British Muslim Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2018

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MUSLIM AUTUMN 2018 £3.99

M A G A Z I N E

Spectacular Cornwall A seaside spa escape in Cornwall

Paradise on earth?

A peaceful stay in the heart of Sri Lanka

Important issues

Shedding the light on Mental health

Empowering Muslim women to empower a nation ISSN 2056-3159

9 772056 315001

MUSLIM DATE NIGHTS? • EID GIFT IDEAS FOR 2019 • TOP 4 PLACES TO EAT THE BEST SEAFOOD

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MUSLIM M A G A Z I N E

Editors Letter Welcome!

In this issue, we travel to Land’s End, Cornwall, to be treated at the award winning five-star Carbis Bay Hotel & Spa (Page ) - what an amazing experience!

In ‘’Paradise on earth’’ (Page 22) we explore a beautiful island in the Maldives, Kuramathi, and experience ‘’A peaceful stay in the heart of Sri Lanka’’ (Page 27).

Elsewhere, we find a few hidden gem spots: places to eat the best seafood in the country (page 44) and find out who the ambassador of Middle Eastern food is (Page 52).

We had the pleasure of catching up with Adeem Younis (page 20) who certainly represents one of the stand out British Muslim entrepreneurs of our generation. Find out how his company has facilitated over 100,000 Muslim marriages since its launch, that’s around 10 every single day!

Life moves fast, so travel to your heart’s content - do something smart, unforgettable and life changing!

Shumaela Syed - Editor

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British Muslim Magazine is published by Syed PR & Publishing LTD Email: info@britishmuslim-magazine.com

British Muslim Magazine provides inspiration and advice for Muslims in Britain looking for unforgettable and luxurious travel experiences, the Muslim history and heritage to food, fashion and style.

Editor Syeda Shumaela Syed Senior Features Writer Tahira Khan Writers Lara Skingsley, Rabi’ah M, Natasha Syed, Angela Youngman, Marcus Macaulay, Rikkie Knight, Huma Baig & NH. Design MarcusMacaulay.com Publisher Syed PR & Publishing LTD CEO & Commercial Director Syeda Natasha Syed Managing Director Muk Rajah Event’s Director Abbas Syed Digital Production Manager Dene Conway Digital Marketing Co’ordinator Cherie Ann Conway

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Text and pictures are copyright restricted and must not be reproduced without permission of the publishers. The information found in British Muslim Magazine is published in good faith.

However you are strongly advised to check prices, dates and opening times before making final arrangements. The opinions expressed by contributors to British Muslim Magazine are not necessary those of the publisher.

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CONTENTS

M A G A Z I N E

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4

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15

26

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Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic world

31 Empowering Women

To empower a nation

9 Cornwall

This truly is Lands End

33 Going Out for a Drink

Integral part of western culture

15 Carbis Bay Hotel

A relaxing treat!

34 Monaco Travelogue

A sun-soaker’s paradise

16 Dubai

Capital of the Emirates

36 Muslim in the City

Date nights?

20 Adeem Younis

A natural talent for marketing

38 Perfect Picnic?

Some favourite foods

22 Kuramathi

Paradise on earth

39 Summer Sipping

Iced drinks

27 Kandalama

In the heart of Sri Lanka

41 Arabian Fashion

London fashion week

Our beautifully illustrated page’s are devoted to family holiday’s, couples retreats, halal dining, history, heritage, cultural art, luxury shopping, spa’s and more…

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53

58

64

75

85

42 Hair by Ilmaas

A passion for hair

61 Eid Gift Ideas

For your loved ones

75 Mental Health

Important issues

44 Seafood

Where to eat

62 Sarah Sheikh,

Promoting enlightenment

76 Books

Recommended to read

49 British Fruit

Freshest, tastiest fruit

64 RAF Hendon

Incredible interactive day out

77 Spun

Latest theater play

50 Bubble Tea

Originating from Taiwan

66 Vegan Weekend

Yorkshire vegan festival

76 Creative Wedding Ideas

Wed like a royal

52 Tony Kitous

Middle eastern food

68 Waddesdon Manor

National Trust property

85 Honeymooning

Escape to Greece?

54 Zarqa Hamid

Host on Islam Channel

72 Handbag Trends

Back-to-basics

86 Wedding List

The ultimate checklist

58 Wellness News

Ancient Mayan meditation

73 Mens Belts

Luxury leather

90 Spa Review

Fishmore Hall

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Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic World From architectural fragments of a Persian port city and courtly treasures of intricate craftsmanship to rich textiles from the Ottoman Empire and contemporary art, the Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic World opens to the public on 18 October 2018.

A series of free public events will mark the opening, taking place throughout the Museum at a special Friday Late on 19 October and Family Day on 20 October, including performances, storytelling, craft workshops and talks.

A major re-display of the British Museum’s world-class Islamic collection, the new gallery is a comprehensive presentation of the Islamic world through art and material culture.

Situated within a new suite of rooms at the heart of the Museum, it Underscores global connections across a vast region of the world from West Africa to Southeast Asia and reflect

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links between the ancient and medieval as well as the modern worlds.

Islam has played a significant role in great civilisations as a faith, political system and culture.

The new gallery features objects that give an overview of cultural exchange in an area stretching from Nigeria to Indonesia and from the 7th century to the present day.

The British Museum’s collection of Islamic material uniquely represents the finest artworks alongside objects of daily life such as modern games and musical instruments. The collection includes archaeology, decorative arts, arts of the book, shadow puppets, textiles and contemporary art.

The creation of the Albukhary Foundation Gallery provides an extraordinary opportunity to display these objects in new ways that showcase the peoples and cultures of the Islamic world, as well as the ideas, technologies and interactions that inspired their visual culture.

40 minutes from London Waterloo

James Henry Pullen INMATE INVENTOR GENIUS

New exhibition | 19 June - 28 October

Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village wattsgallery.org.uk | Guildford, Surrey

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Cornwall This truly is Lands End

Standing on the tip of Cornwall, all you can see is the Atlantic Ocean – the next landfall westward is America. Not surprisingly, thousands of visitors flock here every year, drawn by the spectacular scenery and amazing stories. This is a land of mystery, of magic; where anything can happen.

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Exploring the dramatic ruins of Tintagel Castle, it is easy to imagine a dark night when Merlin steps forth with the young baby who grows up to be King Arthur. Or think of Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table jousting here, and setting off on their adventures. If the tide is out, venture down into the cove and explore the cool reaches of Merlin’s Cave. Nearby Camelford is perfect for discovering the ancient sites on Bodmin Moor.

Prefer beach holidays? Then head for Newquay, which has one of the UK’s top ten beaches; try the beautiful expanse of Mounts Bay or Porthminster beach. Kynance Cove, close to the Lizard peninsula, offers white sand and turquoise seas.

Everywhere you go along the Cornish coastline, there are rocky coves or long expanses of soft sand. There are countless

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opportunities for water sports, with the Atlantic waves on the Northern side of the country popular with surfers. For those who prefer to stay on land, coastal walking trails such as the South West Coastal path or those around the Fal River area of outstanding natural beauty, provide access to wonderful scenery.

Stroll down cobbled streets in pretty market towns like St Ives or Truro, enjoying some fantastic shopping opportunities, as well as award winning restaurants like Rick Stein’s seafood at Padstow. Fans of Poldark will recognise familiar sights around Padstow such as Tregirls beach, the Camel Estuary and Levlizzick.

The sight of palm trees and gardens filled with subtropical plants highlight the mild climate of South Cornwall, tempered by the warmth of the Gulf Stream. Penzance is www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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The sight of palm trees and gardens filled with sub-tropical plants highlight the mild climate of South Cornwall....

the most westerly town in Cornwall, close to the amazing St Michael’s Mount with a castle that seems almost to hover in the sea. A tidal island that is accessible by causeway or boat, it was visited by Phoenecian ships trading for tin over two thousand years ago. Alternatively, take a cruise across to the Isles of Scilly.

Looking for some culture? Try the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Gardens in St Ives, or find out about modern art at Tate St Ives. Miniack Theatre is totally unique.

An outdoor amphitheatre surrounded by a rocky garden, Miniack’s position, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, provides a superb backdrop to top class musicals, dramas and operas.

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Heading into south Cornwall, the area around Fowey provides superb walking opportunities, whilst at Falmouth, Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII, awaits exploration. This region is well known for its amazing gardens, like the Lost Gardens of Heligan or The Eden Project at St Austell. Home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, The Eden Project even offers an opportunity to zip line across the biodomes!

DON’T MISS….

KYNANCE COVE - www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kynance-cove TINTAGEL CASTLE / MERLINS CAVE www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle TREBAH GARDENS - www.trebahgarden.co.uk

BEST BEACHES TO VISIT… Porthminster Beach Newquay Beach Fistral Beach

STAY AT….

Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate - www.carbisbayhotel.co.uk

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A seaside spa escape

Recently my best friend wanted to treat me to a spa day at The Carbis Bay Hotel, and boy was it a relaxing Treat! By Natasha Syed First Impressions We arrived early in the morning, at around 9:15 - The five-star Carbis Bay Hotel & Spa sits proudly above a large stretch of perfect, golden sand. It’s a dreamy beach setting.

The white-washed property cleverly blends old and new and has a large terrace facing the sea. The Stylish, large reception area has white-washed walls with turquoise accents, giving a fresh beachy feel, and the lovely air purifiers certainly put us in a good mood.

Carbis Bay Hotel has a dramatic Spa setting, which is something that I have never come across before. With pebblelined walls, white-washed woods and cool, earth furnishings, C-Bay Spa is a serene place for a seaside spa escape. The spa is set over two levels, each with views over the Atlantic Ocean and its stunning coastline. We were super lucky, as even though we visited the spa after the summer season, we still managed to lay outside in the sunshine.

There is an outdoor pool and hot tub, a sauna pod, a relaxation lounge, and a VIP treatment suite on the beach. The treatment menu uses Voya and Aromatherapy Associates products to deliver a range of holistic and beauty-based spa therapies.

Although the spa area is small, the treatment rooms are large and luxurious. The facilities include a jacuzzi, a private outdoor, heated 15 metre swimming pool, a food and drink service, a relaxation lounge, a sauna and a nail bar which displays Opi, Voya and Aromatherapy products. You have the opportunity to warm up in the hydro-pool with its super powerful jets whipping up plenty of bubbles; several seats and two lie flat beds can accommodate around eight spa-goer guests.

The Stylish changing rooms are small but have cute wooden lockers - this is where we found our robes and flip-flops, together with our towels.

Once outside, the glorious sun got us really in the mood to lounge on one of the many loungers and make use of the quirky wooden sauna pod while we waiting for our lunch.

Treatment Time We both opted for the 90 minutes Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience (£75 - 60 minutes £95 for the 90 minutes).

This relaxing treatment released tension held in every part of our bodies, leaving us feeling deeply relaxed and re-charged.

Our stresses and strains certainly dissolved away in the time we were there. The Spa has some other great treatments, such www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

as the intensive muscle release (£75), the intensely nourishing scalp massage (£40), the lava shell massage (£85) and detoxing body scrubs & wraps (£95).

The spa is a mixed spa for men and women. We will certainly be back!

