Qatar Happening - January 2013

QH January Cover.pdf

QR 8

1

12/22/12

2:56 PM

January 2013

DO THE C

M

Y

DOHA DASH: New Marathon Comes To Qatar

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

ReggaeStyle At The St. Regis

THE QATAR

EXXONMOBIL

TENNIS OPEN: Your Complete Guide

PARTY BOAT: New BBQ Donuts

Make Waves At The Diplomatic Club

QH &

ExxonMobil Essay Contest Winner Inside!

See Page 43

Table of Contents

pg 72 Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2013: A Complete Guide

OUT CHECK pening.com

atarhap ormation! q . w w w test inf a l e h t for

JANUARY MENT ENTERTAIN

EVERY ISSUE 7

8

Chairman’s Letter

A special New Year’s message from Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal.

The best of our monthly social media

31

Top Picks

19

Island Groove

32

Cultural Snapshots

34

Gifted Children

36

Katara Welcomes The New Year

Pullout calendar with the city’s do-not-miss monthly events

94

It Happened

QH’s photo gallery of the

latest happening events in Doha

104

Top Picks

20

11 Events Calendar

17

QH Speaks

TURE ARTS & CUL

It’s Reggae Barbeque Night at the St. Regis

BBQ Donuts

Party on the waves at the Diplomatic Club

22 Party Hoppin’ Happenings

Our round-up of the best parties to kick off 2013

24

Entertainment Listings

Phone Directory Need-to-know phone numbers

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

Find out everything that’s going on this month

We unveil the Ferjaan in Tokyo photo contest winners

Autistic children use creative expression for a good cause

January’s a big month at the Cultural Village. Don’t miss out!

39 Arts and Culture Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com 5

Table of Contents

pg 60

COMMUNITY 41

Top Picks

43

An Education

44

Generation TEDx

48

Community Listings

49

Kids Club Top Picks

50

Childcare In Qatar

54

Kids Club Listings

Sweet Substitutions

The winning entry from the ExxonMobil ‘Make Your Words Count’ essay contest

An inside look at the TEDx Youth in Doha movement

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Finding the right nursery for your little ones

Ideas to do with the kids

ING FOOD & DIN 57 58

60

IONS QH SENSAT

Top Picks

71

Top Picks

81

QH Recommends

QH Eats

72

Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2013

82

A Sense Of Eforea

85

Reasons To Fly

86

Road Warriors

88

Virgin Recommends

90

Spotlight On Movies

92

The Dish On Qatar

We review the deep-sea flavours at Red Lobster

Sweet Substitutions

Cut out the sugar this New Year without sacrificing the taste

62 Food and Dining Listings

SPORTS

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Your complete guide to the most star-studded sporting event of the year

76

The Doha Dash Hit the pavement with a new marathon coming to Qatar

78

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Our fave little luxuries of the month

Have Your Say: e.

Feedback and comments are always welcom Please forward letters to the editor:

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing:

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com

Fax:

info@qatarhappening.com marketing@qatarhappening.com

6

+974 4427 8416 +974 5556 5046 +974 4427 8415

Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar

Going slim and trim spa-style at the Hilton

Our pick of top destinations

Hitting the open highway from Doha to Abu Dhabi

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

This month’s top five films

We show you where to buy and eat local

Enjoy...

f The O k s e D e h T From Chairman

er? v o C e h t n O Cover.pdf QH January

QH Welcomes Our Readers To A New Year

1

12/22/12

10:12 AM

January 2013

QR 8

E DO TH DASH:

PARTY ATuts: BO New BBQ Don

DOHA

n New Maratho r Comes To Qata

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Dear friends, into the New As we celebrate our emergence for reflection time take to stop Year, we should a nation this for all we have accomplished as w and gro to past year, as Qatar continues its people. and ld wor prosper in the eyes of the tement exci and tion cipa anti e, It is with much hop 3 201 and all that that we look towards the future ntry. will bring for our beloved cou itude that our minds it is with immense grat With National Day still fresh in hness Hig His r, Emi ble oura hon n to our we extend our utmost appreciatio Apparent, Heir Thani and our most respected Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al efforts ess tirel r thei bin Hamad Al Thani for His Highness Sheikh Tamim the and y nom eco ld wor the the forefront of to shape and propel our nation to humanitarian stage. ved Emir, a le acts of diplomacy as our belo This year saw some truly incredib n outspoken bee both e hav t, the Heir Apparen staunch advocate for peace, and up to the light as an example for voices for peace, holding Qatar a global level. international co-operation on non-violence, prosperity and Highness His call to erely proud and grateful For this, we as a people are sinc ers. lead Apparent, our the Emir and His Highness the Heir es and rs as a hub for economic initiativ Qatar continues to open its doo Nations ted Uni the r our nation welcomed cultural enlightenment. This yea 18 CoP s ion Nat ted Uni elopment, the Conference on Trade and Dev the ing ich Enr for um For a Doh the 12th Conference of the Parties and and ers lead ld East, bringing together wor Economic Future of the Middle visionaries on our shores. hness efforts of our First Lady, Her Hig We also acknowledge the selfless cy for oca adv her continued support and Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and Knowledge th. you ed rish world’s most impove global access to education for the for e forc ing lead a is she freedom and and learning are the true keys to ng girls. The for education – particularly amo ts righ an hum and ality change, equ made our has ip ndation under her leadersh important work of the Qatar Fou education k, wor rity cha al stars in the realm of nation one of the brightest glob and media communications. ting and d to play a small part in highligh We at Qatar Happening are prou es to tinu con ar Qat As of our great nation. celebrating the accomplishments it to with e ther be will ing pen at Qatar Hap write its own success story, we e. share in its triumphs, page by pag It is my pleasure to wish all of you Ahmed Hassan Bilal Chairman

a very Happy New Year.

Make Waves At Club The Diplomatic

ReggaeStyle is

Tennis superstar Rafael Nadal takes a swing Photo Credit: The Qatar Tennis Federation

QH &

At The St. Reg

ExxonMobil

THE QATAR IL

OB EXXONMEN:

Essay Contest Winner Inside!

See Page 43

TENNIS OP e Guide Your Complet

About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com.

Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Lead Designer: Soné Moriarty Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Chloe Adelle, Sarah Al-Motairi, Mohammed

Al Suwaidi, Badir Bechara, Jacqueline Bodnar, John Hunt, Roy Mustang, Kevin Rodriges, Charlie Sands, Rubina Singh, Gerald Tan

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group.

The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers.

All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.

2012

7

QH Speaks QH’S 2013 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

13 for 20 o lution .t o … s e e r s lea r’s roll), p w ye a , ye s , My ne roll (or eye- althier. Yes ’s he an um is…dr n d get everym eight a ubiquitous solution, w e s e lo re . It’s th Year’s what they I know an’s!) New h it w g to m ed (or wo been afflict since movin t ’ e n an but I’v ‘Doha Doze es, restaur ith c e n h s e ulg e nt w call t ich ind -centric ev r when R . r a t d Qa foo n sw e s and no for an a d helping... w ie v e r hir taking that t o therefore, no one ely decline .S n o t p li e rot you po slowly cre of the car r s a o il e the k ill be the y w 2013 r me!

I can eat everyday so o f se ci k er ex ic o t “T s .” r afterwards a snicker ba E E A SH L r o it d E Lanie inistrator Office Adm

“For 2013, I want to spen d more quality hours with my beau tiful daughter s Eeksha, five and Saa ksha, who will be eight months old th is January.”

Srimani Finalizer / P ro

duction Man

ager

rrounded want to be su “This year I tive ith more posi by people w with my e m d more ti en sp , gy er en avel more.” family and tr Jorge ns ommunicatio Sales and C Manager

r’s e, (I “My New Yea exercise mor to is ar!) resolution ye the same last think it was on d I have pile However, as year, I am very is th ds the poun carry it out.” to ed in determ Susanna Manager New Media

8

We ask, you answer. The best of the best of our social media top picks this month.

Here’s what you’re saying!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

is to on for 2013 “My resoluti s er ell the flow stop and sm ng ki ta e I propos more often . joy your en to y da your time out of l, we were al nds. After ie fr d an ily fam . Let your to be robots enjoy the never meant a while and in ce on n w hair do moment.”

Soné ic Designer Lead Graph e decent arn to play on “ To finally le o and to get past pian song on the one, in ne , section to Rosetta S French !!” ri Whitice Moona Mas irector D e Executiv

ed by June re I am marri “To make su 40 an last more th and make it years.”

Zahi esigner er/Graphic D ag an M nd ra B

In Your Face

wers to give us We also asked our Facebook follo ns – positive lutio their take on New Year’s reso ? tion ecta exp tic motivation or unrealis uage, “I would like to learn a new lang I would e Hop ! nish Spa or maybe French the of end the at e vers con to be able as Abb as Alm – r!” yea “I don’t believe in New Year’s eve resolutions bec ause I don’t beli take in this concep t and it shouldn’t nge cha to e eon a ‘new year’ for som ’t don ple peo feel I or improve themselves. lution bec ause, generally make a New Year’s reso it or don’t stick oftentimes, they forget about lutions wor k for to it. I do feel New Year’s reso and have a plan ted mit some people to stay com . I have never sful ces suc be to accomplish and lution in my suc cessfully completed any reso ned, hence, plan life; things don’t wor k for me as ous New seri any e mad I personally have never never will.

I k thin I and h suc as Year’s resolutions diq M. Sid ui Happy New Year to all! – Rafia

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

QH Out & About Emirates Gold Skywards Reception Dec 15, 2012 Rubbing elbows with Doha’s glitterati at the exclusive Emirates airlines event in Rocca at the Grand Hyatt.

TWEETS OF THE MONTH @ Jrawson Stop the press! Big puddles forming on the Pearl

@AlansariME Taking the kids to Udaid beach, spending the day between the dunes.

Fun, grill and relaxation.

@RayaAlKhalifa Second from left: Khalid AlSerkal, Emirates Area Manager Qatar, Centre: Garry Friend, General Manager, Grand Hyatt Doha, Second from Right: DJ Danny Rampling

Being very spoiled at the new restaurant Quisine by Guy Savoy on The Pearl. How delicious was that?!

@Its_mae WOW that thunder was soooooo loud!!!

@Jeannewmanglock Congrats on a great film festival!

Fab opening night for DTFF 2012!

@Princess Relena Rampling. Ashlee Starratt, o Latté. DJ Ilona Inc. DJ Danny L-R: Nicholas Chrisostomou, Coc er, Grand Hyatt Doha. ing and Communications Manag QH Editor. Farah Elalfy, Market

OMG I’m going to JLO’s Concert next week :D that is soooo amazing to win such thing hehe thanx a lot

@Clairehardiman Just won a Qatar Happening competition...2 flights to Dubai, night in hotel & tickets to see JLO! Guess next weekend won’t be quiet after all!

Franco Canzano Left: Rocca’s chef de cuisine,

10

Grand Hyatt Gene ral Manager Ga rry Friend welcomes guests to Rocca

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

THEME NIGHTS AT MAWASEM! Join us for theme nights at Mawasem and sample exotic and delectable tastes from around the world.

Thursdays - Seafood Extravaganza starting from QR 250 per person Fridays - Asian Persuasion starting from QR 190 per person Saturdays - 1001 Arabian Feast Nights starting from QR 190 per person Sundays - Curry and Creole staring from QR 190 per person Daily from 7 pm-10:30 pm For reservations, please call +974 4423 3333

Š Hilton Worldwide 2012. *Oer is subject to availability from 7 pm -10:30 pm and is valid throughout January 2013. Not valid with any other promotion or special deal.

Entertainment

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month West End, Renaissance Doha City Center Premier League Football Sun 13: Champions. Live on the big screens: Man United vs. Liverpool at Champions 4:30 p.m., followed by Arsenal vs. Man City at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

Sharq Village & Spa Fondue Nights With Habanason Trio

Tues 1 – Thurs 31: Cigar Lounge. Enjoy the Latin trio from Cuba during your fondue.

Qr 125 including a glass of vino. For more information call 4425-6666.

el Doha t o H k c i p n e v ö M

Radisson Blu Hotel First Pub Quiz Of 2013 Mon 28: Shehrazad. Bring along your team of six to take part in Doha’s favourite Quiz Night. Starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

Live Jazz

Fri 4 – Fri 25: Jaz z Club. l Band. Fabulous swing Kral Fri 4: Mar y from this vocalist. in Fri 11: Chris Coull Quartet. Best coe Pas ielle Dan 18: modern jazz. Fri blues.

Jaz zamataz z. Vocal jazz, funk and or Fri 25: Jaz z Jam. Go and join in tion rma info e watch the fun! For mor call 4429-1111.

OUT om K C E CH ening.c

p atarhap information! q . w w w e latest

La Cigale Ladies Night With DJ Roger Choueiry Sundays: Madison Piano Bar. Ladies joining the DJ nights will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. Opens from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., no entrance fee, no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8665.

for th

17

Entertainment

Island

Groove

By Ashlee Starratt

Reggae Barbeque Nights at the St. Regis Doha’s Oyster Bay are now in full swing! QH takes in the Jamaicaninspired fare and cool Caribbean rhythms.

Y

ou’ll stay for the tunes as much as the authentic island food and atmosphere at the new Reggae Barbeque Nights at Oyster Bay in the St. Regis. Located poolside it’s the perfect spot to unwind on a Thursday evening with friends. We arrive early, shortly after 8:30 p.m. and within an hour the terrace is full. With comfy, plush sofa and cabana seating, torch-lighting and spectacular views of the Pearl and the bright towers of West Bay on either side, Oyster Bay has an up-scale, yet casual vibe that’s welcoming and unpretentious.

The MUSIC

Their new Reggae Barbeque Nights have been a hit as the full house attests, and we settle in as the band takes the stage – and believe us, they’re good. Hailing from Barbados their resident reggae ensemble is the real deal, with a true roots sound that pays homage to the greats Bob Marley and Linton Kwesi Johnson. With a wide repertoire of traditional reggae classics they’ll even take requests from the audience, getting feet tapping and bodies on the dance-floor.

open-air grill and chef station

We were also impressed with the Caribbean barbecue on offer from the open-air grill and chef station. Our server brought us starters of piping hot jerk chicken with creamy peanut sauce, fresh hand-cut chips with pâté and their signature Calypso ceviche. For our mains we had a variety of fresh-off-the-

Spicy J

amaica

Caribbean sounds from the resi

coals meat and seafood seasoned with powerful Jamaican jerk spices, a hearty beef stew, Cajun beans, Caribbean rice, baked potato and salad. At QR 150 per person for this all-inclusive feast, it’s a pretty reasonable deal.

Also, Wednesdays are Ladies Night where the girls can enjoy two drinks for the price of one on selected house beverages.

With the cool winter months upon us, Oyster Bay’s Reggae Barbeque Nights are on the top of our list of outdoor hotspots for a chill, laid-back island experience in the heart of Doha. We’re pretty sure it’s the first place in the city to have a live reggae band performing nightly on the weekends, providing a nice break from the thumping club scenes around town. It’s definitely a place we would come back to for sure; but don’t forget to bring a sweater since it

n shrim

p

dent reggae band

can get a bit chilly sitting outside this time of year, or order that extra helping of jerk chicken to keep you and your tastebuds sweating. See you there!

About Reggae Barbeque Nights Location: Oyster Bay, The St. Regis Doha Timings: Every Wed, Thurs and Friday

8:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Price: QR 150 for BBQ, beverages not included Licenced: Yes Smoking: Yes Contact Info: 4446-0105 or www.stregisdoha.com

19

Entertainment

BBQ Donuts!

at the Diplomatic Club

By Jorge Granda Can you imagine having lunch or dinner with family or friends inside an inflatable donut and sailing far into the ocean? That’s exactly what you can do at the super exclusive Diplomatic Club. QH has the inside scoop on this new concept – all aboard!

L

Party on the waves!

ocated next to the Pearl-Qatar along the blue waters of West Bay, the Diplomatic Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in the country, constantly reinventing itself with new facilities and top-notch service. This month the Diplomatic Club unveils its new BBQ Donuts, offering guests an interesting and one-of-a-kind dining experience.

The floating device is a low-smoke charcoal kettle grill, specially designed to provide occupants with a delicious menu in a totally safe environment.

The BBQ Donut can easily accommodate eight people and has a fully adjustable sun shade. If you’re worried about your food sliding off, the moulded table ensures that won’t happen, so you can sail into the turquoise waters of West Bay and relax while feasting on lovely food and beverages.

It’s the perfect outing for kids, families, friends and couples, or to host meetings with clients or co-workers who are up for a new and extravagant experience. It’s perfectly safe and fun! The club offers trips departing from the beach-front at the shore, with a delicious menu and different timings available. For those who are more interested in having beverages while taking to the sea rather than a full BBQ, that’s also possible and easy to arrange. Don’t miss out on this great experience and book your donut today!

20

Up to eight people can enjoy a delicious floating barbeque.

: t c e p x e o t t a Wh BBQ DONUTS Menu:

BBQ Donut Features:

Rental Fees:

Assorted freshly baked breads

Seats up to 8 guests

1 hour QR 450

Caesar salad with herbed croutons & Parmesan slivers

1 captain (price included in rental fee)

2 hours QR 800

Music, Umbrella, 5 horse-power motor

For each additional 30 mins QR 200

Marinated & sliced chicken breast Marinated & sliced beef tenderloin Hot dogs Vegetable skewers Baked potatoes Cinnamon pineapple skewers

Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Reservations: Email: spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa Making a splash near the Diplomatic Club Phone: 4484-7450

Beverages: Chilled juices, mineral water, soft drinks Price: QR 180 per person, Only 1 menu available, House beverages available with additional charges

21

Entertainment

’ n i p p s o g H n i y n t e r p ap Pa H

22

da

Event: Tapas Promotion Date: Every Friday in January Where: Doha Jazz Club at the Mövenpick Hotel Doha Timings: 8:00 p.m.

