FACT Qatar July 2022

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20 30 42 Beach Mode On

City Rides

Celeb Chef David Myers

CONTENTS

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Culinary Spotlight

A Day In Paradise

Matter of Fact

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• THE EDITOR

I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside

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“Smell the sea, and feel the sky, let your soul and spirits fly.” Van Morrison

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FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • JULY 2022 VOLUME 09, ISSUE 01

PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CHIRINE HALABI EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LIZ O’REILLY DIGITAL EDITOR SARA WADDAH ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER SACHAN CHANDRAN

K, so the heat right now is overbearing. And, I’m more than a little jealous of those who are heading off to cooler climes.

PHOTOGRAPHER MIRCO PANACCIO

However, since Team FACT are all here, at least for parts of the summer, we’ll certainly be spending some time at the beach – with lots and lots of sunscreen.

So, for this month’s cover story, we decided to take a look at some of the fab seaside destinations dotted around Qatar and we were pleasantly surprised to find that, aside from the many gorgeous hotel beaches, our coastline also boasts some seriously stunning spots to get away from the crowds and take to the water.

Elsewhere this month we’ve been out and about around town and tasted some fabulous food, as well as taking a rather wonderful Daycation at one of our favourite properties – you can be sure we’ll be heading back over those ohso-long summer days.

We’ve got our usual round-ups of news from the worlds of fashion, tech,

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com DISTRIBUTION DAR AL-SHARQ PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS, OMAN

entertainment and, of course, what’s happening around the city.

I hope you enjoy this month’s read – and if you’re taking the mag to the beach, make sure you grab the factor 50!

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director editorial@fact-magazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS AILSA WHYATT AMAL SARHAN CECILIA LERMAN GARETH WOODS HOMARA CHOUDHARY KALVIN NG MELISSA NAZARETH

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication.

However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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• CONNECT

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First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in Doha. We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too.

Get your copy of FACT Qatar in local supermarkets now.

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“Life takes you down many paths, but my favourite ones lead to the beach.”

ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar 90,840 reads of the June issue.

If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more in Qatar and beyond.

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• FACT FINDS

ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY Residents and visitors have the chance to see one of the world’s largest congregations of whale sharks thanks to a new partnership between Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara and Discover Qatar.

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uests will be taken on a newly launched excursion which will allow them a glimpse of the biggest fish in the ocean. Cooler waters off the north-east coast of Qatar from April to September provide the ideal location to see the whale sharks as they gather to feed close to the surface of the water. The fish can be viewed for two hours from the front and back deck of the catamaran.

Visitors will be accompanied by a whale shark expert who will present an interactive lecture about the creatures, as well as a photographer who will capture guests’ experiences on camera.

Visitors will also be served a continental breakfast and sandwich buffet lunch along with other snacks and hot and cold drinks.

The resort’s catamarans are spacious and comfortable and are equipped with TVs and WiFi for guests to enjoy.

The new excursions depart five times a week from Al Ruwais Port in the north of Qatar and can be booked online.

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara has also announced the 8

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reopening of its famous surf pool after its renovation, once again expanding its wide selection of watersports activities. Those wanting to visit the resort can now enjoy two wide surfing lanes simulating ocean waves, with every session conducted under strict supervision with a trained team member to ensure the highest level of safety.

Private surfing lessons are available and the lanes may be booked exclusively for friends and family. The surf pool is open from 10am until 10pm and advanced booking is required.

Located just off the coast of downtown Doha, Banana Island is the perfect luxurious escape from the city offering a wide range of accommodation options and vast facilities for guests to enjoy. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.WHALESHARKSOFQATAR.COM/ FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• LISTEN UP

BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP POSTERS Artist Bouthayna Al Muftah tells all about the inspiration behind her FIFA World Cup posters.

The local artist, who created the official posters for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, says her goal was to ‘show celebration and football fandom in Qatar’ as she designed eight separate posters for the exciting upcoming event, which will be the very first World Cup to take place in the Middle East and will roll out from November 21 to December 18 this year.

The main poster out of the group of eight shows the traditional Qatari ‘gitra’ or headscarf, worn by men, being flung in the air, symbolising a spirit of carefree celebration.

Bouthayna, who is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, is renowned for her monochromatic aesthetic, which shines through in her latest contributions to the World Cup posters. The artist is well-versed in artistic mediums such as painting, photography, printmaking and typography.

In an interview with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy ahead of the Official Poster unveiling, the artist commented: “I’ve always been interested in art. It started as a hobby and became my passion. After high school, I enrolled in Virginia Commonwealth University and went on to major in painting and printmaking.”

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy had reached out to local artists offering the opportunity to take part in World Cup projects. When Bouthayna got the news, 10

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she was very excited and used her free time during the pandemic to come up with the concept.

“My main inspiration was the concept of collective memory,” she continued. “Most of my work focuses on past experiences, memories, tying them to the present and archiving them in a contemporary manner.

“The main poster depicts the ‘gitra’ and ‘egal’ being waved in the air in a celebratory manner – which is something fans do here when a goal is scored. In another poster, we see two sisters cheering their brother on as he skillfully kicks the ball in the air – it shows that football in Qatar brings the whole family together.”

When asked how she felt to take part in a project for the first World Cup in the region, she said her feelings were ‘indescribable’. She explained: “I feel like I represent every Qatari and every Arab. I am beyond proud to leave my mark on this incredible milestone in my country’s history.”

Bouthayna hopes that the posters will resonate with the people of Qatar and visitors from around the world. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.FIFA.COM/TOURNAMENTS/MENS/ WORLDCUP/QATAR2022/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

DAZZLING DESIGNS M7 is presenting the work of rising local designers in an upcoming exhibition.

With the conclusion of its second Zwara Program, M7, Qatar’s hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion and technology, will present Doha Dreams, inspired by the recently held ‘Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams’ exhibition.

The Zwara Program was an open call to 60 participants from the fields of jewellery, art and design, of which seven were chosen to showcase their work at M7 until August 31.

For the programme’s second edition, candidates were taken on a tour of the Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams exhibition and then asked to reimagine Dior’s aesthetics in the context of local and contemporary design.

Layla Al-Ansari’s Palm Fronds is a gown made of wasted date palm fronds collected from Qatari farms and ‘Al Khoos’ mats. Inspired by Christian Dior’s love for flora and fauna, Layla designed the dress with florals in the shape of a desert rose, with beads and stone added to create an elegant finish.

Aliya Al-Obaidly’s Story of a Pearl is a graceful bridal gown that recounts the story of pearl diving, one of the most treasured traditions of Qatar. The accompanying veil is embroidered with the words of a song named Toob ya Bahar, performed by women during a ceremony at the end of the pearl diving season while they waited for their husbands to return home.

Mashael Al-Naimi designed a silk jacket which she named Henna, inspired by Dior’s New Look. The accompanying skirt was made with silk chiffon and the finest wool by a felt master in Georgia, creating a beautiful tapestry of the desert and dunes. This was adorned with a surface design of Qatar’s national flower, the Qataf.

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Nada Al Sulaiti’s Forget Me Not explores Dior’s New Look on a Qatari woman from the same era, showcasing how traditional craft and style can be influenced by contemporary design. Nada created myriad accessories, including a belt, scarf, brooch and sunglasses, with the aim of preserving Qatari heritage and reflecting the taste of the modern Qatari woman.

Haythem Sharrouf, an artist as well as an architect, was touched by the light and spiritual experience of florals in Dior’s exhibition. His Butterfly: Cocoon of Life – Art Installation displays a beautiful set of skirt and headpiece designed to create artefacts that can illuminate natural experiences, in this case butterflies being attracted to the floral garden of Dior.

Muna Saad’s Changing Courses explores the importance of heritage and modernity in Qatar. Her designs include a jacket made with sheep wool and skin, an ode to the significance of family farming, as well as a corset made with metal, symbolising the strength and determination of Qataris.

Maryam Al Majid was inspired by her own life and history when she created her Sparrow of the Sea. The half-Indian half-Qatari’s rich background is reflected in her jewellery designs, including a choker with the wings of a golden sparrow to represent India, and pearls to represent Qatar, creating a meaningful piece. ✤

GO: VISIT @M7.QATAR FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

IT’S PARTY TIME Doha Festival City is hosting a thrilling summer festival with a wide array of exciting activities for everyone.

Doha Festival City, one of the country’s biggest and most popular shopping malls, is hosting a thrilling summer festival until July 16, offering a jam-packed programme of fun, exciting activities and international entertainment performances.

This year’s edition is taking on a new theme, with footballrelated activities as the central focus. The festival will also host various Eid Al-Adha celebrations for everyone to enjoy.

Commenting on the festival’s announcement, Robert Hall, Festival City’s General Manager, said: “We are excited to announce the kick-off to our spectacular summer festival to celebrate the season with Qatar’s community. We look forward to seeing families and friends enjoy our special lineup of fun activities designed for all members of the society.”

Various award-winning, international. shows and fun football activities will take place at two locations in the mall, namely the Centre Court and the Entertainment Node, where children can enjoy multiple entertainment options.

The Centre Court is hosting shows three times daily, at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm. World-class acts are performing at the venue, including bubble-blowers, glass-balancers, hula-hoop performers, storm troopers and shadow artists.

Viewers can also enjoy the team of Kitchen Dancers, where performers wearing chef uniforms will show off juggling stunts using kitchen tools and utensils, in addition 14

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to a group of international football freestylers who will wow the crowds with their football juggling skills and tricks.

Football fans will have plenty of fun options to engage in the game such as foosball and virtual reality games from 10am to 11pm. There will also be a registration booth run by the Supreme Committee to onboard volunteers.

The children’s entertainment corner, open daily from 3pm to 11pm at the Entertainment Node, is offering arts and crafts activities, including face painting and balloon twisting, as well as special kids’ shows every weekend.

Children will also have the chance to meet their favourite cartoon characters. Additional activities such as henna painting and balloon shows will be available during the Eid festivities.

The five days of Eid al-Adha will be celebrated throughout the mall with parades by stilt walkers who will make the rounds to delight children and adults alike.

In line with the preventative measures set out by the State of Qatar to limit the spread of Covid-19, and to ensure a safe shopping environment for all, Doha Festival City is committed to continuous necessary health and safety measures throughout the mall. ✤

GO: CALL 4034 4444 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

NEW DEAL STRUCK Exhibitions The Big 5 and INDEX are set to return to Qatar in 2023, due to new partnership between NeXTfairs and dmg.

Leading international exhibitions company dmg events has signed a strategic partnership deal with local NeXTfairs to run The Big 5 Construct Qatar and INDEX Design Qatar in the third quarter of 2023.

Scheduled to take place from September 25 to 27 of 2023, this represents the latest move in dmg events’ regional portfolio expansion strategy.

The co-located trade shows will connect essential suppliers with trade buyers committed to Qatar’s development of infrastructure and offer companies a leadership platform and face-to-face business and networking opportunities.

Matt Denton, dmg events’ president, said: “With the latest World Bank insights forecasting continued positive GDP growth of 4.9% in 2023 amid Qatar’s ambitious ongoing Vision 2030 development plans, the time is right to accelerate opportunities for the regional construction and interiors industry by bringing back two of our most successful flagship brands to this dynamic market.

Together with NeXTfairs, we are also paving the way for the launch of other industry-critical events that will support Qatar’s pro-business tourism proposition and economic growth strategy.”

In its 2021 Qatar Construction Market - Growth, Trends, Covid-19 Impact & Forecast (2022-2027) report, Mordor Intelligence valued the market at $55 million in 2021, with a forecast 16

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value of US$76 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 10.54% over the period. A total of US$16.4 billion will be invested into infrastructure and real estate projects by 2025 under Qatar National Vision 2030. In addition, the pending ratification of a new law regulating public-private partnerships is set to further accelerate the sector’s opportunities.

Commenting on future event opportunities across a broad range of industry sectors, Rawad Sleem, Co-Founder and General Manager of NeXTfairs, said: “Exhibitions represent a major growth opportunity for Qatar, driving national economic development, contributing to trade, nvestment, innovation and more.”

The Big 5 events are an unmatched platform for the global construction industry to secure new business across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. Staged in Dubai since 1991 and welcoming thousands of trade visitors annually, INDEX Dubai is the largest and most significant international interior and fit-out trade show in the MENA region, connecting the world's leading brands and manufacturers with regional hospitality, residential, commercial and retail buyers. ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://NEXTFAIRS.COM/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PRINTEMPS SPOTLIGHT

A NEW LUXURY, PERSONALISED EXPERIENCE The newly launched Private Boutique by Printemps Doha offers customers a series of exclusive and limited-edition capsule collections online.

Klipsch

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rintemps Doha, set to be the largest luxury department store in the region, has launched online The Private Boutique, ahead of its opening in the third quarter of 2022. The unique e-tail destination has product exclusivities and committed customer relationships as its core offerings.

