Qatar Happening March 2017

QATAR’S FAVOURITE EVENTS MAGAZINE

March 2017

QR 10

March 2017

Bond of Friendship QH Exclusive Interview with Australian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Axel Wabenhorst

Chef for a Day

Win A Night Stay

AlRayyan Hotel Doha GM Luca Crocco Accepts the Challenge

At the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara

QH Talks to the Star of La La Land Ryan Gosling

ENTERTAINMENT QH Cover MARCH 2017 final.indd 1

ARTS

CULTURE

FOOD

COMMUNITY

SPORTS 2/24/17 1:18 PM

Al Karaana Lagoon Located in the municipality of Al Rayyan, this settlement was used mainly for sewage waste.

It is now being reclaimed and rehabilitated. Migratory birds visits this lagoon every winter.

Competition winner: Sabin Shaw Prize: One 90-minute treatment of his choice and a day pass to the Eforea Spa-Hilton Doha.

Check out our monthly Qatar Through Your Eyes competition on our website and social media platforms

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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The Australian Embassy Qatar

March 2017 EVERY ISSUE 7

Editor-In-Chief’s Letter

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The QH Grab Bag

ENTERTAINMENT

QH’s Editor-In Chief shares what’s happening in Doha

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Top Picks

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Top Picks

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Ryan Gosling: Living It Up in La La Land

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Picasso-Giacometti: Major Art Exhibition

QH gives you a chance to win exciting goodies every month

110 Doha at a Glance

Catch up on recent corporate news and products announcements

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Mikey Bustos: In search of his roots, identity... and ants

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Need-to-know phone numbers

Party Happenings c.mondo: Where the Party’s at in Doha

Enjoy an incredibly affordable Happy Hour in the heart of Doha

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Virgin Recommends

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Spotlight On Movies

The latest creative, cultural, and civic activities

The greatest art works by Picasso and Giacometti come to Doha

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His live show in Doha will bring humor, happiness... and ants

124 Phone Directory

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

Discover what’s new to view and do

The actor muses on his dancing and singing role in the hit film La La Land

114 It Happened

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

ARTS & CULTURE

Hamlet: Get thee to the theatre A fresh take on one of the Bard of Avon's greatest hits

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JR in Qatar

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Abdulrahman Al Romaihi: Pursuing his passion for comedy

Virgin Megastores shares the newest and hottest from gadgets to music

Hip street artist stages major retrospective exhibition in Doha

A Qatari standup comedian talks to QH about the changing face of comedy in Qatar

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

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Qatar Happening

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

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 41 42

Top Picks

Check out this month's local scene

The Australian Embassy in Qatar

HE Dr Axel Wabenhorst explains how his embassy strengthens the bond of friendship

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GoĂťt de France/Good France 2017

A celebration of French cuisine for discerning gourmands

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Mum in Doha

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Doha College: What do you want to be when you grow up?

FASHION & LUXURY 51

Max Mara with Gigi Hadid

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Spotlight on Fashion: Bouguessa FW 2017 collection

This luxury ready-to-wear label draws inspiration from eclectic sources

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Mum groups, a children's library, and the arrival of a new baby boy

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Top Picks

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Three Sixty Restaurant: A revolving treat

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QH Chef for a Day Challenge: Luca Crocco

AlRayyan hotel GM Luca Crocco cooks traditional family recipes for the QH team

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Caballeros Steak Night

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Chef Challenge: Food with a Heart

QH Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca tastes the best of Brazilian food

Every month, a chef shares recipes starring a healthy ingredient.

This March: Artichoke hearts

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Word of Mouth

A lucky QH reader shares their restaurant experience

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: Beacon of health care The facts and future of medical tourism and the healthcare boutique concept in Qatar

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Porsche Panamera: Perfection and performance on the road QH's Marian Nagy test-drives the all-new Porsche Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo in Dubai

Discover the best of dining in Doha

Food writer Nikki Palmero explores contemporary Italian fare served in a sky-high location

Bags to Love: Karl Lagerfeld’s Metal Signature SS17 Bag Collection

The legendary designer introduces the K/Metal signature, a new icon

Helping young people pick a career path

FOOD & DINING

The collection's new Lina II sunglasses are a tribute to a renowned female architect

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Single Statement: Kamushki and Anine Bing These creative jewellers show off their takes on the trendy 'single earring' look

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Home Centre: Presenting interior inspirations

Home Centre's interior design styles move your home from winter to spring

SPORTS 95

Top Picks

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Crunch Time

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Lifting Weights: Does it make women look unfeminine?

The freshest news in games and sports for Mission to Moscow

This is what actually happens to women's bodies when they lift weights

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

pg 76

QH Chef for a Day Challenge LUCA CROCCO QH SENSATIONS 101 Top Picks 102 Puerto Vallarta: Mountains, magic, and romance in Mexico

Travel writer Francesca Cruz takes us to a romantic, magical village of Hollywood fame

106 Intercontinental Hotel Doha Spa: Luxury relaxation

QH experiences the Diamond Life Infusion, a luxurious new spa treatment

108 Dish on Qatar: Wonder Women

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

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

All rights reserved 2017, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available.

Printed by

Gulf Publishing & Printing Company W.L.L.

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

It is my hope that within this, our March issue of QH, you will all find a multitude of subject matter that will inform, delight and entertain.

We offer an insightful Interview with Australian Ambassador Dr Axel Wabenhorst ; Australia's first resident Ambassador to Qatar. Qatar recognises the existing strong foundations of a cherished bilateral relationship that will provide greater developing opportunities.

Furthermore, we serve up a plethora of food reviews, whilst in our Arts and Culture section we have informative pieces on Picasso and Hamlet respectively.

Meanwhile, in our entertainment quota we catch up with Hollywood’s fastest rising star and elite A-lister Ryan Gosling, and for those keeping abreast with the latest trends we now boast a comprehensive and extensive fashion and luxury section that covers the Karl Lagerfeld SS 17 Collection and Bougessa Collection respectively. For our car aficionados, QH team test drive the latest Porsche to grace the scene in Dubai. Let us not overlook our crafted QH Sensations section, which aims to diligently acquaint you with the latest regimen of opulence to be found at the Intercontinental Doha, whilst we also explore tempting options at Ezdan Hotel.

There is so much of interest waiting to be discovered in not only the pages of this month’s issue, but also the outstanding city of Doha itself. It remains our privilege to guide you, so sit back, relax and let us show you all this fine nation has to offer. In doing so, together we shall craft memorable experiences that promise to stay with us for a lifetime. Needless to say, we at Qatar Happening look forward to bringing you all the latest information on the top events and exclusive deals over the course of the months ahead. Until then, I bid you farewell.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Chairman

Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Editor-In-Chief

Mr. Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca

Copy Editor

Jennifer Ortuoste

Editorial Coordinator

Art Director / Production Manager

Hairiya Santos

John Lee

Sales & Marketing Manager

Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager

Luciana Cunha Franca

Photographer Jessie Palanca

Marian Nagy

Office Administrator Carmela Yao

Web Coordinator Imran Khan

Distribution Assistant Jaya Prasad Gautam

Contributors

Luciana Cunha Franca, Jenny Ortuoste, Dawn Gibson, John Hunt, Paulo Fugen, Lynsey Riach, Rabi’ah M., Francesca Cruz, Simonne Stojanovska, Steffen Sommer, Carmela Yao, Nikki Palmero, Jan Janssen, Marian Nagy, Hairiya Santos

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A DAY OF SPORTS WITH THE QATAR ROYAL FAMILY

HH the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani witnessing the celebration with other dignitaries

HH the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani join in the National Sport Day activities

HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the observance of QNSD @ outdoor activities

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HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, HH the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and the other members of the Royal family participated in the celebration of the Qatar National Sports Day 2017 celebration.

Images courtesy of Gulf Publishing & Printing Company W.L.L

HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser takes part in Sports Day activities at Al Shaqab’s Indoor Arena

HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani spends time with the kids during the QNSD celebration

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This month, QH spoils you with a world-class luxury island getaway!

We are giving away a one-night stay in the Premier Sea-view Room of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, inclusive of breakfast and luxury boat transfer from and to the Island.

To participate, visit the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on March 10.

Y

ou reach it by crossing crystal-clear water on a luxury catamaran ferry to reach a breathtaking island only 25 minutes away from the heart of Qatar’s vibrant capital. Or, soar the skies and land on a private helicopter pad that offers an exclusive arrival experience and a bird’s-eye coastal view.

Welcome to Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara - a paradise sanctuary that respects local culture by offering an alcohol-free environment, world-class facilities, and limitless activities providing relaxation, adventure, wellness, and pure indulgence.

It’s a hideaway adorned in true Arabian luxury with 141 rooms, suites, pool villas, and over-water villas setting the mood for romance and unforgettable holidays with family and friends.

Bask on our private 800-metre beach, refresh yourself at the 100-metre long lagoon pool, or master the waves in our surf pool and enjoy a wide range of water sports.

Experience how health and beauty go hand in hand with expert care, from sensual journeys in overwater spa suites to holistic lifestyle programmes at the dedicated wellness centre.

Learn about precious marine life before signing up for snorkelling and scuba diving adventures at our retreat which features prominently amongst the luxury hotels in Doha.

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Leisure and entertainment also spoil you for choice, from bowling, golf, and beach games by day, to our VIP cinema at night.

Evolving culinary temptations showcase sumptuous Middle Eastern culture, refined Italian tastes, and delectable world flavours. Enjoy the prestigious marina and tranquil sea views, shisha, signature mocktails at sunset, and fine dining under the stars overlooking Doha’s regal skyline. n To know more about this spectacular island paradise, visit www.doha.anantara.com.

For inquiries and reservations, call +974 4040 5050.

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

ST. REGIS DOHA Retrofusion

Fri: At The Rooftop. From 5pm until late. Get ready to dance to the groovy beats from the 80’s, 90’s, 00’s and music tracks that will make you shake your hips. For inquiries, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com for guests list and table reservation.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES AND SUITES Z Lounge LadieZ Night

Mon: From 5pm to 7pm and happy hour the whole night. Ladies get two complimentary vouchers from 9pm till 11pm while enjoying the impressive view of Doha Skyline. For inquiries, call 4405 3561.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS Ladies’ Night

Wed: Inviting all ladies for a mid-week celebration in the city. Head to Dunes for a classy treat celebrating our female guests. Enjoy unlimited select beverages from 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM, complemented by upbeat tunes from DJ Katie Smiles. For bookings and enquiries, please call 4448 1280 or 7021 8094.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Mama Africa

Mar 2: From 9pm to 2am. It's no surprise that Afro beats have taken the world by storm and we're proud to say that it's found its home in Strata. So join us on the 2nd to welcome our awesome new concept: MAMA AFRICA. Groove to your favourite Afro beats and more! This night is all about Afro beats from around the region, groove-tastic, body-shaking music that will make you dance nonstop through the night. Experience the rhythm of a nation in the heart of the city as we bring you a touch of Africa. Price is QR 75 - includes one drink.

Ladies enter free before 12:00am. For reservations or further information please call +974 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

DOUBLE TREE HILTON Cinderella Night

Sun: Start the week in style with PURE ladies night.

Enjoy your favorite drinks for free from 8pm to 10pm.

Wear your prettiest pair of high heels to win a surprise! For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or eMail: doha.social@hilton.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

RYAN GOSLING Living It Up in La La T Land

ORONTO - Ryan Gosling is probably less impressed with himself than any movie star in the business. In person, he is distinctly matter-of-fact when it comes to discussing his work and he greets you with a charming nonchalance and shy smile. Apart from the fact that he is ridiculously handsome, you might never guess that he is one of the biggest movie stars on the planet.

Words by Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

The actor taps into Hollywood’s musical roots to dance and sing his way through a romantic film that looks to be the top favourite in this year’s Oscar Awards. QH asks him about that experience, how it is to work with Emma Stone, and what it’s like to be a dad.

Another giveaway might be the scores of screaming female fans who lined the red carpet at the premiere of his new movie and were blessed when the obliging and ever-affable Gosling spent a half-hour taking selfies with them.

The Canadian actor revisits his musical roots in La La Land, the sensational new musical directed by Damien Chazelle (Whiplash) and co-starring Emma Stone. The film resurrects the magic of a long lost Hollywood genre and transforms Gosling and Stone into a post-modern Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers.

As a 12-year-old, Gosling sang and danced alongside future musical superstars Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club.

But having later made his mark as an actor, he never imagined he would be asked to display his old soft shoe technique again, much less participate in oldstyle Hollywood musical numbers.

"I was pretty nervous about doing a musical because it's been a long time since I did anything like that," Gosling says. "As a kid, I used to sing 'When a Man Loves a Woman' at weddings. When you're eight years old, it was a huge deal to earn $20 doing that.

“Also, on The Mickey Mouse Club we were doing ‘90s hip hop numbers and that's very different from the complicated tap (dance) routines and waltzes we do in La La Land. But fortunately I had very patient and very talented coaches who were very, very good and helped prepare me. It was also great to have Emma as a partner - she makes everything seem so effortless."

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Gosling plays Sebastian, a cynical jazz pianist on his way up in Hollywood who becomes romantically intertwined with Mia (Stone), an aspiring actress and barista who maintains an indomitable faith in herself despite repeated rejection.

Touted as a favourite to dominate the Oscars, La La Land has already earned multiple Golden Globe nominations including those for Best Picture (musical or comedy) as well as individual acting nominations for both Gosling and Stone, who first endeared themselves to audiences in Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011).

The 35-year-old Gosling lives in Los Angeles with his girlfriend of the past three years, fellow actor Eva Mendes, 41, and their daughters, Esmeralda, 2, and toddler Amada, born April 29 last year.

He recently completed work on Blade Runner 2049, the long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott's original 1982 sci-fi cult classic, directed by Quebec filmmaker Denis Villeneuve (Arrival, Sicario).

QH: Ryan, it's very rare to make a musical these days. Are you a fan of the genre?

Gosling: I never really got into musicals. My sister Mandy was a big fan of musicals and she studied musical theatre while I was growing up so I really became acquainted with the genre through her.

What I enjoy most about musicals is how the characters are able to connect through the songs and dances they do and that's what I felt when I was doing the numbers with Emma. It's a very different and unique way to communicate emotion and romance.

QH: So the musical numbers were an extension of the regular scenes with dialogue?

QH: What are your memories of your early years as an aspiring actor in Hollywood?

Gosling: I was happy just to be able to have enough money to live and get enough jobs to keep me going and help my family whenever I could. I was pretty lucky that whenever my money was running out, I always found another part that would give me enough to keep on going.

In my own case, I never really considered giving up because I didn't have anything else to fall back on. Acting was really the only thing I was capable of doing. Most actors, when they're starting out, just want to be able to earn a living and survive until you get that one audition or one role that does it for you. You want to reach a level where you can choose from different projects and not just take any job that comes along just to be able to pay the rent.

QH: You've spoken in the past about how you would go on numerous auditions and how frustrating that process could be.

Gosling: Auditions are the toughest because you have to get used to dealing with the rejection, because you feel you're being rejected personally and it's hard to separate that from your identity. But I always tried to see it as something that's part of the business and it's not as if you've suffered some terrible loss.

QH: Where did you get your work ethic from?

Gosling: All the men in my family worked pretty hard. My father and uncle worked at a paper mill and I wanted to everything possible not to have to do that for a living. But I like working hard. I think you sleep more peacefully at night after a good day's work. Also, when you're working a lot you don't have too much time to worry about things.

Gosling: Yeah. That's why we enjoyed working with the choreographer and composer because they helped us understand how we could express what our characters were feeling for each other by the way they sang and danced together.

We wanted to stay in character in the sense that our characters' relationship would simply be extended and expanded when you saw them in those (musical) numbers. Our choreographer Mandy (Mandy Moore of Dancing with the Stars fame, not the singer/ actress) developed the dance numbers in a way that you wouldn't feel that they turned into different people as soon as they started singing or dancing.

QH: What do you think La La Land is going to convey to audiences?

Gosling: I really like how Damien (Chazelle, the director) was able to bring out this old-fashioned sensibility that we virtually never see anymore in film. The real essence of a musical is how it engages you by creating this kind of magical world in which the characters live, even though there's still this underlying reality of the show business world that they're part of.

QH: How did you like getting to work with Emma Stone again?

Gosling: This is the third film we've done together but until this one I never knew how truly talented she really is. I always knew that she was a great

actress but in this film she really does so many things and is so good that it was incredible to watch her and work with her.

QH: Your character Sebastian has a very jaded perspective on Hollywood whereas Emma Stone's character Mia has this wide-eyed sense of hope. What was it like for you when you left Canada at a very young age to work in the film industry?

Gosling: It was hard at times. You feel cut off from your family and the world that you know and suddenly you're in Los Angeles competing against a lot of other talented people who all have the same dream as you do.

Sebastian is close to turning into a very bitter and cynical person because of all the failure and rejection he's gone through trying to make it in the business. But then he meets this very optimistic and enthusiastic girl and he starts to remember how he once felt about that world. They help each other stay afloat at a critical time when otherwise they might have given up. When he falls in love with her that really saves him from turning into the worst version of himself.

QH: Your image is that of the ultimate nice Canadian guy....

Gosling: Thank you!

QH: Is there anyone you saw as a role model whom you take after?

Gosling: My uncle Bill. He has supported me ever since I was a kid and he always told me that I was going to succeed one day. He's always taken care of everyone around him. He's the type of guy who is a very good and generous man - the type of guy who will help people in the neighbourhood shovel snow out of their driveways. He's the nicest person I've ever known.

QH: As the father of two girls, what's that experience been like for you?

Gosling: It's like being in paradise. I'm so lucky.

The birth of Esmeralda and Amada Lee has radically changed my life which every day becomes more beautiful than I ever imagined. Getting to spend time with them every day is exciting. I love reading to Esmeralda and watching her grow up. I never really thought that being a father would be such a wonderful thing. n

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ENTERTAINMENT

MIKEY BUSTOS In search I of his roots, identity... and ants

t is remarkable to encounter a true artist, someone who not only expresses his untamed creative side but also meaningful humorous representations with substance.

That is how we see performer Mikey Bustos: a runner-up in the Canadian Idol talent show, a recording artist, actor, comedian, singer-songwriter, product endorser, and an entrepreneur. Through his performances, he shares his dreams and passions and shows how being true to oneself can lead to success.

Interview by Luciana Cunha Franca

QH chats with FilipinoCanadian singer-comedian Mikey Bustos, who’s here in town to amuse viewers in a night of singing and laughter, multi-cultural style.

QH: Hi, Mikey! Let us know more about you, your background, and vision.

MB: Hello! Yes, I am a Filipino born and raised in Toronto, Canada by two migrant Filipino parents.

I am a singer, actor, comedian, Youtuber, and entrepreneur. I migrated to the Philippines in 2011 and currently live in Manila. I love the arts, sciences, and am pretty much living life day to day, and hoping to do good in the world as best as I can while treasuring every moment as it comes.

QH: You were tagged by a Canadian music magazine as a man with “the voice of an angel”. You’ve also bagged awards, among them the Top YouTube Personality Award (Philippines) at the Influence Asia Awards in Singapore last December 2015. You are one of the most celebrated Filipino YouTube sensations. How do you feel about all that?

MB: Wow! I forgot all that! Haha! I am super grateful for the blessings that have come my way over the years, but in my little world I feel the same as I always have since before all those milestones.

These achievements were all because of the support of my followers so I see them all as our collective achievements, not just mine.

QH: You sing and do comedy acts as well.

Would you say you are more of a singer, or a comedian?

MB: I think inside I feel like more of a singer but I I think inside I feel like more of a singer but people

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also find me funny. Comedy is something I happened to stumble into, thanks to YouTube. I have been singing my entire life. I think whether I would call myself more of a comedian or a singer would depend on whose lens you are looking through.

QH: One of your biggest social media hits is the Filipino Accent Tutorial back in 2011. What is the story behind it?

MB: In 2011, I made a New Year’s resolution to upload one video to my YouTube channel every single day. They were daily videos of various things.

One day, I figured I would put up a video about how to copy my parents’ Filipino accent. The rest was history. Pinoyboy was born and completely defined my channel and direction in life. It was totally amazing!

QH: How do you get inspiration for all your subjects and acts? How do you relate to the portrayals of your YouTube characters?

MB: I think the characters I play in my videos are real extensions of my personality, and since they are genuine and honest portrayals, I think others also can identify with the characters since we Filipinos, regardless of where we are or were born, share common quirks and ways. My parents, and now living life in the Philippines, give me endless material.

QH: Amongst the parodies and spoofs you have made, which is your favourite, which is the most controversial, and why?

MB: Wow! You are making me choose a favourite child! Haha! I like them all for various reasons. I think the video Filipino Mythical Creatures rap is among my top favourites just because we pulled off miracles filming that video in just a day.

QH: If you could work with a certain famous celebrity, who would that be and why?

MB: I would love to work with Lady Gaga. We are the same person in so many ways, and I think we would create some cool things! I would also love to collaborate with the creators who run the channel Epic Rap Battles on Youtube. They inspired my whole Rap Playlist on my channel.

QH: After all the endeavours you’ve undertaken and the successes you’ve accomplished, do you still have anything more you want to achieve?

MB: Yes, but those are secrets. n Enjoy a night of song and laughter with Mikey Bustos: Event: YouTube Sensation Mikey Bustos Live in Doha Date: March 3, 2017 Time: 8:00 PM (gates open at 6:00 PM) Venue: Doha Marriott Hotel grass area Tickets: Purchase online at www.aynatickets. com/event/eventdetail/54 Contact: Email info@aynatickets.com or call +974 5590 8770 Mikey Bustos on Social Media: Facebook: fb.com/mikeybustos , fb.com/ mikeyjbustos , fb.com/antscanada The most controversial was probably the Filipino Accent Tutorial because some Filipinos first watching it might misinterpret it as degrading the Filipino accent, which it wasn’t. It was the complete opposite of degrading it, actually.

YouTube: mikeybustosvideos , mikeybustosmusic , antscanada Instagram: @mikey_bustos Twitter: @mikeybustos

QH: We found out that you love ants. Your intensive interest in them landed you features on Animal Planet and Discovery Channel. What is it about ants that fascinates you?

MB: They are so much like humans and they teach us about ourselves and the entire planet. Remember when I said I love science? I run an ant business (www.antscanada.com), a passion project that turned into a full out company.

QH: What do you want both enthusiasts and haters to realize and dig deep and learn from what you are doing?

MB: Perhaps the overall message in my videos is to celebrate who you are, whatever that means to you, and do it in the best way you can!

QH: How do you handle negative criticism?

How do you manage haters and negative vibes given that you are in a controversial industry?

MB: I don’t manage them. I simply don’t notice them. I put my work and message out there and people are completely free to feel how they want about it – good or bad. That is the essence of art, right?

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ENTERTAINMENT

c•mondo WHERE THE PARTY’S AT IN DOHA Words by Paulo Fugen Pictures by Jessie Palanca

Looking for a fun time after a hard day’s work but don’t want to drive all the way to West Bay or the Pearl? The c.mondo at the Centro Capital Doha offers an incredibly affordable Happy Hour in the heart of Doha! QH tries out this new hotspot.

Location, location, location When we first heard of the Centro Capital Doha's location, we were first struck by its location. Sitting in the Bin Mahmoud district on Al Jazeera street, the hotel is at the center of everything. Souq Waqif and the Corniche are nearby, while a whole host of restaurants reside a few minutes away in the opposite direction.

However, I couldn’t help but notice its immediate surroundings while I made my way to the hotel.

The area is full of commercial buildings; offices, showrooms and retail stores are packed around the Centro Capital Doha, putting it firmly within range of a lot of Qatar’s working population.

This is a particularly important point, as we were on our way to check out c.mondo, the Centro Capital Doha's bar and lounge space. Aside from being one of the newer locations in Doha, we wanted to check out their Happy Hour. Since they were so close to so many office workers, we were curious to see if this was a great place to unwind after a hard day’s work.

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Affordable sips, stylish decor It did not disappoint. We were shocked to find that they were offering absolutely all house beverages and sips at QR 20 each! The selection is extensive, encompassing any taste you’re craving. We settled for mocktails- our favorite is the Mokhito, an exciting concoction that combines the great taste of mint and lime with the kick of Red Bull, the perfect way to start off a fun evening with friends.

