Qatar Happening January 2017

QATAR’S FAVOURITE EVENTS MAGAZINE

QR 10

January 2016

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rful! u o l o C et Sun Let’s G n Under The

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usical Touches Dow n ‘Paws First’ In Qatar

st Ru The Happie

Win A Night’s Stay For Two

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ent & Spa Treatm a h c n u L A h Wit Doh Hilton e e r T ble At Dou

ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS

For Another Exhilara ting ExxonM o b i l Op en

CULTURE

FOOD

COMMUNITY

SPORTS

Life in Desert “a picture that brings you Al-Thakira, a lonely land at the north end of Al-Khor in Qatar, presents a large expense of natural greenery in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert landscape�

Location: Al-Thakira, Qatar Photo by Razeen Abdul Gaffar Prize: 2 Tickets for Cats Musical Look out for our photography competition, "Qatar Through Your Eyes" on our website and social media platform.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg XX Cats: The Biggest Musical On The Planet Comes To Doha

January 2017 EVERY ISSUE 7

ENTERTAINMENT

Chairman's Letter

Our Chairman shares a few choice words with our readership

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The QH Grab-Bag

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It Happened

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Phone Directory

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Top Picks

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Top Picks

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Meg Ryan: America’s Sweetheart Makes Her Directorial Debut

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Muhammad Ali: Tribute To A Legend

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha Need-to-know phone numbers

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

ARTS & CULTURE

We visit The Museum of Islamic Arts, which is currently exhibiting artefacts related to world boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

QH catches up with Meg Ryan, and she’s certainly been busy!

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Party Happenings

Partygoers rejoice! The Westin Hotel & Spa teams up with Spirit Night to bring you the latest experience in nightlife.

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Rabi’ah M. talks to Qatar-based Lebanese first-time author Lena Salha, whose novel is an exciting story of survival, strength and self

Virgin Recommends

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

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Spotlight On Movies

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Entertainment Listings

Our top five must-see films of the month

Lena Salha: Writing On Survival, Strength, And Self

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Arts & Culture Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

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

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 35

Top Picks

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Mum In Doha

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Community Listings

This month, Mum in Doha gives us her insights into lessons learned from pregnancy and some beautiful baby products she recommends Find out everything that’s going on this month

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Game, Set , Match! Get Ready To Play In The Qatar ExxonMobil Open!

FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

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Top Picks

61

Top Picks

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Top Picks

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Latino Steakhouse Dishes Up South American Classics

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2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open Tennis Tournament: Bringing The Biggest Names In Tennis To Doha

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Mounting Excitement in Sicily

Luciana Cunha Franca graces the Sheraton Doha’s premier Latin restaurant for a fiesta of culinary delights

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Tasty & Healthy

The QH team drop in on Sharq Village and Spa restaurant, Al Dana to try out their life-extending Ikarian cuisine

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The Color Run's New Edition Hits Doha Next Month

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Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

HAVE YOUR SAY Feedback and comments are always welcome.

Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com luciana@qatarhappening.com

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76

Miami: A Foodie Paradise

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Transforming Lives

Francesca Cruz sheds light on the blossoming food scene in Florida’s favourite city

QH investigates the latest therapeutic approach to beauty treatments, billed as the ‘One stop shop for your beauty & wellness needs’

The Color Run is back in town, so prepare to get powdered up all pretty like!

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

20th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Tourney Slated This Month

The golfing elite compete once again for the chance to win the coveted Mother of Pearl trophy

Chef Nobu: A world Master Of Cookery

QH attends an exclusive cooking class with celebrity Chef Nobu Matsuhisa at Four Seasons Hotel Doha

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We’ve got all the news from the forthcoming 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open, which brings the world’s biggest names in professional men’s tennis to Doha

John Hunt takes to the idyllic streets of Catania, and delights in its ethereal charm

Call Details: Inquiries: +974 4443-2224 +974 4427-8416 Marketing: +974 5584-4905 Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar

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

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.

Printed by Aspire Printing Press - 2017

FROM THE DESK OF THE CHAIRMAN Dear friends, Greetings, and allow me to extend my warmest welcome to you all.

The passage of time, like the seasons and the cycle of life, is a tenacious force. Undoubtedly it should be the undertaking of each and every one of us to embrace what we have, and make the most of all that we have been so fortunately blessed with as citizens of this distinguished nation. We are now in the first month of a new year, and I wholly expect 2017 to be one that is joyous for us all.

At our helm, we have a true captain and visionary; the Honorable Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who will guide us into a new era and ever brighter future. The list of his accomplishments on our behalf are already astonishing. His commitment, foresight and prowess mean that we are well on our way to realizing our goals for our National Vision 2030, whilst our position within the global community continues to be elevated thanks to his tireless humanitarian and diplomatic endeavors.

It also brings me great satisfaction to say that, over the course of the past year, I have seen even more progress and advancement than I had hoped for in a multitude of sectors. Commerce is booming, and progress towards the Qatar National Vision of 2030 is advancing along admirably. Preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup are ahead of schedule, with the event bolstering investment and driving the construction industry to greater heights.

Qatar will invest up to $13 billion in major infrastructure projects in 2017 , with a predicted 3.4% growth for this year, which is even better than that of 2016. An increased investment of upwards of 46 billion Qatari riyals in multiple mega projects reflects the country’s commitment to achieving these goals.

I hope you have all managed to achieve all that you wished, and succeeded in the tasks and goals that you no doubt set for yourselves over the past 12 months.

Indeed, I am sure that we all will embrace the new year that is now upon us by pushing ourselves further and higher, by setting ourselves new targets and challenges, and in realizing them we shall benefit not only ourselves but all those around us that make up this great nation.

The themes that define us and cultural values we hold, and that have played a great part in forging our beautiful country remain a great source of pride for me. Even though we live in interesting, fast-paced times of great technological change, I draw strength from and am encouraged by what I observe. We have not forgotten our proud heritage, and by remaining true to ourselves we move forward with our heads held high and with the courage to overcome any challenge that may present itself in the future.

Let us only look back with a great sense of pride at all that we have achieved together, and embrace the glorious and prosperous future that awaits each and every one of us.

As ever, it is my sincerest wish that 2017 brings you all further good health, success and fulfillment.

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Chairman, AHB Group

Chairman

Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Editor-In-Chief

Mr. Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca

Copy Editor

Jennifer Ortuoste

Editorial Coordinator Hairiya Santos

Art Director / Production Manager Lindsey Steenkamp

Lead Designer / Brand Manager

Sales & Marketing Manager

Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager

Photographer

Office Administrator

Web Coordinator

Zahi Srour

Jessie Palanca

Luciana Cunha Franca Carmela Yao

Marian Nagy Imran Khan

Distribution Assistant Jaya Prasad Gautam

Contributors

Luciana Cunha Franca, Jenny Ortuoste, Paul Martin, Carmela Yao, John Hunt, Lindsey Steenkamp, Lynsey Riach, Francesca Cruz, Rowad Ehlela, Steffen Sommer, Rabiah M., Wajeeha Malik, Rejan Gaafar

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This month’s Grab Bag is all about starting the year fresh by indulging yourself! QH is giving away one night’s stay for two at Double Tree By Hilton Doha Old Town with breakfast and lunch at their lobby restaurant L2, a 60-minute treatment at the Aqua Lounge Spa, and a night cap at rooftop bar PURE. To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on January 10.

Images courtesy of Double Tree By Hilton Doha Old Town

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ith a fast-growing, global collection of more than 425 upscale hotels in gateway cities, metropolitan areas, and vacation destinations, DoubleTree by Hilton is defined by its unique Culture of CARE, which stands for “Create A Rewarding Experience” for guests, Team Members, and the community.

Qatar’s newest five-star international hotel is an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.

The contemporary DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha Old Town boasts spacious rooms and suites and a unique, all-day dining restaurant which is open 24 hours. Located in Old Salata, the hotel is 12 kilometers from Hamad International Airport, with easy access to the Corniche, the banking district, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Emiri Diwan Palace.

All of the spacious guest rooms offer panoramic city views with floor-to-ceiling windows. Visitors will feel right at home with a wardrobe, a desk, and complimentary WiFi. Stunning suites, which offer views of the harbor or West Bay skyline, include an equipped kitchenette and spacious bathroom.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha Old Town looks forward to welcoming all guests with its signature, warm chocolate chip cookie.

Leisure & Wellness

Guests can energize in the complimentary 24-hour fitness center or refresh in the rooftop swimming pool, within sight of the magnificent views across Doha’s iconic Corniche, Museum of Islamic Arts, and the West Bay. Also providing soothing services are the steam room and sauna for added relaxation and wellness, and the spa for skincare treatments.

L2 Dining & PURE

Whether it is for a quick bite or a relaxed meal, L2, the main dining restaurant on the second floor, will satisfy every craving throughout the day. Guests choose from a wide selection of international specialties, sandwiches, coffees, and freshly baked pastries. Everything is served through the live cooking experience offered from the open kitchen, a fresh and urban approach to an eatery that inspires

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guests to enjoy a fun and engaging experience. The afternoon tea and smoothing Liquid Bar menus are also popular, while on hand is the knowledgeable staff ready to provide in-depth information about the food and venue. It’s a good place for family and friends to chill out and have a bite.

Guests can also take advantage of the sparkling rooftop pool that transforms into a magnificent, chic, and lively lounge at night, aptly called PURE. Diners enjoy sips whilst nibbling on Mediterraneaninspired dishes and enjoying a great view of the city. PURE is a popular venue offering a sophisticated and chic ambiance, an impeccable team, and world-class entertainment. n Address: DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Old Town, Al Meena Street, Doha, Qatar.

Website: www.dohaoldtown.doubletree Call: +974-4034-3333.

Bookings: To make reservations at any DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, visit www. doubletree.com, or connect with us at facebook.com/doubletree, twitter.com/doubletree, and youtube.com/doubletreehotels.

Media: Reporters and bloggers may visit our DoubleTree by Hilton Global Media Center at news.doubletree.com for more information.

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Sparkling Fridays at The Lounge

Fridays at The Lounge are bright and sparkling! The Lounge welcomes all ladies with two complimentary glasses of bubbly accompanied by the live performance of Jessica Gibson. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, contact 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

DOHA MARRIOTT The View Poolside Restaurant Happy Hour

Daily: The View is a beautifully designed terrace style space located directly on the pool deck with excellent views over the Doha City Skyline. Enjoy your weekend brunch under the sun at the only outdoor pool terrace in Doha. Stop by with a friend and join us for our daily Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. and enjoy the fantastic views and atmosphere that The View has to offer! For reservations call 4429-8499.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Girl’s Night Out!

Wed: Glo Cocktail Bar. All ladies receive two complimentary drinks on arrival and a selection of house beverages at reduced prices all through the night. Free entry. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

ILLUSION Feroshe Friday’s at 1933 with DJ Sam Starks

Fridays: Calling all Illusionists’ and Illusionistas’ to the most fashionable scene in Doha. It’s all about the trendiest dining & mixology, contemporary post-modern shows and the biggest dance hits. So dress like you’re already famous and we will see you every Friday!Illusion’s favourite DJ is back as the Resident DJ and will be playing inside 1933 on Feroshe Fridays! DJ Sam Starks displays his insane musical skills behind the decks and never ceases to impress and keep the crowd from dancing all night. Bring your moves. Bring your attitude. This is one Friday you shouldn’t have to miss!Opening Hours: Dinner Reservations from 8 pm onwards. For more information call 4035 5757 or email: reservations@illusiondoha.com

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Late Night Show

Wed-Sat: The Club at The St. Regis extends the feel-good-factor late into the night. Late night party lighting music from 1990's to now. More live performances of world-class artists hitting the stage. A la carte available. From 7:00 p.m. till late.

For more information call 4446-0112 or email doha.butler@stregis.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Images courtesy of Alessandro Pinna and Michael Le Poer

One of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history comes to Doha for a limited run. QH finds out more about this award-winning musical by famed composer Andrew Lloyd Webber.

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ndrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking 2015 Olivier Award-nominated musical Cats comes to the QNCC Theatre for four days only from February 1-4, 2017.

Backed by the Qatar Tourism Authority and organised by Broadway Entertainment Group and Sports and Entertainment Solutions, Andrew Lloyd Webber's extraordinary record-breaking, smash-hit original musical will be performed as part of the Shop Qatar 2017 festival. Adapted from T. S. Eliot’s

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Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, this wonderful blend of fantasy, drama, and romance is set on the night that the Jellicle Cats meet for the Jellicle Ball in a sparkling fusion of music, danced and verse.

With an amazing musical score that includes the timeless song “Memory”, spectacular set designs, stunning costumes, and breath-taking choreography, Cats is a magical musical like no other, having won two Grammy and seven Tony awards.

This original production is one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, seen by over 73 million people worldwide. Cats has enchanted audiences in over 300 cities around the world.

The UK’s Daily Mail described the show as “purrfect”, giving it a five-star review in just one of a host of accolades from the British press.

Cats received its world premiere at the New London Theatre in 1981 where it played for almost 9,000 performances. The show then returned to the West End in 2014, reuniting the original creative

team: director Trevor Nunn, associate director and choreographer Gillian Lynne, designer John Napier, and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The classic Lloyd Webber score includes “Memory,” which has been recorded by over 150 artists from Barbra Streisand and Johnny Mathis to Liberace.

Liz Koops, CEO of Broadway Entertainment Group, the company presenting the show in Doha, says, “It’s an absolute pleasure to announce that we are bringing the greatest musical in the world to Qatar.

I still have my childhood copy of Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats and I was there in 1981 to see Cats open in London – I think it’s fair to say I’m a huge fan of both the original poems and this wonderful musical. Cats is one of the most successful musicals of all time and I am thrilled for it to come to Doha to wow audiences of all ages.”

Ali Haidary, founder and CEO of Sport and Entertainment Solutions (SES) said, “Following the huge successes of Disney On Ice over the past three years at the QNCC, it’s a great privilege to be expanding

our repertoire and bringing the highest quality shows for the enjoyment of audiences in Doha.” Dubai-based SES is revamping the live entertainment scene in the Middle East by promoting globally-recognised family entertainment brands across the region.

Saif AlKuwari, Director of PR and Communication at Qatar Tourism Authority, said, “Family and urban entertainment is a priority area for tourism in Qatar and has been intricately woven into our plans for the country’s first ever edition of Shop Qatar, which will run from January 7 to February 7, 2017. The

Broadway musical, Cats, comes as a welcome addition to the festival’s colourful live entertainment schedule, offering a rich array of cultural shows and performances by singing sensations and unlimited family-friendly entertainment.” n Dates: February 1-4, 2017 Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre, Gharafat al Rayyan, Doha Bookings: Tickets now on sale from QAR 150 at www.tickets.virginmegastore.me

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ENTERTAINMENT has to do with feeling like my hands are on the wheel. No matter what, I’m taking full responsibility for it. For better or worse, I like that... As a director, the buck stops with you!"

With ITHACA, Meg Ryan makes her directorial debut by means of a touching, coming-of-age tale based on William Saroyan's acclaimed 1943 autobiographical novel, The Human Comedy. Set in rural America during WWII, the film gently explores the world of Homer (Alex Neustaedter), a 14-year-old boy who aspires to be the best bike messenger possible in the close-knit town and help his mother while his older brother Marcus is off to fight in Europe.

Homer's youthful idealism gives way to harsh reality when he eventually discovers that most of the telegrams he is charged with delivering to the townsfolk contain news of sons killed in combat.

Ryan herself co-stars as Homer's mother while Tom Hanks, her one-time screen partner and long-time friend, appears briefly in flashbacks as Homer's recently deceased father. The cast also includes Sam Shepard, Hamish Linklater, and Ryan's son Jack Quaid as Marcus.

Meg Ryan:

“America’s Sweetheart” Makes Her Directorial Debut Words by Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

The famed actress of romantic comedies finds artistic fulfillment in helming and storytelling for films, starting with Ithaca

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OS ANGELES - Meg Ryan was called "America's Sweetheart," an actress whose work in romantic comedies such as When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, and You've Got Mail enshrined her in the public imagination. There was something magically endearing about her radiant smile and search for true love.

But it turned out that Ryan never fully embraced her "It Girl" status and often felt frustrated by her inability

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to shed her good-girl image. Even though her dramatic performances (Proof of Life, In the Cut) showed that she had serious acting chops, audiences longed to see her in lighter, more escapist fare.

As a result, she gradually withdrew from Hollywood and has only appeared in a handful of films over the past 15 years, most of which were largely ignored by audiences. Ryan didn't miss the limelight "one little bit," as it turns out, preferring the comfort of home life where she devoted herself to raising Jack, now 25, her son from her failed marriage to actor Dennis Quaid.

She also used that time to rethink her career and in the process decided that she would rather go behind the camera and start a new career as a filmmaker.

"I've had like a ten-year breather!" Ryan said. "I loved it. It wasn’t a plan or anything like that, but I really discovered myself more as an artist in these last ten years than when I was an actor. And it just

The 55-year-old Meg Ryan, born and raised in Connecticut, divides her time between homes in Los Angeles and a summer retreat along America's east cost on the island of Chappaquiddick, near Martha's Vineyard, Mass. In addition to her son Jack, Ryan is also mother to an adopted 10-year-old girl.

QH: Meg, what drew you to the story behind Ithaca that made you want to make this project your first time out as a director?

MR: I wanted to tell a simple story about complicated things. I saw it as a little poem about how fierce and fragile the world is, and how this small community was in some ways insulated from that. So everything comes down to your own integrity and sense of purpose.

I was moved by the main protagonist, Homer, and his driving desire and impossible dream to keep pain away from the people he loves. For an adult, to see that in a little boy, it's such a heart-opening thing and you can't help but adore someone who wants something that’s impossible. I hooked into Homer's beautiful and innocent way of looking at the world in the face of all the fear that war brings.

QH: While you were one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, were you already thinking about directing one day yourself?

MR: No, not really. It wasn't something I was thinking about in a serious way. But quietly, to yourself, at certain moments on a movie set you start to try to figure out on your own how you would do it, and you go, "I would put the camera here instead of there"... and how you might structure a scene differently.

I'm a photographer and I take a lot of photos, and it was that part of the process of being behind the camera and bringing my own vision to bear that I really looked forward to. Now I have the bug to

direct and I'm like every other director who wants to find the material, find the money, and do all the tap dancing to get their next movie made.

QH: You've brought some interesting people to work on the film, including your former screen partner, Tom Hanks.

MR: It was so much fun to have Tom come in and be part of the film. He did me a huge favour.

He only has a very small part but he is so good that he just adds so much to the story with his presence.

He flew down to the set on his own and even though he only spent one day with us he just made everyone feel so good. I drew on lots of favours from people like Tom and John Mellencamp (her ex-boyfriend from whom she separated in 2014 and who did the score for the film – Ed.) who worked for nothing and contributed so much.

QH: Your son Jack also has a small role. Have you and your former husband and Jack's father Dennis Quaid tried to give him a lot of advice when it comes to acting?

MR: We've given him advice here and there. Jack has seen that it's been an interesting career to have and for Dennis too, although I can’t speak for him, but Jack has seen that it's been fun for us.

QH: Were you inspired by any films in particular when it came to directing Ithaca and the way you wanted to impart a certain kind of atmosphere or mood to the story?

MR: I watched a lot of different movies while I was preparing myself. I liked the kind of social commentary that you find in a film like To Kill a Mockingbird and I loved the atmosphere of films like The Magnificent Ambersons (Orson Welles) and Paper Moon (Peter Bogdanovich).

