ABODE - August / September 2011 by ABODE Qatar

ABODE

team

Photography Mikhail Quijano; Model Isabella Haycock of Trinity Models-Qatar; Hair Roula Rassalan of Spa Chakra; Makeup Janie S. Mayandoc of MAC; Styling Sydnee Bryant; Interiors Forum Design; Clothes courtesy of Ralph Lauren

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Chairman Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief Kataryna Dmoch Managing Partner Moona Masri-Whitice Executive Director Interim Executive Editor Sydnee Bryant Nitya Shukla Associate Editor “Boby” Ildiko Francia Senior Art Director Paola Santin, Paolo Tan Graphic Designer Deliah Furcoi Advertising Manager Business Development Kristina Helg Consultant Katrina Senga Marketing Coordinator Finalizer/ Srimani Welagedara Production Manager Lanie Fillo-Pana Distribution Contributors AJ Corey Jorge Granda Willemina Mansell-van Eeghen Lauren Penny Mary Sebastian Frank Webb Mikhail Quijano Photographer Print Communications Owner & Licensee An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group of Companies. Gulf Publishing & Printing Co. Printers ENQUIRIES ON THE ABOVE SECTIONS PLEASE CONTACT: TEL: +974 4443-2224 FAX: +974 4443-2225 ADVERTISING INFORMATION Qatar: +974 4443-2224 LEGAL NOTICE ABODE is owned and published monthly by Print Communications, P.O. Box 7848, Doha, Qatar. An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group of Companies. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publisher under the copyright laws of the State of Qatar. All rights reserved. No responsibility taken for unintentional errors or unsolicited material. Use of trademark is strictly prohibited.

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PEOPLE HOME 24 At Home With Forum Design 33 Timothy Corrigan

An Ancient Connection

The Magnetic Businessman

The People Connection

Comfortable Elegance

44 Welcoming Ramadan

110

to Your Home

LIFESTYLE

55 FOOD&

ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION

53 On The Table: An Arabic Feast

70 Colour Theory

76 Get to Know The ‘Right’ You

Mediterranean Tales

64 The Beauty of Simplicity

80 Get Gorgeous

Juice Your Way to Health

Say Yes to Hydro

A Royal Treatment

Prepare Your Skin For Summer

Spending Your Holidays In Qatar

102 Bon Voyage:

Seattle, France and Sweden!

110

Feel the Art of Fatma Al Naima

114 Behind The Wheels:

Porsche, Captiva & Acadia

122 Tech Support AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 9

EDITOR’S

letter

IN THIS ISSUE... This month, the ABODE team has been busy producing a double issue highlighting the Holy Month of Ramadan and the summer holidays. As you gather with your friends and family to break the fast, we have included a variety of ideas for you to consider; including delectable recipes to try and helpful hints for decorating your home during this celebration, plus special get away promotions from three distinctive hotels. What is more, if you are a health enthusiast, you will enjoy our unique story on Joe Cross and how juicing transformed his life, including simple recipes to help you feel good. His website is www.fatsickandnearlydead.com.

RAMADAN SPECIAL

Ramadan Recipes

You will find this issue of ABODE is 128 pages packed with exciting features, sound advice and engaging interviews from the very best personalities in their chosen field - Interior Design, Style, Makeup, Fashion, Arts and Entertainment. A few of our favourite features include; Forum Design Creative Director, Megan Bret, who will teach you easy to follow principles for mixing and matching patterns. You can reach Megan by email at (megan.bret@ahbqatar.com). American Interior Designer, Timothy Corrigan, previously featured in Architectural Digest Magazine, will share design secrets for you to consider at home. Our interview with top Mitsubishi Evolution Race Car Driver, Wissam Assaf, will inspire you to follow your passions in life. And If cars happen to be your obsession, we have reviews of Porsche Carrera, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Captiva, to encourage your need to purchase a new car. (Nothing is better than the smell of new leather.) Plus our exclusive interview with the Ambassador of The Peoples Republic of China, Mr Zhang Zhiliang.

Ramadan Tent Decor Ideas

And finally, if you’re a planning a holiday getaway, consider our featured travel destinations – The Emerald City, Seattle, Washington, USA, The Venice of France, Lake Annecy or The Archipelago of Vastkusteno, Sweden – all three of which are wonderful Summer/Autumn locations to rest and enjoy with family. Regardless of how you choose to celebrate your summer holidays we wish you the very best. For those of you celebrating Ramadan, may this Ramadan be as bright as ever; bringing joy, health and wealth to you and those you love.

SPECIAL SECTION Highlighting hotel promotions. Check page 95 for more details.

Mabrook and Ramadan Kareem.

RAMADAN GIFT GUIDE

NASSER AHMED HASSAN BILAL EDITOR IN CHIEF C

Fanoos Arabic Lantern

RAMADAN GIVEAWAY Tell us why you love ABODE and get the chance to win one of the following Ramadan Giveaways: • A complimentary Iftar for two from Mövenpick Hotel Doha • A brunch for two in September at The Grill, Grand Hyatt Doha. • One (1) night stay in a W Suite for two with breakfast included.* Email us at info@printcomqatar.com

The best letter will be featured in our next issue. Coach Signature for Women

Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1

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*Offer at W Doha is subject to availability and available until the end of the year, on weekends only.

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Doha 360째

Society An Ancient Connection

19 21

The Magnetic Businessman The People Connection

DOHA

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Doha at a glance

AspirE lADiEs cinEMA sHOwcAsEs first EvEr AtA At tAri MOviE full fEAt EA urE QAt EAt The Aspire Ladies Cinema opened business recently by showcasing Clockwise, the first ever full feature-length movie to be made in Qatar. The director of Clockwise, Qatar’s own Khalifa Al Muraikhi, was delighted his film was chosen as the Ladies Cinema’s first feature. “Producing this movie was tiring and time-consuming,” he said, “But, I am proud of its artistic value and that we achieved international standards of filmmaking in completing it.” TV presenter and movie actress Maysa Al-Maghrebi (pictured below), who plays the role of the genie in the film, was present at the opening. Speaking about the influence of cinema on people, Maysa said: “Cinema shows us the points of strengths and weaknesses of people and shows the world in different ways. We need your belief in us for us to develop a film industry in the GCC region.”

MövEnpick HOtEl DOHA AnnOuncEs tOp AppOintMEnts Fabien Chesnais (pictured) takes over the leadership reins as General Manager of the hotel. Coming from the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, where he held the position of Hotel Manager. Fabien kick started his career in Food & Beverage with Hilton in Egypt, France and England, prior to joining the Mövenpick Hotels & Resort in 2007. Ruwaida Abela has been appointed as Communications Manager; Having previously worked with InterContinental Hotels Group, Starwood and The Ritz Carlton, she brings with her years of experience across North Africa, Europe and the GCC. Walaa El Sayed assumes the role of Director of Sales. Walaa has accumulated a wealth of experience with various brands such as The Address, Jumeirah and Fairmont in the UAE. ABODE wishes him the best of luck.

w HOsts tHE GliOn AluMni DinnEr W Doha recently hosted the Glion Hospitality Management School Alumni Dinner at their Spice Market restaurant. Glion has five Alumni working at the W Doha Hotel, and 25 other members based in Qatar, working for luxury hotels or other hospitality companies. Switzerland-based Glion Institute of Higher Education is one of the top university-level hospitality management schools in the world. Edgar Vaudeville, PR & Events Manager, W Doha, said: “Being part of this amazing hotel management school has been a great asset in my career. This is why we are supporting the school in finding good positions for young talented students to get interesting jobs in Qatar and the Middle East.”

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cOrp ExEcutivE plAy A s Ay HOst tO HMH DElEGAti GA On GAti

Mr Ahmad Ali Al Kuwari, Chairman, Al Kuwari International Group and owner of Corp Executive Hotel Doha Suites with Michel Noblet, President & CEO, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings and others from the HMH delegation

Corp Executive Hotel Doha Suites recently celebrated its soft opening by playing host to the Hospitality Management Holdings gathering. Chairman of the Al Kuwari International Group and owner of Corp Executive Hotel Doha Suites, Ahmad Ali Al Kuwari, welcomed the delegation. President and chief executive officer of HMH Michel Noblet said, “The resilience of the Qatari market in the face of the global slowdown has everything to do with the growth of the country’s economy. In just the first quarter of this year, Qatar has attracted over 1.8 million visitors, which highlights the hotel sector’s potential.”

nOkiA DiscussEs nEw strAt A EGy At Nokia unveiled its latest handsets including N9, E6 and C2 series and discussed at length its overall business and product strategy for the approaching 12 months in a recently held press conference. According to Tom Farrell, General Manager of Nokia Lower Gulf, “We want to underline our commitment and dedication to the Qatari market by discussing our new strategy and introducing our latest products that are at the cutting edge of handset technology and useability. We are very grateful to our distributor in Qatar, CGC, who ensure that our customers experience all that Nokia has to offer in the best way possible.” Anil Mahajan, CGC Chief Operating Officer, said: “We are very proud to host Tom Farrell and Nokia here in Doha. Our partnership with both Nokia and with Nokia customers is incredibly strong and with such a dedicated strategy supported by such fantastic products, we are very confident about Nokia in Qatar and the wider Lower Gulf as a whole.” Tom Farell (second left), General Manager, Nokia, addressing at a media briefing held in Doha on Wednesday. Anil Mahajan (third left), Chief Operating Officer, CGC; Sally Hamandi (left) Communication Manager, Nokia; and Jehad Al Qudah, Retail Manager, CGC, also seen at the briefing

ictQAt AtA At tAr p pArtnErs witH pOtEntiAl tO HOst innOvA vAt vA AtiOn tHEAt tHEA rE Leading UAE-based business development company Potential.com hosted the inaugural session of Innovation Theatre in Doha, comprising a mix of live pitching and structured feedback sessions for 28 shortlisted young entrepreneurs. Held in conjunction with Qatar’s Supreme Council for Information and Communication Technology (ICTQatar), the Innovation Theatre rewarded six contestants with the opportunity to set up their own businesses and over USD50,000 worth of services and business assistance. The top spot was won by Khalid AbouJassim and his team at Wanasa World, an “edutaining” multi-player game that promotes the Arabic culture and value. During the event, ICTQatar also unveiled the ‘Incubation Centre, a dedicated development initiative for start-ups in Qatar that aims to provide access to innovative digital platforms, international partners, business development services, coaching and mentorship.

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DOHA

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360 society

Doha

Standard Chartered sweeps 18 awards at the emeafinance Awards Standard Chartered won 18 awards, including awards for Syndicated Loans, Islamic Finance, Project Finance and the best bond in the Middle East, at the emeafinance Charity Awards Dinner held in London. Deepak Kohli, Regional Head, Capital Markets, MENA & South Asia, who represented the Bank at the event said: “These awards attest to Standard Chartered’s continued success in delivering creative, worldclass solutions to our clients across the product spectrum. It’s great to see that our success is recognised by a regional magazine that is widely read by our clients as well as our competitors.”

Dana Jewelry showcases the Flowers and Berries Collection Dana Jewelry recently celebrated its fourth anniversary with a private showcase of owner Dalia Piñeiro’s latest collections. The exclusive Flowers and Berries Collections exhibition showcased the innovative talent of the Venezuelan jewelry designer, with collections made from semiprecious stones, Swarovski™ crystals, Swarovski™ crystal pearls and fresh water pearls. Dalia Piñeiro (right) with guests.

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QAt AtA At tAr winnEr sArA Al kuwA w ri succEssfully wA cOMplEtEs innOvA vAti vA AtivE DuBAi intErnsHip The Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE), an agency of the Department of Economic Development (DED), and organizers of Dubai Summer Surprises, successfully concluded the sixth edition of the Dubai Summer Surprises Apprenticeship Program with presentations from the 11 participating students during the closing ceremony. The two-week long DSS Apprenticeship Programme put young students under the mentorship of marketing and management experts to live the reality of organising an event. Qatar winner Sara Al Kuwari (pictured), a student at Qatar University, said: “The agenda was very diverse and stimulating and we were given the opportunity to work closely with a group of experts from the DSS team, who have considerable experience in the field of marketing and events management. I was also very happy to meet colleagues from different Arab countries, and experience the opportunity to exchange knowledge and marketing ideas that we can apply after we graduate from college.”

Mlc flywHEEl EnErGy Khalid Ali-Al Mohannadi (pictured) is the Communications Manager of the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP). For the past two years the prominent Qatari has worked intently in creating awareness about many projects being developed at QSTP. Among one of those projects is the “Flywheel technology” under development at the Williams Technology Center in Qatar. The Williams Technology Centre (WTC) at QSTP is developing large, highpower, electromechanical composite flywheel energy storage machines. These machines will deliver increased efficiency and reliability in mass transportation, smart grids and other high-power, high-cycle applications. The large MLC flywheel machines being developed in Qatar will primarily address the rapid transit (metros, trams and monorails) and electric power stabilization sectors. Incorporation into rapid transit systems will help improve regenerative braking, increase reliability, reduce electricity consumption and cut infrastructure costs. In an electric power stabilization role, they will be deployed to help smooth output from intermittent renewable generation sources, provide fast response frequency regulation and provide short term demand peak shaving to help strengthen electricity grids.

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people

An Ancient

Connection By Nitya Shukla Photography Mikhail Quijano

The friendship between China and Qatar has existed for centuries and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Zhang Zhiliang, says that his role is to ensure that they continue to work not just as friends, but brothers.

rom the tiny lanterns that hang outside the main entrance to the ornate Chinese handicrafts along with showpieces depicting Qatar, Ambassador Zhiliang’s residence is an expression of his country here in Qatar - an appropriate meeting ground for both countries. Over cups of delicately prepared green tea, Ambassador Zhiliang opened up to the ABODE team about his affection for Qatar, which he now considers his home and his desire to discover and know it better. A dedicated patriot, his pride in his nation is clear when we ask him his source of inspiration. For him, whether it is China or Qatar, he finds similar traits in both people such as warmth, friendliness and dedication to name a few. Such was his interest in Qatar that an interview with him turned into a conversation about why we all love Qatar. Here are excerpts from the interview that followed where he shared the secret of his success. ABODE: Who is your source of inspiration? ZZ: The founder of the People’s Republic of China Mao Zedong is my model. A great personality in Chinese history, he led the people to be emancipated and established the new China. The first premier Zhou Enlai is also a source of inspiration to me. His contribution towards world peace, such as the five principles of peaceful co-existence, (which were proposed by him) still serve the relationship between China and other countries. It not only laid the foundation of China’s foreign policy featuring independence and peace, but is also accepted by most countries in the world.

ABODE: What is the main attraction that draws everyone to China? ZZ: I think people and products are the two most attractive factors for Qataris. Firstly, the Chinese people share same traits as the Arab people, such as warmth, hospitality, genuineness, friendliness, intellect, dedication, bravery and diligence. In addition, both make huge contributions to human civilization. Secondly, ‘Made in China’ is world-renowned for its fine quality and cost-effectiveness. Chinese products help many countries curb and decrease inflation rates. My personal view is, whoever deals with the Chinese and establishes good relations, and whoever consumes Chinese products, are among the lucky ones. ABODE: What’s your suggestion to students who inspire to become follow in your footsteps? ZZ: The first essential quality of a diplomat is patriotism. Chinese compare their country to their mother. It shows how sincere our patriotism is. Maintaining the national interests and serving the country is the duty of a diplomat. Furthermore, diplomats not only have to master foreign languages, but also they have to learn communication skills, which is heartto-heart communication. With that you can win sincere and true friends. ABODE: Describe your experience in Qatar. ZZ: Since my arrival eight months ago, I have enjoyed living and working in Qatar very much. In my role, I contribute to the friendship between both our

people and governments. Furthermore, this friendship is still deepening and developing. The economy of Qatar is booming rapidly and the people enjoy living and working, which contrasts from the situation in some other Arab countries, if you compare them. This proves that His Highness The Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and Qatari government is loved and supported by its people; the policy and strategy is correct and that the government has good executive power. The Qatari experience is a great example for some other Arab countries to learn from. ABODE: What is your role as an Ambassador? ZZ: The role of the Chinese Ambassador to Qatar is to promote the development of bilateral ties in all fields, to ensure that our people work as not only friends, but brothers. To achieve this aim, we need to respect and understand each other and seek common ground while reserving the differences. For instance, our two countries have different political systems, but it should not be a barrier on the road of developing our relations. Arab people are warm, hospitable, genuine and friendly. The friendship between Chinese people and Arab people has a long history. After the delightful interview, we asked Ambassador Zhiliang what he would like to try while in Qatar, to which he replied that he would like to try real, traditional Qatari food and camel milk chocolate. We agreed! •

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I Love What I Do

ABODE: What are some of the most challenging aspects of your job?

Keki Ashburner

The Magnetic

Businessman

BY SyDNEE BRyA y NT PHOTOGRAPHY MIkHAIL QUIjANO yA

KeKi Ashburner, CEO of Starlink, is having a good year. The magnetic businessman is making his brand synonymous with communications here in Qatar, in addition to expanding into other countries. ABODE chatted with Ashburner to find out some of the secrets to his success. ABODE: How long have you been in Qatar? KA: I moved here at the end of August 2009, so it’s coming up to two years. ABODE: How did your career with Starlink start? KA: I moved out here to work with Qtel on a new project. Once that was complete, I was offered the job of CEO at Starlink. Qtel has a 60 per cent stake in Starlink. ABODE: What is your role as CEO of Starlink? KA: My main priority is to develop and run the business to make sure that all of our loyal and new customers are

happy with their dealings with Starlink. Making the shareholders happy also plays a significant part in my role. ABODE: What do you hope to achieve during your time with Starlink? KA: I want to see the Starlink brand synonymous with telecoms and communications here in Qatar and for Starlink to be recognized and respected within the country. Additionally, I want to expand the business outside of Qatar, something which we have already started with our recent agreement to supply our products to Iraq. An agreement with Oman is also in the pipeline.

KA: Finding not just good people, but the right people. It’s extremely important that anyone coming to work at Starlink fits our brand and lives by our brand values: teamwork, responsibility, great service, respect, loving work and responsibility. We also look for people who can provide the best service for our customers, which is always our main priority. ABODE: What are your tips for being successful in the business world? KA: Being honest and straightforward is extremely important in everything you do. Hard work and integrity play a large part as well. ABODE: What is the most valuable thing you have learned during your career? KA: Be in the right place at the right time and watch for the opportunity. When you see it, grab it and don’t let go. ABODE: What is it like doing business in Qatar compared to other countries? KA: The pace of doing business is more measured compared with other countries I have worked in. I also think that much more depends on developing close relationships prior to conducting any business. ABODE: Where do you see yourself in five years? KA: If all goes according to plan – retired! •

FAVORITE THINGS Indian food, reading books by Stephen King, drinking Carluccios coffee, going to any destination where I can ski – I go to the French Alps quite a lot. AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 19

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I Love What I Do

and fulfilling the personal ego of all the team members. It works like magic. ABODE: What do you treasure most about your job?

