bazaar July 2026

July 2026 | Issue #318 www.bazaar.town

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It’s getting hot in here, so the song goes, no need for the rest of that sentence, but definitely time to think about summer holidays, or if you’re here for the summer, time to properly investigate beach club memberships, or chalet rentals on the weekend, anything that results in you in a chilled pool sipping on a refreshing mocktail!

Our July issue is always a special one. It marks the heart of summer, when life slows down just enough for us to catch our breath, spend more time with family and friends, and perhaps discover a few stories we might otherwise have missed.

This month, we sit down with Yahia Lababidi, whose latest book reminds us that words matter, and that literature can become an act of conscience when silence is no longer an option.

At a time when the world feels increasingly polarized, his reflections on language, empathy, and moral witness feel more relevant than ever.

We also meet Nasima Nakooda, who is helping Kuwait embrace a more holistic approach to wellness, one built around movement, recovery, and understanding how the body works rather than chasing quick fixes. Her work reminds us that feeling lighter often starts from within.

As temperatures continue to rise, Abyat shows us how thoughtful design begins with the fabrics we live with every day, introducing breathable bamboo textiles, luxurious Egyptian cotton, and simple seasonal updates that can transform a home into a cooler, calmer summer retreat.

Meanwhile, IKEA reminds us that good design should also be sustainable, with its new Buyback service giving well-loved furniture a second life and making circular living an easy, practical part of everyday home improvement.

Purva Grover takes us on a nostalgic journey through Kuwait summers of years gone by, reminding us that some of our fondest memories were made despite, or perhaps because of, the forty-six-degree heat. From ice skating and Marina Beach to Rocket Lollies and evening sheesha, it is a love letter to the summers that shaped generations.

For motorsport enthusiasts, Toyota GAZOO Racing continues its remarkable run with a commanding podium sweep at Rally Japan, demonstrating once again that the toughest roads continue to build ever-better cars.

And finally, for those staying in Kuwait this summer, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait reminds us that the perfect getaway doesn’t always require a passport. From restorative spa experiences and private cabana dining to bespoke celebrations and tranquil poolside escapes, luxury can sometimes be found just around the corner.

Happy reading, happy staying cool!

Ahmed El-Adly

The bazaar team...

Boss

Ahmed El-Adly

Editor

Alia Al Duaij

Operations Manager Ihab Youssef

Content Manager Yasmine El Charif

Design

Shadi Mofeed

Staff Writer/Online Media Yasmin Gamal Israa Odeh Hanan Othman

Contributor Purva Grover

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Syndicates & Sources Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek

Printing

MIDADPACK The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

members of:

w w w. b p aw w. c o m tel.2571 6122 info@bazaar-magazine.com www.bazaar.town | Zahra Complex, Salmiya. 8th floor, office 35 @bazaargram bazaarmagazine @bazaartweets No one likes to be dumped;

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Some books ask to be read. Others ask something of the reader. Yahia Lababidi’s latest work is a deeply personal meditation on language, conscience, and the courage to bear witness, reminding us that words still matter when the world feels at its loudest.

Nasima Nakooda believes true wellbeing isn’t found in quick fixes or passing trends. Through movement, recovery, and a deeper understanding of the body, she’s helping people discover that lasting health begins by listening inward rather than constantly searching outward.

Long before smartphones and streaming, Kuwaiti summers were built on beach days, ice skating, Rocket Lollies, and evenings that seemed to last forever. Purva Grover takes us back to the memories that continue to define an entire generation.

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Summer starts at home. Abyat explores how breathable bamboo textiles, luxurious Egyptian cotton, and thoughtful seasonal updates can transform any space into a cooler, calmer retreat without sacrificing comfort, style, or the feeling of home.

Whether you’re planning a celebration, escaping to a private cabana, or simply looking for a little stillness this season, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait proves that the perfect summer getaway might be closer than you think.

IF YOU CANNOT SAY GENOCIDE

A COOLER WAY TO LIVE

WELLNESS, REIMAGINED

SUMMER, PERFECTLY CURATED

THE SUMMER WE ALL REMEMBER

SECOND CHANCES What if your old furniture could become someone else’s new beginning? IKEA’s Buyback service turns sustainability into something practical, giving well-loved pieces a second life while helping create homes that are kinder to both people and the planet.

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THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MOMENTS The finest hospitality is rarely about buildings or amenities. At Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, it is the people who leave the lasting impression. Meet the baker, therapist, athlete, storyteller, and service professionals whose passion quietly transforms everyday moments into unforgettable experiences.

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RACING AT HOME Toyota GAZOO Racing delivered a spectacular onetwo-three-four finish at Rally Japan, proving once again that motorsport remains the ultimate testing ground. Every victory on the world’s toughest stages continues to shape the cars that eventually reach our roads.

RACING AT HOME P. 62

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THE WEIGHT OF WORDS

Yahia Lababidi on literature, moral witness, and why silence was never an option By bazaar staff

For Yahia Lababidi, the journey from poetry to prose was never part of the plan. The Arab American poet and essayist has spent much of his career exploring faith, exile, identity, and the search for meaning through verse. But as the devastation in Gaza unfolded, poetry no longer felt sufficient. The lyricism that had shaped his work for decades gave way to essays, driven by a need to document, question, and bear witness.

That evolution culminates in If You Cannot Say GENOCIDE: Essays on Conscience and Witness, a collection of 47 essays written between 2023 and 2026 that examine grief, memory, language, and the moral responsibilities of those watching history unfold from afar. The book’s striking cover features I See Birds, an artwork by Palestinian artist Malak Mattar, whose haunting visual language reflects the themes of resilience, humanity, and remembrance woven throughout the collection. Rather than offering political analysis alone, the book asks a deeper question: What happens when conscience refuses to look away?

“It wasn’t a conscious decision,” Lababidi says of the transition. “Something dried up in me after Palestine Wail. I’ve not been able to write poems since. If I cannot sing, I told myself, I must at least faithfully document the unrelenting awfulness of the news.”

For him, prose became the only form capable of carrying the weight of the moment.

“Poetry cries out,” he explains. “Prose asks why the cry goes unheard.”

That distinction lies at the heart of the collection. The essays move fluidly between memoir, philosophy, literary criticism, and cultural reflection, creating a body of work that is as introspective as it is urgent. Rather than documenting events alone, Lababidi examines the language surrounding them, questioning how public discourse determines what is acknowledged, what is forgotten, and what remains unspeakable.

The book’s title is perhaps its most direct statement.

“Naming matters,” he says. “When the words that describe the horrors on the ground are replaced with softer alternatives, something essential is lost.”

For Lababidi, language is never neutral. The words societies choose or refuse to use ultimately shape public memory, political accountability, and collective conscience. To avoid certain words, he argues, is often to soften the reality they describe.

Although the essays were written from the United States, distance never translated into detachment. If anything, Lababidi believes physical separation heightened his sense of responsibility.

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“When your home is on fire, you feel the heat halfway across the world,” he says. “Distance does not collapse responsibility. If anything, it increases it.”

His perspective is informed by multiple identities: an American citizen, an Arab, whose grandparents were Palestinian and a writer whose career has consistently explored questions of belonging and displacement. Those intersecting experiences allow the essays to move beyond immediate events, reflecting instead on what it means to remain ethically engaged in an age saturated with information but often marked by emotional fatigue.

Lababidi’s grandfather, Yahya Lababidi, served as subdirector of Arabic music at Radio Jerusalem, where he worked alongside the poet Ibrahim Tuqan, and famously wrote the lyrics for “Ya Ritni Tir” (‫ )يا ريتني طير‬the song that launched Farid al-Atrash’s career as a singer. His grandmother, Rabiha Dajani, later became a pioneering educator in Kuwait, where she founded Jeel Al Jadeed, among the country’s earliest private girls’ schools.

What distinguishes If You Cannot Say GENOCIDE from many contemporary political books is its unwavering belief in literature itself.

Throughout the collection, Lababidi draws on poets, philosophers, novelists, and historians, arguing that literature remains one of humanity’s most powerful tools for preserving dignity in moments of profound loss. Where politics often reduces people to statistics or headlines, art restores complexity.

“Art honors the richness of the human spirit in ways that politics cannot,” he says. “Literature helps breathe warmth and complexity into the caricatures on the news.”

It is a philosophy that has shaped his writing throughout his career. If You Cannot Say GENOCIDE marks his sixteenth book, joining a body of work that includes poetry, essays, aphorisms, and reflections translated into more than a dozen languages. His writing has appeared in publications including Liberties, The New Statesman, The Threepenny Review, World Literature Today, and The New Arab, establishing him as a distinctive literary voice whose work often bridges the personal and the philosophical.

The response to the book has reflected that literary positioning. Historians, scholars, and public intellectuals including Peter Beinart, Hamid Dabashi, Sarah Leah Whitson, Ilan Pappé, and Norman Finkelstein have praised the collection for combining moral inquiry with literary craftsmanship, emphasizing its insistence on confronting difficult realities through language rather than looking away.

Yet for Lababidi, the book is ultimately less about persuading readers than inviting them into a shared humanity.

“At the heart of our catastrophes is a crisis of love,” he says. “The world still assigns different values to different human lives.”

He hopes readers leave with a renewed sense of empathy rather than certainty.

“I would hope a sympathetic reader might be moved toward greater pity and mercy,” he says, “and toward the sobering recognition that, but for the grace of God, it might have been them, or their own children.”

Even those approaching the book with skepticism, he believes, deserve an invitation rather than a condemnation.

“All I ask is that they remain open long enough to recognize the person writing,” he says.

“Someone who loves literature and prays, who carries a family history, and who arrived at these conclusions honestly.”

In an era increasingly defined by polarization, If You Cannot Say GENOCIDE offers neither easy answers nor ideological certainty. Instead, it asks readers to consider the relationship between language and responsibility, and whether bearing witness begins with something as simple, and as difficult, as refusing silence.

For Lababidi, literature has always been a search for truth. This time, it became an act of conscience.

If You Cannot Say GENOCIDE: Essays on Conscience and Witness is published by New Village Press, distributed by NYU Press, and will be available October 6, 2026.

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5 FREE WAYS TO BEAT SUMMER BOREDOM

Simple activities that keep kids engaged, creative, and off their screens something you grow into—first by habit, and then, unexpectedly, by heart.

By bazaar staff

Summer holidays are a gift until the inevitable words arrive: “I’m bored.” While it’s tempting to hand over a tablet or plan an expensive outing, childhood experts suggest that boredom isn’t something to eliminate entirely. In fact, it can be the starting point for creativity.

Psychologist Dr. Teresa Belton, who has researched boredom and creativity, argues that periods of unstructured time encourage children to develop imagination, problem-solving skills, and independence. The key is offering a spark rather than a fully planned activity.

