Qatar Happening - April 2012

‘Qatar

Discovery’

Brings the Beauty of the Nation to the Big Screen

The 1,001 Arabian Nights At Al Mourjan

Best Restaurant Winner 2011

pg 36

OUT om K C E CH appening.c

Qatar Discovery

atarh information! www.q test for the

la

CONTENTS

APRIL IN EVERY ISSUE 6 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LETTER

17 TOP PICKS 18 Hed Kandi The UK-based label brings top DJs to

QH’s editor-in-chief tells you what’s happening this month.

10 QH RECOMMENDS Our favourite monthly round-up

11 EVENTS CALENDAR Pullout monthly events calendar with

the InterContinental

19 All That Jazz

Smooth tunes at the Gulf Jazz Festival

20 Mad Dash for Tash Interview with ‘The Deep End’ musician

happening events in Doha

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

128 PHONE DIRECTORY Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

ENTERTAINMENT

24 The Music Man The best house music news courtesy

35 TOP PICKS 36 Qatar Discovery A new view of the nation

38 He’s Got Rhythm QPO'S Ng Kee Guan

43 ARTS AND CULTURE LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

of DJ Mark Bambach

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

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

pg 20

COMMUNITY

Mad Dash for Tash

45 TOP PICKS 46 The Dean’s List Interview with Northwestern’s

Everette E. Dennis

48 Sweet Epidemic A new website looks at Qatar’s diabetes crisis

50 I Love Qatar Shining a light on our friendship with Japan

52 Best Beaches Where to go to cool down and relax

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

57 TOP PICKS KIDS CLUB Fun adventures with the kids 58 KIDS CLUB LISTINGS Ideas to do with the kids

SPORTS

FOOD & DINING 61 TOP PICKS 62 Layali

81 TOP PICKS 82 MotoGPTM

Restaurant - Review

64 Mamig Restaurant - Review 67 Al Mourjan Chef Recipe

68 FOOD AND DINING LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar

86 QSL The Heir Apparent Cup kicks off 88 SPORT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going

on this month

QH SENSATIONS 104 The Healing Touch

Paul Emery brings hands-on healing at Six Senses Spa

106 Fraser Suites Spa

Spa Review 108 The Deficiency The low-down on Vitamin D

110 EASTER LISTINGS Follow the bunny trail to Easter fun

113 Reasons to Fly

Our pick of top honeymoon destinations

114 VIRGIN RECOMMENDS Virgin Megastore’s top gadgets this month

116 TOP MOVIES This month's top five films

117 The Dish on Qatar

Top tips for travelers and expats For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email to info@qatarhappening.com

ICULINARY BRINGEXCITEMENT TO YOU FROM THE FAR EAST

MY NAME IS

FOR RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CONTACT THE HOTEL DIRECTLY AT 4494 8601 OR EMAIL NUSANTAO.DOH@FOURSEASONS.COM OR VISIT WWW.FOURSEASONS.COM/DOHA

FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR IN CHIEF April is here and the weather is slowly but surely getting warmer as we begin the slow creep towards the summer months. As Doha heats up, QH brings you the best ways to cool down with our top beaches and pools round-up. With many hotels offering prime waterfront access there’s no reason not to head outside with friends and family and enjoy the beautiful weather.

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

We are also proud to feature a spotlight on Northwestern University in this month’s issue in an interview with its Dean Everette E. Dennis; a scholar and guru in mass communications he brings a strong new vision to higher education at Northwestern here in Qatar.

Editorial Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Graphic Designers: Soné Moriarty, Zahi Srour Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Jeniffer Daclan Ruiz

We also bring you information on an important new website educating the public on the national diabetes crisis. Created by senior students at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern, the Sweet Epidemic site is an invaluable resource that puts a human face on the disease while providing all the facts you need to know to manage it and live a healthier life.

Photographer: Jessie Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Business Development Consultant: Kristina Helg Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Mark Bambach, Sydnee Bryant, Alex Corey, Khalifa Saleh Haroon, Christina Maria Paschyn, John Romauld Ruiz, Munazza Sayed, Victoria Scott

The falcon, a symbol of Qatar, calls out to readers on the cover this month as QH highlights ‘Qatar Discovery’ in our Arts and Culture section. This documentarystyle film is the first of its kind to be produced in Qatar by Firefly Pictures, setting the beauty of our natural and urban landscapes to an intriguing and enigmatic musical score.

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

On the entertainment scene this month we bring you an in-depth interview with Tash, the newest artist to sign with Sony Music Entertainment Middle East and one of the fastest-climbing musicians on the Arabic pop-charts. His new album ‘The Deep End’ is available at Virgin Megastores – don’t miss it!

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

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

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

In sports the Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP ) comes to Losail International Circuit from April 5-8. Satisfy your need for speed at this world-class championship event and let QH bring you all the details on ticket prices, timings and race divisions. We hope to see you out there in the stands.

TM

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

Thank you for making us a part of your lives.

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

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

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

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor in Chief

2012 QH COVER i.pdf

1

3/22/12

10:16 AM

Sweet Epidemic

New Website Sheds Light on the Diabetes Crisis in Qatar

QR 8

April 2012

Falcon in the desert Photo credit: Jessie Palanca

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Take a Bite Out of Hed Kandi Live at the InterContinental

‘Qatar

Discovery’

150+ Event Listings That Will Keep You Entertained

Brings the Beauty of the Nation to the Big Screen

6

ON THE COVER

Hop over to the Seasons restaurant on Sunday April 8th from 12 pm until 3.30 pm to indulge in an eggs-travagant Easter brunch.

Designed by Executive Chef Ery Irmansjah, the lavish spread includes carving and live cooking stations, a seafood display, a bountiful salad bar and an endless dessert selection.

Tons of fun activities await the little ones including egg colouring and a treasure hunt in search of the hidden prize courtesy of Lone Star Jewelry.

Get together

Mรถvenpick Hotel Doha Corniche Road, P.O. Box 24220, Doha, Qatar Phone +974 4429 1111, Fax +974 4429 1100 hotel.doha@moevenpick.com

celebrate Easter

RECOMMENDS

April means spring has sprung and so has wedding season. This month we rounded up our favourite indulgent items that also make fabulous wedding gifts! Saying “I do” doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. Enjoy!

EDITOR’S PICK Red Velvet Cupcakes Ashlee

Slow Cooker

I am terrible at giving presents. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, baby shower or any other special occasion I agonize over what to get. So I usually do what I do best and instead of buying them something I prefer to make them something special; and since I love to cook and bake I’d have to recommend some red velvet cupcakes – the most romantic of baked goods. A popular trend at weddings recently is to forgo the fancy, expensive cake and go with a lovely banquet display of cupcakes.

They’re fun, tasty and much more costeffective! If you’re not handy in the kitchen and don’t want to risk a sugary disaster then Red Velvet Cupcakery in Katara has some of the best delectable morsels you can find! Made ready to order!

Marlynne

Barocco Tableware Soné Giving a good wedding present can be tricky, but Zara Home makes it easy by selling this lovely Barocco Tableware set.

This bohemian china tableware set is manufactured at very high temperatures to make it very robust, so it’s perfect for everyday use. You can buy the pieces individually as well as in a set. My favourite item has to be the pretty teacup and saucer – a girl can never have too many teacups I say!

10

This is perfect for two! For newlyweds the transition from being single to a ‘couple’ is a big change. I was recently married last month and cooking for myself and my husband has been an adjustment. We both love to eat and this slow cooker from Lakeland (City Centre) is a dream come true for every husband and wife! This gem will do all the cooking for you, just put in the vegetables, meat and seasoning and you’re good to go. So when you both come home late and tired from work, all you have to do is open the lid and your food is ready. A+ for a wedding present!

Beauty Flash Balm

by Clarins Susanna This has to be an essential part of your skin preparation on your big day – I think it is a miracle worker! There’s no need to worry if you haven’t slept a wink the night before, this cream eliminates all signs of fatigue and fills in any fine lines! It gives immediate radiance, brightens the face and tightens your features.

It will give you a glow and also help keep your make-up on all day long.

QH RECOMMENDS QH Team Out & About

A trip to the

printers

Camera Jenny Thinking of presents I always want to give something lasting and useful, or symbolic and meaningful. For a newlywed couple, a camera is an awesome gift for their big day! With this, the newlyweds can chronicle their new life together starting from their honeymoon, to their early years of marriage, up to giving birth, watching the kids grow up and beyond. When they look back at these photos they’ll remember those moments exactly as they were. It’s a wonderful feeling to laugh and cry while remininscing over those moments of joy while getting everyone together to say “cheese”. Cheers to life’s precious moments!

Money Lanie When one of my friends is getting married I am constantly struggling with what to buy them.

Lately I’ve realized that the easiest and most practical gift I can give is MONEY. You know why? I don’t have to face that battle of what to get them, will they like it or will someone else get it for them first. The most important thing with money is that couples can buy what they really need at home or for themselves and I’m pretty sure they will always remember your thoughtfulness in giving them the freedom to choose their best gift ever!

15

TOP PICKS ENTERTAINMENT THIS MONTH'S

AND NIGHTLIFE

Cooking Master Class

Sat 7th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. This spring, international and award-winning chefs will take you through the planning and preparation of a great menu you can present to your family and friends at home. Each class will include a three-course menu, focusing on basic fine dining, cooking techniques, proper equipment needs and plate presentation. From 10:30 a.m. followed by lunch. QR 265 per person. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Qube

Thurs 19th: Ramada Plaza. Don’t miss Grammy-award winning DJ, DMC Champion, writer and producer, the magnificent DJ Jazzy Jeff! He will perform along with Mad Skillz, with warm up by DJ Legacy featuring MC Josey Kray.

Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Membership required. QR 120 per person, ladies free.

For more information, call 4428-1555.

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Hush Bongos Performing Live

Fri 20th: W Doha. Big Friday night with DJ Greg and world renowned percussionist Hush host Carnival Party! From 11:00 p.m. till 2.30 a.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.

R&B Divas Dedicated to Whitney Houston Fri 13th: Grand Hyatt Doha. London’s Coco Latté and DJ Mark Bambach present a night of R&B and commercial house dedicated to the music of much-missed pop diva Whitney Houston and her R&B sisters. From 9:00 p.m. Ladies free entry, gents QR 100 inclusive of a drink. For more information call 7719-2974 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com

The Art of Cocktail Making

Fri 20th: Sharq Village & Spa. Impress friends and family with top tips from the Cigar Lounge team. Tastings and recipes available to take away. QR 210 per person.

From 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4425-6666.

17

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Hed Kandi Brings The Ear Candy

From the bright lights of the London club scene to the sandy beaches of Doha, renowned house-label Hed Kandi lands at the InterContinental on April 12 with their World Series Miami ensemble. QH brings you all you need to know to get lost on the global dance-floor.

G

et your tickets now, ‘cause they’re going to go fast for this beachside party at the InterContinental.

A household name for club kids since the release of their first compilation ‘Nu Cool’ in 1999, theUK-based music brand is spear-headed by Mark Doyle. With their unique Nu-Disco soundwave the label has collaborated with the best DJs around the globe, producing some of the most well-loved albums and compilations and headlining at clubs world-wide from the neon village of Vegas to the pulsing tides of Ibiza.

18

ABOUT HED KANDI The World Series Miami set at the InterContinental will include DJs and artists from the four corners of the globe including DJ Steven Quarré, world-famous percussionist Dean Oram, saxophonist Lady Vand, Doha’s finest Jared McCulloch, DJs Paul Mendez, Steve Kz, Carl Roberts and Eski. Hosting more than 1,000 parties globally each year, entertaining more than 1.5 million people, Hed Kandi will rock the beachfront and your eardrums like never before!

Date April 12th Venue: InterContinental Doha beachfront Tickets: On sale at Virgin Megastores,

Crepaway and the InterContinental

Hotel lobby Prices: Ladies: QR 150 Gents: QR 200

VIP: QR 350 Website: www.globaldjs.org

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

All That

Jazz

Jazz lovers can tune up their saxophones and get ready to get into the groove as the fourth edition of the Gulf Jazz Festival is back in Doha on April 29 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel ballroom. QH highlights some of the talented musicians performing at this year’s event.

M

ichaela Rabitsch and Robert Pawlik will be among the many performers at the 2012 Gulf Jazz Festival here in Doha. The musical talents of the Austrian duo have brought them accolades from jazz fans around the world, touring to promote their newest album ‘Moods’.

Michaela, a singer, composer and Austria’s only top female jazz trumpet player and her ingenious partner – composer and guitar player Robert Pawlik début ten original jazz compositions on their latest release.

Reflecting and melding their unique styles, the collaboration includes both traditional and funky/fusion influences to the genre. Together they’ve developed a rich and layered sound, looking for the core message of each song they are writing or playing and how best to express it.

As international touring artists, Michaela and Robert have performed at festivals and jazz clubs across the globe and Doha is proud to welcome them to the Middle East at the Gulf Jazz Festival!

Other talented acts at this year’s event include: •Full Drive -led by legendary Polish saxophonist Henryk Miskiewicz.

•Special star Vivian Buczek Swedish jazz singer The Gulf Jazz Festival is supported by the Scandinavian Business Council Qatar, IBQ and the Embassy of Poland – a Diamond Sponsor for two years. The festival will open its doors at 7:00 p.m. on the April 29 to 500 spectators and over 100 guests of the sponsors and supporters of the event.

The Festival will be advertised at Virgin Megastores, Yamaha shops/centres, embassies and local music centres.

19

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

A Mad Dash for Tash

By Ashlee Starratt Photos courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment Middle East

With his star rising in the Arab music world since the release of his first single and video for ‘Habibi Leh’, Tash is set to take over the Middle Eastern pop-culture scene with a fresh sound and sleek beats that meld the best of Arabic, Oriental and R&B influences. His new album ‘The Deep End’ was released last month to a strong reception on the airwaves. QH talked to the up-and-coming artist to find out how he’s enjoying the ride to the top.

QH: You’re the first Arabic/ English artist to be signed with Sony Music Entertainment Middle East. Tell us what’s going through your mind with this milestone?

QH: Your first single ‘Habibi Leh’ is already getting major play on the airwaves across the Gulf region. What other tracks from the album can fans look forward to next?

T: I feel so privileged to be in this position and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.

Right now it’s important for me to focus on being the best I can be, give it 100 percent and trust in the future outcome. There are so many exciting things happening and I’m just trying to enjoy each step.

T: The next track being promoted is ‘Hypnotised’ featuring D.A. It’s sung in English but there’s definitely a subtle Arabic feel to it. I’m very excited and a little anxious to see how the public will respond to it. It’s definitely one of my favourites from the album.

QH: How do you hope your listeners relate to your music in both languages? Is it challenging to bridge that gap?

QH: How did you find yourself in the music industry? If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?

T: I don’t really think about how I can bridge a gap whilst I’m making my music.

Combining Eastern and Western flavours is something I’ve always loved doing -- it just feels natural for me to take my music in that direction. It’s nice that it’s being labeled as a bridge but first and foremost it’s something I love doing. I put a lot of myself into my music and many of my tracks are based around personal experiences which I’m hoping people can relate to regardless of the language I’m singing in.

T: I put a lot of energy into promoting my material and ended up working as a music producer for a London-based publishing company. It was there I came into contact with Sony ME who took a shine to my music. Even if I wasn’t fortunate enough to be in the position I am today regarding my musical career I would still be making music just like I’ve always done- it’s such a core part of me. I used to teach English to foreign students which I really enjoyed so I think I’d probably be doing this in different countries if I wasn’t working in music right now.

20

QH: Were there any especially crazy/fun moments during the making of the music video for ‘Habibi Leh’?

T: The whole experience was so much fun.

It was a rainy and freezing cold day and all of us were shivering especially during the scenes shot on the rooftop. I really felt for some of the extras who were wearing very little- but they did a great job regardless! It was a great day.

QH: Will you be touring soon?

Can you give us some dates/ times?

T: There’s a lot of preparation going into that right now. I’m really looking forward to touring other parts of the region and will definitely keep you posted with the dates and times!

QH: Do you have your sights set on Europe or North America in the near future?

T: Of course, it would be great to share my music with other places in the world but I feel like there’s still so much more I have to do in the Middle East and I really want to put all of my energy into it before thinking about anywhere else.

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

ABOUT

TASH

‘The Dee pE outlets in nd’ is available at V Villaggio

and Lan irgin Megastore dmark m alls. .

21

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Mother of Pearl!

The Pearl Lounge in the Marriott Hotel is the hotspot of Doha’s nightlife scene. With its sleek, chic design the main level of the club boasts an inviting dance floor, leather armchairs, an elevated DJ booth and two unique full service bars. The second level offers an intimate environment complete with comfortable seating, a VIP area and full service bar.

QH takes a look at what’s happening this month.

The club has attracted thousands of partygoers for years and this April the party is on!

QH brings you the details.

Events in April Happy Hour: Starting April 1 daily between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. enjoy and unwind with two for the price of one beverages.

Registration Guidelines; * All residents and nationals who wish to enter the Pearl Lounge Club must apply 22

for a Registration I.D. card at the club for a fee of 50 QR, by presenting their Qatari I.D. Card or original passport with a valid entry visa in Doha. * Must be at least age 21 and above. * Ladies get complimentary registration.

Dress Code: * No athletic shoes, flips flops or work boots * No caps, hats or other head covering * No casual T-shirts, cargo pants or exces sively baggy clothes

* Smart dress only – it’s not what you wear, but how you wear it.

Timings: * Open daily from 9 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. * Last call for drinks is 1:45 a.m. * Drinks will not be served after 2:00 a.m.

Booking is required in advance so make reservations by calling 4429-8444 or 6605-4192 after 06:00 daily.

i en op

or s Kh nt l ra A au & st ra 2 re ou 01 w am il 2 ne M r 2 Al Ap e in lat

ng

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

The Music Man

By Mark Bambach

Mark Bambach is resident DJ at Rocca, poolside at the Grand Hyatt, West Bay Lagoon. Catch him there on Thursday and Friday nights every week. Mark also spins Buddha Bar’esque tunes every Friday afternoon at The Grill Brunch also at the Grand Hyatt.

The Budding DJ I was fortunate enough to be given a DJ console back in the 90’s in London that was handed down from a well known radio station; when I was given the console I spent hours, days and months in my bedroom learning the skill of mixing.

I learned to mix on a vinyl turntable so outdated by today’s standards, it would definitely belong in a museum. I took me the better part of a year to learn the art of ‘mixing’ and to feel confident to play out in a club.

Stepping forward in time with new technology and DJ software programs for the new generation of laptop DJs, things are much easier -- and trust me I love DJ-ing via laptop to CDJ mixers, it’s very organized! But I can’t help thinking that the modern DJ is missing a vital part of the art –mixing. A few kinds of software today mix the tracks for you, and that for me is not DJ-ing. Though mixing is only one part of what being a DJ is about; you also have to feel the music, choose the right tracks at the right time and most importantly turn the dance floor into a frenzy.

So if you’re thinking of becoming a DJ I would suggest this: Get yourself a set of CD mixers and a DJ mixer. Learn the art of mixing, as it will help you understand the formation of dance music, which will undoubtedly help you if you’re also a budding producer. You don’t need top of the range CD turntables; choose a cheaper 24

alternative first time round, like a Pioneer CDJ-200. Try out a software program like Serato where you must learn to mix yourself without the aid of ‘autopilot’.

Also, to ease into the field, choose a more minimal style of dance music – something that emphasizes the beats rather than the melodies. It will still be easier than how it was when I first began, there were no beats per minute readers when I started, but I can’t tell you how many hours of pleasure (and frustration) I got from learning the art of mixing.

and probably release her next album when she is 25 or 26. I can guarantee though that won’t happen, these days in the music industry an artist has to constantly churn out albums, which are generally forced prematurely by the record companies.

A new Aaliyah album?

IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH Five years for the next Adele album?

Can we wait that long? No, is the answer.

Imagine the huge amount of pressure the most celebrated singer of the moment has to follow the album ‘21’ which won her six Grammy’s? She recently told Vogue magazine she is done being bitter and will not write another depressing break-up song. She also said she will take a break

More than a decade after her untimely death in 2001, Aaliyah’s producer Jeffrey Walker has announced on Twitter that ‘Steady Ground’, a single he produced with Aaliyah which just missed the cut of her ‘Aaliyah’ album will be featured on an upcoming fourth album. Although I’m interested to hear any unreleased Aaliyah material, I’m sure it will be a disappointment, as with the recent Amy Winehouse album release ‘Lioness’.

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

The Best Sounds in the House LOUNGE/CHILL OUT BASSIK GROOOVE – FEELS SO GOOD (VIBE BOUTIQUE RECORDS) His Facebook page reads “I’m Bassik Grooove, That’s with 3 O’s, but Facebook won’t let me use 3!” Which is true, his Facebook page only has two O’s. I know the feeling, Facebook won’t let me use DJ Mark Bambach. So I had to opt for Dj-Mark Bambach. Anyway, here we have “Feels So Good” from the Bassik Grooove EP, ‘Street Shifters’. This is exactly my kind of chill-out music, and perfect for my brunch sets at Grill at the Grand Hyatt Doha, every Friday from 12:30-4pm (How’s that for a cheeky advertising plug!!). It’s a fusion of 80’s electro, soul, jazz and funk with some pretty soothing vocal samples. Beautiful, summery chill out music – in fact check out the whole EP on traxsource.com.

SOULFUL HOUSE Frankie Knuckles presents ‘Director’s Cut’ featuring B Slade – ‘Get Over You’ (Nocturnal Groove) I had the utmost pleasure of meeting one of the pioneer’s of house music back in London in the mid-90’s. He stumbled into a record shop I was working at in Soho at the time. So of course, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to get an autographed record and photo with him. I also heard him spin at The Roxy in New York which absolutely blew me away. Frankie Knuckles single-handedly created the Term ‘garage’ as in garage house music which is a upbeat, soulful vocal-driven house track.

Garage was the name of the venue he DJ’d at the time when house music was breaking in the mid 1980’s. So people would go to record shops and ask for “that garage music Frankie was playing” and there was born a new genre of music. He most recently remixed the late Whitney Houston’s ‘Million Dollar Bill’ which still sends shivers down my spine. The man is a genius! Here he’s back collaborating with another legend Eric Kupper, under their guise ‘Director’s Cut’. ‘Get Over You’ is of course devastatingly good, pure old school garage house music with soaring vocals, funky guitars, and disco strings. My tune of the month!

COMMERCIAL CLUB SEBASTIAN INGROSSO & ALESSO Feat.

RYAN TEDDER – ‘CALLING (LOSE MY MIND)’ (Universal Records) One third of the phenomenon Swedish House Mafia, Sebastian Ingrosso teams up here with Swedish friend and DJ/Producer Alesso with vocal assistance from Grammy-award-winning singer, songwriter, producer and frontman of OneRepublic, Ryan Tedder, for the future hit ‘Calling (Lose My Mind)’. This has a similar and proven successful formula to that of the previous Swedish House Mafia hit ‘Save The World’ with a great vocal performance and big synth chords, it’s destined to be a massive radio and club hit, proving that the Swedish are continuing to clean up worldwide for crossover progressive commercial house. So prepare to hear this continuously in Doha clubs for at least the next three months, if not more.

HOUSE DAVID PENN Feat. LISA MILLETT– ‘JOIN US’ (DEFECTED RECORDS) One of Spain’s best know DJ/producers and personal favourite producer of mine, David Penn is back again with powerhouse voice and one of the top house songwriters and vocalists, Lisa Millett. Again Lisa delivers top vocals, and the production is funky yet minimal and typical Penn style, with a wicked piano-led breakdown. Pure house music here for the cooler clubs.

