Cirque Du Soleil
Qatar! Eid In The City Our Top Six Eid Getaways The Comforting Power Of Classic Indian Dining Budapest’s Belle Époque Gem One Brand, Two Drops
Where Doha’s moments turn into lasting memories, and every milestone is met with heartfelt hospitality.
“It’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” - Abraham Lincoln “
Ican’t believe that we’re already halfway through Ramadan. It feels like we were only just welcoming the Holy Month, and now Eid is already on the horizon, along with a perfectly timed long weekend. This issue is all about helping you make the most of it: family days out, somewhere new for lunch, ways to keep the children entertained… Take your pick.
If an Eid escape is calling your name, our travel pages are brimming with inspiration. On a personal note, I truly can’t recommend Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som highly enough. Three days of actual rest, transformative treatments and blissful absence of chaos later, I left questioning every time I’ve claimed to ‘thrive’ on being busy. Clearly, I didn’t quite want the feeling to end, because I found myself booking in at the Pürovel Spa at Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha soon after. Consider it a continuation of my wellness era, and I’m not complaining.
On the food front, I finally made it to one of Doha’s most talked-about addresses: Harvest Coffee, recently ranked an impressive #44 in the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops. We do have a knack for spotting a good thing at fact. Meanwhile, the team has been out exploring, as ever. Think Chai Wu, one of Gewan Island's latest openings, plus a catch-up with the new Executive Chef at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas and Le Méridien City Center Doha’s recently appointed General Manager.
Much as I’d like it to be, life isn’t only about leisurely lunches and spa days. We’re also keeping you up to date with a few recent launches. Samsung has unveiled its new Galaxy S26 Series and, between the upgraded AI and enhanced Nightography, I’m beginning to suspect my current phone may be quietly judging me. In motoring, we take a closer look at the Jetour G700 Flagship. Six months in, I’m starting to admit that my ‘I can survive without a car’ phase may have been slightly delusional. With an Eid getaway in mind, having this much space, comfort and hybrid power on your side doesn’t sound like a bad idea.
However you celebrate, may it be full of people you love, places that inspire you and moments worth remembering. Eid Mubarak.
Sirine Boudjadi Editor
fact Qatar
editorial@fact-magazine.com
FACT Magazine
Qatar Edition
• MARCH 2026
VOLUME 12, ISSUE 08
PUBLISHER
RAMI KHALIL
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR
CHIRINE HALABI
GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
LIZ O’REILLY
DIGITAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
MAYA MAKKI
EDITOR
SIRINE BOUDJADI
DIGITAL TEAM
FAREEDA ABDULLA
ROHITH TR
SALES TEAM
ANUSH MKRTUMIAN
GENE SOLANZO
ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN
PHOTOGRAPHIC CONSULTANT
HADY SAMAHA
PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION
AJIT KUMAR
NEIL MAHMOOD
EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES
chirine@fact-magazine.com
CONTRIBUTORS AMS
APPLE SHARMA
GARETH WOODS
LAURA MORRIS SD
PRINTED BY QATAR NATIONAL PRINTING PRESS
DISTRIBUTION
DAR AL SHARQ
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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"They said that, of course, Budapest is
in fact almost ludicrously beautiful." — Anthony Bourdain
Corteo by Cirque du Soleil is set to make its debut in the capital in April, bringing acrobatic artistry, live music and theatrical spectacle to Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
The city is gearing up to welcome the internationally acclaimed production, bringing breathtaking acrobatics, striking visuals and powerful storytelling to audiences in Qatar for the first time.
Widely regarded as one of Cirque du Soleil’s most beloved productions, Corteo combines gravity-defying feats, evocative music and intricate set design in a theatrical experience celebrating imagination, wonder and the human spirit.
At the centre of Corteo is Mauro, a dreamer clown who imagines his own funeral taking place in a carnival atmosphere, attended by tender angels. As he reflects on his life, characters from his past appear in a joyful celebration. The production contrasts the grand with the intimate, the silly with the tragic and the beauty of perfection with the appeal of imperfection. The captivating live score, by turns lyrical
and playful, carries the story through a timeless celebration where illusion teases reality.
The production is being staged by Visit Qatar, in partnership with Ethara and SESLive!, from April 8 to 13, running across eight performances, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to experience one of Cirque du Soleil’s most acclaimed, familyfriendly shows in Doha.
Tickets start at QR175. ✤ GO: VISIT VISITQATAR.COM/INTL-EN/EVENTSCALENDAR/CIRQUE-DU-SOLEIL OR DOHA. PLATINUMLIST.NET FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS.
A chic and modern Lebanese bistro that reimagines the rich flavors of traditional cuisine with a contemporary twist. Open in the heart of The St. Regis Doha. Daily from 12 PM – 12 AM.
LUNCH FORMULA
Sunday to Thursday | 12 PM to 5 PM
QAR 150 PER 2 PERSONS
Choice of 1 Salad, 3 Mezza & 1 Main Course
MONDAY MEZZA NIGHT
Every Monday | 7 PM TO 12 AM
QAR 135 PER PERSON
Choice of 2 salads, 5 cold mezza, 5 hot mezza & 2 main courses.
SEAFOOD THURSDAY
Every Thursday | 7 PM TO 12 AM
QAR 135 PER PERSON
A selection of cold and hot mezza, and a variety of fish choices.
FRIDAY BRUNCH
Every Friday | 12 PM – 5 PM
Starting QAR 160 per person with soft beverage package
Live DJ Available
If you’re a fan of fancy footwear – limited-edition trainers and sneakers with style – this one’s for you.
Sneaker Con Doha takes place at Doha Exhibition & Convention Center from March 21 to 23, promising thousands of pairs of trainers on display over three days and an opportunity for enthusiasts to swap stories (and shoes), discover rare finds and experience the global ‘sneaker culture’.
Collectors, enthusiasts, brands and influencers will come together for a three-day celebration of streetwear, exclusive drops and urban lifestyle. Go for the rare finds. Stay for the music, the meetups and the moments you’ll talk about long after.
Expect customisation and authentication experiences, sneakerinspired sports activations (basketball and skateboarding), and panel talks with collectors and footwear fashion icons. ✤
GO: VISIT SNEAKERCON.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Get ready to race as Hot Wheels Speed City lands in Doha this month.
Taking place in Katara’s South parking area, the month-long event runs from March 25 to April 30 and promises ‘legendary shows, races and experiences’ with immersive activities, interactive zones and plenty of great photo opportunities.
Look out for the iconic orange tracks and expect fullscale immersive city setups. There’s also likely to be a range of live entertainment and great food options. A great day out for adults and kids alike. Tickets are expected to go on sale soon. ✤
GO: VISIT VISITQATAR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
If you haven’t yet experienced the Ramadan Cannons, you really should try to get to this iconic event before the end of the Holy Month.
Each day at sunset, cannons sound at locations across the city to mark the end of the daily fast. It’s a timeless tradition that brings communities together harking back to Qatar’s heritage.
Witness the spectacle at Old Doha Port, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif, Aspire Park, Lusail Boulevard and various other locations around the city. It’s free to attend but does tend to get busy, so arrive early to grab your spot. ✤
We’re in for an extraordinary experience this month, as the capital plays host to one of the region’s most distinctive live shows.
Cirque du Liban’s acclaimed Fontana Show comes to Doha this spring for a series of performances at Hyatt Plaza from March 20 to April 18.
Presented in a purpose-built circus tent, the production promises a large-scale aquatic performance that blends circus artistry with advanced water, light and sound elements. Bringing together an international cast of acclaimed artists in one of the region’s most ambitious travelling aquatic shows, the extravaganza features a choreographed, dancing musical fountain at its core, complemented by thrilling aerial performances, awe-inspiring acrobatics and visual effects, delivering a programme designed to appeal to families and live entertainment enthusiasts alike.
Performances run both days and evenings and tickets start at QR95. ✤
Global Latin superstar Shakira is coming to town, bringing her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour to 974 Stadium on April 1.
The concert promises a hip-shaking performance of the charttopper’s greatest hits as well as plenty of new music from the latest album.
Shakira, AKA Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, has been entertaining us since the age of 14 and, over her long career, has amassed numerous accolades including four Grammies and 15 Latin Grammy Awards.
One of her best-known hits, Hips Don’t Lie with Wyclef Jean, amazed many by turning 20 last year, with a showstopping performance reuniting the two on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon . The original song reached number one in more than 55 countries and, in 2022, hit an incredible 1 billion streams on Spotify.
Whenever, Wherever , the track that solidified her international crossover status, was released in 2001 and still fills dance floors today.
And, who can forget Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), the official 2010 FIFA World Cup song?
With such an outstanding pedigree, it’s safe to say we can expect a thrilling evening of music, delivered with the singer’s signature high energy. A first for Qatar and a great opportunity to experience some fantastic live music.
Doors open at 5pm and tickets are priced from QR95. ✤
GO: VISIT DOHA.PLATINUMLIST.NET FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS.
GO: VISIT DOHA.PLATINUMLIST.NET FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS.
Qumra 2026, Doha Film Institute’s unique initiative bringing together film-makers and industry insiders, is back this month.
Running from March 27 to April 1 at the Museum of Islamic Art, participants can look forward to a thought-provoking and inspiring series of Qumra Master Classes featuring internationally celebrated film-makers, as well as screenings of compelling feature films from the region and beyond.
Aimed at first- and second-time film-makers from Qatar and the wider region, Qumra offers the opportunity to learn directly from some of the world’s most renowned creative visionaries and experience original storytelling from voices shaping the future of cinema. Activities include industry sessions, development labs and mentorship opportunities.
This year’s Qumra Masters are: Mexican actor, director and producer Gael García Bernal; Golden Globe-nominated actor, director and producer Diego Luna; French film-maker Alice Diop; multi-award-winning Argentine composer, producer and musician Gustavo Santaolalla; and Moroccan director and actor Faouzi Bensaïdi.
Together and individually, they will conduct a series of master classes, each offering audiences an intimate look into the creative journey, how ideas are shaped, stories are built and choices are made behind the camera. More details of the programme and film screenings are still to be confirmed. ✤
The world-famous composer, who counts both Academy and Grammy Awards among his accolades, will take the audience to the next level with a one-night-only show at the Stadium 974 Precinct on April 10.
The concert, part of his The Next Level tour, will offer a rare opportunity to experience Hans Zimmer’s timeless musical works first-hand in a breathtaking new live show together with his 19-piece band.
The composer, who is known for his work on some of cinema’s most iconic productions, such as The Lion King, Gladiator, The Dark Knight Trilogy and more, is setting new standards with electronic sound elements, an impressive lighting design and a unique new stage.
Over the years the musician has scored more than 500 projects across all mediums, grossing well over USD28 billion at the worldwide box office. His groundbreaking approach to film composition has reshaped modern cinematic sound, blending orchestral depth with contemporary production techniques. And his live shows promise a treat for both film and music fans.
Doors open at 6.30pm and ticket prices start at QR125. ✤
In a treat for dance fans, the ‘most splendid ballet of all time’ comes to the city on April 3.
Swan Lake, the spectacular masterpiece from Petipa and Tchaikovsky, is brought to life by Moscow Ballet “La Classique” under the directorship of founder Elik Melikov.
With lavish costumes, magnificent stage sets and a troupe of talented dancers, the performance will tell the tragic love story of Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette – who’s been cursed by an evil sorcerer to live as a swan during daylight.
Only true love can break the spell, but the sorcerer’s daughter, Odile, in a cloud of black tulle, has other ideas.
From the moon-lit lake where elegant swans silently glide, to the magnificent opulence of the palace ballroom, the ballet promises a tale of drama and tragic romance, as old as time.
There are two performances, afternoon and evening, at Al Mayassa Theatre, Qatar National Convention Centre and tickets start at QR225. ✤
The Throwback Food Festival at Old Doha Port promises a taste of the past.
Inspired by the traditional cafés and restaurants that made up Qatar’s dining scene from the 1970s to the 1990s, the festival promises what will be a taste of childhood for many locals and expats who grew up here.
Staged in the picturesque surroundings of Old Doha Port, the event runs until March 19, bringing together around 30 vendors from across the region. Menus are inspired by culinary and cultural traditions and there are live cooking stations with local chefs showcasing classic recipes and how to prepare them. There are also traditional games and interactive entertainment – all inspired by past decades, helping to preserve a sense of heritage and community. Look out for the recreation of the traditional neighbourhood shop, it will bring back memories. The evening usually concludes with a drone show over the water, making for a spectacular finale to your visit. ✤
GO: VISIT DOHA.PLATINUMLIST.NET FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS.
GO: VISIT ODP.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
As the mid-point of the Holy Month approaches, little ones across the city have the chance to join in the celebrations, dressing up in traditional clothes, singing festive songs and collecting gifts of sweets and nuts. Various venues across Doha are staging events especially for them.
AL RAZJI RAMADAN 2026
A refreshed event for this year at Darb Al Saai in Umm Salal, Al Razji Ramadan runs until March 3 and features a whole range of heritage-inspired spaces as well as live performances and cultural displays highlighting traditional Qatari life. There’s a dedicated interactive area for children aged five to 13 and there’ll be a special Garangoa celebration to mark the middle of the Holy Month. GO: Visit @moc_qa for more information.
