DHS 10 JANUARY 2011 ISSUE 393
WIN!
A STAY AT SHANGRI-LA, QARYAT AL BERI
54 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFE IN 2011
UAE DHS 10 OMAN RO 1.000
Contents Features 12 All you can eat Loosen those belts, we’ve found the best evening brunches and buffets in the capital
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16 Abu Dhabi Golf Championship The big names and big action at this month’s tournament 21 New year, new you Yup, it’s that time of year again. Make your resolutions and stick to them with our essential guide
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The round-up 10 Salaam Everything you need to know about January, plus chatting with a National Geographic photographer
55 Sport and outdoor Mr Fitness tackles your January issues, plus we meet a triathlete and tell you how to prepare for the marathon
14 Win win win Win a night’s stay and breakfast for two at the very lovely Shangri-La Qaryat al Beri
61 Music and clubs Musician Jay Wud gets chilly, plus which dance floors you should be hitting this month
28 Films Heavy hitters from the silver screen including Black Swan, The Green Hornet and Simon Pegg’s latest offering, Paul
65 Travel Swiss bliss in Ascona, the top travel deals and going on holiday with the founder of Lonely Planet
31 Eating out Exciting Arabic at Zaroob, the new farmers’ market, a visit to Stay by Yannick Alléno, the latest openings and more 40 Art Behind the scenes at Shakespeare 4 Kids, five minutes with Syrian painter Kais Salman and the exhibitions you must see this month
73 Hot lists Who will start the year at the top of the table? 90 Backchat Deputy Editor Helen on what you should be resolving in 2011
44 Shopping Our must-have buys of the month, plus sartorially chic Sophia helps out readers in need 47 Mind and body We investigate at-home spas, visit the capital's Zayna Spa, check out the new Talise spa and find the best beauty bargains 4 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
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InterContinental Abu Dhabi . Call 800 423463.
This month we’ve been... Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Group Editor & Managing Partner lan Fairservice Group Senior Editor Gina Johnson | gina@motivate.ae Senior Editor Mark Evans | marke@motivate.ae Deputy Editor Helen Spearman | helen@motivate.ae Features Editor Gareth Rees | gareth@motivate.ae Chief Sub Editor Iain Smith | iains@motivate.ae Senior Designer Sheila Lyn Carino | sheila@motivate.ae Editorial Assistant/Picture Researcher Karen Sequeira | karen@motivate.ae Picture Researcher - Gulfpics Wayne Fernandez | wayne@motivate.ae Contributors Naveed Ahmed, Victor Besa, James Brennan, Louise Browne, Vikram Gawde, James Houghton, Catherine Jarvie, Russell Kempson, Richard Luck, Conor Purcell, Farooq Salik, Thomas Shambler, Simon Smedley, Sophia Triantafillou, Adam Workman Cover Antoine Corbineau/folioart.co.uk General Manager Production and Circulation S Sasidharan | sasidharan@motivate.ae Production Manager Sudhakar Chandran | sudhakar@motivate.ae Production Controller Murali Krishnan | muralik@motivate.ae General Manager – Group Sales Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae Senior Advertisement Manager Dale Isaac | dale@motivate.ae Advertisement Manager Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae General Manager, Abu Dhabi Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae Advertisement Manager, Abu Dhabi Darryl Wiley | darryl@motivate.ae Annual Subscription GCC Dhs120 other countries US$70 (including Airmail charges)
Cooking with local produce, p36
Completing our training, p55
Trying spas at home, p50
Editor’s note OK, I’m going to let you in on a secret – I’m actually writing this before the new year. I know, I’m sorry, I’m spoiling the magazine magic here, and I don’t want to go all Marty McFly on you, but the fact is New Year, New You is still about two and half weeks away for me at this stage. So while I’d dearly love to extol the virtues of a sound mind and body, as Team What’s On have done so beautifully from page 21, Team What’s On’s Editor is busy eating Pad Thai and drinking a can of fizzy orange. But don’t let my example bother you – come new year (which, er, is now for you), I’ll be right there with you, sorting both mind and body. We (and I say ‘we’, but I mean ‘the team’ – I’m busy with that Pad Thai, remember?) have come up with the definitive guide to a better 2011 and, ultimately, a better you. From finances to finding new friends, from getting in shape to this year’s trendiest travel destinations, we’ve got you covered. And, come January (for me – we’ve already established that’s now for you), I’ll be joining you and ditching the Thai food for carrots and all the rest of it. But for now, keep that a secret.
Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae
Happy New Year, and all the best for 2011.
Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845
Enjoy the issue.
Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae
Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 9
We're officially part of the Twitterati. Follow us at WhatsOnAbuDhabi for exclusive updates on nightlife, restaurants and more around the UAE. Tweet yourself.
Salaam! One month, two pages
What’s hot Photography competition To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Arabian Heritage Books, Motivate Publishing (that’s us) is launching a photography exhibition. Send in your best pics illustrating the culture of the UAE and, if you win, your snap will be included in a coffee table book – plus you’ll receive US$1,000. Deadline Feb 20. www.motivatepublishing.com Historical site A 1,400-year-old pre-Islamic Christian monastery has opened to the public on Sir Bani Yas Island. Discovered in 1992, it is thought to have been built by a community of monks around 600AD. Prince of Poets Every Wednesday on Abu Dhabi TV you can catch recorded episodes of this popular Arabic poetry competition.
What’s not Road works When are they going to finish the road works on Salaam Street? They’ve been messing about for a year now. We’re sick of the sight of it. Sort it out.
ISTOCK
Temperature complaints It’s not cold. It’s still 20-odd degrees. The sun is shining. Half of Europe is buried under snow, with minus temperatures – that’s cold. Quit your moaning. Tailors and dry cleaners We’ve all been there, haven’t we? You take your favourite T-shirt to one dry cleaner and they shrink it. And no accountability? At all? We’re getting a bit sick of it. 10 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Guess list Rumours doing the rounds in Dubai
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MARCO PIERRE WHITE Having flown to London to interview the purportedly fearsome chef in 2009, we ended up dining at Frankie’s in Abu Dhabi with the man (and, oddly, the Queen of England’s cousin) last time he was out to visit his UAE restaurants. So we’re looking forward to his next visit, which we hear could well be in February.
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EVERYTHING EVERYTHING The art rock outfit from England’s Manchester are being hailed as the next big thing in their home country. Howard from Take That is a big fan, apparently. We’re pretty tight with the drummer’s sister, and she tells us the band is keen to pay us a visit in 2011.
We told you so... PHARRELL WILLIAMS AND N.E.R.D Oh, we’re good. We broke this one months ago, and, indeed, hip hop/R&B star Pharell and his band N.E.R.D will perform in the UAE, at the Gulf Bike Week, Feb 10 to 12. MACY GRAY We heard a rumour about this one early last year, and sure enough, American R&B songstress Macy Gray is coming to the UAE, and will appear at the Dubai Jazz Festival, Feb 17.
This month we’re going to… MOVIE NIGHT Now, Meet The Fockers is not the newest of films, but it’s certainly a good ‘un and you don’t often find open-air cinemas in Abu Dhabi. Make sure you make your way to The Village Club Roof this month to catch Stiller and De Niro in fine fettle alfresco on the big screen. Jan 17, One To One Hotel, Abu Dhabi, 8.30pm, free. Tel: (02) 4952000. www.onetoonehotels. com
Five Questions… Ira Block American photographer Ira Block has been shooting for National Geographic for 40 years, travelling across the globe. This month he is heading up the two day Click and Stay digital photography workshop at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi What can people expect from the workshop? It’s very hands on, a lot of shooting. Last year’s workshop was mostly wildlife because we were out at a game reserve, but this year we’re in the desert so I’m expecting desert scenes and there’s a lot of architecture around, too. I will guide the students totally. When we reach the area we will shoot together, a few of them will see things and wander off on their own, but I’m always around for questions and to show them different techniques to improve their photos. Do you host these workshops often? I’m still active shooting for National Geographic and right now I’m in the middle of a couple of stories for them. I have something coming up this month, actually, a local US story about an ancient Native American group in the States. You spend the rest of the year travelling? I used to be on the road seven or eight months a year, but now it’s six months. People always ask me where I’ve been and I say it’s easier to ask me where I haven’t
SPECTACULAR VIEWS Four venues in the capital with grand views
AL FANAR
been. As far as the major places go, I’ve been everywhere in the world apart from India. That’s one people always expect me to have been to, but I just haven’t been there for whatever reason. You must have done a lot of memorable shoots? My last shoot is usually the most memorable, because it’s fresh, but every shoot has its own great interest to it. In the last few years I’ve been working a lot in Asia and South America. I like those continents because the cultures are really different to, say, Europe, where I used to work a lot. The culture and tradition is visually different from Western cultures. And the UAE? Last year was my first trip to the UAE, but otherwise I’ve been to Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. I’m looking forward to it. Jan 20 to 22, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Abu Dhabi, Dhs6,172 (including two nights, meals and drinks). Tel: (02) 8862088. www.irablock. com
The whole point in building a 360degree-revolving restaurant is the view, and Al Fanar restaurant at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi doesn’t disappoint. On one side you will see the waters of the Arabian Gulf and on the other is the city of Abu Dhabi. Can’t say fairer than that, now, can you? Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6742020. www. starwoodhotels.com
PEARLS
The rooftop bar offers one of the most impressive views in the city. Sit back with a cocktail and listen to the chill out tunes floating on the evening breeze as you gaze out over the water at the The Grand Mosque, lit up and displayed in all its majesty. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.shangri-la.com
THE YACHT CLUB
It’s not only one of our favourite bars, currently sitting at number two on our Hot List, but The Yacht Club sits right beside the marina with splendid vistas of the various luxury boats bobbing on the water. InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Sat to Wed noon to 1am, Thurs noon to 3am, Fri 2pm to 3am, Sat 5pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com
SKYLITE AL AIN AEROBATIC SHOW We love to watch those magnificent men in their flying machines. The Red Bull Air Race is one of the highlights of the Abu Dhabi sporting calendar. But this year you don’t have to wait until March. In the first week of February six pilots will go head to head at the Federation Aeronautique International (FAI) Desert Challenge. Chocks away, ginger! Feb 2 to 5, Al Ain International Airport, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Dhs40. www.alainaerobaticshow.com
WORLD ORCHESTRA FOR PEACE OK, so it’s a really silly name for an orchestra, but its heart is clearly in the right place. This month the eighth edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival welcomes Peace Maestro (yep, that’s right) Valery Gergiev and his World Orchestra For Peace. Well, the theme is 'harmony for humanity'. Jan 4, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, Dhs195 to Dhs495. www.abudhabifestival.ae
Through the honeycomb lattice roof of Skylite bar you can see the stars twinkling in the night sky, the racetrack and the marina. Cracking. The Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to 3am. Tel: (02) 6560000. www. theyashotel.com Find us at www.facebook.com/WhatsOnAbuDhabi
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 11
We’ve loaded up our plates and braved buffets across the capital to find you Abu Dhabi’s finest evening brunches
Dhs235 for the seafood buffet. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6773333. www. starwoodhotels.com WHAT? The buffet WHERE? Chamas, InterContinental Abu Dhabi WHEN? Daily 6pm to 11.30pm WHY? One of our favourite restaurants, Chamas isn’t afraid of offending a few vegetarians with its nightly offer of freshly barbecued skewers. But if any herbivore dares to attend they’ll find a salad bar. The staff are enthusiastic, so arrive hungry. HOW MUCH? Dhs235 per person or Dhs295 with freeflowing caipirinhas. InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6666888
Flavours
WHAT? Arabian Nights WHERE? Mai Café, Aloft WHEN? Thursdays 6pm to 10.30pm WHY? Every Thursday night you’ll find a full Arabian-style buffet for a great price. Head there straight from work for a good, meaty feed and unlimited drinks – always a good way to end the week. HOW MUCH? Dhs163 including house beers, wines and soft drinks, Dhs134 without alcohol and Dhs67 for children. Aloft Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, Tel: (02) 6545000. www. aloftabudhabi.com 12 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
WHAT? Asian and seafood theme nights WHERE? Flavours, Sheraton WHEN? Mondays 7pm to 11.30pm and Wednesdays 7.30pm to 11.30pm WHY? You’ll find a bountiful buffet of the best in Eastern and Far Eastern cuisine on Mondays, with live cooking stations, authentic Chinese dishes and music from the resident pianist. On Wednesdays it’s seafood night. Expect unlimited superfresh lobster, crab, oysters, shrimp, sushi and sashimi. HOW MUCH? Dhs185 for Asian night, including house wine and
Ginger
Mai Café
WHAT? Seafood night WHERE? Ginger, Park Rotana WHEN? Thursdays 7pm to 11.30pm WHY? Kick the weekend off with food from the watery depths. Seafood delicacies can be cooked to order and you’ll find a vast buffet packed with salads and desserts. You’ll leave stuffed to the gills. HOW MUCH? Dhs160. Park Rotana, Al Salaam Street, Khalifa Park area, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6573333. www.rotana.com WHAT? Three meal deals WHERE? La Terrazza, Hilton Abu Dhabi WHEN? Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 7pm to 11pm WHY? The generous folks at the Hilton put on three offers each
HOW MUCH? Dhs130, plus drinks. Bacchanalia night and Four Corners Dhs165, including unlimited selected drinks. Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6811900. www. hilton.com
week at La Terrazza, with a buffet on Monday nights where you can get selected house beverages for only Dhs1 per drink. The Bacchanalia night on Wednesdays welcomes you with a Roman feast, with Mediterranean cuisine, live cooking stations and unlimited drinks, while Thursdays at La Terraza means Four Corners night, with dishes from all over the world and unlimited house beverages. Jing Asia
WHAT? Surf ‘n’ Turf WHERE? Jing Asia, Crowne Plaza Yas Island WHEN? Wednesdays 7pm to midnight WHY? Who doesn’t love a little turf with their surf? The best food from the land and the sea will meet on your plate at this weekly buffet, where there’s also the option of throwing a little grape into the mix. HOW MUCH? Dhs190 including house beverages and Dhs160 excluding alcohol. Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6563000 WHAT? Indian night WHERE? Selections WHEN? Wednesdays 7pm to 10.30pm WHY? Unlimited curry? We don’t think further elaboration is required. Selections boasts some spectacular views of the beach and each Wednesday you can come over all sub-continental with curries from the kitchen. HOW MUCH? Dhs155 or Dhs215 including unlimited selected drinks. InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6666888. www. ichotelsgroup.com
WHAT? Buffet dinner WHERE? Sofra BLD WHEN? Daily, 7pm to 11pm. WHY? Legions of loyal fans love Sofra BLD for its impressive gourmet buffet. Dishes from all over the globe jostles with acres of desserts as diners loosen their belts and get competitive piling
Sofra BLD
food on their plates. Thoroughly recommended for both lovers of top tucker and those who just love tucking in. HOW MUCH? Dhs199, excluding drinks. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 5098888 WHAT? BBQ buffet WHERE? The Village Club, One to One Hotel WHEN? Daily, 6pm until late. WHY? Every night the meat maestros at The Village Club fire up the barbecues and grill for the hungry hordes. With a lovely garden and plenty to keep the children busy, this is a reliable favourite through the cooler months. HOW MUCH? Dhs140. One to One Hotel, The Village, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4952000. www. onetoonehotels.com
La Terraza
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 13
Win with What’s On WIN! A STAY AT SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, QARYAT AL BERI The season of giving might be over, but we’re still feeling generous and want to whisk one lucky reader to the stunning five-star Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri. The winner will score a night for two, including a buffet breakfast at Sofra bld, plus use of all the facilities, including the lovely pool. For your chance to win a night of luxury in the capital, simply tell us… Which meals does Sofra bld serve? a) Breakfast, lunch and dinner? b) Bread buns, lollipops and dimsum c) Branflakes, lasagna and Diet Coke
ON M CLICHKMOTIVATE.CDOS
A IT ND LO .WINW WWW TER THIS A ITIONS N T E E TO COMP MORE
14 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Abu Dhabi
Championship Dubai might be home to THE YOUNG PRETENDER the final showdown of the RORY MCILROY season, but the Abu Dhabi You managed your first PGA Tour win this Golf Championship is the year, becoming the first person since Tiger to win before their 21st birthday. How did first big tournament on the that feel? European Tour 2011 and this It was big, to get my very first win in America was pretty special and to do it in my first year will see all four major year was great. So now at least I don’t have to winners from 2010 fighting worry about winning in the US. I’ve done it it out on the fairways of and now I can relax a little more when I play over there. the Abu Dhabi Golf Club. We’re backing the 21-yearYou came third in Abu Dhabi in 2010. How do you fancy your chances in 2011? old world number 11 Rory It’s a golf course that suits my game and McIlroy and world number I always enjoy playing in Abu Dhabi. I’ve finished fifth and third in previous years and one Lee Westwood to the year before that 11th, so I’ve played pretty challenge for the title well here in the past. It’s a strong field and it’s a great place to go at the start of the year to practice and really work on your game. It’s very competitive with the best players in the world there. So, yes, really looking forward to it.
What do you think of the Abu Dhabi course? It’s brilliant. One of the best courses in the Gulf and one of the best we play on the tour. Everyone goes there and really enjoys it. You seem to like the UAE – you do well here. Any chance we’ll see you moving here soon, like a few of your European Tour colleagues? No, not really. I’m in this country quite a lot, so it really is a home from home and I have great connections, but I enjoy my time with family and friends back in Northern Ireland. I do love coming to Abu Dhabi though – they look after us really well and put on a great show, so it’s always nice to come back. 16 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Lee Westwood is a friend of yours, right? Did you help him celebrate becoming world number one? Yes, I did actually. He found out on the Monday and we were flying out to China on the same day, so I had a couple of glasses of champagne with him on the flight. When do you plan on replacing Lee as world number one? As soon as possible. The world number one slot has become a lot more attainable and I can see it changing hands again in the coming months. Hopefully, if I’m playing well enough, I will have a chance of being number one pretty soon.
