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Discover our summer fitness offers.

Join our resort membership program and enjoy unlimited access to the resort facilities, including the gym, tennis and squash courts, steam, sauna and pools. Discover the exceptional summer offers available for singles, couples and family, valid until 31 August 2018. For reservations and inquiries, please contact +974 4484 8000 or email rc.dohrz.spa@ritzcarlton.com. www.ritzcarltondoha.qa | www.facebook.com/ritzcarltondoha

ÂŠ2018 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

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DOHA

25 33 38 ARTS & CULTURE

CHEFâ€™S Q&A

BACK TO SCHOOL

CONTENTS

43 71 79 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

FOODIE CORNER

WELLNESS DAY

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• THE EDITOR

Breaking Boundaries

“

Photographing a culture in the here and now often means photographing the intersection of the present with the past.” - Diane Arbus

ith all that’s going on in the world, isn’t it lovely to have a place amidst all the noise to call home? Right in the centre of the globe, the Gulf has become a sanctuary for many expats and travellers. So it gives me immense pleasure to showcase Qatar in this month’s issue through the striking images of Doha-based, Russian photographer, Maria Ovsyannikova. Turn to p25 and admire the work of someone who started out in photography as just a hobby, then dropped her day job to become a full-time pro behind the camera (and we’re glad for it too!). Maria captures images of iconic buildings, landscapes and sites as well as the people of Qatar, to display the country’s deep culture and heritage. A series of her photographs will be part of an upcoming exhibition in Saint Petersburg later this year, marking a fantastic end to the 2018 QatarRussia Year of Culture. Yes, it’s Maria’s amazing work that also made the cover story this month - how beautiful is this image? For many, the summer is a time to escape to more satisfying climates, so this month’s Globetrotter comes straight from Madrid (p48) whilst those who want to keep things local should consider the simple modernity of the DoubleTree by Hilton Doha, Old Town for a staycation that is total goals (p43). Keeping things as exclusive and fun for our readers (as always!) the FACT team caught up with celebrity chef and king of modern Japanese cooking, Masaharu Morimoto on his recent trip to Doha. Whilst the Iron Chef cooked up a storm in the kitchen at his award-winning Morimoto restaurant in the Mondrian Doha, we chatted to him about all things food, culture and transcending Japanese cuisine across borders (p33). As quickly as the summer holidays come, they will also finish and the back to school routine will set in once more. Taking the boredom out of healthy lunchbox recipes for the kids is Doha-based nutritionist Anahi Brown who shares some of her top ingredient hacks and prep tips with FACT’s Pooja Adam (p38). Who says that August has to be the month of the summer slump? Not here. As long as you’ve got your copy of FACT, there’s something new to do every day! ☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com Insta: @shabs_a 4

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FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • AUGUST 2018 VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CHAIRMAN KHALIFA BIN MUBARAK AL KHALIFA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES GENERAL MANAGER HUSSEIN A. ZREIK EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SUDHI KOLLAROTH CONTRIBUTORS CRAIG FERRIMAN POOJA ADAM COVER IMAGE MARIA OVSYANNIKOVA PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD SALES DIRECTOR MARISELA PAESANO (marisela@fact-magazine.com) OFFICE ADMIN PRADEEP KUMAR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES marisela@fact-magazine.com PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS , OMAN

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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• CONNECT

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Combining all four editions of FACT in Qatar and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the Gulf, plus loads more from the FACT team.

FACEBOOK FACT Qatar 20,644 likes Keep up with all things Qatar as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers!

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Qatar | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in Doha | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Qatar in local supermarkets now!

“

There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment.” — Robert Frank

ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar 68,351 reads of the July issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Qatar.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • ARTS & CULTURE P25 •

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Hunters Patio Lunch Doha's favorite steak and grill restaurant is now open for Lunch! Stop by for business or leisure and savour delicious burgers and refreshing salads. Daily from 12PM - 4PM Happy Hour from 12PM - midnight FOR MORE INFORMATION: +974 3359 8514 dining.doha@westin.com huntersdoha.com fact magazine

• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Not Your Average Catch FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA IS CELEBRATING THE SUMMER SEASON WITH THE DEBUT OF CATCH SEAFOOD FEAST AT ELEMENTS RESTAURANT, A FRIDAY CONCEPT FEATURING FRESH SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD AND LIVE COOKING STATIONS.

SEAFOOD LOVERS, UNITE! Catch Seafood Feast features a generous selection of seafood offerings – and the very best quality, including live cooking stations and an authentic fish market. The live cooking stations feature regional flavours, incorporating local and Indian spices, all prepared utilising authentic culinary techniques. The fish market features whole fish – such as snapper, king fish, grouper, cuttle fish, and prawns, and prepared-to-order either in the Tandoori oven or over the charcoal grill. Station highlights include chilled seafood; crab, shrimp, lobster, and mussels, along with a designated wok seafood station featuring a-laminute stir fried clams, mussels, blue crab and razor clams accompanied by Asian tastes. The menu continues with a Chinese steamer basket with ginger and lemon grass steamed prawns, mussels and whole gulf Red Snapper. Manuel Santos, Director of Food and Beverage at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, said: “Inspired by my home country of Portugal where we grill, poach and steam fresh fish and seafood, Catch 8

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Seafood Feast models this approach and incorporates our signature style infusing robust local, Asian, and Indian flavours the result will ignite your palate. “Following last summer’s successful concept – featuring noodles and ribs, Elements has once again reinvented the Friday Summer Feast menu with Doha’s finest selection of the freshest, premium seafood,” he added. The Catch Seafood Feast starts at QR250 per person, and QR125 per child for ages six to 12, which also includes complimentary access to the Kids For All Seasons programme. Kids are invited to experience the fun, interactive children’s club after their meal, while parents continue to enjoy Friday Feast in style and at their own pace. Served every Friday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm. ✤

GO: CALL 4494 8600 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

WELCOME TO COSMOS Qatar Museums (QM) and Hamad International Airport (HIA) revealed a new public art piece at the awardwinning airport created by internationally-acclaimed contemporary French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel – best known for modernising the gardens of the Château de Versailles with his striking glass fountain sculptures. COSMOS, AS THE new installation is known, is the latest addition to Qatar’s extensive public art programme, which aims to connect audiences living in and visiting Qatar with inspiring works of art. Earlier this summer, Othoniel participated in a panel discussion at The New York Times Art Leaders Network 2018 with Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of QM, and other distinguished figures from the world of architecture. At the panel, Othoniel described Cosmos as a monumental sculpture that reflects Qatar’s heritage and culture. Othoniel drew his inspiration for Cosmos from an artefact found in the collection of the IM Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art in Doha – the oldest Islamic astrolabe in the world. COSMOS pays hommage to this extraordinary object, using gold to gild the steel structure of the piece to evoke the warm light of the sun. Cosmos represents a colossal celestial globe echoing the trajectories of travellers from around the world, with more than 30 million passengers passing through HIA last year. The striking piece resembles bright calligraphy drawn in space when observed side-on or from below, and appears in the shape of a blooming rose when observed from the front. Khalid Al Ibrahim, Chief Strategic Planning Officer at Qatar Museums, said: “A major focus for us has been to create a diverse and striking public art offering at HIA and around the country, with the aim of taking art outside the walls of a museum to inspire local talent and engage travellers and tourists. “Jean-Michel is an inspiring talent who has developed a strong artistic connection with the community in Qatar. Cosmos will be a huge draw and a welcome addition to the wonderful 10

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range of work already on display at the airport,” he added. Under the patronage of its Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, QM has worked with local, regional and international artists for many years to commission and acquire artworks for key locations in and around HIA as well as other parts of the country as part of its mission to create easily accessible cultural experiences for all those who live in and visit Qatar. Cosmos joins other work such as the hugely popular Lamp Bear by Urs Fischer, the recently unveiled Small Lie by KAWS, a series of Oryx sculptures by Dutch artist Tom Claassen, and installations entitled ‘Playground’ by American artist Tom Otterness among others. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.DOHAHAMADAIRPORT.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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Souq Waqif, P.O. Box 3496 â€˘ Doha, Qatar T: +974 4433 6878 â€˘ spa.vswq@tivolihotels.com tivolihotels.com fact magazine

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DINING DELIGHTS: AUGUST

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Friday Brunch We’ve got your brunch plans sorted! Make your way to InterContinental Doha and experience a delectable Friday brunch at the newly refurbished Coral Restaurant. Dig into a lavish selection of salad, sushi, delis and cold appetisers as well as a wide selection of buffet mains from their live cooking stations and sway to the tunes of their resident DJ. Pair it with an unlimited selection of drinks starting from QR295 with soft beverages, QR325 with house beverages and QR395 including regular spirits and premium house beverages.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Dim Sum Lunch Grab your pals and head down to Shanghai Club for an absolutely delicious Friday lunch! Join the chic Asian dining destination and treat your taste buds to authentic Cantonese, Sichuan and Shanghinese cuisines. Take your pick from their unlimited signature and traditional dim sum, soothing soup and oodles of noodles as you enjoy the breathtaking city views.

CALL 4484 4919 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

CALL 4429 5000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA DOHA

GRAND HYATT DOHA

Caramel Regular High Tea Taking high tea to the next level, Caramel Lobby Lounge’s elegant and sophisticated afternoon tea experience is something you just can’t miss! Choose from a selection of teas and be delighted by the taste of freshly prepared scones, sandwiches, pastries, oriental sweets and mocktails. Treat yourself to the most indulgent high tea experience for your next rendezvous, birthday celebration or a leisurely afternoon by yourself every day from 11am to 11pm.

SoCal Comfort Breakfast Start your mornings off right with Santa Monica Breakfast Club’s SoCal Comfort Breakfast! Kick start your day with an extensive variety of breakfast delicacies with their daily breakfast buffet. Whether it is before work or before a day packed full of activities, the delightful buffet is sure to keep you satisfied. The SoCal Comfort Breakfast buffet is served from 6am to 11am (Saturday to Thursday) and 6am to 10.30 m (Friday) for QR80 per person.

