bazaar September 2013

©2013 ALI CHA’ABAN

September 2013 | issue # 174 www. bazaar-magazine.com

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Intr This summer I was able to leave Kuwait for six entire weeks. I think it must be the first time in two decades that I left Kuwait for this long, due to a series of fortunate coincidences that included: a sibling’s wedding, the timing of Ramadan and Eid, and other colleagues travel plans. Let me hasten to add that in retrospect, it wasn’t a great idea to go on holiday for that long. Not because you come back and do the typical expat thing of comparing Kuwait to wherever you were on holiday, and think yourself into a miserable depressed frenzy, always forgetting that anywhere you go will always be nicer than where you live, simply because you are on holiday, but because, after six weeks of not waking up early to go to work, your brain literally starts to rust, and it takes a long time to get it back into working condition. It sort of feels like the first time you go the gym after a six month hiatus.

The bazaar team...

I tried to keep up with Kuwait’s news and events while abroad by religiously following the bazaar Facebook and Twitter pages of course, as well as a few choice blogs and websites that I differentiate from the rest. It was amusing to say the least because I realized that 75% of the news was food related. New restaurants, new cafes, new ice cream parlors, new branches of familiar places, and once Ramadan started, my Instagram became one huge, sticky, Nutella stuffed kunafa. And let’s not forget about those Cronuts! One would be forgiven for thinking that Cronuts were a Kuwaiti invention that was exported to the rest of the world, rather than the other way around.

Yasmine El Charif

The welcome-back issue of bazaar is a whopper! We are honored to introduce some really interesting artists of many different disciplines. It was amazing to get up close and personal with Ali Cha’aban, whose incredible Arabist designs star as our Sept cover, and his amazing (and often amusing) artworks which mix the traditional, the pop culture and the quirky, but which always make you think. We meet street photographer Ahmad Al Shammeri, portrait artist Ahmad Al-Dosari, and the lady behind the Je La La! line of amazing bling jewelry, Lulwa Al-Terkait. The talent pool out there really keeps us working! Other creatives should also make sure to read our piece on YourAok and get on it in order to get their talents noticed!

In this issue we also interview Anwar Jawhar, the 28-year-old Kuwaiti triathlete and join him on his journey towards the world championships. bazaar staff are still reminiscing and salivating about our latest culinary stop at Oliversan, a new Asian-inspired fusion fine-dine restaurant by the same people who brought you Maki and Zeebrgr. You must check it out! And don’t forget to read our new ‘’He-Said, She Said’’ column as, with the topic of ‘Happy Wife, Happy Life,’ there are sure to be some controversial statements!

Lastly, you will not want to miss the piece by the bazaarite who applied to go one-way to Mars in 2023 – should we worry that he is that committed to his job (or not!)?

Boss

Photographers

Ahmed El-Adly

Ahmad Al Shammeri Carmen Loren Monika Penkute Padmini Chandrasekaran Vishal Khullar

Operations Rebecca Sweetman

Business Development Ihab Mokalled

Design Padmini Chandrasekaran

Staff Writer/Social Media Staff Writer Brook McClurg

Communications Consultant Hala Y. Sharara

Editor A. Al-Duaij

Contributing Writers Abrar AlShammari Ayman Nassar B. Quershi Bibi Al-Falah Carmen Loren Craig Loomis Dr. Susannah J. Schuilenberg Fatmah Al-Qadfan Jaye Sonia Loaay Ahmed Mike Campbell Purva Grover Strawberry Girl Sumayyah Meehan Yara Al-Wazir Zainab Mirza

Syndicates and Sources LA Times MCT International MIT Review Fast Company The Japan News Tribune Media Services Daily Star USA Today Slate Washington Post Variety News Service

Printing British Industries for Printing and Packaging

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w w w. b p aw w. c o m 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).

No one likes to be dumped;

recycle me, please.

Cover Ali Cha’aban

Happy Reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

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INDEX SEPTEMBER '13

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40

36

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ALI CHA’ABAN

MARS ONE (WAY)

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LOVE/HATE: TRAVEL

JE LA LA!

We’re getting up close and personal with creative guru Ali Cha’aban. From deciphering the mainstream to raising many an eyebrow when it comes to his artistic take on modern day idioms; Ali delivers art in a format that stirs the mind and soul.

With all the hoopla over the first planned trip to Mars, we thought it only prudent to attempt to send a bazaarite to report on it. Follow our staff writer as he discovers exactly what they are looking for from these would-be astronauts.

With Aramex’s innovative concept of Shop and Ship, both users and e-commerce entrepreneurs benefit from a world of services that facilitate the endless conundrums with shopping, and selling online. Check out our interview with Hassan Mikail, Global Director of E-commerce at Aramex International.

Everybody loves to travel, but what about the parts that make it hassle? In this month’s love/hate column we highlight the best and worst of our collective vacation experience. Read on to find out why it is that we often need a vacation from our vacations!

In this installment of our series, Story of an Artisan, we bring you local talent and bling visionary Lulwa Al Terkait.

She went from designing one necklace for her wardrobe, to running one of the region’s most iconic jewelry brands.

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50 INSIDE OUT

SHAWARMA-MATIC

The band is great, the music is good, but where do we go to show everyone what they are missing out on? We show you where the music industry goes shopping to the next hottest thing in unsigned music.

And suddenly, the future arrived: upscale shawarmas begin getting served at the push of a button. A check in at Salmiya’s new Shawarma-matic proves fruitful and filling.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: ALI CHA-ABAN, p.22

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72

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YOU’RE A-OK

HE SAID; SHE SAID

TRUTH OR DARE

H&M TAKES THE RUNWAY

ANWAR JAWHAR

Networking the creative community becomes a breeze for both creative professionals and agencies alike as yourAOK provides an interactive platform that’s bridging this disconnect.

As practicing designers themselves, the people at YourAOK tell us how it works.

In the age-old battle of the sexes, the only thing that is sure is that nothing is as sure as you thought. Starting this month with the often heard premise “happy wife, happy life” our writers battle it out for bragging rights and the desk next to the A.C.

In this months Truth or Dare, we check in with the Corniche Club’s Health and Fitness manager, Michael Mullet, to get the low down on upping our strength while daydreaming of his days as a youth in Tasmania.

We’re celebrating our favorite high street brand’s debut on the runway. Presenting their autumn/winter collection at Paris Fashion week to hit the stores and online this fall, we’re here to tell you all about it while showcasing hottest looks from the H&M fall collection.

Meet this inspiring youth as triathlete Anwar Jawhar represents Kuwait at the World Championships in Las Vegas.

In this in depth-interview, we find out more about what it takes to make it all the way in the competitive field of triathlon racing.

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ALI CHA’ABAN Deciphering the mainstream by bazaar staff

Our love/hate affair with the mainstream could easily be considered as the idiom of the century.

We praise the constant quest for individualism, tricking ourselves into thinking that by boycotting everything mainstream, we’ve delivered humanity from its consumerist doom. However, if anyone were to do humanity a favor and honestly study the intricate workings of the human mind, then they would ultimately be lead to the following: what’s so wrong with embracing the mainstream for what it is. It’s made up of the old and the new, the beautiful and the ugly, and the fashionable and ‘uncool’.

We’ve all been there; our torrential relationship with what is ‘okay’ according to the mainstream, defines the values of this very generation. Mock it, love it, or even buy into it—the cultural artifacts of modern society lead us to both comply and to 22

revolt, to innovate the way in which we process knowledge, and to produce art that stirs mind and soul. Prompting this discussion, and forcing us to honestly re-examine our values, is the resounding work of 23-year-old Lebanese artist, Ali Cha’aban.

It is truly rare to encounter a mind that flawlessly portrays this relationship. With his background in communication and multimedia, he had earned himself a position at one of the most prestigious ad agencies around right upon graduating, and considers this as nothing more than an instigator to his artistic mission to further explore quirks in popular culture. Be it nontraditional or nostalgic, and everything in between, anything pertaining to the values of Middle Eastern modern society receives the Ali Cha’aban treatment.

Regionally, he’s become renowned for what he calls ‘sometimes deranged idioms and notions’

that he attempts to depict via his artwork. With an affinity for digital art, installations, stencils, graffiti and a recent self-discovery in Arabism and calligraphy, Ali looks to reel in the observer with his candor. Ali might believe that he discovered calligraphy a little too late, yet we were taken with his depiction of the common saying, “You feel me bro” in Arabic typography, that we had to turn it into our September cover. Responding positively or negatively doesn’t matter, as long as a response is achieved. His work received accolades throughout the region, and we’re sure a lot of you remember him from the street art show, ‘Some call it Noise’ back in 2010. Saudi Arabia especially celebrated the artist’s tongue-in-cheek references to Saudi youth culture via his series, ‘Don’t worry, I’ll marry you’, or swear words created out of beautiful calligraphy.

He recounts this experience as unforgettable, also counting his exhibition in Khobar as one of his favorites.

Since his time as an art director with Impact BBDO here in Kuwait, Ali has gone on to work in the Middle East and Europe. However, he remains connected to our local society via the affluent social media culture that has taken over our region in the most astonishing of ways. Currently working on the second part of the latest series, ‘Film’ Ali reinvents how we perceive vintage Arab icons, superimposing Western cultural symbols onto Eastern artists, and vice versa. We’re honored to share two pieces from this collection in this feature, with Egyptian actors Rushdi Abaza and Ismail Yasin donning emblematic New York and Los Angeles caps. We’ll leave the interpretation all up to you. Regardless of his next move, rest assured his work will be coming to a town near you, as this young soul plans to exhibit his work throughout the region.

bazaar questionnaire:

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Happiness is a state of contentment and intense joy. I’m usually content when I have successfully transferred/transformed an idea from my head into an artwork. When my message is structured in the form of art both aesthetically and physically, then I’m content.

So my idea of perfect happiness stems from when I’m fresh out of ideas and no more concepts to create, and all the visualizations that I could produce have been tackled.

What is your greatest fear?

Failure. It’s every human’s or should be every human’s greatest fear. A human without a purpose or a goal is rather soulless, in my opinion. You need the fear of failing to thrive and make something of your life. Fear is a friend that is misunderstood.

In my mind I’m trying to go places, become somebody prominent for the right reasons and not the superficial ones. I want to create artwork that would later be impacting, studied or used as an example in a classroom. Art is meant to disturb, so if you initiate a reaction from the viewer, whether good or bad, your message was successful; I fear not being able to attain that sort of degree.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

The trait that I’m in a love/hate relationship with is my ‘openness to experience’ to word it correctly. The intellectual curiosity I have for things, items and people.

It’s my best friend and worst enemy. Though it gives me the push that I need to experience new things, it is also the very kryptonite that hits me with a writer’s block. The whole battle I have within me, the curiously continued on next page...

23

inventive persona versus the cautious and soon-to-beboring one. My ideas are from usual and more than often my ‘unusual’ ideas are left scattered and not depicted which, reflects back on me in a sort of a gloomy state.

The fact that I can’t express them, too busy to express them, or skillfully unable to attend to them, translates to ‘I’ve hit rock bottom.’ In this case it’s usually my work, taking the shift from Advertising to Fashion Marketing to see if I’ll fail or succeed in that field; or the huge shift that I decided to take on with my art work, with finding myself as an Arab artist who discovered his Arabism a bit too late, and changing my modules of art from westernized pop cultures to heavy dichotomies of the Arab peninsula and now experiencing the difficulties of Arabic typography, “khatt” and calligraphy that are extremely challenging.

So yeah, curiosity killed the cat.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Sensitivity. The world, the audience, the people, have become far too sensitive for their own good. They tend to experience unpleasant emotions rather too quickly. So quick to get angry with whatever I posted/ said, annoyed, or plain hateful. What’s worse, they never seem to admit it. I’ve seen people become insulted or find my work preposterous, without even understanding the full picture, just like that. So basic-intellect and emotional instability combined, wow. Analysis and freaky sensitivity are not my cup of tea.

Which living person do you most admire?

Aside from my parents, my late-sister Rasha, may God rest her soul, her patience was admirable.

The abundance of patience she contained was mindboggling, and I inherited that level of calm and cool from her. Even though she’s not a “living person” but I do owe her a lot. Then comes my sister Yara who has always treated me as the eldest, even though she was five years older; she gave me confidence to the level of narcissism; and “I’m coo’ with that.”

What is your greatest extravagance?

Speed. S-P-E-E-D. Working at an advertising agency as soon as I graduated granted me that luxury. It creates a machine out of you. Strict deadlines and annoying clients help you become a Speedy Gonzales in the land of art. Quick… Quick… Quick… I like everything quick, I like pressure; we turn pressure into treasure.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Laugh and grow fat.

Surely you can overlook the superficial preference of this phrase and understand it’s more profound meaning. Acquire an appetite and grow fat.

When were you happiest?

No one is ever REALLY happy. But I have to say twice in my life, seeing my mom’s facial reaction at my graduation ceremony, Dad being proud of me when I brought in my first employment contract. There were like two days between those two occurrences. Got 24

...continued from previous page

hired as soon as I graduated.

Which talent would you most like to have?

DRUMS. I want to be a drummer. The chaos, the noise, I WANT THAT. Then incorporating that into my art, by adding wet paint to the drumhead and then creating splashes of paint via drum solo. Excuse my Pollock moment. Oh, and athleticism means a lot to me.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

One of my best and notorious artworks created revolves around a controversial movie topic in Saudi Arabia. The whole idea was conjured up from a simple hashtag about humorous names for fictional Saudi adult movies. It evolved into a trilogy that is yet to be completed with the first two parts sold already, one of them being owned by a very close friend of mine.

These two pieces have been discussed over and over again for touching on very sensitive topics that revolve around men promising women marriage in order to get involved physically, named “‫ ”ال تخافي حتزوجك‬and “‫اللحم‬ ‫”االبيضاملتوسط‬.

Side note: Now I’m notoriously known for publishing curse-words in national Saudi prints. Some of my artwork had swear words in them, but they were published in the newspapers regardless, because you know… art? Ha-ha.

Where would you most like to live?

Home is where I rest my head at the end of the day, being content with whatever I have accomplished. That’s a place I call home. Home is where I want to live. Home is a state of mind more than a geographical location.

The reason I say this is because I spent 2013 traveling and relocating due to my job. Spent some time in Italy, witnessed the 2nd revolution in Egypt, chilled in Dubai, traveled hours by car just to meet a client in Germany. But I miss Kuwait, my physical home and where I was born, but it’s still a big question whether I want to spend the rest of my life traveling or settling back at home.

Ali Cha’aban is totally social. You can follow him on Twitter and Instagram @Alichaaban, and Tumblr: www.alichaaban.tumblr.com.

New Season ADOLFO

truth or dare

TAZMANIAN DEVIL Michael Mullett by bazaar staff

When Michael Mullett is not busy daydreaming about his days as a youth in a small-town in Tasmania, the Australian Island just south of the mainland, he is working in his roll as Health and Fitness Manager of the Corniche Club.

A mainstay and constant of the club for the last 7 years, he cites a life-long love for health and fitness as an easy lead-in for his eventual job in the same field; he loves fitness so much that he wanted to share that same fanatic zeal with others. As a trainer, he believes that it is normally a persons lack of belief in themselves and willingness to take ownership of their lives that can be a their biggest detriment to attaining their personal goals. A natural risk taker that took this, his first international position, simply for the risk of trying something new, he likes to balance his time with his loves of music, travel, learning the guitar, and daydreaming about his potential for skydiving. With a personal motto of “you only live once, so follow your dreams” we catch up with him in time to find out that his is to eventually retire with a home in the mountains in his native homeland; a simple desire perhaps for a man driven by a want to be the best version of himself that he can be, while simultaneously helping others to do the same.

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Trouble How would you describe your mother in one word?

Amazing What is the most insane question you’ve ever been asked?

Am I from New Zealand What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Took a job here in Kuwait What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Inshallah Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

Tasmania in the Mountains/Hills.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

You only live once What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Leopard, fit and fast.

What do you miss about your childhood?

My childhood mates. All day out and about 26

causing trouble.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

Max (Mad Max) How would you describe your handshake in one word?

Solid What is the toughest part of your character?

I am very direct, don’t like to beat around the bush.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

The men of The Kokoda Trail What in the world do you least desire?

Lack of respect for the world and all inhabitants.

The world needs to be better looked after.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the

world a better place?

World lacks education and peace. With more of this we would all be a lot happier.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

I’m generally easy to get along with – I believe some people may disagree, but then again, due to my accent a lot of people don’t know what I am saying most of the time.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…” ...Love Michael Mullett can be found most days down at the gym of The Corniche Club. Feel free to stop in and talk to him about all things fitness related or email mullett@alcornicheclub.com

DESIGUAL

story of an artisan

PART IV: JE LA LA! Lulwa Al-Terkait presents a world of classy bling by bazaar staff

There’s something about the name, Je La La!, which emanates with a certain joie de vivre. Whether it’s Lulwa Al-Terkait’s desire to make sure any piece you select to wear from Je La La! elicits an admiring applause of ‘Ooh La La’s’ from bystanders, or simply this exquisite jewelry line’s very playful name. Ultimately it’s the clever mix of both, that makes owning a piece by this designer an elusive must.

An admirer of all kinds of stones and metals, Lulwa created her authentic jewelry concept after she realized that the local market is missing from the market. Coming from a Public Relations and Media background, Lulwa adds that she had to design the pieces she wore to work and social functions. She first designed a funky, silver and 18k gold plated bling bling chain that had the inscription, “L to the A” 28

written on it. This accessory addict started her small concept in 2007, and after several small exhibitions, Lulwa kicked things up a notch by establishing a fully-fledged business in 2009.

Today, Je La La! stands as an absolute trend setter. The ear cuffs collection launched in 2012 created a frenzied response from the regional and international fashion crowds, marking a milestone for the young designer. Her aim from this edgy collection is to show different sides to this much-loved trend. Envision the traditional, the minimalist, the dreamy and the modernist, using different colors and stones, ranging from classy zirconia to colorful corals.

Lulwa believes that inspiration comes from everything and anything. She might not have a specific muse, yet this Piscean resorts to her love for the seas and the skies to realize her

vision of freedom and tranquility. She states, “They are always powerful yet calm and their color no matter how the weather is, is always mesmerizing.” In addition to her passion for nature, being exposed to stones and colors from studying cultural arts of all kind from all over the world through the Internet or via traveling, reenergizes her ideas and continues to inspire her to this very moment.

Ensuring that her collections are accessible, yet still effortlessly chic, to all of her customers, Lulwa employs a lot of zirconia and silver in many of her pieces. She adds, “I always make sure that every collection I release have items with corals and pearls or turquoise, which usually give a sense of romance and culture to the piece. Not only does this help in expanding my customer base, this shows different sides of

my character and my capabilities in designing.”

On the other hand, Lulwa employs precious stones and diamonds for the select line of personalized and solitaire jewelry. This added sense of flexibility charms more customers into falling in love with her vision of fabulous, yet also affordable, bling.

What’s even more admirable about Lulwa is the mere fact that she still hasn’t pursued Je La La! full time because she loves her day time job, working in the field of Public Relations at a non profit organization that deals with children with learning difficulties. Not only so, she’s a devoted mom, and even though many people wonder how she can manage a full time job, a family, and Je La La!, she takes on the challenge in full stride.

A typical day in Lulwa’s world starts off with

emails and social media to stay updated, then she goes over the order sheets with her staff, ‘hits’ the workshop for updates, and starts revising the delivery schedule for inside and outside of Kuwait. We’re tired just typing this, yet it doesn’t even end there. After all of that, she goes on to examine stones and finalizing new designs to be implemented. Of course, all of this happens after she comes back from her day job and spends time with her children, so her day starts at the workshop in the evening.

Since the first piece of jewelry she designed for herself, Lulwa has learned that patience and commitment to self-made deadlines, does pay off. She highlights that the most important factor to ensure success is customer service, as customers will only come back this way. This bling-loving, workaholic tries her best constantly,

and never gives up on herself.

For the future, Lulwa foresees more and more ‘bling’, as Je La La! began participating in international jewelry fairs representing Kuwait as of this year. Starting off with the international jewelry exhibition in Paris, Lulwa believes that’s going to be a stepping-stone for Je La La! to compete on an international level. Besides the expansion, she is also working on releasing a new collection of hoop earrings and ear cuffs.

For more information visit www.jelala.com. You can also check out Lulwa’s latest posts on Instagram, @Jelalajewelry and Facebook: Je La La! Jewelry.

Je La La! Authentic Jewelry is found all over the GCC countries, Kuwait at Daz boutique, Oman at Minis boutique, UAE in Sauce store, Bahrain in Powder Closet and KSA in Cugini Boutique.

29

SMALLQ8.COM

Your gateway to success by bazaar staff

When asked to name some small businesses in Kuwait that have moved on to become integral pillars in our society, the candidates are truly many.

The sheer number of emerging restaurateurs, chefs, fashion designers and boutique owners, is astounding. The Insta-biz (businesses on the ever-so-powerful Instagram) is close to scary. So, if you’re a small start-up looking to get noticed, the challenges of breaking into the market can be overwhelming.

This is where Smallq8.com comes in: A website founded by Mohammad Al Jeraiwi, Hashim Bahbahani, and Mohammad Al Ali, it is completely dedicated to small business in Kuwait. Whether you’re a storeowner, or simply testing the market via an at-home business before undertaking a large investment, this is the platform for you.

As recent university graduates and small business entrepreneurs, the SmallQ8 family have closely seen and lived through the struggles and success needed to start a small business. Prior to returning to Kuwait, Hashim Bahbahani studied in the US, and saw how technology can significantly support and sustain young, small and medium businesses as he completed his studies in Finance.

Mohammad Al Jeraiwi, also a recent graduate, completed his degree in Accounting from GUST University in 2013. The third founder, Mohammad Al Ali, who is a student at Kuwait University, clearly saw the vigor, enthusiasm, and passion that many young men and women in Kuwait have for entrepreneurship and innovation. Inspired by their experiences, the team gathered to create a website that would play a pivotal role in the growth and success of small businesses in Kuwait and the Gulf.

Launched in April of this year, SmallQ8 now includes around 70 small to medium businesses from 11 different categories. From food and photography, to clothing and accessories, your next session of retail therapy is completely covered by these guys. Their end goal is to grow alongside with the small businesses they have hosted online, especially with the added factor of online retail available on the website.

According to the founders, along with many young entrepreneurs, launching a small to medium business in Kuwait is made extremely difficult due to lengthy licensing processes or extremely high rental prices for commercial spaces. Resorting to the web as a retail outlet is the common alternative to owning a brick and mortar store. As a business owner, you might think that since Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Whatsapp, are social networking tools that are easily accessible, they should do the trick for your own business - and you’re not entirely wrong.

However, it is worth noting that these platforms weren’t initially set up for business purposes, and 30

the process of selling quickly becomes a lengthy and complicated one for the business owner and customers alike. You don’t need to ditch these tools, but you can further empower your business by utilizing the services offered by SmallQ8.

Give your small business idea its own mini website by using SmallQ8’s complete online ordering system to sell products online without having to spend thousands on creating a whole website. Not only is the service free for this period of time, orders are received through email and SMS messages assuring that for the small business owner the service is affordable and convenient.

Another marketing aspect cleverly integrated is the notion of positioning. When you align your business with similar businesses, customers and online shoppers are encouraged to browse more, and ultimately shop more, from your mini-site and other people’s online stores as well. Successful positioning works. Always.

As an online shopper, how many times have you partaken in endless Instagram browsing only to find out much later that the product you wanted is ‘sold out’. Instead, products available for sale are arranged in an extremely user-friendly manner.

Not only is the website mobile friendly, so you could shop while you’re on the go, you could even pay for your goods using cash or k-net.

For the near future, the SmallQ8 family plans to provide more solutions to business owners (solving the problem of delivery, utilizing mobile technology, etc) hoping that SmallQ8 can become a one-stop solution to the many problems faced by small businesses in Kuwait. Along with the continued support of the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kuwait in terms of relaying the needs of local business owners, the team has been adamant about connecting and solving any issues these young entrepreneurs face in their day-to-day business operations.

Beyond that, they aim to expand into other GCC countries. SmallQ8 will eventually turn into “SmallGulf”, and maybe even “SmallMiddleEast”. In fact, these young entrepreneurs don’t see a reason why they can’t, one day, deliver “SmallWorld”.

Get your business involved at www.smallq8.com, or contact the owners directly at contacus@smallq8.com or by calling 9774 4342.

GIULIETTA

bazaar goes dining

OLIVERSAN A fine affair in contemporary Asian fusion by bazaar staff

From the culinary gurus behind Maki and Zeebrgr, Oliversan epitomizes contemporary fusion Asian cuisine. Located in Burj Jassem, Oliversan achieves what many other fusion concepts fail to fulfill. Using fine Asian ingredients to present a cuisine that is familiar to local tastes, Oliversan delivers unprecedented flavors in the form of original combinations that surprise and tantalize the senses, from the Mongolian Ostrich to a Fusion Shoyo Stir-Fried beef fettuccine.

Constantly wishing to defy the expected, the owners assert that the inspiration for realizing the Oliversan concept has been there for years. After extensive research, tastings, and sourcing of the finest and freshest ingredients, the concept of Oliversan materialized with the assistance of the wonderful award-winning Chef Louis Kenji Huang.

Considering himself as a melting pot of different cultures, Chef Louis says his style is global by 32

ingredients, yet local to tastes. His vision is derived from both his Chinese and Japanese origins, and having lived and worked in the most innovative foodie towns of Tokyo, New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. In doing so, he conceived a menu for Oliversan that is truly inimitable by nature, concocting the flavors of Asia in a format that would please even the most selective dining connoisseurs, and one that we simply couldn’t wait to sample.

Upon arrival, you’re immediately swept away with the cozy interior design, showcasing the silhouettes of hats of bygone eras and different cultures. Reviving traditional elements in a modern light, the mood is all things modern yet calm at Oliversan. From the elegant sofas, subdued lighting, to the tasteful music, the ambience is one that invites you to make sure you’ll be regularly coming back to Oliversan.

After an enlightening conversation with Chef

Louis, we waited for our selection of starters to arrive. Preceding our appetizers, we were invited to nibble on a small serving of pickled ginger. This was followed by the Oliversan Tangerine Seafood Soup, an inventive take on a spiced sour soup, this is served in an actual tangerine. Not only is its presentation aromatic, its zesty contents include prawns, coriander, tofu, and spring onions, with the highlighted special pepper yuzo sauce. After we’ve warmed up with the soup, the Rice Noodle Salad with Crispy Spring Roll offers a refreshing mix of textures, and temperatures. The freshly cut lettuce assortment, with cold rice noodles and crispy vegetable spring rolls is drizzled in a slightly sweet, Oliversan sesame dressing. Then we tried the scrumptious Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms, stuffed with prawns and served with sweet chili sauces. Think of this fabulous starter as a low carb alternative to Shrimp on

Toast (also available on the menu), using a juicy mushroom instead of bread.

The Peking Duck platter is exactly how you wish it to be, crispy on the outside, and perfectly juicy on the inside. Served with special pancakes, cucumbers and spring onions, a hoisin sauce with a delightful kick, we think this is the ultimate sharing platter, and an Oliversan signature, to enjoy amongst friends.

Upon sampling the food at Oliversan, one cannot fail to notice the select ingredients incorporated that deliver these astounding flavors. To name only a few, these include Oolong tea leaves, fresh Bok Choy, exotic mushrooms that are bursting with flavors and Thai basil.

These tie in beautifully with the dishes we chose for our main course, such as the Mongolian Beef Tenderloin or the Braised Short Ribs with Oolong Tea-Leaves. The first, a spectacular rendition of a classic Asian dish, delivers the juiciest slices

of tenderloin, drizzled in a slightly spiced space with spring onions and chili. Ribs may be served Western style, yet the oolong tealeaf rub elevates the flavors of the beef to a whole new level. For chicken lovers, the Spicy Chicken with Bok Choy is a must, as the chicken breast pieces are served with diced yellow and green courgettes. Make sure that your main course is accompanied by at least one order of Oliversan’s signature wokfried rice. Slightly coconut-y, with finely diced spring onions and Bok Choy make for a welcome addition of texture. The signature classic ChowMeins are also not to be missed, and vary from mixed, vegetable, chicken, beef or prawns.

For dessert, Chef Louis took us on yet another journey of culinary fusion, tantalizing us with the Hawaiian Malasada—delicious, moist on the inside, crispy on the outside, fried donut balls with aromatic fresh vanilla bean ice cream. If you hadn’t tried this yet, you must! These malasadas

are officially on our ‘most addictive desserts in K-town’ list. Other dessert favorites include the Peanut Butter Dome, along with the Chocolate Crunchy Mousse.

After a lengthy meal, filled with unforgettable favors, many of which we had the opportunity to try for the first time, one cannot deny the notion that this inspired new concept will quickly become a household favorite amongst locals.

Oliversan delivers the flavors of fine fusion with unbeatable flair.

Founded by Maki Group, Oliversan has established a new home for contemporary Asian fusion cuisine right in the heart of Kuwait. Oliversan is located on the mezzanine floor at Burj Jassem in Kuwait City.

For reservations or inquiries please call 2290 1051 or 6625 4159. Check out: www.oliversan.net for more information, and follow them on Instagram: @oliversanrestaurant.

33

SAILING AWAY

A Taste of Sailing in Kuwait

by Carmen Loren

Kuwait is a nation of water babies. We swim and jet ski, fish and scuba dive, and on any given day of the year Kuwait’s coastal waters are littered with boats, bobbing up and down like so many toys in a giant bathtub... and now that the bathwater is cooling with the coming of autumn, it’s time to get out and do some sailing.