Here are five fun, completely free ways to turn an ordinary afternoon into an adventure.

Build an Indoor Obstacle Course Gather cushions, chairs, blankets, masking tape, and anything else that’s already around the house.

Create tunnels to crawl through, balance lines on the floor, jumping stations, or “lava” that can only be crossed using cushions.

The best part? Let your children design the course themselves after the first round. Planning the challenge often takes longer than completing it, keeping them entertained while encouraging creativity, spatial thinking, and teamwork.

Create a Family Art Gallery Instead of asking children to simply draw, give them a mission. Create artwork around a theme such as “My Dream Vacation,” “Under the Sea,” or “Invent a New Animal.”

Display every masterpiece around the house like a real gallery. Make simple labels with the artist’s name and title, then spend ten minutes “touring” the exhibition together.

Children often become far more invested when their creations are celebrated rather than simply placed on the refrigerator.

Go on a Nature Treasure Hunt You don’t need a forest or a park to explore nature.

A garden, apartment courtyard, or neighborhood street works just as well.

Create a simple list of things to find: something smooth, something rough, a feather, a flower, a heart-shaped leaf, an interesting rock, or something that smells nice.

The goal isn’t collecting everything, but encouraging children to slow down and really observe the world around them.

Become Kitchen Scientists The kitchen is full of simple science experiments.

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See whether different objects float or sink. Mix baking soda and vinegar if you already have them.

Freeze small toys inside ice cubes and challenge children to “rescue” them using warm water and spoons. Experiment with what dissolves in water and what doesn’t.

The activity feels like play while naturally introducing observation, prediction, and experimentation.

Put on a Living Room Talent Show Encourage everyone in the family to prepare a short performance. It could be singing, dancing, telling jokes, magic tricks, poetry, storytelling, or even teaching a new skill.

Create homemade tickets, assign someone as the host, and applaud every performance. Younger children especially love having an audience, and

preparing their act builds confidence as well as communication skills.

Let Boredom Do Some of the Work Perhaps the most valuable activity is doing...nothing.

It may sound counterintuitive, but experts suggest that children don’t need every minute scheduled.

After the initial complaints, many begin inventing games, building imaginary worlds, or finding projects of their own. Those moments of self-directed play build resilience, independence, and creativity in ways structured entertainment often cannot.

This summer, resist the pressure to fill every hour.

Sometimes all children need is a little inspiration, a little space, and permission to be wonderfully bored before their imagination takes over.

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LIVING IN A POST-AUTHENTICITY WORLD

When everything can be curated, filtered, and optimized, what does it even mean to be real anymore?

By bazaar staff

There was a time when “authentic” meant something. It meant the unpolished version, the unguarded moment, the thing that happened before anyone thought to document it. Now authenticity is a brand strategy, a caption aesthetic, a carefully constructed casualness that takes three outfit changes to achieve. We didn’t lose realness. We just learned to perform it.

The feed is not your friend Social media didn’t invent self-presentation, but it industrialized it.

Every platform rewards a specific version of you, and over time, most people quietly begin to edit themselves toward whatever gets the warmest response. The danger isn’t that you’re being fake.

It’s that you stop noticing the gap between who you are and who you’re posting.

Aesthetic as identity When a visual language becomes a personality, something gets flattened.

Cottagecore, clean girl, that girl, quiet luxury: each one is a coherent world with its own rules, its own products, its own approved emotions. They’re appealing precisely because they’re complete. But identity built entirely from borrowed imagery tends to feel hollow from the inside, even when it looks cohesive from the outside.

The nostalgia trap One response to postauthenticity overload is a retreat into “realness”: 24

grain, disposable cameras, unedited dumps, lo-fi everything. But nostalgia for analogue texture is still a curated choice. Performing rawness is still a performance. The longing is genuine. The expression of it rarely is.

What actually holds The things that feel most real tend to be the ones that exist entirely off-screen: the conversation that went too long, the meal that nobody photographed, the friendship that has never been posted about once. Not because offline is inherently more authentic, but because those moments were never shaped for an audience. They were just allowed to happen.

Authenticity vs. sincerity, and why the distinction matters Authenticity asks: am I being true to myself? Sincerity asks: do I actually mean this?

They sound like the same question, but they’re not.

Authenticity has become so tied to self-expression and personal brand that it can justify almost

anything, including behavior that is entirely selfserving, as long as it feels genuine to the person doing it. Sincerity is quieter and harder to fake. It has less to do with how you present yourself and more to do with whether you’re actually present, whether you mean what you say, whether you’d do this if no one were watching. In a post-authenticity world, sincerity is the better metric, not because it’s more honest, but because it’s directed outward rather than inward. It asks less about who you are and more about what you owe the moment you’re in.

The question worth sitting with Not “am I being authentic?” but “do I actually mean this?” The first question has an audience. The second one doesn’t need one.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash.

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A DIFFERENT KIND OF FLOW AND WELLNESS WITH NASIMA NAKOODA

Meet the personal trainer and Brazilian lymphatic drainage therapist teaching Kuwait to feel lighter from the inside out By bazaar staff

Nasima Nakooda does not believe in quick fixes. As a personal trainer, mat Pilates instructor, and Brazilian lymphatic drainage therapist, she has spent years working at the intersection of performance, recovery, and deep physical ease. Eight months into her time in Kuwait, she has built a growing community around a simple but transformative idea: feeling lighter is not about losing something. It is about flow.

Her path to Brazilian lymphatic drainage was shaped by the treatment’s rare ability to hold two things at once: visible results and genuine internal benefit. Clients often arrive drawn by the promise of reduced bloating or a slimmer silhouette, and Nakooda welcomes that. But she knows the real conversion happens later. “People come in for the aesthetic results, and that is completely valid,” she 26

says. “But what surprises them is how different they feel. Not just how they look, but how they actually feel in their body.”

Brazilian lymphatic drainage is a highly specialized bodywork technique, distinct from a traditional massage in both its method and its intention. Where a conventional massage works the muscles, lymphatic drainage works the system

beneath, using precise, rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymphatic network and encourage the efficient clearance of excess fluid and waste from the body. The shift clients feel is almost immediate: lighter, more comfortable, more at ease.

The lymphatic system is one the body rarely draws our attention to until something feels off.

A persistent puffiness, a heaviness that sleep

does not shift, a bloated discomfort that seems to have no clear cause. Unlike the circulatory system, which is driven by the steady rhythm of the heart, the lymphatic system has no dedicated pump. It depends entirely on movement, breath, and muscle contraction to keep things flowing. When life becomes sedentary, stressful, or out of balance, the system slows, and the body begins to hold on.

“Most people have no idea how much the lymphatic system affects how they feel day to day,” Nakooda explains. “Fatigue, puffiness, that heavy feeling you cannot shake: so much of that comes back to lymphatic sluggishness. Once clients understand that, everything clicks.”

Clients consistently leave her sessions reporting less bloating, deeper relaxation, and a renewed sense of energy they had not realized they were missing. The results are tangible enough that Nakooda often documents them. Every session begins with a thorough consultation, during which she takes time to understand each client’s lifestyle, health concerns, and personal goals.

Before-and-after photography is a regular part of the process, offering a clear, objective record of what the body can release in a single appointment.

It is a grounding exercise as much as a practical one: a way of making the invisible visible.

She is careful, however, not to position the treatment as a standalone solution. The results of lymphatic drainage are shaped, in large part, by what happens outside the treatment room. “I always tell my clients that I can only do so much in the session itself,” she says. “What you do the other 23 hours of the day matters just as much. Are you hydrating properly? Are you sleeping? Are you moving?” Hydration, sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet all play a significant role in sustaining the body’s internal flow. Movement, too, is non-negotiable, whether through walking, structured exercise, or something as simple and underestimated as deep, deliberate breathing.

A single session can offer an immediate and welcome shift, but Nakooda is clear that it is the combination of consistent treatment and conscious daily habits that produces real, lasting change. This philosophy extends beyond lymphatic drainage and into every aspect of her practice. As a personal trainer and Pilates instructor, she approaches the body as an interconnected system rather than a collection of isolated concerns, and she brings that same holistic thinking to every client she works with.

The response in Kuwait has exceeded her expectations. What she has encountered is not a clientele seeking a cosmetic shortcut, but one with a

genuine and growing appetite for understanding how their bodies actually work. “Kuwait has surprised me in the best way,” she says. “People here are curious.

They want to understand the why, not just the result.

That makes the work so much more meaningful.”

That curiosity, she believes, is exactly the foundation that lasting wellness is built on.

Her goal, as she continues to expand her practice, remains rooted in education and empowerment. She wants more people to

understand that Brazilian lymphatic drainage is not a beauty treatment with a wellness story bolted on.

It is a restorative, medically informed practice with real implications for long-term physical comfort, confidence, and quality of life. “The body wants to function well,” she says. “Sometimes it just needs a little help finding its flow.”

To book a session or follow Nasima Nakooda’s work, find her on Instagram at @fit_nas11.

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SUMMERS THAT STAY WITH YOU After a handful of summers in the country, even 46 degrees becomes

something you grow into—first by habit, and then, unexpectedly, by heart.

By Purva Grover

Summer feels harsher this year, even from a distance. My husband doesn’t say it, but I hear it. I sense increased activity on his WhatsApp with his childhood friends, ex-colleagues, and a few individuals he knows only through LinkedIn. A country shaken but not stirred, Kuwait is caught in the midst of the geopolitical goals of the US, Israel, and Iran, and lately, not all days have been pure sunshine. It’s no different here in Dubai, where we both live now. Summer feels quieter here too. It’s natural that he is reminded of the summer of ‘90, when his home faced the Gulf War. They were away, thankfully. His father returned to Kuwait soon after the War, and his mother and elder sibling joined later. During many summers, they would travel to the home country, spending time with relatives in India, carrying Tang (orange flavor) and Nido milk powder, often picked up at the airport, along with a selection of electronic items (VCRs and cordless phones!). “But what were summers like when you stayed back? “ I ask, hoping to change the mood. “Did you really cook sunny-side-up eggs on the car bonnets?” I throw him a lifeline to change the mood and to draw in some laughter too. “Or is that purely for the ‘Gram and TikTok?” And we go down the memory lane.

Every kid in Kuwait knew how to ice skate.

Now, that’s not just an aspiration or a false claim; it’s a fact I can vouch for. He can, and so can all his friends! The Ice Skating Rink was the spot to be seen at if you were a cool kid, and many summers were spent skating against the backdrop of the latest music. Inaugurated in 1980, the rink was not only the first in Kuwait but also the first ice skating complex in the Middle East. I learned how it was minimalistic and not commercial, “The way most entertainment zones meant for kids these days are.” It was large, with walls adorned in geometric Sadu weaving patterns. It was cool not only to be inside, but also the time spent on the seats around the rink, or even waiting outside to be picked up by parents, was as exciting. And how much did it cost for, say, an hour of fun? “KD 5.00/person for a 1.5-hour session, including skate rentals!”

