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Contents september
48
GRILLED IN A MINUTE
Meet the mastermind behind Blue Restaurant
31 41 EID101
What to wear and how to look glamorous
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BEAUTY GUIDE
New season, new products – what’s trending and what’s cool in the beauty department
20 55
THE ART HUB
Exhibitions you need to visit this month
SENSATIONS
Introducing Bliss Spa’s fab facial treatment – review by Karen @clumsychic
ON THE COVER
Al Istiqlal St
QATAR'S FORERUNNING HOME-GROWN MAGAZINE
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FROM THE DESK
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Exclusive illustration created by Andrea Tobar
ABOUT US Chairman Mr.Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief Mr. Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Managing Editors Harriet Gyamfuah Sofia Graniello Marketing Manager Azqa Haroon Copy Editor Sarah Linklett
Dear Friends, As you read this, we have started a new journey with a new QH team and delighted to have you on board as we take the magazine to new heights. First and foremost, we would like to wish you all a blessed Eid Al-Adha and for those who are new to Doha, a very warm welcome. In this issue, we mark the beginning of a new season and a new fresh start. Within this issue, in our Food District, we tackle delicious menus giving you tips and tricks on where to dine, Doha’s favourite hotspots, plus new chefs on the scene. With so much to delve into, Qatar Happening proudly brings you a guide of our beloved city and all that makes it exciting, thrilling, and place of abundance. We hope you find our newly revamped edition eye-opening and inspiring, and don’t forget to look out for our great online presence through our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. On behalf of the QH team, enjoy another great issue.
Art Director/Production Manager Srimani Welagedara Photographer Abshar Kader Faras Ghani Office Administrator Carmela Yao Digital & Social Media Coordinators Eva Oseen Noor Salama Contributors Sally Clark Pooja Adam Karen Nicolet Distribution Assistant Jaya Prasad Gautam
NASSER AHMED HASSAN BILAL Editor-in-Chief
CONTACT US Feedback and comments: Email: info@qatarhappening.com Inquiries: +974 4443-2224 +974 4427-8416 For marketing and advertising: Email: marketing@qatarhappening.com Marketing: +974 5584-4905 P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar
QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers. All rights reserved 2017, 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 QAR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available. Printed by
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! e r e h T i H , h O M THE D FRO R O W A
RS EDITO
cts in new produ , n o s a e s New the beauty
Take a peek at Doha’s upbeat nightlife as we give you the spots to be see n.
ie point food e th o t d ja k an For a quic rom @flyingfoodnin f guide, Sally ite out of Zengo. takes a b
Check out in ou ultimate EI r fashion section the D 101 guide on how to look great.
Greece for to s l ve ra t ia f o S encounter of an aphrodisiac delicacies. Mediterranean 4
Harriet gives the lowdown on one of Seychelles’ most authentic restaurants.
it’s hap pening FROM FAMILY DAYS OUT TO NIGHT TIME HAPPENINGS, BE IN THE KNOW OF THIS MONTH’S ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS; PLUS BRACE YOURSELF AS YOU READ THE MOVIE REVIEW FOR THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED HORROR THRILLER “IT”. 5
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
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t o hT e H SUNDAY
MONDAY
ROUNDUP OF THE MUST-DO ACTIVITIES OF THIS MONTH! TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
03 04 05 06 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 17 24 25 26 27 The Pen Is Mightier ord Than The Swlag a e Foundation - Katar
What? Cultural Vil for lligraphy Workshop presents Diwani Ca j ee Ar ist art Kuwaiti beginners, taught by lem Sa Ald Hama dio B19 Where? Katara Art Stu esday 12th Tu When? Sunday 10th– m 8p mSeptember, 5p Fee? QR200 : For more information 33 02 • 4408 years old & above • Open to ladies 17 y of 10 seats • Limited availabilit
That Carnival Spirit
What? Funkiest ladies night in town with a carnival atmosphere, Copacabana Where? Toro Toro at Marsa Malaz Kempinski hotel, The Pearl-Qatar When? Every Wednesday from 8pm Fee? n/a
For more information: • 4035 5101 • torotoro@torotorodoha.com
Dance Like No One Is Watching
ries, What? Release all your wor life at trust your feet and celebrate s Evolve’s Ecstatic Dance Clas l hote a Doh tt Hya nd Gra re? Whe pm 8.15 at day nes Wed When? Every r free Fee? Register now to get you get pass… and join the party… and fit!
On Your Get Set, Marks, What? BOUNCE T the M he largest ! iddle E tramp o a
Where line pa st, Bo u ? r When Tawar Mall nce Doha o k in ? Now pens op Fee? P rice st en arts fr om QR For m 90 pp /hr ore in forma • 432 tion: 1 140 0 • ww w.bou nce.qa
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For more information: • 5040 3234 com • www.evolvemindbodysoul.
Take Flight in Age Old Traditions al
What? The largest internation falcon exhibition, events and activities at the Katara cons International Hunting and Fal Exhibition ’s Where? Building 12, at Katara m Wisdom Square, 10am-10p h20t y When? Wednesda Sunday 24th September Fee? Free For more information: • info@katara.net
01 08 15 22 29
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THURSDAY
07 14 21 28
What? The ge and Jerry live on sta entertainment Tom this Eid Al Adha l City, Center Court – Where? Doha Festiva Ground Floor 4.30pm; of Eid Al Adha, 4pmWhen? 1st-5th day 5pm-9.45pm 7.45pm-8.15pm; 9.1 ghout for five days all throu Fee? Free daily show Eid : For more information 00 86 • 4494
Get Your Skates On!
Copyright © Jessica FulfordDobson
What? The Skate Girls of Kabul is a stunning showcase of portraits depi cting the extraordinary story of Afghani girls between the ages of five and 17 who use skat eboarding as a motivation to attend school Where? QM Gallery in Katara Cultural Village When? Exhibition is on now till 21st October Fee? Free For more information: • www.qm.org.qa/en
ohraian D n I r amoonuth, the Mdovnibdrancy l G d o m o n Holalyt?wOpeningintghsisthe eneorfgtyhea origiBnaayl Wh l br rip vibe e West hote t h Doha Sunset S drian to t Doha all f n e of th ood Mo urhood o agoona M o w s L Holly n neighb next to ervation s d o e e o r t g a g a c L in o at cept re? L Whe ? Now ac s starting e n Whe oom rat t R h Fee? 5 per nig 7 8 : QR ation m nform ndoha.co i e r o a i r m d For w.mon • ww
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
02 09 16 23 30
Japan In n o o n r e t f A nd An oon tea, a love aftern
you en you What? So apanese, th J s g in th ll you love a rnoon Tea obu’s Afte sons hotel will love N Sea obu, Four pm Where? N ay 3pm-6 rd ery Satu v E ? r n o e t h e s W a 5 classic te Fee? QR19 et s a te g lin ark QR240 sp n: informatio For more 00 • 4494 86
Dim Sum, anyone?
with a What? Splashing Dim Sum brunch day! l poo complimentary Where? Shangri-La Hotel, West Bay to When? Every Saturday from 12.30pm 4pm Fee? QR238 For more information: • 4429 5295 • T&C apply • Offer valid now till 30th September
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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS
NIKIDOM ROLLER BLACK/CUORE TROLLEY BAG Nikidom›s Roller is the most robust, ergonomic and convenient to go to school backpack! Roller features a front compartment with two small pockets and one large grid, ideal for agendas, MP3 players, phones, keys, etc. Also houses a central compartment with mesh pocket and built to keep snacks or drinks. RETAIL PRICE: QR369
BACK TO SCHOOL
DEALS
FOR AN AMAZING SCHOOL SUPPLY HAUL HEAD TO VIRGIN MEGASTORE AT MALL OF QATAR.
BOC`N`ROLL REUSABLE SANDWICH WRAPPER Say goodbye to throw-away wrappers and enjoy your sandwiches on-the-go thanks to this environmentally friendly sandwich wrap. It has an easy fastener that makes it adaptable to different food shapes and sizes (sandwich, fruit...). It is convenient, compact, machine washable and also serves as an individual placemat. So reuse and re-enjoy! RETAIL PRICE: QR49
KNOCK KNOCK THIS WEEK ON & OFF THE WALL CHALKBOARD Who says a chalkboard’s place is only in the classroom? On & Off The Wall chalkboards are repositionable, reusable, and easily removable-which means your message can go (almost) anywhere. RETAIL PRICE: QR29
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KACO CYBER PEN 16GB MEMORY The slim metallic barrel of this pen maintains comfortable writing thanks to the premium roller refill performance, which is available in various matt colours, ends in a cap that accommodates a USB flash drive (16GB) in its clip. RETAIL PRICE: QR79
BENTOLOGY LUNCH TOTE WITH SIDE POCKET Eliminate the hassle of carrying a separate lunch tote with this Insulated Lunch Box Sleeve. Compact and stylish, it’s perfect for ensuring that all your on-the-go meals remain fresh and tasty. The sides zip up, so you can easily and safely slide your meal into your backpack, briefcase or bag, allowing you to enjoy a cool, fresh meal without the added baggage. RETAIL PRICE: QR79
SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES
GET READY, GET SET, Let’s Popcorn GRAB A BAG OF POPCORN, LEAN BACK, AND ENJOY THE SELECTION OF FILMS THIS MONTH.
JUSTICE LEAGUE DIRECTOR: Zack Snyder GENRE: Action, Adventure, Fantasy CAST: Ben Affleck, Jason Momoa, Amy Adams SYNOPSIS: Fuelled by his restored faith in humanity, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to recruit a team to stand against this newly awakened enemy. Despite the formation of an unprecedented league of heroes-Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and the Flash- it may just be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions. QH FUN FACT: It took one whole decade for this film to come to completion due to another Justice League film being shelved in 2007.
TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY 3D DIRECTOR: Andrés Muschietti GENRE: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Action CAST: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong, Robert Patrick SYNOPSIS: James Cameron’s epic action/sci-fi masterpiece has been converted to 3D by Cameron himself. Hitting screens initially in 1991, the 3D version will take the seminal blockbuster to the next level of effects and into the 21st century for the next generation of fans. QH FUN FACT: Terminator 2 won four Academy Awards and was the highest-grossing film of 1991.