Considering the huge stretch of sparkling blue on our doorstep, and the varying degrees of breeze that we enjoy throughout the year, it’s actually a bit shocking that more people don’t own sailboats in Kuwait. I understand that boys here like their toys big, fast, and powerful, but sailing has not only played a pivotal role in the development of human civilization (both as a means of obtaining food, and as a means of travel, trade, and exploration) – it has evolved into one of the most challenging, hightech, and competitive sports in the world.

Thanks to its rich maritime heritage, sailing and Kuwait share a very special relationship.

It is in Kuwait that archaeologists discovered a painted disc dating back to 5000 B.C. decorated with what is considered to be the oldest depiction of a sailboat. One does not, however, need to look thousands of years into the past in order to appreciate the importance of sailing to this region.

One needs only to visit the Scientific Centre’s Dhow Harbour and its beautifully preserved Fateh-el-Khair (the only surviving Kuwaiti sailing ship from the pre-oil era) to realize that two of Kuwait’s primary pre-oil economies, fishing and pearl diving, were dependant not on high-horsepower motors, but on billowing sails.

For better or for worse things change, and today I have yet to see a dhow under sail. I am however glad to be part of a growing community of sailors centred mostly around local sailing clubs such as the Kuwait Offshore Sailing Association (KOSA).

Did you ever spot a sailboat near Al Kout, colorful spinnaker stretched out like a belly full of wind?

Operating out of the Fahaheel Sea Club, KOSA actively promotes the sport, both on the water and at events such as the British Business Forum’s annual exhibitions; more importantly, it offers those interested in sailing an ideal opportunity to get out on the water. So if you think you must own a sailboat in order to sail in Kuwait, think again.

Whether you already know how to sail, want to learn to sail, or just need a change of scenery, KOSA can help you realize your ambitions (and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg, either!). In fact, if you’re not sure whether you even like sailing, you can try it for free during their annual ‘Taste of Sailing’ weekends.

A quick look at sailing news over the past few years reveals a resurgence of GCC interest in the region’s sailing roots. A closer look at Kuwaiti sailing news over the past twelve months reveals 34

consistently strong performances by local sailors in a number of regattas hosted by the Kuwait Sea Sports Club at Messilah Beach. In the 7th Kuwait International Open Regatta (December), the Kuwait International Open Laser Regatta (April), and the Kuwait International Catamaran Regatta (May) it was the locals, both Kuwaiti and expatriate, who left the competition floundering in their wake.

To capitalize on this renewed interest in a pursuit as old as time itself, many sailing clubs are concentrating their efforts on introducing the younger generations to sailing (both as a leisure activity and as a competitive sport). At the moment, unfortunately, Kuwait is behind its neighbours in this regard. I have had the opportunity to visit sailing clubs in both Bahrain and Oman, and was greatly impressed with all they have achieved. Oman Sail,

in particular, is in my mind the model of what a Gulf sailing club should (and could) be, devoting equal amounts of passion to their youth sailing school and their successful bids in the world of competitive yachting. And let us not forget that just last year, Abu Dhabi entered a boat in the prestigious and ultra-challenging Volvo Ocean Race, in addition to hosting one of the official race stops. Since there is no reason why Kuwait shouldn’t rise to a similar challenge in the near future, I can only hope that with enough awareness, resources, and support, we too can become formidable contenders on the Gulf – and eventually global - sailing scene.

For more information please visit the KOSA website: sites.google.com/site/kosasailingweb/ or email KOSA at: sail-kosa@live.com Images courtesy of Carmen Loren.

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bazaar Love/Hate

OUR TOP 5 CONFLICTS ABOUT TRAVEL by bazaar staff

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one with the cheapest flights—and that made all the difference. Yes, when Robert Frost wrote his now near-anthemic poem, he certainly did not have travel apps and user-reviewed-internet musings to aid him in his journey. So what is it about the act of taking a vacation that is so simultaneously fulfilling and exhausting that we often need a secondary recovery vacation upon our return home? Whether too much freedom, lack of routine, or even just spending so much time with your favorite person that they began to become your least favorite person— we dissect the in’s and out’s of travel for the spots that manage to both irk and reward us most. #5 (in)Security-It is hard to come down against airport security when they are literally there only to make sure that you arrive at your destination safely…but let me give it a shot: In this day and age, it is safe to say that over-arching airport security sucked all the last bit-o-fun out of air travel.

Not too long ago there was still a time when you could arrive at the airport with minutes to spare and leisurely meander towards the general direction of your flight with nary a second-thought given towards what 36

shoes, belt, clothes, digital items you may have on your person-and all that is to say nothing of fluids over 3oz.

These days, if you are not planning out your wardrobe and belongings days in advance, specifically for speed and efficiency when it comes to getting through security, then you are part of the problem. Move out of the way and let those of us who do through. Also, the power that female flight attendants now possess via their hidden ability to wink at an undercover security officer on your flight and have you bounced out of the plane quicker than you can say TSA, seems to be wielded like a sword through your luggage. Best advice—don’t provoke the animals! #4 The All Inclusive- The picture that comes to mind when imagining the care-free lifestyle begat by an all-inclusive resort always involves a lot of frolicking to and from every form of top-notch and Bacchus form of entertainment, all whilst not being burdened by that incredibly heavy wallet in your pocket. Yes, waitermore caviar, more champagne, and let me buy a round for that entire table. Sadly, more often than not, it is all drinks and buffet food of the variety that you would not wish on your worst enemy. This is not to say that they can’t be a good thing (I love

them in theory) they just normally aren’t. A close related topic here would be The Package Tour, which is at least worth a mention considering that they promise the same pop and often fail to deliver for the same reasons: forced stops at souvenir shops where they no-doubt get a kick back always leave you feeling a bit used and empty. Do yourself a favor and strike out on your own. #3 You, my friend, have a lot of baggage! –I know, I know, you want to bring it all with you. You never know what you will need until you get there: what if there’s a cocktail party, what about a freak snowstorm—I must be prepared. Then there are those who skew the other way, those of us who are so obsessed with efficient packing that we often find ourselves missing that extra thing that could make the trip perfect, or at the very least find ourselves without the room in our bag to bring back the goodies we want.

So it’s a trade off: the free-wheeling feeling of checking little to no luggage at all, versus the real life need to have all of the toiletries and accouterment that a good trip necessitates. Alas, in the end one must simply choose what is most important! #2 A Group Thing- When most people envision their vacations they picture themselves with their best friends by their side and so, naturally, they invite them. Often, in turn, this friend invites a friend, and before you know it: you’re traveling in a group of pseudo-friends and half-acquaintances and find yourself regretting that you ever opened your mouth. Now, even in a group of all close friends-since-birth-types this has all the makings of a disaster waiting to happen. If you are an early bird and they are all late sleepers, or any variation of vice versa this can be a disaster. So, why do we do it at all?

Because on the off chance that the group is just right, and you’re having that sunset beer on the rooftop deck of your hillside Sardinian villa, watching the Mediterranean crash upon the shore—you know instantly

that you are experiencing one of life’s rare, perfect moments. #1 Sightseeing The ObligatoryWhen you mention any great city in the world you are immediately bombarded with advice that normally begins with the statement “you must go to…” This is fine enough, but there is something to be said for the traveler that knows themselves enough to know that it is their trip and they should do what they want—not what they are supposed to want. For example, Rome: Vatican, Paris, Eiffel Tower, Egypt, the pyramids; London, Big Ben; NYC-Times Square. Quite often too, these thing you “have” to see, are things you would likely not go to see if they were in your own town. Culture’s fine and dandy when its culture time. Sometimes, you need to listen to your inner voice.

Years ago in Paris some friends and I trekked for miles to get to the Louvre.

I did not really want to go, but I also did not want to be the one to miss it. So we went. Upon arrival we were bombarded with the worlds longest line that wrapped about 3 times throughout the inner square and out into the street. At this point, I said to my compatriots, have a good day; I will wait for you to finish at the café across the street. I had the time of my life meeting locals and “manger et de boire” until my heart was content. My friends arrived hours later, haggard and defeated, as the museum closed just minutes before they could reach the front entrance; a whole day wasted waiting to wait, while the true culture was waiting across the street. C’est la vie!

A Necessary Bonus: The Constant photographer- If you spend more time documenting the actual act of travel (and of course immediately uploading to all social media) than enjoying the travel, just stay home and Photoshop!

This months Love/Hate column is brought to you by the collective ministries of tourism of the places you’ve not yet travelled to. Up next month: Love/Hate: Halloween.

SNKR

STREET ART

Photographer sees things in black and white by bazaar staff

When Ahmad Al Shammeri received his first camera from his mother on a trip to Amman, Jordan, he immediately fell in love with the prospects of the art. So convinced was he that this would be his future calling, that he dedicated his first rolls of film to his family and never looked back. An artist that currently works within the constraints of primarily black and white, “street photography,” he enjoys showing various facets of society in all of their flawed and perfect forms. As an artist, he defines the moments he captures as priceless for all of their inherent honesty and reflections of society at large. With this in mind, we sat down with Ahmad to find out more about the man behind the camera.

What/Who inspires your art and why?

My inspiration comes from photography itself, the people I meet, the places I visit, and from photographers who devoted their life to photography and exploring humanity like Robert Capa, Elliott Erwitt, Marc Riboud, and Henri Cartier-Bresson.

What has inspired your specific type of photography (i.e. street scenes)?

I was mainly inspired by the French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson, who helped develop the 38

street photography genre through an unmatchable technique. His images were all about simplicity and precision, where he engaged himself with his subjects, and managed to record unforgettable moments of the human history.

Do you do other variations of photography as well, or are you sticking to this for now?

My main focus is street photography, but I also do landscape photography, architecture photography, and travel photography as well.

What has been the hardest challenge you have faced in your artistic career so far?

My hardest challenge so far was learning how to spot my subjects and approach them without uncovering myself. In street photography, every second counts, and every movement must be calculated to achieve one good photograph. I had to learn to better understand human behavior and how to detect sudden movements of the subject; how to read impressions within mere seconds. These skills are of course all ones that I couldn’t find in books, but only by practice.

How has the Middle Eastern world reacted to your art?

I believe that the art scene in the region is growing at a fast pace, and so is its audience. But

as in any field, you always find your supporters and opponents, and that’s normal. I’m getting positive feedback about my art from other photographers, artists, and art critics in the Middle East.

Is there a prevailing message you are trying to communicate with your pieces?

My work is a mirror that reflects human behavior in its simplest form where thoughts, emotions, dreams, and hopes of others are carried through tales and stories; the ones you never see in a photo album.

What is your dream for your art / what would you like to accomplish in the future?

My dream is to have my MA in photography.

Are there any exhibitions of your work coming up in Kuwait?

I’m currently working on a couple of projects and collaborations with other artists and photographers based in Kuwait. Hopefully, I’ll have my first group show by the end of this year.

Ahmad’s art can be viewed online at his website: www.ahmadalshammeri.com. He can be reached via email at: ahmad.alshammeri@gmail.com or you can follow his instagram: @ahmadalshammeri

HASSANS OPTICS

E-COMMERCE SIMPLIFIED

Aramex talks about e-commerce and Shop and Ship by bazaar staff

If you’re hopelessly addicted to online shopping, then I’m sure that you’ve come by the wonderful service of Shop and Ship brought to you by Aramex.

Personally, I get an extra thrill when I spot an online bargain, and knowing that I can look anywhere online, literally anywhere, to find it, is more liberating to me then scouring store upon store to find a certain product. With Shop and Ship accounts in the US, UK, Istanbul, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Shanghai and even Dubai, users around the globe can shop their hearts out in an innovatively connected manner. For e-commerce entrepreneurs, Aramex also provides a one-stop solution for all of their needs. We talk to Hassan Mikail, Global Director of e-commerce at Aramex International, to give us the lowdown on how Aramex is revolutionizing e-commerce and facilitating online business with Shop and Ship.

How does Aramex continue to invest in its commitment to e-commerce?

We believe e-commerce can be one of the driving forces for employment and a superb means for new business opportunities, particularly in 40

emerging markets. Remember, you can now trade 24/7 globally. Young and ambitious entrepreneurs have a lot of ideas to offer, in tune with the latest developments of technology and new trends. We’re very active on several fronts, the enablement of these young guns to go out and get it, with our suite of e-commerce solutions and delivery solutions that are tailor made to different business requirements.

If you visit www.aramex.com/ecommerce, you’ll see REDe, our primary resource center for e-commerce. There, we offer introductions to our integrated partners, their offerings, etc.. The beauty of e-commerce is that it is something anyone can start on the side, learn from it, and test it, before deciding to take the full-time plunge. We’re also heavily involved with the likes of Astrolabs, Wamda and ArabNet, helping get the message out, mentoring, advising and evangelizing the wonderful potential of e-business. In addition, we’ve also ensured that we extend the most competitive rates/services for your e-business.

In Dubai, we’re piloting the eHOUSE project, a purpose built facility for e-business, offering

warehouse and inventory management, logistics and temporary workspace/stations for startups, all under one roof…. they can hit the ground running from day 1.

How has the Shop and Ship service evolved since its early beginnings?

The model originally started as a catalog business (pre-Internet boom) and has evolved into an online delivery solution for cross-border shopping. We’ve learned that numerous sites back in the days wouldn’t ship internationally and if they did, they’d be charging excessively. Today, it’s an industry leader, with a very healthy customer base and new services have been introduced such as the shipping of special commodities, i.e. perfumes and aerosols (in select markets), and an optional protection service. Innovation never stops at Shop and Ship. The brand is constantly fueled and challenged by innovation…

How is online shopping and e-commerce, for both the consumer and business, facilitated with Shop and Ship?

Shop and Ship is now also a fantastic cross-

border service for many online merchants who don’t have the resources to sell internationally, nor the financial means to invest in international logistics. We’ve brought down the global challenges of trade with this merchant-friendly solution. From a consumer perspective, as a Shop and Ship member, you’re no longer restricted to products only available in your local market. You have the right to shop from anywhere and anytime.

What does the addition of new cities mean to the avid shopper?

Our plan is for any individual or merchant to be able to sell or buy globally, from any key city in the world. In addition to New York, London and Shanghai. This year alone we’ve introduced Dubai, Istanbul and Mumbai and Hong Kong, to be followed by 2 more cities in Q4. Watch this space!

This one’s from our shopaholics. A problem we tend to run into with online shopping is not having a US based credit card. Can Shop and Ship help?

Problem solved! We’ve introduced a solution for this by partnering with the likes of US Unlocked

not too long ago. SNS Members love it. Here you go www.usunlocked.com/aramex.php.

People tend to complain about shipping rates.

What’s Shop and Ship doing to address this situation?

The shipping rates alone are very competitive, especially since we don’t charge volumetric; however, as an end-consumer, it’s the additional charges that add up, which cause concern.

Majority of these charges are usually customs and duties related, at point of import, or, when additional duties are not streamlined in the process, such as the case here in Kuwait. These are concerns that also affect us as a company and we’re continuously addressing them with the concerned officials.

Can you tell us more about Shop and Ship Extra?

It’s all about giving our members more choices and variety. We spend a lot of time curating the site; giving our members what appeals to them, new gadgets, special offers and quirky things you don’t easily find on the internet. We have right now over 100,000

products listed, with the option to scale up to 250,000 by year-end.

How does the Kuwaiti e-commerce market fare out when compared to its regional neighbors?

Kuwait’s online population is one of the most advanced and switched-on, in the region. Several things have made this happen: 1) We’ve had our boom way before any other country in the region, 2) We generally are well-travelled, 3) We have solid IT infrastructure and telecom, 4) High penetration of credit cards/advanced financial system… remember…we’ve been a cashless economy (thanks to K-net)…way back in the 80’s.

I have a small e-commerce business in Kuwait and am looking to expand regionally how can Aramex help me?

It can start in 1-minute. Visit aramex.com/ecommerce and you’re good to go.

Check out www.aramex.com and www.shopandship.com for more information, and start selling or shopping online.

41

bazaar techno Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. ~ Arthur C. Clarke

RANGE – SMART THERMOMETER

I-FREE EYESIGHT CORRECTION SCREEN

RUARK AUDIO R7

Modernize your kitchen craft with precise temperature readings, alerts to phones anywhere, and recipe graphs for tasty food and drink. With Range, you can take the guesswork out of cooking and perfect your kitchen craft. Clip it on or stick it in and set an alert for the desired temperature with the Range app for iOS (they include presets for common uses). While you do the dishes or relax, Range graphs the temperature over time so you can learn and improve from each experiment. Once the roast has reached temperature and achieved perfection, Range tells you. Over half way through its pledging goal on Kickstarter, this is bound to hit the market soon.

Imagine being able to stare at your computer screen all day long without your glasses or contact lenses.

A farfetched thought for myopic folks, unless they undergo surgery; or alternatively see the fruition of the i-Free concept created by Ryan Jongwoo Choi. The idea is to have auto-correcting screen that portrays images according to the prescription number you have (which is entered into the device by you, using a touch screen). This way there is less straining on your eyes, which helps your vision in the long run. A winner of the 2013 International Forum (iF) of Design Awards.

If you want your home audio to sit as the centerpiece in your living room, it needs to look beautiful. The Ruark Audio R7 has a stylish 60s contemporary look, wrapped in walnut veneer cabinet and sitting on black lacquer legs. The center — made from aluminium and glass — houses a DAB+/FM/internet radio, a CD/MP3 player, and has the ability to stream music wirelessly over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. A removable RotoDial remote lets you control it from nearly anywhere in your home, while a selection of inputs at rear puts it at the center of your entertainment system. Two drivers, an eight-inch subwoofer, and 160 watts of power keep your music sounding great.

www.kickstarter.com

www.yankodesign.com

www.uncrate.com

TILE TRACKING TAGS

NIKE CITRUS WATCH

ARTIPHON INSTRUMENT 1

We lose things so frequently we wonder if we aren’t also losing our minds — but with Tile Tracking Tags (KWD 7), we’re hoping to stop. This tiny device attaches to anything you lose frequently (your keys, bag, bike, pets, small children), and if you’re within 150 feet of your lost thing, it alerts you to its location through an iOS app. It works using Bluetooth 4.0 combined with your app-equipped iOS device, as a sort of hot-and-cold game letting you know when you’re getting closer. The app can track up to ten items at a time, and their locations can even be shared with friends.

Conceived for use by the blind but stylish enough to appeal to a broader market, the Nike Citrus watch’s spiral form stretches to fit any wrist size and hints to its zesty inspiration: an orange peel twist. To tell time, the wearer simply touches the tactile, concave face to feel for the hour and minute hands and matches them up with the hour markers.

Unlike many other products for the seeing-impaired, this one can be universally appreciated and massproduced to keep unit prices low!

We’re still amazed at the music people create with nothing more than an iPhone and Garageband — but watching someone play with their phone on stage sounds a bit like our last date. So, in an attempt to make playing music on a phone more entertaining, Artiphon created the Instrument 1 (KWD 250).

It’s an ergonomic body, made from hardwood, that houses your iPhone or iPod Touch and lends a more tactile quality to playing music digitally. With a virtual fingerboard and strum pad, it actually feels like a real instrument. And with plenty of audio outputs and two integrated speakers, it sounds good too.

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www.yankodesign.com

www.uncrate.com

42

DODGE

WHOLISTIC HEALTH Finding your balance by bazaar staff

Have you ever experienced an overall sense of fatigue that won’t seem to go away? Managing our wellbeing is much easier said than done.

We sometimes believe that an endless intake of health supplements, fad diets and exercise trends may improve our health. However, as soon as one realizes that these trends aren’t long-term solutions, for instance breaking that miracle diet while on holiday, in creeps back that inexplicable fatigue.

The experts at the Wholistic Health center know all about this, and are here to help.

Inviting us to take a closer look at the definition of ‘wellbeing’, Maha Al Rashed, along with business partner Adam Harris, believe that a deeper examination of our lifestyles is necessary to attain a life-long sense of wellbeing. The center’s serene location in Kuwait city, with an uninterrupted view of the beautiful sea, serves as the setting to the restorative process of holistic healing.

Influenced by the teachings of Paul Chek, an internationally renowned expert in the fields of corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, they believe that a holistic approach to treatment and education is key to achieving more balance and control in one’s life. Effectively, this results in a genuine, and more permanent, sense of wellbeing. With both of them being certified C.H.E.K (Corrective Holistic Exercise Kinesiology) Institute practitioners in fields that efficiently compliment one another, they treat the body as a whole system, rather than segmented parts, to finding the root cause of a physical, or even psychological, problem.

Both Maha and Adam have been personally influenced by the teachings of Paul Chek and the C.H.E.K. Institute through their own experiences.

For Maha, changing her lifestyle and health regimen only came after her experience of constant fatigue and inexplicable back pain. Turning to Adam, who used to be her trainer then, for advice, Maha still reaps the benefits of holistic healing, and aims to spread her knowledge to others. With reshaping their nutrition choices, one of them living gluten free, they establish the notion that eating healthy doesn’t mean dieting, and only serves as one part to manage a balanced lifestyle.

Upon establishing that achieving a balance of physical, mental and nutritional wellness is key; a consultation at the Wholistic Health center becomes a breeze. Maha explains, “Whether it’s the way we work out, the foods we consume, or how we process knowledge, a balance correction in these areas is immediately noticed by our clients.”

What separates the services at the Wholistic Health center from other places in Kuwait is not only the holistic approach, but it’s the level of honest commitment both Maha and Adam extend 44

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to their clients. She adds, “Our vision of nutrition may be demanding and require dedication. We will go above and beyond to help our clients. From meeting them at supermarkets to teach them about healthier options, what to pick and what to omit in their kitchens, to even personally calling them to remind them of their goals.”

For first time visitors, clients should expect a lengthy, and more importantly, honest discussion about their lifestyles after a full Posturology chart is created. Basically, Maha and Adam are looking to see what might be causing you physical pain through a physical imbalance. Everybody gets a Posturology chart, regardless of the presence of a physical complaint or not- followed by his or her analysis of where adjustments need to be made. Once this is completed, a list of goals is created for the client, and this is where the journey begins at Wholistic Health. Both Maha and Adam agree that this might be difficult, but it’s all about simplifying these goals and taking one step at a time.

Where fitness is concerned, the approach at Wholistic Health is far more personal than what

one might find elsewhere. As a qualified Neuro Muscular therapist, Adam assists in correcting any muscular imbalances by manipulating trigger points in the body that might cause pain. Strengthening the core muscles without using any lifting equipment is a continuous goal for achieving muscles that are strong even if a client isn’t engaging in physical activity.

Because fitness is carried out on a one-on-one basis at the moment, Maha and Adam are also looking to introduce Yoga and Pilates classes focused on meditation, as well as hosting loads of education classes for other fitness professionals. For more educational material, we highly recommend that you visit their page on Facebook, as they share a wealth of tips and advice in the area of holistic health.

The Wholistic Health center is located in Kuwait Tower on Fahd Al Salem Street in Kuwait City. For more information, please call 5556 6676, visit www.wholistic-health.org, and find Wholistic-Health on Facebook.

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‘BREAKING BAD’ BEGINS ITS CONCLUSION

by Willa Paskin

The very first shots of the very first episode of Breaking Bad were so bright and clear, they almost hurt your eyes. Cacti, rock formations, a mesa, and then Walter White’s famous pair of billowing, belted khakis silhouetted against a cerulean sky, objects of such stark clarity and solidity they looked as though you could snatch them out of the TV set.

Since this start, Breaking Bad’s distinguishing characteristic has been this sort of hyper-reality — not just of objects, but plots and people and places as crystalline as the blue meth Walt and Jesse Pinkman have spent the past five seasons slinging. While other great dramas hew to murky syntax, opaque motivations, suppressed emotions, Breaking Bad has always been a creature of the desert, operating in direct sunlight. Its arc was stated (Mr. Chips would become Scarface), its morality expressed (a man really can break bad, and that’s not good), and its characters etched as lucidly as those pants against the sky. We know intimately who Walt and Skyler White, Jesse Pinkman and Hank Schrader are, even though we don’t know, always, what they will do, or what will be done to them. Breaking Bad is as psychologically exacting as it is outlandishly thrilling, complex, intricate and heart-stopping, but it has never been mysterious: The only real mystery — and it sets my nerves jangling just thinking about it — has been how it will end.

When we left off, Walter White, deep into the rococo phase of his megalomania — a giveaway symptom of which is spouting Destiny’s Child lyrics with a menacing leer on one’s face — had decided to walk away from his life as a drug lord. Having recently arranged the prison murders of nine men and having personally killed Mike Erhmantraut, Walt had no enemies left to vanquish, no competitors left to squash. He could go clean, even if it was way too late to go good.

Had Walt any challengers remaining, he might not have quit. His competitive drive and egomania is such that he would never finish on anyone else’s terms. But with all immediate, noncancerous threats dispatched and so much cash on hand that silverfish were sure to take much of it, he let Skyler convince him to get out of the business.

And then his DEA brother-in-law Hank, motivated by a once-in-a-lifetime desire to read poetry for fun, finally realized Walter White was not his mildmannered confidant, but the highly dangerous drug kingpin he had been tracking for years. Walt has worked all the way up the chain of adversaries from scumbag to drug lord to honest-to-god good guy. The final confrontation is at hand.

In the first episode of the new season, Hank’s reaction to this revelation is visceral: It makes him physically sick. But if you go back to the first season of Breaking Bad knowing what you know 46

now, you can see Walter White’s worst qualities simmering inside him all along. Walter White was once a law-abiding chemistry teacher, disrespected in his classroom, emasculated in his own home, beset by cancer and credit card bills, and motivated by a desire to provide for his family. But he was also a keeper of secrets and nurser of grudges, a spectacular liar with an explosive and violent temper, a man with a predilection toward emotional and sexual bullying, nursing the deep belief that he had been wronged and overlooked by the world.

At first his behavior seemed macho: beating up a jerk who teased his son; blowing up an insufferable rich guy’s car; returning home at the end of the pilot having murdered two men in an RV to take Skyler from behind (“Is that you, Walt?” she asked). Or it seemed explicable, at least: choking a man to death after less than a

week on the job; trying to force his wife to have sex with him against the refrigerator post-murder; obsessing about meth craftsmanship. But these were just harbingers of more unhinged, ruthless actions to come. We underestimated Walt by overestimating him, seeing good intentions where there was also always his thrumming, humming, unquenchable need to be recognized.

For many seasons, the sheer charisma of Bryan Cranston’s performance kept viewers on Walt’s side, even as we watched him poison a small child and let a woman choke on her own vomit. No actor has ever lied so well on camera — been simultaneously so transparent to the audience and so believably opaque to his peers.

But the writers’ view of Walt eventually won out.

Breaking Bad has enormous sympathy for the ethically compromised. The show wants us to

feel for Skyler, who is now deeply engaged in laundering drug money; for Mike, a problemsolving multiple murderer; and, most of all, for distraught, disturbed, haunted, drug-dealing, people-killing Jesse. But Breaking Bad has no truck with Walt’s pride and self-delusion, his amoral quest for immortality.

Breaking Bad, like all truly great shows, is an endlessly rich text. Among many other things, it is a dark comedy about Marxist alienation and DIY culture, a tragedy about the precariousness of middle-class life in America, a riff on global business practices, scenes from the disintegration of a marriage, and a thrilling action adventure. But most simply it is about a man steroidally, homicidally motivated not to die of no importance. Walter White, like every tyrant and also every selfie-taker, just wants to be —

as the tagline points out — remembered, and as more than a regular guy and by more than just those who love him.

What Walt wants, much more than money, is long-term infamy and respect. He cannot have that. The flaw of Walt’s ambition is built right into the command “Remember My Name.” The name that Walter White wants everyone to recall is Heisenberg, and that name already belongs to someone else. Walter White has perverted and poisoned his life, and the life of everyone around him, to construct an “empire” in someone else’s name, built on the only thing less stable than sand — speed. Not just the blue stuff, but the stuff of time itself, which Walt is running out of. Walt has made himself a myth as if that could sustain his life, and that is the biggest self-delusion of all.

Writing in Time, James Poniewozik rightfully

argued that, as it sprints toward the finale, it’s not Breaking Bad’s job to punish Walter White: “It’s important, and necessary, and unavoidable, that we should ask what Walter White deserves,” he writes, “But it would be a mistake to decide that Breaking Bad has a responsibility to give Walter a just punishment — that it owes it to him, and to us, and that if it doesn’t . . . then Breaking Bad is a bad show, both dramatically and morally.”

But Breaking Bad’s high-wire plotting works so in concert with its ethical outlook that almost all of the show’s many possible outcomes — Will Walt kill Jesse or Hank? Will he die? Will he kill Jesse or Hank and then die? What will happen to his family? Will he succumb to cancer? Will he have to go back to teaching chemistry? Will he thrive?

Justice always finds the man who thinks that he can live forever. It will find Walter White, too.

47

THE CAUSE DEBATE

by Abrar AlShammari

There are an endless list of ‘causes’ that social groups all over the world are advocating for, calling for affirmative action for a diversity of issues. This includes calls to end child abuse, domestic abuse, animal abuse, racial discrimination, religious intolerance, educational equity, women’s rights and gender equality, freedom of sexuality, freedom of expression through the press and other forms of media, and countless other causes that activists dedicate their lives to. The aforementioned causes were not listed in a particular order; in other words, no cause carries more significance than another.

All deserve an equal amount of respect and attention, because they are all efforts exerted by individuals attempting to better our global community – if we were to reach a point where all of these calls are met, we would finally be able to live in a world where the amount of suffering would be considerably reduced.

In August, the animal-loving community of Kuwait was appalled to see graphic photos of stray dogs evidently wounded by bullets. A professional shooter went on a killing spree shortly after a four-year-old child was allegedly attacked by a pack of stray dogs; the shooter declared it to be a campaign that would obliterate all the stray dogs of the country, in the name of ‘avenging’ the child’s attack. Shortly after, a copy-cat ‘campaign’ ‘inspired’ by the professional shooter’s ‘glorious’ cause performed a similar stunt but with different tactics: they ran over stray dogs with their cars, then decapitated them to finish them off. Two things that both of these ‘campaigns’ have in common? One: they targeted stray dogs. Two: they were confident enough to boast about their actions on social media by posting graphic photos and videos of shot dogs and decapitated heads.