Reservations: 4429-1111

an

Tapas Promotion Choose from a wide variety of Spanish snacks served with a glass of Sangria.

Three dishes for QR 45 per person or six tapas dishes for QR 65 per person. Free entrance for all. Catch the sizzling performance by the Doha Jazz Club every Friday starting from 8.00 p.m. onwards.

Gr

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

rge

Jo

nd-up of g u o r e h t n! da has ty rollin Party O2013! QH’s Jorge Gevraennts to keep the par to iss Welcome hottest, do-not-m January’s ew Year. into the N

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DO HA The Library Bar & Cigar LoungeMartini Monday Ever thought that Monday could be your favourite day of the week? Now it can be, as the Library & Cigar Lounge at the Four Seasons is launching its Martini Mondays.

Indulge in their selection of signature martinis before dinner or come later for a night cap every Monday.

Event: The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge- Martini Monday Date: Every Monday Where: The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge at the Four Seasons Timings: Opens daily from 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Reservations: 4494-8888

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA A Night To Remember Enjoy a night to remember at Liquidity at the new and trendy Crowne Plaza Doha-The Business Park.

Event: A Night To Remember Date: Daily Where: Liquidity at the Crowne Plaza Doha-The Business Park.

Timings: 7:00 pm to 12 midnight Reservations: 4408-7777

HILTON DOHA KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Half Note Wednesdays Funky saxophone sounds and upbeat mixes from the DJ, paired with a unique ambiance, trendy crowd and hip cocktails make this night at The Lounge the new talk-of-the-town.

Event: Half Note Wednesdays Date: Every Wednesday Where: The Lounge at Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha Timings: 7:00 p.m. to 12 midnight Dress code: Smart Casual Reservations: Recommended, call 4405-3325 or email: thelounge.doha@kempinski.com

Cuban Band Nights At Trader Vic’s Set out on a South-Pacific culinary experience by the beach while moving to the beats of a live Cuban band at Trader Vic’s Hilton Doha. Choose from delectable Asian-Polynesian dishes and signature drinks served in this island haven, replete with artifact-like tapa cloths, tropical fabrics and tribal masks that pay homage to its Polynesian roots.

Event: Cuban Band Nights At Trader Vic’s Date: Daily except Mondays Where: Trader Vic’s at the Hilton Doha Timings: 9:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Dress Code: Casual Reservations: 4423-3118

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER HOTEL African Cup Of Nations Current holders Zambia head to South Africa to defend their title. At Champions you can enjoy all the action live!

Event: African Cup Of Nations Date: Starting on January 19 Where: Champions at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel Timings: Various Dress code: No shorts

SHERATON DOHA Ladies Night Gather your pals and enjoy one of the trendiest Ladies Nights at the fabulous Irish Harp, on the ground floor of the Sheraton Doha Resort and Hotel.

Event: Ladies Nights Date: Tuesdays Where: Irish Harp at the Sheraton Doha Resort and Hotel.

Timings: 8:00 p.m – 2:00 a.m.

Reservations: 4485-4071 Price: QR 100 for men with one complimentary drink, free entrance for ladies and free-flowing house beverages for ladies until closing

Mix & Fuse Mix and socialize at The Lounge with the trendiest crowd in Doha while sipping your favourite cocktail and benefit from the 50% discount on selected drinks, cocktails and Tasting & Sharing menu items.

Event: Mix & Fuse Date: Daily Where: The Lounge at Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha Timings: 5:00 p.m. To 7:00 p.m.

Dress code: Smart Casual Reservations: Recommended, call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com 23

Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

REGISTER E ONeklLyIN 5 newsletter

for the We www.qatarhappening.com

W DOHA Bond Party: Shaken Not Stirred

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Jazzy Afternoons

Sat 5, 12, 19, 26: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha. Get up close and personal with the musicians and learn about the fascinating world of Jazz while enjoying New-Orleans inspired bites. Sat 5: (Sherman Irby Quintet), Sat 12: (Regina Carter), Sat 19: (Regina Carter), Sat 26: (Billy Childs Quartet). QR 178 per person. 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

ONE OF A KIND WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Qatar Tennis Open

Tues 1 – Sat 5: Champions. Get the best seat in the house to watch the matches. Enjoy your favourite ice cold beverages and a lipsmacking menu. For more information call 4419-6100.

HILTON DOHA Double Up

Tues 1 – Thurs 31: Zawaya Lounge. Enjoy a complimentary duplicate drink for every drink you order along with delicious bites and marvelous view of the Arabian Gulf. From 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

W DOHA Afrobeats

Wed 9: Wahm. Enjoy the new sound of London underground DJ Bruno Rocharte and DJ Kinky D spinning the decks.

10:00 p.m till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5000.

24

RADISSON BLU HOTEL The Laughter Factory

Mon 14 & Tues 15: Shehrazad. Three of the best comics present over two hours of club stand-up, direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings are non-smoking events! Starts at 8:00 p.m. QR 130 per person, including one drink from the sponsor.

For more information call 4428-1555.

W DOHA Buddha Bar Night with DJ Ravin.

Fri 18: Wahm. Opening act from Bruno Rocharte, 7:00 p.m till 10:00 p.m. Then DJ Ravin on the decks from 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5000.

W DOHA White Party

Wed 23: Wahm. Enjoy the groovy tunes of DJ Bruno Rocharte and Kinky D with a BBQ from 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., QR 150 per person.

Go dressed in white and sip one drink on them. The best dressed in white gets a brunch for two at Spice Market. For more information call 4453-5000.

Wed 30: Wahm. Gentlemen slide into your tuxedoes and ladies get glamorous.

Watch the classic Bond movies all night long. The best dressed wins a voucher for a Sushi Night for two. A welcome drink to all Bonds and Moneypenny’s! For more information call 4453-5000.

EVERY WEEK KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Cigar Night

Sundays: The Lounge. Discover an exclusive selection of Cuban cigars, pair them with your favourite drink and indulge in fine savoury bites along with jazzy sounds from a band. 8.00 p.m. till 2.00 a.m.

For more information call 4405-3325.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Happy Hours

Sundays - Thursdays: Cigar Lounge.

5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., Al Seef 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. There’s a choice of two contrasting locations for happy hour with 50 percent off regular brands and beverages. For more information call 4425-6666.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Overtime

Sundays - Thursdays: Level 23. Offering two drinks for the price of one including a selection of vinos, beers and soft drinks (no bottles). From 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8506.

Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

W DOHA Urban Night

Tuesdays: Crystal. Resident DJ Greg mixing up the best of RnB, Hip-Hop & Old School with a Crystal special twist.

3 free drinks for ladies from 10:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Latino Night

Tuesdays: M Lounge. The best Latino Night at M Lounge from 8:00 p.m. Free entrance and membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.

SHERATON DOHA Latino Night

Saturdays: Latino. Free house drinks for ladies when having a minimum of two courses from the a la carte menu. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

W DOHA The Vibe Ladies Night

Mondays: Wham Poolside Lounge. Come at 8:00 p.m. for 3 complimentary drinks for ladies, at 9:00 p.m. for 2 drinks and at 10:00 p.m. for 1 drink. For more information call 4453-5000.

HILTON DOHA Ladies and the City!

Mondays: Zawaya Lounge. Ladies enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling accompanied by live music and inspiring views. For more information call 4423-3333.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Rock Star Mondays: Paloma. Join the resident band Smart Casuals on stage to perform the songs of your choice. Free drinks for everyone who participates and prizes for the weekly and monthly winners as chosen by the band. For more information call 4484-4444.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Live Band Nights

Mondays & Tuesdays: Admiral’s Club.

From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8663.

26

SHERATON DOHA New Band

Mondays - Saturdays: Irish Harp. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha.

Listen to new live entertainment from 8:00 p.m. till 11:45 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Mashups With DJ Shadi & DJ Steve KZ Tuesdays: Lava. The two resident DJs presents their unique mash-up sounds from 10:00 p.m. with free drinks for ladies all night. For more information call 4484-4444.

SHERATON DOHA Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Irish Harp. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha at the Irish Harp. Ladies free entrance and drinks, gents QR 100 including one drink.

From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

LA CIGALE Disco Night with DJ/VJ Roger Choueiry

Tuesdays: Sky View. Celebrate disco with mixed live tunes from the 80s and 90s and music videos on a giant LED screen. Opens from 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee; no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8665.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Cheeses & Grapes

Tuesdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Join the sommelier for an evening of tastings.

Let him introduce you to a wide selection of labels and cheeses. Over 40 labels to choose from and 7 different cheeses to pair with the tasting. QR 200. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m.

For more information call 4446-0105.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA UEFA Champions League & Euroleague

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays: Al Wanis. Showing the most important games of the season. 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

W DOHA Spice Market Late Night Sessions Tuesdays – Fridays: Spice Market. Enjoy the Southeast Asian flavours or sip another drink.11:30 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

W DOHA Chill-Out with DJ Suzee X Tuesdays - Saturdays: Crystal. Spinning the best of chill-out and funky house music 8:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Enjoy Happy Hour daily from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. with 50% discount on beverages. For more information call 4453-5135.

W DOHA Kiss N’ Fly

Wednesdays: Crystal. Ladies get three complimentary drinks from 10:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Check-in for a special flight with international DJ Greg. For more information call 4453-5135.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Ladies Big Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma and Lava. The Smart Casuals will kick off the night followed by DJ Shadi and DJ Paul Mendez. Unlimited free drinks for ladies from 10:00 pm until late.

QR 80 entrance for men; ladies enter free of charge. Membership required. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA High Heels Night

Wednesdays: Vintage Lounge. Ladies are invited for a complimentary welcome glass of bubbly and 25% off on snacks menu. EXCLUSIVE THIS JANUARY: When ordering the Jason Wu Grand Tourista cocktail - a drink inspired by the ‘White Lady’ cocktail - ladies will enter a draw and get the chance to win a highfashion Grand Tourista Bag specially designed by Jason Wu for The St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. For more information call 4446-0105.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up

Wednesdays & Fridays: Jazz Club.

The perfect spot to chill out in the contemporary yet intimate surroundings while listening to smooth tunes and indulging in quality drinks, creative cocktails and an extensive snacks menu with live entertainment. For more information call 4429-1111.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Club Night

Wednesdays: Admiral’s Club. With DJ Leo, and offering ladies two complimentary drinks. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8663.

WEEKEND THURSDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Party Rok

Thursdays: Lava. Doha’s most refined house music night with unique music from Paul Mendez and Chris Hughes. For more information call 4484-4444.

W DOHA Pure Crystal

Thursdays: Crystal. International DJ’s and producers mixing up the best for a magic night to remember. For more information call 4453-5135.

LA CIGALE DJ Roger Choueiry

Thursdays and Fridays: 7 Nightclub. A special DJ mix party. From 9:00 p.m till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee for ladies.

For more information call 4428-8665.

Membership required.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Ladies Night

Thursdays: Admiral’s Club. Offering ladies three complimentary drinks. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8663.

ST. REGIS DOHA Chill-Out Nights

Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays. Opal

by Gordon Ramsay. Relax to the sounds of chill music while enjoying soothing views of the Arabian Gulf on Opal Terrace. Enjoy special prices throughout the evening on a wide selection of beverages and complimentary canapés from 5:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

FRIDAY SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Salsa & Candela

Fridays: Cigar Lounge. Lively Latin sounds and a great atmosphere. QR 85 inclusive of a welcome drink. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m.

For more information call 4425-6666.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Sparkling Fridays Fridays: The Lounge. Fridays are bright and sparkling! All ladies receive two complimentary glasses of bubbly.

7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405- 3325.

W DOHA LED Percussionist: Safix

Fridays: Crystal. Performing live for the first time in Doha alongside resident DJ Greg mixing all the latest tunes. 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA R&B Hip-Hop Night

Fridays: Admiral’s Club. With DJ Aloysius. Offering ladies two complimentary drinks. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8663.

SATURDAYS KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Vino e Formaggio Saturdays: The Lounge. Explore an exceptional selection of vino perfectly paired with a rare selection of cheeses, starting from Sat 10, 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325.

W DOHA Arabesque Night

Saturdays: Crystal. LAYALI 1001 NIGHT’s with The Stars JAMIL&FADI performing live. All the latest Arabic songs and DJ IMRAN mixing the best of R&B and Commercial House. 10:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

27

W DOHA Duty Free Sessions

Saturdays: Wham Poolside Lounge.

Chilled beats with a flaming food BBQ buffet and Mojito bar. 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. QR 120 per person. For more information call 4453-5000.

MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Ladies Night

Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays: M Lounge. Ladies enjoy free entry, free membership and two free selected beverages.

For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Happy Hours

Saturdays – Wednesdays: Habanos.

Enjoy two drinks for the price of one from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and at Admiral’s Club from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.

W DOHA Sip & Savour

Saturdays – Thursdays: Spice Market. Sip one and the second is on the house, together with complimentary snacks. 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA Ladies Nights

Saturdays & Mondays: Brazilian Lounge and Liquidity. The first two drinks are complimentary for ladies. Happy hour at Liquidity is daily from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.

For more information call 4408-7777.

REGISTER E NeklLyIN OWe 5 newsletter

for the www.qatarhappening.com

Arts & Culture

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Alriwaq Doha The Art Of Travel Tues 1 - Thurs 31: Alriwaq Doha.

Introduces visitors to the story of Bartholomäus Schachman and his travel journals in the Arabic world from the 16th century. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.

QMA GALLERY Yan Pei-Ming

Tues 1 - Sat 12: QMA Gallery. Yan Pei-Ming is a world-renowned artist best known for his large-scale paintings of cultural icons. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.

ONIC QATAR PHILHARM ORCHESTRA

Mathaf The Art Of Travel Tues 1 – Thurs 31: Mathaf. Using the rich context of Egypt as a case study, the exhibit examines the journeys artworks make over time. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.

Al Markhiya Gallery Passage To The Sky

A Viennese New Year’s Concert

Sun 6: Opera House. 7:30 p.m.

For more information call 4454-8193.

OUT om K C E CH ening.c

p atarhap information! q . w w w e latest for th

Thurs 4 – Sat 29: Souq Waqif. By Palestinian artists Nabil Anani, Suleiman Mansour and Tayseer Barakat. Saturday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., Friday 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. or by appointment. Admission is free. For more information call 4422-8007 or 6600-8750 or email info@almarkhiyagallery.com.

31

Arts & Culture

Cultural Snapshots

QH showcases the winning images from the Ferjaan Photo Contest held in Tokyo this fall. Learn more about this cultural exchange between Qatar and Japan!

F

erjaan, which means ‘neighbourhood’ in colloquial Qatari Arabic, is a cultural village of over 1,200 square metres and was one of the many events organized as part of Qatar Japan 2012. The aim of this year-long series of events is to promote mutual understanding and appreciation of the cultures, traditions and people of the State of Qatar and Japan.

The Ferjaan in Tokyo event was held from September 27 to October 1, 2012 and featured a recreation of a Qatari village showcasing the modern culture of Qatar through an historically accurate representation of a souq, the traditional Arabic marketplace. The souk hosted a myriad of exhibits from Qatari companies and cultural projects, accompanied by a number of informative talks and 32

presentations and a selection of Qatari products.

Most exciting of all for photography enthusiasts was the Ferjaan Photo Contest where entrants could submit their best shots that reflected the theme of ‘Family’, which is emblematic of the ties between Qatar and Japan and black and white submissions for the theme of ‘Culture’. With a panel of judges including representatives from I Love Qatar and Japanese Ambassador H.E. Mr. Kenjiro Monji, there were dozens of entries to select from.

The winners featured above came from those Japanese nationals who participated in the contest, while a similar contest ‘Qatar Through The Eyes Of Its People’, was held for Qatari nationals with the top ten images on

display at the Ferjaan village. First place winner, Zohre Miha’s ‘The First Sword Dance’ (pictured above) captures the essence of this traditional Qatari cultural display, bringing a taste of Qatar to Japanese audiences.

Second place winner, Akira Hoshino’s ‘Thank You Qatar’, reflects the face of diversity between Qatar and Japan, but also a shared common camaraderie. And finally, third place winner Akira Nagaoka’s ‘Young’ points a vision to the future as the next generation of Qatari and Japanese youth continue to forge bonds between the two nations.

Congratulations to the top three winners and to all who took part in the photo contest and participated to make Qatar Week: Ferjaan in Tokyo 2012 a success!

Arts & Culture

G

ifted

Children

Lagoona Mall and IFC - International Food Concept join hands in supporting national autism initiatives championed by local philanthropic organizations, Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs and Best Buddies Qatar. QH has the details on this important cause.

I

nternational Food Concept, the holding company behind Chili’s and Lagoona Mall will run a display of paintings, crafted by the children of Shafallah Center affected by autism, as a combined endeavour to raise awareness of the disorder. Children have drawn 12 paintings which have been adapted into an annual Calendar for 2013 by IFC and will be sold in Chili’s restaurant at Lagoona Mall and all other branches including Bert’s Café, Johnny Rockets, Popeye’s and Romano’s Macaroni Grill.

Proceeds from sales will be donated to the Shafallah Center.

Sheikh Hamad bin Ahmad Al-Thani, Chairman of General Trading Group, the parent company of IFC, helped initiate the project and was delighted to pair with the Shafallah Center. “Autism is not a tragedy... ignorance is,” he says. “The disability is a spectrum condition that affects everyone differently, therefore if we will help today - we can change tomorrow and draw a smile on children’s faces.”

Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the first three years of life. Most parents of children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) suspect that something is wrong by the time the child is 18 months old and seek help by the time the child is age two. Children with ASD present with symptoms that vary in severity from one individual to another and some patients may be highly 34

functioning in life. The most common symptoms consist of underdeveloped interpersonal and social skills and impaired communication. The total number of ASD children under 18 years of age and living in Qatar in 2009 was estimated at 294. The prevalence of the disorder is significantly on the rise worldwide from 1 in 10,000 children in the early 90’s to an alarming 1 case in every 150 children in 2009.

Best Buddies Qatar is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment. In April 2012, Qatar marked the fifth annual World

Autism Awareness Day when autism organizations around the world celebrate the occasion with unique events. The celebration every year as a global day to raise awareness about autism came in response to a proposal submitted by Qatar to the United Nations. The proposal was adopted by the U.N.’s General Assembly on December 18, 2007.

The Shafallah Center has established a hotline number for parents, teachers and the general public to call to ask for information. The number is: +974 4495-6633 and specialists will be available to provide support and address questions and concerns relating to autism. A website has also been set up where people can find information, resources and seek advice: www.shafallahautism.org.

Youth from the Shafallah Center display their artwork at Chili’s in Lagoona Mall

Arts & Culture

s e m o c l e W a Katar The New Year Kick off 2013 with a stellar line-up of events at the Cultural Village this January!

Magida El Roumi Jan 10, 2013 8:00 p.m.

Amphitheater Internationally-renowned Lebanese singer Magida El Roumi will perform a unique concert in Katara’s Amphitheater, singing from her new album with a full repertoire of her gold hits.

‘Les Troyens’: The Met Live in HD Jan 5, 2013 8:00 p.m.

Drama Theater The MET offers a rare opportunity to witness Berlioz’s vast epic, ‘Les Troyens’, last performed at the MET in 2003.

Deborah Voight, Susan Graham, Marcello Giordani and Dwayne Croft lead the starry cast, portraying characters from the Trojan War. MET Principal Conductor Fabio Luisi marshals the large scale musical forces.

English subtitles and two intermissions.

k live from the MET in New Yor On-stage with ‘Les Troyens’

‘Maria Stuarda’: The Met Live in HD Jan 19, 2013 8:55 p.m.

Drama Theater Mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, one of the world’s most exciting singers, takes on a virtuoso bel canto role of the doomed Mary, Queen of Scots. Director David McVitar turns to the second opera of Donizetti’s Tudor trilogy, which explores regal characters at fateful moments of their lives. Elza van den Heever sings Elizabeth I and Maurizio Benini conducts. English subtitles and one intermission.

36

Joyce DiDonato evokes the trou bled

Mary, Queen of Scots in ‘Maria Stuarda’

‘‘MAGNUM 65’ Jan 8 – Feb 12, 2013 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Building 13: Galleries 1 & 2 Magnum Photos was founded in 1947

by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, George Rodger and David Seymour, four photographers pursuing independence to witness world events and the protection of their authorship through copyright.

Henri Cartier Bresson set the agency’s fundamental values and mission: “Magnum is a community of thought, a shared human quality, a curiosity about what is going on in the world, a respect for what is going on and a desire to transcribe it visually.” Today, the cooperative brings together sixty leading photographic members active all over the world.

In the context of a unique series of collaborative projects between the Cultural Village Foundation, Katara and Magnum Photos planned for 2013, ‘Magnum 65’ is the first exhibition and associated workshops run by Magnum Photographers, which presents the legacy and contemporary role of Magnum Photos’ historic and living archive in dialogue with Qatari photographic practitioners and the general public.

This exhibition outlines the history of Magnum Photos’ international photographic cooperative as a groundbreaking photography agency. It offers a linear and evolving account of Magnum’s six decades through the major events and key bodies of work, transcending the rift between photojournalism and artistic practice. Texts and quotes from the photographers add to the dimension of the experience behind images that have shaped the visual iconography and collective memory of this century.

The exhibition includes a selection of interactive large-scale projections of over 5,000 images from 81 photographers.

37

Breathe sophistication into your events.

Catering by Regency Halls brings together a collection of wonderful venues, innovative cuisines and seamless planning to create truly extraordinary occasions, whether catering for 20 or 2,000, every event is tailored to perfection.

From seminars to soirĂŠes and from a grand banquet to an intimate birthday celebration, whatever the theme or the scale of the event, our team can advise on every aspect crafting an unforgettable atmosphere and a lifelong memory.

www.regencyhalls.com Regency Halls I P.O. Box 22253 I Doha, Qatar Phone: + 974 4465 7776 I Fax: +974 4465 2226 I Email: sales@regencyhalls.com

Arts & Culture Listings RECOMMENDS

Museum Guide Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Education City 4402-8855 mathaf_info@qma.org.qa www.mathaf.org.qa Open: Tuesday to Sunday Closed: Mondays

Museum of Islamic Art & Park IAID Music Courses

Saturdays - Thursdays: IAID. Offering classes in Classical/Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. All music courses incorporate western notations and follows the London College of Music (LCM) syllabus. Examinations are held every six months at IAID by LCM examinees.

Non-IAID students are welcome. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589.

ONE OF A KIND MATHAF Forever Now

Tues 1 – Thurs 31: Mathaf. Features work from five leading modernist artists. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto Sat 26: Opera House. 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Chamber Music Series: Schubert Trio

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Mahler’s Second Symphony

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Mahler’s Fourth Symphony

WEEKLY

Thurs 10: Museum of Islamic Art. 6:00 p.m.

For more information call 4454-8193.

Sat 12: Opera House. 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Chamber Music Series: Poulenc Trio

Wed 23: Opera House. 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.

Thurs 31: Opera House. 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART A Course In Ruqa’a And Naskhi Scripts.

Sundays – Thursdays: Teachers Room- 2nd Floor. Calligraphy workshops at the museum for adults and educators to experience and learn the historic scripts from a renowned master calligrapher from 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information email educationmia@qma.org.qa.

The Corniche 4422-4444 infomia@qma.org.qa www.mia.org.qa Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

ALRIWAQ DOHA

Museum of Islamic Art Park 4452-5555 Open: Same days as Museum of Islamic Art

QMA Gallery

Building 10, Katara, Cultural VIllage 4408-1255 qmagallery@qma.org.qa Open: Monday--Saturday & Sunday Closed: Fridays

QF Radio 93.7FM Bolded programs in English Bright Morning: 7:00 a.m.

International News: 9:30 a.m.

Innovations: 10:00 a.m.

The Movie Guide: 12:00 p.m.

English News: 1:00 p.m.

Market Economics: 3:00 p.m.

Stars of Science: 3:00 p.m.

Green Tea: 4:00 p.m.

Therapeutic Fatwas: 4:00 p.m.

Voice of the Youth: 5:00 p.m.

Raising a Child: 5:00 p.m.

Corners: 6:00 p.m.

Fashion: 6:00 p.m.

Straight Up: 7:00 p.m.

Twitter: 7:00 p.m.

Legendary Artists: 8:00 p.m.

Sport Global: 9:00 p.m.

Sun-Thurs Daily Monday Thursday Daily Tuesday Wed Saturday Friday Thursday Monday Sun--Thurs Saturday Sunday Tuesday Daily Daily

39

Community

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month Cats In Qatar Adopt A Cat Ongoing: Cats in Qatar are an animal care group aimed at helping homeless/abandoned cats and kittens in Qatar. CIQ was founded in September 2010 and is entirely run by volunteers who donate their time and resources to helping out our feline friends.

They are a non-profit organization that operates through a foster-based network.

They do not have a shelter. For more information visit www.catsinqatar.com.

American Women’s Association Bridge

Thursdays: Location to be confirmed. Join the group and let the obsession take hold!

They welcome beginners and experts alike. Starts at 2:00 p.m. For more information visit www.awaqatar.com.

R ACTION Q ATA Al Khor Open Fly-in-Day

Fri 18: Al Khor Airport. A public event for all families to come enjoy a full day of parachutists shows, air shows, a closer look into various private aircrafts and the opportunity for a tour with the pilot. For more information visit www.actionprgroup.com.

OUT om K C E CH ening.c

p atarhap information! q . w w w e latest for th

Max Strom

Max Strom A Weekend Of Transformation Thurs 24-Sat 26: Yama Yoga Studios.

Max Strom teaches personal transformation and yoga worldwide and is known for deeply inspiring and impacting the lives of his students. For more information call 6617-5802 or visit www.yamayogastudios.com.

InterNations Networking Events Monthly: Various locations. InterNations’ aim is to help you, as an expatriate, in becoming part of the Qatar expat community and exploring the Qatari way of life in all its aspects. From enjoying the traditional ‘harees’ to celebrating the Powerboat Race for sailing enthusiasts from all over the globe.

For more information visit www.internations.org/qatar-expats.

41

Community

n o i t a c u d An E

By Tasbih Amin

Tasbih Amin is the winner of the ExxonMobil and Qatar Happening ‘Make Your Words Count’ Essay Contest 2013. We asked students at Northwestern University Qatar’s Journalism and Communications program to tell us what they love most about university life and how it’s shaping their future in 500 words or less. Congratulations Tasbih!

Contest winner Tasbih Amin

I

t’s funny how sometimes you have life figured out and believe your ‘plan’ will always turn out the way you had in mind, but instead you end up at crossroads.

I was in this funny situation four years ago.

I was a high school senior living in Saudi Arabia and I always thought I’d pursue a career in medicine and become a doctor like my parents. By the beginning of senior year, I realized that medicine was not what I wanted to do – and what a great time to figure that out, when everyone is sending college applications. I was lost. Luckily, I have the most amazing parents in the world who helped me figure out my passion, which is communicating ideas to people.

I always loved talking to people about ideas and cause a change some how within them. I went online and searched for any college majors that could be right for me and I came across Northwestern’s Communications program and knew right away that this is what I wanted to do.

So there I was, at the first day of orientation, feeling so overwhelmed by the different cultures and backgrounds that the Northwestern community had. My instinct was telling me to run because I felt so out place. However, this fear and self-doubt changed during Dean Margolis’s

speech when he asked us, the students of 2013, to stand up and gave us a round of applause for getting accepted to a prestigious university like Northwestern.

This made me feel better and more confident.

The first year was a little hard. Anything in life is hard at the beginning. What made freshmen year a little easier was the amazing staff and professors. I felt that everyone genuinely cared about each one of us. Whenever I was down, I would stop by my professors’ office to talk. They were thoughtful and always made me feel better, encouraging us to excel and push the limits in our work. We were able to create work that we never thought was possible for us to achieve.

On my third year at Northwestern, I finally reached a revelation that helped me leave the crossroads behind: writing stories. When I took the screen-writing class with Professor Sue Pak, I felt that I finally found my calling. The irony is that story-writing was my passion since I was eight, but I stopped in high school when I got busy with my SATs. But Professor Pak was determined to let me explore my imagination and pushed me to

“I’m extremely ecstatic to express myself and be recognized for it.”

-- Tasbih Amin express my feelings and emotions through writing my first script. I’m a very quiet person by nature and writing has become my way of communicating all the thoughts inside my head to others. For the first time, I felt happy with what I was doing and that’s why I’m seeking a career in writing. I believe this is what Northwestern University and Qatar Foundation are seeking; helping students explore their full potential and reach a point where they can be productive while being happy.

I’m so grateful to be a part of the Northwestern community, not only because I found my passion in life, but also because I made friends that I can’t imagine life without and who helped me grow as a person. People always say college life is the best – and now I know why.

43

Community

kes the stage

yab Panhwar ta

Muhammad Si

Attentive audience

Generation TEDx

By Rubina Singh Photography by Mohammed Al Suwaidi and Kevin Rodriges

Hot on the heels of the success of the recent TEDx Youth Conference held here in Doha, QH takes stock of the movement’s goals and vision with TEDxYouth@Doha founder Yasser Massood and chief curator Uzair Mohammad.

T

here is no dearth of visionaries in Doha, as in any other part of the world, but there certainly seems to be speed gathering beneath the wings of the younger generation here, that is taking the word ‘enterprising’ to the next level! Following the resounding success of last year’s first ever Tedx event organized locally in Qatar to commemorate United Nations Universal Children’s Day, this year saw curator and founder of TEDxYouth@Doha Yasser Masood and chief curator Uzair Mohammad lead a group of volunteers in another awesome repeat performance at Education City with an entirely different set of speakers and themes.

44

About TEDxYouth@Doha In keeping with TED’s tag line ‘Ideas Worth Spreading,’ Doha’s youth celebrated United Nations Universal Children’s Day with a round of talks titled #failbetter. While TEDxYouth Doha is not a registered organization and its only identity exists primarily on the web, the response received to their call for auditions for speakers had their inbox busting at the seams. In a world where recession has become an everyday term, this fact alone speaks volumes about how much this platform was needed in the Qatari community and how extensive its impact may well be in the future. At its very

first event, in 2011, TEDxYouth@Doha was able to involve an impressive array of speakers including Sheikha Hanadi, Vice Chairman of Nasser Bin Khaled Holding and H.E. Eng. Issa Al Mohannadi (former CEO of Msheireb Properties and current Minister of Tourism). This year, TEDxYouthDoha brought together a versatile posse of budding speakers, hand-picked from an expanding list of young people that believe in breaking the mould. Over 20 young people spoke about their experiences in three themed sessions titled, ‘ OMG-Observe’, ‘BRB-Experience’ and ‘ME-Overcome’.

While planning the event took almost six months, disability access and appeal across language and cultural barriers were inherent features of its character. With a team of 150 students and young professionals, local and international organizations supporting the event with sponsorship and an audience of almost 400 people, the event could by any standards be termed a success. With a bilingual, sustainable stage made from cardboard and most giveaways made from recycled material, it was indeed an event the United Nations would be proud to have its name associated with. A series of skill development workshops will follow throughout the year and it’s unique and outstanding theme, #failbetter, is already becoming a massive phenomenon.

regardless of whether you’re a middle-aged man suffering a job loss in Italy, an American coming to terms with life after redundancy, a Japanese suffering the consequences of the economic crisis in Tokyo, or a toddler crying over a scratched knee on a football field anywhere in the world, your best friend is going to give you the same advice and that is “Dude, do it again, and fail better” and that is a very universal message. At first glance, seeing a youth organization propagating a message about failure is extremely striking yet equally thought provoking and then you realize that the message is exactly what each one of us uses to console and inspire our dear ones in the face of a hardship, however real or imaginary it might be. So that’s really the thrust behind it.

Talk Back

UM: There is also a larger reason why we picked the theme and that is because there is a cultural tendency to let the fear of failure hold us back from stepping out of our comfort zone. By cultural, I do not mean only Arab culture. This is a predominant and common feature of the Asian and Mid-Eastern psyche and for society to move forward, that initial leap is very crucial. In countries that we hold as role models, Sweden, Denmark, Canada etc. you don’t hear ‘entrepreneurship’ or ‘innovation’ as buzzwords because these things are accepted as normal forms of improvement both on an individual and a societal level. But all over Asia and the Middle-East, in India, Pakistan, China, there is a cultural tendency to worry about failure and what if things go wrong.

Event curators, Uzair Mohammed and Yasser Masood give us a backstage peek into the significance of this year’s unusual theme and sustainability.

QH: Where do you see TEDxYouthDoha heading in the future?

UM: We’re trying to cultivate a culture of leadership amongst our group of volunteers. By now, we have eleven teams working towards the cause and they are all being led by young professionals, all of whom, including ourselves, are volunteers, and the event is completely non-profit. We have a core team of 60 members and 11 teams in all, taking care of everything from logistics to copy-righting.

Last year while we were organizing the first event, we realized that we didn’t have a lot of time and only a limited number of people, but we tried to cultivate them in such a way that at least half of them have now taken on leadership positions in this year’s event. The beauty of it is that if the youth are collectively developing the idea for the youth, it will remain attractive and sustainable.

QH: How did you decide on # failbetter as the title for this year’s session?

YM: Choosing this as our theme was an attempt at engaging youth, in an innovative manner. We felt that in this theme we could find a universal message that

so many things. I remember at one point I had about 5 or 6 pages in my diary filled with phrases and suggestions from every person I would speak to. Whether it was a person I was interviewing to be on the team or whether it was someone I trust or someone I came across, I was forever picking their brains. At the same time we were literally dissecting the iTunes playlist as well, dwelling on every line from every song we had ever heard in search of the right title, so you can imagine the loads of paper that we filled with everybody’s suggestions and from that we started crossing off what didn’t seem to be relevant. Eventually we all zoomed in to #failbetter as a positive message, stated in an innovative way, to an audience that would understand it, and importantly, would not require translation! That particular meeting where we decided on it, was actually a six hours long with a myriad of ideas scribbled on stacks and stacks of paper.

QH: Can you give us a glance at the future?

YM: We’re here to shake things up and at least bring things that youngsters have probably never thought about, or have been longing for and nobody’s decided to actually fulfill that need. So do follow us online and see where we’ll take you.

QH: Was it difficult to arrive at a unanimous choice for the theme?

UM: The best moment in organizing a conference is the moment that you come across the theme that you and everyone working on the project love and everybody’s eyes light up in the room and they start high-fiving each other saying “Oh my gosh that is absolutely…WOW!”.

So where it came from is hard to say, but originally, we picked up the idea from a Simon Becket quote, “Ever Tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again.

Fail better.”

To be honest, I don’t remember how it came together because we were exploring

hi Speaker Tejas Kum

ulaziz Al Hot

Speaker Abd

ar

This year’s conference saw a packed house Check out www.tedxyouthdoha.com to find out more about future events and how to get involved.

