BQ Plus February 2017 by BQ Plus

DJWE 2017

Qatar's lifestyle magazine bq-magazine.com

Issue 8

YOUNG QATARI DESIGNERS TAKE CENTER STAGE

February 2017

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RECYCLE! TIPS TO SETUP A GARDEN CHEF TALK TAKING INDIAN HERITAGE GLOBAL

AWARDS FEVER TOP MOVIES OF THE YEAR

OVERNIGHTER IN THE DESERT FABULOUS FASHION LOOKS QATAR THROUGH YOUR LENS

Yasmian Alsharshani INSPIRING WOMEN ATHLETES IN THE MIDDLE EAST

CONTENTS

CONTENTS February, Issue 8

FASHION & BEAUTY

Qatar's lifestyle magazine

Hair Trends Makeup Trends Winter Skincare Feb Fashion Looks Brand Alert – Massimo Dutti Know Your Brand

06 08 10 12 14 16

LIFESTYLE, FOOD & HEALTH

How to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile Young Qatari Designers at DJWE 2017 Chef Talk Eating Out Made Healthy Fitness Centre Launch Cultivating Inner Beauty Health Food for Underweight Children

17 18 26 30 33 34 36

COVER STORY Meet Qatari Athlete Yasmian Alsharshani

TRAVEL & TECH

Overnight Desert Trip Tech Hacks

38 52

HOME Recycled Garden Carpets – Art for your floors Lounging Office Furniture

54 56 58

ENTERTAINMENT 2016 Best Films Roundup

AUTO

The 2018 Jaguar F-Type Honda Accord Revamped

COMMUNITY Qatar Through Your Lens Pure Lounge Anniversary Color Run Newsbites Events

BQ Plus

60 62

40 42 44 64 67

CONTENTS

Qatar's lifestyle magazine Publisher Gulf Star Group Chairman Mohammed Mansour Rashid Al Khater Managing Director P.K Abdulla Business Director Naveed Abdulla Operations Director Nishad Abdulla Editor-in-chief A.K. Vijay Assistant Editor Kiara Das Design Marx Amante Digital Media Executive Ola Diab Sales & Marketing Manager Bosco Menezes Sales Media Executive Mohamed Ibrahim Rishad P.E Sales & Distribution Star Hospitality General Queries reachus@bqdoha.com T: +974 4491 3761 F: +974 4491 3778 Printers Gulf Publishing and Printing W.L.L. Published by Gulf Star Group PO Box 19177, Doha, Qatar T: +974 4491 3761 Copyright ÂŠ 2016 BQ Plus. BQ Plus is owned and F: +974 4491 3778 published by Gulf Star Publishing, a division of www.bq-magazine .com the Gulf Star Group. No part of this publication

On the Cover: Yasmian Alsharshani

may be produced or copied without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved, use of trademark is strictly prohibited. Gulf Star Publishing takes no responsibility for unintentional errors or unsolicited material. All images not credited are under license from Shutterstock.

READ ONLINE Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle magazine is published every month. Go to www.bq-magazine.com/magazine-content/bqplus Fill in the form below and email it to customercare@gulfstardoha.com or call +974 4491 3761 to pick your hard copy

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EDITORS LETTER

In this issue of BQ Plus Hello readers! February may be the shortest month of the year, but with Valentine’s Day, Qatar National Sports Day and the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) happening, it sure is a packed month. And a packed edition is what we have brought for you this month in BQ Plus. We start off with our fashion, make-up and hair guidelines to make you shine on that special day. And if you thought beauty was all about how you look, think again, as our life coach tells you how to cultivate your inner beauty. The National Sports Day initiative of Qatar is aimed at encouraging fitness and a healthy way of living; we do our bit by bringing you a Zomato Qatar list of some of the best healthy eating out options. Also making a comeback this year is the 5 Km Color Run – don’t miss our special feature on this popular fitness initiative. While many adults face obesity, an equal number of children are underweight. Check out a list of nutritious foods to make your toddler gain those vital kilos. While Qatari men have always excelled in sports, Qatar is encouraging more women athletes to come to the forefront. Yasmian Alsharshani, first Qatari woman in the National Golf team, graces our cover in this issue as she shares her love and ambition for the sport. If all this sporting action has made you tired, check out our travel section to find out how you can make the best of the weather in Qatar and have a relaxing night under the desert skies. Qatar has also been providing a supportive platform for its young talent, giving them opportunities to excel through its Young Qatari Designer’s initiative during the DJWE 2017. Meet two of the designers’ part of this initiative, in an exclusive interview. This is also awards season in Hollywood and we bring you a round-up of the best movies and contenders for the top awards. For those addicted to technology, we also have some useful tech hacks that we hope will help make your life a little easier. And in all this, let’s not forget our environment, read how a few simple tips can help you have a recycled garden that will not just save you money but also save the planet. There is a lot more in this action-packed edition of BQ Plus and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did putting it all together. So, go on and have a fun and fitness-filled February. Cheers

Kiara Das February 2017

FASHION | BEAUTY

THE LOB

HAIR STYLES THAT WILL RULE 2017

Say hi to the lob, this is bobs cousin, only longer; surprise surprise! This hip trend will allow you to rock this look if you still want to be able to tie your hair or are too scared to take the plunge into a bob. The lob is a straight, blunt cut that goes all the way down to your shoulders instead of your chin. The blunt cut helps it look like a bob but is reasonably short.

by Tania Khan

BLUNT BANGS This hairstyle is more on trend with long hair than short hair now. Texture is the key to achieving this look flawlessly. It needs to have a natural quality and easy, blown waves as if you just stepped in from a windy day. If it is difficult for your hair to attain a natural wave, scrunch it with a little bit of product like a mousse or a setting hairspray the night before, make a loose braid and wake up to bouncy waves that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop looking adorable throughout the day.

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GREY HAIR This hair trend is not for the faint of heart, not everyone will want to or be able to pull this daring style off but trust us, this trend is uber chic and can be done in various ways. Grey balayage can be worked for a softer look and a full grey coverage can also be done if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to tip toe around this hair style. A few grey highlights will give a very artsy edge to any look.

FASHION | BEAUTY

NATURAL ROOTS Natural roots look sublime if you have dark hair and want to go lighter. This is another fad that is easy to maintain and saves your hair from a lot of damage, it is like an ombre but closer to the scalp and you no longer have to worry about roots showing because that’s what the whole trend is about.

SLICK HAIR Slick hair either straight, parted in the middle or parted from the side has been gracing the runways and red carpets for a while but is now hitting the streets with full force. You can either tie your hair up in a bun or a ponytail, this style allows flexibility and ease. If done with the right makeup, slick hair will look very voguish and is a breeze to do. All you need is a good quality straightener with a frizz-free serum and you’re good to go. You get to up your glam game with minimal effort, what more does one need?

BRONDE THE HUN The hun is a shorter rendition of the ‘half bun’ and can be a bit tricky to pull off. It requires you to tie half your hair into a top knot bun leaving the other half down with some strands framing your face. This look will require more mirror time but will be worth it if you want to look very much on trend.

You get the best of both worlds in the shade ‘bronde’. It is a combination of both blonde and brown and loosely translates to a caramel-ish shade. The tone of this color can be adjusted to your skin tone and is a truly versatile shade with its transformative abilities. If you’re too afraid to go blonde maybe now is the time to take a stroll in its neighborhood with ‘bronde’.

CORKSCREW CURLS Corkscrew curls are making a major comeback for a light, breezy look. The corkscrew curl will give the volume and bounce that a little bit of back combing and curly hair can give. You can go for the tight curl for a cool 80’s grunge look or keep them loose and flattering for all looks, be it day or night time. February 2017

FASHION | BEAUTY

TIME FOR A MAKE-UP SWAP The term ‘history repeats itself’ cannot be more true for anything but beauty trends. A cycle of old trends becoming new and new becoming old gives make-up geeks the freedom to explore any fad they want to because eventually, it will come back. Here, we will discuss the looks that have been ruling our beauty routine and the ones that are going to take those over. by Tania Khan Metallic/glossy lips It’s time to kiss matte lips goodbye as we enter the metallic lips trend. Last few years gave us some fabulous colors and liquid lips galore in matte shades that filled our beauty Instagram feeds. However, it is officially time to move past the 80’s inspired retro look and embrace a new, flashier lips trend of the glossy or metallic kind. Your lips will thank you for the break from the dryness and welcome the hydration of a gloss. If you want to make a bolder statement, opt for a metallic liquid look.

Radiant skin The time is here to seriously give up the intense contouring, strobing, baking and even worse “clown contouring”. Let your skin breathe and look more alive than porcelain by letting your skins’ natural undertones and radiance pour through. Invest in a good skincare regimen including a good face oil, moisturizer, exfoliator, primer and sunscreen. It will help you look young and is also better for your skin, it’s a win-win all the way!

Natural brows The thick, squared eyebrows with heavy and fully drawn arches seem too intense and overly done now. Instead of making stenciled brows, enhance and use your own shape and avoid drawing around them. Let your brows remain unique to your face and let them be a little undone, a little unruly around the edges and only fill the gaps in between for a softer look. BQ Plus

FASHION | BEAUTY

Lash lifting

Red eye make-up

Move over eyelash extensions, the era of eyelash lifting is here. Unlike eyelash extensions, eyelash lifting does not need external lashes attached to your own, instead it uses a treatment which curls and darkens eyelashes using a tint. The effect leaves you with much fuller, curled and darker lashes for up to eight weeks.

This is not exactly a new trend; it has been around for quite a while but is gaining fast popularity again. Chanel’s make-up artist Lucia Pica teaches us, how to use red to make your eyes look awake and the beauty of wearing red around and on the inner corners of your eyes. It enhances vitality and makes the colors of your eyes pop.

Holographic make-up

Straight eyeliner We personally hate saying goodbye to classic winged eyeliner but it is time to let go of it and envelop a straighter, more to-the-point liner, literally. The winged liner or the cat eye had its run for a long time, but the latest trend of the eyeliner will be more abrupt and smudged. The purpose of this style would be more focused on the eyes and less focused on the art of a neat, winged liner. Now is the time to leave the flawless look behind, going easy on yourself and embracing your natural features rather than overdrawing around them all the time.

The “it” trend making a bigger comeback after a very long time is holographic makeup. Many brands are coming up with products to meet this fad head-on to create a look that feels other worldly. Holographic make-up usually uses one item that can be used as a multi-purpose product. It can be used for artistic looks for a shoot or if you feel like experimenting and looking ethereal. Either way Kat Von D, Lime Crime, Milk and other brands have your holographic needs covered. February 2017

FASHION | BEAUTY

SECRETS OF EXFOLIATION Get soft and glowing skin this winter using Samia Alsaleh’s 10 exfoliation tips for the season.

e’ve all been taught that the secret for clear, beautiful skin starts with a proper cleanse. Of course, staying on your moisturizing game this time of year is crucial, but it’s also essential to keep exfoliation at the top in your winter skincare routine. However, in order to maintain radiant skin, we must begin with regular exfoliation. Throughout the year, our skin goes through changes and is forced to adapt to the revolving seasons. To keep your skin smooth and bright all year round, exfoliating is key. If exfoliation is new to you or you want to learn more about its many benefits, read on to find out some interesting facts and tips about the skin care essential. 1. Your skin exfoliates naturally: When you’re younger, your skin will naturally renew itself about every 25 days. When you reach the age of 30, the process begins to slow down which can result in more pigmentation as well as a duller complexion.

