Haute Dubai Issue #2

Style Guide Year of Snake Ringing the Year with Provocative Jewelry

Glam & the City

Interview with Tala Samman – Fashionista, Style Consultant & Founder of MyFashdiary.com

Celebrating the Best in Culinary World The Third BBC Good Food Middle East Awards 2012

Elegant Bordeaux

“The World Capital of Vintage Wine, Vineyards & Vibrant Artistic Scenes”

CONTENTS 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 46

INTERVIEW

Glam & the City Interview with Tala Samman – Fashionista, Style Consultant & Founder of MyFashdiary.com

STYLE

Bvlgari Serpenti: a history, a legend, a signature

The Year of the Snake: Ringing the Year with Provocative Jewelry TREND ALERT Color of the Year: Emerald A Hand-craft Indeed Hermes Birkin Bags

A Ritzy Splash The Clive Christian No.1 New Fragrances for the Alluring Woman

New Fragrances for the Sophisticated Man Montblanc ʻCollection Princesse Grace de Monacoʼ

Haute Couture for Sirens Versace Atelier

DINING

A Culinary Jewel Voi Restauramt, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel

Swanky Dining A Delicate Selection of Fine Dining Restaurants

LEISURE

Luxurious Pampering Talise Ottoman Spa Distinctive Class and Sophistication The Cigar Lounge

12

CONTENTS 50

54 56 58 60 68 71 73

LIVING

Lofty Living A Lavishing Roundup of Opulent Home Design

ART

Cultivating Art in the Emirates UAE – Towards Becoming A World Class Art Destination

AUTO

The Definitive Luxury Car Jaguar XJ Ultimate

A Tale of Noble Linage Rolls-Royce One Thousand and One Nights Bespoke Ghost Collection

TRAVEL

Elegant Bordeaux “The World Capital of Vintage Wine, Vineyards & Vibrant Artistic Scenes.”

SOCIETY

Iconic Brands at an Iconic Venue World Luxury Expo Dubai

Celebrating the Best in Culinary World The Third BBC Good Food Middle East Awards 2012

Haute Events When & Where

14

EDITOR’S MESSAGE Dear Readers, Hello and welcome! Working on the magazine has proved to be a fulfilling and magnificently fun experience.

There are many joys in culling together such a multifaceted luxury magazine and the renewing opportunity to present the finest of luxurious treasures and splendor.

With the success of our premiere issue, we are committed to continuing in the same vein: exploring the affluent opulent lifestyle Dubai enjoys.

As we are still early in the calendar year, a year which promises great things for Dubai, and whilst the new year’s optimism and freshness abounds in the clean slate of our hearts, we wanted to bring you up to speed with this year’s themes, colors, and trends, before its too late.

For chic inspiration, the chatter in this issue approaches Dubai’s glamorous Tala Samman, who has managed to create her own incredibly stylish universe out of a passion for gorgeous things.

In the culinary world, we have insider news from the prestigious gastronomic event that celebrates Dubai’s best fine dining restaurants, The BBC Good Food Middle East Awards. Find out which culinary experiences fanatics and experts have recognized as ‘Best of’ in fine dining (Page 75 ).

Relax and dip into the ultimate delicacy of Talise Ottoman Spa, chosen for your utmost relaxation and repose (page 40), and for a remoter retreat, we travel to Bordeaux, France – the world capital of vintage wine, vineyards & vibrant artistic scenes, in Travel on page 58 A deluge of deluxe indulgences and plush picks await you in the pages of this issue, so without further ado, enjoy HAUTE DUBAI! With warmest thanks,

HAUTE Publishing & Advertising

Editorial Team

P.O. Box 13294, Dubai - United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 258 3778 Fax: +971 4 258 3779 E-mail: info@hautedubaimagazine.com www.hautedubaimagazine.com © 2013 All rights reserved.

The publisher regrets that it cannot accept liability for any errors or inaccuracies printer, however caused. All articles contained within HAUTE DUBAI magazine are under copyright to the publisher and cannot be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without written permission of the publisher.

Follow Haute Dubai

twitter.com/HauteDubai

facebook.com/HauteDubai

16

Glam & the City Interview with Tala Samman Fashionista, Style Consultant & Founder of MyFashdiary.com

A former Fashion Editor at Style.com Arabia, Condé Nast’s first fashion title in the Middle East, Tala, was named one of Dubai’s Hot 100 in 2011. She has collaborated with Net-A-Porter, ASOS, Tom Ford, and Halston.

18

Let’s start by hearing a little about yourself, who is Tala Samman?

Of Syrian descent, born in Chicago, grown up in Dubai... A woman that loves fashion, but also lives a life that is so much more than that.

How did you get started blogging? What are your aspirations for your blog and web presence?

I started it as an online fashion diary, which led to a blog. My plans for my blog have always been short term, which is why everything has grown organically.

How would you describe your personal style?

I have an eclectic style – it really changes depending on the weather, my mood, the occasion, or what I’m inspired by.

Who or what has been your greatest style influence?

Marianne Faithful is definitely someone I’m hugely inspired by.

You do a lot of traveling, what are your links with Dubai, London and NY? All 3 cities feel like home! I grew up in Dubai, I lived in London for four years and studied there, I temporarily moved to NYC, but tend to visit frequently for long chunks of time.

Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?

Sophia Webster and Ostwald Helgason are definitely my favorite ones at the moment – so fun, and I could own their whole collections!

What does a city like Dubai have to offer you in everyday life?

Dubai is easy, comfortable, cosmopolitan and such a beautiful city! This is the year for Dubai, so much is starting up – it’s always buzzing. Viva Dubai!

What current season fashion trends do you like and dislike the most?

I love the colors and prints – and I never like to say what I dislike because I’ll probably end up wearing it!

Where would you shop for a gown or a cocktail dress for a special night inDubai?

I love heading to my favorite multi-brand boutiques such as S*uce, Symphony, Boutique1 and Harvey Nichols, as well as look online – if I have a week!

19

Bvlgari Serpenti:

a history, a legend, a signature

T

beauty channeled by a muse and symbol who is also the beholder of a magical power, an inspirational figure who enchants with the shimmer of rare serpent-shaped jewels, classic and contemporary, with a nod to the past and an eye on the future, as in the best Bvlgari tradition.

Sinuous yet geometric, each jewel is a work of art, pain-takingly crafted by Bvlgari’s master jewelers in its Roman workshops. A balance between classic Bvlgari and contemporary lines for a variety of forms suggested by the snake that transform its lithe body into wrap-around bracelets, rings and jewelwatches in single, double or triple coils.

An elegant play on chromatic subtleties and on transparent and matte textures. White, yellow or pink gold glittering with pavĂŠ diamonds, in delicate sprinklings or embossed with intricate baguette cuts, alternated or mixed with accents of rubellite, peridot, and moon quartz to emphasize the texture and movement of the dynamic creatures.

he snake, a longstanding design that has characterized the Bvlgari collections since the sixties, an emblem further consecrated by Elizabeth Taylor who was immortalized wearing a serpent-shaped watch on the Cleopatra set in 1962 and that still today, with the same spirit, represents a true corner stone for the venerable Roman jewelry house.

Snakes and Cleopatra are iconic elements that Bvlgari brings together in a contemporary manner by reinterpreting the legend, personified as a modern living goddess by Rachel Weisz for the new advertising campaign.

The Serpenti by Bvlgari has, for years, left its mark on the world of jewelry and watches. Time after time, this icon among wristwatches brilliantly reinvents itself. A symbol that is further celebrated in the new campaign where Rachel Weisz dips into a latter day Cleopatra becoming a contemporary Bvlgari divinity – beautiful and sensual, unreachable and in control. A quest for eternal

20

21

The Year of the Snake Ringing the Year with Provocative Jewelry

Welcome to the Year of the Snake, sensitivity, luxury, wisdom and good fortune are just some of the characteristics associated with people born under the sign of the Snake, which ushers in the Chinese New Year in 2013.