Kevork Deldelian

The People

Connection

BY MARy SEBASTIAN PHOTOGRAPHY MIkHAIL QUIjANO

In a time where the prevailing opinion is that the guest is always right, Oryx Rotana’s general manager KevorK K DelDeliAn breathes fresh air into hospitality industry management with his innovative and peoplefriendly ideas. Unwinding over a cup of coffee, Deldelian speaks of his passion and what drives him to achieve, every single day of his life. ABODE: What defines a career achievement? KD: Achievement relates to many opportunities presented in our day to day life to make us feel the satisfaction of being successful in delivering a particular target. I have been working in the hospitality business for the last 26 years and the most valuable thing I have learnt is that my team is the best means to achieving my short and long term business objectives and over the years my team became the centre of my day to day activities.

Every morning while having my coffee, I set one objective to achieve in that particular day. This is usually a target that relates to my team members, sometimes targeting one specific individual or a small group. This target is always related to happy news, such as catching one of them doing something right or rewarding a team member for an excellent performance or acknowledging the success and achievements of a particular department. The next thing is one of my guests complimenting the team and the hotel which leads to massaging

KD: The best part of my job is meeting and interacting with people. Guests share with me their experiences through constructive feedback which, if positive, provides me with the opportunity to acknowledge a successful team member, and if negative, provides me with the insight in regards to who in my team needs to develop, so as to deliver the promised standard to the guest. This exploration provides me with the opportunity of practicing what I like most, and that is interacting and developing my team who in turn delivers a product that keeps the clients coming back. ABODE: What is the biggest lesson learned in your career? KD: People who work in this industry build a tendency to be of service to others which one can master only if he has a big heart that can accommodate all. For this industry to move forward, we still need a product called human beings and many attempts to automate the delivery of our product have failed. Taking my team away from my hotel will turn it into a body without a soul. The building can become anything but a hotel. ABODE: 10 months into the launch, and you have already pocketed the award of Qatar’s Leading Business Hotel 2011 (from World Travel Awards). How do you feel? KD: The biggest acknowledgement of achievement comes from the end user, our guest. Receiving this particular award within such a short time after opening the hotel was quite a pleasant surprise which boosted the morale of all our team members and conveyed to our supporters that the Oryx Rotana is a good partner to have. •

FAVORITE THINGS Food, Travel destination: Rome Favourite way to exercise: Cardiovascular, Favourite coffee shop: Second Cup, The Pearl-Qatar, Author: William Gibson AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 21

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At Home with Forum Design: An Elegant Twist of Pattern Featured Designer Timothy Corrigan: Comfortable Elegance

Sleeping Secrets

40 42 44 46

Luxury Living in Westbay

Seasonal Blooms Welcoming Ramadan to Your Home

Fun in the Sun

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Scandinavian Décor soft and Muted. The focal point of our project was a neutral off-white Schnadig Sofa. The palette of light blue and brown is a restful and easy combination to add to any bedroom or living room. In this picture: Three colours have been selected – taupe, light blue, and beige. The curtains match the colour of the walls and tie in to the sofa.

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An Elegant Twist of Patterns BY MEGAN BRET AND MOONA ONA WHITICE PHOTOGRAPHY HOTOGRAPHY MIkHAIL QUIjANO

Mixing and matching patterns in your home is the perfect way to introduce different styles and patterns you love without feeling constrained. Many people don’t do so because they are afraid or not sure how to add another pattern. If you follow a few simple rules, you can add style with fabrics and start combining patterns like a pro.

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Bedroom Suite

In this bedroom suite our fabric selections are a mix of silk damask and sheers with tweed and weaved cotton to create a more eclectic interior.

Pattern and Texture Tips:

W he n c ombinin g fa b ri pa t te r c ns you should mix: • 1 la r g e sc a l e pa • 1 s t te r n m a l l sc a l e pa t te r n T h e se fabrics c a n be g eom e t r i c, s t riped o To add r flora balance l always one or u se mo r e s oli d fa with tex b r ic s ture in the gro uping

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, the g textures in in b m o c n Whe t as strict: rules are no refined etting: Mix s l a rm o F ask, • as silk dam h c u s s re textu et, lace, etc sheers, velv rougher etting: Mix s y h rt a E nvas, • s tweed, ca a h c u s s c fabri etc uroy, plaid, rd o c r, e th a le

u p sc ale D es ig n Break ing ou t o mold by com f the b ining rough wit you on h smooth p uts the cu tting e of ups dg e cale d esign

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Bridgehampton Wood Chair • Sand Dune Finish. Custom Ordered. Schnadig QR 3,390

Fabrics used in Bedroom Suite

Style

Silk

e Twe

TO STEAL

Furniture specially ordered from Forum Design

e Twe

Linen

Vanguard Cocktail Table with Nail Trim • This taupe contemporary adds an eclectic style to the room. QR 4,115

Cot ton

d ave We

C ot

t on

Brighton Sofa • Custom Ordered. Schnadig QR 5,180

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Here are other examples of colour tones and patterns: • Don’t Be Afraid

Colour Palette: Pistachio with matching off-white tones.

You too can add variety without making the room look unsettled. If you want to spice up your current living space, use the rule of 4: limit the number of fabric designs to three or four. Take into consideration what you are using the pattern for. Start by selecting a main colour, then pair it with three or more complimenting patterns. For example: a Cool French Country palette is beige, off white and blue.

• WOW Factor Make sure you pick a colour you can live with 24/7 as your base colour. Add florals, geometric prints, classy stripes and other coordinating patterns to make the room come alive with personality and seem more interesting. The secret to mixing them together is ensuring that the fabrics all share that one unifying shade. step ep 1: Choose one solid textured pattern

This designer has combined neutral colours (white and black) with a bright cheery green. Take note they have used a large scale pattern, a small scale pattern, and a geometric pattern as accent cushions with two solids on the main pieces of furniture. Follows all the rules!

step 2: Choose three patterns with same colour coordinating scheme

Colours you can use: Grass Jotun Paints Use it for walls

8163

olive Dip 1782 Jotun Paints Use it for walls

Woodsmoke 0568 Jotun Paints Use it for trim and ceiling

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Pistachio Green

Green shades give you a stronger understanding of yourself and enable you to create a more nurturing, supportive world. Green is also considered a healing colour as it represents life, security and freshness. When you combine this colour with golden brown, tan or beige it will give the room the tranquil atmosphere of the nature. Best used in living rooms and bedrooms.

The More you like Green, The more you love to nurture people

The less you like Green, The more independent you are

»The Dewey Color System ® is the world’s only validated, colour-based personality testing instrument. It’s the first proven system that scientifically predicts the recognized major psychometric personality factors without language. For more information, visit www.deweycolorsystems.com

ABODE

• Build upon accents colours Accessorize with flowers, vases, frames, lamps, pillows, even magazines and books in the colour palette of the room. Try to find accessories that match one of the three colours you have decided upon. Stick to one main colour to accessorize the room with. Make sure it compliments your walls and curtains.

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Fabric suggestions in mustard yellow with matching off-white and beige tones…

• Create a Swatch Board Finally, an Interior Designer will first create a swatch board of all the fabrics choices to ensure they are all working together. Have fun and cut out swatches you are interested in, then paste them on a cardboard that you can carry when you go shopping. This way you will never make a mistake - as you will have the “big picture” with you at all times. step ep 1: Choose one textured fabric

Here is a very different case: this designer has put together the room using yellow, blue and beige. The upholstered blue coloured chairs are the accent in the room. To liven up this room I would add mixed fabrics in different shades as pictured above. Adding floral patterns, geometric, stripes, plaids or polka dots adds personality and an eclectic design. So express yourself and have fun!

step ep 2: Choose three fabric patterns with the same colour coordinating scheme

Colours you can use: Mustard Yellow

Yellow shades give you the wisdom to know what you want and need. It encourages communication and is considered a happy colour. Use this colour in your decor and add optimism and a positive outlook to any room. When selecting yellow paint make sure you choose a few shades lighter as it can be too dark after applied. Use a bright yellow to create excitement or to brighten up blues, purple, taupe and brown décor. Best used in living rooms, bathrooms and bedrooms.

The More you like Yellow, you are more likely to be a team player

bed spread

1633

Creamy Yellow

sahara Soft yellow

0578

Polar Adventure Soft blue

4399

The less you like Yellow, You are more demanding and controlling

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HOME

décor

Comfortable

eLeGAnCe International design star Timothy Corrigan has been working on projects in Doha for the last eighteen months, and recently met with ABODE to show how anyone can easily achieve his signature look of great comfortable elegance. AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 33

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“

No matter how beautiful a space is, it is not entirely successful if it is not completely comfortable; you need to feel that you can make yourself at home in that space in order for it to be a successfully designed space.

”

s one of the world’s top 100 architects and designers by Architectural Digest, Timothy Corrigan has designed the homes, yachts and airplanes of today’s biggest celebrities and international royalty, and is known for creating a look that is full of European elegance while infused with California casual. As a designer, he tries to incorporate fresh ideas into each project, but always remains true to his design philosophy. Here are some of Corrigan’s tips on how you can create the same great look in your home.

Create inviting and intimate conversation areas: Even in very large spaces the key is to create multiple seating areas. Don’t place your furniture all around the perimeters of the room—break the space up into smaller seating arrangements so that groups can have more intimate areas to talk.

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décor

Mix and match: Be eclectic Don’t make all of your furniture look the same—mix different styles, periods and looks to create a more interesting space. Corrigan mixes elegant and casual together to make each piece of furniture feel more unusual. A contemporary piece paired with an antique lets you see each piece in a new way.

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dĂŠcor

Create a focal point: In an entry hall or large living area it is important to create a strong focal point for people to notice. A large plant, sculpture or floral arrangement gives the eye something to notice and creates a visual point of interest in a room.

Use colour in rooms: For Corrigan, colour plays a key role in creating rooms that are elegant and comfortable. He boldly mixes strong colours together to make rooms that look warm and inviting. He mixes colours that one might not normally expect together, like blue and orange or red and purple.

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décor

Have fun at home: Corrigan asks: “Why should you only have exciting, fun-looking spaces out at restaurants or clubs?” Creating imaginative, exciting spaces in your own home means that you can entertain friends and family without having to go out!

Don’t be afraid of antiques: Antiques are often no more expensive than new reproduction furniture and they help give a room an immediate sense of elegance and history. Not only are antiques a good investment, mixing them with more contemporary pieces of furniture helps create a more interesting, eclectic look for your home.

Corrigan has been named one of the top interior designers in the world for the last six years and has offices in Paris and Los Angeles. You can contact him on www.Timothy-Corrigan.com.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 37

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Sleeping Tips Secrets for a good night’s rest BY NITyA yA SHUkLA yA

ABODE looks at why we need sleep, what makes a perfect mattress and where to find the best Egyptian cotton sheets.

tHE iMpOrtAncE Of slEEp A good night’s rest requires your environment to be free from noise, bright lights, clutter and most importantly; a good, solid mattress. We researched why sleep is important on the website www.webmd.com and found that most doctors recommend you try to build a sleep routine. here is A lisT of Their suGGesTions: h 1. Switch off television/laptop/cell phone. Light emitting from your cell phone, digital clock or the television may interfere with your sleep. 2. Avo A id naps too late in the day. A nap within a few hours of your bedtime will sabotage a good night’s sleep. 3. Tr T y a leg pillow. If a mild pain in your lower back keeps you awake, a pillow between legs helps for better alignment of the hips and reduced stress on your back. 4. Tr T ain yourself. To sleep and wake up at the same time everyday including weekends. This keeps your brain and body on a healthy sleep cycle. 5. Av A oid heavy meals after your normal dinner time. It taxes the digestive system and makes it harder to get a high quality sleep.

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MAttrEss MADnEss It is imperative that you sleep on a good mattress so that you wake up refreshed, relaxed and energized. In fact, before purchasing a new mattress do your homework in the store. Try out the mattress for 15 to 30 minutes before purchasing! We are not kidding. An average mattress lasts for five to seven years, so research and trial is essential – after all, you spend one third of your life in bed. The right mattress will have proper cushion and recoil construction, will distribute your weight in an even manner and provide your back, legs and neck with firm support. This way you won’t wake up sore. A ex MATTress: WhAT AT A is The DifferenCe? Coil AT Coil vs. lAT mattresses are durable and extremely popular, as they are affordable. What is important is coil count: a higher coil count of 1024 Bonnell springs means the mattress is sturdier and distributes the body weight evenly. In comparison, a latex mattress acts like memory foam and adjusts easily to the shape of your body, giving you comfort without moving when you or your partner shift during the night.

Where To buY A GooD MATTress: ABODE went to the mattress experts at King Koil on Salwa road. They have been in Doha for almost 20 years. They have mattresses made of natural latex and coils, in three levels of firmness: soft, medium and hard.

sHEEts 101

BEst cHOicEs

The material your sheets are made of will also make a difference in the way you feel when you wake up in the morning. Thread count is the key!

Egyptian Cotton. (300-600 Thread Count) Known for having extra long fibers, Egyptian Cotton is soft, machine washable, fade resistant and comfortable. Sheets sets will last for many years. The higher the thread count, the softer and more luxurious the sheets will feel. Egyptian Cotton sheets are widely recognized as some of the best available.

What is Thread Count? The number of threads per square inch determines the thread count of your chosen sheets. A high thread count results in softer and durable fabric, whereas a lower count fades quickly. Of course, higher thread count means you can expect to pay more than for regular cotton sheets.

Silk. The epitome of comfort and luxury. This fabric is responsive to your body temperature – cool in summer and warm in winter. Silk sheets are breathable, insulating and hypo-allergenic However, they require delicate handling to make them last longer or the colours will fade. Percale Sheets. These sheets are crisp, firm and smooth. They are of medium weight, wash well, and are very affordable. Percale is smooth, flat, closely woven and combed fabric that comes in 50/50 cotton/poly blends. The tightly woven yarns are excellent for waterbed sheets and younger children. These sheets need to be laundered before they are used so they are softer.

tHE BEst sHEE HEEts in tOwn:

Silk –available at Cashmere Trading, next to BHS on C Ring Road.

300-600 count e egggyptian yptian Cotton – available at TH THe e One (left) and Salam Stores.

Percale Cotton available at KAS Australia at Landmark Mall.

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estate

Photography BY Mikhail Quijano

The Bilal Westbay Lagoon Villa is nestled alongside private beaches and boasts of excellent views every morning, a peaceful haven away from the bustling streets of Doha in addition to amenities like 24-hour security, private swimming pools and multi-purpose sports courts.

inding accomodation that fits your lifestyle needs along with providing an ample amount of space for your children and family without compromising on amenties can be a tough task. Location, amenities, facilities and security staff become extremely important factors, especially, if a villa is what you are looking for. ABODE teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research led us to the Bilal Westbay Lagoon Villas, located within driving distance of entertainment hubs like City Centre and Landmark Mall and equally close to the green outdoors of the Doha Golf Club. A close inspection of the property revealed luxurious, spacious villas. Home to many CEOs and general managers, the Westbay Lagoon compound has always been the most prestigious compound in Doha. These villas are tailor-made if you live in the city yet value your privacy and love extended spaces. Your family can enjoy secluded private beaches, lush green landscaped gardens or beat the heat by taking a dip in the private swimming pool. Each villa offers wide open living areas with ample space for large families and a grand lifestyle. The several sitting areas, each with its own decor, are a great venue for entertaining guests. Each villa houses five en suite bedrooms with private balconies in some.

Relax & Rejuvenate. Take a walk along the clean beach on a balmy summer afternoon or a cool dip in the swimming pool.

40 ABODE AUGUSTâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;SEPTEMBER 2011

You can enjoy the views of of turquoise waters from the comfort of your home. The villa is naturally sun bright all year around. These are the highlights:

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Living Area. Natural light filters through the windows all year round lighting up the interiors, but the heat doesn’t permeate through. The décor comes as a marvelous contrast to add a zing effect of the simple interiors.

Staircase. The wide staircase effectively separates the boisterous living area from the seclusion of the private family area. An additional living area has been built so that your children may play or study without interrupting a grand dinner in progress.

Amenities. Relax and let the children discover their own favourite spots. The 24-hour security will ensure your family is taken care of.

Dining Area. The living and the dining area are located within a few steps of each other without compromising on the space. You find the kitchen located close for convenience of the master chef of the house.

Bedroom. You wake up to green gardens and blue waters each morning! Each villa fits five en suite bedrooms and are spacious so that you may fit a double or king sized bed.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 41

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garden

Summer

BLOOMS

BY MARy y SEBASTIAN

Bored of seeing barren backyards this summer? ABODE tells you what to plant to recreate the perfect backyard that’s fun, cool and colourful to look at – and all this the easy way! Come summer and the backyard garden is a mirror image of shrivel and waste! So, we leave it to wither till autumn sets in and the temperatures are cooler. After all, at 50 degrees, why bother with all the hard work if the flora is just going to fry and die! Well, that is not true. There is so much you can plant during summer, and with much less the effort. Yes, even at 50 degrees, there are blooms that would blow your socks off. And these have a timeless

Gomphrena globosa

appeal. Undemanding by their very nature of growth, all they will require from you is a little bit water, some fertilizer and soil, and lots of love, every now and then. So we at ABODE decided to do a little snooping around to see what you could grow in your backyard that was low maintenance, yet pretty at the same time. And we found lots to share:

The Bachelor Button is a very rugged looking and therefore an easy plant to look after. With very low maintenance, this bushy plant is excellent to grow on garden beds and comes in shades of white, orange, magenta, purple, violet, rose and pink, and has a prolonged cut life. Which is why it would make a great table decoration piece this summer!

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Celosia plumosa

With plumes resembling that of an ostrich, this one comes in a variety of striking colours like yellow, red, orange and even silver. The blooms have a velvety feel, and retain their colour throughout the extreme weather. They thrive well as a potted plant, but even as a border plant they bring that extra zing to the backyard.

Kochia trichophylla

An excellent foliage plant, they grow symmetrically, almost round and can grow up to 90 cm tall. Starting off as a green shrub, they slowly turn bright red as they mature, almost like a burning bush, and look striking if they are planted as a hedge or along paths. You can also plant them in pots (mind you, it’s one pot per plant!) and even use them as ornamental figurines around your garden.

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Vinca

Portulaca grandiflora

Moss Rose is a flowering plant with fleshy leaves, with blooms in brilliant hues of purple, salmon pink, lavender and scarlet. The flowers open in the morning and close at noon. Because of the trailing habit of this plant, Moss Rose is an excellent choice for ground cover and edging along paths.