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2. There are many types of exfoliants: Exfoliants come in many shapes and sizes. Whether you choose a manual, chemical or electronic exfoliant, all will help to unveil younger, more radiant skin. There are some differences though. Manual and chemical exfoliants should only be used once or twice a week, while electronic exfoliants are gentle enough to use daily

3. The benefits are endless: With regular exfoliation comes great skin. Not only does it remove dead skin, it also reduces skin discoloration and pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. 4. Choose wisely: Some exfoliants have granules with rough edges which can damage the skin. To prevent any harm, make sure to choose an exfoliant with

FASHION | BEAUTY

rounded beads instead or organic ingredients like oatmeal and sugar.

able to give you the deep clean you are looking for.

5. Waxing counts, too: Waxing your face is also a form of exfoliation. So, if you are planning on waxing an area on your face, make sure you avoid exfoliating your skin before and after your wax to prevent any damage or discomfort from occurring.

9. Exfoliators improve the effectiveness of moisturizers and serums: Because you’ll be using extra lotion in the winter, you’ll want to maximize its power. Do this by exfoliating regularly. The dead cells block moisture from the layers of live skin cells that actually need it

6. When to exfoliate: Many people ask for specifics on the best time to use a physical exfoliant, but it really is dependent on the individual’s habits and lifestyle. Generally, your skin renews itself overnight, so exfoliate your skin in the morning to remove away any dead skin. – that’s if your face is dull in the morning, or if you have oily skin, exfoliating in the am may be best. But if you wear make-up on a daily basis, exfoliating at night would help lift any remaining make-up particles from the skin and ensure that your products are penetrating properly. In general, the basic of home skin care routine is that we should focus on protection in the morning and correction in the evening.

10. You should always follow with a good moisturizer: Moisturizing your skin is one of the best things you can do for younger looking skin because having enough moisture in your skin prevents dryness, flakiness, acne and also wrinkles in the long run. So, scrub on, people!

We cleanse and moisturize in the morning and at night, and keep our more intensive treatments for night before bed. 7. Be gentle: Make sure you don’t scrub your face too often, and when you do, scrub lightly. Rubbing too hard and too frequently will only cause more harm than good to your skin. 8. Don’t forget to remove your make-up: Before exfoliating, it is important to remember to take off any make-up and give your skin a proper cleanse. If you don’t, the exfoliant will not be

Samia Alsaleh is a beauty and make-up expert and the founder of Organique Salon and Spa, Qatar’s first organic salon, which uses natural handmade products made with ingredients grown in their own backyard. You can get in touch with her through Instagram @samiaalsaleh and @organiqueqa. February 2017

FASHION | BRANDS

FEB FASHI N PICKS

Ladies, February is the month of love and dreams. Dress yourself up to your fabulous best with some style tips and pairings by our style experts. Be beautiful and feel confident. BQ Plus

Dress – Sequined and satin long dress from Monsoon Shoes – Red Sandal with gold embellishments from Aldo Bag – Flower embellished clutch from Accessorize Bracelet – Gold and red abstract bracelet from Jude Benhalim’s Urban Rebel collection

Dress – Black off-shoulder dress from Massimo Dutti Shoes – Ankle high booties from Milano Bag – Black clutch from Escada Necklace – Gold and black open necklace from Jude Benhalim’s Urban Rebel collection

FASHION | BRANDS

Dress – Short lace dress with long trumpet sleeves from H&M Shoes – Peep-toe ankle boots with lacing from H&M Bag – Satin hobo bag from H&M Ring – Flower bouquet ring from Accessorize

Top – Lace cropped top from H&M Skirt – Printed skirt from Monsoon Shoes – Black wedges from Hush Puppies Bag – Black leather bag from Cerruti Necklace – Gold mesh choker from H&M Earrings – Gold and black abstract earrings from Jude Benhalim’s Urban Rebel collection

Dress – Red front-tie short dress from Monsoon Shoes – Suede leather metallic high-heels from Massimo Dutti Bag – Red bag from Coccinelle Necklace and Earrings – Gold and red abstract set from Jude Benhalim’s Urban Rebel collection February 2017

Massimo Dutti SS17 Collection Launched The Massimo Dutti Women line clothing for Spring-Summer 2017 season focuses on a chic and urban women, defined by eclectic seventies outfits, which are now invading womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wardrobes. The option for a more modern and feminine style is, without hesitation, with pieces of clothing which represent a perfect balance between classic and modern. On the other side, the Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s line for SS 2017 blurs the line between a smart and casual style. A suit combined with sneakers is a must. The brand offers timeless, versatile, modern and cool proposals to dress men during spring-summer. Shop Massimo Dutti in Qatar in Villaggio Mall and Landmark Mall.

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FASHION | BRANDS

KNOW YOUR BRAND

Brand Name: Louis Vuitton Pronunciation: Loo-ee-vwee-ton Founder: Louis Vuitton Founded: 1854, Rue Neuve des Capucinesm, Paris, France Headquarters: Paris, France About: Louis Vuitton is one of the world’s leading international fashion houses, dealing in products ranging from luxury trunks and leather goods to ready-to-wear, shoes, watches, jewelry, accessories, sunglasses and books. The label is recognized by its monogram LV that appears on most of its products. Louis Vuitton is the world’s 19th most valuable brand and is one of the most counterfeited brands in the fashion world due to its image as a status symbol. Since the 19th century, Louis

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Vuitton trunks have been made by hand and many of the company’s products utilize the brown Damier and Monogram Canvas materials, both of which were first used in the late 19th century. Logo: The monogram – the interlocking L and V with floral pattern was designed by Louis Vuitton’s son, Georges Vuitton, in 1896 as a way to brand his nascent box and luggage business, and in the 120 years since, it’s become one of the most recognizable marks in the world. Unique Selling Point: The brand is one of the oldest fashion brands and is known for its stylish elegant luxurious bags that are now a status symbol. Target Group: Urban men and women looking for premium products. Available in Qatar: Villagio Mall

LIFESTYLE | EDUCATION

HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE LinkedIn releases the most overused words on its profiles in Qatar and tips on how to avoid them.

or the sixth year running, the ‘buzzwords’ were drawn from analysis of millions of profiles worldwide to compile the 10 most used words in the past 12 months. LinkedIn is encouraging ambitious professionals to avoid these buzzwords when they are applying for jobs if they want to get noticed. In Qatar, `Leadership’, bags the top spot, followed by `Specialized’. Additionally, ‘Specialized’ is also this year’s most overused buzzword worldwide on LinkedIn. The top 10 buzzwords in Qatar for 2017 are: • Leadership • Specialized • Experienced • Expert • Excellent • Certified • Strategic • Responsible • Successful • Focused

It is 2017 and it is a great time to start something new, whether it is a new career, building your professional brand, making new connections or even becoming a mentor. Here is some advice for those looking to improve their LinkedIn profile this year: Mind your language Your profile summary is one of the first things people look at, so it is important to get it right. You want the reader to want to know more about you, so start with something punchy. You can do this through specific phrases, storytelling or even clever use of punctuation. Do not be afraid to lead with a short sentence, such as ‘Music is my first love.’ Above all, you should always keep your reader, or customer, firmly in mind. Be direct It is often tempting to speak in the third person when it comes to our working lives – don’t! It is impersonal and will not draw the reader in. Take a professional tone and be

assertive and direct when you are talking about your achievements, Do not hide behind buzzwords or jargon. At the same time, do not shy away from adding some personality to your language – this is a great way to show your character. Make the most of your experience List out all your relevant previous roles and describe what you did in everyday language. This will help people understand the breadth of your ‘work story’ – a complete profile reflects a well-rounded person. Show, do not just tell While language is important, so is showing real examples of your work. Instead of using buzzwords like ‘strategic’, prove it by uploading presentations or projects that bring this to life. These are individual to you and help paint the picture of your special skills and unique background – whether that’s an image from a launch of a big campaign or the blog you write in your spare time. February 2017

LIFESTYLE | EXHIBITION

YOUNG QATARI DESIGNERS TAKE THE STAGE AT DJWE 2017 by Ola Diab BQ Plus

LIFESTYLE | EXHIBITION

he Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) is back and is set to take place from 20 to 25 February, 2017 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). More than 400 renowned international brands alongside emerging local jewelry designers will display their finest work including special editions and unique pieces. The exhibition is open to all lovers of fine watches and jewelry, and represents an opportunity for brands and designers to meet with their potential customers. This year, the DJWE is introducing a new initiative -

Young Qatari Designers - that focuses on the prestige outlook of local jewelry designers. Allocated an exclusive sponsored space, the Young Qatari Designers will be given a platform to promote their brand and showcase their latest collections. The Young Qatari Designers initiative consists of five female Qatari designers including Noor Al Fardan, Nada Al Sulaiti, Sarah Al Hammadi, Fajr Al Attiya, Nouf Al Meer and Ghada Al Bouanain. BQ Plus chats with Nada Al Sulaiti and Nouf Al Meer about

the art of jewelry making and their upcoming appearance at the DJWE 2017.

NADA AL SULAITI

Nada is an award-winning Qatari designer, her keen interest in jewelry design and wearable art led her to study jewelry and gemology in distinguished

institutes across Europe and Asia. 1. Give us a little background what drew you to jewelry-making? I’ve been passionate about jewelry since I was young. I loved art and crafts, and my attention was drawn by everything that sparkled. I cannot pinpoint one thing that has led me to choosing to be a jewelry designer. I believe I was chosen to be one. I t’s in my DNA. Working on a piece of jewelry from design to finish makes me feel whole and gives me inner peace and serenity. Those reasons were enough for me to be a jewelry designer and

start my business, Hairaat Fine Jewellery, which I established back in 2011. We started off as a private jeweler and now, we are moving to opening our first f lagship boutique. 2. What led you to work with jewelry professionally? In 2008, I won my third award in jewelry design. The first two were regional and this one was my first international award. It gave me

confidence that I can compete on an international level and that I have something different to offer to the world of jewelry design even if I don’t come from a family of jewelers. 3. Besides jewelry-making, do you have another occupation? I’m currently a Business Development Director in AMLAK; one of the commercial arms of Qatar Foundation. 4. Have you pursued training or an education in jewelrymaking or designing? Development is vital to excel in your fields, thus I have done a wide variety of courses across the globe starting from Middle East in Qatar and the UAE, going to Europe (UK) and ending up in East Asia (Hong Kong). The courses cover a February 2017

LIFESTYLE | EXHIBITION

10. What are some new pieces you are working on? We, at Hairaat Fine Jewellery, are working on our second masterpiece which is inspired from one of the local plants from Qatar’s desert. It’s a wearable objet d’art. 11. What designs will people see at DJWE 2017? Hiaraat Fine Jewellery will debut its Fine Jewelry collections to the public for the first time. We will be showcasing four of our collections; one of which is a signature collection that took us two years of research and development. Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2016

wide spectrum from art, gemology, jewelry design, jewelry making, and jewelry business courses. 5. Let’s talk about your designs, what look/ style do you go for? Jewelry design is for me is an infusion of art and architecture. It’s actually architecture on a miniature scale. It needs both science as well as art to make the perfect mix. It’s not just about the most expensive gemstones or diamonds, its wearable art. That is reflected in my jewelry pieces. Those pieces should always be timeless and unique. 6. How would you describe the women who wear your jewelry? Hairaat lady is grounded and confident in her style. She is a creature like no other. She turns heads when she walks in a room. She radiates her favorite era and can be both artsy but slightly reserved. She also appreciates the beauty in all things around her. 7. What do you draw inspiration from for BQ Plus

your designs? As a person, I consider myself as a global citizen yet grounded to my roots. I’m rooted to my Qatari, Arabic and Muslim identity, and open to the world. That is reflected in my designs. I work mainly on infusing different cultures and I’m intrigued by the beautiful nature that surrounds me with its all organic shapes.