REMIX OF THE MONTH WHITNEY HOUSTON – ‘SO EMOTIONAL’ (eSQUIRE vs Offbeat) (White Label)

London’s DJ/producer eSQUIRE seizes the moment of the sad demise of Whitney Houston taking the a capella of the classic 1987 hit ‘So Emotional’ and remixed it in current commercial progressive house style. This has not been recognized by Arista as yet and is only available as a White Label/Bootleg, (you can take a listen on YouTube). Hopefully it will be picked up by the label soon, nontheless this is guaranteed to send any dance-floor into an absolute frenzy. Right on the money!

POP LADYHAWKE – ‘BLACK, WHITE & BLUE’ (ISLAND) I tried desperately to get a promotional copy of the forthcoming second album ‘Anxiety’ from New Zealand’s Ladyhawke from my friends at Island records UK to review this month. But alas, my pleas were wasted due to the destruction of illegal downloading. Even doing this review is not a powerful enough tool to risk for any record company handing over a promotional album. I, of course would have kept it under lock and key, but it only takes one person to leak a forthcoming album release on the net to potentially ruin the hype and sales of any artist. By the time this goes to press I will have purchased the album and I await with much anticipation. I absolutely loved her first self-titled 2009 album ‘Ladyhawke’ and played it to death and back for an entire year. Her first single from her second album titled ‘Black, White & Blue’ is trademark Ladyhawke, although her influences this time round are more rocky 70’s electro-pop, as opposed to the synth 80’s sound of her first album. It’s a great first single release and I can’t wait to get my hands on her second album ‘Anxiety’.

25

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

The Laughter Factory Returns!

ONE OF A KIND Frozen Spring

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Grand Hyatt Doha As the heat sets in keep your evenings cool at Dunes Lounge with their signature frozen drinks. QR 40 each. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1280 or email dunes.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Happy Hour at the Pearl Lounge Club

Mon 2nd – Mon 30th: Marriott Doha.

Unwind in one of the hotspots of Doha`s nightlife scene and enjoy a Happy 3 Hours every day from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Two for the price of one on selected drinks. For more information, call 4429-8444 or email pearlloungedoha@marriotthotels.com.

DJ Mark Bambach at Rocca

Thurs 5th, 6th, 12th, 19th, 20th, 26th: Grand Hyatt Doha. Spinning funky vocal house music to a swishy crowd. Dine on Mediterranean cuisine and sip cocktails at this sophisticated waterside venue.

DJ from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information, call 7719-2974 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com

DJ Bliss Big Friday Night

Fri 6th: W Doha. All the way from Dubai, Radio One official DJ, mixing the best in music with real flavour! From 11:00 p.m. till 2.30 a.m. For more information, call 4453- 5135 or BBM 26E78A27

Monthly Vino Club Meeting

Mon 9th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy a variety of cheese and canapés in conjunction with exclusive vino, provided

by QDC. Open to members of the vino club only. New members are welcome. QR 4,500 for couples and QR 2,500 for singles.

From 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Mon 9th and Tues 10th: Ramada Plaza.

‘You’re having a laugh!’ Well you will be as you get your dose of humour at Shehrazad.

Three of the best comics present over two hours club stand-up, direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings are nonsmoking events! Shows start at 8:00 p.m.

QR 120 per person including a drink.

For more information, call 4428-1555.

DJ Stephane Karl

Thurs 12th, 19th, 26th: W Doha.

From the hottest parties in St. Tropez, DJ Stephane Karl brings the best of electro house to Doha. From 11:00 p.m. till 2:30 a.m. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27

Art of Cocktail Making

Fri 13th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. The Habanos team will teach you some of the most exciting combinations including their signature Breath of Life cocktail. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. QR 225 per person.

For reservations, call 4484- 8000.

Rocca Unlimited

Sun 15th – Mon 30th: Grand Hyatt Doha.

All-you-can-eat-and-drink pizza, pasta, malts and vino. QR 200 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1272 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Monia Lamarche and Marius Baetica

Fri 20th – Mon 30th: Grand Hyatt Doha.

Dunes Lounge has the pleasure to welcome two great artists who will perform eclectic jazz and modern music. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. (except Sundays and Mondays).

For more information, call 4448-1280 or email dunes.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Coco Latte presents Hawaiian Tropic

Fri 27th: Grand Hyatt Doha. It’s all grass skirts and crazy shirts for Coco Latté’s Hawaiian- themed party around the turquoise swimming pools, complete with tropical cocktails and live percussion accompanying DJ Mark Bambach. Doors open 9:00 p.m. ladies free entry till 10:00 p.m. For more information, call 7719-2974 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Pub Quiz

Mon 30th: Ramada Plaza. Bring along your team of six to take part in Doha’s favourite Quiz Night at Shehrazad with host Andrew. No entry fee and great prizes to be won. Quiz starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4428-1555.

EVERY WEEK DJ Night with DJ Roger Choueiry

Sundays: La Cigale. Enjoy the best in music from across the globe with this DJ. Rock out on the floor and dedicate your favourite songs to your special one at Madison Piano Bar. Ladies joining the DJ will enjoy one welcome drink on the house.

From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable 7 days a week. For more information, call 4428-8665.

The Latino Night

Sundays: Rotana Oryx. The Jazz Club has become one of the most distinguished destinations in Doha for jazz lovers, already offering a diverse mix of music. Enjoy the live musical Latino Jazz experience.

Rock Star, Season 2!

Mondays: InterContinental Doha. Join resident band Big Mouth on stage to perform the songs of your choice. Free drinks for everyone who participates and prizes for the weekly and monthly winners, to be chosen by the band! For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.

27

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

Hip N’ Fly

Wednesdays: W Doha. Ladies Night

Maher El Basha, the New One-Man-Show

Mondays – Saturdays: La Cigale.

Enjoy live Arabic music in the eclectic mix of the chic, elegant, Madison Piano Bar, which is decked out in vibrant furnishings.

Cozy and stylish, it offers a wide range of finger food, sushi/sashimi and cigars complemented by a selection of fine beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.; live entertainment doesn’t start before 10:00pm. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable seven days a week. For more information, call 4428-8665.

Mashups with Paul Mendez, DJ Shadi and Suzee X

Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. The three resident DJs presents their unique mash-up sounds at Lava with free drinks for ladies from 8:00 p.m. till late. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Golf Simulator Challenge @ Champions Tuesdays: The West End at the

Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

Compete in the ‘Hole in One’ and ‘Nearest Pin’ competitions for a chance to win great prizes. Free entry to the challenge between 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

at Crystal, where all ladies get three complimentary drinks from 10:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.! Check-in at Crystal for a special flight with international DJs. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

Ladies Big Night Out

Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha.

Big Mouth will kick off the night in Paloma from 9:00 p.m., followed by DJ Shadi. DJ Paul Mendez will be in Lava from 10:00 p.m. The centre 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; ladies enter free of charge. Membership required. For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.

After Work MexicanStyle!

28

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Relax after work at The Lounge and benefit from the 50% discount on Tasting & Sharing Menu and selected drinks. 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com

Be Happy at Jazz Up

Daily: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Enjoy two

Shisha Under the Stars

Saturdays – Wednesdays: RitzCarlton Doha. Throughout the month of April enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Carlton Doha. Throughout the month of April enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000.

InterContinental Doha. Catch the games live on huge screens while enjoying special beverages. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Very Happy Hour at The Lounge

Habanos Happy Hour

Now’s your chance! This is the night to start, with cool tunes and a wide range of 80s and 90s hits. And that’s not all - three drinks for ladies on the house from 11:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM: 26E78A27.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays:

Doha City Center Hotel. Come and join the fun and stand a chance to win tickets for two to EURO 2012. Open every night from 5:00 pm till 2:00 am. For more information, call 4419-6100.

Doha. Dunes Lounge is the place to be after a long and exhausting day! Buy one drink and get one free plus 50% discount on all snacks, an unbeatable offer along with Avis and KC performing live Vegas-style. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. except Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information, call 4448-1280 or email dunes.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Wednesdays - Sundays: Grand Hyatt

Admiral’s Happy Hour

Champions League Football

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance

for the price of one plus 20% off the food menu every day from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 pm at Jazz Up bar, a new haven for jazz lovers in the heart of Doha. The perfect spot to chill out in the contemporary yet intimate surroundings while listening to smooth tunes and indulging in quality drinks and an extensive snacks menu with live entertainment on Wednesdays. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com

Retro-Electro

Tuesdays: W Doha. Wanna dance?

Road to Euro 2012 @ Champions!

Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-

DAILY Aqua Lounge By Night

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Unwind under the stars at Doha’s newest venue. It is ideal for al fresco dining, refreshing juices and specialty drinks. From 5:00 p.m. till late daily. For more information, call 4419-6100.

Daily: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy your

favorite Shisha under 1001 stars, in the newly opened Shisha Terrace. Choose from a wide variety of flavours while the Shisha specialists ensure that you have a full aromatic experience of this night-honoured ritual! From 3:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 65 per shisha; a la carte food and beverage menu available. For more information, call 4484-8000.

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

Irish Harp

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha. Enjoy live music with the famous Chavela Duo Band. This month try Spare Ribs Madness a la carte.

For more information, call 4485-4444.

DJ/VDJ Tony Schwery

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a lovely night out under the stars at the rooftop bar, Sky View. Dine under the stunning Doha skyline with the hotel’s scrumptious hors d’oeuvres and mouth-watering desserts whilst listening to the best songs mixed by Doha’s newest DJ to the scene. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable 7 days a week. For more information, call 4428-8204.

Afterwork Aperitivo

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 and cozy cabanas as only Wahm knows how.

From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5323.

Happy 3 Hours at Glo

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Avoid rush hour after work and come unwind with us at Glo before heading home. Enjoy the longest happy hour in town with selected beverages at QR 25 or your favourite cocktail from QR 35. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

Happy Times @ Champions

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Watch your favourite game or simply unwind with ice cold beverages and enjoy happy times at QR 5 on selected beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

WEEKEND Ultrachic

Pure Crystal

Thursdays: W Doha. Let the night take over as international DJs play the best in eclectic house music. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

DJ Roger Choueiry at 7

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 with one drink on the house! For more information, call 4428-8665 (Membership required).

Resident DJ YoungStar @ Wahm Thursdays and Fridays (plus Wednesdays and Saturdays):

W Doha. DJ YoungStar brings you the best chilled tunes. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

Reserve your cabana by calling 4453-5135.

Sparkling Fridays at The Lounge

Fridays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Ladies receive two complimentary glasses of bubbles. 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

For more information, call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha.

FIX with Suzee X

Doha’s most refined house music night with unique music from Steve KZ and Paul Mendez with regular guests DJs. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Suzee X plays only the latest house and techno all night long. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. DJ

Carnival Party

Fridays: W Doha. Enjoy a carnival party at Crystal with the DJ’s special twist, 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 or BBM 26E78A27.

Salsa & Candela

Fridays: Sharq Village & Spa. Latin sounds set the scene for a lively evening.

QR 85 per person inclusive of a welcome drink. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, call 4425-6666.

Arabesque

Saturdays: W Doha. Pure Arabian magic! All the latest Arabic tunes. East meets West with DJ Imran spinning the latest commercial tunes. For more information, call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

Six Nations Rugby Saturdays and Sundays:

InterContinental Doha. Join fellow fanatics as the games kick off! Early opening for every game, with special drinks throughout the matches. For more information, call 4484-4444.

Sip & Savour

Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha. Sip one, 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 4453-5363.

29

Qatar’s Premier Wedding Exhibition and Fashion Show returns to Doha.

Diamond Sponsor

Hair & Nail Sponsor

Glamorous bridal fashions and new innovations in wedding services and products will be displayed at the highlyregarded 5th edition of the Qatar International Wedding Exhibition and Fashion Show (iWED) from 4-7 April 2012.

The much-anticipated iWED 2012, aimed at brides, grooms-to-be and their families, is the premier wedding show of the region with more than 100 international and regional wedding specialist exhibitors. iWED 2012 will be covering all requirements for the perfect wedding: from flowers and cakes, to haute couture wedding fashion and finding the ultimate venue for your wedding.

Thursday is a Ladies Day Only.

COME & VISIT US!

Catwalk Sponsor Wedding Principal Sponsor

Support Sponsor

Annual Partner

Media Partners

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

ARTS & CULTURE

12th VCUQatar Annual Fashion Show

Art Exhibition ‘Light the Scene’ Tues 3rd – Sat 28th: Al Markhiya

Gallery. Artists: Aula Al-Ayoubi and Sinan Hussein. Saturdays -Thursdays 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., Fridays 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., or by appointment. Free admission. For more information call Heather Alnuweiri on 6600-8750.

Thurs 19th: The Gallery at VCUQatar.

VCUQatar’s Annual Fashion Show is both a formative and culminating element of the Fashion Design program, launching students from student life into successful careers.

This celebration of fashion brings together spectators, friends and fashion enthusiasts from the region, not only to judge and/or admire the collections of the students, but also for the unique atmosphere of this grand defilé. Open to the public. Starts at 8:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu

Kitajenko Conducts Tchaikovsky’s Fifth

Sat 14th: Opera House, Katara

Cultural Practices of Mapping: Another Look

Tues 17th: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. This unique discussion will take place in the galleries of the exhibition “Cai Guo-Qiang: Saraab”, using historical and contemporary practices of mapping as a way to understand artworks on view at Mathaf.

Price: Free. English, with simultaneous translation available. Starts at 6:00 p.m.

RSVP necessary. For more information, email mathaf_education@qma.org.qa

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Dmitri Kitajenko, conductor, Wolfgang Bauer, trumpet, Mozart: Linz Symphony No.36 in C major, K.425, Haydn: Concerto in E-flat major for Trumpet, Hob. VIIe:1 Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E Minor, Op.64. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Telling Tales: Narrative Discourse and Mina’i Pottery Wed 18th: Museum of Islamic Art, Education Centre - 2nd floor classroom.

Dr. Leslee Katrina Michelsen - Curator of Ceramics, Museum of Islamic Art. Starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.mia.org.qa

35

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Qatar Discovery: Qatar Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

By Christina Maria Paschyn Photography Jessie Palanca with additional images courtesy of Firefly Pictures

A new travelogue-style film from Qatari production house Firefly Pictures sheds a whole new light on the majesty and beauty of Qatar and its urban and natural landscapes. Since its premiere in February the film has been making waves in the region. QH sat down with the man behind the lens to review the film and find out how this vision of Qatar was brought to life on the big screen.

I

t’s a nightmare many expatriates have experienced in Doha: you’re sitting at the airport waiting for your flight to board, when you suddenly realize you forgot to pick up a souvenir for your folks.

As you dash around Qatar Duty Free, you wonder what will please them the most, a miniature camel or a thobe-wearing figurine. But what you really want to buy is a gift that will leave your family reeling from the magnificence of the tiny exotic peninsula you’ve chosen to call your new home. And that’s when it hits you – there is absolutely nothing you can buy that will do Qatar justice.

That’s what happened to French filmmaker Johan Madarasz when he first visited Qatar. “I tried to find a DVD to bring something about Qatar but I found nothing. There was only one DVD that was really bad, and the big issue is that in France, and I think in England and everywhere, we have documentaries about Qatar on TV and it’s always the same documentary, with the voiceover that says Qatar gas and petrol,” he said.

“The question was, if I want to bring something to my mother, she’s not going to sit down and watch a documentary about Qatar during one hour.”

Now she won’t have to. In February, Firefly Pictures, a division of 36

Doha-based Firefly Communications, launched “Qatar Discovery,” an aesthetically breathtaking 70-minute film that explores the grandeur of the country sans narration.

“We decided to try to find a way to show Qatar differently,” Madarasz explained, who co-produced the film with Qatari entrepreneur and Firefly Communications owner Mohamed Jaidah. Directed

by Julien Le Goff, “Qatar Discovery” takes viewers on a tour through Qatar’s desert and urban landscapes using only an original music score recorded in collaboration with EMI publishing.

“It’s the best way to show Qatar to people. You make dinner, you put it in the background and it’s perfect.

Because you don’t have to sit down with everybody and say ‘watch, watch, watch.’

You sit down and sometimes they’re going to say, ‘It’s in Qatar, really? This green thing or in the desert when you have the cars on the dunes?’ and you’re

going to start talking and it’s going to be good. It’s like a social video.”

The film is divided into four main chapters and it covers an array of Qatari life, from dune bashing and camel racing to the country’s mangrove swamps and

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE archaeological sites in the north. A whole section is devoted to modern Doha, which was superlatively shot by the film’s fourman crew with a single state-of-the-art RED One camera, a device that Madarasz said “delivers the highest resolution on the market” and has been used by Hollywood on films such as the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise.

But unlike Hollywood productions, “Qatar Discovery” stays true to reality.

“The process of the video was a long time.

We went with the camera and we [shot] what we found. So we’re not cheating at all with this DVD, it’s really Qatar. We don’t take an actor to do this or to do that. It’s all real people,” Madarasz explained. “We went everywhere. Sometimes there is no road, we say ‘OK, we go straight and we’re going to see what happens.’”

Along the way, Madarasz fell in love with Qatar and its people. “I love this country, and I was really surprised for the shooting because we went everywhere. Sometimes we go in a farm, we go inside many places, and people are really friendly, really,” he said. “If we go to Al-Shahaniya the camel town, even if you are a tourist you can go inside the farm, and they take you and they are going to want you to drink camel milk, come in the tent, take your tea, sit down, and if you want to stay the night, you can stay the night. They are really friendly, really.”

Madarasz and his partners never appear on camera but they don’t need to. Their adoration for Qatar is evident in the film’s exquisite compositions and meticulous editing. It certainly achieves its aim of turning the “screen into a true work of art, a window into the wonders of Qatar.”

Courtesy of Firefly Pictures But that is also this reporter’s criticism.

The film only focuses on beauty. Missing are shots of the country’s grittier aspects, such as the sand storms that frequently envelope the capital (shown only very briefly during the end credits). The film also focuses almost too heavily on scenery and seems to glide over the country’s heart and soul: its people, both expats and Qataris.

The film starts off strong with evocative Arabian melodies, but it later tries too hard to emphasize the country’s cosmopolitan side with new renditions of famous pop songs from the 1950s and ‘60s, recorded specially for the DVD. Although Qatar has voraciously embraced some aspects of Western

modernity, and the film seamlessly intertwines the country’s ancient traditions and neoteric facades, the music threatens to disrupt the film’s visual harmony. Cover songs such as “You Can’t Hurry Love” seem out of place and, frankly, bizarre when played over shots of Qatar’s barren desert interior.

Madarasz said the team chose to include several love songs in English “because there are many love songs in Arabic music. So we tried to keep it this way to get this kind of way of love and everything.” As for the cover songs, he thinks they will help viewers to “chill out and lounge” as they watch the film, and since contemporary recordings of old hits are extremely popular in France, he hopes the DVD will expand music awareness among Qataris.

The film may have incongruous elements; nevertheless, it is a worthwhile purchase at 90 riyals. Residents may watch it wanting more, but you can rest assured that your mother will be stunned.

‘Qatar Discovery’ is available at Virgin Megastores, Lulu Hypermarket and Qatar Duty Free in the Doha International Airport.

A 20-minute version of the film will soon be shown on Qatar Airways flights.

37

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

He’s Got Rhythm

By Victoria Scott

Ng Kee Guan – Kee to his friends – has had a long journey to reach Qatar, pursuing his passion for classical music against all odds to perform co-principal timpani in the percussion section of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

O

ne of the first things Kee tells me is that he’s the only Chinese member of the Qatar Philharmonic. I can tell it’s a matter of pride to the Malaysian national, born to Chinese parents in Penang. I ask him how his love of classical music began, given his lack of exposure to it as he was growing up. “Oh, I started the piano when I was five,” he tells me. “In Malaysia, parents often feel that if they teach their kids a Western instrument, somehow Western attitudes will rub off on them and improve their chances.”

It certainly seemed to work for Kee. Fired up by his love for piano, he joined the school marching band and orchestra, this time playing percussion – completely selftaught. Later, he played piano and guitar for three rock bands at school. Unfortunately, the rest of the school curriculum did not go so smoothly. “After high school I went

38

to a business college. I really still have no idea what the course was!” laughs Kee. “I hated it. I did it for three months and then left. My parents were so angry.

They were so disappointed.”

Kee didn’t give up on his dream of a musical career, however. Instead, he took the bus 350 kilometres every week to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, to continue his percussion studies. He also became an apprentice at the Malaysia Philharmonic, and began looking for opportunities to study abroad. “I actually got places at colleges in Melbourne, London and Hong Kong, but it was too expensive, I couldn’t go,” he tells me. “My parents only had a small income and couldn’t help me with my fees. I was stuck.”

But in 2001, a friend who worked for the Malaysian Philharmonic held a Brass and Percussion workshop and invited Kee

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Kee is seated back row on the right along. This friend had studied in Germany, and had invited one of his former tutors to take the workshop. It was Kee’s lucky break. “The tutor said that I should be given the chance to go to Germany and study. And so my friend gave me the money for the plane ticket.”

Kee flew to Munich on a three-month tourist visa and spent that time preparing for auditions. His friend also found him a free place to stay with a family he knew.

His friend’s enormous generosity was repaid when Kee gained a place to study in Munich. Kee was to stay in Germany for seven years, eventually moving to Rostock where he completed an undergraduate degree and then a Masters.

Despite his success at music college, Kee knew an orchestral job was far from guaranteed. “I sometimes thought I’d made the wrong choice” he says.

“In Germany there are so many music students and only five percent of students ever get an orchestral job. I didn’t get a job after my first degree, so I continued studying. I knew that if I didn’t get a job after the Masters I’d have to go back home and it’s so hard to be a classical musician in Malaysia. So I was overjoyed to get the post with the Qatar Philharmonic. I came directly from Germany to Doha.”

Kee has been in Qatar since the QPO’s beginning over three years ago. He

loves it. “Qatar is great for me,” he tells me with a smile. “I endured seven cold winters in Germany. I live better without snow. In Malaysia we have only summer!

And Malaysia is an Islamic country as well, so I grew up listening to the call to prayer and eating Halal food, so Qatar is sort of a home [away] from home for me.”

Kee tells me he’s really enjoyed getting to know Arabic percussion instruments while he’s been with the QPO. “I’ve been taking lessons from a Syrian teacher at the Qatar Music Academy” he says. “I’ve learned to play the tabla (drums) and riq (Arab tambourine.) It’s an interesting challenge.

The percussion section usually has much more to do than for a classical piece.

For Arab music, we sometimes play ten instruments in one concert.”

I tell Kee that I’ve always wondered how often percussionists make mistakes, because due to the nature of the instruments they play, their mistakes are likely to be very obvious. Kee grins: “Oh yes, we make mistakes” he tells me.

“The biggest mistake I’ve ever made was when I was in Japan touring with the International Youth Orchestra in 1996. We were playing Stravinsky’s ‘Rite of Spring’.

It was a live concert and a CD recording was being made of it. I was playing the big tam-tam (a kind of gong.) At one point the entire orchestra was supposed to be silent, but I hit one more note that the other musicians. And I just couldn’t stop

the tam-tam once I’d hit it. The conductor was furious.” I can tell that Kee is cringing inwardly at the memory. “I think the CD recording is still on sale”, he tells me.

“They didn’t even edit out the mistake.

I’ve only listened to it once - and I never want to hear it again. I’ll never forget it.

I’ve just realized I haven’t spoken about that since it happened!”