BE AFRAID DIRECTOR: Drew Gabreski GENRE: Science Fiction, Thriller CAST: Brian Krause, Jaimi Paige, Louis Herthum SYNOPSIS: Not long after John Chambers and his family arrive at their new home in a small country town of Pennsylvania, John begins to experience sleep paralysis. Lying there paralyzed, trapped within his own nightmare, other-worldly beings visit John. They are entities which exist in the darkest shadows of the night and can only be seen out of the corner of one’s eye. These encounters begin to haunt John, transforming to complete terror as he discovers the entities’ sole purpose... the abduction of his seven year old son. QH FUN FACT: The film is a textbook 80’s horror movie, with main lead, Brian Krause popularly known for acting in thriller/horror films.
KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE DIRECTOR: Matthew Vaughn GENRE: Comedy Action, Spy CAST: Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Mark Strong SYNOPSIS: With their headquarters destroyed and the world held hostage, members of Kingsman find new allies when they discover a spy organization in the United States known as Statesman. In an adventure that tests their strength and wits, the elite secret agents from both sides of the pond band together to battle a ruthless enemy and save the day. QH FUN FACT: This film is loosely based on comic book series published by Marvel.
THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE DIRECTOR: Charlie Bean, Bob Logan, Paul Fisher GENRE: Animated Action, Adventure CAST: Olivia Munn, Justin Theroux, Jackie Chan SYNOPSIS: Six young ninjas Lloyd, Jay, Kai, Cole, Zane and Nya are tasked with defending their island home, called Ninjago. By night, they’re gifted warriors, using their skills and awesome fleet of vehicles to fight villains and monsters. By day, they’re ordinary teens struggling against their greatest enemy: high school. QH FUN FACT: This is the 2nd time Dave Franco has been in a Lego film. He had a cameo in The Lego Movie (2014).
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FILM IN FOCUS
’S COMING....
BE AFRAID, BE VERY AFRAID! TERRIFYING READERS FOR DECADES, NEW LINE CINEMA’S MUCH-ANTICIPATED HORROR THRILLER “IT” IS ALL SET ONCE AGAIN TO MAKE US NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE DARK SIDE OF CLOWNS. IF YOU WEREN’T SCARED OF CLOWNS BEFORE, BY THE END OF THE MOVIE, YOU WILL BE! There is truly nothing like a scary movie to get your pulse racing, the adrenalin flowing around your body and a buzz from the feeling of terror – from the safety of your cinema seat. 2017’s “IT” movie adaptation is just the ticket for a nailbitingly-gruesome movie date; the ultimate escape from your everyday anxieties when you settle down and get ready to be very, very afraid! Children have been disappearing from the town Derry in Maine, USA, but who or what is responsible? In this horror film, based on the hugely popular Stephen King novel, it is Pennywise, the clown. Clowns can be very scary and sinister, as anyone who suffers from Coulrophobia which is a fear of clowns will tell you, so we hope you don’t develop this phobia after watching the film (eeekk). However on the flip side, the film is a lot deeper than just a horror film which brings out our deepest fears – it’s about love and friendship as well. Directed by Andy Muschietti, “IT” stars Bill Skarsgård (“Allegiant,” TV’s “Hemlock Grove”) as the story’s central villain, Pennywise. An ensemble of young actors also star in the film, including Jaeden Lieberher (“Midnight Special”), Jeremy Ray Taylor (“Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip”), Sophia Lillis (“37”), Finn Wolfhard (TV’s “Stranger Things”), Wyatt Oleff (“Guardians of the Galaxy”), Chosen Jacobs (upcoming “Cops and Robbers”), Jack Dylan Grazer (“Tales of Halloween”), Nicholas Hamilton (“Captain Fantastic”) and Jackson Robert Scott, making his film debut. We’ve watched the trailer and cannot wait to see the film. And take it from us, you will need to order an extra large bucket of popcorn so you can hide behind when Pennywise, the clown, rears up from his hiding places. Director: Andrés Muschietti | Genre: Thriller, Horror | Cast: Jaeden Lieberher, Finn Wolfhard, Bill Skarsgård Release date: In cinemas across Qatar on September 7th QH Fun Fact: Seems like the world is totally up for a new “IT” movie too. The trailer broke records, getting almost 200 million views in one day.
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CELEBRITY FEATURE
Reese Witherspoon is Back
THIS IS IS AA VERY VERY BIG BIG YEAR YEAR IN IN THE THE LIFE LIFE OF OF REESE REESE WITHERSPOON, WITHERSPOON, HER HER BIG BIG LITTLE LITTLE LIES LIES TV TV MINI-SERIES MINI-SERIES THIS TURNED OUT OUT TO TO BE BE AA MASSIVE MASSIVE POPULAR POPULAR AND AND CRITICAL CRITICAL SUCCESS, SUCCESS, WHICH WHICH EARNED EARNED HER HER AND AND SERIES SERIES TURNED CO-STAR NICOLE NICOLE KIDMAN KIDMAN NOMINATIONS NOMINATIONS FOR FOR BEST BEST ACTRESS. ACTRESS. NOW, NOW, THE THE 41-YEAR-OLD 41-YEAR-OLD ACTRESS ACTRESS IS IS CO-STAR RETURNING TO TO HER HER EARLIER EARLIER BIG BIG SCREEN SCREEN COMIC COMIC ROOTS ROOTS IN IN HOME HOME AGAIN, AGAIN, AA SPARKLING SPARKLING ROMANTIC ROMANTIC RETURNING COMEDY. COMEDY.
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CELEBRITY FEATURE
Q: What is the difference between where you are today and where you were nearly a decade ago and admitted going through a crisis? Witherspoon: A while back I felt that I had lost my inspiration and my direction and today my work fits with my ambitions about what I want to accomplish and the ideas I have for new projects. My husband Jim (Toth) has had a lot to do with that. He’s helped encourage me to be bolder in my outlook and now with my production company (Pacific Standard) I’m able to create opportunities not just for myself, but for other women to write and direct. Q: Now that you’ve entered your 40s, would you say that you have attained a certain calm and confidence about how you want to move forward? Witherspoon: Yes. As you grow older so many things become clearer. Now I focus on the positives, on what I know how to do, and on enjoying my family life and being good mother instead of wasting time on things that are not important and distract you from what you really want to do. Q: You’re still very youthful-looking. Does aging bother you? Witherspoon: No. I don’t mind it at all. It’s amazing. When I first saw Big Little Lies in the rehearsal room, I immediately noticed the wrinkles on my face and I said, “I like them, I won them one by one” (laughs). I worked hard to have these wrinkles! Q: You seem to still have plenty ambition when it comes to your work these days? Witherspoon: I do! I’ve seen how much you can do when you work hard and don’t wait for the phone to ring. I went through that and then I decided to stop being complacent and start creating my own projects and working with people whom I admire and who have a vision similar to my own. Q: Big Little Lies must give you a tremendous sense of satisfaction in being able to put together such an impressive cast of women that is not often seen on TV or film? Witherspoon: I’m very proud of being able to bring together so many extraordinarily gifted women like Nicole, Shailene, Laura, and Zoe to be part of this series. I was getting tired of seeing so many talented women relegated to secondary roles. And getting to spend time with them has made me appreciate even more how frustrating it is for women in our business to be able to find good roles. Q: You were obviously frustrated with the lack of opportunities out there? Witherspoon: I wasn’t just frustrated for myself, but for a lot of other women I know who share with me their horror stories about not being able to find good roles. What made me really angry was the lack of interest that our industry had in telling stories from a women’s perspective and, even worse, seeing fantastic actresses forced to play and only wives’ type character. It’s important to talk about women with greater complexity.
Q: Did you share a lot of similar perspectives with your character Madeline? Witherspoon: There are a lot of similarities. Madeline was for me a kind of cross-section of what so many women are facing in their forties. She’s divorced and remarried. She’s a mother seeing her eldest child start asserting her independence and dealing with issues all mothers face as their relationship with their partner changes or breaks down after many years or when their children start asserting themselves more when they get to be teenagers. It’s not the story of my life, but it’s not that far off from what I’ve been through and some of the experiences I’ve had and the questions I’ve had to deal with. 13
WHERE TO GO
SUNDAY SHAKEN OR STIRRED SUNDAY Signature drinks at happy hour prices.
FIND IT: Library & Cigar Lounge located at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, The Corniche, from 7pm until 2am. CALL: 4494 8600 1001 ARABIAN NIGHT Unwind in chic and elegant surroundings for happy hour.
THURSDAY
NIGHT
CRAWLS STAY IN THE LOOP WITH WHERE TO GO WHEN THE SUN HAS SET.
FIND IT: Pearl Lounge located at Doha Marriott Hotel, Ras Abu Aboud Street. Happy hour from 5pm until 8pm, last order 1.45am.
CALL: 3359 8514 SKINNY & SHIMS Shake up your Mondays and steal the scene with three complimentary drinks and accompanying bites all prepared to perfection.
FIND IT: WAHM located at W Doha & Residences, West Bay, from 9pm until 2am. CALL: 4453 5135
TUESDAY LADIES AND THE CITY Ladies will enjoy three tokens to exchange for selected beverages.
FIND IT: The Den located at Shangri-La Hotel, Doha, Level 1, West Bay, from 5pm until 1am. CALL: 4429 5295 JAZZ FOR TWO (J42) Enjoy a night dedicated to the two of you! Jazz, cheese, grapes and the magnificent Doha skyline to let you escape the city buzz.
FIND IT: Strata located at Intercontinental Doha The City, West Bay, from 6pm onwards. CALL: 7021 8765 GENTLEMEN’S NIGHT Happy hour is extended throughout the evening only for the gents, with more selection of manly cocktails and discounted
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CALL: 4484 4919 DIVA’S NIGHT Unwind in chic and elegant surroundings for happy hour from 5pm to 8pm.
CALL: 4429 8888
MONDAY
FIND IT: Mix Bar, Lounge & Terrace located at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, Salwa Road, from 9pm until 12am.