WORLD NUMBER ONE
LEE WESTWOOD
You reached number one in the world rankings a few months ago. What did it mean to you? When you’re growing up, when people ask ‘What do you want to achieve?’ – everyone says that they want to be the best in the world. Now I could show those people, ‘look, I’m the best in the world, the best on the planet’. It has to be the most satisfying moment in my career. It was like a dream. And yet in 2003 you had slumped to world No.266. Could you see a way back? When you are at rock bottom, you don’t enjoy it at all. You just have to break down your game and rebuild it from the base. That’s what I tried to do. It was the combination of a lot of things and, perhaps most importantly, you have to get it right in your mind before you can move on. So many people want to help you, so many people want to give you information and it’s difficult at times to know who to listen to. My dad has always given me good advice and he knows how hard I’ve worked to get back. You took top spot from Tiger Woods. Did that surprise you? When Tiger was in his pomp, he was so much better than anyone else. I suppose that number one seemed unattainable. But people go through different things in their life and form comes and goes, it can dip. I’m one of the best examples of that, I was 266th. But perhaps I then began to see that it was more attainable. I’d like to think that it was confirmation that I was doing everything right. Did Tiger congratulate you? How do you get on with him? No, at the time, I didn’t hear from Tiger. But I have a great relationship with him. We’ve always got on well, on the golf course and off it. There’s always a bit of banter flying about. I give him a bit of stick and he gives a bit back. There is a great mutual respect between us. I really like those kinds of rivalries. And I wouldn’t ever write Tiger off. He has proved time and time again that he can come back.
Being number one has a nice ring to it? Absolutely. It’s a great honour and a big responsibility. I’m only the second Englishman to top the rankings, the first since Nick Faldo in 1994. It’s a fairly large achievement. I joined an elite list, an exclusive category. It can’t be anything else but positive and, if I need it, it can give me that extra edge. But, no, I don’t feel that it adds any extra pressure. There’s enough pressure as it is. Critics point to the fact that you have yet to win a major? Does that irk you? Winning majors is something that you learn to do. You get yourself in position as often as possible and you learn from things you could have maybe done a little bit better. I’m at an age now [37] where I’ve been through most things, so the next time I get in there and have a chance I’ll know what to do. Getting to number one is not about winning Major Championships. It’s about consistency. A lot of people seem to get confused about that. JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 17
GETTY IMAGES /ISTOCK
Golf
ABU DHABI GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP
The big guns
LF CLUB
ABU DHABI GO
AFP/GRAPHEAST
Meet the four Major Championship winners from the 2010 season set to do battle in Abu Dhabi this month
MARTIN KAYMER
LOUIS OOSTHUIZEN
PHIL MICKLESON
GRAEME MCDOWELL
When he won the US PGA Championship in 2010 Kaymer became only the second German golfer, after Teutonic golfing great Bernhard Langer, to win a major tournament. Add to that his world number three ranking and the fact that he ended an impressive European Tour season winning the Race To Dubai last November and it would be hard not to peg Kaymer as favourite to triumph at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship for the second year running.
This year saw the talented South African and world number 25 win both his first Major Championship title at The Open Championship at Scotland’s famous St Andrews and bag his first European Tour victory at the Open de Andalucía de Golf. Not bad, not bad at all. He will definitely be looking to challenge the other Major winners for the title in Abu Dhabi.
What can we say about big Phil Mickleson? The game’s most famous lefty won his fourth Major at the Augusta National this year and sitting firmly at number four in the world rankings, the 40-year-old Californian is always a threat.
The Northern Irishman missed out on victory in The Race To Dubai in November to none other than Martin Kaymer, so he’s sure to be looking for revenge at Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Being a vital member of Europe’s 2010 Ryder Cup winning team and securing his first Major at the US Open at Pebble Beach – the first European to do so in 40 years – will mean his confidence is high.
18 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Jan 20 to 23, Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, day ticket Dhs125, season ticket Dhs400. Tel: (04) 2108567. www. abudhabihsbcgolfchampionship. com
Mamma Mia! Filini, contemporary Italian bar and restaurant serves authentic Italian food. Smart and modern setting, an open-terrace and friendly service. Italian Chef Thomas Marchi blends exceptional ingredients with traditional cooking methods to conjure an almost 100% Italian experience!
You’ll find Filini at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island Yas Plaza, Yas Island, P.O. Box 93725, Abu Dhabi, UAE info.abudhabi@radissonblu.com Tel: +971 2 656 2000 radissonblu.com/hotel-abudhabi
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Time to cast off the shackles of 2010 and start afresh. Whatever your resolution, we’ll keep you on track with some expert advice
Travel more
The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes. That was Marcel Proust, who was right, THE EXPERT Open Skies’ up to a point. There are, Conor Purcell however, landscapes so breathtakingly beautiful that your current eyes will do just fine. Happily, many of these places are within a few hours flight of the UAE, so you have no excuse not to begin your own voyage of discovery.
DJIBOUTI
Africa’s North East coast is spectacular – pristine beaches, world-class diving and amazing food. Tourists are thin on the ground so prices are cheap and you can enjoy the sights in peace. Chief among these is the awesome Lake Assal, the lowest point in Africa and a bright white salt flat ringed by black volcanic rock. Close by is Lake Ghoubert, home to the youngest volcano in the world, near rock so hot you can boil water on it. This is Africa’s Ground Zero, jagged, raw and thrilling. Flydubai flies to Djibouti from Dhs2,200
ILLUSTRATIONS: LINDA COULTER
If you’re looking for adventure in 2011, Open Skies editor Conor Purcell says you should buy your ticket, pack your bags and take off to one of these alternative destinations
SEOUL
Less hectic than Tokyo and cooler than Beijing, the South Korean capital is about as good as an Asian megalopolis gets. Its recent embrace of design (everything from bus stops to office buildings are being created with aesthetics in mind) has tied into a burgeoning arts and culture scene. Add an amazing array of food, great hiking, wonderful temples, reasonable prices and a world-class transport system and Seoul should be on everyone’s Asian ‘to-do list’. Emirates flies to Seoul daily from Dhs4,500
THE PANJSHIR VALLEY
Yes, it’s in Afghanistan and yes, it’s safe – not to mention beautiful. The Panjshir rises from the Shomali Plain and continues more than 100km north before morphing into the Hindu Kush. The valley offers white water rafting, swimming and trekking along its
banks. The locals are welcoming and there are one or two restaurants by the water’s edge where you can gorge on mutton and naan alongside ageing Mujahideen fighters. Flydubai flies to Kabul daily from Dhs650. From Kabul book a driver and a guide through Afghan Logistics for the three-hour drive north to Panshir. www.afghanlogisticstours.com
ALEPPO
Forget Beirut, Aleppo in Syria has faded charm in spades, without the tacky renovation that has seen central Beirut turn into an outdoor shopping mall. Aleppo has always been an important trading stop, attracting everyone from Theodore Roosevelt and Kemal Ataturk to Agatha Christie and T.E. Lawrence. They all stayed at Hotel Baron, now slightly shabby but still full of character. Many of Aleppo’s souqs are covered and a Friday morning stroll through the deserted tunnels, the smell of fresh bread in the air, is a magical experience. Flydubai flies to Aleppo from Dhs900 JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 21
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Take up a challenge Three ways to challenge yourself in 2011
SURVIVOR CHALLENGE
SEVEN EMIRATES CYCLE
We’ve already completed the Survivor Challenge and we’ve just signed up to do it again. That’s how good it is. For three months, three times a week former ice skating champ Alena Pask directed her early morning shout at us, emitting such motivational gems as "milk is for babies!" and "the weights aren’t heavy, you guys are!". And it worked. We lost 5kg and would have lost more if we weren’t so slack. The sessions combine boxing, kickboxing, strength training and circuits with prizes throughout the programme and a nutritional regime, essential gear and regular weigh-ins are included. KO Gym, Dream Tower, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun, Tue and Thurs 6am, ladies only 8am, Dhs2,300. Tel: (050) 2861673. www.kopromotions-dubai.com
Why travel abroad to challenge yourself? Climbing Kilimanjaro is so 2010 (in fact we ran a feature on it). Sign up to the Gulf For Good cycle challenge and you will be able to raise money for charity, see the whole of the UAE from the saddle and meet a rather challenging challenge. You have to be in pretty good shape to go the distance from Al Ain across endless tarmac, bumpy mountain tracks and desolate desert paths to Dubai, but you have plenty of time to turn yourself into the next Lance Armstrong and G4G will provide you with a training schedule, equipment advice and fund-raising ideas. Nov 27 to Dec 2, Gulf For Good, Dhs2,200, minimum sponsorship Dhs12,000. Tel: (04) 3680222. www.gulf4good.org
WADI BIH RUN
Although various members of the What’s On team are going to be running both the Dubai Marathon and the RAK Half Marathon in the first two months of 2011 (some are running both), we’re still tempted by the Wadi Bih run. We’re just that keen. But what fool wouldn’t want to camp on the beach at Dibba before waking extremely early and running up Wadi Khab Shamsi. Sign up with a team of five and run about 15km each or, if you’re stark raving bonkers, run the full 72km on your own. Registration closes January 25. Feb 11, Golden Tulip Hotel, Dibba, from 4am, Dhs150. www.wadibih.com
Meet new people In a town more transient than Heathrow airport, your social group will inevitably swell and wane; some weeks are a festival of fun, while others are barren of banter. If you’re going through something of a friendship dry spell, or are just a bit sick of your mates, then take some action with our pick of the UAE’s best social groups DUPLAYS Meet fellow sporty sorts at DUPLAYS, which organises leagues for everything from bowling to ultimate Frisbee. www.duplays.com WWW.MEETUP.COM Wowsers. Organised by city, this mammoth website allows you to set up and join groups, as well as contribute to a calendar for your city. The topics are diverse, ranging from the cultural (such as 22 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Dubai Indie Film Group) to the downright bizarre (see The Carpet Appreciation Meet Up Group – sorry lads). www.meetup.com WWW.SOCIALCIRCLESUAE.COM With over 5,000 member and plenty of
events, this is a good one if you’re new in town. The forums are friendly and you can join (very) special interest groups, such as Social Fire Circles, which meets up to practice playing with fire. Other groups just like to go out for a nice dinner. www.socialcirclesuae.com
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Give up smoking Our resident social smoker braves hypnotherapy in an attempt to kick the ciggies
THE VERDICT
I was keen, both to try something I hadn’t tried before and, of course, to quit the ciggies, but I have to admit I was nervous the morning before my session. I didn’t like the Put your hand up idea of losing control. But let me bust one (the one without myth right from the off – hypnotherapy will the cigarette in not leave you in a zombie state in thrall to it) if you enjoy a your therapist. And you will not be made to crafty smoke or 20 bark like a dog. If I was, I could have said no. on a night out or “It’s like that state you’re in in the morning, after dinner and when you’re not asleep but you’re not quite a few glasses of awake,” explained Eileen during our presomething pleasant treatment chat. It was, indeed, just like that. from Argentina. I was asked why I wanted to give up social H I’m imagining smoking and how much on a scale of one to T E GAR hundreds of digits ten. Then Eileen explained the purpose of the S E E R reaching for the hypnotherapy and how it would rid me of my clear blue desert skies little problem. right now, and one of them is mine. To put it simply, the reason I was a social I’ve been promising to quit ‘social smoking’ smoker is that I associated smoking cigarettes for some time. Probably about three years. with having a good time and feeling relaxed, I’ve tried will power, but when it comes to because when I smoked I was with friends this little problem it seems my will is not that and in a positive state of mind. The purpose powerful. Now it’s time to take drastic action. of the hypnotherapy was to break that I’m running a marathon this month. connection – to condition my subconscious So, despite my fear of being made to mind not to associate smoking with having a quack like a duck or something worse, good time, but rather see it as the disgusting I called up Synergy Medical Centre’s habit it truly is. personal development trainer and certified Next time I go out for a drink with my hypnotherapist Eileen Meehan and asked for friends, I simply won’t want to smoke, an appointment. according to Eileen. There are various professionals at Synergy So what exactly went down in that small that can help with this particular problem. room at the Synergy Medical Centre? Martine Nates, for example, employs Well, after our initial conversation, I sat in acupuncture techniques to help you quit and a reclining chair (all a little bit Freud, but of Dr Parviz Rashvand a computer programme course it would be), put my feet up and closed called QXCI to reduce cravings, which may my eyes while I was covered with a blanket well appeal to the more scientifically minded. to protect me from the A/C. You have to feel But I’ve always fancied being hypnotised so I completely comfortable. went for that. First I was asked to imagine a ball of energy First things first, though. This is not magic. travelling through me and relaxing my whole You have to be prepared to work with your body, from head to toe. Then came the time therapist to achieve the result you’re hoping line therapy. Essentially travelling back into for. your past and telling your younger self not “The most important thing is that you do to take up smoking, then into the future to want to quit as we can’t influence anyone see yourself in a situation where you would to do anything that they don’t want to do,” usually smoke, not smoking. warned Meehan. I don’t want to give the whole game away, The good news is that if you do really want because it’s quite an individual experience. to give up smoking, it should take just one or But you should ‘wake up’ full of energy and two sessions to do the job. in a positive frame of mind. Did it work? So I confirmed that I did indeed want to quit far so good; I’ve been smoke-free ever since. and went off to write a list of reasons why Synergy Medical Centre, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, Dhs500. before our session. Tel: (04) 3485452. www.synergyctrdubai.com
THREE OTHER WAYS TO RID YOURSELF OF THAT FILTHY HABIT NICOTINE GUM AND PATCHES
If you’re going to use the force to quit, it’s best to have a trusty lightsaber on hand to help you beat your Darth Vader. For the quitter, nicotine gum and patches are your versions of Luke Skywalker’s mighty whooshing weapon. Super-Care Pharmacy, Dubai Mall, gum Dhs15, patches Dhs76. Tel: (04) 4341687. www.thedubaimall.com
CHAMPIX
This non-nicotine tablet is the trendy quitter’s method of choice at the moment. The hipster’s method reduces cravings and makes the whole process a lot more comfortable, apparently. Super-Care Pharmacy, Dubai Mall, Dhs198. Tel: (04) 4341687. www.thedubaimall.com
ACUPUNCTURE
Dubai Herbal And Treatment Centre provides a consultation with a doctor (Dhs300) and tailor acupuncture sessions to help you quit smoking. One session will set you back Dhs200 or you can wage a full on assault on your habit with a package of five sessions for Dhs750. Dubai Herbal And Treatment Centre, Dubai, Dhs500 to Dhs1,050. Tel: (04) 3351200. www.dubaihtc.com
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 23
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Sort your finances We spoke to an expert at Mashreq bank for a five-step programme to staying in control of your finances
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LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS, PLAN METICULOUSLY AND PRIORITISE PURCHASES Your living standards should be defined by your income; it’s as simple as that. Grab a notebook, scribble down your income and your outgoings and set out how much you can save for investments and the balance is what the experts call your ‘comfort corpus’ and what we call your fun fund.
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LIMIT THE NUMBER OF CREDIT CARDS YOU HAVE, MAKE PAYMENTS BY THE PAYMENT DUE DATE, KNOW THE INTEREST RATES AND DON’T EXCEED 80 PER CENT OF YOUR CREDIT LIMIT It’s hard to keep track of multiple payment dates and missing payments will cost you money and lower your credit score. Choose one card and cancel the others. And don’t let anyone persuade you signing up to a new card is a good idea.
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PAY BILLS ONLINE If you set up automatic payments online you will never be charged for late payment. You will also avoid processing fees.
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KEEP ALL THE PAPERWORK You should hold onto all of your statements for two or three years. It will make it easier to manage your expenses and act as a useful reference should any discrepancies arise.
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KNOW YOUR CONSUMER RIGHTS You can find out all about this online at www.consumerrights.ae and if you have any trouble with your bank, you can contact UAE Central Bank Control and Inspection. UAE Central Bank Control and Inspection. Tel: (04) 3939777
24 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
INVEST YOUR SAVINGS
INVEST IN PROPERTY
Martin De Waal, head of investment advisory at Emirates NBD Asset Management, answers a few FAQs about investing your hard earned cash
Before you start searching for the perfect investment property check out these price comparisons
What’s the minimum amount we need to start investing? For monthly contributions Dhs1,800 is a good start. Regular savings tend to be affordable and easily accommodated within your overall budget. What is diversifying your portfolio? Diversification is the process by which an investor distributes his or her investible wealth across different asset classes [eg cash, bonds and stocks] in order to reduce risk and improve the quality of returns by providing more stable, less volatile long-term returns. We hear investing in gold is a good idea right now? If concerns about the health of the global economy remain high, then gold should continue to perform well. However, a strengthening global economy could lead to significant falls as investors rotate out of this safe haven asset. We believe that the price of gold is no longer attractive at these levels and the downside risk is quite high. What should we invest in for 2011? Income generating assets should provide some support for investors in 2011 so our focus would be on high yielding corporate bonds and high dividend paying stocks.