The products, available online for a limited time only, marry the qualities of functional expertise with fashion and style, allowing shoppers registered to Printemps.com to view the thoughtfully curated capsule collections chosen from over 50 brands – the finest in luxury and contemporary fashion, beauty, home and gastronomy.

A new selection from six brands will be unveiled every two weeks, all exclusive to Printemps in Doha. Prepared to match clients’ appetite for newness, these pieces will appeal to the most discerning eye, while their limited availability will build a sense of excitement among Qatar residents.

So, until the store opens, those who wish to preview the special pieces can book online an appointment with a dedicated personal shopper to see the products up close.

Thierry Prevost, General Manager of Printemps Doha, 18

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commented: "The Private Boutique is part of Printemps Doha's global vision to revamp the online shopping e-xperience, in line with the luxury codes of Printemps, through tightly-curated capsule collections or brands that will be exclusive to us in Qatar, and develop an ever more personalised and inclusive relationship with our clients."

BRANDS TO WATCH Klipsch, one of Printemps Doha’s exclusive home brands, offers world-class speakers and headphones that deliver the power of a live music experience. From great cinema options to home theatre speakers, soundbars, portable wireless speakers and studio-quality in-ear monitors, Klipsch has been delivering vibrant, true audio for the better part of a century.

The high-resolution connected speaker from Cabasse is another product featured in the online store, its technology used in the iconic Sphere speaker. With its powerful design and exceptional acoustics, due to its impressive tri-coaxial speaker, it meets the expectations of the most demanding audiophiles.

For those who have a sweet tooth or are seeking an exceptional gift, chocolate is often the answer. Private

PRINTEMPS SPOTLIGHT •

Cabasse

Boutique clients can enjoy sweet delights from Pierre Marcolini, who first established himself in Brussels in 1995.

The chocolatier, renowned for his exceptional know-how and engaged approach, has mastered the entire process of making chocolate using cocoa and other rare and exotic ingredients sourced directly from independent producers all around the world. Italian brand Cova, famed for its exceptional products and gift-perfect packaging, will also be offering its sweet delicacies for clients' enjoyment.

A women’s accessories brand created in 2016 in Paris by Geraldine Guyot and Aletitia Lumbroso, DESTREE offers unique, essential pieces with a graphic charm, combining clean shapes and singularity with a rebelliousness nestled in the detail of a colour.

Created by Malika Benshila, the Eye of Pink Heater is a multibrand concept that showcases the most cutting-edge jewellery designers from across the globe such as Bauce, Cedille, Lanzarope, N-ue and Tsura, giving them exposure via a highly curated setting scenography which aims to create a unique outlet for designers and emerging artists to shine.

Established in 1838, LÉTRANGE is one of the oldest leather goods makers in France. The seventh generation of a highly entrepreneurial family business, Sébastien Létrange took over

Destree

the reins of his family legacy, reviving LÉTRANGE and imposing a contemporary sensibility imbued with the highest standard of impeccable Parisian elegance.

Melis Goral is a third-generation jeweller from Istanbul. Her design aesthetic, using coloured gemstones such as malachite, lapis lazuli and black onyx, is an eloquent and contemporary take on the Art Deco movement. Her pieces capture effortless beauty transcending time, by blending graceful romanticism and compelling symmetry.

Proudly Arabian, Al Zain takes pride in quality and craftsmanship, passed down from grandfather to father and son. Producing jewellery of the highest standards ranging from bespoke pieces to traditional uniquely coloured and much sought after 21-carat gold, Al Zain manages to maintain its legacy, and imbues its Treasures of Arabia pieces with a modern sensitivity.

You will find all these and more at The Private Boutique by Printemps Doha. Stay tuned and follow @PrintempsDoha for more news in the coming months, including Printemps Doha's upcoming campaign. ✤

GO: VISIT PRINTEMPS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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BEACH MODE ON Qatar’s coastline is studded with beaches flanked by golden sands and gentle blue seas offering exquisite views, a range of land and water activities and off-beat attractions to enjoy and explore. We’ve rounded up some of our favourites for you to try as the temperatures soar.

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T

o those of you who are travelling this summer – we’re so jealous. But it’s heartening to know that many of you, like us, will be home-bound for the next two months. Come to think of it, that’s not such a bad thing. Boasting beautiful beaches, palatial, air-conditioned malls and exotic dining experiences, Qatar has all the trappings of an ideal summer destination.

If you feel beaches in the Gulf region are under explored, read on. In this feature, we will focus on our top picks of private and public ones in Qatar. Before we dive into it, a heads up: most places don’t have an official dress code but we recommend you check before you go. It’s always best to carry modest swimwear and a cover-up. We also suggest you find out if there’s a no petspolicy in case your furry friend plans on joining you.

FAMILY FUN IN THE SUN Um Bab Coast, often confused with Um Bab Beach, is located about an hour and a half drive from Lusail. If you’re looking for something that’s not too crowded, this is an ideal spot. The sea is usually calm and the water is warmer compared to the east coast, which is why we recommend visiting around sundown.

The sunsets here are mesmerising. Best accessed by a fourwheel drive, this beach is rocky and you may need to drive for a bit before finding the perfect spot to settle down. Carry your own supplies as the beach doesn’t have any and there aren’t any shops nearby.

Synonymous with family fun, Katara Beach, located at Katara Cultural Village, is one of Doha’s most beautiful public beaches.

Spanning 1.5km, it has exclusive areas for families and bachelors; there are separate entrances for each as well. There’s a nominal entry fee for adults and kids above seven years. You can enjoy a range of water activities such as knee-boarding, water-skiing, parasailing, jet-skiing and speed boat rides but you will need to rent out the equipment; it’s quite affordable. While there are age restrictions on water sports to ensure safety, there’s an extensive play area which children can enjoy after they’ve finished splashing around in the sea. A wide selection of cafés, food carts and fine-dining outlets are also available. While the beach is

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open for most of the day, swimming after sunset is prohibited.

Head to the beach club for a soothing spa treatment or some indoor fun at the infinity pool or café in case it gets too hot.

Frequented by locals and visitors alike, Al Ghariya Beach on the east coast is another family-friendly spot. Located about 90km north of Doha city, it permits a wide variety of outdoor activities – water scooting, paddle boating, volleyball, football…but you will need to bring your own equipment, as well as food. It’s worth mentioning that the water and beach are very clean despite being a public venue. Swim in the glistening turquoise waters and afterwards, chill under one of the umbrella shades. You could even camp here provided you bring your own gear.

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BEACHES WITH A DIFFERENCE Located about 80km away from Doha, Khor Al Udaid is an expanse of pristine sea and golden dunes. It’s best accessed by a four-wheel drive as the dunes reach dizzying heights of up to 40 metres. Declared a natural reserve in 2007, it’s home to a variety of fish including crustaceans, and turtles. You can fish here but you’ll need to bring your own equipment. Different types of birds such as terns, gulls, ospreys, flamingos and migratory waterfowl can also be found. Oryx and gazelles often wander by. The main highlight is the inland sea; in the morning, the sea advances on to the desert and in the evening, it recedes.

It’s a great spot to camp overnight and savour the sunrise; the wildlife is most active at this time. Sunsets at Khor Al Udaid are equally captivating.

Planning a girls-only trip? Head to Al Mamlha Beach, an exclusive beach for women, which opened in December last year. Spread across 15,000sq/m, it offers all the basic facilities such as washrooms and umbrella shades. It’s a great spot for a ladies’ barbecue night. The beach is fenced on the western side, providing that much more privacy and there are guards, also female. The beach uses solar lighting after sunset – we like the sustainable touch! It’s open daily, from 9am to 10pm and you can access it for a nominal entry fee for adults and children; boys over six years aren’t allowed.

Al Wakrah Beach, which is located about 30km from central Doha, opened a water walkway for people with special needs and the elderly in April. The 85-metre-long strip connects users to a point nearest to the sea, offering them a chance to experience it. The beach is some distance from the sea, so, you may have to walk a little to get to the shallow waters. The facilities are great and include a playground for children. Adults can enjoy a host of activities too – there’s a volleyball court and soccer pitch. Not the sporty type? Idle away under one of the 24

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gazebos or umbrellas, or simply stroll along the beach. As you walk, you will notice the sand’s golden gradient; it gets lighter and softer as you approach the sea. There’s a designated area for barbecues. Or you can save yourself the hassle and head to the promenade behind the beach. It’s lined with restaurants and cafés, serving a variety of cuisines including local, Indian, Italian and American. An interesting factoid: the name Wakrah is derived from the Arabic word wakar, which roughly translates to ‘bird's nest’.

About an hour’s drive from Doha, Fuwairit Beach, on the northeast coast, is a must-visit at this time of the year. It’s the season when the hawksbill turtles’ eggs hatch. Upcoming turtle encounters will be on July 5, 7 and 12 from 8pm to 9pm. However, you will need to register and be a Culture Pass Member, details for which are available on Qatar Museums’ website. There’s a lot more to look forward to at Fuwairit Beach after the hatching season, which ends in July. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, this is a kitesurfing hotspot. Fuwairit Kite Beach Resort will be opening soon. Expect a dreamy beach destination where you can stay, dine and kitesurf to your heart’s content. Until it opens, however, we recommend carrying your own supplies and you can still have an enjoyable day out.

Azerbaijani Beach is popular among locals, especially families.

The water is shallow, making it safe for children to swim. It used to be one of the less crowded beaches, but lately it has gained popularity as a camping destination. Picture this: you, taking a dip in the clear blue waters and then joining your friends for a barbecue dinner. Singing songs all night long and catching 26

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a picturesque sunrise…bliss! It’s an hour’s drive from Doha city. A caveat: there are no showers or toilets. There aren’t any convenience stores nearby either. But you can still spend some fun, happy hours here.

A PRIVATE AFFAIR Qatar offers something for every pocket. If you’re a luxury traveller or simply want a more private experience, then head to one of the many private beaches in the country. Some of our favourites include: The beach at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha. Set on a pristine stretch of private sand, it’s open daily from 6am to sunset. You will need a beach pass to get in. Water sports include everything from boat rides to adrenaline boosters such as wakeboarding, water-skiing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Sip on summery drinks and savour eclectic seafood and tapas at Lobito De Mar, a casual beach restaurant. You could also go to Public House Doha, a retro American diner and sports bar, which is located in a beach side setting.

Nestled in landscaped gardens with 500 metres of sandy beach, The Bay Club at InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa offers fun and relaxation in the sun. Get a membership to use the facility all summer or, if you’re planning just a day trip, you could get an entrance pass for a day. Water sports include jet skiing, wakeboarding, sailing and more. After working up an appetite, head to the pool bar where you can grab a bite or unwind with a summer mocktail.

Perched on Qatar's sunny southwest coastline, the picturesque Hilton Salwa Beach Resort is the ideal family location, though 28

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a trip with friends will be equally enjoyable. There’s a beautiful sandy beach that stretches across 3.5km adjoining this resort, which boasts the largest water park in Qatar. Have fun on the slides and scream your lungs out on the rides. Spend a day on the beach or by the pool and enjoy an array of dining experiences.

LOUNGE IN LUXURY The epitome of luxury, the Four Seasons Hotel Doha has a private beach and five pools, which offer respite from the summer heat.

Lounge under one of the private beachfront cabanas or lounge by the pool. Splash around for a bit and then sit back with a drink and sink your feet into the sand as you stare into the endless blue of the Arabian Gulf. You can order food from the many dining outlets and eat by the poolside.

The Ritz-Carlton Sharq Village, Doha has a private beach, offering splendid views that you can gaze at while you laze around, sipping on refreshing coolers from Al Seef pool bar. The bar also serves a selection of Arabic and continental bites to tide you over in case you feel a little peckish after a swim. Need a spot of sport? Indulge in water activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking. You could even unwind in their infinity pool. ✤

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DISCOVER THE ALL-NEW

INFINITI QX55 SENSORY EXPERIENCE Japanese heritage and style can be found in INFINITI’s latest luxury crossover coupé.

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CITY RIDES •

A

s the luxury vehicle division of the highly successful Japanese automaker, Nissan, the INFINITI brand is certainly associated with a respectable pedigree.

Having test driven both the INFINITI Q60 Sports Coupé and the INFINITI QX50 SUV in recent years, the FACT team had high expectations when handed the key to the all-new INFINITI QX 55 by the professional and friendly team at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. EXTERIOR As the only premium crossover coupé offered by a Japanese brand, the 2022 INFINITI QX55 is a unique creation, one that exudes performance-inspired styling from every angle. The all-new model connects the brand to its heritage with a modern interpretation of the stunning silhouette created by the INFINITI FX. Designed to resemble a Japanese bridge, the double-arch grille was the first feature to draw our full attention. With an origamiinspired mesh pattern that widens at the edges, the influence of the Japanese culture is on full display. This beautifully designed grille is flanked by standard LED headlights; cleverly crafted to imitate the human eye.