CALL 4445 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

CALL 4448 1240 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA 50/50 Brunch Vine is back with your favourite brunch now at 50% off! Come together with your friends and family and indulge in a wide array of culinary delights including the most refined salads, antipasti, sushi, live stations, main dishes, desserts and free flowing selection of beverages along with live DJ entertainment. Brunch is served every Friday from 12.30 pm to 4pm. QR200 per person inclusive of soft beverages and QR300 per person inclusive of enhanced beverages. CALL 3387 0925 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 12

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CMY

Where the little things mean everything.â„˘ Al Meena Street, Doha, Qatar Visit dohaoldtown.doubletree.com fact magazine

For more information please call +974 4034 3333 or email DOHOT_fb@hilton.com

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DINING DELIGHTS: AUGUST

RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA

EZDAN HOTEL

Friday Carvery Brunch Hyde Park Coffee Shop brings to you the perfect Friday brunch for all food lovers! Relax and unwind with your friends and family as you enjoy an exceptional combination of traditional carvery, pies, fresh salad, bakes, tempura, international delights and an array of tempting desserts. Friday Carvery Brunch is served for QR175 per person with soft beverages and QR245 per person with selected beverages. 50% off for kids aged six to 12 and kids below six dine for free.

Filipino Street Food Night Calling all street food lovers! Head down to Al Thouraya Restaurant and take your taste buds for a ride with their Filipino Street Food Night. Inspired by Manila’s night markets, guests get to enjoy a truly authentic Filipino street food experience. Enjoy mouthwatering Filipino cuisine every Tuesday from 7pm to 10.30pm. QR79 per person and QR99 per person including swimming pool access.

CALL 4428 1555 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

MARRIOT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Quiz Night Get ready for some fun! Make your way to Champions at the Marriot Marquis City Center Doha for a game night like no other. Gather your team of friends for an epic Quiz Night at your favourite sports hub in town. Review your notes to smart them all and stand a chance to win the grand prize of QR3,000 and more! Quiz Night will be held on August 13 and September 10 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. CALL 4419 5000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

CALL 4496 9600 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL Caballeros Steak Night Craving some steak? Toro Toro’s Caballeros Steak Night has got you covered! Indulge in a full vibrant Latin experience as you dig into unlimited picanha, choice of two cold and two hot starters with sharing dessert and a bottle of Argentinean wine. Savour the most authentic recipes and the best meat in Doha every Wednesday from 7pm to 11.30pm for QR375 per person. CALL 4035 5101 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

KEMPINSKI SUITES AND RESIDENCES Express Lunch Make your way to Zengo and indulge in a delicious lunch when in a rush! The express lunch menu offers a complete spin on authentic Pan-Asian cuisine. Take your pick from an array of delicacies including miso soup, sushi, curry dishes, grilled entrees, wok dishes and so much more. For dessert, enjoy a number of exotic fruits as well as luscious desserts! The Zengo Express Lunch is served Sundays to Thursdays from 12pm to 4pm for QR95 per person including water and soft drinks. CALL 4405 3560 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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EID PROMOTIONS Some of the best places in town to celebrate Eid this month… SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT AND CONVENTION HOTEL Bahary Eid Brunch Make this Eid al-Adha a memorable one with a sumptuous buffet spread at Al Hubara! Gather your friends and family and tuck into a wide variety of Middle Eastern favourites, live cooking counters as well as an array of Al Hubara seafood specialties. Live kanoun player and kids’ activities will also be available for entertainment. Eid Brunch is served for QR315 per person including soft beverages and QR415 per person including special beverage package. 50% discount for children under 12 and kids aged 6 and under dine for free. Eid Brunch This Eid al-Adha, make your way to La Veranda and treat yourself and your loved ones to some exceptional Italian cuisine! Celebrate this auspicious occasion with an authentic Italian buffet spread featuring a delightful variety of antipasti, an extensive salad bar, an array of fresh seafood, live pasta station and yummy wood-fired oven pizzas. Eid Brunch is served for QR270 per person including soft beverages and QR3170 including selected beverage package. 50% discount for children under 12 and kids aged 6 and under dine for free. CALL 4485 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Treat your senses to a lavish buffet and live cooking stations featuring a wide variety of international cuisine showcasing the Farm to Table concept. Enjoy a special selection of Middle Eastern delights including a scrumptious Qatari corner and delicious Turkish sweets. Take in the stunning musical performances while your little ones join the festive fun with an array of activities including face painting, balloon twisting, cinema watching and so much more! The Eid alAdha Brunch will be served for QR325 per person inclusive of soft beverages on the first and last day of Eid from 1pm to 4pm. 50% off for children aged five to 12 and kids under five dine for free. ✤

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA Eid al-Adha Brunch Make it an Eid to remember with The Ritz-Carlton, Doha! 16

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CALL 4484 8000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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CITY CENTRE ROTANA DOHA Eid al-Adha Brunch Your Eid just got a whole lot tastier with Olive Oil! Let your taste buds revel in the delectable Eid al-Adha brunch featuring an indulgent selection of local delicacies, international dishes and luscious desserts. Eid al-Adha Brunch will be served on the first and second day of Eid from 12:30 pm to 4 pm. QR279 per person (Alcohol package will be available for QR150 per person including unlimited wine, beer, house spirits and QR120 including unlimited wine and beer only). Eid al-Adha Buffet Dinner Gather your loved ones and celebrate this joyous occasion with a mouthwatering buffet dinner spread at Olive Oil. Dig into a tempting food selection featuring an array of authentic Arabic cuisine as well as plenty of delightful desserts to choose from. Eid Buffet Dinner will be served on the first and second day of Eid from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. QR199 per person (Alcohol package will be available for QR150 per person including unlimited wine, beer, house spirits and QR120 including unlimited wine and beer only).

CALL 4445 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Eid Brunch This Eid, embark on a culinary expedition like no other with Seasonal Taste’s Family Eid Brunch! Gather you friends and family and celebrate this auspicious time in style at The Westin Doha Hotel and Spa. Savour a wide array of international favourites and delectable delicacies on the first day of Eid al-Adha from 12 pm to 3 pm. Eid Brunch will be served for QR240 per person including soft beverages.

Eid al-Adha Lunch and Dinner Head down to The Square and kick off your Eid al-Adha celebration in style! Join them for lunch or dinner and indulge in a mouthwatering array of traditional and international favourites. Celebrate with your loved ones while you treat your taste buds to a delicious spread on the first three days of Eid. Lunch will be served from 12 pm to 3 pm starting from QR165 per person including food only and dinner will be served from 6 pm to 11 pm starting from QR185 per person including food only. ✤

CALL 335 98514 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

CALL 4015 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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A 10 day dining experience across our 10 acclaimed restaurants!

10 X 10

= 100

10 - 20 August, 2018 marriottmarquisdohadining.com

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STOPOVER W STYLE W Doha Hotel & Residences, the stunning luxury lifestyle hotel, has launched an exciting Stopover Package, inviting guests to explore the vibrant destination of Doha as part of their travel. With the summer holidays upon us, the hotel is offering savvy travellers a majestic sojourn in the heart of the city. THE STOPOVER PACKAGE OFFERS guests a spectacular stay at W Doha on their way to or back from their vacations. They can choose from an array of signature rooms and suites, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and in-room entertainment, alongside gorgeous interiors. Guests are also eligible for an instant upgrade to the next available room or suite category during their stay as well as premium shuttle services to and from the airport. W Doha is home to a selection of culinary gems in the city. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a complimentary breakfast at Market by Jean-Georges, in addition to exploring the full array of the hotel’s award-winning restaurants featuring a wide selection of cuisine – from authentic South Asian street food at Spice Market to handpicked Italian fare at La Spiga by Paper Moon. As part of the package, guests receive also exclusive access to the Executive VVIP Lounge, where they can savour a selection of nibbles during the day. The luxury hotel also features Doha’s very first Bliss Spa, where guests can avail themselves of 20% off across the signature massage and treatments menu of excellent services at this modern, urban retreat. In addition, fitness enthusiasts can break a sweat with a complimentary 30-minute EMS session with certified personal trainers. Meanwhile, art aficionados can ascend to the hotel’s 29th floor, featuring the in-house Art 29 gallery, an exciting space that showcases work by local and regional artists. Enjoying close proximity to some of Doha’s iconic attractions, the hotel also 20

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offers guests ample opportunities to step out and experience the history, culture and heritage of the city at ease. For travellers heading to Italy, Turkey or Maldives, W Doha has partnered with The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in Venice, W Maldives and W Istanbul. Guests availing themselves of the Stopover Package in Doha can receive a host of special benefits when checking in to any of these three breath-taking properties. The Stopover package at W Doha is available until the end of the year. Bookings are open now until December 30. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.WHOTELDOHA.COM/STOPOVER FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION ON THE HOTEL’S PROMOTIONS AND OFFERS.

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SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT CITY Following on its strong start during Eid Al-Fitr holidays, Summer Entertainment City (SEC) invites visitors of all ages and interests to continue to experience its exciting offerings spread out over the expansive ground floor of the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC) until the end of August. IN ADDITION TO its more than 75 gaming experiences and 40 food outlets under one roof, SEC’s new offering this year includes a Summer Shopping Souq with 140 stalls from Qatar and other countries such as Kuwait, Oman, Iran, Turkey and Lebanon. They are offering a wide range of products from household items, toys, gadgets and electronics, to perfumes, cosmetics, clothes and accessories. The shops’ variety of goods are meant to appeal to all tastes and the price ranges mean shoppers of all budgets will find something to buy. Mr Ghanim Al Mohannadi, Deputy Chairman of QSports, said: “Every summer we gather our efforts to provide the highest standards of entertainment for Qatar’s residents and visitors! We work relentlessly to deliver international standards to place Qatar on the international map of leisure and tourism. “To date, the Summer Entertainment City has welcomed more than 50,000 visitors, from different nationalities through its doors, all gathered to have fun and create unforgettable memories,” he added. “QSports is proud to be a part of the Qatar Summer Festival as a private-sector organiser of an event of this magnitude. We are working hand-in-hand with key stakeholders and partners such as Qatar Tourism Authority, Doha Exhibition & Convention Center, QTickets, and others, to bring an exciting array of entertainment to hundreds of thousands of expected visitors.” This year’s version has been designed to suit all ages – from toddlers to teenagers and adults – and budgets with a wide variety of games and activities at affordable prices, and an entry fee of just QR15. All family members are invited to come to SEC to take advantage of the several fun-filled activities within the air-conditioned comfort of the magnificent DECC. The Summer Entertainment City’s key features include the world’s largest bouncy castle, a synthetic ice skating rink, an extensive virtual reality (VR) setup with more than 15 VR games as well as live entertainment shows. A driving school for children is also available with a complete circuit, cars and driving teachers. For those who feel they want to slow down to break away from all the excitement, an 18-hole mini-golf course is also in place. Mashal Shahbik, Director of Festivals and Tourism Events at QTA, said: “We are delighted to see hundreds of families flock 22

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LISTEN UP •

to DECC each day to immerse themselves in the excitement that SEC offers this summer. We are particularly happy to see our private sector partners such as QSPORTS evolve and grow their offering every year to capitalise on new trends and offer something for all members of the family.” The Qatar Summer Festival family favourite is spread over 29,000 m2 at DECC. It is open daily from 2pm to 11pm. An individual entry ticket costs QR15 and a day pass is for QR150. Individual game prices range from QR10 to QR35. ✤

Website: www.summerentcity.qa Facebook: /SummerEntCity, Twitter: @SummerEntCity, Instagram: @summerentcity.qa Tickets: www.q-tickets.com or from the venue itself.

