May 2015 | Issue # 193 w w w. b a z a a r. t o w n
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About the Cover: Passionate about traveling and exploring, Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan’s return from Antarctica was mind-blowing. The scenery and adorable animals were reason enough for us to gush over the images she’d sent us. But one image stood out from all the rest, a picture so stunning we couldn’t believe it wasn’t digitally altered. Taken at Deception Island Caldera with a simple Canon point and shoot, it encapsulates the true essence of what this gorgeous – seldom-explored – continent stands for: the harsh, cold beauty of life. Flip through to read all about Arwa’s adventure and marvel at the undisturbed lives of the Antarctic wildlife and all the continent’s glory.
Last month the MIT Pan Arab Conference was held here in Kuwait alongside the Arab Startup Competition. Both were attended by hundreds of people from around the world. There was also the Alnowair TWR Conference, attended by hundreds of people as well. Then there was the Digital Content Strategy Workshop organized by Code Inc. And the fabulous play Ihsibha Ghair. And there was almost a concert by Akon (but, let's not get into that). And let's not forget the Gulf Jazz Festival that was at the Radisson Blu. There were also several art exhibitions spread out over the month including one by the super talented Abdulla Al Awadi. Shaheed Park officially opened (you can read more about it in this issue). There was a piano recital by the very famous Spanish pianist Pablo Galdo. Anderson Silva the infamous UFC champion passed by for the opening of Gold's Gym. And a lot more that I've either forgotten about, or simply didn't know about. Not to mention, in the first week of May we have superstars Nancy Ajram and Mohamad Hamaki performing at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa.
The bazaar team...
And still, people have the gall to moan and complain all the time about there being nothing to do in Kuwait…sigh.
Staff Writer/Online Media
That said, let’s look on the bright side, literally, as the weather is starting to gear towards summer. The ACs are starting to get serviced and are whirring back to life after their winter vacation. I know we (and our cars) have all had enough dust and rain downpours to last a lifetime, right? Generally, the first rule of getting ready for summer is getting into shape, hitting the gym and becoming fit and healthy. We simply wouldn’t be bazaar if we didn’t have you covered. In this month’s issue we talk Truth Or Dare with Kuwait’s human flagpole, Fawaz Al-Qanae about his truly inspirational story of fitness and strength. We take a look at the contortionist friendly Yoga scene that exists in K-Town with ‘The Rise Of Yoga In Kuwait’, and we tried an alternative exercise method for you when we explored a new approach to fitness with the Electrical Muscle Stimulation workout, courtesy of 20seven Fitness. Believe us when we tell you, it works, and we still have the workout pains to prove it, so please be gentle.
Staff Writer
The 2nd rule of summer preparation is planning the perfect summer holiday. While Kuwait is plenty hot enough, it’s also home, and who wants to vacation in their own back yard? So in honor of that, we travel across to beautiful Brazil to bring you our interview with Tamer Emam, Founder and Head of Concierge at Brazilis Traveler. His team of experts on all things Brazil and South America will teach you how to commune in the Amazon’s rainforest and how to SAMBA during the Brazilian Carnival – anything to make your South American experience an unforgettable one! Finally, in total contrast to last month’s stunning sun-drenched Tanzania story, we follow Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan to Antarctica where she takes part in the 2041 expedition, not only to see the beautiful snow driven landscapes, stunning wildlife and experience the frosty fresh air, but to learn about the environment and how we can help to preserve it for the future. Travel really is good for the mind, it makes you think and want to make changes. We hope you find this adventure as wondrous and inspirational as we did.
Happy reading! Ahmed El-Adly
Boss
Syndicates and Sources
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Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek Tribune Media Services USA Today Variety News Service Washington Post
Operations Rebecca Sweetman Tim Burns
Business Development Ihab Mokalled
Design Padmini Chandrasekaran
Printing
Staff Writer/Coordinator
British Industries for Printing and Packaging
Yasmine El Charif
members of:
Sarah O. Wali Amira Haroun Brook McClurg
Communications Hala Y. Sharara
Editor
w w w. b p aw w. c o m No one likes to be dumped;
recycle me, please.
The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).
A. Al-Duaij
Contributing Writers Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan Loaay Ahmed Lynda Higgs Mike Campbell Reem Algharabally Shabana H Shaikh Dr. Susannah J. Schuilenberg Yasmine Dalloul
Contributing Photographers Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan Lynda Higgs
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ELIE TAHARI +965 2530 9618
360 MALL, LEVEL 1
INDEX MAY '15
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BRAZILIS TRAVELER
AZUMAMI SUSHI
ALL THINGS MOCHI
YOGA IN KUWAIT
FITNESS FREAK Q8
If you're ever planning a trip to South America but you don’t know how to begin planning for it, check out our interview with Tamer Emam, Founder, Head of Concierge at Brazilis Traveler. His team of experts will tailor the perfect itinerary for you to make your South American experience an unforgettable one!
If you’re in the mood for contemporary Japanese fare in the heart of the city, then head to Azumami Sushi in Dar Al-Awadhi. Founded and managed by huge lovers of Japanese cuisine, Azumami Sushi’s take on the classic and the modern will leave your taste buds tantalized.
Our May fashionality celebrates the world’s cultures in the most stylish of ways. Founder of All Things Mochi, Ayah Tabari sees inspiration in the world, and this is most visible in her choice of utilizing embroidered fabrics from exotic lands. Don’t miss our designer interview, and check out the brand’s latest Palestine collection.
We’re all aware about the rise of Yoga in Kuwait. If you’re thinking of taking up this peaceful practice but you don’t know where or how to begin, Reem Algharabally uncovers Kuwait’s hidden, and not so hidden, destinations. From pop-up classes to well established centers, you can practice Yoga on any budget in Kuwait.
They call him a human flagpole, a freakish force of nature that is physically able to attach and climb the most random of structures around town. Fawaz Al Qanae is indeed a force to be reckoned with, but he is no oddity. Learn more about his incredible story of transformation in Truth or Dare.
Al Shaheed Park, pg 39
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AL SHAHEED PARK
A STUDY IN WHITE
A leisurely stroll that takes you away from Kuwait City’s hustle and bustle, a visit to Al Shaheed Park offers visitors a truly wonderful escape in the heart of the city. Kuwait’s citizens are offered the opportunity to rightfully interact with the city’s public spaces, experiencing land, history and culture in one space.
Traveling the unbeaten path is a challenge Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan is always willing to take. She’s journeyed into the depths of the Southern Hemisphere and found her way to Antarctica as part of the 2041 Expedition and the first Kuwaiti. We have the full story in up close and personal.
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MADEENAH
MAU JEWELRY
20SEVEN FITNESS
KARE Q8
BOOKWORMS
Walking in a driving-oriented city can be tricky. But with the lovely ladies at Madeenah, it was a breeze. Providing fun and educational walks, we get to fall in love with this city as though it were our first time here. Join them for a brisk Saturday walk full of hidden gems.
Minimalism is all the rage this season – and every other season if we’re completely honest – and MAU is the perfect embodiment of minimalistic panache. Created by the fabulous Argentine-American Marianna Maurer, we learn all about the intricacies of architectural structures and jewelry, now officially in Kuwait!
Do you find yourself in a workout rut? Check out 20Seven Fitness’ latest technology! Taking just twenty minutes from your day, twice a week – you’ll be summer ready in no time! Using EMS technology, your muscles will be worked twice as hard. Trust us, we still feel the burn.
With Kare Q8’s extensive kitten feeding workshops, we learned all about handling abandoned kitties with the care that they need. If you’re thinking of adopting a kitten, or wish to progress animal welfare in Kuwait, look up Kare Q8 to speak to one of their reps for all the procedures and care requirements needed.
While 2015 marks the 150th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland, we explore the parallels of an incredible story and escapism. Along with two other books, we discover that our main characters have a serious case of the “mundanes.” The remedy you might ask? To escape their reality and into another world entirely.
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what's on? INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY With Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah Date: May 15, 2915, 4:00 pm-10:00 pm Location: Amricani Cultural Center To celebrate this year’s International Museum Day, Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah invites you all to join them at the Amricani Cultural Center for a fun-filled day of activities and cultural events. The annual theme for International Museum Day revolves around sustainability, and museums around the country will come together for a sustainable society. On this day, expect to see participating exhibitions by fellow museums in Kuwait, like The Sultan Gallery and Dar Al Funoon. The planned activities will engage the public in highlighting the importance of museum institutions that serve society and its development, especially raising awareness about the need for a society that is less wasteful and more cooperative in using resources in a way that respects living systems. The event will also feature musical acts, artistic activities as well a dedicated area for local businesses and vendors. Don’t miss it! From the moment you read this post, start saving up your recyclable materials like bottle caps and nespresso capsules and join the DAI team on May 15th in creating a beautiful mosaic that commemorates this special day! Book and clothing donations are also accepted and will be donated to charity. For more information, visit www.darmuseum.org.kw, call 2240 0992 and you can follow them on Instagram @Dai_Kuwait.
THE LIVING YOGA FESTIVAL Date: May 29, 2015 Location: Masaha 13, Street 5, Shuwaikh Industrial The Living Yoga Festival 2015 held at Masaha 13’s beautiful warehouse space in Shuwaikh, is a unique event in Kuwait combining the practice of yoga with art, music and community. It brings Jivamukti yoga for the first time ever to Kuwait with all proceeds donated to the animal welfare charity KARU Q8. Sydney-based advanced certified Jivamukti teacher Chris Johns will lead the class through the vigorous, inspiring sequencing distinct to the Jivamukti Yoga method. Come prepared for an upbeat session to an eclectic soundtrack featuring the stars of the Kuwaiti electronic and fusion music scene. This workshop is physically challenging, but is open to all levels of practice. Prerequisites are a BYO yoga mat, a basic familiarity with yoga, and good physical health. There will be more than a few surprises in the postworkshop event that will include live music, projection art, vegan treats and a yoga diwaniya where you can meet and chat to local yoga teachers. Gather up your friends, your yoga mats and come down for an evening that will feed your body, mind and soul. Register at www.livingyogakw.com or follow them on Instagram @jivamukti_yoga_kuwait and Jivamukti Yoga Kuwait on Facebook for news, images and updates from the team.
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what’s trending As much as we work our hardest to give you one rocking print issue after the other, we’re socially active (or try our best to be, we are bazaar humans after all) and we love it! Find us online: It makes our day when we see your tweets/mentions/likes/comments/shares about your favorite features and more. facebook.com/bazaarmagazine
what: @futureboheme info: Modern style with a bohemian heart. editor’s note: Shop via Whatsapp or website!
what: @beautifuldestinations info: Wanderlust at its finest. editor’s note: Tickets are (sadly) not included.
what: @20sevenkw info: EMS training by pros in Kuwait. editor’s note: All it takes is 20 mins! 22
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what: @Healthy_Feast info: Healthy dining concept. editor’s note: It’s fresh, local, organic AND delish!
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what: @Q8_architecture_Interiors info: Design inspiration on Instagram. editor’s note: Showcasing local work!
what: @mintandcobeautyspa info: Fabulous new salon in Jabriya! editor’s note: Call 9665 9774 for appointments.
what: @nourikam info: A gorgeous gallery of street photography. editor’s note: Great inspiration to explore your city.
CAVALLI
truth or dare
FITNESS FREAK Q8 Fawaz Al-Qanae by bazaar staff
They call him Kuwait’s human flagpole, a freakish force of nature that is physically able to attach and climb the most random of structures around town. Fawaz Al-Qanae is indeed a force to be reckoned with, but he is no oddity. He’s totally entitled to demonstrate his hardly earned strength. The 37-year-old ex-banker/auditor turned Personal Trainer and Gym Owner doesn’t mind showing off his incredible ability. He first became interested in fitness back in 2008 when a medical diagnosis of three bulging discs temporary limited the now Calisthenics expert to using a cane to get around town. Rather than wallow in misery, Fawaz channeled his frustration into making a conscious, long-term decision to become stronger. Initially weighing in at 105 kg, Fawaz decided to master his own body movement through Calisthenics and bodyweight training. He was intrigued by the notion of progression; from yielding control of a cane, to mastering his own body movement. He said, “I believed that I had no business trying to master heavy weights if I could not control my own bodyweight.” Today, a quick Instagram search of his account @fitnessfreakq8 will stun the laziest couch potato. Fawaz’s movements are artistic, masterful and extremely well thought out. Once you get over your envy of his slim silhouette, you’ll instantly want to turn on your designated fitness app and start moving. Fawaz did reach his target, he is now cane-less and his proud movements show admirable strength. Today, Fawaz utilizes his strong social media presence, along with his newly yet hardly-earned knowledge to motivate his followers. His story purely communicates the notion that anyone is capable of doing anything — you just need to make a decision. “Deciding is the hardest step,” he told bazaar. No decision is made without accepting the commitment and challenges that go along with maintaining and adhering to any given decision. We always say that ‘it’s easier said than done,’ but Fawaz believes that acknowledging the difficulties is key. He explained, “Anyone could workout for an hour a day, but it’s the remaining 23 hours that we always struggle with. I would say that paying attention to external and cultural influences would factor into your decision to stick to a healthy diet. At the end of the day, every individual’s lifestyle is different, and you always need to find a system that works. Take baby steps, like anything in life, this lifestyle is a habit built over time.” In turning his life around, Fawaz is giving back to the local community by spreading his 24
knowledge through opening a new gym with a fantastic team. Named ‘The Forge,’ the gym will focus on all aspects of a healthy lifestyle and will also offer rehabilitation, strength, conditioning, nutrition, gymnastics and calisthenics services. He concluded, “Don’t let anyone tell you that it is too late or that anything is impossible. Work hard and stay humble. Believe in yourself, as that is the first step toward success.” How would your mother describe you in one word? Restless. How would you describe your mother in one word? Proud. What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked? Do I Photoshop my pictures? What is your theme song? “Lux Aeterna”, Requiem For A Dream. What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? Handstand. Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location? Swiss Alps. What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind? “I am the wisest man alive; for I know one thing, and that is that I know nothing.” –Socrates.
What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in? Wolf. What do you miss about your childhood? Fearlessness. If you could change your name, what would you change it to? I would not change it. Describe your handshake in one word? Relaxed. What is the toughest part of your character? Stubbornness. Who is your favorite historical figure? Cleisthenes. What in the world do you least desire? War. What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place? Understanding. Why do you think most girls/guys like you? Not sure. Finish this sentence: “Happiness is (a thing called)…” Being content. If you’re looking to get motivated about your health, or have any questions to ask Fawaz, follow him on Instagram @fitnessfreakq8.
ADOLFO
THE ROLLER GIRLS OF CAIRO by bazaar staff
Roller derby is a contact sport originating from America in the 1930’s, played between 2 teams, each team having 5 members. Both teams go around the track in the same direction, the idea being that each team's designated “jammer” attempts to get the highest score by lapping the members of the opposite team, while being hindered by that team on their way around. And as the name suggests, they play on roller skates. Deep in the heart of Cairo, Egypt, ‘The CaiRollers’ are Egypt's first and only known roller derby team…and they consist exclusively of women. Since the revival of roller derby in the early 2000s, it became an all-woman, female organized sport. It started to branch outside of America in around 2006 to various other countries, including Dubai, Singapore and Europe, where there are now around 1,200 amateur leagues worldwide. The Cairollers were founded in 2012 by two American expats, but the team is now dominated almost entirely by Egyptian females. To see them together, in their customized uniforms, they look like one of the funky street gangs you might find in the classic movie The Warriors (the girls even have their own unique nicknames!). However, this sport is real…contact is often and injury is common. This is not the kind of sport that one imagines young Egyptian girls partaking in, let alone dominating. However, it is obvious once you watch a game, or get to know the team, that The CaiRollers love the sport, and live for it. The CaiRollers are a passionate team making waves both within Egypt, and the roller derby scene, with big plans for the future. They offer many females a great source of fitness, meeting new people and 26
a much needed relief from the day to day stresses of life. Lina Elgohary, also known as Adrenalina, has been a Cairoller for more than two years, and is currently a blocker on the team. She also manages PR for The CaiRollers, all while trying to fit in a full time day job. We donned our protective helmets, war paint and battle gear to get on the track and talk to her a bit about the team and the sport. Aside from the obvious benefits of fitness, fun and meeting new people, what else do you gain from roller derby? For the lack of a better word…self-confidence! When playing roller derby, I feel unique and strong. In roller derby, I found a group of amazing women I otherwise would never have known. I also found an outlet. I don’t express myself and all of that gets all pent up and eventually needs to get out, and so I skate and I get hit, and I get knocked down. But then I get back up again and again. Roller derby became my lifestyle! What does the team/roller derby mean to you? My roller derby team is one of the only things in life that gives back as much as I put in. For every minute of my time I dedicate to skate with my league, I will be paid back tenfold with friendship, fitness and fun. And maybe a broken nose or busted knee! Laughing and sweating constantly… bruises…rink rash…and doing it all with a team of hot ladies who maintain sexy while doing a full contact athletic sport. What do your friends and family think of you being involved in the sport? Some think I’m a badass girl…and some think I’m a fool!
What are you guys working on right now…events, developing the team, expanding etc.? We’re working on finding a sponsor, because our biggest problem is funding our gear, events… everything. At the moment, we’re so independent! We wish that we could host any roller derby team to play us one day, or even travel to their home town. We aim, within no more than four years, to have our league name in the roller derby world cup championship. In terms of development, we wish to have one or two international coaches spend a month to give us training to become better players… but again, it’s all down to money! With regard to expanding, we are doing very well right now, thank God. We allow new comers twice a year and we have around 23 dedicated Egyptian skaters, with around 10 foreigners that come and go during the year. For many, roller derby's contemporary resurgence has been regarded as an aspect of globalization which demonstrates the speed with which pop culture is now transported by highly mobile expatriates and social media, while also highlighting the changing role of women in many societies. For The CaiRollers, it means so much more on a personal level. It continues to grow, and we hope to see roller derby represented in more professionally organized events and competitions. The whole team at The CaiRollers would like to thank Shaneikiah Bickham and Angie Turk, their two cofounders, for making the team what it is today, their continual success and future prosperity. For the latest events, news, media and recruitment opportunities, follow The CaiRollers on Facebook: caiRollergirls, as well as on Twitter @cairollers.
TRD
A STUDY IN
WHITE ARWA MOHAMMAD ABULHASAN EXPLORES THE ANTARCTIC by bazaar staff
For some people, a vacation involves the beach, souvenir shopping and tourist attractions. A true traveler strays from the “yellow brick road” and aims to become a pioneer in their expeditions. Armed with a title like International Exploration Manager at Husaak Adventures, Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan is a true embodiment of this modern explorer. She’s earned her place as the first Kuwaiti to go to Antarctica as part of the 2041 educational expedition. Today, we not only applaud her – we acknowledge her awesomeness.
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up close and personal [...continued] This mother of three is no stranger to adventure and exploration. Passionate about exploring the world and delving into its unbeaten paths, Arwa loves to travel and connect with local cultures. As a voyager of lands, she spent the last nine years following the 2041 International Antarctic Expedition – admiring them from afar. A nomination to join them and two months later, Arwa found herself packing for the icy continent and the rest, is history. Glorious is one way to describe this epic journey – boundary pushing is another. When asked to elaborate on her experience she simply said “Truly indescribable.” She suggests that everyone should embark on such an educational expedition to gain indepth knowledge about this unique land that is not governed by any government or country. Educational and fun, you’re pushed so far out of your comfort zone and forced to acknowledge this land's significance in our universe. Arwa adds, “It also makes the preservation of Antarctica your passion after witnessing first hand this delicate yet unforgiving land and its gorgeous wildlife.” With Husaak Adventures and the 2041 Organization, the world truly is your oyster. Explore the paths once ignored, and write your own chronicles of epic journeys. Take a page out of Ibn Battuta famous travel memoir, Rehla, and ponder the depths of this beautiful planet we live in. “I encourage people to explore the world responsibly and with a purpose instead of going to places purely for tourism,” said Arwa, “The purpose of the International Antarctic Expedition was not just to see the wildlife, but also learn about Antarctica and fight to preserve it.” Traveling the world isn’t just good for the body – it does wonders for the soul. So when you join such expeditions, you end up learning from your journeys. As the great Mark Twain once said, “Explore. Dream. Discover.” – through all the explorations and journeys to the heart of the unknown, we can help conserve it all and bask in its glory for years to come. Why not conduct your own study in white? Join Husaak Adventures and take the unbeaten path to creating a better world. Lastly, Arwa added, “I would like to thank my sponsors – Q8Aviation and Explorers Base – for their generosity and support.” For more information on this expeditions and others visit www.husaak.com and www.2041.com. To get a feel of what traveling off the beaten path feels like, follow Husaak Adventures on Instagram @husaak. Photos are courtesy of Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan and the 2041 Expedition Staff.
What do you most value in your friends? Loyalty and communication…I love friends who keep in touch and whom I feel connected to after years of not seeing each other. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Before visiting Antarctica it was being with my family and extended family. After experiencing the tranquility of the icy continent, I would say my idea of perfect happiness is being on a zodiac in the middle of the Antarctic waters surrounded by glaciers, icebergs, soaring birds, breeching whales, and jumping penguins. What is your greatest fear? Death. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Being impatient. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Being slow and being stuck up. Which living person do you most admire? My mother…she has it all figured out. She has the perfect balance of strength, love, poise, and diplomacy. What is your greatest extravagance? My love for jewelry and precious stones… those are the only unnecessary objects I spend money on. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? According to my husband, I say obviously a lot…but that’s because things are very obvious to me. With my kids it’s either, “good job” or “time to sleep.” What is it that you most dislike? Being hungry, tired, or cold. Which talent would you most like to have? Being able to tune things out of my head and not let people annoy me… and that is truly a talent. If you could have any job, what would it be? Secretary General of the United Nations… that has always been my goal. What would you consider your greatest achievement? Giving birth to my daughter and my twin boys naturally, because that brought out a level of strength and determination I never knew I had. What is your most treasured possession? Every single one of my many photos. What is your most marked characteristic? Being determined and knowing exactly what I want. Where would you most like to live? New York City (where I grew up). What are your favorite words to live by? “Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!” –Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
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AN TARC TI C A:
LIFE'S GREATEST CHALLENGE by Arwa Mohammad Abulhasan
There was a frenzy of excited passengers on the slippery decks of the Sea Spirit as soon as the first iceberg was spotted. We were approaching Antarctica, the icy continent. At that moment in time we were in the infamous Drake Passage, which is similar to an oceanic roller coaster. We were still 10 hours away from Antarctica, but we were getting closer. The excitement was palpable. The 2041 International Expedition to Antarctica had started two days ago in Ushuaia, Argentina where the stellar 2041 team bombarded us with safety briefings, lectures on sustainability, climate change, leadership, and most importantly, the inspiring story of Robert Swan’s walk to the South Pole and how that spurred him to be a champion in the preservation of Antarctica. The next 10 days made every one of the 81 expedition participants want to dedicate their life to the preservation of this pristine continent. Antarctica was truly breathtaking and every hike or zodiac cruise would prove to us that it was incomparable to any other place on earth. The expedition activities ranged from gentle walks on the ice to reflect and write in our journals, to camping on the ice in -5 degrees Celsius, and hiking a crevasse filled glacier in rope teams. And for the truly daring, there was the much anticipated polar plunge where you jump into the icy Antarctic waters just for fun. But what set this expedition apart 32
was that every activity was planned perfectly with safety at the forefront. Every staff member was fully informed and always there to ensure the animals’ wellbeing and our safety. Luck is also a big part of any expedition to Antarctica. Mother Nature took from us a chance to hike the brown’s bluff glacier because the waters were very icy that day and we would have been stranded for days or weeks perhaps if we had attempted to go there. But, when life gives you lemons, you learn how to make lemonade. Our lemonade was landing on a large piece of sea ice, which is essentially frozen ocean, and not something that has broken off from a glacier. In return, Mother Nature treated us with the rare opportunity to see around 30 orcas swimming and jumping around our vessel and later, an immense sperm whale, which came close enough for some amazing photographs. In between the ice landings and zodiac cruises to view the wildlife, we had lectures about the history, geology, and wildlife of the continent, as well as a myriad of talks on leadership and sustainability. We even got the opportunity to help one of our fellow expeditioners collect water specimens to look for microplastics in the Antarctic ocean, and another to test solar panels on the vessel. In short, this was truly an experience of a lifetime. One that left all of the participants hungry for more and sad to land at
the port of Ushuaia at the end of the voyage. Yet, the journey has not ended, in fact, it has just begun. Each and every one of the expedition participants has to make their mark to help raise awareness so that in the year 2041 the Antarctic treaty will remain the same to keep Antarctica as a land reserved for peace and science. The filmmakers in the group will make a film, the educators will educate, the scientists will continue their research and development of alternative energy so that we will never need to drill or mine in this pristine continent. As for me, I will tell my story so that next year there will be more than just one Kuwaiti on the 2041 expedition. So that Kuwaitis view Antarctica not as a touristic destination, but a place to learn and grow and challenge themselves both physically and mentally. Most importantly, my mission is to tell my children how sad the penguins are that they are losing their homes now that their icebergs are melting, as a consequence of us using too much water every time we take a shower or brush our teeth. Every time I see my children turning off the tap or turning off the light, I know that we are that much closer to preserving Antarctica for our grandchildren. To learn more about the 2041 International Antarctic Expedition please visit www.2041.com and the Facebook page: Robert Swan and 2041.