Naturally, what ensued was a rigorous discussion, which questioned mercy – in terms of religion in particular, and humanity in general – as well as state protection of animal rights (if any). One of the results of this discussion was word reaching Animal Cruelty Exposed, a global animal rights watch with over 100,000 readers – predominantly a Western audience.

The goal of that kind of exposure is normally to shame the State of Kuwait into taking action, so to speak. Ideally, it would first shame the citizens, who would not want their hometown to be labeled as a merciless bystander that protects bloodthirsty ‘athletes’, and then allows them to represent that state at world-distinguished competitions, despite abusing their gun permits and misrepresenting the sport itself. Next, it would be the citizens themselves that would demand action, demand an end to the brutality, and a constructive solution to the issue of stray dogs – one that would not harm other creatures 48

in the process.

Like I said, ideally that is what would happen.

Realistically? Quite a few citizens were offended at the exposure itself; why should we display our dirty garments to the world? We should keep our flaws and our shameful coping methods within our own community. That way, we can preserve our ‘methods’, and our image of being decent, ‘civilized’ human beings – even if the truth is far from that. In other words, people were more focused on the fact that the global community was looking down on us because of this exposure, one that many locals unfortunately dismissed to be trivial and insignificant. The bigger picture was completely brushed off. Instead, people were asking, “This is what you choose to focus on?

Animal rights rather than human rights?”

The major fault in the statement above is that it prioritizes one cause over another. It suggests that those advocating for animal rights care more for four-legged creatures who “add nothing to our community” and “can be easily replaced” than they do for “Muslims in Burma” and “Kuwaitis arrested for demanding further democracy”. It creates a connection between the two that is simply nonexistent, and makes an assumption that cannot be proven.

Emanuel Kant, renowned philosopher said, “He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with men. We can judge the heart of

man by his treatment of animals.” From personal experience, I can actually say that those who demand the protection of animal rights usually support the protection of all vulnerable Earthwalking creatures; women, children, refugees, trees, elderly citizens, be it whoever. I do not say this out of prejudice, but out of an understanding of the mercy that a human being learns from being kind to a creature that can neither harm you nor thank you; to give something to someone without asking for anything – including acknowledgment and praise. Of course, this isn’t necessarily a rule; Hitler loved his two German Shepherds quite dearly and his level of compassion wasn’t skyrocketing, but I would like to think that his case was an exceptional one.

We cannot progress as a society if we do not support one another; putting each other down based on ‘which cause you take up’ may very well lead to that cause being crossed off the list of issues being solved. Then who wins? Your ego?

Realistically, it is impossible for a single individual to take up all causes. Some are capable of taking up more than one because their conscience tells them they need to find a way of distributing themselves to whoever needs their voice. But again, it is literally impossible to run after each and every one – and it does not make that individual a bad person for not being able to.

It simply makes them human.

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Inside/Out

THE INDUSTRY GOES SHOPPING FOR UNKNOWN BANDS by bazaar staff

After our recent articles on gigs and using social media to your best advantage (i.e. getting the word out), we were recently asked a question that seems to come up often: but what else can I do in the mean time?

Meaning, yes I know that I must play, practice, and actively engage with my fans, but is there anything further I can do while trudging through the daily dirge of spreading my art one “add friend” at a time? Well, the answer is yes-sort of. There are a variety of festivals built specifically to introduce new and emerging artists that encourage international participation; though it can be a bit of a long shot, as such magic pills often are.

So, what does that mean locally?

It is first important to note what type of music we are talking about here.

While everybody will tell you they will accept any band from anywhere, any time—as they quickly accept your application fee—bands with the highest likelihood of getting chosen to play are ones that are unique, interesting, hip, and sellableregardless of genre. So, while it might not be the place for an artist doing traditional Arab music, a band like Mashrou3 Leila (from Lebanon) would be an easy fit even when considering most of their songs are in Arabic (I only note this to illustrate the subtle difference between the two intersections and interests of these bands). So, much like Arab Idol tends to feature primarily vocalists who sing in Arabic by the final rounds, whilst the voice might have a more contemporary and international feel, such is the same with these festivals. That said, if you can get in, it could literally make your career.

True to form, even just attending one of these conferences as a nonperformer would teach you more about the actual business of music than you are likely to learn anywhere else; proceed accordingly.

SXSW- Austin, TX For over 20 years now, the South

by Southwest festival has been the single best festival to play as an unsigned, up and coming, old but 50

returning in a hip way, or just want to “see and be seen” artist. Each year, more than 1000 bands play over a weeks worth of festivities at a handful of venues across the city.

More importantly, every A&R rep for record labels (that still have a job-RIP to too many as the industry phases these jobs out) will be there and they will be looking for what they haven’t heard of. Or they will be looking for what they have heard of, but cannot make it to your lil’ hometown of Kuwait City to see. They not only encourage international entrants, but also feel their overall mix is improved by it. To this point, SXSW now has offices in Ireland, Germany, Australia and Japan who help bring SXSW registrants to Austin every year. The deadline to apply to play in March of next year is this October 11.

CMJ- NYC, NY The College Music Journal conference is held every year in September and serves as the calendared opposite to the aforementioned SXSW festival.

It takes place over the span of approximately one week at a variety of clubs and venues throughout the city. In addition, there are conferences and speakers by some of the best all-time musicians that discuss

everything from the latest royalty rates, to the rise of the 360 record deal (a deal that entitles the record label to a percentage of literally everything you do: from shows, to merchandise, and of course-records) that has popped up in recent years due to dwindling profits from physical record sales. What is most notable here is the pivotal role that college radio stations play in breaking bands in the broader U.S. music market: generally speaking, if you want to launch a new record, you first pitch to the college radio markets to try and get plays. Ones that are played a lot, eventually chart. Finally, the best of the CMJ radio charts tend to be a great indicator for what bands will be hitting mainstream radio by the following year. It is really that simple.

So, if you can manage to snag one of the slots in their festival, by extension you are playing at the event where all the industry folks are at- not to mention, you will again see a bunch of great bands play. CMJ takes place October 15 – 19 this year; dates for next year TBA. Obviously the above is a short list and skews embarrassingly American.

The reason for this is three-fold: 1) the above two are so Iconic that

nothing else comes close, 2) the American music market is still largely considered the Holy Grail for artists due to the size of the market and potential for global influence, and 3) as an American musician, this is the market I can speak to best-if you know of a Europe/Asia/Mid-East/ Australian equivalent—let us know!

Keep in mind that the above mentioned “ways in” to the industry use an old school model of “gate keepers” that act as “taste makers” for what is hot and what is not. While I personally feel that most are better off taking matters into their own hands and not asking for permission to do their thing, whatever that thing is, there is certainly no denying the tangible benefits that playing at the above festivals can offer. They are not, in themselves a guarantee to the ever-elusive record deal (or more specifically these days – distribution deals-we can get into that more later); however, they are as close as people are coming these days.

Inside/Out discusses all things music. Feel free to send any questions, suggestions, or hate mail as you see fit (please include mixtapes, we love music!).

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MARS ONE (BAZAAR -1)

Staff tricks writer into one-way interplanetary travel by bazaar staff

It started simply enough…after a brief interoffice debate about the viability of life on Mars and the now not-so-crazy and darn-nearpractical-certainty of the looming MARS ONE project which seeks to put the first human colony on Mars, the gauntlet had been thrown, and I accepted. Then, I just Googled: apply… go...to…Mars. I was off on my journey.

First, what is the Mars One mission, you ask? In case you are not familiar, it is basically a group of people from across the globe who are volunteering to go on a one-way (YES- ONEWAY!) trip to Mars, starting in the year 2023 with hopes of setting up a permanent settlement (to date, more than 100,000 people have applied).

In successive years (every 2), additional people would go in groups of 4 and the colony would grow. To be blunt, you will die there. Though, the chance also exists for you to live there, and go down in history for it, no doubt. And although they have a projection of being able to video chat (with a not-insignificant 7minute time delay mind you), you will be mostly cut-off from the planet earth for the rest of your days.

In case this all sounds like pie in the sky type 52

futuristic thinking, let me assure you: the science seems sound: even a cursory glance at previous data gathered from the Mars rover projects seem to indicate that at some point, some of the vital elements needed to support human life on Mars existed on the red planet; further, there is even speculation that some of the emissions that currently plague and erode our own planets resources (I’m talking to you coal!), could actually be beneficial in the act of manipulating the MARS atmosphere to being more like our own. With all that in mind, I mentally prepared to dive into the application. After quickly receiving an email message that “you have authorized the payment to Interplanetary Media Group, LLC.”, I knew I was on my way.

The first question that began to creep up on me was…do you make yourself sound crazy so as to assure you will not be picked? Do you make yourself sound sane and see if that is something they would even value? Or do you just answer honestly and let the chips fall where they may? After another office spat, we all agreed that for the sake of this article, it would be best to simply answer honestly, be forthright, and see

what happened. Now also seems a good time to mention that I had not yet let my wife in on this little plan-so I here took the time out to advise her. It went like this, verbatim: “hey, so don’t ask me why, but I’m applying for the one-way trip to MARS, but it’s ok, cuz (SIC) it’s for work.” After the passing of a few minutes came the response, “What, is there a bonus involved?” I guess that means she is in if there is, but not if there’s not?

A great wife answer if ever there was one.

The application itself should be applauded for its purposeful accessibility. First off, it is available in 11 different languages. Secondly, they do a relative price point on it that is actually based on the GDP of the applicants home country, thus allowing the price point to be enough money that people actually seriously consider it before applying, but not so much that anybody who wants to apply is priced out of contention. Such humble, noble, and inclusive pricing strategies should be noted as proof-is-in-the-pudding type evidence that they truly are seeking to establish a multinational apolitical new colony.

I was immediately dismayed to find out upon starting my application that it is quite cumbersome.

Turns out, they are quite serious about this whole gig and want to be sure they are getting the right kind of people. Also to their credit, they are not just looking for doctor and science types; they want people who can fully experience and explain how they feel about the process—dare I say, they are practically screaming to have a writer on board—ok, I will do it! One application, essay, picture, and video later and the app is all in. Now we will just have to see what happens next…

When you think about it, Mars is probably not that different from Kuwait: unbearable temperatures that keep you from going outside for long periods of time, dust storms that spring up out of nowhere and blanket you in a could of gritty brown nothingness, the ever-present potential for unkown creatures to leap out at you from the darkness of a pitch-black night. Same-same!

I am doing this on a lark, there is no doubt about it; but, as you go through the process (and committed as we as an office decided I must be in order to properly report on the process) it is hard not to seriously try to grapple with the implications of the decision at hand. In short, if the 8 years or so of training in small confined spaces is

not enough to put you off (mostly in two-month increments), certainly the need to say a big ol’ permanent goodbye to everyone and everything you have ever known must be considered. And who are these people who really want to do this? Innumerable questions start to pop up at random… So here are some of the questions in the random order in which they occurred to me: Questions I ask myself (the order of which is real time, and notable for their sporadic trend): • Can you get Wifi there? If so, is it only every 6 months when the planets are closest?

• Can I bring my dog, and if so does he need to fill out a separate application?

• Do I actually meet the height requirement? (turns out I do; 157cm is only 5’1 no problem-o!)

• Will they have the astronaut icecream on the flight?

• Oh boy is my family gonna be mad.

• Oh boy is my wife gonna be mad.

• Exactly how small is a “small confined space?”

• How likely is it that one person gets space- dementia and has to be handled?

• If you had a baby up there, would it be considered the galaxy’s first Martian?

•

What if it is not the galaxy’s first Martian?

To be honest, the questions have not stopped since we started this whole thing. So I ask you dear reader: could you do it? Would you do it?

In the end, we were absolutely honest about everything (with the exception of our tongue-incheek Private Motivation Letter), and in so doing, had to really consider the implications of the application far more than I was ready to when I began. One thing is clear: given the size of this project and the companies commitment to seeing it through, to say nothing of their promise for a potential corresponding reality TV show that would air the lives of our future astronauts, there is a high probability that the colony will at least be attempted. Whether the long-term prospects of life on Mars turn out to be all they plan for or not is almost regardless to the fact that we, as human beings, are trying it at all; the future is here indeed.

The MARS One project can be learned about, applied to, or generally mocked for its impertinence at www.mars-one.com 53

TADAM!

Confections collection from the jewelry kitchen by bazaar staff

Embrace the fashionable foodie within: you might deny yourself the goodness that is chocolate for the sake of fashion, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear a piece of chocolate around your neck. Or a mini donut dipped into chocolate-golden glaze and hung on a chain as a necklace. With TADAM!’s beautiful, handmade ceramic jewelry, indulgence is now a possibility. Oh, and it’s calorie free too.

Originating from Lithuania, and now available in Kuwait, the TADAM! line of inspiring eye-candy, aims to celebrate modern society’s fascination with food. Located in the capital city of Vilnius, TADAM!’s jewelry kitchen started handcrafting food jewelry. A line of chocolates, mini donuts and coconut confections, named “The Sweet Course for Your 54

Eyes” was released, which recently won Lithuania’s National GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2013.

“A spin through popular internet sites, TV shows and book stores revealed the world’s obsession with food and cuisine, so we decided to take the concept one step further – by crafting food into jewelry”, – says Deimante Litvinaite, inventor and designer of TADAM! jewelry.

People say that you taste with your eyes, and since jewelry plays a major part in completing your wardrobe, these deliciously handcrafted pieces create the feeling of wonderful taste by visually appealing to dessert lovers. Come on, our passion for all things sweet is one that is universal.

Imagine wearing a small delicacy, freshly baked, fresh in texture, but obviously inedible. The mere fact that it looks good enough to eat is an

added playful element.

The recipe for these complex sweet treats is not easy. To start off, the form of white clay is “baked” by hand, several times, and then carefully coated with alloys of precious metals that reflect the colors of sweet confections. White or dark chocolate bars are coated with a golden glaze. Perfectly rounded coconut truffles look deceivingly inviting to eat. The result of a lengthy process of experimentation, each piece of jewelry can now be coated in gold or platinum. Based on these meticulous processes, the production of a small ceramic collection can take up to ten days.

Besides the artful production of these little sweets, the actual presentation of the ceramic confections collection is stunning. Packed in a fancy, white octahedron-shaped box.

Inside the box the jewelry piece is lying atop soft, shredded paper. A subtle surprise is locked inside the box – the sweet-scented, real dessert flavor.

There is also a label on the chain that cheekily reads, “When you wish to have a real feast it is not necessary to chase after goods and foods. Is it a piece of art or just a tasty treat?

Let the sparkling eyes decide it.

Warning – inedible!”

This autumn TADAM! design jewelry will be exhibiting in Maison & Objet in Paris taking place Sept 6 – 10th.

For the full jewelry assortment available for sale in Kuwait and the Middle East, check out TADAM! on Twitter and Instagram @tadamdesignME. You can also call 6776 8505 or email middle.east@tadamtadam.lt for sale inquiries.

Images courtesy of Monika Penkute

VANS

25309556 The Avenues 22200502

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ANWAR JAWHAR - INSPIRATIONAL TRIATHLETE

Swim. Bike. Run. Repeat. by bazaar staff

Meet Anwar Jawhar, the 28-year-old Kuwaiti triathlete who’s set a new record for Kuwait and the region, by heading to Las Vegas this September to compete at the World Championships. Over the last three years, this inspirational athlete took on triathlons throughout the GCC, and all of his consistent dedication to training paid off recently when he participated in the 2013 Ironman 70.3 race that took place on the 4th of August in Cebu, in the Philippines. Imagine this challenge: a 1.9km swim, a 90km bike ride followed directly by a 21.1km run—continuously! As his 4th Ironman race, and determined to beat his previous race times, Anwar finished first in his age category, earning himself a well-deserved place in the world championships. bazaar interviews the local legend before he heads off to compete at the world championships, hoping to find out more about what it takes to make it in the competitive field of triathlon racing.

What motivated you to become a triathlete?

I have always been into sports growing up and always been open to anything that gives me an adrenaline rush or a challenge. That’s one of the main reasons I got into triathlon, it’s an amazing sport. One where you challenge yourself mentally and physically not just on race day, but day in and day out, during your training sessions.

At first, it was really about seeing how far I can go with the sport - after all, training to perfect 3 individual sports (swimming, biking and running) is already a huge challenge - and then you have to put them altogether on race day and that’s when the real rush kicks in.

I think motivation is really important with anything in life, not just sports. I remember watching and hearing about the Ironman triathlon and how it’s labeled the “toughest one day event on the planet”. I was suddenly drawn to it even more. I know it sounds almost strange but I enjoy pushing myself to the limits every time my coach lets me in training and that has been my motivating factor that has allowed my passion for the sport to constantly grow and evolve.

Last October I decided that I wanted to take triathlon one step further and be more serious about my goals and what I can achieve for my country internationally at races. I had always been training and racing part-time before work and after work when I was a corporate banker.

It wasn’t easy at all. Waking up at 4:30am heading to the pool to get a session done and then rushing off to work until 3:30pm and then end my day with an evening session. I got to a point where my race results were improving and I started to have a lot more confidence in what 56

I could do to improve. It was then that I decided that I was going to leave my career as a corporate banker and take a huge risk in becoming a full time triathlete. This hasn’t happened before in the region and as much as people, friends and family, supported me, there were a few who kept me doubting myself. In Kuwait it is a huge risk as we lack professional sponsorship deals for many talented athletes. I decided to take the risk. I set off to a training camp in the Spanish Canary Islands early in 2013 and met up with my current coach. We trained and planned the year ahead and thanks to him along with the hard work I have got to where I am today.

You’ve taken on several triathlon races in the GCC. How did you prepare for that endeavor?

It’s always great fun racing in the GCC, the region is booming when it comes to triathlon

races and I’ve met some really talented people around the region at races. Race preparation is always key to being successful in triathlon. You can train as hard as you want, day in day out and think that because of all the hard work you will do great come race day. That’s false. Race preparation is about training your mind, believing in what you can do and taking that mind set to the race on race day and telling yourself “this is my race”. It doesn’t matter if you aim to finish the race or be the race winner, you must have the right preparation mentally as well as physically.

I also find that learning how to be positive throughout my training days helps in the long run. Race preparation takes experience and that comes from trial and error, trying things out in training, listening to your coach and listening to your body. You can read as many articles online or read as many books on triathlon races but if

you go to a race with a bit of self doubt your race is over. Believe in yourself and you will achieve your race goals.

When you’re feeling discouraged, what do you normally think about to move forward?

This will happen. Fact. Feeling down or discouraged during the build up to a race or during training will happen to you no matter how good you are. It’s how you deal with it that counts. I start telling myself to look where I was this time last year. Look how far I’ve come, the improvements and the experience I’ve gained.

It helps me a lot to talk to people closest to me as well and just get my mind of things and away from sports or triathlon for a few hours as well. My coach is probably one of the main driving factors behind me getting over any sort of discouragement I feel. A chat with him and I’m

back on track refueled and ready to go at training 101% again.

You’ve participated in four Ironman 70.3 races.

What was different about each time?

Ironman 70.3 is my favorite distance, it’s a distance I’m good at and enjoy the most in triathlon. So far I have done 4 Ironman 70.3 races, Phuket in 2010 and 2012, Aix En Provence, France 2011 and I just finished one in Cebu, Philippines. Each one of the Ironman 70.3 races I took part in was different because not every race has the same course when it comes to the swim, bike or the run. The terrains could vastly vary, as some were hilly on the bike, others the swim was in a lake or the ocean, some of the races the run was flat and some the run was hilly.

This does make a huge difference obviously as each race proves to be uniquely challenging as

a result. Also, the climate plays a huge role. The weather can be hot, humid, rainy, cold or windy.

It’s such a long day out there racing when you do a triathlon and the natural conditions can play a huge role in how well you get through the day.

How does it feel to come out on top at Ironman 70.3, as the first from your age group, out of 160 participants?

This is the highlight of my triathlon career so far. I finished ahead of the person in 2nd place by 6 minutes. Out of 2500 participants I finished 28th.

This is something that I worked so hard for, and being awarded with a slot in the upcoming 2013 Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Las Vegas on the 8th of September is fantastic. I qualified as the first GCC national to ever do so and so that put Kuwait on the map in triathlon racing which makes me so proud of my achievement. continued on next page...

57

Tell us more about the upcoming world championships that will take place in Las Vegas.

What’s going to be the hardest challenge about this race?

Since the last Ironman race, the timing allocated for training preparation is very limited.

The course is challenging and all of the world’s best triathletes will be taking part as this is the world championship and you can only participate if you get a qualification slot through winning you age group in a previous Ironman 70.3 race.

The World Championships take place every September at a different location around the world. To be able to go to Las Vegas and race to do my best as the first GCC national ever will be such a great honor for me. Also, getting a medal at the end of the race will be such an amazing thing. At the world championships there really isn’t any room for error, your racing with the best triathletes and this is where I will really be tested. It is such a great thing and even though it 58

...continued from previous page

is very near, I still can’t wait to stand at the start line of the world championships!

Who has supported you throughout your journey?

It has been an amazing journey so far for me and it continues to do so. I still am growing and constantly looking for support from sponsors to let me show what I can achieve for myself, for them and for Kuwait. Most of all, I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my family, friends and my coach. That’s for sure. Each one of them in their own way has always believed in me, supported me and stuck by my side when times get hard. I couldn’t be where I am in triathlon without those very special and important people.

I am very grateful to have them supporting me and always will be.

What future do you see for Triathlon races in Kuwait?

The triathlon culture in Kuwait is growing

massively! It’s evolving ever so fast every year.

The local races in Kuwait and the turn out of triathletes who go to take part just proves how the sport is growing. We have some really great potential in both male and female categories in Kuwait and I wish that our sports federations and private companies looked to these triathletes as a way of supporting their inspiring achievements.

The future of triathlon in Kuwait is heading in the right direction; we have had many triathletes compete in various races all over the world from Europe to North America to Asia. I hope to see so many more triathletes soon in Kuwait and you don’t have to be at a professional level to take part in triathlon. You set your goals and achieve them for yourself. It’s always the best thing ever when I see people taking up the sport I’m so passionate about.

Follow Anwar on Twitter @anwarjawhar and Instagram @anwarjawhartriathlete.

BABY COTTONS

YOUR A-OK!

Networking the creative industry by bazaar staff

Bridging a huge disconnect in the region between creatives, opportunities, and clients, yourAOK provides an interactive platform for the creative community in the Middle East to showcase their work and connect with potential clients.

As practicing designers themselves, founders Ruba AlSaleh, Alia AlAzzeh, Mohammed AlRoumi, and Abdulaziz AlKandari realized that several startup design firms have the capabilities, but haven’t been recognized in the market yet. Also noticing the abundance of raw, equally unrecognized, talent, they set out to connect both fronts via the networking solutions offered by yourAOK.net.

Tell us about yourselves.

We are a group of four enthusiastic, practicing architects who have had experience in founding and managing publications and websites in the past, and practicing knowledge in the field of design.

We have had varying experiences from working in Korea to Zurich and the United States that led to an undeniable passion in wanting to move forward and help improve the over-all creative output and networking capabilities between creative professionals, design entrepreneurs, and product suppliers in the MENA region. This ultimately led to the founding of yourAOK Creatives Network in 2012, and its official launch in 2013.

How does yourAOK connect creatives with potential clients? yourAOK platform provides users with a digital portfolio builder to aid creative professionals with the tools to be visually dynamic when portraying their works to potential clients. By having a platform where all creatives visually present their portfolios we provide unlimited exposure for clients searching for particular fields of design to fulfill certain design tasks. Whether they are design 60

entrepreneurs, companies, or product suppliers, they all fall under the yourAOK umbrella. Once portfolios are uploaded, scouting is made easy via our online scouting services and creative output is improved between end users via our social networking services on the platform.

Quarterly, yourAOK publishes yourAOK Pages – a publication dedicated to hand-picking what we see as great uploads on the platform – and we distribute the publication across the region for potential clients to see the crème de la crème of MENA creatives!

What benefits do users gain from signing up to yourAOK? The creative field is different than most fields in the sense that it is subjective and constructive criticism is constantly required to enhance skills. Scouting for creative professionals, such as architects or graphic designers, should not be done via paper CV’s where portfolios are seen as second to a paper CV. Further, clients wanting to design a restaurant, for example, should not have to go through difficulty in finding the right lighting fixtures or chairs, to complete the vision they have for their design concept.

Users who sign up to yourAOK find that their lives are made easier. Our end users are easily provided with constructive criticism on projects, and have a space where they can find and network with similar creatives in different areas of the region. Employers looking to hire are not only driven by years of experience written on a candidate’s resume, but they can also visually see what the candidate is capable of.

Describe a typical day at the office.

The yourAOK Team is currently expanding, and with this expansion comes great fun. So, a typical day would be starting off with our brainstorming

sessions accompanied by raiding our write-on wall and magnetic door with all the little writings and drawings that accompany our thoughts. This, of course, comes after our rituals; for example, Ruba likes her tea, while Alia likes her coffee!

What are some successes assisted by yourAOK? We took off on yourAOK concept after first having the idea in mind in 2010. In 2011, we presented it at the Doha Tasmeem Conference where we were selected winners for the 2011 Doha Design Entrepreneurship competition.

We then held off on what was then the yourAOK concept and continued with the archofkuwait.com blog.

We have since had competitions in collaboration with SSH: we held workshops to improve the overall learning curve, as well as have been media sponsors for several design related events.

Since our launch a couple of months ago, our registered users have tripled from the date of the launch, and the number of items uploaded have doubled. We have had the opportunity to be sponsored by companies such as URC, and our first product suppliers to subscribe was the Design Circle of Kuwait.

What’s next for yourAOK? There is so much for yourAOK to do! The whole point of yourAOK is to serve as a platform that not only aids users in displaying their works, but also is a platform for creative professionals and design entrepreneurs to use as an effective aid in improving and networking their creative abilities.

We have a lot in store for you, and can definitely say it’s fun and exciting to use and adopt as part of a designers daily life. We think you’ll love it too - stay tuned for more!

For more information, please visit www.youraok.net.

‫‪TAIBA‬‬

‫ﻣﻊ ﻗﺴﻢ أﻣﺮاض اﻟﺴﻜﺮ و اﻟﻐﺪد اﻟﺼﻤﺎء ﻧﻠﺘﺰم ‪...‬‬

‫ﺑﺘﻘﺪﻳﻢ أﻓﻀﻞ اﻟﺨﺪﻣﺎت اﻟﻄﺒﻴﺔ ﺗﺤﺖ إﺷﺮاف ﻛﺎدر ﻃﺒﻲ ﻣﺘﻤﻴﺰ ﻣﻦ إﺳﺘﺸﺎرﻳﻴﻦ واﺧﺘﺼﺎﺻﻴﻴﻦ‪.‬‬ ‫أﻣﺮاض اﻟﺴﻜﺮ وﺗﺒﻌﺎﺗﻪ‪ ،‬و إﺿﻄﺮاﺑﺎت اﻟﻐﺪة اﻟﻨﺨﺎﻣﻴﺔ‪ ،‬واﻟﻜﻈﺮﻳﺔ‪ ،‬و ﻗﺼﻮر اﻟﻐﺪد اﻟﺘﻨﺎﺳﻠﻴﺔ ﺑﻤﺎ ﻓﻲ ذﻟﻚ ﻧﻘﺺ ﻫﺮﻣﻮن‬ ‫اﻟﺘﺴﺘﻮﺳﺘﻴﺮون‪ ،‬إﻟﻰ ﺟﺎﻧﺐ اﺿﻄﺮاﺑﺎت وأﻣﺮاض اﻟﻐﺪة اﻟﺪرﻗﻴﺔ‪ ،‬ﺗﺄﺧﺮ اﻟﺒﻠﻮغ‪ ،‬اﺿﻄﺮاﺑﺎت اﻟﻨﻤﻮ‪ ،‬وارﺗﻔﺎع ﺿﻐﻂ اﻟﺪم‪.‬‬

‫د‪ .‬روﺑــﺮت ﺳﻜﻴﻠــﻲ‬ ‫اﺳﺘﺸﺎري أﻣﺮاض اﻟﺴﻜﺮ واﻟﻐﺪد اﻟﺼﻤﺎء‬ ‫ﻋﻀﻮﻳﺔ اﻟﻜﻠﻴﺔ اﻟﻤﻠﻜﻴﺔ ﻟ�ﻃﺒﺎء ‪ -‬أﻳﺮﻟﻨﺪا‬ ‫ﺑﺮﻧﺎﻣﺞ ﻟﻮﻧﺞ وود اﻟﻄﺒﻲ ﺑﺠﺎﻣﻌﺔ ﻫﺎرﻓﺮد‬ ‫اﻟﻮﻻﻳﺎت اﻟﻤﺘﺤﺪة ا�ﻣﺮﻳﻜﻴﺔ‬

‫ﺧﺪﻣﺎت أﻣﺮاض اﻟﺴﻜﺮ و اﻟﻐﺪد اﻟﺼﻤﺎء ﻧﻘﺪﻣﻬﺎ ﻟﻜﻢ ﻓﻲ ﻣﺴﺘﺸﻔﻰ ﻃﻴﺒﺔ ‪ -‬ﻧﺘﻌﺎﻣﻞ ﻣﻊ ﺷﺮﻛﺎت اﻟﺘﺄﻣﻴﻦ‬

‫ﻃﻴﺒﺔ‬ ‫ﻟﻠﺘﺄﻫﻴﻞ واﻟﻌﻼج اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﻲ‬

‫ﻃﻴﺒﺔ‬

‫ﻃﻴﺒﺔ‬

PORTRAITURE Ahmed Al-Dosari by bazaar staff

The art of portraiture, recording one’s features through various artistic mediums such as photography, painting, sculpture, is one that is today overshadowed by the age of digital art, modern typography, and magical special effects.

