Issuu

ISSUE N’11

THE AUTUMN FASHION BEYOND FRINGE

A dream wedding begins with an unforgettable location. We offer the elegant setting for your special occasion with a tailored experience inspired by romance. Say “Yes I do” at Alwadi Doha - MGallery Hotel Collection Msheireb Downtown Doha | Email: reservations.alwadihotel@accor.com | Tel: +974 4009 9999

Alwadi Doha - MGallery Hotel Collection A truly memorable venue for your special day

MGALLERY. STORIES THAT STAY

Since 2017

The Elements (necklace)

Salam Cedar of Lebanon (necklace)

(customized names)

Ring

(customized calligraphy)

Since 2017

Lea Earings (arabic calligraphy)

A Romantic Staycation At The Banyan Tree Doha –The Best Retreat For Couples Review

24 A Destination Wedding Like Nowhere Else At Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

Smile It Is Your Wedding Day!

By Dr. Nour Zoarob

60 Meet The Chef: Joe Barza A Master Of Modern Lebanese Cuisine Interview By Elias Haddad

2021 ISSUE N’11

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ELIAS HADDAD MANAGING EDITOR LESLIE FERNANDEZ MINDSET COACH ANAHI ORTIZ PRIETO STYLE EDITOR JULIANA HEIDE FASHION EDITOR MARTA BEVIN BEAUTY EDITOR SAKSHI TEJPAUL PHOTOGRAPHER SMILE FOR PROFILE SHADIRA PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO PHACTORY BY PRADEEP FARHAT NAWEED PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC DESIGNER RAKIBUL ISLAM COVER IMAGE SMILE FOR PROFILE If you want to get in touch with us, you can contact LLQ Lifestyle Magazine using the email addresses below. elias@llqlifestyle.com Advertising If you would like more information about advertising on LLQ, please email 

info@llqlifestyle.com

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The Editor’s Note Hello readers, I am sure you all are finally happy to see the glimmer of hope after a long pandemic that made our lives stationary. As much as I liked working from home in my comfort, I eagerly missed the human connection we had pre-covid. Parties, events, weddings and get together were taken so for granted until they all went in vain for good years. However, now that we have vaccines rolling in the world, I can smell lots of food, get-togethers, wedding, and meetups. Since winters bring a lot of festive including the wedding season, I am sure you are more than ready to ball on your favorite songs with your friends. Don’t worry about the styling though, we will be sharing some great tips with you. And as of right now, fall is already here. I am hoping you are styling your favorite sweaters with some cute accessories. It’s finally time to snooze your stress and relish the special moments that will be celebrated after a long pause. I am ready with my long boots and pink sweater to welcome fall. I am eager to know what you are planning to do this fall. If you want to share your story with us, feel free to write back to us. Remember that you are important to us and we care for you, a lot!.

Enjoy the fresh issue of LLQ Lifestyle!

Leslie

LU X URY

LIVING

E XPER IENCE

For more information, please call 4410 3333 or email sales.doha@banyantree.com banyantree.com

J E W E L L E D 14

A n U n v e i l i n g O f G a r ra rd ’s Je w e l l e d Va u l t Bold in colour and breathtaking in design, the Jewelled Vault is home to Garrard’s most striking, unique and unusual gemstones. With no two stones and no two designs the same, each Jewelled Vault creation is truly one of a kind – a work of art.

onouring the innate character and unique qualities that distinguish the world’s most exceptional stones – Royal Blue sapphires, Colombian emeralds, Pigeon’s Blood rubies, Padparadscha sapphires and other rarities – each stone in the Jewelled Vault is selected for its showstopping beauty. The Jewelled Vault takes its inspiration from a royal style icon, whose love of the best and most beautiful gemstones was legendary. Maria Alexandrovna, the Duchess of Edinburgh, travelled from Russia to England to marry Queen Victoria’s second son, Prince Alfred, in 1874. With her, she brought an incredible collection of jewels, which grew as she commissioned new designs from Garrard. The jewels were kept in a magnificent vault at the royal residence, Clarence House, and were arranged by colour, creating a vivid palette of gemstones. This vault continues to inspire Garrard’s creative director, Sara Prentice.

“The design concept is unique. The stones are the stars, and we only begin designing a Jewelled Vault piece when our gemmologists have discovered an outstanding new gem”, says Sara. From Queen Victoria’s sapphire cluster brooch to Princess Diana’s engagement ring, many of Garrard’s most famous royal jewels feature rare, exceptionally fine sapphires. A 5 carat sapphire and diamond Jewelled Vault ring pays homage to this vibrant legacy, echoing the iconic cluster design. Only stellar rubies that display the highly prized shade of Pigeon’s Blood are selected for the Jewelled Vault – opulent, ‘redder than red’ stones that are vanishingly rare in the world of gemstones. Garrard celebrates the rarefied beauty of Colombian emeralds in designs that channel light through the centre stones, illuminating their vivid green colour.

Modern masterpieces designed to celebrate nature’s greatest miracles, Garrard’s creative flair and coloured stone expertise converge in the Jewelled Vault.

‫فيالت ويستن المميزة‬ ‫إستمتع بعطلة رائعة في إحدى فيالت ويستن الرائعة بالقرب من الحدائق الفاتنة و تمتع بخصوصية‬ ‫كاملة مع عائلتك في فيال بغرفة واحدة أو غرفتين بالقرب من حمام السباحة الخاص بك‪.‬‬

‫لمزيد من المعلومات‬ ‫‪4492 1600‬‬ ‫‪reservations.doha@westin.com‬‬

‫‪15‬‬

A ROYAL OAK DOUBLE BALANCE WHEEL OPENWORKED PAVED WITH DIAMONDS Le Brassus, September 2021 – Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet is delighted to present a new 18-carat pink gold Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked timepiece set with 436 baguette-cut diamonds. Full of contrasts, this 41 mm iteration complements the elegant model in white gold released in 2020. The diamonds’ purity and shimmering effect create interesting plays of light and illuminate the cutting-edge double balance wheel mechanism visible on both sides of the watch. The radiance and elegance of this distinctive timepiece marrying Haute Horlogerie and Haute Joaillerie will attract attention from a distance. The Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked model will be launched in Italy before being available globally from October 2021.

The 436 baguette-cut diamonds adorning the case, bracelet and bezel The glittering case and bracelet illuminate of the new Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked have been the openworked mechanism, whose rhodiumcarefully selected to respond to the Manufacture’s highest criteria in toned hues harmoniously echo the grey shades terms of clarity, cut and colour. The diamonds have been individually of the inner bezel and reflecting diamonds. To add cut and polished to reach clear and sharp angles before being a subtle hint of colour, the hour-markers are adorned invisibly set by hand. Tiny grooves are delicately cut in each stone. with 11 pink gold-toned baguette-cut sapphires, around The baguette-cut diamonds are then snapped into a hidden rail which rotate the 18-carat pink gold Royal Oak hands. mounted in the gold case as well as in the bracelet’s links and Visible through the sapphire caseback, the 22-carat pink connecting studs, giving the impression that they are holding gold double balance wheel pushes the contrast further for a on their own. Pushing meticulousness a step further, the refined touch down to the last detail. gemsetting continues all the way down to the folding clasp, reflecting light, while creating a pure scintillating “Born in Le Brassus, effect.

raised around the world.” 16

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For reservations, please call 4410 3310 or Whatsapp 3992 0808

JACOB & CO. UNVEILS FIRST MINUTE REPEATER IN SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL CASE

acob & Co. has just released three timepieces from its Twin Turbo Furious collection that features both a fully transparent sapphire crystal case and a decimal minute repeater, a first in the world of haute horlogerie.

This includes the “Bugatti Blue” timepiece, which celebrates the iconic manufacturer of highperformance sports cars. Each of these watches, inspired by the speed and beauty of hypercars, is being produced in a limited edition of six pieces. “Even after 35 years, we continue to create timepieces that are groundbreaking and innovative,” says Jacob Arabo, Founder of Jacob & Co. “Creating a watch with a transparent sapphire case and a minute repeater is a revolutionary concept that was extremely difficult to achieve. We are proud to be the first watch brand to achieve this difficult feat.” The sapphire crystal case provides a full view of the complex machinery of the Twin Turbo Furious, powered by the manual winding JCFM05 movement with a 50-hour power reserve. This includes the groundbreaking group of exclusive complications, such as the decimal minuterepeater, twin high-speed tourbillons, monopusher chronograph, and a pit-board style reference indicator.

When it comes to contemporary high-tech watchmaking, the creation of a sapphire crystal case is one of the pinnacles of achievement. The unique shape of the Twin Turbo Furious sapphire crystal case made this an even more challenging project. Developing the design took nearly nine months. Producing the case by first growing the sapphire crystal from aluminum oxide, then shaping the case through a combination of stateof-the-art numeric machinery and detailed hand polishing took another six months for each case. The obstacles were plenty. Normally the fivesided 57mm by 52mm case is made of 88 components. This was reduced to just a handful of parts, including the main case, the front and back sapphire crystal covers and the slide at 8 o’clock that activates the decimal minute repeater. The only part of the watch that isn’t made of sapphire crystal is the 18k white gold crank at 3 o’clock that winds and sets the many complications.