Rating **** out of 5

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The capital of the Emirates

By Huma Baig

Most people have heard about the wonders of Dubai, which is known as one of the best tourist destinations in the world, but only an hour and a half away from Abu Dhabi. As the capital of the emirates, the president’s home city, and a host of incredible tourist attractions, the glory of Abu Dhabi should not be underestimated.

So, what are some of the wonders of Abu Dhabi?

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is right at the top of this list. This is one of the most beautiful mosques ever built.

The pure marble walls’ intricate floral designs decorated elegantly with gems make this an architectural masterpiece.

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This is one of the most beautiful mosques ever built...

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For all those adventure lovers, Ferrari World offers the experience of riding the fastest roller coaster in the world; this accelerates to 240 kilometres per hour in just a few seconds. As this is not for the faint hearted, Ferrari World also offers an indoor theme park full of fun attractions. Abu Dhabi has it all covered!

Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for a luxurious and fun filled experience...

As a more traditional city than Dubai, this is the best place to explore Emirati culture, tradition and natural beauty. The Sir Bani Yas Island is located near the coast of Abu Dhabi and houses rare animals such as cheetahs and hyenas. So plan a visit to explore this wildlife paradise.

Itineraries can also be filled with: a visit to a water park; the Emirates palace (the most expensive hotel ever to be built); some fun in the sun on the beautiful Cornishe beach; taking part in water sports; visiting the new Louvre museum as well as many other local cultural events.

Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for a luxurious and fun filled experience with natural surroundings‌ a place not to be overlooked!

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Adeem Younis Born to Parents who were originally from Pakistan, and whose grandfather served in the British Army during WW2, father of four Adeem 37, had a modest upbringing in the Eastmoor area of the city, sadly losing his father at the age of eight.

With firm Yorkshire roots, Adeem attended Outwood Grange School from the age of eleven and it was whilst he was there, that he made up his mind that he wanted to make something of himself. With hard work and good business practices, he has achieved this.

Adeem found he had a natural talent for marketing and design and after studying at Wakefield College and Leeds University, the award winning entrepreneur, started his first business venture, a print and design company above a pizza shop in the heart of Wakefield.

SingleMuslim.com Due to a burning desire to succeed and wanting to settle down and find himself a wife, something that many Muslim’s find difficult, due to geography and location, Adeem had

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an idea for a Muslim match-making agency. Today, Adeem represents one of the stand out British Muslim success stories of our generation. At the tender age of just 37, he is the founder of singlemuslim.com, the UK’s largest Muslim website, boasting over two million users worldwide and has led to over 100,000 marriages, that’s approximately 10 every single day. Visitors are able to find suitable marriage partners, in a safe and respectable environment, something that Adeem can testify to with personal experience.

Muslims are by nature enterprising individuals, and contribute more than £31 billion to the UK economy.

Proportionally, they are also the most generous charity givers.

According to the Muslim Charities Forum, more than £100m is raised during the holy month of Ramadan. The main beneficiaries of Muslim generosity are the UK based Islamic charities. British Muslims should of course respond to humanitarian crisis’ throughout the world, supporting humanitarian programmes and this should be applauded.

However, we need to also look at worthy charitable causes closer to home, here in the UK.

FACT FILE What I drive:

Audi Q7

Favourite holiday destination:

Abu Dhabi

Favourite food:

Fish & chips

Favourite Restaurant:

Cona Restaurant

Favourite gadget:

iPhone

Did you know: Adeem is a double Guinness World Record holder!

Despite this success, Adeem has stayed loyal to his home city of Wakefield, setting-up offices, with expansion plans onto further sites in the city. However, Adeem’s life would’ve been very different if he had been born in Pakistan where a lot of his family live, as there is so much poverty in the country, this was a trip that led to the birth of Penny Appeal.

Penny Appeal It was whilst on a trip to visit family in Pakistan, Adeem’s life changed when he met and sponsored a school teacher in a rural village, who was working for what is a normal salary in the village.

When he returned from the trip, he collected his car from the Airport, and drove to the petrol station to fill up for the journey home, at a cost of around £90. Normally he wouldn’t have thought anything about it, but with the trip to Pakistan fresh in his mind, he calculated that the £90 I had just put into his car, would pay the teachers wages for three months.

This sparked a fresh idea and another new venture for him. www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

In 2009 Penny Appeal was born, a charity which initially he set up to help eradicate poverty in rural Pakistan, Adeem’s ancestral home and which gave him the opportunity to give something back to society.

Since its launch, Penny Appeal has transformed lives and empowered communities around the world, helping to break the poverty cycle and build brighter futures.

Work has grown considerably in the past few years, allowing the charity to launch many new campaigns and work in even more crisis-hit countries.

All projects are carefully constructed and designed to be accessible and effective. They are a blend of emergency support, short-term relief and longer-term sustainable interventions. This multi-focus approach means the charity can save lives immediately, improve situations in the coming days and weeks, and transform communities for years to come, always giving desperate people the support they need depending on their situation.

Penny Appeal reaches out to benefit the maximum number of people in need, in ways that cost donors just a small amount of loose change each day.

Today Penny Appeal is worth £25m annually and provides poverty relief across Asia, the Middle East and Africa, by offering water solutions, supporting orphan care, organising mass feedings and providing emergency food and medical aid.

More information including the full list of campaigns and fundraising activities can be found at www.pennyappeal.org Over the last twelve months, Adeem has won numerous awards for his work. He was regional winner of the Institute of Directors Young Director of the Year and highly commended in the national finals.

He was a double winner in the NatWest 2018 awards, Entrepreneur of the Year with Penny Appeal also a winner.

Adeem won Entrepreneur of the Year in the English Asian Business Awards and Entrepreneur of the Year in the British Muslim Awards. In 2018 he was honored in his home town, being made Entrepreneur of the Year in the Wakefield Business Awards. Adeem is also an Ambassador of the Yorkshire Society.

Penny Appeal is also a double Guinness World Record Holder.

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Paradise on earth

As one of the largest and most established islands in the Maldives, Kuramathi, at 1.8km long, boasts beautiful beaches: Big enough to offer both privacy and variety, this is paradise on earth. By Huma Baig 22

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The sparkling white sandbank, at one end, tapers into the ‘highlighter’ green and aquamarine water of the Indian Ocean.

A large variety of villa options is available, such as water villas, jacuzzi villas and garden villas. All of which offer light, spacious, airy rooms with gigantic beds, private sun loungers and amazing showers.

The sparkling white sandbank, at one end, tapers into the ‘highlighter’ green and aquamarine water of the Indian Ocean.

As the sun melts into the horizon, the very essence of picture perfect is formed. The meditative crash of each gentle wave weaves a happy place deep inside the soul, lasting long after your tan fades.

The mesmerising marine life can be explored by taking a dive in the crystal-clear waters. Stunning coral reefs, tropical fish and reef shark go about their day as onlookers watch in awe. A variety of water sports is available, as well as stimulating sensory treats in the Kuramathi spa, which is

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situated in front of a stunning ocean backdrop. While buggies provide transport around the island, taking a walk promises new secret spots ripe for exploration. Even when you are not following an itinerary, it is easy to be adventurous on Kuramathi as it promises that no two days will be the same.

This paradise island offers a plethora of diverse options for dining, from buffet breakfasts, to bars, to a la Carte restaurants.

Cuisines range from Thai to Indian and of course their own signature seafood. Refreshing mocktails on cosy sofas placed on the white sand within the frame of palm trees, allow the mind to relax, homemade mid-afternoon ice cream sundaes tantalise taste buds, whilst water features in restaurants create a lively ambience. All of this and the live cooking of steaks creating a fun atmosphere - this paradise island offers something for everyone.

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A peaceful stay in the heart of Sri Lanka Kandalama is situated in the heart of Sri Lanka in an area named Dambulla and is home to a renowned, luxury, vegan-friendly hotel. By Huma Baig

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The Golden Temple of Dambulla - which towers the surrounding area at 160 metres high

As a magnificent piece of architecture, Heritance Kandalama blends impeccably with its enchanting, natural mountainside.

The hotel rises seven floors, and the one kilometre long airy corridor is an open window where monkeys can be seen swinging through the dense green trees of Kaludiya Pokuna forest, colourful birds floating around the area, as well as other wild animals noisily going about their lives.

The hotel offers serenity alongside convenient access to some of the other wonders of central Sri Lanka. The Sigiriya Rock, also known as the Lion Rock, is a historical monument within Dambulla: Its tip has served as grounds for the palace of a historical king, and its caves have served as the homes of Buddhist monks. The monastery is now preserved under Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle project and offers visitors mesmerising views from the top of a 200-metre climb.

The Golden Temple of Dambulla - which towers the surrounding area at 160 metres high - is also preserved under the same governmental project and is home to 153 statues of Buddah, along with many statues of previous Sri Lankan kings, gods and goddesses.

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The Minneriya National Park is also within this vicinity and is home to hundreds of different species of birds, mammals and reptiles, but it is most famous for its inhabitance of hundreds of playful wild elephants. The central location of Heritance Kandalama means these adventures of Sri Lanka are only a short drive away.

Staff at the hotel are polite, attentive and work tirelessly to ensure that you have a pleasant stay. Evening entertainment, spa facilities and a variety of rooms mean that there is something for everyone. Live cooking and a diverse range of food of local and international cuisines is available at the on-site breakfast and dinner buffet restaurant. This hotel boasts several swimming pools, but it is the infinity pool that provides the special gift of the magical view of the shimmering Kandalama Lake on a backdrop of stone temples and rock fortresses.

As a nature lover’s heaven and as an adventure lover’s perfect reality, Kandalama has heaps to offer!

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Empowering women to empower a nation

By Rikkie Knight

Islam came down in order to liberate women, men were ordered to cease the practice of killing their daughters, a limitation was put on the number of wives a man was allowed to have and woman were given rights to inheritance. Modesty was for her protection and her status as a mother was raised towards a gateway leading to Jannah (Paradise): The beauty of which many of us cannot comprehend. All of this, yet we see very little action to uphold the liberation of our women today.

More so the advice that has been given has been manipulated to cause her stagnation.

Love has often been replaced with control, and that control has been justified as Love. Stroking the male ego has become praiseworthy, an act of a dutiful wife, alongside a detachment from self aspiration.

After speaking with many women who reiterated the same woes, I was stuck with the question why? Why was this mentality so common? Why were so many women being penalised and fed with a misinterpretation of their faith?

Maybe it was due to a lack of understanding, which was rarely tackled and which benefited a lot of the men in our community patriarchy. Maybe it was due to the way we have been raised and the ideas that have been instilled in us about our roles in relationships and society. Whatever the reason I began to realise that deep down a lot of men see the empowerment of women as a threat to their manhood.

You see, generally speaking, the man is the provider: He is supposed to offer support and protection: He is supposed to www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

be the leader. So, the moment he sees that his wife can support herself, or has been given the opportunity to widen her prospects: he begins to feel that his role could be replaced.

The whole idea is a complete misconception. To empower women is to empower a nation. The woman raises and cultivates the next generation, so if the woman is broken it will soon be reflected in society. Respect and love is achieved through support and the efforts given to empower one another. Surely one of man’s tasks is to be mindful of his privileges and ensure that he acts justly with what Allah has given him responsibility over. The growth of your spouse, sister or daughter should be admired, encouraged and valued.

