Qatar Happening - October 2012

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Comes To Doha

AIDA LIVE In Concert At Katara

GLOBAL DJS

Beach Party Of The Month

GOING LOCAL

With The Doha Film Institute

1001 INVENTIONS: DISCOVER THE GOLDEN AGE OF MUSLIM CIVILIZATION

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October

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CONTENTS

OCTOBER EVERY ISSUE 9 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LETTER QH’s editor-in-chief tells you what’s happening this month.

10 QH SPEAKS The best of our monthly social media

13 EVENTS CALENDAR

Pullout monthly events calendar

19 TOP PICKS 20 All That Jazz Avis Ellis brings her smooth

QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha

128 PHONE DIRECTORY Need-to-know phone numbers

sounds to Dunes

22 Party On

DJ Example and DJ Fresh hit the beach-party scene

24 Fright Night

with happening events in Doha

122 IT HAPPENED

ARTS & CULTURE

ENTERTAINMENT

Get your scares this Halloween at the Doha Marriott

28 Party Hoppin’ Happenings The best in don’t-miss entertainment

for October

30 ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

41 TOP PICKS 42 1001 Inventions The Golden Age of Muslim Civilization

comes to the Museum of Islamic Art

46 Film Fever A close-up of DFI’s Gulf Development Unit

48 Best In Show The World Stars of Russian Ballet

dance into Doha

52 He’s Got Style Making the fashion cut with Qatari

Fahad Al Obaidly

56 AIDA In Concert Verdi’s masterpiece lights up the

Amphitheatre at Katara

58 Culture At Katara A wealth of exhibits and events

awaits visitors this October

60 ARTS AND CULTURE LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going

on this month

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COMMUNITY

Best In Show

61 TOP PICKS 62 Hope For A Cure Fighting breast cancer in Qatar 64 Every Step Is A Journey Entrepreneurial skill-building at the Bedaya Center

66 I Love Qatar A nation’s push to quit smoking

70 COMMUNITY LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

71 TOP PICKS KIDS CLUB Fun adventures with the kids 72 KIDS CLUB LISTINGS Ideas to do with the kids

FOOD & DINING 75 TOP PICKS 76 Seafood Delight Making a splash with the Seafood Brunch at La Veranda

78 The Spice Of Life Free lunch voucher for Spice Market

at the W Doha

SPORTS 99 TOP PICKS 102 Oriental Groove

Shimmy and shake with this new

class at the Ritz-Carlton Doha

103 SPORT LISTINGS

Find out everything that’s going on

this month

80 QH Eats Our lucky winner samples the

fare at Cucina

82 Eat Your Veggies

Surprisingly delicious ways to bake with vegetables

Find out everything that’s going on this month

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105 QH Recommends

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

Our fave little luxuries of the month

106 Wild Sri Lanka

Lush escapism in a tropical paradise

110 A Glimpse Of Portugal Lisbon shines as a tourist hot-spot 112 Spot-On Skincare A treatment with a difference 114 REASONS TO FLY Our pick of top destinations 116 Virgin Recommends

84 FOOD AND DINING LISTINGS FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

QH SENSATIONS

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

118 SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES This month's top five films 120 THE DISH ON QATAR Stay informed on the country’s visa

and sponsorship requirements

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com 9/26/12 11:42 AM

FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Welcome to the fall! And what a busy one it’s been so far for Qatar Happening. This month all eyes are on Doha’s entertainment and hospitality industry as we host the gala Qatar’s Choice Awards at Al Gassar Resort on October 17. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our coordinating partners DIYAFA and I Love Qatar for their support and commitment and wish the final nominees from all corners of the industry the best of luck.

October also marks International Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Think Pink Qatar has been working hard on this year’s campaign to raise awareness among women at risk. In our Community section we are proud to feature an important story on the shifting nature of that awareness among women, their families and health care providers here in Qatar. Let’s all work together to educate ourselves and our loved ones so that this disease claims fewer lives each year.

In Arts and Culture we have a fantastic cover story this month courtesy of the Qatar Museums Authority. ‘1001 Inventions’, in partnership with Shell will bring two world-class exhibits to Doha this October that highlight the ‘golden age’ of Muslim civilization and its contribution to the realm of science. It’s a show not to be missed and we encourage all our readers to go out with their families and take it in.

We’re also pleased to announce some new regular features to the magazine this month. Our new QH Speaks column on the following page is your chance to be seen in print. Each month we will ask our readers a question through Facebook and Twitter and select several responses to be published, along with our favourite Tweets of the month from you, our loyal followers. It’s our way of bringing your voice to life within Qatar Happening and we hope you’ll have as much fun with this opportunity as we are!

Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

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 Associate Editor: Laura Prior Editorial Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Senior Designer: Soné Moriarty Graphic Designer: Zahi Srour Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Photographer: Jessie Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Ola Diab, Khalifa Saleh Haroon, John Hunt, Jalal Pathiyoor, Gerald Tan Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome.

Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com marketing@qatarhappening.com Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

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

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

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.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief

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.

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Comes To Doha

AIDA LIVE In Concert At Katara

GLOBAL DJS

Beach Party Of The Month

GOING LOCAL

With The Doha Film Institute

ON THE COVER

Scale model of Al-Jazari’s 13th-century Elephant Clock.

Photo Credit: ‘1001 Inventions’ and the Qatar Museums Authority

1001 INVENTIONS: DISCOVER THE GOLDEN AGE OF MUSLIM CIVILIZATION

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SPEAKS

We ask, you answer. The best of the best from our social media top picks this month, plus our Editor’s Corner. Here’s what you’re saying!

r, La Cigale

Madison Piano Ba

Editor’s Corner What’s hot this month you ask? (Besides the weather!) Well, having survived my first summer here in Qatar without melting, I don’t know about you but I’ve been keen to kick it back into gear with the fall party season. Coming from Canada to the Middle East, climate shock was more of an obstacle than culture shock for me.

Hitting up my first beach party of the season last month I wasn’t prepared for the crowds, plus the humidity and the dancing, I faded pretty fast.

But October’s here and things are cooling down and one of the newly re-visioned hot-spots I recommend this month is the Madison Piano Bar at La Cigale. Having undergone some pretty major renovations over the summer, they have a fantastic new dining room that’s done wonders to completely overhaul the ambiance. We’re keen on Ladies Night every Sunday with resident DJ Roger Choueiry.

Kite-surfing instructor, Flora Pestre

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

In Your Face We asked our Facebook followers to tell us what outdoor activity they’re most looking forward to now that the fall is here.

“Swimming at Fuwairit Beach and tennis!”

– Moataz El-Iraqi

“Cycling!” – Almas Abbas

“October isn’t cool enough for outdoor activities” – Batool Alkhatib

Want more details? Here they are: Doors open from 6:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Ladies get one free welcome drink on the house No entrance fee but membership is required Contact info: 4428-8665 or 5518-8008 I’ll have my dancing shoes on. Will you?

See you next month, Ashlee

“Kite-boarding is a MUST!” – Rizon Jet

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QH SPEAKS

QH Team Out & About

Qatar Airways de buts its new in-fl ight menu with top c hefs at Al Gassa r Resort.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTE R @qatarhapp ening

Photo Cred

its: Jessie Pa

lanca, Jalal Pa

thiyoor

TWEETS OF THE MONTH

#L0rdAA

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa

I thought it was a guy who is running QH – my whole life was a lie!

Chef Tom Aikens

#MoonaWhitice QatarHappening you are all amazing thank you!!

#JumLungbus 4 the full moon. In memory of d mon man Neil Armstrong, let’s give that full moon a WINK during the party!!!

#AbodeQatar Centre: Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways CEO

Chef Ramzi

Qatar Choice Awards – be heard, place your vote now!

#CreativeNationz Choueiri

Please let us know of any real#talent in #Qatar you come across. We will be inviting them to audition for an event.

#Pixipixie The fact that no matter what happens today, tomorrow the sun will be shining so greatness is always possible!

atia

Chef Vineet Bh

#TheEdgeQatar Customer service here is a state of mind. Sometimes the mind is out to lunch.

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Experience the new and enhanced weekly theme nights that will get you to dine your way from South east Asia to India and across the Mediterranean to the Swiss Alps and Spain.

Choose from five enticing cuisines served Mondays to Fridays at the Seasons restaurant. www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Mรถvenpick Hotel Doha Corniche Road 24220 Doha, Qatar Tel +974 4429 1111, Fax +974 4429 1100 hotel.doha@moevenpick.com www.moevenpick-doha.com

www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Travel the world

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ENTERTAINMENT TOP PICKS AND NIGHTLIFE THIS MONTH'S

Oktoberfest

Thurs 18 & Fri 19: Radisson Blu Hotel. Enjoy the six piece ‘Karl Heinz Band’ as they perform a mix of typical Bavarian and contemporary songs – an interactive musical experience accompanied by a great Bavarian buffet from Executive Chef Jurgen and his team. Thursday - Giwana Ballroom QR 450 inclusive of German drinks. Friday - Qube QR 250 inclusive of Bavarian buffet, soft drinks and 3 beverage vouchers. For more information call 4428-1428.

DJ Miss Fashion TV@ Crystal

Thurs 4: W Doha. From 11:00 p.m. till late.

For more information call 4453-5135.

Clash 7

Fri 12 & Fri 26: Radisson Blu Hotel.

October sees the start of the popular Clash band competition in Qube. For more information call 4428-1673/1555.

Bollywood Night

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Fri 5: Merwebhotel Central Doha. Every first Friday of the month well-known Bollywood DJs rock the crowd at M Lounge. Free entrance and membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.

Halloween

Wed 31: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Get ready for a ghoulish good time as Jazz Up is set-up for a spooky gathering, so put your mask on and join the fun. Free entrance and free welcome drink for those who arrive in a costume! For more information call 4429-1111.

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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

All That

Jazz As told to Jorge Granda

Jazz up your evenings with the sultry voice of American soul diva Avis Ellis and the tunes of Portuguese phenomenon Juan Pestana as they set the mood with a live performance of soul, blues and swing in Dunes at the Grand Hyatt.

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azz clubs in Doha are becoming more popular than ever with club-goers craving the melodies of this distinctive genre as many lounges are cluing in to satisfy a growing demand. One hot-spot where you can enjoy the best renditions from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra and more all-time favourites is Dunes at the Grand Hyatt Doha.

This month music lovers are in for a special treat as Avis Ellis makes her return to the Grand Hyatt after the immense popularity of her previous run lured her back to the desert.

The ‘soulstress’ who spent most of her career performing in Las Vegas, graced Doha with her spectacular performances from September 2011 until April 2012.

Avis Ellis an d Juan Pest ana

This time she’ll be teaming up with Doha newcomer Juan Pestana, a skilled keyboard player, who has performed in some of Latin America’s finest venues including the iconic Copacabana Club and with prestigious companies like the Madeira Island Classical Orchestra.

Pestana also produces and composes his own music for television and film. “I live by the music and for the music,” he says.

“I live by the music and for the music.”

Dunes is a subtly sophisticated, high-end lounge and a top-notch locale when you want to unwind or spend moments with friends.

The outdoor balcony offers even more room for relaxation with majestic views of the sea and The Pearl and the bar features a wide selection of vinos from around the world, as well as carefully selected spirits.

Premium cigars are available in the cigar room, to complement the house beverages.

Dunes not only offers authentic ambiance for hypnotizing jazz, but also serves as the perfect spot to enjoy one of the most happening Happy Hours in the city. Every day from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. you can kill the stress of your day with a few afterwork libations, while on Sundays there’s an all-day Happy Hour to keep you going for the rest of the week. Add in the sounds of Avis Ellis and Juan Pestana and you’ve got a mix made in jazz heaven.

ABOUT DUNES Event: Avis Ellis and Juan Pestana at Dunes Date: Mondays to Saturdays Venue: Dunes Address: Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel Time: 9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Dress Code: Smart Casual

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Party On!

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

As told to Jorge Granda

Every month the beachfront at the InterContinental Doha is flooded with people eager to dance the night away to some of the most celebrated international DJs in the party circuit. This October will be no exception as Example, DJ Wire, DJ Fresh and Paul Mendez will be taking the stage on Thursday, October 11 to entertain the crowds.

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ince 2006 Global DJs stages innovative, experimental and highly successful beach parties in Doha, as party-goers attend in masses to dance under the bright lights with the sand between their toes. The likes of Tiesto, David Guetta, Armin Van Buuren, Calvin Harris, Deadmau5, Paul Van Dyk, Above & Beyond, Bryan Adams and James Blunt are among the most memorable acts in recent years. This month they’ve gathered another line-up of great artists to perform in one electrifying night.

MAIN ACTS

Life is good for Example A year ago, hit artist Example released his third album, ‘Playing In The Shadows’. It went to number one and has since gone platinum. Two of its singles, ‘Changed The Way You Kiss Me’ and ‘Stay Awake’, also went to number one. Chart success translated into live success and this year he sold out a 14-date U.K. arena tour, played humongous slots at Creamfields, T In The Park and V. This live show is key for Example. “My mission statement is to get everyone going mental,” he says. “I base the success of my gigs on how bouncy

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the crowd is. I watched Faithless for years and have watched Nirvana headline the Reading Festival. They get crowds moshing and I want to recapture that energy.”

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Follow the Example on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ leadingbyexample.

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Smash hit producer DJ FRESH

One of dance music’s visionaries, DJ Fresh – producer, DJ and label owner is one of the driving forces behind the success of drum and bass. Once described as “a tornado rolling across the horizon”, this creative whirlwind has consistently led the scene for more than a decade, having worked with a plethora of artists from both within and outside of the drum and bass fraternity. One of the originators of drum and bass in the last 12 months, DJ Fresh has become a household name with the huge success of tracks like ‘Gold Dust’, ‘Louder’, ‘The Power’, ‘The Feeling’ and ‘Hot Right Now’. ‘Louder’ notched up over 500,000 sales and became the first dubstep track to top charts worldwide.

Stay Fresh at: https://www.facebook.com/djfresh.

ABOUT GLOBAL DJ’S

ABOUT THE BEACH PARTY Date: Thursday, October 11 Featuring: Example,

DJ Wire, DJ Fresh, Paul Mendez,

Jared McCulloch,

Jade Rox, Steve Kz, Xwolf Doors Open: 8:00 p.m.

Tickets: On sale at Virgin Landmark, InterContinental

Hotel Lobby and Crepaway For more information go to: www.facebook.com/globaldjsonline

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SEAFOOD EXTRAVAGANZA AT MAWASEM Dig into a sumptuous Seafood buet every Thursday at Mawasem, Hilton Doha.

Book a table and start your weekend with an extravagant selection of fresh seafood favourites and refreshing drinks.

QR 225 per person including unlimited soft drinks Thursdays starting 7.00 pm until 10.30 pm, For Reservations, please call +974 4423 3333

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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Fright night!

As told to Jorge Granda

It’s that time of year again – Halloween, or All Hallows’ Eve, a day full of magic and mystery! Halloween is all about the tradition of dressing up in costumes, trick-ortreating, carving pumpkins, telling ghost stories and watching spooky movies. But we don’t want you to stop there. QH tells you where to spend the best Halloween night at the Doha Marriott.

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n Thursday November 1 starting at 10:00 p.m. Pearl Lounge at the Doha Marriott is once again opening its doors to host the ultimate Halloween party with the hottest and latest mixes by DJ Joe Mitri.

About Pearl Lounge

On this dreadful night Pearl Lounge’s sleek, chic and elegantly glamourous atmosphere will transform into a haunted graveyard where mysterious creatures and lost spirits will serve you the creepiest cocktails and zombies take over the dance-floor.

Pearl Lounge is the hotspot on Doha’s nightlife scene, a spacious 800 square metre club, complete with top-of-the-line lighting, sound and atmospheric equipment. The main level of the club boasts an inviting dance-floor, leather armchairs with tables, an elevated DJ booth and two unique full service bars. The second level offers an intimate environment with comfortable seating, a VIP area and full service bar. The mezzanine level offers a spectacular view of the club.

Party the night away with angels and witches; have a fun photo taken with Dracula and don’t go for less than the main prize for the most creative outfit. So grab your friends, pick out the scariest costumes and the most ‘horror-istic’ masks you can find and take an extra step this year for a night of fright.

As a uniquely versatile room, Pearl Lounge is one of the few venues that can be transformed into any themed space. It’s known to be the perfect spot to host Fashion Shows, Dance Performances, Corporate Private Functions, Product Launches, Birthday Parties and many more…

Pearl Lounge is open daily, from 5:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. for Happy Hours, and Monday through Saturday from 9:00 p.m. until late for parties. Dinner: 9:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The dress code is smart casual.

ABOUT THE HALLOWEEN PARTY Event: Date: Venue:

Doors Open: Entrance:

Halloween Party Thursday, Nov 1 Pearl Lounge at the Doha Marriott Hotel 10:00 p.m.

Free for all

Ladies get three free beverages before midnight, two free beverages after midnight

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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

A Happening

n e e w Hallo

As told to Jorge Granda

There’s no better night than Halloween to get your freak on at Jazz Up!

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fter the little ghouls and goblins are done trick-or-treating, a party atmosphere may be exactly what the mad scientist ordered and since Halloween falls on a Wednesday this year, treat yourself to some pre-weekend partying. Put on your scariest costume, get into the spooky spirit and do the zombie walk all the way to Jazz Up. To get the party started the club will be festooned with spooktacular decorations, with free entrance for all and a free Bloody Mary cocktail to those who dare to dress in costume for the occasion.

place to just chill out to the smooth tunes of the Doha Jazz Club every Friday.

Their creative menu offers everything from light snacks such as satays, New York-style wings, prawn tempura and nachos, to sushi and cheese platters, sandwiches and some hard-core main courses like the mouth-watering Angus beef burgers with Swiss cheese and the tasty ‘bakmi goring’.

Portions are generous enough to share, and we can’t overlook the reasonably priced selection of drinks and signature cocktails mixed with flair to accompany your meal.

“With free entrance, a refined ambiance and yummy food, Jazz Up is a cool spot to have some fun and scares this Halloween.”

The cozy and newly-renovated club is nestled in the ground floor of the Mövenpick Hotel Doha and is the ideal spot for a refreshing after-work drink or a

With free entrance, a refined ambiance and yummy food, Jazz Up is a cool spot to have some fun and scares this Halloween.

ABOUT JAZZ UP Event: Halloween 2012 Date: Wednesday, October 31 Venue: Jazz Up Address: Mövenpick Hotel Doha Time: 5:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Dress Code: Scary costume Rules and Regulations: Strictly 21+.

4429-1111 Reservations:

Se PO Qa Fa do

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Sealine Beach Resort PO Box 50255 Mesaieed Qatar | Tel +974 4476 5299 Fax +974 4476 5298 doh.sea.res@merweb.com

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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Party-Hoppin’ Happenings

QH’s Jorge Granda delivers an overview of the hottest, hippest bashes in town this month! From Oktoberfest to special theme nights and the comeback of the popular Beach Bar lounge at the Four Seasons, October is packed with great entertainment.

SCORE AT CHAMPIONS The popular sport pub brings more action this month. Starting on Saturday, October 6 fans of Spanish football can watch the exciting live match between powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid. On Sunday October 7, it’s time for cricket aficionados to celebrate the T20 World Cup final.

And the excitement keeps rolling as Manchester United and Chelsea go head to head on Sunday October 28 in a match that promises some of the best football of the month.

Throughout October: Champions League continues with high-class action from around Europe. Follow them on www.facebook.com/WestEndDoha.com for the quickest updates.

BEACH BAR LOUNGE It’s never too late to chill out with Pool Grill’s awaited Beach Bar Lounge, literally footsteps away from the most exclusive private beach in Doha.

Relax and enjoy their selection of Caribbean and South American inspired snacks and beverages from their Tiki bar, while DJ Mike Hobson mixes up his set with some great South American tunes against the backdrop of sparkling city lights and the Arabian Gulf at night.

Event: Beach Bar Lounge Date: Every Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m.– 12:00 midnight Venue: Four Seasons Doha West Bay Address: Time: 6:00 p.m.– 12:00 midnight Prices: Cocktails start from:

QR 75, Mocktails start from: QR 45,

Snack start from: QR 80

MÖVENPICK HAS IT ALL! Whether you’re a jazz fan or you want to enjoy the fun festivities of Oktoberfest, then The Mövenpick Hotel Doha is your one-stop hot-spot.

Be Entertained at Jazz Up The pub is 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 on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Event: Jazz Up Date:

Every day Mövenpick Venue: Hotel Doha Corniche Road Address: Time: 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 midnight Prices: Cocktails start from: QR 75, Mocktails start from: QR 45, Snack start

from: QR 80 Opening hours: 5:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

(Fri to Tues) 5:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

(Wed and Thurs) Dress Code: Casual Smoking: Available

Reservations: 4429-1111

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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE CIGAR NIGHTS AT THE LOUNGE Discover an exclusive selection of Cuban cigars, pair them with your favourite cocktail and indulge in some savoury bites and jazzy sounds from the live band.