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â€˘ SOCIETY

#A C E #O P E N S #F I R S T #S TO R E #I N #Q ATA R Home improvement and lifestyle store, ACE has opened its first store in Qatar. Located in Doha Festival City, the largest entertainment, retail and hospitality destination in Qatar, offering customers a wide range of products in four key categories including Do-it-Yourself (DIY) and Hardware, Outdoor Living, Home Improvement, and Home Living. The store boasts a wide range of products from world-renowned brands including Weber, Leisuregrow, Karcher, Gardena, Karcher, Black & Decker, Makita, Clark + Kensington, SUKI, Craftsman Valspar, Bosch, Sentry, Dewalt, in addition to exclusive ranges from ACE, Worx power tools, Addis home products and Broil King all under one roof. The store also features an in-store garden centre with plants and accessories as well as a range of services including paint mixing, key cutting, free timber cutting on wood bought-in store, repotting, home delivery and installation, and click and collect.

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QATAR-RUSSIA YEAR OF CULTURE

The spotlight has been on 2018 FIFA World Cup host country, Russia, for the past few weeks. Soon, it will be Qatar’s turn to welcome the best football stars and teams to our Arabian shores! With it also being the 2018 Qatar-Russia Year of Culture, FACT thought it only fitting to catch up with Maria Ovsyannikova, a Qatar-based Russian photographer, who will display her captivating photography of the country in a Saint Petersburg exhibition later this year. Here’s what you need to know… fact magazine

• ARTS & CULTURE

riginally from Moscow, Maria has now been living in Qatar for five years. She’s a self-taught photographer with a fascination for all things culture related. “When I think about heritage sites in Qatar, it inspires me to imagine how they looked in the past when they were still populated,” Maria says. “I picture different scenes, like, for example, how men were leaving for long fishing trips or pearl diving trips, and how they are coming back. What would ladies do, what would kids or the elderly do - scenes from common life,” she adds. “And all that is what I want to show in my images, with an artistic touch.” Maria recalls how she always liked to take photos but kept it at hobby level. After she moved to Qatar, she suddenly discovered her true passion for creating images of local culture, landscapes and heritage. “I found beauty and inspiration here like nowhere else, so three years ago I left my office job and became a full time photographer,” she says. When thinking about who or what to photograph here in Qatar, Maria’s thought process is different from image to image. “Sometimes, I pass by a place, I see how nice it looks in this particular moment, so I might just leave everything and literally run there to take the desired shot,” she explains. “Or sometimes I can plan my shoots for weeks - selecting locations, time, models, props and so on. Or again, I might wake up in the morning with an idea already – like today I HAVE to go and take shots in let’s say – Souq Wakif! It really does vary.” You’ll notice that much of Maria’s work really explores the vast landscapes, the skyline, cultural sites and people of Qatar. It’s no surprise then that her favourite places to shoot are both the desert and by the sea – which make for stunning landscapes in her photos of Qatar. She also states that she adores the heritage sites located mostly along the North coast of Qatar. “I spent a lot of time exploring that area and still go there sometimes, away from civilisation, just to have peace of mind,” Maria says. Showcasing Qatar in an equally history and heritage rich country like Russia is no small feat, and Maria is thrilled about the upcoming exhibition. “The opportunity to show a glimpse of Qatari culture, landscapes and architecture to Russian people is so exciting,” she smiles. “Most of the selected images will be showcasing those themes.” Aside from the beautiful shots that Maria takes of her now home, Qatar, she also likes to use photography to raise awareness of more topical issues too. Recently, she teamed up with Al Sadd SC football player Xavi Hernandez to create an image with Nawaal Akram, a Qatari comedian, model, athlete and disability rights campaigner, to bring for attention and open discussion on disability in Qatar. ✤

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ARTS & CULTURE â€¢

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â€¢ ARTS & CULTURE

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ARTS & CULTURE â€¢

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• ARTS & CULTURE Do you remember what your first professional camera was and the first picture you took with it – share that memory with us… My first DSLR was a Canon 60 D and I clearly remember that image, which was kind of a starting point of my photographic journey in Qatar. It was the Doha Skyline with two dhows on the foreground just right after sunrise. How would you describe your photography style? I would say that it’s fine art photography. I am trying to make it as artistic as I can, and to give it a message or a story. Tell us about some of the other tools and techniques you make use of in your photography… I don’t really have any specific tools or techniques, but I do not upload or publish the picture if I don’t feel it’s perfect. Is there anywhere in Qatar that you have yet to shoot – somewhere you really want to capture on camera? Qatar National Museum – it’s such a gem of architecture and design, and I would love to have some creative images of this building. What advice would you give to young budding photographers? Two things I would like to recommend is keep taking pictures every day, and look with your eyes, but see with your heart. Aside from the exhibition in St. Petersburg, what else is coming up for you for the rest of 2018? There are a few more exhibitions being discussed at the moment. One of them is confirmed – an exhibition at Sheikh Faisal Museum, opening October 26. It will be dedicated to the conclusion of 2018 Qatar-Russia Year of Culture. The Exhibition in St. Petersburg will open on November 2 for one month. I am very proud to be selected by Qatar Museums to be part of this exhibition. With all these events, I hope to help make everyone more familiar with the cultures of both countries – Qatar and Russia. ✤

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ARTS & CULTURE â€¢

GO: FOLLOW @MARIASPHOTOCLICKS ON INSTAGRAM TO KEEP UP WITH ALL THE LATEST FROM MARIA. VISIT WWW.QM.ORG.QA/EN FOR MORE INFORMATION ON UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS.

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â€˘ SOCIETY

#CHEF #MASAHARU #MORIMOTO #VISITS #DOHA

Celebrity chef and star of TV cooking show Iron Chef, Masaharu Morimoto, visited his stunning award-winning restaurant Morimoto at the 5-star Mondrian Doha, last month. FACT was invited for an evening of private dining and exclusive food tasting, with dishes prepared by the culinary extraordinaire himself. The FACT team carried out an exclusive Q&A with Chef Morimoto as he whipped up the most delicious modern Japanese dishes in the kitchen. Chef Morimotoâ€™s visit to Doha is a frequent reminder of how much diners have fallen in love with his venue and food concept here in Doha.

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Morimoto Takeover Anytime we hear that celebrity chef and all-round epicurean genius, Masaharu Morimoto, is in town, weâ€™re the first ones at the table to try his culinary concoctions. On his recent trip to the very successful and popular Morimoto Doha, the Japanese food master cooked up a very special dinner for the FACT team as we chatted about the fast success of the restaurant, the one dish everyone should order and his cheat day food...

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• CHEF’S Q&A Welcome back to Doha Chef Morimoto and congratulations on winning Best Restaurant in Doha 2018! How does it feel to have achieved so much success with Morimoto Doha in such a small amount of time? I feel very lucky to have Mondrian as a partner and especially Andre, who came to experience Morimoto in the United States, in Hawaii, he’s very humble and enjoyed it. So the team is the core of the success for this restaurant. How has Morimoto Doha evolved since you opened last year – are you here to make any changes to the menu or do some more training with the culinary team? The last time I was here, it was very fun. I saw all the chefs and I felt very honoured and proud. This is the second time here and I’m not going to change a lot because I respect what [Executive Chef] Timur Fazilov is doing here. We’ll apply very small changes like seasonal items and daily specials. Can you tell us the one dish that you would recommend for somebody coming to Morimoto Doha for the first time – something that embodies what the restaurant offers? I strongly recommend to try the Tuna Pizza. Do you know why? You know pizza, and you know tuna – right? But I’ve created this dish for even people who don’t eat raw fish. A thin slice of tuna on the top, black olives, red onions, cherry tomatoes, jalapeno and the sauce is anchovy aioli. Everything on it looks and sounds familiar and the presentation is beautiful. So I’m thinking “how can I make this appealing for people whose first time it is to try raw fish or Japanese food” and the answer is “Pizza” – so people feel safe to try something a little bit different which can hopefully lead to more experimenting like sushi and sashimi. The Tuna Pizza is the perfect dish to start with here. What do you think it is specifically about Morimoto Doha that has appealed and continues to draw diners in Qatar to visit the restaurant? The key is atmosphere and hospitality – it’s all down to team work. Some restaurants say, “this is my food, it’s the best food”. With Morimoto, it’s also about the people. Say if you make a reservation for Morimoto, you will see from the very first phone call that the staff is polite and attentive. When you come here, it will be further impressive as the staff make you feel special – they are knowledgeable and make you feel very welcomed. The food is only 30 per cent, the music, the lighting, the smiling – it’s a full experience and we’re confident with our team.

different chefs and food – for example here, London, Italy, Las Vegas, Singapore – all these cultures influence me.

The last time we met you, in December, you told us that presentation was a really big part of your brand and remains a strong value in the heart of the Morimoto experience. Can you tell us about where you picked up your presentation skills from early on in your career? I picked up some skills from my parents. They gave me inspiration with colour and ingredients, and overall presentation. Sometimes I don’t feel anything and then suddenly there comes a time when something lights or sparks in you which inspires the presentation. I travel a lot and get to see many

In this day, what is your biggest inspiration when it comes to cooking? Well, I’m getting old now so it’s a little more difficult to find inspiration so easily. Recently, the news of Anthony Bourdain’s passing was a very big shock. That day, CNN asked me to come on the live show and I had nothing to say – I was in shock. He came and tried some of my new dishes in Tokyo before anybody else – so maybe I would say that his work is some form of inspiration – because he brought food, cultures, and people’s strories from faraway countries to the whole world.