This should be the case even when the growth doesn’t look as you expected it to. Another factor that plays a role in stagnating female progress is fear; fear that if given enough choice or freedom the female will lose herself. The truth is that enforcing your wants onto another human being which causes restrictions, is likely to make those fears a reality, especially when it comes to marriage; it is important to remember that your spouse is not your child.

Many times we hear of the qualities, role and responsibilities of a righteous wife, in depth. We’ve been raised upon these narratives, educated from a young age, to the point it is embedded in our being. This guidance is not for us to forget but it is now important that woman should also feel fulfilment.

It is essential for true harmony within the household, and for constructive growth in our community.

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Advertorial feature

Going out for a drink Going out for a drink; celebrating business and personal events with a glass of wine is an integral part of Western culture.

Raising a glass of fruit juice or water is just not the same. This makes it is all too easy for Muslims, reverts, elderly, mums2be and other categories of non-drinkers to feel left out.

It is a familiar situation for London banker Azhar Paul and wife Tara, as both are practicing Muslims. Azhar comments, “I often see Muslim graduates struggling to negotiate a world where drinking fine wines and champagne is the norm. Just watch cricketers Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid: Every time England is celebrating a win, they are desperately trying to avoid being sprayed with alcohol and remove themselves from key team photos due to this.”

Azhar and Tara are also aware that there are some health advantages to drinking wine, especially red wine, even when it is a non-alcoholic variety. Research has shown that red wine can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attacks, protect against diseases like diabetes and protect against some types of cancer, such as prostate cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer.

Recognising a business opportunity, they began to search for the perfect non-alcoholic fine wine which could be used for any occasion, whether it is a social drink, a party or a celebration. Such a wine would be acceptable to anyone who cannot drink alcohol but wants something more sophisticated to drink than fruit juice.

Domaines Pierre Chavin (DPC) provided the solution.

Based in Beziers, Southern France; DPC is a long established wine producer which produces halal-certified and halalaudited wine. Taste tests involving chefs, wine connoisseurs and drinking friends resulted in the unanimous agreement that the wines were superb. What makes these wines so special is the fact that the taste remains unchanged despite the fact that all the alcoholic content has been removed using centrifugal force and nitrogen gas. www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

Setting up a new business trading as Azanti Non-Alcoholic Wines, Azhar is a UK distributor for DPC. On offer is the DPC Pierre Zero range of Merlot, Rose and Chardonnay wines, together with their popular sparkling Perle De Chavin range, and a ‘champagne’ wine called ‘Gold Arabesque’ which contains 24 carat gold ‘food’ flakes. These are high quality French wines, well presented, produced by experts in the field and that is apparent in the taste.”

The supplier DMC has worked with Azanti over the last 18 months to ensure they are recognised as both a halal and vegan wine. Those who have tried the wine often provide the Azanti teams with unprompted rave reviews, with those who like cooking having enjoyed making new recipes whilst enjoying the experience of cooking with wines.

“Finally, in the ever changing, fast and dynamic wedding industry, we believe our range of premium drinks will become a new popular option“, says Azhar.

All the wines are certified 100% halal, have gone through an independent audit completed by Halal Consulting and the process has been assessed by London’s Regent’s Park Mosque, confirming that they can be consumed by Muslims. Since they contain no alcohol, these wines are also fit for consumption by teenagers, vegans, expectant mothers and motorists.

Reactions have been extremely positive. Azanti supply numerous halal and non-halal fine dining restaurants, wholesalers, bars and shisha lounges. The number of individual online purchases is increasing, seeing peak sales during the summer Go Sober October and dry January. Exports too are growing in number for DPC. DPC export to 35+ countries worldwide, including Dubai. Come and meet the Azanti team at the ‘Asian Wedding Show’ in London Olympia on 10 - 11 Nov 2018. Azanti is based in Coulsdon, Surrey and online at www.azanti.co.uk.

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There is no doubt that this gives it a posh image, which is also reflected in its expensive prices.

Monaco travelogue A sun-soaker’s paradise by Rabi’ah M Monaco. If you are the type who enjoys the sun and sea combination highlighted with palm trees, enhanced with a magnificent mountain backdrop, then Monaco is the place to visit, especially during the summer time. This was my first visit to Monaco and at first glance the lush greenery and scenic views reminded me of the beautiful capital of Pakistan, Islamabad, their being a resemblance in its stark landscape. For those who have never heard of Monaco, it is officially known as the Principality of Monaco, which is a sovereign state, it is also a small kingdom, which is a microstate, situated on the French Riviera. France is a neighbour, bordering three sides, and the Mediterranean Sea borders the other side.

I had the opportunity to explore two of the major cities of Monaco: Monte Carlo, followed by Nice, my second city stop and the lesser explored. Popularly known for its luxurious hotels, sea views, casinos and gardens, Monte Carlo, for many, may be an ideal place to unwind, enjoying the sun-crispy weather; which certainly helps when exploring this small city.

As there were a lot of places to visit, I decided to book myself a hop on, hop off sightseeing tour for the day, which allowed me to explore the tourist attractions of Monte Carlo.

The entire tour lasted for an hour consisting of about 12 stops, covering: Jardin Exotique, Jardin Japonais, the Bateau Bus, Grimaldi, Place du Palais, Princess Stephanie, Statue Louis II, Villa Sauber and Musee Oceanographique, to name but a few. One should wear comfortable shoes to explore the city. You will stumble across most of the international hotel chains on this trip; The Fairmont Hotel and The Intercontinental Hotel are just two of many. For those

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seeking to experience different cuisines, Monte Carlo offers a limited range of halal food, which means you need to explore further, with the help of Google of course. There are, however, interesting choices available; you will find more diverse restaurants, whether it is the Ciprani Restaurant (Italian), Maya-Jah restaurant (Indian) or the Maya-Bay (Thai). Do not forget that there are also Starbucks and McDonalds at your disposal, situated at the Boulevard Louis II, facing a breathtaking view, not far from the Nikkei Beach or The Fairmont Hotel.

On the other hand, Nice reminded me more of Central London, where everything is very mainstream and is full of cafes and restaurants. The best way to travel from Monte Carlo to Nice is by train, which takes 30 minutes to 40 minutes.

It would not be wrong to say that Monaco, even though it may not be a frequently explored country, is iconic due to its architecture, picturesque views and the fact that it is a compact country. There is no doubt that this gives it a posh image, which is also reflected in its expensive prices. It does not, however, mean that if someone wishes to explore Monaco for a two-day trip on a tight budget that they cannot visit Monaco. I would totally recommend Monte Carlo and Nice.

One piece of advice, you will certainly need a lot of help from Google, if only for translating the words from English to French. You should also note that there is no Uber around Nice or Monte Carlo; even though you can pre-book an Uber to pick you up from the airport at Nice International, when it comes to going around the country, you would need either to use buses or take cabs.

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Muslim in the city

Date nights – a nuisance or saving grace? By NH If you are anything like me - a lady who juggles her time between working, house chores and mummy and wifey duties - then you will understand the importance of date nights… or should I say the significance of prioritising romantic outings.

How often do you set time aside for the person who was once the centre of your world – your lover? Okay, so in the ideal world the honeymoon period would never be over and, even though Disney fairy tale endings make us view life through rose tinted glasses, there is just not enough hours in a day to show your other half the love you once did: Or is the ‘not enough hours in the day’ just a lame excuse we all tend to use?

I can’t be the only one guilty of this crime. As women we juggle so much and try to squeeze in last minute chores that in our minds will take ten minutes, but actually can take much longer – because on top of those little household tasks you are

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also multitasking with several other things, right?

So in my home, one date night equals no talk about the usual stresses of life, and relaxing rather than running around like what can only be described as a hamster on a wheel! We spend an evening reminiscing about the way that we once were; our hopes, dreams and romantic desires. It is hard to switch off from your everyday routine, so can this one evening a month help you get back on track with your other half and help you to appreciate one another again?

It has got me thinking - is it a deal breaker to not set aside a monthly rendezvous with your other half? Should we be organizing more than one date night a month? How often should we be taking time out to spend with our significant other half?

By NH

How do you pack a perfect picnic?

I’ve chosen some favourite foods that will still taste good (and look delicious) when you arrive at your picnic spot. By Lara Skingsley Sandwiches

Slice and butter bread before you leave, and prepare and pack fillings separately.

Making sandwiches on location avoids soggy bread and means you can keep chilled items together. Use sliced sourdough, crusty bread or wraps.

Antipasti

Take olives, sundried tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, sliced meats and char grilled artichokes. Don’t forget toothpicks for easy eating.

Dips

Hummus is great with sticks of cucumber, celery and carrot. Serve salsa, guacamole and sour cream with tortilla chips.

Pastry & fritters

A fairly solid pastry or vegetable fritter is a good picnic choice. Try pesto swirls, cheese twists and cheese and onion mini rolls. Sweet corn fritters,

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samosas and onion bhajis travel brilliantly and taste delicious.

Salad

Avoid leafy salads and choose something with a bit more bite. Amazing ingredients include cucumber, carrots, edamame beans, sugarsnap peas, apples and whole grains. Take any dressing in a separate, small bottle. Greek salad is great, as are asian style seaweed salads.

Pasta

Simple to prepare: cook and mix with your favourite pasta sauce.

Sushi

The best styles of sushi to take are Maki rolls, California rolls and Inari. Avoid hand rolls and Nigiri sushi. Sushi travels so well, and is even better if you remember to take a little bottle of soy and a tub of pickled ginger.

Something sweet:

Fruit is handily packaged in its own skin, and most types travel well. Pick apples, grapes, pears, nectarines, oranges.

Avoid soft fruit like raspberries and blueberries. Try taking a whole melon and a suitable knife - and don’t forget the serviettes!

Excellent baked choices are lemon or ginger loaves, American-style cookies and granola slices. Tray bakes are amazing - I like to pack brownies, millionaires’ shortbread and rocky road slices.

Finally, what to drink?

I like to choose something slightly sweet, light and refreshing; elderflower cordial, ice tea, or fresh lemonade.

Avoid taking fizzy drinks, unless you plan to be very gentle when carrying your picnic!

Summer Sipping

By Lara Skingsley

Ice Tea

Sweetened black or green tea flavoured with lemon, or sometimes peach. For something a little different, try iced herb or fruit teas. Iced peppermint is really refreshing.

Iced Coffee

Coffee purists might not encourage you to pour espresso over ice, but frappes are delicious! Iced lattes are a smooth choice, as is sweet Vietnamese style coffee with condensed milk.

Bubble Tea

Like iced tea but sweeter and fruitier, this tea is served with fruit juice balls, chewy tapioca pearls or coconut jelly.

Kombucha

A fermented tea based drink with a zingy, sour kick.

Full of beneficial bacteria, this drink is available in a range of sweetness levels.

Mocktails

Traditional cocktail recipes without any alcohol, most restaurants now offer these intensely flavoured drinks.

Smoothies

Fresh and full of fruit (and sometimes vegetables too), these drinks are tasty and also contain some fibre.