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20 MINUTES TO A NEW YOU Kuwait’s fitness studio of the future by bazaar staff
If there is one rule in fitness, it is that hard work yields results, and shortcuts only have you coming up short on your goals. So when we heard about the Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) workout that is now available at 20seven Fitness, we were skeptical. The workout is simple. Just put on the suit, and the vest, and feel the electricity flow through your body as you perform reps for about 20 minutes. The pulses mimic electric currents sent from your brain to move your muscles but target deep muscle tissue to give you a workout unlike any other. In fact just one 20-minute session is the equivalent of three traditional workouts in a gym. It takes very little time, but an incredible amount of effort. Mohammad Kriedieh, founder of 20seven Fitness, is no stranger to hard work. He knew he had a tough road ahead to a healthier lifestyle when he reached the unbearable weight of 103 kg. The stagnant lifestyle and an unhealthy diet he had fallen into when he came to Kuwait in 2006, had made it difficult for him to even walk. “I decided to change my life,” he said. “It was hard at the beginning, but slowly I started losing weight and got attached to sports and activities. I even started reading and teaching myself about nutrition and sports.” In his quest for new and innovative workouts, he came across an article that outlined the futuristic regimen of the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt. Towering at over two-meters, the sprinter was shown wearing the Miha Bodytec black vest lined with red wires and a large control board. It was the first time Kriedieh saw the EMS 34
machine, and it opened his eyes to the future of fitness. He found that many supermodels had used the machine to enhance their workouts. Furthermore, the entire FC Bayern Munich football team uses this technology to train. By October 2014 his machine had arrived from Germany, and just two months later at the start of the New Year, the doors of 20seven Fitness opened. The major selling point for EMS training is the speed in which you get amazing results. Studies done by the German Sport University in Cologne found that in high-performing athletes there was a 30% increase in power in just four weeks. Furthermore, three months after they started the program they saw a 67% increase in their abdominal power, and a 74% increase in their core. The program is not just for professional athletes and trainers though. Many patients undergoing physiotherapy have used the EMS training to workout muscles damaged due to injury. Just an hour of workouts a week and your body is transformed? The bazaar team couldn’t believe it, so we headed to 20seven Fitness for a trial workout with EMS trainer Anka. We were instructed to come with no gym clothes, as everything was provided for us. When we went to the small studio they provided us with a suit that looked just like a typical wet suit, only with straps on the arms and thighs. Then we were outfitted with the vest, which was a bit heavy at first, but we forgot about it very quickly. Anka sprayed the vest with water to conduct the electricity to the muscles. The machine was turned on bit by bit. She tested each muscle’s endurance to the electric currents
by sending stronger and stronger currents. A note to new users, pace yourself, when the whole suit is on it’s a workout just to stand, and it can be quite ticklish. Although the electricity tickled a bit, by that time the entire suit was sending electric impulses. The helpful instructors were extremely patient and guided us through the whole process. All of our muscles, were contracting as the electric current went through and we had to utilize every one. Nothing went to waste, from clenching abdominal muscles to doing a simple squat, the task was a little painful - but it was a good pain. We ended up sweatier than we would have been if we did an hour of cardio at the gym, and felt great right after. By the next day we were so sore we could feel every muscle move, ache and stretch, having worked out muscles we never knew we had. That wonderful pain lasted for three days, but also showed how much we needed it, and in time with a few workouts this should diminish. We can only imagine the results from a regular workout like this would be, and according to Kriedieh, it would be time well spent. “We want people to drop excuses and move into a healthy lifestyle with minimum time spent,” he told bazaar. “The machine is being used all over the world and with thousands of studios and users all over. Athletes use it, celebrities use it, why not you?” 20seven Fitness Studio can be found in the Sirbb Circuit. For more information and to book your free session call 2226 1908. Follow them on Instagram @20sevenkw.
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‘TIS THE SEASON FOR KITTENS! KareQ8 launches a kitten-feeding workshop for abandoned babies by bazaar staff
Mikki was walking her disabled dog around midnight when she heard the cries of a small kitten coming from a nearby garbage can. Beside the big blue container was a paint bucket, empty but for a litter of tiny kittens that could not have been more than a couple of days old. “I saw the bucket and there were four of them inside,” she told bazaar. “It was getting cold so I couldn’t leave them. It was also midnight, that’s why I didn’t have time to get them formula or anything. So I had to educate myself from the Internet on what to do.” Despite being pregnant, caring for a rescue dog that had lost the use of his legs in a car accident and working full time, Mikki took the kittens home. She tried to feed them, but found them delicate and difficult to care for. Her friend realized she was struggling and told her about a workshop held by KareQ8, a local animal rescue group here in Kuwait, on how to feed kittens. The workshop was hosted by PetZone and given by Dalal Al Rushaid, a member of the Kuwait Animal Rescue Unit (KARU). She arrived with a large box of supplies and a small kennel with more than a half dozen kittens inside. She showed attendees how to mix the formula, gave suggestions on what brand to use and how to properly make an opening in the rubber nipple, and also how to help the kittens to pass the formula. When she had the milk mixed (one part 36
formula and three parts warm water), she pulled a one-month-old kitten from the carrying case. Al Rushaid held its head up and directed the nipple of the bottle to its mouth. Soon enough the baby cat was hungrily sucking down the formula. Each of the participants took a turn feeding one of the kittens, and at the end of the workshop, all the babies were happily sleeping under the blanket. Organizers at KareQ8 are often bogged down this time of year with motherless and homeless baby kittens. Cats are seasonal reproducers, and are in heat starting in March, until September. Their pregnancies last about 63 days, and they give birth to litters that have an average of three to five. In the early days of their lives they need to be fed every two to four hours. “We are only eight girls,” said organizer Yasmeen Al-Haza. “Bottle-feeding newborn orphans is a seasonal task that we find ourselves struggling with. The workshop is to encourage members of society to join our hands and help in any way they can. We hope this workshop creates a base of newborn orphan animal helpers.” The workshop exemplifies the kind of community outreach the KareQ8 program does. The program was started to find homes for abandoned and stray animals in Kuwait. Their defining characteristic is what they don’t have, a shelter. None of the animals the group rescues is ever put into a cage. Instead the young women take them home themselves or
find them a foster home. “The idea of the group is to push society to move as well as help the animals,” said Al-Haza. “Animals in shelters don’t show their character. When in foster homes they will most likely be of the same character as when they get adopted from a foster home.” At the workshop, a young lady interested in adopting one of the kittens approached Mona Bash, a volunteer with KareQ8. The young lady seemed excited about the prospect of taking a cute kitten home, but Bash was quick to ask hard questions. “Let me ask you this,” she said to the father and his daughter. “What happens when you get married? Will you take her with you or will you leave her in the house? How will you keep her in your family?” According to Al-Haza many of the prospective foster parents don’t realize that adoption is a lifetime commitment, and that the animal can live to be almost twenty years old. However, they have found homes more than 100 cats and over than 80 dogs, who are now all over the world. With a team dedicated to the welfare of these small furry friends, and with your help, the future of cats and dogs in Kuwait is looking much brighter. For more information on KareQ8, or for adoption, volunteer or donation enquiries, visit their website KareQ8.com. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @KareQ8 to find your new best friend!
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A L S HA H EED PA R K by bazaar staff
A leisurely stroll that takes you away from Kuwait City’s hustle and bustle, a visit to Al Shaheed Park will quickly make you forget the daily grind, offering visitors a truly wonderful escape in the heart of the city. Kuwait’s citizens are offered the opportunity to rightfully interact with the city’s public spaces, and while we all enjoy a thorough marathon of windowshopping in alternative enclosed spaces, Al Shaheed Park marks a new direction that corresponds to public demand. Developed by Kuwait’s Amiri Diwan, and managed by LOYAC, the inauguration of Kuwait’s
Al Shaheed Park marks a milestone that is surely worth celebrating. Complete with resplendent landscapes, beautiful open spaces, cultural spaces and museums, dedicated jogging and bicycling lanes, we were astounded to learn that the Park officially spans over 200,000 square meters. Envisioned and developed to leave a lasting mark, Al Shaheed Park’s stunning architectural design features minimalist structures that flawlessly blend in with the surrounding landscapes. The Park aims to serve the public with its mission: Satisfying the urban needs of Kuwait’s citizens through facilitating
experiences that communicate the country’s land, history and culture. Al Shaheed Park serves as a historical, cultural, educational and environmental platform, ensuring that the space serves the country in more ways than one through quality events, programs and activities. The Park's main mission is to promote sustainability and to teach people to better take care of Kuwait's natural landscapes through interactive activities to be carried out at both the newly introduced Aviary and The Habitat Museum, an interactive venue that is poised to [continued...] 39
EX PERIENCING
LAND, H I ST O RY & C ULTURE
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[...continued] educate its visitors about Kuwait’s naturally occurring landscapes, endangered species, ecosystems as well as different animal migrations. Furthermore, visitors will instantly notice the remarkable difference in the landscapes that occur around The Habitat Museum, where this area showcases the different flora and fauna that natively grow in Kuwait, as well as a myriad of plant species that are projected to flourish in the same area, affirming the Park’s aims and goals to promote sustainability. As visitors arrive, the main underground parking area is centrally located to take you to either end of the park. A typical stroll will lead you to the Thekra Museum, a historical museum that provides information about the country's historical battles fought in the past, along with the invasion of 1990. Visitors could also share their own experiences at a dedicated memorial center, as Al Shaheed Park aims to preserve these memories as part of the Park’s legacy to Kuwait’s people. We further learned that the Amiri Diwan initially wished to reclaim the country's previous greenbelt garden, that once bordered the country's original entry gates. This was initially allocated as the country's green belt, which evolved into the green belt garden with the city's growth past the original city gates. The initial project entered different phases of development and evolution, and eventually became the original Al Shaheed Park to commemorate the country’s martyrs. The Amiri Diwan is looking to further reclaim the original green belt area, as the underground tunnel, built in the 50s, connects this entire area through these interesting walkways. A small stroll after the Thekra Museum takes visitors toward several historical monuments. Given the historical value of this existing area of land as a whole, a historic tour by expertly trained LOYAC tour guides will soon be in place. Al Shaheed Park’s location, which is set alongside Kuwait’s oldest and most iconic Ring Road, also houses the country’s old city gates that have remarkably remained in the same exact location since the gates were first erected in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Furthermore, Al Shaheed Park is also home to the beautiful Constitution Monument that commemorates the country's 50th anniversary of the constitution’s ratification, along with the Martyrs Monument that serves as a reminder to the country's most pivotal events, the proclamation of freedom and those who lost their lives in reclaiming and protecting Kuwait's freedoms. Along with an open-air amphitheater that is only mere steps away from the old city gates, a designated Visitor Center, cafes, restaurants, gift shop and book shop, the park is further equipped with more cultural amenities that perpetuate the country’s commitment to creating public spaces that serve its citizen’s interests. As a cultural platform, Al Shaheed Park serves to help people who are leading the Cultural Revolution in Kuwait. In hopes to support the local community, this is showcased by the outdoor installations by local architects and designers that are constantly being inaugurated into the park and multipurpose usage areas. The Park is managed by a dedicated team from LOYAC who are undertaking and organizing community programs that focus on healthy living, education empowerment and other cultural activities that encourage the exchange of international and regional arts. LOYAC stands for Lothan Youth [continued...]
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[...continued] Achievement Center, and it is a non-profit organization established in 2002. It works towards the overall development of the youth in Kuwait and the region such as Lebanon and Jordan. Its programs focus on empowering the youth through unique opportunities to evolve into highly effective leaders. Al Shaheed Park also prides itself on ensuring the safety of its patrons, with a fully dedicated security team that is mindful of visitors' safety from its opening time up until 10 p.m. One of our favorite areas in the park includes the pristine park, that is only a short walk away from the lush open grassy area that is called the Circle of Peace. The 42
Constitution Monument garden is abundant with flora and fauna from around the world, where each row of plants symbolizes an article from Kuwait’s constitution. To our delight, we ventured through the renovated underground tunnel that initially connected Kuwait’s first green belt; this passageway has been immaculately refurbished, incorporating stunning three-dimensional Portuguese tiles in shades of deep emerald green and calming jade. If you decide to take on a leisurely stroll through Al Shaheed Park but you simply don’t know where to start, then don’t hesitate to speak to any of the qualified tour guides and security officials on the premises. They’re
extremely friendly and they are always around to offer a helping hand and assist visitors with any requests, including one very lost bazaar editor. Editor's Note: For more information about the Al Shaheed Park project participants, please directly contact the Park's management. Opening hours for Al Shaheed Park are from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Saturday to Thursday) and Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more information, please visit alshaheedpark.com, and follow them on Instagram @alshaheedpark.
JEEP
LADIES LOUNGE #NoMenAllowed by bazaar staff
A spot in the sun, where one can lounge, undisturbed and uninterrupted by screaming children or uncomfortable stares – fret not ladies, The Regency has provided you with just that. Relax and soak up all the Vitamin D you need while working on that gorgeous tan for the season. Munch on health-conscious snacks and the freshest of juices without the guilt. Breathe in the fresh air away from any smoke as you enjoy the sun – smokers can go to a designated corner away from the pool but still bathed in sunlight. This ladies-only area is secluded and closed off from prying eyes giving you the privacy you crave. The Regency Hotel have it set up perfectly – far from the busy main pool area, a hidden gem resides. A ladies-only facility that allows the women to relax and enjoy the sun without being on display is exactly what one needs at times – even if you aren’t veiled. You can opt for a full membership or just for the day, but step right into 44
your very own sun-drenched haven. Complete with an indoor lounge area, you don’t have to change out of your swimwear to enjoy your meal or drink; just throw on a cover up and you’re good to go. You can even leave your personal belongings in the lockers provided downstairs in the changing rooms! Even the beach is secluded! The Regency have it all worked out so you don’t have to worry about anything other than your tan. With a barrier around the beach, you can chill on the sand and enjoy the scenery in peace. Want to go for a swim in the sea? Not a problem! Swim to your heart’s content as the area is closed off from every direction, giving you complete privacy. So pick your favorite spot in the sun and lounge as long as you like. The Arabian Gulf is a glorious view to ponder upon while you drink your healthy concoction and enjoy your riveting read. If the sea isn’t your thing and you’d rather
lounge by the pool, pick your spot and enjoy! With a kiddie-free pool and a separate outdoor Jacuzzi, you never have to sacrifice sun-time to take a dip in the cooling, relaxing waters. No need to bring your own towels as the Ladies Lounge comes with everything. Complimentary towels, lockers, and even a spot in the sun – all you need to do is enjoy. If you forgot your favorite tanning lotions, you can buy some from the reception area of the lounge. Did we mention you get to enjoy a complimentary ten minute yoga session alfresco? Nothing says luxury better than starting your day with some yoga, sun, sea, and sand. Just what the doctor ordered, no? So ladies, head over to The Regency Hotel for some much needed R’n’R. The Ladies Lounge is available from April 1st to October 31st excluding the Holy Month of Ramadan. For more information, call them on 2576 6666.
LUXENTER
bazaar love/hate
CELEBRITY BABY NAMES by bazaar staff
Buzz Michaelangelo and Tom Fletcher Here’s what happened: Dweezil and Pixie went with Moon Unit Zappa to see Jermajesty when Moon Unit stumbled upon Buddy Bear and Summer Rain. Just then, Saint Lazslo got all Moxie Crimefighter about it and got Daisy Boo caught up in Blue Ivy. Poet, Bronx, and Lyric got caught with Bogart Che Peyote and ended up stuck in an Alabama Gypsy with Peaches Geldoff. Whew — what just happened? I think I blacked out. Is somebody putting something funky in the water of the entertainment industry? Why is it that celebrities aren’t able to just name their kids regular names? When Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin named their kid Apple I really thought that was as far as we could go, then Kim-Yeezy came along and named their kid North West and now we have an epidemic of crazy baby names on our hands. Odd baby names are catching like a rash around Hollywood and it needs to be stopped. Here are some of the biggest offenders: #10 Moxie CrimeFighter Jillette (Penn Jillette from Penn & Teller fame, and Emily Zolten) – Moxie, though an antiquated word, is also one of my favorites. But CrimeFighter as a middle name? Yikes! I would expect more from a magician. Do you think he can make the name disappear? #9 Apollo Bowie Flynn (Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale) – A Greek God, a Rockstar, and an Irishman walk into a bar — no, I’m just kidding that’s just my baby's name! Seriously. The three names here evoke such completely different images that with a little punctuation, it seems like a lead-in to a good punch line. Plus since Apollo the Greek God is 46
the son of Zeus (basically the most butt-kicking of all Greek gods), and this Apollo is the son of famous singer Gavin Rossdale (and really don’t all of these names really reveal more about the parents than the kids?), I think it is safe to say this singer has a hero complex. #8 Summer Rain (Christina Aguilera and Matt Rutler) – Is your child a weather pattern? Ok, arguably this is the most normal first name on this list, but still, why would you want to name your kid after a regrettable weather condition? #7 Saint Lazslo (Pete Wentz from Fall Out Boy and Meagan Camper) – Ok, newsflash, naming your child a saint does not actually, in fact, make them a saint, or even saintly. In fact, it is most likely to inspire the opposite condition entirely. #6 Pirate Houseman Davis (Jonathan Davis and Devon Davis) – Pirate is a terrible name even if you’re on the high seas. Can you imagine the trouble it can cause on dry land? Nobody likes a pirate, not even pirates. #5 Jermajesty Jackson (Jermaine Jackson and Alejandra Patricia Oaiaz) – A portmanteau of Jermaine and Majesty, meant to imply her majesty, it seems. With previous kids Jeremy, Jourdynn and Jaafar, he had to start with another J. (a la Kardashian), but this one went a bit too far we feel. Hmmm… #4 Pilot Inspektor Lee (Jason Lee and Beth Riesgraf) – Sounds like they are auditioning their child for different job opportunities. #3 Audio Science Clayton (Shannyn Sossamon from A Knight’s Tale fame and Dallas Clayton) – This
Christina Aguilera and Summer Rain sounds like the most boring class at Music College. #2 Buzz Michelangelo (Singer/Songwriter Tom Fletcher and Giovanna Rush) – Unless this baby is painting frescoes in space, this has got to be the worst on the list. Maybe I don’t like the name Buzz to begin with. It seems like a retired WWII veteran who chews his tobacco and insults indigenous peoples of the world. #1 Bodhi Ransom Green (Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green) – A ransom? Really? Why not just name your kid ‘KidnapMe Jones’? Way to put a target on your kids back. This Megan and BrianAustin combo is screaming for attention. Although, both would probably be happy with the press they would receive from a ransomed baby, so there’s that. Maybe it’s their attempt at foreshadowing, or self-fulfilling prophecy... Bonus: Royal Reign (Lil Kim and Papers) – So, I am not sure if rapper Lil Kim and Papers are aware, but you don’t actually become royalty by just giving your child a name that sounds monarchyadjacent (although, neither parents started a good precedent in the names department). Who knows how long this baby’s monarchy will reign, but I’m guessing not long… Moon Unit Zappa and Blue Ivy, who would have ever thought you would not make this list, and could seem so normal by comparison? Yikes! Love/Hate is your guide to all of life’s little conundrums! Please save the future generation from their names!
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THE RISE OF YOGA IN KUWAIT by Reem Algharabally
Fifteen years ago, if you wanted to learn yoga in Kuwait, it was highly probable you would have found your teacher through word-of-mouth and would have arranged classes at home. If you were lucky, your gym or beach club might have offered a weekly class. That has all changed now. Yoga classes are being offered in parks, at beaches and new yoga studios all over the country to fit every budget. Kuwait is experiencing its own yoga boom reflecting the international rise in the popularity of this ancient practice. Local teachers are getting their 48
teacher training certifications and studio owners are getting creative with licensing their spaces. As recently as two years ago, this was not the case. There were no dedicated yoga studios in Kuwait when the Yoga Center of Kuwait opened in Burj Jassem in 2013. “When we first opened, the scene was not what it is now," says one of the founders Jana Al Naqeeb, a former ACK event manager and science blogger, The Generalist. “You can see from our social media, we wanted to put facts and information about yoga and the different styles
available. It is very different now. Everyone now knows what yoga is and mainstream TV and radio people are talking about it.” The Yoga Center is a Zen-like sanctuary with soundproof studios, luxurious changing facilities and a yoga shop – rare in Kuwait – selling fashionable yoga clothes for women and high quality eco yoga mats. However their licensing as a health club means they cannot offer classes to men: under Kuwaiti law all gyms not affiliated to a hotel require gender segregation. [continued...]
Dar Atma
Yoga teacher Shaikha Al Sabah who founded Dar Atma yoga studio in 2014 rejected licensing her studio as a health club despite strong pressure. “This was not a place to do exercise, it is not a gym, it is a place to where you learn to do yoga – it’s a teaching institute.” After a long bureaucratic process Dar Atma was licensed in December 2014 and hosted the first yoga teacher training in Kuwait with the Kashmir Shaivism School of Yoga They now offer both mixed and women-only classes in their studio in Salmiya with its large
windows and sea views. Alongside their timetable of popular vinyasa styles (a dynamic, flowing practice) they also offer yin, restorative and Yoga Kurunta – a rope wall, allowing the practitioner to hold prop-assisted inversions. “Now in Kuwait and worldwide the trend is Vinyasa,” Shaikha says. ”We are an anxious and stressed people, so basically we need fast Vinyasa. It releases all of that energy, but once you get over that, there is more. You realize that you are not young forever and everyone needs to do yoga regardless. Anyone who can breathe can do
yoga, because yoga is your breath,” Yoga Center and Dar Atma are boutique-style yoga spaces, intimate with beautiful interiors and this is reflected in their pricing. But many donationbased and free classes have also been popping up in Kuwait. Computer Engineer and Freelance photographer Nawaf Al Ali moonlights as a yoga teacher and has been running a popular free Friday morning yoga class on a grassy section of Jamal Abdulnasseer Park in Rawda. As of May he plans to offer classes in a new location – [continued...] 49
[...continued] the recently opened Al Shaheed Park in Kuwait City. His Yoga in the Park sessions attract people of all ages, nationalities and skill levels. “The idea of weekly Yoga in the Park is to spread awareness of yoga to the public,” Nawaf says. “The popularity of yoga has increased greatly after the birth of social media. A lot of people first come to it for the wrong reasons; from ‘wanting to be flexible’ to ‘following the trend’. But as they start practicing everyday, slowly they start realizing that yoga is more than just striking a pose. It is a spiritual practice that brings balance to your physical and spiritual life.” This experience of approaching yoga for its physical benefits, but finding that it helps bring peace to both mind and soul, is a common one. Joseph Fiannaca, a French teacher at the American University of Kuwait and part-time yoga teacher, has a similar story to tell. “I first tried yoga in 1996. I was absolutely not prepared and never went back,” he says. Many years later he tried it again at the Marina Hotel. “At the time I was into weight training and I decided to try the yoga class and I discovered I could not do any sun salutations. My whole body was stiff. I was going to the gym and I had a body that I liked with strong muscles, but there was no flexibility, no grace. I felt a disconnection between the physical body and something else, which I later discovered, was the energetic body,” he says. After doing his teacher training in Mysore and Rishikesh in India, he now teaches donation-based classes from his home to small groups, but does not advertise. He specializes in Nada Yoga – using sound to create a meditative, relaxed state. “It is great to see this yoga trend in Kuwait, but we have to bear in mind that yoga is state of mind, it is not something to add onto our to-do list,” Joseph says. "The more people who deepen this understanding, the more they will discover who they truly are. Once you know that we are all interconnected with this extraordinary capacity of loving kindness inside us, there will be no need for expectation, desire, ambition. We need to remove all those layers we have built around us and reconnect with our true self.” Interior designer Line Risom also felt that the yoga classes in a gym did not address what she needed from a yoga space and transformed a room in her apartment into a tropical paradise with a feature wall of palm tree wall paper and seacolored furniture, where she hosts yoga classes with guest teachers. It has become a community, which she calls Asama Yoga. “We often talk after class, we plan trips together and we have even designed a line of yoga bags together,” she says. She feels comfortable opening up her home to yogis. “Many people have come through. We try and accommodate beginners. Asama yoga is there for whoever wants to practice.” She feels when the time is right she will take steps towards opening an official yoga studio and become a teacher herself. But in true yogic style, 50
Terri Alexander
Yoga Center of Kuwait says she is not going to push it. “Things happen at the right time. In 2005 I tried to open a yoga and creativity center but it didn’t happen. The idea of a yoga studio in Kuwait was still very fresh to everybody,” she says. Terri Alexander, who started to teach yoga in 2002 after 20 years of self-taught self-practice, is a home studio veteran and observed how yoga has developed in Kuwait over three and a half decades. “The young people now are really looking into an alternative way of life. This generation is more empowered and independent with their decisions towards their health,” Terri says. Influenced by her training at the Iyengar Yoga Institute in Pune and the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, Terri specializes in individualized, therapeutic yoga. She has a reputation in Kuwait for teaching yoga to people with multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and scoliosis of the spine.