Portraits, in their pure classical form, have long attracted the attention of regular bystanders and historians alike throughout time, giving us deeper insight into bygone eras and the various styles and skills of artists evolved.

When we found out about Ahmed Isa AlDosari, a Bahraini freelance artist specialized in Portraiture, or portrait pieces, we were immediately intrigued. Can this artistic soul seek to revive what was once forgotten?

A self trained artist since childhood, 31-yearold Ahmed also dabbles in the realms of the 62

landscapes and the abstract, but his focus on portraiture is one that borders on fascination. He believes that people from all walks of life will find portraitures interesting. In this area of art, one’s admiration of art is irrelevant, as the subject holds the viewer’s attention. Whether to admire or mock the figure immortalized, people will always find these pieces as a special point of interest.

The most important facet that makes any given portrait all the more fascinating, according to Ahmed, are its intricate details. Using charcoal, acrylic, and graphite pens for most of his work, he weaves incredible textures and details, such as the slightest light and shades, into his pieces. He adds, “I like to focus on everything in a drawing to make it look like the actual photo or view point.

I also use Oil, Water colors, Pastel, and Color

pencils.” When observing any given portrait, it’s amazing when an expert likeness is achieved, let alone inciting an emotion, which he faultlessly creates with his pieces.

Ahmed’s relationship with art is inseparable with the very notion of how he perceives life, and if he were to define it, it would translate what life speaks of, into a masterpiece. In the future, Ahmed wishes to open an art studio and even a gallery. He looks to become well known in reviving an almost forgotten realm of classical portraitures, adding, “I hope to participate in exhibitions world wide, adopting my passion as a full time profession.”

You can check out Ahmed Al-Dosari’s work on Instagram @aldosari_arts, or visit his website www.a-aldosari.com.

‫ﻋﺮ‬ ‫ض‬ ‫ﺗ‬ ‫ﺤ‬ ‫اﻟﻤﻨﺤﺔ ا ﻮﻳﻞ‬ ‫ ﺟ‬ ‫ﺘ‬ ‫ﻤ‬ ‫ﺎ‬ ‫ﻋ‬

‫ﻴﺔ‬

‫‪TIJARI‬‬

‫ا ن‪ ،‬ﺣﻮل ﻣﻜﺎﻓﺄﺗﻚ ا ﺟﺘﻤﺎﻋﻴﺔ إﻟﻰ اﻟﺘﺠﺎري واﺣﺼﻞ ﻋﻠﻰ‪:‬‬ ‫‪ 50‬د‪.‬ك‪ .‬ﺗﻮدع ﻓﻲ ﺣﺴﺎﺑﻚ‬ ‫ﺑﻄﺎﻗﺔ اﺋﺘﻤﺎﻧﻴﺔ ﺑﺤﺪ ‪ 200‬د‪.‬ك‪@.‬‬ ‫ﺑﻌﺸﺮة دﻧﺎﻧﻴﺮ ﻓﻘﻂ ﻟﺘﺤﺼﻞ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺑﻄﺎﻗﺔ‬ ‫ﻛﻤﺎ ﻳﻤﻜﻨﻚ ﻓﺘﺢ ﺣﺴﺎب‬ ‫اﻟﺴﺤﺐ ا ﻟﻲ اﻟﻤﺼﻤﻤﺔ ﺧﺼﻴﺼﺎ ﻟﻚ واﻻﺳﺘﻤﺘﺎع ﺑﺒﺮﻧﺎﻣﺞ اﻟﺨﺼﻮﻣﺎت اﻟﺨﺎﺻﺔ ﺑﻚ‪.‬‬ ‫@ﺣﺴﺐ اﻟﺸﺮوط ا ﺋﺘﻤﺎﻧﻴﺔ‬

ADRENALINE ‘RUSH’

New film promises high-speed action by bazaar staff

In the new film Rush, Ron Howard’s fuel injected thriller about the duel between British driver James Hunt and his Austrian rival Niki Lauda, we are transported to the World of 70’s Formula 1 car racing.

The film concentrates on a four year period leading up to 1976 – regarded by F1 fans as one of the best seasons ever - when Hunt, in his McLaren, and reigning champion Lauda, driving for Ferrari, were neck and neck for the championship. Chris Hemsworth, the actor that plays James Hunt in the film, was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia and got his start in Australian television shows. Now established as one of the best young stars in Hollywood thanks to a string of blockbuster hits including Thor and Snow White and the Huntsman, jumped at the chance to play the British racer. In this interview with Chris, we find out about his current projects, 64

why going fast isn’t always a good thing, and how to ride the line of danger.

What was it like when you first saw the finished film?

It was really exciting because I was completely taken with how well it’s shot, how well the story played, and the way Ron had pulled this together.

It’s a fascinating story because there’s the intense rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda and the psychology of that Formula 1 world. These guys lived with the looming threat of death and all, basically, for entertainment.

That element of danger was in every move they made on the track wasn’t it?

Oh absolutely, although since then the sport has got a lot safer. Nothing forces you to be in the moment more than the threat of death and that highly adrenaline charged race. I think that desire to be in the moment like that becomes addictive

and we, the fans, want to see people experience that. And certainly with the glamour and gallantry of F1 and the 1970s and the sexiness of it, you couldn’t have a better backdrop for a film.

One of the things that comes across in the film is just how precarious and temperamental those F1 cars were back then…

Yes, the slightest adjustment, whether it’s the width of the tail fin or the type of rubber on the tires or where they positioned the fuel tank, could make a huge difference. Everything came down to tenths of a second. That really made me appreciate the mechanics that work with the F1 teams. There were so many elements that came into play that allowed the drivers to do what they do.

Could you describe what it’s like to drive an F1 car?

I remember the first time I got into one of those cars, there’s the incredible roar of the engine and the whole thing is vibrating. You are locked into this little cocoon and your shoulders are rubbing the sides of the cabin and you feel that this car is an extension of your body. Once you get into that machine you immediately understand the addiction to that world and the adrenaline rush that comes with it. It hits you in the gut.

How much of the driving did you do?

We did about a month of prep learning to drive those cars, which was great fun and there’s quite a tricky clutch/accelerator transition that you have to get used to, they are not like regular cars. And you have really got to muscle the thing. During the film, most of the stuff we did was pulling in and out of the pits and we would fly into the pits at speed, break and pull the visor up, say a couple of lines and then take off again. And then a lot of the time obviously we would have stunt drivers to do the serious business.

So Rush is an appropriate title for the film?

Oh yes, there’s certainly a rush when you drive those cars. We were tossing that around for a while but I think it sums it up perfectly.

How is the family?

They’re wonderful and everyone is great. My wife and daughter are here with me in LA where I’m shooting at the moment with Michael Mann (Cyber) and then we’re off around the world on various locations for that and then I’ll be doing Ron’s next film. The first thing I thought when I finished Rush was ‘when can I get back onto a set with Ron, he’s the best”. I mentioned Heart of the Sea to him, he read it, and loved it and things took off from there.

The movie Rush will be playing at Cinescape starting September 26th. Visit their website at www.cinescape.com.kw or find them on Facebook: Cinescape - Kuwait National Cinema Company.

MONSOON

BE CREATIVE ON THE GO…

by Jaye Sonia

Let me be the first to tell you that pursuing the creative arts you love can be difficult. Writing while you’re on vacation, for instance, is never easy (especially when it’s convention time)! For a game designer, a freelance writer, an artist, or even a game enthusiast, this means keeping abreast of all things new, determining how it impacts your life, and choosing what to incorporate and what to leave behind. At conventions, it means sorting through all of the new products and previewing what’s scheduled for release – all while trying to keep your schedule free to actually enjoy all the cool things about conventions.

Thankfully, we geeks (and the tech enthusiasts that support us), have quite a few tricks up our sleeves to make life easier. For those of us who do this and travel quite a bit (which is common for expatriates and Kuwaitis alike), this means writing or working on the go. Laptop and tablets in hand, we venture out into the great unknown to pursue our passions – and to tell our tales.

In this article, I’m going to share a few of the 66

secrets of how we creative folks get so much done when we’re out of the office.

Keep it in a cloud – Tons of people talk about cloud computing and most of the folks I know in the business world make daily use of these services.

We creative folks are no different. If you’re like me (and travel as much as you can) using cloud-based services is not just convenient, it’s essential. Being able to access your project from anywhere in the world means that you can work on your novel on your morning commute or while in the business lounge at your airport. It means making use of every available network (see below) at your disposal and keeping all of your beloved articles backed up. For most of us, it also means having access across a number of devices, be it your phone, laptop, or tablet. Trust me when I tell you; if you can keep it in a cloud, do so.

Log on nicely – Not all of us have international roaming and data packages (I do, but it isn’t cheap), so don’t be afraid to use every available WiFi hotspot at your disposal. While most hotels

charge you a daily or even an hourly rate to log on, almost every reputable hotel worldwide has a business center and free WiFi (generally in the lobby) for patrons, as well as guests. Don’t be afraid to ask to use these spots. Most of the time, if you ask very nicely, hotels will give you a temporary password to use their lobby WiFi spots; even if you’re just waiting to meet a friend staying there.

Establish a relationship – When you’re going to conventions (or even vacationing in the same spot repeatedly), find small places you like and frequent them. Tip the staff well and get shake their hands. Because, while the local Starbucks might be awesome, finding those out of the way places – especially those spots independently owned – means you’re far more likely to meet long-term employees, managers, or even the owners. If you can establish a positive relationship with them, there is a far better chance they’ll make their locations as comfortable for you as possible, whether it means giving you that quiet little booth in the back, extra cream for your iced latté, or access to their WiFi. The added bonus, of course, is that you make the world a little smaller in the process.

Building bridges with people is always better than burning them.

Prepare – If you know you’re going to working (writing, researching, or finishing that art project) while abroad, prepare as much as you can ahead of time. The less you have to do while away from your office, the better. If you absolutely cannot avoid working on the road, have your outline ready and make good use of your location. Pick a spot that you feel comfortable in and, if you can, make that a place to be productive in. Try to avoid working in highly congested areas, especially if there is the chance of a lot of social interaction. You don’t want to be rude to folks and ignore them. But you don’t want to waste your time, either. If you can get your writing done while the rest of the world sleeps, do it.

Finally – Be flexible. Your time is at a premium so make sure you don’t waste it. That said, don’t keep a schedule so rigid that you miss out on all the wonders around you. If you’re in a new place, take the afternoon off and explore. Meet people and make friends. If you’re not naturally outgoing, go on scouting missions. Find those places you like best and work there. But be open to new things and look for new experiences. Chances are, if you do, you’ll have far more to write home about.

BAYAN DENTAL

bazaar health

TRANSITIONS

by Dr. Susannah J. Schuilenberg

We human beings often don’t handle change well. We will endure some very bad circumstances for a lot longer than what is good for us because what we know is less fearful than something new (or unknown).

As awful, or painful, or uncomfortable one may be, the status quo is familiar and mostly emotionally manageable.

Take a bad job. We will continue to show up for a job we hate, doing tasks we despise, for a boss whose interpersonal skills make Michael Scott (The Office) look good, all the while internally (and often externally) grumping about how much we dislike the situation. Surprisingly, research indicates we don’t handle positive changes much better. Even though the anticipated change is something we may have sought out, worked for, or been offered as an unexpected bonus, our internal emotional response may not be much different than when the change is negative. Here are a few reasons why this might be so: • Any kind of change requires more work/ effort. We have to wake up our Mental Supervisor and shut off the autopilot.

• There is uncertainty associated with change.

Will I know what to do? What if I’m not good at the new thing?

• We don’t know how to measure benefit in the new context. How will I know this was the right choice? When will I know this was the right choice?

What will I do if XYZ choice was a mistake?

• Previous history of bad/unsuccessful choices causes a lack of trust in our own judgment in the present.

We like routine. We prefer to know what is going to happen even when it might be bad/ painful/difficult. When we do something like change jobs, move house, get married, or end a relationship, we often struggle with feelings like sadness, irritability, depression, numbness, or a sense of being disconnected from the moment.

People are often surprised at the mixed bag of emotions that can happen with positive change.

If you’re facing a significant change in the near future, or in the middle of a change right now, there are some things you can do to minimize the emotional impact and maximize the benefits.

1. Remind yourself daily that there are few decisions that can’t be changed or revisited.

(Becoming a parent or dying seem pretty irrevocable to me, but I think most other choices in life can be at least modified.)

2. Deliberately take time to reflect on the past. What’s been accomplished (or not) what 68

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” ~ Lao Tzu has gone right (and wrong), and what you would do differently/better in the same situation in the future. Make a point of listing the ways the experience has changed you, for good or bad.

Without deliberately remembering, we are in danger of losing the good parts of that time.

Even the most traumatic experience can provide an opportunity for personal development, if only by virtue of having overcome adversity.

3. Plan to commemorate what you are leaving behind. A job, a bad situation, an unhappy relationship. It doesn’t matter if what you’re changing is positive or negative – find a tangible way to mark that season in your life.

The point is to acknowledge that this period in your life happened, and you’re moving on.

4. Look to the future – one year, five years – and decide where you want to be. Set some measurable, achievable goals for this new season in your life.

5. Finally, if your emotional response to the change in your life causes you to pull

back from investing in the change itself, find someone to talk to about the ambivalence and emotional chaos. Just being able to tell someone objective and neutral (therapists or life coaches are a good choice) about your struggles is often enough to make sense of the process for yourself.

It’s very difficult to fully appreciate new opportunities without letting go of the old.

Having gleaned all the benefit possible from the past, turn mentally and emotionally to face forward, and embrace the future.

Imagine the possibilities…

Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg is a Canadian psychologist traveling the world on a busman’s holiday. Bossy from birth, compassionate by choice, and funny by accident, Dr. Susannah writes about anything that catches her attention. Visit: www.soorcenter.com or follow her on Twitter: @drsusannah

CHAMPION

‫كرة القدم النسائية‬ ‫‪by Strawberry Girl‬‬

‫ليس من المألوف في الكويت رؤية النساء يلعبن كرة‬ ‫القدم‪ ،‬بالرغم من كون هذه اللعبة األكثر شعبية بالنسبة‬ ‫للرجال‪ .‬إال أنه يوجد بعض األماكن التي يمكن للنساء‬ ‫ممارسة هذه اللعبة فيها مثل المدارس‪ ،‬و الجامعات‪ ،‬أو‬ ‫حتى نادي الفتاة‪ ،‬إال أنها غير كافية‪ .‬وألن هواة هذه اللعبة‬ ‫ليس لديهم فرص كثيرة لممارستها‪ ،‬تتوفر لهن فرصة‬ ‫المنافسة في هذه اللعبة عن طريق نادي كرة القدم‬ ‫النسائية (‪ )Fitfootball Club‬الموجود قرب أبراج الكويت‬ ‫على الواجهة البحرية‪.‬‬ ‫‪.‬‬ ‫لقد بدأ النادي فعالياته قبل ثالث سنوات بفئة الرجال‪،‬‬ ‫و من ثم تم إضافة فئة األطفال‪ .‬قبل عدة أشهر افتتح‬ ‫النادي فئة النساء‪ ،‬ليصبح بذلك أول نادي تدريب لكرة قدم‬ ‫النساء في الكويت‪ .‬في اليوم األول إلفتتاح فصل النساء‬ ‫إشتركت ‪ 14‬امرأة في الحصة‪ .‬و تعلق راوية الهاجري‪،‬‬ ‫المديرة التنفيذية لنادي فيت فوتبول قائلة‪« :‬الكثير من‬ ‫الكويتيات تحب لعب كرة القدم و تلعبها في الشاليه مثال‪،‬‬ ‫و اآلن أتيحت لهن الفرصة لممارسة هذه الرياضة مع‬ ‫مدربتين»‪.‬‬ ‫‪ Fitfootball‬ليس فقط لعبة‪ .‬إنه تجربة فريدة حيث‬ ‫يجمع كرة القدم مع التمرين الجسدي‪ .‬و تضيف راوية ‪:‬‬ ‫«نحن نؤمن بأن لعبة كرة القدم يمكن أن تعمل كبرنامج‬ ‫إلنقاص الوزن أيضا‪ ،‬حيث أن التمارين الرياضية من‬

‫العوامل الحيوية التي تعمل على إنقاص الوزن‪ ،‬و هذا‬ ‫ما تحصل عليه المتدربة من خالل كرة القدم‪ .‬و تقوم‬ ‫المدربات المتخصصات بتكيف الالعبات من الناحية التقنية‬ ‫والتكتيكية من خالل وضعهن في مواقع مختلفة من اللعبة‬ ‫لرفع قدرة الالعبة‪».‬‬ ‫يختلف جدول الحصص في األسبوع بين مرة أو اثنتين‬ ‫طبقا لعدد المشتركات‪ .‬التسجيل مفتوح للنساء من جميع‬ ‫األعمار و الجنسيات‪ .‬و تؤكد راوية أنه أثناء حصص النساء‬ ‫يكون الملعب مغلق للنساء فقط حتى يشعرن باإلرتياح‬ ‫أثناء ممارسة اللعبة في محيط و بيئة نسائية‪ .‬و حتى‬ ‫السيارة التي تقوم بنقلهن إلى الملعب من مواقف السيارات‬ ‫تقودها امرأة‪.‬‬ ‫حصص ال ‪ Fitfootball‬ال تقتصرعلى لعب كرة‬ ‫القدم فقط ألنها تشمل التمارين الرياضية ولذلك يحضر‬ ‫المشتركون ليشعروا باللياقة البدنية‪ ،‬و إنقاص الوزن‬ ‫واإلستمتاع بلعب كرة القدم مجتمعة‪ .‬الكثير من الرجال‬ ‫إشتركوا إلنقاص وزنهم‪ ،‬و قاموا بتسجيل وزنهم قبل بدأ‬ ‫الدورة و ثم زانوا أنفسهم بعد عدة أسابيع و قد سرتهم‬ ‫النتائج‪ .‬وكذلك الحال بالنسبة للنساء اللواتي يشتركن‬ ‫لإلستمتاع بالفتنس والرياضة في أجواء ممتعة‪.‬‬ ‫يوفر النادي للنساء مدربتين محترفتين من مركز‬ ‫فوزية السلطان للعالج الطبيعي‪ ،‬إحداهن تدرب كرة القدم‬ ‫بينما األخرى تدرب التمارين الرياضية‪ .‬و صرحت أكسينيا‪،‬‬

‫وهي مدربة كرة القدم للنساء واألوالد بين ‪ 8-5‬سنوات أن‬ ‫تدريب األوالد يتطلب جهدا أكبر‪ « .‬مدة الحصة ساعتين‪ ،‬و‬ ‫أظن أن النساء كن رائعات ولعبن بجهد كبير‪ .‬أظن أيضا بأن‬ ‫النساء مواظبات أكثر على الحضور ألنهن حضرن لإلستمتاع‬ ‫بوقتهن‪ ،‬بينما يأتي بعض األوالد مجبرين من والديهم وال‬ ‫يحبون هذه اللعبة‪ ،‬فال يكونوا مهتمين جدا بهذا النشاط»‪.‬‬ ‫من جهتها تشرح المدربة األخرى معالي سالمين‪،‬‬ ‫مدربة التمارين الرياضية بأن كرة القدم مع التمارين‬ ‫الرياضية تحسن الحالة الجسدية للمشتركة‪« .‬لعب كرة‬ ‫القدم ال يعني أن تفقد الالعبة أنوثتها‪ .‬يجب على المرأة أن‬ ‫تكون قوية حتى تشعر بالثقة بالنفس وتتمكن من الدفاع‬ ‫عن نفسها في حالة تعرضها للهجوم‪ .‬و يمكنها أن تحافظ‬ ‫على أنوثتها في الوقت ذاته‪ .‬الذهاب للنادي الصحي قد‬ ‫يكون ممال‪ ،‬لذلك تأتي النساء هنا لتمارس الرياضة وتلعب‬ ‫كرة القدم حتى تستمتع بوقتها»‪.‬‬ ‫و تضيف سالمين أن ال ‪ Fitfootball‬يعتبر أيضا نشاطا‬ ‫إجتماعيا ألن المشاركات يلتقين بنساء أخريات هناك و‬ ‫يتعرفن على أناس جدد وذلك يحسن المزاج‪ .‬و ترى أن‬ ‫ذلك أفضل من الذهاب إلى استشاري أو طبيب نفسي أو‬ ‫الجلوس في المنزل‪ .‬بعد اإلنتهاء من التمرين يغادرن إلى‬ ‫منازلهن ويتناولن العشاء‪ ،‬ثم يخلدن للنوم بذهن صافي‪.‬‬ ‫«هذا أفضل من اصطحاب المشاكل إلى السرير‪ ،‬ثم‬ ‫اإلستيقاظ في الصباح مع معاناة الصداع»‪.‬‬ ‫‪70‬‬

Japanese Restaurant

SAKURA

bazaar he said/she said

“HAPPY WIFE, HAPPY LIFE” by bazaar staff

In the beginning...there was a him and a her - and nobody’s agreed on anything since. In this column, we present both sides, as if we may eventually come to a conclusion...you decide!

he said...

Ok, while I mentally prepare myself for the deluge of backlash I will receive for all that I am about to pontificate on for this ultra-touchy subject, I want to start with some basic thoughts on the subject of relationships in general: I truly and unequivocally believe in equality in a relationship.

This is not lip service, nor is it said to carry any undue weight with the women out there. In fact, the thought that some relationships do not work this way, is to me, a foreign concept. Further, given vastly different cultural expectations of what a relationship should be, there is a good chance that I have lost many of you already.

There are many locally who might see such definitions as a weakness of a man, though I couldn’t disagree more. I believe that it takes more strength to allow for equality, than it does to blindly assert power, and thus the stronger man will always be the one who helps his spouse ahead of him, rather than pushes her behind. That said, that does not mean there are not roles that my wife and I both readily, and not so readily, fall into (manly and womanly-type roles, at times, though not always). However, it is important to note that sometimes this equality does not always work out in favor of my significant other.

With this in mind, lets talk about the phrase “happy wife, happy life,” and dissect what it is really saying. On the surface level, I agree that this is a wonderfully placating response to whatever it is that my wife might want from me, and that by agreeing with her 100%, I will no doubt be in for less conflict in my life. For some people, that lack of conflict is all they are looking for. However, in my opinion, that does not make for a happy marriage overall. I think this takes only a quick-fix type of mentality, while actually creating a gap between two-people that will further open up and expand over time. I would rather have the daily fight about the thing at hand than ignore it until one of us is so unhappy that we break. One simply cannot swallow pride and preference over the long-term without feeling at least a want to get out (regardless of whether they follow through or not).

One of the things that has been quite interesting about this little marriage thing, is noting that I am (so I have been told) a strong-willed man, who has married a (so I am telling!) strong-willed woman.

72

To say that this may leave us open for conflict would be an understatement. However, I happen to be of the belief that fighting is a good thing—so long as it is done in a respectful and safe manner. Any success that we have had as a couple can be attributed almost solely to our ability to fight well! We need to be able to discuss the places in which our perspectives are different, or we are in for trouble in the long run.

The problem with phrases like “happy wife, happy life,” is that they are true to an extent, and easy for the woman to agree with, as at face-value it seems to place her preferences over the mans’. How could she ever disagree with a statement that so obviously places her at the helm of her destiny? However, the deeper reveal proves this an oversimplified view that actually does not value her opinion at all. It says, in short, let her buy those KD 1000 shoes, regardless of what it might do to that bank account overall, as she is just a silly woman who does not understand why that might not be appropriate given your common goals! It says drop everything you’re doing and go fix that thing in the house, rather than show her how to potentially do it herself, as she wouldn’t understand anyway.

Say what you will about who should do what around the house, the checkbook, and society at large, but for my part, I would want my wife to be as empowered as I would want my (future) daughters to be, and part of that includes knowing why they can’t have everything they want just because they want it. It also includes being strong enough to know that in the end, they do not need me, as sure as they do not need any man.

All that is to say nothing of the fact, that anyone who only does something for their partner all the time, is being taken advantage of, which will never serve the long-term prospects of a healthy relationsh–– (oops, sorry I didn’t get to finish this article. I had to pick up my hamati from the airport, paint my wife’s toenails and go buy her a new handbag).

GRRRR!!

raahhhhrrr!

I cannot begin to stress how there is such universal truth in this statement. My dearest male friends, you need to rest assured that the day you decide to get married, your happiness will be directly proportional to that of your spouses. Like it or not, it is an absolute truth.

There’s something that happens to the entire notion of ‘find your own happiness’, and all that lovely philosophical mumbo jumbo when it comes to marriage. I can hear the feminist cries as I type this sentence, I’m aware that they disagree profusely, but I simply don’t care.

Whether males or females, or both, wish to dispute this argument, I’m here to tell them that they’re wrong.

Just like a typical loving wife would be extremely annoyed, and upset for her husband’s shortfalls and endless bad days at the office, she expects the same from him. Yes, my happiness, as a wife, guarantees that I will love you more and work harder to make our lives happier. Exhibit A: If my better half thinks that he could escape my unhappiness when he’s at work while I’m miserable at home tending after the children, he’s gravely mistaken. I will make it shown to him, via every social media tool I could install on my smartphone-Whatsapp, Twitter, Facebook messages, he will know I’m not happy. If a rant to the social media gods about how the kids are driving me crazy at home doesn’t capture his attention, and if he dares to pretend that he’s too busy to read about it yet he is perfectly happy to post the sweetest birthday wishes on his female coworker’s Facebook wall … well…. Eventually he will come home, and trust me when I say, it won’t be pretty. And that’s not the happiest of pictures now, is it?

Any typical husband believes he’s fully knowledgeable when it comes to fulfilling his ‘husbandly’ duties, and by simply assuming his Alpha male role, therefore the pretty wife should want nothing more. My dearest male companions: you couldn’t be more wrong. A wife’s happiness, for ensuring not only your physical but also your mental wellbeing, can be attained with the simplest of gestures. Understanding a wife’s need to shop will effectively ensure that

...she said

you make it to the next guy’s night. Supporting and encouraging that need to shop is a totally different story; that automatically results in her picking up that dress you liked but she thought was too inappropriate. Helping out around the house will score you the best homemade double chocolate cake with all its delicious fixings, or that lamb roast dinner that takes an arduous three hours to prepare. Now, doing the housework when you’re not even asked, or Godforbid nagged to do so, makes for a triple score.

Now, do you see where this is going?

When we practically consider this statement, while taking a closer look at the everyday dynamics of a couple’s married life, you will see the light. A happier wife will ultimately make for a happier life. Start with these tips right now for eternal marital bliss: •

Letting her buy that Chanel bag will pay off for you in the future, just wait for it.

• Taking your wife’s side, at least once, when a heated debate arises with your mom.

Yes, man. You know you do it. We’ve seen you do it. It now needs to stop.

• Not criticizing your wife when she’s craving chocolate, and NOT reminding her of the latest diet she’s on, will earn you some newfound respect. Understanding ever y wife’s mysterious relationship with chocolate is not easy.

• Acknowledging that she’s been talking to you, even though your glazed expression may beg to differ, for the last fifteen minutes, will ultimately make her happier, and actually make her want to stop asking you, ‘what are you thinking about?’ all the time!

• Recognizing the astounding power of what hormones can do to a woman- WITHOUT belittling or mocking it. That merits the ‘husband of the year’ award.

• And finally, for the record, it’s the outfit that makes her fat, definitely not her body.

Always.

Stay tuned for the next chapter in the heated battle of the sexes.

73

closet Bibi

TRANSITIONAL FASHION

by Bibi Al-Falah

As the summer months are coming to an end, we are lucky that we still have a long way to go before the cold desert air sets in. You have probably stocked your closet with new additions from your latest summer trips, and I for one had a blast checking out the stores in London this summer. Now that we are approaching the winter months, it’s all about transition!

Focus on buying pieces that can transform from summer to winter with the simple addition of opaque tights or a light jacket. Let’s go through some of the pieces that every girl should have as we breeze our way into winter fashion.

Dresses that can transition from warm to cold weather are lifesavers when you are looking to salvage pieces from your summer closet, and this doesn’t mean they have to be black or grey. Invest in easy cotton shift dresses that you can wear now and add a coat and tights to in a few months. If you buy too many linen dresses, these won’t be useful to you at all in the winter season. Likewise, if you buy heavy wool and velvet dresses or skirts, these will never make it to your summer closet edit. Focus on more neutral fabrics and colors that are easily matched with winter hues, like jewel toned purple or deep red.

Just as fabric limits us on dresses and skirts, the same goes for pants. I try to pick pant fabrics that don’t have to be stuck in a certain season in order to work.

The selection of jeans and dress pants at Harvey Nichols never lets me down, and they are always high quality as well as impeccably stylish. My most recent purchase was a two toned pair of pants that would probably remind you of a tuxedo; white with a thick black stripe down each side. They are not too heavy or light so I can easily pair them with a thin cotton top in the summer or a turtleneck in the 74

winter. Also, skinny jeans are great for both seasons because you can tuck them under your favorite boots in colder weather. These don’t have to be boring either, as we always see in Topshop’s rainbow of jeans colors. Still, colored jeans should be worn within reason in the winter, since bright peach and light blue pairs will probably look out of place with your leather jacket.

Layering pieces are the smartest addition to your wardrobe for any season, and I advise to go with brands because buying quality really makes a difference. You have to have the perfect black, white and grey t-shirts which always save the day in summer when you don’t know what to throw over your jeans or in winter when you have your jacket ready and just need anything to wear under it before heading out the door.

A great brand for this is LNA, which has the softest fabrics. I also found that COS has really useful neutral and basic wardrobe pieces.

