bazaar November 2015 issue by bazaar magazine

Nov 2015 | Issue # 198 w w w. b a z a a r. t o w n

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Hello Movember! No, it’s not a typo or a spelling mistake, it’s actually a real thing that all of us here at bazaar have been trying to raise awareness of for a few years now, both in the magazine and across our social media. So what is Movember? A seamless merger between the slang for moustache, ‘mo’, and ‘November,’ giving us a whole new word with endless potential. This annual ritual - which involves men growing their moustaches from a clean shave to full ‘mo’ throughout November - aims to raise awareness towards men’s health issues, such as depression in men, prostate cancer and other male cancer diseases. Encouraging men to get involved, Movember’s ultimate goal is to change the face of men’s health. By doing so, it’ll hopefully increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments, and ultimately reduce the number of preventable deaths. Sounds good, no? All this is organized and run through the Movember Foundation, which pushes men to lead a healthier lifestyle. Of course here in the Arab world, most men already have lots of facial hair, so it’s a little bit more of a challenge, but it’s still a hugely important issue that we need to discuss and raise awareness of as much as possible, since early detection saves lives. This issue of bazaar is full of awesome interviews with incredible people, reviews of our favorite nom-worthy locations for the month, some great fashion spreads, and of course, our partners in all things creatively challenging and boggling, the return of the Nuqat Creative Conference the 2015 edition. We’ve managed to catch up with two of their fantastic line-up of speakers and got them to answer some questions for us - like their thoughts on this year’s Copy/Paste Syndrome theme and what they’ll be touching on during their lectures. Our feet will be dressed to the nines with our fashion pieces on Jimmy Choo, and Ecco. We dined at Edo’s latest location, Edo on the Shore, and fell deeper in love with their exquisite Donburis and sushi. Not to mention the perfectly golden chicken fingers we munched on at Alshaya’s latest addition, Raising Cane’s. Strategic duo Riham Al Ayyar and Sameh Omran had us buzzing with their most recent venture Philosophy! The ever-so-elegant Fatma Al Naqi has the girls at the bazaar office rethinking their makeup routines, or lack thereof, with her new addition to the F.Naqi Institute, the F.Naqi Academy. We saved our favorite bit of November - other than Nuqat of course - for last, and we present to you Market Season! Hurray for Qout Market and their third season of dining al fresco and shopping by the wicker-basketful. We are also proud to announce the second edition of The Taste of Q8 food festival where we are once again taking part, and that will deliver us with the perfect ending to market season in March 2016.

The bazaar team... Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Operations Tim Burns

Business Development Ihab Mokalled

Design Ahmed Al-Ashab

Content Coordinator/Staff Writer Yasmine El Charif

Staff Writer/Online Media Amira Haroun

Staff Writer Yasmine Dalloul

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Editor Alia Al Duaij

Contributing Writers Dimitar Dakov Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg Jamie Etheridge Lili Barras-Hargan Maryann Horne Mohammed El Soukkary Nejoud Al Yagout Patrick Makhoul Waleed Shaalan

Contributing Photographers

Printing British Industries for Printing and Packaging

members of:

Aziza Al Ghunaim Muneera AlKhulaifi Waleed Shaalan

Syndicates & Sources Baraka Bits Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek

w w w. b p aw w. c o m 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).

Happy Movembering! Ahmed El-Adly

tel. 2461 0017 – fax 2461 0018 info@bazaar-magazine.com www.bazaar.town | Al Argan Complex, Shuwaikh Free Trade Zone @bazaargram bazaarmagazine @bazaartweets

No one likes to be dumped;

recycle me, please.

furla

Avenues 22200756 - Arraya 22997755

INDEX NOV '15

50 MANAR MOURSI Introducing creator and 2015 Nuqat Creative Conference guest speaker/lecturer extraordinaire, Manar Moursi - founder of Studio Meem and co-author to Sidewalk Salon. bazaar sits down and chats with Manar to find out all about the politicizing of chairs, Studio Meem and what she’ll be touching on at the upcoming conference.

126

LEEN SADDER

JIMMY CHOO MTO

From Beirut to New York, to Dubai Bespoke cobbling? Pair the concept to Nuqat, we sit down with THIS with Jimmy Choo shoes and those two Toothbrush creator and guest speaker, words are enough to utter pure bliss! designer Leen Sadder who touches Al Yasra Fashion invites fashionistas all on the Copy/Paste syndrome and over Kuwait to indulge in their Made To dishes what she’ll be discussing at the Order service, launching at Jimmy Choo conference. THIS is one speaker you at The Avenues this fall. won’t want to miss!

64 QOUT MARKET

THE PROTÉGÉS

Qout is back, and this season will be better than ever! The beloved family-friendly activity is going back to basics by downsizing and dedicating spaces to locally grown businesses and farm-fresh goodies. Happening on the first and third Saturday of each month, we at bazaar will be marking our calendars!

What do you get from a youth program that’s dedicated to character building? A group of Kuwait’s most intelligent and determined young individuals! bazaar interviews three Protégés to learn about the program, why it’s so important for Kuwait’s community, and how once you’re a Protégé, you become a Protégé for life.

Waleed Shaalan p.116

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138

EDO ON THE SHORE

ALTERNATIVE SPAIN

Regardless of its location, the quality of the food that you consume at Edo is always impeccable, and the classic Japanese restaurant remains a favorite for sushi enthusiasts of the nation. Enjoy our review of Edo On The Shore at the Sea View complex in Abu Halifa - we sure did!

We at bazaar are absolutely addicted to Spain. So naturally, when our friends at the Spanish Embassy came to us with alternatives to hotspots such as Ibiza and Barcelona, we jumped right in! We discover and wanderlust on lesser-known locations to spread the word of the ultimate Spanish experience - Olé!

116

DAR.NUR

Al Ghanim Entertainment

WALEED SHAALAN

If you’re looking for that one brilliant piece to make a space come alive, dar.nur is the place for you! Filled with imagination and quirk, this gem is a favorite of ours. Delve into the kitschy boutique’s collection and be prepared to walk away with an armload of goodies!

Kuwait goes Hollywood! We get the After celebrating his 50th birthday, skinny on Al Ghanim Entertainment’s biker Waleed Shaalan goes on a riding collaboration with Wes Craven to adventure as he motorcycles through produce The Girl in the Photographs. mountainous India. Filled with imagery Be prepared for a heartwarming and intrigue, Waleed takes us on his twist, as the horror flick is AGE’s first journey as he shares the experiences of project, but sadly, Craven’s final film his travels, and inspires us to start new as he passed away towards the end of adventures of our own! production.

F.NAQI INSTITUTE

HASSAN HAJJAJ

Ladies, the struggle is real, but we’ve discovered the way to conquer the battle of the blush! Enter F.Naqi Institute, a chic hair and makeup salon in the heart of Salwa. F.Naqi’s glam squad is armed and ready to rescue naked faces, one unlined eye at a time.

Discover the man behind the striking cover of our November issue. bazaar features Moroccan artist/photographer Hassan Hajjaj who tells us about his collaboration with fellow Moroccan comrade and designer Amine Bendriouich at the upcoming Sole DXB fair in Dubai. The artistically inclined are sure to appreciate this one.

milly

GROUND FLOOR - SHUHADA STREET ENTRANCE, ARRAYA CENTER, SHARQ TEL 22997739 THE AVENUES PHASE II ( OPPOSITE SHERATON TEA LOUNGE ), ALRAI TEL 22597069

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Al Mubarakiya Dental Clinic - Egaila, Salmiya Al Safat American Hospital Boushahri Clinic Dasman Diabetes Institute Diet Care Center Gulf Clinic International Clinic Maidan Clinic - Fahaheel, Farwaniya, Hawalli, Sharq, Subah Al Salem Noor Clinic Salam Hospital Seif Hospital Soor Center Taiba Clinic The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic

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Al Salam Mall Arraya Haagen Dazs Galleria Al Hamra Elevation Burger Mall 360 Dunkin Donuts Marina Mall/Crescent Casper & Gambini Chocolate Bar Johnny Rockets P.Q. Paul Souq Sharq Starbucks Haagen Dazs Breadz Symphony Mall Juan Valdez The Avenues Elevation Burger Johnny Rockets Paul Starbucks Airport Mall Starbucks Dar Al Awadi I.O. Center Spoons Chocolate Bar Salhiya Complex Starbucks

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Shuweikh, Sharq, Fahaheel beau-Tique cosmetics British Embassy Brush Salon CAP Gallery Cookie Dough Dar Al Funoon Dar.Nur Gold Class Lounge - Grand Cinemas Al Hamra I. O. Center Italian Center Jacques Dessange Salon, Shaab KAICO Kuwait Airport Business Class Lounges N Style Nail Lounge Media Elephant Pink Moon Boutique Sultan Gallery THE One The Chairman's Club USA Embassy

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Puma

what's on? MOHAMMED AL KOUH-FOUR HANDS CANT CLAP Date: November 10-19, 2015 Location: Sultan Gallery Sultan Gallery is pleased to present Four Hands Can’t Clap an exhibition of hand-colored photographs by Kuwaiti artist Mohammed AlKouh. Four Hands Can’t Clap is born out of an investigation on the human desire of love. Originally, AlKouh set out to Syrian refugee camps to document the triumph of romance in a war inflicted circumstance. However, what he discovered was a series of broken love stories very similar to ones we experience outside of conflict. Greed, betrayal, and adultery led to the heartbreak of stealthy men, who survived the war in Syria but have not survived the haunt of their beloved. AlKouh works to capture the memory of happiness and hope in these men who are numbed by stories of conflict but touched by the memory of their loved one. Four Hands Can’t Clap plays on the Arabic expression “One hand can’t clap”. Despite the war torn conditions of these portraits, there seems to exist a prevalence of common heartbreak stories. The human need for love is once again defeated by family values, social expectations, and economic motivations. If love were to conquer all, then perhaps we would not have reached this place to begin with. For more information, contact The Sultan Gallery on 6097 0001 or visit them online at www.sultangallery.com. UK IN KUWAIT Date: November 9-14, 2015 Location: Al Shaheed Park, Marina Mall, The Avenues British Council has been working to foster friendly knowledge and understanding between the UK and the people of Kuwait for 60 years showcasing the best that the UK creative sector has to offer to young Kuwaitis, expats, art lovers and professionals in the country. The UK has a tradition of innovation that spans the arts, education and science, the British Council wants to connect Kuwaiti audiences with the most cutting edge and exciting art and culture emerging from the UK embodied in the performance choices made. The partnership with the National Council for Culture arts and Letters emerges from a strong mutual belief in working collaboratively and across cultures to inspire creativity through the exchange of ideas; together they hope the events will act as a vehicle to change Kuwaitis’ perceptions of the UK and increase recognition of the British Council as the UK’s foremost cultural relations organisation. For more information, contact The British Council via email on info@kw.britishcouncil.org. Check them out online at www.britishcouncil.com.kw THE PALESTINIAN CULTURE EXHIBITION Date: November 23-26, 2015 Location: Bayt Lothan (beside Marina Mall) The Palestinian Culture Center holds the second of its two annual exhibitions for 2015 at Bayt Lothan. The show includes a large collection of textile-based traditional handmade cross-stitch as well as pottery from Hebron, posters and books about Palestine in English and Arabic. It aspires to reaffirm the Palestinian national identity by its handicrafts and support education and families. This year was an active year for the Center due to the effects of the global financial crisis which placed a further strain on the poor. Furthermore, the violent and aggressive Israeli military onslaught on Gaza, Jerusalem and the rest of occupied Palestine, have made the situation in Palestine dire, and the need for aid more urgent. As a result, the Center has worked to increase the salaries of the 550 or so women who do the embroidery work as well as pay for their transportation (from the camps). They motivate the ladies by granting bonuses for excellent quality work. They also provide support to Palestinians in the homeland by providing financial aid to needy families, health care, and university scholarships. Some of the Center’s accomplishments included support of some of the vital institutes such as Almaqased hospital in Jerusalem which was established in 1968 with substantial financial support from The State of Kuwait. The Center is also working on providing the necessary financing of the Water Desalination Project in Gaza for producing potable water and assisting Gaza area hospitals that were bombarded by Israel, such as Alshefa Hospital, to produce and store oxygen for medical purposes. Palestinian embroidery using needle and silk thread is a manifestation of the Palestinian identity as it has evolved over the ages. An age old art, all Palestinian ladies, young and old, would spend hours embroidering their trousseau, dresses, shawls and cushions. Using geometric shapes at first, and then evolving to depicting images from nature surrounding them, the dresses are famous for their flowery designs and bold natural colors of indigo and red. Symbols of the ubiquitous cypress trees surrounding the orange groves, roses, jasmine and the famous olive tree are typical motifs in these dresses. The exhibition will be held at Bayt Lothan, Salmia, It will be held for 4 days starting Monday November 23rd through Thursday the 26th. It is open to the public from 10:00 am to 1:30 pm and 4:30 to 8:30 pm. For details, call 2575 5866/2575 5877 ext. 102-107/ 9937 6608.

MIRiADE

what’s trending The 2015 Nuqat Creative Conference, November 12-18 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: @nuqat info: A creative regional educational platform. editor’s note: Follow #CopyPasteSyndrome for this year’s theme.

what: @momad.ink info: A nomad illustrator. editor’s note: Story telling at its finest.

what: @prettygreenbullet info: A prolific international artist. editor’s note: We love Eve!

twitter.com/bazaartweets

pinterest.com/bazaarmagazine

what: @ndamlugi info: A writer and Arab comic book historian. editor’s note: Comics and the #CopyPasteSyndrome.

www.bazaar.town

what: @_birdonawire_ info: Women’s fashion designer. editor’s note: Stunning designs with personal twists.

instagram.com/bazaargram

what: @lolalovepabulum info: Visual artist and designer. editor’s note: Delving deeper into ‘National Nostalgia.’

what: @wajhaproject info: Nonprofit social design initiative. editor’s note: Rebranding projects for free!

what: @alhumaidhiarch info: Architect and music producer. editor’s note: Composing structural beauties.

seven friday

- Sharq

- Kuwait City

- Sharq

- Fahaheel International intoptique Optique

arabs abroad

HALA

ALYAN

By bazaar staff

ome may be where the heart is, and while Hala Alyan is fortunate to call many different cities home, the PalestinianAmerican poet who’s work has appeared in numerous journals including The Missouri Review, Prairie Schooner and Colorado Review evidently has her heart scattered all around the world and pointedly acknowledges this in her writing. In addition to a background in psychology, Hala is the author of two poetry collections, “Atrium” (Three Rooms Press), which was awarded the 2013 Arab American Book Award in Poetry, and “Four Cities,” published by Black Lawrence Press. Her latest collection, “Hijra,” was recently selected as a winner of the 2015 Crab Orchard Series in Poetry and will be published by Southern Illinois University Press. Her hauntingly beautiful, emotional poetry especially touches and revisits the everyday preciousness and perils of the region, proving the theory that you can take the soul out of the Middle East, but can never take the Middle East out of the soul.