FIND IT: Paloma located at Intercontinental Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay, from 5pm until 2am.
FIND IT: Pearl Lounge located at Doha Marriott Hotel, Ras Abu Aboud Street, from 5pm until 2am.
CALL: 4429 8888
LADIES NIGHT Monday is the new Thursday! Offering you and your girlfriends three free drinks.
THURSDAY PARTY NIGHT After a long week unwind with happy hour from 5pm to 8pm and hit that dance floor to the tunes of the best live band in town.
FRIDAY QH RECOMMENDS Ladies in NoirLand Welcome to NoirLand ladies! Get ready to hit the dance floor and enjoy the latest RnB from the talented DJ Brayan while sipping on three complimentary drinks from 8pm - 12am.
FIND IT: Noir Lounge & Club located at M Doha Hotel, West Bay, from 5pm until 2am. CALL: 5596 1414 price on selected cigars as well.
FIND IT: Pearl Lounge located at Doha Marriott Hotel, Ras Abu Aboud Street. Happy hour from 5pm until 8pm, last order 1.45am. CALL: 4429 8888
WEDNESDAY ELLEGANCE AT STRATA Ladies, start your night with two complimentary drinks on the house and complimentary entrance and get the chance to win amazing goodie bags!
FIND IT: Strata located at Intercontinental Doha The City, West Bay, from 8pm until 2am. CALL: 7021 8765 LADIES & BUBBLES Ladies, come along and enjoy a neverending flow of Brut and Rosé all night long.
YALLA! DANCE TO THE BEAT! The latest sounds of oriental, Arabic beats alongside pop fusion to get you going on the dance floor!
FIND IT: Strata located at Intercontinental Doha The City, West Bay, from 8pm until 2am. CALL: 7021 8765 FRIDAYS ON THE RISE With major line-ups of international DJ’s, get ready to take your Fridays to another level!
FIND IT: WAHM located at W Doha & Residences, West Bay, from 9pm until 2am. CALL: 4453 5323
SATURDAY INDUSTRY Hoteliers and Cabin Crew team members get 50% off until 11pm on selected beverages and food and 25% off after 11pm. What a perfect way to celebrate the end, or beginning, of your work week.
FIND IT: Strata located at Intercontinental Doha The City, West Bay, from 8pm until 2am. CALL: 7021 8765 S3 - SATURDAY, SIP & SUSHI Turn your Saturday evenings into something delightful with a variety of sushi, sashimi and rolls together with selections of Japanese speciality drinks at very special rates starting from QR30.
FIND IT: Shanghai Club located at ShangriLa Hotel, West Bay, from 5.30pm until 1am.
FIND IT: Nobu’s Black Pearl, White Pearl and Roof Top Lounges located at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, The Corniche, from 6pm onwards.
CALL: 4429 5295
CALL: 4494 8600
get cul tured
FROM DOHA’S MUST-VISIT EXHIBITIONS TO A SIT DOWN WITH FAMOUS ARTIST AHMED AL MAADHEED– WE’RE GIVING YOU THE LOWDOWN FOR A MONTH FILLED WITH ART. 15
QH HAS A SIT DOWN WITH THE NOW LEGENDARY AHMED AL MAADHEED - THE ARTIST WHO PAINTED THE ICONIC, POWERFUL AND VIRAL IMAGE OF HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI, AND REVEALS TO QH THE BACKGROUND TO THIS HISTORIC ACHIEVEMENT.
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Photography by Jessie Palanca
CULTURE FEATURE
The Man Who Painted History
CULTURE FEATURE QH: How did you come up with idea? Ahmed: At the beginning of the now well-known siege, I wanted to express my feelings through means of an image, so I began painting a portrait on canvas. The image was published digitally meaning people began to use it in profile pictures and then suddenly it was everywhere!
QH: You mentioned expressing ‘feelings’, what were these? Ahmed: I think my feelings were the same for everyone. We stand with The Emir – we live a good life in Qatar and we have a good government who takes care of us. So for me there is no greater feeling than an allegiance to one’s country and leader.
QH: Can you tell us a bit about yourself – how did you become an artist? Ahmed: Since I was a kid, I have loved all kinds of art
including design, media and photography. I started my media company, Notion Media, in 2009 and produced comic books and animations as well as movies – including short films for museums and National Sports Day and a TV series. I am a producer as well as an artist and as you can see I like to put my hand to lots of creative things and have lots of ideas!
QH: Did you study art as part of your education? Ahmed: No! Actually I didn’t study art in that way but I believe I
have a gift from our creator which I have developed through my personal learning and research. I have a dream and therefore I work hard to achieve it.
QH: What is your favourite art subject? Ahmed: I love all art especially when it is culture and even more so when it is about Qatar. Fine art, pop art, modern art and graffiti also are firm favourites of mine.
QH: Which medium do you prefer to use? Ahmed: I use many different materials and different sizes but art is not about what you use – it’s about the end results and what you deliver.
QH: From where do you get your inspiration? Ahmed: I have a concept, a story – and convert it into a picture. So then the picture becomes a story. It is always about a mood, a feeling and what is around you. I always draw from my passion and feelings – I cannot work from an order!
QH: Do you ever have feelings of frustration? Ahmed: There is no success without failure. Fail means
success. From a bad experience you have to go forward – you have to carry on and never quit. If something is not right in the middle of producing an art work I change everything from scratch and re-do it.
QH: Finally, can you tell us your thoughts of the art scene in Qatar? Ahmed: Art is very popular in Qatar and it is very tasteful. Qatar
supports art in so many different places and you can find it everywhere. Art is so important because it translates the culture of Qatar.
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CULTURE FEATURE
OF HOPE Copyright © Jessica Fulford-Dobson
SKATE GIRLS OF KABUL IS LEAVING A POSITIVE MARK IN TOWN, QH DECIDED TO PAY A VISIT TO KATARA CULTURAL VILLAGE FOR A SIT DOWN WITH THE ARTIST BEHIND IT ALL.
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CULTURE FEATURE Copyright © Jessica Fulford-Dobson
W
ith just a few weeks of having opened at Katara Cultural Village, Skate Girls of Kabul has already made an impact amongst art aficionados, expats, locals and even tourists. And it comes as no surprise that such a compelling exhibition by renowned British photographer, Jessica Fulford-Dobson, showcases a series of spellbinding portraits of girls skateboarding as part of the Skateistan organization, which was officially founded in 2009. After a successful viewing in London’s Saatchi Gallery, Jessica decided to take this project further and give it a bigger voice to promote positivity and hope. “It was lovely to see how the older girls would help the younger girls and the message of helping each other, it was great. And that message is good in any country. The girls caught my attention because I love how they put their own spin on it with their dresses,” adds the photographer. Now in Doha, the exhibition not only displays the artist’s wonderful imagery, but also, a skating area for anyone who wishes to give it a go. The exhibition not only promotes positivity, but also, endurance from the photographer herself. She recalls having had to go to Kabul on two separate occasions to capture and finish what she
FIND IT
started. But once there, Jessica was able to capture compelling stories amongst the girls showcasing education, kindness and sisterhood. “There was a number of stories with the girls: music, educations, etc. But the story that really caught my attention was the skate girls.” But what message is the British photographer leaving us with? “There are many messages behind this, one of them being to stay active. At the end of the day I just wanted to show a lovely story that I read about and to share it with the world that there is still hope and happiness going around. And for people to also get a sense of the skate girls community and what they stand for,” adds Jessica. Now Skateistan has expanded and going beyond Afghanistan’s borders, and is also now in South Africa and Cambodia. Jessica is hoping to make a difference for the community and to serve as a voice to the girls so they are not forgotten. “The girls made such a big impression on me, that I had to put the story out there so their work and charity continues,” adds the photographer. And as for anyone who decides to visit the Skate Girls of Kabul exhibition, we promise it will be a life changing experience that will leave you with a new sense of hope.
QM Gallery, Building 10, Katara Cultural Village. Open daily, except Sundays from 10am until 8pm and Fridays from 3pm until 9pm. Exhibition ongoing until 21st October.
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CULTURE CORNER
The
Art Hub
AS A NEW SEASON APPROACHES, SO DOES DOHA’S CULTURAL SCENE. FIND OUT WHAT EXHIBITIONS ARE WORTH YOUR VISIT. EXHIBITION ONGOING UNTIL 27TH JANUARY 2018
EXHIBITION ONGOING UNTIL 12TH MAY 2018
Exhibition: Imperial Threads: Motifs and Artisan from Turkey, Iran and India
Exhibition: Powder and Damask: Islamic Arms and Armour from the Collection of Fadel Al-Mansoori
Deets: A connection between three dynasties that showcase the starting modern period in Islamic art through carpets, manuscripts, ceramics, patrons and other objects.
Deets: Showcasing Islamic arms and armour from Fadel AlMansoori’s private collection, the precious objects are from the 17th century to the 19th. Exhibiting edged weapons, firearms and more, these objects were made in Turkey, Iran and India.
Find it:
Museum of Islamic Art
Extra details: Open daily from 10.30am to 5.30, except Tuesdays; Thursdays 12pm to 8pm; Fridays 2pm to 8pm and Saturdays 12pm to 8pm. Admission free. Call: 4422 4444
Find it: Museum of Islamic Art, 4th floor Extra details: Open daily from 10.30am to 5.30, except Tuesdays; Thursdays 12pm to 8pm; Fridays 2pm to 8pm and Saturdays 12pm to 8pm. Admission free. Call: 4422 4444
EXHIBITION ONGOING UNTIL 14TH SEPTEMBER
Exhibition: Project Space 9: Basim Madgy Deets: The Egyptian artist showcases his latest work tracing the cyclical process of desire and disappointment in humanity’s attempts at reshaping society’s system and structures through film and the transition between analogue and digital. The artist who is known for his painting, drawing, text, photography and film, addresses the exhibition through multiple lenses of reconciliation of tradition and ritual with today’s day and age. Find it: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. Get to the museum for free from the Museum of Islamic Art on Wednesdays to Sundays from 11am to 5pm and Fridays from 3pm until 8pm. Extra details: Open daily from Sunday 11am to 6pm, except Mondays, Fridays 3pm to 8pm. Admission Free. Call: 4402 8855
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CULTURE CORNER
Food Trucks
at MIA and MIA Park This Fall THEY’RE YUMMY AND THEY’RE HERE! SIX LOCAL SMES CHOSEN TO LAUNCH FOOD TRUCKS FOR AN EPIC SEASON.