One-bedroom apartment Dubai Marina September 2010 Dhs1,137,105 December 2010 Dhs1,080,626
START AN ART COLLECTION Follow managing director of Dubai’s Meem Gallery, art historian and collector Charles Pockock’s beginner’s guide to art investment I genuinely believe that people should buy art because they love it. That’s the most important thing of all. You need to go to a number of advisers. Make sure they have a good, clean reputation in the market and access to a reference library. There are problems in the region relating to provenance. Is the work original? It’s important to focus so you become an expert in your own field. If you are collecting, you should specialise. To understand the art of today you need to have knowledge of the art of yesterday. Remember that. It’s vital. If you’ve got Dhs5,000, go and buy lithographs – limited editions prints. They won’t appreciate as quickly in value as original works of art, but we have Mona Saudi prints, one of the great modern sculptresses of the Arab world, for Dhs3,500. Go with recognised artists. Is the work held in a major international museum? Is the work published in independent, recognised journals and books? What books have been written about the artist? Get a collective of three or five or ten friends together, put in $10,000 each, buy the work collectively then flip it in three or five years and share the profit. This works. If you want to get involved as an investment, this is the best way. www.meem.ae
One-bedroom apartment Downtown Dubai September 2010 Dhs2,047,353 December 2010 Dhs1,628,291 Studio apartment International City September 2010 Dhs281,726 December 2010 Dhs243,947 One-bedroom Motor City September 2010 Dhs681,264 December 2010 Dhs645,768 Three-bedroom villa The Springs September 2010 Dhs2,174,462 December 2010 1,974,350 Statistics provided by www.propertyfinder.ae
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Get fit Join one of our three favourite classes and sweat in good company
KINETIC ZOO
Billed as the anti-boot camp, KZ is run by our very own Mr Fitness James Houghton and What’s On marathon guru Chris Miller. The lads promise that the group fitness programmes will change once a month (so you won’t get bored), boost metabolism, increase strength and generally make you feel better. The sessions are just 45 minutes and you will be provided with fat burning meal plans and recipes, recovery and regeneration strategies and a weekly body fat analysis. These guys don’t mess about. From Jan 2, Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Al Maktoum Sports Hall, Street 25A, off Al Wasl Road, Dubai, Sun, Tue and Thurs 6.15am to 7am, Dhs800 per month. Tel: (050) 4762704. www. theantibootcamp.weebly.com
TRX
Ever fancied becoming a Navy Seal? OK, pretending to be a Navy Seal? Well TRX was created by one of those sea-going hard men who wanted a way to train at any time, wherever he happened to be. We’ve tried it. It’s a strange, springy contraption that can be used to work out any part of your body, anywhere, any time. Or, at one of The Aviation Club’s three weekly sessions. The Aviation Club, Garhoud, Dubai, Sun, Mon and Wed from 6.15pm, Dhs50 per session. Tel: (04) 2833071. www.aviationclub.ae
CONTENDER MMA
Mixed martial arts (MMA) is the in thing at the moment, probably due to those angry chaps ripping chunks off each other on the TV in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The Contender Mixed Martial Arts Training Centre in Dubai offers you the opportunity to unleash your mean streak in a controlled environment. Pay a one off Dhs100 joining fee and you can enjoy MMA, Muay Thai and boxing sessions for just Dhs80. Contender Mixed Martial Arts Training Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, joining fee Dhs100, Dhs80 per session. Tel: (04) 3469990. www. contendermma.com
Detox
It’s the classic resolution. Cut back on your bar bill, give your liver a rest, have the tin of Quality Street wrenched from your clammy grasp and get healthy. Frankly, we can’t be trusted to do it alone, so here are a few programmes to kick-start 2011 the right way
THE ULTIMATE WELLNESS RETREAT
In order to break out of your couch potato routine, a change of scene will help. The Ultimate Wellness Retreat includes six days and five nights at Bab al Shams desert resort, then a final night at Meydan racecourse hotel. Your stay will include full board (with nutritious food, of course), health assessment, use of the pool and spa facilities, group fitness sessions, daily personal training, yoga, tai chi and meditation, private mentoring, inspirational talks, cookery classes, activities including archery, horse riding and falconry, plus star gazing and astrology. This week of wellness aims to see you shed 3 to 5kg and introduces you to health and fitness experts from PTX who will tailor your programme based on the results of your assessment, giving you the know-how to carry on with good diet and regular exercise once you leave the hotel. From Dhs9,000 per person (based on two people sharing a double room). Tel: (056) 7894026. ultimatewellness@ptxdubai.com
THAI DETOX
The lazy option, this one-hour treatment involves massage and warm herb and mineral compressions to relax and detox muscles. Much more enjoyable than drinking wheatgrass, and more comfortable than colonic irrigation. Biolite Skin Clinic, Healthcare City, Oud Metha, Dubai, Dhs250. Tel: (04) 2096802
ELECTRO-DERMAL SCREENING
It sounds complicated, but this simple test is one of the most accurate ways of finding out which foods you’re intolerant to. Your skin’s electrical activity is used as a marker for how your body responds to external stimulation, and after a pain-free hour you will have a list of what you should avoid. The Dubai Mall Medical Centre, Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs550. Tel: (04) 4495111
RECIPE Avocado Iced Tea by Jimmy at Zuma Gently detoxifies the liver, with natural sugar for an energy lift Ingredients Half an avocado One lemon 20ml of organic agave syrup Green tea Method Start by steeping the green tea in hot water, making sure to leave it for no more then 30 seconds to avoid a bitter taste. Once infused, allow it to cool down.
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t Peel the avocado, then place it into a mixer glass - ‘muddle’ it with a wooden spoon (do not blend as you want to keep the thick consistency of the avocado).
t Add the juice of a freshly pressed lemon, then the cooled green tea and the agave syrup.
t Shake with ice cubes, then pour into a long glass.
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 25
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Move house
Learn…
We know moving house in this part of the world can be a giant headache (deposits, connections, movers, lost Allen keys…) but for a new lease of life in the UAE, it could be just what you need. And prices are looking good. Here’s the best bargains and latest trends in property for 2011
SERVICED APARTMENTS
JUMEIRAH LAKE TOWERS
They’re furnished, you pay rent monthly, short and long-term contracts are available, bills are usually included, and you get a maid service thrown in. What’s not to like? In the past, it was the price, with one-bed hotel and serviced apartments nearly double the cost of regular one-bed accommodation. With a glut of them on the market, landlords have got realistic and you can live in luxury without a billionaire’s bank balance.
Many of us swapped a few letters last year and relocated from JBR to JLT. However, the next few months are set to see this area blossom (while prices are staying low) with the Metro now open, more shops and hotels on the horizon, and hopefully the ‘lake’ in Jumeirah Lake Towers being sorted. You can pick up a studio for around Dhs40,000, a furnished one-bed for Dhs60,000 and a two-bed for around Dhs75,000.
Our pick: Furnished one-bed in The Greens, 800sqft, Dhs8,000 per month
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Our pick: Furnished one-bed in Indigo Tower, 792sqft, Dhs60,000
HIGH-END NEIGHBOURHOODS
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
Viewings in areas that have previously been perceived as out of most people’s price range are set to soar in 2011. The end of last year saw Old Town and Palm Jumeirah jump in popularity, with people biding their time to get the bargains. While Dubai Marina was the big daddy of 2010, renters are now looking for buildings with high quality finish and the cache of living in iconic areas, be it at the base of Burj Khalifa (and in the building itself) or on the Palm.
We all claim to be here to save money, but how’s that working out for you? Ah. Thought so. If you’re really serious about tightening your belt, then moving to cheaper accommodation will have a massive impact on your bank balance. International City will remain popular next year (where you can get a studio for less than Dhs22,000), as will Discovery Gardens, but the buzz in 2011 will be about Al Quoz. Yup, the land of labour camps and art galleries is getting residential.
Our picks: One-bed in 8 Boulevard Walk, Old Town, 938sqft, Dhs65,000 per year One-bed in Royal Oceanic, Palm Jumeirah, 800sqft Dhs55,000 per year
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26 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
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Our pick: One-bed in Al Khail Gate, 650sqft, Dhs28,000 including DEWA
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A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
Remember that guitar that sat in the corner of your teenage bedroom until you left home? Those dreams of becoming the next Jimmy Page? Well, it’s never too late and Abu Dhabi’s AKM Music Centre offers guitar, piano, drum and bass lessons. After eight, 45-minute sessions and you’ll be caressing that axe like Hendrix. AKM Music Centre, Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi, Dhs400. Tel: (02) 6219929. www.akmmusic.net
A LANGUAGE
Parlez-vous Français? Well you should. And there’s no better place to learn than Dubai’s Alliance Française. There are various courses on offer throughout the year from beginner to intermediate. The first course in 2011 starts January 8, with further courses starting in March, May and June. From Jan 8, Alliance Française, Bur Dubai and Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, Dhs1,500. Tel: (04) 3358712. www.afdubai.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Gulf Photo Plus offers all manner of photography workshops, but if you’re just starting out visit their website and sign up to Digital Photography – Level 1. Courses start in Abu Dhabi January 7 and Dubai January 14, but they run regularly throughout the year. From Jan 7, Gulf Photo Plus, various locations Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Dhs730. www.gulfphotoplus.com
ACTING
If you’ve always fancied yourself as an actor, sign up to The Desert Monologues course and test your mettle. The workshops deal with scripts, improvisation and characterisation and at the end of the course you will be given the chance to record your monologues in a studio with professional sound, lighting, make-up and costume. From Feb 10, Drama Workshops Dubai, DUCTAC, Mall of the Emirates and The Fridge, Al Quoz, Dhs1,500 to Dhs2,000. Tel: (050) 9861761
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Improve your image If you open your wardrobe each morning with a sinking feeling, then a bit of expert advice might be in order. La Vie en Mode helps you chuck out those clothes you should have given up years ago, assists on buying key items, sources tricky to find pieces and offers personal styling.The beauty and brains behind the operation Sonia Sheikh shares her top tips for sorting out your image
THREE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR EVERY WOMAN’S WARDROBE BLAZER The beauty of this item is that it does a tango between the masculine and feminine, the formal and the casual, the preppy and the trendy, the smart and the sexy. Buy it oversized or unconstructed to maximise its fashion value.
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LBD There is the classic LBD, and then there is the avant-garde black dress. Own one of both. The first should be a body-hugging Audrey Hepburn sheath style, and the second should be crafted of something utterly unexpected like lace, corduroy, beaded chiffon or leather.
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STILETTOS This shoe combines the emotions of euphoria, admiration, panic and justifiable credit card debt. You can never have enough. The right pair will help define the curvature of your leg, offer height, confidence and sass. THREE MUST-HAVES FOR MEN TAILORED SUIT NAVY OR GREY Even if you only need a suit a couple of times a year, you’ll be glad to have it on hand when those occasions arise. Navy or grey suits are classic and neutral and can be dressed up or down. You can wear the jacket with jeans for a more casual look, so this is an item worth spending some money on.
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THREE TIPS FOR REVAMPING YOUR EXISTING WARDROBE Reorganise your closet so you can literally see it differently and therefore pair items together like never before. Reverse-engineer your organisation method: if it was by colour, consider organising by type of article; if it was by type of article, consider organising by casual versus glam.
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Develop new ways to wear old items. Use long pearl strands as belts, wear an anklelength skirt as a belted strapless dress, tuck flare pants into boots to create a parachute look... Let your creative juices flow.
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Let go of your fashion fears. Pair items that you may not have combined before, like denim shorts with tights and purples with greens. If it feels daring, go for it.
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WHITE DRESS SHIRT The quintessential white shirt can be worn a number of ways and goes with everything. Well worth the investment of having it tailored to your size.
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A TIE COLLECTION WHICH REFLECTS YOUR PERSONALITY From Hermès to H&M, bold colours to paisleys, wide to skinny (think Don Draper in Mad Men), you can make this item the staple in your wardrobe and something that people will associate only with you. La Vie en Mode, Dubai, wardrobe revamping Dhs200 per hour (minimum of two hours). Tel: (056) 6916950. E-mail: stylist@vieenmode.com
Be charitable What can you spare?
AN HOUR
Riding for the Disabled are always looking for volunteers to help with sessions. You don’t need any experience with horses (although it helps if you’re confident around them) as volunteers simply lead the horse or walk beside it, offering assistance to the students. There are morning sessions at 9am and 10am and afternoon sessions at 4pm and 5pm on various days through the week. www.rdad.ae
FOOD
Helping Hands regularly puts together care packages for labour camp workers so next time you do your weekly shop, pick up the following; Thai, Jasmin or Biriyani rice, canned fish, tea bags, 1kg of sugar, Nido milk, tomato paste, noodles, cans of lentils, sunflower cooking oil and a packet of sweet biscuits. Tel: (050) 5671434. www.helpinghandsuae.com
JUNK
Well, maybe not total junk, but if you have furniture or electrical goods that are no longer wanted, then Take My Junk will collect and redistribute to those who need it. Tel: (050) 1794045. info@takemyjunkuae.com
BOOKS
Get yourself, and assorted possessions (books, toys, DVDs and clothes in good condition), to the Holy Trinity Thrift Store where they are sold for a good cause. Holy Trinity Church Compound, Oud Metha, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3374947
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 27
FILM Black Swan
How Do You Know
The Fighter
Black Swan
How Do You Know
Paul
WHO?
Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel, Barbara Hershey, Winona Ryder, Darren Aronofsky (director)
Jack Nicholson, Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, Mark Linn-Baker, James L Brooks (writer-director)
Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Seth Rogen, Greg Mottola (director)
TAGLINE
‘From the director of The Wrestler’
‘A new comedy from writerdirector James L Brooks’
‘Prepare to meet Paul’
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Top ballerina Nina Sayers (Portman) found herself in line for the lead role in a production of Swan Lake. But fellow dancer Lily (Kunis) also has her eye on the prominent dual part of the Black and White Swans.
Former athlete Lisa Jorgenson (Witherspoon) became one corner of a love triangle when she fell for both ageing corporate type Charles (Nicholson) and top baseball player Matty (Wilson).
Sci-fi convention nerds Graeme and Clive (Pegg and Frost) run into a real genuine extraterrestrial (essayed by Knocked Up’s Rogen).
IDEAL IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD TO...
Watch a superb celebration of dance that’s also a sublimely twisted psychological thriller.
Remember what a good romantic-comedy looks like.
Watch the new Morecambe and Wise strut their wonderful stuff.
WATCH THIS IF YOU LIKE...
Previous Darren Aronofsky films like the awesome drug drama Requiem For a Dream and The Wrestler, aka the movie that restored Mickey Rourke to high estate.
As Good As It Gets, a film whose similarity to How Do You Know might have something to do with it also being written and directed by James L Brooks.
Shaun Of The Dead, Hot Fuzz and Spaced, the ace Pegg/Frost sit-com that could been created with guys like Graeme and Clive in mind.
TOP TRIVIA
It took a decade to knock the Black Swan screenplay into shape.
If being an Oscar-winning filmmaker wasn’t impressive enough, James L Brooks also helped create The Simpsons.
Keen to get the part of Paul the alien down, Seth Rogen consulted the prince of performance capture Andy Serkis, who played Gollum in the Lord Of The Rings films and the great ape in King Kong.
WHAT’S ON TEN WORD REVIEW
The film of 2011 might have already arrived.
It’s nothing new, but it’s hard to fault the execution.
Can our favourite Brits succeed in alien territory?
RATE OR SLATE?
★★★★★
★★★★✩
PREVIEW
28 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
FILM | NEW RELEASES The Green Hornet
The Mechanic
The Fighter
The Green Hornet
The Mechanic
My Soul To Take
Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Melissa Leo, Frank Renzulli, David O Russell (director)
Seth Rogen, Cameron Diaz, Edward Furlong, Christoph Waltz, Jay Chou, Michel Gondry (director)
Jason Statham, Donald Sutherland, Ben Foster, Mini Anden, Tony Goldwyn, Simon West (director)
Max Thieriot, John Magaro, Denzel Whitaker, Zena Grey, Nick Lashaway, Wes Craven (writerdirector)
‘A new film from the director of Three Kings’
‘Can’t you feel the buzz?’
‘Someone has to fix the problems’
‘Only one has the power to save their souls’
‘Irish’ Micky Ward (Wahlberg) found himself transformed from journeyman to world title contender by his half-brother Dicky Eklund (Bale).
Suave newspaper publisher Britt Reid (Rogen) decided that writing about crime wasn’t enough. His plan? To tackle the problem head on ‘neath the guise of The Green Hornet.
Veteran assassin Arthur Bishop (Statham) decided that the best way to get back at the men who killed his boss Harry McKenna (Sutherland) was to train up his mentor’s son Steve (Foster).
Serial killer The Riverton Ripper returned from the dead to murder seven teens born the night he died.
See a corking sports movie whose improbable storyline is that much more remarkable for being true.
See a superhero movie that’s in no danger of taking itself too seriously.
Spend a couple of hours finding out whether Jason Statham measures up to Charles Bronson, star of the original Mechanic.
Watch a once great horror director destroy the legacy of his greatest creation, the sweaterwearing, talon-twirling Freddy Krueger Esquire.
Priceless pugilism pictures such as Raging Bull. And if you enjoyed David O Russell’s Gulf War comedy Three Kings, you’ll long to go 12 rounds with The Fighter.
The Iron Man pictures, since they’re also films in which the hero is unlikely to collapse under the weight of his own worthiness.
Previous Statham slugfests such as the Transporter and Crank pictures.
Poor slashathons such as I Know What You Did Last Summer.
Boxing fans should keep an eye out for cameos from Sugar Ray Leonard, Roy Jones Jr and George Foreman.
Jay Chou, who plays Reid’s partner Cato, is a hugely popular singer in his native Taiwan.
The Mechanic is based on that rarest of things, a Michael Winner film that’s actually quite entertaining.
Rogue Pictures sought to promote My Soul To Take by orchestrating a fake stabbing at the film’s premiere. Amazingly, no one lost their job over this tasteless fiasco.
The Fighter is Mark Wahlberg’s best movie since Boogie Nights.
The action’s hum-drum, but the jokes have some sting.
Could The Mechanic secure Statham’s position on the action A-list?
Here’s hoping Wes Craven has an encounter with Mr Krueger.
★★★★✩
★★★✩✩
PREVIEW
★✩✩✩✩ JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 29
EATING OUT When it comes to what we put in our stomachs we at What’s On don’t do new year resolutions, especially when we’re eating out. We deserve to treat ourselves after securing an exclusive interview with Jamie Oliver (p12), after all. So in this, our first Eating Out of 2011, we have changed not a sausage. We ate a lot of dessert at multi-Michelin starred chef Yannick Alléno’s new French restaurant Stay By Yannick Alléno (p32), devoured plate after plate of meat heavy Middle Eastern grub at round the clock restaurant Zaroob (p34) and visited Souk Al Bahar’s wonderful Farmers’ Market (p36). Plus The Critic on the foodie trends he’d like to see in 2011 (p38) and what we thought of the burger at BoHouse (p39). Happy new year to you all. And remember, if seconds are offered, always accept.