Coiled around wrists or slithering across dĂŠcolletage, this year, the snake-shaped jewelry is bursting in popularity.

The Ring: Bvlgari

The Necklace: Boucheron

Opalescent Serpentt is a reinterpretation of a great classic of the Maison, combined with the use of new materials, colors and technical expertise make this multiple-wear piece a signature Boucheron creation. Diamond, opal and rock crystal necklace.

Serpenti ring in 18 carat Pink Gold with Rubelite and Diamonds from the distinctive collection that draws inspiration from the power and dynamism of the serpent: the sinuous and flexible form of the creature lends itself to a variety of jewels and magnificent timepieces, destined to become a new icon of Bvlgari design.

The Earrings: Sidney Garber

Pearl, Diamond, and Ruby Snake Earrings. A pair of exquisite South Sea cultured pearls coiled in 18 carat white gold and diamond snakes with ruby eyes. Sure to rattle your admirers.

22

The Pendant: Carrera Y Carrera

Serpiente Maxi is a pendant for those who are most daring and bold – a jewel to wear and show off as an authentic work of art. The Serpiente Mini (Mini Snake) pendant, available in yellow gold and white gold with diamonds, is full of strength and life – a jewel to attract good fortune.

The Clutch: Alexander Mcqueen

Scaled snake skin box clutch in beige and grey. Gold tone trim and snake, skull & horn carry detail at front.

Swarovski crystal accents at skull.

Removable leather shoulder strap.

Black leather lining.

The Watch: Bvlgari

Serpenti quartz watch with an 18 carat pink gold case set with round brilliant-cut diamonds. It features a black sapphire dial and a two twirls 18 carat pink gold bracelet set with round brilliantcut diamonds.

The Bracelet: Ileana Makri 18 carat rose gold snake cuff featuring a 2.48-carat champagne diamond-encrusted double band construction with 0.04-carat tsavorite eyes at snake head.

23

Larger Than Life Long Wear Eyeliner in Rue De Rivoli NARS

Emerald palladiumplated Swarovski crystal and hematite cross earrings ROBERTO CAVALLI

Color Design Infinite in 500 Enduring Vert LANCOME

Emerald green draped dress with brooch ROBERTO CAVALLI

TREND ALERT

Color of the Year: Emerald “Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony.”

Emerald Green is a classic, historical color that’s symbolic of richness and royalty. It’s our most abundant color in nature and is both optimistic and comforting. Unlike last year’s Tangerine Tango it doesn’t seem “retro”. Instead, this classic selection feels innovative, adaptable and should be a hit.

Aqua Liner in 4 diamond Lagoon Green MAKE UP FOREVER

Emerald halterneck top green GUCCI

Sephora by O.P.I Nail Color in Come in Peas SEPHORA

Duo Eyeshadow in Misfit - A mini mirrored compact featuring two creaseproof NARS eye shadows in modern, complementary shades NARS

24

5-Colour Designer All-In-One Artistry Palette in Green Design DIOR

Emerald Double Breasted blazer REISS

Emerald shimmer leather forever crossbody bag FENDI

Emerald Cap Sleeves Lace Detail Gown

ELIE SAAB

Emerald scaled iPhone case GIVENCHY

24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Clinic URBAN DECAY Emerald palladium plated Swarovski crystal and hematite cross ring ROBERTO CAVALLI

25

A Hand-craft Indeed Owning a Hermes handbag is every woman’s dream, but for those who take pride in owning a whole collection of these very expensive Birkin bags, the French luxury brand has introduced four new Hermes Birkin bags crafted from gold and studded with precious gems and diamonds. The new collection is more haute jewelry than a collection of handbags.

Each of the four bags is adorned with a $1.9 million price tag.

Significantly smaller than their standard leather counterparts, the new Birkins are designed to be worn as bracelets due to their diamond studded strap and rath-

er miniature sized frame. In what looks like a leather based body, there seems to be an armor of rose gold with thousands of individually crafted diamonds around the bracelet strapping; this is bound to be something truly eye-watering.

Hermes has indeed gone a bit crazy with this bag taking the concept to luxurious fabrication onto another level altogether. Designer Pierre Hardy worked for 2 years to recreate the intricate specimens of design and perfectly craft each stone individually for this collection, there is a natural demand for the exclusivity factor here.

26

27

A Ritzy Splash

The Clive Christian No.1

“No. 1” is not an overstatement. Created without reference to cost to contain the most rare and precious natural ingredients, Clive Christian No.1 is the world’s most expensive perfume.

Elusive and intriguing with its serene and sophisticated attributes, No. 1 is a sweet bouquet of precious Indian Jasmine, Mandarin, and Sandalwood.

At the princely sum of $865, The Clive Christian No.1 for Men comes in a 50 ml gold colored opaque bottle. The smell is understated yet distinctive, ancient Indian Sandalwood and Arabian Jasmine Sambac impart the scent of an accomplished, uncompromising character.

No.1 for Women is serene and sophisticated with Indian Jasmine, Tahitian Vanilla and Rosa Centafolia associated with Aphrodite, Goddess of art, love, beauty and creativity. It comes in an ivory colored opaque bottle.

A pricier option for lovers of Clive Christian No. 1 is concentrated pure perfume, or parfum, in a lead-crystal bottle at a cost of $5,500. The equally divine bottle comes with a 24-carat gold-plated sterling silver neck adorned with a brilliantcut white diamond solitaire. The stopper is fashioned after Queen Victoria’s original. However, there are only 1,000 leadcrystal bottle editions released each year, making it immensely exclusive.

28

29

New Fragrances for the Alluring Woman

Fan di Fendi Notes: Pear-blackcurrant Accord, Tangerine from Calabria, Pink Peppercorn from Reunion Island, Damascena Rose, Yellow Jasmine Accord, Patchouli from Indonesia, Soft Leather Accord.

Shalimar Parfum by Guerlain Notes: Bergamot, Iris, Vanilla, Amber.

Calèche Eau Dèlicate

by Hermes Notes: Floral, Aldehyde, Woody, Chypre.

Gucci Guilty Notes: Mandarin, Pink Pepper, Peach, Lilac, Geranium, Amber, Patchouli.

N°5 EAU PREMIÈRE by Channel Notes: A decidedly lighter, fresher, softer interpretation of N°5.

30

Pour Femme

By Dolce & Gabbana Notes: Neroli, Raspberry, Green Mandarin, Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Guimauve, Vanilla, Heliotrope, Sandalwood.

Mon Jasmin Noir L’Eau Exquise

by Bvlgari Notes: Pink Pomelo, Fresh Green Almond, Jasmine White Tea, Jasmine, White Musks, Woods.

Première by GUCCI Notes: Bergamot, Orange Blossom, White Flower, Musk, Leather, Wood.

Manifesto By Yves Saint Laurent Notes: Green Wave, Bergamot, Black Currant, Sambac Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, Cedar, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Tonka Bean.

Infusion d’Iris By Prada Notes: Sicilian Mandarin, floral citrus, Florentine Iris Padilla.

New Fragrances for the Sophisticated Man

Armani Code Ultimate by Giorgio Armani

Notes: Grapefruit, Mandarin, Star Anise, Cedar, Cypress, Olive Blossom, Heliotrope Accords, Guaiac Wood, Tonka Bean, Vanilla.

Terre d’Hermès Notes: Orange, Grapefruit, Pepper, Flint, Vetiver, Cedar, Patchouli, Benzoin.

Versace Eros Notes: Mint Oil, Green Apple, Italian Lemon, Tonka, Venezuelan Ambroxan, Geranium Flowers.

Guilty Black Pour Homme By Gucci Eau de Cartier Essence de Bois Notes: Lavender, Violet Leaves, Oud, Patchouli, Musk, Ambergris.

32

Notes: Green Coriander, Lavender, Orange Flower, Neroli, Patchouli, Cedarwood.