Cordials

These syrups extract the maximum flavour from plant material and come in a huge range of flavours.

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Parading Arabian fashion at the London Fashion Week “The Stories from Arabia sparkled as a leading fashion event, proudly associating itself with the London Fashion Week features emerging and established fashion designers from the world of Arabia.” By Rabi’ah. M When the Stories from Arabia event took place during the London Fashion Week during September 2018 at one of London’s finest venues, The Institute of Directors; not only did it open doors to an international audience but showcased a pool of creative and talented Arab fashion designers.

Such an event featured the crème da le crème of the Arab fashion world. Some of the participating names included: Abeer Couture (Kuwait), Farfalla (Egypt) Nadia Lakkioui (Morroco), Atelier Zuhra (UAE/Oman), SWAF Design (Saudi Arabia) 1MOR (Kuwait) and others. An array of vibrant, attention-grabbing, and a beautiful plethora of outfits were showcased. For the onlooker it was no less than your usual London Fashion Week event; high standards were maintained with a houseful. For Abeer Couture, participating in such an event was a dream come true. Similarly, for Rayan Al Sulaimani of Atelier Zuhra, it was vital to be a part of this new concept, as she points out: “The Stories from Arabia is one of the biggest platforms that features elite fashion designers from Arabia. In terms of attraction, I felt it would give me an opportunity to showcase my brand with the rest of the world.”

With the Stories from Arabia as a signature associated as the brainchild of Jalila El Mastouki, a London based entrepreneur, she aims to emphasise and empower the spectacular work of designers from the world of Arabia by focusing on bespoke and hand-made editions which re-work on the old designs and incorporating them into contemporary pieces. What about her expectations? Jalila points: “My expectations were met since I received great feedback from the British fashion industry. I am content with the quality and level of feedback received, especially when I was working on the Stories from Morroco when people have just learned about the Moroccan caftan.”

The collection featured by Abeer Couture was inspired by Arab women, as she explains “My collection was inspired by the Arabian woman that featured a combination of black, grey and silver which are some of the popular most colours by women.” On the other hand, for Al Sulaimani, her collection was rather fairy-tale like “The Swan Collection” which was inspired by the Swan princess of the art of mosaic. Describing her collection, Al Sulaimani says: “I wanted to use classic sheer elegance for the silhouettes and shapes where she attempted to design designs that enhance and illuminate the femininity of a woman.” www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

For Alia Al Swaf of SWAF Design, participating in the Stories from Arabia was an excellent experience, as she describes: “I am happy and enthusiastic since I was able to shift my ideas, ambition, and power and prove them outside Saudi Arabia. I noticed the positive response from people who showed their liking towards my collection that has boosted my morale further.”

The way the Stories from Arabia has been organized and patronized the outstanding work of the Arab fashion designers is an excellent initiative to revive the old traditions through such an excellent platform. Not only is it from a fashion perspective a motivating element for those participating, but creating an independent identity of Arab designers as a whole.

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HAIR BY ILMAAS When did you realise your passion for hair?

I have been in the hair profession industry for twelve years as a self-taught hairstylist.

From a young age my eldest sister always made sure I was on trend with the latest hairstyles. I then started to experiment with various products and styles for myself, which then lead to my love of hair and my future goal to become a published Hairstylist / Hairdresser/ Barber.

How did you get started?

At the age of eleven I started styling the hair of my family and friends. I taught myself how to braid and then educated myself online on how to curl/straighten hair. Over the years I researched further and practised both male and female styles, I then decided that I wanted to learn how to cut hair. When I was thirteen I would visit hairdressers and sit there observing every step that they took, from start to finish. Then I would go home and practice my cutting skills on a mannequin which I had bought myself with my pocket money.

I would cut and blend my own hair in high school, perfecting my skill by doing my own hair, then family members and friends. After leaving high school I decided to

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do a fast-track course in hairdressing/barbering; feeling that I already had the skill but wanting to further educate myself.

My first ever job was at a unisex hair salon, over time I learnt how to work on all hair types and at the age of nineteen I had my first bridal hair client. I was so excited, as this is something I had always looked forward to, hair had become my way to express my creativity, with my families support from a young age. Today I have my own brand and I am known as one of the leading hairstylists in the industry who caters for both male and female clientele, including brides and grooms

What do you enjoy about styling?

Being a hair stylist, it is more than just about hair. It is about making personal connections with your clients, helping them through life’s trials and celebrating life’s achievements. It’s about helping the ladies and gents who sit in your chair to find their beauty, inside and out, it can also be both rewarding and inspiring. Not only can you help others to achieve the looks that they want, but you’ll also be able to help yourself with your own personal career goals, working in a position that you absolutely love. It’s an industry that helps you to grow as a person, as an artist; along with some blood, sweat and tears

Did your life change after you became a hair stylist?

My life did change, from twelve years ago when I began my journey, to today, being director of my own unisex salon. I learnt a lot along the way, picking up techniques and using my own initiative to grow as a stylist developing my own brand and my own style. I learnt a lot along the way, as I practised a lot, which then lead me to building up my own clientele over the years, which then helped me get into the fashion industry I am proud of myself, where I have reached so far in my career and what I have achieved so far over the years. I have had my work published in leading Asian magazines and newspapers regularly, both nationally and internationally, as well as taking part in leading fashion industry shows and two of the leading shows in the UK: ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW & PAKISTAN FASHION WEEK. These were broadcast on television and publicised in magazines such a Elle and British vogue magazine. I also have had the opportunity to work with celebrities as well as national and international super models and actors, such as Nimrah Khan, Annie Khlalid, Jasmin Walia, Chloe Khan, and have also won multiple awards; a massive achievement for myself.

What is your number one beauty tip/hair care tip?

To oil the hair: for both male and female clients.

A conditioner might work wonders for your hair but oil supplies it with certain minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids that don't just strengthen your roots but also boost the overall health of your hair.

Mix coconut oil, almond oil, castor oil, all in equal amounts in a plastic tube that can be heated; the best time to apply is overnight - this protects your hair from sun damage, colour damage and dandruff, as well as removing sebum build-up from hair follicles, thus accelerating hair growth. www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

What are the trendiest styles out there today?

Bridal

Every bride wants to stand out, yet have a style that expresses her personality and one that compliments the whole finished look from her makeup to the bridal dress CURLS - long vintage curls to be styled to one or both sides, whatever suits or is preferred by the client.

UP-DOS - medium height, enough for the veil or duppata to sit accordingly with textured messy has been very demanding look this year also low faux bobs detailed with variations of curls, braids and twists finished with accessories or a floral piece.

BRAIDS AND PLAITS – with the long hair trend, plaits/ curly plaits are combined with a loosely braided fringe finished with embedded flowers, pearls or fancy pins

Men’s Hair

- 50s slick back - Volumised side part - Revived pompadours - Redefined fringes - Textured curls /quiff - Man bob

Where to find us...

HAIR BY ILMAAS 72A Whitworth Rd, Rochdale Lancashire OL12 0EZ

Facebook hairbyilmaas Instagram hairbyilmaas Youtube hairbyilmaas Snapchat hairbyilmaas

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Where to Eat Seafood

By Lara Skingsley

What is sustainable seafood? Put simply, it means that the food on your plate has been managed and caught responsibly. This means you won’t be eating endangered species, and will be supporting people and fisheries that work with the future in mind. This ensures we can enjoy seafood for generations to come and in doing so we can improve the health of our oceans.

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It’s important to support sustainable options at the supermarket and when dining out.

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It’s important to support sustainable options at the supermarket and when dining out. To do this all you need is a little basic knowledge or an app like the Good Fish Guide to remember it all for you!

Buying your own food is easy; check your shopping list doesn’t include any seafood on the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) Red List. Look out for Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), Aquaculture Stewardship and Freedom Food labels.

Eating out can be a bit trickier, as menus might not tell you exactly what fish goes into their fish pie. And once you find out what the fish is, how do you know if it’s sustainable? Well, there are some safe options if the restaurant can’t tell you themselves.

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This ensures we can enjoy seafood for generations to come....

Links: Good Fish Guide www.mcsuk.org/goodfishguide

Prawns: Choose small prawns; large prawns are likely to be farmed, and if your restaurant can’t confirm whether or not they are organic, it’s best to give them a miss.

MCS Red List www.mcsuk.org

Salmon: Choose farmed, not wild, unless the restaurant can confirm it has been caught from a river with a healthy salmon population.

Marine Stewardship Council www.msc.org/

Cod and Haddock: North Sea fisheries have recently increased to healthy levels, with the best options being MSC certified.

Freedom Food www.berspcaassured.org.uk/

With all of these things in mind, I’ve put together a list of the best places to eat sustainable seafood across the UK. J Sheeky Oyster Bar, London Located in the West End, the Oyster Bar is passionate about sustainable seafood. They commit to not serving anything on the MCS Red List, and support small UK fisheries. With a menu including Devon crab and Atlantic prawns alongside light seafood dishes, you can have a taste of the sea in the heart of London.

Rockfish, South Coast This seafood restaurant has made its home in a variety of locations including Plymouth, Torquay and Dartmouth. One of the top rated restaurants of Fish2Fork, they are proud to offer the freshest, most sustainable fish on the planet. There’s a great selection of dishes on offer; try Torbay calamari; Leigh-on-Sea cockles; choose a main from the ‘local fish’ menu.

www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

Poco Cafe Bar, Bristol This restaurant changes its menu seasonally, showcasing the best locally grown and sourced produce.

As well as coming highly recommend by Fish2Fork, Poco won an award for ‘Best Casual Dining Restaurant’ in 2017. An excitingly varied menu always includes seafood; right now you can enjoy Dorset rock oysters, Pollack roe taramasalata and Highland mussels.

Captain’s Galley, Scotland Ranked in the top 10 of the world’s most sustainable food restaurants, they have also picked up numerous awards each year and come highly recommended. They focus on serving truly seasonal and creative seafood dishes, which means that the menu will never be the same from one visit to the next! Currently on the menu are chargrilled scallops, blackened saithe and Gravadlax.

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Best of British Fruit

By Lara Skingsley

Eating the freshest, tastiest fruit and veg is easy if you choose produce grown in the UK. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy a few seasonal treasures this late summer and early autumn.

Hedgerows full of blackberries can be made into tarts, pies and cordials - or just eat them by the handful. Paired with apples, they make the perfect crumble.

Plums are ripening in abundance, but don’t forget to look out for greengages.

This smaller, sweeter version of a plum are also delicately perfumed.

Baked with cheese sauce, freshly harvested cauliflowers become classic comfort food. Stir frying makes the most of the fresh texture, and lightly battering and deep-frying (think tempura) makes it irresistible. Try dipping these in Chinese Bang-Bang sauce.

Fresh carrots are incredibly versatile use them raw in salads, to add crunch to stir fries, or roast them and blend into a soup for cool early-autumn days.

Bubble Tea

By Lara Skingsley

The first thing you need to know about bubble tea is that it’s delicious. But what is it?

Originating from Taiwan, the drink has gained popularity in the UK over recent years.

It’s a sweet tea-based drink served with chewy tapioca pearls, or, more popularly in the UK, fruit pearls.