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And at just KD 1.50, you could rent the penguinshaped walker.

And then there were Marina Beach days in Salmiya; as school-going children, everyone looked forward to this outing. When school was on, herds of kids in school buses would make their way, with a snack and beachwear in the excursion bags.

“Just a drive on the Gulf Road and you could see the beaches and ocean; they stay full in view, not hidden by a barrage of buildings.” Sunrise at the beach was another common activity and summer goal.

There was also some gully cricket in the home compound, a few cycle rides in the neighborhood (and when left unlocked, they were stolen, but that’s a story for a different day), and when there was not much to do, there was always the KDD Rocket Lolly (apparently, banana and raspberry were the most popular) to fall back on. Growing up brought

it with it, Sheesha, yes, even in the summer: It was and perhaps still is the one staple pleasure of their lives. I laugh, comparing it to the gathering of men over a game of backgammon or a Karak. “Back then, you could easily spend an evening for just 1 KD sheesha.”

The ice skating rink was demolished in 2020.

Most of the beaches are now promenades lined with fine-dining eateries. Sheesha flavors cost a tad more and are fancier, too. But what’s stayed intact is the resilience of the kids, now adults, who know that after having spent a handful of summers in the country, one grows fond of even 46 degrees, out of habit, yes, but also out of love.

Purva Grover is a UAE-based author, journalist, and creative entrepreneur. You can stalk her on Instagram, @purvagr.

Photo by LATIKA SARKER on Unsplash.

battle of the

black gold

FINDING CLARITY IN JAPAN’S CENTRAL HIGHLANDS Beyond the city limits of Tokyo lies a landscape of open air, alpine clarity, and design-led serenity. Here, spring does not just arrive; it breathes By bazaar staff

The air in Japan’s central highlands does not just shift with the seasons. As spring transitions into early summer, the Yatsugatake Highlands and the Southern Japanese Alps transform into a landscape defined by expansive space and an almost startling clarity. For the city dweller, it is more than a change in climate; it is a profound reset.

Located just two hours from the kinetic energy of Tokyo, this region serves as an antithesis to the frantic pace of modern life. It is not a destination for the check-list traveler, but rather for those who seek to engage with the natural world through a lens of comfort and curiosity. Whether you are navigating the rolling foothills or retreating into an art-filled sanctuary, the highlands invite you to abandon the itinerary and simply exist within the landscape.

The New Way to Roam In the Yatsugatake Highlands, the terrain is vast, covering the intersection of Yamanashi and Nagano Prefectures. The modern solution to traversing this sprawl? The e-bike. Far from the intensity of traditional cycling, guided e-bike tours are designed for the gentle exploration of rural Japan. With electricassisted support, the landscape becomes accessible to everyone, from families to the leisurely traveler.

These routes are meticulously curated to wind through quiet forest trails and local farmland, turning a standard excursion into an intimate encounter with the region’s seasonal production and rural pulse.

Perspectives at Altitude At 1,300 meters, Fujimi Kogen Resort offers an elevated take on the mountain experience. Here, the “Sozo-no-Mori” observation area acts as a natural gallery, providing sweeping views that stretch toward the Northern Japanese Alps and the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji. But the resort’s true innovation lies in its hospitality. With services like the “Sky Cart,” the physical barrier to enjoying such vistas is removed. It is a thoughtful design approach, one that prioritizes accessibility and comfort, allowing visitors to dictate the pace of their own day, whether through forest trekking, a round of golf, or simply taking in the altitude.

The Season on a Plate To understand Shinshu, which is modern-day Nagano, is to understand its rhythm of growth. Blessed with long hours of sun and dramatic temperature shifts between day and night, the region is a powerhouse of Japanese agriculture. At Miharashi Farm, situated against the backdrop of the Southern Japanese Alps, the calendar is dictated by the harvest. It is a place to connect with the land in its purest form: picking strawberries in the spring, blueberries in the heat of summer, or harvesting apples as the season 30

turns. For those traveling in groups, the farm offers a grounding, tactile connection to local food culture, from the discipline of soba-making to the simple pleasure of walking trails that feel miles away from the world outside.

A Stay-in Museum Perhaps the most distinctive retreat in the region is Hotel Keyforest Hokuto. In the highlands of Kobuchizawa, the property eschews the conventional hotel format in favor of a “stay-in museum” concept.

Art is not merely a feature here; it is the core of the guest experience, with contemporary works integrated seamlessly into the property’s architectural DNA.

With only six rooms, the hotel offers a rare sense of intimacy. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows act as living frames for the Yatsugatake Mountains, while forest pathways connect guests directly to the Nakamura Keith Haring Collection. For those requiring total seclusion, the Ayus Villa Misen offers a private onsen and a rooftop terrace perfect for observing the crisp, clear mountain night skies.

It is a reminder that the most successful retreats are those that remove the noise of everyday life, leaving only the essentials: fresh air, thoughtful design, and a landscape that, for a few days at least, belongs entirely to you.

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SUMMER MADE SOFTER

How to let your home breathe this season, with a little help from Abyat By bazaar Staff

Kuwait summers have a way of making everything feel heavy. The air, the light, the hours between noon and four when the city goes quiet and retreats indoors. What most people don’t account for is how much the home itself contributes to that weight, and how quickly the right textiles can lift it.

Level up your sleep with the softest bamboo bedding.

The principle is the same one that governs what we wear. When the temperature climbs, we reach for linen and cotton, for fabrics that breathe and move and don’t demand anything of the body.

The home responds to the same logic. Swapping out heavy bedding, dense throws, and thick bath textiles for their summer counterparts is one of the most effective ways to change how a space feels without changing the space itself. Bedding alone covers enough surface area that a single change of material, color, or weight can shift the entire mood of a bedroom. Abyat’s summer textile range is built around exactly this idea, anchored by three collections: Bamboo, Resort, and Prestige.

The Material Conversation Not all fabrics perform equally when temperatures 32

push past 45 degrees, and the difference between a good summer textile and a great one comes down to what happens at the level of the fiber itself.

Bamboo is the quiet revelation of recent seasons. The natural air channels within bamboo yarn increase airflow in a way that synthetic cooling claims rarely deliver on. It is hypoallergenic, fastdrying, and antibacterial, which means that even in humid conditions, freshness is maintained rather than fought for. The feel is silky without being slippery, and the Bamboo Collection at Abyat carries that quality across fitted sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases, dressing gowns and sleeping masks, all finished at a 300-thread-count that sits comfortably between performance and indulgence.

For families with young children, Abyat offers a blend of Bamboo and BCI cotton which is grown

by farmers trained by the Better Cotton Initiative, a global non-profit that promotes eco-friendly and socially responsible farming methods that use significantly less water and pesticides during cultivation. Softer, safer and sustainable materials for your loved ones. The Bamboo Swaddle Collection extends this same philosophy with a blend of 70% bamboo and 30% BCI cotton gauze, a fabric that is gentle, breathable, and designed around the needs of small bodies during the hottest months. If your little one has outgrown the swaddle, it is time to upgrade to the kids bedding, made from 60% Bamboo and 40% BCI Cotton, so they can sleep comfortably and have more energy for play and growth during the day.

Egyptian cotton tells a different story. Where bamboo feels precise and modern, Egyptian cotton is classic in the best sense. The long-staple fibers

create a larger surface area that absorbs moisture efficiently, which is why the Resort Collection, built on Egyptian cotton at thread counts reaching 600, carries the quality of a luxurious 5-star hotel room. The towels are dense and structured without feeling oppressive. The bathrobes feel effortless to wear. It is the kind of textile that improves with every wash rather than diminishing, and the collection is designed to recreate a luxury hospitality experience within the home rather than merely approximate it.

The Prestige Collection sits in its own register.

French-inspired in its sensibility, it brings a more decorative elegance to bedding and bath, layering refinement into rooms where comfort and sophistication need to coexist. For those who want summer to feel elevated as much as restful, it provides the answer.

Small Changes, Real Impact The upgrades that make the most visible difference are not always the largest ones. Beyond bedding, the textile decisions that carry disproportionate weight are often the ones most easily dismissed.

Lighter cushion covers can refresh an entire living room without touching the furniture. A waffle-weave towel, with its distinctive texture and exceptional absorbency at a lighter weight, brings something new to a bathroom in a way that feels considered rather than decorated. Table runners, placemats, and tablecloths in natural cotton or linen change the atmosphere of a dining table in a way that reads as seasonal without requiring effort to maintain.

Curtains and window treatments deserve more attention than they typically receive. Thermally isolating options help stabilize room temperature during the peak afternoon hours, while linen curtains add softness and movement to a space.

The two approaches can work across different rooms of the same home, addressing both comfort and style without conflict. In bedrooms and living rooms where air conditioning runs consistently, the Resort Collection performs particularly well, with its premium Egyptian cotton holding its comfort level regardless of the internal climate.

The Hungarian Down and Feather Duvet is a dream come true, providing comfort and fluffiness all year round because it stays cool in the summer and warm in winter.

Provide your growing little ones with the good rest they need to grow with the Kid's bamboo bedding collection

Start your day in softness

You don't need to leave your house to feel like you are on vacation [Continued...]

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We use towels every day, and investing in good quality bamboo towels will make your life so much better Color plays its own role in how a space feels during summer. This season, the tones responding most strongly to the Kuwait climate are oatmeal, off-white, sage, classic white, and the soft greige that has been building momentum for several years. They are colors that read as cool even on the hottest days, and they coordinate naturally with the organic textures of bamboo and linen without requiring precision in how they are combined.

The Personalization Layer Abyat’s in-store embroidery service has expanded beyond its original gifting context into something more personal. Customers are increasingly personalizing textiles for their own homes rather than as presents, treating it as a form of quiet selfexpression and, in larger households, a practical way to distinguish shared pieces. A monogram on a bathrobe. Initials on a guest towel set. A child’s name stitched onto a swaddle. The service is available at the Shuwaikh and Warehouse branches, with 38 thread colors across Arabic and English fonts, and a turnaround for most pieces of approximately 20 minutes.

What makes personalized textiles feel more significant than most personalized objects is that they are used daily. Unlike a framed piece or a decorative object that holds its meaning at a distance, a monogrammed robe is something you reach for every morning. The function and the sentiment become inseparable, which is why this category continues to grow well beyond the gifting season.

Summer, approached this way, stops being a season to manage and becomes one to actually inhabit. The home gets quieter, lighter, and more genuinely comfortable. That is not a small thing when the city outside is 48 degrees.