Encounter By Calvin Klein Notes: Mandarin, Cardamom, Rum, Pepper, Egyptian Jasmine, Patchouli Cognac, Oud, Atlas Cedar, Musk.

Royal Oud

By Creed

The Game By Davidoff Notes: Gin, Juniper Berries, Iris, Precious Woods, Ebony Wood.

Notes: Lemon, Pink Berry, Bergamot, Cedar, Galbanum, Angelic Root, Regal Indian Oud, Sandalwood, Tonkin Musk.

Tom Ford Noir Notes: Italian Bergamot, Verbena, Caraway, Baie Rose (Pink Pepper), Violet Flower, Black Pepper, Nutmeg, Tuscan Iris Eesin, Egyptian Geranium, Bulgarian Rose, Clary Sage, Opoponax, Amber, Indonesian Patchouli, Vetiver, Civet, Vanilla.

Boss Bottled Night By Hugo Boss Notes: Birch, Lavender, Lemon Leaves, Cardamom, Jasmine, African Violet, Louro Amarelo, Musk, Sandalwood.

33

MONTBLANC

ʻCollection Princesse Grace de Monacoʼ

White Gold Wristwatch The haute joaillerie “Pétales de Rose motif” model is a ravishing and unique masterpiece of the jeweler’s art in eighteen carat white gold with nearly 8.8 carats of precious gemstones.

The bezel alone bears forty-four colorless baguette-cut diamonds, each of which is set by hand in accord with all the rules and usages of the jeweler’s art. The dial is crafted from mother-of-pearl with rhodium-plated hands and numerals, and accented by diamond motifs in the shape of rose petals. The form of these petals is echoed and appropriately continued by the white gold links of the playfully feminine haute joaillerie bracelet. Epitomizing superlative artistic craftsmanship and manufactured from the most precious materials, this creative masterpiece beautifully honors the unforgettable style of the lady whose name it eternalizes.

34

Red Gold Wristwatch The “Pétales Entrelacés motifʼʼ high jewelry watch model is the second unique wristwatch created in honor of the unforgotten Princess Gracia of Monaco and to benefit her nonprofit foundation. Here too, the watch’s creators have combined precious ingredients, meticulous craftsmanship and ingenious creativity to produce a little masterpiece of which only one piece exists in the entire world. The bezel is beautified with forty-four baguette-cut diamonds and the crown is embellished with the patented Montblanc diamond: a limpid white diamond, cut with forty-three facets into the shape of Montblancʼs logo. The white mother-of-pearl dial bears twelve petal-shaped hour indices plated with red gold and studded with twelve diamonds.”

The background is a fine engraving of interlaced lines which continue into the haute joaillerie bracelet: this little artwork, consisting in part of individual moveable links, is entirely handcrafted from eighteen carat red gold and is adorned, in accord with all the rules and usages of the jeweler’s art, with 576 diamonds weighing a total of 6.842 carats. Itʼs an imperishable homage to the unforgotten Princess of Monaco, whose charitable heart and unstinting dedication are honored in this precious and unique artwork.

Limited Edition of Eight Timepieces The watches in this lavishly gemstone-studded limited edition are affixed to alligator-leather straps, so the number of carats is significantly lower than on the unique editions. But each gem sparkles with all the fire of a precious diamond. There are forty-four baguette-cut diamonds on the bezel and thirty-two baguette-cut diamonds on the horns, as well as a pave of 130 diamonds on the flange, diamondstudded hour indices, a finely wasp-waisted rain of diamonds that look as though they were trickling through the neck of a sandglass and, of course, a pink sapphire at “6 o’clock.” Here too the crown is adorned with an exclusive Montblanc diamond weighing 0.055 carat.

The mother-of-pearl dial shimmers with the same ivory hue as the bracelet, which is crafted from alligator leather with large reptilian scales.

35

Haute Couture for Sirens Versace Atelier

to measure for one person only, Atelier Versace is the ultimate expression of the designer’s art.

These dresses are made for an elite, who know how to maximize their impact on the red carpet – created for powerful women like Angelina Jolie, Nickole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez, Claudia Schiffer…

Exclusive, glamorous, the most precious as goddesses require, the Atelier Versace collection is breathtaking and unique haute couture for sirens.

These garments – predominantly evening and cocktail dresses – feature all the intricacies that the refined craftsmanship of couture, the making by hand, allows. Single pieces, designed and made

36

37

A Culinary Jewel

Dine in an Atmosphere of Old World Elegance and Sophistication

A

culinary jewel at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Vôi elegantly embraces the romance and spirit of French colonial Southeast Asia in the 1920s.

Step into this charmingly stylish restaurant and embark on a tastefully crafted journey, inspired by authentic French-Vietnamese cuisine.

Sophisticated and elegant with soaring

ceilings that give the space a sense of grandeur, this fine dining Vietnamese and French Colonial restaurant serves cuisine which vividly captures the beauty, romance and spirit of French colonial Southeast Asia. Dine off fine bone china under glittering crystal chandeliers and enjoy an extensive selection of beverages or sample the in-house cocktails specially prepared by Vôi’s creative mixologist.

38

Sampler Menu Cold Appetiser

• Sautéed king prawn salad with tangy guava - fennel salad, Nuoc Mam dressing • Fresh spring roll with smoked salmon with Vietnamese coriander and ginger - Rau Mui dipping sauce

Hot entrée • Prawn, chanterelle mushroom and fried shallot ravioli goat cheese quenelle and spring onion chlorophyll • Breaded crisp tofu and egg dumpling with cashew nuts and tangy herb salad

Soup • Ginger and lime scented chicken soup with shallots and rice noodles • Tomato beef consommé with Vietnamese mint and kafir lime

Seafood Main Course • Seared lobster tail with black beans and bean sprouts served with a mango-artichoke salad • Steamed salmon on a green pea purée, sautéed baby octopus and clam-green lime broth

Meat Main Course • Sautéed veal medallion with black pepper, tomato, shallots and cepe mushrooms served with edamame beans

Dessert • Iced cantaloupe soup mint oil and red fruit sorbet

39

Swanky Dining Okku

Introducing a new style of contemporary Japanese cuisine to the Middle East dining scene and catering to discerning fish and meat lovers, and vegetarians alike. For the first time, “cutting” edge service, style, and design are combined with a see-and-be-seen atmosphere that is set to revolutionize the Dubai restaurant scene and ele­vate it to a whole new level. Okku has scanned the globe to put together one of the hottest management and kitchen teams in the industry, comprising connoisseurs who have relocated to Dubai to set a new standard in modern Japanese cuisine.

Cuisine: Japanese Location: The H Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 501 8777

Options by Sanjeev Kapoor Dazzling decor, exquisite grandeur, warm Indian Hospitality & handpicked recipes from Chef Sanjeev Kapoor. Options by Sanjeev Kapoor encompasses the ultimate dining experience which is un-paralleled in this gastronomically competitive city.

Explore the exhilarating menu offering a fine selection of Indian appetizers, main courses, desserts & Chef’s specials.

Enhance the cascade of delicate & fresh flavors with an exquisite & distinct beverage collection carefully selected for variety & quality. Enjoy this fascinating experience which compliments the atmosphere from appetizers to desserts.

Cuisine: Indian Location: DWTC, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 329 3293

Ronda Locatelli At Ronda Locatelli, celebrity chef Giorgio Locatelli creates a rustic, warm and inviting Italian restaurant that blends the charm of the Italian countryside with the modernity of Dubai. Authentic, classic Italian cuisine from North and South Italy is blended seamlessly with new flavors using fresh and seasonal ingredients. The heart of this Italian restaurant is undoubtedly the wood-fired brick oven, which will entice you with the aromas of fresh breads, handmade pizzas and al forno dishes as soon as you walk through the door. And that’s before you’ve even sampled the antipasti and delicate pastas from a family-style menu, reinforcing the sense of tradition and homeliness.

