FACT Dubai September 2019

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SEPTEMBER 2019 VOL 02. ISSUE 11 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

Please, don’t leave me :-(

UNPLUGGED

DUBAI DINING

Are you in need of a digital detox or is that too much FOMO to handle?

The city’s best culinary deals and food promos for September fact magazine

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F R I DAY

Fork

Cork

Treat yourself to a tantalising Friday Brunch to remember at Crescendo, Anantara The Palm. Experience a mouth-watering culinary journey through a selection of global flavours in a relaxed, yet lively setting for friends and family.

Every Friday 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm AED 365 per person, including soft beverages AED 525 per person, including house beverages AED 630 per person, including Italian sparkling AED 735 per person, including bubbly *Inclusive of 7% Municipality Fee, 10% Service Charge and 5% VAT

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com 2

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ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT P.O. BOX 71607, EAST CRESCENT, PALM JUMEIRAH, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES T +971 4 567 8304 • F +971 4 567 8009 • E restaurants.dubai@anantara.com

CONTENTS PAGE 08 FACT FINDS: Get ready to indulge in Afternoon Tea. PAGE 23 UNPLUGGED: The woes of taking a digital detox?

PAGE 30 SOCIAL MEDIA 101: Popular platforms to get your fix.

PAGE 56 HOTEL HOTSPOT: Luxury London life comes calling.

PAGE 73 FASHION FOCUS: Ted Baker’s AW’19 collection is style goals.

PAGE 85 CULINARY SPOTLIGHT: Portuguese dining at its best.

PAGE 93 FOODIE CORNER: Take a seat at Olea for a journey to the Levant.

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• THE EDITOR

STATUS: POWER OFF “ “Do more things that make you forget to look at your phone.”

H

ave you ever thought about what it would be like to live off the grid? No phone, no tablet, no hashtags and, probably, no hassle. You’d have less FOMO every day and more of the simple things to enjoy in life - sounds unreal, right? I wonder then, WHY is it so difficult for people to press pause and take a time out from all the likes and shares and just live in the moment? After all, YOLO (that’s the first and last time you’ll find me using that acronym).

We turn to our digital personas for various reasons; escapism, validation, boredom and often just for the sake of not feeling left out. When a platform can give you all of these things, and more, why would you want to switch off?

As hard as that might be for many to do, we all need a temporary closure for spiritual maintenance and so, in this month’s issue we give you some food for thought on the ultimate tech dilemma that every millennial and Gen Z has faced - disconnecting from social media. Turn to p23 and join the conversation in Unplugged. Are you due for a digital detox, or, is it something you could never dream of doing? Do you want to sign out but crave the addiction of your insta feed? We delve deep into this saturated virtual word to try and find the answers to why being offline is now the new luxury - but still SO hard to actually do.

When all’s said and done, the online community serves millions of people, daily. For those who want to stay on top of their game, check out Social Media 101 starting p30 for the top platforms to get your digital fix. We’ve also got all your social acronyms and tips on how to create a balance of real world and online identity.

September has way too many awesome things waiting for you to explore in Dubai and beyond. As always, you can enjoy a lowdown of the best and latest in the local food scene alongside fashion, cultural events, travel, motoring and entertainment.

For those of you who still haven’t gotten over some of summer's hottest finales (I'm talking Money Heist, The Handmaid's Tale and 13 Reasons Why). We’re here to help take your mind off it all with a jam-packed issue - shall we begin?☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com Insta: @shabs_a 4

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FACT Magazine Dubai Edition • SEPTEMBER 2019 VOLUME 02, ISSUE 11

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHERS EDWARD SMITH RAMI KHALIL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL LOCAL EDITOR ANGELA BEITZ SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT CONTRIBUTORS DAVID TAPLEY PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID TAPLEY PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION NEIL MAHMOOD AJIT KUMAR SALES COORDINATOR KIA MARIE PLACIDO ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES EDWARD SMITH (edward@ohlala-magazine.com) PRINTED BY UNITED PRINTING PRESS

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher.

All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. FZ-LLC cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

FACT M.E. FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O. Box 769328, Abu Dhabi, UAE License Number: D.L. 361/17/F

A CUT ABOVE THE REST 17 of the ďŹ nest cuts of meat imported from all around the world, exclusively picked and expertly carved right at your table.

HABTOOR PALACE DUBAI, LXR HOTELS & RESORTS Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates www.alhabtoorcityhotels.com

habtoorpalace

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• CONNECT

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Combining all four editions of FACT in Dubai and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from monthly food shoots, the best local events and all things fun from the FACT team around the Gulf.

UNPLUGGED

DUBAI DINING

Are you in need of a digital detox or is that too much FOMO to handle?

The city’s best culinary deals and food promos for September

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Dubai | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the city | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Dubai in local supermarkets now!

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Don't lose what is real, chasing what only appears to be."

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6084010480095

JULY/AUGUST 2019 VOL 02. ISSUE 10 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

Keep up with all things Dubai as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, events and everything we’re getting up to. Send us a message – we love hearing from our readers!

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FACT Dubai 92,624 reads of the Jul/Aug issue online If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu. com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more in Dubai.

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• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Brambles Afternoon Tea IF YOU’RE INTO LEISURELY LUNCHES AND CATCH UPS WITH FRIENDS, AND WANT TO KEEP THINGS HEALTHY AND YUMMY, BRAMBLES CAFE’S NEW VEGAN AFTERNOON TEA SHOULD DO THE TRICK…

W

e all love enjoying a lazy afternoon tea with friends and family, but with more of us becoming increasingly health conscious and switching to vegetarian or plant-based diets, it can become difficult to find a place that caters to your needs. If you’re one of those on the hunt for healthy and vegan afternoon tea options, then Brambles is the place to be, as the popular wholesome café has introduced its unique and guilt-free afternoon tea packages, with delicious vegan and vegetarian options to choose from.

Your tasty treats include: California inspired afternoon tea package (AED195 for two people and AED115 per person) with everything from artichoke and spinach tarts, to Feta and Roast Pepper tea sandwiches, Salmon and Fava Toasts, Manchego and Quince squares, and of course the kale brownie and more!

The Vegan Tea Party (AED250 for two people and AED135 per person), includes a selection of sweet and savoury bites such as oat and coconut scones, Chickpea Salad sandwiches, Beet Hummus and Apple sandwiches, Vegan Cheese and Cucumber finger sandwiches, Tahini Banana Bread, and more.

Afternoon tea at brambles is served every day between 3pm and 5pm, with advanced booking required. Brambles can also cater private and themed afternoon tea parties for bridal showers, baby showers and birthdays too, with prior reservations! ✤ 8

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GO: BRAMBLES IS LOCATED IN CITADINES METRO CENTRAL HOTEL, BARSHA HEIGHTS. FOLLOW @BRAMBLESDUBAI ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION.

Laze & Louvre at Abu Dhabi’s Best Address A picturesque time for two including a stay at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi with magnificent views from the iconic Nation Towers of the UAE capital and the Arabian Gulf, complemented by a visit to the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi – the first universal museum in the Arab World. The art-lovers dream that translates the spirit of openness of cultures and celebrates the universal creativity of mankind from ancient times to the contemporary era.

Live Exquisite from AED 800* for Two including: • Two nights at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi • Two tickets to the Louvre Abu Dhabi • Breakfast for two at The Terrace on the Corniche • Invitation to Champagne Sabering (one time, valid for 2 adults) • Bubble bath arranged by our Butler team • Early check-in and late check-out until 4pm (subject to hotel availability) *All prices are in UAE Dirham and are exclusive of applicable service charges, local fees and taxes.

©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates t. +971 2 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com

Stay exquisite at more than 40 St. Regis hotels and resorts worldwide. @stregishotels

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• LISTEN UP

HERITAGE AT PEARL CLUB Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is raising the bar for five-star hospitality by catering to its valued guests with the launch of the Pearl Club.

PAVING THE WAY WITH the first concept of its kind in the UAE, The Pearl Club is now welcoming elite guests, offering an extraordinary club lounge experience with exclusive services and amenities, in a luxury space that blends national heritage with modern opulence.

Exuding a sense of luxury in an inspirational setting, The Pearl Club promotes exclusivity coupled with panoramic views of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Available to book for guests residing in the Pearl Club rooms and suites, Waldorf Astoria Suites, Chairman’s Suite, and Royal Suite; the Pearl Club offers a host of special privileges coupled with elite service. Pearl Club guests have access to a travel concierge ahead of arrival, private check-in and check out at the Pearl Club, a dedicated personal club concierge and exclusive access to the Pearl Club floor via a special keycard. Select categories also receive complimentary usage of the hotel’s luxurious Bentley to select destinations.

Pampering guests with extra special touches, Pearl Club members are also welcome to enjoy the lounge’s complimentary dining, inclusive of a continental breakfast, afternoon tea, freeflowing beverages, all-day refreshments, plus evening cocktails with hors d’oeuvres, not to mention a 20% off when dining at the 10

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hotel’s contemporary Italian restaurant, Social By Heinz Beck. In preparation for a good nights’ rest, members can also request a choice of Neom fragrances upon turndown to help de-stress, relax or lift their mood.

The Pearl Club pays homage to the UAE’s rich pearl diving heritage whilst providing an authentic and luxurious experience.

This history is brought to life through its design and soft furnishings, with ancient maps, photography and artefacts, illustrating the region’s iconic history and providing guests with an immersive, cultural experience during their stay.

The Pearl Club takes Waldorf Astoria’s True Waldorf Service to a new level, with every detail taken care of by the dedicated concierge team. This allows guests to truly relax and make more time for creating unforgettable moments during their stay.

Single Occupancy: AED350; Double Occupancy: AED700; Triple Occupancy: AED700. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 818 2222 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

IGNITE YOUR SOUL

Let us greet you to a heartwarming 'hola' and make you feel welcome at the fiesta. Taste the smokiest meat cuts and the zestiest ceviches. Add a taco or two, share with the best of friends and say 'salud' and mean it.

Welcome to VaKaVa, Abu Dhabi's fiesta of Latin flavour and rhythm.

971 2 811 5666

JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com

jumeirah.com/VaKaVa

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• LISTEN UP

SOUL SANTÉ Vegan diets are becoming more popular by the day and whoever says that individuals with plantbased diets have limited options probably doesn’t know where to go!

SOUL SANTÉ IS THE new vegan, wholesome and healthy food café in the heart of Dubai Marina offering a wide selection of freshly made plant-based dishes that are calorie counted, free from nasties, sugar, soy, gluten and carbs, some being suitable for the keto diet and all that will delight your taste buds!

The idea behind Soul Santé sparked when founder Manisha Advani was looking for vegan, healthy desserts as a treat to satisfy her sweet tooth, that still tasted delicious and also had a lower calorie count. In her search however, she found that many restaurants were adding hidden ingredients and artificial flavours to their vegan dishes and it felt almost impossible to find desserts that checked all the boxes – and that’s how Soul Santé was born; serving vegan dishes with ingredients that taste delicious, as well as promote a healthier approach towards calorie counting and healthy eating.

As a cross fitter and athlete, Manisha also wanted to fight the notion that vegan dishes do not contain enough protein for the body and will leave you feeling hungry. As such, all the dishes at Soul Santé have been carefully curated and made from healthy, tasty and filling plant-based proteins such as lentils, chickpeas, nuts and more – offering dishes with high nutritional value that are good for your body and soul. Better still, you can create your own vegan bowl or salad with your own choice of ingredients, 12

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so whatever you’re craving for the day, Soul Santé guarantees there is something for everyone.

At Soul Santé, there is definitely no shortage of options to choose from and you definitely won’t end up tucking on side dishes or leave with a rumbling stomach! Some of the mouth-watering dishes on the menu include grilled peach salad, beetroot sliders, pulled jackfruit tacos and Soul Santé’s signature eggless omelette. For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts section on the menu won’t disappoint either, as you can indulge in guilt-free sweet treats such as lemon cookies, peanut butter cups, chocolate cupcakes and banana pancakes.

Soul Santé is the perfect spot to catch up with friends over a light bite or two, with chilled out music in the background and a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. Not to mention that Soul Santé is your place for strong WIFI and a good cup of coffee too! ✤

GO: SOUL SANTÉ IS OPEN DAILY FROM 8AM – 10PM, LOCATED IN JANNAH PLACE, DUBAI MARINA, WITH PLENTY OF FREE PARKING. FOLLOW @SOULSANTECAFE ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFO.

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• LISTEN UP

MEXICAN SOUL Meshico, the latest contemporary restaurant and bar to make its mark at the scenic waterfront destination, The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, is bringing the flavourful and vibrant world of Mexican cuisine to the city.

THE PASSIONATE CONCEPT OF Meshico presents a celebration of Central Mexican culture and flavours through an elevated culinary journey. Inspired by the melting pot of the central regions of Mexico, Meshico will combine modern with tradition as it showcases the artistry of the dynamic province.

The focus on the freshest ingredients results in a selection of produce painstakingly sourced from artisanal producers across central Mexico. This gives diners the chance to indulge the taste buds with an array of thoughtfully crafted dishes from authentic duck Carnitas to traditional ceviches and the region’s largest Agave menu to match.

Set across two floors, the design of the venue has been created as a reflection of the rich heritage from the region. Carved stone, copper indentations and bursts of colour are used throughout to compliment the bold and eclectic mix of flavours from the menu.

With an expansive space, each detail is specially commissioned to provide for a unique and authentic atmosphere; from glass piñata chandeliers to the 300 hanging hummingbird alebrijes, the space invites guests to experience the history of the charming traditions of Mexico. The upstairs bar and terrace provides panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, with comfortable lounge seating and high tables, guests are invited to gather over an 14

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extensive selection of tantalizing drinks and flavourful bites for a sensorial experience.

Vibrant interiors matched with rich Hispanic flavours and unparalleled traditions of the past transports guests to the heart of Mexico. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 514 4512 FOR RESERVATIONS AND FOLLOW @MESHICODUBAI ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

PLATED INSPIRATION Bombay Brasserie, Taj Dubai’s award-winning Indian designer kitchen has refreshed its menu with a range of inspiring dishes and long lost recipes.

THE REVAMPED MENU IS inspired by traditional cooking methods intertwined with modern culinary techniques and flavours, whilst still retaining the signature classics the restaurant is renowned for. Created to enjoy in Bombay Brasserie’s warm and colourful interiors, the new dishes are a treat for the eyes as well as the taste-buds. Chef Vikas brings to life rare delicacies such as the Aash Soup, a classic Persian specialty soup that lost popularity over the centuries, due to its exotic nature and the intensive slow cooking techniques required to create its rich and delicious flavours. A delicate specialty, the Wild Rice Tuna Salad, features soft-centred and lightly seared tuna with a coriander and cumin crust, served with a side of crispy Canadian wild rice and rucola. A classic Moghul street food favourite is reimagined with the Deconstructed Samosa Chaat, a crispy samosa pastry stuffed with green gram, potatoes and peas.

From the mains, guests will be able to enjoy the Kale and Smoked Cheese Kebab, bringing to the table the well-loved superfood, fused with a flavourful aloo tikka and served with a special tandoor charred pear chutney. A rare and robust Hyderabadi specialty is also featured, Pathar ka Gosht tender lamb escalopes slow cooked in a range of rich and vibrant spices, which will delight the palate. Diners can also

savour prime steak like never before with Bombay Brasserie’s Smoking Rib Eye, a reinvention of a classic - the dish combines fragrant Indian spices and Roganjosh style gravy, presented in an aromatic cloud of clove smoke, for a truly gastronomic experience. A nod to the yester years of tribal cooking in the Far East, guests will be able to indulge in the Bamboo Chicken Biryani, deliciously marinated chicken and biryani rice slow cooked in spices and stuffed into a raw bamboo log which is placed over a natural fire, presenting unique smoky and woody flavours. Other highlights include the Bamboo Prawns, a dish inspired by the North Eastern Indian tribes, flawlessly herbed prawns wrapped in a banana leaf and marinated in signature house spices and gravy, covered in bamboo and cooked tandoor style.

For the perfect sweet ending guests can indulge in the popular Indian frozen dessert Kulfi, savouring alterative and enticing flavours such as Chili, Rose, Mukhwas and Gulab Jamun. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 438 3222 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• LISTEN UP

HAKKATINI NIGHT IN CELEBRATION OF THE world’s love affair with the art of the martini, Hakkasan brings its celebrated Hakkatini night to Dubai. Taking place every evening from 6pm to 9pm, guests can experience a reinvention of the classic martini cocktail using exclusive fusions and unusual ingredients.