Shop the Summer Made Softer edit at Abyat.

Embroidery available at Shuwaikh and Warehouse branches. Visit abyat.com for the full range.

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C

M

Y

CM

MY

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The quiet luxury of monogrammed bedding

The new Resort collection (100% Egyptian cotton) with new embroidered colors are the hottest trend this season

QASIMI: THE ART OF THE PERMANENT

A decade of evolution finds its next chapter in QASIMI’s debut leather goods collection.

By bazaar staff

For ten years, QASIMI has occupied a quiet, intentional space in the fashion landscape. Under the creative direction of Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, the London-based house has established a design language that feels less like a trend and more like a conversation, one rooted in cultural dialogue, functionality, and an understated, structural elegance.

It is this balance of softness and form that defines their latest milestone: the launch of the brand’s first Permanent Leather Goods Collection.

Conceived not as a passing seasonal release but as a foundational pillar for the brand, this collection translates the utilitarian spirit of nomadic carrying objects into refined, contemporary forms. Crafted from premium, supple nappa leather in timeless black and rich brown, the range feels tactile and purposeful.

From the versatility of the tote and the ease of the crossbody to the simplicity of the wash bag and card holder, every piece is designed to evolve. These are objects intended to age beautifully, picking up the patina of a life lived in motion.

Since Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi took the helm in 2019 to preserve the legacy of her late twin brother, founder Khalid Al Qasimi, the brand has remained steadfast in its mission.

The QASIMI narrative centers on the “urban nomad”, an individual moving through global cultures, seeking to unite rather than divide through the powerful medium of design.

With this collection, that narrative becomes something you can carry with you. It is a seamless extension of the brand’s philosophy: clothing and objects that move with their wearer, offering a sense of purpose that remains long after the season ends.

The collection is designed to be more than just accessories; it is an invitation to integrate QASIMI’s ethos of refined, functional luxury into the daily ritual. In a world of fast-moving fashion, this permanent line is a commitment to longevity, quality, and the idea that the best objects are those that grow with you.

As the brand moves into its second decade, this debut into leather goods marks a maturation of its vision. It bridges the gap between the runway and the reality of daily life, proving that fashion can be both intellectually engaging and deeply practical.

Whether navigating city streets or embarking on international journeys, the pieces offer the wearer a constant: a sense of grounded, understated sophistication.

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By focusing on the essentials of form and the integrity of materials, QASIMI ensures that these leather goods are not just possessions, but companions for the long road ahead. It is a new chapter, certainly, but one that feels entirely

consistent with the brand’s storied past.

Explore the collection and the evolving legacy of QASIMI at qasimi.com or follow their journey on Instagram at @qasimi_official.

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WHERE SUMMER ELEGANCE AND MEANINGFUL MOMENTS COME TO LIFE

From Private Cabana Dining to Bespoke Celebrations, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait Crafts the Perfect Summer By bazaar staff

As July unfolds, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait invites guests to embrace a season defined by relaxation, connection, and timeless hospitality. From tranquil poolside escapes and private cabana dining to restorative wellness journeys and bespoke social celebrations, each experience is thoughtfully curated to create unforgettable summer moments.

SIGNATURE OCCASIONS BY WALDORF ASTORIA KUWAIT At Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, life’s most meaningful celebrations are transformed into unforgettable experiences through a collection of bespoke social occasions, thoughtfully designed for baby showers, birthdays, engagements, anniversaries, and intimate gatherings.

Each event is tailored with meticulous attention to detail, where elegant décor, exceptional culinary creations, and personalized service come together to create moments of effortless sophistication. From beautifully styled settings to curated menus inspired by local and international flavors, every celebration reflects the timeless hospitality that defines Waldorf Astoria.

Complemented by dedicated event planning and refined touches throughout the experience, Signature Occasions offers the perfect setting to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

Starting from KWD 35 per person 38

SPA WELLNESS REWARDS AT WALDORF ASTORIA KUWAIT Within the serene surroundings of Waldorf Astoria Kuwait Spa, the Summer Family & Friends Rewards collection offers exclusive wellness experiences designed to inspire relaxation and connection.

The Solo Wellness Reward invites guests to enjoy four 60-minute treatments and receive the fifth treatment complimentary, complemented by a one-time 30-minute body exfoliation upgrade. For shared moments of well-being, the Couple Wellness Reward includes three 60-minute couple massages with a fourth complimentary treatment, enhanced by a one-time 30-minute upgrade to the AMRA 24K Gold Bespoke Massage for two.

Each experience is further complemented by complimentary Kids Club access for up to two hours for children ages 4 to 12, or two hours of pool access for summer fun.

Solo Wellness Reward | KWD 240 Couple Wellness Reward | KWD 400

CABANA DINING EXPERIENCE At OXIO Pool Lounge, guests are invited to discover a refined cabana dining experience where privacy, comfort, and exceptional cuisine come together in a tranquil setting. Designed as a secluded retreat, the experience offers the perfect atmosphere to relax, gather, and indulge under the stars.

Within the cool, air-conditioned comfort of a private cabana, guests can enjoy a curated sharing menu thoughtfully prepared to complement the serene surroundings. Blending culinary excellence with understated luxury, the experience creates an effortless escape from the ordinary.

Small Cabana | KWD 50 for two guests Large Cabana | KWD 80 for four guests SERENITY BY THE POOL Beneath the summer sky, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait presents a sanctuary of poolside tranquility where refined luxury and exceptional hospitality create the perfect setting for relaxation.

Whether seeking a peaceful retreat, intimate moments with loved ones, or a memorable family day, guests can enjoy a collection of thoughtfully curated day pass experiences complemented by attentive service and exceptional dining.

Day Pass Experiences: Signature Day Pass | KWD 45, including KWD 15 dining credits Couple Sanctuary | KWD 70 for two guests, including KWD 30 dining credits Family Escape | KWD 85 for 2 adults and 1 child, including KWD 35 dining credits Grand Family Escape | KWD 90 for 2 adults and 2 children, including KWD 40 dining credits To learn more or reserve your experience, scan the QR code, or call: +965 24774424, +965 2477 4414, or +965 2477 4444.

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7 CRAFT NIGHT IDEAS FOR YOUR FRIENDS

Seven easy DIY ideas that turn an ordinary evening into a creative get-together.

By bazaar staff

Who says a great night out has to happen out? Swap crowded restaurants and expensive plans for an evening of creativity, conversation, and laughter with your favorite people. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a girls’ night, or simply looking for an excuse to get everyone together, these easy DIY projects are the perfect way to spend an evening. No artistic talent required.

Paint Your Own Candles Plain pillar or taper candles become miniature works of art with a few paint pens or acrylic paints.

Experiment with abstract patterns, florals, stripes, or colorful illustrations that match your home’s aesthetic. Everyone leaves with a candle that’s as decorative as it is practical.

Create a Charm Bar Charm bars have become one of the biggest DIY trends, and it’s easy to see why. Fill bowls with beads, chains, pearls, letters, and colorful charms, then let everyone design their own bracelets, necklaces, or phone charms. There are no rules, making every piece completely personal.

Sculpt with Air-Dry Clay Air-dry clay is inexpensive, forgiving, and surprisingly satisfying to work with. Spend the evening making jewelry dishes, trinket trays, candle holders, bud vases, or decorative coasters.

Once dry, paint them in soft neutrals or vibrant colors for pieces that look far more expensive than they are.

Design a Vision Board Pull out old magazines, newspapers, wrapping paper, stickers, and colorful cardstock, then spend the evening creating vision boards. They don’t have to focus on goals alone. Choose themes like dream vacations, future homes, career aspirations, personal growth, or simply “things that make me happy.” It’s a creative activity that naturally sparks meaningful conversations.

Customize Tote Bags or T-Shirts Give plain cotton tote bags or white T-shirts a personal touch using fabric paint, stamps, stencils, iron-on patches, or embroidery thread.

Whether everyone creates bold graphic designs or playful inside jokes, the finished pieces become wearable souvenirs from the evening.

Pressed Flower Art Pressed flowers instantly make any craft feel elegant. Arrange dried blooms and leaves into bookmarks, greeting cards, framed artwork, or personalized gift tags. It’s a slow, mindful activity

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that’s surprisingly relaxing and beautiful enough to display long after the evening ends.

Host a Sip & Sketch Challenge No artistic skills required. Write a collection of funny drawing prompts, such as “your dream holiday,” “your pet as royalty,” or “your best friend as a movie character,” and place them in a bowl.

Give everyone ten minutes to sketch before revealing the masterpieces. The fun comes from

seeing how differently everyone interprets the same prompt.

Set the mood with a great playlist, a grazing board, and your favorite drinks, then let the conversation flow as naturally as the creativity. At the end of the night, everyone goes home with more than a handmade keepsake. They leave with new memories, plenty of laughs, and the perfect excuse to do it all again.

Photo by Eric Prouzet on Unsplash.

STYLE WITHOUT SHOPPING

The most interesting wardrobes aren’t built on what’s new. They’re built on knowing what you already have By bazaar staff

The urge to shop when you feel like you have nothing to wear is one of the great retail lies. Most of the time, the problem isn’t the wardrobe. It’s the relationship with it. A little attention paid to what’s already there tends to reveal more than a shopping trip ever could.

Do the audit Take everything out. Not to Marie Kondo it, not to make three piles with labels, just to see what you actually own. Most people are surprised. There are things at the back of the wardrobe that were good purchases, still fit well, and have been invisible for two years simply because they got buried. The audit isn’t a chore.

It’s reconnaissance.

Learn your actual uniform Look at what you reach for every single week without thinking.

That is your real style, not your aspirational style, not what you bought for a version of your life that hasn’t materialized. Once you know your uniform, you can start building around it intentionally rather than accumulating things that never quite connect.

Treat alterations as an investment A hem that’s two centimeters too long, a waist that needs taking in, a sleeve that sits slightly wrong: these 42

small fits are why good clothes stay unworn. A tailor costs a fraction of a new piece and can transform something you already own into something you’ll actually reach for. Kuwait has no shortage of good tailors, and the results are almost always worth it.

Relearn proportion and layering The same five pieces worn differently read as ten different outfits if you understand proportion. A longer shirt under a shorter jacket. Trousers worn higher. A scarf used as a belt. These are not tricks so much as a closer reading of what clothes can do when you’re paying attention.

Borrow before you buy Before purchasing something for a specific occasion or to fill a perceived gap, ask whether you can borrow it first. A friend’s blazer for one event, a bag for a trip. If you wear it and feel nothing particularly strong, you’ve saved yourself the purchase. If

you can’t stop thinking about it, you’ve confirmed the buy is worth making.

