:00 p.m. onwards. One complimentary beverage for ladies. For information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.irishharpdoha.com

Open Mic & Office Night

Sundays: Irish Harp. Guests can perform onstage to their own jams from 8:00 p.m. onwards. 30% discount for teachers, hoteliers and cabin crew. For reservations call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit the website www.irishharpdoha.com

Fri- Wed: Orion. Come and join us for a lively and upbeat evening of entertainment! We now offer 35% off on all regular branded beverages, and a heady blend of music and creative colourful refreshments. Be impressed by entertainment from the “Aquarius Band” performing daily except Saturdays. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Free entry. Over 21’s only. Qatari ID required.

THE GRAND HYATT Dunes Hospitality Night

ROTANA CITY CENTRE Ladies Night

September 13 & 27: The Grill. Paint your own canvas! Unwind and create a masterpiece! Set your creativity loose from 6:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m., for a simple fun-filled step-by-step painting event which includes finger food and one hour of unlimited selected beverages. Prices only QR 250 per person. Please call 4448-1234 for bookings and enquires.

Mon & Wed: Boston’s. Calling all ladies! Come on down to Boston’s and have a fantastic girl’s night out! Catch up and have fun as you sip through your four complimentary drinks and enjoy one of the city’s newest favourite bars. For inquiries visit www.rotanatimes.com/citycentrerotanadoha/offers, or call 4445-8888.

Saturdays: Hoteliers and crew members can enjoy unlimited flow of a range of delicious beverages for QR 199 from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1280.

Paint The Town

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THE ST REGIS DOHA Doha Bus

Daily: Doha Bus is Qatar’s first Hop-on Hop-off sight-seeing bus tour, providing both local residents and visiting tourists a flexible way to discover the country’s vibrant past, present and future. Each Doha Bus tour highlights a variety of interesting locations throughout this fast changing landscape including Souq Waqif, The Pearl, Villaggio as well as The Museum of Islamic Art. Doha Bus enhances the sight-seeing experience with seven different language options to choose from as well as group discounts, private coach tours and corporate outings. Doha Bus is a fun, interactive and highly educational experience for every traveller. From 9:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. every day. Call 4442-2444 for more details.

The Last Drop

Mondays: Vintage. Take advantage of fantastic offers every Monday! There’s 50% off selected beverages on the menu from 10:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, call 4446-0105, or email us at diningreservations@stregis.com.

FOUR SEASONS Happy Hour

Daily: Whether it’s a weekday after work or to end your weekends, enjoy our Happy Hour offerings at all outlets at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, starting with Arabica at 3:00 p.m. all the way to 8:00 p.m. at Il Teatro and of course Nobu. Hours and offers change with each venue. For more information, call 4494-8600 or email us at dining.doh@fourseasons.com

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Krush

Fridays: The new trendy hang out for teenagers in our Garden Villa with live DJ, snacks, slush and sweet treats! Starting September 16 from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Ages from 13-18 years old, must bring ID. Tickets from QR 70.

Sisters Of Swing

Tuesdays: Head to the Mix Bar, Lounge and Terrace for a night of soul, R&B and Hip Hop. Ladies receive two complimentary drinks. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

W DOHA Y.O.L.O (You only live once)

Sundays: Crystal Lounge and Club. Head down for a night of all old school tunes with Resident DJ Tobias Sabido. Enjoy the recently launched drinks menu with special prices. From 10:00 p.m. onwards. For enquiries or reservations, please contact 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Exclusive Urban Night with DJ Kaboo

September 6: Coming all the way from the hottest parties of Dubai, the talented DJ Kaboo is mixing it up with a special twist. Opening set by new Resident DJ Tobias Sabido. From 10:00 p.m. onwards. Strictly reservations & guest list only. For info, call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Z Lounge by Zengo Kempinski Residences & Suites

Directory

MIX Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Illusion Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Let us help you make the most of your weekend with our comprehensive directory of the hottest nightlife spots throughout the city. So grab your friends and head out for a night on the town! Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha

4446-0000

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Beach Bar Lounge Four Seasons

4494-8888

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha

4429-1111

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5555

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shanghai Club Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

Boston's City Center Rotana

4445-8888

Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Crystal Lounge W Doha

Dunes The Grand Hyatt Glo Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4419-6100

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4484-8000

4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Grand Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

4428-1428

4408-7777

MIX Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4492-1555

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

Illusion Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5757

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Z Lounge by Zengo Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3333

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ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

KATARA Summer Collection – Part 2

August 2 – September 16: Al-Markhiya Gallery will hold an exhibition entitled: "Summer Collection - Part 2", at Katara Art Center in Building 5, Cultural Village Foundation – Katara. The exhibition features a number of paintings of contemporary fine artists from Qatar and abroad aiming to provide an opportunity for fine art fans to look various distinctive art works.

PAINT THE TOWN QATAR Starry Night Dreams

September 27: Grand Hyatt Doha, The Grill. Flex your creative muscles with a special night of painting, food and beverages. Who knows, you may just create your first masterpiece! There might even be a surprise final product for attendees. Tickets for QR 250. From 19:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Visit www.eventbrite.com to book your ticket and make sure you don’t miss out.

VCUQATAR GALLERY ISSUE ISME

September 7 – October 22: Indonesian graffiti artists Vendy Methodos and IsmuIsmoyo will showcase artistry through graffiti portraying social and political issues that are compounded by the public through social media. The exhibit will be curated by Melanie McClintock, who aims to inspire innovation in traditional arts through graffiti. In this exhibition, the artists will reflect a mirror-like vision of some darker truths, or miss-truths that exists within us all; featuring a series of works by each artists in several mediums, combining fine art, stencil, and traditional batik techniques.

DOHA RUGBY CLUB, AL WAAB Dance Doha MATHAF PROJECT SPACE Red/Red

Until September 11: Turkish artist AslıÇavusoglu will display her installation Red / Red at the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Project Space. Curated by Laura Barlow, the installation comprises 17 pieces, including handmade notebooks of drawings and paintings made with red pigments from Armenia and Turkey. Çavusoglu will deliver a related public talk on 22 May, during which she will discuss the disappearance of Armenian red as a material, and also how she views her work as a proposal for a model of co-existence for the inhabitants of the region to protect and develop the natural ecosystem that produces the pigment.

September 7: This is a new weekly dance classes for adults and children at Doha Rugby Club styles which includes ballroom Latin lessons from renowned instructor and head coach for Team GB at the World Dance Sport Country Games Yvonne Dunn. Dancers displaying extraordinary talent may be offered the opportunity to compete internationally. For details contact 3080-9098 or email ydunn14@gmail.com.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Words by Jareh Das Images courtesy of The Berlin Biennale

Qatar has become recognised as a major destination for art with the country acquiring countless works in recent years. With such a conscious swing towards the arts, QH was inspired to take a look at this year’s Berlin Biennale for Contemporary Art as we sent contributor Jareh Das to take a look.

or the 9th edition of the Berlin Biennale for Contemporary Art (bb9), New-York based collective DIS (Lauren Boyle, Solomon Chase, Marco Rosso, and David Torro) introduced the theme, ‘The Present in Drag’, at five differential sites across the city. The Akademie Der Künste, The European School of Management and Technology (ESMT), The Feuerle Collection, KW Institute for Contemporary Art and the Blue-Star sightseeing boat of Reederei Riedel presented works by several generations, races and genders, all of whom meditated on our content laden present, which they consider as a mutable space of blurred boundaries between public-private spaces that merge with capitalistic interests.

of cultural trends which has meant that the commodification of art more and more resembles corporate consumption. The impetus here is to tackle this malaise head on, both literally and through humour, which at times, comes across as flippant and carefree.

Everywhere we look there is information overload, but more worryingly there is also commercialization

Ewaipanoma (Rihanna), 2016, by Juan SebastiánPeláez solidifies this attitude of a carefree

GCC’s Positive Pathways (+)

generation with a larger-than-life sculpture of the headless superstar in a bikini who greets you in the courtyard of the KW Institute for Contemporary Art. The first floor is dedicated to immersive installation environments with Amalia Ulman’s lacklustre and rather strange installation PRIVILEGE, 2016, furthering her inquiries into fabricated personas which she created originally back in 2015

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The exhibition ends by walking up a dimly lit staircase to encounter a single red and white no-entry sign, Howdy #6 [Second Series], 2015,by Adrian Piper as if to check if one was okay after encountering and exposing oneself to the staggering amount of information I had just witnessed.

Hands,Fürmich

Both the ESMT and The Feuerle Collection consisted of more concise presentations of singularartists’ work. At ESMT, Simon Denny and Linda Kantchev’s Block Chain Visionaries, 2016, explores the decentralised transaction based technology used by BitCoin, whilst in the adjoining room, GCC’s Positive Pathways (+), 2016, explores the positive movements and paradoxes of the Gulf states as exemplified in Dubai’s recent preoccupation with promoting ‘Happiness’ in the emirates. The installation consists of a white sculpture of a woman leaning towards a young boy, whilst the sound accompanying the

on Instagram. This was quickly redeemed by encountering Cecile B. Evans’s What the Heart Wants, 2016, which is a stunning video installation viewed sitting on a floating platform of water. In this ambitious projected video work, Evans dismantles the human body, merging its parts with digital entities. Going through stairways with large scale wallpaper styled images and a toilet transformed into a screening room, it was refreshing to encounter stillness in the collage photographs of Louisa Stahl, SchwarzePumpe 1 and SchwarzePumpe 2, 2016 - which comments on and incorporates images of coal extraction and its machinery piece, red with orifices connecting tube systems to the work and allowing viewers to engage with a view of the outside environment of the KW. On the other hand, with Office Of Unreplied Emails, created by Camille Hernot in collaboration with Jacob Bromberg, is a large-scale emotive response to unanswered emails rendered in paintings and exaggerated calligraphy.

Cecile B. Evans’s What the Heart Wants

piece is of her performing Quantum Touch, a form of energy healing on him whilst surrounded by running tracks reminiscent of calligraphy encroached by sand, a familiar sight in the Gulf region. The Feuerle collection was animated with Josephine Pryde’s 2014 piece, The New Media Express, which consists of a mini DB Schenker train that visitors could sit on and ride for a short distance in parallel to her photographs, Hands, Fürmich, 2014–16, close-up shots focused on hands as points of contact. Finally, ending with the Akademie der Kunste, content here, fluctuates between the realms of the real and virtual worlds colliding together, with an overarching intention to critique the systems that have allowed for this lack of critical separation. LIT takes over most of the entrance hallway consisting of a myriad of images by various artists including Johannes Paul Raether, Roe Etheridge, Zanele Muholi, Akeem Smith and TorbjørnRødland,

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ARTS & CULTURE serving as an interface of large-scale light boxes by an array of artists. Hito Steyerl’s Extra Spacecraft, 2016, offers a contemplative environment set on a hill in northern Iraq but refashioned as a space agency evoking the virtual dimension superimposed onto the realities of state-controlled territories that render anti-terrorist control. Another escape from the cacophony of the corridors was the Jonathan Rafman’s View of Pariser Platz, 2016, a brilliant three-minute Oculus Rift experience which recreated views on the balcony that then were brought to life with the hybridized sculptures on display to terrifying effect. All of these bb9 sites were chosen by the curators to highlight both the geopolitical and socio-historical specificity connecting both the past and present histories of Berlin, and thus served to provide a context that engages with a politics of place to remind viewers that Berlin today (like most cities) presents a new challenge as it negates the often ‘unseen contemporary visual codes of the state, the market, corporate and national powers’.

Conclusion How then does a biennale negotiate these murky waters where there is no separation between what is private-public, market-state, individual-national, through a model which has contributed to the biennialisation of the contemporary art world? Well, for starters DIS’s intentions seemed directed in turning the notion of biennale as ‘cultural tourism’, on its head by presenting a fast, vast, expansive and a cacophonic display of art which felt like it was embracing a specific kind of internationalism, touching upon contexts of post-colonialism and multiculturalism. There was way too much ‘content’ which largely focused on displays that seemed to try and evoke a chuckle from the viewer instead of offering a serious critique on the distribution of wealth, power, conflict and the numerous political and environmental issues that symbolize the present predicament of humankind. Having said this, spending several days unpacking the biennale’s immensely overwhelming full-of-stuff approach, did eventually reveal individual projects that shone above, the at times,incoherent curating. bb9 presented some memorable individual works particularly those by Johnathan Rafman, Cécile B. Evans and GCC. The biennial would have benefited from a rigorous edit and less of an all-consuming approach to present what felt like every artist of the postinternet generation on display. n

THE 9TH BERLIN BIENNALE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART Location: Berlin, Germany Dates of Event: June 4 - September 18, 2016 Website: bb9.berlinbiennale.de

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ARTS & CULTURE

Tribal Colours Words by Lynsey Riach, images courtesy of Kulay

Meet Kharelly Sakilan, founder of Kulay - a clothing and accessory business here in Doha that works closely with local tribes of Kharelly’s home country, the Philippines.

oming from a long line of dressmakers, Kharelly has followed in her family’s footsteps to carve out a career in fashion. However this busy lady originally studied both Architecture and Interior Design. Calling Qatar home for the past 7 years, I visited the Kulay store to find out more. QH: Tell me all about Kulay, how did this enterprise come about? KS: Kulay Trading is a Filipino company that aims to promote Philippine culture and artistry to the global fashion industry. Kulay taps into our age-old tradition of crafting indigenous Filipino products

such as hand-woven fabrics and native handicrafts. These ethnic products are then given a new twist by infusing modernism to produce a fresher design that can be marketed internationally. By combining different elements and materials, Kulay aims to reach the youth fashion market whilst supporting the preservation and practices of our tribal communities back home in the Philippines.

our past. By reaching out to our tribal communities and tapping their natural skills and craftsmanship, we help them become self-sufficient and sustain their livelihood, conserve our culture, and save our communities.

KS: Yes, “Kulay” means “colour” in the Filipino language and depicts the Philippines’ vibrant heritage through a playful selection of rich colors and textures. Be it, clothing, bags, footwear, and other fashion apparel – the raw materials – from weaves to beads, are sourced from different parts of the Philippine archipelago and produced by skillful Filipinos.

The focus is to use hand-woven fabrics and indigenous products from our local tribal communities in the design and development of our fashion collection. Traditionally, our hand-woven fabrics are only used in manufacturing native or cultural clothing. As the use has become too limited and specialized, the marketability of these products has begun to decline. Because of this, most of our tribal folks started to look elsewhere for their livelihood, often venturing into the cities and ending up on the streets. Kulay is trying to bring them back to the loom and create a sustainable and fulfilling livelihood for them, making them proud of their heritage and culture.

QH: Social responsibility is something quite important to you, right?

QH: Tell me where your passion for this idea came from?

KS: Kulay’s aim is simple – we look to go back to our roots and enrich our culture by preserving the gifts of

KS: I love fashion, arts and design. I appreciate the uniqueness of the patterns and colours as made

QH: The name Kulay holds some significance to both your industry and culture, correct?

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by Philippine tribes. So I felt that I could combine good business sense and support and promote our indigenous people. Colours galore

QH: The designs are vibrant! Where do you find these ideas?

