A Surprise From Strangers

Every Eid, people in Qatar do different things to celebrate. But there are many things that everyone does, and that are considered cultural traditions, which get people together and strongly connect them in those very few days every year. On Eid El-Fitr, for example, people celebrate that Ramadan is over, and from then on everyone can eat and drink, and fasting is not required during the day anymore. On the first day, fathers and sons wake up with the sunrise to go to the Eid prayer. After that people finish praying at the big mosques, they greet each other at the door and go home to celebrate the Eid with their friends and family. People usually have lunch at restaurants during the Eid days, and then in the afternoon they start going out and visit relatives and friends. During those shorts visits, “maamool” –an Arabic date cake– is served with tea or traditional Qatari coffee. Those are centuries-old traditions that have been followed ever since then till today.

Well, for me, Eid days are never so exciting; it is always the same thing over and over again. And I am a kind of person who loves trying out new things all the time, and hates routine. Thank God, this Eid something new happened. We just moved a few months ago to this new house. To us, this is a totally new neighborhood, with people we don’t know, mostly Qataris. On the first day of Eid, the bell rang, and I ran out to check who was at the door. When I opened the door, a lady –who was probably an Indonesian housemaid– handed me a covered plate that smelled so nice and sweet. She told me that she is the maid of the house that is next to ours, and that the sweets are a traditional gift from the Qatari family, who own the house.

I found this very nice and generous, and it made my Eid a different one. Finally something surprising happened; we got a traditional present from strangers, who until today we have not met! L.N.

Throw Your Worries As You Walk

Dahl Al Hamam Family Park is located in Madinat Khalifa North. The Park got its name from the Dahl that is located inside the park, which represents an archaeological symbol in the region. It is a wide green area that includes giant shaded playgrounds for children, a football playground that is covered in palm trees, two basketball playgrounds, and other entertainment areas and services available at the park.

The beauty of green, the wide open place, the smell of grass, and the time we chose to visit Dahl Al Hamam, all played a factor in drawing a smile on our faces that day. It was sunny since it was four in the afternoon; however, some cool breezes were able to make the weather become nicer. The place was so quiet, no visitors were there expect the two of us, my friend and I, beside the cleaners. We talked as we were walking through its extensive sidewalks and crossing its bridges. We took the opportunity of this serenity and expressed our wistful feelings. By the end of our visit that didn't extend half an hour, the calm atmosphere around us and the birds' sounds were able to transfer our moods and feeling to ones that are more joyful.

N.A

Skiing in the Desert

It’s the wild ride that everyone enjoys going on, an eventful trip to the inland sea, as you enjoy the treasure of the desert. You experience skiing on snow, but it’s a bit different in that the snow is simply beige and the weather is much drier and warmer. The dunes are wavy and softly ironed, and the vibrant rays of the splendid sun illume the golden land of the desert and glitters it with tiny sequins. The scene looks very alluring, even though the place looks solemn and desolated; as if you’re in no man’s land, it still is very rich in its hazel colors. Getting behind the wheels and diving in the sand dunes was delirious, as we splashed sand around and left behind our tracks.

As soon as we arrived at the site, the tents were set up traditionally; they were vivid red and geometric patterns. The sun was setting and was painting the sky with its bright colors. The chilly waves from the faraway land stroked us wildly, as we walked along the wavy seashore. We climbed up the soft sand hills and kept on sliding downhill until we lost our balance or nearly crashed into the tents. But surfing fever was interrupted by the fresh delicious smell of the BBQ-grills teasing our nostrils. I felt thrilled. It was a wild experience. An extraordinary activity that broke my daily routine, as it definitely refreshed me with the fresh breezes of the desert. (N.S)

"The Traditions of Qatar” is bridging Life to Triumph

"The Traditions of Qatar" is an event that held by Qatar's Guest Center, as a part of Sheikh Eid Bin Muhammad Al-Thani Charitable Association. Out of keenness on the call to God as a religious obligation towards non-Muslims, especially whom coming to Qatar, the idea festablishing a center is being initiated. Three months ago, I was volunteered for 20 hours. This event was part of the main journey of consolidation of the Islamic faith in the soul and rooting them rightly within people. The traditional aspects wee being offered to show the Qatari Islamic culture and how the past activities are the roots of the advanced development in Qatar. The event is leaving people to remember that with the commitment of the Islamic traditions within the past and the knowledge of today, there will be a bright future waiting for Qatar.

