Love at First Sight | Nidaaya at Melia Doha

It has been a while since I have made the time to write anything because I have been working on this huge project – The Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition. An invitation from Nidaaya at Melia Doha to preview their Iftar menu was all I needed to get back to a little writing. It was also my first time stepping inside Melia Doha, and I have  to say it was a breath taking experience. The hotel is a stunner, a place so relaxing in the middle of the hustling West Bay Area.

Nidaaya is much more than a restaurant. My visit there left me with quite a memorable experience – the staff were really friendly, and welcoming. I felt like I had walked into a place where I was a regular, and that made quite a difference. I know I would be recommending Nidaaya quite a lot this season. Live cooking stations and an extensive menu combine the best of both local and international cuisine, making Nidaaya the perfect place for families and friends to share a special feast. Following the tradition of Ramadan, Nidaaya invites guests to enjoy Iftar together, with a specially designed menu aimed to excite all. Options include Mediterranean favourites such as Pasta Alfredo and local specialties such as Saffron Hammour. An additional vegetarian and special children’s menu will be provided. Nidaaya has created a menu that observes the rituals of Ramadan. To begin guests can break their fast at Nidaaya with a selection of digestifs and dates. Next, the restaurant provides an elaborate selection of local delicacies such as Hummus, Tabbouleh and Muhammara, whilst there is also a wide choice of salads including Greek, Potato and Caesar salad. For the main course, guests will delight at the options of Rosemary Strip Loin, Roasted Chicken or Rib-Eye Steak. Seafood lovers are welcomed with a wonderful selection of Garlic Seabass, Mussels Provencal and more. The meal is completed with a choice of satisfying desserts including Coconut Cake, Chocolate Brownie and Apple Pie. The experience at Nidaaya has left me with a memory of a lifetime, and I am definitely returning there again mainly, because of the hospitality I received while there. It was great! Can’t believe its time for Ramadan already. I love this month, the ambience , and everything about it. For more updates on how the food was hop onto http://www.chefdoha.wordpress.comi%5B/vc_row%5D

Heels

    A heel came off my shoe last night as I was walking around IKEA. It said nature on the inside.  And for the next few hours I couldn’t stop thinking about the other heel. It said nothing.  But I have a sharpie and now it says strength….

Oryx Rotana (Pintxos Night)

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]When I received my invitation from Oryx Rotana to try on the latest offer they had at one of the restaurants, The Cellar, I was nothing short of thrilled.

Because who expected an invitation coming along with a big jar of macarons? Well, but that’s what it was!

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”11172,11173,11175″ layout=”3″ gallery_style=”3″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]We were welcomed to The Cellar by the waitress Le Le who showed us to our seats and laid out our napkins for us. And, as soon as we were seated we were offered a drink of our choice. I chose to have Sprite which is my normal go-to soft drink![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”11176,11177″ layout=”3″ gallery_style=”1″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]The E-Commerce Manager at Rotana, Ahmad gave us his greetings, and made sure we were comfortable. Le le, then took us around the restaurant telling us more about the restaurant – the tapas for the night, and how each one was made all a cuisine that was a part of Northern and Southern Spain. It was definitely an informative, and yet truly enjoyable experience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”flexslider_style” layout=”3″ gallery_style=”1″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Qatar International Fashion Festival

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Hey folks! Have been really busy with lots of things happening around. I happened to attend the Qatar International Fashion Festival hosted by Designers Fashion Lounge on behalf of Rivaage.

The show was held at Al Majlis Ballroom at Sheraton Resort, Doha. As for the show it began fashionably late – a trademark to the unpunctuality at most fashion events around Qatar, However, the fact they ended it on time was a big plus.

There were big names from the Pakistani Fashion World – Asim Jofa as the opener, and Umar Sayeed who brought the curtains down for the show.

It was fun to see some of my fellow bloggers Chiara from Bonjour Chiara and Irina from Your Wardrobe Qatar on the ramp.

The runway display was fantastic. Every piece seemed like a must-have and no time was wasted once the show began.

Here’s more than just words from the event!