Every yoga teacher interviewed in this article was asked if yoga was a haba – the Kuwaiti word for “trend.” “Even if it’s a haba, it is a good haba,” says Shaikha from Dar Atma. “And the ones that have the right intention will stay on the path of yoga”. The yoga scene in Kuwait is developing rapidly with more yoga studios being launched and pop-up yoga classes and events being planned. The only way to keep up is to keep your ear close to the ground. Here are contacts for some of the teachers and studios mentioned in this piece: Yoga Center of Kuwait: http://theyogacenter.me Dar Atma: Follow on instagram @daratma_kw Nawaf Al Ali: Follow on instagram @mazajent Asama yoga: Email line@asamayoga.com Terri Alexander: Visit www.terrialexander.com.
HYUNDAI SCRAP
MMC CATERING, REBORN Kuwait’s MMC Catering looks to new horizons and developments by bazaar staff
Paul Sarlas It’s so easy for companies to stick to one successful business formula. If it isn’t broken, and everything is working efficiently, why bother to fix it? For MMC Catering’s visionary founder Mr. Mishari Al Roudhan, however, success without vision is unacceptable. Alongside a progressive team, including the exemplary talents of CEO Paul Sarlas, 2015 marks a year of change and new horizons for the renowned culinary and catering operators. Since its inception in 1996, MMC Catering has set the standard in delivering diners a variety of sophisticated culinary destinations that function 52
independently of five-star hotel establishments. To celebrate this milestone, the company has decided to take on a five-year expansion plan that is full of new concepts, refurbishments, and cutting edge developments that CEO Sarlas dubs as “MMC’s rebirth.” Appointed by MMC’s founder Mr. Mishari Al Roudhan, Paul claims that no real change can be accomplished without a real vision. He said, “Mr. Mishari Al Roudhan is a wonderful visionary. He's so different to anyone I’ve worked with in the past. He likes shaking things up, and I find it very exciting to work in such an environment.”
With the first opening of Le Notre in 1998, MMC Catering has continued to evolve in the market. People admire and love the company for what it stands for: evolution, paying attention to customers’ changing palates, and setting the standard in the industry. Furthermore, the company is well on its way in delivering its culinary concepts to an international audience, starting off regionally and progressively adding more international ventures to the company’s portfolio. Paul Sarlas has spent the last eight months redefining MMC Catering’s culinary concepts. This started off with the refurbishment and further redefinition of Le Notre’s presence in Kuwait. He said, “We needed to examine our local presence before we venture into an international arena. It’s important for companies to carefully examine the elements that make a brand successful. It’s a continuous process, and as the company grows with new concepts such as Dikakeen and Meem, we are better able to predict what consumers are going to be asking for next.” With Le Notre’s new look and contemporary and organic offering located on Kuwait’s famous Gulf Road, Paul tells bazaar that customers should expect refurbishments at all of Le Notre’s other locations, turning the current concepts into chic and eclectic designs with food offerings that are distinguished from the brand’s main location that presents diners with a different culinary experience. Paul pays close attention to how local palates are constantly evolving, and he believes that travel and food trends play a major role in his decision to take up a new concept that would fall under MMC Catering’s umbrella of signature concepts. “Consider Mexican cuisine, for instance.” He explained, “People might want a new taco or burrito place, but they are equally eager to experience a new take on the traditional Mexican cuisine. The use of bread in Mexican cuisine is as [continued...]
Lenotre Cafe rendering
Dar Hamad rendering 53
Dikakeen
Inspiration for Esta Chido [...continued] important as its usage in Middle Eastern cuisine, with quesadilla’s, burritos and burgers being an major element in the menu, they are similar to Shawarma and the like. The local palate is extremely evolved and people are keen on keeping their tastes up with the global trends.” MMC Catering is definitely foraying into the realms of Mexican street food in the form of the beguiling concept aptly named, Esta Chido, which colloquially translates to ‘that’s cool’. Paul highlights the importance of further defining concepts and differentiating locations to maintain customer interest. Esta Chido is expected to make its first appearance at Spoons Mall in Mahboula and Avenues Mall, with four more locations planned across the country. We’re informed that each location will showcase a different personality, complete with its own music, theme, décor, and even staff interaction. The locations will show versatility in style and execution, and have customers eager to explore its five different personalities. We wondered about MMC’s interest in Street Style food, and Paul explains that people always look for sophisticated and refined flavors in an understated environment, “It’s all that everyone 54
Cafe Meem wants, in the end…a great meal, great service and the right price.” Street-style dining is indeed trendy and fashionable, but it is also flexible, allowing companies to conceptualize and execute new dishes and design elements whilst giving the true taste and experience of the cuisines heritage. “It’s all about the brand’s personality,” Paul added, “People want to dine out more often as a social experience; and when you're paying KD 4-6 per person, the idea of dining out becomes more regular as it is more affordable.” Perhaps a great example of demonstrating such success in taking street flavors into the modern age is Kuwaiti-fusion concept Dikakeen. Paul understands that consumers want to constantly experience comforting flavors in a dynamic environment. While Café Meem, for instance, showcase an ever-growing flock of followers, Paul chose to further redefine the concepts, honing in on the standards that makes it work and how it can be improved even further. As the concept is in the final stages of ‘redevelopment’, Meem is taking on a new frontier – MMC Catering is in the final stages of securing franchise agreements for both Dikakeen and Meem in the UAE and Qatar.
Locally, Dikakeen is going to expand with two more locations secured for this rising star that is locally conceived by MMC Catering and Meem will see an aggressive expansion across Kuwait. While Dikakeen showcases the best of Kuwaiti fusion dining, Café Meem arrives as an extremely successful Middle Eastern concept that echoes with sophistication and chic. Café Meem is undergoing a tasteful makeover, where the brand will be serving ‘the best’ of what the Middle East has to offer. “Consider the best of the best from Arabia,” remarked Paul. The flavorsome honey from Yemen to inimitable Persian saffron, Meem’s rebrand will offer a menu that highlights the best produce from the region. The café’s new look is expected to be edgy, tailored to draw in a variety of crowds, especially those of us who enjoy regional flavors in a cool and casual environment. Expect an incredible new look and menu, as well as a new location for Café Meem in June, in none other than Seaview Mall, Mahboula, because incredible flavors only deserve the best views. Both Café Meem and Dikakeen are poised for an international presence, with location openings planned in London after the regional expansion plan is implemented.
Nagwa architectural model If you’ve found yourself driving down the Gulf Road, only to find yourself captivated by a stunning structure just before the Marina Mall traffic light in Salmiya, then you’re not alone. We’ve all seen that piquing sign that reads ‘Dar Hamad’, and we’ve wondered if the space serves as a private home or museum. The design is immaculate, faultlessly blending modern and traditional design aesthetics. When Paul began speaking to us about Dar Hamad from a culinary perspective, we were befuddled. He said, “We completely built the concept from its infancy and up until its completion. We will also be operating and managing Dar Hamad on behalf of Ahmad Al Homaizi, who appointed MMC Catering to undertake this project.” While we still thought that MMC had officially entered into the museum business, Paul explained that Dar Hamad arrives as a Kuwaiti fine dining concept, complete with a gourmet food shop, Chai lobby, seasonal roof terrace and events venue. There’s absolutely nothing like Dar Hamad in the market, especially with this unprecedented take on Kuwaiti cuisine. Paul promised bazaar a first look at the place, and we will be bringing you more on this story in our upcoming June issue. With Ramadan right around the corner, we
couldn’t end our conversation with Paul without discussing Nagwa, MMC Catering’s traditional sweets shop concept. Not only is the concept rapidly growing in popularity, it is also rapidly expanding. The stores’ aesthetic resembles its sweet offerings, traditional yet also infused with the modern. Nagwa will soon feature its own café space in Kuwait’s Promenade Mall in Hawaly, with food offerings of fused Moroccan flavors with a Kuwaiti twist. Nagwa is most certainly popular for weekend gatherings, family visitations and catering events. In addition, the brand has now expanded to offering its products in the UAE and Qatar through Arabesque, the retail boutique store. There is also discussion of franchising into the UAE and Qatar with the café and boutique that will potentially be secured shortly. No gathering is usually complete without an impressive culinary feast, and MMC Catering is most certainly a trendsetter in its catering offerings. Le Notre’s location near the Kuwait Towers is now also home to MMC Catering’s own chocolatier and florist, where you can easily come to the location to organize your next event with complete ease and peace of mind. MMC Catering's fully catered services flexibly allow you to enjoy specially curated
dishes from the company’s different concepts. In doing so, MMC Catering facilitates the usually daunting task of finalizing a catering menu for your guests.The company is also further refining its catering services in bringing the option of midmarket catering services in 2016. This is geared toward smaller weekend gatherings and more casual and intimate events. We enjoyed speaking with CEO Paul Sarlas about MMC Catering’s growth, admiring the direction that this prestigious company is taking. Most of the changes and developments that we discussed are progressively rolling out in 2015, with two new concept releases and a new MMC Catering dining destination planned for early 2016, alongside a strong plan toward international expansion. An exemplary team and Mishari Al Roudhan’s progressive vision lead MMC Catering, ensuring that the company stays ahead of the trends and positions itself as a trendsetter rather than a trend follower. For more information, please visit their website www.MMCKuwait.com, and follow them on Instagram @MMCkuwait. 55
BLOWING LIFE INTO OLD GAMES by bazaar staff
Who reading this, like the bazaar team, grew up as a Nintendo kid? All of those that raised their hand to that question can take our geeky nod of approval and treat yourself to a cookie. To the rest of you (yeah Team Sega, we’re glaring at you), then I’m sorry, we can no longer be friends since our fat Italian plumber beats your speedy blue hedgehog any day of the week. All jokes aside, we at bazaar absolutely love retro games. Most people go out and eat during their lunch breaks, but we prefer to open up Aladdin in the Web browser, or Super Mario 64 on a phone emulator. We grew up in the 80’s with the Atari, Amstrad and Commodore. We were in awe when the latest Toys R Us brochure came through the letter box advertising the Nintendo Entertainment System with full 8 BIT graphics! One package came with Super Mario Bros, Duck Hunt and the light gun and we really believed we were in the future. When Sega unleashed their mascot on the world, we went crazy for him. Gaming in the old days was so much different to now. Many times games were so much harder but on another level, far more basic. While you had maybe a whopping 2 or 3 buttons to master (and they were only usually jump and attack), aside from the joystick or D-pad the games were generally harder. You didn’t always have ultra-precise control that modern day control pads offer, so maneuvering your character was more challenging. The graphics were blocky and pixelated which, when paired with an old 19 inch CRT screen meant you sometimes didn’t know if you 56
could jump on that platform hovering in the middle of a huge black hole (we never forget or forgive, Bart Vs The Space Mutants and Castlevania), or if it was just a part of the scenery, and there was no Internet as such for you to check solutions or walkthroughs like today. We would have to wait an entire month for the latest gaming magazine to appear in the shops in the HOPE that they published some cheats for our current game. Oh and let’s not forget that (in the very early days at least) game saves just didn’t exist. You want to see the ending? Better settle in for the long haul because you’re playing that sucker in one go. Ghouls and Ghosts made you play through TWICE until you could get the true ending. Ah, the good old days! These days, we are spoiled, and true old school gamers will relate. We have blockbuster releases almost monthly that we can buy in stores or download directly. We get to see previews of these years ahead of their release date, weekly updates from the developers via social media, we can even add our own suggestions and input and when we finally get our hands on the games, walkthrough guides are online, ready and waiting from day one. We can save the game progress at any point we chose, we can download extra content, we can customize to our hearts content, and best of all, we no longer need to take the game out of the machine, blow inside it and tap it on our knee to make it work again. Yet for some of us that know the struggle of the old days, we yearn for them and tell others (and ourselves) that gaming was better back then.
The big boys of gaming (Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo) have a huge, ever growing library of older games in their respective download stores that you can get hold of, which is ideal for the newer generation of gamers to get that retro experience on modern machines. But if you ask us, for the best experience, go out and get the original consoles and games. Plug them into an old style television set and use that awkward controller. Sit cross legged on the floor and re-visit the games you never finished as a kid, could never afford or couldn’t access. Have a gaming marathon with your loved one, your kids or your friends. To add even more value, and to ensure the money you spent on all that retro gear is worth it, you can set yourself challenges. How fast can I complete Zone 3, Act 2 of Sonic The Hedgehog 2? Can I beat my time and score on World 1-1 of Super Mario Bros? Can I collect all of the hidden treasures in Ducktails? You can even go as far as to get involved with the speed run community, where gamers try to beat their favorite games, or complete certain challenges in the fastest possible times, with or without cheats. If you’re especially creative, you can customize and mod your retro console with a new paint job or even a unique design. The possibilities are endless, and even if you just want a casual blast through your favorite old games for a trip down memory lane, the nostalgia rush will be reward enough. Take a break from modern day gaming, pick up the latest releases after a few months when the price will have inevitably dropped anyway. Treat your nostalgia, you won’t regret it.
AAW
TWIN-SET Find your every-day style with Italian fashion house Twin-Set at The Avenues by bazaar staff
Every working woman knows that it’s sometimes so easy to fall into a style rut. We have a variety of styles that can go from professional wear at the office, to casual wear for a day or night out. Nobody knows this better than famous singer Simone Berbieri. Her harmonious style, coupled with smart business sensibilities led her to develop Twin-Set, a clothing line that includes ready-towear garments, accessories, jewelry, lingerie and swimwear and also a clothing line for girls. Brought to us exclusively by leading retailer and purveyors of style, Alyasra Fashion, Twin-Set offers the modern woman everywhere stylish options to suit her everyday needs, and also without a doubt, caters to glamorous wear for any of her important occasions. Since the brand’s inception in the 90s, Twinset is a constantly evolving brand that inspires women to embrace their inner style and showcase 58
their personalities to the world through the way they present themselves. First gaining its foothold in Italy and abroad, Twin-Set progressively expanded its offerings year after year, honing in on the style elements that make for a flawless contemporary look that is always elegant and timeless. Twin-Set also features tailored garments, accessories (shoes, bags, belts etc.), lingerie, beachwear, and a novelty denim collection, in order to offer a complete winning look that can satisfy the needs of a woman always on the lookout for products that are feminine and original. The latest Twin-Set 2015 Spring-Summer collection plays with floral patterns and matches them with emotional shades and prints of great charm. The color gamut is a trip in itself where the most natural and chic shades are combined with
strong tones, as are the workmanship and selection of materials, abounding in movement and brand new surface effects. With this collection the Twin-Set girl strides lightly, saucy, refined, and with the desire to emerge from the crowd thanks to her personal style. Today, Twin-Set is positioned amongst an accessible range of luxury and represents for the market a unique fashion concept, at a stylistic level, its strong identity, and unmistakable image. Get ready to shop Twin-Set from Alyasra Fashion at The Avenues, and give your daily look, whether it's a day at the office or a day out, an added sprinkle of pizzazz. Stay tuned for the latest updates of Twin-Set in Kuwait by following Alyasra Fashion on Instagram @Alyasra. You can also follow the brand’s official Instagram account @Twinsetofficial. Twin-Set is located in the Grand Avenue - The Avenues.
ROLL EXTRAVAGANZA
Rock and roll with our new sushi roll creations.
KATSUYA
Feel the rhythm as Katsuya’s brand new range of sushi rolls take the stage for the first time in the Middle East. Caution! This show is exclusively for sushi lovers.
KatsuyaMiddleEast
Grand Avenue - The Avenues - Tel: +965 2228 3195/6 Arabella, Albida’a, Al-Ta’awn Street - Tel: +965 2221 4985 The Dubai Mall - Tel: +971 4 315 3633/4
The Safat Home Makeover
PART II: OPERATION CONCEPT IN CREATION by bazaar staff
Making the impossible, possible is a task and challenge that Safat Home is ready, willing, and able to take. When we last caught up with the fabulous Safat Home Décor Center team, they introduced us to their lucky couple – Farah AlFadhalah and Bader Al-Sarraf – and their new home-in-the-making. Another day, another mission – while the tasks aren’t getting any easier and the deadline is nearing, still, bazaar and the couple have unconditional faith in Safat Home’s dedicated team! Upon completing a general analysis of the couple’s home, they took a step further and created a space analysis. Armed with the couple’s answers from Safat Home’s survey and a plethora of ideas, concept creation has begun. The identity of the house, as a structure, is something the couple want to preserve. Modernizing 60
the interior and creating a contemporary look while keeping the exterior’s integrity is a must. Going through ideas upon ideas of the ideal representation of what they crave, it suddenly hit them – the Japanese Cherry Blossom, known simply as the Sakura. Being as versatile as they are, Sakura can be found anywhere in the world combining tradition with a modern aesthetic and beauty. With several elements coming together beautifully, it can be used around the house seamlessly – from the actual blossoms, leaves and branches, to the more mystical elements like earth, wind, water and stone. Bringing in the Sakura as one Meta design umbrella for the home will give off an air of Asian mystery while keeping the structure's identity intact. Borrowing inspiration from the colors and textures of the Sakura, Safat Home will be basing
the lighting and materials needed around that. Using the dominant palettes from the tree’s scheme, the coloring will be neutral – shades of gray, white, and black with accents of brown, green, and blue. The pinks and reds of the tree will contrast with the accent colors minimally keeping everything fresh and Zen looking. Several mood boards full of ideas, color schemes, and textural inspirations later, Farah and Bader approved the concept and got to work with Safat Home’s talented Décor Center to make this a reality. Tasks were set up and teams designated to cover the whole design area. Every inch was measured, and no corner left un-ruled. The couple were whisked away to the magical Safat Home Shuwaikh showroom to meet with the kitchen specialists. Gathering ideas with the design team and the specialists, the couple started to pick
Decor Center by Safat Home
the materials they want and the colors they like – consulting with the Safat Home team about what would and wouldn’t work. Hashing out the details and what accessories are needed in the kitchen, the design team and couple are working together to make the space beautiful. Sifting through all the possible layouts with the help of the Décor Center, Farah and Bader found their ideal kitchen and design began in the main kitchen area located in the home’s basement. With that out of the way, the talented team took the couple through the rest of the showroom to get a feel for the fabrics and paint samples that could potentially be used for the living area. With style and function to bear in mind while honoring the home’s original structure, Farah and Bader are working closely with the Safat Home
Décor Center to create the perfect space. Vowing to provide nothing short of the greatest market offerings, Safat Home stocks and supplies all the premium features a home might need. So when the couple decided to swatch paint samples to pick from, Safat Home’s dedicated team brought forth Hempel paint swatches. Illustrations upon illustrations are being created for the couple to approve every design element being put in their home. Tours are being conducted within the showrooms for the couple to select what they like and want for their home. Top-of-the-line designers and products are what can be found in any of the Safat Home showrooms. The talented team of designers at Safat Home along with couple will soon be deciding on their home’s flooring from an impressive selection of parquet and tiles.
Coming up, we’ll be exploring their choices for home furnishings, accessories, and curtains. We can’t wait to see what the couple does next! Can you? Tune in next month for the next exclusive installment of this fabulous journey and find out what happens with the couple’s new home with the help of the country’s top home gurus at Safat Home. The Décor Center can be found at Safat Home’s location in Al Rai and the service will also be available at Safat Home’s newest and largest showroom in Shuwaikh starting this summer. For more information, visit www.safathome.com or call 183 8883. Follow Safat Home on Instagram @SafatHome, Twitter @Safat_home and Facebook: SafatHomebyAlghanim. 61
EN-TIRE-LY FUN by bazaar staff
We all know the deal with the roads and traffic here in Kuwait. It can get pretty busy and pretty noisy out there, especially during peak times. Going to work in the morning is slowed dramatically by school traffic, and a weekend visit to your favorite eatery can be a long drawn out affair. So it should come as no surprise that when it comes to vehicles owned, Kuwaitis are ranked 1st in the Gulf and 6th internationally, with over 1 million cars owned in total in Kuwait. I can tell you’re not too shocked at these stats. Admit it, it’s OK, you’re amongst friends at bazaar! But did you know what happens to the old tires of the cars here in Kuwait? Most of them end up in the ‘tire graveyard’. So imagine the environmental effect of 5,000,000-7,000,000 tires being thrown away, buried or burnt…annually! Tires are nonbiodegradable, so no matter the type of disposal, are hazardous to the environment. The smoke and fumes from the burning causes toxic pollution, burying them is harmful to the earth and ground, and the ones that are simply thrown into a pile and left can collect dirt, rain water and more, and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Thankfully, there is a company making a dent in this ecological issue. En-TIRE-ly Fun is the result of 31 students uniting under one vision, to fulfil their social responsibility toward the environment 62
and society. These guys, paying their dues to the earth, are dedicated to recycling and repurposing used tires into the ‘The Multibase’, which is an environmentally friendly, entertaining, educational, reliable, safe and efficient 3-in-1 product targeted for families and children. This product literally takes old tires and transforms them into new toys. En-TIRE-ly Fun is not only part of the small business class in Kuwait University, but is also part of INJAZ's 12-week company program that they are participating in to compete against 7 other teams. Initially the team’s motivation was to get suitable grades for class and to do their best for the competition in June. Over the course of the company program, they became more attached to the project and became motivated to reach selfsatisfaction. They all grew on an educational, professional and personal level, and The Multibase was born out of that hard work and team effort. The Multibase is 100% recycled and allows children of all ages to use their energy in a fun and productive way by developing their creative and focusing skills. Most importantly, it educates children on the environmental dangers of the incorrect disposal of tires. It’s an all-in-one to keep the children busy, fit and allow them to learn at the same time. So what features does The Multibase include, exactly? Firstly, it acts as a white board,
a surface for kids to draw and write on to develop their creative skills by identifying different colors to color with. En-TIRE-ly Fun also provides finger paints for children to leave their mark on the white-coated recycled tires. Atop this artistic area is a basketball hoop. As one can imagine, and with basketball being an active sport, this part keeps the kids fit and healthy, engages them in fun competition with their friends or siblings, and develops focusing skills. The Multibase is also movable and breaks apart, making it extremely easy to transport. Most importantly, it is educational because it raises the younger generation’s awareness of environmental hazards. The team know that every child is a different height, so with that in mind it can be accustomed to the height of 3 tires on top of each other, or 2 tires. All of this is at the fairly affordable price of 29 KWD. The team has made public appearances on Al Watan TV and at school events, which raised awareness of the product to nurseries and families. Initially, their goal was to sell 32 units over the course of 4 weeks; however, by the second week they had sold double that goal. This included sales to nurseries in Kuwait, and in the Emirates. For more information on the En-TIRE-ly Fun initiative, you can contact the team on 9730 6948, or find them on Instragram @entirely_fun.
TRIWA
Baitak Tower: 22257908 Behbehani Complex: 22403954 Symphony Mall: 22441614 www.ybsco.net
@behbehani1938 @behbehani1938 www.facebook.com/YBSCO
LIU JO IN KUWAIT
Italian chic arrives from Alyasra Fashion Formal items for the daytime reveal to be unexpectedly comfortable and versatile in every situation. The brand boasts collections inspired by vintage trends and interwoven with modern twists and tastes, creating an exciting form of contemporary urban style for all moments of life. Exquisite details and cuts, merging textures and colors, balancing steadfast styles and newthat is the synthesis behind Liu Jo. Built on the design visions of Marco and Yanni, the creative philosophy is devoted to the enhancement of the natural femininity and beauty of every woman. The fashion line pays homage to a pragmatic and concrete entrepreneurial vision that is deeply rooted in the solid experience and know-how of Italy and the Carpi area. Liu Jo remains loyal to its most authentic traditions – an Italian style that expresses elegance and reliability, class and seduction. The latest Liu Jo collection launched for Spring/Summer 2015 is for the modern woman; subtly elegant yet fashionably aware. The collection is filled with muted neutrals and rich shades, sleek and slim fitted items mixed with voluminous silhouettes, an urban style fit for every woman. Liu Jo is located in the Grand Avenue – The Avenues (Accessories and Footwear collections) and The Gate Mall (All collections). For more information, follow Alyasra Fashion on Instagram @alyasra and Liu Jo @LiuJoGlobal.
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EASTPAK
bazaar goes dining
AZUMAMI SUSHI Contemporary Japanese dining in the heart of the city by bazaar staff
Edamame Salad
Azumami Sushi There’s something special happening at Sharq’s Dar Al-Awadhi center. Once a bustling corporate shopping center, the business tower is actually undergoing a very local makeover. Today, the mall is alive with local startup businesses that provide for amazing services. From a dedicated up-end bakala, a gluten-free bakery and hair salon, the famous Karak Gholam, to some delectable eateries located in the basement floor. If you’re in the mood for contemporary Japanese fare and find yourself driving around the city, then be sure to head to the newly opened Azumami Sushi. This tranquil establishment will offer an incredibly pleasant experience. Founded and managed by Japanese cuisine lovers, and awesome husband and wife couple, Anwar and Lulwa Al-Ayoub, Azumami Sushi arrives as the couple’s take on achieving the perfect balance between modern fusion-filled dishes and traditional favorites. As soon as you arrive, your mood will instantly be uplifted by the restaurant’s color scheme of 66
Kappa Labna mellow orange and earthy greens, offset by the interior’s relaxing lighting. You can choose to sit indoors and watch the expert team of chefs prepare your food, or dine outside to take in the center’s bustling business vibes. Its location is perfect for those long business lunches, and makes for an ideal meeting place for friends to meet after a long workday in the city. Anwar told bazaar that Azumami Sushi is not his first attempt as a restaurateur. If anything, he’s pioneered the Japanese cuisine dining scene at a time when Kuwait’s local diners did not have a palate for sushi. When it came to opening Azumami Sushi, he and Lulwa focused on delivering a menu that utilized the best quality local ingredients along with freshly imported seafood. We loved the couple’s transparency in discussing their ingredients, and a cursory visit to the restaurant’s Instagram account shows them posting about the cuts of seafood that arrive at the restaurant on a daily basis.
