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WIN THE KEY TO HER HEART Book your special Valentine’s Day Menu at New York Steakhouse or Cucina the Italian Kitchen at the West End for a chance to win the key to her heart. Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel Reservations: +974 4419 6100 restaurantreservations@westenddoha.com
Special terms and conditions apply. The golden key can be ordered in white or yellow gold or can be exchanged for another key-design or piece of jewelry (selected range) for a value of QR2300 at the discretion of LoneStar Jewelry. You will be entered into the draw upon booking a valentine’s dinner menu at one of our participating outlets (February 9-14, 2012).
ONE DESTINATION – A WORLD OF SENSATIONS westenddoha.com
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OUT om K C E CH appening.c
James Blunt Brings the 'Trouble' to Doha!
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CONTENTS
February IN EVERY ISSUE 8 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LETTER QH’s editor-in-chief tells you what’s happening this month.
10 QH TEAM Meet the QH staff!
13 EVENTS CALENDAR Pullout monthly events calendar with happening events in Doha
98 IT HAPPENED QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha
111 PHONE DIRECTORY Need-to-know phone numbers
ENTERTAINMENT 19 HOT PICKS 20 James Blunt Interview with James Blunt
22 SMADJ IN CONCERT 24 Jazz it up Mövenpick Doha's Jazz Lounge
25 The Music Man The best house music to download this month, courtesy of DJ Mark Bambach
26 ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS
ARTS & CULTURE 31 HOT PICKS 32 All That Jazz Wynton Marsalis visits Doha
34 Born To Do It Right Aleksandr Haskin
36 Shakespeare 4 Kidz Katara presents Shakespeare 4 Kidz
37 ARTS AND CULTURE LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month
Find out everything that’s going on this month
5
COMMUNITY 39 HOT PICKS 40 Breaking the Guinness World Record for the Game of Hide and Seek
pg 51 Taste & Fun 2012
Stenden University students will host this event at Katara
42 COMMUNITY LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month
43 Katara Beach Opens for New Members Katara Beach opens membership to the public
44 KIDS IDS CLUB LISTINGS Ideas to do with the kids
SPORTS
FOOD & DINING 47 HOT PICKS 48 Wok Mee Restaurant - Review
50 Al Mourjan Food Corner Learn how to make baked tomatoes with couscous and herbs
51 T Taste & Fun 2012 Restaurant - Review
52 FOOD AND DINING LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month
63 HOT PICKS 64 Sail The Gulf 2012 Organized by Doha Sailing and Rowing Club
66 The Masters Return A look at Doha Golf Club
68 Qatar Ladies Open 2012 Ladies tennis is back! Find out more about this year's hottest tournament
70 QSL Take a look at Qatar Star League Players for 2012
72 SPORT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month
QH SENSATIONS 80 Miraculously Thai Spa Review
82 Brown Bag vs. Boxed Lunches 84 New Years Rejuvenation 86 U.S POLO OPENS at Lagoona Mall
93 Experience: Reasons to Fly Our pick of top destinations
96 VIRGIN RECOMMENDS Virgin Megastore’s top five books this month
97 TOP MOVIES This month's top five films
74 Ten T Years of Living The Dream IAID - a closer look at all this international academy has to offer
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For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email to info@qatarhappening.com
FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR IN CHIEF This month Qatar Happening Magazine celebrates 10 years of publishing. From its original concept as a small event guide to our recent transformation in 2010 to a full sized magazine, QH staff has worked tirelessly to bring the public, entertainment, event information, reviews and stories of local interest. As Doha grew, we had to grow along with her to continue offering our readers the same high quality information that they had come to expect. Adding to this growth, we welcome QH’s new editor, Ashlee Starratt, who brings with her a wealth of experience that will surely enhance our publication and make us an even better magazine and web portal.
Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Editorial Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari Graphic Designer: Soné Moriarty Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Cordinator: Jeniffer Daclan Ruiz
In this issue, the QH team is happy to bring you a full event calendar with the arrival of pop rock sensation singer James Blunt, one of Britain’s greatest music exports who burst on the scene in 2005 with the hits 'You're Beautiful' and 'Goodbye My Lover'. This not to be missed concert is playing at the InterContinental Hotel and tickets are available at Virgin. Additionally, if you enjoy the game of Golf, the Gulf Masters returns to the Doha Golf Club for the fifteenth year, bringing with it some of the most famous golfers now playing on the European PGA tour. Also, for tennis lovers, the ladies are back in Doha. The top players on the WTA tour will be playing the Qatar Ladies Open 2012. Come and see the world’s leading tennis players, including Caroline Wozniacki, Petra Kvitova, Victoria Azarenka, who are presently ranked 1, 2, and 3 in the world.
Photographer: Jesus Jonson Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara
Lastly, if you want to participate in the chance to break a world record, February offers you the opportunity to participate in a Guinness Book of World record attempt to play the largest game of hide and seek. This family fun filled event will take place in Katara Cultural Village with the help of Stenden University marketing students. Tickets are sold through Virgin Megastore. We also have put together a comprehensive guide from our hotel partners who are offering endless options to celebrate Valentines.
Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:
Make sure you pull-out our handy detachable events calendar to stay informed of all the activities, and check out QH online for any last minute breaking events or changes. Thank you for making us a part of your life.
New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Business Development Consultant: Kristina Helg Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Ashlee Starratt, Mark Bambach, Alex Corey, Charlie Gandelman, Khalifa Saleh Haroon, Kristin Russell, Christina Maria Paschyn, Victoria Scott, Nitya Shukla, Ed Thomas Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome. Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com marketing@qatarhappening.com +974 4427 8416 +974 5556 5046 +974 4427 8415
Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar
QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group of Companies. 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. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.
Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor in Chief
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ON THE COVER Qatar Ladies Open 2012 top player Caroline Wozniacki
QH TEAM
Have A Fabulous February From All of Us At Qatar Happening!
Guru Moona,
Lanie, Admin Mas ter
Srimani,
Finalize
Jorge
, PR
Jessi
e, Ph oto
graph
er
Susanna,
l Media Gir
Deliah, Ad Wiz
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening 10
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening
r
RECOMMENDS
Feeling the need to spoil yourself? Check out our favourite indulgences this month.
Volvo XC90 Moona
Collégien, Paola
Pink Nouveau – Jenny
A Volvo is for life due to it’s unparalleled safety record. As with any Volvo, the XC90 offers an array of standard safety features such as roll stability control, dynamic stability and traction control, side impact protection system and airbags for all three rows of seats. What I like about my XC90 sport-sedan is its road manners! It is has a smooth and refined performance, a safe and stable road feel with plenty of traction in virtually any condition. Besides, it is painted in a beautiful shade of red making it a perfect Valentines gift. HINT HINT HINT!
Looking for comfort? These shoes are your best bet. They are lightweight, durable and affordable! They are made of wool and cotton. I am a mom and I love it when my ‘unica hija’ wears Collegien, one of the features is good traction which will prevent my daughter from slipping and they have multiple colourful designs to choose from. They're also available for grown-ups!
MAC Cosmetics’ satin lipstick in Pink Nouveau is definitely a girl’s secret weapon! This crazy popular lipstick is semi-matte, long-wear, medium-to-full pigment but neither as dry nor as matte.. It has a satin finish and a perfect classic 'barbie pink' colour that will look like cotton candy on your lips. The colour lasts for a long time, no need for multiple touch ups.. Perfect in highlighting your gorgeous skin tone, because of its youthful and fresh pinkish color – just fabulous!ϑ
T TO
BROUGH
YOU
Torta di Lime e Meringa – Susanna My favourite “new find” in Doha is the Torta di Lime e Meringa at Carluccios, or for those of us that do not speak Italian fresh lime tart topped with meringue. Mere words alone cannot describe how delicious this is, you have to try it for yourself (or if you are VERY kind you could share it with a friend!). The filling is soothingly soft and refreshing encased in very light crispy pastry and covered with deliciously fluffy and ridiculously rich homemade meringue. It’s to die for and for only QR 20 it’s a must!
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Our handy calendar is now detachable.
Tear out the February Highlights!
FEBRUARY SUNDAY
MONDAY
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TUESDAY
CHECK OUT
www.qatarhappening.com
Bandeoke Grand Finals InterContinental Doha
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Grill Night W Doha Sundays Cooking Class Ritz-Carlton Doha
Irish Harp Sheraton Doha
12 Kids Cookie Class Carluccio’s
Breastfeeding Support Group Various
Far Eastern Buffet Wyndham Grand Regency Doha Mondays
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Latino Restaurant Sheraton Doha Mondays – Saturdays
Qatar Ladies Open Tennis KITSC Until the 19th
Valentine’s Day (see special feature & listings)
Ministry of Sound @ 7 La Cigale
Spinning Ritz-Carlton Doha
The Laughter Factory Ramada Plaza Until the 14th
13
Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Doha Golf Club Until the 5th Qatar National History Group DESS
DJ Sacha Muki W Doha
Back II Beats W Doha
Greatest Hits of Classical Music Opera House, Katara
Fusion Set Dinner Holiday Villa Until the 25th
Barbecue at the Admirals Terrace Ritz-Carlton Doha Thursdays and Fridays
Track Day Losail International Circuit
Wig Party Grand Hyatt Doha
Crossroads Family Brunch West End, Renaissance Fridays
1
Louise Bourgeois Katara Until the 29th
Bourbon Street Blues at Jazz Club Oryx Rotana Daily
Italian Night Movenpick Hotel Doha Mondays
Italian Feast Sheraton Doha Daily
THURSDAY
Six Nations Rugby Champions, Renaissance Doha Until the 29th
for the latest information! Thyme for Lunch Four Seasons Doha Sundays – Thursdays
WEDNESDAY
James Blunt Concert InterContinental Hotel
7
14
Taste and Fun Festival Until the 11th
11 Super Series Losail International Circuit
Fernando’s Churrasco Night Sheraton Doha Wednesdays
DJ Stephane Karl W Doha
Curry Night Movenpick Tower & Suites Wednesdays
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Seafood Delight Oryx Rotana Thursdays
Australian Chef’s Table Oryx Rotana
Concert Series Museum of Islamic Art Park
Crossing Boundaries Lecture VCU
Big English Afternoon Tea Sheraton Doha
Shakespeare 4 Kidz Katara Until the 16th
DJ Roger Choueiry at 7 La Cigale
Tapas Galore Oryx Rotana
Rio Carnival W Doha
“Winter Warmer” Class Sharq Village & Spa
Salsa Intro Ramada Plaza
Culinary Quiz Night at Picasso’s Ramada Plaza
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SATURDAY
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Guinness Book of Records Hide & Seek Katara DJ Greg W Doha
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Monthly Vino Club Meeting Ritz-Carlton Doha
FRIDAY
Smadj’s SOS Tour Qatar National Theater
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Good Mood Business Lunch InterContinental Doha
Pub Quiz Ramada Plaza
Chef’s Table by Chef Murhaf Ritz-Carlton Doha
Qatar Quilt Guild Al-Jazi 2
Open Vinyasa Yoga Yama Yoga Studios
Garden Club The One Coffee Shop
Lecture by Ali Alraouf VCU
Doha Mums Pearl Coffee Break The Pearl-Qatar
Sugar Sweet Life Workshops Sharq Village & Spa Mondays
New Arrivals Coffee Hyatt Plaza
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Zumba IAID
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Sail the Gulf Qatar Sail Federation Until the 15th
DJ Bliss Big Friday Night W Doha
Six Nations Rugby Saturdays and Sundays
Shisha Under the Stars Ritz-Carlton Doha Daily
Karate IAID
Carnival Party Grand Hyatt Doha
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Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Opera House, Katara
Push It To The Limit Sharq Village & Spa
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Kids Cookie Class Movenpick Hotel
National Road Racing Championships Losail International Circuit
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National Baja QMMF Saturday Session W Doha
Jazz Up Daily
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Cooking Class Grand Hyatt Doha
Kickfit Kickfit InterContinentalDoha Doha InterContinental
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AVAILABLE at your
favourite newsstands for only QR 8.00 Virgin Megastores, Qatar Duty-Free, Jarir Bookstore, GO Sport, Lulu Stores, Caribou Coffee on Salwa Road., Megamart and Sidra Stores at Woqod Gas Stations.
ENTERTAINMENTARTSCULTUREFOODCOMMUNITYSPORTS
QH RECOMMENDS
Fujifilm Instax - Soné I am currently obsessed with the Fujifilm Instax Polaroid camera! It prints out the most beautiful credit card size vintage instant photos. A friend introduced me to this little gadget and I am totally hooked, I have promised myself that I will definitely invest in one of these. I like the fact that the photos look like they have been taken in a different vintage-inspired era, and that I am able to have an instant photo in my hand afterwards. You can take this little toy anywhere as it's very compact and easy to use.
Victoria’s Secret Make-Up Fall Kit - Marlynne Have you ever wondered why can’t the cosmetic companies create a compact make-up kit where most everything is included without breaking the bank? Yes I’m speaking of almost everything; eye shadow, blush, eyeliner, mascara and lip gloss! After a long search I can finally say...Eureka! Thanks to VS’ make up palette, I can now go anywhere without carrying a bulky make-up kit. And the cost is reasonable too! Oh, before I forget, the shades are quite lovely ranging from light to smoky collections.
Kellogg’s Frosties and Milk Bar - Lanie It’s a soft and chewy cereal bar with a delicious milky layer on the bottom, making it a real anytime treat. It is fortified with vitamins, iron and calcium. I honestly don’t like to eat cereals as I find it tasteless but this one is a fantastic option- a sweet and delightful cereal. I decided to trade my chocolate bars for Frosties as they keep my craving for chocolates at bay and they are low in calories and sugar. The most enjoyable part of it as a mom is I can share it with my son without any worries. I am giving him a hearty healthy snack!
Sony’s NEX-7 - Jessie Why am not surprised! As a photographer Sony's top-of-the-line mirrorless interchangeable lens camera is my current love! It features a 24 Megapixel sensor (yes, you read that right), great build quality, an articulating 3-inch LCD, beautiful OLED electronic viewfinder, blazing performance, a customizable interface, and true 1080/60p video recording, the NEX-7 will win any spec competition with ease. It doesn’t end there for it also includes an electronic level, cool sweep panorama, anti-motion blur, and HDR modes, a built-in flash, the powerful Tri-Navi interface, and strong battery life. Okay that’s enough of high-faluting words, all I can say is “for all the camera enthusiasts out there this is your next best thing!”
Wild Cherry Body Butter with amazing Wild Cherry Fragrance - Sri Ever since I received it as a gift for my birthday, I fell in love with this body butter. What is special about it? It doesn’t leave my skin sticky, yet provides full time hydration. I love to use it every day, no matter whether the season is winter or summer I use it whenever my skin calls for a luxurious lather. I highly recommend this body butter for any type of skin! Try it. I'm sure you'll love it.
Bodum Travel Press - Deliah What would the world look like without coffee, hazy, boring and plain colourless? And not just ordinary coffee, real coffee brewed to your own personal taste. Whether you choose to devour Kimbo, Segafredo, or Starbucks nothing beats the aroma of the real deal. Things just seem clearer with my trusted Bodum Travel Press not far from my side nestled in my Jeep cup holder. A busy gal like me needs a constant buzz within arms reach at all times.
Narciso Rodriguez, “For Him” - Jorge I discovered “For Him” when I first visited the newly opened Lagoona Mall in West Bay. On that particular day I wasn’t in the mood to buy cologne; I was actually there to buy a Christmas present for a female friend. But when one of the salespeople sprayed the new Narciso Rodriguez fragrance I was simply captivated by the smell. “For Him” is a masculine, elegant, modern and sensual scent. It instantly became my favourite perfume. Everything about it from the smell to the sleek chic design of the bottle is irresistible. 17
THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE
Masqerade Party @ Rocca
Thurs 2nd: Grand Hyatt Doha. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information, call 7719-2974.
DJ Sacha Muki
Thurs 2nd: W Doha. Crystal presents international DJ and producer Sacha Muki to spin electro house, direct from London, Paris and NY. From 11:00 p.m. till 2.30 a.m. For more information, call 4453- 5135 or BBM 26E78A27
Ministry of Sound @ 7
Mon 13th: La Cigale. Who said romance can’t go glamour? Shout “devotion” and let your night turn into a flame of love this Valentine's. Ministry of Sound will be hosting the event with their renowned international DJs. For more information, call 4428-8665.
Bandeoke Grand Finals
Mon 6th: InterContinental Doha. The winner gets round-trip tickets for two sponsored by Etihad Airways. For more information, call 4484-4444.
OUT om K C E H g.c C appenin
atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for
Pub Quiz
Mon 27th: Ramada Plaza. The original and best pub quiz in town returns for another year of fun! Bring along your team of 6 to take part in Doha’s favourite quiz night with host, Andrew. No entry fee and great prizes to be won. Quiz starts at 8:00 p.m. at Shehrazad.
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
James blunt
brings the 'Trouble' to Doha! By Jorge Granda
James Blunt has hypnotized millions of people all over the world with his harmonious melodies and irresistible charm. The British superstar will make a stop in Doha as part of his worldwide tour to perform at the InterContinental Doha. QH had the privilege to speak with Blunt in anticipation of the biggest concert of the year. The English singer-songwriter and musician jumped to fame in 2005 when his album “Back to Bedlam” topped the charts all over the world. His singles 'You're Beautiful' and 'Goodbye My Lover' became instant classics and now, his latest album 'Some Kind of Trouble' has him poised to become one of the most famous and recognizable British artists of all time. His music is a combination of acoustic-tinged pop, rock and folk. Blunt has sold over 15 million records in his career and has been touring the world with his latest album 'Some Kind of Trouble.' For the first time he is visiting Doha and will electrify audiences with his show. QH: As a musician, what challenges have you had to face? JB: Not many! I have an amazing job and I’m very lucky to do it. I tour constantly, but I travel with a band and crew who are my friends. Touring for the last seven years in a tour bus with 12 hairy, smelly men doing
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what we love all around the world has a few costs but huge rewards. QH: You released “Back to Bedlam” in 2004, “All the Lost Souls” in 2007 and “Some Kind of Trouble” in 2010. What are you working on next? JB: I am focused on this world tour with this new album “Some Kind of Trouble. In 2011, I went through over 220 cities, and the tour rolls on… QH: “All the Lost Souls” is filled with very profound ballads, what generally inspires you to write songs such as let’s say “The Same Mistake.” Does it come from personal experiences or something that happened to a friend of yours? JB: All my songs are from personal experience. I write them because I need to. They are my outlet of expression.
QH: As a musician what is the process you go through when you decide to start composing, is there any particular preparation, or let’s say ritual and when do you know it is the right time for you to go in the studio? JB: On my own, it’s just when i feel. i normally go in the studio when I feel I’m ready to put stuff down. QH: Which one has been the best collaboration in your opinion? JB: I loved working with Sinik, the French rapper. It was an amazing new experience, especially playing at his concert. QH: I understand you are very much involved in environmental causes, what is the importance and the impact this initiative has in your life and career?
SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
JB: The world is our home, and it takes very little common sense to see we’re not looking after it at the moment.
speakers give time to English songs as well. The British themselves are bad at that!
QH: I believe it is your first time in Qatar, what are your expectations, what kind of audience are you expecting to find?
QH: How do you feel about “Back to Bedlam” as the bestselling album of the 2000’s in the UK?
JB: I have friends in Qatar, so I’m looking forward to seeing them. As for the place and the audience, I have no idea, but I’m looking forward to it! QH: Are you familiar with the musical movement in the Middle East, have you worked with or know about the work of any artist from the Gulf?
JB: They are numbers that are hard to follow or believe. I guess something more tangible is being on tour and being able to meet and play for an audience each night. QH: What would be your advice to our readers or other inspiring artists like yourself seeking success?
Ticketing information Date: 14th of February Tickets are on sale at Virgin Megastore in Villagio and Landmark Malls and InterContinental Doha (Lobby, James Blunt Desk). Tickets can also be purchased on-line at www.virginmegastore.me
Fan pit (VIP) - QR 500 General admission - QR 250
JB: I’m pretty naïve to that music scene, but am excited to find out more.
JB: Not by fame or fortune should one's success be measured, but instead by the quality of your friends and the smile on your face.
Terms & conditions: 21+ Only - original Qatar id or passport only!!
QH: What is your opinion about English albums/songs creating a wave in the Gulf?
QH: Is there anything else we have not covered that you wish to put more emphasis on?
For more information please ask on the event wall or call 44844444
JB: There are a lot of English speakers in the region who can understand English songs, but I’m amazed that non-English
JB: The live show is not what you expect. Come and see it.
Doors open 7pm
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
SMaDJ IN CONCerT The Institut Français du Qatar is hosting a concert showcasing a rich and laid back blend of Arabic and European music. QH gives you all the details on this unique mixture of sounds. A rich atmosphere and a lovely Arabic feel, this is just what you want for a nice relaxing weekend in Doha. Do not expect traditional oud sounds, but rather get surprised by a dub/trip-hop feeling which will lazily transport you from Europe to the Middle East with a festive stopover on the Bosphorus shores. Smadj's 'SOS' is a joyful yet laidback blend of Arabic and European musical feelings; a magic mix of electronic music with gypsy, jazz and oriental sounds. A product of the Parisian and Turkish dance scene, Smadj's music stems from his roots in Africa, Tunisia and Europe. The talented musician forged his musical education by exploring the different styles of music from these three areas. He is a master of the oud, blending it with acoustic and electronic sounds. Inspired by Istanbul, he ended up settling there and meeting his peers: Orhan Osman, another Greek European musician looking to play his bouzouki, guitars, and banjo with like-minded artists; and , a clarinettist who is a wizard at creating gypsy music. They both understood Smadj's project in a flash and joined him in exploring melodies made of contemporary and numerical rhythms. Together they inaugurate a new type of festive gathering: the electronic "fasil". This is your opportunity to discover a very particular mixture of sounds and enjoy a one-of-a-kind concert. Don’t miss out on the opportunity and buy your tickets fast. 'SOS' CDs will be available during the concert.
ABOUT SMADJ: Event:
SMADJ in concert
Where:
Qatar National Theatre at the Corniche
When:
Friday, Feb. 10
Time:
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Tickets are on sale at the Institut français du Qatar and Virgin Megastores For more information call 44 93 08 62/63 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
T S be ing
m o c up ar ties p WIG PARTY Mark Thursday, Feb. 2 in your social calendar because Coco Latte in association with Rocca Poolside is staging the trendiest party of the season. The super exclusive Wig Party will feature funky uplifting vocal house music played by renowned DJ Mark Bambach. The organizers are staying tight-lipped about all the surprises in store, but this party has all the elements for a momentous occasion. Rocca is aiming to introduce a new nightlife in Doha and change the way residents enjoy a good night out. The unconventional celebration offers you the opportunity to play with your imagination. Wear a wig and you will receive a free welcome drink. Tables will sell out fast hurry up and book fast. EVENT DETAILS: Date: Time: Entry: ID: Dress Code: Reservatation: T Tel:
February 2nd 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. Free May be required Funky, trainers are welcome 7719 2974 77981272
Reservations in the DJ lounge or dining area. Email: rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com for more information.
