Qatar Happening April 2017

QATAR’S FAVOURITE EVENTS MAGAZINE

QR 10

April 2017

Live in Doha Steve Aoki Brings His High Energy Style in Town

Nail Care Like No Other Check out QH’s review at Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La

Chef for a Day The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa GM Gianrico Esposito Accepts the Challenge

Let’s Rock A Tribute to Elvis Presley, The King of Rock n' Roll

ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS

CULTURE

FOOD

COMMUNITY

SPORTS

Fly Confidently A flock of pigeons along the waterfront promenade of Doha Corniche Photo taken by Jessie Palanca Sponsored by Shooting Stars for KONG: Skull Island Qatar Premiere Screening Check out our monthly Qatar Through Your Eyes competition on our website and social media platforms

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Qatar Happening

TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 28

Talk About Artistic Passion Leila Elhaj Interview

April 2017 14

EVERY ISSUE 7

Editor-In-Chief’s Letter

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The QH Grab Bag

Steve Aoki: Iconic electro- DJ plays in Doha for the first time

For the first time ever, Steve Aoki brings his high-energy spectacle of a show to Doha

QH’s Editor-In Chief shares what’s happening in Doha QH gives you a chance to win exciting goodies every month

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122 It Happened

​ H’s photo gallery showcases who's Q who at Doha’s latest events

132 Phone Directory

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Virgin Recommends

20

Spotlight On Movies

Need-to-know phone numbers

Virgin Megastores shares the newest and hottest from gadgets to music

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Top Picks

38

Qatar International Food Festival

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Top Picks

12

Party Happenings – Four Seasons Barefoot Thursday

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Leila Elhaj: Creating art with passion and enthusiasm

Discover what’s new to view and do

QH Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca shares a magical Barefoot Thursday on the beach

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

The latest creative, cultural, and civic activities

Artist and healthcare exec Leila Elhaj on the value of art for self-expression and therapy

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

Check out this month's local scene

The Doha community tastes diverse cuisines in this international eatfest

ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

COMMUNITY

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QH brings you the top five must-see films of the month

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Qumra: Pointing to the future of filmmaking

The Doha Film Institute expands the Qatari film industry's potential to excel

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ENTERTAINMENT

Abdulaziz Al Dorani Promoting Qatar through his acting skills

Actor Abdulaziz Al Dorani on how he got his start

Presley fans in Qatar pay homage to the King with a show starring tribute artist Dean Z

118 Doha at a Glance

Catch up on recent corporate news and products announcements

Elvis Presley: The King in Doha for a Night of Rock n’ Roll

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Doha students conduct research to help improve the city’s infrastructure

Compass school students engage in an MIT-guided program to research city issues

42

Mum in Doha: Breastmilk or formula?

On giving babies the best care au naturel

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CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

Doha College: Surviving Exams

How parents can help their children achieve more in school

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Qatar Happening

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

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TABLE OF CONTENTS FASHION & LUXURY 46

Carolina Herrera’s The Bow: SS17 Collection

Herrera ties together her latest collection with a timeless staple: the bow.

50

FOOD & DINING 75

Top Picks

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Le Central Restaurant: Where to Go in Doha for the Best Sushi and Seafood

Alice + Olivia SS17 Collection

Eat all you can sushi and seafood? QH food writer Nikki Palmero tells you where

Relaxed and easy looks channel a West Coast vibe

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“In Love with Fashion” with Bollywood Star Katrina Kaif

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QH's Marian Nagy talks with Bollywood star Katrina Kaif on Splash's urban chic fashion

58 60

GAP Kids SS17

GAP's spring style for kids is comfortable, sunny, and stylish

Beauty Buzz: Beauty Essentials for the Season

QH shares a curated selection of skin care and beauty products for spring

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68

The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2017

QH Chef for a Day Challenge: Gianrico Esposito

Westin Doha GM Gianrico Esposito takes us to Italy with his 'Visiting Home' menu

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Haute Home Style:

By Roche Bobois Paris

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A lucky QH reader shares their restaurant experience

A Sweet Celebration of Chocolate

When Doha tasted the best Belgian chocolate served by consummate chocolatiers

102 Pursuing Dream

The Shine project brought Brazilian athletes to train at Aspire Academy for free

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

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QH SENSATIONS

Word of Mouth

The freshest news in games and sports

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com luciana@qatarhappening.com Call Details: Inquiries: +974 4443-2224 +974 4427-8416 Marketing: +974 5584-4905

Exhibition

110 Chi, The Spa: Pampering Rituals Based on Asian Wellness Traditions

101 Top Picks

Feedback and comments are always welcome.

Please forward letters to the editor:

Jewellery & Watches

109 Top Picks

SPORTS

HAVE YOUR SAY

A Glimpse of Doha

Chef Challenge: Beyond Juicing Oranges A chef shares recipes starring a healthy ingredient. This month: Oranges

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pg 62

A Homage to Qatari Cuisine

Craving for a Qatari culinary experience? Dine at Nassayem Qatar

A display of the world's finest baubles and timepieces lauds craftsmanship and style

French luxe furniture leader Roche Bobois shows off their must-have spring pieces

Discover the best of dining in Doha

Explore the freshest in wellness, health, travel, and more

QH experiences the spa-style manipedi at Chi, The Spa

112 Relaxing in the Heart of the City Centro Capital is perfect for staycations. Here's why

114 Cannes Where the Glitterati relax in Style

QH travel writer Francesca Cruz guides us around celebrity-studded Cannes

116 Dish on Qatar: Good Buys

QH takes you around Doha to find cute and useful bargain buys

105 QPW Brings Pro Wrestling Extravaganza to Doha QPW brings Superslam event to Doha to thrill wrestling fans

106 Full Moon Yoga

Evolve helps you tap into a special energy through their Full Moon Yoga class

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group.

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

All rights reserved 2017, 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 10. Bulk subscriptions are available.

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Gulf Publishing & Printing Company W.L.L.

FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear Friends, Allow me to extend my warmest greetings to you all.

In this, our April issue of QH, we once again pride ourselves on providing our readers with a treasure trove of themes designed to inform, inspire and illuminate all that Doha has to offer.

Check out our entertainment section for, amongst many things, the latest updates with global artist, record producer and music executive, Steve Aoki. Those with a penchant for tunes from an era gone by can reacquaint themselves with the cultural icon and ‘King of Rock and Roll’, with our tribute to Elvis Presley.

Peruse the pages of our Fashion & Luxury section for the must-have Spring Summer Style collection crafted by Carolina Herrera, whilst our feature on The Doha Jewelry Exhibition showcases interviews with a selection of Qatari entrepreneurs.

Dip into our Sensations segment and indulge your senses as we examine the Shangri-La’s latest spa package deal. Centro Capital gets our treatment of the month with a review of its hottest hotel staycation offer. Whet your appetite with our extensive dining guide of top picks and flavors of the month.

It remains our privilege to guide you on an enlightening journey of discovery, so sit back and relax with the latest issue of QH; the ultimate guide with the most comprehensive coverage of Doha. We look forward to continuing our legacy as the leading provider of entertainment, topical events, fashion and exclusive deals.

Once again, thank you for making QH a part of your lives.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Chairman

Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Editor-In-Chief

Mr. Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca

Copy Editor

Jennifer Ortuoste

Editorial Coordinator

Art Director / Production Manager

Hairiya Santos

John Lee

Sales & Marketing Manager

Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager

Luciana Cunha Franca

Photographer Jessie Palanca

Marian Nagy

Office Administrator Carmela Yao

Web Coordinator Imran Khan

Distribution Assistant Jaya Prasad Gautam

Contributors

Luciana Cunha Franca, Jenny Ortuoste, Lynsey Riach, Francesca Cruz, Nikki Palmero, Eylin Perez, Steffen Sommer, Carmela Yao, Wajeeha Malik, Marian Nagy, Hairiya Santos, Rabi'ah M., Rubina Singh, Manu Breu

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Here’s your chance to get back into shape and indulge in some selfcare. This month, QH is giving away a one month Health Club Membership plus one spa voucher of any 60-minute treatment courtesy of Shangri-La Hotel Doha. To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page.

The winner will be selected on April 10.

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About the Health Club at Shangri-La Hotel Doha Be spoilt by the hotel’s leisure facilities on the seventh floor: a lagoon-shaped pool lies on the 2,000-square-metre pool deck, with a shaded splash pool located nearby for little guests. Surrounded by over 70 trees, the pool deck is a lush, tranquil oasis in the midst of the urban cityscape.

Inside the crisp, cool interiors of the Health Club, a fully-equipped 24-hour fitness centre allows guests to concentrate on specific areas with different zones for stretching, strength training, cardio, weights, and physical training. Adjacent sauna and steam rooms soothe tired muscles after an intensive session.

Chi, The Spa is a sanctuary of bliss and healing where Asian wellness traditions are blended with botanical extracts, aromatic essential oils, and natural Arabian elements that nourish the body and reinvigorate the senses. Each treatment is conducted with utmost discretion by skilled, intuitive therapists.

Eight private treatment rooms are decorated in soothing shades of tangerine and apricot, smooth wood accents, and richly textured fabrics. A first of its kind in Doha is the spa’s outdoor hydrotonic pool that harnesses the curative qualities of gently flowing water.

Shangri-La Health Club Membership gives you access to the Gym on the 7th floor, the Ladies Only Gym on the 41st (for ladies only), and the Pool. n For inquiries and reservation, please call 4429 5000 or email healthclub.sldh@shangri-la.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

ANTICA PESA Happy Hour

Sat., Sun., Mon., Wed. &, Fri. at the Lounge Bar. From 4pm to 10:30pm. Antica Pesa Lounge has the Happy Hour prices for all the guests and the possibility to have Appetizers a la carte. For more information, call 4035 5300 or email info@ anticapesadoha.com.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Ladies & Bubbles

Wed. at Shanghai Club. From 5:30pm to 1am. Enjoy flow of selected sips all night long. For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email shanghai.club@shangri-la.com

GRAND HYATT DOHA Sundowner Sessions Doha at Flipflop Beach Club

Fri. Sundowner Sessions Doha returns for its Spring/ Summer 2017 season with no cover-charge and no attitude. Beach opens at 1:00pm with Happy Hour from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Please call 4448 1234 for bookings and enquiries.

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON Cinderella Night

Sun. at Pure. Start the week in style with PURE ladies night. Enjoy your favorite drinks for free from 8pm to 10pm. Wear your prettiest pair of high heels to win a surprise! For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or email: doha.social@hilton.com.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Thirsty Thursdays

Thurs. at Glo Cocktail Bar. From 8pm to midnight.

Kick back and start your weekend with our Thirsty Thursday, the ‘all you can drink packages’, starting from only QR 199 per person. Soak up the beats of our resident DJ and enjoy a fun night out! For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

BAREFOOT THURSDAY Eat, dance, and love the beach life Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Pictures by Jessie Palanca

On one of the warmest nights in Doha since winter began, QH wanders over to the beach at Four Seasons Hotel and gets a magical experience at Barefoot, the hotel’s newest attraction.

It’s got everything Barefoot is a place where you can enjoy the energetic sounds of a live band, the tastes of a delicious and abundant dinner, and the pleasures of unique signature beverages at the beach bar while listening to the best tracks of Four Seasons’ resident DJ Nicole.

When we arrived, we were greeted by Four Seasons Public Relations Executive Hassan Saraya, who assisted us to our table and explained everything about this unique space in Doha. Everything about it is what you’re keen for. If you want to party, they have a lounge with a DJ and a live band. If you’d like to have an enjoyable dinner in a perfect environment, they offer a complete buffet by the beach.

It’s relaxing Please don’t come in high heels or stylish shoes.

Flip-flops are a good choice because you will be walking on the sand. Feeling sand between your toes and seeing the moonlight bathe the scene in a silver glow while enjoying house beverages by the beach is a perfect way to spend an evening.

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It’s mouthwatering The buffet by the beach was fantastic and more than meets the the five-star standards adhered to by Four Seasons Hotel. The service was professional and efficient, even with the place fully booked with eager patrons.

beats laid on by the DJ. Live music was provided by the Bluestone Band, which shook up the house with the sound of blues soul.

It’s where you should be I’ve finally found a place where I can get everything in one night all at the same place. I highly recommend Barefoot Thursday at Four Seasons Hotel as your Thursday night option. You’ll feel like you are on holidays, partying at the beach, with as much food as you can eat and sips to drink, great music to dance to, and a leisurely stroll on the sand to relax and prepare you for the week ahead. n

We choose seafood by the grill. For our entrée we had grilled lobsters, with fantastic choices from the salad buffet as sides. Everything tasted so fresh that we decided to try the signature mussels bathed in a unique tomato sauce full of mouthwatering flavors.

Don’t think it is easy to decide from amongst the array of culinary delights! The buffet was as complete as

you can find in a brunch. And to make our night even sweeter, we enjoyed dessert bites for a satisfying finale.

It’s vibrant Whilst enjoying our plates we were entertained by the music, and watched everyone by the beach bar dancing, chatting, and singing along to the popular

For more information and to make reservations: Call 4494 8600 Beach BBQ Dinner: Every Thursday from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM (reservation recommended) QR 250 including soft beverages / QR 350 including selected house beverages Beach Bar: Free entry. First come, first served.

Every Thursday 6:30 PM to 1:00 AM / Happy Hour: 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

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ENTERTAINMENT

STEVE AOKI Iconic electroDJ plays in Doha for the first time Words by Jenny Ortuoste

Musician and record producer Steve Aoki, who’s made millions making EDM one of the biggest and most popular genres in music today, brings his signature high-energy style to a new audience. Cake and rafts, anyone?

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lectronic dance music, also known as club music or just dance music, was made for festivals, raves, and large parties where masses of people get together to groove to the throbbing of percussive electronic rhythms and the flashing of colorful lights.

It takes a special sort of person to be an EDM DJ. Not only do they have to choose tunes for a playlist, seamlessly sequence them and add effects, and play to a huge live audience, but they also have to have showmanship.

The club culture nowadays has come a long way from the disco era, where the dancers were the stars.

Today, the DJ is as much ringmaster as musician, because the success of the festival depends on them being able to whip the crowd into a frenzy with a succession of beats, at the right time, to achieve the perfect golden moment for dance to transcend into trance.

Steve Aoki is such a man.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN Steven Hiroyuki Aoki was born with a golden spoon – or perhaps chopsticks – in his, mouth, being the son of Benihana restaurant chain founder and erstwhile wrestler Rocky Aoki. Born in Miami in 1977, Steve grew up in sunny and decadent California, where he played varsity badminton in high school.

At the University of California Santa Barbara, Aoki took two bachelor’s degrees, one in feminist studies and the other in sociology. His college years was when he started working in music, producing records and putting on underground concerts in his apartment.

In 1996, when he was in his early 20s, he established his record label, Dim Mak, a homage to his childhood idol, actor and martial artist Bruce Lee.

DJING HIS WAY TO SUCCESS Among his accomplishments for the label, Aoki successfully produced and released the music of artists such as Bloc Party, The Kills, Klaxons, and others, and imported Sri Lankan rapper M.I.A. to the United States. Despite his father’s wealth, he made his own way, slowly building a fortune on touring as a clubland celebrity known as Kid Millionaire.

His intense energy and desire to interact with his audiences led him to invent ways to set himself apart as a DJ. He is known for stunts such as throwing cake at fans, riding rafts on the dance floor, and spraying champagne bottles, all while shirtless and with his long black hair whipping around his face as he dances, jumps, and spins.

Aoki explained this in a 2014 article he wrote for The Daily Beast: “When I perform, I don’t think about the haters, the internet trolls, or anyone else. I care about giving the person in front of me something they won’t forget. And that’s why I bring the cake and the raft out.”

His savvy business acumen has led him to diversify his energy into related channels, such as merchandising. He has an apparel line, the Dim Mak Collection, which this year includes clean, sparely designed t-shirts and hoodies. (Check out the photos on his Twitter, @steveaoki.)

What’s important to him, he says, is to tell a story: “So then, what do we as DJs do when we are up there, when you’re not mixing from one song to the next? Everyone is different but for me I add in another element to my set which is my props [rafts, cakes, etc.]…

CONSUMMATE PERFORMER Whatever he might venture into, music remains his passion, and he is sincere about giving his audiences an unforgettable experience: “When you go to a DJ show the music is the main reason why you are there. But you cannot deny that when you go, you are experiencing the show through all of your senses.

“I’m building my own story through the music. I’m figuring out what song to play next, what song to play after that, and how the two will blend together… So first I build that storyline. Then I used those props to further develop that story.”

SHARING AND CARING What many people - including some of his fans might not know is that he is a philantrophist. With the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund, he raised money for global humanitarian relief organizations by touring and holding memorabilia auctions and collaborations with other artists.

Today, the Aoki Foundation’s goal is to support “organizations in the brain science and research areas with a specific focus on regenerative medicine and brain preservation,” it says on his website, with the vision to “one day see a world where degenerative brain diseases do not exist and science and technology play a direct role in extending the healthy lives of ourselves and our loved ones. The Fund also supports humanitarian causes dear and near to DJ/ producer Steve Aoki such as disaster relief and animal-rights.”

“What you see and feel are part of the experience.

It’s not just what you hear. It’s all your senses coming together in one grouped feeling. So when you come to a Steve Aoki show you get a Steve Aoki experience.” n Get the Steve Aoki experience! Watch him live in Doha on April 13, 2017.

VENUE: BEACH, GRAND HYATT DOHA Timings: Doors open 7:00 PM, show starts 8:00 PM with guest DJs and a surprise guest act. Steve Aoki appears on stage at approximately 11:30 PM. Tickets: General Admission, QR 299; VIP, QR 599.

Available at Virgin Megastores and online at www. virginmegastore.me/qa and www.q-tickets.com.

Note: The show is proudly promoted by Premium Entertainment & Events, presented by Dim Mak Records, and powered by Sundowner Sessions

EDM.com has placed Aoki at the top of their 11 most charitable EDM producers, and MTV Latin America gave him their Chiuku Award in recognition of his humanitarian work.

HIS MUSIC, HIS LIFE His hard work and passion for music have put him at the top. In 2012, Pollstar’s Mid-Year Report listed Aoki as the highest grossing dance artist in North America for the first half of the year.

He has collaborated with producers and vocalists from many genres, including Will.I.Am, Iggy Azalea, Lil Jon, LMFAO, and Afrojack. He remixed and released tracks of well-known artists Jackson 5, Drake, Kanye West, Eminem, Lenny Kravitz, and Snoop Dogg.

His own albums are also popular. His 2012 album Wonderland garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Dance/Electronica Album in 2013. After that, he released the Neon Future series – the first in 2014, the second in 2015, and the third is coming out this year (Neon Future III).

Aoki performs an average of 250 shows a year around the world. This year alone, he will visit not only Doha, but also various venues in Bahrain, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Gibraltar, and even Kazakhstan, among other countries.

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ENTERTAINMENT

ELVIS PRESLEY The King in Doha for a Night of Rock n’ Roll As told to Luciana Cunha Franca

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Rod Stewart, himself a consummate performer, said, “Elvis was the king. No doubt about it. People like myself, Mick Jagger, and all the others only followed in his footsteps.”

Elvis Presley and his music are still so beloved that fans clubs thrive and impersonators carry on his memory. This month, the Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar brings Elvis tribute artist Dean Z to perform for one night only in Doha.

H

ere’s what the fan club has to say about their organization and this first-of-its-kind event: “The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar was formed in September 2015 in the hope of establishing a fan base in Qatar and the rest of the Arab World. We are the first in Qatar and only such club in the Middle East. We are officially recognized and approved by Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EP).

“Our mission is to raise awareness, preserve the name, memory, and music of Elvis Presley, and celebrate his life, times, and talent that he shared and still continues to share with all of us, through events, speaking engagements, cultural exchange experiences, Elvis Club meet ups, etc.

“Last year, as part of the club’s inauguration, the Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar and The American Chamber of Commerce Qatar partnered to celebrate and showcase Elvis Presley as part of their 2016 annual "Discover America - USA Week" from February 15-22, 2016. The event celebrates the spirit of American business, culture, history, entertainment, and American music history.

“The three-day event showcasing Elvis Presley focused on having an intimate conversation with both Jerry Schilling, a veteran music industry professional who was ​a trusted friend and confidante of Elvis Presley​and part of the famous Memphis Mafia entourage, and DJ Argo, ​an American DJ

for Sirrus XM Elvis Radio and host and representative for Elvis Presley Enterprise.

“The three-day Elvis Mania event also included a delicious “Elvis Jailhouse Brunch” and a showing of “Elvis On Tour” on a big screen.

“This year, we have invited award-winning and internationally acclaimed entertainer and ultimate Elvis tribute artist Dean Z to perform in a one night only exclusive event dubbed “A Tribute to Elvis Starring Dean Z” on April 13, 2017.

“Dean Z is well known for bringing the music that inspired great artists in the past. Artists such as Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, and many more come to life with timeless appeal and contemporary flavor through the enticing performance of Dean Z and his band.

“The Dean Z Show" is the first of its kind in Qatar and the Middle East and will represent an unrivaled musical celebration of a bygone era of rock 'n' roll, pop, and rhythm and blues, pulsing with boundless energy and youthful exuberance.

“A unique feature of his show is that Dean Z can customize aspects of his performance to cater for audience demand, including a sit- down song request portion of the show to make the audience more involved.” n

Event: “A Tribute to Elvis Starring Dean Z” Venue: The Club, St. Regis Hotel, Doha Date: April 13, 2017, Thursday Timings: Doors open 8:00 PM, show starts 10:00 PM Seating: First come, first served Ticket Price: QAR 350, which includes free drink of choice, canapes at your table, and a VIP meet and greet with Dean Z Buy tickets at: At the St. Regis Hotel, Doha / Online at Ayna Tickets, www.aynatickets.com For more details: Call +974 4446 0000 or +974 6663 9787 Dean Z’s website: www.deanzshow.com Qatar Elvis Fans: www.qatarelvisfanclub.qa Promotional Video: https://youtu.be/ DYq2J1MxMz4

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE NAME: ALEXANDROS PAPAZACHARIOU STORE SECTION: MULTIMEDIA TIME AT VIRGIN: THREE YEARS

Best Part of My Job: “It’s great to always be one of the first to know about new trends, new releases, and new technological stuff, and to be able to share it with customers has always been fulfilling. Seeing the big smiles on customers’ faces gives me such warmth to last for a day. Through the years, I have grown a lot in Virgin Megastore; in fact I have changed completely. My mentality has matured and I have become more professional, especially in dealing with customers and colleagues. Here in Virgin Megastore, we are provided with tools to further develop ourselves.”

MACBOOK PRO WITH TOUCH BAR It’s faster and more powerful than before, yet remarkably thinner and lighter. It has the brightest, most colorful Mac notebook display ever. And it introduces the Touch Bar — a Multi-Touch enabled strip of glass built into the keyboard for instant access to the tools you want, right when you want them.

The new MacBook Pro is built on groundbreaking ideas. And it’s ready for yours.

Retail Price: QR 11,499 (2.7 GHz) / QR 9,999 (2.6 GHz)

GOOGLE CHROMECAST ULTRA Stream up to 4K Ultra HD & HDR picture quality over your WiFi network with Chromecast Ultra, a streaming device that plugs into your TV’s HDMI port. Chromecast Ultra provides fast, reliable performance with minimal buffering and smoother streaming. Use your iPhone®, iPad®, Android device, or laptop to stream thousands of Cast-enabled apps.

Retail Price: QR 359

SENNHEISER PXC 550 WIRELESS BLUETOOTH HEADPHONE Turn every journey into a first-class experience with this smart travel companion. It offers Sennheiser’s renowned high-quality sound and NoiseGard™ hybrid adaptive noise cancellation in a sleek foldable design. An intuitive, ear cupmounted touch control panel and voice prompt system allow for a convenient selection of settings.

With up to 30 hours of battery life, the PXC 550 Wireless lets you travel around the world in comfort on a single charge.

Retail Price: QR 1,499

LACIE PORSCHE DESIGN 4TB The ultimate blend of design and performance. The LaCie Porsche Design Mobile Drive is more than just a place to store your files; it's a collaboration between one of the most renowned design firms in the world and LaCie. With the LaCie Mobile Drive, we've combined speed, design, and technology to result in a different breed of storage device.

Retail Price: QR 1,139

PIONEER DDJ-WEGO4 Take your first steps in the world of DJ-ing with the compact DDJ-WeGO4. Learn to mix seamlessly with tactile controls and jog wheels for scratching. Use the sampler, Hot Cues, and Pad FX inherited from professional hardware to bring more creativity to your sets. Just plug into your laptop, tablet, or smartphone and start to play.

Retail Price: QR 1,499

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Spotlight On Movies If you love thrilling action films, mind-boggling sci-fi scenes, and heart-thumping adventure-packed movies, you will be exhilarated this April. It’s time to gather your family and friends, sit back together, and enjoy these exciting movies.

THE FATE OF THE FURIOUS

POWER RANGERS

SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE

Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller When a mysterious woman seduces Dom into a world of crime and a betrayal of those closest to him, the crew face trials that will test them as never before.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi A group of high-school kids who are infused with unique superpowers harness their abilities in order to save the world.

Stars: Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Charlize Theron

Stars: Elizabeth Banks, Bryan Cranston, Becky G.

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy In this fully animated, all-new take on the Smurfs, a mysterious map sets Smurfette and her friends Brainy, Clumsy, and Hefty on an exciting race through the Forbidden Forest leading to the discovery of the biggest secret in Smurf history.

QH Fun Fact: The movie is set in New York City. It has also been suggested that the movie will honour Paul Walker's wish by going back to more street racing, instead of relying on special effects and huge action sequences.

QH Fun Fact: Bryan Cranston, who plays Zordon in the film, had previously voiced the monsters Twin Man and Snizzard in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (1993). Additionally, the first Blue Ranger Billy Cranston was named after Cranston himself.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Biography A true-life drama centering on British explorer Colonel Percival Fawcett, who disappeared while searching for a mysterious city in the Amazon in the 1920s.