12. What are your plans for the coming future? Hairaat Fine Jewellery will be opening its first flagship boutique at The Gate Mall in Qatar in the second quarter of 2017.

8. What materials do you work with and why? Precious metals, diamonds, pearls and gemstones with keeping an open eye for exploring different materials that never been used in high or/and fine jewelry. 9. What is your process in creating these pieces? Each piece dictates its own process. I don’t like to be confined to one way as each design comes with its own challenges and each material with its own limitations. Thus, keeping a creative process from design to a finished piece is important for me. Otherwise, we will end up with repetitive, boring and lifeless pieces that lack identity.

NOUF AL MEER

Qatari jewelry designer, Nouf Al Meer, is the founder of Nouf Jewellery, which offers a wide range of diverse and unique items made with different materials and precious stones. The brand

LIFESTYLE | EXHIBITION

is simple, yet creative. Nouf Jewellery addresses the spirit of oriental feminism. Nouf has effectively translated her talent in drawing to high standard jewelry, which evokes the spirit of feminism and blends western fashion and essentials of oriental feminism. Nouf’s pieces ref lect both originality and gallantry, and possess the ability to draw the attention of others and render them spellbound. The diversity includes pieces for all ages and events, notwithstanding the uniqueness of every individual piece. Nouf Al Meer takes her inspiration from her surroundings: nature, environment as well as her social interaction with people. 1. Give us a little background, what drew you to jewelry-making? While looking at jewelry, I would see many beautiful pieces, however i would find myself coming up with many ideas that i did not find in the market. 2. What led you to work with jewelry professionally? Everything I would see was either very expensive or high end, or not good quality, which is why I wanted to make something that was very good quality and at the same time was available at a reasonable price. 3. Have you pursued training or an education in jewelrymaking or designing? No, I studied public relations and graphic design but I took a few design courses. 4. Let’s talk about your designs, what look/ style do you go for? A sense of youthfulness and beauty

prevails upon the Nouf Jewellery pieces, as ref lected by the lines of modernity and the lively colored aff luent gems. Crafted to a unique style, Nouf Jewellery includes a wide variety of rings and bracelets made from yellow and white gold and diamonds. 5. How would you describe the women who wear your jewelry? It lends elegance to the modern woman, giving her that special power of attraction at social occasions, though some modern designs are no longer limited to special occasions and celebrations. They have become suitable for the day-to-day occasions as well. Such occasions give women a unique outlook, ref lecting a sense of dignity and attractiveness. 6. What do you draw inspiration from for your designs? My designs are unique because everything is inspired by something in my life. I take a lot of inspiration from my culture and country. Also i find my designs to be simple yet at the same time statement pieces that can be easily worn. 7. What materials do you work with and why? Nouf jewellery is specialized in unique, cutting edge and wearable designs, offering a wide range of yellow and white gold pieces, with

intricate detailing and studded with colorful gems and internationally certified diamonds. 8. What is your process in creating these pieces? First of all I take inspiration from my surroundings: nature, environment as well as social interaction with people, colors, my traditions and country, Qatar. 9. What are some new pieces you are working on? I’m working on a choker for my latest collection. I think that it’s a very attractive piece and will make any look a little more edgy just by adding it. 10. What designs will people see at DJWE 2017? There will be a lot of Nouf Jewellery collection in the DJWE including the pride collection (horses), blossom collection (butterf lies), mission collection (swords), reveal collection (zipper) and many other designs. 11. What are your plans for the coming future? Future ideas includes consolidation of experiences by arranging special training programs and devoting a lot of my time to studying the vital and positive energy of gems, and its suitability to a woman’s personality and her style of elegance, before drawing the design of her jewel. February 2017

COVER STORY | SPORTS

YASMIAN ALSHARSHANI â&#x20AC;&#x201C; RAISING THE BAR FOR QATARI WOMEN ATHLETES by Kiara Das

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COVER STORY | SPORTS

atar is fast becoming the sporting hub of the Middle East. Since 2012, Qatar dedicated a day as Qatar National Sports Day, which is held annually on the second Tuesday in February, promoting a healthy lifestyle and inspiring athletes to push boundaries. The country is continuously encouraging its citizens and residents to take up sports activities to foster fitness and healthy habits. While Qatari men are at the forefront in sports, Qatari women are not far behind. With adequate support from the country, today, many Qatari women are taking up sports that were earlier considered to be the domain of men. Yasmian Alsharshani has the distinction of being Qatar’s first female golfer and the first woman in the Qatar National Golf Team. Yasmian is not just an athlete, but also a pioneer for the game of golf and all female athletes in the Middle East. She comes from a family of dedicated athletes. Her father was a swimmer and jockey, her brother is a competitive drag racer, her sister, Reem Alsharshani, is a Qatari skeetshooting champion and she has nephews in the National Team Gymnastics for young Qataris and Junior National Golf team. In 2013, Yasmian founded the Qatar Golf Ladies (QGL), the first women’s center for golf in Qatar and the Middle East. The organization pursues community engagement through cultural and educational activities, and includes social, health and recreational elements for women and children. Months after launching QGL, Yasmian was awarded the 2013 Businesswoman of the Year award at the fourth annual Qatar International Businesswomen Forum (QIBF). BQ Plus spoke to the talented young athlete about her

I COME FROM A SPORTS-LOVING FAMILY, ALL THANKS TO MY MOTHER, WHO HAS ALWAYS BEEN VERY ENCOURAGING TOWARDS US CHILDREN aspirations and love for the sport and her hopes for it. Excerpts: How did you develop an interest in sports? I have always enjoyed all forms of sports. I come from a sportsloving family, all thanks to my mother, who has always been very encouraging towards us children. We are a big family of 19 siblings from two mothers. Even my sister Reem is an athlete; she is a champion skeet shooter. I also have nieces and nephews who excel in gymnastics and tennis. Some are in the junior tennis team and others in the junior golf national team. When did you first start playing golf ? I started playing golf at the age of 11. I had traveled to Egypt with my family where my father’s friends invited us for lunch at

an Egyptian golf club. That is where I discovered the world of golf and that was a life-changing experience for me as I fell in love with the sport immediately. After that, whenever we would travel, my mother would look for golf clubs near where we stayed and would take me there to play. Now in Qatar, I train at the Doha Golf Club. How did you get on the Qatar National Golf team? I actually approached the team when they were playing at the Doha Golf Club. They are an excellent team and encouraged me a lot and offered me training and different venues to train. I joined the Qatar National Golf team in 2009; I was the only Qatari woman on the team. In this regard, I would really like to thank Hassan Al Naimi and Fahad Al Naimi for their support of the team members and for February 2017

COVER STORY | SPORTS

encouraging us. They play a big role in my journey in the field of golf. Why do you think more Arab women aren’t getting involved in golf ? Golf is not widespread in the Arab world except in a few Arab countries. Its history began in Britain where it was considered a sport for the rich. Even now, it is more widespread in Europe and America; however, Asia is now beginning to take an interest in the sport, especially Korea. It is not just women; even Arab men don’t take much interest in the sport, especially in the Gulf. But it is slowly changing and we hope that we will see a much bigger change in the near future. What is your opinion about women in sports in Qatar? The presence of women in sports in Qatar has majorly developed from past years. Even the presence of sports in general, in all fields and departments, has greatly developed. This is considered to be the golden age for Arab women as there is more awareness and interest in sports among women. Another development is that now women have started to think of sports as a career option. They are getting more ambitious and are improving their education in sports. It is a profession treated with a lot of respect. Now, the Qatari community has pride in women who choose sports. This is thanks to the State of Qatar and HH Sheikha Moza, who has encouraged and supported women in all fields especially education and sports. Education helps in creating an aware and thoughtful society. What are the various initiatives that you have undertaken to promote golf in Qatar? I established a campaign called ‘Mini Golf For All’. The idea of this BQ Plus

IT IS NOT JUST WOMEN; EVEN ARAB MEN DON’T TAKE MUCH INTEREST IN THE SPORT, ESPECIALLY IN THE GULF. BUT IT IS SLOWLY CHANGING AND WE HOPE THAT WE WILL SEE A MUCH BIGGER CHANGE IN THE NEAR FUTURE

COVER STORY | SPORTS

campaign is to create awareness and educate people of all ages in the community about golf. It was a social sports campaign that also aimed at creating a line of communication between disabled athletes and golf athletes. In 2009, the campaign took off with the joint co-operation of the disabled athletes association, Qatar Golf Club and other associations. An event was held in Katara to promote the campaign, which was a huge success. I have also participated in many local and international conferences representing women athletes and have also been a part of a global sports mentoring program. Tell us about your master’s degree from the International Olympic Academy in Greece. I’m the first Qatari to receive a Master’s degree in Olympic Management from the International Olympic Academy in Greece. The course was in English and lasted about a year and a half. I graduated in 2016. It was an amazing experience for me as I met students from all over the world. There were 22 students in my batch and I learned a lot from

I WANT TO SET AN EXAMPLE TO FEMALE ATHLETES FROM AROUND THE WORLD AND TO MAKE THE NEXT GENERATION OF CHILDREN UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORTS AND ENCOURAGE THEM TO PARTICIPATE IN SPORTS them and their different cultures. It was a cultural exchange experience actually as I also educated them about Qatar, who we are, our culture, current developments etc.

I am very passionate about sports and wanted to pursue an education in the field. The Olympics is one of the biggest sporting events in the world that was established in Greece and so I wanted to learn from there itself. With Qatar getting ready to host the FIFA World cup in 2022, I thought an education in sports management would help me serve at the World Cup. What are your plans? My ambition is to represent Qatar internationally and to raise the bar of Qatari athletes in international competitions. I want to set an example to female athletes from around the world and to make the next generation of children understand the importance of sports and encourage them to participate in sports. February 2017

FOOD | CHEF TALK

Chef Gaurav Singh

IN CONVERSATION

WITH CHEF

GAURAV SINGH by Kiara Das

BQ Plus

he opening of the much-awaited Mall of Qatar, brought with it a slew of international brands that were not available to Qatar patrons before. One of the popular brands that has launched for the first time in Qatar is the award-winning contemporary Indian restaurant, Zafran. This highly-acclaimed bistro that specializes in Northwest Indian cuisine has come to Qatar after experiencing success in the UAE and Kuwait for its inviting ambience, friendly service and a lip-smacking menu that celebrates the subtle and complex flavors of the region, yet remains light on the stomach. Zafran is run by a team of highly skilled and experienced chefs led by noted chef, Gaurav Singh. In a career which started off as a trainee with Starwoods hotels, Gaurav went on to work in prestigious awardwinning hotels in both India and the UAE, before taking over as Brand Chef at Zafran Dubai and Kuwait. He brings with him a passion for authentic Indian cooking and ingredients. He specializes in heritage and modern Indian cuisine taking inspiration from both to produce the delicious meals that Zafran diners expect. He has currently grown into the role of a Culinary and Operations Manager. BQ Plus spoke to Gaurav Singh about his culinary inspirations, challenges and achievements. Take us through your culinary career? On graduating from the Institute of Hotel Management in Mumbai, I started my career as a chef with ITC hotels. After completing training in multiple cuisines, I started handling popular restaurants Bukhara and Dumpuhkt. After working with ITC for 10 years, I moved to Dubai to work at Ashaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, the very popular restaurant created by famous Indian singer, Asha Bhosle. My next assignment was

FOOD | CHEF TALK

with Foodmark (a division of the Landmark Group) with their homegrown brand, Zafran. Currently, I am working as the Culinary and Operations Manager at Zafran. Did you always want to be a chef? I have always enjoyed good food and that developed into a passion for cooking. Ultimately that prompted me to explore a career as a chef.