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CHEF’S Q&A •

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• CHEF’S Q&A

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CHEF’S Q&A •

What do you think is the latest trend in Japanese food this year? Sushi is not a trend anymore but people still eat it. I would say that everyone is always talking about the Japanese noodles – ramen, udon, somen, soba. You are renowned for having restaurants in some really cool cities around the world, which restaurant of yours is particularly close to your heart and why? This is a tough one – I should give a political answer (laughs). I can say Morimoto Napa Valley. Because the people who live and work there weren’t used to different foods – this was a challenge for us to introduce to them new food of the Japanese culture, and it’s paid off. You meet so many talented people in your field; can you tell us which Chef has inspired you along the way – do you have a mentor that you turn to? I’m really doing my own thing, and not following anyone, but if you really strongly asked me to say just one person I would choose Rokusaburo Michiba, the original Iron Chef in Japan. On a cheat day, what type of dish or fast food do you enjoy? Ramen! (laughs). Ramen is a fast food, right? Which city would you aspire to have a restaurant in next? Actually, I really want to go to Vietnam. It’s a very mysterious country and I would like to explore it. Otherwise, the moon (laughs). Space! What’s coming up in the world of Morimoto for the rest of the year? We’re currently negotiating for more Morimoto and Morimoto Asia (the pan-Asian dining experience) in some different places around the world, but I can’t reveal anything just yet! ✤

GO: VISIT MORIMOTO DOHA AT THE 5-STAR MONDRIAN DOHA. CALL 4045 5999 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• BACK TO SCHOOL

HEALTHY LUNCHBOX HACKS COME THE F I R S T WE E K O F S E PT E M B E R A N D T H E KI DS WI LL B E G O I N G B AC K TO S C H O O L, REL AXED, REFRE S HE D A N D R E E N E R GI S E D. SO WH Y N OT H E LP TO KE E P T H E M AT T H E I R B E S T WI T H YUMMY TR EATS T HAT A R E B OT H S AT I S F YI N G A N D G O O D FO R YO U! FAC T’S P O OJ A A DA M C AU G H T UP WITH DOHA-B A S E D N U T R I T I O N IS T A N D WE LLN E S S COAC H, A NA H I B R OWN, FO R S O M E D E LI S H HEALT HY R ECI PE I D E A S A N D FA S T T I P S TO FI LL U P YO U R KI D S’ LU N C H B OX…

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Cucumber and Carrot Sticks with Hummus Hacks for Veggies: Cut the veggies at the beginning of the week and store them in a glass airtight container for up to one week. Make sure they are DRY! Hack for Hummus: Make your own to avoid nasties. Just cook a kilo of dry chickpeas at a time (if you use broth instead of water to make them, they’ll be even more nutritious), once cooked, freeze it in smaller batches. When it’s time to make it, process the thawed chickpeas with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and salt, add a bit of sumac to finish it and enjoy. Hummus can last up to 2 weeks when stored adequately in the fridge.

Apple Wedges with Sunflower Seed Butter & Honey Hack for the Apples: My boys are apple addicted, so at the beginning of the week we core and cut six of them in wedges and store them dry in a zipploc bag in the fridge. As long as they are properly closed, they won’t go brown! Hacks for the Dipping Sauce: Depending of your kid’s school policy around nuts, you can use almond butter instead or stick to this option. Pairing fruits with a goodfat-rich nut or seed butter allows children to have a slower release of the sugars in their bloodstream, helping them remain fuller and focused for longer. fact magazine

• BACK TO SCHOOL

Paleo Baked Falafel Ingredients: Cauliflower, garlic, cumin powder, fresh parsley, coconut flour, eggs, garlic, sweet potato, coconut oil and salt Hacks for the Falafel: You can use chickpeas or fava beans if convenient, too. Make a big batch of these and use for up to two weeks. It makes a great snack for adults too! Warming these up in the oven with a light coconut oil drizzle makes them crunchy and keeps them moist and delicious.

Sausage sticks with BBQ Sauce Ingredients for the Sauce: Sugar free ketchup, date syrup, sweet paprika, lemon juice, salt. Hacks: Make sure you check at the butcher about the ingredients and spices for the sausages as they can sometimes be spicy. Cut the sausages in bite size pieces to make them more fun and easy to eat. Use skewer sticks and experiment with adding tomatoes or peppers in them too. You can keep the sauce for a long time in the fridge and it can be used for many different dishes, plus it has no chemicals or preservatives.

Paleo Roast Beef and Turkey Breast Dough Rolls Ingredients: Roast beef or turkey breast, coconut flour, psyllium husks, ghee, coconut milk and coconut oil. Hacks for the Rolls: You can use ready-made dough (or even phyllo pastry) to make this even easier, if allergies aren’t a problem. The fillings are all up to you! From cheese to sausages, the options are huge. But remember - when using processed ingredients, like deli meats or cold cuts, make sure you read the ingredients to avoid sugars, unwanted chemicals and allergens. Bake big batches of these over the weekend and be ready for a whole week of lunchboxes!

Veggie Soup with Buttered Soldiers Ingredients for the Soup: Broccoli, cauliflower, potatoes, onions, 40

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garlic, peppers, bone broth, turmeric, butter, coconut milk and salt. Hacks: Make big batches of vegetable soup without seasoning, always adding broth to increase the nutritional profile, and freeze them in smaller portions. Then just add your preferred milk (in our case coconut) and seasoning when warming it. For the soup, you can even add chunks of chicken, leftover rice, blocks of cheese… or dumplings if you’re feeling adventurous! Make the soup 100% yours by swapping veggies or using leftovers, once everything is blended, the little ones won’t be able to distinguish if they are eating broccoli or potatoes! We rely on buttered toast to make sure there’s nothing left of the soup! Cut the bread in long pieces and let your kids dunk and enjoy it. If your kids have no dairy allergies, you can substitute the toast for grilled cheese sandwiches.

French Toast Sticks with Maple Syrup Ingredients for the French Toast: Bread (we go for homemade gluten free bread), eggs, milk of your choice (we use coconut), coconut sugar, turmeric, cinnamon, coconut oil and vanilla. Hacks: This is another forgiving recipe that you can make big batches of and offer as breakfast, snacks or fancy desserts depending on how you pair it. Let the bread soak in the batter, to increase the nutritional value and make them more filling, cook them at a low temperature to make sure they are cooked through and crunchy. I add sneaky turmeric to these and call them lego toast and the boys LOVE them. Cut them in sticks or dices to make it more fun to eat and let them dip the pieces in the maple syrup.

Paleo Chicken Quesadillas with Pink Sauce Ingredients Paleo Tortillas: water, coconut flour, psyllium husks, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and coconut oil. Ingredients Pink Sauce: Sugar free ketchup (I love Annie’s!), tartare sauce, and mayonnaise.

BACK TO SCHOOL •

Hacks: This is a great option when using leftover chicken, beef or even lentils! By adding some cheese, little ones won’t even suspect that you’re feeding them yesterday’s dinner. You can use pita bread, corn tortillas or even wheat tortillas depending on your family’s diet. If in hand, these pair amazing with guacamole too. You can use vegan cheese too if there are dairy allergies in your family, we use nut cheeses for this and they are still everyone’s favourite. Warm up the tortillas enough before adding the filling and cheese to help it melt easier, keep flipping until it reaches your desired level of crunchiness.

N’Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients: Coconut flour, coconut milk, coconut sugar, baking powder, arrowroot powder, raisins, coconut flakes, cinnamon, vanilla, eggs, seeds and salt. Hacks: These are gluten, sugar and dairy free, but you can always go for a recipe that works for your family. We sometimes make the batter more liquid and make “pancake cookies” which are great for cookie sandwiches. Believe it or not, these actually taste like oatmeal cookies, but are lower in sugar and, therefore, keep blood sugar more stable in the bloodstreams. ✤

General Hacks: l Dare to experiment and make the recipes yours, make things work for you and your family and not the other way around. l Feel free to swap fruits and veggies around depending on what’s fresh or cheaper in the supermarket, but don’t be scared to repeat these weekly, kids tend to thrive with routine and it’s better to have a happy and relaxed mom with repeated menu than a very stressed one with a gourmet lunchbox. l Play with leftovers to minimise food wastage and support your budget. l Get kids involved as much as possible in the decision making and meal preparation to help them have a sense of ownership and develop independence. They (and you) will appreciate this later on in life. l Staples like pasta, rice, pancakes and crepes can be make in big batches and use in a space of a couple of weeks, just plan well ahead to make sure you use everything adequately. l The lunch boxes and separates were bought from the Dollar Store. GO: FOLLOW @WELLNESSBYANAHI ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST. fact magazine

Science the way we see it Check out our unique school & uni selection Mallfactofmagazine Qatar Tel. 4021 4777 • Villaggio Mall Tel. 44959060 • Landmark Mall Tel. 44565340 • Doha Festival City Tel. 40285019 virginmegastore.me virginmena virginmena virginmegastoreme

CITY LIVING OUR VERY OWN CITY GIRL POOJA ADAM INDULGED HERSELF IN A STAYCATION AT FIVE-STAR INTERNATIONAL HOTEL DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL DOHA OLD TOWN FOR SOME MUCH NEEDED RESPITE AND RELAXATION.