What do you love about poetry? Poetry feels like home. There is something comforting about the construction of a poem, the pleasure of watching the images and narrative emerge. When it comes to reading poetry, I love the glimpse it grants me into another’s mind— that visceral authenticity. How does your life experiences and education influence your works? Much of what I write is directly shaped by my experiences: love, travel, family, and loss. Being a psychologist means I’m primed to pay more attention to things like interpersonal quirks, relationships, the intricacies of healing, etc. In that sense, my training and education has helped me become a more alert poet, and being a writer has made me a more mindful clinician. How do the cultures in your life, (places you’ve lived and cultural background) influence your works? Being a member of diaspora has made me more cognizant of space, the things we do to feel at home, either in our surroundings or within ourselves. I think this is why much of my writing emphasizes cities, displacement, and small encounters in time with strangers, as well as more introspective moments. I think these experiences have made me more attuned to my setting and the tiny moments that flit within it. What do you find most different about life inside and outside the Arab world and how does it affect you? I find life in the Arab world, particularly in Beirut, to feel more vibrant at times. Perhaps it is because of the chaos or intensity or political turmoil, but I’m usually more aware of being alive when I’m back there. On the other hand, I think I generally feel less stressed in the US, probably for the same reasons.

Either setting impacts my writing, making it either more urgent/frenetic/sharp or languid and unhurried. What is your family’s heritage? Syrian, Lebanese and (mostly) Palestinian. Do you still have family and friends living in the Middle East? Yes, though everyone’s quite scattered. I have people in Beirut, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Amman, and Doha. What were the circumstances under which you/your family left your home country? My parents were living in Kuwait when I was born, and we remained there until the invasion in 1990. After that, we fled to the United States for a number of years before returning to the Arab world. Where else have you lived? Cyprus, Oklahoma, Texas, Maine, Al Ain, Tripoli, Brummana, Beirut and Manhattan. How does your current habitat affect your writing? For whatever reason, I’m more productive in cold weather (perhaps because there’s less distractions). So the New York winters are actually quite useful for getting things done. A mug of green tea, my laptop and a window—that’s all I need! Where will you eventually retire? I wish I knew! Ideally somewhere in the Arab world, near the sea. Finish this sentence: When I die, I will… … have loved. Follow Hala and discover her works at www.halaalyan.com

The athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot

A TIMELESS

HAVEN

Catching up with dar.nur’s Noor Alzabin by bazaar staff

If you’re seeking inspiration and find yourself still lost for that one brilliant [enter notion of choice here], a change of scenery is in order. I find myself sometimes thinking of a specific setting, a sentence, or even a piece of furniture because my imagination is visually triggered. That’s why I constantly revisit dar.nur. Come by during the mornings, and you’ll find the beautiful Noor Alzabin preening the eclectic lifestyle store to perfection. She will regale you with tales about the charmingly curated store, taking the time and care to explain how each item was either found, or in certain cases, created. As the entire bazaar office rushed to finalize the monthly content before our print deadline I needed a mental break, so I simply dropped by the boutique for some serenity and some serious windowshopping. Okay, that’s a lie. I shopped my heart out, and then went back to the office! H i N o o r, we ’v e m i s s e d y ou! H ow i s l i f e at d a r.n u r? It’s as colorful as always! W h a t a r e s o m e o f t h e s t o r e ’s l a t e s t developments? Since our last chat we have expanded our stationary and paper goods collection to include over six different designer/suppliers from all over the world! We have also dabbled in working on exclusive designs for dar.nur as we continue our love affair with paper! Our paper goods in stock include cards, gift-wrap paper and bags, banners, notebooks, photo props, note pads etc. We also continue to represent Kuwaiti artist Ghadah Alkandari exclusively in Kuwait. Her

work is now available for purchase all year long as opposed to availability being limited to short-lived art exhibitions. All her available art for sale is physically in dar.nur! In addition, we found some fantastic fabric this summer from Egypt that we used to create a dar.nur collection of wonderful cushions, benches and some chairs and a sofa. The fabrics are bright, positive, and truly original. We pride ourselves in offering items such as these that are unique to our space. What makes dar.nur different from other boutique lifestyle concepts in Kuwait? We repeatedly mention that we don’t follow

exclusivities or trends and that gives us the creative freedom to shape this business as we see fit! We are not obligated by any “business” commitments, which can dampen the creative spirit in many cases. In addition, we believe that our attention to absolutely every aspect of the business from the buying of products to the personal relationship we have with our clients makes it a little more personal and distinctive. And, as mentioned earlier, we do try to offer truly unique products from time to time by exclusively designing and commissioning products for dar.nur.

What are some select items for the fall season? One of the most essential touches to transitioning through any seasons is home scent! A delicate suggestion in the background of your environment, whether it is for home or work place, can lift your spirits and provoke nostalgic reflection. For this season we will be highlighting deeper scents with wooden and musky notes. Drift wood, Teak and Moroccan fig are our top picks! We also absolutely love the Mubkhars (scent burners) designed by zeri crafts and available at dar.nur! Naturally we will be leaning towards

that delicious purple shade for this season. We personally get very inspired by a drizzle and a few clouds, we therefore, like to stockup on notebooks to keep in the car, handbag, home and work just to make sure we jot down any random bursts of inspiration and memory. We have a lovely selection in store! Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite item that is currently in store? We love the quirky cool collection of animal trays by creative French team I-Bride! We have been stocking their work for a few years now and the humor and creativity never fails! They are both practical as they can be used as

trays or easily hung on the wall and they are achingly pretty! Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next for dar.nur in 2016? We hope our clients appreciate what they find here and we hope to continue providing items that are fresh and unique to the market in Kuwait. We will continue to do what we do best and hope something falls our way and we will definitely go with it! Anything is possible! dar.nur is located at the Lilly Center in Shuwaikh. Reach them by phone at 2491 5758. Find them online at www.dar-nur.com and follow them on Instagram @dar_nur. 29

STAY THY BLADE By Mohammed El Soukarry

Raising awareness, actively taking the time to learn the issues and their associated intricacies is important. Understanding the minutiae related to the matters of prostate cancer and men’s health, and internalizing them enough in order to be able to effectively engage your potential public (aka your friends and family) involves a lot of effort and time that could alternatively be spent doing other productive activities (aka relaxing on the couch).

Your conscience however would not let you stand idly by while there was something you knew you could do to make a difference in someone’s life, a difference that could affect someone’s health. You would find yourself hounded by questions; “why didn’t I get up?” they would posit. “Why didn’t I speak up?” they would persist. “Why was I not more involved and active?” Your frankly quite annoying conscience would continue. The truth is not far away, because as we all know from high school physics, an object at rest wants to remain at rest. The resting object in this case being our good selves. So we find ourselves before a dichotomy; we can take the initiative and exert ourselves

and do the legwork to raise awareness of the important issues, or alternatively we could lounge about and relax, while our mind s relentlessly hound us for not making the extra effort. It is a difficult choice. Luckily however, there is a way to get the best of both worlds. Stay thy blade. This month, all you have to do is nothing. When you wake up in the morning, don’t lather your face with shaving cream. Don’t pick up your favorite brand of blades, that may or may not be arranged in bunches of three or more, potentially inflicting severe wounds that may or may not be invisible until you splash some aftershave on them. Signal to the world this month that you are aware of the issues and what they mean for the health and wellness of men around the world. Stand tall during the first week as they ask you “what is that you have above your lip?” while they smirk knowingly. Be firm during the second week as your alleged mustache begins to take shape, when you can proudly state that you are now a fully fledged participant in Movember. This will ideally spark an intelligent conversation on what can be done on the individual and micro levels to contribute to the global efforts geared towards addressing these issues; it will serve to keep Movember at the forefront of people’s minds.

During the third week, you will have read enough on the internet through random memes and assor ted inspirational posters as you scroll down your various social media feeds, that you should be ready to address any questions that are sent your way. By this time in the month you will know enough that you will probably be tr ying to [not so subtly] push the conversation towards the topic of your now much more respectable mustache. Instead of making it about your mustache though, go ahead and use the attention showered upon your ‘stache and redirect it to more pressing issues, like Movember intended. By the four th week, your attachment to your new hair y companion will be strengthened but it will begin demanding maintenance. If unkempt, it will stick out at odd angles and make its presence felt. You will however look around you and realize that you no longer stand alone spor ting a mustache, but that you are among many Movemberists. It is one of the advantages of our time that we can so simply and so easily become par t of a large wave of humanity through as simple a gesture as growing a mustache, and through that simple gesture reminds others of an impor tant cause, all the while looking awesome while doing it.

Jeep

FLOAT LIKE A

BUTTERFLY, STING LIKE

A BEE

Mohamed Ali The Egyptian champion

By bazaar staff

“It’s never too late to start training,” Mohamed Ali says laughingly, “I started at seventeen and competing at eighteen!” There was something so innocent about him - until the gloves came on - then all bets were off. A lean, mean, killing machine - Mohamed Ali is as fierce as they come. At the young age of twenty, this Cairo University Faculty of Law student has been making waves in the region. It all started when he went with a friend of his to watch him practice - and the rest is history. “I started boxing and competing when I was seventeen under the keen mentorship of Coach Tarek Burjas,” he explained, “but I was soon banned from competing in Kuwait since I’m not Kuwaiti.” As opposed to quitting, Mohamed changed his focus to kickboxing and excelled. 32

“It was a way I could continue to train and stay fit,” Mohamed said, “but then the competitions started and I joined - even though I had to start expanding my practice to MMA.” While his age hadn’t permitted him to compete initially, he was never discouraged and kept practicing. The professionally undefeated champion - he only lost once in an amateur fight - is beyond humble. “I’m currently studying to become a lawyer,” he blushes, “but I live and train in Kuwait, so I only fly back to Cairo for my exams.” His dedication is absolutely inspiring, and his love for the sport shines through. Humbled by his beginnings, Mohamed never competed for the fame and fortune – he did it for himself. While a professional career in the fighting arts might open doors, his concern is solely for his form. “Don’t do it for the fame or the money,” he stressed, “Do it for you.” An excellent way to stay in shape, boxing and kickboxing were always a way for him to stay in excellent form. Yet with all his hard work, it was difficult not to become recognized. “There was a time were I got hit because I lost focus in a match,” he laughed, “that’s why focus is key.”

As he sat there in his jeans and tee, it was evident that he was itching to get into his fight-gear to show us his moves. But before we let him jump into the ring, we just had to know more about the fight scene and what made him lose that one time. As the undefeated champion in the professional fight world, his first amateur fight on the MBC Action show “Desert Force” didn’t go well. “In the amateur fight scene, the rules are stricter.” Not realizing the amount and difficulty of the rules put him in a vulnerable position against his opponent. Still, through all his other fights, Mohamed has held onto his undefeated champion status. There was one question irking us before he changed into his gear to start practice – and for us to snap a few awesome photos – which country he represents while competing. “Egypt of course!” he says without hesitation. “I never get into a cage, rink, or anything without carrying my flag over my shoulders.” Spoken like a true patriot. Keep your eyes open for this incredible fighter, with his entire future ahead of him, we wish him nothing but the best in his next match! Follow Mohamed Ali’s journey as he continues to be the undefeated champion in the region by checking out his Instagram @zikomixicoo.

