editor's letter
As February unfolds, so does the spirit of adventure, indulgence, and celebration.
This issue of Rume Magazine is a passport to experiences that elevate the everyday, whether it’s a romantic escape, a thrilling ski adventure, or a deep dive into the world of fashion and gastronomy.
With Valentine's Day on the horizon, we take you through the most romantic destinations (p.4), where luxury meets intimacy in the most breathtaking settings. For those craving something a little different, Escape to Armenia (p.10) offers a glimpse into a winter wonderland that feels untouched by time. Our journey took us through pristine slopes and hidden retreats, where the crisp mountain air and untouched snow made every moment feel like a dream. From the warmth of a secluded chalet to the thrill of carving through powdery trails, Armenia proved to be a place full of surprises. The magic wasn’t just in the landscapes, but in the people, the traditions, and the sheer sense of discovery that came with exploring somewhere so beautifully unexpected. Dubai’s social scene is buzzing with new openings, and we’ve got front-row seats. From the much-anticipated Dubai Fashion Week (p.13), where the city cements its place as a global fashion capital, to the grand unveiling of J1 Beach (p.15), a vibrant new playground for sunseekers and trendsetters alike. Food lovers will
A beautiful weekend in Armenia
be delighted by our experience at Il Gattopardo (p.14), DIFC’s latest Italian gem that has already stolen our hearts and appetites. And if you’re looking for a touch of elegance on the water, our feature on Nara’s latest vessel (p.18) takes you on a journey of fine dining at sea, blending old-world charm with contemporary luxury. Finally, sports enthusiasts have reason to celebrate, as Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (p.20) is back, bringing worldclass action to the city once more. February is a month of movement, passion, and discovery. Whether you’re planning a getaway, seeking new experiences, or simply indulging in a love for luxury, this issue is packed with inspiration to make the most of the season.
Enjoy the read!
GREECE
Porto Zante
Located on a private stretch of beach in Zakynthos, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is one of Greece’s most exclusive luxury resorts. Each villa offers complete privacy, featuring a private infinity pool, personal butler service, and panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining in their villa, indulge in spa treatments by the water, or embark on private yacht excursions to Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves. portozante.com
ROMANTIC destinations
For couples seeking the perfect blend of privacy, destinations offer exclusive accommodations, world-class
MOZAMBIQUE
Kisawa Sanctuary
For couples seeking exclusivity and barefoot luxury, Kisawa Sanctuary on Benguerra Island is a dream destination. This ultra-luxurious beach retreat offers expansive private bungalows, each with a personal chef, direct beach access, and a dedicated wellness team. Whether snorkeling with manta rays, enjoying a sunset dhow cruise, or indulging in spa treatments inspired by local traditions, Kisawa ensures a deeply personal and romantic stay.
kisawasanctuary.com
ROMANTIC destinations
privacy, luxury, and breathtaking scenery, these world-class dining, and unforgettable experiences.
TUSCANY, ITALY
Borgo San Felice
For wine-loving couples, Borgo San Felice is the ultimate romantic escape. This Relais & Châteaux property is set in a beautifully restored medieval village in the heart of Tuscany’s Chianti region. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and olive groves, the estate offers elegant rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and exclusive wine tastings. borgosanfelice.com
SLOVENIA
Once a royal residence, this boutique lakeside hotel is an oasis of romance and tranquillity. Couples can explore the fairytale-like Bled Castle, row across the crystal-clear lake to the island’s iconic church, and indulge in gourmet cuisine while enjoying breathtaking alpine scenery. brdo.si
Vila Bled
Miavana by Time + Tide MADAGASCAR
This exclusive private island resort offers expansive villas with direct beach access, infinity pools, and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Couples can embark on romantic helicopter excursions, go snorkeling or diving in pristine coral reefs, or simply relax with Champagne on their villa’s private deck. The resort’s personalised service ensures that every experience is tailored to your desires, from gourmet beachside dining to guided nature walks with expert conservationists. miavana.com
PHILIPPINES
Nay Palad Hideaway
For a tropical paradise unlike any other, Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao offers an intimate, all-inclusive retreat set against a backdrop of lush greenery and white-sand beaches. The resort’s openair villas blend seamlessly with nature, creating a perfect balance of comfort and seclusion. The resort also provides a world-class spa, infinity pools, and activities like paddleboarding through crystal-clear waters. naypaladhideaway.com
Qualia QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA
Located on Hamilton Island, Qualia is a world-class retreat designed exclusively for adults, offering a secluded and serene atmosphere. Nestled in lush tropical surroundings with panoramic views of the Great Barrier Reef, this luxurious resort features private pavilions with infinity-edge pools and stunning ocean vistas. Couples can relax at the spa, embark on private sailing trips to Whitehaven Beach, or enjoy a helicopter ride over Heart Reef. With fine dining, impeccable service, and spectacular sunsets, Qualia is an intimate haven for romance, whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply seeking a dreamy getaway in one of Australia’s most picturesque locations. qualia.com.au
A brand we love Veuve Clicquot
When François Clicquot passed away in 1805, leaving his 27-yearold wife Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin with a small wine business, few could have predicted that this French widow would revolutionise the Champagne industry. In a time when women had limited rights, especially in business, Madame Clicquot’s determination and innovative spirit led her to create what would become one of the most prestigious Champagne houses in the world, Veuve Clicquot. Against all expectations, she convinced both her father and father-in-law to let her take control of the business. She partnered initially with Alexandre Fourneaux for four years
before assuming complete control of the company, demonstrating remarkable business acumen in an era when women were rarely found in positions of power.