Curated by Hakkasan’s award-winning mixologists, guests can enjoy two expertly made cocktails or glasses of house grape along with a bite for just AED118 per person. The cocktail list includes the Lychee Martini, a sweet twist on the original, the fruity Hibitini infused with pineapple and passionfruit and the light and refreshing Floating Goddess.

Guests can also savor a light bite to accompany their beverage before heading for dinner, with mouthwatering options including the stir-fry vegetable and pine nut lettuce wrap, the grilled vegetarian Shanghai dumplings and Hakkasan’s signature salt and pepper squid. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 426 2626 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

PORTUGUESE DELIGHT TASCA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL Jumeira, Dubai introduced the city’s first Portuguese brunch, signed by acclaimed Portuguese chef José Avillez. While relaxing with uninterrupted ocean views and soothing tunes playing, it’s hard to believe you aren’t sitting in a secluded corner of the Algarve on a Friday afternoon. Dubai’s very first Portuguese brunch is full of the freshest and finest flavours. The extensive tasting menu means that made-to-order dishes are continuously brought to your table to be sampled and shared.

Guests can look forward to feasting on an array of Portuguese favourites including a variety of seafood, flavoursome grilled meats and decadently creamy desserts that would fulfil any dessert lovers’ craving. All dishes are served with imaginative flair and accompanied by a refreshingly fruity sangria and a collection of signature drinks which perfectly complement the dishes, and the setting. Guaranteeing a chic afternoon with a vivacious atmosphere and delicious Portuguese staples, Tasca is set to become one of the hottest brunches in the city this summer. Prices are set at AED300 with soft drinks and AED400 with house beverages. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MANDARINORIENTAL.COM/TASCA FOR MORE INFORMATION. 16

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LISTEN UP •

IT’S A KNOCK OUT! UAE boxing fans, it’s time to get in a frenzy and book those flights, as Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua OBE will rematch in a colossal Clash on the Dunes in the historical town of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia on December 7.

THE EXTRAORDINARY AND UNIQUE outdoor setting of Diriyah, a stunning UNESCO heritage site located on the outskirts of Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, will play host to the first ever Heavyweight World title fight in the Middle East. The original home to the founding members of the Al Saud Royal Family, Diriyah will now welcome the boxing World to ‘crown’ the unified king of the ring, for the most anticipated Heavyweight rematch in years.

Saudi Arabia has quickly established itself as an emerging hub for sports, entertainment and cultural events and ‘Clash on the Dunes’ follows on from the successful staging of the World Boxing Super Series in Jeddah last year where Callum Smith landed the Muhammad Ali Trophy. Confirmation of the bout between Ruiz Jr and Joshua is undoubtedly a watershed moment for the sport in the region and is arguably one of the biggest sporting events the country has witnessed to date.

His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki AlFaisal Al Saud, Chairman of the General Sports Authority of Saudi Arabia (GSA), said: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is proud, privileged and excited to stage a sporting occasion of such global magnitude to our country and specifically to Diriyah, a place that is treasured deeply in the hearts of our people.

“We can promise a warm and friendly welcome to all international visitors, an incredible atmosphere for the boxers and an unmissable event for all fans attending on a night filled with energy, colour and World-class entertainment,” he added.

“We know the world will be watching and as a nation we are ready to host a truly spectacular showpiece event.”

Ruiz Jr (33-1, 22 KOs) stunned Joshua to capture his IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World titles in one of the biggest Heavyweight upsets of all time at a sold-out Madison Square Garden in New York on June 1. In doing so, ‘The Destroyer’ created history by becoming the first boxer of Mexican heritage to be crowned World Heavyweight Champion.

Joshua (22-1, 20 KOs) attempts to regain his World titles and become a two-time Heavyweight ruler after tasting defeat for the first time in his professional career on his US debut in The Big Apple. The British sensation had won all 22 of his previous bouts before surrendering his titles to Ruiz Jr in what he described as a “minor setback”. Uninterested in a comeback fight, the 2012 Olympic gold medallist jumps into an immediate rematch with Ruiz Jr on neutral ground and looks to reclaim his position as the number one Heavyweight on the planet and continue on his journey to becoming the undisputed king. ✤ fact magazine

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• LISTEN UP

FOOD MEETS FILM Ever wanted a cinema all to yourself and your friends? A private space where you can pick the movie and enjoy an exclusive dining experience before your screening? If you answered yes, keep reading…

EMBARK ON THE ULTIMATE luxury movie-watching experience at Majid Al Futtaim’s latest innovative collaboration between Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates and VOX Cinemas.

A first-of-its-kind in a hotel, the private screening room along with a lavish private lounge, will take movie watching to a whole new level of personalisation. The new concept brings together the best movies, five-star food, drinks and 15 of your closest friends.

The private cinema consists of two distinct areas – a screening room equipped with VOX Cinemas’ cutting-edge audio-visual technology and fifteen plush seats, and a lavish lounge area featuring a bar and dining area complete with a marble table.

Waiter service is part of the experience and guests can choose from a premium food and beverage menu with dishes and drinks prepared to order throughout their four-hour stay in the cinema.

Whether it’s a group of girlfriends celebrating a special 18

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occasion, a bunch of friends looking for a fun night out, a team of colleagues or a family visiting Dubai, the private cinema can be personalised to every guest. Enjoy tasty bites like mezze platters, premium French cheese selections, juicy burgers, grilled meats and seafood, and fresh salads as well as a range of desserts. The extensive beverage menu includes a range of uniquely blended cocktails and mocktails, as well as grapes, bubbly and soft drinks.

A package at VOX Cinemas @ Kempinski, which includes complimentary soft drinks and popcorn, starts from AED3,000.

Additional food and beverage packages are also available as add-on options. ✤

GO: CALL (0)55 167 3908 OR VISIT WWW.VOXCINEMAS.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

HOSPITALITY REFINED This winter welcomes a game changer, with the introduction of Dubai’s first Andaz branded hotel, Andaz Dubai The Palm.

LOCATED IN THE HEARt of The Palm Jumeirah, the luxury boutique lifestyle hotel and residences will be rooted in Dubai’s rich culture, whilst reflecting the city’s eclectic style through all elements of design, interaction and experience. Introducing a barrier-free environment guests are invited to fully immerse themselves into the surrounding culture, arriving a visitor and departing a local.

Set to open on December 1, Andaz Dubai The Palm rests on a 300m private beach, within walking distance of the upcoming Nakheel Shopping Mall. Located on the right trunk of the shoreline, the two 15-story towers will house 217 bespoke guest rooms and 116 individually imagined designer residences.

Boasting a mix of fresh and contemporary sized spaces and floor to ceiling windows with 360-degree views of Dubai’s everevolving skyline, each room promises a unique experience centred around contemporary Arabic arts and crafts.

Paying homage to Dubai’s young and dynamic Emirati design culture, guests can expect local touches throughout – from textiles inspired by Sadu, geometrical embroidery on traditional hand-woven fabrics to beds framed by a canopy of waved wood to create a modern interpretation of a Bedouin tent. Creating a lasting impression, the hotel’s vibrant entrance harnesses the power of the sun to create a visual language of shadows and colour typical to the region. Contemporary art pieces showcasing up and coming local artists’ works will

seamlessly blend with the hotel interiors.

Created for the inquisitive-minded traveller, Andaz Dubai The Palm will offer an inspired local experience and stimulate guests’ senses through the city’s rich culture, heritage and attractions. Boasting five distinct dining venues bursting with local flavours, the culinary experiences aim to create a vibrant social scene with a kaleidoscope of international and traditional Middle Eastern influences.

Located on the 14th floor, Ora is a tranquil haven offering boutique relaxation with a carefully crafted menu of facial and body treatments for singles and couples. On the same floor, guests can gather around the captivating adult-only Cabana pool area embellished with vibrant tiles forming a magnificent modern Arabic mosaic. In-keeping with Andaz Dubai The Palm’s distinct and authentic design approach, four palm tree inspired umbrellas designed by local Emirati artist Khalid Shafar proudly flank each corner of the providing much-needed shade and undeniable style. Fitness fanatics can also enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness centre and yoga terrace, catering to all of guests’ wellness needs. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.ANDAZDUBAITHEPALM.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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NEWLOOK SIGNATURE SALON Newlook Salon, the new beauty destination in Dubai, has officially opened its doors at a convenient and trendy location in Aswaaq Center, Al Quoz 2.

THE PREMIUM SALON OFFERS a range of personalised beauty services and a special salon experience for all. Women in the region can choose from a huge array of wonderful services, from hair-colouring and hydrating treatments, expertly executed manicures, skincare treatments to waxing and threading options.

The carefully curated space has a regal feel to it where all clients are treated like VIPs. The salon emulates a cosmopolitan yet refined feel with dedicated spaces that devoid of all distractions. The team of experts provide top notch services to ensure meticulous attention to details using a variety of luxury products.

Newlook Salon arose from the diverse needs of women who believe they deserve more than just a basic one stop shop for all their beauty needs. It is for women who are in control of their destinies allowing grooming to be an expression of personal satisfaction.

Newlook Salon steps ahead in creative innovation, top quality services and versatile dynamics. The owners have a determined persona to push the boundaries of the norm and excel in giving their clients ultimate perfection in beauty services.

The opening hours are 10am to 10pm. ✤ 20

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GO: FOLLOW @NEWLOOKSALONDUBAI ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFO.

LISTEN UP •

HIGH FIVE! The wait is over as FIVE Jumeirah Village opens its doors this month, shaking up Dubai’s hotel and party scene, bringing double the FIVE fun to the city with 260 pools!

LOCATED IN THE HEART of the new urban lifestyle community, Jumeirah Village Circle, the award-winning and multi-patented hotel comprises 247 luxurious rooms and suites, and 254 one, two and four-bedroom hotel apartments and 269 pools all with spectacular views across the city and desert vista.

Jaydeep Anand, CEO of FIVE Jumeirah Village, said: ’’FIVE has established itself as a young and vibrant lifestyle brand, known for luxury, parties and award-winning dining experiences.

“FIVE Jumeirah Village follows the same identity with a great lineup of entertainment and homegrown concepts, which will turn the resort into a local hangout and the first licensed venue in the area and surrounding neighbourhood,” he added.

“Guests at FIVE Jumeirah Village can expect lots of ‘Instagramable’ moments throughout their stay,” said Claire Ferris-Lay, Director of Marketing and Communications, FIVE Hospitality. “From enviable bathroom views to private pools, design-focused restaurants and complimentary access to the beach at FIVE Palm Jumeirah. This will be showcased on our social media pages, which we encourage guests to follow and share their own experiences on through @FIVEJumeirahVillage and using the hashtag #FIVEJumeirahVillage,” Every room and suite has been expertly designed in house

by FIVE to create a contemporary penthouse style living with

the lush green of a villa garden. Bathrooms will offer the best bathtub in town with floor-to-ceiling, uninterrupted panoramic views across the city for that ultimate #bathroomgoals shot.

Set to be the heartbeat of the hotel is the innovative food concept, Soul Street – a multicultural hangout, which offers up honest street food, street art and street sounds with delicacies from Asia, Latin America, Europe, India and the Levant. Impressive street art crafted by international artists will transform the walls to amplify the soul-inspired vibe. This new wine and dine hotspot is set to open on September 28.

On top of the delicious dining venues, the one-of-a-kind haunt is also home to ReFIVE Spa and a state-of-the-art gym, InstaBody, offering a wide range of training options, classes and membership programmes designed to get your pulse racing. To upgrade your weekends, residents are also welcome to join in the fun at the hotel’s social pool, aside from tempting cocktails and delicious pool snacks, you can also enjoy a live DJ every Friday. ✤

GO: FOLLOW @FIVEJUMEIRAHVILLAGE ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION. fact magazine

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#BATH #& #BODY #WORKS #GINGHAM #EVENT On the occasion of Friendship’s Day, Bath & Body Works - the ultimate personal care and home fragrance lifestyle brand, celebrated launch of its newest fragrance Gingham at its newly reopened flagship stores: Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall. During the event, Bath & Body Works provided their customers the opportunity to win gifts for their friends. The brand’s tag line WE MAKE FRAGRANCE FUN was truly reflected during the celebration that included breakfast with superfans, flowers and giveaways, along with free hand cream distribution and hand massages throughout the day. Customers enjoyed the exciting new experiential environment in the revamped Bath & Body Works stores that offers an extensive array of luxurious lotions, hand soaps, personal care, candles and more.

Gingham collection joined the retailer’s extensive portfolio of some of the world’s most iconic and beloved Bath & Body Works-exclusive fragrances.

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DIGITAL DETOX: HOW DIFFICULT CAN IT BE? Does the thought of not posting a daily insta story give you anxiety? Or do you dread the little red notification every time you log onto Facebook? Shabana Adam digs into the depths of social media to find out when you know it’s time to have an online cleanse and why switching off is not as easy as it seems.

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T

here comes a point in my daily routine – usually in the late afternoon – when I’ve exhausted all my creative will for the day.

I need a time out. My sluggish mind and body, and the looming writer’s block make this very clear. But instead of getting up and going for a walk, meditating, or even just making a call to a friend, what usually ensues is a long scroll through my instagram “explore” page or a deep dive into Buzzfeed’s archives of random quizzes - I’m partial to finding out which Stranger Things character I’m most compatible with based on the fruits I like - it’s fun, meaningless, kills time, and gives me complete escapism from real life.

However, it’s still online. My own daily habits, and conversations with family and friends about their virtual experiences, got me thinking – what are the signs for when we need a break from the digital world?

Whether we like it or not, we are creatures of social media; the Arab Social Media Report 2017 found that 90 per cent of the online population in most Middle East countries use social networking sites, daily. Furthermore, GlobalWebIndex’s flagship report on the latest social media trends has revealed that digital consumers in the UAE devote on average three hours and 11 minutes to social media every day. This might be for personal use to stay in touch with family and friends, for business purposes to build a brand’s reputation, or for simple pleasures like finding the next funny meme or viral video (we just can’t get enough of those) either way, it’s clear that we have

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been well and truly infected with the social media bug, and there’s no rush for a cure anytime soon.

But what happens when all the noise gets a bit too much? For me, being in the magazine industry where a huge part of the job responsibility is your brand’s social media, switching off seems almost deviant. Yet, I’m convinced that many of us have had the urge to sign out and forget about hashtags and the perfect GIFs for a little while. I know I have.

Dilemma number one: as much as I’ve wanted to take a hiatus every now and again, there’s just something SO addictive about scrolling through your feed and taking in all the new content from your friends and followers. Which leads me to ask – why are users so afraid to step away from their digital platforms?

Tim Huttemeister, a UAE-based Senior Strategic Project Manager who also casually dabbles in fitness and lifestyle content creation on the handle @timmes, believes that

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social media can provide a sense of instant gratification and elusions from the real world, which users turn to for acceptance. “People and especially followers acknowledge you and give you confirmation once your follower base is growing,” he says. “This definitely gives you a big push in the beginning and for some even the entire time. You don't want to disappoint them. That's from a "content creator" viewpoint.

“From the "normal user" perspective, it's definitely the perfect world that you see on screen and you want to achieve as well. It's also an endless game as you usually never reach the end of the feed,” he explains. “And for some, as sad as it sounds, social media might be the only joy and positive thing during their day.”

Globally, there has been a staggering growth in social media activity. We Are Social’s newest report, Digital in 2019, revealed that social media use worldwide saw an impressive leap of nine per cent in the past year, with mobile social media users made up of 42 per cent of the planet’s population. To put things into perspective, that’s 3.48 BILLION active social media users switching on and buying into the digital realm. Imagine the amount of new conversation topics, citizen reporting, and funny memes and videos that you could be witnessing on the hour? Now, if that doesn’t give you major FOMO (fear of missing out) then I don’t know what will.

“ WHETHER ITS BELIEFS, ATTITUDES OR MATERIALISTIC POSSESSIONS, I THINK SO CIAL MEDIA HAS MORE IMPAC T TODAY THAN ANY OTHER FORM OF COMMUNICATION.” - SARA KHAN, @ITSYOURSAY

“Lets get real - life is exciting on social media,” says Sara Khan, a Geoscientist by day and a self-proclaimed “Honest AF” blogger in her down time, who goes by the handle @itsyoursay. “We humans have a tendency to distract ourselves so we don't have to constantly face our dimming realities. Isn't that why we read books, listen to music and indulge in movies? The only difference is - this is just a swipe away,” she adds.