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‫ﻫﺪﻳﺔ ﻧﻘﺪﻳﺔ ﻓﻮرﻳﺔ ﻣﻦ ‪ 200‬إﻟﻰ ‪ 500‬د‪.‬ك ﺑﺎ ﺿﺎﻓﺔ إﻟﻰ‬ ‫ﻓﺮﺻﺔ ﻟﺪﺧﻮل اﻟﺴﺤﺐ رﺑﻊ اﻟﺴﻨﻮي ﻋﻠﻰ ﺳﻴﺎرة ‪.BMW X5‬‬

‫ﺗﻄﺒﻖ اﻟﺸﺮوط اﻻﺋﺘﻤﺎﻧﻴﺔ وا ﺣﻜﺎم‬

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‫ت ‪ -‬ج‪2015/388/‬‬

‫ﺣﻮل راﺗﺒﻚ ﻟﻠﺘﺠﺎري وارﺑﺢ ﻓﻮر ًا‬

‫ت ‪ -‬ﻫـ‪2015/3407/‬‬

‫ﻫﺪﻳﺘﻚ ول راﺗﺐ‬ ‫وأﻛﺜﺮ ﻣﻦ اﻟﺘﺠﺎري!‬

SOLE DXB: Featuring Hassan Hajjaj

and Amine Bendriouich Following the artistic voices of our generation

to Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier footwear, fashion

and lifestyle fair By bazaar staff

he striking cover of our November issue visually pays homage to the infamous month of Movember, but while we at bazaar recognize the importance of the month (and vehemently agree that the aforementioned cover displays what we think is the perfect ‘mo), we would like to highlight the genius behind this work of modern art. By selecting this cover, we aren’t just promoting mustaches to save lives, we’re also re-introducing the nation to one of our favorite artists in the region, Hassan Hajjaj, who’s featuring his collaborated work with fellow Moroccan comrade and designer Amine Bendriouich at the Sole DXB fair in Dubai, taking place from the 20th-21st of the month. Sole DXB, taking place in the Dubai Design District, defines itself as the regional platform for footwear, fashion, culture, art and design. They have collaborated with the internationally acclaimed Hajjaj to embody the ethos of art, music, fashion and urban culture after taking to London to work with him on a shoot that entwined the spirit of music, fashion and the visual arts. When Hassan selected Bendriouich as the face of his campaign, he also made it a point to celebrate the young designer who is based between Casablanca and Berlin. This isn’t the first time the two have collaborated, and as both have become associated with the aesthetics of street style, androgyny and experimental urban culture; their marriage in the arts has proven to misalign themselves from any definition of mainstream trends. So what’s so important about the dynamic duo, and how can their collective art inspire the inhabitants of the region, whether they be creatives, philosophers, thinkers, or average Jassems and Jumanas? This collaboration reaps symbolism of hegemony and honest modern day ideals that are so wonderfully flamboyant; any critical thinker wouldn’t be able to resist delving into analytical dissections. The aesthetic is also kitschy and fun, boasting a celebration of tradition mixed with modern multicultural influences we have all come across or picked up on at some point. Hassan has once again found our voices, and through is art, he is willing to speak on our behalf. What message are you trying to portray by choosing Bendriouich as your subject? I would like for this image to portray the past, present and future. I also want to display our culture’s general coolness mixed with savvy style and tradition that the region is not always perceived for. I think that it’s vital to show this while introducing amazing international talent

[continued...]

such as Mr. Bendriouich to the world. Upon first encountering your work, many people would compare you to a Middle Eastern Warhol. Was he one of your influences? Andy Warhol wasn’t intended to be my influence - I’m my own influence. However, I hear this all the time from the press and public and take it as a compliment! Do you feel that your work would be successful in portraying a different message to audiences in the West rather than the East? I always hope that my work can be read in a positive way to Western audiences, and I also want to pave the way for other Arab artists to express themselves. If they have something to say, they should be heard. Noticing that you’ve collaborated with Amine Bendriouich in the past, how do you feel that his work mirrors yours, and what does your compatibility create? Amine and I share similar interests in terms of art, music, film and culture. Somehow, we always find ourselves collaborating - it happens naturally! We definitely mirror one another in so many ways. I consider him my “brother from another mother”. Would you say that you and Amine Bendriouich are the voices of Morocco meets Western art? If we could grant ourselves this title, that would be amazing. It is definitely an objective of our work. However, I’m also doing the work I believe in for my own self. That being said, we are aware that we’re the artistic voices of Morocco and wear this badge with pride. How was it collaborating with Amine for the Sole DXB campaign? It was amazing! It truly felt like a family affair. Do you feel that your collaboration with Sole DXB will encourage lesser - known artists to emerge within the Middle East and put themselves out there the way you have? I really hope is so. It’s vital! Creatives throughout the region should be encouraged to express themselves. What’s next for Hassan Hajjaj? I’m currently working on my two solo shows for next year: the first will be taking place at The Third Line in Dubai, (March 2016) and the second will be a solo show with Taymour Grahne in New York (May 2016). Check out Hassan and Amine’s collaboration at the Sole DXB fair in the Dubai Design District from November 20-21st, 2015. F o r m o r e i n fo r m a t i o n o n S o l e D X B , v i s i t www.soledxb.com, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @soledxb. For more information on Hassan’s Larache Gallery in London, follow him on Instagram @hassanhajjaj_larache. Follow Amine on Instagram @aminebendriouch and look up his works on Facebook: ABCBoriginal.

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American eagle

truth or dare

Muneera AlKhulaifi A photographer’s story By bazaar staff

“When asked about her first interest in photography, local Kuwaiti photographer Muneera AlKhulaifi would respond with a whimsical “since forever!” Actually, she had to resort to her mother to fully remember, and she was told that she used to sneakily ‘borrow’ her mother’s camera whenever she had the chance to do so. She adds, “I knew then that the spark has been lit inside me. My mother has been a great support to me as she bought me my first camera when I turned 16 and that’s when the magic happened. I felt a great desire to explore my possibilities as a photographer and wanted to improve my skills to be the photographer I always dreamed of becoming.” Muneera’s passion for photography most definitely runs in the family, as her mother is an avid documenter of the family’s trips and main events. Her father always dabbled in drawing, and lucky for Muneera, she inherited her parent’s artistic genes. Muneera is always on the lookout for tips and tricks to improve her skills, and she never stops until she captures the image that she has in mind. Lucky for us here at bazaar, Muneera has joined our network of incredible photographers to bring our written stories to life through her lens, so watch out for her work in our pages! During her days as a student at the American University in Kuwait, Muneera used to walk around the campus, taking random pictures of students here and there, and then posting them to an Instagram account that she created just for this purpose. She also started the photography club at the University, and then approached by Amer Al Asaad from the university office to officially cover all of the university’s events and activities. As AUK’s official photographer, Muneera came into her own, and considers this as one of the best learning experiences to date, going on to compete and win several prizes for her work. According to Muneera, being a photographer means creating memories. She says, “That requires a lot of attention to my surroundings. Every picture I take has a story to be told.” 38

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Foto cred to Lars Schneider

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truth or dare She’s always preferred natural photography, and she never quite related to staged photography, although she believes that it could be really artistic. Muneera is also ever so fascinated with taking pictures of little creatures. She adds, “It’s for the love of details and colorfulness. They basically represent a challenge to me, as they are fast and constantly on the move, and they’re so little that people don’t usually notice them. I like to follow them around to show them how fast I am!” Besides being in a constant state of trigger happiness, Muneera also enjoys reading, writing, beach walking, hiking, biking and traveling. She wishes to further her education, and study to teach others about her what she loves the most. How would your mother describe you in one word? The Wanderer. Bonus answer: The helper. How would you describe your mother in one word? Superwoman. What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked? When are you going to quit coffee? (As if I was addicted!) What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done? Last summer, I took my phone to the Apple store in LA, in a couple of hours I went back to pick it up, to my surprise they told me that they burned my phone! I started crying like a baby In the middle of the crowd. What is your theme song? Keisza, “Hideaway”. What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? Success. Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location? A hidden place in Utah! (If I say it out laud, my secret would be out!) What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind? The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step –Lao Tzu. What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in? A Dog (Specifically, a Siberian Husky just like the one I own). What do you miss about your childhood? Simplicity. If you could change your name, what would you change it to? I love my name because it means bright and shiny. How would you describe your handshake in one word? Coy. What is the toughest part of your character? Handling unexpected situations in ways I couldn’t imagine myself handling. Who is your favorite historical figure? The Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him). What in the world do you least desire? Gossiping. What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place? Peaceful smiles and innocence. Why do you think most girls/guys like you? I actually asked my friends and they answered saying that When they need me they usually find me and that I always focus on the good side of them. Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…” A cup of coffee in the early morning. Follow Muneera’s work on Instagram @i9ora, and email her at memorana@live.com for enquiries.

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Milano

up close and personal

THE BELLE

OF THE

BAIA

Getting up close and personal with

Alexandra Hunter

By bazaar staff

o you or your children have a passion for dance? Consider looking into The BAIA’s (British Academy of International Arts) extensive dance program where you may be lucky enough to be taught by dedicated instructors like Alexandra Hunter, the head of the dance department at the academy. With a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) in teaching contemporary dance, the English expat teaches a variety of dance classes for a variety of ages that start out as young as three years old to adulthood with all abilities in between. The dance classes taught by Alexandra are not limited to Ballet, but include Tap, Modern, Jazz and Contemporary and Modern Musical Theater. In addition to teaching dance in traditional stage settings, she teaches A Level Dance in a classroom environment, ensuring that her students’ experience goes beyond the physical.

Alexandra has become a vital addition to the BAIA team by contributing to the growth of the academy with impeccably produced, crowd-pleasing performances. “We’ve put on many shows that are reaching wider audiences, this year we are planning to put on a full scale dance production of Beauty and the Beast at a very prestigious venue.” In addition to productions, she works hard to ensure her students are exposed to a diverse culture in the world of theater by planning trips for her senior students to theatrical meccas such as London. “I have created a jam packed itinerary with West End shows, back stage tours, workshops with the professional casts, dance classes at the famous Pineapple Dance studios and much more which has proved to be so popular that we already have a waiting list.” Though at times the creative process in Kuwait may be slightly challenging, Alexandra embraces and respects the humble culture while tackling obstacles with consideration for what’s best for her students: “In every country, there are challenges when it comes to teaching the arts and in this respect Kuwait is no different. At the same time students from conservative families can do dance exams with an external examiner in the BAIA studio and enjoy the discipline and rigor of dance even if there is no audience present.”

But despite any conservative customs that may clash with practicing the art of dance in Kuwait, Alexandra celebrates the opportunities this culture has to offer to her program and students: “Kuwait is such a culturally diverse platform I have a variety of students from many different backgrounds, and I find that dance is the one universal language that everyone can express and understand. Dance can be performed on stage in front of an audience and with little or no dance shows in Kuwait its great to be bringing this pleasure to so many.” She also wants the department to keep growing, and hopes that more students will enjoy dance as a career and take up scholarships and opportunities to study further at a higher level. “I wish to open the eyes of my students and show them how wonderful the world of dance is by creating fantastic performance opportunities and educational trips like London. I am fortunate that the RAD exam syllabus is world-renowned with credits on offer to students. This makes it very appealing on an academic level to all nationalities.” up close and personal questionnaire: What do you most value in your friends? Honesty and support. Here in Kuwait your friends quickly become more like family, and it is so important to surround yourself with a positive network of people. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Retiring, knowing I’ve achieved everything I ever set out to do. What is your greatest fear? Clowns! What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? I am such a perfectionist. I always want everything done as best as it can, but sometimes there aren’t enough hours in the day. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Narrow-mindedness. Everyone is the same and we all deserve a chance. Which living person do you most admire? Jessie J. I love how passionate she is about her career and how she has strived from the bottom to the top and never given up. Boy, can she sing! What is your greatest extravagance? My terrible addiction to shopping in the Avenues. What is it that you most dislike? Anything with ketchup. Which talent would you most like to have? If teleportation were a talent, I would love to be able to teleport to any place in the world at any time. I would be sure to see the world without missing anything! If you could have any job, what would it be? The one I am doing now. Is this a trick question? What would you consider your greatest achievement? Dancing on the West End stage in London. What is your most treasured possession? My Skype account, it keeps me connected to my friends and family all over the world. What is your most marked characteristic? My laugh! It is loud and infectious. Where would you most like to live? Disneyland, I have grown up loving the princesses and I want to live in the castle with them. What are your favorite words to live by? PMA: Positive Mental Attitude. Interested in the BAIA? Further your research by visiting them online at www.baia.edu.kw, or follow them on Facebook : The BAIA.

REMEMBER REMEMBER

THE REASON for

MOVEMBER By Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg

I cannot lie. I like moustaches … and beards. One would think then, that I would looooooove Movember. Not. I love the idea – raising awareness of men’s health issues and the need to be proactive about these things. Let’s face it. If you know an adult man well, you also know that men are (generally) notoriously bad at this deal. They just don’t go to the doctor unless a) they’re harassed into going or b) they are so sick it’s obvious that death is likely imminent (and even then they complain!). So I’m exaggerating …a little. Research does show that a high percentage of men are reluctant to address health related matters. Male-related cancers are often diagnosed in later stages because of the delay in seeking treatment and the consequence is a higher death rate once diagnosed. Gentlemen, this is a sucky state of affairs. Back to the moustache thing. I don’t love Movember because the moustaches that appear are, quite frankly, ridiculous. Monstrous huge things, stuck on the upper lip and obscuring half the face, waxed, 44

pomaded, and sculpted into the facial version of dreadlocks or a beehive. No. No. No. A well trimmed, groomed, and carefully tended face garden is swoon-worthy. At this point, I confess to thoroughly appreciating the many, many ways that beards (can one call a slick of hair following the jaw line a “beard?”) and moustaches are coiffed in Kuwait. I marvelled at the preciseness of the grooming and often wondered how long its wearer had to spend at the barber’s to look like that. Certainly longer than my own Craftsman, who has sported a beard in some variation since we married, 33 years ago. The very few periods when he was clean-shaven have been mostly erased from my memory as a bad dream. (While working on the oil rigs in the late 80s, he had to be clean-shaven because of the face masks worn during emergencies. When he appeared sans beard, he freaked out both of his small daughters who had never seen him without. It took them awhile to warm up to him again. The minute that job was finished, he went back to his usual look. Thankfully.) So obviously, I can’t grow a moustache worthy of this month’s hirsute focus. I can, however, support the cause. And I most definitely do.

GENTLEMEN! Go and have a general physical, complete with blood work and a prostate exam. For many of you, it will all be groovy (except for when the doctor tells you to eat less, stop smoking, and exercise more. Do that). Those test results can provide a benchmark that will build a comparative picture of your health, enabling any anomaly to be caught sooner. This is a good thing. For the minority of you for whom more tests will be ordered or to whom free lemons will be delivered, know that treatment is usually successful, and catching the problem sooner is way, way better than later. My friend Bob is still doing what he does because of this movement. He went to the doctor in response to the awareness campaign and as a consequence, received a diagnosis, treatment, and eventually, a new lease on life because the cancer was caught early. He’s a great believer in Movember. Me, too. Go on. Grow that moustache, make that appointment, and spread the word. Be proactive, for your sake and for the ones who love you. Follow @DrSusannah on Twitter and Instagram.