Six local businesses representing Qatar’s best food truck scene have been selected to join the growing supply chain of Qatar Museums.
WHO ARE THEY? Doha Bus Café: The bus café will utilise the popular Doha hop-on-off bus as its venue, offering Qatari fusion food and beverages. The fun bus will be located at MIA Park. We say yes to this one! Coffee-Bike: Offering rich tasting Organic coffee, fresh juices, healthy smoothies; plus, signature sandwiches and desserts. We are ready to try some healthy bites, too. Dareen Sweets: Offering an array of sweet and salty biscuits, cakes and a selection of hot and cold drinks. Ice Rolls: From the streets of Thailand, Ice Rolls will be the first Qatari concept offering customers rolled ice creams in cups, promising a sweet palate parade. (We can’t wait to queue on this one too!) Burger and Burmait: Offering a selection of authentic American food with a local twist, their fresh and handmade American style burgers will be created using locally sourced ingredients. Yum, we want! Poori & Karak: Offering a wide range of Indian chapatti, pori and parati sandwiches, they will all satisfy local traditional flavours.
FIND IT
MIA is located on the Corniche, which runs around the bay. Free bus between MIA and Mathaf from Wednesday to Sunday, 11am until 5pm. Buses leave on the hour.
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CULTURE CORNER
MUSEUMS OF THE CITY VOTED IN 2010 AS THE CULTURAL CAPITAL OF THE MIDDLE EAST, THERE ARE LOTS OF FASCINATING THINGS TO SEE AT DOHA’S NUMEROUS MUSEUMS. WE TAKE YOU ON A TOUR.
Education City 4402 8855
Al Corniche St 4422 4444
Museum of Islamic Art
If you’re searching for cultural models from the past, even flawed ones, that effectively brought a message of social change, then this museum - with its breathtaking sights, is the one. Matched by equally breathtaking artifacts and exhibitions, what you discover inside is art from across three continents and over 1,400 years.
Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art If you are a lover of modern art, you will be able to find your way to Education City, the home of this cultural gem that offers an Arab perspective on art. The museum has a sizable collection of permanent exhibits which occupy seven galleries in the upper floor as well as a dedicated space for various temporary artists. It is a very interesting place to visit – and don’t forget there is a complementary shuttle bus to get you there!
Al Samariyah Ash-Shahaniya 4486 1444
Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
This privately owned museum which is opened to the public, houses astonishing personal collections of the Sheikh. Spread over three huge buildings, the most prominent collection of the museum is for cars. There are tons of rare cars in the museum starting from Model T Ford, up to presidential Mercedes Benz, and many others. Other interesting exhibits are the collections carpets, guns, swords and various artifacts; whatever your interest, you will be sure to find a thing or two to muse over.
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CULTURE CORNER Downtown Msheireb 4485 7777
Msheireb Museums To really delve into an unfiltered retrospect of the history of Doha’s inner city, this is the museum to go to. The museum is beautifully laid out over four heritage houses in which the local history and culture of Downtown Doha is delivered in a very interactive and dynamic way of connecting the past with the present. Don’t be surprised if you are emotionally moved by when you hear unique accounts of the story of slavery and human trafficking, as told in a factual yet sensitive way.
Mohammed Bin Thani Street 4422 4222
Fire Station Artist in Residence Want to know who the next big aspiring artists in Doha are? The Fire Station is literally a creative incubator for emerging talent! Sitting in the heart of Doha’s flourishing art community. The Fire Station provides the perfect springboard for creativity, helping people take their passion to the next level. Call to find out who the artist in residence is – or take a chance and surprise yourself with a new appreciation of modern art.
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24 Copyright © Jessica Fulford-Dobson
style me up THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR THE SEASON’S HOTTEST LOOKS.
FASHION BULLETIN
Out with the Old,
In with the New ALL THE LOOKS AND TRENDS YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW.
RED ALERT!
COLOUR AFICIONADO
KARL LAGERFELD AW’17
Victoria Beckhm AW‘17
7 ga AW’1 Balencia living.com) n shio (highfa
KENZO AW’17
Valentino AW’17
Valentino AW‘17 (oliviapalermo.com)
Blossom Slide in Red Volcano, Tory Burch
Loretta Platform Sandal, Toru Burch
Tory Burch
KENZO AW’17 photo by MohamedKhalil-0071
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LACOSTE AW’17
Block-T Satchel,
LACOSTE AW’17
SPORT IT, BABY
STRIKE A POSE
WITH A MASCULINE BUT YET FEMININE APPROACH, KARL LAGERFELD IS STEPPING INTO AW 2017 WITH A YOUTHFUL VIBE.
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Jourdan Dunn for Swarovski
the eid guide 101 QH GIVES YOU THE ULTIMATE GUIDE ON HOW TO CHANNEL THE GLITZ AND GLAM FOR THESE SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS.
THE EID GUIDE
AN OPULENT TASTE STATEMENT PIECES FOR A GLAMOROUS CELEBRATION.
Edie Slide, Sidney Backless Loafer in Spark Gold,
Michael Kors
Beaded Tassel Earring in Banyan Green and Tory Gold, Tory Burch
Rylie Jacket in New Ivory Gabriella Floral,
Tory Burch
Tory Burch
Shoe,
Paule KA
Elisa Wedge Espadrille in Golden Fry,
Bag,
Paule KA
Tory Burch
Dress,
Paule KA
Sadie Brocade Shoulder Bag, Tory Burch
Bag,
Karl Lagerfeld
Bag,
Michael Kors Eid Al-Adha Capsule Collection
Jacket,
Karl Lagerfeld
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THE EID GUIDE
Look Bang In Metal Too IF PERHAPS YOU’RE INTO THE METALS, FIND A SELECTION OF FAVOURITES TO STOCK UP, AND DAZZLE-AWAY! Himalia Dual Intensity Eyeshadow,
Milos Nail Polish,
NARS
NARS
Platform Tie Sandal,
Alexandre Birman
Purple Rain Nail Polish, NARS
Gold Court Slingback with Bow, Carolina Herrera
Desdemona Dual Intensity Eyeshadow, NARS
Ring,
Silver Bag, Dior
Karl Lagerfeld
Fuchia Crystal Buckled Mules, Manolo Blahnik
Fuschia Satin Mule Heel, No21
Blue Metallic Sneakers, Converse
Yellow Sliders, Darmaki Dana
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THE EID GUIDE
SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND WITH
Swarovski THEY SPARKLE. THEY GLEAM. THEY RADIATE OPULENCE. THE SEASON’S BEST PIECES FOR THE ACCESSORIES DEPARTMENT YOU WON’T LIVE WITHOUT.
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CREATURES OF THE MOON SOPHIA KAH’S WHIMSICAL DESIGNS CHANNEL INNER BEAUTY, SOPHISTICATION, AND MYSTERY WITH A TOUCH OF A COSMIC SIDE FOR THAT POWFACTOR LOOK.
Want it? Get it at: www.sophiakah.com
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Byblos AW’17
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vanity room
SEPTEMBER IS HERE AND SO ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN THE BEAUTY DEPARTMENT. CHECK OUT WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT TO KEEP IN YOUR BEAUTY ARSENAL; PLUS THE LOOK TO GO CHIC FOR THIS EID.
BEAUTY GUIDE ta Oscar de la Ren
W 2017 Lacoste A
AW 2017
KEEP IT CLEAN
KENZO A Moham W 2017photo ed Khali by l
COLOUR BLOCK
‘Tis the season to show those freckles and an au naturelle look. Keep it clean in the foundation department and opt for BB Creams for that effortlessly finish.
7 W 201 Gucci A
Valentin o by Get ty Images
Make way for bright colours and go bold with your not-sotypical makeup look. Are you in for a pop of je ne sais quoi?
Beauty Guide
NEW SEASON, NEW PRODUCTS
The beauty report you don’t want to miss for this autumn.
Giambattista Valli AW 2017
POUT THAT RED
Take your lips to a whole different level, and give them that powfactor look with a bit of daring rouge.
GREEN MEANS GO!
STAY FOREVER
Stay in balance with this hand cream that will restore what’s damaged.
ENERGIZED BEAUTY
Detox and keep your skincare routine with the essentials. We love and approve!
Take your eye makeup look to new heights and make it a long-lasting one with this bad boy. Dab a bit on your lid before applying your eyeshadow and say hello to party season.
EYE LOVER
Keep it fresh and keep it clean in the eye mask department. Make sure to hydrate once a week for a youthful touch.
STOP THAT TRAFFIC
This season is all about daring colours, and never playing it too safe. Forgo neutral colours for your nails and opt for bright hues, ready to stop traffic!
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BEAUTY LUST
p u r e k c Pu
THE FIRST HYDRATING AND PLUMPING MATTE BY GUELAIN IS INTENSE AS A LIPSTICK AND COMFORTABLE AS A BALM. FORGO LIP ENHANCERS BECAUSE THIS SEASON IS ALL ABOUT POWERFUL, DEEP PIGMENTED AND KEEPING A HYDRATED POUT.
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EDITOR’S HACKS
7
Beauty Products You Need for This Eid
BEAUTY EDITOR SOFIA GRANIELLO, SHARES HER GAME-CHANGING PRODUCTS FOR A LONG LASTING LOOK.