I ask Kee what piece of music he most likes to perform. “There are lots, but Brahms’ ‘4th Symphony’ stands out for me. I’ve performed it about 20 times and I still love it. It’s unusual to have that feeling after so many performances, so that’s why it’s my favourite.”

I ask Kee what his ultimate ambition is.

“Well, my ambition was always to get an orchestral job. And now I’ve done it, so I need a new plan! I think the next thing for me will be to get married, and have a family. But career-wise, I feel fulfilled here.”

INFORMATION ON QPO QPO tickets can be purchased at Virgin Megastores in Villaggio and Landmark malls and directly at the Opera House in Katara.

To order online visit: www.virginmegastore.me

39

ARTS & CULTURE

Culture at

Katara Katara Cultural Village is the cultural hub of Qatar and this month it brings some of the best art exhibitions to Doha.

Here’s a lineup of what you can enjoy throughout the month of April.

Faraj Daham Exhibition – Street Language 15 Mar - 28 Apr 2012 07:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Katara Art Center, Bldg 5 Free Admission Edge of Arabia 8 Mar - 8 Apr 2012 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Katara Gallery - Bldg 19 Free Admission “Few will have the greatness to bend history; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.” -Robert F. Kennedy.

EOA Projects in partnership with the Katara Galleries, Doha, presents four Saudi artists, whose work expresses the hopes and fears of a new generation in an era of great turmoil and transformation: Ahmed Mater, Abdulnasser Gharem, Saeed Salem, Sara Al-Abdali.

Louise Bourgeois 20 Jan - 1 Jun 2012 12:00 a.m. - 11:59 p.m.

Building 10 Free Admission Louise Bourgeois (1911 – 2010) is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. ‘Conscious and Unconscious’

40

is the first in-depth study of her work to be exhibited in the Middle East and showcases 32 pieces spanning sculptures, installation works, gouaches, and fabric pieces dating from 1947 to 2009.

In a body of work dominated by dualities and polarities – active and passive, male and female, figurative and abstract, geometric and organic, mother and father, murder and suicide – these individual pieces represent both different psychological states and the conscious form giving way to unconscious impulses, wishes, and fears.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream 31 Mar - 2 Apr 2012 06:00:pm - 08:00:pm Katara Drama Theatre - Bldg 16 Buy Tickets

‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ is one of Shakespeare’s most magical and enchanting plays designed especially for young people.

With its cast of mortals, mechanicals and fairies, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ is packed with dazzling poetry and sparkling comedy.

Joseph Calleja & Nataliya Kovalova 7 Apr - 7 Apr 2012 07:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Katara Opera House – Building 16 Buy Tickets Katara presents Joseph Calleja & Nataliya Kovalova in concert with QPO on the 7th of April 2012 at the Opera House.

Joseph Calleja Nataliya Kovalova, soprano Gareth Jones, conductor Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra

ARTS & CULTURE LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND Beaded Prayers Project Exhibition

Sun 1st – Thurs 19th: The Gallery at VCUQatar. The Beaded Prayers project was launched in 1998 as an international collaborative project to celebrate diversity and unity through a participatory art form. The project comprises a lecture that discusses the history, concept and influences of the project; a workshop in which participants contribute to the project; and a travelling exhibit that displays the accumulation of the pieces created. The exhibition is curated by Sonya Clark, chair of the Craft/Material Studies Department at VCU School of the Arts in Richmond, Virginia, who is also the project director. Open to the public. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu

Rhys Himsworth- A Solo Show of New Work

Tues 3rd – Tues 24th: Saffron Hall at VCUQatar. Rhys Himsworth, director of Painting and Printmaking at VCUQatar, presents his first solo show in the Middle East. Himsworth’s paintings, prints, photographs and multimedia installations are an attempt to discuss the wider societal and cultural outcomes of an increased use of technology. Working across a range of media, he mixes natural elements with the machine-made to create hybrids that have a dialogue between the new and the obsolete, the automated and the intuitive and the organic and systematic. The exhibition comprises of several new works as well as works exhibited previously in the United States and Europe. Open to the public. Starts at.

6:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu

Chamber Music Series: Around the Arab World in 80 Minutes

Wed 4th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Maias Alyamani, violin, Islam Nour Eldin ElHefnawy, viola, Hosam Hagag, bass, George Oro, percussion, Rami Tarraf, percussion.

Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Beethoven’s Violin Concerto

Thurs 5th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Michalis Economou, music director, Kristof Barati, violin, Hassan El-Molla, rababa, Beethoven: Overture to Coriolan, Op.62, Beethoven: Concerto in D major for violin and orchestra, Op.61, Khalifé: Rababa Concerto, Wagner: Tannhäuser Overture.

Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Chamber Music Series

Wed 11th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Bekirova, violin. Starts at 7:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Chamber Music Series

Wed 18th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Sonja Park, piano. Starts at 7:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Stravinsky’s Firebird

Sat 21st: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Michalis Economou, music director, Anneleen Lenaerts, harp, Dionysis Grammenos, clarinet, Verdi: Overture to La Forza del Destino, Economou: Concerto for Clarinet, Harp and Orchestra, Naama: Alnaham Voice, Stravinsky: Suite from The Firebird. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Chamber Music Series: Schubert Octet

Wed 25th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Pavlo Dovhan, violin, Ines Wein, viola, Radovan He, double bass, Claire Glago, oboe, Rony Moser, clarinet, Rossini: Duo for Cello and Double Bass in D MajorProkofiev: Quintet for Oboe, Clarinet, Violin, Viola and Double Bass in G Minor, Op. 39, Schubert: Octet in F Major, D. 803.

Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

Haydn’s London Symphony

Sat 28th: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

Michalis Economou, music director, Melissa Coleman, cello, Haydn: London Symphony No. 104 in D major, Herbert: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra No. 1 Timeless, Debussy: Prélude À L’Après midi d’un Faune (Afternoon of a Faun) Antoniou: KOMMOS B (Lament for Orchestra), Wagner: Overture to Rienzi, WWV 49. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

EVERY WEEK Mathaf Voices Tours

Saturdays: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. Join Mathaf Voices interns for special tours of exhibitions, held in English and Arabic. 12:00 p.m and 4:00 p.m. Price: Free. Tours are first-come, first-serve.

Please arrive early to ensure space.

For more information, email mathaf_education@qma.org.qa

DAILY Visual & Studio Arts

Daily: IAID. The visual and studio arts program is a progressive course from Beginners, Advance, Fine Arts 1 and 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 43

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

COMMUNITY

French Conversation Workshop

Thursdays and Saturdays: Institut

Doha Mums Book Club

Tues 24th: Caribou Coffee House, Salwa Rd. A lively discussion on April’s book club picks; ‘Goodnight Beautiful’ by Dorothy Koomson and ‘Judge and Jury’ by James Patterson. From 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com

Français French School. Improve your comprehension of the spoken language and gain confidence in speaking French.

The workshop is held by the journalist from Oryx FM, the French speaking radio in Doha. Thursdays 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4493-0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com

Toy Swap Event Sat 28th: Al Faisaliya compound Al Waab. Bring ‘outgrown’ toys and swap them for new ones. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email: events@dohamums.com

Expectant & New Mums Coffee

Thursdays: Various. Join other new moms and moms-to-be to talk all things baby! Doha Mums hosts a coffee meet from 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.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

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Drawing And Painting Workshops

Mondays: Institut Français French School. Explore the techniques to draw accurately, get the skills to use tones, textures and colours. The course is in French, the instructor also speaks English. 8:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 4493-0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com

45

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

The Dean’s List

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

Everette E. Dennis is one of the most well-respected names in the field of mass communications. His long and vibrant career analyzing global media and its current trends shaping society and international relations has led him here to Qatar as the new Dean of Northwestern University in Education City. QH sat down with the esteemed scholar, author and lecturer to talk about the development and growth of media in Qatar.

46

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY QH: When you accepted the position of Dean at Northwestern here in Doha, what vision did you have for the university and its growth here in Qatar?

Everette E. Dennis: Well, first I thought it was a place where the university-and I-could make a difference.

The vision is really of a world-class media school that will prepare the talent bench for the media industry and the communications field for this country, the Middle East and elsewhere in the world.

We also have an idea of a school that will be a kind of sentinel for the region – be observant of what’s happening here, be an observer of the region and understand the nature of what media should be here and how it can develop and grow.

We think it’s a wonderful laboratory for our students and our school; we want to have a place that gives high-calibre instruction, we want to be able to do relevant and important research and we want to be engaged in thought leadership so we can promote the ideas and ideals of freedom of expression and independent media and those are linchpins in the growth and development of societies and we think we play a role here and help contribute to what’s already going on.

So a lot of the work we do is trying to connect with the media industries in Qatar and the region so that we can better understand what they’re doing and make sure we’re preparing people properly.

So I spend a lot of time out talking to leaders of the business community here, as well as government and charitable organizations. I might go to Dubai or Abu Dhabi or elsewhere in the region and make comparisons. It’s a very exciting place to be.

QH: You have a prominent background in mass communications; was it challenging for you to make the shift to this region of the globe where what those in the Western hemisphere consider a ‘free press’ may not always be the norm? Does Qatar differ from other Gulf countries in this respect?

Everette E. Dennis: Freedom of the press is always a relative thing. It lives somewhere between complete control on the one hand and complete freedom on the other, it’s never absolute anywhere. So freedom of the press is in play and I think in the Middle East there’s been less of a tradition than say Western Europe, but [it’s] coming forward. I think also the role of Al Jazeera and of satellite television and a robust communications industry now – magazines, newspapers and digital media is really pushing the whole development of free expression and independent media. It’s never perfect anywhere, but I see real promise here and I see really exciting things happening.

QH: To touch a bit on social media, we saw how the Arab Spring that just took place across the region, was being coined the ‘Twitter revolution’. Would you say in a country that’s developing as rapidly as Qatar, social media is being used here in the same way as an agent of social change and dialogue as it has in other regions of the Middle East?

Everette E. Dennis: Oh, I think so.

Social media is very active here; it ranges from a consumer social media where people look for changes in consumer products or consumer services – telephone services for example. It’s also connecting people together through Facebook and Twitter and is important in terms of communicating and it’s of course linked people here with people not only everywhere else in the world but specifically in the Middle East.

Social media for our students is potentially a new and growing industry really, we’ve always thought of communications as being publishing and broadcasting and online media but social media and search media

go way beyond that in their capacity for interactivity and addressability – it’s just phenomenal and these are industries and enterprises that can grow up very quickly.

Anybody with a good idea and some resources can develop a communications company of some kind and we hope that our students will do that. They’re already doing websites and useful enterprises and eventually that could be a career.

QH: There are strong examples of investigative creativity here at Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism. The Sweet Epidemic website on the following pages is an example of that level of accomplishment. What’s the best advice you’ve learned over the years to offer a student wanting to make a difference in their community through story-telling and critical journalism?

Everette E. Dennis: The best thing is to learn to write well; learn to write and think and express yourself and sometimes express yourself in visual forms too and know the subject you’re writing about. Know as much about the world as you can and be a specialist in a subject matter or a specialist in knowing how to talk to people. I think the most successful communicators are those people who engage in social interaction a lot and get to know people and understand them and empathize with them. That’s a big part of it – a sense of understanding; I think that’s huge when it comes to functioning well in the field. But being literate, being able to write, think and being responsive to criticism and feedback is important.

ABOUT EVERETTE E. DENNIS Everette E. Dennis was the Felix E. Larkin Distinguished Professor and Chairperson of Communication and Media Management at Fordham University School of Business prior to his arrival in Qatar as Dean at Northwestern. He is also the director of the International Longevity Center-USA in New York, the founding President of the American Academy in Berlin and is a trustee at the International Institute of Communications and International Center for Journalists. Mr. Dennis holds fellowships from Harvard Law School and Harvard’s Institute of Politics and has lent his talents as an author and co-author to over 45 books examining global media.

47

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

Unwrapping A Sweet Epidemic

By Ashlee Starratt Photos courtesy of Muneera Al-Buainain and Caitlin Sewell

A new student-driven community website sheds light on the diabetes crisis in Qatar. QH talked to one of its creators to find out more about the human face of this life-changing disease.

I

t’s a disease that is both debilitating and in some cases preventable; but once you have it, it has you for life.

Qatar has the highest rates of obesity and obesity-related diabetes in the Gulf region with a staggering 75 percent of Qataris who are overweight and a further 40 percent who fall into the morbidly obese category.

These are statistics gathered from the National Health Strategy and compiled on a new website called Sweet Epidemic, a project spear-headed by fourth-year journalism students from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University here in Doha. Using every medium available to them to spread the message about what is truly an epidemic in this country the website incorporates social media, photography, audio-visual and print to educate the public in an effort to reverse this alarming trend.

48

“Diabetes is non-communicable disease that is very prevalent among people in Qatari society,” says journalism student Muneera Al-Buainain.

“Not many people are aware of the fact that diabetes can put a person’s life at risk. So, what Northwestern University in Qatar did was they asked the [class of 2013] journalism students to report on diabetes and obesity in Qatar by devoting an intensive five-week course collecting data and information, interviewing doctors, parents and patients with diabetes and those who are obese to allow them to share their stories with us.

It was our job as journalists to deliver their messages to the world. “ There are two variations of diabetes that can afflict the population; Type 1 is an autoimmune form of the disease and those who live with it have usually developed it at a young age or before

they turn 25. That is why it is also known as juvenile diabetes. In this form of the disease, insulin, a hormone produced within the pancreas, isn’t manufactured in enough supply for the body to break down blood glucose (or sugar) into energy cells that help fuel us.

People with Type 1 diabetes can pass the deficiency down through their families as the result of genetics and are insulin-dependent for the rest of their lives, injecting themselves several times a day. Normal blood sugar levels

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY should be between 70 and 140 milligrams per decilitre according to information gathered on the Sweet Epidemic website.

Muneera says she was shocked to learn that 27-30% of children in Qatar suffer from Type 1 diabetes.

“My partner, Caitlin Sewell, and I were focusing on diabetes among Qatari children and we were amazed at the fact that even infants can be born with diabetes as well,” she says. “We interviewed a Qatari woman at Hamad Hospital in the pediatric endocrinology clinic and her four-year old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was a year and a half old. The girl was so brave and calm when her mother injected her with the insulin treatment. The mother said, ‘Oh, she’s used to it, we’ve been doing it for three years.’”

Of the percentage of children in the country suffering from Type 1 official figures indicate that 120 of them take daily insulin injections while another 100 are hooked up to an insulin pump that provides a constant dosage of the hormone into the bloodstream, Muneera tells QH. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease and also the most preventable. It’s estimated that 90% of people newly diagnosed will have this adult-onset variation resulting directly from obesity, sedentary lifestyles and a diet high in sugar and carbohydrate. In this case insulin production levels in the body decrease or the cells become resistant to the hormone due to the amount of sugar consumed. The onset of Type 2 diabetes is gradual and can be prevented through healthy lifestyle changes that include diet and regular exercise.

Muneera says the public response to the information and stories on the website has been encouraging. “I think that more and more people are visiting the site as [other] newspapers and some websites have been reporting on it to tell the world

about our project,” she says. “The website is mainly focused on diabetes and obesity in Qatar and as a Qatari national, most of us have family members or friends who have diabetes and I think it’s a great access for people in Qatar to visit the site since it’s dedicated to a particular disease that is very prevalent in the country. [People] can learn more about it and see how to help themselves and the people around them to cope with the disease or even prevent themselves from getting it.”

With 3,000 unique user hits to date that number will keep rising as word spreads to stop the spread, so to speak. When asked what has been the most rewarding part of the Sweet Epidemic journey, Muneera is quick to respond with accolades for her teammates.

“The entire class worked on the project as a team,” she says. “We were divided into groups so we had website producers, data and graphics producers, writers, photographers, video producers and our professor Christina Paschyn was our editor.

The most rewarding part of our project was witnessing the day of its launch. It made me feel so happy and honoured to be part of the Sweet Epidemic team for accomplishing such a great website on a disease that affects many people in my community and we hope that through our website we can make a change.”

If you or some you know are affected by diabetes visit www.qatarsweetepidemic. org for a wealth of home-grown stories, statistics and information to educate yourself about the many faces of a disease that’s slowly robbing Qataris of their health and quality of life. Through skilled research, documentation and awareness, the Sweet Epidemic website is a strong catalyst towards changing that trend – a step in the right direction that really is sweet.

49

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

I LOVE QATAR

By Khalifa Saleh Haroon

As Qatar celebrates 40 years of positive trade and cultural relations with Japan, I Love Qatar examines how connected the two nations really are. nations are also amazingly giving. Both Qatar and Japan have always been supportive of other countries when they were in great need. Go ahead, Google it; just type in ‘Qatar donates’ or ‘Japan helps’ and check out the results.

Qatar and Japan are celebrating 40 years of friendship this year and there’s a lot of celebration going on. Qatar is doing a lot of events in Japan and Japan is doing just the same in Qatar.

(By the way, if you haven’t checked out Takashi Murakami’s ‘Ego’ exhibition at the Museum of Islamic Art annex, then you’re missing out!).

Japan is a country that I think Qatar has a lot to learn from and I could go as far as saying that I admire the country. Just as people sometimes compare Dubai to Las Vegas, I’d like people to compare Doha to Tokyo. As far out there as it may seem there are a great number of similarities between the two. Japan has a great, rich culture and has managed to rebrand itself on the world stage. Qatar is at the point where we’re trying to rebrand ourselves as well, shaping our identity.

When it comes to culture and taking the leap forward to modernity, Japan did that, and that’s what Qatar is trying to do. It’s not easy ensuring that you keep your heritage alive in a rapidly developing society. The two

50

I admire Japanese people’s work ethic, how they strive for perfection, their focus, their incredible talent, and of course, how welcome they make foreigners feel. I want that. I want Qatar to be just like that.

Having said all this, last month marked the first anniversary of the tsunami and earthquake that hit Japan on March 11, 2011. Just watching the videos of how people remember the day was very difficult for me. One particular quote I read that hurt my heart was from a 82-year old man who remembered the day the tsunami struck, recalling that he would never be able to see his wife again as she was swept away into the sea – I cannot imagine such pain.

I Love Qatar helped out by supporting a special event at Katara called ‘Aftermath – The Earthquake’. It was put together by people from the Japanese community and was a visual tour by a person known as Chonmage.

We even had the president of Katara and the Japanese ambassador visit.

To lighten people’s spirits at the time and to encourage people to donate to Japan we sold t-shirts with the words ‘Love, Happiness, Bravery, and Courage’ in Japanese and Arabic. They were sold at different malls and it was

a great experience. “Show support to the country that gave us anime, sushi, robots and Land Cruisers”, I had posted on the community forums on iloveqatar.net. Take a look at the Japanese Embassy’s website at www.qa.emb-japan.go.jp to see how many different schools and institutions rallied to show that Qatar loves Japan.

If you’re interested in being part of the Japanese Society Qatar (JaSoQa) please find them on Facebook and join the community page.

What I am incredibly proud of is that Qatar is one of, if not the biggest donors to Japan. Mr. Monji, the Japanese ambassador shows his appreciation to Qatar at every single public event here in Doha. So far he’s brought quite a number of events to the country including a Judo demonstration

by Japan’s gold medalist, a Taiko drum performance at Katara (which he says is the best cultural act he’s ever brought to Qatar), and of course the talented Gamarjobat silent comedy group to Souq Waqif. There’s loads more information about what’s to come at www.qatarjapan2012.com Let’s hope for a bright future for both countries.

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

Round-Up To

Relaxation

By Alex Corey

Winter is coming to an end and it’s time to start soaking up some sunshine! Looking for that perfect place to relax and unwind? How about places to enjoy a refreshing drink poolside? Well, look no further! QH offers up the best places in and around Doha to head to the beach or pool.

Four Seasons The Four Seasons is nestled in West Bay with a beachfront offering great views of the city. More importantly they are launching their new Pool Grill only footsteps away from the beach. So while you are maxing out, chilling and relaxing all cool by the pool, South American inspired snacks and beverages are only a stone’s throw away! Available every Thursday and Friday from 6pm until 11pm, it is the perfect time and place to quickly make the change from work mode to weekend mode.

Cost: QR 295 Sun–Wed Contact: 4494-8888

Grand Hyatt Located on the shoreline of the Gulf, the Grand Hyatt sports 400 metres of private beach. Located in the newly developed West Bay Lagoon area, it’s close, but not too close to the epicentre of town. In addition to the beach, there’s also three pools where you can cool off during the warmer months ahead. The beach and pools are surrounded by calming gardens that are beautifully landscaped. For an extra QR 100 you can use the indoor facilities which include a 25-metre lap pool, steam room, sauna and a jacuzzi.

Yes please! A beauty of a way to spend the afternoon!

Cost: QR 150 (QR 250 for indoor as well) Contact: 4448-1234

52

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

Marriott Located by the airport, the Marriott is just a short drive along to the Corniche. Not only that, but for the month of April, the cost of entry to the luxurious pool and beach is only QR 175 for adults and QR 100 for children over four (under four is complimentary).

The pool and beach is open from 6am until 11pm and has poolside food and beverage service (and a jacuzzi!). The beach is not as big as the others, but offers a nice quiet experience to sit back and relax. It has a sweet view of the Doha skyline and there is a focus on safety and service as the pool and beach attendants are trained in first aid, are excellent swimmers and strive to meet the needs of all.

Cost (after April): Weekdays: QR 150 Weekends: QR 175 Contact: 4429-8520

Ritz-Carlton So maybe you enjoy the water and sunshine, but not getting all sandy. Where should you go then? Well, The Ritz is offering a plethora of poolside activities. Feeling like a delicious nibble while basking in the rays? Well, Flamingos has just revamped their menu! Enjoy poolside beverages and a selection of seafood, chicken and Asian specialties to share. Not only that, but the poolside cabana is re-opening this month offering a variety of poolside massage options. Hello relaxation! Want something a little more active? How about some Tai Chi or yoga?

Or, take the kids on a nature discovery program while enjoying some detoxifying drinks over a candlelit poolside dinner? All of the above will be available during the month of April (5:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.)

Cost: Weekdays QR 150 Weekends QR 250 Contact: 4484-8173 Inland Sea And for a very special beach trip try the Inland Sea. Maybe you’re more of the adventurous type, wanting to get away from the city to a simpler place for a few hours? Well, I will share my secret with you (okay, it isn’t much of a secret) – the inland sea. It can get busy on weekends, but heading down on Friday morning is a breeze. Head to Mesaieed and follow the signs to Sealine Beach Resort; when you reach the desert and the road ends – just keep driving! A reliable 4x4 is required, as well as lots of fuel, water and snacks (portable BBQ anyone?), but is well worth the drive. Even with Land Cruisers driving by, it feels like you have your own little piece of beachfront property.

Rumours say that there are only two places in the world where sand dunes run into water and the inland sea is one of them.

Makes for great camping, swimming and all around great time!

Cost: Fuel, liquids (roughly QR 350 per person if you go with a company)

53

COMMUNITY

•Mr.Shabrawi Khater (extreme right ) •Mr. Khalifa Salman al Mohannadi (second from right)• Hamad Al Kuw •Mohammad Al Hammadi (fourth from ari (third from the right) the right) •Abdullah Al Kuwari (extr eme left)

Shop ‘Til You Drop The very first event of its kind to land in Doha, the Barwa Shopping Festival makes its début.

W

hether you spend a little or a lot, the Barwa Shopping Festival has something for everyone. Organized by Network Advertising & Events, and running until May 12 this retailer extravaganza will be taking over the Barwa Village three miles past the Old Airport Road near Wakra. The venue will showcase the best in consumer products ranging from fashion, electronics, cosmetics, food and dining and many more.