Main Course Curries at Zafran

Inside Zafran at Mall of Qatar

Growing up in the industry, who was the greatest inf luence on your food? The food industry in India is admirable with many extraordinary cooking legends. As a chef, I always looked up to many role models that I was able to personally interact with. But the most important person who influenced me is Chef Imtiaz Qurashi, who is the Grand Master Chef at ITC Hotels. What is the biggest challenge in your job? Like any other job, the job of a chef is as much wrought with challenges. But the challenges that I face on a daily basis are primarily sourcing the right and the freshest of ingredients. Also equally challenging is finding the right team members with the skill sets that we need for the job. How important is culinary education to be a chef? In my opinion, it is of the utmost importance. A proper culinary education gives a chef not only an understanding of the art and science behind cooking but also a thorough understanding of the commercial aspect of the job, which is very important to succeed in this field.

Kebab Platter

Who is your biggest food critic? My biggest food critic is Indian print and TV journalist, Vir Shangvi, who is also a columnist and talk show host. February 2017

FOOD | CHEF TALK

The ambience at Zafran is friendly and inviting

What are the qualities required to be a chef? There are a lot of qualities that make a good chef. But the most important qualities I feel is a passion for the art of cooking, creativity, patience and the ability to be a good team leader. Tell us more about the concept of Zafran and its menu. Zafran is an Indian Bistro, a home grown brand of the Landmark Group. It offers classic Indian dishes that are very popular globally. Zafran also offers Indian food which is authentic in taste, not heavy for your stomach, is cooked with natural

Shrimp Biryani

BQ Plus

ingredients and stays away from artificial colors. The core menu revolves around the Northwest region of India with the tandoor (the clay oven) being the most important cooking technique. The ambience is unique and the service style follows the philosophy of being caring, engaging and consistent. What item on the menu is a must-try? There are many signature items on the menu, including the Tomato Cinnamon Soup, Dahee Kabab, Feta and Rocket Salad, King Prawns, Bhatti Chicken,

Biryanis and Dal Zafran. Where do you get inspiration for creating a new dish? India, as a country, is very versatile and this versatility and age-old repertoire is one of the biggest inspirations for me in everything that I create. I try to maintain authenticity and flavor in all my dishes and to keep up with the demands of the guests. And because of this, guest feedback is very important for me. Keeping up with global food trends and experiencing new concepts also inspire me. How would you say Zafran is different from other Indian restaurants in Qatar? The entire concept of Zafran is very unique. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new and fresh take on Indian cuisine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not only the ambience, which is unique but also the menu. It promises popular Indian dishes that are light on the stomach and authentic in taste at an affordable price. It is a very honest approach in terms of the F&B offering with great service based on a philosophy of caring, engaging and being consistent. Zafran can truly be your everyday stop for Indian food.

FOOD | FEATURE

Jones the Grocer

TOP 10 HEALTHY EATS IN DOHA by Hala Abdoun for Zomato Qatar

new year, a new beginning, a new you! Self-improvement is the top resolution many of us make when we flip a page to the new year. This includes staying positive, being active and eating right. If you love the food scene in

Dine Smart Restaurant

BQ Plus

Doha but want to start a healthy eating habit, that kale leaf won’t cut it. The latest collection on Zomato, Healthy Eating, has the top go- to spots with delicious, healthy eats. Here’s the Top 10 rated healthy eats from the collection. 10. Crepeaway Where: Al Muthanna Complex, Al Hilal Rating: 3.5 / 5 Lowdown: If you have friends who aren’t really attempting to eat healthy this year, this spot will have you all breaking bread in peace. With a healthy section in the menu listing calories, protein, fiber and carb count, you can chow down at Crepeaway guilt free. 9. Al Jazeera Cafe Where: Building 4, Katara Cultural Village

Rating: 3.6 / 5 Lowdown: Conceptualized by the Al Jazeera network, you can start your day on the right track. Enjoy your meal with the latest news, interactive setting and beautiful ambience. Try one of the fruit smoothies, herbal infused teas or grab a bite knowing you’re doing good by your body and global farms. 8. Dine Smart Restaurant Where: Lulu Hypermarket, Barwa City Rating: 3.6 / 5 Lowdown: We all love to eat while we shop! And Dine Smart wants you to eat smart while you shop. Whether you’re craving Italian, Chinese, a sandwich or a simple salad, you can eat knowing you didn’t ruin your New Year’s resolution to keep it healthy and within budget.

FOOD | FEATURE

7. Salad Boutique Where: Aspire Park, Al Waab Rating: 3.7 / 5 Lowdown: They aren’t just famous for those large bowls of salads anymore. This will be good news for your antisalad eating friends of yours craving risotto, pasta or even a burger. You can dine within the bright ambience, lounging in the oversized chairs indoors or dine under the stars in this cool winter weather. 6. Which Wich Where: Medina Centrale, The Pearl-Qatar Rating: 3.8 / 5 Lowdown: Where the selfproclaimed “superior sandwiches” are made in the heart of The PearlQatar. Grab a sandwich paper bag and like Aladdin, make wishes for the sandwich genies to grant on the

spot. Feeling adventurous? Drop the bread and wish for a lettucewich. 5. Chef’s Garden Where: Marwan Club, Education City Rating: 3.9 / 5 Lowdown: The horses in close distance, the greenery all around, the healthy dishes on the table. Chef’s Garden Where else can you get all three but the Chef’s Garden? Next to the Equestrian Club, you can’t go wrong with the food or view as many of the foodies have raved about it in their reviews. 4. Evergreen Organics Where: Qanat Quartier, Pearl Qatar Rating: 4.0 / 5 Lowdown: Co-founded by renowned Qatari foodie, Ghanim Al Sulaiti, this vegan haven is all about eating and surrounding yourself with wholesome goodness. The very popular fresh pressed juices are now bottled up, so you can take a few on the go until your next visit.

Evergreen Organics

3. Jones The Grocer Where: The Gate, Dafna Rating: 4.1 / 5 Lowdown: With a new healthy menu added to the original, it’s no wonder JTG has climbed up the ranks. Already a popular breakfast spot, this JTG branch is still a top favorite with a die-hard Doha foodie following.

2. Zaatar we Zeit Where: Opposite Souq Waqif Art Center, Souq Waqif Rating: 4.2 Lowdown: With many locations around Doha, the Souq branch tops the list for this popular Lebanese chain. This breakfast hot spot makes you feel all the good feels as you feast on a budget before shopping in the historic bazaar. 1. Meesh Me-Time Cafe Where: Crowne Plaza Business Park, Najma Rating: 4.5 Lowdown: The highest rated

Zaatar we Zeit

healthy eat in the collection is a spot with “me-time” in its name. It’s that kind of attitude that’s captured the hearts of Doha’s inhabitants. Can’t go wrong with a cafe serving up all kinds of healthy goodness, from its fresh brewed coffee to its latest quick bites menu.

What are you waiting for? Download the Zomato app today and bookmark these restaurants to keep that healthy New Year’s resolution going strong!

February 2017

FOOD | FEATURE

ARE YOU A HEALTHY FOODIE?

Do you know what it takes to be healthy? Gather up your friends and test your wits with this edition of the foodie trivia! 1. How many steps should you be taking every day? 2. True or False, starchy carbohydrate foods contain more than half the calories of fats per gram. 3. How many portions of fruit and vegetables should you eat every day? 4. Aside from oranges, what other meat related items provide a natural food source of vitamin D? 5. How many minutes of physical activity should you do every day? 6. How many restaurants are featured in Zomato’s Healthy Eating collection? 7. How many cups (8oz each) of water should you drink every day? 8. What is the most important meal of the day? Share with us your trivia answers on Twitter or Instagram, tag @ZomatoQA and @BQPlus_Doha – #FoodieTrivia – for a chance to enter a raffle, where one of the two winners will recieve a dinner for two and the other a Chinese Cooking Class at Shanghai Club at Shangri-La Hotel Doha. Deadline 5 March, 2017. BQ Plus

9. Fill in the blank: Too much _______ can cause tooth decay. 10. What does BMI stand far?

HEALTH | FITNESS

FITNESS TO THE FORE Qatar welcomes a state-of-the-art fitness facility at The Gate Mall that introduces cutting edge fitness solutions and personalized training across multiple disciplines to athletes and health-conscious patrons.

ackling the wide field of fitness, health and well-being using a unique approach, OxFitness Lab, the country’s newest, training facility has opened its doors in the heart of West Bay, at The Gate Mall. The launch of the fitness facility unveiled a striking and sophisticated array of fitness technologies, training equipment, diagnostic services, analytics, nutrition management, group plus individual fitness programs and tailor made training regimes. The facility is equipped with LifeFitness cardio and strength equipment, multi-functional Queenax bridges, which happens to be the largest in the Middle East and a fully immersive RealRyder studio, Electromyo Stimulation, Pilates Reformer machines, sauna, steam rooms and hot and cold dipping pools. The one-of-its-kind Fitness Lab is the brain-child of Qatar’s

champion sportsman, Mohamed Abu Issa, who personally created its concept and inf luenced the design of OxFitness Lab’s spaces. Abu Issa shared his thoughts on health and well-being saying, “People tend to take care of themselves only when they are ill or if a health problem occurs. A healthy lifestyle will prevent health problems and will boost your energy every day. It has also been scientifically proven that healthier lifestyle leads to improvement of self-esteem and causes better performance and interpersonal success. Our vision is to create a positive lifestyle change through education and the provision of innovative training methods.” He added, “From an international athlete’s perspective, I wanted to design a space that welcomed a beginner and introduced him or her to a whole new world of fitness solutions, without compromising the availability of rigorous training

regimes for professional sports people in the country. I am confident that OxFitness Lab will become the kind of energizing space that gives our patrons the power to make their experience exactly what they want it to be.” The team of professionals on board to serve patrons includes Fitness Trainers who specialize in a wide range of areas from Mixed Martial Arts, CrossFit, Pilates, Yoga to Physiotherapists and Nutritionists. OxFitness Lab offers a specialized health induction pathway to each of its members, which includes consultations, diagnostic analysis, postural analysis, functional movement screening and strength and endurance testing. Among the selection of innovative classes on offer are SkillFit, Myofascial Training, Acro Lab, Proprioceptive Pilates, Animal Movement and RealRyder, placing the facility among one of Qatar’s best. February 2017

HEALTH | WELLNESS

CULTIVATING

Inner Beauty One Shine Moment with Juliette Dumas where she explains how to cultivate one’s inner strength to weather life’s little storms, overcome obstacles and live better.