Energie de vie, Lancome
High Coverage Concealar Natural Finish, Sephora
celebrityglamcam.com
Lip Strobe in Shameless, Huda Beauty
Smoothing and Brighting Concealer, Sephora
10 Hour Perfection Wear Foundation, Sephora
Couture Hologram Powder, YSL
La Laque Couture N¯54, YSL
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Photo by Sally @flyingfoodninja
the food district
READ ON TO FIND OUT THIS MONTH’S VENUE REVIEW OF THE JUICIEST STEAKHOUSE IN DOHA, WHILST SALLY @ FLYINGFOODNINJA TAKES A BITE OUT OF ZENGO’S LUNCH MENU; PLUS THE LATEST FOOD NEWS ROUNDUP. 45
THE FOOD CORNER
SUSHI AND STEAK Treat yourself to an experience like never before with a succulent combination of sushi and steak. Be sure to get the best of both worlds.
FIND IT: Blue restaurant is located at Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha, Aspire Zone. Available from Saturday to Monday from 12.30pm until 12 midnight, priced at QR215. CALL: 4445 5535 SELECT YOUR FAVOURITE FOODS FROM THE STREETS OF INDIA, SOUTH EAST ASIA, MEXICO AND MUCH MORE. FIND IT: Doha Marriott Hotel, Ras Abu Aboud Street. Every Thursday from 6pm until 11.30pm, priced at QR240 (without bubbly drinks), and QR335 (with bubbly drinks).
CALL: 4429 8888 MAKING BRUNCH GREAT AGAIN Get those vibes chilling and get transported to the West Coast with a casual and hip approach at Santa Monica Breakfast Club.
FIND IT: Santa Monica Breakfast Club is located at Grand Hyatt Doha, West Bay Lagoon. Every Friday from 12.30pm until 3.30pm, priced at QR260 (including soft beverages), and QR360 (including bubbly drinks). CALL: 4448 1240 SWEETNESS OVERLOAD Enjoy to an all-day café ambience with delicious chocolates and desserts and a wide range of sweet creations.
DOHA’S FAVOURITE
MEALS SEPTEMBER IS HERE AND SO ARE NEW AND EXCITING FOODIE PROMOTIONS. CHECK OUT OUR TOP PICKS YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW.
LAZY LUNCH Make the most out of your weekend and enjoy to a lunch special of a three- course set menu and indulge with family and friends.
FIND IT: The Cellar is located at Oryx Rotana Doha Hotel, Al Nahda School Street, Airport Road. Every Friday and Saturday from 12.30pm until 7pm, priced at QR95, and top your package with a three-hour beverage deal for QR90. CALL: 4402 3333
NOODLES AND RIBS Offering a mouth-watering selection of ribs, steaks, and meat cuts along with delicious noodles from different parts of Asia, including noodle stations and other signature dishes. FIND IT: Elements is located at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, The Corniche. Every Saturday from 12.30pm until 4.30pm, priced at QR200 (including water), and QR310 (including bubbly drinks). CALL: 4494 8600
THE BURGER HUNT Try the venue’s most creative, delicious, and yet big burger menu Doha has seen.
FIND IT: Life with Cacao is located at Mall of Qatar, ground floor. Open daily from 9am until 12am.
FIND IT: Hunters Room & Grill is located at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, Salwa Road, Fereej Bin Mahmoud. Available from Monday to Sunday from 5pm until 8pm, priced at QR75 with a side.
CALL: 5000 1335
CALL: 3359 8514
BUSINESS LUNCH Enjoy to a contemporary international and Arabic cuisine.
FIND IT: Al Thouraya Restaurant is located at Ezdan Hotel, West Bay, Al Khoraiss St. Available from Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm until 3.30pm, priced at QR79. CALL: 4496 9600 SEA, CATCH, EAT! Experience an impressive array of the freshest catch the city has to offer and have your seafood cooked in different styles from all over the world.
INDO-THAI WEEK-END BUFFET Indulge in an array of Asian favourites including tempura, spring rolls, Pad Thai and other culinary delights.
FIND IT: White Oryx Thai Restaurant is located at The Pearl, Tower 30, Porto Arabia. Available Fridays from 1pm until 5pm and Saturdays from 12pm until 4pm, priced at QR149 (including soft drinks). CALL: 4466 1058
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FIND IT: The Square is located at InterContinental Doha The City, West Bay. Every Wednesday from 6pm until 11pm, priced at QR225 (without beverages). Promotion available from the 13th of September. CALL: 4015 8888
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The Roundtable : e t u n i M a n I Grilled nth with
mo QH dines this enpick Al v รถ M f o r to ic Chef V to grill s t e g d n a l te Aziziyah Ho re round of fi k ic u q a h it him w Q& As.
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This Is A Dummy Text. Please Do Not Read This. Top 10 Places To Visit. Tourism To Iran Is Steadily On The Rise As Sanctions Continue To Lift. Victor Ancuela, Chef de Cuisine has over two decades of experience in The Gulf and was invited to come and work in Doha where he has built a reputation of creating international gastronomic delights. His passion for cooking is matched only by the love he has for his customers – who he refers to as “my special guests”.
Steak and sushi – sounds delicious! How do they complement each other?
The sushi and steak concept is presented as a starter of thirty different pieces of sushi followed by sizzling steak as a main course. I believe that the meat that follows the fish course completes the meal.
When did you develop your passion for cooking?
Nearly thirty years ago I began working in Saudi Arabia and started to learn how to cook. I trained in international cuisine and I especially love the flavours of Asian cooking which I decided to concentrate on and hone in my skills.
What do you enjoy most about being the Chef at Blue Restaurant?
Well, as a chef I mostly enjoy having the capacity and capability to create new dishes for the menu. Having the flair and imagination for fresh concepts is what drives me each day and knowing that my guests are seeing more and more of my creations as a result is what becomes my overall motivation.
Blue Restaurant sushi is presented like a palette of colours. How important is it for a chef to have a flair for art?
For me it is very important for food to be presented well. The combination of colours and flavours is very important and I even personally select the plate that the cuisine will be served on and arrange it so that it looks attractive as well as tasting delicious.
How do you find the inspiration to create new dishes?
My guests – my special guests – are my inspiration. Seeing guests come back over and over again because of the various new dishes that I have introduced to the menu is a boost to my creativity and inspiration. I combine various ingredients so that there is always something different for them. They encourage me to keep on introducing new options and make a great new menu.
FIND IT
1st floor at Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah, Aspire Park, daily from 12.30pm to 12am. Call: 4445 5535.
ns endatio m m o c e R Chef’s
Where did you develop your talent that you have brought to Qatar?
I worked in restaurants in The Gulf. I especially love Asian cuisine and I have added some Arabic influences to the dishes that I have created – making them unique.
How does the restaurant’s location add to the dining experience?
A restaurant’s location has a big impact on the dining experience. It is the location that can make or break a diner’s interest and then once seated it follows on with the taste of the meal. Blue restaurant is situated in a very enjoyable location of the hotel as it has immaculate views of Aspire Park, making a big impact for diners to enjoy the outdoor terrace in the cooler months. As one of the most picturesque and greenest parts of Doha, the alfresco location for Blue compliments the overall dining experience.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Beef Sliders
Salmon Triangle Maki
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LET’S EAT
New York Steakhouse
AMERICAN STEAKHOUSE PRETENDER, OR THE REAL DEAL? QH FINDS OUT.
L
ocated at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, the all-traditional American Steakhouse is known to be a hotspot for fine dining and for premium steaks in the city. With a refined approach to its décor and elegant touches to its ambience, this charming and alluring venue seems to deliver for your buck. Sceptical as what to expect, we arrived in full force ready to tackle the grandeur of its venue. To start our experience, we were pleasantly surprised with a rich in flavour French onion soup and beef stock, which for our taste, was nice and hearty. The venue promises top-notch dishes with delicacies in the American Steakhouse department, but also, a true dining journey. Next off, we gave one of their delectable appetizers a go: crab cake accompanied with sweet corn and red cabbage. Not only was the size perfect with an impeccable presentation, but the mix in its flavours added a je ne sais quoi to our palate. And as the evening progressed and as Doha seemed to relax and let loose, so did its customers. But its French Onion Soup true gem, that in our opinion was the cherry on top, was its colourful and vibrant view to West Bay. But if perhaps romantic scenery isn’t your cup of tea, the venue holds spacious seating to tailor anyone’s preference. Still determined to tackle its menu, we were once again happily surprised with one of its popular dishes: Three Countries, One Platter, which offers a taste of three tenderloins from the U.S.A, France and Australia. As meaty as that sounds, its portions were perfect, tender and succulent exceptionally paired with roasted carrots and honeycomb, triple cooked fries, and asparagus. And as our evening almost came to end, dessert is definitely a must at this place. Served with a chocolate fondant, one bite was enough for a party parade of pure sweetness. Too bad we couldn’t lick the plate. And with a myriad of restaurants in the city, thankfully this venue knows the meaning of a true American Steakhouse.
FIND IT
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Level 2 at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, West Bay City Center, Omar Al Mukthar Street, daily from 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Call: 4419 5000.
Three Countries, One Platter
BITE SIZE
In Partnership With
And It’s Meraki Program
Take a out of Zengo
N
estled in Doha’s tallest building on the 61st floor of the Kempinski Residences & Suites is Zengo. From the moment you walk in, you are wowed by a panoramic view of Doha’s skyline. The bright open plan filled with modern decor, and fused with Japanese style origami cranes and trendy music, offers the perfect setting for a taste of Richard Sandoval’s twist on Pan-Asian cuisine. Each dish is uniquely plated and packed with fresh flavours that are blended together seamlessly. Impeccable service paired with fabulous food is what makes Zengo an impressive location for an exquisite dining experience, whether a business lunch or a fancy dinner. So the question is, what should you order? I spent an afternoon picking the best options for this month - here they are… Starters mean soup, salad, sushi, dumplings or a variety of dishes that would make your mouth water. Here is what I recommend to start:
FIND IT
61st floor at Kempinski Residence, West Bay, lunch is served Sun-Thu from 12 pm to 4pm. Call: 4405 3560.
THIS MONTH SALLY CLARK FROM @FLYINGFOODNINJA TAKES US THROUGH HER TOP EATS AT ZENGO. FIND OUT HER PICKS OF THE MENU!
