Atlantis, The Magazine Issue 04

c o M p l i M e n ta r y c o p y

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | issue 04

instant andy

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

Discovering Andy Warhol’s Polaroid art

rebels with a cause

The horology brands breaking the rules

MonkeyinG around

Feast on festive cuisine this Chinese New Year

Go the distance

Making memories with Globe-Trotter

the sport of sheikhs An ancient sport in modern times

TAKE OFF FROM ATLANTIS THE PALM HELIPAD ON PALM JUMEIRAH

P.O. Box: 25718, Dubai, UAE , Tel: +971 4 701 9111, Fax: +971 4 701 9100 Email: info@alphatoursdubai.com , Web: www.alphatoursdubai.com

5 WELCOME

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Instagram has quickly become the new photo album for travelers and with its 400 million monthly active accounts it is one of the most popular social networks worldwide.

Looking at these figures we are extremely proud that Atlantis has received the title as the third most snapped hotel on Instagram in the world, after Universal Studios Florida and the legendary Fontainebleau in Miami. Decided through Instagram’s annual ‘Year in Review 2015’, the series of awards takes note of the most popular locations that capture the hearts and imagination of millions users and create memories.

The holiday season is a time to build lifelong memories with your friends and family. At this special time of the year, we celebrate together and value our traditions. With guests from around the world, we want to ensure that you enjoy your holidays during this important time of the year and make it special for all festivities.

Being such an international resort gives us the opportunity to show how different cultures celebrate be it Eid, Christmas, Chinese New Year, Diwali and beyond.

Wishing you all a wonderful festive season and a successful 2016!

Serge Zaalof President and Managing Director, Atlantis, The Palm

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

From Serge Zaalof, President and Managing Director, Atlantis, The Palm

6

CONTENTS LUXURIES Page 10 - 43

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Andrea Krenn VP PR Atlantis, The Palm MAnAgIng DIRECTOR ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

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David Wade EDITOR

Hayley Skirka SEnIOR DESIgnER

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Emi Dixon ILLUSTRATIOnS

Andrew Thorpe PRODUCTIOn MAnAgER

Muthu Kumar To contact any of the above people, email firstname@ hotmediapublishing.com

10

Check In A mix of news, trends and reviews to see you through your holiday

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The Romance of Travel Globe-Trotter luggage laments a time when travel was all about romance

20

Instant Andy Discovering the celebrity-led photographs snapped by Andy Warhol

26

Rebels of Horology The independent rebel watchmakers who are changing the face of time

30

Under the Hammer From priceless art to stand-alone jewels, business is booming at auction houses

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited.

All prices mentioned are correct at time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Atlantis Magazine.

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The Good Life The ease of luxury awaits with the Imperial Club at Atlantis, The Palm

8 In & AROUnD Page 45 - 67

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Page 69 - 80

69

What the Butler Saw

A Vintage Vantage

An exclusive look inside The Presidential Suite

Uncovering city secrets in a vintage Bentley

48

On the Terrace Dine in style on any of our stunning terraces

49

Discovering Sea Lion Point ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

73

A Day at the Races Find out more about the sport of sheikhs

75

A meet and greet with a difference

First-Timer’s Itinerary

50

Unearth the best of the city during a whistle-stop stay

Secrets of The Lost Chambers An exclusive look at what goes on in the shadows of The Lost Chambers Aquarium

52

A Day in the Life Meet the world’s first female Pakistani diving instructor, Rosheen Khan

77

Delving into Dubai’s Souqs Discover the city’s traditional Arabian markets

80

Check Out Swedish personality Gry Forssell talks fireworks, fun and finding time for naps

53

Society Spotting All the action from the launch of Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar

54

Wellness Why beauty is more than skin deep

56

Epicurious A culinary update on all things gourmet at Atlantis, The Palm

This issue’s cover, shot on location at Atlantis, The Palm. Photography by Juliet Dunne

LUXURIES CHECK IN

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

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CHECK IN

A round-up of the things we will be talking about this season

Performers at the Rio De Janeiro Carnival

LUXURIES CHECK IN

11 It’s carnival time around the world with some of the biggest, brightest and most colourful celebrations set to enthral. We round-up our pick of the best on show...

CarNEvalE dI vENEzIa Running from the 23rd of January until the 9th February, this festival is the high point in Venice’s social calendar. The masked extravaganza (and the world’s best known baroque fancy dress party) has its traditions in the 15th century. Expect processions through the city, mock military tournaments and a grand masked ball, as well as a plethora of musical and theatrical performance in the north of Italy. carnevale.venezia.it

The Quebec City winter festival takes place from January 24th to February 14th and is the largest winter festival in the world. First created as a way to beat the cold winter chills, visitors can expect 17 days of night parades, ice slides, dog-sled races, snow rafting and outdoor dance parties in the snow. Be sure to wrap up warm as temperatures hover around minus 10 degrees. www.carnaval.qc.ca

rIo dE JaNEIro CarNIval Quite possibly the best-known party in the world, carnival in Brazil is a party like no other. Expect Indian costumes, African beats, Brazilian bandas and Samba parades with festivities going on all through the night and into the next morning. People from all walks of life come together from February 5th to partake in the fun loving spirit of carnival. rio-carnival.net

NEw orlEaNs MardI Gras Taking place on February 9th, the city of New Orleans comes alive in a spirit of festivity as the streets fill with a throng of happy people wearing masks, costumes and colorful beads.

Having been a tradition since 1837, it’s a time to celebrate the end of winter and the coming days of spring with lavish parades abundant with flamboyantly coloured floats. mardigrasneworleans.com

russIaN MaslENItsa Also known as the Russian pancake festival, this celebration honours the end of winter and the coming of spring. Taking place in Maslenitsa Town, which is created near Red Square in St. Petersburg specifically for the festival, the word Maslenitsa comes from the Russian for butter, which is a key ingredient in the festive treat of the week – pancakes. Taking place from March 7th-19th, expect horse-drawn sledges, storytelling clowns and snowball fights aplenty. event-carnival.com/russia/maslenitsa

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | IssuE 04

CarNaval dE QuEbEC

LUXURIES CHECK IN

12

John Arnold Pocket Watch

a vEry brItIsH affaIr

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

There is huge anticipation ahead of what could be the most important English horology auction in history The Celebration of the English Watch is a landmark collection of timepieces that has been entrusted to Sotheby’s auction house.

One of the most important private collections of English watches to ever come to the market, the collection will be sold across four London auctions. Brilliantly tracing the evolution of watch-making from the 17th century to modern day and the supremacy of England at pivotal moments, we’re expecting some record-breaking lots. sothebys.com

Black V

aN arabIaN sCENt

Hauben Frei Falcon Hood

A luxury fragrance steeped in Arabian traditions

NotHING but tHE bEst

A perfume can have the charm of adventure and the allure of the unknown, something that is true in the case of Black V by homegrown perfume house AJ Arabia.

Evoking oriental scents of Arabia mixed with flowery notes from around the globe, the architecture of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi was the inspiration behind the intricate design of the bottle.

Eschewing typical gender definitions in the fragrance world, this memorable unisex scent is anchored to Emirati roots and heritage.

Available at Harvey Nichols Dubai.

One of the most important accessories in falconry has to be the hood, the piece of apparatus used to ensure that the bird remains calm and undistracted. And now, for privileged raptors, the resplendent trappings of Italian jeweller Trioler Goldschmied await.

Over the past few years, bespoke-designed falcon hoods have grown in popularity in the Gulf, with prices ranging from upwards of Dhs23,000. The Italian jewellery company spent a year devising a technique that would

Diamonds are set to be a falcon’s best friend thanks to Trioler Goldschmied

allow them to secure diamonds firmly onto a falcon hood, while carefully ensuring that it was not heavy enough to disturb the bird.

Crafted with care, each hood takes up to three months to produce and lasts around five months, if cared for properly. The most popular models are fashioned out of black and white leather, but the company has also made hoods out of stingray, lizard and crocodile skin and can include a coat of arms in the design work. Even in these high fashion hood stakes, functionality far surpasses style with the design carefully constructed to ensure that the hood does what it is supposed to do and keeps the bird calm, albeit in a resplendent manner. For more information visit tirolergoldschmied.info

LUXURIES CHECK IN

13 Patchino Aqua Chocolates

The Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo

vIrtual rEalIty

Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo

a PrECIous MoMENt

French car giants Bugatti have evolved the virtual Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo – a model created exclusively for the PlayStation game – into a real-world concept car, shown in all its aesthetic glory at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Vision Gran Turismo project allows car designers and engineers to create models for the virtual world without the limitations created by regulations, budgets, and in some cases, reality.

The cars are then used in Gran Turismo 6. However, the Bugatti design team took this process one step further by transforming their design into a physical model, which its designers say pays homage to Bugatti’s great racing tradition of the 1920s and 1930s while offering a glimpse of what to expect from them in the future.

Patchino Aqua by Patchi

Mobile phones have been transformed from necessity to luxury with the Savelli Champagne Diamonds

Savelli Champagne Diamonds

For the woman who adores the finer things in life, Savelli’s stunning new handset will undoubtedly make her wish-list.

Crafted in 18-carat rose gold and set with 395 white and cognac brilliant-cut diamonds, this model combines technology and elegance beautifully. Designed by Alessandro Savelli, the gorgeous handset has been conceived as a piece of fine jewellery and was inspired by The Line of Grace, an aesthetic concept that encapsulates timeless beauty and true femininity.

CHoColatE dElIGHt

Made exclusively for Atlantis, The Palm, Patchino Aqua by Patchi is the perfect chocolate treat for little ones. Jump into a world of colour,

creativity, delicious chocolates and exclusive toys in this fun collection available at Patchi’s flagship store at The Dubai Mall, as well as its boutique within The Avenues or in The Lost Chambers store at Atlantis, The Palm. This is one mini holdall you definitely must find room for in your luggage.

Patchino Aqua by Patchi puts the fun into chocolate

dIGItal dIsPatCHEs Freebird

The Lost Chambers App

Last Message

Globarati.com

Perfect for travellers with timesensitive plans, this brand new service will automatically rebook your travel plans if you experience delays of four hours or more. getfreebird.com

Available on Apple or Android, this fantastic app is a fun way to find out more about the marine life in The Lost Chambers Aquarium before testing your skills in the Atlantis myths game.

Ideal for when you’re on the go and realise you’re running low on battery power. This app, available on Android, will contact your preselected numbers alerting them that your phone is about to turn off.

Thinking of where your next vacation should be? This site is perfect for travel inspiration, offering news, stories and needto-know scoops on luxury travel destinations across the globe.

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | IssuE 04

Bugatti turn the Vision Gran Turismo into a concept car

LUXURIES CHECK IN

14 The bespoke gingerbread house

a swEEt trEat

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

London-based Georgia’s Cakes have created the world’s most precious gingerbread house If you have a sweet tooth then you are sure to be interested in the news that the world’s most expensive gingerbread house is on the market.

Adorned with 150 AAA South Grade Sea pearls and fivecarat Mozambique rubies, the exceptional house can be custom made to replicate the buyer’s home. Using organic ginger, Duchy eggs and Ceylon cinnamon – which is famed for its healthboosting properties – the stunning centerpiece was created by Georgia Green, the Cordon Bleu-trained owner of Georgia’s Cakes and the woman behind Cara Delevingne’s DKNY launch party cake. A £1000 donation will be made to The Prince’s Trust charity when the cake is sold. veryfirstto.com

RJ Super Mario

suPEr MarIo tIME

Romain Jerome unveils a limited edition Super Mario Bros timepiece In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the iconic Nintendo Super Mario Bros game, luxury watchmaker Romain Jerome has created a limited-edition timepiece which has been unveiled after a year in development.