Event: Cigar Nights at The Lounge Date: Sundays Venue: The Lounge Kempinski Hotel Address: Time: From 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Dress Code: Casual 4405-3325 or email Reservations: thelounge.doha@kempinski.com

Theme Nights at Hive

Oktoberfest Have a passion for good music and festivity? Join the Oktoberfest fun and relax, have some famous Hofbräu and dance to the live music while snacking on traditional German fare.

Event: Oktoberfest Date: September 21 - October 6 Venue: Jazz Up Address: Mövenpick Hotel Doha Time: 5:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Dress Code: Casual

POSH HIVE Happy Hour The recently opened Hive at the InterContinental Doha The City offers one of the best Happy Hours in town. Join the energetic crowd at Hive and buy one, get one free on selected beverages every evening.

Event: After Work Evening at Hive Date: Every day Venue: Hive Address: InterContinental

Doha The City Time: From 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Casual Dress Code:

Enjoy a choice of theme nights in Hive with tasty bar bites from around the world accompanied by three glasses of vino for QR 180 per person.

Saturday-Greek, Sunday-Italian, MondaySpanish, Tuesday-Asian, WednesdayCheese and vino.

Event: Theme Nights at Hive Date: Saturday to Wednesday evenings Venue: Hive Address: InterContinental

Doha The City Time: From 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Dress Code: Casual

‘KAU KAU’ LUNCH AT TRADER VIC’S Originating from the Cantonese and Hawaiian, ‘kau kau’ is a combination of the Hawaiian word for table: ‘pâkaukau’ and the Chinese word for food: ‘chow chow’. Serving Asian-Polynesian fusion cuisines, Trader Vic’s is now introducing the irresistible Kau Kau lunch.

Create your own delicious ‘Kau Kau’ lunch by choosing three main dishes and one side dish from a variety of appetizing lunch selections for only QR 95. Start with a healthy salad, followed by your chosen ‘Kau Kau’ selection and Trader Vic’s dessert of the day to complete your Hawaiian luncheon. Served within 45 minutes.

Event: ‘Kau Kau’ lunch Date: Sunday to Thursday Venue: Trader Vic’s Address: The Hilton Doha Time: From 12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m.

Dress Code: Casual Reservations: 4423-3118 29

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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

Art of Cocktail Making

Fri 12: Ritz-Carlton Doha. You will be taught an exciting combination of flavours including Habanos signature Breath of Life cocktail.

From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m., QR 225 per guest. For more information call 4484-8504.

411 Doha Exclusive @ Crystal

Fri 12: Coming all the way from the hottest parties of Dubai the one and only DJ Bliss is mixing it up with real flavour. For more information call 4453- 5135.

DJ Klaus & Ameet El Bongo @ Wahm

Admiral’s Club Happy Hour

Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.

ONE OF A KIND Double Up

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Hilton Doha. For every drink ordered, a complimentary duplicate drink is offered with delicious bites at Zawaya from 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

Oktoberfest

Mon 1 – Sat 6: Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

Join in the fun, relax, drink the famous Hofbräu brew and dance to the live music while you sample traditional German snacks. Free entrance. For more information call 4429-1111.

DJ Joey Figuera

Mon 1 – Sat 13: W Doha. Wahm presents the resident DJ of W Barcelona mixing on Mondays to Fridays from 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Shehrazad – Premier League Football

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Radisson Blu Hotel.

The summer of sport continues at Doha’s original sports bar. Watch all the Premier League games live. For more information call 4428-1428.

Judge Jules Special Event

Thurs 4: La Cigale Hotel. With a list of awards that would make the American Olympic team blush, Judge Jules has earned his place amongst the DJ aristocracy. Club 7 at 9:00 p.m. Featuring DJ Jared McCulloch and DJ Roger Choueiry. QR 300 including consumable drinks for gents. No entrance fee for ladies. (Membership required). For more information call 4428-8665

Vino Club Meeting

Mon 8: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy a variety of cheese and canapé dishes in conjunction with exclusive vinos supported by QDC. All to be enjoyed by the panoramic views from La Mer, overlooking the city and Gulf Sea. From 7:00 p.m. onwards. Price per session: QR 350 per person, single membership QR 2,000 or couples QR 3,500. For more information call 4484-8506.

DJ Stephen Karl

Thurs 11, 18 & 25: W Doha. Proudly presenting the legendary house and electro house DJ, coming all the way from the hottest parties of St. Tropez, mixing up the best of the magic. From 11:00 p.m. till late.

For more information call 4453-5135.

Thurs 18: W Doha. W Happenings present London Beats performing from 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5323.

Big Friday Night

Fri 19: W Doha. Crystal proudly presents the No 1 LED Percussionist, Safix, performing live for the first time in Doha with Crystal resident DJ Greg. For more information call 4453- 5135.

Shehrazad Pub Quiz

Mon 29: Radisson Blu Hotel. The original and best pub quiz in town. Bring along your team of six to take part. Quiz starts 8:00 p.m.

For more information call 4428-1428.

EVERY WEEK Ladies Night

Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays: Merwebhotel Central Doha. Special nights for Ladies at M Lounge! Enjoy free entry, free membership and two free selected beverages.

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

Cigar Nights At The Lounge

Sundays: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha. 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. From 8.00 p.m. till 2.00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

DJ Night with DJ Roger Choueiry

Sundays: La Cigale. You are invited to experience a new blast of an eclectic mix of chic and elegance in the renovated Madison Piano Bar integrating a new stylish dining area! A wide range of international salads, finger food, main courses, sushi and sashimi and cigars complimented by an assortment of fine beverages are awaiting your selection.

Ladies joining the DJ nights will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. Open from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee.

No minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8665.

Dress, Mix, Taste At The Lounge

Sundays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. The place to be seen in Doha has refreshed food and drinks menus. Dress up, mix, socialize and taste the famous bites and cocktails of The Lounge. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

Overtime

Sundays - Thursdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha.

Why work overtime? Well, Level 23 gives you a good excuse to do so by 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.

Martini Monday

Mondays: Four Seasons Doha. Library & Cigar Lounge is launching its Martini Mondays. Indulge in a selection of signature creations. For more information call 4494-8888.

Thailand Tonight

Mondays: The Torch Doha. Savour Thai delicacies from the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen at Torch Café. Served from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

New Band At Irish Harp

Mondays - Saturdays: Sheraton Doha.

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.

Crepito Night

Tuesdays: The Torch Doha. Enjoy savoury and sweet crepes from the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen at Torch Café from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Mash-ups With DJ Shadi And DJ Steve KZ

Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. The two resident DJs present their unique mash-up sounds from 10:00 p.m. at Lava with free drinks for ladies all night. For more information call 4484-4444.

Ladies Night At Irish Harp

Tuesdays: Sheraton Doha. 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.

Latino Night

Tuesdays: Merwebhotel Central Doha. The best Latino Night at M Lounge from 8:00 p.m. Enjoy dancing all night long to Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Samba, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Jive, Argentina Tango, and more. Free entrance and membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.

From The Wok

Wednesdays: The Torch Doha. Enjoy stir-fry platters from the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen at Torch Café from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Kiss N’ Fly

Wednesdays: W Doha. Ladies Night at Crystal, where all ladies get three complimentary drinks from 10:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Check-in at Crystal for a special flight with our international DJs. For more information call 4453-5135.

Ladies Big Night Out

Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha.

Smart casuals will kick off the night in Paloma playing live music from 9:00 p.m. followed by DJ Shadi. DJ Paul Mendez will be in Lava from 10:00 p.m. The central door will be open allowing you to pass between the two rooms as you wish. Unlimited free drinks for ladies at the bar in Paloma from 10:00 pm until late. QR 80 entrance for men and ladies enter free of charge.

Membership required. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.

Girls Night Out

Wednesdays: W Doha. A special treat for our female guests that’s surely going to make for an unforgettable night. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. QR 150 for a three-course dinner or QR 200 with passion fruit sparkling sangria. For more information call 4453-5323.

Be Entertained At Jazz Up

Wednesdays & Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. 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.

Habanos Happy Hour

Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one!

From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.

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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

DAILY Rich, Smooth & Mellow

Daily: Sharq Village & Spa. The bitter-sweet notes of rich, dark chocolate set off beautifully the earthy flavours of a fine Scottish malt and the smoky infusion of a fine Cuban cigar. Try this heavenly combination during October at The Cigar Lounge. QR 185 per set. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

Happy Hour @ Pearl Lounge Club

Daily: Unwind in one of the hotspots of Doha’s nightlife scene and enjoy a Happy 3 Hours. Pay 1 get 2 on selected drinks!

From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Mondays – Saturdays from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4429-8444 or email pearlloungedoha@marriotthotels.com.

Paloma

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Introducing new live band the ‘Smart Casuals’: a four-piece from the U.K. playing high-class live music from the 50’s to the present. Paloma serves the best Tex-Mex favourites and screens a wide variety of international sporting events.

For more information call 4484-4444.

Happy Hours

Daily: Sharq Village & Spa. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one! Saturdays – Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at The Cigar Lounge and from 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. at Al Seef. For more information call 4425-6666.

Vintage Lounge

Daily: The St Regis Doha. Evening lounge featuring an extensive cigar menu and vintage drinks complemented by a snack menu. Open from 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

Mix & Fuse At The Lounge

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha.

Mix and socialize 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. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

Glimmer At Glo

Afterwork Aperitivo

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Avoid the rush hour after work and relax with a fruity cocktail and tasty appetizer. Enjoy three happy hours from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at QR 25 on selected beverages, or your favourite cocktail from QR 35. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Daily: W Doha. Enjoy an after work drink and the second drink plus a Tapas plate from the new Mediterranean menu is complementary.

Enjoy chilled beats as only Wahm knows how. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Mondays – Fridays from 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5323.

Be Entertained At Jazz Up

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City.

Join the energetic crowd and buy one, get one free on selected beverages.

From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. The perfect spot to chill out in our contemporary yet intimate surroundings while listening to smooth tunes, indulging in quality drinks and an extensive snacks menu with live entertainment on Wednesdays and Fridays.

For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

After Work At Hive

Shisha Garden

Daily: Oryx Rotana. There’s nothing better than Happy Hour at the Jazz Club after a full day! Now you can bring your friends and make sure your night starts in style! From 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. nightly with a super discount of 30% on selected beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

Daily: La Cigale. Set on a verdant outdoor terrace surrounded by water fountain and greenery, the Shisha Garden has recently set up a flamboyant brick oven where the new Turkish chef prepares some mouthwatering charcoaled barbecue grills to go along with your choice of Oriental Mezzeh and a variety of Shisha in different flavours. From 12:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8702.

Happy Hour At Irish Harp

Happy Hour

Happy Hour At Jazz Club

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Feel like you’re in Ireland in the heart of Doha at the Irish Harp. Enjoy live music and happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4444.

DJ/VJ Tony Schwery

Daily: La Cigale. Warm up your nights with musical video shows played on a giant LED screen followed by mixed live tunes at Sky View. The rooftop bar is extremely irresistible with DJ/VJ Tony Schwery. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable on weekdays. For more information call 4428-8204.

Happy Times @ Champions

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Unwind over an ice cold beverage and cheese fries alongside the big screens; the best seat in town to watch your favourite team. Open 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Get your friends together for Happy Times from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Daily: Merwebhotel Central Doha. Come alive at five. It’s happy hour at M-Lounge.

Doubles for the price of singles on selected beverages daily from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.

After a day’s work, there’s no better place to turn yourself back on. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.

Live Chocolate Making At Criollo

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City.

Criollo boutique luxury chocolatier, where all chocolates are hand-made on site. Live chocolate making from 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Open from 6:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m.

For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Happy Hour @ Crystal Lounge

Daily: W Doha. Buy any drink and get the second one on the house from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

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NOW RADISSON BLU

Radisson Blu Hotel Salwa Road, PO Box 1768, Doha, State of Qatar Tel: +974 4428 1428, Fax: +974 4441 0941 info.doha@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/hotel-doha QH October 2012.indd 33 132642 DOHZH Ad FPP II Meet Qatar Guide UK (210x297).indd 1

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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

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Salsa & Candela

Fridays: Sharq Village & Spa. Join in every weekend for lively Latin sounds and a great atmosphere in The Cigar Lounge.

QR 85 inclusive of a welcome drink.

From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

Sip & Savour

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

Shisha Terrace

Daily: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy your favourite shisha under 1001 stars, in the newly re-opened shisha terrace. Choose from a wide variety while the shisha specialists ensure that you have a full aromatic experience. Saturdays to Wednesdays from 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. and Thursdays and Fridays from 4:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8000.

Party Rok

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

Sparkling Fridays At The Lounge

Fridays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Fridays are bright and sparkling!

All ladies receive two complimentary glasses of bubbly. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

Carnival Party

WEEKEND

Thursdays: W Doha. Let the night take over as international DJs play the best in eclectic house music. For more information call 4453-5135.

Fridays: W Doha. Enjoy a carnival party at Crystal with the DJ Greg’s special twist and elaborate tunes mixed with a sprinkling of Crystal magic. From 10:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Beach Bar Lounge

DJ Roger Choueiry At 7

Fish & Chips Night

Thursdays: Four Seasons Doha. Literally footsteps away from the private beach. Relax and enjoy a selection of Caribbean and South American inspired snacks and beverages from our open bar while chilling and enjoying the panoramic view of Doha at night. From 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Chicken & Beef Fajita Night

Thursdays: The Torch Doha. Enjoy the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen at Torch Café from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Pure Crystal

Thursdays and Fridays: La Cigale.

7 Nightclub presents a special DJ mix party with the renowned DJ Roger Choueiry on board. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee for ladies.

For more information call 4428-8665 (Membership required).

Saturdays: The Torch Doha. Enjoy live food stations while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen at the Torch Cafe from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Burgers & Hot Dogs Night

Fridays: The Torch Doha. Enjoy live food stations while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen at the Torch Café from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

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Catering to Doha’s elite for over 10 years with great quality at great prices. We help you create a day full of extraordinary moments as unique and special as you are.

Whatever the occasion, whatever your style, we have everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind event that will not only be memorable, it will be unforgettable.

Call us on 4467 0670 or email sales@regencyhalls.com

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THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

ARTS & CULTURE

Registration for Fall Community Classes & Portfolio Development Classes

Great Hispanic Fair 2012

Fri 12: Enjoy a Family Day, and discover the Hispanic Culture with a full program of folk music and dance, typical food, traditional crafts, kids activities, raffles and auctions. From 12:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. QR 20 per person, kids go free. For more information call 3347-0209 or email amigas.qatar@yahoo.com.

AIDA Thurs 18 & Sun 21:

Amphitheatre at Katara.

Verdi’s acclaimed opera AIDA is finally coming to Katara.

Featuring more than 80 choristes, 12 ballet dancers, 35 actors and eight of the most renowned Verdi singers of today, together with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Verdi specialist Pier Giorgio Morandi. 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.katara.net.

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa

October – December: VCUQatar. A wide range of community classes in both English and Arabic as part of its mission to provide educational, cultural and design opportunities to the community in Qatar.

For more information and to register for the Fall 2012 classes, please visit www.qatar.vcu.edu, email Annette Wendling-Willeke at awendlingwil@qatar.vcu.edu or call 4402-0555.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha Grand Opening Week Fri 5, Sat 6, Sun 8: The St. Regis Doha.

Don’t miss the grand opening performances of Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha with live performances from The Wynton Marsalis Quintet led by Wynton Marsalis, a multiple Grammy Award winner and Pulitzer Prize winner.

Entrance fee QR 500. QR 675 including a three-course menu in Opal or Vine either before or after the performance.

For more information call 4446-0105 or diningreservations.doha@stregis.com.

UP by Droog Design

Sun 14 –Wed 31: The Gallery at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar.

Initiated by Droog, UP is an investigative economic model that aims to increase the value of dead stock through re-design. An alternative to recycling and disposal, UP treats leftover goods as raw material for creative re-interpretation in order to bring leftovers back into circulation. For more information call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.

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ARTS & CULTURE

1001

INVENTIONS Discover The Golden Age Of Muslim Civilization The ‘1001 Inventions’ comes to the Museum of Islamic Art this month with the internationally-acclaimed show highlighting the golden age of Muslim civilization and its contribution to the realms of culture and science.

T

he origins of modern science owe much to the extraordinary and often forgotten scientific and cultural contributions of Muslim civilization.

Early scientific advancements are steeped in the rich history of the Muslim heritage and ‘1001 Inventions’ will show them to the world. The Qatar Museums Authority (QMA), QATAR Shell and 1001 Inventions have partnered to bring the exhibition to Doha starting on October 17.

The ground-breaking achievements of this era, from the 7th to 17th centuries, will be introduced to residents and visitors through the internationally-renowned and awardwinning display, which will also be held alongside the ‘Arabick Roots’ exhibition, which premiered at the Royal Society in London in 2011.

The 15-week celebration features interactive exhibitions, movies, live shows, cultural events and educational seminars, held at the Museum of Islamic Art and open to the public. “These two exhibitions will encourage Qatar’s younger generation to innovate and contribute towards a better future,” says Mansoor Al Khater, Qatar Museums Authority CEO. “Building from a long history of innovations in Muslim civilization, Qatar is perfectly placed to be a leader in modern science and technological innovations.

Scale model of Al-Jazari’s 13th-century Elephant Clock

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Bilal Townhouses at Qanat Quartier Venetian glamour in Qatar

Be one of the first to get your hands on these classy beachfront townhouses.

Overlooking piazzas and canals, the 3 bedroom townhouses conjure up images of a stay in romantic Venice.Their smart layout allows you to take in the stunning sea views from each and every room in the house.

Far away from the car infested city center, pedestrians can take a walk along the courtyards lined with citrus trees and enjoy every minute of their waterfront life.

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trading & Contracting Co. WLL

For a new home or to book a visit contact us: 4442 8877 | 4442 1188 | 4441 7001 | 557 11488 | 666 71495 | 3378 7871 marketing@ahbqatar.com | www.ahbqatar.com

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ARTS & CULTURE

Artistic impressions of Abbas ibn Firnas and his successful 9th-century flight.

A glimpse

inside the

exhibition.

C

Inspiration From The Past

The exhibitions primary objective is to encourage young people to pursue careers in science and technology. The exhibitions achieve this by bringing to life inspiring, historic role models through films, exhibits, books and educational materials specially designed for schools.

‘1001 Inventions’ exhibition promotes an accurate understanding of the contributions made by men and women who worked together, crossing cultural and religious boundaries to make advances that had enormous impact in mathematics, engineering, medicine, astronomy, chemistry and much more.

“This exhibition aims to celebrate the towering achievements of the past to inspire Qatari youth to create the innovations of the future and build upon the existing accomplishments of this great nation,” says Wael Sawan, Executive Vice President of Qatar Shell.

The exhibition includes many everyday objects many do not know were invented by the giants of the Golden Age of Muslim civilization. It features many models, interactive games and videos that introduce visitors to the works of influential scientists such as the physicist Ibn al-Haytham whose ideas about optics

laid the foundations for the invention of the camera. Also highlighted are the works of master genius engineer Al-Jazari – whose Elephant Clock, created more than 800 years ago, is a masterpiece celebrating the diversity of mankind. Visitors will get to meet Fatima al-Fihri who in the 9th century built the first modern university.

Named Exhibition Of The Year

The ‘1001 Inventions’ exhibition was named the best touring exhibition of the year at the Museums and Heritage Excellence Awards in 2011. It uses technology and interactive exhibits to relate stories of a thousand years of science with an interpretation that’s fun and engaging. The display has already made its way to millions of visitors with residencies in London, New York, Los Angeles, Istanbul and Washington, D.C. Qatar will also welcome the ‘Arabick Roots’ exhibition, which was opened by Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, at its premiere last year at the Royal Society in London.

Doha will also play host to a range of events including inspirational educational films about the history of Muslim

civilization, poetry readings, live shows and academic seminars to complement the exhibitions. Schoolteachers and parents from across Qatar will have a chance to introduce the nation’s young people to the inspirational role models featured within the two exhibits.

Arrival In Doha

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Both exhibitions will arrive in Doha this fall. The ‘1001 Inventions’ exhibition will be set up in the Museum of Islamic Art Park from 17 October to November 12, whereas the Doha version of the ‘Arabick Roots’ exhibition, specially curated for local audiences through collaboration between ‘1001 Inventions’ and the Museum of Islamic Art, will be open to the public at MIA from October 17, 2012 to January 19, 2013.

This special focus will reveal rich and surprising connections between the scientific pioneers of Muslim civilization and Europe’s greatest scholars and scientists, showing that then – just like today – collaboration across linguistic and cultural boundaries can lead to great results.