ZAROOB
Gareth Rees, Features Editor
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 31
EATING OUT
On the menu
Stay by Yannick Alléno
A trio of tasty morsels to fill your new year belly THE STEAKS AREN’T HIGH Few things warm the cockles like a carvery. A traditionally English feast, forget the roadside restaurants so sadly associated with the meaty meal and have lunch at The Exchange Grill, where you can pile your plate with wagyu beef rump or the daily special (roast lamb, chicken, tuna or salmon), carved at your table. You’ll also get a house salad and your choice of garlic mashed potato or jalapeno creamed corn, all for Dhs99. And if you go on Sunday or Monday, it’s buy one carvery get one free. The Exchange Grill, The Fairmont, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Tel: (04) 3118316 WINE FOR DHS39 We love Terra Firma, but it has completely stolen our hearts with this grape-soaked offer. Visit this top-notch steakhouse for a two-course meal during January and February and you can add free flowing red or white wine for an extra Dhs39. Yup, you read that right, less than Dhs40 for unlimited vino. Until end of Feb, Terra Firma, Al Badia Golf Club, Festival City, Dubai, Sun to Tue 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 7011127 FELIZ CUMPLEAÑOS SEVILLE’S! To celebrate its tenth birthday, Seville’s isn’t just having a cake – it’s sharing the love with you guys. Throughout January the lovely Latinos are offering selected Torres wines for Dhs10 per glass, Spanish beers for Dhs10 and a selection of tapas priced at Dhs10. Do you see a pattern yet? Even better, everyone who dines there this month could win a trip to Spain. Seville’s, Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily from noon to 1am on Sat, Sun and Mon and 2am on Tue, Wed, Thurs and Fri. Tel: (04) 3244777 32 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno brings another French restaurant to Dubai. But can it compete? There are already a lot of French restaurants in Dubai. Good ones at that. So one would think that opening yet another Gallic culinary emporium to do battle with the likes of Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire, Traiteur and What’s On favourite La Petite Maison would be a prospect to daunt even the most self assured chef. Add to that the fact that Stay by Yannick Alléno, or rather the lavish new One&Only hotel it calls home, sits a good 15 minute drive down the trunk and around the West Crescent of The Palm and you begin to see how the odds were stacked against the multi-Michelin starred chef from the get-go. But that’s just it; Yannick Alléno is no run of the mill onion chopper. Chef at Le Maurice, the Parisian restaurant awarded its third Michelin star in 2007, he is one of the most touted talents in The City of Light. And he doesn’t do things by halves. Alléno has had a hand in all three of the One&Only’s restaurants. Zest serves up Middle Eastern fare, 101 is a more relaxed Mediterranean affair, while Stay
– the only one of the three that carries the Frenchman’s name – is his pièce de résistance. The interior is certainly impressive. Done out in black and white with silver chairs and purple velvet booths decked with cushions and boasting a ‘pastry library’ – Stay’s speciality – it rivals Pierre Gagnaire’s Reflets in the fancy pants stakes. But does the food measure up? And is it worth travelling to the farthest reaches of The Palm for? Well, it all started off nicely with a delicate eel and potato salad consisting of a handful of diced beetroot, several pieces of potato and too few cubes of the deliciously smoked fish. Smoked eel is one of the most delectable flavours known to man, you have to agree – and this was drizzled with a beetroot mousse, which was more of a thin sauce, really. The ‘modern riviera salad’ was a traditional salade Niçoise presented slightly differently or brought up to date, depending on your perspective, by sitting the ingredients on three halves of crunchy gem lettuce rather than the customary bed. Otherwise all
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the usual suspects were present – ripe cherry tomatoes, olives, potatoes, green beans, hard-boiled egg and canned tuna (seared loin would have given it an edge). Mains, we have to say, were a little disappointing. A roasted duck breast cooked rare wasn’t bad by any stretch of the imagination, yet it lacked that silky richness that characterises the best of birds. But endives soaked in an orange sauce gave it a little extra zing. Then there was the Dublin Bay prawn ravioli that sounded so promising. The pasta was cooked to perfection, but there wasn’t a trace of lemon in the lemon butter sauce and as a result the dish tasted solely of butter. Simply too rich. Thankfully a jolly sommelier, friendly waiter and dessert, or rather desserts, saved the day. You can visit the pastry library and see your meal’s finale being prepared. We just sat back until presented with a yard of the finest looking puddings we’ve seen in a long while. They’re only Dhs45 each and the best of them were a meringue snowball filled with cold fruit sorbet, a sweet quince confit tart, a Pims (a giant Jaffa Cake) and a mille feuille boasting beautifully brittle pastry. Worth the trip alone. Stay. Should you go? Yes.
Need to know Location: One&Only, The Palm, Dubai Tel: (04) 4401010 Web: www.thepalm. oneandonlyresorts.com Open: Tue to Sun 7pm to 11pm Cuisine type: French Must eat: smoked eel and potato salad Bill for two: Dhs600 (without alcohol)
In tweet form… Dubai’s newest French restaurant just about competes with the big boys offering some of the best desserts in the UAE. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi
EATING OUT
A taste of things to come
Zaroob
Hotter than a sizzling plate of fajitas, here’s our pick of this month’s new openings
We can imagine the boardroom meetings when a new hotel arrives here. “We want an Asian restaurant.” “Yes sir, we’ll put some bamboo up and maybe some Chinese characters on the wall”. “Very good, I’d also like an English pub.” “No problem sir, some dark wood, stained glass and old signage coming right up”. In a land where so much of our dining out takes place in almost always five-star hotels, when an independent spot opens it is worth a visit. We went to Zaroob with two pals on a ten-hour stopover in Dubai (“Just show us around, there’s nothing we particularly want to see”. Awesome…) who had never sampled Arabic food before and one admitted that meat feast pizzas had been a staple for the last two years. Tough crowd. Luckily, upon entering we were collectively wowed by the décor – vast walls covered in graffiti murals, raw wood shelving, gorgeous fabrics and an impressive open kitchen with various ovens roaring. There’s dining upstairs, a casual bar set-up on the ground floor and a nice little spot on the pavement nestled between skyscrapers, which is where we headed. Torn between wanting to show the newbies some old faithfuls (lemon mint and cheese saj) and exploring the extensive Levant menu, we ordered far too much from the bandana’d waiter and watched as platter after platter arrived. Hummous and haloumi obviously made an appearance, with the show stolen by man’oushe flatbread with lamb, herbs and freshly squeezed lemon, which was initially ordered to keep the meat feast lover happy. Falafel with tahini, cheese saj, meat shawarma with pomegranate molasses, paper-thin pastry filled with cream cheese and honey, foul with ‘add your own tomato, red onion and spring onions’, saj with nutella and
KABABS & KURRIES We love kebabs. We love curries. We’re not fans of bad spelling, but will put that aside in favour of a plateful of spicy goodness. Adding to the vast array of outlets in The Souk at Abu Dhabi’s Central Market development, this place will fuel your shopping or tempt you out of the house for an Indian feast. The Souk, Central Market, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6282522 BURGERFUEL New Zealand favourite Burgerfuel will be opening a mammoth 15 restaurants in the UAE, adding to its outlet on The Walk at JBR. Serving grass-fed, meat burgers, malt shakes and signature ‘spud fries’ this chain has clearly got its sights set on overtaking Fat Burger for our affections. We’ll let you know how it gets on. Burger Fuel, The Walk, JBR, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4458220. www.burgerfuel.com SUGAR DADDY’S Thought the cupcake craze was on the way out? Wrong. If anything, 2011 will see the diabetic’s enemy further covering the UAE in candycoloured frosting. The latest is Sugar Daddy’s stall in Iconic, the awesome concept store in Deira City Centre. Buy some jeans, pick up some homewares, have lunch at Wild Ginger and a take cupcake home. Sugar Daddy’s, Iconic, Deira City Centre, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3448202
34 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
A stylish new star on Sheikh Zayed Road
caramelised bananas, all bursting with freshness and enthusiasm, and each dish impressing more than the last. It’s fair to say the outof-towners were stunned. After being a little, well, gung-ho with the ordering we were braced for a stonking great bill. Not so. A mere Dhs5 for five falafel, Dhs6 for shawarma, Dhs16 for a plateful of salty grilled haloumi, and that lamb man’oushe for Dhs16. In fact, the most expensive item on the menu was the Zaroob cocktail (Dhs39), which we were recommended as ‘both a drink and a dessert’, an explosion of avocado, strawberry and mango juice topped with the entire Spinneys fruit section that succeeded in terrifying our guests as they tentatively picked grapes from it while exchanging fearful glances. Don’t get us wrong, the food is knockout, the prices superb and
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service winning, but what charmed our socks off was Zaroob’s style. Simply unlike anywhere else in the UAE, its blend of regional inspiration, touches like the metal buckets for bathroom sinks and casual flair means this bijou restaurant shines like a little beacon of hope for other independents from the base of yet another anonymous skyscraper. Oh, and it will be open 24 hours soon. Those five-stars better look out.
Need to know Location: Jumeira Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Tel: (04) 3276060 Open: daily 6am to 4am Cuisine: Levant Must eat: Kofta man’oushe Bill for three: Dhs180
In tweet form… One of the most unique restaurants to open for ages. Arrive hungry and prepare to leave Zaroob a loyal fan. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi
EATING OUT
Market day The Baker & Spice UAE Farmers’ Market at Souk Al Bahar is back, offering local, seasonal produce from farms across the Emirates. We spent a morning sniffing fresh basil while, Yael Mejia, the woman behind the market told us why it’s madness not to eat local Why did you start the Farmers’ Market? Two years of sitting here and crying over the stuff people were eating. Watching what the supermarkets were selling made me realise that people place no value on produce that is grown here in the UAE. A farmer selling his produce like this is an old way of life that needs to be brought back to remind people where their food comes from. It doesn’t grow in plastic on a supermarket shelf. Why do you think that is? Urban societies are so removed from food and where it comes
36 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Yael Majia at her stall
Going shopping with Rivington Grill's Liz Stephenson
from that they’ve forgotten when it grows. So they’re happily buying plums in the supermarket that are six months old at the moment and the apples are a year old. People don’t know that so the supermarkets can do what they want. People just aren’t thinking about these things? The Internet is there. Information is there. How can you not think about something you are forced to do three times a day? But some people don’t, and supermarkets are the result. Simple as that. People have ceded responsibility for their health and their daily bread to global business with an innocence
and complete abandon and those global businesses have then gone on to abuse it. So why should people be eating local? For their health, for the flavour. The produce at the Farmers’ Market gets picked at the right moment because the journey from field to plate is reduced by a factor of 1,000. So nothing has to be picked unripe then go through picking, packing, storing, shipping; 3,000 hands with everyone wanting a cut. It leaves more money in your pocket. Isn’t that a good reason? It’s good for the environment. Isn’t that a good reason? Do you have to eat
strawberries that come here on an aeroplane? No. Is it possible to eat regional all year round? You could only eat regional produce, yes. An area called The Fertile Crescent, just north of here, is where agriculture began. Local, no. The season runs from December to April or May and that’s it. Then it all dies down. But then the rest of the region starts producing. So India, Iran, Afghanistan, Lebanon and Syria all burst into bloom. And right now? The winter season is wonderful. Now everything is available. The rest of the time I buy from Oman,
EATING OUT
Time to cook Rivington Grill head pastry chef Liz Stevenson shows us what to do with our fresh, seasonal ingredients
WHAT’S ON'S SHOPPING BASKET L Two Two tomatoes (Abu Dhabi
Organics, Dhs2)
L Bunch of chives (Abu
Dhabi Organics, Dhs10)
L Six eggs (Abu Dhabi
Organics, Dhs10) Mixed peppers (Abu Dhabi Organics, Dhs30) Purple spinach (Abu Dhabi Organics, Dhs9) Granola (Baker & Spice, Dhs18) Laban (Abu Dhabi Organics, Dhs20) Award-winning honey (Abu Dhabi Organics, Dhs100) L Box of dried dates (Abu Dhabi Organics, Dhs20) L L L L L
OMELETTE INGREDIENTS One tbsp olive oil, four eggs, one tomato, three or four chives, salt and pepper
wonderful agriculture there. I buy from India, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. Why do I have to buy from the USA and Australia? And how should regular consumers shop? People should go to markets instead of shopping clinically. In the Deira fruit and veg market you’ll find regional food. Carrefour does a lot of regional stuff. The French love their food and these guys have done their homework. And read the labels. Simple. Fridays, UAE Farmers’ Market, next to Baker & Spice, Souk Al Bahar, Dubai, 10am to 5pm. Tel: (04) 4252240. www.bakerandspiceme.com
METHOD Blanch the tomato in boiling water for 30 seconds and submerge in ice water. Peel off the skin, quarter, remove the seeds and dice into small pieces. Chop the chives and set aside. Break the eggs into a bowl and season with the salt and pepper. Do not over mix the eggs, as this will be done in the pan. Heat a small saucepan over a medium heat with the olive oil. Add the eggs and mix with a fork, moving quickly. Allow the base to set slightly and place the tomatoes and chives on top. Fold half of the omelette on top of itself and continue to cook until the centre is just set (not runny, but nice and loose).
purple spinach, 30g goats’ cheese, cut into small cubes, pinch of sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. METHOD Slice the peppers in half and remove the seeds and inner white flesh. Cut into large cubes. Place in a bowl with the basil. Tear the basil, rather than chop it, as this will spare the leaves from bruising. Wilt the spinach in a steamer, microwave, or on top of a small cooling rack placed over a pan of boiling water. Remove from heat, cool and place in the salad. Add the goats’ cheese and drizzle with olive oil. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
GRANOLA INGREDIENTS 100g (one cup) of granola, 150g (just over a cup) of laban, one tbsp honey, 20 to 30g (four to five pieces) chopped dried dates METHOD Place the granola in the base of a bowl, pour the laban over top and drizzle with honey. Add the chopped dates.
SALAD INGREDIENTS 150g mixed peppers (red, yellow, green, purple or orange), five leaves of torn fresh basil, 20 to 30gm JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 37
THE CRITIC
James Brennan knows food. Having written on everything from bhajis to burgers for a string of international publications, James is now the Middle East chairman of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants judging panel. Don’t miss his monthly musings every issue. A year ends and another begins, and the restaurant world girds its metaphorical loins for another 12 months of grub. It wouldn’t be an act of clairvoyance to predict what chefs and restaurateurs have got in store for us this year. But here are five food trends that I’d like to see in 2011.
1
The abolition of culinary foam
Yes, yes, we all know that it’s used to bolster the flavour of a dish without bulking it up with thick sauces and heavy reductions, but does it have to be used on every plate? Foam may have been developed by molecular genius Ferran Adria, but he’s been copied for far too 38 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
long by seemingly every two-bit chef from Jumeirah to Jakarta. It’s no longer innovative or impressive. Besides, it looks vile. At best it’s like the scum left on a beach after a chemical spillage; at worst it looks like something hocked up by a Jebel Ali docker. Let’s call it a day, shall we?
I want them to wait on me, not chat me up, sit on my lap and then spoon-feed me. Wire them up to some kind of electric shock equipment and give me a button. As soon as they come too close, or ask me if I’m enjoying my meal the second I place a huge forkful of steak into my mouth, zap! A few well-placed volts should put things right.
5
Lay off the hammour
It’s overfished and overused, so isn’t it about time some high-profile restaurants gave the poor hammour a bit of a breather? Make it your new year’s resolution not to eat hammour for at least 12 months, and perhaps they’ll get the message. Go easy on the Knowing my luck, the new tuiles craze for 2011 will be Peruvian In case you don’t know More local hammour in culinary foam ingredients them by name, tuiles are wafers, with a nougatine tuile wedged Sounds so simple, doesn’t which these days appear to up its backside, delivered by a adorn every single dessert on the it? But something odd is going psychopathically over-familiar face of the planet. I have nothing on with locally grown ingredients waiter, but you can always hope. from the estimated 40,000 against them in theory, but they farmers in the UAE. Most of are often badly executed and totally superfluous. Biscuit tuiles, their produce is exported, while the majority of the food we eat when used appropriately, I can is imported. I understand that tolerate. But all too frequently I some items can’t be grown here, find sticky, stodgy tuiles made from sugar or nougatine, sticking but until we start promoting and respecting the locally grown stuff out of a scoop of perfectly good we’ll have a carbon footprint like ice cream, like a flap of peeled Sasquatch in moon boots. paint that’s fallen off a damp ceiling. And if I really want to clog my teeth up with gunk, I’ll chew on a tube of superglue. Thanks.
2
3
4
The correction of overly attentive waiters
They perform a vital service, but
“IT’S LIKE THE SCUM LEFT ON A BEACH AFTER A CHEMICAL SPILLAGE; AT WORST IT LOOKS LIKE SOMETHING HOCKED UP BY A JEBEL ALI DOCKER”
BoHouse A surprisingly good late opening restaurant with an arty streak There are a few decent places to grab a bite to eat on The Walk, but even if there weren’t, every café, burger joint and coffee house would still be overrun with hungry punters. The kilometre-long stretch running roughly from Le Royal Méridien hotel to the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort backs on to JBR; prime real estate for those living the Dubai dream. The Walk is where you go for a twilight stroll, pre-beach breakfast or a convenient evening nibble. So why, with a few notable exceptions such as The Butcher Shop and Grill and, at a push, Pizza Express, is it so difficult to find good food outside of the hotels? We don’t have the answer, unfortunately, but we have found another establishment to add to that short list of notable exceptions. BoHouse looks like a trendy contemporary art gallery on the inside – very white, lots of shiny plastic – but you should take a table on the sizeable outdoor terrace, despite the regrettable view of the beach car park. Of the two appetisers we enjoyed, the shrimp cakes were the real surprise. Light and springy and not at all rubbery as they often can be. The veggie quesadilla weren’t bad either – a nice sharing plate. We made a terrific mess with the sloppy beef burger (a multi napkin job), but served with onions and tomatoes, it was a fair crack at the classic Yank sarnie and came with some fine French fries. From the salads menu we chose the intriguing breaded calamari on fattoush, which was precisely as promised –
crispy deep fried squid rings atop a decent rendering of the ubiquitous Lebanese salad. We washed it all down with what was perhaps the best strawberry shake in Dubai – real strawberries and thick icecream – and finished things off with a shared blueberry cheesecake constructed of delightfully cheesy cream cheese and an unfortunate sponge base in place of the traditional biscuity bottom.
Need to know Location: The Walk, Dubai Marina, Dubai Tel: (04) 4298655 Web: www.bohousecafe. com Open: Sun to Thurs 8am to 12.30am, Fri and Sat 8am to 1am Cuisine type: various Must eat: shrimp cakes Bill for two: Dhs280 JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 39
ARTS
Puck-er Up This month, UK drama group Shakespeare 4 Kids returns to Dubai with its acclaimed production of one of the Bard’s best-loved comedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Leading man Noel Andrew Harron tells us more
40 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
If you like this... Another of Shakespeare’s comedies gets a Dubai makeover next month. Much Ado About Nothing is one of the Bard’s bestloved plays. A tale of romance, deception and, ultimately, the triumph of love, sweet love, this performance by homegrown not-for-profit theatre troupe Dubai Drama Group, promises to be one of the highlights of February’s arts calendar. Feb 10 to 12, Kilachand Studio Theatre, Ductac, Mall of the Emirates, Sheik Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3414777. www.ductac.org
ISTOCK
You’re playing Puck, the court jester to the king and queen of the fairies who gets up to lots of mischief… He’s a green hobgoblin in our production – green, glittery and a little bit manic. I play him like he’s having fun and gets confused quite easily. He runs about the stage and makes a mess, but all in all he’s having fun while doing it. Shakespeare wrote Puck as an extreme character. Because he’s a supernatural being there’s no set way of playing him, and because I am a physical, comic actor, I play on the manic, crazy side of him. Do you still use Shakespeare’s text or adapt to more modern English? I would say that it’s about 50:50. We colloquialise quite a bit of it – it’s keeping to the story, but adapting the language so the children understand. We try and make our productions as accessible as possible, to appeal to the kids. We try to go to their level and talk to them, not talk at them. Shakespeare’s generally seen as being quite adult – what’s the appeal for kids? I think he is appealing to everyone. He talks about love, death, he’s got all these things that appeal to people of any age or any nationality. It’s just brilliant storytelling. Even though the language can be difficult, we try to update it so they want to go and investigate it more. People may think we’re dumbing down the Bard, but we’re not, we’re just trying to give a sample of it so they’ll want to investigate it themselves. Do you make any other adjustments to appeal to a younger audience? I think everyone in the cast brings their own stamp to their characters. There are also special effects and contemporary references. What, like a touch of Lady GaGa? Yeah, pretty much! Myself and Bottom [the character Puck turns into a half-donkey in the play], we do go off on a tangent sometimes.