Acting General Manager of Barwa Village, Khalifa Al Mohannadi, has high hopes for its success. “We are pleased to announce the first edition of the Barwa Village Shopping Festival that commenced on the March 22,” he says. “ Barwa Village Shopping Festival will be a trademark event and will greatly benefit nearly 900 commercial shops in the village”.

54

During the festival’s eight-week span, lucky shoppers will have the chance to win iPads, Blackberry phones, a Toyota Prado and JF Cruiser and LG LCD television sets when they enter into the prize draws.

Customers can also benefit from various discount schemes from retailers seeking to turn their brand into a household name.

“Barwa Village Shopping Festival will be a milestone for the Barwa Village management to achieve its vision and position them accordingly in the minds of citizens and expat residents in the country”, says Shabrawi Khater, Managing Director for Network Advertising & Events.

Barwa Village is a newly- completed planned development committed to ensuring that communities located outside Doha enjoy the same consumer options, amenities and quality of life as those living in areas closer to the urban core.

Live entertainment and a special fun zone for kids adds a family-friendly element to the event. Parents can shop while their children enjoy fun activities to keep them busy. With so many retail options to choose from it can be hard to know where to start when taking in the event. The recently launched Barwa Shopping Festival website can help you navigate so you can find just the right item you want.

Acting as a guide to the festival, the website at www.bsf.qa is the go-to source to keep you updated in real time about what’s happening and when as well as through social media on Facebook and Twitter. As Qatar continues to grow at a rapid pace, its prosperity has translated directly to its residents and citizens who are looking to enjoy a certain style of living, luxury and comfort. Don’t forget to bring your pocketbook!

COMMUNITY

Say ‘I Do’ to iWED

The high-end wedding showcase is back for its 5th year running, taking over the Doha International Exhibition Centre from April 4-7.

Y

ou don’t have to be a blushing bride to enjoy the spectacle of wedding fashion at this year’s iWED event – but it helps! Building upon its success from previous years, the 2012 show promises to be bigger and better, unveiling a new look for a new, modern bride.

“The brand new look is moving iWED forward and putting Doha on the map as a fashion capital of the Middle East. We are continuously increasing our exposure to the rest of the world and are now associated with many renowned international events,” said Georges Saliba COO of Qatar Expo, the main organizer of the event.

If you’re looking for inspiration off the runway for your perfect wedding dress, iWED will bring the best international designers to Doha’s doors. With fashion, beauty and industry representatives from haute couture houses in Italy, Europe, Bahrain, Lebanon, the U.A.E. and Kuwait on hand there will be no shortage of choices for bridal parties look through.

Brides-to-be can sample high-end products before they walk down the aisle and maybe even rub shoulders with renowned designers Vera Wang, Robert Abi Nader, Pronovias and stylist Franck Provost in attendance.

QH and our sister magazine ABODE are proud sponsors of this year’s showcase event and we encourage you all to come out and ‘put a ring on it’ at iWED 2012.

It’s the perfect place to get inspiration for every facet of your special day: from fashion, décor, hair and makeup, catering and confectionary it’s all there for brides to dream and plot and pick from as they plan their walk down the aisle. Now that’s something worth saying ‘yes’ to!

55

COMMUNITY LISTINGS

Book Club

Wednesdays: Institut Français French School. An opportunity to discuss thoughtprovoking and topical books. The reading list is chosen by book club members and ranges from contemporary prize-winners to literary classics. A lively discussion is always guaranteed. Meeting once a month.

For more information, call 4493- 0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com

Doha Mums Pearl Coffee Break

ONE OF A KIND The Barwa Village Shopping Festival

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Barwa Village.

Organized by Network Advertising & Events with support from Barwa Village, the festival will amaze the residents with scintillating fun, boundless entertainment, and enticing shopping experience. It runs from 22nd March - 12th May. For more information: visit, www.networkqatar.com

Depression Support Group

Wed 4th: Various. 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 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.

Locations change monthly so check out the website www.dohamums.com

EVERY WEEK

Breastfeeding Support Group

Fertility Support Group

iWED 2012

New Arrivals Coffee

Tue 3rd: Various. Some find it tough, others find it easy ... it’s nice to meet other moms who are doing the same.

Babies and their siblings of any age are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. From 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com

Wed 4th – Sat 7th: Doha International Exhibition Centre. It’s the 5th edition of this highly regarded international wedding show. The prestigious Wedding Exhibition and glamorous fashion show is set to outshine all its regional competitors when it launches with a new identity. For more information, visit www.qatar-expo.com

56

Sundays: 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. For more information, visit www.fertilityA@dohamums.com

Mondays: Hyatt Plaza. Join the Doha Mums in welcoming prospective members to Doha at the Café de Chalet! It is located near the ‘middle entrance’ of Hyatt Plaza, and at the far end of Kiddy Zone (the enclosed toy store ‘kiosk’). Kids are treated to free play on a bouncy castle courtesy of Kiddy Zone.

From 9:30 a.m. No RSVP necessary. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com

Wednesdays: The Pearl-Qatar. Calling all Moms on The Pearl to go to Haagen-Dazs, near Tower 4. 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

Swap Club Qatar

Saturdays (biweekly): The Pearl-Qatar.

A community group for expats in Qatar to meet, find friends and swap their old books and CDs and enjoy reading new books for free! From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information, email swapclubqatar@hotmail.com

French Grammar Workshop

Saturdays: Institut Français French School.

Learn French though games, quizzes and songs. Either starting to learn French or a bit more advanced, master the finer points of French grammar with confidence. For more information, call 4493-0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

KIDS CLUB

Maktaba and Mathaf Reading Circles

Fri 13th and Thurs 17th: Mathaf.

The Maktaba Children’s Library project will host readings and activities for children 4-6 years old with the help of local volunteers. Special connections will be made with Mathaf’s current exhibitions, encouraging families to think about links between stories and art.

From 4:00 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public on a first come, first serve basis. Language: Arabic & English . RSVP: For more information, visit mathaf_education@qma.org.qa

Pool Playgroup

Mondays: InterContinental Hotel. The little ones will enjoy the shaded pool and the older kids can explore Doha’s longest private beach. Morning session is from 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. and the afternoon session is from 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Kids Yoga

Saturdays: Yama Yoga Studios. For ages 4-8yrs. QR 45 for kids only and QR 35 for kids who have parents joining the simultaneous 9:30 a.m. vinyasa yoga class. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com. Or call 6617-5802.

Arts & Crafts at Kempinski Kids Club

Tuesdays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Your little one will enjoy a series of activities, which are educational and fun at the same time. 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. QR 60 per workshop, per child (ages 4–12).

For more information, call 4405-3308 or email kidsclub.doha@kempinski.com

Once Upon a Time...

Saturdays: M Level Debriefing Room, QMA. Takashi Murakami is one of the most intriguing contemporary Japanese artists whose exhibition ‘EGO’, is a wonderful source of inspiration for young artists.

Inspired by his works Kawaii Vacances and Superflat Flowers, enter Murakami’s fantasy world and go deep into your imagination to create an outdoor installation of floral creatures using Murakami’s out-of-theordinary style! Age group: 6-12 years. From 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, email: mmoura@qma.org.qa

57

KIDS CLUB LISTINGS

If I Were A Little Bird

EVERY WEEK Children’s Library

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: The American Community School. Explore the world of literature with your kids. The library will be open three days a week and you can come and read, browse, borrow and return books! For more information, visit www.dohamums.com

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 further details please visit www.dohamums.com or email: events@dohamums.com

58

Tuesdays: M Level Debriefing Room, QMA. This workshop aims to contribute to your child’s creative and cognitive development by allowing them to respond to what they see, hear, smell, touch and feel. Surrounded by images and sculptures of birds; a motif often used in Islamic art, toddlers will be inspired to create their own representation of a bird- or simply explore and manipulate clay and other natural materials. Age group: 1-3 years.

From 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information, email: mmoura@qma.org.qa

Gondolania Soft Play Area Playgroup

Wednesdays: Villaggio. It’s great for kids of all ages! From 2:30 p.m. till 5:00 p.m.

Only QR 15 for as long as you want. Turn right at the entrance and follow it round and you will see some trampolines and an enormous soft play area, that’s where the group will be! For further details please visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com

Family Fridays @ Mathaf

Fridays: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. Workshops for children aged four to twelve and their families. Explore the galleries, enjoy a family activity, and art-making inspired by ‘Saraab’ in each ninety-minute session. 4:00 p.m. Price: Free Language: English and Arabic RSVP necessary. For more information, email mathaf_education@qma.org.qa

Kids Arabic Reading Group

Saturdays: This reading group is held at Doha Mums Library at ACS. This group is suitable for kids who can read and understand simple sentences in Arabic.

From 3:30 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com

KIDS CLUB LISTINGS

DAILY Birthday Parties at Kempinski Kids Club

Daily: All things are possible in the Kempinski Kids Club, from winter wonderlands to treasure hunting to face painting and whatever else your heart desires. Customize your very own private party whether it’s for a birthday or any other special occasion, come and celebrate with us. For more information, call 4405-3308, email kidsclub.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha

Make Your Relaxation Fun For Kids!

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Designed for your health and well-being, get a 60-minute Swedish massage, two full-day passes to PURE Leisure & Wellness Centre and a 30-minute Spa Oceana Hydrotherapy treatment for two. Leave your children (maximum 2 children) at Kempinski Kids Club for four hours of serenity. QR 1,499.

For more information, call 4405 3307 or email wellness.doha@kempinski.com

TH E LIVE LY ATMOSPH ERE OF A TOWN SQUARE. AN ECLECTIC EXPERIENCE. Welcome to The Square – an eclectic all-day dining restaurant at the InterContinental Doha The City.

It’s the new place to meet, that bustles with the energy of a lively town square. Four interactive cooking stations feature dishes from Japan, China, India, Thailand, Europe and the Middle East.

For QR 88 per person, enjoy our delectable three-course business lunch with buffet starters, à la carte main courses and buffet desserts.

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

When looking for a residential or commercial property, for some the priority is a premium location and for others it is a luxurious modern finish with state-of-the-art facilities. Then, of course, there are those who want it all.

Whatever your reasons, you will love going to the office every morning and returning home every evening.

Experience a unique signature lifestyle; with luxury living redefined.

One Porto Arabia The Pearl Qatar

Laguna Beach West Bay Area

Kempinski Residences & Suites West Bay Area

Alfardan Towers West Bay Area

Burj Al Gassar West Bay Area

Alfardan Gardens Villa Complex Al Hilal Area

For more information on the above and other Properties, please contact +974 4440 8308 or visit us on www.alfardanproperties.com | A Member of Alfardan Group

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

FOOD & DINING

Songkran Festival

Thurs 12th: Grand Hyatt Doha. Isaan, will wish you “suk-san wan songkran” (Happy Songkran Day!) and recreate authentic Songkran celebrations. While chefs are on show in open theatrical kitchens, guests will enjoy genuine Thai ambience, along with delicacies featuring natural spices and flavours. QR 280 per person. For more information, call 4448-1250 or e-mail isaan.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Egyptian Food Festival

Wed 25th – Sun 29th: Sharq Village & Spa. At Al Liwan, Chef Mahmoud Gawad treats us to his stunning interpretation of modern and classic Egyptian dishes – a treat for the taste buds, indeed! From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. QR 250 per person. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

Chef’s Table

Mon 16th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. This unique gourmet experience is paired with carefully selected vinos. The interactive experience includes commentary on each dish, explaining 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 booklet as a gift to remember. From 7:00 p.m. QR 450 per person. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Chocolate Fondue Carnival

Sat 14th: W Doha. Mix and mingle with other chocolate lovers alike and stay a while enjoying the delicious chocolate fondue.

QR 100 per adult, QR 70 per child from 5–11 yrs old. First seating 12:00 p.m. till 3:00p.m, second seating 3:30p.m. till 6:30p.m.

For more information, call 4453-5385.

Reservation required.

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Culinary Quiz Night

Mon 16th: Ramada Plaza. Back by popular demand! Five rounds of yummy food and fun questions all about what you’re eating and drinking at Picasso’s. The price includes vino, and some surprise drinks along the way! QR 250 per person. For further information, call 4428-1555.

61

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Lebanese Luxury at

Layali

By Sydnee Bryant Photography by Jessie Palanca

Craving some shisha and a hearty Arabic feast? Head down Salwa Road, where you’ll find Layali nestled in between a variety of shops and restaurants. QH checks out one of the most authentic Arabic restaurants in Doha.

62

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

W

hen you walk into Layali, you’ll immediately notice a few things. One, the welcome atmosphere and comfortable seats are perfect for gettogethers with big groups of friends; and two, warm sunshine floods into the open, spacious restaurant, leaving you with a sunny feeling that will last all afternoon.

Layali focuses on traditional Lebanese food, meaning they have a huge menu with a variety of options. Once you arrive, your server will bring you a basket of farm-fresh veggies, like something out of your grandmother’s garden.

The stars on the menu are definitely the mezza. Start with a light, delicate bowl of lentil soup. The smooth soup is definitely not lacking in flavour and the large portion is very filling.

Or, get your recommended five servings of vegetables a day by scooping up a heaping portion of fattouch. This crispy, beautifully-seasoned salad is made from ripe veggies that taste like they came from the same garden as the veggie basket.

Rip off a piece of warm flat bread and dip it into the big bowl of dense, smooth, creamy hummus, loaded with chickpeas and dripping with olive oil. Or try some of the light, fluffy moutable, adorned with pomegranates. The light, crunchy pomegranates contrast with the smooth texture of the eggplant.

If you’re craving meat, load up your plate with some intricately seasoned sojok, thin sausages that crumble in your mouth and leave an explosion of flavour on your tongue.

carrots mingle in your mouth. The firm chicken has a nice, crunchy outside and goes great with the slightly tangy garlic sauce. The beef is soft and tender, with a char-grilled flavour.

For a salty treat, dig into the halloumi.

The cheese has the desired level of squeakiness without any grease. The intense flavour dances on your palate, leaving you wanting more.

Layali offers a variety of traditional Lebanese desserts, such as mafroukeh, kinafa ossmally, rizbil halleb and meghli, but you’ll be so full you might not have any room left!

The unequivocal standout mezza is the pumpkin kibbeh. The kibbeh is almost sweet, with a nice citrusy flavour. This dish achieves a sum that is far greater than its parts, as the taste is much more than you would ever expect from breaded vegetables and pumpkin. You’ll fight over the last one on the plate!

If you’re still hungry after a symphony of mezza, try the mixed grill, which includes lamb, chicken and beef. The lamb’s flavour slowly increases as you chew, while the peas and

ABOUT LAYALI Timings: Sunday to Saturday,

12pm – 12am Dress Code: Semi-Formal Average Meal Price: QR 65 – QR 85 Smoking or Non-Smoking: Both Vino: No Telephone No: 4431-0005 or 4431-0006

63

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Home-Style Decadence

at Mamig

By Alex Corey Photography by John Romuald Ruiz

QH sets its sights on Mamig, a lush Armenian and Lebanese restaurant that graces the promenade of Katara Cultural Village. With its name meaning ‘grandmother’ in Armenian we leave with our bellies full, feeling like we’re one of the family.

C

hef Zarmig is a young Armenian who loves her job. She is warm, hardworking and ambitious – a perfectionist. It’s clear she’s involved down to the smallest detail of the how the restaurant is run, and it pays off. Proud of the ambience, her team and of course her menu, she insists the food speak for itself. The kitchen is open and staffed with people who grew up eating the food they are making; it’s a clean, efficient and warm space, much like those our grandmothers would have run.

We begin the meal with a crisp virgin arak that is light, fruity and sweet. Next is freshly-made bread, eech salad, the Babig (Grandfather) salad, the Mamig salad and labneh. The labneh has a nice bit of spice which leads it to me declaring it my new favourite. The Mamig and Babig salads are similar in terms of ingredients: fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, onion and herbs, but different in presentation. The Babig ingredients are cut into large, juicy chunks while the Mamig is finer and resembles a herbier fattoush. The eech salad is a wheat salad whose base reminds us of couscous mixed with onion, tomato and a delectable Armenian dressing.

Next up is the soubereg, decadent layers of dough and cheeses. It’s light and

64

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING It has a wonderfully full texture – sweet and doughy. The ousmalia with ashta is the other favourite, made with shredded dough that’s caramelized and served with milk pudding. It has a velvety, creamy texture that is balanced and unexpectedly full of flavour.

We finish off the meal with some Armenian tea with cinnamon. Over the course of the evening we note that each dish has its own unique personality that elevates it. Not only that, but each one complements any other on the menu; it doesn’t matter how you mix or choose.

The first time you go it will be because you want to try something a little different, but you’ll go back because it’s simply one of the best places to eat in town -- or so the food tells me.

heavy, flaky yet doughy, tart but sweet all at the same time. The next appetizer, the faharer, is a mixture of tiny sausages and potatoes with a hint of pomegranate molasses and an echo of what could be a subtly sweet balsamic vinegar.

For our main, we choose a variety of lamb kebabs and the monte. One lamb dish was served with yogurt and crispis.

The yogurt was warm and bursting with garlic and I could not get enough of it!

The other kebab was the fishna kebab, served with baked cherries. In both cases, my party and I agreed the lamb is moist, tender and flavourful. The fishna

kebab is our number one of the two due to its luscious cherries soaked in a divine sauce.

My meal, the monte, is the favourite main of the evening, even for my friends.

It’s beef wrapped in dough, slightly fried then baked with a tomato sauce and smothered in that white, dreamy garlic sauce that I have not been able to satisfy my need for! It is served in a crock-pot keeping it toasty warm.

INFORMATION BOX Timings:

Dress Code: Average Meal Price:

Smoking or Non-Smoking: Vino: Telephone No:

Sunday to Saturday 12pm – 12am Semi-Formal Main QR 75, Appetizer QR 30, Drink QR 20 Both No 4408-0800

We are treated to a selection of traditional desserts and I dig into the halawet jibna, or ‘sweet cheese’.

65

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Al Mourjan

Food Corner

Ashraf A. Raad, chief executive and cuisine concept chef at Al Mourjan, tells us how to make Spinach Cannelloni this month. Enjoy!

Method 1. Lightly grease an ovenproof dish with a little olive oil. Preheat the oven to 200C (400F / Gas Mark 6).

2. Wash the spinach well, put into a pan dripping wet and heat over medium heat until it wilts. Drain, refresh in cold water, drain again and squeeze out excess water.

3. Roughly chop the spinach and mix with the mashed ricotta. Stir in the egg and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg.

4. Spoon the mixture into the cannelloni tubes and place them side by side in the baking dish.

5. Drop the tomatoes into boiling water for a few seconds, refresh in cold water, then skin, quarter, de-seed and chop roughly.

SPINACH CANNELLONI Ingredients

Olive oil, for greasing 250g / 9oz cannelloni tubes (not pre-cooked) For the filling: 500g / 6 cups spinach 200g / 2 cups ricotta cheese 1 egg Nutmeg Salt and freshly ground pepper

For the tomatoes: 225g / 1/2lb tomatoes 1 shallot 1 garlic clove 1 tbsp olive oil For the béchamel sauce: 1 tbsp butter 1 tbsp flour 250ml / 1 cup milk 75g / ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Salt and freshly ground pepper

6. Peel and finely chop the shallot and garlic. Heat the oil and sauté the shallot and garlic then add the tomatoes and cook over medium heat for about five minutes.

7. For the béchamel sauce, melt the butter, stir in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes without browning. Then gradually stir in the milk. Simmer for 10 minutes, season with salt and pepper and stir in half of the Parmesan.

8. Spread the tomatoes on the cannelloni.

Pour the sauce over and sprinkle with the rest of the Parmesan cheese. Dot with butter and bake for about 30 minutes.

67

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND Goan Fish Specialties at Taj Rasoi

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Marriott Doha.

Goan cuisine is famous for its rich variety of fish dishes cooked with elaborate recipes along with chili peppers, vinegar and special Goan spices giving the food a unique flavour and aroma. Enjoy Taj Rasoi`s Goan culinary treasures served amidst the elegant setting of the award-winning restaurant. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.

For more information, call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

Carnivore Nights

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Grand Hyatt Doha.

Meat lovers will be pleased to know that The Grill restaurant will dedicate the month of April to its tastiest cuts. Sink your teeth into Doha’s most tender and juicy steaks during April and try our extensive range of prime Australian and New Zealand beef along with the perfect wine match. For more information call 4448-1240 or email thegrill.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Rich Smooth and Mellow

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Sharq Village & Spa. At the Cigar Lounge the bittersweet notes of rich chocolate set off beautifully the smoky, earthy flavours of a fine Scottish malt and Cuban cigar. Try this heavenly combination.

From 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. QR 185 per set. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

Liquid Promotion

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Ritz-Carlton Doha.

Become enchanted in little Italy, Porcini, with a six-course ensemble of molecular cuisine creations by Chef Ricardo Acquista and his team of ‘Il Giardino Armonico’ chefs who will orchestrate an evening to delight the palate. This culinary symphony is complemented by the harmonious notes of a classic guitarist, creating the most romantic ambience. From 7:00 p.m. QR 385 (six-course menu without vino). For more information, call 4484-8000.

68

Burger & Bordeaux Promotion

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Four Seasons Doha.

A month of burger and Bordeaux at the Library & Cigar Lounge doesn’t seem enough for everyone; the feast is being extended due to popular demand! Choose your own appetizing fillings for your burger and match it with your favourite white and red Bordeaux. For more information, call 4494-8888.

Mango Mania

Mon 2nd – Wed 25th: Marriott Doha.

There will be a wide range of mango treats on offer in the Lobby and poolside. Experience these creative desserts and pastries with your family and friends while having a freshly-brewed tea or coffee. For more information, call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

Hot Plate Promotion

Tues 3rd – Mon 30th: Holiday Villa Doha. At D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4408-4888

Earth Day

Sun 22nd: Grand Hyatt Doha. Hyatt International places great importance on green initiatives, especially those that help children learn about nature. It is essential that both adults and children have access to a healthy, safe environment. Biscotti will take the initiative and special cupcakes will be packaged in recycled boxes. Come and support Earth Day, and let’s all be green! For more information, call 4448-1282 or email biscotti.ghdoha@hyatt.com

EVERY WEEK Grill Night

Sundays: W Doha. Steak connoisseurs and red-meat lovers converge upon Market by Jean-Georges to savor their prize cuts of tender meat, fowl and seafood every Sunday night. 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.

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

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 185 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 260 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information, call 4402-3333.

Italian Night

Mondays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Savour the delicacies of the Italian cuisine, choosing from a wide array of antipasti, live pasta station, pizzas and Italian cheeses.

Get a feel of ‘La Dolce Vita’ for 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

Meat the Grills

Mondays and Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. Eat as much as souvlaki BBQ as you can by the outdoor terrace! Enjoy an open buffet with fresh cold mezzedes and salads, complemented by desserts. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 165 per person. For reservations, call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444 or email mykonos@icdoha.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Churrasco Nights

Mondays – Wednesdays: Sheraton Doha. Try new Chef Water’s menu: a starter and four or seven cuts of meat charcoalgrilled on the Churrasco grill with South American side dishes and dessert from QR 150. Grilled Argentinian Pizza from QR 60. Happy Hour everyday from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Enjoy South America’s most delicious drinks with a 30% discount.

For more information, call 4485-4556.

