Valentine’s for… singles

Traditional convention – not to mention super-cynical marketing types – tells you that Valentine’s Day is a day for cooing gently at your loved one while treating them to a lavish meal and compliments by the second.
Traditional convention, however, didn’t bargain with The Laughter Factory and its laissez-faire approach to love. So, ditch the microwave meal for one and abandon your sofa for the comedy-based hijinks at Ramada Plaza Doha (428 1428, 8pm, QR110) featuring another batch of comedians being flown in from London. The laughter can be enjoyed on Feb 14 and 15, and the entry price includes one free drink from the event sponsor.

Alternatively, get yourself down to the masquerade party by the pool taking place at Wahm at the W Hotel (453 5353). The venue will be decorated with red and white roses, candles and balloons, with electronica tunes courtesy of DJ Karl. All ladies receive a complimentary rose-flavoured welcome drink on arrival, while everyone will be handed a mask – the colour of which denotes relationship status (so green for singletons; if you want to meet other people, just look for all the greens). For something a little more refined, head along to Sky View Bar at La Cigale (428 8888) where you’re guaranteed a good-looking crowd, cracking cocktails and fantastic views of the city.

For those looking for something more energetic, La Paloma (InterContinental Hotel) holds their weekly salsa nights every Sunday, with free entry (484 4444, 9pm start). With lessons from someone probably boasting a ponytail and called Manuel, you can learn to meringue, flamenco and salsa to your heart’s content. Don’t let the small matter that you need a partner send you into a depressive spiral, as there’s bound to be plenty of partners you can impress with your fancy footwork.

And guys looking to impress can do so by venturing out with a selection of hand-made chocolate truffles they whipped up a few days earlier. How, you may ask? Simply pop along to the special cookery class on February 12 at the Grand Hyatt Doha (448 1282). For QR150 you’ll learn how to make delicious sweets under the tutelage of executive pastry chef Christoph Reinthaler. Happy hunting.