Don’t be fooled by the notion that Azumami Sushi is just another Japanese concept in Kuwait. If anything, their signature offerings will instantly have you hooked, and you’ll find yourself coming back time and time again to this cozy dining destination. This goes down to the fact that their dishes are consistently spectacular, due to a kitchen-full of qualified chefs and not kitchen assistants. We allowed our palates to be tantalized, and we were not disappointed! Anwar and Lulwa started us off with the Azu Chirashi, a salad-starter hybrid dish that features layer upon layer of torch-flamed salmon, crab salad, flash-broiled prawns on top of crispy rice. We loved the freshness of this dish, and it could definitely be enjoyed hot or cold. For fusion lovers, the Kappa Labna is a healthful must-try! Hollowed out cucumbers make for the delectable basin for salmon, creamy and ideally sour Labneh, avocado, fresh mint leaves and crunchy rice all drizzled with an addictive wasabi olive oil dressing. The clever mix of
Making of Aburi
Azu Chirashi textures and flavors made for an awesome surprise. We instantly noticed that the dishes at Azumami Sushi are definitely light, and a refreshing break from mayo-drenched offerings that restaurants commonly feature. Even the mayonnaise that Azumami Sushi includes in certain dishes, like the Spicy Japanese Mayo dressing for the delightful Edamame Salad, is homemade, which immediately offers a lighter flavor to the entire dish. The salad includes crunchy edamame, kani sticks, rocket leaves, green apple, tobiko and crispy harusame. We equally enjoyed the Crispy Salad that features yummy cassava chips and offers wasabi lovers an olive oil dressing infused with wasabi. We always love it when we see fresh O’Toro on the menu. Our team of editors is addicted to it! The major issue that we face in Kuwait is the lack of fresh supply of this very exclusive cut of Tuna belly filled with healthy omega-3s and good fats. We ordered our O’Toro in sashimi format and we were not disappointed. Anwar also invited us to
Date Cake try their signature Azumami Sushi, which includes torch-flamed salmon wrapped around crunchy Japanese rice and topped with avocado and olive oil wasabi sauce, prawn tempura and artfully placed fresh thyme leaves. This was, by far, our favorite rendition of a dish that flawlessly blends Middle Eastern and Asian flavors. If you’re a fan of spicier offerings, then the Salmon Aburi and Spicy Salmon Sushi will make for excellent options; the twist of including fresh chili and crunchy sesame seeds made for a smart combination when it came to the Salmon Aburi. The second star of the evening was without a doubt the Spicy Baked Crab Maki, as its preparation using real crab and salmon when combined with their signature spicy sauce, made for a truly memorable experience! We were also delighted to see that Azumami Sushi’s menu did not fail to include Temaki offerings, where the fusion Temaki brings together prawn tempura, kani sticks, tobiko, avocado and seasonal vegetables. If you’re an unagi lover, then the Crunchy
Eel Temaki is perfect for you! New on Azumami Sushi’s menu is their signature take on the burger. Using finely ground sirloin cut beef; the gourmet burger arrives in different renditions that suit the spicier palate with wasabi, as well as a classic offering, all prepared in custom-made brioche bread. For dessert, spoil yourself at Azumami with their scrumptious Tiramisu. If you’re looking to indulge, then go for their sticky toffee and date cake and reward yourself with its moreish flavors. If, like us, you love mixing fruit and chocolate, then their banana fritters presented alongside vanilla bean ice cream and chocolate sauce will surely please the senses. Get your fix from Azumami Sushi and head to the basement floor of Dar Al-Awadhi. If you fancy experiencing their Japanese fare within the comforts of your own home, order via www.talabat.com. For their latest updates, you can follow them on Instagram @Azumami_Sushi. 67
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YOUR WARDROBE GOT 99 PROBLEMS…
But the beach ain’t one of them, thanks to American Eagle Outfitters! by bazaar staff Inspired by California’s forever-summer attitude, the latest summer collection by American Eagle Outfitters delivers yet another awesome marketing campaign that comes alive with carefree individuals on the sunny coast of San Diego, California. AEO’s summer “APRES SURF” collection screams bohostyle complete with florals, fringe, crochet and of course destroyed denim. No matter where you are, you’ll feel like you are in sunny California with AEO! Girls can let their inner hippy shine in feminine fringe, lace and crochet. The collection showcases shades of white, cream and natural tones. For girls who like a little more color, the collection offers 68
ethnic island prints and bright accessories. Other summer essentials include cotton muscle T-shirts and tanks, textured kimonos, printed skirts and comfy rompers. Being America’s favorite jeans brand, denim is still a big part of the collection. Girls can enjoy a variety of denim shorts with color crochet, prints, embroidery, heavy destroyed and patching. When you are not at the beach, slip into sun-faded and destroyed denim crops. AEO has all the essentials a guy needs for the ultimate summer vacation. It’s all about tropical surf this season with a variety of shorts, beach graphics and tanks. Guys will be able to stand out and rock
the color block and bright stripes in AEO timeless T-shirts. Pair a T-shirt with geo-print board shorts and you’re ready to hit the beach! An AEO men’s collection would not be complete without tipped polos, oxford shirts, classic shorts and destroyed denim. Guys can choose from a variety of denim this season. They can rock destroyed denim with the new AEO wear and repair denim line. American Eagle Outfitters is located at 1st Avenue – The Avenues, The Mall – The Avenues, as well as Marina Mall. For further information please call 182 1212.
TONI & GUY
bazaar music “Music can change the world because it can change people.” ~ Bono
by Mumford & Sons
WILDER MIND
by Roisin Murphy
HAIRLESS TOYS
HELL OR HIGHWATER
Wilder Mind is the third studio album by British folk rock band Mumford & Sons. On their new album Mumford & Sons have mostly removed their signature elements – banjo, acoustic strumming, stomping kick drum – and replaced them with U2-sized guitars, synths, spacey mellotrons and even some drum machines. "We felt that doing the same thing, or the same instrumentation again, just wasn’t for us. We’ve got a broader taste in music than just that. None of us had really any interest in doing a sort of Babel 2. It was always going to be different."
Since leaving Moloko (the group behind 90s hits ‘Sing It Back’ and ‘The Time Is Now’), Roisin Murphy has released two solo albums – 2005’s Ruby Blue and 2007’s Overpowered. Hairless Toys is Murphy’s third solo album, which is available this month. News of this forthcoming album was led by the new track, “Gone Fishing”, a delicate, minimal electronic ballad. Murphy has also announced a string of live shows to couple the launch. In a statement, Murphy explained how the song, and much of the album, was inspired by the 1990 documentary Paris Is Burning and the outcasts who could never fit into mainstream society.
David Duchovny will release his first album of music, Hell or Highwater, this spring. Yes, that is the same David Duchovny of X-Files fame, aka Agent Fox Mulder. Here, in his first venture into music, we get a record containing 12 songs that the actor composed himself. With the album on its way, right now is a very busy time for Duchovny. He's written an "allegorical story" in the form of a novel, Holy Cow, which came out earlier this year. And he has also signed on to do a limited run of new X-Files episodes.
SATURNS PATTERN
BUSH
by David Duchovny
EXPLAINS
by Paul Weller
by Snoop Dogg
by Little Wings
Saturn's Pattern, which will be released this month, was written and recorded at Black Barn Studios in Surrey, England and produced by Jan Kybert and Weller himself. The record will be Weller's 12th album and the follow-up to 2012's Sonik Kicks. Musicians on the record include Steve Cradock, Andy Crofts, Ben Gordelier, Steve Pilgrim, Syd Arthur and The Strypes' Josh McClorey. Weller previously said that Saturn's Pattern is "one of the best things I've done". He added: "I can't compare it to any of my other albums. I think it's different not just for me, but different from what else is around."
BUSH is the upcoming thirteenth studio album by American rapper Snoop Dogg (who was Snoop Lion after he was Snoop Dogg, which he is again now… it’s a complicated history), which is due for release this month by I Am Other and Columbia Records. The album was entirely produced by Pharrell Williams, and has the confirmed participation of Stevie Wonder, Charlie Wilson, and other noted musicians in the R&B genre. Snoop says the album is set to be a departure from the material the duo has done in the past. Snoop says. "It’s completely different from anything we’ve ever done. It feels good, sounds good, looks good.”
Kyle Field, professionally known as Little Wings, is a living legend. He is the modern embodiment of the traveling bard and the singing troubadour. Kyle's discography is vast and impressive, full of tunes that are plucked from the lexicon of great American songwriting. On his latest effort, EXPLAINS, he crafts melodies so haunting and familiar; it's as if he's not composing them at all. He is tapping into something greater, acting as a vessel for the collective unconscious that is folk music. This is an album that is immediately accessible and also unfolds slowly, revealing greater depth with each listen.
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PF CHANGS
Zuzu Cape Jacket
Alia Tassled Skirt Aladdin Off the Shoulder Top
Tala Oversized Tassled Jumper
Jasmine Vest Top
Milli Removable Tassled Skirt
GLOBAL STYLE WITH ALL THINGS MOCHI by bazaar staff
Inspired by the world and utilizing embroidered fabrics from exotic lands, Mochi was born to support stitching communities and their talented work worldwide. Founded by Ayah Tabari, the designer and her team travel to different destinations around the globe to design and produce each collection. In doing so, All Things Mochi supports small communities by creating jobs and opportunities 72
for work among these women in the hopes of contributing to their well-being, standard of living and purchasing power. The key pieces developed based on the country of location, like Thailand and Hungary, are definitely one a kind, as only a limited number of pieces are produced for each collection. In this edition of fashionality, not only do we interview the brand’s inspiring founder, but we
also take a closer look at the Mochi Palestine collection. Mochi is proud to have used ancient bright colored embroidery to create tribal chic collections from India, Thailand, Budapest and Palestine. Focusing on a cultural journey by creating modern trend silhouettes, they effortlessly merge eastern and western sensibilities and encourage talent from the communities.
fashionality
Ayah Tabari
DESIGNER INTERVIEW Does fashion ‘make’ the person or does the person ‘make’ fashion? I personally think that the person makes the fashion. It's how you wear it, not what it is or which designer it is by. Individuality is key. How would you describe your style? I’d say I am quirky but sophisticated, having studied in Europe but spent most of my life living in Dubai, I think I communicate both elements in my style. How do you get inspiration for your style? Travel plays a big part in how I get inspired and is also how All Things Mochi began. I love taking different parts of different cultures and expressing them in how I dress. From accessories, to dresses, I have special pieces from all around the world. What does it take to become a style innovator? I think it just takes doing something a bit different and also taking a risk. What’s exciting right now in fashion? Everything is in – I think for the first time tassels have come back, denim is in, flares, culottes, you name it, you can wear it! I think it is also a very exciting time for emerging talent as there are a lot of young designers on the scene, everyone is wondering who will be the next big thing! Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence? The communities I have worked with to create Mochi is definitely one, as it is so inspiring to see how starting Mochi has contributed positively to their wellbeing by providing monetary benefits. Another is my mum, she has always been so stylish – as a child I was mesmerized by her beautiful style and pieces. Who are your favorite emerging designers, and what is it that you love about them? I have a few – internationally I think the Brit brand Shrimps is doing exceptionally well – the concept is very cool and then locally, Bambah – Maha is a good friend of mine and is also putting herself on the international fashion ladder. What is the highlight of your ‘style’ career so far? Every day is a highlight, watching designs go from production to finish but in the last year I would say the two biggest is winning 'Best Regional Designer’ at the Grazia Style Awards and dressing Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid. Every fashionality has as a style obsession, what’s yours? It might sound a bit random but I am obsessed with trainers and Nike Air Max. Do you follow any fashion influencers (Instagram/Blogs etc)? If so, who are they and which would you recommend? Yes since I built All Things Mochi as a social brand I am very up to date on what fashionistas are doing both locally and globaly as it is very important to always be ahead of the curve. My two favorites are Man Repeller and My Fash Diary, I think Leandra is amazing and being from Dubai, Tala (My Fash Dairy) is really giving bloggers from our region a chance to shine locally and internationally. What item of clothing (if any) do you wish that people wore more often? Um, that is a tricky question but I would say a good pair of jeans, you can never go wrong! To be stylish is to be fashionable. True or False and why? False, to be stylish you don’t always have to follow the trend – it's fun to be daring! Shop All Things Mochi at www.allthingsmochi.com and you can also follow them on Instagram @allthingsmochi. 73
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by bazaar staff Are you starting your own business and need to save money? Do you want to test the sometimes turbulent waters of the business world first before you sign a lease for an office space or get a mortgage for a building? An office at home may be acceptable for your startup business, but when you’re trying to impress clients, that home-like feel can take your business image down a notch. With The Premiere Executive Center, however, you can achieve the highly desirable professional business environment at a competitive cost. Whether you need a professional address to impress your clients, a place to conduct meetings when you’re ready to close the deal or a professional receptionist to answer your calls, The Premiere Executive Center’s office services is the perfect place for you. The Center, which was initially founded in 2005, provides the platform for the elite, quality driven professional and entrepreneur to conduct their business effectively, efficiently and economically in the best available executive office services in the country. The logo of the Center, an embossed triangle made up of small triangles, embodies the strength of the brand defining: Reliability, Quality & Professionalism. Premiere is dedicated to meet the service needs of its clients. It understands that each client
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is different and that each customer has different business requirements at different times. It provides you with comprehensive office services of different types so you do not have to worry about searching, setting up, recruitment etc. With its two floor complex including 4 fully serviced meeting rooms for easy and customizable service set up. In a traditional way you may incur many different costs such as, makeover cost, recruitment, furnishing, infrastructure cost, office equipment cost etc. Not to forget the monthly expenses that won’t stop coming, like monthly rent, office maintenance and service charges, utility bills, staff salaries, administrative cost, security cost etc. At The Premiere Executive Center you will only have to consider one cost – professional business office services which are provided to you by the Center. The Premiere Executive Center focuses on providing the Best Quality Office Services to its clients. Premiere recognizes the importance of focusing on the services it provides. The staff at Premiere is trained to meet all business service needs of their clients through the Premiere Quality Management System. The Center is open 24 hours for easy access to authorized personnel. Premiere understands the
importance of privacy and to ensure this critical facet CCTV cameras are installed and also have guard security system. Premiere also provides administrative services, cleaning services as well as maintenance services. The center also have specialized services that allows the holding of seminars, training, exhibition, presentations or even events. Premiere focuses on giving the best service for a productive working environment for any entrepreneur. The company also assists with communication services such as telephone answering and handling incoming messages. Also, you have Wi-Fi connection at your disposal, further providing interested entrepreneurs with IT infrastructure and support. To experience The Premiere Executive Center is like finding “an Oasis of professionalism in the complex world of business”.
The Premiere Executive Center is located in the Kuwait Free Trade Zone, Future Zone, Plot A.59 & A.60, Shuwaikh Industrial Area (P.O. Box 42146, Shuwaikh 70652, Kuwait). For more information please email them at office@premierekuwait.com or visit their website: www.premierekuwait.com. You can also call them on 2461 0073.
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NO CHANGE WITHOUT CHANGE by Dr. Susannah J. Schuilenberg
It seems rather obvious to say, “If nothing changes, everything stays the same,” but the reality is we live as if this truth doesn’t apply to our situation. How many times have you heard someone complain or get upset about a circumstance that you personally know has been the same for ages? You can almost repeat the complaint word-for-word as the other person works his/her way through the familiar lament. Sometimes, we think (and maybe even say if you’re me), “If you don’t like ____ [whatever the situation is] why don’t you change it?” Usually, the response is something like, “I can’t.” Either the individual doesn’t know what to do, is discouraged, or isn’t truly invested in making things different. When clients come to see me they are often frustrated or unhappy about what seems like a perpetual problem; a situation that happens over and over again. No matter how often they vow never to let ____ happen again, it does. One of the first things we talk about is the willingness to do something different. This seems simple, but in truth, we are creatures of habit and only reluctantly acknowledge the need to DO something different (quite often because we’re forced to). We are complex creatures – we think, feel, and act. When we try to make changes without involving all of those areas, it’s very difficult to sustain the effort. Think about the decision to quit smoking. I can decide to quit smoking, but if I don’t actually take action it’s highly unlikely I’ll be successful in quitting. We need to act on the choices we make. So here’s the deal: #1 Don’t flip over the Monopoly board. Identify 76
the problem you want to solve. Start small. ‘Nibble’ at the edges of the problem by figuring out what is one small change you can make in your regular habits that you can sustain. That’s the key. Don’t try to implement any change that you aren’t positive you’ll be able to do. Think again about the smoking. If you decide you’re going to quit, you start by eliminating your 3 o’clock smoke break, and go for a walk instead. And you do that for two weeks, then eliminate your 10 o’clock smoke, and so on, until you’ve tapered off over time, to the point where you can pick a date and STOP smoking. #2 Make your goals achievable, intentional, and measurable (AIM). The long-term goal needs to be something you can actually do, something that you want to do, and it needs to be finite enough for you to be able to say, “Yes! I did that.” Paradoxically, your short-term goal needs to be more finite – like a small chunk of the big goal. I started on the journey to change my lifestyle so that I would be able to be active with my grandsons. I decided I would become as healthy as I could possibly be. That became my open-ended goal. The short-term goals included weight loss, committing to at least 3 workouts/week, and finding solutions to specific health issues. #3 Lose the “All or Nothing” thinking. The absolute enemy of change is a black and white mindset. If we slip up and go back to the old habit, so many of us just give up. This type of thinking gets us into trouble in all sorts of ways, but never more quickly than when we’re trying to change something. The reality of life is that no one is perfect. Life isn’t perfect. When my clients tell me,
“I messed up on Monday and just gave up. What’s the point if I can’t even do _____ for one day?” I tell them, “You mean, life happened?” The ability to be kind to yourself is a huge advantage in life. When you mess up, remind yourself that perfection is not required, a slip is not a fall, and a fall is not defeat. Mentally dust yourself off, and carry on with the new action. #4 Celebrate small successes. Every. Single. One. If you normally smoke 30 cigarettes a day (210/week), and you decide to taper off on the way to quitting, and this week you get to the end of the week and have only puffed 200 cancer-sticks, rejoice! That’s 10 less than you normally smoke. Take yourself out for a date. Get that pair of jeans you wanted. Buy a new piece of bling. Meet a friend for dinner and tell him/her why you’re celebrating. DO something to acknowledge to yourself the effort you’ve made. I’d love to hear (drsusannah@wacs.ca) how a choice you’ve put into action has changed something for you. P.S. If you really are trying to quit smoking, remember this. Research shows that nicotine is one of the most difficult substances to stop using. The more help and support you put into place, the better…and make a reasonable timeline. Some people can quit “cold turkey” but others do better with harm reduction. Reducing over time. Someone smoking thirty years might be successful over a time line of six months, whereas they’ve been unable to be successful by suddenly quitting. If you want to quit, try again but this time, Do. Something. Different.
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SAFAT HOME
inside/out
CLARITA DE QUIROZ 78
by bazaar staff
Clarita de Quiroz's first solo album, Speak. Delete.Repeat., has just been released on Sony Music. The UAE-born artist has composed most of the music on the new album and co-written the songs with Dubai-based Scottish singer/ songwriter, Mike Ross. Fresh off her performance opening for Paolo Nutini at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, she looks forward to her next steps playing shows in support of this new record. Born in Abu Dhabi she spent the vast majority of her life in Scotland. She is a classically trained pianist, percussionist, vocalist and model and has so far opened for such notable acts as Sir Elton John, Roger Sanchez, Macy Gray, Kelly Roland, Gabrielle and the Sugababes, to name a few. We sat down with Clarita to find out what inspires and influences her. How did you first get into music? I started playing the piano from the age of four. This then progressed to singing at the age of 10 and then percussion when I was 15. At the beginning, it was more of a thing my parents made me do, but then as I got older, I soon realized it was a massive part of my personality and daily routine. What/Who inspires your music and why? To be honest, instrumental music and classical music influences me the most. I believe this happens because that’s how I was trained and all I listened to. Even now, I put on Classic FM when I am in the car. I love film score music also and most of the music on my iTunes is classical, film score music or my favorite band – Muse! How did you get into your style of music specifically? My genre is hard to describe. It does have pop elements, but it is very much structured around classical music and soul. I think my music sound is probably what would happen if you mixed Muse with Alicia Keys! Very different. It is a very piano-based album, however it does have a lot of production in some of the songs such as “Don’t Say That” and “Bring Me Down.” I’ve tried to keep a balance as I do think this album reflects the type of music I like to listen to. What other experiences have you had with recording and releasing music? I released an album in 2012 called These Words with a DJ / Producer Dion Mavath. This was a house album and is very different to what I have done as a solo artist. This was a lot of fun, I still enjoy listening to this album but I feel as a musician (and not just a singer/songwriter) this showcases more of what I do in terms of live performance and composition. Previous to this, I have not released anything official so this is all new as a solo artist. Tell us about your experience as a classically trained pianist… I absolutely adore the piano. I always want to learn more and train harder as we can always get better! It was tough growing up. The exams, the lessons, the struggle for perfection at an instrument, was hard at such a young age. I was massively passionate in my teens with piano and ended up winning regional competitions and prizes on a regular basis. It encouraged me to go further with music, however I was never sure how to go about it. I used to spend my break time and lunch times in the
music rooms composing concertos for two reasons really: I loved music and I feared other humans at the time – bit of a geek! My piano teacher was very strict which I now thank her for, but yes, I certainly don’t miss those exams. Even after doing an MA degree in Economics, no exam to date in my life has been harder than the piano exams I had to sit. Now I would say piano composition and playing is my means of relaxation, and my first tool to compose anything, whether it be a song with words, or just an instrumental. In your opinion, what was the hardest challenge you have faced in your artistic career so far? There have been so many! So, hard to choose one. I suppose the honest answer would be having to commercialize in some ways. I think if I had put less thought and more heart into the album, the result would have been a lot different. Not to say I don’t like commercial music in any way, it just makes me think of the bigger picture and the audience more. Another challenge has been creating a musical fictional character. “Clarita de Quiroz” is quite fictional to me as when I am on stage, on social media, etc. I feel I am a different person. The inner school geek in me would crumble I suppose! I am quite a shy person but I don’t really show it on stage. How has the Middle Eastern world reacted to your music? I would say the public and the media have been great! They have supported me for years, which I can’t thank them enough for. I’ve only encountered positive encouragement which makes me think I am in the right career. I have performed three times so far, and each time has been a pleasure. It makes me always want to return! I am working on Arabic collaborations to help the exposure over here in the Middle East. Is there a prevailing message you are trying to communicate with your music? I would say my main messages have been from life experience, so they vary from song to song. I find it hard to write fiction so I write about my experiences. Some of them are romantic, and others are about just battling through obstacles in life and keep on going! What is your dream for your music / what would you like to accomplish in the future? My dream would be to keep composing and writing. Travelling, singing only my own original material, and making people smile with it! More international collaborations would be a bonus too. What is your favorite show you have ever played? My favorite gig hands down was the support act to Sir Elton John in 2012 in Abu Dhabi. That was an experience and a half! The audience was silent during the show and screaming at the end. I still think about this gig! I wish I had one of these every week. How has the record been received so far? The album went straight to number one on the first day on the iTunes pop albums chart. That was such a great feeling! You can follow Clarita on Twitter and Instagram: @claritadequiroz or on Facebook: claritadequirozofficial. You can also learn more information by visiting to her website: www.claritadequiroz.com.