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MALIMO LUXURIES

Maali Al Oudah debuts luxury fur collection at Harvey Nichols Kuwait By bazaar staff

Trends may come and go, but fur remains a timeless indulgence. Growing up in Kuwait, Maali Al Oudah shares a special relationship with this luxurious world. Her father regularly traveled to Moscow, and she considered her first fur coat to be her favorite present. Today, the prominent fur designer and businesswoman looks to timeless luxury as her main inspiration for her line of specialty furs that are exclusively sold at Harvey Nichols Kuwait. Maali is inspired by the 1930s, as she feels this decade epitomizes femininity, elegance, and sophistication. Her passion for designing furs led her to create her first luxury line, and with her strong network of industry leaders, she turned her passion into a reality. While there are many who happen to be both opponents and proponents of this segment of the luxury industry, Maali successfully stands out on her own with her eye for elegant design, clever business ideology and approachable persona. bazaar meets with the designer to discuss her latest collection. When did you first become interested in furs? Fur is a childhood passion. I’ve always wanted to do my own designs and every time I shop for furs, I end up finding designs similar to my grandmother’s coats! I think that fur is supposed to be fun, stylish and worn on every cold day, not only for weddings and special occasions. My 46

father visited Moscow many times and got me a white mink coat with gray dots, and since then, I’ve been in love with fur. The way it makes me feel is unbelievable! Can you tell us about your experience in this field? I consider myself a lucky person since I have the chance to travel a lot, and I take advantage of that by doing my homework and my research while on the road. Being in the fur industry is not easy finding the best providers and factories who can take on a small quantity at a time is extremely challenging. What is so special about the types of fur that you source? I know that I have the best furs since they are excellent quality and come in rare colors. More importantly, all of my providers are certified, which means that the follow international laws with of fur manufacturing. Can you tell us more about your most signature and most important piece? I always try to mix and match, but this year I’m very proud that I have one of the most expensive, most rare pieces: white chinchilla. I’ve been told that every year there only 10 pieces that can be sourced, and I own one of them! I cannot wait to meet the lucky lady who will own this piece! Do you have a favorite piece from the Mali Mo Luxurious collection? If so, which one is it and why?

Each piece is special and has a different story, but personally, I always prefer Lynx - it’s so soft! Many people think that wearing Fur in Kuwait is pointless given the weather. What do you think of that statement, and how might you comment on this topic? Kuwait’s winter produces dry cold weather, which makes it even more suitable for fur because you don’t have to worry about rain. Though it’s short, it definitely gets chilly. Besides, we’re known to travel a lot in this region. You started off working with developing Fur brand Malimo, why did you choose to enter into the world of jewelry? What are some of your other business interests? Jewelry completes fur. Both are luxurious and I appreciate a life of luxury and everything that makes women feel more elegant and feminine. Where do you see your company going? What are some of your future plans? I see my brand in every sophisticated boutique and closet. Europe and Russia present as new target audiences, and I’m excited to see Malimo break into those markets!

You can find Malimo Luxuries at Harvey Nichols Kuwait and Harvey Nichols Riyadh. For more information, visit mali-mo.com and follow her journey on Instagram @Malimo_.

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WALKING IN KUWAIT By Maryann Horne

It’s that time of the year again. Setting foot out of home or the car finally doesn’t feel like walking out onto The Sun’s surface. It’s cool, crisp, even in the early morning, and Kuwait is outdoor friendly again. Let’s face it. Not many of us venture out on foot, but there’s no better time to start discovering Kuwait from another angle. Ditch the traffic and drive-by scenes and get those laces tied to fill your lungs and heart with new places that can only be discovered by foot. It doesn’t matter if you’re walking, jogging or cart-wheeling, these car free spaces allow you to escape for a few hours. For those who fancy a bit of a change, here are just some of the favorite pathways within city reach. SCIENTIFIC CENTER COASTAL WANDER An all-time favorite. Ditch the wheels in the car park at the Scientific Center and set off for a 5 km loop to the Marina Mall and back. You’ll be walking with a breeze in your face and staring at the Kuwaiti skyline over the turquoise blue waters of the Gulf. There are several parks on

the way and although some equipment is broken, there is enough to entertain children. The walk that starts off by the last Dhow to sail around Africa is atmospheric as you’ll cross walkers in Dishdashas and Lycra alike. Sunset is an ideal time to stroll, as the ambiance offers amazing photographic opportunities of the city’s skyline. With such a long stroll, it is worth noting that bathrooms are available. HORSE RACING TRACK This walk feels like escaping Kuwait. Situated off the 6th ring road next to the Sahara Golf Club, this walk takes you around the track. It’s a round loop that has a hard surface to jog and walk on and can be accessed at any time of the day. There is nothing for children, however, but a nice coffee shop terrace at the end. If you’ve worked up an appetite you will also want to check out the new Marouj dining village with its dozens of restaurants next door. No pets allowed. MESSILAH PARK This walk is short but deliciously atmospheric. Start at the Messilah car park from the Jumeirah hotel in Salwa. As you walk, watch fishermen angling into the Gulf and families gathering for picnics on the grassy squares around the play

parks. The strip is as authentic as they come. Midway, there is even a Mosque and one of be oldest Diwaniyas of the the neighborhood still in its original format. SAILORS VILLAGE WALK The best place to walk to catch the sunset, theis walk along the sailors village faces East. There are a few grassy patches where women and children picnic as men in their dishdashas walk along. Park just behind the Sailors Village, facing the new Parliament building. A dander through the sailors center is also worthwhile for the cultural experience. It was built as an entertainment park for the families of sailors. Friday’s are atmospheric with live traditional music. The arts and crafts shops are also open on Fridays and public holidays. Ideal for children. MISHREF TRAIL This trail is known as one of the nicest local “walking tracks” that are built in every area. The 5 km trail can be accessed anywhere in Mishref ,and is built in a loop that joins block 1 and 2. You’ll love the fact that your walk under trees and the arches above it are often decorated with bright lights which makes for a bit of color after sunset. There are also several parks along it - the largest two being between the 6th and Mishref block 1.

Mais ALghanim

MANAR I MOURSI On the politics of chairs, the Copy/Paste syndrome

and tackling the 2015 Nuqat Creative Conference By bazaar staff

“believe that the copy/ paste syndrome is an essential part of contemporary aesthetics and creative processes,” she began, “I would actually go further following the 19th century sociologist Gabriel Tarde who considered all kind of creations as small variations or improvisations on established and repeated patterns. Tarde wrote that: ‘Invention is always, by its very nature, an intersection of imitation rays, an original combination of imitations’. In that sense the Copy/Paste is not a recent syndrome. It’s a constant condition.” Wise words from the incredible creator and guest speaker/ lecturer at the 2015 Nuqat Creative Conference, Manar Moursi - founder of Studio Meem and co-author to Sidewalk Salon. We got the opportunity to sit down and chat with Manar to find out all about the politicizing of chairs, her baby - Studio Meem - and what she’ll be touching on in the conference.

Studio Meem Off The Gireed Collection

David Puig + Studio Meem - Sidewalk Salon Cairo

In your opinion, what makes a creative? I’m going to borrow an expression from Nicolas Bourriaud’s Postproduction book – a contemporary creative is a DJ of sorts – mixing different tracks, inspirations and influences. The ingenuity comes in making the combination that fits its context well. How do politics relate to architecture and what politicizes a chair? Generally, chairs raise questions such as: who can occupy the public space of the city? The answers to this question are inherently political since they depend on the reaction of the authorities. In a context marked by a proliferation of informal economical activities and a lack of formal public spaces, the occupation of the sidewalks with chairs can be seen as a kind of guerrilla strategy by informal vendors, small entrepreneurs or residents of their areas. This can be either tolerated or curbed by the authorities. It’s like a game of cat and mouse. For example, earlier this year, authorities closed down many of the cafés of the downtown district of Borsa as part of an overall plan to upgrade and gentrify the downtown area of Cairo, a move that reflects the current government’s discourse to control public spaces, at least in the city center. What is Studio Meem’s main focus and how do you see it evolving? Studio Meem is my laboratory to experiment and research projects on the city – from product design to architecture to projects in public space to writing on and photographing the city. Since its founding I’ve really been lucky to work on different scales of intervention in the city. I see Studio Meem as constantly evolving with the pace of changes I see around me and the possibilities of making new work or not – as I find myself working in phases – cycles where the work is more research based projects vs. projects that are published, built and constructed. Sidewalk Salon is such an interesting study of seating in a city heavily invested in chairs - what drew you to the subject? My partner in the project David Puig and I started documenting street chairs of Cairo around 4 years ago. We felt that the chairs were the perfect zoom and wide-angle lens with which to view the city. They unraveled sociological and urban aspects of the city that we felt could be interesting to share. We were attracted by their widespread abundance on the one hand, and by their singularity on the other hand. Then there is their character and their design. The streets chairs of Cairo bear the particular charm of imperfection. Their appeal lies in the way in which the passage of time and the interventions of their owners to reverse it —fixing and decorating them with the resources at hand—have made each of them unique. They are old and worn out, yet startlingly fresh and appealing. With its ability to digest the objects that land on its streets and make them unique in the process, Cairo can be seen as one huge, customizing factory that transforms mass-produced chairs into individual characters. Chairs are more than pieces of wood, plastic or metal assembled to defy gravity: they carry memories, scars and personal signatures on their bodies. They project the

Studio Meem - Ahwa SadaTables

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Mahatat + Studio Meem Wonderbox

attention they have been granted, becoming indirect portraits of their owners. And finally, we understood we could talk about Cairo though those chairs. We could not only tell the stories of the people who sit on them, but also talk about some of the urban and social dynamics of one of the biggest cities of the world. The philosopher Gaston Bachelard wrote in one of his books: “The minuscule, a narrow gate, opens up an entire world.” In our case, chairs were that modest, overlooked element of reality that allowed us to talk about broader issues and problems. Equipped with Polaroid cameras and sound recorders, we assumed the role of “sidewalk botanists” and experienced what the Japanese artist Akasegawa Genpei described as “the fun of looking at reality instead of doing it all in your head”. Through your line of work and expertise, does said syndrome affect your creative process? I think the Studio’s product line Off the Gireed really highlights the copy-paste syndrome with the processes involved in its production. As I mentioned earlier, it was a product line that was inspired by the use of these very ubiquitous crates on the streets of Cairo. One can say, in my DJ mixtape, I took from the street vendors and their innovative use of the crate and just added a layer I saw in other products that were using recycled elements in their design. To add another layer to all this, was the innovation of the craftsmen I worked with. I am a big believer of the Japanese values of “egoless craftsmanship” which believe that the beauty of crafts come from the repetition of the work, from the production and the obstacles you meet when you are producing. This was definitely very true in the processes of making Off the Gireed. What would you be touching on in the conference and what should people expect? David and I will explore the copy-paste theme in relation to the urban

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spaces of the city of Cairo and to our book Sidewalk Salon: 1001 Street Chairs of Cairo. The works of two intellectuals, one from the 19th century, Gabriel Tarde, and one contemporary, Nicolas Bourriaud, will provide us with the language and images of this endeavor. With the very original dialectic of Imitation / Innovation developed by Gabriel Tarde (1843-1904) we will try to explain what constitute a recognizable urban landscape, constant in its defining lines, shapes, objects and colors, but at the same time perpetually in motion thanks to the molecular interventions that citizens create on a daily basis. At the street level what differentiates one city from another? Why are some elements and patterns repeated ad infinitum in an urban space? How do those patterns and interventions come to be? How are new patterns and actions introduced and spread through the city like Chinese whispers? To answers these questions and illustrate these ideas we will provide examples from the research we conducted to produce Sidewalk Salon. With the works of Nicolas Bourriaud we will go into a more self-reflective direction. We will try to explain how an art project and in our particular case Sidewalk Salon, produced “singularity and meaning” from a “chaotic mass of objects…that constitute our daily life”. While copypasting chairs from the streets of Cairo into the pages of a book, how do we create a broader reflection on the capital of Egypt which aims to trigger questions valid for anyone interested in the urban condition today? How do we reorganize, edit, and mix up the materials collected from everyday life to generate emotions, ideas and meaning?

For more information on Studio Meem and Sidewalk Salon, check them out at www.studiomeem.me, www.1001streetchairscairo.com, a n d w w w. s i d e wa l k s a l o n c a i r o . c o m . F o l l o w t h e m o n Tw i t t e r @studio_meem and @1001chairscairo and on Facebook: StudioMeemCairo and 1001StreetChairsCairo.

bossini

OUR BRAINS TRUST BRANDS THE SAME WAY WE TRUST OUR FRIENDS By Charlie Sorrel

We perceive brands the same way we perceive other people’s faces. That’s the conclusion of a study by Anne Lange and Rainer Höger, which tested eighteen well-known brand logos to see how trustworthy we find the companies behind them. The results were compared with a previous study doing the same thing for human faces, and the conclusion was startling. The study, from the Institute for Experimental Business Psychology at Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany, asked subjects to rate brands (including Coca Cola, Apple, Rolex, Porsche, BP, Marlboro, and Nivea) based on their “intentions to ordinary people,” their ability to implement their intentions, and whether or not the brand “consistently acts with the public’s best interest in mind,” amongst other criteria. They were also asked whether the brands were trustworthy, caring, or

dominant. The results were then compared with a previous study that did the same for faces. The conclusion? “The mechanisms of brand perception and face perception seem to be similar,” say the researchers. “The results of this study enhance the findings of previous research that in many ways brands are perceived similarly as humans.” Faces, it says, are evaluated in two dimensions, like a picture. The researchers postulate that our perception of brands might mimic that of faces because—in our minds— the logos of the act much like faces, i.e., twodimensional shapes in which we infer personality and intent, similar to how we see faces in all sorts of inanimate objects. The research was actually carried out to investigate how effective celebrity endorsement might be to a brand, literally putting a face on a company. These results might allow brands to

match up their perceived image with a similarlyrated celebrity, or even edge the brands in a new direction through association. “Our results lay the foundation for investigations on how unknown brand faces have an influence on brand personality perception in advertising,” say Lange and Höger. The study cites figures from Germany that claim “about 67percent of a company’s value was constituted by the brand” back in 2005, whereas “mere products and services are perceived as indifferent.” The importance of branding can be seen everywhere, and now we know why. It seems that the same mechanisms we rely upon to rate the trustworthiness and intentions of the people we meet are also triggered by branding. If true, then we are hardwired to shop by brand, even while we try to remain neutral or apply rational thought to our purchases, and that’s a rather scary thought.

Safat

OUR FAVORITE MO’S By bazaar staff

So, it’s that time of the year again. In case you are unaware of the month, and our cover and subtle design easter eggs didn’t give it away, it’s November-or, more importantly, it’s Movember! Of course, Movember is an important time of the year. It pushes, promotes and highlights the importance of men’s health, and getting medically checked out through simple and fast examinations.