Black or green tea is mixed with a fruit or milk base and shaken. This creates thousands of tiny bubbles, which gives bubble tea its name. Bubble tea is served hot or cold, with your choice of pearls.

Fruit pearls are little spheres of fruit juice with a thin, jellylike skin. Created using seaweed extract, these delicious bubbles pop in your mouth.

Facebook link for my local bubble tea place: https://www.facebook.com/bubbleandpho

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Black or green tea is mixed with a fruit or milk base and shaken.

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The Ambassador of Middle Eastern Food

For Tony Kitous cooking is more than a food business, it is a passion which is profoundly etched in his mind that takes him back to his childhood, when he observed his mother cooking the best food for him. It is from such delightful memories that he gained the confidence and passion to become one of the most renowned chefs and entrepreneurs in town. He talks about his latest cookery book: “Feasts from the Middle East”, and how he is keen to promote his Middle Eastern heritage and food to the world. Words: Rabi’ah. M As you walk down the streets of Central London or perhaps end up at the Westfield Mall, or London Gatwick and Heathrow airports, you are going to stumble across some of the restaurants owned by Tony Kitous, who blends the Algerian and Lebanese cultures perfectly. He has worked very hard to make his mark in Middle Eastern gastronomy, both in the U.K and internationally. Some of his famous restaurants include: Levant, Comptoir Libanais, Kenza, Shawa and Yalla Yalla. A true explorer from a very young age, he was encouraged to set up his own chain of restaurants as they kept doing well in such a competitive environment as London. Having written two other cookbooks, “Comptoir Libanais” and “Comptoir Libanais Express”, Tony has launched his third book “Feasts from the Middle East”.

When you ask him what inspired him to write his third cookbook he explains: “The inspiration was from my childhood and the food that my mum prepared every day for my siblings and me. I also wanted to include the amazing recipes from my travels around the Middle East and Africa. I want to make Lebanese and Middle Eastern food as popular as Italian food.” Most of the recipes featured in this book are the ones that his mother cooked, the sardine recipe for example, which happens to be his absolute favourite. He has also included some recipes from his mother’s friend. The uniqueness of this book is pretty much embedded in it being portrayed as a “celebration of the Middle Eastern food and the generous culture”. In a way Tony puts his heart and soul into introducing the tastes and flavours of the Middle East into homes in the U.K, simultaneously helping them to understand how easy and delicious such food is. His dedication towards food stuns one, as he points out: “I love food and enjoy eating and preparing it, as such I do not have a particular style, every time I prepare something I ensure that it is simple and healthy.” He believes that working hard and determination are the key elements in operating a successful restaurant and emphasises, “You have to love what you do”. Even though there are a variety of signature dishes, Tony enjoys cooking, however it is his aubergine and pomegranate salad, which remains the top-most favourite since it is fresh and delicious. One would not have to try too hard to guess who his favourite chef is, it is obvious, his mother. He explains his admiration for his mother developed as he watched her

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create all kinds of mouth-watering dishes: “She would cook everyday for me and my six siblings and always manage to prepare the most amazing flavoursome dishes.

Summing up, his cookbook in four words or phrases, Tony wisely chooses: “fresh, healthy, easy to make and perfect for everyday cooking”. With such a positive spirit and endless dedication to exploring and presenting healthy and simple dishes from the Middle East and North African region, Tony is indeed the true purveyor and ambassador of Middle Eastern food.

The book is available in all major book stores all over the UK, on Amazon.com and in all the Comptoir Libanais restaurants

www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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In conversation with Zarqa Hamid We caught up with the lovely regular Host on Islam Channel, Zarqa Hamid who host’s in both English and Urdu and who has hosted many live shows and popular live cooking exhibitions.

What made you start cooking?

Her ability to cook Middle Eastern, North African and Pakistani cuisine with the strong influence of her international fine taste, shines through with her passion for cooking.

When did you realise that you were good at making ingredients work well together?

Her love for travel and the culinary have brought her fame internationally.

A TV personality with an elegant sense of humour and the ability to captivate an audience, cooking her many signature dishes from across the world.

You are all in for a treat! Lets find out more about Zarqa Hamid.

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It’s an inherited trait; I come from a family who have a great tradition of cooking and a love for eating international cuisine.

This happened when I first entered the kitchen, which was some time ago. I guess my travel experiences exposed me to great foods of the world and I wanted to integrate that with Zarqa Kitchen.

What is your favourite dish to make?

This is like asking a mother to choose a favourite child, it all depends on the occasion, the company and the diners, then one cooks according to that situation considering what would make the best dish. No dish is the best dish for every occasion.

What is your favourite Summer/ Autumn drink?

Too many to list: Naturally warm drinks for winter; qawaaa, mint tea, pink tea; and in the summer Zarqa special smoothies, including banana, mango and .mint monitor.

What is your favourite snack food?

Don’t snack, have a proper meal. Love food, love life. Golgappa chaat.

Where is your favourite place to travel to in the UK and why?

Cambridge, there is good weather most the year within the UK, and it is full of history with beautiful countryside fairly close to busy London: Great escape.

Harri Chicken Malai Boti

Ingredients • 1kg bonless chicken cut into 1inch pieces.

• 1tsp meat tenderizer • 1tbsp garlic ginger paste • 1/2 lemon juice • 1/4 cup yoghurt • 3 tbsp fresh cream • 2 spring onions • A handful of fresh coriander • 4 green chillies • White pepper 1/2tsp • Black pepper 1/2tsp • 1tsp garam masala • 1tsp chaat masala • Salt to taste • Mix all the above ingredients into a blender. Once blended, pour the mix over the chicken pieces.

Marinate over night.

Add the chicken pieces to metal Skewers to Bbq or you can shallow fry the chicken pieces in a frying pan until the pieces of chicken are cooked thoroughly.

Once cooked, pour a little cream on top of each golden brown chicken piece and serve on a platter with a Green leafy salad.

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Mango Pudding • • • • •

6 tbsp white rice 2 large mangoes/pulp 6 cups full cream milk 1/2cup sugar Pistachios handful sliced for decoration.

Soak the rice for an hour then grind with a little water to form a smooth paste.

Boil the milk and stir in the rice paste.

Keep stirring and add sugar to taste.

Add the mango pulp to the mix and keep stirring until it looks thicker like custard.

Serve cold & decorate with diced mangoes and sliced pistachios.

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Wellness News: Tahira Khan discovers the concept of ancient Mayan Meditation The people from Mexico’s ancient civilization were masters of mindfulness, constantly observing their surroundings and the stars, studying the rhythm and flow of the Universe in order to understand the meaning of life.

Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing ones awareness on the present moment. Mayan Mindfulness treatments begin with a guided breathing and visualisation session to revitalise and promote wellbeing, connecting the mind and spirit with the body for true holistic wellbeing.

Located within the luxurious Nizuc Resort and Spa and built on an area once sacred to the ancient Mayans, this emotional holistic journey is being introduced and includes a number of treatments such as a Mindful Massage and a Mindful Facial, a Couple’s Mindful Journey, as well as a three-day Be Mindful programme that includes a signature Thermal Experience, mindful treatments, yoga or meditation, and juicing.

Every treatment begins with the Nizuc Thermal Experience, a guided hydrotherapy circuit, which includes an aromatic steam room, invigorating showers, a sauna, an ice fountain with cool mist shower, a vitality pool with hydro-massage, a cold plunge pool, a solarium and thermic loungers where guests can relax and enjoy a scalp massage with a nourishing hair mask.

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Mindful Massage – 80 minutes Designed to unwind the mind and instill a sense of positivity, this deeply relaxing and enlightening experience begins with mindfulness. A therapist guides guests through a deep breathing and calming visualisation session, before moving onto a full body massage giving special attention to the metamorphic zones on the feet for rebalance. The treatment finishes with a re-energising scalp massage using warm Rose Quartz crystals.

Mindful Facial – 80 minutes This holistic personalised facial, aims to soothe, nurture and revitalise the skin and the spirit. The therapist renews energy by guiding guests through a breathing and visualisation technique, before giving a facial massage using warmed poultices to sculpt and tone the facial contours, whilst nourishing and replenishing the skin. The treatment finishes with a choice of a soothing scalp massage or hand and arm massage.

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Couple’s Mindful Journey – 160 minutes A truly bonding experience for couples looking to extend their spiritual connection and have a meaningful moment together. The therapy includes a couples guided breathing and visualisation, and a deeply relaxing Mindful Massage followed by the nourishing Mindful Facial, concluding with a Healthy Spa Lunch.

The Be Mindful Programme – three days NIZUC’s Be Mindful programme promotes a healthy lifestyle through the balance of exercise, relaxation and healthy eating.

Day One • • •

NIZUC Thermal Experience Mindful Massage 80 minutes Freshly pressed juice

Day Two • • •

NIZUC Thermal Experience Mindful Facial 80 minutes Freshly pressed juice

Day Three • •

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NIZUC Thermal Experience Yoga Class or Meditation 60 minutes

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Promoting enlightenment through her art

“For Sarah Sheikh, a Pakistani artist from the U.K, art is in the form of a celebration of life, building a connection between her and the Creator of this world; she symbolizes the beauty of enlightenment through her stunning art pieces at her recent exhibition in London.”

Words: Rabi’ah. M When you talk to Sarah Sheikh, a Pakistani artist, about her artwork, she expresses a sense of passion and vigour, and how art plays a vital role in her life.

Her recent art exhibition entitled “The Journey of Enlightenment” is an exhibition of contemporary art, which is a celebration of life, seeking joy in every aspect of life.

The exhibition was ongoing during the month of August at the Norman Plastow Gallery in Wimbledon. This exhibition is an extension of her master’s dissertation in the arts here in the U.K. Her inspiration stems from her father who is an architect by profession. Then there is one of the strangest of places and situations where she gains influence, Sarah likes to observe cities from a distance; as she explains: “The

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moment when the plane is up on top of a city that glows, it fascinates me a lot.

There can be a time of the day or an angle that I am at, that tends to linger on and it gets translated in the form of a painting.”

So how does she define herself and as an artist?

“I am an abstract expressionist and I use cubism in my art style, since it makes everything very three dimensional, which is perhaps my favourite style.”

There is no single artist Sarah prefers; instead she chooses to keep an open canvas when it comes to learning. She points out her learning process: “I learn a lot from all the artists, the list is exhaustive.

I believe that within every artist there is a hidden

I am an abstract expressionist and I use cubism in my art style...

philosopher and a sensitive individual which makes one admire each of them as an artist.” Whilst talking about her artwork, she emphasizes the importance of the highest peaks of the building for sketching drafts.

The moment the plane reaches a city, the view below reminds her of jewels, emeralds, rubies and gold, which has inspired some of her work. Perhaps it is the art therapy that helps her to rejoice , to appreciate life and to feel a spiritual connection to the things she sees around her.