I see some truth in this. Our generation is constantly worried about missing out, so spending time online seems to be the best way to keep up to date with everything that’s going on both close to to them and around the world. For Sara, however, their is something personable about social media that draws her attention towards it. “We love a break from routine by living through others,” she tells us.

“Their happy moments make you smile, their sadness makes you reach out and console them, their success makes you pray for them.

Even though you can't make time everyday - you're still a part of their lives. And that’s a powerful motivator that can be difficult to switch off.” fact magazine

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I want people to see. Which leads to the next big question, is your digital identity the REAL you?

This aspect of social media is also one of the negatives of having the status of ‘influencer’ or ‘content creator’. People cannot really distinguish between your media personality, and your real personality.

Often, you will be judged (and in some cases make the judgements) based on what you put out there and which parts of your life you decide to share.

Tim’s advise for keeping a balanced and responsible approach is simple: “Don’t take social media and your online identity too seriously,” he says. “I see people being hooked onto the whole "Insta Game" way too much - they'll ask you all the time who invited you to certain events, where you got that specific sneaker from and then they’ll complain that they have been ignored by brands or agencies.

“I personally don't care too much about my social media life. I enjoy it as I've met a lot of great people and some of my closest

For me, this infinite cycle of wanting to know about everyone and everything the second that it happens, could be the core reason why the majority of social media users find it difficult to disconnect. From behind a screen, you can consume ALL the gossip you want, go on an informationfinding spree, comment on posts and pictures with opinions you don’t have to justify and, essentially, be whoever you want to be for your followers.

And so, we come to dilemma number two: as much as I’d love to say sayonara to social media for days at a time, searching for cute party ideas on Instagram or checking out the latest trending topic on Twitter, and even taking a hundred different pictures using new Snapchat filters, is all part of my escapism – these are the places where I can choose and control which parts of my life 26

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“I'M PRETTY SURE SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACTS THE WAY PEOPLE BUY INTO BRANDS AND PRODUCTS. ESPECIALLY WHEN THE STORYTELLING IS RIGHT AND PERSONAL (OR PEOPLE SEE SOMETHING PERSONAL IN IT), THEY'RE DEFINITELY MORE WILLING TO BUY OR CONSUME THAT SPECIFIC PRODUCT OR BRAND.” - TIM HUTTEMEISTER, @TIMMES

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friends in the UAE through it but I always stayed true to myself and my values,” Tim adds. “Plus, my "real life" is full of joy and great experiences and challenges: I have an awesome wife I love to spend my time with, I enjoy being in the gym and have a job keeping me busy. Social media definitely comes after all of this," he admits.

Being “real” crops up more often than not in the conversation surrounding digital identity. As Sara suggests: “Stop buying into this trend of 'I’m living my best life’ and just truly be yourself. I firmly believe people who need to balance are living two lives - online and real. But this also means you have to respect the people in your lives and limit sharing sensitive information or things that can make people in your real life uncomfortable,” she says. “Be real - but don't be condescending.”

For myself and any other profession that requires keeping a constant eye on your

follower engagement and competitors' online moves, social media is a whole different arena of endless possibilities.

A decade ago, social media was just a trend. Now it’s a critical component of any business marketing strategy as well as for personal connections too. You create your own persona in a saturated world. Anyone can be anyone on social media, so why would you want to switch off from that?

Here comes dilemma number three: the honest truth is that if I want to excel in my job, social media has to be my best friend – at all times of the day (and night). Even if for a few hours, detaching from the digital world means that I could miss out on the next big story or insta opp, both personally and professionally. Final question: do we just continue to let the noise of social media in for the sake of workplace commitments?

With Expo 2020 fast-approaching and as the working environment evolves in the region, more and more employees are relying on technology and social media in

particular to stay connected. As a result, we are in a constant always-on mode. I even see this in my own social media because my posts on both work platforms and my personal accounts have a similar style, albeit within brand guidelines for work.

It’s a blurred line; work life and real life, where social media means that you are the brand and the brand is you. This might be a positive thing for those who want to stay ahead in their career game, but a negative thing for those who wish to turn off their notifications and can’t, because they are just THAT dedicated - or are they just addicted?

On the other end of the spectrum, social media isn’t all damaging. It’s an excellent place to voice opinions for causes that need attention and to reach a big audience, fast. It’s also packed full of free skills and advice on every topic you could think of – holistic wellbeing, DIY hacks, fashion updates, education empowerment, political

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movements and so much more – as well as giving you a closer, raw insight into the lives of celebrities, athletes, CEOs and other world movers and shakers for inspiration or for simple pastime. Not to mention networking sites like LinkedIn which is possibly the greatest tool for making career connections, browsing, applying and, in many cases, landing your next job.

It’s a catch 22. For some, social media sells happiness and gives the level of validation they crave. For others who want to avoid face-toface interaction, social media allows them to express their feelings without dealing with the consequences.

My truth is, I can live with it more than I can live without it. So, ultimately, only YOU will see the signs for if and when you need a digital detox. I think my time to press pause is creeping up. But first, let me choose a filter and take a quick selfie. ✤

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What would you list as the top three reasons for why people get addicted to the digital world?

Tim Huttemeister, @timmes 1. They get a view of a picture perfect (fake) world they usually don't have but want to achieve.

2. It's easy for them to communicate with and feel "close" to their favourite stars/idols which they would never get offline.

3. "Normal" people turning celebrities, i.e. the typical American story from a dishwasher to a millionaire is being spread on social media daily.

Sara Khan, @itsyoursay 1. Routine is deadly - I'm personally addicted to social media to discover things that help me break from it.

I'm genuinely surprised as to just how vibrant the UAE is, after I started heavily using social media about four years ago - and I've lived here for 12 years!

2. Another top reason is to discover the latest trends or inspirations. From fashion to food to trav-el - there is so much content that inspires us to pursue something different. It helps us evolve constantly to becoming better versions of ourselves everyday.

3. And my final reason (it may be top for some) VIDEOS! I find time escaping me once I start browsing video content. It’s just so mesmerising - I spend more time on insta videos/vlogs than Netflix!

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SOCIAL MEDIA 101 AANCHAL DUGGAL GIVES YOU THE LOWDOWN ON THE MOST POPULAR PLATFORMS IN THE DIGITAL WORLD…

Facebook

Instagram

FOUNDER(S): Mark Zuckerberg, Eduardo Saverin, Andrew McCollum, Dustin Moskovitz, Chris Hughes

FOUNDER(S): Kevin Systrom, Mike Krieger

NUMBER OF USERS: 2 billion monthly active users WHY IT’S POPULAR: If you’re anything like us, passively scrolling through your Facebook feed has manifested into a bedtime ritual you just can’t seem to shake off! Offering a fascinating milieu of friends, family, colleagues and a whole lotta memes, Facebook has successfully cemented its position at the top of the social media ladder. From insanely cute puppy videos and keeping in touch with long lost friends to getting the deets on the latest gossip in your circle and around the world- Facebook is on top of it all! With the influx of newer and cooler social media, it will be interesting to see how Facebook matches up.

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NUMBER OF USERS: 400 million daily active users

WHY IT’S POPULAR: If you’re a sucker for drool-worthy food art and FOMO inducing vacay snaps- Instagram should be right up your alley! Coming at us with a host of fitness goals, food envy, beauty hacks, travel inspo and more, Instagram presents to us an ideal image of life and society; it’s escapism at its finest. Apart from setting some unrealistic yet entertaining standards, your favourite celebs and media influencers are just a DM away. A reservoir of selfies, hashtags and filters, the photo sharing app has managed to create the perfect illusion of the world. Love it or hate it- we just can’t get enough of the ‘gram!

SOCIAL MEDIA •

Snapchat

Twitter

FOUNDER(S): Evan Spiegel, Bobby Murphy, Reggie Brown

FOUNDER(S): Jack Dorsey, Noah Glass, Biz Stone, Evan Williams

NUMBER OF USERS: 173 million daily active users

WHY IT’S POPULAR: Changing the face of the digital world, literally one filter at a time, Snapchat has introduced us to a side of social media we never knew we needed! Making communication incredibly raw and customised, Snapchat lets you control your content to a much greater extent than other platforms. But what make this app so distinguished and one of a kind are its unique and playful filters. Be it the basic dog filter or everybody’s favourite flower crown filter, documenting your life has never been this creative. Revolutionising the way we use our phones to connect within our social circles, as well as the daily world Snapchat story and news articles, Snapchat is a gift that keeps on giving and we can’t wait for every new filter that’s coming.

NUMBER OF USERS: 100 million daily active users WHY IT’S POPULAR: A haunt for intellectuals, politicians and celebrities alike, Twitter attracts unfiltered criticism, adulation as well as other miscellaneous witticisms and commentary from all walks of life. Providing us with the wider pulse of the world, the data and current events that we glean from the app in realtime are actually game-changing. A form of citizen journalism, it helps keep track of the events from normal people on the ground, all within the platform’s 140-character limit! Letting individual opinions into the global cyber-canvass, Twitter is the easiest way to join the conversation and form a sense of community. It’s also your best bet at finding different opinions and real-time info.

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Tumblr

LinkedIn

FOUNDER(S): David Karp

FOUNDER(S): Reid Hoffman, Allen Blue, Konstantin Guericke, Eric Ly, Jean-Luc Vaillant

NUMBER OF USERS: 550+ million active users

WHY IT’S POPULAR: Giving a whole new meaning to “your vibe attracts your tribe”, Tumblr makes finding your kind of people super easy and fun! The hotbed for youth activity, what makes this microblogging site so popular is its selectivity and security through obscurity. Ideal for people who are not into lengthy blogs, it lets you post short texts, multimedia, quotes and lots more about anything and everything. Featuring everything from fact to fiction, it allows you to connect with and follow people who are obsessed with the same things as you and form communities based on these interests. The best place to vent, connect and get inspired!

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NUMBER OF USERS: 500 million members WHY IT’S POPULAR: In our ferociously competitive society, establishing a professional identity can be exhausting and any help is always a welcomed sight. Thankfully for us, LinkedIn makes stepping into the professional realm more precise and fuss-free! While it may not be the most happening social media platform around, it is definitely the most important when it comes to building a professional network. A go-to service for professionals of all ages, it links employers posting jobs with job seekers posting their CVs. Offering a whole world of opportunities, LinkedIn is definitely one of the best recruitment tools around.

SOCIAL MEDIA •

Reddit

YouTube

FOUNDER(S): Steve Huffman, Alexis Ohanian

FOUNDER(S): Steve Chen, Chad Hurley, Jawed Karim

NUMBER OF USERS: 250 million users

WHY IT’S POPULAR: A clever play on the words “I read it”, Reddit is an assorted collection of subreddits representing every subject imaginable. From news, science and music to fitness and unsolved mysteries, Reddit has a thread for your every mood and intellect! The availability of an open and diverse user community has made it a safe place for users to raise attention and foster discussions on a wide range of subjects.

Feeding on people’s desire to be constantly inthe-know, it helps users achieve certain goals of viewership or simply attain answers to interesting questions. This is definitely the kind of social media platform to air out your Area 51 theory or talk about the next diet fad - basically, spending hours upon hours browsing, reading and posting!

NUMBER OF USERS: Over 1 billion users WHY IT’S POPULAR: Beauty tutorials, daily vlogging and music videos from around the world- that’s YouTube for you!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, this video sharing site must be your go-to app for all things entertainment. With over 300 hours of video uploaded to the site every minute (seriously!), it’s beyond debate that YouTube’s influence has totally changed the world. Independent creators have turned this video giant into a money-making machine by amassing huge followings and raking in a lot of moolah! YouTube’s face-to-face engagement concept has led to a whole different ball game that continues to dramatically grow and evolve. If you’ve got the subscribers then you’re doing it right!

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Pinterest

Google+

FOUNDER(S): Paul Sciarra, Evan Sharp, Ben Silbermann

FOUNDER(S): Larry Page, Sergey Brin

NUMBER OF USERS: 150 million active monthly users

NUMBER OF USERS: 111 million active users

WHY IT’S POPULAR:

WHY IT’S POPULAR:

Inspiring users to “go out and do that thing” since 2010, Pinterest‘s visual orientation has made it everybody’s favourite catalog of ideas. With your lifestyle at its core, Pinterest lets you draw inspiration from a host of pretty pictures as you ‘pin’ your way to visual nirvana! Sharing your likes and interests lets you connect with likeminded people and create a visual bookmark of everything from recipes and style inspiration to home hacks and crafts. The option of creating multiple pinboards is ideal for people who crave a little organisation!

Another social media platform where you can while away the hours, this time with a bundle of creative inspiration.

An integrated social networking platform focused on bringing all of Google together, Google+ is a more niche channel in this sea of booming media platforms. While Google+ lets you post photos and status updates to the stream and interest based communities, what makes it stand out is its ability to post unobstructed high resolution images. It also lets you implement high-quality photo editing features, which is a treat for amateur photographers and lifestyle bloggers. Staying connected is made super easy with Hangout, its video calling service that lets you talk to 10 people at once. Google+ might not be in the spotlight, but it is definitely worth your attention! ✤

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SERENITY

RADIATING FROM WITHIN

Welcome to SPA, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, where you will experience blissful, wholesome, wellness. Reconnect with a range of highly effective treatments, from relaxation massages to sensational skincare and spa rituals. Let us transport you to a serene state of spa.

+971 2 811 4357 | JSIspa@jumeirah.com | jumeirah.com/JSIspa

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• ACRONYMS

FYI, SOCIAL MEDIA IS #BAE Not hi n g s ays s o c i a l m ed i a - s av v y like a good acrony m. Abbreviat ion s go ha nd- in - h a n d w i th th e d i g i t al world wh ere t y pin g ou t a wh ole s enten ce i s j ust too u n cool . In s tea d , c a pt i on s an d h as ht ags are packed wit h eas ier (l a z i e r) ways of s ay i n g w h at yo u mean . Here are s ome of t h e f requ ent ly u s ed tex t cu lprit s …

AMA – Ask Me Anything BAE – Before Anyone Else BFF – Best Friend Forever BFN – Bye For Now BRB – Be Right Back BTW – By The Way CYL – See You Later DM – Direct Message FF – Follow Friday FOMO – Fear Of Missing Out FTW – For The Win FYI – For Your Information FWIW – For What It’s Worth FYA – For Your Amusement GTG – Got To Go GR8 – Great HBD – Happy Birthday ICYMI – In Case You Missed It IDC – I Don’t Care 36

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IDK – I Don’t Know ILY – I Love You IMO – In My Opinion IRL – In Real Life JELL – Jealous JK – Just Kidding KMT – Kiss My Teeth LOL – Laughing Out Loud LMAO – Laughing My A** Off LMK – Let Me Know MYOB – Mind Your Own Business NBD – No Big Deal NBC – Nobody Cares NVM – Never Mind NSFW – Not Safe For Work OBV – Obviously OG – Original Gangster OMG – Oh My God

OMW – On My Way OOTD – Outfit Of The Day PDA – Public Display of Affection PPL – People QOTD – Quote Of The Day ROTFL – Rolling On The Floor Laughing SMH – Shaking My Head SRLSY – Seriously TBH – To Be Honest TBT – Throwback Thursday TMI – Too Much Information TYT – Take Your Time TTYL – Talk To You Later TYVM – Thank You Very Much WTH – What The Hell YOLO – You Only Live Once YGTR – You Got That Right

TIPS & TRICKS •

DISCONNECT 5 WAYS TO SWITCH OFF

ARE YOU CONSTANTLY SCROLLING ON YOUR SMARTPHONE? YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA FEED COULD BE SPIKING YOUR STRESS LEVELS AND TAKING A TOLL ON YOUR WELLBEING. HERE ARE JUST A FEW WAYS FOR YOU TO UNPLUG AND LIVE IN THE MOMENT.

1. FOCUS: MINDFULNESS It might sound straightforward, but training your brain to stop multitasking and focus on one thing at a time can do your health wonders. This technique promotes breathing exercises found in yoga which encourages individuals to step back from their busy thoughts and emotions in order to view things from a disconnected perspective. The best (and probably ironic) thing is that you can now download mindfulness guides from online sources such as www.bemindfulonline.com.

2. CONNECT: FACE-TO-FACE Actually get up, get ready and go to see your family and friends. Yes, it sounds so simple, but more and more people have become accustomed to “checking-in” with their loved ones over a Facebook message or Insta DM. If you find yourself regularly cutting out REAL human-to-human interaction, it’s time to take a social media vacation and start making plans to meet up with the people in your life.