Receipt Sushi Starter: Sushi Sel ection which includes the New Volcan o Roll, Shrimp Roll, Salmon Gunka n, Hamachi Sashimi and Tuna Sas himi. Various Starters: Bee f Short Ribs, Onion Tempura and Kor ean Barbecue Sauce. Main Course: Nasi Gor eng Fried Rice with Corn-Fed Chicke n Breast and Shredded Eggs as wel l as the BBQ Lamb Ribs with Cur ry Marinade, Sesame and Lime. Side Dish: Sautéed Mu
shrooms.
Mocktail: Furaitofur i with Red Bull, Fresh Strawberr y, Raspberry, Passionfruit and Cinnam on Syrup is a unique concoction of sweet, with a little bit of fizz and a slig ht tang that is uniquely presented in a mini bird cage. Dessert: Most definit ely order the cheesecake! This is han ds down one of the best cheesecakes in Doha and can be found on the busine ss lunch menu. The yuzu flavor adds a unique twist and tang to this desser t that will leave even non cheesecake fan s impressed.
Lunch is an s Business o’ g en Z : or salad, th mon e of a soup d soft Deal of the your choic an ith rt w l se ea es st d de dish, absolute n course, si ai m r, te ar a st 95. , all for QR beverages
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health hub
HEALTHY TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP YOU BODY AND MIND ACTIVE; PLUS BRITISH PSYCHOLOGIST, MARTYN STEWART, SHARES HIS INSIGHT ON TODAY’S MEANING OF MIDLIFE CRISIS.
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GET ACTIVE
MORNING ESCAPE AT JAULA SPA Escape from a hectic day with the spa’s amazing deal. Get a welcoming tea, 2 hours of use (spa’s facilities): sauna, steam, Jacuzzi and inhalation room, and a 30min treatment (choose an express facial, back neck and shoulder massage, or a nourishing hair and scalp treatment).
FIND IT: Jaula Spa is located at Grand Hyatt Doha, West Bay Lagoon. Available daily from 10am until 1pm for QR250. CALL: 4448 1064 A NEW ARGAN BODY TREATMENT AT BODYLINES FITNESS AND WELLNESS CLUB If stress is hitting you real hard, we’ve got the perfect spot to unwind and reboot at. Enjoy to a smooth and moisturizing journey for your skin and relax your body at the hands of their professionals.
FIND IT: Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club is located at Oryx Rotana Doha Hotel, Al Nahda School Street, Airport Road. CALL: 4402 3333 TAILORED TREATMENTS AT SKINSATION Unwind and let all your troubles out the door with delightful treatments at the hotel’s female massage rooms and experience comfort, luxury and care. Also, enjoy tailored treatments to suit your needs.
FIND IT: Skinsation is located on the 25th floor at The Curve Hotel, Diplomatic Street, West Bay. Opening hours from 11am until 8pm, starting from QR220. CALL: 4007 8888 GET IN SHAPE AT FITNESS CENTER GYM Maintain health with the center’s upbeat range of fitness classes. Are you in for a change?
FIND IT: Fitness Center GYM is located at Ezdan Hotel, West Bay. Open daily from 6am until 11pm. CALL: 4496 9620
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SPOTS TO UNWIND WHETHER YOU’RE IN FOR A RELAXING TIME AT ONE OF THE TOP SPAS IN THE CITY, OR WANTING TO STICK TO THE HEALTHY TRACK, QH IS GIVING YOU THE MUST-TRY PLACES FOR THIS MONTH. LADIES MEMBERSHIP AT SHANGRI-LA HEALTH CLUB Get unlimited pool and gym access and get fit for this month! So ladies, what are you waiting for? Subscribe for three months priced at QR3,000.
FIND IT: Shangri-La Health Club is located at Shangri-La Hotel, level 7, Conference Centre Street, West Bay. CALL: 4429 5000 FITNESS CLASSES AT FITNESS CENTER Sign up for a high-performance and energized fitness classes and make your workout much more fun! Fitness Center
SUMMER GOALS AT HEAVENLY SPA The prominent spa is now offering a new package of 10 personal training sessions tailored to your goals, two detox massages to soothe sore muscles, plus one 90min session of detoxifying body brushing. Get that summer bod going!
FIND IT: Heavenly Spa is located at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, Salwa Road, Fereej Bin Mahmoud. For members priced at QR2,450 and non-members for QR2,900. CALL: 4492 1682
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DETOXIFYING HAMMAM AT SIX SENSES SPA Indulge in an 80min full body hammam that uses aromatherapy products of subtle energies and rasayana body scrub. Remove dead skin and rejuvenate now.
FIND IT: Six Senses Spa is located at Sharq Village & Spa, Ras Abu Aboud Street. Open daily from 6am until 11pm, spa treatment priced at QR800. CALL: 4425 6999 offers a range of activities such as: Les Mills Fitness Class, Yoga, Pilates and Zumba.
FIND IT: Fitness Center is located at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, West Bay Lagoon. Fitness classes priced at QR65, advanced booking is required. Avail of their Fitness Class Package inclusive of five sessions for QR250, plus one complimentary session. CALL: 4484 8000 SPECIAL EID OFFERINGS AT SHERATON FITNESS Stay calm and relax this Eid and get a 120min massage for the price of a 60min. Pamper yourself with one of the venue’s top treatments such as: Swedish massage, combination, foot reflexology, deep tissue sports and anti-stress, neck and shoulder massage.
FIND IT: Sheraton Fitness is located at Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Al Corniche Street. Offer available during Eid, starting from 1st of September until the 5th September, priced at QR300 per person. CALL: 4485 4600 TOTAL BLISS AT SPA BY CLARINS With 23 treatments, male and female wellness areas, and fantastic products to unwind at the spa, book your treatment and obtain a 50% discount on the 2nd treatment.
FIND IT: Spa By Clarins is located at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, the PearlDoha, Costa Malaz Bay. Open daily from 9am until 10pm, offer valid until 31st September. CALL: 4035 5555
SENSATIONS
A Blissful Treatment
KAREN FROM @CLUMSYCHIC GAVE IT A GO AT BLISS SPA’S LATEST FACIAL TREATMENT; PLUS FIND OUT WHAT’S HER VERDICT ON HER JOURNEY OF PURE WELLNESS.
PAMPERING TREATMENT: IDDNA FACIAL TREATMENT The lowdown:
The treatment starts by cleansing the face followed by a light glycolic peel that gently removes damaged skin, reduces fine lines and improves the skin’s overall texture. The peel is applied, followed by a slight sting and tingling sensation, which indicates the peel is activating through the deep layers of the skin. Later, a preextraction mask is applied, which opens up the pores, and for the grand final the aesthetician extracts any blackheads and blemishes, preparing the skin to receive nourishment and healing from the infrared technology.
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SENSATIONS
My verdict:
IDDNA’s high-tech treatment facial is the answer to personalized skincare, tackling any skin concern, and promotes overall luminosity and elasticity of the skin.
You’ve got to know this about Bliss Spa:
What else is in this treatment?
The highlight of the treatment is the Hannibal Lecter like LED infrared mask that deeply nourishes the skin and penetrates collagen that helps with the skin’s elasticity. The mask has two LED lights that are personalized to the skin’s condition and needs. The blue light is for oily congested skin and the red light is suitable for dry and hypersensitive skin. The high-tech mask is placed on the face for 20 minutes. No buzzing sound, no tingling sensation, just deep relaxation. The skin is then prepped and polished off with moisturizer and eye mask.
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Bliss Spa is located at W Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay. Open daily from 9am to 11pm. Call: 4453 5555.
W Doha’s Bliss Spa is known for being an unconventional spa, taking a modern spin of providing clients a fun, ‘no-attitude’ atmosphere. The spa took the beauty game a step further, giving new meaning to customized facial treatments, so personalized that it goes beyond the person’s DNA to determine their biological and physical needs.
THE DIET EDIT
The Diet Edit:
Al Hubara’s Healthy Salad CHEF SOHEL ABDEL HAQUE GIVES US THE 101 ON HOW TO PREP A HEALTHY BITE FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO STAY ON THE HEALTHY TRACK.
What is it?
Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken
Quantity:
For one person
Ingredients:
Spinach - 30 gms Chicken - 100 gms Avocado - 80 gms Greek Feta Chesse - 30 gms Cherry Tomato - 30 gms Red onion - 10 gms Sakura Mix - 10 gms Strawberries - 30 gms
Prepar ation: P
•
rehea t grill t heat o med ium-h • S igh low co o k t he slic chicke e of nb • C ook o reast n the prehe for 2 m ate in until it utes per s d grill id has a nicely e, or ma grilled • M rk ix in a straw bowl your berrie spinac s, red avo onion h, • S cado and erve t he sala the sli d topp ce and G d, grilled ch ed with reek fe ic ta che ken ese.
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Al Hubara is located at Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Al Corniche Street. Call: 4485 3000.
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ACTIVE MIND
Does the
‘Midlife Crisis’ Start at 35 Now? 58
ACTIVE MIND
NOBODY COULD HAVE PREDICTED THE SOCIAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT LIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY WOULD HAVE. THE IMMENSE PUBLIC PRESSURE AND SCRUTINY CAN BE MENTALLY CRIPPLING, SAYS PSYCHOLOGIST MARTYN STEWART AS HE GIVES QH AN INSIGHT ON TODAY’S MIDLIFE CRISIS.