Your Happily Ever After

Fairy tales unveiled, touched with luxury and elegance as Sharq Village & Spa sets a scene for weddings like no other. For inquiries, call 4425 6666 or email our event specialists at rc-sharqvillageleads@ritzcarlton.com

.‫نهتم بكل التفاصيل من البداية لنضمن لكم فعاليات و اجتماعات ناجحة‬ ‫ أو‬4425 6666 ‫ يرجى االتصال بنا على الرقم‬،‫للحجز واالستعالم‬

rc-sharqvillageleads@ritzcarlton.com :‫التواصل مع الفريق المختص بتنظيم الفعاليات عبر البريد اإللكتروني‬ 19

LUXURY JEWELRY BRAND MARLI NEW YORK INTRODUCES THE CLEO BY MARLI LIMITED EDITION EYEGLASS CHAIN ewelry brand MARLI New York presents the latest addition to the Cleo by MARLI collection, The Eyeglass Chain. MARLI is always looking for ways to complement the look and style of its customers by offering jewelry pieces that are chic and sophisticated. The newest eyeglass chain is inspired by this notion of offering perfect styling pieces that can be worn to enhance any look. MARLI wants all customers to feel and look their best in their everyday life.

The Cleo collection, known for its rich color stone variations, is introducing the glass chain in White Agate, Turquoise, Green Agate, Pink Coral, Lapis Lazuli, Red Coral in both Rose and Yellow Gold. Founder and Creative Director Maral Artinian said, “The eyeglass chain adds an extra styling layer making it fun and playful with the six different colorways offered for an eyecatching look.”

To add an interactive dimension to this exciting launch an immersive filter will be created for customers to enjoy the Eyeglass Chain virtually, style it their way and share it on social media.

The Eyeglass Chain is a Limited-Edition piece that will only be available in flagship stores across the New York Hudson Yards, The Dubai Mall, The Avenues, 360 Kuwait, Doha Festival City, and the latest Paris location in Rue Royale.

O R I A N A

T H E D E

N E W M A R L Y

A cloud of joy. A delicate and airy fragrance like a linen dress. Nostalgic pleasure. Parfums de Marly unveils its new elixir – a new, addictive world of indulgence. Oriana – the story of a heroine with character and a hypnotic sillage.

P A R F U M S D E L I C A C Y

This new indulgence is available in 75 ml in Parfums de Marly boutiques in September 2021 and worldwide from October Orange blossom has never2021. been so prismatic. Seductive, radiant, powdery. Euphoric. Chantilly cream lingers on the skin. They say that the famous ‘milk cream’ was whipped up by Procopio, the inventor of gelato, in honor of the prince and future king Louis XV at another grand French castle – Chantilly. True to its passion for the 18th century and its perfumed, refined court, with its scent-embellished jewels, fans and even fountains, Marly has reinvented this very cosmetic note. As with every Parfums de Marly creation, Oriana is full of references. A brilliant balance between tradition and innovation; added savor; the taste of the century flavored with history, thanks to the unparalleled boldness of its founder and artistic director Julien Sprecher.

Live moments that are truly yours

murwabhotelgroup.com

D E S T I N A T I

PHOTOGRAPHER & CREATIVE STYLIST: FARHAT NAWEED PHOTOGRAPHY

JEWELLERY:

BRIDAL COUTURE: SPOSABELLA QATAR – HAIR & MAKEUP:

AL DARWISH JEWELLERY / YSABELLA FINE JEWELLERY

DIANA BELKA & SALOON RAYYAN

BY RK / BISHAN

MODELS:

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

AIZAT KURMANBEKOVA, KASIA MAGDALINSKA AND ESRA

HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT

O N

W E D D I N G

LIKE NOWHERE ELSE AT HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT & VILLAS

From elegant ballrooms to intimate outdoor settings, we transform our spaces to create fairytale venues for couples. With impeccable menu options, exceptional customer service and a stellar events team, Hilton Salwa Beach Resorts & Villas will help you celebrate love in a unique way and make your dreams come true. With Arabesque interiors marrying brilliant blue and calming white colours, every corner you turn is picturesque; providing a perfect backdrop to capture beautiful memories during your special celebration.

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas also offers a diverse collection of extraordinary venues and versatile spaces for events and meetings that host between 90 to 1,200 guests. Our meeting rooms are equipped with state of the-art AV technology, high-end facilities, and other personalized services perfect for celebrating luxury occasions, intimate private parties and social gatherings.

A vibrant, maximalist editorial whose setup and interior have been inspired by interior icon Tony Duquette’s Dawnridge House. By creating a whimsical feeling of opulence in every detail, this rich and vivid world of luxury sets a different tone for brides wanting a wedding that will scream eccentric.

PHOTOGRAPHY: TIMELESS PHOTOGRAPHY SETUP: PLUSH EVENTS & DESIGN DRESS: RICCA SPOSA BY LAHA BOUTIQUE MAKEUP: AXELLE MISSLAND HAIR: STANISLAV HOLOSKO JEWELRY: HEIRLOOM BY H FLOWERS AND PLANTS: PIONI BRIDE: JOVANA CRKVENJAŠ

P A K I S T A N I N W E D D I N G S 36

Extravagant, colorful and spectacular are just a few words you use to describe delightful weddings in Pakistan. The weddings in Pakistan are week-long grandeur affairs of intricate outfits, songs, dance, various cuisines, traditional & cultural festivities. These festivities go on several days - bringing family and friends together - consist broadly of events of Mayon, Mehndi, Nikah, Baraat and Valima spread over a number of days.

PHOTOGRAPHY: FARHAT NAWEED PHOTOGRAPHY

A VANITY FAIR By Farhat Naweed

You are in a roll from your routine life to one vibrant fairytale world once you get invited to one of these weddings. The families of the bride and groom have to find the banquet that can fit for upto 1000 guests. Yes, you read it correctly! As this is one opportunity family of the bride or groom find to invite-back all the guests for all events they once have attended themselves. As one might wonder if this sounds like some large scale big-fat Asian wedding, however, these weddings happen fairly regularly in Pakistan. Weddings in Pakistan begin with Mayon and Mehndi, these are the most colorful and happening celebrations linked way back to the culture of Mughal days of the Sub-continent. These events are all about singing songs on ‘dholak’ - the two sided hand drum; dances which everyone was practicing for weeks now; and getting henna tattooed on the bride and girls. Men usually at these events discuss politics, if you know what I mean. The main highlight of the wedding is signing the marriage contract either on the main wedding day or a day before. This event is usually very small and held between close family members of the bride and groom.

Wedding Day or Baraat - a large reception by the bride’s family - is usually held on a separate day in a banquet hall, where the bride wears the most beautifully adorned gown and the groom wears the ‘Sherwani’. Wedding dresses for Pakistani wedding ceremonies are designed in vibrant colors with heavy embellishments. Red is often the color of a bridal gown associated with celebration worldwide, however, as the trends have changed, brides in Pakistan customise their own gowns in different colors and embellishments to match the theme of their wedding. Valima Reception – The next day of the wedding – reception is given by the Groom’s family called – Valima, which you would feel is more similar to a wedding reception in the west: Cake-cutting ceremonies, three piece formal suits and exquisite gowns, feeding each other sweets, exchange of presents and photo sessions (lots of them!). Of course you got all glammed up for nothing. Food, Food and more Food… highlight of all the events in Pakistan is ‘The Food!’ Full stop. Different styles of cuisines for different days with a number of dishes are served in buffet style, sometimes with live kitchen. You are surely to gain a few pounds you have lost in order to look perfect in those party outfits. Oh well, you can always lose some later again but the food in the weddings in Pakistan is not to be missed. Mindful of Time - One thing that you would like to keep in mind if you are attending one of the Pakistani weddings is to be mindful of the time. No, you don’t need to be punctual! On the contrary you have to add two plus hours to the time mentioned on the invitation card. Yet, you will find someone complaining to be arrived on the time stated on the invite and had been waiting since. Never be that person. Good Luck!

TOP 5 TRENDS TO FOLLOW IN FALL 2021 By Leslie Fernandez

The dawn of a new season is coming upon us very soon. With more than two years of being in a pandemic, it’s finally time to get the boots on. The world is gradually moving towards normalcy and therefore, you should brace yourself to look your best this fall.

The vibrancy of this season perhaps encourages everyone to get out of bed, dress well and rejoice in the world. And with so many options available, sometimes, it gets overwhelming to choose the right thing. Hence, here’s a comprehensive guide for you to know everything about the trends that will lead Fall 2021 with a bang!