Cuisine: Italian Location: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 426 2626

40

Asado

The Ivy The Ivy Restaurant, Bar and Jazz Lounge is an elegant and relaxed international brasserie open for lunch, dinner and Friday Brunch. With a big reputation behind it, The Ivy Dubai, like its London counterpart, is a place to see and be seen. With top-rated service and a menu to suit all tastes and pockets, The Ivy is the perfect venue for both business and pleasure. The Ivy Jazz Lounge plays host to some of the region’s hottest jazz musicians on Tuesday and Thursday nights and all day Friday.

Cuisine: British Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 319 8767

The lively Argentinian Grill serves premium meat cuts prepared Asado Criollo-style on an open Parrilla grill in the center of the restaurant. Featuring an a la carte menu, and a set menu offering the best options of Argentinian cuisine as well as the largest collection of Argentinian beverages in the Middle East.

The Family First menu, offers an Asado Grill set menu, seven days a week. Dine outside to make the most of the terrace and enjoy views of The Dubai Fountain or relax in the warmly lit interior whilst enjoying the warm ambiance. The restaurant also provides live entertainment.

Cuisine: Argentinian Location: The Palace, The Old Town, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 428 7888

Al Nafoorah Al Nafoorah features an authentic selection of Lebanese cuisine.

Enjoy a wide selection of mezzeh, main courses and desserts in surroundings which echo traditional Arabic and Lebanese character. The rich wood crafted walls and ceilings create a cosy ambience which is further enhanced by Arabic music and live performances seven days a week.

Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern Location: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 453 0444

Roberto’s Benvenuti a Roberto’s, where fine Italian dining meets contemporary design, presenting a cosmopolitan experience for Dubai’s discerning clientele. With pure Italian flair, Roberto Rella and his A-list team have come together to create a homegrown concept that blends a Roman passion for food, Riccione hospitality, and Milanese style to the Dubai gastronomic scene. Reinterpreting Italian cuisine, the Roberto’s team introduces to Dubai a distinct culinary experience of both the familiar and new by offering classic and modern Italian cuisine including signature dishes.

Roberto’s houses three refreshing concepts under one roof: the elegant main dining room, Il Ristorante, the buzzing lounge, Il Salotto, and an open air terrace, La Terrazza. Combined, these three areas create a unique sense of belonging appropriate for all occasions.

Cuisine: Italian Location: DIFC, Dubai Tel.: +971 4 386 0066

41

Luxurious Pampering Talise Ottoman Spa

A unique destination to soothe mind, body and soul Ottomans with the finest products, modern-day spa technology and luxury. At the heart of the spa, is an authentic and spectacular Turkish spa and hammam. Throughout the centuries, the hammam was not only a place for bathing; it was a cultural tradition revered as a focal point for relaxing, meeting friends, associates and celebrating special events. Today, this timeless tradition continues.

Meander along the palatial surroundings of the Spa, crafted marble, ornate mosaics and stunning murals combined with the heady scent of exotic oils and enigma of hushed spa walkways. With exclusive treatment rooms and a pri-

On the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah lays Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, a magnificent tribute to the ancient palaces of the Ottoman Era. Within this spectacular palace, behind immense and ornately carved doors, awaits Dubai’s bestkept secret, Talise Ottoman Spa. As one of the largest and most luxurious spas in the Middle East, Talise Ottoman Spa boasts 42 individual treatment rooms and three grand traditional Turkish hammams across two levels between the male, female and couples sections.

Begin a journey of wellbeing which combines the ancient healing philosophies of the

42

43

Signature Treatments

vate hammam area available on the mezzanine level of the spa, this designated couples’ floor provides an idyllic backdrop for a romantic treat. The collection of treatments can be expertly tailored to anniversary celebrations or just an afternoon of quality time together. Enjoy aromatic Arabian teas and spa beverages while you unwind or socialise in the relaxation areas. Within your reach are the finest facilities and dining experiences, providing you with all the benefits of Dubai’s most opulent resort.

Large private treatment and relaxation rooms provide the perfect location for a unique celebration. From baby showers and birthdays, to bachelorette parties and simply a day out with the ladies, Talise Ottoman Spa provides a bespoke party service for the ultimate unique event.

Explore a medley of indulgences that have been created for your relaxation and wellbeing.

Discover pampering offerings that are deeply steeped in spa tradition, each uniquely imaginative and exhilarating.

Thoughtful and generous, culturally connected and exclusive to Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, these signature selections draw upon the healing powers of nature and ancient philosophies.

Hammam

Royal Ottoman Hammam

Massage

Muscle-Ease Sultan’s Massage

Facials

Radiant Date Face Rain Forest Renew

Body

Desert Sand Body Scrub The Experience

For Him

Ultimate Facial

Couple’s Spa Velvet Night

Combination Packages Selection of Arabia

Talise Ottoman Spa is located in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah Tel: +971 4 453 0000

44

Distinctive Class and Sophistication The Cigar Lounge

convenience of al fresco seating, The Cigar Lounge is the definitive destination for the city’s trend-setters and connoisseurs, offering one of its kind views of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and tailored to The Address’ philosophy of ‘Where life happens’.

An ideal getaway to network or unwind, The Cigar Lounge is stylishly designed and

In the company of like-minded individuals and high-flyers, yet with the need for privacy carefully safeguarded, The Cigar Lounge is where business associations can be strengthened, camaraderie fostered, or one can relax totally, pampering oneself with one’s favorite after-work indulgences.

Located on Level 13 with the added

46

47

evokes the charm and magnetism that befits the high profile of its visitors, complemented with personalized service, an unbeatable menu of premium beverages and a choice of the finest cigars from around the world. The ambience of the outlet is heightened by the strains of jazz and lounge music.

Reflecting the sophisticated elegance that is underlined by The Cigar Lounge, its food offerings include exquisite delicacies from around the world – each selection a proud declaration of the social standing and the class-apart lifestyle of the guest.

Cigar connoisseurs will appreciate its unrivalled portfolio of 40 renowned cigar brands, from the medium-bodied Cohiba Siglo VI to the Davidoff Limited Edition Toro 2009. A premium selection of limited edition labels is available, including the Ashton Petite Corona, Robusto and Churchill, which are exclusive to The Cigar Lounge. Classic cocktails are complemented by a hand-selected collection of global vintages and a refined menu selection featuring foie gras au torchon, Caspian

48

benefits and superior service standards. The 63-storey hotel has 196 luxury rooms and suites, and offers an array of amenities including diverse restaurants, lounges and a Spa.

caviar, carpaccio of Angus fillet, Scottish salmon and French artisanal cheeses.

The Address Downtown Dubai assures a luxury hotel experience defined by its central location, tangible guest

49

Lofty Living

A Lavishing Roundup of Opulent Home Design

The affluent lifestyle of Dubai is renowned all around the world especially when it comes to extravagant luxury seafront villas and premier condominiums and penthouses with stunning views. It goes without saying that a property with an eight digit price tag is going to have sleek interiors and opulence in design. As celebrated designer furniture brands from all over the globe race to make a stand in Dubai, wealthy residents, known for enjoying only the best of life, are becoming more adventurous with their choices and moving away from boring, austere, mass-produced looks, towards more glamourous and edgier styles. Transform your home with this roundup of magnificent interior design and furniture options:

50

Flamant Way beyond any fashion trend or system, Flamant Home Interiors has established its own cozy style, both elegant and casual. A style that is not flashy, but insinuates itself via the comfort of an armchair or the craftsmanship of a hand-sewn curtain.

Location: Mall of the Emirates Tabouret Bayou Round With Cushion Flamant

Versace Home The conjunction of opposites is the formula of the Versace Home, whose main sources of inspiration: neoclassic, baroque and ultra-modern, create an everlasting flow of unexpected harmonies.

The essence of the Versace style is the appeal of precious materials with a strong taste for vibrant colors and bold ideas. The collection explores every room of the home, offering a wide selection of bed linen, bath towels, table cloths, furniture, lamps and accessories. Two parallel and contrasting moods: classic and modern, offering a variety of sophisticated hints and inspirations for very contemporary homes.