W
e find ourselves constantly questioning ourselves and manipulating transitional truths to suit us. Milestone birthdays arrive and 30 is the new 20; 40 is the new 30 and so on. Normally, these are tongue in cheek comments made in jest, however, they also conveniently avoid public consideration that the mythical ‘midlife crisis’ might not just happen to ‘old’ people. Allegedly occurring around the age of 45 and lasting anywhere from 3-10 years, stereotypical images come to mind. The silver-haired gentleman, purchasing the sports car his 21-year old son craves or perhaps the ageing female frequenting the local nightclub; surrounded by judgemental looks from party-goers half her age. But what’s the reality? At some point in our adult lives, most of us ponder if we’re in the right career, whether we’ve achieved enough or if our important relationships have developed the way we believe they should. Critics debate whether a ‘mid-life’ crisis truly exists. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that incessant self-evaluation is something a large proportion of people can relate to. Even more so as we inhabit an information age where self-doubt is now intrusively accompanied by the excessive status updates from high school ‘friends’ who ignore you in public yet ‘like’ innocuous comments you make. You barely know the people whose personal successes you browse on your news feed, but they are still powerful enough to make you ask: ‘When did I stop chasing my dreams and become an irrelevant part of the system?’ The constant comparison of who, what, where, when and how you live your life, (even if it’s unintentional), can make even the most levelheaded individuals feel inadequate. If 40 is indeed the new 30, then perhaps at 35 some people are in the midst of a premature midlife crisis. The digital age moves so rapidly and the mid-life crisis may be no exception, it might just sneak up on you. So what is a mid-life crisis? The period is characterised by a longing to feel youthful again or one of deep regret/discontent relating to your economic, working or social status. Traditionally, it can be triggered by all manners of things, such as parental bereavement, children growing up/leaving home or a lack of career progression amongst others. We begin to understand our own mortality; perhaps consciously recognising people from our lives passing away or acquiring serious illnesses - something we may have been somewhat oblivious to in our youth. Could this
discontent now be triggered by excessive exposure to the perceived lives of others? A main ‘mid-life crisis’ characteristic is the feeling that there is a significant negative event about to hit you. After this, your life will never recover and you’ll be in permanent decline. As a result, you may trigger a plethora of dysfunctional behaviours to repel its arrival, such as substance abuse; unnecessary and extravagant spending; entering personal or social relationships with significantly younger people; or excessive, and potentially damaging, pressure on your children to excel in areas such as academia, sport or the arts. Of course, not everybody experiences a mid-life crisis. As psychologist David Almeida suggests, we mustn’t confuse the accumulation of a series of stressors with a mid-life crisis. We may just be momentarily overloaded. Nevertheless, with the opening age of social networking sites being approximately 13, selfanalysis in this stressfully public manner has become a fixture for some young adults. Lachman (2004) notes that personality type and a history of psychological crises can predispose some people to it. There’s a compelling argument that maybe we aren’t equipped for our current state of information overload. As a result, we’ve become less psychologically ‘hardy’ and a further by-product is the detrimental effect on our relationships, families and careers. In these rapidly changing times, it’s sometimes hard to keep up as cultures become increasingly homogenous due to the influence of the internet. We question our place and role within this new world more vociferously in comparison to our peers in a way never seen before. If we have become less mentally robust, isn’t it possible that the psychological characteristics known as the mid-life crisis may be happening earlier - and perhaps lasting even longer? If this is correct, the major question persists. How are you going to effectively deal with it, if you aren’t even aware it’s happening? About Martyn Stewart: A recognised chartered psychologist with the British Psychological Society. He has over 15 successful years assisting individuals worldwide via his mentoring, teaching and consultancy. He is also a published author and international motivational speaker. For more info visit: www.passareuk.com; email: info@passareuk.com; Twitter: @findasolutionuk
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ACTIVE BODY
INNOVATION, MOTIVATION, RESULTS WANT TO DO SOMETHING GOOD FOR YOURSELF? SIGN UP AND JOIN THE FITNESS FAMILY THAT IS F45 TRAINING.
through with varying intervals), and F45 Training has over 30 different circuits that are mixed into the schedule. Each circuit has its own theme and style and many members end up warming to particular ones, or even dreading others as they know it will be extra challenging.
The burning question…. What results can be expected?
F45 Training encourages members to come as often as possible, keep themselves motivated and live an active healthy lifestyle for a permanent life change. F45 also provides a free nutrition and diet plan to their members 4 times per year – this is called The 8 Week Body Transformation Challenge.
What is F45 Training, you ask?
It’s a revolutionary team-based, functional, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) system that has taken the world and Qatar by storm! F45 places a huge emphasis and focus on the “three key factors” of motivation, innovation and most importantly results. At F45 – the F standing for ‘functional’ and 45 as in the amount of minutes each training session is – the workout is never repeated, meaning each session you attend is an unique experience, and most importantly will keep your body guessing, therefore aiding to speed up the results process.
Why F45 Training?
The answer is simple: you’ll get into the best shape of your life but more importantly you will have a blast doing it. But wait; don’t get us wrong, F45 Training IS a solid 45 minutes of intense functional training. Sometimes – no, scrap that, most of the
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time, you will wish the session was only 20 minutes. But the antidote to that feeling is the sheer motivation provided by the F45 team. The enthusiastic and energetic coaches never fall short to bring the best out of you in an extremely motivating and positive way. F45 sessions are suitable for all fitness levels and even those with injuries (which coaches take into account and adapt the workout accordingly). Not to mention, you will be surrounded by a team of people who are as eager to get or to stay in incredible shape. Overall the environment is beyond contagious and probably one of the most welcoming and best fitness experiences you can get within Qatar.
What can you expect in each session?
To put it simply, 45 minutes of sweat, motivation and the ultimate sense of accomplishment. Sessions are set up in circuits (varying number of exercises that you move
The Challenge, designed by experts in nutrition, is an extremely easy to follow and tasty diet plan and is designed to get your body to drop as much body fat as possible within 8 weeks. Members receive access to a special application and web portal which provides access to the week’s shopping list as well as recipes for each week’s meals. Therefore the nutrition plan combined with (a minimum of four) F45 training sessions per week yields incredible results. The Training is designed to strip body fat and build lean, toned, muscle and not bulking up as the use of weights are not the main focus. Ok, so simply think of a lean, toned, athletic, beach body type…got that in your mind? Then, yes that’s the F45 look.
Intrested? Then grab a FREE 1 week trial by simply downloading the F45 Training app, and choosing Qatar as your country. You will then be able to train up to 5 free sessions over a 7-day period! Happy Training!
F45 Training, La Croisette 25, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Daily with a wide range of session timings throughout the day starting from 5.45am until 9pm, special ladies-only session daily at 11am. Call: 7068 9391.
pack your bags
IFIFYOU’RE YOU’REAAWANDERLUST WANDERLUSTLOVER, LOVER,THEN THENTHIS THISISISFOR FORYOU: YOU:FROM FROMGREECE GREECETO TOSEYCHELLES SEYCHELLESAND ANDBACK BACKTO TOQATAR, QATAR, QH GIVES YOU THE LOWDOWN ON HOW TO TRAVEL LIKE QH GIVES YOU THE LOWDOWN ON HOW TO TRAVEL LIKEAAPRO. PRO. 61
greece me up! IF YOU’RE ABOUT TO BREAK YOUR COIN BOX FOR THE ULTIMATE GREEK ESCAPADE, SOFIA GRANIELLO SHARES HER TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A HOLIDAY BANG.
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TRAVEL BUG
Paros The Lowdown:
Located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Paros is considered to be one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades. Known for its romantic views, blue-domed churches, and its traditional villages, Paros is the perfect start to your Cyclades adventure. But that’s not all, get swooned and hypnotized with its whitewashed house and blue doors, plus its famous beaches with breathtaking sunsets.
WHERE TO STAY:
Argonauta Hotel (Budget friendly) Where to Visit While in Paros:
Known for its famous beaches with cerulean and clear waters, Golden beach is a hit for those who enjoy to windsurfing. But if you’re more into relaxing and all about that tan, Kolymbithres beach will do the magic. Rent a paddleboat and succumb into the Aegean waters and paddle away to the nearest shore. For a romantic evening, Naoussa is a don’t-miss for delicious bubbly drinks and the
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Siena Hotel (If you’re feeling boujee) ultimate Mediterranean dish. And if perhaps a romantic walk is your thing, visit the village’s magical streets with small and compact stores for an all-Greek evening. Spend a day at Parikia, also known as Paros’ main port. With cobbled paths, blue and white churches, friendly locals, and small shops, Parikia is popular for great seafood restaurants. If you’re much of an explorer, take a daily trip to Antiparos. (We heard Tom Hanks has a house there, really.)
TRAVEL BUG
Naxos The Lowdown:
Being the biggest island of the Cyclades and known for its fertile landscape, Naxos is popular for its mountains, archeological gems and long stretched beaches. Producer of olives, grapes, citrus, corn and potato Naxos also offers dreamy and picturesque villages for a day trip.
Where to Stay:
Saint George Hotel Venetiko Apartments (close to Naxos’ port)
THE TO-DO LIST
For archeological lovers, Naxos holds historic gems that one must visit while on the island – Temple of Demeter being one of Naxos’ main attractions for a wonderful historical adventure.
Visit its castle where it also shares the Archeological Museum of Naxos with a medieval atmosphere. If walking is your main thing, visiting dreamy villages on the island such as: Filoti, Halki and Apiranthos. (If you’re feeling a tad adventurous, you can hike all three.) Visit Saint George beach and enjoy to breathtaking sunsets.
Koufonisia The Lowdown:
Being a trio of islands, Koufonisia mothers Pano Koufonisi (main island), Kato Koufonisi and Keros. Its main island, Pano, offers a tranquil vacation with a turquoise body of water and crystal clear views. But don’t be fooled by its peaceful vibe because Pano offers fun taverns to dine at, activities and relaxing areas.
Where to Stay:
Keros Art Hotel (friendly owners).
THE TO-DO LIST
Rent a bicycle and roam around the island from one tip to the other. Do-able and get that exercise rolling.
Enjoy to a delicious day at Pori with a breathtaking view of the island, clear beaches and fresh food. Hike the entire island. Seriously, do it. Take a one-day trip to its sister islands.
What to Eat in Greece: Well that is easy, here is a list of the must-haves for a successful Cyclades experience: • Greek Salad • Ellinikos (Greek Coffee) • Gyros • Keftethes (Meatballs) • Moussaka • Yemista • Kantaifi
How Do I Get to Each Destination? Ferry being the best option, get all the necessary info at: www.letsferry.gr/Ferry-Tickets/Greece
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WANDERLUST DINING
Blending the Traditional
with the Unexpected WITH JUST ONE RESTAURANT, LORIZON AT CARANA BEACH IS ENOUGH. WE FIND OUT WHY.
s
ychelle e S
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WANDERLUST DINING Located in Seychelles and situated on one of the most picturesque bays of Mahé island, Carana Beach hotel is not just architecturally breathtaking and visually spellbinding, but its lone restaurant Lorizon, is a gastronomy of fresh and local dining.