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ESCAPISM When all else fails – turn left by bazaar staff
Every once in a while, we all want to escape. Not the metaphoric “Oh I’m done with reality, pass me a book” escape – but an actual one. To travel to uncharted territories, go on an adventure, or simply just get lost in your own city. Throughout this issue, you’ll have stumbled across a few of those who went out and did exactly that. But in this column, we explore the deeper meanings behind those who have created worlds about escapism. The likes of Verne, Lewis, and Clarke are amongst the greats that created such worlds. I mean, who else would come up with an entire world in a children’s wardrobe other than Lewis? So to honor those who have created such elaborate escapes and worlds within worlds, I bring to you the escapism bookworms edition. This post is entirely sponsored and inspired by a conversation with a colleague that started with “Disclaimer: I totally live in a fantasy world in my head,” and the t-shirt quote “Me? Crazy? I should get down off this unicorn and slap you!” My first choice for this edition is a kiddie book favorite, The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. Yes it has illustrations, yes it’s short, and yes it’s for children – but it’s amazing. The issues it raises might go right over a child’s head but it really makes you think as an adult. The story revolves around Milo, a bored child and his boring afterschool routine – his words, not mine. Tired of everything around him, and unimpressed by almost everything, he receives 80
a mysterious package. Upon assembling the contents of the package – a tollbooth – he gets into his electric toy car and drives through it expecting nothing more than the usual humdrum. To his notso-mundane surprise, he finds himself on the road to Dictionopolis in the Lands Beyond. Teaming with a dog-clock named Tock – Milo escapes his boredom by playing word games and learning math all in an attempt to save the Kingdom of Wisdom before making it home in time for supper. From Juster to Carroll, our next great escape takes us to terribly wonderful: Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland. With Alice In Wonderland and Through The Looking-Glass, Alice escapes her boring life by following a fully clothed rabbit that whizzes past her while exclaiming “I’m late!” So naturally, once said rabbit goes through the rabbit hole, Alice follows. Upon eating and drinking all that’s presented in front of her with the respective “EAT ME” and “DRINK ME” tags, she shrinks, grows, cries, and eventually finds herself in Wonderland. Escaping the wrath of the Red Queen, saving the kingdom, and befriending the Mad Hatter are no easy tasks. Years later, she goes back to Wonderland through a looking-glass – in an attempt to escape an oppressed and unimaginative life above. Dark and sinister things have befallen her much-loved land, but Alice is, after all, Wonderland’s saviour. This time tasked with defeating the merciless Jabberwocky, Alice once again dances around
her existence and that of Wonderland, ultimately saving it. She returns once again to an appropriate reality where she goes on to greater things. After all, Alice is known to “sometimes believe as many as six impossible things before breakfast!” And finally, I give unto you Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere. Following suit as the aforementioned literature – the unassuming Richard Mayhew finds himself sucked into London Below and forgotten in London Above when his mundane lifestyle gets to him. A thrilling adventure awaits him as he comes to the rescue of a not-so-damsel-in-distress, addressed by the general public of London Below as Lady Door, and is suddenly unable to reintegrate into his “normal life.” Battling the fabled monster in London’s sewers, escaping henchmen from the dawn of time, and conversing with the Earl at Earls Court are all part of his new life in the city of those who have fallen between the cracks. But beware, for once you’ve read this book, there’s no turning back. London as you know it will forever change for you and it’ll only be a matter of time till you treat the book’s words as law. Because let’s face it, Gaiman’s Neverwhere is London’s ultimate guidebook. It was a matter of time till the books got to me. Escapism is a recurring literary theme in most of my reads – it could be the reality. See you next month with travel related reads! …I found myself turning right, and then I woke up – for it was all a dream.
PEI WEI
bazaar movie night The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in May
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD
FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD
TOMORROWLAND
Release Date: May 14 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Thriller Cast: Tom Hardy/Charlize Theron
Release Date: May 14 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama Cast: Carey Mulligan/Tom Sturridge
Release Date: May 21 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Mystery, Sci-Fi Cast: George Clooney/Judy Greer
Synopsis: An apocalyptic story set in the furthest reaches of our planet, in a stark desert landscape where humanity is broken, and almost everyone is crazed fighting for the necessities of life. Within this world exist two rebels on the run who just might be able to restore order. There's Max, a man of action and a man of few words, who seeks peace of mind following the loss of his wife and child in the aftermath of the chaos. And Furiosa, a woman of action and a woman who believes her path to survival may be achieved if she can make it across the desert back to her childhood homeland.
Synopsis: Set in Victorian England, Far from the Madding Crowd is the story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching wilfulness; Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a prosperous and mature bachelor. This timeless story of Bathsheba's choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love – as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance.
Synopsis: The newest movie by Walt Disney and written by Damon Lindelof (writer and director of Lost). Bound by a shared destiny, a bright, optimistic teen bursting with scientific curiosity and a former boy-genius inventor jaded by disillusionment, embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space that exists in their collective memory as Tomorrowland. Walt Disney Pictures originally announced the film under the working title 1952 until it was retitled, giving speculation that the film is based on the futuristic themed land found at Disney theme parks.
SPY
SAN ANDREAS
BUS 657
Release Date: May 21 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Comedy Cast: Jason Statham/Rose Byrne
Release Date: May 28 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller Cast: Dwayne Johnson/Alexandra Daddario,
Release Date: May 28 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama, Horror, Thriller Cast: Robert De Niro/Dave Bautista
Synopsis: Susan Cooper (Melissa McCarthy) is an unassuming, deskbound CIA analyst, and the unsung hero behind the Agency's most dangerous missions. But when her partner (Jude Law) falls off the grid and another top agent (Jason Statham) is compromised, she volunteers to go deep undercover to infiltrate the world of a deadly arms dealer, and prevent a global crisis. Other stars to feature include Miranda Hart as Nancy, Bobby Cannavale as De Luca, Allison Janney as Elaine Crocker and 50 Cent as himself.
Synopsis: This year’s summer blockbuster is here, albeit a little early. In this upcoming American disaster film directed by Brad Peyton and written by Allan Loeb, Carlton Cuse, Carey Hayes and Chad Hayes, comes a story based on the original script by Jeremy Passmore and Andre Fabrizio. The film stars Dwayne Johnson, Kylie Minogue, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario, and Paul Giamatti. In the aftermath of a massive earthquake in California, a rescue-chopper pilot and his ex-wife make a dangerous journey across the state in order to rescue their estranged daughter.
Synopsis: Bus 657 is an upcoming American heist thriller film directed by Scott Mann and written by Stephen Cyrus Sepher and Max Adams, based on the original story by Sepher. The film is about a casino card dealer with a past, who puts a crew together to rob a bank and hijack a city bus as collateral. The film centers on a father without the means to pay for his daughter’s medical treatment. As a last resort, he partners with a greedy co-worker to rob a casino and the two hijack a bus full of hostages, and things go awry.
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For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest you, visit: Cinescape: www.cinescape.com.kw or Facebook: Cinescape – Kuwait National Cinema Company. *Above programs are subject to change without prior notice.
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SMOOTH AS
SILKOR
Local artist Coco enjoys an afternoon of beauty at Silkor Kuwait by bazaar staff
Staying beautiful and paying close attention to your skin care routine might not be at the top of your to-do list. Still, you’ve been longing to spoil yourself for some time now but you’re still worried about finding the right medical center and not just your average spa to carry out your required skincare treatments. Before you know it, summer is here, your body and your skin are a mess and you’re not prepared! If this sounds familiar, you should know that you are definitely not alone. Women from all walks of life are faced with this conundrum, and your degree of organization, multitasking abilities or workload does not change this reality. For Carol Souki a.k.a. Coco, a locally much-loved singer and songwriting performing artist in Kuwait, finding the time to write and create her beautiful music, go to work, carry out her music therapy sessions, while still managing to look beautiful and feel amazing while performing, is a problem. In fact, 84
it is a problem that is faced by women everywhere. When Carol learned that one of her favorite and most trusted medical clinics from Lebanon, Silkor Laser Medical Center, had opened their doors in Kuwait, she couldn’t resist an invitation to visit the facility for an afternoon of much needed TLC and the latest cutting edge medical treatments carried out by licensed professionals. Renowned regionally as the best destination for all things beauty, Silkor arrives to Kuwait as part of a leading chain of laser hair removal; laser medicoaesthetic and skin care services centers. Silkor is famous for its medical skincare treatments that promote smoother, more radiant skin, for both men and women. Even the institute’s name, a clever play on words that combines the English word ‘Silk’, and ‘Corps’ in French, says it all! When it came to Coco’s choice of treatment, a careful consultation and skin test with the center’s
team of experts led her to try out their latest Diamond Micro-Dermabrasion (DMD) system, a facial treatment that gently exfoliates the skin by using Natural Diamond Chips, while at the same time removing via vacuuming, the dead skin cells away. All of this takes place in a beautifully serene treatment room, complete with fresh orchids and relaxing music. Before the treatment, Coco’s skin was tired; even she has noticed how her more than hectic schedule took a toll on her skin. She said, “I was so stressed out, and when presented with the idea of the treatment, I was so excited and hopeful to see if the promise of baby soft skin was real. I went home that night still amazed at how perfectly smooth my skin felt!” The treatment first involves preparing the skin by cleaning it thoroughly; this is followed by the DMD using the special diamond encased wand, a facial massage, followed by a deep cleaning mask. Because every skin type is
different, your treatment is actually tailored to your needs, and you could see the result of the DMD after it is completed—layers upon layers of dead skin cells are shed, leaving you only with a healthy, youthful glow and baby soft skin! With skincare treatments like DMD and Mesotherapy, Silkor is known for their peels, facials and eye treatments. More importantly, Silkor prides itself on its aspirations to provide customers the latest, and safest, in laser hair removal. Because Coco was also offered to try out the laser hair removal treatment, she found the staff to be highly educated on the matter. She said, “They are extremely knowledgeable, and they really dispelled a lot of the myths associated with laser hair removal. When it came to both treatments I tried, the team at Silkor notified and advised me on how to proceed with the my skincare routine before and after each treatment. I felt no pain!” Expertly trained
medical professionals and not assistants perform all of the laser treatments at Silkor, and a licensed dermatologist serves as a medical director in overseeing the treatments offered to Silkor’s clients. The importance of educating clients about the treatments they are about to undertake, could not be more highlighted. When speaking with the branch manager at Silkor Kuwait, Hala Assaf, we learned that Silkor actually educates clients about hair growth patterns, and how it is affected by any type of treatment during the free consultation session usually offered to clients. If you’re looking to get your face and body ready for the summer, than look no further than Silkor Kuwait, located at the Cliffs building in Salmiya next to Toni & Guy. Make sure that you take advantage of their great offers for this summer. Once you’ve experienced the quality, and level of dedication offered by Silkor’s team of experts, you will find yourself not only enjoying your
newly found beauty routine – you’ll be taking perfect care of your skin in no time. Established in Beirut Lebanon in 1997, Silkor is an industry pioneer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Treatments are performed by highly skilled dermatologists and medical practitioners and take place in a relaxed comforting atmosphere. Silkor addresses customer needs with the most advanced, proven, non-invasive medical and aesthetic technology. Silkor enhances the personal wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem of its customers in a safe and professional environment. Silkor Kuwait is located in the Cliffs building in Salmiya. For more information, call 2575 7606 or 6551 0623. You can also visit www.silkor.com, and follow them on Instagram @SilkorHolding, Twitter @SilkorTweets, and Facebook: SilkorHolding. 85
bazaar fitness
THE DREAM by Mike Campbell
I deliberately try not to spend too much time on the roads in Kuwait. For many reasons, most of which were being addressed in the #irespectlife campaign. I also like to feel like I’m not wasting time that could further be enhancing my life, so I use the time to listen to podcasts. It is important to find time to completely detach and rest, but personally I find driving in Kuwait quite stressful at times. A good friend of mine, Regan, put me onto a podcast by a UK based gentleman called Ben Comber. Ben interviews many of the world's leading experts on all aspects of health and well-being. On episode 130, Ben was speaking with the famous Paul Chek on a show titled Inner Self (In past articles I have referred to Paul’s ideas and teachings.) The podcast focused on several aspects of health and wellbeing and in particular a book Paul wrote titled How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy. To date, this is one of the best books I’ve personally read during my time in the fitness industry. This book manages to address many of the complicated problems we encounter today in a very straight forward and simple to understand manner. If you don’t own it, get it and share it with your family and friends. During this podcast, Paul and Ben spoke on the lack of people who had dreams, or the number who had dreams which they couldn’t seem to reach, or had nightmares INSTEAD of dreams. It was a real eye opener listening to Paul speaking so openly about ideas that people seldom share in public. He had the courage, in my opinion, to discuss ideas that we all have, yet are often terrified to face. Having spent over 12 years working in the industry of fitness, I have been able to reflect on many of the clients and personal trainers I have trained or worked with and realized how powerful these individual fears are or how so many of us (myself included) didn’t or don’t know how to achieve our dreams. This influences everything, from weight loss to weight gain, to pains and aches that can’t be explained. Fears and lack of realizing your dreams can alter the balance of your mental, physical and spiritual well-being. In an article I recently read (positivelypresent.com) it said “stop what you're doing and ask yourself this: if you could have a dream come true, what would that dream be?" We all have dreams – some big, some small – but we often push them to the back of our minds, thinking someday…or maybe completely denying the notion that they could become realities. If we want to live our most positive, most present lives, we cannot deny our dreams. We cannot look at them like caged birds, something pretty to look at, something that shouldn't be set free. 86
This resonated with me as only in the past 14 days I’ve been asking many friends, clients and even random people if they have a dream and if so how they were planning on reaching it. I was amazed to see how many of them either didn’t have a dream, but had a nightmare, or had a dream yet didn’t seem to have the likelihood of reaching it because of the current situation they were in. So below are four points I read in the article that I wanted to share with you: Fear is stopping you. First accept your fear, then move past it. Setting a dream free to make it a reality is scary; there's no doubt about it. Don't deny your fear. Instead, accept it, appreciate it (after all, it will make you stronger), and move past it. Do not let it hold you back or hinder you from unlocking that cage's door. Believe that you deserve to live the life you choose, the dream you want. Everyone deserves to realize their dream. Perhaps even more so, we deserve to have a dream that becomes a reality. Believe in your deservingness of your dreams and don't let anyone convince you that your dream is anything less than perfect. This can be hard as often our friends want us to not be afraid and prefer us to be in a safe and constant environment. Set your dream free and then close the door. Tempting as it might be to keep the door open,
allowing for the possibility that you can someday return your dream safely to the cage, don't leave the door ajar. Don't cloud your mind with the idea of just giving it a try to see if it might work. Give it your all. Give it everything. Start moving forward and on your way through the door close it behind you. You’re not going back that way. Make sure that you don't look back on what might have been. Dive headfirst into making your dream, whatever it is, a reality. Don't wonder about what would have happened if you hadn't set it free, if you hadn't given it everything you had. Looking back will only prevent you from living your dream in the present. Having realized many of my dreams, I can say from personal experience that it is indeed scary. It’s daunting and at times it feels like it may be all too much to achieve. Whatever you do, don’t give in, don’t ever give in. Some people will tell you it can’t be done. Be careful who you chose to listen too. Because often these people have yet to face their own fears. Move forward. Make it happen. Mike Campbell is the GM and Co Founder of Inspire Pure Fitness and Inspire 2.0 at Sahara. Email info@inspirekw.com or nooriya@inspirekw.com, or you can visit them at www.inspirekw.com.
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HYUNDAI 2015 SCRAP ART COMPETITION Calling all Creatives!
As part of its greater corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Northern Gulf Hyundai announced the launch of its Scrap Art Competition aimed specifically at university students and contemporary art lovers in general. Competition participants should include artists, students and engineers hoping to inform their communities about the environmental dangers of derelict spare parts that litter cities if not disposed of correctly. During the competition, participants must create art pieces from ‘damaged car parts’, giving them lots of scope for their inspiring creations. Hyundai also hopes to explore alternative reuse and recycling initiatives. Art pieces created from the parts will be exhibited at the Hyundai showroom. The event will begin with the unveiling of the art pieces at the Hyundai showroom by Northern Gulf’s management team and the competition’s participants, along with their friends and 88
families. Media representatives and social media influencers will also be in attendance. The art pieces will then be viewed by a judging panel who will pick one winner to receive an amazing prize: a guided tour of Hyundai’s Ulsan South Korean factory, which is considered the world’s largest integrated car manufacturing facility. Second and Third place will also receive cash prizes, and all participants will be provided with a certificate of participation and awarded a token of appreciation to thank them for their creativity, efforts and skill put into their submissions. About the occasion, Mr. Raed Turjuman, Northern Gulf’s CEO said, “Hyundai is proud to be launching this initiative which demonstrates its commitment toward our environment and its protection, as well as bringing to light the issues that face our societies in reusing and recycling waste products.” He also reiterated Hyundai’s continued support for the communities it reaches through grassroots support
whenever given the opportunity. In addition to a host of CSR initiatives designed to provide humanitarian support, Northern Gulf constantly offers a variety of promotions to ensure customer satisfaction and to make Hyundai’s vehicles accessible to all, with competitive and reasonable prices. The company is also keen to reinforce Hyundai’s global brand value as a leading automotive brand that has been able to compete with older legacy brands. The promotions stand as a tribute to Hyundai’s customer-centric philosophy, which places customer needs at the top of its priorities, whether before or after purchase. Registration closes midnight 14th May 2015 and final artwork must be presented on 5th June 2015 (1pm – 10pm). Participants can find out more about the competition and register at their website www.hyundaiscrapart.com or through their Facebook page and Instagram feed @HyundaiKuwait.
SOUQ SHARQ
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A SAUNTER INTO
THE PAST EXPLORING WITH MADEENAH by bazaar staff
People who have lived abroad as students, all seem to have one thing in common upon returning to Kuwait – they all miss walking and exploring the city in which they lived. Taking the path less traveled and discovering new nooks and special hideaways are always the highlight of any walk. Even coming across a walking tour that takes you on a journey into a city’s past, is spectacular. You learn, you laugh, and you fall in love with the city all over again. With all that in mind, one lovely lady – Madeenah’s Managing Director Deema AlGhunaim – had a vision to curate the city’s paths, stories, and people and give others the chance to explore and appreciate their beloved country. We get to fall in love with the country, one literal step at a time. Meeting with the ladies behind Madeenah was an education. We had agreed to meet at one of the coffee places in the Salhiya Plaza and I was immediately whisked away to what they referred to as a “pocket garden.” “Can you believe we don’t have a single group photo?” Madeenah’s Creative Director Sarah AlFraih laughed, “We’re in the process of taking one now!” As I sat and observed their process, it became clear as to how passionate these ladies are about what they do. Perfectionists in their own rights, they all work really hard with their immaculate attention to detail. Madeenah started off as an idea, by Deema, to curate and scribe all of Kuwait’s history. Not the history taught in schools, but an alternative history – the people’s history. A history retelling the stories told by parents, grandparents, and stories from the older residents of the city – stories of change, growth, and the ever-evolving metropolis and its suburbs. The idea kept growing, and Deema knew she had to do something about it. So at Start-Up weekend back in 2014, Deema teamed up with a group just as passionate as she is about the prospect of documenting the country’s history. Deema credits what Madeenah has become, an informational walking tour, to her Start-Up Weekend team – Rawan Alsaffar, Aziz Alsaffar, and Moiz Dahodwala. Today, Deema has developed the idea further and brought together a wonderfully zealous team. Meet the new team: Founder and Managing Director, Deema AlGhunaim – Operations Director, Hind Francis – Editor in Chief, Sarah AlZouman – Creative Director, Sarah AlFraih – Design and Marketing Director, Suad AlFraih. Together, they’re curating all the unconventional and multifaceted stories of the city and its history through the walking tours. Everything is documented and nothing is considered too small or insignificant. Every story matters, and they wish to honor that – especially that these actual histories aren’t documented. In a country where driving has become the main mode of transportation, Madeenah is making walking cool again. The official launch happened at the most fitting of moments – November of last year at the annual Nuqat Creative Conference. Informing people about their mission throughout the conference, they hosted their very first walk that same weekend! Their aim is to bring the people closer to their city and pull them from their social media faux reality and into the real world – to interact with the city, its architecture, and build a relationship with it. The message they want to spread is simply to slow down, look around, and appreciate the city that’s become your home through its multiplicity. [continued...]
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[continued...] Through their research and interactions with the public, they were able to piece together a beautiful narrative for the city. Taking pieces of the stories, and stitching them all together, they’ve managed to create the ultimate storyline for every walk they go on. They’re giving the people a chance to break out of their social norms and experience the city completely. It’s always a learning opportunity for them as they explore the city – before the walks and even during, there’s always something new to learn. The idea was such a hit here in Kuwait that they even got invited to Saudi to create a walking tour there! All their walks are bilingual so no need to bring your own interpreter along – unless they want to join. Connecting with so many people through so many stories, has given them all the incentive to keep going. They currently have their walks every Saturday of the month from November to April! And be sure to tune into their last event of the season in May where they’ll be presenting their walking buddies with a surprise. Finally, when I asked them why the name Madeenah was chosen and what it means to them, they all agreed on one thing – the name gives off a sense of belonging. To find out more about Madeenah, you can follow them on Instagram @madeenahkw. For questions, email them at info@madeenah.co.
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JUST ASK
Loaay's Two Cents Got business problems or challenges at work? With his Two Cents page, Loaay Ahmed shares his expertise in strategic management consulting to help managers, employees and entrepreneurs thrive.
Q
My title is Sales Vice President and it’s not helping me get appointments or stand out with prospects. What can I suggest to HR to make it easier for me to achieve my targets?
Hiring is based on needs. If a business requires a senior technician, then a senior technician position becomes open and a senior technician is hired; simple and straightforward. As a customer you would be pleased to see a senior technician showing up at your door than just a technician because you believe you’re sent an expert who has the ability to solve your problem and that makes you feel better. But what if the company sent you an engineer instead? Now, you’re more delighted by the attention you’re receiving; and the title of an engineer sounds a lot better and much more experienced than a senior technician, doesn’t it? If you were to choose between three maintenance companies you’re most likely to choose the one with the engineer should their offerings be similar simply because the title works better for you. In the process of most organizational structuring exercises, the impact of any given title on the customer and its effect on revenue is not considered deep enough. The answer to your problem is not to change to Business Development Director because it’s not exciting to customers. Also, Sales Consultant makes many prospects wary and not trusting. There should be clear difference between internal roles and their external titles for front desk staff. Any employee facing customers should be given a title that works for the customer, not the company. Now, let’s say you were selling network solutions; a title like IT Productivity Expert is far more interesting to prospects than Sales VP. How HR sorts this out is not the issue. What matters is making it easier to generate revenue, not harder...and that's just my two cents.
Q
Our process to open an account for a new customer takes about 45 minutes. Many customers complain about how long it takes. We can’t shorten the steps involved but if we announce it upfront we might lose customers. How can we fix that?
When you go to a restaurant to order a pizza you expect it to be ready within 15 minutes, more or less. However, when you go to a pizzeria with an authentic pizza oven, your pizza is ready in three minutes (if they don’t have other orders of course), and that includes rolling the dough, putting the ingredients together and baking it in the wood-fired oven. Makes you want to have a pizza now doesn’t it? Go to a real pizzeria. It’s better and faster. Both restaurants have set up their kitchens to prepare and sell pizzas. Both want to be efficient and seek operational consistency. Both care about hygiene and health and safety regulations. Both succeeded in setting expectations. Both have warm, friendly and charming Italian waiters. Yet, only one of them offers a delightful customer experience. If a company can’t meet the ideal operational setup that works best for customers, communication is key here. After fifteen minutes the customer has already invested time into the process and will 94
hesitate to walk away. This would be a good time to walk them through the remaining steps, how long they may take, and, more importantly, what they are for. Explaining the reasons why increases customers’ understanding of the brand; it makes them feel respected and as a consequence more patient and flexible customers. Sure, you might have a negative reaction regardless, but that will be the exception. You can always surprise them with an added value at the end of the enrolment process to uplift the mood of the initial experience...and that's just my two cents.
Q
The owner of our company is a good person but he likes to make all the decisions, which is causing delays and frustrations among staff. What’s the best way to make him more trusting and aware of the issues his style is causing? We can easily list all problems associated with centralized management but that won’t add much to your situation. You’re experiencing it on a daily basis. However, what’s much needed here is to better understand how most business owners think and work and what’s important to them. By doing so, you can talk to them in a tone they see important and that makes you more valuable to them. Once that’s achieved, you will see a gradual change in their behavior with you. They will become more trusting, more open to your feedback, more delegating and, before you know it, less centralized. Change is difficult. As human beings we are slaves to patterns. Therefore, you need to be realistic about seeing the new and improved Business Owner 2.0 version. Most business owners appreciate being action-oriented managers because they can see immediate change at work. Being commercially focused is by far the best quality a manager can possess. Know where the money comes from and act accordingly. While some business owners know their issues, many don’t; which means they lack the ability to analyze their own performance and be honest enough to admit shortcomings and identify areas of much needed improvement. With that glitch in mind, be sensitive to ego vs. desire to improve. They can easily get defensive – and sometimes offensive – when it comes to criticizing their ideas and challenging their decisions. This of course is an ongoing process. Things will get better with time. Hopefully, version 2.2 has less bugs...and that's just my two cents.
For Loaay Ahmed’s advice on business or work matters, send a short email to loaay@knightscapital.com. Regrettably, only the questions chosen for publishing will be answered. Loaay Ahmed is a management adviser and strategic expert. To learn more about Loaay and his consulting service, strategic business therapy, visit www.knightscapital.com.
MCDONALDS
THE BUTCHER’S CUT
by bazaar staff
It’s true, anything the food guru and restaurateur Ahmed Al-Bader touches, turns into gastronomic gold. With concept creations all around Kuwait and menus that can have you coming back for days, he knows exactly what he’s doing. His vision is to provide the people in Kuwait with the best products and meats in the comfort of their own homes and chalets. Available for walk-ins, delivery, and call in advance pick-ups, The Butcher’s Cut have thought of everything! They can even cater your next big bash and offer Combo Boxes filled with premium cut meat selections for your next barbeque. You’re guaranteed the same quality of meats as those served up to you at The Butcher’s Den. With all their packaging reminiscent of their restaurant, your cuts will remind you of that exquisite dining experience, but with all the comforts of home. The Butcher’s Cut counter can be found in Sultan Center Shaab. Premium Wagyu, the very rare and special Kiwami, and the highest-grade meats are exactly what you will find at the counter. Mouth-watering cuts with beautiful marbling, these juicy and tender meats will keep you coming for more.