3. DO NOTHING: BREAK TIME Possibly the easiest decision you can make is to take a time out. Actively breaking away from posting on social media for a few days can create new breathing space whilst knowing that your account is still visible and searchable even when you’re not posting.

Take this a step further and deactivate your account as a temporary solution to pressing pause on your daily screen time.

4. SILENCE: HIDE IT When meeting up with friends, turn off notification or better yet, put your phone on silent, and leave it in your bag. No bag?

Turn your phone over so you can’t see the screen. We’ve all got that one friend who keeps their phone attached to them like a glove – we might even be that friend – but this is seriously rude. Fight the urge to check emails and messages, and to insta your food (that might be a little harder), you’re guaranteed more good convo and laughs this way.

5. CLEANSE: HOLIDAY Yes, posting on social media when you’re off on your travels is an absolute must – why would you not want to show off the beach you’re lounging on when your besties are all doing the nine-to-five grind?

The solution: plan a holiday that actually allows for down-time and detaching from your devices – for example, health retreats, wildlife trips, volunteering days, spa vacays and more – you can take all the pics you want and post them when you’re back. The key is to LIVE IN THE MOMENT. ✤ fact magazine

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Hustlers

Highlights

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

Led by an ageing dancer and an ambitious single mother, a group of strippers lie, steal and hustle dozens of wealthy men when the industry reaches its lowest point during the late-2000s financial crisis. What follows is Elizabeth, a journalist, covering the story for a magazine and interviewing one of the ringleaders as she tries to figure out what went wrong.

DIRECTOR: Lorene Scafaria CAST: Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B, Lili Reinhart

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Bringing together Jennifer Lopez, Constance Wu, Lili Reinhart, Keke Palmer and Cardi B, Hustlers has got to be one of the biggest releases of the year. Based on New York magazine’s 2015 article The Hustlers at Scores by Jessica Pressler, the film is girl power at its finest as a group of strippers turn the tables on their customers. A real-life revenge tale, the plot follows a determined single mother and an ageing dancer, that lead a crew of savvy former strip club employees who come together to get back at their Wall Street clients. As Lopez teaches Wu’s newbie character her moves on the pole, the women decide to take advantage of a few of their clients and ultimately take it too far. Unlike earlier stripper-centric movies, Hustlers is adapted and directed by a woman, Lorene Scafaria. Offering an empathetic narrative on men and women as well as our gender roles, the film will give you something to think about, while having you perched on the edge of your seat.

Midnight Traveller

“

Offering an empathetic narrative on men and women as well as our gender roles, the film will give you something to think about, while having you perched on the edge of your seat.

When the Taliban puts a bounty on Afghan director Hassan Fazili’s head, he is forced to flee the country with his wife and two young daughters. Fazili shares their uncertain journey as they face dangers seeking asylum as well as captures the love shared between a family on the run.

– Hustlers DIRECTOR: Hassan Fazili CAST: Hassan Fazili, Nargis Fazili, Zahra Fazili

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Encapsulating a journey spread across several years and numerous detention centres, Midnight Traveller is a film the world needs right now. Shifting away from the way of their predecessors, the documentary deals with the plight of asylum seekers with a vulnerability and intimacy that has never been seen on the screen before. Weighed down by a shroud of uncertainty, the film follows filmmaker Hassan Fazili and his family as they are forced to flee Afghanistan, owing to the Taliban’s bounty on the director’s head. Giving a voice to a global refugee crisis, Midnight Traveler finally lets refugees tell their own story, while imparting a modern-day message that deserves to be as widely seen as possible. Go watch it for its significant message as well as heartwarming moments and unfiltered emotions.

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ENTERTAINMENT •

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

FICTION

The Dearly Beloved

By Cara Wall

POP

PUNK-FOLK

Lover

By Frank Turner

By Taylor Swift

Calling all Swifties! Two years after the release of her chart-topping album, Reputation, Taylor Swift is making a comeback. And though she claims that the real Taylor can’t come to the phone right now, her seventh studio album and first release under Republic Records, focuses on just as much romance as its predecessors. However, Lover is much more upbeat and technicolour than her last release. Featuring Brendon Urie, “Me” is the epitome of a Taylor Swift lead single. A song about embracing your individuality and really owning it, the song will make you feel better about yourself, with its infectious pop hook being the momentary escape we all need.

Showcasing an exuberant pop sound, the Lover era ushers in self-reflection as well as raw emotions. Continuing to spread self-love and positivity, “You Need to Calm Down” takes on the internet trolls and haters. Using a refreshing and promising sound, Swift reflects on everything that is wrong with social media, while supporting a breathtaking argument. The catchy pop package delivers an important message while blessing our creative senses. One of pop the scene’s most enduring stars, Taylor Swift combines lyrics, videos and even red carpet outfits to share her life with her fans. Brimming with Swiftian Easter egg hunts and some self-reflective masterpieces, Lover is bound straight for sale success.

No Man’s Land

A beautifully melodious ode to women in history, Frank Turner’s No Man’s Land is a true work of art. Incorporating a traditional folk approach, Turner shares stories that are not being told right now but need to be heard. The eighth studio album by the English singer-songwriter tells the tales of important, inspirational women throughout history who don’t receive the recognition they deserve.

One of the most influential musicians in American history, “Sister Rosetta” talks about the unparalleled Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Using some guitar parts from her own back catalog, the heartfelt single is unlike anything we have ever heard before. Encapsulating her work and spirit in a stunningly respectful manner, Turner is treading uncharted territory.

Combining his love for history and songwriting, Frank Turner is colliding two worlds that have always been separate from each other. Bringing to life history’s forgotten women, No Man’s Land shifts away popular culture and gives his music a whole new edge. We’re in awe.

The Greenwich Village church they belong to connects two very different couples, Charles and Lily, and Nan and James. Set against the backdrop of a changing New York City, the story follows these two couples through decades of love and friendship, jealousy and understanding, forgiveness and commitment. Surrounded by turbulent times, the couples forge unimaginable paths through their evolving relationships, each struggling with uncertainty, heartbreak, and happiness.

A total page-turner!

NON-FICTION

Underland: A Deep Time Journey

By Robert Mcfarlane A soul-stirring voyage into the planet’s past and future, Underland: A Deep Time Journey by Robert Mcfarlane will change the way you view the world.

Narrated with great lyricism and power, the Underland reflects on our relationship with darkness, burial and the surface of both mind and place.

Mcfarlane talks about everything from the birth of the universe to a posthuman future, from the prehistoric art of Norwegian Sea caves to the blue depths of the Greenland ice cap. The unsettling questions and remarkable writing are absolute food for thought!

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The spa, dubbed La Ville Relaxation Suites, includes two beautiful treatment rooms that offer a range of bespoke treatments.

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THE BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE

WE'VE FOUND A CHIC AND LUXURIOUS HOTEL WITH GREAT DINING OPTIONS RIGHT IN THE HEART OF DUBAI. FACT’S ANGELA BEITZ CHECKS IN…

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et in the very cool City Walk neighbourhood, La Ville Hotel & Suites, is a chic boutique hotel that’s completely in sync with the urban living concept and boutique hotel experience that is becoming a much more popular option these days. Part of the Autograph Collection, this distinctive low rise property celebrates stylish, iconic architecture and provides a sociable setting for guests with excellent dining options and a wonderful spa with incredible views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai's skyline.

The lobby is large but welcoming, a very minimalist space with high ceilings. Our check in is very friendly and smooth and we are shown to our King Premium Guest Rooms with views of the Burj Khalifa. The rooms are very boutique (as one would expect) a beautiful space with all the modern trimmings, with a focus on neutral, serene colours, and a small lounge and desk. The bathrooms are beautiful with spacious a standalone tub, marble finishes, a walk-in shower and lovely products. There is also a very large mirror with large lighting which is perfect for doing make-up. The bed is unbelievably comfortable and there is a nespresso machine and tea making facilities too.

The hotel’s infinity pool on the rooftop is a main attraction of the hotel and boasts stunning views of the Dubai skyline and City Walk itself. You could easily spend the entire day here in one of the cabanas soaking up the sun. Even if you aren't staying at the hotel, there are many offers on around the pool so be sure to check them out.

The spa, dubbed La Ville Relaxation Suites, includes two beautiful treatment rooms that offer a range of bespoke treatments and express services. This small but beautiful spa is well worth a visit and on our stay we indulge in the De-Stress

candle massage from Neom. The Neom de-stress candle massage is the ultimate wellbeing experience for both body and mind.

It’s a multi faceted treatment with the shea butter and essential oils candle designed to treat your skin and evoke your senses, the massage itself de-stresses and soothes your body while the meditation and reflexology element relaxes your mind. The blend of natural ingredients not only feel great on the skin but the essential oils aroma that fills the room throughout the treatment has an instant calming affect. Guided meditation via a prerecording by a Neom wellness expert was synchronised in real time by the application of an intensive mood enhancing blended essential oil (wild mint and mandarin plus six other essential oils) to my pulse points (temples, behind my ears and wrists).

The meditation was easy to follow with simple breathing exercises and coaching on tension release and negativity. There’s also a gym with all the equipment you can think of should you want to work out during your stay.

The hotel offers five unique dining concepts. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Chival, focuses on organic and thoughtfullysourced produce. Breakfast here is a hearty and delectable affair with a fairly large continental selection to choose from. Set within light and casual space, this is great for whatever whets your appetite and the staff are lovely .If you’re looking for a more intimate and sophisticated setting, head to Graze, where they specialise in prime cuts and seafood offerings. This is a really great restaurant and the food is based on traditional dishes fact magazine

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with an Arabic twist. For relaxed vibes and a breathtaking view of the Dubai skyline, head right up to LookUp, the pool-side bar at La Ville, which has a fun and relaxed feel and excellent views. Set separate from the hotel is the standalone Grapeskin restaurant, an industrial-looking bar and kitchen space that blends right into City Walk and was absolutely buzzing on the night we visited. There is also the Lobby Cafe, open 24 hours Open 24 hours where you can grab coffee and a light snack at any time of the day. The room service menu is also excellent so you certainly won't be going hungry.

This is a perfect spot for a staycation if you like to be amongst the action with shopping, dining and relaxing allin-one. Just a stone’s throw away or a great option for both business and leisure travellers, La Ville Hotel & Suites, City Walk should definitely be on your radar for a comfy staycation! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MARRIOTT.COM/HOTELS/TRAVEL/ DXBLV-LA-VILLE-HOTEL-AND-SUITES-CITY-WALKDUBAI-AUTOGRAPH-COLLECTION/ OR CALL (0)4 403 3111 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 42

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• SOCIETY

#SEPHORA #MIDDLE #EAST #SLUMBER #PARTY Bigger, better and bolder than ever! Sephora Middle East unveiled its newly restyled flagship store at The Dubai Mall by throwing an in-store Slumber Party followed by a takeover of Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa. The all-new 812 square meter beauty destination features an improved tech savvy customer experience that reflects the next-generation of the continuously evolving Sephora brand. The in-store Slumber Party pampered brand lovers, loyal customers, along with media and influencers with a night of fun and glamour. The store was transformed into a stylish venue with irresistible Instagrammable corners, disruptive F&B, and a trendy DJ set by @MegatronicUK. Guests were surprised with the engaging dance performances of @RollDXB, a local roller-skating community, who were dressed in the brand’s signature stripes and performed in different areas of the mall.

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PARADISE PERFECT WHEN LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY IN BAHRAIN, YOU WANT COMFORTABLE, HASSLE-FREE AND RELAXING – A PLACE THAT GOES ALL-OUT TO CATER TO YOUR EVERY NEED. THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN OFFERS JUST THAT, AND SO MUCH MORE. FACT EXPERIENCED THE CLUB LEVEL FACILITIES TO FIND OUT WHAT MAKES THIS PROPERTY THE IDEAL WEEKEND HOTSPOT FOR UAE GUESTS LOOKING FOR A QUICK ESCAPE…

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ocated on a private beach on the island’s north coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain blends urban sophistication and resort-style luxury. The tranquil paradise is mere minutes from Manama city centre where Bahrain’s rich culture and heritage comes alive. For those who want a summer staycation that does not involve leaving the hotel much, look no further than The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. A real piece of secluded bliss with a beautiful outdoor pool, a convenient indoor pool, a pristine private beach, a majestic Turkish Hammam and spa with plunge pools, steam room and sauna, and a sports club with fully-equipped gymnasiums (there’s a ladies only too), a squash court, tennis courts, and, for the little ones, the Ritz Kids Club offering numerous safe and exciting activities – there are numerous reasons why this is the ideal place for your next weekend getaway. Let us tell you a little more about this picturesque resort…

SUITE LIFE Accommodation at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain includes 31 Suites, 42 Club Level Rooms and 15 stunning threebedroom seafront villas with private pools, 24-hour butler service and direct beach access. Guests visiting on a long weekend or short break should opt for the spacious Club Room. Highlights include a generous space with a huge separate marble bathroom decked out in a soaking bathtub, rainforest shower, terry cloth bathrobes and comfortable slippers, luxurious Asprey brand bath amenities, an endless supply of towels, hair dryer and lighted shaving and make-up mirror, and even a 15-inch flat-screen TV in the bathroom mirror – excellent for when you’re taking a long soak in the tub after a day of exploring the resort! There’s a 42-inch LED TV with premium channels available and even a Bose iPod docking station for your personal use. Floor to ceiling windows offer views of the glittering Arabian Gulf and resort grounds. The practical design yet airy feel to the room made it very comfortable and enjoyable. You’ll easily sink into the plush feather bed for a peaceful night’s sleep; happily get up and make a tea or coffee using the in-room facilities (there’s even a Nespresso machine), and you can personalise your time using the iPod docking station, not to mention that there’s a great number of channels available and the high-speed internet throughout the hotel is fast indeed!

SERVICE REFINED There’s no denying that having a few added personal touches to your hotel stay is always a welcomed effort, and the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain sure does its utmost best for Club level guests. Upon arrival, we were escorted to a personalised check-in desk on 46

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the 7th floor. Aside from this, club level guests also receive privileged access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge; a gorgeous and elegant space made up with stylish seating, dining tables, comfy sofas with a TV area, and, of course, a buffet station where a generous breakfast, light snacks, hors d’oeuvres and evening desserts and cordial is served, complimentary for Club Level guests.

What made experiencing the Club Lounge all the more special was having attentive service and friendly welcomes from all the staff – it is definitely the people that elevated our stay.

WELLNESS WONDER Expect exceptional luxury and relaxation at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Not only are the treatments incredible, using world-famous Natura Bisse and ESPA products. At the heart of the spa is the lovely thalassotherapy pool with its healing properties of natural waters rich in minerals vital to wellbeing.

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This is the kind of place that refreshes your soul, partly accredited to wonderful therapists such as Tatsiana who was the epitome of professional. Listening to all of our concerns, she worked wonders using vigorous and gentle techniques alongside the hot stones to help tackle a dull headache that has built up as a result of tight shoulders. We fell into a relaxed slumber and left with a lighter and more rejuvenated spirit. As far as staycations go, you’re going to be well looked after at the spa!

FOOD FINESSE There’s a lot to celebrate (and brag about) when it comes to dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. The resort offers 12 international restaurants, lounges and bars which literally cater to every palate. Standouts include the award-winning Mexican eatery Cantina Kahlo where we savoured some of the freshest, table-side guacamole and authentic street food delights like tamales and sopes as well as the delectable churros; then there’s the famous Nirvana which is named so aptly considering the food journey here is like being in complete Nirvana – Indian delicacies made with the most aromatic flavours, the biryani and the butter chicken are both a must-try. When your Italian cravings kick in, Primavera is the place to take a seat. Everything from their Parmagiana to the tortellini, the seafood and risotto, are absolutely mouthwatering.

What we weren’t prepared for, however, was the best cheesecake of our lives. No exaggeration. Get comfy at The Ritz Gourmet Lounge and order the cheesecake with a rose latte – you won’t regret it. Needless to say, food is something you absolutely don’t have to worry about during your staycation! ✤ 48

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Summer Retreat Unlock a world of summer adventures and embrace the best our luxury beachfront resort has to offer.

Experience world-renowned shopping just steps away, adventures at sea on our Pearl 1, award-winning fine dining and more. Whatever your taste, be inspired and rewarded everywhere you go.

The package includes: Deluxe room accommodation, up to 25% savings for reward members and daily breakfast in La Med; up to 15% savings for non-reward members.

Sea Adventures Aboard The Pearl 1 Explore, discover and take to the sea on our resort’s Pearl 1 during your visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Known as the land of the two seas with its 33 islands and azure turquoise waters, enjoy daily excursions that truly excite exploring hidden enclaves, the kingdom’s coastline, dolphin watching and more.