Unique items you wont find anywhere else

KS: From different parts of the Philippines where the indigenous people live and are isolated from the city. Materials are made of cotton, abaca fibre, pineapple fibre, pandan leaves; palm stalks and mostly Philippine plants. QH: Can customers have bespoke items made for them? KS: I offer both ready to wear items and customised designs. All production is in the Philippines so anything bespoke will take some time but I love to design and create so I always welcome such orders. QH: You also have a website selling your products, correct? KS: Yes, I offer items locally in my shop, which has proven to be very busy, a great success with tremendous support from the Filipino community but our business is also now spreading to other nationalities. My website offers international delivery so many customers can now enjoy shopping from home too. QH: What are your goals for the future of Kulay? KS: To become internationally recognised and continue to improve the workflow to the tribes by offering more demand for items and more variety of designs n For more on Kulay and to shop online please visit www.kulay.com.ph

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ARTS & CULTURE

Paint, Promote, Preserve Words by Rabi’ah. M, Images courtesy of Bouthayna Al Muftah

Bouthayna Al-Muftah has rapidly become one of Qatar’s rising contemporary artists. Her works illustrates the rich culture of Qatar and the preservation of heritage. QH Contributor Rabi’ah. M talks to this promising artist about her work, her inspiration and love for tradition.”

here is a sense of vigour in the way Bouthayna Al Muftah talks about her passion for art. A Qatari national born in Tunisia, Bouthayna completed her high school education in Doha but

went on to study her art degree in Graphic Design from the Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar which exposed her to a multicultural environment. In fact, she has dedicated herself to artwork and art research on a full-time basis as she explains, "I am currently committing myself as a full-time artist, working from my own studio at home." She explains that she has crafted here own distinct style which she says is influenced by thinking ‘outside of the box’. She explains, “It took me some time to accept this about myself and to be comfortable with who I am. As I grow, my art evolves and grows with me.” Her journey goes back to her school days when she experimented in arts and crafts, mastering new techniques and learning how to take it to the next level, in her own way. She points out, "I always felt great comfort in an art class, there was no right or

wrong, it allowed me to be myself, searching a path to better explore my own identity." Bouthayna’s first exhibition was titled, The Here There, which took place in the Riwaq Gallery in Doha (2014/2015) and featured a group of Brazilian and Qatari artists. "I honestly did not expect people to end up relating to my artwork; in fact, the majority of the reaction was positive with the younger generation finding it particularly appealing." The community support in Qatar has been immense; this has mainly been expressed through the medium of social media. “Social media has given me a great

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Idiosyncratic in nature with a unique voice

Preserving Qatari Culture in an engaging way

deal of exposure and a way to express my artwork freely without any added pressures.” She explains.

She aims to preserve Qatari folklore and tradition via her unique abstract form. Bouthayna elucidates that tradition is fundamental to her subject matter and artistic expression through various mediums. "The drive for this preservation is far ranging and wide for me, my upbringing, our national dress, and our way of life as well as Doha itself."

One of the reasons which attracted her towards art was her older sister who shared a similar passion; she truly influenced her thinking. Furthermore, she credits her primary, secondary and university education which led her down a creative path.

When asked what her favourite genre of art is and who inspired her, Bouthayna responds by saying, “I don’t really have a favourite genre but I am inspired by the Cubists, the Abstract movement and Expressionism. Artists such as Jackson Pollock, Joan Mitchell, Cy Twombly, Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko, Franz Kline and so on, the list is very big.”

For an artist like Bouthayna it is her surroundings that are her main inspirations, "...my land, my roots also my cultural heritage" which she talks about greatly in her work by creating it in a highly contemporary way.

Within the Middle East, Bouthayna lists Mubarak Al-Malik, Salman Al-Malik, Faraj Dham, Khalid Al Baih, Manar Al Muftah, Abouelnaga, Yusuf Al-Ahmad, Anas Homsi, Ahmed Anan, Ghada Al Kandari, and Mustafa Rahma as artists she admires.

One must commend the way Bouthayna tackles criticism which she believes has only resulted in her producing better work; she accepts criticism as a way to create more fruitful works. Despite not having bagged any awards yet, she has participated in prominent exhibitions such as the one at the Skoufa Gallery in Mykonos, Greece last summer, followed by several projects with corporate organisations in Qatar where she has designed bespoke pieces of work. The trend of emerging female artists in Qatar is increasing now, in fact, there is a strong presence within the country. Bouthayna points out that the support and platform being developed in the GCC for arts and culture undoubtedly will pave the way for numerous future female artists. For more information on the work of Bouthayna Al Muftah visit www.emergeast.com/bouthayna-al-muftah. n

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a unique experience hosted by up and coming art scene starlet Crina Apetrei and allows those attending to unleash their inner Picasso. The format is free painting to a specially crafted soundtrack chosen specifically to unlock emotions and new ideas. The scene is set with paints, brushes and canvases all of which are supplied by the organisers. The evening starts with a short introductory talk and short demonstration before the attendees are set loose to create their own masterpieces. Over the next two hours, you will embark on frenetic and feverish painting. By the end of the evening, you may be proud of what you have created and of course, you can take it home to display it.

Your Inner Picasso As told to Antony D. Antoniou Photography by Ayaz Ahmad

Want to release your creative energy or just try something new? The new Paint With Feeling at Nozomi, Marsa Malaz Kempinski classes, is the perfect opportunity. QH explores.

The Artist Romanian-born Crina was a prodigy whose talent was picked up by the director of Constanta Institute of Art, Victor Radulescu who supported and cultivated her development. Maria Cerbat became her mentor giving her the opportunity to hold her first solo exhibition at the age 14 at Cultural House of Constanta entitled "The Symphony of Colours", this first exhibition was hailed as a resounding success and the Constanta Telegraph described her work as "a passion rarely found in a person so young, she works with shocking diversity of expression and concepts of modern art". At 15 years old, her second exhibition entitled" CrinaApetrei Art" using shoe cream on canvas as her medium before taking her talent to the UK and Western Europe where she has been based for the past nine years. She is active in a wide variety of media creating masterpieces on furniture, glass, canvas and murals whilst also running her own successful design company. This promises to become a regular event on the Doha social scene and the next Paint With Felling session is scheduled for sometime in September. Be sure to check their Facebook account for exact dates and times. n PAINT WITH FEELING Location: Nozomi, Marsa Malaz Kempinski Contact: Facebook - Paint with Feeling -Doha

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ARTS & CULTURE

Listings

Museum Guide

For a complete list of timings visit www.qma.org.qa/en/exhibitions

QH RECOMMENDS

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Education City 4402-8855 mathaf_info@qma.org.qa www.mathaf.org.qa Open: Tuesday to Sunday Closed: Mondays

Museum of Islamic Art & Park The Corniche 4422-4444 infomia@qma.org.qa www.mia.org.qa Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

The Fire Station & Garage Gallery MATHAF 4th Annual Student Art Exhibition Launch

September – December 2016: The Mathaf Student Art Exhibition is an annual programme that celebrates the creativity of students from kindergarten to secondary levels and encourages students, teachers and parents to explore modern and contemporary art together. To register now, please email us at mathaf_education@qm.org.qa

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL DOHA Future Interiors Qatar Conference

September 5-6: Organized by the Advanced Conferences & Meetings FZ-LLC, The Future Interiors Qatar Conference will cover areas like latest trends and developments in balancing design, sustainability and innovation in interiors.

ASPIRE PARK Water Sport Show

September 11: A remarkable way to spend the Eid holidays! Check out the spectacular water sport shows which will be performed during the Eid holiday at Aspire Park, and will include fly board, Jet Ski and water boarding shows.

MATHAF, ARAB MUSEUM OF MODERN ART Mathaf Curatorial Summer Camp 2016 September 4-9: The second yearly Curatorial Summer Camp takes places over one week this September focussed on the topic of archives and institution building. This is part of Mathaf’s ongoing curatorial and research project, Doha Art map, a collaborative exploration of the spaces of art and creativity in Doha. The program interrogates curatorial thinking and practices to introduce ideas and debates on art discourse and the practical application of curating. Participation is open to local and regional creative professionals, students, and scholars interested in developing a contemporary critical discourse on practices in art and curating.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Imperial Threads: Motifs & artisans from Turkey, Iran and India On-going until November 4, 2017: This exhibition will focus on the exchange of artistic and material cultures between the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal Empires. Highlighting MIA's masterpiece carpets, among other artworks, from Turkey, Iran and India, these objects will be contextualized within the historical circumstances of politics and artistic production of their time, primarily from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

IAID Indian Classical Dance

Sat-Thurs: The course tackles the dance styles of Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam, with certificates awarded to graduates. The IAID Indian Dance program is a seven-year certificate course affiliated to the Nalanda Dance Research Centre Mumbai, India. For more information call 4432-0974/ 4441-1234, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

Old Civil Defense Roundabout contact@firestation.org.qa www.firestation.org.qa. Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

Gallery Al Riwaq

Museum of Islamic Art Park 4452-5555 Open: Same days as Museum of Islamic Art

QMA Gallery

Building 10, Katara, Cultural VIllage 4408-1255 qmagallery@qma.org.qa Open: Monday to Saturday & Sunday Closed: Fridays

Classical Ballet

Monday-Saturday. IAID’s Classical Ballet is a dance that is generally associated with graceful and elegant movements. Ballet was developed in Italy, and was formed from a type of ballroom dancing. In ballet, turn out, points, ankles, knees, posture are all important and ballerinas spend years perfecting them. IAID classical ballet is a graded course affiliated with British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA). It is designed for children and adults.For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

e! s onlig.cnom See urha nin ppe www.qata

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COMMUNITY

Top Picks

DOHA MUMS New Arrivals Coffee

500PX Red Bull Photography Global Photo Walk

Tuesdays: Starbucks, Landmark Mall. Are you new to Qatar, or do you know someone is who is? This friendly group is welcoming newcomers with a chat and a cup of coffee. You can also bring you children so they can make new friends of their own! There’s no need to book a place, simply turn up and enjoy a warm welcome to your new home! From 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. Visit www.dohamums.com for more details.

September 17: The 4th annual Global Photo Walk is here and this year’s theme is ‘Action and Adventure’. So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to capture your own brilliant pictures showcasing the fast-pace life in Doha! The event is open to everyone, from professionals to first-timers. You can use anything, from your phone camera to a top of the range DSLR, whatever you like. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Visit www.eventbrite.com to register for your free ticket.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Walk In Gallery Tours

Thursdays & Saturdays: Atrium. Follow an experienced guide as they showcase an outstanding collection of items, reaching back over 1400 years and spanning three continents. You don’t have to book before hand, just turn up and prepare to be amazed! Visit www.mia.org.qa for more information, or call 4422-4444.

DOHA YOUTH AND JUNIOR CHOIR Auditions

WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA Filipino Community Family Day & Food Festival

September 13 to 15: Join in a celebration of everything that’s great about the Philippines! From delicious Filipino food, products, and cultural shows, to children’s games and workshops, there’s something to interest all the family. Tickets only QR 50. From 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. call 4488-4469 or 7793-3574 for more details.

September 17: Auditions for both the Youth and Junior choirs are being held to find the next addition to these ambitious musical groups. Children and young adults from ages seven to 18 are welcome. The choirs provide specialised training on how to sight read music, as well as giving them the confidence to perform in front of crowds. No experience is necessary, apart from a genuine love for singing! For more information, visit www. dohayouthchoir.com or call, 5578-0355.

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COMMUNITY

Words and selected images by Lynsey Riach Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

So you’ve settled down and had a baby, now you need to keep them active and happy We’ve compiled a handy list of places for you and baby to get involved which include great clubs and activities.

BABY CLASSES (0 - 1 YEAR+) Baby Swimming Lessons QSwim, Hamad Aquatic Centre Living in a hot country, it makes sense to teach babies how to swim from an early age, in fact, research has shown that babies who learn to swim show more confidence in water and are less likely to drown than those children who learn later on. Following the Australian system called AUSTSWIM, it is well known as the industry standard for Swimming and Water Safety Teachers™ and

is delivered and recognised in Australia and many other countries. Qswim offers a range of programmes for infants working closely to teach and provide learning skills that are appropriate and relevant to swimming and water safety skills that understand the principles and practices of water safety. Expect a fun class for babies full of nursery rhymes brought into the water, floaty toys and those all essential swimming basics.

Baby Music Class Tunes4Tots, Various locations This fun class has been in town for 10 years offering babies the chance to find their groove and rhythm with many instruments and play things to interact with. Let your baby find their singing voice, dance, sing, shake, rattle and roll whilst the bubbles fill the air (which is always a hit with the little ones!) Research shows for infants that music provides opportunities for playful interactions, challenging playthings are easily within reach so that infants can both try out new things and explore the possibilities of the familiar. Infants have freedom to move and to practice and perfect motor skills. Everything in the immediate environment is regarded as a learning resource. Individual endeavour, curiosity, and exploration are seen as positive.

Classes change weekly and are well designed to keep babies interested, learning and up to speed with their short attention spans. A music CD is given to each new class member to play and enjoy at home.

Baby Yoga Yama Yoga Studios, ASAS Towers The experience of movement combined with touch is possibly the richest stimulation we can offer babies from birth. In Yoga, this stimulation occurs through the mutual involvement of parent and baby, at a pace in which the baby can absorb and integrate it. As yoga postures induce deep relaxation in adults, in babies they bring out a state of great contentment and promote peaceful sleep. Baby yoga is a fairly new practice based on the old-age tradition. It includes simplified Yoga coupled with rhythmical, more energetic movement that can help maintain the baby’s interest and so both parent and baby can have fun together. During this four-week course, you will learn practical and safe yoga stretches for babies, based on yoga philosophy and principles. It will also include simple yoga breathing techniques and yoga stretches suitable for postnatal Mums. Each class is structured to give both mum and the baby a stretch, play and a chance to relax.

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Mini Yogis doing their thing with mum

Classes are taught in a calm and relaxed atmosphere which allows mums and babies to join in at their own pace whilst the use of music and nursery rhymes creates fun and excitement. Come and stretch, relax, play and bond with your baby through yoga whilst creating a community of new mums.

Baby Genius Gymboree Play & Learn, The Gate Mall A great new addition to town is the American franchise of this well-known baby gym full of fun and exploration for little ones! Gymboree Play & Music has been fostering creativity and confidence in children from the ages 0-5 for over 30 years. Today they are found in over 30 countries, making them the global leader in early childhood development programmes. Designed by experts, age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. Gymboree programme are also recognised for their unique approach to parent involvementâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; which encourages participation in and understanding of each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development. The Baby can explore the senses and support visual and auditory development with tummy time, flashlight play, first songs and more. Classes include parent discussion time to help learn about your child's development. The baby will also learn about cause and effect and build strength through play with ramps, slides and climbers. You can also explore twoway communication with your child in the play environment that encourages discovery, balance and coordination as parents learn to understand how their infant interacts and communicates with them and the world. n

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COMMUNITY

Words by Antony D. Antoniou

Being interculturally fluent is becoming increasingly important these days, but how exactly does one improve those skills? QH chatted to Amelia Moreno from the British Council to find out more about this intriguing course being offered right here in Qatar. QH: Can you please tell us your story about how you got involved with this subject? AM: Well I’m a born and bred Londoner but I have been based outside of the UK for about 15/16 years now, working in many different countries and continents. I have been working with the British Council for the last five years. Cultural Relations is integral to what the British Council does. Their remit is to develop and

Cultural

promote cultural relations. Prior to that, I used to work with UNICEF. I studied Development Studies, so cultural diversity has been a real passion for me. I myself am Maltese, I also have an Italian step family and I’m married to a Colombian, so I, personally have been influenced by cultural diversity.

The British council launched this intercultural fluency course last year when I was working with them at the teaching centre and I heard about this new course which sounded really interesting, so I was keen to get involved. Living in the Gulf, I realised how useful the course would be for people living in Qatar. We’re all thrown together into this melting pot; we all hail from all over the earth and so I felt that it was a skill that people would really benefit from. So for me it was a no-brainer. Now I am managing it and as of September, we will be rolling out the course across the Gulf region. Initially, this course was implemented to train British Council staff, because as you can imagine, we are constantly sending our staff all over the world and it’s important that they have the right

set of tools so as to thrive in these different countries and environments.

We realised how useful it was to have this skill set and so we then thought that this is something we could teach and share externally as well. QH: Is intercultural fluency a little bit like emotional intelligence? We all possess it but some of us are better at it than others. AM: I think it’s definitely a skill that you need to learn and a good example of this was a when I was dealing with a managing director just recently. This particular gentlemen had been flown around the world, working in many different countries, he had a huge amount of international experience but he was not interculturally fluent, which was fascinating because you’d think that because he had worked and lived in so many different countries, he would have acquired some skills. But living and working abroad doesn’t necessarily mean that you will become interculturally fluent. It’s a set of skills that need to be learned and honed. You need to become more open minded and adaptable. I would say there are definitely parallels with emotional intelligence and I think intercultural fluency is definitely becoming a new indicator in its own right. I don’t think all people posses it but I do think it is something that can be taught.