45

Community

Money Matters

By John Hunt

QH examines Islamic versus ‘conventional’ banking – what’s the difference?

T

here’s a ‘buzz phrase’ – in use both within Qatar and the Islamic world at large – and in non-Muslim countries.

That phrase is ‘Islamic Banking’. Here we take a brief look at what it is, how it differs from ‘conventional’ banking and whether it’s a product type that’s right for you.

What Is Islamic Banking?

Unsurprisingly, Islamic Banking is a method of managing your finances that is compliant with Islamic (or Sharia), law. For that reason alone, it’s becoming 46

more and more popular among Muslims who want to express every part of their lives through their faith.

The basis for all Islamic Banking is that it operates without interest which is not permitted in Sharia. Instead, money must be used in a productive way and wealth can only be generated through legitimate trade and investment. Islamic Banking uses various principles such as Ijara (leasing), Musharaka (partnership) and Wakala (agency agreement). These principles are used to develop Sharia-compliant financial products, such as savings accounts and home finance.

The absence of the payment of interest (‘riba’) in Islamic Banking is the key factor that differentiates it from conventional banks. However, there

ector

A Booming S

It’s fair to say then that we’re dealing with a growth industry, due both to the ‘PR-related’ factors mentioned above and favourable demographics. There are 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide, and this number is expected to increase by 35 per cent in the next 20 years. It is worth pointing out that Islamic Finance is not the preserve of Muslims alone – anyone can invest in Islamic Banking.

What is Islamic banking?

are other important differences.

Chief among these are that Islamic Banks’ funding, profits and business investments cannot come from businesses that are considered unlawful under Sharia, i.e. companies that deal in interest, gambling, alcohol, speculation, tobacco and other commodities contrary to Islamic values.

If one were to use a single word to describe Islamic Banking it would be this: ethical.

The whole premise of Islamic Banking is to provide a way to conduct finance in a manner that is ethical and socially responsible. Trade, entrepreneurship and risk-sharing are encouraged and these are the financial principles that underpin Islamic finance.

Conventional banking – deservedly so in the opinion of this writer – has taken a severe battering not only financially, but in terms of how it is perceived. Sadly, it’s not just the banks themselves that have been damaged: the majority view is that

reckless lending as well as fraudulent and unethical trading by conventional banks has been responsible for a good deal of the turbulent economic conditions that the world markets have witnessed over the last few years. There are arguments that if a greater proportion of global financial activity had been conducted in a Sharia-compliant fashion, then the problems we are currently experiencing might well have been mitigated.

This is offset, however, by the fact that while Islamic finance may have come a long way in the past few decades, but its total asset base of $1 trillion is still less than one per cent of total global banking worth. The Islamic financial services industry has the potential to manage assets worth $4.4 billion, growing at 10 per cent annually, while the actual size of the industry today is just $1.13 billion worldwide, according to the Global Islamic Finance Report 2011.

The disparity requires to be addressed.

It is also worth pointing out that Islamic Banking offers the full suite of products you would expect to find at a conventional bank – current, deposit and savings accounts; mortgages, loans, credit cards, insurance (known as Takaful) and so on. While we note that Islamic Finance – albeit growing rapidly – is still ‘small fry’ in a global sense, but in Qatar itself, it represents 10% of the total banking market, a not insignificant number. Similar percentages are replicated throughout the Islamic world.

Islamic finance is widely available in Qatar and consumers have a real choice about how they manage their finances. Shariacompliant finance is not for everyone, but by choosing an Islamic bank, Muslims have the peace of mind that their money is working for them and in line with their faith.

Despite the small size of the sector, Islamic Banks (especially in those countries such as Qatar, with robust economies) often have significant capitalizations and so the risk that your money is not safe is miniscule, especially when Qatar Central Bank is content to oversee its banking sector and get involved if need be, as it has done in the recent past.

Perhaps the best advice (and I am no financial advisor) is to pop into a branch of an Islamic Bank and see if Shariacompliant banking offers the right solution for you. There is plenty of choice in Qatar when it comes to Islamic banks – Google is your friend!

47

unbity Listings Clu idsm Com K RECOMMENDS

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group 6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

American Women’s Association 5511-8085 www.awaqatar.com

Doha Players

4447-4911 Search ‘Doha Players Lovers’ Group on Facebook

ART OF ABUNDANT LIVING Raw Food Classes

Mondays: AAL Villa near TV Roundabout in Madinat Khalifa South. Learn to make healthy and life-giving foods. QR 175 per class, 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 5580-0395.

ONE OF A KIND LADIES OF HARLEY Saturday Ride

Sat 5: Harley Davidson Shop. The Ladies of Harley meet the first Saturday of each month at 6:00 a.m. at the dealership on Salwa Road. Any female Harley-Davidson enthusiast, either rider or passenger, who enjoys socializing and becoming involved with like-minded women can become a member. For more information visit www.facebook.com/groups/76296760681/.

STARRENE FOSTER A Week of Modern Dance

Sun 6 – Sat 12: Yama Yoga Studios.

Intensive for young adults. For more information call 6617-5802 or visit www.yamayogastudios.com.

SIX SENSES SPA Charity Run/Walk

Sat 19: Al Dana Island. Join their official charity mini-marathon event to raise money for people in need. Starts at 2:30 p.m., QR 50 minimum donation per person. For more information call 4425-6999.

48

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Visiting Practitioner Shivani Aldalja Wed 23–Sun 27: Six Senses Spa. Shivani is regarded as one of the leading new-age well-being consultants in the Middle East and the Gulf peninsula. Find our which colour your Aura has, which disturbances are there and how you can overcome them. Align your chakras and truly relax and unwind. For more information call 4425-6999.

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 www.qncs.org

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

EVERY WEEK

Silver Dhow Association

ART OF ABUNDANT LIVING Healthy Eating for Families Series

Turkish Women’s Association

Mondays: Calgary International Preschool.

Invest one morning a week and learn fabulous ways to delight your family with delicious, nutritious fun food. Open to all mums in Qatar. QR 650 for the series.

9:00 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 5580-0395.

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

4435-2598

www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

Search ‘Canadians In Qatar’ Group on Facebook to join the community

Kids Club

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month Doha Dolphins Learn To Swim Daily: Various pools.

A non-profit organization that aims to raise water-safety awareness and promote the importance of learning how to swim in the community through approachable and quality-based swimming classes.

For more information visit www.qmotion.com.qa.

International Centre For Music Ballet Lessons

Aspire Active Exercise For Children

January–June: Aspire Academy. Babies sensory motor classes, mother and toddler classes, girls and boys classes and lots more. Membership required. For more information visit www.aspire.qa.

S T U N E S 4 TO T

Weekly: The International Centre for Music.

They are open on Saturdays 11:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m., Sundays – Wednesdays 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4467-1354.

Music Classes

Sundays-T hur sdays: Various locations. A fun and interesting way to introduce babies and toddlers to rhythm and movement. For more information visit ww w.tunes4totsqatar.com.

Café Ceramique Painting

OUT om K C E CH ening.c

p atarhap information! q . w w w e latest for th

Daily: Café Ceramique, The Mall. Eat first or paint first? Kids will love creating their own art and taking it away with them. For more information call 4456-1100.

49

Kids Club

Childcare In Qatar

By Charlie Sands Photography by Jessie Palanca Location: Busy Bees Nursery

Finding the right place for your little ones in Doha doesn’t need to be complicated read our no-nonsense guide to help you get started.

S

o you’ve packed up the suitcases, stopped your direct debits and set off half way around the globe with babies or toddlers in tow to start your new life. Even if you did find the time to do some research before you left, you’ll probably find that once you’re in Doha, it’s a lot easier to start the process of finding somewhere or someone you trust to look after your little ones.

Location

1

Although seemingly big at first, Doha is a fairly small city once you get to know you way around. That said you will probably want to consider location, in relation to where you work or live, at the top of your priority list as the traffic can be gruelling at the wrong time of day, namely school start and finish times (7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.) and after 4:00 p.m. when most offices close for the day.

50

Language And Approach

2

With nurseries spread across most of the city, you should be able to find at least one, possibly several viable options, that are near enough to where you are. So the next thing to consider will be what style of nursery and what language you would like to be the primary language spoken to your child at school.

Given the myriad of communities here it would be fair to say there is probably at least one nursery following the style and language of your home country – from Egypt to Canada, India to the Philippines and plenty more in between.

For those with pre-schoolers who will go into the international school system of their home country in the next academic year, then choosing a nursery that follows that curriculum (British, U.S.A., French, Indian), might make the transition to big

school a bit easier. But language is likely to be the main driving factor behind your decision. Do you want him to be spoken to in French, English (U.S.A., British etc.), Filipino, Urdu, Arabic or more than one language as at home?

Nursery Guide

Research

3

In terms of information, then there are several useful tools on the web at your disposal. The Doha Mums (www.dohamums.com) nursery guide has a wealth of information, with listings on 31 nurseries currently, though they seem to add more fairly frequently.

The website also has a useful Nursery Quick Guide link which enables you to sort by location, the country of management of the nursery, language of instruction, as well as other useful options such as whether drop-off care is available and whether they take infants. The emphasis is on Western-style nurseries and is not comprehensive, so head to Qatar’s Yellow pages website www.qatcom.com, if you want more options. There are also plenty of forums out there if you want to ask questions of others who have been there and done that. Try: www.qatarliving.com, www.iloveqatar.net, or the Qatar pages on www.expatarrivals.com.

Visiting And Practicalities

4

Once you’ve got a handful of possibilities then it’s a good idea to go and visit. Most of them have an opendoor policy and provided you avoid busy times of day like drop-off and pick-up times, then they are usually happy for you to drop in anytime in the week, Sunday to Thursday.

They do have differing opening hours so it’s worth checking first to make sure they are open. Unlike in many countries, as a parent, most nurseries here will expect you to provide all nappies, wipes, any creams, spare clothing and most of all, food and a cup (to be re-filled with water) for your child. Some nurseries have a finger food/ cold snacks-only policy, though will heat up food for the younger children on request.

Petits Pas Starfish Lane 1 Apple Tree Nursery Busy Bees Nursery French Nursery Rising Stars Kindergarten Little Angels Qatar Cocorico Nursery Central English Speaking Kindergarten Sunbeam Kindergarten StarFish Lane Kids Little Academy Nursery Honey Pot Nursery School

Other Options: Choosing A Nanny

5

There really is no easy way to find a nanny and the safest option, though not the cheapest, seems to be to go through an agency to hire a nanny. Some people search for a nanny online and come up with the right person first time round.

But there are plenty of tales of those who have had bad experiences and don’t want to repeat them.

Expect to pay QR 1,200 and up for a nanny, less for a live-in who is getting food and board, more for someone who lives outside and comes during the day-time. Nannies can also double as cooks and cleaners and be a fantastic help to a busy family, but it’s worth discussing their duties when you are negotiating their contract so expectations are met on both sides.

Not Too Late To Change Your Mind

6

Whatever your decision, nothing is final and if you do change your mind there are always other nannies and other nurseries that you might find are better suited to you and your children.

Voice Of Experience

Becky Wender and Harriet Becky Wender, from the U.K., mother of Harriet aged three, who goes to Starfish Lane 1. Becky also has a nanny/home help from the Philippines.

“I would say to people to go and visit nurseries and to get on the waiting lists early, and if you’re looking for a nanny I would highly recommend transferring sponsorship from someone who is here. Not only do you save QR 10,000 in agency fees, but you’ve actually met them and interviewed them. We also interviewed the family our nanny came from too, so had a really rounded picture of her. She is fabulous!”

Soumya Ann Varghese

Soumya Ann Varghese, from India, mother of a 2 ½ year-old daughter, who goes to Petits Pas nursery: “My first priority was nurseries that take in children for the maximum time possible.

Next most important thing was the teacher/student ratio. I’ve had relatives send their kids to places packed with children and theirs were sick practically the year round. I was pretty much flexible about everything else.”

51

Kids Club

g n i d l i BuA Fit Family

By Jacqueline Bodnar

You’re probably already aware that Qatar has a problem – a rather large one. As a nation we are becoming more overweight and unfit than ever before: too many hours spent in front of the television, computer and other forms of electronic entertainment and not enough moving and grooving. Now is the time to nip this problem in the bud once and for all and get your family on the road to fitness!

52

Kids Club Why Fitness First

i

“Leading a life of fitness can help people and families to avoid the trend toward being overweight and obese. Extra weight is a leading risk factor for heart disease, diabetes and some cancers,” explains Dianne Fiedler, a registered nurse and the assistant director of nursing at Stratford University in Washington D.C. “Unlike age or gender, being overweight or obese can be avoided or modified.”

In addition, exercise decreases the risk of heart disease, with benefits that include strengthening the heart muscle, increasing oxygenation of the body, lowering blood pressure and boosting energy levels to accomplish everyday activities. If you’re thin and think that it gives you a pass on needing to include physical activity in your daily life, you are mistaken. Thinness does not always equal being fit. Plus, you still need to follow a fitness plan in order to have heart health, muscles and strong bones.

what time of year it is, there are possibilities for both indoor and outdoor activities that can help families get fit together.

How Much Activity

q

It’s important to try to fit some physical activity into your schedule every day. But doing so may actually be a lot easier than you realize.

Here’s how much physical activity the average person should get each day: •

•

“People who exercise tend to make healthier choices for meals and snacks,” adds Fiedler.

“Instead of the quick-fix candy bar, those looking to lead a more fit life will choose fresh fruit or a granola bar to snack on.”

Making Time

o

One of the biggest excuses that people have for not engaging in regular exercise or physical activity is that they don’t have the time. Sure, we are busy. We often juggle more things in our schedule than need be. But nothing is more important than the health of you and your family, so prioritizing all your commitments and making fitness a priority is essential.

“Our motto is that everyone has time to fit fitness into their busy lives,” says Christa Dalakis, co-owner and personal trainer at Breakaway Fitness, in the United States. “It’s how you choose to spend your time. When parents are active, then most likely they’ll find their kids will want to be active. Make fitness something you do together.”

There are a lot of fitness activities that families can do together, including biking, hiking, taking walks, playing sports, going to the park, playing chase around the house, ice skating, Frisbee and swimming. No matter

Children ages 6 to 17. Children need to get at least one hour per day of physical activity. This can include brisk walking, running, biking, swimming, etc. They should have three days per week that include vigorous activity.

They should also have three days a week that include muscle and bonebuilding activities, such as gymnastics, push-ups, jumping rope and running.

Adults 18 and up. Adults in this age group need at least 150 minutes of exercise per week of aerobic activity, such as brisk walking. If you will be running or jogging, you will only need 75 minutes per week. Also, it is recommended that you do musclebuilding activities, such as lifting weights or doing yoga at least two days per week.

Be sure to keep the activity age-appropriate, so that you are not expecting young children to do something they are not yet physically able to do. Good options for a family may be to take a bike ride or nature walk together to a particular destination, stopping to have a rest and healthy snack before riding back.

Choosing A Club

r

Many people join health and fitness clubs because of the variety of options that such clubs provide for the entire family. These include Zumba, dancing, sports, spin classes, aquatic programs, mind and body programs, group exercise and more.

fitness club for the family. These include asking yourself a few questions, such as: Is there an ability to progress through skills throughout the duration of the program?

Are other programs offered at the same location?

•

Can multiple members of the family all find something to enjoy simultaneously?

•

How large is the class?

•

Will we receive specialized attention?

•

What are the qualifications of the instructor?

At many clubs, there is something for every person in the family to enjoy, giving the family a single destination as they all get fit, doing their own activity of choice. One ride to your local health club may give the whole family an hour of much-needed physical activity, while everyone does their own thing, or some choose to share an activity. Ideally, everyone should have some input as to the types of physical activity that the family does together, since this will get them more excited about doing it.

Going Forward

u

Now is the perfect time to make family fitness a priority. Call a meeting, share the reasons why it’s so important to become a fit family and get feedback on what everyone would like to do to make it happen.

Making exercise a priority in your family will help create a healthier unit that experiences less stress and more wellness.

That’s always worth the time and energy and you’ll be creating great memories and habits that will last a lifetime!

Here are a few tips for how to decide on a 53

Kids Club Listings RECOMMENDS

REGISTER E NeklLyIN OWe 5 newsletter

for the www.qatarhappening.com

DOHA MUMS Toddler Playgroup

GEORGE V SPA Zumba Class & Pool Usage

Thursdays: Dance Studio. 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. on the first floor of Beverly Hills Tower, West Bay. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

EVERY WEEK DOHA MUMS Playgroup for Kids Born in 2009

Sundays: Abu Hamour area. Inviting all mums of 2009 toddlers to come and join in for a play, coffee and snacks every Sunday from 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

FUN CITY Bubbles Playgroup

Mondays: City Center Mall. 2010 bubs are invited for some fun playtime every second Monday. 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL Pool Sessions Mondays: Pool and beach. 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. The little ones will enjoy the shaded pool and the older kids can explore Doha’s longest private beach. RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

54

IAID Hip-Hop

Tuesdays & Thursdays: IAID. A popular high-energy urban class that uses the latest music combined with movement and choreography inspired by today’s hottest Hip-Hop tunes. For more information call 4432-0974.

RAYS REEF Fun Time

Tuesdays and Sundays: Royal Plaza.

Located on the 2nd floor from 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday and from 4:00 p.m. on Sundays.

It’s a fun and clean area with lots of options for your kids to choose from, suitable for different age groups. RSVP is required. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

DOHA MUMS Mums and Babies Playgroup

Wednesdays: Al Waab area. Share your experiences with other mums while the babies play and you have a tea! 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

Wednesdays: Ain Khalid. Bring your toddlers along for a casual playgroup!