In this remarkable event, I had been delegated to prepare the presentation that provides some traditional Islamic aspects to represent the culture of Qatar. The preparation stage played a vital role in developing my team working skills, enhancing creativity and managing organizational events. I was responsible for arragement of food and other hospitality aspects under the traditional way of styling. Additionally, I was the main presenter of the event. Holding such position has tought me how to guid and face audience for moving toward success. It opens the past's door for you to see the marvelous scene of the heritage of Qatar.

Their sincere thanks along with my family's support are implemented great motivations within me for accomplishing more. My engagement within such significant experience enhanced my leadership and management skills. More precisely, I have been familiarized with good communicational skills in dealing with different people for social and religious manners. My great thanks with best regards toward Qatar's Guest Center for giving me such valuable opportunity to express my abilities and collaborate effectively with them in order to achieve their goals.

GarnGaao, Now and Then.

GarnGaao is an old traditional celebration that Qataries still hold on to very dearly. It is celebrated annually on the 14^th night of Ramadan. It is aimed primarily for children, but adults join in as well. The children go out to the streets, walking from house to house to get candy from the neighbors. Each house has a huge bowl full of nuts and candy. GarnGaao is very similar to Halloween, but instead of the scary theme and costumes, we have a traditional theme and wear traditional clothes.

This fun tradition has not been forgotten. Actually, people have elaborated this celebration and took it to new levels. They compete on who would prepare the most extravagant event. The huge bowl of candy is gone and is replaced with thousands of Riyals worth candy arrangements. The traditional clothes are not so traditional either. Yes, we wear the “jalabya” but instead of the traditional long simple dress, the modern jalabya came along, be it short or with trousers or jeans. Nothing stays the same for a long time. While it is true that Garangaao changed from what it was before, it is still the one tradition we hold on to.

Fun fact: did you know that only Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait celebrate Karankaao. Oman celebrates it but they have a different naming for it. They call it “Kanrkshooh”.(HZ)

Atoona Allah Ya'ateekum

It’s a night children have been waiting for all year, a night which Gulf countries rejoice in the second half of the month of Ramadan. Where residents starts preparing the processing of nuts and candy.

In this evening, children dress in their Traditional cloths, walk out of their homes and walk around the neighborhoods knocking on each door. Carrying different cotton bags filled with decorative characteristic cartoons and traditional design, hanging loosely from their necks, ready to receive goodies, sweets and different variety of nuts. Walking around the neighborhoods at nighttime singing the special Garangao song.

Garangao is a very unique evening that’s held on the 14^th of Ramadan every year. My family and I gather together in my grandmother’s house. All of my Family members sitting together celebrating, chatting together, while my little cousins eating the candies they received from other houses singing Garangao song. Dressed in customary women cloths. This unforgettable time is very exceptional in every Qatari house.

(Ahood)

Deep Blue World

Diving was an activity and custom that played a vital and significant role in our history. In fact, Pearl Diving was essentially a traditional activity that used to be one of the few sources of gaining income in the Arabian Gulf region, specifically before the discovery of oil. Hence, It is an aspect that we cherish until today and it reminds us of how the previous generations used to live. However, nowadays diving is commonly for leisure.

My personal experience with diving primarily began around four years ago. It is an activity that significantly enables me to feel liberated, in a place that lacks all boundaries and limitations. It is a different world that allows me to go through unpredicted journeys and new experiences each time. The peaceful ambiance enlivens and releases me from any complexities. It strengthens and enables me to realize the beauty of the environment. In fact, whenever I am feeling tense or pressured, diving allows me to forget and put everything behind.
(J. AT)

Rooh yal Majrooh

Al-Bandar is a port on the corniche, where a lot of people go to hang out with their friends. There would always be Jet Ski’s and jet boats passing by and playing around in that area. Also, there are always a lot of cars parked and people sitting on top of their car or next to it just chilling and to get some fresh clean air from next to the sea.