The elegant lines of the QX55 flow effortlessly from bonnet to boot, starting at the clamshell hood, and continuing above

the front wheels, across the doors and over the rear fenders.

Standard 20-inch alloy wheels, combined with the fastback roofline, enhance the bold and powerful stance of this fourdoor hatchback.

At the back end, the intricate arrangement of the distinctive taillights mimics the keys of a piano, combining 45 separate LEDs in a single casing. An uncluttered liftgate highlights the use of Japanese minimalism, whilst the INFINITI logo, located on the tailgate, houses the power liftgate release.

All-in-all, we found the QX55 to exhibit an aesthetically pleasing, powerful, yet elegant exterior design; one that hints at a highperformance driving experience.

INTERIOR Fortunate enough to be inspecting the top-class SENSORY trim model, it was only once we entered the QX55, that the premium nature of the vehicle was fully revealed. Welcomed by sculptured and ultra-comfortable front seating, complete with soft-touch panels, we had the perfect vantage point from which to appreciate the fine-detailing of the cabin.

The details of the interior have been intricately crafted, with full attention being given to every last feature. We loved the lasercut stitching used to create unconventional shapes on the seats, doors, panels and suede-topped dashboard. High-end materials fact magazine

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• CITY RIDES are present throughout the vehicle, including fancy, dark, openpore oak wood, used for the trimmings. The low height of the rear seats ensures sufficient leg, shoulder and head room is on offer for up to three adults. The rear seating has also been designed to slide both backwards and forwards, creating an extra six inches of either leg or storage space, depending on the occupants’ needs.

The luggage compartment offers a capacity of 762 litres, increased to 1,532 litres with the 60/40 rear split seating folded flat. This further adds to the practical nature of the vehicle.

A final notable internal feature of the QX55, is the three-zone fully automatic A/C with auto recirculation and ioniser. The harsh humidity was no match for this first-class climate control system.

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY INFINITI have included a dual-display infotainment system in the new QX55. This includes an eight-inch upper, colour, high-definition screen for navigation and backup camera displays, along with a seven-inch lower, colour, high-definition screen for system settings, climate control, audio and phone.

Both displays are conveniently located and showcase vibrant graphics and clear text.

This setup includes voice recognition technology and is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It allows hands-free text messaging, along with Bluetooth hands-free music streaming and calling. We found all this tech to be pretty straightforward and responsive.

Further convenience is provided through the steering-wheelmounted controls, and the remote control situated on the centre console. This provides easy access to various functions, including voice commands and the navigation map.

A 16-speaker Bose premium audio system is amongst the array of additional high-end features we uncovered.

seconds, as well as to produce a top speed of around 220km/h.

With a Drive Mode Selector offering four programmable settings, including Standard, Eco, Sport and Personal, we found this SUV to be both versatile and fuel-efficient.

The active noise cancellation system utilises the vehicle’s audio speakers to counterbalance any low-frequency sounds, whilst the active sound enhancement system intensifies the sporty nature of the engine. The result is a soothing yet exciting ride.

INFINITI have further added to the appeal of the QX55 by including an extensive range of safety and performance assist features designed to protect and serve at all times. These include Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Backup Collision Intervention, to name but a few.

OUR VERDICT The all-new INFINITI QX55 is not only easy on the eyes, but delivers comfort, convenience and high performance. ✤

POWER & PERFORMANCE The QX55 boasts an award-winning, Variable Compression Turbo, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine, that produces 268hp at 5,600rpm, and 280lb-ft of torque at 4,400rpm. Power streams through the Continuously Variable Transmission and is delivered to INFINITI’s standard Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. This configuration enables the SUV to accelerate from 0-100km/h in six-and-a-half

GO: CALL 4428 3366 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. 32

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The QX55 exhibits an aesthetically pleasing, powerful, yet elegant exterior design; one that hints at a highperformance driving experience.”

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• MOTORING NEWS

BEST OF THE BUNCH The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is the latest high-performance luxury SUV with gorgeous styling and lush features.

Named after Italy's highest mountain pass – over 20km long and with more than 75 hairpin turns – the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio comes with more standard convenience features and driver assistance systems, along with the Veloce and Veloce TI. In Qatar, the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio won the 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) for the ‘Best Compact Luxury SUV’.

The Stelvio Super, Veloce, Veloce TI, and the high-performance Stelvio Quadrifoglio are all available in Qatar through Alfardan Sports Motors who offer an industry-leading five-year or 120,000km (whichever comes first) warranty and service package on all models.

While the entry-level Stelvio Super gets 19-inch alloy wheels, the Veloce and Veloce TI variants feature 20-inch alloy wheels to complete the sporty look of these two options. The rangetopping Stelvio Quadrifoglio gets a choice of 20-inch or 21-inch alloy wheels — with the latter available in clear coat or burnished finish. A new Dark appearance package is also available for the Stelvio Veloce TI and includes a black glossy Scudetto grille, DLO, roof bars, exterior mirror caps and exhaust tips.

The 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio has premium leather upholstery and matching stitching, along with aluminum accents and wood surfaces in walnut or oak. An 8.8-inch touchscreen is available, with 3D navigation capabilities, and a seven-inch colour TFT instrument cluster.

The entry-level Stelvio Super has leather seats available in black, red or chocolate colour, power-folding exterior mirrors, aluminum door sills, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, remote 34

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start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, an eight-speaker sound system and electric-powered front seats with memory function.

The Veloce variant has a black headliner, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, six-way power sporty seats and a hands-free tailgate. The Veloce TI trim level adds sporty leather or Alcantara seats, eight-way electric-powered front seats, front and rear parking sensors, an air quality system, privacy glass for the rear windows and real carbon-fibre inserts.

On the safety front, the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio has Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Integrated Brake System (IBS) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) as standard. Key optional safety features include Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross-Path Detection.

The 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio has two engine options: four and sixcylinder mills. The Super, Veloce and Veloce TI models come fitted with a 2.0-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine, producing 280hp and 400Nm of torque. The four-cylinder unit enables the luxury SUV to go from 0 to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 230km/h.

If performance is your primary concern, you can opt for the Stelvio Quadrifoglio model powered by a V6, bi-turbo 2.9-litre engine, delivering 510hp and 600Nm of torque, allowing the mid-size SUV to go from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds, before maxing out at 283km/h. ✤ GO: CALL 44209169 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

MOTORING NEWS •

SPORTY AND STYLISH BENTLEY HAS ANNOUNCED ITS LATEST ADDITION – THE BENTAYGA S – THE MOST SPORTING OF BENTAYGAS. Bentley Motors has launched the new Bentayga S in the Middle East, bringing extra sporting agility and striking design.

Bentley’s renowned 4.0-litre, twin-scroll, turbocharged V8 petrol engine develops 770Nm of torque, with a 0 to 100km/h time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 290km/h. This class-leading performance is complemented by a range of 654km, with CO2 emissions of 294g/km. Deploying the power as effectively as possible, Bentley Dynamic Ride is fitted as standard and was the world’s first electric active roll control technology that utilises an unrivalled 48V system. The Bentayga S offers increased capability through an enhanced SPORT mode.

Providing an even more engaging drive, the Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti-roll control is fitted as standard with an enhanced sports chassis mode. Exterior features include new unique 22” wheels, innovative ‘S’ badges on the lower edge of the front doors, and Blackline Specification as standard, with dark tint lenses to head lamps and tail lamps, black door mirrors and black split oval tailpipes.

Inside a luxuriously refined cabin, a unique Bentayga S style can

be found using new seats, unique stitching, a new colour split and Alcantara to reflect the striking exterior. The vehicle is available in four, five or seven seat configurations.

The exterior design of the new Bentayga S is amplified by the ‘S’ with black treatment, matched with black door mirrors and black-painted side sills, all enhanced by dark tint treatment to the headlamps and elliptical tail lamps, and high gloss black on the lower bumper grilles.

The vehicle is available in three finishes: silver painted is standard, with full-gloss black or black and bright polished being optional. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.BENTLEYMOTORS.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

OVER LAND AND SEA

MASERATI AND NORTH SAILS APPAREL HAVE LAUNCHED A CAPSULE COLLECTION, HIGHLIGHTING VALUES OF EXCLUSIVITY, RESPONSIBILITY AND PERFORMANCE. In the latest edition of Pitti Uomo, one of the world's most important platforms for men's clothing and accessory collections, two titans of land and sea have united for the first time in a ground-breaking collaboration, bridging legacy and future-minded, ethically driven innovation. Maserati, the visionary automotive leader, has partnered with North Sails Apparel to launch a capsule collection comprising a selection of products designed around the shared values of exclusivity, responsibility and performance.

The two businesses have a long history of using advanced engineering to develop high-performance products both on and off the water, which are showcased in this collection.

The clothes are developed in future-fit materials, from organic and recycled cotton to Gore-Tex Infinium fit for performance.

Key pieces – from hybrid vests to an elevated update on the classic polo and a mobility-centred jacket in two lengths – capture the most relevant and acutely developed technologies available. Breathability, air permeability and durability are key considerations for this collection. The colour palette, a deep navy, crisp white, bold black and grey dawn, mixed with electric blue and the distinctive Maserati yellow, is refined and distinguished.

Davide Grasso, CEO of Maserati, commented: “Maserati is innovative

by nature and is looking ahead to the future. The partnership with North Sails emphasises the close links between [the brand and] Maserati; dynamic performance and technological innovation.”

This collection is technically innovative, with products that are also environmentally conscious, reinforcing North Sails’ motto ‘Embrace the spirit of the ocean. ✤ GO: VISIT MASERATI.COM OR WWW.NORTHSAILS.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• PLUGGED IN

FOR THOSE ON THE GO Acer has refreshed the TravelMate P4, TravelMate Spin P4 and TravelMate P2 Series business laptops.

Acer has released its latest range of TravelMate business laptops, offering users a varied choice of mobility and applicability. The collection includes TravelMate P4, TravelMate Spin P4 and TravelMate P2, each of which offers workers at the office or home durable machines with larger touchpads and quieter key presses.

The machines offer powerful performance with a high level of security against damage, including being bumped through an airport security checkpoint or being accidentally dropped, as well as enduring water spills and humidity, meeting MIL-STD 810H specifications.

Security additions include a SecureBio fingerprint reader and IR camera with a privacy shutter support Windows Hello for secure logins. All models offer advanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and optional LTE support.

The 14- and 16-inch TravelMate P4 and the 14-inch Spin P4 are available with either 12th Gen Intel Core i7 vPro or AMD Ryzen 7 PRO processors. The models deliver high-quality video conference performance with AI-powered noise reduction microphones, four upward speakers and built-in DTS Audio for distortion-free audio.

These laptops use up to 37.7% PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic and 100% recycled packaging materials.

The Spin P4 features an anti-glare display, can be rotated 360 degrees into laptop, stand, tent or tablet modes, and supports an AES 1.0 stylus for easy note taking.

The Acer TravelMate P2 business laptops feature a 180-degree hinge that opens flat and come in 14- and 15.6-inch versions powered by the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i7 vPro processors.

The devices feature PCR plastic throughout the chassis and an OceanGlass touchpad, made with ocean-bound plastic and a UV texture layer to provide a glass-like tactile feeling.✤ GO: VISIT WWW.ACER.AE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

LIKE MOSAIC TO MY EARS Meet the latest and best digital companion for all artists out there!

The Asus ProArt Display PA147CDV is a portable 14-inch 32:9 full HD touchscreen accessory for artists that acts as a secondary display. The new gadget connects to your laptop or PC and provides you with stylus support with customised controls optimised for those who work with Abode Photoshop and Lightroom Classic.

The 1920 x 550 IPS touchscreen is equipped with one HDMI port and two USB-C ports and its adjustable kickstand helps you situate it at the ideal angle for drawing, whether horizontally or vertically.

The ProArt Display PA147CDV is a portable 14-inch touchscreen monitor that has an ultra-wide aspect ratio (32:9). It connects to your laptop or desktop PC and provides creatives with stylus support, Asus's Dial and customised controls that are optimised for those working with programmes like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom Classic.

The monitor is designed to accommodate touch, pen support and a physical dial, and supports Microsoft's Pen Protocol 2.0, so it would work perfectly with a variety of styli.

ProArt monitors are perfected to take on any content creation workflow with ASUS HDR technology, industry-leading colour accuracy, factory pre-calibration, wide colour gamuts and rich connectivity. Other features include Capacitive 10-point multitouch and MPP 2.0 support. ✤ 36

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GO: VISIT WWW.ASUS.COM/PROART/DISPLAYS-HOME/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

PLUGGED IN •

ALL IN ONE Samsung’s new S-Series Soundbar S50B is the latest in audio technology, delivering an immersive and full experience.