Location: The Dubai Mall

Francesco Molon All the decorative elements of Francesco Molon furniture are handmade creating individual furniture pieces that are veritable works of art, revivals of furniture artistry in the classical European style.

Location: Pyramid Centre, Bur Dubai

Ralph Lauren Home American Designer for Premium lifestyle products in apparel, home, accessories and fragrances. Ralph Lauren has always stood for providing quality products.

Location: The Dubai Mall 51

Ethan Allen American home fashion and interior design company offering the luxurious convenience of one-stop shopping for the well-designed home. Ethan Allen has a reputation for quality, fine detail, and impeccable modern style.

Location: The Dubai Mall

Roche Bobois Roche Bobois is a French company and a leader in high-quality furniture. Has over 240 stores worldwide with cutting edge designs created by renowned designers. The collections are inspired by rustic furniture and reinvented classics as well as modern designs offering beautiful and functional furniture.

Location: Barsha 1st, Sheikh Zayed

Grand Royal Furniture Grand Royal has exclusive selling rights within Abu Dhabi for famous Italian furniture and lighting brands such as Blumarine, Ipe Cavalli, Rozzoni, Faustig, Mechini, Alexander’s Collection and others. Grand Royal provides turnkey interior solutions starting right from the architectural drawings and the building of the space all the way to interior design and its implementation with the help of famous Italian designers. The pieces of furniture art from Grand Royal Company which is a network of high-end Italian interior design and luxury furniture showrooms are designed for the most discerning buyer.

Location: Das Tower, Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi

52

Laura Ashley The Laura Ashley style is characterized

by Romantic English designs often with a 19th-century rural feel and the use of natural fabrics.

Locations: The Dubai Mall and Various Locations in the UAE

Bloomingdale’s Home Bloomingdale’s Home is spread across 54,000 square feet over one level including Textiles & Luxury Lines, Housewares, Tabletop & Crystal, Furniture and Services including Model Rooms, Demonstration Kitchen and an Interior Design Studio.

Location: The Dubai Mall

Carpe Diem Carpe Diem is a luxury furniture shop which offers a wide range of fine quality European-made furniture and accessories. Carpe Diem also boasts a superior interior design consultancy service, to help you create the ideal home or office space. At Carpe Diem you will find leading furniture brand Grange which includes a vast array of furniture pieces to adorn homes, as well as offices in both classic and contemporary style and brands of household products such as La Cornue and Vincent Shepard Location: Villa 145A – Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates 53

Cultivating Art in the Emirates UAE – Towards Becoming A World Class Art Destination ART AND CULTURE IS AN EMERGING AND VIBRANT SCENE IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. AS DUBAI AND ABU DHABI BECOME MORE POPULAR FOR THEIR WELL KNOWN ATTRACTIONS, THE NEW GALLERIES, ART FAIRS AND PRESENCE OF AN INCREASING NUMBER OF ARTISTS, HAS FOSTERED A GROWING NUMBER OF ART PATRONS AND COLLECTORS.

of the Middle East. The Fair hosts nearly seventy galleries from the Middle East, Asia, Europe, North and South America, North Africa and Australia. In addition, there has been a strong programme of artists’ projects, including the launch of the Abraaj Capital Art Prize and the critically acclaimed Global Art Forum.

Several international art fairs now take place in Dubai and the capital. Art Dubai and Bastakiya Art Fair are of particular note in Dubai. Art Dubai takes place every March at the Madinat Arena. As the first contemporary art fair in Dubai, the Fair has become a cornerstone for the rapidly growing art community

54

Art Dubai is part of Art Week, the umbrella initiative that includes Sikka Art Fair, Design Days Dubai, and a range of contemporary art and design events, major museum shows, and new gallery exhibitions and artists’ projects. Art Week positions the Gulf as a place of artistic production and home to multiple cultural centres.

In the capital, following a successful Abu Dhabi Art 2012, the fifth edition in November this year will present an even more exciting programme of art, talks, and performances that bring together the world’s top galleries, artists, notable cultural icons, collectors and visitors from across the globe.

Much more than an art fair, Abu Dhabi Art is a unique platform for modern and contempoThe Louvre Abu Dhabi rary art and design as well as a carefully curated public programme.

Abu Dhabi Art is an international platform aiming to create awareness, education and the continuation of artistic and cultural interest through selected exhibition galleries, vast showcased works, and talking platforms featuring art world academics, connoisseurs, patrons and

55

leading and emerging artists from every field of the visual arts.

The fourth edition of Abu Dhabi Art firmly established Saadiyat Island as a world class art hub and consolidates Abu Dhabi’s legacy as the cultural destination of the future - Saadiyat Cultural District (currently home to the Manarat Al Saadiyat exhibition center and UAE Pavilion) will soon be the home to the Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Louvre Abu Dhabi.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi will be the first universal museum in the Arab world. Hatched through an agreement between the governments of Abu Dhabi and France, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, due to open in 2015, will display art, manuscripts and objects of historical, cultural and sociological significance. Spanning millennia, the items on display will originate from societies and cultures all over the world, but universal themes and common influences will be highlighted to illustrate similarities arising from shared human experience, transcending geography, nationality and history.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi, described by its creator, Jean Nouvel, as an ‘island on an island’.

Within the vast ‘floating’ dome of the Louvre Abu Dhabi will be a whole new world, where a rain of light patterns illuminate a micro-city of small galleries, lakes and landscaping.

56

The Definitive Luxury Car Jaguar XJ Ultimate Jaguar has always been among the luxury car makers but with the new XJ Ultimate, Jaguar took the luxury to the next level. Unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show, the XJ Ultimate turned heads with surprisingly upscale features on the exterior, with the interior concentrating on luxury particularly for rear passengers.

Luxury features in the XJ Ultimate include an aluminum worktable for rear seat occupants, a champagne chiller, two separate, fully-reclining rear seats with massage functionality and fitted iPads in the back of the front seats. Moreover, the XJ Ultimate has a specially designed 15-channel, 20-speaker surround sound system engineered by Meridian and a rear-seat entertainment package with twin headrest-mounted screens and wireless headphones. The interior is finished in Herringbone veneer, machined aluminum and LED lighting for the added luxury effect.

The XJ Ultimate gets a reworked suspension for improved ride comfort and unique 20-inch ‘Maroa’ forged alloy wheels. It is equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 supercharged engine that produces 510bhp and it is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It still is a pity that the owner may not even bother for a ride behind the wheel, but one wouldn’t want to miss out on the smooth ride ensured by the 20-inch wheels and the specially-adjusted suspension.

The Jaguar XJ is all about arriving in style and comfort, so if those values appeal to you then it’s time to visit your Jaguar showroom.

57

A Tale of Noble Linage

Rolls-Royce One Thousand and One Nights Bespoke Ghost Collection

Inspired by the famous tales of the Arabian Nights, “One Thousand and One Nights”, the limited edition Rolls-Royce Ghost is a new benchmark in the company’s history.

A series of two-tone paint schemes, specially

58

created by the bespoke team at the home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England, draws on a warm color palette that serves as the perfect backdrop for handpainted coachlines. These intricately applied detail touches, expressing the Arabic words ‘One Thousand and One Nights’, culminate in an elaborate design that elegantly frames the car’s door handles.

Regarded as one of the region’s most famous works of literature, the epic tales told by Scheherazade to Shahryar have captivated readers and storytellers for centuries. This collection comes as a testament to the ability of Rolls-Royce to take inspiration from a rich array of cultures.

The limited ‘One Thousand and One Nights Bespoke Ghost Collection’ was introduced at the Sharjah International Automobile Show on 28 November 2012, unveiling chapter one of the

three chapters launch. Chapters two and three will follow in the first and third quarter of 2013 respectively.

The special edition will come with a 6.6 liter V12 with twin turbochargers. At 5250 rpm, the Ghost is capable of generating 563 HP, it also provides 575 lbs-ft of torque, allowing it to hit a top speed of 155 mph.