It is a beautiful place to hang out in, you would see Doha’s little Manhattan in front of you, and you would also see the great Islamic Museum. The place looks more beautiful when the sun is down, because the lighting starts to bring the color out of the city, where when it is daylight its very dusty and everything seems to be brown. I would always here the sounds of people talking and laughing in the background, also there would always be a car passing with very high music which gets everybody in a joyful mood.

Everyone around me is very energetic; there are families, and groups of friends. Some people are even playing play station in the trunk of their car, I could here them screaming and laughing and throwing bets on who is going to win.

Personally I feel free in Al-Bandar, it’s a place where everybody could feel free and do whatever they wanted to without anybody judging or staring. I would rather hang out here with my friends and drink Karak, than go to a mall.

What is unexpected about this place is that everybody greets everybody as they are passing by, nothing you would find outside of this port. Moreover, I think that this place is very international, you see people from all races, age groups and economic levels.

(Mariam)

She Sets Me Free

Wide open spaces. The feeling of freedom, of not feeling boxed in by buildings and traffic jams. The Bilal family farm has been in our family for generations, as a child we came with our parents to escape the noise and pollution of Doha life. Its sanctuary to revive our spirits and to take in nature and leave cell phones at home. On top of the horse I feel the cool breeze whistle by and a feeling of excitement and exhilaration. I am away from the pressures of the University and my mind is free.

My horse, AlZafrana, is the fastest horse in Doha. A beautiful black creature with friendly eyes but dangerous moods. As I pulled myself up to ride her, my heart beats faster with fear. I try to become one with her and tune into her emotions. As we accelerate my breathing slows as we move together and enjoy escaping into the distance. We gallop faster as the sights of leafy trees, fluffy sheep, a haze of brown and green zoom pass my eyes. Time stands still, the rush of everyday life falls and I feel at peace.

The Doha Tribeca Film Festival

This annual event showcases the wonderful talent of film makers around the world. The main reason of putting up the festival is to allow films to help nourish the young minds as well as to spread awareness among adults as to how things change in our lives. There are thirty five movies chosen to be a part of the exhibition of talents. Each movie tackles issues that affect Arab culture and traditions. This festival helps people, especially the new generation to realize the values in all aspects of life. Actor Robert De Niro is one of those who supported the festival and paid a visit to our humble country for the said event. Last year’s gathering was star studded as they jetted their way here. The people behind every movie are those who aspire to become greater. During the film preparations, people were given a chance to glance on how people get affected by new cultures and at the same time advising us to hold on to what our ancestors have been teaching us. I personally went to watch all thirty five movies that were shown, but unfortunately this limited amount of time was not enough for me. I believe that in order to understand, I need to put myself in the situation of the character that existed way back in time. The cultural upbringings will never be that easy. The influences are scattered around and have been absorbed by our local people. I hope we all can do something about it. In one way or another I can see and believe that festivals like these gives our country, and ourselves a reason to be proud of.
A.A

Good for shopping, bad for hanging

I love Landmark. For me, it’s the place TO GO for shopping here in Qatar. It has a variety of clothing stores, electronics and make-up. They even recently opened MAC, where before I had to go to villaggio or city center to buy something from MAC. Plus it’s the closest mall to me since I live in Al-Dafna. Landmark is in between Al-Mrkhya and Duhail. Although l love Landmark so much, there is this feeling that discourages me from going. But I go anyway, because I know I will find what I’m looking for.

The moment I get there and get out my car, I regret the deciding to come. It’s always so crowded, inside and out!! Guys keep circling around the mall with their cars. We call them "eagles". They’re there after they get their “Karak” from the gas station. To exit, they have to go through Landmark parking lot. They circle around landmark look for a dead body to eat. They are just guys with no purpose and nothing to do all day long. Whenever you go, at any time of the day or any day of the week, they are there.