Stars: Charlie Hunnam, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson QH Fun Fact: Brad Pitt was originally slated to star as Percy Fawcett.

THE LOST CITY OF Z 20

Stars: Ariel Winter, Julia Roberts, Ellie Kemper, Joe Manganiello QH Fun Fact: The original voice of Smurfette was played by American singer Katy Perry. In this rendition, American singer Demi Lovato plays Smurfette.

Genre: Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi A woman discovers that severe catastrophic events are somehow connected to the mental breakdown from which she's suffering.

Stars: Anne Hathaway, Dan Stevens, Jason Sudeikis QH Fun Fact: Anne Hathaway was in the second trimester of her pregnancy while filming Colossal.

COLOSSAL

ENTERTAINMENT

SUNDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Sangria Night Mykonos. From 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Enjoy the Arabian breeze as you dine by the pool overlooking the sea. Start your night with our secret Sangria recipe. This offer includes unlimited Sangria of your selection paired with a selection of Mediterranean mezze. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Where To Go chance to win exclusive prizes. No entrance | +21 to enter | Qatar ID or passport required | Smart casual.

For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Hoteliers & Airline Flight Crew Night The Lounge. From 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM. We’re offering all cabin crew and hoteliers a special price on selected beverages and snacks along with an exciting extended happy hour every Monday in The Lounge. Present either your business card or company ID and enjoy a night with us! Prices are à la carte. For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/doha.

Ladies Night Madison Piano Bar. From 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Save your Sundays, gorgeous ladies, for the most vibrant nights with our talented DJ! That’s not all, you will get a complimentary ONE welcome drink on the house. No membership required for ladies.

For more information, call 4428 8665 or 5518 8008.

LadieZ Night Z Lounge. Ladies get two complimentary vouchers from 9:00 PM till 11:00 PM while enjoying the impressive view of Doha Skyline. Plus happy hour the whole night! For more information, call 4405 3561 or email zlounge@zengodoha.com.

ORYX ROTANA

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

International Jazz Day Jazz Club. April 30. The world is getting ready for the biggest jazz event of the year, so are we at Oryx Rotana! In partnership with UNESCO in Doha, we will join the world wide celebrations of jazz. Join us on April 30 at Jazz Club to honor the best of jazz music together with our resident band N2 and their soulful beats that will make this International Jazz Day the one to remember! For inquiries and reservations, call 4402 3333.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Y.O.L.O (You Live Only Once) Crystal. From 10:00 PM onwards. With a night of all old school tunes with Resident DJ Greg, enjoy the recently launched drinks menu with special prices only on Sundays. For enquiries or reservations, please contact 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. For more information, please visit www.crystaldoha.com.

MONDAY

Movie Night Paper Moon at Jaida Square. At 8:00 PM. Enjoy classic Italian movies on our romantic and cozy terrace! For reservations or more information, please contact 4016 6000 or send an email to reservation. doha@papermoonmilano.com. You can also get in touch with your Virtual Waiter at 055150836. Visit http://www.papermoondoha.com/

TUESDAY FOUR SEASONS

Gentlemen’s Night Library & Cigar Lounge. Happy hour offering is extended throughout the evening only for gents, with a wider selection of manly sips and discounted price on selected stogies. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining. doh@fourseasons.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

All Night Happy Hour Pure. We don't limit happy for just an hour or two.

Enjoy happy hour all night with 30% off selected beverages. For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or email: doha.social@hilton.com.

Bazaar Night Sky View. Sway the night away in a sparkling themed ambiance while DJ / producer Tony spins vibrant English, Arabic, and French disco tracks taking you back to the old good days. No entrance fee and no minimum charge. For more information, call 4428 8204.

FOUR SEASONS

ORYX ROTANA

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON

Ladies Night Library & Cigar Lounge. Happy hour offering is extended throughout the evening only for ladies.

For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Blue Mondays Strata. From 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM. It’s time to separate the boys from the gentlemen. Experience Strata every Monday with the latest evening dedicated to the men of the town. Enjoy selected beverages priced at QAR30 while our DJ brings you the best beats on the 55th and 56th floors.

Join the grand draw every week and get the

22

Scarlett Tuesdays Jazz Club. From 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Calling all ladies for a revolution! Be part of the ladies night at the Jazz Club and enjoy four complimentary drinks, tantalizing snacks, and drinks from 5:00 PM to midnight. After that, enjoy a 50% discount on selected cocktails. Enjoy the night with our new South African jazz band N2. For inquiries and reservations, call 44023333.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Ladies & The City The Den. From 5 PM to 1 AM. Each lady will enjoy three tokens to exchange for selected beverages. For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email the.den@shangri-la.com.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Ladies Night Irish Harp. From 8:00 PM onwards. Ladies! Put on your high heels and start off your night with our live band, while enjoying five house beverages on us! Price is only QAR 100 for men including standard beverage. Free entrance for ladies + 5 free beverages. For inquiries and reservations, call 4485 3000 and for more information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

TORO-TORO

Balada Latina Lounge. From 7:00 PM to 12:30 AM. We have our Balada Latina nights featuring pure Latin beats on our Lounge & Terrace from 7:00 PM until 1:00 AM. Special discounted menu whole night on F&B! Latin American ID holders get one sip upon arrival! No membership needed. Prices starting at QAR 35.

For inquiries, call 4035 5101 or email torotoro@ torotorodoha.com.

WEDNESDAY ANTICA PESA

Jessica Set Collection Antica Pesa Lounge. From 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Bio: American Singer Jessica Gibson has been traveling the world for the past ten years spreading her passion for music through performance. Her sweet soulful voice is guaranteed to sooth and nourish your spirit. With a repertoire based on American jazz, blues, pop, and her own original music, she'll surely be able to offer something fun, groovy, and relaxing for everyone! For more information, call 4035 5300 or email info@anticapesadoha.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA

Ladies NIght Dunes. From 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. All ladies are invited to this mid-week celebration in the city. Head to Dunes for a classy celebration of our female guests. Enjoy unlimited select beverages complemented by upbeat tunes from DJ Katie Smiles. Please call 4448 1280 or 7021 8094 for bookings and inquiries.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Ladies Night Lava. Bring your girlfriends along to Doha’s biggest party. Enjoy a night of dancing to the latest beats by our resident DJ. Try our special fusion drinks while ladies enjoy complimentary sips. We also have something special in store for the ladies - join us as we select a lucky winner for a special prize every Wednesday night. For inquiries, please call 4484 4919.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Pink Wednesdays Strata. From 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM. This isn’t your ordinary ladies night, it’s a designer label ladies night! Join us at Strata for Pink Wednesdays where ladies enjoy a complimentary welcome drink from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM along with a chance to win a designer luxury bag. Pink Wednesdays at Strata just might be your lucky night! Free entrance for ladies, QAR 75 entrance for men after 9:00 PM. Dress code is smart casual.

For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Girls Night Out Glo Cocktail Bar. From 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM. All the lovely ladies receive two complimentary sips on arrival and a special discounted beverage menu starting from QAR 25 all through the night!

For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Ladies Night with Extended Happy Hour The Lounge. From 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM. All ladies can enjoy two complimentary signature cocktails along with an extended happy hour from the special menu until 12! For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski. com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Lady Doha The Rooftop. From 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Ladies will receive complimentary drinks all night if they collect their wristband before 10:00 PM. Featuring resident DJ Benjamin Greys with special guest DJ. Free entrance for all the ladies, for men QAR 100 inclusive of one drink. For guest list and table reservations, call 4446 0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THURSDAY ANTICA PESA

April 20 - 2nd Anniversary #BeItalianForOneNight From 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Antica Pesa is ready again to make the Be Italian For One Night Party on the occasion of its anniversary! The intention is to showcase the best Italian spirit with our monthly party! It's a party that defines a totally unique atmosphere and is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

At the Antica Pesa Lounge Bar, we'll have the happy hour prices, appetizers a la carte, and a Freddie DJ set. This hot spot location is becoming a nightlife landmark as a pre-night event and this monthly event is a nice touch to make people tuned up till late. All in the frame of the Gulf with the best view of the Pearl! For more information, call 4035 5300 or email info@anticapesadoha. com.

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON

Music Journey Pure. From 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM on the music menu is Hip Hop, RnB, with a little reggaeton in the mix. Name it – we’ll play it. For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or email: doha.social@ hilton.com.

EZDAN HOTEL

Sport Cafe. From 11:00 AM to 3:30: PM. Enjoy our lunch buffet while watching major sporting games live for only QAR 69 per person. For more information, call 4496 9600.

GRAND HYATT DOHA

Steve Aoki in Doha Beach Garden. Steve Aoki, iconic global Electro DJ, is coming to Doha for the first time and will be playing at the Beach Garden at the Grand Hyatt on April 13. Doors open at 7:00 PM with the show starting at 9:00 PM till close. Please visit: www. steveaokidoha.com for more information.

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Where To Go Arabian NIght Dunes. From 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Combining Arabian charm and grand hospitality, Dunes hosts Arabian Nights with DJ Karim behind the decks. Bring friends and enjoy a unique night.

Complimentary entrance for ladies, QAR 100 for gentlemen (includes one drink). Please call 4448 1280 or 7021 8094 for bookings and inquiries.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Thursday Vibes Lava. Make the most out of your Thursday and celebrate the end of your week with us at Lava.

Dance the night away with the latest electro beats from the resident DJ. Special drinks packages for QAR 200 and QAR 350. For inquiries, please call 4484 4919.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

DJ Liona At Irish Harp Irish Harp. From 11:00 PM onwards on April 6.

Experience the unforgettable atmosphere created

by DJ Liona at Doha's very own The Irish Harp.

Enjoy your favourite dishes while watching DJ Liona radiate her musical passion and high energy.

Prices: Free entrance for ladies, QAR 100 for men including one standard beverage. For inquiries and reservations, call 4485 3000 and for more information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton. com.

Cuban Night Latino Steakhouse. From 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Spark your Thursday nights as our live band takes you back to the legendary Buena Vista Social Club tunes. Price is at QAR 190 per person including soft beverages. For inquiries and reservations, call 4485 3000 and for more information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

A Tribute to Elvis Apr. 13 at The Club. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the live show start at 9:00 PM. Entrance fee of QAR 350 inclusive of one drink and canapes followed by the Meet & Greet after the show. For tickets, call 4446 0100, 6663 9797 or email marketing@ qatarelvisfans.qa.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Noodles Chinese Cooking Class Apr 14 & 21 - Shanghai Club. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM on Apr. 14 and 21. Get ready for our second challenge to become the next master chef.

Price at only QAR 250 per person. For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email shanghai.club@ shangri-la.com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Café Mambo Ibiza with Lovely Laura and Ben Santiago Apr 14 - The Rooftop. From 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM on Apr. 14. Back by popular demand! Get ready to dance to the beats of The Rooftop’s special guests, Lovely Laura & Ben Santiago, main duo residents of a very prestigious club in Ibiza. Call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com for guests list and table reservation.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Fridays on the Rise WAHM. From 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Apr 14 Featured DJ: 2 Plug 2 Play. Our line-up of International DJ’s takes the temperature to another level! Get ready to hit the floor with international DJ Paula spinning all the hits from Ibiza alongside Ramon on Sax live act. Apr. 21 Featured DJ: 2 Jody Bakker. Our line-up of International DJ’s takes the temperature to another level! Get ready to hit the floor with international DJ Jody Bakker thrilling everyone with her mixes of best house tunes.

Apr. 28 Featured DJ: 2 JUL & CO. Our line-up of International DJ’s takes the temperature to another level! Get ready to groove as international duo Jul&Co all the way from France will be gracing the stage with their unique performance on electro instruments. Opening sets by Resident DJ Bruno Rocharte. For enquiries or reservations, please contact 4453 5323 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@ whotels.com. For more information, please visit www.wahmdoha.com.

SATURDAY

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

FRIDAY

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

UB40 Tribute Night Paloma. From 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM on April 7. A UB40 fan? If you love to sing along to their greatest hits, our UB40 tribute night performed by Soul Shake Band is sure to let you enjoy a perfect night. Featuring hits such as Red Red Wine, Falling In Love With You, and many more. A la carte menu, special beverage packages available. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Hotelier & Cabin Crew Night Champions Sports Bar. From 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Present your valid Hotel / Cabin Crew ID and enjoy happy hour with entertainment allnight long as you watch your favourite sports over 49 screens. Prices start from QAR 30.

For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Easter Egg-Stravaganza Workshops Apr 8 & 15 - Quick Bites. From 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on April 8 and 15. Join the Easter celebrations with your kids for our EGG-citing treasure hunt and Easter egg decorating workshop. Price is QAR 95 for children aged 5-10 years, inclusive of snacks and refreshments buffet. For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining. com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Les Soirées Du Chat Noir La Mer Bistro. From 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Experience an absolutely amazing ladies gathering in a spontaneous-chic and relaxed ambience at La Mer Bistro. Exciting themes are set to spice up the night, to be announced every week through our social media page – https://www.facebook.com/

All listings are categorized per hotel, per day. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

lessoireesduchatnoir/. Special prices on selected beverages await the ladies who’ll come to bring the theme to life. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

THE TORCH DOHA

Chocolate Masterclasses Sky Lounge. From 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Continuing the success of the Belgian Chocolate Festival, we introduce The Art of Chocolate Making, where guests learn to hand craft individually pralines, get to know the origins of base ingredients, and practice necessary skills for successful home cooking. Workshops take place upon reservation with advance payment (limited seats available – 15 spaces per session). Price at QAR 100 per person.

Located on the 51st floor. For reservations, call 4446 5600 or email restaurant.reservations@ thetorchdoha.com.

TORO-TORO

Sunsets in Copacobana Lounge. From 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The deal? We invite you to sit back and relax while our saxophonist takes you back to Copacabana, playing bossa nova and samba chil sounds. Ladies receive two sips.

In addition, four options of promotion packages are to be chosen between 4.30 PM and 9.00 PM. For inquiries, call 4035 5101 or email torotoro@ torotorodoha.com.

DAILY & SPECIALS

DOHA MARRIOTT

Salsa – Mexican Cuisine Daily (except Sat.) at Salsa TexMex Restaurant. From 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Enjoy a lively slice of Mexico. Let the authentic picturesque setting and its colorful charm be an exciting backdrop for an evening full of rich flavours and spices and let our authentic Mariachi Band liven up your dining experience.

Whether you opt for your favorite fajita or try something new off the stone plate, at Salsa you will find everything you need for the perfect Mexican fiesta. For reservations, call 4429 8499.

FOUR SEASONS

Four from 4 Sun.-Thurs. at Elements. From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Whether it’s a week day after work or to end your weekends, Elements is the new best location for happy hour in town, featuring signature sips inspired by the four elements Fire, Air, Water, and Earth. Try our great value tapas from our snack menu and sip a G&T while the sun sets on the bay. Wednesday Ladies Night - Happy Hour from 4:00 PM onwards / Saturdays Happy Hour from 4:00 PM onwards for all. For inquiries and reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

45 and Below Daily at the Pool Grill. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The perfect place to hit in Doha. Relax and enjoy your drinks during happy hour at the Plaza by the pool, and choose bites from a delicious snack bar menu. For inquiries & reservations call

4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA

Happy Hour Daily (except Fri.) at Dunes. Join the happiest hour in town, extended to three hours from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM! Dunes invites you to sip your favorite drinks and signature cocktails. Please call 4448 1280 or 7021 8094 for bookings and inquiries.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Buckets and more Fri. & Sat. at Hive. Join us for rugby big games on the big screen from 2:00 PM-8:00 PM. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six brews for the price of four for QAR 200. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ ihg.com

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Mix & Fuse - Happy Hour Daily at The Lounge. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Socialize with the trendiest crowd in the city, sip your favourite beverages and cocktails, or take a bite from the refreshed options in the menu and benefit from the special prices on selected items. Prices are à la carte. For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/doha.

Happy Hour Daily at Z. Lounge (except Sunday). Indulge in a new culinary experience at the highest lounge in Doha with the Happiest Hour, including premium beverages. Timings: Monday the whole night, plus “LadieZ Night” / Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM – 12:00 AM / Thursdays: 5:00 PM- 7:00 PM. For more information, call 4405 3561 or email zlounge@ zengodoha.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Madison Piano Bar Mon.-Fri. at Madison Piano Bar. From 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Don’t miss the exceptional Arabic entertainment with new Lebanese singer Shady El Basha. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable! Membership required. For more information, call 4428 8665 or 5518 8008.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Easter Bunny Egg Hunt Apr. 12-14 at La Mer Restaurant. From 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon. Celebrate this year’s Easter like no other as the treasure hunt begins at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. Create lasting memories with your family and friends and leave a mark of your creativity by designing your own Easter egg for keeps. Price is only QAR 200. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8505 or 4484 8000.

Live@Admiral’s Thurs.-Fri. at Admiral’s Club. From 7:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Featuring special Irish band Coelta, followed by Over Your Head, Bluestone, Sand Tunes, Doha Band, 50 Degree, Dave Duchette, The Duned, Kimun the Randoms, and more, only in Admiral’s.

No entry fee, above 21 years. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8663 or 4484 8000.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

Ladies Night Out Fri.-Wed. at Mix Bar. Ready for the Best Ladies Night in Doha? Have fun and enjoy our Ladies Night and get three drinks free. For reservations, call 4492 1555 or email dining.doha@westin.com.

Happy Hour Every Single Night Daily at Mix Bar, Lounge & Terrace. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Mix Bar is the place to be after work for the best happy hour in downtown. As the weather is cooler now, grab a seat on their Terrace and enjoy sips from only QAR 30 all night long featuring live entertainment in a great al fresco atmosphere! For reservations, call 4492 1555 or email dining.doha@westin.com.

Hunters Happy Hour Daily at Hunters. From 5:00 PM onwards. Head to Hunters after work for the best happy hour in downtown. Sips from only QAR 25 all night long featuring live entertainment and a great atmosphere! For reservations, call 4492 1555 or email dining.doha@westin.com.

Happy Hour Sat.-Wed. at Sky View. From 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Enjoy an after-work happy hour at Sky View and take advantage of 50% off selected premium and regular drinks and appetizers. No entrance fee and no minimum charge. For more information, call 4428 8204.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Hora Feliz! Happy Hour Daily at El Faro. Sunday to Thursday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM and Friday-Saturday 3:30 PM-8:00 PM. Hola amigos! Unwind in the authentic Spanish ambiance of El Faro and get the chance to enjoy the 1+1 offer on selected delicious signature tapas and drinks. Extended Hora Feliz! on Fridays and Saturdays for more after-brunch fun! For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

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ORYX ROTANA

Happy Hour Daily at Jazz Club. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Enjoy a super offer of buy-one, get-one free on selected beverages and 30% off on appetizers daily.

For inquiries and reservations, call 44023333.

25

ENTERTAINMENT

Directory

Toro Toro Lounge Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Wahm W Doha

Nobu Four Seasons

Let us help you make the most of your weekend with our comprehensive directory of the hottest nightlife spots throughout the city. So grab your friends and head out for a night on the town!

Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

The Club The St. Regis Doha

4446-0000

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Beach Bar Lounge Four Seasons

4494-8888

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha

4429-1111

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5555

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shanghai Club Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

Boston's City Center Rotana

4445-8888

La Mer Bistro The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Crystal Lounge W Doha

Dunes The Grand Hyatt Glo Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4419-6100

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4484-8000

4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Grand Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

4428-1428

4408-7777

MIX Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4492-1555

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge Four Seasons

4494-8888

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

Illusion Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5757

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Z Lounge by Zengo Kempinski Residences & Suites

26

4405-3333

ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

FIRE STATION ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Picasso-Giacometti Ongoing until May 21: Curated by Fondation Giacometti Director Catherine Grenier with Associate Curators Serena Bucalo-Mussely and Virginie Perdrisot, this exhibition brings together more than 120 works by the artists Pablo Picasso and Alberto Giacometti. Paintings, sculptures, sketches and photographs are drawn from the collections of the Musée National Picasso and the Fondation Giacometti in Paris, as well as from exceptional loans from French and other international collections. The exhibition, which includes interviews with the artists, reflects two years of research undertaken by the Fondation Giacometti and the Musée National Picasso.

QATAR NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRETRE Brahms' First Symphony

Apr 29: To be conducted by Elias Grandy with Hassan Moataz El Molla on cello, Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will showcase Friedrich Gulda: Concerto for cello and wind orchestra, and Johannes Brahms: Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 68.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Imperial Threads: Motifs and Artisans from Turkey, Iran and India Ongoing until Nov 4: This exhibition brings a different perspective to the MIA’s collection by showcasing the connection between three major dynasties that marked the start of the early modern period in Islamic art - the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal empires. Imperial Threads highlights the cultural interaction, artistic influences, and materials exchanged between the empires, primarily from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

QM GALLERY KATARA JR – Répertoire Exhibition MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Chamber Music at MIA: Music from Frozen, Star Wars, and Other Movies

May 4: Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra presents the Cinemoon Ensemble: Violin - Lorena Manescu, Islam Nour El-Hefnawy, Raluca Stancel, and Mohamed Oweda; Viola - Merve Bulun Kenet and Ines Wein; Cello - Hassan Moataz El Molla; Double Bass - Radu Lucian Mihaescu; Flute - Jihoon Shin; Oboe - Mohamed Saleh; Clarinet - Tamás Marschall; Trumpet - Daniel Edelhoff; Trombone - Norbert Zakó; Percussion - Pascal Klaiber and Ferdinand Schäfer; Piano - Joris Laenen; Bass Guitar - Matteo Gaspari.

Ongoing until May 31: Qatar Museums showcase JR, a celebrated French artist. The exhibit features some of the key series that have made this artist famous around the world, as well as a video lounge where selected video works can be viewed.

JR is a world-renowned artist who combines art and engaged actions through large-scale outdoor installations, films, photographs, and videos, using the streetscape as his canvas and his inspiration, which he claims is the largest art gallery in the world.

27

ARTS & CULTURE

Leila Elhaj

Creating art with passion and enthusiasm Interview by Hairiya Santos

While QH advocates arts and culture, this great lady lives for it.

We scrawled down some of her thoughts in the hope that readers will be inspired by her journey and connect with their own creative nature.

W

hen speaking about artistic passion, at top of the list is Leila Elhaj. She is the present Chair of International Artists of Doha (IAD), founder of Hamad Medical Center Arts Group, and an active member of Qatar Fine Arts Association.

Whilst juggling all these roles, she still manages to perform with great fortitude as the senior administrative supervisor of Media and Public Relations for Hamad Medical Corporation. She is a social artist who advocates for the betterment of the society and environment.

28

QH: Please tell us about yourself. How did you get to where you are now? Did you have any formal training?

Elhaj: After obtaining my university degree in Healthcare Documentation and Medical Administration, I began to develop my hobby and passion for art. I then enrolled in art courses and fell in love with oil painting and continued to express myself through art. All that led to where I am today.

QH: What is your motto in life, especially as an artist?

Elhaj: To do things with passion and to always do what you believe in with enthusiasm.

QH: Can you share the story behind your first creation? What was the intention you had for that piece, and do you feel you were able to express it well?

Elhaj: It was when I shifted from oil painting to mixed media. One day, I found a beautiful piece of corrugated cardboard from an old printing cartridge box. It stimulated my imagination of a face; with it, I made my first artwork of recycled mixed media,

representing the struggles and suffering faces of patients due to their illness and heath condition. In addition to the cardboard, I included medical gauze, 3D textures, and some acrylic colours.

The new method I used in my art reflected very well the feeling of ache and suffering I was trying to bring forth. This discovery encouraged me to progress to another form of art expression.

QH: Which artists do you look up to and why? How do you compare your artwork to theirs?

Elhaj: I don‘t have only one artist in mind but many.

I am in love with techniques that combine colours, textures, and dimensions with creativity. In front of them my “heart is in my mouth and my mouth water.” My artwork is certainly influenced by this strong emotional feeling and through this developed my own sense of imagination and freedom of expression.

QH: What drew you to the arts and where do you find inspiration for your pieces?

Elhaj: My mother was very talented with various art skills so I was drawn to art and encouraged by her designs since childhood. I consider her my mentor and she taught me to love art. For my artwork I get my inspiration from my culture, surroundings, and environment.

Elhaj: I like to use in all my pieces the element of surprise to shock the viewer and make an impact with my artwork, so that the message I deliver stays in their minds.

QH: How do you describe your artistic style?

How do you define yourself as a social artist?

Elhaj: I believe it is unique because I am combining the medical and the social elements in a way that expresses my compassion.

Elhaj: I describe my style as a “modern green art artist” of emotional artwork, and categorize myself as a social artist by reflecting events and emotions of people to represent their experiences through my art.

QH: What is the subject that you feel most passionate about? Any favourite piece so far?

QH: Is there a compelling message that you want your pieces to convey?

Leila Elhaj has an abiding passion for promoting arts amongst the youth of today. To this end, she actively involves herself with some workshops in Doha, imparting her knowledge and helping people develop their inner artist. Some of her remarkable workshops held and being held here in Doha are: • Katara workshop on mixed media, 3D Jewelry (2016) • Qatar Foundation Community Services art classes, (2014-2015) • Childhood Cultural Center Qatar public kids workshop “I Read Campaign” (2014) • Alfaycal Without Borders “Destination Imagination” (2015-2016 -2017) • Youth Hub Qatar youth recycling workshop • Global Shapers - kids workshop for patients (2015 – 2016) • “Wheels and Heels” public kids workshop (2014) • Qatar Independence Schools four-day art workshop (2014-2015)

QH: What makes your design style unique?

Elhaj: I feel passionate about any subject of depth and perspective. For my favourite piece, it is very difficult to differentiate between my work; I did them all with a lot of fun, love, and imagination.