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Chameleons QH: So why is it important to learn about intercultural fluency?

AM: Well, in a nutshell, because it can directly impact your business, so for those who are looking to improve their company, they really cannot afford to over look this any longer. Individually speaking, it can also help you in your career, if people can see that you interculturally fluent, they are probably more likely to engage with you and rely on you and this may have positive consequences for your career. QH: Is it a one off lesson or is it a series of courses? AM: It’s a suit of courses and we offer it in three different ways. Although the messages we teach are fundamentally the same, we have to customise them to the various group/clients so that it makes sense to them. We run the courses monthly but for certain customers, we do bespoke work which is more relevant to their needs. QH: What are the key ‘take aways’ from your course? AM: It’s about knowledge, we want to teach people or make them aware about what culture

really means or how it can impact people. But the course itself, is incredibly practical, so you come away being able to communicate better with other cultures, there are also tips on how to listen more effectively, as well as improving body language, and optimising your internal strategies, or the delivery of those strategies. Each participant gets a work book which contains a lot of the theory, they can read it whenever they need to and they can continue to develop once back at work. QH: There are some interactive activities that are done to help students get a grasp of your course, can you tells a little about of them? AM: We use many case studies but also we have lots of activities because this is the method that the British Council truly believes works the best. This is the only way people really consolidate their learning. What I personally noticed is that practice is crucial, so once participants have grasped the concepts, it’s really important that they go and practice.

self-aware and the whole thing is done in a controlled situation. It is very important that they really practice the skills before they go back to their respective workplaces. n

Location: Al Sadd Street, Doha Website: www.britishcouncil.qa/en/programmes/ education/intercultural-fluency Contact: Email InterculturalFluency@qa.britishcouncil.org or call +974-4425-1888 Two Day Course: Introduction to Intercultural Fluency Course Dates: Sep’ 29 & Oct’ 6 Oct’ 20, 27, Nov’ 17 & 24 Dec’ 8 & 15 Jan' 19 & 26 Feb' 16 & 23 March' 23 & 30

Now, participants have the perfect opportunity to practice it in a semi-real life situation but in the safety of our classrooms, so they aren’t too

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

his month we welcome the start of a new school year. For my team at Doha College this year is more than just the start of another academic year, but a year where we welcome a new vision and a new approach to learning as we develop 21st-century global citizens.

Hands on learning at its finest

High Performance Learning With Doha College Words by Dr. Steffen Sommer, Principal of Doha College Images courtesy of Doha College

As the new school year approaches, thoughts turn to how students will cope and thrive with the busy schedule ahead of them. Doha College is looking to take their academic standards to new heights with their high performance learning programme, which aims to be inclusive and at the same time, tries to get the best academic results from every single student.

The vision that guided us thus far was “To be recognised as one of the leading international schools in the world,” and this we have achieved beyond doubt. The exceptional achievements of our students, our many accreditations and our well-deserved reputation have proven this many times over. Therefore, a new vision was formulated to steer our future journeys, and that is “to enable personal growth, instil a passion for learning and create aspirational minds.” As educators, we prepare our children for a world we cannot imagine, doing jobs that are as yet unknown, using technology that has not been invented. We can only succeed in such a daring undertaking by creating minds that are flexible, curious, creative and receptive. Many parents will be familiar with the established gifted and talented educational programme. In leading schools across the world, this scheme is being superseded by a new educational approach called “High-Performance Learning.” High-Performance Learning or HPL defines as its nexus the notion that all children can reach the highest academic level if they are passionate and well-motivated while being offered a plethora of opportunities to inspire them. This approach offers schools a path that is inclusive, challenging and ambitious and provides unprecedented opportunities to all learners, embracing a broad paradigm of education and represents an improvement-focused framework for outstanding schools. In essence, HPL is what excellent schools are all about. As a Pioneer School in High-Performance Learning, Doha College will collaborate closely with other leading schools in Qatar, the Middle East and globally to share best practices and disseminate the HPL ethos. Doha College will use this HPL framework to prepare our students for the diverse and unpredictable challenges of the 21st century, to influence other educators and thus engender a culture of high expectations in schools, and an appetite for life-long learning in children. We hope you will join us as we create a new educational road map in Qatar that places learning at the heart of our journey for all our children. n

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COMMUNITY

Listings

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

QH RECOMMENDS

6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

American Women’s Association 5511-8085 www.awaqatar.com

Doha Players

4447-4911 Search ‘Doha Players Lovers’ Group on Facebook

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Muhammad Ali: Tribute To A Legend

Thurs 7 July - Sat 5 November: Eastern Gallery, 4th Floor. An exhibition dedicated posthumously to world boxing legend Muhammad Ali (1942-2016). The temporary exhibition is curated by Qatar Museums’ 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports Museum and will present a unique collection of artefacts from the boxing legend’s career, including photography from Ali’s outdoor exhibition bout at the Doha Stadium in 1971 and memorabilia spanning his journey to the 1960 Rome Olympics; Ali’s world title winning bout against Sonny Liston in 1964 and his final world title winning fight against Leon Spinks in New Orleans in 1978. Visit www.mia.org.qa for more information, or call 4422-4444.

IAID Hip-Hop

Ongoing: Hip-Hop is a popular high energy urban dance style that uses the movement and choreography inspired by today's top tunes. During the course, students will learn locking, popping, basic break dancing and more. Students will gain strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination. Admission requires that you have a skills test to determine your aptitude and interest. Book a skills test now on our website! Designed for Children aged four to 18 years old. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234/66710589, visit www.iaid.qa or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

QATAR CANCER SOCIETY Breast Cancer Conference

Oct 28 & 29: This year’s conference will be held in the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Hotel, and is titled “Standards and New Perspectives”. Attendees will not only improve their knowledge of novel treatment approaches, but also leave the conference with the confidence and intent to apply state-of-the-art treatment strategies to care for their patients with breast cancer. Accompanying the Breast Cancer Conference is a specialized healthcare exhibition which will keep you informed of the latest innovations in the field of breast cancer care. Event begins at 4:00 p.m. QR 150 for doctors. QR 100 for any medical specialty except doctors. For more information call 4484-7777, or email conference@qcs.qa.

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL Qatar Toastmasters Club

Monthly: Radisson Blu Hotel. Come join us every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month and enhance your public speaking and presentation skills. You’ll improve self-confidence, and learn to think quickly and clearly under pressure. We teach skills that will make you a great leader! As you proceed, you will find that situations that once terrified you, now holds no fears for you. Each meeting lasts from 6:45 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. Membership fees are QR 750 for the first 6 months, then QR 650 every 6 months. For more information call 3311-5520.

SPLASH WATER PARK Pokémon Go Qatar Hunting & Meet-UP

September 2: Qatar Gamers Club is proud to present the 2nd Pokémon Go meet-up! This will take place at the SPLASH WATER PARK at Katara Beach #4, with plenty of water attractions and water games! Pokémon Go players have the opportunity to catch Pokémon in the water and from boats and slides. There will also be a Cosplay competition, prizes, surprises and much more! Gates opens at 3:00 p.m. Registration/entrance fee is QR 60, inclusive of all games and unlimited rides plus seven year olds and under get free entrance. For more information, call 3313-0395 or email info@snaptv.me or visit our website at www.snaptv.me.

5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 www.qncs.org

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

Search ‘Canadians In Qatar’ group on Facebook to join the community

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FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Schnitzel Sundays

Sundays: We are preparing a selection of five European variations on your all-time favourite schnitzel! Pair it with a refreshing beverage and start your week with comfort food. From QR 140 for a tender schnitzel of your choice and a selected beverage. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email us at restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit us at www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

INTERCONTINENTAL THE CITY Prime

Daily: For guests passionate about steak, award-winning Prime steakhouse is a bold, quality dining destination promising the finest selection of cuts consistently cooked and seasoned to perfection. Prime’s relaxed and comfortable setting combined with its exquisite cuisine will surely make for a memorable dining experience. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

HOLIDAY VILLA Malaysian Lunch Favourites

Saturdays: D’Chopstix. Experience a delightful weekend lunch with family and friends, and enjoy the exotic flavours of Southeast Asia starting from QR 25 per set. From the signature chicken and duck rice to the hearty clay pot fish head, Malaysia’s favourite lunch is here to stay. For reservations and inquiries, please call 4408-4230 or 4408-4220, or email fnb-assist@holidayvilladoha.com.

MOVENPICK DOHA The Recovery BBQ

RITZ CARLTON Picnic Fridays

Fridays: Lagoon Restaurant. Join us for the new the Picnic concept, featuring a sumptuous selection of picnic delights served to your table including family-style appetizers, grilled meats and seafood, refreshing pitchers and mouth-watering desserts, enjoyed with live music. Children will enjoy interactive games and activities at Lagoon Garden. For more information, call us on 4484-8512 or 4484-8000.

Saturday: Seasons. Big weekend. Big Finish. Got those Saturday night blues and you’re not ready to say goodbye to the weekend? Pop in at Seasons for a chilled out evening sipping on a smooth sip while enjoying the outdoor terrace BBQ. Kick back and chow down with your friends and start your week on a great note. From QR 165 per person. Add QR 45 and include house beverages. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit us at www.movenpick.com/hotel-doha.

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FOOD & DINING

Friday Brunch At Al Hubara Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Images courtesy of Jessie Palanca

Friday mornings are often a time to recharge with friends or loved ones in Qatar. QH decided to ‘recharge’ at the tried and tested Friday Sheraton Grand Doha brunch at Al Hubara.

eing one of the first five-star hotels in Qatar, the Sheraton Grand Doha is one of the most recognised hotels in the city and for many who grew up in Qatar; there is even a certain amount of affection for this iconic building. The Sheraton Grand Doha had an entire renovation just recently and although management largely kept the hotel’s identity the same, everything looks absolutely brand spanking new. When we walk through the hotel on the plush red carpet, I can feel the impeccable luxury of this very special hotel. The combination of gold, white, crystal, arabesque features and the vast geometric atrium, leave one feeling very fortunate to behold it. Our destination for our brunch this particular Friday is Al Hubara restaurant which is adjacent to the spacious lobby on the ground floor. Renowned in

Doha as a crossroads for international gastronomy, Al Hubara offers a myriad of buffet options and live cooking stations as well as an extensive a la carte menu. We were greeted by executive Sous Chef Issam Seddoq who took us on a delicious tour around Al Hubara’s sublime and sumptuous ten cooking stations. On offer was an eclectic mix which included Asian, Italian, seafood, Arabic, a salad bar, dessert, soup, and grilled food. Our children too were enthralled, and in particular, they seemed fixated on the dessert and kids’ cooking stations. Al Hubara is truly perfect for families, business groups or even just friends. The Executive Sous - Chef Vincent Leong and Indika Dewage are in charge of Al Hubara during Friday brunches, and they certainly made sure that our expectations were exceeded. The kid’s station had space for children to play with toys; they also had small bites on offer and a popcorn machine which was really fun. The excitement in the childrens' eyes was obvious to see and certainly added to the overall dining experience. I’m feeling the same, as I navigate around these tempting and varied cooking stations. After

our tour, we left our belongings at our table and sfill our plates. I start with salad and seafood. The freshness of vegetables and the seafood station is obvious and most welcome. I can see the variety of international cuisine with the smart combinations of flavours at the salad and seafood stations. At Al Hubara you can find oysters, king prawns, lobster, squid, crab and small fresh sea food bites that makes it very, very hard to stop eating! The waitress approached our table with a smile to make sure everything was alright. We were all pleased to be there and she could see it, as we all get up for a second helping. Al Hubara has a variety of cuisines to cater for different tastes, with innovative food to meet the costumer’s needs and expectations. To keep things fresh, the team at Al Hubara also change the menu every six months. I then go for the roasted duck and some dumplings. The duck is cooked to perfection, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Every bite melts in my mouth. The sweet sauce complements the rich flavours. I also bring some dumplings to our table, they are delicious too.

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Beautifully presented fare in sublime surroundings

Seafood lovers rejoice!

Time for dessert. My personal favourite is fresh fruits with melted chocolate from the chocolate fountain. Absolutely gorgeous. But I can’t resist the temptation and I also go for some Tiramisu cake. Everything is perfect and I find myself pleasantly surprised. Of course, I wasn’t able to try all of the cooking stations but from what I tired I can say that Al Hubara uses fresh ingredients and produces a high standard of quality. The Friday brunch flew by and the good things is, I’ve already made a plan for what I’ll try next time I visit, which will be quite soon, I can assure you! n SHERATON GRAND DOHA Location: Ground floor Timings: 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. (Friday Brunch). Licensed: yes Smoking: yes Contact Info: 4485-3000 Average Meal Price: QR 315 per person inclusive soft drink. QAR 415 per person inclusive of beverage. Complimentary for Kids under six, and 50%off for those above six years old.

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FOOD & DINING

Rescue Me! Words by Antony D. Antoniou, Images courtesy of Salam Hospitality Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

CAFÉ #999 just opened its doors a few months back at the recently renovated old Fire Station. QH went to rescue its appetite with some delicious grub that has a local twist.

ocated in the old Civil Defense HQ (near civil defence roundabout), CAFÉ #999 features an old fire truck, which serves food to passersby. There is also a brand spanking new indoor cafe of the same name for the hotter, more testing seasons of spring and summer. For those looking to fuse a bit of art & culture with a spot of lunch or dinner, CAFÉ #999 will be the culinary adventure of your week. I promise.

The Truck The fire truck has been cleverly converted into a food truck. It’s big and red and there is a menu displayed with some surprisingly unique flavours. It’s nice and I appreciate its quirkiness, something that Doha often lacks.

The Cafe The cafe itself looks minimalist but smart with a beautifully polished cement floor. It’s only a few steps away from the food truck but with air conditioning, nice tables/chairs and of course, the

Hearty food that will leave you wanting more! Ladies and gents r I present to you the sujuk burge

Wi-Fi signal we all relentlessly crave for these days; one can enjoy an easy afternoon at CAFÉ #999. It has a kind of brutalist/industrial feel to it, yet, the food is anything but. There are also some nice touches with some colourful rectangular bookshelves, featuring a number of arty books for sale. The big windows surround the cafe on three

sides, flooding it with light and great views of the cityscape of downtown Doha on one side, and the courtyard and fire station on the other side. I did hope that the emergency 999 theme would also be somehow continued in the main cafe itself, but it’s more subtle than I expected....however this isn’t such a big deal and on the whole, I really like the space.

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Cafe #999 - just as beautiful at night time with great views of the city

Camel burger, for those looking for something novel

The Fire Station with its artist in residence is just across the courtyard and is well worth taking a peak at before or after your meal. There is also an outdoor seating area which of course, can really only be used in the cooler months, but patience is a virtue as they say.

The Food The food was a mixture super healthy and super indulgent, which isn’t a mix you see very often these days, but I for one, am not complaining. Everything I put in my mouth was tasty and kind of unique. I simply adored the camel burger, not to mention the yummy potatoes wedges. The salads were fresh and thoroughly delicious as well and most dishes varied in price from QR 20 up to QR 40. This modern and stylish eatery has a number of dishes with Arabic and Asian influences. We also tried the sujuk burger which is a pomegranate bun filled with sujuk patty (sausage), gruyere, kashkawan cheese, onion, pomegranate spread, and batata harra. A must try dish! The menu is filled with clever takes on regional favourites and the drinks selection doesn’t disappoint either, I started off with a nutrition shot, the likes of which I have never tired before. It was called the Basilico and within this concoction of utter healthiness were carrots, basil, honey, peach, and lemon. I am salivating, just thinking about it. Then later, I also had the refreshing sparkling hibiscus ice tea which was served in front of us in some kind of pressurised can device.

The le president chocolate cake

There were many wonderful sweet treats; however, I fell in love with the le president chocolate cake, filled with cherries and delicious mousse chocolate. I could have eaten about three of them! Unlike many places in Doha, they also had plenty of vegetarian options which was nice to see. All in all, I think CAFÉ #999 is deserving of a visit, the food is nice and there is a decent range on offer for those who want something healthy or for those feeling a little bit naughty. n

CAFÉ #999 Location: Near Civil defence roundabout. at The Fire Station Artist in Residence building. Between the Corniche and Al Sadd. Timings: 8: 00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday to Thursday and 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Fridays.