Madame Clicquot’s greatest contribution to the Champagne industry came through her innovative riddling table invention. Before this breakthrough, Champagne was cloudy due to dead yeast settling at the bottom of bottles. Her table de remuage allowed for the collection of sediment behind the cork, resulting in the crystal-clear champagne we know today.
Madame Clicquot’s pursuit of excellence didn’t stop there. In 1810, she created the first recorded vintage Champagne, using grapes exclusively from that year’s harvest. She also revolutionised rosé Champagne by developing a new method of mixing red and white wines, replacing the previous practice of simply adding colouring. The iconic yellow label that adorns Veuve Clicquot bottles today was another of Madame Clicquot’s innovations,
chosen to distinguish her drier champagne from the sweeter varieties common at the time. This distinctive branding helped establish Veuve Clicquot as a symbol of luxury and refinement, a position it maintains over two centuries later. Her marketing prowess extended beyond just the label – she understood the importance of creating a complete luxury experience around her Champagne.
By focusing on excellence in every
from the quality of the wine to its presentation, she transformed Veuve Clicquot into a brand that became synonymous with celebration and sophistication. Even during the challenging times of the Napoleonic Wars, when European ports were blocked, she found innovative ways to ship her Champagne to new markets, particularly Russia, where it became the drink of choice for the aristocracy. This bold move not only saved her business but also established Veuve Clicquot as one of the first truly global luxury brands.
Today, Veuve Clicquot continues to honour its founder’s commitment to innovation and quality. The house’s Yellow Label blend, comprising approximately 700 different wines, requires exceptional precision to maintain consistency year after year. The premium La Grande Dame cuvée, named in honour of Madame Clicquot herself, represents the pinnacle of the house’s expertise, using primarily Pinot Noir grapes and aging for up to nine years.
The brand’s meticulous attention to detail extends from vine to bottle, with each step overseen by the Cellar Master, ensuring that every bottle meets the exacting standards set by the French widow who dared to dream of creating the perfect Champagne.
Interested to learn more? Watch Widow Clicquot on Netflix for further insights into Barbe-Nicole’s fascinating story. veuveclicquot.com
The magic of Armenia
Skip the crowded slopes of Europe and discover Armenia's unexpected winter charm
While the Alps and Aspen dominate winter holiday wishlists, Armenia quietly offers an alternative that combines exceptional skiing, serene mountain stays, and sophisticated city life - all without the premium price tag. This lesser-known destination, with its pristine slopes and authentic mountain culture, delivers an experience that feels both exclusive and accessible. The rise of Myler Mountain
Myler Mountain Resort has emerged as Armenia's premier skiing destination, redefining accessible luxury just a short flight from Dubai. Spanning
21 kilometres of expertly groomed slopes, the resort caters to all skill levels, from gentle beginners' runs to challenging black diamonds that rival European standards. Modern high-speed gondolas whisk skiers efficiently between runs, while four distinct mountain restaurants offer everything from quick slope-side bites to refined dining experiences. What sets Myler apart is its remarkable value proposition. Daily lift passes at USD 35 present a stark contrast to Aspen's USD 244, yet the experience remains premium. Unlike its busier neighbour Tsaghkadzor,
Myler maintains an uncrowded atmosphere that allows skiers to truly appreciate the mountain's natural beauty.