Fe br u ar y b r i ng s c o o le the s t pa r t ie s chic a to t h nd so e p h Rocc is t ic a a Po o l s ide a te d G ra n t the d Hy a t t Bay L Do h a , We s ag o o n t . QH g yo u a i ve s cce s s to i nf or m at io a l l t h e ny k no w t o e n o u ne e d t o joy t h t wo p e a r t ie s of t be s t h e mo n t h.
CARNIVAL PARTY The most famous carnival in the world lands in Doha this month. Rocca will host its very first annual Carnival party Rio de Janeiro style for the amusement of the crowd. It couldn’t get better as Rocca welcomes the biggest South American celebration. You do not need to fly all the way to Brazil to experience the colorful, over the top Brazilian carnival. You can dance all night long to the special set resident DJ Mark Bambach is preparing inspired by the Latino and salsa sounds. Adding to the extravaganza is live percussion and drums. EVENT DETAILS: Date: Time: Entry: ID: Dress Code: trainers are welcome Reservation: Tel:
February 24th 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Free May be required Dress in bright colors, 77192974 77981272
Reservations in the DJ lounge or dining area. Email: rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com for more information.
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
Jazz it up By Jorge Granda
Mövenpick Hotel Doha has recently opened its new lounge specifically designed for lovers of Jazz. QH was invited to see first-hand what makes “Jazz Up” the perfect spot to chill out and listen to smooth tunes while sipping a delicious drink or savouring a very special dish. Jazz Up, located at the Mövenpick Hotel Doha on Corniche Road, promises to become a “place to meet and be seen” among jazz enthusiasts.
by listening to the tranquilizing melodies of Mary Krall and her trio. The Menu The menu includes starters (Chicken Quesadilla, Beef fillet skewer, Salmon Tartare), Pastas (Tagliolini pasta, Foie gras risotto), Sandwiches (Beef burger, South African steak, Tuscany buffalo), Main Courses (Gratin lobster ragout, Grilled seafood platter, Angus beef tenderloin), among others.
Jazz Up offers the public an intimate atmosphere, contemporary design, creative beverages and an extensive snacks menu, in addition to regular jazz sessions, making Jazz Up unique in Doha’s nightlife scene. It will not take long before Jazz Up emerges as one of the hottest lounges in town. With a capacity for 70 people, Jazz Up features a comfortable bar, cozy seating areas, low lighting and personalized service. The space is small, but intimate and the attention to details is clearly evident throughout. As you enter the room, you immediately notice that it was designed to create an atmosphere that encourages you to relax and enjoy a night out with friends in an elegant yet unpretentious environment. We visited Jazz Up on a Friday night. Throughout the evening Chris Coull and his quartet took us on a magical musical journey. The band interacts with the audience in such a way that one feels they are part of the show. If you are looking for that special place where you can just unwind and indulge with quality drinks and food, Jazz Up is the lounge you are looking for. 24
ABOUT JAZZ UP : 5:00 pm - 1:00 am Opening hours: (Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon and Tue) 5:00 pm - 2:00 am (Wed and Thu) Live entertainment The club offers you live entertainment twice per week: Every Friday night, Jazz trumpeter, Chris Coull and his quartet will sooth you into the weekend with their melodic sounds featuring swing, be-bop, soul and funk music. Wednesday evenings you can relax and celebrate the week being almost over
Dress Code:
Casual
Smoking: Available Reservations: 44291111
SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
The
Music Man Mark Bambach is resident DJ at Rocca, poolside at the Grand Hyatt, West Bay Lagoon. Catch him every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday night. This month he brings us his top five hottest music picks. Download them at www.beatport.com, www.traxsource.com and www.iTunes.com. Chillout/Lounge Git – 'If You Just Make Love To Me' (Yoruba Records) This underground roots-flavoured hip hop groove is from Staten Island New York. I haven't a clue what the sample is on this one, but this track has a crazy, infectious whistling, and you will be humming it in no time. The production is perfection: the drums and percussion are bang on. While you're at it, download the entire album “Git Imagination”. It's well worth a listen. Soulful House M&S Feat Shaun Escoffery – 'So Sweetly' (Tony Records) It has been a long time since we've heard from Shaun Escoffery, the man responsible for one of the most loved and respected soulful house tunes from the 90s, “Days Like This”. He's teamed up with legendary producers M&S, who had a massive club hit “Salsoul Nugget” in early 2000. It's the uplifting sure shot vocal which does it for me. Cool summery soulful house.
Deep House Maxi Volvona – 'Lisa' (White Label) London UK's Ad Brown aka Maxi Volvona is a champion of the bootleg and he's done it again here. DJ and progressive house producer, he turns things a little hypnotic and deeper here with an exciting twist in the middle. Lifting the acapella from 1989's classic club track “People Hold On” from Coldcut feat Lisa Stansfield, this is an absolute winner for me. This is my track of the month. Commercial/Club Alexandra Burke – 'Elephant Feat Erick Morillo' (Epic Records) X-Factor UK winner in 2008, Alexandra Burke has had a reasonably successful career. Burke teams up with Subliminal Records house maestro from the US Erick Morillo on her latest offering “Elephant”. This has all the elements of current club dance music. Although I find it unnecessarily noisy, I'm sure this track will do Alexandra justice and get her back on Radio 1's playlist.
Chart/Pop Dj Fresh Feat Rita Ora – 'Hot Right Now' (Ministry Of Sound) With Dubstep's current craze igniting worldwide, it seems another revamp is due for Drum & Bass. Daniel Stein a.k.a. DJ Fresh unleashes “Hot Right Now' with top-notch vocals from Rita Ora. Signed to the Ministry of Sound label, this commercial catchy drum & bass track is destined to shoot straight to number 1 worldwide on its release in mid-February 2012. Club mixes come courtesy of Kumiki and Redroche. I guarantee this will be another massive hit for Ministry of Sound. House Music is a style of electronic music with a heavy bass beat. ABOUT ROCCA: Rocca is a sophisticated Mediterranean influenced eatery, cocktail bar and DJ lounge, surrounded by turquoise swimming pools and nestled on the edge of West Bay Lagoon at the sumptuous Grand Hyatt Doha. Reservations essential Thursdays and Fridays and for Coco Latté's special parties once a month. Hotline (+974) 77192974 Email: rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com 25
ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS ER IND er EM 1 or ov s. R QH st be 2 htclub r nig mu you You nter all o bring to e orget t on card 't f ati Don entific assport. id or p
Monthly Vino Club Meeting
Mon 20th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy a variety of cheese and canapés in conjunction with exclusive vino, provided by QDC. Open to members of the vino club only. New members are welcome. QR 4,500 for couples and QR 2,500 for singles. From 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000.
“Winter Warmer” Class
Mon 20th: Sharq Village & Spa. Join the Cigar Lounge team and learn how to make winter warmers for your friends and family to enjoy during the cooler nights in January. QR 210 per person. From 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4425-6666.
One Of A Kind DJ Kinky D @ Wahm
1st, 2nd, 3rd and 8th, 9th, 10th: W Doha. Mix and migle with everyone's favourite London-based DJ. Over 16 years on the decks spinning from Ministry of Sound to BBC Radio. Wed 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m., Thurs and Fri 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Reserve your cabana by calling 4453-5135.
Six Nations Rugby @ Champions!
Wed 1st – Wed 29th: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Discounts, t-shirts and our private room with over QR 3000 of drinks and food to be won. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Back II Beats
Fri 3th and Sat 4th: W Doha. DJ Klaus and Ameet “El Bongo”. Entry free. Reservations highly recommended. For more information, call 4453-5135.
DJ Stephane Karl
Thurs 9th, 16th and 23rd: W Doha. From the hottest parties in St. Tropez, DJ Stephane Karl brings the best of electro house to Doha. From 11:00 p.m. till 2:30 a.m. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27
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Shaken or Stirred - Art of Rio Carnival Cocktail Making Wed 22nd: W Doha. Celebrate Carnival Fri 10th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. The Habanos team will teach you some of the most exciting combinations including our signature Breath of Life cocktail. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. QR 225 per person. For reservations, call 4484- 8000.
DJ Greg
Fri 10th: W Doha. Carnival Party brings you DJ Greg & world renowned percussionist Hush! From 11:00 p.m. till 2.30 a.m. For more information, call 4453- 5135 or BBM 26E78A27
The Laughter Factory
Mon 13th & Tue 14th: Ramada Plaza. “You’re having a laugh!” Well you will be as we bring you this months dose of humour. Three of the best comics present over 2 hour club stand-up, direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings at Shehrazad are non smoking events. Shows start at 8:00 p.m., QR 120 per person, including 1 drink. For more information, call 4428-1555.
DJ Bliss Big Friday Night
Fri 17th: W Doha. Hot from Dubai nightlife. From 11:00 p.m. till 2.30 a.m. For more information, call 4453- 5135 or BBM 26E78A27
with Latin sounds and Congo beats. As only Wahm knows how. 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For details on how to become a member call 4453 5315.
Carnival Party @ Rocca
Fri 24th: Grand Hyatt Doha. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information, call 7719-2974.
EVERY WEEK DJ Night with DJ Roger Choueiry
Sundays: La Cigale. Enjoy the best in music from across the globe with this DJ. Rock out on the floor and dedicate your favourite songs to your special one at Madison Piano Bar. Ladies joining the DJ will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee. For more information, call 4428-8665.
Chill Out Night
Sundays: W Doha. Come and enjoy whimsical adult beverages or groove to the music in Crystal Lounge. Tempt your tastebuds with light bites and indulge yourself with an early drink! For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.
ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS
The Latino Night
Champions League Football
Sundays: Rotana Oryx. The Jazz Club has become one of the most distinguished destination in Doha for jazz lovers, already offering a diverse mix of music. Enjoy the live musical Latino Jazz experience with a special show presented by Carambola band.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Catch the games live on huge screens while enjoying special beverages. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Rock Star!
Sip N’ Fly
Mondays: InterContinental Doha. Ever wanted to be a rock star? Well now you can, as you join resident band Big Mouth on stage to perform the songs of your choice. Free drinks for everyone who participates and prizes for the weekly and monthly winners to be chosen by the band! For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.
Chill Out with Lisa
Mondays - Fridays: W Doha. Celebrate the week in style at Crystal Champagne Lounge, as Lisa performs the best classic and romantic songs. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.
Chadi El Basha, the New One-Man-Show
Mondays – Saturdays: La Cigale. Enjoy live Arabic music, in the eclectic mix of chic, elegant, Madison Piano Bar, which is decked out in vibrant furnishings. Cozy and stylish, it offers a wide range of finger food, sushi & sashimi and cigars complemented by a selection of fine beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.; live entertainment doesn’t start before 10:00pm. For more information, call 4428-8665.
Wednesdays: W Doha. It’s Ladies Night at Crystal, where all ladies get three complimentary drinks from 10:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.! Check-in at Crystal for a special flight with international DJs. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.
Ladies Big Night Out
Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Big Mouth will kick off the night in Paloma from 9:00 p.m., followed by DJ Shadi. DJ Paul Mendez will be in Lava from 10:00 p.m. The centre door will be open, allowing you to pass between the two rooms as you wish. Unlimited free drinks for ladies at the bar in Paloma from 10:00 pm until late. QR 80 entrance for men; ladies enter free of charge. Membership required. For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.
After Work Vegas Style!
DAILY Jazz Up
Daily: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. A new haven for jazz lovers in the heart of Doha. The perfect spot to chill out in contemporary, yet intimate surroundings while listening to smooth tunes and indulging in quality drinks, creative cocktails and an extensive snacks menu. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com
Shisha Under the Stars
Daily: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Come have your favorite shisha under the stars and enjoy traditional Arabic Fare in the newly-opened Shisha Terrace. From 3:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QAR 65 per shisha; a la carte food and beverage menu available. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Happy Hours
Daily: Sharq Village & Spa. Throughout the month of February, enjoy two drinks for the price of one! At the Cigar Lounge from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and at Al Seef from 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 4425-6666.
Irish Harp
Daily: Sheraton Doha. Experience Ireland Wednesdays - Sundays: Grand Hyatt Doha. in the heart of Doha. Enjoy live music with Dunes Lounge is the place to be after a long the famous Chavela Duo Band. This month and exhausting day! Buy one drink and get try Spare Ribs Madness a la carte. For one free plus 50% discount on all snacks… more information, call 4485-4444. unbeatable offer along with Avis and KC performing live on Vegas style. From 5:00 DJ/VDJ Tony Schwery p.m. till 7:00 p.m. pm except Mondays and Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a lovely night out Tuesdays. For more information, call 4448under the stars at the rooftop bar, Sky View. Mashups with Paul 1280 or email dunes.ghdoha@hyatt.com Dine under the stunning Doha skyline with Mendez, DJ Shadi and the hotel’s scrumptious hors d’oeuvres and Suzee X mouth-watering desserts while listening to Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. The three Habanos Happy Hour Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton the best songs mixed by Doha’s newest DJ resident DJs presents their unique mashup Doha. Throughout the month of February to the scene. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. sounds at Lava with free drinks for ladies enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From For more information, call 4428-8204. from 8:00 p.m. till late. For more information, 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-4444. call 4484-8000. WEEKEND
Retro-Electro
Tuesdays: W Doha. Wanna dance? Now’s your chance! This is the night to start, with cool tunes and a wide range of 80s and 90s hits. And that’s not all - three drinks for ladies on the house from 11:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM: 26E78A27.
Admiral’s Happy Hour
Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Throughout the month of February enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Past, Present and Future
Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. DJ Paul Mendez takes you on a musical journey through decades of dance floor classics mixed with the latest club tunes. For more information, call 4484-4444.
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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS
DJ Roger Choueiry at 7 Thursdays: La Cigale. Welcome the weekend with the hottest party in town with DJ Roger Choueiry. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee; no minimum charge for Ladies! For more information, call 4428-8665 (Membership required).
Pure Crystal
Thursdays: W Doha. Let the night take over as international DJs play the best in eclectic house music. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.
Resident DJ Bruno Rochart @ Wahm
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays: W Doha. Bruno Rochart brings you the best grooves from European dance floors. Wed 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., Thurs and Fri 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Reserve your cabana by calling 4453-5135.
Pure House
Fridays: InterContinental Doha. DJ Suzee X plays only the latest house and techno all night long. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Carnival Party
Fridays: W Doha. Enjoy a carnival party at Crystal with the DJ’s special twist, elaborate tunes mixed with a sprinkling of Crystal magic. From 10:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.
Salsa & Candela
Fridays: Sharq Village & Spa. QR 85 per person inclusive of a welcome drink. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, call 4425-6666.
Friday Night Fever
Fridays: La Cigale.“7” presents a special DJ mix party with the renowned DJ, Roger Choueiry, on board. From 9:00pm till 2:00am. No entrance fee for ladies with one drink on the house ! For more information call 4428-8665 (Membership required).
Arabesque Saturdays: W Doha. Pure Arabian magic! The Lebanese one-man show, Fadi Khoury, will be performing all the latest Arabic tunes. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.
Six Nations Rugby
Saturdays and Sundays: InterContinental Doha. Join fellow fanatics as the games kick off! Early opening for every game, with special drinks throughout the matches. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Sip & Savour
Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha.Sip one, the second is on the house, together with complimentary Spice Market snacks. From 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5363.
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VALENTINE’S EVENTS Jazzy Valentine Night
Tue 14th: Oryx Rotana. Come enjoy some great live music with your friends or your special date; a night of Jazz music and a captivating ambiance. QR 514 per couple (basic package) or QR 814 per couple (premium package). For more information, call 4402-3333.
Madison Piano Bar
Mon 13th and Tue 14th: La Cigale. Offers an upbeat experience with the one-man-show Chadi EL Bacha. Delight your special Valentine on this evening of love with tailor–made specialties prepared to entice your taste buds. A special formula will be applied. For more information, call 4428-8665.
Sky View
Mon 13th and Tue 14th: La Cigale. Enjoy a night out under the stars while listening to the best songs mixed by resident DJ Tony Schwery. For more information, call 4428-8204.
Chinese & Japanese Lunch Escape Set
Starting from QR50.00
Lunch Made Easy
No Fuss, No Rush @ D’Chopstix
Choose from over 20 delicious Chinese & Japanese Sets @ D’Chopstix Every Sunday to Thursday at 11:30am - 3:00pm
4408 4230
Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence City Centre Doha P.O. Box 47601, Doha - Qatar Tel : +974 4408 4230 Fax : +974 4408 4008 Email : info@holidayvilladoha.com / sales@holidayvilladoha.com Website : www.holidayvilladoha.com
THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
ARTS & CULTURE
Greatest Hits of Classical Music
Sat 4th and Sun 5th:
Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Programe to be selected by Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www. qatarphilharmonicorchestra. org
Louise Bourgeois: Conscious and Unconscious Wed 1st – Wed 29th: QMA Gallery,
Building 10-Katara. The exhibition is open daily from 8:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m., and Fridays from 3:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information, email marketing@qma.org.qa or call 44028566. D Major. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org
Art Exhibition
Wed 1st – Wed 29th: Al Markhiya Gallery. Abdullah Murad and Ghassan Nana art exhibition. Saturdays – Thursdays 10:00 a.m. till noon, 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., Fridays 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information, call 444-8007 or 66008750.
Romeo & Juliet
Wed 15th – Thurs 16th: Drama Theatre,
Building 16, Katara. Katara, the Cultural Village have teamed up with Shakespeare 4 Kidz (S4K) to bring the residents of Doha the most spectacular show of Shakespeare’s classic love story; Romeo and Juliet. The shows will be open to schools on February 15th at 8:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and February 16th at 10:00 a.m. The general public will be able to enjoy the play on February 16th at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 44080981.
Crossing Boundaries Lecture Series Presents Crispin Jones
Wed 15th: The Atrium at Virginia Commonwealth University. Crispin Jones is a
London-based designer who founded Mr Jones Watches in 2007 with the aim of creating and producing watches that do more than just tell the time. He has a Masters in Computer Related Design and has combined this with his skills as an Interaction Designer to produce pieces that explore interesting aspects of our relationship and dependence on technology. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 44020555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu
OUT om K C E H .c C ppening
atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for
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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE
aLL THaT JaZZ By Victoria Scott
Jazz superstar Wynton Marsalis visited Doha recently to announce that he will be opening a world-class jazz venue at the new St Regis hotel.
A
merican Jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis is that rare combination; a hugely successful man who appears to be entirely without ego. When he walks into a room filled with journalists from around the Gulf, he looks almost surprised that we’ve all turned up. We’re here with good reason, however: Marsalis’ reputation precedes him.
sit back and rest on their laurels, but that is not Marsalis’ style. Passionate about spreading the word about the music he loves, he decided to give something back.
His accomplishments on both a professional and personal level are to be admired by all whether you're are a fan of jazz or not. Born in New Orleans, he was the second of six sons raised by poor but hard-working, aspirational parents. His father loved music and passed this love onto Wynton.
It has three performance spaces along with recording, broadcast, rehearsal and education facilities. Marsalis also developed an education programe which has introduced hundreds of thousands of children and adults to jazz.
His first public performance was at his local church. By the age of 14, he was performing with the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra. Later, he won a place at Juilliard in New York, and the rest is history. He’s the winner of nine Grammy awards. More impressively however, he is the only artist ever to win A Grammy for both jazz and classical records. In 1997, Marsalis became the first jazz musician to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music” Pulitzer Prize for Music, and in 2001, he became a UN Messenger of Peace. He has toured in 30 countries on every continent except Antarctica, and nearly five million copies of his recordings have been sold worldwide. Many enjoying success on this scale would
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In 1987, he co-founded a jazz program at the Jazz at Lincoln Center, a dedicated one-stop-shop for all things jazz.
Now Doha is going to benefit from some of the Marsalis magic. Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) has partnered with the St Regis Hotels to bring the Lincoln Center to Qatar. It is the first Lincoln Center outside of the United States, so it’s a huge coup for the hotel group. The brand new St Regis Hotel, located near Katara, will host a jazz club where visitors will be able to enjoy a meal and some of the finest jazz music from around the world. Marsalis promises to perform at the club as often as he can. It’s set to open in the first quarter of 2012, and will operate year round. The JALC team is confident it will be a success. “We’ve got to make sure we bring the right musicians over, and we’ll change things if they don’t work”, says Marsalis.
JALC hasn’t ruled out bringing in local musicians, too. “We have a concept called Total Jazz. We want to play it wherever it can be played, however it can be played. Local musicians are the ones who sustain the scene. We are always about community. " The St Regis has ambitious plans to open five clubs in five years, with Doha being the first. Omar Alfardan, President of Alfardan holdings, which owns the St Regis Doha, is delighted– he’s a huge jazz fan. “I’ve loved jazz since my childhood” he says. “I’ve travelled all around the world to concerts. I find jazz touches my soul. You don’t need to be born in the West to understand jazz. What Wynton wants to do here is to make jazz available to everyone.” JALC will also operate an educational programme which aims to bring a range of cultural opportunities to all of the people of Qatar, locals and expats alike. “We know that this music has the chance to transform people”, says Marsalis. “20 years of edu-
SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE
cating kids makes you serious about it. Our presence will be substantial here, because we like to work. All our musicians teach. We’re going to have a great time.” Marsalis is deeply serious about teaching. He remembers his first lesson, at the age of eight: “I think the sound I made was the worst thing you’ve ever heard in your life. My teacher just told me “that’s jazz”, whatever sound I made. I knew it didn’t sound good, but he said it did, so I just carried on.” Millions of jazz fans around the world are grateful for his teacher’s perseverance. But, I ask, surely not all children are as easy to teach as you? “I like to teach kids who
are not musicians at all”, he replies. “It’s easy. Very young kids just want to please adults, and they imitate. With kids you have to play and let them copy you, and always encourage them. You can’t mess this music up, it was born perfect. ”Marsalis also believes that a teacher’s relationship with his pupils is vital. “Every kid feels the love you have for them, that’s the first thing they check for. When they feel that, there isn’t anything they can’t do. And they’ll never forget you.”
jazz is a natural fit almost anywhere. We have a lot in common, we just have to discover it and hold it up for the world to see. ” Omar Alfardan agrees. “It’s a two way thing,” he says. “We influence you, you influence us. Twenty years ago in Doha, there wasn’t a single Qatari playing the piano. Now my daughter is a great pianist. If you’re willing to put some time into listening to jazz, you’ll get something out of it. This is a great music”, he says, smiling.
Some might say Jazz is not a natural fit in an Arab country, but Marsalis begs to differ. “Of course you don’t come to a new place and expect it to be tailor-made for you, but
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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE
born To Do It right By Laura Prior
Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra is quickly gaining a reputation as a world renowned orchestra - by actively assembling the crème-de-la-crème of musical talent from all corners of the globe to captivate local audiences in Doha. Co-principal flutist, Aleksandr Haskin, is a radiating example of QPO’s success in attracting the best musicians in the world here to Doha as he pours his lifetime’s experience and unequivocal love for the flute onto the Katara Opera House stage each week.