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As told to Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of Doha Marriott Hotel Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

As we all know, some of the best food comes straight from the streets. QH went to speak with Doha Marriottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chef Oliver Weber who has recreated the same unique vibe with their famous Street Food Night. QH: In which country have you had the best street food experience? OW: This is a difficult one to answer as literally every country has unique signature street food items. If I have to nail it down to one country, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d say China, closely followed by Korea. There is such an incredible amount of street food selections and variety to choose from. Each and every single item is unique in terms of flavour, preparation and presentation, ranging from breakfast to all day options and Chinese street BBQ, to desserts.

QH: If you could have any street food item, what would it be & why?

QH: Where did you get the inspiration from to create this unique concept?

OW: Although China has the widest range of offerings, the item that I would ultimately choose is the Korean Gamja Jeon. These are delicious potato based savoury pancakes, and sometimes scallions, chives, carrots or soy beans are added. This item is served with a very simple soy and vinegar dip. Being so far away from home in Germany and with potato pancakes being a specialty of the region I am from, when I close my eyes, the taste of the Gamja Jeon always transports me back home!

OW: Street food brings you closer to a culture as you have to communicate with the locals and experience their traditional food. Great memories are often associated with great food. Therefore, as soon as I arrived at the Doha Marriott Hotel 18 months ago, my first thought when I saw the Restaurant Gallery was ...Street Food! The venue and location lends itself perfectly for this unique concept and I believe that it provides as much of an authentic experience as is possible in a five star hotel setting.

QH: What are you three favourite food items at the Thursday evening Street Food night at the Doha Marriott? OW: There are literally so many great options at the Street Food and my mouth is watering just thinking about it. However, my favourites would have to be the salsa crazy bread, Okonomi Yaki (Japanese pancakes) and Indian Nizami Kathi roll.

QH: Are you planning to add any new items to the street food menu any time soon? OW: What is really special and unique about the Street Food concept is that it is continuously evolving. Items are changed or added on a weekly or monthly basis without any guidelines or restrictions. Our aim is to make the user experience as exciting and fun as possible, and if people come to Street Food on a regular basis, they will always find something new and different to try. Our specialty chefs are free to change an item at any time.

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Cooked right in front of you by specialty chefs

QH: Why do you think that Street Food has been so popular? OW: The popularity of this concept has been really exciting to watch and be a part of, I feel like it has taken on a life of its own and I am merely guiding it. I believe that its success is a combination of freshly cooked food, raw ingredients on display, communication with the chefs and a fun environment that’s very casual and authentic. It’s something that appeals to all ages and there is literally something for everyone. Let’s not forget that it’s also great value for money! Chef Oliver Weber

QH: What is the one Street Food item that is available every Thursday that is not to be missed? OW: Again, there are so many to choose from, but I would recommend that everyone tries the Chinese dumplings. These delicious morsels are freshly prepared, on the spot by our Specialty Chinese Chef, Chef Zheng. QH: Being from Germany, what is your favourite German street food? OW: Sausages in bread roll with mustard, or the very famous Berlin curry sausage are my ultimate go-to street foods from back home. n

DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL Timings: From 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Date: Every Thursday Contact: 4429-8499

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FOOD & DINING

Words by Antony D. Antoniou

Wahm is back! The stylish late night lounge at the W Doha Hotel & Residences has had its makeover and QH couldn’t wait to take a sneak peek inside. One of Doha’s best pool side lounges is once again on the scene and ready to party!

he dazzling new interior is simply one of a kind and now looks in complete harmony with the rest of the hotel’s interior. The word we keep hearing as we take a brief tour is that Wahm has evolved. One look at this re-energized space and I have already forgotten what the old Wahm looked like! But when you feast your eyes on the striking gold trim which is everywhere and the sophisticated overall feel of the place, shedding old skin suddenly becomes quite an attractive proposition. Wahm’s new look can only be described as modern, dramatic, and urber chic. The venue has undergone

a complete transformation from a night spot into a sophisticated lounge and eatery with the use of vibrant strong colours and a spectacular new menu. The gold fins-clad ceilings are brought in from the terrace to form a feature above and to the back of the venue, separated by mosaics to represent water falling to tie- in with the wet deck. Rich green panelling surrounds the lounge with gold detailing and textured wall coverings to add a sophisticated decadence. Beautiful handmade chairs covered in velvet give a feeling of softness and elegance. The new design was the concept of Jean-Georges, from United Design Partnership (UDP), based in London. This is the same team who designed the interior for the rest of the W Doha. This was an exercise in pure decadence and opulence and the results are clear for all to see. UDP Design Director, Danielle Duggleby commented, “We wanted to refresh the Wahm concept with new designs using interesting materials contrasting each other in texture and colour. The result has created a refined lounge while staying true to the W brand.”

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Tasty mini burgers, yes please!

The new menu has taken Wahm to the next level!

Not only has the venue itself been given a facelift but the menu too has been improved. Now, one can â&#x20AC;&#x153;retoxâ&#x20AC;? with a selection of well crafted beverages or detox with raw juices and mocktails, and even fill the craving for comfort food with hearty servings styled to make anyone feel good for the day or night ahead. Complementing this is the sound that sets the scene with resident and international DJs behind the decks playing world electronic music with eclectic oriental and occidental fusion sounds until sunset. Stimulating beats and deep soulful house progresses into the peak of the night with solid grooves that will make Wahm the go-to spot this winter. n WAHM Open daily from 5:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. Breakfast and lunch offerings expected to launch in the coming months. For reservations or enquiries, please contact +974 4453-5000. For more information, please visit www.whoteldoha.com.

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FOOD & DINING

My Armenian Kitchen Recipe courtesy of Chef Zarmig Photography by Jessie Palanca

Want to try something different and healthy? Mamig and Aziza restaurants’ Chef Zarmig creates a lovely little dish with the wonderfully named Healthy Wealthy Chicken Salad from her vast repertoire of traditional Armenian cooking. Healthy Wealthy Chicken Salad Ingredients: • 200 grams of chicken breast grilled • 1 piece cucumber • 2 garlic cloves • 4 tbsp. olive oil • 3 tbsp. lemon juice • 1 piece ginger • 2 cherry tomatoes • Salt, pepper Directions: • Marinate the chicken with chili paste, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper mashed ginger and grilled garlic for an hour. • Grill the chicken breast until it becomes tender and juicy. • Cut the tomatoes, peel the cucumber and add as a garnish.

“I chose the freshest ingredients and served it in a most appetizing way as you can see. All you have to do now is grab a fork and enjoy my healthy and delicious signature dish.” n

For more information on the restaurants of Chef Zarmig, visit www.mamigdoha.com and www.azizadoha.com.

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Armenian Cuisine Words by Chef Zarmig Photography by Jessie Palanca

rmenia food is rich in heritage and has had a profound impact on regional tastes due to its unique flavour. Armenian Cuisines is food that brings family and friends together. On my travels through Armenia, I discovered and brought back the tastes and traditions of interesting Armenian dishes. Being a pioneer in Qatar, I was able to introduce and open people up to Armenian heritage and food. When I was travelling in Armenia I got a chance to meet many “ Mamigs“ which means grandmothers, who are fountains of wisdom when it comes to authentic Armenian cooking. At the same time, I did a lot of research about the history, traditions and culinary secrets of this fascinating and ancient land.

almonds, walnuts, and also pickles and fresh herbs, characterizes many Armenian dishes. Armenia is part of a region where different cultures have influenced each other’s cuisine, and as such, there is some uncertainty as to the origins of many dishes. Through so much cultural and gastronomic exchanges, we found it hard to identify who had influenced who. Either way, there are many key dishes that Armenians are very proud of.

As an Armenian Chef, I often served as a cultural ambassador for my homeland, introducing not only new varieties of food to Qatar but a deep respect for my Armenian heritage. What makes Armenian food especially delightful is that it is made with a strong sense of heritage and respect for old traditions, which is the main secret to its longevity and beautiful flavours.

Eventually this resulted in me making a special cook book about Armenia’s profound history and recipes that I am are very proud of. I even put the flag of Armenia in my first edition of my cook book as well as the interesting tidbits about the culture, traditions, and even the alphabet so that people could learn not only about the recipes but also about Armenia in general.

When it comes to the preparation of meat, fish and vegetable stuffing, both frothing and pureeing are very important. Lamb, eggplant, yoghurt and our amazing bread – which is also called lavash, are the basic features of Armenian cuisine. Whilst rice is popular among the European and Asian regions, Armenians use cracked wheat, also called burghu instead.

Even right up to the present day, Armenians are not fond of fast food because they prefer using fresh and healthy ingredients. The extensive use of dried fruits like plums, apricots, as well as nuts such as

Eech Salad which is made of burghul, is an old classic. A long time ago, it was a tradition for men living in the mountains, to have their wives prepare it for them in the mornings before they went to

work, so that they would have enough energy for the entire day. The rivers and lakes of Armenia are rich with fish such as the widely used pollan fish or trout which can be found in Lake Sevan. Trout is famous for its delicate taste. The Sevan trout is called “ishkhan”. Armenian foods include small appetizers called meze, salads with grains and herbs, Filo pastries called byoreks, grilled meats, and a large variety of soups, stews, fish, meat and dairy products. It also includes flat breads and lots more. In short, Armenian cuisine is inventive, adaptable, healthy, frugal and delicious. n

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FOOD & DINING

Mr and Mrs Victor – two satisfied customers

QH: Did you find the prices reasonable? LUV:The price was definitely reasonable; one dish from the menu can easily be shared by two people because the portions were generous. I couldn’t eat it all by myself, so, it was a good thing my husband was there to help me. QH: Describe the ambiance.

Word Of Mouth Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our loyal readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice within our pages. This month Ms. Laura Ubaldo Victor sampled a delicious dinner at Issan, the Grand Hyatt Doha’s iconic Thai restaurant. Here is her review. QH: What did you order? Stunning tastes and beautiful plating will have you dreaming about the food for weeks to come

LUV: We ordered the Taste of Lam Takhong (a la carte) which was mostly seafood, a bit of chicken, some beef, all of which was infused with a mild level of spiciness. It also contained lobster, sea bass, prawns, and crab.

LUV: The ambience was very warm and since the majority of the staff were Thai, it really added to the authenticity of the place. This gave me the confidence to expect good quality food. We were welcomed with their traditional greeting of “Sawadika”/“Sawadikap”, which was nice. QH: Describe the quality of the food. LUV: I’ve been to some Thai restaurants but Issan is most definitely the best so far for Thai food. Well presented, and the freshness of the ingredients was certainly obvious and a joy to savour. QH: Describe the quality of the service. LUV: The service was perfect, while they serve you the food they also inform you as to its name and what’s in it. They checked on us regularly and made sure we had everything we needed for a pleasant night out. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not?

Our drinks were specialty mocktails which were delicious and we also had some tea later. I experienced three lovely desserts. First, we tried the coconut, then the black bean ice cream, and lastly, we went for the sticky rice with coconut cream and mangoes.

LUV: I would definitely go back, it’s perfect for couples, or with family. No reason not to come back! QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? LUV: My favourite thing aside from the food itself, was watching the various Chef’s cooking in the open kitchen opposite us. QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? I can’t really think of anything, our experience was most pleasant and hassle free. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? LUV: The welcome greeting was a unique and lovely gesture; it made us feel special. QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? LUV: For now, I don’t see anything that needs to be improved. It’s just fine the way it is. n

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Listings All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

QH RECOMMENDS

FOUR SEASONS Eid Al Adha Lunch Buffet

Available during three days of Eid Al Adha: Elements. Savour a truly sumptuous Eid Lunch buffet in the delightful surrounds of the Elements restaurant. Indulge in array of live cooking stations and mouth-watering dessert selections with your families and loved ones. From QR 200 inclusive of local water. QR 300 with special beverage package. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Chef’s Table INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Hwang

Daily: In the relaxed yet refined setting of our Pan Asian restaurant Hwang, you will enjoy a truly eclectic Asian dining experience. We offer the finest cuisine from eight different countries across the region. Open daily for lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Yum Cha Brunch on Friday from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA NAAN Stop Tandoori

Thursdays: Azraq restaurant. An authentic Indian buffet serving tandoor cuisine prepared and served at live cooking stations. The textures, flavours and expressive range of Indian cuisine are sumptuously brought alive. Diners can choose from a selection of seafood, meat and vegetarian Indian food options in Azraq Restaurant. From 7:00 p.m. till 10.30 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050 or email us at fbreservations.adoh@anantara.com.

HOLIDAY VILLA Themed Buffet Dinner With Live Carving Stations

Thurs-Friday: Lagenda. Indulge in themed dining every Thursday and Friday. Give into your cravings with Blazing Brazilian flavours and Smoking Hawaiian cuisines. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

NANDO’S Afro-Portuguese Fusion

Daily: Astor Grill. Book the Chef’s Table and get up close to the Astor Grill Culinary team! Enjoy the theatre of the kitchen! Our chefs will create a bespoke menu, including three or four courses served with or without a sommeliers selection. From QR 395 (three courses) or QR 495 (four courses). Grape pairing starting at QR 225. From 6:00 p.m. till Midnight. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Daily: We are proud to announce that Nando’s in Hyatt Plaza mall has re-opened with a brand new look. The restaurant has been shut since November 2015 and opened again on the first day of Eid Al Fitr in July 2016. The new look represents Nando’s new visual identity with its Afro-Portuguese inspired colours and patterns, and features a selection of Nando’s Art all the way from South Africa on display. Visit us at www.oryxfood.com for more details.

BBQ Night

RADISSON BLU Pinchos & Grapes

Trio Lunch

Sat, Sun, Mon, 5th-28th Sept: Picasso’s Restaurant. Feast on a variety of delicious Pinchos! Platter of six pinchos with a glass of sommelier’s choice. Every Saturday, Sunday and Monday from the 5th to 28th of September. Opening hours from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Various options – priced individually – ranging from QR 109 to Q 139. For table reservations call 4428-1555.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Sridan

Daily: A lively Souq atmosphere and vibrant décor serving from ten open kitchens. Open for breakfast from 6:00 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. and until 11:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Join us for lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Family Friday Brunch is from 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Shangri-La Hotel Doha, Sridan Restaurant, Level 2, Conference Centre Street, West Bay. For more information call 4429-5295 or email us at sridan@shangri-la.com.

Thursdays: Vine. Ring in the weekend and experience a wide selection of BBQ classics while enjoying breath-taking views from the terrace. From QR 320 with soft beverages, or QR 420 including grapes, grain and special beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Mon-Thurs: Al Sultan Brahim. Enjoy a superb trio lunch for QR 125 per person inclusive of food, Shisha and soft drinks. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS DOHA MARRIOTT Salsa

Sun-Fri: Our Mexican Cuisine Mariachi Band is back! Enjoy a lively slice of Mexico at the Salsa TexMex Restaurant. Let the authentic picturesque setting and its colourful charm be an exciting backdrop for an evening full of rich flavours and spices and let our authentic Mariachi Band liven up your dining experience. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For reservations and more information call 4429-8499.