ARTS
Future perfect Progress on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island’s cultural district continues apace with the unveiling of award-winning architect Lord Norman Foster’s design for the Zayed National Museum. Built to showcase the life and achievements of the UAE’s founding president Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nayhan and the history of the UAE, the sweeping design (five pavilions rising up to 124 metres above the Arabian Gulf ) is intended to represent the feathers of a falcon’s wing. Promising to be a model of sustainable development, the museum is due for completion in 2014, and it will form the centrepiece of the Saadiyat Island development, alongside the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. www.tdic.ae
Millennium falcon National Day inspires us all in different ways, but for Lebanese designer Pierre Abboud it was the source of an idea to create The Falcon’s Nest, the sculpture recently erected in Downtown Burj Khalifa. Standing seven metres high and up to 24 metres in length, the white wooden structure is designed to represent the great power of the "multicultural force" that is the modern UAE.
With Puck, it’s more like he’s a pantomime comic who’s very appealing to the kids. It does sound a bit like panto… Maybe a bit – just to alleviate some of the stress of Shakespeare. Engaging the audience with stuff they’ll recognise and know makes it that little bit more interesting for them. We’re cheating in a way, because in between all the fun it’s like, ‘By the way kids, this is Shakespeare.’ We get an amazing response from the audience – it’s not just children, adults really like the show. It’s fun, it’s hysterical in bits. All in all you’re there to enjoy yourself – it’s a comedy at the end of the day. Jan 10 to 13, Centrepoint Theatre, Ductac, Mall of the Emirates, Sheik Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 3414777. www.ductac.org
Word up Pecha Kucha, the interactive multimedia forum that invites individuals and groups from the creative worlds to show off their projects and ideas prepares for its ninth outing on January 19 at Dubai’s The Third Line gallery. As ever, participants must stick to PK’s 20x20 rule (20 slides discussed for only 20 seconds each), giving each speaker just over six and a half minutes to get their message across. Concise and to the point – just the way we like it. www.thethirdlinegallery.com
Five minutes with... Kais Salman Syrian painter Kais Salman is the focus of a solo show at Ayyam Gallery DIFC
The show’s called Material World. What does the title say about your work? Like it or not we all live in a world that is becoming more and more materialistic. I consider myself a spiritual person, but at the same time I dream of buying an Audi. I dream of living in a big house with a 1,000sqm studio. It is this contradiction between spirituality and materialism that is inside me every day that I am trying to portray. How does your background impact upon your work? I think Eastern cultures in general are living a debate between older, more spiritual lives and new Western ideas. As an artist living in Syria, I am also torn between the East and West and I think that is portrayed in my art. Your painting is attracting worldwide recognition – how does that impact upon you as an artist? It makes me spend more time in my studio and worry more about each piece I produce. Your work is often called provocative – do you see it that way? I think my work could be shocking and provocative, but I hope in a funny, satirical and positive way. Describe your current artistic direction in three words... Enjoyable, funny, satirical. Until Jan 15, Ayyam Gallery DIFC, Gate Village, Building 3, DIFC, off Zebeel Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4392395 JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 41
ARTS
Five to see
ÅANCESTRAL SPACE TRANSLATED IDENTITY
The second of Mojo’s compelling four-exhibition series dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and the Diaspora this exhibition focuses on artists who draw from both their traditions and modern art to stake a new claim on representations of modern Africa. Fascinating stuff from a part of the world – and the UAE’s cultural mix – that has until now been woefully underrepresented. Jan, Mojo Gallery, Unit 33, Al Serkal Avenue, Street 8, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3477388. www.themojogallery.com
ÑRESIDUA
ÅTHE BRIGHT SIDE OF THE BONES
With its apparent emphasis on human remains, this solo show by emerging Emirati artist Maisoon Al Saleh might at first glance appear macabre, but is in fact a study into life – how our bodies carry our stories, culturally, historically and personally. Her vision is not fully realised yet, perhaps, but this show marks her as one to watch. Jan 18 to Feb 2, Gallery of Light, Ductac, Mall of the Emirates, Sheik Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3414777. www.ductac.org
The second in a series of revolving exhibitions at this impressive new Sharjah gallery, Residua features pieces from the private collection of Barjeel founder Sultan Sooud alQassemi. It throws a spotlight on work from both established and rising stars of the UAE and Middle Eastern art scene, including Youssef Nabil and Jeffar Khaldi. Until Feb, Barjeel Art Foundation, Al Maraya Centre, Sharjah. Tel: (06) 5566555. www. barjeelartfoundation.com
ÉRSTW
Last chance to catch this impressive round-up of mid-20th century American greats, including Ed Ruscha, Cy Twombly and UAE favourite Andy Warhol, brought together from the private collection of one the leading gallerists of our time, Larry Gagosian. Yet another taste of things to come at Abu Dhabi’s soon-to-be cultural hub. Until Jan 24, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6435781. www.artsabudhabi.ae 42 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
ÅEDUCATING THE HORSE
Art and politics meet in Nicky Nodjoumi’s first solo show in the UAE. Slightly surreal, apparently incongruous imagery of encounters between (a well-dressed) man and beast form the metaphor for the Iranian artist’s musings on the relationship between East and West in layered references to situations and events drawn from the daily news. Until Jan 14, Gallery IVDE, Al Serkal Avenue, Street 8, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3235052. www.ivde.net
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Behind the Bard
His plays have been translated into every living language and are performed more than any other playwright in history – it’s probably fair to say that William ‘the Bard’ Shakespeare needs little introduction. But as profound and prolific as he was (about 38 plays and four times as many sonnets alone), the man himself remains steeped in intrigue and mystery. It’s agreed that he was born in Stratford-upon-Avon in the UK in 1564, where he married Anne Hathaway aged 18, before heading to London as one of the King’s Players theatre troupe and finding fame. The idea that the man who, by the 18th century had widely come to be known as the greatest playwright of all time, could have come from such humble origins, however, has lead to countless claims over the years that Shakespeare was a front for another writer (or writers). In a series of plot twists worthy of the great man himself, English writers from Francis Bacon to Christopher Marlow have all been mooted as the 'real' Shakespeare over the years. These days, however, such considerations generally rest alongside man never walking on the moon in the dustbin of conspiracy theories and it’s generally believed that, give or take a few possible early collaborations, his writing was his and his alone. Either way, the work lives on – and that’s entirely as it should be.
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’S BESTD L R O W E TH ADGET SELLING GE IS NOW... MAGAZIN
E N I L ON JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 43
SHOPPING
This month we’re buying…
Stylish laptops Why shouldn’t accessorising extend to our technology? BlackBerrys and iPhones have their own little rubber and knitted outfits, but laptops are taking it that step further with HP collaborating with snow sports brand Rossignol to create the his and hers HP Pavilion DV6 Rossignol editions, complete with graffiti-style graphics on the casing (and matching skis). Sony Vaio has always lead the PC pack with its ‘lifestyle’ approach, and the new super-light (and super-expensive) P-Series with its eight-inch screen is the latest addition to the colourful family, while Acer’s Aspire One Happy comes in sickly sweet tones (one for the girls) and merrily juggles both Android and Windows 7. So which one should you get? The one that matches your T-shirt, of course.
HP Pavilion DV6 Rossignol editions, price TBC
Sony Vaio P-series, from Dhs4,850
Shambler says...
THE EXPERT
Stuff magazine’s Thomas Shambler
The Acer is my pick of the bunch. It’s slim, it’s portable, but more importantly, it dual-boots Windows and Google’s Android operating system and gives you the best of both. So there’s Windows for desktop-like productivity plus Android for onthe-go mobile smarts and for squeezing extra juice out of the battery. 44 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Acer Aspire One Happy, from Dhs1,400
Sophia says...
Got a fashion question for Sophia? E-mail editor-wo@motivate.ae
We drag the oh-so stylish Sophia Triantafillou away from the helm at Emirates Woman into the grubby What’s On office to answer your wardrobe woes
My daughter hates the way I dress – she says I dress too young for my age. I am nearing 50 and think I look great. Do I have to stop wearing mini skirts and vest tops? Margaret, Dubai Marina. Yes and yes. Mini skirts should be forbidden, just like any short shorts, over the knee boots and off the shoulder tops. Not even Donna Karan gets away with it. I am sure you do look great, but there is a time when you have to give these items to charity and start purchasing new, age appropriate pieces. You can still show off your body and be sexy, it’s just a matter of choosing the right items and remembering less (flesh) is more. Swap the mini for just above the knee length and get a great white shirt that can look superb with a skirt for work or jeans on the weekend. Leave anything of the mini variety to younger ladies. Skirt by Camilla and Marc at Valleydez
What’s your advice for winter dressing in the UAE? I’m fed up with the lack styles in Dubai for men’s clothes, which seem better suited to boys, not men. Francois, Downtown Dubai. This is a cry I hear from many men in the UAE. You all seem to be fine with suits, as we
have some of the best tailors in the world on our doorstep, but when it comes to casual wear it all seems a little too tight and bright. The only way to approach this is to trawl the malls. The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates have some of the larger department stores, so you’ll find greater variety there. Avoid the high street – a lot of these stores do catwalk knock offs and the result isn’t pretty.
My friends have told me that I don’t dress well. I have loads of clothes in my wardrobe, but problems arise when I have to put them together – especially at the weekend. Paul, Sharjah. Think classics. For example, it’s just not possible to go wrong with blue jeans and a polo. If you have a night on the town planned, go for jeans, shirt and a jacket – it's foolproof. Just don’t go too crazy on patterns or bright colours, as I imagine this is where you are going wrong. Keep away from trainers by night and opt for a loafer (muted tone) or dress shoe instead.
Top by H&M
Shoes by Hermès JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 45
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MIND & BODY
Zayna Spa
NEW OPENING
Instant Tightening Serum
Don’t believe the hype and shell out your dirhams until you’ve read this. No jargon, just the truth
ED TEST
The capital’s latest – and largest – health club and spa opens its doors
placed on key body parts, along the spine and in the palms of the hands to relax muscles so the therapist can bust deep knots without using excessive pressure. The warmth is obviously comforting, but is also known to Abu Dhabi at rush hour. A hastily printed map help with problems such as back pain and in hand, which soon ends up under the brake insomnia. A nice bonus. pedal. Fairly choice language being muttered. Following a footbath, our therapist dimmed Then, a breakthrough. A sign. Literally. To Al the lights and set to work on some seriously Wadha Complex. The spa almost in sight… stressed shoulders. The hour flew by, as each A new hotel opening brings good and bad – limb was warmed and manipulated into a state the lure of somewhere exciting, maybe a fresh of slumber, leaving only our racing mind to folfavourite, offset by the possibility that it’s not low sleepy suit. Not sure what they put in basalt the greatest thing since sliced manakish and a stones these days, but it could knock out a horse. total pain in the proverbial to find. So would the It was with a deep sigh that we hopped back Grand Millennium’s new spa (at the largest health into the car and returned to the traffic, but the club in the city, no less) live up to the hype? after-effects of the massage managed to keep Far from the stuffy business hotel with the temper in check all the way home. A true token spa that we feared, Zayna Spa is big and test of a spa treatment in the capital. beautiful, with ten treatment rooms, relaxaZayna Spa, Grand Millennium Al Wadha, Hazza tion areas, steam, sauna, rainforest showers Bin Zayed Street, Al Wahda Complex, Abu and Jacuzzi. It also smells fantastic. Odd Dhabi, Dhs440. Tel: (02) 4439999. observation, but go with it. www.millenniumhotels.com After being greeted with a cool towel and cold juice, it was time for some hot stones. Despite “The hour flew being one of the staples of any self-respecting spa menu, the hot stone massage is still a bit of by, as each limb a mystery to us. Could you get the same effect was warmed and with a handful of gravel and a hot water bottle? After some research at home, apparently not. manipulated into Hot stone massage uses smooth, flat basalt a state of slumber” rocks (known for retaining heat), which are
WHY? Drink plenty of water, get eight hours sleep, blah blah blah... The festive season was a heavy one, so it’s time to pull out the big guns to sort out our knackered skin. THEY SAY? The Instant Tightening Serum by Clinicans Complex uses high-tech chemicals, 'superior bimodal polymer' and elastin molecules for a 'face-lift effect', to reduce lines and wrinkles in seconds. WE SAY? Instant tightening indeed. We looked like we’d stepped into a wind tunnel and it made our skin feel unnaturally tight. It wore off pretty quickly though. You wouldn’t want to use this every day, but for emergencies and a pre-party fix it could be a good addition to your beauty kit. Dhs250. www.clinicanscomplex.com ALSO RECOMMENDED: Guerlain Midnight Secret, Dhs330 from Debenhams JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 47
His‘n’hers
MIND & BODY
Our guy and gal hit the Talise Spa at Emirates Towers to test the luxury pampering
Hers
His
FLOATATION POOL
LOMI LOMI HAWAIIAN MASSAGE
TALK US THROUGH IT Though this massage sounds Hawaiian, what exactly makes it Hawaiian, I don’t know. No wreath of flowers, no pineapple and no outrageous shirts. But, designed to reduce stress and improve ‘circulation of energy’, 55 minutes of Lomi Lomi did just that. THE BEST BIT? The spa has its own floor and is more intimate than most. On a Thursday afternoon I had the changing room to myself. ANY AWKWARD MOMENTS? Nothing during the treatment, but with six lifts to choose from on the way out, judging which one had stopped was not an easy task. It was like trying to whack the mole at the fairground. HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE PANTS? Big, roomy boxer shorts. The only choice for the modern gentleman. SLEEP FACTOR? I’m pretty sure this massage was designed specifically to provoke sleep. I was out after five minutes, even though I’d declined the sleep inducing lavender oil. WHO SHOULD GET INVOLVED? Tired, overworked and stressed folk looking for somewhere to
escape for a few hours. Or even just have a nap. HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG? Dhs415 for 55 minutes. So not cheap, not cheap at all.
TALK US THROUGH IT Very simple indeed. You can book a quiet, private room with a small, shallow pool for between 15 minutes and an hour. Filled with Epsom salts to make you float, the weightlessness helps your body to truly rest and recover, promising the equivalent of eight hour’s sleep. THE BEST BIT? You’re faced with an hour of no interruptions which felt a little daunting, but instead of the minutes dragging I was able to do some serious thinking and a little snoozing, leaving very well rested. ANY AWKWARD MOMENTS? None at all, apart from overcoming the weirdness of bobbing around with a neck pillow in a giant bath at Emirates Towers.
HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE PANTS? Scant, but surplus to requirement anyway. Shout out to the lovely fluffy pink dressing gown though. SLEEP FACTOR? Some might struggle to switch off and nap, but the floating, inflatable pillow and earplugs should send most people to Bedfordshire. WHO SHOULD GET INVOLVED? Jet-lagged or stressed execs and those needing some genuine quiet time. I couldn’t remember the last time I had the chance to relax alone without distractions. Thoroughly recommended. HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG? Dhs330 for an hour. Talise Spa, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, 9am to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3198181. www.jumeirah.com JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 49
MIND & BODY
At home
spas Forget the magical spell of post-massage bliss being broken by rush hour, a new wave of spas are bringing their expertise to you N Style
This popular nail salon has added at-home services to its already lengthy list of reasons to love it. Famed for its clients watching Friends while they get their nails done at its many salons, you can now enjoy its charms from the comfort of your own armchair. It’s not that we’re lazy but… well, we are, actually. When the price is the same, you don’t need to worry about parking, can order pizza and watch Moment Of Truth (don’t judge) you know this will revolutionise your beauty regimen. How about waking up after a particularly bubbly brunch and ordering a Thai massage with your DialA-Whopper to sort you out? We tried the Soho pedicure (Dhs190) which includes soak, scrub and masque to leave you with the feet of a giant newborn and a back, neck and shoulder massage (Dhs65 for 30 minutes). With three therapists for two of us, the evening passed in a speedy blur of nail polish and mumblings of ‘we should do this again’ as another knot was massaged into submission. The ‘at-office’ service is appealing too, but a lunchtime reflexology session might
Who else will indulge you with some pampering at your pad? Chez Toi Kick-start your day with an express facial or get ready to relax with a hot stone massage. Chez Toi has a minimum spend of Dhs120 and caters to all-female gatherings like baby showers and birthday parties, with monthly offers and competitions on the website. Chez Toi, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3397117. www.cheztoibeauty.com 50 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
mean we’ll have to start drawing up plans for that George Costanza-style under-desk bed. N Style. Tel: (04) 3401564. services@nstyleintl.com
Azur Spa
Smile Dubai Express Fear the dentist? What if the dentist came to you? While we might be a few years off at-home root canal work (shudder), if you want teeth whitening from your couch then read on. Smile Dubai Express specialises in teeth whitening parties (they also have a doctor who can administer Botox, too), so you can either host a night of your own, or go along to one of their gatherings where you can meet like-minded people with similarly gleaming gnashers. Smile Dubai Express, Dubai, Dhs1,500 for teeth whitening including after-care kit. Tel: (050) 8967781
The doorbell rang and two smartly dressed therapists, armed with enough luggage for a trip round the world, quickly filled the flat. In lightning speed a massage bed had popped up behind the sofa and a nail station appeared. Candles were lit, turquoise towels draped and the mood was transformed from cooking and MTV-watching chaos to a little sanctuary on a Monday night. Azur’s ‘spa on wheelz’ service – so good we’re willing to overlook that z – is one of the few companies that offer at-home treatments to both men and women, so is great for a night in with the other half. Once the, frankly bizarre, concept of being on a massage bed in your living room had been overcome, we couldn’t have been happier and opted for a neck and shoulder massage (Dhs70), pedicure (Dhs60) and reflexology (Dhs45) each, followed by dinner. Wild times. It was such a treat to sit in pj bottoms getting a foot rub without having to get back in the car after a spa sesh. But the big surprise was actually the quality of the treatments – therapists Aileen and Grace were charming, efficient and superb at their jobs, leaving baby soft skin and knot-free muscles in their wake. Azur’s staff can turn their hands to all manner of treatments, from eyelash extensions, spray tan and an up-do before a party to waxing, threading and Korean cupping (it the kind of things you might not look your best after), and the prices are really reasonable. You need never leave the house again… Azur spa on wheelz, Dubai. Minimum spend Dhs300. Tel: (04) 4475284. www.azurspa.com
WIN!