For more information on the exhibit log on to www.1001inventions.com or the Museum of Islamic Art at innovate.mi.org.qa

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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

m l i F Fever

Ali Ali, oun, Mahdi Ali Ali, L-R: Sonya Shaykh d Zia Christian Routh, Noor Ahmed Yaqub, i, Al ayed, Mahdi Doueiri, Adulla Al-S it Representatives Un nt me Gulf Develop

By Laura Prior Photography courtesy of the Doha Film Institute

As summer temperatures simmer down Doha starts to feel the fervour of film fever as the 6th Doha Tribeca Film Festival (DTFF) approaches. QH takes five with Mr. Mahdi Ali Ali, Manager of the Doha Film Institutes (DFI) Gulf Development Unit, to hear about their sprouting grass-roots initiatives as we get a glimpse of the plans for what’s set to be Qatar’s cultural event of the year!

QH: How important a department is the Gulf Development Unit in DFI’s contribution to the growth of the local film scene?

MAA: It’s integral. It’s considered to be the starting point for new screenwriters to help lay the foundations for an industry infrastructure here in Qatar; establishing the creation of an economically viable national film industry.

QH: How are you working to encourage young Qataris in particular into the film industry?

QH: What can we expect at the DTFF 2012 in terms of grass-roots initiatives?

MAA: Through the programs we run, we present a series of interconnected workshops for new Qatari screenwriters who have had limited formal film training.

This helps then develop their skills rapidly, so that they can learn how to write a viable short or feature-length film screenplay.

MAA: We have expanded the festival to eight days this year to give the community more opportunities to interact. It gives people more exposure to the various initiatives and events as well as being able to watch more films. The ‘Made in Qatar’ section will continue in DTFF 2012 with even more opportunities being offered to support Qatari talents.

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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE QH: What are the long-term goals of the GDU and how can it ensure a more home-grown Film Festival in years to come?

MAA: Through a series of workshops and intense project tuition with international experts, we will create an environment in which these filmmakers will be able to compete on equal terms with those practitioners who are working in more established film cultures in other countries.

The Unit will introduce further workshops including short film production, acting for film and other development programs too.

Keeping It Reel

The Gulf Development Unit is the latest in a series of film education and training initiatives launched by DFI for filmmakers in Qatar and the GCC region.

Established in 2010 to incorporate Qatar’s film initiatives under one banner; the Doha Film Institute (DFI) is ‘‘an independent cultural organization organically supporting the growth of the local film community by enhancing industry knowledge, cultivating film appreciation and contributing to the development of sustainable creative industries in Qatar. DFI’s year-round platforms include funding and production of local, regional and international films, educational programs, film screenings’’, and the jewel in its crown – the flourishing, annual Doha Tribeca Film Festival!

With the 6th Festival eagerly anticipated, all roads lead to an expected 50,000+ film fans who will cast their eye and have their say on the work DFI has been doing yearround. This year, audiences are promised a more comprehensive and enriching cultural

experience with new screening venues across Doha as indoor and outdoor showings will take place at Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village and the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA).

Scheduled to be held from November 17 to 24, 2012, this year’s event will shine the spotlight on Algeria, celebrating 50 years of the country’s independence. DTFF 2012 will pay tribute to the country’s rich cinematic history and its contribution to the evolving MENA film landscape, through a compelling showcase of classic and newage Algerian films. Personally, we can’t wait ‘til they roll tape!

Keep switched on to all the festival news and updates at DFI’s website: www.dohafilminstitute.com

DTFF N

Volunte EEDS YOU ! er will gain to be a part of the acti industry on screenin experie gs and nce, att ! You worksh e a partic nd ops ipa making tion certificate and receive th .C festival is internationa ontribute to lly reno a succe wned fi ss - reg now! Lo lm istra g www.d on here for all tion is open the info ohafilm : filmfes in tival/vo stitute.com / luntee r

PREMIER PEEK!

Middle DTFF 2012 will open with the re of Mira mie East and North African pre entalist’ dam Fun ant Nair’s ‘The Reluct son, Kiefer Hud e Kat er, reib Sch starring Liev No on vember Sutherland and Riz Ahmed 17th at Katara.

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BestShow in ARTS & CULTURE

The World Stars of Russian Ballet pirouette into Doha this month with a stellar performance at the Qatar National Convention Center.

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allet-lovers can mark October 26 on their calendars as the stars of Russian ballet come to Qatar.

Following its huge success in Paris at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées and in London at the London Coliseum Theatre, the World Stars of Russian Ballet are set for an exhilarating performance.

The event is presented by the Maris Liepa Charitable Foundation and Gazprom under the support of the Russian Embassy, brought to you by Olympic City and organized by M Premiere.

“This is the first trip for us and it’s such a privilege to finally be performing to such a diverse community,” says Andris Liepa, director, ballet star and the ‘People’s Artist of Russia’. “We have a great repertoire in our performance and we hope to be able to show a glimpse of the dancers’ technicality in this event. We hope audiences will enjoy what we’ve put together because we would certainly like to come back to Qatar.”

The Program

In homage to the works of Diaghilev selected performances for the evening’s events include:

The show’s theme will focus on the best of ballet legend Sergey Diaghilev’s ‘Russian Seasons’ series. Founder of the Ballet Russes, Diaghilev lived from 1872-1929 and made a name for himself pushing the boundaries of the dance and revolutionizing it through innovative music, design and choreography.

During his years as curator and director of the Ballet Russes, he collaborated with avant-garde composers and artists, putting names such as Ravel, Debussy and Stravinsky together with designers like Bakst and Goncharova and emerging artists of the time period including Picasso and Matisse. A consummate producer, Diaghilev made a major contribution to the introduction of Modernism in ballet and though his initiatives were succeeded

by new trends and styles, no one single person has changed the course of art so radically since his time.

‘Corsair’ pas de deux ‘No Matter What’ ‘Gisele’ pas de deux ‘Nutcracker’ pas de deux ‘Don Quixote’ pas de deux ‘Illusive Ball’ pas de deux ‘Meeting’ ‘Sheherezade’ pas de deux ‘Swan Lake’ pas de deux (Black) ‘Swan Lake’ adagio (White)

The Performers

Ticket Information

Here’s a sneak peek of some of the stars from the renowned Bolshoi Theatre, Mariynsky Theatre and the Kremlin Ballet Theatre who’ll be taking the stage: Ilze Liepa Mariana Ryzhkina Andrey Batalov Natalia Krapivina Georgi Smilevski Danila Korsuntsev Natalia Balakhnicheva Mikhail Martynyuk Alexandra Timofeeva

Where: Qatar National

Convention Center Theatre When: October 26, 2012,

Doors open at

7:00 p.m., Show

starts at 8:00 p.m.

Ticket Prices: VIP: QR 750

Platinum: QR 500 Gold: QR 350

Silver: QR 200 Tickets are available for purchase at Virgin Megastores and mpremiere.com.

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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

HE’S GOT

STYLE

By Ola Diab Photography by Jessie Palanca Location: The Torch Hotel Doha

Fahad Al Oba

idly

QH gets up close and personal with Fahad Al Obaidly, one of Qatar’s only male up-and-coming fashion designers.

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iorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford are some of the biggest names in fashion—and they’re men, which makes their success all the more compelling. Then came along Fahad Al Obaidly who’s mirroring the steps of these internationally-recognized names by choosing a path that very few men choose to take, not only in Qatar but in the entire Middle East. Al Obaidly is a fashion designer here in Doha—a career that’s considered to be a female’s forte.

style and by the common Arabian fashion phenomena, the sailor, or Sinbad look.

“I have an Easterner’s blood and a Westerner’s mind,” he says. “I put many ideas together and that’s what makes my designs and my line very unique because there are two cultures in them.” The show was such a success that his label had to set up an extra production outlet in Thailand to accommodate people’s demands for the outfits they saw on the runway.

“I created a new field for Qatar where men can become fashion designers.”

The 27-year-old held his first fashion show on May 29 at the Grand Hyatt where he showcased his first line of clothing for men from his label, Fumée Fashion. Al Obaidly’s show was the first for a man in the country and was attended by a crowd of over 500 people.

Before following his love for fashion, Al Obaidly obtained a degree in public relations. For a few years, he was a Relationship Manager at HSBC in Qatar.

He began working on his fashion design career three years ago when he joined Al Bayan Academy in Kuwait before heading off to the Instituto Marangoni or La Maranga in Italy, a leading Italian-origin fashion and design institute in Milan, London and Paris. Throughout his three years of study as a fashion designer, Al Obaidly also took up summer classes at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar (VCU-Q).

His designs are a combination of Eastern and Western cultures, inspired in equal part by Michael Jackson’s emblematic

“For three years, I ‘ve been learning, travelling, researching and designing,” he said. “I used to practice

“I see it as a credit,” says Al Obaidly about being a Qatari male fashion designer. “I can add to the talent of Qatar because it’s known that Qatari people are good in business and establishing themselves as many things, but I created a new field in Qatar where men can become fashion designers.”

by designing clothes for my female friends but not as a business so I didn’t think of creating my own label, [until] I saw the strong feedback and the support of people to have my own company. From that time on, I decided to create Fumée Fashion.”

Al Obaidly decided to establish Fumée Fashion as an exclusively men only fashion label because he realized there isn’t a fashion brand solely for men in the Arab world. “So I want to focus on that to become exceptional in the field,” he said.

Al Obaidly’s fashion show at the Grand Hyatt wasn’t his last. He’s working on his next runway show in December where he’ll present his new collection. In October, Al Obaidly is releasing his first Halloween collection. The young designer is also showcasing his latest men collection on MENA’s Next Top Designer, a fashion reality TV show airing on Sept 7 on MBC 4. His collections will also be on the stages of The Pearl-Qatar Fashion Week and Qatar Fashion Week in November.

Shortly he’ll be moving his six-month-old label, Fumée Fashion, to Paris where the city will be the home or official boutique of the label, but it will still hold on to its Qatari origins. Barwa Village in Al Wakra

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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE City is the current home of Fumée Fashion.

Al Obaidly is also working on a shoot for the advertisement of Fumée Fashion, which will be screened on Qatar TV and Dubai One TV. Al Obaidly comes from a family who has an eye for art, so when he broke the news about taking up fashion designing as a profession, his family was very understanding. “Many people actually ask me, how about your family?” he said. “I don’t see it as a problem for me because the way I was raised is totally different from other families. It is something very acceptable.” His father is a petroleum engineer but his main hobby is drawing.

Al Obaidly took after his mother who also has a passion for designing clothes, though she never took it up professionally. “My wife always says how lucky she is to be married to man with an eye for fashion,” he tells us.

While attending fashion shows on a trip around Italy and France, Al Obaidly often encountered designers who carry the same notion, asking him how is it that he’s a male fashion designer in a country where it’s out of the norm. Ironically, he hasn’t received negative criticism for choosing a unique career. “The whole situation has changed,” said Al Obaidly. “Men do women’s work and women do men’s work as well, so I don’t think it will be an issue anymore. Qatar has developed in an extraordinary way in the last six years.”

We see many like Fahad Al Obaidly breaking norms in Qatar through various different ways. As the country continues to develop economically, it continues to encourage new ideas, changing the local mindsets rich with tradition and culture.

Young men and women in Qatar are going against the wind in this small yet powerful Arabian Peninsula to follow their passions. More importantly, they’re creating a bridge between the West and the East and Al Obaidly chooses to connect the two worlds through fashion, holding on to his “Eastern blood and a Western mind.”

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SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Northern Exposure

By Ashlee Starratt Photos courtesy of the Idea of North

The ASD Concert Series opens its fall season with a very special vocal group from Down Under – The Idea of North quartet.

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The Idea of North

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hat do you get when you combine four friends with an intense passion for music and enough vocal talent to make international waves? You get The Idea of North. The Australian group laid their roots down in Canberra in the mid-90s and haven’t looked back since. With each member lending their unique soprano, alto, tenor and bass vocal stylings to the quartet the group has enjoyed wide-spread accolades outside their home borders.

classical, gospel and pop, versatility is the bread and butter of their success – no two shows are the same and audiences should expect the unexpected. The group will also have a thing or two to teach students at ASD – an exciting experience for young musicians.

“ASD is thrilled to be

The Idea of North “The group will hosting at our school,” says also have a thing Gail Seay, Director Curriculum and or two to teach ofProfessional Learning at ASD. “We believe that an students at ASD important part of learning – an exciting happens beyond the walls of the traditional classroom. experience for Providing students with the to work with young musicians”. opportunity such wonderful musicians

With three albums and numerous international awards and performances under their belt, including gigs at the prestigious Lincoln Center in New York and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., the group is touching down in Qatar for the first time to kick off the ASD Concert Series with a bang. Featuring a mix of genre-bending sounds including jazz,

as Naomi, Nick, Andrew and Sally is a great opportunity. Not only are they talented performers, but they’re inspirational educators. It’s a real treat for our students to learn from the best. They’ll be ‘workshopping’ with the group during the day and may even have the opportunity to perform with them as well.”

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So how did a group from the Southern Hemisphere look north for their name?

The quartet borrowed their moniker from Glenn Gould’s iconic radio documentary of the same name that was originally broadcast in 1967 on Canada’s CBC Radio.

The show explored the ‘idea’ versus the reality of life in Canada’s remote North.

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With their latest album, ‘Extraordinary Tale’ released last year and clocking in at number six on the international jazz charts with an ARIA award nomination, the quartet will be performing a compilation of their best works with a few delightful aural surprises thrown in for good measure. A sure treat for the eardrums! Want to learn more about The Idea of North? Check out their website at www.idea.com.au or email asdchambermusic@gmail.com for performance dates and ticket details.

The ASD Concert Series is presented by the American School of Doha and is sponsored by IBQ with support from the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

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ARTS & CULTURE

AIDA Live In

Concert At Katara

Iconic opera AIDA is set to light up Katara’s Amphitheatre with over 200 performers as the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and Giuseppe Verdi specialist Pier Giorgio Morandi to come together in Doha for the first time!

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atara, the Cultural Village, welcomes the critically-acclaimed opera, AIDA, composed by Giuseppe Verdi. The event will mark the first live performance at Katara’s magnificent Amphitheatre, open to the public. Opening on Thursday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m., the opera will continue with an additional performance on Saturday, October 21 at 7:30 p.m.

AIDA, conducted by Giovanni Bottesini was first performed at the Khedivial Opera House in Cairo on December 25, 1871. An opera in four acts, AIDA tells the tale of a forbidden love of Aida, a Nubian princess, captured and enslaved by the Egyptian army. She falls in love with ambitious Egyptian soldier, Radames promised to the King’s daughter Amneris.

She is faced with the decision of choosing between her own true love and her loyalty to the people.

Rim

Kocan

Garcia President of Katara, Abdulrahman Al-Khulaifi said: “We are delighted to host the world renowned opera, AIDA at Katara’s Amphitheatre which provides the perfect back-drop for such an iconic piece of theatrical art. Katara is dedicated to showcasing the diverse cultures of the world; this event is a testimonial of our commitment to the growth of the arts and culture scene in the Middle East.

The Amphitheatre doesn’t only provide a spectacular location but an enthralling experience, taking you back in time.”

Verdi’s acclaimed opera brings together over 80 choruses, 12 ballet dancers, and 35 actors who come together with eight of the world’s most famous Verdi singers. Under the baton of Verdi specialist Pier Giorgio Morandi, performers will join forces with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra to bring Qatar music at its best. AIDA showcases set-design masterpieces by the

renowned Igor Mitoraj, known for his unique sculptural work.

In December 2011, Katara’s Amphitheatre was officially inaugurated with a rare, outstanding, live performance by world-renowned Greek Composer, Vangelis, best known for his iconic, award-winning musical score for the film ‘Chariots of Fire’. The Amphitheatre was designed by Cansault Maunsil LTD and Architectural Consulting Group U.A.E and completed in the year 2008. The 3,275 square metre theatre is a crafted balance between the classical Greek theatre concept and the everlasting Islamic features, standing firm in the heart of Katara overlooking the radiant blue sea of Qatar. The Amphitheatre will host major events in Doha from all over the world with the capacity to accommodate 5,000 people.

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Qatar

GIUSEPPE VERDI'S OPERA LIKE YOU'VE NEVER SEEN IT BEFORE

AIDA 18 th and 21 st of October 2012 at 7:30 pm Katara Amphitheater

Verdi’s acclaimed opera AIDA is finally coming to Katara.

First performed in 1871 in Egypt, this production in set and costumes of the world famous sculptor Igor Mitoraj, with more than 80 choristes, 12 ballet dancers, 35 actors and 8 of the most renowned Verdi singers of today, together with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Verdi specialist Pier Giorgio Morandi.

Don’t miss AIDA, a visual and musical feast at Katara for 2 nights only on the 18 th and 21 st of October at 7:30 pm. www.katara.net

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ARTS & CULTURE

Culture At Katara QH shines a light on the wealth of cultural activities going on at Katara this month.

Japanese Dance and Music Omnibus from Popular Theatre Scenes October 22 -23, 2012 7:30 p.m. – 8.30 p.m.

Drama Theater, Building 16 As part of the ‘Qatar Japan 2012’ project to celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Embassy of Japan is organizing a Japanese popular theatre performance by ‘Kengeki Harukomaza’ in cooperation with Human and Cultural Exchange General Incorporated Association and with the full support of Katara.

Japanese popular theatre, distinguished from traditional theatre in the 20th century, has been loved by the general public for its casual, entertaining presentation, best described as a Japanese musical comedy.

‘Kengeki Harukomaza’ is recognized as one of the most creative popular theatre troupes in Japan led by the charismatic performer, Mr. Ryu Tsugawa. They will perform an omnibus of Japanese dance and music from popular theatre scenes. The audience can understand the performance without the knowledge of the Japanese language.

A highlight of the show is that some actors impersonate beautiful women and some actresses also play the role of cool men, creating a mystical world with a wide variety of performances. ‘Japanese Dance and Music Omnibus from Popular Theatre Scenes’ is specifically tailored for their show in Qatar. As the State of Qatar is one of the largest contributors 58 QH October 2012.indd 58

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ARTS & CULTURE

supporting Japan after the Great East Japan Earthquake, ‘Kengeki Harukomaza’, on behalf of the Japanese people, would like to extend their gratitude to the people and the Government of Qatar for their kind and generous support.

L’Elisir d’Amore, the Metropolitan Opera HD Live Series October 13, 2012 7:55 p.m.

Drama Theater, Building 16 Katara is now among the 60 countries worldwide that joined The Metropolitan Opera High Definition Live Series.

Spectators will have the opportunity to experience grand opera straight from the stage of the Met in New York, as Katara presents 12 operas for the 2012-2013 season.

The season opens on October 13 with Donizetti’s ‘L’Elisir d’Amore’, starring Anna Netrebko, Matthew Polenzani, Mariusz Kwiecien and Ambrogio Maestri, who also form part of the AIDA cast performing on October 18 at Katara’s amphitheatre.

Anna Netrebko and Mathew Polenzani star in Barlett Sher’s new production of one of the greatest comic gems in opera, as the fickle Adina and her besotted Nemorino. Mariusz Kwiecien is the blustery sergeant Belcore and Ambrogio Maestri is Dulcamara, the loveable quack and dispenser of the elixir. Maurizio Benini conducts.

Othello, the Metropolitan Opera HD Live Series October 27, 2012 7:55 p.m.

Drama Theater, Building 16 Katara continues its HD live screenings in collaboration with the Metropolitan Opera of New York, bringing Verdi’s Shakespearean masterpiece with Johan Botha in the title role opposite the acclaimed Desdemona of star soprano Renée Fleming. Semyon Bychkov conducts.

‘I Dream of Jinn’: Eric Pernes October 23 – November 24 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Building 19, Gallery 2 Eric Pernes has worked with Katara’s Curator to develop the current exhibition discussing the theme of Orientalism and more precisely, ‘Neo-Orientalism’ as interpreted by the artist. The works selected for the exhibition illustrate, as Deena Aljuhani Abdulaziz writes in the catalogue published for this exhibition, “the effects of globalization on a rapidly evolving Middle East, this kind of art ultimately highlights a cross-cultural conversation that has been going on for centuries.”

Some of the highlighted pieces presented reference the well-known American sitcom first aired in 1965, ‘I Dream of Jeannie’.

The show featured Barbara Eden as a 2,000-year-old genie and Larry Hagman as an astronaut who becomes her master.

For the purposes of the current exhibit the artist uses this popular media culture series to explore Arab and Middle Eastern identity representations in the West and in the Middle East, in contemporary culture.

And also perceptions of Arabs and of the Middle East, by the West. By doing so, it discusses identity constructs Arabs and Middle Eastern peoples adopt for themselves based on Western perceptions of their culture and identity.