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Friday Brunch

Fridays: Restaurant Gallery. A culinary journey like no other, discover a range of live stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, with famous dishes from around the globe. Highlights from the weekend brunch include a wide selection of fresh sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream, kounafa and more. Now offering a kid’s club zone with a special buffet and activities. QR 270 with soft drinks and QR 370 including house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

Corniche Restaurant

Daily: Check out the vibrant new look of our Corniche all-day dining restaurant, displaying abstract wall art showcasing some of Doha’s most iconic features. In addition to the international a la carte menu, it features delicious fresh breakfast and special three course business lunch, not to mention its lavish evening seafood buffets. The extravagant Doha Marriott Brunch on Fridays and Saturdays is one of the best brunches in town and invites you on a culinary journey around the world. Let us pamper you with live cooking stations, specialty corners, scrumptious desserts and much more. Breakfast from 6:00 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. Lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Dinner from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

HILTON Tuesday Mussels Indulgence

Tuesdays: Trader Vic’s. Get one pot plud and one house beverage for only QR 99, or unlimited mussels for two for QR 350 with a bottle of grapes or four hops based beverages. For reservations, please call 4423-3118 or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

Seafood Night

Thursdays: Mawasem. Indoor and on the terrace, taste delicious dishes from the sea and choose from a wide selection of fish, lobster, crab, tiger prawns and mussels starting at only QR 250. For reservations, please call 4423-3112 or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com

HOLIDAY VILLA Cooling Summer Treats At The Lobby Lounge

Daily: Lobby Lounge. A dwelling for where dessert lovers can be found. From the famous Malaysian shaved ice dessert, peach melba, cookies & cream crunch sundae to the signature banana split, these treats are a sure way to beat the heat. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Paloma

Daily: Paloma. We serve the best Tex-Mex favourites and live music you will find in Qatar! Try out our new menu with specialities from all around South America. We screen a wide variety of international sporting events and offer a great selection of beverages. We are also proud to introduce our new band, Soul Shake! For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

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FOOD & DINING Mykonos

Daily: It’s all Greek to Me! Join us at Mykonos (winner of Best Family Restaurant/ Best Mediterranean Restaurant) for a truly Greek experience; a three-course menu with some of our classic dishes. Choose between our dip trio and a traditional Greek salad, followed by hearty moussaka or grilled hamour for those looking for something lighter. Round your night off with a silky Galaktoboureko or a nutty Karidopita. Only QR 150 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Belgian Cafe

Daily: The award-winning restaurant and lounge offers its clientele 23 kinds of ethnic Belgian beverages, together with stunning Belgian-inspired dishes. Always offering a warm welcome and delightful company, this is a real piece of old Europe in the heart of the desert. Find us situated on the mezzanine level and boasting spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and Doha Skyline. There’s a reason we’ve won Awards for Favourite European Restaurant. Come and see for yourself. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY The Square International Dinner Nights

Listings KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES European Brunch

Fridays: Aroma. Indulge yourself in a contemporary boutique European brunch buffet selection. On offer is a variety of breakfast classics, salads and starters, along with roasts and main courses, topped off with delicious sweet treats. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 195 per person or QR 390 with premium beverages. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Ladies Breakfast

Daily: Aroma. Ladies can enjoy the Kempinski breakfast buffet at Aroma for only QR 75 per person, daily from 6:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Express Business Lunch by Aroma

Sat -Thurs: Aroma. Experience the new express business lunch menu, brought to you by the Executive Chef Vinon Yergu. Aroma offers a creative two or three-course menu by using fresh and locally farmed ingredients, all served within 45 minutes. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Priced at QR 75 to QR 95 per person. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

A Family Feast Of Lamb Ouzi!

Daily: Bohemia. Enjoy this celebration in the comfort of your home! Allow the culinary team of the award winning, Al Sufra prepare a delicious lamb ouzi for you and your loved ones. Accompanied by your choice of saffron rice and dakkouse sauce, oriental brown rice or mansaf rice with jameed sauce. Sharing has never been easier or tastier! Please place your order 48 hours in advance of your desired pick-up time. From only QR 1500 for half a lamb/QR 3000 for a whole lamb. For more information call 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Burger Mania

Wednesdays: Sawa. Calling all burger lovers in Doha! To help you get through the week check out the tastiest burger menu in town. QR 100 for a tantalizing burger and a selected beverage. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Weekend Brunch Collection Family Late Brunch

Daily: Choose from an exciting array of international dishes every night at The Square. Indulge in flavours from around the world starting from Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, Gulf and India. Don’t forget to enjoy our divine dessert bar. From QR 150 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Ladies High Tea Wednesdays

Wednesdays: Gourmet House. Ladies can enjoy a contemporary High Tea with a special 20% off every Wednesday afternoon. QR 168 for two persons, including coffee or tea. From 12 p.m. till 7 p.m. For more information, contact 4405-3326, or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Thursdays: Sawa. Start the weekend with your family at the Thursday Family Late Brunch in Sawa. Indulge in live cooking stations and if you enjoy the finer things in life, they’ll upgrade you to the unlimited Wagyu experience, with at least eight cuts of only the best Australian Wagyu meat in the city. QR 225 per person including soft beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Shisha Lounge

After-Party Midnight Snacks

Friday Signature Brunch

Join us at our newly opened Shisha Lounge! Al Jalsa Garden is the place to relax whilst you enjoy the best selection of Arabesque food and beverages along with a unique signature Shisha menu. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Thurs-Fri: Gourmet House. Allow us to entice your midnight taste buds with our NEW menu. From 12:00 a.m. onwards. The perfect remedy for all your after-party midnight cravings! For more information call 4405- 3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski. com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Eid Al Adha

MARRIOTT MARQUISE CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Lunch At New York Steakhouse

Join us at The Square for a special brunch on the first and second day of Eid Al Adha to celebrate the occasion! We will be serving a special festive brunch of authentic regional and international dishes for QR 220 - Inclusive of soft beverages, and QR 320 – Inclusive of selected house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Cosmopolitan Thursdays

Thursdays: The Square. Celebrate with friends the beginning of the weekend with dinner and refreshments. Enjoy popular international dishes on the buffet from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. along with your favourite house beverages. Priced at QR 255 with soft drinks, QR 355 with selected house beverages, and QR 390 with special house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Sun - Thurs: New York Steakhouse. Savour a threecourse set menu designed by Chef David Dahlhaus at our award-winning New York Steakhouse for just QR 95. Opening times are 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-5000 or visit us at www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Bohemia

Daily: Bohemia. The menu offers a selection of delicious frozen coffee smoothies, chocolates and other original cake creations, classic cigars and light bites, in a relaxing lounge setting with comfortable chairs and sofas. Prices are a la carte. From 8.00 a.m. till 2.00 a.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email us at restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Fridays: Sawa. Welcome the weekend with the only five-star brunch experience on The Pearl. Enjoy live cooking stations around the restaurant and its terraces, showcasing signature delicacies from around the world. A large selection of appetizers, main courses, grilled meat and seafood, oysters, sushi and more, paired with great beverages, outstanding live entertainment and authentic service. A mini-corner is available for the younger guests. QR 330 per person including soft beverages, or QR 425 per person including house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK AL AZIZIYAH HOTEL DOHA Seafood Night At Flavours

Thursdays: Enjoy an extravagant evening of tempting seafood at Flavours, featuring the freshest crabs, oysters, prawns and other treasures of the sea. Only QR 180. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For reservations and more information please call 4445-5544, or visit us at www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah.

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Turkish Cuisine

Daily: Agora Restaurant. The hotel’s signature restaurant represents the best of authentic Turkish cuisine in a traditional setting. From 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For reservations and more information please call 4445-5540, or visit us at www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah.

Sushi & Steak At Blue

Saturdays: Blue. Treat yourself to an experience like never before with a succulent combination of Sushi & Steak. Be sure to get the best of both worlds, only at Blue! From 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. From only QR 215 per person. For reservations and more information please call 4445-5535, or visit us at www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah.

MÖVENPICK DOHA Taste the World

Mon-Tues: Seasons. The globetrotter’s dream and the traveller’s choice. Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. Each week our talented chefs draw inspiration from many cultural cuisines and present a wide variety of authentic flavours and aromas from around the world. You will be spoilt for choice whilst exploring dishes from Asia, Europe, Middle East and so much more. From QR 65 per person. Add QR65 for two of our sommeliers choice, or three brews. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit us at www.movenpick.com/hotel-doha.

NANDO’S Lunch Offer

Daily: Improve your lunch life! Experiment with our Burgers, Pitas and Wraps with one side and any beverage of your choice for only QR 45. From 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. daily at all Nando’s restaurants, until 30th September 2016. Visit us at www.oryxfood.com for more details.

ORYX ROTANA “Grab N’ Go” Breakfast

Daily: Sky Lounge. A new breakfast counter in the morning with sandwiches, mueslis, fruits, muffins and pastries. Items can be consumed in the lounge or to go. From 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Choices Surf & Turf Night

Mondays: Choices. Check out the sumptuous selection featuring a wide variety of seafood and meat dishes served in an open buffet or prepared to your liking by the chefs at live cooking stations. Packages start from QR 270 per person for food only, QR 360 including unlimited selected house beverages. Better yet, try Choices’ premium package for QR 390 including unlimited special selected refreshments. Children aged six to 11 dine for QR 140. For more information call 4402-3333.

Tapas Galore Selection

Tuesdays: The Cellar. Enjoy tantalizing tapas with unlimited sommelier’s selection for only QR 300 per person, or QR 160 per person for food-only. For more information call 4402-3333.

RADISSON BLU Tapas, Grape & Paint Event Picasso’s

Tues 27th September: Picasso’s Restaurant. Doha’s favourite night is back! Have a go creating your very own Picasso painting while indulging on tasty tapas. From 7.00 p.m. till late. From QR 225 per person, inclusive of food and selected beverages. Over 21’s. Qatari ID required. For tickets and reservations please call 4428-1555.

RITZ CARLTON Serious Eats And Tipsy Teas

Daily: Admiral’s Club. Mix and match from our seasonal menu – featuring the 1kg Triple Threat Burger, Chicken Waffle Sandwich, Philly Cheese Steak, Fish and Chips Jaw Cracker and Crab Cake Burger, paired with our bartender's special infused Tipsy Iced Teas. From 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, contact us on 4484-8000.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Shanghai Club

Mon-Sat: Shanghai Club is the first of its kind and the highest elevated Chinese restaurant in Doha. This is a new-age chic restaurant with a 100% Chinese brigade and the best venue to savour authentic Cantonese, Sichuan and Shanghinese cuisines while admiring the Doha skyline from the 43rd and 44th floors. Open for dinner from 7:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Lounge & balcony open from 5:30 p.m. until late. DJ & entertainment are on offer from 9:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4429-5295 or email us at shanghai.club@shangri-la.com.

Business Lunch

Weekdays: Yabby. Dive into a selection of the freshest catch and get hooked on the yabbylicious creations at QR 85 for a two-course lunch menu, or QR 95 for a three-course menu from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. on weekdays. For more information call 4429-5295.

Ibn Battuta Friday Brunch

Fridays: Sridan. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Arabian explorer Ibn Battuta and enjoy ten live-action stations from around the world and live entertainment for QR 285 with soft drinks, or QR 385 with premium beverages at Sridan. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

Lobster Friday Brunch

Fridays: Yabby. To all seafood fans, Yabby has a new oceanic Friday brunch. Experience the first adults-only Friday Brunch in Doha starting from 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For QR 320 including soft drinks or QR 440 including bubbly and select beverages. And if you book online, you will get 25% off. For more information call 4429-5295, or email us at yabby@shangri-la.com.

Fuego

Tues-Sun: The culinary fire and passion of the Argentine pampas come alive with live entertainment every day except Mondays. Open from 5:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, email us at fuego@shangri-la.com, or phone 4429-5295.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Seafood Night

Wed & Thurs: Al Hubara. Enjoy a sumptuous seafood experience- all-day dining restaurant with a lavish buffet selection. Food is prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients to tantalize your taste-buds. QR 295 per person inclusive of soft drinks. QR 395 per person with top-up package. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

Eid Celebration Al Hubara. Celebrate this Eid with the spirit of togetherness and harmony and experience a true culinary journey. 1st Day: Arabic Lunch QR 240 per person, including soft beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. International Buffet QR 315 per person, including soft beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. 2nd and 3rd day of Eid: Eid Brunch QR 315 per person, including soft beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Sea Food Night QR 295 per person, including soft beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

International Brunch

Fridays: Al Hubara. Spend quality time with your loved ones while dining and enjoying an array of international specialties at the all-day dining restaurant. QR 315 per person inclusive of soft drinks, or QR 415 per person with their special Top-Up package. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

FOUR SEASONS Express Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Elements. The go-to restaurant for your weekday express lunch! Experience a delicious range of four different cuisines, Asian, seafood, Arabic and Indian. You will certainly satisfy your palate. In a hurry? Try their express lunch set menu which includes a two-course menu option and three-course menu featuring a selection of simple salads or warm soup, low calorie main course and irresistible desserts. Express lunch is QR 85 per person for a two-course menu, or QR 95 per person for a three-course menu. Buffet lunch at QR 175 per person including local water. Lunch Buffet will be available after Eid Al Adha. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch Fridays: Isaan. Get an outstanding Thai Chatuchak Weekend Market experience with brunch from 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Walk around and explore the colourful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. A range of options are available. Enjoy a soft drink brunch for QR 290, a house beverage package for QR 399, or a special bubbly brunch package for QR 850. For more information call 7021-8097.

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FOOD & DINING Ba Mee Nights Saturdays: Isaan restaurant. Noodle fever has hit Doha with Isaan’s “Ba Mee nights”. Every Saturday we are offering you four selections of noodles to share with a choice of noodle based appetizer, soup, curry and stir-fried dishes for QR 100 only. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1250 or 7021-8097.

Listings THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Bubbalicious Brunch

Daily: From QR 320 including soft beverages, QR 395 includes our truly scrumptious Bubbalicious package, or QR 595 including our Royalicious package. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4492-1555 or visit us at www.seasonaltastesdoha.com/bubbalicious.

New Set Menus at Isaan

Breakfast Club

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger Night

Eid Special- Signature Lamb Menu

Daily: Isaan. Encouraging culinary exploration, Thai chef de cuisine Somporn Sintawee is offering diners the opportunity to discover Doha’s most authentic Thai food at incredible prices with four new set lunch menus, starting at QR 150. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1250 or 7021-8097.

Mondays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy the tastiest and juiciest burger in town! Choose from lamb, Wagyu beef, or Opal’s vegetarian burger served with fluffy fat fries and homemade tomato sauce all for QR 100. Desserts at QR 30. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

BBQ Night

Thursdays: Vine. Ring in the weekend and experience a wide selection of BBQ classics while enjoying breath-taking views from the terrace. Follow dinner with a trip to the rooftop for a nightcap and music from their resident DJ. QR 320 with soft beverages, or QR 420 including grapes, grain and special beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Arabic Dinner Buffet

Sat-Tues: Vine. Bring together the perfect combination of old and new recipes. Gather with family and friends whilst discovering a delightful feast of meze, music and refreshing beverages. End the day in the company of friends; enjoy the sweet smell of Shisha on the terrace. QR 150 for food and soft beverages or hot drinks, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 135 for Shisha or QR 165 for the special Shisha, from 8:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

The Saturday Tea Party

Daily: Luxe Lounge. Join us for coffee, croissants and conversations in Doha’s Downtown Sanctuary. From QR 30, starting at 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information, visit us at www.LuxeloungeDoha.com, email us at dining.doha@westin.com or call 4492-1555.

Eid Al Adha: Hunters Room & Grill. Chef Bulent creates magnificent delights just in time for Eid Al Adha. Feast your eyes and feed your soul for traditional specialities cooked to perfection! For more information email dining.doha@westin.com or call 4492-1555.

New Buffet Theme Nights-

Daily: Seasonal Tastes. There’s something to delight your taste buds every day! Spicy Sunday – Indian buffet- best rotis, curies and tandoori grills in town for only QR 150. Mexican Monday – tacos, rice & salads for only QR 150. Trattoria Tuesday – Italian buffet- Pasta, pizza, risotto and salads for only QR 150. Wonton Wednesday- Asian buffet Noodles, curries, sushi and rice for only QR 150. Thursday- Claws & Shells night- All you can eatSeafood Buffet for only QR 229. Saturday - Arabic Buffet Dinner for only QR 229. All served with soft drinks. Additional packages available for grapes and grains. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information visit us at www.seasonaltastesdoha.com or call 4492-1555.