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â€¢ STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

ocated in the heart of the city, the Hilton Doubletree is a perfect fit for a quick staycation, or to stay whilst visiting Doha on business. When checking into the contemporary setting of the hotel lobby there is a small delightful cafe serving instantly recognisable Starbucks coffee, and there is ample seating in this stress-free environment for a casual meeting to take place. There was also a professional feel to the way the check-in lady greeted me, making me feel at ease that everything was in her hands, plus, I was handed a complimentary cookie, which will always make me feel welcome. Having visited the Doubletree for meetings in the past, I was somewhat familiar with the hotel but this was my first time staying here. The elevators had the most perfect selfie mirrors! The kind that lets you get a full outfit shot in one click! Ladies, you know what I mean. Upon entering the room for the first time I was very happy to find the room was welcoming and featured large windows allowing ample daylight to penetrate into the room, and it showcases a great view of the city and beyond! It was easy and convenient to find everything that I needed in the modern and neatly organised room totally in keeping with everything that you would expect from the Hilton. The look of a freshly made king size bed was calling me but I had to setup my laptop (thank goodness for the workspace setup in the layout of the room) to get some work done for a couple of hours before heading to the pool! The pool is located in the ‘Pure’ lounge on the roof of the hotel, and during the cooler months it’s a great way to experience the skyline whilst taking a dip and tasting one of their signature cocktails from the bar. During the hotter months they offer protection from the heat of the sun by climate control AC and fact magazine

covering the roof, although don’t worry as you still have the beautiful view of the corniche. In the evenings Pure is the perfect place to enjoy some music whilst having a relaxing drink, or two, during my stay the World Cup had just started and they had huge TV screens to enjoy the games, so I settled down to take in the game and the atmosphere. Soon after the sun had set it was time to get dressed for dinner. The bathroom was well equipped with a huge bathtub, but on this occasion I opted for the rainwater shower instead! The complimentary beauty products were L’Occitane, a beauty brand I just love! The hotel was conveniently casual (and family friendly) in their dining options so I wouldn’t dress up too much unless you were heading to the bar afterwards. I swapped my stilettos to flats for dinner! The hotel guests eat at the L2 restaurant and the menu alongside the service there was truly charming I must say. The starters were huge, the meats were cooked to perfection and the deserts were just delicious. There is also a smoking area serving shisha too for all the shisha lovers out there! For those who have visited the hotel before, the ground floor restaurant ‘Open’ is changing and will be a new Seafood restaurant aptly named “Claw” although not open yet, I’m hoping to be invited back to try what will undoubtedly be fantastic food. After rolling back to my room (from being so full), I decided to order in breakfast so I put the request on the door and fell into the most comfortable night’s sleep. Sure enough, the breakfast and especially the fresh pancakes were really worth waking up for in the morning! I still had some work to do before my massage appointment in the afternoon so I requested a late checkout and the receptionist was happy to oblige! For the fitness fanatic there is a fully equipped gym, with the latest fitness machines with all mod cons to assist with your workout. On this occasion though I skipped the gym and headed for a massage at the Aqua Lounge Spa which proved to be the perfect ending to my quick city break! I enjoyed a full body massage in the hands of an attentive masseuse. The massage was the ‘relaxation oil massage’ using soothing aromatherapy oils. It was one of the 46

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handful of ‘pick me up’ or ‘rejuvenation’ treatments that they had in their convenient lounge spa. It made me feel so relaxed and rejuvenated after such a busy holiday period, ready to face the rest of my day with a fresh outlook! ✤

GO: CALL 4034 3333 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. FOLLOW @DOUBLETREE.DOHA ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST. FOLLOW POOJA ADAM (@LESREBELLESQUAD) ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE ON LIFE IN DOHA.

“

DURING THE HOTTER MONTHS THEY OFFER PROTECTION FROM THE HEAT OF THE SUN BY CLIMATE CONTROL AC AND COVERING THE ROOF, ALTHOUGH DON’T WORRY AS YOU STILL HAVE THE BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF THE CORNICHE.” fact magazine

• GLOBETROTTER

THE MAGIC OF

MADRID

THE CAPITAL CITY AND FAMED CENTRE OF SPAIN, MADRID HAS BECOME A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION ON MANY BUCKET LISTS. A LONG WEEKEND IN THE LIVELY CITY IS ONLY MADE MORE INCREDIBLE BY THE ACCOMMODATION YOU CHOOSE TO CALL HOME DURING YOUR VISIT. FACT CHECKED INTO THE AVANT-GARDE GRAN MELIÁ FENIX HOTEL MADRID FOR A STAY THAT BLEW HIM AWAY…

fter staying in what amounts to at least over a hundred hotels worldwide, it takes a lot to make us say “wow” and to be genuinely impressed by a property. Enter the Gran Meliá Fénix Hotel in Madrid and all your expectations will go through the roof. How can a place so elegant yet modern exist right in the middle of such city bustle? It’s charming. There’s a quiet serenity that sets in when you walk into the vibrant marble-clad lobby. Plush sofas and chairs allow you to sink in and catch your breath after a day of sightseeing or shopping and friendly staff are there to assist you with check-in, smoothly and swiftly.

PREMIUM LIVING

Walking into our Premium Room is like walking into the stately quarters of a noble. Decorated in rich earthy tones of brown and beige, everything from the work desk to the armchair, the bedside wardrobe and even the headboard, are all intricate choices fit for VIP status. The colour palette of the decor and the furniture, and the stylish Anglo Saxon theme, creates a warm yet distinctive atmosphere. The queen size bed is beautiful, made to embody an exquisite English style that, together with the soundproofing, creates a distinctive and relaxing room. And we fall straight onto it, not waiting a second longer to catch a quick nap before freshening up in the lavish bathroom, ready to walk the streets of Madrid. The room is an absolute joy to be in. Services include express laundry, butler service, 24-hour in-room dining, shoe-shine, a pillow menu (excellent for anyone with allergies or specific pain that may require a special type of pillow) and the choice of Spanish or international daily newspapers on request. There is a big focus on personalised customer service here and we appreciate the small amenities that are added to the room for us every day. Turn on the 49-inch LED TV and enjoy one of its many channels or watch a movie from the DVD menu (on request). Post on social media by connecting to the fast Wi-Fi, but also leave time for a well-deserved pampering session in a bath that is delicately scented with the luxurious set of Clarins - Paris bathroom amenities. You’ll find that the room is equipped with everything you would require from a 5-star, distinguished property that belongs to the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World club. Hi-Fi with radio and CD player, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, thermal towel heater, hairdryer and make-up mirror, bathrobe and slippers, iron and ironing board (on request), electronic safe large enough for a laptop, and the most select and complete minibar that we have ever had the pleasure of enjoying in a hotel. Wins all around! 48

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GLOBETROTTER â€¢

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â€¢ GLOBETROTTER

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GLOBETROTTER •

DINING HEIGHTS

If you’re a bit of a food and drinks connoisseur, you are well and truly in your element at Gran Meliá Fenix Hotel Madrid. The restaurant Burgundy and the DRY Martini Bar by Javier de las Muelas offer two unique and innovative experiences that won’t be forgotten quickly. The first is fine-dining perfection; a distinctive restaurant offering modern cuisine using the freshest and best possible products. Behind all the work in the kitchen is Chef David Marcano, and in the bodega they have the “En Copa de Balón” sommelier team. These are just two things that give the restaurant its unique personality and offer visitors a complete dining experience. Delicious flavours and aromas, matching food and vino flawlessly, and making our evening dinner one of the most delightful gastronomic and oenological experiences in the city – that’s what Burgundy did for us. We highly recommend trying the ceviche of wild corvina with sweet potato and corn field and the tiger prawn salad in tempura accompanied by Japanese mayonnaise for starters, whilst the fried tuna loin grilled with demi-glace seasonal vegetables and the braised sirloin with salt flakes and chiantarella are both meticulously cooked and presented mains that satisfied every taste bud. For desert, the mouthwatering homemade cheese flan with seasonal fruit alongside the moreish torrija de pan brioche are the impeccable ending to our very satiating meal. Considered the “epicenter” of the cocktail scene in Madrid, the famous DRY Martini Bar by Javier de las Muelas has rapidly become the best way to start or end an evening in the city. It’s got a fantastic atmosphere and a sophisticated spirit that truly represents the emblem of the Gran Meliá Fénix Hotel.Of course, the drinks are pretty good too! If you’re looking for something a little more casual and with w view, try Aduana Restaurant. Located on the seventh floor of the hotel, it provides diners with spectacular views of Madrid. You’ll take a seat right above the heart of the Milla de Oro (Golden Mile) in the district of Salamanca, and you’ll be nibbling on modern Mediterranean and fusion cuisine. How gorgeous does that sound?

EXCLUSIVE EXPRESSION

Ok, now if you want to be treated like actual royalty then RedLevel are two very important words at the Gran Meliá Fénix Hotel. Experience the maximum expression of exclusivity with RedLevel. An experience that offers the most distinguished services and facilities in luxurious guest rooms and suites and also in all the private spaces reserved for RedLevel guests only. RedLevel is a fabulous exclusive and preferential service which guarantees superior levels of privacy and luxury for guests in a most select and refined ambience. Who said that you can’t live like a King or Queen for your holiday? RedLevel brings an even higher rank of distinction to the elegant Gran Meliá brand, creating a luxury boutique hotel within the hotel itself. RedLevel is a feature of Gran Meliá hotels that provides the most discerning guests with exclusive attention, a superior range of services, and elegant spaces reserved for RedLevel guests only. In short, the aim is to provide guests with maximum comfort and to make them the centre of attention with a superior range of highly personalised services. THIS is the kind of attention you want on a city break! Just some of the incredible RedLevel benefits include: Buffet and a la carte breakfast in a private breakfast room (from 7.30am to 11am); exclusive access to the RedLevel Lounge with Open Bar in the afternoon where you can enjoy a glass of Moët Chandon, top-brand drinks, snacks and tapas. There is also a lounge area with TV, music, library and board games; personalised check-in and check-out in the RedLevel reception; private reception and concierge service; complimentary wifi in the rooms and other RedLevel areas; preferential reservations at the DRY Martini Bar by Javier de las Muelas; Wii and PlayStation 3 video game consoles; personal butler service; in-room extras such as preparation of hydromassage bath and luggage, welcome gift, ironing of one item of clothing per stay, extensive aroma menu, and so much more. Is it worth going RedLevel? The answer is ABSOLUTELY. fact magazine

LOCATION WONDER

When you’re on a short city break, location matters above all things. You want to be able to take n as much of your new surroundings and all the important sites without having to go too far. The Gran Meliá Fénix Hotel ticks another box with its privileged location in the famous Plaza de Colón, setting an all-new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Madrid. You can discover some of the the city’s top cultural attractions through its most famous museums: The Prado, Reina Sofía, Thyssen Bornemisza and the National Archaeological Museum, and you’re right next to Serrano Street, Madrid’s most exclusive shopping district. You’re not far from many of the city’s top tourist hotspots as well as small nooks and plazas that can be easily explored on a leisurely walk. When you’re done with everything outside the hotel walls, head to the Thai Room Wellness where thermal circuit,

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GLOBETROTTER •

massages, and health and beauty treatments in the most relaxing ambience await you to melt the stress away. Since the hotel opened in 1953, it has been the preferred choice for a first visit to the city for prestigious guests such as The Beatles, Cary Grant and Rita Hayworth, among many other personalities, and if it’s good enough for those big names, it’s surely exceptional for us! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MELIA.COM OR CALL +34 912 76 47 47 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN A Prayer Before Dawn WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

When Billy Moore is sent to two of Thailand’s most notorious prisons, he is immediately thrown into a terrifying world of drugs and gang violence. With fighting tournaments being his only ticket to freedom, he embarks on a non-stop, action packed journey from one savage fight to next in order to finally regain the life he lost.