59

Elegant Bordeaux “The World Capital of Vintage Wine, Vineyards & Vibrant Artistic Scenes”

Place de la Bourse is part of the Port of the Moon, Bordeaux,

which has been listed by UNESCO as World Heritage since 2007

60

flat city’s wide quays curve graciously around the Garonne River to the reconverted Bassins à Flot docks, past Gothic churches, 19th-century factories, tree-shaded thoroughfares and 18th-century merchant’s mansions.

You’ll be raising your glass many times in Bordeaux, which is renowned for its wines, considered amongst the best in the world.

The city has been hailed the great urban aesthetic triumph of western France. It has one million inhabitants in its metropolitan area.

After years of neglect, the former wet docks are the country’s new hot spot, with a number of cafés, gardens, and museums springing up all the time. The cultural, artistic, and music scenes are very vibrant. The city was ruled by the English for a long time, which is why Bordeaux seems to have an English flair.

The city center is located west and south of the Garonne. To the east are a few hills - the only ones in the vicinity. These hills mark the beginning of an industrial zone and suburbs.

Because it is a flat city, bicycles make excellent modes of transport, especially as the city has more than 580 km of cycle tracks. Bordeaux is among the most economically dynamic cities in France.

The center of the town has retained its traditional stone mansions and smart terraces, hence the reason behind the city being called “Little Paris”. Modern buildings can be found to the west and south of the city.

The city of Bordeaux, capital of Aquitaine and the fifth-largest city in France, is the hub for the legendary wine châteaux of St-Emilion and Médoc. They welcome you to their vineyards all year round. Away from the trestles, Bordeaux gives generously, too. The

Bordeaux river bridge with St Michel cathedral

61

Grand Hotel de Bordeaux

Staying in Bordeaux Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa www.ghbordeaux.com

Hotel Burdigala

Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is a 5-star hotel in the center of Bordeaux. Enjoying an incredible location in the city’s historic heart, it sits directly opposite the famous Grand Theatre in the pedestrian streets of Bordeaux’s Golden Triangle. This luxury hotel is easily accessible, sitting just 2.1km from Gare Saint-Jean and 10km from BordeauxMérignac Airport. Guests can relax in the luxurious hotel spa facilitated to international standards.

When it comes to dining, guests are spoilt for choice with several gourmet options and stylish bars. The incredible Michelinstarred hotel restaurant, Le Pressoir d’Argent, features an innovative menu created by Pascal Nibaudeau. Spectacular views of Bordeaux can be enjoyed from the rooftop bar. Each of the guestrooms at Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa was designed by the renowned Jacques Garcia. The hotel’s history is evident in the classic and opulent 19th century-style interiors. Luxurious modern amenities sit alongside marble bathtubs and plush textiles.

Hotel Burdigala Bordeaux - MGallery Collection www.burdigala.com

This is the most appealing hotel in Bordeaux’s core. It is well-manicured, tasteful, and experienced at welcoming international travelers. Situated just a short walk from the historic center, the Burdigala Hotel owes its name to the ancient Gallo-Roman city now known as Bordeaux. Its decor is contemporary and refined. Once over the threshold, forget the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in a warm and peaceful atmosphere. The 83 rooms and suites are decorated with luxurious materials in complementary colors, to inspire calm and tranquility. And of course, being in Bordeaux, the wine cellar next to the restaurant offers an excellent selection of prestigious Bordeaux wines to accompany the exquisite cuisine on offer, featuring regional products.

62

Chateau Grand Barrial Hotel & Spa

Fast Facts for Planning a Trip Currency: Euro

Climate: Summer season starts in June through August and is long and hot while the winters from December to February are wet and mild. Humidity, however, is prevalent all-round the year, irrespective of the weather and season. Boudreaux most soothing weather is in Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).

Seasons: The peak tourist season is in July and August, The ideal time to visit Bordeaux is May and June or September and October when the city experiences a dip in the tourist rush and is the perfect time to witness the harvest season.

Chateau Grand Barrial Hotel & Spa www.grand-barrail.com

Next to the famous wine producing châteaux of Saint-Emilion, and close to the Medieval City, stands the imposing architecture of the only 19th Century Château Hotel of the Bordelais right bank: the Grand Barrail Hotel Restaurant & Spa. Surrounded by a park of 3 acres, the Hotel Grand Barrail, 4 Stars Hotel, member of a Small Luxury Hotels of the World has 41 rooms and 5 suites spread among four buildings: the Château, the Residence, the Maison du Bien-Être and the Maison du Vignoble.

Getting Around: Three lines of a new modern tram system – labeled A, B, and C – have made traveling around Bordeaux easier than at any time in its history. The combined bus and tram system serves both inner Bordeaux and its suburbs.

Attractions Strolls through Town The prettiest and most historic neighborhood in Old Bordeaux is the “golden triangle,” defined by cours Clemenceau, cours de l’Intendance, and les allées de Tourny. You can traipse around the old town on your own, because it’s fairly compact, or take advantage of the 2-hour walking tour the tourist office arranges daily. If you go it alone, your tour of Old Bordeaux can begin in the heart of this old city at place de la Comédie, a busy traffic hub that was once the site of a Roman temple. On this square, one of France’s great theaters, Grand Théâtre, place de la Comédie, the city’s cultural symbol, was built between 1773 and 1780 as testimony to the burgeoning prosperity of Bordeaux’s emerging bourgeoisie. This is one of the last remaining 18th-century theaters in the world, rivaling those of Naples, Stockholm, and Milan. A colonnade of 12 columns graces its facade. Surmounted on these are statues of goddesses and the Muses. If you’d

Narrow streets of Bordeaux

63

Château Margaux

like to visit the richly decorated interior, ask about the schedule of weekly guided tours.

From here you can walk north to esplanade des Quinconces. It was laid out between 1818 and 1828, and covers nearly 12 hectares (30 acres). A smaller but lovelier square is place de la Bourse, bounded by quays opening onto the Garonne. It was laid out between 1728 and 1755; the fountain of the Three Graces is at its center. Flanking the square are the Custom House and the Stock Exchange.

Lalande, with fairy-tale turrets and a fascinating glassware collection.

Exploring Bastide This re-vamped industrial area is best accessed via the Pont de Pierre, the arched bridge Napoleon built so his armies could march across the Garonne. Views from here are stunning, but they’re nothing compared to the panoramas awaiting on the Bastide side, especially at night when you can watch the whole of Bordeaux’s river front sparkle in one sweep. During the day, the botanical gardens off rue Linné make for a tranquil afternoon, with re-creations of local habitats and sparkling tropical glasshouses.

Wine Tasting It could be in a restaurant or on a shaded cafe terrace; or it might be in a world-famous winery or during an oenology lesson at the Maison du Vin. Wherever you taste Bordeaux’s wine, you’re in for a treat. The region has not less than 57 wine appellations and some thousands of châteaux, many of which lie off the D2 road in the Médoc north of the city center. One of the prettiest châteaux to visit along the way is Château Pichon-Longueville-Comtesse-de-

Partying in the Bassin a Flot North of the Chartrons, this former dock area is where Bordelais folk come to party all night long. Riverboats have been converted into bars and nightclubs, former warehouses now house restaurants, and the whole area

64

important churches. Foremost among the “secondary” churches is the Basilique St-Michel. The church itself, constructed in stages from the 14th to the 16th century, is incredibly charming. More impressive is the Flêche St-Michel tower across the street. This tower, erected in 1472, is the second-tallest stone tower in France after the cathedral at Strasbourg. Huff and puff your way up the 228 steps for breathtaking cityscapes over Bordeaux’s steely rooftops and the glistening Garonne.

Another historic church is Basilique StSeurin. Its most ancient sections, such as its crypt, date from the 5th century. See the porch left over from an earlier church; it has some capitals from the Romanesque era.