MIND & BODY
The New Year Resolution special at Senso
If you like the sound of Senso's January pamper package then read on. We have two spa visits to give away and for your chance to win, simply visit www.winwithmotivate.com and answer this question: Senso is in which hotel? a) Radisson NAVY b) Radisson BLU c) Radisson RED
Spa news The best beauty bargains and news this month
NEW OPENING LA CONTOUR SPA This new spa is offering their VelaSmooth Pro slimming treatments at a discounted rate throughout January to get your weight-loss campaign off to strong start. Using radio frequencies, infrared and deep tissue manipulation, this technique shifts fat deposits and smoothes skin. Sign up for eight sessions this month and you’ll pay Dhs4,480 instead of Dhs6,400. La Contour Spa, Tiffany Tower, JLT, Dubai, Dhs4,480. Tel: (04) 4473626. CLUB OLYMPUS A family day out doesn’t have to involve food courts and mall mania. This month the spa at Hyatt Regency Dubai is offering a package that includes a 60-minute aromatherapy massage for the parents, while up to three children have swimming lessons. Club Olympus, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Dhs600 per family. Tel: (04) 2091234
SENSO WELLNESS CENTRE Start the year off feeling good and looking great with the two and half hour New Year’s Resolution package from Senso. You’ll get a full body massage of your choice, Anne Semonin facial to sort out any peaky cheeks, then either a manicure or pedicure. Senso Wellness Centre, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City, Dhs550. Tel: (04) 3669111 AMARA SPA Our favourite spot for a pamper session, Amara is offering a discounted price on the Total Relaxation package for January, reduced from Dhs958 per person to Dhs810. The ritual begins with a hand and foot rose petal bath, you’re then treated to a 75-minute Ideal Carita facial and 45 minutes of reflexology. Lunch from the poolside menu is included. Amara Spa, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Dhs810. Tel: (04) 6021660
THE HEALTH CLUB Anti-ageing is the aim of the game at the Sheraton this month, with a package to help turn back the clock and undo the damage done at Christmas parties (well, they’ll try their best – but some of you pushed your luck). The facial takes 75 minutes and uses Vivrecel products to promote cell regeneration for lifted, plump skin and freshness around the eyes. The Health Club, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, Dhs390. Tel: (02) 6773333 THAI PRIVILEGE SPA Enjoy five and a half hours of luxury at TPS this month for Dhs2,100 including a healthy lunch from the spa menu. Your day will be packed with traditional Thai spa rituals and hand-picked herbal products to custom-design the most relaxing time possible. Thai Privilege Spa, 1074 Uttamah Villas, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, Dhs2,100. Tel: (04) 3489679 52 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
TIPS & TOES Bargains aplenty in the January sales at Tips & Toes. This month you’ll receive 20 per cent off massage treatments, enjoy a full body massage for Dhs160 instead of Dhs200 or when you book a mani-pedi add on a 20-minute head, neck and shoulder massage for Dhs56. Tips & Toes, Dubai. www. tipsntoeshaven
SPORT & OUTDOOR
Run with us! The Dubai Marathon is here. So this, our penultimate Run with us! column, is dedicated to you brave souls joining us as we set out on our 41.84km journey to the finish line and the glory we have been striving for over these long and arduous months. It’s time, fellow runners, to face our destinies. But first, a final few tips from our marathon guru Chris Miller As you read this, there is either only a short couple of weeks until the Dubai Marathon on January 21 or you’ve been incredibly slack, not picked up the first What’s On of 2011 and it’s already over. We will assume that you serious runners out there, those mighty marathon warriors who joined us on our righteous quest and signed up to run the race beside us, fit into the former category and need to hear our marathon guru Chris Miller’s final pearls of running wisdom. So here they are. Firstly, if you’re going to buy a new pair of trainers, do it at least two weeks before the race so you can run them in. Do not, whatever happens, don a virgin pair of pumps on the day. You will get blisters. “Tone down what you are doing a couple of weeks before the race,” advises Chris. “Just nice easy runs, especially in the last week, and nothing in the last two to three days beforehand.” During those last few days you should book yourself a massage, make sure your mobility is good and do plenty of stretching. And the night before the big day? “It’s a big thing,” says Chris. “People, especially if it’s their first marathon, get nervous or excited, but it’s important you get a good night’s sleep.” But before you hit the sack you should eat a healthy meal with plenty of carbs and protein, make sure you have all your kit laid out, ready for the morning, and drink plenty of water. “Make sure you hydrate,” warns Chris. “You should be doing that anyway, but the day before make sure you drink enough and on the day itself make sure you stay hydrated. Here in the
Team What's On put through their paces
Chris Miller dispenses the advice
UAE, even during winter, the heat can be quite dehydrating when you’re exercising outside.” But you’ll need more than good ol’ H20 to get you through. Exercising for more than 90 minutes will deplete the energy resources in your muscles, so you will have to replenish them with energy drinks to avoid suffering from cramps. And make sure you stick to the drink you’ve used during your training. “If you’ve found a good energy drink that doesn’t upset your stomach and you’ve been using it for a while, whatever you do, don’t change it,” warns Chris. “I said there’s nothing worse than running with blisters, but there’s definitely nothing worse than running with diarrhoea.” Other than that, warm up properly and ready your mind. “Remember it’s your race, you don’t have to prove anything to anybody. You make it over the line, you get a medal just like everybody else,” says Chris. “And when the gun goes, don’t go for broke. It’s a long way 42km and you have to run your own race, run how you’ve been training, don’t let the excitement of the day get to you too much so you burn out too early.” Good luck. See you at the finish line.
RUN WITH US! Join our free weekly What’s On training session with Chris and Mr Fitness at Safa Park, 6.30am every Monday. For more information, contact gareth@motivate.ae. Also keep an eye on our Twitter (twitter.com/WhatsOnDubai) and Facebook (facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai) for updates and our blog (www.runwhatsonrun.wordpress.com) for more detailed advice. JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 55
SPORT & OUTDOOR Got a fitness question for James? E-mail otivate.ae o editor-w @m
Mr Fitness Our resident exercise guru answers your health and fitness questions The free weight area in my gym is full of wellmuscled types and is pretty intimidating. As a result I stick to the machines – am I missing out? James, Palm Jumeirah My gut instinct is to say yes. However, it depends on your reason for training. If the free weight area is full of people that you want to look like, then I would say get in there, get to know some of them and get involved in their training. That is not to say that the machines won’t help you out to a degree, but if you have been training for more than a few months then I would suggest that you are ready to progress to the free weights.
I eat pretty well during the day but sometimes wake up in the night with cravings. How can I curb the late night fridge raiding? Beverly, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi Without knowing more about your nutritional habits or what it is you are craving, it is going to be difficult to give you the right strategy to curb your late night fridge raiding. Here are a couple you might want to try though… There
is a simple saying, ‘if you own it, you’ll eat it’. So, if you are craving something that you feel is not good for you, then the simplest thing to do is not have it in the house or fridge, therefore you simply cannot eat it. Protein and good fats tend to me more satiating, which means they leave you feeling more full. By ensuring that your last meal of the day is based on these two macronutrients, you should hopefully not feel the need to snack late at night.
As a woman I want to be well toned and know I should be doing strength training, but I really don’t want to bulk up or look like a female body builder. What exercises should I be doing? Tina, Jumeirah
that you should be doing aren’t all that different to those female body builders or other female athletes do. The major difference is female body builders generally train at a much higher volume and frequency than the average trainee, and they consume a lot more food. I’m glad that you recognise the need to strength train and would love it if you trusted me when I say that, if done properly, you won’t get bulky. Some of the exercises I would recommend are split squats, dead-lift variations, pull-ups (or a regression of ) and an overhead pressing movement.
I prefer to avoid gyms and exercising in public, so I've decided to invest in some equipment to use at home. I can afford one machine and some weights. What do you recommend I buy? Praveen, Bur Dubai The equipment needed to get awesome results at home doesn’t need to be particularly complicated. One of my former clients got fantastic results using just Power Blocks (adjustable dumbbells), a rowing machine and a TRX.
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In all honesty, the exercises
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JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 57
SPORT & OUTDOOR
Sports shorts A duet of new year sporting events SEEING REDS If you’re not aged between seven and 16, stop reading now. If you are, demand that your parents send you to the ten-week Manchester United Soccer Schools programme. You will spend 12.5 hours on the pitch learning how to become the next midfield sensation and if you score enough goals you could be one of two people sent to Manchester to compete in the MUSS World Skills Final. If you’re not, you still walk home with a Man United training kit, bag, bottle and ball. Jan 8, Manchester United Soccer Schools, Dome@Rawdhat, Abu Dhabi, Dhs1,650. Tel: (02) 4498480. www.manutdsoccerschools.ae JOLLY HOCKEY STICKS Did you ever see that movie The Mighty Ducks, starring Emilio Estevez as a junior ice hockey coach? Come on, it was a classic of the 1990s! Well, fortunately for you, the Emirates Hockey League Cup preliminary matches will be taking place February 2, 9 and 16 and March 9 at Dubai Ice Rink. That’s right, you can watch the Dubai Mighty Camels (see, they’ve seen it), Abu Dhabi Scorpions, Abu Dhabi Storms, Al Ain Theebs and Al Ain Vipers fight it out for a place in the semi-finals. And it’s free. From Feb 2, Emirates Hockey League Cup, Dubai Ice Rink, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, 8.15pm, free. Tel: (04) 4485111. www. dubaiicerink.com 58 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Triathlon man We’ll be running the Dubai Marathon and preparing for the RAK Half this month, but if you’re still looking for that spark of inspiration, the Tri Yas triathlon at Yas Marina Circuit is sure to provide it. We’ll be there cheering on our fellow marathon man and local boy Eissa Raisi as he competes in his first multi-discipline event. Come on, Eissa! When did you start running? When I was young I played football for a club in Al Ain and I twisted my knee, so I shifted to endurance horse riding and then I started marathon running last year. Just last year? That’s right, my first marathon was in 2009 in Dubai. I had never run an official race before, but I did it with two friends and it was great fun. We finished in around four hours. I’m running the Dubai Marathon again this month. I ran the RAK Half last year and I’ve signed up to do that again as well. We’re running both of those races. How did you do in RAK last year? I finished it in one hour fifty. Beat us by eight minutes. How many marathons have you run? I’ve done four marathons now. Dubai was my first, then I ran one in Beirut, one in Prague and recently one in Istanbul. It’s the only marathon where you run from one continent to another – from Asia to Europe, over the Bosphorus Bridge. I got cramp after 20km but I forced myself to finish the marathon. It took a long time – about five and a half hours. But I finished it.
That must have been agony. Why have you decided to punish yourself with a triathlon? It’s fun. The training for Yas has been more interesting than training for a marathon. I have been working with my American friend. One day we go swimming 1.5km, one day we go running and once a week we go cycling. I’ve been preparing for this race since before I went to Istanbul two months ago, but I’ve been swimming now for six or seven months. What’s next? Well, there’s Dubai and RAK and then I have signed up for a marathon in Barcelona in March. But Iron Man is my goal. I have the schedule. For three months you have to train for at least two disciplines a day. So in one day you may have to do a 1km swim, then run 16km and cycle 20km. Then the next day you have to do a little bit more. Jan 14, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, from 1pm, free. Tel: (02) 4460384. www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
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MUSIC
BANTHDE OF TH MON
Jay Wud’s album New Blood has the perfect title, he’s so far from the manufactured, reality TV pop acts and even contrived wannabe rebel ‘musicians’, that there’s a unique, otherworldly feel to this soulful rocker. But with his velvet jacket, quiet smile and affable manner, the man belies the music and lyrics on his debut record, which is packed with raw chords, political references to his hometown of Beirut and international influences. Overwhelmingly though, what will scream from your speakers is rock ‘n’ roll, making it all the more impressive that this 27-year-old is the sole musician on the self-penned album; from vocals and guitar to production, New Blood is the result of nearly two years of work. Jay has already supported Aerosmith and Robert Plant, but 2011 could well be the year we clutch tickets for a big solo show by this cool character. www.jaywud.com
SHOT ON LOCATION AT SKI DUBAI
Jay Wud
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 61
CLUB DIARY This month’s clubbing highlights
1
Big Day Out @ Nasimi Beach Infusion Magazine presents 36 of Dubai's top DJs dropping trip-hop to funk. Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, 2am to 2pm, Dhs50 to Dhs100, free for ladies 2pm to 6pm. Tel: (050) 8717493. www.atlantisthepalm.com Residents Retox Party @ MustHaveSoul Ease into 2011 with soulful dance (residents weekly from January 8 onwards). 360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (055) 6160643. www. musthavesoul.com
3
WEEKLY
Afif Trio featuring Phillippa @ It's Alive Jazz standards garnished by Phillippa's sultry vocals. Cavalli Club, Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 8pm to 11.30pm, free. Tel: (04) 3329260. www.cavalliclubdubai.com
6
WEEKLY
Afroboogie @ NEO Nights Deep, percussive and banging tech monsters from Afroboogie. Sensation, Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3324383. www.afroboogie.com
1
Big Day Out @ Nasimi Beach
7
D*I*R*T*Y D*I*S*C*O @ SYNF Back-to-back asterisk-strewn disco delights from local residents Da:Funct, Just Some Kid and Bicep. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs80 to Dhs100. Tel: (055) 8825675 WEEKLY
Residents @ MustHaveSoul MustHaveSoul mainstays plus Skylite resident Alex L drop soulful gems, in what's becoming a hot little party for the capital crew. Skylite, The Yas Hotel, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (055) 6160643. www. musthavesoul.com Solomun @ Trilogy Expect redefined Euro house from the German-based co-founder of the Diynamic label. Definitely worth checking out. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free before 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277.
14
Franck Roger @ Trilogy French deep house don/Real Tone label boss Roger recreates a slice of 1990s Parisian spirit for the always-up-for-it Trilogy regulars. Fun, fun, fun. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free before 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277.
14 Hisham Zahran @ Audio Tonic Rising Egyptian talent Hisham Zahran has been hotly tipped, notably on Radio 1. Currently based in Alexandria, he co-runs the label, Union Jack, and also operates as a production duo with younger brother Adham Are you looking forward to Audio Tonic? Definitely. I’ve been in contact about this gig for almost two years but every time something happens, so I’m just excited I’m finally playing. I’ve been to Dubai a couple of times, but never as a DJ. I have family there and a lot of friends working there. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone. What’s Egypt’s house scene like? Pretty much non-existent. I haven't
62 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
7
D*I*R*T*Y D*I*S*C*O @ SYNF
played here in over two years. I choose not to get involved; it’s only going to bring me down. Tell us about your sibling production duo... We’ve just started, we have a few releases in the pipeline. We’ve never DJ’d together. He has a different style, much deeper house than I play. He’s only 20. I think he’s going to smoke me in the next couple of years, make me look foolish! What are your hopes for 2011? Hopefully get enough gigs so I can quit my day job. I work at a bank, it’s not very exciting. I don’t belong there to be honest, but I have to see some signs first. You can’t be foolish with your life, chase a dream and end up eating tuna from a can for a whole month! 360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. www. myspace.com/hzahran
CLUB DIARY
21
28
27
Steve Mill @ Audio Tonic Grecian goodness from producer/DJ aligned with respected UK house imprint Urban Torque. 360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. www.stevemill. com
WHAT'S ON PICK
Craig Richards @ Trilogy Long-time resident at legendary London nightspot Fabric rolls out his patented tech house eclectica. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free before 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277.
DJane Simone @ Zenith Party German house lady brings an invasion of funky beats and sexy tribal rhythms. Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, 9pm to 3.30am, Dhs100, couples and ladies free. Tel: (02) 6773333
Dorian Paic @ Trilogy Sven Väth's Cocoon-associated spinner lines up a set of quality German techno/house. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free before 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. WHAT'S ON PICK
3
Afif Trio featuring Phillippa @ It's Alive
13 Bob Sinclar @ Atelier
GETTY IMAGE S \ GRAPHEAST
Atelier’s season-closing party presents the French house star behind globe-straddling hits Love Generation and Rock This Party (Everybody Dance Now). His latest single Tik Tok, featuring Sean Paul, is out now As a glamorous guy, do you love the Dubai lifestyle? I am not living that luxury every day. But when there is luxury people always want to have fun, party and the most beautiful girls arrive, of course. We’re ready to have a very beautiful party. What inspired your current greatesthits-done-reggae-style album, Made In Jamaica? I’ve been going to Jamaica five years now since I met the singer of Love Generation, Gary Pine [of Bob Marley’s The Wailers]. I met Sly & Robbie and spent 15 days in their studio. I wanted to recreate the theme they had in 1979 for the Serge Gainsbourg album Aux Armes Et Cætera. I’m a big fan of him. The album is up for a Grammy. Are you attending the ceremony? Yeah. I have two invitations, so if I go with my mother she will be very proud.
21 David Vendetta @ Diablo Red Carpet
French house head David Vendetta found favour in the Middle East with hit single Yama Layali, featuring Lebanese singer Haifa Wehbe, from last year's album Vendetta. He graces Diablo’s swanky opening weekend Did you notice your popularity in the Middle East increase after Yama Layali? Yes. I decided to work with Haifa Wehbe because I wanted to offer my fans a track entirely sung in Arabic. It is a gift to them.