2. Statement earrings and rings

1. Long coats For sure, long coats are here to stay. With numerous options available to style, you can always go for a coat with formal or informal attire. Put on your coat with some floral dress and make it super trendy. You can also wear a neutral tone coat in formal attire for a meeting or work. Either way, it will look super chic! Lately, people have chosen to stick with neutral colors when it comes to coating, however, this time, you can go for a funky color coat that will give vibrancy, freshness, and a splash of color to your look.

Kitschy rings and Pearl earrings are taking the trend by storm. I am sure you must have seen how celebrities are enhancing their looks by using stylish accessories and bold statement pieces. With statement earrings and rings, you can always look more put-together and stylish. Therefore, this fall, throw some pearl earrings with kitschy rings and rock the world. Bear in mind, with stylish accessories, your attire looks 10 times more stylish. Also, you can always repeat the same outfit with different accessories to give it a new look.

3. Mirmaru hats

4. Boots

Mirmau hats are the new hot cake. Be it super models wearing it with their denim look or some influencers flaunting it over a floral dress, we must say, mirmaru hats are here to stay.

Is it even fall if you are not wearing some long boots?

Get yourself a funky mirmaru hat and style with your outfits. You can always pull this off with a floral dress, boyfriend jeans, and a cute top or with the skirts. Whichever style you choose, remember to stay confident because that’s important to look your best.

Long boots have firmly been in the fashion for many few seasons and even this time, they don’t seem to go outdated. Hence, if you are looking to invest in an autumn style that will stay longer, then get yourself a good set of boots. You can style it with long dress, flared pants or with denim jeans.

5. Bandanas Bandanas make everything super stylish and cute for sure. If you are looking to style your fall outfits with a cute look then bandanas are a must. Get some colorful bandanas and make your boring outfits pop like a star. Remember to try different styles with it. It will look super trendy.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART DIRECTION: SMILE FOR PROFILE STYLING BY: SMILE FOR PROFILE MODEL: BOLUWATIFE FABIYI MAKEUP: SAKSHI TEJPAUL HAIR: STANISLAV HOLOSKO ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER: RID ABDULLAH

PHOTOGRAPHY: GALYA SMITH SPECIAL THANKS: ALWADI DOHA – MGALLERY HOTEL COLLECTION

Smile It Is Your WEDDING DAY!

By Dr. Nour Zoarob

hen there is a wedding on the horizon, many brides and grooms want to do more than just their regular routine to maintain those pearly whites. If you are seriously considering cosmetic dental work, like professional teeth whitening or orthodontic aligners, it is important to get a sense of the ins and outs of each procedure and the timeframes they require. My advice for each

Moreover, to summarize what the bride or groom needs before their

patient is “don’t wait.”

wedding to have those white teeth and a bright smile are three procedures: 2. Veneers or Bonding

1. Professional whitening Whitening tends to be the most requested service, and depending on which type of whitening the patient would like, they need to start anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding. Whether the bride or groom will choose a series of inoffice treatments followed by athome whitening trays. It is important to start many weeks in advance of the wedding for a few reasons, including: “on teeth can be sensitive for a few weeks after the whitening.

Patients often, ask about how to enhance the esthetic appearance of their teeth before their wedding, but many leave this step to the last minute and do not have enough time to achieve the results they want. We also need to make sure that the patient’s teeth and gums are healthy prior to starting any restorative procedure, which may require a few visits. You want to make sure that you have plenty of time to get used to how the veneers or bonding looks and feels, as well as have a buffer for any work that may need to be re-done.

3. Orthodontic Aligners If you are looking for straight teeth ahead of your wedding, plan to start 8 to 12 months before the wedding. This procedure requires the most time. If you require mild to moderate straightening, you may just need four or six months with aligners, but the only way to know for sure is to have your dentist assess the health of both your teeth and gums. 43

D E N TA L

F A M I LY

C E N T E R

M E D I C A L T H E

P O LYC L I N I C S N E W

JEWE LL ERY: I MA N H AZIM EH J E W E L L E RY

W E LC O M E S

A N D

A M B AS SA D O R

M S . SAR AH B OU RAOU I.

G U L F

Understanding the growing influence of digital marketing in the realm of advertising, Gulf Dental Center and Family Medical Polyclinics have taken a step ahead to connect with our clients more sophisticatedly. We have hired Miss Sarah Bouraoui as our brand ambassador and representative for all medical branches. She will be addressing clients through various platforms ensuring, sleek interactions.

We celebrated this milestone by organizing a grand breakfast at Al Wadi DohaMGallery Hotel, in the presence of Mohamed Robin El Alami, General Manager, and Dr. Mahmoud Abu Zainah, Medical Director.

The event was rejoiced by the top doctors who had a good time there discussing Sarah’s dental needs and some healthy discussions with the marketing and reception staff. This beautiful week weaved a bond between Ms. Sarah and the team. Several topics related to the centers and doctors were discussed with Ms. Sarah, and her tasks were identified in the field of advertising and digital marketing, including the general organization of forums, events, and media coverage. Ms. Sarah Bouraoui is indeed going to add value to our organization. We, the team of Gulf Dental Center and Family Medical Polyclinics, our general manager Mr. Mohamed Robin El Alami, and the medical director of the group, Dr. Mahmoud Abu Zainah wholeheartedly welcome her to be on-board.

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHOTO PHACTORY BY PRADEEP SPECIAL THANKS: ALWADI DOHA – MGALLERY HOTEL COLLECTION

ROMANT IC S TAYCATION AT T HE BANYAN TR E E DOH A T HE BE S T R E TR E AT FOR COUPL E S

Romance in life is like a refreshing breeze. It’s a crucial element to maintain happy relationships. The love of your life needs romantic getaways to keep the flame in with fun, excitement, and happiness. In the tough life routine, we all need to keep your passion growing with romantic retreats.

R E V I E W

Having a hectic routine post-covid, I wanted a romantic escape with my wife to relax and have an ‘Us time’. We want to explore something innovative yet most romantic so that I and my wife can reap the best out of this day. Something that redefines luxury, innovation, and grandeur. While we look out for that dream staycation, our search leads to just one answer –The Banyan Tree Doha. If there’s anything lavish and deluxe we wanted to spend our best day in, it could be all alone in the Banyan Tree Doha. This place definitely

has the reputation and respect that I couldn’t help but plan for a staycation there. The best thing is, we didn’t need any planning or formalities for our romantic staycation. The Banyan Tree Doha’s management took all of that hustle from our plate and provided a complete day-night retreat plan for our romantic staycation. Celebrating yet another milestone of our marriage at the most luxurious romantic staycation is one dream that eventually becomes a reality.

Creating Unforgettable Memories on a Romantic Staycation at the Banyan Tree Doha

A Brief Itinerary of our One Night Staycation at Banyan Tree Doha Nestled in the heart of Musharieb, within the beautiful Doha Oasis Project, Banyan Tree is a pictureperfect place for a romantic escape. Whether you’re looking for an intimate and relaxed in room stay or need a pampers spa treatment or a foodie celebration, Banyan Tree Doha has it for you.

About the Romantic Retreat Package We were offered a ‘Romantic Retreat Package’ by Banyan Tree Doha. You can get insights into all the packages offered on the Banyan tree Doha website. It offers you special romantic setup in the room and bathroom, breakfast in suite or

in Il Galante in addition to your choice of romantic dinner in one of their amazing outlets (Il Galante or Saffron). To complete your experience, you can enjoy special discount on spa treatments.

The Afternoon Tea at Altitude Club Lounge Checking in the Serenity Club Suite I was offered a Banyan Tree Serenity Club Suite that comes with the Romantic Retreat package. We checked into the club lounge. The experience of checking in was very swift, a very VIP style with great service from the beginning. We were greeted with a welcome drink as well as lovely roses that smelled great, how pleasantly beautiful! The hotel staff escorted us to our room. It was a spacious room, beautifully furnished and decorated with large windows to enjoy the impeccable oasis views. All the branded amenities of Banyan Tree were in place that includes bathrobes, toiletries, slippers, etc. They made a beautiful romantic bed décor to honor our celebrations. The bathroom has a modern-design that made us more delighted. Adorned with a stunning bathtub and lots of signature toiletries to help ourselves. The whole view of this gorgeous Serenity Club Suite was super photogenic.

The living room was mounted with a massive sofa and comfortable décor. It also featured a writing desk, perfect to create memoirs of the stay. Here I must admire the outstanding customer service that was always prompt in responding to us.

We had our afternoon tea at the Altitude Club Lounge. Sipping in the aromatic tea balanced with soothing flavors and the beautifully styled lounge décor was soothing our eyes and senses. We were given some extra time to enjoy our afternoon tea and food. The Altitude club lounge has some truly impressive offers. You get mesmerized by the quality of hospitality and food they offer.