W DOHA Supper Club

Sat-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges, La Spiga by Paper Moon, and Spice Market. Wrap up the day with all your dinner essentials in a three-course menu for QR 100 for food-only. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For reservations or more info, please contact 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Saturdays: Sarab Lounge. We have an afternoon tea buffet with unlimited teas and pastries. Get together with the girls at Sarab Lounge for an ultimate afternoon tea experience just as Caroline Astor did in St. Regis New York. From only QR 195 for adults, and QR 95 for kids. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

W T-Time

THE TORCH DOHA Crab Thursdays

Sushi Night

Thursdays: Panorama. Specialty chefs present an array of dishes influenced by crab where you can find crab cakes, roasted and raked crabs, spicy black crabs and many more. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Located on the 50th floor. For more information call 4446-5600 or email us at www.restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Daily: W Café. Come and enjoy the W afternoon tea and cream tea with a 10% discount for SPG members. QR 120 per person. From 12:30 a.m. till 7:30 p.m. For reservations or more information, please contact 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Saturdays: Spice Market. Come and spend an evening with us at Spice Market as we have carefully selected and prepared Japanese inspired sashimi, nigiri and maki. Limited offer, reservations required. From QR 250 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For reservations or more information, please contact 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Latino Steakhouse Sheraton Grand Doha

Ruby Wu’s Radisson Blu

INTERNATIONAL

SPANISH & TEX-MEX Aceite 4018-8894 California Tortilla 4434-4144 4466-0663 Chili’s El Faro 4035-5555 Fuego 4429-5000 Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 4446-0105 Oyster Bay Paloma 4484-4444 4428-1428 Picasso’s Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 Salsa 4429-8888 Toro Toro Doha 4035-5101

ARABIC & LEBANESE Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad 4491-8692 Al Bandar 4431-1818 Al Batross 4432-8888 Al Canteen 4433-6666 Al Mourjan 4483-4423 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Shaheen Restaurant 4485-3000 Al Sufra 4035-5555 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Al Tabkha 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875 Al Tawash 4498-2002 Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam 4495-3876, Ext: 1291 Emirgan Sutis 4037-5287 German Doner Kebab 4464-1179 Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café 4408-0840 Kunafa Albisana. 4408-1200 Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma 4466-2616 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul 4436-2947 Shawarma Albisana 4408-1400 Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 4408-2000 Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 Turkey Central 4443-2927 Wafi Gourmet 4486 4747

Parisa Souq Waqif

CHINESE Chopsticks D’Chopstix Hakkasan Royal Bafilyon Ruby Wu’s Wok of Fame

4434-3333 4408-4888 4446-0170 4411-4458 4428-1428 4413-4772

CONTEMPORARY EUROPEAN Aroma Astor Grill Belgian Café Gordon Ramsay La Mer Market by Jean-Georges Nando’s Delivery Hotline Opal by Gordon Ramsay Panorama

4405-3325 4446-0105 4484-4444 4446-0105 4484-8000 4453-5135 4436-0606 4446-0105 4446-5600

FRENCH La Sahtaine La Varenne Le Relais de L’Entrecote Maxim Sormani The French Olive

4423-3333 4499-0680 4495-3876 Ext. 1411 4428-1428 4495-3876 Ext. 3222 4444-4777

INDIAN Biryani Hut Bombay Balti Chingari Royal Indian Royal Tandoor Al Souq St., Jasra Souq Waqif Saffron Lounge Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor Sukh Sagar Taj Rasoi

4464-1401 4428-1428 4428-1428 4466-6876 4444-6151 4432-3244 3325-8919 4019-8877 4431-9172 4429-8888

Al Hubara 4485-3000 Al Liwan Restaurant 4424-2888 Baraha 4447-0000 Shakespeare and Co. 6676-8812 Choices 4402-3333 Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo 4424-7777 Crossroads Kitchen 4419-6100 Eggspectation 5040-9900 Elements 4494-8888 Flying Carpet 4446-5600 Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 Lagenda 4408-4220 Mawasem 4423-3333 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Panorama 4446-5600 4445-8888 Olive Oil Pool Bar 4429-5000 Pool Grill 4494-8600 Seasonal Tastes 4492-1555 Sridan 4429-5000 The Grill 4448-1234 The Lagoon 4484-8000 The Village Souq Waqif 3331-1558 Three Sixty 4446-5600 4446-5600 Torch Tea Garden Vine 4446-0105

ITALIAN Antica Pesa Doha 4035-5011 Biella 4421-0025 Carluccio’s 4495-3876 Cucina 4419-6100 Di Capri 4428-8698 II Teatro 4494-8888 La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant 4436-7991 La Spiga by Paper Moon 4453-5135 La Veranda 4485-3000 le Vesuvio 4408-1500 Paper Moon 4016-6000 Porcini 4484-8000 Rocca 4448-1272 The French Olive 4444-4777 The Italian Job 4428-1428

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Olive Oil City Centre Rotana Double Tree Hilton Hotel Doha

JAPANESE Neo 4432-2508 Nobu 4494-8600 Nozomi 4035-5089 Oishi Sushi 4442-8989 Sakura 4428-1428 Strata Restaurant & Lounge 4015-8888 4467-5577 Sushi Minto Megu 4495-3876, Ext: 2101 Yen Sushi Bar 4428-8888

MEDITERRANEAN Aramede 4408-7777 Bistro Bistro 4428-1428 La Villa 4446-2222 Le Central Restaurant 4428-8888 4444-4700 Medi @ The Village Mykonos 4484-4444 Sawa 4035-5555 The Cellar 4402-3333

PERSIAN Grill @ The Village 4444-4700 Parisa 4425-6666 Prince Of Persia 4015-0190.

SOUTHEAST ASIAN Asia Live! 4429-8888 Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077 Al Khor Mall 4411-8817 Salwa Road 4437-1212 Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Isaan 4448-1250 Mango Tree 4495-3876 Nusantao: Sea Kitchens 4494-8888 Spice Market 4453-5353 Sri Kebaya 4434-0838 The Noodle House City Center Mall 4411-5063 The Pearl 4002-7512 Landmark 4417-5682

BAR FOOD Belgian Café Library & Cigar Lounge Madison Piano Bar Pool Bar Shehrazad The Irish Harp The Lounge Wahm

4484-4444 4494-8600 4428-8888 4484-4444 4428-1428 4485-4444 4405-3325 4453-5353

AMERICAN & BURGERS American Grill 4411-0188 Burgeri 4449-3958. Chili’s 4466-0663 4483-3983 Fuddruckers Hardee’s 4467-8750 Johnny Rockets 4455-2792 Lord of The Wings 4417 4366 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443-7846 4488-7008 TGI Friday’s

SEAFOOD Almaskar 4485-3000 Al Dana 4425-6666 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Balmesan 4441-2001 Fish Market 4484-4444 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710 Pier 12 4428-1428 Yabby 4429-5000

STEAKHOUSES Bentley’s Grill Fuego JW’s Steakhouse Le Grill New York Steakhouse Prime The Anvil Rooms Toro Toro Doha

4428-1428 4429-5000 4429-8888 4484-7412 4419-6100 4015-8888 4499-0685 4035-5101

Sabai Thai Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

CAFÉS Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Allegria 4485-3000 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Arabica 4494-8600 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 Atrium 4424-7777 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 4448-1282 Biscotti Café Murano 4035-5555 Caramel Lounge 4445-8888 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 4436-1789 Le Gourmet Lobby Lounge 4429-5000 Luxe Lounge 4492-1555 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Monte's 4499-0689 Orangery Café Trottoir 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Seasons Tea Lounge 4494-8600 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge 4402-3333 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Café 4446-5600 Vitamine Café 4035-5011 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

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SPORTS

Top Picks

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Beach Volleyball Championship

September 30th: After the successful Beach Volleyball Championship hosted in May 2016, Sharq Village and Spa will host its second Beach Volleyball Championship of the year. More than fifteen teams will compete and all proceeds from the event will go to Step-by-Step school to support children with special needs.

ST. REGIS DOHA The St. Regis Recreation Package Take advantage of our unmissable EID special deal! Enrol into a one-year lifestyle membership and get three months extra! You will also receive two additional months on your lifestyle membership, three complimentary room nights in one of our superior rooms, five complimentary accesses to a private cabana, and five restaurant vouchers valued at QR 300 each. That’s not all! We will also give you ten Remede Spa vouchers valued at QR 100 each, 20% off food and beverage, and 20% off Remede spa treatments! For more information, contact us on 4446-0304 or email recreation.doha@stregis.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Zumba Step

Saturdays: The Bay Club. Take lower body workouts and calorie burning to new heights with Zumba® Step, the newest Zumba® program. Tone and strengthen glutes and legs with a gravity-defying blend of Zumba routines and step aerobics. From 5:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. Members only QR 35. Non-members QR 60.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Fitness Classes

Ongoing: Health Club. There are numerous fitness classes available, including Abs, Bootcamp, Pilates, Power Balance, Zumba, Yoga and High Intensity Interval Training. Classes start from QR 85 per person. Please check with the hotel for exact monthly schedules. For more information, call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit us at www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Resort Day Pass Access

Daily: Sheraton Health & Recreation Centre. Get access to this amazing resort for only QR 250 on weekdays or QR 350 on weekends.

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SPORTS

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Words and images by Hannah Varley

In today’s busy world of meetings, traffic jams and constant emails, it’s sometimes easy to just come home from work, flop on the sofa and spend the evening watching TV. Unfortunately, all this rushing about and constant ‘on the go’ lifestyle is slowly taking its toll on our bodies and minds, but there is something we can do to help ourselves – and this is where yin yoga comes in.

any of us look at images of yogis meditating and wonder how they find the time to look all happy and relaxed. However, it really isn’t that difficult once you start your yin yoga journey. People often say ‘I’m not flexible enough’ or ‘I don’t have time for yoga’ but after just a few classes, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make time for yoga sooner. Research shows that practising yoga for just an hour a week can have a massive impact on your lifestyle, flexibility and sleep patterns. Slowly but surely, once a week can turn into twice a week and before you know it, yoga becomes a habit. So what’s the deal with yin yoga? Well firstly, it’s a passive form of yoga. You don’t tense your muscles and it’s important to be relaxed. Other forms of yoga, such as vinyasa or ashtanga, are known as yang activities, as they require more energy and involve tensing your muscles. Yin, in contrast, is the opposite, and it’s important for all of us to unwind from time to time. In yang styles of yoga, the primary aim is to stretch out the muscles, whereas in yin the poses are held for over a minute, and sometimes up to five minutes. This is because yin aims to reach the connective tissues surrounding and connecting the muscles to joints. Holding poses for a longer period of time in a relaxed way can help get deep into the stretch and strengthen the tissues around the joints. It is thought that yin yoga helps regenerate the bones, so people with osteoporosis can benefit greatly from regular yin practice. Another great thing about yin yoga is that it’s accessible to almost everyone. With passive poses, mainly on the floor and with easy-to-remember names such as butterfly or sleeping swan, there’s no time for confusion. With all the props available, such as bolsters, blankets, blocks and straps, everyone in the class can reach their goal in one way or another. In my classes, I demonstrate a pose, but not everyone will do it in exactly the same way, as all students are different. Therefore each and every student in the class stretching the same part of the body but may be in totally different positions and using the props in many different ways. I always reassure my students that this is perfectly fine. As long as you are feeling the stretch in the target areas.

Yin yoga can also be used as a meditative practice. By tuning into sights, smells and sounds, there’s plenty to focus on to help those thoughts of work and your busy day drift away. By holding the poses for 1-5 minutes each, there’s plenty of time for selfreflection and mindfulness. Whether you choose to tune into your thoughts or zone out, it’s totally up to you. It’s your time! Yin yoga is closely connected to Chinese medicine, which promotes the idea that all our bodies contain energy pathways called ‘meridians’. Sitting at a desk or driving, among other things, can block our meridians, and yin yoga is one way we can release the blockages and begin to self-heal. Unblocking our meridians during yin practise can sometimes release deep emotions. Tension in our back and hips is often released during a yin class, and it’s not unusual for participants to feel emotional during a class. This is perfectly normal and a great way to free your mind. The key is to observe, breathe deeply and let those thoughts and emotions pass through. It’s all part of the healing process for your body, mind and soul.

Benefits Of Yin Yoga: • Calms and balances the mind and body • Regulates energy in the body • Increases mobility in the body, especially the joints and hips • Lowers stress levels • Increases stamina • Better lubrication and protection of joints • More flexibility in joints and connective tissue • Releases fascia throughout the body • Helps you to relax • Helps you deal with anxiety and stress • Improves ability to sit for meditation So what are you waiting for? If a yin yoga class involving candles, calming lavender, cosy blankets and soothing music sounds good, drop into a yin class at Yama Yoga Studios. n Hannah Varley teaches yin yoga on Mondays at 8:00 p.m. at Yama Yoga Studios, Asas Towers, West Bay, Doha. Private classes also available. For more information email pose.pointe.play@gmail.com

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Healthy Lifestyle Tips For Kids Words by Jonathan Roberts

With many children today reportedly less active than previous generations, it has become even more important to monitor your child’s health and activities. This month, the wellness experts at EVOLVE –Mind/Body/ Soul tell us how to keep your child health and happy. Nutrition Balanced Meals To ensure your children are getting the necessary vitamins and minerals they need to grow and learn, it is important that they consume a variety of foods from different food groups. Fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods are of utmost importance. Foods such as meats, fish, whole grain bread, nuts and dairy products are key when it comes to getting in the correct amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. By simply tracking what you are feeding your child on a daily basis can help ensure they’re benefiting from a varied diet.

Regular meals: Children are growing and are very active, and to keep up with their nutritional demands they need to eat regularly throughout the day. Make sure they eat three main meals and two snacks per day. Breakfast  The most important meal of the day for a child is breakfast. In the morning, their bodies need to refuel for the day ahead. When waking up after a good 8-10 hours of sleep, their moods and energy levels are greatly affected. By feeding them a good breakfast, this will ensure them being ready to take on the day ahead. Lunch Children struggle to focus when hunger strikes. Having a good meal a couple of hours after breakfast will raise your child’s blood sugar levels and re-energize their bodies and minds when focus and concentration are being lost. You can ensure this by providing them with a packed lunch that you have full control of. Dinner Dinner is important because it is the last meal your child will eat before they sleep. When sleeping, your body is in recovery mode, muscles are repaired and growth takes place so it is important that your child goes to sleep with the necessary nutrition in their bodies.

Snacks If your child starts to get hungry between meals and is in need of a snack; boost their energy levels with a healthy serving of fruit, nuts, yoghurt or a healthy sandwich. The timing of snack consumption is important to ensure it doesn't interfere with a child's appetite for the next scheduled meal, be careful you are not over feeding your child and encouraging constant eating.

Encouraging Healthy Habits We all know the saying "monkey see, monkey do". Younger children learn more by imitating their parent’s actions. Swap Soda & Juices For Water Swapping out soda and juices will minimise your child’s refined sugar intake and therefore contribute to your child’s good health. This begins with learning – try to showcase the benefit of choosing healthy, over sugary. Limit TV & Video Game Time Limit your children’s screen time to no more than two hours per day. Forming a habit of sitting in front of a screen all day leads to excessive snacking and laziness. Rather, encourage activities or join a swim club as a family etc.