A
s I am escorted through the labyrinth that is the back-stage area of Katara’s Opera House, I find myself surrounded by a soundscape of footsteps, laughter and countless foreign accents all punctuated by colourful outbursts of tuning instruments. In a quieter dressing room, I am welcomed by a calm, cool figure as he winds down post-rehearsal. Aleksandr Haskin asks me outright ‘’do you like the diamond?’’ and I am drawn to a glimmering gem sitting in the crown of his flute – exquisitely finishing off an instrument I have always admired, but making this one that little bit more special. "It was a gift", he smiles. The 28 year old Haskin, from Minsk, Belarus, begins by telling me, ‘’I did my first concert when I was three." I was shocked at first to hear this news but then, coming from a house where there were two pianos in each room, why wouldn’t he be performing from such a young age?" My Mom was a wonderful pianist and she taught the local choir, so I started to sing
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and play the piano from the age of two.’’ Coming from a musical background it was a natural progression for Aleksandr to study music and at the age of twelve - he became interested in the flute.
‘’I was looking for a new teacher at the time. The right teacher can make all the difference when you are a musician, and working with Ransom was perfect for me,’’ ‘’I always admired the sound of the flute: – it reminded me of the human voice. So, I gave it a try. I put my mouth to the instrument and it immediately produced a sound. This doesn’t usually happen in young kids as the technique is quite difficult. Then
I knew the flute was my instrument – it chose me.’’ From that day onwards, flute in hand, Aleksandr perused an impressively relentless path of music studies leading to both MA (2007) and PhD (2010) degrees from the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory. Even from a young age, Haskin was conscious of his all-encompassing desire to be the best. ‘’To me, if you are not the best (or one of) then there is no point.’’ He started entering into competitions being held throughout Europe and that is where he gained another invaluable element towards his musical education. ‘’I would go to these competitions not necessarily with the intention to win, but to watch the other participants closely. I would analyse their every move, even taking notes, and soak up every aspect of their technique. I grew a lot from doing this and so I kept improving.’
SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE
It was while participating in a competition in 2005 that Aleksandr was spotted by Ransom Wilson of the prestigious Yale University School of Music (USA). Wilson wanted to mentor him and of course, he accepted. ‘’I was looking for a new teacher at the time. The right teacher can make all the difference when you are a musician, and working with Ransom was perfect for me,’’ he recalls. A year scholarship-based study at Yale followed, adding fuel to the fire of his passion for studying music. After a steely focus on his education, Aleksandr was soon in a position to unleash his talents on audiences around the world. From 2007-2008 he was solo piccoloist of the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra in Moscow and also went on to become principal flutist of the Moscow Conservatory Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Gennady Rozhdestvensky, before coming to Qatar three years ago.
But what has fed this young man’s insatiable appetite for music? ‘’I want to make people happy. If they enjoy my performance and are left with a happy feeling, then I am happy, too. Music is a form of happiness, it is that simple.’’ Showing respect still for music, Aleksandr is keen to pass his talent onto other young people. ‘’Unfortunately, the youth of today do not have the same interest in classical music. I want to try and encourage future musicians by conducting master classes – passing on some of what I have learned to them. I have already done so in Russia, Belarus, Iran and in the States at CarnegieMellon University, Pittsburgh; Colburn School and University of South California, Los Angeles; Levine School in Washington DC and Missouri State University. I have also recently contacted local schools in Qatar to generate interest here.’’
It is clear that Aleksandr has much to give as a rising star in classical music. As a winner of many international competitions including most notably, the Young Concert Artist International Audition in New York, (2009) he is now an artist and representative of Burkart flute company, and has performed solo concerts at Kennedy Center, Washington DC; Kaufmann Center, New York, and the Great Hall of the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory. Aleksandr dreams of one day soloing at his ultimate venue - Carnegie Hall in New York. Having heard his remarkable story from toddler to respected international performer and role-model at just 28, I suspect that day may not be very far off.
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Shakespeare 4
SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE
t e i l u J d n a o e m Ro
Kidz
presents
This month Katara Cultural Village presents a five star theatrical production of Romeo and Juliet. For the first time ever in Qatar, Shakespeare 4 Kidz will perform one of literature’s biggest classics.
K
atara, the Cultural Village teamed up with Shakespeare 4 Kidz (S4K) to bring the residents of Doha the most spectacular show of Shakespeare’s classic love story, Romeo and Juliet. The play is scheduled to debut on February 15th; tickets for the exciting musical are now available at Virgin Mega stores. The shows will be open to schools only on February 15th at 8:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and February 16th at 10:00 a.m. The general public will be able to enjoy the play on February 16th at 6:00 p.m. at the Drama Theatre, Building 16, Katara. The universal themes and stories of Shakespeare are re-imagined using musical theatre in a way that is both accessible and entertaining for youth. This creative approach to learning through the arts has brought rave reviews to the theatre company from young viewers, parents, and educators alike. The UK based company, formed 15 years
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ago consists of 20 professional actors who will perform the unparalleled musical adaption of Romeo and Juliette. “This initiative is an excellent opportunity to engage youth in edutainment and we are proud to host this event in our state of the art facilities. This event is another testament of our vision to educate and entertain whilst building cultural bridges,” Dr. Emad Sultan, Cultural Affairs Director said, S4K have toured around the globe, introducing millions of young people to the magical world of Shakespeare and recently performed in Bahrain and Dubai. Musical adaptations the group perform include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, The Tempest and even Hamlet. Shakespeare 4 Kidz brings some of Shakespeare’s best work to life, removing the barrier of understanding the Elizabethan language, creating a unique edutainment experience.
TICKETING INFORMATION To book school tickets please contact: Maha Moussa, Marketing Specialist Tel: 44080981 Email: m.moussa@katara.net. GENERAL PUBLIC TICKETING Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore one day only on February the 16th. PRICES QR100 - QR150
ARTS & CULTURE LISTINGS
Smadj's SOS Tour
Fri 10th: Qatar National Theater. The Institute Francais du Qatar presents Smadj in concert. This will be a joyful, laidback blend of Arabic and European music feelings; a magic mix of electronic music with gypsy, jazz and oriental sounds. Starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information email info@institutfrancais-qatar.com or call 4493-0862/3.
Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade
Sat 11th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org
The Interior Design Department Presents a Lecture by Ali Alraouf
Tue 28th: The Atrium at Virginia Commonwealth University. “Pearls, Harrods and FIFA: (De)-Constructing Future Utopia, The Narrative of Doha, Qatar”. This lecture will focus on Doha as an emerging knowledge and creative city and examine Doha’s elaborate attempt to construct a new contemporary identity within the knowledge-based urban development paradigm. It will trace the change from recourses and industrial economies to a creative and knowledge economy as it provokes an intellectual dialogue to articulate theoretical and practical approaches to face pressing architectural and urban issues. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar. vcu.
Qatar Quilt Guild
Wed 29th: Clubhouse of Al-Jazi 2. Monthly quilt meetings are held on the last Wednesday. Join in and make wall hangings, blankets, clothes, etc. For more information, e-mail qatarquiltguild@gmail.com
DAILY Visual & Studio Arts
Daily: IAID. The visual and studio arts program is a progressive course from Beginners, Advance, Fine Arts 1 and 2 that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception and portraits with the use of various art mediums. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org
THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
COMMUNITY
Doha Debates
Mon 6th: Friends of the Environment Center. “Environment and Freedom of Speech". From 6:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Doha Debates Series Producer Tanya Sakzewski. For more information visit www.sustainableqatar.com
Doha Mums Book Swap
Wed 1st and Wed 15th: Costa Coffee, Pearl-Qatar. If you have a passion for reading, or just like to browse through a magazine all you need to do is bring a book or magazine to swap. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com
Gulf History in the Early Islamic Period and the 19th Century Flea Market from Syriac and Sat 4th: Museum of Islamic Art Park Bazaar. From 12:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more French Sources information, email marketing@qma.org.qa or call 4402-8566
Mon 27th: Conference Hall, Qatar University. A specialized seminar on Gulf History is being organized in cooperation between the College of Arts and Sciences Department of Humanities at Qatar University and the Centre for the advanced study of the Arab World in the UK. Taking part in the seminar will be Professor John Healey, and Dr. Philip Sadgrove. From 9:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information, call 44034703 or email mzweiri@qu.edu.qa
Materials Science and Engineering Symposium 2012 Tue 28th: Hamad Bin Khalifa
University - Student center. Organised as a forum to discuss the latest advancements in corrosion protection as well as corrosion prediction and risk assessment. It will serve as an excellent venue to share knowledge gained by corrosion researchers and exploring the possibilities for future research collaborations on corrosion related issues that are pertinent to Qatar. From 8:00 a.m. till 3:40 p.m. For more information, call 44034378 or 5506-1075.
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atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
the Guinness World Record of Hide and Seek As told to Jorge Granda
Senior International Business Management students at Stenden University of Qatar, are hosting an event to break the Guinness World Record for hide and seek.
T
he students at Stenden University are aiming to turn a simple university project into one that could have a major impact on the community. Breaking the Guinness Record of Hide & Seek event is designed to bring together students from the universities and international high schools in Qatar with the purpose of raising funds and awareness on the dire situation in the Horn of Africa; Somalia specifically. What the students are planning goes beyond the simple act of dropping money in a donation box; they are planning on hosting and breaking the Guinness record for the largest game of "Hide and Seek" in Doha, Qatar. The current record is a total of 508 participants, and the students want to set a new unbreakable record of 800 participants. Rules of the Game The rules of the game require that the area of play not exceed five hectares. Participants are required to stay in the area of play otherwise, they risk being disqualified. Hide and Seek for those who are unfamiliar with the game is quite simple. There is one seeker who must
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locate the people who are in hiding. They can hide most anywhere; behind a bush, a building, or any object that obstructs the seeker’s view. Once the seeker finds a person in hiding the seeker must tag the person and then they are out of the game. There is a safe place that the hiders can run to before being tagged by the seeker. If they reach this area, they are safe. In each round of the game in Doha, there will be only one seeker. The seeker will close his/ her eyes for five minutes allowing time for those who are in hiding to find a suitable and safe place away from the seeker. Each round will last approximately 15 minutes with 10 minutes allocated for the game. The first hider who makes it to the safe place is automatically the next round’s seeker. Only the people who make it to the safe place in a round are eligible to continue through to the next stage. How can the general public get involved As the first stage, the students are focusing on the youth as participants; that is university and
high school students as well as some junior high school students. They are arranging for participants from these venues. Event tickets will go on sale to the general public through Virgin Megastore approximately 10 days. Everyone is invited to participate or simply show up and witness the grand attempt of breaking the world record. What time and where The event is set to take place on Friday, February 10, 2012 at Katara Cultural Village. The event will start with registration from 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. The actually game will start at 4:00 p.m. and it will run until 5:30 p.m. The event will finish with the announcement of the result, speeches, gifts, and eventually celebrating with some amazing local talents on stage. Entry Fee QR 50 for 17 and above and QR 30 for below 17
SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
QATAR:
Rise of a Global Sports Capital By Munazza Sayed
“A mind stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” The days between the 2nd and 7th January proved to be a heady kick- start to the new year, as ExxonMobil helped me embark on the awe- inspiring educational venture of a lifetime. Dangling down my neck from its lime strap, my grass green ExxonMobil batch always felt like a magical medallion that opened doors and allowed easy access. And it never failed to make me smile. Printed on its very center was my name with the word Media below it. The power that single word yielded was amazement in itself.
Federer, then proceeded to question him about one strength of Federer’s that he would incorporate in his game if given a chance. “Uh, lot of things…” Nadal mused thoughtfully, “But I will choose the serve.” But certainly, the most indelible part of the whole experience was being given the opportunity to attend various press conferences with one of the greatest player to have ever set foot on court-- the tennis maestro, Roger Federer. When asked once about what he thought of Federer, Nadal had chosen the perfect adjective for his description— complete, he had said, in all aspects. Consequently, Swiss genius’s sudden decision to back off from the match came as a shocking disappointment to all avid fans, who were hoping for a NadalFederer on- court battle.
The very first player I interviewed was JoWilfred Tsonga. Presently placed sixth on the ATP ranking, Tsonga had reached the 2011 semi- finals in Doha, before loosing to Federer. By bagging the ATP title this year, the French player, who rightly describes himself as a “dangerous competitor,” has skillfully added yet another feather to his professional cap. In a full- fledged press conference at the stadium’s media center, I questioned Tsonga about the most important My question to Federer was the same as match of his career thus far. that to Tsonga. Federer’s most important Then, he had just made it to the semi- finals match, I learnt, was the Wimbledon of 2007, “where the world number one persisted and was looking forward to the championafter three hours and 45 minutes of breathship. “The most important match of my taking tennis.” At the press conference, career,” he chuckled, after a brief pause, Federer went five years down memory lane, “was probably when I was seven because recalling that the match did not immediately that was when I first played tennis and bring about any sudden changes in his knew I liked it.” On the third day, I had the career but it certainly proved to be a turning good fortune of attending a press conference for the tennis heartthrob and currently point that enthused him with fresh new verve and confidence. Finally, on the 7th, ranked ATP no. 2 player, Rafael Nadal. His relentless fighting spirit and astounding I attended a press conference with the confidence has made this tennis sensation eminent Board of Directors of the Qatar a householdname. In my interviewed with Tennis Federation (QTF) and the honorary Nadal, I mentioned his interesting rivalry Heir apparent of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin with Roger Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The interview 1Quote by United Supreme Court Justice, panel comprised of a select few journalists, mainly from the Arab mainstream media, Oliver Wendel Holmes
the Qatar Tribune and the Associated Press. Former tennis player and the present visionary president of QTF, Mr. Nasser Ghanim Al Khelaifi, began by expressing his heartfelt gratitude towards the media for their consistent support, highlighting this combined effort as “our biggest motivation to organize future tournaments.” 2BBC
Sports, Federer Wins Historic Fifth
Title I Questioned him over the viability of such high profile sporting events propelling Qatar towards modernization as well as the subsequent social impact on young Arab men and women. Evidently, the main purpose of the ExxonMobil- QTF sponsorship is to provide for an inspirational platform and an uplifting opportunity for all tennis fans, particularly, the “Qatari people and kids.” Finally, Mr. Nasser concluded with the following words of optimism: “It’s gonna be back. And, it’s gonna be big.” Looking back now, I think the most important part of this intensive learning experience was that it enabled me to soak up a kaleidoscopic variety of new knowledge and information, sufficiently allowing for my mind to expand “beyond its old dimensions.” These past few days, I—a regular freshman at university-- found myself working shoulder to shoulder with professionals, interviewing top officials and celebrities like Federer and Nadal and experiencing a voluptuous time of prospects and opportunities. And that was the beauty of it all. 41
COMMUNITY LISTINGS
New Arrivals Coffee
Tuesdays: Hyatt Plaza. Join the Doha
Qatar National History Group
Wed 1st: DESS. Dr Rob Carter will give a presentation on Pearl Fishing in the Arabian Gulf. Starts at 7:00 p.m. I.D. is essential for security. For more information, email pr-representative@qnhg.org
Depression Support Group
Wed 1st: Various. For those of you who are feeling low and do not know what is wrong, this group will by no means be a cure but it will give you someone to talk to and let you know where to get professional help. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. Locations change monthly so check out the website www. dohamums.com
Cooking Classes
Sat 4th and Sat 11th: Grand Hyatt Doha. Contact them to know more how they can bring out the chef in you! For more information, call 4448-11282 or email biscotti.ghdoha@hyatt.com
Breastfeeding Support Group
Tue 7th: Various. Some find it tough, others find it easy ... it’s nice to meet other moms who are doing the same. Babies and their siblings of any age are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. From 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums. com or email events@dohamums.com.
Concert Series: Yousif Islam
Tue 16th: Museum of Islamic Art Park. For more information email marketing@qma. org.qa or call 44028566.
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Toy Swap Event
Sat 25th: Al Faisaliya compound Al Waab. Bring “outgrown” toys and swap them for new ones. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email: events@ dohamums.com
Garden Club
Mon 27th: The One Coffee Shop, Landmark. Join the Garden Club to talk about all things green! They have regular presenters and garden tours. This month, they will visit the Garden Souqs. From 10:30 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com
EVERY WEEK Fertility Support Group Sundays: Al Soudan (near Billboard
Mums in welcoming prospective members to Doha at the Café de Chalet! It is located near the “middle entrance” of Hyatt Plaza, and at the far end of Kiddy Zone (the enclosed toy store “kiosk”). Kids are treated to free play on a bouncy castle courtesy of Kiddy Zone. From 9:30 a.m. No RSVP necessary. For more information, visit www. dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com
Doha Mums Pearl Coffee Break Wednesdays: The Pearl-Qatar. Calling
all moms on The Pearl to go to HaagenDazs, near Tower 4. From 3:00 p.m. till 4.30 p.m. for a social catch up. Colouring books and pencils will be provided for the little ones. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@ dohamums.com
Expectant & New Mums Coffee Thursdays: Various. Join other new
moms and moms-to-be to talk “all things baby!” Doha Mums hosts a coffee from 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. The location varies, so check the Doha Mums website for dates and details. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com
Intersection). Are you experiencing a challenging fertility journey and need someone to talk to in a similar position? From time to time, guest speakers will be Cooking Class – invited along to provide information and Dinner For Your be available for Q&A in a more intimate environment than the formality of the Loved One consulting room. For more information, visit Sun 12th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Learn how www.fertilityA@dohamums.com to cook a simple yet exquisite Italian dinner at Porcini for your loved one with Chef Ricardo. 10:30 a.m. followed by lunch. QR Sugar Sweet Life 265. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Workshops
Mondays: Six Senses Spa, Sharq Village & Spa. Join this workshop and learn more from leading health professionals about a variety of health and wellness issues with a small group of like-minded people. You can be sure to get up-to-date information that can help you to live a healthier life. Starts at 6:30 p.m. Free for members, QR 50 for non-members. For more information, call 4425-6999 or email wellness-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com
For more communit y listings, check out
www.qatarha
ppening.com
Kat ara Beach Open for New Members By Khalifa Saleh Haroon
When it comes to making waves and enjoying the sun, Katara Beach can’t be beaten. Located within the walls of the Cultural Village, it is close to the city, it has ample parking, nearby public restrooms, and an outdoor cafÊ and ice cream parlour just a few steps away from the sand. What else could you ask for? The beach recently opened its memberships to the public. Katara is positioning itself to be a remarkable cultural hub that offers all of its visitors a variety of different cultural and art-related activities with the added bonus of fun in the sun activities through a private beach. As a whole, Katara, is the place destined to bring together both the past and the present while highlighting all the country has to offer. The Katara beach, an amazing piece of sandy real estate, is dedicated to allowing visitors the pleasure of enjoying a myriad of water sport activities and private lessons or the simple option of just relaxing and enjoying the spectacular views the Gulf waters have to offer.
How to become a member:
If you want to become a member of the Katara Beach simply select the membership that suits your needs: (This membership is for beach access only) Private one year membership
Membership fees
Single Couple Family
QR 3,500 QR 6,000 QR 7,000
Private 6 months membership
Membership fees
Single Couple Family
QR 2,000 QR 3,000 QR 4,000
Children above 16 years will be treated as adults and will pay a single fee of QR 2,000 for 6 months and or QR 3,500 for one year. There are ample chairs and umbrellas available on a first come, first served basis. No other benefits entitlement with the semester membership fee Allowed to use water sports activities with normal applicable fee. For more information and for inquiries, please call Katara at 4408 2027
WATER SPORT ACTIVITIES Operating Hours ( 9 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ) Activities Motorized Boat Ride Water Skiing Water Skiing Wakeboarding Wakeboarding Knee Boarding Fishing Trip Parasailing Banana Ride Single Ride Double Ride Multi Ride
DURATION
PRICE (QR)
30 min 15 min 30 min 15 min 30 min 15 min 4 hrs Trip 15 min 15 min 15 min 15 min
120 50 75 50 75 50 750 100 100 50 75 100
Activities Non-Motorized Wind Surfing Hobie Cat Sailing Sea Pedal Boat Kayak/Canoe
DURATION
PRICE (QR)
60 min 60 min 60 min 30 min 30 min
100 150 100 50 50
DURATION
PRICE (QR)
30 min 60 60 min 30 min
100 150 150 100
Lessons Wakeboarding Windsurfing Sailing Skiing
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KIDS CLUB LISTINGS
KIDS CLUB
Heart Shaped Valentine’s Cookie Class Sun 19th: Carluccio’s. Children of all
ages are invited to join in heart shaped cookie decorating fun. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. RSVP is essential. For more information, email events@dohamums. com or visit www.dohamums.com
Valentine’s Day Chocolate Cookie Classes
Sat 4th and Sat 11th: Mövenpick Hotel. Children will delight in decorating heartfelt and homemade chocolate cookies. Two sessions each day 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. RSVP is essential. For more information, email events@dohamums.com or visit www.dohamums.com
Make Your Relaxation Fun for Kids Daily: Kempinski Doha. Transcend,
transform and sense the moment at Pure Leisure & Wellness Centre, in peace. Designed for your health & relaxation get a 60 minute Swedish massage, two full day passes to Pure Leisure & Wellness Centre and a 30 minute Spa Oceana Hydrotherapy treatment for two. Leave your children (2 children max.) at Kempinski Kids Club during four hours of serenity for only QR 1,499. For more information, call 4405-3307 or email wellness.doha@ kempinskicom
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Dahl Al Hamam Park Outdoor Play
Saturdays: The park boasts a giant shaded playground and there is something for every child to enjoy. Many parents bring trikes, scooters, and bikes, too, as the sidewalks are perfect for young riders. There's no need to RSVP. 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com
KIDS CLUB LISTINGS
EVERY WEEK Pool Playgroup
Mondays: InterContinental Hotel. The little ones will enjoy the shaded pool and the older kids can explore Doha’s longest private beach. Morning session is from 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. and the afternoon session is from 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com
romantic
Children’s Library
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: The American Community School. Explore the world of literature with your kids. The library will be opened three days a week and you can come and read, browse, borrow and return books! For more information, visit www.dohamums.com
Rays Reef Fun Time
Tuesdays and Sundays: Royal Plaza. Located on the 2nd floor, from 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday and from 3:00 p.m. on Sundays. It’s a fun and clean area with lots of options for your kid(s) to choose from, suitable for different age groups. RSVP is required. For further details please visit www.dohamums.com or email: events@dohamums.com
Arts & Crafts
Tuesdays – Thursday: Doha Desert Crafts. Develop your child’s fine motor skills, creativity and concentration with art and craft classes. 3:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 3307-9000 or email fusionfaces@ gmail.com
Gondolania Soft Play Area Playgroup
Wednesdays: Villaggio. It’s great for kids of all ages! From 2:30 p.m. Only QR 15 for as long as you want. Turn right at the entrance and follow it round and you will see some trampolines and an enormous soft play area, that’s where the group will be! For further details please visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums. com
february
KIDS CLUB LISTINGS
Kids Arabic Reading Group
Saturdays: Library at ACS. This group is suitable for kids who can read and understand simple sentences in Arabic. From 3:30 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums. com or email events@dohamums.com
DAILY Let’s Party at Kempinski Kids Club Daily: Kempinski Doha. All things are possible in the
Kempinski Kids Club, from winter wonderland to treasure hunting to face painting and whatever else your heart desires. Customise your very own private party whether it’s for a birthday or any other special occasion, come and celebrate with us. For more information, call 4405-3308, email kidsclub.doha@ kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha
Baby and Toddler Swimming Classes
Daily: Doha College. Develop your child’s confidence in the water the natural way. By engaging your child’s natural ability and affinity with the water, we offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming. For children from four months to four years old. For more information, call 4411-7911 or visit www.qmotion. com.qa
THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
FOOD & DINING
Australian Chef’s Table
Wed 15th: Oryx Rotana Inclusive of a palatable four course set menu perfectly paired with a selection of the fantastic whites and spectacular reds, enjoy a four course menu created by our guest Chef “Mike Taff”. For just QR 295 per person you can experience the ultimate in gastronomic imagination at the core of Doha's leading specialty restaurant. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Fusion Set Dinner
Thurs 2nd – Sat 25th: Holiday Villa. Lagenda international restaurant is offering selectable choices of fusion cuisine to cater for all taste buds. From 12:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4408-4220.