With a 46mm black titanium case, the timepiece contains colourful enamelcoated pixel art of Mario inlaid in a threelayer dial and coupled with a sleek black strap. Retailing for $18,950, buyers of this particular timepiece are bound to be dedicated gamers. romainjerome.ch

INtroduCING tHE GIPHosCoPE The Giphoscope is the world’s first analog GIF player, handcrafted

by Italian design duo Alessandro Scali and Marco Calabresese

This beautiful contraption turns video and GIFs, traditionally somewhat disposable media, into breathtaking works of art, a feat that seems to defy logic.

Inspired by Herman Casler’s 1890s mutoscope, the device works on the same principle as the early flipbook. Crafted from marble and fine Italian wood, titanium and gold are used for the metallic elements.

The fascinating Hadji Cheriff Giphoscope captures 1899 footage of the Arabian performer, one of the first ever Arabs recorded on motion picture, while the Edison Collection displays excerpts from historical videos dating from the end of the 19th to the start of the 20th century. The Muybridge Collection, meanwhile, displays images from motion photographer Eadweard Muybridge’s Animal Locomotion collection. Discover more at giphoscope.com

Hadji Cheriff Giphoscope

LUXURIES CHECK IN

15 THE MARK OF LUXURY

In 2006, Arif Ben Khadra, an experienced G.I.A-graduated gemologist and an entrepreneur with a passion for luxury, founded the first Levant jewellery store in Dubai.

Incorporating his experience in fine jewellery, Arif and his wife, Imane, collaborated to create what was to become a formidable business partnership upon which to build a luxury brand.

Despite the launch of Levant coinciding with the onset of the worldwide economic crisis, it would seem that the birth of the company was a prime example of getting the timing right as, explains Imane, Levant was not adversely affected: “It was the other way around for us. People were turning to commodities like jewellery; people were investing their money in buying gold and purchasing diamonds.”

Speaking to us at the company’s sleek new offices, all Levant branded and effortlessly portraying the brand’s signature attention to detail, Imane talked us through the development of Levant.

“Since opening the first Levant boutique we have gone on to open sixteen retail locations. In 2009, Levant opened at Atlantis, The Palm, a strategic decision which has proved successful, and our relationship with the resort has expanded to now include five Levant boutiques within the hotel development.”

Levant’s success has been built upon the company’s ability to provide the discerning clientele of Dubai with unique and exclusive products, a philosophy that is pioneered by Imane’s husband Arif.

“My husband has always had a clear vision for Levant, and that is evident in the coveted selection of exclusive brands which are available in our boutiques. Arif and I work with an internationally-sourced team of brand and retail professionals within our company to ensure the continued success of this philosophy. Our team scours the globe to discover bespoke brands to include in our ever-growing portfolio and, more often than not, we are now approached by brands to showcase their products within Dubai as a result of our success over the years.”

In addition to running a successful company, Imane is also the proud mother to three young children, ensuring that her schedule is nearly always hectic.

“My days are busy, to say the least. At times it feels like 24 hours are not quite enough. My day at the office starts at nine but I ensure that I am home in the afternoons to welcome our children back from school, help with homework and extra activities.”

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

Atlantis, The Magazine sat down with Imane El Khairi, Vice Chairman of the Levant group, to find out more about the brand’s unique take on luxury

Imane El Khairi

With such a hectic lifestyle, surely it is tempting to focus solely on motherhood? “I am sometimes tempted to be a stay-at-home mum,” affirms Imane, before adding: “I have always been career driven and a bit of workaholic so it would not be easy for me to give up work entirely. I started working at the age of 21, I even continued during maternity leave. I always started with the intention of taking six months off and I always ended up coming back to work in the second or third month.”

So, what is the secret to success according to this businesswoman? “I have a great passion for what I do, and I think that passion is very crucial in the success of any company.”

With some of the region’s most uniquely luxurious brands now under the Levant

umbrella, does the vice chair of Levant have a favourite brand?

“My personal aesthetic is simple, classic and minimalist. Levant caters to the taste of all discerning clients, from those looking for an everyday item to those looking for a bespoke item for a special event, or those who wish to purchase investment pieces. Our portfolio has it all, hence it is impossible for me to choose one.”

Looking to the future, Levant has numerous expansion plans, not least a presence in The Royal Atlantis when it opens adjacent to Atlantis, The Palm in 2018.

Imane concludes our chat by defining luxury: “Luxury, to me, is a way of life where one experiences refinement, exquisite craftsmanship and unrivalled service.”

LUXURIES GLOBE-TROTTER

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the

RoMANcE

travel

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

of

Harking back to the days when travel was an elegant affair, Globe-Trotter luggage fuses a touch of old-world charm with sophisticated new world style

W

hatever happened to the romance of travel?

Three hundred years ago, some of the earliest forms of tourism saw wealthy gentlemen traverse from Britain to France, Germany and Italy in a bid to discover the cultural legacy of the Continent and all its Renaissance magic. Journeys lasted anything from a few months to a few years and the men spent their time commissioning paintings, learning languages, purchasing exotic items and acquainting themselves with the aristocratic world of Europe. Travel by its very nature was exciting, elegant and undoubtedly romantic.

Fast-forward to today and any sense of romance has vanished. Airlines impose penalties for bags bigger than their tiny shoebox-size regulations, a myriad of departure gates, immigration forms and hastily loaded luggage

carousels await and it’s no wonder that people simply want to get from A to B as quickly as possible. Understandably, the bygone era of romantic travel is dead in the water.

One company lamenting that bygone era is Globe-Trotter, a brand with a rich heritage that, according to chairman Jeff Vaughn, was born during a time, “when travel was very much a grand adventure.”

That era was around 120 years ago when the company was founded by a British man called David Nelken in Saxony, Germany. Moving to Hertfordshire in England in 1932, Globe-Trotter rapidly found itself a footing in the glamorous world of travel. Winston Churchill favoured the company’s Attaché case and HM Queen Elizabeth II opted to take a navy blue set on her honeymoon in Broadlands.

Unfortunately, not long after the end of

WWII, things began to take a slide. Poor management, sloppy quality control and a declining faith in British manufacturers as a whole brought Globe-Trotter towards the brink of disaster. Thankfully, Vaughn – who was former chairman of the British Luggage Association – had been involved in selling Globe-Trotter across the world and was determined not to let his biggest supplier come to a sticky end. In 1998, he made moves towards acquiring the brand and formally took over proceedings in 2001.

Once at the helm, he upgraded and enlarged the company’s Victorian factory and implemented a return to the impeccable quality of Globe-Trotter’s heyday. Vaughn vowed to respect the company roots, commenting: “The philosophy has always been a simple one; never to compromise the integrity of craftsmanship.”

JAN - APRIL 2016 | ISSUE 04

LUXURIES GLOBE-TROTTER

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LUXURIES GLOBE-TROTTER

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Opening page: Globe-Trotter’s Safari Ivory collection. This page (clockwise from far right): The Spectre 007 collection celebrates the James Bond movie; Sir Winston Churchill favoured the Attache case; Sir Edmund Hillary ascended to first base camp with the luggage; Explorer Robert Falcon Scott with Globe-Trotter luggage visible under shelf; An early Victorian advertisement depicts the strength of the case.

LUXURIES GLOBE-TROTTER

Harking back to a time when travel was glamorous, the brand began injecting innovation back into its products.

Remembering an era when flying was expensive, stewardesses were glamorous and people got dressed up to board a plane, GlobeTrotter stuck firmly to its traditional artisanship while establishing itself as a tasteful fit for the modern age. “Now, in 2015, the factory has almost 100 craftsman. Daily it buzzes with new products, new ideas, new orders and is selling all over the world.” Vaughn says proudly.

The iconic suitcases are the very definition

tRavEL by ItS vERy natURE waS EXcItIng, ELEgant and UndoUbtEdLy RomantIc of handcrafted luxury luggage. Still expertly fashioned by three generations of skilled artisans, Globe-Trotter pieces are made on Victorian machinery and crafted from Vulcan Fibreboard (a material invented in Britain back in the 1850s). The process is a lengthy one.

Leather straps are cut and sewn on industrial harness machines that date back to 1928, while fibreboard is sliced with the blunt edge of a Victorian guillotine. Paper-backed cloth linings – inspired by fashion, art and trends of the moment – are hand-inserted before iconic steel lipping is cut, formed and attached, also by hand. Each faithful travel companion is the careful result of 98 processes and takes an impressive 10 days, nine hours and 35 minutes to complete.

The finished result is minimal and elegant, like a cross between the glamorous style of Mad Men and the adventurous spirit of Catch Me If You Can. With a Globe-Trotter case, there’s a sense that you could waltz onto an airplane, sink back into a plush leather seat and light up a Havana.

A globetrotter is defined as ‘Someone who often travels to a lot of different countries’ and Globe-Trotter pieces are indeed the perfect travel companion for such a frequent adventurer, thanks in part to their reliable durability. Back in 1912, the company undertook a strength test on one of their trunks at the Zoological Gardens in Hamburg which saw a 1-ton elephant climbing atop the luggage. As well as convincing the public of its durability, the stunt was an also an indication of the fun that can be had when globetrotting across the world. Remembering this event, the company recently launched a limited edition of its Candy collection that features a fun ‘Queue for the Zoo’ pink and purple lining, peppered with images of many of the animals from that very same visit to Hamburg Zoo. Built to last, there’s no need to worry about scuffs gained from hoisting a Globe-Trotter case atop an open-top truck on Sri Lanka’s bumpy roads or dents derived from throwing it into the back of a jeep and hurtling across African plains. The vintage design befits such instances and the marks simply become part of the nostalgia. To some extent, it’s as if the cases begin to tell a story, signifying the magic of travel, reminding us of its romantic allure and depicting the excitement and adventure that it can bring to us all. Shop for Globe-Trotter at Harvey Nichols - Dubai, Mall of the Emirates.

dEc 2015 - FEb 2016 | ISSUE 04

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LUXURIES ANDY WARHOL

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Instant

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

ANDY Before there were selfies, Instagram and iPhones, one of America’s most iconic artists was already detailing his life on camera. Hayley Skirka speaks to Richard B. Woodward, art critic and author, about Andy Warhol’s affinity with instant Polaroid photography

A

ndy Warhol; the mere mention of his name conjures up images of pop art prints depicting colourful Marilyn Monroes or cans of Campbell’s soup in even the most unpretentious mind. And yet, while the American artist may be best known for his silkscreen paintings, he was also a prolific photographer who produced tens of thousands of Polaroid photographs throughout his life.

In ‘Andy Warhol. Polaroids’ a book by Taschen, hundreds of these captivating images are presented, some for the first time, in what is a fascinating collaboration between The Andy Warhol Foundation, Ruel Golden and Richard B. Woodward.

Long-famed for his obsession with celebrity, Warhol’s photographs read something like a Who’s Who of the 60s, 70s and 80s. Sylvester Stallone, Debbie Harry, Jerry Hall and Muhammad Ali all make an appearance while the cover depicts a stunning print of a cheekboned Grace Jones, derived directly from one of Warhol’s Polaroids. Some celebrities appear only once – like Truman Capote in his tipped fedora – while others manifest time and again.