The one-in-one-out rule Not as a minimalism exercise, but as a clarity one. When something new comes in, something goes out. It forces a genuine assessment of whether the new thing is actually better than what it’s replacing, which is a question most impulse purchases can’t answer honestly.

Reframe what “new” means Wearing something you haven’t worn in a year feels new. Styling something differently feels new. Giving a piece a context it hasn’t had before feels new. Novelty in a wardrobe doesn’t require a purchase. It usually just requires a little more imagination than scrolling a product page.

Photo by Sarah Brown on Unsplash.

Styling and grooming play a crucial role in a man’s overall personality and self-confidence.

In today’s fast-paced world, personal appearance speaks volumes, often serving as the first impression in both personal and professional settings.

PORSCHE CENTRE KUWAIT NAMED 2025 IMPORTER OF THE YEAR FOR MIDDLE EAST REGION Behbehani Motors Company awarded the region’s top honor for the third time, following previous wins in 2021 and 2022 By bazaar staff

In the world of luxury automobiles, true distinction is measured not merely by sales figures, but by the ability to create enduring relationships, deliver exceptional experiences, and embody the values of one of the world’s most revered marques. It is this philosophy that has once again placed Porsche Centre Kuwait at the pinnacle of regional achievement.

Operated by Behbehani Motors Company, Porsche Centre Kuwait has been named Porsche Importer of the Year 2025 for the Middle East region, securing one of the German manufacturer’s most prestigious honors. The recognition marks the third time the Kuwaiti retailer has received the distinction, following previous victories in 2021 and 2022, underscoring a sustained commitment to excellence that few in the region can rival.

The award recognizes the retailer’s exceptional performance across all areas of the business. Judging criteria include customer 44

satisfaction, service quality, sales innovation, team efficiency, and the ability to cultivate longterm loyalty to both retailer and brand.

Awarded annually to the most outstanding Porsche partner in the region, the title is reserved for retailers that excel across every aspect of the business—from customer satisfaction and aftersales care to innovation, operational performance, and long-term brand loyalty. For Porsche Centre Kuwait, the accolade reflects years of meticulous attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

At the heart of this achievement lies an

unwavering focus on the customer journey.

Every interaction, from initial consultation and vehicle configuration to ownership support and specialist servicing, is carefully curated to deliver a seamless and highly personalized experience.

The result is a remarkably loyal clientele, many of whom return time and again to expand their collections, upgrade their vehicles, and deepen their connection with the Porsche brand.

This award follows a standout year for Porsche Centre Kuwait. Other 2025 accolades included Pre-Owned Sales Excellence Award, the Porsche Aftersales World Challenge for Bodyshops, and

Customer Prospect Management Essential Cockpit, as well as the Porsche Aftersales World Challenge. Together, these achievements reinforce the centre’s reputation as one of the most accomplished Porsche operations globally.

A key contributor to this success is the retailer’s landmark facility in Shuwaikh. Widely recognized as the largest Porsche showroom in the Middle East and North Africa, the destination exemplifies the modern luxury retail experience.

Sophisticated digital technologies, immersive displays, personalized consultation areas, and elevated hospitality services combine to create an environment that reflects Porsche’s DNA of innovation, performance, and precision.

Beyond showcasing the latest models from Stuttgart, the centre offers discerning clients access to some of Porsche’s most exclusive personalization programs. Through Paint to Sample and Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, owners can commission highly bespoke vehicles tailored to their individual tastes, creating truly unique expressions of automotive craftsmanship. Every detail, from color palettes and interior materials to bespoke finishes and design elements, can be refined to reflect the personality and lifestyle of the owner.

The centre’s commitment to automotive heritage is equally impressive. As one of only three officially appointed Porsche Classic Partners across the Middle East and Africa, Porsche Centre Kuwait occupies a rare position within the global Porsche network. This designation recognizes specialized expertise in preserving and maintaining classic Porsche models, ensuring that the marque’s rich legacy continues to thrive for future generations of enthusiasts and collectors.

[Continued...]

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The past year has also witnessed growing engagement from customers, reflected in increased showroom visits, highly personalized consultations, and a resurgence of exclusive events and curated brand experiences. These initiatives have further strengthened the emotional connection between Porsche and its clientele, transforming ownership into a lifestyle defined by passion, performance, and exclusivity.

Commenting on the achievement, Hany Marie, General Manager of Porsche Centre Kuwait, said: “This recognition means a great deal to our entire team because it reflects the work happening every day across every department. To receive this award again, alongside several global Porsche achievements this year, is something we are incredibly proud of. It motivates us to continue raising the standard for our customers and further strengthening the Porsche experience in Kuwait.”

As luxury consumers increasingly seek meaningful experiences alongside exceptional products, Porsche Centre Kuwait continues to demonstrate what modern luxury retail should aspire to be. Through innovation, service excellence, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, it has established itself as one of the region’s most influential automotive destinations.

This latest recognition is more than an award— it is a testament to a vision that places excellence at the centre of every customer interaction. In doing so, Porsche Centre Kuwait continues to define the benchmark for luxury automotive retail in the Middle East while reinforcing Kuwait’s standing on the global Porsche stage.

For all things Porsche, follow @porschecentrekuwait on Instagram.

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7 STUDIO GHIBLI MOVIES TO WATCH ON A SUMMER NIGHT

Whimsical adventures, unforgettable characters, and just the right amount of magic for a cozy evening in.

By bazaar staff

There are few things more comforting than a Studio Ghibli film on a warm summer evening. Whether you’re watching with family, friends, or curled up with a bowl of popcorn on your own, these beautifully animated classics have a way of slowing time. From magical forests and seaside towns to floating castles and unforgettable friendships, here are seven Ghibli films that are perfect for your next movie night.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988) Gentle, heartwarming, and endlessly charming, My Neighbor Totoro follows two sisters who discover magical creatures after moving to the countryside.

It’s a celebration of childhood wonder, nature, and imagination, making it one of the studio’s most beloved films.

Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989) Thirteen-year-old witch Kiki leaves home to begin her year of independence in a charming seaside town. Filled with sunny streets, flying adventures, and messages about finding confidence, it’s the ultimate feel-good summer film.

Ponyo (2008) Inspired by The Little Mermaid, this colorful adventure tells the story of a magical goldfish who dreams of becoming human. With its ocean setting, playful energy, and vibrant animation, Ponyo feels like summer captured on screen.

Whisper of the Heart (1995) A beautifully understated coming-of-age story about first love, creativity, and discovering your passions. Set in suburban Tokyo during a long summer, it’s one of Studio Ghibli’s most relatable and quietly inspiring films.

The Secret World of Arrietty (2010) Based on The Borrowers, this enchanting story follows a tiny family living beneath the floorboards of a country house. The lush gardens, peaceful pace, and imaginative perspective make it a wonderfully cozy watch.

Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) Magic, romance, and breathtaking animation come together in this fantasy classic. While it explores themes of courage and identity, its whimsical world, unforgettable characters, and iconic walking castle make it one of Ghibli’s most rewatchable films.

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011) Set in 1960s Yokohama overlooking the sea, this nostalgic coming-of-age drama is filled with warm 48

sunsets, vintage charm, and gentle romance. It’s a quieter Ghibli film, perfect for winding down after a long summer day.

Whether you’re revisiting a favorite or discovering one for the first time, Studio Ghibli’s films remind us that magic often lives in the

smallest moments. All that’s left is to dim the lights, make a bowl of popcorn, and let the adventure begin.

Photo by Branden Skeli on Unsplash.

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GIVE YOUR LOVED IKEA PIECES A SECOND LIFE WITH THE BUYBACK SERVICE ®

Discovering how IKEA is by your side for a better life through sustainable home transformations By bazaar Staff

We all know the rhythm of a home. It is rarely static. A space that once served as a quiet sanctuary for reading might naturally transform into a bustling home office as your career demands change. That nursery you meticulously designed with your first child will eventually need to evolve into a space that reflects the personality of a growing teenager. Our homes are living, breathing extensions of who we are, and as our lives change, the spaces we inhabit must change with us.

It is easy to view the furniture that no longer fits

challenge of moving these large items meant that

with the launch of their new Buyback service.

these evolving chapters as clutter. We often feel a

furniture often stayed hidden in storage or was

This is not about letting go of your past, but

sense of hesitation when it comes time to move

discarded before its time. But what if the most

about embracing the future of your home. It is a

on from a well-loved bookshelf, a sturdy dining

sustainable way to move forward was to ensure

thoughtful, intentional way to ensure your well-

table, or a desk that supported years of creative

your furniture kept its journey going elsewhere?

loved pieces find a new chapter, effectively closing

work. We know these pieces are still in good

the loop on home essentials and proving that

condition, but they simply no longer fit the story

A new chapter for your cherished pieces

we are telling at home. In the past, the logistical

IKEA is changing the narrative of home ownership

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quality furniture is meant to last.

The IKEA Buyback service offers customers a simple, practical way to extend the life of their furniture while making more sustainable choices at home. Through this service, you can return your gently used, fully assembled IKEA furniture to IKEA in exchange for an in-store voucher.

Designed to support circular living, this service gives pre-loved pieces a second life.

Each item is assessed to ensure it meets quality standards, so it can continue to be used and enjoyed in another home. So rather than letting well-loved IKEA furniture go to waste, customers are encouraged to bring it back at any time of the year. In return, you receive a voucher to spend in-store, while your furniture is prepared for resale - helping reduce waste and supporting more sustainable everyday living. It’s a straightforward way to refresh your space responsibly, while knowing your furniture continues its journey beyond your home.

IKEA makes it easier with pick-ups Large furniture can be difficult to move, and it’s often this challenge that leads people to hold onto items longer than they need, even when they are no longer in use.

To address this, IKEA has expanded the Buyback service with a convenient pick-up option, making the process more accessible and convenient. By removing the need to transport bulky items yourself, the service supports customers in taking part in circular living without added effort or disruption to their routine.

The Buyback pick-up service is designed to simplify the experience: no heavy lifting, no complex coordination; just a straightforward way to return your furniture.

By integrating pick-up into the service, IKEA helps turn what could be a time-consuming task into a smooth and practical solution. It reflects a simple idea: that making more sustainable choices at home should be easy, accessible, and fit naturally into everyday life.

A win-win for everyone With the Buyback service, it’s simple: you return your furniture, receive a voucher, and use it to bring something new into your home. At the same time, someone else gets the chance to take home your pre-loved piece and enjoy it for its quality and design.

The in-store voucher helps make your next purchase more affordable, whether you are refreshing a space or adding something you’ve been wanting for a while. And your furniture continues its life in another home, where it can still be used and appreciated.

It’s a practical, everyday cycle that reflects what IKEA stands for: good quality products that are made to last, and a better way of living where nothing goes to waste.

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A seamless and easy process For those ready to start their next home chapter, the process is designed to be clear and transparent.