Samsung has announced the arrival of its new S-Series Soundbar S50B. The device, combining the strength of each Samsung TV and Soundbar and installed with Q-Symphony, is designed with two built-in woofers and three mid-range tweeters, delivering a 3D cinematic experience and allowing users to revel in a rich room-filling holistic sound. It emits overhead sounds while ensuring dialogue remains clear and centred through clever sound processing and virtual DTS:X audio formats.

The speaker also has a built-in centre speaker delivering crystalclear dialogue, so you never miss a word of the latest news report or action-packed thriller. Spend less time rewinding and more time enjoying the movies and shows you love. The soundbar is powered by high-quality wireless HDMI connectivity to transmit sound digitally and provide you with the best possible audio experience.

Adaptive Sound Lite is always on, meaning the content you are watching will always sound its best with scenic intelligence powered by AI. Whether the director’s intent is to make you feel like part of the crowd or if you are required to feel like you are centre stage, the S50B will be sure to fulfil.

Avoid the mess of cables as you connect using Bluetooth to your

Samsung TV. Experience superb and precise sound that brings any TV show or movie to life. Built into a slender frame, the stylish device can go anywhere in the house and add a taste of luxury, the perfect addition when creating your dream home entertainment system. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.SAMSUNG.COM/UK/AUDIO-DEVICES/ SOUNDBAR/S50B-GRAY-HW-S50B-XU/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

STAY ALLERGEN- AND CARE-FREE Wyze, a company known for its smart home cameras, has shifted gears and put out a new air purifier.

The new device comes with three different filters: Allergen Standard, Formaldehyde Premium and Wildfire. Other filters are available to purchase. The air purifier works with the Wyze app, helping users control their device easily with in-depth, easy-toread indoor/outdoor AQ tracking.

Once it is set up it sends users real-time status updates as well as alerts when it needs cleaning. Each purifier can clean a 4.6sq/m room more than three times in an hour (350 m3/h CADR).

The Allergen filter cleans allergens and odours as well as bacteria and viruses from the air, while the Formaldehyde filter cleans pollutants as well as substances like formaldehyde. The Wildfire filter is added for special use and offers maximised protection against debris, gases and odours from fires.

The machine is as quiet as a whisper with its lowest level of noise being 21 decibels and its highest being 54 decibels. It has laser particle detection and also reports on the air quality in the room, measured by its Precision Sensors down to 0.3 microns. It sends allergen alerts so you can be sure to avoid having a stuffy nose.

All its filters are True HEPA with granulated carbon for 99.97% elimination of a wide range of irritants and pollutants. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.WYZE.COM/PRODUCTS/WYZE-AIR-PURIFIER FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS What’s on the smartphone agenda for July?

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Mint

Pocket

Mint is a free budgeting and personal finance app, set to help you spend responsibly and save efficiently. It offers a digital space to give you an overview of all your financial assets and expenditures, from cash to credit to loans to investments, so you know where you need to save. Track your spending, detect fraud and keep a good eye on rising subscription costs. The app also helps you find the savings you’ve missed, so you can accumulate more without having to go through the hassle of analysing the numbers yourself. Improve on your spending habits as you create custom goals for yourself. If you want to save for a particular thing, such as a home or to vanquish a debt, Mint has got you covered and will help you get to those targets.

View your monthly bills, set budgets and grow stronger money-saving skills with this personal accountant.

This app is like a personal library of interesting articles and reads, your own private corner of the web to spend time enriching your mind. Spot an interesting story? Save it on the app and read it whenever you want. It doesn’t matter if the webpage goes away, the story will still be there in the app waiting for you.

Forget the hassle of sending yourself links and having 100+ tabs open on your smartphone or computer.

Whenever you come across a long read, interview, article or even a recipe, save it on your personal Pocket library with just the touch of a button in your browser or in the app itself. You will also get recommendations based on your saved pieces as the app combs through the web to get the best articles for you. Tailor text sizes, font styles or viewing modes to make the experience suit your reading style, or you can even listen to articles if you’re too tired to strain your eyes. Place the articles in categories with curated tabs. Get the Premium version for some additional perks, including saving articles that have disappeared from the web, suggested tags, full-text search, unlimited highlights and premium fonts.

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with…

Meli Candela The dancing entrepreneur tells FACT how Candela Entertainment started and how it’s going today.

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5 OVER 5 •

How long have you been in Qatar and what first brought you here?

I have been in Qatar since 2008. I came with the idea of creating a Dance Salsa Scene, back then it was a very small community with no exposure to the world salsa scene. I also had a job, at the time, as risk manager in a bank. Soon things started picking up and I left my job and my professional career to do what I love – events and dancing as Salsa n Candela.

Before founding Candela Entertainment, your background was in banking and finance. What prompted you to make the switch?

Salsa n Candela was getting bigger and I started getting requests for different types of entertainment and acts, other than salsa and bachata, so I had to create a separate company with a name that explains what is does, which is purely entertainment. Therefore, Candela Entertainment.

The biggest flip for Candela Entertainment was when me and my partner Radi, who is also my husband, started The Backyard.

Honestly, we never expected that such a simple, casual event would go this far. We started The Backyard in a cosy garden at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, bringing rugs, cushions and furniture from our houses. We had a small budget for set up, the idea was to do a chill-out live music session outdoors where you come as you are, lie on the floor and sing and dance with your friends under those fairy lights. Soon the concept picked up so well and gained such popularity that we were getting more and more requests for bands, DJS, et cetera…

Having Radi as my partner plays a huge role, he is a singer and guitarist and has his own original band. He understood the market, knows all the local musicians and some internationals.

He was selecting the best of the best, looking for talents and working with them to be ready to perform, bringing bands such as Caracan Dream, Noemi Crus, Major Fifth, Tornado Band, Pablo Discobar, Faraway Martin and many others.

What is your favourite part of working within the entertainment industry? And also, the most challenging?

What we do Is not about providing entertainment, we develop shows. I focus on dance shows, as it is my expertise, and Radi on music. Today we work with more than 90% of the hotels and events in Doha and regularly supply them with our shows. Our strength is that we provide local acts which saves on costs and gives flexibility and quality.

Our biggest challenges include always having last-minute inquiries and having to adjust accordingly. Obtaining licences in Qatar is also a challenge. We try our best to educate our clients on the entertainment requirements. It’s not just a plug-and-play show, it needs practice, sound checks, rehearsals, proper sound et cetera.

Aside from your many other business interests, you also offer various dance classes. How did you become involved with this? Is dance a passion?

I have been dancing and teaching salsa since the year 2000. I travelled all over the world to learn, dance, teach and perform.

Since I arrived in Doha, I wanted to create this experience and bring this passion to the people who love dancing. Today, Salsa n Candela is a studio at Music & Arts Atelier. It is a music, dance

and art school located in The Gate Mall, we teach everything and for everyone – piano, guitar, drums, vocal, violin, salsa, bachata, tango, ballet, hip-hop, Oriental as well as arts and painting.

We also have baby music and sensory classes which are very popular and we have organised a summer camp this year which runs until August 18.

We organise weekly salsa nights here and there and I also have created my own dancewear brand called CANDELA'S offering Latin and ballet shoes, dance clothing and costumes, available at our studios at Music & Arts Atelier.

With your finger in so many pies, from a creative agency and events to dining, from arts to dance and even dancewear – you seem to be the definition of a true entrepreneur. What’s next for you?

For the past year, I have been managing a brand agency called Becreative and as well InnovationCafe. I found Becreative, a group of talented people doing beautiful work. With my experience in managing different businesses, I wanted to take Becreative to the next level, as it deserves. With the support and trust of the owners, myself and my team were able to do amazing work.

InnovationCafe is another unique concept, imagine you have an idea and you don’t know where to start; this is the place. You come to us and we develop it, guide it and launch it with you.

We provide consultancy, workshops and networking events. We also have a platform called connekters that provides training and hiring opportunities for interns.

I like to learn and try new things every day and I am open for any new opportunity that comes my way. What’s next is what will come next, I know I am in the right place and love what I do, and more things will keep coming. ✤ fact magazine

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FOOD MEETS TRAVEL FACT caught up with celeb chef David Myers as he visited Doha to launch his new restaurant, ADRIFT, at Le Royal Méridien Doha.

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CHEF IN FOCUS •

You originally went for business studies. What tempted you out of the office environment and into the kitchen?

Growing up, I always envisioned myself having this big, important job that would allow me to travel around the world, which is why I chose to go to school to study International Business at OSU. But, once there, I found myself spending way more time reading cook books than studying for my actual exams. I would spend most of my days experimenting in the kitchen and then hosted these big feasts in the evenings for all my friends. Eventually it just hit me that ‘this is exactly what I want to do in life!’. So, I quit international business and started working in a kitchen to train to be a chef. Today, after having opened restaurants in different countries across three continents, I often joke and say that those semesters of studying international business did at least pay off in the end, and my job most definitely involves travel!

Who were your main mentors and what were the important lessons you learned from them?

I consider myself to be a lifelong student, and I always look for places and people to learn from wherever I go. But the one mentor who’s had a huge influence on my career as well as my personal life is the late Charlie Trotter. His restaurant, Charlie Trotter’s in Chicago, was the first restaurant I worked in. It was considered one of the best kitchens in America – and the world – at the time. It was an absolutely life-changing experience, like getting my MBA from the Harvard of kitchens. Charlie was a meticulous teacher and mentor who taught me about resilience, grit and the pursuit of excellence in the kitchen. I’m forever grateful for everything that Charlie taught me.

Why are you known as the Gypsy Chef? And is this where the concept for Adrift came from?

I’ve been travelling extensively across the world for the past 15 years, it’s my number one passion that really fuels my creativity as a chef. Before the pandemic, I would be on the road nearly 50 weeks out of the year, boarding a new flight every few days. So, a few years back, I was talking to a friend of mine back home in LA, and told him I’d just got back from Singapore and Tokyo and was off to Dubai and Sri Lanka next. And he just said ‘man, you’re such a Gypsy Chef!’. And it just stuck with me since then. It’s a sort of nod to my nomadic life and love for the open road. I’m in the process of launching my new YouTube channel, GC Studio which will feature all of my travel videos and other food- and travel-related content. ADRIFT, on the other hand, is a restaurant brand that I first created in Singapore in 2015. The original ADRIFT restaurant at the iconic Marina Bay Sands was this playful Californian izakaya that showcased some of my influences from Japan, but also from across Asia. The idea behind the name ADRIFT is that it’s created for the wanderers, dreamers and explorers who seek the thrill of new and unexpected experiences. ADRIFT has since grown into a collection of different concepts that all share the same core and DNA, such as our service ethos and overall ambience, but that showcase different cuisines that I’ve come across during my travels.

We understand the idea was born on a journey around Italy.

Please can you tell us a bit more about that?

A few years ago, I was asked to create a new Italian restaurant concept for a hotel in Dubai and, having travelled to Italy fact magazine

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• CHEF IN FOCUS What made you decide on Qatar for your next venture (and why the addition of Anda to the name)?

I got approached to do this project thanks to an existing relationship with Marriott International in the Middle East and Asia. They were familiar with my other restaurants and asked if I would bring an ADRIFT concept to Doha, and I was thrilled for the opportunity to dive into a new market! ADRIFT is what I like to call an ‘umbrella brand’ that houses a number of different sub-brands that each showcase a different type of cuisine. For example, our most recent project was ADRIFT Kaya, a modern Japanese izakaya in New Delhi, and prior to that we launched ADRIFT Burger Bar in LA and Dubai. We have a couple of other ADRIFT brands in the making that we can hopefully reveal more details about very soon.

previously and being a big fan of the food, I jumped at the opportunity. Knowing how serious and passionate Italians are about their cuisine, I wanted to ensure that what I created was authentic and honest, and that it celebrated the very best of Italy rather than trying to reinvent a wheel that’s been working absolutely fine for centuries.

So, I travelled to Italy together with the head chef of the restaurant – who was Italian himself. Italy is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions that are heavily based on the best produce that’s available in each of its regions. I knew that there were three signature styles of Italian cooking that I wanted to showcase: the famous Roman pastas, the Neapolitan-style pizzas and the Bistecca Fiorentina.

So, we first travelled to Naples where we enjoyed some of the best pizzas I’ve had. They’re known for their pizzas that are cooked for a minute, tops, in a really hot oven, resulting in a slightly burnt crust but a thin centre, topped with just a few ingredients. We then went on to Rome to experience their traditional pastas, which are typically made up with just a handful of ingredients but pack a tonne of flavour. We finally headed for Florence to learn more about the local traditions around the famed Bistecca Fiorentina.

On the train back to Rome from Tuscany, filled with inspiration from our journey, we drafted the core idea for the menu on a napkin. And that very same menu now makes up the foundation for our menu at ADRIFT Anda.

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Will you be making any adjustments to the menu specifically for the Qatar market? And, if yes, what will these be?