This is an exhibition about cultural dialogue and bridges between reality and perception, both of Western culture and Arab and Middle Eastern cultures in general. The artists will be in residency at KAS for four weeks and several dedicated workshops with Qatar-based artists and the general public will be offered.

For further details please contact education@katara.net.

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ARTS & CULTURE LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

STER REGI INE ONL eekly 5

eW for th sletter m new pening.co p a h r ata ww.q

w

Visual & Studio Arts

Saturdays – Thursdays: IAID. The Visual and Studio Arts Program is a progressive course from Beginners, Advance and Fine Arts 1 & 2 that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception and portraits with the use of various art mediums. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

ONE OF A KIND How To Listen To Jazz

Wed 10 – Sat 13: St. Regis Hotel Doha.

Join us as we explore various different ways of listening to Jazz music. We will show you what to listen for in a jazz performance and how to determine what is happening between the musicians on the bandstand. Whether it’s contemporary jazz, free jazz, traditional jazz or cool jazz anyone can find their flavour in the music and enjoy what it has to offer. 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. QR 250 including jazz mocktails and Jazz at Lincoln Center snacks. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations.doha@stregis.com.

The Blues In Jazz

Tues 16 – Sat 20: St. Regis Hotel Doha.

The Blues is essential to Jazz music and without it Jazz wouldn’t be the same.

We will explain why this is so and why everyone has the blues. 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. QR 250 including jazz mocktails and Jazz at Lincoln Center snacks. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations.doha@stregis.com.

Muse As Inspiration

Mon 22 – Wed 24: St. Regis Hotel Doha.

Many times great artists are inspired by other people. This is not only the case in Jazz, but also in other art forms too. We will explore some of the history behind who inspired what and why. 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. QR 250 including jazz mocktails and Jazz at Lincoln Center snacks. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations.doha@stregis.com.

WEEKLY IAID Music Courses

Saturdays - Thursdays: IAID. Offers 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 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

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THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

COMMUNITY

Mums Night Out

Tues 9: Jones the Grocer. Join Doha Mums for a great night to meet new people. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

Doha Mums Autumn Market

Sat 6: Radisson Blu Hotel. Shop to your heart’s content from 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m.

Vendors from Dubai will be coming for this market as well, offering clothing, jewellery and other wares not otherwise available in Doha. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

Workshop for Families Sat 6 & 13, Sat 20 & 27:

Museum of Islamic Art. Join this fun two-part workshop and discover the stories behind the portraits of Shahs and Sultans from the Persian and Ottoman Empires. Age Group: 6-10 years. From 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information email mmoura@qma.org.qa.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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NaNoWriMo Write-In #2

Sun 28: All writers welcome: non-WriMo’s, non-novelists and non-conformists alike. Drop in and out at your convenience. Bring a full battery on your laptop or an adapter so you can plug in.

From 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

New Arrivals Coffee

Mondays: Grand Heritage Hotel. Join the Doha Mums in welcoming prospective members to Doha. From 9:30 a.m. No RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

HOPE FOR A CURE

By Ola Diab

October is International Breast Cancer Awareness Month and QH shines a light on the rate of disease here in Qatar and the efforts being made to raise awareness about prevention and early detection.

hi Doctor Mahssen Okas ca lan Pa e ssi Je it: ed Cr Photo

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reast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide.

One in eight women have it and that statistic is no different in Qatar.

In this conservative country, however, the setback isn’t just the illness, but the fear and shame women feel to say they have breast cancer, which prevents them from getting the necessary diagnosis and treatment.

“People consider breast cancer as a stigma here,” says 62-year-old Egyptian, Dr. Mahssen Okashi, the Health Education program coordinator at Al Amal Hospital in Doha, which is also known as the National Center for Cancer Care

and Research. “They think it’s their fault [that they have breast cancer]. They don’t understand that it’s a disease like any other disease. It’s not contagious and the disease doesn’t kill if it’s discovered early.” In Okashi’s eyes, the main reason for the mortality rate of breast cancer in the country is as a result of women approaching treatment in the advanced stages because of their reluctance to admit they have the illness.

Al Amal Hospital reports that 20 per cent of cancer cases receiving treatment in 2007 were breast cancer among women, these statistics are bolstered on the University of Calgary - Qatar’s (UCQ) website. The Gulf Centre for Cancer Registration ranked Qatar as third highest in the Middle East, just after Bahrain and Kuwait, for breast cancer prevalence from 1988-2002.

“The most important weapon to [fight breast cancer] is to discover they have the cancer in the early stages,” said Okashi.

Screening and early detection reduces breast cancer mortality by 30-35 per cent.

Many share Okashi’s concerns.

“Living in fear is worse than living with cancer,” said Amani Halawa, a 27-year-old Jordanian breast cancer survivor and administrative coordinator of the Hayat Cancer Support Group.

The group consists of 30-35 cancer survivors, both male and female, of various nationalities. Established in October 2009

by Ellie Le Baron, a breast cancer survivor and wife of former American Ambassador Joseph Le Baron, the Hayat Cancer Support Group holds monthly meetings to discuss educational programs, assists cancer patients personally–by phone or email and speaks to schools, businesses and other cancer support groups and charities to raise awareness. “We are living proof that it’s curable,” said Halawa.

There are two main types of breast cancer, which are Ductal carcinoma and Lobular carcinoma. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the world’s largest medical library, Ductal carcinoma is the most common breast cancer. Lobular carcinoma starts in the parts of the breast, called lobules that produce milk. Breast cancer rarely starts in other areas of the

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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY breast. The next most leading cancers among women are colorectal, lung and ovarian cancer.

The University of Calgary - Qatar (UCQ) has been awarded a research grant of $1,010,343 to study, “Factors that Influence Breast Cancer Screening Practices Amongst Arabic Women Living in the State of Qatar.” Dr. Tam Truong Donnelly, an Associate Professor in UCQ, is the Lead Principal Investigator of the project, which is to be completed by November 2013. The breast cancer mortality rate in Qatar was 12.9/100,000, said Donnelly, referring to the World Health Organization (WHO) statistics published in 2008 (the most recent stats).

to raise awareness about the cancer. Al Amal Hospital, Hayat and other cancer organizations or support groups also hold events and visit schools and universities during October to educate people about the disease.

In Halawa’s eyes, there are many things people are oblivious to about the illness and the services Qatar provides.

“People think doctors here are not good enough so they go outside of the country,” she said. In the past, when cancer patients go for treatment, only one doctor attends them, giving them only a few options. Now, more than one doctor attends a cancer patient, giving him/her many options to choose from for treatment.

“Some people go abroad because they don’t want people to know they have cancer,” added Halawa. She has also encountered people who prefer herbal treatment and/or homemade remedies as an alternative instead of seeking treatment at hospitals.

“We are living proof that it’s curable.”

“What we want to determine is how Arab women view breast cancer screening.

The information gathered will be used to formulate an appropriate educational program and health services that will be Qatari-sensitive and Qatari-appropriate to promote screening activity for Arab women,” says Donnelly on the university’s website.

Breast cancer has an entire month dedicated to it. Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) is held every October as an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities around the world to raise awareness of the disease. Although the month is observed differently around the globe, it’s an opportunity for charities to raise funds for research to determine its causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.

Although people in Qatar have become aware of cancer – especially breast cancer, there’s still more to be done to raise awareness. “We need to use media better,” Halawa says. She believes that to create more awareness, visual storytelling is the most powerful tool for people to understand breast cancer through the eyes of people who have survived the illness. Furthermore, the involvement of locals in support groups and in raising awareness would have greater impact.

“I always look for locals to participate.

Their mentality is different,” said Halawa.

“They need to see somebody who managed, survived and is not ashamed to talk about it and that’s why [it’s important for them to see someone who isn’t ashamed] because they feel guilty as if they have done something wrong.”

No matter the situation or stage of breast cancer someone is in, (men have breast cancer too), Okashi and Halawa want to assure people that the illness is curable—90% curable, said Okashi. Even if the cancer is discovered in its advanced stages, it’s still curable.

“It’s like diabetes and these things, you have to deal with it slowly,” said Eid. These survivors believe in one survival kit—optimism—that’s the key to gaining strength to fight breast cancer.

For a comprehensive breast cancer self-examination guide visit: www.breastcancer.org.

Think Pink Events October 19: Tour de Pink Bicycle Ride

Qatar Golf Club to

Al Khor Community Centre Celebrations with food, local artists and a live band after the event November 2: Think Pink Breast Cancer Walk

5:30 p.m., Doha Corniche

From Museum of

Islamic Art to the Sheraton Park

“Breast cancer teaches you to appreciate life better,” says Egyptian Amany Eid, another breast cancer survivor and member of the Hayat Cancer Support Group. “You begin to appreciate life day by day, especially family time.”

BCAM has become institutionalized in Qatar where annually, Think Pink organizes a walk at the Doha Corniche, a common landmark for awareness campaigns in the country. Harley Davidson Doha’s team has also made it a tradition to drive along the waterfront 63 QH October 2012.indd 63

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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

By Laura Prior Photography by Jessie Palanca

This month QH takes a stroll down vocation lane as we learn how the Bedaya Center for Entrepreneurship & Career Development is supporting local business brains to bring their big ideas to fruition! We joined Yasmeen Hassan, Bedaya’s Entrepreneurship Development Manager at their monthly networking event and spoke to some of Qatar’s future tycoons first hand.

QH: Why is it important to support entrepreneurship in growing economies such as Qatar?

Yasmeen Hassan

QH: Sum up what the Center does and why it was established?

YH: Bedaya Center is a joint venture between Qatar Development Bank and Silatech. Bedaya is the Arabic word for ‘start’ so we like to see ourselves as the place you would come to if you’re looking to start a business or career. We also organize and participate in a number of events and forums in Qatar and the region.

YH: Entrepreneurs are the backbone of any growing economy. They are the people who have the ideas that turn into viable businesses which in turn can create new jobs, new markets and bring investment and focus to any country. It’s very important to support entrepreneurs whether through training, funding, incubation or by revising regulations and eliminating red tape to make it easier to setup and start a business.

QH: What would be your one piece of advice for any young potential entrepreneurs out there?

YH: Becoming an entrepreneur is not an easy path to take. My advice is to stay strong and remain fearless. You know why you are here and if you continue to believe in yourself you will eventually make it through.

QH: How can people get involved?

YH: Our doors are open for anyone who would like advice and support on career development or entrepreneurship. You can visit our offices in Katara, Building 30, email us at info@bedaya.qa or call us at 4408-0268. Follow us on Twitter @bedayacenter or Facebook at Bedayacenter.

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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

Services & Programs Offered At The Bedaya Center • Counseling sessions with Bedaya advisors. (One-on-one sessions with their expert advisors where you can discuss your business ideas confidentially, get advice on how to become investment-ready and devise your action plan.)

Mohamed Ajmal: Training Consultancy Partner & Entrepreneur ‘’I am only 27 yet since establishing ‘Savoy Global’ I have trained over 40,000 people. This is what being an entrepreneur means to me – touching as many people as you can in a positive way through what you do.’’

Aisha Al Baker: Salon Owner & Entrepreneur ‘’I have always dreamed of owning my own chain of beauty salons and I am now planning to open my second ‘Delight Saloon’ for women! Qatar is a fantastic place to realize your business dreams but you must be patient.’’

• They provide business drop-in clinics with the help and support of their partners where they link you with industry experts who can answer all your business questions. They also run clinics on branding, financial advisory, feasibility studies and legal issues.

• Training programs and workshops that cover a range of areas including marketing, building business plans, public speaking, presentation skills, CV writing and more.

• They also run monthly networking events every 2nd Sunday of each month, with the aim to create a platform where people can connect and share experiences and advice.

Bedaya’s next networking event is on Oct 14. Check out www.bedaya.qa for the latest updates on all their news and events.

Stefan Lindberg-Jones, Local Entr

epreneur

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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

Where There’s

Smoke…

By Khalifa Saleh Haroon

In keeping with this month’s theme of cancer prevention and health, I Love Qatar fills you in on the country’s smoking regulations and the ongoing campaign to encourage the nation to butt out.

Who smokes?

It’s not considered acceptable for Qatari women to smoke. Shisha is generally considered more acceptable, but most Qatari women still do not smoke shisha in public. Not all Arabs share this view and it’s common to see Lebanese families enjoying a shisha together after a pleasant meal in Souq Waqif!

are just as smoky as the pubs and nightclubs of the U.K. and America in the past.

Taxes and prices Despite the anti-smoking stance taken by the government, prices remain low when compared to the U.K. or the U.S. A pack of Marlboros in a local shop will set you back around QR 9 or about $2.

Attitude

Shisha

Qatar has an active anti-smoking policy in place and an anti-smoking unit at the Supreme Council of Health to enforce it.

Surgeries and hospitals are festooned with posters and images and there are strict anti-smoking laws in place.

‘Shisha’ is the local name for the hookah or water pipe, also known as ‘hubbly bubbly’ or the ‘narghile’. It’s commonly thought to be safer than smoking, with smokers believing that the water strains the impurities out of the smoke. This belief has survived for centuries, with legend stating that the physician Hakim Abul Fath invented the device for the Emperor Akbar in order to render the Emperor’s smoking habit “harmless”.

Laws and Regulations It’s illegal to smoke in enclosed public places such as malls and most restaurants and cafés. While the law has at times been openly flouted, more recently very hefty fines have been handed out to people breaking the law. It is, however, legal to smoke outside at cafés and restaurants and with Qatar’s sunny climate that means the restriction is not a huge problem for most of the year. In some restaurants there are also completely enclosed areas where smokers can enjoy their cigarettes. Despite the regulations on public places, it remains legal to smoke in bars and lounges which

pseudo-science, denying that shisha is more harmful than cigarettes.

Whether it’s safe or not remains controversial. Some anti-smoking groups maintain that it’s many times worse than smoking and that the tin foil used may add carcinogens to the mix. In addition, if not properly cleaned, water pipes at cafés may harbour harmful bacteria that can be passed from customer to customer. However, websites like the Sacred Narghile (www.sacrednarghile.com) maintain this is

Electronic Cigarettes Although electronic cigarettes are banned in neighbouring Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E., there doesn’t seem to be a strong policy on them in Qatar.

While you can’t buy the devices directly in the country, ECigaretteDirect (www.ecigarettedirect.co.uk), a British electronic cigarette company, supply the electronic cigarette directly to Qatar via Aramex.

Give us your feedback and tell us how you kicked the habit and what your thoughts are on the smoking laws and regulations here in Qatar.

Tweet us @iloveqatar and @qatarhappening.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

The Health Factor: Medical Insurance in Qatar Tom Evans

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rawling through medical insurance can sometimes be a headache but that shouldn’t act as a deterrent, especially for expatriates living and working in Qatar.

Before even setting foot in the country, all expatriates are required to undergo a vigorous health check, including an HIV test, blood tests and a chest X-ray. For those who pass, there could be more medical obstacles in the way farther down the line. A complicated labour and birth could see bills run as high as QR 427,500, while a transplant could result in as much as QR 855,500 exchanging hands.

Tom Evans, Senior Consultant at Guardian Wealth Management Qatar LLC gives some pointers on how to make sure our health is taken care of here in Doha.

To ensure minimal damage to your coffers, expats with a full residency permit are advised to apply for a health card which entitles them to certain free services. But while this goes some way to covering costs, a referral to a specialist and further treatment comes at a price.

As such, we’ve compiled a list of handy pointers that will help ensure you have the perfect health plan in place and won’t be caught short.

Rest ‘Insured’: Top Tips

First off, it’s important to know exactly which benefits you perceive to be

essential. For example, if you and your partner are not planning on adding to your family, it’s not worth having pre- and post-natal care included. Instead, be sure to look for benefits that you feel could come up in the future – perhaps the inclusion of the costs of a parent accompanying a sick child in need of an operation in another country.

Always take into consideration any health care benefits offered to you by your employer. Go through it with a fine-tooth comb to ensure that it covers all types of emergencies, injuries and illnesses you and your family would like to be covered

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SPECIAL PROMOTION for. If it doesn’t, you will need to enquire about top-up insurance to ensure that all corners are covered.

This brings me to extras. We all think of specialist referrals, hospital coverage and injuries when it comes to insurance but how many stop to think of the smaller extras such as dentistry and ophthalmology. Generally, routine or elective dental treatment is not covered in healthcare plans and without coverage it can prove an expensive trip. If you think you’ll need these sorts of treatments then it is worthwhile checking if you can buy a bolt-on option to cover you.

While some are tempted to leave out pre-existing conditions, it would be fool-hardy to write off all policy rights just when you need the cover as a result of ambiguity at the outset. Some healthcare companies offer cover for pre-existing conditions at an extra cost so always disclose pre-existing conditions.

It’s also worth checking the limits on benefits. Most plans have a limit in place on the amount of benefits covered on an individual treatment basis. When living and working abroad, always check that the individual allowance for each treatment is in line with typical costs for treatments in the country.

On the subject of countries, understand the environment you’re living in. It may be that you’ll require treatment for sunstroke and intensive heat.

It’s essential to pay attention to the small print plus the terms and conditions around your own liabilities when it comes to accidents and injuries.

Flexibility is key – you need to be aware of the places you can obtain treatment. You may find that the hospital recommended to you for treatment is not on the list of recognized providers offered by your plan. A good plan will always offer a wide choice of reputable and medically recognized hospitals and clinics as well as specialists.

And last but not least, you need to be assured that claiming won’t cause problems in itself. The last thing you want when you’re unwell is to find that the authorization and claims process creates extra hurdles. Your chosen health insurance provider should be there to make life as simple as possible for you and not cause any slowdowns.

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COMMUNITY LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

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Expectant & New Mums Coffee

Thursdays: Starbucks, City Center & Grand Heritage Hotel. Join other new Mums and Mums-to-be to talk all things baby! Doha Mums hosts a coffee meet from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. The location varies, so check the Doha Mums website for dates and details. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

ONE OF A KIND Depression Support Group

Wed 3: Various locations. For those of you who are feeling low and do not know what is wrong. This group will by no means be a cure but it will hopefully give you someone to talk to and let you know where to get professional help. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information email dsg@dohamums.com.

Fertility Support Group

Wed 3: Al Soudan (near Billboard Intersection). Are you experiencing a challenging fertility journey and need someone to talk to in a similar position?

From time to time, guest speakers will be invited along to provide information and be available for Q&A in a more intimate environment than the formality of the consulting room. Starts at 7:30 p.m.

For more information visit www.fertilityA@dohamums.com.

Garden Club

Mon 29: The One Coffee Shop, Landmark.

Talk about all things green with regular presenters and garden tours. This month they will visit the Garden Souqs. From 10:30 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For further details please visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

EVERY WEEK Doha Mums Pearl Coffee Break

Wednesdays: The Pearl-Qatar. Calling all Mums on The Pearl to go to Second Cup near Tower 3 from 3:00 p.m. till 4.30 p.m. for a social catch-up. Colouring books and pencils will be provided for the little ones. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

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KIDS CLUB THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

Through the Looking Glass

Halloween Cookie Decorating Classes

Sat 20 & 27: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Children aged four and up will learn all the tricks of making and decorating Halloween themed cookies and then treat themselves with their creations! There will be two sessions 10:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

Light refreshments will be offered. RSVP is essential. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

Wednesday 3, 10 & 17: Museum of Islamic Art. Let’s enter the world of art appreciation! This three-part workshop inspired by MIA’s ‘Islamic Glass’ exhibition is tailored to your pre-schooler. Age group: 3-5 years. 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information email mmoura@qma.org.qa.

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 kid(s) to choose from, suitable for different age groups. RSVP is required. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

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5 Little Fingers

Doha Mums – Annual Halloween Party

of Islamic Art. Learning has never been this fun! Inspired by MIA’s Islamic Glass exhibition, ‘The Intelligence of Tradition, Antiquity & Early Islamic Glass,’ this two-part workshop will focus on developing your toddler’s fine motor skills and verbal communication. Age group: 1-3 years. 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information email mmoura@qma.org.qa.

parents are invited to dress-up in their favourite costume to be in the draw for great prizes and enjoy the myriad of games and activities on offer. Refreshments included in the price. RSVP is essential as numbers are limited. This is a member’s only event so hurry to join Doha Mums! For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

Tues 9 & 16, Tues 23 & 30: Museum

Sat 13: A terrifying venue. Children and

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KIDS CLUB LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

DAILY Live Chocolate Making At Criollo

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City.

Criollo boutique luxury chocolatier, where all chocolates are hand-made on site. Live chocolate-making from 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Open from 6:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m.

For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

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Fun City Toddler Group

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Thursdays: Fun City, City Center Mall. Indoor play fun from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m.

A suitable play area for tots up to the age of five. The toys are fabulous and it’s a great child-friendly environment. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

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ONE OF A KIND Morning 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 from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Intercontinental Hotel Pool Sessions

Mondays: From 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.

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 six years and is both educational and fun. It’s non-competitive 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.