• Cancer Society patient workshop (2016) • Hamad Medical Corporation workshops : Qatar National Day, Qatar Sports Day, International Cancer Day, International Health Day (2013 -20142015-2016-2017) Leila Elhaj art shows and exhibits: • Solo exhibition in Italian Cultural Center (2000) • Solo exhibition in Alwakra Hospital, Qatar (2014) • Solo exhibition in Club Hotel, Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar (2015 -2016) • Permanent exhibition in Corporate Communications department, Medical City, Qatar (since 2008) • Solo “Recycling Art” exhibition with QAPCA, waste free environment event (2015-2016 -2017)

QH: How do you channel your frustrations, anxiety, and other negative emotions into your artworks?

Elhaj: They are channeled with the use of dark colors and a feeling of solitude. In one of my pieces I had a huge ocean and the boat was small - that for me expresses the feeling of loneliness.

QH: What advice can you give to aspiring artists?

Elhaj: My advice is to work with motivation and excitement and to develop a wide imagination.

QH: How do you plan to cultivate and promote arts in our society?

Elhaj: I plan to do that by doing workshops for the youth and training them with encouragement, and by stimulating their imagination and challenging them, in addition to sharing my experience of participating in various events.

• Recycling Exhibition at Qatar Foundation (2015) • Group exhibitions with Visual Art Center - Creativity Center for Girls-Qatar – QF International Artists of Doha exhibitions, Katara Walls Project- Qatar Fine Art Association (2014 -2015 – 2016)

Know more about Leila as an artist: Facebook: Leila Ben Chaieb Elhaj / International Artists Doha Instagram: leila_elhaj

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ARTS & CULTURE

Abdulaziz Al Dorani Promoting Qatar through his acting skills Words by Rabi’ah M.

This successful Qatari actor was exposed to filmmaking in the humble surroundings of his home, a situation that motivated him to make his entry into acting. He talks to QH’s Rabi’ah M. about his passion for his craft, his favourite actors, and why more Qataris should consider acting as a profession.

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hen you talk to Abdulaziz Al Dorani about film-making, you notice there is a burst of enthusiasm and thirst for learning more about the craft.

Previously he worked as a customer service officer at the Qatar National Bank, followed by his current position at the College of the North Atlantic Qatar as a student recruitment officer.

An established and renowned Qatari actor, he has made his country proud through many of his performances in films and other genres of performing arts.

Early beginnings His passion for filmmaking stems from a very young age; in fact, his first school of filmmaking was his home, as he explains: “I grew up in a house where movies were played every two days. Many films have been a part of my childhood so I was driven to become an actor imagining I would be seen in Hollywood, Bollywood, Europe, and the U.K.”

Born on December 13, 1988, Abdulaziz graduated with a diploma in Human Resources Management from the College of the North Atlantic Qatar.

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However, as time lapsed, Abdulaziz discovered there was no film industry in Qatar. But things soon took a new turn in his discovery journey, he points: “In 2011 I was with a friend who was invited for a casting call. I accompanied him to see what it was all about. Interestingly, I ended up signing up for the casting with Ahmad Al Baker, a director, and successfully bagged the role. After a couple of weeks, I started my first acting workshop with [actor] Ashraf Farah.”

Honing his skills The acting journey started off with him undergoing an extensive workshop to polish his skills. He says it was an interesting experience because he started from scratch and learned to further understand the basics of acting on the job, in front of the camera.

After that he attended an intensive improvisation workshop with Oscar nominee filmmaker Scandar Copti for three years.

By 2011, Abdulaziz’s first film Lockdown Red Moon Escape was released; he describes it as an “experimental film.” His first formal film was Bidoon- a short film shot in Qatar in 2012 which was screened in global film festivals.

During his journey, he was faced with tough decisions, sacrifices, and hardships, as he confesses: “I have sacrificed many things in the past years and I do not regret any of them. All these challenges have strengthened my passion for acting.”

Acting in Qatar What does Abdulaziz think about the changing face of performing arts in Qatar and the media industry overall?

He believes the performing arts in Qatar are limited in the creative and ideas context. Whilst there are platforms like the Khaleeji TV series and theater which share their similarity with American

soap opera, there have been changes in the mindset of the youth who are actively involved in social media. They are flourishing with new ideas and challenging themselves to excel.

Art is popular with Qataris in different genres, but it is still a challenge for the Qatari society to accept acting due to cultural barriers. Despite this, there are many Qataris who are interested in pursuing acting as a career and hobby.

Qatar’s arts and creative industry is still young, considering it witnessed the emergence of arts, films and cinemas in 1976 which means there is plenty of room for growth.

Up close and personal For a Qatari actor like Abdulaziz, he was fortunate to work with an international film director - Mira Nair – in the short film Nafas which was filmed in Qatar for the new Qatar National Museum. He describes the experience: “The film was about pearl diving in Qatar back in the 1920s, whereby the challenge was to shoot half of the film under water and on the boat in the middle of the sea.”

At present, he is working on an international series - Medinah - which will soon be aired.

When questioned who his favorite actors are, he smiles and says this is a tough question because every actor is unique. But he names a few: Anthony Hopkins, Leonardo Di Caprio, Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Dilip Kumar, Shahrukh Khan, and Amitabh Bacchan.

As an individual, he describes himself as someone who loves stories, creative ideas, and experimenting on new things. These are the key elements which drove him to become an actor.

The modesty demonstrated by Abdulaziz Al Dorani as an individual and the fact he firmly believes he would like to improve himself as an actor and do better work is a symbol of his thirst for learning more. n

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ARTS & CULTURE

QUMRA

Qumra 2017 Master and Two Time Oscar® Winner Asghar Farhadi discusses how he brings realism to film

Pointing to the future of filmmaking Words by Rubina Singh

Accomplished filmmakers, industry professionals, and emerging talents converged in Doha for the third edition of Qumra, a six-day event to nurture the new generation of filmmakers.

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he filmmaking industry in Qatar is still in its early phases and despite its growth, there's still a lot of work to be done to truly make it sustainable.

platform to showcase local films and discuss the status of the local filmmaking industry with all its opportunities, challenges and struggles.

In its third year, the festival featured some truly unique local productions highlighting stories of real people in Qatar with honesty, brilliance, and artistry.

But what about the local filmmaking talents who, against all odds, were able to get their documentary films made and are now working on their next projects?

The New Voices in Cinema Short Film Programme (Made in Qatar) consisted of five short films made by residents of Qatar that explored themes of home, youth, and fear. The films included I Have Been Watching You All Along by Rawda Al-Thani, Kashta by A. J. Al Thani, Our Time is Running Out

by Meriem Mesraoua, Red by Kholood Al Ali, and Turtles Are Always Home by Rawane Nassif.

Qumra, an initiative created by Doha Film Institute to celebrate modern master filmmakers and new voices in cinema, took place recently at the Museum of Islamic Art, offering a much needed

The Modern Masters and New Voices in Cinema screenings showcased films presented by Qumra Masters and critically acclaimed films funded by the Doha Film Institute.

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‘The more local your film, the more universal it is’, says Qumra Master Bruno Dumont

3rd Qumra Film Festival takes place in Doha with celebration of Modern Masters and New Voices in cinema

Document heritage or risk losing your history, reminds Qumra Master Rithy Panh The festival provided an opportunity for local filmmakers to gain from the experience of international film industry experts through bespoke mentorship labs and business meetings featuring Festival de Cannes Grand Prix winner Bruno Dumont, Academy Award winner Asghar Farhadi, critically acclaimed documentarian and Grand Prix Winner Rithy Panh, Argentina’s eminent filmmaker Lucrecia Martel, and internationally acclaimed award-winning producer Paulo Branco.

Fatma Al Remaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, welcomed the international gathering and highlighted the role of Qumra as “a modern project incubator and a specially curated industry matchmaker event that brings together global film experts for learning and for sharing experiences.”

“We established Qumra as an initiative that represents the culmination of our diverse funding, training, and development programmes. Our focus remains to cultivate the exchange of knowledge, ideas, creativity, and inspiration, and create a supportive and productive space for projects by emerging filmmakers to benefit from interactions with some of the most experienced industry professionals,” she said.

A new and exciting addition to this year’s programme, The Qumra Talks, featured three talks where ticket holders had the rare chance to speak to the filmmakers in questionand-answer sessions after the screenings.

In Partnership with Northwestern University in Qatar, Qumra Talks gathered leaders from the technology, film, television, and online worlds to weigh in on diverse topics. The panel-style talks were geared toward the evolution of technology in digital storytelling and distribution.

Mike Reiss, a four-time Emmy Award winner who has written for The Simpsons for three decades, gave a talk on Writing and Production Animation where he took the audience through his career, describing lessons learned along the way and demonstrating how all those skills come together in ‘The Simpsons’.

The third and final Qumra Talk delved into Al Jazeera’s strategic pivot towards digital. As Al Jazeera Media Network neared its 20th anniversary, the company realised that younger audiences, who were consuming their news and information on emerging digital and social platforms, represented both a major opportunity and a critical challenge.

The Simpsons’ writer and producer Mike Reiss takes Qumra Talks’ guests on a hilarious journey through his career This panel explored how Al Jazeera conceived and implemented a long-term strategic pivot from a traditional media organization to a digital-first media brand, including the launch of a digital division, the establishment of a product innovation and development practice, and the cultivation of a risk-taking culture.

This year’s selection included films focusing on intimate, heartfelt, relevant, and timely stories showing some of the best locally made films by emerging Qatari producers. With 14 enlightening and entertaining films, Doha audiences enjoyed some of the best cinema from around the world.

The key motive of this international gathering was to contribute to development of emerging voices in cinema in the country, and considering the standard of films made in Qatar, that is definitely on track.

Although progressing with baby steps, the Qatari film industry certainly seems to be making headway, and the quality of films, depth of subject, and the adept manner in which the stories were handled speaks well for its future.n

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COMMUNITY

Top Picks

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Arab Future Cities Summit

Apr 10-11: Organized by Expotrade Australia Pty Ltd, this conference encourages cross-learning amongst technologists, developers, urban planners and researchers, investors, engineers, policy professionals, and local government. The twoday summit will provide a unique opportunity for presenting ideas about smart city development and technology deployment.

QATAR NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE Expo Turkey by Qatar

Apr 18-20: Turkey and Qatar come together in strategic partnership to strengthen their economic ties and become an effective commercial power in the region. This three-day event puts that partnership on the world stage by showcasing investment and cooperation opportunities in the power and energy industry.

DOHA EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTER International Wedding Exhibition & Fashion Show Doha

Apr 25-29: Discover the latest wedding trends and connect with top-calibre bridal service providers at this five-day exhibition for the wedding and bridal industry.

ARTS & CRAFTS CENTER Guitar Lessons

DOHA EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTER Foodex Qatar

Saturdays: 45-minutes private session, total of four sessions for only QR 700. Certificate will be awarded for every level completed. For inquiries, please call 4486 5201 / 6686 7993 or email arts-crafts@live.com

Apr 2-4: This event aims to strengthen the Qatari food industry, enabling it to meet the standards of rising expatriate population, tourism, and developing tastes of Western foods. It also seeks to open new vistas for international food and beverage entrepreneurs to foray into the emerging markets of Qatar, and to provide an excellent platform for food and drink manufacturers as well as processing technology companies.

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COMMUNITY

Qatar International Food Festival A CULINARY JOURNEY Words by Wajeeha Malik Selected images by Jessie Palanca

Qatar Tourism Authority and Qatar Airways present the 8th Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) at Hotel Park in front of The Sheraton Hotel, on March 29 to April 8. The festival promises to be bigger than ever, offering new excitements along with some popular attractions from the past year.

Last year’s success During the seventh year of the QIFF, organizer Qatar Airways launched the Dinner in the Sky experience by welcoming guests inside its premium lounge to enjoy cuisine served by its award-winning hospitality sector.

Last year’s festival also featured attractions such as the QIFF Live Cooking Theatre, High Tea by the Bay, InstaMarket, Health Court, BBQ on a Dhow, and BBQ on the Bay, some of which may be repeated in this year’s QIFF.

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The Doha community will get a chance to taste dishes from all over the world and enjoy entertainment provided by celebrity chefs, as well as participate in competitions and family-friendly activities.

Last year’s QIFF was described by the organizer’s website as “a much-anticipated culinary event that highlights the country’s top chefs and diverse cuisine alongside international celebrity cooking experts.”

This year’s highlights This year, the event is introducing QIFF Menus, where many participating restaurants across Qatar will offer unique set menus priced from QAR 59 to QAR 179. Information can be found through the festival’s social media pages.

At QIFF, you might spot some famous faces from the region. Celebrity chefs Manal Al Alem, Chef Fawaz, Chef Roaya Saleh, and Turkish chef Nusret Gökce, who became famous as Salt Bae, amongst other culinary experts, are expected to make an appearance.

There will also be an interesting opportunity for those wanting to get an up-close and personal experience of expert cooking. An attraction of the festival is the “Chef’s Table” event, described as “an unforgettable culinary event led by world renowned chefs” who will cook on-stage. This part of the festival will take place in hotels around Qatar.

The event might also offer special cuisine from Germany, which is the 2017 Year of Culture partner.

The theme of this year’s campaign is along the same lines as previous years’, inviting attendees to discover a “Different Side of Food”.n For information and bookings: www.qifoodfestival.qa

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COMMUNITY COMMUNITY

Doha students conduct research to help improve the city’s infrastructure Words by Jenny Ortuoste Images courtesy of Compass International School Doha

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tudents at Compass International School Doha (run by Nord Anglia Education) have undertaken an ambitious project to collect data in order to understand problems facing Doha.

Working with researchers and experts from MIT as well as local organisations, students have collected and analysed data to research current issues in the city as part of the Data-Driven Curiosity Challenge.

Students will then use the results of their analysis to educate members of their school and community, helping them to understand and connect with the issue.

The challenge is the second phase of a three-part annual activity designed by MIT experts based on interdisciplinary STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) subjects and the scientific method.

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Working with experts from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), students at Compass International School Doha are using data to brainstorm solutions for current issues.

The first part of the challenge encourages students to think critically and explore their curiosity.

Students combine the skills of data analysis and communication in the second phase to explore present-day issues and bring awareness to the community.

The students are researching about: • Food wastage: Throughout the MIT STEAM project, students explore the amount of food that is wasted around the world. As a result, students encourage each other to eat the food they have or take it back home so it is not wasted.

“Food Police,” who are elected student council members, monitor waste and encourage students to eat healthier. Parents are also encouraged to support this by giving students the right portion sizes of healthy, nutritious, food and ensuring that it is practised at home.

• Traffic: Students study the distance and the average speed of journeys to school. They are now in the process of comparing the effect of departure time and distance on the data collected.

• Road safety: Students canvassed the school community asking them what they feel are major issues concerning driving in Doha. Next steps will be to focus on the key problems and explore ways to address issues related to road safety.

The final stage of the challenge will see students design and build a solution to their chosen local issue.

Dr Terry Creissen, Executive Principal of Compass International School Doha, said: "We have this exciting opportunity for our students to work with

About Compass International School Doha Compass International School Doha is a private co-educational day school situated over three campuses within Doha and part of the Nord Anglia Education global family of schools. The Rayyan and Gharaffa campus offers Early Years through to Primary education and the Madinat Khalifa campus offers Primary and Secondary education.

The English National Curriculum, International Primary Curriculum, and International Baccalaureate are offered at the school and specialist bilingual classes are available at the Gharaffa and Rayyan campuses.

Every child is encouraged to be ambitious in their learning and to exceed expectations. The school’s programmes include an embedded performing arts curriculum with The Juilliard School and a new approach to teaching STEAM with MIT.

MIT on local issues here in Doha. It’s a shining example of how we are opening our students’ minds by working with external researchers and local organisations. This in turn makes our students more prepared for life after school and gives them a skill set for their future.”

“I am delighted to see the MIT STEAM Challenge move into its second phase of operations,” said John Durant, Director of MIT Museum. “The new challenge being posted to Nord Anglia students will cultivate skills in data collection and analysis that are at the heart of effective problem solving in many areas of life and work. We look forward to working closely with Nord Anglia teachers and students over the coming months.”

practical approach to problem solving. Through this approach, students will develop key transferable skills such as creativity, critical thinking, curiosity, and communication, which can be employed across all academic subjects and in future careers.

This challenge is part of a wider collaboration between MIT and Nord Anglia Education. At the core of the collaboration is the reflection of MIT’s philosophy of “mind and hand,” which calls for a

The Nord Anglia-MIT collaboration launched in September 2016 in 13 inaugural schools and will expand to educate more than 37,000 students at Nord Anglia Education schools in following years. n

The school’s Global Campus also gives students opportunities to participate in school and worldwide activities including expeditions to Tanzania and Switzerland. Compass International School Doha is a member of Nord Anglia Education’s global family of 43 premium schools.

Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com/ schools/middle-east/qatar/doha Contact: Erin Jordan, Director of Admissions & Marketing / Tel: + 974 4034 9623 / Email: erin.jordan@nais.qa

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COMMUNITY

MUM IN DOHA: Breast milk or formula?

Words by Lynsey Riach Images by Carmen Rowantree of With a Little Grace Photography

As our newborn baby boy thrives from his diet of milk and yet more milk, the debate goes on. And let’s be honest, it’s an ongoing divide between mothers the world over, not just here in our Qatar community.

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hilst I choose to breastfeed again, I was surprised to hear many of my friends and family back home were astonished that I could do such a feat as breastfeeding in public in a Muslim country.

The ‘issue’ isn’t really about modesty or religion, it’s about personal opinion and each person’s stance on what they feel is appropriate public ‘behaviour’.

But can we really call a natural act of feeding your baby ‘behaviour’? It’s not so much of a choice to feed a hungry baby, is it? And if it happens to be in public, then that is where it happens to be. No mother will let her child go hungry, but with that comes the stigma attached to breastfeeding.

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With my first boy, I often found myself hiding in the car or public restrooms to feed him, with a blanket over his head or my whole entire body hunched up in a corner to ‘hide’ what I was doing. Feeding the soul that relies on me and only me – how can that be anything to be ashamed of? Yet the debate continues.

be discreet with their own clothing or by sitting in a quiet area of the establishment.

Yet most still felt awkward to do so here, mostly because of modesty reasons. I was left wondering if we can ever break through this. At least that is what these images by Carmen are trying to help showcase.

So as I educated those closest to me on the perils of feeding in public here, simultaneously a project by local photographer Carmen Rowantree of With a Little Grace Photography was happening. Her goal?

To ‘normalise breastfeeding’ specifically in public here in Qatar.

For me, how you feed your baby is up to you. I believe ‘fed is best’ and like most things parent related, it’s probably best not to cast judgement or opinion on others whilst we all try our best to do our best.

Now whilst it is quite accepted and perhaps even encouraged to do so here, she wanted to capture beautiful images of precious moments between mums and their babies out and about feeding in the place we all call home away from home.

Remember to be kind to mothers, you never know how many times she has been up in a night to tend to those who rely on her so heavily. Until next time, hug your babies tight and smile at the miracle that is life! n

It might feel a little daunting for some, but she hopes to encourage mums to feel more confident when broaching both the subject and acting it out.

Ultimately, Carmen just wants those who breastfeed to feel more at ease when doing so and for others to be that little more empathetic to the cause.

I spoke with many breastfeeding mothers and it became quite apparent that all (including myself) have never encountered a single negative experience, comment, or problem here.

Most of the women choose to frequent regular cafes and coffee shops with friends. Whilst some use a nursing apron or shawl to cover up, others just try to

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COMMUNITY

DOHA COLLEGE Surviving exams

information. It is important that they have regular study breaks so they can maintain their focus.

A study break (every 15 minutes) and some light exercise (walk up the stairs) re-engages the brain and helps in the retention of information.

Words by Dr Steffen Sommer, Principal, Doha College

Examination time is almost upon us. This is a stressful time in our child’s life, especially in the final years of school.

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t Doha College, we have celebrated the outstanding achievements of many students over the past years and watched them enter some of the world’s most prestigious tertiary institutions.

In fact, our students’ examination results have placed us among the most successful British curriculum schools in the UK. However, I know that these results were the culmination of hard work and determination by the students.

Some find the pressure of examinations more challenging than others. There are ways that you, as a parent, can help your child successfully navigate their way through the exam period.

Prepare a revision timetable. A clear, well planned and detailed revision programme is important to ensure

students are prepared. The revision plan should have a logical layout and be easy to follow. Our teachers will be advising students to do this, and there are resources online for further reference.

Know your child’s learning style. How we revise is something that will support us when we approach the examinations. It is important to have an understanding of your child’s learning style (e.g. visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, or logical).

Our children are all individuals, and one style of revision may not suit another.

Schedule study breaks. During the revision stage, our children absorb large volumes of

Keep your child hydrated. Your child will be able to tell you whether they study better at night or during the day. It is imperative during this time that they still maintain regular sleep patterns and a healthy diet. The temptation to turn to caffeinated drinks and fast food can be great. Despite the convenience, these will not support your child’s energy levels and concentration.

A combination of dehydration and tiredness is the antithesis of successful exam preparation. Mild dehydration can make tasks seem more difficult, as well as lowering concentration. If tasks are perceived as difficult, anxiety levels will increase.

Ensure enough sleep. Sleep is the only time the body can rejuvenate, repair, and prepare itself. As a parent, I know that it is virtually impossible to keep a child from their mobile phone or other devices.

However, research shows that answering late-night emails can increase tension in the body and the ‘glow’ from screens can affect the release of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin.

Provide calm and support. And finally, I urge you to be calm and supportive. We recognise that is a critical time in their lives, but a supportive family environment will significantly reduce the level of stress your child may feel.

I extend my best wishes to all students undertaking their exams and look forward to hearing stories of their outstanding success. n

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FASHION & LUXURY

Carolina Herrera s THE BOW:

Spring/Summer 2017 Style Trend Bows tied together the famed designer’s latest collection, from black leather biker jackets to crocheted dresses, to present a full wardrobe of simple yet elegant fashion.

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laying with volumes defines the Spring/Summer 2017 CH Carolina Herrera Collection. A parade of pure and simple lines for evening dresses contrasts with oversize pieces for daywear.

Silhouettes are more relaxed for summer, with details of flounces to give movement and large unstructured bows that delicately embrace the body. This is a collection that pays tribute to one of the most recognizable signature codes of the brand: the bow.

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FASHION & LUXURY

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n expression of pure femininity is represented in the boat-neck, Bardot, and halter neck tops that subtly reveal the shoulders. Urban pajama looks, wide leg pants, and fluid dresses with crepe flounces accompany denim pieces for daywear looks. Evening dresses in duchesse fabric follow the same lines with flounces and bows.

The colour red, key to the CH Carolina Herrera collections, is combined with oranges and intense blues in a collection where neutral tones, from sand to camel, predominate. Polka dots and nautical stripes, hallmark of the House, are mixed with floral prints with jasmine as the key player to conclude the collection.

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FASHION & LUXURY

alice + olivia 7 1 0 2 r e m m u S Spring/ C O L L E C T I O N

by Stacey Bendet

Following a mystic and romanticroad for style, Stacey Bendet’s Spring/Summer 2017 collection for alice + olivia is set in the romantic mystic gardens of Bomarzo in Rome, where the power of interpretation wanders free.

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nspired by 18th century Tarot cards and the elements of the sun, moon, earth, air, and fire, the collection represents the power of positivity and the ability to connect with one’s higher self to venture into a divine yet mysterious rainbow-filled fairytale.

For Bendet, this collection balances a modern take on vintage Italian romance with a touch of the strong, modern, transcendent woman who roams the city’s streets.

Comprised of an eclectic mix of pieces and a sharp palette of rainbow tones amongst black, white and neutrals, the collection projects a serene fantasy with a hint of darkness.

The collections’ foundation is built on the juxtaposition of ethereal silhouettes in bright hues with dark complements: rainbow tones of pink, poppy, green, indigo, and violet are contrasted with graphic black and white stripes.

The intricate details feature lace and embroidery, amid ribbon trims and hints of ‘80’s-inspired studs and gem embellishments. Beaded and printed birds illustrated by artist Elizabeth Graeber allude to the idea of letting oneself roam free while playing in the magical gardens.

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FASHION & LUXURY Silhouettes range from classic embellished evening dresses, wide leg pants including gaucho shapes, patchwork and studded bombers, sexy one shoulder cuts and ‘night out’ tops, embroidered jackets, and jumpsuits that can be interpreted as modern day gowns.

A range of diverse separates allow for a creative take on the suit and the freedom to mix, match, and layer effortlessly, providing a sense of individuality.

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Textured accessories show attention to detail, continuing the colorful palette and refined details seen throughout the ready-to-wear.

Handbags include Tarot card-printed oversized leather clutches, large structured colorblocked bowlers with brass detailing, and wood combo box clutches.

Bendet debuts an exciting addition to her already versatile collection - a playful assortment of eyewear building on the idea of a woman’s power to style her own look.

Reminiscent of Bendet’s signature “Stace Face” look, the collection consists of sunnies in bold shapes including oversized cat eye, butterfly, and ‘80’s-inspired round frames.

Rhinestone, stud, and color-blocked details bring original elements to the fun silhouettes.

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A strong woman not only has the power of interpreting life’s messages, but seeks instant gratification when defining her vision.

Bendet makes that possible this season with a collection of “see now, buy now” pieces, including several classic silhouettes such as a black jumpsuit and a color-blocked sweater.

Within the “see now, buy now” collection, Bendet introduces the “#LoveYourself” capsule, comprised of additional classic pieces with an indulgent twist. #LoveYourself styles include a white button-down shirt and black leather jacket with phrases like “Love Yourself” and “Always Right” embroidered across the back, and a variety of customizable denim pieces that can be personalized with monogrammed phrases, names, or initials.

All alice + olivia “see now, buy now” pieces can be purchased immediately on aliceandolivia. com, at alice + olivia boutiques, and through select retail partners.

Discover more about this amazing collection at www.aliceandolivia.com

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FASHION & LUXURY

“In Love With Fashion” with Bollywood Star

KATRINA KAIF Interview by Marian Nagy

QH had the pleasure to meet and chat with the Splash brand ambassadress and cover the launching of the Splash Spring/Summer 2017 fashion show in Mall Of Emirates, Dubai.