For example, The City of Dreams is a masterpiece where the light shed by the moon over the entire city expresses its radiance and inspiration. The little buildings and the uniquely designed buildings remind me of Burj Khalifa in London, immersing the viewer into the painting itself. www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

I was quite fascinated to see her expression of enlightenment, articulation exceptionally supported by the various concepts of art that compel one to decipher the meanings of each art piece. The overall outcome: Sarah explained that she was delighted with the testimonials left for her by visitors. It is encouraging when people appreciate art, and especially Pakistani artists who are working very hard to be recognized in the competitive field of art in the U.K. Viewing her work is an interesting activity, since each piece is a narrative of emotions, hopes, aspirations and the endless dreams that hold significance for her. The upcoming lineup of events in Sarah’s diary includes venues in the U.A.E and Turkey.

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Ever wondered what it is like to pilot a plane?

By Angela Youngman

What about digitally designing your own aircraft? Then head for RAF Hendon on the outskirts of London for an incredible interactive day out, taking you through the entire history of flight.

For over a hundred years, this site has been involved in the story of aircraft development. Some of the first planes were constructed in the long brick buildings that now border part of the site, and if you look closely remnants of camouflage paint can be seen, bearing witness to the dark days of World War II. This is more than just a collection of historic aircraft, it is a living, breathing museum, which brings the experience of belonging in the RAF across the years vividly alive.

The completion of a multi-million pound redevelopment programme has meant that a visit to RAF Hendon is guaranteed to provide something for everyone, whether you are an aviation enthusiast or merely seeking somewhere for a family day out.

From the moment you start your visit, you are pulled into the RAF story. A wall of hats greets you, containing every type of hat ever worn by RAF personnel, whilst the unique model of a Typhoon jet incorporates symbols of every trade involved in preparing for just one flight. This includes spanners, computers and even saucepans. Trying to identify every object becomes a fascinating task, as they are hidden all over the model!

You can try on uniforms, crack codes and gather intelligence to complete an RAF mission or digitally design an aircraft and put it through its paces on a test flight.

Elsewhere you can try guiding a massive Hercules aircraft to a Drop Zone, use a deck of cards to play out the Space Race and try out a state-of-the-art Gnat flight simulator.

You can even sit in the cockpit of one of the most legendary of all aircraft – the Spitfire. The hardest task will be persuading the kids to move on to the next exhibit!

Then there are films to be watched in the small cinema.

These are no ordinary films – you can join a team of recruits for an intense air fighter training flight or take part in a WW1 dogfight with the Red Baron. Most dramatic of all is the 4D experience of flying in formation with the Red Arrows as they dip and dive around the skies.

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Wherever you go in the museum there are stories of real people, some of whom are serving members of the RAF, such as Warrant Officer Shobha Earl who became the RAF’s first Asian female Warrant Officer in 2001.

During her career she has been responsible for organizing numerous prestigious ceremonial events. Then there is Noor Inayat Khan, an Indian Princess who joined the WAAF and was involved with the French Resistance in Paris, Sir Frank Whittle, who conceived the idea of jet propulsion, and Squadron Leader Louis Ulric Cross who took part in an amazing 80 flying operations during WW2, part of which was as a member of the extremely perilous Pathfinder squadron.

Even the more traditional displays provide some surprises: How about a violin in RAF colours made during

the last days of WW1 by an RAF technician whiling away his spare time, finding a use for scrap materials scattered around the base? Or a lucky model kitten that accompanied a WW1 pilot on his travels, and the delightful flying dog jacket – a tiny item of clothing made for an officer’s dog during WW2, later used to dress a child’s teddy bear. Then there is the 1940’s wooden camera made by a POW in a German camp, as well as some of the items that helped them to escape, such as a radio concealed in a water canteen, maps and currency hidden in playing cards which would help escapees. Not all escapes from POW camps were successful, as the drawings from The Great Escape bear witness. During that escape attempt, an RAF officer organized the digging of three tunnels – Tom, Dick and Harry – under the camp and although all 76 escapees www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

managed to navigate the tunnels to freedom, 50 of them were eventually recaptured and shot.

Anyone looking for aircraft will have plenty to see. The range of aircraft is immense and includes a Submarine Southampton Flying Boat, A Canberra PR3, Hurricanes, Spitfire, helicopters and an Autogryo. One of the newest additions to the museum is the Sea King helicopter, which was flown by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, during his service as a pilot at RAF Valley in Anglesey.

This is definitely one of the most entertaining and interesting museums dealing with the subject of flight that anyone can visit.

Check out the museum’s website before you choose your day, as they often hold special events and children’s activities such as crafts, story telling and guided tours.

www.rafmuseum.org

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A vegan weekend in June

Leeds Town Hall Steps

Leeds plays host the Yorkshire Vegan Festival by Marcus Macaulay

A slightly overcast but dry day in June 2018 saw the fourth Great Yorkshire Vegan Festival. I went along to see what it was all about. The festival was in full swing when I arrived, bustling with people inside and out. The 100% volunteerrun festival took place at Leeds Townhall. A wonderful building, though the lighting inside leaves a lot to be desired. Despite of this the range of vegan products on display looked and smelled great. With over 150 exhibitors at the festival selling everything from vegan shoes to chocolate cream eggs.

The festival organizer, Victoria Bryceson told us, “this event is designed to show people from all walks of life that veganism is healthy and affordable”.

I spoke to Gill Ogden-Ward who is the Managing Director of Sacred Lotus which creates vegan, gluten free and refined sugar free foods. This includes delicious pies, cakes and scrumptious organic chocolate truffles.

Gill explained, “I source chocolate that is made with coconut sugar because it has a low glycemic index”.

She continued, “In addition to our breads and other savoury products, we make our own version of KimChi”, a Korean dish which is usually made with fish sauce, “we have replaced that with Brown Rice Mizo”.

Cool Jerk Vegan Pies from Glasgow was my next port of call. Jamie was selling a fine looking selection of vegan scotch pies. He explained that he was, “happy to be back in Leeds selling his handmade 100% vegan pies”.

I sampled the Haggis and Mash, Macaroni cheese and a steak and gravy pie. The steak is a meat substitute that Jamie uses from SGAIA Vegan Meats. This is a manufacturing company that supply a vegan meat made with a uniquely crafted blend of wheat and soya protein.

Jamie will be back at the end of the year for the Leeds Vegan Winterfest.

Next, I was drawn over to an eye catching cake stall. This stall belonged to Clemie and she proudly showed me her vast selection of delicious cupcakes, Viennese swirls and red velvet cookies.

Clemie told us, “I love baking!, ever since I can remember I have enjoyed cooking and baking for my family and friends”.

She continued to tell me about her business that is based in Nottingham - Clemies Vegan Cakes informing me that her best-selling product is her homemade millionaires shortbread.Clemie’s Vegan Cakes is a 100% vegan bakery.

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I ventured back outside to be greeted by a packed outdoor area, bustling with people and yet more stalls.

Marquees were busily preparing and serving hot authentic vegan street food. From pizzas and burgers to pad thai noodles. The selection was wide and varied. Street performers were entertaining the masses on the Town Hall steps. Children were eating vegan ice cream and everybody was having a great time.

I managed to get hold of Victoria Bryceson the festival organiser for interview. She had been very busy managing the whole event.

With over 150 exhibitors at the festival selling everything from vegan shoes to chocolate cream eggs.

“I have 3 aims for this festival” she explained “the first is to create a safe space for vegans to come and eat a vast array of food products without the worry of what ingredients are included” “Secondly, I would like non vegans to attend in order to better understand and embrace the vegan life.” “We hold cookery demonstrations and talks in order to better explain why and how they can potentially become vegan, if they so wish”.

“And finally, we are always here to raise money and promote awareness for animal welfare and other vegan charities” she added, “we rescue and neuter cats and dogs, rehabilitate the animals and educate people on this subject”.

My thanks to Victoria and her friendly volunteers and all the stallholders that very kindly allowed me to photograph and film this amazing event.

You can see a video and more photographs of the event at online at britishmuslim-magazine.com

Did you know?

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A vegan does not use, or endorse the use of, any animal products or animal derivatives either in food or drink products or in other products like shoes and beauty products etc.

So what do vegans eat ?

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Vegans eat a great deal. There are plenty of exciting foods and flavours on offer, especially if you’re a creative person in the kitchen. A vegan diet is richly diverse and comprises all kinds of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, seeds, beans and pulses.

Entertainment •

Vegans do not support animal exploitation in any way. Vegans do not visit zoos or waterparks where fish are held in captivity and also do not partake in horse or dog racing events.

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Vegans do however contribute to animal welfare charities and have a helping hand in providing new homes to rescued animals.

Clemies Vegan Cakes

Above & Below: Jamie, Cool Jerk Vegan Pies

The next Vegan events confirmed are :-

Saturday 3rd Nov 2018 from 10:30am to 4:30pm at Bath Pavillion, Bath.

Sunday 26th Nov 2017 from 10:30am to 5pm at Leeds Town Hall, Leeds.

www.veganeventsuk.co.uk www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

Photography: Marcus Macaulay

Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th Sept 2018, 11.00am – 5.00pm both days, Hilton Hotel, Brighton.

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Photographing Waddesdon Manor The most visited National Trust property in the UK. By Marcus Macaulay There is some wonderful architecture throughout the UK and the closer you look, the more interesting it gets. I’m particularly interested in photographing architectural sculpture.

This magnificent Grade I listed building in the Vale of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, was built between 1874 and 1889 for the Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild. Built in a NeoRenaissance style of a French chateau, it really is impressive.

The entrance to the grounds takes you through some ornate gates leading to a huge modern car park, with good disabled access, electric car charging points and a visitor’s centre. Here’s where you can purchase tickets for the grounds and/or the house. Adult house and grounds ticket is £22 / child £11 and under 5s go free. A family of two adults and up to 3 children is £55. If that’s a bit steep you can just visit the grounds £12 / £6 or a family ticket is £30.

If you are a National Trust member it is free. I’d come to photograph the building so on this occasion I opted for a grounds ticket.

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From the visitor’s centre there’s no view of the house as it is some distance from the carpark. There’s a well organised shuttle bus traveling regularly back and forth arriving at the front of the house, or you can choose to walk. The walk takes around 15 minutes uphill and takes you to the south facing rear of the house. I chose to walk.

The grounds are beautiful with classical sculptures all around. In the centre of the gardens to the south of the building, is an ornate fountain, the ‘Fountain of Pluto and Proserpine’. Lots to photograph.

The manor was originally built as a weekend residence for entertaining. A building like this was to show off wealth and it does that in grand style. The eclectic architecture featuring renaissance towers is impressive enough, but it’s the fine details I look for. High up on the manor are macabre stone carved heads, looking down on the 100’s of people milling around enjoying the grounds. What do these mean? Why are they there? Was there some sinister purpose or are they purely decorative? Gargoyles built to

Top left: Front the of the manor Top right: Close up of the south side Above: Fountain of Pluto and Proserpine Right: Stone head on the exterior Photography: Marcus Macaulay

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Top left: Stone heads high up on the exterior below: Fountain of Pluto and Proserpine Right: Classical scupture opposite the aviary Photography: Marcus Macaulay

ward off evil spirits? I find these fascinating, so using a long lens I’m able to photograph the ornate stone details closeup. The weather was perfect for this kind of photography.

Not too much sun casting shadows.

There is another ornamental fountain to the front of the manor, the Fountain of Triton and Nereids, by Giuliano Mozani. I’m not totally sure what Triton is doing to Nereid, maybe the sculptor was having some fun here.