10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

DOHA MUMS Parachute Play Wednesdays: Al Waab area. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. Parachute play is a positive co-operative group activity which can be used for different games for ages 18 months to 6 years and is both educational and fun. It’s noncompetitive play and teaches agility, body movements, co-ordination and teamwork.

Tea and coffee plus snacks will be available afterwards for the mums. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

ACS SCHOOL Arabic Reading Group for Children Saturdays: Doha Mums Library. This group is suitable for kids who can read and understand simple sentences in Arabic. 1:00 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

IAID Modern Jazz for Kids Sat, Sun, Mon & Wednesdays: IAID. Designed to train students to professional standard with technical exercises and exciting routines. For more information call 4432-0974.

Food & Dining

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Grand Heritage Doha Maki Mania Sundays - Thursdays: Blue Restaurant.

QR 165 per person inclusive of unlimited Maki and Miso soup. 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m.

For more information call 4445-5555.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Exclusive Dinner With Chef Gordon Ramsay

Sun 6: Gordon Ramsay Doha and Opal by Gardon Ramsay Doha. Famous Chef Ramsay visits The St. Regis Doha for an exclusive evening of culinary delights. For the occasion, he will design exclusive menus at Gordon Ramsay Doha and Opal by Gordon Ramsay Doha. Do not miss the unique opportunity to meet with legendary chef Ramsay! For more information call 4446-0105.

c Club The Diplomati BBQ Donut

8 Fridays & Saturdays: Set up for you take will ut Don people, the BBQ y out on the West Bay shores to enjo le unparalleled views of the city whi erience. savouring an exquisite dining exp 2 hours, for 800 QR r, QR 450 per hou 180 per QR .

200 QR s, min 30 additional g soft udin incl on pers per 220 QR on, pers more For . p.m 0 drinks. 8:00 a.m. till 10:0 70 4-74 448 call tion informa

OUT om K C E CH ening.c

p atarhap information! q . w w w e latest for th

Holiday Villa Doha Double-Boiled Soup Promotion Thurs 3 – Thurs 31: D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. From QR 38. For more information call 4408-4888.

Ritz-Carlton Doha Winter Menu Tues 1 – Thurs 31: Porcini. A warm Mediterranean atmosphere with new and fresh culinary treasures from the inspiring Chef Ricardo Acquista. For more information call 4484-8000.

57

Food & Dining

QH EATS

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

tch We sample the ca

of the day

I

t’s lunch-time on a work-day as we head over to Red Lobster on C-Ring Road near Al Sadd, mouths watering for some juicy Maine crustaceans. The restaurant is less busy than we expect for the lunch hour rush and we’re quickly ushered to a booth and given menus. The décor is dark inside with wood and nautical details evoking a sense of being on the North Atlantic seacoast – a very strange feeling when you’re in the middle of Doha.

Our server is pleasant and prompt, answering our questions about the menu items as we have a look at the options. The prices are significantly higher than some of the other sit-down chain restaurants that populate the Al Sadd and Salwa Road areas, so my expectations are raised for fresh, high-quality shellfish. Our server tells us that the lobster they serve is imported alive, direct from North America and kept in a holding tank until cooked. He’s not kidding – the lobster tank on display in the main area is huge and makes me wonder if they have even more out back for the amount of seafood served here per day.

We decide to share two appetizers – the lobster nachos (which sound too interesting a concept to pass up) and the lobster pizza, plus one main course – a full portion of the Chef’s Signature lobster and shrimp pasta. The nachos and pizza arrive simultaneously and we tuck in. The pizza is a nice thin crust job layered with tomatoes, onions, cheese and morsels of lobster. At first I think it’s lacking from having no sauce but quickly realize that the flavour of the lobster would have been overshadowed by a condiment. The nachos are a bit of a mixed bag. One 58

Red Lobster has come to Doha. We sample its briny bounty to see if the North American seafood chain can stand the heat of the desert.

of my colleagues loves them, the other can take them or leave them, but I’m not sold on them. The cheese is a goopy mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack and is the consistency of a cream sauce. It doesn’t mix well with the flavour of the lobster meat and when I bite down into a jalapeno it’s a flavour combination that I don’t think I’d go back to any time soon.

Our order of pasta arrives and we ask our server to bring us some extra Parmesan cheese to top it off. Filled with plump shrimp, pieces of lobster, tomatoes and asparagus on a bed of linguine with butter sauce, it smells amazing and the portion is generous enough for three people to share. The shrimp are nice but not de-veined as well as they could be and the vegetables are crisp, but the sauce needs a bit more ‘oomphf’. Some added garlic to the watery butter would have made it more flavourful. The lobster meat is a real disappointment, with only a few fuller pieces of tail and claw meat the rest are small flakes and scraps. In fact the same can be said about the quantity and quality of the lobster on all of the dishes we tried. Overall, aside from the pizza, what we sampled was a bit of a disappointment.

However, the service was top-notch – our glasses were never empty and our server kept bringing us plates of hot cheese and herb biscuits fresh from the oven which were delicious. I would definitely return to Red Lobster to try some of their other menu items – in particular the seafood feast platter with buttered lobster tail, snow crab legs in the shell and shrimp scampi. This kind of fare is more what they’re known for, but I wouldn’t recommend branching out too far on the appetizer menu.

Chef’s Signature Lobster and Shrimp Pasta

The Lobster Nachos

About Red Lobster Location: C-Ring Road near Blue Salon Timings: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. daily Average Meal Price: QR 55 – QR 170,

depending on size amount of lobster content Smoking: No Contact Info: 4444-1066

Food & Dining

Sweet Substitutions

By Gerald Tan Photography by Jessie Palanca

We know the adage ‘New Year, New You’ is more than a bit over-played but it’s still no reason to break those healthy resolutions. Gerald Tan welcomes 2013 with a wealth of sugar-free baking options.

Chewy peanut butter honey cookies

60

A

fter the party comes the hangover.

Or in my case, following the dessert delirium, starts the dieting.

Ah yes, the new year. As I come off the sugar-high and excesses of the holiday season, I promise to be better about eating.

I won’t have that fourth scoop of gelato (for breakfast). I’ll stick to just two slices of pie.

No chocolate before 2:00 p.m.!

The question is: why? I know my resolutions are so personally unrealistic they’ll be abandoned before the ides of the month. Some of us just aren’t good about controlling the impulse of desire that accompanies such abnegation. The solution then isn’t to relinquish the sweets, but to make them more benign. One way is to cut out the refined sugar while abstaining from artificial sweeteners.

Don’t Sacrifice Taste Fruits tend to be a sterling replacement.

Bananas, cooked apples and pears, frozen orange juice concentrate will all sweeten a dessert and provide the necessary bulk provided by sugar. Yet, a fruit is often unwelcome. Case in point, I wouldn’t want mango pulp in a chocolate cake or mashed banana in lemon mousse. Hence we turn to other natural substitutes that add sweetness without leaving too intrusive a flavour. Here are a few: Honey: History’s primary sweetening agent before the commercial production of sugar, this miraculous substance never expires.

Because honey is so viscous, it won’t water down the dessert. Depending on the variety used, it will also impart some fragrant, floral notes. If baking, use roughly 3/4 cups of honey to replace a cup of sugar.

Maple Syrup: Not just a pancake topping, maple syrup will add quite a bit of depth to the flavour of your dessert.

Despite its ubiquity, maple syrup remains a rather expensive product. Using a whole cup of it in breads or cookies might seem extravagant, but it’s delicious, nutrientpacked and quite worthwhile. For baking, also use 3/4 cups of maple syrup for a cup of sugar; but be warned the overall consistency will be more watery unless you cut down other liquids.

Agave Nectar: Agave nectar comes from the same plant that’s fermented and made into that famous Mexican libation. It’s not as thick as honey but just as sweet. No longer seen as the new kid on the block, agave nectar sits lower on the glycemic index, so it doesn’t spike blood sugar levels as quickly as sugar. The general rule of thumb for baking is to replace a cup of sugar with 2/3 cups of agave nectar. Also be mindful of its more liquid consistency.

Stevia: The most potent sweetener of them all, a teaspoon of the powdered or liquid form of this leaf native to the Americas replaces a whole cup of refined sugar! If baking with stevia, you’ll need to add much more volume to the dessert with unsweetened applesauce or yogurt, lest it ends up too dry.

For a foray into sugar-free baking, try these peanut butter honey cookies. They take no more than half an hour from start to finish.

The recipe is a bit of a cheat because peanut butter is sweet, but hey, baby steps. Plus I love how the honey adds such character to the cookie. One bite convinces that scratching out sugar won’t diminish the sensation -- it might even fool the very best of dessert junkies.

Comments, feedback, tips or Master Paddington’s not-so-secret recipes gladly welcome. Do share how the peanut butter honey cookies turn out. I’m on Twitter @GeraldoTan

That’s how the cookie

e that using th Please note e th in s te sugar substitu ven is still proportions gi diabetics. for NOT suitable

crumbles

Gerald goes for a dunk

Peanut Butter Honey Cookies Ingredients: ½ cup honey ½ cup creamy peanut butter 55 gm butter, softened 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 ¼ cup flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda ½ teaspoon salt Implements: 1 mixing bowl 1 baking tray 1 spatula 1 fork Instructions:

Heat oven to 180 degrees Celcius. In a bowl, mix together honey, peanut butter and butter. When smooth, add egg and vanilla -- mix well. Add the flour, baking powder and salt to form a soft dough.

Roll into balls the width of a 50 dirham coin and place on baking sheet. Use a fork to flatten gently and press a crosshatch pattern on each cookie. Bake until lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.

Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool.

Store in an airtight container.

61

Food & Dining Listings RECOMMENDS

WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER

Sundays - Thursdays: Cucina. Choose from 6 entrees, 6 mains and 5 desserts.

QR 85 per person. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information call 4419-6100.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Sundays - Thursdays: Mykonos. A choice of a starter, main course and dessert, ready to be enjoyed both in the tempting outdoor terrace overlooking the gardens and the pool, or the indoor cozy lounge area. From QR 90. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4096 or 4484-4444.

W DOHA FOUR SEASONS DOHA

Daily: Seasons Tea Lounge. Enjoy the finest scones, tea sandwiches and mouthwatering sweets. 3:00 pm till 6:30 pm. QR 135 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

BUSINESS LUNCH THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Sundays - Thursdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy a different 3-course meal every day. QR 100 per person. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

FOUR SEASONS DOHA

Saturdays - Thursdays: Nusantao. From a two course to a six course lunch – Chef Kato’s exclusive Bento Box. From QR 75.

Il Teatro. In a rush? Why not try our ‘Piatti Unici’ which literally means ‘one-dish’ meal, a complete lunch with a perfect balance between health and taste.

QR 99. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

HILTON DOHA

Sundays – Thursdays: La Sahtaine. Enjoy a 3 course meal overlooking the waterfront for QR 88.12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Daily: Blue Restaurant. Three course set menu for QR 95. Guaranteed to be served in 30 minutes. 12:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

62

HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA

Sundays-Thursdays: D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. Choose from over 20 delicious Chinese & Japanese sets.

11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4888.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA

Tuesdays – Sundays: Chopsticks Restaurant. An exceptional Asian threecourse daily changing set menu served in 59 minutes for QR 59, otherwise, you get it for free! 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

LA CIGALE

Daily: Le Central. Savour three choices of light and healthy appetizers, expertly designed main dishes and irresistible desserts, QR 150. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information call 4428-8772.

HILTON DOHA

Sundays – Thursdays: Trader Vic’s. Choose 3 main dishes and 1 side dish for QR 95.

Served within 45 minutes. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3118.

Saturdays - Thursdays: Market. Choose your starter, main course and dessert and savour chef Vongerichten’s signature dishes in only 30 minutes! 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89 per person. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Saturdays - Thursdays: Aroma. Indulge in the most delicate business lunch in Doha for only QR 90 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325.

SHERATON DOHA

Sundays – Thursday: La Veranda. Italian homemade delights. 3-course lunch served within 45 minutes, QR 99. From 12:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

W DOHA

Saturdays - Thursdays: Spice Market.

Choose your favourite starter, main course and dessert. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

QR 89. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.

ORYX ROTANA

Daily: The Cellar. 3-course set menu including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 89 per person guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information call 4402-3333.

MĂ–VENPICK TOWER & SUITES Sundays - Thursdays: Wok Mee Noodle House. The three-course menu spoils you.

QR 85 per person including drinks. Get a 15% discount with the MTS membership card. Free membership with every reservation. For more information 4496-6600.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA Daily: Aramede. QR 89. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information cal 4408-7777.

AFTERNOON TEA SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Daily: Al Jalsa. Low-calorie sweets and healthy treats make an appearance at afternoon tea the Ritz-Carlton style. QR 135 per person. 2:30 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

HILTON DOHA Daily: Ya Hala. Choose from Classic English High Tea for QR 89, or Classic Oriental High Tea for QR 99. 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Daily: Kufic. Take a break and enjoy finger sandwiches and home-made mini-pastries with your choice of tea or coffee for QR 75 per person. 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.

Also enjoy desserts in a cupcake from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Daily: Three Sixty Restaurant. Sunset High Tea, 4:00 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. for QR 135. For more information call: 4444-6500.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Sundays - Saturdays: Victoria Lounge.

Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the traditional Victorian Tea Lounge. Traditional afternoon high tea or Oriental high tea for QR 135 per tea stand. Afternoon tea from 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. Gluten free delights are also available. For more information call 4445-5555.

63

Food & Dining Listings PROMOTIONS

ONE OF A KIND

Daily: Tea Garden. Afternoon High Tea from 3:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. Selection of finger sandwiches, pastries and freeflowing tea or coffee at QR 85 per person, QR 110 including a glass of bubbly. Live entertainment from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. except Saturdays. Open from 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4890/4484-4444.

CHOWKING

GRAND HYATT DOHA Argentinean Beef Dinner

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

SIZZLING HOT POT

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Daily: La Mer Restaurant. Taste the culinary treats and delights of Executive Pastry Chef Jerome Bertoumieux with a spectacular view. 2:30 p.m. till 5:00 p.m.

The recently opened Lobby Pastry Shop is perfect for quick bites and sweet treats.

For more information call 4484-8000.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA

Daily: Savor. Afternoon Tea, 25% discount from 3:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

ORYX ROTANA

Daily: Sky Lounge. Experience a delectable afternoon tea in elegant surroundings while enjoying the sounds of a live pianist. 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

NEW RESTAURANTS SOUQ WAQIF BOUTIQUE HOTELS

The Courtyard: Al Najada Boutique Hotel.

An informal café. The Dining Room: Al Najada Boutique Hotel. A fine dining a la carte restaurant. Al Canteen: Arumaila Boutique Hotel. Comfort food at its best!

The Terrace Lounge: Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel. Indoor and outdoor lounging space.

East: Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel. A casual international bistro. Al Mataam: Musheireb Boutique Hotel. Middle Eastern restaurant.

Al Matbakh: Arumaila Boutique Hotel.

A grill restaurant on the roof. The Drawing Room: Al Jasra Boutique Hotel. Meet here for drinks. Argan: Al Jasra Boutique Hotel.

Moroccan Restaurant. For more information call 4433-6666.

64

Daily: From piping hot asado siopao, braised beef, ox-tail in peanut sauce and crispy fried chicken to cool, refreshing halo halo, Chowking delivers the best taste at the best price. For more information call one of their three branches. Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Saad: 4431-4411, Al Khor: 4411-8816/8817.

Daily: The first of its kind in the Middle East, Sizzling Hot Pot restaurant in the Holiday Villa Hotel offers visitors the unique dining experience of cooking your own meal at your table’s very own hot pot. Choose from a selection of marinated meats, fresh seasoned seafood, crisp vegetables, rice and a tantalizing array of sauces and soup broths. For more information or to make a reservation call 4411-5225 or 4411-5335.

HILTON DOHA Porcini Month

Tues 1 – Thurs 31: La Sahtaine. A decadent, five course menu featuring dishes such as Grade A grilled Angus fillet with porcini and black truffles in a red reduction, accompanied with chestnut and roast potato mash and green asparagus. QR 290 including a welcome beverage. For more information call 4423-3333.

HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Grilled Lamb Provencale With Crusted Herb & Pesto Sauce Thurs 3 – Thurs 31: 11th Floor Contemporary Restaurant. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. (Closed every Saturday). For more information call 4408-4888.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Special Foie Gras Menu Sat 12 – Thurs 31: Belgian Café. Try our delicious foie gras dishes from a special menu of the month or go for your usual choice from the main menu. For more information call 4484-4919.

Wed 16: Rocca. Enjoy a 5-course set menu, including Argentinean beef selection and vino. For more information call 4448-1272.

ORYX ROTANA Pride Of India

Fri 25: Choices. Celebrate India’s Republic Day in style with an enticing menu of traditional dishes. QR 160 including a special welcome drink. For more information call 4402-3333.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Australian National Day

Sat 26: Paloma. An Aussie-themed menu and selected Australian beverages.

Discounts on food and drinks if you’re an Aussie or if you come dressed for the occasion! For more information call 4484-4919.

EVERY WEEK SEAFOOD GRAND HYATT DOHA Seafood Festival

Mondays: Isaan Restaurant. Set menu from QR 250 per person from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1234.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sushi Mania

Mondays and Wednesdays: Al Dana.

Finger-sized pieces of fish and shellfish are wrapped around soft sushi rice with a hint of wasabi mustard. QR 155 per person. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Seafood Platter

Tuesdays: Admiral’s Club. Overlooking the marina, you’re invited to enjoy a fresh seafood platter of lobster, prawns, fish and squid. 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 260 per portion serves up to 2 persons. For more information call 4484-8663.