 

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”http://youtu.be/xnb_oMWF_94″%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row%5D%5Bvc_column width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”http://youtu.be/upmNmlLSkDI”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row%5D%5Bvc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”11160,11156,11158,11155,11163,11166,11167″ layout=”3″ gallery_style=”1″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”http://youtu.be/fZx_8C7FW5s”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D

The increasing popularity of rustic-chic interior design

Quite trendy during the last years, rustic chic has never been as in demand as it is now. From a villa in the country to a chic New York studio, rustic-chic is one of the most popular interior styles now. This trend has the ability to be easily…

Falling Jasmine | Carolina Herrera

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Been down with flu, and couldnt blog the past few days but, hey I had some great Experience at Carolina Herrera Last Wednesday. As always, am going to let the pictures do the speaking. The jewellery collection “Falling Jasmine” by Carolina Herrera had its global launch in Qatar. The collections were oh-so-delicate, and timeless. Really loved the entire collection. Getting a chance to even speak with the iconic designer was another memory altogether. She said these collections were inspired from the jasmines in her garden which were a favorite of her mother.

They even had jasmine themed canapes for the event which was pretty cool. Now off to the visual narration,

Until Next Time,

xox

Kay[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”11138,11139,11140,11141,11142,11143″ layout=”3″ gallery_style=”1″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

FASHIONABLE INTERIOR DESIGN FOR THE BEDROOM

Although many rooms of our homes at some point become spaces where friends and family can congregate, our bedrooms will always be our own private domain.   And as such, they are great places for us to try out some of our most outlandish interior…

That Book You Must Read | Watersmeet by Rachel Cotterill

I used to read a lot of books until almost third year of University, after which things became hectic for me. Been few years now, and this January I came across Shopaholic & Baby which got me into the reading wagon and here I am ready to review yet another interesting read – Rachel Cotterill’s Watersmeet. For those who love a little bit of contemporary settings that includes forts and baronies, this is an enjoyable and fictious must-read. The personas in the book were my favorite part. Cherish the character’s personality to the heart very much – The Lord of Watersmeet and the apprentice who joins him. Realization of the beauty of a person’s soul at close-hand makes the story all the more a must-read. Rumors that always tend to begin when someone tries to work hard, and be sharing which is very much relatable to today’s world have been captured very well in the story. If you want something light, and can keep you on your toes till the very end, then Watersmeet is a must-read on your chat list.

Have you read Watersmeet yet? If not you can get your copy here https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/501755

If you did, then do feel free to leave your review in comments.

Until Next Time,

xox

Kay

Memory of a Life Time | Qatar’s First Food Bloggers Meet

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]The much anticipated first ever food bloggers meet in Qatar was everything memorable, and all good things you can think of. Four Seasons and the ever lovely Hungry Birds Doha made it into a Truly memorable event by being gracious hosts.
Always, having gone to more fashion events than food, I had a realization point that people who got together for food was like family and very friendly and warm. Truly, waiting for the next event, here I am penning down the highlights of my most memorable day in February.

Chef Marco Arlotti prepared for a most unforgettable dining experience with the best of Italian Cuisine. For those who would like to know more about him, here’s a bit of info.

Chef Marco brings more than 14 years of international luxury hospitality experience to Doha.  Arlotti joins Four Seasons Hotel Doha most recently from Four Seasons Hotel Milano, where he served as Sous Chef, overseeing two of the Hotel’s signature restaurants – La Veranda and Il Foyer, as well as culinary operations for banquets and room service.  During his six-year tenure at Four Seasons Hotel Milano, he was mentored by Italy’s acclaimed Chef Sergio Mei and had the opportunity to further advance his culinary skills and technique under Chef Sergio’s direction.  Together with Chef Sergio, Chef Marco had the opportunity to teach Italian cuisine at the prestigious culinary school Le Notre in Paris.  Prior to Milan, Chef Marco perfected his culinary skills working in acclaimed restaurants throughout Europe, such as Michelin Star Joël Robuchon in Paris as chef de partie.

Chef Arlotti’s dishes are truly a must-try, and better later than never, you might as well hurry to Il Teatro.