SOUQ WAQIF
The heart of Doha will come alive with Garangao vibes as youngsters join in the traditional children’s Ramadan celebration with a range of music and fun, family-friendly activities. Look out for the fabulous traditional decorations and lively cultural performances, giving kids a chance to learn about their heritage. Takes place on March 3. GO: Visit @souqwaqif_qa for more information.
Music and dancing with live entertainment and traditional activities will be on the menu to mark Gerangao at these
waterside venues on March 3. Tradition and joy take centre stage for children in traditional dress as they join in one of the season’s most fun customs with live entertainment to bring the spirit of the season to life.
GO: Visit @thepearlqatar for more information.
Visitors can expect kids’ entertainment, festive goodie bags and an all-round fun family experience over Garangao at Msheireb Downtown. Make the most of the traditional Ramadan atmosphere as the little ones celebrate this special time of year on March 4.
GO: Visit @msheirebproperties for more information.
Old Doha Port’s Mina Parks area is all ready for Garangao, one of the most cherished family traditions of the Holy Month. Children, dressed in bright traditional clothing, will take part in the beloved custom of collecting sweets, while visitors enjoy live performances and festive activities along the waterfront. Runs on March 4, from 6pm to 11pm.
GO: Visit odp.qa for more information. ✤
As the Holy Month draws to a close, our thoughts turn to the Eid break. If you’re staying in the city, it’s the ideal time to extend the spirit of togetherness and look for family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. Read on for some of our favourites.
Qatar might be a desert nation but, just outside the urban sprawl lies a wonderland of mangrove forests and what better way to explore this intriguing ecosystem than by kayak?
Ideal for families with older kids, it’s a great opportunity for some parent-child bonding as you adventure together into the wilds of Al Thakira, propelling yourselves along on your own watercraft and a great escape from the city over the Eid break.
Al Thakira Mangrove Forest is among Qatar’s oldest and largest forests and a real surprise with the protected ecosystem attracting migratory birds such as herons and flamingos in season, while numerous types of fish and crustaceans can be spotted all year round.
Book a tour and you’ll receive a safety briefing, an introduction to the mangroves ecosystem, a guided walking tour in mangroves along the beach and a Bedouin camp with Arabian tent experience.
Kayaking equipment and life jacket are provided. Tours cost from QR240 per adult, kids aged two to 11 pay QR120.
GO: Visit discoverqatar.qa for more information.
Always a central hub during national celebrations, Aspire Zone typically hosts a festive calendar with the park remaining open 24 hours.
Paddle boating and kayaking are available on Qatar’s only artificial lake and there are kids’ playgrounds and bike rental. With wide green open spaces, this is a great place to gather with family and friends for a picnic and park games and if the youngsters get bored, you can always head to KidZania for some educational fun or the neighbouring Villaggio Mall for a gondola ride.
The park does get busy during the evenings, especially during holidays, so this might not be the most peaceful option, but it’s certainly a lot of fun.
Festive activities over Eid Al-Fitr are still to be announced.
GO: Visit @aspirezone for more information.
Head to one of the biggest theme parks in the Middle East, featuring 19 attractions and 30 thrilling rides and slides. From tubes to mat races, a kids’ pool for the little ones, dune surfing and the high-adrenaline King Cobra, there’s something for the whole family. The seriously adventurous can try canyoning at the region’s first man-made canyoning facility, which includes pools, slides and 26 cliff jumps – the highest is 7.5 metres! And you can also swim in artificial caves that feel like the real thing. You’ll find adventures around every corner with go-karting, laser tag and more and there are dining spots serving burgers and Arabic options as well as a snack kiosk, so nobody will go hungry. Advance booking is required and tickets start from QR150 for the water park with separate fees for additional activities. GO: Visit salwabeachresort.qa for more information.
The 7km-long Corniche is very much at the heart of Qatar’s Eid celebrations and it’s also the place to go if you’re on a budget. During the day, pack up the family, grab a blanket and take a picnic to enjoy the abundant green spaces, such as Al Dafna Park, and sea views or visit one of the many food trucks offering all kinds of fare at reasonable prices. In the evening, enjoy a balmy stroll with sea breezes and great light displays – and all for free. If you want to keep up your fitness routine during the holiday, the Corniche is also the ideal spot to give your running shoes an outing, and you’ll often find group exercises on the go, or dig out your roller skates or bike for an extra workout on one of the cycle paths. You can also take a dhow or boat ride from here to experience the city from the water.
GO: Visit visitqatar.com for more information.
For something completely different head to this countryside spot for family fun, workshops, traditional crafts, live music and more. Heenat Salma is an eco-farm and camp in Shahaniya. A project from the Caravane Earth Foundation, it’s pioneering ecohospitality in the country offering wellness activities, vocational and educational training, classes with master craftspeople and cultural and community-building events. Visitors can go for the day or stay on site, in one of the seriously funky lodges. In a world where consumerism can seem like a worthy goal, this place offers a chance to show your kids the other side of the coin and have a great time doing it.
GO: Visit heenatsalma.earth for more information.
Eid at Katara is quite an event with all sorts of family-friendly activities going on. Expect great festive decorations, live street art displays and traditional food stalls. One of the highlights is the Qatari Ardha sword dance alongside folklore performances and special shows at Al Thuraya Planetarium. There are gifts for the kids and, for the first three days of Eid, there are usually magnificent fireworks displays each evening. Make a day of it and take the family to explore the Greek-style amphitheatre, the Golden Masjid and the famed Pigeon Towers. And make sure to bring your bathers to make the most of the beach. Details and timings for Eid events still to be confirmed. Entry to Katara Cultural Village is free but there may be a fee for activities. GO: Visit home.katara.net for more information.
Sometimes overlooked in favour of the capital’s more well-known institutions, the Eid break is the ideal time to grab the gang and take a trip into Qatar’s past with a tour of these four remarkable restored houses in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha. Radwani House is a restored Qatari family house that represents traditional Qatari family life and gathers, preserves and shares memories offering an insight into how family life evolved in Qatar over the years.
The Company House was home to Qatar’s first oil company. It tells us the story of the Qatari pioneers who worked relentlessly in this field to transform Qatar into a modern society.
Mohammed Bin Jassim House was owned by the son of the founder of Modern Qatar. The house tells us stories from Qatar’s past as legacy, as well as its present development and its sustainable future.
And, most thought-provoking, Bin Jelmood House deals sensitively with the issue of slavery in the Arab and surrounding world. Visitors can travel back in time to learn how enslavement spread and the display pays tribute to the cumulative social, cultural and economic contribution of formerly enslaved people to the development of human civilisations
GO: Visit msheirebmuseums.com for more information.
This picturesque area resembles a Mediterranean village and, with its colourful buildings, striking murals and bijou shops, it’s a great place to wander at any time of year. But extended Eid activations mean a visit during the break will be extra special.
Details have still to be announced but previous years have included roaming entertainers, bubble and ice cream shows and oversized inflatable games. You can also expect traditional and modern musical performances – just perfect for a family day out. Activities are centred around Mina District and Mina Park but make sure you take a trip across to Hamad Port Visitors Centre & Aquarium where you’ll find the Maritime Museum, including a kids’ play area with swings, slides and walking tracks and the fabulous aquarium that features 17 basins of varying sizes housing 3,000 sea creatures, including 80 different species of fish. GO: Visit opd.qa for more information.
From our renowned entrecôte steak to a curated selection of dishes including chicken, seabass, and smash burger, experience the signature creations of La Maison de l’Entrecôte.
OPEN DAILY 12 PM TO 12 AM
The Children’s Museum is the perfect place for a family-friendly day out where youngsters can let their imaginations run wild. Specifically designed to let families of all ages come together, bond and have fun.
Made with love and inspired by parents, there’s a water gallery, where it’s all about splashing around and learning how water behaves; the TeamLab Future Park, where kids’ art comes to life through future technology; the Fitness Gallery where families can learn about the importance of healthy living with interactive activities where youngsters can race against their favourite animal or skip a digital rope; and the Kinetic Gallery, which looks at the principles of physics allowing kids to launch a rocket or build a race car.
There’s also the WonderSphere, a one-of-a-kind rope-net playground where kids can wobble around and have great fun. You’ll need socks for the socks-only zones and a change of clothes for the Water Gallery and tickets for youngsters aged two to 16 cost QR135, with one adult going free per child.
GO: Visit olioli.qa for more information.
It would be easy to spend a whole day at Souq Waqif, there’s so much to see and do. Check out traditional games at Al Dama Majlis, visit Souq Waqif Art Centre where you’ll find the work of visiting artists on display or head to the Emiri Stables to spot the stunning Arabian horses who carry the Heritage Police on their daily rounds of the souq.
The ladies can get fresh henna tattoos to mark the occasion or indulge in a spot of retail therapy to head home with traditional oil fragrances.
Check out the central courtyard where you’ll find local women selling traditional foods, from stuffed vine leaves to dumplings, or visit one of the traditional restaurants where you can eat an excellent, slow-cooked meat stew while seated on the floor.
Souq Waqif really comes into its own on occasions such as Eid with street performances and costume parades, cementing its place as the traditional heart of Doha.
GO: Visit souqwaqif.qa for more information.
As always, the hospitality sector will be putting on a show over Eid Al-Fitr with brunches, cakes, special stay deals and more. Many properties have yet to finalise their offers but here’s what we know so far.
La Gourmandise
Celebrate the joy of Eid with friends and family over a vibrant brunch featuring a generous buffet with traditional favourites, international dishes and live stations, all finished off with a range of indulgent desserts. Runs on the second day of Eid Al Fitr from 1pm to 4pm, priced QR199 for the Soft Package with an Enhanced Beverages Package for an extra QR120 per person. Children aged six to 12 get 50% off and those under six dine for free.
GO: Call 4041 3333 or WhatsApp 5077 6821 for more information or to make a booking.
Liang
After a month of traditional Arabic dining, Liang offers an alternative as you welcome Eid. Indulge in a refined Dim Sum
Brunch, showcasing the rich flavours of traditional Chinese cuisine. Enjoy a curated selection of classic dim sum and signature dishes in a vibrant setting. This experience is also available as a gift for your loved ones. Available from March 20, Friday and Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR290 per person with Chinese tea, QR480 with enhanced beverages and tea.
Refine your celebrations with The Heritage Collection Eid Cake, featuring delicate layers of chocolate siphon cake, tahina crémeux, Madagascar vanilla mousse, caramelised macadamia and orange confit. Crafted with precision and passion, this exquisite dessert is complemented by a selection of pastries and breads, including the Le Nœud Feuilletée au Caramel Salé. Available from March 17 to 24, priced QR350.
GO: Call 4008 8888 for more information or to make a booking or place a cake order.
Celebrate Eid with the vibrant spirit of Rio at the Rio Carnival Eid Edition at Ipanema! Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere while indulging in the rich, authentic flavours of Brazilian cuisine. Indulge in an unlimited feast of 12 expertly grilled churrascaria meat cuts carved tableside, live food stations serving freshly prepared specialities, sip on expertly crafted South Americaninspired drinks, and enjoy a variety of delightful surprises throughout the celebration. Runs on the first, second and third days of Eid Al Fitr, from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR299 with soft drinks, QR399 with selected beverages and QR138 for kids aged six to 12 years.
GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 3341 4691 for more information or to make a booking.
As well as various deals across the property, the Radisson has a special Eid Lunch Buffet at Hyde Park promising a wide selection
of international dishes with great food, good company and even better memories. Available on the second day of Eid Al Fitr from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, priced QR200 per person.
GO: Call 4428 1555 or 5200 2177 for more information or to make a booking.
Celebrate Eid with a thoughtfully curated wellness brunch where Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine TAIM-inspired cuisine restores balance, supports vitality and invites a moment of mindful togetherness in a serene coastal sanctuary. Designed to nourish holistically, the menu presents a harmonious selection of dishes created for sharing with family and loved ones, complemented by the soothing sounds of a live Arabic oud performance. Available on the first day of Eid Al Fitr from 12pm to 3pm, priced QR350 per person, QR175 for kids aged six to 12 and under sixes go free. The resort also has special offers on retreats over the holiday period and beyond.
GO: Call or WhatsApp 4477 6555 for more information or to make a booking.
With Eid Al Fitr holidays just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags and take a short trip away to reboot after Ramadan. Here are our top six Eid escapes to inspire your wanderlust. And the best part – they’re all a hop, skip and a jump from Qatar.
Framed by the Taurus Mountains and the bright blue Mediterranean, Antalya is known as the crown jewel of the Turkish Riviera and a favourite for a relaxed coastal break.
Kaleiçi, the old town, gives the city oodles of character with its maze of cobbled streets, Ottoman-era houses, boutique hotels and jasmine-scented courtyards.