MIDDLE EASTERN GRAND HYATT DOHA Moroccan Tagine Night Mondays: Rocca. Join Chef Kenza form Casablanca for an array of Moroccan Tagine dishes from 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4448-1234.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA Dinner At Tangia

Mondays - Fridays: Discover the traditional Moroccan cuisine artistically prepared and refreshingly authentic.

7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., location Lobby Level. For more information call 4434-3687.

INTERNATIONAL FOUR SEASONS DOHA A Trip Around The Regions Of Italy

Saturdays - Thursdays: Il Teatro.

Choose from a selection of fresh antipasti buffet followed by regional main course concluding with a delicious dessert buffet.

QR 200. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

HILTON DOHA Crazy For Creole

Sundays: Mawasem. Enjoy spectacular authentic Creole and curry dishes from the heart of the islands. QR 190 including unlimited soft drinks. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

65

Food & Dining Listings ORYX ROTANA Tex Mex BBQ

Sundays: Choices. Enjoy a special beverage deal with the Tex Mex BBQ night!

7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. and for QR 189 per person including water, soft drinks and chilled juices. For more information call 4402-3333.

W DOHA Grill Night

Sundays: Market. Steak connoisseurs and red-meat lovers can savour their prize cuts of tender meat, fowl and seafood.

Char-grilled or seared, rare or well done. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

SHERATON DOHA Parillada Night

Sundays & Wednesdays: Latino. All you can eat Argentinian parillada served at your table including salad and dessert buffet and live entertainment. QR 190 food only, 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

ST. REGIS DOHA Early Evenings

Sundays – Fridays: Astor Grill. Dine early and enjoy a discovery menu especially designed by Chef Rudy. 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

QR 500 including a 3-course discovery menu, QR 650 paired with beverages. For more information call 4446-0105.

MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Matador Mondays

Mondays: Seasons Restaurant. Travel the world on a plate. Savour enticing Spanish delights; tapas, paella, live cooking and much more. QR 160 per person. For more information call 4429-1111.

THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Barbecue Bazaar Night Mondays: Flying Carpet Restaurant.

Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers and hot dogs.

QR 190 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m.

For more information call 4446- 5600.

66

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA ‘Souvlaki Night’ Greek BBQ

Mondays: Mykonos. Eat as much mixed grill as you can. Enjoy a live cooking station with buffet of fresh cold mezzedes and salads complemented with deserts.

6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 165 per person.

For more information call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA International Buffet

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: Grand Gourmet. Italian cuisine Saturdays, Far Eastern cuisine Mondays, Seafood Wednesdays and Arabian cuisine on Fridays. Breakfast from 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., lunch from 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. and dinner from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. The special Friday family brunch is served between 11:30 a.m. till 3:30 p.m.

For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333.

WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER New Dessert Selection

Monday’s – Saturdays: Ipanema. Enjoy the colours, sounds and flavours of Brazil, with traditional picanha, Brazilian kafta and their new flambé dessert bar and buffet.

From QR 290 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

WEEKEND THURSDAY SEAFOOD HILTON DOHA Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: Mawasem. QR 225 including unlimited soft drinks. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m.

For more information call 4423-3333.

THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: Flying Carpet Restaurant.

Find the catch of the day and a selection of seafood for cooking, QR 220 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.

MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Deep Blue Thursdays

Thursdays: Seasons Restaurant. A simply spectacular buffet of rich, fresh and succulent seafood and fish. QR 180 per person, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.

WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Seafood Night

Thursdays: Crossroads Kitchen. Enjoy the biggest seafood paella in Doha, alongside tiger prawns, mussels, tuna, oysters and the freshest sushi in town! From QR 225 including soft beverages.

6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Indonesian Food Festival Thursdays: Lagenda International Restaurant. QR 168 per adult, QR 88 per child. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4888

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA BBQ Platter

Thursdays & Fridays: Admiral’s Club.

A platter of BBQ good for two people, inclusive of beef steak, chicken skewers, salmon fillet, lamb chops, hammour fillet and jumbo prawns with baked potato, condiments and chef’s salad. 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 190 per portion, QR 50 extra for fresh lobster. For more information call 4484-8663.

LA CIGALE Thursdays All’Italiana

Thursdays: Di Capri. An exceptional Italian experience amidst the authentic performance of a talented musician singing the most beautiful Italian and English melodies. Thursdays All’Italiana features two formulas: live cooking A Go-Go pasta at QR 85 and a 3-course set menu at QR 190. Both formulas are inclusive of one glass of house beverage or soft drink. For more information call 4428-8698.

FOUR SEASONS DOHA Charcoal-Grilled

Thursdays: Pool Grill. Gather family and friends for an unforgettable festive experience, as you select your choice of delicious barbeque. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. From QR 170. For more information call 4494-8601.

FRIDAY SEAFOOD INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Seafood BBQ Night

Fridays: Fish Market. Enjoy a seafood BBQ dinner by the beachfront with live cooking stations. QR 280. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m.

For more information please call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

INTERNATIONAL HILTON DOHA Asian Persuasion

Fridays: Mawasem. Presenting a colourful array of dishes from the Far East. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. QR 190 per person including unlimited soft drinks. For more information call 4423-3333.

ORYX ROTANA Indian Flavours

Fridays: Choices. QR 160 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 240 including unlimited selected house beverages. 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.

For more information call 4402-3333.

MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Curry, Kare, Kari Fridays Fridays: Seasons Restaurant. Get curried away from South-East Asia to the north of India. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Weekend Roast

Fridays & Saturdays: Le Grill. With all its traditional trimmings, the roast comes with many choices of meat. QR 180 per person, QR 220 per person including house beverages. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-7470.

SATURDAY

MIDDLE EASTERN

SEAFOOD

THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Arabian Night

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA Sushi Fiesta

Fridays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines, QR 190 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.

Saturdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Eat as much you can at the award-winning best restaurant for QR 129 per person, including a glass of sparkling date juice. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Sushi And Steak

Saturdays: Blue Restaurant. QR 195 per person, for an additional QR 50 select the premium quality of Australian Wagyu beef. 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

W DOHA Sushi Night

Saturdays: Spice Market. This comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his expert team. QR 230 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

ORYX ROTANA Sushi & Sashimi Night

Saturdays: Choices. The talented team of chefs serve up the perfect Japanese dining experience. QR 195 per person (food only).

For more information call 4402-3333.

INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Malaysian Hi Tea

Saturdays: Lagenda International Restaurant. A large selection of Malaysian delicacies and Free-flowing Tarik tea.

12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 110 per adult, QR 75 per child aged 4-12 years. For more information call 4408-4888.

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Saturday Roast

Saturdays: Admiral’s Club. Enjoy the perfect hand-carved selection of roast meats, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings. 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 120.

For more information call 4484-8663.

W DOHA Burger Night

Saturdays: Market. The tastiest burgers made just the way you like them. Choose your burger, side dish and a dessert for QR 110. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

67

Food & Dining Listings ORYX ROTANA

RECOMMENDS

Fridays: Choices. The brunch offers a wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. QR 249 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 324 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

For more information call 4402-3333.

WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA A La Carte Friday Lunch

Fridays: Aroma. For all those that are tired of buffets! 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325.

ORYX ROTANA Retail Tapas Galore

Saturdays: The Cellar. Endless tapas for QR 150 per person and pay reduced retail prices for selected vino. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHERATON DOHA Ladies Night

Saturdays: Latino. Free drinks for ladies when you order a minimum of 2 courses from the A La Carte Menu. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

WEEKEND BRUNCH THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Fridays: Vine Restaurant. An extensive buffet and live cooking stations. QR 275 including soft drinks and QR 375 including a selection of beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

68

SHERATON DOHA

Fridays: Al Hubara. Enjoy an international buffet with some of the local specialties like Ouzi and Oumali.

There is also a kids area with balloons and face painting. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m., QR 190 per person. For more information call 4485-4071.

HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA

Fridays: D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. Eat as much as you like Dim Sum and Sushi and enjoy a delicious buffet with free-flowing Chinese tea. 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 138 per adult. For more information call 4408-4888.

WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER

Fridays: Crossroads Kitchen. Offering a fantastic international brunch including a children’s buffet and entertainment zone with face painting, movies and games.

QR 225. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

Fridays: Ipanema. Boasting the only authentic Brazilian band in Doha, Ipanema is the place to come for seafood and sizzling meats on skewers, with live entertainment. QR 250 per person including soft beverages and QR 320 including house beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Fridays: Seasons Restaurant. Indulge in an elegant yet casual experience with free-flowing bubbly and enchanting music to complement the tasty buffet. Every Friday features an entirely new theme to amuse the little ones. The ‘parent-free zone’ is fully supervised. Kids get to jump on the bouncy castle, laugh with the clumsy clown and eat from the custommade kids buffet . QR 215 per person, kids under twelve dine free, from twelve to sixteen, half price. For more information call 4429-1111.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in the luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobster, oyster, tiger prawns and sea bass. QR 320 per person. 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA

Fridays: Aramede. Family brunch at the all-day dining theatre restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

HILTON DOHA Fridays: Mawasem. An attractive menu is served to live music accompanied by amazing views of the pool and beach.

QR 222 per person including unlimited soft drinks, QR 333 per person including unlimited house beverages and bubbly, QR 444 per including French bubbly.

Children 6 and under dine free, 7–12 year olds receive a 50% discount. For more information call 4423-3333.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Fridays: Chopsticks Restaurant.

A delightful lunch buffet of Chinese, Japanese and Thai food for only QR 129 per person. (Children ages 6-12 pay only QR 65). For more information call 4434-3203.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Fridays and Saturdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. The first a la carte brunch in Doha! QR 250 including soft drinks, QR 375 including selected beverages.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

MÖVENPICK TOWER & SUITES Fridays and Saturdays: Relax and enjoy a sumptuous array of international cuisines plus a dedicated children’s buffet.

12:00 pm till 4:00 pm. Complimentary access to the pool for children from 12:00 pm till 4:00 pm. QR 199 per person, inclusive of all beverages. For more information call 4496-6600.

ORYX ROTANA Saturdays: Choices. Savour the new Oriental family buffet. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m., QR 210 per person or QR 290 with beverages.

For more information call 4402-3333.

SHERATON DOHA Saturdays: La Veranda. Indulge in the large array of seafood, plus a kids corner.

QR 190 food only, QR 270 with freeflowing beverages and sparkling vino.

From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

69

Sports

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

European PGA Tour Qatar CBQ Golf Masters Championship

QATAR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

International Friendship Football Tournament Tue 1–Thurs 10: A friendly football tournament with local clubs and stadiums around Doha. For more information visit www.qfa.com.qa.

Q MMF

Tues 22–Sun 26: Doha Golf Club. For more information call 4483-2677.

QMMF Qatar International Rally Thurs 24-Sat 26: Losail International Circuit. For more information visit www.circuitlosail.com.

Qatar International Road Racing Championship – Bikes R1, Cars R1

l Fri 11 & Sat 12: Losail Internationa of d roun Circuit. It will be the opening CH and the 2012 / 2013 season for QIRR visit tion rma info e mor QNRRCH. For www.circuitlosail.com.

Qatar Fencing Federation 10th International Men’s Fencing Grand Prix

OUT om K C E CH appening.c

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Thurs 24–Sun 27: Aspire Sports Dome.

For more information call 4483-8392 or 4483-8391.

71

Sports

Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2013: Complete Guide

As told to Jorge Granda

The Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2013 is back in Doha until January 5 for another thrilling edition.

The most anticipated tournament of the year will see Spanish mega-star Rafael Nadal, Frenchmen Richard Gasquet and Gaël Monfils and many other top players facing off across the net. QH has the full star-studded line-up and schedule.

Official Player Acceptance List

Gaël Monfils

in the heat of

a rebound hit

Main Draw

Direct Acceptances

25

Andujar, Pablo

ESP 42

Lacko, Lukas

SVK 50

Wild Cards

3

Becker, Benjamin

GER 65

Lopez, Feliciano

ESP 40

Qualifiers

4

Chardy, Jeremy

FRA 32

Lorenzi, Paolo

ITA 63

Special Exempts

0

Davydenko, Nikolay

RUS 44

Malisse, Xavier

BEL 62

Dodig, Ivan

CRO 73

Monfils, Gael

FRA 78

TICKET INFO

Ferrer, David

ESP 5

Nadal, Rafael

ESP 4

• Book online at www.qatartennis.org after Sunday, November 18 • Ticket also on sale at City Center, Landmark, Lagoona Mall and the Khalifa Tennis Complex

Fognini, Fabio

ITA 45

Phau, Bjorn

GER 76

Garcia-Lopez, Guillermo

ESP 77

Ramos, Albert

ESP 51

Also on site:

Gasquet, Richard

FRA 10

Rosol, Lukas

CZE 74

Gimeno-Traver, Daniel

ESP 71

Troicki, Viktor

SRB 38

Hanescu, Victor

ROU 64

Youzhny, Mikhail

RUS 25

Kohlschreiber, Philipp

GER 20

Zemlja, Grega

SLO 55

Kubot, Lukasz

POL 75

Original Cutoffs

78

Ranking Date: Nov 19, 2012

• VIP Village – for VIP guests includes food, beverages, lounge areas and outdoor entertainment • Public Village – includes food court, sponsor booths, Kids Zone, outdoor entertainment • Kids Clinics – held daily at 4:00 p.m. on the outside courts • Autograph Sessions – held daily at 6:00 p.m. in the Public Village

72

nis share the stage

ten The world stars of

during the trophy

ceremony

TOURNAMENT FORMAT

VIP Tickets: QR 3,300 a week per seat.

From December 31st, 2012, until the end of the tournament ticket sales will take place at City Center, Landmark, Lagoona Mall and the Khalifa Tennis Complex

The Singles draw is a knock-out format consisting of 32 players who play daily to move into the next round. Of these 32 players, 25 have a confirmed spot prior to the event, though the decision as to where they are placed in the draw will only be known at the draw ceremony. The selection of these 25 players is based on their current ATP World Tour ranking.

PRICES FOR EXXONMOBIL 2013 TICKETS Uppers

Middles A/C

Middle B

Middle B + VIP

Lowers + VIP

Ground Passes

Day One

QR 20

QR 20

QR 75

QR 100

QR 325

QR 350

QR 10

Day Two

QR 20

QR 20

QR 75

QR 100

QR 325

QR 350

QR 10

Day Three

QR 30

QR 30

QR 75

QR 100

QR 325

QR 350

QR 10

Day Four

QR 30

QR 30

QR 150

QR 180

QR 400

QR 430

QR 10

Day Five

QR 45

QR 75

QR 190

QR 225

QR 440

QR 475

QR 10

Day Six

QR 65

QR 90

QR 215

QR 250

QR 465

QR 500

QR 10

Lowers

Four of the remaining seven spots in the singles draw are decided upon in the qualifying rounds. These qualifying matches are played on Saturday and Sunday, Dec 29-30, 2012. The final three spots are given to wild-card entrants who are considered to be automatically entered into the main draw.

The Doubles draw is also a knock-out format of 16 doubles teams. Ten are secured spots based on the ATP World Tour Doubles Ranking as a team and four spots are provided for teams who pair up on the spot while two spots are reserved for wild-card entries.

73

Sports SCHEDULE OF PLAY Monday, December 31

Tuesday, January 1

Wednesday, January 2

Thursday, January 3

Friday, January 4

Saturday, January 5

1st Match – 3:30 p.m.

2nd Match – 5:30 p.m.

(Official opening match of tournament) 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day 1st Match – 3:30 p.m.

2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day

1st Match – 3:30 p.m.

2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day

Doubles Final – 4:00 p.m.

Singles Semi – Followed by Singles Semi – Last match of the day

1st Match – 3:30 p.m.

2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day

Singles Final – 5:30 p.m.

Followed by trophy presentation

Camaraderie and sportsmanship between Rafael Nadal (left) and Gaël Monfils

74

Packed stands at

the the Khalifa

INSIDE THE KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL TENNIS & SQUASH COMPLEX

International Te

nnis and Squash

Complex

Inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, in 1992, the stadium has an initial capacity of 4,500 seats but it was later enlarged in 2008 to seat the current capacity of 7,000 spectators. 2008 also saw additional renovations to the set-up of the venue with the addition of new stands, VIP boxes, Lower, Middle and Upper sections and the VIP Village, Public Village and Food Court.

In 2012, two more show courts were added. Currently, the venue has one centre court, four show courts and 20 outside courts. This makes the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex the ideal setting A young fan shows his tennis pride for one of the greatest sporting events on the world stage. Set-up of the Public Village, VIP Village, Traditional Souq THE EXCLUSIVE VIP VILLAGE and Kids Zone are now underway and the venue is being transformed into an The VIP Village provides an opportunity interactive, entertaining home for tennis for fans to mingle with players, sponsors and so much more during the first week of and other VIP guests – all in a luxurious the New Year. and relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of international cuisine, THE PUBLIC VILLAGE live stations and beverages, while some of the best lounge DJs in the city provide The Public Village offers fun and music throughout the event. Guests can entertainment for the entire family. collect their copy of the Official Tournament When not on the courtside watching Program at the VIP Reception Desk, matches, fans can take part in a variety of purchase official Qatar Tennis Federation activities in the Public Village. The Food merchandise, strike up a conversation Court is located to the left of the Public with other VIP guests over espresso at the Village where food and beverages can coffee corner and even meet a tennis star. be purchased from top vendors such as Asiana, The Curry House, Sterling Fast The Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Food, Pizza Hut, TCBY, Arbys and Coffee Complex also provides medical services, Beanery. To the right of the Public Village restrooms and an information kiosk for all are the sponsor booths and the Qatar those attending the games.