WALK-INS & COMBO BOXES
Walk-ins are always welcome at The Butcher’s Cut. If you know what you’re after or just want to see the options laid out for you, you can always go to their counter at the Shaab Sultan Center or head over to The Butcher’s Den restaurant in Al-Bida’a. If you’re a novice, fret not – the very capable butchers will assist you with your every need. They can even offer you their incredible concoctions of glazes and rubs to go with your selection of cuts. Walk in at any time, on any day and you’ll find a fully stocked counter of incredible goodies to take home and cook up. But their incredible selections don’t end there! The Butcher’s Cut is now offering Combo Boxes. Ideal for larger gatherings or as a weekly purchase – 96
these boxes have different selections that’ll keep everyone, and every mood, pleased. In the box you’ll find: two Fillets, two Ribeyes, two Sirloins, one T-Bone, two pieces of ready-to-eat Short ribs, two Chicken sausages, two Chicken Skewers, and two Beef Sausages! The box even comes with a selection of two types of glazes and two types of rubs to use with your variety of meats. Hefty boxes with a superb assortment, the Combo Boxes are an absolute mustorder! To get a Combo Box or two, you can call them directly and ask them to prep them for delivery, pick-up, or just head over to Sultan Center Shaab’s The Butcher’s Cut counter or The Butcher’s Den in Al-Bida’a and order them there! Just keep in mind that each order takes an hour to prepare.
CATERING STATION Also offering a fully-fledged catering service, the expert chefs and butchers are happy to assist you with all your needs to have an incredible barbecue, dinner party or gathering! With a complete menu consultation according to the size of your party and a meat recommendation service, they’ve got you covered! They also provide you with all the grilling equipment and staff for your event if need be. Sit back and relax as the expert chefs take command of the barbecue and enjoy your delectable options with your guests fuss free. Choose from their wide assortment of uniquely marinated meats, and even go as far as to create your own marinade mix to keep your menu unique from all others! Chicken and beef sausages and skewers, meats in all cut variations, chicken wings with their special buffalo sauce, lamb rack, short ribs, sauces, glazes, rubs, salads and more – The Butcher’s Cut Catering Station has it all! They’ve even included a seafood grill with jumbo shrimp, salmon, and lobster tails. Just visit any of their locations or call them and ask for their BBQ menu a day in advance to get this service at your next shindig.
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FREE DELIVERIES AND P I C K - U PS
Oh happy day! Now, you don’t even have to leave your house to get your hands on a succulent steak. Just call them up, make your order, and soon, you’ll be greeted with a beautifully presented package full of your favorite meats free of charge! This brand new service will keep your cravings sufficed, as all your epicure needs are a phone call away. As for their pick-ups, just call in advance and pick up your order on your way home from the office at the Sultan Center in Shaab! So no need to worry about last minute steak dinners – The Butcher’s Cut is making life easier for you, one cut at a time.
All you need to do is visit their dedicated counter at The Sultan Center in Shaab or The Butcher’s Den restaurant in Al-Bida’a. For more information on their free delivery, or the call in advance pick-up services please call 2226 3140 or 9664 7442. You can even follow The Sultan Center and The Butcher’s Den on Instagram @Sultan_Center and @Butchersden to find out about all their latest and greatest selections and products. Special orders at The Butcher’s Cut are available upon request. 97
THE HALAL GUYS
For the food fanatic in you by bazaar staff
It is perhaps the most common notion of the American dream: start out doing something that is dear to your own heart, work hard, and you will succeed. For the Egyptians who moved to America and started with a hot dog cart in busy Manhattan, Mohamed Abouelenein and Abdelbaset Elsayed, this is exactly what happened. The decision to move away from the traditional American fare of hot dogs and move closer to their own cultural roots with a halal cart, instead turned out to be the most important decision of all. In no time, lines formed around the corners and down the street for these food carts until they close at four in the morning. With the first of their brick and mortar stores opened last year, they are looking to franchise and even go international. It started with a single hot dog cart in 1990. Mohamed Abouelenein was a veterinarian, and Abedlbaset Elsayed was a business student when they emigrated from Egypt with dreams of owning their own business. When they first started, they worked a variety of odd jobs, doing everything from working in kitchens to driving cabs. Eventually though, they saved up enough money to start their very first cart in New York City. They began selling hot dogs – the most popular food cart fare of the time – on the bustling corner of 6th Avenue and 53rd St. They now refer to this as their original location. After serving hot dogs for a while, the pair realized that Muslim cabbies were aching for a tasty, halal-certified bite in Midtown Manhattan, where they didn’t have to leave the car. This is where the story takes off. What was then just one cart, is now seven carts at this location alone. Lines can last for up to two hours long, where hundreds upon hundreds of people will be waiting in the, although busy, fast-moving lines. The menu is simple: chicken or gyro meat served over rice. You can also get a combination of both for those who can’t decide. There is a creamy white sauce – the origins of which have baffled many – and a spicy hot sauce that packs a powerful punch. All for seven bucks (about KD 2). That’s it. Nothing flashy. So what is it about this food that is getting people to line up for as long as two hours at a time until 4am just to try it? Your NY-based bazaar correspondent made a trek down to the original location to find out why! I was skeptical at first: I was underwhelmed by the number of options on the menu, I hate waiting in lines, and hated the prospect of being in midtown at either 4am or even during regular business hours, when you can barely walk down the street due to so many people. But I must say, I stand corrected. It was absolutely delicious. And, given recent business announcements, you may not have to wait too long to try for yourself. 98
I later trekked to their first brick and mortar location in the East Village. The first thing you notice is that they have offerings that the carts do not, including a juice and smoothie bar, hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, Mediterranean salads and yogurt, as well as falafels freshly made, instead of merely being reheated from the carts. The Halal Guys have created a buzz after announcing stage one of their franchising deal out of 200 new units in development over the next year. Amongst the already crowded landscape of New York eateries, The Halal Guys consistently ranks in the Top Ten Most Yelped Businesses in New York City, and even the entire U.S. overall (Yelp is a crowdsourced food review website and app).
Even Reebok has recently launched a specialty sneaker inspired by this now iconic brand. Most recently, they hired American restaurant industry veteran Mike Speck as their new COO. Speck’s specialty is taking restaurant brands into growth mode, which he most recently did by adding more than 150 new units to fast casual Mexican brand Qdoba. With plans to come into the Gulf region soon, we will hopefully see them locally! If you are in NYC this summer, visit their original cart at the corner of 6th Avenue and 53rd St. in Manhattan, New York, and stay tuned for their expansion into the Gulf region by following them on Facebook: The Halal Guys.
FANTASY WORLD
KAFTAN COOL AT HARVEY NICHOLS KUWAIT Kaftan collection highlights local talent and creativity
With Ramadan right around the corner (yes, time most definitely does fly!), every stylish fashionista is getting her Kaftan ‘wishlist’ in order. From tailoring customized designs, exploring the depths of the fabric market for the latest color trends, and browsing fashionable accounts on Instagram for that much needed dose of Ramadanfashion inspiration, Harvey Nichols Kuwait now has the answer for all of your Kaftan woes. Look no further than to your favorite designer paradise, where the reputable department store has underlined its commitment to local talent and promoting Kuwait’s design talents and creative efforts by hosting an exclusive Kaftan collection from 14 renowned Kuwaiti designers. Rather than order online, or end up buying pieces off of Instagram only to discover that the quality is below
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expected, you can simply head to your favorite fashion destination that is Harvey Nichols Kuwait. Prior to the collection’s launch at Harvey Nichols, this fashion haven organized a beautiful event that showcased the 14 local designers’ works. With bespoke creations that dazzled with the use of brilliant colors and ornate detailing, each and every style represented a signature, musthave piece. If you’re attending a special ghabqa or iftar this Ramadan, then be sure to come by Harvey Nichols Kuwait as these pieces will quickly sell out! Another design aspect that we absolutely loved includes contemporary Western cuts that are cleverly integrated with oriental design elements. The Kaftan collection at Harvey Nichols Kuwait includes the works of prominent designers like Elegant by Laila, Vestiti, Yarn by M and By Nouma,
by bazaar staff
while fresh colors and crisp styles defined the array of designs from kaftan creators Monera Al Mudhaf, BN Designs, Maison Chic, AlJawhara Designs and Atypik by Jihene Bin Jazia. A blend of textures, prints and intricate detailing brings to life the season’s trends that are evident in pieces from designers Antikana, Montaha Couture, Lace Fashions, and I_love_dara3a and Sheen. Harvey Nichols Kuwait is located at Grand Avenue – The Avenues. Opening hours are from 10 a.m. till midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Sunday to Wednesday. Please call 2228 3008 for more information. You can also get social with Harvey Nichols Kuwait by following them on Facebook.com/HarveyNicholsKuwait and Instagram @HarveyNicholsKuwait.
JAMAWAR
MINIMALISM AT LARGE MAU JEWELRY IN KUWAIT by bazaar staff
When Argentine-American jeweler Marianna Maurer decided to make jewelry, she drew inspiration from the world around her. Currently based in Los Angeles, this designer debuted her collection in early 2014 across the US and Canada. With a high demand for her minimalist creations, Marianna decided to expand further. Bringing her collection to Kuwait, this versatile jewelry line can now be mixed and matched with our very own unique twist – combining minimalism with our beautiful culture’s flair. Debuting in the season’s final Street Fest, MAU Jewelry will soon be coming to a boutique near you. Starting her career in photography and video production, Marianna found herself working in New York alongside leading retailers. With that kind of exposure, it was only a matter of time till she found her true calling. The fashion industry – houses and retailers alike – were quickly transitioning from the physical to the online marketplace. Taking a page out of their book, Marianna created a website to showcase and sell her jewelry online. “Design has always been a draw for me,” she explained, “Jewelry was a natural starting point since I was working within the fashion world for several years prior.” Choosing a name for her line came naturally. Wanting to keep a personal connection between her designs, her heritage and herself, she chose the first three letters of her last name for her collection – and MAU Jewelry was born. Having studied ceramics from early on, Marianna has always had an eye and an interest in design. Utilizing that and combining it with functionality, she gravitated towards jewelrymaking. The shapes she creates are a reflection of everything around her. “I am continuously drawn to modern and minimalist design,” Marianna elaborated, “whether it’s applied to architecture, furniture or objects of any kind.” Not seeking out the forms per say, their essence is what influences the shapes they take in their final form. The marriage and balance between architecture and furniture – the aspect of design and function – are what she requires of her jewelry. So the idea that pieces have to not only look pretty, but be functional to the wearer, is the fuel to her design ambition. It’s a fleeting afterthought – her inspiration that is – as she comes across any object from the world around her. Both manmade and organic structures draw her in and give her inspiration for her pieces. “The connection with jewelry is not immediate, but eventually makes its way into my designs,” Marianna adds. The manifestation of her inspirational piece can come from either a specific detail she’d seen, or the how something as a whole made her feel. Environmentally conscious, her pieces are all made of recycled metals. Focusing on clean lines and minimalism in her designs, she creates beautiful things from recycled 14k gold and sterling silver. With the amount of waste that’s generated from the jewelry-making industry, Marianna decided to create everything from recycled metals. “It’s a nice way of curbing that without sacrificing quality or design,” she says. Entirely handcrafted, her pieces are all created personally by her and are made at high-end quality with high street prices. Marianna’s collections are released twice a year, one for the Spring/Summer season and another for Fall/Winter. This gives her ample time to produce every piece with love and create beautifully structured jewelry. “I recently started incorporating precious and semiprecious stones in certain pieces,” she says, “That will be released in the Fall.” With so much in the works for her, Marianna is also collaborating with a US retailer [continued...] 102
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Designer, Marianna Maurer [...continued] for custom home accessories to also be released in the Fall. Through her collaborations, Marianna has found a new realm to venture into. She hopes that through her work with the retailers, she’ll be able to keep releasing more extensive collections of home accessories. Versatility is the key to her designs. MAU Jewelry is created with the woman in mind – irrespective of her age and style. The pieces are both classic and edgy – and at times a wonderful combination of both – depending solely on the wearer. It’s the jewelry 104
that should be worn every day, all day, by every woman. “The line is intended to be minimal and classic but nonetheless bold and I’d like a woman wearing my pieces to feel that balance,” Marianna explains, “The interlocking shapes and design found in most pieces also adds a playful element to the line.” Her designs are created to entice a sense of adventure to the wearer with no right or wrong way to wear them – as long as it’s true to your style. Simply worn on its own or layered with other pieces, MAU Jewelry is made to reflect the wearer’s panache.
From day to night, let the jewelry bring your outfit together with perfect finesse. When asked what jewelry is to her, she simply said, “[It’s] feminine, nostalgic, sentimental, beautiful, bold, intimate, chic, decadent, classic and most of all super fun.” Find out when and where MAU Jewelry will be in Kuwait by following them on Instagram @MAUJewelry_Kuwait. For orders, you can Whatsapp them on 9601 5167. For more information, please visit MAU Jewelry online at www.maujewelry.com.
CURVES
V-KOOL CAN TAKE YOU
FROM THIS TO
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THAT
With the unbearable heat that graces us as the summer months roll in, it’s always a great idea to plan ahead. As we bid spring a loving farewell and embrace summer – with open AC’s and freezing jugs of water – our cars are in much need of V-KOOL’s tender loving care. Known for their motto – “A heritage of trust, environment friendliness, and satisfied global consumers” – V-KOOL’s product line guarantees your satisfaction. Originally a Southwall Technologies USA invention and global patent, V-KOOL has been making history since 1996 with their state-of-the-art technology. They’ve earned their bragging rights as every car they've "kooled" in the region becomes a loyal return customer. With the world’s leading technology in advanced heat control window film, V-KOOL keeps the inside of your car, well, cool! But they have more than your car’s precious interiors in mind! A technology so powerful, V-KOOL’s virtually transparent protective film keeps the harmful Infrared and Ultraviolet rays of our brightest star – the Sun of course – away from you and your loved ones all year round! Fun fact: This very same protective film helped the infamous aviation superstar - the ‘Stealth Bomber’ – evade detection by dramatically reducing the aircraft's radar footprint. Durable and potent, V-KOOL’s technology is made of the finest metals around. To create this seemingly simple film, they take it through a seething process of seven metals resulting in an almost invisible seven layer incorporated film. Just so you know, some of the metals included in this protective film are Indium Oxide and Silver, which are then fortified by Gold. Yes, Gold – giving you a sun protection factor of over 200! Still not convinced? Why not head on over to any of V-KOOL's Kuwait locations where they can demonstrate the differences between having V-KOOL’s incredible protection and not. And with their latest Gen2 films to be released soon – seethed through a whopping 10 layers! – they’re showing you, dear reader, that your safety always comes first. So before the heat gets too much, make your way over and get the super cool V-KOOL treatment and join the masses of protected customers. Visit V-KOOL Kuwait at their Shuwaikh showroom on Canada Dry Street or their Ahmadi location in the Al Ahmadi Industrial Area, Street 201. Or call them on their respective numbers 9001 1488 and 2398 1450. Visit their website at www.v-kool.com for more information and follow them on Instagram for more fun facts and information @vkoolkw.
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DELICIOUS STREET
There's something for everyone at the Plajat Complex by bazaar staff
We’ve all been there. That moment when a group of people are hungry, but each has a taste for something different from the rest. You could go to the mall, but then there’s the issue of parking, and with the weather getting so nice, who wants to be inside for the day? Why not head to Plajat on the Arabian Gulf Road in Salmiya, where you can hit two birds with one stone. Everyone eats what he or she likes, and you can cross the street for an idyllic lunch on the beach together. When you pull up to Plajat strip on the Arabian Gulf road, the modern wooden design that immediately attracts one's attention and that leads to a spacious parking lot that services all four restaurants simultaneously. Your first task would be to choose which matching door to go through for your dining experience. Behind door number one is JJ’s Burger Joint – a concept that offers gourmet burgers made from the freshest ingredients. JJ’s adheres to a layering equation created from a juicy beef patty, soft bun, crunchy onions, fresh tomatoes, crispy lettuce, and mouthwatering cheese. Each layer has the perfect combination of flavor that made it a burger well worth remembering. You could taste the freshness in the vegetables, meat and the bread. The patty seasoning greatly complements the high grade US meat, and the creamy cheese definitely hits all the right spots. Their wide variety of burger types include the Mushroom & 108
Swiss Burger, Super JJ’s Double Cheese Burger and Bacon Burger, with a side of Buffalo Jumbo Chicken Wings or Southwest Fries to share. Not in the mood for a burger, but you’re craving a sandwich with rich ingredients? You’ll find that just behind the second door at Sandawicha. The chef has identified the spices and mixtures that truly define each country for a mouthwatering quick eat. Take a trip to the USA, with a Philadelphia steak Sandwich made with shredded beef fillet steak and mozzarella cheese that are spiced with a special spread laid on sesame bread. Mexico is represented with the famous Fajita signature sandwich, as well as the Tijuana Sandawicha embellished with avocado, a Mexican spread, and wrapped in a delicious homemade flatbread. Or head all the way to Jamaica, with their exquisite Cajun Chicken Sandwich, a delightful experience of chicken breast with fresh mushroom and mozzarella. If you are looking for something a little closer to Arabic cuisine, then head over to Abou Jassem where you’ll find all the great Lebanese classics. The grill and shawarma specials with starters made with authentic recipes. They use the best meat and chicken for both their grills and distinguished Abou Jassem shawarma. But they also have a delicious selection of sides and vegetarian dishes, like their super falafel or sojouk sandwiches. If you can all agree that the taste of home is the best, then spring for the party
platter and get a little bit of everything from tikka, taouk, kafta, kabab, arayes and shawarma. Towards the end, you and your friends should meet at the drinks shop Meywa – named after an old Kuwaiti custom of bringing out fruits at the end of the meal, the concept is exactly that: a fresh and fruity end to your Plajat experience. Their drinks are unique and can only be found in this strip of deliciousness. Here you will find fresh juices from the tried and true orange juice or watermelon lemonade, their distinctive cocktail mixes like their Heartbreaker, YumYum, or Tahiti, or even a special Meywa shake with Snickers and Oreo, even grab a coffee frappe or a warm cappuccino. You can even end your meal with a sweet tooth to an unusual hot chocolate or ice cream combinations with fruits such as that perfect Sunshine Merry Fruity – surely to try. Now that you have your burgers, sandwiches, drinks, and sides to share , you can get together on their patio to enjoy your meal with a splendid sea view on the gulf or just walk right across the street for a picnic on the beach to enjoy the afternoon together. It will be a day you, your friends and your taste buds will never forget. Plajat is located off the Arabian Gulf Road at Plajat Street, Gulf Road, Salmiya and is open from 12pm to 12am. To contact them call 188 8848. You can follow the concepts on Instagram @jjs_kwt, @abou_jassemkw, @meywakwt, @sandawichakwt.
LABEL M
Wanderlusting SOUTH AMERICA Experience Brazil and the continent like never before with Brazilis Traveler by bazaar staff
You’ve been wanderlusting after Brazil for quite some time now, long before your timeline became flooded with incredible photos from last year’s World Cup. Brazil, however, confronts you with this burning question. You can’t visit Brazil without wanting to make the most out of the South American continent, so where would one begin? Answering that question, and then some, is Tamer Emam, Founder and Head of Concierge at the dedicated boutique travel company, Brazilis Traveler. 110
Why Tamer? Well, he is a multi-talented quintessential traveler and adrenaline junkie who fluently speaks Brazilian Portuguese, English and his native mother tongue, Arabic. A truly global citizen, a Business Administration graduate and has 10 years of work and travel experience under his belt. Upon visiting Brazil for a vacation in 2009, he made the big move across the pond to settle in Brazil in November of 2010. He said, “I was mesmerized by Brazilian culture, the friendliness and the embracing attitude of the people, the weather, the marvelous breathtaking natural environment, and above all the fast growing economy. The abundance of its natural resources for exporting raw materials, the shortage of experienced talents and the skyrocketing demand of its medium class on goods and services made it an ideal place to start a business.” Indeed, he did start a business. One that showcases his love and his Brazilian experiences, perfectly tailored for people from all walks of life in need of guidance when it comes to planning what would easily be the trip of a lifetime. Read on to learn about how you can make your upcoming trip to Brazil an unforgettable experience! What do you aim to achieve through Brazilis Traveler and what do you wish for visitors to experience? I would like to spread the notion that traveling in general, and especially to Brazil and South America, is the only chance you have to see an unfiltered, unbiased view of the beauty of this planet. With the help of Brazilis Traveler as the unparalleled choice in travel planning, to discover wonders like the Amazon rain forest, spectacular beaches, the Carnival in Brazil, the lost Incan civilization in Machu Picchu, the biodiversity of Ecuador’s Galapagos islands, the mighty Andes mountains and glaciers in Chilean and Argentinean Patagonia, and coffee farms in Colombia. As the French writer Gustave Flaubert once said “it is these wonders that turn us to modest people once we see what a tiny place we occupy in this world." Since you are based in Brazil, tell us about your favorite Brazilian experience so far. Before visiting Brazil I had no expectations at all as I did not know much about the country, aside from its struggle with high crime rates, the mighty Amazon forest and the world-class football, Jiu-Jitsu and UFC champions. I intentionally decided not to read any reviews on the Internet in order to avoid any type of preset opinions, yet I was very much anxious to know the secret behind Brazil’s exoticness. Being raised in an urban atmosphere and a small country like Kuwait, I never understood or felt that immense effect of nature on one’s state of mind or emotions. My best 72 hours included the following: It started at night where we went to see some old school live Samba performance and taste the delicious Brazilian BBQ, then at midnight I was surprised with a ticket to watch The Scorpions perform live! The next day at 8:00 am I was introduced to the Head of Sao Paulo’s tactical Special Forces. Imagine someone like The Rock from Fast and Furious V, but who spoke Portuguese. A professional cyclist who participated [continued...]
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[...continued] in several Iron-man triathlons, he was leading the way with other 100 cycling enthusiasts from his unit and with 3 police armed vehicles surrounding us, we visited all of the major police training units as well the downtown highlights, a 50 KM trip that kept me and my wife on our tiptoes. At night, we packed our bags to visit an island called lha Bela (The beautiful island) the following day. All I knew then is that we are going to an island close to Sao Paulo where we will hike for 3.5 hours, stop at one of the island’s peaks and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean. While all of this seemed normal to me, once I reached the peak of that mountain I found myself breaking into tears. It was the first time in my entire life to see such beauty and experience such serenity. That puts everything back into perspective. All these anxieties and irritations of everyday life and those to-do lists tend to be extremely small and irrelevant when you’re at the top of this 1300 meter green mountain overlooking the ocean. It was right then and there I decided to stay and help people experience what I was witnessing at that moment. How are journeys personalized with Brazilis Traveler? A passionate and experienced traveler is the one that pays keen attention to the small details that turns their trip into a real personal experience, and an excellent dinner story, not just a typical vacation and this is where "personalizing the journey" plays a big role. When you have a continental-sized country like Brazil, that is larger than all countries in Europe combined, and where a single flight from the north to the south could take 7 hours, attention to detail is a must. Brazil and South America have a lot to offer, from rugged and adventurous 5-day hikes and camping on the Incan trail in Peru Macho Picchu, or a week in the Amazon rainforest with the native Indigenous tribes from Brazil, to participating in Carnival display in Rio de Janeiro and urban and ultra-sophisticated journeys, or even the combination of both. We carefully plan every single aspect of the trip, from the basics like accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and internal flights, to the smallest detail, like putting your names on the list of the most in-demand restaurants, venues and events in South America’s capitals like Buenos Aires, Rio and Sao Paulo. Our concierge team has the contacts to make the impossible possible. Can you share with us some examples of how trips are customized? For art and nature enthusiasts, we once received an interesting brief from an Emirati family... They wanted to visit the most scenic places in Brazil but wanted to really get under the skin of some of Brazil’s major cities. They had a special interest in contemporary art, Afro Brazilian art and the Brazilian culinary scene. We designed a trip for them that included Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Sao Paulo, Brasilia, Paraty and Fernando de Noronha island. In Rio, the guide was an Arts history Professor at the local university and they ventured into Rio’s favelas. Throughout the trip, we introduced them to art collectors and they indulged in hidden gems of Brazilian cuisine and capoeira 112
in Brazilian Salvador. The trip ended by swimming with dolphins and turtles in the reserve island of Fernando de Noronha. Another brief allowed us to organize a VIP Experience Extravaganza, where we were approached by a top Mexican business leader who was referred to Brazilis Traveler by a friend and gave us the most exciting travel brief possible. We were asked to design the most unforgettable Brazil experience one could imagine for his family of 10 people who were travelling in their private jet into the country. The trip started off with the charter of the best private yacht available in the Amazon, with one of Brazil’s top chefs on board as well as superb Naturalist guides. From there, we headed for a day trip to Iguaçu falls, and then a private farm in the Pantanal where we arranged a special air safari. In Rio de Janeiro, the family closed off an entire floor of one of Rio’s top hotels, before finishing the trip in one of the most iconic savage coastline of Rio de Janeiro’s Angra dos Reis private villas. A week before the trip, the client called us up and asked us if he could bring an extra 10 people.