It is also the one time of the year that males all over the world can legitimately grow some of the dodgiest facial hair known to mankind, and be able to blame it on a special event while complaining about it and saying “I know how stupid it looks’’, but secretly love it and feel like Burt Reynolds. It’s OK fellas, no shame-I’m one of you. In celebration of that, we present our favorite, famous moustaches from days yonder. Tom Selleck Look, any list or article about moustaches is automatically void and invalid if Magnum PI doesn’t feature first. I’m sure that’s a law actually-or at least it should be. We can let the picture do the talking here. If you search ‘moustache’ in a dictionary, Tom’s face should be the picture next to it, with no description. Just him. I’m sure Ferrari sold 80% of their 380 GTS models based purely on the fact that it reminded buyers of Magnum P.I’s crumb catcher. Albert Einstein Prehaps the smartest, most intelligent cookie duster on this list, Albert Einstein always rocks a fleek ‘stache in any picture you see of him. We

suspect, being the genius he was, he had some kind of special formula for growing, trimming and styling that involved years of study and research. As the old science saying goes (that I just made up): Mo’ intelligence, mo’ mo. Pringles Guy We have no idea of his name, but feel free to let us know if you do. No prizes, but you win bragging rights for life. Anyway-look at that upper lipholstery-it is truly a ‘stache to behold! Our guess is that he has such a mighty mo to suggest that, if you eat Pringles, you too can be as epic as he. We are unsure if that is a solid theory but we are willing to try, just on the off chance. Mine’s a tube of salt and vinegar, please. Salvador Dali The Spanish painter with an amazing example of lip foliage. Unlike the other entries here, Dali went with a thin, neat, styled ‘stache, which we think perfectly matched his artistic and surrealist style. It is easy to miss, but as he grew in fame and explored various styles of art, so too did his mo. Personally, I have always wanted a Dali style moustache, so that when I hatch evil and diabolical plans, I can twirl it between my fingers and emit an evil cackle. Hulk Hogan While he isn’t going through his finest hour lately, there’s no denying that his mouth brow makes the Mo Hall Of Fame. Bushy? Check. Handlebar design? Check. White (the most rad color of beard/mustache)? Check. Not only has Hogans ‘stache won it’s way to numerous wrestling world titles, but it also starred in Mr. Nanny. It may just be unstoppable.

Tiktok

USMAN

CHOUDHRY: THE MAN

BEHIND KUWAIT

UPTO DATE

By Nejoud Al-Yagout

here’s something so secretive about bloggers. They seem to bring to light everyone and everything except themselves. If you are lucky, you can catch a glimpse of them at events, but even then, they exude an aura of mystique. If you happened to blink and miss a blogger, the best you can do is what I did: interview one! Everyone knows Kuwait UpTo Date, a blog that provides information about everything from cultural events to fires around town. The founder seems to be here, there, everywhere. His finger is on the pulse of cultural activities and happenings at all the times. So, we may be acquainted with the aptly titled blog, but very few of us know anything about the man behind the blogUsman Choudhry.

Your Facebook page alone has more than 850,000 followers. That is absolutely phenomenal! How do people hear about your blog? Is it through adver tising or word of mouth? First of all, I would like to thank bazaar for this opportunity. Two years ago, I began reading it at Al-Kout’s Starbucks, but I never thought to see myself in it one day. This question is something I am supposed to ask you! How did you hear about my blog? Initially, people hear of it through “word of mouth,” but my passion for photography also helped me get exposure at events. In addition, after an interview on Radio 99.7 FM, the number of followers jumped. And, now, being interviewed for bazaar will also help my

blog. I must mention to fellow bloggers that various social media platforms also keep your blog on top if the content is rich and unique. On the other hand, I believe that there was a niche in the Kuwait market to have a social platform that both promotes events and adds other news at the same time, so I injected myself into this space. I would like to add that - so far – the Kuwait UpTo Date section of “Events in Kuwait” has a high ranking in the Google search engine for promoting upcoming cultural, educational and entertainment events schedules in Kuwait. This is also a bonus for the blog. For many people residing in town, you are the go-to person for information, locally. Do you feel constant pressure to keep us “up to date?”

When people start expecting a lot from you, then there is a build-up of constant pressure. Sometimes, it affects your personal and professional life. But, luckily, I am a supportive and cooperative fellow, both at home and at the office. Still, I sometimes have to face my mom’s 2000-watt scolding along with the angry stares of my boss when I fail to keep a balance between being a blogger, a son or an employee. Regarding information, KUD is based on the idea to “keep updating and to stay updated.” So I am grateful for the contribution of the hundreds of kind people in Kuwait who believe in keeping people updated and aware - in order to make them understand the people, culture, market and environment. With such a cult following, you must have pranksters bombarding you with phone calls. How do you verify the news that is sent to you? Firebrands and pranksters have always been a part of any audience whether it be a huge gathering of people or on an online social platform. You find them at schools and sometimes at work, too, but ultimately you learn a lot through their pranks so it teaches you how to handle them. Now, as an administrator for the blog, it has become a routine job to handle such phone calls and messages; but I never argue with them and I always accept their reports graciously and thank them. This is the best solution to face them. Regarding news verification, this is more sensitive. Sometimes, different individuals can report news without any cause for concern since they are documenting public events. However, other news items require official references and permission to be published, so I have to be extra careful. How do you deal with vicious comments either regarding your content or among readers themselves? Oh God. Most of my time was previously spent deleting or blocking Iniquitous

comments and warning commentators. It averaged around 150 to 200 people per day. But now, Facebook and certain websites have tools that have made it easy to apply filters to hide such comments. I still contact them afterwards, to request that they avoid irrelevant and vicious comments as they lead to unnecessary quarrels in the comments section. Sometimes, irrelevant messages and comments make my day - such as this message: “Oh Admin, I like and appreciate all of your posts but sometimes I feel that you should get married. Then you can enjoy all the road fires and accidents from your home only instead of on the roads.” ☺ Apart from the vicious comments and time constraints, it still must be such a rewarding experience to keep people abreast of what is happening. When did you decide to become a blogger? And how did the idea of Kuwait UpTo Date, specifically, manifest itself? It had always been my dream since schooldays to either be involved with a media company or to be a blogger ; however, I graduated and was led to commerce and accounting. My brother told me that I could follow my dream after university, but all my dreams vanished when I graduated. Then, at the end of 2011, my hopes were revived and Kuwait UpTo Date was born. It was another phase of my life, holding a Smar tphone and a DSLR to make my dream come true. I began highlighting interesting activities in Kuwait via social media alongside my actual job as a banker. You hail from Pakistan, but have lived here for some time. Was it easy to become a par t of Kuwait mainstream culture? Well, being a Muslim, we are a par t of each other. But, yes, you take time to adapt to the culture, especially the climate. The majority of people living in Kuwait are expatriates, so in most working environments and

residential areas you will not find cultural elements unique to Kuwait around you. That is why it was a little difficult to identify the typical culture of Kuwait along with the traditional events, but so far it has been a good experience. This summer, you were awarded a Shield of Appreciation by the PBC - which was presented to you by the Ambassador of Pakistan. Can you tell us more about this extraordinar y achievement? Yes, that was a ver y exciting moment. I have been awarded and appreciated by different communities in Kuwait many times before, but frankly, this time the cheers and the clapping made it unique, alhamdulillah. Finally, do you have any advice for wouldbe bloggers? This is something you can star t irrespective of your profession, but you need to divide your time wisely in terms of your profession, other life activities and domestic responsibilities in order to avoid any irrecoverable loss. As a blogger, you get an oppor tunity to express your opinions with a large number of readers, but - as per my experience - a single person in this large audience can place you in big trouble due to a small mistake. So a blogger needs to be careful with the content, and must avoid governmental and religious issues. Be patient, unique, and remember that you are responsible for your blog, so respect others’ content and rights.

Usman Choudhry works as a banker for Kuwait Finance House and counts photography as a h o b b y. Yo u c a n f o l l ow h i m o n I n s t a g r a m @kuwaituptodate, follow his Facebook page: KuwaitUPTODATE, or check out his website www.kuwaitup2date.com. 59

HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT REMOTE WORK SPOT By Laura Vanderkam

Working remotely sounds great, but spending the entire day alone in your pajamas can get depressing pretty fast. This is why a lot of freelancers choose to work in coffee shops, libraries or coworking spaces. But once you’re out in the world, you open yourself up to all the same distractions that open office dwellers complain about.

I was once working in my local library when an incensed patron engaged in a loud and very long conversation with the desk clerk about a fine he had incurred. Needless to say, I was not getting any work done. Another time, I tried to go to a cafe and lost precious work time circling to find parking because the nearby shopping mall was packed. I showed up another night at a favourite cafe, only to learn the place had ended its evening hours. These experiences have made me wonder if there’s a right way to find the perfect remote work spot—though it’s possible I’m approaching this question with the wrong mind-set. “There’s a lot of fun to be had in discovery while still being able to rely on your own ability to work from anywhere,” says Jewel Mlnarik, founder of Workfrom, an app that’s somewhat like Yelp for remote work spots. Here are some ways to master the journey.

THINK OF YOUR MUST-HAVES I lack the ability to tune out stupid conversations, therefore, I love quiet. I don’t care about Wi-Fi; I leave my home office to get away from my inbox. Maybe you want somewhere where no one will glare at you for making a phone call. Maybe you don’t trust yourself around pastries, so you’d prefer somewhere that doesn’t serve food. Figure out your non-negotiables and start from there. THINK OUTSIDE THE COFFEE SHOP Apps such as Workfrom list all kinds of remote-worker friendly spots with features and reviews. Search by your criteria, but be flexible on what you’ll try. Some restaurants have more space than coffee shops. Dinnerrush time is probably out, but the middle of the afternoon is okay. LiquidSpace can help you find coworking or rentable office spaces; they’re not “free” like coffee shops, but the price may be comparable to what you shell out for the lattes and salads that finance your keep, and some have more amenities like printing and white boards. Despite the occasional irate fellow patron, libraries are generally good for quiet work. Universities may have study spaces that don’t require a student ID. Hotel lobbies have a good bustle if you prefer that. Or there’s this: “I am lucky, I happen to live in Portland,” says Mlnarik, “and a lot of Portland parks have WiFi and often have power too.” Pro tip: Look for outlets by baseball dugouts. BUILD YOUR PORTFOLIO Experiment with different places to see where you work best. I now go to a larger

branch library where I can work far away from the checkout desk. I’ve discovered that my local Panera has more parking and tables than my local cafe. Mlnarik suggests using recommendations from apps to try new neighbourhoods. “When you need to take a break, walk around and let yourself explore new surroundings,” she says. Often these new stimuli spark great ideas. Consider trying places that don’t meet all your criteria; a place that doesn’t work for a phone call is fine if you park nearby. A car is “a perfect little office” for a few minutes, says Mlnarik. BECOME A REGULAR The upside of returning to a few favourite places regularly is that the staff will get to know you. They’ll become friendly faces. They may also warn you if the coffee shop has scheduled a concert on the day you usually work there. CHECK IN WITH THE COMMUNITY Rating work spots helps the whole remote worker ecosystem; a coffee shop owner who welcomes free agents deserves more of their business. But beyond that, “What we hear a lot is that working outside of the office can get lonely,” says Mlnarik. People ask, “Where are other people working, and how can I meet up with other people out in the wild?” Check in with your location, and you might be able to chat during a break with someone working on similar issues. Not only will you get a productive work session in, you might make a connection as well—and that would make anywhere a perfect remote work spot.

fantasy world

NEW 16-LENS POCKET-SIZED CAMERA AIMS TO KICK BULKY DSLRS TO THE CURB By Daniel Terdiman

When shooting photos on the go, sixteen lenses are far better than one. That’s the premise behind the L16, a new fits-in-your-pocket multiaperture camera that its maker—a well-funded Silicon Valley startup called Light—thinks is going to blow away DSLRs with expensive lenses...not to mention smartphones. Light unveiled the L16 today, offering it for pre-order at $1,299 (KD 390) but saying it plans on charging $1,699 (KD 510) when the camera ships in late summer of 2016. The L16, Light promises, will offer great optical zoom, high-resolution, substantial low-light capabilities, and very fine after-the-fact depthof-field controls, all without the need for add-on lenses or a multi-thousand-dollar body. The idea for the L16 stems from what Light’s founders see as a huge gap in today’s photography market. On one hand, you have the committed photographer who doesn’t mind lugging a heavy DSLR around, while on the other, you have the people who rely on their smartphone cameras, millions of which are terrific in some situations, but ultimately have very limited capabilities. According to Light cofounder and CEO Dave Grannan, the L16 replicates the functionality of a full-frame DSLR with three prime lenses, and a telephoto that zooms from 35 mm to 150 mm. Under the hood, the camera—which is about the same height and width as an iPhone 6S Plus with a little more thickness—features five 35 mm lenses, five 70 mm lenses with mirrors, and six 150 mm lenses. The mirrors, explained Grannan, fold the optics, and help keep the L16 as compact as possible. It also has an onboard

5-inch LCD high-definition display. Although the camera features sixteen lenses, it uses just ten when shooting a photograph. The L16’s magic, as Grannan puts it, is in the algorithms it uses to select which ten to fire. The key is that the camera was designed to simultaneously capture many different high-res images and then automatically fuse them into a single photograph with a resolution of up to 52 megapixels. That makes the L16 ideal for shooting everything from kids’ soccer games to concerts, the company believes. And thanks to post-processing technology available on users’ computers, it’s also possible to edit photos to change the depth of field after the fact. In addition, the L16’s exposure time and ISO settings are equivalent to that found on high-end DSLRs, Grannan says, while offering a depth-of-field perspective equivalent to f/1.2 that matches that of very fast, high-quality lenses. The camera is also capable of shooting 4K video with true optical zoom. One of the reasons millions of people rely on their smartphones to take between 2 trillion and 3 trillion photos every year is that those devices are already in their pockets, handbags, and backpacks. As has been said many times, the best camera is the one you have with you. Light is betting that people want to take great photos without lugging around their bulky DSLRs. But the company also acknowledges that the L16, despite being pocket-sized, is yet another device for people to take with them. In that sense, it doesn’t solve the problem of giving users a photo solution without having to carry something other than their phone.