Other than wardrobe staples like t-shirts, the most important layering piece in any wardrobe is a great scarf. I love bright scarves in the winter because the rest of your outfit is usually dark toned.

Nowadays we can find beautiful scarves in any store, but there’s nothing like high quality pashminas and the highly coveted and ever so illegal shahtoosh scarves that we sometimes get our hands on.

Wearing a simple black or grey top with a brightly hued, soft-as-butter scarf is always an effortless look.

Whether your style is edgy and daring or soft and feminine, the most important thing is to have fun and feel good in whatever you choose to wear. If I had one piece of advice to give, it would be to organize your closet by category and color because this makes your life 100 times easier when getting dressed.

Have a stylish September everyone!

ACQUA

H&M AUTUMN COLLECTION Drama with a tomboy spirit

Modern drama is at the heart of the H&M Autumn Collection 2013, presented first on the catwalk of Paris Fashion Week, and now debuting in around 200 stores worldwide this Fall, as well as online (www.hm.com/kw). Created by H&M’s own design team, the collection mixes tailoring with glamour to create contrasts full of a tomboy spirit.

TAILOR IT

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DELICATE GLAMOU R

UTILITY CHIC

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bazaar apps Apps making life more productive!

SUNRISE

HABIT LIST

RECIPE CONVERT

DUNNO

Let’s face it, no one wants to do the math when they are looking at a recipe and it doesn’t have the units you want. This is where the Recipe Convert app comes in, and is now available at the Play Store. Convert volume and weight measurements in recipes and makes scaling servings yields up or down easy. Will also convert grams to cups and values can be entered and displayed as either fractions or decimals. Perfect for professional cooks/ bakers, as well as all you amateur chefs at home! Available free on Android devices.

Maybe you’ve been reading an article and a term popped out at you, but you didn’t want to stop reading for long to research it. Or you were sitting at a dinner party, and someone mentioned a movie you hadn’t heard of, but you didn’t have time to hit up IMDB or Wikipedia and read about it. The team behind Dunno calls them brainslaps, and they don’t want you to miss another one ever again. Dunno is a free cloud-based app that does research (in other words it Googles) for you while you wait. Available for free on Apple devices.

BREAKUPTEXT

TOGGL TIMER

There’s now a simple test to find out if you are heartless: If you download and use this new iOS app - for the truly, deeply lazy, and/ or very busy — there’s a good chance you’re frozen inside. BreakupText makes it easier than ever to end things with your significant other. No more awkward conversations or phone calls. With BreakupText, you can end your relationship in just a few taps. Once you ask the app to “Begin the End” you must tell it whether you’re breaking up with a serious or casual partner; if the reason is a loss in interest, finding someone else or death by bear attack; and finally, whether or not you have a soul.

Perfect for the multi-tasking entrepreneur or freelancer, Toggl provides an easy way to track time spent on projects. Just type in what you’re working on and click. Click again to stop tracking…or if you forget to click the second time, manually type in the approximate time that was spent. A threestage hierarchy – client, project, and task – enables ultimate organization and can be flagged as ‘billable’ for later. Unsure where your time went? Get an instant breakdown of which projects are consuming your time.

Pie chart, bar chart, whatever you like. Also works offline and syncs when back online to ensure you never lose data. Available for free on both Apple and Android devices.

This app turns a traditional calendar into a to-do list. The home display, showing two weeks at a time, easily expands into a full calendar view when pulled down, while a streamed list of events scrolls along below. The app also pulls in information from Facebook, Google (including maps) and LinkedIn to ensure you have directions to any appointments, access to communications with other attendees, and even displays the weather in case you need help choosing an outfit. It takes the calendar, an often isolated application, and loops it in with all of the apps.

Now that is one efficient app. Available free at the Apple Store.

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How are those New Year’s resolutions going? If you are anything like me…they aren’t. However, it might be worth looking to this app for inspiration!

Habit List allows users to track habits and provide visual representations of the progress.

This encourages more success by seeing the results of your hard work, or lack thereof. The app is essentially a list of items that a user would like to complete on a certain schedule. It is always encouraging to see most if not all of your habits completed several days in a row and seeing the completed double-digit days is motivational for those difficult times. You will see your resolutions turned into habits in no time! Available for $1.99 at the Apple Store.

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WEDDING REGISTRY MADE EASY The Wedding Gift Service by Williams-Sonoma by bazaar staff

Every bride-to-be knows that her fairytale marriage doesn’t end with her special wedding day.

In fact, it marks the beginning of a beautiful, and sometimes challenging, journey. After my pilgrimage from bride-to-be to fully-fledged newlywed, I highly recommend my fellow upcoming brides to prepare themselves for the journey ahead. From flexing your culinary talents in the kitchen to managing what would become your future dream home—every bride needs her tools. For these tools, let WilliamsSonoma, the luxury home furnishings and gourmet cookware specialist, be your wedding partner with their dedicated Wedding Gift Service.

Having a Registry, or Wedding Gift list, is one of the best things you could do as a bride-to-be. You might think you have it all figured out, trust me, you’ll forget so many things! Or, you’ll end up with 5 toasters, for instance, and would have to go through the hassle of returning and exchanging gifts. When you sign up for the Wedding Gift Service at Williams-Sonoma, you get to furnish every room in your new home with your significant other, the way YOU want it. You’ll find an exclusive assortment of gourmet products for cooking, and luxury products for entertaining and living. They’re designed to last a lifetime and you won’t find them anywhere else. If the idea of creating a list baffles you, then you shouldn’t feel deterred, as there’s a Williams-Sonoma’s dedicated Wedding Gift Concierge to make the process easy and enjoyable.

As an added touch of exclusivity, you can even make your gifts more memorable with a monogram. Many registry items can easily be personalized with the initials, names or phrases of your choice. This way, not only have you simplified the process for yourself, but also for friends and loved ones who want to contribute to your happiness in starting a new home.

First things first: the kitchen. If you believe that research and practice make for culinary success, then you’re right on the mark. If Julia Child can master the art of French cooking, then with the right tools, you’re well on your way to owning the kitchen with all of its challenges. Whether you’re looking to experiment with new recipes or you love tried and true family favorites and wish to recreate your own version, Williams-Sonoma has a beautiful range of cookware, electronic appliances and cooking tools to make cooking and presentation effortlessly elegant.

There’s something charmingly rustic about castiron cookware, and the French Staub enameled collection emanates with comfort. The colorful cast iron cookware, now available in Emerald at WilliamsSonoma, reflects meticulous attention to detail that enhance every dish you prepare. These are designed to last a lifetime, from specifically engineered textured cooking surfaces and self-basting lids to the innovative multi-coat enameling. The beautiful, heatretaining pieces go directly from the stovetop or oven 80

directly to the table and are dishwater safe. Also for added kitchen functionality, the All-Clad collection serves to deliver flawless cooking, from simple sautés to special dinners. And for the ultimate souschef, any, if not all, of the KitchenAid electrics need to be on your Wedding Gift list at Williams-Sonoma.

KitchenAid mixers, for instance, come with a myriad selection of attachments that shorten your mise en place time, making the process of baking the perfect birthday cake, or making those scrumptious breakfast pancakes, a breeze.

Now that you’ve conquered the kitchen, and your Wedding Gift list is well underway, it’s time to consider how your culinary delicacies will be presented at the dinner table. At Williams-Sonoma, setting the table

is anything but mundane. You can get creative in matching your dinnerware with its accompanying flatware, stunning glassware and linens that speak to your personal style. The collection of fine china in store delivers effortless chic to the dinner table, turning your delicious meal into an artful masterpiece. For timeless elegance, we recommend mixing plain white china with exquisite patterns like those of the Wedgewood Renaissance Gold.

Known for its decorative motifs by the neoclassical architect and designer Robert Adam, this iconic dinnerware pattern comes in several colors, finished with hand-lined gold band. Moreover, you can personalize your china from Williams-Sonoma for certain product lines, where your dinnerware is

monogrammed with the initials of your choice. Make sure your dinnerware choice is accompanied by adding a selection of fine crystal Riedel Glassware to your Wedding Gift list. You can even make your wedding day extra special, by choosing from the wide selection of place settings for your reception dinner or wedding soiree for inimitable elegance.

After you’ve completed your list for the kitchen and dinner table, it’s time to pay attention to where you would be spending most of your time, the living and sleeping quarters. Giving form, and a personal touch, to your home is simplified at WilliamsSonoma, as there is a collection of luxurious living, dining and bedroom furniture just perfect for you.

Make sure to select some items for the bedroom for

your Wedding Gift list, such as the finest bed linens for the bedroom in the form of the Percale Border bed linens, which boast a 300-thread count Egyptian cotton. You’ll absolutely fall in love with the clean lines of the Gramercy Bed, along with luxurious bath accessories such as the Chambers Heritage Towels set. Here, the added option of personalization is also available, as all bed linens and towels can be monogrammed with your name or initials in either English or Arabic. For the living room, the Addison Sofa will make for a conversation starter at your next gathering as its esthetically pleasing silhouette, its slim arms and interesting nail head trim, will capture the attention of your guests. Last but definitely not least, when it comes to selecting your dining table,

careful consideration is of the utmost importance.

After all, this is the place where you will host many dinners, have family lunches, and even spend time planning your days ahead. For this, the strong lines of the Hermitage Dining Table, simple yet ornate, will fit your lifestyle perfectly.

If you’re about to start the journey of a lifetime, choose Williams-Sonoma to be your wedding partner.

It’s as simple as calling your store to arrange a private consultation to discuss your needs. They’ll make setting up your first home together easy for you, your family and friends. Williams-Sonoma is located in the Grand Avenue – The Avenues. Please call 2228 3101 or visit www.williams-sonoma.me.

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CARPISA

Italian chic at The Mall by bazaar staff

Keeping up with the latest handbag trends, whether to accessorize your casual or business attire is not only the mark of the avid style seeker, it is a true calling. Bringing Italian flair with competitive prices, Carpisa directly speaks to this type of trendsetter.

Located in the swanky district, The Mall, at phase III of The Avenues, Carpisa offers rich, varied collections that are all based on Italian designs. For those with a passion for staying in touch with the latest trends, four seasonal collections crafted with their trademark Italian design in mind, at great price points, mean that your style is in check, all year round.

For effortless work chic, both women and men have the option of choosing from different briefcase styles, all fitted with modern compartments for easy organization. Along with a small leather goods collection for men: wallets, card holders, and much more, Carpisa offers fashionable handbags, a distinct line of suitcases, and other fashion accessories. Devoting their resources to constant research of the latest color and style trends, rest assured that Carpisa delivers the latest fashions with every collection available at The Avenues boutique.

Upon our visit to Carpisa, we were absolutely blown away with the collections in store. For the travel season, look no further than luggage in bright neon colors, compact carry-ons for those quick weekend getaways, along with chic travel totes to hold all of those last minute items you forgot to pack in your luggage. Other travel accessories include travel wallets, passport holders, as well as vanity cases. Look out for the nautical inspired totes; these are great for jet setting chic! Also for beach side style while you’re on holiday, we fell in love with the colorful straw bags, along with see-through zip-up cases and beach bags in electrifying neon shades.

Travel aside, ladies will be thrilled to see the selections of satchels available in store. We called it, ‘satchels galore’! Why? Imagine the iconic shape in soft and supple leathers, in seasonal shades of blue and green, coral, color-blocked styles, perforated leather, and much more! Different shapes make for added flexibility, so you can have your chic mini satchel for an evening outing, or opt for the larger styles that flawlessly take your outfit from day to night. Also, don’t miss a wide selection of handbags in the latest metallic shades that will add instant style to any outfit.

Speaking of night, this brings us to night time glamour: don’t be afraid to buy as many clutches as your heart desires! Not only are the prices fantastic at Carpisa, their evening bag selection will surely impress. Think braided leather styles, beautifully embellished, luxe materials such as 82

satin and silk—choosing any one of the stunning clutches at Carpisa will perfect your evening attire.

Although set up in 2001, Carpisa has evolved into a stylish phenomenon in just a few years, taking the retail market by storm via their stylish collections and competitive prices. With over 500 stores in Italy alone, and 35 abroad based

throughout Europe and the Middle East, the world of Carpisa captures the attention of style seeking handbags and accessories lovers alike.

Carpisa is located at The Mall, phase III of The Avenues. For more information, please call: 2220 0542 or visit www.carpisa.it.

POWERHOUSE

bazaar fiction

IT’S NOT MY FAULT

by Craig Loomis

There is simply no other way to describe it: when she gets up and leaves the coffee shop, she ever so stealthily walks sideways. She does this to keep an eye on him. Unfortunately, she is not very good at sideways walking and needs more practice. He smiles because he can’t believe he is that important, that all of this is for him.

In the one hand she carries a shopping bag full of two newly-bought sweaters, one gray, one white; in the other she has a firm grasp on her cellphone. If she were to suddenly stumble and fall, her face would have no chance whatsoever.

Her hijab is a deep sea purple-green, framing her cheeks and eyes perfectly, and for some reason this makes all the difference, and so, taking a last sip of oncehot coffee, he follows her.

It does not take him long to understand that she is used to being followed.

She takes long purposeful strides that signal this is a kind of race, if not a race then a contest for sure, and he is to follow her, if he can. Although he has only been to England twice--once for a football match and once to watch his mother and sisters shop--he knows enough to think of the word ‘keen.’ He is not keen on chasing her. And, by the time she reaches the pharmacy, she, in that special female way, senses this and slows down; and daring to turn full-faced to look back, she sees he is nowhere in sight. Slipping on her sunglasses, she drifts over to the nearest shop window to stare into a silky display of glittering watches.

As a rule she does not care for malls unless it is with friends or family. But today is different because she needed to buy the two sweaters on sale, 50% off, a sale that ends today. If she had been with Sara, her closest, loudest cousin, the question would have been: “Who needs a sweater? This is Kuwait, one of the hottest places on the planet. Everybody knows this.” But knowing Sara she would have been prepared, answering, “As you know in December, January and February it can be cool here, even cold, Sah? Everybody knows this. Besides, . . .” holding up two fingers, “… besides, number one, everything is on sale, and number two, why would they even sell sweaters if nobody bought them? Sah?” If Sara had been there, she would have frowned at this last part, and then thought about saying something clever, only to change her mind at the last moment.

Meanwhile, there is no Sara here, and she hasn’t stopped staring at the watches she does not need, does not care about, when he slowly catches up, stopping to stare into an adjunct shop window that is selling blouses. This, he knows, is bad luck on his part,--staring at women’s blouses, but he has no choice. Together they watch but not watch one another. Finally, all done looking 84

into a shop window she cares nothing about, she looks down at her cellphone and pushes buttons as if there is someone who needs talking to when, really, there is no one.

Come to think of it, there is nothing about him that is special, that should have her walking sideways, striding briskly through a surprisingly empty mall.

He wears a plain white t-shirt with a too-small pocket that is holding something like a red pen, but no, that can’t be right, but certainly something red. That, and she can see that he just had his hair cut, there is a fresh paleness around his ears, along his neck. So nothing intriguingly special as young men go, and yet, …yet…what? He stared at her? While the ‘what’ lingers, for the time being she is content to look into the glitter of watches as sweepers sweep, shopkeepers talk on cellphones, stare into computer screens, some of them slanting in doorways, asking anybody who gets too close if they would like to be sprayed with something that smells good: perfume from China, cologne from Germany, or perhaps both.

She secretly likes it that he does not speak to her, does not approach her; in some way that she is not entirely sure about, this is more good than bad.

The haircut coolness along the back of his neck has him rubbing that place, a small rawness that stings if he touches it just right. It is then, in mid-stroke of his neck, that he hears a bang and jerks to see. But, like always, it is nothing: some mall sweeper has dropped a tin can the size of a baby’s head, the banging echoing up and down the empty mall. Done looking and the mall sweeper saying sorry to anyone who will listen, when he turns back to look but not to look, she is gone. He looks down at this fingers and then back at the shop window that is crowded with pink and red and green blouses, and then back to the mall sweeper, who is just now picking up his dropped can, that he decides, yes, it serves him right. That yes, he needs more practice, or at least something like it. Sighing.

Looking back down at his hands, at his chewed fingernails. More practice.

Just before she takes the turn that will take her out of the mall and to her driver, who is patiently double parked, waiting, exchanging honkings with whomever challenges him, she too will sigh and take off her sunglasses and then immediately put them back on, which will make no sense at all if somebody were watching her, and she thinks that yes, it serves her right, but then again, it’s not her fault, not really; there are others to blame. And she is so certain about this last part that if you were close enough you would hear her say, “It’s not my fault.”

KICKERS

Discovery Mall 2291 3672 KickersKuwait

The Mall, The Avenues 2220 0688

HYPERLOOP PLANS UNVEILED

by Emi Kolawole

Tesla Motors and SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk announced his plans in August for the “Hyperloop” — a high-speed transportation system that, ideally, could take passengers between San Francisco and Los Angeles for a fraction of the cost and faster than the $68 billion high-speed rail system scheduled to begin running in 2028. Musk has said the Hyperloop, as he envisions it, could get you from San Francisco to Los Angeles — about 560 kms — in about 30 minutes, traveling at about the speed of sound.

As exciting as all of that sounds, the key word here is “ideally.” Musk described the Hyperloop at the D11 conference in May, and the outline was less than scientific. “It’s a cross between a Concord and a rail gun and an air hockey table. If they did a threeway and had a baby somehow,” said Musk, you’d have a kicking, screaming Hyperloop.

Musk calls the plans an “alpha design,” and requested “critical feedback” from the general public via Twitter back in July. Also, he is publishing the plans as open source, and said on a conference call with Tesla investors that he has no plans to build the Hyperloop himself.

That’s not surprising, considering he already runs two other companies — rocket-builder SpaceX and Tesla — where he and his teams are tackling challenges in the commercial space flight and electric car markets.

Recently, Musk and fellow space-travel enthusiast and Virgin Group founder and chairman Richard Branson participated in a Google for Entrepreneurs “hangout,” livestreamed on YouTube. During the question-andanswer session, Musk opened the window a bit wider on his thought process.

“I originally started thinking about it when I read about California’s high-speed rail project, which was somewhat disappointing because it’s not a very high-speed rail,” said Musk of the plans for the nation’s first high-speed rail system, which would include stops in San Diego and Sacramento.

Musk went on to cite the project’s average speed and, as he saw it, less-than-direct proposed route. “So, it’s actually worse than, say, taking the plane.”

“Why would one want to do a big expensive project like that, which is slower than alternatives and will likely be more expensive than alternatives,” Musk asked rhetorically. “You want the future to be better than the past - or at least I do, quite a bit.”

Taking into account the round-trip distance between the two cities (over 500kms) and factoring in the time it would take to ascend and descend in a plane as well as taking into 86

account a way to eliminate potential weather delays, Musk settled on the Hyperloop.

He went on to say he envisioned the Hyperloop as a system that would transport people at “effectively faster than the speed of sound,” and that it would involve a tube with a partial vacuum.

The Hyperloop isn’t an entirely new idea.

Business Insider reported in May that the Rand Corp. published a paper in 1972 by

physicist Robert Salter proposing a high-speed transportation system called the Very High Speed Transit System (VHST). (In 1978, Salter also wrote a paper on a trans-planetary subway system called “Planetran” that could cross the United States in roughly an hour.)

Salter writes that the VHST could potentially take passengers from Los Angeles to New York in 21 minutes. The impediment wasn’t science, according to Salter, but politics.

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THE STATE OF EDUCATION Long live the pen!

by Ayman Nassar

One of the most important lessons we learn is that life is dynamic, ever-changing, constantly evolving. Primitive man invented the wheel and modern man took that rudimentary object and exceled it to proportions that would never have appeared in their wildest dreams; the wheels of a car and the cogs that pretty much make up the entirety of technology.

However, there comes a time when we ponder whether some things should remain unaffected by the advancement of technology at such a break neck speed. Take for example, schooling.

Who amongst us does not look back at their early years of education with a tear in their eye and a smile on their lips? Sitting in class anxiously gazing out of the window at the fun within arm’s reach yet still so distant, eagerly awaiting the ringing of the bell to signal break time, where one would run around and be as merry as can be, before the wardens took them back to their holding cells, I mean classrooms.

It is the early days of kindergarten all the way through to primary school that are most at risk in today’s world. For it is in those days that we develop our creativity. Technology seems to have dulled our creativity and made us fall addicted to its comfortable ways.

Back in those days, art was a form of expression, students were given every tool in art class to develop their creativity and have a tangible end result: the oddly shaped cups made of clay that would later be painted and glazed with glue; the balsa wood houses given further house appeal by incorporating a breakfast cereal box in the mix; the paper-mâché designs that linked the “grown up” items of newspapers and flour from the kitchen into all sorts of objects; the portraits and pictures made with paint or crayons that would hang brightly on the refrigerator door, a shining beacon of a parents pride in their child’s achievement.

Of all the activities mentioned, one stands far removed from all, and that is the ability to hold a pencil and put words to paper. The wide spaced, multi-lined books where calligraphy was practiced, letters repeated from left to right until perfection or the end of the line (whichever came first).

The greatest fear was that this literacy would be at a great risk of loss, judging by how terrible handwriting would be upon return from summer vacations, where books and pencils were quickly discarded for other more favorable objects such as bicycles, footballs, basketballs, tennis rackets and the like.

Nowadays, this creativity which was essential to our childhood is threatened by the advent of the smart phone, the tablet, the laptop and all the other gadgets. Will parents have to download 90

their children’s artwork and print it before hanging it around the house? Will their models only be viewable in AutoCAD? Will the broken French/ Arabic they attempt to speak be replaced by Google Translates’ monotone voices?

Back in those days, when it came time to do research, our options were limited to three sources of information: the text books, Encarta’s Encyclopedia and our parents. Nowadays Google has completely monopolized the information market, why bother learning the capitals of countries if you can merely look it up on Google?

Or even find an App that sums it all up for you.

This growingly negative phenomenon of overreliance on technology can already be seen in the

adults, where a group of friends can meet up and not speak a single word, each furiously typing away on their smart phones, liking pictures here, leaving a comment there etc. and now the younglings are following suite, with their tiny little hands already adept at typing at an incredible pace.

Can the advancement of technology be properly integrated into the educational system so as not to churn out students that lack creativity or are forever gazing down into their laps at the smart phones they use that dictate how they lead their lives?

A balance needs to be struck between technology and creativity, as technology’s role is undeniable, however it should not be a substitute for proper entertainment.

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Great Reasons to visit The Avenues

The Largest Home Centre & Centrepoint Stores in Kuwait

HOME CENTRE

The Avenues: 22201001

The Avenues: The Mall - 22201001 & 22200841

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bazaar fitness

THINKING INSIDE THE BOX What is CrossFit and is it suitable for me?

by Mike Campbell

More and more these days, wherever you walk in the health and fitness world it is difficult not to encounter this question. It seems to be a conundrum for many gym goers from the beginners to the advanced.

The feedback received from trainers to clients varies from “it is the greatest thing I have ever participated in” to “it’s dangerous and you will just get injured”.

So with the emergence in Kuwait of several new CrossFit training facilities or “boxes” as they are referred to in CrossFit terminology, I thought it would be appropriate to discuss the pros and cons (if any) in training with the CrossFit system.

Firstly, let’s define CrossFit. CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program designed to help people gain a broad and general fitness.

CrossFit Inc. was founded in the USA in 2000

by Greg and Lauren Glassman and has grown to over 6000 affiliated gyms worldwide. CrossFit describes its strength and conditioning program as “constantly varied, high intensity, functional movement,” with the stated goal of improving overall fitness (and therefore general physical preparedness), which it defines as “work capacity across broad time and modal domains.” CrossFit programs do this by advocating a mix of aerobic exercise, gymnastics (bodyweight exercises), and Olympic weight lifting.

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Workouts are typically short—30 minutes or less—and intense, demanding all-out physical exertion. They combine movements such as sprinting, rowing, jumping rope, climbing rope, flipping tires, weightlifting, carrying heavy objects, and many bodyweight exercises; equipment used includes barbells, dumbbells, gymnastics rings, pull-up bars, kettlebells, medicine balls, and boxes for box jumps.

Still not sure? Imagine the basic strength movements such as squatting or deadlifting through to the gymnastic aspect of handstand pushups, muscle ups and handstand walks through to strongman activities and on to swimming, running or cycling.

These elements are mixed in numerous combinations to form prescribed “Workouts of the Day” or “WODs”. Hour-long classes at affiliated gyms, or boxes, typically include a warm-up, a skill development segment, the high-intensity WOD, and a period of individual or group stretching.

Performance on each WOD is often scored and/ or ranked to encourage competition and to track individual progress.

Now if this sounds so fantastic why do some fitness professionals give CrossFit a bad rap?

It’s simple. Like anything, if it’s not taught correctly then poor movement patterns will lead to bad mechanics.

The end result is body breakdown.

Sooner or later, by only focusing on WOD’s, you may lose technique, become injured and you will certainly plateau in your fitness.

The solution, in my humble opinion, is programming. If you want to get great at CrossFit then you need to program. Target your weaknesses, improve these, and continue to build your strengths.

Your programming might follow different styles, such as Poliquin principles or Westside methodology. Regardless, the success lies in the planning and preparation to develop the skills, the strength, mobility, speed, agility, power and the engine required to perform at CrossFit. Every experienced CrossFitter understands that WOD’s will still play a role in the training regime, but they also understand the future of this sport lies in combining periodical strength training with the perceived “randomness” of the CrossFit program.

CrossFit has some obvious fantastic health benefits. However I believe the number one contributing factor is the ability to create a fitness family that support each other from a group of previously random individuals. Everybody learns to compete against themselves in order to improve their own performance and they discover the fine line that separates maximum work ethic and potential disaster in the form of an injury. They support each other through the good, bad and sometimes ugly.

As a client participating in CrossFit or a member of a CrossFit Box, don’t settle for being educated by an unqualified coach, demonstrations of incorrect technique, or developing the mentality of cheating in order to post the best time. You will eventually be found wanting. Regardless of your perceived level of conditioning, keep your ego in check at all times and use the progressions and regressions available in CrossFit through scaling to get the most out of every session available to you.

If CrossFit works in assisting you on the road to achieving your personal goals, then it’s simply another tool you can use to succeed.

So is CrossFit for you? Yes – it definitely could be, just don’t forget to program your strength training around it.

Mike Campbell is the GM and Co Founder of Inspire Pure Fitness. For further information please email: info@inspirekw.com or jane@inspirekw.com or visit www.inspirekw.com.

SHAWARMA-MATIC

PINKBERRY

Smooth(ie) Operators by bazaar staff

When Pinkberry opened their first store at The Avenues in 2009, it was the West Hollywood-born chain’s first foray into the international market. In the 4 short years that have since passed, we have seen them continue to grow both locally with 11 stores at present (and a 12th already in the works), and more than 200 worldwide, assuring that the flavors that we have all come to love will be available wherever in the world we might find ourselves.

These days, these internationally robust nonfat frozen yogurt purveyors have been working to expand on the favorites you already love, while staying true to the roots of the brand itself. That means they are bringing you the perfect combination of light and refreshing frozen yogurt, fresh daily hand-cut fruit and nonfat milk, blended to perfection with a completely new offering of smoothies.

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With these new drink options, it’s time to give that spoon a rest and enjoy an invigorating beverage on the go with a wide variety of exciting flavors made with the usual high quality ingredients and consistency you would expect from the folks at Pinkberry. Made of nonfat milk, nonfat yogurt and fresh ingredients with no added sugar or additives, these new options evoke the same feeling of goodness that made their frozen yogurt an instant hit when they first arrived to an already crowded fro-yo scene.

The new Smoothies range comes in a variety of flavors, some of which are fruit based, including Strawberry Pomegranate, Mango Pineapple, and Strawberry Banana. For those of you that are inclined towards more indulgent flavors, you may prefer either the Cookies & Cream or Chocolate Hazelnut options. These combinations of great flavors are a healthy and filling option you can enjoy

any time, any day.

Pinkberry continues to be one of the world’s fastest growing global retail brands and category leaders internationally. By offering consumers a one-of-a-kind experience comprised of distinct products and outstanding service, they believe they will continue to stay ahead of the frozen yogurt game, long after the trend itself has subsided. From store design and exceptional customer service, to delicious yogurt flavors, toppings and the light and refreshing smoothies range, Pinkberry delivers an experience that delights and refreshes consumers.

With the expanded menu that now includes both their traditionally healthy and richer options of smoothies, there is now ever more reason to stop by on the next hot day...as in tomorrow, most likely.

For more information go to www.pinkberry.com or follow them on Facebook: PinkberryMiddleEast

PAYLESS

bazaar a la mode DESIGUAL WOMAN AUTUMN WINTER 2013 - A STORY OF REQUITED LOVE The “We Love” concept is reflected throughout Desigual’s new collection, and is a genuine declaration of love for all their present and future customers. Desigual want their customers to echo their battle cry La Vida es Chula, a truly universal message reflected in the three concepts that bring everything together so that it all makes sense: Passion, Fun & Love. In Passion they come face to face with the most sophisticated evening wear. This brings together elements like lace, cretonne flowers and sequins and combines them with tube cuts, fitted silhouettes, and the unbeatable color combination of red and black. Fun really reflects Desigual’s DNA. In Galactic they’ve developed more subtle circles, which are more wearable for women who prefer something more discreet. They present the original Galactic circles behind some of the best-selling items in past seasons and have new prints with chiffon and ethnic prints that play with symmetry. In the Love range street casual and folk trends go hand in hand. The street trend features items like military parkas reworked for Desigual or knitted biker jackets. Big colors this season are khaki and ecru. Kilim prints and a combination of fabrics also feature heavily.