If you go during a weekday the crowd is not that bad. Try to get there during the weekends- it’s a nightmare. It’s so uncomfortable to go for shopping there during the weekend. You can see from people’s faces that they’re not there for shopping. They’re so calm and relaxed as if they have no worry in life. They just walking around looking at people, they’re not even looking at stores or window displays. Which really makes me feel like I’m out of my place, like I’m the one at fault. Am I the only one trying to shop in this shopping mall?! It’s just a wearying feeling when you’re trying to do something and people are looking at you. (HZ)

Girls Cruising Experience

Sitting alone and having not much to do, I decide to call my friend Maryam; I tell her that I am bored and she agrees. I ask her "What should we do?" and she replies "Let's go cruising". She picks me up from my home in her father's car, a Toyota Land Cruiser, as her Porsche Cayenne is still in the garage. At the beginning, we think that the Land Cruiser is kind of big for the two of us, but we later think that it is going to be a unique and interesting experience.

As usual, I always forget to wear the seat belt, the seat belt alarm never stops, and Maryam goes crazy about that. "Oppps, I forget to wear it this time too" I say, and we both laugh. To get into a passionate and jovial mood, I turn Bahrain FM on; and listen to "sarhana" by the Qatari singer Bader Al-Rayes. While cruising in Doha, people usually like to enjoy the very special drink "karak" (an Indian drink; tea with milk), that became strongly associated with cruising, and that’s what we do. We get our karak from Al-Naimi Cafeteria branch that is next to Landmark. We enjoy drinking karak and its sweet taste, but what's really weird about that is whenever Maryam and I drink it, we get into hysterics!

We start our cruise from Landmark, enjoying the chilly air coming from the air conditioner, the sugary taste of karak, and listening to the latest songs. Soon after, we notice some people staring at us, especially guys, they are little bit surprised to see girls in a Land Cruiser, as it is mostly known as a family or guys' car here in Doha. Some of them even smile and turn on their headlights for us, as a sign of liking, or start to follow us! Which becomes very annoying, and thus we decide to go cruising somewhere else. West Bay is the place, and finally we are in peace again!

N.A

Giant Ice-Cube

That Friday afternoon we could only find a parking space outside the mall, so we had to sweat running inside away from the severely hot sun. As we got in the mall, I made my way to the ice-skating rink. The freezing gust of wind struck me as I approached the isolated, solid block of ice. As the extremely cool air entered my lungs, it clarified my mind from all the worries. The pure beauty of the clear, white ice enlivened me. Excitement was tingling in me when I saw the graceful moves of the youngster ice-skaters, slipping fluidly on the shiny block of ice. The smell of the giant ice cube reminded me of the smell of the little ice-cubes I have at home in the freezes, which we use in fresh juices on the hot sunny summer days of Doha, like today!

I started walking closer and closer to the rink, attracted by the pleasant music the skating-shoes’ blades created scratching the ice. As I first set foot on the giant ice cube, everything seemed like a far blur for an instant. The feeling of having my whole weight on unstable feet, the excitement of trying out something new, the fear of slipping at any moment, and the strong desire of learning that perfection the youngsters performed, were all the mixed feelings I had at that moment. I had woken up to the unrealized freezing cold when my nose went numb. The actions of surrounding crowd of people took my attention away. Mothers with wide-open eyes stood next to the borders of the ice-rink worried about their children, who kept on slipping and banging the giant ice cube every five minutes. Fathers sat relaxed, or were close to the ice encouraging their kids to stand up, stay strong and move on. I then continued gazing at the young boys moving with such elegance on the cold dancing floor, but soon I was distracted by a breathtaking youngster, who passed two inches away from my nose, at lightning speed in great poise. L.N.

Endless Sea

We are in the middle of the sea. After pedaling for so long, we are too tired to go around trying to figure out where we are. We lay back and watch the horizon. It is an amazing view--huge beach houses on one side and on the other is an open ocean, and in a spot very far away we can see Qatar’s mini Manhattan. It is very relaxing to our eyes.

My friend and I can’t stop laughing in the beginning; we are all alone, late at night sitting in a canoe and too tired to go find our way back. But then, when we start noticing our surroundings both of us just gaze away. A jet ski passes by which ruins our moment and makes huge waves as he was passes, we think we are going to flip for a second. The canoe stops moving so we just gaze away again; I watch blurry lights everywhere, due to my weak eyesight. Maha, my friend always talks about her emotions and how she feels about the place.