Abbatiale Ste-Croix gained attention in musical circles when its organ, a marvel built by a monk, Dom Bedos, was restored to its original working order in 1996. The church, a severe Romanesque structure from the 11th and 12th centuries, is revered for its stately dignity.

Musée des Beaux has an outstanding collection from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

Works by Perugina, Titian, Rubens, Veronese, Delacroix, and Marquet are on display.

Saint-André Cathedral in Bordeaux

Basilique Saint-Seurin

feels very laid-back and funky. There’s even an ice bar on quai de Bacalan, where cool crowds dress up like Eskimos to sip scrumptious frozen cocktails in sub-zero temperatures.

Churches & Museums The largest and most ostentatious church in Bordeaux is the Cathédrale St-André, place Pey-Berland, near the southern perimeter of the old town. The sculptures on the 13th-century Porte Royale (Royal Door) are admirable; see also the 14th-century sculptures on the North Door. Separate from the rest of the church is the Tour Pey-Berland, a belfry begun in the 15th century. Foundations date from 900 years ago.

Bordeaux, always a magnet for power, money, and ecclesiastical zeal, has four other

65

live “electro-jazz”; and La Casa Latina, where merengue, salsa, and bachata might make you think that you’ve landed in the Dominican Republic or Brazil. A good choice for dancing is La Plage, with its 1970s decor and just as classic 25- to 45-year-old crowd.

Nightlife and Entertainment Sensible by day, Bordeaux rocks by night. Bars and bistros line the Garonne’s Quays, leading well-dressed crews to the chic clubs at Bassins à Flot. For something more sophisticated, the Grand Théâtre is a sumptuous neo-classical venue used for top-notch opera. A play or an opera could make a good start to your evening. Grand Théâtre, place de la Comédie, has a busy, diverse performance schedule. In the trendy Bastide district, just across the Pont de Pierre, lights from Bordeaux’s rows of mansions twinkle seductively.

Two trendy, glamorous bars are L’ Absolute Lounge, which occasionally schedules

Restaurants and Dining

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and fertile land, Bordeaux gets the best of both worlds. Tantalize your taste buds with melt-in-your-mouth Arcachon oysters, tender Pauillac lamb, Aquitaine beef, Périgord truffles, prunes from Agen, and St-Emilion macaroons. The elegant quays are freckled with contemporary eateries, or take your

66

alleyway a few steps from the church.

For fashion, go to the couture quarter around place des Grands Hommes as well as the cours Georges-Clemenceau, with its many upscale, trendy, and classic emporiums. For the greatest concentration of shops, head to the rue Ste-Catherine, the longest pedestrian street in France. It has at least 100 boutiques, from the most luxurious to the cheapest.

Galerie Condillac is one of the classier art houses that specializes in mostly local artists who paint with strong, vibrant colors. For a sugar rush, head over to Cadiot Badie, where the specialty for many decades has been sinfully flavorful chocolates, chocolate truffles, and pralines.

If you’ve come to Bordeaux to buy wine, try to choose one that carries personal significance because you’ve visited the vineyard, or consult the experts at the wine shops.

pick along rue St-Rémi and place du Parlement where French, Chinese and Italian restaurants fight for space. For a Michelin-starred treat, Le Chapon Fin has been serving gourmet French cuisine since 1825. You can also try the restaurants at Mercure Château Chartrons and Mercure Bordeaux Centre.

Shopping

If you want antiques, concentrate your search around rue Bouffard, rue des Remparts, and rue Notre-Dame, where you’ll find a market area known as Village Notre-Dame, housing about 30 antiques shops. Another destination is the neighborhood around Eglise St-Michel, particularly the passage St-Michel, a narrow

Shopping Area in Bordeaux

67

Iconic Brands at an Iconic Venue

World Luxury Expo Dubai Inaugurated as the main event of the Dubai Shopping Festival 2013, the World Luxury Expo mirrored the privileged lifestyle that Dubai Enjoys. More than AED 250 million worth of luxury products were on show at an invitation-only three-day event to high-net worth private clientele from across the GCC region.

The event closed off with a sky-high success celebrationof Aston Martin’s – the leading British luxury automotive brand – hundred year anniversary, airlifting the latest Vanquish in spectacular style onto the helipad of the world’s most luxurious and iconic hotel, Burj Al Arab – the befitting venue where the expo took place. Live transmission was beamed around the globe to Aston Martin territories in over 150 countries and announced the finale of the inaugural World Luxury Expo while celebrating the Aston Martin centenary.

This highly exclusive event was witnessed by his highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the British ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Dominic Jermey, festivals coordinator general at DEPE, Ibrahim Saleh and other esteemed dignitaries.

This edition of the World Luxury Expo showcased the world’s leading luxury brands across a selection of carefully selected cat-

Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Celebration in Dubai

egories including fine art, high-end jewelry & fashion, hand-crafted time pieces, designer furniture and exquisite table settings, automobiles, fine dining, private aviation, and luxury travel. All participating exhibitors are leaders in their respective fields, executing superior design qualities and always striving for the ultimate in quality and perfection and sharing the common vision to further entrench Dubai as a luxury and lifestyle destination.

In the highlights, Agha Jewelry presented a collection of pieces that have been pri-

68

vately curated over many years from all over the world. A rare glimpse into this collection reveals a sword that dates back to the 16th century; the blade is hand-made from original Jawhar and is covered in pure 22K gold. In addition to this, a one-off Fabergé Imperial Egg that is part of a museum-quality Fabergé collection that captures the very essence of the magnificent and historic Fabergé tradition.

Other special pieces in this collection included an original Holy Quran, hand-written with gold water with the pages made out of pure

gazelle leather, originating from Damascus.

Another example of the unique collector’s pieces that were featured at World Luxury Expo is a one-off bespoke Steinway Crystal Roc Piano, the crystalized 1/6 scale model grand piano was revealed for the first time ever. The full scale version is valued at AED 12 million.

Comments Vincent Corver, Manager of Steinway Piano Gallery, CDC – Qatar, “A Steinway is an instrument of the finest quality and through

69

our association with the Crystal Roc, there is the opportunity to own an extraordinarily distinctive, bespoke Steinway grand piano that is the perfect blend of sophistication and glamour.”

The most expensive Hastens bed in the world at AED 390,000 that has been tailormade for many well-known and respected global icons and celebrities was also presented that day. Julian Alibhai, Exclusive Distributor of Hastens beds in the GCC, said “Hastens is globally recognized as being the ultimate producer of the world’s greatest handmade and bespoke beds using only the finest allnatural materials, and has been doing so for the last 160 years in Sweden. This combined knowledge has been brought together to create the bed of your dreams. “ Montegrappa showcased the Ultimate Centennial Dragon fountain pen at AED 3.1m.

In fine art, ProArt Gallery showcased artworks from renowned artists, Damien Hirst and Andy Warhol whilst Swiss Art Gate UAE featured selected pieces from the German artist, George Classen.

In the Grand Pavilion, located on the Burj Al Arab Marina Garden, invited guests viewed the latest ladieswear collections from acclaimed designers, Alexander McQueen and Alaia, as well as luxury footwear from Charlotte Olympia. An exclusive range of fur pieces were presented by J Mendel and exotic skin handbags and leather goods were shown by Asprey and Nancy Gonzalez. There was also a preview of special collections and limited edition pieces from Boucheron,

Crystal Roc Piano

Pomellato&H. Stern – all presented exclusively by Harvey Nichols. Other luxury displays at the World Luxury Expo were from ART Marine, Luxury Seas Boats, Earth Platinum Atlas, Villari, Audissey Dubai, Desvall Shishas, Saxo Bank, Aston Pearl Real Estate, Kempinski Hotels, Interiors Furniture, Clio Pro, Cantonnet Jewellery, NasJet Private Aviation, refined shawls from Toshkana, Swiss Tourism and The London Robe Company.