Excursions are available for 3 to 6 hour periods for up to 6 passengers and include your choice of a picnic lunch, along with bottled water and soft beverages. Trips are subject to weather and the tidal conditions.

Advance reservations required. Three hours: BHD 150. Six hours: BHD 300.

“Let’s Chaat” at Nirvana Thursdays to Saturdays, Lunch 12pm to 3pm; Dinner 7pm to 11.30pm.

Join in as the culinary team brings you popular Indian street food to the table. Welcome the simple refinement and comfort of home cooking this summer season and savor the harmony of textures, flavours and aromas of Indian street delicacies including favorites like Aloo Tikki, Murg Chatpatta, Channa Chaat, Sev-Murmura Chaat and more. A la carte

Chef’s Table Experience at Primavera Daily, 12pm to 3pm; 7pm to 11pm.

Enjoy a sumptuous five-course Chef’s Table menu especially prepared by the dedicated chef. The indulgent set menu includes fried eggplant with cherry tomato and smoked ricotta cheese, homemade Bolognese tortellini, hammour with Sicilian eggplant caponata, lamb fillet with herb crust, green peas, sautéed mushrooms and fondant potato and fruit and vegetable minestrone with yogurt sorbet. BD29 per person.

“Viva La Vida” Brunch Fiesta September 14, 12noon to 4pm The colours of the Mexican flag will come alive at Cantina Kahlo for Mexican Independence Day. Join the brunch fiesta featuring traditional dishes, live stations, irresistible sweets and festive décor. BD23 with soft beverages and BD36.5 with select beverages.

THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA OFFERS

Lift & Firm Detox Body Treatment BD80 | 60 minutes Get glowing all summer long with our unique 60-minute lift and firm detox treatment. Start your session with a full body brush to remove dead skin cells, followed by a detoxifying salt and seaweed scrub. The soothing session then ends with a therapeutic body massage for a complete state of relaxation and elevation of the mind, body and soul. As a bonus, purchase any three Lift & Firm treatments and receive one with our compliments.

Summer Inhibit Facial by Nature Bisse BD90 | 75 minutes Minimise wrinkles without using micro-injections with this lifting and expression line correcting treatment.

Thanks to its powerful revitalising action and effective filling effect, this professional lifting not only diminishes expression lines and corrects the signs of aging but also achieves extraordinarily firm and hydrated skin.

GO: CALL 17558 6868 OR VISIT WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/EN/HOTELS/MIDDLE-EAST/BAHRAIN FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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#YAS #MALL #CELEBRATES #EID #AL #ADHA #WITH #CULTURAL #PERFORMANCES Yas Mall, the largest mall in Abu Dhabi, honoured the UAE Year Of Tolerance with globally inspired roaming performances. A joyous celebration and bringing together of cultures from around the world, a variety of countries were represented throughout the four-day holiday. Residents and visitors seeking world-class shopping, entertainment and dining, were seen at Yas Mall, enjoying performances from China, Russia, India, Brazil, Japan, Spain, Egypt and even the UAE.

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MALDIVIAN MUSE

RECOGNISED AS A PARADISAL HONEYMOON DESTINATION, THE MALDIVES IS MORE THAN JUST POWDER WHITE SAND AND CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS TEEMING WITH MARINE LIFE. FACT’S DAVID TAPLEY SPENT FOUR DAYS AT THE BEAUTIFUL COCO BODU HITHI RESORT ON THE NORTH MALE ATOLL, BUT RATHER THAN TAKING TO THE WAVES FOR SNORKELLING AND MARINE ADVENTURES, HIS FEET WERE PLANTED FIRMLY ON LAND.

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ur visit to the Maldives coincided with a residency by acclaimed Chef Colin Clague who avid readers will know as the Executive Chef of Rüya Dubai. The culinary adventure at the stunning Coco Bodu Hithi Resort included a masterclass in which we learned to make Rüya’s signature Levrek. A dish of sea bass sashimi with mustard, apple, and shaved radish (the key is a cold plate and top quality fish). The informal masterclass taught us the basics as we assisted in bringing Turkish cuisine to the shores of Coco Bodu Hithi.

The island itself represents a slice of paradise with its reef fringed waters, palm tree flanked beaches, and memorable Maldivian sunsets we were delighted to play the role of castaways, albeit with a somewhat luxurious slant, while exploring the small island.

Offering a number of accommodation options and a total of 100 villas, the picture-postcard expectation of the Maldives would usually involve an over-water villa but we’d highly suggest considering the Island Villa as an alternative.

Offering direct access to the ocean via an exclusive patch of the private beach, the island villas are much larger, clocking in at a more than generous 188sqm. The ideal island retreat,

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DESTINATION DINING

these open-plan villas encompass a spacious master bedroom featuring a comfortable kingsized bed, a sunken living area with wrap around couch and flat-screen television. Plus separate WC and shower areas. In the middle of the space lies a deep circular bathtub which is almost as appealing as the private pool.

The pool provides a more expansive body of water than expected and represents more than just a space to plunge. Boasting a depth and length that allows guests the chance to actually to swim. Located within a courtyard planted with lush vegetation, the first of two outdoor areas that flank the villa blends seamlessly into the surrounding jungle where fruit pats flap overhead and lizards dart about in search of shade. A pair of sun loungers, an elevated daybed situated over the pool on a raised dais and an outdoor

shower complete the picture of privacy. When compared to the over-water villas, the pool in these island villas is not overlooked, making it a preferential option for those in search of complete isolation.

A beachfront terrace includes a small deck that bridges the area between vegetation and sand and affords glimpses of the turquoise ocean through the shaded tree-line, while presenting direct access to the beach and its warm shallow waters filled with blacktip reef sharks and skittish crabs.

With pretty thatched roofs, each villa has been designed using traditional Maldivian materials which add a rustic simplicity to the charming castaway feel. Yet a sense of luxury prevails with guests’ needs easily catered for in a villa that you’ll most likely not want to leave for the duration of your stay.

Six restaurants and bars ensure that Coco Bodu Hithi encourages guests to partake in a culinary journey around the island during the course of their stay. Dining options include elevated wine lofts or upon wooden platforms suspended above the waves while watching the sun sink below the horizon. Coco Bodu Hithi represents the epitome of destination dining with a number of cuisines represented.

The international buffet at Air overlooks the tranquil infinity pool, where blue waters blend with both the ocean and the sky to create an unforgettable colour palette.

Sushi and sashimi come from the small but impressive sushi bar at Tsuki. While finedining restaurant Stars boasts unrivalled views of the night sky, which if you dine on a clear day will likely leave you awe-struck.

Latitude is the place to go for light bites and poolside snacks - think salads, sandwiches and pizzas accompanied by a cheeky cocktail (or two).

A twice-weekly beachside BBQ is offered at Breeze, allowing guests to dine on fresh seafood with their toes in the sand. Or for those looking to embrace true Maldivian privacy and exclusivity, in-villa dining is offered. Complete with floating breakfast trays for the ultimate Instagram snap.

Our preference for dining would be seafood spot Aqua. Fully embracing the elemental name and the theme of water, the menu usually revolves around shellfish and sunsets but the night we dine re-connects us with Chef Colin Clague for a specially curated six-course menu of Anatolian flavours.

Having worked as part of the opening team at Dubai’s Burj Al Arab and high-end Japanese izakaya concept Zuma, Clague’s penchant for flavour and quality ingredients is enviable and we’re impressed at the consistency of the dishes and how they’re identical in taste to their Dubai counterparts, despite the notorious difficulties surrounding the sourcing of ingredients in the Maldives. The menu boasted six of Rüya’s most popular dishes including 300-day grain-fed beef with a robust Turkish coffee and isot rub, the moreish filo-wrapped feta cheese Borek and (our personal favourite), Firin Sutlaç - a traditional Anatolian rice pudding enhance via sweet lokum and the subtle use of rose. fact magazine

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SPA

Located on a wooden boardwalk that seemingly hovers above the calm waters of the Indian Ocean that is alive with turtles and stingrays, lies the Coco Spa. Six overwater pavilions make for soothing treatment rooms for both individuals and couples and provide the ideal location to focus on wellbeing and selfrenewal. The glass floors within the treatment rooms add a nice touch and the underwater world with its abundance of marine life makes for a serene visual to accompany massage rituals and beautifying body therapies. The Spa area also features a sauna and steam room, yoga studio and a small but adequate fitness centre. Again, privacy is a priority and all spa treatments are also offered in-villa to ensure complete comfort and discretion for guests.

LEISURE

Dotted around the perimeter of the sandy island is the water sports centre where complimentary kayaks and snorkelling equipment can be used to navigate the crystal clear waters.

Motorised water sports such as jet-skiing wake-boarding and catamaran sailing are offered at an additional fee. The dive centre is a hub of activity and is frequented by most visitors to the island for both PADI certification and excursions. For Coco Bodu Hithi is renowned for its spectacular and wellpreserved house reef, home to fascinating coral caverns filled with colourful fish.

Tennis courts, a meeting room, small boutique, and the marine biology centre also feature prominently amongst the sandy pathways of the island. The beauty of a resort like Coco Bodu Hithi is accessibility. A brief speedboat ride brings guests to the pristine island paradise from Malé. With so many resorts in the Maldives vying for the attention of holidaymakers, the ease of transit is a make or break decision when it comes to choosing a resort. Combine this with the flawlessly appointed villas and eclectic dining options, staying at Coco Bodu Hithi is a no brainer. ✤ 54

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GO: VISIT WWW.COCOCOLLECTION.COM/ EN/BODU_HITHI FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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LONDON HERITAGE

MEETS ORIENTAL FLAIR IF TH ERE’S ONE CI T Y I N TH E WORL D T HAT KN OW S HOW TO M E R G E HI S TO R Y A N D LUXU RY ALL I N ONE, I T I S D E F I NI TE LY TH E B R I T IS H C A P I TA L, LO N D O N. C L A S S IC E N G L IS H ELEG AN CE B L E ND S WI TH CONTE M P ORA R Y, T HO U G HT FU L S E R V IC E AT T HE M A NDA R IN ORIE NTAL H Y D E PA RK, LOCATE D B E TWE EN G LO R IO U S R OYA L PA R KL A N D A N D T HE B UZ Z OF CENTRA L KNI G H TSB RI D G E. FACT CH EC KS I N FO R A S TAY T HAT HA S U S IN FAT UAT E D FROM TH E M OM E NT WE STE P OF F TH E B U S Y C I T Y S T R E E T A N D I N TO T HE B E AU T IFU L E NTRA NCE OF T HE I CO N IC HOT E L…

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alking through the very doors that the likes of Winston Churchill, the Queen of England and many other prominent world figures have stepped through really feels like a journey of discovery. This is the iconic Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London; a building that speaks to the very fabric of the English capital’s architecture, history and deep heritage. It is where traditionally-dressed bellman in red coats and top hats greet you with warm smiles and sincere wishes for the day - reminding guests of the oldworld, classic English charm that so many visitors are looking for in London. In fact, pleasantries are plenty and welcoming as the staff at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London all carry this same graceful approach to dealing with guests. In a bustling city during peak summer season, this is a first impression that we applaud.

Housed in a 117-year-old landmark building, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London reopened its doors in April 2019 after a restoration of its guest rooms and suites, including two newly created expansive penthouse suites. Conveying signature Mandarin touches, the London property boasts distinctive design and a strong sense of place, with both local elements and oriental flair meeting to create intuitive service that is as reflective of its British roots as it is synonymous with the brand’s Far East charisma.

Walk into the lobby and admire the understated elegance of a reception area that feels so much like walking into an old friend’s home. At check-in, we’re a little early and are shown to the very sophisticated Mandarin Bar for complimentary mocktails - a nice gesture by the MO team to start off our stay.

SUITE TEMPTATIONS Instantly, you will recognise that the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is not doing things by halves – all 181 guest rooms and suites are now more luxurious and comfortable than ever before, with art deco-inspired features including carefully curated artworks and custom-designed furniture. There are too many nooks and details for us to capture for the ‘gram and we’re completely in zen mode when lounging in our Knightsbridge Suite.

It’s no wonder that the space feels so inviting and effortless as the interior is a result of internationally renowned designer, Joyce Wang’s meticulous skills. She has overseen the redesign of all guest rooms and suites, along with the creation of the hotel’s new Penthouses, taking inspiration from the peaceful parkside location, as well as the glamour of the early 20th century’s Golden Age of travel.

The suite is the size of a luxury apartment, designed with an airy, creative approach where space has been used practically and stylishly. Thoughtful touches with iconic

decor like innovative lighting, are used to remind guests of the unique themes. These beautiful suites feature a generous living room with a velvet sofa, a reading chair and a mirrored coffee table.The striking glass chandelier, gilded mirror artwork and hand tufted carpets and rugs reflect the beauty of nearby leafy Hyde Park.

With a design inspired by the 20th century’s Golden Age of travel, these spacious suites provide a high level of luxury. Each lavish suite has a curated library of books by Mayfair publishers, Heywood Hill for guests to enjoy (we found a few by one of our favourite travel writers, Bill Bryson).

Featuring views of buzzing Knightsbridge, this suite offers a sense of comfort and understated luxury. The en-suite bathroom is one of those that you would dream of having in your own home; elegantly fashioned from Volakas marble with a frieze made from Palisandro Bleu marble and twin vanity units as well as a huge rainforest shower. More than ideal for a group of friends, a couple or even a young family, who need their own space and mirror for makeup or grooming.

Space is no issue here. A separate walk-in wardrobe is situated next to the living room whilst cupboard and closet space is abundant in the bedroom and living room too.

However, it was in the details that we found the true essence of the Mandarin Oriental brand’s excelled service shine through.

Plug sockets are neatly tucked away near both sides of the bed so there’s no arguing over who gets to charge their devices; in every suite, guests will find a host of special additions ranging from yoga mats for private practice, GHD hair straighteners, Nespresso coffee makers, his and her Miller Harris bathroom amenities and Jo Hansford hair products. We even receive complimentary amenities in the form of chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of bubbly during the stay - it’s all about the small added touches.

WORLD-CLASS DINING If food is your forte, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has it all to make your stay the most exciting for every palate. All eyes are on the eclectic dining destinations which include the only London venue by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud, Bar Boulud, the inspirational gastronomy of Heston Blumenthal at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, and quintessentially British, fact magazine

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The Roseberry for all-day dining and afternoon tea, alongside the magnificent Mandarin Bar. As far as food goes, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is bringing its A-game to the city’s luxury culinary scene.

Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast where an extensive (and very delicious) menu includes everything from eggs benedict to fresh juices, fluffy French toast, pastries galore and even weekly changing specials plus Chinese and Japanese breakfast menus including cantonese dim sum and miso soup amongst other delicacies. Healthy options are aplenty with granola parfait, porridge and oats, egg whites and more to choose from.

We’d highly recommend going down for breakfast between 9.30am-10.30am and either sitting on the gorgeous patio outside or indoors by the window. Why? Because these are the best spots from where to view the liveried royal guards trotting by in formation with Hyde Park as a background - a truly British experience.

For dinner, we head to the acclaimed Bar Boulud and are very impressed with the mid-week crowd. The atmosphere is abuzz with diners when we visit – somebody celebrating a birthday, colleagues grabbing drinks after work, couples enjoying an intimate meal and families letting their taste buds explore new dishes for the evening. Our waiter for the evening, Jon Luca, is one of the reasons why the whole dining experience was an exceptional one. Friendly, accommodating of our dietary requirements and very knowledgeable on the menu, his forthcoming nature was appreciated.

Bar Boulud is a stylish bistro and wine bar specialising in seasonal, rustic French cooking. Its relaxed ambience and fabulous cuisine has won plaudits from critics and diners alike. Incorporating two large connecting rooms, the restaurant features stunning design points such as an impressive zinc topped bar and a sleek open kitchen.

Classic materials such as wood, leather and cork add a contemporary touch. As well as the main restaurant, guests have the option of dining at the charcuterie counter where they can watch the chefs at work.