Most IKEA furniture in good, sturdy condition is eligible for buyback. You begin by visiting the IKEA Kuwait website to complete an online form where you will provide details and photos of the furniture to receive an initial quotation. The final assessment will be completed with an IKEA expert team member.

You can choose to bring the item to the store yourself or take advantage of the at-home assessment and pick-up service for a completely hands-off experience. After the final evaluation by an IKEA expert, your store voucher will be issued, ready for you to use on your next home improvement project.

We are moving towards a more thoughtful way of living at home, where the things we own are valued and made to last. The Buyback service offers a simple way to take part in this, helping you pass on furniture you no longer need while keeping your own space fresh and relevant.

Your home is always evolving, and so are the pieces within it. By giving your well-loved furniture a second life, you allow it to continue being used and appreciated in another home, while making room for what suits you now.

It’s a cycle that supports better use of resources, benefits others, and makes everyday living more mindful.

That’s what it means to have IKEA by your side - making it easier to create a better life at home.

Ready to start your next chapter? Scan the QR code below to learn more about the Buyback service, check the eligibility of your furniture, and discover how you can begin your journey toward a more sustainable home today.

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bazaar books

THE MORTONS

THE BEWITCHING

By Justine Larbalestier & Scott Westerfeld, Crime Thriller

By Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Horror

Meet the Mortons: a wealthy, sophisticated family for whom murder is not merely a crime but a legacy. Behind their impeccable manners, vintage fashion, and carefully cultivated image lies a dynasty built on violence, where homicide is treated as both tradition and business. As loyalties shift and family secrets emerge, the novel explores power, privilege, and the corrosive effects of inherited corruption. Darkly comic and psychologically sharp, this adult collaboration from Larbalestier and Westerfeld examines what happens when family bonds are forged through bloodshed rather than love.

THE LAST RESORT: A CHRONICLE OF PARADISE, PROFIT, AND PERIL AT THE BEACH

By Sarah Stodola, Nonfiction/Travel

Spanning multiple generations and timelines, this atmospheric novel follows three women connected by witchcraft, mysterious disappearances, and a lingering supernatural threat. In 1990s New England, graduate student Minerva researches a little-known horror author and uncovers disturbing links to her own family history. Her investigation leads back to earlier generations, where dark folklore, unexplained tragedies, and ancient magic intertwine. Moving between Mexico and Massachusetts, the novel blends gothic horror, family history, and folklore into a haunting exploration of memory, inheritance, and the dangers that can persist across decades.

HOW WE GROW UP: UNDERSTANDING ADOLESCENCE

By Matt Richtel, Nonfiction/Science

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Matt Richtel explores one of the most transformative periods of human development: adolescence.

Drawing on the latest research in neuroscience, psychology, and biology, he examines how the teenage brain develops, why adolescents think and behave the way they do, and how modern challenges influence their growth.

Through a combination of scientific insight and real-world stories, the book sheds light on the emotional, social, and cognitive changes that shape the journey from childhood to adulthood. Thoughtful and accessible, it offers a deeper understanding of a stage of life often misunderstood.

In this sweeping exploration of global beach culture, travel writer Sarah Stodola examines how the modern beach resort became one of the world’s most influential and lucrative industries. Blending firsthand reporting, history, and cultural analysis, she travels from Monte Carlo and Fiji to Miami Beach and Bali, investigating the economic, environmental, and social consequences of tourism. Along the way, she explores issues ranging from overdevelopment and climate change to the impact of resorts on local communities. Thought-provoking and deeply researched, the book considers the future of coastal travel as rising seas and environmental pressures threaten the very idea of paradise.

SEA OF CHARMS

PRINCE OF SWORDS

By Sarah Beth Durst, Fantasy

By Elise Kova, Fantasy Romance

Set in the enchanting world of The Spellshop, this standalone fantasy follows a young woman whose life becomes intertwined with powerful magic, hidden secrets, and the unpredictable forces that shape both destiny and community. Against a backdrop of coastal charm and spellcraft, she must navigate new responsibilities, unexpected relationships, and challenges that threaten the fragile balance of the world around her.

Blending warmth, adventure, and imaginative world-building, the novel explores belonging, resilience, and the transformative power of finding one’s place among people who become family.

Source: Goodreads.com 54

The second installment in the Arcana Academy series follows Clara Graysword as she becomes one of the most wanted people in Oricalis. Hunted and running out of options, she encounters the mysterious Worldkeepers, a secretive order that may hold the key to changing her fate. At the same time, her connection to Prince Kaelis, the ruthless headmaster of Arcana Academy, grows increasingly complicated as destiny, desire, and dangerous secrets draw them closer together. Set against a backdrop of tarot magic, political intrigue, and looming conflict, the novel explores loyalty, power, and the sacrifices required to change the course of a world.

Fuel Every Halftime with a Bold, Flavor-Packed

MATIC BOWLS

Scan the Menu

A WORLD OF TALENT, UNITED BY CARE Meet The People Behind the Moments

at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait al Burj Alshaya By bazaar staff

At Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya, the moments guests remember most are often shaped by people. A warm welcome.

A thoughtful detail. A perfectly crafted pastry. A restorative treatment. A word of encouragement in the gym. These moments may feel effortless, but behind each one is a team member bringing their own story, talent and care to the experience.

Across the hotel, our people come from different countries, cultures and professional paths. Some found their way to hospitality through craft. Others through movement, storytelling, sport or wellness. Together, they reflect what has always been at the heart of Four Seasons: genuine care, delivered with warmth, intention and a deep respect for people.

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Senan Bienvenue Boko For Senan Bienvenue Boko, Head Baker at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, baking is a craft built on patience, precision and curiosity. With 10 years of culinary experience, Senan leads the bakery team with a love for innovation and a passion for helping others grow. For him, every bread, pastry and baked creation is an opportunity to bring together skill, creativity and care.

One of the most meaningful chapters in his journey took him to Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, where he completed a cross exposure with the hotel’s bakery team. Working alongside Guillaume Cabrol, Head Baker of the iconic Parisian property, gave Senan the chance to exchange ideas, learn new techniques and return to Kuwait with fresh inspiration. It was a reminder that craftsmanship is not only passed through recipes, but through people, conversations and shared passion.

Today, Senan brings that experience into the bakery at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, where his work carries both global inspiration and personal pride. His goal is simple: to create moments guests can taste, remember and feel.

Sunim Gurung Sunim Gurung brings joy into service in a way that feels natural.

Before joining luxury hospitality, she spent almost six years as a Zumba instructor, filling rooms with music, movement and energy. Her first step into hospitality came at a small non-profit café, where she worked across different roles and discovered how much she loved meeting people from different cultures.

Her journey was not always easy. During the pandemic, Sunim faced uncertainty, but she kept moving forward, working in creative and flexible ways before continuing her hospitality career in restaurants and hotels. Today, as part of the In Room Dining team at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, she brings that same warmth and positivity to the guest experience.

For Sunim, service is not only about what is delivered. It is about how people are made to feel. Kind, helpful and full of energy, she believes that even the smallest interaction can leave someone feeling cared for.

Smarika Bohara For Smarika Bohara, hospitality became a new way to connect with people. Originally from Nepal, Smarika began her career as a news anchor, where she learned how to communicate with confidence, listen with attention and share stories that mattered.

At Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, she found a different kind of storytelling. As a Guestroom Attendant, her work is expressed through quiet details, thoughtful care and the small touches that help guests feel at ease. Smarika describes Four Seasons as “a university,” a place where she continues to learn, grow and discover new strengths.

Her background in media gave her confidence and presence.

Hospitality gave her a new purpose: to create comfort, trust and a sense of belonging through the way she cares for others.

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Mohamed Hlal In The Spa, Mohamed Hlal brings the mindset of an athlete into every fitness journey. Before joining Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait as a Fitness Instructor, Mohamed’s life was shaped by discipline, high performance and international sport. He competed with the Tunisian National Team and later coached athletes across boxing and swimming.

But Mohamed’s story is not only about medals or titles. It is about what those years of focus, resilience and training allow him to give today. Who better to guide someone in the gym than someone who understands what it means to build strength, confidence and discipline from the inside out?

At Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, Mohamed brings more than fitness knowledge. He brings encouragement, structure and the calm confidence of someone who has lived the journey himself.

For guests and members, his sessions are not only about movement. They are about feeling stronger, more capable and more motivated.

Gede Erik Cahyadi Also in The Spa, Gede Erik Cahyadi brings the healing spirit of Bali to Kuwait. With more than 10 years of experience as a Spa Therapist, Erik has developed an intuitive understanding of the body and the way tension, stress and discomfort can be released through skilled, attentive care.

For Erik, no two guests are the same. Each treatment begins with listening, observing and understanding what the body needs. His strength lies in identifying pressure points and creating treatments that feel personal, restorative and deeply calming.

The moments that mean the most to him are the words guests share after a treatment, especially when they say his work feels different from anything they have experienced before. For Erik, that is the greatest reward: knowing that his care has helped someone feel lighter, calmer and restored.

Together, these five stories reflect the human side of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait. A baker inspired by Paris. A former Zumba instructor who brings joy into service. A former news anchor who found a new language of care. A champion athlete helping others discover strength. A Balinese therapist creating moments of calm and renewal.

Different backgrounds. Different talents. One shared purpose.

To make people feel genuinely cared for.

The Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya invites you to discover what makes it not just a hotel, but a legacy in the heart of Kuwait. To learn more about the hotel, follow them on Instagram @FSKuwait, or go ahead and give them a call on 22006000 to book a stay or a spa treatment.

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We Offer A Wide Range Of Select Blends To Quench Your Coffee Craving Any Time Of The Day.

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bazaar Apps

A LITTLE TO THE LEFT

AUTOMATOYS

A Little to the Left turns everyday tidying into a surprisingly relaxing puzzle game. Players sort, stack, arrange, and organize household objects into satisfying patterns while a mischievous cat occasionally disrupts the process. With more than 100 puzzles and a calm, cozy aesthetic, it transforms simple acts of organization into clever brainteasers that are both soothing and rewarding.

Automatoys challenges players to guide a ball through intricate mechanical obstacle courses filled with ramps, catapults, levers, and moving parts. Each puzzle is designed like a miniature machine, encouraging experimentation and problem-solving through simple touch controls.

The result is a tactile and satisfying experience that feels like playing with a collection of beautifully crafted digital toys.

SANDSHIP

STARDEW VALLEY

Set in a post-apocalyptic science-fiction world, Sandship combines factory building, automation, and resource management into a surprisingly deep strategy experience. Players control a massive roaming factory known as a Sandship, designing production lines, optimizing systems, and uncovering the mysteries of a fallen civilization. It is ideal for players who enjoy planning, efficiency, and watching complex systems come together.