BQ Plus

HEALTH | WELLNESS

oco Chanel said: “Elegance is when the inside is as beautiful as the outside”. I love fashion but it is not my forte, and while I am always looking for elegance, I realize it is not that easy. I think that it is a natural gift, either you have it or you don’t. I might not have it, but I am perfectly ok with that because I believe I am very good at cultivating my inner beauty. I have understood that inner beauty is a source of incredible wellbeing in my daily life. Since I have taken up these positive practices and filled my mind with good thoughts, I see life through rose-colored glasses, “La vie en rose,” like the famous French song by Edith Piaf. I am sure you know it and perhaps even recall when Lady Gaga sang it in French for Tony Bennett’s birthday last January in Hollywood. The Coco Chanel quote defines my lifestyle and I am sure I am not the only one to believe that “no beauty shines better than a good heart”. Yes, I love quotes (I call them MantraShine), they perfectly define what my shine state of mind is. You shine inside, you glow outside. I would like to suggest that you try to find your inner shine. I am

your shine goal. To guide you, here are 5 basic MantraShine. If you want, you can make them your own.

sure it is there in each and every one of us. At night, when you turn off the light, think about everything positive that happened that day, it will help you channelize your inner shine. We all have this great power to contribute to a radiant life–our own and those of everyone around us. So, let’s channel our inner beauty and do as famous English author, Roald Dahl, said: “if you have good thoughts they will shine on your face and you will always look lovely.” Let’s start with this first step, express your inner beauty with a very simple tip: SMILE. This is

• You can choose Marylin Monroe’s, “A smile is the best make-up any girl can wear” • You can adopt the more straightforward “Smile and the world smiles with you” • You can try “Smile to yourself in the mirror when you get up in the morning” • You can feel the incredible power of “Be the reason someone smiles today” • Or, as I mentioned earlier, you can marry smiling and elegance with “Better to be the one who smiled, than the one who didn’t smile back” Shine on ! Founder of the Shine Academy, author and speaker, Juliette Dumas offers conferences and workshops to learn how to adopt a Shine state of mind. This mindset that she imagined is based on her own story can be incorporated into your daily attitude and way of life. It rests upon a winning trio : common sense, kindness and respect. For more information about her, visit www.juliettedumas.paris

February 2017

HEALTH | TIPS

HEALTHY FOOD FOR WEIGHT GAIN IN CHILDREN

oung children often grow taller before they gain weight, and as a result, they end up below the normal weight-for-height on the growth charts. If this happens, it is important that you increase the nutrients in your child’s diet to ensure he or she is getting

sufficient calories and nutrients for growth and development. Parents of underweight children may be inclined to feed them high calorie foods to boost their weight. However, eating healthy and making sure that kids are getting enough nutrition—not just calories—is more important. Here is list of nutritious

high– calorie food to help children gain weight in a healthy manner: Protein-Rich foods like fish and beans: Proteins help with your child’s growth and muscle development. Fish is a great option because they’re also rich in Omega-3, which has been proven to help with different aspects of a child’s development. Beans, on the other hand, are packed with vitamins and minerals. Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein, and around 100g of eggs contain 13g of protein. There are tons of ways you can introduce eggs into your kid’s everyday meals. Eggs are also packed with Vitamin A and Vitamin B12, which are essential for the normal growth and development of a child. An egg a day will actually eliminate the need for supplementary vitamins.

BQ Plus

HEALTH | TIPS

Nutritious carbs: Refined carbohydrates like white rice cause spikes in sugar levels, so instead of piling on more white rice onto your child’s plate, go for more nutritious options. Whole grains

Cheese and whole milk: Cheese is high in calcium—great for bone growth—and most kids love it! As cheese by itself is savory, you don’t have to pair it with another flavorful snack. Try lowsalt biscuits instead. Whole milk is good for underweight children because it is rich in calcium and fat. Energy-dense fruits like bananas and avocados: These fruits are packed with calories, and are great treats! You can turn them into smoothies or an obvious healthier choice over other fatty foods. Use ripe avocado pulp as spreads or dips. Nuts and Seeds: Kids who love crunchy snacks would enjoy nuts and seeds, which are high in mono- and polyunsaturated fats that help with cholesterol. For young children that could choke on nuts or seeds, go for nut butters or smoothies instead.

are high in fiber and have tons of health benefits, but it is difficult for young children to digest, and could make the child feel full too quickly. Go for potatoes, pumpkin, and other root vegetables. Oatmeal: Oatmeal is rich in fiber and vitamins and minerals. Mix with whole milk and fruit for a delicious meal or snack. For younger kids, you can use ground oats for a smoother version.

serve them as part of a dessert. Apart from proving to be a good natural source of energy, a single banana is packed with 105 calories. They also provide essential carbohydrates that help your kid put on some ‘healthy fat.’ Avocados are another great pick for underweight children, since they are rich in fats and caloriesboth of which are needed for a growing child. They are also rich in nutrients, which makes them

Yoghurt: Because yoghurt is easy to eat and is good for gastrointestinal health, yoghurt is perfect for young children. However, stay away from sugary options that are high in artificial flavors, and opt for plain yoghurt instead. February 2017

TRAVEL | STAYCATION

OVERNIGHT TRIP TO QATAR’S

BREATHTAKING DESERT by Mohannad Bitar

f you want to make the best out of Qatar’s cool winter weather, then the desert is definitely the place to go to. A friend of mine from Chicago was visiting the Middle East for the first time, so I organized an overnight desert trip, which was also a first time for many of the people, who joined us. Shortly after sunset, we arrived at the Sealine Beach in Mesaieed, which is about an hour’s drive from Doha city. We immediately unloaded the car, set up camp, set the chairs and started the fire for a BBQ dinner. As the night went on, we indulged in different activities,

BQ Plus

which was a great change from what we do on a day-to-day basis in the modern world in the city. We had a great time relaxing, listening to music as we ate and bonded with one another. Through the night, we watched the stars and bonded with each other. Two creative and talented photographers, who are also friends of mine, did some amazing light painting or drawing, which is a photographic technique, using handheld lights to paint and/or draw in a scene while the shutter of a camera is left open during a long exposure photograph. Anyone who was tired slept in

the cars, and then we woke up the next morning to watch the breathtaking sunrise by the sea. Take a trip to the desert before the heat kicks in! It can get quite chilly especially at night, so don’t take the weather lightly. Getting there, you need a powerful fourwheel car with space to put in all of the necessary equipment for the trip. In our case, we had a Chevrolet. A relatively experienced driver is recommended. Equipment such as a BBQ set, food, water, blankets, chairs, mats, and wood (or coal) for a bonfire and BBQ. Don’t forget trash bags to clean up!

TRAVEL | STAYCATION

Also known as Mr. TIQ, Mohannad Bitar is the founder of This is Qatar (TIQ), blogging about Lifestyle and adventure including fashion, food and travel.

February 2017

COMMUNITY | PHOTO OF THE MONTH

“Life has a lot of bright sides; all we just need to do, is look for it carefully” Magic Festival City, Katara – Mohamed Aboelezz, Egyptian

THROUGH

Y UR LENS I woke up early, took a stroll along the Corniche, and was lost in the beauty around me. The feeling of watching a foggy sunrise over the quiet waters of the sea on a chilly winter morning is unbeatable. – Nashi, Indian

BQ Plus

COMMUNITY | PHOTO OF THE MONTH

I clicked this picture to represent two simple but very important things in my life, art (represented by steel plate) and love (represented by my girlfriend). – Américo Diogo Rodrigues Cunha, Portuguese

Art and love are the same thing: It’s the process of seeing yourself in things that are not you. – Shalome Pinto, Indian

Qatar's lifestyle magazine

When life gets blurry, adjust your focus. – Dionne Lobo Marks, Indian

In collaboration with This is Qatar (TIQ), BQ Plus has launched #QatarThroughYourLens photography campaign on Instagram where photographers share their photographs of Qatar. Want your photographs published in BQ Plus? All you need to do is post a Qatar-themed picture on Instagram, using the hashtag #QatarThroughYourLens and tag us, @thisisqatar and @bqplus_doha.

February 2017

COMMUNITY | NIGHTLIFE

PURE LOUNGE TURNS ONE! by Ola Diab

he vibrant nightlife in Doha is strongly booming, leaving night crawlers with many club scene options. One of the most popular nightspots in the city is PURE Lounge, which recently completed its first anniversary on 9 February, 2017. PURE Lounge is located on the 15th floor of Double Tree by Hilton Doha – Old Town Hotel, with a capacity of up to 600 people. It features numerous international DJs and has live performances from 6 pm to 2 am. The classy and elegantly designed rooftop has a spectacular view over Doha’s skyline with an open air bar located directly next to the pool. As PURE marks its first anniversary, BQ Plus talks to PURE Lounge’s General Manager, Chris Muth, and Food & Beverage Manager, Hazem ElBahnasy, about their first year of success. What is PURE and its concept? The name already reveals the concept: PURE stands for

simplicity, fun and no attitude. PURE performances start at 6 pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays with DJ Andrew Harris. On other days, the live entertainment begins at 9 pm (DJ EricM and DJ Alexa Rich). The theme and desired guests are simple: be fun, be cool but most important come without attitude because at the end of the day, we all just want to enjoy the night. Our team is young, vibrant

Hazem ElBahnasy, PURE Lounge’s Food & Beverage Manager

and unique while incorporating the PURE concept. The most famous weekly offers are: weekend grooves on Thursdays and Fridays, detox on Saturdays (50% off selected beverages), Cinderella moments (ladies night) on Sundays, all night happy hour on Mondays and specials on Wednesdays (50 % off). What makes PURE Lounge standout in the booming nightlife scene in Qatar? • Being fabulous, eccentric or arrogant – PURE stands for no attitude • Open air rooftop lounge on the 15th floor of the Double Tree by Hilton – Old Town Hotel • Stunning views of the sunset in the late afternoon and the moonrise in the evening • Honest pricing • An additional asset is of course the recently added shisha offer. Blow the smoke and blow away all your worries. At PURE, you are entering another dimension. • But what is most important is our team. Everyone is part of the PURE project. A young

COMMUNITY | NIGHTLIFE

and dynamic team that just gets you – everyone has his or her small fan base. From the hostess to the waiter to the DJ. The idea behind the brand is to be simply…PURE. Who is your target audience? Our targeted audience is anyone who is in the mood for great music, sumptuous beverages and exciting theme nights. The age doesn’t matter and as long as you have the spirit to celebrate life you’re welcome to join us. The area of Old Salata is attracting more and more guests from all around town which ensures a great mixture of clientele. What are the advantages and disadvantages in terms of location and being an outdoor lounge? Let’s start with the disadvantages! Oh well, actually it is just one: the weather – but we manage. If it is cold, we have heaters, blankets and refreshments. If it is raining, let’s just start dancing in the rain – taking the party to a whole new level. And if it is summer time? Desert coolers and cold beverages. But what is the best thing to do when you’re feeling cold, stressed or tired – dance! The definite advantage is the location: have you seen Doha’s skyline at night? Additionally, it is located close by some main attractions: Souq Waqif and the MIA. After a busy day of

a versatile resource on stage. • DJ EricM – producer and song writer with an innate talent to mix international sounds into one glorious magical wonder. • DJ Alexa Rich – he is regularly booked for celebrity parties including the closing party at the Monaco Rally for Prince Albert of Monaco.