Still, Grannan argues that the L16 is small enough to fit into users’ everyday lifestyle, and that a lot of people will choose the camera given the quality of photos it shoots. Great photos “are just not going to happen with cell-phone cameras,” Grannan says, and people’s desire to shoot terrific pictures is a “pretty powerful motivator….Yes, this is a different device, but it replaces the kit of gear (of DSLRs and multiple lenses) for someone that wants really great photos.” Even as Light is preparing to release the L16 next year, it has also reached a licensing deal with Foxconn—which is making the camera— that allows the Chinese manufacturing giant to build a scaled-down version of Light’s technology into smartphones. According to Grannan, Foxconn will have the right to incorporate multiple lenses with a focal length of up to 100 mm into its partners’ phones. Light doesn’t have any control over who those partners are, and won’t necessarily have advance notice about such partnerships, but one of Foxconn’s major smartphone partners is Apple. Light knows that photographers are eager to share their photos, and that an on-the-go camera should make that easy. As such, the L16 features onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality that enables instant sharing on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and other social networks. The company also plans on offering a premium cloud-storage service, and the ability to push photo to users’ computers or tablet devices. At the same time, iOS and Android apps will allow people to post photos from their smartphones.

‫اﻟﺼﺎﳊﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﻣﺪﻳﻜﺎل ﺑﺎﭬﻠﻴﻮن ‪...‬‬

‫أﺣﺪث ﻣﺮﻛﺰ ﻃﺒﻲ � اﻟﻌﺎﺻﻤﺔ‬ ‫ﺟﻨﺎح ﺻﺒﺎ ‪SIBA‬‬ ‫ا�ﻣﺮاض اﳉﻠﺪﻳﺔ واﻟﻠﻴﺰر‬ ‫ﺗﺸﺨﻴﺺ وﻋﻼج ﺟﻤﻴــﻊ ا�ﻣــﺮاض اﳉﻠــﺪﻳــﺔ‬ ‫ﻟﻠﺒﺎﻟﻐﲔ وا�ﻃﻔﺎل‬ ‫ﺗﺸﺨﻴﺺ وﻋﻼج اﻟﺘﻬــﺎﺑــﺎت اﳉﻠــﺪ )ا�ﻛﺰﳝــﺎ‪،‬‬ ‫اﻟﺼﺪﻓﻴﺔ‪ ،‬ﺣﺐ اﻟﺸﺒﺎب‪ ،‬اﻟﻮردﻳﺔ(‬ ‫ﺗﺸﺨﻴﺺ وﻋﻼج أﻣــﺮاض اﳌﻨــﺎﻋــﺔ اﻟﺬاﺗﻴــﺔ‬ ‫)اﻟﺒﻬﺎق‪ ،‬اﻟﺬﺋﺒﺔ(‬ ‫ﺗﺸﺨﻴﺺ وﻋﻼج ا�ﻣﺮاض اﳉﻠـﺪﻳــﺔ اﳌﻌﺪﻳــﺔ‬ ‫واﻟﻨﺎﲡــﺔ ﻋــﻦ ا�ﺗﺼــﺎل اﳉﻨﺴــﻲ وا�ﻣــﺮاض‬ ‫اﳉﻠﺪﻳﺔ اﻟﺴﺮﻃﺎﻧﻴﺔ‬ ‫اﳉﺮاﺣﺎت اﳉﻠﺪﻳﺔ ﺑﺄﻧﻮاﻋﻬﺎ )ﻛﻲ اﻟﺒﺜﻮر‪ ،‬اﻟﻌﻼج‬ ‫ﺑﺎﻟﺘ�ﻳﺪ‪ ،‬إﺳﺘﺌﺼﺎل اﻟﺘﻘﺮﺣﺎت واﻟﺜﺂﻟﻴﻞ(‬ ‫ﺣﻘﻦ اﻟﺒﻮﺗﻜﺲ‪ ،‬اﻟﻔﻴﻠﺮز‪ ،‬اﳌﻴﺰوﺛ�اﺑـﻲ واﻟﺒﻼزﻣﺎ‬ ‫) ‪ ( PRP‬ﻟﻠﻮﺟﻪ واﻟﺸﻌﺮ‬ ‫اﳋﻴــﻮط اﻟﻐﻴــﺮ ﺟﺮاﺣﻴــﺔ ﻟﺮﻓــﻊ وﺷــﺪ اﻟﻮﺟــﻪ‬ ‫واﻟﺮﻗﺒﺔ‬ ‫أﺣﺪث أﺟﻬﺰة اﻟﻠﻴﺰر �زاﻟﺔ اﻟﺸﻌﺮ‪ ،‬ﻋـﻼج اﻟﻜﻠـﻒ‬ ‫واﻟﺘﺼﺒﻐﺎت واﻟﺘﺠﺎﻋﻴـﺪ‪ ،‬ﺣﺐ اﻟﺸﺒﺎب واﻟﻨﺪب‪،‬‬ ‫ﺷﺪ وﻧﻀﺎرة اﻟﺒﺸﺮة‬ ‫أﺣﺪث أﺟﻬﺰة اﻟﺸﺪ واﻟﻨﺤﺖ وإذاﺑﺔ اﻟﺪﻫﻮن‬ ‫واﻟﺴﻠﻴﻮﻟﻴﺖ‬

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‫اﻟﺪﻛﺘﻮرة ﺳﺎﺑﲔ ﻛﺮوﺟﺮ‬ ‫اﺳﺘﺸﺎري ا�ﻣﺮاض اﳉﻠﺪﻳﺔ واﻟﺘﻨﺎﺳﻠﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﺟﺎﻣﻌﺔ ﻓﺮي � ﺑﺮﻟﲔ – أﳌﺎﻧﻴﺎ‬

‫�ﻤﻊ ﻧﻮر اﻟﺼﺎﳊﻴﺔ‪ ،‬اﻟﻄﺎﺑﻖ اﻟﺜﺎ�‪،‬‬ ‫ﻣﻘﺎﺑﻞ �ﻤﻊ اﻟﺼﺎﳊﻴﺔ‬ ‫‪w w w . s a l h i y a p av i l i o n . c o m‬‬

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Qout Market: The Journey By bazaar staff

Putting Down Roots The word ‘Qout’ is an old Arabic word that roughly translates to ‘daily sustenance’. Qout Market came together in 2013 out of the need for a platform. A platform for local farmers, craftsmen, and food enthusiasts to connect with each other and a wider community of like-minded people in a relaxed setting. Co-founders Noaf Hussein of @PLTQ8 and Budour Al Qassar of @OvenExperiments also felt that Kuwait needed a place where people could while away a Saturday morning and afternoon, grab a cup of ar tisanal coffee, peruse market stalls and plan to run into a neighbor. It was always what both co-founders loved to do on their travels. The notion of ‘handproduced’ and ‘locally-grown’ was something they both felt was important to explore within the context of their home country. And so they spent a few months researching and looking for the vendors needed to represent the vendor community. At the time, they were few and far between. It would most often be somebody who was making gluten-free products for themselves because they couldn’t find what they needed locally. Somebody who made nut butters from scratch because commercial products had too many additives. A person with a demanding day job who found a passion for farming. Carefully and painstakingly, this community was pieced together. And that’s when the magic happened. 64

Niche Interest? The seasonal market was to run from the peak growing season of November to April. After many months of planning and research, the first market took place in November of 2013, and it featured less than 20 stalls. The co-founders wondered – was this a niche interest with a small following? The answer was a loud and resounding no. The very first market was set up to handle foot traffic in the low hundreds and was met with foot traffic in the low thousands, with many stalls selling out nine hours before the scheduled closing time. Niche interest it was not. Delighted and exhausted, the co-founders sprang into action. A month later, the market was expanded to meet the demand, ballooning to six times the size and moving to the rooftop of a multi-story parking garage. And so the market remained— large and bustling— all the way until the end of its second season in April of 2015. The Need To Nourish Nourish and FarmTable were two initiatives Qout Market felt compelled to put together in the second season to further empower the community formed via the monthly market platform. After interacting with the vendors on a monthly basis for the entire first season, the co-founders realized they had tapped into a collective pool of knowledge unlike any other. Qout Market vendors were not only knowledgable about their subject and product, but personable and fantastic at transferring their passion and knowledge to others. And so Nourish was born – to nourish the mind as well as body. The week-long series of free workshops took place in October of 2014 with topics that included things like the basics of nutrition in both English and Arabic, to food demonstrations, inspirational talks, food photography, crafting, lifestyle, and kitchen skills. Classes were completely funded with the support of Al Zain Al Sabah of the Ministry of State for Youth Affairs, had a class size of only 20 to allow for intimacy and an environment conducive to learning, and was wonderful for both instructors and participants. The second way Qout Market wanted to nourish the local community was by means of weekend trips to local farms. To really understand farming in Kuwait, one had to experience it firsthand! FarmTable took place in December of the second season, with an activitypacked itinerary. Visitors were transported to Kenaneya Farms and were taken on an informative tour by the farmer, given the chance to pick produce, and served a farmto-table feast cooked in the open kitchen

by a local chef. After brunch and the tour, visitors were given the chance to relax while watching the sun set on the field. To end the experience, neighboring farms were called in for a mini farmers market. Visitors left exhausted after the day-long experience that uniquely combined education with relaxation. A Flourishing Community Now in its third season, Qout Market has become the place where people come expecting to discover, mingle, learn something new and spend a full enriching day with their families and friends. There is now an awareness and demand for the hand-produced item made in small batches. Many market-goers have formed and maintained a relationship with the farmers. Local businesses have collaborated with the vendors, many of whom have moved from stall to brick-and-mortar establishments. The Qout Mar ket community flourished, but the co-founders still felt a sense of responsibility toword this burgeoning coterie. Season Three The third season of Qout Market begins this November, in a new format, at a new venue, and on a different schedule. This schedule will be allowed to ebb and flow organically. Instead of being on the first Saturday of every month from November

to April, it will now be on a more flexible schedule, with markets taking place twice a month most months. Other months, like January for example, there will be space for planning only one market and combining it with a series of FarmTables should the weather allow. Schedules will be posted online ahead of time, found at the bottom of every page of the website. Murouj, next to the Sahara Golf Club, will serve as a most elegant and understated venue perfect for the vision in year three. The markets will be scaled down in size so the curation can remain powerful and engaging. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance for every visitor to interact with all our vendors while still getting the full Qout Market experience. The market will continue to combine local farm produce, artisanal food products, and crafts with a street food section aimed at highlighting the culinary diversity of Kuwaitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food community. Children have a dedicated section for enriching activities and local musical acts will get the chance to perform. A Commitment To Quality Qout Market was meant to form a microcosm of all the wonderful people and things that make Kuwait, Kuwait. Vendors are carefully chosen for their product and passion, but most impor tantly their character and commitment to this sense of community. Qout Market vendors represent over twenty countries (and counting) bringing wonderful diversity to this carefully cultivated community. The educational initiatives will continue as part of the Qout Market commitment to empower and nourish the community they have brought together. The Siren Song A coming together of such wonderful products and producers is a siren song for the curious. The founders of Qout Market work tirelessly to seek out the unexpected. That way, every interaction with their organization is a journey of discovery and learning. By maintaining standards, they are able to keep visitors hungry and curious. The market has become both a place to spend a sunny Saturday on a journey of discovery and a place to socialize. The educational initiatives seek to nourish and empower this community in ways that complete the market experience. The way Noaf and Budour see it, it is a recipe for magic. Qout Market is a seasonal artisanal food and crafts market founded in 2013 and still run by Noaf Hussein and Budour Al Qassar. Visit www.qoutmarket.com for more information, or stalk them on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook @QoutMarket. Photography by Aziza Al Ghunaim.

WHY SWEDEN IS SHIFTING

TO A 6-HOUR WORKDAY

By Adele Peters

The eight-hour workday hasn’t changed much since Henry Ford first experimented with it for factory workers. Now, we work slightly longer—an average 8.7 hours— though more time goes into email, meetings, and Facebook than whatever our official job duties actually are. Is it time to rethink how many hours we spend at the office? In Sweden, the six-hour workday is becoming common. “I think the eight-hour workday is not as effective as one would think,” says Linus Feldt, CEO of Stockholm-based app developer Filimundus. “To stay focused on a specific work task for eight hours is a huge challenge… In order to cope, we mix in things and pauses to make the workday more endurable. At the same time, we are finding it hard to manage our private life outside of work. We want to spend more time with our families, we want to learn new things or exercise more. I wanted to see if there could be a way to mix these things.” Filimundus switched to a six-hour day last year, and says that the change hasn’t really made a major difference in how people work. The leadership team just asked people to stay off social media and personal distractions, and eliminated some standard weekly meetings.

“My impression now is that it is easier to focus more intensely on the work that needs to be done and you have the stamina to do it and still have energy left when leaving the office,” Feldt says. The company is not alone. Brath, another tech startup, made the move three years ago. For them, one of the biggest advantages is that it helps them hire and keep employees, as the CEO writes in a blog post: “We also believe that once you’ve gotten used to having time for the family, picking up the kids at daycare, spending time training for a race or simply just cooking good food at home, you don’t want to lose that again. We believe that this is a good reason to stay with us and not only because of the actual impact longer hours would make in your life but for the reason behind our shorter days. . . . We actually care about our employees.” It’s also happening in the public sector. In one recent experiment, nurses at a governmentrun retirement home were able to switch to a six-hour day for the same pay. In that case, it did cost more money, but the costs were offset by better care for patients because nurses were less exhausted. The retirement-home experiment is temporary, and may not become official policy. In the 1990s, some other Swedish retirement homes and daycares tested out six-hour days and then ended up switching back because of the cost, but the shift in private companies may happen more quickly.