One thing that I have learned over the years while opening restaurants across three continents is that you have to learn to adapt and be flexible in how you execute your vision. Not necessarily in terms of the core identity of your menu, but rather in what type of ingredients you use based on what’s available locally and what’s in season. One thing I never compromise on is quality, so if we’re not able to get the right ingredient for a dish, then we replace that dish with something different instead. I also make an effort to learn a little bit about the local palate and understand if guests prefer their food with a bit more salt, or perhaps have a sweet tooth or like a bit of spice. But we never waver from the brand itself and the DNA of the restaurant concept. We stay true to who we are and share the ADRIFT dining experience in its most authentic form with our guests for them to enjoy.

CHEF IN FOCUS •

Have you had much chance to get out and about in Qatar and, if yes, what would you recommend all visitors to see or do?

Let me tell you; I’ve had some fantastic experiences in Qatar so far! Of course, there is a lot of work involved in opening a new restaurant but I’ve had the opportunity to go and visit one of the farms that we source some of our vegetables from and meet the people who cultivate the crops. I also went to the famous Souq Wafiq, where I got to meet the first ever female business owner in Qatar. She was one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever come across, her story was so inspiring and I was so moved by her hospitality and generousity, so I invited her to be one of the first guests to experience ADRIFT Anda! In general, people have been so hospitable and welcoming here in Doha. I can’t wait to spend more time here!

When you are not in the kitchen or travelling, what are your favourite pass times?

Next to travel and food, surfing is my passion. I love the sea, I live near the sea. It’s a place where I can truly connect with nature and wind down. Some of my favorite places to surf are Sri Lanka and Bali.

What dish would you serve to friends/family at home?

And why?

Whenever I’m back home in LA, the first thing I do is fire up the grill and invite my friends and family over for a laid-back steak dinner. I love cooking with live fire, both at home and at my restaurants, so this is the ultimate home-cooked comfort meal to me.

Three words you would use to describe the food in all your many kitchens?

Fun, fresh and vibrant. ✤ fact magazine

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

A LESSON IN

SUBCONTINENTAL FLAVOURS Kalvin Ng headed to the new Royal Indian Night at Sirocco to sample fresh and favourite tastes from the Indian kitchen.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

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hile I enjoy the huge variety of flavours from the subcontinent, I’d most likely struggle to recall the names of my favourite dishes off the top of my head, nor would I be able to tell you about their origins. The new ‘Royal Indian Night’ at Sirocco in the Holiday Inn Doha – The Business Park, seemed to be the ideal opportunity to revisit familiar favourites and try new ones while learning a little along the way.

The pan-Indian buffet on Fridays, along with Thursday’s ‘Seafood Night’, signal Sirocco’s return after being closed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The concept was designed to allow diners to sample a range of dishes from north to south, taking in all the different elements of regional specialities along the way.

The restaurant is light and spacious, with plenty of room for families and casual diners and on entering, we were welcomed by a Rangoli on the floor: a beautiful arrangement of flower petals, candles and colourful sand said to bring good luck and prosperity. For me, it also brought me a healthy appetite.

Our waitress, Joy, lived up to her name by being an absolute pleasure attending to all our requests.

We started our journey with refreshing welcoming drinks including Saffron and Mango Lassi, followed by a Kachumbar salad of tomatoes, cucumbers and chilli. The Aloo and Chana Chaats were a great introduction to Indian street snacks. For more, we headed to the dedicated Chaat Station, where the chef explained the intricacies of Papdi Chaat and Pani Poori: bite-sized, crispy flatbreads with a variety of toppings, herbs and yoghurt.

The pakora and samosas were deliciously golden and crispy.

The mixed grill live station was a standout, with some of the most

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT flavoursome fish tikka and mutton seekh kabab I’ve ever tasted.

However, a real highlight was the curries and biryani on offer.

The butter chicken was beautifully creamy with just enough bite to keep things interesting. The Palak Paneer – spinach paneer – reminded me of why I’m a fan of paneer, mild but with the bitterness of the spinach adding a second layer to the flavour.

The Rara Ghost was a deliciously rich and comforting mutton dish, full of flavour with a perfect harmony of spices, while the chicken and vegetable biryanis were light and fluffy.

The buffet format allowed me to taste dishes I had never tried before and, as I mentioned above, it allows the perfect opportunity for small portions of lots of different dishes for those who want to get better acquainted with the many and varied flavours of the subcontinent. Next time I’m at an Indian restaurant, I’ll be sure to order those new dishes instead of my usual selections.

By now, the waistband of my trousers was struggling to hold on. However, I couldn’t resist having at least a little dessert. Or a lot. The Rasmalai cheese dumplings in cardamom and saffroninfused milk were wonderfully delicate and spongy, while the Gulab Jamun featured fried dough balls in a light, rose-flavoured syrup. If you’re in the mood for ice cream, don’t miss out on a Kulfi, a slightly denser ice cream on a popsicle. It was even served in a dedicated cart with a range of toppings. You can also enjoy chocolate fountains with marshmallows, as well as a variety of cakes and sweets. A delicious masala chai ended the dinner on a perfect note.

Sirocco’s Indian Night is definitely a feast for the senses, with plenty of choices to satisfy different tastes. ✤

GO: CALL OR WHATSAPP 5007 8212 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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FLYING THE FLAG Kalvin Ng headed to the Highlands to try out the fare of the recently reopened Frying Scotsman.

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ON THE MENU •

I

like a good pun involving food, and the name of The Frying Scotsman, in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha, fits the bill nicely. Named after ‘The Flying Scotsman’, the famous passenger locomotive linking Edinburgh and London in the early 20th century, the restaurant is fun and a great place for the family: kids, train enthusiasts and the young at heart will enjoy the two model trains running along the ceiling as you eat.

The Frying Scotsman was the brainchild of one of the hotel’s chefs, who is from Scotland himself. The restaurant recently reopened after being closed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Hotel manager Emre Kocamustafaogullari explained that the Radisson Blu has been slowly refreshing its food and beverage venues while opening new concepts in time for the FIFA World Cup in November.

The Frying Scotsman promises the best fish and chips in Doha and ‘the Ultimate British experience’, which included Union Jack bunting along the model train rail track, tartan-covered chairs and friendly, tartan-clad waitstaff.

Although fish and chips is often thought of as a cheap and easy meal, a lot of things can easily go wrong for such a humble dish. The simplest things can often be the hardest.

The Frying Scotsman offers three types of fish: cod, haddock and hammour, in a nod to the local produce. The fish is delivered fresh on the day, coated in a special ale batter, perfectly deep fried to order and served with mushy peas, traditional tartare sauce and thick-cut chips - not skinny fries - just as a good fish and chips should be, it even came with the traditional British newspaper wrapping. fact magazine

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• ON THE MENU

I tried the cod and hammour. The cod was fresh, soft and flaky.

The hammour was firmer and had a slightly meatier taste, but both were expertly fried. The tartness of the tartare sauce cut through the crispy batter nicely, as did the side order of pickled onions. The chips were firm and fried to perfection.

With one British classic down, it was time to try another, the Beef and Potato Pie, which was hearty and comforting, with a handmade pie crust, flavoursome beef mince and soft, fluffy mashed potatoes on top. The seasoning of the mince made this a perfect dish to just sit in the air-conditioned coolness, dreaming of comforting green pastures and forgetting the unforgiving desert temperatures outside.

The Frying Scotsman’s carefully curated menu also includes a small selection of salads and add-ons such as lobster bisque.

There are additional pies and other very British dishes on the menu but, by this point, I was saving space for the sweet selection and one very particular item.

The dessert menu features one of Scotland’s most infamous culinary exports. In fact, any visitor north of the border will inevitably be asked: “Have you tried a deep-fried Mars bar?” I had never indulged on my many visits to the country, so I’m glad to say that I’ve finally tasted one, in Doha. It was interesting to taste the combination of a deep-fried crust with the softness of a Mars bar along with vanilla ice cream. If this isn’t really to your taste, you can also choose to have a deliciously soft and gooey sticky toffee pudding, or a selection of ice creams.

The Frying Scotsman, far from being a gimmick, serves up tasty British culinary classics in a cosy, casual setting. And with the recent refit, it is even more welcoming and fun than ever. The best fish and chips in Doha? Well, I’ll leave you to decide on that, but I was certainly impressed. ✤

GO: CALL 4428 1555 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. 52

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A SOCIAL AFFAIR Ailsa Whyatt found a warm welcome at The Social – voco Doha West Bay Suites.

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DINING DELIGHT •

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onday evening finds us at The Social – voco Doha West Bay Suites, where we are given a warm Qatari greeting by Assistant Restaurant Manager, Zaka Gamal. Teal furniture, paintings artfully positioned under wall arches and wall arches and a bright space add to the welcoming feel..

We start with a Strawberry Virgin Mojito, which is both citrusy and refreshing, and we just have time to look at the buffet spread (savouries on one side of the restaurant and sweets on the other), before our à la carte food arrives.

Dishes are served on a hearty selection of earthenware, in an array of colours, which is both homely and unfussy.

We are treated to a selection of so many things that I’m going to give you a list! The portions are generous, so my recommendation is not to do what we did, making our tummies groan as much as the table!

Head Chef Salvador and Assistant Chef Walid have been hard at work for us. Nothing is prepared in advance here; everything is absolutely made to order and and totally delicious.

First up - the Creamy Mushroom Soup. Seasoned with pepper and drizzles of cream, this is the kind of comfort food I like best. A toasted bread crouton containing walnuts and dressed with watercress sets off the lovely mushroom flavours.

Salads are served next – we try the Chicken Caesar and the Classic Niçoise. Both contain all the elements you would wish for, from the nicely peppery chicken in a creamy and garlicky sauce, to the al dente asparagus, mangetout, green beans

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• DINING DELIGHT (the way we like them) and lemon dressing to cut through the tuna, egg and potatoes of the Niçoise.

Sujuk Tortilla Wrap sees fresh Sujuk sausage and minced beef mixed with tomatoes, onions, Arabic spices and cumin, and garnished with fresh parsley, in what Chef Salvador has dubbed a ‘Competition Sauce’, where big flavours ‘compete’ with one another to produce a dish that is both cohesive and comforting.

This is then followed by the Flat Bread Alfredo, with its freshly made dough straight out of the oven. This hearty flat bread is filled with grilled chicken, mushrooms, peppery micro-herbs and topped with generous, tangy parmesan shavings. Yum! Next, we try Black Angus Steak and Miso-glazed Salmon Fillet. The tenderloin is cooked to our liking; a soft and tender blackened steak with a mushroom sauce and seasoned creamy mash. The pan-seared salmon has a gentle crunch on the outside, whilst tender on the inside, and engulfed in a sweet miso sauce. Both are served with more of those lovely al dente vegetables.

If you are in a sharing mood, there is a selection of sharing platters available. We try The Social Platter and Battered Seafood Platter. The Social Platter boasts spicy buffalo chicken, cheesy quesadillas, potato skins with steak and mozzarella, melty mozzarella sticks are served with Pico De Gallo (a Mexican salsa), guacamole and sour cream. In the seafood corner we have deep-fried shrimps, calamari and breaded fish balls comprised of salmon, hamour, shrimp, spring onions and some special spices from Chef Salvador, served with a thick tartare sauce and lemon wedges.

We are almost at the finish line, and what a finish it is.

Decadent Chocolate Brownie and Dulche de Leche Cheesecake (my star of this meal). The chocolate brownie is served cold, while maintaining its gooey texture, with added crunch of walnuts. Sitting on top is a boule of home-made ice cream, encased with tempered chocolate bearing raspberry, blackberry and mint leaves. Vanilla sauce (made with milk and crème fraiche) cuts through the sweetness of this brownie.

Dulche de Leche Cheesecake, a favourite of Latin American desserts, is made by slowly heating milk and sugar together over several hours, to create a gloriously gluttonous caramel sauce. Chef Salvador has mixed dulce de leche with (more!) caramel sauce and lotus sauce, then covered the baked cheesecake as a result. Crushed biscuits and dark chocolate pearls surround the dish. It is a portion for the hungry so make sure you leave room!

For hotel guests and visitors alike, there is something on this menu to please everyone. Whether you sample the buffet or the à la carte menu, you have to bring your appetite, and expect a hospitable welcome to The Social. ✤

GO: CALL 4495-5115 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. 56

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A CULINARY JOURNEY Homara Choudhary took a foodie trip across the Levant with an evening at Levantine.

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FOODIE CORNER •

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erched along the southern coast of Qatar, the Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas is one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East. Sprawling across 3.5 kilometres of pristine coastline, it's the first leisure and holiday destination in the Gulf state and it takes just over an hour from Doha to reach this magical palace by the sea.

Upon arriving at the resort, I was struck by its unique structure and size. The bright white and blue exterior combined with traditional Arabian heritage was palatial. As I walked towards reception, the airy interior made me feel like I had been taken back in time, transporting me to a Mughal palace.