The grounds are also host to some Three-dimensional planting sculptures, which I found a little bizarre. There is an aviary, though I am not keen on looking at captive birds.

I suspect in the years to come these will be a thing of the

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past. In the centre of the aviary is a classical sculptured water feature, again I feel the sculptor was being a bit cheeky.

All in all, the time spent photographing the building and grounds was very rewarding and I hope to return soon to have a look around the interior of the Manor.

If you would like any further information on Waddesdon Manor everything you need to know is on their website waddesdon.org.uk. To see more photographs of this and other places I visit, please take a look at www.theartaroundus.co.uk and future issues of British Muslim Magazine.

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Handbag trends The last few seasons have thrown up all manner of handbag trends – beaded box styles, sequinned pouches and architectural wooden structures have all been part of the fashion vernacular. But this autumn, those in the know are ditching maximalist styles in favour of a back-to-basics approach; gone are the fussy designs and impractical shapes, replaced by clean lines, classic colours and smart leather.

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Ophidia GG small shoulder bag - £1,170 Niki baby in vintage leather - £1,415 Prada Diagramme nappa leather bag - £1,080 Chloé Mansur Gavriel bucket bag - £1,065 Balenciaga Ville top handle XXS - £1,140 Louis Vuitton new wave chain bag MM (Exclusively Online only) - £1,560

7. Chanel camera case - £2,880

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MENS BELTS Nothing beats a luxury leather belt for pitch-perfect accessorising, so make sure you finish your outfit off right, with one of our best picks

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LV INITIALES - With the iconic letters at its centre, there’s no mistaking the LV Initiales belt. The exquisitely embossed mini damier pattern in suede calf leather is a testament to the House’s craftsmanship. £405

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Gucci Leather belt with Web - The leather belt features a classic squared buckle and is enriched with the Wed stripe at the belt loop. The subtle nod to the House, first introduced by Gucci in the 1950s, speaks to its equestrian inspiration. £270

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Hermes - Hermes leather belt in Epsom calfskin, palladium plated buckle. £1,220

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Tom Ford full grain leather belt – A more subtly different designer option £500

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Mulberry 4cm Brown woven leather belt - The vegetable tanned leather is left untreated to provide a rich fullgrain finish. £195

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www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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By Huma Baig

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Anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar and many other mental health conditions can often be dismissed...

Mental health Shedding light on important issues By Rikkie Knight Being someone who has battled with anxiety and depression as a result of an intense roller-coaster year, I truly understand how important it is to begin shedding light upon the existence of mental health issues.

With so little conversation on the subject, and many misconceptions, the reality of living with mental health challenges is often a lonely one. In the mainstream and across social media, there has been an enormous amount of work done to spread awareness of the subject, from self-love campaigns, to mental health awareness weeks. This coverage and dialogue is fantastic but often the very real, darker side is hidden, the side where many mental health sufferers feel shame and feel shunned by society. That side is where the most love, support and care is needed. For us to be able to do this we must be willing to understand.

Anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar and many other mental health conditions can often be dismissed and referred to as a sign of weak Iman (Faith). Some even believe that those struggling with these conditions have actively chosen to have them. Even if it is accepted that you do have a problem it should be of the tongue, never should it manifest into any action. Being unable to get out of bed is due to laziness; continuously crying is due overreaction; and having a panic attack is merely seeking attention. These are just a few examples of how a lack of understanding can result in people being harsh in their judgement.

The truth is there a more people struggling with mental health than you can imagine. At least one in four people living in the U.K will experience a mental health problem every year. These people come from all different backgrounds and come in all shapes and sizes. The purpose of our discussions www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

is to educate and empower one another. The hardest thing about mental health is that often it isn’t visible; in many circumstances people do not see the signs in a friend or relative who is seriously struggling until it is too late, but together we can encourage this to change.

Anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar and many other mental health conditions can often be dismissed...

Over the next few months I’ll be sharing stories from those who have experienced mental health difficulties and those who are helping others to overcome them. I’ll be giving you tips and advice on how to maintain your own mental health, spot the signs of someone who may need help and where you can seek support.

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Recommended books to read

If you’re struggling to recommend a good book for your next book club, here are 6 book’s we recommend which are exciting and original books to get the conversation started.

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Muslim Fashion: Contemporary Style Cultures £19.63 - Amazon

Thinking About It Only Makes It Worse, by David Mitchell £6.25 - Amazon

The Trial, by Franz Kafka £11.99 - Amazon

I Am Thunder, £5.35 - Amazon

The Recovery Letters, £9.18 Amazon

Finding Peace in the Holy Land A British Muslim Memoir, £9.99 Kube Publishing

Spun: Giving a voice to the modern-day Muslim women in todays Britain” For Rabiah Hussain, a renowned writer her latest theater play “Spun” is a celebration of the modern day British Muslim women in today’s Britain which addresses a significant subject of giving them a voice, their dreams, careers and why they deserve to have a platform to express their thoughts. Words: Rabi’ah.M Celebrated British Pakistani writer Rabi’ah Hussain talks about her recent theater play staged in the heart of London “Spun”showcasing the lives of the British Muslim women in the U.K with the objective of giving them a voice to express themselves.

When you talk to Rabi’ah Hussain, she comes across as a modest individual who defines herself as a British Pakistani Muslim woman who grew up in East London and is a writer. The inspiration behind Spun is an interesting one as Rabi’ah explains: “I wanted to write a play that focused on young British Pakistani women from working-class backgrounds. It would be a story centering around their experiences of navigating London. Also, illustrating strong and complex characters which depict the women who I know of this background.”

When analysing Spun as a play and how it differs from other theater plays, Rabi’ah explains it comes down to feedback from the audience whereby a lot of young British Asian girls expressed they felt elated due to the representation on stage for the first time. She goes on to emphasise: “ This is regardless of them being a Muslim or Pakistani from the South Asian diaspora have a common culture and experiences that bind them together.” Moreover, the characters seem to extend beyond the background element whereby it is their objectives and interests that are highlighted. Perhaps the fact this story talks about the middle ground, where nobody ends up becoming a terrorist, or goes to Syria or becomes an activist or totally renouncing their culture or faith is what makes it interesting to watch. At the heart of Spun is a story of two girls who are set to embark on their careers and it narrows down on how extremes have a ripple effect on them which tends to differentiate the play.

The female Muslim identity in contemporary Britain is an important subject addressed in Spun as Rabi’ah points: “Such a subject holds great relevance and significance since we exist and the fact we have a voice where we can narrate our stories, which is something I always wanted to show.”

Regarding the challenges faced by Muslim women in today’s Britain, Rabi’ah believes this depends on www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

intersections. “If you are a Muslim woman who covers, your challenges are certainly varied to those who do not.

Similarly, if you are a working-class Muslim woman your challenges will differ from the Muslim women belonging to a highly affluent background. Furthermore, it depends on different factors, however, the sole common challenge is that those on the outside seem us all the same that could not be further from the truth.”

Her aspirations are to extend the Spun tour by taking it to some schools in Newham where young girls could witness themselves represented on stage and perhaps it would spark more of an interest in the arts for them.

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Creative Wedding ideas: Wed like a Royal

With the Royal wedding being the most memorable wedding of 2018, why not create your own royal and iconic wedding? Here are six unique themes and venues with which to mark your own stamp of royalty. By Tahira Khan

www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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Eltham Palace If you want your very own royal wedding, Eltham Palace is an unoccupied royal residence in which you can get married. The Palace was used as a royal residence until the 16th century, originally the home of Edward II. The interior of Eltham Palace features a grand 1930s art-deco style. Choose from an array of stunning rooms and features throughout the palace, including the glass-domed roof, the medieval Great Hall and the beautiful outdoor terrace and lawn.

...most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world...

Kew Gardens Kew Gardens is home to the largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world.

It’s the perfect setting if you want a flower-filled wedding. The beautiful venue has a variety of gorgeous rooms to choose from, including the Nash Conservatory, the Orangery, the Temperate House and Cambridge Cottage. Whichever venue you choose be sure to top it off with a plethora of floral arrangements and enjoy the outdoor setting too, which is perfect for photographs.

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London Zoo If you are an animal lover, make your favourite creatures a part of your wedding by getting married at London Zoo. The zoo offers two stylish venues in which you can get married: Better yet you can truly get up close and personal with the animals on your wedding day by having your reception in one of the animal houses. To make it even more special all profits from your wedding at ZSL will go towards work to help wildlife around the world.

Strawberry Hill House Strawberry Hill House has been awarded The English Wedding Award for London Romantic Wedding Venue of the year. The historic building which dates back to 1747 is the perfect setting for a wedding and the venue offers two rooms in which you can host your ceremony. The lavish gallery is a popular choice, with its fan vaulted ceilings and decadent crimson and gold interiors, whilst the smaller round room is a wonderful, intimate setting for a less decadent event. The venue’s other historic rooms, gothic exterior and expansive colourful lawn are also perfect for capturing photos. www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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The Globe The Globe Theatre has been the setting of many a romance, from Romeo and Juliet to a Midsummer Night’s Dream, so why not set your romantic story there? You can choose from the beautiful Balcony Room which boasts striking views of the theatre and St Pauls, or you can opt for the Underground Globe which is situated underneath The Globe Theatre and features dramatic touches such as a model oak tree and a sweeping staircase. The Globe prides itself on making every wedding which takes place there unique, so why not see if it’s right for your storybook wedding.

Tower Bridge Did you know that you can get married in London’s famous Tower Bridge? As one of the most recognisable emblems of London, Tower Bridge would be an incredibly special choice for your wedding day.

The famous London sight offers several choices for hosting your wedding, with its panoramic highlevel walkways and North Tower Lounge available for your ceremony and reception, while the incredible Victorian Engine Rooms can also be used for the reception. Whichever you opt for, each area of Tower Bridge offers a spectacular and unique setting for your special day.

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Eid Gift Ideas for your loved ones

by Natasha Syed 1.

Purple Love is a perfect gift for any women, its bold floral, hint of ylang ylang, lilly of the valley & rose freshness slowly settles into a sensual scent. Its versatility ensures that it can be worn from the office to a formal evening occasion. Every woman needs a bottle of Purple Love – 50ml, £55

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Wood de Amber is a strong scent. Its aromatic smell definitely lasts all day. The fragrance is an intense woody oriental fragrance for dynamic men. It has a punch of apple and Cardamom mix – 50ml, £60

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Meet the Salam Sisters! A group of loveable, fun, culturally diverse, and incredibly motivated girls. Choose from 5 loveable characters which includes Layla, who loves gardening, wellbeing and her fashion. These dolls would make a perfect Eid gift for your loved ones – Layla has a 3D version, brought to life through augmented reality via your smartphone or tablet through the Salam Sisters app. This can be downloaded complimentary from the App Store and Google Play. £39.99 per doll.

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Fancy some Wine? Arabesque is an elegant and chic de-alcoholised sparkling wine derived from a Chardonnay base, adorned

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with flakes of 24 carat gold with fine and delicate foam. The intense fruity and floral aromas mingle with subtle notes of vanilla and hazelnut revealing a very aromatic and persistent palate combined with pleasant bitterness. Priced at £59 a bottle, Arabesque Gold is a perfect halal present for your friends and family.