It’s simple dishes like the burrata cheese, cherry tomatoes and rocket pesto that remind us why freshness and flavour don’t have to be over-indulgent ingredients but rather quality is what matters. This is indeed a creamy burrata that we devour in minutes - Jon Luca’s recommendation of course (and a little of his Italian roots). The mezze is a great mix of baba ganoush, hummus, tzatziki lavash and socca chips - the perfect sharing dish to get conversation going. The Lobster Roll: Cornish lobster, confit lemon tarragon mayonnaise and brioche bun is a little bit of a revelation and a dish that seafood lovers should absolutely order. Next, the grilled sea bass, harrisa marinated peach Freekeh rice, spring onion is a dish that will please even the most discerning palate with its different textures and tastes. The restaurant is famed for its meat offerings with the pan-seared 12oz ribeye, 6oz hanger steak and range of juicy burgers taking centre stage. fact magazine

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We love that the menu is a good manageable size with enough options to please all dietary requirements without straying too far from the original dish. For those who would love to savour a glass of their finest liquid concoctions, ask for the head sommelier for his recommendations or let the talented barman whip up something flavourful. Service is at the level of what’s to be expected at a venue that belongs to a Michelin-Starred chef – everyone is clued up on the food and eager to make recommendations. Professional yet personable - Bar Boulud epitomises everything we love about London, and everything we love about good food.

TIME TO RELAX New York designer Adam D. Tihany, has overseen the redesign of the next-generation Spa. In keeping with the fresh new look, the extensive spa menu has also been enhanced to include exclusive partnerships with some of the most sought-after health and wellness experts in the world. The new spa features 13 individual treatments rooms, an Oriental Suite with two massage beds and a Rasul water temple, a room designed for traditional ASANTE Chinese Medicine consultations and treatments and a Bastien Gonzalez Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio – the first of its kind in the UK. Their is also a well-equipped gym and a lovely indoor pool to while away the hours.

If walls could talk, this established hotel would have many stories to tell. The building was commissioned in the late 1880s however construction was initially delayed due to fears that its height would cast a shadow over the Serpentine. It finally opened in 1889 as an exclusive block of apartments for affluent bachelors, before opening as a hotel, with its own private Royal Entrance, in 1902. Since then, many honoured guests have passed through the hotel, and for several years after the Second World War it was the headquarters of the SAS. Glamorous parties and dance classes by the venerable Madame Vacani – who taught HRH Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret to dance – have been held in the ballroom. Sir Winston Churchill lived in the hotel for a while and was known to offer room service waiters two cigars in return for the delivery of an early breakfast. Many of these momentous past events can be viewed in more detail in the newly created Historical Journey Exhibition on permanent display in the hotel.

There is nothing we love more than hospitality that so flawlessly exceeds our expectations. The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London did just that and then some - luxury living at its peak. ✤

GO: CALL +4420 7235 2000 OR VISIT WWW. MANDARINORIENTAL.COM/LONDON/HYDE-PARK/ LUXURY-HOTEL FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 60

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• GLOBETROTTER

CONTEMPORARY

LUXURY

LUCAS RAVEN TRAVELLED TO MANDARIN ORIENTAL’S FLAGSHIP IN HONG KONG WHO HAVE LAUNCHED FOUR CURATED EXCURSIONS TO SHOWCASE HONG KONG’S DIVERSITY, GUIDED BY LOCAL EXPERTS AND TASTE-MAKERS, OFFERING AN INSIGHTFUL VIEW OF THE CITY.

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GLOBETROTTER •

Typically don’t advocate traveling for the perfect Instagram shot (and I don’t think it should be the only reason to visit Hong Kong) – but while you’re at it, you may as well head to some of the most photographic spots in the city with a professional photographer walking you through the ins and outs of the busy, yet scenic streets.

From Sky Terrace at the Peak all the way to the Big Buddha, this experience covers everything photogenic about Hong Kong.

Accommodating up to two guests, the half-day tour is priced at HKD 3,000 (four hours) and the full-day tour at HKD 5,000 (seven hours).

ENLIGHTENED WALKS

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he hotel’s unparalleled location in Central offers easy access to this bustling metropolis and while each district in Hong Kong has its own cultural charm, the area dates back to the city’s colonial era and is where many historic landmarks still stand today alongside modern attractions.

THE FOUR CURATED TOUR OPTIONS INCLUDE:

URBAN PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCES

This photographic journey captures the spirit of Hong Kong through a camera lens with one of the region’s top travel photographers.

Gain insights into architecture and geometry or document the city’s unique street life. Guests will also learn about perspective, shadows and movement, urban composition and background.

Led by a resident filmmaker, this tour is tailored for guests looking to learn enlightening facts, figures and trivia, together with fascinating observations into the lives of Hong Kong’s seven million inhabitants.

Despite being the world's most visited city, the most Googled question about Hong Kong is: What country does it belong to? It's surprising because the answer isn't as simple as you think. With its own money, passport, immigration channels and legal system, Hong Kong isn't quite a part of China, but with Chinese flags flying from government buildings, well, and there’s the Chinese government appointing new officials to run the city, it isn't fully independent either.

Officially, the answer to this question is China. However, unofficially, Hong Kong is by most practical measures its own country. While most Hong Kongers consider themselves Chinese, they do not consider themselves a part of China. They even have their own Olympic team, National anthem and flag. That said, this experience is rather enlightening. I learned a lot about the culture, whilst having fun!

This tour is priced at HKD 850 per hour for up to two guests, HKD 1,050 per hour for three guests and HKD 1,200 per hour for four guests. Minimum 4-hour booking is required.

HONG KONG FOOD WALKS

While Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong offers a choice of ten awardwinning restaurants and bars, the city is home to some of the most exciting local dining experiences in the world.

This city will not only delight the fashionista in you, but after a few days spent in China's food hub, you likely will never think about Chinese food the same way again. Hong Kong has a whopping 61 fact magazine

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“

“Hong Kong has a whopping 61 Michelinstarred restaurants and too many hidden gems to count.”

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Michelin-starred restaurants and too many hidden gems to count.

If high-quality, inventive, off-the-beaten path and Instagram-worthy dining experiences are your thing, Hong Kong should undoubtedly be your next foodie destination. You can thank me later!

Guests can join a renowned local food writer on a culinary tour to discover the best of Hong Kong’s backstreets, food culture and local markets.

Available for guests aged 15 years or above, this tour is priced at HKD 890 per hour for up to two guests and HKD 970 per hour for three guests. Minimum 4-hour booking is required.

BESPOKE ART WALKS

Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong works with established artists and fosters new talent year-round. These carefully curated art walks are led by local art connoisseurs and help guests uncover the city’s core creativity. Journeys include visiting some of Hong Kong’s most renowned contemporary Chinese art galleries; delving into the history of Hong Kong and Greater China through art and antiques; or going off the grid to uncover some of the city’s most cutting-edge art found in not-for-profit spaces.

Over the past decade, Hong Kong has been gaining clout as Asia’s art capital. Every year, the city draws thousands of artists, curators, buyers and art enthusiasts from around the world for high-profile art fairs such as Art Basel Hong Kong, the Asia Contemporary Art Show, Art Central and the Affordable Art Fair. However, Hong Kong art extends far beyond these events, with the city’s museums and other creative destinations high on the list of ‘best things to do while in town’.

This tour is priced at HKD 2,000 per hour for two to six guests.

Minimum 4-hour booking is required.

THE HOTEL Now, let me talk about the hotel. The iconic Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is the epitome of contemporary luxury combined with Oriental heritage. Having delighted guests with award-winning services and impressive facilities for over 50 years, it is a muchloved address for those seeking an exclusive sanctuary in the heart of this exciting city.

The hotel’s spacious rooms and suites offer magnificent views of the famous Victoria Harbour and the city’s skyline. A collection of 10 outstanding restaurants and bars, including three with Michelin Stars, a Shanghainese-inspired holistic spa, an indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness centre, make Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong the quintessential “home away from home” for discerning leisure and business travelers alike.

Available throughout the year, guests can book the Bed and Breakfast room package, with rates starting at HKD 4,280 per room, per night, inclusive of daily breakfast for up to two persons.

All four private tours are available at the additional cost stated and must be booked at least seven days in advance.

GO: VISIT WWW.MANDARINORIENTAL. COM/HONG-KONG/VICTORIAHARBOUR/LUXURY-HOTEL FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. FOLLOW @MO_HKG ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION. fact magazine

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CITY RIDES •

THE DAPPER AND DYNAMIC DISCOVERY LAND ROVER IS READY TO MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN DRIVING AGAIN WITH ONE OF THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY; DISCOVERY SPORT HSE. IT’S AN EXTENSION OF THE DISCOVERY MODEL LINE INTENDED TO CELEBRATE THE COMING TOGETHER OF LEISURE AND LUXURY, A CAR THAT IS JUST AS CAPABLE BEING OFF-ROAD AS IT IS HAULING PEOPLE THROUGH THE SUBURBS. FACT TESTS OUT ITS DUAL-PURPOSE ABILITY…

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• CITY RIDES

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rom overland expeditions to family adventures, road trips to Jebel Jais or weekend camping in the desert, Land Rover has been designing vehicles with composure and capability at their heart for more than 71 years. For the last three decades, the Discovery family has combined contemporary SUV design, unrivalled versatility and advanced technology for drivers with a spirit of adventure. Terrain Response 2 enables you to easily access our 70-plus years of expertise, with the vehicle automatically selecting the most appropriate off-road driving mode – perfect for the UAE. The new Discovery Sport is the latest addition to the bloodline and pushes the boundaries of the premium compact SUV sector with an enhanced exterior design and transformed interior. New vehicle architecture ensures the fastest-selling Land Rover ever produced is now more efficient, technologically-advanced and versatile than ever, keeping its occupants safe and comfortable in all conditions.

With new features and the very latest technology, the Discovery Sport delivers superior interior space and refinement, while its 5+2 interior features a new infotainment interface with the latest connectivity, plus a more flexible seating arrangement with up to 24 combinations for enhanced versatility.

There’s a lot that we love about the HSE trim. The vehicle features 18” 5 split-spoke ‘Style 511’ alloy wheels where the Land Rover logo is also prominent. Inside, and especially great for the scorching summer heat, passengers have the advantage of high-level vents that ensure comfort during long car rides for those in the second row. You’re able to control the airflow direction to your liking – it’s all in the details.

Under the skin, Land Rover’s new Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA) accommodates efficient new electrified engines, including a 48-volt mild hybrid from launch, to help reduce emissions and fuel consumption. The new body is 13 per cent stiffer than its predecessor, with rigidly-mounted subframes that reduce noise and vibration intrusion into the cabin, improving comfort and providing maximum safety in the event of a collision.

Trademark Discovery design cues, including the clamshell bonnet, rising beltline and tapered roof remain, but the new model is a bold exterior evolution. The proportions have been optimised to project a more striking visual with new signature LED headlamps at the front and rear, alongside a new front grille and bumpers.

On the HSE, the Xenon headlights provide greater visibility. They include signature Daytime Running Lights, rear LED taillights and headlight power wash.

The moment you step inside Discovery Sport, you feel a sense of calm. The panoramic roof bathes the cabin in light, whilst bold horizontal and vertical lines complement the clean, uncluttered surfaces. Add to this the premium materials which have been responsibly sourced, and you’ll see why you and your passengers will always enjoy the drive – whether it’s on an open road or in the city. In the HSE, perforated grained leather seats are soft to the touch and pleasing to the eye, these seats come in a choice of colours that truly complement the cabin architecture.

The arrival of the digital Touch Pro infotainment system and the introduction of more premium materials throughout transforms

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the cabin to create a high quality yet practical space. New seats across each of the three rows provide improved comfort and versatility, thanks to the second row 40:20:40 split fold and slide functionality, boosting the possible number of seat combinations to 24 and covering every eventuality – be it the school run, a family or friends road trip, or a trip into the desert.

If you’re all about the perfect playlist and carpool karaoke sessions, then the enhanced sounds from the 190W system with 10 speakers will be a huge plus. Your music sounds bright, rich and beautifully balanced – in fact, this is the one vehicle that you won’t mind waiting in if there’s traffic!

The Discovery Sport makes the most of its compact exterior dimensions with a versatile interior that has been enhanced to optimise interior space, provide improved small item stowage across all three rows and a 20 per cent increase in fuel tank capacity (up to 65-litres). With the option of Land Rover’s Activity Key, a wearable waterproof wristband that allows customers to lock and unlock the vehicle without using the traditional keyfob, the compact SUV is more usable than ever and designed to take your driving experience further.

Designed with electrification in mind, the new Premium Transverse Architecture allows for the introduction of a new 48volt mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powertrain on Discovery Sport. First launched on the new Range Rover Evoque, the system uses an engine-mounted belt-integrated starter generator to harvest energy normally lost during deceleration and stores it in an under-floor battery.

At speeds below 17km/h (11mph), the engine will shut off when the driver applies the brakes, before redeploying the stored energy to assist the engine under acceleration to reduce fuel consumption.

The new engine and transmissions are refined, quiet and efficient to drive, ensuring that whether driving through busy Downtown, a drive into rockier territory, or sandy terrain, they offer notable efficiency savings.

Designed to meet the digital demands of a modern family, the latest Discovery Sport is available with a ‘smart rear view mirror’ that transforms into a video screen at the flick of a switch to display what is behind the vehicle in crisp high definition.

CITY RIDES •

The digital transformation does not stop there. Wireless charging for compatible mobile devices is introduced for the first time within the lower centre console, while a 4G WiFi hotspot, alongside USB and 12-volt connectivity points on every row, ensure passengers remain charged and connected. Second and third row occupants also benefit from individual heating and ventilation controls to make the space more comfortable.

For regular drivers of the new Discovery Sport, Smart Settings uses artificial intelligence algorithms to learn driver preferences, adjusting massage and seat positions, music and climate settings and steering column positioning to suit each driver. The latest Discovery Sport is every inch a Land Rover, combining assured all-terrain handling with all-weather capability, including a wading depth of 600mm, All-Wheel Drive and a secondgeneration Active Driveline system (engine output dependent).

Refined capability, transformed interiors and a very cool composure, the HSE trim is packed with entertainment and technology upgrades alongside enhanced design – and though you can essentially accessorise and build your own Discovery Sport, the HSE already seems to tick all the right boxes, for both avid motorists as well as new Land Rover fans. Delivering superb agility and handling and even greater traction in off-road conditions, you might just want to drive the long way home. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.LANDROVER-UAE.COM TO BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE AND FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Offering a wider (50-degree) field of vision and superior visibility in low light conditions from a camera mounted above the rear window, the mirror ensures rear visibility is not compromised by second row passengers or bulky items in the boot.

ClearSight Ground View technology has been introduced to help drivers navigate high city centre kerbs or tackle rough terrain by projecting camera imagery that offers a virtual 180-degree view beneath the vehicle onto the touchscreen. Effectively making the bonnet invisible, this is the realisation of Land Rover’s Transparent Bonnet technology, first previewed in 2014.

There is a reversing camera as standard on all models, alongside a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist, which centres the vehicle in the lane based on road markings as well as maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Other active safety features include Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Driver Condition Monitor. Improving your visibility when reversing, the rear traffic monitor and blind spot assist are features we particularly want to highlight. This produces static lines that represent the vehicle’s outer perimeter and predicted path; these lines are superimposed on the rearward image to make parking easier too – and we all know how helpful that is in a place where everything from mall to street parking can be a challenge at times. fact magazine

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER…

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M,Cookpad

My Study Life

Turn your smartphone into a handy digital cookbook with Cookpad.

Combining recipe tutorials with social media, the app provides users with a forum to search and share crowdsourced recipes for everything from appetisers to desserts. Users can take their pick from an abundant of recipes, with filters for ingredients and special occasions. That’s not all - you also get tools to post your own results, brainstorm ideas and rate recipes.

Cooking has never been this convenient!

Every student’s best friend, the My Study Life app will make sure you get organised and stay on schedule. The cross-platform digital planner helps you keep track of your daily schedule, as well as important dates such as exams, tests and homework deadlines.

The app comes with an array of academic oriented features including a homework tracker for due and overdue assignments, a calendar with colourcoded events, a class schedule manager, notifications and so much more!

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PLUGGED IN •

INNOVATIVE IMAGING Giving you the very best in PTZ technology, Panasonic’s new AW-HE42 is innovation at its finest.

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full HD Integrated PTZ camera, the new AWHE42 offers significant improvements in lensing, stabilization and interfacing to prior Panasonic models in this class. Boasting a wide range of interfaces including 3G-SDI/ HDMI/IP/Gen lock, the camera reflects Panasonic’s reinforced continuation by offering their customers a new and improved camera. The camera is also equipped with an external sync signal input connector as well as BBS (Black Burst Sync) and trilevel sync that enables flexibility in any environment. Designed to produce high-quality video as well as precise control and movement, it is ideal for highly demanding remote productions, and for complex IMAG applications. This full HD camera with an integrated rotating base is equipped with 3G-SDI and a variety of other output connectors. The four types of output interfaces and the Gen Lock function supports smooth large-scale shooting, with multiple cameras. Keeping with the company’s commitment to further developing products that meet the users’ expectations, AW-HE42 pursues easy operation and offers an even more diverse and complete functioning.