Mornings here start slowly, with small cafés offering Turkish coffee and pastries to ease you into the day. There’s no real need for a schedule. Enter through the 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Gate and let yourself wander. Stop at Kesik Minare (the Broken Minaret) for a glimpse into Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. Browse small artisan shops selling ceramics, textiles and leather goods, or take a leisurely stroll down the colourful and cheerful Umbrella Street.
Follow the slope downhill towards Kaleiçi Marina, an old Roman harbour, where fishing vessels and wooden gulets bob along the water’s edge. You’ll also find boats for coastal tours, including trips to the Lower Düden Waterfall, which crashes straight into the sea, surprisingly close to the city centre. The area is lively day and night, with plenty of restaurants nearby serving grilled fish and mezze.
Of course, a trip to the beach is practically mandatory. Konyaaltı Beach is popular with its magnificent mountain backdrop, while Lara Beach is lined with resorts. If you’re up for a short drive, the ancient theatre of Aspendos still hosts performances, and families often make a day of The Land of Legends theme park.
Qatar Airways: Multiple one-stop flights throughout the week.
Barely needing an introduction, Beirut is a familiar escape with an infectious energy, many considering it the 'Paris of the Middle East'.
The Corniche remains the city’s steady heartbeat. The almost ritualistic early evening walk, with the iconic Pigeon Rocks (Raouché Rocks) rising from the sea, is a must. It’s one of the best spots for people-watching, as families gather, runners go by and fishermen cast their lines.
Hamra Street is one of Beirut’s busiest stretches, lined with cafés, bookstores, fashion boutiques and late-night spots that stay bustling well after dark. Nearby, Mar Mikhaël and Gemmayzeh – two of the coolest neighbourhoods – offer a vibrant, arty feel, where restored heritage buildings house some of the city’s most creative restaurants, galleries and bars.
Beirut Souks provides a stylish shopping spot with a touch of traditional architecture, while Zaitunay Bay is popular for scenic marina-side dinners.
Unsurprisingly, Beirut’s culinary reputation is very much well earnt. Generous mezze of olives, grilled meats, fresh herbs and creamy labneh are best enjoyed shared, with rooftop terraces and waterfront restaurants filling quickly at sunset.
For a change of pace, take a short drive to Jounieh and ride the gondola cable car to the Our Lady of Lebanon shrine, or continue north to Byblos for ancient ruins and a charming harbour.
Qatar Airways: 3hr 10m to Beirut, multiple non-stop flights throughout the week.
Babel invites you on an exquisite culinary journey, a luxury Lebanese destination where each dish is a celebration of mature flavors, sophisticated techniques, and inherited ingredients that reflect the very best of Lebanon’s culinary heritage.
At Babel, food is a shared language, bringing together time-honored mezze, comforting classics, and progressive reinterpretations in an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality in the heart of The Pearl, Qatar.
Diriyah offers a perfect short escape that feels close to home but unlike anything you left behind. Located on the outskirts of Riyadh, it's known as the City of Earth and the birthplace of the first Saudi state – instantly recognisable for its traditional mudbrick architecture.
The historic UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district is the centrepiece. Meticulously restored to showcase the Najdi structures that served as the original home of the Al Saud Royal Family, its narrow winding lanes and courtyard houses glow beautifully at sunset. Small museums along the route tell the story of Saudi history, while guided tours are available for more insight.
Nearby, Bujairi Terrace overlooks Wadi Hanifah (once a historic waterway and now one of the largest national parks in the Kingdom) and has become one of Riyadh’s premier dining destinations, featuring refined regional and international cuisine, alongside charming retail shops in an elegant, pedestrianfriendly setting.
Diriyah feels particularly alive this time of year thanks to the ongoing Layali Al-Diriyah, part of the popular Diriyah Season held through winter into early spring. This open-air festival in Al-Murayih runs until March 23, offering gourmet pop-up restaurants, boutique stalls, live performances and art and light installations.
Qatar Airways, Saudia: 1h 35, direct flights throughout the week to Riyadh, then a 20-minute drive to Diriyah.
A historic port city on India’s southwest coast, Kochi is known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, offering a tropical retreat with centuries of maritime trade history, evident in its colonial architecture, old spice warehouses and waterfront promenades. Begin exploring at the charming seaside town of Fort Kochi, which showcases a fascinating blend of Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, and wander its narrow streets lined with restored homes, art cafés, old churches and wooden shutters. Don’t miss the iconic Chinese fishing nets – watching them dip into the harbour at sunset under swaying coconut palms is the quintessential Kochi moment!
Take a tuk-tuk to Mattancherry to browse its antique shops and spice markets before visiting Paradesi Synagogue, known for its Belgian chandeliers and hand-painted tiles. For a touch of history, visit the neighbouring Mattancherry Palace, home to Ramayana murals and royal artefacts within its Kerala-style interiors. A short walk away is St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church, and the more gothic Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, known for its painted ceilings and stained glass. For a change of scene, take a slow boat ride through the tranquil backwaters of nearby Alleppey to experience traditional village life and lush greenery, or ride a ferry from Fort Kochi jetty to Vypin or Ernakulam for scenic coastal views. In the evenings, catch a Kathakali performance, a 17th-century classical dancedrama with vibrant costumes and elaborate makeup.
Indigo: 3hr 15m, daily non-stop flights.
Described as Die Weltstadt mit Herz (The World City with a Heart), Munich immediately puts you at ease. Lacking the frantic pace of Berlin, it offers a leisurely, high-end charm, and its efficient transport, compact centre and reassuring sense of order mean you can maximise your time from the moment you arrive. Begin in Marienplatz, the heart of the city, where the historic Glockenspiel still marks the hour above the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall. Viktualienmarkt market provides a lively introduction to Bavarian flavours, from artisanal cheeses and sausages to seasonal fruit. From there, you can stroll through the old town’s arcades and bakeries, where a soft pretzel and coffee can easily stretch into an hour of people-watching. Then explore the luxury boutiques on Maximilianstraße – window-shopping at its finest.
The Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks in the centre of the city, offers cycling and jogging trails along shaded paths. Join the locals in a hops garden under chestnut trees or watch surfers riding the Eisbach river wave. If you prefer palaces to parks, the Residenz München is the largest city palace in Germany, while the Baroque Nymphenburg’s long canals and manicured gardens make for a lovely afternoon stroll. Art lovers can explore the galleries of Kunstareal’s museum quarter, including the centuries-old Alte Pinakothek, while culture enthusiasts can visit the modern BMW Welt or browse the independent boutiques and trendy bars of the Glockenbachviertel district. And a day trip to the Bavarian Alps and Neuschwanstein Castle is definitely worth it if you have time. Qatar Airways: 6hr 10m | Multiple direct flights throughout the week.
Often called the Pink City due to its rose-coloured volcanic tuff (rock), Yerevan is a destination where Soviet-era grandeur meets ancient Armenian heritage. With a compact centre, it's quick and easy to explore this capital city on foot – ideal for a short but rewarding escape.
Republic Square is a lively gathering place, especially at night when its dancing fountains light up to synchronised music. Yerevan’s most recognisable landmark is the Cascade Complex, a vast limestone stairway that rises above the city and features sculpture gardens and contemporary art spaces, including the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. Climb slowly and enjoy the gorgeous views of the snow-capped Mount Ararat on the horizon.
Yerevan’s café culture is among the most sophisticated in the region; it's easy to lose track of time on the pedestrianised Northern Avenue, watching the fashionable locals go by, while enjoying Armenian coffee and pastries. Indulge in a spot of shopping at Vernissage open-air market, with stalls displaying intricate jewellery, carpets and handmade crafts, and try local food at nearby hidden basement tavernas serving dishes like Khorovats (Armenian barbecue), Lavash (traditional bread) and Tolma (stuffed leaves).
If you fancy a quick day trip, take a drive to the cliff-carved mediaeval Geghard Monastery or the classical columns of the Greco-Roman Garni Temple. Lake Sevan, meanwhile, offers fresh mountain air and fabulous views.
Qatar Airways: 3hr 10m | Daily non-stop flights.
Ahwet Zeitouna embodies the spirit of the classic Lebanese café, a welcoming neighborhood gathering place by the shores of Marsa Arabia where vibrant flavors and timeless traditions are shared.
From freshly baked Sajj and signature mezze to comforting main dishes, aromatic coffee, refreshing beverages, and outdoor shisha, every offering reflects the convivial heart of Lebanese café culture.
Fact spent time with Jetour’s G700 Flagship – the new luxury SUV making waves in the region –to discover how hybrid power and off-road ambition reshaped the modern premium 4×4.
Few recent SUV arrivals in the region have attracted as much attention as the Jetour G700 Flagship. Positioned as the brand’s most advanced model, it had already generated conversation across the Gulf before we experienced it firsthand. When it joined our test schedule, its presence was unmistakable.
Walking around the G700 Flagship, we were struck by the confidence of its design: upright, squared and undeniably substantial. The broad stance, generous ride height and pronounced arches gave it the authority of a true luxury 4x4, while crisp surfacing added modern definition.
A bold vertical grille, sculpted bonnet and distinctive lighting signatures reinforced its premium character, while large alloy wheels and strong shoulder lines added visual strength – proportions that tend to make neighbouring vehicles look slightly more modest by comparison. We also noted the flush detailing and tight panel integration, giving the exterior a refined, contemporary finish. At just over five metres long with 230mm of clearance, its proportions conveyed the visual authority expected of a full-size, luxury off-roader.
Climbing inside, the G700 pivoted from rugged exterior to a refined, hospitality-inspired cabin. The interior emphasised space and theatre, with layered forms and expansive surfaces creating a sense of openness and comfort.
Flagship seating – including massage functions, leg rests and deep-reclining second-row captain’s chairs – created an environment closer to a contemporary lounge than a utilitarian 4x4. The six-seat layout, integrated table functions and wide centre access reinforced its touring focus, offering generous room across all rows.
Fold-flat rear flexibility, abundant cabin storage and extensive soft-touch materials elevated the sense of everyday and longdistance comfort expected of a luxury SUV in this class.
Digital innovation formed a central part of the G700 Flagship’s appeal during our drive. The sweeping 35.4-inch skyline display and multi-screen interface created a highly immersive control environment, presenting vehicle information and functions clearly and intuitively – without requiring the sort of learning curve that often accompanies screen-heavy cabins. The intelligent vehicle interface supported multi-screen interaction and voice control, allowing key functions to be accessed naturally while on the move. Connectivity and OTA (over-the-air) capability reinforced the system’s integrated feel during our drive.
The Lexicon 18-speaker audio system delivered rich, balanced sound throughout the cabin, while advanced multi-zone climate management maintained consistent comfort across all three rows. The overall technology suite felt intuitive and easy to live with – the kind that makes sense before you even consider looking for a manual.
From the moment we pulled away, the G700 Flagship’s hybrid powertrain revealed its powerful character. The combination of a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and dual electric motors delivered strong, immediate response, propelling the SUV forward with ease.
A firm press of the accelerator translated into seamless thrust, with 0-100km/h dispatched in a mere 4.6 seconds – entirely believable from behind the wheel. At times, it seemed less like a large SUV building pace and more like one simply settling into whatever speed we requested.
Beyond straight-line performance, the G700 remained composed on the road. Over uneven surfaces, the suspension absorbed impacts with controlled compliance, maintaining cabin calm, while through faster bends body movement stayed well managed and stable – the sort that leaves potholes feeling slightly outmatched.
Across our drive, the overall impression was one of relaxed authority – performance delivered with confidence and composure.
The G700’s stability and assistance systems contributed strongly to driver confidence across varied conditions. On looser surfaces and sand, the intelligent traction systems translated power cleanly to the ground, allowing steady forward momentum with reassuring stability – even when the surface suggested it might prefer otherwise.
Driver assistance technologies operated unobtrusively throughout our time with the vehicle. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping support and blind-spot monitoring worked smoothly in the background, while forward-collision mitigation systems added an extra layer of reassurance in traffic.
Visibility and manoeuvring support were equally effective. The surround-view camera and parking assistance features provided clear awareness when positioning a vehicle of this size – particularly useful in tighter spaces. Across changing surfaces and environments, the G700 consistently conveyed a sense of controlled security, combining capability with reassuring driver support.
Over our time with the Jetour G700, it became clear this is a vehicle conceived to bridge expectations: luxury and capability, electrification and endurance, presence and practicality. It delivered strong performance, impressive comfort and genuine versatility across the varied conditions we encountered. What stood out most was how cohesively those elements came together. The G700 did not present itself as a niche off-road specialist or an urban luxury SUV but rather as a well-rounded touring flagship designed for regional driving. For buyers seeking modern technology, commanding presence and authentic multi-terrain confidence in a single package, the G700 makes a compelling case. ✤
“The
G700 consistently conveyed a sense of controlled security, combining capability with reassuring driver support.”
Auto Class Cars presents the new Lynk & Co 01, promising premium not just as an option, but as standard.
Channeling urban chic, the vehicle’s exterior features creative modelling on the grille, inspired by 24-hour city traffic flow. High-performance LED headlights are integrated into the grille, split from the Aurora Borealis Daytime Running lights.