Chris Muth, PURE Lounge’s General Manager

discovering the city, you earned to just sit, relax and have some shisha with a view at PURE. Does PURE Lounge also host events? We are hosting different events every day of the week. The most well-known ones are: detox on Saturdays (50% off), all-night happy hour on Mondays, the weekend grooves (Thursday and Fridays). PURE was hosting Sundowners, MoFunk last year and continues its musical success with our new resident DJs: • DJ Andrew Harris – he performed for the biggest brand in electronic music: The Ministry of Sound. He is a selfconfessed musical geek and is

And we just introduced “A Cinderella moment” for our ladies night. A Disney inspired reward for all the ladies in town – on Sundays all that matters are your shoes. The woman with the prettiest pair of high heels will be selected the day after and the picture of her shoes will be published on social media. To claim her prize, she must bring her high heels to PURE. What can your repeat guests look forward to? As easy as it sounds: recognition! We know their favorite beverages, tables and music. That’s the basic concept. But there is more to it, we ask them and listen to their opinion: which DJs to invite, which offers to consider, etc. What role does decor play in your Lounge? We are a no decoration heaven – we keep it simply PURE with elegant furniture and a simplistic minimalism when it comes to the decoration. Any upcoming events, offers/ promotions, or updates our readers should know about? February will be the month of music journey. We have the best international and diverse set of DJs: DJ EricM (South African), DJ Andrew Harris (Canadian) and DJ Alexa Rich (Russian). In addition, we offer 30% discount for teachers, hoteliers, bankers and airliners. To stay up-to-date and never miss a party, follow us on Facebook and our website: https://www.facebook. com/PURErooftoplounge/ February 2017

COMMUNITY | SPORTS

RUNNING IN FLYING COLORS by Ola Diab

ne of the biggest events in Qatar, The Color Run, this year, saw participation from over 7,200 people, making it the biggest edition of The Color Run so far. The third edition of the ‘Happiest 5K on the planet’ that took place on 28 January, 2017 at Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), brought a new theme to Doha through its Tropicolor World Tour, which brought the all-new Tropicolor Zone where Color Runners were bathed in tropical array of colors. The event is presented annually by Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First, a health campaign launched by Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar (WCM-Q). The main reason thousands of

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people flock to The Color Run is to be coated from head-to-toe in an array of colors each kilometer of the run, which is divided into five Color Zones, until the finish line. To celebrate health and happiness, and encourage participants to focus on their health and well-being, The Color Run welcomes participants to walk, jog, skip or run. Most color runners walk the 5k, very few actually run. But my friends and I did. Yes, we ran the whole 5k! This was my second Color Run but it’s the first time I attempted to run it. I attended the first edition of the Color Run in 2015 but I just walked the whole distance, completing it in about an hour or so. This year, my friends and I completed the Color Run – running the whole way– in about 36 mins. It was a challenge but a rewarding one.

COMMUNITY | SPORTS

February 2017

COMMUNITY | SPORTS

Tips for future Color Runners: • Parking is a hassle. Try to be there an hour before the run starts. Park properly or you will be fined. I spotted several cars with parking fines. • If you’re going as a group, go together in one car. It’s faster, more efficient, and you won’t have to waste time finding each other in the Warm-up Zone. It can get very crowded! • Run! Aim to jog or run especially if you’re a former Color Runner. Push yourself! • To avoid breathing in the color powder or having it accidentally in your eye, wear eye glasses or goggles, and a mouth mask. • Bring a blanket or cloth to cover the seats of your car once you’ve completed the run. • Once you’ve completed the run, don’t miss the Finish Festival, which features more entertainment and activities including music, photo opportunities and massive color throws. It’s the most fun part. Bust some moves and get covered in more colors!

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ENTERTAINMENT | AWARDS

AWARDS SEASON: BIGGEST FILMS OF 2016 by Ola Diab

t’s film awards season, and it kicked off on a high and controversial note. As movies La La Land, Moonlight, Lion, Hidden Figures and Fence make headlines during awards season, actors such as Meryl Streep, Mahershala Ali, Julia LouisDreyfus, Ashton Kutcher, Taraji P. Henson and more took the stage to address their disapproval of US President Donald Trump’s policies. Awards season, especially the Oscars, were frequently criticized for being “white”, which triggered last year’s #OscarsSoWhite controversy. This year, the awards present a relatively good line up of

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diversity. This awards season is specifically special for African Americans films and actors, with Moonlight, Hidden Figures and Fences all being nominated for Oscars. We’re more than halfway through the awards season now. The Golden Globes took place on 8 January, followed by the People’s Choice Awards on 18 January. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards 2017 was on 29 January and BAFTA Awards is on 12 February. And now, we’re just waiting on the biggest of them all - the annual Academy Awards (Oscars) 2017 on 26 February. Moonlight and La La Land,

two of the biggest movies of 2016, will face off at the awards, as each ranked in the most nominations across all categories. Have a look at the biggest movies of the awards season this year: La La Land A romance musical that explores the joy and pain of pursuing your dreams. Pianist Sebastian falls for an aspiring actress Mia in Los Angeles. The two are drawn together by their common desire to do what they love. But as success mounts, they are faced with decisions that begin to fray the

ENTERTAINMENT | AWARDS

fragile fabric of their love affair, and the dreams they worked so hard to maintain in each other threaten to rip them apart. Director and writer: Damien Chazelle Stars: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone Awards and nominations: The film has received a record of 14 Oscar nominations including Best Motion Picture and Best Original Screenplay; seven awards at the Golden Globes where Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy (Ryan Gosling) and Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy (Emma Stone); 11 BAFTA Awards nominations. At the SAG Awards, Emma Stone won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role and Ryan Gosling was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role.

Moonlight A timeless story of human self-discovery and connection, Moonlight chronicles the life of a young black man from childhood to adulthood as he struggles to find his place in the world while growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami. A groundbreaking portrait of contemporary African American life reverberates with universal truths and its portrayal of the moments, people, and unknowable forces that shape our lives and make us who we are. Director: Barry Jenkins Writers: Barry Jenkins (screenplay), Tarell Alvin McCraney (story by) Stars: Mahershala Ali, Shariff Earp, Duan Sanderson Awards and nominations: The film received eight Oscar nominations including Best Motion Picture of the Year and Best Adapted Screenplay; four BAFTA Awards; six Golden Globes awards, winning

the Best Motion Picture; and three SAG Awards, where Mahershala Ali won Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role. Hidden Figures Based on book by Margot Lee Shetterly, Hidden Figures is based on a true story where a team of three African-American women - Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary

Jackson - provide NASA with important mathematical data needed to launch the programโ บs first successful space missions and one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Director: Theodore Melfi Writers: Allison Schroeder (screenplay), Theodore Melfi Cast: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monรกe Awards and nominations: The film received three Oscar nominations including Best Motion Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay; two Golden Globes; one BAFTA Award and two SAG Awards. The film won the Screen February 2017

ENTERTAINMENT | AWARDS

Fences

Actors Guild (SAG) Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. Lion Five-year-old Saroo gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India, away from home and family. Saroo must learn to survive alone in Kolkata, before

ultimately being adopted by an Australian couple. Twenty five years later, armed with only a handful of memories, his unwavering determination, and a revolutionary technology known as Google Earth, he sets out to find his lost family and return to his first home. Director: Garth Davis Writers: Saroo Brierley (adapted from the book “A Long Way Home”), Luke Davies (screenplay) Stars: Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman, Rooney Mara Awards and nominations: The film has been nominated for six Oscars including Best Motion Picture of the Year and Best Adapted Screenplay; and four Golden Globes awards; five BAFTA Awards, and two SAG Awards. Fences A working-class African-American father tries to raise his family in the 1950s, while coming to terms with the events of his life. Troy Maxson, a mid-century Pittsburgh sanitation worker, once dreamed of a baseball career but was too old when the major leagues began admitting black players. He tries to be a good husband and father, but his lost dream of glory eats at him, and causes

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him to make a decision that threatens to tear his family apart. Director: Denzel Washington Writers: August Wilson (screenplay, based upon his play “Fences”) Stars: Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen Henderson Awards and nominations: The film has been nominated for four Oscars including Best Motion Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay; two Golden Globes, where Viola Davis won Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture ; one BAFTA Award; and three SAG Awards, where Viola Davis won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role and Denzel Washington won Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role. Manchester by the sea One damp winter day, Lee Chandler gets a call summoning him to his hometown, north of the city. His brother›s heart has given out suddenly, and he›s been named guardian to his 16-yearold nephew. The uncle is asked to take care of his teenage nephew. His return to the past re-opens

ENTERTAINMENT | AWARDS

an unspeakable tragedy. Director and writer: Kenneth Lonergan Stars: Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler Awards and nominations: The film is nominated for six Oscars including Best Motion Picture and Best Screenplay; six BAFTA Awards; and four SAG Awards; and four nominations at Golden Globes, where Casey Affleck won Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama. Hell or High Water A divorced father and his ex-con older brother resort to a desperate scheme in order to save their family›s ranch in West Texas. Vengeance seems to be theirs until

they find themselves in the crosshairs of a relentless, foul-mouthed Texas Ranger looking for one last triumph on the eve of his retirement. As the brothers plot a final bank heist to complete their plan, a showdown looms at the crossroads where the last honest law man and a pair of brothers with nothing to live for except family collide. Director: David Mackenzie Writer: Taylor Sheridan Stars: Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges Awards and nominations: The film is nominated for four Oscars including Best Motion Picture and Best Original Screenplay; and three Golden Globes Awards; three BAFTA Awards 2017; and one SAG Awards, where Jeff Bridges was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role. Arrival When twelve mysterious spacecraft appear around the world, linguistics professor Louise Banks is tasked with interpreting the language of the apparent alien visitors. As nations teeter on the verge of global war, Banks and her crew must race against time to find a way to communicate with the extraterrestrial visitors. Hoping to unravel the mystery, she takes a chance that could threaten her life and quite possibly all of mankind. Director: Denis Villeneuve Writers: Eric Heisserer (screenplay), Ted Chiang (based on the story “Story of Your Life”) Stars: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker Awards and nominations: The film received eight Oscar nominations including Best Motion Picture and Best Adapted

Screenplay; eight BAFTA Awards; two Golden Globes awards; and one SAG Award. Hacksaw Ridge The true story of WWII American Army Medic Desmond T. Doss, who served during the Battle of Okinawa, refused to kill people and saved 75 men during battle. He was the first American soldier to fight in WWII frontlines without firing a single shot

and the first man in American history to receive the Medal of Honor without firing a shot. Director: Mel Gibson Writers: Robert Schenkkan (screenplay), Andrew Knight (screenplay) Stars: Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey Awards and nominations: The film was nominated for six Oscars including Best Motion Picture; three Golden Globes Awards; five BAFTA Awards; and two SAG Awards. Source: IMDb February 2017

TECH | TIPS

15 TECH HACKS

TO MAKE LIFE EASIER No one can resist the power of a game-changing secret, especially when it comes to the many gadgets and technology that we use daily. There are many technology related tips and tricks out there that can totally simplify your daily routine and make life much easier in general. There are many “tech hacks” that offer simple solutions to everyday digital setbacks. Here, we list our favorites:

1. Your Apple headphones double as an iPhone camera remote. To take a selfie using your headphones, aim your phone, and then push the + button on your Apple ear buds remote while the camera app is open.

2. LEGO mini-figs are perfectly shaped to hold your Apple lightning cords and other cables. Just stick a LEGO brick on your work desk, then attach a mini-fig, and run your cords through its hands.

3. Someone needs to use your iPhone to make a call? Use Siri from the lock screen to make the call. The person has no access to any other app on your phone this way.

5. Take a picture of business cards people hand you, just in case you lose them.

4. Need a mirror fast? Turn on your smartphone’s front-facing camera, like you would when you take a selfie.

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6. On a laptop, hitting the Spacebar scrolls down a web page; hitting the Spacebar + Shift lets you scroll back up.

TECH | TIPS

9. When booking flights or hotels online, clear cookies before you start looking, or shop in Incognito mode, for lower prices.

7. If you need to remember the time for something, make a missed call to any number to get a (very precise) timestamp. 8. The easiest way to crank up your smartphone’s speaker volume is using an empty cup. Just dump the phone in the glass with the speakers facing down; just make sure the glass is clean.

12. Someone’s incessant morning alarm is going off but the owner is refusing to get up and turn it off? Call the phone to turn it off for them.

10. The best type of music to work to is a video game soundtrack because they are designed to not mess with your focus. 11. For an equal split of sound of your tunes when sharing your headphones with a friend, turn on the Mono audio option on your phone.