Featuring a 1080/60p, 50p 1 FHD output, the camera offers a wide horizontal viewing angle of 65.1 degrees, along with a 20x optical zoom with virtually lossless of 30x i.Zoom. Furthermore, the AW-HE42 comes equipped with a 1/2.3-type FHD MOS

sensor, and increased number of interfaces, including 3G-SDI, HDMI, IP (facilitating streaming and NDI|HX 2 support), and Gen lock for camera matching in live production. Making videos more efficient and clearer than ever, the AW-HE42 is equipped with an Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), which ensures that vibrations of the mounted surface caused by doors opening and closing, audio systems and other installed equipment are automatically corrected. Packed with the latest features and state-of-the-art technology, the product is ideal for use in broadcast, conference rooms, live events, staging, distance learning and houses of worship. Offering an increased number of interfaces, significant upgrades and facilitating streaming and NDI and HX support, Panasonic remains at the forefront of innovation with the launch of this cost-effective integrated PTZ. Crafted to produce great results in a variety of applications as well as introducing several of the world’s firsts’ in PTZ technology, the camera is definitely one of the best cameras available in the market right now. ✤

GO: THE AW-HE42, IN BOTH BLACK AND WHITE VERSIONS, IS NOW AVAILABLE IN THE MIDDLE EAST. VISIT WWW. PANASONIC.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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PIRATE

Mina’s Kitchen | The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi For Reservations Call: +971 4 511 7373 www.minaskitchendubai.com

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FASHION FOCUS •

TRANSCENDING FASHION AW’19 sees a fresh take on Ted Baker’s iconic designs…

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WOMEN Laid-back luxury is key for the introduction of this collection.

The season sees the arrival of Ted’s everyday staples, each piece modernised to perfectly complete the look. Lightweight, soft georgettes and cottons are paired with second-skin denim and dainty daisy embroidery to deliver a versatile, summer wardrobe.

Ditsy florals are elevated against navy backdrops and bold leaves create a graphic take on Ted’s renowned floral print. Fabrics are lightweight and outerwear is relaxed, with a focus on individual items for the perfect outfit building wardrobe.

Contemporary twists on feminine styles give the collection a refreshed and refined look. Metallic fabrics sit alongside summer cottons and neon piping and drawstring details add a sporty feel to floral dresses, while D-ring hardware on jumpsuits introduce a more utilitarian edge.

Playfulness and partywear is in Ted Baker’s DNA; disco sequin dresses and grown-up dark floral prints pave the way to the festive season. Metallics become an essential this season with georgette styles featuring gold flecks for added texture, whilst fluid gold and silver fabrics add movement to the collection.

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MEN Bold, fearless and always one to do things differently, Ted’s taken a trip on the wild side for his latest AW\19 collection. Join him on a journey through the jungle and discover the eclectic mix of florals and subtle geometric that shaped his prints for the season.

Taking inspiration from exotic surroundings, Ted’s silky soft shirts have been reinterpreted in key shades of khaki and emerald, alongside wild flora and fauna. Styled with orange and yellows for the brave, or toned down with pastel hues; the collection slots seamlessly into every man’s existing wardrobe.

Adding a flourish of colour, Ted’s prints are designed to be paired with chinos on a summer’s day -whilst taking you into winter with relaxed tailoring for a perfect smart casual look. Layering is key to Autumn’s changing climate. Which is why come rain or shine, Ted’s got you covered with a subtle and versatile colour palette.

Refreshed and reimagined, his signature cagoule features a subtle geometric print, an understated take on the traditional waterproof layer. Finish the look with a half zip funnel neck or field jacket to help you wrap up for Ted’s journey of exploration.✤ GO: SHOP TED BAKER’S AW’19 COLLECTION IN STORES ACROSS THE GULF. fact magazine

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SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM TED BAKER’S AW’19 COLLECTION...

FOR HER

FOR HIM

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN TED BAKER STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 76

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• BEAUTY BOX

Beauty Checklist

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KEEP THAT SUMMERTIME FLY LOOK GOING INTO SEPTEMBER

The Face Shop ROSE SILK-BOUQUET BODY MIST Get nourished and moisturised skin for days!

Formulated with Rosa Damascene from Persia and citrus notes for an added zing, the fresh, rose fruity scented body mist lingers on your body and gives a refreshing feeling that can easily replace the need for a heavy perfume and used for a quick refresh.

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Fenty Beauty

PRO FILT’R INSTANT RETOUCH PRIMER Enjoy smooth, porediffusing finish; this oil-free face primer smooths away the look of pores, visibly evens skin tone and texture and instantly absorbs shine without feeling dry or chalky. Unlike a basic primer with mattifying properties, Pro Filt’r mattifies skin with the lightest-possible feel. Say hello to smoother foundation application and longer makeup wear!

Guerlain ABEILLE ROYALE MATTIFYING DAY CREAM

Packed with honey’s amazing antiseptic and nourishing properties, this is all you need for that lit from within look. Ideal for the needs of oily and combination skin, the formula leaves the complexion the complexion looking smoother, firmer, more balanced and mattified. The Blackbee Repair Technology works to maintain balanced skin, boosts the skin’s natural defences and protects from environmental oxidants.

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Sukin SENSITIVE PINK CLAY MASK

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Offering the very best in natural skincare, Sukin’s Sensitive Pink Clay Mask will leave your skin looking naturally clear and radiant. Combining pink and red clays with soothing aloe vera and chamomile, coupled with a light vanilla fragrance, this masque will gently extract impurities and environmental pollutants. Perfect to detox, cleanse and purify the skin!

L’Occitane

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AROMACHOLOGIE INTENSE REPAIRING SHAMPOO ECO-FRIENDLY Good for the environment and your precious locks, this shampoo helps smooth and soften even the most fragile hair. Made with anti-breakage complex, the new formula contains five essential oils (ylang-ylang, sweet orange, lavender, geranium, angelica) and plant-derived amino acids, which help repair hair fibers.

Kat Von D LIMITED-EDITION CREAMFOIL EYESHADOW Take your eye makeup to a whole new level!

A cream-powder formula with a unique plush texture, it delivers intense metallic colour with a brilliantly reflective finish. This cuttingedge, super long-wear formula combines the buttery bendability of a cream with the opaque finish you can only achieve with a powder.

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GROOMING BOX •

Grooming Checklist KEEP YOUR GROOMING GAME ON LOCK AS WE HEAD INTO HUMID SEPTEMBER…

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THE RITUAL OF SAMURAI

BOOTS

4

SAMURAI FACE CLEANSING FOAM

NO7 MEN PROTECT & PERFECT INTENSE ANTI-AGE SERUM

Put your best face forward!

Inspired by the grooming traditions of the ancient Japanese warriors, The Ritual of Samurai helps you master the art of looking and feeling your best.

Enriched with organic bamboo, Ginseng and wakame kelp, the foam rids the skin of dirt, impurities and clogged pores for a smooth and clear complexion.

Keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay! Penetrating deeper into your skin to moisturise it more thoroughly, the powerful serum instantly leaves skin looking healthier and suppler. With regular use, skin feels stronger, more elastic and deep lines and wrinkles are reduced- leaving you looking better than ever in just four weeks!

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DOERS OF LONDON SHAVE CREAM

Speed up your morning routine with the soothing shaving cream that not only ensures a smooth shave, but also helps soothe and repair any razor irritation.

This non-foaming formula contains vitamin-rich Shea Butter to soften, moisturise and regenerate skin, as well as Vetiver and Myrrh Oil, a natural antiseptic that calms and supports healing.

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MARLOWE MEN’S FACIAL SCRUBNO. 122 Scrub away dirt and

dead skin! An exfoliating facial scrub, it cleanses the face and sloughs away dry skin and excess oil. Pumice gently buffs away impurities to prepare for a closer shave while Aloe is used to moisturize, soften and soothe skin.

It’s light agarwood scent, followed by the balance of sandalwood and musk is definitely an added plus!

JACK BLACK TRUE VOLUME THICKENING SHAMPOO

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Get the best hair of your life! This sulfate-free shampoo removes oils, dirt, and product buildup, while helping hair look and feel thicker.

Enriched with a bodybuilding blend of botanicals and a proprietary thickening complex called Expansion Technology, the antioxidant rich formula helps hair follicles look healthy and full while creating a healthy-looking sheen.

DOVE MEN+CARE COOL FRESH DRY SPRAY ANTIPERSPIRANT DEODORANT

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A powerful yet mild formula, this men’s spray antiperspirant goes on instantly dry to combat odor and wetness for up to 48 hours.

Formulated with ¼ moisturizer technology to strengthen skin against irritation, it gives you powerful sweat protection while its glacial scent leaves you feeling refreshed and energised- all day long!

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• DINING LISTINGS

OKTOBERFEST AT BROTHAUS SOMMERGARTEN If you can’t make it to Munich this season, don’t worry! The popular Sommergarten at Brothaus is bringing you the next best thing here in Dubai, perfectly made for friends and families.

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fficially launching on September 20 with the first Bavarian brunch, all the way through to the end of October, the team at Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay will be opening its doors and welcoming you for a home-style taste of Germany.

Brothaus Sommergarten, the indoor terrace of Brothaus, will transform into a German-style ‘biergarten' with a wonderful Bavarian feel, a play of blue and white drapes hanging from the ceiling.

A cosy venue in the heart of Business Bay, the biergarten is the perfect spot to gather with friends and family to enjoy authentic German delicacies, including the popular Schnitzel, a variety of hops and crazy drinks deals from AED25.

Brothaus Oktoberfest features a themed menu all through the week from 5pm with traditional dishes starting from AED50. Every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 5pm, a Bavarian themed Weekend VolksFest Brunch with all-you80

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can-eat package for only AED145 will be your next must-try thing to do during the weekend!

The chefs recommend the legendary Brothaus Wiener Schnitzel, and the must try flagship cakes - Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel) and the Queen of all cakes the Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest) to name just a few. And of course nothing goes better with hearty German food than a large stein of their legendary hops – served ice cold with a large head just the way it should be. ✤

SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT On Friday and Saturday Oktoberfest is all about the feel-good vibe with live DJ playing on Friday’s from 12pm at Weekend Wolkfest! Guests can also enjoy shisha.

Dress Code Smart / casual, but we would love to see you sporting the traditional dirndl and lederhosen to get a free pint on weekends!

Location Brothaus Bakery – Bistro Sommergarten at Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay. When Oktoberfest runs from September 21 to October 31, from 5pm.

Oktoberfest Weekend Brunch from September 20, every Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 5pm.

GO: CALL (0)4 369 0000 OR FOLLOW @BROTHAUSDUBAI FOR ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION.

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FOODIE FIX:

SEPTEMBER DINING Just some of our favourite culinary deals for the month ahead…

BOTANY TUESDAYS AT ZOCO Botana, also known as small bites / appetiSers / tapas, are a huge part of Mexican fiestas! Bringing this tradition to Dubai, Chef Manuel is all set to introduce one-person portions of some of his signature dishes like ceviches, nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, guacamole and chips, taquitos, garnachas and lots more, just like they do in Mexico. He strongly believes, Taco Tuesdays are for Tex-Mex lovers but if you’re a fan of authentic Mexican food, this one’s for you! In order to take this popular “cantina” tradition forward, Zoco will be offering “unlimited botanas” every Tuesday from 5pm to 11pm for AED135.

GO: Call (0)4 437 0044 for reservations or more information.

THE GREAT WALDORF ASTORIA BRUNCH Head to Mezzerie at Waldorf Astoria Dubai The Palm for an exciting brunch including interactive table service, signature dishes and live entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Brunch-goers are sure to be treated to a memorable Friday with loved ones, as they dine on Waldorf Astoria’s signature dishes and concoctions from the finest chefs and 82

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balls and an eclectic mix of music with an open bar for ladies until midnight.

GO: Visit www.industrialavenuedubai.com more information.

NEW CHEESE MENU AT PUBLIQUE

bartenders. The classic brunch will serve up a buffet bursting with variety, including seafood, sushi and salad stations, as well as a dessert safari for those with a sweet tooth. The afternoon will be complemented with live entertainment to get the party started, including a live guitarist, band and magician. Fridays from 1pm to 4pm. AED375 per person inclusive of soft beverages; and AED495 per person inclusive of premium beverages.

GO: Call (0)4 818 2222 for reservations or more information.

HOUSE OF QUEENS AT INDUSTRIAL AVENUE Taking inspiration from the buzzing streets of a night in Shoreditch, House Of Queens is a night dedicated to the ladies looking to let their hair down and enjoy a night that is all about the music and the people, hosted at Industrial Avenue's new speakeasy bar: The Shoreditch. With vocal and house disco mixes by guest DJ Jenn Gletz, House of Queens brings a new edgy and relaxed element to the Tuesday nightlife scene. Expect Disco

Cheese lovers, rejoice! Publique, the innovative Alpine-Esque restaurant and bar, has announced new daily cheese menu offers, guaranteed to delight your taste buds and melt away from your blues (cheesy?). Gooey, warm, buttery and comforting, melted cheese is heaven and you can now get your hands on the city’s best all week long! Daily from 12pm onwards, the vibrant restaurant and bar located at Souk Madinat Jumeirah will be serving an array of delectable cheese alongside complementary grape.

Prices start at AED220 for two people.

GO: Call (0)4 430 8550 for reservations or more information.

STEAK & SHAVE GENT’S NIGHT AT PRIME68 Gather your mates and head down to the award-winning Prime68 steakhouse at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, where you can enjoy a selection of prime cuts served with sharing sides complemented by red grape and a barber’s appointment.

Yes, you heard that right! Lean back and enjoy a beard trim or hot towel facial experience while your steak is sizzling on the grill. Every Wednesday from 6pm until midnight. AED950 for four people with a magnum of grape, and AED399 for two people with a bottle of grape.

GO: Call (0)4 414 0000 for reservations or more information.

OPA’S RHODES BRUNCH OPA continues its glorious brunch series with the launch of its third edition on September 13 - the OPA Rhodes Brunch.

Get ready to party like the Greeks while you take a feel of the ‘Island of the Knights’ and soak up all that the Grecian culture has to offer. Brunch-goers will experience OPA’s big fat Greek brunch with a plate-smashing Mediterranean feast paired with Greek-inspired mixed drinks, alongside OPA’s signature foot-tapping Zorba dancing and live entertainment. Savour OPA’s authentic four-course brunch extravaganza, perfectly curated by its team of culinary experts. With dishes like Spicy Feta, Hummus,Grilled Cypriot Halloumi, Fig and Walnut Salad, Steamed Sea Bass Fillet, Imam Baildi, Grilled Baby Chicken and heavenly desserts such as the Athenian Pie, Pistachio Cake and Greek Yoghurt Ice Cream, this is one brunch you don’t want to miss. From noon until 4pm, OPA’s brunch is priced at AED350 for house beverages and AED395 for the premium package. ✤ GO: Call (0)4 357 0557 for reservations or more information. fact magazine

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

PORTUGUESE PERFECTION

Located on the 6th floor of the stunning Mandarin Oriental Jumeira lies Tasca, a Portuguese restaurant from acclaimed chef José Avillez. The first restaurant opening outside of Portugal for Avillez is a big deal for Dubai and shows the city is beginning to compete on the culinary world stage. FACT’s David Tapley experienced a leisurely Saturday lunch at the chic venue… fact magazine

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here couldn’t be a more perfect fit for Tasca than the UAE’s first Mandarin Oriental property, providing a chic yet relaxed space on the Jumeira shoreline. The restaurant is no different and em-braces diners with a wellthought out design exemplified by an impressive dining space that is both intimate and inspiring. Accessed via a private elevator that exclusively services the restaurant, the door slides open to reveal sleek vino cases and a distinct loft-style environment. Jet black exposed brick walls and wooden cladding match the simple furnishings of this particular tasca (Portuguese tavern). Tables follow the flow of the restaurant, taking on the shape of a horseshoe and wrapping around a central show kitchen where restaurant and bar become one. A team of chefs and mixolo-gists work side-by-side concocting innovative cocktails and Portuguese dishes, sharing the space and working in complete unison. It’s something we’ve not seen before and we’d encourage diners to take a seat at the bar to fully appreciate the interactivity of the experience where the lines be-tween chef and diner are well and truly blurred.