Energy cube LED lights consist of a group of 3D crystals and when the brake lights are on, the crystals appear to be filled with energy, showing the spirit and vigour of open urbanities. The dynamic balanced rear design, carved-like modelling and exposed dual exhaust pipes give the body a sense of vitality.
The Lynk & Co 01 interior design language adopts 12.3-inch and 12.8-inch smart screens to create a new premium high-tech cockpit. The leather steering wheel offers four-way manual adjustment, and the interior also boasts LED ambient lighting, dual zone automatic A/C, inside rear-view mirror auto dimming, integrated sport seats with various adjustment and support options and plenty of in-car storage.
The vehicle has a 2L turbo engine producing 218hp and 325N/m of torque and running on an eight-speed automatic transmission. And Lynk & Co 01 integrates 20 advanced driving assistance functions, including stability control, blind spot sensor and more, ensuring your safety at all times.
In addition, the Air-purifying Cabin effectively protects the driver and occupants from contamination outside the vehicle via a filter for air conditioner, AQS (Air Quality System), and active cabin cleaning system.
The car’s infotainment system enriches your driving experience. The intelligent connectivity seamlessly operates with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allowing easy access to music,
navigation and other applications anytime and anywhere.
The On-board computer with 8x performance amplification from two chips of Qualcomm Snapdragon 820A enables smoother interaction.
The futuristic HMI Interface high-frequency interface is simple and neat, making the operation easier and more efficient.
Other technology features include USB connection, CD, AUX, Bluetooth, premium sound system, wireless charging pad and 10 Harman Infinity speakers.
Lynk & Co vehicles are available through Auto Class Cars, the authorised general distributor, at the showroom in Salwa Road. ✤
GO: CALL 4040 1499 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Power Line Motors is bringing iCAUR vehicles to Qatar marking a shift in the premium SUV landscape.
The partnership introduces the city to vehicles that blend a rugged go-anywhere spirit with an almost obsessive attention to luxury. To cement the vision, journalists and industry insiders were invited to get behind the wheel of iCAUR V27 on Qatar’s roads, giving them the opportunity to experience the SUV’s appeal and cutting-edge innovation first-hand.
Power Line Motors also announced one of the largest iCAUR showrooms in the Middle East will open in Doha in 2026, and the company will introduce other models to the Qatari market this year.
The all-new flagship mid-to-large SUV features advanced RangeExtended Electric Vehicle (REEV) technology and is designed to bridge the gap between traditional power and electric efficiency. The five-seater SUV delivers a combined 449hp and 640Nm of torque, achieving 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds for the Dual E-Motor AWD versions with a 34.3 kWh battery. With a total range of 1,000km, the iCAUR V27 is designed to support both
daily city commutes and longer journeys without compromise. While the exterior design is bold and muscular, the all-new iCAUR V27’s interior exudes luxury, refinement and modernity. This premium SUV is equipped with a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 15-speaker audio system, automatic air conditioning, electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, a 64-colour ambient lighting system, 48 storage compartments and a dedicated mobile app for remote access and control, among many other features.
GO: VISIT ICAUR.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Qatar Automobiles Company invites drivers to experience the Mitsubishi Xpander, an SUV that combines quality and value for money.
The front of the vehicle has a futuristic look with a chrome upper grille, swept-back LED headlights and daytime running lights and incorporates Mitsubishi Motors' Dynamic Shield signature look. The LED position lamps are arranged in crystal-like blocks and the L-shaped LED rear combination lamps accentuate the strong stance. 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels in a two-tone finish, a shark fin antenna, side bumpers flush with the body and the side panels and rear quarter complete the robust and sculpted look.
The spacious interior provides comfort for all seven adult passengers thanks to supportive seating, convenient amenities and high-quality materials.
Flexibility in the seating configuration to meet changing needs also allows for easy loading. The second-row armrest can be folded down and the second and third-row seats fold flat to accommodate lengthy loads. There are also plenty of handy storage options such as a floor console box and underfloor luggage area. Additionally, entertainment and hands-free operation are available via the large Smartphone-link Display Audio which is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety is enhanced thanks to Mitsubishi Motors' Reinforced
Impact Safety Evolution body, or RISE, which efficiently absorbs energy and maintains high cabin integrity in the event of a collision and the Xpander also enjoys a variety of active safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Active Stability Control (ASC).
Power is provided by the 1.5-litre, 16-valve dual overhead camshaft engine with advanced MIVEC - Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system – making it easy for the Xpander to carry seven adults uphill with ease. ✤
GO: CALL 4422 7555 OR VISIT MITSUBISHI-MOTORS.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Step into a more advanced AI world with Samsung’s latest offerings, the new Galaxy S26 Series and Galaxy Buds4 Series.
It’s impossible to avoid AI technology nowadays and techdriven brands have been improving their products to seamlessly integrate it into our everyday lives. With that in mind, Samsung announced that the Galaxy S26 Series is powered by the most intuitive, proactive and adaptive Galaxy AI experiences yet.
Designed to simplify the tasks people do on their phones, Samsung’s third-generation AI phones, the Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra, handle complex tasks in the background, allowing users to focus on results. The all-new Galaxy S26 Series anticipates intent, supports everyday decision-making and delivers seamless experiences, making everyday actions feel effortless. How do they do it? Through features like Now Nudge, Now Brief and an upgraded Circle to Search with Google to deliver timely suggestions, personalised reminders and enhanced multi-object recognition. The series also brings an upgraded Bixby as a more conversational device. For those looking for better photography, there is an enhanced Nightography feature that delivers clearer low-light photos and video, while Galaxy AI tools support faster, more natural on-device creation and editing.
For those worried about privacy, the Galaxy S26 Ultra comes with a built-in Privacy Display, which controls how pixels disperse light to keep content clear for the user while limiting side-angle visibility for others, with customisable activation and adjustable modes.
In terms of performance, the series is built on the most powerful Galaxy S hardware to date and powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite
Gen 5 Mobile Platform, optimised for AI performance, power efficiency and thermal management. The Super Fast Charging 3.0 now reduces downtime by charging up to 75% in 30 minutes. Complementing the Galaxy S26 Series, the Galaxy Buds4 Series extends the connected Galaxy experience with audio that fits smoothly into daily routines, from calls to leisure. The new buds feature Hi-Fi audio, rich, clear sound reproduction, deeper focus and ultimate immersion, while playing music with minimal distortion and loss of sound details.
The Galaxy S26 Series is available for pre-order in four colours: cobalt violet, Sky Blue, black and white. ✤
GO: VISIT SAMSUNG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Apple has finally released the second generation of its much-loved AirTag, claiming it is the most findable option yet.
Almost five years on from the release of the original – which we now all take for granted – the company has come up with a new and improved version which, to the naked eye, looks pretty much the same as before.
In essence, the world’s most popular Bluetooth tracker hasn’t changed at all, visually. But what’s definitely different is the back room, where upgrades have introduced a significantly louder speaker and a greater range. The new AirTags also support precision finding from the Find My app on the Apple Watch or iPhone, so it’s never been easier to keep track of your stuff.
And even better, the upgraded AirTags cost exactly the same as their predecessor and are compatible with all the old accessories. ✤
GO: VISIT APPLE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
The latest in the Artist Series of turntables from Austrian powerhouse Pro-Ject Audio Systems pays tribute to one of the most influential rock bands of all time, Scorpions.
Designed for audiophiles, collectors and dedicated fans, this limited-edition turntable combines high-fidelity engineering with an exclusive Scorpions design, featuring the artwork from the band’s iconic Blackout album, that was released in 1982.
Based on the T2 turntable platform, it features a belt-drive design with advanced mechanical design and precision performance.
The CNC-machined plinth has been expanded in size to enhance stability, and it boasts a construction free of plastic components and meticulous manufacturing that eliminates any hollow spaces within, effectively preventing unwanted vibrations within the chassis. Furthermore, the glass platter is heavy, ensuring a zeroresonance design that effectively eliminates the shortcomings associated with plastic or lightweight steel alternatives.
The Scorpions turntable features a Pick it 25A moving magnet cartridge and comes with Pro-Ject’s adjustable spring-based antiskating mechanism that optimises its performance, while pure silver coil windings offer high-quality playback.
Like all the Artist Series turntables, the Scorpions version is a limited edition, so be quick if you want to get your hands on it. ✤
GO: VISIT PROJECT-AUDIO.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
The new General Manager of Le Méridien City Center Doha on the importance of building strong foundations and a supported team.
Congratulations on your recent promotion from Hotel Manager to General Manager. Please explain how this changes your role at the hotel.
Thank you. It’s an exciting milestone. While my role as Hotel Manager was very much focussed on day-to-day operations and guest experience, stepping into the General Manager position allows me to take a broader, more strategic view of the business. My focus now extends to shaping the long-term vision of the hotel, strengthening our commercial performance, nurturing partnerships and ensuring that every department is aligned with our brand values and goals. Ultimately, it’s about balancing operational excellence with sustainable growth and people development.
What are your plans and priorities for your new position?
My immediate priority is to continue building on the strong foundation already in place at Le Méridien City Center Doha. This includes elevating the guest journey, driving innovation across our food and beverage and events offerings and further positioning the hotel as a lifestyle and cultural hub in the city. Equally important is investing in our people – developing talent, encouraging internal growth and fostering a culture where creativity, accountability and collaboration thrive.
How would you describe your management style and how do you keep your team motivated?
I would describe my management style as inclusive, transparent
and people-centric. I believe in empowering teams by giving them a clear vision, the right tools and the trust to make decisions. Motivation comes from feeling valued and heard, so I place great importance on open communication, recognition and continuous development. When people feel inspired and supported, that energy naturally translates into memorable guest experiences.
What do you see as the future of the hospitality scene in Doha and the wider Gulf, and how are you adapting the hotel to this?
The hospitality scene in Doha and the wider Gulf is evolving rapidly, with a strong focus on experiential travel, sustainability and authentic cultural connections. Guests are seeking more than just accommodation – they want meaningful experiences and a sense of place. At Le Méridien City Center Doha, we are adapting by curating lifestyle-driven offerings, embracing innovation and weaving local culture into everything we do, while maintaining the high standards of service the region is known for.
On a more personal note, what’s on your bucket list for 2026?
Professionally, I’d love to continue growing as a leader while mentoring the next generation of hoteliers. Personally, I hope to travel more intentionally – exploring destinations that inspire creativity and offer a deeper cultural connection. And, like many of us, I aim to keep finding better balance between a dynamic career and meaningful time with family and friends. ✤
Jad Doumet, General Manager, Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection, talks proud achievements, colleague empowerment and an interesting hobby.
After almost two years at the property, the GM says he is proud of the structural transformation that’s taken place rather than any single milestone. He explains:
“We strengthened commercial fundamentals, elevated our food and beverage positioning and significantly improved guest satisfaction scores while maintaining strong financial growth. None of this would have been possible without a fully engaged and committed team. By fostering ownership, transparency and shared accountability across departments, we’ve created an environment where colleagues feel empowered to contribute to the hotel’s success. That collective commitment has been the true foundation of our progress.”
Looking ahead, the focus is on sustainable positioning aiming to further strengthen Alwadi as a lifestyle-driven boutique destination in Msheireb and deepen storytelling through the MGallery ethos. The property’s transformation continues to evolve, with Jad saying: “Ibn AlBahr has launched successfully and is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about seafood destinations in Doha. O’Glacée is entering its next chapter, following the strong success of Iguana as a cloud kitchen and its standout debut at Qatar International Food Festival. We will officially relaunch the space as Iguana Mexican Kitchen at the beginning of Q2. At the same time, we recently welcomed a new Executive Chef who brings extensive experience from the Pacific region. He is currently leading a comprehensive
elevation and relaunch of menus across the hotel.
“Infinity Rooftop also has exciting plans ahead, with a further elevation later this year to reinforce its position as a leading skyline destination.
“And, at M Spa, we strengthened the team with senior talent, upgraded treatment offerings, refurbished selected areas and introduced retail opportunities to increase guest engagement and revenue diversification.”
Speaking of the challenges facing the hospitality sector, the GM says luxury is no longer defined by scale or design alone but, rather, what truly remains in a guest’s memory is the quality of service and the emotional connection they experience during their stay.
He adds: “The real challenge in Qatar and across the region is sustaining relevance beyond the initial impression. Guests seek authenticity, warmth and experiences that feel personal. The moments that linger long after checkout are shaped by genuine interactions, thoughtful gestures and a sense of connection to place.
“At Alwadi Hotel Doha, our approach is guided by the MGallery brand pillars of creating meaningful and memorable moments. Memorable through distinctive design, curated experiences and culinary storytelling whilst meaningful through genuine service, local connection and authentic engagement.
“It begins with presence and attentiveness and continues with empathy and genuine understanding. It evolves through storytelling and shared experiences and ultimately culminates in creating personalised moments that feel authentic rather than scripted.”
And he’s quick to point out that all of this is only possible through engaged teams with colleagues who feel valued, trained and empowered – an area in which Alwadi invests significant resources.