This, says Woodward, is reflective of Warhol’s obsessive tendencies: “It’s obvious that he loved certain faces. Especially very famous faces and, of course, certain young men. And, for that matter, women too.”

Nowadays, snapping a picture with a smartphone has become somewhat the norm, indeed Instagram is one of the fastest growing social media networks in the world, attracting over 400 million users. Woodward draws comparisons between Warhol’s early photographs and this social media phenomena: “He used the camera the way people use their cell phone cameras today – for instant gratification. But he was way ahead of the pack.”

And indeed he was, so much so that it wouldn’t be a stretch of the imagination to say that perhaps Andy Warhol was one of the first ever Instagrammers. And while Kim Kardashian may be the name synonymous with selfies, it

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE LUXURIES ANDY WARHOL

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LUXURIES ANDY WARHOL

would seem that Warhol had her trounced by a good fifty years - the book depicts countless self-portraits of Warhol taken with his precious Polaroid camera. Dressed or bare-faced, wearing make-up, donning a hat or with hair tortuously spiked, his range of selfies are so intriguing that he would no doubt have been one to follow on social media, had he been around for it. That said, Woodward notes that Warhol would have evolved the spectrum to another level.

“He would have added his own twist to it. In Andy’s day, people were also using the Polaroid - taking pictures of their families and friends but the way he went about it [his photography], so systematically and with such zeal, he just dwarfed anyone else.”

For the New York-based art critic, Warhol’s self-portraits are the most fascinating. Whilst many of the other photographs acted as starting points for other projects, his selfies were much more than that. “His self portraits were different, they were self-probing despite him having never been known as a psychological artist – he spurned all that. He never liked his own looks, he thought he was unattractive and in these photographs you can see he is using the camera to examine himself.”

Although not strictly art, Warhol’s celebrity Polaroids do take on a meaning independent of his other projects. Given the hordes of famous faces depicted, you could easily be forgiven for thinking that he was trying to create a sense of what we now call FOMO [fear of missing

HE USED THE pHoToGRApHS To REMEMbER wHERE HE wAS EAcH DAY

OpeNiNg pAge: Andy Warhol silkscreen selfportrait.

CLOCkWise fROm tOp Left: Warhol with his Polaroid camera @ Taschen; Grace Jones on the cover of ‘Andy Warhol. Polaroids’ @ Taschen; Product shot from ‘Andy Warhol.

Polaroids’ by Ruel Golden @Taschen shows the artist’s fascination with extremes.

NeXt pAge (left to right): A shot from the Dennis Hopper series taken in 1970, shortly after the actor garnered his EasyRider fame; Yves Saint-Laurent, the influential European fashion designer in 1972; American singersongwriter, actress, author, businesswoman, and humanitarian Dolly Parton pictured in 1985 all ©The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

out]. Yet Woodward disagrees: “He never really intended for most of his Polaroids to go out into the public realm, they were just notes really.”

The critic adds: “It was a diary. He used the photographs to remember where he was each day, that sounds like a joke, but I think it’s true.”

While the images are undoubtedly fascinating, the author warns us against getting too involved: “For the most part, they are sketches.

They’re not finished works themselves but more of a means to an end. That doesn’t mean they aren’t quite fascinating in their own right but it also doesn’t mean they are finished works.”

This is a theory that was echoed by Warhol himself when asked about his art in a 1981 interview for BBC Radio 4. Explaining how his art evolved from photography, the artist said: “Mr. Land invented this great camera… it was called the Polaroid Big Shot,” he told the radio show’s presenter. “And it just takes the face of the person. There’s something about the camera that makes the person look just right.”

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LUXURIES ANDY WARHOL

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In addition to capturing famous faces, it’s hard not to notice the contrast in subject matter from future presidents to random Brillo pad boxes, or a Hollywood actress next to a Cabbage Patch doll. Woodward believes that this eclectic subject matter was a result of Warhol’s experimentation tendencies.

“There’s a quotation from a photographer called Garry Winogrand – whom you would never normally associate with Warhol – who said ‘I photograph to see what something will look like photographed’. And I think, in a way, that’s what Warhol was doing. Experimenting with how, when you take a photograph, the photograph changes things. He was curious to see how things would look when they were photographed and how a camera can record almost anything in your life.”

Having spent months upon months sifting through Warhol’s photographs in preparation for the publication of ‘Andy Warhol. Polaroids’, Woodward became very familiar with the subject matter. What photographs stick in his mind as the most memorable? “I like the sequence on Dennis Hopper, I love the way he changes and the way Warhol’s perception of him changes.”

When it comes to a single shot, Woodward says: “Jimmy Carter is possibly my favourite.

He was about the un-hippest guy you could

imagine and then Warhol decided to help him, to increase his presidential chances by taking his photograph. And he had really never looked so good.”

Despite Warhol’s death in 1987 (aged 58), his work retains a universal and seemingly timeless appeal. This stems from his influential presence in the art world. He, before almost anyone else, recognized how so much of the world can be interpreted through a camera lens and how interesting that is. Woodward comments: “So many people have learned from him. You can’t go anywhere in the world of photography without his influence. He wasn’t the first or the only person to do it, but he has been so influential to so many people.”

It would appear that Warhol’s obsessive nature transcends boundaries. At a very recent Christie’s auction, one of his selfies sold for an impressive $37,000, a reflection of the importance today’s generation – with their love of YouTube hits and Insta-likes – places on pictures depicting self-gratification. And while it’s not hard to imagine that Warhol would have embraced such a society and ran with it, Woodward concludes with a thought-provoking point: “Warhol was never one to run with a crowd, even when pretending to be another face in it.”

For more information see www.taschen.com

HE wAS cURIOUS TO SEE HOw THINGS wOULD LOOk wHEN THEY wERE pHOTOGRApHED

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LUXURIES HOROLOGY

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REbELS of

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HOROLOGY The time-honoured tradition of watchmaking is undergoing something of a revolution as innovative independent horology brands dare to break the mould. Atlantis, The Magazine takes a closer look at some of these rebels with a cause

T

he most important rule in business is to break all the rules.” So said Sam Walton, late founder of Walmart and a renowned bender of rules. Success rarely comes from playing it safe, on the contrary, some of the biggest triumphs have come from those willing to step outside the box and change the way the game is played. Take Henry Ford, who purposefully paid employees much more than what was common, or Jim Buckmaster, whose anti-commercial stance surrounding his Craigslist website made it one of the most popular in the world.

Even in the prestigious world of watchmaking, there are rule breakers – horology aficionados demonstrating that a mix of ingenuity, improvisation and courage is often more important than following time-honoured rules.

One such company is Cabestan. Headed up by entrepreneurial genius Lionel Betoux and master watchmaker Eric Coudre, the pair have developed some of the most incredible timepieces in existence. With the invention of the brand’s now famous vertical orientated movement, Cabestan boldly stamped its mark on the universal history of watchmaking.

With a company tagline that reads ‘The future of tradition’, this is a brand that clearly understands the need to first know what the rules are, before going ahead and breaking them. In English, Cabestan means capstan – a mechanical device found on sailing boats that is used for winding rope – and this concept is obvious in the watchmaker’s bold designs. Take the Luna Nera timepiece for example, Betoux’s personal favourite, which uses a vertical

movement coupled with the brand’s ingenious fuse and chain movement to provide a constant force for the duration of the impressive 72-hour power reserve. The curved case is reminiscent of rolling waves and the entire timepiece is a true work of art. Hailing from a mechanical industry, CEO Betoux gives credit to the creative intellect of Coudre, the man behind the designs whom he deems to be “one of the top five geniuses in the watch-making industry.” Coudre’s creativity coupled with Betoux’s entrepreneurial spirit has evolved a watchmaking dream team, but how do they ensure this success continues?

“Feelings,” enlightens Betoux. “If we have a bad feeling and go for it, we know it’s not going to work. That’s not to say that a good feeling guarantees success – unfortunately it’s not that simple – but feelings never cheat on you. For the

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OpeninG paGe: The De Bethune DB27 Polo Edition. THiS paGe (cLOckwiSe fROm LefT): HYT Skull RedEye; The Cabestan Luna Neru; Jaermann & Stübi’s Order of Merit OD1.

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energy and motivation it takes to break the rules you have to be passionate. And in order to be passionate, you have to love it, and in order to love it, well, you have to have those feelings.”

Another daring watchmaker running on superb instinct is De Bethune, a trailblazing brand that has come into its own with fine craftsmanship pushed to the limit. It’s an approach that clearly pays off as De Bethune has amassed a plethora of watchmaking accolades both from collectors and the professional industry. De Bethune offers the perfect balance between tradition and modern design by pioneering innovative movements such as the replacing of hairsprings with magnets.

Pierre Jacques, CEO of the brand, explains the fundamentals behind the success: “It’s better to focus on making things better, rather than trying to do more. Less is more.”

It’s a bold statement but one that rings true for many other watchmakers. Look to HYT, a brand that have evolved horological values through their mastery of fluid and the introduction of the first hybrid mechanical-fluid watch.

Whilst water has long been a known nemesis to traditional watchmaking, the first-ever clock

was actually powered by the substance so, in effect, HYT has gone spectacularly back to timekeeping roots. The brand’s masterpieces are highly complex works of architecture incorporating skeletonisation coupled with a fluid-filled tube and bellows system to denote time and the timepieces are akin to miniature

IT’S bETTER TO FOcUS ON MAkING THINGS bETTER, RATHER THAN TRYING TO dO MORE living sculptures, an achievement that shows the brand’s ability to deconstruct then reconstruct horology rules.

As technology continues to advance so do timepieces, and watchmakers are keen to expand into different lifestyle categories.

One brand doing exactly this is Swiss watch manufacturer Jaermann & Stübi who have made an impact in the world of golf. As the first company to produce a mechanical watch with a complication that counts a player’s

strokes during a round of golf before comparing the total with his or her game handicap the timepieces also boast a patented shock absorber, protecting the movement against gravity and the impact of a golf swing. Receiving a true seal of approval when it became the official timepiece licensee of St Andrew’s Links in Scotland, the home of golf, the brand are constantly innovating and have also created one-of-a-kind timepieces crafted by melting down the clubs of legendary golfers, including Championship winners Nick Faldo and Seve Ballesteros, and moulding them into stunning timepieces.

At Dubai’s inaugural Watch Week – a collaboration under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Maximilian Büsser, Owner of MB&F – a showcase of the world’s best independent watchmakers presented futuristic designs for all to see and demonstrated that, in order to be able to create for the future, it really is critical to understand the past. And no matter how many rules they may break, this seems to be a sentiment shared by each horology rebel.

LUXURIES AUCTION TRENDS

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UNDER THE HAMMER With The Blue Moon diamond having smashed records when it sold for $48million at Sotheby’s auction house, we take a look at what’s trending at auctions around the world

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LUXURIES AUCTION TRENDS

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n auction is more than a simple sale; it’s an event that buzzes with adrenaline and excitement. Drawing in hundreds of people, it sees months of preparation culminate in a single event – sometimes just a few minutes of bidding – during which there are winners and losers, upsets and triumphs and the constant possibility that a sale at any given second could turn the auction world on its head.