Chef's Table by Chef Murhaf
Tue 28th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Participating guests are invited into the show kitchen at La Mer to see Chef Murhaf demonstrate the preparation and cooking of their four-course Syrianthemed dinner. This unique gourmet experience is paired with carefully selected vinos. At the end of the evening, each guest will receive a recipe book as a gift to remember. From 7:00 p.m. QR 450 per person. For reservations, call 4484- 8000.
Culinary Quiz Night at Picasso's Saturday Session
Wed 22nd: Ramada Plaza. Back by popular demand! 5 rounds of yummy food and fun questions all about what you're eating and drinking. The price includes vino, and some surprise drinks along the way! QR 250 per person. For more information call 4428-1555.
Sat 25th: W Doha. Chilled beats turns flaming food Al la carte BBQ menu at the Mojito Bar. From 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.
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SPOTLIGHT ON DINING
Wok Mee By Alex Corey Photography by John Romuald Ruiz
Nestled in the Hub of West Bay in Mövenpick Towers is the noodle house Wok Mee (“mee” translating to “noodle” and wok, well, translating to wok). Though offering a variety of dishes that span the pop cultural culinary delights of a large region, it still manages to offer a surprisingly authentic experience. When we first enter the restaurant, we are greeted with an eclectic “Zen-like” atmosphere. The lighting is ideal; it is ample enough to comfortably interact, but still a very calming level. The most wonderful thing I notice is that there is no smoke to impede my enjoyment of all of the subtle nuances of my meal. The restaurant (and much of the hotel) is a smoke free environment and is actually enforced. The aforementioned eclectic feel is due to the seating. I notice two distinct seating arrangements. The first is a fairly standard (western) seating arrangement of four chairs and a table, though with some Asian influence like bamboos chairs and of course, chop sticks. The other arrangement at the back of the restaurant is a series of large communal like benches and tables, located next to the open concept kitchen, which is staying true to the “noodle house” tenet of food being a communal activity. Also staying within this theme is the way that the dishes are served. The menu 48
encourages a group of people to discuss what each other wants, as the food is served “family style” and will undoubtedly be shared (stolen?) throughout the meal. I have my chopsticks ready to defend. The first thing that was taken care of was our thirst. The waitress recommends a ginger mock tail that actually catches me by surprise. Even expecting a flavorful concoction, I still find it is astonishingly invigorating and full of life. To start we order dim sum, Thai fish cakes and Vietnamese spring rolls. The spring
“How did they get duck this fresh here”? rolls arrive first, pre cut into manageable pieces and literally overflowing with veggies. It is incredibly light and healthy tasting and has a sincere crispy freshness to it. It is as if someone has wrapped up a small garden in a thin (not greasy at all) shell and
presented it to us on a platter. The dim sum is also quite good, the chicken being our particular favorite. Texture is very important to me, and the dim sum is spot on. The fish cakes are a revelation and are as delicious as they are simple. Even as I add sweet chili sauce, the distinct (and a little spicy) fish cakes retains its’ position on my palate, not being drowned out at all by the flavorful sweet chili. For our main course, we ordered a dizzying array of food – far too much, I’m sure, but narrowing down the choices was simply too difficult as everything on the menu was inviting. I will be tackling Japanese “Yaki Soba” and wok fried beef tenderloin in black pepper sauce. The other members of my party order Singapore style lobster, steamed Red Snapper with Hammour and egg noodles served with roasted duck.
SPOTLIGHT ON DINING
The “Yaki Soba” is wok fried noodles with chicken. The chicken has just the faintest of whispers of char grilled flavor and the overall dish has a sort of sweet tang to it, that is irresistible. I also have to note that I am noticing something about Chef Somsak’s cuisine. It is not overstated or pretentious in anyway. The ingredients all have their say, and there is no arguing, bickering or attention seeking for any one part of a dish. Each element adds it bit without overshadowing the others. My colleagues also remark on this incredible achievement of balance. The lobster is served overflowing with succulent pieces of lobster generously coated in a black pepper sauce. The lobster provides the texture here, and the black pepper sauce provides the flavor. The steamed red snapper is reminiscent of a bright day that leads into a salty sunset at your local fishing wharf. Beautifully prepared, cooked and served. The wok-fried beef is transcendent. Small, thin pieces of juicy tenderloin are coated in a black pepper sauce that does not detract from the delectable beef and there is a modicum of “bite” for a finish. It is a favorite at the table, and I find myself defending it vehemently from the swooshing
chop sticks from the rest of the party. The egg noodles with roasted duck are sublime. It is served with baby cailan and enoki mushrooms. Now, the dish (as pretty much everything we have had) is well put together and even without the duck would be great; But the duck is amazing. The first thing out of my colleague’s mouth is, “How did they get duck this fresh here”? My colleague grew up on a farm and was accustomed to fresh duck and he simply fell in love with the almost buttery duck. Not only is the duck fresh, but it is cooked a non pareil. The best duck any of us have had in town. Now we are on to dessert. The unchallenged favorite is lightly battered and deeply friend apple and banana served with a silky smooth vanilla bean ice cream I highly recommend it. The meal has left us all full, and well satiated (and very satisfied!), but not in an uncomfortable way. The ingredients are fresh, simple and not as greasy as I usually come across. If the atmosphere initially de-stresses your senses, then it is the food that allows you to leave and carry that sense of calm with you, at least until work the next day!
WOK MEE FACTS: Timings:
Open 7 days a week, 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m
Dress Code:
Smart Casual
Average meal price:
QR 100 - QR 150
Reservations:
Available
Family section:
Available
Live entertainment:
Not Available
Take away:
Available
Smoking or non smoking:
Non smoking
Vino:
No
Telephone No:
4496-6600
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SPOTLIGHT ON DINING
Al Mourjan Food Corner
Baked Tomatoes with Method the couscous according to the Couscous and Herbs • Cook packet instructions, fluff with a fork Ingredients
150g / 1 cup couscous 12 medium tomatoes 100ml / 7 tbsp olive oil 3 scallions (spring onions), finely chopped 2 red chilis, seeds removed and finely chopped 1 tbsp basil, finely chopped 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped 1 tbsp dill Salt and freshly ground pepper Lettuce leaves, to serve
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and set aside. • Heat the oven to 200C (400F / Gas Mark 6). • Cut the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the seeds. Discard the seeds and chop the core flesh finely. • Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a pan and gently fry the scallions (spring onions) until soft. Add the chili and chopped tomato cores and cook for 2 minutes. • Stir the scallion mixture into the couscous, add the dill, herbs and season with salt and pepper. • Brush the tomatoes inside and out with the remaining oil. Spoon the couscous mixture into the tomatoes, replace the tops and place on a baking sheet. • Bake for 15-20 minutes and serve on lettuce leaves with the pan juices spooned over.
Ashraf A. Raad, chief executive and cuisine concept chef at Al Mourjan, tells us how to make Baked Tomatoes with Couscous and Herbs this month. Enjoy!
SPOTLIGHT ON DINING
Taste & Fun 2012 “What’s to eat?” It’s become an all too common refrain in our lives - home from a long day staring forlornly into an empty fridge with our fingers poised over the pizza delivery speed-dial. But apply that same phrase to the “Taste and Fun” 2012 festival and “What’s to eat?” just became the hot question on everyone’s lips.
Q
atar is quickly establishing itself as a food capital in the Middle East with a growing and diverse population bringing a taste of global cuisine to the region. Stomachs will growl and tastebuds will tingle as this year’s event, held from February 8 to 11 behind the Doha Exhibition Centre in Al Dafna, promises to be bigger and better -- so bring your appetites and some elasticwaist pants. Festival-goers can indulge in signature dishes from over 65 restaurants, hotels and cafes around Doha, with Mexican, European, Asian and Arabic fine dining treats to make mouths water. For the first time there will also be a national culinary showcase featuring the cuisine of Japan. The “Japanese Corner” honours the 40th anniversary of relations between Qatar and Japan with chefs from Tokyo and the Japanese Embassy on site preparing dishes. Afraid you’ll eat too much and have to be rolled home? Burn off some calories dancing
to a live DJ and jazz band throughout the afternoon, then head back for seconds. There will also be a children’s play area with games and face-painting as well as a chance to vote for the “Best Food” served up during the festival. If you’re one of those people who, after a great meal out at a restaurant, find themselves waking up in the middle of the night re-living what your tastebuds have just savoured, you’re in luck. Cooking demonstrations by some of Doha’s top chefs will give you the tips and tricks to re-create a dish that will blow your family and friends away. With free festival entry and offerings ranging from QR5, QR10 and QR15 per plate, “Taste and Fun” 2012 is an affordable way to enjoy the best multicultural cuisine Doha has to share. If you’re heading out to “Taste and Fun” 2012 this year, get in touch with us on Twitter (@qatarhappening) or Facebook and tell us what you loved best!
Event Times: Wednesday February 8: Festival starting atr 2 pm with the official opening welcome happening between 5 to 7 pm. Thursday February 9
12 pm to 10:30 pm
Friday February 10
1 pm to 10:30pm
Saturday February 11
12 pm to 10:30 pm
Location:
Behind Doha Exhibition Centre in Al Dafna
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
Al Kut Café Waffle Promotion
Wed 1st – Tue 28th: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. A variety of sweet and salty waffles served to your taste. Specialties are tomato and mozzarella waffles and caramel and cream waffles. From 10:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 4434- 3203 or email: sdesilva@wyndham.com
Acoustic Nights
ONE OF A KIND Italian Flavours
Wed 1st – Fri 19th: Millennium Hotel. Laughter, Italian spirit and flying pizza are on the menu! As Chef Manolo Mosconi will take over the oven station at Cosmo and create some magic! Lunch and dinner. For more information, call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com
Australian Flavours
Win a Car!
Fri 10th and Tue 14th: Oryx Rotana. If you are looking for a great day out with friends, then do not miss the Australian food festival at Choices! Along with seeing the celebrity chef Mike Taff, live on stage. A Brunch on Friday 10th and a Steak Night on Tuesday 14th. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Sushi Mania
Wed 15th: W Doha. Rendez Vous comes with a special valentine’s day theme. From 7pm to 9pm the bar comes alive with live DJ and fun activities. Lots of amazing offers of two for the price of one along with free tapas and red rose for all ladies upon arrival. For more information, call 4453-5303 or email contact@lamaisonducaviar.net
Wed 1st – Tue 28th: Ramada Plaza. Come and dine in The Italian Job between November 15th and February 28th and enter a “cinquecento” draw to become the proud owner of a brand new 2011 Fiat 500. For every QR 100 spent, guests will receive one raffle voucher to enter the draw, which will take place on February 29th, 2012. For more information, call 4428-1555.
Wed 1st – Tue 28th: Sharq Village & Spa. Sushi doesn’t come any fresher than at Al Dana. There will be a fresh sushi station all month and all-you-can-eat sushi on Mondays from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 135 per person. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com
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Thurs 2nd – Sat 25th: Sealine Beach Resort. During the weekends of February, Sealine Beach resort invites guests for inspiring acoustic nights at its signature restaurant, the Lagoon Ristorante. Melodic guitar tunes join a golden voice to create a magical ambience for those who wish to complement the romance of the season with tasty culinary treats, be it a choice from a well designed menu or a generous pizza treat. For more information, call 4476-5299 or 4476-5252 or email doh.sea.marketing@merweb.com
Rendez-Vous
Vino Dinner at Bentley’s Grill
Sun 19th: Ramada Plaza. A representative from Lion Nathan, the premium Australian vino company, will talk guests through the different vinos offered at the 5 course dinner. QR 500 per person. For more information, call 4428-1555.
EVERY WEEK Grill Night
Sundays: W Doha. Steak connoisseurs and red-meat lovers converge upon Market by Jean-Georges to savor their prize cuts of tender meat, fowl and seafood every Sunday night. Char-grilled or seared, rare or well done: have it your way with your choice of sauce and side dish. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Seafood Night
Mondays : Millenniium Hotel. Stir, Sizzle and Saute at Cosmo. Seafood flavours not to be missed! From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com
Asian Night
Mondays: Oryx Rotana. Take a culinary journey around Asia at Choices restaurant. Expert Thai, Indonesian and Philippine chefs prepare an exquisite buffet of authentic Far Eastern cuisine for QR 185 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 260 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Italian Night
Mondays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Savour the delicacies of the Italian cuisine, choosing from a wide array of antipasti, live pasta station, pizzas and Italian cheeses. Get a feel of “La Dolce Vita” for QR 195 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.Mövenpick-doha.com
Meat the Grills
Mondays and Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. Eat as much souvlaki BBQ as you can by the outdoor terrace! Enjoy an open buffet with fresh cold mezzedes and salads, complemented by desserts. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 165 per person. For reservations, call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444 or email mykonos@icdoha.com
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
International Buffet
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays to Saturdays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. The scrumptious buffet at Grand Gourmet offers different cuisines from around the world, such as Italian cuisine Saturdays, Far Eastern cuisine Mondays, Seafood Wednesdays and Arabian cuisine on Fridays. Breakfast from 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., lunch from 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. and dinner from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. The special Friday family brunch is served between 11:30 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com
Latino Restaurant
Mondays - Saturdays: Sheraton Doha. Offering South American cuisine and live Latino duo band from Brazil. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information, call 4485-4556.
Tapas Galore
Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. For tapas lovers, this unlimited night is for you to indulge in. Enjoy a selection of tantalizing tapas with three glasses of vino for only QR 220 per person. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Steak Nights
Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. Choose your meat cuts and size and enjoy all the meat you can! QR 195 per person with soft drinks and juices and QR 270 per person with selected house beverages. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Spiedo Chicken After Office Chef’s Table Selection.
Tuesdays: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy an after-office hours chefs table at Latino. This special night includes a selection of food made by a chef, prepared a la minute. QR 99, with a 50 per cent discount off drinks. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4485-4556.
Swiss Night
Tuesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Traditional fondue and raclette made with authentic Swiss cheese blended with a variety of tastes and flavours complement a great dining experience. QR 195 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.Mövenpick-doha.com
Asian Night
Wednesdays: Millennium Hotel. Travel to the Asian world and savor true flavors from India, China, Vietnam and Japan in an exotic setting. From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com
WOW Promotion
Wednesdays: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Women receive 30% discount at Flying Carpet for the lunch or dinner buffet. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4446- 6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com
Asian Night
Wednesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Take a culinary tour of Asia and discover mouthwatering Peking duck, Mongolian barbeque, Japanese sushi and Indian curry for QR 140 per person. From 6:30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.Mövenpick-doha.com
Pasta Night at La Veranda
Wednesdays: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy the authentic Italian restaurant La Veranda, serving a pasta buffet, including live pasta stations, a main course buffet and a dessert buffet. QR 180. For more information, call 4485-4556.
Indian Flavours
Wednesdays: Oryx Rotana. Savour an aromatic feast and indulge your senses with authentic Indian flavours for QR 185 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 260 person, including unlimited selected house beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Curry Night
Wednesdays: Mövenpick Tower & Suites. With a tantalizing buffet featuring ten kinds of meat, seafood and vegetarian curries from green to red, mild to spicy, the selection will enliven your palate with all the flavours that true curry lovers really want. QR 115 per person. Reservations are essential. Take advantage of the MTS Membership card to receive 15% discount for the whole table. Free membership with every reservation (conditions apply). For more information, call 4496-6600 or visit www.Mövenpick-dohatower.com
Fernando’s Churrasco Night
Wednesdays: Sheraton Doha. For the meat lovers, come try Chef Feranando’s Churrasco Night. Enjoy a variety of delicious items, including a golden and crunchy piece of chicken, a well-marinated and tasty short rib, and the best Picanha, brought especially from South America, juicy and tender, rubbed with butter, thyme and black pepper while the chefs grill it in a spiedo grill. QR 220. From 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more information, call 4485-4556.
DAILY Traiteur Daily Specials
Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a healthy lunch with La Cigale daily specials available for outside orders .The lunch box contains a fresh salad, delectable main dish, home-made dessert and one soft drink. Choose your main dish from different selections. Daily specials from QR 60 For more information, call 44288803/20.
Big English Afternoon Tea Daily: Sheraton Doha. Atrium Café is the choice for a Big English afternoon tea starting from QR 35! For more information, call 4485-4556.
Italian Feast
Daily: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy authentic Italian food at La Veranda, including pasta and wood fire pizza. Relax, take in the sea view and listen to the beautiful music of the Italian guitar player. Open from 12:00 till 2:45 p.m. (last order) and 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (last order). For more information, call 4485-4556. 53
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
Il Teatro Italian Fine Dining
Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Literally footsteps away from the water’s edge, with its own outdoor terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the restaurant offers guests a gastronomic journey with sublime authentic Italian cuisine. For special occasions, guests can enjoy their privacy at Il Teatro’s elegant exclusive dining room. Dinner starts from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8888
Lunch & Dinner at Crossroads Kitchen
Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. The West End introduces Crossroads Kitchen, the new Pan Asian restaurant to meet high demands for lunch and dinner from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Crossroads Kitchen Buffet Breakfast
Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Indulge yourself with delightful dishes from Asia, Africa and the Middle East at the Crossroads Kitchen for QR 135. Open from 6:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Classic Afternoon Tea
Daily: Four Seasons Doha. The Seasons menu offers a superb selection to keep hunger at bay, as well as sensational desserts to lead the sweet tooth astray. The latest feature of the menu is their specialty tea, which is sourced from “T,” one of the finest luxury tea companies in the world. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8888.
Gourmet House
Daily: Kempinski Doha. The aroma of freshly baked bread will lure you to the European fine foods boutique and cozy café, where you can shop for Kempinski’s artisanal line of homemade products. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha
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Theme Nights at Flying Carpet
Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Enjoy international cuisine with a twist: Sunday is Mediterranean night, Monday is Barbecue night, Tuesday is Curry Mania, Wednesday is Pan-Latino night, Thursday is Seafood Delight, Friday is Arabian night and Saturday awaits you with Flavours from the East. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4446- 6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com
New Dinner Menu at Aroma
Daily: Kempinski Doha. Poached salmon mousse, Black Angus tenderloin, Valrhona chocolate fondant are only some of the delicious items on Aroma’s dinner menu. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha
Market Tasting Menu
Daily: W Doha. Savour the chef’s favourite, a five-course set menu featuring the most delightful and mouth-watering dishes! From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 280 per person. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Spice Market Tasting Menu
Daily: W Doha. Start off 2012 with the Spice Market tasting menu created by Spice Market Head Chef Darsin Joseph. Five courses with ten mouthwatering flavours and a bottle of your choice for QR 500 for two people (conditions apply). From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Make-Your-Own Sandwich
Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Quick Bites lets you choose your bread, spreads, garnish and more healthy and mouth-watering choices of fillers. No need to get your hands dirty. QR 30 from 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Bread of the Day
Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. The Master Baker at Quick Bites ensures fresh and new breads at all times. Try his special creations: cinnamon bread, bread with raisins, walnuts. From 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Al Hubara Restaurant
Daily: Sheraton Doha. A mix of delights at the International lunch buffet QR 175. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Theme Nights dinner buffet; Monday Thai Night, Tuesday European Night, Friday International Flair, Saturday Al Sham Night, Sunday Italian Pasta. QR 190 per person. Wednesdays and Thursdays Seafood Extravaganza QR 235. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information, call 4485-4556.
Mykonos
Daily: InterContinental Doha. Reveal the “Greek” in you while enjoying the famous Bouzouki duo live and Chef Konstantinos Mediterranean specialties. Open from 12:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Live entertainment from 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., except Saturdays. For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.
New Menu at Three Sixty
Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Check out the new menu and weekly Chef’s Special at the only revolving restaurant in Doha, situated on the 47th floor of Qatar’s new iconic hotel. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information, call 4446- 6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
FRIDAY Steak Night
Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Choose your favourite steak cuts from the display of prime quality meats and fish and have them cooked to perfection for QR 230 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.movenpick-doha.com
High Tea at Kufic Lounge
Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Take a break and enjoy finger sandwiches, home-made mini pastries with your choice of tea or coffee, in Doha’s trendiest lounge for QR 75 per person. From 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call: 444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com
WEEKEND THURSDAY Seafood Delight
Thursdays: Oryx Rotana. Experience the bounty of the sea at Choices. From lobster, prawns and shrimps to freshly shucked oysters on the half-shell, enjoy unlimited seafood offerings for just QR 210 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 285, including unlimited selected house beverages. Shisha is available on the pool terrace. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Seafood Night
Thursdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. A sumptuous buffet with a spectacular spread of tasty seafood bites bringing together Asian and Mediterranean combinations for a colourful collection of delicious food. QR 195 per person, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.movenpick-doha.com
Barbecue at the Admirals Terrace
Thursdays and Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. By the turquoise waters of the Gulf sea, enjoy a mixed grill selection from the live barbecue station. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 195 per person. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Seafood Buffet
Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Enjoy grilled fish and seafood by the beachfront freshly prepared by expert chefs, including live cooking stations. From 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.
Moules Frites
Fridays and Saturdays: W Doha. Enjoy freshly prepared moules frites directly from the kitchen by chef Remy. Available for lunch and dinner. QR 99. For more information, call 4453-5303 or email contact@lamaisonducaviar.net
Family Lunch Specials
Fridays and Saturdays: Sheraton Doha. At Al Hubara Restaurant, Friday lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. inclusive of a soft drink and tea or coffee. QR 200. Saturday lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. inclusive of a soft drink and tea or coffee. QR 200. Saturday dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. inclusive of a soft drink and tea or coffee. QR 210 per person. For more information, call 4485-4556.
SATURDAY Burger Night
Saturdays: W Doha. Market is grilling up a good time. The tastiest burgers made just the way you like them. Choose your burger, side dish and a dessert for QR 110. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Retail Night
Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Enjoy the new Tapas menu and your favourite vino at retail price at the Cellar. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Oriental Family Buffet
Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Treat yourself to an informal brunch at Choices, where you can savour the new Oriental Family buffet! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 175 per person (price includes food only). For more information, call 4402-3333.