At Filimundus, there haven’t been any downsides to the change, and the company is squeezing the same amount of productivity into each day. “Sure, there have been times when something is needed in an instant and a person is not available because they left the office, but that could happen in an eight-hour environment as well,” Feldt says. “Some people would argue that it is a costly measure for the company, but that is based on a conventional conception that people are effective 100 percent of an eight-hour day.” Everyone who works at the company suddenly has more energy. “The biggest response that I couldn’t foresee was the energy level I felt with my colleagues,” he says. “They were happy leaving the office and happy coming back the next day. They didn’t feel drained or fatigued. That has also helped the work groups to work better together now, when we see less conflicts and arguments. People are happier.” It’s something that he sees as fundamental to the company’s success. “I believe that we value time more than money today,” he says. “I am absolutely sure that more and more people would choose more free time before a high salary. Going from an eight-hour day to six has helped us spread the message that we invest in our staff. That we believe that a happy staff is the absolute top priority for a successful company. If your staff is happy, your company is happy.”

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HOW TO DO MOVEMBER RIGHT By Ryan Bort

It’s now November, which also means it’s now Movember, the month-long grow-a-mustache-forcharity challenge that may explain the awkward upper lip hair some of your friends might start sprouting in the coming weeks. It’s now more likely than ever that someone you know will be doing just that. Last year almost a million men around the world participated in Movember, raising $120 million for men’s health. The official rules of Movember state that you must shave your face completely and then grow out and groom a mustache until the calendar turns to December, but growing a ‘stache from scratch is a daunting prospect for a lot of men; it’s hard not to look creepy when those reluctant whiskers under your nose don’t have a beard around them for support. To help quell your anxieties, we spoke with Rob McMillen of Blind Barber, a full-service Movember-certified barber shop with locations in New York and L.A., to gather a few tips for navigating Movember the right way. PICK A STYLE “The first step in figuring out how you want to do it is figuring out what kind of mustache you want to grow. Most guys will have questions,

and they’ll be really confused about the rules. We don’t necessarily press the rules as much.” If you’re only looking for a month-long romp with your ‘stache, we recommend going for The Pencil, The Shadow, The Gosling, or, if you’re feeling lucky, The Revolutionary. And no, milk mustaches do not count. And as McMillen says, “It comes down to the individual. There’s some guys that are going to shave on November 1 and by the end of the month they have a full handlebar mustache or trucker-type mustache, and then there are guys that have their mustaches take forever to start to grow.” SHAVE WITH A TRIMMER TO FOSTER IT ALONG “As opposed to doing a full, clean shave, maybe do some things with some of the great trimmers on the market. If you do a full, clean razor shave and then get a little stubble on the top of the lip, it pops that much more. So we’ll be like, ‘Hey, maybe you can trim your facial hair down with just a trimmer, so you have a little stubble and that mustache is coming in. I think that’s a nice way to go, because it shows a little bit of stubble on the face, and then as the mustache starts to grow, you can foster it along. Then when [your mustache] is ready to go you can do that full clean shave that will really allow it to pop.” BUT WHEN YOU’RE SHAVING... “I think the one thing we encourage is that

when you do shave to use your proper preshave and post-shave regiment. Warming the skin, using a proper shave cream and a moisturizer.” DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP “I think especially at the beginning of the month, a lot of guys aren’t sure [what they want to do]. We’ll try to encourage guys to do the shave-off, and be like, ‘Hey, if you want to come back in a few weeks…’ Just come back and be like, ‘Hey, I’ve got a couple things coming in. I’m about to shave again. I don’t know what I should do.’ And we’ll give them a suggestion and point them in the right direction.” MOST OF ALL, BE PATIENT AND BE CONFIDENT “In general, we just try to tell the guys to be patient. And don’t over-groom. A lot of guys that are trying to let a mustache come in tend to get a little impatient and give up halfway through, or try to adjust a little too much on their own. You’ve just got to be patient and have some confidence with it. That’s really all we try to push. When you’re first growing a mustache it’s hard to avoid looking creepy. Even if you have a mustache people might look at it as such. But I think that’s the point.”

For more information about how to get involved, visit www.movember.com.

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KUWAIT GOES HOLLYWOOD An exclusive chat with Kuwaiti producer Nawaf Alghanim on working with the late Wes Craven By bazaar staff

It’s always amazing when one of our own wanders into the world to put Kuwait on the map, but when we heard that Kuwait went Hollywood, we were pleasantly surprised! Nawaf Al Ghanim, an American-born Kuwaiti launched an independent production company in Los Angeles and produced his very first movie The Girl in the Photographs with the late, great Wes Craven, the genius behind horror classics such as the Scream franchise and A Nightmare On Elm Street. After receiving his BS and MB in Civil Engineering in Southern California, the longtime movie fanatic decided to pursue his passion after graduating from San Jose State University. “I’ve always been interested in the arts but there weren’t many ways to release my creative energy.” Thanks to Nawaf, paving the way for other creative souls in Kuwait with dreams to make it in the movie industry is becoming a reality. By launching Al Ghanim Entertainment, the producer is providing an opportunity for Kuwait to be recognized in Hollywood “I want to put Kuwait on the map and in the movies. Both Qatar and the UAE have production companies that release internationally, but Kuwait hasn’t found that yet. It’s an honor to be the first and to release a Hollywood film with one of the greats.” 72

The film is described as fun with an amazing script that pays homage to older horror films of the 80s and 90s. Though the movie hasn’t been fully released to the public as of yet, the plot boasts intrigue and thrill: A young woman living in small South Dakota town keeps finding high-fashion ads with mutilated models. Are they real or staged? The culprit is either a serial killer or some creep with a sick sense of humor, and the cops aren’t doing much about it either way. When news of the twisted photo campaign hits the Internet, a famous LA-based celebrity photographer, decides to take a trip to the small town to investigate who’s been mutilating his work. The cast is studded with stars that are old favorites, such as Kal Penn (Harold and Kumar series), familiar faces such as Christy Carlson Romano (the bossy sister from Disney’s Even Stevens) and TV’s talented beauties such as

Claudia Lee (Hart of Dixie) and Miranda Rae Mayo (Pretty Little Liars). Combined with a killer storyline and cast, Al Ghanim’s debut film is sure to be a hit! When did you get into film producing, and what inspired you to launch a Kuwaiti production company in Los Angeles? I’ve always liked movies from the get-go and I believe that I know what a good movie is, so I decided to start making them. I also felt inspired to create a gateway to further introduce our culture to Hollywood. I believe in Arabs influencing Hollywood - in fact, the director of The Girl in the Photographs (Nick Simon) is half Syrian, which is partially why I picked the film! Do you think it’s been receiving a positive reaction between the East and West so far? I think so! We haven’t been around for very long so far and this is our first movie, but I’ve been getting so much support from friends and family here in Kuwait. I also feel that this company will inspire fellow filmmakers in Kuwait to put themselves out there. What’s your ideal outcome for this company? Besides merging the East and West in the entertainment industry, I also aspire to work on a lot of different types of films that are more well-rounded. I’m not exclusive to horror films, though it was a lot of fun working on one. We’d like to explore more scripts and see what’s out there for us to turn into blockbuster hits. I’d also like to eventually organize a fund-raiser of sorts in the region

to expand our budget so we could produce more eclectic movies! It’s a process. We’re still a new company and I’m excited to see how much we’ll grow. Tell us a bit about your process and a day in the life of a producer. After picking the script and meeting the directors, writers and crew, you start holding auditions. We were lucky enough to have an amazing cast of young and talented actors and actresses. Once you have your cast, you have to choose locations to shoot the film. We picked beautiful Victoria Island in British Columbia, Canada. After choosing the location to shoot, the filming begins, and this takes about three months. Then there’s editing, color correction, and sound. It’s a long and tiring process with long hours and a lot of gray hairs, but it’s fulfilling. Were you pleased with the outcome of The Girl in the Photographs? Extremely. We premiered in the Midnight Madness segment of the Toronto Film Festival on September 15th in front of an audience of 2,000 people! People laughed when appropriate and screamed and gasped when appropriate. We also had a great response in a recent world premiere at the Sitges Film Festival and our upcoming premiere at Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Los Angeles. We’re getting a lot of exposure, and I know the public will be enjoying this movie. What makes the ideal production team? As a producer, you have to know how to put

your foot down because creative types do tend to run wild with their ideas. It takes a lot of patience, but you definitely have to be a people’s person and remember that it takes a team to make everything work. You have to rely on everyone to get something done and have faith in everybody on your team. Personally, I couldn’t have worked with a better crew! What was it like, working with the late Wes Craven? Wes Craven was a good friend of mine and he was really involved. It was an honor working with him, especially on his last movie. We also lived close to each other and got to know each other better. I would bring him back things from Kuwait that he would hang in his house! He was a part of it the whole way, and did as much as he could while he was sick. It was an honor working with Wes on his last one, and he will definitely be missed. If you could go back in time and produce an epic film of your choice, which would it be and why? I’d love to remake the movie Dune. It’s a best selling Sci-Fi book by Frank Herbert that was made into a movie in the 1970s, starring Patrick Stewart. Maybe somewhere down the line.

For updates on the movie’s international release, follow the progress on Instagram @Thegirlinthephotographs. Follow AGE on Instagram as @Alghanimentertainment, and contact them at info@alghaniment.com.

TESLA MODEL S P90D By Dimitar Dakov

Let’s talk about inspiration. Webster’s dictionary describes it as “a force or influence that inspires someone”… What an uninspired description.

I’ve been sitting here on my desk for the best part of three hours with one paragraph written down, lost somewhere between an endless stream of YouTube cats, video games and badly recorded old school indie music. Truth is, I have a deadline to submit this article; a deadline inscribed in the pages of history by a couple of hours. While everybody is talking about Movember and Halloween, all that comes to my mind are cars, electric guitars… and sushi, too. So that is what inspiration is… the ability to combine the three things that first come to your mind into something remotely understandable to a sane person. So please bear with me. Here I go. Electricity. Is there something that it has not improved? Life would be so much harder without it. Throughout the years, mankind tamed and refined this unpredictable and quite dangerous beast of nature, to the point where you can now wirelessly charge your smartwatch. Electricity gave birth to the electric guitar, probably the single most influential musical instrument in the world from the 1960s onwards. I mean, just listen to “Eruption” by Van Halen. Then there’s sushi. One of those foods you can seemingly eat forever without gaining weight. Apart from Sumo wrestlers, I have never seen an overweight Japanese person. In fact,

all Japanese between the ages of 45 and 74 MUST have their waistlines measured every single year. If Sushi is good enough for them, so be it. It’s exotic, it’s good for you and we love it. For years we’ve had electric cars, but they were never really any good. Their batteries would go flat faster that warm soda, and take an eternity to charge. We’ve had exotic cars too, but they are pretty rubbish as well, what with their touchy maintenance, harsh ride and boots the size of a back pocket. So what if you could combine electricity’s sheer brutality with the delicate exotic nature of sushi? One man did, and his name is Elon Musk. Being one of those geniuses unable to outgrow their childhood, Elon Musk set about creating something capable of leaving a Lamborghini Aventador to cry in the corner, but at the same time fit seven people, their luggage and all gadgets from Minority Report inside one car. Press the ’Ludicrous’ button on the Tesla Model S P90d and you will be pulverized in a hurricane of silent madness until you reach 100 km/h in just under 2.8 seconds. I can’t begin to describe the feeling after the initial shock of having to put your organs back where they belong. It’s supremely quiet, supple and upmarket. So quiet in fact, that you can hear every rustle, every bated breath followed by a quiet, nervous sigh as the car cruises past 200 km/h. The Model S is such a conflict of emotions that you start eagerly anticipating the battery to

go flat so you can go back to non-blurred reality. But no, it will go for at least 400 km before it needs juicing up, and even then, it takes around 30 minutes at a supercharger station to have it ready for some more neck snapping action. Plus, because the electric motors are the size of a moulinex, and the flat battery pack is under the floor, you get two trunks, with the front aptly named the ’Frunk’ ( Front + Trunk). Inside you get seven seats, with two of them facing backwards, so your children can look at all the cars that can’t keep up. Facing forward though, you are bombarded with a screen the size of a small moon, slap bang in the middle like a humongous iPad. With its Apple-esque user interface, the Model S’s control center is the best in-car entertainment system you can get at the moment. But let’s get back to inspiration. You are looking at this car right now and thinking: ‘’It’s not so special’’. Truth is, the simplest ideas are the hardest to materialise. Before Elon Musk, nobody dared to even imagine the Model S, and that begs the question: Is this the greatest car ever made? Is it one that will go down in history as a pioneer of the future? I can’t tell. What I can tell you though, is that if the Model S was sushi, it would be Salmon Nigiri. If it was a song, it would be ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ by Pink Floyd. If it was not real, it would be in a sci-fi movie. And that is pretty much the highest praise I can give it. And if there is nothing to inspire you, just keep telling yourself that you are living the future. Enjoy it now!

Zero

THESE BRILLIANT LIFE-SIZE LEGOS

CAN BUILD A DISASTER SHELTER By Adele Peters

If toy Lego blocks make solid tiny forts, why not use giant plastic bricks to make actual buildings? EverBlock, a new system of modular building blocks, comes in brick-sized pieces that snap together to form coffee tables, couches, and even pop-up houses that can be built in hours during times of disaster. “We’ve all played with Legos, and we all love Legos,” says EverBlock founder Arnon Rosan. “But the reality is that it has a very specific niche use. I think for years people have asked how we can scale up this concept of modularity and universality of life-size objects. And that’s kind of where this idea started germinating. I said, what the heck, let’s make some tools.”

Rosan, a serial entrepreneur, started working on the blocks after leaving another startup. “My kids said to me, ‘Dad, you’re a builder, you like to build things, so why are you wasting your time on Internet stuff that isn’t real?’ It struck a chord. I like to build things and see something physical being created.” At a previous company, he’d worked on modular flooring for disaster relief in places like New Orleans after Katrina and Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. As he worked on the blocks, he realized that they had potential as more than just a novelty item or giant toy. A house built from plastic bricks is more secure than a tent in a disaster zone. “Tents typically have soft sidewalls, and they can easily be cut and entered,” he says. “If you’re storing relief supplies, having a solid structure is a really important thing.” When working in Haiti, he quickly realized

that bringing in full-sized trailers wasn’t an answer. “Even getting an airplane into Haiti was a real problem,” he says. “So imagine you had the ability to load up a plane with pallets of these and land that plane, and create an entire city for relief workers in a matter of hours.” A full building, with doors and windows, can be snapped together in about an hour by two people. And the buildings can easily be rearranged as needs change. Since the product launched in March, it’s mostly been used for temporar y event spaces and furniture. “We envision modular cities that can grow and reshape as needed to accommodate incoming and outgoing groups of varying sizes and roles—relief workers, victims, police, and administration,” Rosan says.