Following the Dubai edition, World Luxury Expo will continue to the palatial Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh and then to Doha and Abu Dhabi, creating an annual signature series of events in all four cities as Dubai spurs expansion plans for an even bigger and better edition in 2014 proudly supported by Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Calendar.

Ultimate Centennial Dragon fountain pen by Montegrappa

70

Celebrating the Best in Culinary World The Third BBC Good Food Middle East Awards 2012

Ultimate Centennial Dragon fountain pen by Montegrappa

The votes are in and the panel has spoken.

Having scoured the country for the last 6 months and after a lengthy voting process and a mystery box cooking challenge, the winners of the BBC Good Food Middle East Awards have now been announced.

Passionate, dedicated and outstanding artisan producers & chefs were recognized in this yearly celebration of the culinary finest in a prestigious gala award night brought to all foodies and fans across the Emirates by CPI, Publisher of Good Food Middle East Magazine and organizer of the event.

From home cooking brands that we love and use daily to favorite eating-out options, a distilled selection by vote has been made by good food fans in the UAE. The winners were announced at a shimmering 50’s & 60’s jazz-themed award ceremony that took place at the vibrant Ritz Carlton, DIFC, with contestants and brands competing for the people’s

71

Other winners for their cuisine in the Fine Dining Category were: Traiteur (Park Hyatt Dubai) for Best European, Rivington Grill (Souk Al Bahr) for Best Modern British, Zuma (DIFC) for Best Asian, Asado (The Palace The Old Town) for Best Latin American, Options By Sanjeev Kapoor (Convention Tower, DIFC) for Best Indian, Al Hadheera (Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa) for Best Middle Eastern, JW’s Steakhouse (JW Marriott) for Best Steakhouse, Bice (Hilton Dubai Jumeirah) for Best Italian and Al Qasr Friday Brunch (Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah) for Best Brunch.

Out of eight nominees from the capital Abu Dhabi, ‘Restaurant of the Year in Abu Dhabi’ went to Bord Eau (Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri), while 55th & 5th (The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort) was named ‘Best New Restaurant in Abu Dhabi’.

In the casual Dining category, winners were: Jamies Italian, Zafran, Paul Café, PF Chang’s and Zaatar W Zeit. Awards went to best kitchen brands and cooking ingredients as well to recognize their excellence and dependability.

choice and stamp of approval under four main categories: Fine Dining, Casual Dining, Ingredients, and Accessories.

As guests arrived at the venue, welcome bubbly drinks and canapés were served followed by world-class jazz entertainment and a threecourse gourmet dinner, all accompanied by the excitement of finding out who the winners were and hearing the rounds of applause as the winners took to the stage.

The ‘Chef of the Year’ & ‘Restaurant of the Year in Dubai’ awards both went to Table 9 and its innovative Chef, Nick Alvis. It’s been a great year for Table 9 which is now expected to have an even better year after becoming an award winning restaurant just a year after it has opened, serving the finest eats and drinks.

72

Haute Events When & Where

Taste of Dubai 2013

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2013

The Amphitheatre in Dubai Media City will host this remarkable al fresco festival for three days of eating, drinking and entertainment. Taste of Dubai will bring together 30 of the city’s best restaurants, prestigious celebrity chefs, premium beverage brands, gastronomic exhibitors and an incredible entertainment stage playing host to region’s favorite bands and also, exciting new bands.

When: 14th-16th March Where: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre Ticketing & Admission: AED 60 - AED 240 For more info visit: www.tasteofdubaifestival.com

In the stunning surroundings of the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, this event will present the world’s best polo teams and players who will battle it out for the final. The final event will be held on March 15 at noon. Dine in the VIP stands, bring your friends for a picnic on the lush lawns, or party to the beats in the tent.

When: 25th February-15th March Venue: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches Ticketing & Admission: AED 150 at timeouttickets.com For more info visit: www.dubaipologoldcup.com

Dubai International Boat Show 2013 Dubai International Boat Show is the largest, most important and most established event of its kind in the region and as one of the fastest growing leisure marine industry exhibitions in the world, the 21st edition of the event will be a classic showcase of yachts, supercars, equipment and supplies from both local and international builders together with the latest innovations in marine industry.

When: 5th-9th March 2013 Where: Dubai International Marine Club (Mina Seyahi) Ticketing & Admission: AED 60 available at the entrance For more info visit: www.boatshowdubai.com

Julio Iglesias Live in Dubai

The Oil Barons Charity Ball Join the cream of Dubai Society in this prestigious charity event to raise funds and hope for the Friends of Cancer Patients Society (FOCP) and pay tribute to the lifetime achievements of a leading figure in the oil and gas industry. Titled ‘The Glitter Ball’, this year’s gala will celebrate the 10th anniversary and make a beeline for the disco era of the 70’s, with Abba tribute band ‘Take A Chance’ performing a slew of the Swedish pop stars’ most famous hits. Fundraising is supported by part proceeds from event ticket sales, dedicated sponsorship packages and donations.

When: 8th-9th March 2013 Where: Meydan Racecourse Ticketing & Admission: US$ 350 - US$550 for individual seats, US$ 3,000 - US$ 5,000 for corporate table.

For more info visit: www.theoilbaronscharityball.com

73

M4 Events & Sony Music Middle East are proud to present Julio Iglesias live in Dubai as part of the “World Legends” Dubai Concert Series. The romantic Spanish singer and songwriter will take you back through the years with a repertoire of some of his most famous hits. Iglesias is one of the best-selling artists of all time, having sold over 300 million records worldwide with 80 albums released in 14 languages.

When: 21st March 2013 Where: Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre Ticketing & Admission: AED 320 - silver, AED 495 - gold, AED 695 - VIP, AED 1,300 – VVIP available online and from the following outlets: Virgin Megastore, TimeOut Dubai, Platinum List, Box Office ME. For more info visit: www.M4events.com

Art Dubai 2013 Art Dubai is the leading international art fair in the MENASA (Middle East/ North Africa/South Asia), it has become a cornerstone of the region’s booming contemporary art community. Art Dubai is part of Art Week, the umbrella initiative that includes Sikka Art Fair (in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, formerly known as Bastakiya), Design Days Dubai, and a range of contemporary art and design events, major museum shows, and new gallery exhibitions and artists’ projects, taking place each March.

When: 20th-23rd March Where: Madinat Arena, Madinat Jumeirah Ticketing & Admission: AED 50 at the entrance For more info visit: www.artdubai.ae

Dubai World Cup 2013 Witness the 18th edition of the world’s richest race day, the Dubai World Cup from the stunning hospitality facilities offering you and your guests the opportunity to experience the electrifying atmosphere in style and comfort all with stunning views of the racetrack, or join the heart of the social action at Apron Views home to the famous Bubble Lounge, Irish Village and Jaguar Style Stakes competition.

When: 30th March Where: Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse, Nad Al Sheba Ticketing & Admission: AED 25 for general admission and packages start from AED 350 per person For more info visit: www.dubairacingclub.com

The Score – Catrin Finch Enjoy an amazing performance by Welsh harpist Catrin Finch, who has delighted audiences with her performances in the UK and worldwide. Inspired to learn the harp at the age of five, Finch was the official harpist to the Prince of Wales from 2000 to 2004 and has appeared with many of the world’s top orchestras. She is a visiting professor at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and the Royal Academy of Music.

When: 25th March Where: Madinat Theatre, Souk Madinat Jumeirah Ticketing & Admission: AED 185, AED 250 available at Madinat Theatre Box Office and online at timeouttickets.com For more info visit: www.thescore.ae

The Score – Katya Apekisheva Katya Apekisheva is one of Europe’s foremost pianists, in demand internationally as a soloist and chamber musician. The London-based musician is well-known for her fantastic interpretations of Schubert’s and Tchaikovsky’s works.

When: 29th April 2013 Where: Madinat Theatre, Souk Madinat Jumeirah Ticketing & Admission: AED 185, AED 250 available at Madinat Theatre Box Office and online at timeouttickets.com For more info visit: www.thescore.ae

Where will you be?

74