There was also a beautiful simplicity to the way those stories were told. I really loved the kind of nostalgia and childlike way of looking at the world that you found in To Kill a Mockingbird. Although our film doesn't tell the story through Homer's eyes, we still look at his world in a simpler way than how an adult might see things.

QH: Sam Shepard, who's a legend as both a playwright, screenwriter, and actor, is also part of your film. Did you discuss the story with him at all?

That gave me a lot of confidence and in a way it was like being given the kind of permission to do something that we as women often don't give ourselves. And he was right. As a woman and mother, I should feel that I have the kind of experience to be able to tell this story.

QH: You've enjoyed one of the greatest careers that any actor can imagine. Was it hard to live under the constant glare and the pressure of being America's Sweetheart?

MR: Sam was a big help to me. We were sitting next to each other one day at the beginning of the film and I told him about how I was starting to worry that maybe this wasn't the kind of story that I should be telling, since it's about a boy in the process of becoming a man.

MR: I tried to remove myself from all the media attention during that time. I only started acting as a way of paying my way through university (she studied at New York University) where I was pursuing a degree in journalism. But I did some commercials and I would go around town auditioning for parts, and I wound up winning a part on a soap opera (as Betsy on "As the World Turns" – Ed.) and that's when I decided to concentrate on acting.

But Sam just stopped me right there and told me, "Meg, you're a mother, you're a woman, and women are the makers of men. Women are responsible for making men men. Of course you should be telling this story!"

I didn't expect to have a huge career at all, although once I started getting bigger parts I became more ambitious and really tried to do the best work possible. But in the middle of all that, having my son helped ground me in many ways. I never felt caught

up in everything else that was going on around me. I never read the stuff that was being printed about me.

QH: About 15 years ago you decided that you wanted to spend more time at home rather than working on big films. Was that a difficult transition for you?

MR: No. It felt enriching and very rewarding. I had already been to the moon and I didn't need to do that anymore. I felt a lot of freedom in being able to live my life and discover other things and interests.

I travelled a lot, I wanted to find a different kind of life separate from the Hollywood kind of life.

The only thing I missed was the wonderful little family atmosphere you found on a set. That's still the thing I love the most about this business - it's how you spend those few months getting close to new people and learning so much from each of those experiences.

QH: Do you ever watch your old movies?

MR: No. I'm not very nostalgic. I never watch my movies at all. Usually I see them once and that's it!

That world feels like a million years ago to me. n

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ENTERTAINMENT

Party Happenings Words by Lindsey Steenkamp Photography by Jessie Palanca

Partygoers, it’s time to get excited!

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa and clubbing brand Spirit Night joined forces to welcome The Purple Experience back for the second time. QH heads out to experience the new stir in the city.

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ost would be in the mindset of heading out to West Bay or The Pearl for a night out. We certainly did, till we caught wind of the fresh new event, Purple Experience, right on Salwa Road.

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Nestled on the terrace of the hidden gem The Mix Bar, the night comes alive in a beautifullylit setting with lively beats to kickstart your weekend. The entire venue pops with interactive visuals, special effects, and rays of luminous purple lights to envelope the multi-faceted crowd.

In perfect contrast, DJ Nana’s bright red hair floats in the wind as she warms up the crowd.

Regulars have taken to the dance floor and we certainly felt an instant buzz of uplifting energy.

DJ Nana then turns up the heat and puts a stir in our hips with her bass-filled beats.

We order some bites to snack on, and we are not disappointed. The delectable bites are perfectly sized and bursting with flavor, staying true to the signature “Westin Style”. Our personal favorite was the deep-fried lasagna, cleverly composed

using parmesan-breaded lasagna topped with parmesan cheese and marinara sauce.

Someone at our table decided to order one after tasting it from their friend. Since we are suckers for sushi, another favorite was the Tempura California rolls with the rich and satisfying tempura batter.

The refreshment menu consists of some interesting and creative concoctions from their signature mojito menu. The choices range from Green Tea Mojitos for the ladies to the Dirty Mojitos for something a little edgier. The prices are reasonable and deep pockets aren’t necessary to have a good time.

Fiery Nana hands the crowd over to the spicy Sarah, and the sultry songstress sings to some of

the vision was to create a majestic lounge/ terrace space that transforms into a live venue once a month. our favorite electronic tunes. Those who were sitting are now standing and the dance floor becomes alive. We dance our hearts out and the positive energy is unmistakable. We flit to and from the table for some refreshments and bites, but it’s hard to stay away from the dance floor.

It’s always great when live female vocals bring a deejay’s tracks alive.

The venue has so much potential, and they are taking it one step at a time. They planned the production in such a way that people focus on the event and still have the lounge feel that they would normally come to Westin for. People are coming for the Purple Experience, sitting outdoors to enjoy the nice weather whilst enjoying good music.

There is no restriction on dress code, no membership nor entrance fee, and this makes it the perfect place to meet your friends for a catch-up straight after work, and perfect to let off some steam off after a long work week. We really enjoyed getting acquainted with the loyal regulars of this event and the accommodating Mix Bar staff.

Regulars started asking about the event the first time it was staged and the production company went all-out this season with an accomplished artist lineup. Among their spinners is DJ Ackrid, who’s been in the music industry for more than five years now. He specializes in house, tech house, and deep house, while also playing other genres such as nudisco, electro house, and progressive house.

Spirit Events is a locally-based production company. They pride themselves in injecting vibrant life into venues. Their clubbing brand Spirit Night’s main mission is to mold Qatar into an electronic dance music destination in the region much like Beirut and Dubai. We were told that

DJ Shaggy, on the other hand, has been spinning for over seven years while also working as production director for Spirit Events. Count on him to bring to the turntable electro house, progressive house, and house, as well as techno, dubstep, DnB, tech house, and pop. Now that’s versatility!

The event is pulled together with pure passion and professionalism. This is a relaxed and cheerful experience whilst keeping a clean and sophisticated tone. The Spirit Events team absolutely deliver on their promise. The fusion of house music and the live performance is truly delightful. The night is closed off with some commercial favorites from the one and only DJ Shaggy and we danced the last of the month away in style!

The Purple Experience will be happening at Mix Bar of the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa for the next three to four months. The line-up will continue to grow and change and a new surprise will will be unveiled every time. n THE PURPLE EXPERIENCE Address: The Mix Bar, Lounge & Terrace, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Timings: 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM on selected Thursdays for the following three to four months.

Contact Info: Sajid Mahamood, 6611-5516 Entry: FREE entrance Happy Hour: From 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM on selected mixed beverages from only QR 25.

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE NAME: JUVY FLORES STORE SECTION: MUSIC TIME AT VIRGIN: EIGHT YEARS

Best Part of My Job:“Loyalty and dedication are valued in this company, and so are career development and people interaction. Attention is also given to improvement and self-worth. These are the reasons why I devote myself to my job here.”

NOW: THE BEST OF INDIE ARABIA This is a new compilation of handpicked hits by talented Arabic indie artists. Under the NOW label, the biggest and best-selling compilation series, the album is expected to mark the debut of a new era in the Arabic music industry, where self-made artists take over the music scene through exceptionally meaningful songs. The talents on this 17-track album come from all around the Arab world, among them Asfalt, Nesma Mahgoub and Ramy Essam, UTN1, Qusai, Racha Rizk, and many more.

Retail Price: QR 50

CLUBBERS GUIDE 2016 Ministry of Sound once again presents the highly championed Clubbers Guide.

Every clubber obsessed with finding the best experience wants to know what they’ll be listening to when dancing there - this guide gives them the information they need on two CDs of the most cutting edge dance tracks.

This is the A-list tracklist for 2016, with artists such as Riton feat. Kah-Lo, Frequency & Soul Circuit, KDA feat.

Tinie Tempah and Katy B, and others.

Retail Price: QR 120

KUNG FU PANDA 3 Continuing his "legendary adventures of awesomeness", Po must face two hugely epic, but different threats: one supernatural and the other a little closer to home. Po realizes that he has a lot to learn if he’s going to fulfill the next challenge from his beloved instructor. After reuniting with his long-lost father, he must transition from student to teacher and train a group of fun-loving, clumsy pandas to become martial-arts fighters.

Together, the Kung-Fu brethren unite to take on the evil Kai, a supernatural warrior who becomes stronger with each battle.

Retail Price: BLU-RAY+3D QR 150 / DVD QR 79

I LOVE SUMMER CD Trip down for one hot summer with the Ministry of Sound as it heats things up with ‘I Love Summer 2016’ – a collection of your favourite clubsizzling tracks with a hot price to match. Bring on the heatwave with 23 tracks of all killer, no filler club thumpers from some of the world’s biggest artists.

Retail Price: QR 115

ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE Flightless birds lead a mostly happy existence, except for Red, who just can't get past the daily annoyances of life. His temperament leads him to anger management class, where he meets fellow misfits Chuck and Bomb. Red becomes even more agitated when his feathered brethren welcome green pigs to their island paradise. As the swine begin to get under his skin, Red joins forces with Chuck and Bomb to investigate the real reason behind their mysterious arrival.

Retail Price: BLU-RAY +3D QR 150 / DVD QR 69

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Spotlight On Movies Enjoy winter watching your favorite movies! January brings up comedy, action, and horror flicks sure to heat up your viewing experience.

UNDERWORLD: BLOOD WARS

xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE

Action, Horror Vampire death-dealer Selene (Kate Beckinsale) fights to end the eternal war between the Lycan clan and the Vampire faction that betrayed her.

Stars: Kate Beckinsale, Theo James, Lara Pulver, Charles Dance QH Fun Fact: It was originally thought that this would be Kate Beckinsale's last movie playing the character Selene, but Len Wiseman has confirmed a sixth movie is in development with Beckinsale reprising her character.

Action, Adventure, Thriller Xander Cage is left for dead after an incident, though he secretly returns to action for a new, tough assignment with his handler Augustus Gibbons.

Stars: Nina Dobrev, Vin Diesel, Ruby Rose, Samuel L. Jackson QH Fun Fact: This marks the film debut of football player Neymar Jr.

Action, Crime, Thriller A cop with a connection to the criminal underworld scours a nightclub in search of his kidnapped son.

Stars: Jamie Foxx, Michelle Monaghan, Dermot Mulroney, David Harbour, Gabrielle Union

SLEEPLESS 20

QH Fun Fact: Sleepless is a remake of the 2011 French film Sleepless Night.

AMITYVILLE: THE AWAKENIN Horror, Thriller A single mother moves her three children into a haunted house, unaware of its bloody history.

Stars: Bella Thorne, Cameron Monaghan, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Jennifer Morrison QH Fun Fact: This will be the first theatrically released Amityville film since The Amityville Horror (2005) remake 12 years prior.

Comedy A look at the life of an aging insult comic.

Stars: Robert De Niro, Leslie Mann, Danny DeVito, Cloris Leach QH Fun Fact: Robert De Niro had been trying to make this movie for eight years.

THE COMEDIAN

ENTERTAINMENT

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

QH RECOMMENDS

ILLUSION DWA – Doha With Attitude

Thurs: Doha’s hippest, slickest hip hop night!

It’s a mash up of the best hip hop and R&B from West Hollywood to East Berlin. And the season is kicking off with a bustin’ set from DJ Crown Prince. This Antiguan sound sensation, whose unique mix of urban, Caribbean, soul, moombahton and electro has lit up hip hop and R&B clubs the world over – from the US to Italy, Bermuda to UAE – is now debuting in Qatar. Mixes from his highly popular podcast have been featured on prominent radio stations such as BBC 1XTRA. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5757 or email reservations@illusiondoha.com.

The Secret Garden – Sunset Sessions

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Weekend Vibes

Thurs: Glo Cocktail Bar. Start your weekend the right way - listening to some of the finest DJs spinning the latest in tech music! Free entry. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-5000 or email marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Happy Hour

Sat-Thurs: Coral Terrace. Unwind with 50% off selected beverages and shisha from 12:00 p.m. till 01:00 a.m. Call 4484-4444 for more information.

THE FOUR SEASONS Gentleman’s Night

Tues: Library and Cigar Lounge. A great deal for the gentlemen of Doha! An extended happy hour is available throughout the evening, with a fantastic selection of classic mixed drinks and beverages. For more information call 4494-8600 or email dining. doh@fourseasons.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA House Culture

Thurs: Start the weekend in the new temple of house music in town! Free entry. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email doha.butler@stregis.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA Sisters of Swing Tues: Mix Bar Lounge and Terrace. Dance the night away at Doha’s finest soul, R&B and hip hop night. Ladies receive two complimentary selected mixed drinks. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information email dining.doha@westin.com or call 4492-1555.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CENTRO CAPITAL Happy Hour

Sat-Thurs: C.Mondo. This event is all about enjoying the day in a relaxed and casual place.

Enjoy selected house beverages for only QR 20. From 12:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, contact centro.capitaldoha@rotana.com, or call4455-5000.

DOHA MARRIOTT Pearl Lounge

Daily: With beautiful pearlescent highlights, and elegant and quirky wall art, find yourself immersed in a classic a la mode setting. Mix and mingle under the beautiful red decor, chic bar and hot tunes!

“Pearls don’t lie on the sea shore if you want one you must dive for it.” – Chinese Proverb. Join us for a daily happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and enjoy selected beverages for only QR 27. For more information, call 4429-8444.

Daily: Guests will be able to enjoy the happy hours everyday from 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. The dress code is ‘Beach Chic’. Join in the hottest sunset party to hit Doha, where you can enjoy 50% off food and drinks menus. With DJ Longplayer on the decks until 9:00 p.m.and DJ Disko Diva playing until 2:00 a.m., not to mention the stunning Pearl views, you are in for one amazing rooftop scene! Let’s raise our glasses to the skies every evening! For more information call 4035-5757 or email reservations@illusiondoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Social Sundays With Soul Shake

Sun: Paloma. Rock Star Live karaoke Enjoy your five minutes of fame with the live band and they will sure to bring out the rockstar in you.

This is still a relatively new concept - at its most basic it could be described as karaoke with a live backing band. But it’s so much more than simply singing a song with a rock and pop band. The guys will make you feel like a rock star with their specialist PA, lighting, ridiculous conversation and dubious fashion sense. Best performance will win a voucher for two for Friday’s afternoon Mexican Street Food. Social menu for friends and drinks packages starting from QR 150 for grains and QR 250 regular drinks. Call 4484-4444 for more information.

Mexican Mondays Mon: Paloma. All the more reason to end a work day. Experience a truly authentic Mexican evening with delicious dishes and international brews starting from QR 35. Call 4484-4444 for more information.

Lava Love Saint Tropez

Fri: Lava. Every Friday weekend bring yourself and your friends to an era of luxury with the best international DJ’s from all over the world and along with the best beverage fusions and service in town.

Call 4484-4444 for more information.

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ENTERTAINMENT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY After Work Evenings Daily: Strata. Unwind after a stressful day in the office and enjoy the buy one, get one free promotion on a wide range of selected house beverages. Happy hour runs from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For reservations or further information please call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Buckets And More

Fri-Sat: Hive. Join the crowd for some rugby big games on the big screen from 2:00 p.m till 8:00 p.m. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six brews for the price of four that’s only QR 200! From 2:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m.

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

Disc Cover Nights

Fri: Strata. Disc-cover the blue room as we party the night away with the best views in town. QR 75 inclusive of one drink. Free entrance before 12:00 a.m. for ladies. Mixed groups and couples only. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For reservations or further information please call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Happy Hour At The Lounge Daily: From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m, socialize with the trendiest crowd in the city and sip on your favourite beverages and mixed drinks or take a bite from the refreshing options in the menu and benefit from the special prices on selected items. For more information, contact 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha

Happy Buckets At The Lounge

Daily: Enjoy a selection of your 5 favourite grains in a perfectly chilled bucket between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m every night at The Lounge for only QR 125! For more information, contact 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha

Hoteliers & Airline Flight Crew Night Mondays: All hoteliers and airline flight crew can enjoy a special price on selected food and beverage from the special menu, when presenting their company ID card or Business card. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m.

For more information, contact 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha

LA CIGALE Madison Piano Bar

Mon- Fri: Don’t miss the exceptional Arabic entertainment with the new Lebanese singer Shady El Basha! From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable!

Membership required. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

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Listings Happy Hour:

Sat-Wed: Sky View. Enjoy an after work happy hour and take advantage of 50% off selected premium and regular drinks and appetizers from 6:00 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8204.

Ladies Night

Sun: Madison Piano Bar. Save your Sunday’s gorgeous ladies for the most vibrant nights with our talented DJ! Oh that’s not all; you will get a complimentary welcome drink on the house.Open from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Membership required. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Hotelier And Cabin Crew Night

Fri: Champions Sports Bar. Present your valid hotel or cabin crew ID and enjoy happy hour with entertainment all-night long while you watch your favourite sports over 47 LCD Screens. From 5:00 p.m till 2:00 a.m. From QR30. For more information call 4419-5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

After Brunch Sessions

Fri: Glo Cocktail Bar. Because brunch without a party is just a lunch! Join the fun from 4:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. with guest DJs spinning the latest grooves. Free entry. For more information call 4419-5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Hora Feliz! Happy Hour in El Faro

Daily: Hola amigos! Unwind at 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! From Sunday to Thursday 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 3:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

Noche Feliz!

Happy Hours

Daily: The Den. Bottoms up at the longest happy hour in town, QR 30 per drink for select mixes, grapes and pints all night, every night including weekends. From 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on weekdays and until 2:00 a.m. on weekends. For more information call 4429-5295 or email the.den@shangri-la.com.

Argentinean Happy Hours

Daily: Fuego. Every day from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., travel to Argentina while staying in Doha with this amazing deal.

Selected beverages for only QR 30! For more information call 4429-5295 or email fuego@shangri-la.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS The Playground

Fri: Be playful under the stars at the amazing garden area overlooking the breathtaking views of Arabian Gulf. Dance the night away to the upbeat tunes featuring different bands in Doha every week and DJ Nika with delicious bites and refreshing sips starting from QR 25. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Live performance from 9:00 p.m. onwards. Happy Hour (Buy 1 Get 1 free, not applicable on premium sips) from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. Dress code is casual. Free entrance for ladies, QR 75 for men. Over 21’s only. ID or Passport required. No reservations. First come, first served. Check out the event on www.facebook.com/ThePlaygroundDoha or www.instagram.com/ThePlaygroundDoha.

Four From 4

Sun-Thurs: Elements. Whether it’s a weekday after work or to end your weekends, this is the best location for happy hour in town, featuring signature mixes inspired by the four elements, fire, air, water and earth. Try the great value tapas from the snack menu and sip a drink while the sun sets over the bay. From 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. On top of all this, Wednesday is Ladies Night! Happy hour from 4:00 p.m. onwards. Saturdays happy hour from 4:00 p.m. onwards for all. For more information call 4494-8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Daily: Buenas tardes amigos! Liven up your evenings with El Faro’s Noche Feliz promotion with 30% off beverages between 11:00 p.m. and 1.30 a.m. Add to the excitement of the weekend with Spanish culinary creations prepared at the tapas bar just for you! Prices are a la carte.For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

The Bucket List

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Ladies Night

Thursdays: Dunes proudly presents Arabian Nights every Thursday with the famous DJ Karim! Bring your gang and shake-rattle-and-roll the Arabian way from 9:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. Free entrance for ladies, QR 100 for gentlemen. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1280 or 7021-8094.

Wed: Shanghai Club. Enjoy flowing brut and rose all night long! From 5:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m.

For more information call 4429-5295 or email shanghai.club@shangri-la.com.

Daily: Pool Grill. Of all the hours, this is going to be the happiest! Enjoy an exclusive treat of grains and grapes by the bucket for the entire evening at the Plaza overlooking the beach. From 5:00 p.m. till closing. For more information call 4494-8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

THE GRAND HYATT DOHA Arabian Nights

Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Get pampered for a purpose!