Desigual has two stores in Kuwait: 360 Mall, phone 2530 9623; and The Avenues 2259 7506. For more information log on to www.desigual.com

THE BODY SHOP LAUNCHES COLOUR CRUSH LIPSTICKS The Body Shop announced the launch of the new lipstick collection “Colour Crush.” The collection offers 24 high-impact shades blended with silky Community Fair Trade marula oil.

There is a variety of colors from pretty pinks, stylish nudes and knockout reds to choose from and that suit different tastes and preferences. There is color for everyone. These luscious lipsticks give a stunning pop of color and rich moisture, infused with a subtle rose scent.“Our Community Fair Trade marula oil is sourced from the Eudafano Women’s Co-Operative in Namibia, which is helping 1,750 women to earn a fair income. The women involved say the benefits go beyond money, as the project also gives them business management skills, a sense of independence and greater confidence,” said Brett Lilley, business manager at The Body Shop.

BACK TO BLUE, FALL 2013 For Fall 2013, Gap goes Back to Blue with a collection of premium ‘Indigo’ denim including the Slim Selvedge Jean, Selvedge Heritage Jacket, Henley Tee, Pocket Tee, Crew Neck Fleece, Shawl Collar Fleece, Zip Hoodie, Oxford Shirt, Plaid Worker Shirt for Men. For women, sexy boyfriend jean is introduced as the predominant shape in the collection.

The capsule includes tops, outerwear, and accessories that have been produced using genuine indigo dyes. Gap also introduces a new style story ‘Salt’. The fading of summer is reflected here with the fading colors with salt-washed grays and watery blues that help emulate a more muted color palette and add diversity to the collection. The season also witnesses ‘Sycamore’ story for men, where color dominates with lush greens in the woven items teamed with vibrant violets in the knits. Cool candy colors infused with prints and pastel patterns with fresh printed plaids are teamed up with super skinny pants while Plaid and layering pieces such as Polka Dot Puffer Vets and Plaid Moto Jackets for women help enhance the winter look.

The new collection is available from August 2013 at all Gap stores in Kuwait.

DOROTHY PERKINS AUTUMN WINTER 2013 This autumn winter, Dorothy Perkins showcases three key looks: modern clean-cut daywear, opulent embellished casualwear and statement eveningwear. Daywear is kept simple with clean lines and classic shapes. A-line and pencil skirts teamed with boxy jackets and bombers are key and tailored pieces are paired with crisp shirts for a smart look. Windowpane check and geometric prints are worn together for a sleek take on the head-to-toe print trend, while monochrome combines with hues of cobalt blue, burgundy and brilliant white to create a simple color palette. For casualwear, cosy knits are mixed with winter whites.

Simple knits in neutral tones are given an update with embellishment and military-style motifs while silhouettes are kept lady-like with full A-line skirts. The long line biker jacket and fur bomber are this season’s outerwear must-haves and footwear classics like the biker boot and sling-back heel get a sports lux makeover in chalk white and nude. Occasionwear embraces all things textured as faux-furs are layered with PU, sequins, lace, jacquard and metallics. Animal print and monochrome combine to create the palette for this collection.

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LA MARTINA PRESENTS AT THE 83RD EDITION OF PITTI IMMAGINE UOMO A PREVIEW OF THE AUTUMN WINTER COLLECTION 2013/2014 This year, La Martina, world leader company in technical equipment for Polo, chose Pitti once again to present the new 2013/2014 Autumn Winter collection. The long experience and the great investments in research involving the materials and the particularity of the manufacturing make the brand the ideal partner for thousands of sportspeople who rely on La Martina for quality and safety.

This new collection stems from the need to communicate the old and deep bond between the brand name and the world of Polo: on the one hand, the free, wild and Argentine traditional one, on the other, the more British and Victorian English characteristic. The stand will house the collection which will consist of three main lines, all linked one to the other for style and quality: Guards and Colleccion Privada and the La Martina Collection.

The Guards collection presents a mini collection called Royal Box, evoking the name of grandstand of the UK’s most royal and exclusive spectators of the Polo club, limited to members of the Royal Family and their guests.

In Colleccion Privada, this cleaner, simpler and more refined line was created for polo tournament spectators, reflecting the country atmosphere of the Argentinean pampas.

JIMMY CHOO UNVEILS AUTUMN WINTER CAMPAIGN STARRING NICOLE KIDMAN With Academy Award winning actress Nicole Kidman in the starring role, Jimmy Choo unveils its Autumn Winter 2013 campaign. Exploring themes of film noir and referencing the tension of Hitchcock’s empowered heroines, photographer Mikael Jansson portrays Kidman as the charming protagonist in a series of images that hint at the brand’s recurring themes of empowered glamour. A campaign that reflects the highlights of the new collection and features the glamour of the latest trends incarnated by the presence of exquisite shapes and models and translated by the presence of Kidman “Nicole has perfectly captured the mood of our AW13 collection; her character portrays the multi-faceted qualities of the Jimmy Choo woman for this season – strong, attractive with a beguiling sense of mystery.” Affirmed Sandra Choi, Creative Director of the campaign.

The Jimmy Choo/Nicole Kidman campaign is accompanied by a short film which may be viewed at www.jimmychoo.com, and a refined collection of accessories inclusive of shoes and bags to discover in Jimmy Choo boutiques – The Avenues – Prestige 1st floor and 360 Mall.

G-STAR AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION 2013 FOR MEN For winter 2013, the G-Star look for men features a broad range of styles in different shades of intense dark indigo. Denim highlight is the Type C denim with its modern loose fit. This 3D denim is partly inspired by late 1940s US Servicemen, whose pants had a tapered fit and worn-in knees. Key characteristics of the Type C denim are the bowleg silhouette - celebrating the 3D denim look - and the extremely loose top block with a low crotch construction. Its oversized front and back pockets take inspiration from those of vintage workwear pants, stretched by the carrying of heavy tools.

Combine the Type C with dark blue tops like the quilted blazer or RAW Essentials Pea Coat.

G-star raw essentials breaths premium denim craftsmanship RAW Essentials is the ultimate proof of G-Star denim craftsmanship. The collection features the most innovative denim fabrics, techniques and washings. Key color in the RAW Essentials collection is RAW Mazarine, a deep and dark blue color is inspired by Toile de Chine, a fabric that predates denim. Wear it with destroyed denim for an unexpected look or wear it chic dark on dark. The contemporary 3301 Low Tapered comes in Mazarine RAW, a red listing quality with a herringbone construction. It has a deeply saturated blue black base with a weft that is black yarn dyed and the warp is indigo with sulphur black on top. The combination of the saturated blue black color and the herringbone construction give this exclusive denim very contemporary edge. In addition the Arc jacket also features this dark Mazarine color yet in a canvas construction. RAW Essentials also includes premium destroyed fabrics. The process of creating destroyed denim is an art by itself. Finished by hand, it takes expertise to make denim look and feel natural, old and authentic. Highlight is the 3301 Low Tapered in Savior denim - an authentic Japanese selvedge denim with destroy finish. This 13.5 oz. ring/ring spun 3x1 right hand twill has an authentic and irregular weave.

The Arc jacket features the same fabric, yet without the destroyed details.

G-Star RAW. Just the Product.

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Loaay's Two Cents Got business problems or challenges at work? With his Two Cents page, Loaay Ahmed shares his expertise in strategic management consulting to help managers, employees and entrepreneurs thrive.

Q

Whenever we’re organizing a large event, we use temporary staff to receive and assist the attendees. How can we engage and motivate people to represent the brand when they’re not part of the company?

To improve the chances of the attendees having a positive experience, profile the candidates to select only those who have the characteristics you need to see applied during the event – what’s the point of hiring a person with an unfriendly attitude to welcome your guests? Design a briefing video or presentation about the company and email them a link to view it before they show up for a half-day training/orientation. Most companies ignore explaining why this event is taking place. They just jump to what it is, which should come second.

By sharing with them why this event is important to your business you gain their understanding and empathy; as social and emotional species we just function better this way. The third part after the why and what is how you want them to perform.

For maximum impact, surprise them with some pleasant treats that they didn’t expect from a one-day employer. For example, make a deal with your insurance provider to cover the staff for injuries and death during the event. Unless your event involves feeding lions, accidents are low and that means your insurance is close to nothing for a single event. Why insurance? You are responsible for their safety and it sends a message that you care, which will encourage them to pay you back with care and dedication. Another example is to set a team goal and to reward them with individual incentives, gifts or benefits that matter to them. If you’re thinking about the cost, remember the impact on your image for throwing an event managed by incompetent zombies who spend more time paying attention to their mobile phones than to your attendees...and that’s just my two cents.

Q

As consumers, we see endless retailers, restaurants, and other shops offer horrible customer service.

Whenever I complain to the shift or branch manager I don’t see an improvement later on. It’s like they don’t take any serious action or don’t even listen.

What else can we do as customers when we like the products but not the service?

Customers in the West write to companies’ senior management to complain and threaten boycotting their business and they usually get attention from the media when other customers do the same. If a mediocre dealer represents the brand you like, inform the original brand’s head or regional office. If it’s a local brand, contact the owners in charge. You may be surprised to know that many senior executives are under the assumption that their customers are satisfied as long

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as their sales are growing. This misconception happens because most executives don’t interact with their customers; instead, they’re spending an awful amount of time in their offices. I believe that most executives would take actions if they came to know how unsatisfied their customers are.

If you and other customers just stop buying to make a statement and kick the dealers where it hurts without communicating with them, they still won’t understand why their sales are going down. You and other customers should escalate the complaints to senior executives because you are the ones who have the power to change things quickly, and because you want your favorite brand to stay open. You can always, of course, find an alternative brand or buy the item you want from another dealer when traveling...and that’s just my two cents.

Q

Just before every holiday season I start receiving vacation requests from my young middle managers.

When I approve their requests, productivity goes down across the entire division. When I don’t, morale is low and it affects their teams. I don’t want to create a bad vibe but I also don’t want to micromanage in their absence. What are my options?

Many old school management thinkers might suggest that you’re being a bit soft with your team and that they need to pay attention to their jobs or they might be replaced. However, young managers are from Generation Y, and they have a different view on life-work balance.

I’m not implying that they’re careless, it’s simply that they don’t live just to work, not all of them anyway. You can treat vacation requests like a hot restaurant reservation by implementing a ‘First come, first booked’ policy, but your managers will hate each other and many things at work will be affected negatively. A second option is to let them coordinate their leave dates with each other and to come to you with one nonoverlapping calendar. Depending on the number of managers, their families’ flexibilities, and social plans this option may go either way.

Another approach is to look at this ‘headache’ as an opportunity to strengthen your second lineup by asking the middle managers to start coaching their deputies a couple of months before taking their leave to help their assistants to step up and to practice managing. Who knows, you might end up seeing more productivity and brighter vibe at work when your middle managers are away...and that’s just my two cents.

For Loaay Ahmed’s advice on business or work matters, send a short email to loaay@knightscapital.com. Regrettably, only the questions chosen for publishing will be answered.

Loaay Ahmed is a management consultant and strategic expert. To learn more about Loaay and his consulting service, strategic business therapy, visit www.knightscapital.com.

TAAL

BRINGING OUT YOUR INNER CHILD Taking pleasure in life’s little joys

by Zainab Mirza

When was the last time you ran through sprinklers on a swelteringly hot day? Listened to the satisfying crunch of dried leaves as you stepped on them? Took in deep whiffs of the delicious aroma that emanates from scorched earth as the rain falls upon it?

As children, some of us may have wished we could fast forward to adulthood. It just seemed so glamorous; no rules, no bedtime, none of the nagging “don’t do this” or “don’t do that”. As adolescents, there was an overbearing pressure from parents and teachers chiding us to ‘grow up’.

Now that we have grown up, we sometimes find ourselves wistfully looking back to our carefree childhood days, wishing we could turn back time.

What we don’t seem to realize as we squander precious time in the futility of this nostalgia, is that each of us has a child within. Most of us keep that child locked away, shackled and gagged, never daring it to step out of the confines of the so-called mature, responsible adults we project ourselves to be. Some may even smother their inner child; they’re so mortified at the thought of being regarded as childish, they’d be quick to pass a comment like the abhorrent ‘act your age’ to someone enjoying life spontaneously.

‘Act your age’. What does that even mean?

The only thing we can equate with immaturity or childishness is irresponsibility. But if you’re responsible, then who laid down the law and said that once you’re over 20 you can’t take delight in life’s little joys? Why do we get so embarrassed by what people might think?

Adults can be unforgiving and cynical.

Children are innocent and don’t nurse grudges.

They embrace each new dawn with excitement, and marvel at and take pleasure in things adults wouldn’t give a second thought to.

Why wouldn’t you want to hold on to those qualities you had as a child? They still exist within you albeit in a lesser degree. If you’re not convinced, here are a few reasons why liberating your inner child might be a good idea.

1. Eliminates the dreariness of menial jobs.

Housework, errands, helping with homework, grocery shopping, pointless meetings, organizing folders on your laptop, filing receipts and other mundane work form an inescapable part of our lives. The key is to trigger your creativity and unleash your imagination to find a fun factor to thwart the boredom. When I was younger and had to pour my mother tea, I’d pretend I was an undercover agent about to drug my victim for an interrogation (the Tropicana Slim sachet I’d empty into the cup was actually a vial of powerful truth serum). I still pretend to sometimes…

Try singing, writing a rhyme, playing a game, setting challenges for yourself and your 100

colleagues and having a competition, reenacting a scene you might recall from a movie, creating your own dance move, discovering something new about your surroundings or just contemplating.

The possibilities are virtually endless.

2. Attitude adjustment. Wake up with optimism to what the day will bring. Find pleasure in the simple thrills that surround us. When did you last hold your face up to the gentle caress of raindrops or burst into a spontaneous song and dance because you were ecstatic? Just lay on the grass and observed the wisps of clouds floating

by or sat by the sea and basked in the moonlight?

3. Healthier state of mind. Appreciating the little things in life and the wonders around you every day puts your problems into perspective and enables you to lead a more relaxed and stress-free existence. You develop a more spirited outlook with the added touch of fun and spontaneity to your life, while exuding positivity and confidence.

Is your inner child alive and well? Put it to the test. If it is, there are a few things it can’t resist.

Bursting bubbles in bubble wrap is probably one.

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BOARD GAMES FOR THE MODERN TIMES Hurry up and pass Go already

by Alexandra Petri

Monopoly in 30 minutes? And with brands instead of properties?

This must not pass Go. The essence of Monopoly is the long hours of knock-down, drag-out gameplay. Of course it’s unbearable. That’s the whole point.

“You kids want to play Monopoly?” was your parents’ way of saying, “We’d like to watch ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ twice, and when we come back you will just barely have gotten around the board.”

Monopoly Empire, the latest edition of the game, gives players the opportunity to buy and sell brands. Instead of Boardwalk and Park Place, why not invest in Coca-Cola? And, even more alarming, you can finish a game in half an hour.

Is speed really worth it? If speed is all that we crave, we’ll ruin everything!

And if Hasbro is doing this to Monopoly, what are gamemakers going to do to the rest of the board-game world? First they came for Classic Monopoly, and I said nothing, because I never really liked that iron anyway. But what’s next?

SORRY: New 30-Minute-or-Less Sorry is exactly like regular Sorry, but you go around the board in the opposite direction. Suddenly, everything’s much easier!

RISK: Instead of invading territories to take control of the board, new Risk requires U.N. approval from other players. Kamchatka’s permanent seat on the Risk Security Council makes any movement difficult. The highlight of the game is when you all send a single cavalryman to observe an election in Irkutsk and it goes pretty okay. (This is not shorter than regular Risk, but it is too boring to play for more than 20 minutes at a time.)

LIFE: Impose a Rockstar Cutoff of 27 years old for all players. Live fast! Don’t bother with a family. Instead of focusing on milestones such as paying off your student debt, getting the Victorian House or retiring to Millionaire Estates, fill your tiny, expensive peg-person car with cocaine and try to amass as many Twitter followers and Facebook friends as possible.

BATTLESHIP: The new edition includes a nuclear option — a button to sink all of the other player’s ships at once. And destroy the entire board. Pro: Game ends in a single second!

Cons: Have to buy a new game board; rest of toy box contaminated with fallout. An alternative shorter version just closes the Strait of Hormuz instead of nuking the board, but that’s crazy!

Who would close the Strait of Hormuz?

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CLUE: Shorter Clue incorporates forensic science. The game is over the second the autopsy results arrive — it can be as quick as one minute!

(Depending on your city’s backlog, playing time may vary.) The weapon is always going to be the revolver.

HUNGRY HUNGRY HIPPOS: Because of the Hungry Hungry Hippos’ dietary restrictions — Orange Hippo can’t eat gluten, Blue Hippo is lactoseintolerant, Yellow Hippo is lacto-ovo-vegetarian, Green Hippo is trying the paleo diet — the game ends before it starts because no one can figure out which of the balls are safe to gobble up.

SCRABBLE: New Scrabble is like old Scrabble, but you’re allowed to use the names of Web startups, Kardashians and celebrity babies. Nothing is prohibited. Everything is a word. Game definitely ends in 20 minutes or when your father stalks away from the board muttering, “This is just wrong, this is just wrong.”

CANDY LAND: You are permitted only a single serving of candy. Border-control officers prevent you from leaving the Peppermint Forest to visit the Chocolate Swamp. They insist that you can’t read — if you could read,

you would be playing any other game on Ear th.

CHUTES AND LADDERS: The game is a flat playing board that you proceed across in a linear fashion while your parents hover nearby. For added safety, all tokens are swaddled in thick layers of padding and forced to wear helmets. No chutes!

No ladders! Someone might get hurt, and then all of Mother and Father’s efforts with the Stanford preschool feeder circuit will be for naught.

CHESS: A rabble of pawns seizes the kings and queens and bears them off the board to be beheaded. Over in 10 minutes, but the degree of ensuing chaos and length of time required to establish a stable follow-up system of government varies by players.

TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Like regular Trivial Pursuit, but you can use Google.

CONNECT FOUR: New, abbreviated Connect Four only requires you to Connect One. PICTIONARY: Like traditional Pictionary, but you can write words instead of just drawing.

This can still take awhile, depending on the penmanship of the other players.

CROCS

Crocs Kuwait

2530-9670/1 Discovery Mall: 2291-3631 Al-Kout Mall: 2393-0108 Marina Mall: 2224-4814 Airport Mall: 2431-6334 Liwan Mall: 2221-0127 Mubarkiya: 2246-1823 Sama Sulaibikhat: 2221-6086 The Avenues: 22200507

SHAWARMA-MATIC The future is calling by bazaar staff

When we first heard of the new concept Shawarma-matic, brought to you by the same lovely people who have long been filling our bellies with Mais Alghanim, we were intrigued to say the least. As an item previously only available on their catering menu, the often requested Shawarma would, if nothing else, be more widely available. Having now been to the location, sampled the food, and basked in their many options, we are pleased to say that they have exceeded our already high expectations with a menu as delicious as it is vast.

The concept sounded futuristic enough: Shawarma served by robots? How can this be (I may have even camped out overnight in front like it was the opening of the next Star Wars movie)?

However, the truth is, though not as futuristic as the child in me might have wanted, it still remains equally compelling to the taste buds. First, all of 104

the actual cutting of the Shawarma meat is done automatically by a machine that does deliver on all the goodies that you would expect from an automated process: consistency of the cut, consistency of the amount served, cleanliness; all whilst cross-referencing in its motherboard the ever-changing circumference of the meat.

That said, it would be a real disservice to the menu overall to merely focus on such themes as the food here is worth going out of your way for. First the basics: when it comes to types of meats, they have 6 different kinds, ever spinning, in the slow roasted manner that you only get from the Shawarma experience: beef, chicken, Turkish Doner, Tandoori, Taouk, and Kabbab. When it comes to the breads, you have your choice of Lebanese, Samoun, Saj, or a baguette. Lastly, for toppings they have even more varieties with 9 different basics (of which you can pick four),

10 premium toppings for a slight up-charge, and over a dozen different sauces. With all of these toppings being as varied as hummus, cucumber sauce, caramelized onions, guacamole, or even French fries, there is no doubt that you could spend years here perfecting your perfect meal.

Being a bit of a purist as we are when it comes to such eateries, we opted to start out with the standard beef Shawarma (here called the Standdar), and work our way up to some of the more adventurous items on the menu. The first thing that you will likely notice is that you are definitely in for an upgrade from the norm with these guys; this is true both in sheer size, and the quality of ingredients. Weighing in at nearly 3 times the norm of traditional Shawarmas, these definitely make a meal unto themselves.

The Saj bread was wonderfully fresh, warm, and presented hot off the grill with the help of a

Panini-press-type melting and melding of all the inside goodness, before being presented to you.

One other one we tried here was the Crunchy Julius, an inventive take on the mix of Shawarma (we had chicken), mixed with a Caesar salad.

For our part this reminded us of the “wraps” craze that we all saw a while back, only with the freshness and inventiveness that many other restaurants missed in the shuffle. The Chubby Gonzales, a near burrito-like intersection of Mexican ingredient favorites (including salsa rice, chile’s and of course sour cream and guacamole, should you be so inclined) that could satisfy a more western urge for home.

With a playful menu that incorporates funny descriptions with wonderful and equally original flavor profiles, you are bound to find more than enough items to keep you coming back. They also indicate contests coming in the future where you

can get a Shawarma named after yourself if you can come up with an original version all your own.

The real essence of what they have done though, is presented an upgrade of your shawarma favorites via higher quality ingredients and larger portions, for a shawar-magical experience (yeah, that just happened).

When it comes to the sides there are a few that one definitely should not miss. The fried pickles were good, lightly breaded, and came with a dipping sauce. The Crispy Halloumi Bites were also delicious, with the perfect amount of cheese to bread ratio. I hear the Kibbeh balls are also delicious here, though sadly I was too stuffed to try them. For those who just want a sandwich, the Msa7ab Djeij was filled with a wonderfully moist pulled roasted chicken, French fries, pickles and garlic, and both the Batatamatic, and Rice-matic were wonderful standouts.

I highly recommend repeated visits in order to try them all.

For our part here at the magazine, we have committed to daily visits as we work on flavor variations for an absolutely decadent bazaarmatic that no doubt would involve several upcharges, due to its use of at least 3 types of meat, an excess of toppings, and the ability to have a robot hand-feed us. In the mean timehead down there and see if you can come up with a more popular version than they have--you won’t regret it!

Shawarma-matic is open from 1pm to 1am. It is located in Salmiya, Block 10, Sayed Yasseen Street.

Reach them by phone at 2225 6444 or check out their website at: www.shawarma-matic.com. You can also follow them on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook: @shawarmamatic 105

ACQUA EVA

A new spring emerges by bazaar staff

When it comes to bottled water, it is safe to say that the market is, eh-saturated! Bottled from seemingly every corner of the world, artesian springs and recycled bottles come together to make sure that we stay equally so. And from amongst all of the good and bad variations that are out there, out pops a newcomer to the market, bottled from the highest natural spring in all of Europe, promising just enough difference to warrant a second look. Thirsty yet?

First things first: aside from its spot high on the peaks of an Italian mountain, what makes this new brand so different? It would seem that it starts with the very chemical composition of the water itself, which they consider a breakthrough in the water category. First off, it is extremely Low in Sodium - 0.32 mg/ltr - thus preventing water retention and cleansing the kidneys. If you are wondering why a lack of water retention is important, it thus allows you to get all of the benefits of the water without the burden of the puffy face and extra weight, so it seems. In addition, Acqua Eva is Microbiologically Pure with a “total dissolved solids” level of 49.0 mg/ltr. Its point at the highest natural spring in Europe, the Monviso peaks - 2,042m above sea level, is part of what helps it to achieve such a low number. And when we are drinking water, really— who wants a high total dissolved solids number?

On May 29th 2013, the Monviso mountain itself was awarded the UNESCO recognition of “Biosphere Reverse” for its pristine purity and sustainable development of the territory. In addition, Acqua Eva is steadily striving to reduce the amount of plastic used for its bottles while keeping them as strong and stable as ever. The Acqua Eva bottling plant is located in a beautifully renovated old spinning mill near the village of Paesana, which subtly blends into the surrounding landscape. This greener building ensures less transport thus reducing Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, where energy comes from renewable sources during the production process.

The look and feel of the Acqua Eva packaging itself is a response to both the global standards and consumers demands. Acqua Eva presents itself with a square base and in an easy grip and a dramatically – different bottle shape they believe is more suitable to the universal users.

Water is the world’s best moisturizer, and, as we all know, a daily intake of water is required for the normal physiological functioning of the human body. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends a daily intake of total water, that is water that is included not only in drinking water itself but all water contained in beverages and food, at a rate of 3.7 liters (approx. 1 gallon) per day, for an adult male, and 2.7 liters (approx. 0.75 106

gallon) per day for an adult female.

At Acqua Eva, they continue to work to endear themselves to the public, first by providing the leading quality water in the market and, secondly, by engaging in activities that cater to the well-being of the global society.

Acqua Eva has always supported and partnered

with people who live their dreams with passion, dedication and fair-play: it is this Purity that they feel sets Acqua Eva apart from any other water brand presently on the market.

Acqua Eva water can now be found in many of your local Kuwait co-ops and supermarkets.

COSMETIC SURGERY CLINIC

I CAN’T EXPLAIN

Communication breakdowns

by B. Qureshi

Words transmit knowledge. They let us communicate expertise and experience so others can learn to do almost anything. Words help us conquer our emotions by being able to break them down into units and tell others so they can understand. They help us overcome. I always believed that words make things nearly perfectly clear. The problem lies in words used to confuse, rather than clarify.

My purse strap cracks so we take it to a cobbler. The repair consists of little more than glue but he asks for more than we expect. His response: “Yes, of course, I glued both sides,” as if he doesn’t understand. I ask my maid to move the coffee table. She agrees while donning her abaya.

“Please, now, before you leave.” She said ‘’yes’’ then leaves without doing it. At the store I forget beid from reading cookbooks, so outline the shape of eggs with my hands.

For an expat, miscommunication is part of life.

But among friends, in the same language, it’s no better. My husband’s co-workers’ wives discuss over tea how charming life in the “West” is. When I offer my opinion, their silences say, ’don’t prove us wrong in front of others. Don’t ruin our fantasies.’

They know I was born, raised, and educated in America, but somehow, marrying a non-American and speaking their language rather than dominate them in English has negated my experience. I’m a lucky fool. They are less fortunate, but wiser.

You’d expect family to understand you, but my mother-in-law and I both speak Urdu as a second language, in different accents. Our phone calls are 108

like this: “Yesterday the doctor said...” Is it static or her accent? “Where’s the problem?” “In my...”

I cast glances at my husband to translate.

Then, like my former maid, I pretend like I know what she means. “I’ll pray it gets better. I’m fine, the baby’s fine, your son’s eating well. Do you want to talk to him?” And I do what I know to be rude: I wait for a chance to pass the phone off to my husband.

With my older brother, someone I should be able to speak frankly with and understand more than anybody, it’s only more grounds for miscommunication. I tell him about life in Kuwait, the deportations. “When are you moving back to Pakistan?” When others would ask me when I’m coming home for good, my brother is sending me further afield. I try to tell him I wouldn’t be moving back, but moving to, since I’m not even a national, just married to one and Pakistani through descent.

It’s not my country. I try to tell him the political situation, the salary of an engineer versus the rising cost of living, having to live with in-laws, but he accuses me of being sheltered, seeing things narrowly, not knowledgeable.

He talks about our parents coming to visit him. “I don’t want them in my life. But I know you’ll take their side anyway.” So why call me about it? He assumes they don’t like his girlfriend, and that they’re cheap and don’t want to pay for anything. The bride elect wants a Mughal-style Bollywood wedding, even though she’s white and we’re not Mughal or Indian, and two dresses, an American one and an Indian one,

billowy flower arrangements, Moroccan lamps, a $5000 diamond ring, an open cocktail bar when we don’t drink, an elaborate five-course dinner with three different buffets, and for us to foot the bill when none of our guests can come since it’s out of state. And my brother doesn’t have a job yet after his medical residency.

“Why can’t you change the date if you expect them to pay? Or at least have asked us before booking a venue, if you really wanted us to come?”

He accuses me of being dumb on purpose, a romantic. I want to tell him he’s unfair to our parents, who took out loans on their name just to make him a doctor. I never told him he’s unfair to me by not planning his wedding around my ability to travel. I want to tell him so much more. But it’s meaningless.

My baby stops babbling and arches his back in his highchair, with “no language but a cry,” I turn off the phone. Anyway, I can’t let my husband come home and assume that I lack my only brother’s support and respect. My brother doesn’t care about the position that puts me in--when my relatives and in-laws ask who he married and why I didn’t go to the wedding, I’ll have excuses and lies to make to save face, to protect myself and my family from appearing divided and dysfunctional in a culture where your family (your men) is your strength.

I’m guilty of it too, not being clear enough.

Knowing the market, I’ve cleaned up the worst of it for the reader. One day I might quit writing, stop talking, anything to end the frustration of not being able to communicate.

ELEMENT EIGHT

bazaar music

HYDE PARK LIVE

by The Rolling Stones

There must be omissions when the two sets of the Stones’ Hyde Park shows are condensed down into one manageable download album package, but this album, an iTunes only release produces a great populist sequence. There’s no denying the power of a set stuffed with riffs like “Honky Tonk Women”, “Brown Sugar” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”, played with that inimitable loose/tight dialectic that characterizes the Stones at their best. No matter how many times they’ve played these songs and picked those riffs, this music will resonate for decades thanks to the verve with which they’re performed. This album is worth it for “Paint It Black” alone.

COLD FACT

by Sixto Rodriquez

It is one of the lost classics of the 60s, a psychedelic masterpiece drenched in color and inspired by life, love, poverty, rebellion, and, of course, jumpers, coke, sweet mary jane. The album is Cold Fact, and what’s more intriguing is that its maker a shadowy figure known as Rodriguez was, for many years, lost too. A decade ago, he was rediscovered working on a Detroit building site, unaware that his defining album had become not only a cult classic, but for the people of South Africa, a beacon of revolution.