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n line with its slogan “In Love with Fashion,” Splash mesmerized event attendees and Middle East fashionistas with a fabulous collection of urban and chic ready-to-wear clothing.

Making the event more exciting was the presence of Bollywood star Katrina Kaif in a lacy white dress, who not only charmed the attendees with her beauty but also surprised the fans with her wit as she answered the questions thrown by the media.

QH: What do you like most about Splash?

Katrina Kaif: It’s very wearable and it relates to every woman. It’s very feminine and practical.

QH: What can you say about the brand in Dubai?

Kaif: They have got an amazing team working [there], very passionate about what they do.

Starting from the management down to every single person working in their respective sections, all are supporting and doing the best they can offer. The company, the brand as a whole is as one, a great team.

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QH: Do you have any inclination towards designing in the future?

Kaif: Not for the time being. I think it’s something that has to come at the right time, and you need to be very passionate about it, otherwise it’s going to affect your name and then it will be misleading to you and to your supporters. For now I am very happy about my association with Splash [as brand ambassador], we support each other. They do a great job, they have a great team doing research and executing the right tasks to level up the quality of the brand.

QH: Will we see you in Splash fashion shows in Qatar? Any message for your fans in Qatar?

Kaif: A big hello to everyone in Qatar, I haven’t been there for a very long time. I am sure it will be wonderful to go to Qatar. Splash is doing an amazing job there. Congrats to the team! And see you guys, hopefully soon.

Splash as a fashion brand Splash is the Middle East's largest fast fashion retailer, and part of the Landmark Group, one of the biggest retail conglomerates in the Middle East, India, and Africa.

Founded in 1993 as a single brand store in Sharjah, Splash currently operates over 220 stores and 55 brand stores (Lee Cooper, Bossini, Kappa, and others) across 14 countries.

Showcasing popular collections for men, women, and teens, Splash's existing product portfolio includes a uni-brand concept across its stores, providing a comfortable and easy shopping environment.

The brand also houses a gamut of international brands under its portfolio like Lee Cooper, Bossini, ELLE, and Being Human, among others.

Splash has also announced international icons Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif as brand ambassadors in the Middle East while celebrating fashion in its true sense with its tagline “In Love with Fashion.”

As a brand Splash believes in constantly being a trend-setter and has successfully created some of the biggest and most popular brand properties and events. These include bi-annual fashion shows and the annual Calendar launch which have become part of the region’s social scene.

Website: www.splashfashions.com Facebook: SplashFashions Instagram: @splashfashions Twitter: @SplashFashions YouTube: Splash Fashions

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GAP

KIDS SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Some fun. . e r u t n e v d a e m So Fashion-forward GAP presents their latest for toddlers and kids: light and comfortable for the active and adventurous, with a good sense of style and charm just right for the sunshine seekers. Hop right into spring and summer with these fresh and fun styles!

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FASHION & LUXURY

Beauty Buzz beauty essentials for the season

With spring just around the corner, it’s time to find out about the variety of beauty and skincare products suitable for your skintype this season. QH shares a carefully curated selection that will help you achieve and maintain healthy skin and prep for a fresh, radiant, look.

Guerlain Abeille Royale New Eye Cream Instantly smoothens and sculpts the eye area, offering targeted action for an intense treatment to replenish the eyes’ youthful look with each application.

Lancaster Sun Preparing Hydrating Water To be applied 15 days before heading off to the sun, this product has been developed to prepare the skin so that it will tan better by improving the skin’s natural sun adaptation ability.

Skin Care Make-up Forever Ultra HD Skin Booster A pro secret that not only revives tired skin with its hydra-plumping serum, but also boosts natural skin radiance and luminosity, providing a healthy glow. It also contains a collagen booster which multiplies collagen cohesion for a visible plumping effect, leaving the skin looking revitalized.

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Givenchy Hydra Sparkling Moisturizing & Embellishing Mask With this intensely hydrating mask, the skin will appear smoother, more luminous, more elastic, as if plumped from within.

Marc Jacobs Le Marc Liquid Crème Not just another liquid lipstick, Marc Jacobs' new formula is super long-lasting, non-drying, and the colour pay-off is seriously impressive.

Clinique High Impact Mascara This multi-benefit mascara adds maximum volume with definition and length. A specially developed brush and formula work together to dramatically thicken lashes while separating to prevent clumping.

Giorgio Armani Power Fabric Foundation A liquid foundation that gives a long-lasting glow without a greasy oily effect for a lightweight velvet matte finish. It conceals imperfections as it dresses the skin, enhances facial features, and erases all signs of fatigue. With SPF 25, it offers effective daily UVA and UVB protection.

Make-Up

YSL Baby Doll Kiss & Blush Duo Stick Two colours, playful and enigmatic, to be used singly or blurred together, offered in a compact balm that glides easily over lips, cheeks, or both. It completes your look with a smooth matte finish to bring lips and cheeks to life.

LancĂ´me Rose Powder Illuminator A powdered highlighter shaped like a baby rose, with petals covered in a soft shimmering powder. Dust your brush in a circular motion on top of the petals to pick up the pigment. Add it to your cheekbones, eyelids, bridge of the nose, or anywhere else you want to brighten (we also love to do our cupid's bow).

Chanel Coco Code Blush Harmony Limited edition. Matte and satin textures collide in this versatile powder of peach, honey, caramel, and pink-red shades. Multi-tasks as a highlighter, bronzer, and blush for a customized look.

Dior Color Gradation Eyeshadow Palettes Each palette features an infinite amount of color possibilities in both pastel and intense shades as well as matte and satin finishes.

Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer Delivers natural-looking coverage and high-performance correction in an oil-free cream formula that smooths and conceals imperfections with a light-diffusing effect that provides soft-focus blurring of dark circles, redness, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, blemishes, and acne.

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FASHION & LUXURY

The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2017

Under the Patronage of the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the exhibition flourished as a journey towards the heart of an enchanting tale crafted around unique beauty, legacy, and craftsmanship.` QH reports on the glamorous revels.

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A story of beauty, opulence, and elegance unfolded this year as the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2017 spun the tale of a lavish journey for the most celebrated local and international brands and retailers of jewellery and watches, as well as for collectors, designers, and others who appreciate fine watches and jewellery.

Exclusively presented and housed at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center last February, with the theme “Once upon a time… luxury,” the six-day show attracted 15,000 visitors from all walks of life from Qatar and around the world.

The event also served as an opportunity of a lifetime for brands and exhibitors to display a myriad of exceptional artisanal and luxurious collections, some readily available for purchase. Every exquisite piece showcased presented extraordinary history, legacy, and impeccable artistry.

Unique visitor experiences enabled more than 500 people to delve into the world of artisanship, creating special memories at watch-making workshops

by Objectif Horlogerie and portraiture sessions at Studio Harcourt.

Spotlight on the Finest Privileged to have been accommodated for a quick interview with some of the prominent leaders of the jewellery and watches industry in Qatar on the occasion of the event, QH penned down some of their thoughts about their brands and their participation in the exhibition.

Feature coordination and interview by Marian Nagy Selected images by Jessie Palanca

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FASHION & LUXURY

Collection from Al Fardan Jewellery Mr. Ali Hussein Al Fardan, Vice Chairman of Al Fardan Group: “First of all, I want to say to Qatar Happening, ‘Welcome to our booth,’ and of course we welcome everybody.

“With much support from the Qatari government, the MOI in particular, in terms of the provisions for necessary facilities and customs procedures, our participation has been remarkably successful. Also, special mention to Qatar Airways for providing special rates to the participants of DJWE. “Our booth is full of eminent brands of which we are proud. The 2017 exhibition is much bigger. Backed fully by the Tourism Authority, [the number of] exhibitors has increased dramatically compared to previous years.

“I have a long standing relationship with each brand, like Chopard, Vacheron, Piaget, Girard Perregaux, etcetera, and all of them are close to my heart. But what I expect for Girard Perregaux, it’s already a very strong brand and it shows a much more greater promise in the future. I want to tell everybody to wait and see on what Girard Perregaux will be coming up with.”

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Mr. Nabil Abu Issa, Vice Chairman of Blue Salon “It’s been thirteen years and still counting. We have been here from the first round of DJWE and we will still be here [in the future]. Seeing the exhibition evolve each year, it has become more luxurious… we hope it will be better this year as the economic situation in Qatar is better than in other countries.

“We have our own loyal customers who come the whole year round but in DJWE they come to see what’s new, especially last month when the exhibition was in Geneva. Some brands had new pieces that were launched in Geneva, some for sale and some pieces just for people to see and order because they’re not ready for purchase.

Collection from Blue Salon

“What we are looking to do here is build new clients for Blue Salon and it happens every year that we meet a few clients and gain them for the whole year as loyal customers.

“My favourite brand? I cannot be biased, everything I have here is my favourite. When we look for brands to add to our portfolio, we make sure they don’t compete with each other; we make sure they are all different styles. If you ask about my favourite, I have a favourite in each brand, especially for the high end ones. I personally choose what we should and shouldn’t have in consultation with the experts on our team.”

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FASHION & LUXURY

Collection from Fifty One East

Collection from Mouawad Jewelry and Watches

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Collection from Al Muftah Jewellery

For the latest about Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition: Website: www.djwe.qa Facebook: Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition Instagram: djweofficial Snapchat: djweofficial Twitter: @djweofficial YouTube: Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition

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FASHION & LUXURY

HAUTE HOME e l y t S

by Roche Bobois Paris

As the seasons constantly change, so should your home’s look. QH brings you inspiring interiors with this latest spring/summer home design collection by a world leader in luxury furniture.

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rench luxury furniture designer Roche Bobois Paris has harnessed the creativity of renowned designers and architects and

shares their new perspective on spring/summer home design through this exclusive collection.

SEQUIOA design Erwan Péron

In the Garden Spring is in the air! It’s that

SEA BREEZE In woven nautical rope, the Wishbone armchair designed by Antoine Fritsch and Vivien Durisotti is inspired by wide coastal spaces and boats. The new outdoor rocking version gives you the peaceful feeling of relaxing on a boat.

time of year when the sunshine encourages us to lounge outdoors, relax, and breathe the fresh air.

HEXAGONE design Eric Gizard

Natural Beauty Flora and fauna are honoured for their simplicity, spontaneity, and beauty. The designs for these pieces are inspired by the lushness of the forest and the oddities of nature.

MUCIDULE / ORGANIQUE-CHIC. You can see the shape of a mushroom or jellyfish in this nature inspired three-piece collection designed by Antoine Fritsch & Vivien Durisotti. The base swerves up like a stem, the irregular shapes resemble the imperfections found in nature, and the engravings on the top resemble veins.

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ESCAPADE. Designed for outdoor or indoor use, this inviting sofa is perfect for relaxing. With its alluring shape, XXL depth, adjustable backs, small occasional tables, and Missoni fabric, it’s a perfect combination created by Sacha Lakic.

Going Green No more neutrals. Green is a vibrant but soothing colour that creates a calm but elegant energy. Often overlooked, make a statement by using cool and bold green hues in your dĂŠcor.

BACKSTAGE THE BIG SLEEP. Designed by Roberto Tapinassi and Maurizio Manzoni, this bed makes a statement with its bold and elegant asymmetrical base. It also features a velvet headboard with a leather border and vertical bands. The headboard curves in at the ends, creating the feeling of an intimate alcove.

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FASHION & LUXURY

ASTER. Constructed of repeating Y shapes in solid oak, the base can be adjusted to increase or decrease the dimensions of the top. This mathematical design was developed

by Franco-Algerian designer Reda Amalou.

Northern Wind Calmness, simplicity, and clean lines: this collection is inspired by Scandinavian design. It features pieces that are contemporary, timeless, original, and refined.

DOLPHIN. Designed by Cédric Ragot, the seat of this swivel armchair is suspended over a beautifully sculpted piece of wood. The seat’s foam padding provides comfort, softness, and coziness.

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INITIATIVE. Designed by Giorgio Soressi, this sofa offers finesse with its lines, comfort with its seat, elegance with its leather, and style with its graphite aluminium base. It’s a focal piece for any living room.

ITINERAIRE. Design Philippe Bouix.

In All Its Splendor Shine and reflections give energy to this collection of furniture and objects. It breaks away from the norm by playing with glass, light, and hidden subtleties.

ALLUSION. Designed by Roberto Tapinassi and Maurizio Manzoni, this sofa combines elegance, simplicity, and purity. This piece mixes the finesse from its piping, softness from its round shape, subtlety from the tube base, and usefulness from the adjustable backs.

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FASHION & LUXURY A Sense of Balance Moving without ever losing balance. The search for a completely balanced style is perfectly mastered in these pieces.

SCENARIO. Designed by Sacha Lakic. Upholstered in SOAVE leather, corrected, embossed grain, pigmented finish. Contrasting stitching. Double depth backs with adjustable mechanism, mechanical armrest with lateral partition.Â

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A Touch of Classic The Nouveaux Classiques collection continues to evolve but is always timeless. The highquality furniture in this collection combines sleek designs with perfect finishes.

PROFILE. Designed by Roberto Tapinassi & Maurizio Manzoni (Nouveaux Classiques collection)

On the new Roche Bobois 2017 collection: “We are introducing creations that are original but not obtrusive, unique but not too bizarre. When you play with greens or different finishes, nothing should be too overpowering, nothing should clash.

We keep a sense of softness and playfulness in our pieces, using both graphic and visual aspects.”

Nicolas Roche, Collections Director

About Roche Bobois Paris: Celebrating French art de vivre around the world Roche Bobois is a world leader in furniture design and distribution. Working closely with renowned designers such as Ora Ito, Cédric Ragot, Sacha Lakic, Christophe Delcourt,

“We have blended past trends - the ten-year anniversary of the Legend Bookcase - with current trends - the creations designed by Jean Nouvel. These looks reflect two of Roche Bobois’ signature aesthetics.

and Stephen Burks, and with Haute Couture

“First, we modernised the Legend without sacrificing nostalgia. This bookcase, designed by Christophe Delcourt, has become one of our iconic pieces. Second, we explored the boundaries between architecture and design with creations by Jean Nouvel.

Roche Bobois offers a broad range of exclusive

“We are continuing to create close connections between art and culture. We are also continuing our dynamic development internationally.”

workshops.

Gilles Bonan, CE

Facebook: Roche Bobois Qatar

fashion houses such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Missoni Home, and Christian Lacroix Maison, made-to-order designs, manufactured with a high level of customisation in small European

Website: www.roche-bobois.com

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FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

DOHA MARRIOTT Street Food

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Korean Bbq Nights

Thurs. From 6:30pm to 11:30pm. Thursday nights just got even better at Doha Marriott’s new street food offering! For only 335QR per person including unlimited beverages, enjoy a selection of your favorite foods from the streets of India, South East Asia, Mexico and more. Let the sizzle and aroma of our live cooking stations entice your senses bringing back memories of faraway places. Prices are QR 240 (regular street food) and QR 335 (full package street food). For reservations, call 4429 8499.

Daily at Admiral’s Club. From 5pm to 11pm. Enjoy the complex flavors of Korean barbecue in Admirals for the whole month of April as it features tasty “Galbi” – Barbecue Beef Spare ribs, Sesame Chicken and Salmon Bulgogi served with spicy cucumber salad and kimchi to excite your palate. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8663 or 4484 8000.

ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL Buffet Lunch

Fri.-Sat. at Al Dirwandi Restaurant. From 12:30pm to 4pm. Enjoy with the family the new buffet lunch at Al Dirwandi. A wide selection of starters, main courses and dessert along with live cooking stations and special activities for kids. QR 120 per person, kids below 6 years for free, between 7-12 years 50% discount. For more details, contact 4403 8727 or e-mail: H9537-FB@accor.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Fridays Brunch NANDO’S The Carnival just got cooler

Daily. Slurp! For a limited time, get a free Mango Cooler when you order an Espetada Carnival in the new Mango & Lime flavour. Offer not valid with any other voucher, discount or promotion.

Fri. at Zengo. From 12:30pm to 4pm. When it comes to weekend and spoiling yourself, Zengo has a proposal. Spend the Friday on the highest restaurant enjoying a Sharing Brunch with the best of its menu. For more information, call 4405 3560 or email zengo@zengodoha.com.

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FOOD & DINING

LE CENTRAL Where to go in Doha for the best sushi and seafood Words by Nikki Palmero Pictures by Jessie Palanca

La Cigale Hotel turns Monday nights into Sushi and Seafood Nights, where you can eat your fill of the freshest catch in town. QH savours the sea’s bounty at the hotel’s Le Central restaurant.

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njoying a buffet dinner with friends is a treat, but to have a sumptuous sushi and seafood buffet with friends is definitely a feat.

As everybody in Doha starts their busy work week either on Saturdays or Sundays, a Monday night treat is a much welcomed delight. And what better way to enjoy such a treat than to have a superb sushi and seafood dinner buffet? Le Central has this to offer.

Le Central Restaurant in La Cigale Hotel offers one of the best, if not the best, authentic sushi in town.

To regale your tastebuds even more, it now has a Sushi and Seafood-themed buffet every Monday night starting at 7:00 PM.

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If for any reason you crave for pizza and pasta while in a seafood buffet, you won't be disappointed one bit as they do have pizzas topped with everything seafood. The Salmon Rondelli, one of Le Central’s stellar dishes, is pasta with salmon rolled in a very flavorful, creamy sauce. These are among the tasty diversions in a load of seafood selections.

But then, as sushi and sashimi lovers, it was the sushi that easily hooked us. We helped ourselves to the boat tray of their handcrafted sushi rolls and sashimi made from the freshest of ingredients, perfectly prepared and seasoned by the master chef.

The dessert selections are good too. Trays of cakes and pastries, assorted sweets, ice cream, as well as platters of fruits in season will totally gratify your sweet tooth.

It was altogether a pleasurable and satisfying dinner on a Monday night in Le Central. For those craving to start the week afresh with the freshest food cooked to perfection, this is the place to go. n Promotion: Le Central Open Sushi & Seafood buffet, every Monday night Hours of Operation: 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM Price: QAR 249 per person inclusive of salad bar, dessert buffet, and one house beverage Address: 2nd floor, La Cigale Hotel, 60 Suhaim Bin Hamad Street, Al Sadd Area, Doha

With the place's prime and busy location, not to mention its proximity to each of our offices, friends and I decided to give it a try.

For reservation or enquiry: +974 4428 8771 / info@lacigalehotel.com

From the hotel's lobby, a staff ushered us into the lift and on to the 2nd level where Le Central is located.

The restaurant is elegantly decorated, and its indoor balcony has a view to Al Sadd area and its adjoining busy streets. Greeted and welcomed by the friendly Restaurant Manager, he gave us information on how the themed nights came about and what entrees to expect.

An abundance of dishes was offered us: oysters, king crabs, mussels, and almost any other seafood an aficionado can ask for. They also have a variety of salads, different kinds of fresh bread, and crispy shrimps, fish fingers, fried calamari, as well as crab kebbeh among the choices. From hammour sliced so thinly it’s almost transparent to the sweetest shrimp that melts on your tongue, it’s all here. You may ask the Chef to grill them for you or cook whichever way you want. Now that's even greater for a traditional buffet.

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SPECIAL FOODPROMOTION & DINING

QH Chef for a Day Challenge

Gianrico Esposito

Images by Jessie Palanca

Each month, QH chooses someone to be a Chef for a Day. He or she will work under the keen eye of a master chef, cooking carefully selected recipes that you can prepare at home.

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his April, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa General Manager Gianrico Esposito accepts the challenge and shares his family recipes, becoming Hunters Room & Grill Chef for a Day.

Hunters Room & Grill is the signature grill restaurant at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. They have an open kitchen for guests to watch the chefs prepare succulent steaks, making it an ideal place for our activity. Executive Chef Bulent Canbolat will observe Gianrico’s performance.

THE CHALLENGE Chef Bulent looks closely at GM Gianrico’s moves as he chooses fresh ingredients for his three-course menu. Gianrico knows that if he chooses dishes based on his Italian heritage, his cooking will be a success.

THE MENU GM Gianrico opts to make favourite dishes from his family’s tried-and-tested recipes. A native of Napoli, Italy, he says that his hometown is best represented by a selection of choice seafood. He names this menu, “Visiting Home”: Starter: Spaghetti Alle Vongole (Al dente spaghetti with fresh clams) Main: Acqua Pazza (Seabass and chopped tomatoes in olive oil) Dessert: Cannoli Siciliani (Sweet paste crust and ricotta cheese filling with pistachio) THE RESULTS For me, this section of the magazine is the most fun to work on. It is a privilege to

witness the laughter and joy in the interaction of the hotel or restaurant’s team as they meet the QH challenge.

The results of this cooking exercise are fantastic as the Chef for a Day always surprises me with their delicious family recipes that we too can try cooking at home.

Apart from members of the QH team, some members of Westin Doha Hotel team were also invited to taste GM Gianrico’s menu. Among the Chef for a Day’s guests were Ammar Samad, Hotel Manager; Simone Stanco, Food & Beverage Director; Tulin Yilmaz, Revenue Management Director; and Stephanie Otto, Marketing & Communication Specialist.

When the food was ready, we are all excited to savour our first bites. The Spaghetti Alle Vongole was absolutely gorgeous, simple yet full of taste, fresh and very Mediterranean. The Acqua Pazza, cooked with basic ingredients, was also full of flavours that melded spectacularly. The sweet finale was also a thumbs up - crunchy, creamy, and perfect. This meal will make your guests say, “Molto gustoso…perfetto!”

Congratulations to General Manager Gianrico Esposito - he exceeded everyone’s expectations and became a real Master Chef for a Day. Executive Chef Bulent Canbolat agreed with our praises and shook hands with a most talented GM, and also a chef, Gianrico Esposito! Bravo!!!

SPAGHETTI ALLE VONGOLE Ingredients (serves 4): • 1 packet regular spaghetti (500 grams)• 1 kg. fresh little neck clams • 40 grams chopped garlic • 6 tbsp. olive oil • 200 ml. white wine or fish stock • 1 bunch chopped parsley • Salt and fresh black pepper Method: Soak the clams in ice cold water over night and wash them very well under running water. Discard any that are open or damaged.

Start by heating the oil in large pan. Add the garlic and fry it gently for a few seconds.

Meanwhile, drain and stir in the clams, splash in some wine or fish stock and bring it to boil.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and cook until all clams are open, around five minutes.

While the clams getting ready, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Make sure it is al dente. Drain the pasta and toss in the pan with the parsley. Serve immediately.

ACQUA PAZZA (“Acqua pazza” is Italian for “crazy water,” a simple method of poaching fish.)

Ingredients (serves 4): • 8 fillet of sea bass fish • 4 cloves of garlic • 8 tbsp. olive oil • 400 grams cherry tomato • 300 ml. white wine or fish stock • 1/2 bunch chopped parsley • Salt and fresh black pepper For Decoration: (optional) Some capers Mashed potato Micro herbs Method: Place the garlic and cherry tomatoes in an oven tray. Add the olive oil, wine and 1 cup of water.

Wash and season the fish fillets generously with salt pepper. Lay down the fillets in the tray, sprinkle the chopped parsley.

Wrap the tray tightly with aluminum foil. Simmer in a preheated (200°C) oven for 12 minutes (depending on the thickness of the fish). Plate by decorating with some capers, mashed potato and micro herbs as in the photo.

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FOOD & DINING CANNOLI SICILIANI Ingredients (serves 4): For the dough: • 1 egg • 1 egg yolk • 15 grams white wine vinegar • 15 grams water • 375 grams flour • 30 grams icing sugar • 5 grams cocoa powder • 2.5 grams cinnamon powder • 2 grams salt • 30 grams butter • 1 egg white For the Filling: • 400 grams ricotta cheese • 250 grams icing sugar • 5 grams vanilla extract For Decoration: • Chopped pistachios Method: Dough: In a bowl, combine the egg, egg yolk, vinegar, and water. Set aside.

In a food processor, combine the flour, icing sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add the lard and mix thoroughly.

Add the liquids and pulse until the dough forms into a ball. Add water, if needed On a work surface, knead the dough for 2 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 1 hour in the refrigerator.

Heat the oil in the deep fryer to 190°C. Line a baking sheet with paper towel.

On a floured work surface, divide the dough into four pieces and shape into rectangles to facilitate running through the pasta machine. Roll a rectangle of dough at a time, dusting with flour if it becomes sticky, up to thickness number 5. Place the rolled out dough rectangles onto the floured surface.

Cut into 10-cm squares. Wrap the dough around a cannoli mold.

Layer two corners and stick together by brushing one side with the beaten egg white.

Fry one or two cannoli at a time for one to two minutes or until golden brown. Drain on the paper towel. Unmold the cannoli while still hot. Repeat with the remaining dough. Let cool completely.

Filling: In a bowl, combine all the filling ingredients. Place in a pastry bag fitted with a large tip. Stuff the cannoli with the cheese mixture. Decorate the edges with chopped pistachios. Dust with icing sugar before serving.

About Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Elaborate water features meander through the property amid bold yet soothing earthy aesthetics, creating an urban tranquility that is virtually unheard of in the epicenter of the bustling capital.

Doha’s serene downtown sanctuary is set right in the heart of Salwa Road, minutes away from Doha’s central business district, museums, and unique cultural venues as well as Hamad International Airport, which is a mere 20-minute drive from the property.

Following a unique theme, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa is an oasis of serenity in the heart of a rapidly growing metropolis. From elaborate entrances and bold walkways to lavish villas, the juxtaposition of serenity within the electric urban pull of Doha is a concept never seen before in the country.

Address: Salwa Road, Fereej Bin Mahmoud, Doha Phone: +974 4492 1555 Website: www.westindoha.com Instagram: @westindoha Twitter: @WestinDoha

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About Hunters Room & Grill The signature grill restaurant at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa offers an upscale, contemporary spin on the traditional grill house with a minimalist décor of leather seats, hardwood floors, and dark wood tables. It serves a modern take on grills, meat cuts, and fish and seafood specialties. The restaurant also has an open kitchen for guests to watch the chefs prepare succulent steaks and other tasty dishes.