Luxury meets comfort at Chalet Myler, where skiin/ski-out access adds convenience to an already exceptional stay. The property offers a range of accommodations, from intimate studios perfect for couples to spacious family residences that feel like private mountain homes. Each space features thoughtful touches like private wellness facilities - think personal saunas and jacuzzis for post-ski relaxation. The contemporary interiors, crafted from local
CHALET MYLER
VELVET RESTAURANT
materials and enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows, create a seamless connection with the snowcovered landscape outside. Mountain serenity in Yeghegis
Away from the slopes, Elegis Village Resort in the quiet town of Yeghegis presents an intimate escape that captures the essence of Armenian mountain life. The resort's collection of snow-dusted cabins and glass-walled rooms seems to float above the winter landscape, each positioned to maximise views of the surrounding peaks. The heated infinity pool becomes particularly magical at dusk, when steam rises into the crisp mountain air and stars begin to appear above.
This contrast of warm water and cold air creates an almost otherworldly experience, especially after a fresh snowfall. Inside, the main lodge serves as the heart of the resort, where the smell of homecooked Armenian cuisine fills the air each evening. What makes dining at Elegis special is its
authenticity - each meal is prepared by a local grandmother who prepares hearty stews, fresh-baked lavash bread, and local cheeses. The resort's wine selection, curated from Armenian vineyards, offers an excellent introduction to the country's emerging wine scene.
A suspended viewing net in the Panoramic Room offers an adventurous way to experience the landscape, hovering above the snow-covered valley below.
CHALET MYLER
ELEGIS POOL
PANORAMIC ROOM
ELEGIS VILLAGE RESORT
Yerevan's winter sophistication Armenia's capital provides a vibrant counterpoint to the mountain tranquility. Yerevan balances its Soviet architectural heritage with a rapidly evolving contemporary culture, particularly evident in its emerging neighbourhoods. Como restaurant has quickly established itself as a culinary destination, with a menu that would feel at home in Milan or Rome. The handmade pasta deserves special mention - try the cheesy truflle ravioli or the meatballs, both executed with precision.
Minas Cocktail Room elevates Yerevan's drinking culture with skilled mixology and carefully curated music. The bar team creates both classical cocktails and innovative concoctions using local ingredients, including Armenian brandies and house-made infusions. The space fills with a mix of locals and visitors, creating an energetic yet
intimate atmosphere.
The Cascade Complex remains one of Yerevan's most striking architectural features, its multiple levels rising like a modernist interpretation of a traditional Armenian church. The terraces offer spectacular views across the city to Mount Ararat, particularly beautiful during winter sunsets when the snowcovered peak glows pink and orange. Inside, the Cafesjian Center for the Arts houses an impressive collection of contemporary works, making it equally rewarding to visit on clear or cloudy days. Armenia presents a winter experience that feels genuinely distinctive, where value doesn't compromise quality and authenticity enhances rather than inhibits luxury. From Myler's slopes to Yerevan's energy, it offers the rare pleasure of discovering somewhere that exceeds expectations while remaining refreshingly genuine.
The new Courtyard by Marriott serves as an ideal base, its modern design and central location placing guests in the heart of the city's most dynamic district.
GIA, COURTYARD YEREVAN
COURTYARD YEREVAN CASCADE
COMO
MINAS COCKTAIL ROOM
DUBAI FASHION WEEK
Dubai Fashion Week is back, and with it comes a renewed sense of energy, creativity, and global recognition. From 1 to 6 February 2025, the city will play host to some of the most exciting names in fashion, reaffirming its position on the international style map.
Co-founded by Dubai Design District (d3) and the Arab Fashion Council, DFW has swiftly become a fixture on the global fashion calendar, setting trends and attracting top-tier designers, buyers, and industry insiders from across the world.
The Autumn/Winter 202526 edition will open with a powerful showcase of homegrown talent, proving that Dubai is not just a destination for fashion but a creator of it.
Designers such as Zeena Zaki, Manel, and Angelo Estera will take centre stage alongside Indonesia’s Toton by Makeover, setting the tone for a week of innovation and sartorial excellence. The schedule is packed with bold debuts
and familiar names, including Australian label Paolo Sebastian making history as the first designer from the country to present at DFW, and Lebanon’s Antoine Kareh bringing his signature elegance to the runway. DFW members like BLSSD, Dima Ayad, Lama Jouni, Mrs Keepa, and Michael Cinco will return with their latest collections, while Istanbul-based Les Benjamins debuts as the first-ever Correspondent Member. The grand finale on 6 February will see none other than Manish Malhotra close the week in spectacular fashion.
Beyond the runway, the event extends into the city with exclusive gatherings, networking events, and private dinners. A curated Buyers Programme from 3 to 5 February will bring industry leaders from the UK, Italy, the US, Germany, and India to Dubai Design District, offering designers a unique opportunity to present their work in a more intimate setting.