Dunes is calling all the ladies in Doha every Wednesday to enjoy an open bar from 8:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1280 or 7021-8094.

Happy Hours

Daily: Enjoy happy hours at Al Maha and Biscotti, which offer a 50% discount on selected food and beverage items every day from 5:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. For inquiries, please call 4448-1234.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Ladies Night

Tues: Irish Harp. Ladies! Put on your high heels and start off your night with our live band, while enjoying five house beverages on us! QR 100 for men including one standard beverage. Free entrance for ladies. From 8:00 p.m. onwards.

For more information call 4485-3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE RITZ CARLTON DOHA Cigar Bar and Lounge

Daily: Habanos. Retreat into the sophistication of days gone by, when the simplistic beauty of the perfect Martini and a hand-rolled cigar were the signature of quality at its best. A place that boasts a freestanding humidor stocked with premium cigars and a cellar of fine vintages while enduring a relaxed atmosphere with a live Cuban music. From 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Happy hour daily from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information, please call 4484-8000.

Blind Tasting

Daily: Vintage Bar. Correctly guess three ingredients of the mixed drink and get a 50% discount on one other selected drink. Guess all the ingredients and get the second drink from the selected beverages menu with our compliments. Price QR 50 per drink. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0112 or email doha.butler@stregis.com.

Shisha On The Terrace

Daily: Vine. End the day enjoying the sweet smell of shisha. Price QR 135 for regular shisha. QR 160 for special shisha. Saturday to Thursday from 3:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m.

Fridays from 8:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email doha.butler@stregis.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA Mix Bar Lounge & Terrace Daily: MIX is the place to be after work for the best happy hour in downtown. We celebrate happy hour every single night! As the weather is cooler now, grab a seat on their Terrace and enjoy Sips from only QR 25 all night long featuring live entertainment and above all a great Al fresco atmosphere! For more information email dining. doha@westin.com or call 4492-1555.

Hunters, Room & Grill

Daily: Head to Hunters after work for the best happy hour in downtown. Sips from only QR 25 all night long featuring live entertainment and above all a great atmosphere! From 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

For more information email dining.doha@westin. com or call 4492-1555.

Thirsty Tapas Tuesdays

Throwback Thursday 80’s and 90’s Music

Arabic Lounge

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES Arabesque Night

Tues: Thirsty Tapas Tuesdays take center stage at Habanos with an unlimited flow of selected mixed beverages and tapas offerings. From 8:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. QR 150 per person.

For more information, please call 4484-8000.

Sun-Fri: Shisha Lounge and Restaurant. Unwind under the stars at the alfresco Arabic Lounge, tucked by the poolside enclave surrounded with lush greenery where you can sample an array of Middle Eastern and Turkish food specialties matched with signature drinks and Shisha in a variety of flavors.

Sundays to Wednesdays - 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m.

Thursdays to Fridays, 6:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484-8525 or 4484-8000.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Live Artists

Thurs- Fri: Vintage Bar. What better place to unwind and relax after the day’s routine than here? A place where toasts are raised every minute, conversation mingles with laughter and memories are created which will last a lifetime.

With a live performance starting at 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m., what more could you need from a night out? For more information call 4446-0112 or email doha.butler@stregis.com.

Thursdays: Mix Bar Lounge & Terrace. Enjoy 90’s music to celebrate the starting of the weekend at Mix. For more information email dining.doha@ westin.com or call 4492-1555.

Saturdays: Crystal Lounge and Club. Crystal proudly presents Arabesque Night, Layali 1001 Nights with stars Fadi and Maestro Saleem performing all the latest Arabic songs, Live DJ Imran will spin all the latest top hits of RnB, hip hop & commercial tunes.

From 10:00 p.m. onwards. Call 4453-5135 for more information.

Deja Vu

Wed: Crystal. Doha’s favourite ladies night with resident DJ Greg mixing up the latest tunes. Ladies enjoy an open bar from 10:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Call 4453-5135 for more information.

Everyday Crystal Champagne Lounge Daily: Enjoy Warm Up Hour @ Crystal Lounge 50% Discount on Selected Beverages.

Indulge yourself with revitalized food and a perfect selection of the beverages list.

From 8:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Call 4453-5135 for more information.

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

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha 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

Level 23 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

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4405-3333

ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

KATARA OPERA HOUSE Qatar - Germany Year of Culture 2017 Opening Concert

Feb 2: This musical event is to be conducted by David Niemann and will feature Gerhard Oppitz on piano and repertoire of Haamed Hussein Naama (From Doha Secrets Symphony: Fourth Movement), Nasser Nasseb (Al Haneen), Dana Alfardan (The Beginning), Wael Binali (Earth), Ludwig van Beethoven (Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58), and Richard Wagner (Overture to Tannhäuser).

CHAMBER MUSIC AT MIA: From Antonio Vivaldi’s L’Estro Armonico

Jan. 12: This event presents Doha Baroque Ensemble members Ines Wein (violin), Tobias Gette (violin), Cesar Iesanu (violin), Oliver Szüts (violin), Kahraman Seref (viola), Harald Georgi (cello), and Radovan Hetsch (double bass), featuring its Home Inspiration repertoire Concerto in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 8, RV 522 / Concerto in A Major, Op. 3 No. 5, RV 519 and Concerto in D Minor, Op. 3, No. 11, RV 565.

VCU QATAR Muhawwil (Transformer)

Jan 18 to Feb 18: Monira Al Qadiri’s “Muhawwil (Transformer)” is a four-channel video installation based on Islamic figurative murals on electric power stations throughout Kuwait. These murals mark a transformation in religious discourse within Gulf societies: where once only calligraphic depictions of this nature were allowed, today’s pop-culture and the mass-production of images have forced conservative entities to reconsider this tradition and adopt a mutated technique to convey moral advice in the form of wall paintings. This project reconstructs these paintings into animations, so as to highlight the dilemma of representation that exists between the ancient and the modern.

THE COMPANY HOUSE, MSHEIREB MUSEUMS, DOWNTOWN DOHA Strange Wonders MATHAF Fair Skies Exhibition

On-going until Jan 8: Mahmoud Obaidi’s installation Fair Skies engages in a debate about racial profiling in which discriminatory assumptions are made against individuals because of their nationality and religion. On a more abstract level, the artwork also examines the physicality of contemporary art installation nowadays.

Inspired by the artist’s own experiences with airport security, Fair Skies can be read as a social, political, and cultural critique of stereotypical assumptions. Described as “post-9/11 art” by the artist, this artwork is the continuation of a prior project titled How Not To Look Like a Terrorist in the Eyes of an American Airport Authority (2010).

On-going until Jan 26: This second edition of “Strange Wonders” is a collaboration between Msheireb Properties and VCUQatar. The title of the exhibition is based on a direct quotation from one of the original Qatari oil pioneers, Thamir Muftah.

This exhibition is not only inspired by the past’s innovation and the inspiring transformation of Qatar itself, it is also informed by the participating multidisciplinary VCUQatar artists who infuse the past, present and future in their works

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ARTS & CULTURE

Words by Rejan Gaafar Photography by Jessie Palanca

The Museum of Islamic Arts showcases artefacts related to “The Greatest”, world boxing legend Muhammad Ali, whose amazing career generated some of the most unforgettable and historic moments in sports.

H

ow can a person’s little details be so mesmerizing to another’s thoughts? This is what viewers will surely experience upon entering a modest room in the Museum of Islamic Arts filled with small but significant details about boxing legend Muhammad Ali (1942-2016).

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The room, located on the fourth floor where the 3-21 Olympic and Sports museum stands, showcases the temporary exhibit entitled “Muhammad Ali: Tribute to a Legend.”

The exhibition is held in a significant museum that displays diverse Islamic cultural art and pieces, therefore it is no surprise to find an exhibition made to honor Ali, as he was an example of a great Muslim who taught us how to be peaceful and strong through his actions.

The room exhibits tangible memories of the legend, starting from a medium-sized wall paper with all of the championships and achievements Ali, formerly known as Cassius Clay, had earned, through to the last possession he owned.

On the left side of the room are displayed papers and documents telling the story of his life’s journey,

including details about his visit to Qatar in 1971, and his letter of exemption from the United States army for his peaceful religious beliefs.

Moving further into the room, a small theater plays a short movie about Ali’s visit to Qatar, and footage of some of his boxing matches.

The right half of the room is honored with Ali’s signed boxing gloves from his 1971 match against Joe Frazier, the world heavyweight champion from 1970-1973. Next to them are his autographed gloves from his 1964 match with Sonny Liston, heavyweight champion in 1962.

The exhibition, curated by Qatar Museums and the 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports Museum, was opened in July 2016, about a month after Ali’s death in June, and will run until February 25, 2017. According to organizers, it was the first exhibition of its kind to go on display after the boxer’s death. n

Address: Eastern Gallery, 4/F Museum of Islamic Art Website: www.qm.org.qa Call: For museum hours, call +974 4452 5555

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ARTS & CULTURE

such punctuation when we are writing sentences.

Nevertheless, many of us do not understand the real power of this punctuation.

Lena Salha: Writing On Survival, Strength, And Self Words by Rabi-ah M.

Semi-colon (;) is an exciting story of survival. It deals with overcoming life problems by never doubting one’s strength and having the firm belief that anything is possible even in the face of challenges. Rabi’ah M. talks to Qatar-based Lebanese first-time author Lena Salha who presents this interesting book.

L

ena Salha has been reading books since she was very young, and it’s an activity of great interest to her. However, writing is something which became a recent passion of hers in the last five years. Her first book, Semi-colon (;), is a contemporary women’s fiction novel based in Australia.

Now residing in Qatar, she was born in Melbourne, Australia to Lebanese parents. She completed

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her bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Deakin University in Melbourne. After getting married in 2005 and having children, she decided on a varied career path and became interested in education.

Her travel adventures have also truly inspired her: “I moved to Oman with my husband, and after staying there for six years, I moved to Doha where I now live with my two young boys.”

Inspiration-wise, Salha credits her mother who played an important role in influencing her reading abilities to evolve. As she explains: “My mother would always tell me that reading is power, and the more you read the more you will learn. Her words stuck in my mind from an early age. She wanted to become an author but because of her busy life she was unable to fulfill her dream of doing so. This book is very much dedicated to her.”

One might question the title of her book “Semicolon” which is intriguing to the reader. Salha emphasizes the reason for choosing such a title: “This is a powerful title, since most of us tend to use

“A semi-colon is used when an author has ended their sentence but opts not to. It is within this context that we need to see that the author is you and the sentence is your life.”

The protagonist in the story of Semi-colon needs to decide whether to rise above hindrances and fight like a warrior or simply give up on life. Semi-colon symbolizes three things here: “strength, hope, and bravery.” In other words, it is a small reminder of the power of oneself.

Salha believes the best part about being a writer is the fact she feels empowered and independent when she writes. “I get to make up characters and scenes,” she says. On the other hand, the worst part is when one is unable to write the correct words and emotions. “You have a lot of thoughts going through your mind, but it is hard to express them.”

Knowing authors struggle with motivation from time to time, how did Salha manage to keep writing?

She points out with a smile: “My husband has continuously motivated me to keep going and never give up. Many days I felt I could not complete my book but he was always there in the background guiding and cheering me up.”

What makes this book different? Salha believes it’s because her book title is unique. It tweaks people’s curiosity, tempting them to read it. Also, this is an interesting book which talks about life, about God, and about the human experience which the reader can relate to.

As an author, Salha’s message to everyone is, “Never doubt yourself and always believe that anything is possible no matter how long it takes.” n Book availability: Semi-colon (;) by Lena Salha is now available on Amazon and will soon be available in Virgin Megastores in Doha, Qatar.

ARTS & CULTURE

Listings

Museum Guide

For a complete list of timings visit www.qma.org.qa/en/exhibitions

QH RECOMMENDS

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

Museum of Islamic Art & Park The Corniche 4422-4444 infomia@qma.org.qa www.mia.org.qa Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

The Fire Station & Garage Gallery THE MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART (MIA) Muhammad Ali: Tribute to A Legend

Ongoing until Feb 25: An exhibition dedicated posthumously to world boxing legend Muhammad Ali (1942-2016). The temporary exhibition is curated by Qatar Museum’s 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports Museum and will present a unique collection of artefacts from the boxing legend’s career, including photography from Ali’s outdoor exhibition bout at the Doha Stadium in 1971, and memorabilia spanning his journey to the 1960 Rome Olympics, Ali’s world title winning bout against Sonny Liston in 1964, and his final world title winning fight against Leon Spinks in New Orleans in 1978.

MATHAF Dia Al-Azzawi: A Retrospective (From 1963 Until Tomorrow)

Ongoing until Apr 16: Al Riwaq: QM will present a monograph of one of the most renowned modern artists of the Arab world: Dia Al-Azzawi. The exhibition, showcasing over 500 works across fifty years and a range of media, aims to map an itinerary of modernism and profiles the practice of the Iraqi artist.

The exhibition is curated by Catherine David, Deputy Director of Musée National d’Art Moderne at the Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris.

QATAR MUSEUM GALLERY, KATARA, BUILDING 10 Fragments

Ongoing until Jan 30: In this exhibition, Mahmoud Obaidi retraces the “organised chaos” that led to the destruction of Iraq, and presents a response to witnessing the city of Baghdad fall piece by piece. In his work, Obaidi recreates what has been stolen or destroyed to try to piece the city back together again. The exhibition shows how Obaidi is grappling with the destruction of an 8,000-year-old civilisation, which has been laid waste in less than a fraction of that time.

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THE MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART (MIA) Chamber Music at MIA: Mendelssohn Octet for Strings Feb 2: Featuring Felix Mendelssohn: Octet for Strings in E Flat Major, Op. 20; and chamber band including Dmitri Torchinsky (violin), Lorena Manescu (violin), Julia Korodi (violin), Laurentio-Lucian Grigorescu (violin), Giovanni Pasini (viola), Andrea Mereutza (viola), Olivia Farkas (cello), and Sandor Onodi (double bass).

Old Civil Defense Roundabout contact@firestation.org.qa www.firestation.org.qa.

Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

Gallery Al Riwaq

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

QMA Gallery

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

IAID Visual and Studio Arts Classes

Sat to Thu: The Visual and Studio Arts Program is a progressive course for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception, and portraits using various art mediums.For inquiries, call 44320974/ 44411234/ 66710589 or visit www.iaid.qa or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Indian Classical Dance Program

Sat to Thu: The IAID Indian Dance program is a seven-year certificate course affiliated with the Nalanda Dance Research Centre in Mumbai, India.

The course tackles the dance styles Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam. Certificates are awarded to its graduates; "Prarambhika" after four years and "Kovida" after seven years.

e! s onlig.cnom See urha ppenin www.qata

COMMUNITY

Top Picks

VENTURE GULF TRAINING CENTRE Communication to Improve Safety Performance

Jan 7: This lecture will address communication culture, safety communication tools, and communication styles, as well as present sample cases on how safety communication is used to respond to a decrease in injury performance. Reserve seats now. Contact: Maria at 5518 4078, admin@vgetc.com

QATAR NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE The Color Run™ presented by Sahtak Awalan

Jan. 28: Your Health First brings back The Color Run™ to Qatar for the third year in a row! Thousands are expected to join the annual fitness event’s new Tropicolor World Tour. Color Runners are promised a lively island-style experience spiced up with more fun and color as they run, walk, dance, jog or skip through the five-kilometer course with their family and friends whilst getting covered head to toe in colored powder at every kilometer mark. Tickets now available from www.thecolorrun.qa.

THE ENGLISH MODERN SCHOOL DOHA CAMPUS AppsEvents EMS Doha Certification Bootcamp

Jan 13 (8AM), Jan 14 (2PM): Gain the knowledge and skills to effectively use Google Apps in your school or college by becoming a Google Apps for Education Certified Educator. Register now to send teachers, administrators, tech directors, support staff, and anyone interested in finding out more about leveraging Google tools to support student learning. Participants who complete the course may use the Google Apps EDU Certified Educator logo on their blog, website, resume, and business card.

UNITED FOR MANPOWER SOLUTIONS New Job Site Launched

DOHA COLLEGE Open Day - Doha College Sixth Form

Jan 18: Doha invites prospective sixth formers and their parents to join their Open Day, to tour the facilities, meet the Sixth Form teaching team, and discover the range of subjects taught. Pupils can also meet their fellow students and find out more about the sports and social aspects of life as a sixth former at Doha College.

Ongoing: The United MPs has launched its new and improved job site at www.united-mp.com. This website is a free online recruitment and employment platform empowering people worldwide by giving them access to the latest job opportunities in Qatar through advertisements by leading employers in Qatar. The website is a source of opportunities and informative career guidance for job seekers and is a powerful tool for employers and recruiters to hire top professionals.

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COMMUNITY

Mum In Doha Words and images by Lynsey Riach

Lessons from pregnancy teach that courage, resilience, and strength are part of motherhood and life

H

appy 2017 to one and all! Perhaps some of you are feeling slightly more wibbly and wobbly around the midriff after a few weeks of overindulgence, but I’m sure all the merriment was worth it, to see your children happily enjoying such a special and memorable time of year! Sick of the mince pies by now, I bet?

The good thing is, us busy mums are always buzzing about so we have ample opportunity to burn some of those excess calories. But have you taken time to stop and ask yourself what you wish for this new year? What does 2017 hold in store for you as a mum, you as a woman? What trips will you take with your family and what memories will you make?

It’s an easy question for me because our growing family will welcome a new baby boy in just a few short weeks, which is so very exciting! My second pregnancy has been fascinating to me. It allows me to fully reflect and watch my body change all over again, just as it did the first time, and to see how far I have travelled into this journey that is motherhood.

This time I have been far more confident and at ease. The aches and pains are familiar, there is less anxiety, but a lot less time to indulge and be

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precious over pregnancy - no time for massages and pampering this time around!

Perhaps the best part of this pregnancy has been feeling the complete and utter excitement for that day to come as you know exactly how meeting your child for the first time will feel. It’s also reassuring to know, having been through the birth and newborn experience before, that no matter how different it may be this time, I know I can handle it because I have done so before and that is something I feel so strongly about for other mothers to consider.

They say the birth of a baby is also the birth of a woman into a mother. We change, we mature, we may even find a new level of patience. So when it’s time to reflect upon the impending arrival of a new addition to your brood, it’s important to acknowledge not only how far your firstborn has come but also yourself as a parent (not forgetting darling Dad too!).

Something I hadn’t quite expected, though, in my pregnancy plan was an unexpected move just before Christmas and at eight months pregnant that was somewhat interesting, to say the least.

Thankfully the experience taught me that when plans change, we strong mamas can bend with the wind and endure it. Oh, did I mention my entire household came down with the norovirus bug the day before we moved? Well, we did and there was nothing for it but to get on with it!

I’d like to thank local company EMovers who were utterly fantastic and took care of our entire move. A

crew of 10 men whipped all our beloved belongings and furniture out from one house and into another in the space of eight hours like a whimsical whirlwhind! I asked them to hang up mirrors, curtains, and pictures in our new home, all without any bother, so by the time they left at 9:00 PM we had a whole new home ready and waiting for us and now my nesting can officially begin!

So perhaps this year will throw some surprises your way. Whether these are good or bad, know that as a family you can handle anything!

Before our new baby arrives, I’ve been enjoying ordering some creative creations from local ladies who make beautiful baby products all right here in Doha! Here are some of my favourites:

Sherpa Blanket QR 220, Milk House (www.facebook.com/milkhouseclothing) Cosy and cute, made from organic materials, this is a lovely blanket for welcoming your newborn into the world. One side is organic cotton knit material and the other is thick organic Sherpa fabric. Delightful!