Periwinkle is a weed by nature. They grow fast and spread in a jiffy. Weed or not, the alkaloids it produces, vincristine and vinblastine, have been known to be used in cancer medication. The clear flower colours and glossy leaves give the garden a much-needed energizing uplift for summer. And if you are in the mood for some flower decoration, the periwinkle is an excellent choice to go in baskets.

Zinnia elegans

If you ask for Zinnia, you will find dozens of varieties of the same species. Reason? They are easy to grow, breeding is uncomplicated and maintaining them is a piece of cake. They grow throughout the year and almost defy the summer heat by going full bloom in colours that will give your garden the look of a flamboyant canvas. Edging or bedding, the Zinnia will jazz up your garden anyway and put summer to shame!

By ERIC MOORE

• For soil, always use a mix of coconut husk, peat moss, perlite, sand and potting soil. This combination helps save water by retaining moisture, maintains colour, lasts longer and has high air porosity.

• A well-drained turf ensures green and bloom throughout the scorching summer. So make sure to water your plants every day. • Continue to pinch back all late summer and fall perennials to keep them bushy and healthy and to stagger blooming times.

(All the above plants are available at The Garden nursery on Salwa road, behind the Vegetable and Fruit Souq).

GArDEninG in tHE MiDDlE EAst

Tips to keep them bloomin’

• Use organic fertilizers such as the Al Reef fertilizer (available in all leading nurseries in Doha). Apply it once every two weeks.

There are other green varieties that don’t bloom but survive and thrive in the summer heat. Plants like the outdoor Cycus Palm Bush and the Agave Americana can be used as ornamental standalone foliage and will give your garden a complete makeover. And if you like creepers, go all out for eternal summer creeper bougainvillea and give those boring fence panels some life!

• And most important of all, if you are going on holiday, either get a neighbour to water your house plants, hanging baskets and patio planters; or alternatively put all of your plants including house plants on the patio or lawn, put the lawn sprinkler between them and connect the hose to an outside tap using a water timer. Set the timer to come on twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening – 10 minutes each time should be sufficient.

This is a professional horticulturist’s gift to an amateur gardener who’d like to create the perfect backyard. Written in the style of the Dummies’ Guide, American author Eric Moore offers a multitude of tips and solutions for successful gardening. He makes no presumptions on behalf of his readers and uses his years of experience in landscaping and garden nursery operations in the Middle East to offer useful information in a clear, simple and practical manner. He also offers a bonus section of plant encyclopedia. The book is available at the Virgin Megastore for QR 180.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 43

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Welcoming

Ramadan to your Home

Opulence may be the perfect paradox to asceticism. But during Ramadan, both go hand in hand as colourful and splendid tents surface all around Qatar to mark the holiest and most austere month of the Muslim year. These tents house beautifully handcrafted furniture and showpieces that highlight Arabic tradition in full glory. ABODE offers its deepest tribute to Ramadan and tips to create the Ramadan look at your home for this holy month.

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Another distinctive feature of Ramadan is the seating, also traditionally known as Jalsa. From simple and elegant divan-styled arrangements to opulent cathedra-fashioned armchairs, the Jalsa is a common fixture in every Kheima.

GET THE RAMADAN LOOK: The traditional Kheima or Arabic tent is very commonly associated with Ramadan. The distinctive fabric patterns reflect the mood of the season. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to go more flamboyant with the Ramadan flavours, buy the fabric and cut it up to create a Ramadan table cloth or create little napkins to set the traditional gold studded, ornate tawila (table).

The Ramadan tent is not only a splash of colour but is also inherent of the aroma of the bukhoor, which is why a Madkkan (incense holder) is an absolute must to embellish the tent. Bukhoor is a mixture of scents and that looks like round pieces of coal. It costs only between QR 100 and QR 500 and is available in Souq Waqif. You can even go a step further and place the traditional Hawaan (spiced coffee) grinder on the side to render complete authenticity. Complete the look with the traditional ornate shisha/hookah for the perfect Arabic feast.

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Accessorize your tent with the Fanoos (the colourful Arabic lantern), Saif (Arabic swords) and traditional Arabic calligraphic paintings, a must to achieve the perfect Ramadan look.

No Ramadan Iftar or Sohour is complete without the Suleimani (Arabic red tea) or the Kahva (Arabic coffee). Use the traditional Dallah (coffee pot) or the Kezvah (tea pot) to serve the beverages in elegant finjaans (tea cups); or simply decorate the tawila with these traditional pitchers and a couple of dates platters.

The Belad Al Sham Producer is located at the Thursday Friday souq on Salwa road. For more information you can contact Abdukarim Hasan (55867526) or Ibrahim Hasan (55202772).

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outdoors

hAeniM M lArGe sliDe house King of Toys

With Ramadan tents popping up, here are picks for outdoor playhouses for the kids to enjoy their summer too!

sTeP 2 Grill AnD PlAY AY PA AY PAT ATio CAfé Toys“R”Us

CrAbbie sAnDbox, Toys“R”Us

46 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

ToDDlers’ inDoor/ouTDoor bAsKeTbAll seT Toys4me

sTeP 2 WooDen PAT PA ATio seT WiTh four sTools AnD uMbrellA Toys“R”Us

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outdoors

MY Y CAsTle seT King of Toys

WooDen sAv AvA Av vAnnAh PlAYhouse ouse Toys“R”Us

hAeniM PlAY A house AY WiTh sliDe King of Toys

noTe for PA P renTs Though most of these are made out of durable double wall plastic, they still need to be kept under shade to prevent wear and tear from the extremely hot weather. Parents also need to exercise caution while determining play times for their children. It would be advisable to avoid the hot afternoons and play outdoors early evenings to prevent them from suffering heat stress/ stroke, a common condition in this region. f irYTAl fA le PlAYhouse ouse Toys4me

For pricing and more information on the listed toys, contact: Toys“r”us (Al Sadd Street) Tel: 4443-5904

Wel WelCoMe hoMe PlAYhouse Pl ouse Toys“R”Us

Toys4me (Villaggio Mall) Tel: 4414-4937 King of Toys (near Jaidah Flyover) Tel: 4432-4935

forTress ess PlAY Pl AY A se eT King of Toys

nT of sAnD ToYs AssorTMen PlAY A seTs WiT AY Th GiDDY CArTs, sAnD PA PAils AnD Gloves (all items sold separately) Toys“R”Us

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 47

ABODEfood&entertainment

55 60 64

On The Table, An Arabic Feast

Mediterranean Tales The Beauty Of Simplicity

Four Seasons Hotel Doha lays out the perfect Ramadan feast.

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Create the perfect Arabic flavour with these six delectable recipes that will be the highlight of your grand Ramadan feast prepared by sous chef George nikola and restaurant chef Robert Meyer from Four Seasons Hotel Doha.

BRAISED LAMB SHANKS with COUSCOUS and SAFFRON VEGETABLE TAGINE

SINGARY-STYLE FISH with EGYPTIAN RICE

TRIO of MEZZE ARABIC SWEETS

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FOOD

on the table

Egyptian Seafood Rice inGreDienTs: RED FISH STOCK BASIC  30 g ghee  250 g red onion, cubed

Trio of Mezze HUMMUS  250 g chick peas, large, soaked in cold water for 24 hours  4 g baking soda  100 g tahina  4 g lemon salt  5 g olive oil  4 g corn oil  4 g salt  25 g Ice, crushed  15 g water, cold

TABBOULEH  140 g parsley, chopped only leaves  80 g white onion, chopped

 75 g leek, cubed  200 g celery, cubed PrePArATion: • Cook the soaked chick peas with the baking soda until soft. Do not add any salt.

 50 g carrots, grated julienne

• Add the salt and lemon salt and check for seasoning.  140 g lemon juice  60 g olive oil  20 g Bourghul

• Mix all ingredients together.

 6 g salt

• Check for seasoning.

PrePArATion:

 150 g yogurt, plain

• Grill the whole eggplant until skin outside is black and inside is soft. A burnt smell is desirable.

 10 g lemon salt

• Remove the skin and seeds.

 10 g salt

• Mince the remaining pulp with a knife.

 16 g olive oil, extra virgin  5 g garlic  Water or ice to adjust depending on wetness of eggplant

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 400 g water

• Blend the cold cooked chick peas in a food processor adding the oil, ice and tahina until creamy.

 200 g fresh tomatoes chopped

 400 g tahina

 45 g tomato paste EGYPTIAN RED SEAFOOD RICE BASIC

PrePArATion:

 1000 g eggplant round large

 500 g fish bones

• When soft, strain and rinse thoroughly until the baking soda is washed off. Chill.

 10 g fresh chopped mint

MOUTABAL

 8 g garlic, peeled

• Place in a bowl and add the remaining ingredients. • Mix well and check for seasoning.

 450 g Egyptian rice  35 g ghee  10 g dill, chopped  400 g Red fish stock basic PrePArATion: • Heat the ghee ad sauté onion, carrot, leek, celery, garlic until aromatic. • Add tomato paste. Stir well and then add fish bones and water. Bring to a boil and simmer about one hour. • Strain and set aside, ready to use. • Heat the ghee and add rice. Stir well until it becomes hot and add red fish stock. • Add the carrot and dill on the top. Cover with foil. Cook with slow fire around 40 minutes. • When the rice is cooked remove pot from the fire, stir from the bottom, cover the pot and let stand for 15 minutes before use.

FOOD

on the table

Egyptian Seafood Ragout inGreDienTs:  35 g ghee  90 g calamari, cubs  90 g octopus, cubes  20 g garlic, chopped  15 g carrots, fine julienned  2 g turmeric  2 g curry powder  1 g cumin powder  1 g salt  Pepper, white powder PrePArATion: • In a pan, heat ghee and sauté the garlic. Heat up until aromatic. • Add seafood and carrots, stirring well and season with all spices. • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper and set aside.

Singary Style Stuffed Fish inGreDienTs:

SEAFOOD FOR STUFFING

 400 g seabass, fillet

 15 g shrimp tails, peeled, diced

 2 g lemon wedges

 15 g calamari or cuttle fish, fine julienned, 3 cm maximum

 2 g pepper, black, freshly ground  2 g salt  2 g garlic TOMATO SALSA CRUDO  100 g tomato pulp, roughly grated

for GArnish: • 4 each coriander sprig • 4 each lemon wedges

 10 g red onion, grated

• 5 g olive oil, extra virgin to drizzling over the salsa

 10 g parsley, chopped

• 50 g Egyptian butter rice

 6 g coriander seed, ground

• 100 g Egyptian seafood rice

 40 g olive oil

• 50 g Seafood ragout for rice

 5 g salt  1 g black pepper, crushed  2 g cumin powder  20 g lemon juice  0.5 g chili powder

PrePArATion: • Marinate the fish with fresh squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper and garlic. • Sear the skin side of the fish in a hot pan with oil and remove from the fire.

Arrange the seafood on the top facing exposed meat side of the fillet neatly. Add the topping of oriental tomato salsa. Drizzle olive oil over the top and put the fish set up under broiler heat from the top to gratin and cook. If the tomato toppings becomes to dark before the seafood is cooked, then remove from the broiler and place in a normal oven. • For the rice, find a suitable bowl to layer the rice. Add in the seafood ragout first and then a layer of seafood rice. Pack it nicely. • Add the white butter rice ensuring that from the side the white stripe can be seen. • Finally add the seafood rice on top which will ultimately be the bottom layer. Turn over the mold and set the layered rice. • Place the cooked fish next to the rice and garnish with the lemon wedge on the side and coriander sprig on top. (Serves 4)

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on the table

Couscous inGreDienTs:  200 g couscous  20 g olive oil  Salt and freshly ground black pepper  Boiling water, as needed PrePArATion: • Place the couscous in a dish. Pour oil on top, then add boiling water until the couscous is covered. • Wrap the dish with plastic wrap and let rest for about 10 minutes. • Uncover, season with salt and pepper and use a fork to fluff the couscous.

Saffron Vegetable Tagine inGreDienTs:

Braised Lamb Shank inGreDienTs:  1.2 kg lamb shank with bone (each 300 g)  150 g yogurt  40 g kabsa spices  120 g onion, cubed  120 g carrot, cubed  80 g leeks, cubed  20 g garlic, chopped  Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste  Beef stock or water, as needed  Dried apricots and prunes, to garnish PrePArATion: • Season the lamb shank with salt and pepper. • Mix the yogurt with the kabsa spices and marinate the lamb shank with the yogurt mixture for at least four hours.

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• Place the vegetables in an ovenproof dish and the marinated lamb shank on top. • Pour water or stock in the dish until the vegetables are covered. • Preheat the oven at a temperature of 180 C. Place the dish in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the outside of the lamb is browned. • Place lid on top of the oven proof dish and cook for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the meat is soft. To serve: • Place lace the couscous in a tagine and arrange the lamb shank on top. • Garnish with some vegetables from the tagine and serve the remaining vegetables on the side, topped with the caramelized onion-raisin mixture.

 500 ml vegetable stock  40 g yellow bell pepper, cubed  40 g red bell pepper, cubed  60 g egg plant, cubed  60 g zucchini, cubed  60 g carrot, cubed  60 g chick peas, cooked  A pinch of saffron  Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste for GArnish: • 40 g icing sugar • 2 g cinnamon powder • 80 g onion, sliced • 40 g raisins • oil, as needed PrePArATion: • Bring the vegetable stock to a boil. Add the saffron and basic seasoning.

• Lamb shank on top.

• Add all vegetables and the raisins. Cook until soft. Season to taste.

• Pour water or stock in the dish until the vegetables are covered.

• Caramelize the onion with the icing sugar, raisin and cinnamon in oil.

FOOD

Ameraldin Pudding INGREDIENTS:  300 ml water  200 ml orange juice  80 g sugar  120 g apricot paste  35 g corn flour PREPARATION: • Place the water, orange juice, sugar and apricot paste in a pot and bring to a boil. • Prepare slurry by mixing the corn starch with little cold water. • Pour the slurry in the boiling mixture constantly whisking to prevent lumps. • Bring to a boil and pour the mixture in desired bowl. • Cool down in the fridge before serving.

on the table

Date Mammoul

• Roll out the dough to 1 cm thickness rectangular sheet. Cut into half.

INGREDIENTS:

• Place half of the dough sheet on a baking tray with baking paper.

 100 g butter, cubed  50 g icing sugar  100 g semolina  75 g flour  2 g baking powder  1 egg, whole  100 g date paste  25 g ghee  As needed egg wash PREPARATION: • Mix the butter and the icing sugar in a dough mixer. • Add the semolina, flour and baking powder and mix until smooth. • Add the egg and mix until incorporated.

• In a separate bowl mix the date paste with the ghee until soft. Roll out into a rectangular sheet with the same size of the half dough sheet. • Place the date paste on top of the dough sheet then top with the second dough sheet. • Brush some egg wash on top of the dough. • Preheat the oven at a temperature of 180 C. Bake for 25 minutes until cooked through. • Heat up some sugar syrup and brush on top of the hot baked mammoul. • When cold, cut into 2 cm by 2 cm squares and serve. • Makes around 25 pieces.

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feature

Mediterranean

Tales

By Nitya Shukla Photography Mikhail Quijano

Aurelien Lagorsse, Chef De Cuisine, brings his expertise in the Mediterranean cuisine to Le Central restaurant, after having trained in the kitchens of famed French Chef Catherine Guerraz.

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iven his experience one would presume that Chef Lagorsse would have learnt all that he needs to know. Not only did he work for two years in Chef Catherine Guerraz’s Mediterranean restaurant in Paris, he was also the head chef when she opened the Le Talleyrand restaurant in Beirut, Lebanon. Recounting his experiences he says “I was 19 years old when I started as a commis chef in the L’hotel de France by Andre Daguin in Auch (France) which had also earned two Michelin stars. It was a great experience for me.” However, there is none of the stereotypical ego. Instead he suggests that a chef has to keep an open mind every time he walks into a kitchen. In today’s culinary landscape the chef is not someone who simply cooks. For him, a chef is like an artist who has to work with key elements like design, taste and the presentation each time he plates a meal. Interaction with guests, understanding their tastes and getting feedback is important as well. Perhaps, this is why the Mediterranean menu at Le Central is such a big draw. Combining a great selection from the best elements of the classic Mediterranean cuisine in an a la carte menu and an antipasto station - along with an expansive salad bar for the vegetarians - Le Central offers an ambience bursting with flavours. The antipasto station houses more than 25 appetizers and at the fresh seafood market, one can choose a whole fish and can request the chef to prepare it to their tastes. The elegant interiors create a great venue for private or business meals. Fish lovers can try the Bouillabaisse or a La Cassolette de Dorade Shrimp and Scallops au Saffron and Coconut Milk. Alternately, meat lovers can devour the Wagyu Beef or the mix grill served in Lebanese style. The salad bar is a must try for everyone. As the topic veers towards the finer nuances of Mediterranean cuisine, Lagorsse explains that the use of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, star anise,

basil, cilantro, parsley, mint, dill, fennel, and oregano give flavour and colour to the dishes and are central to Mediterranean cooking. Free of complicated sauces, heavy cream or butter, this cuisine is known for being robust and clean. The use of fresh herbs and vegetables enhances the taste. Seafood is of course, at the core of the cuisine. La Central offers a great selection of different kinds of fishes. As a French national, the love for Mediterranean cuisine came early for Chef Lagorsse. “From the age of seven I wanted to be chef. I spent my holidays in a small village next to Cahorsl (southwest France) in the house of my grandparents.

“Have the patience to learn how to cook, listen to advice and share your knowledge have the passion to cook with love.” We used to always go to the ‘marché’ with my grandmother, and then she would cook I helped her every day.” He studied in two schools – Les Charmilles (Chateauroux) for three years, and then at the Lycee Hotelier de Blois, where he studied to be a pastry chef for restaurants. Recalling his best lesson learnt when it came to cooking he says, “I learnt to respect the products, patience and the love of work well done.” And now with over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he advises passion along with the patience to learn are necessary when it comes to cooking. “Have the patience to learn how to cook, listen to advice and share your knowledge...have the passion to cook with love.” • »In consideration of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Le Central restaurant will be offering breakfast, lunch and dinner along with additional items from international cuisines including Lebanese cuisine. However, the Business Lunch Formula and the Sea Food market will be unavailable.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 61

FOOD

chef recommends

TOMATO CONFiT TiRAMiSu Mimicking the famous Italian Tiramisu, the Tomato Confit Tiramisu is a special creation with layers of cherry tomatoes and tomato confit, Mascarpone cheese and grated Parmesan.

inGreDienTs 100 g Mascarpone cheese 25 g Parmesan (grated) 15 ml cream 25 g cherry tomato (cubed) 10 g tomato confit (cubed) 5 g chives (chopped) 4 or 5 pcs toasted bread 5 ml balsamic vinegar 5 ml olive oil paprika powder (for decoration) Salt and pepper

62 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

PrePA P rAT PA A ion AT

» Mix the mascarpone cheese, parmesan, cream, salt and pepper. Put it in a piping bag. » Mix cherry tomato, tomato confit, chive, salt, pepper and olive oil.