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Swimming Lessons

Wednesdays – Mondays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. Lessons for all ages.

Book 10 sessions and receive two for free.

Children QR 900. Advanced booking is required. For more information call 4496-6410.

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THE LATEST IN HOME INTERIORS

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Unique Creations for Unique Clients “Our results speak for themselves, if you would like to discuss your requirements or schedule a personal appointment please contact us: Tel. +[974] 44 56 87 16”

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FORUM DESIGN P.O. BOX 7848 DOHA, QATAR TEL. +[974] 44 56 87 16 www.ahbqatar.com AN ASSOCIATE OF AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP

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THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS FOOD & DINING

Tangia - New Restaurant Opening

October: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha.

Barbeque by the Pool

Discover traditional Moroccan cuisine artistically prepared and refreshingly authentic. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4434-3687 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Thurs 11 onwards: Sharq Village & Spa. It’s that time of year again! The heat’s off and the coals are sizzling. Take a seat by the pool and enjoy the finest al fresco dining at Al Seef. Steaks and seafood, cooked to perfection, are accompanied by crisp salads and rounded off with sweet treats from the dessert buffet. QR 230 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Matador Mondays - New Mondays:

Mövenpick Hotel Doha. 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.

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October Fest – Big Day Out

Sat 6: Ritz-Carlton Doha. There’s no better retreat in the city than the lush and green Lagoon Garden to celebrate October Fest with your favorite hops and festive ambience! The party invites guests to participate in fun activities or simply enjoy the live band that compliments the German themed Barbeque! 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

For more information call 4484-8512.

Nusantao - New Bento Business Lunch

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Express, trendy, casual and impeccably delicious. Chef Kato adds his Japanese touch by introducing the Bento Box. This includes four delicacies plus soup plus an appetizer for only QR 130. For more information call 4494-8601.

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Seafood Delight

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

We sample the new Seafood Brunch Buffet at La Veranda in the Sheraton Doha, with sumptuous morsels and only the freshest bites – talk about making a splash!

Shrimp Cocktail

T

Guitarist Azi

z Cheurfa

he first thing we notice when we arrive at La Veranda are the incredible views of the Gulf, as this bright and airy open-concept restaurant beckons diners to sit, stay, relax and enjoy.

And with the sea literally right at our doorstep what better place to test drive their new Seafood Buffet Brunch?

led by chef Hussein Hamze, have turned their focus to the sea and all its offerings and delights that are a staple on the plates and tables of coastal Italy. We begin with an array of starters off the cold table, presided over by a massive blue marine ice sculpture.

We fill our plates with smoked salmon, juicy shrimp cocktails, oysters au gratin, a fabulous tuna pasta salad and some lush greens. The dining room is starting to fill up fast and we want to get the best morsels before they’re gone.

“For mains, La Veranda has a great hot station with nearly a dozen choices to make your mouth water”.

Renowned for its fantastic Italian fare, the crack culinary team of chefs at La Veranda,

For mains, La Veranda has a great hot station with nearly a dozen choices to make your mouth water. We start with the seafood chowder and cream of chicken soup – both are hearty and homey and hit the spot perfectly. Following that we try the baked hammour with pesto sauce, salmon parmigiana, lobster in a succulent red sauce, and a hearty helping of thyme-roasted potatoes, crisp carrots and asparagus. The seafood is fresh and the sauces simple yet sumptuous, using only a few key ingredients to let the natural flavours shine through.

La Veranda also has a top-notch pasta bar complete with wood-fired pizza oven

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

L-R: Chefs Hussein Hamz

e, Muhiman Anabar and

and we treat ourselves to some delicious seafood risotto with plump shrimp and calamari, gooey margherita pizza and a custom-made alfredo pasta with turkey and crisp veggies that’s good to the very last slurp. Some digestifs are in order before we can think about heading over to the dessert station with its platters of tiramisu cups, traditional Arabic sweets, steaming ‘umm ali’ and a custard cream that’s to die for.

Mohamed Fadl (image published with parental permission)

Bishnu Khatiwada

The sun is beginning to get that cast of light as the day draws on and we feel content to stay at our table until sunset if we could. With the lush live sounds of a traditional Italian guitarist adding depth to the ambiance and a fun kids corner where parents can let their children roam free with games, balloon-making and face-painting, La Veranda has it down pat.

We’ll be back for the warmth, friendly service and most of all the food. It doesn’t get much fresher than that.

About La Veranda Location: Sheraton Doha Timings: Seafood Brunch,

Saturdays from

12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Price: QR 190 without

beverages, QR 270 with beverages Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Contact Info: 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

THE SPICE of Life

By Laura Prior

All the wow of real Southeast Asian street food with the buzz of a gathering with friends, The Spice Market at the W Doha exceeds mere restaurant status with ease and panache.

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lassy yet unpretentious and dizzyingly good, the W’s Spice Market is a dining experience that’s made effortlessly enjoyable.

From the moment we walk through the doors we’re enticed by the warm, flushed lighting and the cares of our hectic day immediately simmer away.

As we’re ushered to a prime table with a view of the busy lounge area and introduced to all the staff by name, we’re reassured with their impeccable manner and whole-hearted smiles and it’s not long before a flood of food arrives. We feel spoiled and know we’re in for a treat.

Spice Marke

t sushi roll

Served purposely in a family-style that encourages sharing and interaction, it works, as if our mouths were not busy savouring each bite, we were busy talking about the next! With each course, anticipation ruled supreme as we relished a tide of lush aromas, colors and tastes.

After a wholly satisfying evening encompassing entrées, sushi, sides, dessert and delicious drinks we felt as though the world had come to our doorstep - the world of South East Asian flavour cleverly embellished with care. As Chef Darsin Joseph proudly joins us at the table to tell of how he likes to localize their

specials wherever possible, we coo over how easily this place could be adopted as our new, regular haunt.

Highlights, if I must? Without a doubt the Spice Market’s own signature dishes. From their black pepper shrimp and sundried pineapples to the Spice Market sushi roll or locally sourced hammour in Malaysian chili sauce with Thai basil – each bite was full and succulent with original, delicate flavours. Utterly delish!

Tantalizing and satisfying fare served amidst low light with a soundtrack of head-nodding, loungey house sounds and lashings of laughter throughout the night – now that’s the spice of life!

ABOUT SPICE MARKET Location: W Hotel West Bay 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Timings: Daily (New Late Night Sessions) Average QR 110 for mains Meal Price: Reservations: bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Telephone: 4453-5000

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

s t a E H Q We selected one lucky winner from our social media groups to enjoy a dinner for two at Cucina, The Italian Kitchen in the West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center. Emily Reubush has the review!

Lasagne QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

ER: It’s an experience, far more than just a place to fill your stomach. There are things to be learned, journeys to be had. Ask to try their olive oil tasting table while your wait for your order! In a world of chains and corporate restaurants, this provided a surprising glimmer of something actually authentic.

Second fro m left: Emily Reubush Centre: Che f Daniele Chi ari

QH: What did you order?

ER: Calamari, Cappelletti Emiliani, Tortelloni con Ripieno di Zucca (a special Pumpkin Tortellini), Lasagne, Pannacotta alla Vaniglia e Lamponi All’Aceto Balsomico QH: Were the prices reasonable?

ER: Yes. The average menu item price was QR 55 - QR 70 and we paid a total of QR 295 for our food only.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

ER: Pleasant and unpretentious, with an open kitchen, but not loud or distracting. It feels familiar and familial.

QH: Describe the quality of the food.

ER: Very good quality food. A lot of thought and effort obviously goes into the cuisine and it shows. Chef Daniele said they are shortly going towards entirely fresh pasta—nothing dry.

QH: Describe the quality of the service.

ER: Fantastic service. Though we were obviously meant to be impressed, our server, Anees, was obviously very passionate about his career. He does extensive research on ingredients and traditions involved and designs some of the special drinks. This really impressed us—it’s not just a place of work, but it seems that it’s a place where people are encouraged to become truly involved.

QH: Would you go back? Why/why not?

ER: Absolutely; however, not too often. One could though, the food is delicious. But this was a learning experience for us and feels as if it’s something that should be given its due – savoured, even honoured. However, I am very curious to see what their other themes will come up with!

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant?

ER: Nothing. Absolutely no complaints.

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience?

ER: Everything was special. Being privy to the wisdom of our server and the chef were truly interesting. The olive oil tasting—something I have seen but never felt the need to try—was surprisingly enlightening!

QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how?

ER: Not at all. If anything, I am (literally and figuratively) hungry for more!

For reservations call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

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Dine with the stars.

Strata, Doha’s nest new lounge & restaurant, is now open at the new InterContinental Doha The City.

55 oors up, Doha takes on a new perspective. Welcome to Strata – sophisticated company and a stylish setting above the glittering city skyline. It’s Doha’s hottest new destination.

For reservations or for further information, please call +974 4015 8888 email doharestaurants@ihg.com or visit intercontinental.com/dohathecity

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Eat Your

Veggies

By Gerald Tan Photography by Jessie Palanca

Baking with vegetables? We say yum! Let us show you some sneaky yet delicious ways to get your daily serving.

Gerald Tan

Zucchini Bread

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

I

do wonder: is there some switch in our head that flicks sometime between adolescence and adulthood telling us to enjoy vegetables? As a kid, my hatred for greens was so fervent, it bordered on compulsive. Even the giant dollops of mayonnaise failed to make coleslaw enticing. Then, one day, my palate betrayed me. I began craving, of all things, broccoli florets. From there, it went downhill (or uphill, one might argue) -- these days, a meal with beetroot, Brussels sprouts and spinach would not only be welcome, it’d be celebrated.

In spite of my cozy relationship with veggies, I readily admit I am often apprehensive about their appearance in desserts. I can’t explain it, especially considering some of the classics around. Rhubarb pie? Delicious. Carrot cake? ADORE, in caps lock, no less. And don’t get me started on zucchini (or courgette, if you prefer) bread, which might as well be breakfast, tea and pudding all rolled into a loaf of utter magic.

I suppose my trepidation stems from the delirious concoctions cropping up on menus lately: cauliflower cheesecake, black bean brownies, tapioca tart. Some sound wretched. Just because they alliterate, they don’t qualify as dessert – doesn’t matter if you’ve added sugar, butter and cream. It’s still cauliflower pretending to be Red Riding’s Hood granny in a cheesecake nightgown.

The efforts, however, are noted and appreciated. It is, after all, difficult to veer off the path blazed by those great bakers of yore who discovered that mashed up pumpkin steeped with spices would morph into a comforting pie filling, or that puréed sweet potatoes give body to vegan cookies. In some instances the tradition probably bore out of necessity. What to do when the garden patch yields barrels of zucchini? Perhaps grate some up and fold them into the next batch of bread. The result is nothing less than glorious, and that’s the dish I’m espousing this month.

This is one of those recipes that’s so handy and reliable for the home baker. Living in Qatar, zucchinis can be rare and overpriced. Take heart, the recipe works terrifically with carrots. Some go easy on the spices to help the taste of the vegetable shine through. Others punch up the aroma using even more pungent spices such as cloves to make this a heartier cake. The main point here is that the base recipe can be adapted to your liking, even to the point of adding walnuts, raisins or chocolate chunks.

If you feel courageous and truly want to experiment with veggies in your baking, remember to ask yourself whether they will impart too bitter a flavour once cooked.

Also think about texture; celery could be too fibrous, okra too gooey, or tomatoes too seedy. But my philosophy remains. Baking ought to be fun and liberating. So what if the asparagus parfait turns out a little peculiar? If you enjoy it, go right ahead.

“This is one of those recipes that’s so handy and reliable for the home baker”

ZESTY ZUCCHINI BREAD Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis/courgettes (about 2 cups grated) 1 cup brown sugar 1 tub yogurt (roughly 170gm) 1/3 cup vegetable oil 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla

1 ½ cup flour (also works with whole-wheat flour) 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder 1 ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground ginger *Optional 1 cup of mix-ins (walnuts/dried fruit/chocolate)

Implements: 1 bread loaf pan 2 mixing bowls 1 baking tray/casserole dish parchment/baking/wax paper

Line a bread loaf pan with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, toss together flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger together. If desired, add dry mix-in.

In another mixing bowl, beat together sugar, yogurt, oil and vanilla. Add eggs and beat until smooth. Grate the zucchinis (you should have about two cups) and mix it in. Then stir in the dry ingredients.

Pour batter into lined loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celcius for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the middle of the loaf comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool for at least half an hour before slicing.

Any comments, feedback, tips or Uncle Bertie’s wild vegetable dessert recipes gladly welcome. Do share how the zucchini bread turns out.

I’m on Twitter @GeraldoTan.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

Barbeque Platters

Wed 3 – Wed 31: Holiday Villa Doha.

Starting at Lagenda International Restaurant from 12:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m.

For more information call 4408-4888.

Japanese Kushiyaki

Wed 3 – Wed 31: Holiday Villa Doha.

Grilled skewers at D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant from 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Starting from QR 48. For more information call 4408-4888.

Beef Spare Ribs

Wok Mee Business Lunch

Daily: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. The three-course menu just got tastier!

For an Asian twist, it spoils you with choice and features favourites such as the traditional Thai Fish Cakes, Nasi Goreng, Green Mango Salad and Toffee Bananas with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. QR 85 per person. Get a 15% discount with the MTS membership card. Free membership with every reservation. For more information call 4496-6600.

ONE OF A KIND Say Cheese!

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Oryx Rotana. Choose from more than 12 different international cheeses and with expert advice from the sommelier, pair them with a selection of vinos. For more information call 4402-3333.

Tartare Feast

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Four Seasons Doha.

If you have a craving for tuna, salmon or a traditional beef tartare, Library and Cigar Lounge is the place to be. For more information call 4494-8888.

Stylish Persian Cuisine

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Sharq Village & Spa. During October Parisa’s weekend set menu, family-style has plenty of popular options to suit everyone. Chef Moghadam Najjari offers regional specialties and classic dishes, showcasing the best of Persian cooking. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Coffee & Tiramisu Promotion

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Al Kut Café for QR 30 per person. For more information call 4434-3203 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Fruity Frosty

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Sharq Village & Spa. Al Jalsa showcases a menu of refreshing mocktails during the month of October, with a distinctly iced fruit theme. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Afternoon Heaven

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Sharq Village & Spa. Every day except Sundays in October an a la carte menu on Al Dana terrace offers tasty snacks and tapas at the bar counter. Dip into elegant morsels and sip an aperitif as the sun dips below the horizon. Their Latin Trio sets the scene.

From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Wed 3 – Wed 31: Holiday Villa Doha.

At 11th Floor Contemporary Restaurant from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. (Closed on Saturdays). For more information call 4408-4888.

Malaysian Hi-Tea

Sat 6 – Sat 27: Holiday Villa Doha.

Buy three get one free! At Lagenda International Restaurant from 12:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. QR 100 per adult. For more information call 4408-4888.

Made In Tuscany

Sun 7 – Sat 13: Ritz-Carlton Doha. An ensemble of molecular cuisine creations

by Chef Ricardo Acquista and his team of ‘Il Giardino Armonico’ chefs at Porcini, who will orchestrate an evening to delight the palate. For more information call 4484-8000.

Pumpkin Carrot Festival

Sun 14: W Doha. All you can eat with one beverage. QR 100 per adult and QR 70 per child. For more information call 4453-5135.

Velvet Cupcake Promotion

Sat 20 – Fri 26: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Al Kut Café QR 14 per piece. For more information, call 4434-3203 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Epicurean Evenings In Gordon Ramsay Doha

Sun 21: The St. Regis Doha. Marina Cvetic from Azienda Agricola Masciarelli hosts an intimate Sommeliers dinner presenting their Trebbianos and Montepulcianos paired with Michelin-starred cuisine from Chef Gilles Bosquet. QR 750 including a 5-course menu paired with premium beverages. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations.doha@stregis.com.

Chef’s Table

Mon 22: Ritz-Carlton Doha. All food aficionados are invited into the show kitchen at Porcini to witness the return of Chef Ricardo Acquista as he demonstrates the preparation of their four-course molecular cuisine themed dinner. The dining experience includes commentary on each dish, explaining molecular cuisine, food pairing concepts and themes and addressing queries from guests throughout the event.

At the end of the evening, each guest will receive a recipe book as a gift to remember.

From 7:00 p.m. QR 450 per person. For more information call 4484- 8000 or email umberto.panella@ritzcarlton.com.

Eid Family Celebrations

Thurs 25 – Sat 27: Sharq Village & Spa. Executive Chef Hassan Abdullah and his team create an extravagant Eid brunch at Al Liwan, with a selection of oriental delicacies including over 35 mezze, freshly baked breads, crisp salads, a sushi station, grilled seafood and meat and mouth-watering selections of hot dishes including whole ouzi lamb. A buffet of puddings, tarts, chocolates and Arabic sweets are sure to delight. A real family affair with entertainment for the little ones too. QR 320 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Eid Fun For Children

Thurs 25 – Sat 27: Sharq Village & Spa. Children can enjoy their own Eid fun with supervised games, competitions, bouncy castle and face painting, together with a children‘s buffet of favourite dishes.

QR 160 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Eid Brunch With Café Ceramique

Fri 26: Grand Heritage Doha. At Flavours restaurant, live cooking stations, a range of exciting activities for the kids including face painting, PlayStation games, balloon art and Ceramique painting. From 12:30 p.m till 3:00 p.m. QR 180 per person. Children under 5 years enjoy complimentary meals and half the price for 6-12 years. Additional charges apply for Ceramique. For more information call 4445-5555.

Eid Al Adha At Porcini

Fri 26 - Mon 29: Ritz-Carlton Doha.

Serving a special set menu for Eid Al Adha celebrations. QR 350 per person. For more information call 4484-8000 or email umberto.panella@ritzcarlton.com.

Eid Brunch

1st Day of Eid: Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

Seasons restaurant has set the stage for a grand celebration with plenty of fun activities to keep the little ones happy.

QR 265 per person including free-flowing select beverages. Children 12 years and under eat free and 12 years to 16 year get 50% off.

For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Master Class

Mon 29: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Award-winning chef Ricardo Acquista will take you through the planning and preparation of a great menu at Porcini. From 10:30 a.m. followed by lunch. QR 265 per person. For more information call 4484-8000 or contact our Restaurants Reservations Coordinator at 4484-8150 or email umberto.panella@ritzcarlton.com.

Spooky Dinner

Wed 31: Sharq Village & Spa. Calling all witches and ghosts to a scary dining experience at Al Dana. They are expecting all manner of terrible creatures for the annual Halloween feast and their devilish chefs have conjured up a three- course menu of fearful delights. Please leave your broomsticks, spells and black cats at the door. QR 280 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Halloween Dinner Buffet

Wed 31: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Unwind with children, friends and family at the specially created Sweets or Treats Room and indulge in a luxurious buffet and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. QR 240 per person.

Pumpkin Carving Classes for the families upon request on October 25, 26, and 27.

For more information call 4484-8000.

Spanish Football Tapas

Mon 1 – Wed 31: Radisson Blu Doha.

La Liga kicks off this month with what promises to be another classic season of Spanish football. Go and watch the main games at Picasso’s and enjoy a late evening Tapas platter for two for only QR 50 on games nights along with 20% discount on Spanish vinos. For more information call 4428-1555.

EVERY WEEK A Trip Around The Regions Of Italy

Saturdays - Thursdays: Four Seasons Doha. Chef Matteo at Il Teatro offers diners an eclectic presentation of refined regional Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Lunch starts from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information call 4494-8888.

180@Hive

Saturdays – Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha The City. Enjoy a choice of theme nights with tasty bar bites from around the world accompanied by three glasses for QR 180 per person.

Saturday – Greek, Sunday – Italian, Monday – Spanish, Tuesday – Asian, Wednesday – cheese and vino. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Arrive In Style!

Sundays - Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Book your table at Blue, 24 hours in advance and receive a complimentary home pick up and drop off by the hotel’s exclusive Limo. Open from 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Price QR 250 per person inclusive of one choice of appetizer, main course, dessert and beverage. For more information call 4445-5555.

Mediterranean Night

Sundays: The Torch Doha. Choose from a selection of plates from different countries at Flying Carpet Restaurant.

From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Tex Mex BBQ

Sundays: Oryx Rotana. Go with your friends and enjoy a special beverage deal with the Tex Mex BBQ night! From 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.

Grill Night

Sundays: W Doha. Steak connoisseurs and red-meat lovers converge upon Market

by Jean-Georges to savour their prize cuts of tender meat, fowl and seafood.

Char-grilled or seared, rare or well done: have it your way with your choice of sauce and side dish. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4453-5135.

Maki Mania

Sundays - Thursdays: Grand Heritage Doha. A special menu at Blue with an extensive variety of Maki rolls and traditional Miso soup is included as a starter at this elegant dining destination.