Burp Cloth QR 55, Milk House In the beginning you don’t feel you really need burp cloths and then suddenly they are all you need (and you’re guaranteed to run out). Made from eco-friendly organic material with absorbent organic terry cloth, these wash really well and are pretty cute to boot.

Personalised Box Frame QR 120, Wee Button Box (www.facebook.com/theweebuttonbox) A gorgeous gift, is this box-framed piece of family art is personalised specifically for your family!

Until next time, stay happy and healthy and head over heels in love with your little ones! n

SPECIAL PROMOTION

W

ith the winter holidays behind us, it is time to turn our minds to the year ahead.

January is a time of reflection, for looking back at previous achievements as well as mapping out plans for the next twelve months.

On my second year as the principal of Doha College, the school, our students, staff, and the community continue to impress and amaze me. Last year, we realigned our vision and mission, and set out a comprehensive three-year development plan to ensure we delivered on that vision.

We kept our core values of excellence and achievement, respect and integrity, commitment and responsibility, challenge and reward, and fun and enjoyment, as we see these as integral not just to our staff and students but also to our wider community.

A Heart For Learning And Helping Words by Dr Steffen Sommer, Principal of Doha College Image courtesy of Doha College

Students take time from studies to participate in humanitarian and health endeavours that not only benefit individuals but also the wider community, as part of a holistic education that values commitment and compassion.

As we watched tragedies unfold last year, students took it upon themselves to provide as much assistance as possible. As an example, the whole school sat down for a ‘blind lunch’ last year to raise awareness of blindness and support Qatar’s Creating Vision initiative through Orbis in delivering sight-saving eye operations.

As school resumes, our senior students will also continue to raise funds for social issues both close to home and abroad. I believe this humanitarian outlook is being shaped by the awareness and empathy shown by the wider Doha community.

It has not only been in times of trouble that we come together. As recently as last month, hundreds of people participated in the Doha College 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer Community Run. We had more than 700 people line up to race around Aspire Zone. The purpose of the run, which celebrated its sixth year, is to encourage health and fitness. This aligns with Qatar’s vision for a healthy population by 2030 and we are pleased to be assisting in reaching this important goal. Projects such as this all across the country are gaining momentum as Qatar draws closer to milestone events such as the 2022 World Cup. At the family level, many of us will be considering our goals and aspirations for 2017. For senior students across Doha, the countdown will now be on for examinations and applications for further education. For the others, they will be looking forward to fun-filled weeks that will inspire their love of learning.

At Doha College, our calendar includes the Medical Review Schools Conference in February, a High Performance learning conference in March with Professor Deborah Eyre, and the launch of our inaugural Qatar Schools Primary Choir of the Year competition.

I hope that you had an opportunity to rest and relax with family and friends during the winter school holidays. For those returning to schools across the region I wish you the very best for the New Year and hope you achieve your plans. n

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COMMUNITY

Listings

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

QH RECOMMENDS

6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

KATARA CULTURAL VILLAGE The Revival of Qatar's Musical Heritage and Qatari Folk Singing Program

Thursdays until Apr 28: The program offers weekly performances, training programs, art competitions, exhibitions, researches and documentation, lectures and seminars, and international and local cultural relations. From 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. For more information, contact info@katara.net.

DOHA EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTRE DILFEx 2016

Jan 12 to 14: The Doha International Leather and Fur Exhibition (DILFEx) aims to be the leading exhibition in the region catering to the leather and fur industry. It will open its doors for the first edition from January 12 to 14, 2017, bringing together leather and fur buyers, designers, distributors, and retailers for networking opportunities with regional and international partners and buyers.

KATARA CULTURAL VILLAGE Poetry Majlis Workshop

Ongoing until Mar 31: The Poetry Majlis is committed to developing and promoting poetry and literature in Qatar by exploring new ways to develop the pursuit of literary excellence and highlight existing talent. Open to ages 4-12. For more information, email info@katara.net.

Al Gannas Workshop

Ongoing until Mar 31: The Al Gannas Association is participating in the “Our culture is a school” program by organizing activities for students every Monday and Wednesday. These activities include lectures on hunting, hunting tools, and the different kinds of falcons and prey. There are also workshops on how to carry a falcon, set a traditional tent of goat and camel hair, start a fire, and prepare traditional Arabic coffee.

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CITY CENTRE MALL Coffee Afternoon at Tim Horton's City Center

Jan 8: Doing some shopping or busy in the morning? The American Women’s Association Qatar invites members and non-members to join them for afternoon coffee. Get a chance to socialize and meet friends old and new.

CROWN PLAZA HOTEL DOHA Intellect India Education Show (IIES) Doha

Feb 6-7: This two-day event is an exclusive exhibition on Indian education being held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The show is an ideal platform for education providers across all segments to promote their institutions in overseas markets and recruit students for various programs. IIES also offers an opportunity to education institutions to interact face-to face with thousands of aspiring scholars, parents, and working professionals planning to pursue education in India.

e! onlinom See us g.c nin rhappe www.qata

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL WEST BAY Al Dirwandi Restaurant

Daily: Tucked in the heart of West Bay, Al Dirwandi is a distinguished all day dining restaurant serving Lebanese & Mediterranean cuisine that promises to tickle your tastebuds and delight your senses. From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information or reservations, please call 4403-8888.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Bella Italia

Daily: Enjoy the finer things in life with miniature Italian treats artfully prepared and perfectly presented on a tiered stand in the grand setting of Café Murano. Balanced with traditional tea sandwiches and accompanied by your choice of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat. From QR 220 for 2 persons, including coffee and tea. From 2:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY It’s all about Bits & Bites

Tuesdays: Strata. Snacking has never been this fun before! Play and pick from our snack menu, guaranteed to create a snacking culture – all bits and bites for QR 10 per dish! Enjoy your snacks with great drinks, amazing views, and good company.

From 6:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Flying Carpet Theme Nights

Tues-Wed-Thurs: Join us on Tuesdays for Latino Italiano: A wide selection of steaks, burgers, hot dogs, mini pizzas, Italian Antipasti, Fresh Pasta, Paella, live stations for QR 200. On Wednesdays we have Street Food BBQ: Choose from a wide selection of Steaks, Fish & Oriental BBQ accompanied with salad & dessert buffet, carvings, & BBQ display for QR 220. Thursdays are our Seafood Extravaganza: Tropical Seafood Night with an array of fresh seafood for grilling, frying, wok and much more for QR 255. All are inclusive of soft drinks and chilled juices. Available from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Call 4446-5600 or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com for more information.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA New Theme Nights

Daily: Seasons Restaurant. Monday: Asian Night for only QR 100. Tuesday: American Night for only QR 100. Wednesday: Italian Night for only QR 100.

Thursday: Seafood Night for only QR150. Friday Arabic Night for only QR 100. Saturday and Monday: International Buffet for only QR 100.

For more details, contact 4429-1111 or email hotel.doha@moevenpick.com

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FOOD & DINING

Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Photography by Jessie Palanca

The QH team visited the Sheraton Doha’s premier Latin restaurant for a fiesta of culinary delights in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

T

he Sheraton Doha is an impressive five-star hotel where luxury speaks in every single detail of its decoration. Among its treasures is the Latino Steak House, a Latin-American restaurant with the influence of Mexican, Peruvian, Argentinean, and Brazilian cuisine.

We visited on a Monday night, and when the lift opened its doors we were greeted by a very polite staffer named Jelena who assisted us to our table.

We were then approached by Said, the captainin-charge of the evening, who introduced me to Dejan, another member of their team. Both of them graciously answered our questions about the restaurant, its menu, and other interesting offerings.

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As we settled in, throbbing Latino music filled the air, expertly rendered by Adrianny Sardny and Anay Reve’s SouLife band from Cuba. Their rhythms were so infectious that it made us want to stand up and dance to the beat.

Latino Salad came next to our table. It’s a colorful pile of romaine lettuce, arugula, baby spinach, red onions marinated in beetroot juice, red and yellow tomatoes, and smoked red capsicum sauce.

Absolutely divine!

A lovely aroma directed our attention to the starters which soon arrived at our table. The dishes were a combination of South and Central American food prepared by chef de cuisine Luciano Carobini from Argentina, who has been in charge of Latino Steakhouse since 2014.

The salad was followed by an explosion of crunch and creamy flavour delivered by the Guacamole Chips. For this dish, Chef Luciano deep-fries Mexican tortillas for the chips and pairs them with another Latino Steakhouse signature, the chef’s own version of guacamole. This savoury version of a classical recipe blends four or five ripe avocados, onion, tomato, a medium chili, and fresh lime juice, coriander, and ginger.

We started with a warm bread tray with a selection of house-blended butters to whet our appetites.

I have to mention Latino’s signature butter which incorporates honey and Guajillo chili crust; in this simple accompaniment, we already feel the attention to detail.

The first appetizer on our table was the Ceviche Mixto – seafood ceviche – which combines fresh prawns, octopus, scallops, hamour, and tuna with a marinade of lime and lemon juices, jalapeño chili, sea salt, and ginger.

The Empanadas are another must-try. They have three exclusive options available – Beef, made with Argentinean ground beef from Chef Luciano’s mother’s recipe; Chicken, with vegetables and humitas (corn cakes); and Sweet Corn with Gouda cheese. If you’ve visited Argentina before, you will know that these are the best and most authentic empanadas in Qatar. We enjoyed every single meltin-your-mouth bite.

After this fantastic selection of starters, we were ready for our main course, the Churrasco or grilled meat, the backbone of Latin American cuisine. Cards on your table that say “yes” or “no” allow you to keep the meat coming, or stop when you’re full.

LATINO STEAK HOUSE The Churrasco meat is Argentinean premium grassfed beef from cattle living under natural conditions.

This steak meat is served with the traditional Chimichurri sauce (parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar), made in the gaucho’s original way (country style), and Latino sauces including Spicy, Green Pepper, and Mushroom.

For dessert we had Dulce de Leche Cheese Cake with homemade dulce de leche (milk and sugar cooked to a creamy consistency). Chef Luciano also surprised us with a signature collection called Tropical Sweets. In this delectable selection comes the Tapioca Mango with Patagonia berries, Panna Cotta, and Passion Fruit Mousse. It is impossible to resist this sweet finale.

Everything was simply perfect. We must emphasize the high quality of the dishes at Latino Steakhouse and the completeness of the dining experience. The music, ambience, drinks, food, and service were all part of a wonderful totality that will keep us coming back for more. Latino Steakhouse is absolutely the best choice for having fun with friends, having a romantic dinner, or celebrating a birthday or other special occasion. n

• Location: Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Al Corniche Street • For bookings: Call +97444853000 or email: F&Breservations.doha@sheraton.com • Hours of operation: Open Monday to Saturday from 6:00 PM - 11.30 PM (closed on Sundays) • Licensed: yes • Smoking: yes • Daily Happy Hour: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM • Churrasco and Ladies’ Night: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM every Wednesday; QR 199 per person, all you can eat. Ladies drink free all night long.

• Me(a)t the Chef: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM daily; open kitchen table with a menu of three courses, specialties from the chef; menu will be decided by you and the chef on the spot. QR 190 food only / QR 240 with half-liter beverage of your choice.

• Cuban Night: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM every Thursday; enjoy the rhythm of the Cuban Rhumba and savour traditional flavours such as Yuca con Mojo and Ropa Vieja.

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FOOD & DINING

Tasty and

Healthy Words by Jennifer Ortuoste Images courtesy of Sharq Village And Spa

The Ikarian diet features an abundance of fresh ingredients that promote health, wellness, and long life. QH finds a treasure of longevity-boosting cuisine at Al Dana Restaurant.

W

ellness enthusiasts will be familiar with the concept of the Blue Zone, five places around the world where people tend to live longer, healthier lives: these are Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Loma Linda, California; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Ikaria, Greece.

On Ikaria, an island of less than 100 square miles, more than twice as many Ikarians reach the age of 90 compared to Americans. The Ikarian oldsters also tend to enjoy more robust health and need less costly, hightech medical care. Experts ascribe this phenomenon to a diet high in olive oils and fish and seafood, and low in meats, sugar, and processed foods.

At its stunning location at Sharq Village & Spa, Al Dana Restaurant offers its diners the Ikarian diet, one of the healthiest cuisines worldwide.

Introduced by chef de cuisine Evangelos Liakouris upon taking the helm of the Mediterranean casual brasserie early last year, the Blue Zone Ikarian cuisine uses market-fresh ingredients such as greens, fish, and seafood.

are an interesting concoction made with mango marmalade, almond praline, and wakame beans.

Chef Liakouris says his inspiration “stems from Hippocrates’ philosophy: Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food.” He believes in the value of eating well and the potential of certain foods to impart good health. “Each day, we focus on a healthy Ikarian diet in order to create the ultimate taste perfectly cooked with fresh ingredients and the best of Mediterranean flavours with an innovative presentation.”

The Grilled Seafood Platter is another easy pick. It’s an amazing array of Omani lobster, tiger prawn, hammour, salmon, and scallops lightly done to perfection and served with a tangy lemon butter sauce.

The dining experience begins with a seat at a table overlooking the beach. Start your meal with Al Dana’s signature appetizers. The Sea Bass Ceviche is fish delicately marinated in tiger milk, coconut, coriander, chili, and lotus. The tiger milk, or leche de tigre, is the Peruvian term for a citrus-based marinade for ceviche that includes lime juice, onion, and seasonings. Its tangy and fresh flavour is cooled by a helping of Greek Salad, made with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese mousse.

Another dish of greens is called Salad Leaves, a simple but flavourful combination of mesclun salad, pecans, beetroot, and gorgonzola cheese. The Greek Shrimps Saganaki are mingled with tomatoes, basil, and feta cheese, while the Trout Croquettes

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Among the entrees, the Fish and Chips stands out for those who like the familiar. The crispy cod, homemade fries, and tartar sauce dip are a comforting experience while still packed with flavour and distinct freshness.

If you’re craving something more exotic, go for the Tagine – fresh hammour drenched with chermoula sauce, complemented by cherry tomatoes, boutarga couscous, raisins, caramelized onions, and spiced with cinnamon.

Diners may also opt for the the Fish Market option on the menu, and choose from an array of fresh fish, seafood, and vegetables to make their own dishes or have Chef Liakouris and his staff create new ones.

Among the recommended ways of cooking these selections are oven-baked, grilled, steamed, or tempura-style, and served with sauces such as lemon butter sauce, tartar sauce, thermidor, and mandarin saffron. Vegetable sides are also available, among them broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, zucchini, and salad greens.

Not in the mood for seafood or fish? Al Dana has tempting dishes for meat lovers, including

Slow Cooked Lamb Shank accompanied by baby potatoes, the meat so tender it falls off the bone; Glazed Beef Short Ribs with an interesting taste imparted by onion, smoked corn kernels, and green apple; Smoked Chicken Breast with roasted sweet potatoes, baby spinach, and asparagus; and Rib Eye Angus steak, cooked the way you want it and served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes.

No meal is complete without sweets, and to cap off a dinner of fresh but sumptuous dishes, Chef Liakouris offers his Evangelos Deconstructed Black Forest, made with mango cremeux, chocolate ganache, and a delectable cherry sauce. Try his take on the classic Tiramisu, which he partners with hazelnut crumble and coffee-dates ice cream. Do try the heavenly Chocolate Balloon, a combination of fresh berries, cognac, mint, and white chocolate sauce. For those who like it old-school, Al Dana has homemade icecream on hand – just ask for the flavours in stock.

After your unforgettably delicious meal, relax at Al Dana’s vibrant outdoor hotspot extension, C-Lounge.

It’s where guests can stargaze, drink bubbly and grape beverages, enjoy shisha, and savour Chef Liakouris’ special Mediterranean bites as they listen to music and look at the stunning views of Doha Bay. The experience at Al Dana & C-Lounge is made special by incredibly tasty food served in sizable portions, attentive staff who deliver excellent service, and a peaceful ambiance conducive to enjoying a great meal. It’s worth a visit! n

AL DANA RESTAURANT & C-LOUNGE, Location: Sharq Village & Spa, Ras Abu Aboud Street, Al Salata, Doha For bookings: Call +974-4425-6666 or email: dining.sharq@ritzcarlton.com. Table reservations are recommended.

Prices: QR 550 for two people, approx.

Hours of operation: Monday to Saturday, 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM (closed on Sundays)

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FOOD & DINING

My Armenian Culinary Art Words by Chef Zarmig Photography by Jessie Palanca

January sees Mamig restaurant’s Chef Zarmig indulging us with her five set menu that showcases a fusion of the best of Armenian and Russian cuisine.

SHCHI SOUP Ingredients : • Lamb meat with fat • Beetroot cubes • Bay leaves • Chopped onion • Mashed garlic • Sweet potato cubes • Chopped celery and leek • Pine nuts

• Mixed fresh Russian green herbs • Chili paste • Finely chopped red cabbage • Fresh coriander • Vegetable oil • Black pepper • Salt

SMOKED MEAT SALATA Ingredients : • Green leaves (lettuce, arugula or rocca, spinach ) • Grilled eggplant mixed with sour cream • Slices of smoked lamb meat • Broccoli • Fresh asparagus • Green pepper • Red pepper

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• Fresh oregano leaves • Pomegranate seeds • Vinegar • Olive oil • Sea salt

CHICKEN SHASHLIK Ingredients • Chicken breast • Fresh green asparagus • Thin pieces of boiled dough • Chopped green pepper and red pepper • Whole garlic • Shredded carrot • Fine chopped beetroot • Fresh chopped dill • Tomato paste • Russian sour cream • Olive oil • Sea salt • Whole black pepper

SWEET RUSSIAN CHOCOLATE CAKE Ingredients • Egg yolks • Russian wheat flour • Cacao powder • Butter • Melted white and black chocolate • Chopped walnuts • Mashed dried figs • Apple juice • Vanilla powder • Baking powder • Pistachio powder • Powdered sugar • Fresh milk

ZAKUSKI MINI APPETIZERS Ingredients • Mixed selection of dry cheeses • Cream cheese • Boiled beetroot • Russian bread • Mixed fresh green leaves • Potato cubes • Sour cream • Fresh mint • Walnut • Sea salt n

For more information on the restaurants of Chef Zarmig visit www.mamigdoha.com and www.azizadoha.com.

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FOOD & DINING

History Of Food With Chef Zarmig:

Russia

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Words by Chef Zarmig

Enter the hearty and colourful world of Russian cuisine

R

ussian cuisine is known to be one of the most colourful in the world, and Russians have their own ideas about how and what to eat during certain seasons and events.

Mostly they prefer to eat homemade family-style dishes as well as traditional cooked food, rarely buying prepared meals from restaurants or supermarkets.

Russia’s expansion of culture, influence, and interests during the 16th to 18th centuries brought more refinement to their ingredients, dishes, and culinary techniques. But despite the changes brought by foreign chefs, the basics of Russian cuisine have remained intact for centuries.

Russian cuisine preserves characteristic national features such as the abundance of food on the table and the diversity of starters. Baked, boiled, roasted, or fried main courses featuring meat, fish, or duck are presented cut in pieces on a big platter.

Such pieces of meat are taken by hand, as were cold cuts and cheeses, and eaten with bread, the carbohydrates of which provided warmth for the body during the cold season. Thin pancakes, pickled mushrooms, and crispy pickles provide flavor and texture. Each dish of Russian cuisine is a special masterpiece of culinary art.

Russian cuisine widely uses fish, poultry, mushrooms, berries, and honey. Crops of rye, wheat, barley, and millet provide the ingredients for a plethora of breads and pancakes. Black bread is relatively more popular in Russia compared to the rest of the world.