Address: Salwa Road, Fereej Bin Mahmoud, Doha Phone: +974 4492 1555 Website: www.huntersdoha.com Email: dining.doha@westin.com Hours of Operation: Daily, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM Capacity: 100 seats (including winter garden) Promotions: Happy Hour: from 5:00 PM onwards, QR 25 selected beverages Early Bird: everyday 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM; set menu of appetizer, main course, and dessert; QR 99 per person / Sharing Platters: everyday 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM; platter of appetisers, main courses, side dishes, and sauces; QR 200 per platter Cheese and Grape Sips Pairings: everyday 5:00 PM onwards, variety of exquisite cheeses and three glasses of grape beverage, QR 140 About General Manager Gianrico Esposito With 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, of which 23 was spent with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Gianrico Esposito brings a wealth of knowledge from across different market sectors and brands ranging from leisure and luxury and business hotels to airport hotels with large conference facilities.

As a seasoned hotelier, Gianrico is passionate about hospitality and luxury. In his spare time, Gianrico enjoys culinary treats from his native Italy and the surrounding Mediterranean countries. He is also an avid swimmer.

About Executive Chef Bulent Canbolat Chef Bulent’s interest in cooking was sparked when he was pursuing his Hotel Management Degree in Turkey. His career in the Middle East for the past 15 years has enabled him to now speak fluent Arabic.

When asked about his cooking style, Chef Bulent says, “I believe that good food is about cooking fresh and serving fresh, while also focusing on presentation.” This concept is at the heart of his approach to The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa’s culinary offerings across the six F&B outlets available.

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FOOD & DINING

A homage to Qatari cuisine

One of Doha’s most soughtafter establishments, The Diplomatic Club, recently raised the curtain for Nassayem Qatar, a contemporary Qatari restaurant that’s looking to change the way Doha eats.

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ith its attention to local tradition, Nassayem Qatar makes waves for being the only fine-dining contemporary Qatari restaurant, cutting through the clutter for its concept which combines trendy with traditional.

FRESH AND ORIGINAL It’s certainly not a surprise as to where your food has come from. This restaurant boasts of using only the freshest local ingredients. Premium cuts of meat, fresh vegetables, spices produced in their own kitchen, and original recipes are the roots to the successful dishes at Nassayem Qatar.

From a shark gesheed soup to mohammar (sweet rice) to besisa (corn cake) with karak (sweet tea) ice-cream, Nassayem Qatar has carefully garnered the best of Qatari spices, Qatari dishes, and the favourites of the crowd.

FINE DINING WITH A FLAIR Along with knowledge on the roots of Qatari cuisine, the chef’s artistic flair is what’s meticulously presented to you. The service at Nassayem Qatar is as scrupulous as their attention to food. Their portions are carefully measured so that you leave

full, but not overfed. It would be difficult to point out one highlight of your meal because each dish is a star in its own right. Be it a jareesh (crushed wheat with tomatoes) soup or mashkoul (rice with onions), each dish excelled in showcasing the ingredients.

THIRST-QUENCHING DRINKS Nassayem Qatar manages to be austere yet spectacular in all aspects. In tandem with the contemporary concept of the restaurant, it also offers signature drinks that are local players in the food community of Doha. Halawa Blossom, Arabic blend, or homemade cola, all bring a gastronomic drama to the table. Worries of being too full will be forgotten as you relish the sweet ending with a satisfied smile. Khabees berry tart is a recommendation.

ARTFUL ARCHITECTURE The restaurant has a high ceiling that is shaped in such a way that it appears as though sunlight is filtering in through the roof. Art installations around the elegant dining room and smartly uniformed staff add to the charm. With a wood furnished dining area, an outdoor garden seating, and thoughtfully designed interiors, Nassayem Qatar is set to create quite a stellar experience.

EXPERIENCE THE FLAVOUR OF QATAR Brace yourselves for a big bill, but go and relish what no one in Doha has to offer. The place reflects the team’s commitment to serve the best food and beverages that originate from the community.

It is certainly a destination for those special moments. Nassayem Qatar is a destination that can be introduced to locals, expats and oversee travelers as an abode to experience Qatari tradition. n

About Nassayem Qatar: Inspired by Arabic and Qatari heritage, Nassayem Qatar serves Qatari cuisine in a fine dining contemporary style and utilizes premium local ingredients to prepare local dishes and beverages.

Address: Ground Floor, The Diplomatic Club, Al Istiqlal Street, West Bay Lagoon, Doha Reservations: Accepts reservations through phone and online. Encourages walk-ins.

Website: www.thediplomaticclub.com/dining. aspx Phone: +974 4484 7470.

Email: f&b@dclub.com.qa Hours of Operation: Weekdays:- 4pm – 12am Weekends:- 12pm – 12am About The Diplomatic Club: The Diplomatic Club offers guests a stylish local experience with its stunning spa, beauty salon for men and women, watersports, banqueting, and catering.

Website: www.thediplomaticclub.com Phone: +974 4484 7444 Email: info@dclub.com.qa Facebook: The Diplomatic Club Doha Instagram: @diplomaticclub Twitter: @TheDipClub

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FOOD & DINING

Chef Challenge

BEYOND JUICING ORANGES Photography by Jessie Palanca Feature coordinated by Hairiya Santos Star Ingredient: Oranges Location: Al Dirwandi Restaurant at the Adagio Premium Aparthotel West Bay Doha Food prepared by Executive Chef Assaad Saad

As part of the QH advocacy for a healthy lifestyle, we asked Assaad Saad, Executive Chef of Al Dirwandi Restaurant, to develop a nutritious meal that can also satisfy the pickiest of palates.

A HOT

PPETIZER

Shrimps Salad with Oranges in a Nest of Parmesan Cheese INGREDIENTS: • 5 pcs. shrimps • 1 cup parmesan cheese • 2 oranges • 1 tbsp. chopped parsley • Salt and ground black pepper • 2 tbsp. olive oil • 100 grams green sala PREPARATION: Clean the shrimps and boil. Use parmesan cheese to make a nest. Make a fillet of oranges and orange juice. Mix all ingredients and dress in the nest of parmesan cheese decorated with green salad.

Aside from its nutritional values, oranges give colour and distinctive flavour to your dishes.

You may be accustomed to oranges as fruit that are readily available to peel and munch. But there’s much more to it than this. Enhance your everyday cooking with this healthful, vitaminpacked, flavour-crammed ingredient!

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“Oranges are a healthy snack with low calories. There’s no waste in oranges, and it can be used in many dishes.

Put it on salads, ice cream, soup, cereals, smoothies, noodles, spaghetti sauce, rice, sushi, fish dishes - the list is endless. The food will have a wonderful zesty taste, and that’s why I used in my recipes for today.”

Assaad Saad Executive Chef

M

AIN COURSE

Lamb Rack in Croute of Orange Zest and Herbs With Orange Sauce

INGREDIENTS: •1 pc. lamb rack • 1 cup chaplure (bread crumbs) • 3 tbsp. mixed herbs • tbsp. orange zest • oranges • 2 tbsp. olive oil • 2 tbsp. butter PREPARATION: Season lamb rack with salt and black pepper. In a sauce pan, cook the lamb rack for 15 minutes. Continue cooking in the oven for more 10 minutes. Prepare the croute (mix of chaplure, orange zest, and mixed herbs). Cover the lamb rack with croute. Continue cooking lamb in the oven for more 10 minutes. Prepare the orange sauce and serve.

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D

ESSERT

Orange Salad with Mint Sugar and Pomegranate With Yogurt Sauce INGREDIENTS: • 3 oranges • 3 tbsp. pomegranate • 1 cup mint leaves • 4 tbsp. sugar • 1 cup natural yogurt PREPARATION: Prepare the orange fillets. Mix the mint leaves with sugar in the blender. Prepare yogurt sauce. Dress the orange, topping it with mint sugar and pomegranate and finish with yogurt sauce..

Address: 3rd floor, Aparthotel Adagio Premium, West Bay, Dafna, Al Wehda St., Doha Website: www.adagio-city.com Reservations: +974 4403 8888

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A product of

German Bakery Company

An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

FOOD & DINING

Perfect! The meat was cooked well. The chefs will cook your choices of seafood to your preference.

They will serve fresh fruit if you prefer that for dessert although there a lot of different confections to choose from as well.!

QH: Describe the quality of the service.

Word of Mouth Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. Its our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Ms. Grace S. Bayron-Pabua heads to the Urban Brunch at Doha Marriott. Here is the review.

The sauce from the Raan is the one that made all three of them taste great. The two other roasts were good but a bit dry.

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

Absolutely I would go back. My friends and I love to get together through dining and I think the food and ambiance is great, but as I said it's not that cheap, so probably again on special occasions.

Salsa: BBQ Squid, BBQ Beef.

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

I didn't like the sauce on it.

Dessert: Chocolate Mousse, Toffee Banana Tart, Irish Cream Coffee Mud Pie, Fresh Melon If i had more space I would have had another round of these desserts - heavenly delights!

QH: What did you order?

Drinks: The Buko (coconut) juice was refreshing and the Cranberry mocktail was super.

Seafood Station: Lobster, Tilapia, Calamari, Oyster

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

I don't really eat oyster, though [the others I was with] told me the oysters tasted creamy as they seem to have had some butter on them. The rest was scrumptious, especially the lobster considering it was our first lobster experience.

Even though I didn't pay for it (thank you for the treat, QH!) I would say the price was reasonable.

With a wide variety of food to choose from, it's actually worth it. Whatever food diet you’re into, there is always something for you. But because of the price too I would say a visit would probably be during special occasions only.

Asia Live: Maki, Sushi, Wanton Noodles, Jian Bing Chinese Pancake

Friendly, pleasant, and ready. We were welcomed

by Ms. Natavan and Ms. Nadia who were both lovely and bubbly. They graciously showed us the different food stations before leading us to our table, and gave us tips on which dishes we should try. The service staff were also ready to assist us with our other needs such as drinks. Each station attendant was also kind enough to describe and explain to us the dishes served

The seafood section where you get to pick your own choices and have them cooked for you. I loved the lobster and calamari! I also liked the food stations.

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant?

I hate to mention this, but halfway through our meal a big fly was flying around. My husband says maybe it was attracted to the open seafood section, though it was an enclosed place, so I don't know from where the fly entered QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience?

Having some of the food stations prepare the food when you choose them is already a special touch.

QH: Could the overall experience be improved?

If so, how?

QH: Describe the ambiance.

I underestimated the portion size and the spiciness of the Jian Bing Chinese pancake. But I have no regrets as it was really delicious. It is definitely not your typical pancake.

Taj Rasoi: Raan (whole lamb leg), Roasted Lamb, Roasted Beef

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Great! It was lively and full of energy. Although it would be nicer if they can install window blinds or something to block the sun’s glare when it hits the window because it’s distracting while you're dining.

QH: Describe the quality of the food.

I believe that for anyone or in everything there is always room for improvement. Perhaps they can do more with the placement or arrangement of the food stations to make it more presentable. n For bookings and inquiries, call 4429 8499 or visit their website http://www.marriott.com

FOOD & DINING

SWEET

A CELEBRATION OF CHOCOLATE

The Embassy of Belgium in Qatar partnered with The Torch Doha last March 8 to 11 to stage a feast for chocolate lovers in Doha – the Belgian Chocolate Festival. QH was honored to indulge in the delicacies offered at the event.

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eaching the Sky Lounge of The Torch Doha, guests were greeted by the luscious aroma of cocoa and chocolate wafting on the air, the preview to a sweet and remarkable experience.

The festival was opened by His Excellency Christophe Payot, Ambassador of Belgium to Qatar, who gave an inspiring speech, and by Mr. Sherif Sabry, General Manager of The Torch Doha.

Belgian chef chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud gave brief “making and tasting” workshops that served as quick guides to chocolate-making and the tasting of chocolate varieties.

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“Such an event was requested by many in Doha.

I am therefore pleased that we could launch such a festival to celebrate Belgian chocolate by giving an opportunity to the chocolate-lovers in Qatar to learn. I am convinced that the workshops will be an unforgettable experience for all participants,” said Ambassador Payot on the occasion.

Guests were tempted by a wide array of chocolate, from basic chocolate delicacies to artisanal creations made by some of the world known chocolate makers in the world. Everyone were warmly welcomed and invited to sample the heavenly treats.

Guests got to nibble on an assortment of creamy, bitter (dark), and sweet chocolate fused with flavors and a variety of fillings. A treat for the eyes was an amazing display of intricately carved chocolate sculptures made with exquisite craftsmanship.

About Belgian Chocolate Belgium is famous for its chocolate, considered by connoisseurs as the best in the world. While the raw materials do not originate from Belgium, over the years the country has developed unbeatable methods for processing top-quality ingredients, including pure cocoa butter, into the finest chocolate.

Because it is of a consistently high standard of quality, Belgian chocolate has come to be associated with gourmet specialties.

Chocolate trading in Belgium began as early as 1635. Chocolate making was then mostly a sideline of pharmacists who sold it as a tonic. In 1840, the first pressed chocolate tablets, pastilles, and figurines were made and sold. It was around this time that several chocolate makers were founded that grew into large companies that are still active nowadays.

ABOUT THE TORCH DOHA At 300 metres high and with 360° panoramic views across Doha, the hotel is the result of comprehensive architectural, engineering, and technical design.

It was formerly shaped to represent a colossal torch, which for the duration of the 15th Asian Games in 2006 held its symbolic flame, the highest-standing flame in the history of the games.

The unique structure of the hotel includes 163 rooms and suites of five-star hotel accommodation equipped with an iPad inroom solution; three restaurants including a breathtaking revolving restaurant at 240 metres above ground; two levels of health club with a cantilevered swimming pool 80 metres above ground; fitness facilities with state-of-the-art equipment; and a walkway access to Villaggio shopping mall.

At night, the hotel’s iconic silhouette with its kinetic light display illuminates Doha’s skyline.

For the duration of World Cup 2022 (Nov. 21 to Dec. 18, 2022), The Torch Doha will be the main hub for sports teams and personalities. For more information about the hotel, please visit www. thetorchdoha.com.

The famous “praline” and “ballotin” were invented

by Belgians. In 1912, Jean Neuhaus Jr. invented the praline, the first chocolate with a soft filling. In 1915, his wife Louise Agostini developed the first ballotin, a box in which pralines were packed to prevent their being crushed.

With more than 500 chocolatiers and above 2,000 chocolate shops, Belgium produces almost 220,000 tons of chocolate every year, most of it for export.

Brussels Airport is the world’s biggest shop, with over 800 tons sold annually.

Many Belgian chocolate brands are available on the Qatari market. Beyond retail products, several companies have now opened shops and even tearooms all over Doha. Several of them were represented at the opening event to present their products. Puratos-Belcolade, supplier of raw material, is also associated with the Belgian Chocolate Festival by providing most of the ingredients.

About Chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud Laurent Gerbaud, Belgian celebrity chef chocolatier, is one of the best chocolate makers in Brussels and his creations are a must-try. He belongs to the new generation of Belgian chocolate makers. He studied history while taking evening classes on chocolate making. After a long trip to China, he returned to Belgium and began experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, like spices, exotic fruits, and sugar substitutes. His journey to China is also reflected in his logo and beautiful packaging – a red seal depicting the word “chocolate” in Chinese. * n

CHOCOLATE BRANDS AT THE FESTIVAL (March 8-11, 2017): Choco de Gazelle Website: www.chocodegazelle.com Facebook: @chocodegazelle1 Instagram: @choco_degazelle Tel. No.: 4471 1276 Corne Dynastie Website: www.cornedynastie.com Email: info@cornedynastie.be Galler Website: www.galler.com Facebook: GallerOfficial Instagram: gallerofficial Godiva Website: www.godiva.com Instagram: godivacafeqatar Guylian Website: www.guylian.com Facebook: @GuylianChocolates Instagram: guylianchocolate Leonidas Website: www.leonidas-chocolate.com Facebook: Leonidas

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FOOD & DINING

SUNDAY CITY CENTRE ROTANA

Wok and Stir-Fry Teatro. From 4:00 PM to closing. Choose from an extensive list of tantalizing Chinese appetizers from soups to dishes straight from the Wok for only QAR 145 per person. Visit rotanatimes.com/ citycentrerotana for details, call 4445 8888, email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Easter Brunch Coral Restaurant and Mykonos From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Apr 16 - Spring into Easter holidays at InterContinental Doha where exquisite dishes, tempting desserts, and intricate Easter eggs masterfully handcrafted in vivid blooms of colour are but a few surprises our world-class chefs have in mind for you and your family. Little ones will be kept busy with exciting activities such as face painting and egg hunt. With live entertainment from members of Soul Shake or Easter buffet lunch at Mykonos with live entertainment from our Bouzouki Duo. Prices are QAR 395 at Coral and QAR 295 at Mykonos. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Easter Sunday Brunch Sawa. Apr. 16 - From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. This Easter Sunday, meander through Sawa on a tasty journey with international cuisines tempting your taste-buds. Indulge in delicious flavours from all over the world with friends and family while enjoying the gentle laughter as the little ones are entertained by our talented team. Prices: QAR 350 per person, including soft beverages; QAR 450 per person, including bubbles, grain and sips. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Easter Eggstravaganza Season Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM on April 16. Indulge in an elegant Easter brunch and enjoy a delicious buffet feast that includes carvery and live cooking stations, seafood display, salad bar, and an endless selection of desserts.

Lots of fun activities await the little ones including egg colouring and an exciting treasure hunt game.

Price is QAR 185 per person including water and soft drink. Children ages 6 to 12 get 50% discount, kids below 6 eat for free. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

MONDAY GRAND HYATT DOHA

Curry Nights Isaan. From 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Doha’s favorite “Curry Nights” are back. Guests can enjoy the delicious curry selection at Isaan and order a variety of unlimited curry to share - up to five curries per round - for only QAR 95 per person. Curries include selections for all tastes and preferences including: Fish, Beef, Chicken, Mussels, or Thai vegetables. Please call 4448 1250 or 7021 8097 for bookings and enquiries.

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Where To Go INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Greek Barbeque Night Apr 16 - Mykonos. From 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Enjoy an extraordinary Greek dining experience complemented by a selection of grilled meats, rustic Greek favorites, and homemade desserts. Price is QAR 150 per person. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Asian Night Crossroads Kitchen. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Experience the diversity of Asian cuisines with different counters featuring your favourite delicacies from China, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, and Japan. Price is from QAR 175. For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

London Twist Opal by Gordon Ramsay. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Discover a large selection of burgers, chili dogs, fish, shrimps created in front of you by Head Chef Elias Gemayel. A culinary experience that will excite your taste buds. Free to choose one menu from burgers, chili dogs, fish or shrimps inclusive of fries and one (1) beverage from the selected list.

Prices: QAR 100 per portion, desserts at QAR 45, QAR 25 for selected bottle brews, QAR 35 for glass of house sips, and QAR 150 bottle of house sips. To book call 4446 0105 or email diningreservations@ stregis.com.

TUESDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Happy Tuesdays –All about Noodles Hwang. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Hwang goes “All About Noodles”-where you can enjoy unlimited noodle dishes from our Pan Asian menu.

Select from classic Pad Thai, Ramen, Malaysian Laksa, and much more every Tuesday. Price is QAR 128 per person, beverages excluded. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Sushi & Seafood Night Le Central Restaurant. From 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Join La Central’s newly launched Sushi & Seafood Night! The talented Chefs have created special tantalizing items for this weekly extravaganza to delight all Le Cigale seafood and sushi fans in town! All-you-can-eat sushi and seafood at QAR 249 per person inclusive of a rich salad bar, hot fried appetizers, fresh sea food display, sushi live station, dessert, and one house sip. For more information, call 4428 8772.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Pizza, Pasta, and Jazz La Veranda. From 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM Transform your Tuesday nights with a perfect blend of unlimited classic Italian pizzas and pasta complemented by smooth jazz music, for only QAR 120 per person (all you can eat). For reservations, call 4485 3000 and any information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

WEDNESDAY DOHA MARRIOTT

Maharaja Thali. From 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Enhance your culinary experience with our special promotion at Taj Rasoi restaurant. Receive an exclusive opportunity to try the authentic tastes of Indian gastronomic heritage by enjoying our unlimited Indian specialties offer for only QAR 100.

For reservations, call 4429 8499.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Soiree Entrecote Prime. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Skip being a chef at home and join our Prime grill experience instead for a truly divine experience! Let us take you back to the comfort of home cooking and good meats. Enjoy unlimited cuts of rib eye steak along with a salad, sides, signature sauces, and dessert.

Price is QAR 250, inclusive of salad bar, unlimited meat prepared a la minute, sides as well as signature sauces, and dessert for a perfect night out! For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Churrasco Night Latino. From 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Churrasco is a Brazilian style barbecue laden with mouthwatering spit roast meats cooked in a Churrasco grill and served from a sword-sized skewer. Price is QAR 199 all you can eat; ladies get 3 free drinks. For reservations, call 4485 3000 and any information, email F&Breservations.

Doha@sheraton.com.

TORO-TORO

Caballeros Steak Night. From 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Toro Toro has something for the true gentleman of Doha. Choose two cold starters, two hot starters, unlimited Picanha steaks, two side dishes, and share a delicious dessert all while you’re entertained with Latin beats. QAR 750 for two. Including a bottle of Argentinian grape.

For inquiries, call 4035 5101 or email torotoro@ torotorodoha.com.

THURSDAY ANTICA PESA

Aperitivo all'italiana Lounge Bar. From 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Showcasing the best of the Italian spirit with the exclusive Aperitivo all'Italiana with complimentary flow of canapes like crostini, arancini, calamari skewers, and olive ascolane. You have only to choose your favourite drink. Drink list with regular prices and free flow of food. For more information, call 4035 5300 or email info@anticapesadoha. com.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA

Caramel High Tea Caramel. From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Not your regular afternoon tea! In collaboration with Dilmah we are introducing a new afternoon special, featuring a wide selection of exotic teas and creative mocktails, coupled with some of

your favorites including traditional English scones, pastries, Oriental sweets, and savoury sandwiches, as well as a live carving station. Price is only QAR 125 per person. Visit rotanatimes.com/ citycentrerotana for details, call 4445 8888, email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA

Easter Bunny Liquid Brunch Dunes. From 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Doha’s favorite after brunch is being taken over by Easter bunnies!

Come celebrate Good Friday on April 14 with special desserts and Liquid Brunch packages on offer. A standard beverage package priced at QAR 230 will include unlimited house sips by the glass, while a house spirits package will be priced at QAR 299 and a premium package at QAR 499. Please call 4448 1280 or 7021 8094 for bookings and enquiries.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Seafood Night Crossroads Kitchen. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Tiger prawns, mussels, tuna, oysters, and the freshest sushi in town! We also have a mouthwatering dessert section perfect for that sweet tooth. Price is from QAR 245. For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining. com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Sekushi The Raw Bar. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. An open oyster bar welcomes you while you are transported to the world of raw gastronomy. This season, experience Sekushi’s state of art midway from the ecstatic musical vibes and the paradisiac culinary experience. Price is QAR 225 per person. Beverage at reduced prices. Ladies get two complimentary glasses of sips. To book call 4446 0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

FRIDAY ALRAYYAN HOTEL DOHA

Friday Family Brunch Mezzo Restaurant. Join us for a Friday full of homemade pasta, fresh salads, and wide array of seafood, sushi, and juicy meats. Let the kids take advantage of the kids’ corner. Price is only QAR 195 per person. Children below 12 years old eat for free! Children between 12 and 15 get 50% off the regular price. For more information, call 4489 9000 or email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com.

ANTICA PESA

Culinary Carousel Marsa Malaz Kempinski (outside in the square) April 28. For the third time, Toro Toro, the popular Pan Latin American restaurant, together with award-winning Italian venue Antica Pesa and Japanese restaurant group NOZOMI invite you to enjoy a culinary experience where guests can taste flavors from Latin-America, Europe, and Asia. With the new brunch setting “Culinary Carousel," Antica Pesa will showcase the best Italian offerings from their bartenders to the chef’s corner with live mozzarella, pasta, and pizza stations; Toro Toro will be offering guests a contemporary take on tastes from Latin America, and NOZOMI will be honoring Japan with a fresh seafood market. Prices at QAR 380

(soft drinks package) and QAR 440 (sips package).

For more information, call 4035 5300 or email info@ anticapesadoha.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT

Urban Brunch Restaurant Gallery. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. There’s a new brunch in town! Doha Marriott Hotel is introducing an urban twist to Doha’s brunch scene! The Urban Brunch offers a genuine and authentic dining experience perfect for you and your family. Enjoy a unique mix of local produce, assorted seafood, and mouth-watering live cooking stations for only QAR 220 (regular brunch) and QR 320 (bubbly brunch). For reservations, call 4429 8499.

FOUR SEASONS

Friday Brunch. From 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Start the weekend on a leisurely note with the awardwinning Four Seasons Hotel Doha's Friday Brunch, with extended live stations in Elements, Il Teatro, and Arabica. Savour a wide array of offerings from fresh seafood to sushi, Asian food favourites, Arabic and Western selections, Peking Duck station, and sumptuous desserts including our Chocolate Cellar – matched by an all-new setting of action stations that serve up an unforgettable backdrop for flavourful cuisine. Prices: QAR 340 for regular brunch and QAR 440 for sparkling brunch. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@ fourseasons.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Friday Brunch Le Cigalon Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Start your weekend with a fabulous brunch and enjoy a rich wide selection of oriental and international dishes, seafood and sushi displays, live cooking stations, and tempting dessert and ice cream corners. Prices at QAR 250 per person inclusive of soft drinks and American coffee or tea and QAR 125 for kids 5 to 10 years old. For more information, call 4428 8698.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Brazilian Brunch Ipanema. From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Take a trip to Rio de Janeiro every Friday with a feast of Brazilian meats and the only authentic Brazilian band in Doha. Ipanema is the place to come for a super brunch, flambé desserts, and live entertainment. Prices: QAR 245 inclusive of soft beverages and QAR 345 inclusive of selected house sips. For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA

Blue Brunch Blue Restaurant. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Start your weekend with delicious food and great conversations. Enjoy a splendid range of international culinary delights and live cooking stations for only QAR 150 per person. For inquiries, call 4445 5535.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Friday Family Brunch Season Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Have a fun-filled Friday brunch with a delicious and rich international buffet, live cooking stations, and lots of activities at the very special kid’s kingdom.