In November 2015, the world’s most expensive coloured diamond sold at auction. The Blue Diamond – an internally flawless 12.03-carat diamond is the largest cushion-shaped vivid blue diamond to appear at auction and the piece set a new world record when it garnered almost $48.4million at Sotheby’s in Geneva. A telephone bidder purchased the diamond – a private collector from Hong Kong – who has since renamed the stone The Blue Moon of Josephine.

Meanwhile, at a recent contemporary art auction, Sotheby’s recorded more notable figures when an untitled blackboard work by artist Cy Twombly sold for a staggering $70.5 million. With all this record-breaking activity, it’s apparent that the world of auctions is particularly hot right now.

Dating back to Roman times, the word is derived from the Latin term ‘auctionem’ which means a sale by increase of bids. While the fundamentals of auctioning have remained fairly constant over the last 100 years, the pace at which auction trends change is hugely interesting.

Less than 40 years ago in the art world, the sale of an Old Masters would be the piece to break records, while modern art was predominantly traded in galleries. Fast forward to a decade ago and it was modernism and contemporary art accounting for the majority of growth at auction. Today, the trend appears to be simply that expensive objects – whether works of art, jewellery or important objects – are becoming more and more expensive. There’s often little difference in the price a 500-year-old painting can fetch and the asking fee for one that’s completely new, but painted by a wellknown artist. With an increase in demand from Asia, the Middle East and the US, auction prices are rocketing.

One noticeable trend is that customers now appear to rule the auction business. In earlier years, control lay with the auction houses, art and antique dealers. Today, new demographics are being created thanks largely to the Internet’s influence. According to Sotheby’s, one third of buyers last year were new, accounting for almost a fifth of their global sales. Pre-purchase behavior has moved 100 per cent online and new customers demand more advanced mobile solutions to be able to bid regardless of where they are in the world. In today’s auction world an online presence is a must.

With competition becoming fiercer as more online opportunities appear, the rules are

changing. Wholly online auction houses, such as The Auction Room, have forced traditional major auction houses to focus on diligent branding, offering specialist knowledge and having impeccable presentations in a way that’s never been more prominent. Indeed, Sotheby’s has seen a 47 per cent increase in lots sold online in the past year and amounts bid can be significant – for example, Marc Chagall’s “Vision Des Maries” which sold for $1.57 million at a Sotheby’s sale in New York last year.

A natural consequence of the financial crash was that art became very well established as an alternative asset. This is a trend that has since spread to jewellery sales and has been evident in sales hosted across the Middle East, for instance at Christie’s in Dubai’s DIFC or Sotheby’s location in Doha. According to Matthew Weigman, Sotheby’s Worldwide Director of Sales Communications and Senior Director, Communications, Europe and the Middle East, it’s also something that’s set to continue “History shows that financial market turmoil isn’t a predictor of art market decline. Volatility in certain markets may well result in more capital being diverted into tangible assets such as art. Indeed, in some sales this year, we have seen an increase in Russian buying [despite the Russian economic slowdown].”

With record-breaking prices, fluctuating markets and the impact of new technology, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what 2016 holds for auction trends. That said, the hunt for precious objects with a history will always be high, and the excitement that auctions afford buyers is second to none. According to Weigman: “Put simply, there is nothing quite like the atmosphere of the sale room during a high profile auction.”

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OpENINg pAgE: The Zoe Diamond sold by Sotheby’s.THIS pAgE: The Sunrise Ruby, The Blue Moon and The Pink Diamond all sold successfully at Sotheby’s in 2015.

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SHOP THIS LOOK: Fran wears: Shorts, Hugo Boss, Harvey Nichols Dubai; Shirt, Brunello Cucinelli, Harvey Nichols - Dubai; Shoes, JPTods.

Zaneta wears: Blouse, Iris & Ink; Trousers, Iris & Ink; Shoes, Christian Louboutin; Handbag, Christian Louboutin. Mark wears: Shirt, Armani Kids, Harvey Nichols - Dubai; Shorts, Paul Smith Kids, Harvey Nichols - Dubai.

Luggage: Rimowa, Jashanmal

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oN LoCATIoN

Good LIfE Everyday luxury is yours for the taking and special memories are there for the making with Imperial Club benefits for all the family PHOTOGRAPHY : JULIET DUNNE

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The

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SHOP THIS LOOK: (Opposite page)Zaneta wears: Dress,DVF, Harvey Nichols - Dubai. Mark wears: Polo shirt, Armani Kids, Harvey Nichols - Dubai; Shorts, Ralph Lauren Kids.

(This page) Handbag, Victoria Beckham; Lipsticks, Christian Louboutin.

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ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

SHOP THIS LOOK: Zaneta wears: Kaftan, Taj, Harvey Nichols Dubai; Bikini, Vilebrequin; Sunglasses, D&G. Fran wears: Shirt, Vilebrequin; Shorts, Vilebrequin; Sunglasses, D&G.

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s if a stay at Atlantis, The Palm wasn’t memorable enough, imagine upgrading your stay with the ultimate in everyday indulgence. That’s exactly what we experienced when we booked an Imperial Club room.

Arriving at Dubai airport, our trip began in style as we were collected in a sleek black Mercedes before being whisked through the city’s towering skyscrapers towards The Palm.

As Atlantis, The Palm’s instantly recognisable towers came into view, our five year-old shrieked in excitement, pressing his face up against the tinted windows for a closer view.

Service was impeccable from the outset, our luggage was effortlessly loaded onto a trolley before we were ushered into the stunning hotel lobby.

As my husband made his way to the Royal Majlis, an exclusive check-in location for Imperial Club guests, my son and I headed out to the private terrace of the Imperial Club Lounge for a delicious breakfast of pastries, juices and freshly brewed coffee. With complimentary daily breakfast and lavish afternoon teas, I knew we would be spending a lot of time here.

Even when we are on holiday, keeping in touch with those back home is something that’s important to us. That’s why we were delighted to receive complimentary Wifi with the use of an iPad to help us connect with family and friends during our stay – sharing a picture of our luxurious Imperial Club room made for a fantastic Instagram post!

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SHOP THIS LOOK: Zaneta wears: Dress, Elisabetta Franchi. Fran wears: Shirt, Brooks Brothers; Trousers, Hugo Boss, Harvey Nichols Dubai.

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With our bags unpacked, it was time to head outside and enjoy some of Dubai’s famous sunshine. What better place to do this than on our very own private beach with stunning views of the city skyline? Whilst my son frolicked on the sand, we began to relax in our cabana and really embrace the holiday spirit – living it up at Atlantis really does feel like what days were made for.

As there are so many children’s activities on offer, the hardest part of our day was deciding where to begin. With fast track entry at Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, plus preferential rates at Dolphin Bay and free access to the fantastic Kids’ Club, it was obvious from day one that no one would be bored on this holiday. Making our way to the Kids’ Club, our son dashed past us into this fully-supervised haven, super excited to try his hand at some rock climbing, whizz down slides at The Little Pirate’s playground, and wonder at amazing marine life in the Underwater Theatre.

Content that he was happy, my husband and I headed back to our suite to make the most of our alone time. With his and hers vanity units in the spacious bathroom, we enjoyed getting ready to go to dinner almost as much as we enjoyed the evening itself.

And as our first day at Atlantis, The Palm drew to an end, it was clear to see that every day would indeed be a luxury, thanks to the affordable indulgence of the Imperial Club.

To upgrade to Imperial Club or make a booking contact reservations@atlantisthepalm.com or call +971 4 426 1101

dEC 2015 - fEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

SHOP THIS LOOK: Mark wears: Shirt, Lacoste for kids; Shorts, Replay for kids.

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SECTION II

IN & AROUND Start your Atlantis, The Palm adventure here IN & AROUND PHOTOGRAPHY : SUKAINA RAJBAJAJ/ATLANTIS THE PALM

IN & AROUND WHAT THE BUTLER SAW

46 WHAT THE BUTLER SAW

THE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE The Butler: Dinesh Raj, head butler of VIP and protocol services at Atlantis, The Palm

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

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or a room fit for a president, there’s no better option than our Presidential Suite, located in the West Tower. With breathtaking Palm views, interconnecting rooms and elegant décor, this really is something special.

The grandeur and majesty of the Presidential Suite strikes an ideal balance between elegance, privacy and comfort. Sophisticated and luxurious, the sprawling lounge offers plenty of space in which to relax and socialise, adjacent to a fully-equipped office where you can undertake any business requirements.

Interestingly, the ceiling is bordered by colourful murals – just enough to add a spark of interest without proving a distraction. For those who like to entertain, the stunning dining area is a definite highlight. With an imposing golden-toned drop crystal chandelier directly above the dining table, which is surrounded by sumptuously upholstered dining chairs, it’s the perfect place to host a formal dinner. Retain a sense of privacy as you eat thanks to stylish folding screens that elegantly separate the dining space from the rest of the suite.

When it’s time to retire for the evening, the focus of the bedroom has to be the grand fourposter bed, elegantly framed by thick drapes.

Hints of red and gold flow from the living room to the master bedroom, adding a sense of royalty to the proceedings.

The bathroom is another highlight of the suite, the central focus being the oversized round Jacuzzi bathtub, ideal for relaxing in after a busy day of meetings. His and hers separate vanity stations and walk-in showers on either side of the bathtub add another edge of elegance, perfectly complemented by rich red mosaic tiles.

Standing on the sumptuous balcony allows guests to gaze at one of the world’s most unique sights from a truly striking vantage point. Drink in the views of the beautiful Atlantis, The Palm beachfront, the wider Palm Jumeirah, and the serene Arabian Sea – an unrivalled vista in a truly unrivalled suite.

Having hosted both current and former presidents, a stay at our Presidential Suite exudes sophistication.

BOOK THIS ROOM For more information about The Presidential Suite, visit the reception desk at Atlantis The Palm. Alternatively, visit atlantisthepalm.com or email reservations@atlantisthepalm.com

VIP ROOM ExTRAS INcLUDE… Complimentary private butler service 24/7 Complimentary return airport transfers Two complimentary dolphin encounters Complimentary private cabana at pool, beach and Aquaventure Two-for-one massage offers and a complimentary personal training session Access to The Imperial Club Lounge Free entry to N’Dulge Nightclub

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IN & AROUND TERRACES

Images courtesy of Atlantis, The Palm and coupletrips-theblog.me

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on ThE TERRACE From family friendly to a touch of romance,

To reserve a table on any of our terraces contact restaurantreservations@ atlantisthepalm.com

these terraces are just waiting to welcome you...

BREAkfAST DElighT

RomAnTiC ChARm

CASuAlly Cool

fAmily fun

The Imperial Club East Tower Lounge is one of the nicest spots in the entire resort to enjoy breakfast.

Ideal for families, enjoy a leisurely start to your day with delicious dishes surrounded by stunning views of the whole resort.

Soak in some zen in Nobu’s garden, designed to reflect the gardens of Japan and a truly magical spot to enjoy a romantic dinner for two.

Tuck into black cod and sample sumptuous rice-based beverages from the dedicated Sake bar.

Bread Street Kitchen & Bar’s terrace is all about the buzz, with a sprawling area complete with dedicated outdoor bars. A great spot to head for after work drinks with colleagues or delicious bar bites with friends.