International Buffet

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 Brazilian Churrascaria

Monday’s – Saturdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

Set your senses on fire with 15 variations of sizzling meats and seafood on skewers, carved at your table by Passadores. It’s a blaze of colours and flavours with an enticing range of foods. From QR 250 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

Harpist Catja Cyganek @ Figus Restaurant Mondays – Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. From 7:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Afternoon Heaven

Mondays - Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. 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. House beverages QR 25. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

70

Asian Night

Wednesdays: Millennium Hotel. Travel to the Asian world and savor 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

Seafood Platter

Tuesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy a selection of the freshest seafood at the Admiral’s Club. Platters can serve one or two people, so bring friends along and relax in front of serene views of the marina. From 6:00 p.m till 10:00 p.m.

QR 260 (Serves two people.) For more information, call 4484-8000.

Tapas Galore

Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. For tapas lovers, this unlimited night is for you to indulge in.

Enjoy a selection of tantalizing tapas with three glasses of vino for only QR 220 per person. For more information, call 4402-3333.

Steak Night

Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. Choose your meat cuts and size and enjoy all the meat you can! QR 195 per person with soft drinks and juices and QR 270 per person with selected house beverages. For more information, call 4402-3333.

Swiss Night

Tuesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

Traditional fondue and raclette made with authentic Swiss cheese blended with a variety of tastes and flavours complement a great dining experience. 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

Carlo Bellini @ Blue Terrace

Tuesdays – Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Live international music from the resident Italian musician and singer, Carlo Bellini, under the stars in the relaxing atmosphere of the dining and lounge terrace overlooking the magnificent Aspire Zone and Park. From 8:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4445-5555

WOW Promotion

Wednesdays: The Torch-Doha Hotel.

Women receive 30% discount at Flying Carpet for the lunch or dinner buffet. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4446- 6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

Asian Night

Wednesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

Take a culinary tour of Asia and discover mouth-watering Peking duck, Mongolian barbeque, Japanese sushi and Indian curry for QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m. For more information, call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com

Indian Flavours

Wednesdays: Oryx Rotana. Savour an aromatic feast and indulge your senses with authentic Indian flavours for QR 185 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 260 person, including unlimited selected house beverages.

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

Curry Night

Wednesdays: Mövenpick Tower & Suites.

With a tantalizing buffet featuring ten kinds of meat, seafood and vegetarian curries from green to red, mild to spicy, the selection will enliven your palate with all the flavours that true curry lovers really want. QR 115 per person. Reservations are essential. Take advantage of the MTS Membership card to receive 15% discount for the whole table. Free membership with every reservation (conditions apply). For more information, call 4496-6600 or visit www.moevenpick-doha-tower.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

1001 Arabian Nights

Wednesdays: Marriott Doha. Enjoy the real Arabic taste and the rich flavours of this culinary tradition. Take a break and indulge in the lavish Oriental buffet and live cooking station. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. All you can eat buffet dinner QR 175 per person. For more information, call 4429-8499 or e-mail DineMarriottDoha@marriott.com

A True Taste of France

Wednesday – Monday: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel.

Announcing its new French restaurant Brasserie Centre-Ville! Enjoy Parisian panache with authentic French delicacies including oysters, cocottes and fondues with a wide selection of fine beverages by the glass from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

DAILY Wagyu Menu at Aroma

Daily: Kempinski Doha. Executive Chef, Jonathan Spiteri is passionate about his culinary creations. Try the new Sage Derby Wagyu Burger or the Char-Grilled Wagyu Rib-Eye Steak. From 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

Seafood Obsession

Daily: Sharq Village & Spa. Seafood buffet at Al Dana, The freshest catch from Gulf waters and beyond is displayed in all its glory at this buffet with live cooking stations. QR 220 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For reservations, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

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, homemade dessert and one soft drink.

Choose your main dish from different selections. Daily specials from QR 65. For more information, call 4428-8803/20.

Italian Feast

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy authentic Italian food at La Veranda, including pasta and wood- fire pizza. Relax, take in the sea view and listen to the beautiful music of the Italian guitar player. Open from 12:00 till 2:45 p.m. (last order) and 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (last order). For more information, call 4485-4556.

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. Chef Matteo offers to his diners an eclectic presentation of refined regional Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Chef Matteo’s transcendent yet simple approach to contemporary Italian cooking is complemented by an excellent selection of Italian wines, tranquil ambience and beautiful interior. 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

Lunch Buffet at Crossroads Kitchen

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Crossroads Kitchen is offering a fresh international buffet. QR 155 per person from 12:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

72

Theme Nights at Flying Carpet

Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Enjoy international cuisine with a twist: Sunday is Mediterranean night, Monday is Barbecue night, Tuesday is Curry Mania, Wednesday is Pan-Latino night, Thursday is Seafood Delight, Friday is Arabian night and Saturday awaits you with Asian treasures. QR 190 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4446- 6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

Recipes Prepared with Passion

Bread of the Day

Daily: Kempinski Doha. Check out the new delicious items in the dinner à la carte menu at Aroma, a one-of-akind fine dining experience. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha

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

Try his special creations: cinnamon bread, bread with raisins, walnuts. From 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com

Market Tasting Menu

Al Hubara Restaurant

Daily: W Doha. Savour the chef’s favourite - a five-course set menu featuring the most delightful and mouth-watering dishes! From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 280 per person.

For more information, call 4453-5135.

Spice Market Tasting Menu

Daily: W Doha. Start off 2012 with the Spice Market tasting menu created by Spice Market Head Chef Darsin Joseph.

Five courses with ten mouthwatering flavours and a bottle of your choice for QR 500 for two people (conditions apply).

From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.

Make-Your-Own Sandwich

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Quick Bites lets you choose your bread, spreads, garnish and more healthy and mouth-watering choices of fillers. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com

Daily: Sheraton Doha. A mix of delights at the International lunch buffet QR 175. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Theme Nights dinner buffet; Monday Thai Night, Tuesday European Night, Friday International Flair, Saturday Al Sham Night, Sunday Italian Pasta. QR 190 per person. Wednesdays and Thursdays, Seafood Extravaganza QR 235. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m.

For more information, call 4485-4556.

Mykonos

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Reveal the ‘Greek’ in you while enjoying the famous Bouzouki duo live and new Chef Konstantinos Panou’s Mediterranean specialties. Open from 12:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Live entertainment from 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., except Saturdays. For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

New Menu at Three Sixty

Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Check out the new menu and weekly Chef’s Special at the only revolving restaurant in Doha, situated on the 47th floor of Qatar’s new iconic hotel. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information, call 4446-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Toasty Treat & Bonus Card

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Buy the famous German bread at half price, everyday between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m...if there is any left! Moreover for every eight loaves, receive one for free. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com

relaxing city break

Gourmet House

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Is there anything better that the seductive aroma of freshly baked, homemade, crisp delicacies? Only in Gourmet House, the fine foods boutique and cozy CafĂŠ. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m.

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

Tasting & Sharing at The Lounge Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Relax after work and share with your friends delicious bites from the Tasting & Sharing menu. Between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. get 50% discount at the Very Happy Hour. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com

Giant Burger at Irish Harp

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy the ultimate giant burger with French fries and have a pint for QR 70. For more information, call 4485-4556.

A pristine beach spread, lush greenery surroundings and unlimited recreation options are waiting to be discovered in this oasis of tranquility.

Enjoy our day use room rate of QR 550* allowing you to use the resort facilities including a rejuvenating massage treatment .

Also available are unique team building offers starting at QR 220* per delegate, we are always ready to tailor our services to your specific requirements.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

WEEKEND THURSDAY Weekly Chef’s Special

Thursdays: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Weekly chef’s special changes every Thursday in Doha’s only revolving restaurant situated on the 47th floor. For more information, call 4446-5600 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

Seafood Delight

Thursdays: Oryx Rotana. Experience the bounty of the sea at Choices. From lobster, prawns and shrimps to freshly shucked oysters on the half-shell, enjoy unlimited seafood offerings for just QR 210 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 285, including unlimited selected house beverages. Shisha is available on the pool terrace. For more information, call 4402-3333.

Seafood Night

Thursdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. A sumptuous buffet with a spectacular spread of tasty seafood bites bringing together Asian and Mediterranean combinations for a colourful collection of delicious food. 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

Gourmet Route

Thursdays: The Gallery restaurants have banded together to enrich the palate and enhance the dining experience of its guests – a real feast of the senses. A culinary journey that evokes an open food market with spectacular live cooking stations, presenting cuisines from Latin and North America, Europe, China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 225 per person; QR 320 with bubbly.

For more information, call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

Barbecue at the Admirals Terrace

Thursdays and Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. By the turquoise waters of the Gulf enjoy a mixed grill selection from the live barbecue station. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 195 per person. For more information, call 4484-8000.

74

Shwarma Promotion

Thursdays and Fridays: Sheraton Doha.

Enjoy the most classic and best dish from Arabian Country’s at Waterhole for QR 25.

Happy Hour from 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. with 30% off on selected beverages.

For more information, call 4485-4556.

FRIDAY Breakfast Feast on Friday

Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and there is no better way to enjoy it than at Admiral’s Club while sitting on the terrace surrounded by the serene views of marina.

From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. QR 110 including coffee, tea, and fresh juices.

For more information, call 4484-8000.

Irresistible Fridays

Fridays: Sealine Beach Resort. A delectable pizza treat: buy one get one free at the Lagoon Ristorante. Be it veggie pizza, Margherita or a mouth watering chicken spinach pizza, the second one comes free of charge. For more information, call 4476-5249

Steak Night

Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Choose your favourite steak cuts from the display of prime quality meats and fish and have them cooked to perfection for 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

Swimming Pool Restaurant BBQ

Fridays: Sheraton Doha. BBQ with condiments and fresh fruit carving from QR 82. Different meat and fish from the charcoal grill. Friday Light Lunch: choose salad bar and one dessert for QR 100. For more information, call 4485-4556.

Caribbean Night

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Enjoy a Caribbean Seafood B.B.Q dinner by the beachfront at the Fish Market and cruise along with the music of the Doha Steel Band as they serenade you. Enjoy grilled fish and seafood freshly prepared by our expert Chefs including live cooking stations at QR 295 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information, please call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

Family Lunch Specials

Fridays and Saturdays: Sheraton Doha.

At Al Hubara Restaurant, Friday lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. inclusive of a soft drink and tea or coffee. QR 200. Saturday lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. inclusive of a soft drink and tea or coffee.

QR 200. Saturday dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. inclusive of a soft drink and tea or coffee. QR 210 per person. For more information, call 4485-4556.

Middle Eastern Buffet @ Flavours

Fridays and Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner and relish an up-to-date reflection of Middle Eastern cuisine prepared in lively show kitchens. Breakfast for QR 135 per person, lunch and dinner for QR 180 per person. Breakfast from 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., lunch from 12:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m., dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4445-5555.

Treasures From The Deep

Fridays – Tuesdays: Tempt your appetite with the delectable seafood buffet, one of Doha’s highlights for all seafood lovers. A wide variety of local and imported seafood prepared according to contemporary and traditional recipes. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. All you can eat buffet dinner QR 175 per person. For more information, call 4429-8499 or e-mail dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

SATURDAY Burger Night

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.

Retail Night

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Enjoy the new Tapas menu and your favourite vino at retail price at the Cellar. 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 award-winning best restaurant. Eat as much you can for QR 119 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

Sushi Night

Saturdays: W Doha. Add some flavour to the start of the week with Spice Market’s 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. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 220 per person.

For more information, call 4453-5135.

Admiral’s Saturday Roast Saturdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy the perfect hand-carved Saturday roast, a selection of roast meats, with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings cooked to perfection! From 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 120 per person.

For more information, call 4484-8000.

Lebanese Breakfast

Saturdays: Millennium Hotel. Enjoy authentic Lebanese flavours, decoration and 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

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Crossroads Family Brunch

Fridays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Doha’s newest family brunch @ introductory rates! Crossroads Kitchen offers 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

Sushi and Steak Night @ Blue Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Enjoy dinner under the stars with unlimited sushi prepared by our Chef Victor, followed by succulent barbequed steak cooked to your liking, served with your favourite vegetables and selection of dessert for the perfect ending, QR 195 per person.

From 7:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information, call 4445-5555.

International Buffet

Saturdays and Sundays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Serving a lavish buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with an extensive a la carte menu.

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

‘Goreng-Goreng’

Saturdays and Sundays: Holiday Villa Doha. Malaysian-style afternoon snacks at Lagenda International Restaurant, including favourites such as Cucur Udang (fried prawn fritters), roti jala (laced crepe), and the tarik (pulled tea with condensed milk). From 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, 4408-4888.

BRUNCH Flying Carpet Brunch

Fridays: The Torch-Doha Hotel. A trendy and fabulous Friday Brunch with an array of specialties from the Mediterranean, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.

Children’s buffet and activities with a very special price for children between 6 and 12 years at QR 99. For more information, call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com 76

Brunch @ Cucina, The Italian Kitchen!

Fridays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. For Cucina fanatics there’s now a fresh and flavoursome brunch using only the finest ingredients from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

Adults QR 190 including soft beverages.

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

The Cellar’s New Brunch Fridays: Oryx Rotana. An amazing seafood buffet, a selection of tapas a la carte with paella, mussels and others specialties and a selection of grilled items such as lobsters, giant prawns, shrimps or Black Angus beef. While eating, enjoy the live entertainment from the Carambola band. QR 195 per person including soft drinks or QR 275 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4402-3333.

Cosmo Brunch

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

Dim Sum Brunch

Fridays: Holiday Villa Doha. All you can eat dim sum and sushi. Enjoy this splendid spread of Chinese and Japanese delicacies, including steamed or fried dumplings, spring rolls, steamed buns and sushi served with free-flowing Chinese tea. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 130 per adult and QR 65 per child. For more information call 4408-4230.

Hyde Park Brunch

Fridays: Ramada Plaza. 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. For more information, call 4428-1555.

Friday Family Brunch

Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Unwind with friends and family at The Lagoon Restaurant and indulge in a luxurious buffet, live musical performances and a lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere.

Complimentary Ritz-Kids Corner available for children aged 4-12 years old. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 220 per person, QR 295 with bubbly and QR 110 for children from 4-12 years old. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Market Brunch

Fridays: W Doha. Watch fresh, local products and ingredients come together splendidly in the Mediterranean-inspired show kitchen. The brunch serves international and Mediterranean cuisine.

QR 320 per person including specialty drinks, QR 280 including soft drinks.

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

Brunch at the Arabica Terrace Tent

Fridays: Four Seasons Doha. Book your favourite table in the inviting atmosphere of the Arabica tent and enjoy a feast of delectable dishes prepared to perfection.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8888.

Jazzy Friday Brunch

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. The brunch offers wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. QR 210 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 285 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4402-3333.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Street Food Brunch

Fridays: W Doha. Asian street food meets slick city chic at the new weekly Spice Market Brunch, with a backdrop of live upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 320 per person including drinks; QR 280 per person without adult beverages. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4453-5135.

Family Friday Brunch

Fridays: MĂśvenpick Hotel Doha.

Experience the all-new brunch showcasing an array of innovative culinary delights.

In collaboration with Jarir Bookstore, the little ones have their own play kingdom with live entertainment, a bouncy castle, PlayStation, games and even a kiddy-sized 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

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.

Far Eastern Buffet

Fridays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha.

Chopsticks restaurant is serving a delightful lunch buffet of Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. QR 129 for adults and QR 65 for children ages six to twelve. For more information, call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Yum Cha Thai Style Brunch at Isaan

Fridays: Grand Hyatt Doha. The restaurant’s open show kitchens are set in a captivating scene with authentic steam, along with grill and wok preparations served at an ‘all-you-can-eat’ lunch. And now introducing Yum Cha from creative Chef Pachwida – steaming Dim Sums brought fresh to your table. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person, including soft drinks, QR 395 per person, including selected house beverages, QR 680 per person, including bubbly. For more information, call 4448-1250.

The Grill Brunch

Fridays: Grand Hyatt Doha. It is one of the most lavish brunches in the city, with all manner of meats, seafoods and shellfish on offer plus a decadent array of delicious desserts, chocolate fountains and the like.

Dine inside in spacious comfort or al fresco in Grand Hyatt’s lush tropical gardens.

Music courtesy of Rocca resident DJ Mark Bambach. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

QR 250 per person, including soft drinks and QR 395, including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information, call 4448-1240.

Friday Family Brunch

Fridays: Sheraton Doha. Al Shaheen rooftop restaurant offers international cuisine with unlimited soft drinks at QR 220 or choose the bubbly package at QR 250.

You will enjoy live entertainment for your pleasure and kids enchantment as well. For more information, call 4485-4556.

The Café Restaurant Brunch

Fridays: 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. QR 250 per person with free flowing bubbly. (Also, open daily for breakfast from 6:30 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.) For more information, call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

78

Le Cigalon Brunch

Fridays: La Cigale. This spring Le Cigalon offers an extended international buffet lunch overlooking an open kitchen area. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 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.

Friday Family Lunch in Aroma

Fridays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. A team of chefs bring the buffet to your table. Culinary delights from the fourcourse menu are there for you to taste and share with your family and friends. QR 180 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com

Family Brunch

Fridays and Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Tuck into a magnificent buffet in Al Liwan, with cooking stations and a carvery. There’s live entertainment and lots to amuse the little ones. QR 250 per person, half price for kids under twelve and free for children under six. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

Weekend Family Brunch

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.

Gallery Brunch

Fridays and Saturdays: Marriott Doha. Embark on a culinary journey and discover an array of live stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, featuring favourites such as sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream, kounafa and more. The kids club offers a special buffet and entertainment.

From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 235 per person and QR 340 including bubbly. For more information, call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

High Tea @ Victoria Lounge

Al Dana Brunch

Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. A stylish finale to the week with an extensive buffet of international and Middle Eastern favourites. QR 300 per person with freeflowing sparkling vino or QR 250 with soft drinks. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.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 175 per person (price includes food only). For more information, call 4402-3333.

AFTERNOON TEA High Tea Time

Daily: Grand Hyatt Doha. Choose from four packages that will take you on a journey through the flavours of the world: Asian: Thai-style salmon gravalax, sandwiches, prawn sui mei, golden parcels, mango cake, and prawn cookies served with lemongrass and ginger tea. Moroccan: flavours of figs and lavender, cheese stuffed with apricots, shell-on pistachios, and baklava served with traditional Moroccan mint tea. English: cucumber, salmon and egg sandwiches, scones, sweet cakes and macaroons served with Earl Grey. Middle East: assorted baklava, labnah and cucumber on pita bread, hummus, spicy olives and shrak bread, chermoula chicken with muhammara arabesque, sweet cinnamon syrup, apple cinnamon financier, dates, and rose petal preserves served with black Assam tea. For more information, call 4448-1318 or email almaha.ghdoha@hyatt.com

High Tea at Kufic Lounge

Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Take a break and enjoy finger sandwiches, home-made mini pastries with your choice of tea or coffee, in Doha’s trendiest lounge for QR 75 per person. From 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.

For more information, call: 444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

Daily: Grand Heritage Doha. Enjoy in the warmth and cozy atmosphere of this traditional Victorian Tea Lounge a combination of fresh sandwiches, homemade flavoured scones and a selection of tea cakes, pastries and sweets. QR 135 for the Tea Stand.

From 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 4445-5555.

Seasons Tea Lounge

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Have you tried strawberries in all shapes and sizes?

Strawberry treats; cake, mousse, candies and a lot more. Don’t wait any longer or you might miss it. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 4494-8888.

Big English Afternoon Tea (Extended till Late)

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. For more information, call 4485-4556.

BUSINESS LUNCH Express Business Lunch

Saturdays – Thursdays: Grand Hyatt Doha. Combining efficiency, rapidity and quality is now possible in Rocca. A three course menu will be at your disposal for just QR 85 including mineral water from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4448-1272 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com

Chopsticks Business 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

Business Lunch Formula

Daily: La Cigale. Le Central welcomes you and your corporate associates for a closed business deal with its speciality 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 irresistible desserts for only QR 150. For more information, call 4428-8772.

Burj Al Hamam Business Lunch Sundays – Thursdays: Burj Al Hamam, The Pearl-Qatar. Enjoy a business lunch for only QR 95 per person. For more information, call 4495-3876.

Lunch Escape Set

Sundays – Thursdays: Holiday Villa Doha. Choose from a gorgeous feast of scrumptious Chinese or Japanese delicacies.

From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. From QR 50 per person. For more information, call 4408-4888.

Business Lunch at Cucina

Sundays - Thursdays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Cucina’s quick and epicurean business lunch offers a three-course menu with a wide range of choices for starters, main course and irresistible 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 79

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

A Trip Around the Regions of Italy

Sundays – Thursdays: Four Seasons Doha. At Il Teatro diners can try the new lunch menu. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4494-8888.

Good Mood Business Lunch

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.

Express Lunch at Market 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 at Al Hubara

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Enjoy the new business lunch at Al Hubara. This delicious lunch includes a salad bar and dessert buffet for only QR 130 or main course and dessert buffet for only QR 145. For more information, call 4485-4556.

Express Lunch at Belgian Café

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Choose a two-course set menu for QR 85 per person, or three course set menu for QR 95 per person. Add three tasting brews to your menu for QR 15. From 12:30 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information, call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

80

Lunch Box

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Quick Bites Lunch Box consists of a healthy salad, a choice of sandwich, dessert, chips and a soft drink for QR 60. From 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com

Rushed for Time Business Lunch

Daily: Kempinski Doha. Select from the gourmet 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 email aroma.doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha

Wok Mee Business Lunch

Daily: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. For an Asian twist at lunch time, try the new business lunch menu. The three-course menu 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.

The Cellar Business Lunch

Daily: Oryx Rotana. Grab a quick bite and enjoy The Cellar’s three-course set menu, including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 85 per person, guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information, call 4402-3333.

Light Lunch Buffet at Flying Carpet

Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. The all-day dining restaurant combines modern design with live cooking stations and international cuisine. Light lunch QR 110 per person. Family discount on lunch and dinner buffets from Sundays till Wednesdays; for a group of 5 and above get 15% discount. On Wednesdays, women get a 30% discount on lunch and dinner buffet. For more information, call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

Business Lunch @ Figus

Sundays – Thursdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Choose your starter, main course and dessert, including coffee or tea from a selection of Italian dishes prepared by our Chef Augusto. QR 85 per person for a 2 course-menu or QR 110 for a 3-course menu. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 4445-5555.

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

SPORTS

Global Champions Tour

Thurs 5th – Sat 7th: Qatar Equestrian Foundation. A world class international show jumping event in which the top 30 to 50 riders in the world are invited to participate. For more information, email anne@globalchampionstour.com or visit www.globalchampionstour.com

Sealine Cross Country Rally

Sun 15th – Sat 21st: Sealine Resort. Cross-Country Rally, organized by the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), will play host to the third round of this year’s FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies and round two of the six-event FIM CrossCountry Rallies World Championship. For more information, visit www.circuitlosail.com

Salsa Intro

Tuesdays: Ramada Plaza. Learn the basics of one the hottest dances! Starts at 8:00 p.m.

For more information, call 5504-7010, email salsancandela@gmail.com or visit www.salsacandela.com

Qatar Match Racing Cup 2012

Tues 10th – Sat 14th: Doha Sailing Club. The event is organized by Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation. It is a grade-3 event in which teams from all over the world participate. Last year, a total of 14 teams came to Qatar. For more information, visit www.qmsf.com

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

Zumba Fitness

Mondays: InterContinental Doha.

Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze taking over the world. Fitness should be fun and that’s exactly what Zumba is. It is a mixture of latin and international music fused together to create a fun, dance party atmosphere burning between 400-1000 calories per hour. It’s suitable for all ages, shapes and fitness levels. So why not come along to a class and join in the party?