Sushi Fiesta
Saturdays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Immerse yourself in an electrical range of original and sensational sushi platters from the sushi bar at Chopsticks, the awardwinning best restaurant. Eat as much you can for QR 119 per person, including a glass of sparkling date juice. Saturdays from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email: sdesilva@wyndham.com
Sushi Night
Saturdays: W Doha. Add some flavour to the start of the week with Spice Market’s comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and his expert team. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 220 per person. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Admiral’s Saturday Roast
Saturdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy the perfect hand-carved Saturday roast, a selection of roast meats, with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings cooked to perfection! From 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 120 per person. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Lebanese Breakfast
Saturdays: Millennium Hotel. Enjoy authentic Lebanese flavours, decoration and tunes and live stations serving healthy food to kick off the day. From 7:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information, call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com
International Buffet
Saturdays and Sundays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Serving a lavish buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with an extensive a la carte menu. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.movenpick-doha.com. 55
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
BRUNCH Australian Flavors with Guest Chef
Crossroads Family Brunch
Fridays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Doha’s newest family brunch @ introductory rates! Crossroads Kitchen offers a fantastic International brunch including a children’s buffet and entertainment zone with face painting, movies and games. QR 120 for 7-12 year olds, QR 190 for adults including soft beverages, QR250 with selected house beverages. Introductory rates are available until the 24th February. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Mike Taff
Middle Eastern Brunch at Al Nafoura Garden
Fridays: Oryx Rotana. Savour the finest specialties served with characteristic flair results in the most exceptional à la carte brunch menu. Tempting hot and cold mézze platters with an array of signature favourites will ensure an unforgettable brunch spread along with Shisha won a beautiful terrace. From 9:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Brunch @ Cucina, The Italian Kitchen!
Fridays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. For Cucina fanatics there’s now a fresh and flavoursome brunch using only the finest ingredients from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Adults QR 190 including soft beverages, QR2 50 including selected house beverages. Introductory prices available until the 24th February. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Australian food Festival
Tse Yang Brunch
If you are looking for a great day out with friends, then do not miss the Australian food festival at Oryx Rotana! Along with interacting with celebrity chef Mike, live on stage. A Brunch on February 10th, a Steak Night on February 14th at Choices, and Chef’s Table on February 15th at the Cellar. So succumb to your senses and experience the Australian Food Festival!
Fridays: Tse Yang, The Pearl-Qatar. Savour brunch with live jazz band and kids’ entertainment. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 370 per adult, kids aged six to twelve QR 185, kids under six are free. For more information, call 4495-3876 ext 2071.
The Cellar’s Brunch
Fridays: Oryx Rotana. Drop by The Cellar for a traditional Stammtisch with unlimited special beverages. Experience Swiss, German, Italian, French and Austrian dishes for your ultimate European journey. QR 220 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-3333.
For reservations or more information please visit: www.rotanatimes.com or call +974 4402 3333 Like us on
Cosmo Brunch
and follow us on
P.O. Box 29922, Doha, Qatar, T: +974 4402 3333, F: +974 4402 3300, oryx.hotel@rotana.com
rotana.com
Fridays: Millennium Hotel. International and oriental cuisines are served in a casual ambiance, with special kids corner and entertainment. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
Asian Brunch
Fridays: Holiday Villa Doha. All you can eat Dim Sum and sushi. Enjoy this splendid spread of Chinese and Japanese delicacies, including steamed or fried dumplings, spring rolls, steamed buns and sushi served with free flowing Chinese tea. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 130 per adult and QR 65 per child. For more information, 4408-4230.
Hyde Park Brunch
Brunch at the Arabica Terrace Tent
Fridays: Four Seasons Doha. Book your favourite table in the inviting atmosphere of the Arabica tent and enjoy a feast of delectable dishes prepared to perfection. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8888.
Jazzy Friday Brunch
Fridays: Ramada Plaza. Start the weekend right and enjoy a very special Friday brunch. Let the team of chefs tempt you with fresh seafood, sushi, Chinese, Indian and European specialties. For more information, call 4428-1555.
Fridays: Oryx Rotana. The brunch offers wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. QR 210 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 285 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Breakfast Feast on Fridays
Street Food Brunch
Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and there is no better way to enjoy it than at Admiral’s Club. QR 150 per person, including coffee, tea and fresh juices. From 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Lagoon Friday Family Brunch
Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Unwind with friends and family at The Lagoon Restaurant and indulge in a luxurious buffet, live musical performances and a lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere. Complimentary Ritz-Kids Corner available for children aged four years to twelve years old. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 220 per person, QR 295 with bubbly and QR 110 for children from six to twelve years old. For more information, call 4484-8000.
Market Brunch
W Doha. Watch fresh, local products and ingredients come together splendidly in the Mediterranean inspired show kitchen. The brunch serves international and Mediterranean cuisine. QR 320 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 320 per person. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Fridays: W Doha. Asian street food meets slick city chic at the new weekly Spice Market Brunch, with a backdrop of live upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 320 per person including drinks; QR 280 per person without adult beverages. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.
Family Friday Brunch
Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Experience the all-new brunch, showcasing an array of innovative culinary delights. In collaboration with Jarir Book store, the little ones have their own play kingdom with live entertainment, a bouncy castle, PlayStation, games and even a kiddy-sized buffet. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.movenpick-doha.com
Seafood Brunch at Fish Market
Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Indulge in the luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobster, oyster, tiger prawns, and sea bass. Choose from the wide range of beverage options to complement your meal whilst enjoying the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.
Family Brunch
Fridays and Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Tuck into a magnificent buffet in Al Liwan, with cooking stations and a carvery. There’s live entertainment and lots to amuse the little ones. QR 250 per person, half price for kids under twelve and free for children under six. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com
Weekend Family Brunch
Fridays and Saturdays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. Enjoy the sumptuous array of international cuisine including fresh seafood, carved meats and Arabic delights. A special children’s area offers their favourite food, along with playstation, movies and games. Brunch is from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Complimentary access to the pool for children and moms from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 199 per person, inclusive of all beverages. Children from six to 12 years of age are half-price and those below six are free. For more information, call 4496-6600.
Far Eastern Buffet
Fridays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Chopsticks restaurant is serving a delightful lunch buffet of Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. QR 129 for adults and QR 65 for children ages six to twelve. For more information, call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com
Thai Brunch at Isaan
Fridays: Grand Hyatt Doha. The restaurant’s open show kitchens are set in a captivating scene with authentic steam, along with grill and wok preparations served at an “all-you-can-eat” lunch. Indulge in authentic Thai delights and complement your dining experience with a sparkling beverage bringing an elegant French touch to your palate. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person, including soft drinks, QR 395 per person, including selected house beverages, QR 680 per person, including bubbly. For more information, call 4448-1250.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
Thyme for Lunch
Sundays – Thursdays: Four Seasons Doha. At Il Teatro, diners can try the two or threecourse meal. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8888.
Good Mood Business Lunch
The Grill Brunch
Fridays: Grand Hyatt Doha. Perfect for families to enjoy a lavish buffet featuring the freshest ingredients prepared at live cooking stations. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person, including soft drinks and QR 395, including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information, call 4448-1240.
Al Dana Brunch
Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Enjoy this special bubbly brunch throughout February. QR 300 per person with free lowing sparkling vino or QR 250 with soft drinks. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com
Friday Family Brunch
Fridays: Sheraton Doha. Al Shaheen roof top restaurant, offers international cuisine with unlimited soft drinks at QR 220 or choose the bubbly package at QR 250. You will enjoy live entertainment for your pleasure and kids enchantment as well. For more information, call 4485-4556.
BUSINESS LUNCH Express Business Lunch Saturdays – Thursdays: Grand Hyatt Doha. Combining efficiency, rapidity and quality is now possible in Rocca. A three course menu will be at your disposal for just QR 85 including mineral water from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1272 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com
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Chopsticks Business Lunch
Tuesdays – Sundays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Offers the ideal solution for busy professionals - an exceptional Asian three-course daily changing set menu served in 59 minutes for QR 59 otherwise, you get it for free! 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4434- 3203 or email: sdesilva@wyndham.com
Business Lunch Formula
Daily: La Cigale. Le Central welcomes you for a Business Set Menu. Savour three choices of light and healthy appetizers, expertly designed main dishes and La Cigale irresistible desserts for QR 150. For more information, call 4428-8772.
Sundays - Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. Good mood food at Mykonos reveals a different way to “express” your business lunch and the way you feel. Did you know that many natural chemicals in the food can change the way we feel? Show them your mood and they will make your order, QR 90 for three courses. From 12:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-4096 or 4484-4444.
Express Lunch at Market
Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha. Choose your starter, main course and dessert and savour chef Vongerichten’s signature dishes in only 30 minutes! The finest dining express lunch ever! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89 per person for a three-course menu. For more information, call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.
Business Lunch at Al Burj Al Hamam Business Hubara Daily: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy the new Lunch business lunch at Al Hubara. This delicious Sundays – Thursdays: Burj Al Hamam, The Pearl-Qatar. Enjoy a business lunch for only QR 95 per person. For more information, call 4495-3876.
lunch includes a salad bar and dessert buffet for only QR 130 or main course and dessert buffet for only QR 145. For more information, call 4485-4556.
Lunch Escape Set
South East Asian Express
Sundays – Thursdays: Holiday Villa Doha. Choose from more than 20 delicious Chinese and Japanese items. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. From QR 50 per person. For more information, call 4408-4230.
Business Lunch
Sundays - Thursdays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Try the Business Lunch in Cucina, the Italian Kitchen. Enjoy a scrumptious three-course meal for QR 85, available from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. For reservations, call 44196100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha. Choose your favorite starter, main course and dessert from the express lunch menu to be served in 30 minutes leaving you enough time to enjoy the ambiance and relax. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89 per person for a three-course menu. For more information, call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.
Express Lunch at Belgian Café
Daily: InterContinental Doha. Choose a twocourse set menu for QR 85 per person, or three course set menu for QR 95 per person. Add three tasting brews to your menu for QR 15. From 12:30 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
Lunch Box
Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Quick Bites Lunch Box consists of a healthy salad, a choice of sandwich, dessert, chips and a soft drink for QR 60. From 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com
Rushed for Time Business Lunch
Daily: Kempinski Doha. Spice up your meeting or simply season your office escape with a hearty Business Lunch at Aroma. Recharge with a three-course lunch including tea or coffee for QR 90. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha
Wok Mee Business Lunch
Daily: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. For an Asian twist at lunch time, try the new business lunch menu. The threecourse menu spoils you with choice and features favourites such as the traditional Thai Fish Cakes, Nasi Goreng, Green Mango Salad and Toffee Bananas with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. QR 85 per person. Get a 15 per cent discount with the MTS membership card. Free membership with every reservation. For more information, call 4496-6600.
The Cellar Business Lunch
Daily: Oryx Rotana. Grand a quick bite and enjoy The Cellar’s three-course set menu, including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 85 per person, guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information, call 4402-3333.
Light Lunch Buffet at Flying Carpet
Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. The all-day dining restaurant combines modern design with live cooking stations and international cuisine. Light lunch QR 140 net per person (Children between ages six and 12 at QR 70 and below six for free). On Wednesdays, women get a 30 per cent discount on lunch and dinner buffet. For more information, call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com
Express Business Lunch
Daily: Sheraton Doha. Salad bar & dessert buffet, QR 130 or main course & dessert buffet, QR 145 at Al Hubara. For more information, call 4485-4556.
VALENTINE’S EVENTS Al Dana Valentine’s Day Dinner
Tue 14th: Sharq Village & Spa. 5-course menu, with surprise gifts for each couple. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 890 per couple with one welcome drink. For more information, call 4425-6666.
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
Valentine’s Dinner by the Pool Tue 14th: Sharq Village & Spa. Located
amongst the lavish surrounding of the outdoor pool and gardens, enjoy a romantic buffet dinner under the stars. QR 220 per person excluding beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com
Sweetheart Specials
Tue 14th: Holiday Villa. Spend an enchanting evening with charming view of Doha at Prima Lounge. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 350 per person. For more information, call 4408-4230.
Valentine’s Afternoon Tea Tue 14th: Sharq Village & Spa. Luscious afternoon tea at Al Jalsa, which combines this truly British pastime with the Italian love of stopping mid-afternoon for a homemade pastry or two. QR 135 per person. From 2:30 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com
Al Liwan Valentine’s Day Dinner Tue 14th: Sharq Village & Spa. Romantic dinner with romantic set-up. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 255 per person excluding drinks. For more information, call 4425-6666.
La Mer Valentine’s Day Dinner
Tue 14th: Sharq Village & Spa. Enjoy the new menu. QR 3,500 for two with Shisha. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com
The Cellar of Love
Tue 14th: Oryx Rotana. With love in the air, Oryx Rotana is the perfect host for Valentine’s Brasserie on your evening of timeless romance. Have a romantic Valentine and experience a flair of the Beach Doha at The Cellar. QR 680 per couple for Tue 14th: Four Seasons Doha. Enjoy the an exceptional four course dinner including sumptuous buffet with your loved one on beverages. For more information, this special day. Dinner buffet from 7:00 p.m. call 4402-3333. till 11:00 p.m. QR 280 for full buffet with in-house lounge music. For more information, call 4494-8888. Valentine’s @ Al Hubara
San Valentino Dinner
Tue 14th: Four Seasons Doha. Treat your special someone to a romantic Valentine’s dinner at Il Teatro from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. with in-house romantic Italian music QR 520 four course menu, including one cocktail/mocktail on arrival, coffee and love chocolate petite fours. QR 1,250 sparkling four course menu, also including one bottle of sparkling vino. QR 2,850 bubbly four course menu, also including one bottle of bubbly. For more information, call 4494-8888.
Valentine’s Pool & Grill
Tue 14th: Four Seasons Doha. Enjoy an enchanting evening under the stars with in-house music, next to an individual bonfire on the private beach. This is what memories are made of! Dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. QR 3,000 (for two, including one glass of bubbly upon arrival).
Tue 14th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Indulge in an unforgettable evening with each of the 5 courses accentuating the amore celebration, accompanied with picturesque views of the Arabian Gulf as the perfect backdrop. Valentine’s Afternoon Tea 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 495 per person Tue 14th: Four Seasons Doha. Treat yourself including a glass of bubbly. For more and your loved one with our distinctive information, call 4484-8000. Valentine’s Afternoon Tea at Seasons Tea Lounge. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. QR 135. For more information, Valentine’s Day call 4494-8888. Tue 14th: Millennium Hotel. Treat your loved one to a celebratory buffet at Cosmo and enjoy a romantic candle light dinner and receive a red rose as a special gift. From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4424-7361 or email fb@ mill-doha.com 60
Al Wanis Valentine’s Dinner
Tue 14th: Sheraton Doha. Treat yourself with your loved one to the delights of a special Valentine’s buffet. QR 220 per person. For more information, call 4485-4444.
Le Central
Tue 14th: La Cigale. Enjoy an exquisite and truly magical Valentine’s evening with romantic love songs performed live by Fusion Duo from Doha Jazz, red roses and gifts. The French chef has brought the Mediterranean flavours altogether in a 4 course set menu to enjoy with your special one. Price per couple QR 750, including a glass of sparkling vino per person. For more information, call 4428-8772.
Le Cigalon
Tue 14th: La Cigale. Treat your family and beloved ones to a gastronomic International buffet with wide selection of Lebanese specialties, while the romantic love songs provide a tranquil dining ambience. Buffet price is QR 200 per person. For more information, call 4428-8698.
Di Capri
Tue 14th: La Cigale. Enjoy a fine Italian candle-lit Valentine in a warm and enchanting atmosphere amid live tunes with special 4 course set menu. Price per couple QR 700, including a glass of sparkling vino per person. For more information, call 4428-8840.
FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
The Cafe Restaurant
Tue 14th: InterContinental Doha. Treat your loved ones to a Valentine’s Bubbly Dinner Buffet at QR 295.00 per person, inclusive of a glass of bubbly and special gift for the ladies. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Mykonos
Tue 14th: InterContinental Doha. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in a true romantic Mediterranean style. Enjoy a special set menu at QR 250.00 per person, inclusive of a glass of bubbly and live entertainment by the famous Bouzouki duo. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Fish Market
Tue 14th: InterContinental Doha. Love matters, so celebrate and express your love your way. Enjoy a 4-course Valentine’s set menu at QR 700.00 per person whilst enjoying James Blunt concert from the comfort of the Fish Market terrace. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Paloma
Tue 14th: InterContinental Doha. Spice up your evening with our “Valentine’s Vampire Party”. Try our special 3-course set menu at QR 250.00 per person. The Big Mouth Band will kick off the night playing the best live music in town and DJ Shadi will continue playing commercial house, R ‘n B and Hip Hop. No entrance fee. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Valentine’s @ La Veranda The Grill Valentine’s Tue 14th: Sheraton Doha. Authentic Italian Brunch restaurant with the best sea view in the city. Enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars with a four course set menu at QR 270 including water and tea or coffee. For more information, call 4485-4444.
Valentine’s @ Al Shaheen
Tue 14th: Sheraton Doha. A romantic dinner at the roof top restaurant with a four course set menu at QR 285 per person including water and tea or coffee. For more information, call 4485-4444.
Fri 10th and 17th: Grand Hyatt Doha. My family, my Valentine brunch. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1240.
Couples Menu
Lava
Tue 14th: InterContinental Doha. For those looking for love this Valentine’s, come along and join us as we search for the best dressed “Hollywood Famous Couples”. Winning couple will receive a special prize. No entrance fee. For more information, call 4484-4444.
Tue 14th: Grand Hyatt Doha. At The Grill, Rocca, Isaan and Dunes from 7:00 till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1240.
Special Family High Tea
Fri 10th - Fri 17th: Grand Hyatt Doha. At Al Maha from 3:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1240.
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THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
SPORTS
Yama Yoga Promotion
Wed 1st – Wed 29th: Yama Yoga Studios. Take a friend to class with you for free the month of February. Must be a new student to Yama Yoga for offer to apply. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com
Qatar National Road Racing Championship – Cars, Round 3 Fri 17th – Sat 18th: Losail International
Circuit. Free entry. Starts 9:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit www. circuitlosail.com or call 4472-9151.
11 Super Series Thurs 9th – Sat 11th: Losail International Circuit. This is a novel single-make racing series, designed specifically for Indian audiences and recognized as best in-class. Winning prize money USD 2 million! For more information, visit www.i1superseries.com/index.html.
Sail the Gulf
Sun 11th – Wed 15th: Qatar Sailing Federation. Over 300 sailors from all over the world in nine different classes will participate in this racing event which has running in Doha for over twenty years. For more information, visit qatarsailing@yahoo.com
‘Push It To The Limit’
Sat 18th: Six Sences Spa, Sharq Village & Spa. Special outdoor fitness activity session from 3.30 p.m. till to 5:00 p.m.For more information, call 4425-6999 or email fitnessm-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com
OUT om K C E H .c C ppening
atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
2 1 0 2 f l u G e h T l i a S By Jorge Granda
Human beings are drawn to water. We bathe in it, contemplate it, slake our thirst with it; so it's only natural that we would try to harness it through wind and sail. The Qatar International Regatta “Sail the Gulf” is an annual event that has grown from one class to nine category classes in the past decade. The 20th edition of the event will take place from the 11th through the 15th of February. QH gives you all the details you need to know to enjoy this sailing competition.
S
ailing is one of the oldest sports on the planet and this year's event will showcase its global reach. Over 300 sailors and officials from Qatar, Algeria, Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Russia, Norway, India, United Arab Emirates, among other countries, will land in Doha this February to participate in one of the biggest sailing championships of the year. The event is organized by the Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation in cooperation with the Doha Sailing Club. Sail the Gulf will offer sailors from around the globe a perfect combination of beautiful weather, great wind conditions and a breath-taking cityscape. Adding to the delightful scenery is the gentle Arabian breezes and mild waves of Doha bay. Over the years the event has become increasingly popular; not only in the region, 64
but also all over the world as Doha’s sea represents the idyllic playground for all the participants and public alike. The races will take place in different courses set up by the ISF on Doha Bay by the Corniche (30 minutes sailing time from the launching area). Spectators will have the chance to watch the visual spectacle shaped by the number of boats that will be present. The Qatar International Regatta will provide spectator boats during the races.
COMPETING CLASSES OF BOATS
Over the course of the competition, several different types of races will be held off the coast of Doha. Races are estimated to take between 45 and 90 minutes. Participants of each class have to compete in 12 races (three each day). • Optimist • Laser 4.7 • Laser Radial-Olympic • Laser Standard-Olympic • 420 • 470-Olympic •Hobbie-16 •Windsurfing/Mistral •Beneteau First Class 7.5
SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
PROGRAM Feb. 11
BOX 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Official Arrival Day (Registration & Measurement) 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Optimist Team Racing
Feb. 12
. Feb. 13
9: 00 p.m. Team Leaders Meeting 11:00 a.m. Race 1, 2 & 3 11:00 a.m. Race 4, 5 & 6
Feb. 14
11:00 a.m. Race 7, 8 & 9
Feb. 15
11:00 a.m. Race 10, 11 & 12 Evening Closing Ceremony & Dinner
Event:
The Qatar International Regatta “Sail the Gulf”
When:
From the 11th till the 15th of February 2012
Where:
Doha Sailing Club, Ras Abu Aboud, Doha – Qatar
Racing Area: Doha Bay approximately 30 minutes sailing time from the launching area Courses to be Sailed: The courses will be trapezoid in design adding to the difficulty for the participants, and, of course, the fun and excitement for the spectators.
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
The Masters Return This month the Doha Golf Club will stage the 15th edition of one of the most celebrated golf tournament in the region; the CommercialBank Qatar Masters, presented by Dolphin Energy. The tournament is part of the European PGA Tour schedule and it will start on Wednesday, February 1st and it will run until Sunday, February 5th, 2012. Groups to tee off from 6:45 a.m. onwards
The CommercialBank Qatar Masters, presented by Dolphin Energy is one of the longest par 72 courses on the PGA European Tour schedule.
*Timings are subject to change
Each year, the tournament attracts a strong field of the world’s top golfers where they gather to play on the Doha Golf Clubs’ challenging, desert style, 7,421 yard championship course.
The star-studded line-up in the 2.5 million US dollar tournament includes the following top ranked golfers.
This year the players will compete for a share of the 2.5 million US dollars in prize money, including, for the winner a check for over 416,000 US dollars.