Beautiful Middle Eastern inspired chandeliers hung from the high ceilings and complemented the stunning arches and cream marble floors. The blue Mediterranean mosaic tiles matched the sophisticated eastern design giving it a tranquil ambience.

After a visit to the spa and a swim at the beach, I had worked up an appetite for dinner and was excited to try Levantine. As the name suggests, the restaurant offers unique foods from all over the Levant, including Palestine, Jordan, Iran, Turkey, Syria and Lebanon as well as local favourites from Qatar.

As we entered we dipped and washed our hands in specially prepared rose water, petals floating in the copper basin. Ali, the Lebanese restaurant supervisor, said this was a special welcoming custom, particularly in his home country.

The restaurant has a live kitchen and is divided in two parts.

There’s an area for formal dining, where you can be mesmerised watching chefs preparing your evening meal. There’s also a fact magazine

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• FOODIE CORNER private dining area here for families. The other portion of the restaurant is slightly more casual and vibrant, and included a well-ventilated lounge for hubbly bubbly fans at the far end.

Ali talked us through the menu after sending over some complimentary Saaj bread stuffed with cheese and zaatar. The texture of the bread was light and fluffy and extremely filling.

Our attendant Nur took our order and we decided on a selection of hot and cold mezze to begin our culinary journey through the Levant.

The Muhammara, made with peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs and pomegranate molasses, was packed with flavour and delicious. The Hummus Kaleidoscope came next. It contained Hummus from six countries in the region, including Palestine, Turkey and Syria. Each had its own twist on this Middle Eastern staple. My favourite was the Hummus Bil Lahmeh with braised lamb and pine seeds. The lamb was deliciously soft and the hummus was smooth. We devoured each one with a basket of hot bread.

There aren’t many restaurants that serve local cuisine so I was keen to try a dish from the Qatari section of the menu. I opted for the Djaj Bil Roub, a grilled boneless baby chicken, marinated in yoghurt, saffron and onions and served with potatoes and broccoli. The chicken was soft and tender, falling off the fork. The yoghurt complemented the spices and the steamed broccoli gave it a divine western twist.

Chef Annas Shaheen, originally from Palestine, brought out my personal favourite dish, the traditional Kibbeh. Made from bulgur wheat, onions and pine seeds, these popular starters were stuffed with minced lamb not beef. Chef Annas revealed he made each one with special care. “I make them at home, they are literally home-made. I love making them and you can see they’re not all the same size.” I was surprised to learn they also take around two days to make. Chef Annas said they were popular because the food at Levantine is literally; “from the heart to home.” No wonder they were delicious.

The Levantine Mixed Grill was brought out next. A gently steaming platter of tender lamb chops, chicken shish taouk, beef kebabs and more, all heaped on a bed of ouzi rice. Succulent and juicy, the mixed grill is a classic dish superbly done.

A pause was needed before dessert and, oh, was it worth the wait.

Two of Levantine’s signature dishes were placed before us and they were something to behold. Creamy Knafeh Nabulsiyeh was the first, accompanied with a serving of pistachio ice cream. This is a popular dish and Levantine rightly takes pride in its rich texture.

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The Chocolate Date Pudding, however, was insane. A dark chocolate pudding was served, a side of vanilla ice cream and a Medjoul date delicately perched on top. It arrived amidst a cloud of dry ice. A fun piece of theatre for a truly stunning dessert. The pudding itself split apart on the first touch, as the warm liquid centre ran out, mingling with the ice cream. I was told my pupils actually dilated when I took my first bite. Heaven.

This was a truly memorable meal. The staff were extremely kind and attentive, with suggestions and recommendations on hand when we asked for them. This is not a meal to be rushed but one to truly savour. The superb quality of the various dishes would delight anyone from the Levant and thrill anyone who was experiencing the cuisine for the first time.✤

GO: CALL 4423 6666 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• DINING DEALS

FEASTS GALORE

Tuck into this month’s selection of special offers, including Eid al-Adha celebrations and grand summer brunches.

ALWADI DOHA - MGALLERY HOTEL COLLECTION O’Glacée Restaurant Enjoy the Flavours of India, specially curated for Indian street food lovers. Delight in food from a selection of starters, sumptuous mains and mouth-watering desserts. The offer runs every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at QR160 per person.

GO: Call 4009 9666, WhatsApp 3075 8211 or email restaurants.alwadihotel@accor.com for more information or to make a reservation.

ALWADI DOHA - MGALLERY HOTEL COLLECTION Levantine restaurant Enjoy a Saturday Family Brunch with a vast selection of local and international favourites, including mixed grills, and fantastic live entertainment at the still-to-be-named new restaurant. The offer runs every Saturday from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR250 per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR299 per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 4009 9666, WhatsApp 3075 8211 or email restaurants.alwadihotel@accor.com for more information or to make a reservation.

CENTARA WEST BAY HOTEL & RESIDENCES DOHA Dalchini Restaurant Don’t miss out on Dalchini’s Eid brunch where you can enjoy great vibes and a delicious progressive Indian menu curated 62

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by Michelin-Starred Chef Alfred Prasad and his talented team.

The offer runs from July 10 to 12, 12pm to 3.30pm, and is priced at QR199 per person for food only, QR249 for two, inclusive of soft beverages, QR149 per person inclusive of soft beverages, and QR249 per person inclusive of selected beverages. Children aged six to 12 receive a 50% discount and children under the age of six dine for free.

GO: Call 4009 5520 or WhatsApp 3001 5360 for more information or to make a reservation.

DINING DEALS •

CENTARA WEST BAY HOTEL & RESIDENCES DOHA Thai Kitchen Restaurant & Bar Indulge in a delicious spread of authentic Thai dishes from a trendy tabletop buffet concept at Thai Kitchen Night. Savour your favourite items with unique cooking by talented Thai chefs, including a delectable and refillable selection of starters, soups, mains and desserts. The offer runs every Thursday from 6.30pm to 10.30pm and is priced at QR88 per person for unlimited food only or QR169 per person inclusive of soft and selected beverages for two hours straight.

GO: Call 4009 5530 or WhatsApp 3001 5360 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Elements Sail over to a Seafood Night at Elements and enjoy a delicious seafood buffet including a wide selection of seafood favourites including salmon, shrimps, lobster, oysters and more. The offer runs every Wednesday from 7pm to 10.30pm and is priced at QR295 per person, inclusive of local water, and QR485 per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 4494 8600 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Nobu The famous Nobu Doha is offering an elite brunch with a wide selection of Nobu’s speciality dishes. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at QR345 for the regular package, QR525 for the sparkling beverages package, and QR650 for the enhanced beverages package.

GO: Call 4494 8600 for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON DOHA THE PEARL HOTEL & RESIDENCES Mulberry Tavern Are you new in Doha? Do you want to make new friends? Join the Mulberry Tavern to make new connections as you enjoy games, sharing platters and all-day Happy Hour offers. You will also get tips about Qatar! If it is your first time, Mulberry Tavern will have a welcome gift for you! The offer runs every Monday from 3pm to 12am and includes beverages with prices starting at QR35.

GO: Call 4492 4610 or WhatsApp 3159 4737 for more information or to make a reservation. .

Middle Eastern dishes. With its cosy cabana seating, it is the ideal option to catch live sports matches on multiple screens with friends and family. Expect a menu packed with a delicious range of light hot and cold bites, from fresh oven-baked flatbreads and kebab platters to mixed grilled meats and refreshing beverages, all of which are served sharing-style. The offer runs daily from 12pm to 2am and is priced à la carte.

GO: Call 4141 1234, WhatsApp 6608 5806 or visit hyattrestaurants. com for more information or to make a reservation.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Choices Join Choices with your family to celebrate Eid with a special Eid al-Adha Brunch, showcasing traditional Arabic and international dishes and a lavish buffet spread alongside live cooking stations.

Guests will be able to choose from a selection of hot and cold dishes, local favourites, Arabic sweets and much more. The offer runs from July 11 to 14 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at QR295 per person inclusive of soft beverages, QR145 per child aged six to 11, QR75 per child aged three to five, and QR165 for a top-up per person on selected beverages.

GO: Call 4141 1234, WhatsApp 6608 5806 orvisit hyattrestaurants. com for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON DOHA THE PEARL HOTEL & RESIDENCES Levantine It's Mezze Hour at Levantine! Embark on a journey of flavours.

Indulge in an assortment of Lebanese bites to pair with a selection of blends as you tap your feet to the beats of a live DJ. The offer runs daily from 5pm to 8pm and is priced at QR26 with drinks having starting prices of QR30.

GO: Call 4492 4620 or WhatsApp 3159 4739 for more information or to make a reservation.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Al Nafourah Garden Join Al Nafourah for a hearty taste of traditional Lebanese and

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Summer Special The Summer Resident Rate offer is available until the end of summer 2022. Guests are invited to unwind, relax and take advantage of a seamless and refreshing staycation for two with a sumptuous and hearty buffet breakfast at Choices.

Guests can also recharge their body, mind and soul through a range of rejuvenating massage treatments and the recreational facilities at Club Olympus Spa & Fitness. The offer includes a discount of up to 20% on food & beverage and massage treatments and will be eligible for World of Hyatt points.

GO: visit hyattregencyoryxdoha.com and use code STCN. fact magazine

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JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Fuego Impress partners or dine with friends at Fuego and enjoy the Express Dinner menu, featuring exceptional Latin American flavours. The offer runs from Sunday to Thursday, 5pm to 8pm, and has prices starting from QR120.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL New York Steakhouse Celebrate the festivities of Eid al-Adha at New York Steakhouse with the all-time-favourite Big Apple Brunch Eid-Edition. The family-friendly brunch celebrates swish dishes like Wall Street Benedict and Williamsburg Standard Toast, expertly grilled steaks cooked from prime cuts of meat, oceanic favourites, deliciously blended salads, and an exclusive selection of desserts to top of your feast. Wash your brunch down with a selection of speciality drinks, mocktails and live entertainment by a jazz duo. The offer runs on July 12 from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR495 per person inclusive of soft beverages and QR595 per person inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

La Mar Gather your friends and family and celebrate Peruvian Independence Day with a special menu. The offer runs on July 28 and is priced at QR450 per person, inclusive of a welcome drink and live entertainment.

GO: Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

Ipanema If you are looking for a truly Brazilian Churrascaria experience this Eid al-Adha, Ipanema’s Eid-Edition Rio Carnival Brunch is the place for you. Enjoy traditional appetisers, succulent skewered meats, delicious seafood selections, fresh fruit dishes and wonderfully crisp and fresh salads. Put on your samba shoes and get ready to revel at the most famous carnival in the world without leaving Doha! The offer runs on July 11 from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR295 per person for food only and QR395 per person inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA Mykonos Fisherman’s Weekend is back at Mykonos. Guests can choose from the fresh catch of the day on display, served grilled with steamed vegetables, olive oil and lemon sauce. The offer runs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday for dinner from 7pm to 11pm, and is priced per weight per fish available.

GO: Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTRE DOHA Shanghai Club A new set menu curated by world-renowned chef Peter Lloyd, from the award-winning Sticky Mango, London, is here. Step into a reimagined culinary experience with the world-renowned chef and let him take your dining experience to new heights at Shanghai Club with the city skyline glittering in the background and live entertainment. The offer runs from Sunday to Friday, 6pm to 11pm, and is priced at QR250 for a two-course menu and QR350 for a three-course menu.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

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MONDRIAN DOHA CUT by Wolfgang Puck Celebrate American Independence Day at CUT by Wolfgang Puck as you dig into an American-style sharing barbecue menu.

The offer runs on July 4 from 12pm to 3pm for lunch and 6pm to 11pm for dinner and is priced at QR155, and an additional QR25 per bottle of hops for anyone feeling thirsty!

GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a reservation. .

MONDRIAN DOHA Hudson Tavern Keep it fun and satisfy your cravings with Hudson Tavern’s Lucky Menu. The offer runs daily, available from Sunday to Wednesday from 4pm to 1am, on Thursday from 4pm to 2am, on Friday from 12.30pm to 2am, and on Saturday from 12.30pm to 1am, and is priced at QR255, inclusive of five sliders, five wings and five hops.

GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a reservation.

DINING DEALS •

THE RITZ-CARLTON SHARQ VILLAGE, DOHA Parisa Restaurant Delight in decadent dining at Parisa with Persian signatures cooked to perfection. The offer runs from Monday to Thursday, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, and on Friday and Saturday, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, and is priced at QR285 per person inclusive of hot and cold starters, a main course, dessert and soft beverages.

GO: Call 4425 6666 or WhatsApp 5594 8326 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON SHARQ VILLAGE, DOHA Al Liwan Restaurant Enjoy a hearty Bazaar Brunch experience, an absolute feast for your eyes and stomach, with cuisines such as South-East Asian, Oriental, Indian, Pan-Latin, Persian and Western flavours on the menu. Groove to the music with live entertainment and savour a truly memorable afternoon. The offer runs every Friday from 1.30pm to 4pm and is priced at QR300 per person, inclusive of soft beverages.