QR 165 per person inclusive of unlimited Maki and Miso soup. Open from 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Tomahawk At New York Steakhouse

Sundays - Fridays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

Sumptuous steak, supreme service 1000 grams of Australian Wagyu beef, exclusive at the New York Steakhouse.

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

Seafood Night

Mondays: Millennium Hotel. Stir, sizzle and sauté at Cosmo, seafood flavours not to be missed! QR 180 per person.

From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Asian BBQ Dinner Buffet Mondays: Doha Marriott Hotel. Enjoy the new poolside seating of our Asian restaurant. Dine under the stars while savouring the flavours of an Asian BBQ dinner with the fun of ‘self-cooking’ at your table. Try your luck with fortune cookies and find the highest discount on cocktails. QR 185 per person. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information email DineMarriottDoha@marriotthotels.com or call 4429-8499.

Barbecue Bazaar Night

Mondays: The Torch Doha . Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers, hot dogs for only QR 190 per person from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant is located at Mezzanine 2 level. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Sushi Night At Strata

Mondays: InterContinental Doha The City.

Open sushi and sashimi, accompanied by a Japanese traditional beverage and stunning views of West Bay from the 55th and 56th floors. QR 250 including one drink and QR 225 for food only. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Meat The Grills

Mondays: InterContinental Hotel Doha.

Eat as much mixed grill as you can. Enjoy a live cooking station with a buffet of fresh cold mezzedes and salads complemented with desserts. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

QR 165 per person. For more information call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444.

Asian Night

Mondays: Oryx Rotana. Take a culinary journey around Asia at Choices restaurant.

Expert Thai, Indonesian and Philippine chefs prepare an exquisite buffet of authentic Far Eastern cuisine for QR 199 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 279 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Sushi Mania

Salsa Night

Mondays and Wednesdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Finger-sized pieces of fish and shellfish are wrapped around soft sushi rice with a hint of wasabi mustard.

Take your pick from our selection twice a week. If you miss the date, there’s always the daily sushi counter in Al Dana.

QR 135. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Tuesdays: Doha Marriott Hotel. A perfect fiesta full of rich flavours, spices and authentic live music by the Mariachi Juan Trio. Dice your discount with every order on cocktails up to 50%. QR 40 for appetizer buffet from 6:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. and a la carte from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

International Buffet

Tuesdays: The Torch Doha. Enjoy Shawarma, kababs, pide and much more Turkish cuisine for only QR 190 per person, from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha.

The scrumptious buffet at Grand Gourmet offers different cuisines from around the world, such as 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 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Ipanema New Dessert Selection

Mondays – Saturdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

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 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Early Evenings In Gordon Ramsay Doha

Mondays – Saturdays: The St. Regis Doha. Headed by Michelin-starred Chef Gilles Bosquet, Gordon Ramsay Doha offers a true fine-dining experience, highlighting both Gordon Ramsay’s classics and Chef Gilles’ own creations.

From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Enjoy a three-course discovery menu for QR 375 or QR 575 with a selection of paired beverages from 6:00 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. only. For more information call 4446-0105.

Turkish Delights

Les Aples Tuesdays

Tuesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

Combining the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland to fashion an exclusive gourmet event. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.möevenpick-doha.com.

Picasso’s Raclette Night

Tuesdays: Radisson Blu Hotel. Enjoy the flavours of Raclette Cheese as it slowly melts over warm potatoes, cold cuts and pickles. Book your table now to enjoy the Raclette Buffet for just QR 50 per person!

For more information call 4428-1555.

Ouzeri Nights By Mykonos

Tuesdays: InterContinental Hotel Doha.

Enjoy Greek delicacies while sharing ouzo on ice with friends. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 175 per person. For more information call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444.

Steak Night

Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. Choose your meat cuts and size and enjoy all the meat you can! QR 219 per person with soft drinks and juices and QR 299 per person with selected house beverages.

For more information call 4402-3333.

Taj Rasoi Regional Dinner Buffet

Wednesdays: Doha Marriott Hotel.

Lavish buffet dinner of a different Indian region every week. Pull a raffle ticket for 10-30% discount on your next ‘Regional Dinner Buffet’ visit. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 175 per person. For only QR 75 extra choose either one lobster tail or two king crab legs as additional treats.

For more information call 4429-8499.

Pan-Latino Night

Wednesdays: The Torch Doha.

Experience Latino living with a variety of Mexican, Argentinian and Brazilian platters for only QR 190 per person, from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Asian Night

Wednesdays: Millennium Hotel. Travel to the Asian world and savour true flavours from India, China, Vietnam and Japan in an exotic setting. QR 150 per person. From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

All You Can Eat At Latino

Wednesdays and Saturdays: Sheraton Doha. Salad/starters and dessert buffet, all you can eat parillada served at the table accompanied by live entertainment.

QR 190 food only, QR 250 with freeflowing beverages and vino. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

TempAsian Wednesdays

Wednesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

Be tempted by authentic ingredients and aromas. Gather around the teppanyaki table, taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.

For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.möevenpick-doha.com.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Churrasco On The Beach

Wednesdays: Four Seasons Doha.

Gather family and friends for an unforgettable festive experience, as you select your choice of delicious barbeque with a wide buffet selection of soup, salads and side orders. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

DAILY Prime Restaurant – Now Open

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City.

Fine dining restaurant dedicated to the best selection of cuts and grill in the city. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Norway Trout Fish

Daily: The Torch Doha. Served at Three Sixty, Doha’s only revolving restaurant.

Open from 12:00 p.m. till 3.00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. till 10.30 p.m. Located on the 47th floor. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

New Menu at Porcini

Daily: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Visit this fine dining Italian venue in the ever-evolving city of Doha and surprise your taste buds with revolutionary cuisine and full signature menu by Chef Ricardo Acquista, 2012 winner of the Doha Food Festival Black Box competition.

Re-discover all the Mediterranean classics with a twist of molecular cuisine in the live show-kitchen environment, allowing you to interact with the Master.

From 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8360 or visit rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

New Menu At Irish Harp

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Fish and Chips, Steak and Guinness Pie, Bangers and Mash as well as other typical pub dishes are now being served at Doha’s best Irish bar. With live entertainment from 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4444.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

A Taste of Provence At La Sahtaine

Daily: Hilton Doha. Indulge in a 5-course traditional menu from Provence for QR 250 per person. Listen to the vibrant pianist, enjoy the stylish atmosphere and a cellar with international vino overlooking the Arabian Gulf. From 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m.

For more information call 4423-3333.

Vine Restaurant

Daily: The St. Regis Doha. Filled with natural daylight, Vine is the hotels all-day dining venue. Marble walls, wooden tables, bespoke chinaware and natural golden colors offer a welcoming contemporary space. Inspired by the blend of fine cuisines found in California, the menu is destined to delight the palate of well-travelled guests with a selection of all-time favourites with a Middle Eastern twist. For more information call 4446-0105.

Live Band At Mykonos

Daily: InterContinental Doha. The winner of ‘Best Family Restaurant’ in Doha and the only truly Greek-Mediterranean restaurant in the city, it offers an array of fresh, tempting and authentic flavours. Dimas Duo, the famous Bouzouki Duo is back! Open 12:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Nusantao presents authentic pan-Asian dishes prepared by a multicultural culinary team hailing from Indonesia, Thailand, India, China and Japan with Japanese Chef de Cuisine Toshikazu Kato leading the team.

Whatever the menu, dining is pure theatre with delicacies prepared in full view of guests. There’s a sushi bar, tandoor ovens, satay grills, tawa griddles, dumpling steamers and a gorgeous terrace. For more information call 4494-8601.

Traiteur Daily Specials

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a healthy lunch with La Cigale daily specials available for outside orders. The lunch box contains a fresh salad, delectable main dish, home-made dessert and one soft drink. Choose your main dish from different selections such as poultry, meat or seafood. Daily special price starts from QR 65. Open 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8803/20.

Il Teatro Italian Fine Dining Restaurant

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Offers guests a gastronomic journey with sublime authentic Italian cuisine created by Chef Matteo Arvonio and his brigade of Italian chefs. Mushroom All The Way - choose from a variety of special dishes with Porcini and Chantarelle mushrooms, enjoy it while it lasts! For special occasions, guests can enjoy their privacy at Il Teatro’s elegant exclusive dining room. Dinner starts from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

New A La Carte Dinner Menu In Aroma

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha. Indulge in the new delectable dinner à la carte menu in the awardwinning Aroma. Enjoy exceptional quality from the creative team of Executive Chef Jonathan Spiteri in the stylish ambience of Aroma. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email aroma. doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha.

Spice Market Tasting Menu

Daily: W Doha. Five courses with ten mouth-watering flavours and a bottle of vino from the set menu for QR 500 per person for a minimum of two people.

From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Make-Your-Own Sandwich Online @ www.westenddoha.com

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. The easiest way to order your lunch these days is with the click of a button!

Choose from homemade bread and fresh spreads, with the healthiest choice of toppings. Visit www.westenddoha.com.

Gourmet House Ice-Creams

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha.

Try the homemade selection of ice-creams and sorbets. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com.

Al Hubara Restaurant

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Theme Nights – Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays; International Buffet, Wednesdays and Thursdays QR 190; Seafood Extravaganza QR 250. Fridays; South East Asian Buffet, Saturdays; Arabian Nights QR 190 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

50% Discount At Gourmet House

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Buy the famous bakery products at half price, every day between 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m...if there’s any left! Also for every eight loaves, receive one for free with the new bonus card. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m.

For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com.

Dinner Under The Stars

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. The ultimate candle-lit dinner at Pool Grill, nestled beside a roaring bonfire at the most exclusive beach in Doha. The master chef will prepare live the most appetizing fresh sushi and sashimi to perfection. Following this, the chef promises a Japanese-inspired menu for diners to indulge in for the rest of the evening. For more information call 4494-8888.

Homemade Bread Of The Day

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. The Master Baker at Quick Bites ensures fresh and new breads at all times.

Try his fresh creations including rye bread, cheese, sundried tomato and walnut among many others. From 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Refreshed Tasting & Sharing At The Lounge

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Find the essence of social life and share with your friends delicious bites from the Tasting & Sharing menu including the mini-burgers. Between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. get a 50% discount during Mix & Fuse. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

The Dining Room, Al Najada Boutique Hotel

Yen Sushi Bar

Quick Bites Picnic Box

Le Grill

Daily: Souq Waqif. The Dining Room is a fine dining à la carte restaurant with a 7-course degustation menu. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4433-6444.

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Looking for a healthy take-away lunch? Your ultimate solution is the Quick Bites Picnic Box. It consists of a healthy salad, a choice of sandwich, dessert, chips and a soft drink for QR 60, available from 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

The Courtyard, Al Najada Boutique Hotel

Daily: Souq Waqif. An informal hip and funky café, serving a relaxed breakfast and light meals alfresco, as well as offering a fresh alternative all-day dining menu from a unique and innovative à la carte selection of fusion cuisine. Surrounded by palm trees, water features and contemporary Qatari art, an ideal dining venue for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

From 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4433-6444.

Special Italian Cuisine

Daily: La Cigale. Celebrate Italian flair at Di Capri with the exuberant A La Carte menu and a wide selection of wines.

The menu features a variety of signature dishes including fresh traditional pastas, classic and mixed risottos and opulent fish and meat platters. Don’t forget the ‘Dolce E Gelato’ desserts section. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.

For more information call 4428-8698.

The Canteen, Arumaila Boutique Hotel

Daily: Souq Waqif. Offers comfort food at its best! Guests can relax and enjoy a wide range of dishes including pasta, noodles, fish and chips and traditional Arabic dishes in the distinctively energetic surroundings of Souq Waqif. 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4433-6777.

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy Doha’s best sushi and sashimi at this intimate sushi bar, served on a special rotating belt amidst alluring mood lighting, rice paper walls and fashionable furniture by acclaimed designer Philip Stark. 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

Daily: The Diplomatic Club. Le Grill is an elegant and comfortable restaurant, serving the best prime steaks and grilled seafood in town. You can see the chefs prepare your food in the open kitchen on the live cooking station. To accompany your meal, we propose a comprehensive wine list featuring both classic and new world vintages. For more information call 4484-7412 or email f&b@dclub.com.qa.

Opal By Gordon Ramsay

Daily: The St. Regis Doha. A casual alternative to Chef Ramsay’s Michelinstarred fine cuisine, Opal offers Western classics executed to perfection in a relaxed atmosphere for lunch and dinner.

For more information call 4446-0105.

Cucina Opens Seafood Market

Daily: West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Choose your favourite fish of the day to be seared, grilled, baked, or even mixed into your own personalized pasta or risotto. 12:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com.

The Terrace Lounge, Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel

Daily: Souq Waqif. Comprised of indoor and outdoor lounges, including a terrace area, serving light bites such as tempting sandwiches, pastries and Arabic sweets. 9:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information call 4433-6555.

Le Central

Daily: La Cigale. Don’t miss the tantalizing Mediterranean specialties and the wide selection of seafood items complemented by the extended beverage selection. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

East, Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel

Daily: Souq Waqif. Offers an international fusion of Mediterranean, Arabic and Japanese cuisine with a Persian twist. This all-day dining restaurant provides the perfect venue for a business lunch or relaxing dinner.

The à la carte menu is perfectly created to satisfy every taste. Breakfast 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m., lunch 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m., dinner 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4433-6555.

Al Shaheen Lebanese Restaurant

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy a traditional Lebanese menu, along with the best views of the city from the rooftop, accompanied by Lebanese entertainment. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

Al Sayyad

Daily: The Diplomatic Club. At the signature restaurant you can enjoy the finest traditional Middle Eastern seafood and stunning views over the Doha skyline and The Pearl-Qatar.

The perfect place to truly experience the wonderful cuisine and atmosphere of the Middle East. For more information call 4484-7412 or email f&b@dclub.com.qa.

Coral All Day Dining (formerly known As The Café restaurant)

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Open for breakfast from 5:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m., lunch 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. and dinner 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Theme Nights every night. For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

WEEKEND THURSDAY Reggae Barbeque Nights In Oyster Bay

Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays: The St. Regis Doha. Get into the rhythm of the Caribbean with live Reggae music while enjoying barbeque items around the pool.

7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. QR 150 per person.

For more information call 4446-0105.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: The Torch Doha. Find the catch of the day and a selection of seafood for cooking, QR 220 per person from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Fish Market Night

Thursdays: Grand Heritage Doha. A whole new market-style concept arrives at Flavors. A selection of popular and traditional seafood dishes makes this an ideal night out for seafood lovers. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 199 per person.

Children under 5 years enjoy complimentary meals and half the price for 6-12 years. For more information call 4445-5555.

Seafood Extravaganza At Mawasem

Fridays: Hilton Doha. Book a table and start your weekend with an extravagant selection of fresh seafood favourites from 7:00 p.m. QR 225 per person including unlimited soft drinks. For more information call 4423-3112.

Deep Blue Thursdays

Thursdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. 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 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Cosmopolitan Thursdays At The Square

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha The City. The Square’s lively format and diverse menu choices are perfect for an evening with friends. QR 290 per person, including house vinos, house spirits.

QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Seafood Night At Crossroads Kitchen

Thursdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

Enjoy the biggest seafood paella in Doha, alongside tiger prawns, mussels, tuna, oysters and the freshest sushi in town! The newest addition is the Mongolian stir-fry station where you can choose chicken, beef, lamb or seafood. From QR 225 including soft beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com.

FRIDAY Corniche Seafood Night

Fridays: Doha Marriott Hotel. Tempt your appetite with our delectable seafood buffet at the Corniche Mediterranean restaurant.

From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 175 per person. For only QR 75 extra choose either one lobster tail or two king crab legs as additional treats. For more information call 4429-8499.

A La Carte Friday Lunch In Aroma

Curry, Kare, Kari Fridays

Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. 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 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Seafood BBQ Night

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Enjoy a Seafood BBQ dinner by the beachfront at the Fish Market. Enjoy grilled fish and seafood freshly prepared by our expert Chefs including live cooking stations.

From 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

SATURDAY Saturday Roast

Saturdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy the perfect hand-carved selection of roast meats, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings cooked to perfection at Admiral’s Club from 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m.

QR 260 per platter – serves two guests for QR 50 extra you can also eat lobster! For more information call 4484-8663.

Fridays: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha. For all those that are tired of buffets! A team of chefs bring the buffet to your table. Culinary delights from the four-course menu are there for you to taste and share with your family and friends.

From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com.

Saturdays: The Torch Doha. Savour sushi, cold seafood station, Wok station, Indian corner, Thai corner for only QR 190 per person, from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Arabian Night

Burger Night

Asian Treasures

Fridays: The Torch Doha. Live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines, QR 190 per person from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Saturdays: W Doha. Market is grilling up a good time. The tastiest burgers made just the way you like them. Choose your burger, side dish and a dessert for QR 110.

From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Indian Flavours

Fridays: Doha Marriott Hotel. Take a break and indulge in the lavish Oriental buffet and live cooking stations at the Corniche Mediterranean restaurant. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 175 per person. For more information call 4429-8499.

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. Savour an aromatic feast and indulge your senses with authentic Indian flavours for QR 160 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 240 person, including unlimited selected house beverages.

From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Corniche Arabic Night

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Retail Tapas Galore

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Indulge in endless tapas at The Cellar for QR 150 per person, and pay reduced retail prices for selected wines: an offer that’s more than easy to swallow. For more information call 4402-3333.

Sushi Fiesta

Saturdays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha.

Immerse yourself in an electrical range of original and sensational sushi platters from the sushi bar at Chopsticks, the awardwinning best restaurant. Eat as much you can for QR 129 per person, including a glass of sparkling date juice. Saturdays from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Lebanese Breakfast

Saturdays: Millennium Hotel. Enjoy authentic Lebanese flavours, decorations, tunes and live stations serving healthy food to kick off the day. QR 120 per person.

From 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

Sushi and Steak @ Blue

Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha.

Indulge in the chefs’ wide selection of freshly-made unlimited Sushi and a prime quality steak grilled to your specification served with rustic chips and a sauce of your choice. QR 195 per person, for an additional QR 50, select the premium quality of Australian Wagyu beef. From 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Sushi Night

Saturdays: W Doha. 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. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Ready, Set, Chopsticks!

Friday Brunch

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Three words sum up the food at the Sushi & Sashimi Night at Choices - fresh, simple, delicious. The talented team of chefs serve up the perfect Japanese dining experience, with food that’s a feast for the eye as well as the mouth. QR 195 per person (food only). For more information call 4402-3333.

Fridays: Sheraton Doha. 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 at Al Hubara, Lobby Level. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 190 per person.

For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Crustacean Night At Strata

Street Food Brunch

Saturdays: InterContinental Doha The City. Set menus include a selection of lobster, prawns, Bahrain sea crab and langoustines – a must for all shellfish fans.

Plus enjoy stunning views of West Bay from the 55th and 56th floors. QR 300 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Crossroads International Lunch Buffet

Saturdays - Thursdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

Crossroads Kitchen is offering a fresh international buffet for only QR 155 per person from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Ladies Night At Latino

Saturdays: Sheraton Doha. Free drinks for ladies when you order a minimum of two courses from the A La Carte Menu.

From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

BRUNCH Vine Brunch

Fridays: The St. Regis Doha. Enjoy a taste of St. Regis showcased with an extensive buffet and live cooking stations. QR 250 including soft drinks and QR 350 including a selection of beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

For more information call 4446-0105.

Fridays: W Doha. Asian street food meets slick city chic, to a backdrop of live upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz on Fri 5, 12, 19 and 26. Price QR 340 including specialty drinks, QR 285 including soft drinks.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.

Dim Sum Brunch

Fridays: Holiday Villa Doha. Enjoy a delicious buffet with free-flowing Chinese tea at D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant from 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m.

QR 130 per adult, QR 65 per child (aged 4-12 years). For more information call 4408-4888.

Crossroads Kitchen Family Brunch

Fridays: The West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Offering a fantastic international brunch including a children’s buffet and entertainment zone with face painting, movies and games. From QR 215. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Ipanema Friday Brunch

Fridays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Boasting the only authentic Brazilian band in Doha, Ipanema is the place to come for seafood and sizzling meats on skewers, with live entertainment.

From QR 250 per person including soft beverages and QR 320 including house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.

For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Family Friday Brunch

RECOMMENDS

Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. 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 custom-made kids buffet.

QR 215 per person, kids under twelve dine free, from twelve to sixteen, half price. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Seafood Brunch At Fish Market

Weekend Brunch in Opal by Gordon Ramsay

Fridays and Saturdays: The St. Regis Doha. The first a la carte Brunch in Doha!

Enjoy the true British brunch experience with a selection of breakfast items, Opal’s favourites and other specialties from Gordon Ramsay’s famed recipes. 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.