Dates
Wednesday Feb 1 Thursday Feb 2 Friday Feb 3 Saturday Feb 4 Sunday Feb 5
Pro Am First Round Second Round Third Round Final Round
Schedule of Play
Tournament Days 1 & 2 Session 1 First Group to tee off at 6:30 a.m. Session 2 Second Group to tee off at 10:50 a.m. Tournament Days 3 & 4 66
Top Golfers Participating Entertainment available
Apart from watching the greatest players of the game in action you can chill out and enjoy a wide variety of entertainment that will be available inside the Doha Golf Club. • Corporate and private hospitality • Public village with exhibitions and merchandise • Official Commercialbank Qatar Masters merchandise store • Golf clinics, demonstrations and simulators • Corporate crèche • Children’s entertainment and games • Food and Beverage outlets with big screen coverage • Live bands including Billy Ocean, Arrested Development and more • The following exhibitors offering fun and unique promotions:
SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
• Dolphin Energy • Modern Home • Qatar Duty Free • BMW • Four Seasons Hotel • Hamilton Grand Old Course • Qatargas
Ticket Information
Entry fee is QR 50 per day, which allows you access to the field of play and the public village where you will find food and beverage outlets and live entertainment. Tickets can be purchased from the Doha Golf Club reception as of the 15th of January, 2012 and at the entrance to the tournament on the day of play.
The Championship Course
The championship course is a tough course from the front nine to the back tees, featuring eight artificial lakes that, apart from enhancing the stunning nature of the course, also work as obstacles. The course also features numerous palm trees and over 10,000 varieties of other trees located throughout the course. The designers also added over 5,000 shrubs and 65 cacti which add to the difficulty of the course.
Golf Etiquette
According to www.qatar-masters.com, there are certain rules spectators are expected to follow while watching a professional golf tournament. As golf is a game of concentration and strategy spectators must be mindful not to disturb the players. Therefore it is good golf etiquette to remain still and quiet while a player prepares to hit his shot. In fact there are people whose sole job is to hold
PLAYER NAME
COUNTRY
ROUND
Lee Westwood estwood
England
2
Martin Kaymer
Germany
4
Jason Day
Australia
10
KJ Choi
South Korean
14
Robert Karlsson
Sweden
27
Miguel Angel Jimenez
Spain
45
Retrief Goosen
South Africa
50
up signs telling spectators to be silent and not to make sudden movements. Additional etiquette requires that spectators never cross fairways except at designated crossover areas marked by signage. For the safety of all spectators it is important that everyone follow the directions of the tournament marshals.
Suggested Golf Attire
Appropriate casual golf wear with comfortable walking shoes (if you wish to wear golf shoes, make sure they have soft spikes only). Spectators should have the following items on hand: wind breaker, hat or visor, sunscreen, sunglasses and umbrella.
Cameras
Cameras are not allowed, except on practice days.
Mobile Phones
As mobile phones can disrupt competitors during play, Doha Golf Club insists on having mobile devices switched off while on the course or in the grandstands.
Grandstand Facilities
Approximately 600 seats are located around the course.
Banking service
There is an ATM machine on-site, inside the clubhouse. Also, the reception inside the clubhouse has a foreign exchange service.
Access to the course
Spectators can move freely around the lf course but please stay outside the ropes. Controlled crossing points which are clearly marked should be used when crossing fairways. 67
SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
Experience the power of Tennis By Jorge Granda
The Qatar Ladies Open is back for the 2012 edition of the tennis tournament. The biggest names on the WTA Tour will make a stop at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex to battle it out for the $ 2, 168, 400 in prize money and the coveted title. QH gives you an inside look into the biggest female tennis championship of the year. The Qatar Ladies Open 2012 marks the 10th anniversary of the international event and is certainly the biggest female tournament taking place in the country this year. When first staged in 2011, it was a fresh affair designed to introduce female tennis to the residents of Doha. Since then, the WTA Premier event has captured everyone’s attention and currently stands as a major annual happening in the region. The Qatar Ladies Open attracts thousands of tennis aficionados to the courts of the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex every year, while millions watch it in the comfort of their homes all over the world. The 2012 edition brings some of the 68
best 28 singles players and 16 doubles teams Squash Complex. Tickets are also on sale at www.qatartennis.org. to Doha. Caroline Wozniacki (ranked first in the world), Petra Kvitova (ranked second), Victoria Azarenka (third in the world) and Samantha Stosur (seeded sixth) are among the big names landing in Doha this month to be part of the 64-player singles draw.
TICKETING INFORMATION The Qatar Ladies Open 2012 is set to take place from February 13 to 19 at the courts of the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. Tickets are on sale at Villaggio, City Center, Landmark and Lagoona Malls, and at the Khalifa International Tennis &
Karim Alami, tournament director, believes the response of the public will be as positive as it was for the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2012 last January. “Ticket sales for the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2012 were overwhelming and the fans really supported the players and the event. We expect the response to be just as spectacular when the WTA players come to town. As a WTA Premier event and a 64-player draw, the Qatar Ladies Open 2012 is going to have some incredible athletes.
SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
ain town– fans will not be disappointed by the calibre of players and the amazing matches we are sure to have,” Karim said. • Centre court tickets grant access to the centre court, the outside match courts and the complex. Ground passes provide access to the outside match courts and the complex only. • Lower sections and Middle B have a reserved number for seating. • Middle A and C and Upper A, B and C stands do not have numbered seating and seating allocation is on a first-comefirst-serve basis. • Children under the age of five are not permitted into the stands on match courts.
MATCH SCHEDULE Monday
Feb 13
3:30 p.m. R64
Tuesday
Feb 14
3:30 p.m. R64
Wednesday Feb 15
3:30 p.m. R32
Thursday Feb 16
3:30 p.m. R16
Friday
3:30 p.m. Quarter
Feb 17
Finals Saturday Feb 18
4:00 p.m. Semi Finals
Sunday
Feb 19
PLAYERS The top players on the WTA Tour will land in Doha to participate in the electrifying Qatar Ladies Open 2012. Here are some of the stars that will take the tennis courts by storm.
PLAYER'S NAME
NATIONALITY
WORLD RANKING
Caroline Wozniacki Petra Kvitova Victoria Azarenka Samantha Stosur Vera Zvonareva Agnieszka Radwanska Marion Bartoli Andrea Petkovic Francesca Schiavone Jelena Jankovic Sabine Lisicki Anastasia Avlyuchenkova, Shuai Peng Dominika Cibulkova Svetlana Kuznetsova Flavia Pennetta Julia Goerges Ana Ivanovic Daniela Hantuchova Lucie Safarova Yanina Wickmayer
Denmark Czech Republic Belarus Australia Russia Poland France Germany Italy Serbia Germany Russia China Slovakia Russia Italy Germany Serbia Slovakia Czech Republic Belgium
1 2 3 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 27
4:00 p.m. Finals *As of January 18th
ABOUT QATAR TENNIS FEDERATION The Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) is the governing body of tennis in the country. QTF aims to provide young Qatari tennis players with the best resources and opportunities to reach the best level of tennis and to assure they take advantage of their potential and compete in international tournaments locally and all over the world. (Source: Qatar Tennis Federation)
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
SeekING VICTOry By Jorge Granda
If you get to see a game with Umm Salal you're in for an exceptional night of football. Sitting atop the pyramid of the league for several consecutive seasons since being promoted to QSL in 2006, the club seems determined to never look back, remaining one of the top football clubs in the nation. QH explores the core essence of Umm Salal. Previously known as Al-Tadamun Club, Umm Salal reached QSL in the 2006/2007 season. The team qualified in 2008 for the AFC Champions League 2009 after defeating Al Gharafa on penalties during the Emir Cup final. They became the first Qatari club to ever finish in the semi-finals of the prestigious championship. Umm Salal also added the Sheikh Jassem Cup to their trophy cabinet in 2009. Playing at the heart of Umm Salal the team features football star Magno Alves de Araujo among their roster and Gerard Gili as their coach.
MAGNO ALVES DE ARAUJO
Brazilian player Alves is by some distance the best player of Umm Salal. His ability to mesmerize in the football field with a mix of scoring skills, powerful physique and pace seems to be unmatched. Sometimes it appears that the ball is glued to his feet. The versatile footballer made 265 appearances and scored 111 goals between 1998 and 2003 for Fluminense as a striker, winning the Rio State Championship in 2002. His biggest moment came in a football game against Santa Cruz when he became known as Magnata after scoring five times during the match. After a small stop at the Korean Professional Football League (K-League), Alves featured at the Oita Trinita of the Japan Professional Football League (J. League). In 2006 he joined J. League champion, Gamba Osaka. He later on joined Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia and was signed by club Ceara in Brazil before joining Umm Salal Club in Qatar. Araujo is very pleased to be playing for Umm Salal and promises to do his best to take the team to the top of the league. “I would like to thank the president of Umm Salal club for inviting me to play for the team again.
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CURRENT SQUAD No.
POSITION
1
GK
Emad Aziz Al-Shammari
PLAYER
2
DF
Mohamed Husain
3
DF
Ismail Ibrahim
4
DF
Younes Yaqoub Darwish
5
MF
Saoud Ghanem
7
FW
Tamer Jamal Osman
9
FW
Cabore
10
FW
Firas Al Khatib
11
MF
Hani Kamal
12
MF
Mohammed Hashim Ahmed
13
DF
Hamad Edghef Turki
14
FW
Mohamed El Sayed
15
MF
Mustafa Aden Mahmoud
17
MF
Abdulaziz Al Yahri
19
DF
Mujeeb Taha
20
MF
Jawad Ahnash
21
MF
Ahmed Abdulsalam
22
GK
Saleh Allahyar
23
FW
Mourad Meghni
24
DF
Musa Haroon
25
GK
Mohammed Enyas
26
DF
Dahi Al Naemi
28
MF
Abou Bakr Taha
29
MF
Khalid Alawi Said
33
DF
Khalid Jaberti
35
DF
Nadim Mohammed
55
DF
Talal El Karkouri
77
MF
Tariq Rashid Eid
SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
Qatar Stars League Season 2011 / 2012 Second Leg
Week 12th
TEAMS
DAY / DATE
Thursday 12 / 1 / 2012 Friday 13 / 1 / 2012 Saturday 14 / 1 / 2012
Kharaitiyat Arabi Khor Rayyan
Sadd Ahli Jeish Umm Salal
Qatar Lakhwiya
Gharafa Wakrah
Week 13
TIME
VENUE
Jasem Bin Hamad Hamad Al Kabir Al Khor Ahmad Bin Ali
4 : 15 6 : 15 4 : 15 6 : 15 4 : 15 6 : 15
Suhim Bin Hamad Thani Bin Jasem
th TEAMS
DAY / DATE
Thursday 19 / 1 / 2012 Friday 20 / 1 / 2012 Saturday 21 / 1 / 2012
I am really feeling happy to be back in Qatar, I have a lot of friends here, and I missed them a lot when I was in Brazil. Coach Girard Gili is a great coach, and he knows how to lead the team of Umm Salal to victories, I am sure that I will get huge support from Umm Salal management in order to achieve victories as we did together before,” Alves said .
GERARD GILI
It is not the first time the French football manager coaches Umm Salal. He also managed the team back in 2010. Among his many achievements in his career worth highlighting is his coaching period with Under 23 with whom he qualified for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.
Week 14
The coach is very thankful to be back in Qatar and coach Umm Salal again after a year break. “I am happy to be back in Qatar, and also so happy to work for the same team that I left almost one year ago. I have a lot of friends here, and I know that I will get the support of Umm Salal management in order to achieve victories as we did together before,” Gili said.
Saturday 4 14/ 2/ 1/ /2012 2012
The league is much more competitive than the last years, nobody can guess who will be the champion of the league this year. I will do my best in order to take the team to be among the best four teams in the league in order to participate in the AFA Champions League.”
Ahli Qatar
Wakrah Sadd
Arabi Umm Salal
Khor Rayyan
TIME
VENUE
4 : 15 6 : 15 4 : 15 6 : 15 4 : 15 6 : 15
Thani Bin Jasem Ahmad Bin Ali Thani Bin Jasem Jasem Bin Hamad Saoud Bin Abdelrahman Jasem Bin Hamad
th
Qatar Stars League TEAMS
DAY / DATE
Jeish Thursday 26 / 1 / 2012 Kharaitiyat
Lakhwiya Qatar
Saturday 28 / 1 / 2012
Khor Wakrah
TIME
4 : 30 6 : 30 4 : 30 6 : 30 4 : 30 6 : 30
VENUE
Ahmad Bin Ali Jasem Bin Hamad
Gharafa Arabi Bin Jasem Season Second Leg Thani Friday 27 / 1 2011 / 2012 / 2012 Hamad Al Kabir Sadd Ahli Rayyan Umm Salal
Week 15 12
Ahmad Bin Ali Suhim Bin Hamad
th th TEAMS
DAY / DATE
2 //21//2012 Thursday 12 2012 Friday 13 3 / /21//2012 2012
“There is a lot of work that has to be done in order to bring back our team to better position than we are now.
Lakhwiya Jeish Gharafa Kharaitiyat
Arabi Kharaitiyat Kharaitiyat Arabi Khor Rayyan Lakhwiya Qatar Lakhwiya Qatar
13 Week 16
Umm Sadd Salal Jeish Ahli Sadd Jeish Ahli Umm Salal Gharafa Wakrah
TIME
4 : 30 15 6 : 30 15 4 : 30 15 6 : 30 15 4 : 30 15 6 : 30 15
VENUE VENUE
Jasem Bin Hamad Hamad Al Kabir Jasem Hamad HamadBin Al Kabir Al Khor Ahmad Bin Ali Suhim BinJasem Hamad Thani Bin Suhim BinJasem Hamad Thani Bin
th TEAMS
DAY / DATE
Thursday 19 2012 9 //21//2012 Friday 20 10 / 12/ 2012 Saturday 11 21 /21 / 2012
Week 14 17
Lakhwiya Wakrah Jeish Gharafa Umm Salal Kharaitiyat Arabi Wakrah Kharaitiyat Sadd Qatar
Khor Ahli Qatar Rayyan Khor Jeish Rayyan Sadd Arabi Gharafa Umm Salal Ahli
TIME
VENUE
15 4 : 30 15 6 : 30 4 : 30 15 15 6 : 30 15 4 : 30 15 6 : 30
Thani Bin Jasem Saoud Bin Ahmad BinAbdelrahman Ali Thani Bin Suhim BinJasem Hamad Jasem Hamad HamadBin Al Kabir SaoudBin Hamad Abdelrahman Jasem Suhim Jasem Bin Hamad
th TEAMS
DAY / DATE
Jeish 26//21/ 2012 Sadd Thursday 16 Kharaitiyat Qatar
Lakhwiya Jeish Qatar Lakhwiya
27//21/ 2012 Friday 17
Gharafa Khor Ahli Rayyan
Arabi Kharaitiyat Sadd Arabi
28//21 / 2012 Saturday 18
Rayyan Umm Salal Umm Salal Gharafa
Khor Ahli Wakrah
18th Week 15
TEAMS TEAMS
DAY/ DATE / DATE DAY
Friday 9 / 32/ 2012 Thursday / 2 / 2012 Saturday / 3 / 2012 Friday 3 / 210/ 2012 Sunday Saturday114//32/ /2012 2012
Week16 19thth Week
Arabi Ahli Kharaitiyat Umm Salal Khor Kharaitiyat Rayyan Arabi
Umm Jeish Salal Jeish Qatar
Gharafa Lakhwiya Sadd Qatar
Rayyan Gharafa Lakhwiya Wakrah
TEAMS TEAMS
DAY / DATE DAY / DATE
Jeish Thursday 15 / 3 / 2012 Lakhwiya Thursday 9 / 2 / 2012 Lakhwiya Wakrah Kharaitiyat Friday 16 / 3 / 2012 Umm Friday 10 / 2 / 2012 Ahli Salal
Saturday 17 / 3 / 2012 Saturday 11 / 2 / 2012
th Week Week 20 17th
Arabi Wakrah Kharaitiyat Sadd Qatar
Rayyan Khor Umm Salal Rayyan Arabi Jeish Gharafa Sadd Khor Gharafa Qatar Ahli
TEAMS TEAMS
DAY / DATE DAY / DATE
Khor Friday 23 / 3 / 2012 Ahli Thursday 16 / 2 / 2012 Sadd Qatar Sadd Saturday 24 / 3 / 2012 Khor Kharaitiyat Friday 17 / 2 / 2012 Rayyan Jeish Sunday 25 / 3 / 2012 Saturday 18 / 2 / 2012 Umm ArabiSalal
21thst Week 18
Sadd Wakrah Ahli Khor
Gharafa
Qatar Jeish Wakrah Lakhwiya Rayyan Kharaitiyat Umm Salal Arabi Gharafa Ahli Lakhwiya Wakrah
TEAMS
TIME
4 : 30 6 : 30 4 : 30 6 : 30 4 : 30 6 : 30
TIME TIME
15 46::30 15 68::30 15 46::30 15 68::30 15 46::30 15 68::30
TIME TIME
6 : 15 4 : 30 8 : 15 6 : 30 6 : 15 4 : 30 8 : 15 6 : 30 6 : 15 4 : 30 8 : 15 6 : 30
TIME TIME
6 : 30 48::30 30 6 : 30 6 : 30 48::30 30 6 : 30 6 : 30 48::30 30 6 : 30
VENUE VENUE
AhmadBin BinHamad Ali Jasem Jasem SuhimBin Hamad Thani Bin Jasem Al Khor Hamad AhmadAl BinKabir Ali AhmadBin BinHamad Ali Suhim Suhim BinJasem Hamad Thani Bin
VENUE VENUE
Hamad Al Kabir SuhimBin BinHamad Hamad Jasem Al KhorBin Hamad Jasem Ahmad BinKabir Ali Hamad Al Thani Bin Jasem Jasem Bin Hamad Suhim VENUE VENUE
Ahmad Bin Ali Thani ThaniBin BinJasem Jasem Saoud Bin Abdelrahman Jasem Bin Hamad Suhim Hamad HamadBin Al Kabir Hamad Al Kabir Saoud Bin Abdelrahman Jasem JasemBin BinHamad Hamad Suhim Bin Hamad VENUE VENUE
Al Khor Jasem Hamad HamadBin Al Kabir Suhim Bin Hamad Jasem Bin Hamad Al KhorBin Hamad Jasem Ahmad Bin Ali Ahmad Bin Ali Suhim Hamad HamadBin Al Kabir Thani Bin Jasem
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SPORTS LISTINGS
Karate
Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays: IAID. Shoto Kan, a karate style developed from various martial arts is tackles Karate basics, forms or patterns of moves and sparring. Affiliated with the Qatar Karate Federation, the course is open for kids and adults. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org
Kickfit ONE OF A KIND Track Day for Bikes and Cars Sat 4th: Losail International Circuit. Track day for bikes and cars. Registration times for bikes is 7:30 a.m. till 8:30 a.m. and for cars: 12:00 p.m. till 1:00 p.m. Price per bike is QR 200; price per car is QR 300. For more information, visit www.circuitlosail.com or call 4472-9151.
Qatar National Baja
Sat 25th: QMMF. For more information, call 4437-9884 or email info@qmmf.com.qa
CLASSES Abs and Stretching
Mondays and Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Stay firm and fit by training your core every week! Starts at 8:15 a.m. Complimentary for members; QR 75 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com
Abs Workout
Mondays and Fridays: InterContinental Doha. The instructors will concentrate on your exercise technique to work the abdominal muscles from every conceivable angle. Mondays at 7:15 p.m., Fridays at 11:15 a.m. Free for members, QR 30 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com
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Aerobics
Saturdays - Thursdays: IAID. Aerobics integrates the modern breakthroughs of Pilates, zumba and high intensity interval training. With exciting variations and the use of aero weights, aero steps, aero kickboxing and hi-lo aerobics, participants enjoy a satisfying and fun work out. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org
Ballroom Dancing
Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays: IAID. Ballroom Dancing, a refreshing dance choice, takes participants through a set of partner dances enjoyed at social occasions. Get into the rhythm of swing, salsa, jive, tango, rhumba, cha cha and samba, while reaping the benefits of health and fitness. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org
Circuit Training
Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. Circuit training is widely regarded as the best allround form of group exercise. This session is not for the faint of heart; however, if you enjoy a tough workout in a friendly atmosphere, then this what you’ve been looking for. Starts at 7:00 p.m. QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non–members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com
Circuit Training
Mondays – Saturdays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. First session at 4:00 p.m. and second session at 8:00 p.m. QR 50 per session including use of swimming pool. For more information, call 4496-6410.
Sundays and Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. A hi-energy, martial arts calorie burner, Kickfit combines boxing, karate Muay Thai and Capoiera into a fun, yet challenging, total body workout. Using the shadow boxing format, this class is great for all levels of fitness wanting to burn fat and tone muscles quickly. Sundays at 5:00 p.m. and Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. QR 30 for members and QR 40 for non–members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com
Pilates
Mondays and Wednesdays: Yama Yoga Studios. Pilates classes help to build flexibility, strength and coordingation throughout the whole body. Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 60. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com
Salsa Intro
Tuesdays: Ramada Plaza. Learn the basics of one the hottest dances! Starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 5504-7010, email salsancandela@gmail.com or visit www.salsacandela.com
Spinning
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: InterContinental Doha. The spinning program has no complicated moves to learn, a motivating group environment, top-notch instructors and music that begs your legs to pedal. Best of all, spinning is adaptable to your fitness level. Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m., Fridays at 12:00 p.m., and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. QR 25 for members, QR 35 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com
SPORTS LISTINGS
Spinning (Interval)
Tuesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Crank up your energy with this energizing exercise and start losing all those unwanted pounds. Starts at 5:30 p.m. Complimentary for members; QR 75 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com
Step AO2
Mondays and Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Step AO2 improves both mental and physical fitness, burning away calories while learning fun routines to the newest music. More suitable for intermediate steppers. Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com
Swimming
Wednesdays – Mondays: MÜvenpick Tower and Suites. Lessons for all ages. Book 10 sessions and receive two for free. Adults QR 1,000, Children QR 900. Advanced booking is required. For more information, call 4496-6410.
Yoga Ashtanga 1
Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Ashtanga 1 (Level 1/2) has been designed to introduce students to the Ashtanga practice. Sundays and Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. and Fridays 10:00 a.m. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com
Open Beginner Yoga
Sundays and Tuesdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Level 1 classes are suitable for anyone interested in beginning yoga but who still wants to experience the challenge of a flow yoga class. Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 60 per class. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios. com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com
Open Vinyasa Yoga
Sundays to Tuesdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Experience level 2/3 classes, suitable for people who are looking for a physical challenge, as well as deep relaxation. Starts at 8:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. QR 75 and QR 60 per class. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios. com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com
Prenatal Yoga
Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Prenatal Yoga classes help women experience more comfortable and mindful pregnancies. Sundays at 10:00 a.m. (Ritz), Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m.(Ritz) QR 75 per class and Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. (Yama) QR 60 per class. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com
Al Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 www.alshaqab.com
Ice-Skating
Winter Wonderland (City Centre) 4483-9162 Gondolania Ice Arena (Villagio) 4403-9807 www.gondolania.com
Yoga
Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays: IAID. Yoga relieves stress and meets to overall health and fitness. The course focuses on Hatha Yoga, which paves the way to holistic yogic path including physical postures, purification procedures, poses, yogic breathing and meditation. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org
Zumba
Sailing
Saturdays to Mondays and Wednesdays: IAID. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze and is spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org
Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 www.qmsf.com Regatta Sailing Academy 4442-4577 www.regattasailingacademy.com Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com
ACTIVITIES & CLUBS
Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 www.aspire.qa
Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park
Bowling
The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 www.qatarbowlingcenter.net Gondolania Bowling Center 4403-9807 www.gondolania.com Strike Bowling Alley (City Centre) 4483-9162
Swimming
Tennis & Squash
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666
Walking
New Park at Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche The Pearl-Qatar (2.5 km) Aspire Park
Golf
The Doha Golf Club 4496-0777 www.dohagolfclub.com
Horse Riding
Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857 Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 qatarracing@gmail.com 73
SPECIAL PROMOTION
10 yearS
Of Living The Dream By Nitya Shukla
The first-of-its-kind performing arts academy in Qatar, International Academy for Intercultural Development (IAID), celebrates 10 years of music, arts and dance. IAID caters to all age groups and the courses are conducted by a team of professionals of different nationalities from the field of dance, music, arts, soft skills and fitness. QH finds out what makes IAID so special.