This is an attitude the GM carries over into his day-to-day running of the property, explaining: “I believe the most important quality is consistency. Hospitality is built on trust. Guests return when they know the experience will feel just as welcoming, attentive and refined every single time. That consistency starts with leadership. It means setting standards, living them daily and remaining present and accessible to the team.
“At Alwadi, I demonstrate this through visible presence and structured engagement with the team. I conduct regular roundtable sessions with every department, creating a platform where colleagues can openly share feedback, challenges and ideas. Listening is essential, but acting on that feedback is even more important. When changes are implemented based on what truly matters to the team, it builds trust and ownership.
“We complement this with continuous training and clear performance expectations, ensuring both front-of-house and back-of-house colleagues feel aligned and supported. When people feel heard and valued, motivation becomes intrinsic. And when teams are engaged, the guest experience naturally becomes more genuine, consistent and memorable.”
On a more personal note, we asked the GM to share a fun fact about himself and he didn’t disappoint.
“A fun fact about me is that I collect hotel key cards from every property I’ve stayed in. It’s my own version of a travel diary. Each card captures a moment in time and a distinct sense of place. I often joke that I’ve visited more hotel lobbies than museums. I am fascinated by how each lobby tells a story through architecture, lighting and atmosphere. It constantly inspires me and reminds me that hospitality is, at its core, about storytelling and emotion.” ✤
Anders Groenholm, Executive Chef, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, tells us of his early inspiration, pride in his team and the importance of consistency.
Can you still remember the dish that made you want to become a chef and what was the first dish you learned to cook as a professional?
I never set out to become a chef, but I’ve always loved food. As a child, my mother would say, ‘One day, you’ll be a chef,’ and as it turns out, mothers often know best. The moment it truly clicked was during my apprenticeship. I was working on what felt like an impossibly complex dish: diced potatoes, onions, cubes of roasted meat, layered with sauces and served with homemade beets, rye bread and warm Béarnaise sauce. It took me forever. But when I finally served it and heard the feedback; mostly from family members, something changed. Today, I could prepare that same dish in 10 to 15 minutes. Back then, it felt monumental. But in those ‘good old days,’ I discovered the magic of cooking for others. From that moment, there was no turning back.
Please tell us about the restaurants and outlets you oversee at Hilton Salwa. Do you have a favourite and how do you maintain a consistently high standard?
At Hilton Salwa, I oversee a wide range of dining experiences including Dante Cucina Italiana (Italian), Ms. Wong (Chinese), Levantine (Arabic), Souk Kitchen (international), Nesma Lobby Lounge, South Pool, MIQA, Telal Café and The League Restaurant & Sports Bar. Each venue has its own identity, rhythm, and personality. If I had to choose a favourite, it would be Ms. Wong, our Chinese restaurant. If it were located in Doha city, it would easily be among the top dining destinations. The food is authentic, bold and deeply flavourful, the kind of cuisine that speaks for itself. Maintaining consistently high standards comes down to mindset. Consistency isn’t accidental; it’s built through continuous training, motivation, encouragement, honest feedback and then repeating
the process. Excellence has to be nurtured every single day.
What’s the achievement you’re proudest of in your career to date?
Without question, it’s being part of young chefs’ journeys. Watching them grow, professionally and personally, and seeing them become what they’ve worked toward for years is incredibly rewarding. Occasionally, I visit former workplaces and reconnect with chefs I once mentored. When I see those systems, values and initiatives we introduced together are still in place, and still working, it fills me with pride.
That kind of legacy matters more than any single dish.
Please tell us about your signature dish at Hilton Salwa, how it was developed and what makes it popular?
One of my signature dishes at Hilton Salwa is Korean beef short ribs, Galbi. It’s a dish that’s very personal to me and reflects my time working across Asia, especially in Korea, where I developed a real respect for balance in flavour. We prepare it using a traditional marinade with soy, pear, garlic, ginger and mirin, which gives the meat both depth and tenderness. Then it’s grilled to get that slightly smoky, caramelised finish. It’s simple in concept, but it relies on doing every step properly.
I think guests connect with it because it’s both comforting and full of flavour, but still feels refined. It’s familiar enough to enjoy easily but has a story and technique behind it. More broadly, my cooking at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort is shaped by my experiences across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. You’ll see that in dishes ranging from classic smørrebrød to more expressive plates like this Galbi. For me, it always comes back to respecting the ingredients and creating something that feels genuine. At the end of the day, I want guests to remember how the food made them feel. That’s what matters most. ✤
We chatted with Antonio Sanchez, Head Chef at Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton, about waste minimisation, refining classic dishes and his ideal dinner guests. •
Having started out as a hotel steward, Chef Antonio discovered his passion for the culinary arts through helping out in the kitchen. After honing his skills for several years, including serving 1,200 diners at a time as chef on a Disney Cruise ship, he arrived at Aleph Doha Residences in 2023 and has been busy building the reputation of the hotel’s dining offerings since then. He says: “Each culinary outlet has its own identity, audience and purpose, so innovation starts with ensuring every
concept evolves in a way that feels authentic rather than forced. Our approach focusses on menu agility, seasonal storytelling and creating experiences that guests can return to for something new each time.
“At IKA, our South American concept, innovation comes through bold flavour exploration and menu rotation inspired by Peruvian and Nikkei influences. We continuously introduce seasonal seafood selections, citrus-forward dishes and limited-time chef specials that highlight local sourcing and full-product utilisation
to minimise waste while elevating creativity on the plate.
“MONDO is designed around comfort dining with a refined touch.
Here, innovation is more subtle and guest-centric. We refresh the menu with seasonal produce, introduce lighter and wellnessfocussed options and refine classic dishes through better sourcing and thoughtful preparation. The goal is familiarity with a sense of progression rather than constant reinvention.
“WAKA brings a social, lifestyle-driven energy to the portfolio. It is where we experiment the most with formats such as shareable plates, themed evenings, match-day offerings and hookahpairing menus. New developments are focussed on enhancing the communal experience, with bold, easy-to-enjoy flavours and rotating bites designed for repeat visits.”
Across all three outlets, sustainability and responsible sourcing remain central to how the team innovates. Whether through seasonal menus, supplier partnerships or reducing waste through full-ingredient utilisation, every update is designed to balance creativity, guest expectations and long-term impact.
That same respect for the environment and culinary traditions is evident in the things Chef Antonio considers kitchen essentials.
“For me, the essentials are both emotional and practical,” he says.
“The three ‘ingredients’ I consider fundamental in every kitchen are olive oil, love and passion. Olive oil builds flavour, while love and passion are what turn cooking into genuine hospitality.
“My philosophy is rooted in tradition. Technique and respect for the product always come first, allowing the ingredients to speak for themselves.
“At the same time, modern tools like the Thermomix and sous vide help us achieve precision and consistency in our daily operations. Yet the most indispensable tool in my kitchen remains the mortar and pestle. It represents craftsmanship, heritage and the fundamentals of real flavour.”
It’s no surprise then that the signature dish he chooses to highlight is something that’s very traditionally South American – the classic ceviche.
He explains: “Our ceviche at IKA is our signature dish and a true reflection of the restaurant’s identity. It showcases fresh seafood, precise knife work, balanced acidity and clean presentation.
“The leche de tigre is prepared in house, layered with citrus, chilli and depth from carefully made stock, creating a flavour that is vibrant yet refined.
“What makes the dish special is its balance. It is sharp yet elegant, bold yet controlled. While it appears simple on the plate, it requires technical precision and a deep respect for the ingredients, which perfectly represents what IKA stands for.”
And, on a more personal note, asked who his own ideal dinner guest would be and what he would serve, the chef, once again, reveals the very personal and emotional side of cooking, saying: “My parents. I miss them deeply, and they were always the most honest audience at my table. I would cook something simple –brown lentil stew and fried fish. Nothing luxurious, just comfort food made with care.
“I miss their feedback, their comments over a meal and that simple joy of cooking purely to see them happy.” ✤
Bombay Balti is a confident celebration of Indian curry-house dining, proudly embracing bold, comforting dishes and a recently revamped, varied menu. While retaining the familiar favourites that loyal diners expect, it has introduced a refreshed selection designed to suit every palate. Alongside its rich, aromatic curries are thoughtfully prepared vegetarian options and fish dishes, ensuring variety without losing the heart of what Bombay Balti does best. It’s easy to see why the restaurant has become a firm favourite among diners seeking authentic Indian cooking served with consistency and warmth.
Located in the lower lobby of Doha’s iconic Radisson Blu, Bombay Balti occupies a large open space that immediately felt lively and inviting. Traditional Indian music played softly as draped fabrics in the colours of the national flag flowed across the ceiling, setting a celebratory tone. Waitresses dressed in traditional attire moved through the room, while trinkets and statues honouring the origins of the cuisine added character and depth. The layout struck a careful balance between sociable and intimate, with generously sized tables for larger groups and cosy booths for those seeking a more private dining experience. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt warm and welcoming. Kumar, our host for the evening, greeted us with genuine friendliness and looked after us throughout our visit, ensuring we felt relaxed and eager to begin. Surrounded by colour, music and the hum of a popular dining room, we settled in, excited to explore the chef-recommended dishes and experience the flavours that Bombay Balti so proudly champions.
We began with a pair of starters that set a refined and reassuring tone. The Mahi Ajwaini Boti arrived beautifully presented, its lightly charred exterior hinting at time spent in the tandoor. The fish was exceptionally soft and flaky, infused with gentle warmth from ginger, garlic and tandoori spices. Carom seeds added an aromatic note without overpowering, while the yoghurt marinade kept the flesh delicate and moist, allowing the natural taste to come through. Equally impressive was the Tandoor Khumb, served hot and inviting. Plump mushrooms were cooked to a perfect tenderness, their earthy character complemented by a rich filling of nuts, cheese and spinach. The textures worked in harmony, soft and creamy within, with a subtle smokiness from the tandoor making it a comforting yet indulgent start to the meal.
The mains arrived together, filling the table in a vivid display of colour and texture, each dish presented with care and clearly cooked fresh to order. Laid out side by side, the spread felt almost artistic, inviting us to dip in and explore at our own pace. The Murg Shali was a comforting classic, bathed in a luxuriously smooth korma sauce. Cashew nuts and tomatoes formed a rich, velvety base, while touches of fried onion added depth and gentle sweetness. The chicken was tender throughout, perfectly suited to the creamy, indulgent sauce. In contrast, the Handi Vegetable Masala brought warmth and balance. A medley of mixed vegetables sat in a thick, semi-gravy infused with Indian
spices, chopped onion, capsicum and tomato. The sauce clung beautifully to each vegetable, offering both substance and spice without overwhelming the palate.
The standout for depth of flavour was the Lamb Dhania Adhrakhi. Generous, chunky pieces of lamb were slow-cooked to exceptional tenderness, coated in a thick onion-based gravy fragrant with ginger and fresh coriander. A subtle touch of cream rounded out the chef’s secret spice blend, resulting in a dish that was rich, warming and deeply satisfying. To accompany the curries, the Dhal Pancharatan provided a softer, more soothing element. Five varieties of lentils were gently tempered with cumin seeds, garlic and aromatic spices, finished with ghee and fresh coriander. The texture was smooth and comforting, ideal for balancing the bolder flavours on the table.
Completing the feast, the Jeera Rice was light and fragrant, each grain of basmati perfectly cooked and lightly sautéed with cumin seeds and ghee. Simple yet essential, it tied the meal together beautifully. Served with a generous platter of bread to dip in the sauces and use to mop up the remaining deliciousness from our plates.
Dessert provided a fittingly indulgent close to an already generous meal. The Shahi Tukda lived up to its royal reputation, with crispedged bread softened by fragrant, sweetened milk and finished with a scattering of nuts that added both texture and richness. Alongside it, the Gulab Jamun was beautifully tender, each syrupsoaked dumpling delicately perfumed with rose water and melting effortlessly on the palate. By the end, we were thoroughly satisfied and full, the kind of contentment that only a well-executed Indian feast can bring. It was a memorable meal from start to finish: full of flavour, generous in portion, and deeply comforting. ✤
Doha may slow down on weekends (not in February or March, though) but La Vista 55 comes alive every evening. Located on the 55th floor of InterContinental Doha The City, this spot is no stranger to the capital’s nightlife scene. It's been a while since we've been here and we're pleasantly surprised by the slick and stylish interiors. Deep greens and emerald tones dominate the space and hanging vines create an upscale, moody atmosphere. Dark wood floors and panels add sophistication and make the experience even more lounge-like. We adore the yellow neon signage. It adds a funky touch and a brown leather couch at the entrance keeps our eyes busy. This is a great photo spot. We should have dressed better. There's a small stage and plenty of space in front – making it perfect for events and experiences. The staff tell us tonight is a special night – salsa dancers from Doha will be livening up the venue.