As we settled into our seats, we took in the stylish design of the bar. The wooden floor complimented the sleek bar set-up; the décor took a black and white tone that glowed beside the light emanating from the bar itself and underneath the lamps hanging overhead. The mood was set by a relaxing music mix, with a selection of pop hits and energetic house beats that kept the atmosphere lively and fun as we chatted away.

Accompanying this set-up were four TV screens on the walls, each framed by a large mirror that added a larger sense of space to the lounge. I noticed a

small chalkboard hung on the wall announcing that they screened a Premiere League match earlier that afternoon. For sports fans, the idea of an affordable Happy Hour along with the day’s match should be more than enticing.

Surprisingly great food Next came the food. The selection is surprisingly varied and we tried out a few dishes. The highlights for us included Short Rib Beef Sliders, savory snacks accompanied by a great barbeque sauce; Fried Mozzarella Sticks, filled with cheese that just melted in our mouths; and Crispy Fried Prawns, crusted in a coconut batter and a unique coriander chili sauce.

However, our favorite had to be the Vietnamese Spring Rolls, a unique bar snack that came with an exquisite sweet chili dipping sauce and one that had us asking for more!

A Happy Hour for all While they served us another round of drinks, they told us their Happy Hour lasts from 12:00 PM to 6:00

PM every day of the week except Friday. This seemed too good to be true; an affordable happy hour that’s accessible and available throughout most of the week? We immediately started planning on coming back with friends and taking advantage of the great prices for even more fun nights ahead. n

Promotion: Happy Hour at c.mondo on selected beverages at QR 20 Address: Centro Capital, Al Jazeera Street, Doha Timings: 12:00 PM- 6 :00 PM every day except Friday Contact: Call Nitin Dongre at +974 4455 5000 Licensed: Yes / Smoking: Yes Entrance: Free

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Stars from the Commitments at the Big Green Party Words by Jenny Ortuoste

The world-famous Irish band performs live in Doha for a night of Dublin Soul and all things Irish. QH tells you all about it – the background, the success, and the music.

H

osted by Experience Indigo and Iconic Events, the concert features some of the original The Commitments film cast members and musicians from the four-BAFTA winner and Golden Globes- and Oscar-nominated smash hit.

The Exiles Band provides able support to create a wall of sound that will delight the Doha audience.

The band The Stars from The Commitments are a nine-piece Dublin-based soul band, formed after the release of the film The Commitments directed by Sir Alan Parker.

The band are Kenneth McCluskey on bass, Dick

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Massey on drums, Ronan Dooney on trumpet, Miles Hyland as lead vocals, Sandra Hyland and Antoinette Dunleavy as lead and backing vocals, Andreas Nolan on bass, Serge Stavila on saxophone, and Abraham Hampton on keyboards and organ.

After they performed at a packed-to-the-rafters House of Blues in Los Angeles, Dan Aykroyd of the Blues Brothers said it was “The best soul review I have ever seen or heard.”

The inspiration The band was formed after the film came out, which in turn was based on The Commitments (1987), a comedic novel by Irish writer Roddy Doyle.

The book is the first episode in The Barrytown Trilogy. The story revolves around a group of unemployed young people in the north side of Dublin who start a soul band but fall just short of stardom.

The film, a comedy-drama, came out in 1991 and was a box-office success. In 2005, it was honored as the Jameson Best Irish Film of All Time, prompting Parker to remark, “It’s very flattering to be chosen as the favourite amongst so many great Irish films. The Commitments was the most enjoyable film I ever made, so it’s nice to see it get such recognition.”

The film’s soundtrack has sold an estimated 16 million copies, and includes soul staples such as Mustang Sally, Try a Little Tenderness, and In the Midnight Hour.

In 2013, Doyle wrote the book for a musical stage production titled The Commitments, which opened in London’s West End at the Palace Theatre.

The film, book, and soundtrack were all popular in 1990s, and this gave rise to the present band, which features some of the film’s actors who still tour the world to appreciative audiences.

The success Since 1993, The Stars from The Commitments have toured widely across the US, Canada, South America, Europe, Scandinavia, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

For over 20 years, they have been spreading the music of Dublin Soul to audiences at festivals, clubs, theatres, corporate events, and VIP parties, even playing to US president George W. Bush and Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern at a St. Patrick’s Day luncheon in 2005 in Washington, DC. They have performed over a thousand shows to hundreds of thousands of people around the world.

The largest audience they have played to so far consisted of over 100,000 fans at an open-air concert in Sao Paolo, Brazil, co-starring with legendary blues guitarist and singer B.B. King.

At the Helsinki Blues and Roots Festival, soul legend Wilson Pickett said to the band, “You are the guys keeping soul music alive.”

In addition to King and Picket, the band has also performed with Ben E. King, Little Milton, James Brown, Sam Moore (Sam and Dave), Steve Cropper (The Blues Brothers), Denis Edwards (The Temptations), Clarence Clemons (Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band), The Black-Eyed Peas, Arrested Development, and many other musicians.

The show This month, Iconic Events and Experience Indigo are

proud to bring The Stars of The Commitments to Doha to perform live at The Big Green Party celebrating all things Irish.

Among the soul classics that concert-goers can expect to hear over the two-hour show are Mustang Sally, In the Midnight Hour, Chain of Fools, Natural Woman, Take Me to the River, I Feel Good, and other tunes that combine the stylings of rhythm and blues, gospel music, and jazz with catchy riffs and improvisational twirls.

Both promoters and fans have raved about the band’s professionalism and the quality of the entertainment they provide, as well as the energy and enthusiasm with which they perform.

Don’t miss your chance to see this renowned band play music that has stood the test of time, and prepare to be swept away by the tidal wave of soul sound that only The Stars from The Commitments can create. n Date: March 16, 2017, Thursday Time: 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM / The Stars of the Commitments start 9:30 PM followed by The Exiles Band Venue: Beachside, Hilton Hotel Doha, Diplomatic District, West Bay Tickets: Advanced Early Bird tickets at QR 200 online, includes one sip; Regular tickets at QR 250, includes one sip. Purchase online at doha.platinumlist.net and from hotel concierge.

Conditions: 21+ only; Qatar ID or passport required for entry.

Dress code: Green, white, and orange (the colours of Ireland).

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE NAME: GLADYS DY STORE SECTION: BOOKS TIME AT VIRGIN: SEVEN YEARS

Best Part of My Job:“I was not really fond of reading. But ever since I began working here, I grew to love books, because we are supposed to know what we are selling. I have learned so much from reading. Working here is both a challenge and an opportunity to learn.”

FASHION: THE ULTIMATE BOOK OF COSTUME AND STYLE A definitive guide to the evolution of costume and style, this book is packed with over 1,500 costumes from around the globe and lavishly illustrated with a mix of original fashion plates, archive images, and commissioned photography. This book also includes features on famous trend-setters, fashion icons, and designers from Jackie Onassis to Alexander McQueen, bringing the world of fashion to life.

Retail Price: QR 210

JEWEL: A CELEBRATION OF EARTH’S TREASURES Revel in the most dazzling jewels on earth with this book, a glamorous guide to jewellery, gemstones, and minerals. By DK Publishing and with foreword by Judith Miller, Jewel shows you precious stones, gems, and metals; the world's most extravagant and famous jewellery; and tells you the incredible stories behind famous gems and jewellery including the stunning Koh-i-Noor, the exquisite Fabergé eggs, and the mysterious Hope diamond.

Retail Price: QR 175

MINDFULNESS FOR MUMS

YOGA: YOUR HOME PRACTICE COMPANION

Written by Yvette Jane, this book will help mothers gain contentment and serenity through moments of mindful thought.

Learn about calming mantras and mindfulness tips, and peruse beautiful images that will soothe the mind, reduce stress, and manage anxiety.

Retail Price: QR 51

With this illustrated guide book, learn classic yoga poses for all levels following clear step-by-step photographs and easy-to-follow instructions, as well as pick up invaluable tips on what not to do, with guidance from leading teachers from the world-renowned Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre.

Retail Price: QR 112

CRAFT: TECHNIQUES & PROJECTS An inspirational reference for every crafter's bookshelf, this book is a comprehensive how-to craft guide which covers the most popular crafts, from papercrafts and textiles to mosaics and jewellery-making. This volume covers 49 crafts and shares more than 50 inspiring projects, all with step-by-step photography and easy-to-follow text.

From DK Publishing.

Retail Price: QR 175

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Spotlight On Movies March presents a slate of drama, sci-fi, war, and fantasy movies to enthrall your imagination, provoke your thinking, and wring your emotions. Don’t forget to bring a box of tissues with you to the theater.

KONG: SKULL ISLAND

LOGAN

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy A team of explorers and soldiers travel to an uncharted island in the Pacific to find the team leader’s brother and a mythical serum, unaware that they are crossing into the domain of monsters led by the mythic, magnificent Kong.

Stars: Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson QH Fun Fact: Russell Crowe was considered for a role.

THE OTTOMAN LIEUTENE

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THE WALL

Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi In the near future, a weary Logan cares for an ailing Professor X in a hideout on the Mexican border. But Logan's attempts to hide from the world and his legacy are up-ended when a young mutant arrives, pursued by dark forces.

Genre: Drama, Thriller, War A deadly psychological thriller that follows two soldiers pinned down by an Iraqi sniper. With nothing but a crumbling wall between them, their fight becomes as much a battle of will and wits as it is of lethally accurate marksmanship.

Stars: Hugh Jackman, Doris Morgado, Dafne Keen

Stars: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, John Cena, Laith Nakli

QH Fun Fact: This is the last film in which Hugh Jackman will play Wolverine. He has cited his age and his skin cancer as factors in him retiring from the role.

QH Fun Fact: Nicholas Irving, former US Ranger sniper and author of The Reaper, was a technical advisor on this project. Irving was nicknamed "The Reaper" during his tours of duty in Afghanistan.

Genre: Drama, War A love story between an idealistic American nurse and a Turkish officer in World War I. Lillie leaves the US to join Jude, an American doctor who runs a medical mission within the Ottoman Empire, a world exotic, dangerous, and on the brink of entering World War I. There, Lillie finds her loyalty to Jude tested when she falls in love with their perceived enemy, a lieutenant in the Ottoman Imperial Army.

Genre: Family, Fantasy, Musical A live-action adaptation of the Disney animated film about a monstrous-looking prince and a young woman who fall in love. The prince, transformed by magic into a beast, can be freed only by true love.

What may be his only opportunity arrives when he meets Belle, the only human girl to ever visit the castle since it was enchanted.

Stars: Michiel Huisman, Hera Hilmar, Josh Hartnett, Ben Kingsley

QH Fun Fact: Ryan Gosling was offered the role of The Beast, but turned it down to appear in La La Land (2016) instead. Coincidentally, Emma Watson turned down the lead female role in La La Land (2016), due to scheduling conflicts with this movie.

QH Fun Fact: Josh Hartnett and Ben Kingsley previously starred together in Lucky Number Slevin.

Stars: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Ewan McGregor

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

ENTERTAINMENT

SUNDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Where To Go from 10:00pm – 12:00am! Combine this with our Bits & Bites menu and you’ve got yourself a night to remember. For reservations or further information please call +974 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Social Sundays with Soul Shake Paloma. From 8PM to 10PM. Bring out the rockstar in you with a live karaoke session with our resident band, Soul Shake. Sing your hearts out and you might just win the special prize for the best performance. Social menu for friends and house beverage packages starting from QR 150 for hops and QR 250 house beverages. For inquiries, please call 4484 4919.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES AND SUITES

MONDAY

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES AND SUITES

Hoteliers & Airline Flight Crew Night The Lounge. From 8pm to 12.00am. We’re offering all cabin crew and hoteliers a special price on selected beverages and snacks along with and exciting extended happy hour every Monday. Present either your business card or company ID and enjoy a night with us! Prices are à la carte. For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Ladies Night WAHM. From 9 pm onwards. Ladies, it’s time for an unlimited pampering session. Shake up your Mondays and steal the scene with our selection of Guilt Free/Skinny sips, all prepared to perfection. Ladies get unlimited sips from 9:00 pm onwards. Featured DJ’s: Chino Vv and Bruno Rocharte. For inquiries and reservations, call 4453 5323, email bnfreservations.wdoha@ whotels.com. Or please visit www.wahmdoha. com.

TUESDAY DOUBLE TREE HILTON

Lost in PURE! Pure. The week got you stressed - we got you covered: head downtown, grab a Shisha and chill with us. For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or eMail: doha.social@hilton.com.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Gentlemen's Night Library & Cigar Lounge. Happy hour offering is extended throughout the evening only for the gents, having more selection of manly selected sips and discounted price on selected havana as well. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Play, Pause, Repeat!

Strata. The fun doesn’t stop at Strata when Happy Hour ends. PLAY with our after work evenings from 6pm – 8pm, have a break from 8pm – 10pm, then repeat the fun all over again

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Ladies Night with extended Happy Hour The Lounge. From 7pm to 11pm. All ladies can enjoy two complimentary signature sips along with an extended Happy Hour from the special menu until 11 pm! For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@ kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

Ladies Night Irish Harp. From 8pm onwards. Ladies! Put on your high heels and start off your night with our live band, while enjoying 5 house beverages on us! Prices: QR 100 for men including one standard beverage. FREE entrance for the ladies + 5 free beverages. For inquires and reservations call 4485 3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

SeÑorita The Club. Get a boost of glamour with our special ladies night from 7pm till midnight, with live music from 9pm. To book, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

TORO TORO

Balada Latina Lounge. From 7pm to 12:30 am. We have our BALADA LATINA nights! Pure Latin beats in our Lounge & Terrace from 7pm until 1am. Special discounted menu whole night in F&B! Latin American ID holders get one sip upon arrival! No membership needed. Prices starting at QR 35.

Located at Marsa Malaz Kempinski- The Pearl, call 4035 5101 for inquiries.

WEDNESDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

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

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Ladies & Bubbles Shanghai Club. Ladies Night every Wednesday from 5.30 pm to 1 am. For inquiries, email shanghai.club@shangri-la.com , or call +974 4429 5295.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Churrasco & Ladies Night Latino. From 7pm to 11:30 pm. Churrasco is a Brazilian style barbecue laden with mouthwatering spit roast meats cooked in a Churrasco grill and served from a sword-sized skewer. For only QR 199 all you can eat;

ladies drink for FREE all night. For inquires and reservations call 4485 3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

TORO TORO

Wallstreet Miercoles Lounge. From 7pm to 12:30 am. Every half an hour is a Happy Hour! Suit up and check our board as signature sips will be discounted every half an hour. No membership needed.

Prices starting at QR 35. Located at Marsa Malaz Kempinski- The Pearl, call 4035 5101 for inquiries.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

James Bond Series Movie Night PAPER MOON Doha at the Jaidah Square At 8pm. Enjoy the James Bond Series on our cozy terrace! For inquiries and reservations, call 4016 6000 or email reservation.doha@ papermoonmilano.com or visit http://www. papermoondoha.com/.

THURSDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Moombahton Thursdays Strata. MOOMBATHON has arrived in Doha!

Originating in Washington DC from remixed Dutch House, Moombahton is a fusion genre of house music, dance hall, reggaeton, dub, hip-hop and electro that perfectly combines thick spread out bass lines, dramatic builds, two-step pulse, quick drum fills, ravey synths and the occasional rap sample… with a night of Moombahton, you can’t help but hit that dance floor! For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Cuban Night Latino Steakhouse. From 7pm to 11:30 pm. Spark your Thursday nights as our live band takes you back to the legendary Buena Vista Social Club tunes. Price at QR 190 per person including soft beverages. For inquires and reservations, 4485 3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

ST. REGIS DOHA

House Culture The Rooftop. From 9pm to 2am. Start the weekend in the new temple of the house music in town. To book, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

FRIDAY

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Bon Jovi Night Paloma. It’s my life, it’s now or never! Join us as we rock the night on March 3 with our talented band, Soul Shake. Sing along to Bon Jovi’s greatest hits like It’s My Life, You Give Love A Bad Name, and so much more. À la carte menu and special beverage packages available.

For inquiries and reservations, please call 4484 4919.

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ENTERTAINMENT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Disc Cover Nights Strata. Disc-cover the blue room as we party the night away with the best views in town.

QAR 75 inclusive of 1 drink | free entrance before 12am for Ladies | mixed groups and couples only | 9pm-2am. Prices: QAR 75 inclusive of 1 drink | free entrance before 12am for Ladies | mixed groups and couples only | 9pm-2am. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Marsa Malaz presents a Brunch with Harget Kart Amwage Garden. March 3 from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Step into the beautiful gardens of Amwage on Friday for a special Brunch with live entertainment for the well-known band, Harget Kart. Bringing you a mix of both English and Arabic followed by a fun Dj to take you till the sun sets. Adding to the atmosphere and enhancing your energy, allow us to offer you signature dishes and flavours from our talented international chefs. A large selection of appetizers, grills, main courses and live cooking stations will be perfectly positioned around the Amwage gardens for you to indulge in. Prices: QAR 350 per person, including soft beverages and QAR 450 per person, including selected house sips. For more information, contact 4035 5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@ kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/ marsamalaz

ST. REGIS DOHA

Mazika Night The Club. Every 1st and last Friday of the month. Bands will play special set dedicated to the legends of music showcasing the biggest Lebanese and Arabic hits music. For guests list and table reservation, call +974 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Arabesque Night Crystal Lounge and Club. From 10 pm onwards. Presenting Arabesque Night, Layali 1001 Nights with stars Fadi & Maestro Saleem performing all the latest Arabic songs, LIVE! DJ Greg will spin all the latest top hits of RnB, Hip – Hop & Commercial tunes. For inquiries and reservations, call 4453 5135, email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com or visit www.crystaldoha.com.

SATURDAY MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

MYA – Moving Young Artists Concert Grand Lobby. March 11 from 2:30 pm to 6:00pm. Marsa Malaz Kempinski have partnered with MYA in order to create a platform of support towards young talents in their pursuit of their musical dreams! Allow your mind to be swept away by the beautiful notes of the talented young artists in the majestic setting of our Grand Lobby. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or email restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

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Where To Go THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Les Soirées Du Chat Noir La Mer Bistro. From 5pm to 12am. Experience an absolute ladies gathering in a spontaneouschic and relax ambience. Exciting themes are set to spice up the night, to be announced every week through our social media page – facebook. com/ritzcarltondoha. Special prices on selected beverage await the ladies who’ll come to bring the theme to life. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

TORO TORO

Sunsets in Copacabana Lounge. We invite you to sit back and relax while our Saxophonist takes you back to Copacabana while playing Bossa Nova & Samba chilled sounds. Ladies receive two sips.

In addition, 4 options of promotion packages to be chosen between 4.30 pm and 9.00 pm.

No membership needed. Located at Marsa Malaz Kempinski- The Pearl, call 4035 5101 for inquiries.

DAILY S P E& CIALS

DOHA MARRIOTT

Happy Hour Daily at Pearl Lounge. Join us in style at the Pearl Lounge night club! With beautiful pearlescent highlights, 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! Enjoy selected beverages for only QR 27. For reservations, call 4429 8444.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS

Weeklong Entertainment Daily at Dunes. This is the place to be if you are looking for entertainment all week long.

Come hear the uplifting beats of DJ Katie Smiles Wednesday – Sundays. Dance with resident DJ Santiago Vittorelli Mondays-Fridays. Enjoy live jazz music with Rebecca & Philip every Monday, Tuesday and Saturday. For bookings and enquiries, please call 4448 1280 or 7021 8094.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES AND SUITES

Happy Hour Daily at Z. Lounge (except. Sunday). Indulge in a new culinary experience at the highest lounge in Doha with the Happiest Hour. Timings: Monday the whole night, plus “LadieZ Night” / Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday: 5pm 7pm & 10pm - 12am / Thursdays: 5 to 7pm.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Mon.-Fri. at Madison Piano Bar. Don’t miss the exceptional Arabic entertainment with the new Lebanese singer “Shady El Basha” from 6pm to 2am. No Entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable! Membership required. For more information, call 4428 8665 or 5518 8008.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Hora Feliz! Happy Hour Daily at El Faro. 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! Timings at: Sunday to Thursday 5pm-8pm &Friday-Saturday 3.30pm8pm. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Jazz Up – Go Irish Green St. Patrick’s Day Offer. Following Irish tradition go green and get some selected drinks.

Do a little shuffle on the dance floor to Irish music or enjoy authentic fish and chips in the sidelines. Either way, this will be one spirited party to remember. For only QR 85, you get one Irish beverage with delicious fish and chips.

Doors open at 5.00 pm until late. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Shanghai Hour Daily at Shanghai Club. Happy hour for QAR 35 per drink. Join the happy hour with a view; enjoy a great selection of artistically-inspired drinks, and delicious snacks from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. For inquiries, email shanghai.club@ shangri-la.com, or call 4429 5295.

Argentinean Happy Hours Daily at Fuego. From 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm., travel to Argentina while staying in Doha with the Happy hour for QR 30 on selected beverage.

Shangri-La Hotel, Doha, Level 1. Email: fuego@ shangri-la.com, Phone: 4429 5295.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

6 Nations Rugby Daily until March 18 from 5 pm to 12 am at Admirals Club. Delight in the breathtaking views of Admiral’s while rooting for your favourite team’s matches of the Six Nations Rugby Championship. Exciting food and beverage offers await you and friends with our grander à la carte menu. Indoor and Outdoor viewing are available. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8663 or 4484 8000.

THE TORCH DOHA

Belgian Chocolate Week March 8-11 at Sky Lounge. Introduce the World of Belgium Chocolate organized in cooperation with The Belgium Embassy in Doha along Specialty Chef Chocolatier Mr. Laurent Gerbaud from Belgium who will lead chocolate themed workshops, masterclasses and tastings.

Located on the 51st floor of The Torch Doha, Al Waab Street, Aspire Zone. For inquiries, call 4446 5600 or email restaurant.reservations@ thetorchdoha.com.

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

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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

La Mer Bistro The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

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

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

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4419-6100

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4484-8000

4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Grand Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

4428-1428

4408-7777

MIX Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4492-1555

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge Four Seasons

4494-8888

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

Illusion Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5757

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Z Lounge by Zengo Kempinski Residences & Suites

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4405-3333

ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

VCUQATAR GALLERY FORM (FORCE)

Mar. 10 to Apr. 4: This exhibition provides to more than 20 faculty members and staff at VCUarts and VCUQatar universities, through a juried selection process, the opportunity to present their creative research and artistic endeavours to the public.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Imperial Threads: Motifs and Artisans from Turkey, Iran, and India

Mar. 15 to Nov. 4: This exhibition brings a different perspective to the MIA’s collection by showcasing the connection between three major dynasties that marked the start of the early modern period in Islamic art - the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal empires. Imperial Threads highlights the cultural interaction, artistic influences, and materials exchanged between the empires, primarily from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

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

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCE Art for Tomorrow Conference

QM GALLERY KATARA JR – Retrospective

Mar. 6 to May 31: Qatar Museums showcase JR, a celebrated French artist. He, along with his artworks, are the subjects of this major retrospective show. Some of his video works are also shown at the exhibition lounge.

Mar. 10-13: The third annual edition of The New York Times “Art for Tomorrow” conference returns to Doha this March with the theme “Boundaries, Identity, and the Public Realm.” With discussions led by award-winning New York Times journalists, the conference investigates the issues that occupy the territory between art and public life. The event examines the role of art as a catalyst for economic growth and development, as well as a mechanism for city or corporate branding.

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ARTS & CULTURE Pablo Picasso - The Bathers

Picasso-Giacometti Major art exhibition comes to Doha Words by Dawn Gibson

Works by two giants of modern art, Picasso and Giacometti, are on display in Doha for one of the most significant exhibitions ever held in the Middle East.

W

hile Qatar Museums has hosted some amazing world-class exhibitions, the latest show at Doha’s Fire Station is one that has the art world truly abuzz.

In a first for the region, more than 120 works by two of the twentieth century’s most important artists, Pablo Picasso and Alberto Giacometti, are on display in a tribute to the friendship between the men and their monumental influence across artistic genres.

It’s a visual celebration of two distinct minds, covering paintings, sculptures, sketches,

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photographs, and interviews from the collections of Paris institutions The Musée National Picasso and the Fondation Giacometti, as well as exceptional loans from French and other international collections.