Let’s stop away with my chatter and show you what our seats welcomed us to.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”11094″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_self”][divider line_type=”Small Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]And then there were these most amazing and soft breads just the perfect warm to the senses.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”11095″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_self”][divider line_type=”Small Line” custom_height=”20″][vc_column_text]The dinner began with the most crunchy and delicious soft crab. The little bite of food to amuse the mouth and invigorate the palate was just perfect.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”Small Line” custom_height=”20″][image_with_animation image_url=”11104″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_self”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][divider line_type=”Small Line” custom_height=”20″][vc_column_text]Then came our main course in a manner befitting the royalty. The experience was truly one to cherish for a long time. Seared Scallops, Lasagne and Spring Chicken for Main Course. My favorite was definitely the Lasagne which was made Romagna style with Parmesan Sauce.

[/vc_column_text][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”11108,11109,11111,11110,11112″ display_title_caption=”true” layout=”3″ gallery_style=”4″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][heading]Making the sweet ending all the more better, the night  ended with a classic tiramisu , and some decadent chocolate.[/heading][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” layout=”3″ gallery_style=”1″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self” interval=”3″ images=”11115,11116,11117″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]Truly enjoyed the event thoroughly and it surely is a memory for me to last a long time. I can’t wait for the next one. It was a pleasure to meet a lot of new blogger friends: Debbie, Polly, Ms Hala, Roua,  Nathaly, Rachel and Doha’s keen foodies. And, definitely special thanks to Hungry Birds Doha for coming up with this one-of-a-kind experience.

Until next time, with lots of love,

xox

Kay[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Bio Oil For You | Win It!

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Originated and manufactured in South Africa, this problem-solution specialist skincare oil was launched in 1987 and has grown to become the global leader in this segment over the last 26 years. Globally, Bio-Oil has won more than 135 skincare awards, as well as becoming the No.1 selling scar and stretch mark product in 17 countries. It is also the product most recommended by pharmacists for scars and stretch marks in the UK, Australia and South Africa. Many doctors and pharmacists around the world recommend Bio-Oil as their first choice for scars and stretch marks.

Bio-Oil is also highly effective for numerous other skin concerns including ageing and dehydrated skin on all parts of the body.

I find it an almost weightless oil that is only just a little greasy to the touch. This absorbs faster than you would expect it too but don’t expect too much on the scent scale. Nothing too nasty, just a very tolerable clinical smell.

[/vc_column_text][fancy-ul icon_type=”font_icon” icon=”icon-heart” color=”Accent-Color” enable_animation=”true”]The top 10 uses for Bio-Oil as shared by fanatics around the world are:

• Reduce the appearance of stretch mark: In a proDERM 2010 clinical study, 100% of subjects recorded an improvement in 8 weeks. Based on the study, 90% of subjects said Bio-Oil helped reduce the appearance of the pigmentation (colour).
• Say goodbye to blotchiness and uneven skin tone: Based on the Stephens & Associates 2011 clinical study, after 12 weeks 86% of subjects using Bio-Oil showed a statistically significant improvement in uneven skin tone on the face.
• Acne scars treatment: Try using Bio-Oil on the acne spot religiously to reduce the appearance of scars. Apply twice daily on the affected area for minimum of 3 months for best results to be seen. Do not use on broken skin.
• Nourish aging skin with Bio-Oil’s combination of vitamins A and E, Calendula, Lavender and Rosemary oils, and Chamomile extract.
• Moisturize dry, cracked elbows, heels and skin calluses, rub on Bio-Oil religiously to make them feel soft and moisturized.
• Dry cuticles: Treat dry cuticles after nail treatments and hand wash.
• Tame pesky fly-aways with Bio-Oil and use it as a hair serum.
• Use as massage oil. Relax and treat your skin at the same time.
• Use Bio-Oil as a makeup primer right before your foundation for a dewy long-lasting finish.

If you invest on bio-oil, you get a product that works AND can function as a moisturizer, a hair serum or a makeup primer. I’ve done the hair serum bit and think that while it could be better, it does work quite okay to keep unruly fringes in check. This is one product that I’ll not hesitate to recommend.[/fancy-ul][vc_column_text]As for the post, it is not just a review but a reminder for the ongoing giveaway on the facebook page at

Just in case you are curious, the giveaway ends on the 5th of March.

Head over there if you havent participated yet and stand yourself a chance to win the bio oil gift bag. Also, if you have used bio-oil before you can leave a review in the comment box.

Wishing you a wonderful month and a beautiful day!

Until next time,

xox

Kay[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]