Family-friendly Ronda Locatelli is the ideal place to enjoy a delicious feast of delectable seasonal Italian dishes with all the family. The huge outdoor terrace means there’s plenty of room for the little ones to move around.

IN & AROUND MARINE LIFE

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DISCOVERING SEA LION POINT

Get ready for an extra special meet and greet as you get up close and personal with one of the South African fur seals at Atlantis, The Palm

S

anga slides towards us, excitement obvious in her sparkling black eyes. Slipping one flipper behind our back and the other in front of our chest, she places a whiskery kiss on our cheek and squeezes us in a seal-hug. Of South African descent, Sanga was born in France but is now a proud resident of the UAE and, watching her splash, swim and dive around in her specially-designed lagoon, we can’t help but think that it’s a lifestyle that seems to suit her.

Offering a one-of-a-kind experience, Sea Lion Point boasts three lagoons with a specially chilled bathing pool, rocks for climbing on and spots where the seals can laze around in the sunshine, it’s the perfect place to find out a bit more about these fascinating creatures and our meeting with Sanga allowed us to do so.

After changing into a wetsuit, we begin the experience by attending a briefing session, hosted by a knowledgeable marine mammal specialist where we find out lots of interesting

facts about the sea mammals we’re about to meet. For instance, did you know that fur seals are more akin to sea lions because of their visible ears and rear flippers? Or that they can dive up to an impressive 1300 meters?

Briefing over, we head inside to meet our friend for the day. Remaining on dry land, we’re greeted by Sanga who waves her flippers excitedly at us. Next, she lies down on the ground allowing us to see her fur, which is double layered for insulation. Sliding over to the rocks, Sanga takes a seat and looks expectantly at us. She’s too cute to refuse so we sit down beside her where she gives us a fishy kiss. She’s ever so gentle and very well behaved.

Wading into the waist-deep waters, Sanga swims slowly past us, happy for us to gently stroke her and see how her under layer of fur remains completely dry even when fully submerged in the water. Kneeling down in the pool, we wait for Sanga to swim towards us and give her a hug. It’s only then that we realise the sheer size of her, she’s certainly no featherweight.

Next, Sanga teaches us a very important environmental lesson by diving into the pool and collecting a floating plastic bottle before dunking it directly into a nearby trash can.

As we applaud her efforts she treats us to some seal singing.

Extremely social by nature, all of the creatures at Sea Lion Point are expertly looked after with marine medical amenities that rival most human healthcare facilities. Their dedicated trainers spend every day with them and know them inside and out.

With three different programmes on offer, a visit to Sea Lion Point is ideal for kids and adults alike. Take a selfie with one of the creatures, or indulge in photo fun where you’ll also get a fishy kiss. The discovery session is the most comprehensive, allowing you to get up close and personal with these fascinating sea mammals.

For a truly magical experience, head to Sea Lion Point for an experience that will stay with you long after your session ends.

All bookings at Sea Lion Point include the additional bonus of all-day access to Aquaventure and reduced entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium. For Sea Lion Photo Fun and Sea Lion Discovery there’s a minimum age of six, while children aged between six and 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.

For bookings contact diveatlantis@ atlantisthepalm.com or call +971 4 426 3000.

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Discover the secrets of

THE LOST CHAMBERS For a truly fascinating experience, take part in the Behind-The-Scenes tour that will bring you closer then ever before to the 65,000 marine animals living in the resort’s lagoons, tunnels and chambers

IN & AROUND MARINE LIFE

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he water swirls around in gigantic modules above our heads and a maze of colourful pipes run the length of the massive mechanical room, each with a crucially important role to play in keeping the whopping 12 million litres of natural seawater in the Ambassador Lagoon in pristine condition. As the water is pumped through specially designed sand filters, Amanda, the assistant manager of The Lost Chambers Aquarium, tells us: “The water system here imitates what would happen in the natural world.”

It is a process that is truly fascinating to see and one that you can witness firsthand on the Behind The Scenes Tour, expertly guided by a friendly member of staff who will happily explain how everything works.

Starting off in the Ambassador Mechanical Room, Amanda explains that after the water comes through the sand filters, it passes through heat exchangers, protein fractionators and biotowers. Ozone is injected into the fractionators before the water makes its way back to the Ambassador Lagoon. There are 12 huge modules, and each has four sand filters.

With a single pump operating at 2000 gallons per minute – equivalent to six water jugs every second – it’s a true hive of activity. The protein fractionators remove organic matter from the water which prevents anomia, nitrates and nitrites from building up and in turn protects fish from parasites. With so much activity, it’s hard to take it all in but it certainly dawns on us just how much behind-the-scenes work actually goes into keeping the water at Atlantis, The Palm in such pristine condition.

Next stop is the fish hospital, a favourite with kids and the place where new arrivals, ailing fish and acclimatising marine life are looked after.

The nursery is where newborns are monitored, fed and given the chance to grow without predators before they are big enough to join their friends in the Ambassador Lagoon or, if native, be released into the wild.

Strolling across to the jellyfish culture, we see where the Atlantis, The Palm marine specialists are conducting a very special breeding programme. It’s fascinating to see the multiple stages of jellyfish development – starting off from a tiny pod and evolving into a fully formed glowing creature – right in front of your eyes.

Next up is one of the most exciting parts of the tour – the chance to stroke a shark! Velvety smooth and looking ever so serene in their pool, the experts will show you how to very carefully run your fingers down the sharks back, if you are brave enough.

On our tour, we were lucky enough to see baby clownfish and tiny seahorses that were only two days old. As well as housing newborns, the aquarium specialists also use the fish hospital as a place to provide animals with the very best care possible, nursing poorly fish back to full health before returning them to the Ambassador Lagoon.

Leaving the hospital, we head to the huge food preparation area – a kitchen that is dedicated to producing food of top restaurant quality for all of the marine life. Preparing crab, fresh tuna, squid, shrimp and even a variety of vegetables for the creatues in the lagoons is no easy task as the diets of each of the animals is carefully monitored to ensure that they get all of their essential nutrients and vitamins. Every single day, a whopping 400 kilos of food is prepared in this kitchen which even boasts its own walk-in freezer.

The finishing flourish is the chance to take some of the specially prepared food and feed it to the marine life. The daily tour timetable has scheduled sessions focusing on an array of sea life from moray eels to piranhas. Pick your favourite and watch as the animals dash and dive to munch on the food you throw to them.

To learn all about the underwater world at Atlantis, The Palm and beyond, this guided, behind-the-scenes tour is a definite must do.

Contact via +971 4 426 1040, or lostchambers@ atlantisthepalm.com.

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IN & AROUND A DAY IN THE LIFE

52 A DAY IN THE LIFE Rosheen Khan

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

Dive Instructor at Dive Atlantis

1:30pm We start the morning by going through the opening checklist, basically setting everything up for the day. We make sure the pool is clean, the computer is ready to go and that all the equipment is ready for all of the dives happening that day.

We work on a rotation system, so depending on what I’ve been doing in the morning I’ll do something different in the afternoon. If I’ve been teaching scuba diving in the pool then I might cover reception duties for a few hours in the afternoon, which I enjoy as I love meeting new people and seeing their reactions when they come back from diving.

8:30am

4pm

This is usually when our first guests of the day begin to arrive. We might have groups doing a scuba dive or kids doing a Bubblemaker course or Seal Team specialities, where they learn things like snapshot skills and creature identification under the water.

Afternoons change each day too, sometimes I might go on the Atlantis Discovery Dive, which is good fun. I took a couple once before and had an amazing experience; the woman was so scared before we started. I calmed her down and motivated her to do the dive. She had never been underwater before and was amazed.

Afterwards she hugged me and told me it had been one of the best experiences of her life - that felt fantastic.

8am

As the world’s first female Pakistani dive instructor, Rosheen Khan fell in love with the sport in her native Karachi. Travelling to Thailand, she earned her instructor certification, breaking down barriers for Pakistani women in the process. Having taught in Karachi and discovered underwater treasures in Qatar, she now spends her days helping guests get closer to the 65,000 marine animals at Atlantis, The Palm…

9am Today, I was teaching one of my younger students. Before I came to Dubai I had no experience teaching kids but I really love it.

It’s easy to teach them as they learn so fast and they’re not scared.

12:30 We don’t have a set time for lunch, it depends on who is coming into the Dive Centre and what programmes we have on each day, but I usually try to grab something to eat before 3pm.

6pm When the last guests of the day have left, the team and I will run through the closing checklist so that we are all set up for what’s going on. I just love being able to be so close to my passion everyday. To book a dive session with Rosheen contact diveatlantis@atlantisthepalm. com or call 04 426 3000.

IN & AROUND SOCIETY SPOTTING

53 SPOTTED AT: BREAD STREET KITCHEN & BAR

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

All the action from the launch of Gordon Ramsay’s fantastic new Bread Street Kitchen & Bar

CELEBRITY CHEF GORDON RAMSAY WAS IN TOWN TO WELCOME DUBAI’S SOCIALITES INTO HIS BRAND NEW RESTAURANT AT ATLANTIS, THE PALM AND OUR PHOTOGRAPHERS WERE ON HAND TO CAPTURE ALL THE ACTION (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): Martin Chambers and Mark Dinning from Time Out Dubai; Laura Coughlin from What’s On Dubai; Sarah Hymes from Ahlan!; Kevin Pieterson and Liberty X star Jessica Taylor; Rossy from Virgin Radio and Gordon Ramsay with his family.

IN & AROUND WellneSS

54 The Royal TReaTmenT

Time spent at Gentlemen’s Tonic left us feeling like a king

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

Stepping into the male salon that is Gentleman’s Tonic, we immediately dig the stylishly laidback ambiance that is perfected thanks to the traditional wooden fixtures and old-school barber chairs. Settling into one of the leather seats, our treatment starts by chatting to the friendly barber about what exactly we are looking for – do we want a clean shave, a new facial hair style or a simple beard trim?

Decision made, proceedings begin with a quick facial before a hot towel is applied in order to soften our facial hair. Next, exclusive Gentleman’s Tonic oil and cream is rubbed carefully into our skin before the shave itself begins. Our barber proceeds to perform an array of slick movements that leave our face fuzz free in less than five minutes. Impressive. Next, we’re treated to a luscious facemask before the grand finale of an indulgent head and hand massage leaves us feeling as fresh and energised as our soft skin now looks.

For more information and bookings contact ShuiQi Spa, +971 4 426 1020

IN & AROUND WellneSS

55 The eSPa Way

At 70 years-old, Sue Harmsworth is the inspirational woman behind the ESPA brand. We chat to her about her passion for wellness and zest for life

Your grandmother was a herbalist – did this influence your company?

I was born into an entrepreneurial family, guided by a trilogy of strong women and my granny, Nell, played a hugely influential role in my career. She was a herbalist and plant-lover – somewhat of a pioneer of her era. I suppose you could say she was responsible for initiating my interest in natural plant extracts and aromatherapy.

How did ESPA first distinguish itself from other spa brands?

In my first business we employed a lot of Eastern European aestheticians who had all been trained medically. Through them, treatments suddenly went from being purely relaxing and indulgent to making very real improvements to the health and wellbeing of guests, something that has helped define the brand to this day.

With a career spanning near fifty years, what has been your most memorable moment?

A very difficult question! In 2010, after devoting 40 years of my professional life to the spa and wellness industry, I was honoured to receive an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain.

You look fantastic. What are your wellbeing must-do’s so that we can try to copy them?