One of the most beloved farming games ever created, Stardew Valley begins with an abandoned farm and gradually unfolds into a rich life simulation filled with farming, fishing, mining, crafting, and community building. Its openended design allows players to progress at their own pace, creating a relaxing experience that balances creativity, exploration, and meaningful relationships with the residents of Pelican Town.

BABA IS YOU

THERE IS NO GAME: WRONG DIMENSION

Baba Is You is a puzzle game built around an ingenious concept: the rules themselves can be changed. By moving word blocks around each level, players can alter how objects behave, redefine goals, and completely transform the puzzle. The result is one of the most inventive puzzle games of the past decade, constantly rewarding creativity and unconventional thinking.

What begins as a game insisting that it is not a game quickly becomes a clever, fourth-wallbreaking adventure filled with puzzles, humor, and unexpected surprises. Constantly playing with player expectations, it jumps between genres, styles, and ideas while maintaining a sharp sense of comedy. Inventive, charming, and genuinely funny, it remains one of the most original mobile gaming experiences available.

play.google.com itunes.apple.com 60

X

‫رهشيال التيـه‬ ‫تحـضــر بحـب‬

RAHSHILA LATTE Made with heart

‫جديد‬

New

GAZOO RACING DEFENDS HOME TURF A podium sweep with 1-2-3-4 Rally Japan Win By bazaar staff

GAZOO Racing World Rally Team (GR-WRT) secured a landslide 1-2-3-4 finish at Rally Japan, with Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin taking victory in the No. 33 Toyota GR YARIS Rally1. They were joined by teammates Sébastien Ogier and Vincent Landais (No. 1) in second, Sami Pajari and Marko Salminen (No. 5) in third, as well as Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston (No. 18) in fourth to complete a total podium sweep at Toyota’s iconic home event.

The result marks the fourth victory for the Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 in five editions of Rally Japan held in Toyota City and comes in what is expected to be the final appearance of the current Rally1 regulations on Japanese roads before new regulations are introduced in 2027.

Akio Toyoda, GR-WRT Chairman, commented: “Elfyn, Scott, congratulations on your third Rally Japan victory! You were incredibly fast on the autumn roads we drove on until last year, and you were just as fast on the fresh green roads this time. You were also the fastest when we drove here together after Rally Japan a few years ago. And you are the only driver who has won so many times right 62

in front of my eyes. I think that means you and me make a great combination as well. Thanks also to Seb and Vincent and to Sami and Marko, the team secured a fantastic podium sweep.

Toyoda added: “In previous years, Rally Japan marked the end of the season and a chance to catch our breath. But things are different now. We are only at the halfway point of the season, and from here on, the calendar is filled with demanding gravel rallies. To everyone on the team, thank you for your hard work so far—and please keep pushing. We still have a long and challenging gravel road ahead!”

Held on the twisting, forest-covered roads of the Aichi and Gifu prefectures, Rally Japan took place

in warmer temperatures than previous editions following its move from November to late May, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

The narrow mountain roads presented a different challenge for crews, cars, and tyres throughout the event.

Evans and Martin excelled once again, particularly on the event’s iconic Isegami’s Tunnel stage, where they made the most of their position at the front of the road order to build an early lead.

Pursued by teammates over the following days, they went on to secure victory and claim Evans’ third Rally Japan win in four years, his 13th career WRC victory, and his 50th WRC podium finish.

Ogier and Landais, winners of Rally Japan in 2025, secured second place overall, finishing 12.8 seconds behind the winning crew. Pajari and Salminen scored their fifth podium finish in the last six rallies and their sixth top-three finish since securing their first podium at Rally Japan just six months earlier.

Competing on home roads, Katsuta and Johnston recovered well after an early setback to finish fourth overall. The duo also claimed a stage victory on the final day and secured second place in both the Power Stage and Super Sunday classifications.

With its Power Stage victory at Rally Japan, the Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 has now achieved 50 consecutive stage wins on asphalt across the last three WRC rallies held on the surface. Toyota has also extended its manufacturers’ championship lead to 127 points.

Evans now leads the drivers’ championship by 20 points, while GR-WRT crews occupy the remaining four of the top five positions in the standings, with Katsuta in second, Solberg in third, Pajari in fourth, and Ogier in fifth.

Toyota’s motorsports history dates back over 60 years. Reflecting the concept that ‘Roads build people and cars,’ Toyota has competed in a wide range of motorsport disciplines worldwide.

Its major successes, achieved under the most extreme conditions, together with the hard-won knowledge and technical insights they have yielded, continue to serve as the foundation for building ‘ever-better’ cars. GAZOO Racing competes in top-level motorsport categories such as the FIA World Rally Championship, as well as in customer motorsport activities using production vehicles.

Round eight of the 2026 FIA WRC is Acropolis Rally Greece (June 25-28), held on rocky mountain roads and in high summer temperatures. The rally’s legendary reputation and demanding conditions combine to create a tough challenge for vehicles, tires, and drivers alike.

For more information and the latest news visit toyotagazooracing.com.

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bazaar techno

LOGITECH MOBI FOLD

XBOX SERIES X25 LIMITED EDITION

POLAROID GO GENERATION 3

The Logitech Mobi Fold rethinks the traditional travel mouse with a clever folding design that transforms it from a pocket-sized accessory into a full-featured wireless mouse in seconds. Created for mobile workers and frequent travelers, it offers a more ergonomic alternative to a laptop trackpad while remaining remarkably compact when stored.

Compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux, it balances portability with everyday practicality. Available in several colors, including Lilac, the Mobi Fold brings a fresh and stylish approach to productivity on the move.

To celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the original Xbox, Microsoft has unveiled a special edition of its flagship Xbox Series X console and matching wireless controller. Finished in the brand’s iconic translucent green, the collection pays tribute to the look that defined the first generation of Xbox hardware. Subtle details, including a green-illuminated power button, further reinforce the nostalgic design. Blending modern gaming performance with a striking retro aesthetic, the limited-edition release is a fitting celebration of one of gaming’s most recognizable consoles.

The Polaroid Go Generation 3 continues the brand’s mission of making instant photography more portable and accessible. Compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand, it captures and prints images on Polaroid’s smaller Go-format film while introducing new features aimed at creative users. A built-in selfie mirror, self-timer, enhanced flash, and double-exposure mode make it easier to experiment with portraits and group shots.

Available in a range of vibrant colors, it combines nostalgic charm with modern convenience for a new generation of photographers.

NOBLE AUDIO OSPREY

KEYBOARD 81 PRO SMART MECHANICAL FAIRPHONE 6 KEYBOARD The Fairphone 6 takes a different approach to

The Noble Audio Osprey brings many of the brand’s high-end audio ambitions to a more accessible pair of wireless earbuds. Featuring a hybrid dualdriver design that combines a 10mm dynamic driver with a custom balanced armature, it aims to deliver a detailed and well-balanced listening experience across the frequency range. Support for LDAC enables high-resolution wireless audio streaming, while active noise cancellation and transparency modes provide flexibility for different environments. Compact and feature-rich, the Osprey offers an appealing entry point into Noble Audio’s audiophile-inspired lineup.

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The Keyboard 81 Pro brings artificial intelligence directly into a mechanical keyboard, blending premium typing hardware with productivity-focused software features. Designed for professionals and power users, it integrates AI tools that can assist with writing, summarizing, translating, and managing tasks without constantly switching between applications. Beyond its smart capabilities, it retains the tactile experience enthusiasts expect from a mechanical keyboard, with customizable switches, premium materials, and wireless connectivity. The result is a device that functions as both a high-end keyboard and a productivity hub for modern workflows.

smartphones, prioritizing repairability, longevity, and sustainability without sacrificing modern features. Designed with a modular construction, it allows users to replace key components such as the battery, display, and cameras using basic tools, extending the device’s lifespan well beyond that of a typical smartphone. It is also IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, a rarity among repairable phones. Combining durability, ethical sourcing, and long-term software support, it offers a compelling alternative to the annual upgrade cycle.

THE PERFECT ICE COFFEE BREAK!

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PACK SMART WITH XCITE

The Ultimate Tech Companion for Summer Escapes By bazaar Staff

Summer is the season of adventure. Whether you’re exploring a new city, relaxing on a tropical island, or embarking on a family getaway, the right technology can enhance every aspect of your journey. From staying connected and entertained to capturing unforgettable memories, today’s travel essentials go far beyond a passport and suitcase.

This season, Xcite rounds up the must-have travel tech designed to help you make the most of every escape.

Stay Connected with the Perfect Smartphone A smartphone is arguably the most important item in any traveller’s bag. It serves as your camera, map, boarding pass, travel guide, and communication hub all in one.

Leading brands such as Samsung, Apple, HONOR, and more continue to push the boundaries of innovation with advanced cameras, AI-powered features, long-lasting batteries, and seamless connectivity. Whether you’re navigating unfamiliar streets, translating a foreign language, or sharing your latest travel moments, a powerful smartphone ensures you’re always connected.

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Escape the Noise Long flights, busy airports, and crowded tourist attractions can quickly become overwhelming. Noise-cancelling headphones offer the perfect solution, creating a private space wherever your journey takes you.

Premium audio brands such as Sony, JBL, Bose, and others provide exceptional sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation, allowing travelers to enjoy their favorite music, movies, and podcasts without distraction.

Stay Powered Throughout the Journey Running out of battery while travelling is every explorer’s nightmare. Whether you’re using GPS, taking photos, or keeping in touch with loved ones, reliable power is essential.

Power banks from trusted brands including Belkin, Anker, EQ, and others help keep your devices charged throughout the day, ensuring you’re ready for every adventure without worrying about finding the nearest power outlet.

Travel in Style A successful trip starts with dependable luggage. Combining durability, functionality, and style, modern luggage is designed to make travelling easier and more enjoyable.

Brands such as American Tourister offer practical travel solutions that help keep belongings organized while providing the reliability needed for both short escapes and extended vacations.

Stay Connected Anywhere Whether you’re working remotely, streaming content, or staying in touch with family and friends, internet connectivity remains a travel essential.

Portable Wi-Fi routers from brands such as D-Link and TP-Link allow travelers to create secure and reliable internet connections wherever they go, providing convenience and peace of mind throughout their journey.

Kodak digital cameras offer an easy way to capture stunning landscapes, vibrant city scenes, and treasured family moments with clarity and detail.

Capture Every Memory Every trip is filled with moments worth remembering. While smartphones continue to deliver impressive photography capabilities, dedicated digital cameras remain a favorite for travelers looking to elevate their photography experience.

Your Summer, Upgraded Travel today is about more than reaching a destination—it’s about enjoying every moment along the way. With the right technology, travelers can stay connected, entertained, and prepared for whatever the journey brings.