GO: Call 4425 6666 or WhatsApp 5594 8326 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA The Italian Job Enjoy a duo of linguine and risotto with your choice of mocktail or malt. The offer runs daily except Mondays throughout July from 6pm to 11pm and is priced at QR139 per person, inclusive of a mocktail or malt.

GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a reservation.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA Ruby Wu’s Wok N’ Roll with Ruby Wu’s as you enjoy a three-course set menu with your choice of stir-fried beef, stir-fried chicken or Szechuan prawns. The offer runs daily except Tuesdays throughout July from 6pm to 11pm and is priced at QR150 per person, exclusive of beverages.

GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a reservation.

Sabai Thai Are you eager to try crafted Thai dishes prepared at the wok?

Then head on down to Sabai Thai. You can also pair your dish with two cocktails from a new menu. The offer runs every Tuesday and Wednesday from 6pm to 10.30pm and is priced at QR199 per person.

GO: Call 3359 8514 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Luxe Lounge & Waves Pool Cafe Transport yourself to gastronomical delights from the heart of the Middle East with a variety of authentic sharing-style dishes.

The offer runs every Friday and Saturday from 8am to 1pm and is priced at QR99 per person.

GO: Call 3359 8514 for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL Jamavar Jamavar is offering a Biryani Diary. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds with Chef Debdash as you venture on a culinary journey across the Indian subcontinent for a festival of mouthwatering flavours of biryani. The offer runs from July 20 to 30, 12.30pm to 12am and is priced at QR275 per person.

GO: Call 4485 3000, WhatsApp 5594 9701 or email F&Breservations.doha@sheratonhotels.com for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

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A DAY IN PARADISE As summer officially arrives, FACT’s Homara Choudhary spends an afternoon in the sun at Qatar’s first international hotel.

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• DAYCATION

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n al fresco lunch on the beach at Doha’s first five-star luxury hotel sounded like the idyllic way to end an extremely gruelling week. The magnificent Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel is nestled in the heart of the city and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Reportedly costing $100 million to build, it was designed by the famous American architect C.Y. Lee, of William L. Pereira Associates, and was built in 1982 under the orders of the then ruler, HH the Amir, Shaikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani. It hosted its first GCC summit the following year.

Constructed on 200,000sq/m, its unusual pyramid design made it the first iconic landmark of Doha. Built on the outskirts of the city, it is a testament to Qatar’s rapid expansion that it now lies in the centre of the metropolis.

As you enter this magnificent five-star masterpiece, you immediately relax as you’re greeted by the warm welcoming staff who are happy to walk you through the opulent maze which is regularly visited by world leaders, dignitaries and celebrities from around the globe.

Having a beach pass for the resort, I couldn’t wait to soak up the sun and sink my toes into the soft sand but first came lunch at the Pool Café. Situated beside the large outdoor pool area and within walking distance to the beach, the café is surrounded by a relaxed oasis of greenery and has both indoor and outdoor seating for guests.

Walking into the beautifully manicured gardens, I felt as if we had discovered a secret paradise. There was a shaded 68

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children’s pool and an infinity Jacuzzi overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Sun loungers were dotted along the golden beach. An array of fixed and movable cabanas overlooked the coast lining the lush verdant promontory, providing little oases of calm, guests quietly chatting, laughing and soaking up the gentle vibes. A giant Insta-worthy swing is at one end, waiting for pictures to be taken of both it and the picturesque view. A true Doha moment.

Quiet music played through hidden speakers. The treelined path narrows to a point where a secluded seating area is found at its very tip. Surrounded by the gentle waves this is a serene space that can be turned into a magical dining area upon request.

We were spoiled for choice with so many ‘escape pods’ to choose from. The organic and eclectic mix of furnishings provided a sea of calm. We opted to have our food in one of the many stylish cabanas by the beach.

The menu, like the scenery, was equally appetising and full of old family favourites – I could have eaten everything.

For the health conscious the menu helpfully has a calorie count next to each dish. There was something for everyone, including a grilled US Ribeye, Fish and Chips, a variety of pizzas and burgers but also plenty of healthy options, including four different types of salads, pan-seared salmon and Shish Taouk. There’s even an all-day breakfast menu if you’re not in the mood for a full-on lunch.

Nicolas Gomes has been Head Chef at the Sheraton for more than a decade and was kind enough to come over to talk

through the menu with us. He recommended the signature Seafood Paella cooked with soft traditional Spanish rice. It arrived on a cast iron hot plate. Infused with giant prawns, mussels and succulent calamari it was cooked to perfection with just enough seasoning to melt the taste buds.

Continuing the seafood theme, the salmon poke bowl was equally delicious. It was easy to see why it was a popular choice, it was grilled to perfection and arrived with soft white rice, avocados, cherry tomatoes and nori. It was filling and nutritious.

The standout dish for me was the Fish and Chips. Difficult to get right in the region, the batter was crispy and not too heavy, the delicate fish literally fell off my folk. The chips were chunky and delicious. The tartare sauce was beautifully balanced and complemented this classic UK dish perfectly.

The ‘Garden Fresh’ stone oven pizza arrived next. It was light and tasty with cherry tomatoes, rocca and a generous portion of parmesan shavings, also the ideal size for sharing.

Just when I thought I couldn’t squeeze anything more into my swimming costume, the Sheraton Grand Doha (SGD) Burrito Wrap arrived with fries. Hot and toasted it was packed with juicy chicken, mouth-watering avocado and cheddar with a little hint of aioli.

The menu was also bursting with a variety of refreshments, from milkshakes, to tantalising mocktails and some traditional cocktails too, including Long Island iced teas and the classic Italian orange spritz. A selection of teas, coffees and soft drinks was also available.

We decided to work off our delicious lunch with a swim in the clear blue sea. The water was cool and refreshing despite the afternoon heat. The soft golden sand is raked twice a day and glistened in the sun as children made sand castles.

The beach had something for everyone; sun loungers for those wanting to top up their tans as well as stylish cabanas for families wanting to spend an afternoon by the sea. There are also coffee tables and a relaxed seating area for those wanting to simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

The hotel's Executive Manager, Staris Latkas described how this iconic landmark is a: “home away from home for so many people, and has been home to many generations in Qatar, which is why they keep coming back.”

I’s easy to see why. With the pristine beach and the stunning gardens right beside it, it’s a unique and rewarding experience for both visitors and residents.

The holistic resort has had a recent revamp and Staris said they’re planning to host special DJ nights on the weekends for a chilled lounge experience.

A perfect getaway right in the heart of the city. ✤

GO: CALL 4485 3000 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. fact magazine

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• SPA & WELLNESS

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SCENTS OF REVIVAL Ailsa Whyatt visits M|Spa at Alwadi Doha - MGallery Hotel Collection, for a relaxation experience that has her floating out of the door when it’s time to leave.

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ased in Downtown Msheireb, Alwadi Hotel draws you into tranquillity from the moment you arrive; from water pipes lining the hotel entrance, creating a calming white noise to transport you away from the hubbub of the surrounding area, to the floral smells, high ceilings and golden touches of the interior, which make it feel like the hotel is gently gleaming, awakening your senses for the spa experience.

More sweet scents fill the air as I arrive at the reception desk. The décor is calming and radiates through golds, bronzes, creams and beiges. A selection of products is on display, some of which we will be using today, and I only just have time to take it all in before I am being welcomed by my lovely therapist Hanen.

The changing rooms are scented with cinnamon, and just a hint of orange – these scents are changed monthly, explains Spa Manager Ria, and refreshments follow a monthly colour theme also, to add variety for the many regular customers M|Spa attracts. Relaxing panpipes, piano music and nature’s sounds fill the entire spa, so there is no break between rooms and the effect is a continuous and peaceful environment.

Today I am having a glorious Soul Revival Massage (60 min), and an Express Facial (45 min) based on the renowned French bubbly beverage. But, I am getting ahead of myself…I start my spa experience in the serenity of the relaxation area, where Hanen washes my feet and lower legs in a large copper basin filled with warm water, orange bath salts and rose petals. Spa rooms are elegantly named rather than numbered, so we head

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into Yasmine room for the treatments.

We start with the Soul Revival, a full body massage using Balinese techniques, and a gorgeously scented Charme D’Orient Figs & Dates massage oil. Hanen’s fluidity of movement means that her hands work in harmony to relax aches and pains, with pressure point muscle releases down the length of the spine – something of which I am sorely in need.

I am face down, whilst Hanen works her way from feet to shoulders, and the combination of the flow of the massage, relaxing music and extremely comfortable massage bed has me untethering my mind, giving it over to full relaxation mode and, frankly, almost falling asleep. I peel myself off the bed to turn over onto my back and we recommence, after which Hanen washes her hands (there is nothing more annoying than post-massage oily hair) and gives me a wonderfully firm scalp massage, simultaneously waking up every follicle and brain cell so that I am back in the room for a luxurious facial. She then wraps a towel band round my head to protect my hair from products, and we start the facial…

I stay in position on the massage bed for the deep cleansing facial, with decadent foaming enzyme mask to exfoliate, cleanse the pores and brighten your skin. Hanen turns on the Blü Vapo Stream steaming machine, which is used to rapidly open pores during treatment, and it is immediately like being in a steam room concentrated on my face alone; wonderfully relaxing and warming.

The products we are using are iS Clinical Professional. Cleaning Complex (cleansing gel) is applied and duly washed away before the bubbles are brought out – the Foaming Enzyme Masque System. This effervescent mask contains papaya and pineapple enzymes and is left on to quietly fizz for a few minutes. Once this has been removed, I have a Clarifying Mud Masque, a peeling mask with a clay base, followed by a quick re-cleanse, before a Hydra Cool Serum and Copper Firming Mist are applied.

My eyes are given some C Eye Serum, followed by Youth Eye Complex, to ward off any signs of tiredness, and then we move on to the next mask. The Hydra Intensive Cooling Masque contains green tea, aloe vera and rosemary (amongst other things), and does exactly what it says on the tin (or should I say skin). As Hanen fans my face, the feeling is like ice, chilling me down to my very pores.

After removing my ice mask, we end with Reparative Moisture Emulsion, containing antioxidants, botanicals, and peptides (used by plants for growth and defence), and Extreme Protect SPF 20, to protect my face in its newly and beautifully cleansed form.

After my treatment has ended, Hanen takes me back to the relaxation room for tea, almonds and apricots, and I have the chance to commend her for the unhurried, calming and luxurious spa experience I have just enjoyed.

It is often said that smell is the most evocative of our senses, and M|Spa seeks to awaken your senses from the moment you walk through the doors. An oasis of calm where you can take a moment to feel rejuvenated was just the Wednesday morning I needed. ✤

GO: CALL 4009 9999 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. fact magazine

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BRING ON THE SUMMER VIBES

Featuring breathable fabrics in beachy hues, the Brunello Cucinelli High Summer Capsule Collection has a joyful, energetic allure.

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un’s out guns out! The weather is getting hotter and it’s time to pull out the summer staples. Check out the new capsule collection from Brunello Cucinelli which is created around the concepts of music, movement, sun and energy, and gives off major summer vibes. The campaign focuses on the famous and retro-inspired Venice Beach roller skate scene in California and features skaters Kelsey Griffen, Dee Upshaw and Keon Saghari.

The relaxed, energising and joyful allure of Venice Beach sets the mood of the collection with its typical Californian lifestyle and culture. The sunny and iconic location perfectly pairs with the contemporary, light and dynamic style of the capsule.

A delicate and versatile neutral colour palette enriches the carefree spirit of the ensembles, creating a soft backdrop for seasonal prints and floral-inspired patterns. Shades of blue and denim, and touches of orange, pink and red highlight the modern volumes of the silhouettes. In every outfit, the skillful craftsmanship that is deeply rooted in the Italian brand’s DNA stands out in the lightweight fabrics and the soft textures of knitwear, all rigorously made from precious blends of natural fibres.

The High Summer Capsule Collection is available in stores and online. ✤

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GO: VISIT WWW.BRUNELLOCUCINELLI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Stranger Things Need to Know:

Stranger Things is a supernatural thriller set in Indiana in the 1980s, following a vast cast of characters as they explore the paranormal activity happening in their small town. Season four has been divided into volumes one and two and has been recently released, making it one of the hottest shows of the moment.

Creators: Matt and Ross Duffer Cast: Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Sadie Sink, Joe Keery, Joseph Quinn

“

"The characters are well developed, and it's hard to keep yourself from getting attached to at least one of them.

Love Death + Robots Need to Know:

Love Death + Robots is a collection of short stories from various world-class animators and storytellers. It spans a variety of genres, including horror, fantasy, dark comedy and science fiction.

The series is adapted from the 1981 five-part animated series titled Heavy Metal. The recent release is volume three and it doesn't disappoint.