I truly understand the importance of looking after your skin. I have a very thorough morning and evening routine and simply wouldn’t be without the ESPA Lifestage range. Eating well and keeping physically fit are also a way of life for me. I try to follow a healthy diet and at least once a year will also attend a Wellness Retreat.

I’m not always this strict though – I love good food and drinks and definitely have the occasional indulgence!

To garner the benefits of Sue’s ESPA treatments, contact ShuiQi Spa, +971 4 426 1020 or dxbspa@atlantisthepalm.com

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You’ve dedicated decades to wellness. Why is it such a fundamental thing for you?

I’ve devoted over 45 years of my professional life to the spa and wellness industry. My career started in beauty journalism during the 60s, before I opened my first business – a salon in Toronto – at the age of 25. Although times were very different then, I could see how much the world was starting to change… becoming fast-paced, demanding and ultimately effecting wellbeing. The spa industry simply didn’t exist and no other brand was combining health and beauty, mind and body, natural and scientific, this was when my vision for ESPA started.

IN & AROUND PHOTOSHOOT EPICURIOUS

EPICURIOUS

A culinary update from Atlantis, The Palm

IN & AROUND EPICURIOUS

the year of the

mONkey Celebrate Chinese New Year at Atlantis, The Palm with culinary feasts that are set to be loud, colourful and full of fun

The biggest celebration in the Chinese calendar, the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, is the grandest and most important time of the year for Chinese people. With a history that dates back over 4000 years, it is a celebration that sees families come together, fables spun and sumptuous feasts prepared.

Traditionally celebrated from Chuyi – the very first day of the new year – until Chuxi – the last day of the previous year, celebrations often run even longer, sometimes for up to fifteen days after the new year commences.

This year is considered an auspicious time for anyone born in the Year of the Monkey, the ninth animal in the Chinese zodiac. Blue, gold and white are set to be lucky colours this year while it’s believed that the numbers 4 and 9 will bring good fortune over the next twelve months.

Each year, many traditions take place in celebration of the Spring Festival. Fireworks are hugely popular – keep an eye out for the fireworks at Atlantis, The Palm, which will be lighting up the night sky in celebration – red packets are given to children, typically containing money and believed to represent good fortune.

Eating also plays a central role in the festive fun. To ring in the Year of the Monkey at Atlantis, The Palm, we’ve introduced three exclusive menus, each bursting with flavour and festivity at our signature Asian restaurants.

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57

Chill bean curd with sour spicy sauce

IN & AROUND EPICURIOUS

59 I

eCleCtIC eAts At AsIA RepUBlIC

I

n casual dining hotspot Asia Republic, delicious food and an energetic atmosphere await. Chunky wooden tables are topped with lucky green bamboo and colourful ornamental bottles. Rich hues and bold aromas entice you into this tiny, but unmistakably tasty eatery located in the Avenues.

Boasting an intimate atmosphere akin to that of a funky downtown noodle house, the menu at Asia Republic is full of fun, with tick-your-own dishes that showcase Cantonese, Vietnamese, Singaporean, Thai, Indonesian and Malaysian cuisines.

Plating is quick and casual; think unfussy white dishes paired with wicker dim sum baskets and kitchen-like steamers that add to the eclectic pan-Asian vibe. The friendly chefs whip up classic Asian dishes from the open kitchen, giving you a spectacle to enjoy while you wait for your food to arrive.

In celebration of the Year of the Monkey, Chef Keith Yeap Kong and his team of culinary masters have compiled a fascinating menu of traditionally popular dishes that retain Asia Republic’s eclectic ethos. Begin the celebrations by tucking into delicious bean curd paired with spicy sour sauce, or go for something warm and sample the Szechuan hot and sour soup. When it comes to main courses try the Cantonese stir fried beef or broccoli and shrimp, or feast on steamed king prawns in plum and garlic sauce.

For a truly sweet ending to a memorable meal,

Chinese sago melon paired with black glutinous rice awaits.

Chinese traditions dictate that people place red lanterns in front of their houses and put lime trees tied up with red ribbons beside the front doors. Bowls filled with mandarins and pineapples and decorated with red ribbon are set on the dining tables and tasty sweets are served to any visitors. In order to capture the spirit of some of these traditions, Asia Republic will be trimmed with lots of bright red accessories and decorations.

Having joined the team at the restaurant a few months ago, Chef Keith is excited for his first Chinese New Year at Atlantis, The Palm.

Using his experience and past knowledge, he is excited to create food that embodies Chinese traditions and features lots of local specialities.

The man at the helm also believes that the Spring Festival is a time when family plays a huge role: “The most important thing at this time is to have a reunion dinner with all your family.” Explaining his ethos as a chef, Keith tells us: “I try to keep it simple and embrace my passion for cooking and creativity. I enjoy the working environment and the entire team here at Asia Republic, the most important thing is that we all respect each other, which makes the atmosphere fantastic and helps us to create delicious dishes for everyone to enjoy.”

Celebrate the Year of the Monkey at Asia Republic, in The Avenues.

DeC 2015 - FeB 2016 | ISSUE 04

Celebrate Chinese New Year at this casual pan-Asian eatery, ideal for the whole family

Yu Sheng Salmon Salad

IN & AROUND EPICURIOUS

61 II

FINe DININg At yUAN

F

ine dining abounds at Yuan, the upscale Chinese restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm.

Injecting glamour and sophistication into Asian cuisine, the menu here redefines traditional Cantonese and Szechuan offerings thanks to the expert touch of Executive Chef David Pang Lieng Huat.

Boasting impeccable interior design, the restaurant has been designed to reflect a traditional Chinese house and the central focus is a beautifully crafted metallic art installation that hangs dramatically from the ceiling. Soft lighting and neutral colours are stunningly accentuated by flashes of turquoise, whether in the modern coasters or colourful-tipped chopsticks. The entire restaurant embodies traditional elements of Feng Shui and creates an atmosphere that is as inviting as it is sophisticated.

To celebrate the auspicious occasion of Chinese New Year, Yuan’s skilled culinary team is pulling out all the stops with a delectable menu featuring traditional dishes from the festive period. According to Chef David: “When I was creating the Chinese New Year menu I decided that I wanted the guests to be able to experience traditional Chinese hometown New Year dishes, so that they could enjoy and explore another culture.”

Having been at Yuan for over six months, Chef David thoroughly enjoys creating new dishes for his guests to allow them to experience a taste of China, and that’s something that’s clear to see in the festive menu. Proceedings commence with a tropical fruit style ‘Yu Sheng’ salmon salad. Beautifully presented, the colours in this dish are second to none and the plating creates a shape akin to that of a flower. Season the main plate with as many of the side dishes as you desire, then use your chopsticks to mix everything together before devouring the succulent dish. Next up is a braised seafood broth flavoured with bean curd and seaweed – a

tasty and traditional offering. There’s a variety of main courses on offer including tender, boneless chicken served with black mushrooms and ham in lotus leaves, and delicious steamed sea bass perfectly paired with a spicy yellow bean sauce.

For those seeking something a little bit special, try the braised abalone served with dried scallop and oyster sauce, a fusion of flavours that will have your taste buds buzzing with delight.

There’s also sautéed prawns in traditional soya sauce and Udon seafood noodles with a black pepper sauce.

When it comes to rounding off your meal, a chilled assortment of tangy lemon jelly is the perfect refresher.

As well as delicious festive dishes, Yuan will be getting into the joyous spirit by having a major spring cleaning session, something that is popular across Asia at this time and comes from the belief that cleaning the house (or kitchen) at this time of year will sweep away any lingering bad luck. Red decorations on the kitchen walls and doors will ensure the staff get into the festive spirit too, and Chef David plans to cook traditional Chinese food specifically for the team before presenting them with traditional red money envelopes to promote good luck throughout the Year of the Monkey.

As the man at the helm at Yuan, Chef David explains that a customer enjoying his food is thrilling. “When I hear a customer compliment my food it makes me happy all day long. I draw from that inspiration, and it motivates me to make more exciting dishes, pouring my heart and passion into every dish I cook. I’m proud of what I do.”

What does Chinese New Year mean to this Executive Chinese Chef ? “It’s a time for families to come together. Wherever they are, people come home to celebrate the festival with their families. It’s a very special occasion.” Book a table on 04 426 2626 or restaurantreservations@atlantisthepalm.com

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Combining fine dining and Feng Shui, this high-end restaurant is the ideal place to celebrate the auspicious Chinese Spring Festival

Hoe See Fatt Choy

IN & AROUND EPICURIOUS

63 III

FAmIly FUN At sAFFRON

F

amed for its eclectic, exotic tastes of Asia, award wining all-day dining restaurant Saffron offers up the finest in Southeast Asian cuisine. There’s a whopping 220 daily dishes to choose from, meaning there’s certainly no lack of options when it comes to what to eat, whether you visit for lunch or dinner. Stepping into the restaurant, guests are welcomed by the contemporary atmosphere that perfectly complements the huge selection of colourful fare, making Saffron a great place to bring the entire family. With an ever-present buzz, thanks to the multitude of live cooking stations and a truly skilled culinary team, Saffron is all about colour, noise and truly tasty temptations making it the ideal place to celebrate Chinese New Year.

As the Year of the Monkey approaches, Saffron introduces an amazing array of festive dishes that are bursting with traditional flavours. Dining at Saffron during this season guarantees a sense of theatre as the skilled chefs indulge guests in the spectacle of live cooking, using the impressive Mongolian grill to prepare deliciously tender cuts of meat and fish. Sous Chef Chuah Wai Teong explains the ideas behind the exciting new festive menu, and how it is based on traditional Chinese food symbolism: “The menu is based around traditional beliefs when it comes to Chinese food. This year is extra special because the signature dish is dried mussels with black moss which, in China, represents good fortune for the entire year ahead. It’s also really easy for everyone to pronounce – Hoe See Fatt Choy – which means more people will order it!”

As well as exclusive dishes, the restaurant will keep guests entertained with a whole host of entertainment including lion dancers, fire crackers and lots of brightly coloured red and gold Chinese New Year decorations. “We will also have lots of monkey-themed decorations as it’s the Year of the Monkey, and will be giving away lucky red envelopes, mandarins and so much more,” says Chef Chuah.

Looking at the festive menu, there’s certainly an exciting line-up of dishes. Starting off with Abalone soup prepared with dried scallop and crab meat is a great way to commence

the culinary journey. This is followed with a delicious crab meat and fried rice dish. There’s also Loh Han mixed Asian vegetable with preserved red bean curd, a tasty treat that is perfect for vegetarians. Chinese mushrooms paired with fresh broccoli, and accompanied by sea cucumber in oyster sauce, is another dish to look out for.

For a taste of tradition, don’t miss out on the wok fried ramen noodles served with delicately cooked succulent shrimp. Or tuck into spicy river tiger prawns paired with superior sauce for an authentic taste of the east. If you are craving something heavier, the braised lamb ribs with cumin is sure to delight. A taste of the east is also captured in the Szechuan boiled beef, while black pepper mud crab and the infamous Singapore chilli crab are also on the menu. For those who like poultry, try the chicken drumsticks that have been braised and infused with Chinese herbs. However, whichever dish takes your fancy, do try the traditional dish Hoe See Fatt Choy (as recommended by Chef Chuah). The name of the dish means ‘happy events and prosperity,’ and is similar to Gong Hei Fat Choy, the traditional New Year’s greeting.