Russians have always been known for their exceptional hospitality. Even in ancient times a table was covered with a white tablecloth and bread and salt placed on top. This meant that the hosts were happy to welcome guests. n

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FOOD & DINING

Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Photography by Jessie Palanca

me and for him, as I am not familiar with Japanese cuisine. Using quality ingredients, we began to learn. After some attempts I made my first sushi!

QH sits down with the celebrity chef of Nobu restaurant for an exclusive chat on the origins of his signature fusion cuisine and what to expect from his eclectic culinary style.

Next we had to prepare a complete Japanese dish so I had more challenges ahead. Between his explanations, he told anecdotes and we bandied jokes back and forth. Forty minutes later, we completed our dish; in that short span of time it felt like we’d become best friends.

NM: During those years working at Matsue Sushi, I had a regular customer who was a Peruvian of Japanese descent. He invited me to open a Japanese restaurant in Peru. In 1973, I moved to Lima, Peru and opened a restaurant with the same name of Matsue, in partnership with my sponsor.

QH: How did you come up with the mix of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine that marks your unique dishes?

NM: When I was in Peru, I was unable to find many of the ingredients I took for granted in Japan. It was this issue that led me to improvise and develop my style of cuisine that incorporated Peruvian ingredients into Japanese dishes.

T

I was also proud of myself for being able to hold my own in class. However, Chef Nobu should be even prouder because I don’t have this sort of skill – me being able to prepare a Japanese dish shows what a great teacher he is. I really enjoyed my time with this culinary world genius.

Located at one of the best hotels in Doha, Nobu stands for high-end cuisine. The architecture of the restaurant’s three-floor space is absolutely breathtaking, a stunning creation which blends Japanese and South American culture.

After the cooking class, I sat down with Chef Nobu for a most pleasant interview.

Inside Nobu restaurant, we saw the team posing for pictures and enjoying a light moment courtesy of jokes made by Chef Nobu. There he was, smiling all the time and talking to everyone while preparing the last details for our cooking class. He put everyone at ease with his humor and engaging manner.

QH: When did you first become interested in cooking?

NM: I was around 18. After graduating from high school, I worked at the restaurant Matsue Sushi in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan for seven years.

Generally, a good artist has the same philosophy to follow - which way is better, which one is more beautiful, always looking for that one detail. Then one day they can admire styles, colors, designs, qualities. I like to see it all.

I was the lucky one chosen to stand right in front of Chef Nobu. This was going to be a big challenge for

QH: Why did you choose Peru for the location of your first restaurant?

QH: I heard you can sing a Spanish song. Can we sing together?

he QH team was recently invited to attend an exclusive cooking class with celebrity Chef Nobu Matsuhisa at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn from one of the world’s masters of cookery.

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Between his jokes and my questions, I discovered a fantastic professional and human being.

QH: I believe that chefs are artists, Are you involved with any other kind of art?

NM: I love to appreciate beauty. I like to see the beauty of a painting, of girls in fashion shows. Each [genre stimulates] a different sense. I learn about music, architecture, and more.

But there is still a lot to do to keep growing.

And growing means the team is also growing, like more chefs and managers. The Nobu family have to keep growing, that’s why we have new projects.

I like to grow everyone together.

The hotel projects are bigger operations with more people but they still have the same hospitality vision [as the restaurants]. Customers stay in the hotel and we like to provide something that gives more happenings (sic) as a gift. [These are] different operations but basically the same.

QH: Will the Arabic culture influence your future creations?

NM: This may happen, [because] everywhere I go, I like to go out for dining. [Last] night I went to have dinner in a restaurant in Doha, and I’ll go more times. Then, as I told you before, later I try to incorporate a fusion in my cuisine.

QH: If you were not a chef, what would you be?

NM: (laughs) I don’t know. I really love what I do.

QH: Do you think you can teach me a bit of Chef Nobu’s cuisine?

NM: Of course. Nobody [gets] it perfect from the beginning, [so] you have to try many times.

Experience makes a good friend, experience makes high skill, and experience makes more beautiful [things]. I like challenges, to never give up and always do my best. Even that I taught you how to make sushi today, this is not the last time [for you].

You have to try it many more times. That way, I can stay with you not only one day, until the day you can make the best sushi.

QH: Okay, next time you visit Doha I’ll make some sushi for you. Are you brave enough to try it?

NM: I’m sure they will be good!

NM: (laughs) First of all, I’d like to tell a story. I have a couple of friends from Chile who have kids, and this is a children’s song that parents sing with their child. It’s called “Arroz con leche” (Rice and Milk).

Kids love this song.

QH: Having a high-end restaurant under your name is a huge responsibility.

How do you keep the high quality and standards of your restaurants all around the world?

QH: Chef Nobu, you sing very well and I confess your Spanish is perfect. That’s very good so we can have loads of Spanish chats.

Being a celebrity chef, I’m sure that you travel all around the globe. How do these trips influence your creativity when preparing new dishes?

NM: It’s all about the team. Without them, all this won’t be possible. We have the best team all around the globe and the Nobu family keeps growing.

NM: I’m based in the United States and I travel for ten months every year. All the places I that I visit and explore the culture of may have an influence on my creations. When I’m visiting other countries, I like to experience their tastes and ingredients and then I try them in my dishes. [It’s usually] not a success in the beginning, but I try it several times and then one day I create a local dish.

QH: Tell me about Nobu hotels. Do they follow the same standards and concept of Nobu restaurants?

QH: See you again soon, Chef Nobu, we look forward to your next visit to Doha. Thank you! n For more information: www.fourseasons.com/doha For Nobu around the world: www.noburestaurants.com For bookings in Doha: Call +4494-8888 / 4494-8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes

NM: We already have restaurants on five continents and and a lot of restaurants inside of hotels. With my partner, Robert De Niro, we decided to go through with the Nobu Hotel project. We have two hotels [opening soon], one’s in London, next spring, and [the other in] Miami in the next few months.

So these are projects on the way.

Hours of operation: • Dinner – À la carte: Daily, 6:30 pm-11:30 pm • Brunch: Friday, 12:30 pm-4:00 pm • Bar and Lounge: Daily, 6:00 pm-1:00 am • Happy Hour: Daily (except Sat), 6:00 pm-8:00 pm • Ladies Night: Monday, 6:00 pm-1:00 am • Sip and Sushi: Saturday, 6:00 pm-1:00 am

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Baker’s Premium Selection Give Doha A Taste Of German Breads Images Courtesy of German Bakery

QH samples this wide variety of loaves from Germany made from wheat, rye, whole-grain, and mixed-flour, all packed with flavour and nutrition.

D

id you know that Germany produces by far the most varieties of breads with over 300 varieties of dark and white breads and over 1,200 varieties of rolls and mini-breads?

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Each region in Germany has its own specialties and variations. In Northern Germany, dark and heavy breads, such as rye breads, are preferred. In the South, lighter breads made of wheat are the favorites.

There are several reasons for this enormous diversity: One is that many types of cereal, such as wheat, spelt and rye, are native to Germany.

Bread in Germany and other German speaking countries is more than just food - it is part of the culture.

German bakers complete a high standard of creative training, which most other countries do not have.

This has produced a culture of craftsmanship that makes German bread a staple food in its own right, not just a simple accompaniment to a meal.

German bread types a world heritage The Germans are planning even bigger things for their bread. In 2011 the Association of German Artisanal Bakers began to collect bread recipes in preparation for its application to UNESCO. The plan is to be admitted to the World Heritage

An Associate of AHB Group

• Breads made from a mixture of wheat flour and other flours (Weizenmischbrote) This category includes breads that are made from wheat and rye flours, where the wheat content is between 50-89 percent. The higher the wheat content of the bread, the milder the taste and the softer the crust.

List. Germany wants to preserve the bread culture that has naturally developed in Germany over the centuries.

Smell it, taste it, love it!

In many countries around the world, German bread has become a brand all of its own. Once you've tasted German bread, you never forget the great taste of it!

German breads are categorized into the following groups: • Breads made from wheat (Weizenbrote) This category includes breads that are made of at least 90 percent wheat flours. Breads in this category are also called "white breads" due to their light color, mild taste, and soft crust. They are loved for breakfast, but also go well with hearty dishes and light salads.

• Breads made from rye (Roggenbrote) This category includes breads that are made of at least 90 percent rye flours. These breads are high in vitamins and nutrients, and have a strong, distinctive taste.

• Breads made from a mixture of rye flour and other flours (Roggenmischbrote) This category includes breads that are made from rye and wheat flours, where the rye content is between 50-89 percent.

• Breads made from whole grains (Vollkornbrote) This category includes those breads made from coarsely to finely ground whole grains.

Pretzels The ideal pretzel, as served in Germany, has a dark brown, crispy, salty crust, and inside a soft dough. It has a plump "body" and thin, crispy (not dry) crossed "arms."

Flour Flour is a fine powder made by grinding various grains. It is most commonly made from wheat, but other grains, such as rye, spelt, and corn, can also be used.

Flour has five major functions in baking: • It provides backbone and structure to baked goods; • It provides a characteristic texture and appearance that is derived from the type of flour used; • It adds flavor, which comes from the different grains used; • It provides nutrition (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins); • It acts as a binding and absorbing agent, since flour absorbs liquid instead of dissolving.

The most commonly used flour in German bread baking is rye, either on its own or combined with another flour, such as wheat or spelt.

Other popular ingredients used in German breads include oats, barley, onions, nuts, sunflower seeds, poppy and sesame seeds, cheese, herbs, and various spices. n Baker’s Selection Premium breads are baked daily. Find them in the Bakery section of all Carrefour stores in Doha.

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FOOD & DINING

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

SA: This restaurant and the hotel itself look exotic enough to take someone special and to make him or her feel like a million dollars. So yes, I would totally go back with someone special. It’s high quality at a very reasonable price point.

QH: Favorite thing about the restaurant?

SA: The grand interiors and the warm hospitality! I felt like a character in the movie “The Great Gatsby” dining here.

QH: Least favorite thing about the restaurant?

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 Mr. Sminto Antony heads to the Agora restaurant in the Movenpick Al Aziziya hotel. Here is the review.

QH: What did you order?

SA: It was a set menu for two with Gavurdagi Salatasi and Lahmacun as appetizers, Beyti Kebap and Dana Kaburga as main courses, and Kunefe and Cikolata as desserts.

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QH: Were the prices reasonable?

SA: I feel that QR 150 per person is very reasonable for a set menu in a grand restaurant at a five-star hotel.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

SA: I went on a weekday and the ambiance was rich, elegant, and quiet as it was not crowded.

QH: Describe the quality of the food.

SA: Very fresh and of high quality, as to be expected from a restaurant of this caliber.

SA: I don’t remember any light music playing in the restaurant. I guess some slow instrumental music might make it classier.

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

SA: Everything was special, from welcoming the diner with a passion fruit drink to the hand shake at the end of the meal with a smile.

QH: Could the overall experience be improved?

If so, how?

SA: With some light instrumental music playing in the background. n Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed in our reader reviews do not reflect in any way those of Qatar Happening Magazine’s staff, directors, management, or Editor-in-Chief. All hotel PR food and beverage departments are aware of the content and receive a copy.

QH: Describe the quality of the service.

SA: Smiling faces all around and very accommodating service.

For more information on the Agora restaurant please call 4445-5555 or visit www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah

FOOD & DINING

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

QH RECOMMENDS

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA Bangkok Noodles & Brew Night

Daily: Take a journey to mythical Bangkok while dining at SabaiThai. The Westin Doha's signature restaurant will be serving traditional offerings of authentic Bangkok noodles and rice. Tickle your taste buds with Thai chicken rice, braised beef with spices rice and fried rice with Chicken & Prawns. Alternatively, the noodles on offer include egg noodles with red roasted Chicken, Fried Flat Noodle with Dark Soya Sauce, and fried udon noodles with egg and vegetables. The Bangkok Noodles & Rice specials priced at QR 99 per person including one brew beverage for the ladies. For more information, call 4492-1555 or visit us at www.seasonaltastesdoha.com/bubbalicious.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES IL Pranzo E’ Servito/ The Lunch is Served LA CIGALE Di Capri

Daily: The Italian Restaurant “Di Capri” welcomes its guests with a sparkling new ambience and an innovative menu stamped by the Italian Chef Luca Dal Col.From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Call 4428-8698 for more information.

Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Flavours Of The Aegean Sea

MÖVENPICK AL AZIZIYAH HOTEL DOHA Seafood Night At Flavours

Thursdays: Enjoy an extravagant evening of tempting seafood at Flavours, featuring the freshest crabs,oysters, prawns and other treasures of the sea. Only QR 180. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m.

For reservations and more information please call 4445-5544, or visit us at www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Shangtastic Brunch

Daily: Discover the flavours of the Aegean Sea in the heart of Doha with our tantalizing four-course set menu perfect for the seafood lovers. For only QR 200, go on a seafood adventure specially prepared by our awardwinning Greek Chef. Pair your meals with unlimited bubbly and house beverages by adding QR 125. Call 4484-4919 for reservations.

January 27: We take Friday Brunch to a whole new level! Level one comes to life as Yabby and Fuego join forces offering a new take on brunch. Feast on oysters, lobsters, sushi and fresh fish. Select from the finest butchers cut, take your pick from the traditional pie and roast station, head to the teppanyaki grill or make your own mixed beverage all while enjoying lively entertainment with our Argentine duo and DJ Yas. For more information email doha.dining@shangri-la.com or call 4429-5295.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Prime

THE TORCH DOHA Three Sixty Theme Nights

Daily: For guests passionate about steak, award-winning Prime is a bold, quality dining destination promising the finest selection of cuts consistently cooked and seasoned to perfection.Prime’s relaxed and comfortable setting combined with its exquisite cuisine will surely make for a memorable dining experience. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

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

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Tues, Thurs & Sat: Every Tuesday and Thursday we have the finest prime cuts & fine steaks including: Chateaubriand Beef Roast Sharing Platter, T-Bone, Black Angus Short Ribs, Wagyu Filet and Angus Black. On Saturday we offer Italian Homemade; Freshly made naturally colored pasta choosing from all-time favorite, Tagliatelle, Spaghetti, Ravioli, Pappardelle, finished with your selection of sauces.

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

Fridays: Enjoy A La Carte/ 3 courses Set Lunch & Open Beverage Packages, with unlimited selected sips at QR 190 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CENTRO CAPITAL Seafood Night

Thursdays: Enjoy the fresh taste of the sea every Thursday night at c.taste. Join us from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for a seafood buffet consisting of lobsters, shrimps, mussels, sushi, a live cooking station and not forgetting delicious desserts. The ideal night out for seafood lovers. All for just QR 185 per person. For reservations please call 4455-5000 or email centro.capitaldoha@rotana.com.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Our delightful brunch at c.taste includes a cold section with stations such as a fresh salad station, antipasti and tartare station and not forgetting a gorgeous sushi station. The hot section includes a tapas corner followed by multiple international and oriental hot dishes. Finally, round off a perfect meal with our delicious dessert corner.

From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. From QR 185 incl soft drinks, QR 249 incl unlimited house beverages.

For reservations please call 4455-5000 or email centro.capitaldoha@rotana.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT Noodling Night

Saturdays: Asia Live. We’ve got oodles of noodles and dumplings for days at our all new noodling night in Asia Live! Indulge in an evening of all you can eat noodles and dumplings specially crafted by our Chinese Chef Xudong Zheng. Enjoy unlimited dumplings & noodles for QR 100 per person OR add QR 60 per person for an unlimited draft beverage package! From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

JW’s Steakhouse

Saturdays: We are excited to introduce the first ever JW's Steakhouse Brunch! Join us every Saturday in our signature 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!

From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Regular Brunch QR 250. Bubbly Brunch -QR 390. For reservations and more information call 4429-8499.

The View-B-Q

Sunday & Wednesday: Make the most of the amazing weather and join us every Sunday and Wednesday at The View Extension! Enjoy all you can eat mouth-watering BBQ snacks inclusive of one drink for only QR 66! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For reservations and more information call 4429-8499.

ILLUSION Feroshe Friday’s At 1933 With DJ Sam Starks

Friday: Calling all Illusionists’ and Illusionistas’ to the most fashionable scene in Doha. It’s all about the trendiest dining & mixology, contemporary post-modern shows and the biggest dance hits.

So dress like you’re already famous and we will see you every Friday! Illusion’s favourite DJ is back as the Resident DJ and will be playing inside 1933 on Feroshe Fridays! DJ Sam Starks displays his insane musical skills behind the decks and never ceases to impress and keeps the crowd dancing all night. Bring your moves. Bring your attitude.

This is one Friday you don’t want to miss!

Dinner Reservations from 8:00 p.m. onwards.

For more information, call 5070-0362 or email reservations@illusiondoha.com

The Secret Garden

Daily: The Secret Garden is poised to be the most beautiful garden party of the season, this aweinspiring rooftop spread across one large terrace, is the perfect start to the weekend with casual, fresh, delicious fusion cuisine and chilled sounds. The Secret Garden experience features a mix of some of the world’s greatest sharing plates from a variety of different cuisines – Asian, Spanish, American and French, and promised to curb your hunger. With eclectic music and delicious delights, The Secret Garden is the ultimate place to relax and unwind as you watch the sun go down and the stars come alive under the Doha skies. From 4:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. with Sunset Sessions between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 5070-0362 or email reservations@illusiondoha.com

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA We Love Saturday Brunch

Sat: Join us at Coral Restaurant for an exceptional brunch featuring the great taste of Tex-Mex, Greek and Belgian cuisines 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 Kid’s Cooking Class for free and QR 250 soft beverages and QR 275 including unlimited house beverages.

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

Belgian Roast Weekend

Fri & Sat: Every Friday and Saturday, enjoy a different brunch at Belgian Café. Try our newest menu with succulent roasts to satisfy all meat lovers and enjoy our Happy Hour on draught beverages and house grapes from 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Hops packages for QR 135 with unlimited draught hops. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Strata

Daily: Strata is a trendy and contemporary restaurant and lounge located on the 55th and 56th floors of the hotel. It boasts impressive views of West Bay and the city and is one of the highest lounge in Qatar. Stunning views are just one benefit as Strata offers an evolving international menu selection that can be enjoyed until late to the sound of our resident DJ's. Whether it's an after work-drink you're looking for, a night out with friends or dinner with your partner, Strata is the perfect venue for any mood. Now with a daily happy hour from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Hwang

Daily: In the casual yet refined setting of our Pan Asian restaurant Hwang, you will enjoy a truly eclectic Asian dining experience. We offer the finest cuisine from eight different countries across the region. Open daily for lunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Dinner from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Yum Cha Brunch on Friday from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Discover The Tastes Of Aroma

Fridays: Take your tastebuds on a culinary adventure in Aroma, where every Friday a new cuisine comes into focus. With a 5 course menu carefully prepared, focusing on the harmony between flavours and ingredients to bring you the most unique tastes. From QR 110 per child, between 6-12 years. QR 220 per person, food only. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, contact 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski. com or www.kempinski.com/doha

Express Business Lunch By Aroma Saturday to Thursday: Experience the new express business lunch menu, brought to you by the talented chef of Aroma. Offering a creative 2 or 3-course menu by using fresh and locally farmed ingredients, all served within 45 mins.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 75 or 95 per person. For more information, contact 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha

Ladies High Tea

Daily: Ladies, step into Gourmet House and enjoy the contemporary High Tea specially prepared for a relaxed afternoon with friends! From QR 185 for 2 persons including coffee or tea. From 12:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha

LA CIGALE Le Cigalon

Daily: International cuisine with Lebanese specialties. Daily extravagant buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. A La Carte option is available.