Love Generation was a football World Cup anthem. What do you make of the Middle East hosting the 2022 finals? Ah yes, why not. It’s very ambitious to have stadiums with air conditioning, but Qatar can do that. They have huge ideas. Maybe there is only desert, but they like to entertain people. Chi @ The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai, 10pm to 4am, Dhs150 to Dhs450. Tel: (04) 3379470. www.bobsinclar.com
Do you enjoy playing Dubai? Every time I've performed there I was very impressed by the clubs, the sound quality and the resident DJs. People are very open-minded; they truly love music and listen with interest. My radio show is a huge success in Dubai. It’s a real pleasure to perform there and an honour to play the opening of Diablo. Diablo is Spanish for devil. Do you harbour a devilish dark side? I won’t say devilish, but as a DJ I have a dark side, which emerges when I’m playing clubs. During the day I'm David Paparusso and I have normal activities: I work in my studio, I’m with my family. But by night I become David Vendetta and I’m absorbed in music. Diablo, IBN Battuta Gate Hotel, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free (reservations only). Tel: (050) 9666408/(050) 9666414. www. davidvendetta.com
21 Craig Richards @ Trilogy
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 63
TRAVEL
The great outdoors
ISTOCK
Just a short train journey from Milan, the small Swiss city of Ascona on the shore of Lake Maggiore will provide a rejuvenating break from the hustle and bustle Historians chortle that the one good thing fascist dictator Benito Mussolini achieved during his time in charge of Italy was to make the trains run on time. And now, a good 70 years since brutal Ben was strung up to a lamppost with a handy length of piano wire, the Italian train service is still one of Europe’s most efficient. Incidentally, not long before Mussolini took charge of Italy, dancer Rudolf von Laban had opened an art school on Ascona’s Monte Verità (Hill of Truth) in the Swiss canton of Ticino – a mere two hour train journey from Milan. Rudolf is long gone, but fortunately there is a train from Milan in the north of Italy to the Swiss city of Ascona – and it runs regularly and on time. Milan is a popular destination for UAE travellers and much has been written about its many appealing facets, but if you’re making the eight-hour flight to Italy why not stay an extra few days? And if you do, we advise you take the two-hour train journey to Ascona and live life slowly for a while in an environment that is as far removed from the noise and befuddling pace of life in the UAE as Mussolini was from Rudolf von Laban. Ascona is a small city in the district of Locarno and it’s beautifully and picturesque in an authentic rather than a postcard kind of way. If you’re fortunate enough to be staying at Ascona’s foremost establishment, the five-star Hotel Eden Roc, you will be positioned perfectly just a brisk pootle from the beach, Ascona village and the piazza right on the shore of the shimmering Lake Maggiore where the famous New Orleans Jazz Festival Ascona is held in June and July. You could easily spend a week just wandering around, savouring the cuisine at one of the many waterfront restaurants, all composed of beautifully fresh local produce, and maybe enjoying the activities on offer at the dedicated water sports school. But there are three things you simply must do in Ascona: see the village sights and walk to the
LONG HAUL
Lake view: the church of Ronco sopra Ascona beside the majestic Lake Maggiore JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 65
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TRAVEL | ASCONA
24 HOURS IN MILAN
A guide to how to spend your brief time in the Italian style capital
Take a hike: there's no better place for a brisk stroll than the lush Verzasca Valley
top of Monte Verità, take a motorboat trip on Lake Maggiore and go for a long hike through one of the surrounding valleys. The best way to gain a sense of place and learn the history of Ascona is to book a guided tour of the town and climb the Hill of Truth. We contacted the local tourist board, Ticino Turismo (www.ticino.ch), and spent two hours exploring Ascona with a knowledgeable and friendly local lady who had a real love for her hometown. In the village, we took a look at the two churches, Pietro e Paolo and Maria della Misericordia e Collegio Papio and the Ghiriglioni Castle, which is now a luxury hotel, before beginning the gradual ascent of Monte Verità. There is a steep stone stairway from the village to the top of the mountain, but unless you’re feeling particularly energetic, it’s best to save that for the way down. Monte Verità is a mountain with an interesting story. It was just another hill until 1900 when Henry Oederkoven, a 25-year-old
from a rich Belgian family, set up a vegetarian colony with his partner Ida Hoffmann, but since then it has attracted all manner of weird and wonderful individuals looking to live the utopian dream. German brothers Karl and Gustav Gräser joined the commune, but when Oederkoven and Hoffmann decided to transform it into a sanatorium and welcome visitors, the brothers ran off into the woods. One of them was never seen again (maybe he’s still there?). Monte Verità soon began to attract thinkers and creative types ranging from psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung to writer Hermann Hesse and Rudolf van Laban, who set up that dance school. From the mid-1920s to the mid-1960s Baron Eduard Von der Heydt ran a hotel on the mountain before donating it to Canton Ticino who built a conference centre that today hosts a variety of cultural events. You can still see some of the structures, outdoor baths and contraptions built by Oederkoven and his cooperative, as well as visit a museum
Your journey from the UAE to Ascona will begin with a flight to Milan, from there you will have to catch your train to Ascona from Milano Centrale station. Make sure you book an overnight flight arriving early in the morning, check yourself into the exquisite Radisson Blu Hotel (www.radissonblu.com), dig out your camera, grab a map of the city centre from the concierge and catch a tram into central Milan for a few hours of sightseeing around much maligned, but actually remarkably attractive, city. The tram journey from the hotel will take about 30 minutes, carrying you through the ramshackle outskirts right into the centre. Hop off when you see the crowds and make your way to Piazza del Duomo to take a look at the city’s famous gothic cathedral. If you’re hungry, have a bite to eat at one of the touristy restaurants. Some may frown at this advice, but Italian cooking is spot on in most places and we enjoyed a classic risotto Milanese and a glass of wine for just Dhs50. In the afternoon take a stroll down Milan’s famous shopping street Quadrillatero d’Oro and ogle the designer fashion before visiting the museum at La Scala opera house and, if you have time and have booked tickets, the Santa Maria delle Grazie church to view Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (www.vivaticket. it). You should be back at your hotel in time to download your pics, order a pizza from room service and get an early night before rising for breakfast and your morning train to Ascona.
Night life: eat at one of the small restaurants with a prime view of the harbour
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 67
TRAVEL | ASCONA Fresh fish: order fish straight from the lake at Eden Roc's Marina restaurant
Need to know WHERE TO STAY Hotel Eden Roc If you’re visiting Ascona, you’ll be looking to make the most of one of the most relaxing environments in Europe, and there’s no better way to do so than checking into the Hotel Eden Roc. The five-star hotel excels at understated, European style and luxury (none of the extravagance found in the UAE) with friendly and extremely helpful staff led by manager Jens Wycisk, a variety of large suites facing Lake Maggiore as well as a number of cheaper rooms. There’s also the lovely new Eden Roc Spa where a masseuse soothed our aching muscles after our long hike, several restaurants, including chef Rolf Krapf’s Le Brezza where we ate a multi-course gourmet meal, and the hotel's own private marina and water sports school. The hotel will also happily assist with tours of the town, boat trips and hiking expeditions. Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona, Switzerland. Tel: +41 (0) 917857171. www.edenroc.ch
Boat trip: take a boat trip across Lake Maggiore and see Ascona from a different perspective
and the Japanese teahouse and garden. And on your way back down, make sure to pause for a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of Ascona and Lake Maggiore below. If you want to see Ascona from a different perspective, hire a motorboat and pilot from the hotel’s marina. You can spend an hour skidding across the crisp waters, past the house of the current owner of the Falke sock empire (he owns a handsome boat as well, which can be seen bobbing about near his own personal jetty). Cruise past the botanical gardens on Isole di Brissago (a boat daily service ferries tourists to the island), and the surrounding hills and various colourful house lining the shore. After your boat trip, pop into the Eden Roc Marina restaurant, order a glass of the local white wine and some fresh fish and enjoy the view of the lake your lunch used to call home. Finally, no matter how slothful you are feeling, you must go hiking. It’s the best way to relish the dramatic natural bounty of the area. We caught a bus from outside the train station in Locarno and started the long chug up the winding slope towards Sonogno – the final village in the eye-poppingly scenic Verzasca Valley. During the hour-long journey you will pass the dam featured in Bond movie Golden Eye, the impressive 17th century Ponte dei Salti Bridge in Laverezzo and numerous charming villages. When you reach Sonogno, you will be 919 metres above sea level and at the start of what is billed as a two-hour hike (we did it in 90 minutes) to the picturesque village of Gerra further down the valley. The trail is very well signposted allowing you to 68 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
Making a splash: adventurous types leap from the Ponte dei Salti bridge in Lavertezzo
enjoy the scenery without worrying about getting lost in the wilderness. As you follow the Verzasca, shrouded by the grassy slopes of the valley and under the shadow of lanky trees and luscious green foliage, you will pass the odd cow, historic villages replete with grey stone buildings in various states of repair and a dairy farm before reaching Gerra. And then you’ll know exactly why you decided to visit Switzerland in the first place.
HOW TO GET THERE Flight L Emirates Airline flies direct from Dubai to Milan with prices from Dhs4,185 return and Qatar Airways goes via Doha with prices from Dhs3,065 return L Etihad Airways flies direct from Abu Dhabi to Milan with prices from Dhs4,115 return Train Regular trains run from Milano Centrale to Bellinzona and from Bellinzona on to Locarno, just a short taxi ride from Ascona. Ticket prices from Dhs150. CURRENCY CHF100 = Dhs380
TRAVEL | TRAVELS WITH...
Travels with…
TRAVEL EXTRA
Tony Wheeler
guidebook so you can escape the airport and go look around the town or somewhere else nearby. What do you never travel without? My GPS. I like to know where I am, where I’m going and how fast I’m getting there. What destination serves the best food? Melbourne in Australia. So many different cuisines, so much food culture (chefs are celebrities) and Melbournians take coffee seriously – how many cities have forced Starbucks to pack their bags and go home? www.lonelyplanet.com
“I like to know where I am, where I’m going and how fast I’m getting there” ISTOCK
Lonely Planet founder and director Tony Wheeler was born a traveller, growing up in the UK, Pakistan, West Indies and the USA. He produced his first travel book after a trip across Asia in 1972, and went on to create a company that has more than 500 travel titles in print today
What’s the best holiday you’ve ever had? I joined a bunch of ‘been everywhere’ travellers on a month-long trip up the west coast of Africa in a chartered aircraft – a 50-year-old Convair 580. How often do you get to go from Capetown to Casablanca via Namibia, Angola, Benin, Gabon, Central African Republic, Mali and other countries on the ‘seldom visited’ list? In fact, a lot of my best trips have been in Africa – a year ago I bicycled 1,000km through Tanzania and Malawi, the year before I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the year before that I drove from London to Banjul in Gambia. What’s been your biggest travel disaster? Touch wood, I’ve always got back and started thinking about the next trip, so really nothing could qualify as a disaster. If you could advise people to visit one destination, what would it be? China. It’s heading rapidly towards becoming the world’s number one tourist destination, it’s big in every measure and going through so many changes, so fast that if you just stand still for ten minutes everything shifts. It’s also getting easier and easier to travel around and yet it can still spring surprises on you. What are your three top tips for surviving a long airport stopover? A good novel, a laptop with Wi-Fi so you can catch up on work or contacts and a good
Gotta get out of this place? Read on for top travel bargains ROME Walk off those Christmas calories and take in some spectacular sights with this reduced priced mini-break. It’s time for a Roman holiday. Until March 31 you can get return flights, four nights in the elegant De La Ville InterContinental Hotel Rome, daily breakfast, one complimentary dinner and taxes included from Dhs4,985 per person based on two people sharing. www.dnataholidays.com 70 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
KERALA Forget the frantic city of Delhi, verdant, peaceful Kerala in Southern India couldn’t be more different to the rest of the country. This Air Arabia package will whisk you to the backwaters where you’ll stay for three nights in a premium resort. The Dhs2,130 price tag includes return flights, accommodation, boat trips, Ayurvedic massage and full board, taxes, surcharges and visa for India. www.airarabia.com
CAPE TOWN The weather is amazing at the moment in cosmopolitan Cape Town, so it’s the ideal time to explore the beaches, vineyards, mountains and fishing villages. This special offer luxurious break includes return flights accommodation at the One&Only hotel with breakfast, and if you buy three nights you’ll get the fourth free. From Dhs8,910. www.emirates-holidays.com
businessatone
Snack on cracking deals during business hours, choose from three wonderful Business Meals. AED29 for Business Breakfast at T-Garden Choice of hot beverage plus viennoiserie or pastry. AED58 for Lebanese Lunch at Sahriye Includes an appetizer, main course & dessert. AED99 for South East Fusion Lunch at Wokcano Includes an appetizer, main course & dessert. AED140 for a Steak - Lunch at 18oz Includes an appetizer, main course & dessert. Sahriye offers free home delivery within Abu Dhabi city. Minimum order AED100. Weekend room rates starting from AED345*
Room rates are subject to availability, exclusive of 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee. *RXUPHW&OXE PHPEHUV DUH HQWLWOHG WR VWDQGDUG EHQH¿WV
For restaurant bookings or more information call : 02 4952000
Al Salam Street, p.o.box 128967, Abu Dhabi, UAE. t. +971 2 4952000 f. +971 2 4952001 info.thevillage@onetoonehotels.com onetoonehotels.com GPS coordinates +24° 28' 31.11", +54° 23' 16.84"
THE HOT LIST Key New entry Non-mover Up Down
Bars Restaurants Brunches Spas BICE
p75 p79 p83 p87
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 73
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THE HOT LIST BARS
THE FINEST FOR BEVERAGES AND BITES
Relax@12
ATMOSPHERE
1
LOCATION
BEST FOR
Yacht Club
PRICE
Friendly and busy, like a good bar should be.
With its raft of great bars and restaurants, the Souk Qaryat Al Beri is our number one entertainment spot in the capital.
Mingling and meeting new people.
Around average drinks prices for the capital, although some of the cocktails can send the bill creeping up.
2
It’s chilled early on, while later in the evening the party vibe kicks in as the DJ spins some house grooves.
There are few cooler locations in the capital than this marina-side bar.
Dressing up to the nines and being seen.
3
Within a few months of opening Relax@12 has become one of the busiest bars in the capital.
Perched on top of Aloft, one of the hippest new hotels in the city.
A near perfect recreation of a fin de siècle European bar.
As homely as a wooden chalet in the Black Forest.
Left Bank
Yacht Club
Relax@12
4
Belgian Café
5
Brauhaus
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
The stylish interior was the place to dine over the summer, but now it's terrace time.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Wed 7pm to 1pm, Thurs and Fri 7pm to 2am. Tel: (02) 5581680. www.emiratesleisureretail. com
Your wallet will be considerably lighter after a night out here.
It’s bearable outside, so the outdoor space comes into its own once again.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Sat to Wed noon to 1am, Thurs noon to 3am, Fri 2pm to 3am, Sat 5pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup. com
A nightclub vibe, without the queues to get in and cover charge.
Refreshingly affordable.
This is rapidly becoming one of our favourite haunts.
Aloft Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Khaleej Al Arabi Street, 5pm to 2am. Tel: (02) 6545000. www.aloftabudhabi. com
Some of the capital's best bars and restaurants – Yacht Club and Chamas to name but two – are located at the InterCon, making this quite the nightlife hub.
Great food and a few beers with pals.
It’s on the expensive side, but justifiably so.
Don’t leave without trying the Belgian waffles.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, 5pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup. com
The Beach Rotana hotel also has the superb Pregos, Rodeo Grill and Benihana restaurants and the ace Trader Vic’s bar, all under one roof.
A plate of German sausage and sauerkraut and a stein of lager.
You’ll rack up a hefty bar tab if you order too many of the speciality beers.
Celebrate Christmas here. Guaranteed messiness.
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6979000. www.rotana.com
JANUARY 2011 OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S WHAT’S ON ON 75 75
HOT ON EELSéridien THeillyE’s,H Le Royal M
BARS
a 11 PJ O’R Crowne Plaz r 12 Heroes, Cafe, Al Dia om tt Bo ck 13 Ro el Capital Hot Al Bahr irmont Bab Fa n, eo el aton er Sh 14 Cham r, hcombe 15 The Beac Dhabi Abu
Stills
ATMOSPHERE
6 Y Bar
7
LOCATION
BEST FOR
PRICE
Y Bar is becoming the coolest spot for suburban Abu Dhabians to hang out.
Persuade your designated driver to head out to Yas Island. It’s packed with great bars and restaurants.
Anyone looking for a change of scenery.
Mid-range.
With the huge bar and leather seating, there’s a smart city pub feel.
Stills would be our favourite local pub, if it only it were a bit more, well, local.
A couple of afterwork pints.
There’s a Polynesian island feel, with various island brica-brac lining the walls.
The Beach Rotana's one of the city’s oldest, but classiest, hotels.
8
Stark and glamorous, with a pretty strict door policy. Worth getting dressed up to watch the beautiful crowd, though.
9 Pearls
Grown-up good fun in slick surrounds.
10 Etoiles
76 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
Fast becoming the landing pad for those living off the main island.
Yas Island Rotana Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 2.30am. Tel: (02) 6564000. www.rotana.com
The drinks are reasonably priced, but the food tends to be a bit pricey.
Stills serves one of the finest beef pies in the city. Kudos from us.
Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, noon to 12.30am. Tel: (02) 6563000. www.ichotelsgroup. com
If you like your cocktails large, ice cold and packed with fruit, head here.
Too many big nights on the cocktails at Traders and you’ll be off to the workhouse.
Try the Mai Tai. It’s the cocktail that made Trader Vic’s famous.
Beach Rotana, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 6979000. www.rotana.com
At the very lovely Shangri-La, Pearls has views over the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
A good place for posing, bobbing your head to some chill-out tunes with a cocktail in hand and tapas order on the way.
Not cheap. At all. But then this probably isn’t the place to be throwing drinks down your neck.
Cracking cocktails and super service could see this place climb the hot list.
Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 5098888. www. shangri-la.com
It’s in Emirates Palace, the world’s most expensive hotel, so expect haute couture by the shop-load.
Open until 3.30am, Etoiles is a strong shout for postdrinks dancing or dinner that turns into a big night.
Fairly ghastly on the wallet.
Not as stuck-up as you’d expect for a seven-star hotel.
Emirates Palace Hotel, Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Wed 10pm to 3am, Thur to Fri 11pm to 3.30am. Tel: (02) 6907999. www.etoilesuae.com
Stills
Trader Vic's
Etoiles
THE HOT LIST RESTAURANTS
THE ELITE OF THE EATING OUT SCENE
MPW Steakhouse & Grill
ATMOSPHERE
1 2 3 4 5 Ushna
LOCATION
PRICE
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
The chandeliers and oil paintings are the epitome of understated elegance.
European cuisine served without the unnecessary foams and jellies.
The Between The Bridges area is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of superb restaurants.
Dhs800 for two, sans alcohol, is a good estimate of what you’ll pay.
The restaurant is huge, but always packed with diners wanting to see if Hakkasan lives up to its esteemed reputation.
Small alcoves, divided up by Oriental wooden panels create a mazelike feel to the huge restaurant.
The jasmine smoked beef is out of this world.
A Michelinstarred restaurant in the world’s most expensive hotel. Yes, this is luxury living.
Your bill’s going to hit the fourfigure mark. Deal with it.
Hakkasan is now hitting its stride. Expect it to battle for the top spot.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6909000. www.hakkasan. com
Warm and cosy, and luckily lacking a stuckup vibe.
The dim lighting and dark walls make the dining room feel like a snug little barn.
The finest steaks and British cuisine in the capital.
One of our favourite hotels in Abu Dhabi.
If your budget doesn’t stretch to at least Dhs800 for a three-course meal for two, we advise eating elsewhere.
With this and Frankie’s under his Abu Dhabi belt, MPW is a local hero.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 6543333. www.fairmont. com
The open kitchen and the swarms of waiters dashing about carrying chunks of meat makes for a bustling vibe.
A cavernous restaurant, decked out in a chic black leather theme.
Prior to visiting Chamas, skip some meals to save room for the barrage of meat that will be sliced onto your plate.
Nab a spot on the terrace at the nearby Yacht Club for after dinner drinks.
Take advantage of a meaty dinner and free-flowing caipirinhas for Dhs295 from Fridays to Wednesdays. Bargain.
We love meat, hence we love Chamas.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 6666888. www. ichotelsgroup. com
Modern, sophisticated, but definitely Indian.
The earthbrown theme and sleek furniture mean we give Ushna’s interior designers two thumbs up.