13. To prevent sending emails to the wrong person, write your email first, and write your recipient last.

14. Find yourself in a hotel without your charger? Check the TV for a USB plugin.

15. When your internet connection goes out and the Google Chrome browser gives you an error page, press the spacebar to start a T-Rex game. At least you won’t be bored while you wait to get online again.

February 2017

HOME | GARDENING

Recycling ideas for your garden by Kiara Das

Do you want to transform that tfront yard into a lovely and unique garden but don’t want to spend too much on garden and décor supplies? Here we give you some creative ideas to develop a personalized garden that won’t empty out your wallet.

POTS You don’t have to spend a bundle on buying fancy pots for your plants. Virtually any container can be used to plant in just so long as it has adequate drainage i.e. sufficient holes for water to seep out. Some cheap creative ideas for containers include tin cans, plastic bottles with the tops cut off, old drawers, baskets, colanders, funky old boots, icecream tubs, polystyrene fruit boxes and old canvas bags. If you like, you can even paint your containers with similar colored paints so they all look nice and co-ordinated in your garden. You can also use old cycle or car tyres as planters. BQ Plus

HOME | GARDENING

SEED STARTER POTS Eggshells make the perfect seed starter pots. When you break open your eggs, try to break just a small hole at the pointy end of the egg, clean the inside of the eggshell with boiling water and punch a few small holes carefully at the bottom for drainage. You can replace them back in the carton, fill them with moist potting soil and add your seeds. Once the seedlings outgrow their pots, you can transplant them into you big pots with the eggshell. Eggshells are not only biodegrade quickly but also make great fertilizers.

WATERING Plastic containers with handles like two-liter milk or juice bottles make very good watering cans. Just wash out your bottle and punch a few holes on the lid. These are very suitable for children as they are light-weight and they can decorate them with their own names. This also encourages kids to do their own watering.

SELF-IRRIGATION Who needs an expensive sprinkler system, when you have plastic bottles to recycle. A plastic bottle makes an efficient soil watering system. Just punch a few holes around the base of a bottle and then bury the bottle beside a new plan with just the lid showing up. Unscrew the lid and fill it up with water. You can now have a slow release watering system where the plant gets water right at the roots where it is most required. For potted plants, you can use the same system but by cutting off the bottom and punching a few holes on the lid. Reverse the bottle so the lid rests on the soil and it looks like a funnel. Fill with water and let your plant feed slowly.

February 2017

HOME | INTERIOR

CARPETS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FINE ART FOR YOUR FLOOR by Kiara Das

f you want to decorate your floor, nothing can do it better than a Turkish carpet. A Turkish carpet or rug can give your home a rich, Persian feel and a very extraordinary look. Turkish carpets can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands depending on its authenticity and quality. One of the finest carpets in the world is considered to be carpets from Hereke - a small Turkish coastal town that lies halfway between Istanbul and Izmit. Hereke carpets were recently on display in Qatar at the Hereke Carpet Exhibition held at The Gate Mall as a collaboration between Salam International Investment Ltd and Han Hali, Turkeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading production house of Hereke carpets. The exhibition featured some of the finest pieces from the Han Hali Hereke carpet collection with many intriguing designs including Classical Hereke with fabulous Ottoman motifs, Turkish-Islamic designs that celebrate the illustrious transition to Islam and Istanbul Voyage, a picturesque collection of fascinating panoramas of Istanbul. The 100% handmade Hereke silk carpets customarily carry 64 knots and over loops per centimeter, making it a tribute to the unending patience of its weaver. A Hereke weaver is said to tie at least one million knots in a finished carpet, while crafting extremely intricate, fine designs. These carpets were earlier created exclusively for the Ottoman palaces but later on began to be given as gifts to royal families and heads of states. Today, these carpets

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adorn the walls and floors of many homes all over the world. There are Hereke carpets in the White House and Buckingham Palace and many other landmark buildings. There are several features that distinguish Hereke carpets from others: Origin: Genuine Hereke carpets are only made in Turkey. Quality: Hereke carpets are recognized as the finest handmade carpets in the world because: Genuine Hereke carpets are 100% handmade. The fineness of knotting in Hereke carpets is superior. Technique: Hereke carpets are only constructed using the Turkish double knot. Materials: Only the finest silk from Bursa is used in the production of Hereke silk carpets. Buying a Hereke carpet is not just shopping but an investment. These carpets are not cheap and rightfully so, as with these carpets you are also buying a piece of history and antiquity to adorn your house. Also, they are very durable; you may die but your Hereke carpet will live on for the next generation to enjoy.

HOME | INTERIOR

A carpet or rug can make or break a room. So, if you have decided on buying a carpet, be it a Hereke carpet or a cheaper alternative, there are a few things to keep in mind. Color Color is the first thing to consider when buying a carpet. If your space is already very colorful, you might want to stick with a single-color rug, either a neutral or a shade which complements your existing furnishings. But if you are starting your furnishings with the carpet, you can go in for a patterned rug with many shades, and add in furniture and accessories that coordinate afterwards. A boldly patterned or brightly colored rug can lift a room to the next level. Size Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t skimp on size. Your rug should fit the size of your seating area in a way that all the furniture will be on the rug or at least the front legs. The idea is that when you are seated, your feet are on fabric and not the floor. Under a dining table, you want to be able to pull the chairs back and still have them sitting on the rug. Texture You can get different textures in your room for a rich and layered feel by choosing a suitable rug. If your couches are of a soft fabric like velvet, go for a smooth and hard rug while on the other hand something with a long fluffy pile looks best with a sleek leather sofa. However, keep practicalities like ease of cleaning in mind. Also consider if elderly or young children will be using the area, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want your rug to be a tripping hazard.

February 2017

HOME | DESIGN

TURNING WORKING TO LOUNGING

aintaining focus is a costly problem for workers today. We get interrupted or distracted every 11 minutes, and neuroscientists have found it takes over 23 minutes to get back on task. Given the rise in open plan offices in today’s work environment and the subsequent need for moments of employee solitude, researchled furniture manufacturer, Steelcase, has designed a unique work lounge for the workplace. Called the Brody WorkLounge, it creates a shelter from visual distractions and provides privacy and an enhanced sense of psychological security for workers. It claims to offer the ideal microenvironment for people who need a place to get away, without going away. Typical lounge chairs are designed for waiting, not working. While most lounge spaces look comfortable, they provide little ergonomic support. Today’s offices and universities are often open and exposed, providing little to no

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control over visual distractions. Brody is a combination of lounge area and work space. Walls cover two sides of the area, protecting a user from outside visuals. The front panel of the Brody includes a stand for a laptop, ergonomically angled upward, plus a flat table for notes, books and other reference material. Beneath the stands is a storage area for bags and other personal belongings. Outlets are located beneath the chairs. Providing high-performance comfort and support, the Brody WorkLounge features patented LiveLumba technology— integrating ergonomic comfort and personal storage, so you can focus your attention, get into the flow and get work done. The adjustable, personal work surface holds technology at eye level, reducing neck and shoulder strain and supporting the varied working styles and ample device usage of today’s workplace. A smart alternative to enclaves, the Brody WorkLounge transforms underutilized, in-between spaces into coveted destinations.

AUTO | LAUNCH

JAGUAR F-TYPE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A CLASS APART Already recognized as the most dynamically capable, performance-focused Jaguar, the F-TYPE sports car continues to evolve, with a fresh look and state-of-the-art infotainment to enhance the driving experience. BQ Plus

AUTO | LAUNCH

ince its launch in 2012, Jaguar’s all-aluminium two-seater has firmly established itself as the best-selling sports car in its segment in its home market and has won nearly 160 awards worldwide. Let’s have a look at what is new in the 2018 model. WHAT’S NEW IN THE DESIGN For the 2018 model, the front end look becomes clearer and more powerful, with LED headlights adding a technological edge. The improved aesthetics are more than matched by performance and functionality: light from the LEDs has a colour temperature of 5,500-6,000K, making it similar to natural daylight. Putting higherquality light on the road improves visibility, helps to alleviate fatigue on long drives and makes it easier for drivers to spot hazards earlier. In place of its predecessor’s double ‘shark gill’ apertures, the new F-TYPE features large, powerful single apertures with a lozenge mesh design. Inside, lightweight slim line seats deliver more style, more room and greater comfort. A harmonious selection of new interior finishes and materials give the F-TYPE a more exotic feel.

WHAT’S NEW IN THE MODEL Unrivalled driver appeal: F-TYPE 400 SPORT Launch Edition Jaguar has developed the exclusive 400 SPORT launch edition that will be offered worldwide but for one model year only. The 400 SPORT features an updated version of the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 with maximum power increased from 380PS to 400PS. Customers will be able to choose between rear- and all-wheel drive to suit their preferred driving style. Distinctive Yellow and Dark Satin

Grey 400 SPORT badges on the front and rear hint at the 400PS beneath the clamshell bonnet and perfectly complement the choice of Indus Silver, Santorini Black or Yulong White paint.

WHAT’S NEW IN INFOTAINMENT AND CONNECTIVITY World-first app: ReRun True enthusiasts will be able to capture and share their driving experiences using the new ReRun app developed in collaboration with GoPro. In a world-first, ReRun enables real-time video from the GoPro camera to be overlaid with key performance data from the new F-TYPE, including speed, throttle position, gear selection, braking force, g-force and steering wheel angle. The data is displayed using animated gauges. World-class infotainment technology: Touch Pro Touch Pro is the most advanced infotainment system ever offered by Jaguar and is now standard equipment across the entire F-TYPE range. Designed and developed around state-of-the-art technologies including a powerful quad-core processor, high-speed 60GB Solid-State Drive (SSD) and an ultra-fast Ethernet network, Touch Pro delivers world-class performance and functionality and an outstanding user experience. Excellence as standard: Meridian Audio InControl Touch Pro provides outstanding audio performance too, and offers a choice of two systems developed specifically for the new F-TYPE with experts from world-renowned British firm Meridian. The standard-fit system has 10 speakers, while the optional Surround Sound system features 12 speakers and delivers exceptionally clear, crisp sound optimized for both driver and passenger. February 2017

AUTO | LAUNCH

onda brings the best of style and safety in its 2017 Accord. A popular car, it brings some of the best features that are a first in its class. Exterior Styling: The 2017 Accord face is more sharply creased and an intricately structured bumper fascia integrates an all new chrome grill design that features a prominent bright bar as a solid setting for the H-badge. LED Front Fog Lights in 2.4EX and upwards, project a wide low beam for enhanced forward visibility in dust storms or during heavy fog. 17-inch alloy wheels are equipped in LX grades and above and 18 inch alloy wheels in 3.5EX Sport grade. Other features standard in all grades include side turn signal on door mirror, body colored power door mirror, Sunroof standard in all grades except DX grade, and twin finisher tail pipe in 2.4EX upwards. Interior Styling: Accord’s stylish appointed cabin and richly upholstered seats offer effortless comfort for five adults and an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat, in 2.4 EX grade and upwards, comes with personalized settings for two drivers. The cockpit is equipped with advanced instrumentation and controls positioned for driver’s convenience. The steering wheel is equipped with integrated switches for hands free calling, audio system track and volume control. Paddle shifters feature in 3.5EX Sport Grade which allow driver to instantly downshift or upshift according to the terrain. Power Train: New Accord offers a choice of 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC 2.4liter engine or a 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC 3.5-liter V6 engine. The 2.4-liter engine in DX and LX grades generates 185-horsepower @ 6400rpm, EX and EXL grades generate a 189-horsepower @ 6400rpm and the V6 model 3.5-liter engine delivers a

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Honda Accord

revamped The new Accord gets a major facelift with sportier, more sophisticated styling. 278-horsepower @ 6200 rpm. The fuel consumption of the New Accord is 16.5 (Km/l) for the 2.4L grades which is the best in its class. Body and Safety: The 3.5 V6 grades are equipped

with ‘Honda Sensing’. This new suite of driver-assistive technologies helps driver sense things which might be missed while driving. The Honda Sensing features consist of Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Collision Mitigation Braking System and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System. The other Honda active-safety features such as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control Systems (TCS), Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS), Electronic Brake Distributor (EBD) and Hill Start Assist (HSA). The new Accord has received the 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance for Highway Safety (IIHS) in USA. It has also received highest available crash safety ratings and a 5–Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA.