Price is QAR 175 per person; children aged 6 and below dine for free; from 6 to 12 years, get 50% discount. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

ORYX ROTANA

TapBrunch The Cellar. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. A musttry brunch concept and the very first in town, "TapBrunch," a blend of tapas and brunch. Every Friday, have brunch with a creative twist for QAR 175 (food only) and top it off with our beverage package including unlimited sips or house beverages for only QAR 275 per person. For inquiries and reservations, call 44023333.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Easter Picnic Brunch Lagoon Restaurant and Garden. From 12:30pm to 4pm on Apr. 14. Hop on over and celebrate Easter with family and friends in our special picnic brunch, served family-style to share at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. Exciting kid’s activities, entertainment and live stations awaits the whole family to enjoy. Prices: QR 349 per adult with selected house beverages, QR 249 per adult with soft beverages and QR 99 per child aged 5-12. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8512 or 4484 8000.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

ShangTastic Brunch Yabby and Fuego - Apr 28. Join us as we take Friday Brunch to a whole new level! Level one comes to life as Yabby and Fuego join force offering a new take on brunch. Feast on oysters, lobsters, sushi, and fresh fish. Select from the finest butcher’s cuts, take your pick from the traditional pie and roast station, head to the teppanyaki grill, or make your own cocktail all while enjoying lively entertainment with our Argentine duo and DJ. For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email doha.dining@ shangri-la.com.

Ibn Battuta Friday Brunch Sridan. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Arabian explorer and enjoy ten action stations from around the world for QAR 285 with soft drinks and QAR 385 with premium beverage For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email sridan@ shangri-la.com.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

International Brunch Al Hubara. From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Spend quality time with your friends. Enjoy an array of the finest international specialties while your kids have fun with our exclusive children’s activities. Prices: QAR 315 per person including soft beverages and QAR 415 per person including selected beverage package. 50% discount for kids aged 6-12 years, kids below 6 dine for free. For reservations, call 4485 3000 and for more information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

Bubbalicious Brunch Seasonal Tastes. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. The famous Westin brunch just got better! This month the fab folks at Westin are introducing a new package which is lighter on the pocket but still just as tasty on the tongue! The New Superlicious Package from just QAR 340 is a steal for one of the best all-singing-all-dancing brunches in town!

If you haven’t been yet, this is definitely one not to miss! Prices: Delicious Brunch- QAR 320 soft beverages drinks only, Supercilious Brunch- QAR 340 including selected grapes and grains, Bubbalicious Brunch – QAR 395 including grapes and sips, and Royalicious Brunch- QAR 695 including grapes and grains, sips, and unlimited premium drinks. Kids from 6-12 pay 50%/ Kids under 3 dine free/ Kids

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FOOD & DINING

Where To Go

3-6 pay QAR 100. For more information, call 4492 1555, email dining.doha@westin.com or visit www. seasonaltastesdoha.com.

Children’s Cooking Class free. QAR 195 with soft beverages and QAR 250 with unlimited house beverages. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

TORO-TORO

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Friday Brunch. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Treating you to the warmth of Latin American hospitality and its lively family-style dining, Toro Toro brunch offers a selection of Pan-Latin favorites as well as Toro Toro’s signature mouth-watering Churrasco grill at the heart of every meal. Not enough? A live bossa nova duo will entertain you!

Prices are QAR 350 with soft beverages and QAR 390 for full package. For inquiries, call 4035 5101 or email torotoro@torotorodoha.com.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Big Friday Brunch Market by Jean Georges - Apr 14. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Including live entertainment by Adrian and Belinda. The award-winning brunch includes sushi, live carving stations, selection of cheese and salads, and an indulgent dessert section. Price: QAR 410 including selected premium beverages and QAR 295 including selected soft beverages per person. For more information or reservations, please contact 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com

SATURDAY DOHA MARRIOTT

JW’s Steakhouse Brunch JW's Steakhouse. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. We are excited to introduce JW's first-ever Steakhouse Brunch! Join us at our award-winning restaurant for a mouth-watering a-la-carte menu brought straight to your table. Enjoy classic steakhouse favourites, freshly made seafood, and so much more for only QAR 250 (regular brunch) and QAR 390 (bubbly brunch). For reservations, call 4429 8499.

FOUR SEASONS

Nobu Culinary Class Nobu. From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM every first Saturday of the month. Master the art of Nobu signature dishes and sushi with the help of Nobu’s talented chefs and finish it off with a delicious three-course lunch. Price is at QAR 1,250 per person inclusive of culinary class and three-course lunch menu. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

We Love Saturday Brunch Coral Restaurant. From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Join us for an exceptional brunch featuring the great tastes of Tex-Mex, Greek cuisine, and Belgian flavours alongside our popular international and Mediterranean buffet and fresh sushi bar. To make it even more exciting for your little ones, we have put together a fabulous

All listings are categorized per hotel, per day. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

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Family Squared The Square. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Gather your family and friends and don’t miss our Family Squared Saturday Lunch. Relish some of our chefs’ delights as you spend some quality time with your loved ones. Experience our various live cooking corners and have a relaxed start to your week with all of your favorite comfort food. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

The Breakfast Factory Le Cigalon Restaurant. From 6:30 AM to 10:45 AM. Rise and shine! Enjoy a spread of International buffet with extended Oriental and European selections. Prices are QAR 130 inclusive of selected beverages and QAR 65 for kids 5 to 10 years old. For more information, call 4428 8698.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Weekend Brunch Collection - Catalonian Saturday Brunch El Faro. From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Uno, dos, tres! End the weekend with an authentic Spanish à la carte brunch at El Faro with flavours from Catalonia, showcasing specialties from the region as well as offering an assortment of the signature tapas, unlimited paella, and delicious desserts.

Continue the fiesta with the Hora Feliz! 1+1 offer starting at 3.30 PM. Prices: QAR 240 per person including soft beverages and QAR 380 per person including brews, signature sips, and Spanish beverages. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA

Sushi and Steak at Blue Blue Restaurant. From 12:30 PM to 12:00 midnight. Treat yourself to an experience like never before with a succulent combination of sushi and steak. Get the best of both worlds for only QAR 215.

For inquiries, call 4445 5535.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Dimsum Brunch Shanghai Club. Saturdays in Qatar just reached new heights. Gather family and friends for a brunch with a Chinese twist. For QAR 238 per person, choose unlimited servings of signature and traditional dim sum, soup, noodles and more.

And because it’s still the weekend, indulge in free flowing beverages at an additional supplement while admiring the view from 43 floors up. For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email shanghai. club@shangri-la.com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Dejeuner De Paques La Mer Bistro - Apr 15. From 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Celebrate Easter in Parisian style with a stunning view from the heights of La Mer Bistro as we prepare an exceptional menu for Easter Brunch which your family and friends can enjoy in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

Indulge in The Royal Thai Brunch Sabai Thai. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Step into

Sabai Thai for Saturday brunch like no other. Indulge in traditional royal Thai cuisine and beverages created by our skilled Thai chefs and mixologists using the finest Thai ingredients. Prices: QAR 130 per person with soft beverages and QAR 170 per person with selected grapes. For reservations, call 4492 1555.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Brunch – BBQ Nations WAHM. From 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Enjoy sunset vibes at WAHM with the newly introduced BBQ Nations Brunch. Take advantage of the casual setting at the recently renovated Wet Deck and Terrace while swaying to DJ Kinky D’s beats. Meat you there! For enquiries or reservations, please contact 4453 5323 or email bnfreservations. wdoha@whotels.com. For more information, please visit www.wahmdoha.com.

DAILY S P E& CIALS

AL RAYYAN HOTEL DOHA

Parrilla Carnival!

Thurs.- Fri. From 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Enjoy the finest Argentinian meats fresh from the grill for QAR 195 including a selection of side dishes.

For more information, call 4489 9000 or email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com Dinner Buffet Apr. 1-15 at Mezzo Restaurant. From 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. End your day with a tasteful dinner buffet featuring a wide array of seafood, juicy meats, fresh sushi, and homemade pasta for only QAR 110. For more information, call 4489 9000 or email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com.

Luca’s Tiramisu Promotion Daily at MODA Lounge. From 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Entice your tastebuds with our homemade tiramisu and pair it with your favorite Lamborghini coffee or tea for only QAR 45.

For more information, call 4489 9000 or email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com.

ANTICA PESA

Chef Menu Daily. Available for dinner. Antica Pesa is pleased to offer the four-course Chef's Menu!

You can taste the delicious flavors of Italy in our pizza and fritto misto, our signature Pasta Cacio e Pepe, and our best selection of desserts. Price is at QAR 295 inclusive of one bottle of sips for every two people. For more information, call 4035 5300 or email info@anticapesadoha.com.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA

Cowboy Steaks Daily at Boston’s. From 5:00 PM to closing.

It’s all about steak! Choose from our selection of juicy, expertly prepared tender cuts, including our pepper-crust beef Tomahawk, grilled Veal Chops, coriander-crusted Rack of Lamb, and our special slow-cooked and glazed Beef Ribs. Don’t forget to order our special “Cowboy Cookies” with a side of aanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and strawberries. Prices are a la carte. Visit rotanatimes.com/citycentrerotana

for details, email fb.citycentre@rotana.com or call 4445 8888,

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON

Pure BBQ Thurs.- Sat. at Pure. From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. We offer unlimited grills for QAR 120 per person (regular door policy applies). Special discounts: 30% for teachers, hoteliers, bankers, and airliners.

For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or email: doha.social@hilton.com.

Mini-Business Lunch Daily at L2. Two-course lunch – either starter and main course or main course and dessert - for only QAR 60 per person. Special discounts: 30% for teachers, hoteliers, bankers, and airliners.

For reservations, please call 5079 3203 or email: doha.social@hilton.com.

Happy Hour Buffet Daily at L2. From 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. For only QAR 65 per person. Special discounts: 30% for teachers, hoteliers, bankers, and airliners. For reservations, please call 5079 3203 or email: doha. social@hilton.com.

EZDAN HOTEL

Business lunch at Al Thouraya Restaurant Daily at Al Thouraya Restaurant. From 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM. All-day dining with contemporary international and Arabic cuisine for only QAR 89 per person. For more information, call 4496 9600.

Weekend Brunch Fri.-Sat. at Al Thouraya Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Join us for a family-friendly weekend brunch where kids can play in our outdoor playground right next to the restaurant for only QAR 150 per person. For more information, call 4496 9600.

FOUR SEASONS

Breakfast Around the World Daily at the Pool Grill. From 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Discover different destinations around the world by simply having breakfast. Pool Grill has created a new menu with classic breakfast choices from countries around the world and get 10% discount when you order breakfast matching your nationality. Now, the menu has expanded to six breakfast options including American and Portuguese. For inquiries and reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Elements Express Lunch Sat.-Thurs. at Elements. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. In a hurry? Try our Express lunch, which offers a three-course menu or two-course menu featuring a selection of simple and composed salads or warm soup, low calorie main course, and irresistible dessert. Now the menu features Elements signature dishes. Prices: QAR 95 for three-course menu and QAR 85 for two-course menu. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@ fourseasons.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA

Songkran Festival Apr 12-14, Wed. – Fri. at Isaan. Get ready to get soaked with Grand Hyatt Doha’s very own Songkran celebrations this April. Songkran –Thai Water Festival—is the most anticipated and delightful Thai celebration of the year which marks the New Year according to the Thai Lunar calendar.

Our award-winning Thai restaurant Isaan will be

commemorating Songkran with a Thai New Year Dinner in the Grand Hyatt Garden on April 12 and closing with a special Songkran Chatuchak Brunch on April 14. Dinner and soft beverage package priced at QAR 299, special spirits package priced at QAR 399. Please call 4448 1250 or 7021 8097 for bookings and enquiries.

Ravioli Festival Apr 20-30 at Rocca. From 6:00 PM. This festival for ravioli aficionados offers the enjoyment of family-style appetizers, one of three ravioli main courses, two different indulgent desserts, and a glass of sips or a soft beverage. This special delectable offer is only QAR 145 per person.

Please call 4448 1272 for bookings and enquiries.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Coffee Hour Daily at the Tea Lounge. From 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM. Try our unique coffee slush selection featuring mocha mint slush and peanut butter swirl. Get creative and make your own flavoured coffee as well. Pastries will be 50% off from 8:00 PM onwards every day. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

including coffee or tea. For more information, contact 4405 3326 or gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

Ladies Breakfast in Aroma Daily at Aroma. From 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Ladies can enjoy the Kempinski breakfast buffet of Aroma for only QAR 75 per person. For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants. doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Business Lunch Sun.-Thurs. at the New York Steakhouse. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Savour a three-course set menu with the finest meats at our award-winning New York Steakhouse for just QAR 95 per person.

For more information, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Haute Couture Afternoon Tea Daily at Café Murano. From 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Allow your shopaholic cravings to be satisfied with a beautifully created Haute Couture Afternoon. With a ferris wheel of sweet and savoury treats perfectly balanced with your choice of tea or coffee to create a seamless afternoon setting. Price is only QAR 185 for two people sharing, including tea or coffee. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Contemporary French Gateaux Daily at Bohemia. From 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM. The talented pastry chefs of Bohemia have prepared the parfait French Gateaux for you to enjoy while gazing at the beautiful private beach and pools of Marsa Malaz. Whether you’re entertaining guests or attending a business meeting, a delicious mouthful of gateau will be the perfect accompaniment. Prices are a la carte. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Skip the Rush Sun-Fri at Hwang. From 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM or 9:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Skip the rush hour and take a trip to Southeast Asia through its exotic culinary flavours. Savor a meal for two from the handpicked selection of your favourite dishes at Hwang.

Enjoy a sharing menu for two at QAR 188. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Express Business Lunch/New Business Lunch Sat.-Thurs. at Aroma. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Experience the new express business lunch menu, brought to you by the talented chef of Aroma. Offering a creative two- or three-course menu using fresh and locally farmed ingredients, served within 45 mins. Prices QAR 75/QAR95 per person. For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/doha.

Express Lunch Sat.-Thurs. at Zengo. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Zengo, the award winning Pan-Asian restaurant by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, now offers the option to indulge in a delicious lunch when in a rush! Zengo’s express lunch menu offers a spin on authentic Pan-Asian cuisine, from miso soup, sushi, and hand-crafted dim sum, to curry dishes, grilled entrees, and wok dishes. Save some space for exotic fruits and sweet finales!

Prices: QAR 95 per person including water and sodas (express lunch), and QAR 215 sharing for two, including water and sodas (omakase lunch).

For more information, call 4405 3560 or email zengo@zengodoha.com.

Ladies High Tea Daily at Gourmet House. From 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Ladies, join us for a three-tiered High Tea curated especially for you and a friend to share and enjoy. With miniature sweet and savoury treats accompanied by perfectly brewed tea and coffee, ensuring a well-balanced afternoon out with friends. Price is QAR 185 for two persons

Supper Time Daily at Sawa. From 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Enjoy the best of international cuisine in our new supper menu at Sawa. Join us for a delicious dinner prepared by our culinary brigade for an experience sure to satisfy your tastebuds. Price is QAR 195 for four courses from our supper menu. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA

Special Breakfast Offer Daily at Flavours. From 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Spoil yourself every morning with a delicious breakfast buffet at Flavours, featuring live cooking stations (saj, eggs, waffles, and pancakes), a special healthy corner, fresh bakery, and much more for only QAR 99 per person. For inquiries, call 4445 5544.

Homemade Burger Daily at Victoria. From 12 noon to 12 midnight.

If you’re a keen burger lover, look no further as we have something super tasty for you - a truly beefy burger topped with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, tomatoes, and gherkins, served with steak fries and coleslaw for only QR 65. For inquiries, call 4445 5544.

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MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

April Burger Express Daily at Jazz Up. From 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM (Sat.Wed.) and 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM (Thurs.-Fri.). Why get one burger when you can have three? Grab beef, chicken, and veggies on one plate. Try our version of classic American food for only QAR 55.

For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

Business Lunch Daily at Seasons Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Enjoy a tempting international buffet with salad bar, dessert station, and soft drinks in a relaxed atmosphere for only QAR 75 per person. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

ORYX ROTANA

Tabkhet Lyom Sun.-Thurs. at Al Nafourah Garden Lebanese Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Our special Dish of the Day is prepared especially for you. Gather your colleagues for a quick lunch break and enjoy Tabkhet Lyom for only QAR 65 per person including side salad, dessert of the day, and a soft drink. For inquiries and reservations, call 44023333.

“Grab N’ Go” Breakfast Counter Daily at Sky Lounge. From 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM. A new breakfast counter in the morning with sandwiches, mueslis, fruits, muffins, and pastries.

Items can be consumed in the lounge or to go. For inquiries and reservations, call 44023333.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

All-you-can-eat- Argentine Madness Fuego. Join the Fiesta! Unlimited steaks and appetizers every day at Fuego for QAR 400 per person. For inquiries and reservation, call 4429 5295 or email fuego @shangri-la.com.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Turkish Food Festival Sun.-Sat. at Al Hubara. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM for lunch and 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM for dinner April 16-22. Experience the passion that Turks have for their food as we bring you Turkish favourites at Al Hubara. Turkish cuisine is one of the most rich and appetizing cuisines in the world, and our specialty Turkish chef will make you long for more!

Lunch for only QAR 195 per person including soft beverages; dinner inclusive of soft beverage for only QAR 235 and QAR 295 which includes selected beverage (Wed. and Thurs.). Take a 50% discount for kids aged 6-12 years, while kids below 6 dine for free. For reservations, call 4485 3000 and any information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton. com.

All’Italiana Weekend Brunch Fri.-Sat at La Veranda. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Seize the weekend and enrich your palate at La Veranda with a taste of authentic Italian dishes.

Our DJ will keep you in high spirits as you explore live interactive cooking stations serving the best of Italian cuisine. Prices: QAR 250 per person including soft beverages and QAR 330 including selected beverage package. For reservations, call 4485 3000 and any information, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Trio Lunch Sun.-Thurs. at Al Sultan Brahim. From 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Experience the taste of legendary Lebanese cuisine with the trio lunch, a three course lunch menu, featuring a selection of Al Sultan Brahim recipes, soft drinks, and sisha. Package

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for only QAR 125. To book call 4446 0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Oyster Bay Dinner by the Pool Sat.-Wed. at Oyster Bay & Bar. From 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM (last order 12:30 AM). As the sun goes down, The St. Regis Doha private pool pulses to the beats of the house music. The cool evening, starlit sky, and shimmering Arabian skyline creates an intimate setting for guests to enjoy quality time with their family and friends while savouring beverages, snacks, and shisha. Guests can pass their evening in their private gazebo by the pool, with all the amenities to have a good time while comfortably being pampered. Prices on consumption, QAR 500 consumable in food, beverage, and shisha - max 6 people. To book call 4446 0105.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Aperitif A La Francaise Daily (except Sundays) at La Mer Bistro. From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Celebrate the weekend French Bistro style by indulging in authentic French aperitifs while nibbling sumptuous canapés served “pass around.” For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

THE TORCH DOHA

Surf ’n’ Turf Grills Fri.-Sat. at THREE SIXTY. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Choose from an A la Carte selection of steaks & seafood main courses for QAR 150 per person.

Located on the 47th floor. For reservations, call 4446 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@ thetorchdoha.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

Italian Week Apr. 23-29 at Hunters. Indulge in authentic Italian flavors when Hunters Room & Grill takes on one of the world’s most celebrated cuisines. An enriching culinary experience is guaranteed, showcasing remarkable Italian dishes using the best and freshest local ingredients. For reservations, call 4492 1555 Sunset Chocolate Afternoon Tea Mon.-Fri. at Sky Lounge. From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Exceptional chocolate and freshly made pastries creating a bespoke combination of flavours to accompany Doha’s majestic sunset from the heights of The Torch Doha. Each individual pastry contains different elements of cocoa to entice the palette and blend together to celebrate the very best of chocolate, combining sugar and spice whilst ensuring that the content of ingredients is fully balanced. Price is only QAR 90. For reservations, call 4446 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@ thetorchdoha.com.

“Eat Well, Live Well” Wellness Lunch Sun.-Thurs. at Flying Carpet. From 12:00 noon to 3:30 PM. Including A la Carte healthy appetizer, main course, detox water, and wellness beverage. QAR 80 per person. For reservations, call 4446 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Easter Sunday Apr 14-16 W Cafe.. What better excuse to indulge in a special cake for the entire family on Easter Sunday! If you aren’t feeling too devilish, chose from a range of cupcakes. Prices: QAR 150 (small cake) and QAR 225 (large cake). For reservations or enquiries, please contact 4453 5385 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@hotels.com. For more information, please visit www.wcafedoha.com.

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Prime Intercontinental Doha The City

CAFÉ #999 The Doha Fire Station

SPANISH & TEX-MEX

INTERNATIONAL

Aceite 4018-8894 California Tortilla 4434-4144 Chili’s 4466-0663 El Faro 4035-5555 Fuego 4429-5000 Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 Paloma 4484-4444 Picasso’s 4428-1428 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 Salsa 4429-8888 Toro Toro Doha 4035-5101

Al Hubara 4485-3000 Al Liwan Restaurant 4424-2888 Baraha 4447-0000 Shakespeare and Co. 6676-8812 Choices 4402-3333 Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo 4424-7777 Crossroads Kitchen 4419-6100 Eggspectation 5040-9900 Elements 4494-8888 Flying Carpet 4446-5600 Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 Lagenda 4408-4220 Mawasem 4423-3333 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Panorama 4446-5600 Olive Oil 4445-8888 Pool Bar 4429-5000 Pool Grill 4494-8600 Seasonal Tastes 4492-1555 Sridan 4429-5000 The Grill 4448-1234 The Lagoon 4484-8000 The Village Souq Waqif 3331-1558 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vine 4446-0105

ARABIC & LEBANESE Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad 4491-8692 Al Bandar 4431-1818 Al Batross 4432-8888 Al Canteen 4433-6666 Al Mourjan 4483-4423 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Shaheen Restaurant 4485-3000 Al Sufra 4035-5555 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Al Tabkha 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875 Al Tawash 4498-2002 Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam 4495-3876, Ext: 1291 Emirgan Sutis 4037-5287 German Doner Kebab 4464-1179 Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café 4408-0840 Kunafa Albisana.

4408-1200 Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma 4466-2616 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul 4436-2947 Nassayem Restaurant, Diplomatic Club 4484-7470 Shawarma Albisana 4408-1400 Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 4408-2000 Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 Turkey Central 4443-2927 Wafi Gourmet 4486 4747

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Issan Grand Hyatt Doha

CHINESE Chopsticks D’Chopstix Hakkasan Royal Bafilyon Ruby Wu’s Wok of Fame

4434-3333 4408-4888 4446-0170 4411-4458 4428-1428 4413-4772

CONTEMPORARY EUROPEAN Aroma Astor Grill Belgian Café Gordon Ramsay La Mer Market by Jean-Georges Nando’s Delivery Hotline Opal by Gordon Ramsay

4405-3325 4446-0105 4484-4444 4446-0105 4484-8000 4453-5135 4436-0606 4446-0105

FRENCH La Sahtaine La Varenne Le Relais de L’Entrecote Maxim Sormani The French Olive

4423-3333 4499-0680 4495-3876 Ext. 1411 4428-1428 4495-3876 Ext. 3222 4444-4777

INDIAN Biryani Hut Bombay Balti Chingari Royal Indian Royal Tandoor

Al Souq St., Jasra

Souq Waqif Saffron Lounge Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor Sukh Sagar Taj Rasoi

4464-1401 4428-1428 4428-1428 4466-6876 4444-6151 4432-3244 3325-8919 4019-8877 4431-9172 4429-8888

ITALIAN Antica Pesa Doha 4035-5011 Biella 4421-0025 Carluccio’s 4495-3876 Cucina 4419-6100 Di Capri 4428-8698 II Teatro 4494-8888 La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant 4436-7991 La Spiga by Paper Moon 4453-5135 La Veranda 4485-3000 le Vesuvio 4408-1500 Paper Moon 4016-6000 Porcini 4484-8000 Rocca 4448-1272 The French Olive 4444-4777 The Italian Job 4428-1428 Three Sixty 4446-5600

Flying Carpet The Torch Doha

JAPANESE Neo 4432-2508 Nobu 4494-8600 Nozomi 4035-5089 Oishi Sushi 4442-8989 Sakura 4428-1428 Strata Restaurant & Lounge 4015-8888 Sushi Minto 4467-5577 Megu 4495-3876, Ext: 2101 Yen Sushi Bar 4428-8888

MEDITERRANEAN Al Dirwandi Restaurant 4403-8888 Aramede 4408-7777 Bistro Bistro 4428-1428 La Villa 4446-2222 Le Central Restaurant 4428-8888 Medi @ The Village 4444-4700 Mykonos 4484-4444 Sawa 4035-5555 The Cellar 4402-3333 Three Sixty 4446-5600

PERSIAN Grill @ The Village 4444-4700 Parisa 4425-6666 Prince Of Persia 4015-0190.

SOUTHEAST ASIAN Asia Live!