X’Press Friday

Friday Family Brunch

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Indulge in the luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobster, oyster, tiger prawns, and sea bass. Choose from the wide range of beverage options to complement your meal whilst enjoying the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 320 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.

For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. The weekend starts here; you’re invited to sit back, relax and enjoy the exquisite three-course set menu, including a wide choice of appetizers, main courses and desserts. Choose either the set menu with two glasses of selected vino for QR 149, or food only for QR 89.

There are also tempting tasting offers on a wide range of vinos, using the state-of-the-art Enomatic vino serving system. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch.

Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations. Children also have their own junior buffet and entertainment. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 240 per person, QR 315 with bubbly, QR 395 with bubbly, vinos and selected beverages. Complimentary for children under four years old. For more information call 4484-8000.

Le Cigalon Brunch

Cosmo Brunch

Jazzy Friday Brunch

Fridays: InterContinental Doha The City.

With a host of interactive cooking and beverage stations and an emphasis on fresh, compelling menu options with Asian, Arabic, and European influences. QR 320 per person, including selected house beverages.

QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Fridays: Millennium Hotel. International and Oriental cuisines are served in a casual ambiance, with a special kids corner and entertainment. QR 155 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

Hyde Park Brunch

Fridays: Radisson Blu Hotel Doha. Start the weekend right and enjoy a very special Friday brunch. Let the team of chefs tempt you with fresh seafood, sushi, Chinese, Indian and European specialties. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 190 with sparkling vino or QR 140 with soft drinks. For more information call 4428-1555.

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. 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. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Fridays: La Cigale. This spring Le Cigalon offers an extended international buffet lunch overlooking an open kitchen area.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Price per person QR 200, including American coffee or tea; a la carte option is also available.

Also enjoy this buffet at the intimate Di Capri. For more information call 4428-8698.

Brunch At The Square

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Saturday Arabic Brunch

Saturdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Experience this new Arabic Brunch at The Lagoon from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Brunch At Flying Carpet

Fridays: The Torch Doha. Brings a Seafood Extravaganza: find the catch of the day and a selection of seafood for cooking, QR 220 per person including selected beverages.

Served from 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.

Special rate for children between 6 and 12. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Brunch At Mawasem

Fridays: Hilton Doha. 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 person including French bubbly.

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

Mediterranean Brunch

Fridays: Sheraton Doha. Experience the International buffet at Al Shaheen with the best views of the city from the rooftop level. There is a kids area with balloons and face painting. QR 220 food only, QR 270 with free flow beverages and sparkling vino. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Market Brunch

Fridays: W Doha. Watch fresh, local products and ingredients come together splendidly in the Mediterranean-inspired show kitchen, where global gastronomy has found its home. Brunch serving international and Mediterranean cuisine. Price QR 340 including specialty drinks, QR 285 including soft drinks. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Family-Friendly Weekend Brunch

Weekend Family Brunch

Fridays and Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Unwind with friends and family at Al Liwan Restaurant and indulge in a luxurious buffet, with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

A superb spread awaits while there are plenty of supervised activities to keep the little ones amused, including their own buffet of child-friendly favourites. QR 250 per person and QR 125 per child aged 6 to 12 years.

From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

Fridays and Saturdays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. Enjoy the sumptuous array of international cuisine including fresh seafood, carved meats and Arabic delights. A special children’s area offers their favourite food, along with Playstation, movies and games. Brunch is from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Complimentary access to the pool for children and moms from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 199 per person, inclusive of all beverages. Children from 6 to 12 years of age are half-price and those under six are free. For more information call 4496-6600.

Brunch with Café Ceramique

Saturday Brunch

Fridays: Grand Heritage Doha. At Flavours restaurant, live cooking stations, a range of exciting activities for the kids including face painting, PlayStation games, balloon art and Ceramique painting. From 12:30 p.m till 3:00 p.m. QR 180 per person. Children under 5 years enjoy complimentary meals and half the price for 6-12 years. Additional charges apply for Ceramique. For more information call 4445-5555.

Crazy 88 Weekends At Wok Mee

Fridays and Saturdays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. In Oriental culture, ‘88’ is the symbol of happiness or good fortune. For only QR 88 enjoy up to four baskets of tasty morsels of soft-steamed Chinese dumplings filled with delicious seafood, meat and vegetables. From Hargow to Shaomai and steamed chicken buns dripping in soy sauce for the whole family from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4496-6600.

Coral Brunch

Fridays and Saturdays: InterContinental Doha. This international buffet restaurant with spectacular views of the pool and sea offers cuisine from around the world with live cooking stations. From 12:30 p.m till 4:00 p.m. Friday brunch QR 325 per person including unlimited house beverages or QR 275 with soft drinks. Saturday brunch QR 240 per person. For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

Saturdays: The Torch Doha. An array of specialties from the Mediterranean, Asia and Latin America at Flying Carpet restaurant for QR 195 per person including selected beverages. Special rate for children between 6 and 12 only QR 95, from 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Oriental Seafood Lunch

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Treat yourself to an informal brunch at Choices where you can savour the new Oriental family buffet!

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 219 per person (price includes food only). For more information call 4402-3333.

Seafood Brunch

Saturdays: Sheraton Doha. Indulge in the large array of seafood displayed at La Veranda. There is also a kids area with balloons and face painting. QR 220 food only, QR 290 with free-flowing beverages and sparkling vino. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

AFTERNOON TEA Sarab Lounge

Daily: The St. Regis Doha. The heart and soul of the hotel, Sarab Lounge offers a selection of afternoon teas. Choose among a selection of 100 different teas to pair with your preferred afternoon tea set.

Starts at QR 190 per person. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

Afternoon Tea At The Lobby Lounge

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City.

Relax in the bright surroundings and enjoy a choice of afternoon tea menus. Classic Afternoon Tea QR 80, Oriental Tea QR 85, Contemporary Afternoon Tea QR 95 per person, including selected house beverages. From 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Tea Garden

Business Lunch at La Sahtaine

Sundays – Thursdays: Hilton Doha. Step out of your office and enjoy a threecourse meal overlooking the waterfront for QR 88 per person. From 12:00 p.m till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333. Not valid with any other promotion or special deal.

Sunset High Tea

Daily: The Torch Doha. Take a break and enjoy finger sandwiches and home-made mini-pastries with your choice of tea or coffee in Doha’s trendiest lounge, Kufic, for QR 75 per person. From 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Or visit Three Sixty Restaurant and enjoy Sunset High Tea from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. for QR 135. Enjoy a variety of strawberry creations from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com.

High Tea @ Victoria Lounge

Sundays - Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of this traditional Victorian Tea Lounge. Either traditional afternoon high tea or Moroccan 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.

European Menu At Seasons

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Enjoy the delicious citrus desserts at Seasons Tea Lounge. Prepared by a team of experts for you to indulge and enjoy. Available during September and October. Also introducing a new Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner menu from all across Europe. Open from 8:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Big English Afternoon Tea

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Atrium Café is the choice for a Big English afternoon tea starting from QR 35! A bright selection of sweet and salty specials to choose from served with Coffee or Tea. Also serving a selection of delicious ice-creams. For more information call 4485-4556.

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Afternoon High Tea from 3:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m.

Selection of finger sandwiches, pastries and free-flowing tea or coffee at QR 85 per person. 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 or email teagarden@icdoha.com.

Afternoon Tea With A View

Daily: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Tea takes a vacation from The Lobby Lounge and invites you and your friends to partake in the city skyline view of La Mer restaurant to taste the culinary treats and delights of Executive Pastry Chef Jerome Bertoumieux from 2:00 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 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

BUSINESS LUNCH Casual Lunch

Daily: The Torch Doha. Includes appetizer, sandwich or pasta and hot beverage with our signature pralines for only QR 75 from 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Flying Carpet restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Express Lunch At Blue

Sunday to Thursday: Grand Heritage Doha. Three-course set menu for only QR 95. Guaranteed to be served in 30 minutes. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information call 4445-5555.

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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

RECOMMENDS

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Express Lunch At Market

Italian Business Lunch.

Saturday – Thursday: Sheraton Doha. Treat yourself and your business partners at La Veranda with Italian homemade delights. Offer consists of a three-course lunch served within 45 minutes for QR 99. From 12:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

Chopsticks Business Lunch

Cucina Express Lunch

Tuesdays – Sundays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Offers the ideal solution for busy professionals - an exceptional Asian three-course 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.

Sundays - Thursdays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. If you like variety, then you will love Cucina’s express lunch, where you can choose from six entrees, six mains and five desserts. QR 85 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Business Lunch Formula

Good Mood Business Lunch

Daily: La Cigale. Le Central welcomes you and your corporate associates for a closed business deal with its specialty Business Set Menu. It will take only a few minutes from your office wherever you are in Doha to savour three choices of light and healthy appetizers, expertly designed main dishes and La Cigale’s irresistible desserts for only QR 150. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

Kau Kau Lunch At Trader Vic’s

Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha. Choose your starter, main course and dessert and savour chef Vongerichten’s signature dishes in only 30 minutes! The finest dining express lunch ever! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89 per person for a three-course menu. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.

Business Lunch In West Bay

Saturdays - Thursdays: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha. Select from the gourmet ‘Rushed for Time’ menu your choice of starters, main courses and desserts and 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 or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Sundays - Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. The menu is specially prepared by the new Greek Chef Konstantinos Panou – 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 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.

For more information call 4484-4096 or 4484-4444.

Sundays – Thursdays: Hilton Doha.

Choose three main dishes and one side dish for QR 95. Served within 45 minutes.

For more information call 4423-3118.

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THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

SPORTS

New - Yama Yoga at Dana Club Doha Mondays & Wednesdays: QR 60 for

Group Coaching Program

Sun 7: Art of Abundant Living: Takeoff on your journey into wellness with this unique group health coaching program. Your six month TRANSFORM program will radically improve your health and happiness. For more information call Jessica at 5547-2647 or visit www.artofabundantliving.com.

members and QR 75 for non-members.

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

Track Days Sat 6, 13, 20, 27: 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 http://www.circuitlosail.com.

OUT CHECK ening.com

p atarhap information! www.q st late for the

Qatar National Baja R1

Sat 27: 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.

Doha Mums Couch To 5k Running Program Mondays & Thursdays: Aspire Park.

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.

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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

l ta n e Ori Groove

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

Instructor Camelia

Oriental dance is heating up Doha as the popular art form is a great way to keep fit and have fun. QH took part in the hip-shaking rhythm with a new class at the Ritz-Carlton Doha.

L

et us be the first to say that Oriental dance is not as easy as it looks. We tripped, we sweated and by the end of it our hips were sore. But did we have fun? We had a blast! Starting last month the Ritz-Carlton Doha is hosting sessions every Tuesday and Sunday night as a new addition to their fitness class regimen at the spa, and with dynamic instructor Camelia at the helm you’ll be shaking and shimmying for a full hour.

before – don’t worry because once I see [a student] dancing I know that by the second or third class they will be able to do it.”

The choreography is smooth and fluid and mastering it is a continual learning process. Your core and leg muscles will get a hefty workout as much of the movement requires the lower half of the body to move independently from the chest and shoulders – and that requires strength and toning, at least in our case!

“Oriental dance helps you learn control over your body and it also teaches you how to relax”.

Hailing from Venezuela, Camelia has been performing and teaching Oriental dance for the past five years, showing her students the steps, the rhythm and most of all the heart and soul of the movements.

“Oriental dance helps you learn control over your body and it also teaches you how to relax,” she says. “It doesn’t matter the type of body you have, your age or if you haven’t done it

Camelia recommends students wear comfortable, breathable clothing to class and come barefoot. If you have a nice scarf to tie around your waist bring that along too. We were able to borrow a couple of extras that were on hand that had tassles and metallic discs, perfect for jingling and jangling along to the beat. We’ll definitely be back for more!

About Oriental Dance Classes Where: Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Doha When: Tuesdays and Sundays Timings: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Price: QR 50 per session

for non-members,

complimentary for spa members Restrictions: Ladies only Contact Info: 4484-8173 / 4484-8183 cameliacesin@gmail.com spa.doha@ritzcarlton.com

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SPORTS LISTINGS

Swimming

Wednesdays – Mondays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. 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.

3/15 Workout

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. This class draws on three 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.

Aerobics

Saturdays - Thursdays: IAID. Aerobics integrates the modern breakthroughs of Pilates, Zumba and high-intensity interval training. With exciting variations and the use of aero- weights, aero-steps, aero-kickboxing and hi-lo aerobics, participants enjoy a satisfying and fun work out. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

CLASSES Abs Workout

Wednesdays and Fridays: InterContinental Doha. 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.

Ballroom Dancing

Saturdays - Wednesdays: 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.

Spinning

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: InterContinental Doha. The spinning program has no complicated moves to learn, a motivating group environment, top-notch instructors and music that begs your legs to pedal. Best of all, spinning is adaptable to your fitness level. Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m., Fridays at 12:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.

QR 25 for members, QR 35 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Yoga

Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays: 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.

Yoga Classes – All Levels

Daily: Yama Yoga. Classes are now held at Dana Club Doha and Garveys. For more information call 6617-5802 or visit www.yamayogastudios.com.

Step AO2

Mondays and Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. 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.

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SPORTS LISTINGS

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Zumba

Mondays: InterContinental Doha. 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. It is 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.

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

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

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

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162

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RECOMMENDS

QH SENSATIONS

Editor’s Pick: Ashlee Aoud Gallery Fragrance

I’ve never been one to wear much fragrance but since making the move to the Middle East I found this delicious perfume while in Dubai a few months ago and haven’t stopped wearing it since. Aoud Gallery has a wide range of traditional Arabic scents for men and women and this one straddles the line between light and flowery with a little hint of musk. What I love most about it is the lavender undertones – they’re the perfect pick-me-up when you need that extra boost to get you through the day.

Check out many of the little shops in the Souk Waqif to find traditional perfumes and oils right here in Doha. Or visit www.aoud-gallery.com.

Soné Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

My highlight this month was enjoying a scrummy Red Velvet whoopie pie from Sugar and Spice Café in Lagoona Mall. The most delicious three bites you’ll ever have!

If you fancy making your own batch, you can visit www.taste.com.au for some easy ‘how-to’ tips on perfecting these melt-in-your-mouth treats.

Susanna Thai Foot Massage

For me, a foot massage is the perfect indulgence. U-Smile on the 2nd floor of City Center is just the ticket – it’s QR 140 for an hour and I don’t have to make an appointment. I really recommend it. Call 4411-5745 to book a treat of your own.

Jorge Nusantao New Lunch Menu

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atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Nusantao restaurant at the Four Seasons has a new one-of-a-kind lunch menu on offer that’s really scrumptious. Indulge in four delicacies, plus soup and appetizer perfectly priced at QR 130 per person.

Laura Ojon Hair Treatment

One way I’ve found to breathe life back into what sometimes feels like a bundle of straw on top of my head, is with this Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment. Invest in a tub, it will last some months as you only have to do the treatment once every 4-6 weeks for happy locks! You can order online at www.ojon.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

Wild Sri Lanka

Susanna and her daug

hter Constance

By Susanna Wolfe

If you’re looking for a family getaway that brings you back in touch with nature, look no further than The Fortress Resort and Spa on the lush south Sri Lankan coastline.

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QH SENSATIONS

A

My criteria for our summer holiday this year was abundant; we must experience wildlife and nature, see an explosion of greenery, and enjoy a little luxury and relaxation for Mum while my three-year old daughter had plenty to entertain her (not that I’m a high maintenance traveler!) Some friends told me about Sri Lanka and how friendly and welcoming the people are, so I found The Fortress online and it looked like it really fit the bill. A luxury boutique hotel with a kid’s club and spa – perfect!

The flight is four hours to Colombo from Doha and now that the highway has been built it only takes two hours to get to The Fortress near Galle, so it’s very do-able with kids. Although the smaller roads are slightly hair-raising at times, as tuc tucs and trucks seem to go head-to-head quite a lot.

At the beautiful giant gates of The Fortress, the huge bell is rung to announce our arrival.

It’s lovely to see manicured green hedges, trees and a grass lawn as we go through into an oasis of tranquility. The hotel has only fifty-three rooms so it feels like a majestic colonial house and not one of those huge, impersonal resorts. Through the openair columned foyer is the glittering infinity pool (that sparkles in different colours at night), overlooking the wildly wavy ocean. It’s so beautiful!

The restaurant is half indoors and half al fresco. At breakfast my daughter loved feeding the chipmunks that would appear from the trees. The food is delicious, especially the Lagoona Prawns at dinner – the prawn is the size of a lobster. There is a kids menu and the chef also kindly offered to make a kids portion of anything on the adult menu. My daughter loved making her own pizza with the chef at the outdoor wood-fired oven.

“It was the extra gestures and attention to detail that made our time at The Fortress a great experience”

We have an Ocean Room with a seven-foot wide bed – perfect if you’re sharing with your kids as you won’t event notice they’re there.

There’s a seating area with daybeds to enjoy all the mod cons including an iPod and satellite TV, which I was overjoyed about as I could watch Wimbledon every night. The bathrooms were modern and luxurious with a stand-alone shell-shaped bath and a walk-in family-sized shower.

The wonderful balcony view was over the garden, beach and sea. I loved the fact that I could hear the ocean from my bed.

Our bedding was changed every day and careful designs made from fresh flowers were left on the sheets, not to mention the yummy home-made biscuits given to us every night. The little touches turned this holiday into a real treat!

The hotel also has some turtle conservation tanks with large and baby turtles to visit as well as being able to spy wild turtles in the ocean at high tide – it’s a special tropical experience.

We traveled during the monsoon season and as we live in dry Qatar it was exciting to see the lashings of rain from time to time. My daughter hadn’t seen a lightning sea-storm before and the hotel provided a DVD library of kids movies just in case you got bored. But the rain didn’t last very long.

I was slightly concerned that traveling alone with my daughter, I wouldn’t get a rest. However, The Fortress staff were so friendly and kind to her that she said they were her new friends. I could relax on my sun bed without worrying where she was and when I visited the spa, she joined the kids club which was also supervised. I had treatments in the spa most days as well as

a private yoga lesson for my daughter and myself which we really enjoyed.

I’m always nervous about getting ill on holiday and we did have to call the doctor out once. He came very promptly and his pills did the trick.

It was the extra gestures and attention to detail that made our time at The Fortress a great experience. For me, traveling with a child, I find it hard to find one place that ticks all the boxes; I can truly say The Fortress did – it’s relaxed, stylish and low-key. You can visit Galle, go on safari, feed the elephants or relax in decadence overlooking the Indian Ocean. I’ll leave that decision up to you!

ABOUT THE FORTRESS RESORT AND SPA Ocean Room at The Hotel:

Fortress = $240 USD a night Website: www.thefortress.lk Email: info@thefortress.lk Telephone: +94 91 438-9400 Airfare:

Qatar Airways = QR 3,500 return trip, 1 adult, 1 child

Currency Exchange:

QR 1 = LKR 36 (Sri Lankan Rupee)

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Luxury-inspired,hotelstyle facilities

of Al Gassar Resort making it an iconic residential destination

A

l Gassar Resort, Doha’s iconic luxury waterfront destination, is the ideal choice for tenants seeking the luxury-inspired, hotelstyled facilities of the resort. Setting a new standard in the residential and hospitality sectors, Al Gassar Resort adds momentum to ongoing efforts of enhancing Qatar’s reputation as a premier luxury destination.

With its main strength being located and positioned directly on Doha’s pristine coastline, Al Gassar Resort is a key project that serves the rising demand for hotel-styled facilities and services in Qatar, while reinforcing Doha’s status as one of

the most dynamic cities in the region. Al Gassar Resort offers a distinctly unique lifestyle with its luxurious amenities that aim to pamper and exceed expectations of each resident and guest. Equipped with a complete range of hotel-like facilities, it offers exclusive membership to bachelors, business executives and families who are looking to enjoy its promise of a genuinely luxurious waterfront lifestyle in Doha.

Al Gassar Resort offers a choice of 422 beautifully furnished, spacious apartments along with rooftop penthouses and terraces, all equipped with top-of-the-line furnishing and appliances and balconies

overlooking Doha’s West Bay and the Arabian Gulf. The apartment designs are ideal for small families or couples and also for large families. The waterfront community also includes Al Gassar Ballroom, comprising of a 1,300 square meter ballroom and smaller function areas with a unique design, opulent furnishing and exquisite finishing as well as The St. Regis Hotel Doha, providing direct access to the luxuries and world-class facilities of the high-end hotel.

Mohamed Sleiman, Assistant COO, Resorts Development Company, said: “Ever since its opening,

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SPECIAL PROMOTION Al Gassar Resort has been considered a new landmark in luxury and sophistication in Doha as this waterfront destination provides unparalleled hospitality, residential, social and leisure amenities that ensure a truly luxurious living experience for all residents and guests.