He recorded Cold Fact his debut album in 1969.

It’s crushingly good stuff, filled with tales of bad drugs, lost love, and itchy-footed songs about life in late 60s inner-city America.

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ELECTRIC by Pet Shop Boys 2013 release from the veteran British Synthpop duo. Electric features eight new Pet Shop Boys songs, plus a cover of Bruce Springsteen’s anti-war track “Last to Die.” Stuart Price, best known for his work with Madonna and The Killers, produced the album, which band members Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe call “banging.” “Electric is very much set on the dance floor,” they said in a statement.

Producer Stuart Price said the album’s sound was developed via “various techniques between old school synth and drum machine programming and new school computer mangling.” “Thursday” features British rapper Example.

BLURRED LINES

by Robin Thicke

2013 release, the sixth album from the Pop/ R&B singer/songwriter and actor/television personality (Real Husbands Of Hollywood). The first single, ‘Blurred Lines’, features T.I. and Pharrell. Born in Los Angeles, Robin taught himself to play piano at the age of 12 and by 16 was writing and producing songs for artists like Brandy, Color Me Badd, and Brian McKnight.

By the age of 21, he had written and produced songs on over 20 gold and platinum albums including Michael Jackson, Marc Anthony, Pink, Christina Aguilera and others. Since then, he has maintained a very successful career as a solo artist. Deluxe edition includes three bonus tracks.

CLOSER TO THE TRUTH

by Cher

The one and only Cher is back and ready to release her first studio album in over 10 years. Her new album, Closer To The Truth, is scheduled to be released on September 24th on Warner Bros. Records. Cher debuted “Woman’s World,” the first single from her upcoming album, on the season finale of NBC’s The Voice. Cher counts Oscar, Emmy, Grammy and several Golden Globes amongst her long list of awards, and her single “Believe” sold 11 million copies. She is the only artist to have a No. 1 single on the Billboard pop charts in each of the last six decades.

THE CIVIL WARS

by The Civil Wars

The Civil Wars’ highly anticipated sophomore self-titled album is the follow up to the threetime Grammy Award-winning duo’s acclaimed debut, Barton Hollow. The Civil Wars was recorded in Nashville between August 2012 and January 2013. The album was recorded amidst a grueling touring schedule, exhausting workload and a growing disconnect from their families. Joy Williams has said that the name and music of The Civil Wars is inspired by “the good, the bad, and the ugly of relationships”.

How ironic that her and singer/guitarist John Paul White would experience their own, after all, maintaining a band is just as hard as maintaining a marriage. source: www.amazon.com

PLATINUM

bazaar around town MCLAREN P1: THE NUMBER CRUNCHER McLaren Automotive has released the final numbers, images and information relating to its phenomenal McLaren P1 ahead of a global reveal at the 83rd International Geneva Motor Show. The race-inspired Instant Power Assist System (IPAS) gives the McLaren P1 astonishing performance. Zero to 100km/h will take less than 3 seconds, zero to 200 km/h under 7 seconds, and zero to 300 km/h will be achieved in no more than 17 seconds.

Putting that into perspective, that’s 5 seconds faster than the legendary McLaren F1 road car. Top speed is electronically limited to 350 km/h. McLaren has closely monitored demand so as to maintain exclusivity, and announced a production number of just 375 units – a figure that will ensure the McLaren P1 will remain a rarity and, if spotted on the road, an unforgettable sight. The company prides itself on designing performance cars that their owners can use regularly so the McLaren P1 comes comprehensively equipped as standard with an array of color and trim alternatives from which the customer will be able to choose as well as visible carbon fiber in the cabin. The options list is limited to only bespoke content that a customer might wish to add through McLaren Special Operations, and fitted luggage.

The McLaren P1 will have the combined force of two highly-efficient powerplants, offering the optimum mix of superb throttle response, day-to-day drivability and top speed. To rein in the power produced by these twin powerplants, the McLaren P1 is designed to offer braking performance more associated with a GT3 or sports racing car. Developed by McLaren’s Formula 1 partner Akebono, the system features a new type of carbon ceramic disc, which has previously seen service in space, but never before used on a road car. Stronger than conventional carbon ceramic, the material dissipates heat more effectively, giving the highly efficient braking system exceptional stopping and cooling capability. The system also boasts significantly reduced weight, and a bespoke ceramic layer coats both friction surfaces to give an attractive mirrored finish. One surprising feature is that the car can also be driven solely in electric mode. In city driving this could mean up to a 20km range. More than enough for an owner to enter, for example, a city centre, have dinner and return home.

For more information please visit an Ali Alghanium & Sons showroom or visit them on Facebook or Twitter @AliAlghanimSons

VIVA LAUNCHES THE FIRST DRIVE-THROUGH PAYMENT ATM IN KUWAIT VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest-growing and most developed telecom operator, announced the launch of the first drive through ATM concept in Kuwait. The new drive through ATM will is located at the Oula Gas Station, situated at the beginning of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Road (previously known as the 5th ring road). This latest endeavor by VIVA aims to help service its customers with its postpaid and prepaid services from bill payments, top-up cash and credit card payments while on the road at their convenience. It also serves the company’s growing number of customers across Kuwait and presenting them with new innovative ways of payment methods while on the go. With this new service, VIVA reiterates its commitment to continuously provide unique services designed to exceed the customers’ expectations, as the main objective of the company is to satisfy the customers in every possible way by adding real value to the customers experience while enjoying unrivalled communication.

To find out more about VIVA’s other branch locations and the latest competitive promotions, products and packages, visit the VIVA website www.viva.com.kw, or call VIVA’s 24 hour call center on 102.

ROYALE HAYAT HOSPITAL LABORATORY ACCREDITED BY CAP For the second time since 2011, Royale Hayat Hospital Lab achieved the international accreditation from the Collage of American Pathologists (CAP), the leading organization of board-certified pathologists, and the public, by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. An accreditation awarded to laboratories meeting the highest standards of excellence in quality laboratory practices; Royale Hayat Hospital proudly joined a group of more than 7,000 laboratories worldwide and 47 in GCC and the Middle East for meeting and exceeding regularity requirements as well as achieving outstanding improvements in patient safety by advancing the quality of pathology and laboratory services through education and rigorous standards. Dr. Hady El Khodary, Director of Laboratory Services comments, “This accreditation proves once again, that our main objective is to provide the highest quality and reliability. Recognizing the crucial role laboratory tests play in the diagnostic and treatment process, we at Royale Hayat Hospital Laboratory guaranteed the availability of technical advancement along with well-trained professionals to handle this mission flawlessly.”

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SELECT Select it is a brand new Kuwaiti initiative which aims to select and highlight projects and people around Kuwait that need that extra little boost in order for them to gain the recognition that they deserve.

What they aim to do is to create amazing coffee table books that not only serve as a portfolio for the projects chosen per annum, but also serve as a guide, a form of a directory, making it easier for people to get into contact with whatever it is that they platform for that year.

For the year 2013 they decided to select talented photographers in Kuwait and give them the opportunity to showcase their work. Have you ever needed a photographer for an occasion but could not find access to their work, making it harder for you to make a choice as to who would better suit your needs and wants? At Select they have hand-picked budding and professional photographers, and broken them down into classifications and categorizations, all you have to do is pick up the book, flip through their directory for the category that it is you need, and be tantalized by the beautiful visuals that the photographers want to share with you.

In society today, where visual arts are ever so expanding, Select Kuwait feel it is only fair to give the deserving the opportunity for recognition. Let the first issue of Select not only be a guide but a collectable that will be cherished forever.

The book is available through these retailers: Someday Café, Brush Café, Baking Tray, CAP Kuwait, ALM Gallery, Gallery ALTilal, FA Gallery, Dar AlFunoon, That Alsalasil Avenues, Style Boutique, Qurtoba Thouq, Mubarikiya Souq.

For more inquiries visit info@select-kw.com or follow them on Instagram @selectkw

TED BAKER AUTUMN WINTER 2013 - TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE Awash with nostalgia and old-fashioned glamor, Ted’s Womenswear collection is a modern classic with a stylish palette of soft nudes and natural hues, deepened with rich chili reds and lighter bottle greens. Inspired by vintage paintings, Ted’s penchant for print and color gets bigger, brighter and bolder with the signature 40s Bloom, Oil Painting and Bejewelled Wing prints featuring on delicate knitwear and full-bodied skirts. Worn as statement pieces, outerwear’s oversized faux fur collars and decorative buttons are distinctly feminine, whilst tailoring sees wholesome textures and modern patterns blend with contemporary prints for a modern take on power dressing. For a more psychedelic flavour, Ted’s taken an unpredictable detour towards a new breed of modern digital print and bold graphics.

Woven geo-jacquards are mixed and matched with neon highlights and bold primary colors to create clean, minimal silhouettes.

Whether you’re a man-about-town or a true country gent, Ted’s taken the express line to dapper and debonair for his Menswear collection. Urban yet urbane mustards and muted teals sit alongside dark reds and purples to deliver an essential collection that puts the ‘aah’ into suave. Jackets with satin trims and heritage details offer a more sophisticated, gentrified feel.

Departing from the casual chino, a smarter trouser in cotton, or heavier woollen fabrics sits back with knitted waistcoats and tailored blazers.

Art Deco inspired geometric prints and vintage collar pins give shirts a cleaner and more spontaneous style. If there’s a nip in the air, layer up with luxuriously light knitwear in refined merino wools to catch the eye of fellow passengers. Last but not least, embossed leather and canvas feature across holdalls, satchels and cases; umbrellas and pocket squares ensure the quintessential gentleman is always well turned out. So try something fresh, go somewhere new and most importantly, take the scenic route with Ted this season: striking colors, breath-taking prints and dramatic fabrics designed to make you stop in your tracks.

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An Arab Abroad

THE FRESHMAN FIFTEEN

by Yara Al Wazir

One of my biggest fears when I moved out to live on my own was the dreaded ‘Freshmen Fifteen’. Rumour has it that the freshmen fifteen is as common as the Fresher’s Flu that takes over students’ bodies in the UK at the end of Fresher’s week – it’s a phenomenon that’s extremely hard to avoid. The Freshmen Fifteen encompasses fifteen pounds worth of fat and junk food that make their way to your body.

In Kuwait, weight gain is of the norm. With fast food places around every corner, you think we’d be experts at maintaining our weight: I’ll be the first to admit that my body in Kuwait was nowhere near what it should have been, considering my age and background. However, nothing shocked my system as much as my determination to break the rule of The Freshmen Fifteen. In my determination, I ended up losing a good twenty pounds in my freshman year – something much needed! However, my weight did fluctuate for the first few weeks, but time taught me how to keep it under control.

Don’t depend on University cafeterias, but use their nutritional information They say desperate times lead to desperate measures – I was desperate one too many times.

It was a hard lesson, but I learned that the food served at university cafeterias is likely to be grimy, greasy, and not nutritious at all. If you’re in the UK, you’re bound to be served starchy, carb-filled potatoes with every meal, it’s truly shocking how potatoes can be served is so many forms.

Legally speaking, if you’re sold food any where in the USA or Europe, the vendor is meant to provide you with the full nutritional information about your dish. Most universities have links to this online; if I know I’m on campus for a long day and that there’s no way of avoiding campus food, I’ll check the nutritional information and make sure what I go for will both fill me up and be healthy.

Cook in a group Cooking for one person is hard, and cooking every day is even harder. Try to team up with your flatmates, housemates, or roommates and alternate cooking duties. This is also a great way to absorb the various food cultures from around the world, and to experience new types of food that you never knew existed.

I will admit, however, that as a vegetarian, I struggle with cooking in a crowd; even though I can make a meat-version of my dish, people tend to assume that vegetarians can just push the 114

meat aside when they eat. So, before striking a deal to alternate cooking days with someone, make sure you’re on the same page with your eating habits. If you’re not, strike several deals.

Sure, it’ll be hard to keep up at that point, but who cares when someone else is cooking meals for you half the time?

The great outdoors My favorite excuse for not getting enough exercise in Kuwait was the weather – not like all our gyms weren’t indoor and air-conditioned.

Nevertheless, I blamed my fat childhood on the weather. Once you’re aboard, you can truly embrace the great outdoors and utilise them for exercise; from cycling, to walking, or even hiking – the opportunities are endless and again, they’re a great way of getting to know the city that you’re in.

Nothing quite beats getting lost.

Take up a sport This has got to be, by far, one of the greatest ways to meet people. Recreational sports are incredible. Not only do they help you stay fit, but

they also help you develop great communication and teamwork skills, which are vital when you move into the workforce. Admittedly, showing up to try-outs or practice alone without knowing anyone is intimidating at first, but if you never try, then you’ll never know.

Personally, I took up running and football. It didn’t take long before it became part of my every day life. I now run at least 20 kilometres a week, and play three or four football tournaments a year.

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that weight fluctuations are inevitable, especially when you’re making such a big change. Don’t fall into the whirlwind of obsessing, or of completely letting yourself loose – food, like university, is a balancing act. A little bit of everything makes for a happy and healthy mind set.

Yara Al Wazir is an activist and student currently based in the UK - her monthly column reflects on her experience of moving away from the familiarity and comfort of Kuwait, to the UK in pursuit of a university degree. She can be reached via Twitter on @YaraWazir.

VIDAL SASSOON

ACHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

by Sumayyah Meehan

Fact: The human sneeze can travel up to 100 miles per hour. That means that even if you sneeze when no one is around, spit and particles from your nose will spread 150 feet away affecting anyone who has the misfortune of being in the vicinity.

This summer might just go down as the windiest, dustiest and even hottest season ever.

After residing in Kuwait for quite awhile, the past couple of months have truly been a futile battle waged between myself and the sand. Forget about the huge sandstorms that drop a load of sand and move on their merry way, it’s the small inconspicuous swirls of sand that are the real menaces. The wind whips up just enough sand to leave a thin layer of dusty sand behind. It muffs up the exterior of your car and invades the interior through any vent it can find, resulting in a dust bowl of sorts as you drive your vehicle.

The sweet confines of my home have been equally bombarded with more sand than I can shake a 116

stick (or perhaps a feather duster) at! A simple walk through my living room results in a thin layer of reddish sand staining the soles of my feet.

For the past several years, around mid-August, I always find myself obsessively checking the daily weather reports praying for a huge rainfall well before the dog days of summer have any intention of ending. I find myself checking my weather app even though I know it will either show rows of cheerful sun icons or wind icons that predict endless days of windy weather that whip up every grain of sand in its path. Grappling with the never-ending days of wind and sand this summer has been difficult to say the least. I have armed myself with vast quantities of eye drops, tissues and nose drops. In reality, nothing really helps.

Yet I still engage in my futile attempt to see and breathe in the midst of it all.

Perhaps the worst aspect of it all is sneezing.

That’s right! I have gone from dainty little sneezes that are barely audible to enormous sneezes that

could rip the roof off. Some days, I sneeze with such force that my upper and lower teeth collide with shattering precision. And it’s not only one sneeze at a time...it’s a series of sneezes that come one after the other leaving me powerless to speak or even open my eyes for a good couple of minutes.

I never knew that you could actually sneeze while you are fast asleep. Thanks to the dusty weather, I’ve been waking up at 5 am courtesy of a raucous sneeze that slaps me out of my slumber.

Sneezing has become a pastime this summer with everyone in my family, including our cat, spending several minutes a day “achooooing” and running for the tissue box. Dare I dream of greener pastures across the pond back in the States? I say “No” given that my home country is currently battling wildfires, excessive flooding, killer mosquitoes and brain-eating amoebas. In the grand scheme of things, dealing with the dust is a walk in the park. So I guess it might just be better to sneeze and bear it.

TACO BELL

9 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR OFFICE MORE FUN

by Miles Kohrman

Is your office sort of blah? Are your coworkers disengaged? Fear not, we’ve got some quick productivity-boosting fixes so fun that you’ll forget you ever wanted to go home three hours ago.

You want to work in a fun environment. Of course you do. Who doesn’t?

Just listen to Kenexa, a Pennsylvanian human resources software company that lives by a simple principle: Employees just want to have fun. And that fun doesn’t result simply in smiles and laughs--it brings a tangible increase in workplace happiness and productivity. A more enjoyable workplace makes individuals perform better, in almost every aspect of their lives.

According to Kenexa, turnover among managers who feel pride in their company is 21% lower than among those who don’t. Adds the Kenyan-born, Canadian-educated CEO Rudy Karsan: “When you’re in a job that you enjoy and you’re good at, you’re not just a better worker. You’re a better spouse, a better parent, a better citizen.

So, in the spirit of pleasant workplaces everywhere, here’s a compilation of fast and fun things you can do to put a smile on your coworkers’ faces--and boost productivity.

OFFICE DOG It’s no secret that we want an office dog.

So far, Pinterest is as close as we’ve gotten.

Office dogs can offer a huge boost to business and teach you how to work better. And let’s be honest, they just make everybody happy.

COMMUNAL LUNCH Everybody eats, so why not eat together, and get to know each other in the process?

You might discover a new food, or, you know, introduce yourself to somebody new.

DECORATE YOUR OFFICE! What’s that, not everybody like white walls, white ceilings, and soulless lighting? Just because it’s an office, doesn’t mean it has to be an office. When you spend such a significant amount of time in one space, it’s important that it reflects not only the culture of the company, but the people who make it run. (Related: Sometimes it’s best to take meetings outside the office.) A nice work environment might even convince you to--gasp--look forward to work!

GROUP EXERCISE Albany-based media company Overit takes a two-minute break every hour, on the hour, for its employees to exercise. The benefits of such a program are manifold, says Overit’s Jen Graybeal. “We’ve seen a big difference not just in terms of the way we look but the way we feel,” she says.

If you’re not up for jumping jacks in the workplace, yoga and meditation are wonderful alternatives--both provide excellent health 118

benefits and can revive you for your workday.

THAT ONE WEIRD THING THAT NO OTHER OFFICE HAS Every office has some fun feature that you can’t really find anywhere else. It’s probably unique, personal, and gives you a sense of ownership--like you’re in a secret club or something.

So, if you don’t have Monopoly-themed conference rooms (we’re just bragging now), it’s time to do something creative.

A GOOD SNACK STASH Stocking a snack drawer is cheap, and creates a focal point for conversation in the office. It also keeps people really happy, because they don’t have to constantly run out of the office if they want a bite to eat.

PLAY GAMES AND HAVE FUN Need to take a break to recharge? Maybe play a

boardgame or ping-pong, or, in our case, embarrass yourself in a game of office-wide Jeopardy.

PRANKS Like any good team member, you know that when a someone goes on an extended vacation, you have one responsibility: Prank them. Not only is it hilarious if done well, but your victim will know that they’ve been missed, and appreciate it.

IN-HOUSE BARISTA At Square, employees can not only take free classes on how to build terrariums, but also have access to an office barista. That’s right, there’s a barista in the office! We have a smile on our face just thinking about it.

And with that, there’s only one more thing left (for you) to say: “Hey boss, you should check out this really smart article I just found.”

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bazaar checks it out MAKE UP FOR EVER REINVENTS MASCARA WITH SMOKY EXTRAVAGANT Some women go for a natural look while others opt more sophisticated makeup, but one thing all women want is the intense, compelling gaze that comes with clearly defined, visible lashes. MAKE UP FOR EVER launches the transformative everyday clump-free mascara, Smoky Extravagant in a rich black shade which combines both dramatic impact for a look that is intense and strong from far, where length and volume stand out and graphic precision for close-ups, where lashes are flawlessly separated with professional precision. It is the ideal tool for women who like lashes that are noticeable but clearly separated, with XL length, volume, and fine curl extending all the way from the base to the tip. The Smoky Extravagant brush offers instant intense eyes. The conical shape of the brush applies a generous quantity with the first coat and its fine tip can reach even the smallest lashes. It is applied to the lashes one by one, from root to tip for a high-impact and extreme precise results. Suitable for lashes of all sizes, the new Smoky Extravagant mascara is ideal for professionals, who have to work fast and effectively, and for women looking for state-of-the-art mascara that is easy to apply.

THE NEW PEUGEOT 301 - STRONG OUTSIDE, GENEROUS INSIDE Kuwait Automotive Imports Co. WLL (Al Shaya & Al Sagar), the authorised distributor for Peugeot in Kuwait since 1969, recently unveiled the new Peugeot 301, the latest addition to the Peugeot range of cars. The launch was held in the presence of senior officials from Kuwait Automotive Imports Co. WLL and invited VIP guests.

At the launch ceremony Mr Ashish Tandon mentioned that Peugeot had been a car maker since 1889 and when it came to designing the 301, Peugeot’s experience, expertise and commitment to innovation took centre stage. “The new 301 has been specifically designed to appeal to a wide customer base”, added Mr Ali Sabbagh, Brand Manager – Peugeot. “It has been developed to adapt to all conditions of use, even in extremes such as hot countries, cold countries and poor road surfaces.”

Sturdy and reliable, Peugeot’s new saloon benefits fully from the technical expertise of the brand, placing its strength in its everyday versatility.

Peugeot’s expertise in suspension systems explains the brand’s reputation for excellence in terms of road handling. 301 benefits naturally from this strong heritage. Completely at ease both on winding roads and motorways, the 301 is also great for city driving! Its precise and responsive electric power steering makes it particularly easy to park or get around in urban areas.

By taking on the brand’s strong style codes, the 301 commands attention. Its elegant design, eye-catching silhouette and harmonious lines are both modern and sturdy at the same time.

The 301 asserts its identity through its strong front design with chrome-outlined wide mouth grille, refined contours and well-grounded silhouette which further hints at its impressively spacious interiors and excellent road handling. Chrome touches add an extra note of refinement. Not only does the 301 want to be pleasurable on the road, but to the eye as well!

The 301 comes equipped with a range of equipment designed to make your journeys easier. From its comfortable interior to its driver assistance technology and plush dashboard, the 301 is a perfect blend of style and driving comfort.

LABEL.M THERAPY AGE-DEFYING RADIANCE OIL. beau-tique cosmetics international announced the launch of their new label.m Therapy Age-Defying Radiance Oil, as the latest addition to label.m’s luxury Therapy Age-Defying range. As the first anti-ageing luxury hair oil infused with Rejuven-8 Complex and Moroccan Argan Oil, label.m Therapy Age-Defying Radiance Oil primarily targets dry, damaged or dull hair, where the ability to sustain elasticity, volume and moisture slowly depletes over time. The oil works in four key ways to benefit hair; conditioning, helping to strengthen, moisturize and nourish hair cuticles; pre blow-dry, protecting whilst reducing overall drying time; styling, reducing frizz and sealing split ends for healthier appearance, and finishing, instantly promoting suppleness, smoothness and shine. This amazing Age-Defying haircare range, incorporating the patentpending Rejuven-8 Complex, has eight of the most technologically advanced anti-ageing ingredients, and is designed to reverse the visible signs of ageing, leaving hair looking strong, radiant and youthful.

For more information please call beau-tique cosmetics international on 2225 1285.

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LANDMARK GROUP LAUNCHES ITS FLAGSHIP CENTREPOINT AND HOME CENTRE STORES Landmark Group, the region’s leading retail and hospitality conglomerate, celebrated the opening of its largest Centrepoint and Home Centre stores in Kuwait. Located in the hugely popular The Avenues, the new Centrepoint store offers the latest summer collection for women, men, children and kids while the new Home Centre store offers a variety of interesting picks for diverse home furnishing needs. To mark the celebration, Landmark Group hosted an exclusive ribbon cutting ceremony which was attended by the wife of His Highness the Crown Prince of Kuwait, Sheikha Sharifa Al-Jassim, and Mdm, Wedad Al Abbdulrazzaq. Members of the press and Landmark Group management were also present.

Attendees to the opening ceremony were treated to a preview of the store’s summer 2013 collection. Speaking at the launch of the new stores Saibal Basu, Chief Operating Officer, Landmark Group Kuwait said: “Expansion has always played an important role in Landmark Group’s growth strategy. Today the Landmark Group has a total of 14 stores at The Avenues representing different brands including Splash, Max, Newlook, ICONIC, Steve Madden, Dumond, Pablosky, Carpisa, Reiss, Kurt Geiger, Carluccio’s and the newly opened Centrepoint Home Centre and Shoexpress”. “Centrepoint and Home Centre are among the fastest growing brands in our growing portfolio of the retail brands we are able to offer our customers. We look forward to delivering unparalleled overall shopping experience at convenient locations.” Shopping at Centrepoint and Home Centre is an experience in itself. From trendy fashion looks to inspiring accessories, the stores are designed for easy browsing and colorful display areas. The new collection at Home Centre showcases a mix of modern and transitional furniture and home decor accessories in vivid and colorful styles, offering something for every taste. The collection comprises timeless products that hold utility value and aesthetic appeal. Home Centre’s combination of unique designs and refreshing colors reflects popular global trends in home décor. Every season, Centrepoint produces a collection that is unique and fits with its overall philosophy. The new store offers the latest fashion range with the hottest new international trends in textures and fabrics to guarantee its patrons an enjoyable shopping experience.

Landmark Group is keen to be within reach of its Kuwait customers with social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram - @LandmarkQ8.

MAZAGAN BEACH & GOLF RESORT MOROCCO OFFERS BREEZY STAYS FOR KUWAITIS Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, the leading tourism destination in the Arab World, has unveiled family summer packages for Kuwaiti visitors until 30 September 2013. The resort is offering tailored packages including stay 4 nights pay 3 and stay 7 nights pay 5 plus extra benefits.The packages are in response to the rising demand from Kuwaiti high end tourists for luxury stays, attracted by breezy beautiful weather during summer time. The package includes: • A stay in a double room for two adults and two kids under the age of 12 • Breakfast buffet for 2 adults and 2 kids and Other Meals for kids • Access to leisure and wellness activities including biking, tennis, archery, fitness centre and hammam steam room • Airport shuttle transfers by scheduled shuttle service Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, located 90 km south of Casablanca in El Jadida, is a coastal destination resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Set around a magnificent internal courtyard, the resort’s 500 rooms boast unspoilt views of the ocean, lagoons, golf course, landscaped gardens and a stunning swimming pool in the center.

For reservations, please contact reservations@mazaganbeachresort.com or call +212 523 388 000 or visit http://www.mazaganbeachresort.com

KORLOFF PARIS Highway Chronographe Collection The Highway Chronographe Edition changes according to the time zone it’s in. Faithful to the traveler spirit, it continues its voyage through wall-to-wall meetings and impossible timetables.

The Highway Chronographe has a dual-face case, true to the traveler’s image. On one side, an aggressive, sporty Ferrari red. On the other, a powerful, formal dial with 2 time zones, making travelling the world and adjusting to time part of the Highway Chronographe’s DNA. The Chromo part features a background sand blasted with 12 arabic figures; the Korloff logo is applied in silver at 12 o’clock. The classic part contains a background of côte de genève pattern, 2 counters with 2 time zones. The background is sandblasted and contains 4 roman numbers. The strap is black alligator and rubber, with a stainless steel buckle. Certified Swiss made, this watch is practical and pure class.

For more information visit: www.korloffparis.com

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big boys toys Because grown men still need to play

MACHINE ERA WALLET

HOUNDSTOOTH VALET CLOTHES DUMPSTER

STEAKSTONES

Rethink the way you carry with the Machine Era Wallet (KWD 8-12). Machined from a solid piece of metal — either aluminum or brass — they keep all your stuff in place with an elastic band. At just a quarter inch of thickness, they barely make a dent in your pocket (but, don’t think that means they sacrifice durability). The aluminum wallet comes in a flat black finish, and is the cheaper and lighter of the two. The brass wallet is heavier, and comes unfinished, allowing the metal to age to a nice patina.

For the metrosexual in all of you, The Houndstooth Valet, created by France-based designer Atelier-D is a glorified way of dumping your clothes and shoes in your room, without looking like a sloth.

Essentially this stylish maple structure features two black acrylic shelves that help you organize your clothes, shoes and accessories. The plastic trays are perforated with a houndstooth pattern, in reference to textile and fashion.

Simple and functional!

If you’re looking for a new way to prepare a meal and impress dinner guests, check out SteakStones (KWD 40). After heating the lava stone in the oven, it stays hot for 20-30 minutes — plenty of time to sear and cook a steak, seafood, or lamb however you like it. It rests neatly in its cradle, warming any food below, and providing a serving station for your meal.

Get several steak stones and allow your guests to prepare their own meat, or get the sharing platter and cook for two.

www.uncrate.com

www.uncrate.com

www.uncrate.com

SURFACE TENSION ARCADE TABLES

CAPTURE CAMERA CLIP V2

RAY-BAN REMIX SUNGLASSES

Ditch that boring coffee table in your living room and replace it with one of the Surface Tension Arcade Tables (KWD 800-1000). These arcade and entertainment systems come installed inside hand-built tables, with wood veneer available in a number of finishes, and a discreet, darkened glass cover. They come with built-in arcade-style controllers, and come packed with classic arcade games. Choose a higher-end model if you want yours to also come with a Windows 7 Homepowered PC, Sonos Connect, and the ability to connect to your HDTV.

The ultimate tool for all photographers, Capture is a durable metal clip that lets you carry your camera on any backpack strap, belt or bag. Its unique quickrelease system keeps your camera rigidly secure, yet instantly accessible with the click of a button.

Capture frees you from cumbersome camera straps and lets you go anywhere with your camera safe and in reach, making sure you never miss another shot. In 2011 the Capture Clip was invented and launched on Kickstarter. The new and improved version - lighter, slimmer and more secure. Now also comes in CapturePRO for the serious pros.

Create a pair of shades that’s uniquely yours with Ray-Ban Remix Sunglasses (KWD 45-60). This service lets you start with a base style (choose from several wayfarers or aviators) and customize everything from the front, to the temples — including lenses, monograms, and your case.