Vibrant turquoise glassware matches the infinity pool and ocean views that flank the left side of the restaurant, while on the right lies a small private dining area and a number of seats looking out to-wards the Dubai skyline and the towering Burj Khalifa.

Tasca’s menu is concise and designed with sharing in mind.

Our keen waiter hails from Portugal and recommends a selection of three dishes per person to really embrace the concept and we happily go along with his personal favourites. Accompanied by an eclectic beverage menu, we are delighted by the Primo Basílico with lemon foam and basil and the Algarve’s Whisper. A combina-tion of orange, yuzu and honey, bursting with citrusy notes and successfully capturing a sense of the sun-kissed Mediterranean in a glass.

The food represents a contemporary take on Portuguese cuisine, taking many traditional elements and injecting them with a distinct modern twist. Authenticity prevails but even the restaurant admits to difficulties when it comes to sourcing some of the ingredients for the dishes. All of the seafood is flown in from Portugal but other ingredients such as the meat are brought in from elsewhere, a prevailing difficulty in the Dubai dining scene.

Beginning with seafood, we thoroughly enjoy the subtleties of the coastal prawns marinated in cit-rus, seaweed and summer truffle. Representing a light dish, the discreet nuances in flavour com-plement one another admirably.

The grilled scarlet shrimp is a representation of simplicity at its very best! Plating a large Portuguese shrimp that has been lightly grilled and served with Tasca sauce and a yuzu mayonnaise. A dish so good in fact, that we order it twice.

The Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá is a pleasant surprise with its mix of codfish, potatoes, onion cream and olives. That once mixed together becomes a powerhouse of a dish.

Tasca’s piri piri chicken with smoked avocado cream brings

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a prevalent flavour to the meat that is hard to replicate and served with a fiery sauce, shows to the world how this popular dish should be executed. Similarly, the 150g Wagyu sirloin is prepared in the josper grill before being sprinkled with salt and served alongside a yuzu and truffle sauce. In truth, the sauce is not required as the flavour from the pre-mium meat is more than enough.

Squeezing in room for desserts as we gaze out over the ocean vista, we opt for the traditional cus-tard tart or pastel de nata which at Tasca comes with a generous dollop of coffee ice cream. Tasca looks to bring a laid back sense of dining anchored around good food to the Emirates. It’s pleasing to witness such a refreshing culinary concept for Dubai and Tasca represents one of the first res-taurants to really specialise in quality Portuguese food in the city. Many of the team hail from Por-tugal which brings an added authenticity to the experience and a real sense of pride in Avillez’s concept. Reciting the origins of the dishes, the history, the inspiration and where all the ingredients are sourced from with such gleeful abandon that their passion for the restaurant becomes infec-tious. The result is an inclusive and rewarding dining experience and one that is well worth check-ing out. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 777 2231 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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LUXURY EATS •

GET US TO THE GREEK!

A bevvy of Greek restaurants line the streets of Dubai right now. But we’ve found the definitive one to smash the others off the circuit… enter Gaia. fact magazine

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rom having a few scant (and greasy) options for Greek cuisine, Dubai has done a 180’ in the last nine months and all of a sudden, the level of choice for Greek cuisine is akin to Indian cuisine offerings: it’s everywhere. But as with all choice, differentiation needs to be made.

If you’re expecting a taverna-style, beach front atmosphere, Gaia (which means earth in Greek) will be lost on you. Strap on your best shoes and silky numbers, because Gaia is fancy with a capital F. But that doesn’t mean it’s without its Greek charm.

The DIFC located restaurant has a sweep of whitewashed elegance with elegantly framed black and white Greek island and Peloponnese (the southern mainland) shots capturing the simplicity and humbles of yesteryear. That’s offset with beautiful mirrored columns dotted around the tables and a centralised bar of fresh fish scooped into ice with the buzzy staff moving in and around their arena speaking mostly lively Greek. In a word: there’s energy.

Like you’d expect with Greek hospitality – which our waiter said we would be showered with – the generosity of spirit and serving is over-the-top. It’s worth noting from the beginning that your portions aren’t oversized though – but the decadence is unmatched.

We began with a creamy Taramosalata, which is a smokey cod roe dip with olive oil and lemon juice. As pedestrian as this starter normally is, at Gaia it’s got a five-star kick to it. The triangular sesame pitta breads that come with it make this a hearty dish – yes dish, it’s that filling.

A medley of starters followed, by way of Sweet Roasted Peppers with a smearing of silky goat cheese atop sesame bread in bagel formation; Red Mullet ceviche with a choice of three dressings: truffle, mandarin and citrus – truffle makes this dish all the more moreish; Baked Feta Cheese encased in a baklava-type filo with honey and nuts – if you’re after an oxymoronic experience of soft and crisp, this is it. We ended our first (first!) course with smootherthan-butter Scallops and a literal platter of lightly battered concentric Zucchini slices served with a strong dollop of Tzatziki.

A surf and turf main course was ushered to the table in the form of a medium cooked Lamb Cutlets. Even at medium you could cut off a piece with just a fork.

The star of the show though was the Sea Bream – there was nothing ‘fishy’ about it – almost as if this particular fish was sourced from sweet Lake water.

Our waiter had presented us the entire fish in all its glossy glory and then de-boned it himself. There was so much natural flavour in the fish, we really didn’t need to supplement it with condiments.

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Desserts were three-fold: Frozen Greek Yoghurt swiveled with honey and topped with crunchy walnuts, Loukoumades (fried dough drenched in syrup) and a Chocolate Brownie oozing with melted marshmallow. If you’re going to maximize your dessert experience, we recommend mixing and matching the frozen Greek yoghurt with the brownie.

You’ll be thrilled. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 241 4242 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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For the culture-savvy in Dubai

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The city’s best culinary deals and food promos for September

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FOODIE CORNER •

LEAVE IT TO THE LEVANTINES

Covering a cluster of cuisines, Olea at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Dubai, offers classically Levant dishes with many diverse and enticing quirks. FACT dives into a weekend lunch feast to while away the afternoon… fact magazine

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n most cultures, food is the main binder of its people – whether in times of joy or woe. Think of any occasion or an event you attended that ushered a crowd of random people – talk soon turned to the food, did it not? How it hit the spot; how you wished you could make it at home; how you’ve never tasted anything quite like it? When the chat dries up, food becomes an essential social lubricant – even in the most vivacious of cultures.

One such region that pivots practically every waking moment around food, is the Levant. Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan form the core four nations of what is known as the Levant, with a centralised cuisine born of geographical and historical circumstances that has seen centuries of mixing and matching tantalising food.

We’re not unaccustomed to Levantine cuisine in the UAE. Far from it, in fact. We’ve all got a handle of Hummous and Baba Ghanoush as well as the more advanced dishes like Kunafah, but Olea, located in the Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, shows up your Levant knowledge, big time.

Sharing is at the forefront of Olea’s concept. The Levantine restaurant encourages that spirited camaraderie that the region is most famous for. As the people of the Levant are, the dishes are lively and bold in flavour with hearty portions to match.

With a menu that is holistically Levantine, marking each dish to its country of origin (with a broader definition of the Levant, including Cyprus in its club), there’s a level of deep-rooted authenticity that cannot be faulted about Olea. In fact, most of the menu items take what we know of Levantine food and add detail that comes as a surprise. The Trio of Labneh for example – of Syrian origin – came with garlic, walnut and chilli paste. That lush Labneh texture came in spades, but the walnut and chilli paste took it to a whole new dimension of flavour, which made it far less a pedestrian appetiser than it typically is.

The fire roasted Baba Ghanoush was equally zesty as was the

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lemon saturated (a very good thing) Tabouleh – which came with some hidden yet impactful quinoa.

We don’t think this next dish is experienced widely enough. Kubbeh, if you didn’t know already, comes in raw form as well as the more commonplace super breaded and baked variety. We tried the Syrian variety of Kubbeh Nayeh which combines bulgar, raw meat and onions with some herbs too. It definitely doesn’t taste like your steak tartare. It’s far more substantial in texture and taste. The kick comes from the wheat – it gives it a flick of cinnamon even though there’s none in sight. This dish practically introduces you to a never-before-tasted side of the famous cuisine, so we highly recommend it.

Our mains focused on some surf and turf between the Mansaf Bil Lahmeh (lamb) and the Red Grouper.

The former came submerged in a milky yoghurt dish, wherein the soaked lamb slid so effortlessly off the bone; the accompanying turmeric rice was actual life, too. The Red Grouper came in a traditional clay pot from Palestine, full to the brim with steaming vegetables. A nice nod to authentic cooking methods.

For dessert we couldn’t help but go for your standard issue Baklawa with ice cream. But as is the case for most of Olea’s dishes, there was a twist.

Instead of serving a hunk of baklawa, this piece was deconstructed in and around the ice cream – meaning the job of having to get the perfect ratio of the two in one bite was taken care of.

If it’s an adventurous ride or simply a different take on the Levantine cuisine you’re after, Olea’s chef – who has spent many years across all the Levant countries – with his culinary companions, serves up real tradition with creative whims on a plate. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 409 5111 OR VISIT WWW.OLEADUBAI.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• SPA & WELLNESS DEALS

ADDRESS, PLEASE? For all of you U By Emaar guests (and those looking for a spot of relaxation), here are some of the best wellness and dining deals at Dubai’s Address hotels…

a heady henna and date scrub to smooth the skin, followed by an indulgent camel milk body wrap and renewing date facial, the three treatments combine in perfect unison to pamper the skin and leave a radiant glow, reminiscent of a majestic desert sunrise. AED1,040 per person, available daily from 10am to 10pm.

Half-Day Spa Bliss Package An afternoon of pure bliss awaits guests at The Spa, Address Dubai Mall. Beginning with an hour-long massage combining traditional techniques with specially selected fragrances, guests can cool off with a dip in the pool facing the iconic Burj Khalifa, followed by an exquisite four-course lunch at Cabana. AED650 per person inclusive of a 60-minute Pure Harmony massage, pool access and four-course lunch from a set menu at Cabana. Available daily from 10am to 10pm.

GO: Call (0)4 438 8025 for reservations and more information.

ADDRESS DOWNTOWN

ADDRESS BOULEVARD Ladies Day Tuesday Every lady deserves a seriously special treatment and Tuesdays at Address Boulevard offer up the perfect excuse to pamper. Available from 9am to 10pm, ladies can book in for a 90-minute treatment that includes a luxurious facial that combines the power of rarefied ingredients with advanced techniques and 30-minute massage for just AED550.

Spa Serenity Afternoon Tea Combine award-winning pampering and culinary indulgence with the Spa Serenity Afternoon Tea at Address Boulevard this summer.

Enjoy a soothing yet decadent experience that starts with a 60 minutes relaxing massage or an invigorating facial followed by the Art Crafted Afternoon Tea at the Lounge featuring a beautiful chest of drawers full of tantalizing delicacies. Including full access to The Spa facilities, this afternoon treat is available daily from 2.30pm to 6pm for just AED550 per person.

Hammam Social at The Spa For an aromatic and cleansing Hammam experience like no other, head to The Spa at Address Boulevard. Starting with the exfoliating of the skin with Kessa glove and body hydration, the revitalising 90-minute treatment is followed by a full Rhassoul hair wash and a top-to-toe body mask for gorgeous hair and glowing skin. Once scrubbed and polished, round off with a blissful foot massage to complement this one of a kind Hamman ritual. This rejuvenating package also includes access to the hotel’s exceptional spa facilities and outdoor dedicated pool overlooking the iconic Burj Khalifa and is available for AED613 per person.

GO: Call (0)4 561 8126 for reservations and more information.

ADDRESS DUBAI MALL Arabian Escape Treatment Take an ‘Arabian Escape’ this summer with a treatment inspired by ancient journeys through the vast deserts of Arabia. Starting with 96

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Diamonds Are a Girls Best Friend Titled the ‘youth elixir’, the Diamond Life Infusion Facial unveils renewed skin, redefines natural contours, improves skin texture, increases elasticity and reduces expression lines – offering instant results after only 90 minutes. Guests who book will receive a complimentary PerfectSense paraffin for hands and feet, worth AED375 and a further 20% off any Diamond Life products to support continued results. AED1,300 for 90 minutes of the Diamond Life Infusion Facial, complimentary PerfectSense Paraffin and 20% off all Diamond Life products. Available until September 30.

GO: Call (0)4 436 8888 for reservations and more information.

ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA Summer Tea Sensation With the purifying and healing benefits of tea combined with expert spa methods, this summer The Spa guests can combine three amazing treatments for just AED550. Lasting a blissful 75-minutes, the Regenerating Back Massage, Tea Exfoliation and Green Tea Facial is the kindest way to tackle the heat this time of year.

Sunday Men’s Day Sunday is fun day for men at The Spa, when male spa goers receive a 20% discount on all treatments of 50-minutes and above. Just to sweeten an already great deal, The Spa also extends a full day of complimentary access to the infinity swimming pool.

Super Express Facial Indulge and experience the new Medi-Diamond facial treatment program using Korean nanotechnology formulation and result driven techniques. These highly innovative treatments use colloidal diamond to deliver powerful and effective ingredients into the deepest layer of skin giving guests instant and long-lasting results. The signature facials are available from 30 minutes express treatments at AED250 to 90 minutes at AED950. ✤ GO: Call (0)4 436 7424 for reservations and more information.

All Summer Long Dining and Spa Deal – U By Emaar Available until September 30, visit any Address Hotel + Resort, Vida Hotel & Resort or ROVE for dining or spa and get 50% off when paying in full with Upoints. Take advantage of this amazing offer across a range of award-winning restaurants and amazing spas - from the worlds tallest restaurant, Atmosphere to the best steak house in town Asado; or simply relax in the hands of luxury at one of the six The Spa at the Address located in Dubai. To receive the discount, simply present a U By Emaar membership card across any participating venue and request to make the payment using Upoints.

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CITY INSIDER

Shamia Abdul Aziz Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications, Sofitel Dubai The Palm

Tell us three things that make Sofitel Dubai The Palm stand out from its competitors?

Firstly, the resort features 546 rooms, suites, apartments and villas providing accommodation for every need ranging from couples, families to lengthier stays. Secondly, the Polynesian theme design of the resort combined with French elegance, lush greenery, wood elements, water features, natural stones and paintings make the resort a unique tropical and relaxing sanctuary. Last but not least, our focus on sustainability through programs such as “Planet 21” reflects our commitment towards minimising the impact of activity on the environment and allows us to become a business that is a part of 98

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the community, promoting ethical culture and business practices.

What are your favourite cultural hotspots in Dubai and why?

Dubai has so many hidden gems, many people never see. Outside of your stereotypical tourist destinations and the malls, my favourite cultural hotspots are Al Seef and Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood. I enjoy wandering over to Al Seef and exploring its charming pathways, art gallery and dining boulevard offering amazing cuisines with the Dubai Creek view.

I always encourage Dubai visitors to make sure they visit this area of Dubai so that they can really experience a full version of the city.

Share with us some of your professional goals at the hotel for the rest of 2019?

I joined Sofitel Dubai The Palm three month ago as the Assistant Director of Marketing, PR and Communications and I am very excited to execute the marketing strategies and plans that I have put in place for the rest of 2019.

From implementing our recent new Sofitel branding and tagline “Live the French way”, to launching a new Indian restaurant concept and planning for the Festive ‘Art de Noel’ campaigns, there will be a lot of interesting activations to look forward to and ensuring our highest standard of hospitality for our guests.

Laze & Louvre at Abu Dhabi’s Best Address A picturesque time for two including a stay at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi with magnificent views from the iconic Nation Towers of the UAE capital and the Arabian Gulf, complemented by a visit to the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi – the first universal museum in the Arab World. The art-lovers dream that translates the spirit of openness of cultures and celebrates the universal creativity of mankind from ancient times to the contemporary era.

Live Exquisite from AED 800* for Two including: • Two nights at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi • Two tickets to the Louvre Abu Dhabi • Breakfast for two at The Terrace on the Corniche • Invitation to Champagne Sabering (one time, valid for 2 adults) • Bubble bath arranged by our Butler team • Early check-in and late check-out until 4pm (subject to hotel availability) *All prices are in UAE Dirham and are exclusive of applicable service charges, local fees and taxes.

©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates t. +971 2 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com

Stay exquisite at more than 40 St. Regis hotels and resorts worldwide. @stregishotels

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Le MĂŠridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre Tel +971 4 217 0000 l www.lemeridien-dubai.com

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