Meanwhile, brands will host events that blur the line between business and glamour, with highlights including a Luisa Via Roma dinner, Etoile Boutique’s private showcase, and the launch of the Mirina Rinaldi x Georges Chakra collection.
As the region’s fashion capital, Dubai continues to push boundaries, not just in style but in influence.
The first-ever Fashion Futures Dubai, hosted by Vogue Business in partnership with d3, will
wrap up the week with discussions on the future of luxury, technology, and sustainability in fashion. With its distinctive blend of homegrown talent, international prestige, and a bold outlook on what comes next, Dubai Fashion Week 2025 is set to leave its mark on the industry once again.
Il Gattopardo
How this charming ICD Brookfield Place hotspot is elevating Italian cuisine in DIFC
Set on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place, Il Gattopardo Dubai captured the city’s attention for its sweeping views and elegant art deco design, creating an inviting space for a refined dining experience. The space features floor-to-ceiling windows stretching to the level above, bathing the restaurant in natural light during the day and offering twinkling city views at night. With a rich colour palette of deep reds and blues and geometric art adorning the walls, the open layout manages to retain an intimate vibe thanks to cosy table arrangements.
Our evening began at Bar des Pres, located on the same floor, where we enjoyed a short but delightful stop for coffee-infused cocktails. Moving to the main restaurant, we started with three exceptional appetisers.
The carpaccio, possibly the best we’ve had in Dubai, stood out for its delicate cut and perfect pairing with balsamic vinegar. The pear salad with spinach and gorgonzola was enjoyable, though not a standout, while the truffle pizza impressed with its bold flavour and ideal starter size.
For the mains, we opted for the merluzzo, a roasted cod dish paired with wild mushrooms, chestnuts, butternut squash, and thymesage brown butter.
The dish offered winter comfort food with warming and hearty flavours without feeling overly heavy. The cod was cooked to perfection and featured a
satisfyingly crispy skin. Two pasta dishes followed: the agnolotti, featuring stracciatella-filled pasta pillows in a roasted tomato cream, and the roasted pumpkin ravioli.
The latter stole the show with its creamy pumpkin filling that burst in the mouth, complemented by a light parmesan cream and the crunch of macadamia and pumpkin seeds.
To end the meal on a sweet note, the restaurant presented two beautifully crafted desserts.
The classic tiramisu arrived in a generously sized portion, layered with velvety mascarpone and delicately soaked sponge, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. The crème brûlée was elegantly paired with pistachio ice cream, its smooth, caramelised top giving way to a creamy custard beneath. The ice cream added a nutty, refreshing contrast to the dessert, creating a memorable finale to our dining experience.
Il Gattopardo Dubai combines elegance, flavour, and a vibrant atmosphere to elevate fine dining in DIFC. The art deco interiors, vibrant yet cosy atmosphere, and expertly crafted Italian dishes make it a welcome addition to DIFC’s competitive dining scene. Whether for a special occasion or an indulgent evening out, this high-rise haven is sure to leave a lasting impression.
@gattopardodubai
BGigi Rigolatto
An iconic name along the Côte d’Azur, Gigi Rigolatto brings its signature Riviera chic. The setting is elegant yet inviting, with sprawling terraces, plush sunbeds, and a menu filled with indulgent pastas, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. @gigi_beach_dubai
Baoli is where highenergy dining meets opulent beachside glamour. The menu takes inspiration from Asia and the Mediterranean, featuring innovative sushi, grilled meats, and decadent sharing plates. As the sun dips, expect a shift into a lively, DJ-led party scene.
@baoli.dubai
Baoli
African Queen
With a legacy built in the French Riviera, African Queen is a storied dining institution now reimagined for Dubai. The menu is a rich fusion of French-Mediterranean influences, featuring bold North African influences. The ambience is stylish yet relaxed, ideal for leisurely lunches or vibrant sunset gatherings. @africanqueen_dubai
Chouchou
Chouchou channels the effortless charm of Parisian beach culture, offering a playful yet polished escape. French classics are reinterpreted with a light, summery touch – think vibrant tartares, perfectly crisp frites, and indulgent pastries. It’s the perfect spot to embrace a long, leisurely afternoon.
@chouchou.dubai
Kaimana Beach
Inspired by the laid-back spirit of the Pacific, Kaimana Beach is where tropical vibes meet barefoot luxury. The aesthetic is natural and inviting, with warm woods, rattan accents, and lush greenery. The menu highlights fresh island flavours, featuring poke bowls, grilled fish, and exotic fruit-driven cocktails.
@kaimanabeachdubai
Lunico
A refined yet welcoming seaside escape, Lunico takes cues from the Mediterranean. Expect a curated menu of Italian and Spanish influences, with seafood-heavy plates, fragrant herbs, and sunripened ingredients taking centre stage.