The Banyan Tree Spa Experience –a High-end retreat What could be better than to get relaxed with your spouse in a luxury spa! We then head to the 60-minute massage at Banyan Tree Spa. Here, we were offered a cold towel to refresh ourselves and ponder over the spa menu. We found the 60-minute massage package really attractive, so we opted for it.

The massage therapist escorted us to a room where I was quite surprised to observe that they have separate rooms assigned for many treatments. We were seated and offered tea while our feet are washed and lightly massaged. At this point, your nerves start to relax already.

We then changed and got into the robes while the therapist got the room ready. Our room was now pleasantly dark and gave an extremely comfortable vibe. The beds were comfortable. However, what made the experience extremely relaxing was the skilled hands of the massage therapist. She used long strokes and medium pressure with techniques that made us completely calm and relaxed in every bit. 60 minutes later, I was awakened to be told that my treatment is over. 60 minutes passed too soon for this. After changing up, we were then led to the relaxation area where iced tea with chilled tropical fruit was waiting for us.

Romantic Dinner at IL Galante Restaurant Having a lavish candlelight dinner on your date night is something you should never miss. We did the same. As I mentioned, the property has some outstanding restaurants and food and beverage outlets. We went to IL Galante, an authentic Italian dining experience that is exactly what we were looking for on our date night. The romantic dinner offered by IL Galante truly made our day. There was a special romantic setup exclusive for us. Our table was beautifully decorated with flower petals and mesmerizing aroma twirling around as we seated. The food that came on our table had a special touch to celebrate our presence. Overall, it was definitely an outstanding dining experience. The stylish fusion of modern and classic interiors, a refined setting in a simple manner, and quality ingredients used for creating the scrumptious dishes just made us come back again for more. That night stay at Banyan Tree Doha created the best memories for us! The next day we were offered breakfast in our suite. This whole experience of 24 hours was exceptional. We actually didn’t leave the property for our entire stay due to continuous pleasure and comfort offered during our Romantic Retreat staycation.

SAY YES IN STYLE W I T H

A LWA D I

The Alwadi Hotel MGallery is the pictureperfect venue for your dream wedding

Imbued with romance and elegance, Alwadi Hotel MGallery is the perfect location for the wedding of your dreams. Located in the stylish cultural hub of Doha and just steps from the historic Souq Waqif, Alwadi Hotel MGallery seamlessly blends the traditional and the modern to create a bespoke, unforgettable event for your special day.

M G A L L E R Y

The stunning Al Waha Ballroom is a truly sublime venue for Qatar’s weddings and other special occasions, which is flooded with natural light. Whether you want a grand affair or an intimate gathering, the ballroom can also be divided into two elegant venues, with modern design and tastefully decorated to evoke Qatari heritage.

Alwadi Hotel MGallery General Manager Mr. Hani Akkari said the hotel has a professional and dedicated in-house team to create the perfect wedding – from concept to execution.

From casual stand-up gatherings to familystyle feasts, three food and beverage packages are available, specially created by the Alwadi Hotel MGallery’s acclaimed culinary team. Located just steps from two of the most vibrant parts of Doha, the hotel’s elegantly decorated and luxurious 213 suites and rooms are also the perfect places for the bridal party and guests to stay before and after the big event.

“Working hand-in-hand with trusted industry professionals, we can create everything from small private gatherings through to lavish celebrations, from the flowers through to the smallest of details – all with our guests and their wishes at the heart of it all.

“We know that a dream wedding starts with an amazing location. Our teamwork is above and beyond to ensure every detail is handled – from the venue thorough to the catering,” Mr. Akkari said. “They will be by your side both before and during your special day and assist in creating an occasion that celebrates you and your loved ones.

“And of course, combined with the renowned Alwadi Hotel MGallery bespoke, personalized service and our attention to detail – from the moment you enter our hotel, we go above and beyond to ensure each and every guest – from the bride through to family and friends - has an experience filled with cherished moments.”

Q1. Before we begin, I would like to thank you for your time. Please, tell us something about your early life and what interested to pursue culinary as your career? I was Born in Putignano, Puglia. My passion for food started during from my childhood when I watched my mother prepare simple food, full of love. At the age of 14, I started my training in a catering school in Castellana Grotte, to learn the techniques and basics of the local dishes, while working in local restaurants and pizzerias in Puglia in the Summer. I left Italy for Germany at the age of 20 and later to England to explore other cultures and cuisines. My career started at the Stafford Hotel then moving on to open the Regent Four Seasons Hotel. I also worked with Chef Paolo Simeoni to open the restaurant ‘The Dining Room’ which gained national recognition for its creative Italian cooking style. Three years later, I reopened Toto’s Restaurant, a celebrated fine dining restaurant in Knightsbridge. In May 1996, my career took me to Asia, where I learnt a lot on spices, aromas, and oriental cooking techniques in Malaysia. In 1997, I was brought back to Italy by the famous Italian chef Anthony Genovese to open a hotel on the charming Amalfi Coast, this is when I fell in love with the Mediterranean aromas and the natural produce that today became part of my style of cooking. During the winter of 1998, I went to Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saison, Oxford, entering into the world of Raymond Blanc, as Sous Chef. In January 2001, I returned to Italy to take the role of Executive Chef of Rossellinis, Palazzo Sasso. This was a major turning point in my career as I was then recognized as “One of the Best Chefs in the World” by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences and Rossellinis being awarded One Star Michelin. In 2004, Rossellinis was awarded the Second Michelin Star. 52

In April 2013, I was appointed as Head Chef at restaurant Tosca, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. I have joined the unrivaled dining destination, Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha direct from The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, where I was Director of Tosca restaurant, as I lead it into the Michelin star realm. I’m also a cookbook author having collaborated with some of the world’s most celebrated hotels and restaurants across Europe and Asia. Throughout my career, I have been praised for my devotion to natural produce.

By Leslie Fernandez

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THREE

TIMES

WINNER

CHEF

MICHELIN PINO

STAR

LAVARRA

Q4. You were in the Hell’s Kitchen with with Carlo Cracco, one of the most famous Italian chefs. Please, share your experience. Any culinary tips / tricks that you learned from this experience? This experience was extremely funny, and the strong friendship I shared with Carlo made it even more special. My task was to bring to the competition a produce from the future. I brought the plankton. It was very interesting to see how junior chefs handled such a complex ingredient!

Q2. Since you are not from Qatar, how challenging it was for you to adapt to a new culture? Was it tough to acclimate or everything was easy? Qatar is a multi-cultural society with people, languages, and cuisines from across the globe. For this reason, it has been very easy for me to adapt to this new environment when I moved. Qatar is a country of warmth and hospitality.

I am sure the expectations with your culinary prowess must be high. How do you manage to perform well each time and what tips you want to share with aspiring chefs?

Doha was chosen in 2010 to be the Arab Capital of Culture, and ever since the state has organized a myriad of initiatives including the Years of Culture, pairing with a different country in each edition.

I strongly believe that talent gives you the ability to manage both emotions and creativity. On the other hand, the talent must be constantly trained and challenged, and the creativity renewed.

Despite its openness to cultural diversity, Qatar remains keen to preserve and promote its national identity in various events.

Q6. Deli Kitchen, Veritas, and Chef in the Villa

This is where the unique melting pot comes beautifully together in this part of the world. Qatar’s National Vision 2030 also reiterates cultural diversity as part of the roadmap for sustainable development.

Q3. Celebrity chefs like you indeed have a lot of external pressure. Please tell us, how do you deal with it and does that ever impact your culinary? After many years, dealing with pressure became part of my daily tasks. I am now used to such scenarios. I make sure that after such intense moments I disconnect from work, reconnect with my family and refocus.

Q5. Being the winner of Michelin Star three times,

are three of your special projects at Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. Please, enlighten us with the journey of these three dining offerings. I have brought my extensive expertise to Al Messila’s innovative culinary portfolio. My hands-on focus is evident in the casual Deli Kitchen designed to be the preferred destination for discerning guests who want to dine and treasure countless moments of discovery and exploration under the same roof. Deli Kitchen marks my first foray into the Middle East and features matchless sustainability, responsibility and sharing that converge in a new approach to agricultural and healthy product dining, shopping and learning.

Q7. As you know, the More Cravings by Marriott Bonvoy™ Doha Food Fest is in full swing this month. How excited are you to cater to guests again after such a long period due to COVID-19? I am excited to witness the recovery of the industry, and to participate in such a dynamic event featuring a selection of world-class chefs. The Doha Food Fest will be the perfect platform for food lovers of all ages to sample a variety of restaurants and cuisines at affordable prices. Throughout October, Doha will witness a host of exciting culinary experiences across an array of Qatar’s top end hotels, and a selection of world-class restaurants. Guests will experience specially curated menus, exclusive dining and tasting experiences, and cooking classes amongst others.

Q8.