Are you personally involved in the planning process for interested visitors? Yes, from A to Z. It’s my wealth of local knowledge and perfectionist suppliers that gives me the competitive edge. What’s the recommended time that one should spend in Brazil? Generally you need a minimum of 15 to 20 days, keeping in mind that there are seasons. For instance if you are visiting the Amazon, there is a wet heavy rain season (December to March and low rain season April to October) While in Rio de Janeiro it is high season all-year-round and the peak is from December to end of February due to New Year’s, summer break and Carnival. Where do you see your business going? I see it growing to the point where we would have our own charter flights and our own hip beach hotel! Don’t waste any more time, hurry and visit www.brazilistraveler.com to tailor your South American experience! Follow the company on Instagram @BrazilisTraveler.
BUTCHERS CUT
DESIGNED WITH AUTHENTICITY by Lynda Higgs
Bri Anabtawi
During March I visited StreetFest Kuwait, which showcased a variety of small businesses based here in Kuwait, but it was the beautiful range of vibrant, artisan-produced textile products on the Future Bohème stand that really caught my attention. Founded by the lovely Bri Anabtawi, whose enthusiasm for handcrafted textiles and textile products is infectious, Future Bohème offer their customers products that are produced by traditional, artisanal craftsmen and sourced in locations that are a long way away from glossy, airconditioned malls and global, high-street brands. Originally from pretty Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia, Bri has traveled extensively since her early childhood, initially with her parents and siblings and then as a result of her work in the travel and tourism industry. I asked Bri if her love of textiles was a direct result of her travels: “Yes, definitely, but it’s also inspired by mum and 114
dad’s collection. They used to come home from our travels with suitcases full of bits and pieces: rugs, wall hangings, pottery, ceramics, which still decorate the walls of our family home. I guess I just picked it up from them. Also, my mother loves textiles and we would regularly trawl through secondhand shops, markets and so on for hidden gems. Every time I go back home to visit, mum and I head off to explore shops and markets together; it’s become a ritual for us.” I suggested that for someone with a love of textiles and collectibles, discovering Kuwait’s Fabric Souk must have been like opening up a huge parcel of gifts. “The fabric souk is fantastic!”, enthused Bri. “Kuwait is actually a bit of a hidden gem, because there’s not a big tourism industry here, most people don’t know of the fabric souk. I find that the local textiles are on a par with some of the best (elsewhere) and they are reasonably priced. The range and quality
of the materials available is breathtaking and Souk Mubarakiya is a treasure trove of items from all over the Middle East and Western Asia. In particular I like the fact that so much of what you come across has a real history to it.” That what she buys and sells has history, is definitely part of the Future Bohème ethos, giving her products an authenticity lacking in some global brands. “Yes,” agreed Bri. “When you see beaded or Boho-embroidered pieces in global, high street stores you just have to look at their tag to see that they are mass produced in a factory and are essentially disposable. I have made a point of taking the time to source producers who use traditional methods to create beautiful, unique items for the contemporary market. For example, one of the companies I’m working with is Banago, who are based in the Philippines. They use traditional methods of weaving palm materials,
but incorporate modern patterns in their designs creating a bespoke product that will appeal to the 2015 market. Bri also makes sure to source as many Fair Trade producers as she can, thereby ensuring that her customers are putting money back into small communities and preserving cultural traditions. In fact, the area of the Philippines where Banago is located was devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013 and has only recently completed reconstruction, so Future Bohème’s customers are literally supporting a small group of artisans through buying their bags. Bri developed the concept that has become Future Bohème in 2012 when she was on maternity leave, as she wanted to do something creative and explore a different career which afforded her the opportunity to do something she cared about. I asked Bri if it was her intention to develop the brand into something bigger in the long term. She laughed and said, “In a perfect world, I would have
a real market presence and a store front, but I’m still new to the Kuwaiti market and only started operating 5 months ago. My main aim is to work with local artists and designers and bring a more Middle Eastern flavor to the brand, as there are so many great things to celebrate (in the Middle East). For example, I’ve recently added a range of jewelry inspired by traditional Sadu design. Through my research and a visit to Sadu house I was lucky enough to contact Nadia, from Noon Jewellery Design, who creates beautiful Saduinspired pieces, all based on traditional Kuwaiti patterns and designs, and is 100% designed and produced here in Kuwait. Nadia is a joy to work with and she is always coming up with exciting new products that perfectly marry the traditional and the contemporary. The jewelry is definitely becoming a key part of our range.” Bri sources products from the Wayuu tribe in Columbia, northern Thailand, Australia and
Madagascar, so hers is a truly global brand. “In fact, I’ve just returned from northern Thailand where I met our supplier and got to meet the producers, which was a really special travel experience. I know where everything I sell comes from and that everything is handmade. Buying a bag or piece of jewelry from Future Bohème my customer can be sure they have a one off piece from a limited range, offering authenticity and exclusivity in one beautifully crafted item.” Beautiful, individually hand-crafted products that are practical and ensure the preservation of cultural heritage seems like a win-win situation to me. Who needs another mass-produced KD10 handbag when you accessorize with authenticity? Future Bohème products can be purchased via Instagram @futureboheme and their online store www.futureboheme.com and can provide same day delivery. Photography by LyndaHiggsPhotography 115
big boys toys Because grown men still need to play
NEO SMARTPEN N2
RENEGADE HOVERCRAFT
TREFECTA DRT ELECTRIC DIRT BIKE
Neo Smartpen N2 is a new pen that literally turns whatever you write or draw by hand into a digital text or support. It also quickly syncs with your Evernote account. It features a small microphone and voice recorder so you can use it as a voice memo whenever you get a thought or idea worth recording, it even allows to sync these voice recordings with any notes you wrote at the time. You can also search your texts by date or by a tag you gave to any work you did at the time. Compatible with Android and IOS devices.
Sometimes there are places that cars, boats, and even planes can't reach. For those times, you need a Renegade Hovercraft. This versatile vehicle carries two passengers, and is crafted with a nearly indestructible Kevlar hull for peace of mind away from shore. Powered by a high-output AeroDrive system hooked to a 4-stroke engine, it can reach speeds of up to 50 mph with a cruising speed of 30, a range of 150 miles, and a hump speed of 3.1 seconds (TWSS). Available in four models and in a variety of colors.
This isn't your average Grand Theft noisemaker of a bike. In fact, the Trefecta DRT Electric Dirt Bike doesn't make any noise at all. It's powered by a 4kW engine and a 60-volt battery pack, good for a maximum range of over 60 miles and a top speed of over 40. You can provide some power yourself, thanks to the hybrid system and 14-speed electrically shifting gearbox. Other features include a lightweight, foldable aluminum frame, fly-by-wire controls, an integrated handlebar display, Hop disc brakes, 26" carbon wheels with Schwalbe off-road tires, and iPhone integration
www.blessthisstuff.com
www.uncrate.com
www.uncrate.com
KALAMAZOO HYBRID FIRE GRILL
PORSCHE BOXSTER SPYDER
BOND HANDWRITING ROBOT
You can get a charcoal grill, a gas grill, and a smoker to handle your summer cooking duties. Or you can upgrade to a Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill. Available in both freestanding and built-in models, these professional-grade grills use cast brass burners weighing 14 pounds and outputting 25,000 BTUs each to handle simple gas grilling tasks. The burners are also placed below the hybrid grilling drawer to help get your charcoal or wood going when it's time for live fire cooking. The result is the ability to grill, smoke, roast, and otherwise cook nearly anything using nearly any fuel.
Designed specifically for open-air driving, the Porsche Boxster Spyder does come with a top. But we're not sure you'll ever use it. Powered by a 3.8L six-cylinder engine, it boasts an output 375hp, with a 0-60 time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph. It borrows the brakes from the 911 Carrera S to slow things down, which is good, as it gives you time to enjoy the streamliners on the rear lid that recall the 718 Spyder of the '60s, the unique front and rear fascias, and the classic Porsche headlights. The interior is sporty yet spartan, so much so that it ships standard without A/C or a radio — but fortunately for those of us against sweating and who like listening to more than just an engine's roar, you can add them back at no extra charge.
In this modern world of emails and texts, handwritten notes are something rare. They're more personal, more vital. Sometimes you just don't have time to write when you'd like to. Enter the Bond Handwriting Robot. It takes your digital messages and turns them into thoughtful handwritten notes on your choice of notecards. You can choose from one of Bond's precreated handwriting styles, or, for an extra fee, have the robot learn your handwriting for a note that's as authentic as if you'd written it yourself. Bond also ensures that the text will remain consistent and errorfree throughout your message, so you don't have to worry about fussing over a perfectly good note only to screw it up part way through.
www.hiconsumption.com
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www.uncrate.com
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RIVER
EUROPE’S OLDEST DINING AT RESTAURANT S T I F T S K E L L E R by Shabana H. Shaikh
I took my eyes off the map long enough to take in the sight of Residenzbrunnen, the impressive 16th century marble Baroque fountain in the center of Residenzplatz. Having just left the renowned Getreidegasse, I was standing in the town’s largest square, in awe. But there isn’t a square or a building in ‘Alstadt’ (or ‘old town’) of Salzburg, Austria that isn’t steeped in history — clearly deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage status. Henry, my Austrian friend’s voice, drifted to mind again, ‘You must visit Stiftskeller’ – and forcing me to refocus my attention on the map I was holding. It had to be somewhere here, I thought to myself, but where? My predilection for dining in places with history, made me adamant not to leave Salzburg, without visiting St. Peter Stiftskeller — reputedly one of Europe’s oldest operating inns with over 1200 years of hospitality. Ever since Henry’s recommendation, the allure of the hostelry fueled my curiosity. Luckily, a business trip took me to 118
Salzburg soon after, and I had the good fortune – not once, but twice – of dining at the Stiftskeller. A friendly old gentleman resolved my predicament, and directed me straight into the spacious courtyard of St. Peter’s Archabbey. Stiftskeller, the Restaurant, is located beside the St. Peter’s Church — with the ‘onion dome’ turret — and is hard to miss. A drop-down banner and a wall panel declares it ‘Europe’s oldest restaurant’, while the shield hanging over the entrance arch bears the inscription ‘seit 803’ (since 803 AD) reinforce it. Stiftskeller used to be the "wine cellar" of the monks. The abbey itself is considered to be the oldest in the German speaking area, founded by St Rupert in 696. Although the Guinness World Record for the oldest restaurant is held by Spain’s Botin (1725), Stiftskeller’s claim is apparently supported by a historical deed dating back to 803 AD, where it was first mentioned by Alcuin of York, an English scholar in the court of Emperor Charlemagne.
For centuries, Stiftskeller was the meeting place of princes, bishops, merchants and prominent citizens. It’s safe to say that some important historical decisions or activities, as we know today, may well have taken place within these old walls. The Mozart family once dined here; composer Michael Hayden resided on the top floor in the 1760s; and the nameless 14th century poet and songwriter, the Monk of Salzburg, gave Stiftskeller its place in literature in 1370. Even today, Stiftskeller attracts a mélange of curious tourists, famous personalities from the world of fashion, music, and sports, royalty, as well as, Salzburgers. However, Stiftskeller’s storied past isn’t the only thing that makes it worth a visit. I was thrilled to discover that their food did not disappoint. Creative genius, Chef Andreas Krebs, cleverly blends traditional cuisine with modern expression. By the time your dish arrives at your table, it looks as impressive as anything you might expect to be served at an upscale restaurant. Stiftskeller’s
menu relies on fresh Salzburg produce and seasonal fare, which means you are certain to find a new menu every time you visit. After asking the helpful server for recommendations, my companion and I settled for onion soup and cream of carrot and ginger. While we waited for our appetizers to arrive, we were served a basket of fresh bread, which we relished hungrily with pine nut butter, colorful spreads and olive oil. The onion zuppa turned out to be very good. For our main course, we ordered duet of Salmon, which was flavorful in its simplicity, and a side of mixed salad. We capped off our dinner with coffee, and a cherry and chocolate dessert under the Salzburg night sky. But I noted that their specialty was the Salzburger Nockrel, a local pudding, as many patrons seem to order. Unfortunately, my unpleasant experience with the soufflé in a café in Getreidegasse, refrained me from attempting to eat another. My second visit, was sadly a brief one, but nonetheless enchanting. The kitchen had already served its last order, leaving us with only two viable choices: drinks and desserts. With the late-March weather still pretty cold, we headed inside, and seated ourselves beneath the framed picture of Peter Klotz, abbot of St. Peter, and whose picture must have been hanging in the same place since the 1930s. Between sips of hot Espressos, we enjoyed a generous serving of Crème Brûlée and Apple Strudel, a Grandma's recipe with vanilla ice cream. One of my companions declared it the very best he had ever tasted. The restaurant has various dining options. A brick cellar, a parlor, an enclosed open-air courtyard, and several elegantly decorated dining rooms on the upper levels, with a capacity to accommodate up to 700 guests. I preferred the courtyard to the closed, and a little stuffy, parlor. When I first dined there in 2013, the Wilibaldhohle and the open-air courtyard had just been redesigned. Under the old stone arcade, tables and chairs were covered in pristine white giving it a cozy ambience. Overall, it’s a classic marriage of an old structure and modern décor – a clever move by its current hosts. One of the highlights of dining at the Stiftskeller is the Mozart Dinner Concert. Debuted in 1996, it is held every evening in the elegant Baroque Hall on the top level, and is an elaborate affair, complete with period-dressed servers, performance of Mozart’s compositions, and a menu adapted from 18th century recipes. The now refurbished hall was originally built in 1903. Although I did not have the chance to try it out, I’ve heard good reviews and it sounds interesting. Salzburg ranks amongst Europe’s loveliest cities, especially, the historic ‘old town’ and features in every traveler’s European tour. And whether you are on business, honeymooning, or just visiting the city for its famed beauty, the Stiftskeller is easily a dining delight. I consider, and recommend, it a Salzburg special. If you are ever in Austria, you can find Stiftskeller at St. Peter Bezirk 1/4, 5020 Salzburg, Austria. If you would like more information about Europe’s oldest restaurant, visit www.stpeter-stiftskeller.at. Images courtesy: St. Peter Stiftskeller 119
A FASHION INSIGHT
The psychology behind the Hipster Movement by Yasmine Dalloul
Let's talk about Hipsters. The concept has become so widespread that it’s safe to assume most people know at least one person they would define as a Hipster. What is a Hipster, anyway? Is there really a definition? Some may say a Hipster is somebody who consistently tries too hard to be ironic, while others may insist that Hipsters are a group of pretentious and judgemental tools. In my opinion, both definitions apply, but as a selfproclaimed fashion theorist I have come to gather that Hipsters are the modern day Beatniks of our generation, who actually may have a delicate psychology behind the movement we have come to both covet and mock. Let us reflect on the past 14 years of fashion; doesn't it seem like we’ve managed to turn a full circle since the year 2004? Yes, the vintage look and influences from the past were always trendy throughout the 20th century, but up till the return of leggings, most pieces were all new concepts, or concepts that were deemed as classic. Take the year 2007 as an example: flip through the pages of any Vogue of that year and you'll find skinny jeans, v-neck cashmere sweaters, cropped jackets, and knee-high boots with jeans tucked in. Neutral tones with vibrant neon detailing. Small glasses were the norm and fashion was just...modern. It didn't seem like anyone was trying too hard. About one year later, I had noticed a new movement had taken storm among the generation when I would visit my sister in Montreal. I thought it was bizarre how a lot of her friends had taken up an extremely simple way of living that wasn't modern or complicated. These people looked as though they had walked out of the scenes of 1980s movies with their skinny jeans, Doc Martens, oversized and ragged knit sweaters, loose toques, and grim facial expressions as they drank from their Mason jars and listened to records in their quaint Plateau apartments when the “normal” and “expected” was to live downtown. I was living in a smaller city at the time and had noticed that none of my friends or any of their friends had felt the need to mimic this lifestyle. It was as though the thought had never occurred to them. Halifax being a much smaller city, had citizens who were more than happy with their five appliances, Uggs paired with Lulu Lemon leggings, and breakfasts at Chez Cora every Sunday. But the economy was crashing, the political world was going nuts, and there were lots of unsettling theories and conspiracies about our future. Collectively, I'd say with the way it was going down, our generation had the right to be angry with our parents. It makes sense that these kids who we called Hipsters wanted to revolt against their parents' frivolity that had taken the world through such highs and lows on political and economical levels. What does that mean? Everything old 120
must be new again, and let us save, save, save. Everything that is quaint is fashionable. If it looks like something you would have owned as a child, your mother, father, aunt, or uncle would have owned as a child, and an apartment your grandmother would have lived in when she was your age, it was considered cool. Thriftiness had become a trend, and the thrifty people obviously flocked together with their similar interests. Personally, I was a little surprised when I'd noticed a couple of years later how Hipster fashion had made it through the pages of Vogue. I had never in a million years expected it to be fashionably acceptable to look like Topanga Lawrence again, or to wear Steve Urkel eyeglasses – even though my personal taste had taken to the look when I had first discovered it. On some level, I find it fishy, how easily we returned to a whole decade that had only just passed. Was it because we were simply bored of the monotonous metallic and neon colors of the futuristic 2000s? Or, were we starting to think like the Hipsters and flock back to what we used to know, before the world was complicated. The 90's wardrobe has been the peak of Hipster
fashion for the past couple of years. And whenever I wear high-waisted Levi's shorts, I feel 8 years old again, not worrying about nuclear war or whether or not we are actually living in a 1984 environment. If I feel this way, others must as well – otherwise the trend wouldn't have taken so strongly. I really don't think the movement was intended to define our generation, I feel that the image the Hipster was initially trying to convey was one of simplicity that had spun out of control. But when we think about the concept of everything old being new again, is it possible that we are clinging to the familiar because we are afraid of the future? It is an interesting concept to think about next time you're at a quaint cafe where the room is glittered with people dressed in clothes that are inspired by decades throughout the 20th century but everyone is on their smartphones, tablets and personal computers. With that image, I always think: If someone were to teleport themselves from the 1960s, they would be extremely confused. On the other hand, I'm glad we're not dressed in robot garb yet, and we can have fun with clothes from the decades we had missed out on.
PROTEGES
bazaar a la mode TOPSHOP X ADIDAS ORIGINALS - SPORTY CHIC IS THE SEASON’S NEW SPEAK This season, high street giant TOPSHOP teams up with ADIDAS ORIGINALS for a second collaboration. The seven-piece collection sees a selection of iconic ADIDAS ORIGINALS pieces reengineered by TOPSHOP to create an exclusive capsule of essential staples that features the perfect fusion of street style with rich sport heritage. The TOPSHOP design team reworked a number of ADIDAS ORIGINALS classics including the SUPERSTAR jacket and shoes, the oversized logo tee, and side-stripe pants and shorts, to reflect the distinctive TOPSHOP design aesthetic. “Our love of fashion and sportswear comes to life in this capsule collection. Sports style classics with bold graphic numbers are the superstar looks this season.” Kate Phelan – Creative Director, TOPSHOP. The classic SUPERSTAR jacket is given a lux, feminine treatment for the TOPSHOP girl, constructed in soft, cream perforated leather paneling to create a slim silhouette, whilst footwear pays homage to an ADIDAS ORIGINALS classic, the SUPERSTAR shoe, with two new updates including a clear sole and a metallic cracked leather shell-toe. The simple monochromatic palette is punctuated with flashes of bold red; a color scheme inspired by 80s hip-hop iconography. The original ADIDAS ORIGINALS trefoil logo is the hero motif for the collection, with large scale placement on the oversized sweat and t-shirts. In celebration of sporting success, the pieces are trimmed with stopwatch timing details along with the iconic ADIDAS ORIGINALS three stripes. “Our capsule with Topshop is the perfect partnership, as it allows us to explore a contemporary fashion aesthetic while paying homage to our iconic sportswear roots.” Josefine Aberg – Design Director, ADIDAS ORIGINALS. Follow #TOPSHOPXORIGINALS for more on the collection. Available at TOPSHOP Avenues and Marina Mall.
ADOLFO DOMINGUEZ – TIMELESS BEAUTY Adolfo Dominguez brings to the world of fashion a timeless beauty of refined lines. Innovation without renouncing traditional methods: “I have an artist’s soul and the tailor’s trade has a high artistic component to it. I love to work with my hands.” “The future? I’m no prophet. I will never make anything garish, but, true to a constant longing for that breath of inspiration, I will make poetry.” Today, the company’s strategy consists of a signature design based on experimentation. Adolfo Dominguez clearly states “my clothes do not highlight differences in status as much as they do differences in spirit and intellect. I dress the vast minority, in the memorable words of the poet Juan Ramón Jiménez.” The company is consolidating its international expansion and today is present in over 35 countries. Adolfo Dominguez is a company with a long tradition dating back to 1973 and a small tailor’s workshop. The 1980’s marked the arrival of the slogan “Creased is beautiful”: “I wanted my clothes to be like a second skin. Each face is etched with the innermost secrets of every human being”
TAG Heuer FORMULA 1 - DAVID GUETTA David Guetta, universally accredited with being one of the First DJs to open up the world of electronic music to global charts' audiences, transforming the sound of radio and with it, the musical tastes of millions of listeners across the world, is TAG Heuer's new ambassador. The new TAG Heuer Formula 1 special edition is dedicated to him. The watch is designed with travel in mind thanks to its GMT function and "day/night" symbol; the watch is in the perfect colors for clubbing and features an impressive cuff watch strap. The black and blue aluminum bezel is one of the most striking elements in the design. The watch features a 24hour display, with daytime hours from 6 am to 6 pm shown in blue and night-time hours from 6 pm to 6 am shown in black; it also features a second time zone, a very useful function for staying connected with friends and family when you travel a lot! The dial, which is black with blue hands and appliques, also extends the "day/night" metaphor and the cuff strap is wide like a wristband and made from aged black calfskin, echoing clubbers' codes. Its high-quality finishes, with its tone-on-tone stitching and black ardillon buckle with Tag Heuer engraving, make it a must-have watch for 2015.
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DESIGNER RAMI KADI LAUNCHED AT AL OSTOURA On April 8, 2015, Al Ostoura hosted a very special evening to celebrate the launch of LebaneseAmerican couturier Rami Kadi’s brand in their stores. The event was held at Al Ostoura’s lounge in Thuraya Mall. Live music and performances created an enjoyable atmosphere for customers and dignitaries who attended the function. The designer Rami Kadi displayed contemporary couture dresses that he designed exclusively for Al-Ostoura. Al Ostoura stocks the exciting label in their multi-brand boutiques located at Al-Thuraya Mall – Salmyia.
SUPERMODELS AND AN EXCLUSIVE SOUNDTRACK TO THE SUMMER WITH H&M’S NEW CAMPAIGN With a cast of supermodels, H&M’s new summer 2015 campaign will be the soundtrack to the season, thanks to an exclusive track by Axwell /\ Ingrosso. Modern Bohemia sets the mood at H&M this summer, with kaleidoscopic paisley sundresses and tieside bikinis, as well as tropical leaf prints on long flowing skirts and bikini tops. Monochromatic dressing makes an impact, whether it is white lace-front tunics, vest tops and frilled skirts, or black knot-fronted gowns and long-sleeved dresses that are perfectly accessorised with decorative silver necklaces. Bikinis are essential this season, especially a frilled one-shoulder bandeau with frilled bottoms, or bikinis that are held at the front and side by decorative metallic rings. The campaign stars Joan Smalls, Natasha Poly, Doutzen Kroes and Adriana Lima, who take the roles of action heroes with a mission to get ashore and celebrate the best of summer. “It was amazing for us to work with H&M on this summer campaign with our new song, "Sun Is Shining". We’re always proud to work with Swedish brands, and with summer finally upon us we can’t wait for everyone to hear one of the songs from our forthcoming album” says Axwell /\ Ingrosso.
SUMMER SOJOURNS AT AL OSTOURA Evoke the joys of the season with summer’s hottest prints. Stripes are popular, as well as other quirky animal motifs. If you’re bold enough, you can even opt for pop art-inspired patterns and graphics. Bags should be on point to cover all your travel needs. Bucket bags and cute backpacks work best. Pair them with chunky yet comfy sliders to help you put your best foot forward! When it comes to silhouettes, opt for a shift dress or a more bohemian asymmetric style. Draped pants and roomy shorts look best to give off that resort vibe. For more information visit www.alostoura.com.
SHOEXPRESS SPRING SUMMER COLLECTION 2015 Shoexpress has concocted a creatively relaxing change for men, women and children this Spring, a cross-seasonal urban vibe that is modernly chic. Shoexpress’ new season releases are a sure fire hit to make it as your choice of addition to your wardrobe. For women nothing aids a fashion upgrade like sashaying your decree for the iconic must-have pieces with modern twists, like their range of fashionable trainers with doily delights and tribal dose of excitement that are incredibly vogue and easy to pair; Go crazy over their range of confectioned pastels of ballerinas and sleek flats with notes of mattes, lace and patents to match; Dare to say electric like the metallic ranges of sandals and sneaks which are sure to catch waves of modern vibe fused with corks soles and leisurely delights of sneaker wedges and metallic hard wares; Stay true, but new with their range of the canvas that delivers heaps of fashion quotient with fun-loving designs and playful palettes. So rush now to your favorite Shoexpress store located at Star Mall, Mubarakiya, Farwaniya and The Avenues.