Tennis Federation merchandise store.

s

ht up the billboard

Tennis legends lig

75

Sports

The Doha

Dash As told to Jorge Granda

L-R: Jamie Cunningham, CEO of Adel Professional Sports Group and hin Dolp of Ahmed Albuainain, GM Energy Qatar

Marathons are extremely popular in many countries and now Doha will have the chance to be part of the trend. QH unveils The Doha Dash 2013.

CONCEPT Mass participation running events are starting to take off in the Arabian Gulf.

Here are some quick stats: 19,000 runners - 2012 Dubai Marathon 10,000 runners - 2011 Abu Dhabi Terry

Fox Run 8,000 runners - 2010 Amman 10km 6,000 runners - 2012 Beirut Marathon One noticeable Arabian city is missing from this list – Doha, but all that is about to change next month – so start your cardio training now! Professional Sports Group are launching the inaugural Doha Dash running festival taking place on Qatar National Sports Day this February 12, 2013. The Doha Dash offers something for everybody with 5km, 3km and 1km runs taking place in the unique setting of the Losail International Circuit.

QATAR NATIONAL SPORTS DAY The aim of Qatar National Sports Day is to engage the population of Qatar in sporting activity. The Doha Dash is a ready-made event to service these needs and offers the ideal outlet for people to participate with colleagues, family and friends.

76

THE RACES All of the races in the Doha Dash take place on the track at Losail, starting and finishing in the home straight, with warm-ups for each race taking place in the pit lane.

5km race – This race is open to anybody ages 12 and over and will see runners complete one full lap of the International Circuit.

3km race – This race is open to all and is aimed at those who want to sample the experience of mass participation running but don’t want to push themselves too hard.

1km race – This race is predominantly aimed at children and takes place along the pit lane and back down the home straight for a grandstand finish.

CHARITY Charity plays an important part of any community running event. Running events give individuals the fulfillment of completing a challenge, but also the chance to give

back to a good cause. Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) is the official charity of the 2013 Doha Dash.

RACE DAY On race day, the Doha Dash will be a bustling family event with a wide variety of activities. The large Festival Village in the pit lane and garages will feature the following: • Live music • Have-a-go sports area • Inflatable sports • Sponsor showcasing • Children’s activities • Food and beverage • Charity showcase The emphasis is on fun and fitness and the Festival Village will have many interactive activities that visitors can come and try for themselves. Post-race, participants are encouraged to stay at the venue and soak up the entertainment and atmosphere while enjoying their post-race breakfast.

Top 5 Tips

athon For Running A Mar

1

Make sure that you wear the sneakers, socks, and clothes that you’ll be racing in before the race itself. If they aggravate you in any way, you can expect that problem to be magnified during the race, and should take steps to alleviate the discomfort.

2

Hydration should not begin the morning of the race. Instead, you should make a conscious effort to drink lots of water at least 48 hours before the start of your marathon. It takes the body that long to fully fill its H2O stores.

3

Wear a watch during the race. You won’t always be able to hear your splits early on in the race, or some races won’t have volunteers at every mile marker. Either way, you need to make sure that you are on your target pace at every mile, and speed up or slow down accordingly through the first half of the race.

ENTRY FEES Soleus Ultra Sole running watch

• Bulk entry of 5 runners – QR 400 (QR 100 donation to ROTA) Running accessories you might need to consider

• 3km race Individual – QR 50 (QR 10 donation to ROTA) • Bulk entry of 5 runners – QR 200 (QR 50 donation to ROTA)

Trail running shoes Salomon Speedcross 3

Hydration pack/ The North Face

4

Drink water during the race before you get thirsty, preferably no later than mile 10. By the time you start feeling thirsty, your body is already starting to get into trouble.

5

Assess the weather the day of the race and adjust your goals accordingly. High or low temperatures, excessive humidity, and wind can all take their toll on your body during the course of 26.2 miles.

Beirut Marathon

• 5km race Individual – QR 100 (QR 25 donation to ROTA)

1km race Individual - Free of Charge The fee for all races includes entry into the event, chip timing, race number, post-race breakfast and an exclusive limited edition race t-shirt and gift to take away.

ABOUT THE DOHA DASH Event: Doha Dash Where: Losail International Circuit Time: Morning, exact time TBA When: Tuesday, February 12 How To Register: www.dohadash.com and click ‘Enter Here’

or call 5509-1351

Tips from www.coolrunning.com.au 77

Sports Listings CLASSES INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Abs Workout

Wednesdays and Fridays: The Bay Club.

The instructors will concentrate on your exercise technique to work the abdominal muscles from every conceivable angle.

Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m., Fridays at 11:15 a.m. Free for members, QR 30 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Aerobics DANA CLUB DOHA Yoga

Mondays & Wednesdays: Yama Yoga. QR 60 for members and QR 75 for non-members. Mondays: 9:45 a.m. for mixed levels and 7:00 p.m. for prenatal.

Wednesdays: 9:45 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. both for mixed levels. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com.

ONE OF A KIND QATAR TENNIS FEDERATION Qatar ExxonMobil Tennis Open

Tues 1 – Sat 5: Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. It’s the 21st edition of the Qatar Open and part of the 250 series of the 2013 ATP World Tour. For more information visit www.qatartennis.org.

QMMF Qatar National Baja R1

Fri 4 & Sat 5: The ceremonial start will take place in QMMF. National Baja is an event for cars. For more information call 4437-9884 or email info@qmmf.com.qa.

QMMF Track Day

Sat 5: Losail International Circuit. Track days are open days where the public can bring their own bike or car and ride on the Qatari track. The track is open to everybody. QR 350 per bike, QR 500 per car.

For more information visit www.circuitlosail.com.

78

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sunrise Yoga With Vishnu Fri 11: Al Dana Island. An invigorating experience welcoming the warming rays of the sun. Starts at 8:30 a.m., QR 50. For more information call 4425-6999.

EUROPEAN PGA TOUR Qatar CBQ Golf Masters Championships

Tues 22 – Sun 26: Doha Golf Club.

Sponsored by Commercialbank. Each year many of the world’s top golfers compete.

For more info visit www.qatar-masters.com.

EVERY WEEK DOHA MUMS Couch To 5k Running Program

Mondays & Thursdays: Park next to Sheraton. Babies and pre-schoolers are more than welcome in jogging-type strollers. The workout will last around an hour with cool down and stretching. Starts at 8:15 a.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

Saturdays - Thursdays: IAID. Aerobics integrates the modern breakthroughs of Pilates, Zumba and high-intensity interval training. For more information call 4432-0974.

IAID Ballroom Dancing

Saturdays & Sundays: IAID. Ballroom dancing, a refreshing dance choice, takes participants through a set of partner dances enjoyed at social occasions. Get into the rhythm of swing, salsa, jive, tango, rhumba, cha cha and samba, while reaping the benefits of health and fitness. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Spinning

Mon, Wed, Fri and Saturdays: The Bay Club. Spinning is adaptable to your fitness level. Mondays and Wednesdays 6:15 p.m., Fridays 12:00 p.m. and Saturdays 9:00 a.m.

QR 25 for members, QR 35 for non-members.

For more information call 4484-4852.

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162

Golf

The Doha Golf Club 4496-0777 or www.dohagolfclub.com

MÖVENPICK TOWER & SUITES Swimming

Wednesdays – Mondays: Pool. Lessons for all ages. Book 10 sessions and receive two for free. Adults QR 1,000, Children QR 900. Advanced booking is required. For more information call 4496-6410.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Step AO2

Mondays and Wednesdays: The Bay Club. Step AO2 improves both mental and physical fitness, burning away calories while learning fun routines to the newest music. More suitable for intermediate steppers. Starts at 10:00 a.m., QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA 3/15 Workout

Thursdays: The Bay Club. This class draws on 3 principal exercise components; cardiovascular aerobics choreography, cardiovascular basic step choreography and shaping and toning work, lasting 15 minutes each. Thursdays at 4:00 p.m., QR 30 for members and QR 40 for non– members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

IAID Yoga

Sat, Sun, Mon & Wednesdays: IAID. Yoga relieves stress and meets overall health and fitness. The course focuses on Hatha Yoga, which paves the way to a holistic yogic path including physical postures, purification procedures, poses, yogic breathing and meditation. For more information call 4432-0974/6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

GARVEYS Yoga

Daily: Yama Yoga. For all levels. For more information call 6617-5802 or visit www.yamayogastudios.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Zumba

Mondays: The Bay Club. Fitness should be fun and that’s exactly what Zumba is. It’s a mixture of Latin and international music fused together to create a fun, dance party atmosphere burning between 400-1000 calories per hour. Suitable for all ages, shapes and fitness levels. From 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Horse Riding

Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857 Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 or qatarracing@gmail.com Al Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 or www.alshaqab.com

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162

Sailing Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 or www.qmsf.com Regatta Sailing Academy 4442-4577 or www.regattasailingacademy.com Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com

Swimming

Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa Aqua Park

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

Park at Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche The Pearl-Qatar (2.5 km) Aspire Park

79

QH Sensations

recommends Ashlee - Day-Trip To

your Tell us what you think! Send ing.com reviews to info@qatarhappen

Zikreet

The life of an editor is one of constant motion -- writing, assigning stories, over-seeing production and attending a plethora of events on behalf of the magazine. It’s hectic and I have to constantly remind myself to take some time on a Friday just to relax. So, one weekend last month when some friends suggested we do a day-trip up to Zikreet to hit the beach, I jumped at the chance. It was my first real road-trip Sunset over the water at Zikreet outside of Doha and it was bliss! About an hour’s drive, we hit the open highway, drove through the rocky limestone desert in Zikreet and eventually found a secluded strip of beach to set up shop for the day. With the cool weather it was the perfect time to be outside. The water was still warm and we packed a cooler and supplies to barbecue right on the beach. So for all you busy workaholics out there I whole-heartedly recommend some quality time this New Year with your friends and loved ones. For me, Zikreet was the perfect spot!

Susanna

Frandora’s Box For unique gift items at affordable prices, there really isn’t much better than Frandora’s Box. Selling shabbychic accessories, new and vintage gold, silver and costume jewelry and being the only provider of Handmade Mohair Artist Bears in Qatar, they seem to have found their niche in the market. Visit their Facebook page to see sample stock and where to find them.

I for one will be paying them a visit. For more information call 6634-5831.

Srimani

The Shake Shack I’ve got some exciting news for burger lovers: the American chain, Shake Shack, is now open in Villaggio Mall. As a fast-food lover I’ve sampled many a burger, but the ones at the Shake Shack are some of the best.

They’re juicy, tender and delicious, along with a side of cheese fries it’s a meal that ran all over my tastebuds. They also have an amazing system for customers: once you pay for your order the cashier gives you an electronic token that shakes and blinks a set of lights when your food is ready for pick up. Hence the name, Shake Shack!

Soné

Le Bain Candles There’s nothing better than stepping into a room infused with an aromatherapy candle from Le Bain, especially when you’ve had a stressful week. Shop online and order one of your very own at www.lineaspa.com.

Jorge

Oliver Stone’s ‘Savages’ It’s been a while since a movie caught my attention and kept me seriously entertained, but when I saw the newly-released ‘Savages’ by Oliver Stone, (usually I’m not a big fan of him), that’s exactly what happened.

The story is kind of wicked and depressing as it explores the connection between three people who get caught up with the Mexican cartels, but there was something about it that made it work for me. The acting was powerful and the cinematography beautiful; I definitely recommend giving it a watch!

81

QH Sensations

A Sense

Of Eforea

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

The new Eforea Spa at the Hilton Doha offers more than just your typical spa experience. We review the Slimming Detox Body Wrap which will have you well on your way to complete rejuvenation.

Eforea’s Thai massage room

The lush thermal pool

82

First Impressions

There’s a shift in mind and body that happens when you set foot in the Eforea Spa at Hilton. The stress of the day and the month’s looming deadlines melt away in the cool, blue surroundings. I start to breathe easier, walk more slowly and know that I’m in for a treat. The first Eforea Spa in the Middle East, the brand is quickly making its mark. The staff is friendly, attentive and it’s some of the best service I’ve had at a facility here in Doha.

The cool, blue theme is well-thought out, staff member Manoj tells me as he walks me through a tour of the spa. Blue is a colour of calm, relaxation and peace and that’s exactly what you feel here.

I’m early and I share a nice few minutes chatting with the staff members about their backgrounds and experiences as we visit the thermal pool, sauna, aromatherapy showers, Thai massage room and gym.

Eforea carries a great line of products available for purchase, with each brand specific to one of their three Essentials, Escape and Men’s Treatment Journeys.

Manoj shows me lines of essential oils, serums, mineral scrubs and more from international American brand Kerstin Florian, Australian organic label Li’tya and from Eforea’s own signature line of products. Everything that your therapist uses on you during your treatment can be bought directly from the sales area to take home and pamper yourself.

The interior reflects light, warmth and calm

Slimming Detox Body Wrap

A great treatment to have postholidays when trying to lose those extra Christmas-indulgence kilos, I go into this 90-minute session not sure what to expect, having never had a wrap before. My therapist Ashvima was incredibly knowledgeable and guided me through every step she took. I selected my essential oil and scrub fragrance which was Spiritual – an infusion of jasmine and sage and she gave my entire skin a thorough exfoliation from head to toe before painting my entire body in a spirulina algae seaweed wrap to soften, nourish and promote the breakdown of toxins within the body. Once applied, I was enfolded in a light cling-wrap material to let the vitamins enrich my skin for about 30 minutes.

During this time I also got a nice facial and scalp massage which is a great added touch to an already relaxing treatment. I can’t recommend this procedure enough as it goes the whole nine yards – revitalizing and relaxing you by paying attention to the entire body rather than one specific area. After a quick, warm shower to wash the emulsion off, the treatment ended with a blissful full-body massage with organic juniper and fennel oils. Coupled with a proper diet and exercise, the Slimming Detox Body Wrap can be an effective way to assist in weight loss as the nutrients in the seaweed promote healthy detoxification and cellular rejuvenation. I leave with my skin feeling softer and more youthful than it’s ever been and my mind cleared, relaxed and ready to face the next day. I’ll definitely be back for more.

Hands-on relaxation

About Eforea Spa

Kerstin Florian, one of the many brands offered at Eforea

Location: Hilton Doha Timings: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Price: Slimming Detox Body Wrap

QR 650, 90 mins Contact Info: 4423-3333 or doha.spa@hilton.com

www.eforeaspa.com

83

Take your New Year’s resolutions with you wherever you go with these handy apps that will keep you on the right track!

eter: Health M Health Tracker Fitness : Calculatorer, you can

1

Met With Health y ate BMI (Bod ul lc quickly ca al as (B R , BM Mass Index) t and ate), Body Fa R ic ol ab Met this h it Ratio. W Waist-to-Hip there’ll ss ce ac rtips at-your-finge e up s not to shap ol be no excuse t to ea Year – a gr for the New m! gy e th you at to have with

2

3

Health

Tips: Why sp en expens d money on ive vita health mins su progra pplements or and ms? W diet ith app, H ealth T this nifty ip s provid you wit h e to use easy, reliable s natura w ays l pro ingredie nts to k ducts and from th eep he alt e great t inside out. Th hy ips wil e l help y se money ou sav at the e p h keep y ou lead armacy and ing a h active ealthy, life.

Lifestyle : PlannerNew Year’s

ur Maybe yo orld see the w to is n o ti lu so re y the best more? Enjo and travel , concerts s, festivals attraction erica with A in Latin m ts n ve e d an Planner e Lifestyle to A&E and th llows you browser a tput u o f o app. Your e p te and ty a d e th b ct n sele n eve uy and you ca events t, n a w u yo rite your favou Get tickets to ne. o h p r u yo direct from packing!

84

4

FOX News Health:

With the FOX News Health Bookmark for BlackBerry® get one-click access to the late st health headlines wherever you are . Want up-to-the-minute information on celebrity fitness plans, the newest fad diets and how to avoid them, or other healthy lifestyle bre aking news, then this is the app for you.

QH Sensations Experience g destinations in n e p p a h ic st ta Escaping to fan d does wonders. Here are some around the worl

Australia Day Jan 26: Australia.

If you’re Down Under on their national day expect to find the country in an uproar of celebration with an array of outdoor fireworks, sporting events and concerts with a focus on multiculturalism.

Enjoy the fleet races in Sydney Harbour, a huge light show over the Opera House, or take in the Big Day Out concert featuring local and international headlining musicians.

Visit www.australiaday.com.au and get hoppin’!.

Dubai Shopping Festival Jan 3 - Feb 3: U.A.E. Though the holiday consumer rush has just gone by, keep the trend running and hop a quick flight over to the Dubai Shopping Festival. Now in its 18th year, the festival will feature citywide fashion shows, street displays, fireworks, concerts and the best of the best in the brand-name fashion sector. Get out your pocketbook and visit www.dubaishopingfestival2013.com for more info.

Igloofest Jan 12 - 28: Canada Forget about the cold Canadian winters and get your dance shoes on as a plethora of electronic music takes over the Montréal waterfront. Featuring techno DJs from the Great White North and all over the world, the festival draws huge crowds over its two-week span as live shows, light displays and a whole lot of groovin’ keep the cold at bay. Shiver on over to www.igloofest.ca and get your parkas on!