Khalifa Al Obaidly, Director of Fire Station Doha

While the Spanish-born Picasso is a household name, some may be less familiar with Giacometti, a Swiss sculptor and painter who was 20 years Picasso’s junior. However, Giacometti’s elongated figures are instantly recognizable as an iconic image of modern art, and he is regarded as one of the key surrealist sculptors.

Khalifa Al Obaidly, Director of the Fire Station art centre, said it is a hugely significant exhibition for Qatar Museums and the venue. “It is the first time,” he remarked, “that the artists will be shown together in the Middle East, and the exhibition will tell the unique and captivating story of Picasso and Giacometti, who shared many key moments during their long and distinguished careers both on a personal and professional level.”

Catherine Grenier, Director of Fondation Giacometti

Pablo Picasso - Portrait of Dora Maar

The very first exhibition bringing together the artists’ works concluded in Paris in early February.

Also a collaboration between the Musée Picasso and Fondation Giacometti, the idea began with Fondation Director Catherine Grenier, who curated the Paris and Doha shows.

When Grenier started work at the Fondation around three years ago, she was intrigued to discover dozens of Giacometti’s personal notebooks containing references to meetings and discussions with Picasso, a relationship she had been unaware of.

Further research revealed the two artists had enjoyed an enduring friendship and creative dialogue which deepened during their shared experience of living in Paris during the Second World War. “Even though Giacometti was 20 years younger than Picasso,” explained Grenier, “they had a lot in common – both were the sons of painters, both were very talented at a very early age and started learning about art in the studios of their fathers, and they were both, of course, foreign artists who lived in France.”

While cubism and surrealism are obvious common interests, both were also fascinated with art from Africa, Mexico and ancient civilizations.

“Giacometti and Picasso had very different characters, but they each recognized from the beginning that they were both important artists,” Grenier added. “Picasso had a lot of respect for Giacometti, and of course, Giacometti for Picasso.”

Alberto Giacometti - Self Portrait

Picasso-Giacometti is presented by Qatar Museums under the patronage of its Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, in collaboration with the Musée National Picasso and the Fondation Giacometti.

In addition to the exhibit, there is also a range of related educational workshops, lectures and activities, for children and adults.

The Fire Station art centre is a particularly fitting venue for an exhibition about a relationship between artists, considering it is also home to Qatar Museums’ Artists in Residence programme.

Fire Station Director Khalifa Al Obaidly added, “This exhibition emphasises the dialogue that existed between the two artists, something that we heavily encourage with our own artists.

Bringing this significant exhibition so close to the 20 talented individuals involved in the programme will spark creativity and support their creative and artistic development.” n

Pablo Picasso - Self-portrait

Alberto Giacometti - Woman (Flat III)

Venue: Fire Station, Mohammed Bin Thani Street, Old Civil Defense Roundabout, Doha Duration: February 23 to May 21, 2017 Admission: Free Website: firestation.org.qa Email: contact@firestation.org.qa

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ARTS & CULTURE

HAMLET Get thee to the theatre Words by Dawn Gibson

Actor and director David Pearson speaks to QH about The Doha Players’ production of one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, saying audiences should expect some surprises and laughs.

With themes of revenge and justice, love and loss, Hamlet has been enthralling audiences for centuries. David Pearson, who is directing and performing the starring role in the play this month, explains how The Doha Players are putting their stamp on the classic.

QH: What made you decide to perform Hamlet in Doha?

DP: First off, Hamlet is a cracking good play. It starts with a ghost floating about the castle scaring the

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bejeepers out of the guards and ends with a sword fight where nearly everyone ends up on the floor dead. In between, Hamlet uses his wit and very great humour to confront death, love, and treachery.

Our version is fast paced and very funny – it’s a rollercoaster that hurtles an audience up, up, up to gut splitting laughter, then dashes them down, down, down into deepest blackest despair and then launches them up, up, up again. That is the play Shakespeare wrote and we have striven to be true to his word.

QH: The Doha Players are staging the show as if it were back in Shakespeare’s time, yet with a modern edge. How will this work?

DP: Shakespeare staged his plays in broad daylight, so that the actors could see and interact with an audience on three sides. We are going to do something similar. We will have the house lights up

The reason to revel in this madness is because you have a passionate vision of how the play just has to be performed. There are many challenges to directing and acting while also working a day job, but the biggest is to ignore the people who say you can’t.

QH: You played the lead role in The Doha Players’ Macbeth, directed by your wife, Mione van der Merwe, and you both appeared in The Players’ last Shakespearean show, The Tempest. Shakespeare is clearly a huge passion in your family. Do you have Tudor theatrics off stage – say, a duel over the washing up?

DP: Not at all, Mione worships me. She kisses the ground I trod upon… but don’t tell her I said this.

She’s enthralled by our version of Hamlet – or she will be when she sees it. n

for the whole show and the audience will be in the round, only a few centimetres from the actors.

Also, in Shakespeare’s day, the actors did not wear costumes: they wore the same clothes that would have been seen on the London street or in the London court. We are also going to wear contemporary modern dress, which we hope will emphasize the idea that these characters do not belong to some far away fairyland, but rather are like us.

QH: You are directing and playing Hamlet, all while teaching English at Qatar University.

Why did you undertake such an ambitious project?

DP: There’s only one explanation: madness. Hamlet is Shakespeare’s longest play, and Hamlet is his biggest role. Only a madman would direct and act, and yet others have done so, including Laurence Olivier and Kenneth Branagh.

Shakespeare in Qatar Maybe it’s the universal themes, the love stories, or the swashbuckling swordplay, but whatever the reason, Qatar audiences love a bit of the Bard.

The Globe Theatre received an enthusiastic welcome when they brought Hamlet to Qatar in January 2016, while The Doha Players have enjoyed success with Macbeth and The Tempest in the past two years.

Theatre fans can look forward to seeing plenty of familiar faces in the latest show, which is produced by Kim Sturgess, who co-directed The Tempest. Gemma Robinson, a delightfully wicked witch in Macbeth, is playing Hamlet’s love interest, Ophelia, while the multi-talented Trish Slade takes on the role of his mother Gertrude (you may have seen her in Macbeth or Chitty Chitty Bang Bang). Chris Parnell, who starred in Macbeth and The Tempest, is Hamlet’s evil uncle Claudius.

Venue: Black Box Theatre, Education City, Al Huqoul Street, Doha Dates: Thursday, March 16 and Friday, March 17, 2017 Time: 7:30 PM Tickets: Adults QR60, students QR30, including university students with ID Email: secretary@thedohaplayers.com Facebook: The Doha Players Twitter: @TheDohaPlayers

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ARTS & CULTURE

JR in Qatar Hip street artist stages major retrospective exhibition Qatar Museums plays host to JR Répertoire, an art show displaying the works of the anonymous French artist who simply goes by a two-letter moniker.

J

R is one of a handful of internationally touted street artists who combine art and engaged actions to create large-scale outdoor installations, films, photographs, and videos around the world, using the streetscape as his canvas and his inspiration.

He purposely tickles one’s imagination and interest by not explaining his works of art, allowing the

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"Inside Out, Au Panthéon!, Dome, Paris, France", 2014 Colour photograph, mat plexiglas, aluminium, wood 125 x 170 cm / 49 1/4 x 67 inches © JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

View of JR’s Giants in Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympic games. ©JR-ART.NET

subjects, protagonists, spectators, and passersby to raise their own questions and create their own answers.

A self-proclaimed “urban activist,” he believes that the street is the largest art gallery in the world. He produces “pervasive art” on buildings and slums around Paris, Palestine, Malaysia, and Brazil.

Reveling in his unorthodox artistry, Qatar Museums, in collaboration with Galerie Perrotin, exhibits JR’s creations at the QM Gallery Katara in Doha this month. JR Répertoire, will feature works from some of the key series that made the anonymous artist famous around the world.

"UNFRAMED, a group posing in a bark moored on the beach, reviewed by JR, circa 1930, Marseille, France ", 2013 Color photograph, mat plexiglas, aluminium, wood 180 x 270 cm / 70 3/4 inches x 8.86 feet © JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

"JR at the Louvre, La Pyramide, 20 June 2016, 9:19 PM", 2016 Color print, mounted on dibond, glass, oak frame 130 x 210 cm / 51 3/16 x 82 11/16 inches © JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

View of the exhibition JR at Museum Frieder Burda, Baden-Baden, Germany, 2014 ©JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

"Unframed, An immigrant family views the Statue of Liberty from the Ellis Island Immigration Station dock - by JR, courtesy of National Park Service, Statue of Liberty National Monument, U.S.A., 2014" Colour print, mounted on dibond, plexiglas 250 x 180 cm / 98 1/2 x 70 3/4 inches © JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

"The Wrinkles of the City, Istanbul, Kadir An, Turkey", 2015 Color photograph, mat plexiglas, aluminium, wood 180 x 270 cm / 70 7/8 x 106 5/16 inches © JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

"28 Millimètres : Women Are Heroes, Pasting in Monrovia streets, Liberia", 2008 Colour photograph, polished plexiglas, aluminium, wood 125 x 222 cm / 49 1/4 inches x 7.3 feet © JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

JR IN QATAR Venue: Qatar Museums Gallery Katara (Building 10) Public Opening: March 9, 2017 Duration: March 9 to May 31, 2017 Website: www.qm.org.qa Facebook: Qatar Museums Twitter: ‎@Qatar_Museums View of the exhibition JR “A Survey Exhibition” at HOCA – Hong Kong Contemporary Art Foundation, 2015 Photo: Power Quevedo ©JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

YouTube: Qatar Museums JR’s website: www.jr-art.net "The Wrinkles of the City, Los Angeles, Robert’s eye", 2011 Facade of Galerie Perrotin, Paris Photo : Florian Kleinefenn ©JR-ART.NET Courtesy Galerie Perrotin

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ARTS & CULTURE

ABDULRAHMAN

AL ROMAIHI Pursuing his passion for comedy Words by Rabi’ah M.

For this Qatari standup comedian, comedy is not just a hobby but a passion he enjoys daily. He talks to QH about the changing face of comedy in Qatar and the challenges of launching a comedy club.

M

aking someone laugh is not an easy task.

In fact, you need to be blessed with the gift of putting a smile on someone’s face.

For Abdulrahman Al Romaihi, a student at the Qatar University, there is more to life than just studying business management and international business.

Comedy is his passion As he explains: “I think it is something deeply engraved within my personality. It is not simply the way that people assume it is talent; is more like a passion and means of entertaining others by putting a smile on their face.”

Reminiscing about his school days, Abdulrahman says he was a ‘clown,’ the type who would never make fun of teachers but instead would make fun with his teachers and classmates.

One of his trips to Malaysia was a turning point for him when he had the opportunity to interact with multicultural people.

“I remember that during my first travels to Malaysia for work placement, I felt comedy was one of the most ideal ways to interact with others and enable

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me to get to know them better. From that point onwards, I pursued my passion for comedy.”

How to make people laugh Defining himself as “assertive yet aggressive towards opportunities,” Abdulrahman is fearless when it comes to exploring new things.

He likes using his ‘ears’ more than ‘his mouth.’ The art of making someone laugh is quite challenging, as Abdulrahman explains: “It is known that laughter is the most complex impression in human beings which makes it challenging to a certain extent. But the more one practices, the easier it is to know what one’s audience wants and enjoys.

One interesting discovery made during the interview was that he is a certified international trainer in public speech. He emphasizes that the training was not for the sole purpose of being a comedian, but it has certainly helped him more than he anticipated.

“A comedian’s style of public speaking is also important [and should be considered] when they are writing things they assume the audience would like and then actually performing it to a crowd they have never seen before.”

Comedy as a career in Qatar In a country like Qatar, pursuing comedy as a career can be risky.

Abdulrahman explains comedy as a career is in its embryonic phase here. There are no venues to do comedy except SUCQ and bars which have open mics, but for someone like him who is a Qatari national, he is not comfortable performing in such places.

He believes building a comedy club from scratch can be an excellent method of launching standup comedy in Qatar, but for now it is simply a hobby in Qatar. Back in 2015 was the first time he performed in a show in the Black Box Theater at the Qatar Foundation.

Getting the laughs So how does Abdulrahman keep his comedic skills fresh and funny?

He says, “I enjoy writing one joke per day at least, and then drop it in a daily chat with my friends and family.” One of the most challenging aspects he has faced is the uncertainty of whether a joke will make the audience crack with laugher or not.

He is quick to say that there is tons of support from people in the Qatari community; interestingly enough, some of them do not even understand English. Respecting the culture is important for a comedian and they need to be sensitive to the culture to a certain extent.

The future of comedy in Qatar Do we see the comedy club evolving in Qatar? I ask Abdulrahman.

He explains: “Getting an entertaining license in Qatar for performing at places can be difficult depending on the group, even though I recently had to prepare for a show in one of the Souk Waqif restaurants.”

For those who are interested in pursuing comedy, they need to be courageous enough to accept criticism. They need to learn what type of advice they must take and what to leave.

Abdulrahman points out: “Always remember that comedy comes not only by practice, but by performing.n

COMMUNITY

Top Picks

GRAND HYATT DOHA 2017 Qatar Dragon Boat Festival Mar 10: This is Qatar’s first dragon boat competition of the season. Come cheer for your favourite team as Qatar’s best dragon boat clubs compete in the 200-metre sprint. The competition has two categories: Premier and Corporate/ Recreational.

DOHA EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTER Cityscape Qatar 2017 Mar. 13-15: A three-day high-powered event that provides a business environment for real estate professionals where they can do business, engage in discussion, and establish new partnerships.

The exhibition will be complimented by the Qatar Market Overview where interesting discussions, government policy briefings, and sector updates will be presented by the industry’s leading experts and policy-makers.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Facade Design and Engineering Innovation Exchange Qatar Mar 27: This one-day event showcases products such as designs and materials, among them sustainable and fireproof façades. There will be opportunities to network with industry experts in engineering innovation, design innovation, and design of high-performing and iconic buildings.

This will interest professionals and students of architecture, IT, and technology industries.

ASPIRE PARK DOHA LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES BUILDING, AR-RAYYAN

AppsEvent Qatar Summit Mar 10-12: Organized by AppsEvents, this conference will cover topics such as managing and rolling out Chromebooks and tablets. Learn Google Apps administration with their structured certification program.

Reverse Walk – Rewind the Pain Mar 3: Move forward by walking in reverse!

Presented by California Tortilla in association with the Qatar Diabetes Association, this fun-packed event aims to spread awareness about diabetes and how to take steps to a healthier lifestyle.

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COMMUNITY

The

Australian Embassy in

Qatar Interview by Luciana Cunha Franca Pictures by Jessie Palanca

A major aspect of the art of diplomacy is the forging of strong and abiding links between countries for mutual benefits and understanding in the areas of trade, education, culture and others. QH recently conversed with the Australian Ambassador to Qatar, His Excellency Dr. Axel Wabenhorst, about his embassy’s role in improving connections between the two nations.

D

r. Wabenhorst is a career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He has held several important positions, among them Deputy Head of Mission, Tehran with earlier postings in Riyadh and Baghdad; and Director, UN Security Council Task Force. He holds a BSc (Hons) majoring in Pure Mathematics from Monash University and a DPhil in Computer Science from Oxford University. He speaks Arabic, German, and Farsi.

QH: Tell me about your career and how you became the Ambassador of Australia in Qatar.

HE Axel Wabenhorst: I joined the Australian diplomatic service 17 years ago. This is my third

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posting in the Middle East: I have had previous long-term postings in Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as a shorter posting to Iraq. I also studied the Arabic language in Jordan before my first posting to Saudi Arabia.

QH: Have you been here before? What are your thoughts regarding Qatar?

AW: I hadn’t been to Qatar before, although I did transit through the airport a few times. Above all, Qatar is a safe place where many expatriates have chosen to bring their families. The number of conferences and other international events and visits is higher than I expected, and I am very busy as a result!

Qatar is a comfortable place to live, there are many cultural and sporting activities. It is a diverse country, hosting people from all over the world, which is also reflected in the diversity of food in restaurants and supermarkets. But Qatar also values its traditions; for instance, racing falcons at the Marmi festival, the dates festival in summer, and the agricultural festival in Katara. And the culture of hospitality is strong.

QH: What was the main reason for opening an Australian Embassy in Qatar?

AW: The Australian Embassy opened in November 2016. The main reason was to improve trade and investment links between Australia and Qatar.

QH: What does your work an as ambassador entail?

these and other sectors such as infrastructure. Twoway trade was worth US$1.26 billion in 2015-2016.

Links between Australia and Qatar are being facilitated by Qatar Airways. Travelling to Australia has never been easier: there are now direct flights from Doha to four different Australian cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth. And Qatar Airways recently announced a fifth destination, Canberra. Australian food products are wellknown in Qatar, particular meat, but also fruit and vegetables.

QH: How can the Embassy benefit the relationship between Qatar and Australia?

AW: In addition to what I explained earlier, the Embassy is participating in the life of the community,

AW: It is a diverse role, and no two days are the same. An embassy, and particularly an ambassador, is a channel for communication between governments. I work to understand Qatar’s needs and how Australians and Australian companies and the Australian government can cooperate with Qatar to meet those needs.

And then, I seek to explain Qatar’s needs to the Australian side, and opportunities in Australia to the Qatari side. So it is essentially a communication role. As part of that, I also aim to explain the cultural context to help build bridges between the two countries. Management of the Embassy is also an important part of my work, more so recently because the Embassy is new (both the building and the staff).

AW: We promote understanding between Australians and residents of Qatar; for example, through the exchanges facilitated by the Council for Australian-Arab Relations. A group of Australian journalism students visited Qatar in summer, an Australian-Arab female engineer visited Qatar to promote the role of women in engineering, and an Australian-Arab female writer visited Qatar and other Arab countries to research a book on understanding Arab women.

QH: Have Qatar and Australia signed any beneficial agreements recently?

AW: Qatar and Australia signed an Air Services Agreement in November 2016, and a Memorandum of Understanding on education and research in January 2016.

AW: What are your expectations as an Ambassador in Qatar?

QH: Is the number of Australian citizens in the country increasing or decreasing?

AW: The relationship has been strong, and it continues to grow. Qatar opened its Embassy in Australia in 2012. There have been visits by ministers; for example, Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs visited Qatar in November 2016 to open the Australian Embassy. Qatar is an important investor in Australian agriculture and real estate, and there are more opportunities for investment in

QH: What are the projects of Australian Embassy that you consider beneficial to our community ?

AW: The feedback has generally been positive. Through our presence in Qatar, Embassy services have been more readily available to Embassy clients. We will continue to value feedback in order to improve the services we offer to our clients.

AW: We provide passport and notarial services to Australians living in Qatar and provide information to Qatar residents about Australia.

QH: How has the relationship between Qatar and Australia been over the past years?

We have major cities and diverse climate zones. We have coral reefs, rainforests, desert, and temperate areas. The Gold Coast and our major cities are already popular destinations, and travellers from Qatar take advantage of the opposite seasons – the weather in Australia is cool during the Qatari summer. Australia is an English speaking country, it is safe, and it has good infrastructure.

QH: What kind of feedback have you received since the Australian Embassy opened its doors?

QH: What are the benefits for Australians and Qatar residents on having the Embassy in Qatar?

AW: There are about 5,500 Australians in Qatar, working in diverse fields such as petrochemicals, infrastructure, journalism, aviation, health care, education, finance, and administration. The number is increasing gradually. Australians are well-integrated here.

universities in the top 100 universities of the world as evaluated by the Times Higher Education supplement.

visiting schools, participating in National Sports Day, and attending some weddings and cultural events such as Marmi and the local Dates Festival.

QH: Do Qataris nationals visit Australia often?

Do you believe that in having an Australian Embassy in Qatar, the number of tourists from Qatar (nationals & residents) to Australia may increase?

AW: More and more people from Qatar are visiting Australia for tourism, business, and education. As we make residents from Qatar more aware of what Australia can offer them, the number will increase.

Australia is the third most popular destination for foreign students worldwide. We have six

AW: The Embassy will work to increase the familiarity between Australia and Qatar. We would like Qatar residents to become more aware of Australia as a destination for investment, tourism, and education, and as a source of highquality products and services. I would like Qataris to consider Australia as a partner for realising Qatar’s goals, such as its Vision 2030. Raising Australia’s profile in Qatar will take time and the progress will be gradual. n Address: Tornado Tower, Majlis Al Taawon Street, Doha Phone: + 974 4007-8500 Website: qatar.embassy.gov.au Email: embassy.doha@dfat.gov.au Twitter: @AusAmbQatar

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COMMUNITY

Goût de France/ Good France 2017 For the third year running, Goût de France/Good France will bring together more than 2,000 chefs cooking 2,000 menus in 150 countries on five continents to celebrate French cuisine.

A dinner will be held on March 22 at Idam Restaurant by Alain Ducasse (MIA).

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Drawing inspiration from Auguste Escoffier, who, in 1912, launched Les Dîners d’Épicure as a way of introducing people to the excellence of French cuisine, Goût de France/Good France is revisiting this idea in collaboration with restaurants from all over the world.

The third edition of Goût de France/Good France will take place on March 21, 2017, as a worldwide celebration of the excellence, creativity, and diversity of French cuisine.

Established in 2015, when French cuisine was added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, this event is an opportunity for chefs and restaurateurs to showcase recipes inspired by French expertise.

This event, organized in the form of a dinner, will honor the excellence of French cuisine, its capacity for innovation, and the values that it conveys: sharing, enjoyment, and respect for our peers, the planet, and the art of eating well.

The following restaurants in Doha are participating in this gastronomic event: • La Mer Bistro (The Ritz Carlton, Doha) • La Varenne, Trader Vic’s (Hilton) • Coral (InterContinental Doha) • Prime (Intercontinental the City) • Yum Yum (K108) • Market by Jean-Georges (W Hotel) • Liquidity (Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park) • Al Dirwandi (Adagio) • La Villa (Mercure Grand Hotel)

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GOOD FRANCE 2017 Event websites: www.goodfrance.com, www.ambafrance-qa.org Twitter: @franceauqatar, @Good_France Hashtag: #GoodFrance

COMMUNITY

Mum in Doha celebrates new baby boy Words and images by Lynsey Riach

Have a new infant at home? ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ the saying goes, so reach out to a supportive community of mothers for help and guidance.

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s I type this latest column with a strong cup of tea in one hand, I find myself distracted by our beautiful newborn baby boy who is just within my reach.

He may be our second child but I’m still amazed at how magical it all is again. Those sleepless nights may have returned but so too has the smell of a newborn baby. His super soft skin and tiny baby clothes leave me in utter awe and complete wonder that this baby is in fact ours.

We are only a few weeks in but I’m finding myself to be much more relaxed, present, patient, and enjoying it more this time around as I know from experience just how fast it all goes!

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Having already had a child I have managed to find some inner belief that we actually know what we are doing and those frantic midnight Google searches are now firmly a thing of the past, thankfully!

And whether a new mum or not, living away from family and friends can come with its challenges, and even if you are graced by the presence of visitors to ‘help out,’ it can still be rather overwhelming to feel the need to entertain them, help them work your washing machine, and for me, juggle a toddler, a newborn, and two dogs all at the same time.

Of course we are always grateful of help, and my best advice to any fellow mum? Take any help you can get!

But as we do all live away from our homes, what have we in Doha in terms of a support network for mums?

You may have heard of Doha Mums - a thriving community of, you guessed it, passionate mums from all over the world living right here, with a private forum full of advice and support, a calendar bursting with over 90 events and activities a month

ranging from playgroups, coffee catch-ups, spa days, cooking classes, and even mums’ nights out (we like the sound of that!).

Doha Mums also has their very own children’s library with over 6,000 catalogued books perfect for the little ones, and a Facebook page that updates us on new baby classes and discounts at many retailers, not to forget just general tips and tricks. It’s a must for a mum in our town!

If you happen to live on The Pearl, there are also several mummy groups to be involved in or simply follow on social media, such as Mums from The Pearl and The Pearl Ladies Networking Page, to name a few. They provide up-to-the-minute news on events, including our personal favourite pop-up play group called Little Softies that happens at random notice.

A strong tribe of mums is what can help us through the long days and sometimes even longer nights, and as our babies grow fast and begin to walk, it’s memorable to share these milestones with others on the same path as ourselves. Often this leads to lifelong friendships being moulded in this place we call our home away from home.