DIRECTOR: Jean-Stephane Sauvaire CAST: Joe Cole, Nicolas Shake, Somluck Kamsing

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

A grueling insight into one of the world’s most harrowing prisons, Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire’s Thai prison memoir is going to leave you with a lot of feelings. Based on a true story about English boxer Billy Moore, the movie fuses the world of boxing with the unforgiving world of violence and drugs. While keeping the sordid details of Moore’s past including his heroin addiction and 15 years spent in different prisons to a bare minimum, the film focuses on his life inside the nightmarish lock up. When a young English boxer is incarcerated in two notorious Thai prisons, he realises that taking part in Muay Thai boxing tournaments might be his only way out. Stopping at nothing, he moves from competition to competition to do whatever it takes to preserve his life and win back his independence. Shot in an actual Thai prison with a cast of primarily real inmates, A Prayer Before Dawn offers a raw and realistic look into Moore’s journey through a haunting hell on earth.

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Highlights

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The Spy Who Dumped Me WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

Shot in an actual Thai prison with a cast of primarily real inmates, A Prayer Before Dawn offers a raw and realistic look into Moore’s journey through a haunting hell on earth.

Best friends Morgan and Audrey unintentionally get entangled in an international conspiracy when one of the women discovers that the boyfriend who dumped her was actually a spy. What follows is a whole lot of action throughout Europe as they try to save the world.

– A Prayer Before Dawn

DIRECTOR: Susanna Fogel CAST: Mila Kunis, Kate McKinnon

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Featuring everything from actionpacked fun to hilarious dialogues, The Spy Who Dumped Me is the laidback comedy we need this summer! The film follows two 30-year-old best friends living in Los Angeles who are thrust unwittingly into an international conspiracy. When Audrey’s ex boyfriend shows up at their apartment with a team of deadly assassins on his trail, it’s up to the two bffs to hatch a plan to save the world as they run from assassins and a suspiciousbut-charming British agent. Hilarity ensues when the duo realise that international espionage is not their cup of tea. Go and watch it for all the LOL moments, star-studded cast and a fell-good vibes!

ENTERTAINMENT •

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Period: Twelve Voices Tell the Bloody Truth

ELECTRO-POP

POP

Palo Santo

Sweetener

By Years & Years

Taking you back to the good old 90s, Years & Years’ newest album has got us all kinds of excited! The follow-up to their hugely successful debut album, Communion, the band is back to woo us with their musical genius. Creating a whole new world featuring elements of sci-fi, identity and spiritualism, the trio aims to give us something that we have never seen before. Featuring a confessional narrative, Sanctify takes us on a journey of romantic chaos. Inspired by Alexander’s relationship with a straight man, the song fuses a lot of 00’s pop music influences including old school RnB. Showcasing the complex themes of sin and salvation, the band’s latest offering is their most commercially efficient yet. An empowered breakup anthem, If You’re Over Me is a song about trying to stay friends with an ex. An incredibly light and bubbly track, it features Olly Alexander’s clear and commanding vocals along with bright, exuberant production work. Definitely one of our favourite tracks on the album! Years & Years dives into deeper topics while still staying light and fresh. With the release of their highly-anticipated sophomore album, the British electro-pop collective continue to shine on!

By Ariana Grande

If you can’t stop listening to Ariana Grande’s No Tears Left to Cry or God is a Woman, you’re certainly not alone. While we knew Ari could never go wrong when it comes to delivering hits, we were so not ready for THIS! Her most emotional work to date, Sweetener introduces us to a much more vulnerable and raw side of the singer. Packed with bops that also carry powerful hidden messages, the album is all about bringing light to a situation or to someone’s life. An instant earworm, No Tears Left to Cry is a celebration of dancing against the odds. Summoning positive vibes, the uplifting lead single features slick beats along with Ariana’s stunning vocals. The only pick-me-up we need this summer! Moving away from this epic track, God is a Woman talks about female empowerment and what women mean to this world. Featuring a layered vocal performance, the sultry track has quickly taken over the world’s soundwaves. Mesmerising and unapologetic, Ariana Grande’s newest offering is bound to please fans and critics alike.

By Kate Farrell Bringing the often hushed topic of menstruation to the forefront, this is the kind of book that everybody needs to be talking about right now. Featuring a collection of essays that raise a variety of voices on a topic long 12 authors brings their own relatable stories about homeless periods, nonexistent periods, political periods and more. Go grab a copy right now!

FICTION

Mary B: An Untold Story of Pride and Prejudice By Katherine J. Chen Giving a refreshing spin to a cult classic. While there’s no dearth of retellings of the much-loved novel, Mary B turns the tables and narrates the story from Mary Bennet’s perspective. The book dives deep into Mary’s plain appearance and bookish demeanor and reveals an inner life that was hitherto undiscovered. We are transported beyond the centre of the ballroom and into the lives of the wallflowers. A delightful read and an intriguing homage to the beloved classic!

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR AUGUST…

BigOven

Flightradar24

Break out of your cooking rut with BigOven! Get inspired and organised in the kitchen and on the go with this simple cooking app. With over 350,000 recipes to choose from, the app lets you add snapshots of your own recipes, offers seasonal collections as well as lets you make a grocery list based on the recipes you’d like to create. Just type in three ingredients you have in your fridge and BigOven shows you what you can create with them. We’re never getting takeout again!

Travelling soon? Make air travel less stressful with Flightradar24! Packed with flight-tracking features, Flightradar24 is ideal for travelers and airplane enthusiasts alike. The free version lets you watch aircraft in the skies in real time, check on estimated departure and arrival times as well as search by flight number, airport or airline. That’s not all! If you need a greater depth of data, the app also includes photos, historical flight data and also a 3D pilot view.

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PLUGGED IN •

HYBRID STYLE The game-changing Dell XPS 15 2-in-1 is the crossover of laptops that any tech fiend on-the-go needs in their life…

rom endless Netflix sessions to keeping up with work deadlines, our trusty laptops have become one of the most important gadgets in our lives. Whether you’re looking for a simple budget PC, a gaming machine or a productivity powerhouse, finding the perfect laptop for your needs can be tricky. Making your selection process a little bit easier, we decided to take the new Dell XPS 15 2-in-1 for a spin. Setting a new bar for hybrid laptops, Dell has completely reinvented the Dell XPS 15 into a sleek 2-in-1 laptop. Perfect for people who need power and portability, the laptop offers build quality, great attention to detail as well as flexibility for a truly highend experience. Decked up in a similar design as its predecessors, the laptop offers one of the most comfortable palm rests ever along with some really excellent build quality. While the Dell XPS 2-in-1 isn’t quite a lightweight, the 360-degree hinge allows you to use the XPS in an easel or movie-watching mode. But what impressed us the most is the device’s selection of ports and the brand-new keyboard maglev technology. The maglev keyboard is more rigid and requires a firmer press but it is still very enjoyable to type on. When it comes to performance, the new Intel-meets-

AMD processor is a force to be reckoned with. Achieving better CineBench and GeekBench scores than any of its rivals, the laptop possesses an impressive new sensor hub that helps liberally boost frequencies. The sensor hub works along with the software to help monitor the device’s cooling and power for an automatic performance boost. No more overheating! The screen on the laptop measures 15.6 inches with thin bezels and supports Dell’s included stylus. It offers gorgeous bright colours with tons of pop and contrast without a lot of image sharpening. While the included pen has 4,096 levels of pressure as well as good weighing and draws with precision. If a good battery life is what you’re after, the Dell XPS 2-in-1 may not be a good option. While Dell claims the laptop can last up to 15 hours, the XPS 2-in1 definitely runs on the shorter side of the available battery life. The ‘smallest and thinnest 2-in-1 device of its size’, the laptop manages to get most things right. One of the most innovatively engineered and powerful laptops in the market right now, the Dell XPS 2-in-1 definitely deserves your attention. We won’t be putting it down anytime soon! ✤ fact magazine

â€˘ SOCIETY

#Q ATA R #M U S E U M S #P R E S E N T S #W O R L D-FA M O U S #PEARLS #EXHIBITION #IN #MOSCOW A new edition of the critically acclaimed Pearls: Treasures from the Seas and the Rivers exhibition has opened in Moscow as part of the Qatar Russia 2018 Year of Culture. The opening evening was attended by Qatar Museums CEO and Special Advisor to the Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Russian Federation Fahad bin Mohammed Al Attiyah and a number of VIPs. The exhibition displays 50 pieces of jewellery and other examples of pearl craftsmanship made from freshwater pearls born in Central Asia. It includes 20 new, never-before-shown artefacts specially selected for the exhibition in Russia. A QM exhibition is hosted by the World Diamond Museum at the Exhibition Center of the State Historical Museum in Moscow until October 1. The exhibition gives a rare opportunity to see some of the most beautiful pieces of pearl jewellery and rare natural pearls from Qatar Museumsâ€™ collection.

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FASHION FOCUS â€¢

SUMMER WITH TOMMY HILFIGER

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• FASHION FOCUS

nspired by Tommy Hilfiger’s love of travel and adventure, the Summer Pre-Fall 2018 collection is introduced on the Vacation store, which celebrates the latest summer trends. The collection is an escape into the vast desert landscape, where natural earthy tones are mixed with playful graphics – talk about the perfect concept for where we are in the world! With bold colours and lightweight fabrics, the collections for both men and women incorporate block stripes, tiedye finishes and floral patterns as well as a nomadic twist to classic American cool essentials. ✤

GO: SHOP TOMMY HILFIGER’S SUMMER PREFALL 2018 COLLECTION IN STORES NOW.

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FASHION FOCUS â€¢

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• FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM TOMMY HILFIGER’S SUMMER PRE-FALL COLLECTION FOR HER

FOR HIM

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN TOMMY HILFIGER STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 62

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‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

Tel. 4421 9357

Mob. 3377 2735 P.O. Box: 7346 Doha - Qatar factmagazine magazine fact

ohlala arabia.indd 1

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10/22/15 2:30 PM

• STYLE

Rainbow Vibes Everywhere you turn, there’s another vibrant pop of colour. Summer 2018 has well and truly embraced the idea of pairing the brightest, most clashing colours together, and making it work! In order to pull this look off flawlessly, the key is to mix up the hues from head to toe – sunnies, top, trousers, shoes – make it all standout in different candy-inspired shades.