Creators: Tim Miller, David Fincher, Jennifer Miller, Josh Donen

Cast: Joe Manganiello, Rosario Dawson, Seth Green

Why Is It Worth Watching?

Stranger Things is a very popular show, and for good reason.

The way the Duffer brothers portray the characters, setting and plot are extremely striking. Season four has to be one of the best with lovable characters returning, such as Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), as well as new characters to adore, such as the metalhead leader of the Hellfire Club, Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn). The new season brings us more mystery as we’re introduced to a new villain who the gang must attempt to defeat. The season also focuses much more on Eleven's past in the Hawkins Lab, which clears up many quesions around her. The characters are well developed, and it's hard to keep yourself from getting attached to at least one of them. The visuals of the upside down are chilling and fascinating as always, and it's impossible not to love the '80s references. And, once again, season 4 delivers in the music department with another great soundtrack. Overall, this is most definitely a must-watch, both for being an incredible show as well as a pop culture icon

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Why Is It Worth Watching?

Everything about this series is absolutely captivating and it's definitely worth your time. With each episode being made by different animators, you're sure to be amazed by the distinct animation styles. From cartoony colourful designs such as in The Very Pulse of the Machine to the realistic and fluid movements of characters in The Vaulted Halls Entombed, there is something for everyone's taste.

Each episode is its own story and with the run time of each spanning anywhere from seven to 20 minutes, it's fascinating to see how well each narrative is developed and portrayed. Even though the viewer does not spend much time within each world, you'd be surprised how immersive and beautiful each episode is. The stories are all well crafted and fascinating, from thought-provoking, hilarious or just bizarre. Love Death + Robots is a fantastic and outstanding series that is unique and well made.

ENTERTAINMENT •

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

FICTION

To Paradise

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

This Is a Photograph

By Kevin Morby

Blue Skies

By Dehd

Memphis has been the musical muse to many a legend; Johnny Cash in the ‘50s, Isaac Hayes in the ‘60s, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King…the city’s air is heavy, sombre from pandemics, massacres and assassinations, untimely demises… drawing inspiration from this backdrop, singer-songwriter Kevin Morby has created this introspective album, his seventh studio record, “up in the Peabody”, Memphis’ historic hotel.

The LP starts off with the Intro; snatches of conversation between mother and child set against tape fuzz and bird song set the tone – that of nostalgia. The first line you hear is “This is a photograph, a window to the past”. Inspired by the artist’s experience of holding a photograph of his father as a young man in his childhood home of Kansas City, the title track picks up momentum gradually; A Random Act Of Kindness follows the same slow tempo build with a spectacular finish.

The LP features lyrics that are intense, visceral, inspired by themes such as life, love, death, memories, youth, dreams…

“There was a time when you were mine” on Bittersweet, TN, featuring Nashville indie folk singer-songwriter Erin Rae; “All of my life Just trying to be like my father” on Rock Bottom; “I was dreaming of the past Oh, just to make the bad times last” on Five Easy Pieces; “I miss the good times, Mama” on Goodbye to Good times… Each song is a snapshot, fully realised with strings, banjo, flute, piano, horns and Morby’s tightly-knit band.

Youthful, carefree and evoking a range of emotions; produced by the band’s singer and guitarist Jason Balla, mixed by Grammy-awardwinning engineer Craig Silvey, and mastered by Heba Kadry, Blue Skies retains the spirit of Dehd’s 2020 release, Flower of Devotion.

True to their sound, characterised by reverb-heavy guitar, blunt drumming and the use of idiosyncratic vocals, which include drawls, call-andresponse, yelping and frequent use of counter-melody, Dehd, the American three-piece indie rock band, offer an eclectic mix of song writing in this LP; slow and meditative cuts such as Control; toe-tapping tracks such as Bop; punchy numbers such as Clear… every song in this road-trip rock album has a hook. The lyrics are casual and work well with the light-hearted narrative of the album; the themes, however, address grown-up issues.

Likewise, the album’s cover art— perhaps, a take on a child’s butterfly sketch — seems to advertise that despite the songs’ occasional delving into very grown-up issues, this is play manifesting as music. All in all, short and catchy tunes will keep you entertained throughout. Bassist Emily Kempf, guitarist Jason Balla and drummer Eric McGrady all share singing duties – though Kempf remains their life force – and retain their carefree punk-meets-pop style, making Blues Skies the perfect summer anthem.

By Hanya Yanagihara A bold novel that explores themes of love, fear and the dream of utopia. Divided into three time periods and exploring the lives of three couples, the book starts in an imagined version of 1893 New York where an heir of a notable family drifts towards the beckoning melodies of a music teacher, despite an arranged union to a suitor.

Jumping to 1993 Manhattan, a young Hawaiian is troubled by a failed partnership with an older and richer man, unable to disclose their true feelings and past trauma. And lastly, in 2093, a time rocked by countless illnesses and totalitarian regimes, the granddaughter of a famous scientist attempts to manoeuvre through her life in his absence as well as solve the mystery behind her husband’s disappearances. Though the three tales differ, they are seamlessly entwined.

FICTION

Book Lovers

By Emily Henry Nora Stephens, a literary agent, breathes books. Uninterested in the archetypal vision of romance and far from a blushing damsel, careerdriven and hardworking Nora is dedicated to her clients, as well as her little sister Libby, who begs her to go with her to Sunshine Falls, to which she reluctantly agrees. Having gone through her fair share of breakups and being dumped by men, Nora is both desirous and afraid of love.

Far from having the small-town love connection she was hoping for, she keeps bumping into her nemesis Charlie Lastra, a hard-nosed editor from back in the city. The two are thrown together repeatedly and are surprised to find how much they have in common beyond books.

Before either knows what’s happening, they’ve fallen for each other. Funny, fresh, full of life, this novel is a must-read for any true romcom lover. fact magazine

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• FOR HER

NEW &

ARTÍS

Fini Brush This is the ultimate all-use make-up brush. Easy to hold and perfect for applying anything from foundation, contour or blush to highlights and setting powder, this is your go-to product. The brush provides a flawless finish to whichever product you choose. All you have to do is form circular movements as you glide it across your skin as you allow the proprietary fibres to deliver superior application. It securely holds a dense but gentle fibre bundle consisting of 200,000 engineered CosmeFibres to ensure the ultimate blending experience. With its minimalistic design and easy usability, it’s destined to be a universal favourite.

DANESSA MYRICKS Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder This amazing balmy powder is a one-size-fits-all product. While its main jobs are reducing texture, boosting coverage, skin blurring, oil balancing and maintaining hydration, the powder, powered by Swedish super-ingredient Upsalite, can be worn as a primer, foundation, bronzer or highlighter. Offering 10 different skin shades as well as one ‘universal’ shade, it gives you all the necessary tools to contour your face and it feels super smooth on the skin. Additionally, its cutting-edge technology balances sebum and reduces oil for a longlasting and sheen-free look. The Upsalite works to balance and absorb excess sebum while maintaining the skin’s hydration. The olive-derived squalane balances oil production while diminishing signs of aging. And hyaluronic acid also works to improve and promote the skin’s hydration to give a natural glow.

LUZERN LABS Serum Absolut Radiance This dual-action serum is set to hydrate, illuminate and radiate your skin. Made of a cocktail of plant-derived enzymes, vitamin C, alpha-arbutin and Bio-Suisse extracts, the serum is designed to promote a vibrant-looking luminous complexion, with fermented enzymes included to exfoliate dead skin cells, help revitalise your look and reveal a smoother and softer texture. The serum also works to diminish the appearance of age and sunspots, even the skin tone and discourage the onset of new pigmentation.

KOSAS Beach Clean Kosasport Chemistry Deodorant The new Beach Clean scent of Kosas’ Kosasport Chemistry Deodorant is simply a must-have. This stain-free serum deodorant has a unique blend of ingredients with an ultimate BO-fighting treatment, including shikimic acid, mandelic acid and lactic acid to exfoliate and moisturise the skin, as well as pure aloe vera juice to soothe. It soothes and brightens the skin and helps with ingrown hairs as well. The aluminium- and baking soda-free product has hints of jasmine, orange flower, vanilla and sandalwood to give your skin a comforting scent.

FENTY BEAUTY Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain Fenty Beauty’s new lip stain provides sheer to medium coverage and offers lightweight wear with a classic glossy finish. The product comes in four shades: berry, red, coral and pink, and is made with an oil-in-water technique to help moisturise and condition the lips. This is for anyone seeking that effortless and low-maintenance look and gives your lips juicy all-day hydration, leaving them feeling soft and smooth. It is also feather- and bleed-resistant.

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NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

THERABODY BAMFORD

TheraFace Pro This new therapy device simply beats all. Designed

Sage Hand and Body Wash

to reduce tension and relax muscles, the device

This gentle cleanser is blended with soothing aloe

brings together facial massage and treatments

vera to refresh the skin, as well as a revitalising

together. Offering eight therapies in one, from

blend of elemi for muscle pain and tiredness,

skin-toning microcurrent to rejuvenating light

grapefruit to uplift your energy, and clary sage

therapy, it can combine and customise more facial

to help you relax, soothe your skin and brighten

health treatments than any other device.

your mood. The 250ml bottle comes with 97% natural-origin ingredients and is COSMOS Natural certified. It is part of a new collection of sage and citrus scents for bath and body, with pure essential oils added to offer a gentle and smooth product.

GALLIVANT Gdańsk Eau de Parfum Gdańsk, the latest perfume from Gallivant, is an exploration of ambergris and amber, which, ironically, is often confused with ambergris. With

LA ROCHE-POSAY

a warm and spicy beginning, the scent opens with hints of plum, honey, cardamom, nutmeg and

Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Fluid Spf50+ Sun Cream 50ml

saffron. Then come the rich and woody scents

La Roche-Posay, the French pharmacy brand,

of cistus absolute, sandalwood oil from New

has introduced its newest product: the Anthelios

Caledonia, patchouli, incense resinoid and a light

BVLGARI

hint of rose. Last, but not least, come the earthy

Le Gemme Orom Eau de Parfum

Fragrance-free and offering ultra-protection against

and smoky scents of tobacco absolute, cypriol,

Bvlgari’s new Le Gemme series features the Orom

harmful rays, the formula includes Mexoryl 400 for

styrax, vanilla, musks and ambergris. For the

Eau de Parfum. The new fragrance, presented with

optimal performance. Stay safe without streaking

creation of this fragrance, the founder of Gallivant,

a labradorite gemstone on the lid, flaunts scents

thanks to the invisible nature of the product. The

Nick Steward, collaborated with Julia Rodríguez

of vanilla bourbon and oud assam, giving out an

non-greasy formula offers skin-friendly SPF for

Pastor, a professional perfumer in Barcelona.

intense and woody smell.

every season and is great for sensitive skin.

Uvmune

400

Invisible

Spf50+

Sun

Cream.

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Old Is Gold, Or Not

My Heart Will Go On…

Panty Politics

A TikTok video that has gone viral mentions ‘oldies’ and shortly after clarifies, “like those born in the late ‘90s”.

It has garnered a massive response mostly from millennials who have shared their reactions to the video – shock and, if we may, denial. For those who don’t know, millennials or Gen Y are those born between the early 80s and 90s. Most of them seem to be horrified by the opinion (or fact!) that “the late 90s” means “oldies”

Titanic, the movie, is set for a fresh theatrical release just in time for Valentine’s Day next year. A remastered version will be available in cinemas in 3D 4K HDR and high-frame rate (smoother visuals). It means, in addition to being in 3D, it will be in a sharper resolution (4K) and offer a better screen experience with more accurate colours (HDR – High Dynamic Range).

It’s a fitting tribute to this ‘90s romantic

At the heels of the hijab controversy in Karnataka, India comes the knicker row.

Protesting against historical information in school textbooks being tampered with, a students’ union burned chaddis, underpants in Hindi, outside a minister’s house. We’re told the union workers went from door to door, collecting briefs to burn (gross!). Soon after that, the opposition party launched a ‘burn the chaddi’ campaign, which seems to be a garbed (pun intended) attack on the rising

because then, what does it make them?

Ancient? The reaction is deeply rooted in how ageing is perceived these days.

The idea that it’s something to hide or be ashamed of. But growing older can also mean getting wiser, no? Calm down, Gen Y. Forty (or over 40) and fabulous isn’t such a bad thing!

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drama, which has had the hearts of millions ‘going on and on’ for all these years. Another thing that’s gone on for a while is the debate: whether Rose could have saved Jack by letting him onto the wooden plank or not. Sweet Jack, dying for love. Now, that seems to be in keeping with Valentine’s Day.

communal issues in the country. ‘Chaddi’ is also used to refer to shorts. In this case, khaki shorts – trademark, so to speak, of a party with a bit of a reputation for communal politics. Now, we’re not against using humour to make your point but there are subtler ways, no? How we miss the days of classy politics when parliamentary speeches were delivered using poetry!

These days, all we get is panty politics… sorry, we mean petty politics.

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