M
usic, arts and dance are the cornerstones of every culture and, in effect, are the mediums through which we can interact with each other despite boundaries of language or regions. They are the means through which we can express the natural born creativity that is inherent in each one of us. And, for the last 10 years, IAID has devoted itself to ensuring the residents of Qatar -children and adults - find their inner creativity, express it in their own individualistic style and present it on national and international platforms. The foundation for this artistic expression was laid ten years ago on December 25, 2001, when the academy was first instituted. Since then, IAID has become synonymous with a novel venture that provides quality training for dance, music and arts. With its efforts, a variety of options and hugely popular classes, the academy continues to unite diverse cultures in the timeless
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forms of dance, music, arts, fitness and soft skills. It is the first of its kind to provide quality training and professional expertise and is affiliated with world-class institutes across the globe. IAID maintains integrated courses that meet international standards and certifications, as it is affiliated with the London College of Music (LCM) – University of West London UK, Nalanda Dance Research Centre (Mumbai, India) and more. The academy has to its credit more than 900 students representing more than 80 nationalities and will soon be approaching the 1,000 student mark. It has opened its doors for anyone who has a passion for the creative arts, and has proven that talent can be guided and nurtured at any age. This year, IAID celebrates 10 years of success in giving quality training for dance, music and arts to the Doha community. IAID offers regular courses in the following categories.
SPECIAL PROMOTION DANCE Check their schedule options, which are available on all courses. 1. BALLROOM DANCE Ballroom dancing teaches participants to gracefully fall into the rhythm of swing, salsa, jive, tango, rumba, cha cha, samba and more Age Group: Seven years old to adult Timings: Saturday, Monday, Wednesday (schedule options available) 2. CLASSICAL & MODERN BALLET Classical ballet is a timeless dance choice for children and adults, conducted by a qualified instructor. Age Group: Four years old to adult 3. JAZZ Jazz classes encourage imaginative and rapid response to music as it includes traditional and up-to-date movements that improve coordination, balance, strength, flexibility and rhythmic awareness. Age Group: Four years old to adult 4. INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE Affiliated with the Nalanda Dance Research Centre, Indian Classical Dance is a seven-year course that tackles the dance styles Bharatnatyam and Mohiniattam. Certificates are awarded to its graduates; "Prarambhika" after four years and "Kovida" after seven years. Age Group: Four years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (twice a week)
MUSIC IAID offers a wide array of choices and is the first public centre in the Middle East affiliated with the London College of Music (LCM) – University of West London, UK. Check their schedule options, which are available on all courses. 1. ACOUSTIC GUITAR & CLASSICAL GUITAR Both Acoustic and Classical Guitar courses follow a progressive LCM curriculum from the Initial level, Preliminary, Grade 1 until Grade 8 and higher.
Age Group: Seven years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (twice a week 2. CLASSICAL AND MODERN PIANO This is a certificate course affiliated with LCM instruction based on progressive handbooks. The course introduces all new concepts that is presented beautifully and paced intelligently with unique music Age Group: Seven years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (twice a week)
Age Group: Four years old to adult. Timings: Saturday to Thursday (twice a week)
FITNESS 1. AEROBICS Invigorating mind-body workout transforms the body while building strength. Age Group: Seven years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (schedule options available)
2. YOGA The Yoga course gives focus to Hatha Yoga, 3. ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD which paves the way to holistic yogic path The electronic keyboard course follows the including physical postures (asana), LCM syllabus, which covers a wide range of purification procedures (shatkriya), poses repertoire options within a structured (mudra), yogic breathing (pranayama) and approach that enables students to meditation. progressively acquire the understanding, knowledge and skills necessary to play and Age Group: Adult to develop capability both as a performer Timings: Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday and as an informed listener. 3. MARTIAL ARTS Age Group: Seven years old to adult IAID specializes on the training of ShotoTimings: Saturday to Thursday (twice a Kan and is affiliated to the Qatar Karate week) Federation. 4. WESTERN VOCALS The Western Vocals course covers classical singing, musical theatre and popular music.
Age Group: Four years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (thrice a week)
Age Group: Six years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (twice a week)
4. ZUMBA Zumba is a dance fitness program based on salsa and other Latin dance moves, performed to Latin and world music beats, and choreographed to allow kids and adults to enjoy a fantastic workout regime.
VISUAL & STUDIO ARTS Those naturally gifted to express their creative streak on paper and canvass will find ultimate expression with the IAID Visual and Studio Arts course. Covering significant elements of basic pencil, colour pencil, watercolour, acrylic medium, clay modeling and sculpture, the course enhances the creative process of each artist
Age Group: Four years old to adult Timings: Saturday to Thursday (schedule options available)
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
TEN YEARS OF SUCCESS Upcoming Attractions Talent Extravaganza Night-Journey to the dream: On the occasion of the Academy’s 10th year anniversary, IAID will stage a special presentation of IAID talents in Dance, Music, Arts & Fitness on the 10th of February 2012 at the Theatre of the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Revolving around the themes of following a dream, the joy of discovery, and the meaning of a journey, over 250 performers will perform classical, cultural and modern pieces set in the backdrop of IAID’s growth in Qatar. Launch of IAID Talent Club: Qualified Mentors from the IAID Teaching Staff will help select IAID talents to develop and perform their talents to the fullest. This club will soon be open to the public and will attract any one with a strong interest to perform professionally as well as develop his/her talents in the field of dance and music.
Facilities • Transport facility • Convenient timings • Personalized assistance • Drop-off facility at the entrance • Safe environment for kids • Loyalty and discount programs • Free Wi-Fi IAID is open for inquiries and registration from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Saturday to Thursday). Interested parties can call 4432-0974/ 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org or visit www.iaidonline.org for details. 76
Beyond dance, music, arts and fitness courses, IAID highlights its talents through events. IAID has been working closely with the Qatar community and has been a part of major events including: The Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 15th Doha Asian Games 2006 From celebrity management, Indian dance consultancy, professional dancers, volunteer performers, make-up and costume crew to professional production services, IAID contributed to this sports spectacle. International Dance and Theatre Festival in Kuwait 2011 The Qatari Theatre production is called ‘The Love Story of Tambourine and Drum and the Black Horn’, an initiative of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage here in Qatar. Selected dance performers from the Academy were chosen to take part in this very prestigious event. Different artists/dance troupes from all over the GCC participated. Annual Family Day of the Doha Tribeca Film Festival at Katara, Cultural Village Having the biggest delegation and participation in this event, the academy highlighted more than 100 talented performers as they showcased contemporary and Bollywood dances, arts and crafts activities, keyboard and guitar ensemble along with singing and dance acts that enthralled a wide audience. Other Events IAID participated includes Qatar Summer Wonders, RasGas Train 6 Inauguration Function, Doha Cultural Festivals, Events at the Qatar Academy of Qatar Foundation, Chairman’s Cup Football Tournament - Qatar Petroleum, Wheels ‘n’ Heels - Reach Out To Asia – Qatar Foundation and the Academy produced a Classical Dance Ballet – "Creation of the Earth" in the year 2006 for the charity in aid of the Reach Out to Asia appeal fund for Qatar Foundation as supported by the Qatar Tourism.
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The Art of Living
LIVE EXPERIENCE TOUCH LOOK
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Miraculously Thai By Moona Whitice and Susanna Wolfe
If you have tired muscles, need to stretch and feel the need to be pampered, a Thai massage is your best prescription. A mixture of yoga, massage and aroma therapy – this massage is going to keep you coming back for more. Thai Massage
Thai massage is over 2,500 years old and in many places around the world is considered medicinal. The benefits of a Thai massage are that it helps keep you young, healthy, assists in detoxing your body and can prevent illness. It also can relieve pain due to the Thaispecific technique which concentrates pressure on the body’s nerve endings. In fact, it is recommended to have a Thai massage at least once or twice per week to keep everything in line and working properly. We tried a few treatments at the recently opened Thai Lady Spa located on Al Waab Street, in order to give you an idea of what you might encounter.
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The Spa
The Thai Lady Spa is beautifully decorated with traditional Thai furniture which translates into a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. What was even more welcoming were the therapists who greeted us in a sweet and courteous manner. Upon entering you will be encouraged to wash your feet and trade in your shoes for a pair of slippers. When you are done with the treatments you will be offered a hot cup ginger tea.
Susanna’s - Aromatherapy Oil Massage
I tried a special version of a Thai massage called Aromatherapy Oil massage. I chose the orange blossom aromatherapy oil for my body massage, which the owner brings from Thailand especially for its revitalizing and energizing qualities.
My therapist Reya, advised me to first step in to the sauna for a short while to warm my muscles and increase the blood circulation in order to be better prepared for the massage.
The Thai Lady spa offers members a After enjoying the sauna, I was advised to discount on all treatments. Ask the manager wrap myself in a towel to lie on a massage for information on how to enroll. table and wait for her to return.
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Upon her return a few minutes later, she began my treatment with a 30 minute massage, working each leg first, then each arm. She then sat on the table and proceeded to apply pressure to my back. She also would occasionally pull my arms and legs. She also applied pressure on my lower back, waist, shoulders and neck. She then got off the table and rubbed my head with oil. It was an interesting, invigorating and relaxing experience . Susanna: “I was slightly apprehensive about this massage at first; however, as soon as she started I knew I was in good hands; knowing hands! An hour and a half goes by in a flash and yes, I do feel so much healthier, relaxed but alert afterwards.”
Moona’s Reflexology Foot Massage
I tried a reflexology massage for my aching, tired legs and feet. As soon as I washed my feet and traded my shoes for slippers, I was asked to follow my therapist into a room that was divided by curtains and had four reclining chairs. The therapist asked me to change into a pair of special shorts that wrapped around my waist. I sat down on the recliner and made myself comfortable until she returned. She offered me a cup of ginger tea to drink during the reflexology treatment. The therapist began the massage on my feet and legs. She massaged and applied pressure on my legs and feet for about 40 minutes, making an emphasis on my ankles, the soles of my feet and my calves. After finishing the therapist asked me to sit up on the chair and she proceeded to apply pressure to my arms, shoulders, back and neck. I was surprised at this. It was
like an extra bonus. (Either that or she felt sorry for me as I must have looked tired) The massage lasted one hour. I was pleasantly surprised by the massage. It was more than I expected, as the massage on my legs and feet were invigorating enough, then to have her work on my neck and back was a plus. My legs felt so much lighter and less tired after I left.
Royal Thai Lady Spa
Address Villa No. 1 Al Waab St. P.O. Box 24350 Doha
Telephone number 4414-2400 Opening hours Saturday to Thursday 9:00 am – 9:00 p.m. Friday 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Special Offer Become a member and enjoy 20% discount on all spa treatments and accumulate points to receive a free spa treatment Massage Treatments Available: Thai Traditional Massage Aroma therapy Oil Massage Hot Oil Massage Reflexology Foot Massage Herbal Pack Massage Cellulite Reduction Massage
QR 180 QR 170 QR 180 QR 180 QR 250 QR 320
60 minutes 60 minutes 60 minutes 60minutes 90 minutes 120 minutes
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brown bag vs. boxed Lunches By Moona Whitice
Looking for a healthy alternative to making your own packed lunch for work? QH looks into two healthy and trim ways to save you time in the morning. Having a healthy lunch every day requires planning. You either have to get up early enough to prepare something fresh, or have it already made the night before. If you find you are pressed for time or running late, your healthy lunch might end up suffering. Here are two companies that can help you resolve the everyday lunch time dilemma. The Diet Center
Founded in Lebanon in 1990 by dedicated specialists, the Nutrition and Diet Center is the first dedicated diet and weight loss health center in the Middle East. The Nutrition and Diet Center’s mission goes beyond the concept of weight loss, helping the region’s communities achieve a better way of living. It has led the regional governments to place good nutrition practices on their agenda. Awareness is their prime drive for changing people’s behaviour. The center's continuous hard work through a number of media and sponsorship efforts, as well as interactive groups has helped bring positive action against diabetes. In the region, 1 in 5 people is affected by diabetes or other obesity-related diseases.
The center is making a difference in the lives and health of our communities; a dream that became a reality when the first Diet Center was established. 82
The Diet Center offers you the solution to lose, gain, or maintain your current weight by eating healthy foods. It puts 20 years' experience in your hands! The Nutrition and Diet Center offers specialized nutritional consultations and healthy delicious meals delivered to your doorstep designed with your calorie requirements, medical status and goal weight in mind for both children and adults. Healthy Box Small – lunch & dinner Healthy Box Big – breakfast, lunch & dinner Lunch Box – salad or soup, main course, dessert, soft drink or water
How it works:
Reserve your desired meal in advance from their wide variety of daily or weekly menu, and they will deliver to your office or home 6 days a week, from Saturday
till Thursday. A daily, weekly or monthly enrolment is available, whichever serves best for you.
Price:
Healthy Box Small Healthy Size: QR 65 Diet Size:QR 60 Healthy Box Big Healthy Size: QR 75 Diet Size: QR 60
Lunch Box
Healthy Size: QR 45 per box Diet Size: QR 40 per box Who to contact for more information : Maricar Cabanatan Ravanes Store Supervisor Tel: (+974) 4466 4995 | Fax: (+974) 44664997 Email: gmsec_doha@dietcenterme.com
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Slim and Lite
A team of highly qualified dieticians and skilled kitchen staff who cater to all your needs with a scrumptious and wellbalanced nutrition program delivered right to your doorstep. Slim ‘n Lite has recently added a new line to their existing services and is introducing The Lunch Box. This program will fuel your mind and body to help enhance your daily work performance. The Lunch Box includes a low calorie, low fat main meal with a healthy salad, guilt free delicious dessert, water, and fruits.
They offer:
• Full Meal Package - helps control all your food intake throughout the subscription period. This package includes: • A thorough nutritional assessment session with the dietitian • Follow up consultations with the dietitian
• Body composition analysis • A varied and nutritious menu • 24 boxes over a period of 4 weeks • Three main meals, desserts, fruits, snacks if required. • Lunch Box - designed to suit the needs of the active workforce and provide you with a healthy lunch meal, low fat and low calories, yet delicious and tasty!
This package includes:
• Main lunch • Salad / soup • Healthy dessert • Fruit • Water
How it works:
You can choose from their weekly menu and reserve your meals 48 hours in advance. It will be delivered to your office or home 5 days a week, from Sunday to Thursday. You can enrol on a
weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. This healthy program also provides monthly or bi-monthly check-up and counselling as to how the process is working for you.
Price:
Full Meal: QR2,500 monthly / 4 weeks
Lunch Box
Per Box: QR 48 Weekly: QR 240 Monthly: QR 960
Who to contact for more information : Roula Araiji Office Manager Tel: (+974) 4432 3035 Fax: (+974 4432 4430 Email roula@slimandlite.com
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New Years Rejuvenation By Laura Prior
If you haven’t done so yet, it’s time to embrace the new year and what better way than with a rejuvenating treatment at Angsana Spa? They have a fantastic range of special treatments designed to invigorate your body, mind and spirit. Luckily for us, they are offering it at a special discounted rate until the end of February – now that’s worth embracing! REJUVENATION PACKAGE: What’s offered? • The "DUET" His and her treatment!
For Him: Join your partner in the 10-minute warm Jacuzzi bath followed by an awakening 90-minute Javanese body massage. Enjoy a refreshing 25-minute face Choose a fantastic 150-minute treatment massage plus a 25-minute Carrot Ginger nestled side by side with 30-minutes body polish. Some of the other rejuvenation of relaxation time and refreshments royalty offerd include a 30-minute body at this award-winning spa. Calm your polish, 60-minute body massage, 30-minute mind and draw in the serenity of your back and foot energy treatment or the surroundings with your partner, best friend classic 30-minute mini-facial. or whoever you love to spend time with. Allow Angsanas friendly and experienced So why not treat you and yours, and ‘enjoy therapists to provide you with a soothing the difference’. Promotional price: QR 699 foot wipe, herbal drink and a few minutes (Usual price: QR 950) to leave the cares of the world behind as all Angsana sessions include a unique • Promotion is valid from "calm time". 1 January – 29 February 2012. (Terms & Conditions apply) For Her: Take an enlivening 10-minute warm Jacuzzi bath followed by a REGULAR REJUVINATION: 60-minute waves body massage. Next What’s the deal? it's 25-minutes of Angsana's trademark • Angsana Spa Wyndham Grand Regency face massage followed by a luxurious Doha privilege card! 25-minute flower petal body polish. Then, onto the final phase of the fun: a 20 minute If our new year offer isn’t enough, get more body mud conditioner to be finished off by as Angsana Spa welcomes you to join them a 10-minute steam and shower. as a loyalty customer with their ‘Privilege
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Members Card’. Sign up to indulge in a range of pampering spa treatments with exclusive privileges. DISCOUNTS • 20% Off Thursday - Saturday • 25% Off Mondays - Wednesdays • 40% Off from 10.00am - 3.00pm on • (Discounts are valid for all treatments and packages except Facial treatments) All for the enrolment fee of just: QR 109. (Terms & conditions apply) FOR RESERVATIONS OR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Angsana Spa Wyndham Grand Regency Doha Tel: +974 44343152-3 Email: spa-wydhamgrandregencydoha@ angsanaspa.com Web: www.angsana.com
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e r o t S ew
Npenings O
SUITEBLANCO
SuiteBlanco opened its doors recently at the Lagoona Mall. Hailing from Spain the ladies brand has decided to expand to the Middle East starting in the UAE in 2010 and now in Doha. With stores in Greece, Portugal, the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia, the brand reflects Blanco’s vision of freedom to dream of everything that the fashion realm has to offer. The brand is faithful to the young, urban spirit of the woman it is targeting. Every season, its varied collections of the clothing and accessories blend the best top trends and design with great value for money.
TOUJOURI
The world renowned architect Peter Marino has recently been commissioned to design Toujouri, the Qatar based fashion brand outlet which will soon open at the iconic Pearl Qatar. The store represents a unique interpretation of the label’s spirit and redefinition of the translation of Toujouri ‘treasure box.’
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U.S POLO OPENS at Lagoona Mall
Fashion is something we deal with every day and forms the basis of our personality, taste and standards. With the opening of the new U.S Polo at Lagoona Mall you'll find a place that will help you dress in style shine with confidence.
P
eople of all ages judge other people by the way they dress and what they incorporate in their daily clothing. Most people who are considered 'fashionable' have always had a keen eye on U.S. Polo Association: with its keen sense of what looks and colours match and complement. If you want to be stylish yet laid-back then you have to know exactly where to look for casual clothing. Search no further thanks to the U.S. Polo Association's flagship store here in Doha.
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Played among Turcoman tribes 2000 years ago, polo is known as the 'game of kings' in the East. Discovered by British tea farmers at the beginning of 1800s, Polo evolved into a game for nobles. Polo was first played in England in 1869 and James Gordon Bennet introduced the sport in 1876 in New York and by this time U.S. Polo had become an international brand, marketing a wide variety of products. U.S. Polo Association Doha is the result of a cooperation between Al Siddiqi group and Quattro Egypt known under the name of NQ11 and it chose Doha for its newest
outlet due to an open market and a population known for its love of fashion. U.S. Polo Association stores cater to a wide variety of men’s and woman’s sportswear, children’s wear, junior boys’ and girls’ apparel, footwear and accessories which fit all ages and all tastes. It is a company that has been in the fashion industry for many years now, earning a reputation as a high end, globally recognized brand with stores around the globe. The new branch in Doha is located in the Lagoona Mall in the Zigzag Towers, West Bay.
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Hot Yoga At George V Spa By Layla Al-Dorani
Hot yoga, a trend that promises mental and physical benefits, has been spreading, well, like a heat wave. One of the common misconceptions people have is why teach hot yoga in a hot country? Simply because most yoga classes are taught in air conditioned hotel gyms that are meant for aerobics-style classes.
I was having an internal battle with myself, not because of the poses, which was beginner friendly, but a mental challenge within my mind.
I
remember my first Bikram class in Texas and it was like walking into a sauna, or more like getting off a plane in Qatar during the summer. I was already sweating and all I did was sit on my mat while I waited for the teacher to start the class. Half way through, I was having a panic attack, and thought that there was no possible way I can go on because I don’t think my lungs could handle this.
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This what it all came down to, ‘mind over body or body over mind’, whichever one it was I had to choose. I knew I was probably exaggerating my state of panic and drama, like we all do in life events. Once I won the battle, meaning I stayed in class for the whole 90 minutes without running out the door, I realized that our bodies have the capability to do extraordinary things. The key is to stay committed and focused. Traditionally yoga has been performed in India without air conditioned rooms.
When Bikram Choudhury, the father of hot yoga, moved to the West to teach, he was struggling to understand why his students were continuously injuring themselves during practice. Finally he realized that of the different climate the body wasn’t open or relaxed, so he decided to heat the room. Then the birth of hot yoga came into existence. Bikram yoga is a set series of 26 copyrighted sequences over 90 minutes, practiced in a 105 degrees heated room with humidity of 40 percent. He believes his method eases the symptoms of a range of maladies— depression, diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, migraines,
QH SENSATIONS arthritis, back pain, and heart disease, for instance—while relaxing the mind and slimming the body. One class can burn up to 630 calories per hour. Lately there has been an evolution of hot yoga. Some teachers found that Bikram’s style of yoga is too rigid and decided to develop their own sweaty yoga formats and I was one of them. After some time exploring different styles of yoga, I came across another school of thought, hot vinyasa yoga. Practicing a slow vinyasa, or flowing series of poses, in a room that is not necessarily as ‘hot’ as Bikram, but “warm” less than 95-degree room still making the body loose and pliable. It gives the teachers and students new opportunities to explore different poses other than the basic 26, allowing more room for growth. Each class consists of a series of postures that systematically stimulate the muscles, organs and glands, as well as the nervous system. As you progress through the postures, you will move freshly-oxygenated blood throughout the body. While looking good is the goal for most of us, hot yoga provides so much more. In just one class,you will sweat, smile, work, de-stress and improve your overall health, spirit and self-image more than you can imagine! With dedicated practice, you will benefit from increased stamina, flexibility, strength and balance. The surprise will come when you discover you have increased concentration, patience, determination and self control. Hot yoga will restore your body. It is a true prescription for overall health.