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bazaar techno Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. ~ Arthur C. Clarke
SAMSUNG GALAXY S6 EDGE
NVIDIA SHIELD ANDROID TV CONSOLE
HYPERKIN SMARTBOY
No micro SD slot. No user-accessible battery. And no Apple branding. The Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge takes a page from Cupertino's book to deliver a metal and glass phone that's the company's best yet, made even more interesting by the signature dual-curve, 5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display. Other specs include an octacore processor running Android 5.0, a 16 megapixel, f/1.9 rear camera with optical image stabilization, a 5 megapixel front-facing camera, 3GB of RAM, and support for both WPC and PMA wireless charging, meaning that if you need to plug it in to charge it, you're doing it wrong.
Part media streamer, part gaming rig, Nvidias Shield Android TV Console is the latest device vying for that spot next to your TV. It's powered by an Nvidia Tegra X1 processor, a 256-core Nvidia Maxwell GPU with 3 GB RAM, and Android TV, giving it the ability to support 4K output and a new class of Android games. In addition to its ability to pump TV and movies into your living room and play games locally, it supports Nvidia's Grid service, letting you stream PC-quality games directly to the box and makes that ugly HTPC a thing of the past.
Playing Game Boy games on your iPhone has been possible for a while, if you were lucky enough to grab a sneaky app or just jailbroke your device. But you've never been able to do it like this. Still in the development stages, the Hyperkin Smartboy promises to wrap your phone in a highly familiar body, complete with physical controls and a slot on the back for playing real cartridges — which might be enough to make it App Store-friendly. Whatever the case, you can rest assured it'll be a must-have for any nostalgic iPhone owner if/when it finally comes out.
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www.uncrate.com
www.uncrate.com
HUAWEI WATCH
APPLE WATCH
PHANTOM 2 VISION+
The name is refreshingly to-the-point: it's called the "Huawei Watch." The device is the same basic idea as the LG Watch Urbane, but it's executed better. You get a jewelry-style watch with a fully round screen. While the Urbane only has a 1.3-inch 320x320 display, the Huwaei Watch has a 1.4-inch 400x400 display (286 PPI), making it the highest resolution Android Wear device yet. The bezel is smaller than the Urbane, too, and combined with a smaller body, it allows the watch to fit better on more wrists. Due for release in summer 2015.
In direct competition, as always, with the Android watches (we are fair, here at bazaar, to feature both operating systems), comes Apples input to the smart watch revolution. Apple describes their watch as “an incredibly accurate timepiece, an intimate and immediate communication device and a groundbreaking health and fitness companion.” It essentially does what smart watches before it also do; allows you to install apps, get notifications from your phone, monitor fitness and tell the time. Expect various prices. Available for purchase from now.
Phantom 2 Vision+ is the best-selling camera drone on the market – and with good reason. It's a relatively affordable, relatively friendly and relatively easy to fly quadcopter that arrives nearly fully assembled and is easy enough for a beginner to operate straight out of the box, even if we recommend you fly something cheaper first to get the hang of things. It has a decent quality, tilt-controllable camera that shoots 1080p HD video footage and 14 megapixel photos, and the camera delivers smooth footage thanks to a multiaxis stabilizing gimbal.
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OUTLANDISH
bazaar checks it out WHAT’S NEW IN BATH & BODY WORKS FRAGRANCES FOR 2015: NEWEST COLLECTION: LOVE & SUNSHINE The happiest, most fresh and playful fragrance under the sun! The newest addition to Bath & Body Works’ Signature Collection, Love & Sunshine is guaranteed to make you smile. The fresh and playful fragrance is a bright, happy blend of the juiciest fruits, brightest blooms and most cheerful citrus – it’s happiness in a bottle! Fragrance Notes: Top: Pear Blossom, Mara Strawberry, Juicy Kiwi, Sweet Lemon, Honeydew Melon Mid: Sunkissed Daisies, Lily of the Valley, Golden Honeysuckle Dry: Coconut Orchid, Amber Woods, Cedar Wood, Sunshine Musk It’s time to smell the happy! A THOUSAND WISHES! Bath & Body Works invites you to experience its Signature Collection fragrance: A Thousand Wishes. With sparkling starfruit, crystal peonies and almond crème, each key note adds an element of vivaciousness and comfort to the scent. The elegant fragrance, combined with beautifully designed packaging, makes A Thousand Wishes the perfect gift for you and the people you love most. Fragrance Notes: Top: Pink Prosecco, Sparkling Starfruit, Golden Quince Mid: Crystal Peonies, Purple Freesia Dry: Gilded Amber, Amaretto Crème, Sugared Sandalwood, Velvet Musk A beautiful sparkling box with a luxe bow makes this the perfect gift to impress someone special. LET’S GO TO BRAZIL! Inspired by lush landscape, exotic jungles and rushing waterfalls of Brazil, Bath & Body Works’ Brazil collection is infused with luscious ingredients and vibrant colors. This Collection has 3 NEW fragrances: COOL Amazon Rain – Nature’s most refreshing blend that will drench her senses with exotic starfruit and dewy bamboo. Key notes: Amazon Rain, Brazilian Starfruit, Frangipani, Exotic Mandarin, Dewy Bamboo. LUSH Pink Dragonfruit – An addictive fragrance bursting with Brazil’s most seductive fruits, including dragonfruit and jungle plum. Key notes: Pink Dragonfruit, Wild Waterlilies, Pomegranate Caipirinha, Jungle Plum, Passionfruit Nectar. FRESH Brazil Citrus – Their most sun-drenched fragrance that captures the exotic beauty of Brazil with luscious citrus and pineapple. Key notes: Exotic Citrus, Luscious Pineapple, Mango Nectar, Tiare, Passionflower. Take off to Brazil with Bath & Body Works! With more than 1,700 stores across the globe, Bath & Body Works takes pride in providing its customers with a world-class selection of beauty products, and has redefined the way customers wear fragrance with The Daily Trio. Customers can ‘layer’ their favorite scent in three simple steps – cleanse, moisturize and fragrance - to make it part of their everyday personal care routine. In addition to sumptuous body care, Bath & Body Works offers visitors the most luxurious Hand Soaps, Sanitizers, and Home Fragrance products, including the World’s Best Candles! Pampering collections such as True Blue Spa and Aromatherapy simply add to the charm, making it the perfect one-stop shop for personal fragrance. For more information, phone 182 1212 or follow them on Facebook: Bath and Body Works Middle East or Instagram or Twitter @bbwmena.
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OFFICINE PANERAI INTRODUCES LIMITED EDITION RADIOMIR CERAMICA-45MM WATCH On Wednesday April 15th 2015, Officine Panerai, the Florentine luxury sports watchmaking house known for its unique fusion of Italian design and Swiss manufacturing skill, hosted an exclusive VIP reception in collaboration with Morad Yousuf Behbehani at Sky lounge 55th floor in Al Hamra tower. A great attendance marked the event in which the reveal of the latest Kuwait Special Edition Watch, Radiomir Ceramica 45mm (Pam00612) took place. The special Kuwait timepiece is made in only 78 units and sold exclusively at the Panerai boutique in Al Hamra tower. Besides a lovely Panerai atmosphere and some jazz entertainment, guests had the opportunity to try on the special edition watch as well as explore the additional watch collection on display.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON KUWAIT LAUNCHES STREET 750 TO INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF GLOBAL RIDERS Harley-Davidson is continuing its monumental ride, which began with the introduction of Project RUSHMORE, by launching a new Dark Custom motorcycle designed for young urban riders around the world. The new motorcycle was launched on April 10th at Harley-Davidson Kuwait. The event included a grand unveiling of the fully custom Street 750 that welcomed an audience of over 150 people enthusiastically waiting to see the new addition to the Dark Custom family. The launch brought together Harley-Davidson fans and their families for a fun-filled afternoon with a barbeque, refreshments and a variety of activities and entertainment. The Harley-Davidson Street 750 motorcycle is built for urban environments with all-new liquid-cooled Revolution X powertrain, nimble agility and the sound and look that lets everyone know it is a genuine Harley-Davidson. The bike is aimed at attracting young Kuwaiti Riders who are looking to enter the world of Harley-Davidson inclusive of women who would like to be part of the Ladies of Harley family. Street 750 will also be a perfect choice for new beginner riders of Arabs, Western Expats and Asians. The new Street 750 was designed with thousands of hours of input from young adults in cities around the world. It is proof that being customer-led continues to be a core driver of the product development process.
BURGERFUEL OPENS SECOND BRANCH IN KUWAIT AT MIRAL BurgerFuel recently announced the opening of a new restaurant in Mangaf, Kuwait, the second for the prosperous country in the Middle East, and number 72 for BurgerFuel globally. The new restaurant is part of Miral, a brand new restaurant complex and will be one of 45 food offerings available in this dedicated dining destination. The complex has been built right next to the water and offers excellent sea views down the coast of Kuwait. Located in the suburb of Mangaf, in southern Kuwait, Miral neighbors the Hilton Hotel and is surrounded by apartment blocks, shopping facilities and office towers. The area also has a large ex-pat contingent due to a nearby oil refinery. This second Kuwait based BurgerFuel outlet has been opened by Gourmet Food Supplies (GFS) which is a Joint Venture between Al Khayyat Investments, AKI (current BurgerFuel UAE partner, who also operate the 13 Dubai and Abu Dhabi BurgerFuel restaurants) and United Dynamics, a Kuwaiti based company. BurgerFuel Worldwide (BFW) is a New Zealand gourmet burger concept with a presence in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kuwait, New Zealand and Australia. For more information visit www.burgerfuel.com.
ECCO O2 The most important lifestyle trends to embrace right now? Getting back to basics, enjoying the outdoors and reconnecting with nature – modern luxuries we owe it to ourselves to experience. This season, ECCO introduces the perfect shoe for both women and men, to accompany you on every invigorating spring outing – and everyday activities, too. The sporty ECCO O2 boasts 360 degree ventilation and 100% weather protection for all-round climate control. Featuring a sole with a smart air channelling system and breathable yak leather uppers, it offers more effective heat transportation, as well as a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX SURROUND membrane. All to keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable, no matter if the mercury is rising or the rain is pouring. So take a deep breath and enjoy! To check it out and more, visit one of their 6 stores in Kuwait which include Marina Mall, Avenues Mall, Muthanna complex, Mohalab complex, Al Kout Mall and opening soon in Promenade Mall.
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bazaar investigates RIVER ISLAND – SPRING/SUMMER 2015 WOMENSWEAR COLLECTION Spring/Summer 2015 at River Island evokes nostalgia, drawing influence from past eras. Classic pieces are reworked with a modern twist to create a refreshing and original collection for the season ahead. A unique and directional approach is taken to create outstanding hero pieces. Fierce folk meets seventies boho to create Nero. Black dominates, steering the collection away from pretty and feminine, creating a sultry harder edge, whilst subtle hints of glam jacquards and touches of metallic add interest to the dark palette. Texture is key, teaming super soft bikers with leather trousers and suede fringed capes. A soothing palette of whites and creams creates the contrasting sub-trend Modern Bohemian. White lace, embroidery and cutwork combine for a softer approach with a haute hippie feel, touches of tan and fringing toughen up the overall feel of the collection. Retro inspired dressing prevails for Spring/Summer 15, with the 70’s being a heavy influencer. The rich earthy palette is injected with slices of metallic and jeweled colored Jacquards. Flares are key for the trend, whilst structured suiting and slinky halter neck tops offer an alternative to evening wear. More casual looks can be created with bell bottom jeans, skinny scarves and retro eastern prints. Inspired by the 60’s, Sugar is youthful and naïve. Irreverent styling creates a cheeky and fun vibe with tweed trainers teamed with cute embellished lace dresses, or checked mini skirts worn with quirky print tees, all in sweet pastel hues. Ghetto sport meets urban glam with a 90’s influence to create Glamathon Mono. With a simple monochrome palette, splashes of bold color are added to keep the range refreshing and young. This collection uses clean modern lines for a luxurious minimal feel. Details are added through sporty stripes and curved color blocking on tailored separates and dresses. Playing with new proportions and sporty elements, silhouettes are elongated, incorporating longer lengths and asymmetry. Mesh paneling is placed on clean tailoring for an urban cool vibe. Relaxed city shorts are worn with mesh knits to present a fresh laid back approach. Urban tailoring with sharp PU and leather pieces create an air of ferocity. Nautical Blues embrace stripes. Print clashing is key; striped bold cotton knits are teamed with striped jackets and bashed denim shorts. Clean tailoring creates a smart casual feel with a hint of 60’s coming through, from retro prints in reds, blues and off whites. For more information follow River Island on Facebook: River Island ME, or on Instagram @RiverIslandME.
THE AIGNER STORY From bookbinding to the forefront of haute couture - the story of Etienne Aigner is a spell of optimism and sincerity of a man who inspired the inception of a truly international brand. Etienne Aigner was born to a Hungarian Jewish family in 1904. He grew up in Budapest and began working in the bookbinding trade. His ingenuity and craftsmanship quickly became evident as he invented new methods of binding. When German occupation hit, Etienne fled Paris. He went back only once the war ended and his return saw him embark on a career in fashion. In this new career move, Etienne applied his leather crafting skills to design handbags and belts. Before he knew it - a good number of haute couture houses started taking notice of his art. Christian Dior was one of the many brands that commissioned Etienne and bought his designs. In the year 1950, Etienne moved to New York, where he produced and presented his first collection of leather goods under his own name. This move proved crucial for the couturist as it caused a major stir and officiated "AIGNER" on the fashion scene. He soon set up a business from his bedroom, making belts and bags in a single color of rich burgundy, for at that time it was all that he could afford. For the monogram of the brand, he manipulated the letter "A" in the shape of a horseshoe, to spell luck. By the mid-1950s, Etienne's designs had found their way into leading departmental stores. As his finances improved, he was soon able to experiment his craft in a range of colors. The quality of his goods and their flawless cuts earned Etienne the nickname of - "The Man with the Golden hands." Aigner expanded its product line and its geographical reach during the 1970s and 80s. Luggage, shoes, scarves, neckties, cosmetics, clothing, jewelry and watches - the brand went international through the franchise system. Even though, the company changed hands over the years - what was and still remains in true element is the heritage of the brand. The story that Etienne Aigner had scripted in his designs still resonate in the brand's current day features. Today the brand is a symbol for unique craftsmanship, highest quality and perfection. A brilliant combination of German precision and Tuscan tradition. A German brand with an Italian soul - Aigner… 128
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bazaar around town HARVEY NICHOLS KUWAIT UNVEILS DAZZLING NEW FOOTWEAR BOUTIQUE Harvey Nichols Kuwait, the international luxury lifestyle destination offering exclusivity in fashion and beauty, is pleased to announce the launch of its second ‘Think Inside the Box’ campaign event with the stunning unveiling of its newly expanded footwear and shoe boutique. The lavish affair attracted a bevy of fashonistas and celebrity influencers who marvelled at the striking collection. Making a special appearance at the event was renowned designer, Aennis Eunis – a trailblazer whose take on footwear includes stylish snakeskin and bold color combinations. The evening was additionally enlivened with music and entertainment and showcased an exciting array of international footwear by innovative designers including Alberto Moretti, trendsetting Italian designer Joshua Sanders and Finnish designer Minna Parikka, whose new range brings a blast of Asian pop to Kuwait. Italian designer LEO added an ironic and quirky flavor to the season’s new look, yet retained a very feminine touch. Spanish brand Manebi presented a casual cool aesthetic inspired by different European regions, while Sergio Rossi’s shoewear drew acclaim from guests for his celebration of femininity and modernity. Over the years, Harvey Nichols has cultivated a reputation for boasting lines directly sourced from fashion capitals around the globe including Paris, Milan, London and New York. Their ‘Think Inside of the Box’ campaign encourages customers to let their imaginations run free and think of all the fabulous inventive looks they can unwrap, discover and create. The ‘Think Inside the Box’ events have been designed to introduce the fun and edgy aspects of Harvey Nichols Kuwait and establish the brand as a leading destination for designer accessories in Kuwait. The third and final event will be arriving soon and will focus on their expanded jewellery collection. For more details on ‘Think inside the Box’, follow @harveynicholskuwait #ThinkInsideTheBoxQ8 on Instagram.
IS YOUR CHILD GETTING ENOUGH VITAMIN D? According to a Children & Nature Network (C&NN) report, an average boy and girl spend just four to seven minutes in outdoor recreation each day, whereas seven to eight hours in front of a television screen, resulting in a negative toll on one’s health including obesity, ADHD, increase in stress, and disturbances in cognitive functioning. The study strongly recommends the importance of the wilderness and nature-based experiences in a child’s daily routine which helps in a range of benefits to the child, including wholesome development and well-being such as reduced body fat, reduced anxiety and stress, improved self-esteem, positive changes in behavior and improvement in knowledge and skills acquisition. It emphasizes on how by being out in fresh air, parents not only open the door for kid's imaginations, but also allow them to interact with nature and other kids, which help boost their confidence and build social skills. As the importance of outdoor playing becomes clearer, a world of limitless possibilities for fun opens up. And where children are concerned, the role of toys works out naturally. With this, stimulating and adventurous options of outdoor playing combined with toys come along. Toys that promote balance and coordination, such as ball games, scooters and bikes, trampolines, playhouses; toys that teach children new skills, encourage the development of self-confidence and satisfy their interest in exploration, while they master skills at their own pace. Playing outside is a great way for kids to get creative and help promote extended imaginative play. Swings, trampolines and slides are a great investment as parents get some time off while the kids get their Vitamin D! And with the mention of toys, who understands the world of play better than the Kuwait based toy retailer store, Fantasy World! The store, an advocate of children’s physical and mental well-being, offers a dedicated department, Outdoor & Sports which hosts some of the best options that contribute to increased physical activity such as the Buckingham Climb ‘n Slide, Bouncy Castle, Simba Squab Catch ball, Trampolines from Little Tikes, or have fun on wheels on the EzyRoller. And with the onset of spring, Fantasy World encourages all parents to move your child from indoors to the great outdoors!
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VISUAL ARTS STUDENTS FROM AIS VISIT CAP GALLERY The Visual Arts students of the American International School Kuwait, grades nine to twelve, visited Contemporary Art Platform in Shuwaikh to view the retrospective exhibition of Sami Mohamed and meet the artist. For the students – some of whom had never entered an art gallery before – this was an unprecedented opportunity to see internationally acclaimed artwork and meet Kuwait’s preeminent realist sculptor. The show includes over 120 bronze, marble and alabaster sculptures, drawings, installations and other work. The extraordinarily conceptual curation of the exhibition is the handiwork of Mr Abed Al Kadiri, CAP’s director. Along with Alia Um Saif, CAP’s program director, Mr. Sami Mohamed provided the students with a personal guided tour of his life, his work and his artistic philosophy. This is only one of several art field trips AIS students have taken this year to Kuwait’s museums, galleries and cultural landmarks, led by art teachers Mrs. Angie Hani and Mr. Bryn Barnard, to infuse classroom instruction with real-world experience. The American International School offers the International Baccalaureate, which prepares students for acceptance at the world’s top English-language universities. Graduates of the IB visual art program have gone on to earn top positions in the art, film and fashion worlds. AIS is located in Medan Hawally.
AM ART & DESIGN GALLERY OPENS IN KUWAIT AM, an interior design company, has recently partnered with Mervat Al Nabulsi, an art curator who has managed well established art galleries in Kuwait, and together they launched a new art gallery. The launching event took place on March 25th in the gallery, which is located in downtown Kuwait, Mobarak Alkabeer St., next to the Chamber of Commerce, and was launched in the presence of many talented celebrity artists and VIPs. The AM ART&DESIGN GALLERY will be the hub to showcase the best pieces created by local, Arab and international artists. AM Art & Design Gallery is located on Mubarak Al-Kabeer St, Mirqab, behind Kuwait Chamber of Commerce. For more information you can contact them on 9904 8855 or 9970 5129 or follow them on Instagram @amdesignart.
JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA PARTNERS WITH PORSCHE CENTRE KUWAIT TO OFFER ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY TRANSPORT Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait’s idyllic resort, has partnered with Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company to help raise awareness of environmentally friendly transport options. The hotel hosted the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid car at its main entrance to provide an alternative luxury mode of transport for the hotel’s VIP guests and celebrities, while at the same time raising awareness of hybrid cars and educating motorists about reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid is the world’s first plug-in hybrid model on the luxury class market. The 416 hp model has an electric driving range of up to 36 km after which the vehicle will switch to normal fuel or the driver can recharge it. The car has an NEDC fuel consumption of just 3.1 liters per 100 km which equates to CO2 emissions of just 71 g/km – the same level as a compact car. In addition to the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, Porsche is a market-leader in the production of plug-in hybrid cars and is the only manufacturer to offer three hybrid models. Its E-Hybrid line-up includes the Panamera S E-Hybrid, 918 Spyder and the recently launched Cayenne S E-Hybrid – the world’s first plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment. DR. SULAIMAN AL SAAD JOINS THE PEDIATRIC DEPARTMENT AT ROYALE HAYAT HOSPITAL Royale Hayat Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Sulaiman Al Saad, a highly qualified Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatal Intensivist. He is a member of the Kuwait Pediatric League, founder of the International Neonatal Association in Europe, Canadian fellowship in Neonatal Perinatal Medicine and Saudi Board in Pediatrics. Dr. Sulaiman joined the experienced physicians, doctors and nurses at the newly renovated Pediatric Department to treat newborn (neonate) diseases, perform checkups and treat newborn disorders, growth and nutrition in neonate and children, infectious diseases in children, in addition to treating asthma and allergy, skin condition in children, and infectious diseases in pediatrics. Royale Hayat Pediatric Department provides various treatments such as general checkup of infants, child growth and development, infant hearing test, high-risk infant progress, surgical services, anesthesia, cardiology, dentistry, newborn screening, endocrinology and diabetes, ENT, immunology and allergy, in addition to the advanced units such as, the pediatric intensive care unit, emergency and observation unit and inpatient unit. For more information about Royale Hayat Hospital visit www.royalehayat.com or follow them on Faceook, Instagram or Twitter @royalehayat. 131
bazaar scopes what’s your sign? GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21 A Taurus from your past resurfaces. You’ll find the bull a little deeper than you remember. A midmonth break from your busy schedule brightens your mood. Don’t be afraid to give in to relaxation. It’s really not so bad! Scorpio plays a role. Decisive action is key this month.
CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22 A great month! Something you worked hard for and wanted for some time is finally yours. Don’t be afraid to celebrate in a big way. More free time is on the way, so don’t be afraid to take advantage. An especially romantic weekend is in store. Taurus plays a role. Finances look good.
LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22 Keep a tight hold on valuables or something you love could be lost. This is especially true if you’re traveling this month. Try to make the best of a bad situation. Negative thinking makes matters worse. Staying focused helps you keep pace with a busy workload.
VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22 Speaking up is the only way to make others aware of your frustrations. Keeping it all bottled in won’t help one bit. A flirtation at work could be a recipe for disaster. Know what you’re getting into before flashing that smile. Leo is involved. A good time to get in touch with old friends.
LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22 Before searching far for something you need, take a look right in front of you. It may not seem so obvious at first, but it will be crystal clear in time. A show of independence will work wonders in a romance – especially with Scorpio. An unusual source tells you of an investment opportunity. Good news comes in threes.
any check unless you’re getting a good deal.
CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19 Look back to the past to help fix a problem today. You’ll find that time has a way of repeating itself. Scorpio offers some words of wisdom. New romance should be avoided this month – especially if a Virgo is in the picture. An introspective mood leads you to answers.
AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18 A friend’s offer of help may not be totally selfless. There could be some motives you’re not totally aware of. If you’re looking for a new job, this could be a lucky time. Be sure to explore all options. Social invitations are more abundant now. Don’t be afraid to have some fun.
PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 20 Finances will become an issue – especially if you have moved or taken on additional expenses recently. Careful budgeting will get you through. A “to-do” list helps keep you organized at work. Social activities may have to take a back seat to family obligations this month.
ARIES MAR 21 – APR 19 A “Catch 22” situation arises and causes you frustration early in the month. Creative thinking could turn things around, however. Don’t be afraid to try the unusual. A Libra friend shows you the positive side. Cynicism slows you down. Financial problems may arise later in the month.
TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20 Absence makes the heart grow fonder, especially if you’re involved with Scorpio. A decision you made several months ago has an effect on you this month. A problem that arises will be a blessing in disguise. Expect delays. Leo causes you frustration this month.
SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22 Time spent alone gives you the opportunity to think through problems. You’ll be able to come to terms with a situation that has been troubling you for some time. If you’re in a management position, you may find that it’s lonely at the top. Change is imminent in a romance.
SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 – DEC 21 A career opportunity could come your way when you least expect it. Before discounting it at face value, take a deeper look. There may be more than meets the eye. If a major purchase is in the works, be sure to shop around. Don’t write out
source: www.2015horoscope.com 132
TOYOTA
CO L FROM EVERY ANGLE
ECCO (OBC)