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Encouraging Physical Activity & Playing Encourage your child to try different sports and physical activities on a regular basis is extremely important. Whether it's playing hide and seek with friends or going for a bike ride. Getting them out of the house and active is something that should be done on a regular basis. Activities Do more activities with your children. Go for walks together, ride bikes, go swimming, play in the garden or just play hide-and-seek outside. Everyone will benefit from the exercise and time together. Family Habits Do more activities as a family. Children like to mimic what their parents do. By doing more activities as a family your children will learn to enjoy it more. Lead By Example From when you wake up to when you put your head on the pillow at night, you are being watched – children tend to mimic the habits they are subjected to on a daily basis. Smoking, being inactive and mismanaging stress will negatively affect your child if you let it. Recognise this, so that you may portray good traits to your young ones. Time To Make a Change  It is important to monitor your child’s development and health. More and more children are suffering from obesity nowadays due to many factors. It is of the utmost importance that parents know what their children eat and ensure their children are living a healthy and active lifestyle. Obese children are at risk of a number of conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, early heart disease, diabetes and skin conditions such as heat rash and acne. Making a change in your child’s life through exercise, healthy eating, family activities and positive reinforcement can drastically improve not only their health but also their social wellbeing. Obesity and serious conditions can sometimes also lead to excessive bullying and social exclusion. Mental Empowerment Teach your children that living healthy is a lifestyle choice and that will always be in their best interests. Encourage your children to make the right decision in life. By socialising with like-minded friends (friends interested in sport or other healthy habits) will always give your child that edge and make them more prone to doing the right thing. Encourage your children to be target driven. Setting themselves targets will provide a guideline for them to achieve their best at whatever they put their minds to. n Get yourself on track to optimal health by learning more about EVOLVE –Mind/Body/Soul’s services. For more information visit www.evolvemindbodysoul.com or email info@evolvemindbodysoul.com

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SPORTS

Listings All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

QH RECOMMENDS

Bodylines Low Tide Bronze Membership Offer

Ongoing: Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club. 50% discount on published regular membership tariff with one or two weeks extension period based on membership type. Membership Highlights: Access to gym, steam, sauna, Jacuzzi and swimming pool from 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. 20% discount on food & beverage, massage, and spa treatments (conditions apply). Discount on swimming lessons, personal training. Offer valid until 31st December 2016.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Spinning Class Daily: Sheraton Health & Recreation Center. Cycle your way towards fitness for only QR 50 per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4600, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Watersports

Daily: Numerous watersport activities are available at the private beach of Marsa Malaz Kempinski, including mastercraft boat rides, pedal boats, kayaking, wake boarding, water skiing and donut rides. Prices start from QR 70 per person. For more information, contact 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Hit The FLow Surfing Competition

September 24: Splash Surf Pool. Competitors will get the chance to showcase their surfing skills in Doha’s first standing wave machine. From 4.00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Only QR 300 per person. Over 18s only. Reserve your place by 2.00 p.m. on Friday 23 September. Excellent prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Call 4040-5050 for more information.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

Tuesdays: Participants will be working against gravity using their own body weight and TRX equipment to complete a series of exercises. It helps to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. Prices from QR 35 for members, to QR 60 for non-members. From 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Boxing Fitness

Fridays: This class combines the principles of boxing such as basic punching, defending and foot work with cardio exercises specific for boxing training. Participants will develop co-ordination, balance and control. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. Members only QR 35. Non-members pay QR 60.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Tennis

Daily: Make use of their outdoor tennis court on the island grounds, with private or group lessons from the coaches. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

The Gym

Daily: The Health Club. A state-of- the-art space with female-only and mixed fitness areas, the latest Technogym equipment, two fitness group studios, a personal training studio and male and female wet relaxation areas. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

ORYX ROTANA Bodylines Regular Membership Offer Ongoing: Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club. Up to 30% discount on 6-month to 1-year membership tariff with one week to one month free extension period based on membership type. Membership Highlights: 24x7 access to gym, steam, sauna, and Jacuzzi. Pool access from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. 20% discount on food & beverages, massage and spa treatments (conditions apply). Discount on swimming lessons, personal training. Offer valid until 31st December 2016.

Bodylines Low Tide Silver Membership Offer

Ongoing: Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club. 35% discount on published regular membership tariff with one or two weeks extension period based on membership type. Membership Highlights: Access to gym, steam, sauna, and Jacuzzi. From 8:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m. till 5:00 a.m. Pool access from 8:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. 20% discount on food & beverages, massage, and spa treatments (conditions apply). Discount on swimming lessons, personal training. Offer valid until 31st December 2016.

Martial Arts / Aikido, Kids Aikido and Youths Aikido

Wednesday, Friday & Saturday: Fitness Centre. Join in Sheraton Fitness for aikido classes at QR 70 for kids and QR 80 for adults per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

Les Mills Classes Daily: Sheraton Health & Recreation Center. Try out Body Pump, Body Attack, RPM, CX Work, Body Balance & Body Step for only QR 50 a class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4600, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

THE GRAND HYATT No Excuses

Ongoing: Jaula Club. It’s a new season and a new you! So whether you’ve vowed to pump more iron this year or just tone up those abs for bikini season, trust Jaula Club to be there for you, motivating you and helping you to achieve the results you’re looking for. As well as this, sign up for any kind of membership and get one month free. Please call 4448-1060 for bookings and enquires.

Lunch, Pool and Beach

Daily: Jaula Club. Sea, sun and sand! It is summer time, and Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas is offering the perfect summer package: Spend the day at the beach and pools and enjoy lunch at Rocca. The price is QR 250 from Sunday to Thursday or QR 300 on Friday or Saturday. For children 4 to 15 years old, the price is only QR150. Make every day beach day! Call 4448-1060 for bookings and enquires.

Swimming Classes

Ongoing: Jaula Club. Swimming gives you the confidence of a healthy lifestyle. Give your kids the opportunity to attend Jaula’s swimming classes priced at QR 75 for members and in-house guests, and QR 85 for non-members. Please call 4448-1060 for bookings and enquires.

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Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net Gondolania Bowling Center (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162

Golf

The Doha Golf Club 4496-0777 or www.dohagolfclub.com

Horse Riding

Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857 Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 or qatarracing@gmail.com Al Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 or www.alshaqab.com

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162 Gondolania Ice Arena (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com

Sailing

Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 or www.qmsf.com Regatta Sailing Academy 4442-4577 or www.regattasailingacademy.com Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com

Swimming

Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa Aqua Park 4490-5872 or aquaparkqa@gmail.com

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

Park at Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche The Pearl-Qatar (2.5 km) Aspire Park

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QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

ORYX ROTANA Massage & Spa Treatments

Daily: Relax your body at the hands of professional therapists. Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club offers a choice of Swedish Massage, Thai Massage (female only) or Balinese or Deep Tissue, Aroma and Reflexology, Back & Shoulder Massage and Indian Head massage. Get a package of four with a 60-minute massage QR 900 (members) or QR 1000 (non-members).

GRAND HYATT Treatment Of The Day Jaula Spa. Escape from your busy routine and enjoy 20% discount on the follow days below: Sunday: Relax with our famous 60 minute Jaula Calm Mind Massage. Monday: take pleasure in the Hot Stone Massage. Tuesday: Energize with the Jaula Detox. Please call 4448-1056 for bookings and enquires.

SHANGRI LA HOTEL Special Health Club Promotion

September: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this special health club offer. Register during the last two weeks of the month and get an exclusive monthly rate of QR 1500. Email chi.sldh@shangri-la.com, or call 4429-5000 for further information.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Uplifting Downtime THE ST. REGIS DOHA Youth Diamond Facial

Upon request: Create a new look and natural glow with SilkPeel Dermalinfusion. Experience the essence of youthful skin with the specially designed treatment. The unique facial uses a cutting-edge diamond-tipped vacuum technology to lift, exfoliate plump up fine lines, minimize pigmentation and clarify pore congestion. Your skin will feel instantly hydrated with improved firmness and a noticeable lift. QR 1,020 (30 minutes) (purchase three to get 40% discount). From 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For reservations call 4446-0300 or email remedespa.doha@stregis.com.

Daily: Heavenly Spa. Treat yourself to an experience that awakens your senses. From invigorating massages to access to Westin Workout Fitness Studio as well as a selection of treatments specifically designed for men or your little ones, guests are certain to leave looking and feeling their best. From 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more details, visit www.heavenlyspadoha.com, email heavenlyspa.doha@westin.com or call 4492-1680.

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QH SENSATIONS

Old World Charm Words by Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of The Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

The Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha is one of the more unique hotels of Doha. Resembling an old British aristocratic country estate, QH couldn't wait to don its top hat and head straight to Aspire Zone for a special two day staycation. Day One Everything Seems Better After A Cup Of Tea It’s a super humid afternoon (the worst of the summer so far) when we arrive for our one night staycation experience, a sense of relief washes over me as we enter the air conditioned lobby and cool down. It soon becomes quite clear that we’ve stepped back in time. The elegant Victorian lobby instantly reminds me of those old British period dramas with their exquisite decor and elegant excesses.

We enter the Victoria Tea Lounge which resembles an old study and try some of the best cheesecake in town! (a must try, trust me) and some soothing tea from a menu with a vast array of choices.

We are greeted by the delightfully friendly Al Aziziyah Marketing Executive, Miss. Anastasiya Abrmovich who suggests that we ‘acclimatise’ with a spot of tea. Having grown up in the UK, I immediately take her up on the kind offer.

Then we move onto the check-in which is swift and pleasant. With time on our hands, Anastasiya shows us around and explains that the hotel is now run by the Swiss hospitality company - Mövenpick and has therefore changed its name to better represent the local area, which is known to locals as Al Aziziyah.

The Property The Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha is situated within the world-class sports and lifestyle destination of Aspire Zone, and is just a short walk from the luxurious Villaggio Mall. In addition, Doha’s Hamad International Airport is just 30 minutes away. The Room After a very long week, entering the beautifully appointed room brings instant relief. I’m reminded of my boarding school days, and taking in the view

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Agora is a meeting place where one can enjoy authentic Ottoman cuisine with friends or family

of the perfectly manicured Aspire football pitches has me temporarily thinking that I am back in rural England once more. For those who need their coffee fix, don’t fret, the rooms comes with a Nespresso coffeemaker, which I took full advantage of. There is also a 40-inch TV, mini bar and free WiFi. What more could one want? After freshening up, my wife and I head straight to Agora, the Al Aziziyah's authentic Turkish restaurant. It offers a contemporary Turkish dining experience that is inspired by the Ottoman imperial era. The restaurant t soon started to fill up and the prices, I found, were pretty reasonable. The food itself was delicious with generous servings and the general atmosphere and service were most pleasant. I will certainly be going back very soon, that’s for sure.

Day Two Our day started with breakfast at Flavours, their all-day buffet dinning outlet. I made my way straight to the omelette and scrambled eggs station, and added some beef bacon and sausages; whilst my wife opted for freshly made pancakes and some then Danish pastries. Then we finished it off with fresh fruits, and yoghurts. The breakfast buffet can be enjoyed for QR 135 per person. This was then followed by a truly relaxing signature massage at the spa, I was pampered for an hour and a half. The massage was just perfect and I think I fell asleep a few times, which to me, is the sign of a good massage. There is also a fabulous fitness centre and an indoor swimming pool, with separate male and female

ecake Find some of Doha's best chees at the Victoria Tea Lounge, not to mention a some great teas

saunas, steam rooms and a Jacuzzi. For me, the indoor swimming pool was a nice touch as it isn’t something you find in many of the hotels here in Doha, so even in the winter, you can still take full advantage. For lunch, be sure not to miss the sumptuous steaks and sushi at Blue restaurant, with great views over Aspire Zone and some truly spectacular choices of fish from the buffet, I was happy as could be. The waiting staff was very attentive and the food was what you would expect from a five-star hotel. Simply perfect. All Good Things Must Come To An End From the welcoming ambiance in the lobby to their 139 exquisite rooms and suites; a stay at this hotel was a truly wonderful experience. The staff were very friendly, the room was amply sized and very elegant, the food options were varied and of a high quality and of course, the hotel’s sublime location next to Aspire Park was the icing on the cake for me. I can highly recommend that you visit the Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha. To me, it almost felt like an escape to the country and one that was most welcome. n

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA Location: Aspire Zone, Doha Prices: • Agora: QR 149 per person • Flavours: QR 159 per person • Blue: QR 215 Contact Info: Call 4445-5500 or visit www.movenpick.com/en/middle-east/qatar/ doha/al-aziziyah-doha

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QH SENSATIONS

Words and selected images by Francesca Cruz

Listed as one of the top destinations in the world by travel writers, Cambodia is a land that will touch your heart as you fall in love with this fascinating Southeast Asian nation. QH took a trip to the town of Siem Reap, the gateway to the ruins of Angkor Wat which was the seat of the Khmer kingdom from the 9th-15th centuries.

ne of the first things that stand out upon arriving at the town of Siem Reap, Cambodia, is the lingering scent of lemongrass—it seems to be everywhere. Growing wild, it’s in the incense & candles you’ll find sold in markets, in the local tea, in the perfumes—it sort of wafts and embraces you upon arrival. I’m not complaining, just the opposite, the zesty woody aroma evokes tranquillity and is very pleasant indeed.

Located in the north-western part of the country, Siem Reap is a tranquil yet popular tourist destination. It is the departure point for many travellers interested in exploring the Angkor region, and the ruins of the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia spanning back to the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th century. The ruins are about a 20-minute drive from Siem Reap. I recommend setting out early in the morning to see the temples and countless sculptures with the sunrise as your backdrop. It's a global communal pilgrimage that makes for the full experience of this part of Cambodia. Make sure to pack sunscreen and take bottled water with you. It’s not an arduous walk—more of a comfortable walk, with a little bit of effort, but the distance under the sun is what can be energy sapping. You can purchase entrance tickets from most hotels, or online and I do recommend getting them in advance to avoid the long lines. Other temples and archaeological sites to visit whilst in Cambodia are: Ta Prohm—made famous by Angelina Jolie and the movie Tomb Raider. Phnom Bakheng which is recognized for its jaw droppingly

beautiful sunsets, but only 300 visitors are permitted at a time so you need to arrive by 4 p.m.; and the 10th century temple of Banteay Srei made of red clay and more intricate carvings, the latter is an hour’s drive from the city, but well worth it. Another great way to dive into this city’s vast mélange of cultures is to spend the day at the Cambodian Cultural Village. Resembling a theme park and museum, it features miniature villages representing the many local cultures of Cambodia. A definite must is to explore the floating villages of Kompong Phluk and Kompong Kleang that sit on the massive Tonle Sap freshwater lake. Take a ride on a makeshift boat with a local down the Tonle Lake. The majority of the lake’s inhabitants are fishermen who live in basic conditions and depend on the lake for their livelihood. It is the best way to see and understand the landscape and people of Cambodia. Head to the hustle & bustle of the old market, known as the Psar Chaa Market. Teeming with souvenir shops, local handicrafts, silverware, woodcarvings,

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Angkor Wat Temple Complex

Ta Prohm Temple, Angkor, Cambodia

Coconut Fish Curry

region’s acclaimed schools. Learn to make famed coconut fish curry inspired by the country’s rich culinary heritage. The best part of this epicurean tour is that you get to feast on your creation in the company of your fellow foodies. If you prefer to have someone else prepare the food and you gobble it up, sign up for a three-hour evening tour of Siem Reap’s street food district. These groups are usually eight to 12 individuals in number and involve climbing on board a motorised rickshaw that zips across town, allowing you to delve into the curb-side fare with an expert Cambodian food guide.