Buffet Breakfast at QR 130 and buffet lunch or dinner with live cooking station at QR 220 per person, inclusive of American coffee or tea.

From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. Call 4428-8698 for more information.

YEN Sushi Bar

Daily: Best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt; color coded plated formula along with an appetising A La Carte menu.

From11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. Call 4428-8698 for more information.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Freak Shakes 2.0

Daily: Our Freak Shakes just got Freakier!

Pass by Quick Bites and take on the ultimate challenge to try the Freakiest Shakes in town, for a sugar loaded cheat day. From QR 45.From 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more details contact 4419-5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com

Asian Night

Mondays: Savour the diversity of South East Asian cuisines every Monday. From QR 175 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4419-5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com

European Night

Tuesdays: Take your taste buds on a culinary journey across the different European cuisines.

From QR175. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Sweet Treat Extravaganza

Daily: Bohemia. Drink it, eat it, share it!

Your dreams have just come true with an abundance of sweet and tasty ingredients artfully placed in a jar for you and your friends to enjoy, because no good story started with a salad! Prices are a la carte.

From 2:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

Journey through India

Daily: Sawa. Whether you like it spicy or mild, buttery or creamy; our talented authentic chefs have prepared an Indian menu packed with spices. Start with the set 3 course menu or add a few dishes and share it with those around you starting at QR 100 per person. QR 100 for 3 course menu per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

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FOOD & DINING Weekend Brunch Collection

Fridays: Uno, dos, tres! Start the weekend with an authentic Andalusian à la carte brunch in El Faro.

Focusing on the region's specialities as well as offering signature dishes every Friday with an assortment of tapas, unlimited paella and delicious desserts. Continue the fiesta with the Hora Feliz! 1+1 offer, starting at 3:30 p.m. From QR 240 per person, including soft beverages.

QR 380 per person, including vino, Spanish beverages, draft and signature mixed drinks. From12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information, contact 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

MÖVENPICK AL AZIZIYAH HOTEL DOHA Sushi & Steak At Blue

Saturdays: Blue. Treat yourself to an experience like never before with a succulent combination of Sushi & Steak. Be sure to get the best of both worlds, only at Blue! From 12:30 noon till 12:00 a.m.

From only QR 215 per person. For reservations and more information please call 4445-5535, or visit us at www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah.

Barbecue Night At Flavours

Fridays: Flavours restaurant hosts its weekly barbecue night for the whole family. Enjoy a wide selection of steak, chicken, lamb or beef, served piping hot from the grill for a relaxing evening. From QR 180 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For reservations and more information please call 4445-5535, or visit us at www.movenpick.com/doha-al-aziziyah.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Jazz Up Bar

Fri-Sat: Enjoy yourselves at Jazz up Bar with our Happy hour between 5:00 p.m.and 8:00 p.m. with a 30% discount. Try one of the many delicious snacks from juicy chicken quesadilla to nachos and ribs. We also now have an amazing pizza promotion, fresh from the pizza oven! Choose any of our delicious pizzas for only QR 75 including one bottle of brew. Game Night: Buy 4 brews for QR 100 only. Jazz Up requires no entrance fee and no minimum spend. For more details, contact 4429-1111 or email hotel.doha@moevenpick.com

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Seasons. Partake in a Family Brunch for only QR 175. Add QR 30 for soft beverages or QR75 for bubbles & grape. Try our new pizza menu with different types of pizza at Seasons restaurant from 12noon till 10:30 p.m. Business lunch full buffet for only QR 85 including one bottle of water from 12 noon until 3:30 p.m. For more details, contact 4429-1111 or email hotel.doha@moevenpick.com

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Dim Sum brunch at Shanghai Club

Saturdays: Weekends in Qatar just reached new heights. Gather family and friends for a brunch with a Chinese twist. For QR 238 per person, choose unlimited servings of signature and traditional dim sum, you’ll also enjoy soup and noodles and more.

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

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Listings Dinner Buffet at Sridan

Daily: Grab your pals and head over to Sridan for a dinner with over 129 dishes for just QAR 139 per person any day of the week from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information or reservations email shanghai.club@shangri-la.com or call 4429-5295.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Me(a)t the Chef

Daily: Latino Steakhouse. Meet the Chef on his kitchen table with a menu of 3 courses specialties. Let the Chef take you on your very own culinary journey making recommendations on the way. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.

(Closed on Sundays). From QR 190 for food only, and QR 240 with a mixed drink of your choosing. For reservations call 4485-3000, or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Alfresco Breakfast

Daily: Head to the Pool Grill for our breakfast concept. Served on a rustic cast iron plates, you can choose from western to Middle Eastern breakfast items to healthy to gluten free or even indulge in a delicious Dutch pancake.

Enjoy this one-of-a-kind breakfast with the alluring Arabian Gulf as a backdrop. Prices from QR 70. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m.

For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

THE GRAND HYATT DOHA Isaan’s Dusk Dining Daily: Enjoy a 30% discount on all a la carte menu items including special beverages. Every day, from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. you are invited to enjoy an authentic Thai dining experience.For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1250 or 7021-8097.

Arabic Family Brunch At Al Hubara

Ba-Mee Nights

THE BIG FAT BRUNCH AT IRISH HARP

Ora Dell’ Aperitivo

THE FOUR SEASONS

THE RITZ CARLTON DOHA La Mer Bistro

Saturdays: The perfect time for a family gathering with delicious dishes complemented by a truly fulfilling culinary experience. QR 240 per person including soft beverages. 50% discount for kids aged 6-12 years and kids below 6 dine for free.

From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For reservations call 4485-3000, or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Saturdays: Discover our new brunch at Irish Harp offering a spread of delicacies from scrumptious burgers and short ribs to beef wellington and more! QR 199 per person including food only. QR 220 per person including two standard beverages. QR 345 per person including unlimited standard beverages.

From 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For reservations call 4485-3000, or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Start the weekend on a leisurely note with the award-winning Four Seasons Hotel Doha's Friday Brunch, extended buffet stations in Elements, Il Teatro and Arabica. Savour a wide array of offerings – from fresh seafood to sushi, Asian food favourites.

Arabic and Western selection, 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. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:30 p.m.

Regular brunch at QR 340. Sparkling brunch at QR 440. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Elements Lunch Buffet

Sat-Thurs: Elements. The go-to restaurant for your weekday buffet lunch or business lunch! Experience a delicious range of four different cuisines, Asian, Seafood, Arabic and Indian. You will certainly satisfy your cravings. Buffet lunch from QR 175 per person including local water.From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m.

For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Saturdays: As pasta mania takes a back seat to the noodle craze, noodle fever has hit Doha with Isaan’s “Ba-Mee nights” every Saturday offering all you can eat noodles from a selection of noodle based appetizers, soups, curries, and stir-fried dishes for QR 100 only per person.For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1250 or 7021-8097.

Sun-Wed: November brings the famous Italian aperitivo tradition to Rocca, Sunday through Wednesday, between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Enjoy discounted signature and classic mixed beverages selections served with cicchetti in the authentic Italian culinary tradition. Complimentary cicchetti is offered with your first drink. Buon Appetito! Available daily except Fridays and Saturdays. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1250 or 7021-8097.

Mon-Sat: La Mer Bistro is the quintessential traditional French Bistro: A comfortable, dynamic and casual yet elegant social place surrounded by the panoramic view of the Doha Skyline. A perfect venue to gather and dine where everything is designed for you to try a large number of authentic French flavors at an affordable price. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m, Weekdays. From 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. on weekends. Closed on Sundays. For more information, please call 4484-8000.

Diner Entre Amis

Ongoing: Every second Wednesday of the month, enjoy a convivial dinner sharing concept where all the food and beverages are served family style to share. The food theme will change every month and represent a typical Bistro meal like Mussel Night with Fries, Entrecote Night with Walnut salad, Cheese Night – all cheese based traditional dishes, Quenelle Night, etc. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Special set menus and selected drinks available. For more information, please call 4484-8000.

Aperitif A La Francaise

Thurs-Fri: La Mer Bistro. Celebrate the weekend in a French style Bistro by indulging in authentic French aperitifs while nibbling sumptuous canapés.

From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Unlimited canapés for two hours and special prices on French aperitifs and selected drinks. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484-8000.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Early Supper

Mon to Sat: Come dine with us at Gordon Ramsay’s The Mediterranean and get a three course set menu and a glass of house grapes for only QR 195. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Call 4446-0105 or or e-mail doha.butler@stregis.com for more information.

Burger Night

Mondays: Opal. Genuinely the best beef burger in Doha! Served with crispy fries and Opal’s homemade tomato sauce and drinks. Chilli Dog option available within Burger and brew menu. From QR 100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Call 4446-0105 or or e-mail doha.butler@stregis.com for more information.

THE TORCH DOHA Picnic in the Park

Daily: Enjoy a day in the park with family and friends. Daily from 8am until 8pm, starting from QR 80 per person. Includes a selection of sandwiches, sweets, fruit salad, choice of fresh juice and mineral water served in a picnic box.

Additional menu options and special arrangements available upon request. Call 4446-5600 or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com for more information.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES Street Food Brunch

Fridays: One of the iconic brunches Doha offers.

Enjoy culinary delights from the streets of Southeast Asian with live Cooking Stations and Signature sips accompanied by the melodic sounds of Doha Jazz Band. Book for 5 or more and enjoy a special rate at QR 350 per person. From QR 410 (including special beverages) and QR 295 (including selected regular beverages) per person.

From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com for more information.

Sushi Night

Saturdays: Come and spend an evening with us at Spice Market as we have carefully selected and prepared Japanese inspired sashimi, nigiri and maki. Limited offer, reservations required.From QR 250 per person.

From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com for more information.

Past Midnight

Wed–Fri: Looking to grab a late night meal?

Spice Market is open for all the night owls craving authentic Southeast Asian cuisine while dancing the night away to performances by various DJ’s. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

Take advantage of a special drinks menu from 12:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com for more information.

Lunch at Heights

Sun-Thurs: Three Sixty. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. enjoy a choice of three course set menu with selected cold beverage at QR 95 or QR 150 per person. Great food and a unique setting overlooking Doha’s Skyline at a unique revolving restaurant on the 47th floor. For more information call 4446-5600 or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA Bubbalicious Brunch

Daily: Bubbalicious Brunch is back! From QR 320 including soft beverages, our Supercilious Brunch for QR 340 including selected grapes and grains, QR 395 including our truly scrumptious Bubbalicious package, or QR 595 including our Royalicious package. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 4492-1555 or visit us at www.seasonaltastesdoha.com/bubbalicious.

Tapas Tuesday

Tuesdays: Seasonal Tastes. Extravagant Tuesday night at Seasonal Tapas night. Paella, Gazpacho, Chilly Prawns, Patadas Bravas, Spanish Omelette, Calamari cooked to perfection in front of you by our expert chefs. Freshly baked bakery specialities, cheese variety and Spanish cold cuts to match your favourite Spanish wine! QR 160 for buffet & soft drinks. QR 259 for buffet & selected special beverages. From 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 4492-1555 or visit us at www.seasonaltastesdoha.com/bubbalicious.

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Prime Intercontinental Doha The City

CAFÉ #999 The Doha Fire Station

INTERNATIONAL

SPANISH & TEX-MEX 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

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 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

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

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

Hakkasan The St. Regis Doha 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 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

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

Antica Pesa Marsa Malaz Kempinski

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 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 4402-3333 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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SPORTS

Top Picks

LA CIGALE Zumba Kids

Ongoing: Perfect for Ozone Gym & Spa younger Zumba fans! Your kids 6-12 years old can now enjoy their healthy lifestyle with Ozone Gym & Spa and get the chance to be active and jam out to their favorite music for 60 minutes. Call 4428-8101 for more information.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Body Combat™

Sun/Wed/Sat: Bodycombat™ is a high-energy martial arts-inspired workout that is totally non-contact.

Punch and kick your way to fitness and burn up to 740 calories* in a class. No experience needed. Learn moves from Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing, Muay Thai, Capoeira and Kung Fu. Release stress, have a blast and feel like a champ. Bring your best fighter attitude and leave inhibitions at the door. *Energy expended during the Les Mills Bodycombat™. Sunday from 7:00 p.m. till 7:45 p.m. Wednesday 5:00 p.m till 5:45 p.m. Saturday 6:00 p.m till 6:45 p.m. For more information, call 4015-8888.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Ladies Membership

Ongoing: 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.

Call 4485-4600, for more information or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com

THE RITZ CARLTON Fitness Classes

Ongoing: Sign up to our high-performance and energizing group classes that create an enjoyable workout experience, from choices of an international range of our Les Mills Fitness Class, Yoga, Pilates and Zumba. From QR 50 per person. Advance booking is required. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484-8000.

THE GRAND HYATT DOHA Have your Own Trainer!

Ongoing: Jaula Club. Get three personal training introductory sessions for QR 299! Identify what you need to achieve with your coach, whether you want to lose weight, gain muscle or prepare for a marathon. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1056 or 7069-5188.

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SPORTS

Words by Wajeeha Malik Images courtesy of the Qatar Tennis Federation Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

Game, set, match! As tennis stars get ready to play in the Qatar ExxonMobil Open next year, find out who’s playing, where to buy tickets, and what to watch out for.

Series; from 1998 to 2008, the ATP International Series; and from 2009 to present, the ATP World Tour 250 Series.

the previous editions in all ramifications,” Tournament Director Karim Alami said in a statement on the website.

Preparations are now underway to host crowds coming to see their favorite tennis stars play for the falcon-shaped trophy and over one million dollars of prize money.

According to the Qatar Tennis Federation, the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, as the first tournament of the season, gives players the opportunity to prepare for events like the Australian Open. (The Australian Open is chronologically the first of four Grand Slam tennis tourneys of the year, the other three being the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.)

T

The Qatar ExxonMobil Open is where many of the world’s top players open their season campaigns.

The 2016 tournament was won by 29-year old Serbian maestro Novak Djokovic. He will be defending the title from competitors such as Scotsman Andy Murray, who took the world title from Djokovic earlier this year.

The tournament, which will be held from January 2 to 7, promises to be an exciting one, featuring some of the world’s best tennis players including World No. 1 Andy Murray and World No. 2 Novak Djokovic.

Other players scheduled to compete include 2012 champion Jo-Wilfried Tsonga from France and Czech Republic’s Tomas Berdych, as well as Jeremy Chardy, Ivo Karlovic, Fernando Verdasco, and David Goffin among others.

The six-day event marks the 25th anniversary of the Qatar Open, held consistently each year since 1993.

From 1993 to 1997, the tournament was part of the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) World

“We are happy to welcome the world once again to Doha. Qatar is the hub of global sport and we are passionate about tennis. I’ve no doubt that the 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open will surpass

he 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open brings the world’s biggest names in professional men’s tennis to Doha next year to compete against each other at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex.

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The qualifying rounds are being held from December 31, 2016 to January 1, 2017 with 32 players in the main draw and 16 teams in the Doubles. n Ticket prices: from QR 25 to QR 350 Bookings: Buy tickets at the 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open website (https://dohatennis. msl.es/) or inquire at mall pop-up booths.

Notices: Children under two years of age may come to the venue without a ticket, but must be accompanied by a ticketed adult; children over two years of age require a ticket to enter.

Children under five years of age are not allowed into the stands of any court.

63

SPORTS

20th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters

Tourney Slated This Month As told to Jennifer Ortuoste Images courtesy of Fasttrack Agency

For the tenth time, Commercial Bank reloads the iconic competition that pits top global golfers against each other in a bid to win the coveted Mother of Pearl trophy.

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C

ommercial Bank is once more backing the annual Qatar Masters golf tournament to be held January 26 to 29, 2017 at the Doha Golf Club.

The Bank has supported the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters as title sponsor of the tournament since 2006.

Since 1998 the prestigious Qatar Masters golf tournament has been hosted by Doha Golf Club at

the beginning of each year as part of The European Tour. The annual tournament celebrates its 20th edition this year.

A stellar field of the world's top golfers will compete on Doha Golf Club's unique and challenging desert-type Championship Course.

Designed by Peter Harradine and unveiled in 1997, the 7,374-yard Championship Course has proven to be one of the longest par 72 courses on The Tour.

It features eight strategically positioned lakes, 65

giant cacti, numerous imposing limestone rock formations, and an abundance of lush and lengthy green fairways, presenting a startling contrast to the desert that lies beyond.

The 2017 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters is generously supported by the following partners: Commercial Bank, Fifty One East, Alfardan Automobiles, Diners Club International, Qatar Duty Free, Qatar Insurance Company, Rolex, St. Regis Hotel Doha, Byrne, Gulf Times, Al Raya Newspaper, De Boer, Al Maktab Al Qatari Al Hollandi, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha, InterContinental Hotel Doha, Titleist, ProSports International, and Rayyan Water.

Intercontinental Hotel Doha, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha, and Fnac Lagoona Mall, and online at q-tickets.com, 800tickets.com, and iloveqatar.net.

Tickets start at QR 150. Entry is free for children under 14 years of age.

Tickets for the event are available for purchase at Virgin Megastores (online and in-store in Doha), Doha Golf Club, St Regis Hotel Doha,

For those looking for an extra-special experience with the best views of the course and an exclusive culinary experience, hospitality packages are

available for purchase through the tournament’s official website at qatar-masters.com/hospitality.

Official Website: qatar-masters.com Hospitality: qatar-masters.com/hospitality Facebook: facebook.com/ CommercialBankQatarMasters Twitter: @CBQatarMasters Instagram: @CBQatarMasters Official hashtag: #MyCBQatarMasters

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SPORTS 10. Unique golf course: The Doha Golf Club was one of the first grass golf courses to be built in the Middle East. It enjoys all the merits of golf with excellent fairways, true greens, and challenging holes.

11. Fairway street styles: This is Doha’s biggest social event of the year, so come down and witness the Doha Golf Club transform into a fashion runway as everyone will be dressed to the nines. People will be coming out to the 20th edition of Commercial Bank Qatar Masters in carefully chosen outfits to be featured in the following week’s society pages.

You’d better start thinking of an outfit - we know you want to!

12. Watching the stars practice at the driving range: You may begin to understand how Branden Grace has conquered the very tricky and windy Doha Golf Club course to lift the Mother of Pearl trophy two years in a row.

13. The Village Concert Series: This continues each day following close of play, with a diverse range of regional and international acts packing the venue and making for one of the most popular social events on Doha’s calendar.

14. Trick Shot Boys: They will entertain the masses daily with their unique brand of golfing comedy.

15. Hospitality: Guests can enjoy a memorable alfresco meal or retreat to climate-controlled luxury hospitality to enjoy exquisite five-star dining and access to an open bar followed by high tea, as well as live coverage on multiple television monitors.

20 REASONS TO LOVE THE COMMERCIAL BANK QATAR MASTERS To celebrate the 20th edition of the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, we take a look at our 20 favourite things about this prestigious annual sporting event at the Doha Golf Club.

1. Getting outdoors: When you're chained to a desk sitting at a computer most of the day, getting a full weekend out and about under the glorious sun and breathing in that fresh air and freshly cut grass is just therapeutic, isn't it?

2. The nerves: This is easily one of the things we love most about golf in general. It's an excited anticipation. Watching your favourite golfers tee off at sunrise in Doha’s perfect January weather is incomparable to anything else.

3. Golfing action: Your favourite golfer pulling off a spectacular shot. Isn't it the best when you witness history made live in action?

4. Photo opportunities galore: Nothing beats the chance for the ultimate sporting #Selfie at Qatar’s largest annual sporting event.