» Toast the sliced bread. Add balsamic vinegar and olive oil. » In a wine glass of choice, put the layer of tomato in the glass and layer of cheese, then add toasted bread and again layer the tomato then finish with cheese.

» Finish with a sprinkle of paprika powder on the top. » For garnish, cook sea bass in olive oil and boil mini

vegetables. Serve on plate.

FOOD

feature

he first thing that strikes you as you walk into the Wok Mee Noodle House is that it has the aroma of an exotic cocktail with a healthy twist. There is the whiff of lemongrass, a trace of ginger and a mild scent of the ever-so refreshing coriander in the air. The fragrance is so welcoming that you flow right into the restaurant, barely noticing the simple yet stately décor. The two-toned colour palette of chocolate and cream complements the colourful South-East Asian cuisine that the Wok Mee has so thoroughly perfected. And, if you think the simplicity stops here, you might be just surprised. A paragon of humbleness and talent, Wok Mee’s unpretentious head chef Somsak Janathakhon offers the perfect balance to the Noodle House’s ambiance. With a smile that can calm even the most unnerving customer, the shy chef impresses you in a way that matters the most: through food. He may not talk much but his creations speak volumes. They speak about his origins, his love for his mother’s cooking, his passion for

Thai cuisine and the skills that he has acquired through years of meticulous training. And it is this passion and dedication that reflects in the Wok Mee palate that Doha has come to love. Says chef Janathakhon, “I try to bring out the flavour of the countries that we represent here at the Wok Mee, which is Malayasian, Thai, Indonesian, Singaporean. Whatever we present to the guest, we try to keep it as authentic as possible. So our Nasi Goreng is prepared by our Indonesian chef, and likewise!” As an outlet that serves some of the best South-East Asian dishes, Wok Mee stands unparalleled as a powerhouse of flavours. The Gong Baoji Ding, a traditional Szechuan wok-fried chicken with dried chili, cashew nut, ginger, garlic and spring onion and the wok fried beef tenderloin with capsicum and onion in black pepper sauce are some of the exclusive signature dishes that are served in this restaurant. However, maintaining this exclusivity is a challenge for the chefs that cook in Wok Mee. The reason is simple – availability of fresh ingredients. Janathakhon

The Beauty of Simplicity BY MARy SEBASTIAN PHOTOGRAPHY MIkHAIL QUIjANO

Head chef Somsak Janathakhon at Mövenpick’s Wok Mee Noodle House tells ABODE why being true to what you serve and keeping it simple is essential to achieving the perfect meal.

64 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

FOOD

feature

says: “Galangal and Lemongrass are some of my preferred herbs. But I really like coriander root. Back home, we pound the root in a mortar, as it is full of rich and strong flavours. But it is very hard, sometimes even impossible to get.” Nevertheless, variety has been the spice of Wok Mee. Menus keep changing every few months, and more signature dishes are introduced into the carte du jour to entice the already wowed customers. Chef Janathakhon’s inspiration to spin out these dishes comes from his roots and his family. “Initially, I was asked to study mechanical engineering. But my mom, who was working for an executive chef in Dubai, encouraged me to take up cooking as a profession. She put me in a restaurant, and asked me to get as much training as possible.” Since then, Janathaknon hasn’t looked back. Ten years down the lane, the 39-year old cordon bleu finds his job immensely gratifying and believes that the good comments are extremely rewarding. But the true recognition comes from his co-workers when they reveal their ambition to work alongside him in the kitchen. According to chef Janathakhon: “An Asian kitchen is like a big family. 99 percent of my staff comes to the kitchen to work by choice.” He adds that most of his staff comes from the hotel itself. Having done various jobs, they discover their passion to cook and ask to be trained by the chef himself. And mind you, life in a kitchen is not easy, due to to the long and rough hours. If you don’t like it, you won’t last. But the camaraderie in the Wok Mee kitchen is nothing short of family preparing for a huge celebratory dinner. There’s plenty of responsibility, but with it also comes the learning and the laughter. Having spent over three years in the kitchen of the Wok Mee Noodle House, Janathakhon’s midas touch is evident in the quality and essence of the dishes that are served. Taking on his mother’s recipe, chef Janathakhon played on the authentic Gaeng Om (cooked with chopped chicken, galangal, lemongrass and chilli), and dished out his own seafood version of this famous Thai curry. He now cooks this with salmon as a special dish for the Thai New Year. Yet the man is extremely humble about his contributions. With a shy smile, he says: “I just follow what my chef has taught me. I change very little in it. Only sometimes, I bring my own twist to it.” Being true to oneself is one thing, but being true to the cuisine you cook is another. Janathakhon has both, in abundance. And perhaps it is this simplicity and the authenticity of the chef’s personality that reflects in his dishes and in turn reflects in the mood of the Wok Mee. •

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 65

FOOD

chef recommends

HAiNAN CHiCKEN RiCE inGreDienTs 1 whole chicken (3.5 lbs, 1.8kg), preferably organic

PrePA P rAT PA A ion AT

Sea salt 4’’ section of fresh ginger, in 1/4’’ slices

2 stalks green onions, cut into 1” sections (both the green and white parts) 1 tsp sesame oil for The riCe

2 tbsp of chicken fat or 2 tbsp vegetable oil 3 cloves garlic, finely minced 1’’ section of ginger, finely minced 2 cups long-grain uncooked rice, washed and soaked in cool water for 10 min or longer

» »

2 cups reserved chicken poaching broth 1/2 tsp sesame oil 1 tsp sea salt for The Chili sAuCe 1 tbsp lime juice 2 tbsp reserved chicken poaching broth 2 tsp sugar 4 tbsp Jimmy’s chili sauce 4 cloves garlic

» » »

1’’ ginger Salt to taste

66 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

Clean the chicken with salt and rinse well. Stuff the chicken with the ginger slices and green onion; place it in a large stockpot, fill with cold water to cover by one inch. Bring the pot to boil over high heat; then turn down the heat and keep to simmer. Cook for 30 minutes (less if you’re using a smaller chicken). Check doneness by inserting a thermometre into the thickest part of the thigh not touching bone. It should read 80 degrees C. When the chicken is cooked through, lift and transfer it into a bath of ice water to cool. Discard the ginger and green onion. Reserve the poaching broth in the pot for your rice, your sauce, and the accompanying soup. Drain the rice. In a wok or medium sauce pan heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the minced ginger and garlic and fry without burning. Add in your drained rice; stir to coat. Cook for 2 minutes. Add the sesame oil, mix well. Add 2 cups of your reserved poaching broth to the saucepan with rice; add salt and bring to a boil. Turn down the heat to low, cover the pot. Cook for 15 minutes, remove from heat and let sit (with lid still on) for 5-10 minutes more. Remove the chicken from the ice bath. Rub the outside of the chicken with the sesame oil and carve for serving. To make the chili sauce, blend sauce ingredients in a blender until smooth and bright red. You should have six or seven cups of the reserved poaching broth left over to serve soup. Just before serving, heat up the soup, taste and season with salt as necessary. Serve the chicken rice with chili sauce, dark soy sauce, cucumber slices, and a bowl of hot broth garnished with coriander and scallions.

ABODE

70 76 78 80 82

Colour Theory Get to Know the ‘Right’ You Creative Casuals

Get Gorgeous

ABODE Loves

Colour THEORY This season, shy greys and serious blacks take a back seat as big, bold, bright colours have their day in the sun. From royal blues to mint greens, take the plunge and make a statement with a palette as happy and as fun as only summer can bring.

Photography Mikhail Quijano Model Isabella Haycock of Trinity Models-Qatar Hair Roula Rassalan of Spa Chakra Makeup Janie S. Mayandoc of MAC Styling Sydnee Bryant Interiors Forum Design Clothes courtesy of Ralph Lauren Bag courtesy of Marc Jacobs

Clothes may make the man, but lipstick makes the woman. Keep everything clean and simple, but make a statement with a shocking tangerine lip shade and a contrasting electric blue dress. Electric blue Jersey dress, Ralph Lauren.

Not yet ready to go all-out in technicolour? Keep it subdued and classic with a structured button-down dress, spiked with some hints of colourful accessories. White button-down dress, Ralph Lauren. Hot pink leather hand bag, Marc Jacobs. Mint green tank top, model’s own.

72 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

The best way to show off the colours of summer is to keep things simple. Stick to block colours to bring out the hue’s true beauty - doing so will make it easier to pair your colourful pieces with anything. Purple longsleeve shirt, Ralph Lauren for Men. Braided pashmina shawls, stylist’s own. White leggings, model’s own.

Keep your eyes open for the latest in menswear too. Your brother’s loose button shirt that he wears to his meetings might actually be the perfect colourful coverup for Friday’s brunch with the girls. Green button-down shirt, Ralph Lauren for Men. White garrison belt, stylist’s own. White leggings, model’s own.

Summer is the ultimate excuse to have fun, so go crazy and pair up all the brights that you didn’t think would go well together. Wearing contrasting colours might seem intimidating, but it’s easy as long as you play with pieces in solid hues. Blue 3/4 sleeve cardigan, Ralph Lauren. Hot pink leather bag, Marc Jacobs White leggings, shoes and mint green tank, model’s own.

FASHION

feature

Get to Know ‘Right’You the ‘Right’ COLLATED BY NITyA yA SHUkL A yA

Trying to figure out why models always look fabulous? ABODE asked Gwen Newnham, the creative director behind Qatar’s premium modeling agency Trinity Talent-Qatar, for savvy tips for looking taller, slimmer and younger all the time.

ewnham advised that the single most important secret to looking fabulous all the times is a combination of colour, design and body proportion. While colour is important, overall body proportion and the pattern of the design make a definite difference. The trick is to find the right combination of the three and you will be well dressed forever.

Gwen Newnham

Here are a few rules she advised us to follow:

Colour – which one is right for you? While most people choose to wear colours solely based on emotions and are rarely ever conscious of why they choose them, colour selection is very important to the overall image of a person. For example, ABODE recommends you to choose your garments based on your skin tone and the colour of your hair and eyes. The darker your skin tone, hair and eyes, the darker the colours you choose can be. Lighter colours look best on people with fair skin complexion. yourself, To take a quick colour test about ul.com autif go to www.colourmebe

Proportion Know your proportions. Everyone’s body is different. The lady who wears jackets is different from the one who likes to wear frills or a lacy neckline. You need to know the proportion and the design of your body before you shop. For instance, look into the mirror and ask yourself a few questions - are you square, round, angular or oval in shape? If you are wearing the wrong proportion you will be constantly pulling/tugging your outfit up or down, adjusting the shoulders.

Log on to ww w.stylemakeover-hq.com/bodyshape.html for helpful tips on body type.

Design

Plan your wardrobe in advance

Before you purchase a garment, it is important to look at its design. You need to determine if it is A-line, high waisted, short waisted, wide and flaired, narrow or tapered, pleated or fitted – you also need to see if the fabric lines run vertical or horizontal, if the print is bold or small, if the fabric is soft, silky and clingy or stiff and starched. The secret is to know what looks best on your body type – what makes you look taller, slimmer and youthful. Then you should always buy the same type of design so that you always look your best and have confidence.

The key is to have a small wardrobe but in which everything goes with each other. This way, it won’t matter if you have to get ready during a vacation or a frantic day at work with several meetings in the same day.

76 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

wHAt’s yOur fAsHiOn pErsOnAlity?

RoMAnTic, clASSicAl, cASUAl oR DRAMATic?

Knowing your fashion personality will help you avoid costly clothing mistakes. If you stay within the personality that most defines your day-to-day style you will begin to build your wardrobe with ease while saving money. You need to determine whether you are a ‘Romantic’, ‘Classical’ , ‘Casual’ or ‘Dramatic’. A ‘Classical’ person likes very traditional lines, for example Ralph Lauren or Escada. The ‘Romantics’ like ruffles and soft curves like Laura Ashely. If you like to dress in the latest fashions - haute couture, you are probably a ‘Dramatic’. A ‘Casual’ personality would probably love Lacoste or Polo tops and Guess jeans with a jacket. jac

For more information, email: contact@trinityqatar.com

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY MikHAil QuiJAnO

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to go wild with playful colours, especially for one-piece dresses in streamlined cuts such as this one from Red Valentino. It shows off your personality!

Add interesting geek-chic references to your wardrobe with unique pieces, such as this comic word-balloon bag from Moschino Cheap & Chic.

Keep flats queer and quirky with bold neon pinks and fun bows from Moschino Cheap & Chic.

FASHION

accessories

Take chic cues and preppie inspiration from the amazingly quirky world of all things artsy, geeky and creative. Mix it up with comical polka dot bags, colourful striped stilettos or patterned dresses in neon pinks and bright reds from Moschino. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official - geek is the new black! All clothes and accessories are available at Salam.

The classic LBD (Little Black Dress!) is a must-have for every girl. Keep it hip and current with interesting textures such as lace appliques and cut-outs on this Ferre Milano LBD.

Offset a formal outift and channel comic pinups with a polka-dot bag in a bold colour from Love Moschino.

echo the playfulness of your bag with an equally quirky pair of stilletos in an interesting pattern from Moschino.

FASHION

makeup

GetGORGEOUS ABODE caught up with MAC Senior makeup artist Vimi Joshi who spilled the beans on the latest must-haves of the season, the colours to wear this season and getting your hands on makeup that won’t wither in the desert sun.

“I

love the drama and attitude of AW11,” said Vimi Joshi, MAC Senior make up artist during the course of an interview. In a trend presentation MAC recently released the top looks of AW2011 along with predicting that greys, lavenders, burgundy, black and plums will be top colours if the season. What’s more, according to Joshi, if you get the right products, you can withstand the summer heat and still look and feel gorgeous. Excerpts from the interview:

ABODE: What is the favourite “evening makeup style” in Qatar? VJ: Qatari women have a strong sense of style and are very modern and glamorous. They love fashion and make up and enjoy experimenting with colours and textures. ABODE: What are the essentials for the desert weather make up? VJ: The essentials for desert weather make up are longevity and hydration. The desert heat can really dry out the skin and the make up needs to stay on all day long. The key is to ensure that women use long wearing products that can withstand the heat and humidity of the desert climate. MAC has a great range of long wearing products and new exciting products launching this fall. These products have been tested regionally and work wonders.

TIP • Must have products are: MAC Fix+, Pro Lon

g wear Foundation and Concea ler, Slashproof Lash mascara and lip conditioner SPF15.

ABODE: Why does MAC do so well in the Middle East? VJ: Middle Eastern women are definitely the most experimental and open minded when it comes to their make up. They love trying out different coloured eye liners and mascaras, using glitter eye liners and applying lashes. They also like to get creative with textures and contouring and highlighting. ABODE: How does MAC define the makeup trends in advance? VJ: MAC works backstage at over 200 fashion shows each season and we always work a season ahead. The makeup trends are defined after the Primary Fashion Weeks are over in New York, London, Milan and Paris. The MAC creative teams review the season and this is how the makeup trends are created each season.

80 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

FASHION

makeup

ABODE: How different is high fashion and run way makeup versus everyday make up? VJ: High fashion and runway makeup is created to enhance the designer’s vision of his/her collection. It’s about putting “show” into a fashion show. The makeup can be either minimal and nude or dramatic and creative. Each show has a different theme and inspiration. On the other hand, everyday makeup is much more realistic and it has to be practical based on your lifestyle. You can still take elements from the fashion show and adapt them.

TIP • Wear a strong Modern Flair colour lipstick making lips the focus of your face.

ABODE: What runway style can be adapted for everyday wear? VJ: Every woman wants to have beautiful, flawless skin and defined eyes. Make up is very personal and it’s up you on how experimental you want to be with your make up. Middle Eastern women in general are very creative with their make up and are more daring when it comes to colours and textures, even for everyday wear.

Modernist

Tough Love

Disco Tech

Amber Gris

ABODE: What will be the top makeup trends/ products this fall 2011 ? VJ: This season is all about make up that is beautiful yet with a toughness and attitude to it. The skin has a very luxurious and expensive feel to it and it should look rich, creamy and hydrated. The eyes are dramatic this season with a lot of focus on the lashes. There is also lots of texture to the makeup that will build dimension and create a more modern feel. Mattes, creams and glosses are all incorporated into the AW11 looks. The lips are strong and defined this season and there is also a celebration of colours and creativity. It’s a season to be experimental and have fun with your make up. ABODE: What do you prefer? Natural colour tones or darker shades or the more creative/eclectic style makeup? VJ: As a makeup artist, I really enjoy all aspects of make up. It depends on the direction of the make up and its relevance to the overall story, whether it be a fashion show or an editorial shoot. I really enjoy pushing creative boundaries and being experimental with colours and textures.

TIP • Top colours of the season: Greys, Lavenders,

To find out more, contact M.A.C Cosmetics - Middle East & India at (+971) 4212-3558 or visit their website at www.maccosmetics.com

Burgundy, Black and Plums.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 81

FASHION

beauty

ABODE LOVES

Summer is the perfect season to indulge our senses in rich scents and powerful colours. ABODE picks the prime products to let you revel in the season’s hottest fragrances for men, and the best in women’s scents and beauty haul.