La Vista 55 immediately stands out for its sweeping vistas of Doha. From this high up, the views are unlike any other. Doha is all lit up and shining and it almost feels like we're in a cloud of sparkly jewels. The cascading plants create an urban jungle vibe and it perfectly complements what our eyes see outside the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Our hosts for tonight introduce themselves and recommend a few mocktails from the menu. One of them is insistent – we must try the Pinacolada. So we humbly comply and our drinks arrive shortly after. Unlike the regular versions, this mocktail is rather light. We can see why he recommended it and we're pleased we agreed. The menu is short and sweet – all the bar classics and comfort
foods. From mini burgers and spinach dips to salads and mains, we have everything we need here. We start off with the Appetiser Platter which has all the favourites.
The serving is generous with mozzarellasticks, saucy chicken wings, rock shrimp, French fries and two dipping sauces –marinara and truffle. Also featured is some fried ravioli. In all honesty, this is something we've never tried, and we just don't know why. It's the perfect accompaniment and a few pieces do not harm our calorie counting. The ravioli is crunchy on the outside and pairs incredibly well with the truffle sauce. Also noteworthy is the rock shrimp – crispy with a nice hit of heat. We probably should have ordered an individual portion of this. But this works too, because we get to try a little bit of everything.
And how do we balance all that deep-fried goodness? With a bowl of salad, of course. We order the crab salad mixed with lettuce and avocado and it comes with a light mayo dressing. It's citrusy and fresh and would be perfect for a summer day. We're pretty stuffed from the appetisers but a delicious beef steak on the menu grabs our attention. One main to share is never a bad idea.
The grilled beef fillet is slathered in mushroom sauce and served alongside potato wedges and a truffle dipping sauce –an excellent combination. The meat is cooked medium (one of us is just not accustomed enough to the worldly ways). Great for sharing, this steak is the ideal quantity for two diners who just consumed an entire gigantic appetiser platter. With the vibrant atmosphere, if we weren't slightly embarrassed, we might have gotten up to shake a leg to the DJ's groovy tunes. At least to digest that indulgent steak. But let's leave that for another time.
La Vista 55 is a lively midweek spot (if you're willing to burn the midnight oil here) with the DJ kicking off at 9.30pm and entertainment starting at 11pm. Why wait until the weekend to live it up? Weekdays should be just as fun and La Vista 55 is doing it right. The service was spot on – no fuss and friendly staff always around checking on us and taking our orders. We'll probably be back before sunset next time – the golden hours here must be spectacular. ✤
Set in a prime promenade position on the magnificent Gewan Island, Chai Wu has made an immediate impression as a polished newcomer to Doha’s dining scene. Overlooking the waterfront, the contemporary restaurant felt perfectly placed; the calm of the promenade paired effortlessly with the eatery's refined interiors, setting an unhurried and elegant tone. Adding a luxury spin to pan-Asian cuisine, Chai Wu’s extensive menu was vibrant with colour, texture and bold flavours. Picture-perfect dim sum sat alongside delicate sushi bites and refined signature plates, with popular favourites reimagined through a modern lens.
The interiors echoed this balance of refinement and comfort. Neutral tones, plush fabrics and supple leather were accented with subtle hints of red, a quiet nod to tradition. An eclectic mix of seating felt carefully curated rather than crowded, while comfortable chairs encouraged relaxed conversation. Both indoor and terrace were equally inviting, with outdoor air conditioning a welcome touch as temperatures begin to rise. The service was warm and professional throughout. Our server, Amir, spoke confidently about the restaurant’s popularity since opening, particularly at weekends, and his menu knowledge was impressive. Drinks arrived as we browsed the menu and admired the waterfront view – a leisurely, polished start to the dining experience.
We began with a trio of starters that were as visually striking as they were generous in flavour. Each dish arrived beautifully presented, laid out with the precision of fine art and immediately inviting us to dive in.
The Crunchy Crab & Avocado Salad was layered thoughtfully, encouraging you to dig beneath the surface. Scooping up the crab and avocado together delivered a rich, indulgent mouthful, balanced by the freshness of microgreen leaves. The crunchy
crab added texture, while the avocado brought a creamy depth, all lifted by a glossy kecap manis (sweet soy) sauce. A finishing touch of orange tobiko added delicate pops of sweetness and a subtle brininess. Next, the Wasabi Prawns offered a pleasing contrast in both flavour and texture. Encased in a light, sweet batter, the prawns were crisp without feeling heavy. The wasabi dressing introduced a gentle heat (present but never overpowering) while the mango salsa added brightness and a soft, tropical sweetness that rounded the dish beautifully. The Thai Mango Tempura Maki Roll was a standout for presentation alone. Arranged with exquisite care, it resembled a piece of edible artwork, finished with fine slices of truffle and delicate touches of gold leaf. Inside, the combination of tempura shrimp, Hass avocado and Thai mango salsa delivered a harmonious balance of crunch, creaminess and freshness. Each bite felt luxurious yet playful, a perfect expression of Chai Wu’s modern approach to pan-Asian cuisine.
The main courses unfolded as a true highlight of the afternoon, made even more special by the personal touch of the kitchen. During this course, Chef Joseph joined us at the table, having curated a selection of the restaurant’s most popular dishes for us to sample. Warm, cheery and genuinely engaged, he took time to check in and ensure we were enjoying the experience; a thoughtful gesture that added depth and personality to the meal. One of the first standout dishes was the Sando Wagyu, recommended by the chef to be enjoyed medium and dipped generously into its accompanying sauce. Perfectly toasted bread had been cut into neat rectangles, encasing the soft, richly marbled Wagyu right to the edges. Finely chopped onions added a welcome crunch, contrasting beautifully with the melt-in-themouth meat. Each bite felt indulgent yet balanced, with the sauce enhancing rather than overpowering the natural flavour of the beef. The Chai Wu Steamed Dim Sum Platter arrived nestled in a steaming basket, releasing a gentle waft of aromatic heat as the lid was lifted. Inside was a generous selection: crab meat and seafood dumplings, duck and pine nut, lobster, prawn, vegetarian dumplings, and scallop and prawn XO shao mai. Each piece was delicately crafted, offering its own distinct texture and flavour, from silky and refined, to rich and deeply savoury. The Robata Chicken Wings followed, presented on skewers for an interactive, shareable experience. Glazed lightly in teriyaki and seasoned with garlic yuzu, the wings were juicy and wellcharred, with a dipping sauce served on the side to allow diners to control the intensity. The balance of sweet, savoury and citrus notes rendered them moreish without feeling heavy. The undeniable centrepiece of the mains, however, was the Braised Wagyu Short Ribs. Presented tableside, the dish was theatrical and exciting. Served in a large stone bowl designed to retain heat, the short ribs arrived steaming, succulent, and deeply aromatic. A rich sauce, made from the juices of the Wagyu slowcooked over eight hours, was poured in first, creating a satisfying sizzle. The meat was then gently shredded and folded into fragrant rice and exotic mushrooms, soft enough to be served with two spoons. Heaped spoonfuls were shared around the table, each mouthful rich, tender and deeply satisfying. We ended the evening with a decadent chocolate mousse,
its deep richness softened by thick, creamy vanilla ice cream, a final touch of indulgence that mirrored the experience as a whole. From the refined presentation to the attentive hosting, the restaurant strikes a careful balance between luxury and warmth, never feeling formal or overstated. It’s a space and a menu designed to be savoured, where thoughtful details elevate every moment. A must try for everyone! ✤
Part destination, part everyday stop, Harvest Coffee has naturally folded into how people across Doha meet, work and spend time. Here’s how it came together.
Doha has no shortage of cafés: good ones, beautifully designed ones, serious speciality spots. What the city still somewhat lacks, though, are the places people genuinely stay in. The ones that feel lived-in. Easy. Somewhere between a social space, a work corner and a second living room. Harvest Coffee tapped into that early on, and it’s a big part of why it works. When the founders first started shaping it, the goal wasn’t to open another aesthetic coffee shop. It was to create somewhere guests could come in, spend time and treat it like part of their day. That ‘home away from home’ idea isn’t just branding language, it runs through everything. The way the space is laid out, how service feels, how the menu moves from morning into afternoon without friction. Coffee is central, obviously, but the experience around it matters just as much. It’s about routine, community and giving people a place to pause in a city that moves fast. What started in The Pearl has grown steadily across Doha, with locations now in West Walk, Education City and Qatar Finance And Business Academy, plus a major flagship on the way in Msheireb. Recently ranked at #44 in the World's Best Coffee Shops, the highest global ranking for a Qatari brand, the ambition is there: to position Harvest Coffee as a Qatari speciality brand that can stand on a global level, but the feel remains local. The same faces return week after week, shaping the atmosphere as much as the design itself. But newcomers are equally welcome, very soon feeling like part of the family.
Walk into any Harvest Coffee and you get it straight away. Natural light, plants, warm wood, raw textures. Terraces play a big role, especially during the cooler months, when the branches' outdoor seating areas become some of the most lived-in corners of the city. At The Pearl, windows open wide onto the waterfront. At West Walk, glass doors slide fully open and the whole space spills outside. Inside, the layout is intentionally mixed. Communal areas for groups and casual meetings, quieter corners when you want to stay low-key, and a few familiar seats that regulars seem to return to instinctively. The balance works. You can come alone and blend in or arrive with friends and settle in for hours without feeling out of place.
Coffee, of course, is at the core of it all. The beans are sourced from Latin America, Africa and East Asia, rotating seasonally to keep the selection fresh. The focus leans towards clean, balanced profiles (sometimes fruity and bright, sometimes deeper with chocolate notes) but always approachable. And the manual brew bar is where Harvest really stands out. The V60 is a signature here. Pour-over brewing is about letting the true flavour of the bean come through, and a lot of coffees are intentionally served black to highlight their clarity and complexity. Each one arrives on a stainless-steel tray with a glass server, and you pour it yourself. It’s simple, but it changes the pace.
Harvest Coffee isn’t messing around when it comes to food either. We show up on a Sunday morning at The Pearl, already locked in on what we are going to eat, not in a cute brunch way, more like ‘we literally skipped breakfast for this’ energy. The sun is out, a light breeze, that crisp Doha winter light when everyone pulls out jackets and calls it cold, and I’m just there thinking: this is literally spring weather. Best season, no debate. The place is already busy when we walk in. Seats full, coffees landing every minute, people mid-conversation. We head straight for the terrace and within minutes, our table
starts filling up. Not one plate. Not two. Suddenly: eggs, toast, bowls, sweets, drinks. Full brunch situation. The one where everything ends up in the middle and you just reach, swap, taste, without asking permission.
First order: the Benedict. Warm, soft and rich from the first bite. The hollandaise runs straight into the sourdough bread, the eggs melt into everything and the avocado rounds it out. It’s creamy, slightly messy, and exactly what you want from a proper brunch plate. The Mushroom Toast goes in a completely different direction. Deeper, more savoury, almost slow and comforting. The mushrooms bring that umami weight, the eggs keep it soft, and the Parmesan adds just enough sharpness to cut through the creaminess. On to the Muhammara Toast. There’s a gentle tang, a bit of sweetness from the pepper, nuttiness in the background, and little hits of freshness coming through. Not your typical brunch toast but easily one of the most interesting plates on the table. The Harvest Tuna Toastie is also a surprise. Crisp outside, smooth and creamy inside. The tuna mousse is rich but lightened by the dried tomato, while the pesto brings a fresh, slightly sharp edge that cuts through everything. We expected something simple, but it ends up being our favourite.
For sweets, the chia bowls sit on the lighter end of the spectrum. One tropical with mango puree, and topped with fresh mango, raspberry, lime zest and almond flakes. The other is more indulgent, with homemade peanut butter and raspberry jam, peanuts and flaxseeds. Our clear standout, though, are the blintzes. Golden on the outside, soft inside, filled with a mix of feta, mascarpone and cream cheese, then finished with blueberry compote, honey and icing sugar. Sweet, salty, and very hard to stop eating, we finish the plate in no time. At this point we’re full, but we keep hearing the same thing: the cheesecake is one of the most ordered desserts here at Harvest Coffee. So, of course, we have to give it a try. A classic baked Philadelphia cheesecake with a crushed digestive base and fresh strawberry on top. Straightforward, well executed and exactly what you want once brunch has turned into a long afternoon. The Sunday in Doha pancakes are clearly calling our name too, but we’ll take that as our cue to come back and keep working our way through the menu. From the service, unobtrusive and professional but at the same time friendly and approachable, to the surroundings – like home, except you known you’re ‘out, out’ – to the quality and diversity of the menu, Harvest has certainly achieved what it set out to do. A café that feels like a genuine social meeting spot, where everyone’s comfortable and welcome. It’s all backed up by some of the best coffee around. What’s not to love ? ✤ GO: CALL 3321 1198 (THE PEARL
Switzerland has always had a particular hold on me: the landscapes, the stillness, the way well-being feels like second nature. So being immersed in a spa concept born in the heart of the Alps, right here in Doha, felt like exactly where I needed to be.
Unlike many spa ‘stories’ that stay purely conceptual, Pürovel Spa & Sport’s philosophy translates seamlessly into the space. Pale wood runs throughout, paired with light stone, soft marble and a palette of warm neutrals (beige, sand, soft ochre). My favourite part? The Alpine Garden Wall. Made of preserved natural grass, it adds an understated outdoor feel to the place. Even the treatment rooms stay true to the theme, with women’s rooms named after flowers and men’s after trees. Nature is very much the main character here.