Until next time, hug your babies tight and smile at the miracle that is life! n

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DOHA COLLEGE What do you want to be when you grow up?

Words by Dr Steffen Sommer, Principal, Doha College

This must be one of the questions we all ask our children, from the time they begin forming an idea that people around them do different jobs, right up to the alldefining moment when it comes to choosing a career.

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ociety used to often define a person by what they did for a living, so much so that occupations form a large pool of surnames such as “Potter,” “Smith,” or “Mason.”

Today’s world has seen such diversification and developed such narrow job niches, we can’t be certain that no one will ever be introduced to us as “Mrs. Application Support Analyst.”

The wider the gap between the experience of parents who once entered the labour market and that of today’s school leavers, the more daunting the concept of career choice can become. Architecture alone now has 16 specialisations, while engineering and medicine have countless more.

It is therefore becoming clearer that the focus in choosing a career should centre less on a specific occupation, and more on a set of skills that harmonise with a young person’s strengths, aspirations, and personality.

As “career paths” broaden into “career boulevards”, we offer Doha College students a variety of ways

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that help their understanding of what the job market looks like, how university courses meet demands (current and forecast), and how a choice can align most closely with the student’s unique combination of assets and ambitions.

The recent Medical Conference, held on February 4 at Doha College, is one such opportunity to get Sixth Form students to sample what the experience of a medical researcher might be.

Young students from across Qatar researched and presented subjects such as “Not your typical flu – The Epidemic of Zika” and “Treating Alzheimer’s disease” to a panel of experts from Hamad Medical Corporation and Elite Medical Center.

Work experience, career counselling, internships, workshops, enhanced curriculum activities, and other such tools are all on offer at Doha College as well.

For students aspiring to flourish in the performing arts, Doha College stages numerous productions, recitals, exhibitions, and other opportunities to showcase their work and build up material for their portfolios.

One last consideration, to complement the others, is flexibility. For all the good advice out there, for all the reasoning put in, there may be instances where the choice proves to not be the right one after all.

Such an undertaking, and the work that went into it, will be a good indicator to the students on whether they can envisage doing it for the rest of their lives, or perhaps explore an alternative.

Deep reactions may arise: “What about the efforts and money spent so far?”, “Our family have been doctors for generations!”, “She would have made a stellar lawyer!”

Other initiatives bring students out of their classrooms and into real life working environments.

“Take your child to school” day is now a fixture in the Doha College calendar. It takes students into studios, hospitals, airports, refineries, hotels, processing plants, and other places where they get to experience first-hand the unseen facets of these professions.

While such decisions are ultimately deeply personal, the truth is that someone can only excel at what they love doing, and the revelation of what they love may take some searching.

Oftentimes, the perception of what a career is like is quite different from the actual experience of it. For example, a pharmacology researcher may start out by testing thousands of sample batches and tediously inputting ranges of similar data into software – a far cry from what they may have pictured. Creating a realistic image of a profession and revealing aspects normally visible to insiders only is therefore a must.

As Confucius eloquently said: “Choose a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.” Growth mindset and readiness for change are therefore attributes that we must instil and nurture in the young generation. n

Bilal Pearl Suites Beautiful fully furnished apartments set in luxurious surroundings.

Options range from a studio up to a 4 bedroomed home. The tower also features a beautifully styled pool and BBQ area, a state of the art gym plus sauna. Our in-house service and maintenance make this the perfect place to live.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar • marketing@ahbqatar.com • www.ahbqatar.com • Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

NEW BILAL STUDIOS STUDIOS & 1 BED APARTMENTS

The stylish tower offers fullyfurnished properties with facilities which include a well-equipped gym, outdoor rooftop swimming pool, a sundeck, 24-hour security and concierge. This is ideally situated near Souq Waqif and Grand Hamad St. offering a fantastic living experience.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar marketing@ahbqatar.com www.ahbqatar.com Tel: 4442 8877 • 4441 1881 Mobile: 3378 7871

FASHION & LUXURY

Max Mara with

Gigi Hadid present stylish shades in a new eyewear collection

An exquisite blend of trendy yet feminine avant-garde styling, the new Lina II sunglasses are a tribute to the celebrated architect Lina Bo Bardi who inspired the mood of the new Max Mara SS 2017 Fashion Show, which was all about tropical notes and architectural cuts.

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ot off the Spring/Summer 2017 catwalk, the new Lina II sunglasses have a unique square-shaped front with acetate spoilers on both sides of the lenses, serving as a fine yet functional architectural detail connecting the front to the acetate temples.

The colour palette explores natural hues of Havana with brown lenses, Havana-ivory with brown lenses, and beige with grey lenses, accompanied by timeless shades of black with grey lenses and blue with air force blue lenses.

This style features skillfully crafted lenses that are reminiscent of the way architect Lina Bo Bardi used glass in her works, such as in the Glass House in São Paulo. Similar to the glass in Bo Bardi’s architecture, the lenses are left free to give shape to the front, becoming the focus of attention.

Lastly, the Prism detail – the signature element of Max Mara’s eyewear collections – is now reinterpreted as a sparkling jewel that adorns and illuminates the temples.

Inspired by a perfect union of round and square shapes, the signature Prism detail reflects the harmonic balance between the different and complementary multifaceted aspects of the Max Mara woman: femininity and concreteness, aesthetics and functionality, instinct and rationality n

The brand “discovered” supermodel Gigi Hadid in February 2014 when she was chosen to open the FW15 show inspired by Marilyn Monroe.

Since then, she has been involved in many big projects of Max Mara including hosting the BoBag launch event in September 2016.

The supermodel reconfirms her “love story” with the famous maison as the protagonist of the Max Mara Accessories campaign for the Spring 2017 season, shot

by Steven Meisel.

Visit world.maxmara.com for more.

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iscover a luxury ready-to-wear label that draws inspiration from art,

architecture, and global culture. Their straight-lined designs exude elegant sophistication and make a refined statement that beautifies women and glorifies their personality.

The Bouguessa Fall-Winter 2017 collection is equally classic and modern, exploring new trends while introducing a deeper, more intense colour range and playing with textures to generate contrast.

The architectural clean lines, elegant velvets, and contemporary tailored cuts tell the story of refined luxury dressing for modern women.

The designers’ inspiration? Seen from the Bouguessa studio in downtown Dubai at late hours, the mystical hues and lights in the urban oasis of skyscrapers that shape the city’s nocturnal skyline became the starting point of this collection.

For those who insist on only the best, Bouguessa’s high quality fibers and elaborate craftsmanship represent the highest standards while bringing a spirit of lightness to create a fresh and minimal fashion identity

Items are exclusively available at Per Lei Couture outlet in The Pearl Qatar.

Discover the rest of the collection at www. bouguessa.com.

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FASHION & LUXURY

Bags toLove Karl Lagerfeld’s Metal Signature SS17 Bag Collection

One of the world’s most celebrated designers brings his aspirational and cutting-edge style to his latest collection of bags and leather accessories.

Introducing a new icon – the K/Metal Signature. This luxe range translates Karl Lagerfeld’s signature into a hardware plaque, adding a striking design element to the variety of bags and small accessories available in the all-leather collection.

Versatile shoppers, take-everywhere pouches, functional wallets, and elegant baguette bags in staple Karl Lagerfeld shapes have been given the Signature treatment. Black, garnet, and travertine make up the colour palette of these must-have maple leather styles.

The K/Metal Signature line fuses the aesthetic hallmarks of the Karl Lagerfeld brand: iconic design with a dash of irreverence.

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M •A •C

RETRO MATTE LIQUID LIPCOLOUR

For those who prefer timeless glamour to all-out flash, matte reigns supreme.

The M∙A∙C innovation on this classic texture is back with 12 new saturated shades of retro matte liquid lipcolour in on-trend muted and deep tones.

Each promise one thing: a big splash of colour in a liquid-suede finish that's impossible to forget.

To know more about the collection, visit www.maccosmetics-me.com

FASHION & LUXURY

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa

Beacon of health care Interview by Hairiya Santos

With Qatar now progressively becoming a hub for tourism and sports, it is essential to lay a stable environment for the growth and expansion of the healthcare and wellness industry. QH talks to a major player in the industry about his ideas on medical tourism and the healthcare boutique concept.

Mr. Rashad Hassan Al Moosa is the Joint Managing Director, Partner, and Member of the Board of Gulf Drug and COO of Arabian Home Healthcare.

His business expertise of more than a decade and profound insights developed through years of being a healthcare provider has led him to assume an important role and invest in innovative ventures for the growth of medical tourism in Qatar and across the Middle East.

QH: Can you share something about yourself, as a regular person and as a successful entrepreneur? What is the secret ingredient that you have in reaching the stature you now enjoy in business?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: There is no “onesize fits all” solution for success. My advice is to listen more and not to jump to conclusions before understating the situation. Success is a combination of hard intelligent work, paying attention to details, and understanding your environment. It is also important to remember that failures shouldn’t demotivate you as the business life is full of learning curves that are essential for your growth.

QH: How do you maintain a healthy and well-disciplined lifestyle?

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Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: Maintaining a healthy and well-disciplined life is a key factor for any type of success you pursue. I start my day as early as possible, usually at 5:00 AM, have a healthy breakfast, and see my three children off to school.

I am usually the first person at the office and the last to leave. I make it a point to exercise at least three hours a week, because you need a healthy body to develop a healthy mind. Rest, of course, is essential. I rest at least one day a week and balance that with family time.

QH: You seem to have revolved your business dealings and career around the healthcare industry. Why is that? What’s in it that interests you?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: As the saying goes: “Do what you know best.” My father began his career as a doctor in the UAE during the late 1960's. I was born into the industry and raised to understand the ins and outs of it as well as develop a sense of passion towards the industry.

While continuing almost 50 years of Gulf Drug’s family business legacy, it is natural that my business interests will revolve around the healthcare domain. Nevertheless, my ultimate goal is to bring change to this industry and

QH: What guidelines do you set for brands to measure up to before they can be considered for the boutique?

change the way healthcare is perceived.

QH: In your own opinion, how does the Qatari public value healthcare as a whole?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: The Qatari population and their esteemed guests value healthcare very highly, as they all pursue a healthy lifestyle and seek the best for their family and themselves. As it stands today, Qatar enjoys an extremely high level of healthcare quality provided by the Supreme Healthcare Counsel and related agencies. Because we recognize the importance of wellness and health for Qatari people, we decided to launch our innovative concept in Doha first.

QH: How do you plan to revolutionize the way the healthcare industry is perceived in Qatar?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: Perception plays a major role in how we evaluate experiences. We aim to give a very positive experience across all our outlets, keeping the customer in mind at all times, and ensuring that they get the ultimate experience.

QH: What is your insight about medical tourism in Qatar? How do you plan to contribute to its development and promotion, both locally and internationally?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: Medical tourism is a multi-billion dollar industry; it is still in its infancy but with the right long-term planning and strategic investments from both the private and public sectors, it can become an important source of income to the local economy within one to two decades.

It may take some time and a lot of resources to become a trusted and established player in

this industry, but it is certainly forthcoming. We are working hard towards contributing to this transformation and ensuring that residents, expatriates, and visitors receive the best services, with their requirements always put first by the healthcare provider.

QH: You just opened the first luxury wellness boutique in Qatar, the Pharmakeia Luxury Wellness Boutique. Why in Qatar? What is the concept behind a ‘luxury wellness boutique’?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: The Pharmakeia boutique is a new concept that will revolutionize the way healthcare industry is perceived. Today's customer is well informed, demands service, needs to be comfortable, and wants to invest in quality.

Customers are aspirational; they want to feel special. When we were working on developing the Pharmakeia concept, our focus was purely on our clientele.

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: We have a strict set of guidelines in place with an advisory board from six countries responsible for identifying the right product lines that will bring add value to our customers. The basic criteria are that the product has to deliver what it promises, be luxurious, unique, and be consistently in the market.

We will be launching new luxurious natural organic brands that are not yet available in Qatar throughout this year, to provide our health-conscious customers with the best products the industry has to offer.

QH: What do you want Pharmakeia to be well known for? What is your long-term vision for it?

Rashad Hassan Al Moosa: We created a perfect blend of beauty, wellness, and healthcare under one umbrella that offers the element of luxury and exclusivity in every product or service we offer. Our mission is to become the authority in luxury wellness retail internationally and we will ensure that our brand equity is robust and reliable decades ahead. n

We believe that wellness comes from within and from the way you are being treated. We are customer-centric, and our luxury retail experts work hard to ensure that our visitors are well taken care of and celebrated during their perfect experience at Pharmakeia. Our boutique is designed for the customer by the customer to delight in a unique and natural environment.

Pharmakeia is a global concept that starts its journey in the Middle East. We believe that Qatar is the best place for our brand inception as it provides us with a unique and diverse customer base from a multitude of nations and cultures. The Qatari consumer has one of the highest expectations in the world from a luxury and quality service point of view, expectations that we plan not only to meet, but to exceed.

Website: www.pharmakeia.me Facebook: @PharmakeiaME Instagram: @PharmakeiaME

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MODERN MUSE LE ROUGE GLOSS A NEW FRAGRANCE

BY ESTÉE LAUDER

Shine On. Be An Inspiration.

When red is not enough, add gloss. Estée Lauder unveils Modern Muse Le Rouge Gloss – a bold, new fragrance inspired by a sexy red, lacquered vinyl that provocatively invigorates all the senses. Flushed in a brilliant red gloss, Modern Muse Le Rouge Gloss brings an edge of charged sensuality and high shine to capture a new and daring facet of the Modern Muse woman. Le Rouge Gloss scent embodies bold, intensely seductive femininity.

For more, visit www.esteelauder-me.com

FASHION & LUXURY

PORSCHE PANAMERA Perfection and performance on the road QH had the chance to test-drive the all-new Porsche Panamera in an amazing road tour around the Emirate of Dubai to demonstrate the abilities of the the Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo to further extend the boundaries between ambitious sports car and comfortable sedan.

Words by Marian Nagy

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lose to Jumeirah Mosque and the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre is the Nikki Beach Resort and Spa, a brandnew hotel a bit far from the city crowd so you can enjoy a perfect relaxing atmosphere in its 132 fullyequipped rooms with complete amenities, swimming pool, and a spa.

It was where we were greeted by the Porsche staff to their launch and drive event for the new models.

The team was very accommodating and more than knowledgeable about their vehicles.

We came eager to discover the redeveloped engines, reinterpreted design, and new range of assistance systems of the second generation of Porsche’s luxury four-door saloon, which is offered with the tagline, “Courage changes everything.”

During the launch event, Deesch Papke, Chief Executive Officer of Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, commented: “We are proud to showcase this executive saloon that typifies Porsche’s operating philosophy.

“The undeniable performance of the new engines, introduction of a futuristic interior concept, and range of driver-focused assistant systems make this four-door sports car an embodiment of comfort, performance and luxury presented in the most beautiful form. The new Panamera model range demonstrates that we don’t just talk about segmentleading cars, we produce them.”

Also commenting on the new model, Dr. Gernot Döllner, Vice President, Product Line Panamera, Porsche AG said: “Our aim for the second generation of the Panamera was to enhance an already

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successful concept of a saloon that bridges the gap between sports car and passenger car. Once again our development teams have successfully mastered the challenge.

a completely new front-end, with a crossbar in the radiator grille emphasising the car’s width and an arrow-shaped bonnet that features a prominently contoured powerdome.

“The new model range is infused with the unique characteristics of typical Porsche performance and design DNA, whilst also providing a generous amount of space for four people. It is a model fuelled by the power of opposites and we truly believe it is the best car you can find in its segment.”

The Panamera’s wheelbase has been increased by 30 mm while the front wheels have been shifted forward, giving the car a more powerful appearance.

LED headlights with four-point LED daytime running lights and larger wheels also add to a sporty look.

The following day was all excitement. Each of us got inside their test drive car and followed their assigned pilot for the incredible tour.

By the time I got in my lovely white Panamera I was more than impressed with the elegant and luxurious design and the extreme stability of the car even at the highest speed.

A new design philosophy The unique concept and performance credentials of Porsche’s latest four-door sports car are reflected in a new design which creates a stylistic link to the brand’s iconic 911. The sharpened exterior includes

The rear of the vehicle now further highlights the Panamera’s four-door coupé credentials, distinguishing it from a conventional saloon.

Features such as the three-dimensional LED rear lights that include integrated four-point brake lights, interconnected by a narrow LED strip, result in a distinctive night design.

Futuristic interior concept With a redesigned interior, the new Panamera has been reinterpreted for the future through black panel surfaces and interactive displays which combine to present an intuitive user interface similar to a smartphone.

For the benefit of the driver, front and rear passengers, classic hard keys and conventional instruments have been significantly reduced. Instead they have been replaced with touch-sensitive panels and individually configurable displays which take centre stage in the new Porsche Advanced Cockpit.

Panamera 4S specifications The 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo engine of the Panamera 4S is a completely new development which produces 440 horsepower (hp) available at 5,650 revolutions per minute (rpm) and represents a 20 hp increase from the previous model.

The gearshift console between the driver and the front passenger is dominated by the 12.3inch touchscreen of the new generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which the driver and front passenger can configure individually. Naturally featured in the PCM are Porsche Connect, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay, and a new voice control system that responds to natural language input.

Reaching 100 kilometres per hour (km/h) in just 4.4 seconds (4.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package), the Panamera 4S has a top speed of 289 km/h.

Spacious layout and innovative options In addition, the Porsche Panamera offers the best layout variability of any model in the luxury class, making it the most practical for everyday use with a 40:20:40 split of the folding rear bench backrests (495 to 1,304 litres of luggage capacity).

A NEDC combined fuel consumption of 8.2 – 8.1 l/100 kilometres (km) (186 – 184 gram/km carbon dioxide) means that the new Panamera 4S offers a fuel saving of up to 1.0 l/100 km or 11 per cent in comparison to the first generation model.

Panamera Turbo specifications With its powerful petrol engine, the Panamera Turbo’s new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 develops 550 hp at 5,750 rpm, with a maximum torque of 770 Newton metres (Nm) between 1,960 and 4,500 rpm.

The Sport Chrono Package When equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package featuring launch control, engine response can be further increased using the mode switch on the steering wheel. It was first introduced in the Porsche 918 Spyder, and is an intuitively operated rotary ring, which can be used to activate one of four driving modes (Normal, Sport, Sport Plus or Individual). Located at the centre of the switch is the Sport Response Button. It can be used to free up the maximum power potential of the Panamera at the press of a button.

Standard and optional assistance systems The Panamera is equipped with a range of standard and optional assistance systems which make life while driving more convenient as well as safer.

Night Vision Assistant is a new feature which uses a thermal imaging camera to detect people and large animals by displaying a colour-highlighted warning indicator in the cockpit. If the new LED Matrix Headlights (with 84 image points) are selected, people beyond the visual range of the dipped beam headlight are also illuminated briefly, should they be in the computed driving corridor, enabling the driver to avoid critical situations in advance.

Looking further ahead is the new Porsche InnoDrive system, which includes adaptive cruise control.

Based on navigation data and signals from radar and video sensors, it computes and activates the optimal acceleration and deceleration rates as well as gear selections and coasting phases for the next three kilometres. In doing so, this electronic co-pilot automatically takes bends, inclines, and speed limits into account.

Raising the comfort experience of the Panamera to an entirely new level are new equipment options such as the panoramic tilt roof, massage seats, ambient lighting, and a 3D high-end sound system from Burmester.

It has 30 hp more than its predecessor as well as a torque increase of 70 Nm. The new Panamera Turbo accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, whilst with the Sport Chrono Package the sprint time is down to 3.6 seconds.

New engines and transmission New six- and eight-cylinder twin-turbo engines have been introduced to produce more power whilst significantly improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. The brand’s first eight-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission enables an even better gear ratio spread alongside a reduction in fuel consumption.

The new Turbo model features a top speed of 306 km/h and a power-to-weight ratio of just 3.6 kilograms/hp. A lower combined fuel consumption of 9.4 – 9.3 l/100 km, is up to 1.1 l/100 km less than that of the previous model (NEDC), therefore equating to carbon dioxide emissions of 214 – 212 grams/km.

Presenting a harmonious balance between dynamic driving, comfort and luxury, the new Panamera has been developed for sports car drivers who appreciate four doors and four seats. With a new lap record of seven minutes and 38 seconds on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit, the Panamera Turbo has already demonstrated the undeniable performance heights Porsche has reached with this new model.

Thank you, Porsche, for such a formidable experience.

To experience all this yourself, book your test drive of the all-new Porsche Panamera today. n

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Single Statement:

KAMUSHKI ANINE BING Mariam and Dania of Kamushki take design cues from their travels and cultural heritage. Anine Bing offers pieces that are current and timeless. Their striking and glamorous single statement ear danglers shine bright even when worn solo.

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HOMECENTRE ng

Presenti

INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Looking for change of décor with the change of season? As we move from winter toward spring, surround yourself with exotic and contemporary styles that reflect your personality.

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his year’s interior design styles mirror global trends in home furnishing by featuring quality materials, impeccable design details,

and colourful palettes.

These concept ideas have made interior home designing much easier, offering coordinated craftsmanship for unrivalled comfort and style.

Home Centre’s latest range of interior products are organized into Living, Dining, Sleeping, and Playing solutions. New additions this year are the modular and mix-and-match solutions like the Blend table, Signature sofa, Stellar bed, and Infinity wardrobe, which enable customers to select components that suit their spaces and personalities.

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This year, Home Centre has introduced three breathtaking collections – Arabesque, Marrakesh, and Majestic - each inspired by distinctive designs and curated to create beautiful and harmonious homes.

These collections offer coordinated looks to bring a sense of style and unity to your surroundings: Arabesque Collection takes inspiration from Arabic design, blending unique silhouettes with intricate patterned details. Its calming pastels and high-gloss finishes create a traditional range with a distinctly modern sensibility.

Marrakesh Collection evokes a tranquil, serene ambience. This is influenced by sophisticated

Majestic Collection brings graceful atmosphere to your home through a selection of timeless furnishings, gold finishes, and beveled mirror detailing for a look of pure luxury.

Designed to meet customers’ evolving style and

Print catalogues available in-store, interactive catalogues online.

Website: www.homecentre.com Facebook: facebook.com/homecentrestores

Arabic patterns, featuring warm wood accents and

design requirements, the catalogue offers home

Twitter: @askhomecentre

calming neutrals tones that give it a refined and

design tips, style advice, and practical suggestions

Instagram: @homecentrestores

contemporary feel.

for the discerning homemaker. n

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FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

DOHA MARRIOTT Noodles & Dumplings

Sat: From 6:30pm – 11:30pm. 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 every Saturday! Enjoy unlimited dumplings & noodles for QR100 per person or add QR60 per person for an unlimited draft beverage package! For reservations, call 4429 8499.

ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL WEST BAY Thursday Couscous Fiesta at Al Dirwandi Restaurant

March 30. From 7pm-11:30pm. Enjoy the different Couscous flavors of the North African countries on a sumptuous buffet along with a variety of appetizers and traditional dessert and tea accompanied by live oud entertainment player. QR 100 including soft drinks.

For more details, contact 4403 8727 or e-mail: H9537-FB@accor.com

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Mother's Day

March 21. From 6:30 pm to 11pm. Celebrate Mother’s Day at Al Liwan Restaurant, the dinner buffet will feature all of the delicious standards that Mom will truly love. Price is at QR 250 exclusive of beverages. Half price for kids ages from 6 to 12 years old. For more information, call 4425 6666.

ST. REGIS DOHA Gordon’s Supper Menu SANTA MONICA BREAKFAST CLUB

Daily. West Coast comfort food brought to Gulf shores with a healthy kick and a SoCal Smile. A new introduction to the Doha vibrant scene, Santa Monica Breakfast Club is bringing the laid-back Santa Monica vibes along with a new energy boost to the city. Santa Monica Breakfast Club, transports the essence of the iconic LA County, known to boasts a friendly, social, open-minded environment and a healthy living mentality.