Lemongrass Tea

The town of Siem Reap is rich in history, with a lush jungle to match, and gregarious, generous people, that despite past wars, setbacks and poverty, are kind and welcoming. The floating village of Kompong Phluk

and of course, you’ll find decorative Buddhas in every shape imaginable. There are plenty of trinkets to take back as mementoes. And if you’re hungry, pull up a chair at one of the many noodle shops and eat like a king for virtually nothing. While at the Psar Chaa Market, pick up some herbs, as you get ready to indulge in the flavours of Cambodian gastronomy with a local chef. Sign up for a four-hour Khmer cooking class at one of the

One does need a visa to travel here, but you can purchase it at the airport upon arrival (depending on your nationality), or apply online before you even travel. No need to worry about changing money, although the official currency is the Riel, the Dollar is the unofficial second currency and accepted everywhere. The only other consideration left, is to ask yourself, am I ready to fall in love with Cambodia? n For more information on Cambodia visit www.tourismcambodia.org

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QH SENSATIONS

Across The River Clyde Words and selected images by John Hunt

After London, the most popular UK tourist destination is Edinburgh. While the Scottish capital’s attractions are many, just 50 km to the west lies Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, and one with a completely different vibe. QH checks out this tribal city and learns about its rich history.

he first and best-value purchase we made were a pair of tickets for the Glasgow City Sightseeing hop on, hop off bus tour which goes around the town, with 21 stops in total. Some buses have live commentary, some recorded – with info about Glasgow and its attractions. The full loop of the city takes in all of the top sites. Cost is QR 62 and worth it. Jump on and off the bus as you please. One of the ‘must-sees’ is the Riverside Museum of Transport (free). It’s a multi-award winning museum located on the banks of the River Clyde, with over 3,000 objects on display from Glasgow’s rich past. You will find an incredible array of objects from skateboards and vintage cars to prams and locomotives. You can even walk down an old cobbled Glasgow street with shops dating from 1895 to the

1980s. Berthed outside you will find the ‘Tall Ship’ Glenlee, the UK’s only floating Clyde-built sailing ship. Back on the bus and into the city centre, to the Gallery of Modern Art (free). Housed in an elegant 18th-century neoclassical building, there are four floors showcasing a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, print, photography and installations. I must confess, I’ve been here many times before and it’s always impressed. Glasgow Science Centre (QR 52) is mostly aimed at families and packed with interactive exhibits. Not your usual ‘historical’ science museum but more, an activity centre for young ones to explore science in a way they can easily understand. There is also a live planetarium show (additional fee). A little bit pricey for what it was, especially if you’ve been to London’s superlative – and free – Science Museum. Also at the centre is the Glasgow Tower (admission QR 16.50 extra). The Glasgow Tower is the only structure on earth capable of rotating 360° into the prevailing wind. At 127 metres high, it’s also Scotland’s tallest building and a great place to get a pic of the city. One of Glasgow’s most famous sons is the worldrenowned artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The following day, I took Mackintosh’s Glasgow Walking Tour (QR 93) which is a two-hour stroll through the streets of the city centre. Guided by current students

at the Glasgow School of Art, you will discover Mackintosh’s impressive city centre designs, his lesser-known architectural gems and buildings by his contemporaries working in the acclaimed ‘Glasgow Style’ Art Nouveau. You don’t need to be an architect to appreciate this – its art in building form, and well worth the money. For football lovers, the city is home to famous old rivals Celtic and Rangers. Neither side is particularly good in European terms, but matches between the two are worth attending for the ‘adversarial’ atmosphere alone. If you do travel to Glasgow – which certainly got a ‘thumbs up’ from me – then try and see if you can synchronise it with a Rangers v. Celtic game. I only scratched the surface of what there is to see and do in Glasgow, but what I did experience was enough to convince me that Glasgow is worth visiting. Also worthy of mention is the excellent shopping – which beats Edinburgh hands down!

Where To Stay Our home for our three-night stay was the Glasgow Hilton, a five-star property on the western fringe of the city centre. It’s the tallest hotel in the city and, having recently been refurbished, arguably the smartest. I didn’t make it to the top floor where the suites are, but I was in an Executive King room on

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the 18th floor, which was very nice: roomy, well furnished had a powerful shower, big flat-screen TV and free and fast Wi-Fi. The executive room also gave us access to the executive lounge on the ground floor. Also on the ground floor is a Treatment Spa and in the basement a large pool and Jacuzzi. On one night, my wife and I dined in the hotel and it was delicious – fresh, flavoursome, unpretentious cooking with a twist of class (brioche burger for me, chicken breast and spring rolls for her) followed by a large chocolate fondant, and washed down with a house beverage. The buffet breakfast was equally impressive, with a massive selection including the ever-welcome ‘omelette station’. It’s fair to say we enjoyed our stay enormously. n

Luxurious and stylish interiors uplift one's soul

Shop till you drop!

Prices for a double B&B start from QR 870 per night. Visit www.hiltonglasgow.co.uk for more information. Emirates flies daily to Glasgow via Dubai from QR 1,925 return.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

A Room With a View As told to Antony D. Antoniou

The Iconic Torch Doha is a hotel like no other, situated at 300 m high with 360° panoramic views across the city and located in the serene splendour of the Aspire Zone, QH takes to the sky and experiences a unique five-star experience.

he hotel’s concept and interior design are captivating for the high-end traveller. The rooms with their state-of-the-art features such as the new iPad solution, LED TV with extensive entertainment options keeps guests happily captivated.

Of course, swimming at height in a cantilevered pool is always an experience to savour, followed by a special retreat to their magnificent Health Club. It offers superb high-end gym facilities which mean that the Torch Doha is the perfect place to combine sports and leisure. Conveniently connected to Doha's largest shopping mall - Villaggio via a suspended private air-conditioned walkway and with access to numerous Aspire Zone facilities, visitors have plenty to do and see. The hotel offers a signature combination of modern meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art video conferencing technology and unique design. Whether it is a launch of a brand, business meeting or a large corporate event, their dedicated team of conference and banqueting specialists will ensure every detail is met and surpassed.

The Torch Doha prides itself on the calibre of its cuisine. Talented Chefs offer a sophisticated experience drawn from the very best international flavours of their award-winning restaurants:

Flying Carpet It’s an all-day dining restaurant, which features international cuisine with themed nights and live cooking stations. A la carte dishes are available upon request. The restaurant offers daily breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. It has received a TripAdvisor 2016 Certificate of Excellence which is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding guest reviews on TripAdvisor.

Three Sixty Located on the 47th floor, Three Sixty is Doha’s only revolving restaurant and offers breathtaking views

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One of Doha’s most iconic buildings, a trip to the Torch Doha is a pleasure in itself

Carpets really do fly, its seems!

Torch Tea Garden High-end tea lounge overlooking Aspire Park and the Doha skyline. Serves afternoon tea, an exclusive selection of tea, cheese fondue, salads, sandwiches & crepes, homemade snacks and miniature sweets. Open daily from 3:00 p.m. of the city. It has received a TripAdvisor 2013 Certificate of Excellence and recently nominated for the 2017 World Luxury Restaurant Awards. Open daily for lunch 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. It’s a Mediterranean & Italian restaurant that offers a set menu featuring signature gourmet burgers, salads, desserts & main courses.

Panorama International seafood restaurant with spectacular panoramic views of Doha. Panorama introduces a chic combination of seafood cuisine from around the world, where the Chef emphasises on seasonal produce and high-quality ingredients. Due to open mid-September from Wednesday through Saturday for dinner, opening from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Sky Lounge Their concept is glamorous/chic and tasty. They handcraft artisanal chocolates and pastries with a focus on quality and the integrity of their ingredients. The Sky Lounge welcomes chocoholics, friends, families and private gatherings. Located on the 51st floor of the hotel. Open Monday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until midnight.

Kufic & Almas Lounge Trendy and with a remarkable design which is illuminated with natural sunlight, it's ideal for business meetings or social gatherings. The outlet offers a Chef’s selection of bites, pastry treats and a choice of coffee or tea. n Website: www.thetorchdoha.com Contact: Call 4446-5600/5800

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QH SENSATIONS Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Photography by Jessie Palanca

Are you going to a wedding, an important event or simply want to look fabulous? Well, QH went to check out Bliss Spa at the W Doha Hotel & Residences to see what it takes to look a million dollars as we tried the now Hollywood Facial.

he Hollywood facial is the newest facial to arrive in Doha and can only be found at Bliss Spa.

Bliss Spa opened in 2009 and has been a big hit with locals and expats alike. I am warmly welcomed into a friendly, fresh and funky space. The reception area looks like something out of a sci-fi novel with amazing ceiling lights, sleek adornments and cool blue hues to put you at ease. Bliss has made sure that they keep up to date with current trends and provide their therapists with constant training on a yearly basis so that you, the customer can experience some of the newest and best treatments available. The Spa uses its own specially crafted range of products but also offers Remede and HydraFacial MD® products too. I was greeted by Jade, my therapist for the day; she hails from the UK and was very friendly and helpful throughout my visit. She assists me to my treatment room and explains to me what the Hollywood facial will entail. She tells me it’s one of their most popular treatments at the moment. The treatment I will be having was suggested by Bliss Spa Director Burju Toba Duzguner and the Bliss Facial Team. They assured me that it will help to brighten up my face immediately. Jade explained to me that the Hollywood Facial is perfect for those who have a special event to attend and want their skin to glow. I lay down on a very comfortable warm bed and my treatment begins. The ambience is relaxed and I can hear pleasant music which puts me at ease. Its official, I am ready to enjoy my Californian luxury treatment. We begin with the facial which is a 30% glycolic peel to even out the skin tone and smooth the outer layers of skin. I’m so relaxed and enjoying every single step. Jade tells me that next is a vitamin facial massage to increase blood flow and hence, general circulation. During the massage, I almost fell asleep. I was so relaxed. Our massage is then followed by the LED mask, which to me resembles The Phantom Of The Opera Mask. However, the mask uses three different light treatments. The red light helps fight the signs of ageing; the blue light is for oily skin or acne and the green for pigmentation. We focus on the red light which increases the collagen in my skin, producing a tightening effect.

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Welcome to the Starship Bliss!

Top quality products are the only kind you will find at Bliss Spa

With my eyes closed, I start to experience the mask. I’m not sure if it’s me or Bliss Spa but I am ready to sleep. Apart from my face I also receive a relaxing massage on my arms. Maybe that explains why I was so ready to doze off. All Bliss facials also include a facial massage, which by the way, is truly sublime. The final mask that I have to put on is a Koreaninspired sheet mask containing vitamins and hyaluronic acid which plumps out fine lines and increases hydration. I can’t stop thinking about what I will look like after the Hollywood facial. Hopefully like an A-list star! Then, just when I think it’s over, Jade tells me that she has one more trick up her sleeve. The facial ends with the Bliss oxygen spray which is very pleasant and refreshing. I have to confess that it was a little ticklish, though. My treatment finished and I can honestly say that my skin felt different, smooth and fresh. Side note -After having the Hollywood facial treatment, it is recommended that you don’t do any hair removal treatments or tanning on your face for two to three days. Also, after the glycolic peel, the skin will need to be protected from the sun, so SPF 15+ is a must!

I really had a Hollywood experience and I’m looking forward to my next one ASAP. I was told that its best to have this facial maximum twice per month, spaced two weeks apart, however, this facial needs to be booked in advance as it's extremely popular. n BLISS SPA Location: 2nd floor, W Doha Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily Contact: Call 4453-5555 or visit bliss.doha@whotels.com

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QH SENSATIONS

The Dish On Qatar

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Words by Donnabelle Ribu

With the summer holidays now over, QH tackles the ever growing issue of Cyber Bullying in Schools.

e all now live in techy times. Most people, including students have a plethora of online social media accounts not to mention the many instant messaging apps too. Facebook is one of the more famous social media platforms and is often used as a personal way to connect to your local community, but many businesses use it to great effect these days as well. Mark Zukerberg (the founder of Facebook) didn’t initially create Facebook to be a company; it was created as a way to make the world more open and connected. However as it grows day-by-day, it’s become an essential component of our daily lives. Many feel incomplete or somewhat paralyzed if they are not able to open or visit their accounts on a daily basis. Social Media is making our communication with our loved ones easier, especially for those who have family living abroad. People can receive updates and photos which in some way, can make us feel closer to our families even though, in reality, you may not have physically seen them for a number of months. Social media now plays a very important role in society; it has given more people a voice. Thanks to social media, even a person who is not a part of the mainstream media can now air his/her thoughts, and is able to share their interests with friends instantly. Social Media has really changed the way society communicates; it’s made everybody closer with updates arriving faster than the blink of an eye. This, of course, has the effect on making a great many number of things a lot easier in our daily lives. However, with each new innovation comes the cons, the same is true with the arrival of social media. Social Media posts can be constructive or destructive, especially when it comes to commenting on people’s profiles. Of course it is nice and encouraging when other social media users like and endorse your comments or photos but sometimes you may find yourself on the end of a barrage of abusive language. When someone's reputation is at stake, then destructive and negative comments can have serious consequences, particularly those suffering from low self-esteem. Often people can misinterpret something posted on social media. Sadly there are many weird and often terribly sad examples of this. An innocent post or photo being uploaded can lead to a lot of criticism and potentially even finding oneself being ostracized.

The recent example of the Balouchi woman and popular blogger in Pakistan, who was murdered by her own brother, shows that social media can even mean life or death in some countries. Students can often have a tough time in school but in the past, children who were bullied at least knew that when the final bell rung, they could escape and go home. Nowadays, even that seems to be gone, with bullies and negative comments being consistently posted onto the victim’s profile, making their lives a living hell.

What Kids Need to Know: • Never give out personal information online, whether in instant message profiles, chat rooms, blogs, or personal websites. • Never tell anyone but your parents your password, even friends. • If someone sends a mean or threatening message, don't respond. Save it or print it out and show it to an adult. • Never open emails from someone you don't know or from someone you know is a bully. • Don't put anything online that you wouldn't want your classmates to see, even in email. • Don't send messages when you're angry. Before clicking "send," ask yourself how you would feel if received the message. • Help kids who are bullied online by not joining in and showing bullying messages to an adult. • Always be as polite online as you are in person. Since most cyber bullying takes place at home, it's important that parents know about cyber bullying and that they get involved in preventing it. Just like parents help their kids avoid inappropriate websites, they can also help to protect them from cyber bullying.

What Parents Can Do • Keep your home computer is a busy area of your house. • Set up email and chat accounts with your children. Make sure that you know their screen names and passwords and that they don't include any personal information in their online profiles. • Regularly go over their instant messenger "buddy list" with them. Ask who each person is and how your children know him or her. • Discuss cyber bullying with your children and ask if they have ever experienced it or seen it happen to someone. • Tell your children that you won't blame them if they are cyber bullied. Emphasize that you won't take away their computer privileges - this is the main reason kids don't tell adults when they are cyber bullied. n

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IT HAPPENED

Thani, Chairman of the H.E. Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Dr Thani Al Kuwari join Qatar Olympic Committee and Mutaz Barshim in cutting cake

Abubaker Haider competes in the Men's 800 m race

Nasser Al-Attiyah during his visit to Bayt Qatar

Thani, H.E. Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Committee Chairman of the Qatar Olympic pic Silver celebrates with High Jump Olym medallist Mutaz Essa Barshim

Fares Ibrahim competes in Rio 2016

QATARI ATHLETES SHINE AT THE GAMES OF THE XXXI OLYMPIAD Rio, Brazil Aug 5-21, 2016 94 QH Sep 2016 - Aug 25.indd 94

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PAINT THE TOWN Grand Hyatt Aug 2, 2016 95 QH Sep 2016 - Aug 25.indd 95

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IT HAPPENED

DOHA HUSTLE Nozomi Aug 18, 2016

ZAHR EL-LAYMOUN OPENING Al Shaumoukh Tower Aug 17, 2016 96 QH Sep 2016 - Aug 25.indd 96

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AQUA PARK PRESS CONFERENCE Aqua Park Aug 4, 2016

MUAY THAI ROAD SHOW Grand Hyatt Augt 20, 2016 97 QH Sep 2016 - Aug 25.indd 97

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IT HAPPENED

HEDKANDI PARTY Strata, InterContinental Doha The City Aug 5, 2016

THE QH GRAB BAG WINNER St. Regis Hotel Aug 19, 2016 98 QH Sep 2016 - Aug 25.indd 98

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PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Doha Marriott Hotel Four Seasons Mรถvenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha The Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Millennium Hotel Doha Mรถvenpick Hotel Mรถvenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Grand Doha The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Wyndham Grand Regency

4424-4881 4040-5050 4445-8888 4408-7777 4429-8888 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1555 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333

AIRLINES Air Arabia 4432-2111 4444-5101 Air France American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India 4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 Oman Air 4432-0509 Qatar Airways 4449-6666 4443-1431 Royal Jordanian Sri Lankan Airlines 4444-1217 Turkish Airlines 4443-3027

HEALTH / BEAUTY

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP

Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 4496-6410 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Franรงaise 4468-9211 4498-0033 Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 4494-8801 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8844 Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 4483-9100 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4495-3876 The Pearl Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 4492-1555 Heavenly Spa La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 4451-7590 Medical Spa Villaggio Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083

REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8817 4486-6077 Chowking Dar Al Salam Mall Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 FOOD SERVICE 4442 8877 German Bakery Company Coffee Planet 4442 8877 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

TOURISM / TRAVEL Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental

4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT

999

DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL 4438-4333 EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999 AL AHLI HOSPITAL 4489-8000 HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL 4439-2222

RUMAILAH HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD & WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

SHOPPING Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 4487-5222 Landmark Mall Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

EMBASSIES American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

4496-6000 4483-9360 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4205 4483-2555 4402-1702 4408-2334 44128150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 6622-1552 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880

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