4429-8888 Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212

Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077

Al Khor Mall 4411-8817

Salwa Road 4437-1212

Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Isaan 4448-1250 Mango Tree 4495-3876 Nusantao: Sea Kitchens 4494-8888 Spice Market 4453-5353 Sri Kebaya 4434-0838 The Noodle House

City Center Mall 4411-5063

The Pearl 4002-7512

Landmark 4417-5682

Hakkasan The St. Regis Doha Antica Pesa Marsa Malaz Kempinski

BAR FOOD Belgian Café Library & Cigar Lounge Madison Piano Bar Pool Bar Shehrazad The Irish Harp The Lounge Wahm

4484-4444 4494-8600 4428-8888 4484-4444 4428-1428 4485-4444 4405-3325 4453-5353

AMERICAN & BURGERS American Grill 4411-0188 Burgeri 4449-3958.

Chili’s 4466-0663 Fuddruckers 4483-3983 Hardee’s 4467-8750 Johnny Rockets 4455-2792 Lord of The Wings 4417 4366 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443-7846 TGI Friday’s 4488-7008

SEAFOOD Almaskar 4485-3000 Al Dana 4425-6666 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Balmesan 4441-2001 Fish Market 4484-4444 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710 Panorama 4446-5600 Pier 12 4428-1428 Yabby 4429-5000

STEAKHOUSES Bentley’s Grill Fuego JW’s Steakhouse Le Grill New York Steakhouse Prime The Anvil Rooms Toro Toro Doha

4428-1428 4429-5000 4429-8888 4484-7412 4419-6100 4015-8888 4499-0685 4035-5101

CAFÉS Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Allegria 4485-3000 Almas Lounge 4446-5600 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Arabica 4494-8600 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 Atrium 4424-7777 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 Biscotti 4448-1282 Café Murano 4035-5555 Caramel Lounge 4445-8888 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Fleurs et Café 7737 3739 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 Kufic Lounge 4446-5600 Le Gourmet 4436-1789 Lobby Lounge 4429-5000 Luxe Lounge 4492-1555 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130

Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Monte's 4499-0689 Orangery Café Trottoir 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700.

Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Seasons Tea Lounge 4494-8600 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge (Oryx Rotana) 4402-3333 Sky Lounge (The Torch Doha) 4446-5600 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vitamine Café 4035-5011 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

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TUMI’s New Voyageur Leather Collection for Spring

Since its launch, the TUMI Voyageur collection has been an unwavering favorite for stylish women on the move. This spring, TUMI unveils the limited-edition Voyageur Leather line, taking the Voyageur collection’s most celebrated silhouettes and reintroducing them in beautifully textured, pebbled leather.

Luxurious and lightweight with a sophisticated style, the Voyageur Leather assortment, available in Black and Cornflower Blue, gives the modern woman the signature Voyageur features she loves with an unmistakably feminine attitude.

The Voyageur Leather Collection is now available in TUMI stores worldwide and on www.TUMI.com.

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SPORTS

Top Picks

GRAND HYATT DOHA Six Pack in Three Months

For April. Get a flat tummy in no time! Develop a six-pack with Jaula’s new three-month program, which includes two personal training sessions and two complimentary fitness classes per week.

Complete with two Jaula T-shirts and a detailed nutrition program based on personal goals, this package is priced at QR 7,999. Please call 4448 1060 for bookings and enquiries.

EZDAN HOTEL Zumba

Upon Request. Join us for a fun session of Zumba (mixed as well as ladies classes only) for only QR 40 per person. For more inquiries and reservation, call 44969620 or email healthclub@ezdanhotels.qa.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Indoor Cycling

Daily. This class is a high intensity workout on a stationary bike with fun and upbeat music. Not only will the workout condition and shape your legs but it will also develop your cardiovascular system and burn fat. Fees: QR 35 for member and QR 60 for non-members. For more timings and other information, please call 4484 4852.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Ladies Membership FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Full Moon Yoga

April 11. It is time to release tension and open up to receive all energy the full moon has to offer. Join us on Tuesday, at 7pm. Fee is only QR 100 per person. For more information, please call 44948801.

Upon Request. Start your fitness program with us for QR 1,500 per month with unlimited access to the Fitness Center and our Resort Club as well as exclusive access to the beach and pool area. For reservations, 4485 4600, and for more information, email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com

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SPORTS

PURSUING Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Pictures by Jessie Palanca

QH talks to the athletes of the Shine Project about their week’s training in Qatar, what they’ve learned, and what they’ll be taking back to Brazil.

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o be an athlete is no easy task. It demands time, training, focus, and determination. To reach the elite levels of their sport, quality equipment, sponsors, coaches, good diet and nutrition, and a topnotch training environment must be added to the list.

Rio: where it all began Our story starts in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) was present for the most important athletic event in the world, the Olympic Games.

The QOC hosted ‘Bayt Qatar,’ its unifying hospitality house for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Casa Daros, a former museum and

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A DREAM historical heritage site in Botafogo, was transformed into a venue which shared Qatar’s culture, heritage, and passion for sport with the world.

Using the latest innovations and technology, visitors were able to travel on an interactive journey of Qatar to experience and understand its history, traditions, and development into the global sports hub that it is today.

The hospitality house also brought together Qatari and Brazilian food, music, and art in a unique fusion, bridging sport, culture, education, and diversity in a true celebration of life.

The Shine Project: cultivating talent It was in May of last year when the QOC announced details about its Shine Project, which officials hope will deliver

a compelling legacy from the Rio 2016 Games.

The project provides an opportunity for underprivileged young athletes from across Rio de Janeiro to train at Qatar’s world-class facilities at the Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence, with specialised coaching and sports science support.

The QOC, Qatar Athletics Federation, and Aspire Academy partnered with Futuro Olimpico - an NGO founded by Brazil’s Olympic bronze medallist from Atlanta ‘96, Arnaldo de Oliveira - and the Rio de Janeiro Athletics Federation to identify Brazil’s most talented young athletes to participate in the project.

An athletics competition held last May 22 saw almost 200 athletes battle it out to become one of ten winners of the trip to Doha.

According to Coach Arnaldo de Oliveira, although the competition was organized in a very short period of time, it was one of the most successful Brazil has ever seen. Athletes from all over the

Souza Brites da Silva. Coached by Arnaldo de Oliveira, they are an energetic group of young talents following their dreams.

When I met the group in Qatar, it was fascinating to see their point of view after having trained in the top-quality facilities in Doha.

Upon starting their athletics careers as teenagers, they had encouragement from their families but found it difficult to find the resources for training.

It was also a challenge to get coaches and sponsors.

Sarah Morais started competing when she was 14 years old. She considers the Aspire Academy concept of integrated training and living as the best way to build successful athletes .

Rayneson told me how amazed he was with the training structure and Aspire programs. He said in Brazil he has to take two or three rides to get to his training, and he lacks funds for an appropriate diet. Still, he deems himself privileged in having the assistance of Futuro Olimpico, which provides the funds and structure to talented athletes to focus and train for success. But he says that they are a small group compared to all athletes in Brazil searching for opportunities.

Rayneson added that Qatar provides the necessary resources to their athletes and that it is every young athlete’s dream to study, live, train, and eat in the same place. “All you have to do as an athlete is to focus and perform your best,” he said.

country came to try for this unique opportunity to train in Qatar in a totally different environment and with facilities that are a far cry from their reality in Brazil.

Meet the athletes The talented winners were Gabriel Oliveira Constantino, Sarah Morais, Paola Moreira Rosa, Lucas Soares, Cristiane Dos Santos Silva, Rayneson Pereira Silva, and Kerinde Hilario de

Cristiane was the only one from this group who actually represented Brazil at the Rio Games. She has travelled to other countries and nowhere else has she seen a structure like Aspire Academy in Qatar. She wants to take this experience to improve her performance, adding that she learned much after only one week in Qatar and she will use this knowledge when training in Brazil.

Doha: where they’d like to stay They are all willing to come back to Qatar. Some of the athletes even want to be adopted by Aspire Academy and live in Qatar. To obtain the opportunity to be trained by an International team and have all the facilities for their success, to

have all concerns taken care of so that they can concentrate on their training, is every athlete’s dream and right now Qatar is the only country offering this opportunity.

We talked about them representing another country for Olympics and how they would feel about it. Their answers were all the same: “We will represent the county that supports us. If we cannot find support in our country, we will be honoured to represent the country that believes in us.”

Coach Arnaldo de Oliveira says that he would like to continue the Shine Project partnership with Qatar and have the chance to come every year as they are all looking forward to participate in the Worlds Championship in Qatar in 2019.

When I asked Arnaldo about Qatar’s prospects for the next Summer Olympic Games, he said that after being here and seeing these facilities and experiencing firsthand the integrated concept of Aspire Academy, he is sure that Qatar is on the best way to build successful athletes and that they will see the results soon.

He added, “Qatar has everything to be the next world leader at the Olympics. n

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QPW brings

PRO WRESTLING EXTRAVAGANZA

to DOHA Founded in 2013, Qatar Pro Wrestling is the first official prowrestling promotion company in the Middle East. With successful records of previous shows in Qatar in 2013 and 2015, and one year later in Sudan, QPW is back to host yet another exciting, largescale wrestling event.

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uperSlam will feature more than 25 international superstar wrestlers, including Booker T (USA), Cody Rhodes (USA), Johnny Mundo (USA), Rey Mysterio (USA), Alberto El Patron (Mexico), Chris Raaber (Austria), Alofa (USA), Carlito (Puerto Rico), Chris Masters (USA), Mil Muertes (Puerto Rica), Caprice Coleman (USA), Matt Cross (USA), Michael Kovac (Austria), Ali Farhat (Canada), Brian Cage (USA), Apollo (Puerto Rico), and, for the first time, Qatari superstar Ali Al Naimi.

These multiple championship winners will guarantee a blood-boiling night to fulfill the fantasy and thrill the thirst of an estimated 9,000 fans from all around the region.

As the highlight of this unique event, the legendary championship winner Sting will also make an appearance to ensure the top-notch quality of this all-star feast.

QPW founders Ali Ahmad Marafia and Bilal Taha were delighted to announce at the event launch conference that “SuperSlam is truly the event of the year, in terms of its wide appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

“Given how much locals have favored wrestling events in Qatar, this year we invited some of the top wrestlers to join our team and to provide the best show to all the wrestling fans here in Qatar.”

Date: April 28, 2017 Venue: Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, Doha

QPW World Heavyweight Championship title holder Chris Raaber told us over the phone, “I’ve been in Qatar before, but QPW SuperSlam will be very special to me. I am super excited to defend the QPW World Heavyweight Championship title against Alberto El Patron. He is my best friend.

But on this night he will be my enemy. It means friendship aside and only business. A better man will be the QPW World Heavyweight Champion and it will be the Bambi Killer!”

Timings: Gates open 6:00 PM, show starts 8:00 PM

SuperSlam promises to be an action-packed night that will be marked in the history of professional wrestling. n

Contact: For more information please email: info@qpw-wrestling.com or call 5574 4224.

Tickets: Available exclusively at www.aynatickets.com Bronze: QR 50 / Silver: QR 150 / Gold: QR 350 / VIP: QAR 500 Note: Special QPW Hotel Promotion Rate exclusively with DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Old Town from April 26-30: http://eventsathilton. com

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SPORTS

FULL MOON YOGA CALM, CONNECTION, CLARITY

Words by Eylin Pérez Selected Image by Jessie Palanca

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hat makes this lunar phase so special, and why is the full moon often associated with healing, purification, and energy?

For centuries, different cultures around the world have considered the full moon as a powerful energy cycle, as evidenced in various folklore writings and spiritual textbooks. In general terms, this specific time of the month has an intensifying and deepening effect on everything in your life.

The tremendous amount of energy emitted during this lunar stage tends to amplify whatever is going on in our bodies, minds, and spirits. A calm state of mind will receive a positive result, whilst an overwhelmed and stressed mind will generate the opposite effect. This makes it important to recognise your mind-set prior to the practice, directing it in a positive way and with the right intentions.

Meditation’s benefits are enhanced as well.

Beginning with a deeper purification and connection with our souls, there is a wide range of effects that will positively influence our general wellbeing. An increased sense of peace, calm, awareness, and stillness are some of the outcomes of meditation under the full moon light. More clarity of mind and a heightened consciousness of nature and ourselves are also on the list of advantages.

Event: Evolve Full Moon Yoga Class Venue: Grand Hyatt Doha Date and Time: April 11, 2017 / 7:30 PM Contact: Eylin Pérez, Evolve Mind|Body|Soul Call: +974 5040 3234 Email: info@evolvemindbodysoul.com Website: www.evolvemindbodysoul.com

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Imagine a yoga session on the beach, under the full moon light - isn’t that a magical scenario? Whether or not you’re familiar with yoga or meditation, such an experience, bathed in moon glow, will definitely be unforgettable.

The full moon is also a period of opportunity.

Take this opportunity to boost positive thoughts, blessings, and good intentions. Receive this opportunity for deep healing, for letting go, and moving on from stressful matters. And what an opportunity to achieve this with the power of a grounding yoga practice, followed by an uplifting meditation.

The moon yoga sequence is characterized by gentle flows, deep rooting, heart opening asanas (postures), and deep breathing to calm down the mind and body. Whatever your level of practice, the soft nature of the activity is suitable for everyone. From beginners to advanced yogis, variations will be provided according to their particular level of practice.

So if you’re looking to take a break from the routine and ease your mind, if you’re pursuing deep soul healing, or simply want to try something different, join our monthly Evolve Full Moon Yoga class at Grand Hyatt Doha on April 11, 7:30 PM. My gift to you is a chance to connect with the magic and energy of the full moon. Let your body, mind, and soul heal, be nurtured with light, and enjoy the peace of the lunar cycle. Set your intentions and join me to spread the positive intentions for and around Doha.

Porto Arabia Tower6 Perched atop one of the most prestigious towers on Porto Arabia,

the Penthouse offers four well-appointed bedrooms opening out onto large terraces, two lounges and a spacious kitchen, all tastefully decorated to high standards.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar • marketing@ahbqatar.com • www.ahbqatar.com • Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

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NEW

BILAL STUDIOS ST U D I O A N D 1 B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T S

The stylish tower offers studio and 1 bedroom apartments with modern furniture and appliances. The tower facilities include a well-equipped gym, outdoor rooftop swimming pool, a sundeck, 24-hour security and concierge and is a short stroll away from Grand Hamad St. and its associated amenities.

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Box 7848, Doha, Qatar • marketing@ahbqatar.com • www.ahbqatar.com • Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Be Pampered at SPA InterContinental

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Weekday Pool & Beach Access

Sun.-Thurs. Escape into a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation this April at the newly opened SPA InterContinental. Let our certified spa therapists take you on a journey of tranquility in one of our 16 luxurious SPA treatment rooms and suites. From 10:00am to 4:00pm, enjoy a special 30% discount on our a la carte treatments and 20% discount on our SPA packages. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers. For more information about our SPA Menu: please visit http://bit.ly/SPAInterConMenu For bookings and inquiries, please call 4484 4060 or email: spa.icdoha@ihg.com

Sun.-Thurs. Four Seasons Hotel Doha welcomes you to the perfect resort escape right in the heart of the city. Treat yourself to a day of sun, private beach access and five outdoor swimming pools while enjoying a QR 200 food & beverage credit at our Pool Grill Restaurant located right next to the beach.

Price is QR 375 per person. For more information, please call 44948801.

MĂ–VENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA The Spa

Daily. From 6am to 10pm. The Spa offers six treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a fitness centre that features Technogym equipment, as well as separate male and female steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzi. For inquiries, call 4445 5530.

GRAND HYATT DOHA Jaula Club Daytime Membership Special

For April. This year Jaula Club’s Daytime Membership Special is designed for fitness enthusiasts who enjoy a workout but not a crowd! Grab this opportunity and sign up for the Daytime Membership Special package that grants gym access between 6:00am at 3:00pm for 6 months at QR 5, 400 or 12 months at QR 9,600. Enjoy access to our indoor wet facilities and outdoor pool plus beach as part of this offer. This offer is valid until the end of April. Please call 4448 1060 for bookings and enquiries.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA CHI, The Spa

Daily. This luxury Asian-themed spa provide treatments starting at QR 250 to restore the balance of chi and are based on traditional well-being practices found across many Asian cultures while incorporating many natural Arabian elements. For inquires and reservation, call 4429 5000 or email chi.sldh@shangri-la.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

CHI, THE SPA

PAMPERING RITUALS BASED ON ASIAN WELLNESS TRADITIONS Words by Marian Nagy Images by Jessie Palanca

QH experienced a new mani-pedi that incorporates spa-style treatment into fabulous nail care.

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pon arriving at Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La, I basked in the ambiance of luxury lent by the trendy yet relaxed design of the space and its perfect lighting. I met the team, who are all experienced in the treatments offered and would be delighted to assist you in planning your spa programme.

This was nail care like no other. For the manicure and pedicure, the receptionist first conducted a brief consultation to determine my five element sign. This was to ensure that the treatments best suited to my needs would be selected.

I thought I would be sitting while my therapist, Orange, did my nails. But I was pleasantly surprised

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to find that at Chi, their mani-pedi is spa style!

After a warm soak for my feet and some moisturizer, Orange asked me to lie down and relax as if I was having a full body treatment. She was very much into the details, covering each hand after washing it with a different towel while working on my feet, fully caring about the skin being cleaned, refreshed, and moisturized. I was amazed with the drops used on my nails which softened the skin and allowed the dead skin to be removed fast and easily.

After removing the dead skin, trimming and shaping my nails gently, and cleaning again, she began putting on polish. First, a base coat to protect the nails from any chemicals in the polish, although they

already use very select brands of nail varnish. After a few seconds she applied the color coat, then last the topcoat that gives the glamorous and shiny look to your nails.

While waiting for the polish to dry, Orange gave me a gentle head and back massage which was a very nice touch that I appreciated very much.

I was most happy about every detail of my treatment. I will definitely return to Chi, The Spa at Shangri-la – the only place you can find spa-style manicure and pedicure services. n

Chi, The Spa the only luxury Asian-themed spa in Doha, invites everyone to be pampered with the renowned Shangri-La hospitality in a place of enchantment and well-being. Chi offers a unique selection of Asian and Arabic treatments based on authentic natural healing methods found in traditional well-being practices at a great value.

Address: Level 7, Shangri-La Hotel, Doha Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM Tel. No.: 4429 5000 Email: chi.sldh@shangri-la.com

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QH SENSATIONS

RELAXING

IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Selected Images by Jessie Palanca

Conveniently located in the Bin Mahmoud district, surrounded by malls and traditional markets, Centro Capital Doha and its a combination of upscale facilities and excellent service is the perfect place for a staycation.

QH tells you why.

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pon our check-in at Centro Capital Doha, we were greeted by a polite and well-prepared team who explained what to expect on our exciting staycation.

Centro Capital Doha is surrounded by major commercial centres and local and traditional markets, all just walking distance away. It's also very close to Souq Waqif and minutes away of the City Centre and Villagio Mall. If it is is your first time to visit, just use Google Maps and you will get to your destination.

Inside Centro Capital, you will forget that you are within the city. The Centro ethos is highly distinctive and is expressed through its contemporary architecture and unique living space, embodying the personality of an executive hotel. While dramatic exteriors reflect Centro's present-day style, its crisp and modern interiors provide essential requisites and advanced technologies.

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This was my first time to stay at Centro. I had been here before for dinner and happy hour but I was surprised to see how really spacious and beautiful it is. Our room had modern furniture and was equipped with a microwave oven, kitchen table, a living space with sofas and a coffee table, a beautiful shower, and comfortable bed. I can see why Centro Capital Doha has received the Booking.com™ Guest Review Award with an average of 8.5 rating for the year 2016.

I still had three hours before dinner so I decided to touch base at c.mondo Bar and Bites for happy hour. As the hotel bar, it serves as an ideal venue for a casual get-together over a cup of coffee or a refreshing cocktail. The environment is pleasant, there is a delicious selection of snacks, and you can have your sips for only QAR 20. This fantastic happy hour deal is offered daily except Fridays, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time.

Our next stop was c.taste Restaurant, which is an all-day-dining outlet serving a delicious array of international food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

I was in time for their Sea Food Night, held every Thursday evening and one of the best value dining options, offering an almost endless choice of fish, oysters, lobsters, prawns, crabs, calamari, and more.

It also has a spectacular atmosphere, with the chefs preparing and cooking dishes live in front of the guests, whose senses will surely buzz with the sights, sounds, smells, and exquisite tastes on offer. With this, the restaurant provides a distinctive unforgettable experience in a unique ambience where guests can enjoy a delectable dinner.

Apart from the fantastic food, I have to highlight that the staff are absolutely polite and helpful.

Service was impeccable all night long. I do enjoy being at a place where everyone is smiling and has the knowledge to answer all our questions.

We stayed until the end of service – 10:30 PM - and we returned to our comfortable room. The night was fantastic and I had a very good sleep.

Remember that we were in the heart of the city?

Well, we didn’t realise it, because we spent a quiet and relaxing night.

Waking up on a lazy Friday morning, we knew c.taste offers a complete buffet of international choices for breakfast. However, we decided to have room service instead.

Having our choice of room service menu while drinking our coffee and watching TV just made us feel like we were having an easy Friday morning at home. The sandwiches we ordered were delicious.

In every bite, you can savour the freshness and quality delivered by c.taste.

We also could have opted to grab food from c.deli, an innovative 24-hour grab-and-go dining concept in the hotel that allows guests to enjoy tasty food, sips, and quick snacks anytime.

We were thoroughly enjoying our lazy morning but we were given exciting news - we were scheduled for Friday brunch at c.taste and that was a very good reason for us to get out of our pyjamas and go for a nice meal downstairs.

An all-day dining restaurant, c.taste serves a delicious array of international food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With an intimate yet lively atmosphere, perfect for sampling a tempting selection of culinary delights, the restaurant’s Friday brunch buffet serves a variety of gourmet food prepared by very talented chefs.

The buffet was amazing. We found a bit of everything, choosing from fantastic dishes from worldwide cuisines that satisfy hunger with an explosion of flavours. Every single bite was delightful. At brunch time, the ground floor of Centro Capital becomes a world of attraction with an all-international section and desserts spread all over the restaurant and lobby. We truly enjoyed our brunch and the warm hospitality.

For the business traveller, Centro Capital Doha has two well-equipped meeting rooms designed to appeal to the new genre of executives who value effective solutions and efficient amenities.

For the sports enthusiast, whether your idea of unwinding is doing a few laps in a sparkling pool or pounding away on a state-of-the-art treadmill, Centro’s fitness options will suit every need.

The architectural feel of the space will energise and relax you after an exhilarating workout or a refreshing swim in the stunning rooftop pool. Centro is the perfect place to catch some rays and enjoy a relaxing sip.

We were very happy with our stay and it surprised me that I can feel I’m on holiday even in the heart of the city. I highly recommend Centro Capital Doha as a dining and happy hour destination. It’s where you will be spoiled and come to realise you just can’t get enough of its hospitality, taste, and service.

Thank you, Centro Capital Doha team for providing us an unforgettable staycation. I’ll be back! n

For bookings or more information: Phone: + 974 4455 5000 Website: www.rotana.com/centrohotels/qatar/ doha/centrocapitaldoha Address: Al Jazeera Street, Doha, Qatar Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes

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QH SENSATIONS

CANNES Where the glitterati relax in style Words by Francesca Cruz

Cannes, in the French Riviera, is the place to set off to when you want to experience true luxury and star treatment. This Mediterranean city provides travelers the indulgence of sun, celebrity, and celluloid.

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he grand jewel of the Côte d'Azur, Cannes, sits sovereign at the center point of the Mediterranean coastline known as the French Riviera. The hotspot where A-listers and celebrities swarm to during the Cannes Film Festival is festooned during the festivities with parties on mega yachts, fireworks, and devilishly delightful mayhem. This is the place where one can dance the night away in the company of a Leo Di Caprio or a Scarlett Johansson.

Favoured spot of artists and actors This regal patch of affluence on the southern French coast was once a subdued resort town that beckoned the bon vivant and the blessed.

No surprise Hemingway, Matisse, T. S. Elliot, Picasso, Chagall, and F. Scott Fitzgerald were bewitched by the Riviera. The latter wrote the famed novel The Great Gatsby on these shores.

The Côte d'Azur has some of the most magnificent views you could ever set your sights on. Villas and lavish homes are sprinkled about and tucked within the green mountain cliffs. They face a pastel stretch of blues: the sea, the color of bold turquoise and electric indigo, kisses the horizon turning it into the color of cornflower. This is a place to fall in love, to create art, or to live your life in poetry.

From this coveted latitude one could easily

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set off to any number of the many seaside towns nestled in cliffs up and down the coast. It’s about half-an-hour or an hour’s train or car ride from Cannes to Juan-les-Pins, Èze, Cap Ferrat, St. Tropez, and many more picturesque towns.

At the center, an iconic hotel At the heart of it all, and a symbol of opulence and affluence, is the Intercontinental Carlton Cannes.

The emblematic hotel that sits right on the famous Croisette Boulevard with the most coveted views of the devastatingly blue Mediterranean is a renowned landmark. This was the setting for the classic movie To Catch A Thief, directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring his muse Grace Kelly and the debonair Cary Grant. As movie lore asserts, it was in the grand ballroom of the Carlton where Prince Rainier of Monaco set eyes for the first time on the actress who would become Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco.

Designed in the Belle Époque style of the day and listed as a National Historic Building by the French government, this majestic and palatial hotel, constructed in 1909, was commissioned by the Russian Grand Duke Michael Mikhailovich, grandson of the Tsar of Russia.

The is synonymous with refinement, luxury, and excellence of service. With suites named after Hollywood royalty including Hitchcock, Kelly, Grant, Sophia Loren, and Sharon Stone, with the largest

Follow suit with what would only be civil in these shores - tea at Café Le Nôtre. Amid the upscale shops on Rue d’Antibes is this tea salon founded in 1862. Have a spot of tea and indulge in what the French do to perfection: pastries and confectionaries. This café has some of the very best desserts you’ll come across--the Éclair au Café dessert and the Macaron Chocolat Nounours are now favorites.