Feel like having comfort food any time of day in a chilled-out place? Our concept, like both our staff and menu is FUN! Join us in the only place where you can forget about work, kick-back, be yourself, and socialize amongst friends. Everyone is welcome at Santa Monica Breakfast Club, we invite you to come as yourself and let us treat you to a slice of SoCal atmosphere Why not have breakfast all day every day?! Santa Monica Breakfast Club geolocation is 25°22'38.1"N, 51°31'40.8"E. Website is SantaMonicaBreakfast.Club, phone number is 77982395 and email is realness@santamonicabreakfast.club

Mon. to Sat. Gordon Ramsay the Mediterranean.

Come to the destination of exceptional cuisine lovers to savour an early dinner featuring a special 3course set menu with a glass of spirits for only QR 195. The new menu blends the finest flavours, textures and ingredients in a fresh new way and the menu changes daily as well as from season to season. Timings: Monday to Saturday (closed on Sunday) from 6 pm to 11 pm, and Friday from 6:30pm to 11pm. For reservations, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

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FOOD & DINING

THREE SIXTY RESTAURANT A REVOLVING TREAT Words by Nikki Palmero Pictures by Jessie Palanca

The Torch Doha Hotel, an Olympic torch-shaped skyscraper at the Aspire Zone Complex and part of Doha's Sports City, invited QH to experience Mediterranean cuisine while enjoying a 360-degree panoramic view of Doha in one of their most luxurious restaurants.

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pon leaving my car key with an efficient valet at the hotel entrance of The Torch Doha, my friends and I met at the hotel's lobby where one wouldn’t at all mind waiting and biding some time with reading material in hand, or even none at all and just simply relaxing and taking in the impressively beautiful arrangement of its seating area.

After exchanging our usual banter and pleasantries we then proceeded to the Three Sixty Restaurant located at the 47th floor. The Three Sixty is a must-

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see for its uniquely modern design. It is the only revolving restaurant in Doha that offers delicious cuisine and breathtaking panoramic views.

Once inside the restaurant, our small group of three was ushered to a table by a friendly staffer. We were joined by Ms. Uriel Llagas, the Torch Doha's Communication and Digital Marketing Coordinator who was not only a welcoming host but amiable as well.

Truth be told, I was the only first-timer there, unlike my companions who had been to the Torch Doha's other restaurants: Sky Lounge, Flying Carpet, Tea Garden, and the Panorama which are all as amazing as the Three Sixty. Still, they were both as fascinated and captivated as I, looking out from inside the curtain walls at the vast expanse of Doha skyline. We marveled at the sights of the Aspire Park with its amazingly huge and lush park complete with sports grounds, big lakes, and an expanse of green space.

A few minutes later as the revolving floor turned, our eyes also lit upon the enormous Khalifa International Stadium, which can seat tens of thousands, as it nears the completion of its unique, innovative, and splendid architectural design and world class style enhancements that are being prepared for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. These are among the many sights guests will enjoy whilst atop The Torch Doha.

However, we came to savor not only the sights but also an enjoyable dining experience, so our attention turned to the food. For starters, we were served Bruschetta - fresh home-made toasted country bread with ripe tomato salsa and basil pesto along with tasty Foie Gras Mousse and wild mushroom duxelle, olives, and eggplant dip. Another appetizer was the melt-in-your mouth Smoked Salmon Carpaccio garnished with green lettuce, cherry tomatoes, avocado, fried capers, cream cheese, and citrus dressing.

To cap off our technically fabulous meal, for dessert we had the delectable Cheese and Red Velvet Cake, a Warm Chocolate Cake with vanilla ice cream on top with mixed berry coulis, and the Ginger Crème Brulee with Lemon Verbena Ice Cream & fresh berries to the delight of everyone's sweet tooth.

The atmosphere inside the restaurant as well as the stunning view outside matched the delicious and satisfyingly good food we had.

At this point Uriel, who had become our instant best friend on this particular afternoon, offered to tour us around the many fabulous amenities and dining options of the Torch Doha.

She toured us tirelessly through the hotel gym, sauna, the Sky Lounge at the 51st floor of the hotel, and the high-end Tea Garden at the 21st floor which, like the Three Sixty, offers guests a spectacular view while enjoying a gourmet meal or sipping tea. We also visited the infinity pool on the 19th floor where hotel guests can bask under the sun.

We had a truly a superb experience at Three Sixty Restaurant and altogether at the Torch Doha Hotel.

Doha residents and travelers alike ought to try the excellent experience Three Sixty has to offer. n Address: Al Waab Street, Doha Reservations: +974 4446 5600 Website: www.thetorchdoha.com Email: restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com

Next served was a three-course main menu skillfully prepared by Specialty Chef Chatura Weerasekara.

First, flavorful Veal Milanese - a breaded veal chop that was crisp outside but tender inside with enough juiciness and pronounced meatiness, topped with wild mushroom ragout & baby rocca salad. Then came the tasty pan-seared Sea Bass Fillet dabbed with artichoke puree, basil sauce, and balsamic caviar, dressed with saffron potato, broccoli, and tomato. Last but never the least was the richly flavored, slow-cooked Venison Fillet with caramelized baby vegetables, baba ghanoush, nuts, and peaches. All three were exceptionally good to taste.

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SPECIAL FOODPROMOTION & DINING

QH Chef for a Day Challenge

LUCA CROCCO

Images by Jessie Palanca

QH presents a new space in our magazine where someone will be chosen to be a Chef for a Day. He or she will work under the keen eye of a master chef, cooking from carefully selected recipes that you can prepare at home.

AlRayyan Hotel Doha General Manager Luca Crocco is the first ever to accept the challenge and shares his family recipes, becoming Mezzo Restaurant Chef for a Day.

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lRayyan Hotel Doha has one of the best Italian restaurants in town – Mezzo – and this stylish place also has among the friendliest staffers I have ever met. The team works together and everyone involved has high standards and wide knowledge about food and service.

For these reasons we chose the AlRayyan team for our first challenge, and GM Luca Crocco was more than happy to be our star of the day.

Let’s begin the challenge!

Luca is being monitored by Executive Chef Shaik Aslam Basha, who is taking his role very seriously and expects nothing less than a professional three-set menu from Luca.

Will Luca reach Chef Shaik’s expectations?

Crafting a menu Chef Luca selects ingredients for the following dishes: Starter: Landscape of Tomato, Main: Veal Milanese and Dessert: Tiramisu Luca is very focused on his dishes. If you didn’t know otherwise, you would think Luca really is a chef. He applies his knowledge and family secrets to get the best out of his Italian set menu. I taste the Landscape of Tomato and it is delicious,

smartly seasoned with the cheese giving it a unique Mediterranean touch.

Next to the table is the Veal Milanese. It is cooked to perfection. Luca explains that the secret is to have the veal sliced as thin as you can. The meat melts in your mouth and you can’t get enough. Luca recommends squeezing some lemon juice over the Milanese. Bravo, Luca! I am genuinely surprised by his skills.

Last comes the Tiramisu. We are all waiting for this moment. Luca is meticulous and careful, even choosing organic eggs for this recipe. The result is absolutely fantastic. Mascarpone, biscuits, and coffee flavours mix wonderfully for a great experience.

After this well-selected and executed menu, we all declare Luca a five-star chef.

But Chef Shaik is the one who will judge the dishes and we wait for his decision.

His answer is ‘yes’. GM Luca Crocco wins the QH Chef for a Day Challenge!

We requested Chef Luca to share his recipes with you so you can try it at home. Thank you to the AlRayyan team, GM Luca, and Chef Shaik for being part of this new space in QH magazine.

We are definitely returning to Mezzo restaurant for the best of Italian cuisine.

LANDSCAPE OF TOMATO (Burrata cheese, multicolored cherry tomato, rucola, and balsamic vinegar) Ingredients: •1 piece Italian Burrata cheese • 1 piece Roma tomato • 1 piece Red cherry tomato • 1 piece Green tomato • 3 to 4 pcs. Yellow cherry tomato • 100 g Rucola (wild rocket leaves) • 3 to 4 pcs. Brown cherry tomato • 4-5 leaves Fresh basil • 1 piece Yellow tomato • 2 tbsp. Balsamic vinegar • 3 tbsp.

Extra virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste Method: Cut the cherry and roma tomatoes in halves, the green and yellow tomatoes into quarters.

Marinate the tomatoes with fresh basil chiffonade, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper.

Dress the rucola with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Place the marinated tomatoes in a plate and put the rucola salad on top.

Finally, place the whole burrata on top of the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

VEAL MILANESE Ingredients (serves 3): • 6 veal escalopes (80-110 g each) • 2 large eggs • 2 rounded tbsp. flour • 200 g white breadcrumbs • 50 g butter • 4 tbsp. olive oil • 100 g unsalted butter • 2 lemons, quartered, to serve • salt and freshly milled black pepper • 100 g rocket leaves• 500g French fries Equipment: Large, 10 inch (25.5 cm) frying pan.

Method: Start by making the veal escalopes thinner by pounding the pieces of meat. To do so, place them between two large pieces of cling film and gently pound them, using a meat pounder (if you don’t have one use a rolling pin), but be careful not to break the meat – it just needs to be stretched a little.

Next, break the eggs into a shallow dish and lightly whisk them together with some salt and freshly milled black pepper. Take the meat and roll it into refined flour, then dip it into the egg mixture and immediately cover with the breadcrumbs, shaking off the excess breadcrumbs as you go and transferring the escalopes to another clean plate.

Heat half the butter and oil in the frying pan. When sizzling hot, add three escalopes to the pan. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side or till crisp and golden brown.

Then drain on kitchen paper and keep warm in a low oven while you cook the other escalopes.

Before serving, dress and toss the rocket salad with salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, and Italian extra virgin olive oil. Accompany with French fries and lemons to squeeze over.

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FOOD & DINING TIRAMISU Ingredients (serves 10): • 250ml hot brewed espresso or very strong coffee • 10 large Qatari egg yolks • 250 g (or 1 large spoon per egg) caster sugar • 500 g mascarpone cheese (about 1 1/ cups) • 400 g Savoiardi Italian ladyfingers • 30 g cocoa powder for dusting Method: Prepare the filling: Vigorously whisk egg yolks and sugar in a bowl till sugar has melted and the mixture is a nice off white color. Gently add mascarpone to the egg mixture to avoid any lumps.

Assemble: Prepare hot espresso coffee on the side in a deep container. Spread evenly 2 full spoons of mascarpone filling on the base of a shallow, flat dish. Dip ladyfingers very quickly into the coffee and turn them 360 degrees. Line them at the base of the dish to create the first layer. (You might find that you need to break a few biscuits into pieces to fit them in the dish).

Spoon half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers and spread it into an even layer. Then dip the remaining ladyfingers very quickly into hot coffee and arrange a second layer over filling.

Spoon the remaining mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Cover with cling film wrap and refrigerate for 6 hours.

When ready to serve, dust with cocoa powder. Leave it out at room temperature about 20 minutes before serving. (Tiramisu can be chilled up to two days, but no longer.) Make sure to always keep it refrigerated

Venue: AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection

by Hilton Hotel Address: Mall of Qatar, Al Rayyan, Doha Reservations: +974 4489 9000 Website: www.curiocollection3.hilton.com

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About AlRayyan Hotel Located in the upscale neighbourhood of AlRayyan and directly connected to the Mall of Qatar, the AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton offers a choice of 201 elegant guest rooms and suites featuring timeless decor along with floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized bathrooms, and walk-in rain showers.

The stylish and spacious Presidential Suite boasts two bedrooms, large living and dining areas, a walk-in closet, and a full-sized hammam in the marble bathroom.

The chic, one-of-a-kind hotel is just steps away from Al-Rayyan Sports Club, and a short drive from Qatar National Convention Centre, Sheikh Faisal Museum, and Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club.

About Luca Crocco Before devoting his efforts to the opening of the first Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel in the Middle East, Crocco served as general manager for six years of the popular Hilton Prague Old town. The hotel experienced its most successful years during Luca’s period as GM. About Chef Shaik Basha Basha has been part of five pre-opening teams with AlRayyan Hotel Doha. This marks the sixth time he has set up the kitchen department in a brand new hotel. With more than six years’ experience as executive chef and 16 years working in the kitchen, Shaik Basha brings quality, flavour, and freshness to the menus of the AlRayyan Hotel Doha restaurants.

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FOOD & DINING

CABALLEROS STEAK NIGHT

Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Images by Jessie Palanca

music is good and we get our delicious welcome drink with my favourite pao de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread).

With most of the city focusing on the ladies, this superb eatery serving hearty Latin American cuisine stands up for gentlemen with their Caballeros Steak Night every Wednesday. QH tastes the first bites of this special menu.

Tonight we get VIP treatment delivered by Thilina, a Sri Lankan waiter who really understands about Richard Sandoval cuisine and five-star services. If I didn’t ask I would definitely have thought he was born and raised in South America. His knowledge was up to standard and he had a big smile for us every time he approached our table.

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adies and gentlemen, welcome to a night full of taste and a promotion that will indulge your palate with the signature dishes of Chef Richard Sandoval.

I know I had plenty reviews of Toro Toro Restaurant last year, but what can I do if they keep surprising me with fantastic promotions, right? I just can’t resist Toro Toro and I’ll be back as often as I can.

It’s Wednesday evening and we have a table booked for 8:00 PM in one of the best restaurants in Doha.

Greeted by the always polite and professional team of Toro Toro, we were assisted to our table. The

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We had the restaurant’s PR person Mercedes making sure everything was okay and explaining what we were about to experience. Also on hand was operations manager Sasa Dinic, who made us feel even more comfortable with their attention.

What is the Caballeros Steak Night promotion about? If a couple of friends, both gentlemen, want to go out for quality food in a great environment for a good price, then enjoy the unique menu Toro Toro has prepared for you caballeros! It’s also the perfect setting for a business dinner.

Every Wednesday night, choose two cold appetizers, two hot appetizers, Brazilian Picanha (Rodizio Style), two side orders, dessert, and one bottle of house beverage for only QAR 750 for two persons. Don’t you think this is amazing?

Here we go! Starters on the table!

First up is the traditional Guacamole & Tortilla Chips featuring exotic Mexican mashed smoked avocado served with tortilla chips. We also got Sea Bass Tartar, which is coconut marinated sea bass with a unique corn cake topped with coriander. I can only describe this fantastic creation as ‘perfection’.

We were also served two more cold appetizers. I have to confess that the next was my favorite, Pulpo Al Olivo - thin slices of octopus marinated with creamy olive sauce topped with coriander sauce.

The freshness of coriander and the sweet touch of

olive sauce just melts on your mouth. Absolutely gorgeous. This was the best octopus dish I have had so far. The funny thing is that the previous one I also tasted in Toro Toro.

If you think that salad is boring, please check out the Chipotle Salad before any judgment. It’s a tossed salad with lettuce, tomatoes, almonds, and feta cheese dressed with chipotle balsamic dressing.

All the ingredient choices in this salad were so smart. The combination of fresh ingredients and a lovely dressing which moisturizes this salad is just fantastic.

In between cold and hot appetizers, celebrity Executive Chef Bojan Petrovic dropped by our table.

We interview him last year and we know that his skills are very dangerous as we can’t stop eating his food – it’s addictive! He wanted to be sure we were enjoying it. Of course, Chef Bojan, in fact we just couldn’t get enough!

Our table was then decorated with a colorful and delightful collection of hot appetizers. If you love a touch of sweetness on your plate, you need to try Cachapas. It’s a famous Venezuelan sweetcorn pancake stuffed with halloumi cheese and homemade tomato jam. It’s the closest to heaven you can imagine yourself every time you have a bite of this dish.

An explosion of flavours comes along with Chicken Tacos - corn-fed confit chicken with jalapeño aioli, garnished with chicken chicharron, coriander cress, and Shimiji mushrooms. Just wrap everything and taste the enticing combination of international flavours.

The next two appetizers that came along left us speechless. We knew we needed to leave space for Picanha, but we couldn’t stop eating.

Can you imagine the taste of beef cheeks slowcooked for eight hours in chicha morada and red wine and served with creamy polenta? Yes, exactly

- wonderful. That’s how I introduce you to Beef Cheeks.

Rocoto Relleno comes next to the table to indulge our tastebuds. It’s red pepper stuffed with beef oxtail and mushrooms with Aji panca chocolate sauce and creamy crushed potato. This is why why I can never get enough of Toro Toro.

Yes, we were full by this point but nobody could resist the main course: Brazilian Picanha! Served Rodizio Style, you choose how you want your meat done. You can taste the quality of the meat and see the careful way it is prepared.

Along with our Picanha, we had Potatoes Tostones, Mashed Potato, Special Salad, Creamy Spinach, and Steamed Asparagus. Yes, we tried everything. Of course all dishes and sides met Toro Toro standards high-end, quality, and perfection.

We were informed that we were going to enjoy a surprise sweet finale by the chef. He sent over Coconut Paradise. Expect a taste no less than its name. It combines coconut mousse, mango sorbet, and pineapple roti to round out your meal. Indulge in a piece of real paradise, delighting you in every single bite with the sweetness of coconut and freshness of mango and pineapple.

After this lovely evening, I must tell all the gentlemen out there to get your hats on and rush to Toro Toro to enjoy a well-deserved night for caballeros. Ladies, call your two best male friends or book your business meetings there, and share delightful dishes at Toro Toro every Wednesday! n

Address: The Pearl, Masa Malaz Kempinski, Doha Reservations: +974 4035 5101 Email: torotoro@torotorodoha.com Licensed: Yes / Smoking: Yes Hours of Operation: Monday to Wednesday, 7:00 PM-1:00AM; Thursday, 7:00 PM-2AM; Friday, 12:30 PM-2:00 AM; Saturday, 4:00 AM1:00 AM; Sunday, 7:00 AM-12:00 AM.

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FOOD & DINING

Chef Challenge

FOOD WITH A HEART Photography by Jessie Palanca Feature coordinated by Hairiya Santos Star Ingredient: Heart of Artichoke Location: Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Food prepared by Executive Sous Chef Shardul Kulkarni

As part of the QH advocacy for a healthy lifestyle, we challenged Shardul Kulkarni, Executive Sous Chef of Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, to prepare something nutritious that also packs a gourmet punch.

Artichoke Soup, Artichoke and Burrata Bruschetta INGREDIENTS: • 3 cups sun-chokes, cleaned and sliced • 5 pcs. artichokes • ¼ cup butter • 3 cups full fat milk • 3 cups vegetable stock • 8 cloves of garlic • 5 tbsp. olive oil • 1 baguette • 1 burrata • 1 tsp. truffle oil • Salt and pepper to taste METHOD: Melt butter in a pan with 1 tbsp. of oil on medium heat. Add the sliced sun-chokes, half the quantity of artichoke hearts, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover and cook over medium heat until the artichokes are cooked but not colored.

Add the milk and stock. Cover with tight lid and bring to boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Blitz the soup in a blender on high speed and pass it through a fine sieve. Adjust the seasoning.

Brush the garlic cloves with some olive oil and cook in the oven at 120°C until they are very soft. Mash the garlic with a little olive oil and salt.

Cook the remaining artichoke hearts with some stock and butter emulsion over medium heat until they are thoroughly cooked.

Slice the baguette at an angle about 1 cm. thick, drizzle with a little olive oil, and toast in the oven. Once toasted, spread a little of the garlic and garnish with marinated artichoke hearts and burrata.

Froth the soup with a hand blender and pour into a soup bowl. Garnish with drops of truffle oil and the artichoke bruschetta.

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“Artichoke hearts are a versatile vegetable. One of my favourite ingredients, it can be served as a dish in itself for a vegetarian option and can be a great accompaniment for a meat or fish dish.”

Shardul Kulkarni Executive Sous Chef

Seared Salmon, Artichoke Barigoule INGREDIENTS: • 1 salmon fillet • 1 sprig of thyme • 6 globe artichokes, cleaned and halved • 1 carrot, cut in 5mm. dice • ¼ celeriac, cut in 5mm. dice • ¾ cup white wine vinegar or white vinegar • 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and halved • 1 cup chicken stock • 1 tsp. fennel, tied in muslin cloth • 2 pcs. bay leaves • 1 tsp. peppercorn, tied in muslin cloth • ½ cup olive oil 1 tsp. sugar • Salt and pepper to taste METHOD: Clean the salmon fillet and divide it into four equal portions. Put aside the remainder for another use.

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the artichoke hearts and season with a pinch of salt. Cook for a minute, and then add carrot and celeriac; continue cooking for another two to three minutes, making sure they do not color.

Turn the heat up, add ¾ quantity of the vinegar and garlic, and cook until almost dry.

Add the bay leaf, peppercorns and fennel (tied in muslin), chicken stock, and pinch of sugar. Reduce the heat and simmer the artichokes until they are cooked through and the liquid is reduced. Artichokes are cooked when a sharp knife is inserted and there is no resistance.

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Heat oil in a pan over high heat. Place in the seasoned salmon steak, skin side first. Once the skin has become crispy and salmon is cooked half way, turn it over and cook over low heat.

Place the salmon on the plate and dress with the artichoke barigoule.

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FOOD & DINING

Apple Tart, Artichoke Chips INGREDIENTS: • 3 Granny Smith apples • 3 pcs. artichoke hearts • 1 puff pastry sheet • 4 tbsp. apricot jam • 2 tbsp. butter • 2 tbsp. icing sugar • 2 tbsp. caster sugar METHOD Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples into crescent shapes.

Roll the puff pastry about 10 cm. wide and into 0.5 cm. thickness. Cut the puff pastry with a round cutter in individual rounds of about 12 cm. in diameter.

Brush the puff pastry base with a tablespoon of apricot jam and fan the apple slices on top. Sprinkle sugar and add a knob of butter in the middle of the tart.

Bake in the oven at 180°C for about 14 minutes or until the top turns golden and the base of the pastry is cooked.

Slice the artichoke hearts and deep fry them until crisp; drain. Sprinkle generously with icing sugar. You can serve the tart with vanilla ice cream and garnish with the candied artichoke hearts.

Website: marriottmarquisdohadining.com Reservations: +974 4419 5000 Facebook: Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel Instagram: @MarriottMarquisDoha

A US Department of Agriculture study found that artichokes are one of the top vegetables in terms of antioxidant levels. It also provides a good amount of dietary fiber and folic acid, helps stimulate good digestion, regulates blood pressure, and has cancer prevention nutrients and other benefits.

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FOOD & DINING

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. It’s our way of giving the local community a voice within our pages. This month, Ram Castillo samples sumptuous delicacies at the Torch Tea Garden.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

Very nice! I like the cozy feel of the place; and the interior is impressive.

QH: Describe the quality of the food.

Great! For someone like me who really value the quality of food, it's a sure thumbs up!

QH: Could the overall experience be improved?

If so, how?

It would have been excellent if we had the tour on the topmost floor, where the view is the best, but I’m not sure if it’s part of the services. However, the overall experience was very good. Thank you very much, QH, for a different kind of experience. It’s definitely worth recommending! God bless and more power! n

QH: Describe the quality of the service.

QH: What did you order?

Excellent five-star service.

They prepared a set meal for us. I'm not sure about the names but I can recall that the dishes included prawns tempura, beetroot salad, panini, burgers, a sort of feta pizza, lots of desserts (chocolate fudge with ice cream on top, cheese cake, and various sweets) and drinks.

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

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

Its ambience.

For me, the prices are fairly reasonable, given the quality and the service they are providing.

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

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I was with my family which made it very special for me. We had a short tour within the restaurant and had the opportunity of seeing Doha from a different perspective.

Yes. The ambience is very nice, the food is great, and the service is excellent.

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

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.

Website: www.thetorchdoha.com Contact Number: 4446 5600 Email: restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha. com

FOOD & DINING

SUNDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Sangria Night Mykonos. From 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Enjoy the Arabian breeze as you dine by the pool overlooking the sea. Start your night with our secret Sangria recipe. This offer includes unlimited Sangria of your selection paired with a selection of Mediterranean mezze. Cost QR 200 per person. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

MONDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Greek Barbeque Night Mykonos. From 6:30 p.m to 10:30 p.m. Enjoy an extraordinary Greek dining experience complemented by a meat selection, some rustic Greek favorites and end up with our homemade desserts, for only QR 150 per person. For reservations, please call 4484 4919

TUESDAY ANTICA PESA DOHA

Pizza & Birra Night!

Starting at 6 pm to midnight at Antica Pesa Lounge - for only QR 70 you can enjoy 2 refreshing spirits with 1 cheesy Margherita pizza!