Mondays at 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. (QR 30 members, QR 40 non-members). For more information, please call 4484 4852.

81

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

™ The MotoGP

Lands At Losail As told to Jorge Granda

The much anticipated Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP™) is making its spectacular return to the racetrack at Losail International Circuit this month. QH gives you the scoop on the event’s highlights.

T

he Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP™) runs from the 5-8 of April, marking the event as the opening race of the MotoGP™ calendar. Grand Prix motorcycle racing refers to the premier category of motorcycle grand prix currently divided into three distinct classes: Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP™.

Ducati, Yamaha and Honda.

Established as a World Championship by the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) in 1949, MotoGP™ is now into its 63rd year. It is the oldest motorsports championship in the world and the premier class of three racing classes that take to the track on a typical Grand Prix weekend.

MotoGP™ is the top motorcycle racing world championship, an 18-race series visiting 14 countries, four continents and with pan-global television coverage. Nine nationalities of the world’s most skilled riders line a grid armed with cutting-edge motorcycle technology including prototype machinery fielded by three manufacturers;

Formerly labelled ‘500cc’, the championship underwent a change in 2002 with new technical regulations permitting the introduction of fourstroke machinery and increasing engine capacity to 990cc, thus becoming MotoGP™. From 2007 the rules were altered, limiting engine

82

capacity to 800cc and once again from 2012, setting the maximum engine displacement at 1000cc. MotoGP™ has been administrated by commercial rights owners Dorna Sports under the supervision of the FIM since 1992.

As well as the premier class there are also two ultra-competitive World Championship Grand Prix categories which form part of ‘MotoGP™’. The Moto3 (formerly 125cc) and Moto2 (formerly 250cc) World Championships have their own races at each Grand Prix, meaning that by the end of the season three new champions are crowned.

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS On a Grand Prix weekend there is a race in each of MotoGP™’s three categories Moto3™ – This new 4-stroke, 250cc, single-cylinder class replaces the 125cc GP category, which had its final run in 2011.

The maximum age for riders is 28, (25 for wild-card riders or those newly contracted and competing in a Moto3 for the first time) and the minimum age is 16 years.

Moto2™ – The Moto2™ class replaced the 250cc category from 2010. Honda is the sole engine supplier and Dunlop provides the tires. The bikes are powered by a 600cc four-stroke engine, producing around 140hp, and the design and construction of the chassis is free within the constraints of the FIM Grand Prix Technical Regulations. The main frame, swing-arm, fuel tank, seat and fairing/ bodywork from a non-prototype motorcycle may not be used. The minimum age for riders is 16.

MotoGP™ – The ultimate test for the finest talents in motorcycle racing, in which the maximum engine capacity is the aforementioned 1000cc (4-stroke engines) and the minimum age for riders is 18.

CLASSES PARTICIPATING - Moto3 - Moto2 - MotoGP™ TIME SCHEDULE  THURSDAY 5 APRIL 2012 13:45-14:30 National Superbike 18:00-18:40 Moto3TM 18:55-19:40 Moto2TM 19:55-20:40 MotoGPTM 20:55-21:35 Moto3TM 21:50-22:35 Moto2TM 22:50-23:20 National Superbike

In addition to this event there will be a support race. The circuit holds the 5th round of local competition, the Qatar International Road Racing Championship (QIRRCH).

Club VIP Village Tickets The Club VIP Village is a hospitality tent in Turn 10 at the track. This ticket includes the following services:

TICKET INFORMATION

- Live action throughout the weekend - Giant screens - Music - All-day appetizers - All-day non-alcoholic beverages - Exclusive car park close to the tent

Public Area - Grandstand Ticket In the main grandstand you will find giant screens where you can watch the action live. There’s also a gift shop to buy souvenir items you can bring home to friends or keep as mementos and the cafeteria is open for snacks and refreshments.

The main grandstand is the place to get a great view of the starting grid and finish line. This is also where you can see the podium ceremony.

VIP Village Tickets The VIP Village is in the hospitality area above the pit garages in the paddock. This ticket includes the following services - Excellent views - Paddock tour - Gourmet dinner - Non-alcoholic beverages and coffee bar - Official program - Privileged parking - VIP grandstand - Pit Lane walk - Service Road tour

Free Practic Free Practice 1 (40 min) Free Practice 1 (45 min) Free Practice 1 (45 min) Free Practice 2 (40 min) Free Practice 2 (45 min) Qualifying Practice

FRIDAY 6 APRIL 2012 13:30-13:50 National Superbike Warm Up 15:00 National Superbike Race 1 (15 laps) 16:45-17:15 Media BMW Safety Bikes Laps (TBC) 18:00-18:45 MotoGPTM Free Practice 2 (45 min) 19:00-19:40 Moto3TM Free Practice 3 (40 min) 19:55-20:40 Moto2TM Free Practice 3 (45 min) 20:55-21:40 MotoGPTM Free Practice 3 (45 min) 22:10 National Superbike Race 2 (15 laps)

TICKET PRICES Grandstand ticket (4 days) - QR 200 VIP Village ticket (1 day - Sunday) - QR 2550 VIP Village ticket (2 days – Saturday & Sunday) - QR 3250 Club VIP Village (3 days – Friday, Saturday, Sunday) - QR 2,500 For more information visit: www.motogp.com www.qmmf.com www.circuitlosail.com VENUE The Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar takes place at the Losail International Circuit, located on the way to Al-Khor (North Relief Road), 15 minutes away from West Bay. This event is organized by the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Losail International Circuit.

SATURDAY 7 APRIL 2012 17:00-17:45 VIP Village

Pit Lane Walk 18:00-18:40 Moto3TM 18:55-19:40 Moto2TM 19:55-20:55 MotoGPTM 21:20-21:40 Moto3TM 21:55-22:15 Moto2TM 22:20-22:50 BMW M Laps SUNDAY 8 APRIL 2012 17:00-17:45 VIP Village

Pit Lane Walk 18:00-18:20 MotoGPTM 19:00 Moto3TM 20:20 Moto2TM 22:00 MotoGPTM

Qualifying Practice (40 min) Qualifying Practice (45 min) Qualifying Practice (60 min) Warm Up (20 min) Warm Up (20 min)

Warm Up (20 min) Race (18 laps) Race (20 laps) Race (22 laps)

83

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

By Jorge Granda

Some of the best sailors in the world will be landing in Doha this month to take part in the fourth edition of the Qatar Match Racing Cup 2012. Doha’s beautiful April weather provides the teams with the best sailing conditions and the perfect setup to sail away into the deep ocean. QH has all the details on this exciting international competition.

T

he cold winter is finally over and it’s time to enjoy some nice sunny days and water- sport events. The Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation is staging the much anticipated Qatar Match Racing Cup 2012 starting Tuesday, April 10 until Saturday, April 14. It’s the perfect occasion to put on your nicest beach outfit and enjoy the most important sailing event of the year.

The international event was first staged in 2007 and is celebrating its fourth edition this year. An ever-growing number of sailors participating over the years has positioned the Qatar Match Racing Cup as one of the prime sailing events in the region. More the 13 teams from Bahrain, Estonia, Russia, Switzerland, New Zealand and Qatar are expected to compete in this year’s .

The Qatar Match racing Cup 2012 promises to be a fierce competition – particularly between Estonia and the Russian teams according to Captain A. R. Arshad, technical advisor of the Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation. So bring your friends and family and an extra bottle of suncreen – this event is not to be missed.

84

Schedule of Events Match Racing Cup - 2012 Sunday/ Monday 08-09 Apr 12

09:00-17:00 Clinic by Mr. Wayne Boberg

Tuesday 10 Apr 12

08:00:00 AM Race Office Opens 09:00-17:00 09:00 – 12:00

BOXES Event Qatar Match Racing Cup 2012

01:00:00 PM

Dates Tuesday, April 10 until Saturday, April 14

14:00 – 16:00

Venue Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation near the Marriott Hotel

Wednesday 11:00 – 11 Apr 12 16:00

Course Windward/leeward with starboard rounding, finishing downwind.

Thursday 12 Apr 12

11:00 – Racing 16:00 Racing

Friday 13 Apr 12

11:00 – 16:00

Racing

Saturday 14 Apr 12

11:00 – 16:00

Racing

Prize money First Prize Second Prize Third Prize 4th Prize

$6,000 USD $3,000 USD $2,000 USD $1,000 USD

Classes participating Match Racing is conducted using

01:30:00 PM

06:30:00 PM Racing

07:00:00 PM Closing Ceremony Sunday 15 Apr 12

Official Departure Day

SPORTS

T h e 18 t h H e ir A p p a r e n t C u p

K ic k s O ff

By QH Staff

One of the biggest football events of the season is taking place this April and the four best teams of the Qatar Stars League will be battling for the coveted title, prize money and ultimate football glory. So put on your team colours, head out to the stands and don’t miss out on a single goal!

The Heir Apparent Cup First staged during the 1994-95 season and going strongly ever since, four clubs in the Qatar Stars League will play against each other in three games. The winner of the league will play against the top four finishing teams of the QSL will play against each other, the first placed team against the fourth place team and the second place team will come up against the third placed team.

The winners of the two games will then compete in the finals.

Old rivalries are re-ignited as the prestigious tournament has a rich history of classic clashes and dangerous derbys. The coveted cup competition is also famous for it’s list of long standing past champions such as AlSadd and Al Rayyan, who are both in with a chance of competing in the tournament again this year. Current champions Al Gharafa have first got to win more points to finish in the top four of the QSL for any chance of playing to maintain their title as HH Heir Apparent Cup Champions.

Semi-Finals will be held on April 21-22 with the Final played on April 26. Keep up with the latest news about the HH 18th Heir Apparent Cup and follow the QSL standings and teams’ progress on www.qsl.com.qa, Facebook and Twitter.

Team Details: Which of these six will make it to the top four?

Lekhwiya: One of the newest clubs in the league, Lekhwiya was established in 2010 under the name of Al-Shorta Doha.

They won their first league title with QSL last year and in 2010 made it to the final of the Sheikh Jassem Cup.

86

El Jaish: Another new team to reach the rankings of the QSL, El Jaish Sports Club is the official football club of the Qatar Armed Forces. Founded in 2007 they finished at the top of the second division last year on 40 points and got promoted into the QSL. Al Wakrah: With their home base at Al Wakrah Stadium, the club held the Heir Apparent Cup title back in 1999 when it was known as the Crown Prince Cup. They have also won four Sheikh Jassem Cup titles as well as this season’s Qatar Stars Cup QNB Championship.

Al Rayyan: This club has been around since 1967 and its football division has a long championship history. Having won numerous QSL titles dating back to the 1980s Al Rayyan have won the Heir Apparent Cup three times in 1995, 1996 and 2001.

Al-Sadd: Nicknamed ‘Al-Zaeem’ or ‘The Boss’, Al-Sadd is the second oldest team competing in this year’s Heir Apparent Cup round-up. Starting small, the club was founded by four students in 1969, winning the very first Qatar League championship in 1972. They’ve also won five Heir Apparent Cup titles over the decades.

SPORTS

Al-Gharafa: The third oldest team in the QSL Al-Gharafa has deep roots in the history of Qatar football. Established in 1979, the club won last year’s Heir Apparent Cup and has won first place in the Qatari League seven times since 1992.

Ticket Sales Tickets go on sale across Qatar on Saturday, April, 2 at Villaggio Mall, City Center Mall, Landmark Mall, The Mall and Souq Waqif. Tickets range in price from QR 10 to QR 50. The stadium will be divided into different sections – a family section, QSL-football family section and a general section. Log into: www.qsl.com. qa.qa for more details.

mmari

her and Sadd Al-Sha

is, Hamed Shami Za

hman Elass From left to right: Ot

Heir Apparent Cup Winners

By Year •1995 : •1996 : •1997 : •1998 : •1999 : •2000 : •2001 : •2002 : •2003 : •2004 : •2005 : •2006 : •2007 : •2008 : •2009 : •2010 : •2011 :

Al Rayyan Club 1-0 Al-Arabi Al Rayyan Club 2-0 Al-Wakra Al-Arabi 0-0 Al Rayyan Club Al-Sadd 3-2 Al-Arabi Al-Wakra 2-1 Al-Ittihad Al-Ittihad 0-0 Al Rayyan Club Al Rayyan Club 5-0 Al-Arabi Qatar SC 2-0 Al-Ittihad Al-Sadd 2-0 Al-Ittihad Qatar SC 2-1 Al-Sadd Al-Khor 2-1 Al-Gharrafa Al-Sadd 2-1 Qatar SC Al-Sadd 2-1 Al-Gharrafa Al-Sadd 1-0 Al-Gharrafa Qatar SC 0-0 Al Rayyan Club Al-Gharrafa 5-0 Al-Arabi Al-Gharrafa 2-0 Al-Arabi

17th HH Heir Apparent Cup

87

SPORT LISTINGS

SPA PROMOTIONS Royal Wrap

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Grand Hyatt Doha.

With the arrival of the spring season, your body needs a deep and efficient treatment applied by the expert hands of therapists. After black sand exfoliation, a rich mask of mineral spirulina algae will relax and detoxify every cell of your body. While wrapped, you will enjoy a scalp massage followed by a cleansing shower. Finally, a restorative pearl body balm will be applied with delicate massage movements. Total duration of the treatment: 1h 30min. Price: QR 700.

For more information, call 4448-1056 or email jaula.spa@hyatt.com

Doha Marriott Spa

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Marriott Doha.

Receive 15% discount with every body wrap (Seaweed, Thalasso or Coffee) and facial treatment combined on the same day. Spend QR 1000 or more on treatments per person on the same day and receive a complimentary Prescriptive Facial valued at QR 330. For more information, call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

Detox to Relax

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Ritz-Carlton Doha.

For the ultimate luxurious purification, enjoy 75 minutes of pure bliss. Start off with a body scrub (choose from orange, honey or bamboo body scrub), then follow with a body wrap to detoxify and remove all impurities. Enrich the whole experience with a complimentary nourishing hot-oil scalp treatment where pure aromatherapy oil blends nourish the scalp and stimulates hair vitality, by massaging directly into hair and scalp. Price QR 600 (normally QR 800).

For more information, call 4484-8000.

Hammam with Contouring Body Mask

Sun 1st – Mon 30th: Sharq Village & Spa. This cleansing treatment starts while you’re in the steam with an application of Moroccan soap, follow by a body scrub using a mitt glove. You will then be wrapped with a contouring mask that helps to tone and firm your skin. Finish off this treatment with a body massage to relieve stress and tension. 1 hr 45mins / QR 750.

For more information, 4425-6999 or email reservation-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com

Ladies Day at The Bay Club

Tuesdays and Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Book a 50-minute massage for ladies and get free entry to the pool and beach. From 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. 25% discount on all food and beverage for female Bay Club members).

Entrance fee for ladies QR 50, gents QR 250, a couple QR 200. For more information, please call 4484-4852.

CLASSES Fitness Class Specials

Thurs 1st – Sat 31st: Ritz-Carlton Doha.

Renew and re-charge with a qualified and passionate team of fitness professionals.

The Fitness Club will surely become your health refuge at the end of the day. While working out, become energized by the superb views of the Marina. Pay for five fitness classes (excluding yoga) and enjoy two complimentary. For more information, call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com

Abs and Stretching

Mondays and Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Stay firm and fit by training your core every week! Starts at 8:15 a.m.

Complimentary for members; QR 75 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com

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

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- weigh ts, aero-steps, aerokickboxing 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

Ballroom Dancing

Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays: 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 88

SPORT LISTINGS

Circuit Training

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. Circuit training is widely regarded as the best all-round form of group exercise. This session is not for the faint of heart; however, if you enjoy a tough workout in a friendly atmosphere, then this what you’ve been looking for. Starts at 6:00 p.m. QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non–members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com

Circuit Training

Mondays – Saturdays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. First session at 4:00 p.m. and second session at 8:00 p.m. QR 50 per session including use of swimming pool.

For more information, call 4496-6410.

Karate

Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays: IAID. Shoto Kan, a karate style developed from various martial arts is tackles Karate basics, forms or patterns of moves and sparring. Affiliated with the Qatar Karate Federation, the course is open for kids and adults. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org

Kickfit

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. A highenergy martial arts calorie burner, Kickfit combines boxing, karate, Muay Thai and Capoiera into a fun, yet challenging, total body workout. Using the shadow boxing format, this class is great for all levels of fitness wanting to burn fat and tone muscles quickly. Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. QR 30 for members and QR 40 for non–members. For more information, call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com

Pilates

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Yama Yoga Studios. Pilates classes help to build flexibility, strength and coordination throughout the whole body. Starts at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and 10:00 a.m. on Thursdays. QR 60. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com

SPORT LISTINGS

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

Spinning (Interval)

Tuesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Crank up your energy with this energizing exercise and start losing all those unwanted pounds.

Starts at 5:30 p.m. Complimentary for members; QR 75 for non-members. For more information, call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.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

Swimming

Wednesdays – Mondays: MÜvenpick 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.

Yoga Ashtanga 1

Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Ashtanga 1 (Level 1/2) has been designed to introduce students to the Ashtanga practice.

Sundays and Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. and Fridays 10:00 a.m. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com

90

Open Beginner Yoga

Yoga

Open Vinyasa Yoga

Zumba

Sundays and Tuesdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Level 1 classes are suitable for anyone interested in beginning yoga but who still wants to experience the challenge of a flow yoga class. Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 60 per class.

For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com

Sundays to Tuesdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Experience level 2/3 classes, suitable for people who are looking for a physical challenge, as well as deep relaxation. Starts at 8:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. QR 75 and QR 60 per class.

For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com

Prenatal Yoga

Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton.

Prenatal Yoga classes help women experience more comfortable and mindful pregnancies. Sundays at 10:00 a.m. (Ritz), Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m.(Ritz) QR 75 per class and Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. (Yama) QR 60 per class. For more information, visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com

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 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org

Saturdays to Mondays and Wednesdays: IAID. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze and is spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. For more information, call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org

ACTIVITIES & CLUBS Bike Riding

The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 www.qatarbowlingcenter.net Gondolania Bowling Center 4403-9807 www.gondolania.com Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162

SPORT LISTINGS

Golf

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

Horse Riding

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

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Centre) 4483-9162 Gondolania Ice Arena (Villagio) 4403-9807 www.gondolania.com

Sailing

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

Swimming

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

Tennis & Squash

Oryx Rotana Doha Serves Up Sensational Easter Brunch The hunt is on for the best Easter brunch and all roads lead to Oryx Rotana Doha.

Celebrate this Easter holiday with an ‘eggstravagant’ Easter Brunch at Choices Restaurant, on Sunday 8th April from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

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

For reservations or more information, please contact Tel: +974 4402 3333 or email to oryx.hotel@rotana.com

P.O. Box 29922, Doha, Qatar, T: +974 4402 3333, F: +974 4402 3300, oryx.hotel@rotana.com

rotana.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Guerlain Paris and Alfardan Properties enter into a long-term partnership with the birth of Guerlain Alfardan Spa at Alfardan Towers.

A

lfardan Properties has announced that it has entered into a long term partnership with Guerlain Paris that has resulted in bringing to Doha the first Guerlain Spa in the Middle East – Guerlain Alfardan Spa. Established as a brand synonymous with luxury and excellence, Alfardan Properties has been able to successfully capitalize on its extensive experience and expanding professional expertise to pursue new and innovative projects that are in line with the changing dynamics of Qatar’s luxury market such as its introduction of Guerlain Alfardan Spa located at the residential building of the Alfardan Towers in the West Bay area. Guerlain Alfardan Spa offers more than 60 health and beauty therapies 92

that nurture the skin, body and well-being; providing a distinctly unique and exceptional spa experience in Doha’s most prominent business and entertainment district.

The spa’s personalized services include a systematic analysis and precise skin diagnosis to tailor a therapy according to each customer’s needs and expectations.

Guerlain Paris, which is part of the LVMH group, opened its first ‘Institut de Beauté’ in 1939 at 68 Avenue des Champs Elysées and is internationally well-known for its exclusive facial massage techniques and customized therapies. Guerlain’s unique philosophy places the spa above all other spas with its focus on transforming every treatment into a unique and personal occasion specifically customized. This clearly translates the essence of the Guerlain experience, the perfect union of effective know-how and aesthetic expertise.

The first spa for Guerlain in the Middle East will be located at the Alfardan Towers Doha 39th floor with breathtaking views of the Doha Corniche. The Guerlain Alfardan Spa presents comprehensive health and wellness care services in an environment that integrates conventional and holistic methods with a definitive sensorial experience.

The spa also offers a beautiful selection from luxurious perfumery products and services such as jewels of make-up and the prestigious lines of Guerlain fragrances.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Victory Assaf, Guerlain Alfardan Spa Manager, is proud to introduce the first Guerlain Spa to Doha. Victory, knowing well the needs of Doha consumers is confident that the Guerlain Alfardan Spa will offer at last the ultimate in beauty that spa clientele are expecting.

Guerlain Alfardan Spa offers a wide range of treatments for customers, including Massage Therapies, Facial Therapies,

Hand & Foot Therapies, Body Therapies, Body Refreshers, Men’s Therapies, and a host of spa additions.

for a complete sense of exclusivity.

Females also can enjoy exclusive ladies hours with their children, enjoying their time at Alfardan Towers Kid’s Club.

Another main component found at Guerlain Alfardan Spa is the customized fitness sessions suited for each body type, analyzed by professional male and female Fitness trainers who will not only offer training packages and unique weight loss programs, but also one-to-one sessions

Guerlain Alfardan Spa hosts a variety of pampering and make-over services which complement the body, along with facial therapies and treatments, such as luxury hair services, hand and foot treatments and Vichy showers just to name a few.

93

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Alfardan Properties Certification reaffirms company’s commitment to develop property solutions that are luxurious and deliver optimum value for money

awarded ISO 9001:2008 certification on Quality Management System

Alfardan Properties Management Team and Staff

A

lfardan Properties, an innovative leader in Qatar’s real estate industry, has announced that it has recently been awarded ISO 9001:2008 certification on QMS (Quality Management System), reaffirming the company’s commitment to quality project development, leasing and property management services. All eight departments of Alfardan Properties – Leasing, Marketing & Communications, Project Development, Engineering & Maintenance, Finance & Administration, Hospitality & Services, Safety & Security, Facilities Management Audit & Compliance – headed by their respective managers were involved in the rigid certification process, which was completed from April to November 2011. The certification was awarded to Alfardan Properties by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance, a world-renowned certifying body, who

94

conducted the final audit to ensure that the management system meets the requirements of ISO 9001:2008 standards.

Throughout the certification process, Alfardan Properties management and staff conducted numerous brainstorming sessions with the goal to streamline and improve its management system and documentation procedures while properly training all members of the organization on the benefits of the ISO certification.

The certification is in line with Alfardan Properties’ strategy of encouraging a team-oriented approach on all business processes and to focus on the best interest of tenants, stakeholders, staff, contractors and management. Alfardan Properties further revealed that it will conduct a regular review of policies and ensure that employees undergo regular

competency training to ensure continuous suitability towards the business approach and the Quality Management System; keeping its track record of providing 360-degree turnkey solutions that encompass project development, leasing and property management.

Omar Alfardan, President, Alfardan Properties, said: “Quality excellence and innovation has always been the core objective of all our operations. The ISO 9001:2008 certification is therefore an important reaffirmation of our commitment to quality and our continuing pursuit of excellence through a globally recognized Quality Management System. Alfardan Properties has held true to its brand promise and continues to explore more innovative ways to deliver quality-driven luxury real estate solutions and valueadded services in light of the evolving

SPECIAL PROMOTION needs of our customers and changing dynamics in the regional markets. It also adds momentum to our efforts to continuously innovate and set new standards of excellence within the marketplace, which help maintain and enhance our reputation as the property market leader in Qatar.”