The Lowdown
Set against the backdrop of the ocean and overlooking the pristine beach, Lorizon (which means “horizon” in Creole) is a laid back and chilled restaurant that perfectly echoes the nonchalant stance of the island as a whole. Even more so on nights where diners are serenaded by the soft crooning voice of the restaurants live vocalist, singing renditions of well-known hits such as Bob Marley’s “Don’t worry about a thing”, which is ever so fitting!
The Menu
Certainly a fun and creative approach to both casual and semi-formal dining, Lorizon’s menu concept is inspired and sourced from the hotel’s family owned farm, ensuring the dishes are not just fresh but also authentically Seychellois. Lorizon’s head chef Darren, who hails from Australia, has created an original menu using the freshest local produce with contemporary cooking. This includes a great selection of international cuisines all sitting
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perfectly alongside traditional options of fresh fish and seafood. The restaurant is open nightly for dinner with offerings that rotate between creatively evolving a la carte menus and special themed dinners, such as a traditional family-style spread of Creole cuisine and barbecue evenings. A definite must is to leave room for the dessert. And when it comes to deciding what to order, it simply must be the ‘Golden Gaytime’. Taking its roots from Australia (a nod to the chef) the dessert is a deconstructed masterpiece of the much loved Aussie summer treat. The iconic ice cream now takes centre stage at Lorizon as a honeycomb, biscuit and chocolate marvel.
The Roundup
With a consistent focus on freshness and locality, dining at Lorizon is an imaginative culinary experience. Great selection of quality food that are very well presented and reasonably priced awaits its diners. With recently winning ‘Best Ambience’ in the World Luxury Restaurant Awards, it is easy to see why. Lorizon is an ideal setting to enjoy a spectacular view paired with equally refined cuisine for a traditional, elegant dinner. Guests are left to enjoy at their own pace and leisure, however, staff are without exception attentive and friendly at all times, going that extra mile to ensure you are left feeling that genuine island hospitality.
Lorizon Restaurant, Carana Beach, Mahe Island, Seychelles, daily for breakfast from 7.30am to 10am and for dinner from 7.30pm to 9:30pm. Call: 1-866-599-6674.
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LOCAL GETAWAY
COMFORTABLE, AFFORDABLE, AND CENTRALLY LOCATED POOJA FROM @LESREBELLESQUAD HEADED OVER TO WARWICK DOHA FOR A RELAXING STAYCATION. READ ON AS SHE BREAKS DOWN ALL THE HOTEL HAS TO OFFER.
The Lowdown Based in the heart of the city, Warwick Doha has a unique style which is evidently apparent as you enter the decadent lobby and reception. Greeted with a warm and friendly service the hotel is situated on the bustling corner of one of Doha’s well-known landmarks, with rooms overlooking the city’s busy street. From the huge chandeliers to the framing of the room, and to the gold bathroom taps, I personally adored the regal decor of this hotel. Continue reading to find out the rest of my favourite parts to the stay and my recommendations.
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LOCAL GETAWAY
Take A Peek Into My Room My staycation was in the executive suite where there was a lovely comfy bed, a TV lounge room, a TV in my room and thank goodness for plenty of wardrobe space to put my clothes! The windows overlooked the hustle and bustle of the city roads. I always love when a hotel has lovely bathroom products – they were Bulgari and smelt divine, a nice treat! My favourite feature was the large bath and of course and a cool rainwater shower. Come Dine With Me The only restaurant I visited was ‘L’auberge’ due to ‘Carisma’ being renovated and the ‘Moon Deck’ was in use for a private party. During my breakfast I had the chef prepare poached eggs and the buffet offerings included Arabic cuisine, continental selection and in addition some more heavy dishes such as curry for those who like it! ‘L’auberge’ has a dinner buffet for which the staff are very attentive and it is perfect for large families and or large groups as there is something for everyone! Additionally I am delighted to reveal that the ‘Carisma’ restaurant will reopen by mid-September, so stay tuned! The Pamper Effect Now this may not come as a surprise but my favourite part of the hotel was the spa. I was truly pampered when I experienced the Swedish full body massage and the rejuvenating facial! The facial was such a perfect midweek pick-me-up. My skin was glowing from their ‘calm and purify’ treatment which was the first ever cold ice facial I have had. It was shocking and refreshing all at the same time! As for the Swedish massage I was so relaxed for one full hour whilst my body was so meticulously handled. The masseuse Adel knew exactly the right target areas to focus on and made me feel so comfortable, I highly recommend it if you are staying at the Warwick. SIDE NOTE: It was not all just pampering and relaxation for me...there is also a well-equipped gym, which I proudly made use of. But of course, I swiftly rewarded my exhaustive workout efforts with a long sauna and steam session which are also available in the spa. The Roundup If you are staying in Doha for a quick business trip and looking for something comfortable, affordable and centrally located, you will find it all and more at the Warwick Doha hotel.
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Warwick Doha, Sports Roundabout, Al Rayyan Road, Al Sadd. Call: 4456 3333.
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AT A GLANCE
World Athletics attention turns to Doha Doha has become the next host city of the world’s third biggest sporting event following a momentous handover ceremony in the London 2017 Stadium, broadcast to a global audience as this year’s World Championships came to a spectacular end. Doha will host the IAAF World Championships in Athletics at Khalifa International Stadium in two years’ time, bringing athletics’ flagship event to the Middle East for the first time in history.
D E T T O SP
HIA and FC Bayern München Enhance Sponsorship Hamad International Airport (HIA), Qatar’s 5* airport, announced its enhanced sponsorship with legendary German football club FC Bayern München as Platinum sponsor, as well as unveiling the latest FC Bayern jersey featuring HIA-Qatar’s distinctive logo on the sleeve.
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AT A GLANCE
Qatar Welcomes First Batch of Doha Metro Trains at Hamad Port They’re finally here! Qatar Railways Company has successfully received the first batch of the Doha Metro trains from Japan’s Kobe Port. Being two month ahead of schedule, the batch includes a total of 75 trains, where they shall be transported to Qatar Rail’s Al Wakra Depot for its testing phase.
Hamad Bin Khalifa University Opens its Doors to Students from Across the Globe With a diverse student body of over 45 nationalities, HBKU kick-starts its academic journey as they also welcome the learners to the University’s researchintensive programs.
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Mall of Qatar welcomes renowned chocolate cafĂŠ: Life with Cacao. The popular Kuwaiti chain, best known for its delicious gourmet desserts, is now in Qatar! So make sure to hit the mall for an exquisite afternoon filled with sweetness overload.
White Oryx Thai Restaurant and Its Week-End Buffet The Asian restaurant hosted a warm gathering to try its newly, allinclusive week-end buffet lunch. The guests were all enjoying delicious and authentic Indo-Thai delicacies with a Middle Eastern twist.
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AT A GLANCE
Life with Cacao
AT A GLANCE
Eli France Hosts Its First Ever Social Media Night One of the oldest cafes in the city with a rich heritage and history, Eli France hosted a warm gathering with Doha’s top influencers to experience the wonderful café and its delectable offerings.
Nando’s Now At Doha Festival City The restaurant went big for its opening at the new and upbeat mall; plus first to open its doors at the newly opened ‘casual dining’ area on the first floor, adjoining VOX Cinemas promising to be a cuttingedge family entertainment complex.
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Located on the lobby level of Oryx Rotana Hotel, the award-winning Chinese Restaurant and Lounge Chi’Zen held the first of many media nights where guests were taken on a Far-East Asian culinary journey. Guests were treated to a menu of delicious menu full of Chi’Zen favourites prepared by Chef Pinaki, Chi’Zen’s Head Chef.
Sundowner sessions at Flip Flops Flip Flops Beach Club located on the beautiful beach at the Grand Hyatt Hotel is the only dedicated beach scene in Doha. Flip Flops’ unique beach-shack design combines rustic beach charm with a shabby-chic décor, ensuring a relaxing beach-style atmosphere. Make new friends, get hyped and have a blast at night or chill out in the unique ambiance by day.
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AT A GLANCE
Chi’Zen takes guests on a Far-East Asian culinary journey.
PHONE DIRECTORY
HOTELS Adagio Premium ApartHotel West Bay Al Gassar Resort AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Centro Capital Doha City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Diplomatic Club Doha Marriott Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Four Seasons Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha The Grand Hyatt Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Millennium Hotel Doha Millenium Plaza Doha Mövenpick Hotel Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Grand Doha The Curve Hotel The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha Warwick Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Wyndham Grand Regency
4403-8888 4424-4881 4489 9000 4040-5050 4402 3333 4445-8888 4408-7777 4484 7444 4429-8888 4034 3333 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4041 6999 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4007-8888 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4456 3333 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333
AIRLINES
Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air France 4444-5101 American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India 4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 Oman Air 4432-0509
Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Sri Lankan Airlines Turkish Airlines
4449-6666 4443-1431 4444-1217 4443-3027
HEALTH / BEAUTY Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Française 4468-9211 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 Heavenly Spa 4492-1555 La Donna Spa & Beauty Lounge 4421 6555 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999
TOURISM / TRAVEL Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental
4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635
USEFUL NUMBERS Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital Emergency Hotline Al Ahli Hospital Hamad General Hospital Rumailah Hospital Pediatric Emergency Qatar Foundation For Child & Woman Protection Hotline Worldwide Emergency Numbe
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999 4438-4333 4435-5999 4489-8000 4439-2222 4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671 112
Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444
AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8817 Chowking Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 FOOD SERVICE German Bakery Company 4442-8877 Coffee Planet 4442-8877 PUBLICATIONS QH Magazine 4427-8416
SHOPPING Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245
EMBASSIES American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy
4496-6000 4483-9360 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4203 4483-2424 4402-1702 4408-2300 4412-8150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 4485-7111 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880
Humanitarian Services Office (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies)
Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Qatar Airways 40253374
LAST WORD
9am Texting (between editors) Be Like… Y A D UES out
T orkat! w e
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