@lunico_ae
Sakhalin
A tribute to the finest flavours of the sea, Sakhalin brings Russian haute cuisine to the waterfront. The menu features luxurious shellfish platters, caviar-infused creations, and other delicately prepared fish dishes.
@sakhalin.dubai
Gitano
A slice of Tulum in Dubai, Gitano blends bohemian spirit with understated luxury. This beachfront outpost mirrors its Mexican origins, offering woodfired dishes, punchy mezcal cocktails, and an ambience that transitions seamlessly from daytime relaxation to sultry, music-driven evenings. @gitano.dubai
La Baia
Capturing the essence of the Italian Riviera, La Baia is all about sunsoaked afternoons, flowing spritzes, and coastal cuisine. Whether lounging with a chilled glass of Vermentino or indulging in a leisurely meal, La Baia brings an effortless dolce vita vibe to the shores of J1 Beach.
@labaia.dubai
Sirene Beach by Gaia
Blending Mediterranean living with relaxed seaside charm, Sirene Beach by Gaia brings the much-loved Greek hotspot to J1. With fresh seafood, bright citrus flavours, and a breezy aesthetic that channels the Aegean, and a menu that champions simplicity and quality, it’s a sophisticated spot to unwind by the sea.
@sirene_dxb
Ninive Beach
A natural extension of the acclaimed Ninive restaurant, this beachside retreat embraces the flavours and aesthetics of the Middle East. Ornate yet contemporary, it offers a relaxed take on Levantine hospitality with sharingstyle dishes, fresh grilled meats, and fragrant spice blends.
@ninivebeachdubai
NARA on the sea
Setting a new standard for dining experiences in Dubai, the Nara on the Sea luxury dhow cruise Dubai brings the expertise of luxury desert dining brand Sonara to the city’s iconic waterways. Custombuilt to host up to 90 guests across two meticulously designed decks, this contemporary vessel reimagines traditional dhow cruising with an emphasis on culinary excellence and refined ambience.
Setting sail from Dubai Festival City harbour, the Nara on the Sea luxury dhow cruise Dubai offers two carefully curated routes. The heritage journey, available Mondays and Wednesdays, explores the traditional charm of Old Dubai,
while the contemporary path, operating Thursday through Sunday, showcases the modern skyline including the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal waterfall bridge.
Under the guidance of French chef Gregory Khellouf, the culinary programme presents two distinct dining experiences. The sunset cruise, a two-hour journey, features sophisticated canapés including sumac-spiced salmon toast and Middle Eastern-inspired panipuri filled with guacamole.
Evening dinner cruises elevate the experience with a sharing-style menu served over two and a half hours. Guests can savour artichoke tart with bergamot and white truffle
honey, monkfish in tomato-caper sauce, and braised veal with harissa breadcrumbs. The meal concludes with a pistachio dacquoise, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to blend fine dining techniques with regional influences.
The vessel’s design reflects modern luxury while honoring traditional dhow architecture. Featuring an open bar and professional kitchen, the interiors create intimate dining spaces with uninterrupted views of Dubai’s waterfront.
The journey takes in natural wonders like the Ras Al Khor mangroves alongside architectural marvels, offering unique perspectives of the city’s evolution.
The sunset package is priced at AED 390 per adult and AED 310 for children (upper deck only), and runs from 4pm to 6pm, while the evening dinner experience is AED 690 for adults and AED 550 for children (upper deck) or AED 590 for adults and AED 470 for children (lower deck), running 8pm to 10pm. Whether chosen for special celebrations or an elevated evening experience, Nara on the Sea represents a sophisticated addition to Dubai’s dining landscape, offering a fresh perspective on waterfront dining and the city’s iconic views. nara.ae/lady-nara, @naraonthesea
Swing into action
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
return from 16 February to 1 March 2025, bringing world-class tennis action to the city. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the women’s tournament, this year’s event promises an exceptional lineup, including World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka, five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Świątek, and defending champion Jasmine Paolini.
The competition begins with the WTA 1000 event from 16 to 22 February, showcasing some of the biggest names in women’s tennis. The ATP 500 event follows from 24 February to 1 March, with top-ranked stars like Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev set to compete. Held at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, the tournament offers a dynamic mix of elite-level tennis, electric crowds, and a buzzing atmosphere. Fans can expect thrilling matches and the chance to see tennis greats up close, while premium hospitality options elevate the experience with exclusive seating and luxury amenities.
As one of the standout sporting events in the region, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships continue to reinforce the city’s reputation as a premier international sports destination. dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com