Please share details about the

special culinary cooking experience that you have planned for the Doha Food Fest in the Food Lab, the special Italian menu that you have created for Veritas, and set menu for Deli Kitchen during the Fest. I will be hosting an exclusive cooking class on 13 October followed by a five-course dinner in the Food Lab. Attendees will get the opportunity to get behind the stoves and learn all the tricks from me during the unique cooking class. Participants will cook first, and then enjoy their creations during a 5-course dinner. The session is reserved for 8 people only. Moreover, guests can enjoy a truly Italian menu at our celebrated restaurant, Veritas. An authentic Michelin-starred experience, boasting a selection of refined classic Italian dishes, presented in a very modern and elegant way. The sophisticated interiors and décor will create the perfect surroundings for an exquisite evening. Deli Kitchen will offer a selection of its best sellers, an interesting melting pot of flavors, from East to West, passing by the Middle East.

Q9. What do you feel is the future of culinary in Doha? Is Doha on its way to become the hub of culture, food and art in the upcoming years? The Doha Food Fest places Doha’s strong gastronomic offering under the spotlight. Qatar is well positioned today to become a culinary hub in the region, with Marriott International’s extensive food and beverage offerings having opened more than 65 restaurants already in Doha. Combining modernity and tradition, Doha offers a rich and diverse culinary scene with a myriad of choices, including Michelin-starred restaurants and popular street food, catering to all needs and tastes. The Doha Food Fest is the ideal platform to showcase Doha’s fusion of Arabic and multicultural cuisine, and introduce the masterminds behind the country’s leading venues.

Q10. Lastly, please, share with us one secret tip that goes into every recipe that you create and makes it exceptionally delicious? Being a chef, I am always enthralled by new dishes and tastes. However, the secret ingredient is always the passion. Dose with care!

NEW YORK STEA KHOUSE: KHOUSE :

A LEGACY OF ROYALTY

By Elias Haddad

am sure there are days when the desire to enjoy a juicy steak meal seems to be all that your tastebuds strive for, and I certainly have had a few of them days myself. So, with my mind tinkering on finding a good steakhouse, it was inevitable that we came across Marriott Marquis City Center Doha’s New York Steakhouse – located right in the heart of the city. To us, New York Steakhouse in Marriott Marquis City Center Doha hotel epitomizes what a steakhouse should be. It feels sophisticated. The atmosphere is formal, yet cozy, the lighting dim and ambient, and with lots of dark wood it certainly adds up to it being the perfect backdrop for a great dining experience. With my urge to find a hearty steak, promising of high-grade quality meat, the New York Steakhouse certainly delivered on that promise.

Just

when we were in awe of the rustic ambience, taking in the design of the restaurant with many of its seating being booths to allow a larger party to talk

comfortably, we sat down and eager to survey all the offerings, we hopped straight on to the menu.

Delving right into the main attraction of the Tomahawk Steak, the first thing to hit us was the scent of the sissling smoked butter that comes off the beautiful prime meat. The steak itself is one of the most visually impressive steaks money can buy, featuring a thick tender chunk of ribeye at one end and the rib bone handle at the other; quite simply the joy of the Tomahawk Steak was all in the presentation. Such an impressive steak and exquisitely tender, this flavorful cut of meat was certainly made for dropping jaws and licking lips! The New York Steakhouse name itself denotes that it is a big deal for steaks but to my surprise, their burger option was equally as satisfying. The NYSH Burger, made with wagyu beef is just the right mix of fatty, succulent and melt-in-the-mouth marbled meat that rests under flavorsome relish, and when taking the first bite, I got a tasty burst of juices that I always hoped for with a good thick burger. We paired The NYSH Burger with truffle fries, which overall made for an exceptionally satisfying dish.

After skimming through everything, we landed on ordering the following dishes:

1. Tomahawk Steak 1.5KG Australian Wagyu Tomahawk, house-smoked butter

2. The NYSH Burger Raclette cheese, foie gras, pickled onion, wagyu beef

3. Herb Crusted Colorado Lamb Rackr Rosemary/thyme and parsley crust, herb jus

Lastly, we had the Herb Crusted Colorado Lamb Rack that was made with an array of rich spices that induced an aroma full of flavor, aiding to the tenderness of this tasty cut of meat. The lamb was impressive indeed and an exceptional choice, perfectly cooked it certainly demanded our attention. Our experience with New York Steakhouse was beyond amazing. The service genuine and friendly, the restaurant neat and impeccable and our heads still spinning from the crescendo of flavor that reached its peak with the steaks and lamb. To top it off we got the chance to meet the chef to personally thank him for the fine-dining experience. James Warnica, Chef de Cuisine at New York Steakhouse who leads an experienced culinary team, with over 16 years of experience in various kitchens and a fierce passion for food and hospitality, Chef Warnica is constantly reimagining classics with his unique unparalleled style. All that is left to say is, after such a long lockdown in Qatar, if you are after a hearty steakhouse dining experience – whether it be for a business lunch or a date night, with the choicest meats, New York Steakhouse, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha is by far an easy recommendation to satisfy your cravings.

Trust me, you will thank us later. For Reservations, call 4419 5510

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHOTO PHACTORY BY PRADEEP 59

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHOTO PHACTORY BY PRADEEP

JOE BARZA A MASTER OF MODERN LEBANESE CUISINE By Elias Haddad

1. You have a vast 22 years of cooking and kitchen management experience, if people can only manage to adopt a few new practices from your experience, what do you consider to be the three most important and effective ones for healthy cooking? My three fundamentals for healthy cooking are to first approach the task with a particular level of discipline; second, to continuously enhance cooking techniques and become familiar with ingredients, and lastly, to treat the ingredients with respect, ensuring that when combined, they truly complement each other.

2. You are a Master of Modern Lebanese cooking; how do you describe your style of cooking? Besides upholding the fundamentals of any chef’s responsibilities (offering a tasty, nutritious and attractive meal that meets or exceeds the guest’s needs), my style is to create a cuisine that has soul, a character of its own. To do this, I use colors. Ingredients are full of colors, and these can be explored in countless ways. While I absolutely value, cherish and respect authentic Lebanese cuisine, I find it important to incorporate my own twist to each dish, truly making it my own.

3. Being a pioneer of Lebanese fusion cuisine, we’d like to know what exactly this term means? Being its pioneer, Lebanese fusion cuisine means taking traditional dishes and incorporating a modern twist to them. Take for instance the famous “burghul banadoura”. Both ingredients – the burgul and tomatoes – when put together, create a popular traditional Lebanese dish. What I do instead, is use these ingredients in different ways that would still ignite nostalgia yet go beyond the traditional.

4. You have participated in so many international events, can you share some tips you have for young, aspirational cooks? What are the dos and don’ts of such events? In my opinion, the most valuable advice is to put one’s ego aside. Chefs should be prepared to improve their skills, whatever their experience, and should engage in knowledge-sharing. International cooking events present tremendous opportunities to learn from chefs of all walks of life and all corners of the world, and, in turn, grow in the culinary world.

7. Tell us about some recipes in

5. Looking to the future, how will people eat? Will we continue down the

some other new element.

road of eating less synthetic and processed food and fresher more whole foods? I take pride in saying that we are in what I can only describe as an eating revolution. Highly processed and synthetic foods have had their day, and people are appreciating more and more fresh, wholesome and healthy foods. This reflects the global awareness trend around healthy eating. I very much welcome this trend as I strongly believe it will help people live better and combat diseases such as diabetes.

6. Are there any ingredients that have fallen out of fashion for you? I am not a fan of fat-rich dairy products such as ghee, cream and butter. I avoid using them in my cuisine. I much prefer the lighter and healthier touch delivered by olive oil in particular.

that really excite you, because of the flavor combinations or

I created a fabulous new recipe when I marinated tuna with shawarma spices that I then laid on a bed of artichoke salad – believe me, it’s delicious! This recipe won an award at a key industry event in Sardinia. I also like mixing traditional Lebanese moughrabiya stew together with salad – which may sound odd but is simply an amazing main course and the perfect comfort food! It also makes for a full, well-balanced meal that the whole family can enjoy

8. Which ingredients or dishes best define Lebanese cuisine? In my opinion, Lebanese cuisine is defined by key essentials: Zaatar, hummus, raw kibbe, tabbouleh, fattoush, labneh and our plethora of grains, beans and legumes.

12. What did you add to the menu of the Levantine restaurant located in Hilton The Pearl, and what makes it

9. Lebanese food is extremely healthy, instead of butter or cream people use olive oil in food, fresh food ingredients are used while

different from others?

One of the reasons why Lebanese cuisine is healthy is mainly due to the fact that a lot of dishes are dependent on seasonal ingredients and, of course, olive oil being preferred over butter. Lebanese cuisine also features many vegetarian favorites, all of which are healthy. Besides, the quality and taste of vegetables and fruits in Lebanon are quite unique and universally distinctive – evidently, more flavorful than anywhere else, even in its geographical region.