As the Sous Chef at one of the biggest buffet restaurants in Dubai, what is Chef Chuah’s personal cooking ethos? “A strong Chinese ethnic identity with a balance of Cantonese cuisine” he says, proudly. Having been at Saffron for four years, it’s a cooking style he has perfected.

With this time of the year being very special to him, Chef Chuah tells us how he always looks forward to celebrating New Year at Atlantis, The Palm. “I remember it vividly,” he says. “Every year Saffron is always fully booked during Chinese New Year with over 1,200 guests. But this year I’m looking forward to welcoming 1,500 guests for a huge celebration.

It’s a very meaningful time, and as the biggest celebration of the entire year – and the most important festival for Chinese people across the world – it is a really exciting time.” Book a table on 04 426 2626 or restaurantreservations@ atlantisthepalm.com

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Get together with family and friends and indulge in delicious buffet style selections as you ring in the Year of the Monkey

IN & AROUND EPICURIOUS

64 THE TASTE OF PASSION

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

Head to the brandnew Lebanese dining experience at Atlantis for a taste of tradition, perfectly paired with Chef Ali’s vibrant passion for food

H

ailing from Zahle, in the mountains of Lebanon, Ali El Bourji knew he wanted to be a chef from an early age.

Starting cookery school two years earlier than most, his fondness for food was something that his mother both loved and loathed. “My mum shouted at me a lot, usually because I would always try to taste food from the pot – before it was ready – by dipping my finger in it. But from that, she knew that I wanted to be a chef and she encouraged me to do what made me happy.”

And it’s an encouragement that has certainly paid off for the Executive Arabic Chef who now heads up the entire Arabic cuisine repertoire at Atlantis, The Palm. Whether planning dishes for the hugely popular Asateer Ramadan tent, providing catering for weddings and VIP events, or overseeing Arabic offerings in Shawafel, Kaleidoscope or the in-room dining menu, the past seven years at Atlantis, The Palm has been an exhilarating journey for the chef. It’s a journey that’s just garnered a huge increase in pace, thanks to the much-anticipated February opening of the brand new Lebanese restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm.

Located in the same site that used to house Levantine – the hotel’s original Lebanese offering - guests are in for a completely new experience at the stunning restaurant which, at the time of writing, was keeping its name firmly under wraps. According to Chef Ali: “It’s in the same site (as Levantine), but everything is new.

The décor, the menu, the layout, the service – it’s a whole new experience. Everything has been changed. Well, everything except me!” With passion simply exuding from him as he speaks about his love for food, we can’t help but think that keeping this one constant was indeed a good thing.

IN & AROUND EPICURIOUS

65 MAkE A RESERvATION

Left to right: Baked lobster; Stuffed baby marrow; Knaffe prawns; Humus, green bulgar wheat salad and freshly baked bread

Chef Ali brings 25 years of cooking experience to the table, and his fantastic new menu promises all sorts of pleasures. “I’m from Zahle and the area is very famous for mezze and lots of traditional Arabic food, so I definitely try to incorporate that into my cooking. That said, I like to add to or evolve certain dishes, so long as the change complements the core ingredients.”

One such offering on the new menu is the delicious baked lobster. Moving away from typical grilled lobsters available at the majority of Lebanese restaurants, this dish involves baking only the highest quality of fresh lobster in the oven before stuffing it with the creamiest cheese imaginable. The result is a mouthwatering delight.

The ‘knaffe prawns’ are another striking dish. Beautifully plated, locally sourced grilled prawns are nestled in knaffe nests and served with dipping sauces in a manner that’s reminiscent of a delicate work of art.

Lebanese staples such as humus and halloumi have been given a twist; the humus blended with ice to ensure it is served at just the perfect temperature and the halloumi expertly sourced from Cyprus so that it retains it’s creamy texture for as long as it is being enjoyed.

For those with a sweet tooth, a pomegranate sorbet is a refreshingly tasty choice while the citrus and ashata white chocolate cake is a must-try.

With beautifully sourced plates, traditional entertainment and belly dancing, live music, a fantastic shisha service with exciting flavours and, lest we forget, delicious food of the highest quality, all headed up by a charismatic Chef whose passion can be tasted in every mouthful, we simply cannot wait to book a table.

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

Opening in February 2016 - for reservations, call + 971 4 426 2626 or email restaurantreservations@atlantisthepalm.com

IN & AROUND FOOD DIRECTORY

67 FOOD DIRECTORY

Exclusive to Atlantis, The Palm, Plato’s handcrafted chocolates are entirely delicious

OSSIANO Winner of best seafood restaurant three years in a row*, Ossiano serves elegant seafood with a stunning setting alongside the resort’s mesmerising aquarium.

Order: The Saturday afternoon tea with caviar.

BREAD STREET KITCHEN & BAR Modern British food and delicious drinks in an eclectic atmosphere.

Order: Signature tamarind wings.

NOBU Contemporary Japanese with subtle South American influences.

Order: Black cod in miso.

SEAFIRE New York-style steakhouse perfect for the entire family.

Order: Atlantis Beef.

RONDA LOCATELLI Seasonal and classic authentic cuisine from the North and South of Italy.

Order: A wood-fired pizza.

YUAN Winner of best Chinese restaurant*, YUAN serves up contemporary Chinese with a modern twist.

Order: The Friday Yum Cha brunch.

SAFFRON Award-winning Asian cuisine with a reputation to match.

Order: Try the Friday brunch, the biggest party in Dubai.

KALEIDOSCOPE Buffet restaurant with international flavours from all around the world.

Order: Try the Indian Heat theme night each Monday.

NASIMI BEACH Relaxed beachside dining venue that transforms into a lively bar at night.

Order: The king prawns.

POSEIDON CAFÉ Casual bites served with a great view of The Ambassador Lagoon.

Order: Continental breakfast, served 8am to 11am.

THE EDGE Mediterranean cuisine served poolside.

Order: The grilled seafood platter and a signature cocktail.

Quick Eats SHAWAFEL A cool fast-food joint offering a blend of two Middle Eastern favourites, shawarma and falafel.

Order: The signature shawafel wrap

TBJ

THE SHORE

A fun and family friendly burger joint serving gourmet burgers to go.

Order: The ‘Beast Burger’

Tex-Mex cuisine served beside the Royal Pool.

Order: An authentic Mexican chimichanga.

ASIA REPUBLIC

PLATO’S

Cuisine from the Far East served in a beautifully decorated restaurant.

Order: Curry Laksa followed by Chinese tea.

Traditional Arabian coffee house, ideal for refuelling during the day.

Order: The specially-crafted chocolates.

*Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2015

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

Skip room service and head to one of our brilliant restaurants and bars.

Below you’ll find the chefs’ top tips for what to eat where. Go on, tuck in…

IN & AROUND PHOTOSHOOT

69 SECTION III

OUT & ABOUT

JUNE - AUG 2015 | ISSUE 02

Dubai: Meet the people, see the sites and experience the best bits

The Bentley S3

OUT & ABOUT BENTLEY EXPERIENCE

70 A VINTAGE VANTAGE

ATLANTIS, THE MAGAZINE

Fancy whizzing through the city of record-breaking buildings, towering skyscrapers and unabashed bling in the comfort and elegance of a 1965 vintage Bentley? Atlantis, The Magazine finds out how you can make it happen...

K

nown for its love of grandeur, Dubai certainly isn’t short of tourist attractions. Whether you want to see the world’s tallest building, dine in a celebrity chef ’s restaurant or shop in the Middle East’s biggest mall, there’s so much to see and do. But what about getting beneath the surface of the city and discovering its hidden gems? Even better, what about doing all of that from the supreme comfort of a beautiful 1965 Bentley? Platinum Heritage, Dubai’s most popular tour company, allows you to do exactly that with their fantastic Bentley Experiences.

With a chauffeur team that’s headed up by a multilingual, Dubai Tourism-licensed guide – who also happens to be an avid classic car collector and a qualified mechanic – guests can relax knowing they are in the perfect hands of a man who knows everything there is to know about the classic car and its fascinating history.

Sink into the comfort of the Bentley S3, a perfect blend of automotive luxury and heritage, and let the experts introduce you to Dubai.

As dedicated auto-enthusiasts, we were excited to sample the Car Connoisseur experience offered by Platinum Heritage. Whether you view the world’s most beautiful cars as investments, works of art or a fascinating collection of memorabilia, this tour will placate the strongest automobile cravings in even the most privileged vintage motoring enthusiast. We set out to try it for ourselves.

Chawki greets us with a smile as he opens the sleek silver door of our Bentley for the day. And what a car it is, a 40-year-old classic Bentley in

pristine condition. Everything about it exudes elegance. Sinking into the back seat of the vehicle – upholstered in plush cream leather with mahogany wood accents – we head of on the first part of the tour, a visit to a private collection containing some of the finest classic cars in the world. A collection valued at over Dhs250 million. Boasting both the Gullwing and Roadster versions of the Mercedes 300sl, a trio of 1960s Aston Martins and a $15million mint condition 1960 Ferrari, we’re absolutely thrilled to be in touching distance of these magnificent machines. We even get to chat to the collector himself.

Buzzing with fervour we stop for lunch at a classic-car themed cafe, a charming spot offering French and European favourites in a space entirely dedicated to car lovers.

Next, it’s time for the adrenaline-fuelled part of the tour, racing in a McLaren. Available as an add on to the basic tour, we head towards the Dubai Autodrome where a race-prepared McLaren MP4-12c waits patiently for our arrival. After a safety briefing and demo, we’re ready to take control.

Sitting in the coveted driver’s seat, excitement courses through our body. Pressing lightly on the pedal, we shoot forward with 625hp of force.

The handling on this machine is superb and it’s not long before we’re taking the corners with (relative) ease. Tearing up the tarmac is an epic feeling, and one that we’re not likely to forget in a hurry.

For bookings or more information, see the concierge team at Atlantis, The Palm

OUT & ABOUT BENTLEY EXPERIENCE

71

Why did you feel a Bentley was the right car for the experience?

Platinum Heritage is known for having two distinct collections; the Platinum Collection focuses on luxury and exclusivity while our Heritage Collection are authentic experiences demonstrating the history and culture of the region. Therefore, a classic 1965 Bentley is the automotive epitome of a perfect blend of luxury and heritage.

What’s the most memorable Bentley experience you’ve arranged?

Our very first experience will always be the best; a gentleman completely took his girlfriend by surprise when the Bentley arrived at the hotel they were staying in. From there, he took her to the most romantic dining venue in Dubai and ended the night with a heartwarming (and successful) marriage proposal. For us, the Bentley Experience we designed that night for them will be a lifelong memory.

Is the experience family friendly?

While the experiences are primarily for couples, we had an amazing father and son Car Connoisseur Experience. They both got very excited when they saw the cars they had dreamt about over the years, directly in front of them.

What makes the Bentley Experience special?

For a general overview of Dubai, there are so many options. However, there was nothing catering to the more specific requests of guests who wanted to delve deeper into their Dubai experience. It is not just the type of vehicle that makes these tours special but the bespoke nature of being able to design your own itinerary, or choose from a range of experiences usually inaccessible or unknown to 99% of international guests and even local residents.