Muhibullah Mani, COO, Alfardan Properties, said, “The ISO 9001:2008 certification clearly demonstrates Alfardan Properties’ commitment to offer unique residential and commercial property solutions that are both luxurious and deliver optimum value for money. The ISO 9001:2008 certification certainly positions us at Alfardan Properties strongly so as to realize our core mission which is to satisfy the needs of our tenants and exceed their expectations. This also shows that Alfardan Properties is not just a real estate company; as Alfardan Properties provides its tenants a unique living experience through holistic turnkey solutions handled by true professionals and experts for each domain.”

Basem Obaid, Area Manager, Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance, said: “ISO 9001 standard for quality management systems has become an international framework for managing and assessing organizations against accepted management best practices, to help them achieve their objectives and to better serve their customers. We are delighted to award Alfardan Properties with ISO 9001 certification and we believe this is the beginning of a long-term partnership where we work together to continually improve Alfardan Properties management system to meet and exceed the ever changing needs of their customers.”

Established in 1990, Alfardan Properties has dominated Qatar’s premium and luxury property segment for the past 22 years.

Recognized as a brand synonymous with luxury and excellence, Alfardan Properties is part of the continuously expanding Alfardan Group of Companies, Qatar’s most successful conglomerate over the past 50 years known for its unyielding commitment to provide the Qatari market with the finest

products and services. Alfardan Properties has been behind several iconic landmarks in Qatar such as the Alfardan Towers, a fusion of residential and commercial amenities in a luxurious development; Kempinski Residences & Suites, which has been credited for establishing new benchmarks for luxury residences.

Adhering to its core business values of integrity, trust and premium service, Alfardan Properties has also been involved in many of Qatar’s prestigious residential and commercial destinations, including Alfardan Plaza, Alfardan Centre, Al Sadd Residence, Al Jazeera Building and One Porto Arabia on ‘The Pearl Qatar,’ an iconic man-made island; not to mention Laguna Beach, the exclusive villa compound in the West Bay Lagoon; and the residential Alfardan Gardens villa compound. Building on the success of its business interests, Alfardan Properties has ventured into a new domain with the creation of a new high-end spa at Alfardan Towers “Guerlain Alfardan Spa”, introducing a wide selection of products from the renowned Guerlain brand.

, Obaid, Mr.Omar Alfardan, Muhibullah Mani From left to right: K.C. Dalal, A.R. Tebbal, Basem

95

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Celebrating Peruvian Gastronomy!

The Peruvian Embassy and the Diplomatic Club partner to bring to Qatar two of the best chefs from Lima.

T

‘Our Peruvian Cuisine to the World’ in 2005 and hosted multiple cooking TV shows such as ‘Ohdiosas’ and ‘Utilisima’ in the U.S.A. In 2010, he opened his own restaurant Ampuero, featuring Peruvian fusion cuisine

This celebration of Peruvian gastronomy will take place in the Diplomatic Club’s traditional Arabic courtyard: Al Baraha. The buffet will feature some of the most typical Peruvian dishes.

Chef David Fernandez A graduate from Cordon Bleu Peru, Chef David Fernandez has gained experience cooking around the world. While in the United Sates, he worked for such internationally renowned brands as the Ritz- Carlton.

he Peruvian embassy, in its continuous effort to promote the richness and diversity of Peruvian culture will come together with the Diplomatic Club and KLM to bring you the best of Peruvian cuisine from April 11-20, at 7:00 p.m. onwards - daily.

For this very special occasion, the Peruvian embassy is pleased to welcome Chefs Javier Ampuero Figueroa and David Fernandez, two of Peru’s most renowned chefs. They will be present to answer questions on the history and preparation of traditional Peruvian dishes.

Chef Javier Ampuero Figueroa Chef Javier Ampuero Figueroa focused on bringing Peruvian gastronomy to the forefront through media and publications.

He co-authored the acclaimed cookbook 98

Facts about Peruvian cuisine Peru has an amazing cuisine that has evolved from both local and immigrant traditions. Foods that were prepared by ancient civilizations are still enjoyed today, while typical Peruvian dishes also boast of European, African and Asian influences.

Peru’s geography yields diverse ingredients: abundant seafood from the coast, tropical fruits from the jungle and unique varieties of grains and potatoes from the Andes, as potatoes are Peruvian in origin.

The extensive cultural exchange that

occurred throughout the 900-year Arab presence in Al-Andalus (present-day Spain and Portugal), is still evident today in Peruvian cuisine. The use of ingredients such as rice, sugar, citrus fruits, and almonds brought by Arabs to Al-Andalus are essential to every Peruvian kitchen.

AIR FRANCE - KLM: Fly non-stop Doha-Amsterdam-Doha with KLM from March 25, 2012.

A favourite among locals and expats alike, The Diplomatic Club is a private membership club established in 2000. The Club offers both private and corporate memberships to high executives. It has a convention centre, a Royal tent, four dining options among which Al Sayyad and Le Grill, a 200m private lagoon-shaped beach, a spa, a sport club with all recreational facilities (tennis, squash, swimming pool, unisex and women’s-only gym, workout studio), a water sport club (water-skiing, wakeboarding) and a beauty centre.

For information about the Diplomatic Club visit: www.thediplomaticclub.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Give It

A Swing

The Doha Golf Club boasts two immaculate golf courses; one of which is home to the annual European Tour Commercialbank Qatar Masters and the other is a fully floodlit nine-hole course. But the Doha Golf Club is not only a golfing venue, it’s also a recreation facility where you can spend a great time with your friends and family and get a taste of the best fish and chips in Doha.

Designed by Peter Harradine, one of the world’s leading golf course architects and unveiled in 1997, the 7,421-yard 18-hole Championship Course and floodlit nine-hole Academy Course provide a variety of challenges that will appeal to both the novice golfer and the seasoned professional.

9th and 18th greens, creating a perfect setting to grab a bite to eat or socialize with friends. Open weekdays from 10:00 to midnight and weekends from 6:00 to midnight with daily happy hour promotions.

CONFERENCE FACILITIES

As soon as you enter the Arabian-style clubhouse with its marble interiors and outdoor terraces, one can feel the luxurious comfort of home. It features handmade gypsum, traditional artifacts and solid teak doors imported from Thailand and hand-engraved in Doha. Beautifully crafted marble, internal waterfalls and a central fountain create a cool and welcoming atmosphere.

OUTLETS The clubhouse’s first floor houses the Oasis Lounge, where members and their golfing guests can relax after their game and enjoy a snack or light meal in a friendly and comfortable surrounding, overlooking the stunning views of the 18-hole Championship Course.

The Al Majlis Suite The facility offers extensive services for organizations wishing to host small corporate functions, meetings, product launches and seminars. This stylish meeting room offers comfortable seating for up to 50 people with an array of audiovisual tools to satisfy any groups’ requirements.

The Gallery

Spikes Lounge

The multifunctional room can host 50 to 350 people for any function requirement. Only here can you experience the possibility of holding an event that offers views of a superbly landscaped golf course and the glistening water of the lake on the 18th hole.

The lounge is legendary for its upbeat yet relaxing atmosphere.

Idyllically located on the Clubhouse’s ground floor, this fusion between bar and club portrays modern as well as chic interiors and an outdoor terrace overlooking the magnificent vista of the

During the cooler months Doha Golf Club is equipped for outdoor dining. The Greens, a grass area adjacent to the clubhouse can accommodate up to 1500 people. There is no better way to celebrate or entertain than under the stars.

100

SPECIAL PROMOTION

The Chalet

Membership

This first floor venue overlooking the majestic lake is situated between the 9th and 18th holes of the Championship Course. The Chalet can accommodate up to 120 people for a variety of functions from meetings to small wedding parties. Fairways offers a superb venue for business meetings, lunches and dinners, with he small room allowing for privacy and intimacy.

Membership at Qatar’s only grass Golf Club is in high demand and therefore currently limited. Join the waiting list now to experience socializing in the members-only Oasis Lounge, discounts in the Pro Shops and food outlets, playing in members-only tournaments and many more exclusive benefits.

Golf Academy – Lessons

There are various membership categories available and you will be sure to find something that suits your needs.

The award winning Golf Academy offers professional coaching, a simulator lounge, coaching studio and a SAM putting lab. The Academy brings together a team of dedicated PGA teaching professionals with a wealth of golfing knowledge and experience from some of the world’s most exclusive golf clubs. The Academy aims to help golfers by using this professional knowledge, hi-tech equipment, good communication skills and the simplest and most effective teaching methods, making it easy and fun to learn the game.

Fill in an application form found at www.dohagolfclub.com and email it to marketing@dohagolfclub.com or fax it to 4483-4790.

The lush turf of the driving range covers a large area of 375 yards and is over 200 yards wide. The teaching area is reserved for private lessons with our PGA Professionals and the range is open to visitors and members alike.

Contact Details: West Bay, PO Box 13530, Doha, Qatar Telephone: 00974 4496-0777 Fax: 00974 4483-4790 Email: info@dohagolfclub.com Website: www.dohagolfclub.com

For more information or to book a lesson call 4496-0755.

Information for non-members Non-members are welcome to use all the facilities of the golf club daily. The Oasis Lounge and Championship Course on the weekends are restricted to members only.

101

QH SENSATIONS

The Art of Living

LIVE EXPERIENCE TOUCH LOOK

QH SENSATIONS

The

Healing Touch

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

He’s helped celebrities, CEOs and average Joes; and now he’s come to Qatar. QH taps into the current of holistic practitioner Paul Emery during his recent residency at the Six Senses Spa in the Sharq Village and Spa. With a proven track record of helping clients rewire their body’s response to anxiety, stress, pain, phobias and addictions through Quantum Emotional and Physical Release, Emery shows us how it’s all hands on.

W

Paul Emery

hen I hear that Paul Emery is coming to Doha as a visiting practitioner at the Six Senses Spa I know I have to see him and explore his brand of healing.

Emery is one of those rare people who well and truly practices what he preaches. Diagnosed with a debilitating social phobia during his teens, he has spent the majority of his professional life looking for a way to manage his disorder and help others caught in their own struggles.

In the hope that exposing himself to the situations that caused him the most anxiety would desensitize him, Emery took on jobs that required him to stand up in public: working in a bustling, crowded casino and then as an English teacher. Nothing helped.

one-to-one conversations….it could be anything like that. I was extremely shy as a lot of teenagers are and they say ‘oh you’ll get over it’ but I never did.”

Thought Field Therapy. He also uses the principles of kinesiology and Shiatsu to further hone in on areas of the body where energy fields may be out of balance due to environmental toxins or food allergies, contributing to a host of physical malaises.

“Basically what feelings It wasn’t until he began pursuing studies in holistic are is just therapies that he discovered the path leading him to his own unique healing modality of Quantum blocked energy Emotional and Physical Release (QEPR). Working the most highly-respected holistic teachers and “I read a lot of self-help books: psychology, hypnosis in the body,” with professionals around the world, Emery trained and and all those kinds of things and I made myself fully qualified in the areas of Neuro-Linguistic hypnosis tapes that I left under my pillow when I was he says. became Programming, Emotional Freedom Technique and a kid. The phobia was that I was anxious in public and

104

QH SENSATIONS He explains that QEPR is an amalgam of the best of the techniques he has learned over the course of his career, with the ‘quantum’ referring to a rush of energy (think a quantum leap), that accompanies the release from emotional and physical symptoms.

“Basically what feelings are is just blocked energy in the body,” he says. “Of course we get angry and we get sad, but it’s generally an appropriate reaction and not to the extreme. But holding on to that sadness or that anger or that uncontrollable fear, then it’s a blockage.”

At the core of Paul’s treatment is the Meridian Energy System used in Chinese medicine and acupuncture practices. “The meridians are 5,000 years old and recognized by the World Health Organization, so it’s not one of these airy-fairy techniques, although a lot of people still don’t understand what it is or why it works,” he says.

Realist or not, with the rate of success Emery has had with his clients, coupled with international accolades including the 2010 AsiaSpa Award for Holistic Treatment of the Year, his method continues to prove its benefits. I leave my session with Paul feeling calmer than I have in weeks and as I write this I won’t say I haven’t had moments of chocolate-coated weakness, but they are becoming more sporadic and with weakening intensity.

I ask Paul if, looking back at the boy he was at 14, he could ever imagine how far he’d come. “It’s amazing,” he says. “I got over my own problem after so many years -- you can imagine what that was like. It’s nice being able to travel the world to places like this because I really want to help people and show them it’s possible. “

To explain it simply, the human body has several main meridian channels of energy or ‘chi’ running throughout it. Emotional and physical symptoms such as addictions, pain or anxiety correlate to a place where our energy has become blocked. In my case, my stress and anxiety often make me feel nauseous, throwing my eating habits out of alignment. I will shun healthy, regular meals during the day and binge on junk food at night.

As it happens, today I have a chocolate bar in my bag - my ‘breakfast’ on the run and one of my most insatiable cravings. Paul asks me to hold the chocolate bar in my hands, open the wrapper and smell it. The response is Pavlovian and immediate: I must eat it. Closing my eyes Paul asks me on a scale of one to ten how bad is my craving; I reply that it’s an eight. For the next five minutes he forcefully taps the various acupressure points on my body, particularly the meridian channel below the eye sockets which flows energy towards the stomach –the root of my problems.

I have to admit that I’m skeptical; but after five minutes I do notice a slight difference. I can’t seem to smell the chocolate as strongly, even though it’s right under my nose and is starting to melt down my fingers. After ten more minutes of tapping and calculating where my craving levels are at, (they seem to be going down), Paul asks me to open my eyes and follow his finger-tip as it moves up and down. Then to gauge the success of the treatment he asks me to take a bite.

It’s at this point where things get very strange; I bite into the chocolate bar and chew….and I can’t taste it. I begin to laugh because I don’t know how else to react. I will my taste buds to react to the gooey caramel and sticky chocolate, but to no effect.

What I’m experiencing is similar to having a head cold where your olfactory senses become dulled, making it difficult to taste food.

This was not the outcome I was expecting and Paul can see that I’m taken aback.

“That’s why I like to test it,” he says. “Is it gone forever? I don’t know. It’s certainly gone for now, and maybe you won’t enjoy it as much as you thought you did in the future. So it’s not deprivation, I’m not forcing you not to have it, but once we’ve rebalanced your energy you may say, ‘Oh I didn’t want it anymore anyway’”.

ABOUT SIX SENSES SPA Paul Emery will be back at the Six Senses Spa November 1st -14th, 2012 Price: QR 999 for a 50-minute session Phone No: 4425-6999 Website: www.sixsenses.com

www.quantumepr.com Email: paul@quantumepr.com/ reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com

105

QH SENSATIONS

Serenity

Now

By Ashlee Starratt and Susanna Wolfe Photography by Jessie Palanca

Nestled away on the 15th floor of the Fraser Suites Hotel is one of the property’s best-kept secrets: its spa. Small, cozy and intimate, adjacent to a spacious gym and roof-top pool boasting unparalleled views of the city, the Fraser Suites spa is a sanctuary in the sky. This month QH tried the reflexology treatment and the full-body massage to decompress and de-stress. Just what the doctor ordered.

Ashlee Tests Her Reflexes I’ve never been to a spa. In a city like Doha I am wel l aware this puts me in the minority, the incredulous looks from my colleagues are all the confirmation I need. So it’s with as much curiosity as it is excitement that I arrive at the Fraser Suites Hotel spa, ready for what awaits.

The space is inviting and small, only two rooms each with a private shower, sauna area and esthetics space. My esthetician is a woman named Hanen who is from Tunisia, having trained for seven years in the traditional massage techniques of the region. She starts by scrubbing my feet in a bath of hot water to remove any excess skin cells. I apologize for the state of my he els, having only had my first pedicure two weeks before arriving in Qatar and things are looking a bit rough, no pun intended.

106

For those needing a crash course in reflexology, its premise is that different areas of the hands and feet relate to corresponding areas of the body.

For example, the top of the toes are linked to the brain, the mid-range of the arches to the kidneys and the heel the pelvis and sciatic nerve. (See diagram for more details.) By applying pressure to these different points it is said to be helpful in relieving ailments associated with a particular organ. I am curious to see which area of my body is bogging me down and I lie down on the table and let Hanen do her work.

I instantly feel like I want to fall asleep; the music is a variety of Japanese shamisen and soft African tribal in strumentals that create an ambiance that lulls me. Hanen drapes a warm cloth over my eyes and after that I’m pretty much out for the count.

QH SENSATIONS If there’s one thing people who don’t have massages very often, or at all, should know: they can sometimes hurt.

It shouldn’t be an overwhelming pain, but sometimes working out the kinks and stress knots can be a bit painful. For me, my tender spot is around my ankles and towards the bottom of my arches.

Hanen is diligent in checking in to see if the pressure is too much or if I need more.

She spends a good thirty minutes working on each foot, massaging all the way up to my knees, working in a moisturizing Cuccio lotion that is long over-due on my cold-weather-damaged Canadian skin. The experience is both vigorous and relaxing and afterwards my shoes feel a bit bigger than they did when I arrived, leading me to believe my feet were less swollen after Hanen’s treatment.

I ask her what the results of my session are and she tells me that I carry the bulk of my tension in the balls of my feet, which correspond to my arms and shoulders, and also in the lower part of the inside arch which aligns with my bladder. I take it as a sign to stop hunching at my computer and drink more water during the day. After the session is over I leave with that foggy feeling of relaxation, calming me enough to face the rest of the work-day without any nervous breakdowns.

Susanna Finds Her Zen I’m feeling really rough and have woken up with an excruciating pain in my neck so I’m looking forward to some relaxation and being pampered. The room I’m led into is almost dark except for a few tea candles; very calming, just what I was hoping for.

I’m having a one-hour full body massage with Hanen, the Tunisian therapist. She has trained for seven years and I can tell, her hands feel very experienced on my skin.

The oil she’s using is Clarins Body Oil and is absolute luxury (and very expensive to buy!)

After the treatment, I feel so much better and ready to deal with whatever my day is going to throw at me. I’m given a cup of tea and time to regroup. As I’m leaving I notice there’s a kids’ corner outside where I could have left my daughter, free of charge, while I was having my moment of serenity! Perfect, I will be back!

FRASER SUITES SPA Prices: QR 400 for one 60-minute full-body relaxing massage

QR 350 for one 60-minute reflexology foot massage Phone No: 4442-4372 or 4424-3418 Email: spa.doha@frasershospitality.com

107

QH SENSATIONS brittle. Also ask the doctors and other medical experts who believe that vitamin D plays a crucial role in the prevention of cancer. A 2007 research study by the North American Cancer Health Center concluded that the sunshine vitamin could drastically cut down the risk of colon and breast cancer. Not surprisingly then the study states that, “reviewers recommend a vitamin D dose that is far above recommended level.”

“Findings show that vitamin D deficiency is linked to many, many things that you normally wouldn’t even think about,” says Dora J. Stadler, professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College (WLCC) in Qatar. A lack of vitamin D is precisely what varied medical conditions like osteoporosis, high blood pressure, asthma and even multiple sclerosis have in common.

Most importantly, the vitamin is essential for bone formation and maintenance of bone density through calcium absorption.

The Deficiency

By Munazza Sayed

It is health that is wealth and not gold or silver, goes a proverb. But a disturbing discovery made by doctors at Hamad Medical Corporation shows that gold could indeed be the ultimate key to good health.

The rheumatologic survey concluded that a staggering 90% of the respondents were deficient in vitamin D. QH finds out why.

Q

atar is abundantly blessed with the most important vitamin D source: golden sunshine. As per statistics, if you’re reading this article there’s a high chance that you either suffer from a vitamin deficiency without realizing it, or at least know of someone who is severely vitamin deficient. But what can a lack of vitamin D possibly do to your body?

Children are particularly susceptible— the dreaded deficiency may be the underlying cause of childhood obesity, diabetes or bone deformities, like bow-shaped legs. In North America alone, statistics point out that a staggering 60 to 80 percent of the population suffers from the D deficiency. This is all understandable though, considering that there is insufficient sunshine for most of the year in the western hemisphere.

But why Qatar? “My best educated guess is that there is a lack of people going out in the sunshine. It’s just too darn hot!” exclaims an osteopenia patient.

Ali A. Sultan, doctor of immunology, agrees, “I think people do go out but the way they travel hinders their exposure to the sun.” For example, travelling in a car with tinted glass or not walking and cycling enough. Surprisingly, despite being a medical expert, when Dr. Sultan measured his vitamin level three years ago, “it was just at the level of the lower limit of normal. And I was shocked to find that” Dr. Leopold J. Streletz, neuroscientist at WCMC, suffers from a similar deficiency, which he happened to discover when he participated in the HMC survey. “I had no symptoms,” he says, reasoning that the widespread deficiency can be attributed to the fact that “the population is very covered and doesn’t expose skin areas to nourishing sunlight, which may be quite harsh in this climate.”

So reasons for D deficiency range broadly from a conservative culture and lifestyle to “the bloody sun at noon.” Solutions? “When I took supplements,” said Dr. Sultan, commenting on his deficiency, “within about six months, the vitamin D level increased from 15 to 30.”

Ask the old lady, hunched limply in an armchair as she patiently waits her turn at the doctors’. Her chestnut-brown hands are gnarled and knotted, the fingers stiff from deformity. They call it rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system begins to attack its own tissue.

Although the deficiency is really ‘silent,’ it’s a surprisingly quick fix in the early stages. Supplements, for one, can be relied upon to make up for the loss of the vitamin. As for a healthy diet, fish tops the list of select foods rich in vitamin D, followed by cod liver oil supplements, mushrooms, eggs and milk.

Ask the young woman in her office, her bony fingers busily clicking away on the keyboard. “I was diagnosed with osteopenia in 2002,” she begins, “a scan showed that my bone density was only 30 percent of what it should have been.” Osteopenia is a condition in which vitamin D deficiency leaches away the bone mass, making the bone hollow and

And last but not least—do not shy away from the sun. Arwa Tayyam, a doctor at Mesaimeer Hospital, says the best time to expose yourself to the sun is from four to seven in the morning and an hour before sunset. So go out there, spread your arms and let your body soak in some of that golden goodness.

108

QH SENSATIONS

: s g n i n e p O e r Newr ASirwtayo es Flight s’ Oryx Galleria Tak Qata

W

ith Doha firmly on the map as a hub for international travellers, Qatar Airways is saying ‘thank-you’ to their customers with a new boutique where Privilege Club members can cash in their Qmiles on top-of-theline items and luxury merchandise.

Recently opened in March, the Oryx Galleria is just a short distance from Doha International Airport, a spacious two-level department store providing customers an alternative to redeeming their loyalty points on flights with the airline and its partners.

Very different from its airport and in-flight duty-free businesses, the Galleria offers up the crème de la crème in brand-name designer fashion and accessories, electronics, jewellery, sporting goods and appliances. A large accumulation of Qmiles points can pay off in a big way, and gold card members have the added advantage of paying a special Qmiles rate on all in-store products.

Some of the items available in the Oryx Galleria’s showroom include Apple iPods and iPads, SLR digital cameras and first-class gaming systems. Always wanted a pool table to enjoy indoors during the hot Doha summers? 202,000 Qmiles can get you one. Or, if cruising down the highway to Sealine Beach Resort in air-conditioned comfort is more to your liking, a cool 7.5 million Qmiles will have you hitting the road in a new Mini Cooper.

Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker (centre)

After twelve years since its launch, the Qatar Airways Privilege Club continues to draw in an ever-growing number of customers.

“We always keep looking for ways to bring additional value to our customers,” says CEO Akbar Al Baker. “This latest initiative reinforces our commitment to provide our most loyal customers with unique benefits that are fitting for being members of the best frequent-flyer program in the region.”

In its fifteen short years in business, the airline has rapidly become one of the world-leaders in aviation, offering five-star service and flights to all corners of the globe. In addition to flying, passengers traveling with Qatar Airways can also earn Qmiles when they use any of the airline’s partner car rental, financial, hotel and travel services. To sign up go to www.qmiles.com.

After our visit to the Oryx Galleria, we can certainly say that we’ll be back – we have our eye on that one bottle of perfume for 10,500 points. Time to book a ticket and rack up those miles!

109

QH SENSATIONS

with these special events. Just don’t eat too many chocolate eggs!

Easter Egg Hunt - Brunch

Fri 6th: Grand Hyatt Doha. An opulent and delicious buffet is waiting as you celebrate Easter. Special attention will be given to the desserts and you can enjoy bunny cookies, homemade chocolate eggs, colourful cupcakes, orange tarts and many more while the little ones hunt for eggs in Grand Hyatt Doha’s colourful gardens. Find an egg to claim your prize that will make you a star! For more information call 4448-1240 or email thegrill.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Easter Eve Hi-Tea

Sat 7th: Holiday Villa Doha. QR 120 per adult and QR 60 per child (aged between 4-11 years old). From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

For more information, call 4408-4888.

Easter Brunch

Sun 8th: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Hop over to the Seasons restaurant to indulge in an elegant Easter brunch. Designed by Executive Chef Ery Irmansjah, the buffet includes carving and live cooking stations, a seafood display, a bountiful salad bar and an endless dessert selection. Kids will enjoy fun activities including egg colouring and a quest in search of the secret treasure courtesy of LoneStar Jewelry. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Price QR 245 per person with alcoholic beverages.

Children aged 12 to 16 get 50% off, those below 12 eat free. For more information, call 4429-1111.

Easter Dinner

Sun 8th: Grand Hyatt Doha. Celebrate by enjoying a traditional Easter with a special set menu designed by Executive Chef Michael Poutawa. Price per person QR 250 including soft beverages, or QR 395 with house beverages. For more information call 4448-1240 or email thegrill.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

110

Easter Sunday in Aroma and Kempinski Kids Club!

Sun 8t: Kempinski Residences & Suites.

Spend Easter with your family in Aroma and savour the sharing 3-course menu and the delicious waffle station. Let your children hop into the Easter celebration with egg hunting, egg painting, fun games, little bunny dance party and lots of surprises. The Chef will prepare a kids buffet in the Kids Club with hot dogs, mini burgers, pasta and pizza along with sweet treats. Lunch in Aroma and party at Kempinski Kids Club from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm. QR 195 per person, QR 95 per child (ages 4–12, including lunch in the kids buffet). For more information, call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com

Good Friday and Easter Sunday Brunch

Fri 6th and Sun 8th: Four Seasons Doha.

Celebrate Easter with family and loved ones.

Choose from the wide array of appetizers, entrees and desserts at this Easter-inspired brunch buffet. It will be a fun-filled day especially for the little ones with activities such as egg hunting, balloon modeling, face painting, bouncy castle and a lot more. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 325 per person, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, QR 165 for kids 5-12 yrs old; below 5 yrs old free of charge. QAR 415 for Sparkling Brunch (inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, red wine, white wine or sparkling wine), QR 435 –Bubbly Brunch (inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and one glass of bubbly). For more information, call 4494-8888.

Il Teatro

Sun 8th: Four Seasons Doha. Delight in the contemporary four-course Pasqua Dinner where Chef Matteo will create exquisite dishes and let you savour the finest Italian food. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. QR 370 per person inclusive of one cocktail upon arrival.

For more information, call 4494- 8888.

Easter Afternoon Tea

Fri 6th – Sun 8th: Four Seasons Doha. Let your family and friends adore the Easter inspired afternoon tea at Seasons and enjoy the finest scones, tea sandwiches and tempting sweets. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. QR135 per person. For more information, call 4494-8888.

Easter Treats

Sun 1st - Sun 8th: Four Seasons Doha.

Should you want to surprise someone why not take home Easter Treats: chocolate bunny, eggs and delights and let the celebration continue with the rest of the family. For more information, call 4494-8888.

Sunday Easter Brunch

Sun 8th: W Doha. Watch fresh local products and ingredients come together splendidly in the Mediterranean-inspired show kitchen at Market, where global gastronomy has found its home. Brunch serves international and Mediterranean cuisine. QR 320 including specialty drinks, QR 280 including soft drinks. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4453-5135.

QH SENSATIONS

Easter Bunny Tea Easter Brunch at The Restaurant Gallery

La Veranda Family Brunch

Sun 8th: Sheraton Doha. Lots of surprises for Kids; Easter Egg hunting in La Veranda garden with prizes. Kids also receive an Easter Basket with chocolates. Buffet for adults QR 180 and QR 85 for kids 5-12 years. From 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 pm.

Reservation recommended. For more information, call 4485-4556 or 4485-4488.

Chocolate Bunny-Making Classes

Fri 6th and Sun 8th: Grand Hyatt Doha.

Mums will also be able to enjoy afternoon tea while their little bunnies play Chef for the afternoon. From 3:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.

RSVP is essential. For further information, visit www.dohamums.com

Easter Egg Colouring Classes

Sat 7th and Sat 14th: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Children will have loads of fun dipping their eggs into a myriad of colours!

Two sessions daily; 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. RSVP is essential. For further information, visit www.dohamums.com

Bunny-Shaped Cookie Decorating Class

Mon 8th: Carluccio’s. Children of all ages are invited! From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m.

RSVP is essential. For further information, visit www.dohamums.com

Fun-Filled Easter Brunch

Fri 6th: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Crossroads Kitchen will host a fun-filled Easter Friday brunch with a festive buffet of tantalizing cuisines and a children’s entertainment zone with an egg hunt. From QR 215 including soft beverages, QR 120 children 7–12 years old, youngsters eat free. For more information, call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com

Sun 8th: Marriott Doha. Their Chefs await you with lavish seasonal favorites, carving and live cooking stations, seafood, seasonal salads, chocolate bunnies and much more. Exciting programs for kids in the ballroom too. 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m.

QR 299 per person and QR 388 with bubbly.

For more information, call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com

Easter Specials

Sun 1st – Sun 15th: La Cigale. All the gourmet foods you are looking for with specialty products from around the world. Traditional Easter lamb, chocolate bunnies and eggs, braided brioche rolls, festivity cakes, traditional Arabic sweets and Maamoul ,gift hampers and special spring flower arrangements. For more information call 4428-8803 or 4428-8820

Easter Specialty

Sun 8th: La Cigale. Benefit from the Easter Brunch of Le Cigalon in the private atmosphere of Di Capri, with extensive beverage menu. Price per person is QR 250, including American coffee or tea. For more information, call 4428-8840.

Easter Brunch

Sun 8th: La Cigale. Challenge your family and friends with an Easter egg competition. Enjoy the fresh spring salads, seafood display, Easter lamb and finish with a wide variety of Arabic and international sweets. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Price per person QR 250, including American coffee or tea. For more information, call 4428-8698.

Easter Brunch

Sun 8th: Sharq Village & Spa. Al Dana and Al Liwan offer a very bubbly brunch with lots of children’s activities, including face painting and an Easter egg hunt. Extensive buffet includes Easter specialties and international favourites. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. QR 300 including soft drinks and QR 350 with free flowing sparkling beverages. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

Sun 8th: Sharq Village & Spa. At Al Jalsa dainty finger sandwiches and delicious cakes are accompanied by a choice of teas from around the world. Children will love the fluffy chicks and rabbits, not to mention the Easter eggs and a host of chocolate goodies. From 2:30 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. QR 135 per person. For more information, call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

Friday Family Brunch

Sun 8th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch in Lagoon Restaurant. Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations.

Children have their own junior buffet and entertainment. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 220 or QR 295 with bubbly; QAR 110 for children aged 4-12 years. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Easter Day Brunch

Sun 8th: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Unwind with friends and family at The Lagoon Restaurant and indulge in a luxurious buffet, live musical performances in a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The Ritz-Kids line of activities includes our special Egg Hunting in The Lagoon Garden and some great treats for little ones and grown-ups! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 220 or QR 295 with bubbly; QR 110 for children aged 4-12 years. For more information, call 4484-8000.

Easter Brunch

Sun 8th: Oryx Rotana Doha. Celebrate this Easter holiday with an ‘eggstravagant’ Easter Brunch at Choices Restaurant. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 240 per person including unlimited juices and soft drinks or QR 315 including unlimited selected house beverages.

For more information, call 4402-3333.

Easter Brunch

Sun 8th April & Sun 15th: InterContinental Doha. The Easter brunch includes traditional lamb on the grill, ouzi, live pasta stations and a variety of delectable desserts. There are special activities prepared for the children such as egg hunting in Doha’s biggest backyard, egg painting and much more. For more information, call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

111

Escaping to fantastic happening destinations around the world does wonders. Here are some

:HONEYMOON EDITION

Seychellois Cultural Bazaars April 1-30th: Seychelles

Odalan Ceremonies at the Temples of Bali

April in the Seychelles is when the cultural bazaars open shop. With three major ones, the Bazar Labrinn, Bazar Ovan and Victoria Bazar offering traditional food and wares in a vibrant Seychellois Creole ambiance, it’s the perfect place to for newlyweds to explore after a relaxing day on the beach. Bring your dancing shoes to enjoy the rhythm of the local music and visit www.seychelles.travel.en to plan your getaway.

23rd Barcelona Guitar Festival April 1st –May 26th: Spain

Let the sounds of the Spanish mandolins serenade you and your partner at this festival celebrating the richness of one of the most prolific musical instruments. Enjoy a wealth of performances showcasing the styles and nuances of the classical six-string to the more avant-garde. Grab your pick and tune up at www.barceloneturisme.com to learn more.

Songkran Thai New Year April 13th -15th: Thailand

Also known as the Thai Water Festival this event held in mid-April is one of the most important celebrations for the Thai people as they ring in the Thai New Year with a splash. Don’t be afraid to get wet as water is sprayed, hosed, spilled and anointed on everyone to wash away the mistakes of the past year and bring good fortune to the new year ahead. For newlyweds it can be symbolic of good luck and prosperity to come for those entering into marriage.

Pack your bathing suit and find out how to take part at www.sgholiday.com.

Early April: Bali The ultimate honeymoon destination, this Indonesian island draws tourists to its two most popular temples at Pura Ulun Danu and Pura Taman Ayun. Blending Hindu and animistic beliefs, the architectural and ceremonial traditions of Bali are celebrated in odalan ceremonies. Eleven-days long the Pura Ulun Danu festival is based on the 10th full moon in the Balinese moon calendar which occurs in early April, commemorating the temple’s founding with a mix of music and dance. Visit www.balitourismauthority.net to book your trip to paradise.

Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Amaluna’

Starting April 19th: Canada

French-speaking Montréal has been called a ‘little Paris’ in the heart of Canada, but it’s also the birthplace of the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil. Newlyweds visiting the city in April can take in the premiere of its newest production ‘Amaluna’, a love story set on a mysterious island inhabited by goddesses and led by the cycles of the moon. Visit www.tourisme-montreal.org or www.cirquedusoleil.com to for more information and prepare to lose yourself in the spectacle of the Cirque.

113

VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

VIRGIN

R E CO M M E N D S

QH brings you the top selections from

Virgin Megastore.

Look out for the

QH heart in stores!

ETS

G GAD

ZOKU BUCKYBALL Triple the Bucky, triple the balls! Each Buckyball set contains 125 powerful Rare Earth magnets that can be shaped, molded, torn apart and snapped together in unlimited ways.

Make sculptures, puzzles, patterns, shapes, or stick stuff to the fridge.

Zoku freezes ice pops in as little as seven minutes right on your countertop without electricity. Non-stick cast-aluminium moulds have a proprietary solution sealed inside their bases to enable rapid, uniform freezing. Perfect for the hot summer months in Qatar!

TANKBOT

ZAPI TOOTHBRUSH

THINKING PUTTY

Tankbot is the perfect toy for the techies out there. Remote-controlled by your smartphone or tablet device this little guy can navigate without bumping into objects and even has an autonomous personality mode. Resistance is futile.

Germophobes rejoice! The Zapi Toothbrush Sanitizer has you covered, blasting away 99.9% of germs and bacteria with antibacterial UV light. Put your toothbrush in, press the button and after seven minutes you’ll have the cleanest mouth on the block.

Finally a blob of putty with a mind of its own! Hypercolor Thinking Putty reacts to heat from your hands and from household objects, showing off a ‘hot’ new colour using thermochromic technology. Let it cool down and it changes its hue yet again.

114

SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES

coming ... soon

TOP MOVIES

QH recommends an actionpacked night at the theatre with these films that are sure to please!

21 Jump Street

Detachment Drama

Action / Comedy

A substitute teacher who drifts from classroom to classroom finds a connection to the students and teach- ers during his latest assignment.

A pair of underachieving cops are sent back to a local high school to blend in and bring down a synthetic drug ring.

Directors: Phil Lord , Chris Miller Stars: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum and Ice Cube

................................................................................................................

caSa De mi paDre Comedy Scheming on a way to save their father›s ranch, the Alvarez brothers find themselves in a war with Mexico›s most feared drug lord.

Director: Matt Piedmont Stars: Will Ferrell, Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna

Director: Tony Kaye Stars: Adrien Brody, Betty Kaye and Marcia Gay Harden ................................................................

the kiD with a bike Drama

...............................................................................................................

Jeff, who LiveS at home Comedy Dispatched from his basement room on an errand for his mother, slacker Jeff might discover his destiny (finally) when he spends the day with his brother tracking his pos- sibly adulterous wife.

Directors: Jay Duplass, Mark Duplass Stars: Jason Segel, Ed Helms and Judy Greer

116

Abandoned by his father, a young boy is left in a staterun youth farm. In a random act of kindness, the town hairdresser agrees to foster him on weekends.

Directors: Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne Stars: Thomas Doret, Cécile DeFrance and Jérémie Renier

The Dish on Qatar New to the country? Welcome to the desert! We’ve got the essential info you’ll need to make the most of your time in this Gulf State.

AT A GLANCE Qatar is a peninsular nation jutting out into the Persian Gulf. It shares a land border with Saudi Arabia and the UAE city of Dubai is only a 40 minute flight away.

With one of the fastest growing economies in the Middle East, Qatar’s population is 1.8 million with a large number of English-speaking ex-pats living and working in the country. The capital city and seat of government is the coastal metropolis of Doha.

Qatar is ruled by an absolute monarchy with Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani holding governing power since 1995 with the nation gaining independence as a British protectorate in 1971. National Day is celebrated on December 18 to mark the anniversary of the Al Thani family’s succession to the throne.

Qatar holds extensive natural gas deposits and oil reserves in excess of 15 billion barrels. It has also established itself as a world-player in international relations, branding itself as a neutral world power, fostering open relationships with many countries around the globe.

GETTING AROUND Navigating Qatar’s larger cities like Doha can be intimidating to newcomers, but it’s not impossible! Taxis here are called Karwas, meaning ‘connectors’ in Arabic and there are three types: SMS taxis which you can basically call or text (SMS) to pick you up, street taxis which roam around waiting to be hailed, (you can’t miss them, they’re bright aqua-green!) and finally, limousine taxis which are a bit costlier but definitely the most comfortable way to go. Limousine taxis can be hired for either single routes or booked for an entire day.

The public transport system in Doha is also very efficient, with buses that are clean and air-conditioned stopping at all the major routes.

Taxi services can be reached through a central call centre at (+974) 4458-8888 and VIP limo services can be booked via fax through their Taxi and Limo department at (+974) 4458- 8692.

BASIC FACTS To enter Qatar you will need a tourist visa. These are provided for passportholders from a wide range of countries and can be obtained on arrival at the airport at customs. They are good for 30 days and usually cost the equivalent of 27 U.S. dollars. You will need to supply a sponsor ID at the time of your visa application. This can be from a relative in Qatar or from the hotel where you are staying. For more information visit www.moi.gov.qa.

The fall and winter months are the best time to visit Qatar to beat the heat. During the day the temperatures average out between 15-17 C (62 F). The region is sunny and arid year-round with summertime highs of 45 C (113 F). Small amounts of rainfall also occur periodically from December through to February.

Qatar is a Muslim country with 95% of the people observing this religion.

Weekends are Friday to Saturday though most places remain open for limited hours between 7:30am-1pm. There are also small populations of Christians, Jews, Hindus, Bahais and many other faiths.

The Qatari flag is maroon with a serrated white band. The maroon signifies the bloodshed during Qatari wars while the white represents peace. The serrated edge of the band has nine-points, marking

Qatar as the ninth member of the ‘reconciled emirates’ after the QatariBritish treaty of 1916.

CURRENY CHECK The official currency in Qatar is the riyal, divided into 100 dirhams. Here are some conversion rates to help you plan your budget. Always check your local currency exchange before purchasing as exchange rates are subject market fluctuations.

ONE QATARI RIYAL EQUALS: 0.49 0.26 0.10 0.28 1.74 1.66 0.21 2.13 66.77 14.03 2529.67 3101.65 320.19 21.11 0.19 23.74 317.03 0.08 413.

0.86 2.38 22.65 24.83 12.07 0.93 8.67 1.03 0.35 31.29 15.78 0.42 1.01 0.27

Brazilian Real (BRL) Australian Dollar (AUD) Bahrain Dinar (BHD) Canadian Dollar (CAD) Chinese Yuan (CNY) Egyptian Pound (EGP) Euro (EUR) Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) Hungarian Forint (HUF) Indian Rupee (INR) Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Iranian Rial (IRR) Iraqi Dinar (IQD) Japanese Yen (JPY) Jordanian Dinar (JOD) Kenyan Shilling (KES) Korean Won (KRW) Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) Lebanese Pound (LBP) Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) Moroccan Dirham (MAD) Nepalese Rupee (NPR) Pakistan Rupee (PKR) Philippine Peso (PHP) Romanian Leu (RON) Russian Rubie (RUB) Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR) Singapore Dollar (SGD) Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) Syrian Pound (SYP) Tunisian Dinar (TND) United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) Unites States Dollar (USD)

117

IT HAPPENED

Moona Masri-Whitice

Moona Masri-Whitice

HOW WOMeN WORK CONFERENCE Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel, March 8, 2012

Carolin Zeitler

118

Dean Allyson Vanston

Co-founder Carolin Zeitler

IT HAPPENED

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY GRAND OPENING March 12, 2012

119

IT HAPPENED

Calvin Harris

120

DJ CALVIN HARRIS Beachside at the InterContinental, March 8, 2012

IT HAPPENED

WYNDHAM SUSHI NIGHT Wyndham Grand Regency Doha Feb 6, 2012

Left: Chef Jameel El Nabtiti,

Chef Eman Abel, Chopsticks’ Team and guests

QH Team: Lanie Fillo-Pana, Marlynne Mallari and Jessie Palanca

QH Team: Jennifer Daclan Ruiz and Lanie Fillo-Pana

121

IT HAPPENED

Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition Doha Exhibition Center, Feb 20, 2012

Photos courtesy of the Qatar Tourism Authority

122

IT HAPPENED

Team Abu Dhabi Philippe Chiappe, Ahmed Al Hameli, Scott Gillman and

Sami Selio

Team Qatar

f1h20 boat races Doha Corniche, March 10, 2012

Shaun Torrente

In boat: Alex Carella 123

IT HAPPENED

sticks

Chef Eman Abel, Jameel El Nabtiti at Chop

WYNDHAM thai food festival Wyndham Grand Regency Doha Chopsticks Restaurant, March 17, 2012

Chef Eman Abel, The Ambas sador of Thailand and Samah Akl PR Manager

Chopsticks’ Team

Ambassador of Thailand with family, Chef Eman Abel and Samah Akl, PR Manager

124

Chopsticks’ Team

IT HAPPENED

ni

Sheikh Nawaf Bin Nasser Al Tha

Q.E. Chief Executive Andre Went

Sarah of QBA and Susanna and Lanie from QH

Frank Harrigan

ITALian Business Mission to Qatar Four Seasons Hotel March 20, 2012

Mario Ciaccia

Massimo D’Aiuto, CEO Simest

125

IT HAPPENED

QPO CONCERT Opera House, Katara, Feb 5, 2012

, Susanna Wolfe

Anthea and John Obank

126

IT HAPPENED

Far right: Samah Akl, PR Manager

Spanish paella week Wyndham Grand Regency Doha, Grand Gourmet Feb 18, 2012

Right: Chef Eman Abel

127

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 Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Al Saad St. 4431-4411 Courtyard by Marriott 4419-5555 Doha City Center Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4220 InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha the City 4015-8888 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale Hotel 4428-8888 Marriott Executive Apartments 4419-6000 Doha City Center Merwebhotel Central Doha 4409-4444 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6600 Nando’s 4436-0606 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Ramada Plaza 4428-1555 Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-1428 Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000 4445-5333 Safir Doha Hotel Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666 Sheraton Doha 4485-4444 4411-5225/ Sizzling Hot Pot 4411-5335 The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444 The Torch Doha Hotel 4446-5600 W Doha 4453-5353 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

128

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

Spas / Salons

Shopping

Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 4453-5555 Bliss Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Diplomatic Spa 4484-7412 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 4494-8844 Frank Provost George V Spa 4412-2046/47 Glow American Salon, Salwa 4468-9945 Westbay 4411-7652 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4499-9250 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 La Coifure Frances 4468-9211 Lucia Hair Dressing 4485-4011 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Mohamad Al Sagheer Salon 4425-6164 4493-4000 Pace & Luce 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 Blue Salon 4446-6111 City Center Doha 4483-0582 4469-4848 Hyatt Plaza Landmark Mall 4487-5222 4413-0000 Royal Plaza Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 51 East 4425-7777

Tourism / Travel Alpha Tours Arabian Adventures Black Pearl Tourism Services World Wide Destination Discover Qatar 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 Travco Qatar Holidays Victoria Car Rental

4434-4496 4436-1461 5555-1169 4467-1200 4449-6973 4438-4477 4462-2777 4422-1888 4449-6666 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4441-9301 4466-6635

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 Illonggos 5595-9561 Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052 Qatar Intl. Beauty Academy 4454-2422 Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 Red Dotters Qatar 5520-9294 5551-8358 Simplemente Amigas Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598 South African Ladies Association 5589-2366 Spanish Speaking Ladies Group 6664-2094 Talking Matters Toastmasters 5580-7524 5573-5078 Tuesday Ladies Group 5550-8026 Turkish Ladies Group

Clubs Bridge Club

5554-0873

Doha Garden Club

5523-1650

Dana Club

4496-0600

Diplomatic Club

4484-7444

Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Doha Sailing Club

4443-9840

Filcom Toastmasters Club

5540-3971

Qatar Scientific Club

4458-3780

An Address of Luxury

Residences

Leisure & Recreation

Al Gassar Ballroom

The St. Regis Doha

Exclusive lifestyle within your reach Al Gassar Resort, a new waterfront destination in Doha, offers residents and visitors the opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury living in an amazing waterfront community.

Located in an ideal location in the West Bay with breathtaking views overlooking the Arabian Gulf; Al Gassar Resort promises exclusivity with its Doha and a host of high-end features and amenities.

Experience true luxury at Al Gassar Resort.

Developed and managed by:

www.algassarresort.com