Levantine is a unique concept that was created by a collaboration between myself and Hilton The Pearl’s Executive Chef Thibaut Pouplard. We combined our knowledge and techniques to retain authentic Lebanese flavors, while creating new presentation styles. Therefore, everything is unique from the taste of the dish to its presentation and the entire atmosphere that surrounds the restaurant.

10. With international ingredients now so easily available, how do

13. How would you describe Levantine’s

you see the Qatari hospitality market growing?

menu?

Ingredients are now widely available worldwide. Having said that, I believe the Qatari market is developing its own local produce at a steady pace and I am sure that these will eventually be incorporated into the local cuisine. I see enormous potential for the Qatari market, especially in light of major global events that will be hosted in the country. People around the world will become more familiar with Qatar and what it has to offer; I am sure many will want to come and visit. Once they land, they will witness first-hand Qatar’s world-class hospitality.

Levantine’s menu is a modern take on traditional Lebanese dishes with creative twists. It is a menu for those who appreciate healthy cuisine and are curious to awaken their taste buds. The menu caters to everyone, from carnivores to pescetarians, vegetarians, vegans and even lacto-/ovo-/vegetarians.

cooking any dish. What do you have to say about it?

11. We know you’ve done quite a bit of traveling. Is there a country that stands out for unique or bold flavors and or just the whole culture of sitting down and eating? I am in no position to rank culinary experiences; for each culture has plenty to offer! In the culinary world, we respect every country’s ingredients, people and gastronomic traditions. We strive to learn from one another. For me, it’s always a pleasant adventure to discover new ingredients, understand their health benefits and explore new flavors. In fact, the most enjoyable part in this adventure is to incorporate these into my own dishes and create new taste thrills. 63

MAGICAL HONEYMOONS AT M I L A I D H O O I S L A N D M A L D I V E S

Milaidhoo Island Maldives is a tropical island like no other. The boutique luxury barefoot resort has an airy lightness about it and offers a real sense of freedom, tranquility, and absolute privacy in the dreamiest of settings. With romantic and laid-back vibes, and personal butlers to fulfill all of your wishes and craft the most idyllic bespoke stay, Milaidhoo is an unrivalled destination for the most magical of honeymoons.

ne of the most popular resorts in the Maldives for couples, Milaidhoo has introduced a host of complimentary honeymoon experiences for brides and grooms looking for their perfect getaway to celebrate their love. Until the end of the year, any couples that wed in 2020 or 2021 will be treated to an array of magical moments, sure to make their romantic escape one to be remembered for a lifetime. The Maldives is known as one of the best places in the world to admire the night sky, so what could be more romantic for a couple than gazing up at their very own star? The resort team will arrange for the couple to name their own star, copyrighted with its co-ordinates and identifiable from anywhere.

One evening, the deck of honeymooners’ private pool villa will be transformed for a private candlelit dinner, complete with a special three-course menu tailored to fit the couples’ gastronomic desires, and topped off with a flower petal bath to relax in with scented oils and a bottle of bubbly. To round it up, the couple will be treated to a 60-minute spa treatment for two in the stunning Serenity Spa. There, the newly-weds can unwind in thatched-rooved, over-water treatment rooms soothed by the sound of the waves and the gentle Maldivian breeze. Couples will be spoilt for choice all of the other incredible experiences offered at Milaidhoo as well, whether it be a dinner on their very own private sandbank in the middle of the ocean – or even sleeping under the stars there, private sunset cruises with bubbly and views that go for miles, a cinema under the stars, and so much more. Milaidhoo is a small island, covered in 13 acres of tropical foliage and set in a crystal clear lagoon in Baa Atoll’s beautiful UNESCO-protected marine Biosphere Reserve. It is the ultimate romantic Maldivian escape for couples. All villas are only a short, barefoot stroll away from incredible diving, water sports, fitness, yoga and amazing spa facilities. There are three restaurants, one of which, Ba’theli, is the only gourmet Maldivian restaurant in the country.

FERRARI PORTOFINO M: A VOYAGE OF REDISCOVERY LATEST EVOLUTION OF PRANCING HORSE 2+ GT SPIDER UNVEILED Test Drive By: Rawad Haddad

he Portofino M is the first Ferrari to be presented in the wake of the company’s temporary closure due to the Covid-19 crisis, making it the symbol of a voyage of rediscovery. It is the (re)starting point for Prancing Horse’s pursuit of innovation whilst fully respecting its heritage, passion and constant search for perfection. All of these values are reflected in the new Portofino M. In fact, the ‘M’ in its moniker stands for ‘Modificata’, which in Ferrari nomenclature refers to cars that have undergone an evolution that has significantly boosted their performance.

There is no shortage of technical innovation in the stunning new evolution of the Ferrari Portofino, the most notable being its redesigned powertrain, a brand-new eightspeed gearbox and the five-position Manettino that includes a Race mode, an absolute first for a Maranello GT spider. As a consequence of these and many other new features, the Portofino M guarantees an unprecedented combination of authentic GT performance, driving pleasure, agility and exceptional versatility in everyday driving contexts.

This latest design and engineering masterpiece from the Prancing Horse is the perfect evolution of the Ferrari Portofino. Sportier in character than its predecessor, it also delivers superior handling whilst not only maintaining but enhancing on-board comfort, courtesy of specific new optional features, such as ADAS, and ventilated and heated seats. The Ferrari Portofino M thus retains the Ferrari Portofino’s twin soul and is the only car on the market that can rightfully be described as an authentic coupé with its top closed and a genuine spider when it is open. This is thanks, of course, to the Retractable Hard Top (RHT), the signature feature of all the Prancing Horse’s convertibles.

DESIGN The Portofino M’s compact dimensions also make it ideal for all occasions. In fact, its unparalleled versatility and on-board comfort turn every trip into a voyage of (re)discovery.

The new Ferrari Portofino M’s harmonious styling is the product of a global approach to design in which all the various elements are treated as part of a single whole and builds on the success of the Portofino design. This applies both to the bodywork, where the front, flanks and tail are part of a single seamlessly sculptural design, as it does to the cabin where the general arrangement of the volumes and lines is stylistically consistent. This approach can be seen in the interaction between the car’s exterior and interior.

EXTERIOR The fact that the Portofino M’s performance is more powerful than the Portofino resulted in the Ferrari Styling Centre’s designers making very precise, targeted adjustments to highlight the model’s characteristics and underscore its sportiness. The wraparound front bumpers incorporate imposing, sculptural air intakes that lend a decisive, aggressive look to the front of the car. They also feature a new air vent at wheelarch height, added because of the need to reduce the car’s overall drag. Part of the air flow coming off the front radiating masses is directed towards the new vents and then accelerated up as it exits, boosting its extraction power. The resulting improvement in aerodynamic performance is underscored by a slash on the front bumper that flows into the design of the flanks, adding visual harmony to the side view of the car. Thus, the signature Portofino side scallop finds its visual counterpart on the Ferrari Portofino M’s front bumper, which has been sculpted to accentuate the car’s dynamic profile.

The grille features new aluminium slats with contrasting faceted tips that highlight this noble material.

At the rear, the new exhaust system has allowed the removal of the silencer assembly, making the Ferrari Portofino M’s tail more compact. The result is that the rear bumpers are now more streamlined and sculptural. Visually, their forms are lighter too and their styling more in harmony with the front bumpers, creating a much more coherent overall aesthetic. The rear diffuser has been completely redesigned and is now separate to the bumpers. This allows clients to be able to specify it in carbon-fibre, which further underscores the car’s sporty character. Specific diamond-finish wheel rims were designed for the Ferrari Portofino M. Their styling references that of the car’s flanks, a perfect marriage of elegance and sportiness. The unusually sculptural design of the spokes and their chiaroscuro look visually lightens the rim.