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This is the story of my life. It's about me as a Muslim Brit embracing dual identities, surviving the turbulent teens and transitioning from self-doubt to self-belief. There is a little bit of drama, lots of laughs, plenty of practical advice and a shedload of bold statements. You can't get a Muslim woman in a hijab with no opinion, am I right?!' Dina x Guys, get ready. YouTuber and social media sensation Dina Torkia is giving you a never-seen-before look into her world.

From advice on fashion, beauty and style, to frank opinions on family, career and faith, this is everything that Dina has ever wanted to share with you. So let Dina tell you how it really is, living and loving life as a modern Muslim Brit - £10.60 (A great read.co.uk)

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Greek Honeymooning

By Tahira Khan

Your new life together has just begun! So why not escape to a dream honeymoon in Greece?

With thanks to Grecotel, we have managed to hand-pick four of the most romantic destinations to make your honeymoon the oncein-a-lifetime trip that it should be.

Amirandes - The perfect place to let romance blossom in paradise.

From the moment you check in as a newly- wedded couple, this exclusive resort promises five-star service, backed by the Cretan Riviera's picture-perfect surroundings.

All suites, villas and rooms feature designer furniture and endless sea views. The resort also offers a full line-up of entertainment for couples, one speciality being an outdoor cinema, and Heraklion, one of the world's most romantic cities, is just 20 km away. The Rose Garden Honeymoon Package includes a welcome drink and fresh fruit in your room. Find your bed adorned with a special decoration of sugared almonds and rose petals. Enjoy a romantic breakfast on the shaded veranda before you soak up the sun by your private pool. Then, celebrate with a candlelit dinner under a starry night's sky.

Corfu Imperial – When you want as much luxury as possible, then this exclusive resort, set on a private peninsula, provides peace in an unspoilt location, though Corfu Town is only 12 km away. Regal villas feature interiors splashed in royal colours with hand-painted murals. Each villa overlooks the sea, whilst shaded verandas lead you straight onto the beach.

To top things off, you can enjoy live entertainment, Michelinstarred cuisine and an option to sail away on the Ionian Sea. Pick from a sunset cruise or an on-board dining experience. You can even charter a private yacht during your stay.

Focused on romance, the Pearl Perfection Honeymoon Package includes a beverage on arrival, bed decoration, a candlelit dinner and Melokarido – a Greek tradition of honey and walnuts symbolising the sweetness of life. There will also be a romantic breakfast served in your room the next morning. www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

Mykonos Blu – With top-notch service and laid back energy, Mykonos Blu creates an intimate retreat in which to indulge.

Tucked away on the famous Psarou Beach, the resort's whitewashed décor complements dramatic views over the Cyclades. What's more, a personal butler is at your service 24/7. For a once in a lifetime experience, spend your honeymoon in a divine villa with private pool and sparkling sea views. Relax with a massage, make the most of your private garden, or float in a chromatherapy tub for two. Elixir Spa therapists can even arrange massages and beauty treatments in the privacy of your villa, or outdoors by your pool.

Complete your stay with the Orchid Symphony Honeymoon Package, which adds a 60-minute relaxing massage for two in the Elixir Alchemy Spa with an outdoor fireplace and a private garden.

Cape Sounio – Overlooking the mythical Temple of Poseidon: this venue is dedicated to making your honeymoon truly unforgettable. Bask in a bath filled with scented water, flower petals, bubbles or aromatherapy oils, whilst the mood is set with candles, music and lighting.

Nourish your body and soul with an Ayurveda treatment while you admire landscaped gardens and a sea view forest.

With every detail of your honeymoon arranged, your hardest decision will be whether to relax together by the sea, enjoy an in-villa massage, make the most of your gorgeous private garden or float away in a Jacuzzi tub at the spa.

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The Ultimate Muslim wedding checklist Whether you’re a couple of months away or a year from your big day, plan each stage with confidence! By Natasha Syed 12 Months Before The Wedding – You’re on a roll…

8-10 Months Before the Wedding •

Book band or DJ for your reception

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Research and reserve accommodations for guests

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Contact décor hire companies if you need to rent anything for ceremony/reception, such as chairs/ covers, tables etc

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Book your honeymoon - flights and accommodation

Decide what type of entertainment you want for your perfect ceremony, drinks reception and dancing or a religious wedding with nasheed’s

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Order your wedding cake/cupcakes or both!

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Book a photographer

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Book a videographer

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Research your venue decor

Order your wedding dress - many boutiques consider under six months a 'rush order' and will apply a fee

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Research and consider a wedding planner or venue stylist if you can splash out.

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Book ceremony musicians or Naat singer

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Start your wedding dress research #Excited!

Ensure passports are in date for honeymoon - order new ones if necessary

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Start sending your ‘’Save the date’’ cards - Super important if you're getting married abroad, or during a very busy time of year

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Start planning honeymoon - activities and excursions

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Start planning your hen/stag PAARTY! - well not you, the best man and bridesmaids should!

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Pop that important question to our bridesmaids and groomsmen

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Enlist your talented friends of family with aspects of the wedding (for the cake, flowers, dresses etc)

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Visit and book your reception venue and ceremony location

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Research potential wedding Suppliers photographer, florist, invitations, cake, decor, music, hair and makeup

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Consider Wedding insurance options

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www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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6-8 Months Before the Wedding

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4-6 Months Before the Wedding •

Choose your bridesmaid’s dresses

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Choose and order wedding invitations and stationery

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Meet with florist to discuss options

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Have final wedding dress fitting

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Shop for groom’s suit

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Make any last-minute adjustments with suppliers

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Rent the men’s formalwear or splash out if you can afford it

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Complete any wedding DIY or craft projects

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Organise the legalities – give at least three months notice to your registrar or Imam/Moulvi.

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Review final RSVP list and call any guests who have not yet responded

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Arrange travel vaccinations if necessary

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Organise wedding transport

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Start gathering addresses for guest list - create spread sheet for RSVPs

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2 Weeks Before the Wedding •

Deliver ‘’must have’’ shots to photographer and videographer - include who should be in formal portraits and determine when portraits will be taken

Organise a hair trial and book hairdresser

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Give venue/caterer final guest head count

Organise a makeup trial and book a makeup artist

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Create your table plan

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

1 Week Before the Wedding

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Send invitations to guests

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Attend dress fittings

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Choose and order wedding rings

Supply wedding coordinator with a list of supplier requests such as a table for DJ or setup space needed by florist.

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Organise gifts for parents, bridesmaids, groomsmen and each other

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Print place-cards

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Buy your Sherwani, Lehengha, shoes, accessories, hair-pieces, bow ties etc - allow for longer if you're ordering online

Call all wedding suppliers to confirm arrangements - create a timetable for day

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Have a halal menu tasting with your venue or halal caterer

Give ceremony and reception site managers a schedule of vendor delivery and setup times, plus contact numbers.

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4 Weeks Before the Wedding

Get manicure, massage, waxing & all your preening and prep done

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Ensure the cake is on track to be delivered to reception venue - have someone else look after this one!

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Get a good night’s rest!

The Wedding Day! •

Give the gifts for your parents to the best man/ bridesmaid for after the speeches

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Flowers delivered to where the bride is getting ready buttonholes may need to be brought to the guys

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Give wedding bands to the best man to hold during the ceremony

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Introduce your reception coordinator to your wedding planner (if you're having one), or bridesmaid/bestman for questions or problems during the reception.

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Assign a family member or attendant to be the photographer's contact so he knows who is who.

After the Wedding

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Do full wedding dress rehearsal from underwear to dupatta (Scarf) setting

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Pack an overnight bag for the reception

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Pack for the honeymoon

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Prearrange for someone to return any rentals

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Pre-plan for someone to take the wedding dress and suit for cleaning or return a rented tux to the rental shop

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Write and send thank-you notes to gift-bearing guests and vendors who were especially helpful.

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Collect your marriage certificate

2-3 Days Before the Wedding •

Make last minute changes to table plan if necessary

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Grooms: Go for final fitting and pick up your formalwear.

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Grooms: Ask the best man to make sure all groomsmen attend fittings and pick up their outfits.

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Confirm pick-up times with wedding car company

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Reconfirm final details with all vendors. Discuss any necessary last-minute substitutions

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Print off a sheet with the running order for the day, and the main suppliers' contact details, give copies to your family

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The Day Before the Wedding

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Drop off place cards, table cards, menus, favours, table plan to reception coordinator

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Provide all wedding professionals with an emergency phone number to call on the day of the wedding.

•

Sort out payment (write cheques/organise cash) for any final balances to be paid at the end of the reception.

www.britishmuslim-magazine.com

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Spa Review

Spa Shell at Fishmore Hall

By Tahira Khan

I had the opportunity to visit a stunning privatelyowned boutique country house hotel which is located in Shropshire, overlooking the charming town of Ludlow. The hotel affords beautiful views of the countryside.

Spashell is quietly nestled in the gardens of Fishmore Hall. The Spa offers an holistic collection of wellness spa therapies by Elemis.

The spa is very cosy, tucked away with an outdoor cedar wood hot tub in the garden, along with a giant hammock and indoor cabin where you can relax and drink beverages.

I was impressed by the multi-sensory, touch screen settings of the steam room and sauna, where you can preset your own themed aromas and functions. I chose a tropical rainforest setting that gave me green lights and a light scattered shower. The Sauna was very state of the art with infra-red lights.

My favourite was the outdoor hot tub which, despite the weather being quite cold and rainy, I still enjoyed, with its combination of the hot and cold sensations of water with hot water jets massaging the aching muscles of the body and cold hailstones on my face. I reacted with shock at first, but felt quite delightful after getting over the initial coldness.

The natural sound of the rain and being outdoors isn’t what most people would take to, but being protected by the hot water in the cedar tub created a different kind of experience: It was like having my own garden spa, and the privacy was really nice compared to being at a busier spa. Just watching the sunset across the hills was spectacular too.

The Treatment

I was curious to try the Lavashell massage. My therapist gave me a thorough consultation and asked about my areas of concern. A warmed Elemis Destress Massage oil I was initially applied and then I was massaged with hot lava shells over my body with added firmness on my upper back and calves. It felt like a treatment worth indulging in, as it not only worked deep into the muscles and their tension, but also gave the element of relaxation too. The duration also felt long enough for one to become rested and relaxed.

The Therapist finished off with a calming head massage,

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using ‘Quiet Mind Temple Balm’ by Elemis at the temples, which was a really nice finishing touch.

If you are looking for added well being then another beneficial treatment to try is the ‘Elemis Hot Mineral Energising Body Boost’ which helps to remove toxins, helping to stimulate cell renewal, as well as alleviating muscular pain. If you are looking to detox for the summer, then I recommend the Elemis Thousand Flower Detox Wrap, which uses Green tea extract in a balm to stimulate a powerful detoxification.

Local Sights

The town has an historical aspect to it; about a five minute taxi journey from the hotel Ludlow Castle is the town centre, where there is a regular vintage market selling arts and crafts, food and household goods. As you walk along the cobbled streets you notice the Tudor style houses and shops still standing today, a major part of the town’s historical charm.