FEEL THE SUMMER BREEZE Feel chic and sophisticated this summer with Coach’s fragrance for women. Coach Signature reminds you of being in a summer garden and is abundant of floral flavours like green mandarin, guava, violet, waterlily, honey, orange flower, mimosa and jasmine. The fragrance finishes on a note of sandalwood and amber-wood. Available at Paris Gallery {QR 390 (100ml)}

FEEL LIGHT WITH B.RIGHT! The Triple Performing Facial em e ulsion SPF 15 PA++, part of the B.right Radiant Skincare range from Benefit promises instantly bright, hydrated and youthful-looking skin with essentials that moisturize from within. The light weight, oil-free formula with a broad-spectrum blend of UVA & UVB filters protects the skin against sun damage, and has plant extracts; hyaluronic acid and vitamin e to provide antioxidant protection. Available at Faces, BHS and Sephora stores located in Villaggio and Landmark. {QR 164 (50.3ml)}

PERFECT THE SUN-KISSED LOOK WITH BOURJOIS Get the ultimate summer makeover with Bourjois’ combination glossy eye shadows and the Delice de Soleil bronzer. Available at Karisma outlets in City Centre, Villaggio and Hyatt Plaza; and in Lulu Hypermarket. Trio eye shadow set {QR 67} Delice de Soliel bronzer {QR 87}

BENEFIT YOUR TRAVEL WITH MR. BRIGHT You don’t have to worry anymore about makeup meltdown while travelling. Look fresh and inviting this summer with Benefit’s perfect travel piece, the Mr. Bright make up kit. A collection of bronzer, highlighter, liquid blush/gloss and concealer (all in one box), Mr. Bright promises the au naturale look with minimum effort, throughout the day. Available at Faces located in Villaggio and Landmark. {QR 147}

BE PHOTOREADY Revlon introduces a unique, lightweight concealer with SPF 20 that virtually erases any imperfections, all the while providing sun protection. Its photo-chromatic pigments bend, reflect and diffuse light to help erase flaws. The Revlon PhotoReady Concealer is available in shades of light, light medium and medium at Avenue, Blue Salon, Boots, City Lifestyle, Fit Well, Hameed Hamad Store, Max Retail W.L.L., ne n w World Centre and Salam. {QR 40}

82 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

FASHION

beauty

FOR A DATE A ATE NIGHT Inspired simply by water Davidoff Cool Water is an aromatic experience. The flow of amber in the bottom and long lasting watery force makes this fragrance unique and perfect for the summer. The sensual freshness sets the tone, simple, just like a first date. Available at Merch, The Mall {QR 260}

FEEL LIKE A MILLION 1 Million by Paco Rabanne opens up like a magnetic treasure trove to release a 20 ml glass bottle and electrify the scene with its vibrant trail of irresistibly fresh spicy leather. Available at Merch, The Mall {QR 330}

FOR BREEZY DAYS A AYS Gutz by Bench is a light and incredibly fresh scent that gives the final touch when going out on a sunny day. Available at Hyatt Plaza {QR 79}

ABODE 86

De-stress After Work

Juice your way to Health

Spa for Her: Say Yes to Hydro

91 92

Spa For Him: A Royal Treatment

102

Bon Voyage: Seattle, France and Sweden!

107

Readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner

108

Make Way for E

110 112

Feel the Art of Fatma Al Naimi

Try a Detox Program

114

Behind The Wheels: Porsche, Captiva & Acadia

Spending your Holidays in Qatar

122

Tech Support

124

Horoscopes

MANual: Prepare your Skin for Summer

The Need for Speed

LIFESTYLE

wellness

De-StReSS Before you Reach Home BY LAUREN PENNy, HR CONSULTANT

Work is still on your mind when you sleep at night and your family sulks every time you answer the phone but you still haven’t figured out how to switch off the work mode. ABODE enlisted advice from an HR consultant on how to de-stress after work.

e all know how unpleasant it is to leave work in a rush, practically running out to the car, quickly driving home while thoughts of the office keep going around and around in your mind. While going through your evening activities, you are distracted by a meeting you forgot to put into your diary, an action you recalled you didn’t write down, your Blackberry flicking red so you check it and spend a few moments to reply (only to quickly realize you spent 30 minutes messaging). You’re in constant flight mode from work through out the evening and even thoughts of work distract you as you lay down to go to sleep. Allowing time for your mind to transition from work to home can reduce life’s stressors that impact your health, making you feel under par in everyday activities or that cause an imbalance in your life. Here are some techniques you can incorporate into your daily regime to calm your mind and de-stress before you reach home. • PlAn Your WeeK: Invest 30 minutes at the beginning of the week to schedule and fit in all your important activities: work hours, fitness sessions, social nights, ‘Me Night’ relationship time, kid’s activities, beauty appointments, etc. By knowing your week, you start in a calm frame of mind, as you have planned the time to fit in all the major things you want to achieve.

86 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

• PrioriTize for ToMorroW: At the end of each work day, spend A 10 minutes reviewing your current day actions: those you achieved and those you will reschedule for a new day. Re-prioritize tomorrow’s actions, adjusting timing and priorities where required. This will enable you to leave your work mind at work and reduce the times of remembering actions at home that will distract you. If while driving home you remember an action you hadn’t noted down, make a quick note in your schedule or create a meeting note in your phone for the morning. • exerCise: Exercise improves your mood and energy level. Investing in 30 minutes of physical exercise can help you to calm down from the stresses of the day. Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that leave you feeling happier and more relaxed than when you have left the office. You will also increase oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and activate your entire cardiovascular system which will give you more energy after your workout for the things you enjoy. With regular exercise, you will also boost your confidence and improve your selfesteem. Take a brisk walk along the corniche, at Aspire park or the gym. Go straight from work so you reduce distractions that quite often occur once you arrive home. When I lived in London, I even carried my gym bag

to work on the train and Tube every day despite the gym being just a five minute walk from my house. I knew that if I went home I would most likely be distracted by friends and evening activities. You also burn calories when exercising that can lead to weight loss. Need I say more? • sToP AT Your ur f fA AvouriTe Av relAxAT A ion PlACe for 15 AT MinuTes: Stop, breathe, notice your breath and relax. Try to choose a place around water which can re-balance and calm the mind. If a work action is recalled, note it in your schedule for tomorrow and return to your breath and relax. • Turn Your WorK Mobile/ blACKberrY off: That’s right, turn it off. Unless your’e on-call or expecting a call, turn it off. This will allow your brain to register that you are now in “home mode.” I have kept my phones separate, so the work Blackberry would be turned off after hours so I’m not distracted by incoming work emails. • seT reGulAr TiMe WiTh Your f MilY fA l AnD KiDs When You lY Arrive hoMe: Sit together at the table or suitable place for a calming tea and a juice for the kids. Your session can be for as little as 10 minutes. Be sure to turn off any distracting noise, like the TV. This will allow all of you to calm from the activities of the day, relax and tune into each other before the evening activities begin. • PlAY A MusiC in The CAr: Bop AY away to your favourite tunes and sing! Find fun ways to move into your groove before you get home. Enjoy this moment as a gift to yourself for effectively transitioning your busy mind from work-mode to home-mode. Working out your best method to destress is a key way to create a balanced life, greater health, self-respect and optimum performance. • Find out more on how to cope with work-life balance. Contact Lauren on laurenpennyconsultancy@yahoo.com.

LIFESTYLE

health

Juice Your Way to Health

ABODE rEcipE: MOrninG GODDEss ingredients: 2 celery stalks 1 apple 1 beetroot, plus stalk 6 leaves of Boston lettuce ½ inch of ginger

BY MARy y SEBASTIAN

Dash of lemon

FAT, SICK AND NEARLY DEAD – a documentary by Joe Cross, proves that in the battle for health your main weapon can be a juicer!

ustralian businessman Joe Cross looked in the mirror and saw a man wearing size 44 jeans whose bulging belly made it appear as if he had swallowed a whole sheep. Tired of feeling sick, weighing in at 312 lbs (141 kgs) and suffering from a rare and debilitating auto immune disease that required him to take steroids, he decided to try something different and completely change his lifestyle by changing his eating habits. He was committed to “eating food that was grown on trees or dug out of the ground, foods made by the sun, water and the earth.” And, he wanted quick results, so he decided to “drink these foods” for the first 60 days.

That meant extracting the juice, and separating the fibre from the plant. So with medical supervision, Cross decided to travel from Australia to America, with a juicer in hand and for 60 days had nothing but juice made of raw vegetables and fruits. He filmed his extraordinary journey, starting through the streets of New York and travelling the rest of the US. Needless to say, in 60 days the man lost over 100 lbs, was cured of his debilitating disease and, through the course of filming this documentary, touched the lives of thousands of people who have made processed food and sodas their staple diet.

Joe Cross’s online community Reboot Your Life (www.jointhereboot.com) provides information and facts about fruits and vegetables, general eating guidelines and a step by step process to ensure you get the most out of your juicing experience. If Cross’s story inspires you, can buy his DVD FAT, SICK AND NEARLY DEAD from Reboot Your Life for $19.99 or on his website www.fatsickandnearlydead.com for more information.

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Preparation Process the first five ingredients in a juicer/ extractor. Add lemon, and drink up for perfect cleansing.

JOE crOss spEAks tO ABODE “I was a yo-yo dieter for years. I put weight on, I lost it and I put it on again. I had been on juice fasts before. They were successful for me and I noticed a real positive impact in terms of nutritional intake and energy when I was on them. The real motivator for me this time around was getting off prescription medicines and finding relief for my rare and painful autoimmune disease that was brought on and made worse by the excess weight. For me, it was about getting healthy, living without pain and getting off prescription medicines. While juicing, your body get the vital nutrients it needs and that was an important component for me. I didn’t want to just shed weight. I wanted to gain health and wellness.”

LIFESTYLE

How to start your juice fast

EExpErt tAlk: A ABODE asked nutritionist Gloria Duran-Renderos, BSc. MPH, for her tips on obtaining maximum results from a juicing detox diet.

Buy A BOOk!

GinGEr DEliGHt ingredients: 1 oz fresh ginger 1 oz lemongrass 1 oz chilled fresh apple juice 15 oz fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp honey Preparation Process the ginger and lemongrass in a juicer and add apple juice. Mix lemon juice with honey. Blend everything together and add crushed ice. Serve in a hurricane glass, with a slice of lemon on the side. Courtesy: Movenpick Towers and suites

In his book Juice Fasting and Detoxification, author Steve ‘Sproutman’ Meyerowitz says that nothing is more nutritious than juice. Writing at length about the effect of juicing, Meyerowitz adds that the human body assimilates 99% of the food value of vital foods like raw vegetables and fruits if they are consumed as liquids. For example, it takes a pound of carrots to make a ten-ounce drink of carrot juice. Consuming them as a solid would be a nearly impossible task. Juice it instead, and you would have a light and delicious meal packed with all the enzymes, water, soluble vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Cross achieved so much from juicing that food as we know became irrelevant. When you add ample exercise to juicing, you are well on your way towards a longer and healthier life. •

finD Out MOrE To read more about Meyerowitz’s juice programme and get some very unique recipes, visit his website at www.sproutman.com.

health

The healthiest juices are mixtures of vegetables and fruits.

Juicing is not as easy as it looks. When you decide to do juicing for a week, make sure you have been advised by a nutritionist on the amount of calories you will need every day. You must also choose vegetables and fruits that have a good mixture of vitamins, minerals, and a sugar content higher in fructose rather than sucrose.

Take care of your protein needs by adding a protein powder, at least in the morning, and another at the evening time. To know how much protein you need, multiply your body weight in kilograms by 0.8 g. Divide that amount either in two or three portions.

Drink at least 14 cups of water (240 cc each).

Do not juice when you are overworking.

I have used juicing for many years as a way to rest my body functions for a few days. After a week, I feel clean, full of vitality and ready to begin to eat a mixed diet without too many grams of fat, protein and empty sugars. Gloria is a certified nutrionist and the owner of the Doña Tinita 100% Natural Foods.

pOwEr JuicEr: With a quality juicing machine, getting the full benefit out of your vitals foods isn’t a distant dream at all! Most of the electronic consumer outlets in Doha like Emax and Mannai offer a variety of juicers. Both the outlets sell quality, high-end juicers from Philips, Kenwood, Moulinex, Hometech and Midea, with prices ranging from QR 79 – QR 430. ABODE brings you a collection of juicers to kick start your detox diet.

Midea Juicer/Extractor Model No: MJ-70JE01A Available at: EMAX (Al Asmakh Mall)

Philips Juicer/Extractor Model No: 1858 Available at: EMax (Al Asmakh Mall)

Moulinex Juicer/Extractor Model No: JU650G Available at: Mannai showroom, Ramada Signal

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 89

LIFESTYLE

spa

SayYes to Hydro By Nitya Shukla

Escape to the cool chambers of Angsana Spa and immerse yourself in their special Hydrotherapy treatment. You will be amazingly energized and invigorated.

Therapeutic foot spa: The first step entails dipping your feet into a mini tub with bubbling water that has an instantaneous soothing effect. Tropical Storm Shower: A warm mist - infused shower with essential oil essences warms your body. The mist will transform into light sprinkles before changing pace to resemble a typical tropical shower. Sauna: After having experienced the cooling showers, the sauna with it its high temperatures will instantly boost your circulation. Ice Fountain: From the heat in the sauna, you will be given an invigorating rub with freshly shaved ice. This step is a great cellulite reducer. Rub away! Bucker Drench Shower: Enlivened and cool from the ice, the Bucker Drench Shower, closes the pores and improves the tone and clarity of the skin. Spring Shower: After this energizing experience, this delicate shower allows you to calm down. Thunderstorm Shower: This intense rain experience is mood lifter with added essential oils, light and sound effects infused into the shower stall. Cool Mist shower: The subsequent chamber is a Cool Mist shower, which is a subtle follower to the earlier step. Steam Essence: High humidity and the therapeutic aromas stimulate blood circulation again.

What is Hydrotherapy? Hydrotherapy is a series of hot and cold treatments, which results in improving blood circulation, energizing the body, refreshing the mind, and eliminating impurities in the body that have gathered over time. The Angsana spa’s Hydro & Spa Essence begins with a rejuvenating foot spa and culminating in a relaxing sensory mud spa while detoxing the entire body. What to bring? All you need is a swimsuit as everything else will be provided. What does it consist of: Like circuit training, you will experience a series of 10 treatments designed to target specific areas of the body parts and facilitate overall well being.

90 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

Pelotherapy Chamber: Last, but not the least, the hydrotherapy session concluded in a pre-heated pelotherapy chamber. Here therapeutic mud is applied to your body and washed off with a light sprinkling shower. The second part of the treatment consists of a combination of Swedish and Thai massage (you can choose another to suit your needs. While the hydrotherapy revives and refreshes the body, the massage of an expert hand with mid pressure does miracles to relieve the pressure on tired shoulders and back. As a reward, you will receive a cup of the most delicious ginger and honey tea you have ever tasted. • The Hydrotherapy session at the Angsana Spa comes as a 150 minute session priced at QR 600. If you want an extended version, you can try for the deluxe session which comes as a 180 minute session priced at QR 765.

LIFESTYLE

Royal

Treatment BY jORGE GRANDA

Entice the man in your life to spend a few hours basking in a spa fit for a king. Traditional Hamman and Holistic Massage are ABODE’s choices for lifting any guy’s spirit.

f you have not visited the Six Senses Spa at the Sharq Village Hotel and Spa, you don’t know what you are missing. The spa will give the feeling that you are traveling back in time to the Ottoman period and visiting one the Sultan’s most luxurious palaces. In fact, the meticulous interior design and architecture of the entire hotel and spa is extraordinarily authentic. ABODE considers this spa one of the manliest in town, as the whole set up almost looks like an Indiana Jones movie set with its maze-like layout all wrapped up in a peaceful and secluded environment. Upon arrival at the spa, you will be allowed to choose from a menu of tailored spa packages. The spa is divided into both female and male sides – so men are treated separately without having to worry. Men are escorted to their room by a spa representative.

mud to your head and a specially prepared black Moroccan body wash all over your body for about 10 minutes. You can feel the steam by your feet and how it slowly moves up to the rest of your body. Afterwards, he will rinse off all the products from your body and hair. You will then proceed to the marble wet bed where your entire body is rubbed again with the black Morrocan product applied with loofah mittens. While lying on the bed, the therapist (using a hose) washes off the product, then gives you a foam bath. After the rinsing, you are exfoliated from head to

spa

toe. Your hair is washed once more and then you have the chance to go into the shower to remove any residuals. The Traditional Hamman can only be described as the ultimate pampering experience worthy of a true king. Benefits: The treatment helps the body get rid of the dead skin cells while it relaxes your muscles and smooth and soften your skin. Duration: 45 minutes Things to bring with you: You can bring your swimming trunks; however, everything is provided ( even small disposable underwear) Price: QR 730 HOLISTIC MASSAGE This massage is not a deep massage. However, it is great for stress relief and relaxation. The massage therapist applies soft pressure and slow movements all over your body paying special attention to your problem areas that may be prone to tension and muscle fatigue due to stress or other problems. The experience is blissful. Benefits: Relaxes and calms your body in addition to help helping in increase blood circulation. Price: QR 480 Duration: 50 minutes BEST GIFT FOR A MAN THIS SUMMER

BE TREATED LIkE kING Hamman Treatment: This treatment is a royal bath given to you by a professional hamman expert. It starts when you enter the hamman room, which features a heated marble wet bed, a mini bath/ sauna, soft tunes playing and steam coming from the floor. The hamman expert will escort you to the small bath, sauna to proceed with the first cleansing. While seated inside, he will apply scalp

You can bring your swimming trunks, however, everything is provided ( even small disposable underwear) For more information, call 44256999/6990 or visit www.sixsenses.com

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 91

ABODE

MANual

Prepare

Your Skin for

Summer

By Jorge Granda

The sun is one of the major causes of premature aging of the skin in men and women. However, what is lesser known is that men usually have the tendency to get more skin damage to women. ABODE tells you the treatments available especially for men to protect their skin during the dry season. Silkor Medical Center Silkor is a medical center that recently opened its doors in Doha. The centre has designed several skin treatments focused towards men. The highly specialized staff can help male clients fight against the damaging effects of the sun while preparing their skin for a long healthy life and gaining a youthful look. It is extremely important for men to understand that taking care of their skin is a preventive measure that will produce significant results and will reverse the sign of aging in the long run. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, it also helps to reduce the chances of developing skin cancer. Here is a list of treatments available at Silkor that can be tried, even as the summer sun peaks.

Eye Cool Caviar Collagen Facial Treatment: The facial is designed particularly to target dry skin through the process of hydration, helping the anti-aging process. This treatment can also be done for any type of skin revitalization. It is recommended to do this facial twice a week for a period of five weeks to achieve the best results. A caviar facial mask is used during the procedure and it comes in the form of a sheet that can be easily customized to fit the structure of the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face. During the facial the neck receives special attention as it is an area where the aging process can be seen most. Results: After this nourishing treatment, the client can expect to experience a radiant glow and softness. In order to maintain and preserve this treatment, Silkor provides the client with a kit of caviar serum that should be applied every night. Maintenance: The Caviar Facial is followed by maintenance of one treatment after every 15 days for a period of three months.

92 ABODE AUGUSTâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;SEPTEMBER 2011

Treatment: The eye cool treatment is aimed to treat the bags and dark circles under the eyes produced by the lack of sleep, stress, lack of vitamins and aging. The treatment minimizes the wrinkles and delays their further development. The creams used during the eye cooling treatment are highly rich in vitamins, caffeine, rosemary, and silk proteins (which help prevent darkness under eye). A massage with ice is applied to the client to promote relaxation and to help the absorption of the products and creams. The treatment should be done once or twice a week six times in order to get the desired results. Results: After the treatment, there will be an obvious change in the colour around the eyes. The size of the bags under the eyes will be diminished and will no longer be swollen. Maintenance: It is important to use the specific eye creams recommended by Silkor twice a day to maintain the results.