INTERIOR With the top down the Portofino M reveals its stylish GT soul and occupants will appreciate how compact and organic the whole car feels. There is exceptional design coherency in the development of the cabin, in fact. The Styling Centre team began by pinpointing certain specific prerequisites essential to the success of the design, the foremost of these being formal and functional coherency between the car’s exterior and its interior, weight reduction and more occupant space. The crafting of the interior began with a multi-level dashboard structure comprising an upper half and then an intermediate gap designed to lighten the perceived mass of the lower half. Obtained by subtracting rather than adding volumes, this breaking up of the dash into different levels allowed the designers to organise the technical elements and in-car devices to very rational effect while simultaneously defining its signature full-width architecture. A central horizontal aluminium blade divides the instrument panel, air conditioning vents and passenger display into separate areas in the upper section. The other control functions are located in the scooped section below, with a 10.25” touchscreen at the centre. This type of layout hints at flawless ergonomics and highlights the construction quality of every single detail through its seamless marriage of ultra-high-tech elements and materials with handcrafted assemblies and trims. Seen in plan view, the cockpit’s symmetrical arrangement and the ample rear seat space are clear. From a construction perspective, the interior - and the dashboard architecture in particular - feature two shells incorporating all of the technical components and a bridge that visually connects the instrument panel area with the central tunnel. This layout is designed to involve the passenger and is underscored in the styling of the door panels, handles and various controls and devices available, including the central and passenger touchscreens. The seats are the product of a special research project and have an innovative magnesium structure. Different density padding and an ultra-compact seatback profile have freed up space for rear occupants too. Also available is three-level ventilation for the seat and backrest, and the very popular neck warmer for use in winter months. The latter offers a choice of three heat levels and the system constantly adapts the speed of the warm air flow from the headrest to ensure it is proportional to the car’s speed, outside temperature and the position of the retractable top. 69

M C L A R E N

A U T O M O T I V E

CONFIRMS THE APPOINTMENT OF EXCLUSIVE MOTORS AS NEW RETAIL PARTNER IN QATAR

McLaren presence in the Middle East and Africa strengthened with the appointment of all-new McLaren Doha

Latest retail location represented by Exclusive Motors, a sister company to Al Emadi Enterprises, known as a national pioneer in residential and commercial luxury real estate

New state-of-the-art showroom facilities based at the iconic Al Hazm Mall scheduled for opening in Q4 2021

Contemporary service facilities under construction and confirmed to operate from Barwa Commercial Avenue

cLaren Automotive, the British creator of luxury, highperformance supercars, has announced the appointment of Exclusive Motors as the brand’s new retail partner in Doha, Qatar. The new McLaren Doha will operate from state-of-the-art showroom facilities conveniently located at Al Hazm Mall, known as one of the most discerning and luxurious shopping destinations in the region. The boutique showroom is due to open doors for business in Q4 2021 and will offer a complete portfolio of McLaren supercars including Ultimate Series, as well as full range of branded merchandise and accessories. The new facility will be fully compliant with the brand’s latest visual identity standards and use its proprietary technologies, such as the MARC (McLaren Automotive Real-Time Configurator), to offer the most immersive and opulent retail experience. Complementing the new showroom, will be a contemporary service facility situated in Commercial Avenue and featuring over 750 sqm of floor space across the ground floor and mezzanine. The centre will be conveniently located and managed by an expert team of McLaren-trained engineers focused on providing the highest standards of professional service to both new and existing customers based in Qatar.

“I am delighted to confirm Exclusive Motors as our new retail partner in Qatar and look forward to working together to further develop our brand in this key market. McLaren is synonymous with both breathtaking products, as well as unparalleled ownership experience, and I am confident that this exciting partnership will allow us to nurture the strong community of owners in Qatar and ensure that our brand continues to exceed expectations at every touch-point.”

Mohamed Fawzi, Market Director, Middle East & Africa, McLaren Automotive

“We are truly honoured to have been appointed as the official retail partner of McLaren Automotive in Qatar and look forward to welcoming first customers at our new, world-class facilities by the end of the year.”

Jassim M. Alemadi, Vice Chairman, Al Emadi Enterprises The new McLaren Doha retailer brings the total number of retail locations in the Middle East and Africa to eight. Globally, McLaren Automotive operates across 40 markets and plans to open its 100th retail location in China later this year, in line with its ambitious Horizon2030 business plan The continued retail expansion corresponds with the launch of the McLaren Artura; the brand’s first High-Performance Hybrid supercar. All-new from the ground-up, the McLaren Artura sits on a new vehicle architecture and marks the start of the new era of performance for the iconic British brand.

2021 LEXUS GX 460 OFFERS FULL LUXURY WITH FULL OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY From the urban asphalt jungle to the last mile of the Rubicon Trail, the 2021 Lexus GX 460 can navigate rough roads while keeping passengers pampered in luxury amenities. The GX 460 is one of the very few full-capability luxury SUVs available today and it performs with Lexus

quality and reliability.

ith a robust body-on-frame construction, standard V8 power, a durable full-time 4WD system and a veritable arsenal of advanced dynamic control technologies, the Lexus GX 460 can boldly go where active families don’t fear to tread. It does so while offering generous towing capacity, room for up to seven, and coddling passengers with ride smoothness and true luxury that define the brand.

One Vehicle, for All Weeks and Weekends With the popularity of crossover-type luxury-utility vehicles – a segment that Lexus created with the original RX model in 1998 – the choices in full-capability traditional-type SUVs are limited. So it pays to be the best of a small group. The Lexus GX 460 easily performs family commuter duties during the week and can comfortably switch to more demanding 4x4 needs on the weekend. A 292-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 provides 438 Nm. of peak torque, helping make the GX 460 an excellent vehicle for towing, with a 2500KG. trailer capacity. A key to the GX 460’s dual personalities is its standard Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which helps to significantly reduce body lean without resorting to stiffer springs and dampers.

Full 4-Wheel Drive Capability The Lexus GX 460’s on-road smoothness and quiet ride belie its considerable trail-driving capability. It starts with true, full-time 4-wheel drive, which uses an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing limited slip center differential. The TORSEN differential distributes power 40:60 under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on wheel slip. The system offers a low range for off-road driving. The GX 460 brings its considerable 4WD capability to on-road driving, as well. As you drive through a curve, for example, the system can change the torque 72

split to 30:70 to enhance vehicle tracking. If wheels spin, the center differential can change the ratio to 50:50 to help control the slippage. The system can respond to sudden changes in road-surface conditions, such as driving through a puddle or over an ice patch. The off-road capability starts with a low range, and it is supported by a wide array of chassis control technology. With Downhill Assist Control (DAC) Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and available Crawl Control, the GX 460 has the capability to traverse unpaved, uneven trails and steep inclines. In some off-road conditions, the driver might have a hard time knowing which direction the front wheels are pointing, so the GX 460 comes with a standard steering angle indicator in the gauge panel.

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Shining accomplishment marks Toyota Yaris WRC’s 25th WRC victory since its debut in 2017

TOYOTA CELEBRATES SIXTH WIN IN WRC SEASON AT RALLY FINLAND

he GAZOO Racing (GR) World Rally Team (WRT) recently achieved Toyota’s sixth win during the 2021 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) at Rally Finland, thanks to an outstanding performance from Elfyn Evans and his co-driver Scott Martin in the No. 33 Toyota Yaris WRC. The duo is now the only crew who can challenge teammates Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia in the battle for the championship with two rounds remaining, meaning a Toyota driver is now guaranteed to win the title for the third year in a row. The team has also taken a step closer to clinching the manufacturers’ championship for Toyota.

becoming only the third manufacturer to reach the achievement. With his second win of the season, Evans has reduced the gap with championship leader Ogier to 24 points. In the manufacturers’ championship, Toyota’s lead has increased to 61 points.

In the first Rally Finland to be held for over two years, the team faced tough competition on the high-speed gravel roads. Evans, in the No. 33 Toyota Yaris WRC, was GR’s best-placed driver at the end of the opening day in third overall, having produced a strong performance despite running second on the road. On the second day, he surged into the lead with four stage wins out of four and took an advantage of 9.1 seconds into the third and final day where he sealed the win in style with the fastest time in the rally-ending Power Stage, claiming the maximum five bonus points.

in the south of Barcelona from 14-17

The result means that the Toyota Yaris WRC – built in the rally’s home city of Jyväskylä – maintains its unbeaten record on its home roads since its debut in 2017. It is the vehicle’s 25th WRC victory in total and the 200th WRC podium for Toyota,

surface challenge.

Rally de España, set to be held in Salou October, will be the penultimate round of the season. The event is returning to the calendar after a year away and will be held on fast and smooth asphalt roads, after several years as a mixed-

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Ahmed Al Amri has claimed the iconic ‘King of Drift’ title for Qatar’s 2021 Red Bull Car Drift. The prestigious drifting event returned after a 2 year wait for a memorable qualifying round in Doha that drew motorsports fans and enthusiasts to the For more info, please visit : https://www.redbullcarparkdrift.com 74

Katara Cultural Village Southern Parking Lot.