NEWS | FASHION

Karl Lagerfeld introduces an iconic new handbag for 2017 Karl Lager feld has announced the launch of the K/Metal Signature bag collection for Spring/Summer 2017. This luxe range translates Karl Lagerfeld’s signature into a hardware plaque, adding a striking design element to the variety of bags and small accessories available in the all-leather collection. The medium-sized K/Metal Signature Shoulderbag is set to be an instant classic alongside the existing and iconic Karl Lagerfeld K/Kuilted bag. Formed of two compartments, it’s the ultimate day-to-night style. The Karl plaque is artfully absorbed onto the front flap of the bag, creating an elegant contrast between the metal and leather textures. This covetable style inspired a vivacious sub-collection of Shoulderbags in pop colours that are perfect for summer. The range, made of structured saffiano leather, sees the tonal

Karl signature stitched along the front exterior. The K/Metal Signature line fuses all the hallmarks of the brand: iconic design with a dash of irreverence. The collection launched worldwide at Karl Lagerfeld stores, and selected retailers in February, 2017.

Kalyan Jewellers launches Special Valentine’s Day Jewelry Collection

Kalyan Jewellers has introduced a special jewelr y collection to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Reflecting the romantic theme of the occasion, the collection features a stunning range of heart-shaped pendants, earrings BQ Plus

and chains, and is a fusion of contemporary and traditional jewelry designs from Kalyan’s popular collections including Anokhi- uncut diamonds, GloDancing diamonds and Rang- precious stones collection.

Sofia Al Asfoor launches Exotic Shield

Sofia Al Asfoor, the luxury leather and accessories brand, has introduce its Exotic Shield; the luxurious customizable piece. The Exotic piece is one of the most desired Shields; customizable and designed to one’s chosen color and style. Available in two styles, Classic and Borla, The Shield can be created using rich Ostrich or Crocodile leather with the preference of matte or glossy finishing. The leathers come in the customer’s chosen colors. Sof t-tothe-touch suede leather that lines the inside of the piece is also color-customizable, with a wide selection of delicate colors. What makes the piece truly special and a symbol of individuality is the embellishment of the hand-picked 18K Italian gold or white gold emblem and the interior engraving. Sofia, herself, is part of the entire process, making certain that the Shield is created to perfection and in style. Sofia’s hands-on approach adds incredible value to the Exotic Shield as her expert eye guides the hand of the artisan throughout the creation. The Shield is available at 51 East stores in Qatar.

NEWS | TECH

Axilspot unveils latest Dorado In-wall Access Points in the Middle East Axilspot, a global vendor in enterprise wireless networking, unveiled its latest Dorado In-wall access points in the Middle East and Africa to help businesses streamline their operational processes and enjoy consistent and uninterrupted high-speed internet connectivity. The new 5-in-1 ASW3 300M Multi-Serv i c e I n - w a l l A c c e s s P o i n t o f fe r s multi-interfaces support cable access, PoE output, VoIP, telephone and USB charge and is primaril y designed for the hospitality sector in the MEA region. Axilspot provides smarter and safer wire-like WLAN solutions for all sizes of enterprises, including wireless bridges, outdoor and indoor coverage solutions. The Rscan smart array antenna, FlowPath, VisualSec, TurboRf technologies help to solve all security and user experience problems wheras the

easy and flexible WLAN management can save enterprises significant time and IT maintenance costs. Axilspot flagged off its operations in the region’s enterprise wireless segment by launching Rscan range of products in December 2016.

Panasonic launches latest line of vacuum cleaners Panasonic Marketing Middle East and Africa (PMMAF) has launched the latest line of vacuum cleaners, MC-CL 565, MC-CL 563, and MC-CL 561, which are successors to the company’s popular bagless canister model MC-CL 48 series. All three models feature a combination of innovative long-lasting suc t ion p ower tech nology and full - cap ture nozzle that make cleaning easy, efficient and effective. Panasonic’s new models come with high-performance, powerful motors ranging from, 1,600W to 2,000W, and long-lasting suction

power, thanks to the mega cyclone system. The centrifugal force of the cyclone system keeps dust and dirt at the bottom of the canister and away from the filter. The top and midrange models MC- CL565 and MC-CL563 feature a full - capture nozzle with a front cover that opens to help in cleaning edges eff iciently. The nozzle is attached to a n e rg o n o m i c a l l y curved wand providing smoother maneuverability that makes cleaning different surfaces including floor, carpets, and furniture, really easy.

Sennheiser’s Gaming launches The GSP 300

Sennheiser has announced the launch of new Gaming Headset GSP 300 being the ultimate device for discerning Gamers who are looking for a premium sound experience. The first product in Sennheiser’s allnew gaming range, the GSP 300 headset for PC, Mac, PS4 and Xbox One uses the audio specialist’s famed acoustic technology to enhance every gaming session with even greater clarity and realism. Even as an entr y-level model, the GSP 300 is a serious upgrade to the gaming experience: Its memory foam ear pads provide best-in-class acoustic seal that allows for total focus on the game without interruption from outside noise. The GSP 300 is equipped with a broadcast quality noise-cancelling microphone that minimizes background noise, with a short boom arm that cuts out breathing sounds for clearer ingame communications. The new Gaming Headset GSP 300 is now available at Fifty One East’s store at Al Maha Center on Salwa Road, FNAC, iSpace and major electronics retailers in Qatar. February 2017

NEWS | EDUCATION

HBKU Hosts Wide-Ranging Public Lectures Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) recently opened its doors and invited the local community to several public lectures and events at Education City. The lecture series began with Dr. Abdelazeem Abozaid, an expert on the principles of Islamic law governing monetary transactions, from HBKU’s College of Islamic Studies (CIS), who delivered a lecture titled “Shariah Parameters for Upholding Social Responsibility in Islamic Finance”. The lecture explored the various challenges faced by Islamic financial institutions in bringing about social change and to be socially responsible members of the community. CIS also hosted another lecture titled “The Need of the Faqih for Social Science”. Presented by HBKU associate professor, Dr. Abdelhak Hamiche, an internationally published scholar with over 20 years of academic experience, the lecture sought to emphasize the need for scholars and researchers to consider the advantages offered by exploring the social sciences to inform their work in Islamic jurisprudence. HBKU’s College of Law and Public Policy also organized a seminar on the subject of “Women in Leadership in Qatar”. The panelists for the event were HBKU’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences Founding Dean Dr. Amal Mohammed Al

Malki, Dr. Amira Sonbol from Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar, Maryam Al Bader, Legal Counsel in Qatar Foundation’s Legal Department, and Dr. Ghida Al Juburi, General Counsel in the Office of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. To learn more about HBKU, or to attend any of the upcoming lectures, visit hbku.edu.qa.

Qatar Invents Holds Workshops to Encourage Innovation More than 35 Qatari school students unleashed their inner inventors and entrepreneurs recently as part of two weeklong workshops organized by Texas A&M University at Qatar and sponsored by Maersk Oil Qatar. Qatar Invents, an intensive engineering invention and design experience, engaged students in hands-on projects that pushed their innovation, creativity and communication skills. The program was designed to motivate students in science and engineering while teaching skills essential to becoming leaders in engineering and innovation. In App Camp, students worked in teams to design and develop an iOS app. They learned how to code, prototype, test and refine their ideas along the way. Apps developed by the students included a fitness app; a digital personal trainer linked into Qatar’s fitness sector, including gyms and nutrition specialists; a fashion design app featuring a digital tailor; a trivia game about Qatar and its traditions; and a cultural app with information for tourists about Qatar’s culture and attractions. The workshops are part of the Dhia: Engineering Leaders initiative, a partnership between Texas A&M at Qatar and Maersk Oil Qatar. Dhia delivers programs to motivate young Qataris to choose careers in fields related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and supports both teachers and students through a broad portfolio of programs and workshops. BQ Plus

COMMUNITY | EVENTS

THE FUNNY GREEK IS COMING TO TOWN Venue: Grand Hyatt Doha Dates: 13,14 March Tickets: QR 140 - book now at thelaughterfactory.com After a wait of 12 years, comedian Angelo Tsarouchas, joins The Laughter Factory. Recognise this guy? The Greek-Canadian stand-up and actor’s numerous screen credits include hit movies The Untouchables, The Score, The Recruit and Cinderella Man, as well as beloved TV show, Mad Men.

However onstage is where Tsarouchas’ greatest talents lie. Known for his original style and spotlightcommanding personality, this talented stand-up has been invited to tour alongside Russell Peters and Vince Vaughn, and tape two one-hour solo comedy specials. Widely nicknamed “The Funny Greek”, Angelo last appeared on The Laughter Factory in 2004. Also joining him are two deceptively different UK comics – veteran middle-aged grump Mark Maier, and twenty-something Welsh rising star Matt Rees.

BRYAN ADAMS LIVE IN QATAR Venue: Grand Hyatt Doha Dates: 15 March Tickets: Starting from QR 300 Multi-platinum, recording artist Bryan Adams is set to rock Qatar with ‘The Get Up Tour’. The Bryan Adams Get Up tour in Qatar is brought to you By Alive Entertainment and the Grand Hyatt Doha. Bryan Adams released his thirteenth studio album, Get Up, in October 2015. Produced by famed ELO frontman Jeff Lynne and co-written with his long-time collaborator Jim Vallance, the album features nine new songs and four acoustic versions.

February 2017

QATAR DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 2017 Venue: Grand Hyatt Doha Date: 10 March Qatar Dragon Boat, an all-volunteer community group comprising of members passionate about spreading the sport of dragon boat racing in Qatar is hosting Qatar’s first dragon boat competition of the season. Come

cheer on your favorite team as Qatar’s best dragon boat clubs compete in the 200m sprint category. The competition will have two categories: Premier and Corporate/Recreational Premier: Open and Mixed Standard Boat Corporate/Recreational: Open Standard Boat

DOHA JEWELLERY AND WATCHES EXHIBITION 2017

MUHAMMAD ALI: TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND

Venue: Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre Date: 20 - 25 February

Venue: Eastern Gallery, 4th Floor, Museum of Islamic Art Date: Till 25 February

Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition is expected to feature well over 500 brands represented by 40 exhibitors from 10 countries. DJWE is the longestrunning and one of the most anticipated exhibition in Qatar’s annual calendar of events and reinforces the country’s position as a premium business events destination. Plans for the 2017 edition of Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition will give outstanding local talent the chance to shine alongside global luxury brands.

An exhibition dedicated posthumously to world boxing legend Muhammad Ali (1942-2016). The temporary exhibition is curated by Qatar Museums’ 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports Museum and will present a unique collection of artefacts from the boxing legend’s career, including photography from Ali’s outdoor exhibition bout at the Doha Stadium in 1971 and memorabilia spanning his journey to the 1960 Rome Olympics; Ali’s world title winning bout against Sonny Liston in 1964 and his final world title winning fight against Leon Spinks in New Orleans in 1978.