DOHA MARRIOTT

Taco Tuesday Salsa Restaurant. From 6:30pm – 11:30pm.

Let’s taco bout it! Come and try our all new Taco promotion! Enjoy a selection of beef, chicken, fish and vegetarian tacos, served with spicy or non-spicy salsa, traditional guacamole, sour cream, Mexican rice and refried beans!

Prices: QR 100 unlimited tacos, add QR 60 for unlimited Mexican Sangria package and add QR 100 for unlimited selected sips package. For reservations, call 4429 8499.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Mother's Day Celebration Coral Restaurant. Celebrate Mother’s Day on March 21 and enjoy a special gift on us.

Mothers dine for free for families of five and above. Enjoy Mother’s Day with a soothing treatment at SPA InterContinental with a 50% off voucher for our a la carte services. Timings: Breakfast from 5:00am to 11:00am / Lunch buffet from 12:30pm to 3:30pm / Friday brunch from 12:30pm to 4:00pm / Saturday brunch from 12:30pm to 3:30pm / Dinner buffet from 7:00pm to 11:30pm. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Dine with Your Mom Seasons Restaurant. Invite your Mom to a tempting themed buffet on Mother’s Day 21st March from 6:30 pm to 11pm, and get one

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Where To Go dinner for free. Price is at QR 165 per person.

For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Pizza, Pasta & Jazz La Veranda. From 7pm to 11:30 pm.

Transform your Tuesday nights with a perfect blend of unlimited classic Italian pizzas and pasta complemented by smooth jazz music.

Price is QR 120 per person, all-you-can eat.

For reservations, call 4485 3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Pancake Mother’s Day Market By Jean- Georges. From 9:30 am to 11:00 am. Mothers it’s your time to get pampered! Head down for a breakfast with an outstanding pancake cooking station for only QR 65, exclusively for mothers. For inquiries and reservations, call 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

wonderful women in our lives. Enjoy a romantic set up at La Veranda and have a taste of a true Italian cuisine. Prices: QR 490 per couple including soft beverages, QR 700 per couple including selected beverages and 50% discount for kids aged 6-12 years and kids below 6 dine for free. For reservations, call 4485 3000, or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Diner Entre Amis La Mer Bistro. From 7pm to 11pm. 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. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Soiree Entrecote Prime. From 6pm to 11pm. Skip being a chef at home and join our Prime grill experience instead for a truly divine experience! Let us take you back to home cooking and good meats.

Enjoy unlimited cuts of rib eye steak along with a salad, sides, signature sauces, and dessert. Price at QR 250 – inclusive of salad bar, unlimited meat prepared a la minute, sides as well as signature sauces, and dessert for a perfect night out! For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Viaje a Protos, a trip to Protos El Faro. March 15, from 7.00 pm – 11.00 pm.

Step into the authentic Spanish restaurant, El Faro and allow us to take you on a journey with a well-balanced 5 course menu paired perfectly with a variation of Protos sips. From cold to hot and savoury to sweet, our chefs and sommeliers welcome you to an evening of fine food and an authentic atmosphere. Price at QR 395 per person for a 5-course menu. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA

Steak Night Al Liwan Restaurant. Indulge in the allyou-can-eat carnivore feast, with a selection of grilled beef, lamb, chicken, etc and various appetizers that reflects the theme. Available from 6:30pm to 11pm, prices are QR 250 exclusive of beverages and QR 370 inclusive of beverages. For more information, call 4425 6666.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Woman’s Day La Veranda. March 8 from 7pm to 11:30 pm. Celebrate Woman’s Day as we remember and show our appreciation and love for all the

CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA

Seafood Night! c.taste. From 7pm to 11:30 pm. Dive in and taste the freshest catch of the day. A wide selection of popular seafood dishes makes this an ideal night out for seafood lovers. Enjoy a seafood night with friends and family for QR 185* including soft drinks, QR 249 including selected house beverages, or go with our premium package for QR 299 including house sips. Call 4455 5000 for inquiries.

EZDAN HOTEL

A Taste of Italy Al Thouraya Restaurant. From 7pm to 11pm.

Join us for an Italian style buffet accompanied by live music at Tower 3, 4th floor. Price is QR 179 per person. For more information, call 4496 9600 or 4496 9459.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Barefoot Pool Grill. A Thursday night destination with something for everyone at Four Seasons Beach.

Feast on a BBQ Dinner or hang out at the Beach Bar while enjoying live entertainment & DJ with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Beach BBQ Dinner: QR 250 including soft beverages, QR 350 including selected house beverages.

Every Thursday 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm. Reservation recommended.

Beach Bar: Free entry. First come, first served.

Happy Hour 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm Every Thursday 6:30 pm – 1:00 am For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Grillies Pass Around La Central Restaurant. All what you can eat meat at QR 199 inclusive of dessert and one house sips. For more information, call 4428 8772.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Bbq Night Vine. The legendary BBQ evening brunch is

back for the season, serving up more delicious ribs and tantalising BBQ classics. Why wait until Friday? Start your weekend early with the best ribs in town. Prices: QR 320 per person with soft beverages, QR 420 per person including enhanced beverages and QR 135 Regular shisha/ QR 160 Special shisha. To book, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis. com.

FRIDAY ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL WEST BAY

Buffet Lunch Al Dirwandi Restaurant. From12:30 p.m till 4:00 p.m. Enjoy with the family the new buffet lunch with a wide selection of starters, main courses and dessert along with live cooking stations and special activities for kids. QR 130 per person, kids below 6 years for free, between 7-12 years 50% discount. For more details, contact 4403 8727 or e-mail: H9537-FB@accor. com

CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA

Friday Brunch c.taste. We got you covered with everything you might crave on a Friday afternoon. From fresh seafood to a heavenly cheese station to tasty mains. Great beginnings deserve a sweet ending; you will not be disappointed by our sweet station! See you for brunch from 12:30 to 4:00 pm. QR 185 per person including unlimited soft drinks or QR 249 per person including unlimited selected house beverages. Call +97444555000 for inquiries.

DOHA MARRIOTT

Urban Brunch Restaurant Gallery. From 12:30pm – 4:00pm.

There’s a new brunch in town! Doha Marriott Hotel is introducing an Urban twist to Doha’s brunch scene! The Urban brunch offers a genuine & authentic atmosphere perfect for you and your family. Enjoy a unique mix of local produce, assorted seafood and mouthwatering live cooking stations every Friday at our Restaurant Gallery! Regular brunch for only QR 220 and bubbly brunch for QR 320. For reservations, call 4429 8499.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Friday Brunch From 12.30 pm – 4:30 pm. Start the weekend on a leisurely note with the award-winning Four Seasons Hotel Doha's Friday Brunch, extended live stations in Elements, Il Teatro and Arabica.

Savour a wide array of offerings – from fresh seafood to sushi, Asian food favourites. Arabic and Western 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. Regular brunch at QR 340 and sparkling brunch at QR 440. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining. doh@fourseasons.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS St Patrick’s Liquid Brunch

Dunes. Your favorite after brunch in Doha is turning green for St Patty’s Day! Come celebrate the Irish way on March 17th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Regular package for QR 230 with unlimited flow of house sips by glass, House Spirits package for QR 299 or premium package for QR 499. For booking and enquiries please call 44481280 or 70218094.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Fridays Brunch Zengo. From 12:30pm to 4pm. When it comes to weekend and spoiling yourself, Zengo has a proposal. Spend the Friday on the highest restaurant enjoying a Sharing Brunch. Prices: QR 250 with soft drinks and QR 350 full package.

For inquiries, call 4405 3560.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Discover the Tastes of Aroma Aroma. From 12pm to 4pm.Take your taste buds 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.

Prices: QR 110 per child, between 6-12 years or QR 220 per person, food only. For inquiries, call 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

St Patrick’s Brunch Sawa. March 17 from 12.30pm-4.00pm.

Celebrate this weekend with an exciting and special St Patricks Friday Brunch in Sawa. With live cooking stations, international cuisines, a wide selection of beverages meandering along our terraces as well as an interactive kids area this St Patrick’s day at Marsa Malaz Kempinski.

Prices: QR 350 per person, including soft beverages and QR 450 per person, including selected sips. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@ kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/ marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Friday Family Brunch Seasons Restaurant. From 12.00 pm - 3.30 pm.

Have a fun-filled Friday brunch with delicious and rich international buffet, live cooking stations and lots of activities at the very special kid’s kingdom. QR175 per person, children aged 6 and below – dine for free, from 6 to12 years - get 50% discount. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Ibn Battuta Friday Brunch Sridan. From 12:30 pm to 4pm Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Arabian explorer and enjoy 10 action stations from around the world and live entertainment for QR 285 with soft drinks and QR 385 with premium beverage. For inquiries, email sridan@shangri-la.com, or call 4429 5295.

to your table. Enjoy a selection of appetizers, grilled meats and seafood from the menu with a weekly rotation, as well as refreshing pitchers and mouth-watering desserts. Children will enjoy interactive games and activities at Lagoon Garden. Prices at QR 349 (per adult with selected house beverages), QR 249 (per adult with soft beverages) and QR 99 (per child aged 5-12). For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8512 or 44848000.

TORO TORO

Friday Brunch From 12:30 pm to 4pm. The warmth of Latin American hospitality and lively family-style dining, Toro Toro brunch offers a selection of Pan Latin favorites as well as Toro Toro’s signature mouth-watering churrasco grill at the heart of every meal. When 4 friends book, 3 friends pay! (Only applicable when booking in advance). Prices: QR 350 with soft beverages and QR 450 full package. Located at Marsa Malaz Kempinski- The Pearl, call 4035 5101 for inquiries.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

IL Pranzo E’ Servito/ The Lunch is Served La Spiga by Paper Moon. From 12pm to 4pm at. Enjoy Ala Carte/ 3 courses set lunch & open beverage packages. Price is QR 190 inclusive of selected sips. For inquiries and reservations, call 4453 5135, email bnfreservations.wdoha@ whotels.com or visit www.laspigadoha.com.

SATURDAY FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

S3 - Saturday, Sip & Sushi Nobu. From 6pm onwards. Your best evening on Saturday will take place at Nobu Doha. Enjoy variety of Nobu sushi, sashimi and rolls together with selections of Japanese speciality drinks at very special prices. Available at our Black Pearl, White Pearl and Roof top Lounges. Prices starts at QR 30. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS

Ba Mee Nights Isaan. As pasta mania takes a back seat to the noodle craze, noodle fever has hit Doha with Isaan’s “Ba Mee nights” every Saturday form 7:00pm to 11:00pm. Enjoy a selection noodle based appetizers, soups, curries, and stir-fried dishes for QR 99 For bookings and enquiries, please call. 44481250 or 70218097.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Weekend Brunch Collection – Andalusian Saturday Brunch El Faro. From 12.30pm-3.30pm. Uno, dos, tres!

End the weekend with an authentic Spanish à la carte brunch in El Faro with flavours from Andalucía. Showcasing specialties from the

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Picnic Fridays Lagoon Restaurant and Garden. From 12:30pm to 4pm. Featuring a sumptuous selection of picnic delights served family-style

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FOOD & DINING region as well as offering an assortment of the signature tapas, unlimited paella and delicious desserts. Continue the fiesta with the Hora Feliz!

1+1 offer, starting at 3.30pm. Prices: QR 240 per person, including soft beverages and QR 380 per person, including sips, Spanish beverages.

For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA

Sushi and Steak Blue. From 12.30 pm to 12 midnight. Treat yourself to an experience like never before with a succulent combination of sushi and steak. Be sure to get the best of both worlds, only at Blue for only QR 215. For more information, call 4445 5535.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Arabic Family Brunch Al Hubara. From 12:30pm to 4pm. The perfect time for a family gathering with delicious dishes complemented by a truly fulfilling culinary experience. Price is at QR QR 240 per person including soft beverages. 50% discount for kids aged 6-12 years and kids below 6 dine for free.

For reservations, call 4485 3000.

ST. REGIS DOHA

Oasis Picnic Oyster Bay. Spend family day. Relax on the lawn with Oyster Bay’s chef’s selection of sandwiches, bites and soft drinks. Seize your picnic basket and enjoy your sunny afternoon with the family every Saturday of the month.

Prices: QR 295 - Picnic basket, suitable for 2 adults, additional per kid QR 75. No ID scanning - No age limit- Everyone is welcomed 48hrs per booking. To book, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com

THE TORCH DOHA

Arabic Lunch Buffet Flying Carpet. Variety of platters from different Arabic cuisines, QR160 net per person including water, soft drinks & chilled juices. Served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. FLYING CARPET restaurant located at Mezzanine 2. For reservations, please call 4446 5600, or email restaurant. reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

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

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Where To Go

DAILY S P E& CIALS ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL WEST BAY Theme Nights

Biryani Night - March 2nd, QR 80 per person / Noodles & Pasta Night - March 9th, QR 65 per person / Barbecue & Shawarma Night - March 16 QR 130 per person / Biryani Night - March 23, QR 80 per person / Couscous Night - March 30th, QR 100 per person. For more details, contact 4403 8727 or e-mail: H9537-FB@ accor.com

ALRAYYAN HOTEL - CURIO, A COLLECTION BY HILTON

Beauty and the Beast Brunch Daily at Mezzo Restaurant. For only QR 195

per person, share with your friends and family a sumptuous brunch full of flavor.

Let the kids take advantage of the kids’ corner. For more information, call 4489 9000, or email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com.

Afternoon Tea

Daily at MODA Lounge . From 3pm to 7pm.

Treat yourself to a delicious Afternoon Tea for only QR 90. For more information, call 4489 9000, or email DOHMO_FB@hilton. com.

Cheesecake Promotion

Daily at MODA Lounge. From 8am to 11pm. Enjoy your favorite cheesecake flavor for only QR 45 inclusive of Lamborghini tea and coffee. For more information, call 4489 9000, or email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com .

CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA

All-you-can-eat sushi Mon & Sat. at c.mondo. Gather you

friends for all-you-can-eat sushi and come down to c.mondo to enjoy favorites like California Roll, Salmon Nigiri, Crab Blossom and much more, for QR 79 only.

All you can eat sushi from 12 noon to 3 pm on Monday and 5pm to 10 pm on Saturday.

Call 4455 5000 for inquiries.

DOHA MARRIOTT

Steak Happy Hour Daily at JW's Steakhouse. Introducing

the one and only “Steak Happy Hour” at the JW’s Steakhouse! Enjoy 20% off all steaks from 6:30pm till 8:00pm daily!

Enjoy the finest cuts of US Certified Prime Angus Beef that go along perfectly with our selection of delightful side dishes. For reservations, call 4429 8499.

DOUBLE TREE HILTON

PURE Bbq Thur. Fri. Sat. at Pure. We offer unlimited

grills for QR120 per person from 6PM9PM (regular door policy applies). For reservations, please call 5079 3208 or email: doha.social@hilton.com.

Breakfast in L2

Daily at L2. From 6.30AM – 10.30AM, weekends until 11AM for only QR 110 for per person and happy hour buffet from 8AM to 10AM for only QR 70 per person.

For reservations, please call 4034 3333 or eMail: doha.social@hilton.com.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Spring Into ELEMENTS Daily at Elements. From 7pm to 11:30 pm.

During the month of March, enjoy a fourcourse menu featuring Elements’ signature dishes with two beverages of your choice.

Price at QR 175 per person - 4-course set menu inclusive of 2 beverages (selected house beverages & soft beverages). For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS

Exclusive Celebratory Dinners Grand Hyatt Beach Lounge. Wondering how to spend an upcoming anniversary? Want to celebrate a special birthday with loved ones?

Celebrate in style and savor tailor-made menus for exclusive celebration dinners on the beach.

Private Butler service available for QR 500 per person. For bookings and enquiries, please call 7798 2395.

Risotto Festival

Mar 1-10at Rocca. A festival created for Risotto aficionados! Enjoy family style appetizers along with a main course that includes three kinds of Risotto, indulge in two kinds of desserts and enjoy a glass of sips or soft beverage from 6pm. This delectable offer is available for QR 135 per person. For booking and enquiries please call 44481272.

Spicy Sunsets

Sat to Thur at Isaan. Spice up your Sunsets with a 30% discount on Isaan’s a la carte menu.

Enjoy this authentic Thai dining experience from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. For bookings and enquiries, please call 44481250 or 70218097.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

The Hour of the Connoisseurs Daily at Belgian Cafe. From 12:30pm until 6:30pm. The award-winning Belgian Café reveals the longest happy hour in Doha. The best part? Enjoy the company of your friends every day after work and choose your favorites from our wide selection of Belgian draught hops and international brews that start from QR 30. For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

The Square International Dinner Nights Fri to Mon at The Square. From 6-11pm.

Choose from an exciting array of International

dishes every night at The Square. Indulge in flavours from around the world starting from Asia, Mediterranean Coast, Europe, Gulf and India. Don’t forget to enjoy our divine dessert bar. Price from QR 150. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

INDONESIAN FOOD FESTIVAL

Daily (March 8-28) at Hwang. Excite your palate with the tantalising and vibrant flavours of Indonesia! Dine at Hwang and allow celebrity chef Haryo Pramoe to take you on an exciting culinary adventure around this country as he delights your tastebuds with familiar favourites and new surprises. Enjoy À la carte menu (12pm-3pm and 6pm-11pm). For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Express Lunch Sun. - Thurs at Zengo. From 12pm to 4pm.

The award winning Pan-Asian restaurant by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval now offers the option to indulge in a delicious Lunch when in a rush!

Zengo’s express lunch menu offers a complete spin on authentic Pan-Asian cuisine from Miso Soup, Sushi, hand-crafted Dim Sum; to curry dishes, grilled entrees, and wok dishes.

Save some space for exotic fruits & sweet ends!

Express Lunch: QR 95 per person including water & sodas. Omakase Lunch: QR 215 sharing for two, including water & sodas. For inquiries, call 4405 3560.

Ladies High Tea

Daily at Gourmet House. Ladies, join us from 12pm to 7pm for a 3-tierd High Tea curated especially for you and a friend to share and enjoy. With miniature sweet and savoury treats accompanied by perfectly brewed tea and coffee, ensuring a well-balanced afternoon out with friends. QAR 185 for 2 persons including coffee or tea. For inquiries, contact 4405 3326 or gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/doha.

Express Business Lunch

Daily at Aroma. From 12pm-4pm. 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. Prices: QAR 75 or 95 per person. For inquiries, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants. doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/ doha

LA CIGALE HOTEL

International Cuisine prepared by Chef Luca Del Col. Daily at La Central. From 12 pm to 3:30 pm and 7 pm – 11:30 pm. With Mediterranean specialties including seafood market and a rich Salad Bar complemented by the extended beverage selection. For more information, call 974 4428 8772.

The Italian Restaurant “Di Capri”

Daily at Di Capri. 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. Daily from 12:00

pm – 3:30 pm & 7:00 pm – 11:30 pm. For more information, call 4428 8840.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Journey through India Daily at Sawa. From 6.30 pm to 10 pm.

Whether you like it spicy or mild, buttery or creamy; our talented authentic chefs have prepared an Indian menu packed with spices.

Add a few dishes and share it with those around you starting from QR 100 per person. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA

Special breakfast offer Daily at Flavours. From 6.30 am to 10.30 am. Spoil yourself every morning with delicious breakfast buffet at Flavours, featuring live cooking stations (saj, eggs, waffles, and pancakes), special healthy corner, fresh bakery and much more for only QR 99 per person. For more information, call 4445 5544.

Asian High Tea Daily at Victoria. From 12-6pm. SIf you’re looking for something completely different, Asian afternoon tea is a must try. Enjoy your favorite tea with a selection of edamame, mixed maki, battera sushi and gyoza for only QR 145 per order (good for two). For more information, call 4445 5547.

Hatay-themed Night Daily at Agora. From 12:30pm to 11:30pm.

Come and experience the difference of authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy a special threecourse set menu, including a starter, main course and dessert. Price is at QR 99 per oder.

For more information, call 4445 5540.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Business Lunch Weekdays at Yabby Restaurant. Dive into a selection of the freshest catch and get hooked on the yabby-licious creations at QR 85 for a two-course lunch menu or QR 95 for a threecourse menu from 12 pm. to 3 pm. on weekdays.

For reservations, call 4429 5295 or email yabby@shangri-la.com.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA

Bbq Weekend Fri-Sat at Al Seef Restaurant. For only QR 55 per order, enjoy Live bbq station where guests can order hotdog and burgers for lunch by the pool. For more information, call 4425 6666.

Turkish Coffee Ceremony Daily at Al Jalsa. From the days of the Ottoman Empire through the present, coffee has played an important role in Turkish lifestyle and culture. From March 2017, we invite you to enjoy live Turkish coffee ceremony that combines special preparation and brewing techniques with a rich communal traditional Turkish culture in Al Jalsa Lobby Lounge for only QR 40 per person.

For more information, call 4425 6666.

trio lunch, a three course lunch menu featuring a selection of Al Sultan Brahim recipes, soft drinks and shisha. Price for the trio lunch package is at QR 125 including food, soft drinks and shisha. To book, call 4446 0105 or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE TORCH DOHA

Theme Nights Tues. Wed. Thurs. at FLYING CARPET. Latino Italiano (Tues): Wide selection of steaks, burgers, hot dogs, mini pizzas, Italian Antipasti, Fresh Pasta, Paella, live stations for QR 200.

Street Food BBQ (Wednesday): Choose from a wide selection of Steaks, Fish & Oriental BBQ accompanied with salad & dessert buffet, carvings, & BBQ display for QR 220. Seafood Extravaganza (Thursday): Tropical Seafood Night with an array of fresh seafood for grilling, frying, wok and much more for QR255. All are inclusive of soft drinks and chilled juices. Available from 7.00pm to 10.30pm Located at Mezzanine 2. For reservations, call 4446 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Lunch at Heights Sun to Thurs at THREE SIXTY. Choice of two or three course set menu with selected cold beverage at QR 95 or 150 per person from 12noon to 3:00 pm. Great food and unique setting overlooking Doha’s Skyline at our revolving restaurant on the 47th floor.

For reservations, call 4446 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

Kids Afternoon Tea Wed. to Thurs. Le Ciel in La Mer. From 3:30pm to 6pm. Delight the young Ritz-Carlton guests to the art of Afternoon Tea with a special Disney story telling session and other exciting activities that create a memorable tradition surrounded by their favorite characters making the whole afternoon tea experience complete. Advance reservation is required. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Lunch is served! Now at WAHM Daily at WAHM. From 12:00 – 4:00 pm.

Indulge in a special set three-course menu.

Have it indoor or by the terrace, your choice for only QR 79 - three-course meal. For inquiries and reservations, call 4453 5323 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. For more information, please visit www.wahmdoha.com.

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ST. REGIS DOHA

Trio Lunch Sun to Thurs at Al Sultan Brahim. Experience the taste of legendary Lebanese cuisine with the

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Prime Intercontinental Doha The City

CAFÉ #999 The Doha Fire Station

SPANISH & TEX-MEX

INTERNATIONAL

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

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

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

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

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Issan Grand Hyatt Doha

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

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

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

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

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

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

INDIAN Biryani Hut Bombay Balti Chingari Royal Indian Royal Tandoor

Al Souq St., Jasra

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

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

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

Flying Carpet The Torch Doha

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

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

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

SOUTHEAST ASIAN Asia Live!

4429-8888 Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212

Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077

Al Khor Mall 4411-8817

Salwa Road 4437-1212

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

City Center Mall 4411-5063

The Pearl 4002-7512

Landmark 4417-5682

Hakkasan The St. Regis Doha

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 (Oryx Rotana) 4402-3333 Sky Lounge (The Torch Doha) 4446-5600 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vitamine Café 4035-5011 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

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Oh là là!

Original French Tartes and Tartelettes The French word tarte can be translated to mean either pie or tart. Tartes and Tartelettes are made of a shortcrust base which are "Cuisson à blanc", this means the dough is baked without any filling at the first place and then either baked again with the topping or just filled with fruits. The filling may be sweet or savoury, though modern tarts are usually fruitbased, sometimes with custard.

The mouth-watering dessert from France rapidly became a benchmark in terms of fine pastry, symbolizing all the originality, authenticity and quality of the French gastronomy.

An Associate of AHB Group

You can find our tartes and tartelettes in the Bakery Section of all Carrefour stores in Doha.