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

Adam McEwan, Managing Director at Platinum Heritage, tells us a bit more about the Bentley experiences

Desert Fat Bike Ride

Starting from

595 AED per person

platinum-heritage.com +971 4 388 4044

Enjoy a Fat Bike ride through a protected Conservation Reserve in search of native flora and fauna.

OUT & ABOUT CAMEL RACING

73 The oldest sport in the country has seen something of a revival, with the UAE’s inaugural camel marathon having recently taken place. We find out a bit more about the sport...

A

s the first rays of sunlight begin to slip through the fog-covered sky above, there’s a sense of excitement in the air.

While the last camel takes its place on the track, the net in front of the animals is lifted and suddenly the camels are off, hurtling down a sandy track at speeds of up to 40kph – this is camel racing at its best.

On either side of the track, 4x4 trucks hurtle alongside the action, giving the camel owners an up-close view. Shouts of ‘Yalla’ and ‘Mumtaz’ fill the air and, as the camels near the finish line, excitement in the seated grandstand platform rises to a crescendo. With the crowd on their feet, one of the gangly creatures canters across the line securing a well-earned victory.

According to Souad Ibrahim Darwish, Director of Championships at Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, the sport is a great spectacle for tourists and locals alike. Speaking about this year’s inaugural camel marathon he said: “it is a celebration of culture, to prompt UAE citizens to follow the tack of their forefathers and sustain this rich, long-stretched Emirati heritage.”

Prized throughout the ages, camels certainly hold a revered place in Emirati society. Having traditionally been used for everything from travel to sustenance and relied upon as a dependable guide for navigating treacherous desert terrain, it’s no surprise that the Arabic name for the animal translates literally to God’s gift. Even today, the dromedary camel is still wholly respected, with heavy fines for anyone found mistreating the animals, even if this involves accidentally hitting one on the open highways.

Traditionally a part of local festive occasions, camel racing has grown to become one of the most popular sports in the country and offers fantastic prizes for the winners. This year’s inaugural marathon was a landmark occasion and beckons the start of a new lease of life for the ancient ‘sport of sheikhs’.

Taxi ref: Al Marmoum Camel Race Track, on the Dubai-Al Ain Road (take the exit after The Sevens Stadium). Racing starts at 6.30am weekly from September to April, call ahead to confirm dates via +971 04 832 6526.

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A dAy At thE RACES

OUT & ABOUT ITINERARY

75

from top to bottom: Deira Creek; Dubai Fountains; Nobu; Skydive Dubai

fIRsT-TImER’s ITINERARY

Just two days to take in one of the world’s most exciting cities? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered

DAY ONE 10am Take the plunge Get an early start and head to Dolphin Bay to kick start your Dubai adventure by meeting the friendly pod at Atlantis, The Palm.

11am

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | IssUE 04

Historic Dubai Head to Jumeirah Mosque, one of the only mosques in the city open to non-Muslim visitors. Tours are offered four times a week and last around 75 minutes. While you’re on this side of town, don’t forget to check out the towering Union Flag. It marks the site where the country’s flag was first unveiled in 1972, when Ras Al Khaimah joined the UAE.

1pm Time to fly Get ready for some adrenaline-filled fun as you take to the skies for an exhilarating tandem skydive. Catch your breath after an amazing freefall, then soar majestically above The Palm you can even see Atlantis, The Palm.

4pm Dunebashing Head back to Atlantis, The Palm to await your pick-up for an epic desert safari. Rolling dune bashing, camel riding, belly dancers, henna and traditional Emirati cuisine into one, it’s a mustdo for first-timers.

DAY TwO

10pm

9am

6pm

Wind down End your day on a high at Nasimi Beach Club.

Sip on a refreshing beverage and enjoy fantastic music. With previous acts including Rudimental and Raxon, you can rest assured you’re in for a great end to the day.

Old Town Back to the other side of town, hop on an Abra (water taxi) for an early morning ride down Dubai Creek. Disembark on the Deira side to spend an hour wandering in Dubai’s souqs, picking up souvenirs and trying a cup of local qahwa (Arabic coffee).

Fountain spectacle The Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, shoots water up to 152m in the air, beautifully synchronised to music and light. It’s totally free of charge, takes place every 30 minutes, and is nothing short of spectacular.

11am

8pm

Shopping galore With over 1,200 shops (from high street to high end), an indoor Olympic-size ice-rink, Sega Republic indoor theme park and a gold souk, The Dubai Mall has something for everyone.

Dine in style It’s time to head back to Atlantis, The Palm for some of the finest food in the city. Celebrity chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s Nobu serves up delicious Japanese food with a unique twist.

4pm

10pm

Dizzy heights The longest travel distance elevator in existence will whisk you to the top of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, where you can drink in the amazing views across the city.

An evening stroll For bustling cafes, street-side entertainment and beachfront fun, The Walk at JBR is the perfect place to meander away your last few hours in the city.

It’s more than just a dinner cruise

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OUT & ABOUT CITY SOUQS

Main image: Islamic architecture at the Textile Souq Inset: An array of carpets at the Textile Souq

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DElvIng InTO DUbaI’S SOUQS A trip to Dubai isn’t complete without a visit to a souq. These traditional Arabian markets are teeming with unique wares, sun-weathered traders and bustling ambiance. Atlantis, The Magazine takes a look at five of Dubai’s must-see souqs

Perhaps not quite what you might expect, the Dubai Gold Souq – which is reportedly the biggest in the Middle Eastern region – is actually more a series of streets lined with glass-fronted shops all packed to the rafters with dazzling diamonds, sparkling silver and, of course, lots and lots of gold. A major tourist attraction, this place is always busy and the bustling atmosphere simply adds to the experience. Located on the north side of Dubai Creek, it’s the place to go if you want to pick up something special as a reminder of your time in Dubai.

Taxi reference: Gold Souq near Baniyas Square

• The Textile Souq While you may not see an actual flying carpet, Dubai’s Textile Souq is the place to go for hand-woven rugs à la Aladdin. You can also select from a huge array of rainbow-hued saris and shimmering headscarves. The Bur Dubaibased market – which can also be reached via a quick abra ride – sources the majority of its fabrics from India, so a kaleidoscope of colours is guaranteed, ideal if you’re seeking something special to have made into a bespoke suit. Located close to Al Fahidi Fort, take a few moments to appreciate the Islamic-style architecture of the market with its wooden shutters, hanging lanterns and narrow covered walkways. Taxi reference: Souq at Dubai Muesum

DEC JAN2015 - APRIL - FEB2016 2016| ISSUE | ISSUE04 04 JAN - APRIL 2016 | ISSUE 04

• The Dubai Gold Souq

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OUT & ABOUT CITY SOUQS

Clockwise, from top left: Spices at the Spice Souq; Dubai Gold Souq; Mojari shoes for sale at the souq

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When you’ve had your fill of markets, there’s no shortage of modern shopping options across the city. The 21st Dubai Shopping Festival takes place from January 1st to February 7th and is the best time of the year to find amazing bargains and fantastic offers Retail Therapy Discover the very best of Dubai’s malls. Whether you splurge in Mall of the Emirates, have a shopping marathon in The Dubai Mall or wander the stores at City Walk, there’s something for every budget and DSF deals ensure you will get a great deal.

Get Lucky

• The Spice Souq For a heady experience, visit the maze-like walkways of Deira Spice Souq where the streets are lined high with canvas sacks stuffed with pungent spices. Wind your way through the narrow cobbled lanes of this bustling area – also known as the Old Souq – and chat with the friendly vendors who’ll be more than happy to give you some tips on the best way to use their spices. Traditionally used cumin, known locally as kamoon, can be found at every stall as well as other staples like coriander and nutmeg. But if you only buy one thing, make sure it’s the local bezar – a traditional mixture of roasted spices, pounded together to create a mildly spicy herb that’s used to flavor fish and meat dishes, it’s one of the fundamentals of Emirati cuisine. This is one stop foodies shouldn’t miss.

Taxi reference: Deira Abra Station

• The Perfume Souk World-renowned for its lingering scents, Arabian perfumes typically come in two types, both of which can be sourced at Deira’s pungent Perfume Souq. Be prepared for a heady assault

on the senses and the feeling of being in an old apothecary shop as you step into small stores where shelves are piled high with a harlequin of glass jars and canisters containing multihued oils, liquids and substances of every scent imaginable. Pick up some oud or the slightly less expensive bukhoor. For something a little easier to manage, you can also pick up tiny bottles of fragranced oil for rubbing onto pulse points in place of regular perfume.

Taxi reference: Perfume Souq near the Gold Souq, off Old Baladiya Street

• The Fish Souq Definitely the smelliest of the souqs, a visit to this covered market on Deira Corniche will no doubt provide one of your most memorable moments, if only for the powerful smells set to envelop you. Early morning is the best time to go to see flocks of fishermen arriving with freshly caught hauls of crab, local hamour, red snapper and countless other varieties of seafood.

Stall owners are happy to barter and prepare purchases as you’d like them, so don’t be shy.

Taxi reference: Fish Roundabout in Deira

One of the best things about DSF is the opportunity it affords everyone to win fantastic prizes.

From super cars to luxury holidays and top of the range electronics, there are new contests every day.

Fireworks Galore As a city, Dubai loves its fireworks and DSF is a great excuse to light up the sky. With firework displays that are free for all, it’s definitely something to see. Check out the spectacular displays opposite JBR every day of the festival.

DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 | ISSUE 04

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL

Lulu Guinness Lulu Lips Silk Scarf OUT & ABOUT CHECK OUT

Check Out

GRY FORSSELL The Swedish presenter and talk-

80 Feas t taco on delicio s at N obu us tuna

show host talks fireworks, fun and finding time for naps during her stay at Atlantis Why I love Dubai?

No sun, no fun!

Secret to looking so good?

Gry e njo Nasim ying i Beac h

I take naps when I feel I need to, I don’t always answer emails right away – I wait until I have the time and urge to do so and I try not to over book myself. I also have the best family and most supportive husband you could imagine, all of that and make up!

Favourite Atlantis, The Palm restaurant?

Nobu – I love the mini tuna tacos and the yellow tail with jalapeno.

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Favourite place to take the kids?

Aquaventure Waterpark! There is something for everyone, regardless of age and I’m so proud I tried Poseidon’s Revenge – I loved it!

What’s on your iPod? Something Swedish or Bob Marley.

Travel beauty essentials?

Moisturiser, lip gloss and mineral powder.

It’s hard to use much more when you’re flying or spending time somewhere as warm as Dubai. And a great pair of sunglasses of course!

Most memorable Dubai moment?

My friend Axwell played at Sandance at Atlantis on New Year’s Eve and our families spent a holiday here together. The holiday was all great, but New Years’ Eve was a standout moment. We had the best in-room dinner from Nobu then took all the kids to the beach to watch the craziest fireworks I have ever seen before Axwell went on stage.

A memory for life!

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for th arley Bob M t holiday c perfe rack t sound

Motto in life?

Just what Jack Nicholson said: “When you’re through changing, you’re through.”

Favourite celebrity that you’ve interviewed?

Oh that’s such a hard question to answer…

Ronan Keating, James Morrison, Gavin DeGraw, Meghan Trainor. Lady Gaga performed on one of the television shows I present and it was really cool to see her perform up close.

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Don’t leave home without… …a big, thin scarf. It can be used as a blanket on the flight, for warmth on chilly nights, or to wrap around the kids when they get tired.

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