Calm waters, and only a small hiss of wind. It felt comforting being in a huge open space all alone. It is so quiet I can hear Maha thinking.

Being on a canoe late at night is something I have never done before. It is very relaxing and you can go back and think about everything when you are all alone on the dark sea.

Prospects for Present Reveal The Past

"Souq Waqif" Hotal is a treasure spot that reflects an allegory for connecting the purity of the past with the luxury of the present. The remarkable elements of the past are flowing within my hands and cuddling with my eyes. It clearly and perfectly portrays the beauty of ancient architecture in Qatar, with the use of elements of heritage in the designs, especially the inscriptions within the handmade marbles. It is a mystery of fascinating interaction between traditional designs and the great intelligence of the latest interior designs for five stars hotels. Even its location is excellent. It's located in the heart of Doha which considered as one of the absolute beautiful heritage areas.

The hotel's balconies are overlooking the future to reveal it to me, where the horizons are exposing the wonderful scenery of the Corniche, which is designed in parallel with the age of modern architecture that maintains the fragrance of the place. Other balconies are showing the area of the towers that obviously paints a picture of the future and reflects the degree of civilization and urbanization.

History is warmly welcoming me once I step on the modernized ancient antiquarian land. In a harmonious and consistent way, "Souq Waqif" Hotel rolled all the aspects of time within one spot that gave it an ideal model of the continuous of human creativity from ages ago to the coming times.

Family Reunion

Al Bilal family tradition: weekly family get together at our WestBay lagoon beach house. At least twenty family members from one to seventy years old came together to share joys, problems and news. The warm sun, the soothing sea, the sparkling glimpse of light reflected on the waves is the perfect setting for relaxing and enjoying our time together.
Ever since I was a young child, our family reunions have been warm, safe, happy times with wonderful memories. All generations together from the youngest to the oldest and a feeling of belonging. Everywhere there are joyful sounds, children splashing in the sea, the Jet Ski’s zooming past, the chatter of the adults, the music of the teenagers. It all blends together in one harmonious sound. The tall white beach house casts its shadow over the beach. Large rectangular windows let in rainbows of light and the cool flows sooth our sun burnt feet. Week after week the beach house provides a haven, cool spacious home to come together and we connect.

Glamours new shopping mall in Qatar

Villaggio's architectural finesse gives you and reflection of the idyllic city, Venice’.This shopping mall provides you fully understanding to live the Italian culture, beautiful cityscape, and uniqueness and rich musical and artistic cultural heritage. Transportation running right through the mall is the canal floating with Venation running boat (gandala), Right over is a beautiful bridge, cross over the river.”Beautiful and elegant” I said as a first impression about the surroundings of the place.I am really stunned by how the architectural atmosphere, and how they were influenced by the life in Venice, using buildings and narrowed street’s, fancy street lamp along the mall, the colored houses and balconies flaunt in a stunning way.

Sprawling over widely built-up area, giving a gorgeous atmosphere for customers, the illusion of blue skies on ceilings, its drawings that represent different times of the day, so one you can experience day, sunset, night and day. Plenty of Dining’s and coffee shops can be seen in the food court area, as much culture diversity from all different regions gathers jointly for joy. Entertainment facilities is also available for children, big wide ice rank, I Max cinema theatre and the carting racing cars inside the new extended area of the “Fun Fair”, with its innovative and fun-filled inflatable, obstacle courses, air bounce amusements, and amusement rides combine to provide the ultimate festival atmosphere.

In the Essence of the Arabian Doha

It lies right in the heart of Doha. It bursts with the traditional habits of simplicity. It is painted with the past images of the old generations’ lifestyle. It is "Shari’ Al-Kahraba" (Electricity Street). One of the most precious in Doha; this small, packed souq acts as a reservoir for the intrinsic traditions of Doha, as the street is framed with shops and outlet that serve as the souq’s spirit. What really captures your eyes is the fast and animated rhythm of the souq. There is barely a space to step your foot as everyone gallops to serve their customers, and the scene even gets more mesmerizing as it embraces the essence of the holy month of Ramadan.