01. M&Co 02. Topshop 03. Laura Ashley 04. Cath Kidston 05. Dune 06. Bershka 07. Oasis 08. Dorothy Perkins 09. H&M 10. Evans 11. New Look 12. River Island

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STYLE •

Beach Daze Hawaiian, tropical and easy breezy – gents, you’ve got it good this summer as the sun brings with it a great excuse to strut the most floral, tropics-esque prints on shirts, shorts, flip flops and every fashion piece in between. Don’t be shy, the more decorated the outfit, the more you’re likely to win with your summer wardrobe.

01. ASOS 02. Bershka 03. Debenhams 04. F&F 05. House of Fraser 06. M&Co 07. Marks and Spencer 08. Matalan 09. Mens at Dune 10. New Look 11. Next 12. River Island

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• INTERIOR TRENDS

Glass Rules It seems that many summer homes are adopting the use of glass pieces to add a touch of class, sophistication or fun to their interiors. Whether it be an elegant glass vase, a beautiful cosmo glass, chic glass candle holders or even fruity decorated glasses to sip something cool in this heat, Debenhams’ selection of homeware celebrates glass for the summer season and we’re in love! 66

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HOME STYLE •

THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT Laura Ashley’s SS’18 Home Collection incorporates the use of one of summer’s most beautiful creatures – the colourful butterfly. Adorned on everything from glassware to cushions, placemats and vanity cases – if you love butterflies, this is the summer interior trend for you.

GO: SHOP NOW AT YOUR NEAREST LAURA ASHLEY STORE. fact magazine

• BEAUTY BOX

Beauty Checklist THE WORST OF THE HOT AND HUMID DAYS ARE STILL YET TO COME, SO WE’VE PICKED SOME OF THE LATEST MAKEUP AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS TO KEEP YOU LOOKING FRESH THIS SUMMER.

K7L LIPSILK MATTE

This summer, turn up your makeup game with K7L’s longwear Lipsilk Matte Crayon! For a pout that packs a punch, choose from a wide array of vibrant shades including ruby red and hot pink. Formulated to withstand even the hottest days of summer, the matte effect lip crayon combines the precision of a pencil with the smooth application of a lipstick.

Fenty Beauty

MOROCCAN SPICE EYESHADOW PALETTE Inspired by the pink and gold sands of the Sahara and the metallic-blues of Morocco, Fenty Beauty’s new Moroccan Spice Eyeshadow

Palette is all kinds of gorgeous! The rainbow of 16 richly pigmented shades, the palette combines everything you need to take you from hot, steamy days to sultry, smoky nights. The versatile range offers everything from matte, shimmer, satin, pearl and metallic to satisfy every craving.

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Sephora HONEY LIP SCRUB Get the smoothest pout ever with Sephora’s new Honey Lip Scrub! Formulated with gentle sugar exfoliants to smooth and soften lips, it gets rid of dead skin and dryness to give you luscious lips. The delicious addictive scent will meet all your lip concerns and boost every mood. Use it to prime your lips for lipstick and other lip products.

Glamglow GRAVITYMUD FIRMING TREATMENT Give your skin the pampering it deserves with Glamglow’s Gravitymud Firming Treatment. Formulated with mega-targeted ingredients, the innovative mask changes colour from white to shiny chrome. Once peeled off, the mud-based facemask leaves skin with a tighter and more lifted appearance.

Benefit HOOLA TRAVEL SIZE MATTE BRONZER Travelling soon? Benefit has got you covered! The award-winning Hoola Matte Bronzer is now available in a convenient travel size. Dust on Benefit’s iconic Hoola Matte Bronzer across the chin, cheeks and forehead for a healthy, natural-looking tan all year-round. Complete with a soft, natural-bristle cheek brush, it delivers pure matte colour without leaving behind any shine or shimmer.

Aesop PROTECTIVE FACIAL LOTION As the temperatures continue to rise, protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays with Aesop’s Protective Facial Lotion. Packed with skin-loving antioxidants, the lightweight hydrator provides exceptional broad-spectrum protection against the effects of UVA and UVB rays. In addition to effective protection, the SPF formulation helps deliver hydration and skin-softening nourishment.

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GROOMING BOX •

Grooming Checklist GENTS, THE SUMMER DAYS ARE NOT ONLY A CHORE FOR ALL THE LADIES OUT THERE, WE KNOW YOU’VE GOT TO KEEP YOUR GROOMING GAME ON POINT TOO. HERE’S OUR PICK OF MUST-HAVES FOR THE MONTH AHEAD.

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Dolce & Gabbana LIGHT BLUE POUR HOMME: ITALIAN ZEST

Inspired by the Italian scorza di limone, Dolce & Gabbana’s latest summer fragrance is all you need this season! Adding a fresh twist to its cult scent, Light Blue Pour Homme, the new scent celebrates the joyfulness of a sunny summer day in Capri. Brightened with lavish essences of best quality Italian citruses, the Italian Zest Limited Edition offers a rich and refreshing olfactive experience.

Kerastase BAIN DIVALENT SHAMPOO Dedicated to oily scalp and sensitised lengths, Kerastase’s Bain Divalent Shampoo is a total summer essential. Designed to perfectly regulate excess sebum production and to repair and nourish sensitised areas of the hair, it cleanses and purifies the scalp while regaining softness and shine. Leaves your hair feeling healthier, shinier and softer than ever!

Bumble and Bumble SURF SPRAY Give your hair a much-needed texture boost with Bumble and Bumble’s saltwater-based Surf Spray! Impeccable matte volume, texture and just-off-the-beach waves are just a spritz away with Surf Spray’s salt-infused formula. The replicated and improved effect of saltwater with salt mineral complex delivers hair-nourishing ingredients, including seaweed and coconut water for enhanced moisture.

Lab Series SOLID WATER ESSENCE

Beat the heat with Lab Series’ refreshing Solid Water Essence! An energising facial gel, the liquid “essence” provides an instant energy boost to soothe tired, dry skin. The advanced formula uses bamboo-infused water to instantly hydrate while a stimulating punch of Ginseng and invigorating Caffeine help skin fight fatigue and amp up hydration.

Jack Black OIL-FREE SUN GUARD VERY WATER RESISTANT SUNSCREEN SPF 45

Give your skin some extra care and protection this summer! A long-lasting and powerful formula with SPF 45, it instantly absorbs into the skin without leaving any greasy residue. Enriched with skinloving vitamins, the non-greasy and oil-free formula lasts up to 80 minutes even in the most intense conditions.

Sacoor Brothers GENTLEMAN EAU DE PARFUM Celebrating the everyday gentleman in the present day of age, Sacoor Brothers’ first ever fragrance is the sophisticated new scent you need in your life! An elegant yet seductive fragrance, it combines an array of captivating ingredients for a refined, lasting scent. Its dynamic composition as well as a sensual woody base blended with cinnamon and leather makes for a one of a kind Eau De Parfum.

6 fact magazine

Carrefour Reward App

1 QR You must have it = 1 pOINT

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Carrefour Qatar App new version NEW VERSION

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you will keep the same number of MyCLUB points after upgrading your app

Download the app now Start earning points right away from the first riyal you spend on selected categories QR

Download now the Carrefour Qatar App, register for MyCLUB and start saving!

For more info, visit: carrefourqatar.com

www.qatar.carrefourmyclub.com 70

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FOODIE CORNER •

THE SOUL OF SALSA

Bridging the cultural gap through incredible flavours, Salsa at the Doha Marriott Hotel has become somewhat of an iconic dining destination that blends a lively atmosphere with vibrant colours and effervescent dishes. Recently, the restaurant invited a guest chef to take the helm and he’s whipped up some completely authentic menu items that give a whole new spin to the term “Tex-Mex” – and we love it! fact magazine

• FOODIE CORNER

nytime someone in our friend’s circle suggests going out for Mexican food, the one place at the top of everyone’s list is Salsa at the Doha Marriott Hotel. And even though we adore the food here, it’s great to see that that the restaurant has invested in giving the menu a new lease of life. Flown in all the way from the W Hotel in Mexico, Chef Efrain Flores, recently spent time with Salsa’s culinary team to introduce some truly delicious Mexican dishes for diners to savour. Born in the city of Campeche, southeast of Mexico in 1983, since he was a child, Chef Efrain learned the delicious flavours of his hometown’s cuisine, with high-quality and fresh ingredients such as octopus, red snapper, achiote, habanero pepper, pitaya and guanábana. His most fond gastronomic memories are set around his grandmother and mother – as both are great cooks from whom he learned good seasoning and fine cooking. And this spurred him on to become a part of the professional culinary industry. Thankfully for our taste buds, we began with a super crisp, light and conventionally Mexican Ensalada De Habas, boasting baby corn, sweet corn and tomato dressed in apple vinaigrette. A simple but tasty way to start! The Table Side Guacamole is not only an interactive surprise – prepared fresh at your table – it’s also one of the best avo concoctions that we’ve tasted in a long time. Dip a corn tortilla chip into the mix and you’ve got another winning dish. Another pick from the cold bites which really demonstrates Chef Efrain’s knowledge, skills and love of his roots, is the Ceviche Estilo Acapulco – traditional Mexican shrimps with cocktail sauce. Can you say YUMMY. It was flavourful perfection. Going back to Chef Efrain’s childhood – his father is now a retired soldier, so back in the day they lived a short time in one city and then moved to another. Thanks to this, he was able to experience first-hand the different cultures, ingredients and plates of several regions of the country. And as Mexico has a long cultural history alongside many climates, it makes for a country with a great variety of epicurean regions. This is further highlighted through the hot bites menu where you’ll find the most satisfying Traditional Tacos filled with your choice of beef or chicken and topped with all the goodness of onion, cilantro, guacamole and sour cream, as well as gratifying corn tortilla pockets packed with either beef tenderloin or chicken breast and a swish of homemade ranchera sauce and unsalted cheese – this ladies and gents, is the mighty Enchilada – 72