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5. Entertainment for all the family: Much more than four days of international golf action, the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters brings a range of family fun to Doha as one of the biggest social events on Qatar’s calendar.

6. You don’t need a babysitter: No matter the age of your kids, you can come down and enjoy the weekend with the entire family as your kids will be able to try out a range of sports including mini- and soft golf. Kids under 14 enter for free.

7. The Public Village: This is most popular social area of the event, located to the 9th Fairway of the Academy Course, with a huge range of entertainment from outstanding food and beverage options to big screens, shopping opportunities, and live scoring.

8. You won’t go hungry: The wide array of gourmet food offerings that are set to tantalize your taste buds make the tournament just that bit more enjoyable.

9. Shop till you drop: The event offers exclusive shopping boulevard experience for visitors, with a wide selection of accessories and apparel.

16. Live cooking stations: Guests in hospitality will delight in complimentary dining specially prepared by IHG Culinary Ambassadors Chef Tobias Gensheimer and Chef Hiroaki Nagaishi for breakfast and lunch.

17. Quiet please: There is something almost magical about the moment right before a tee when you are asked to stand still and be quiet, followed by the perfect sound of a driver striking a golf ball.

There is nothing quite like it.

18. Doing something different: Even if you are not a diehard golf fan, the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters has something for everyone, and that is what we love about it.

19. Gifts galore: Spectators will get a chance to win lots of prizes across the weekend. That is something not to be missed!

20. Community atmosphere: The first thing you notice at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters is the extra buzz in the air. You marvel at great plays and players and the plain truth that watching a game of golf live brings people closer together, irrespective of victory or defeat. You can sense it in the crowds, and you can even feel it when watching the players warm up. Everywhere from the grandstands to the driving range there is a distinct feeling that screams "this is something special."n

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Get Outdoors

Exercise

This 2017

Words by Rowad Ehlela

Exercise often tops the list of New Year’s resolutions. Make it easy and interesting for your self by getting some outdoor action that’ll keep you motivated till you reach your fitness goals!

D

oha’s January weather offers us a great environment to realise our health and wellness goals. Whether you are looking to improve your cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength. or general fitness, the outdoors can be the perfect location!

Activities Outdoor exercise can take many forms. It can be as simple as going out for a run along the Corniche, a walk around Aspire Park, or riding your bike through the Pearl. It can also involve taking your usual strength training outdoors with some simple bodyweight exercises and small equipment. In doing so you may find that the extra sunshine and fresh air is more effective for you than those dismal compound/tower gyms you’ve been avoiding all this time.

Outdoor activities tend to be community-driven, which helps boost morale and will actively support you in your endeavour. For example, joining a bootcamp or cycle club will help you stick to the program as you are supported by likeminded and encouraging people.

air and sunshine will have dramatic effects on your psychological state and cortisol levels, making for a much more heightened experience than that you would have within a gym. For those cooped up in an office all day, breathing fresh air can bring invaluable benefits to the lungs.

Vitamin D

Make the most of what you have, and enjoy

We in Doha are blessed in the month of January because here the sun is always shining yet the weather itself is still mild enough that you can enjoy a tough workout without having to be hooked up to a drip with 999 on speed dial as you might in the summer months whilst outdoors, so make the most of it! The extra vitamin D is proven to lift your spirits, improve your immune system, and manage your stress levels.

With the winter vacations behind you it can be challenging to come back to reality, but with a new fitness goal, some sunshine, and plenty of motivation, this could be a great 2017!

Perspective If I was to say, “Run on the treadmill for 10 kilometers continuously versus make it to MIA and back from the Corniche strip,” they are two dissimilar experiences although practically the same in distance and calories burned. The stress relief and engagement of the mind whilst running in the fresh

Qatar may not be the most adventurous of locations to seek outdoor activities but you just have to be smart with what you have – a small hill or some stairs at your local stadium would be ideal for some hill sprints and functional training, or a local running park could be a great place to run with the stroller for busy mums looking for a little cardio hit with the kids.

Ultimately the outdoor space in January offers you an opportunity to switch up your routine, take in the fresh air, and kick start your 2017 exercise program, whatever that may be. See if you can’t round up some friends and get the community behind you in the meantime. n Contact: Rowad Ehlela, Evolve Mind|Body|Soul Call: +974 5040 3234 Email: info@evolvemindbodysoul.com Website: www.evolvemindbodysoul.com

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SPORTS

The Color Run'’s New Edition

Hits Doha Next Month Words by Jenny Ortuoste Selected photography by Jesssie Palanca

The Tropicolor World tour promises an exciting workout for runners, spiced up with tropical colors, scents, and music

F

ollowing the overwhelming success of previous editions of The Color Run™ presented by Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First, that last year alone was joined by thousands of participants, the event returns to Doha with the Tropicolor World Tour edition on Saturday, January 28, 2017, at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).

The Color Run™ is currently the largest annual running event in the world. It is held in countries throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.

Now in its third year in Qatar, The Color Run™ is once again supported by Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar (WCM-Q), whose health campaign, Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First, encourages and empowers participants of all ages and abilities to adopt a healthier, more active lifestyle.

WCM-Q Chief Communications Officer Nesreen AlRifai said: “The last two editions of The Color Run™ in Qatar were a wonderful opportunity to bring

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members of the local community together, and they loved every single minute of the previous events.

“Our Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First campaign emphasizes taking the time to focus on you and your health but in a fun and relaxing way, which is why we have once again partnered with The Color Run™ for a third year running!”

The Color Run™, also known as “The Happiest 5K on the Planet,” is an event series and five-kilometer paint race that was first held in March 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona, with 6,000 participants.

It now takes place in many countries around the world for the purpose of promoting healthiness and happiness. It is an untimed event that declares no winners nor gives prizes; rather, it emphasizes fun over competition.

Runners and walkers start off dressed in clean white t-shirts, and pass through color stations, one every kilometer, where volunteers blast them with colored powder out of bottles. The colored powder is a mixture of food-grade cornstarch, baking soda, and dyes.

The past years have seen The Color Run™ present different themes and palettes of colors. In 2015, it was the Shine Tour, with glitters; in 2014, the Kaleidoscope Tour and Color Run Night, with glowin-the-dark powders.

This year, Doha’s Color Runners are promised a lively, island-style experience in the Tropicolor World Tour, where they will be showered with an array of vibrant tropical colors and scents as they run, walk, dance, jog, or skip over the five-kilometer course to the beat of exuberant island music under arches and palm trees.

After the run, Color Runners can continue to celebrate tropical-style at the Finish Festival, an after-party featuring the Rainbow Beach, an interactive island featuring music, dancing, photo opportunities, entertainment, sponsored activations, and massive color throws!

Color Runners are encouraged to arrive at the QNCC on race day by 7:00 AM, with the first wave of runners setting off at 8:30 AM. Race packs, included in the price of the ticket, contain a tropical-style t-shirt, a funky embroidered headband, fun tattoos, and a flower lei. n THE COLOR RUN Location: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), Al Rayyan, Qatar Date: Saturday, January 28, 2017 Time: Color Runners should arrive at the QNCC on or before 7:00 AM. The fun commences at 8:30 AM. For more information and to register, please visit: www.thecolorrun.qa Twitter: @TheColorRunQA Facebook: www.Facebook.com/TheColorRunQatar Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheColorRunQA Youtube: www.youtube.com/thecolorrun

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SPORTS

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

QH RECOMMENDS

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER Vitality Zone

Daily: Take advantage of outdoor swimming, a gym, sauna and jacuzzi at this amazing venue! From Sun to Thurs, entry is only QR 180. At the weekend, entry is QR 220. Open from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Call 4419-5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com for more information.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Watersports

Daily: Numerous watersports activities are available at this hotel’s beautiful private beach, including mastercraft boat rides, pedal boats, kayaking, wake boarding, water skiing and donut rides. Prices start from QR 70 per person. For more information please contact 4035-5152 or email healthclub.marsamalaz@kempinski.com

Lifestyle Recreation Membership

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Tennis

Daily: Marsa Malaz Kempinski Health Club. Outdoor tennis court on the island grounds, with private or group lessons with coaches. For more information please contact 4035-5152 or email healthclub.marsamalaz@kempinski.com

ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL WEST BAY Zumba Classes

Ongoing: Move your body to the tempo and catchy music vibes with our talented instructor.From QR 50 per class. For more information please call 4403-8888.

Aqua Gym

Ongoing: Train your muscles and enjoy the benefits of swimming under the supervision and guidance of our talented instructor. From QR 50 per class.

For more information please call 4403-8888.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

Tuesdays & Sundays: The Bay Club. Another name for this challenging class is suspension training.

Participants will be working against gravity using their own body weight and TRX equipment to complete series of exercises. It helps to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. Prices from QR 35 for members, to QR 60 for non-members.From 6.00 p.m. to 6.45 p.m Tuesday and 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m Sunday. For more information, call 4015-8888.

Boxing Fitness

Fridays: This class combines the principles of boxing such as basic punching, defending and footwork with cardio exercises specific for boxing training. Participants will develop coordination, balance and control. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m.

Members only QR 35. Non-members QR 60. For more information, call 4015-8888.

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Salsation

Saturdays: Salsation™ is a Dance Workout that convert functional training protocols into innovating dance moves. Members QR 35 / Non-members QR 60. From 7:15 p.m. till 8:15 p.m. For more information, call 4015-8888.

LA CIGALE BoxFit

On request: Ozone Gym and Spa. A stress relieving, 60 minute workout using boxing techniques which involve the muscles of the core, upper body, shoulders and hips to improve strength, endurance and agility. Gym members QR 50, non-gym members QR 75 per class.

Reservation is required. For private classes the price is QR 200 per person. Call 4428-8101 for more information.

Pound Fitness

Ongoing: Ozone Gym & Spa welcomes you to channel your inner rockstar with this full-body 45 minute cardio jam session of a workout inspired by drumming. Using Ripstix, lightly weighted exercise drumsticks, torch calories and tone while rocking out to your favorite music. Call 4428-8101 for more information.

Kangoo Jumps

Ongoing: Ozone Gym & Spa will put you in a state of health and fitness. So Join our new 60 minute Kangoo Jumps fitness class, it’s full of some exercises that can reduce your body fat; firms your arms, legs, thighs, abdomen, and hips.

Call 4428-8101 for more information.

Daily: Discreetly situated in the most iconic setting of The Pearl, join up now for the most exclusive lifestyle membership in Doha.

Experience the finest choice of stimulating activities for all the family, with a holistic individualized approach to your health and fitness. A private getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just a few of the benefits: • Complimentary towels and toiletries • Exclusive welcome gift • Complimentary use of all non-motorized water-sports equipment • 50% off personal training sessions • 20% off Spa by Clarins treatments and assorted retail items • 20% off all motorized water-sports • 10% off total bill in all Kempinski managed Restaurants, Lounges and Cafés • Special rates on group classes • Daily access to Kempinski Playroom For more information please contact 4035-5152 or email healthclub.marsamalaz@kempinski.com

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Squash

Daily: Sheraton Health & Recreation Center.

From QR 100 per hour. Call 4485-4600, for more information or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com

Yoga Class

Friday & Saturday: Sheraton Health & Recreation Center. A fantastic yoga class for only QR 70 per session. Call 4485-4600 for more information or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com

Martial Arts/Aikido

Wed, Fri, Sat: Sheraton Health & Recreation Center. QR 70 kids, QR 80 adults Call 4485-4600 for more information, or email HRC.sheratondoha@ sheraton.com

THE GRAND HYATT DOHA Work out with a friend

Ongoing: Jaula Club. Purchase a six-month membership for two and pay for only one!

Take advantage of our offer and enjoy the latest fitness equipment, group workouts, and dedicated support from our certified experts. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1056 or 7069-5188.

Beach and Pool Day Pass Offer!

Ongoing: Jaula Club. This January, you can have a 50% discount on all daily passes except for Fridays. Beach and pool passes are priced at QR 175 for weekdays, QR 275 for weekends, QR 100 for children aged 4-15 on weekdays and QR 150 on weekends. For bookings and inquiries, please call 4448-1056 or 7069-5188.

WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA Squash Courts

On request: Heavenly Spa. Reserve your own squash court for a fun and energetic game with your friends! Only QR 130 per hour. For more information regarding hours and availability call 4492-1682

Open Membership Offer

On request: Heavenly Spa. Trial a one month membership for the low price of QR 1000.

Offer valid only for one month, or 3 months for QR 3500. For more information call 4492-1682

Pool Pass

Daily: Heavenly Spa. Soak up the sun this winter with an exclusive pool pass. Qr 100 on weekdays, QR 200 on weekends and QR 250 for full access to all facilities at the weekend. For more information call 4492-1682

Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

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

Golf

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

Horse Riding

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

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162 Gondolania Ice Arena (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com

Sailing

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

Swimming

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa Aqua Park 4490-5872 or aquaparkqa@gmail.com

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

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

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QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA CHI, The Spa

Daily: This luxury Asian-themed spa provide treatments starting at QAR 250 to restore the balance of chi and are based on traditional wellbeing practices found across many Asian cultures while incorporating many natural Arabian elements.

For more information email chi.sldh@shangri-la.com, or call 4429-5000.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Spa by Clarins

Daily: Holistic Healing 130 min. Warm up your body and soul with our holistic healing journey this winter, allow us to greet you with a rejuvenating potion of ginger tea. The pampering awaits you in our luxurious private suite where our talented therapist will offer you a healing head massage to begin with. Followed by a holistic journey with our melting honey hot stones therapy to relax the mind and body. Complete your revitalising journey by cherishing the memories you experienced in our luxurious bath. QR 950 per person including full access to all spa and wellness facilities. For more information, contact 4035-5011.

THE RITZ CARLTON Spa & Recreation

Daily: Relax and unwind with our world class treatment therapy at The Ritz-Carlton, Spa. Enjoy 50% savings for any massage treatment and 25% savings for any facial treatment. For more information or to make reservations, please contact us at 4484-8000.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Uplifting Downtime SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA New Year, New You Detox

Daily: Six Senses Spa Doha. Kick off the new year well with a detoxifying treatment special combining a 30-minutes Rasayana Full Body Scrub and a 50-minutes Sports Deep Tissue Massage. You will feel like new afterwards! We will also give you a Subtle Energies product to take the pampered feeling home with you.

80 minutes for QR 650. For more information call 4425-6999 or email

Daily: Treat yourself to a Heavenly Spa experience that awakens your senses. From invigorating massages to access to the Westin Workout Fitness Studio as well as a selection of treatments, guests are certain to leave looking and feeling their best. From 8:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more details visit www.heavenlyspadoha.com or email: heavenlyspa.doha@westin.com or call 4492-1680.

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QH SENSATIONS

I

recently spent three nights in Sicily’s ‘second city’ Catania late last year. I’d visited Italy several times before, but never Sicily, and didn’t know what to expect. What a pleasant surprise it turned out to be! Arriving late on my first night, I hopped on the ‘airbus’ from the airport to the city (QR20). My stop was a five-minute walk to the hotel – Il Principe – in the heart of the city.

Up to my sizeable room, I watched some TV, and surfed the internet (WiFi was fast and free) before bedtime.

Walking shoes on…

Words and selected images by John Hunt

Sicily – off Italy’s southern tip – is the largest island in the Mediterranean. The delights of the city of Catania, which sits in the shadow of Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna, beckoned QH (literally!) to new heights…

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The following morning, armed with a map from reception and internet notes, it was time to explore.

Catania is organised in an easily-navigable ‘block’ layout, so it’s impossible to get lost. Don’t bother with public transport, there’s no need.

I spent all day walking around the city, marvelling at the incredible architecture. It seemed that around every corner there was something worth looking at.

A Roman amphitheatre here, a castle there, an opera house, and long, sweeping streets where designer shops sat adjacent to countless takeaways selling all manner of cuisines.

The city’s main square, the Piazza Duomo, was stunning. In one corner of the Piazza stood a fountain which provided a refreshing, cooling spray. In high summer, temperatures in Catania are not much lower than Doah, so an autumn or spring visit is your best bet weather-wise!

Catania is quite rough at the edges, even a little rundown in places, but this undeniably adds to its charm.

By mid-afternoon, and five hours of sightseeing, I’d worked up an appetite. I found a supermarket and bought a simple selection of breads, meats, cheese, and bottled water. Finding a bench in the shade, I made myself a turkey and mustard roll and munched away. After a couple more hours of wandering about I headed back to the hotel and put my feet up.

Il Principe was a great base from which to launch my various excursions. The Sicilia Convention Bureau, had booked me into this four-star establishment and it really hit the spot. I was in an immaculatelydecorated and spacious corner room with two balconies. The marbled bathroom was spotless and had a great ‘power shower’.

Breakfast was a continental buffet affair, but hot dishes were available at no extra cost so each morning I enjoyed a delicious cheese omelette, washed down with the local ‘blood orange’ juice.

…meet the Mountain Catania sits in the shadow of the 11,000ft-high Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano. Its frequent eruptions are accompanied by large lava flow, but the lava comes out at a snail’s pace, so don’t panic.

The Bureau hooked me up with Etna Finder (www.etnafinder.com). I felt quite the VIP when it turned out that they had organised a trip solely for me. My guide, Paolo, picked me up from the hotel and off we sped in his Land Rover.

It’s a 40km trip north to the mountain, and when you arrive at its base you appreciate its magnitude – it’s nine times the size of Doha. Paolo and I spent the day driving and walking up, down and around this natural wonder. You need boots for this one. Paolo’s knowledge of Etna was exhaustive, and he was also extremely funny.

We stopped at a restaurant half-way up Etna where a superb, rustic, two-course lunch was the perfect way to refuel before continuing our exploration. As you may imagine, the views from Etna are stunning and this is an absolute must-see. The seven-hour excursion costs QR400 per person and includes lunch. Well worth it.

Pizza time!

Paolo dropped me back at the hotel and a couple of hours later it was time for dinner with the two wonderful ladies, Daniela and Veronica, from the

Bureau. They had booked an outdoor table at the Locanda Cerami pizzeria.

You don’t go to Italy without having an authentic Neapolitan-style pizza and Locanda Cerami did not disappoint, with three delicious, dustbin-lid sized pizzas (just QR40 each) arriving at our table from the wood-fired oven.

The following day, after more sightseeing within the city, it was (regrettably) time for me to say farewell.

It had been a great ‘mini-break’ in a historic little city and of course, the great trip to Etna. Combine the two and you have a tourist destination which, despite being slightly off the beaten track, deserves a little more limelight to accompany the year-round sunlight it already enjoys.

Getting there, staying there Fly Turkish Airlines via Istanbul from QR3,250 return. The Il Principe Hotel offered a great room, fresh breakfast and superior levels of staff service; a double B&B costs from QR525/night. See ilprincipehotel.com for more. The Sicilia Convention Bureau website (www.siciliaconvention.com) is a mine of information. n

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QH SENSATIONS

Miami: A Foodie Paradise Words and selected images

by Francesca Cruz

Miami, Florida: no longer simply a place associated with peacocking fashion, a highoctane nightlife, and arresting contemporary art (particularly during Art Basel), it has also become an important destination for connoisseurs of the gastronomical persuasion.

Versailles Restaurant: Cuban food Every part of the city has an ethnic enclave that evokes the melting pot of flavors that Miami is world-renowned for. The starting point must be Cuban food. Miami is the largest U.S. city with a Cuban-American plurality—1.2 million Cubans to be exact, and some of the best Cuban food you’ll ever taste is right here.

The first stop is a culinary shrine in the heart of Little Havana. Versailles Restaurant serves some of the best vaca frita (shredded beef grilled with onions) and black bean soup this side of the Mississippi.