Prague Winter Festival Starts Jan 1: Czech Republic

Cairo International Book Fair Jan 22 - Feb 7: Egypt Come wander Cairo’s labyrinthine stalls at this festival, the oldest book fair in the Arab world. With poetry readings, meet -the-author sessions, cultural cafés and literary roundtable discussions, the fair has something for even the keenest bookworms. Visit www.cairobookfair.org and unleash your inner wordsmith.

This historic festival of music, opera and ballet is not to be missed. With roots dating back to the early 1970s its nickname is the Festival of Bohemia as artists and musicians gather to take over the city’s cultural epicentres in a cavalcade of creative expression. As the city’s ancient castles are decked with lights, enjoy the sounds and sights amidst the snowy background of wintry Prague. Visit www.pragueexperience.com and get out your guidebook!

85

QH Sensations

Road

Warriors

By Chloe Adelle

Ever wondered what it would be like to hit the highway out of the city and just drive with the open road under your wheels and the desert all around you? We take you on a road-trip from Doha to Abu Dhabi.

The long desert highway 86

H

ere in Doha we live for the extended weekend. Those short jaunts to places like Dubai, Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Jordan give the New York Times’ ‘36 Hours’ series a raison d’être as we try to pack in as many activities and indulgences as we can before it’s back to traffic jams and dust storms.

However, the Doha International Airport is not the only way to travel.

Forget the taxis, the line-ups and the luggage tags, pack a cooler, put on your favourite ‘Best Of’ album and enjoy the freedom of heading out to wherever the (pre-programed) GPS takes you.

Dunes alo

ng the roa

The much-fabled Arabian Desert-with its expansive rolling dunes, open roads and clear blue skies--offers ipassengers a sublime tranquility that rivals any first class lounge. It’s also the perfect segue to Bahrain, Dubai, Oman or Abu Dhabi.

To get from Qatar to any of its neighbours in the peninsula, you must first drive through Saudi Arabia. While tourist visas are difficult to come by, obtaining a transit visa to pass through the Kingdom is relatively easy. Transit visas must be arranged through an approved travel company, which is great for those of us who would rather not endure the process ourselves.

There are several such companies in Doha ready to help prospective travellers secure a visa. One, AlAsayel (4437-2784), located on B-Ring Road charges QR 135 per passport and takes anywhere from 5-22 days, depending on your nationality.

Just drop off your passport, payment and two photos, and soon enough you’ll be admiring your shiny new Saudi transit visa. This allows you to drive for up to three days in Saudi on the way to your other destination and three days on the way back, staying away from Qatar for no longer than 90 days.

Whether it’s the IKEA, the oasis of Al Ain or the world’s fastest rollercoaster that draws you in, Abu Dhabi—the largest of the seven Emirates—is an easy six hours away and a great excuse for a road trip.

d to Saud

i

The Sheikh Zayed mosqu e in Abu Dhabi

With Saudi visa in hand, just follow Salwa Road and the signs pointing to KSA and you’ll reach the border in about 45 minutes. Tip: visit the last gas station before the border as it is the last chance for a comfortable rest stop until you reach the U.A.E. At the border you will drive through long corridors and several checkpoints before stopping to have your car inspected and your fingerprints taken.

Women, who must be fingerprinted separately, should make sure to dress appropriately to leave the vehicle. Car insurance must also be purchased at the border for a small fee.

Those smooth red dunes beckoning to our 4X4 from the Saudi highway are the outskirts of the much-fabled Empty Quarter. Just a few kilometres south and we would find ourselves in one of the largest deserts in the world with nothing but the hot sand and unforgiving sun between us and history.

After 90 minutes in the Kingdom you will approach the UAE border. Tourist visas and mandatory car insurance can both be acquired on demand.

In contrast to Saudi Arabia, the U.A.E. has large, well-maintained thoroughfares separated by date palms and regular traffic cameras keeping speeds civilized.

Once you cross into Saudi Arabia, the difference in highway standards are immediately noticeable: blown-out truck tires, lost bumpers and shattered glass litter the ditches along this popular shipping route and with no traffic cameras to impede them, drivers often exceed 160 km/h.

The flat rocky beds of ashen ground near the highway are the edges of the Sabkhat Matti, a huge salt plain that follows the coastline 150 km inland.

Despite the highly saline soil, flora and fauna abound, a true testament to the resilience of nature.

But it’s all part of the excitement of being in a mysterious country that is closed off and inaccessible to most. To the untrained eye, the stretches of desert from Qatar to the U.A.E. may all look the same. But for those of us living in the arid Gulf, we have a talent for finding diversity where we can.

After about three hours, you will reach the outskirts of Abu Dhabi and the winding superhighways characteristic of the Emirates, perhaps a little tired, head filled with mirages from one too many dunes, but also filled with a great sense of accomplishment that only a unique, multistate road-trip through the desert can offer.

87

Virgin Recommends the top QH brings you m the staff picks fro Megastore

NAME: Gladys Dy STORE SECTION: Literature

TIME AT VIRGIN: 3 Years

Best Part of My Job: “Actually I’m not a book-reader!

But since I started working in this section I started reading books and it’s really amazing…I learned a lot from fiction and non-fiction.”

The Hunger Games Suzanne Collins FICTION: This wildly popular youngadult trilogy was making literary waves long before the blockbuster hit the big screen. Get immersed in the world of ‘TheHunger Games’, where only the strongest will survive and friends become both the hunters and the prey.

Aleph Paulo Coelho FICTION: In his most personal work since ‘The Alchemist’, Coelho’s new novel ‘Aleph’ is a spiritual journey in search of love and self-forgiveness.

In his travels to Africa and then Asia on the Trans-Siberian Railroad, Paulo finds a mysterious woman and they set off together on a path of awakening through time and space.

The Secret Rhonda Byrne NON-FICTION: Based on the laws of attraction and positive-thinking, this self-help book has inspired millions of readers around the world to get what they want out of life, careers and relationships.

My Life In Doha: Between Dream and Reality Rachel Hajar M.D. NON-FICTION: Dr. Rachel Hajar documents her journey from the Philippines to medical school in the U.S. where she married a Qatari cardiologist. Her biography examines her transition to Qatar and the new world of faith, customs and culture she found herself immersed in.

Bring Up The Bodies Hilary Mantel FICTION: The follow-up to her Man Booker Prize-winning novel ‘Wolf Hall’, in ‘Bring Up The Bodies’ Mantel continues the saga of the Tudors and the downfall of Henry VIII’s second wife and queen Anne Boleyn. Unable to give him a son and heir, the novel follows the Queen’s trial on grounds of adultery and treason leading to her execution.

88

Virgin

Spotlight On Movies

TOP

Our pick of the best in cinema to kick off the New Year!

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Adventure | Fantasy A curious Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins journeys to the Lonely Mountain with a vigorous group of Dwarves to reclaim a treasure stolen from them by the dragon Smaug.

Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Andy Serkis QH Fun Fact: The film almost didn’t make it out of pre-production as MGM Studios froze its progress while digging themselves out of bankruptcy and several union disputes in New Zealand nearly forced the project to leave the country, delaying the start of shooting.

Deadfall Crime | Drama | Thriller A thriller that follows two siblings who decide to fend for themselves in the wake of a botched casino heist and their unlikely reunion during another family’s Thanksgiving celebration.

Stars: Eric Bana, Olivia Wilde and Charlie Hunnam QH Fun Fact: Actress Olivia Wilde’s first day of shooting was outdoors in the Canadian winter temperatures with nothing but a dress!

Lay The Favorite Comedy Beth, a Las Vegas cocktail waitress, falls in with Dink, a sports gambler who swoons for her as she proves to be something of a gambling prodigy, earning the initial ire of Dink’s wife, Tulip.

Stars: Rebecca Hall, Bruce Willis and Vince Vaugh QH Fun Fact: Justin Timberlake was originally meant to play the role of Rosie, but Vince Vaughn won him over.

90

Jack Reacher Action | Crime | Drama A homicide investigator digs deeper into a case involving a trained military sniper who shot five random victims.

Stars: Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins, Robert Duvall QH Fun Fact: The character of Jack Reacher is described in Lee Child’s novel as 6’5” tall. Tom Cruise is only 5’7”.

Cheerful Weather For The Wedding Comedy | Drama A young woman frets upstairs in her family’s country manor on her wedding day, fearful she’s about to marry the wrong man.

Downstairs, both her fiancé and her former lover grow increasingly anxious.

Stars: Felicity Jones, Luke Treadaway and Elizabeth McGovern David Strathairn

QH Sensations

The Dish The Omani Souq

on Qatar

The Spice Souq in Souq Waqif

New to the country? Welcome to the desert! It’s a New Year and that means a new you, so this month we’re showing you the best spots to shop healthy and local in Qatar.

F

or expats new to Qatar one of the biggest challenges can be an adjustment in diet. Sure there are countless five-star restaurants and numerous international fast-food chains on offer, but sometimes when looking for comfort we seek a taste of home – or at the very least the home-made.

The Vegetable Souq inside the Wholesale Market

92

With Bite As Qatar’s population expands, the accompanying explosion of culinary diversity has made it a palate-tempting landmark. If you’re looking for familiar European or North American brands you’re more than likely to find them at these outlets:

Megamart, The Centre 4444-0018 Souq Waqif

Spinney’s, The Mall 4467-1666 Lulu Hypermarket, Gharrafa Branch 4407-4000 Though you’re likely to find the labels you love here, be prepared to shell out a bit extra for import costs as name brands don’t come cheap. These chains also have organic produce sections with a decent selection to choose from. You can also find other imported products and ingredients at Dean & Deluca and Marks & Spencer in Villaggio and Landmark Malls. The Carrefour supermarket chains also have a good range of meat and produce at reasonable prices and carry a number of affordable local and regional brands and products. Let’s be honest: is there really that much of a difference in quality between the QR 34/kg tomatoes from Holland and the QR 4.50/kg ones from Lebanon?

Going Local

Many local butcher shops also have great deals on fresh lamb and beef from the GCC region. Expect to pay about QR 20 for a kilo of lamb chops at most places –some even marinate them for you the same day so it’s ready for that evening’s barbecue, though you’ll pay more for this extra service.

For those who want a fresh catch you have two options. The fish market section of the Wholesale Market offers a briny bounty straight from the Gulf. Local prawns, hammour and shellfish are sold by the kilo and for roughly QR 50 you can stock your freezer for the month with seafood.

Checking out the Wholesale Food Market off Salwa Road is a must. For newbies it can be a hectic but rewarding experience – it’s busy, it’s loud, it’s bustling and it’s where everyone goes to shop inexpensively and stock up.

If it’s spices, grains, dates and other local ingredients you need to round out that home-cooked recipe, the Souks are the place to go. There’s nothing like wandering through the stalls and alleys of these traditional market-places (Souk Waqif and the Omani Souk at the Wholesale Market), to barter for that bag of saffron, pinch of coriander or stack of plump juicy figs.

Divided into three sections there’s the vegetable market where local vendors offer a host of fresh fruit and veggies, the fish market and the meat market where live animals are auctioned off for the choicest cuts of lamb, goat and beef.

Slaughtering takes place on-site so it’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s as fresh as they come.

The bottom line is don’t be afraid to branch out by staying close to home if you get our drift. Fresh, good quality taste can be found at a bargain! Tell us your favourite places to shop and find local, organic products on Twitter @qatarhappening or on our Qatar Happening Facebook page.

There’s no better way to enjoy a homecooked, healthy meal than with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

The Fish Market

Thursday, Friday Souq

You can drive-thru!

Omani / Flower Souq

93

It Happened

His Highness, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

Qatar National Day The Corniche Dec 18, 2012

This year’s fireworks display was the best yet, set to music

94

The younger generation shows their national pride

Qatar National Day The Corniche Dec 18, 2012

The massive Qatari flag makes its way along the Corniche

95

It Happened

Winning contestants enjoying their goodie bags from BlackBerry

JLo In Dubai Dubai Media City Nov 22, 2012

Our lucky JLO concert trip winners courtesy of BlackBerry and QH!

Right: Lanie Fillo-Pana, QH Distribution and Accounts Administrator

96

Left: QH and BlackBerry concert winners, Tanya and Paul flash their tickets

Katy strikes a pose

Katy PERRY & Usher Dubai Dec 8, 2012

Usher gets the crowd pumping

97

It Happened

Five Michelin-starred Chef Guy Savoy leads the team in the kitchen

Photo Credits: Imran Khan

Quisine by Guy Savoy The Pearl Nov 21, 2012

Plant A TREE In Your Name Al Dana Garden, Sharq Village & Spa Nov 20, 2012

L-R: Srimani Welagedara: QH Production Manager, Chet Tibayan, QH Marketing Coordinator, Amena Tena: Director of Public Relations, Sharq Village and Spa

98

The staff at Quisine by Guy Savoy give us their best smiles

The Sharq Village and Spa staff and members of the public take part in the Community Footprints program

Third from Right: Dr. Saif Ali Al-Hajari: Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, leads the ceremony

The team from Megu and members of I Love Qatar and the Qatar Japan 2012 committee celebrate the Japanese culture

SushiMaking Class Megu, The Pearl, Dec 1, 2012

Centre: Megu Executive Chef Hiroyuki Tamagawa examines the students’ finished maki rolls

Students learn the fine art of sushi-rolling

Photo Credits: Roy Mustang

99

It Happened

Lebanese Food Festival Al Liwan, Sharq Village & Spa Nov 25, 2012

Members from the Lebanese consulate at the ribbon-cutting

Traditional kanun music entertains diners

Radisson Blu Official Opening Party Radisson Blu Hotel Doha Dec 12, 2012

L-R: Ashlee Starratt: Editor, Qatar Happening Magazine and Mairi McLeod: Marketing and Public Relations Manager Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

100

L-R: Kurt Ritter: CEO of Rezidor Hotels and Gordon MacKenzie: General Manager of Radisson Blu Doha give a welcoming speech

Photo Credits: Badir Bechara

QH & ABODE’s Jorge and Deliah pull faces with Nemr

A Humouristic Evening with Comedian Nemr Abou Nassar The St. Regis Doha Dec 13, 2012

Nemr Abou Nassar kept the crowd in stitches

International Holiday Bazaar Grand Hyatt Doha Nov 17, 2012

QH Executive Editorial Director Moona Masri-Whitice and her daughter Yasmeen

101

It Happened

QH’s Susanna and Lanie celebrate with their children

Christmas Tree Lighting Sharq Village & Spa Dec 1, 2012

Christmas Tree Lighting The Four Seasons Doha Dec 2, 2012

Julian Crane, Director of Marketing at the Four Seasons welcomes the public

102

Students from the Doha English Speaking School sing festive carols

Congratulations to the St. Regis Doha for winning the World’s Leading New Hotel Award at the recent World Travel Awards in India!

Christmas Tree Lighting The St. Regis Doha Dec 5, 2012

Enjoying some sweet Christmas goodies

Christmas Tree Lighting The InterContinental Doha Dec 15, 2012

Entering Santa’s village to meet with the man in red

103

Phone Directory Hotels / Restaurants Al Gassar Resort Al Mourjan Restaurants

4424-4881 4483-4423

Biella 4467-7731 Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4408-7582 Doha Marriott Hotel

4429-8888

Four Seasons

4494-8888

Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha

4448-1234 4408-4220 4423-3333

InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6115 Nando’s City Center Mall 4493-0785 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

4428-1555

Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-5000 Ritz-Carlton Doha

4484-8000

Sealine Beach Resort

4476-5299

Sharq Village & Spa

4425-6666

Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

4433-6666

St. Regis Doha

4483-1644

Swiss-Belhotel Doha The Diplomatic Club The Noodle House

4407-8888 4484-7444 4411-5063

The Torch Doha Hotel

4446-5600

W Doha Hotel & Residences

4453-5021

Wyndham Grand Regency

4434-3333

Airlines Air Arabia Air India Egypt Air Emirates Etihad Airways Gulf Air Qatar Airways

4432-2111 4441-8423 4435-2901 4438-4477 4436-6657 4499-8000 4449-6666

Health / Beauty Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bader Chemist 4441-1888 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 4453-5555 Bliss Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Diplomatic Spa 4484-7412 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Foot Care Centre Lulu Gharafa 4478-0510 The Center 4436-6275 City Center 4493-0394 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 4494-8844 Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 4428-8888 La Cigale - Ozone Spa Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 4425-6999 Six Senses Spa

Tourism / Travel Alpha Tours Arabian Adventures World Wide Destination Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Victoria Car Rental

4434-4496 4436-1461 4467-1200 4462-2777 4422-1888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4466-6635

Hospitals/Emergency Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital

999

4438-4333

Emergency Hotline 4435-5999

Rumailah Hospital

4439-3333

Al Ahli Hospital

4489-8000

Pediatric Emergency

4439-2948

Doha Dental

4431-7766

Qatar Foundation for Child &

4439-2222

Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671 / 72

Hamad General Hospital

104

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com Interior Forum Design 4456-8716 Restaurants Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 4431-4411 Chowking Al Saad St. Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/ 4411-8817 Sizzling Hot Pot 4411-5225/

4411-5335 Publications ABODE/QH magazines

4427-8416

Shopping Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 4469-4848 Hyatt Plaza Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

Clubs Bridge Club Doha Garden Club Dana Club Doha Golf Club Doha Sailing Club

5554-0873 5523-1650 4496-0600 4496-0777 4443-9840

Embassies American Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Chinese Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Indonesian Embassy Japanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy South African Embassy Thai Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

4496-6000 4483-8812 4496-2000 4493-4205 4402-1702 4408-2334 4465-7945 4484-0888 4467-5681 4483-1585 6622-1552 4493-4426 4483-8880

Websites www.qatarhappening.com www.iloveqatar.net www.justlanded.com/english/Qatar www.qatarliving.com www.qatartourism.gov.qa