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FOODIE CORNER •

and you won’t forget it anytime soon. A menu of soups and street food keeps the momentum going as we eagerly await our mains. Stealing the top spot was the Short Ribes En Mole Verde – slow braised ribs with baby carrots and corn. WHAT. A. DISH. If you’re a meat lover who likes things tender but absorbed in flavour, this is the main for you. The Camarones A La Parrilla – jumbo shrimps grilled to perfection served with refried beans, Mexican rice and guacamole is also a fabulous surprise, and one that seafood fans will appreciate. What we enjoyed most was the concept of Parrillas Charcoal Grilled where you can cook your own tender steak on a hot plate at your table (or alternatively let the staff know how you want it done). This was a fantastic conversation starter that kept the diner involved. Of course, what’s a Mexican restaurant without fajitas and burritos – both classic choices that Salsa does very well. For dessert, you might be tempted to go for the Churros – and they are pretty impressive, but we’d highly urge you to try the Chili Chocolate Cake. WOW! Be prepared to have your palate blown away – literally. This is a dense espresso, chili and chocolate baked cake with cinnamon ice cream and the best part – it’s gluten free. We devoured each bite, having never tasted anything like it in Doha! Chef Efrain’s favourite quote is “Ambition without patience is dangerous” by Ferrán Adriá – and if there’s one thing that you can taste in Salsa’s new menu, it’s a whole lot of ambition with a hint of welcomed danger – make sure you go hungry! ✤

GO: VISIT SALSA AT THE DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL. CALL 4429 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

Get your daily dose of FACT online now

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE www.fact-magazine.com 74

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

ON THE HUNT FOR LUNCH When it comes to quick, delicious and value-for-money lunches, you wouldn’t expect to tick all three boxes at a 5-star hotel. Think again! FACT’s Craig Ferriman takes a seat at Hunters Room & Grill in The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa for a summer lunch that proves a hit…

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

e’re all busy people but that doesn’t mean that we can’t step out for a quality lunch at a decent price. Business lunches have boomed over the past couple of years and Hunters Room & Grill at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa is a really excellent option if you’re in the Al Sadd area. Perhaps you’re entertaining clients, celebrating a contract or grabbing a bite with colleagues in the middle of the day. Hunters understand this and they know you don’t have time to waste. They have designed a quick and effective lunchtime menu that is wholesome and delicious. To whet the appetite, you can chomp on a chopped salad. The key element is the avocado. There is some pulled chicken in there and the zing comes from the mustard vinaigrette but it was full of healthy goodness and you certainly get bang for your buck with that appetiser. You may be tempted instead by the crab cake croquettes which are given a slight kick with cajun remoulade, pickled avocado and crispy potato. They were moist and a tad oily but better that than too dry. We were introduced to Chef Bradley. He is a man who is passionate about cooking and hails from Cape Town, South Africa. He’s only been in Doha a couple of years but has wasted no time driving standards in the Hunters’ kitchen with a preponderance for prime cuts and solid ingredients which he inspects personally when the suppliers visit. If he doesn’t like the look of the cut, he won’t be cooking it for customers. It’s that simple - and we value his straightforward approach. Though a steakhouse and known for excellent steaks in the evening, lunchtime diners are given a more relaxed and casual offering. I’m talking hamburgers. Chef Bradley tells me that he wants his guests to eat with their hands but either I’m too dainty or my mouth is too small to fit the giant buns in one bite without making an almighty mess. The aviary is a chicken burger with superbly grilled chicken, cheese, avocado, chipotle mayonnaise, tomato, lettuce and onion. The hades is the beef burger. I couldn’t get over how tasty the meat was when you bit into that burger. The bread was almost a waste really compared to how good the main event was. The meat is U.S. prime beef and added to the mix is some cajun remoulade, tabasco pickled onion, chipotle mayonnaise, tomato, lettuce and onions. If I’m honest it was really a mouthful but it sure was tasty. A great lunch that didn’t leave me feeling stuffed or bloated by the end which is usually a sign of eating fresh rather than chemically laced fatty food. The desserts were good too. Not prize-winning but good palate polishers to round out the experience properly. The oreo and chocolate mousse cake is a creation by Chef Bradley who is himself a big oreo 76

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

lover. Broken oreos lie atop a chocolate ganache with macerated berries and a sweet cream Anglaise oozing out from underneath. I personally preferred their attempt at New York cheesecake which was soft and smooth with a gorgeous sundried cherry compote. Sunlight pours in from the glass roof above but being indoors you can feel like you’re in the sunshine without perspiring in the heat that the sun emits. The atmosphere had a tranquil oasis feel thanks to the water features on the patios of the mezzanine floo, in the middle of the hotel, making you feel calm and cool - the ideal antidote to a busy day at work. ✤

GO: HUNTERS PATIO SUMMER LUNCH IS SERVED FROM 12NOON TO 4PM, DAILY. CALL 3359 8514 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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For the culture-savvy in Qatar

AUGUST EDITION AVAILABLE NOW on issuu.com/factmagazine 78

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WELLNESS DAY •

CITY WELLNESS WONDER InterContinental Doha The City (IDTC) is a wonderful property and a great place to spend a day of fitness and leisure, as FACT’s Craig Ferriman finds out…

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t 59-floors high, the IDTC building is a towering beacon in the West Bay skyline and if you lay it on its side, it may well extend into the sea. It is also excellently positioned and makes full use of its stunning views. I started my day there in the gym on level 46. It is a large space with plenty of equipment and lots of room between machines so there wasnâ€™t a feeling of being cramped. From the treadmill, I could look out over the main street that runs past the City Centre mall. I could get lost in the myriad mountain of skyscrapers and marvel at the frenetic activity over a hundred feet below. From the cross trainer I could look out from the north side of the tower at the new architectural spectacle that is the Rainbow Arches standing aside the start of the Lusail Expressway. I take it almost for granted on a daily basis driving past it at speed but seeing it from an elevated angle while going about my cardio work out was something else. There were lots of dumbbells and units for weight training and though not there for personal training, the staff were on hand to guide me through the equipment to get the most use out of it while not doing myself an injury. Take Loila, for example, who was always standing by and close to hand while still giving me space. There is a pool here and it is both inside and outside depending on how you think of it. That is because an intricate sloping grill pattern covers the pool and deflects the full intensity of the sun while still allowing 80

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WELLNESS DAY •

any residual breeze in and some rays too. There is probably an hour in the very middle of the day when the sun is shining directly above where it can get a little hot but otherwise it is fine. The pool is not deep and forms an L shape in the western side of the tower on the 46th floor. It slightly felt like swimming on an aeroplane because I was higher than almost everything else around me! There are loungers as well as sofas and chairs so you can relax in any position. Just next to the pool itself is a larger informal relaxium with cold fridges and staff who pass by. You can place orders for light snacks, refreshing beverages or ice cream with them. In a spirit of trying new things, I took part in a trial for a class that they offer. This class has been available for a couple of years now but is niche due to the involvement of expensive equipment. It’s called EMS which stands for electrical muscle stimulation. It is the process of muscle contraction using electrical impulses. It is a strength-training tool. My Ukrainian instructor, Anastasia, provided me with clothing. You basically have to wear a tight fighting top and leggings and on top of that, you wear an electrical vest full of wires. It sounds ridiculous to say this but I then plugged myself into a machine with a cable and Anastasia took care of the range and strength of electrical pulses that were coarsing into me at regular intervals. During the moments that pulses were hitting different parts of my body, I would do squats or other exercises while the muscles were contracting. I was told that doing 20 minutes of this is the equivalent to a full two-hour work out and I can honestly say that my body felt it everywhere afterwards and I felt like I’d completed endurance training! I had justified a lovely lunch by this point and I was slightly spoiled for choice. Firstly there is the lobby level Al Jalsa Garden Lounge open from noon until 2am serving shisha, food and beverages. Then there is the all-day dining available in The Square which serves an international menu. I, however, chose Hwang which is located on the first floor and is a bit of a favourite dining spot of mine. Liezel always provides a warm welcome front of house. I had never had lunch there before and

so did not know about the brilliant bento box they offer. For 75 riyals, the box contains some sushi, a choice of hot mains with rice plus a rich chili chocolate pudding. I opted for kung pao chicken which was delicious and just the right portion for a hearty and healthy lunch that did not render me unable to move afterwards. Hwang is a top notch place to eat and the staff are some of the friendliest and most welcoming in the city. Then again, I found myself feeling that about everyone in this hotel exceptionally professional and providing excellent service. It is just a truly lovely place to spend the day. ✤

GO: CALL 4015 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• FOODIE PICK

Business Lunch Brilliance Whether it’s for business or simply a casual catch-up with friends, create a lasting impression by treating your special guest to a Business Lunch at the brand new Wyndham Doha West Bay. The five-star hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Doha’s thriving business and leisure district with The Gate Mall just across the road. Avoid the usual foodie spots and the crowd, and instead opt for the laidback vibes at Wyndham Doha West Bay. Business Lunch provides different options for set menus featuring traditional Arabic, Western and Malaysian delights. The selection of an appetiser or soup, mouth-watering main course, delicious 82

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dessert and refreshing beverage options offer plenty of variety for guests to indulge. The business lunch is available from 12noon to 3pm at the restaurant located on the 4th floor for just QR65 per person. Good food at a great price – that’s what we’re talking about! ✤

GO: CALL 4008 7000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Enjoy a mix of local and international ﬂavors featuring Mediterranean and Asian salads, Sushi, ﬁnest seafood and Arabic Mezzeh. Our chefs are serving Italian pasta and Mexican classics from live stations. Relish Indian specialties and grilled meats paired with refreshing summer Mocktails.

Prices:

Residents: QAR 250 per adult and QAR 125 per kid Non – Residents: QAR 300 per adult and QAR 175 per kid including boat transfers For bookings, please tel +974 4040 5050 / +974 4040 5075 or email fbreservations.adoh@anantara.com For online bookings, please visit doha.anantara.com

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RECHARGE. REST. RETREAT This summer, enjoy up to 30% discount on your stay, your dining and spa experiences – all at once!* With 6 award-winning restaurants, a luxury Spa and an outdoor pool as well, the Doha Marriott Hotel is the perfect place to redeem such a holistic discount.

Call+974 4429 8888 or visit www.dohamarriott.com and click on “Deals” to redeem this unique oﬀer.

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20% off best available rate, in the restaurants and at The Spa. Loyalty Program Members enjoy 30% off. Offer valid until 31/09/2018.