ABODE

MANual

Chocolate Facial Facial Detox (for men) Treatment: The Facial Detox is a trendy treatment among women and it has become popular among men as well. The treatment is more aggressive, as menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skin is thicker and more prone to oiliness. The Facial Detox gets rid of toxins that are close to the pores and that does not allow the skin to breathe, causing the wrinkles to show even more. Results: After the facial the client will have smoother, revitalized and hydrated skin. Maintenance: Facial Detox for men should be done once a week for six weeks. A facial once a month should follow for as long as the client desires. During this period the client is recommended to apply the specific day and night creams to maintain the results.

Treatment: The treatment consists of applying a rejuvenating peel off cocoa mask, which is 100 precent natural. The product utilizes multiple benefits from cocoa and algae. This facial last around one hour. in which the client will also experience several massages on the face with different creams before the therapist applies the mask. The Chocolate Facial is designed to provide the skin with a younger look and radiance. Not only the facial will benefit the skin and produce an anti aging effect, but it is also a pleasurable and relaxing experience. Results: Results can be seen right after the facial. The skin looks more fresh and relaxed. Maintenance: It is recommended to do this facial once a month.

Diamond MicroDermabrasion (DMD) Treatment: This non-surgical treatment is designed for the whitening and exfoliation of the skin. The treatment is highly efficient in removing the dead cells from skin. A real diamond studded wand is used during the procedure. The diamond gently passes over the skin utilizing a vacuum that collects all dead cells into a filter. This technique allows the patient to have a glimpse of the residue that was removed. This technique stimulates the blood circulation and also sets in motion the collagen production as well as elastin, providing a healthy glow and fresh look. Results: The results are instant in the noticeable removal of dark spots and the unifying of the complexion. The treatment also diminishes fine wrinkles and delays their development. Maintenance: The treatment is recommended to be repeated over the course of six sessions, once per week. A DMD treatment should be repeated once every month in order to maintain the revitalized and cleansed complexion.

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ABODE

health

Can’t Juice Alone?

Detox PROGRAM Try a

By MARY SEBASTIAN

People travel around the world in search of the perfect detox/de-stress package. But here’s the catch: why travel when you can detox right here? If you are not travelling soon, Doha has its fair share of detox centers that not only promise to release bundled up energy, but also offer great fitness and beauty fixes along the way.

LOSE WEIGHT LIKE A PRO • Keep a food diary/journal and jot down everything you eat. • Discuss in detail your diet plan with the dietician to ensure you are eating balanced meals. • Make breakfast a protein-rich feast to stay alert and energized throughout the day. • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day to fasten and maximize the benefits of the weight loss program.

For our readers, ABODE explored some of these centres and found the VLCC International located on the Al Waab street, their program is a provider of slimming and beauty services. Their sessions include heat therapies and lymphatic drainage massages that not only leave you refreshed but much lighter than when you first started. All programs are available for men and women.

ABODE TRIED AND TESTED

What do they do? VLCC’s highly successful slimming programmes use a scientific and holistic approach to address issues on weight management.

We recommend you try a two-month slimming package that entails: a Termoslim package, Body Therapy massages and Body firming treatments.

• You will undergo the VLCC’s detailed body analysis that will measure your fat, check your water retention, and your muscle strength. • The dietician will evaluate your body history, including any medical conditions and chart out the right slimming programme for you. • They will also put you on a diet regime that is balanced, healthy and delicious. • The weight loss package is followed by a maintenance program that will assure you keep your new found curves. • VLCC puts you through a series of intensive therapies that guarantee weight loss and maintenance, provided you stick to disciplined diet and balanced lifestyle.

94 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

• Keep your cravings in check by snacking on healthy bites like veggies, nuts or dark chocolate.

A Termoslim is a combination of massage and machine-assisted weight loss treatments using heat therapy to target specific problem areas like the waist, tummy, arms, and thighs. The effect is about the same as you would do rigorous exercise, but with none of the pain and muscle tear. The result of this intensive two-hour treatment is instantaneous. Try it and then measure yourself; you will see the difference in inches. The Body Therapy sessions were our favourite. Delivered by professional physiotherapists, Body Therapy drains excessive fat and water in a process called lymphatic drainage. The hour-long head to toe massage with anti-cellulite oils helps to tone up muscles during weight loss. As the body detoxifies, toxins are eliminated, and the skin gets an even and smooth appearance. You come out feeling rejuvenated and tension-free, almost spa-like, but with the added medical benefits. The Body Firming treatment as the name suggests, offers to tighten up loose skin that occurs when the fat between the skin and muscles is eliminated, and this is done with specialized machines.

W Doha

If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a chance to travel before the summer ends, ABODE tells you where you can find that much-needed relaxation at three of the most luxurious and elegant hotels around. The W Doha, Grand Hyatt Doha and Marriott Doha provide their guests with impeccable rooms, stylish facilities, exquisite cuisines, outstanding service and they also offer unbeatable summer promotions. BY jORGE GRANDA

Grand Hyatt, Doha

Marriott Doha

Lifestyle

staycation

New Concept The

of Luxury E

merging proudly as one of the most atractive buildings in West Bay, the W Doha Early evening TIME TO VISIT THE WOW RESTAURANT has become well-known for its hospitality, great restaurants, deluxe rooms and vibrant nightlife. ABODE was invited to experience firsthand the many qualities of THE SPICE MARKET this fashionable hotel. We started our evening at the Spice Market. We indulged in a feast of modern The W Doha is a very modern hotel, but still manages to maintain the traditional Arabic Southeast Asian food, which included look. Upon arrival one of the first things that catches your eye is the design of the lobby which is inspired by a grand Arabic Mosque. Water fixtures, ceiling-suspended chandeliers the out-of-this-world Beetroot Salad with and hanging lanterns can be spotted all around. Adding to the energetic and sophisticated Labneh, Chillies and Fresh herbs and the Spring Pea soup, Thai Chilli and Mint for atmosphere is the combination of vivid purple, majestic blue and black colours and the starters. We then moved on to the mouthunusual furnishing. By walking across the lobby to check-in you know you have arrived at watering Braised Lamb Shanks with the right place. Green Curry and Vegetables for our main every corner. The overall smart yet classy course. The Ovaltine Kulfi caramelized INSIDE THE WOW HOTEL look and stylish feel of the suite made us banana served as our grand finale for a There is an array of amenities to discover certain we were exactly where we should stupendous meal. and activities to do inside the W Doha. be. Our favourite feature was the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Here are some of our recommendations After 9:00 pm signature bed with feather-top mattress, for an itinerary that would keep you SIZZLING NIGHTLIFE 400 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets entertained while having an idyllic holiday After such a delicious dinner we got and goose down comforter. The minibar in Qatar. into the party mood. It was time to was also a plus as it was packed with experiencing the ultimate nightlife in Qatar. drinks and snacks. A flat-screen LCD Mid-afternoon When it comes to partying in a truly Arabic TV, DVD player, iPod docking station, ENJOY THE WOW SUITE AFTER style nothing comes closer to Wahm, the Tivoli radio, WiFi internet access and CHECKING-IN most exotic and trendiest hot spot in town high-speed laptop connectivity added When staying in a hotel selecting the located in the second floor. Our night out to the exquisiteness of the experience. room that is just the right one is very started by choosing from a wide variety After checking in, take some time to important. We recommend you to stay in of drinks that we drank in one of the just enjoy the suite and relax as the one of the WOW suites. The suite is very cozy cushion-filled banquet by the black room is really something to look at and spacious and has the distinctive W brand mosaic tile and multi-coloured pool. After incredibly pleasurable. concept and decoration embedded in

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Lifestyle

staycation

a couple of hours sipping away cocktails that tickled our individual taste buds, we decided to move on to an even more happening scene. We went down to the mezzanine floor to mingle with the glitterati and listen to the tunes of the grooviest DJs of the world at Crystal. The nightclub is the right place to let yourself go and dance all night long among personalities as varied as Qatar’s mix of cultures.

WOW PROMOTIONS During the months of August and September the W Doha has plenty to offer. Here are some of the most attractive promotions available.

License to Thrill Reserve the James Bond Extreme WOW Suite package and enjoy all of the following benefits:

Mid Day TIME FOR BRUNCH After a great night of parting we had to inject some protein into our bodies. With standout dishes such as the sushi, spicy tuna, California Crab and Shrimp Tempura rolls, the Friday Brunch at The Market will revitalize your spirit. Adding to the extravaganza was the Parmesan Chicken, the Sirloin Steak in Soy Caramel Sauce with Ginger, Shitake Mushroom, the hammour cooked in marinated vegetables with aromatic sauce or the lamb soaked in caramelized onion sauce!

Celebrate your birthday Reserve your W Suite and celebrate your birth year. Your daily rate will be equal to your year of birth. For example, if you were born in 1948, your daily rate will be QR 1,948. Package includes:

• Bottle of champagne in the Suite upon arrival

The W Doha features different signatures restaurants that include The Spice Market and Market. Both concepts are the brainchild of three-star Michelin chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. La Maison du Caviar completes the trio of delectable eateries. •

• A W suite you’ll love • Breakfast buffet for two at Market Restaurant or IRD • High speed internet access The 35 Hours Because 24 hours are not enough, reserve in advance and make the most of your stay any day of the week. Rates starting from QR 1,435 for cozy suites and QR 1,935 for W Suites. Package includes:

• VIP welcome & in-stay treatment. Guest shall be addressed as Mr Bond during the entire stay • His/hers Omega watch in the Suite (to keep) • A suite mission letter • IRD or breakfast buffet in Market by Jean Georges • Dinner for two at Spice Market • High speed internet access Rates from QR 29,007 per night The W Diva Rates starting from QR 2,660 per night. The package includes: • A W Suite that you’ll love • Start the day right with a buffet breakfast for two at Market by Jean-Georges restaurant • Is fashion your passion? We will spoil you with a QR 350 voucher to spend in Salam Stores.

• Early check in at 10.00 am and late check out at 6.00 pm

• A Bliss deluxe body scrub for her, because she deserves it

• Breakfast buffet included

• Luxury in-room Bliss amenities

• High speed internet access

• We will treat you and your friend to a chic afternoon tea at W Café

How sweet is it? Reserve your suite and treat the children to a room. W Doha offers you a complimentary room with the reservation of a W Suite. • Rated from QR 2,359 for a W Suite and room included • Breakfast buffet for two adults and two children • High speed internet access

• Complimentary high speed internet access • Early check in at 10.00 am and late check-out at 6.00 pm • Box of Teuscher chocolates Upgrade yourself to a WOW suite for only QR 700 per night and be pampered with a personal shopper from Salam Stores during your shopping experience. Information on promotions provided by the W Doha.

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Lifestyle

staycation

An Arabian

Palace

rriving at the Grand Hyatt Doha made us feel like we were entering an Arabian Palace. The hotel will amaze you with its majestic entrance and the spectacular floor-to-ceiling 17m glass window that looks out onto the bay. In addition, the Grand Hyatt is walking distance to the The Pearl and offers a staggering view of beautiful surroundings. Spanning 155,000 sq m of beachfront, the hotel and residential complex is any vacationer’s dream come true. Upon arrival we were told that the Grand Hyatt Doha offers its guests four signature restaurants, two lounges, a private beach and three outdoor swimming pools, plus a luxurious spa. We couldn’t wait to start enjoying our mini-holiday.

INSIDE THE GRAND HYATT DOHA There is plenty to enjoy at the Grand Hyatt Doha. Here are some of our recommendations for the perfect holiday break:

Mid DAY CHECK OUT THE DELUXE ROOM The room we were given was definitely one of the highlights of our stay. Beautifully designed in rich woods and decorated with fine furniture, the room was a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. A basket of fresh fruit and complementary bubbly was waiting for us. Before getting ready for dinner we went to the balcony to take a glimpse of the landscaped garden view and the dramatic backdrop of Doha’s skyline. We then enjoyed a refreshing shower in the brilliantly designed marble bathroom with a separate bath and shower. Coffee and tea machine, in-room minibar, high speed Internet access, i-Pod docking stations and over 45 TV channels added to the comfort of our experience. Early evening DIVINE CUISINES ISSAN The restaurant is specifically conceptualized for family and friends to enjoy a culinary journey through some of the most authentic and delicious Thai dishes. We dined on a succulent a la carte menu which included small portions of Fried Vegetable, Grouper Red Curry Sauce, Minced Beef with Hot Basil, Roast Duck Curry, Shrimp Cakes with Sweet Chilli Dip and Shrimp Spring Rolls. The idea behind the concept of Issan is to order small portions of different dishes in order to get a taste of different cuisines.

98 ABODE AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011

Lifestyle

staycation

BISCOTTI A large array of desserts, homemade gelato, chocolate and other delicious goodies are offered at this Italian Bistro. THE GRILL Another option for diners is this contemporary restaurant that offers the juiciest Australian and New Zealand premium meat and fresh seafood prepared in an open kitchen. Enjoy the chef’s favourites Foie Gras Terrine as a delicious starter and then move on to the signature Slow Cooked Beef Short Ribs or the Wood Fired King Prawns for your main course. ROCCA At Rocca you can delight your palate with a menu that reflects cuisines from France, Italy and Greece.

AFTER 9.00 PM SUBLIME ENTERTAINMENT The night we stayed at the Grand Hyatt Doha, we wanted to hide from the hustle and bustle of our daily life, and we found the right getaway. Dunes Lounge is the hotel’s signature bar. A large display of different wines and an extensive selection of cigars to choose from helped us to get in the mood and just relax. Combined with a peaceful ambiance and breathtaking terraces, Dunes offered us an exquisite experience. •

Grand Hyatt Doha PROMOTIONS Select one of the special promotions at the Grand Hyatt Doha to enjoy a great holiday. ESCAPE! Indulge yourself in luxurious rooms for only QR 799 a night. Allow yourself to be treated to a delicious Mediterranean-style lunch or dinner by the sea at Rocca restaurant. Each room will receive a value of QR 150 for single or QR 300 for double to spend at Rocca. The offer is valid on weekends only. (Minimum stay: 2 nights) GRAND WEEKENDS Happening every Friday from 12.30 p.m. to 4.00 pm Have your favourite meal at Issan or the Grill. Prices are QR 250 including soft drinks and QR 395 including unlimited selected house beverages. ROCCA, PIZZA AND PASTA! Throughout August, Rocca is offering all-youcan-eat-pizza and pasta for QR 170 per person including five malt beverages. STEAK NIGHTS AT THE GRILL! Every day from 6.30 pm till 12 midnight, enjoy a variety of prime and Wagyu beef from Australia and New Zealand (VICS “premium” rib eye, Tajima “silver” tenderloin and Pureland “PRIME” T-Bone, to name just a few). Specially selected white or red wine from Table Mountain will perfectly match the menu of your choice. The Grill’s steak package starts from QR 180 including free-flowing red and white wine. JAZZY SATURDAYS Family restaurant The Grill will turn into a romantic and cosy experience every Saturday night . You will enjoy a new a la carte menu featuring the freshest seafood, best steaks and fine dining dishes, together with the Doha jazz band creating a sophisticated atmosphere starting at 7.00 pm to 11.00 pm. Information on promotions provided by the Grand Hyatt Doha.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2011 ABODE 99

Lifestyle

staycation

Style up Your Weekend By Laurence Udo

Staying in Qatar this summer and looking for options on how to make weekends special for your family? The Doha Marriott Hotel gives you the option to enjoy a great weekend at a stylish address sans the mundane hassle of travelling.

Over the last few decades the distinctive blue tower of the Doha Marriott Hotel has become a landmark easily recognizable from a distance. The name itself is synonymous with unique hospitality, classy interiors and a staff trained to take care of you from the moment you step inside. This time when the weekend comes knocking and you face the same old question: How can you make it special? The solution is ready and waiting whether you are a family with children or a singleton just about ready to paint the town red. Make time to go to a place, you would not have necessarily thought of, as the perfect weekend destination: the Doha Marriott Hotel. This summer a special promotion is running and for a price of only QR 828 per night, you can enjoy a full weekend at the Doha Marriott Hotel, with an early check-in at 8 am and late check-out at 8 pm, giving you ample time to enjoy a well deserved escape and a home away from home. Your weekend here begins with a cool down by the pool. One of the largest pools in Doha, it is ideal for exercise and laps and if you like, a great time to play with the children in the shallow end of the temperature-controlled water, no matter what the weather is like outside. And if peace is your thing, take the time to lay back in one of the comfy lounges and build up the bronze tan. Alternatively, you can head to the quiet and calming atmosphere of the Doha Marriott spa and try out one of the many signature treatments. By noon, get ready and walk inside for an

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extravagant culinary experience at the Doha Marriott Brunch. The brunch is already well known in town for offering one of the best gastronomic experiences, whether it is the fantastic taste, the opulent setting or the delicious creations. The food will leave you amazed and full. Whilst the parents enjoy a festive brunch, the kids are all taken care of and will have a lot of fun too with face painting activities, games, dance and a lot more. The trained staff is fully equipped to take care of everything. Take time to enjoy a small siesta or head out to the beach for activities. The secluded and private beach of the Doha Marriott is a hidden treasure. Overlooking the marina and offering magnificent views of the Doha Bay and West Bay skyline, it is a perfect spot to just relax or have fun in the water, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

It sounds already like a fun packed weekend but this is not the end. As the evening approaches, take time to decide where you would like to spend your time and create wonderful memories. With six restaurants, the Doha Marriott’s highly professional culinary team will fulfill your fantasy of a beautiful evening. The JW’s Steakhouse offers an intimate, upscale dining experience which is reflected in the sophisticated atmosphere and classic décor. You will understand why it was awarded the Best Steakhouse in town. Asia Live! offers a fusion of fragrant dishes from the far East, from Japanese to Thai cuisine. Whether it is a freshly prepared sushi or a skillful demonstration of Teppanyaki art, you will be amazed. Dash through Salsa to discover a slice of Mexico and you can be

Lifestyle

assured of a lively and joyful experience. Let the authentic picturesque setting and its colourful charm be an exciting backdrop for an evening full of rich flavors and spices. However, if you have Indian cuisine on your mind, hop over to the elegant yet simple interiors of Taj Rasoi, dubbed as one of the best Indian restaurant in Doha. You will be transported into a dining experience full of aromatic herbs and spices, rarely enjoyed outside of India. The culinary trail continues with the Corniche restaurant, a casual all-day dining destination in a bright and cheerful Mediterranean setting. In addition to the international a la carte menu, it features delicious fresh breakfast and lunch buffets, not to mention its lavish evening seafood buffets.

nightlife scene, you are in for a night of fun or you can also lounge in the sleek leather chairs. Enjoy innovative cocktails and lavish snacks or dance the night away to the beats of the international DJs who spin the decks every night. Don’t fret about the children since our trained baby sitters will look after them! When it is finally time to call it a night, head back to your luxurious room and indulge in one the most fantastic sleeping experience

staycation

ever. The Marriott’s Revive® bedding collection is unique and incomparable, featuring 300-thread-count, Egyptian cotton-rich sheets, thick and comfortable mattresses as well as big fluffy pillows. You will want to take this bed home! With the late check-out, you will be able to lie in or get up early, and enjoy it all over again. Does this sound like your kind of weekend?