When Ramadan knocks on the doors of Doha, the souq opens its doors for the fasting people. This place, like no other, assembles many outlets that fill the joyful atmosphere with the luscious smell of the baked qatayef- Ramadan’s favorable sweets- and the customary Ramadan's "Fawanees" (Lanterns) illuming the night sky of Doha. Throughout the holy month, and especially in the evenings, very long queues of people block the way on the pavement, as they anticipate the qatayef, and they pass by the shop’s neighbor to fuel themselves with some fresh, crunchy nuts and white sweet cheese for the stuffing of the qatayef. The souq spreads joy and blessing in the atmosphere as people get together under one roof. I just love going to there, as I have been going there since my childhood. There were no malls to amuse us then, nor cafes to hangout at, but there was the Electricity Street where you find all sorts of things.

However, in the present time, it’s agonizing to know that they’ve taken down half of it and they’ll soon take down the other half. The souq is very precious to me as it mirrors the nature of the country and reflects in its heart. I never forget the days when my mother used to bargain with the sellers over clothes, when we used to buy fresh pickles from Barradat Saida, and Humous and Phoul from Beirut Restaurant. All these moment. (N.S.)

A Place to Relax

As I approached the entrance leading to the beach house, it was an instant feeling of purity and tranquility. Everything surrounding me seemed somehow transparent and clear. The soothing sound of the waves combined with the gentle echoes of the wind. The refreshing scent of the salty water immediately made me feel like a new person. The first aspect that I noticed was the soft golden sand and the crystal clear ocean, which enhanced and reinforced the feeling of calmness. It is the same feeling that I acquire every time I come to Salwa beach and escape from the crowdedness and pressure of the city life.

Moreover, the subtlety and quietness of the atmosphere made it an ideal location for meditation. Most of my relatives are simply relaxing and resting on the warm sand and enjoying the cool breezy weather. I sat down near the shoreline and observed my young cousins building sand castles, while the others were riding their jet skis and having a pleasant time. I was able to smell the smoke coming from the barbecue gathering, at the other side of the beach. The daylight seemed to become gradually dimmer as it was time for sunset. Everyone seemed carefree and optimistic. It was the overall mood of serenity that reinforced the ambiance of this place. It is a territory that renews a person and releases any tension, when they are experiencing a difficult time.

Elegant Coffee shope

When I first set foot on this place I was a bit curious of what it has to offer. My brother use to visit the place and he even treat it as his retreat area whenever he felt tired. Now I understand why. As I enter the shop, I felt the lightness of the area. It’s wide open space serve as an invitation for guests to sit down and relax while sipping on their hot and tasty cup of coffee. In the middle area, they place the glass tables which are ideal for mealtime guests. The chairs are made of leather and metal, which are paired with the base of the table. By the right side were the comfy chairs in red and brown. Upholstered sofas are set with wooden tables which are like invitation to relax and chill. Some even doze off when seated in those nice sofas. On the left side near the bar is the smoking area, a small yet cozy area where people sustain their nicotine intake. The “black room” as they call it have it’s own T.V set and an air purifier which helps reduce the smell of tobacco. The bar area is located at the left side of the space. To which the barista press the freshly grind coffee which is the main attraction to caffeine addicts.
As I get familiar with the place, I also get to know the people behind every cup of coffee guests are enjoying. They are all smiles welcoming everyone who came in. They have friendly crew who are very attentive to the needs of the guests. Though tired, they always have the friendliest approach and gestures that helps them to gain customers. I even see them talk to guests like they are friends yet the service is maintained at it’s level. These dedicated workers serve as the work force of Café Plus. A café located at The Center mall. It’s location is actually not much noticeable unless you take a closer look of the area. Tucked away between Scholl Foot care Center and Jumbo Electronics, Café Plus is a quiet yet elegant hide away for those are craving for the best coffee and service in town. Having a variety of products, people have been coming back to this wonderful place. It’s not just a café, it’s a sweet escape within any one’s reach.
A.A