Cannes offers it all as a destination: beaches, history, breathtaking views, gastronomy, luxury, and something else that is very much its own: the enticing blend of sun, celebrity, and celluloid. It’s where you go when you want to feel like a star. n

suite being that of actor Sean Connery—this is the pinnacle of having arrived.

Sightseeing options abound Stroll on the illustrious shopping promenade La Croisette and stop in at Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Dior, or Chanel, all lining the outdoor mall with window displays fancied up in their Sunday best.

Shopping can certainly be a taxing affair, so enjoy lunch at the Michelin-star awarded Restaurant La Palme d'Or, or L'Affable—the traditional beef tartare is a must here. Or perhaps lunch on the beach is more for you; head to Bâoli Beach, just across the Intercontinental Carlton Cannes.

But to really enjoy the Mediterranean, set sail on a day excursion. With many options online, and of course upon arrival with your concierge, you can opt for a daytime catamaran cruise. Go snorkeling at the nearby Sainte-Marguerite Island, or set sail in the afternoon to catch the setting sun on the Mediterranean. Another option is to take a day excursion of the French Riviera, with stops in Antibes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Èze, and the city-state of Monaco.

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QH SENSATIONS

h s i D TheQatar on

GOOD

Words by Carmela Yao

QH takes you to the souqs and stores around Doha to find out where bargains can be had for the least amount of bucks.

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y favourite pasttime is going to the malls or souqs every weekend to check out what’s new and what’s in, and checking online for best deals. My shopping aim is to get more things for my Qatari riyals.

That’s why I make sure to check around before buying anything. Here’s a list of several outlets and websites that offer great bargains all year round without compromising service and quality.

DAISO Location: 1st floor, HomesRUs, Hyatt Plaza | 1st Floor, Entrance 3, Gulf Mall | 1st Floor, Al Khor Mall Store hours: Saturdays to Wednesdays – 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Thursdays – 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM | Fridays – 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM I called this “the Japan store” because all their items are from Japan. Most of their items are tagged at QAR 7. This is my personal favourite for bric-a-brac and other nifty stuff. Their ceramic ware will give you a taste for Japanese culture. Their health and beauty products are amazing; my top pick is the Reusable Silicon Mask Cover for Cracked Heels – a good buy for people with dry and cracked heels. This hyakuen (100 yen) shop never fails to amaze me each time I visit.

DOLLAR PLUS STORE Location: East Court Basement of City Centre Mall Store hours: Mondays to Wednesdays – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Thursdays & Sundays - 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM | Fridays – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM This is a US concept store where they sell items from QAR 1 to 20 each. They have a mish-mash of household items, kitchenware, decorations, toys,

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accessories, and party needs, just to name a few of the goods they stock. Some of their suppliers are from the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and China. If you are planning to have a theme party, this is my one-stop shop for party needs.

BRANDS OUTLET Location: Salwa Road (near Doha British School) Store hours: Saturdays to Thursdays – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM | Fridays – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM This outlet was formerly known as Brands for Less.

Their store name says it all. Most of their items are branded apparel, footwear, bags, and other fashion items at a cheaper price. Emporio Armani in all sizes, Gianfranco Ferre, and U.S. Polo Assn are some

of their branded clothing. For footwear, they have Nine West, Jessica Simpson, Anne Klein, and other great brands.

A piece of advice: try it before you buy it. My most recent grab was a Tommy Hilfiger pair of jeans for only QAR 50 (USD 13). As their tagline says “Smile, you just paid less.” So as I paid for my jeans, I grinned.

OUTLET QATAR – Dress for Less Location: Salwa Road (near Qatar Medical Center) Store hours: Saturdays to Thursdays – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Fridays – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM

• This is another clothing store. Here you will find a random range of branded items like MK, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and a lot more for a bit less than the shops in the malls. All their products are from the United States and Germany.

Prices range from QAR 25 to QAR 3,500.

X-PO Centre Location: 3rd Floor, City Centre Mall Store hours: Mondays to Wednesdays – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Thursdays & Sundays - 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM | Fridays – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM

This is an anything and everything fresh produce market. The produce they sell is seasonal and some local produce sold here is not available in the big supermarkets.

I usually visit this market every Friday morning and was recently able to buy red spinach for QAR 3 per bundle and QAR 5 for a small crate of red carrots.

The sellers will even let you taste their fruits before you buy them.

An arts and crafts store, it carries a wide variety of useful boxes and ornaments, many decorated with gold filigree that represents the culture and art of Qatar. There are plenty of souvenir items, wall decorations with Arabic script, tea sets, and different sizes of camel figurines. My recent purchase: a small daedal jewelry box for QAR 7.

Next to this market is the Fish Market where you can buy fresh catches at 60 percent to 75 percent lower than supermarket prices. You just have to get up early for stall hopping and carry your own shopping bags. This is a bit of work but there are “hamali” (labourers) who will walk around with you and carry your shopping bags or cartons. One carton costs from QAR 5 to 10 depending on the size, and there is a minimum of QAR 10 for the labour fee, as well as additional for tips.

SOUQ HARAJ Location: Al Arab Street, Mansourah

Q GRABS – Online Local Deals Website: www.qgrabs.com

Store hours: Sundays to Thursdays - 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Fridays – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Store hours: Open 24/7

If you want to buy cheap secondhand chattels, this is the place to go. You will find used accents, sofa sets, dining tables, beds, and household accessories.

They even sell pre-owned air conditioners and refrigerators. On Friday afternoons, you will be fighting your way around the shops for there are plenty of hodgepodge curtains, beddings, and other household goods along the street. Make sure to transact directly with the shop staff or you will end up negotiating with a middleman and you’ll end up paying for more.

KILO BAZAAR Location: Off Salwa Road (adjacent to the Wholesale Market) Store hours: Open daily – as early as 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

I like this online local deal store the most. They have amazing deals on dining, travels, beauty and self-care, spa, knickknacks, and even online courses.

You have to subscribe to their newsletter so as not to miss out on the best bargains.

I am an avid buyer of their buy-one, take-one dining deals. Forgot to buy a gift for a special occasion?

No worries, you can send a gift through them or buy the voucher and gift it. No credit card? Not an issue.

They have payment options aside from credit card payment, including deposit pick up, office deposit, and electronic fund transfer.

Remember: Plan your shopping, compare prices, sleep on it, check reviews, and never buy something you don’t need. Lastly, take this list with you as you explore the best of Qatar while saving your Qatari riyals. n

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DOHA AT A GLANCE

Four Seasons Hotel Doha Welcomes New Manager Four Seasons Hotel Doha announces the appointment of Andrea Obertello as hotel manager to oversee the award-winning property in the heart of Doha’s cosmopolitan city.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels Launches Family Package The Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, the five-star designer collection of boutique hotels located in the heart of the historic Souq Waqif in Doha, launched its exquisite family package specially designed for the enjoyment, well-being, and comfort of all family members especially young children.

Guests will relish the unforgettable experiences from an upscale level of services by enjoying amenities such as a daily buffet breakfast and dinner for two.

Dining choices vary between Moroccan, Lebanese, or Italian cuisines, magnificently presented at Al Terrace restaurant, Argan restaurant, or La Piazza restaurant, where children accompanied by their parents enjoy a complimentary dinner.

To add a magic touch to the family package, the offer includes an extra 30 minutes for any spa treatment booked (starting from 60 minutes).

According to Hafidh Al Busaidy, Cluster General Manager of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, “Thanks to its unique style, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels is well known to be the perfect sanctuary where guests can unwind from the city’s noise and pressure, and enjoy privacy, recreation, and relaxation."

A 13-year veteran of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Obertello brings a wealth of international hospitality experience to Qatar’s award-winning property. She joins the hotel most recently from Four Seasons Resort Marrakech in Morocco, where she served as resort manager.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Andrea to Doha,” said Todd Cilano, Regional Vice-President and General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Doha. “Andrea’s extensive international experience now spanning five continents, along with her in-depth brand knowledge and service-driven ingenuity, will be a valuable asset to the hotel and in leading our talented team.”

As hotel manager, Obertello will oversee the day-today operations at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, including managing the 232-room hotel, the Spa and Fitness Center, Elements Restaurant, Shisha Terrace, and the award-winning Nobu Doha by world-renowned chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa.

Obertello has worked globally with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and has held a variety of roles ranging from reservations and front office to Four Seasons residences.

She has held manager and director roles at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze; Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts’ Palazzo Tornabuoni Private Club; Four Seasons Hotel Miami; and Four Seasons Resort Carmelo in Uruguay, where she began her career with the company as Front Office Assistant Manager.

Maserati Qatar Launches First Certified Pre-Owned Sales Campaign Acknowledging the timeless appeal of owning a Maserati, Alfardan Sports Motors, official dealer of Maserati Qatar, launches a certified pre-owned campaign.

The new manufacturer-backed campaign assures Maserati enthusiasts the highest levels of quality and performance the brand is renowned for.

The offer extends across a number of Maserati’s high performance models, including the Quattroporte and Ghibli. It also includes warranty and service packages that vary based on the model year as well as a premium aftersales process, thereby increasing the attractiveness of the promotion.

Commenting on the campaign, Alfardan Sports Motors General Manager Charly Dagher said, “We are delighted to introduce this new campaign that will allow more customers to experience the Italian heritage and craftsmanship that Maserati is revered for.

“Since the Quattroporte and Ghibli are popular models in the Qatari market, we are giving potential clients the chance to own their dream car at prices that start at QR 180,000.”

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DOHA AT A GLANCE

Celebrity Chef Deema Hajjawi Creates a Culinary Feast for Qatar’s Foodies Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Qatar’s iconic social landmark, together with Qatar Airways, the country’s official airline, has proudly invited Qatar’s epicureans to an exciting dining experience – a chance to meet popular Jordanian chef Deema Hajjawi.

As one of the most recognized celebrity chefs in the region, Deema is known for injecting full-on flavor into simple local and international dishes. Since the launch of her cooking career in 2000, Deema’s enthusiasm for helping people to create quick, tasty meals at home has gained her a loyal fan base and the attention of multiple international companies as ambassador for leading culinary brands Knorr and Phillips.

She is also a celebrated author, with three best-selling titles under her belt.

This latest offering from Sheraton Grand Doha’s Al Hubara restaurant welcomes Deema Hajjawi who brings the excitement and high energy of her cooking to the restaurant floor. She has influenced the menu at Al Hubara’s weekend brunches in March, bringing guests four varieties of the traditional dish Fattet Makdous, a tasty traditional Middle Eastern dish she has been cooking for friends and family for many years.

Elan Media Launches Digital Control Center ‘Elan Live’ Cutting-edge technology empowers advertising capabilities at Mall of Qatar, Doha Festival City, and Ezdan Mall Elan Media, Qatar’s leading out-of-home advertising (OOH) innovation driver, has launched Elan Live, the first digital control centre of its kind in Qatar.

Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha Launches Online Booking Service As part of Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha’s soft opening celebrations, visitors will benefit from amazing offers upon booking and enjoy unparalleled business and leisure amenities during their stay at Qatar’s new luxury destination.

Gearing up for its much-awaited soft opening date in March 2017, Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha, a splendid five-star property soon to be added to Qatar’s portfolio of luxury properties, announced the launch of its online booking service starting from March 2017.

Visitors from Doha and neighbouring GCC countries now have access to exclusive promotions and offers to celebrate the opening of this splendid 396-suite property, which will mark a new chapter in Qatar’s luxury hospitality scene.

Elan Live is a cuttingedge control suite from which Elan Media will control the content delivery to all 242 digital screens operating in Mall of Qatar, Doha Festival City, and Ezdan Mall.

The launch of Elan Live reflects Elan Group’s overall commitment to innovation, bringing new communication solutions that will increase engagement between brands and audiences.

Elan Live opens up a multitude of special executions for brands that want to reach their audience in the most creative and synchronized fashion, delivering tailor-made solutions in a manner not seen before in Qatar.

Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha, is nestled in the heart of West Bay’s central business district and will be a prime destination for executives and families relocating to Doha, as well as for travelers visiting Doha from around the region and internationally.

It will allow advertisers the flexibility to run time of day, day of week, and geo-located campaigns across all three malls simultaneously, individually, or customized to an advertisers’ specific requirements. Advertising can be programmed to run on one screen once or all of the screens all of the time.

This outstanding luxury serviced hotel-apartments managed by the Frasers Hospitality Group offers options for both long-term and short-term stays and a fine selection of 396 fully furnished suites, including studios, one-, two-, and three bedrooms, combined with state-of-the-art facilities.

With three large screens including two digital MUPIs (signs) similar to those available in the malls, Elan Live also provides advertisers with the opportunity to watch a real-time preview of their campaigns before they go live, giving them full control over their communication.

HH the Emir’s Trophy Presented by Longines Marks Successful Conclusion Doha provided the ideal backdrop for an exhilaration-filled conclusion of the HH the Emir’s Sword event.

Held annually at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, HH the Emir’s Sword is one of the definitive equestrian events on Qatar’s horse-racing calendar and is a perfect mix of elegance and outstanding performance.

The thrilling competition saw Chopin, mounted by jockey Alberto Sanna, win the HH The Emir’s Trophy presented by Longines. At an event supported by Longines, elegance cannot be far behind and so, the occasion also crowned Cyrine Cherif as the most elegant Lady of the Day and honored her with a stunning Longines timepiece.

As a token of its long-running passion for equestrian sports and its attachment to its lady customers, Longines launched The Equestrian Collection, a new line with shapes and materials inspired by iconic elements of the equine world. The official watch of the event is a stirrup-shaped timepiece in steel set with diamonds, which displays a silver-coloured flinqué dial featuring Roman numerals. It is fitted with a matching overstitched leather strap.

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DOHA AT A GLANCE

Master Belgian Chocolatier Opens First Galler Boutique in Qatar Galler, the iconic Belgian chocolatier, has opened its first GCC boutique and tea room in the Mall of Qatar, the country’s signature retail precinct.

Galler Qatar was officially opened by His Excellency Christophe Payot, Ambassador of Belgium to Qatar, during a prestigious ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Johnny De Gouveia, Group Executive Director; Mr. Donald Batal, CEO, Galler Qatar; Mrs. Ghada Naim, Business Development Manager; and an assortment of the Gulf states’ most influential media and online personalities.

Galler Qatar’s boutique is a joy to the eye as well as on the taste buds. Their renowned colorful pralines and chocolates are displayed in a manner reflecting the founder’s passion for creativity and originality.

Whether indulging in a little sweet treat for yourself or hand-picking a lavish gift for someone special, the Galler Qatar boutique serves an extensive range to cater for all tastes and preferences.

New Boutique Style Fitness Concept Launched In Qatar The ambassador of the Netherlands to Qatar, H.E. Dr. Bahia Tahzib-Lie, recently attended the opening of the first fit20 studio in Qatar.

Fit20 is changing lives and improving health across Europe due to its researchbased innovative approach and promises to produce positive changes to strength, fitness and wellbeing with just one weekly 20-minute session.

Ambassador T​ ahzib-Lie said, “​I am proud that​ ​​the Dutch fitness​ ​​franchise opened its first studio outside of Europe and chose Qatar as its regional headquarters.

“I am happy that fit20 will now actively contribute to building healthy lifestyles in Qatar, the regional sports hub. Such initiative supports achieving a healthy population, one of the main objectives of the Human Development pillar in Qatar National Vision 2030. It’s great to be active and feel fit, and sports brings people, cultures, and countries together.”

Mohammed Khattab, Building Manager of Al Bawakir Building, said, “The new studio looks fantastic and we wish the fit20 team the very best in their new business.”

Founded in the Netherlands in 2009, fit20 has witnessed remarkable growth throughout Europe. For more information, visit www.fit20.qa.

Volkswagen Qatar Launches New Service Centre New facility provides world-class aftersales support Q-Auto, the official importer of Volkswagen in Qatar, welcomed the new year by fulfilling its long-standing resolution of delivering unparalleled automotive experiences for customers through a premium range of aftersales benefits and amenities.

Located in the Industrial Area, the dealership’s new state-ofthe-art service facility offers an exclusive selection of servicing and maintenance options for its customers.

The precinct features a cluster of top-class mechanical working bays that serves 19 Volkswagen cars at a time. This is in addition to dedicated units for genuine parts, new body shop, washing bays, detailing bays, and a polishing section and window tinting section, alongside an extensive space for parking.

The Volkswagen Service Centre is located in the Industrial Area, Street 41, Gate 59, and operates from 8:00 PM to 5:00 PM Saturday to Wednesday, and 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Thursday.

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Sealine Beach Reveals Its Revamped Facilities Qatar’s first leisure destination, Sealine Beach, a Murwab Resort, recently hosted VIP guests and members of the media at a special gathering to reveal the five-star resort’s fullyrenovated facilities.

The ladies and gentlemen at Sealine Beach took the invitees on an extensive tour of the premises, where they were introduced to a multitude of world-class recreational and entertainment venues for a firsthand experience of the resort’s signature hospitality services.

During their tour, guests were chaperoned through Sealine Beach Resort’s 77 refurbished guest units, all of which boast fully-redesigned interiors including installations of bathrooms, vanity, and kitchen amenities, as well as a private balcony or terrace, perfect for travelers and groups of friends aiming to spend a joyful vacation getaway from the city’s busy life.

Visitors were acquainted with the luxury resort’s new extensions, which will host 18 additional villas, each featuring three or four bedrooms with private swimming pools and a 24-hour in-room dining service. These facilities will cater to the preferences of families and travelers who value the element of privacy in a reclusive accommodation.

Etihad Airways Continues Sustainability Drive Across Its Global Airline Fleet Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, continues to make improvements in the fuel efficiency of its fleet, resulting in substantial reductions in carbon dioxide emissions and reinforcing the sustainability credentials of the airline.

The airline’s dedicated fuel efficiency team drove numerous initiatives across all operational functions of the business, saving over 60,000 tonnes of fuel in 2016.

This 2.5% improvement amounts to nearly 190,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide savings, the equivalent of 1,200 flights between Abu Dhabi and London or the removal of over 40,000 cars from the road.

Fuel consumption is influenced by many factors such as the aircraft and engine type, the weight being carried, and the duration of the flight. The airline is working on several key initiatives to optimise efficiency, both with the aircraft itself and through external collaboration with aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus.

DOHA AT A GLANCE

UDC Extends Silver Sponsorship of H.H The Emir’s Sword United Development Company (UDC), a leading Qatari shareholding company, has signed a silver sponsorship agreement with the Qatar Equestrian Federation (QEF) to sponsor H.H The Emir’s Sword International Showjumping Championship for the fifth consecutive year.

The hugely popular event was held at the Indoor Arena of the Qatar Equestrian Federation.

The press conference held at the QEF announcing the sponsorship was concluded in the presence of its General Secretary Mr. Saeed Mohammed Al Shafi, and Mr. Hussain Akbar Al Baker, representing UDC in his capacity as Marketing and Communications Director, in addition to senior officials from both establishments.

UDC is committed to serving the development and well-being of the Qatari community and therefore always participates in supporting national initiatives that lead to the enhancement of society.

UK’s Leading Art Supplies Store Opens Branch in Qatar Under the patronage of its chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar Museums (QM) has joined forces with the UK’s leading independent art supplies retailer, Cass Art, to open one of their famous retail stores in the Doha Fire Station, home to QM’s Artist in Residence programme.

“A Duty, Not A Favor”: Qatar Charity Launches Zhaab Initiative The program provides financial support to needy communities and families in Qatar

The Fire Station: Artist in Residence programme, which started in September 2015, sits at the heart of Doha’s thriving art community. The residency programme is open to local Qatari artists and residents of Qatar, and runs in nine-month cycles.

Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar Charity recently launched the Zhaab initiative at a press conference attended by Mr. Yusuf Bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, CEO of Qatar Charity, and Mr. Talal Al Kuwari, Executive Director of the Zhaab initiative.

Cass Art at the Fire Station will support QM’s vision of creating a platform for innovative art and design by providing artists with an unrivalled choice of top quality art materials from renowned heritage brands.

The Zhaab initiative was established by Qatar Charity under the slogan ‘A Duty, not a Favor,’ to provide support to the communities and families in need inside Qatar.

This initiative demonstrates QM’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and builds on a longer tradition of QM’s patronage to the arts, as well as its passion for supporting the development of artistic talent in Qatar.

“Zhaab” is a colloquial Qatari word that refers to a personal object of great value, be it moral or material. In this context it pertains to Qatari society.

W Doha Hotel & Residences Turns Eight in Style W Doha Hotel & Residences, the first luxury lifestyle hotel in Qatar, turned eight on March 5, a milestone among the steady string of accomplishments and accolades the hotel has garnered since its inception.

Over the years, W Doha has sealed its reputation as one of the most happening venues not only in the country but in the whole region.

Considered an iconic modern sanctuary, it remains the go-to hotel for guests seeking top-notch service, unforgettable culinary experiences, and buzzing nightlife action.

Because of the name it has built, W Doha has also paved the way for the opening of other W Hotels in the Middle East.

Speaking about the secret to the hotel’s success, Safak Guvenc, Area Manager Qatar and Oman, Starwood Hotels & Resort, and General Manager of W Doha, said, “W Doha has the highest guest satisfaction score amongst all W Hotels around the world. We take the philosophy of putting our customers at heart seriously. But we wouldn’t have achieved that through outstanding service alone.

“We are also proud to have high employee satisfaction, with diverse talents coming from 62 countries. We are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that allow us to lead the way particularly in technology, and we are grateful to have a management that is open and agile to responding to the changing market needs.

“All of these elements, including the trust and credibility we’ve built with our guests, partners, industry peers, award-giving bodies, and authorities, continue to strengthen us, reward us, and push us further to do more to keep the cycle of excellence strong.

Commenting on the importance of launching such initiatives in Qatar, Mr. Al-Kuwari said, “His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, The Emir of Qatar, and His Highness Sheikh Hamad Al Thani, The Father Emir, have stressed the importance of giving back to the community to establish a society based on justice, charity, and equality, as stated in the Qatar National Vision 2030.”

Rotana Strengthens Position With New Properties Two hotel projects in Doha worth US$250 million to support national vision of welcoming 7M visitors by 2030 Rotana, one of the leading hotel management companies in the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Eastern Europe, is entering 2017 with aims to strengthen its already formidable presence in Qatar’s vibrant hospitality sector with two properties in the pipeline.

Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Rotana Hotels 2017 GCC Roadshow, Chief Operating Officer Guy Hutchinson said that the fourth quarter of 2018 will witness the opening of Downtown Arjaan by Rotana, Doha, followed by the company’s first property in Qatar under its Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts brand – the Plaza Rayhaan by Rotana, Doha, which will be unveiled in Q4-2019. The projects represent a total investment of USD 250 million.

Rotana already operates a portfolio of four properties in Qatar: two five-star hotels, City Centre Rotana and Oryx Rotana; Centro Capital Doha; and Sedra Residences by Rotana.

The new properties will add 765 rooms to the company’s existing inventory of 1,510 rooms in Qatar, for a total of 2,275 keys.

Rotana’s expansion efforts are in line with its aim to support Qatar’s economic diversification strategy and contribute towards the country’s vision of attracting seven million visitors by 2030.

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IT HAPPENED

HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani graced the event.

HH THE EMIR’S SWORD EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL Racing and Equestrian Club, Al Rayyan, Feb. 23-25, 2017

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IT HAPPENED

THE QH GRAB BAG WINNER Adagio Premium ApartHotel West Bay Feb. 16, 2017

CARNIVAL VENICE Antica Pesa Feb. 23, 2017 123

IT HAPPENED

IPANEMA CARNIVAL Marriott Marquis City Center Doha,

GALLER OPENING Mall of Qatar, Feb. 27, 2017 124

Feb. 23, 2017

IT HAPPENED

ZHAAB PRESS CONFERENCE St. Regis Hotel, Feb. 28, 2017

LUSH OPENING Mall of Qatar, Mar. 1, 2017 125

IT HAPPENED

BOUZOUKI NIGHT MEDIA PREVIEW Mykonos, InterContinental Doha, Mar. 5, 2017

SPA INTERCONTINENTAL AND SHAPE & STYLE SALON GRAND OPENING InterContinental Doha, Mar. 6, 2017 126

IT HAPPENED

INDONESIAN FOOD FESTIVAL InterContinental Doha the City, Mar. 7, 2017

FANAJEEN CAFE OPENING The Gate Mall, Mar. 8, 2017 127

IT HAPPENED

DUCATI PARTY Antica Pesa, Mar. 9, 2017

THE QH GRAB BAG WINNER Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Mar. 10-11, 2017 128

IT HAPPENED

LC WAIKIKI OPENING Hyatt Plaza, Mar. 9, 2017

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IT HAPPENED

UCQ INTERNATIONAL DAY University of Calgary Campus, Mar. 18, 2017

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IT HAPPENED

FERRARI QATAR 70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS LAUNCH Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Mar. 19, 2017

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PHONE DIRECTORY Sri Lankan Airlines Turkish Airlines

HOTELS Adagio Premium ApartHotel West Bay Al Gassar Resort AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Centro Capital Doha City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Diplomatic Club Doha Marriott Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Four Seasons Mรถvenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha The Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Millennium Hotel Doha Mรถvenpick Hotel Mรถvenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Grand Doha The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Wyndham Grand Regency

4403-8888 4424-4881 4489 9000 4040-5050 4402 3333 4445-8888 4408-7777 4484 7444 4429-8888 4034 3333 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1428 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333

AIRLINES Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air France 4444-5101 American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India

4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 Oman Air 4432-0509 Qatar Airways 4449-6666 Royal Jordanian 4443-1431

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY

HEALTH / BEAUTY Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Franรงaise 4468-9211 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 Heavenly Spa 4492-1555 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083

TOURISM / TRAVEL Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental

AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT

999

DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL 4438-4333 EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999 AL AHLI HOSPITAL 4489-8000 HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL 4439-2222

RUMAILAH HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD & WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE

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4444-1217 4443-3027

4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8817 Chowking Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 FOOD SERVICE German Bakery Company 4442 8877 Coffee Planet 4442 8877 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

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

EMBASSIES American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

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