Quinto La Huella: Uruguayan fare An eight-minute drive south and you enter the financial district of Brickell, or Miami’s “Manhattan

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of the South” with towering skyscrapers and luxury condos. It’s also home to some of this town’s best cuisine. A calm refined retreat in the middle of the hustle and bustle is Swire Hotels’ EAST Miami, home to Uruguayan restaurant Quinto La Huella. With a wood parrilla centered at the heart of their cooking method, this restaurant serves great Mediterranean-style octopus and cuts of beef, while their wood-oven pizzas are prize-worthy.

American Social: US-style chow For some red, white & blue American fare, just a stone’s throw away is American Social, an upscale all-American eatery that provides the ambiance of “time with friends over comfort food”. A menu favourite is Meyer's Ranch Beef Strip Loin. It comes accompanied by roasted mushrooms and horseradish puree, embellished with Granny Smith apples.

Tosca Divino: Italian cuisine When in the mood for authentic Italian food and exemplary service, also in the Brickell area is Toscana Divino. Italian chef Andrea Marchesin will entice you with his cherubic charm and passion for earthy Tuscan cuisine. I’ll be returning for the veal tartare in white truffle.

Jaya: Asian dishes Our next stop is Miami Beach, specifically at Jaya, inside the Asian-themed hotel Setai, for the very best Peking duck you’ll find in this city.

Tender, dissolving like butter as it hits the palate, it’s a favourite.

Los Fuegos: Argentine cooking

An eight-minute drive north and you’ll arrive at the newly established Faena District on the beach.

Within the Faena hotel is esteemed chef Francis Mallmann’s Los Fuegos restaurant. For the Faena I need to take a ten-second pledge of thrilled allegiance. It’s a shot of serotonin to the amygdala.

Okay, we may proceed.

This restaurant offers contemporary Argentine fare, with a live-fire cooking practice considered Gaucho grilling. The interior design takes deep scarlet red, cheetah print, and gold embellishments and throws a party. Indulge in some of the best cuts of meat and some extraordinary yellow fin tuna.

Juvia: Peruvian, Japanese, and French fusion From Faena, it’s off to vibrant South Beach (SoBe) and the celebrated Art Deco district. Sitting regent on the penthouse level of a Herzog and de Meurondesigned building on famed Lincoln Road is Juvia.

This restaurant presents contemporary Peruvian, Japanese, and French cuisine against a vertical botanical garden and blissful panoramic views of SoBe. Menu options not to miss: the oh-toro crudos, king crab risotto, and Korean marinated short ribs.

Insert here twelve happy face emojis.

Il Mulino New York: Italian with a twist A wonderful Italian option for fine dining in South Beach is Il Mulino New York. With fresh produce and made-to-order pasta dishes, Il Mulino’s rack of lamb

are the spicy beef tenderloin from the charcoal robata grill, the hot pot rice, and the spicy tuna maki roll. Decorated in earthy hues with images of Kate Moss embellishing the walls, it’s the spot on the Beach now.

Makato: Japanese eats is famous on a global level. Recently the passenger sitting next to me on a flight from Nice to Miami was raving about it. Situated in the posh ‘South of Fifth’ area, the locals consider this place a gem.

Paris 6: French-inspired bistro To satiate the sweet tooth, we go in the direction of Paris 6. A five-minute drive from Il Mulino and you arrive at this 24-hour French bistro. They serve the traditional comfort food of steak and French fries along with other French fare, but their attaque cardiaque of deliciousness comes in the form of the Grand Gateau specialty dessert. It’s a warm chocolate sundae with a chocolate ice cream bar smack in the center that bubbles over with even more chocolate. Toppings do vary.

DÔA: Peruvian, Japanese, and Pan-Asian style Near the vicinity is famed restaurateur Arjun Waney’s newly opened DÔA, a combination of Peruvian, Japanese, and pan-Asian fare. The ceviche is some of the freshest you’ll find. Other standouts

Another great place for Asian gastronomy with the option of a robata grill is Makato. A 20-minute drive north, it’s located near the luxury fashion shops of Bal Harbour. It’s an elegant and upscale Japanese restaurant that serves up some of the best Wagyu short rib you can possibly dream up. Sit in the patio area and enjoy people watching.

KYU: Modern Asian munchies Next up is Wynwood, the heart of the art scene in Miami. Nestled within an area that is home to 70 galleries and street art is KYU. The brisket you’ll find here is so tender and tasty you’ll beg for the recipe, and the coconut cake is moist and decadent. You might order a few to take home with you—yes, it’s that delicious.

Bulla: inventive Spanish tapas We set off to Coral Gables, the historical and affluent area of Miami. With its Mediterraneanrevival style architecture and lush greenery, its downtown is a hub for eclectic dining. A great place for Sunday brunch is Spanish gastropub Bulla.

A coveted dish on the menu is the Huevos Bulla.

Consisting of homemade potato chips over jumbo

eggs, crisp Serrano ham, and truffle oil, it’s proven to put a smile on any face.

Copper 29: Small-plate savories A leisurely six-minute walk from Ponce de Leon Boulevard to the noted Miracle Mile and you join the in crowd at the old-school, ritzy Copper 29. Decked in chandeliers, dark booths, and a mahogany bar with dangling ivy, Copper 29 serves up comfort food with a swanky twist. The jalapeño corn and cheese biscuits, the short rib flat bread, and the tuna tartare are not just noteworthy, they are “go-ahead-andbook-your-return-to-Miami” kind of worthy.

Miami is not only a place for fun in the sun or for those in pursuit of a party scene. Miami has blossomed into a haven for art and luxury living, and a destination for foodies with multifarious tastes and refined palates. n

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QH SENSATIONS

Transforming Lives F

or me, doing this review was as easy as it gets.

I’ve been a happy consumer of VLCC since 2013, and each time I’m a bit over my regular weight or feeling that I need firming or shaping, I visit a VLCC Wellness Centre for help.

VLCC believes that good health is a concept that is universally desired. You can tell that they endeavour to turn this desire into an achievable state of healthy living by offering a harmonious blend of the latest scientific technologies along with nutritional and lifestyle counseling for leading a happy, stress-free life.

Making each visit “tailor-made” Even though I’m a regular, they always treat me at each visit as if it were my first time. This makes all the difference because we go though different life situations such as stress, hectic routines, sleeping problems, and other concerns over different time periods. Of course VLCC keep my history record, but we start all over at each visit.

We all know that is no such a thing as “one-sizefits-all” program. Each individual is unique, so what works for a friend might not work for you. We have different timings and goals in life, and what is clear is that coping with stress or overeating with a tip from Youtube or a friend can’t help you to achieve complete wellness as an individual.

About VLCC: serving clients in global locations The VLCC Group, founded by Mrs Vandana Luthra in 1989, seek to spark self-transformation, spread happiness, and imbue every individual with wellness for life. These three mantras stand as the company’s pillars of strength. Until today they remain the firm foundation of VLCC’s continuing success story.

VLCC have among the largest scale and breadth of operations within the beauty and wellness services industry in India, serving clients across 319 locations in 146 cities and across 11 countries in South Asia, Southeast Asia, the GCC region, and East Africa.

VLCC have leveraged an exclusive consumer database and an insight into evolving beauty and wellness needs to build and grow a diversified product portfolio in-house, through their subsidiary VLCC Personal Care Ltd. They market over 169 skincare, haircare, bodycare, functional foods, and fortified foods products under the VLCC Natural Sciences™, SkinMTX™, BelleWave™ and Enavose™ brands, to name a few, which are not only used as consumables in treatments and therapies at VLCC Wellness Centres but are also retailed through over 72,000 outlets in India, apart from retail outlets in 20 countries.

Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Images courtesy of VLCC

VLCC is widely recognised for their weight-loss solutions and therapeutic approach to beauty treatments. The QH team visited them to embark on a journey of transformation.

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With a staff strength of over 4,000 professionals including medical doctors, nutritionists, physiotherapists, and cosmetologists, and having served over five million clients (including repeat customers), VLCC is a category leader. In Qatar you can find their three branches at Al Waab, Al Duhail, and C Ring Road.

What to expect at VLCC Upon arriving at VLCC, they conduct a “zero session” that puts you under the expertise of

highly qualified professionals including doctors, nutritionists, dietitians, psychologists, counselors, physiotherapists, nurses, therapists, beauty experts, and dermatologists who formulate highly customized programs for you.

You start with an interview with a nutritionist, with whom you can discuss your routine and the goals you want to achieve. After that, VLCC provides a DNA analysis, which is very important for knowing your body history.

Next they take your BMI or Body Mass Index. It is a globally acknowledged, scientific method of measuring obesity. Recommended by the WHO (World Health Organization), it is a simple index of weight-for-height, which is used to classify underweight, normal, overweight, and obese adults along with their level of associated health risks.

A wellness program with indicated diets and treatments for your conditions is then customized for you.

When you enroll for slimming services with VLCC, you not only embark on a journey to good health and a fit body, but are also put on the path to complete wellness. With a thorough wellness analysis being part of all slimming programs, many of their clients discovered the fact that their weight gain was either a result of, or accompanied by, uncontrolled medical conditions such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), diabetes, hyperinsulinemia, arthritis, or other medical conditions.

Stay on the program for positive results Effective weight loss can be achieved only once the underlying reasons of obesity are identified and acknowledged. Only a permanent change in lifestyle can lead to lifelong wellness. If you behave and follow VLCC’s program, I can guarantee you will be successful in your weight loss journey. The best part of that is that is super easy. There are no crazy diets and they always allow a cheat day! The program was so good that I made it my way of life. I didn’t feel any problems and the results were fantastic. In my case, what worked was a combination of diet, massages, and treatments. It was all easy and very pleasant.

VLCC’s newest weight-loss treatment: MLD Every time I go back for a treatment, VLCC keep on surprising me with new machines and therapies, proof that they keep their operations state-of-the-art.

Recently they launched the new MLD treatment.

The letters stand for “Mobilise fat, Lose weight, and Defend against new fat formation”. This is a highly intensive and comprehensive body-shaping therapy that activates at the source of the fat cycle, resulting in a smooth and sculpted body contour.

MLD treatment can lead to an immediate weight loss result of 400 grams and 10 centimeters at each session, using triple-active technologies SlimSonixTM, which helps in safely detaching up

to 250ml of selected enlarged fat cells from the extracellular structure; LipoFXTM, which helps reverse the fat cell development cycle where mature fat cells take on early stem cell-like properties; and CelluSmoothTM, which targets multi-fat layers to reduce cellulite.

The MLD treatment is an advanced therapy that activates in stem cells to inhibit their conversion into mature fat cells, thereby reducing the size of existing fat cells. This scientific breakthrough is complimented by StemSlimTM, a technology that delivers great results along with body shaping, skin firmness, and skin smoothening.

The MLD sessions cover 90 minutes of intensive treatment. This helps in deep cleansing and purging toxins, releasing water retention, reinforcing firming and sculpting action, elevating metabolism, and restoring skin softness and suppleness by targeting early and stubborn cellulite.

• Aim to achieve and then maintain your ideal body weight.

• Do not add to nor omit any food allowed in your diets.

• Follow a regular exercise routine as advised by our professionals.

• Dinner should be had at least two hours before bedtime for effective digestion.

• Avoid overcooking, reheating, or deepfreezing food.

• Avoid the use of soda bicarbonate, preservatives, and food colours while cooking vegetables and pulses.

• Prefer the consumption of whole fruits over juices.

• Use wheat flour without sieving.

• Never skip a meal. Instead, have smaller and frequent meals.

• Always start your day with breakfast. This will keep you energized throughout the day.

• Always read the nutrition and expiry labels when purchasing packaged food. n

Clients are also advised to follow a home care regimen using a specialized home care kit that will help deliver a fast lifting effect, preventing and minimizing stretch marks and replenishing hydration in skin. Those who have problems with loose skin and cellulite will see an improvement in their condition after MLD.

Other VLCC treatments Here there are some of the other wellness treatments VLCC offers: • Waist and tummy trim treatment • Arm-Hip-Thigh treatment • Cellulite Control therapies • Body Firming • Bio-Energy therapy • Analgesic therapy for localized regions • Neuro-Muscular therapy • Integrative Massage therapy • Morphobust

The VLCC experience: soothing, calming, relaxing During my treatments I always find a moment to relax, and more than once I fell sleep – the experience is that gentle and soothing. After three years as their regular client, their polite and professional staff already know that I also use VLCC as a place to forget about stress and my non-stop life.

Since I take my visits there as a spa day, after my treatments I can also go for a blow dry, manicure, eye brow shaping, and laser and facial treatments.

You leave the VLCC Centre feeling healthy, beautiful, and younger.

I’m pretty happy with my results and I’ll keep going back to VLCC every time I need some professional help or to simply relax and enjoy a day off for myself.

Diet Tips by VLCC: • Remember you EAT to LIVE and DO NOT live to eat.

• Eat more fibre-rich food.

• Avoid oily, fried, and spicy food.

• Make sure to drink a sufficient amount of water throughout the day, ideally eight to ten glasses.

For more information: www.vlccwellness.com/Qatar Bookings: Al Waab: 4447-8682 Al Duhail: 4479-5085 C Ring Road: 4414-8188

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QH SENSATIONS

The Dish On Qatar

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Words by Carmela Yao

Make it easy to stick to your 2017 resolutions by making small effort, big impact changes

H

ow often have we started each new year with a long list of resolutions that we often abandon after a few weeks or even days?

Most likely we failed to stick to our list because we made huge promises to ourselves that proved to be difficult for us to sustain in the long run.

Let us do better and start over. Let us try something different this New Year. We can change our life in big ways by doing little things, and here are 10 simple ways we can achieve this.

6. Reorganize your home and office Write a list of all the things that you don’t need.

Segregate them into three columns. One column is for stuff to throw away. Most of us are fond of the phrase “sentimental value,” that’s why many unwanted things pile up inside our closets. Another column is for stuff to give away. Give them to someone who is more in need and spare the planet of waste. A third column is for stuff to sell for less.

Some people love vintage.

7. Manage your time

Appreciate life. It may not be perfect and you may not get what you want when you want it, but be thankful for what you do have, even the little things, because what you have right now was among the things that you once just wished for.

Why is it important to manage your time? Because time flies and you can’t get it back. And who is in control of your own time? You! Schedule your priorities. Buy a planner and keep a to-do-list, divided it into two parts - urgent and not urgent - and sectioned into two - the important and not important. You have to multitask because this is like shooting two birds with one stone. And don’t misuse the word “busy”. Everyone is busy with their own workloads so stop complaining. Don’t spend your time, use it!

2. Pay it forward

8. Be a saver, not a spender

It is about generosity. A simple, pure and genuine act of kindness will go a long way. Smile at 10 strangers and who knows, you might just make their day brighter. You can open a door for someone and hold it and you never know that you just helped a person with a frozen shoulder. Kindness is a natural anti-depressant – you’ll feel good by making others feel good. And don’t forget to say “Thank you”. Start with yourself. Share what you know and help when you can. Continue the cycle.

Forget about your credit cards! Use cash or debit cards. This will help you manage your money. Think about the future because expenses are doubled when you get old, that’s why you need to calculate how much money you need for your retirement. You have to live within your means and save for the rainy days. There are many little ways to save; for instance, don’t needlessly leave your lights on and the water running. Put away a small amount each day, say, QR 10; that would be a total of QR 3,650 by the end of 2017. Spend what is left after saving.

This is not easy, but if you just stay committed, you can do it. Tell your money what to do, because you’re are the boss!

1. Be grateful

3. Compliment yourself Learn to celebrate yourself every day. Look beyond your appearance and take pride in things such as being a great mom or dad, son or daughter, friend or colleague. It is up to you how you encourage yourself. Put a sticky note on your mirror or your work station, use exclamation points in every compliment note because it conveys strong emotion.

Reward yourself with a nugget-size chocolate. Yes, I said nugget-size or you’ll end up doubling the size of your waistline.

4. Eat healthy Green is health and health is wealth. Put more green leafy vegetables on your plate. Greens have lots of benefits such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer components, and more. Most of us don’t want to include salad in our meals but there are lots of alternatives to eating raw greens and fruits like blending ripe bananas with spinach and water, blending fresh berries with celery and almond milk, or simply having a green juice. This will surely keep you energized.

5. Learn to say no Every individual has their own limits and it is okay to say “no!” whether it is to a relative, friend, or at work. It may hurt or anger them; do not apologize but instead try to give options and reasons why you say no. Say no in person because your tone conveys a lot to the person you are saying no to. You can’t please everyone.

9. Finish what you started Be realistic in setting your goals - they should be relevant and attainable. Plan it and walk your talk.

If the plan doesn’t work, change the strategy or your plan but don’t change your goal. Life at times gives you some knock-downs but it doesn’t mean that you are knocked out. Get up and shake it off!

10. Put yourself at the top of your list Take care of yourself. Spend some quiet time alone.

Take a break and give yourself 15 minutes every day to pause and calm your mind because it reduces stress.

Turn off those gadgets when you go to dreamland. Eat healthy, eat less, and be satisfied. Drink more water and be hydrated. Walk tall and be confident. Smile and laugh more. Do a yearly review and contemplate on your future plans and get a leg up.

This New Year, let us start small and focus on the things we want to accomplish. Let us be goal diggers. Let us surround ourselves with all the positive vibes. Life is a gift and not an obligation.

We only have one ride through life so let us not waste our time and let us all enjoy the ride.

May true happiness, longevity, and good fortune be with us all this New Year and always! n

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IT HAPPENED

QATAR NATIONAL DAY Dec 18, 2016 82

QATAR NATIONAL DAY Dec 18, 2016 83

IT HAPPENED

AHB CHAIRMAN, MR AHMED HASSAN BILAL MEETS THE RT HON LORD MAYOR OF LONDON, ALDERMAN DR. ANDREW PARMLEY British Ambassador's Residence Nov 27, 2016

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CELEBRATION DAY OF GERMAN UNITY The St. Regis Doha Dec 6, 2016 85

IT HAPPENED

4TH AJYAL YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL KATARA Nov 30, 2016 86

A TASTE OF PERU Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas Nov 29, 2016

QATAR LADIES OPEN Doha Golf Club Nov 26, 2016 87

IT HAPPENED

A CULINARY JOURNEY PARTY HOSTED BY CHEF NOBU Nobu Restaurant, Four Seasons Nov 23, 2016

QATAR INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW Mourjan Marinas, Lusail City Dec 7, 2016 88

LAUNCH OF THE NEW CAMPAIGN “YOU BETTER MAKE IT CLICK” BMW Showroom, Alfardan Towers Nov 5, 2016

MARTIN SOLVEIG AT THE ST. REGIS DOHA The St. Regis Doha’s Grand Ballroom Dec 8, 2016 89

IT HAPPENED

GINGER BREAD HOUSE MAKING Blue Restaurant, Movenpick Al Aziziyay Dec 10, 2016

FIA WORLD TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP RACE OF QATAR Losail International Circuit Nov 25 , 2016 90

TRINITY QATAR 10 YEARS ANNIVERSARY The Secret Garden/Illusion, Marsa Malaz Kempinski Dec 2, 2016

THE QH GRAB BAG WINNER W Hotel Doha Nov 24, 2016 91

PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Doha Marriott Hotel 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

4424-4881 4040-5050 4445-8888 4408-7777 4429-8888 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 Sri Lankan Airlines 4444-1217 Turkish Airlines 4443-3027

HEALTH / BEAUTY

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP

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

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

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

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

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY 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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4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

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

4496-6000 4483-9360 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4203 4483-2424 4402-1702 4408-2300 4412-8150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 4485-7111 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880