SPORTS

Top Picks

SHANGRI LA HOTEL DOHA Health Club

GYMMITO FITNESS CLUB LESMILLS Group Exercise Classes

Upon Request. Weights aren't just for the boys anymore. Join Shangri-La Doha in the newlyopened ladies-only gym, located on the 41st floor and equipped with everything you need to stay fit, including an amazing view! Sign up now to take advantage of their introductory rate of QR 3,000 for 3 months, with free access to the 7th floor gym and the pool as well, valid until 1st of September. For more information please call 4429 5000 or email healthclub.sldh@shangri-la.com.

Take your fitness to the next level with the most attended group workouts on the planet! Programmes from LESMILLS available at Gymmito Fitness Club: RPM - A group indoor cycling workout where you control the intensity. It’s fun, low impact and burns loads of calories. BODYPUMP - The world's most popular barbell session. Get strong and lean with 800-1,000 reps per class. BODYCOMBAT - Get fighting fit with this martial-arts based cardio class.

SH'BAM - A fun-loving, insanely addictive dance workout. CXWORX - A 30-minute core, hips and leg strength challenge using resistance bands and weight plates. For more information please contact 4036 0678 or email membership@gymmito.com

EZDAN HOTEL Zumba

Thurs.-Fri. (Mix Class) and Sun.-Wed. (Ladies).

Join us for a fun session of Zumba (mixed as well as ladies classes only). Price is QR 40. Zumba mix class every Thursday and Friday; Zumba for ladies every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.

For more information, call 4496 9620 or email healthclub@ezdanhotels.qa.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Fitness Classes GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS Get 6 pack in 3 months

Upon Request. Get a flat tummy in no time! Develop a six-pack with Jaula’s new three-month program, which includes two personal training sessions and two complimentary fitness classes per week. Complete with two Jaula T-shirts and a detailed nutrition program based on personal goals, package priced at QR 7,999. For bookings and enquiries, please call 4448 1056 or 7069 5188.

Upon Request. Sign up with 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. Price at QR 50 per person.

Advance booking is required. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

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SPORTS

CRUNCH TIME for Mission to Moscow

Words by John Hunt

Later this month, qualification games for the 2018 World Cup in Russia resume after the winter break. Two games lie in wait for the national football team and The Maroons have it all to do... QH reports.

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T

he ‘second half’ of the 10-game WC2018 qualification programme kicks-off towards the end of March with a pair of games which will basically decide whether or not Qatar will be going to their first World Cup prior to hosting the event itself in 2022.

First up is Iran, who will run out at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. Iran are ranked 31st by FIFA, the best team in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and a very seasoned outfit with four previous appearances in World Cup Finals under their belt.

Good? Yes. Playing well? Yes. Unbeatable? No.

The Maroons currently lie fifth in their group of six with four points from their first five games. They have played each of the other teams in the group once, and now repeat that task. In the group, the top two qualify automatically for the World Cup, while the third-placed team go into a play-off.

When Qatar faced ‘The Prince Persian’ (managed for six years now by former Real Madrid boss Carlos Quieroz) in Tehran back in September, they were on the wrong end of a 2-0 reverse, but both Iranian goals came deep into stoppage time. The message from Qatar manager Jorge Fossati to his charges will surely be to keep it tight at the back as they proved they could do for 94 minutes in Tehran, and stick one (or preferably more) in the net at the other end. Iran certainly aren’t going to make it easy – but it can be done.

Currently, the top three in the group reads: Iran: 11pts; South Korea: 10pts, and Uzbekistan: 9pts – so Qatar have a fair bit of ground to make up in this ‘second half’ if they are to have any chance of making it to Russia next summer. In short, they are going to have to win the next two games or The Maroons will be making their World Cup début as hosts in five years’ time, not next year.

Tough, but not impossible…

So, who are the opponents coming up and what are Qatar’s chances of securing the pair of victories they need? Well, it couldn’t be much tougher, as The Maroons host table-topping Iran in Doha on the 23rd, followed on the 28th with a visit to Tashkent where they will face third-placed Uzbekistan.

At first glance, this looks very daunting. At second glance, it still looks very daunting! However, it’s worth looking at how the previous games against these opponents have panned out to give us an indication of how the return legs might go.

Into the lair of the ‘White Wolves’…

Qatar will board a flight for Tashkent a couple of days after the Iran game to take on Uzbekistan, a.k.a. the excellently-nicknamed ‘White Wolves’.

Uzbekistan were 1-0 victors in Doha in the autumn but, again, their winner did not come until the 86th minute. The message from Fossati will be similar to that which he will deliver before the Iran game: you nearly kept them out last time, go four minutes better this time, and score yourselves.

Keep the dream alive…

As previously mentioned, Qatar need to win both of these games – or at the very least obtain a win and a draw – to keep their WC2018 dreams alive.

What are the ramifications if they fail to do so? In truth, probably not that severe. Failure to qualify for Russia means that The Maroons will have a full, uninterrupted five years to prepare for their World Cup bow on home soil.

If you can find an Icelander, they’ll tell you that a lot can be achieved in football in five years. In 2012, Iceland’s FIFA ranking was 90. Today, they are ranked 20th, and were quarter-finalists in last year’s EURO2016, achieved with a squad drawn from 330,000 people – very similar in size to the (indigenous) population of Qatar.

By the end of this month we will know with a 99% degree of certainty whether or not Qatar are going to make it to Russia. Naturally we will hope for the best, but there will be no disgrace in not qualifying from a group containing sides as strong as Iran, South Korea (World Cup semi-finalists, 2002) and Uzbekistan.

But if Qatar do pull off two wins at the end of this month, then hopes of making it to Russia will receive a massive shot in the arm. Fingers crossed, then… n

Uzbekistan are a well-drilled outfit, very tough, and have within their ‘pack’ the 32-year-old forward Alexander Geynrikh, who has been playing for the national side since he was just 18. Ninety-three caps and 31 goals later, he is one that The Maroons’ defence will need to watch.

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SPORTS

LIFTING WEIGHTS Does it make women look unfeminine?

Words by Simonne Stojanovska

When I was a teenager, I was introduced to weight training. I was apprehensive at first as I did not want to become muscular in stature and was afraid, as many are, that I would look unfeminine.

This is what I learned actually happens to the body when you begin lifting weights.

I

've always been passionate about sports.

When I was a little child I used to train in karate and my passion grew from there. When I was in my teenage years, I started training to improve my fitness and my uncle introduced me to weight training, something I did not have much knowledge on at the time. He began by showing me the basic steps of fitness training and lifting weights. At first I was afraid my muscles would look too bulky.

What is fitness to me?

Being physically fit and healthy involves having a fit mind, body and spirit. It also involves having proper nutrition, a moderate-to-vigorous physical exercise program, and, the most important rule of all, having quality rest and relaxation.

For me, fitness is freedom. Your fitness level is a balance of your body’s ability to perform

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physically, your mind’s ability to actively focus and think about the important aspects of life, and your spirit’s ability to seek an ever improving lifestyle beyond your current state of being.

This is what drives me through life and having a lynch pin to order all aspects of my life around what I believe is great. I think everyone can gain value from proper fitness, including women.

How can fitness change your life?

As I continued training under my uncle’s guidance, I started to become very curious about the benefits of lifting weights. I was amazed at how much your body is capable of achieving when you put it to the test. But there was always one question in my head.

Does weight training make you look unfeminine?

There's a myth, especially among women, that lifting weights will make you bulky. Stop right there! You need to separate bodybuilding from general fitness. Different types of training need different types of nutrition, different supplements, and different approaches in order to reach your goal.

Weight loss, sculpting a defined body, and bodybuilding have many different components to consider when it comes to training and nutrition, but lifting weights can certainly be applied throughout if the proper approach is taken.

If you want to work on achieving definition and lowering your body fat, then your training program needs to include pushing yourself to exhaustion.

And this does not mean running marathons on the treadmill. You can achieve this through weight training.

That means, exhaust the muscle group by pushing to the max with an exercise you can control even when you’re at the point of fatigue. Consider push ups, triceps dips with additional weights, or a dumbbell press. Go to maximum effort, doing as many reps as you can, then rest for a minute.

Go for one more round to break down the muscle as much as possible. This will help stimulate hypertrophy, which builds muscle size and improves definition as well as enhances fat loss.

Today’s media often advertise running and dancing as typical go-to methods of training for women, which in their own right are great.

However, for a more complete and comprehensive workout, lifting weights is excellent.

You're now on the road to stronger bones, leaner muscles, and increased strength. With that, you need to know that as with any other activity, lifting weights can cause injury if done improperly, so be careful and learn before you train if unsupervised.

My top tips for training Start listening to your body and recognising your weaker areas – lifting weights will effectively enhance your posture and core strength.

Fitness is a journey. Each day you can experience more and more. If you concentrate on lifting weights for weight loss, then you are guaranteed to learn a lot more than if you were to hit the tedious treadmill day in day out.

Not every nutrition or fitness plan can be the same for everyone, and you will experience your own unique set of results. For some people, their genetics play a big part in their goals. But one thing I always say to my clients: you can always beat genetics!

The good thing about lifting weights is that every time you train you're dividing the muscles groups on your body, so you can always pay attention to improving certain parts of your body that you're not particularly satisfied with.

The key for the perfect look and attaining good health is training with weights and doing cardiovascular exercises to supplement. Do not neglect the strengthening components.

Separate your cardio Cardiovascular exercise is any exercise that raises your heart rate. There are several types of cardio exercise: • Low impact - This type of cardio is still a weight-bearing activity, meaning that it is good for maintaining healthy bones in addition to conditioning the heart and lungs. Walking, hiking, and low-impact aerobic dance are the most common forms of this type of exercise.

• High impact - This type of cardio is weightbearing, meaning that you are supporting your own body weight with your limbs against gravity.

• No impact - Being immersed in water reduces the pull of gravity on your body; in effect, cardio in water is a no-impact activity. Swimming or water aerobics increases your heart rate and burns calories effectively. Cycling can also be considered a no-impact workout, as the frame and tires of your bike support most of your body weight.

Why should you start lifting weights?

• Stress relief: Break a sweat in the weight room and you'll stay cool under pressure. Studies show that the fittest people exhibited lower levels of stress hormones than those who were the least fit. Another study found that after a stressful

situation, the blood pressure levels of people with the most muscle mass returned to normal faster than the levels of those with the least amount of muscle mass.

• You'll be happier: People who performed three weight workouts a week for six months significantly improved their mood – the endorphins released during a good weights workout are unimaginable for those who are new to fitness.

• Stronger bones: As you age, bone mass becomes weaker. The good news: Near 16 weeks of resistance training, increased hip bone density and elevated blood levels are to be expected.

• Healthier heart: People who did three totalbody weight workouts a week for at least two months decreased their diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) by an average of eight points. That's enough to reduce the chance of a heart attack by 15 percent.

So, will lifting weights make you look unfeminine?

That’s a myth! What lifting weights will do is make you stronger, healthier, and happier. Start training toward a better version of you! n Contact: Simonne Stojanovska, Evolve Mind|Body|Soul Call: +974 5040 3234 Email: info@evolvemindbodysoul.com , s.stojanovska@evolvemindbodysoul.com Website: www.evolvemindbodysoul.com

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Top Picks

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA The Spa

Daily: Opens from 6 am to 10 pm. The Spa offers six treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a fitness centre that features Technogym equipment, as well as separate male and female steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzi. For inquiries and reservations, call 4445 5530.

HILTON DOHA Eforea Spa promotions at Hilton

Upon Request: Working on yourself has never been easier with these great promotions at Eforea spa.

Receive QR100 retail credit with the purchase of any 90 minutes treatment, get 25% off of the total price upon booking of any couple treatment or purchase any 6 month or 1 year membership and get 10 personal training classes for free. Vide range of oriental treatments will allow you to have a one-of-a-kind royal experience. It’s time to get royally pampered! Located at Hilton Hotel, Diplomatic Street, West Bay Area.

For reservations, please call 44233441 or email: eforeaspa.doha@hilton.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Spa & Recreation

Upon Request: 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 reservations and inquiries, please contact 4484 8000.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS Women’s Month FOUR SEASONS DOHA Mother's Day

March 21. Complimentary 30 min Facial with any treatment booked on Mother's day. Pamper your mother for Spa treatment at Four Seasons Spa Doha and let her enjoy complimentary 30 minutes Rejuvenating Facial with her treatment. Offer valid only for treatment booked on Tuesday, March 21st, 2017. For inquiries & reservations call 4494 8888.

For March. Jaula Spa. Pampering women all though March! Book a Jaula Haute facial and get a complimentary eye treatment worth QR 250. Book on 8 March (Women’s International Day) or on 21 March (Mother’s Day) and receive a gift from Jaula Spa. For bookings and enquiries, please call 4448 1056 or 7069 5188

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QH SENSATIONS

PUERTO VALLARTA Mountains, magic, and romance in Mexico

Words by Francesca Cruz

Set against a backdrop of bluffs, tropical jungle, and views of the Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta was once a sleepy village until Hollywood celebrities arrived and turned it into a must-visit vacation destination.

P

uerto Vallarta was thrust into the spotlight in the 1960s when famed lovebirds Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton arrived to shoot director John Huston’s Night of the Iguana.

It was Burton who was starring in the film with ravishing temptress Ava Gardner as his leading lady. Burton and Taylor were hot off of filming Cleopatra and inseparable. Fearing Burton’s wandering eye and Gardner’s devilish charm, Taylor encamped in Vallarta, placing the town on the global stage.

Now with travelers looking to visit a place that incorporates scenic views, a tropical climate, history, and romance, Vallarta reigns once more like a Hollywood star.

A hotel with a Hollywood pedigree It was on Taylor’s 32nd birthday in 1964 that Burton presented to her the gift of Casa Kimberly, a hacienda style villa built in 1958 and named after the builder’s daughter. The couple then purchased another villa across the street and built a tiny connecting bridge they christened the Puente de Amor. Since then the villa has been turned into a luxurious boutique hotel.

Perched under the lush Sierra Madre Mountains and imbued in romance, the property has been

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completely restored and expanded to host nine sumptuous suites, with one, of course, named after Taylor.

Traditional-modern Mexican fare The hotel also houses one of the best culinary experiences in this town, the Iguana Restaurant and Bar named after the film. With glorious views of Vallarta from the restaurant, Executive Chef Eduardo Michaga Lucero has created a traditional Mexican menu that incorporates modern culinary influences and sets the stage for your love affair with this destination. Make sure to delight in the fresh lobster tacos and the squash stuffed with ricotta and poblano cheese. For the grand finale, ask for the chocolate tart made of both white and dark chocolate.

A locavore’s delight Another dining option to indulge in is Chef Alfonso Cadena’s La Leche. Located on famed Francisco Medina Ascencio Boulevard, it’s in the center of the hotel zone. Decorated all in white, with white milk cans, it encompasses ambiance, design, and vanguard gastronomy. The menu is constantly changing based on the ingredients available daily from local vendors.

Seafood with a view For fresh seafood and ocean views, Le Kliff is just a 25-minute drive south. This open-air restaurant consists of an enormous palapa (traditional palm-

making it one of the best outdoor experiences you’ll partake of while here.

Be a botanist for a day You can head to the midst of the Sierra Madres hills by spending the day at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Explore the tropical gardens, the path of flowers, the forest preserve, the native vanilla plants, and the orchid laboratory. Admission to the ecological park ($11.25) gives visitors access to the hiking trails and the opportunity to go swimming in the river.

roofed shelter) with a side terrace that is an ideal spot to catch the setting sun over Banderas Bay. A drive to downtown and the heart of the city, with cobblestoned streets, red-tiled roofs, and wroughtiron balconies is where you’ll discover the shopping, cafes, and nightlife. The boardwalk, or Malecon, lines the beach shore and is where you’ll find the sand sculptures and public art.

A town where movie history was made A stay in Vallarta isn’t truly bona fide without a jaunt to the town of Mismaloya. This is the municipality where Night of the Iguana was filmed. It’s a 20-minute drive through a narrow winding road that is flush with foliage, and kissed by the coastline of the Bay of Banderas. You’ll come across bright exotic flowers and spectacular birds, all lending to the sensation you’re in a jungle. Make time to stop at Mismaloya Beach and fully partake in the natural beauty of the area.

Next time you make vacation plans, consider Puerto Vallarta and indulge your love of spectacular views, delicious food, and nature’s beauty. n

Tour nature spots in style But if adventure is what you desire, you must set sail to Las Caletas, a private beach caressed by cliffs and only accessible by sea. It was once the home of Hollywood director John Huston.

Join Olympus Tours for a day excursion—with guided nature walks, kayaking, and snorkeling. Revel in nature by spending time in the deer sanctuary, or sway on beach hammocks as you dip your toes in the cobalt Pacific Ocean. With mountainous bluffs as your backdrop, and a nature preserve all around, you might never want to depart. Make sure to keep an eye out for humpback whales if you visit from December to March.

This excursion feels authentically Mexican, with traditional fare, music, and exemplary service,

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SPECIAL QH SENSATIONS PROMOTION

The Curve Hotel

Stunning views, friendly crew QH visits the city’s newest apartmenthotel and finds it an impressive addition to the hospitality available in the West Bay, suitable for business travelers, tourists, and families alike.

T

he Curve Hotel by Ezdan is the place to be in Doha. Named after the hotel’s structure which resembles the smooth curvature of one of Doha’s landmarks, the Corniche - The Curve Hotel is the place to be if you want to be close to all the city has to offer.

With 600 guest rooms that vary in size, this hotel can accommodate different lifestyles from travelers, to those looking to relocate, or individuals seeking a weekend stay-cation.

This luxurious and modern hotel transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary with its amenities and special offers as it allows guests plenty of opportunities to indulge in relaxing and personalized moments.

Be near What many travelers appreciate about The Curve is its prime location. It is a few minutes walk from the City Centre shopping mall with its restaurants and cinema, and less than 15 minutes’ walk to the corniche. It’s also close to various dining spots and shops in the area.

Be pampered The Curve offers both short- and long-stay accommodation, making it perfect for staycations, tourist vacations, business trips, as well as residential stays for those who prefer a place to call home.

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Choose your accommodation, from a junior studio or one- to two-bedroom apartments. Alternatively, choose the Presidential Suite or the Royal Suite for a more luxurious stay.

When you arrive, be greeted by well-trained, professional, and friendly staff that anticipates guests’ needs and provides a welcoming environment.

Upon checking into your chosen apartment, enjoy the incredible views of the sea, which can be seen from 80 percent of the hotel’s rooms.

The rooms have free Wifi and are completely furnished with modern interiors. Fully equipped kitchens, and home entertainment systems connected to an IP TV system ensures a comfortable stay.

Be refreshed The Curve offers buffet dining which can be found on the Mezzanine floor called Delice. Delice is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Curve’s outdoor rooftop swimming pool is set against a spectacular background of panoramic sea views. The temperature control swimming pool allows access at any time of the year.

Whether you’re new to exercise or a regular gymgoer, get a good workout at the fitness center. It maintains two fully-equipped male and female gyms that offer a wide range of aerobic and strength training equipment, with a professional team of trainers ready to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Be relaxed The Curve’s Skin Sation massage area will be opening soon where guests can experience a philosophy of care, comfort, and luxury. A selection of massages coupled with organic

skincareproducts provides for custom-designed treatments.

Be confident Rest assured that you’ll have a great stay at The Curve by checking out online reviews on TripAdvisor.

They’re highly positive, with guests pointing to the great experiences they’ve had: •_dorakovac3, Doha, Qatar: “I am staying in the Curve apartment for two weeks now and I have very good experience. View from the room is absolutely incredible, looking at the seaside.

Location is very good, only less than 10 min walking distance from the City Center shopping mall, so you have everything you need nearby. All staff is very friendly and make you feel good and welcome…I recommend it to everybody, families on vacation or people on business trip - apartments are equipped with all necessary stuff!”

•Jack N, Olympia, Washington: “I just want to add to the latest reviews that my experience at The Curve Hotel has been nothing less than superb.

The incredibly friendly staff are very helpful and professional. The staff is always trying to assist in anyway they can to make your stay as pleasant as possible. They is still have some improvements to the hotel on going which will make your stay even more satisfying…I would highly recommend The Curve Hotel to families and solo travelers. Enjoy your stay in Doha.”

Be a member The Curve Hotel offers membership packages that allow access to their facilities at various discounted rates (you can contacted The Curve Hotel directly): • Fitness Centre: Memberships are for one-, three-, and six-months and up to one year, for individuals and families. Access to the fitness center without membership is allowed at a rate of QR 100 per visit.

• Swimming pool: there are various rates for various ages For exceptional service, magnificent sea views, and a tranquil destination choose The Curve Hotel by Ezdan – The place to embrace the city. n

Address: Diplomatic Street, Ad Dawhah, West Bay, Doha Reservations: +974 4007 8888 Hours: Always open Website: www.ezdancurve.qa Facebook: facebook.com/thecurvehotel

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QH SENSATIONS

InterContinental Hotel Doha Spa

LUXURY RELAXATION

Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Pictures By Jessie Palanca

The famed spa opens its doors! QH was invited to experience a luxurious new concept in spa treatment at the hands of an international team.

W

e had all been waiting for the opening of Spa InterContinental at the InterContinental Hotel Doha as we know that this international brand always surprises its guests with quality and five-star service.

I had my appointment on a Tuesday afternoon and I arrived quite excited and looking forward to this experience. I was greeted by Spa Manager Stephanie Arrive, a French National who has 26 years of experience in this industry. I noticed that her skin is absolutely perfect. Not a surprise as French has a well known reputation in term of cosmetics and luxury. Stephanie confessed me that she takes care of her skin since she was 15 years old.

Stephanie toured me around the spa and explained all the services provided and products used that she

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personally picked for me.

When they opened the doors of the spa I have to confess that I never saw anything so beautiful in my life. The dĂŠcor is absolutely stunning with luxury lamps of white mixed with purple lighting that gives the environment a unique touch.

This gorgeous luxury spa has 16 rooms. Six of the treatments rooms are common areas (male and female), two are for the Bastien Gonzalez Nail Studio, one is a couples room, one room has the Spa Wave Bed, one Room has the Quartz bed, one is the Thai massage room, five are male treatments rooms and five are female treatments rooms. The spa combines a luxury relaxation experience with skincare results of the kind that can be obtained at a medical beauty center.

Stephanie Arrive Spa Manager

The experience starts with filling out health records in the waiting room. Stephanie asked me about my history with facials and beauty procedures. She then introduced me to my therapist, Tann, a lovely lady from Thailand who is also a supervisor.

Stephanie told me that not only are their therapists carefully selected, the team also undergoes three months of training at InterContinental Hotel Doha to gain expertise on different types of skin and treatments.

When I asked about her involvement with this spa opening, Stephanie said she helped create the concept including aspects such as choice of brand, spa menu, some dĂŠcor choices, and staff training.

She only uses the best of worldwide products including Natura Bisse, Intraceuticals, Baija Paris,

and Bastien Gonzales. Stephanie believes that a combination of knowledge, experience, technique, and quality products achieve the best results.

I was speechless once again when we entered the therapy room, a spacious salon with gorgeous chandelier switches that can change lighting colors according to guests’ desires. While talking to Tann, I chose purple.

My treatment was the Diamond Life Infusion.

Tann explained that this treatment preserves the youthfulness of skin and slows the aging process. It visibly diminishes lines and wrinkles and restores a youthful energy to every level of the skin. She added that it “dramatically reverses premature aging while increasing firmness and elasticity.”

After that description, I was ready to look gorgeous and enjoy a 90-minute facial.

My bed was set on warm temperature and I was covered by a comfortable blanket.

Tann first analysed my skin type to carefully choose products to be used for the treatment. This treatment uses the luxury Spanish brand, Natura

Bisse, universally recognized for ground-breaking technology in results –driven skincare and world class spa treatments. I was definitely in good hands and getting the best quality products for my skin.

Between skin analyses, cleansing, and applying products, I was also getting a massage in a warm bed. I was feeling so relaxed that I expected to fall asleep at any moment.

Tann applied a masque that gave my facial skin a refreshing sensation. She left it for around 20 minutes while I received a head, foot, and hand massage. I floated away in a luxurious, relaxing doze.

spa experience focusing on skin results with a European concept and a unique choice of nail care from the Bastien Gonzalez brand. I’m amazed by the quality of services and products and the results I obtained.