The latest addition is the Shisha Terrace. It is the best place to lounge, relax and unwind while enjoying the panoramic views of the Doha Skyline. After having wined and dined, when you are ready to party, head for the Pearl Lounge Club and immerge in the sophisticated and glamorous atmosphere. Being one of the highlights of Doha’s

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travel

SeATTLe, Se SeA TTLe, e,, W e WA WASHInGTOn, ASHIn SHInGTO nGTOn GTOn, n, USA

WORDS AND IMAGES BY FRANk WEBB

You may have heard that it rains frequently in Seattle, but don’t let a little “liquid sunshine” put you off. It is one of the few places in the world where you can be outdoors year round and never be too hot or too cold.

Seattle is an outdoors sort of town. The climate is near perfect. In fact, you will be hard pressed to find any of the locals carrying an umbrella. It’s a small, perhaps unconscious demonstration of the pioneering, frontier spirit that lies just under Seattle’s shiny, high-tech exterior. Scratch the surface and you will find a 19th century logging town. Scratch harder and you will come away with pine pitch under your nails. Our travel writer give us his glimpse of the perfect places to visit:

seATTle CenTer AnD sPACe neeDle. The north edge of downtown is Seattle Center and the site of the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair. This area is now home to Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s Experience Music Project, the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, and the famous Space Needle.

Pike Place Market – the heart of Seattle

PiKe PlACe MArKeT. Wake up to the fragrant aroma of coffee in this bustling historic market place as the original Starbucks coffee shop is located nearby. The famous market, established in 1907, is a swirl of sight and sound in downtown Seattle and chances are, what you have been served in any local restaurant was probably purchased here. The market hosts hundreds of vendors, fisheries, farmers’ stalls and cafés. It’s worth buying a good-sized salmon just to watch the purveyors toss the fish around.

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When the 605 ft (184.4 m) Space Needle opened, it instantly became the icon of Seattle. The top level features an observation deck with a 360-degree panoramic view and a small cafe. Just below, is the rotating Sky City restaurant specializing in Pacific Northwest cuisine.

INSIDER TIP Skip the long observation deck queue by making a reservation at Sky City. You will save $18 and get the same view with paying for admission. Time Saved: 1 hour

The Icon of Seattle: the Space Needle

LIFESTYLE

travel

Panoramic view of downtown from the Space needle in the north to the sports stadiums in the south

The view from Kerry Park in the upscale Queen Anne Hill neighborhood

MuseuM of fliGhT. The aerospace giant, Boeing, came from very humble beginnings: Bill Boeing’s little red barn. That original red barn where William Boeing began building airplanes is now part of the Museum of Flight, whose collection includes more than 150 historic airplanes and spacecraft. The Museum of Flight is located at Boeing Field, just south of downtown, but if this doesn’t quench your aviation thirst, you may consider a trip 30 miles (48 km) north to the Boeing Factory at Paine Field in Mukilteo, Washington. There, the Commercial Jet Interpretive Center features an aviation gallery with interactive exhibits on commercial aviation, a theater and a roof-top observation deck to view airport operations. 90-minute guided tours of the nearby Boeing plant begin and end at the Center.

Great ambiance plus good food equals good times at Ivar’s (Photo courtesy of Ivar’s & Kidd Valley Restaurants)

Ivar’s Acres of Clams on Seattle’s Pier 54 (Photo courtesy of Ivar’s & Kidd Valley Restaurants)

Pier P ier er 54 IVAR’S ACRES OF CLAMS. Ivar’s Acres of Clams is one of the top choices for dinner although the Seattle waterfront is awash with fine restaurants. If Pike Place Market is the heart of Seattle, Ivar’s at Pier 54 is its soul for noone embodied the spirit of Seattle more than the late Ivar Haglund. In fact, the public posthumously voted him “the person who best exemplified Seattle” and a statue in his honour was placed on historic Pier 54, next to his restaurant that opened in 1938. You won’t be disappointed.

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ouT on The WATer. Some of the best views of Seattle are from the water, and while there are plenty of harbour tours to choose from, the best and the cheapest is to simply hop aboard one of the Washington State Ferries for a short trip over to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. The Bremerton waterfront – adjacent to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard – is tourist-friendly and a very pleasant place to spend an hour or two.

Serene views from the Washington State Ferry enroute to Bremerton

Downtown waterfront as seen from the Washington State Ferry

Pioneer Square; the “original” Seattle

The seATTle unDerGrounD Tour in Pioneer sQuAre. This tour is not to be missed and highly recommended unless you’re claustrophobic or only brought along high-heeled shoes. In the 1870s, the residents chose to raise the entire town by a floor rather than deal with constant mudslides and debris. The tour takes visitors below street level where they can view vintage storefronts and other details from Seattle’s past, and the stories your guide relates will generate fond memories of your visit to Seattle. GeTTinG There: Steaming past a west-bound Ferry in the Puget Sound

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From Doha on Qatar Airways connect through Houston on Continental or Alaska Airlines to Seattle’s SeaTac airport. Ground transportation from SeaTac is plentiful with the new light rail link to downtown being convenient and the least expensive option. But not the quickest as it makes several stops along the way. With some 30,000 hotel rooms in and around the downtown core, finding accommodations to suit any taste or budget is achievable. •

Lifestyle

travel

The Venice

of France Lak e Annecy, Haute Savoie, France By Moona Masri-Whitice Photography yasmeen whitice

Annecy – A fabulous summer destination that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the French Alps.

f you think you saw it all in Venice then you are mistaken. Nestled on a glacier lake, surrounded by the French Alps, lies Annecy that many have compared to the Venice of France.

Annecy is a city rich in history and culture dating back to the 10th century, offering the summer traveller a picturesque view of colourful chalets, villas, old covered bridges, Venice – like water ways and narrow streets, all nestled on the corner of the pristine waters of a glacier lake. What to do: For a more leisurely visit, stroll the narrow streets of the old town and discover small retail boutiques and souvenir shops and paintings, as well as handmade arts and crafts intertwined between cafes, outdoor restaurants, and ice cream parlours – everyone’s favourite. For the adventure lover, there is hiking and cycling and a plethora of water activities. You can swim in the crystal waters of the lake, rent a catamaran, water ski or simply take a cruise around the lake.

Downtown Annecy

Where to stay: For a place to call home that is centrally located, the Best Western Carlton Annecy, located on 5 Rue des Gliders, 74000 Annecy, does the trick. The hotel is in the centre of the old town and is within walking distance to the main train and bus stations. Another advantage is the free WIFI in the rooms. How to get there: Annecy is only 50 kilometers south of Geneva, Switzerland by bus, train, or rental car. Qatar Airways operates daily between Doha and Geneva. •

Food recommendations: For those who desire an exclusive yet trendy fare, Restaurant Moon 30 avenue d’Albigny, 74000, Annecy, is sure to delight the palate. The menu is a fusion of Asian and Marrakech tastes deliciously blended the way only the French can do it. And for dessert, good old American cheesecake!

Lake Annecy

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travel

Escape to the Blue Waters of a Swedish island n,, SW EDEN en e Te TK UST eL AGO OF VäSTK eL IPe ARCHIP

Käringön

BY kRISTINA HELG

Take a holiday cruise to the Archipelago of Västkusten the western shores of Sweden. WhY Go? The rounded granite islands form a picturesque archipelago framed by the magic light of the Nordic sun draped in endless shades of blue – the infinite sky and calm waters. This beautiful destination is a boating holiday that is like heaven on earth. WhAT To Do? Boating by itself is an activity that can take up your entire vacation. There are many options to choose from and your hotel concierge can guide you as to which are the best choices for you. If you are tech savvy, you can register for boat rental and parking online at the website of some of the main harbours. However, if boating is not the leisure you seek, the islands offer many other activities like sightseeing, shopping, crab fishing, swimming and hiking. Where To AnChor? An amazingly beautiful place to anchor is at the picturesque former fortress harbour of Marstrand, host of International Match Races (sailing). In Marstrand, there are many diversions to be enjoyed such as nice beaches, shopping and an exciting night life. If you are interested in a piece of cinematic history, head north towards the fascinating setting of Ingrid Bergman’s summer place, Fjällbacka. The timeless actress’ statue welcomes visitors in the square below the granite rock mountain side. As is in most nature reserves in Sweden, rock climbing is a favourite diversion and is facilitated by a wooden staircase so that visitors can make it all the way to the top safely. Fjallbacka offers visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. Nature’s Harbour enroute to Kosteröna

Other harbours not to miss are Mollösund, Smögen Fiskebäckskil, Hunnebostrand and Hamburgsund.

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Marstrand

Where To eAT? All the harbours offer a variety of options from “korv kiosk” food (ie hot-dog stand), to fast food places and fine dining. As the day turns to evening, many eateries offer a view of the magnificent Swedish sunsets such as Petersons Krog at Korington. in Where To shoP? There are small grocer y shops might you coast, the on each harbour. For real shopping r want to check out Stenugnsund or continue 30 km furthe nburg. Gothe of city south to the vibrant and sophisticated Coast hoW To GeT There? The largest city on the West the and a natural starting point for your trip is Gothenburg, largest seaport not only in Sweden but in all the Nordic of countries. Qatar Airways flies directly to the capital city l Sweden, Stockholm and there are trains from the centra nient station to Gothenburg. It is however much more conve to fly to Copenhagen and take a train direct to Gothenburg tour from the airpor t. You can rent a boat or sign up for a er from the numerous travel agencies in the harbour; howev you may be better off booking in advance. • Petersons Krog

F CTS & BOOkINGS FA The busiest month is July and the ports / hotels / restaurants quickly fill up, so to be sure to get space, we recommend you book in advance. Find out more about travelling in Sweden at www.visitsweden.com Photo courtesy: Ian Hedstrom

reader’s CORNER BY MArY rY sebAsTiAn PHOTOGRAPHY MiKhAil QuiJAno rY

CArTe blAnChe bY Y JefferY Y DeAv A er Av American author Jeffery Deaver was introduced to James Bond at the age of nine when he was just a pudgy Illinois school boy. The ultimate fiction spy went on to become his role model, and now is the main character in Deaver’s latest contribution to the 007 series. In Carte Blanche, Deaver updates everything to the 21st century. So, Bond is now a former Royal Naval reserve who drives the sleek Bentley Continental GT and carries an iPhone. Deaver also takes creative liberty of carving new attributes to Bond. So our modern-day hero is a non-smoker, exercises every day and drinks much less than Ian Fleming’s protagonist, the original creator of Bond. But the thrills remain the same. Racy and stylish, in Carte Blanche, Bond finds himself zooming from London to Serbia to Dubai to Cape Town chasing the murky Severen Hydt, who runs an empire built for recycling refuse and waste. The ingenious metaphor is never once missed throughout the novel as Deaver portrays Hydt who has a macabre fascination for death and decay and decadence. And like every 007 drama, we have the mysterious and sexy Bond girl, aptly named Felicity Willing, to whom Bond is, obviously enough, attracted. Deaver keeps the pace racing. Carte Blanche is full of red herrings, unexpected twists, subplots, chapters with cliff hanger endings and a huge body count. The locations are exotic. This is a rollercoaster ride and by the time you are finished with it, you will come out of it breathless and heady. That’s Bond, James Bond for you.

Ten TiTles To PiCK K uP noW 1. Kitchen by nigella lawson This is all about Nigella’s love affair with the kitchen. Recipes from the Heart of the Home talk about the food we eat now, the way we eat and live today, and most importantly preparing feel-good food from the most important room in the house – the kitchen. 2. Jamie’s 30 Minute Meal by Jamie oliver Jamie brings in 50 brand-new exciting, varied and seasonal meal ideas that take less than half an hour to prepare by mastering a few tricks and being organized and focused in the kitchen. 3. Chasing fire by nora roberts Nora delves into the world of elite firefighters, men and women, who thrive on danger and who wouldn’t know how to live life if it wasn’t on the edge. 4. rules of life by richard Templar Richard Templar brings together the rules that happy, successful people follow: small, simple, common-sense, doable rules that can change your life. 5. straight Talk, no Chaser by steve harvey Tired of answers that are deceptive? Try Harvey’s three-tier, CIA-style of questioning that will leave your man no choice but to cut to the chase and deliver the truth. 6. inner ner Circle by brad Meltzer An archivist with the National Archives, Beecher White stumbles upon an old book hidden away in a room used

exclusively by the President. Did the president know the book was there? Worse yet, could it be that the President or someone close to him is willing to kill to regain possession of the book? 7. 10th Anniversary by James Patterson Detective Lindsay Boxer postpones her wedding to solve a gruesome murder of a teenage girl, whose newborn baby seems to be kidnapped, while assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellanov prosecutes a woman accused of murdering her husband in front of her two young children. 8. City of fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare The Mortal War is over, and Clary Fray is training to become a Shadowhunter. But someone is murdering Shadowhunters, and Clary’s best friend, Simon, can’t help her. Clary is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare. 9. Department 19 by Will hill Frankenstein introduces Jamie to Department 19, a super-secret organization tasked with hunting vampires. Jamie, part of a long line of vampire hunters reaching back to the days of Abraham Van Helsing, must learn all he can before risking the rescue of his mother from one of the oldest vampires in existence. 10. intelligent entrepreneur by bill Murphy Murphy presents his 10 rules of successful entrepreneurship and uses actual cases to describe the challenges of starting a business and realizing success.

ABODE

entertainer

Make way for By Jorge Granda Pictures Provided by: E

An Australian singer and writer, E recently became one of the first artists in Qatar to film a music video in Doha with the help of the Doha Film Institute. ABODE spoke with the lucky performer about his career and the importance of producing music videos in the country.

atar is becoming well-known in the cultural and sporting events arena, in addition to being one of the most progressive and richest countries in the world. Therefore, it was only a matter of time before show business came calling. The Doha Film Institute has been at the helm of affairs by not just providing assistance to budding film makers, actors, and writers, but also with music videos, which are being financing, filmed and produced here in Qatar. One of the artists that has had the privilege to become one of the very few to be taking part in this initiative is Australian singer and writer “E.” The performer recently launched his first music video which was produced in Qatar. The launch was a lavish event that took place at Lava Lounge in the Intercontinental Doha. ABODE: For how long have you been singing and writing? E: I have always had a passion for music, but I started to take the craft more seriously about 15 years ago. That’s when I started to sing and write professionally.

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ABODE: How is it going so far? E: I want to believe I am doing well. I had a song that topped the charts of MP3. com.au for six months. The music video of another of my songs Kissing Hope was broadcast successfully on national television in Australia and it was also shown in New York. In January 2010, the producers of QBS radio in Qatar heard my material and really liked it. They played some of my songs in “QBS Alternative Rock Monday Nights”. Also, last year I was invited to be the opening act of Bamboo (MTV Asian Artist of the Year) in a concert at Al Wakra. I sang

a song I wrote called A.I.R. air guitar and the crowd went crazy. Even after Bamboo finished playing people where still humming my song, it was a great feeling. ABODE: You recently launched a new video that was filmed in Qatar, one of the first one ones to be produced in the country. Tell us about the experience. E: Yes, I became one of the first artists to film a video in Qatar and I feel very proud and excited about it. The song is called Moving on and the video was filmed in different locations around Doha, including Katara, Cultural Village. The video was entirely financed by

ABODE

entertainer

“

We are showing people around the world what Qatar is capable of doing in term of arts

”

all the people who participated in it, because we believed in the product. It took us two days to film it. The lead actor is a Qatari and our leading lady is from Egypt. It was directed by the winner of the Doha Film Institute award Bayan Dah. We also got great support from the Doha Film Institute who provided us with all the equipment. It was honestly a great experience and I want to thank everybody who was involved in making this a reality. The video is on YouTube and I am working with different people to promote it in places outside Qatar including Australia.

ABODE: What do you think is the importance of filming a music video in Qatar with local talent? E: It is extremely significant that this is happening here. We are showing people around the world what Qatar is capable of doing well in term of arts. I believe making music videos is a big step towards Qatar becoming known as a country that pays attention to all forms of culture and arts. Qatar is a country that is constantly changing and I am glad that I am contributing a little bit in the changes that are happening.

ABODE: How do you describe your sound? E: Rock and pop, I think my sound is similar to (singer) Pink’s. I would really like to be her opening act one day. ABODE: Where is E going from here? E: I will continue producing and writing music and take my craft as far as I can. I have several projects in the pipeline that I am sure you will hear about soon. I believe in my music and I am very confident I will have the chance to be part of many positive and interesting ventures. •

»For more information on E, visit, www.reverbnation.com/efo

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art

Feel the Art of Fatma Al Naimi by Jorge Granda Photography Mikhail Quijano

If you ask anyone at Katara, Fatma Al Naimi is one of the most renowned Qatari artists of her generation. Her exceptional artistic talents have made her the focus of attention of countless exhibitions and many awards ceremonies in the region. ABODE caught up with the Qatari artist to learn more about her art and what inspires her.

atari artist Fatma Al Naimi is fast becoming a household name for her introspective paintings. She has a flair for giving life to pictures and movement to the objects that she paints. The subjects of her inspirational work are children, local artisans and chairs. An interesting fact we found out is that Fatma is also an accomplished jewellery designer. Born in Qatar in 1975, Fatma knew she had a gift for painting since she was very young. At the age of 18, Fatma became convinced of her passion for art when she became an active member of the Qatar Society for Fine Arts. Since then her path to success has been accompanied by her ability to transmit feelings and emotions through her work. Her paintings are powerful and stylish interpretations of both her personality as an artist and the subjects of her inspiration. Fatma attained her Bachelors Degree in Art Education at the Qatar University and has won many awards including first place in the contest “the most beautiful painting” in 1993 and 1994, organized by the Qatar University, Jewellers Design Competition of the World Gold Council in Bahrain in 1996.

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ABODE: How would you describe your art? Fatma: My paintings are unusual. When I paint, my inspiration comes from body shapes and chairs. I become inspired by pictures that are dear to me and I give them feelings and emotions through my art. I also get inspired by chairs; there is something special about them that get my attention. I like painting chairs and giving them movement. My art is all about giving feelings to what I enjoy watching and tell a story. ABODE: How important do you think it is for Qatari artists like yourself to work hard to make their art known? Fatma: It is extremely important. Not only for our art to be known inside Qatar, but also outside our country.