From smartphones and headphones to power banks, luggage, portable Wi-Fi routers, and cameras, Xcite offers a wide range of trusted brands and innovative products designed to enhance every summer adventure.

Because the best journeys begin with the right essentials.

To stay up to date with the latest offers, monthly promotions, and exclusive contests, subscribe to the Xcite newsletter at xcite.com, shop directly at www.xcite.com, or follow Xcite on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Snapchat at @xcitealghanim, and on Facebook at XcitebyAlghanim.

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bazaar movie night

SUPERGIRL

AFFECTION

BLACK BOX

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi Cast: Milly Alcock, Eve Ridley Synopsis: When a ruthless enemy strikes close to home, Kara Zor-El is forced out of her comfort zone and into a dangerous mission that spans the stars. Reluctantly teaming up with an unlikely companion, Supergirl embarks on an interstellar journey driven by both vengeance and justice.

As the stakes grow and powerful forces stand in her way, she must confront difficult choices while discovering what it truly means to be a hero.

Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi Cast: Jessica Rothe, Joseph Cross Synopsis: Ellie is trapped by a mysterious condition that repeatedly resets her memory, leaving her unable to recognize her husband or daughter.

With each reset, fragments of another life begin to surface, blurring the line between reality and delusion. As the gaps in her memory grow more unsettling, Ellie becomes determined to uncover the truth behind her condition. Combining psychological horror with science-fiction elements, the film explores identity, memory, and the terrifying consequences of losing trust in your own mind.

Genre: Thriller Cast: Tom Brittney, Betsy-Blue English, Kaja Chan Synopsis: Vero Airlines Flight 298, traveling from New Orleans to Seattle, becomes the focus of a chilling and unexplained mystery. As strange events surrounding the flight begin to emerge, those connected to the incident find themselves drawn into a web of uncertainty, fear, and supernatural intrigue.

With answers proving elusive and the truth growing increasingly unsettling, the investigation uncovers secrets that challenge conventional explanations.

Blending suspense with paranormal elements, the film explores the terrifying consequences of an event that defies logic.

HUNGRY

KEEPER

MINIONS & MONSTERS

Genre: Thriller Cast: Tracey Bonner, Madison Davenport Synopsis: What begins as a trip through the Louisiana Bayou quickly turns into a fight for survival when a ravenous hippopotamus escapes into the wetlands. Trapped in an unforgiving landscape, a group of tourists finds itself hunted by the massive and unpredictable animal. As panic spreads and escape routes disappear, the group must work together to survive a threat unlike anything they expected. Combining creature-feature thrills with relentless suspense, the film transforms a remote wilderness into a deadly hunting ground.

Genre: Horror Cast: Tatiana Maslany, Rossif Sutherland Synopsis: A secluded cabin becomes the setting for a terrifying ordeal when a woman finds herself isolated and confronted by an unspeakable evil.

Cut off from help and forced to rely on her own instincts, she must endure mounting fear and uncertainty as a sinister presence closes in around her. Directed by Osgood Perkins, the film blends psychological tension and supernatural horror, creating an unsettling story of survival against a force that defies understanding.

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy Cast: Pierre Coffin Synopsis: The Minions take center stage in a chaotic adventure that traces their unlikely rise to Hollywood fame. After becoming movie stars and seemingly achieving everything they ever wanted, a series of disasters causes them to lose it all and accidentally unleash monsters upon the world. Faced with the mayhem they created, the mischievous yellow troublemakers must band together on a globe-spanning mission to save the planet. Packed with slapstick humor, absurd situations, and nonstop antics, the film delivers another wildly entertaining Minions adventure.

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Source: cinescape.com.kw

Super absorbent SAP Technology With anti-slip Adhesive tapes,

Because we care about pets !

PACK LIKE A PRO By bazaar staff

Whether you’re traveling solo, escaping for a weekend, or flying with the whole family, a little planning can save space, time, and unnecessary stress. Here’s how to pack smarter, not heavier.

Packing has a way of becoming emotional.

Faced with an empty suitcase, we begin imagining every possible scenario. What if it rains? What if we decide to dress up? What if I need a second pair of trainers? Before long, the suitcase is overflowing, yet somehow the one thing we actually need has been forgotten.

The secret to smart packing isn’t fitting more into your luggage. It’s taking less, but taking the right things.

Start With a Plan, Not a Suitcase Frequent travelers often follow one simple rule: pack for the trip you’re actually taking, not the one you’re imagining. That mindset immediately changes every packing decision. A city break requires different clothing than a beach holiday.

A family vacation has different priorities than a solo adventure. Once the destination, weather, and itinerary are clear, the suitcase becomes far easier to organize.

Before you pack a single item, make a list of your planned activities. Are you spending most of your time sightseeing? Will you need evening attire? Is there access to laundry facilities?

Thinking through your itinerary helps eliminate the “just in case” items that rarely leave the suitcase.

Build a Capsule Wardrobe One of the biggest mistakes people make is packing individual outfits rather than a wardrobe.

Instead of choosing ten separate looks, build a small collection of pieces that work together.

Neutral basics with two or three accent colors create dozens of combinations while taking up far less space. A lightweight shirt can become a beach cover-up during the day and dinner attire in the evening.

Shoes deserve special attention because they’re often the heaviest items in any suitcase.

Unless you’re traveling for a special event, two pairs are usually enough: one comfortable walking shoe and one smarter option. Wear the bulkier pair during the flight to save valuable luggage space.

Rolling clothes rather than folding them remains one of the simplest space-saving tricks.

Packing cubes make staying organized even easier, particularly on longer trips or when sharing luggage. Group similar items together so you’re not unpacking the entire suitcase every time you need a fresh T-shirt.

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Pack Smarter, Not More Toiletries are another area where overpacking is common. Travel-sized bottles are more than enough for most trips, and many hotels already provide everyday essentials. Decanting your favorite skincare into reusable containers lets you stick to your routine without sacrificing valuable luggage space.

Technology deserves its own pouch. Chargers, adapters, headphones, power banks, and cables have a habit of disappearing into suitcases.

Keeping everything together saves time at airport security and makes unpacking far less frustrating.

One habit seasoned travelers swear by is creating a “first 24 hours” pouch. Pack medication, travel documents, toiletries, chargers, and one change of clothes in your carry-on. If checked luggage is delayed, you’ll have everything you need until it arrives.

Traveling With Family Family trips require a little more strategy. Many parents recommend packing outfits by day instead of by child. Bundling complete outfits together makes busy mornings significantly easier, especially when traveling with younger children.

A well-stocked carry-on is equally important.

Snacks, wipes, medications, reusable water bottles, hand sanitizer, and a spare outfit can make unexpected delays far less stressful. Keeping favorite comfort items close at hand, whether it’s a stuffed toy, blanket, or bedtime book, can also help younger children settle into unfamiliar surroundings.

Entertainment should also be varied. Tablets are useful, but so are coloring books, travel games, sticker books, audiobooks, and simple card games that help break up long journeys. Rotating activities throughout the flight keeps children engaged for longer.

Packing for Solo Adventures Solo travelers often prioritize flexibility and security.

Keeping digital copies of important documents, dividing valuables between bags, and carrying a portable charger offer extra peace of mind.

A lightweight crossbody bag quickly becomes one of the hardest-working items on the trip, while a reusable water bottle and compact first-aid kit help prepare for long sightseeing days without adding much weight. If you’re planning to explore on foot, comfortable shoes and a lightweight

waterproof jacket are worth every centimeter of suitcase space.

Traveling alone also allows for more spontaneity, so avoid filling your suitcase to capacity. Leaving a little extra room makes it easier to adapt your plans or bring home local finds without needing an extra bag.

Leave Room for the Journey Home Before zipping up your suitcase, think about the return trip. Leave a little space for shopping, or pack a foldable tote that can be used for souvenirs or laundry. Bringing a separate laundry bag also makes unpacking easier once you’re home.

Finally, try one last exercise before you leave.

Remove three items from your suitcase. Chances are, you won’t miss any of them.

Travel should feel liberating, not weighed down by unnecessary baggage. A thoughtfully packed suitcase means fewer decisions, lighter airport sprints, easier hotel stays, and more time enjoying the destination itself.

After all, the best trips are remembered for the experiences collected, not the clothes left unworn at the bottom of the suitcase.

Photo by Marissa Grootes on Unsplash.

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bazaar scopes

CANCER (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

It is your season, and emotions feel clearer than they have in weeks. July encourages you to prioritize your needs without guilt. A personal goal gains momentum when you stop waiting for perfect conditions. Trust your instincts and move forward with confidence.

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 22) As your season approaches, July invites reflection before action. Take time to recharge and evaluate where your energy is being spent. An important realization helps you release unnecessary pressure. Rest now so you can step into the spotlight fully prepared.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Connections play a significant role this month. July highlights friendships, collaborations, and shared goals. Someone in your circle may offer valuable support or insight. Stay open to teamwork and remember that progress does not always have to be a solo effort.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Career and ambition move to the forefront. July rewards professionalism, consistency, and thoughtful planning. A new opportunity may emerge through work or networking. Focus on long-term growth rather than immediate results. Your efforts are building toward something meaningful.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21) July encourages expansion through learning, travel, or new experiences.

A change in perspective helps you move past a lingering concern. Stay curious and willing to explore unfamiliar territory. Growth comes from embracing what you do not yet know.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) Daily routines and wellbeing deserve extra attention this month. July is an opportunity to refine habits that support your energy and productivity.

Small adjustments can make a noticeable difference. Focus on sustainable progress rather than dramatic change.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Creativity, joy, and self-expression return to the forefront. July encourages you to spend time on what inspires and energizes you. A hobby, project, or personal passion may develop into something more meaningful. Follow what feels genuine and rewarding.

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19) Home and family matters take priority in July. You may feel drawn to strengthen your foundations, whether emotionally or practically. A decision regarding your living space or personal life brings greater stability. Invest in what helps you feel grounded.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20) July is filled with movement, conversation, and new ideas. Opportunities arrive through communication and everyday interactions. Stay organized as information flows quickly. A discussion or message could point you toward an exciting next step.

GEMINI (May 21 – Jun 20) Your focus shifts toward finances, resources, and long-term planning.

July encourages practical choices that strengthen your sense of security.

A steady approach produces better results than quick fixes. Trust your ability to build something lasting one step at a time.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) Deeper matters require your attention this month. July asks you to be honest about your priorities, commitments, and boundaries. A conversation brings clarity around a shared responsibility or emotional concern. Trust that addressing it directly creates greater freedom later.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Relationships become a focal point in July. Whether in love, friendship, or business, mutual understanding is essential. Listen carefully and communicate openly. A partnership grows stronger when expectations are clear and both sides feel heard.

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Source: wisehoroscope.org

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