The 5-star hotel-like experience and personalized services offered at Al Gassar Resort set the standard in the residential and hospitality industry, making it Doha’s much sought-after residential destination.”

Al Gassar Resort’s centrepiece, The St. Regis Doha, has been the hotel of choice for the world’s most discerning travelers with its selection of 336 luxury guest rooms, including 70 suites, offering full butler service and two Presidential Suites with two and three guest rooms, respectively. Residents at Al Gassar Resort can also enjoy the newly-opened restaurants at The St. Regis Doha and relish a unique culinary experience with restaurants such as Astor Grill, Hakkasan and Diwan Al-Sultan Ibrahim.

Owned by Resorts Development Company (RDC) and managed and developed by Alfardan Group, Al Gassar Resort is a posh waterfront community that offers residents and guests a wide range of value-added amenities, including 24/7 customer service, VIP concierge, laundry and dry cleaning, ample car parking, private limousine services, advanced around-the-clock security, café lounge and restaurant not to mention unparalleled recreation and leisure facilities. It also enjoys close proximity to key areas in Doha such as West Bay’s business district and the Doha Exhibition Center in addition to Doha’s cultural hub, Katara, making Al Gassar Resort perfect for both business and pleasure.

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QH SENSATIONS

A Glimpse of Portugal

By John Hunt

The Portuguese economy might be suffering, but thankfully that’s never going to affect the weather to be enjoyed and sights to be seen in its capital city, Lisbon.

Commercio Square

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QH SENSATIONS What to see

Lisbon airport is very close to the city centre. Taxis into town are fairly expensive

by Doha standards, but cheap by European standards. We paid QR 45 to get to our hotel, the Four Seasons Lisbon where we checked in and set about exploring our new home for the next few days.The city is charming. The tile-clad architecture that lines the cobbled (and very hilly!) streets is amazing to look at, although many of the buildings are in a state of elegant disrepair – which, to be fair, is a charm in itself. The locals are helpful and friendly.

English is spoken – or at least understood – everywhere.

Our first activity was a climb from Commercio Square in the centre of town, up to St Jorge’s Castle. The castle provides an excellent viewpoint over the city and beyond. Admission is QR 36 and worth it for the stunning views and photo opportunities alone.

Next up were the Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa (Lisbon Zoo) and the Oceanario aquarium. Although located on opposite sides of the city, the Metro (fast and frequent – day pass just QR 22) will get you there quickly. The zoo was excellent and relatively quiet. I was impressed by the large enclosures the animals had and best of all, there’s a dolphin show which is not to be missed. I’ve never seen anything like it, at times it was breathtaking. A cable car ride runs above and around the zoo and this is superb also. Admission is QR 60.

A visit to Lisbon is incomplete without riding the famous ‘Tram 28’. This tram has become popular with tourists to view the city without having to walk up and down its steep slopes. The route runs from one side of the city to the other, you can get off at the end and then jump on the next returning tram until you reach the end of the line. Back in the centre of town is the new MUDE Design Museum. It too is free and well worth a look.

Lisbon is a very walkable (or ‘tram ride-able’) city, very laid back, with a huge range of restaurants and cafés. It’s a beautiful (albeit battered in places) city with a superb climate and loads to see. It’s inexpensive, yet cosmopolitan and comes highly recommended. Take your walking shoes, though.

Where to stay

We stayed at the Four Seasons Ritz Hotel Lisbon, which was truly exceptional. The five-star property is superbly located overlooking a park just ten minutes walk from the city centre. Amenities include a modern, well-equipped gym (and rooftop running track) as well as a swimming pool and spa. The property is beautifully decorated, our room was huge and the service was impeccable. As you might imagine, it wasn’t cheap at QR 1,485 per night for a double room with breakfast, but you get what you pay for. If you’re looking for something less expensive there’s no shortage of accommodation options in Lisbon, to suit all budgets. It’s also not an expensive city, so you can get a decent spot for not a lot of cash.

How to get there

You can’t fly direct from Doha to Lisbon, but it’s not a hassle, either. Fly Qatar Airways to Rome, Zurich, Frankfurt or – closest – Madrid, for a connecting flight. Portuguese national carrier TAP offers the most options into Lisbon and it’s a competent and keenly-priced airline. Expect to pay a total of about QR 4,000 in economy or look for a flight/hotel package if you don’t want to ‘splurge’.

Dolphin show at

Lisbon Zoo

The Oceanario is also excellent and really well-designed. There are awesome sea turtles which swim below you as you stand on a glass walkway. The central aquarium is designed around one giant two-level tank (filled with some very mean-looking sharks) with many smaller tanks and displays around the outside. A highlight was some contented looking sea otters lying on their backs munching on pieces of crab, looked like a good life to me. Again admission is also QR 60.

Head out to the ‘Belem’ district (bus or tram – it’s not far) for the Jeronimos Monastery which is peaceful, photogenic and free to enter. Also be sure to stop off at the Cultural Centre’s Museum of Modern Art. The Centre houses a superb, well-displayed collection and entry is free.

View of the old city 111

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QH SENSATIONS

Spot-On

Skincare

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Spa treatments are always a relaxing experience and let’s be honest, everyone likes to be pampered once in a while. But how effective are they really? QH goes beyond a simple review to recommend readers a treatment that actually works in the long run.

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QH SENSATIONS The Facts

Description of my skin condition: - Broken capillaries on the nose and cheeks area - Irritation from shaving on the neck - Some small pimples with pus on the beard area

I

’ve reviewed several spas in Doha since working for Qatar Happening.

Fortunately I’ve never had a bad experience. Whenever I’ve had a facial, body wrap or massage the immediate result is visible, but after a few days my skin goes back to the way it was before.

So I thought it was time to test drive something new. A couple of months ago I started approaching spas all over the city that would be up for the challenge of proving that if one follows a specific regime and program the results would be remarkable and would last. After many tries I found the Spa & Wellness Centre at the Four Seasons Hotel Doha. They’re confident that their therapist’s skills and products are unmatchable in the market and will prove to me and our readers why the Four Seasons not only have a spectacular infrastructure, but also one of the best spas in the region.

The Project

Our faces are our presentation to the world. Whenever we meet someone the first part of the body that people focus on is the face. So for my project I decided that facials would be the way to go. By being the guinea pig, through my own experience I’ll underline the effectiveness of regular facials and a home skincare regime. A certified beauty therapist examined my skin and came up with a monthly program to improve damage from the A.C., hot weather, sun, sand, dust, stress and shaving. The treatment that I’ll go through is recommended for any man who has the same skin condition as I do and includes bi-weekly facials for a month, plus homecare. After four weeks I’ll see a significant change in my face that I am willing to share with our readers, walking you through the entire process and not hiding anything. For the next two issues you’ll be along for the ride and together we’ll discover the value of taking care of our appearance.

- Blackheads and whiteheads around the nose

- Rejuvenating Moisturizer to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and signs of aging through deep hydration. Firms and tones skin using Avocado Oil, Shea Butter, Sandalwood and Vitamin E and B5.

- Calming Face Mist with Rose Hydrosol to reduce irritation and redness, cool and smooth sensitive skin and balance PH levels.

Reasons to have regular facials: - To improve and maintain skin condition - To balance sebum production and PH levels - To refine texture and prevent future breakouts - To strengthen capillaries - By having a deep cleansing facial regularly you not only remove and diminish the appearance of blackheads/ whiteheads, but you also prevent them from re-appearing

Jorge’s Facial Program:

Deep-Cleansing Facial: 90 mins, QR 755 To be performed on the first visit to prepare the skin for the next step in the treatment.

What we’re trying to achieve: - Lessen the visibility of broken capillaries and prevent new ones from cropping up.

Sodashi Sensitive Facial: 60 mins, QR 665 A package of ten sessions to be performed every six days.

Look for the results of Jorge’s second Sodashi Sensitive Facial Treatment and review in our November issue!

- Calm and soothe the skin after shaving and avoid irritation.

- To balance the PH level of my skin by using home-care.

The products:

- Recovery Skin Booster with Concentrated Plant and Marine Extracts with Seaweed, Rosewood and Carrot Seed that deeply oxygenate skin to restore vitality, as a home-care.

- Clean Skin Cleanser with Lime, Jojoba Oil and White Argiletz Clay to dissolve impurities and excess oil.

- Rejuvenating Face Concentrates of Rosewood, Lemon and Lavender to gently soften, exfoliate and re-texture the skin.

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QH SENSATIONS EXPERIENCE

Escaping to fantastic happening destinations around the world does wonders. Here are some

Abu Dhabi Film Festival Oct 11 - 20: U.A.E. Established in 2007, this vibrant fest of all things film gets better by the year! Less than an hour flight from Qatar the big screen awaits, where Arab filmmakers will stand shoulder to shoulder with the major talents of world cinema.

Curators promise an exceptional program to engage and educate the local community, inspire filmmakers and nurture the growth of the regional film industry. Yell ‘’action!’’ right here: www.abudhabifilmfestival.ae.

Cape Town International Kite Festival Oct 22 - 23: South Africa It’s Africa’s biggest kite festival!

Over 20,000 visitors gather to fly and gaze open-mouthed at the dancing flying fancies. This festival welcomes some of the biggest names in kiting in the world who fly in to show off their magnificent creations. With kite-making, kite-flying, food stalls, kiddie rides, a full program of entertainment and an eclectic craft market, this is family entertainment at its best. Soar to new heights: hit www.sa-venues.com/events for all the details.

World Crazy Golf Championship Oct 29 - 30: United Kingdom Crazed-up crazy golf fans flock to the seaside English town of Hastings each year to putt for gold! With some serious cash prizes up for grabs all competitors have to do is navigate the legendary miniature courses’ lighthouses, windmills and waterwheels. Swing into action here: www.minigolf.org.uk.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival Oct 29 - 30: Thailand The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is an annual event held during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar.

During the celebrations, local residents strictly observe a 10-day vegetarian or vegan diet for the purposes of spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Ancient rituals and heart-stopping displays such as walking barefoot over hot coals and ascending ladders with bladed rungs are performed by entranced devotees! Veg out at www.phuketvegetarian.com.

VIEW Conference Oct 16 - 19: Italy

VIEW Conference is the premiere international event in Italy on Computer Graphics, Interactive Techniques, Digital Cinema, 2D/3D Animation, Gaming and VFX. Held in Torino it will focus on exploring the increasingly fluid boundary between real and digital worlds. This is your chance to take part in lectures and meetings with top industry experts and view exhibits, screenings and demo presentations to uncover the new digital frontier sweeping the globe. Turn to the cyber-world to book your trip: www.viewconference.it.

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QH SENSATIONS VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

VIRGIN RECOMMENDS QH brings you the top staff picks from the Megastore

NAME: Aireen Alaann TIME AT VIRGIN: 3 Years

NATIONALITY: FilipinA STORE SECTION: Music INTERESTING FACT: Used to be a singer in a band

‘’Music is my passion so I love working in this section of the store. I get to listen to music all day at work… how cool is that? This month I’ve selected five of the latest albums hot off the Virgin shelves to tickle your musical taste buds!” – Aireen NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL MUSIC - 82 This stalwart compilation just keeps going! Hit’s-a-plenty with all the latest tracks straight out of the charts on one bumper CD. Great for weekends and driving on road trips with friends!

PASHA HITS Best Of Ibiza A collection for the more discerning dance music listener, or if you want to try something a little less mainstream, the Pasha brand puts out some of the best house music on Earth! This one rounds up the sweetest beats from the White Isle.

SMASH HITS Summer 2012 Again, another classic compilation series. ‘Smash Hits’ smashes it out of the park again for 2012 with all your favourite songs fresh from the charts.

Something for everyone and a solid addition to any music collection

MAROON 5 Overexposed Maroon 5 continue to turn out the hits such as ‘Payphone’ and ‘One More Night’ that’ll have you singing along with them in no time. The band took a more collaborative approach on this record so expect some current voices and sounds too.

JASON MRAZ Love Is a Four Letter Word Lush, acoustic numbers for those of you who like it chilled and meaningful, this is Jason’s debut record. If you like James Blunt or Newton Faulkner this could be just your thing.

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SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES

coming ... soon

TOP

Get front row centre with this month’s top flicks

The Master Drama A naval veteran arrives home from war unsettled and uncertain of his future - until he is tantalized by The Cause and its charismatic leader.

Director: Paul Thomas Anderson Stars: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Joaquin Phoenix and Amy Adams QH Fun Fact: This is the first Hollywood movie in 16 years to be shot entirely on 65mm film format with Panavision’s state-of-the-art System 65 camera. Talk about sharp!

Arbitrage Drama | Thriller

Resident Evil: Retribution Action | Horror | Sci-Fi Alice fights alongside a resistance movement in the continuing battle against the Umbrella Corporation and the undead.

Director: Paul W.S. Anderson Stars: Milla Jovovich, Sienna Guillory and Michelle Rodriguez

A troubled hedge fund magnate desperate to complete the sale of his trading empire makes an error that forces him to turn to an unlikely person for help.

QH Fun Fact: Zombie dogs give you a thrill? Sadly, this is the first film of the series not to feature the undead hounds. Bugger!

Directors: Nicholas Jarecki

Finding Nemo 3D

Stars: Richard Gere, Susan Sarandon and Brit Marling

Animation | Adventure | Comedy

QH Fun Fact: The legendary Al Pacino was originally cast as the lead but was replaced shortly before filming began with the equally legendary Richard Gere. Wonder why they made the switch?

Liberal Arts Comedy | Drama When 30-something Jesse returns to his alma mater for a professor’s retirement party, he falls for Zibby, a college student, and is faced with a powerful attraction that springs up between them.

Director: Josh Radnor Stars: Josh Radnor, Elizabeth Olsen and Zac Efron QH Fun Fact: Director and star Josh Radnor shot the majority of the film on the campus of his old school, Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Talk about keeping it local!

After his son is captured in the Great Barrier Reef and taken to Sydney, a timid clownfish sets out on a journey to bring him home.

Director: Andrew Stanton, Lee Unkrich Stars: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres and Alexander Gould QH Fun Fact: Nigel is a Brown Pelican in the film. But the species is not native to Australia where the movie is set – the Australian Pelican looks quite different.

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The Dish on Qatar: New to the country? Welcome to the desert! This month we examine the ins and outs of Qatar’s labour and sponsorship laws for new employees.

What’s an NOC you ask?

Demographics Qatar is a booming nation with an exponential growth rate. With a heavy reliance on ex-pats in the workforce the country’s immigrant population makes up close to 80 per cent of the national total.

Like many other countries in the GCC if you’re making a move to Qatar to work you will need to have a sponsor to reside in the country. In the majority of cases this person would be your employer and they must be a Qatari national. (Tourists can enter the country on a 30-day tourist visa which in most cases can be purchased upon arrival at Doha International Airport for QR 150.)

The largest percentage of the non-native labour force comes from Asia, with European and North American employees comprising other large groups. Once a person has secured sponsorship and an employment contract with their company they may bring over their spouses and children who may be sponsored privately under their name. This means that extended family members can look for work wherever they want and do not need an NOC to transfer jobs.

Well, under the current labour and sponsorship laws if an employee wishes to leave their company their employer holds the right to prohibit them from seeking employment elsewhere and may even require them to leave the country for a minimum of two years before they may re-enter to seek new sponsorship. An NOC is a ‘no objection certificate’ and is granted to an employee upon leaving their job so that they may transfer their sponsorship to another company – the only caveat is that it’s issued at the discretion of the employer and as of yet is not always a common occurrence here in Qatar. It is however becoming more common for higher-level employees to request an NOC in their contract before accepting a job position. But for the majority of the workforce who do not have the accessibility to negotiate their contracts this is not a feasible option.

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Know your rights

Coming and going While under your employer’s sponsorship you will need an exit permit to leave and re-enter the country should you have to travel for business or holiday. This is a form that your employer must pay for, fill out online and submit to immigration stating the dates that you are traveling and that you have their permission to exit and re-enter. Depending on your employer you can sometimes negotiate to receive a multiple-exit permit for a cost of QR 500. This system has come under scrutiny as the international community is encouraging Qatar to re-examine the sponsorship program from a human rights perspective given that it affects people’s mobility. Recently Saudi Arabia announced it would be taking steps to abolish its sponsorship program, though it is still in practice in many other GCC countries.

Qatar has several governmental bodies that deal with issues regarding employment and sponsorship and advocate for the rights of all workers.

The Ministry of Labour’s Department of Labour Relations has legislation in place that allows workers to lodge complaints, sue for damages and seek exemption from court fees should they have a dispute with their employer. Some of the protections afforded to workers include the right to have access to appropriate housing and healthcare while under sponsorship, protection of wages, compliance of occupational health and safety standards, 50 days maternity leave for female employees and a prohibitive clause so that no female employee can have her job terminated due to pregnancy or marriage.

Visit www.mol.gov.qa to stay informed.

Another avenue for employees seeking restitution is the National Human Rights Committee. Independent of any governmental agencies, the NHRC operates on an international level to assist in a watchdog capacity, overseeing and ensuring that all new and revised government legislation is in line with international human rights standards. They also assist individuals on a case-by-case basis to advocate for themselves if there have been human rights infringements by an employer. They provide education and skill-building services to raise awareness so the public knows their rights as employees and may defend themselves and advocate for their best interests. Visit www.nhrc-qa.org to learn more about this important organization.

Have your say We’d love to hear your comments and feedback on your work experiences here in Qatar. Get in touch with us on Twitter @qatarhappening or through our Qatar Happening Facebook group.

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IT HAPPENED

DJ Laura O’Shea

Red Apple Full Moon Party Sealine Beach Resort Aug 30, 2012

DJ Tora

Global DJs Glow in the Dark Party, InterContinental Doha Sept 6, 2012

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IT HAPPENED

Tangia Restaurant Grand Opening Wyndham Grand Regency Sept 16, 2012

Photo Credits: Jalal Pathiyoor

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IT HAPPENED

Chef Jonathan Alston

Jones the Grocer Master Class The Gate Sept 1, 2012

Chef Keiran McKay

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IT HAPPENED

Al Najada Boutique Hotel brunch Souq Waqif Sept 3, 2012

Right: Russell Loughland, Director of Sales and Marketing

Second from Right: Gavin Rimmer, Hotel Manager

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IT HAPPENED

Centre: Leslie Garcia-Moica, Director of Public Relations Second from Right: Chef Rudy Peterson

Astor Grill Grand Opening The St. Regis Doha Sept 4, 2012

Left: Executive Chef Brendan McGowan

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IT HAPPENED

SUCQ Eid Comedy Show Bistro61 Aug 31, 2012

Left: Halal Bilal, SUCQ Founder and Comedian

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PHONE DIRECTORY

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

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trad. & Cont. Co.

4442-8877

Interior Design Forum Design

4456-8716

Hotels / Restaurants Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 Biella 4467-7731 Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Saad St. 4431-4411 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/

4411-8817 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4220 Hilton Doha 4423-3333 InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale Hotel 4428-8888 4409 4434 Merwebhotel Central Doha 4429-1111 Mövenpick Hotel Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6115 4402-3333 Oryx Rotana 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 Sizzling Hot Pot 4411-5225/ 4411-5335 St. Regis Doha 4483-1644 Swiss-Belhotel Doha 4407-8888 The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444 The Noodle House 4411-5063 4446-5600 The Torch Doha Hotel W Doha 4453-5353 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

999 4438-4333 4435-5999 4489-8000

Doha Dental 4431-7766 Hamad General Hospital 4439-2222 Rumailah Hospital 4439-3333 Pediatric Emergency Centre 4439-2948 Qatar Foundation for Child & Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671 / 72 / 73

Health / Beauty

Shopping

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 4499-9250 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 4425-6999 Six Senses Spa Spa Chakra 4499-9250

Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 4469-4848 Hyatt Plaza Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Royal Plaza 4413-0000 Salam 4448-5555 The Gate Mall 4493-2524 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villagio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

Tourism / Travel Alpha Tours Arabian Adventures World Wide Destination Emirates Airlines Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Qatar Airways Reservations 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 4438-4477 4462-2777 4422-1888 4449-6666 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141

Community Australian and New Zealand 6651-1892 Business in Qatar Group American Women’s Association 5511-8085 Doha Players 4447-4911 Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171 French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467 4487-6959 German Stammtisch Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052 Qatar Intl. Beauty Academy 4454-2422 Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 Red Dotters Qatar 5520-9294 4435-2598 Silver Dhow Association South African Ladies Association 5589-2366 Spanish Speaking Ladies Group 6664-2094 Talking Matters Toastmasters 5580-7524 5550-8026 Turkish Ladies Group

Clubs Bridge Club Doha Garden Club Dana Club Doha Golf Club Doha Sailing Club Filcom Toastmasters Club Qatar Scientific Club

5554-0873 5523-1650 4496-0600 4496-0777 4443-9840 5540-3971 4458-3780

4499-7499 4434-4444 4466-6635

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