Lifestyle

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Artists are big a part of the essence of any country. Through art, an artist can show how the community sees the future and they have the ability to portray the culture of a nation. I believe this is exactly what we should do for Qatar; we have to cross boundaries. We should tell the world who we are as a nation through our art and let everybody know our rich culture and heritage. Artists are very important in any society. Artists can help a country build bridges between different cultures. ABODE: Why do you think you have been successful as a painter? Fatma: Because my paintings are very unusual and they are also beautiful. I take simple things from life and give them a story and they come alive in their own way. I try to portray emotions in everything I do and people perceive that. I believe they perceive what I am trying to express and the passion I put in my work. My paintings have personality, they are their own entity and the public react to that and respect it. ABODE: What is your advice for the new generation of Qatari artists who want to pursue your same success? Fatma: I advise them to always stay in touch with the new techniques that would make them global artists and have the same level as any other artist from anywhere else in the world. Technology is influencing every aspect of our lives, including the arts. Therefore we need to stay on top of what’s happening in the outside world and include it in our work. A diversity of contemporary art forms is emerging and an artist should be encouraged to embrace all those elements and bring it out in whatever they do with their work. • For information on Fatma Al Naimi, please visit www.fatma-alnaimi.webs.com

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automotive

“

Passion for cars is something you are born with. You either have it or you don’t.

”

The Need for Speed By Jorge Granda

Have you ever dreamt of having a full-time hobby as a successful race car driver in addition to an equally successful fulltime career? Then you will be envious of Wissam Assaf. The 29 year old is one of the top Mitsubishi Evolution race car drivers in Doha and the Project Management Leader of GE Oil & Gas Middle East.

issam Assaf is the man behind the extremely successful Autopotenza team which secured second place in the Qatar National Road Racing Championship in 2010/2011. This moment came after a lifetime of passion that began when he first attempted to drive a car at the age of 10. It would be appropriate to say he was born with this fascination for cars and speed, knowing early on that he would find comfort behind the wheel. Assaf’s passion for speed led him to become a rally assistant while living in Lebanon. His profession as a mechanical engineer made him a much sought after professional within the industry and gave him the chance to explore the car racing world in more depth in Italy first and now Qatar.

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ABODE: Long before you were a race car driver, you had a passion for cars, right? WA: Definitely. When I was 10 years old, I attempted to drive my first car. In that moment, I knew I wanted to be a race car driver. Passion for cars is something you are born with. You either have it or you don’t. ABODE: How did you begin as a car race driver? WA: I first became a rally assistant in Lebanon. Due to my profession, I had the opportunity to work in Italy. While in Italy I decided to get more serious with racing, so I trained and competed for three years in European corporate championships.

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I did quite well, but I had the feeling I still needed to go a step further. ABODE: Did you go a step further? WA: Absolutely, not in Italy though. I was offered a job in Qatar two years ago. When I arrived in Qatar, I started researching and getting to know other drivers in the country. I started exploring the racing scene, going to racing at Lusail circuit and met a few people who gave me their support and confidence. That’s how I decided to form my own team which I called Autopotenza. ABODE: Tell us about Autopotenza. WA: The team was formed in 2010. We have two cars, a Mitsubishi Evolution 7 prototype and Mitsubishi Evolution 10 prototype. I started driving the Evolution 7, but I am currently competing with the Evolution 10. ABODE: How many members form your team? WA: There are seven people that work with me on a regular basis. They help me take care of all logistics and sourcing parts for the cars. When I race I bring a couple of mechanics from Lebanon to help me out. Working as a team is exceedingly important in order to have good results. ABODE: How is the team doing so far? WA: We are doing very well. The racing season just ended in June and we secured the second spot in the Qatar National Road Racing Championship held at Lusail Circuit in the Production Class. However there is a downside. This sport is very expensive and so far we have been having some difficulties in securing a good sponsor. If we do not manage to secure a sponsor for the next season, I am not so sure about the future of Autopotenza.

WA: The championship is divided into two categories – open class and production class. In the open class, there is no restriction on horse power or car modification, while the production class is up only for Mitsubishi Evolution and Subaru with stock bodywork and equally restricted turbo charges to increase level of competition. We compete in the production class. ABODE: Do you find car racing dangerous? WA: Not at all. There are too many strict safety regulations that have to be followed; there is no way around it. I believe driving racing cars now is safer than ever before. ABODE: Juggling between a fulltime successful career as an engineer and a fulltime hobby as a racing car driver must give you little time for yourself.

How do you deal with the pressure? WA: That is true, I have very little time for myself. I travel a lot because of my job and the rest of the time, I spend preparing for my races. However I do like to relax sometimes. I usually spend time at the Belgian Café. This summer I am going on holidays to Lebanon and Italy. ABODE: Have you ever considered leaving your job and dedicate fully to racing? WA: I absolutely love the sport, there is no doubt about it, but it will not become my fulltime job. Racing is simply my fulltime hobby. I do want to grow more as a professional driver and I will never leave my job. What you love to do, you simply do it, but that doesn’t mean it has to become your entire life. •

ABODE: How are you planning to attract sponsorship? WA: It is not something easy to obtain. But we are already an established and successful team, therefore I have high hopes we will find the right person who believes in us and will help us stay on top of our game. ABODE: How many categories are there in the Qatar National Road Racing Championship?

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The Sportiest of Cars BY jORGE GRANDA

The latest Porsche Carrera 911 model is one of the best sports car in the world. Built to impress, it is armed with a suave and attractive design, all-round economy and heightened driving pleasure. It is the car that boosts your confidence and makes you feel like you have arrived.

The new Carrera models are Porsche’s first sports cars for the road to feature the Porsche double-clutch transmission (PDK)

ike a roaring lion running free in the concrete jungle the new Porsche Carrera delivers everything a sports car driver dream of. The reputation that this Porsche model has acquired over the past years as one of the best performing sports cars available in the market becomes even more evident with the new model. ABODE had the chance to take it for a spin around the streets of Doha. What we noticed was that, contrary to some of Porsche’s closest competitors, the Carrera focuses more in enabling the driver in an enjoyable driving experience, rather than accessorizing the car with an unlimited number of gadgets. The Carrera offers the driver superior stability on the road, while the performance and suspension off road is as steady and responsive as of any 4x4 wheel drive, making the ride smooth and empowering in any scenario.

unbeATAble forCe The new 911 Carrera accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, with the advantage of upgraded, high-performance brakes able to respond quickly within very short distances, making the driver feel safe behind the wheel. This model comes equipped with brake discs that measure 330 millimetres (12.99’’).

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Things we loved about the car The car boasts a sound equipment with up to 48 memory tuning dials, FM dual tuners and a BOSE surround system. In fact, listening to music inside the car is an audio experience. It also has five different seat variants offering each driver the seating comfort of their choice. Seat ventilation in combination with seat heating as a new option is also available. The standard engine in this

automotive

model is 3.6 litres; however, you can order an upgraded S version that comes with a 3.8-litre engine. Another option that is ingenious is the double-clutch transmission (PDK). The doubleclutch transmission comes with seven gears shifting electro-hydraulically without the slightest interruption of traction, power and pulling force. This option gives the car an amazingly smooth ride in any terrain. â&#x20AC;˘

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automotive

Bold & Balanced By AJ Corey

There’s always room for one more: the new 2011 Chevrolet Captiva. Don’t let the tough, bold look of the exterior fool you, the Captiva is compact enough when it comes to navigating around the tricky corners in Doha.

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automotive

he 2011 Chevrolet Captiva LTZ is the most luxurious option of the compact SUV, designed with style and convenience in mind. The exterior of the vehicle sets a bold tone with its flared hood, confident wheel arches, air vents incorporated into the fenders and fog lights.

I was particularly impressed with the Captiva LTZ’s array of safety measures. The car comes equipped with frontal and curtain side impact airbags. In addition to this, the LTZ came with a Traction Control System, Electronic Stability Program and Active Rollover Protection. I felt very safe while driving the streets and highways of Qatar. My favourite feature of the car was the carbon-filtered air system. This ensures that the air you and your family are breathing is clean, dust-free air, a real plus for the Doha roads. In addition to the safety features, the car also has its’ respective amount of digital gadgets including an AUX input, Bluetooth, Rear Park Assist Sensors and a respectable eight speaker sound system for all of your cruising tunes. If the car’s exterior is best described as bold, then the interior is best described as comfortable. The materials and workmanship are of the highest standard, and the car feels much more roomy then one would think looking at it from the outside. It has a

seating capacity of seven and provides lots of leg and head room for all. From the leather wrapped steering wheel to the soft leather seats, I felt at home immediately after taking the wheel. The compact SUV is an ideal vehicle for Doha. It provides a decent amount of ground clearance and the All Wheel Drive feature to get you to your favorite spot on the beach, but is small enough to allow you to maneuver through the many small streets and parking areas of central Doha. The Captiva LTZ comes with a 3.0 V6 engine with direct fuel injection that translates into a formidable 264 HP for the compact SUV. The Captiva is automatically set in “ECO” mode, which is a setting that allows for better fuel consumption. Though the car performed well enough this mode, I preferred to easily switch out of “ECO” mode and utilize the cars tiptronic gear system which allows a choice between the six gears of the automatic transmission to make use of. The car was responsive and certainly had enough power to pass the Land Cruiser on the highway and had the necessary vigour to sneak into a busy roundabout. The transmission proved to have excellent timing and responsiveness. The suspension was tight while cornering, but provided a surprisingly smooth ride over the humps and bumps that are so common on the city roads, and the maneuverability of the car was quick and nimble. The Captiva strikes a balance of being compact enough to easily navigate parking garages and crowded streets while still having some light off-roading capabilities. The car provides a comfortable interior for the family, and enough storage space to fit in the family’s groceries, or some extra children after football practice. With its fulltime all-wheel drive, powerful engine, responsive transmission and set of safety features, the 2011 Chevrolet Captiva should prove to be a great family car to own. •

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automotive

Acadia –Treats You Like Family! jORGESEBASTIAN GRANDA BY MARy

Talking about her choice of cars, a friend once told me that she always preferred American wheels. The reason? Comfort, ease and safety all rolled in one. Plus, everything happens at just the press of a button! Perhaps this is why the GMC Acadia 2011 is the perfect family car.

iven that the GMC is known for its macho-style SUV Yukon and Denali models, the usual perception around the Acadia is that it is just another boy’s toy – massive, macho and perfect for the desert. But take the Acadia for a test drive with your family, and you might just be pleasantly surprised. The perfect ride for families, the Acadia is GMC’s smoothest crossover SUV utility vehicle with seating up to seven and cargo space that can fit a mini picnic party! On the exterior, the Acadia may be a bit smaller than the usual GMC drives, but don’t let the size fool you. The Acadia is actually about the same size inside as the GMC’s full-size SUV, the Yukon. And the

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automotive

“

Families who like to go on frequent picnics will be grateful for this crossover’s generous amount of cargo room (...)

”

added benefit is that the Acadia uses car like uni-body architecture that makes it lighter and more space efficient than its heavier, body-on-frame truck-based SUV cousins. With none of the physical hassle of driving around a full-power SUV, the biggest plus point of the Acadia is that it will definitely please the working mom. Surprisingly easy to maneuver with a powerful V6 engine, women will definitely appreciate the Acadia’s smooth, quiet ride. Families who like to go on frequent picnics will be grateful for this crossover’s generous amount of cargo room, because maximum cargo space stands at 117 cubic feet.

plush soft leather finish of the steering wheel, you almost feel like you are in the spa of a five-star hotel and life doesn’t get any better than this. There’s more for the indulgence like rear parking sensors with rear-view camera, remote start, and cruise control. If you can turn a forgiving eye on the hard-grade interior plastics, Acadia spells out total luxury. Add all this and plus some more from the safety side – Antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows, a great turning radius and hands-free phone connectivity – this one’s already wowed me! •

The Acadia is equipped with clever features like the secondrow sliding mechanism that compacts the seat to allow better access to the third row, which is roomy enough even for adults. Don’t be surprised if somebody told you to play a decent board game in the cargo space of the Acadia. That statement in all probability would be true. As guilty as we are, all of us – without doubt – love the comfort factor. Which is why when you slip into the driver’s seat of the Acadia and feel the

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technology

«TECH SUPPORT» The summer is by no means over. The Smartphone space is seeing great new additions, from the Facebook-friendly HTC Cha Cha to the ultra light Samsung Galaxy 10.1 inch tablet, the ultra new Galaxy S2 and the affordable Vodafone 455. Here’s a peak at what’s coming out soon.

Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 3G: The latest tablet innovation from Samsung is the all new Samsung Galaxy 10.1 inch tablet. This ultra light weight tablet is the first 10 inch tablet offering from Samsung. It is lighter then the iPad2, weighing just 565 gm and includes some sporty new features such as a super-fast dual core processor, 2 cameras for video chatting and taking pictures of your friends and family and of course, super fast 3G plus WiFi to access the internet and your favourite applications. The Samsung Galaxy tab is also one of the first tablets to run the latest Google Android operating system, Honeycomb. Google’s Honeycomb software is purpose built just for tablets, hence the experience is amazing and the apps are engineered just for Tablets. Following on from this, Samsung are launching an 8.9 inch version with exactly the same features, but for those who want a slightly smaller version on the go.

HTC Cha Cha: The HTC Cha Cha is the very first smartphone to be integrated with Facebook. You can share your music, photos, location and status updates with a dedicated Facebook share button. The Cha Cha has a Facebook button that lets you share just about anything with just one touch. Take a photo - straight to Facebook. Make a video - straight to Facebook. Show whatever, whenever, at the touch of a button. HTC Cha Cha also comes with a easy to use QWERTY keyboard, so you can type messages fast, whether it’s an email, a new Facebook posting, or an instant message. The HTC Cha Cha comes packed with two cameras, high speed 3G internet access, and uses the Android OS, giving you access to your favourite applications.

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technology

Nokia E6: The latest Smartphone from Nokia is a great device for work and play. The Nokia E6 combines a full QWERTY keyboard with a TFT capacitive touch screen. The Nokia E6 has two cameras, so you can video chat with all your friends and the 8 GB internal storage means there is plenty of space to store all your pictures and music. Similar to the Nokia E7, you also get real-time work and personal emails, maps with free GPS navigation and a fully-integrated social networking experience. The E6 has a customizable home screen, which means you can get the latest Facebook feeds, new emails and news headlines on your home screen. You also have access to all the latest apps via Nokiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ovi Store.

Vodafone 351: For those on a tight budget, the Vodafone 455 is the most affordable touch device available. Its 2.4-inch display incorporates an enhanced user interface for a more enjoyable internet experience with Opera Mini browser built in. The 455 also comes equipped with a handy 1.3MP camera and Bluetooth 2.0. The Vodafone 455 will be available in both black and white colours. The Vodafone 455 is the successor of the popular Vodafone 543 and is expected to sell for a similar price (under QR 300).

Vodafone Qatar offers all of these exciting smartphones. For futher information, visit your nearest Vodafone retail store or visit us online at www.vodafone.com.qa

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Aries (March 21th-April 20th)

»Consider learning a new skill. Things are looking up financially and in general. Your confidence rises in personal and professional relationships. A break or a reduction of the workload may be good for you. Around September 27, the Libra new moon could lead to power struggles and confrontations. Your sense of humour is contagious.

Taurus (April 21th-May 20th)

»Your stubborn determination is both a blessing and a weakness. Changing your strategy might be beneficial. Plenty of optimism, but remain focussed and get to the core of the matter. Make adjustments to keep your life moving forward. Events and dreams will point to solutions that meet your needs. Watch your weight!

Gemini (May 21th-June 20th)

»More stability and enjoyment of your home and family life until mid-September. Things may seem out of your control and need adjustments. Uncertain career situations remain. Keep a balance between work and play. Confidence, creativity and romance are on the increase around 27 September. You could be forced to make a difficult choice towards the end of the month.

Cancer (June 21th-July 20th)

»September is a month of big changes for you. Think about long term goals and don’t make a solid plan just to keep your equilibrium. Spend time with friends at home, and watch your expenses. One chapter ends and another, much greater cycle, is going to shift your inner world into the future.

Libra (Sept 23th-Oct 22th)

»A holiday or retreat may be what you need now. Some quiet time alone, in nature or in a spiritual setting. Clean up loose ends and complete unfinished business. Your imagination is stimulated. You don’t always have to be accessible to everyone. Obstacles seem to complicate your life, but they push you to set new priorities.

Scorpio (Oct 23th-Nov 21th)

»Your social life is becoming more active now, and relationships are enjoyable. Hidden feelings will come out into the open, and you are willing to tackle difficult issues now. Your inner processes will radically transform your outer world. Change may not come the way you had expected it. Don’t lose your temper.

Sagittarius (Nov 22th-Dec 21th)

»Projects that were left undone last month can finally start rolling again. Feeding your soul and connecting with your family are vital. It is better to step back and take things less personally in relationships. Don’t get into debates, but rather put your principles into action.Try to keep your independence in the face of group demands and financial pressures. True freedom comes after thoughtful analysis of your deepest needs.

horoscope

Capricorn (Dec 22th-Jan 19th)

»You may feel very optimistic and selfconfident, but later in the month things can get a bit frustrating and unclear. You need a creative outlet for your energy and this is good time to express your dreams. You may need to fight for what you want. Unexpected changes shake the mountain upon which you climb.

Aquarius (Jan 20th-Feb 18th)

»You can move forward more easily with work-related projects. The way you spend your money and your time may come under scrutiny. On 18 September Mars moves into Leo, enhancing your creativity and confidence to gain the attention you deserve in one-to-one relationships. Towards the end of the month you may feel an urge to escape, but adjustments are needed.

Pisces (Feb 19th-March 20th)

»Both new and existing relationships are harmonious. Life is looking good now. You have a positive attitude. A new romance is possible around September 11, when Venus and Mars are in favourable aspect to each other. It is important to have meaningful and authentic talks with your friends. The second half of the month may leave you feeling a bit frustrated and impatient. Everything will unfold in its own time.

Leo (July 21th-August 22th)

»Your physical energy-level is lower than usual during the first half of the month. Don’t overdo it! Manage your money and resources with care. As Mars enters your sign on 18 September, your confidence increases. Push through barriers that have held you back in the past. Finish old business. Watch out for arrogance and be open to constructive criticism.

virgo

SEPTEMBER STARS

By Milina

Virgo (August 23th-Sept 22th)

»The first half of the month will be pleasant for you. You can logically figure out what you want.Obsessing about details can sometimes prevent you from seeing the big picture. Keep your options open! The mystical realms of fantasy and feelings can get in the way of your perfectionism. Open your heart and trust your emotions.

The full moon in Pisces on September 12 can widen our spiritual horizons. On September 14, Venus enters Libra, and tact and diplomacy will be important. How does this apply to your life?

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