Champion and Motorsports Veteran Adel Hussein Abdullah, and Red Bull Car Park Drift Series Manager Yusif Bassil. The event welcomed the legendary Red Bull Athlete, Abdo Feghali who returned to Doha as a supervisor and the mastermind behind the challenging obstacle course on the drifting track. Feghali also didn’t let the crowd down as he put on an impressive show on the track with the BMW M2 Hero Car that the spectators greatly enjoyed.

hmed Al Amri received his well-deserved first place trophy with 286 points in his Nissan Silvia S13, after putting on a spectacular performance that wowed the judges and spectators, making him stand out of the crowd. Starting with 17 drifters in Heat 1, Qatar’s Qualifier of Red Bull Car Park Drift served a competitive, action filled show for motorsports fanatics. Al Amri’s performance captivated the judges and fans through all three rounds leaving everyone in awe. Running up in second place was Abdallah Al-Mohtaseb on his Nissan 370z with accurate drifting talent and technique to score 213 Points, while Yasser Mustafa came in third place with his Nissan Silvia S13 scoring 51 points. The 3 winners enjoyed a memorable podium moment with Red Bull’s drifting Legend Abdo Fegahli, the judges and fans cheering around. The event was held under the patronage of Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), in partnership with Dunlop Tires, Vodafone Qatar, Al Fardan Automobiles, Katara Cultural Village, JW Marriott Marquis Doha, Al Meera Consumer Goods Company (Q.P.S.C.). Media partners included beIN SPORTS as the exclusive TV broadcast partner, I Love Qatar as exclusive online media partner, and ProTV as production partner. Those who couldn’t join the crowds still had the chance to enjoy the action from the comfort of their TV screen as the event was broadcasted exclusively live on BeIN Sports, and live streamed on Red Bull Motorsports Facebook page.

Commenting on the event, Abdo Feghali said “The drifting community in Qatar never fails to impress. Very good skills from all the drifters and a spectacular performance from Ahmed Al Amri who will for sure represent Qatar in the best way at the coming Red Bull Car Park Drift World Final.” Fegahli also praised the crowd stressing on the amazing vibe they had around the event which gave the drifters an extra push to give their best on the track. Gathering Motorsports fans from all over Qatar, the event also welcomed esteemed guests from various industries, esteemed media outlets and key opinion leaders and social influencers. Graced also by the presence of reputable Red Bull Athletes – Football Legend, Asia and ConcaCaf Top Scorer and Qatar National Football Team Striker and Duhail SC Captain Al Moeiz Ali, and e-Sports Champion Ahmed Al Meghessib, Qatar National e-Sports Team Captain. Both legends also took a turn on the track as they experienced the thrill of drift in the co-pilot seat with Abdo Feghali. Ahmed Al Amri will now shift his gear towards Egypt with all eyes on the Red Bull Car Park Drift World Final, set to take place on November 5th, 2021 gathering all winners from around the world. As COVID protocols were followed and social distancing was maintained safely, with masks on, mandatory vaccination requirements and EHTERAZ present at the entrace, the drifters and fans still enjoyed the event to the fullest.

Holding his trophy up high, the 2021 King of Drift Ahmed Al Amri expressed his joy about the achievement, saying: I am very happy with my participation in Red Bull Car Park Drift and winning Qatar’s king of drift title. It’s a milestone for me and a motivation for to give more in the future. Looking forward to the World Final in Egypt on November 5th. The judges panel featured motorsports experts from Qatar and the region including Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation’s Executive Director Amro Al Hamad, Qatari Rally

THE NEW ECLIPSE CROSS 2021 ELEGANT AND SPORTY WITH DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE, ENHANCED EXTERIOR DESIGN AND INTERIOR By Elias Haddad

The new crossover SUV Eclipse Cross 2021 offers dynamic performance and enjoys an overall enhanced exterior design, extended body length, upgraded sleek and elegant interior, advanced technology, and intelligent safety features.

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t is available now at the showrooms of Qatar Automobiles Company, the authorized distributor of Mitsubishi in Qatar, on Salwa Road and in Al Khor.

Since its global debut in 2017 and coinciding with Mitsubishi Motors’ 100th-anniversary, the Eclipse Cross has sold over 270,000 units worldwide in over 100 countries. In a short period, the Eclipse Cross earned top honours by several prestigious global and regional award programs and scooped a total of 16 awards.

The Exterior Developed under the design concept “Daring Grace”, the restyled front and rear design coupled with the extended body length create a more unified, sophisticated, sleek and sporty look of an SUV. The front design of the new Eclipse Cross adopted Mitsubishi Motors’ elegant and sporty Dynamic Shield to express the powerful performance of an SUV. To complete the sharp-looking design, the refreshed lighting layout consists of dauntless front combination lights with daytime running lights and turn signals that emphasize a broader look. The pentagonal headlights (available in halogen and LED types) and fog lights are combined into two characteristic cylinders. The elegant yet sporty form continues to the rear. The double rear windows are merged into a single one for sleeker styling and clearer visibility.

The Eclipse Cross’s iconic three-dimensional combination taillights, which house signature lights, taillights, spotlights, turn signals and backup lights, are also placed higher for a distinctive rear look that is easy to spot. The sculpted hexagon design expresses the robust stance of an SUV. The vehicle’s profile is further enhanced with an optional newly designed ten-spoke two-tone 18” alloy wheels.

Another major enhancement is the length of the new Eclipse Cross. It has a 2,670 mm wheelbase, an overall length of 4,545 mm (140mm longer than model-year 20), a width of 1,805 mm, and a height of 1,685 mm (2WD)/1,690 mm (High line).

PHOTOGRAPHY: FARHAT NAWEED PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIAL THANKS TO: HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT

Performance Available in 2WD option, the Eclipse Cross comes with two types of engine capacities; a 1.5L DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine and a 2.0L DOHC MIVEC engine. MIVEC, which stands for Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control system, facilitates a more dynamic driving performance.

The interior The interior of the Eclipse Cross is as sophisticated and stylish as its exterior. The seats now enjoy a new light grey colour option in addition to the existing black one. The upgraded seat materials include a new black fabric pattern, new grey fabric, new synthetic leather (combination of suede and artificial leather) and new genuine light grey leather.

Boosted road performance is further strengthened by Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC). S-AWC offers integrated control of Active Stability Control (ASC), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), and Active Yaw Control (AYC) to regulate braking force and torque. The control combined of these systems with fine-tuned rear suspension produces highly stable vehicle behaviour that is true to the driver’s intent.

Drivers can select different driving modes according to road and driving conditions. The Normal Mode

Passengers can now enjoy a more comfortable ride, thanks to several upgrades in the rear seat’s elements. The shape of the headrests is modified and larger, and the seats are 9-step adjustable to match the angle preference and offer improved body positioning for rear occupants.

provides the appropriate steering and stability for

The cargo area is more spacious and versatile. Large enough to fit four golf bags easily, even with five occupants inside, the luggage capacity is increased by 19% compared to the previous model. The rear seats can go flat with a 60:40 split foldable seatback to transport more items.

handling and stability on poor surfaces.

a broad range of driving scenarios, Snow Mode maintains stable vehicle movement on slippery surfaces, and Gravel Mode generates superior road

The new Eclipse Cross comes with an improved infotainment system that helps drivers operate safely on the road. The 8-inch Smartphonelink Display Audio (SDA) is now mounted and positioned closer to the driver for improved touchscreen operability and visibility. The SDA is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and allows intuitive operation of music, calls, maps, messages and more. 2 USB ports are fitted below the AC control to make it more accessible and convenient for both the driver and front passenger. A full-colour Head-Up Display (HUD) presents dashboard information, alerts and navigation signals that help drivers acquire information safely and quickly. Specially designed for the Eclipse Cross, the Mitsubishi Power Sound System (MPSS) features eight premium speakers acoustically tuned and positioned precisely for the vehicle’s shape to deliver clear and smooth sound quality. 79

SHERATON GRAND DOHA GOES PINK FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

xtending its support towards the breast cancer awareness month, Doha’s leading hotel, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, has launched several activities to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Doha’s iconic building is lighting up pink during the month of October to support the initiatives

Popular gathering place Atrium is launching a pink-themed afternoon tea during October that the hotel will be supporting the Qatar Cancer Society by donating QR5 per afternoon tea. Afternoon tea serves daily from 3pm to 7pm.

On October 25, Sheraton Doha Fitness will invite the guests to raise awareness of breast cancer month with a series of activities that the fund will be contributing to the Qatar Cancer Society. The activities include 4-5pm outdoor body workout with Chady in the Resort Garden; 5-6pm outdoor spinning with Allam; 6-8pm outdoor zumba with Rachelle, Pamela and Iman; and 7-8pm indoor yoga with Vishnu. Limited spots are available, and people can call on +974 4485 4600 for booking. Sheraton Grand Doha x Life coach Anahi will launch an exclusive platform aiming to bring together amazing women to share, discuss and witness each other’s journeys in a safe and enriching way so we can support each other in sisterhood. The launch event will take place on October 24, with an invitationonly event. 80

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LEXUS UX 2.0L 4-CYL (168 HP) • • • •

Paddle Shifter 18" Aluminum Wheels 8 Speakers Audio System Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

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Rear Cross Trafﬁc Alert Blind Spot Monitor System 3 Lens LED Headlamp Front & Rear Sensors with Rear Camera

Vehicle pictured and speciﬁcations detailed may vary from model/grades. Please check with the Lexus Showroom for more information.

For more information scan the QR code

For more information please call: 5080 2929 81

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LLQ Lifestyle Issue N'11