I was welcomed by Nicolletta, the spa manager. Warm, attentive, genuinely lovely, the sort of energy that immediately makes you at ease. She offered me chamomile tea, which is essentially relaxation in liquid form and the perfect way to settle into the experience. Khaoula, my therapist for the day, led me to a softly lit room, fully set up so I could change right there. No communal changing areas, no lockers, just my own private space, which always feels like a small luxury.
I was there to try the Swiss Vitality Journey, which began with a Hybrid Massage using cryo balls. I’ll admit it, when I heard the word cryo, I was a bit afraid. In my head, a spa day means warmth, oils and cocooning. Cold tools? Fine for the face. For the body… less appealing. Then I took a breath, found a bit of courage and reminded myself that I once survived -48°C in Lapland, complete with frozen eyelashes. Compared to that, a couple of cryo balls didn’t stand much of a chance. And honestly, I know better. Cold therapy has long been used for its benefits: easing muscle tension, improving circulation, reducing inflammation and boosting recovery. Exactly what this treatment is designed for, especially if you’re active, sore or simply running low on energy.
We started with a grounding foot ritual using Alpine salt, which immediately pulled me out of my head and into my body. From there, the massage unfolded slowly, section by section. Khaoula would warm an area first with coconut oil, then follow with the cryo balls, creating this addictive play between heat and cold. The cryo balls are kept in the fridge overnight and placed under water during the treatment to maintain their temperature. On my legs, the sensation felt refreshing and uplifting. On my back, it was more intense as she used two cryo balls at once but always balanced by the warmth of her hands and elbows. Her pressure was firm but never uncomfortable. She added a few stretches around my shoulders, then spent a very generous amount of time on my neck, pressing, lengthening, releasing all the tensions. The session ended with guided breathing: inhaling, holding the breath as she applied pressure to my rib cage, then slowly exhaling.
The best part? How I felt afterwards. I was relaxed, yes, but also energised. No urge to collapse into bed, just that rare sense of being both restored and fully functional, without the usual post-massage shutdown. After a short tea break, Khaoula set up the room for the second part of the Swiss Vitality Journey, this time focussed entirely on the face. As someone who takes facials very seriously, this was the moment I’d been quietly looking forward to. The Brightening Facial uses Nescens, a Swiss cosmeceutical brand I already knew. It sits in that very specific space between clinical science and luxury skincare, and Pürovel Spa & Sport is currently the only spa in Qatar offering it, which alone makes it worth knowing if high-performance formulas are your thing.
The facial opened with a proper cleanse. Make-up off, skin checked, then a cleansing gel worked with water until it turned silky and creamy. Exfoliation came in two stages: first, a gentle chemical pass using the Keratolytic Complex to refine texture and resurface, left on just long enough for a perfectly timed scalp massage. Then a second, more mechanical exfoliation to smooth everything further. Warm towels followed, mainly around the T-zone, softening and opening pores before extractions. When she began applying serums (Dark Spot Correcting
and Bio-Identical Rehydrating), I assumed we were nearing the end. Not quite. This was actually the start of a massage. Applying them at this stage allows the active ingredients to sink in more deeply as the skin is worked. The movements shifted between lifting and sculpting, alternating light pressure with deeper strokes along the jawline, cheeks and temples. Relaxing, yes, but clearly designed to boost circulation and leave my complexion looking fresher, more awake. From there, it flowed straight into masking. A BioIdentical Restoring Mask to strengthen the barrier and lock in hydration, paired with a cooling Renewing Gel Mask around the eyes to smooth and revive. While everything was working its magic, the therapist offered a hand and arm massage. After rinsing, the same serums were layered back in, followed by the Bio-Identical Relipidating Cream to seal everything comfortably in place. When I looked in the mirror, my skin looked fresh, properly hydrated and noticeably brighter, but still like mine on a good day. Safe to say, this new Swiss-born spot has officially entered my regular rotation. ✤
Rooted in Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som approaches well-being as a structured system, one Sirine Boudjadi experienced through a fully tailored stay.
Wellness resorts once felt like a niche escape. Now, they’re increasingly part of how people reset, a pause from packed schedules, short nights and meals eaten on the go. A few days where the structure is already there: movement, rest, thoughtful food, treatments, silence. In the GCC, though, true destination wellness remains rare. Not simply a luxury hotel with a spa, but places built entirely around preventative health and long-term balance. Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som has quickly become the region’s benchmark, backed by decades of expertise from the Thai institution. About 100 kilometres north of Doha, the resort is designed to feel set apart and the approach is rooted in Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM), which shapes the experience from the ground up. That intention is clear from the moment I arrive. No lobby rush, a warm welcome as I'm met at the car and guided through the resort’s House of Wisdom, a vast library lined with thousands of books. Check-in happens over tea, following a short conversation with Aung, the resident tea expert who tailors a blend to the moment and to personal preferences. References to TAIM appear almost instantly: an illustration of Ibn Sina, a replica of one of his key texts (The Canon of Medicine), an apothecary preparing herbal remedies. The philosophy isn’t presented as branding but as a working framework, feeding into treatments, nutrition and daily routines.
Before heading into my first consultation, I stop for lunch. Each dish comes with a nutritional breakdown, but the emphasis is on how it supports energy levels and recovery across the day. At Al Sidr, the Pan-Asian restaurant, a hibiscus lemonade made with coconut water replaces the usual sugary mocktail. The Green Goddess soup (broccoli, kale, spinach, ginger and turmeric) is warming and easy to digest. Later, a Thai prawn noodle dish delivers enough spice to wake everything up. Different dessert options are available, but I prefer to keep things simple with fresh fruit.
The resort is split between two areas: Serenity, for adults, and Discovery, which welcomes families, with some facilities reserved for guests aged 16 and over. Most sessions take place on the Serenity side, centred around the House of Wellness and Healing, where you stop before each appointment. From there, the practitioner you’re seeing comes to meet you and guides you to the relevant pavilion: physiotherapy in one, fitness in another and so on. My first stop is a consultation with the naturopath. We talk through sleep, digestion, injuries, stress levels, menstrual cycle and daily habits, sketching out the rhythms of everyday life before anything is suggested. Depending on the profile and priorities, the stay can include anything from movement and recovery sessions to massages, beauty treatments and nutritional guidance. The posture assessment that follows becomes the first real
confrontation with my body. Alignment, spinal curvature, hip balance, how weight is distributed through the feet… Dorra, the physiotherapist, guides me through a series of simple movements to identify muscular imbalances and compensation patterns. The focus isn’t on fixing anything instantly, but on building a practical path forward: targeted exercises, posture adjustments and small corrections that can realistically be sustained once back home.
By the time I reach my room, the day has already been full. The atmosphere shifts immediately to a quieter, more contained one. The Serenity Deluxe Lagoon room opens directly onto the water, with a private terrace and shaded loungers extending the living space outdoors. Interiors are restrained: neutral tones, light wood, stone and soft textiles, with subtle Arabian references. Floor-to-ceiling glass keeps the lagoon in view and brings in natural light. All of this makes it very easy to switch off and I could easily take a nap at this point. But the schedule keeps moving.
My next treatment is an Invigorating Massage with Orn, a Thai therapist, and it immediately stands apart from the massages I’m used to. With my job, I’ve had plenty over the years, but never with this kind of speed. Her hands move quickly, almost relentlessly: long, fast strokes followed by light pinching and sudden targeted pressure, the pace
never really dropping. My skin warms up within minutes, which never happens; I’m usually cold during massages. By the end I'm very alert and ready for dinner at Acacia, the resort’s fine-dining restaurant, where a seafood tasting menu somehow manages to be both indulgent and light. More on that in a future issue, but I finish everything and still feel comfortable afterwards. Back in the room, I fall asleep almost immediately. It’s been a full day, and for once my body actually agrees.
My next morning starts at Aizoon, the resort’s Middle Eastern restaurant, on the Discovery side of the property. Breakfast leans functional: granola, energy salads, madeto-order eggs, gluten-free pastries, broths and targeted addons like black seed oil shots. It easily becomes my default spot throughout the stay. I come back for lunch and dinner, where the format shifts slightly with buffet-style. Adam, one of the servers, quickly becomes a familiar presence, always bringing whatever I need before I even think to ask. Inside, two signs reading ‘disconnect to reconnect’ remind guests that the hotel encourages a digital detox. The idea extends to connectivity, with no Wi-Fi in shared spaces, only in the rooms. Bikes are also parked all around the property, easy to pick up when moving between different parts of the resort.
The afternoon shifts back into session. First up is Release and Realign with physiotherapist Nimra: assisted stretching, breathwork and slow adjustments designed to release tension and reset posture. At one point I start
to drift off and she smiles, explaining that it’s a sign the body is finally letting go. The difference is most noticeable across my shoulders and lower back. We move straight into a Gyrotonic session afterwards. The equipment looks almost sculptural, with pulleys and rotating handles guiding the movements into smooth, circular patterns rather than straight lines. It appears gentle at first, but quickly demands focus and control, drawing in smaller stabilising muscles that rarely get much attention in more conventional workouts. After that, I take some time to wander through the spa, which is seriously well-equipped: hydrotherapy pools, sauna, steam room, a Himalayan salt room, experiential showers and an Arctic cave.
On my final day, I sit down for a TAIM consultation, one of the sessions I end up finding most revealing. Rooted in the teachings of Ibn Sina, it focusses on balance, using the traditional framework of the four elements (earth, water, air and fire) to understand how energy, digestion and sleep shift from day to day. The session unfolds more like a conversation than an assessment. We talk through sleep, digestion, stress and daily routines, while the practitioner quietly observes posture, breathing, skin, pulse and small physical cues I wouldn’t think to mention. Gradually, patterns begin to emerge and the discussion turns to gentle adjustments: foods that cool or warm, movement that steadies or energises, guidance around environment and climate, along with sleep and mental rest, all designed to fit into everyday life.
Before leaving, I squeeze in one last reset, which I’ll be featuring in an upcoming issue: a 111SKIN facial that brings my skin straight back to life, followed by a Qatari Hamiz massage combining deep-tissue work and hot stones. A fitting end to a stay built around slowing down, easy routines and picking up a few habits I’ll definitely want to keep. ✤
GO: CALL 4477 6500 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.
fact journeyed to Budapest to experience how a historic landmark on Erzsébet Boulevard pairs old-world splendour with Anantara’s contemporary finesse.
Budapest opened our visit with a sense of motion everywhere — trams gliding past, cafés spilling onto pavements, the whole city seemingly mid-scene. Pest’s sunlit boulevards and ornate façades created a first impression that felt both cinematic and unfiltered. We arrived ready for discovery, and it became clear that this city, layered with history and bursting with character, had every intention of leaving a lasting impression.
At the centre of this lively backdrop stood the Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel, a property whose Belle Époque majesty rises above the city’s movement with authority. Originally crafted in 1894 as the European headquarters of the New York Life Insurance Company, the palace brings together Italian Renaissance curves, Baroque drama, Gothic flourishes and Art Nouveau imagination in a single silhouette. Its meticulous restoration has allowed these details not only to endure, but to shine — a reminder that some buildings don’t merely survive history; they keep its stories alive.
Stepping into the hotel felt like entering a quieter world resting just beyond the city’s cheerful bustle. The Poet Bar set the mood immediately — its soft lighting, oak accents and nostalgic atmosphere offering a gentle contrast to the lively streets outside. With a
welcome drink in hand and the faint echo of old literary conversations in the air, we felt an immediate shift: Budapest’s energy remained at the door, but here, it softened into something more intimate.
Check-in unfolded with the kind of ease that reminds you luxury is as much about people as marble floors and chandeliers. The team struck that balance between warmth and refinement, turning formalities into a pleasant pause before the experience began.
Lunch in The Atrium continued the introduction beautifully. Beneath soaring columns and a canopy of light, Hungarian flavours appeared with elegant confidence that reflected the warmth and intention behind our invitation. Our rooms continued this blend of heritage and comfort. Chocolate-toned textiles and soft-edged furnishings created an inviting calm, while Italian design touches and marble bathrooms added a modern note of indulgence. It was a space made for relaxing into the rhythm of the city — even if that rhythm encouraged a spontaneous nap. The afternoon brought a shift from exploration to rejuvenation. Anantara’s Signature Massage, shaped by warm oils and flowing technique, offered an experience that balanced relaxation with renewal. Any remaining travel tension melted away with precision.
As evening approached, the White Salon awaited — a dining venue that bridges Budapest’s culinary traditions with refined modern interpretation. Inspired by classic European brasseries, the menu highlighted Hungarian ingredients through thoughtful techniques and contemporary presentation. Every course felt like a conversation with the city itself, shared one flavour at a time.
““Stepping into the hotel felt like entering a quieter world resting just beyond the city’s cheerful bustle.”