The finest Northern Indian cuisine made with delicate combinations of spices.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri has plenty of shops and bars, so you won’t be stuck for activities after your meal.
When your bill arrives, expect it to be in the region of Dhs500 for two.
The best curry house in Abu Dhabi.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 5581769. www.cplmg.com
MPW Steakhouse & Grill
Chamas
FOOD
Effortlessly sophisticated.
Bord Eau
Hakkasan
INTERIOR
Hakkasan
A taste of France in the desert. A must for foodies.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.shangri-la. com
JANUARY 2011 OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S WHAT’S ON ON 79 79
HOT ON EELSal Bahr THE H irmont Bab
RESTAURANTS
, Fa 11 Frankie’s , Park Rotana 12 Teatro i-La lace, Shangr 13 Shang Pa on Blu Yas Island ss di bi 14 Filini, Ra on Abu Dha 15 Bice, Hilt
Toki
PRICE ON ATMOSPHERE WHAT’S INTERIOR SAYS...
6 Toki
7 Finz
9 Etoiles
10 Mombasa Grille
LOCATION
PRICE
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
Our favourite spot for sushi, and clearly most other people’s too, as it’s generally packed to the rafters.
A neon illuminated sushi station in the corner is the focal point in the darkly decorated, dimly lit dining room.
An extensive menu, which contains some unusual regional Japanese dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in the UAE.
The Hilton’s slightly dated, but has a certain old school charm.
Expect change from a Dhs500 note for a threecourse meal for two.
We love the bento boxes; a great way to sample a variety of cuisines.
Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6814151. www.hilton.com
A favourite spot for VIPs and jetsetters.
The glass walls mean there’s plenty of light during the day in this ultra-modern restaurant.
The freshest fish, crabs, lobsters and shellfish cooked beautifully with a selection of puréed vegetables.
The Yas Hotel looks like NASA scientists have designed it. The restaurant has reopened after a refurb.
Pushing close to the four-figure mark for a three-course meal for two.
Light and bright, this is lovely for lunch and is transformed at night.
The Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6560600. www. theyashotel. com
The wooden chalet is a charming and romantic dining spot.
With its shark skulls, fishing nets and lobster baskets lining the walls, Jacques Cousteau would feel right at home in Finz.
Up there with the best seafood creations in the capital.
The beachside terrace is calling…
Dhs700 is about average for a three-course meal without booze.
Fresh seafood and quality ingredients are what Finz does.
Beach Rotana, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 3.30pm and 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6979000. www.rotana. com
Very relaxed to start, with the pace picking up as the night moves on – this is a restaurantcum-nightclub after all.
The tables overlook a dance floor, leaving you in no doubt of its alter ego.
European and British dishes, cooked with flair.
At the far end of the Emirates Palace’s gigantic lobby, with the sauvé air to match.
A meal for two should come in around the Dhs700 region.
The steamed monkfish with lobster tail will knock you sideways.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6909000. www.etoilesuae. com
Busy, without being rammed, meaning you should be able to find a table here.
Eclectic, to say the least, with African masks, spears and animal skins lining the walls.
A huge array of fine dishes from around the world, from Indian curries to African grilled meats.
Pop into Left Bank, our number one bar in the capital, after your meal. It’s virtually next door.
Around Dhs600 will do for a meal for two.
A restaurant that manages to master a variety of international cuisines.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 5581868.www. mobasagrille.ae
Nautilus
8
INFO FOOD
Mombasa Grille
80 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 80
The Fish Market is Dubai’s favourite “market style” fresh seafood restaurant which offers unrivalled views of the Creek as well as the freshest seafood available. Choose from a wide selection of freshly caught fish and an array of seafood delicacies, then relax whilst our team of South East Asian Chefs prepare it exactly as you like it. Fish Market, Seafood restaurant, is open daily for Lunch from 12:30 pm - 3:15 pm, Dinner 7:30 pm - 11:15 pm
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Baniyas Road, P.O. Box 476, Dubai UAE For Bookings, please call 04-205 7333 Infocenter.Dxbza@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaideiracreek
Use your card to put a smile on his face, every month. It doesn’t take much to change the life of a child with special needs. In fact, by debiting your credit card just a few dirhams every month, you won’t believe what can be achieved. Your contribution will help the Al Noor Training Centre provide these kids with better facilities, better care and ultimately, a better chance in life. You probably won’t even notice the amount you pay each month. But, believe us, the kids certainly will. Join our recurring Credit Card Donation Program online at www.alnoorspneeds.ae or call +971 4 340 4844 Thank you for your ongoing generosity.
THE HOT LIST BRUNCHES
OUR PICK OF THE BRUNCH BUNCH
One To One
1
ATMOSPHERE
FOOD
LOCATION
This brunch attracts a classy, well-behaved crowd.
Enough seafood to fill a trawler, plus a vast selection of meats and salads.
At long last it’s cool enough to venture into the stunning gardens of Emirates Palace, making this brunch a worthy number one.
Impressing visitors with Middle Eastern luxury.
Everyone is here to have fun, but it rarely gets too rowdy.
A truly international blend of curries, sushi and Arabic food, as well as a cracking cheeseboard.
The glitzy Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is just minutes away from a raft of other bars and restaurants at the Souk Qaryat Al Beri.
A relaxed a la carte brunch in a cool bar.
Some truly superb PanAsian cuisine, including sushi, noodles and tempura.
As chilled as a lazy donkey snoozing under a tree.
It starts out quiet, but has been known to become a bit boisterous later on.
Le Vendome Brasserie
2
Elements
3
Yacht Club
4
Sofra Boulevard
5
Al Fanar
Al Fanar
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
Dhs565 includes the finest Laurent Perrier Rosé champagne.
You’re paying through the nose, but it’s worth splashing out for.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Tel: (02) 6907999. www. emiratespalace. com
Birthdays, leaving dos or any other special occasion.
Dhs399 with Moet & Chandon champagne, Dhs299 with wine and beer, Dhs222 without alcohol.
Top notch food and free-flowing champagne.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 11.30am to 3pm. Tel: (02) 6543000. www.fairmont. com
With the late start the terrace will be cool enough to enjoy properly. We’ve been waiting a few months for this one.
As the Yacht Club brunch finishes at 6pm, it drifts perfectly into an evening out.
The Dhs165 with unlimited a la carte food and drinks is cheap in our books.
A great way to spend an afternoon with friends in the fading sun.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, 2pm to 6pm. Tel: (02) 6666888. ichotelsgroup. com
Your usual brunching options, plus some fine Moroccan tagines and a live seafood cooking station.
Sofra’s a giant, spacious restaurant in the decadent Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri.
Anyone and everyone. There’s enough room for families and party people.
Dhs220 for unlimited wine and soft drinks – around average for Abu Dhabi’s brunching scene.
All-round excellence makes this one of our top spots.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, noon to 4pm. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.shangri-la. com
A good array of seafood and salads.
This is the city’s first revolving restaurant, and its lofty location makes for spectacular views.
A memorable brunch in a truly unusual restaurant.
Dhs220 with wine. It’s slap bang in the middle of Abu Dhabi’s brunch price range.
New chef Alain Roin has improved the quality no end. One to watch.
Le Royal Méridien, Khalifah Street, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 3pm. Tel: (02) 6742020. www. ichotelsgroup.com
BEST FOR
PRICE
JANUARY 2011 WHAT’S ON 83
HOT ON HEteEsLPaSlace THE Em ira
BRUNCHES
11 Etoiles, , Sheraton 12 Flavours oft 13 Dine, Al éridien rie, Le M 14 La Brasse Royal Méridien lly’s, Le ei ’R O PJ 15
Pearls & Caviar
PRICE ATMOSPHERE WHAT’S ON FOOD SAYS...
6 7
8
Ginger
9
One To One
10
INFOLOCATION
Jing Asia
BEST FOR
PRICE
A healthy bustle of brunchers.
A boatload of fish awaits consumption at the P&C buffet.
Pearls & Caviar’s waterfront location has great views of the Grand Mosque.
Seafood fanatics.
Dhs299 with champagne, Dhs199 with other drinks. On the upper end of the scale, but bubbly’s included in the bill.
The aromas of barbecued meats and the Latino beats from the live band make for a merry vibe.
On arrival, you’re handed a twosided card. Turn it to green to keep the meat coming, turn it to red when you’re ready to explode.
The InterCon is a bit out on a limb, but great bars such as Yacht Club and Belgian Café should keep you from wanting to head elsewhere.
Ravenous carnivores.
This family brunch is busy with multigenerations tucking into the buffet.
An international buffet, plus barbecue. Something for everyone.
The everpopular Park Rotana. And each table of four gets a free massage in the hotel spa. Result.
A lot of people’s favourite brunch, so be sure to book ahead.
Three fine restaurants stacked on top of each other with three different cuisines.
Lively, with busy cooking stations and tables of groups.
A lovely outdoor area for brunch in the sun.
Pearls & Caviar
Chamas
Elements
Jing Asia
84 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
See you on the terrace.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 1pm to 4pm. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.shangrila.com
Dhs235 or Dhs295 with free-flowing Caipirinhas to get you in the South American mood.
A superb brunch you’ll want to keep coming back to.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, 1pm to 3pm. Tel: (02) 6666888. www. ichotelsgroup. com
A family feast that leaves you money in the bank. There’s face painting and balloon modelling for the children, too.
Dhs150, including two house beverages.
Who doesn’t love a free massage after lunch?
Park Rotana, Al Salam Street, Abu Dhabi, 12pm to 4pm. Tel: (02) 6573333. www. rotana.com
We’re still waiting for signposts to One To One hotel, as its backstreet location makes it a nightmare to find.
A party that won’t leave you broke.
Dhs200 with alcohol and Dhs140 without. Pleasantly affordable.
One of the most popular brunches in town.
One To One Hotel, Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi, noon to 3pm. Tel: (02) 4952000. www. onetoonehotels. com
On Yas Island, so plenty of choice for post-food drinks.
It’s international with an Asian twist, so expect spicy Thai flavours and plenty of dim sum.
Dhs125 without alcohol or Dhs170 with house beverages. Half price for children aged six to 12.
Well-priced and a nice vibe. Worthy of a top ten spot.
Crowne Plaza, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi12.30pm to 3.30pm. Tel: (02) 6563053. www.www. ichotelsgroup. com
OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 84
THE HOT LIST SPAS
Zen Spa
THERAPISTS
1
MENU
THE SPA
MARCH 2010 WHAT’S ON 87 PRICE
The staff, who mostly hail from Thailand, are true geniuses in the art of pampering.
Extremely luxurious. Treatments such as Journey To The Island Of Java and Gateway To Arabia are as opulent as they sound.
This palatial spa is so big it has its own wing of the Emirates Palace all to itself.
You wouldn’t expect a sevenstar hotel spa to be cheap and it isn’t. Most of the treatments come in around the Dhs1,000 mark.
Professional and welcoming, they’re all guaranteed to make your experience as pleasant as possible.
From Filipino Hilot massages to caviar facials, it’s extensive to say the least.
Imagine a small temple hidden in the Himalayas – that’s what the Chi Spa’s rooms resemble.
They aim to please by inquiring whether the temperature of the room and the music being played is to your liking.
Almost every month a new, innovative treatment is added.
4
They’re as friendly and skilful a group of therapists as you’ll find anywhere in the UAE.
5
Therapist Rinti showed us around the vast spa then got to work on our knots.
Anantara
2
Chi Spa
3
Zen Spa
Anantara Spa, Qasr Al Sarab
ESPA
THE DADDIES OF THE HEALTH AND LEISURE SCENE
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
Chi Spa
INFO
We’re big fans of the diamond facial, which will knock years off.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (02) 6909000. www. emiratespalace. com
Far from cheap, but worth the extra expense.
The spa has one of the best Jacuzzis in the capital.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.shangri-la. com
The spa’s located in the basement of the Beach Rotana. But it’s so large and spacious you won’t feel you’re underground.
It’s a five-star hotel, but prices aren’t excessive. For example, the aromatherapy massage costs Dhs348 for an hour.
Try the signature treatment – stress and knots will disappear.
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (02) 6979000. www.rotana.com
All your usual massages, plus some unusual ones thrown in, such as exfoliating sand baths and water-based Vichy spas.
The views from the windows of the undulating dunes of the Liwa Desert add to the relaxation quotient of your therapy.
Expensive, but not unreasonably so.
Another reason to visit this amazing desert retreat.
Qasr Al Sarab, Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi 10am to 10pm. Tel: (02) 8862088. www.qasralsarab. anantara.com
Luxurious and extensive, with all ESPA products. Great for both quick fixes and day-long pampering.
Stunning views of Yas Marina from the outdoor loungers, and trackside seating in the men’s relaxation lounge.
Not bad, considering the quality of venue, products and service.
It's Yas Island's newest and finest spa.
ESPA, Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (02) 6560862. www.theyashotel. com
JANUARY 2011 OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S WHAT’S ON ON 87 87
HOT ON E HxuEryEMLenS’s Spa, THge Lu
11 Man/A l Marina Mal ub & Spa, lth Cl ea H ul So 12 Body & ach Hotel Al Raha Be urist Day Spa, To tic is ol H 13 Crystal Club Area a Wellness Sp 14 Sharinis nd Millennium ra G a, Sp 15 Zayna Al Wahda
SPAS
ESPA
THERAPISTS
6
The Spa
7 8 9
Eden Spa
10
Serenity Spa
THE SPA
PRICE
A multinational team of therapists, hailing from as far a field as Zimbabwe and Nepal.
The separate menus for men and women are both packed with imaginative treatment options.
They haven’t gone overboard with the décor. It’s sparse and functional.
We’d say it was mid-range.
Very sweet and full of knowledge.
A suitably large menu to match the capital’s biggest health club and spa.
Ten treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, steam room and hydrotherapy area. Big and beautiful.
The all-female staff won’t interrupt you with small talk. You’re free to snooze through your therapy if you like.
A wide-ranging menu, including waxing, manicures and luxurious packages.
They’re all knowledgeable, but therapist Fe has been there for 15 years and is a master in knot busting.
They’re all very serious about making sure you get the right treatment for you.
Zayna Spa
Hiltonia Health Club & Spa
MENU
The Spa
88 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
WHAT’S ON SAYS...
INFO
It will need to fight to keep customers now ESPA at Yas Hotel has opened...
Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (02) 6562000. www.radissonblu. com
Above average, especially for the rituals, but the quality of treatment is very high.
We had to check this place out. Read our review on page 47.
Grand Millennium Al Wadha, Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Al Wahda Complex, Abu Dhabi, 9am to 10pm,. Tel: (02) 4439999. www. millenniumhotels. com
Small and intimate with an Oriental themed décor. No complaints here.
Surprisingly affordable for a hotel spa.
Hiltonia is also home to one of the best beach clubs in the city.
Hiltonia Beach Club, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 9pm. Tel: (02) 6924324. www.hilton.com
With a spa, hammam and hair salon, it’s extensive to say the least.
Slightly dated, but pleasant enough. The huge relaxation pool is the centrepiece of the spa.
The Spa Prestige Moisturising Facial will set you back Dhs660. About mid-range for the capital.
Make time to relax by the pool after your spa. You won’t regret it.
Le Méridien, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, 9am to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6446666. www. starwoodhotels.com
We are big fans of the Aroma Massage, which combines body exfoliation and a deep tissue massage.
Located on the mezzanine floor above a shop with separate rooms for facials, massages, Moroccan baths and hairstyling.
Treatments are generally cheaper than the hotel equivalent. Dhs450 for the 90-minute Aroma Massage is cheap as chips.
Undoubtedly the best femaleonly spa in the capital.
Serenity Spa, above Paris Gallery, Zayed The First Street, Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (02) 6678880. www.uae-parisgallery. com
OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 88
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Backchat with Helen Spearman
Deputy Editor Helen Spearman resolves to make 2011 your best year yet. The guilt-free way No doubt after reading our New Year, New You feature on page 21 you’re feeling steeled and inspired for the year ahead, filled with good intentions and plans to sort your life out in 2011. Us too. Various resolutions from the What’s On office include cutting back on the morning-after junk food, reading books of substance, starting a savings scheme, being better at keeping in touch with folks back home and finally putting some new tunes on the iPod. Perhaps you’ll
be throwing money at personal trainers, buying trolley-loads of lettuce and barely masking the nicotine-withdrawal rage. January might seem like a long month if this is your approach, each day tinged with the desire to have a KitKat and each episode of MasterChef ruined by that niggling feeling that you really ought to be miserable in gym gear somewhere. Personally speaking, the best resolution I ever made was to ‘take action’ and I can’t recommend it highly enough. All encompassing, this new motto made that year one of the most productive of my life. Shoes need re-heeling? Straight off to the cobbler. Car sounding dodgy? No more waiting for disaster to strike. I guess this could have also been known as the year of
‘not being so lazy’ but ‘take action’ sounds more positive. Rather than setting myself up to fail with a classic ‘lose 10kg’ type objective, taking action meant less crashing out on the sofa after work and more cajoling friends into a run, resulting in losing 12kg without really realising it. Smug? Moi? And rather than a tedious inventory of resolutions resembling a year-long to-do list, taking action was a bit more flexible so there wasn’t that inevitable guilt when a bad day was had. Little things like uploading photos, organising your computer desktop, writing a thank you email, trying a new class or sorting out kitchen cupboards all merrily fall into this category so you too can feel self-satisfied on a regular basis. We like self-satisfied. We spend enough time setting unrealistic goals and setting ourselves up for failure, feeling terrible and slumping back into old ways with alarming ease when it all goes wrong. Be kind to yourself this year. Go easy on the goals. Of course, it helps that the next 12 months in the UAE are set to be good ones, with the next issue of What’s On Abu Dhabi full of content solely on our capital. That’s us taking action, see? And each magazine will be packed with events, ideas and places for you to try, so you can take some action, too. No more old reliable, with so much happening in AD we’re encouraging you to break out of routine, explore our fair city and have some new experiences in fresh-faced places. You’ll be feeling smug in no time.
Don’t miss next month’s What’s On – Gourmet Abu Dhabi, the Gulf Bike Show and the city’s best salads 90 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2011
”relaxing spa treatments, fabulous food... I feel reborn.“
Relax with selected ‘his’ and ‘hers’ treatments in the world-renowned ESPA at The Yas Hotel, enjoy an elegant dinner in our award-winning seafood restaurant, Nautilus, and stay overnight in a luxurious Marina Deluxe Room. See ‘The Yas Hotel Island Escape for Two’ at www.TheYasHotel.com for full details.
From only AED 2,500* per couple. Part of the Winter Collection at The Yas Hotel. Operated by Aldar Hotels and Hospitality. *Prices exclusive of 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee. Terms and conditions apply.