Other benefits of hot yoga include: accelerated weight loss, stress reduction, improved balance, more developed muscle tone, lower blood pressure, headache relief, improved concentration and a greater love of life! Every hot yoga class is suitable for all ages and all fitness levels; everyone practices the same postures at different levels of ability. Classes are 60 minutes and mixed, unless the schedule states otherwise. Most importantly, 100% effort yields 100% benefit, whether you are a beginner or an advanced student. Layla Al-Dorani is a visiting yoga instructor at George V Spa, owner of Body Bliss Qatar and Raw Middle East dedicated to providing healthy lifestyle choices for diet
and exercise, including sale of organic products, juice cleanses and superfoods. Being half Qatari and half American she has a modern approach to life and is able to bring the best of both worlds together. She is one of the first Qatari's to be 500hr Yoga Alliance certified yoga teacher. She is also certified in Reiki, Zumba, and Raw Nutrition. Her rich experience and training in teaching people of all ages,genders, abilities and body types makes her the perfect instructor to gently help you reach a new depth in your poses, as well as your consciousness.
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Celebrate Valentine’s Day Express your gratitude to your friends and family this month by treating them to a very special Valentine’s Day. QH gives you the heads up on everything that is happening in the city to celebrate this special occasion. There are many events taking place in Doha this month to celebrate friendship. Welcome Valentine’s Day in style and get the best deals in town.
Resort & Spa with breakfast for two and last but not least, vouchers for the West End dining and health club/spa.
THE PERFECT MOMENT AND THE PERFECT PLACE TO BE
Venue:
Grand Hyatt Doha is preparing for the first “Best for the Best” Valentine’s celebration in Qatar. Imagine yourself having a candle-lit dinner under the stars, the light sound of waves gently enhancing the atmosphere as a band plays live just for you. All that can be possible if you spend your Valentine’s Day at the Grand Hyatt Doha. The hotel will transform its 400-meter private beach into a lovely set-up that will blow your mind and warm your heart. The dining experience will include a tailor-made five-course menu designed by their Executive Chef, Michael Poutawa, with a Rose Magnum of bubbly and a bouquet of roses. Venue: Date: Time: Reservations: Smoking or Non-smoking: Vino: Dress Code: Prize:
Private beach at Grand Hyatt Doha February 14 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m. 44481272 Yes Yes Smart Casual QR 2000
WIN A KEY TO HER HEART AT THE WEST END
West End, located at the Renaissance Doha City Center in West Bay is the newest addition to Doha’s scenery. More than seven entertaining sizzling spots can be found inside the precinct that caters for everyone’s taste. Book a Valentine’s Day menu for dinner at Cucina the Italian Kitchen or the New York Steak House that the whole family can enjoy. The restaurants will be giving away fantastic prizes including: a golden key jewelry with diamonds from LoneStar Jewelry, as well as a two-night stay in the JW Marriott Dubaiincluding breakfast for two, a two-night stay in the Harbour View Marriott Hotel with a spa treatment for two, a two-night stay in the Marriott Jordan Valley Dead Sea 90
Date: Time: Reservations: Smoking or Non-smoking: Vino: Dress Code: Prize:
Cucina the Italian Kitchen or the New York Steak House Renaissance Doha City Center February 14th 12:00 p.m. – 11 p.m. / 6:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. 44196100 or visit www.westenddoha.com Yes Yes Smart casual QR 180 / QR 400
VALENTINE’S AT LA CIGALE TRAITEUR
La Cigale Hotel has many exclusive promotions in store for this Valentine’s. Surprise your loved ones with La Cigale Traiteur gourmet Valentine gift that includes a selection of delicacies: heart-shaped chocolate, heart-shaped bread and bakeries or a heart-shaped cake with different sizes and flavours. Pick-up your favourite chocolate arrangements displayed on silver trays, bowls, wooden boxes or baskets, and even crystal and porcelain decorative items. You can also have impressive flower arrangements specially designed to be the perfect gift for your Valentine. A wide variety of fresh flowers and red roses are available. For inquiries, please contact 44428 8803 or 4428 8820.
A SPECIAL EVENING AT LE CENTRAL RESTAURANT
On February 14 enjoy an exquisite and truly magical Valentine's evening with songs performed live by talented musicians, red roses and gifts at Le Central – La Cigale Hotel. The French chef has brought the Mediterranean flavours altogether in a four-course set menu to enjoy with your special ones. Venue:
La Central restaurant at La Cigale Hotel
Smoking or Non-smoking: Yes Date: February 14th Vino: Yes Time: 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Dress Code: Smart Casual / 7:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Prize: Ladies free entrance, Reservations: 44288772 gentlemen QR 100 Smoking or Non-smoking: Yes Vino: Yes Dress Code: Smart Casual VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER AT PORCINI Prize: QR 750 including a For the more romantic ones, the Ritz Carlton Doha also has glass of prosecco something on offer. Be enchanted in little Italy, with a five-course wine per person ensemble of creations by Chef Ricardo and his team of 'Il Giardino
SHARE IN FRIENDSHIP AT THE SHERATON DOHA
Latino, the Latest Restaurant at Sheraton Doha, offers the best South American cuisine and music performed by Aura Live Latino Duo. On the 14 of February Latino will open its doors to treat couples with a four-course set menu at QR 260 including water and tea or coffee. Latino at Sheraton Doha Venue: Date: February 14th 06:00 p.m. – 02:00 p.m. Time: Reservations: 44854444 Smoking or Non-smoking: Available Vino: Yes Smart Casual Dress Code: Prize: QR 260
TREAT YOURSELF AT MAISON DU CAVIAR
The lovely package at Masion du Caviar will make your Valentine’s an enjoyable occasion. Treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable Valentine's Day outing. A special array of treats await, including a bouquet of flowers, bottle of cava, five-course dinner and a limo pick-up and drop-off service. Venue: Masion Du caviar at W Doha Date: February 14th Time: 8:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Reservations: 44535303 Smoking or Non-smoking: Yes Vino: Yes Dress Code: Smart Casual Prize: QR 950
SPICE UP YOUR VALENTINE’S
Marina Nightclub (Admiral’s Club Upper Deck) invites you to come and celebrate the special day where Ladies get one glass of sparkling on arrival before midnight. Unwind with the famous DJ Anza, hosting this special event together with Lady DJ Kat and a live band invited from Ireland. The night will see some memorable challenges and winners of superb hotel prizes, a high end mobile device, and two return tickets to a very romantic surprise destination! Venue: Admiral’s Club at the Ritz Carlton Date: February 10th Time: 09:00 p.m. - 02:00 a.m. Reservations: 44848000
Armonico' chefs who will orchestrate an evening to delight the palate. Venue: Porcini at the Ritz Carlton Date: February 14th Time: 07:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Reservations: 44848000 Smoking or Non-smoking: Yes Vino: Yes Elegant Dress Code: Prize: QR 450 per person including a glass of bubbly
CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S IN CHINESE STYLE
D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant at Holiday Villa will offer couples a cozy evening while enjoying a scrumptious dinner. D’Chopstix Chinese & Venue: Japanese Restaurant at Holiday Villa Date: February 14th Time: 06:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Reservations: 44084230 Smoking or Non-smoking: Available Vino: Yes Dress Code: Smart Casual Prize: QR 279
SHARING PLATE EXTRAVAGANZA
Enjoy your Valentine’s Day with a special five-course sharing menu for two with an Asian twist and soft drinks. In addition Mövenpick Towers & Suites Doha is offering a 50 per cent off deal for the entire month of February if you eat at Wok Mee between 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Venue: Mövenpick Towers & Suites Date: Whole month of February Time: 06:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Reservations: 44966600 or visit www.movenpick-doha-tower.com Smoking or Non-smoking: No Vino: No Dress Code: Smart Casual Prize: QR 260
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AN ARABIAN VALENTINE’S DAY
Take your loved ones out for a “Romeo & Juliet Evening” at the Flying Carpet restaurant inside the spectacular Torch hotel near Villagio Mall. Enjoy a delicious seafood menu, Valentine chocolate and ice carvings, as well as a welcome drink served upon arrival. Romantic Moonlight Duo will add to the exquisiteness of the night. Venue: Flying Carpet at the Torch Hotel Date: February 14th Time: 07:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Reservations: 44465600 Smoking or Non-smoking: No Vino: No Dress Code: Smart Casual Prize: QR 190
JAZZY VALENTINE NIGHT
Oryx Rotana has one of the best jazz lounges in town. For this Valentine’s, celebrate your day to a jazz beat from the Jazz Club. Come and enjoy some great music with your friends or your special date as the Oryx Doha presents a night of Jazz music and a captivating ambiance. If you are ready for a night of romantic Valentine Day surprises, then don't miss out on this event. Venue: Jazz Club at the Oryx Rotana Date: February 14th Time: 07:00 p.m. - 02:00 a.m. Reservations: 44023333 Smoking or Non-smoking: Yes Vino: Yes Dress Code: Smart Casual Prize: QR 514 per couple (basic package) or QR 814 QAR per couple (premium package).
VALENTINE’S DAY AT MILLENNIUM
Milenium Hotel offers a celebratory buffet at Cosmo Restaurant on Valentine’s Day and guests will enjoy a sweet candlelight dinner with a special red rose on the way as a gesture of appreciation from the Millennium team. Venue: Cosmo Restaurant at Millennium Hotel Date: February 14th 07:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Time: Reservations: 44247362 Smoking or Non-smoking: Yes Vino: No Dress Code: Smart Casual Prize: QR 150
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ENJOY IL TEATRO THIS VALENTINE’S
Treat your special someone to a Valentines dinner at Il Teatro on February 14. The Four Seasons Doha has created three different menus for you to celebrate the special occasion. Menu one - San Valentino four course menu, including one Cocktail/mocktail on arrival, coffee and love chocolate petite fours. QAR 520 Menu two - Sparkling San Valentino four course menu, including cocktail/mocktail upon arrival, one bottle of Sparkling Wine, coffee and love chocolate petit fours. QAR 1,250 Menu three - Champagne San Valentino four course menu, including cocktail/mocktail upon arrival, one bottle of Champagne, coffee and love chocolate petit fours. QAR 2,850 Entertainment: In house romantic Italian music Dinner: 7:00 p.m. until 11:30 p.m.
FUN AND ROSES AT THE W DOHA
W Doha is without a doubt the trendiest hotel in town, and this Valentine’s Day will be another occasion for the W to show why. The hotel offers three different packages for people to enjoy. • One-night stay at the WOW suite with IRD breakfast and a three-course candlelight dinner for two in one of their private cabana’s including specialty drinks and a bouquet of roses. QR 2,999. • Three-course candlelight dinner for two in one of their private cabana’s including specialty drinks. QR 700. • Three-course candlelight dinner for two in one of their private cabana’s including soft drinks. QR 500 Packages only valid on Valentine’s Day (February 14) and available for booking starting Thursday, January 19.
QH SENSATIONS EXPERIENCE
Escaping to fantastic happening destinations around the world does wonders. Here are some
Ivrea Carnival Feb. 18th - 21st: Italy. This yearly orange-throwing festival is a tradition dating back to the 19th century. Pick up an orange and start a playful fight in any part of the city, or watch from safety. Thousands of tourists flock to this festival, so make a reservation early! To find out more, visit www.carnifest.com.
Carnival in Rio de Jeneiro
Carnaval de QuĂŠbec
Feb. 21st: Canada. Travel to Quebec for the yearly Quebec Winter Carnival. Bundle up in your warmest gear and enjoy plenty of family activities, including a parade and Bonhomme Carnaval, the living replica of a legendary snowman popular in Quebec. To find out more, visit www.carnaval.qc.ca.
Feb. 18th - 21st: Brazil. This wild annual
celebration always starts on a Saturday and ends on Fat Tuesday. Carnival always includes plenty of singing and dancing, so invest in some Samba lessons before you head to Rio! To get in on the action, visit www.rio-carnival.net.
Mardi Gras
Feb. 21st: New Orleans.
Continue the celebrations by heading to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday. Festivities include a parade, plenty of history and maybe even some Mardi Gras party beads! For more information, go to www. mardigrasneworleans.com.
Adelaide Fringe Festival
Feb. 24th - Mar 18th: Australia. Head to the sunny climes of Australia for the biggest Adelaide Fringe Festival yet! With 923 events, 325 venues and more than 4,000 artists signed up so far, this promises to be the best Fringe Festival of the year! To get the inside scoop, visit www.adelaidefringe. com.au. to celebrate the start of the year of the dragon, visit www.chinahighlights.com. 93
Creative and Innovative Interior Design Concepts RESIDENTIAL. COMMERCIAL. OFFICES. PRIVATE VILLAS
For your interior design needs, contact the Forum design Team Tel. No. +974 4456-8716 Fax: No. +974 4456-8730 An associate of AHB Trading & Contracting W.L.L
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SPOTLIGHT ON BOOKS
Here’s how you can find out what’s hot this month: QH brings you the top selections from Virgin Megastore. And watch for the QH heart in stores! DIARY OF A WIMPY KID 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' is the diary of Greg Heffley, except Greg wants the readers to know, "This is a JOURNAL, not a diary" and "...this was MOM's idea, not mine." Greg and his friend Rowley are at it again. They put up posters for their Christmas bazaar and the rain stains it onto the school walls. Greg is being considered the main culprit but he insists he's innocent. Find out how a miracle happened! This is a brilliantly hilarious book which every parent and child ought to have.
GREAT BY CHOICE Very appropriately titled 'Great by Choice'! The writers present a strong evidence through their exhaustive and extensive research (which included reviewing 7,000 historical documents!) that it’s not what happens to us but what we do about it; "…this study shows that whether we prevail or fail, endure or die, depends more upon what we do than on what the world does to us…" Everyone makes mistakes but what do we really need to do to step in and develop greatness?
STEVE JOBS Biography by Walter Isaacson Walter Isaacson compares Jobs to Nietzche’s superman, a person who forms values which originated in the everyday changing world, someone who, by having faith in his own innate sense of what is good and unpleasant, succeeds better than any other. Jobs as a child made his parents sell their house and buy another one that was far above their means in order for him to qualify for a better school. Maybe you can be the next Steve Jobs! 96
ALEPH If you love another novel from Coelho this is a story that will appeal to those who see life as a journey. The writer weaves himself into the canvas of the novel that sketches out his spiritual development and restoration.
INHERITANCE After the big battle with the Empire’s warriors on the Burning Plains, Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, have barely escaped with their lives. Still there is more at hand for the rider and his dragon, as Eragon finds himself bound by a tangle of promises he may not be able to keep. Eragon is the greatest hope to rid
SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES
IN THEATRES THIS FEBRUARY
Top 5 movies
opening soon THE WOMAN IN BLACK Drama | Horror | Thriller
A young lawyer travels to a remote village where he discovers the vengeful ghost of a scorned woman terrorizing the locals. Director: James Watkins Stars: Daniel Radcliffe, Janet McTeer, CiarĂĄn Hinds, Shaun Dooley
W.E Drama | Romance A two-tiered romantic drama focusing on the affair between King Edward VIII and American divorcĂŠe Wallis Simpson and a contemporary romance between a married woman and a Russian security guard. Director: Madonna Stars: Abbie Cornish, James D'Arcy, Andrea Riseborough, Oscar Isaac
BIG MIRACLE Drama | Romance In smalltown Alaska, a news reporter recruits his ex-girlfriend - a Greenpeace volunteer - on a campaign to save a family of gray whales trapped by rapidly forming ice in the Arctic Circle. Director: Ken Kwapis Stars: Drew Barrymore, John Krasinski, Kristen Bell, Dermot Mulroney
SAFE HOUSE Action | Crime | Mystery | Thriller A young CIA agent is tasked with looking after a fugitive in a safe house. But when the safe house is attacked, he finds himself on the run with his charge. Director: Daniel Espinosa Stars: Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds, Robert Patrick, Vera Farmiga
THE VOW Drama | Romance A car accident puts Paige in a coma, and when she wakes up with severe memory loss, her husband Leo works to win her heart again. Director: Michael Sucsy Stars: Rachel McAdams, Channing Tatum, Sam Neill, Jessica Lange
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BILAL PEARL SUITES OPENING The Pearl - Qatar December 28, 2011
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IT HAPPENED
BILAL PEARL SUITES OPENING The Pearl - Qatar December 28, 2011
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WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS Katara Jan 11, 2012
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IT HAPPENED
JAPANESE WEEK Sharq Village & Spa Jan 23, 2012
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Photos by: Asa Heiden
SWEDISH NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM Friendly match. Al Sadd Stadium. Jan 21, 2012.
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IT HAPPENED
Photos by: Hissa Al-Atiya
QATAR EXXONMOBIL TENNIS OPEN 2012 Qatar Tennis Federation Jan 2-7, 2012
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QATAR EXXONMOBIL TENNIS OPEN 2012 Qatar Tennis Federation Jan 2-7, 2012
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IT HAPPENED
QATAR EXXONMOBIL TENNIS OPEN 2012 Qatar Tennis Federation Jan 2-7, 2012
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QATAR EXXONMOBIL TENNIS OPEN 2012 Qatar Tennis Federation Jan 2-7, 2012
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IT HAPPENED
AL KHOR FLYIN DAY Al Khor Airport January 13, 2012
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AL KHOR FLYIN DAY Al Khor Airport January 13, 2012
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IT HAPPENED
ADIDAS HOST Meet and greet Bayern Munich
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U.S. POLO ASSN. OPENING Lagoona Mall Jan 21, 2012
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PHONE DIRECTORY
Hospitals / Emergency Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital Emergency Hotline Al Ahli Hospital
999 4438 4333 4435 5999 4489-8000
Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trad. & Cont. Co.
4442-8877
Interior Design Forum Design
4456 8716
Hotels / Restaurants Al Bustan
4432-8888
Al Seef
4433-2222
Chowking Salwa Road Al Saad St.
4437-1212 4431-4411
Courtyard by Marriott Doha City Center
4419-5555
Doha Marriott Hotel
4429-8888
Four Seasons
4494-8888
Grand Hyatt
4448-1234
InterContinental 4484-4444 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale Hotel
4428-8888
Marriott Executive Apartments 4419-6000 Doha City Center Mercure Grand
4446-2222
Merwebhotel Central Doha
4409-4444
Doha Dental 4431-7766 Hamad General Hospital 4439-2222 Rumailah Hospital 4439-3333 Pediatric Emergency Centre 4439-2948 Qatar Foundation for Child & Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671 / 72 / 73
Spas / Salons
Shopping
Al Thuraya Ladies Club 4456-9089 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496 6410 Bliss 4453-5555 4498-0033 Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Diplomatic Spa 4484-7412 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Lucia Hair Dressing 4485-4011 4494-8801 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8844 Frank Provost George V Spa 4412-2046/47 Glow American Salon, Salwa 4468-9945 4411-7652 Westbay 4428-8888 La Cigale - Ozone Spa La Coifure Frances 4468-9211 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Mohamad Al Sagheer Salon 4425-6164 Pace & Luce 4493-4000 4485-4012 Patrice Salon Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 4425-6999 Six Senses Spa Spa Chakra 4499-9250
Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 Blue Salon 4446-6111 4483-0582 City Center Doha Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 4487-5222 Landmark Mall Royal Plaza 4413-0000 Salam 4448-5555 4413-5222 Villaggio 4425-7777 51 East
Tourism / Travel
Alpha Tours 4434-4496 Arabian Adventures 4436-1461 Millennium Hotel 4424-7777 Black Pearl Tourism Services 5555-1169 4429-1111 World Wide Destination 4467-1200 Mövenpick Hotel 4449-6973 Discover Qatar Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6600 4438-4477 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Emirates Airlines Fox Transport 4462-2777 4428-1555 Ramada Plaza Gulf Adventures 4422-1888 Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-1428 Qatar Airways Reservations 4449-6666 Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000 Qatar Airways Holidays 4449-6969 4445-5333 Qatar International Adventures 4455-3954 Safir Doha Hotel 4455-1141 Qatar International Tours Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 Qatar Tourism & Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666 Exhibitions Authority 4499-7499 Sheraton Doha 4485-4444 Regency Travel & tour 4434-4444 4441-9301 The Torch Doha Hotel 4446-5600 Travco Qatar Holidays 4466-6635 Victoria Car Rental 4453-5353 W Doha Wyndham Grand Regency
Community Australian and New Zealand 6651-1892 Business in Qatar Group American Women’s Association 5511-8085 4447-4911 Doha Players Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171 French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467 German Stammtisch 4487-6959 Illonggos 5595-9561 Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052 Qatar Intl. Beauty Academy 4454-2422 Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 Red Dotters Qatar 5520-9294 Simplemente Amigas 5551-8358 Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598 South African Ladies Association 5589-2366 Spanish Speaking Ladies Group 6664-2094 Talking Matters Toastmasters 5580-7524 Tuesday Ladies Group 5573-5078 Turkish Ladies Group 5550-8026
Clubs Bridge Club Doha Garden Club Dana Club Diplomatic Club Doha Golf Club Doha Sailing Club Filcom Toastmasters Club Qatar Scientific Club
5554-0873 5523-1650 4496-0600 4484-7444 4496-0777 4443-9840 5540-3971 4458-3780
4434-3333 111
bring out the
dragon... leave the rest to Ruby Wu’s With its vibrant ‘buzz’, why don’t you experience the atmosphere of our Award Winning Chinese restaurant. Ruby Wu’s will astound you with its culinary delights - Dumplings to Duck, Sizzling Beef to Spiced Snapper, there is bound to be something to bring out the dragon in you.
For more information visit:
www.ramadaplazadoha.com or call (+974) 44281428 RAMADA PLAZA DOHA
P.O.Box 1768 - Doha State of Qatar
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AHMED HASSAN BILAL TRADING & CONTRACTING CO.
Experience The Elegance Of Perfection Townhome 101
GRAND ELEGANCE Located on the marina with breathtaking views of the turquoise water, it is a remarkable feat of architecture and interior design. Access to upscale boutiques, luxury pool and gym amenities, fine dining or a leisurely stroll on the boulevard are just an elevator ride away. This majestic three storey Townhome with built-in elevator, high ceilings and several entertaining areas, offers a lifestyle fit for royalty.
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To rent contact us: P.O. Box: 7848 | Doha-Qatar | (+974) 4442 8877 | 5571 1488 | 6667 1495 marketing@ahbqatar.com | www.ahbqatar.com
Qatar Happening 20cm X 26.5cm
An Address of Luxury
Residences
Leisure & Recreation
Al Gassar Ballroom
The St. Regis Doha
Exclusive lifestyle within your reach Al Gassar Resort, a new waterfront destination in Doha, offers residents and visitors the opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury living in an amazing waterfront community. Located in an ideal location in the West Bay with breathtaking views overlooking the Arabian Gulf; Al Gassar Resort promises exclusivity with its sophisticated Residence, magnificent Ballroom, 5-star hotel the St. Regis Doha and a host of high-end features and amenities. Experience true luxury at Al Gassar Resort.
Developed and managed by:
Tel: (974) 4440 8308/8326 www.algassarresort.com