Though the hotel was the focal point of our stay, Budapest was determined to play its part — and it did so with the enthusiasm of a city that knows it has plenty to show off. Our guided tour revealed a landscape rich with contrasts: grand architecture standing shoulder to shoulder with corner cafés and bustling markets that made our attempts at “just browsing” rather optimistic. With experts who knew the city with both affection and authority, we explored Budapest not as spectators, but as willing participants flowing with the city’s vibrant pulse.
Breakfast the next morning at the Deepwater Room added a layer to the city’s famed coffeehouse tradition. Beneath gilded stucco and terrazzo columns, pastries arrived still warm, eggs were cooked with precision and the French toast had a knack for making even the most disciplined among us reconsider portion control. It was easy to understand why generations before us treated such cafés as their unofficial offices — inspiration comes easily when the surroundings look this good.
The mixology experience later that day brought a playful change of pace. Under expert guidance, we delved into the origins of classic mixed drinks before attempting to shake, stir and garnish our own. Let’s just say some of our creations were more confident in appearance than in flavour, but the live gypsy music drifting through the lobby ensured that even our most experimental blends were met with generous enthusiasm.
What stayed with us throughout the trip was the palace’s ability to offer something new each time we returned. Whether it was the sophistication of the wellness area, the glimmer of Murano chandeliers or the serenity of the relaxation pool, every corner revealed a thoughtful detail. Spice Spoons, the hotel’s culinary immersion, offered another highlight. With a glass of sparkling in hand, we learned to prepare traditional Lángos and sample local dips under the guidance of chefs. It was warm, genuine and flavourful — a reminder that some of the best cultural exchanges happen over shared food.
Our final morning brought a Signature Sunrise Breakfast on the White Salon balcony. Bathed in soft light, accompanied by fresh pastries and exquisite service, it felt like a curtain call on a visit we wished could last a little longer.
As we prepared to leave Budapest, we realised the city had woven itself into our memories with a blend of cultural richness and charm. The Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel didn’t just enhance that experience — it anchored it. With its heritage, hospitality and heart, it reminded us that some stays do more than impress, they become a part of who you are.
Our heartfelt thanks to the entire Anantara New York Palace Budapest team, whose expertise, professionalism and kindness shaped every moment of our unforgettable stay. ✤
GO: VISIT ANANTARA.COM/EN/NEW-YORK-PALACEBUDAPEST FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.
fact brings you the latest must-haves from the beauty and grooming world… from skincare to scents and make-up.
Intuitia Body Cream
Part of the limited-edition Intuitia collection, this luxurious whipped body cream is enriched with Vitamin E beads, Q10, cold-pressed rosehip oil and shea butter to deliver deep nourishment and lasting hydration. Infused with saffron, sandalwood and vanilla, it leaves skin velvety soft and radiant, while its grounding fragrance encourages mindful self-reflection.
Eyedeology 3-in-1 Shadow Liner
Asteri’s latest innovation, Eyedeology, works as a kohl, a liner or an eyeshadow in one twistup pencil. With a balanced wax blend, its creamy formula ensures glide-on application, while zeolite controls oil for long-lasting wear and dimethicone leaves a smooth, protective finish. Available in four intense full matte shades (Grape, Mint, Jasmine and Coal), it’s vegan, microplastic-free and designed for desert-proof performance.
La Bomba
A bold, fruity-floral fragrance crafted by master perfumers, this high-impact scent opens with exotic pitaya, followed by cherry peony and frangipani and settling into a warm, solar vanilla base. Made with 86% natural-origin ingredients, it comes housed in a spectacular jewel-like butterfly bottle.
This targeted formula helps strengthen, tighten and lift the sensitive, wrinkle-prone skin around the neck and jawline. Hyaluronic acid delivers lasting hydration, peptides support collagen production, while vitamin E and niacinamide repair damaged skin and improve texture. Unscented and non-greasy, it leaves a smooth, matte finish suitable for all skin types.
Salam Shower Gel
This fruity shower gel, from Lush’s 2026 Eid collection, captures the nostalgic scent of blackcurrant, inspired by a cherished drink enjoyed when breaking fast. Fresh raspberry, grape and blackcurrant juices create a bright, energising lather, while glycerine locks in moisture and witch hazel tones, leaving skin feeling refreshed.
Swedish fashion retailer H&M has released up-to-the-minute collections for both men and women, featuring stylish basics, classic cuts and coastal influences for a distinctly spring vibe.
The women’s line from H&M Studio Essentials reimagines wardrobe staples through an unconventional lens: architectural tailoring, statement leather jackets, knitwear with offbeat twists, cropped boxy shirts and refined iterations of the ‘perfect tee’ form the backbone of the range.
Created by the same in-house design team behind H&M Studio, this season’s Essentials draws on 1990s' minimalism and blends it with subtle athletic references. Highlights include a doublebreasted wool blazer with stitched creases on wide sleeves and raw-edged seams, and a shrunken cashmere cardigan featuring a double placket and an additional shoulder layer.
A piqué-inspired top appears in a sheer silk blend with a long row of mother-of-pearl buttons, while a transparent knitted pointelle top and skirt set plays with fluted hems and rolled edges. Spring’s freshness comes through in crisp cotton, washed canvas and silk jerseys, expressed in tonal whites with soft pops of faded yellow and powder pink that blend seamlessly into a refined greige palette.
For men, H&M Atelier SS26 Collection is shaped by coastal lifestyles embracing the rhythm of longer days, where simple, essential shapes meet fluid construction and a palette softened by summer light.
The collection reads like a well-curated travel edit: pocketfront shirts, Henley tees and sleeveless knits act as foundations, layered beneath relaxed blazers and airy windbreakers. Cargo trousers, Bermuda shorts cut below the knee and pleated pants that pool at the ankle define the season's elongated, laid-back silhouette. Fits are generously proportioned, with untucked shirttails emerging from beneath technical outerwear and knitwear achieving an artful ease through relaxed proportions and considered layering.
Softness is found in rustic and tactile yarns, cottons and suede, alongside the pragmatism of technical fabrics. Each piece carries a lived-in character, enhanced by a sun-bleached colour palette drawn from Provence – dusty earth tones, faded mint and washed denim that looks cool and comfortable. ✤
A selection of the new movies and TV releases you won't want to miss this month.
Director: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller, Milana Vayntrub
Adapted from Andy Weir’s bestselling novel, Project Hail Mary follows Ryland Grace, a scientist who wakes up alone aboard a spacecraft with no memory of his mission, except that humanity’s survival depends on him. As fragments of his past return, he faces a cosmic threat and an unexpected interstellar alliance. Blending high-concept science, humour and emotional stakes, the film positions itself as a smart, characterdriven blockbuster, anchored by Ryan Gosling’s performance and a story that celebrates curiosity, resilience and the power of collaboration in the face of extinction.
Director: Daniel Chong
Cast (voices): Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm
Pixar’s Hoppers delivers a playful ecoadventure built on a striking premise: a young animal lover transfers her consciousness into a robotic beaver to communicate with wildlife and protect a threatened ecosystem. Mixing comedy, action and environmental themes, the film explores how technology might reconnect humans with nature rather than separate them from it. With its colourful world and emotional core, Hoppers aims for that familiar Pixar balance: entertainment for families paired with a thoughtful message about coexistence, empathy and the fragile bonds linking people, animals and the planet they share.
Director: Kevin Williamson
Cast: Matthew Lillard, Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox
The iconic slasher franchise returns with Scream 7 , bringing Sidney Prescott back into the crosshairs of Ghostface. Now living a quieter life, she’s forced to confront her past when a new wave of attacks threatens her family and reignites old traumas. Blending legacy characters with a younger generation, the film leans into the series’ trademark meta-horror tone: self-aware, suspenseful and brutally entertaining.
Director: Tom Harper
Cast: Cillian Murphy
Written and created by Steven Knight, Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man continues the acclaimed saga, with Cillian Murphy returning as Tommy Shelby. Set during the Second World War, the film finds Shelby navigating a Britain reshaped by conflict and shifting power. As old loyalties resurface and new threats emerge, the story explores the weight of his past and the legacy he refuses to relinquish.
Creators: Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert, Ben Nedivi
Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Wrenn Schmidt, Krys Marshall
Returning on March 27, Season 5 of For All Mankind continues Apple TV+’s alternate-history space drama. As humanity pushes further beyond Earth, space exploration becomes increasingly entangled with political and economic ambition, raising fresh tensions as rival powers compete to shape the future off-world.
Some great new sounds for you to check out this month.
By Harry Styles
Four years after Harry’s House, Harry Styles is stepping back into the spotlight with Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally., a 12-track album shaped alongside longtime collaborator Kid Harpoon. Recorded between 2024 and 2025, the project signals a new phase: polished pop, rhythmic energy and the kind of effortless charisma that has defined his solo era. Lead single Aperture, released in January, set the tone for the rollout, which unfolded through cryptic teasers and carefully staged live appearances.
By by Charlie Puth
Charlie Puth leans further into precision pop with Whatever’s Clever!, his fourth studio album, arriving in March via Atlantic. Built across 12 tracks and co-produced with BloodPop, the record pairs meticulous production with a more personal edge, threading vulnerability through its glossy sound. Collaborations with Kenny G, Ravyn Lenae and Hikaru Utada add texture, while early singles Changes and Beat Yourself Up hint at a project that’s emotionally direct without losing its radio instincts.
By BTS
BTS are officially entering their comeback era with Arirang, a new studio album set for release on March 20, their first full group project since completing mandatory military service. The record, developed throughout 2025, signals a major reset for the group and anchors a global rollout that includes a world tour and a large-scale comeback performance in Seoul streamed worldwide. Named after the iconic Korean folk song, Arirang positions BTS at the intersection of cultural identity and global pop power as they step into their next chapter.
That’s What Friends Are For
By Wade Rouse
That’s What Friends Are For channels the warmth and wit of The Golden Girls into a contemporary story about friendship, reinvention and the unexpected turns life can take later on. The novel follows a group of women who, brought together by circumstance, form a bond that helps them confront personal setbacks, embrace new beginnings and redefine who they are beyond the roles they once occupied.
FANTASY
This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me
By Ilona Andrews
This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me delivers the kind of high-stakes fantasy the author is known for: a politically volatile realm, razor-sharp power plays and a heroine who refuses to be outmanoeuvred. Set within a kingdom where loyalty shifts as quickly as influence, the novel follows a woman forced to navigate court intrigue, rival factions and mounting threats that could reshape the balance of power.
There was some stiff competition at the recent Winter Olympics in Italy, none more so than among the women’s crosscountry skiers, who found themselves up against a ‘rival’ with a distinct advantage.
Team Australia and Team Croatia were joined in the closing stages of their heat by an escaped dog, who not only kept up with the skiers but actually managed to trigger the finish-line camera.
The intruder gave a quick nod to the cameras before joining his fellow ‘athletes’ at the post-finish area where
he was swiftly identified as escaped pet, Nazgul, a Czechoslovakian wolfdog who, apparently, wasn’t happy at being left home alone and decided to find himself some human companions.
One of the skiers was quoted saying: "It's not that big a deal, because I'm not fighting for medals or anything big. But if that happened in the finals, it could really cost someone the medals or a really good result."
We beg to differ. What could be better than being chased by a full-grown wolfalike to improve your timings?
We’ve heard that in the frozen north, people leave their car doors unlocked in case passersby encounter polar bears and need to escape – seems reasonable to us, though we do wonder if it’s not just an invitation for opportunist thievery.
But it seems the ace predators are not all you have to watch out for in Canada.
News site upi.com reports that an Ontario man was forced to jump into a stranger’s car, while she was in it, to get away from a pair of marauding turkeys!
Michael Bourgon told reporters he was simply walking along, minding his own
business, when the birds started following and then getting aggressive towards him. He tried to flee and kicked snow at the turkeys, to no avail, before jumping into a stranger’s car until the irate birds backed off. In true modern-day fashion, the incident was, of course, caught on video by a passerby and has since gone viral. We have to sympathise with Michael who said of his rescuer: "She's some random lady in the car. I look like the Unabomber… honestly, I just want to get away from these turkeys.... I was not in the mood for turkey business!" Quite.
In what seems like an act of utter madness, a rare Pokémon card, owned by Internet celebrity Logan Paul, has been sold for more than USD16 million.
The Pikachu Illustrator card was one of only 39 produced as prizes for a 1998 contest and is the only one to be graded a 10 by Professional Sports Authenticator.
The influencer turned WWE wrestler made history when he bought the card for USD5,275,000 in 2021 – making it the
then most expensive card ever – now just five short years later, he’s laughing all the way to the bank with a USD10 million profit.
The card was reportedly bought by AJ Scaramucci, of Solari Capital, who views it as an investment in light of a surge in the trading card market in recent years.
Does that mean it could be worth even more in another few years? Ever get the feeling some people live in a parallel universe?
A giant waterslide and adventure park. More pools than days of the week. And restaurants from all over the world. With villas, rooms and suites made of dreams and where dreams are made. All on kilometres of private and pristine beaches. Welcome to an out of this world oasis on Qatar’s sunset coast. Book your escape at hilton.com/salwabeach