Options include tortoise, black, and various gradients for the front and temples. Lenses are available in over a dozen colors, including some polarized options. With nearly 3,000 variations possible, odds are, your pair will be one of a kind.

www.uncrate.com

www.kickstarter.com

www.yankodesign.com

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MEDISANA

bazaar movie night The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in September

KICK ASS 2

RIDDICK

PLANES 3D

Release Date: September 5 Theaters: Grand Cinema and Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime Cast: Chloë Grace Moretz/Aaron Taylor-Johnson/Jim Carrey

Release Date: September 5 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller Cast: Vin Diesel/Karl Urban

Release Date: September 12 Theaters: Grand Cinema Genre: Adventure, Animation, Family Cast: Dane Cook/Stacy Keach/Brad Garrett

Synopsis: His heroic antics having inspired a citywide wave of masked vigilantes, Kick-Ass joins their ranks to help clean up the streets, only to face a formidable challenge, when Red Mist transforms himself into the world›s first super villain and, in an act of revenge, starts to threaten everyone and everything Kick-Ass knows, in this sequel written and directed by Jeff Wadlow (Never Back Down).

Meanwhile, after hanging up her uniform to navigate the high school social-scene Hit Girl realizes that the only way to save Kick-Ass and his new friends is to emerge from her forced retirement, and fight back with everything she’s got.

Synopsis: Riddick, the latest chapter of the groundbreaking saga that began with 2000’s hit sci-fi film Pitch Black and 2004’s The Chronicles of Riddick reunites writer/director David Twohy (The Fugitive) and star Vin Diesel. Left for dead on a sun-scorched planet, Riddick, a dangerous, escaped and wanted convict, finds himself up against an alien race of predators. Activating an emergency beacon alerts two ships: one carrying a new breed of mercenary, the other captained by a man from Riddick’s past.

With time running out and a storm on the horizon that no one could survive, his hunters won’t leave the planet without Riddick’s head as their trophy.

Synopsis: Cars gets a spin-off with this Disney Toon Studios film starring the voice of Dane Cook as Dusty, a vertically-challenged, cropdusting plane who dreams of competing in a famous aerial race. The problem? He is hopelessly afraid of heights. With the support of his mentor Skipper and a host of new friends, Dusty sets off to make his dreams come true. Also features the voices of many famous actors including Teri Hatcher, Julia Loius-Dreyfus, Priyanka Chopra, John Cleese and Anthony Edwards.

PERCY JACKSON: SEA OF MONSTERS

THE WORLD’S END

RUNNER, RUNNER

Release Date: September 12 Theaters: Grand Cinema and Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Family Cast: Logan Lerman/Alexandra Daddario/Brandon T. Jackson

Release Date: September 19 Theaters: Grand Cinema and Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Comedy, Sci-Fi Cast: Rosamund Pike/Simon Pegg

Release Date: September 26 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller Cast: Ben Affleck/Justin Timberlake

Synopsis: In order to restore their dying safe haven, Percy Jackson (Logan Lerman), the son of Poseidon and his friends continue their epic journey to fulfill his destiny, and embark on a quest to the Sea of Monsters to find the mythical Golden Fleece, which has the power to save their home and training ground, Camp Half-Blood, while trying to stop an ancient evil from rising.

Directed by Thor Freudenthal (Hotel for Dogs, Diary of a Wimpy Kid).

Synopsis: The third instalment of director Edgar Wright’s trilogy of comedies starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, following the success of Shaun of the Dead (2004) and Hot Fuzz (2007). In this comedy, five friends reunite in an attempt to top their epic pub crawl from 20 years earlier. As they attempt to reconcile the past and present, they realize the real struggle is for the future, not just theirs but humankind’s. Reaching The World’s End is the least of their worries.

Synopsis: Richie, a Princeton college student who pays for school with on-line gambling, bottoms out and travels to Costa Rica to confront the online mastermind and sly offshore entrepreneur, Ivan, whom he believes has swindled him. Ivan sees a kindred spirit in Richie and brings the younger man into his operation. When the stakes get incredibly high and dangerous, and Richie comes to fully understand the deviousness of his new boss, he tries to turn the tables on him.

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For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest you visit: Cinescape www.cinescape.com.kw or Facebook - @Cinescape – Kuwait National Cinema Company, Grand Cinemas kw.grandcinemas.com or Facebook @Grand Cinemas Kuwait.

BACK TO SCHOOL CHOICES WITH SMART PRICES! STEPPING IN WITH RIGHT SHOES

LIGHT BAG ON MY BACK

STATIONARY INDEED TO SUIT EVERY NEED

QUALITY CLOTHING AT QUALITY PRICES

NASSER SPORTS

!‫ذكاء االختيار مع التشــكيلة واألسعار‬

THE DRIVE TO THE CARIBBEAN Are we there yet?

by Fatmah Al-Qadfan

I left the grey congested San Jose behind and headed toward the eastern shore of Costa Rica for a sunny weekend. Armed with at least three types of mosquito repellent, a sharp pocket knife and a camera that screams “look at me, I’m a tourist!” I was prepared to soak up the Caribbean.

I could not wait to sink my toes into the warm sand, take some postcard-worthy photos and get my first taste of jerk chicken.

It was a long drive from the heart of Costa Rica to the coast; I eventually stopped bouncing in my seat like a five year-old going to an amusement park and settled down. I conversed with the driver/ guide, a knowledgeable man in his forties just bursting with nationalistic pride. He asked me, do you know that Costa Rica has no army? That Costa Rica aims to be the first carbon neutral country?

That Costa Ricans are the happiest people in the world? I did not know. I took out my notebook and scribbled those nuggets down as the car made its way through the narrow roads of the city and into the lush countryside. In between pointing out strawberry fields and the roadside cheese sellers, the guide rattled off more tidbits of information.

I learned that Costa Rica is the biggest producer of pineapple, that life expectancy is one of the highest in the world, and that a “soda” in Costa Rica is not a high caloric fizzy drink, but a small family-owned restaurant that serves traditional dishes for about $3 a plate.

But I got restless again; even the lively conversation 126

was not enough to keep me occupied. We had to make a couple of stops during that five-hour drive to Puerto Viejo because I could not resist the shops that lined the streets. The heaps of multicolored fresh produce were calling out to me and I practically ran out of the van when the driver pulled over. I wandered around the stores, picking up passion fruit, lychees and local breads sweetened with brown sugar, infused with vanilla, dusted with coconut and covered with plastic wrap pulled taut to protect the goods from swarming flies. The choices were overwhelming, the pinks, the blues and the greens, vivid and tantalizing. I quickly accumulated bags of succulent fruits that kept me busy the rest of the way.

We drove through long tunnels, past muddy canyons and overflowing rivers where rafters maneuvered their way through rough currents. I lost count of the monster trucks that rushed past us with piles of green pineapples. Bananas, papayas and tropical fruits are picked from plantations when they are still green and then make their way across the world on refrigerated ships. When they reach their final destination the produce is placed in ripening rooms to accelerate the artificial maturation process before being finally sold to consumers like us. I did not expect unethical practices of multinational corporations to become a theme that I had to contend with on my trip to the coast but it’s impossible to turn a blind eye when you’re at an industrial agriculture hub.

In the early afternoon, we rolled into Puerto Viejo and the laid back Bohemian atmosphere was almost tangible. Time slows down in that small beach town. Days start with sun salutations on the beach and end with the strumming of guitars at crowded smoky hostels. Art shows and festivals mark the weeks in Puerto Viejo, and the years bring young families from around the world to settle in an artsy town where social rules need not apply. My tour guide voiced his contempt for this idealistic living. He pointed to starry-eyed young Europeans and North Americans dragging their surfboards and yoga mats to the beach.

“They haven’t showered in weeks!” he exclaimed.

“The first rule here is to throw your soap and shampoo away.”

The air was humid and thick with buzzing mosquitoes. I encountered hairy spiders the size of my fist and was cautioned to watch my step even though snakes typically slither away at the slightest rumbling of approaching footsteps. I did not get a chance to try the local flavors like jerk chicken or patacones and nobody warned me about the torrential rain that would confine me to my room from sunset to sunrise every day. But the brightly colored shacks and huts that stood out against the verdant jungle made me smile and the screeching howler monkeys grew on me. I was definitely on the Caribbean coast and even though I had to manage my expectations, just seeing those beautiful rolling waves was worth it.

SNYDERS

bazaar investigates BELLA DIAMONDS - THE NEW COLORED CONTACT LENSES COLLECTION NOW LAUNCHED On the occasion of the launch of its latest collection of Bella Diamond’s contact lenses, Optical Supplies invited members of the press and optics professionals to its press conference at the Holiday Inn Salmiya, revealing the beautiful Kim Kardashian as the lead global promoter of the range. Mr. Ibrahim Wehbe, General Manager of Optical Supplies, displayed the unique collection of contact lenses to the market, offering a unique variety of colors that will enhance the beauty of the eyes for utmost appeal and elegance. The latest generation, named Diamonds, is characterized by six unique colors – Shining Gray, Shades of Gray, Blue Marine, Blond, Brown and Green. That special sparkle from Bella Diamonds comes from a unique feature that allows the eyes to look attractive and beautifully natural while appearing larger and brighter. While other brands are only able to provide either of these features, Bella Diamonds has succeeded for the first time in history to integrate them into a single lens. The collection is also characterized by its softness and flexibility due to the innovative cleansing soluble made of sodium hyaluronate, allowing the lenses a considerable amount of moisturizing and softening for extended periods of time, ideal for those who suffer from eye dryness.

NEW PANAMERA OFFERS UNPRECEDENTED BREADTH OF RANGE Porsche Centre Kuwait announces the arrival of the new Panamera The Porsche Panamera, the brand’s four-seater sports car for every day which gave the automotive executive class a new lease of life, is expanding further with the introduction of the second generation at Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company. An unprecedented ten derivatives are now available, with three debut models joining a redeveloped line-up. With the new Panamera, the sports carmaker has pushed the contradictions to the limit: even sportier dynamics and greater efficiency with more comfort and a decidedly sharper design for the ultimate driving pleasure.

Part of the unrivalled breadth of range are the Panamera 4S Executive and Panamera Turbo Executive, with an extended wheelbase. They take the sporty saloon into the luxurious Executive segment. A third new model, the Panamera S E-Hybrid, marks a new technological benchmark as the world’s first plug-in hybrid in the luxury class.

Furthermore, a completely new three-litre V6 engine that features biturbo charging for the Panamera S and Panamera 4S is introduced. One of the most marked upgrades to the new generation is its increased fuel efficiency. New technologies mean fuel savings of up to 56 per cent and – with the exception of the diesel model – more power. The standard version offers a blistering top speed of 259 km/h, 310 horsepower and a fuel consumption of just 8.4 l/100 km, proving efficiency need not mean a compromise in sporting performance. The model redesign has an enhanced driver experience at its core. The redeveloped Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) with virtual intermediate gears further improves fuel economy and comfort. At the front suspension, larger chassis mounts offer even more comfort and greater solidity, whilst advanced steering box mounts provide a more direct response. Newly developed tires, lighter 18-inch wheels and a specifically tuned Porsche Stability Management (PSM) add to the car’s sportiness and comfort. Traditional values and pioneering design come together to form an accomplished unit. Visually tighter lines, more pronounced contours and newly shaped body elements all combine to enhance the Panamera’s Gran Turismo character.

The new Panamera is now available at Porsche Centre Kuwait.

ESSENTIALLY SWATCH: Into The Moment: Let’s face it: we’re surrounded, assaulted by sound bites, snatches of music, ads, distractions, attractions, messages, alerts and reminders. From all sides, at all hours, everywhere the ocean of noise rushes in, threatening to drown us. Mindful of the need for silence, Swatch has created a gentle reminder. As the world forever shouts to move on, hurry up, catch up, look to the future, Swatch calls time out for a moment of calm. It’s the moment that counts, and the moment is now: THIS MOMENT (SUOW106). White lettering on the minute hand and the dial forms a two-part Zen script twice every hour: BE HAPPY FOR THIS MOMENT—THIS MOMENT IS FOR LIFE. Introducing the Number 27....

Cities are filled with magical stories and myths that sweep like fevers through the streets. Inspired by such legends, Swatch has created a tribute to the power of youth and the urban imagination: GENERATION 27. With nothing but the number 27 on the dial, this new Swatch Gent is what you make of it.

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THE HOLLYWOOD SMILE With Hamad Al-Khudher, Marketing and PR Manager, Al-Mubarakiya Dental Center Nowadays, more people are aware of maintaining their own physical health. That doesn’t necessarily mean that they just do it to feel healthy, but also to strive to look more attractive or boost their image. Also, looking their best would automatically increase their confidence level and therefore they would feel more content. A major part of having the perfect image is of course having the perfect smile. This awareness has increased in the past due to the powerful influence of social media locally and internationally. Celebrities influence many people in different ways, one way is they often do this is to influence people to look and dress better. This is how the slogan ‘’The Hollywood Smile’’ emerged into the spotlight. Some people assume that with just one visit to the dentist you can have The Hollywood Smile, but they are wrong. It is actually a longer process, and it depends on your dental condition and what you want to do. Basically, it’s a smile makeover that involves having perfectly aligned attractive teeth. As mentioned before, achieving The Hollywood Smile involves a number of procedures done step-by-step. One of these procedures is called ‘Bleaching’.

Bleaching can be done at home and/or by visiting your dentist every 4-6 months to keep them white and bright. Getting Veneers is another procedure that plays an important role in achieving The Hollywood Smile. There are two types of Veneers - Ceramic and Composite.

Both differ in product quality, durability, and price. Some patients may need to have braces before doing any of the previous procedures mentioned, depending on the patient’s case and what the dentist suggests. Other procedures include Crown and Gum surgeries. All these procedures together help achieve The Hollywood Smile; however, there may be more procedures for those patients who have damaged teeth.Achieving The Hollywood Smile can be a short or long process. However, the results are very rewarding and therefore worth the patience. Having excellent dental hygiene helps increase self-esteem and makes you want to smile more. The more you smile, the more positive you are and the more people would notice this positive energy. As part of maintaining The Hollywood Smile, regular check-ups are needed to make sure your teeth are at their best health.

For more information as to how Al-Mubarakiya Dental Center can help you create and maintain The Hollywood Smile, please visit www.mubarakiya-dc.com

2013 ‫تشكيلة خريف‬ .‫اإلستراحة العصرية في المدينة‬ ‫ ما عليك سوى السماح لمجموعة أحذية إيكو العصرية أن تحتل الجزء األساسي‬،‫في المرة التالية التي تنوون فيها قضاء إستراحة في المدينة‬ ‫ تتميز التشكيلة الرسمية بتصميم معتدل تبرز فيه تفاصيل‬،‫ من خالل تعبيرها عن األسلوب اإلسكندنافي الخاص بإيكو‬.‫بين ضروريات إجازتك‬ ‫ والتسوق وتناول‬،‫ واإلستمتاع بالمعالم الثقافية‬،‫ ابدئي بحزم حقيبتك لقضاء عطلة األسبوع بأكثر األشياء ضرور ًة للترفيه عن النفس‬،‫عصرية‬ ‫ واسمحي لتشكيلة إيكو الرسمية بمرافقتك في المتحف واألسواق خالل النهار إلى قضاء األمسيات في المطاعم والمسارح‬،‫أفضل األطعمة‬ ‫تقدم مجموعة إيكو تشكيلة من األحذية الكالسيكية التي تتميز بأنها بسيطة وفي نفس الوقت‬.‫خالل استمتاعك بإجازة عصرية فائقة الراحة‬ .‫أنيقة مع تصميم معاصر يناسب جميع المناسبات وهي تشكيلة ملمة بالتفاصيل الغنية بالراحة واألناقة التي تتناسب مع أي زي وفي أي وقت‬ ‫ وتتميز إيكو بتقديم قيمة مضافة تلبي احتياجات‬.‫كما تقدم ماركة إيكو مجموعة متنوعة من األحذية ذات الكعب القصير والمتوسط والعالي‬ ‫ إيكو تحمل أسلوب يجمع بين الراحة و األناقة وجودة منقطعة النظير وتكنولوجيا إبداعية وفلسفتها ( حذاء يتبع‬.‫شريحة الزبائن المتنوعة‬ .‫ تعتبر إيكو ماركة األحذية الوحيدة التي تمتلك مصنع جلودها الخاص وذلك حرصا منها على الجودة واإلنتاج المتقن‬.)‫بصمة القدم‬ ‫ مجمع‬: ‫ كما نتواجد في‬.‫ جمعية الشامية و مجمع أوتاد‬،‫ مجمع المثنى‬،‫ مجمع المهلب‬،‫ الكوت مول‬،‫ مارينا مول‬،‫ األفينوز مول‬: ‫أفرعنا الرئيسية في‬ ecco.com :‫ ولمزيد من المعلومات يرجى زيارة موقعنا اإللكتروني‬.‫ جمعية بيان وكذلك جمعية اليرموك‬،‫ جمعية الروضة‬،‫ جمعية كيفان‬،‫البيرق‬ .eccoKuwait ‫ وأيضًا حسابنا على التويتر‬ecco shoes‫وصفحتنا على الفيسبوك‬ QATAR AIRWAYS HOSTS CHILDREN FOR FUN-FILLED DAY AT KIDZANIA In July, Qatar Airways invited children from Kuwait Association for the Care of Children in Hospital and Al-Kharafi Activity Kids Center for disabled children for an exciting day of fun and entertainment at KidZania Kuwait.

KidZania Kuwait is an award-winning children’s city-concept globally recognized for its unique blend of education and entertainment.

Located in Kuwait’s largest shopping mall, The Avenues, groups of children gathered at KidZania where they had the chance to role play real life activities of their dream professions.

Representatives from Qatar Airways distributed gifts to participating children.

Families of Qatar Airways employees in Kuwait also joined the fun on this special day, reinforcing the airlines commitment to supporting local charitable and social activities during the Holy Month.

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bazaar books Fiction reveals truth that reality obscures. ~ Jessamyn West

HOW TO SWEAR AROUND THE WORLD

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S STAR WARS

by Jason Sacher

by Ian Doescher

There are a few skills every man needs to master before he can feel completely comfortable in his masculinity — grilling a steak to medium-rare perfection, changing the oil on an internal combustion engine, getting by in another language, and cussing up an impressive storm.

This essential phrasebook collects the most colorful, explicit, and outrageous ways to tell people off in every part of the world. Featuring dozens of different languages, the sayings range from everyday swears to family curses to expressions for X-rated relations with animals.

Phonetic pronunciation is provided so that readers can curse like a native, and handy illustrations provide visual guides to these foreign exclamations. Perfect for the international traveler who may need to wish an enemy a painful death, insult a person’s grandmother, or accuse someone’s mother of having intimate relations with bears in the forest.

If your devotion to all things “a galaxy far, far away” is matched only by your affinity for iambic pentameter, then William Shakespeare’s Star Wars: Verily, A New Hope was written with you in mind.

An adaptation of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, this play uses authentic Elizabethan grammar and diction, all while remaining true to the jargon and storytelling of Star Wars.

The saga of a wise (Jedi) knight and an evil (Sith) lord, of a beautiful princess held captive and a young hero coming of age, Star Wars abounds with all the valor and villainy of Shakespeare’s greatest plays. ’Tis a tale told by fretful droids, full of faithful Wookiees and fearstome Stormtroopers, signifying, pretty much everything. Intended less as a parody, and more as a sincere work of literary value, this faithful retelling warrants a serious look.

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DIFFICULT MEN

THE CASUAL VACANCY

DOGTRIPPING

by Brett Martin

by J. K. Rowling

by David Rosenfelt

A riveting and revealing look at the shows that helped cable television drama emerge as the signature art form of the twenty-first century. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the landscape of television began an unprecedented transformation. While the networks continued to chase the lowest common denominator, a wave of new shows dramatically stretched TV’s narrative inventiveness, emotional resonance, and artistic ambition. Combining deep reportage with cultural analysis and historical context, Brett Martin recounts the rise and inner workings of a genre that represents not only a new golden age for TV but also a cultural watershed.

Difficult Men features extensive interviews with all the major players, including David Chase (The Sopranos) and Matthew Weiner and Jon Hamm (Mad Men).

A big novel about a small town... When Barry Fairbrother dies in his early forties, the town of Pagford is left in shock. Pagford is, seemingly, an English idyll, with a cobbled market square and an ancient abbey, but what lies behind the pretty façade is a town at war. Rich at war with poor, teenagers at war with their parents, wives at war with their husbands, teachers at war with their pupils...Pagford is not what it first seems. And the empty seat left by Barry on the parish council soon becomes the catalyst for the biggest war the town has yet seen. Who will triumph in an election fraught with passion, duplicity, and unexpected revelations?

A big novel about a small town, The Casual Vacancy is J.K. Rowling’s first novel for adults. It is the work of a storyteller like no other.

David Rosenfelt’s Dogtripping is moving and funny account of a cross-country move from California to Maine, and the beginnings of a dog rescue foundation. When mystery writer David Rosenfelt and his family moved from Southern California to Maine, he thought he had prepared for everything. They had mapped the route, brought three GPSs for backup, as well as refrigerators full of food, and stoves and microwaves on which to cook them. But traveling with twenty-five dogs turned out to be a bigger ordeal than he anticipated, despite the RVs, the extra kibble, volunteers (including a few readers), and camping equipment.

Rosenfelt recounts the adventure of moving his animal companions across the US with humor and warmth, and tells the tale of how he and his wife became passionate foster parents for rescue dogs, and successfully placed several thousand dogs with loving families.

source: www.amazon.com

CROSTI

END OF VACATION, WHAT NEXT? When we treasure the mundane

by Purva Grover

Packing bags for a holiday is as exciting as unpacking when back home. Yes, don’t be hungover on the luxuries of a fancy vacation but instead count on the pleasures and warmth of the familiar comfort that your home offers.

I am sitting at my desk and drinking a rather strong dose of caffeine. I need the cuppa to bring me back to the oh-so-ordinary routine life. Just yesterday, around the same time, I was lying in a hammock and sipping on a passion fruit drink. I was holidaying at the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand.

I was surrounded by a certain sense of quietness and nothingness; I could hear the birds’ cheerful chirping, the turquoise waters swift movements, and the gorgeous green branches swaying. While I was away, as strange as it sounds, I had told my fellow travelers that I was beginning to miss the ringing of my home doorbell, the beeping of the Blackberry and the honking of the cars too; today as I sit here and hear the clickety-click of the keyboards around me, I am wondering if I could close my eyes for a few seconds and revisit the calm just once more. I know this sounds insane but well, if holidaying has taught me one thing, it is that if there is something better than a break from the mundane, it is the very return to 132

the mundane! No wonder, the comfort of leaving behind the home brings in as much pleasure as that of returning to it.

Picture this: While on a holiday you sleep on luxurious handmade mattresses draped in the finest of linen, which promise you a dreamy and cosy night, however, you still miss the warmth of your humble mattress and plain cotton sheets.

And as much as you gorge on the exotic multicuisine delicacies in the resorts, you find yourself craving for home-cooked food. What’s crazy is that on my trip my friends and I had even joked on how wonderful it would be if we could eat the soupy noodles from our local Chinese take-away, sitting at the beach. Yes, we all love the luxuries and pampering, adventures and relaxing, flights and exploring, and holidaying is what keeps our souls happy, but at the same time a few days into the holiday our mind and body starts to miss the comfort of the familiar. Interestingly, our stressed mind welcomes the ‘new and unique’ with as much ease as it expresses its keenness to run back to the ‘old and familiar’! We love to meet new people but at the same time we long to chat with the ones we already know. Once home, we also begin to respect the dreaded schedule. We

realise that as much as we hate the alarm clock, it is what lends discipline to our lives, which in turn translates into a certain sense of control we have over our time and actions. And even though we find the neighbourhood dog annoying, we do find a sense of belongingness in the sounds and people that surround our lives. And the best lesson of all being that we begin to appreciate the life we’ve made for ourselves. Yes, the whining about life and the office vanishes when one returns to their no-frills comfort zone.

So the next time you board a flight back home, fill your head up with the images of newspapers piled up at your door, the dog wagging its tail at the sight of its caretakers, the colleagues waiting to pounce on you with devious plans, and more! And here’s my suggestion, go on a vacation whenever you can, for you will not only come back rejuvenated but also find yourself falling in love with your home and daily life all over again. Till then, if a maddening presentation gets you in trouble or the house help misses a day’s work, just close your eyes and head on a mental holiday that was.

Images courtesy of Vishal Khullar

HYPOXI

bazaar scopes

ARIES

More clarity and a stronger sense of purpose are with you this month. Money matters tend to be strong, although there can be a need to get serious about your finances towards the end of September. It’s important that you get all of your paperwork into order. Around the time of the Full Moon on the 12th a relationship matter can come to light. Your powers of attraction are especially strong until the 14th with loving Venus in your sign, and your persuasive abilities powerful from the 9-25th.

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

APRIL 20 – MAY 20

MARCH 21 – APRIL 19

TAURUS GEMINI CANCER

OCT 23 – NOV 21 NOV 22 – DEC 21 DEC 22 – JAN 19

PISCES

Emotions settle and September begins with a sense of calm. If you have been waiting for a loan, financial aid, mortgage, or other settlement, this is the month when you’re likely to get the good news. Money is a big focus this month, and you are in a good position to improve your lot in life. Love becomes more about communication and sharing the little things with a special someone after the 14th. After the 18th, the pace of your life picks up, and you have the energy to move mountains. The 23-24th can bring a partnership to life and possibly news of a big trip.

JUNE 22 – JULY 22

AQUARIUS

Relationships are revived this month. While a significant other can seem to have the upper hand, you’re not inclined to keep score.

Instead, you are enjoying the improvements. The Full Moon in your sign mid-month heightens emotions and increases your need for self-expression. You might make an emotional declaration around this time. The 23-24th can bring good news along practical lines, particularly regarding money and work, but it might also have to do with health. You’re making the right connections at this time. You’ll need to get serious about a financial or emotional commitment in the last week.

September is likely to be an especially busy month for you, and while you can feel pulled in a number of directions, you manage to stay on top of things. There are fewer problems with transportation and communication than there were in August, and this helps you to get through your days much easier. The 23-24th is strong for earning money, as well as in recognition of your talents. The last three days of the month bring the need to get serious about your family and domestic life.

LEO

JAN 20 – FEB 18

Good energy for work is with you all month. Your hard work pays off, but be sure to pace yourself so that you don’t tire yourself out (and others too!). You’re in a better position to attract money to you, and good news about your finances can arrive around the 12th.

Relationships heat up in September, especially after the 18th.

Single Aquarians might meet someone special around the 23-24th, and those of you who are already partnered can open up the lines of communication and feel that they’re really moving forward.

September is likely to be a more straightforward month for you.

Financial matters clear up, and work matters move forward. An important culmination of a professional matter can occur around the 12th, when recognition may be forthcoming. Family and domestic life assume more importance than usual. By mid-month, spending habits become more moderate, as security becomes more important to you. You come out of your shell on the 23rd, although the last week of September brings serious energy to a romance or creative project. Answers can come now.

JULY 23 – AUG 22

CAPRICORN

You are expressing the more adventurous, fun-loving side of your personality this month, although in the last week of the month, you are ready to prove your worth. Professional and public matters demand your attention, and it would be wise to come across as responsible and competent as you can. Work pressures and reputation matters can be challenging at that time, and it’s your job to rise above them. Family really comes through for you around the 23-24th. Students are likely to enjoy much success and popularity too during September.

The New Moon at the end of August set the tone for the first four weeks of this month, and it’s a highly creative, romantic, and fun theme! Others are finding you especially appealing, and you are making time for recreation. You could be feeling especially amorous. Creative Bulls will find plenty of inspiration. Recently, there has been much focus on the past in your love life, but September brings forward-looking energy to your relationships.

However, in the last few days of this month, there comes a need to get serious about your work and health.

VIRGO

SAGITTARIUS

This is one of the more public and accountable periods of the year for you. Fortunately, you are coming across in an especially charming light. New directions in your career are in store for you, although they have been in the works for the last six months. While career matters take center stage, there is plenty of room in your life for recreation, enjoyment of friends, and even a spot of adventure.

A family member demands special attention around the 12th.

Don’t pass up on any invites you might receive around the 23-24th, when opportunities to expand your horizons can arise.

Work projects move forward and gain momentum in September.

You’re especially busy this month so find ways to eliminate waste so that you’re more productive. Being busy actually feels good, and this is a strong month for getting a whole lot accomplished.

While you may have been “living in the past” on a romantic level in August, this month you’re looking forward. Answers to relationship questions can come on the 27-30th, when you’re getting serious about your future.

AUG 23 – SEPT 22

LIBRA SCORPIO

Your social life animates this month, and your ability to persuade others is stronger than ever. The Full Moon mid-month can raise the temperature in a romance. Your career once again heats up from the 18th forward - you are large and in charge. Recognition for your least acknowledged talents is forthcoming around the 23-24th. Those Scorpios looking for work can have attractive job offers then. While your working life continues to keep you on your toes through to the end of the month and into October, you begin to require quality personal down time and solitude in the last week of September.

SEPT 23 – OCT 22

Work done in relative solitude is your best bet this month, although the last week of September brings more outgoing energy and a stronger desire to mingle. Friendships become especially lively.

Some of you will be making a new, very positive connection with a helpful person. Strains in your close relationships can be part of the picture towards month’s end. Someone could be questioning your character. Challenges can be overcome, however, and bonds can be strengthened, especially with charming Venus in your sign from the 14th forward. Personal charisma can win the day.

FEB 19 – MARCH 20

what’s your sign?

source: www.2013horoscopes.com 134

STARBUCKS

SOOR C

CENTER

( KORLOFF OBC)