I think that if I undergo these kind of treatments twice a month, I am sure I will look ten years younger in no time! I am definitely coming back for more. Ladies and gentlemen, take my advice and go for a treatment at Spa InterContinental at the InterContinental Hotel Doha, the experience of a lifetime. You will find yourself in one of the most beautiful and luxurious spas around the world, providing the best of five-star products and services, right here in Doha.. n

She returned and whispered that she was removing the masque. During the process I could feel my skin glowing. Unbelievable. She massaged my face with Natura Bisse creams and when I looked in the mirror I was surprised by the results.

First, the color of my skin was clear, it was fresh, and I was definitely looking younger with a skin elasticity and glow that I could feel.

After my treatment, Tann and Stephanie took me to a relaxation room where you can have a cup of tea or glass of juice while reading a magazine or just resting. It was yet another beautiful spot inside this luxurious spa.

The spa offers a wide range of pampering services. You can choose from different kinds of body massage with Baija Paris Aroma Oil, body sculpturing by Natura Bisse, mani-pedi by Studio by Bastien Gonzales, Quartz and Wave Bed treatments, Spa Teens, Bachelorette Party Spa Time, Spa Love indulgence, Men’s Spa, and a collection of Spa Packages which includes wedding, de-stress, detoxification, rejuvenating, and shape and tone. I haven’t seen a spa brochure so complete. There are packages from three to ten days tailored for every single guest.

Address: Al Isteqlal Road, West Bay Lagoon, Doha Reservations: Call the Front Desk at 974-4484-4444 Website: www.InterContinental.com/doha Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

The InterContinental Hotel Doha provides a unique

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QH SENSATIONS

The Dish On Qatar Wonder Women

Words by Carmela Yao

March 8 every year is International Women’s Day. Let’s celebrate respect, appreciate, and love women for all they are in our lives.

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We live in a world that is full of people with flaws but everyone has goodness within them.

So don’t hold it against yourself. Stop thinking and talking negatively about yourself, embrace your total you. For me, it doesn’t matter what other people think of me as long as I love me.

Self-Connection Life at times will pull us in many different directions, but no matter how life drags us down, we need to stay connected to our inner self. We should not create any black holes within. We have to listen to the messages of life’s lessons, understand their meaning, and learn from them.

From there, we will learn how to take care of ourselves and experience the joy of sharing our love with others.

So take time to slow down, recharge, and reconnect to your inner you.

W

hat is the true essence of a woman? I would say that it is to know her true self.

Each woman has her own sui generis way of questing through life. These specificities help define and shape the woman into who she is today.

a woman. We forget that physical beauty only captures the eyes and it will fade. But if we put emphasis on our inner self and its beauty, it will shine through. So who needs make up when we have soul-deep beauty?

Self-Awareness The learning curve of life can either make us feel aggrieved or fill us with wisdom on how to become a profoundly wise woman; it is how we deal with our viewpoint. To this end I faithfully record a daybook to help me know my true self.

Self-Love I don’t compare myself to anyone. But I admire some other women. There’s a big difference between comparing and admiring. If we compare ourselves to others, then self- understanding has already been defeated. We have to be content and accept who we are. This is why I don’t allow myself to be jealous because I know I have my own beauty. I admire other women because I support their growth and I am proud of their achievements. I respect myself and I am proud of everything I do, and that’s self-worth.

I created a journal of my Yin and Yang. I chalk up my positive qualities and deal with my negative ones. I embrace all aspects of myself. I always put in mind that if there is good, there is bad; and if it’s black, sooner or later it will become white.

We all need balance in our lives. We need to realize that for every darkness we face, there is light; and in every hardship, there is opportunity. It is up to us how we deal with the irony of life.

Self-Acceptance Focusing on outer beauty is fine if you are blessed with flawless features. Most of us want to be admired and the first thing we focus on is our physical appearance. This is a popular misconception about the true essence of being

Self-Determination A woman is a woman, she is an individual, yet she is complex. She is responsible and decides for herself.

Self-Appreciation For many women, it can be very difficult to appreciate themselves. They think it is being conceited – no! The first one to recognize your worth is yourself. We don’t have to say it aloud. We can acknowledge it in a quiet way. Appreciating yourself is an expression of gratitude towards all the people who have helped us shape into who we are today.

Every woman is intricately wrapped by layers of qualities which make up our essence. We have the ability to forgive those who have hurt us. We are given the choice to heal and live fully again, not only once in our lifetime but over and over again.

And if someone gives you praise, own it! Don’t be afraid, it’s not being narcissistic. No one is perfect.

We have a special gift of inspiring others. We possess the feminine energy to lead. We lead by being a mom, a friend, a wife, an entrepreneur, whatever we may be.

We know how to embrace the gifts that lies outside our comfort zone.

We are designed to flow freely with emotions, without restrictions. We are blessed with so much patience. We love with all our heart unconditionally.

We are open and we do not limit ourselves. We shine effortlessly. We are incredible in what we do.

As we celebrate the abilities, achievements, and potentials of womanhood this month, the QH Team salutes and honors all the courageous, powerful, and exceptional women in our lives who make each day a delightful one. Happy Women's Day!n

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DOHA AT A GLANCE

Qatar’s Olympic and Paralympic Heroes Celebrate National Sports Day The Eulen Group and Madaeen Al Doha Group Form Eulen Middle East The Eulen Group, represented by its Executive President & CEO, Ms. Maria Jose Alvarez Mezquiriz, and Madaeen Al Doha Group, owned

by His Excellency Sheikh Faisal Bin Jassim AlThani, have joined forces to provide integrated facility and management services through Eulen Middle East.

Eulen Middle East becomes a single provider capable of delivering client’s needs, integrating services such as cleaning, security, facilities maintenance, port and cruise terminal operations, environmental, consultancy, landscaping, and others for companies in a variety of sectors, as well as developing innovative and personalized solutions and allowing cost efficiency while maintaining the highest levels of quality.

Eulen Middle East can also adapt to the strategy of its clients at any time, taking care of the management and operation of the client’s properties and premises, as well as providing other support services such as project management, energy management, quality audits, and strategic facility management and services consulting.

The Eulen Group is committed to supporting the growth of the state of Qatar by bringing in over fifty years of experience. The company has a a global workforce of more than 86,000 employees and over USD$1.59 billion annual revenues within the 14 countries in which has a direct presence.

Team Qatar’s Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic athletes joined National Sport Day celebrations across Qatar as the nation came together for a sixth consecutive year to participate in and enjoy sport.

Qatar’s sporting heroes turned out to share their experiences and advice as national federations organised activities across Qatar for all ages and abilities.

Speaking from another hugely successful National Sport Day, Qatar Olympic Committee President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani said, “Our athletes are an inspiration to our nation and are excellent role models for our young people. We are delighted that so many of them were able to join in the celebrations today and pass on their experiences and guidance to aspiring young athletes.

“National Sport Day provides a unique opportunity to unite our nation through sport and share the Olympic spirit, and it is pleasing to see such large numbers of people turning out with their families and friends to participate in the many activities across Qatar.

“This is about more than just one day of sport – it is about kick-starting a future of health, happiness, and success and we hope today’s festivities have inspired people of all ages and abilities to participate in regular activity at any level.”

Qatar Airways Announces New Company to Operate Hamad International Airport The Executive Board of Directors of Qatar Airways Group has announced the establishment of a new company to manage and operate Hamad International Airport (HIA) as an independent entity owned by Qatar Airways Group.

Hamad International Airport, located in Doha, Qatar, is strategically positioned within six hours of 80 percent of the world’s population. Having opened in 2014, the airport serves 30 million passengers a year and can handle 100 aircraft movements per hour on its dual-runways.

Within two years of its opening, HIA has earned several world-class awards and recognitions including the Skytrax 5-Star Airport award – the only Middle Eastern airport to have earned this honour; Skytrax’s Middle East’s Best Airport in 2015 and 2016; Skytrax Best Staff Service in the Middle East 2016; and previously Best Airport Award at the Future Travel Experience (FTE) Asia Awards in 2015. HIA is proud to be the official airport of Bayern-Munich Football Club.

Services and facilities at HIA include Qatar Duty Free, a premium shopping emporium with more than 40,000 square metres of combined retail and dining with more than 70 boutiques and 30 cafés and restaurants.

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Chi Al Shaqab 2017 Showcases Equestrian Sports One of the most exciting events in the global equestrian calendar will be coming to Al Shaqab this March.

This prestigious venue will play host to some of the greatest and best-known riders in the world for the Chi Al Shaqab 2017.

It is a chance not to be missed for spectators. This is their opportunity to witness thrilling sporting action at the very highest level of show jumping, dressage, and paradressage.

Event Director Omar Al Mannai explains the origins behind it. “His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar, established Al Shaqab in 1992 to preserve and perpetuate the Arabian horse breed to ensure that this noble breed would continue to play a leading role in the cultural heritage of the Qatari people.

“Today we can proudly state that Al Shaqab has grown beyond this vision and is a true landmark for equine passion and equestrian success. Chi Al Shaqab, now in its fifth edition, establishes Qatar as a highlight on the world equestrian calendar.

“We want to share our pride and invite all generations of the community to experience the excitement of equine sports, and encourage everyone to enjoy the competitions and family activities,” he emphasized.

Chi Al Shaqab will take place from March 2 to 4, 2017, and tickets can be purchased from www.Q-tickets.com.

Simaisma Marks Its First Year Anniversary Simaisma Resort, Qatar’s oceanfront oasis, recently celebrated its first anniversary with the hotel’s loyal guests, business partners, and media.

The five-star hotel welcomed its first guest in February 2016.

Simaisma, a Murwab Resort, celebrated the occasion with a distinctive event hosted by the resort’s General Manager Mr. Tarek Nour. Guests and members of the media had an update tour of the resort’s luxurious villas and its myriad of recreational facilities.

The event continued with a lunch reception that took the guests on a culinary journey at Awtar, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, where their palates were introduced to some of their signature dishes and the rich range of flavors that Simaisma has to offer.

In celebration of their first anniversary, Tarek Nour, General Manager of Simaisma, said: “It is my pleasure to celebrate this important day with the ladies and gentlemen of Simaisma, our esteemed guests, and respected members of the media. Though still at our onset, the excellence and dedication of our people have been instrumental in realizing our vision for Simaisma as a five-star resort that embodies the true meaning of luxury and privacy.”

The luxury resort took home the coveted title of “Qatar's Leading Villa Resort 2016” at the World Travel Awards. The resort also achieved an outstanding 8.2 out of 10 rating at Booking.com’s 2016 Guest Review Awards.

ROTA Hosts ‘Training for Trainers’ as Part of Adult English Literacy Program Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) recently hosted a ‘Training for Trainers’ workshop as part of its Adult English Literacy (RAEL) program at Ham at Hamad bin Khalifa University (HBKU).

Aimed at volunteer tutors, the ‘Training for Trainers’ course covered a range of topics, including ROTA’s literacy curriculum, issues facing low-income migrant workers, methods to effectively facilitate adult learning, and community-based learning tools.

Rasmeya Hassan Al Jamali, Community Development Specialist, National Programs Department, ROTA, said: “The training course is an essential component of the Adult English Literacy program offered to migrant workers in Qatar. It ensures our volunteer tutors have a thorough understanding of the course material and are well prepared to effectively facilitate the program.”

This year, 70 student volunteer tutors attended the ‘Training for Trainers’ capacity building course to gain a better understanding of migrant workers’ backgrounds and acquire skills that will enable them to adequately facilitate the English literacy program.

Adidas Introduces Ultraboost X Performance Shoe for Women adidas Running has recently revealed the latest version of its iconic UltraBOOST shoe, designed to give female runners their greatest running experience.

The new UltraBOOST X is adidas’ pinnacle performance shoe, tailored to the unique shape of the female foot.

The shoe is designed to reflect the foot’s natural running silhouette for an enhanced performance for the female runner.

The Aramis system, a motion tracking technology that enables a detailed analysis into the movement of the body, was used to allow adidas innovation teams to see exact points where female runners need the most support and where their foot needs room for natural expansion. This process led to the unique design of the UltraBOOST X shoe.

Andre Maestrini, General Manager of adidas Running, said: “Based on Aramis insights into the female foot, we tailored the leading performance technology of UltraBOOST specifically for women, delivering the most innovative and technical running shoe in an industry-leading silhouette.

“We’re excited to offer the unique experience to female runners around the globe, providing the tools for them to uplift their run.”

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Maserati’s New Quattroporte Arrives in Qatar After three and a half years of unprecedented success in the international markets, the Maserati Quattroporte undergoes a substantial restyling that accentuates its elegance and its signature Maserati personality. The restyled flagship will be available in Qatar and is destined to continue a success story that commenced over 50 years ago.

“The Quattroporte was born when Maserati decided to lower the engine of a race car into a four-door - “quattro porte” - salon car in 1963. Nobody had done anything like that before. Also, our Quattroporte drives with a Ferrari-produced engine, a legacy that now continues with the new model,” said Charly Dagher, General Manager of Maserati Qatar at Al Fardan Sports Motors.

Cole Haan Launches Studiøgrand Women’s Collection

Etihad Airways Gives Economy Guests Extra Luggage Allowance to Subcontinent

Cole Haan, the iconic American lifestyle brand and retailer, is excited to announce the launch of StudiøGrand, a versatile women’s lifestyle collection.

Etihad Airways has launched a campaign offering Economy Class guests travelling from Doha to the Subcontinent an additional 10 kilograms baggage allowance.

StudiøGrand features understated, minimalist silhouettes made for women who make the most of every step, from studio to street and beyond.

“StudiøGrand was born out of a need for style and substance in and out of the studio. We have collaborated with extraordinary women like Sara Mearns, who demand more out of their feet than anyone, to create a collection for the multi-faceted woman constantly moving between the various studios of her life,” says David Maddocks, Chief Marketing Officer and General Manager of Business Development at Cole Haan.

The footwear collection highlights the StudiøGrand Pack & Go Trainer with lightweight GRAND.ØS Energy Foam which can also be seen in the Zerøgrand, Grandprø, 2.Zerøgrand and many other styles within the GRAND.ØS family.

For more information, follow @ColeHaanQatar on Instagram.

The airline operates flights to 11 cities across India, three destinations in Pakistan, and to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

Guests can avail of this offer when travelling to Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Colombo, Cochin, Delhi, Dhaka, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Jaipur, Karachi, Kathmandu, Kozhikode, Lahore, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Houssam Weiss, General Manager Qatar, Etihad Airways, said: “As part of Etihad Airways’ continued efforts to offer guests added value services, we are delighted to introduce this promotional additional baggage allowance to our key markets across the Subcontinent.

“This special offer not only provides more value to our guests, it removes some of the stress of travelling, making it easier to carry items, particularly gifts for families and friends. We are sure this will be a very popular promotion.”

The offer is valid for tickets booked and for travel by March 31, 2017. Tickets can be purchased at etihad.com, Etihad Airways’ local offices, or through a local travel agent.

Qatar Partners with Germany for Culture Programme Qatar Museums has confirmed Germany as the official partner for the 2017 Year of Culture.

Initiated by Qatar Museums and the German Federal Foreign Office and organized in partnership with the Goethe-Institut Gulf Region and the German Embassy Doha, the initiative was officially launched in February.

Throughout this year, an exciting programme of events will be presented by institutions in both Qatar and Germany, with the aim to strengthen existing ties between both countries through mutual exchange of arts, culture, and sport, and to promote dialogue, mutual understanding, recognition, and appreciation between Qatar and Germany.

“Culture is one of the most effective tools for bringing people closer together, encouraging dialogue, and deepening understanding between people. We are proud to be partnering with Germany for the 2017 Year of Culture, which builds on our success to date in connecting people through a wide range of cultural activities,” says Mohammed Al Othman, Public and International Relations Director at Qatar Museums.

The Qatar-Germany 2017 Year of Culture is part of the landmark ‘Years of Culture’ initiative developed by Qatar Museums and which is designed to deepen understanding between nations and their people through mutual exchanges of arts, culture, heritage, and sport.

The bilateral Years of Culture initiative was launched in 2012 under the guidance of Qatar Museums’ Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

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Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha Opens this Month Qatar’s new luxury destination, Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha, is set to open its doors in 2017, in the heart of the capital of Doha, with soft opening celebrations planned to take place this March 2017.

The opening of Fraser Suites West Bay, Doha, a five-star property offering unparalleled business and leisure facilities, will mark the second property of Frasers Hospitality Group in the Qatari market.

The premium luxury serviced hotel-apartments managed by Frasers Hospitality Group comprise a selection of studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom flats spread over 46 floors.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski Offers Exclusive Lifestyle Membership Plan Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha, the only palatial hotel in Qatar, recently celebrated its second anniversary.

Following the success of the opening as well as a fruitful two years, Marsa Malaz Kempinski offera the first 50 selected joiners an exclusive membership plan.

Offering so much more than a standard annual membership with access to its private facilities, guests are presented with an additional welcome package with a value of QR 5,000 on top of the discounts already offered.

Members will receive a complimentary one-night stay in a Grand Deluxe Room, a 60-minute massage in the only spa by Clarins in the Middle East, two fitness assessments, as well as two personal training sessions and five guest day passes.

Discreetly situated in the most iconic setting of The Pearl-Qatar, Marsa Malaz Kempinski offers the most exclusive membership plans. With individuals benefitting from the annual membership fee of QR 16,000 and families of two adults and two children benefiting from QR 20,000, a year of exclusivity and exhilaration awaits at Marsa Malaz Kempinski.

Road Safety Campaign ‘Make It Click Qatar’ Successfully Concludes ConocoPhillips, proud partner of Qatargas, recently marked the successful culmination of #MakeItClickQatar – a unique national road safety drive launched in collaboration with BMW Qatar, at a grand ceremony held in the Alfardan Automobiles showroom in West Bay, Doha.

The event was attended by Todd Creeger, president of ConocoPhillips; Ihab Allam, general manager of Alfardan Automobiles, BMW importer in Qatar; other distinguished guests, and members of the press.

In line with the strong safety values of both entities, the community-driven campaign was aimed at raising awareness on road safety to counteract the rising incidence of traffic accidents.

By leveraging the use of both traditional and social media platforms, #MakeItClickQatar reached out to a broad demographic of residents to reinforce the use of seatbelts and usher a long-term behavioral change among motorists in the country.

At the ceremony, Ms. Rona Salazar was announced as the winner of a brand new BMW 3 Series as part of the campaign’s exciting Instagram movement that invited users to share a photograph or video selfie of them wearing seatbelts in a parked vehicle on the @MakeItClickQatar account, with the hashtag #MakeItClickQatar.

Oxfitness Lab Opens In Doha Tackling the wide field of fitness, health, and well-being using a unique approach, OxFitness Lab, the country’s newest five-star training facility, has opened its doors to Qatar’s fitness fans.

Setting itself up in the heart of West Bay at The Gate Mall, OxFitness Lab commenced operations with a grand opening which took place in the midst of VIP guests, invitees, and members who were welcomed by owners, management, and staff.

The launch of the world-class facility unveiled the most striking and sophisticated array of fitness technologies, training equ ipment, diagnostic services, analytics, nutrition management, group and individual fitness programs, and tailor-made training regimes seen to date in Qatar’s market.

The one-of-its-kind Fitness Lab is the brain-child of Qatar’s champion sportsman Mohamed Abu Issa, who personally created its concept and influenced the design of OxFitness Lab’s spaces.

Bedaya Center Holds “Organize Your Life” Workshop The Bedaya Center for Entrepreneurship and Career Development, a joint initiative by Qatar Development Bank and Silatech, recently hosted a new workshop titled, “Organize Your Life” in collaboration with Nasser Al Mogaiseeb at the Al Mass Ballroom – City Centre Rotana Doha.

During the three- hour workshop, Al Mogaiseeb showcased multiple outlines such as identifying one’s appropriate working field in life, using algorithms and scheduling, determining precise paths in all of life’s aspects, and accurate time management.

Reem Al-Suwaidi, General Manager of Bedaya Center, said: “Through “Organize Your Life” and in collaboration with Nasser Al Mogaiseeb, we seek to enable entrepreneurs and youth to develop their abilities, expand their horizons, and assist them in planning to achieve their goals and aspirations.”

Nasser Al Mogaiseeb said: “I am honored to cooperate with Bedaya Center in its efforts toward supporting our youth and introducing them to methods on how to organize their lives and way of living and setting their targets and objectives.

“Through the workshop, we've highlighted strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities; and learned about setting goals, classifying the objectives, and how to achieve them. Our gathering also included several discussions that have an impact on achieving the workshop’s goals and objectives.”

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IT HAPPENED

NATIONAL PRESS REVEAL OF THE NEW MASERATI FLAGSHIP Maserati Showroom, The Pearl Jan. 21, 2017

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION Hakkasan Doha Jan. 23, 2017 114

NEXTCARE INNOVATION & DIGITALIZATION FORUM St. Regis Hotel Doha Jan. 24, 2017

THE COLOR RUNâ„¢ Qatar National Convention Centre Jan. 28, 2017 115

IT HAPPENED

COMMERCIAL BANK QATAR MASTERS 2017 (FINALS) Doha Golf Club Jan. 29, 2017

CARLUCCIO’S MALL OF QATAR BRANCH OPENING Carluccio’s Restaurant Jan. 31, 2017 116

LONDON TWIST AT OPAL BY GORDON RAMSAY St. Regis Jan. 30, 2017

TURKISH TRADITIONAL CELEBRATION Al Liwan Restaurant, Sharq Village & Spa Jan. 31, 2017 117

IT HAPPENED

PINK WEDNESDAY 2ND ANNIVERSARY FEATURING KEVIN LYTTLE Strata, InterContinental Doha The City Feb. 1, 2017

TASTE OF AUSTRALIA MEDIA AND VIP LAUNCH EVENT Prime Restaurant, InterContinental Doha the City Feb. 7, 2017 118

PURE LOUNGE ANNIVERSARY Double Tree by Hilton Feb. 9, 2017

THE QH GRAB BAG WINNER Adagio Premium ApartHotel West Bay Feb. 16, 2017 119

IT HAPPENED

QATAR TOTAL OPEN 2017 Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex Feb. 13-18, 2017

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THE 2017 FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT Al Sadd Sports Club and German International School Doha Feb. 14, 2017

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IT HAPPENED

QATAR NATIONAL SPORTS DAY Al Sadd Sports Club and Aspire Grounds Feb. 14, 2017

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THE GRAND OPENING OF NASSAYEM QATAR The Diplomatic Club Feb. 19, 2017

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PHONE DIRECTORY Sri Lankan Airlines Turkish Airlines

HOTELS Adagio Premium ApartHotel West Bay Al Gassar Resort AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Centro Capital Doha City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Diplomatic Club Doha Marriott Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Four Seasons Mรถvenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha The Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Millennium Hotel Doha Mรถvenpick Hotel Mรถvenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Grand Doha The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Wyndham Grand Regency

4403-8888 4424-4881 4489 9000 4040-5050 4402 3333 4445-8888 4408-7777 4484 7444 4429-8888 4034 3333 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1428 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333

AIRLINES Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air France 4444-5101 American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India

4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 Oman Air 4432-0509 Qatar Airways 4449-6666 Royal Jordanian 4443-1431

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY

HEALTH / BEAUTY Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Franรงaise 4468-9211 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 Heavenly Spa 4492-1555 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083

TOURISM / TRAVEL Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental

AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT

999

DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL 4438-4333 EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999 AL AHLI HOSPITAL 4489-8000 HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL 4439-2222

RUMAILAH HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD & WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE

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4444-1217 4443-3027

4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8817 Chowking Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 FOOD SERVICE German Bakery Company 4442 8877 Coffee Planet 4442 8877 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

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

EMBASSIES American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

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

QATAR’S FAVOURITE EVENTS MAGAZINE

March 2017

QR 10

March 2017

Bond of Friendship QH Exclusive Interview with Australian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Axel Wabenhorst

Chef for a Day

Win A Night Stay

AlRayyan Hotel Doha GM Luca Crocco Accepts the Challenge

At the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara

QH Talks to the Star of La La Land Ryan Gosling

ENTERTAINMENT QH Cover MARCH 2017 final.indd 1

ARTS

CULTURE

FOOD

COMMUNITY

SPORTS 2/24/17 1:18 PM