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THIS DESIGNER: LEEN SADDER A close-up with one of the speakers of the 2015

Nuqat Conference, The Copy/Paste Syndrome By bazaar staff

What is a designer? Merely a person who creates visions into objects or concepts for other people to enjoy? Or more formally, (and according to Webster’s Dictionary) one who creates and often executes plans for a project or structure, and in practice, anyone who creates tangible or intangible objects, such as consumer products, processes, laws, games and graphics, is referred to as a designer. Leen Sadder, a talented Lebanese designer with a resume filled with credits boasting in both the Middle East and the United States, defines herself with an effective simplicity that mirrors her crisp, low-key work: “I’m a designer and a problem solver.” Leen, who we are excited to hear speak at the upcoming Nuqat Conference, dishes that her design work ranges from branding, typography and hand-lettering to user experience, mobile and web design. Her most recent project, THIS Toothbrush, her personal startup consisting of a range of products that revive the miswak, (an ancient tool used of oral hygiene), will be a focal point in her role as a speaker at this year’s conference, as it ties in with the theme- The Copy/Paste Syndrome, and also ties in with her self proclaimed reputation as a problemsolving designer. “Even though my range is broad from a format perspective, I think the thread that ties it all together is my passion for creating solutions through design.” We at bazaar tracked down the current Dubai-based designer to gather her two cents on the idea of design, the theme of this year’s conference, and a sneak peek regarding the input she’ll share about her experiences as a designer. We’re also digging into her new star tup and her inspiration behind its impor tance.

What are some of your current projects you’re working on? I’m mostly dedicated to launching my startup, THIS Toothbrush- but I’ve also been giving design workshops, consulting, and continuing my freelance branding work. I’m also involved with AIGA Middle East, which I helped launch a few years ago. What are some of your notable past projects you’ve worked on? Most recently, I worked on the re-design of a website for one of the largest multinationals in the U.S. I’ve also developed branding for Manousheh, a Lebanese bakery and cafe in New York City, created an online platform for girls in Lebanon, designed a mobile e-commerce analytics app, and worked with various brands such as Dove and TedX. THIS Toothbrush is by far the most interesting and bizarre one so far. How do you feel about the theme of this year’s Nuqat conference? The Copy Paste Syndrome resonates with me quite a bit, especially having lived both in the Middle East and in the U.S. It’s a topic that spans across different industries but is most easily identifiable in design due to its visual nature. I think it’s crucial to create discourse around what it means to innovate versus imitate- especially in a world that is becoming more global and more uniform by the minute. How do you feel your project THIS Toothbrush has benefited/will benefit the Eastern and Western markets? The mission behind THIS Toothbrush is to celebrate a forgotten piece of culture by making it relevant to today’s markets, both Eastern and Western. THIS shares an ageold secret of ours with the rest of the world, and introduces it as a natural alternative to the common toothbrush. On the other hand, it also gives the miswak a chance of revival in parts of the world that are familiar with its religious and cultural significance, but have perhaps deemed it unworthy of preserving. Can you tell us a bit more about why you’ve reintroduced the classic miswak? The miswak not only has a rich story to tell in terms of culture and history, it also is highly beneficial to dental health as a natural alternative to modern methods of oral hygiene. When I first started learning about its medicinal benefits and origins, I was surprised to find that such a fascinating piece of knowledge had gotten lost through the generations. THIS was born out of a desire to bring the miswak to the 21st century and reintroduce it to the modern world. Since the theme for this year’s conference

highlights the Copy Paste Syndrome, would you consider your work as a positive copy of a past creation? It’s definitely something I’ve thought about quite a bit while working on THIS. Since the miswak is a natural product, I wouldn’t consider my work to be a copy of a creation, but rather an elevation of something that came before us. What we’re trying to do is to preserve a dying piece of heritage by telling its story in a language today’s world responds to. Whether it’s positive or not I’m yet to find out, but so far the response has been pretty great! What will you be focusing on as a speaker at the Nuqat conference? I’ll be looking at the Copy Paste syndrome from a cultural perspective by exploring the concepts

of preservation, imitation and innovation. I’ll also be looking at what role we as designers play in facilitating these concepts. Any words of encouragement to aspiring designers out there? Design is a superpower- the more you challenge and train it, the stronger it gets. Learn how to use it and you’ll be surprised to find out just how much you can do with it. Interested in design? Take the opportunity to hear Leen Sadder speak at this year’s Nuqat Conference taking place between November 12-18. For more information on Nuqat or to register, visit www.nuqat.me For more information on Leen Sadder, visit her website at www.leensadder.com.

BARBIE WANTS TO KILL YOUR IPHONE By Kevin Maney

Oddly enough, Pee-wee’s Playhouse from the 1980s was a prescient, if somewhat bonkers, vision of the technology that will eventually make smartphones passé. Give it about five years and your home could be like Pee-wee’s bachelor pad, where everything becomes a conversant, intelligent and connected friend—the chairs, floor, clock, globe, toys and some sort of quirky, ambulatory robot. The artificial intelligence technology to make this happen is emerging faster than you might think, coming from big companies such as Amazon and Google, the inventors of Siri and even the maker of Barbie dolls. The work is all pointed at a kind of fantasy that has floated around for ages, where our stuff comes alive and loves us. Pick your variant: the car in Knight Rider, the operating system in Her, the tea set in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. This goes far beyond the old saw about “smart homes” embedded with chips. This will make the things around us into some cross between a butler and a border collie. The technology is aimed at overtaking the smartphone. If responsive, connected technology is all around you, you won’t need to carry it in your pocket. And if anything you might need—a takeout order, music, the status of a friend—can be conjured by turning to, say, a lighting fixture and verbally asking for it, you won’t need to rely on a bunch of discreet apps that you have to poke with your finger. Once this butler-style AI hits the masses, it will replace smartphones the way Ernest Hemingway wrote

that one of his characters went bankrupt: “gradually, and then suddenly.” You can already buy early editions of the technology. The current devices are a step up the evolutionary ladder from phone-based Siri and Google Now. This year, Amazon came out with a product called Echo, a Wi-Fi-connected cylinder loaded with Amazon’s Siri-esque software, called Alexa. Put it in your house and it constantly listens for requests. While cooking for friends due to arrive any minute, your hands covered in olive oil, you can shout, “Alexa, I forgot to get the dessert! Order a couple of my favorite cakes to be delivered.” And it will do that. No phone required. A similar product is being offered by a startup called Cubic—except instead of a cylinder, Cubic is, you know, a cube. If you want a more adorable take on the technology, check out Jibo. It’s kind of like Echo or Cubic, except it has an eye-like thing that can turn to track your face and make cute expressions. It’s so manipulatively cute, it seems as if it just popped out of a Pixar movie. Jibo just got $11 million (KD 3.3 million) in funding. Also, this Christmas, you could buy your kid a Hello Barbie, which comes loaded with AI built by former Pixar people. Hello Barbie will get to know your kid and become her friend. Can you imagine, though, the opportunities for hackers? Barbie might suddenly say to little girls, “OK, now go get your mommy’s credit card...” Google, Microsoft and Facebook are all funding labs that are working on friendly and helpful AI technology. Recently, Chinese Internet giant Baidu got into the game. Well-funded Viv

Labs is stocked with many of the same people who developed Siri and sold it to Apple. All of the companies are chasing the concept of AI with a personality—friendly, familiar, helpful, intuitive. This direction especially makes sense for Google or Facebook because they already know so much about you. Studies have shown that software can analyze your Facebook activity and understand your personality. If someone uses Google’s panoply of products, Google will have a deep knowledge of that person’s daily life. Add a layer of sophisticated AI, great voice-recognition technology and software that takes advantage of research into the science of emotions, and it’s not a far leap for either of these companies to build technology that understands you and is aware of your circumstances, needs and desires. Every dominant technology eventually meets its match. Mainframes gave way to PCs; PCs gave way to smartphones; and while it may take a long time, smartphones will take a back seat to something else someday—maybe this. Of course, as with any new technology, there are concerns, privacy and security chief among them. There will be fits and starts and no doubt some disasters along the way. But none of that is going to stop friendly AI from coming. Anyway, if movies and TV shows are any indication, society has been wanting this technology for a long time, though maybe with a few exceptions. You should know that Cubic claims its AI can tell jokes. The world may not really be a better place if your smart toilet knows you and can fire off Don Rickles oneliners. “Oh my God, what did you eat last night? A hockey puck?”

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By Meg Miller

When we think about energy efficiency on the go, solar-powered gadgets are typically the first to jump to mind. Solar-powered lamps, digital cameras and phone chargers are all planet-friendly and functional. But a wind turbine? A bit tougher to lug around. Minnesota-based company Janulus shrunk the typically hulking energy generators into a por table version that’s small enough to take with you just about anywhere. Last year, Janulus successfully crowdfunded the first version of Trinity, and now it has returned to Kickstar ter with an entire series of compact turbines in var ying

sizes—the largest of which is said to be able to power a tiny home or an electric car. The blades of the turbine fold into a nifty cylinder shape for easy transpor t and come with a power inver ter, batteries, and controllers all built in. The larger ones can be set up outside your home and plugged directly into an outlet without requiring any additional wiring or electrical know-how. But the most ingenious addition is a new blade system that allows the turbine to be oriented both ver tically and horizontally— depending on wind speeds—allows the new version “to harness four times the amount of energy from the previous version and [makes] Trinity usable in more situations,” says Agust Agustsson, vice president of

Janulus. “The smaller versions are ver y lightweight and are perfect for camping and charging your gadgets.” Agusts s on s tar ted the company with his brothe r, E inar A gus ts s on, after they m ov ed f rom Iceland—a countr y r un c om pletely on renewable energ y—to the U . S . , where they were faced for the fir s t time with high electricity bills . They us ed 3 -D printin g to make countles s prototypes to test ear ly des igns , and feedback for the f ir st ver s ion of the product, which shipped to backer s las t month, has been positiv e. Still, it remains to be s een whether cons umer s will opt for a wind turbine set up over more dis crete s olar powered o ptions .

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THE PROTÉGÉS:

BUILDING GENERATIONS Inspirational individuals caring for our country By bazaar staff

It’s important to have a strong support system in your life, especially when you’re trying to figure out who you are. Whether it’s by our family, friends, or even our colleagues, as human beings, we need to feel like we’re part of a safe, nonjudgmental environment with people who wish us well. That’s why The Protégés is such an important program in Kuwait! The concept, started in 2010, offers a sixweek intensive experience for Kuwait’s young adults ranging between the ages of 16-24. During these six weeks, The Protégés embark a journey of life lessons that many people accumulate within thirty years of their lives! They learn about confidence, empathy, professionalism, and other character-building traits that aren’t always easy to obtain.

This character building program provides cultural and professional activities within six weeks, including Music Day, (a day for the group to celebrate their roots in traditional garb, enjoying cultural music with their families), interactive lectures on behavioral habits given by dedicated mentors, and a memorable group trip to Sweden and Denmark where they were not only exposed to adrenaline inducing situations, but moments of depth and trust that bounded and strengthened this generation’s bond and trust. In addition to their endless supportive nature and positive attitude, Generation 5 of the Protégés is also a philanthropic bunch! With their latest project in the works, the group has been vehemently working towards supplying reading material for the underprivileged. They’ve created a book-donating kiosk whimsically named Raqsh (a type of Arabic calligraphy). “Our plan is to start out with four scattered around Kuwait

(one will be in The Avenues). We’re designing an audio/visual interaction with a message to thank the donor to show them how their deed has impacted somebody positively, maybe by stating a statistical fact about whom they’re saving and why. It’s important- like saying ‘by donating this book, you just saved one underprivileged child from a lifetime of ignorance’. We also want to implement a personal touch to the kiosk, a voice thanking the donors in our Kuwaiti dialect- just to make it a little more relatable.” We had the pleasure of interviewing three Protégés of Generation 5 (or G5): Ahmed AlQallaf (University Graduate) Abdulaziz Al Ghannami (High School Student) and Rawan Aldhahi (Law Student). Upon meeting The Protégés, it’s safe to say that they have exceeded our expectations. This group of individuals is a breath of fresh air to Kuwait’s community, and if the three we’re speaking to is any indication,

we’re glad to see that each generation is only getting stronger. The Protégés as a program is also reminiscent of a gender-neutral, gooddoing and non-judgmental Sorority/Fraternity in Kuwait as all past and future Generations want to help each other succeed. This becomes evident as they keep insisting, “once you’re a Protégé, you’re a Protégé for life.” What inspired you to apply to be a part of The Proteges? Ahmed AlQallaf: First, I found the ad on Twitter, and the idea stuck with me, as I was about to graduate from university. Throughout this period, I was wondering what I wanted to do with my life, and also noticed things about myself that I wanted to improve and was inspired to change. I thought I would give this a chance, and figured if it didn’t work out, it was worth a try. Aziz Al Ghannami: To be honest, I was sitting in the car with my mother. She gives me her phone and says “look at this, apply, so you can change your personality.” I forgot about it for three months, and then when the deadline was approaching, I found the cutout on my desk. Rawan Aldhahi: I saw an ad on OSN three years ago, and it seemed different than the other youth programs offered in Kuwait. I also heard of it through past Protégés and it sounded like it would be a life-changing experience. When do you feel The Protégés program is challenging? Do you ever feel that its not challenging enough? AAQ: I didn’t really believe that I was going to turn into the person I am now. I wasn’t the best at focusing before this, but all the lectures and activities had inspired me to learn how to focus. AAG: The whole thing was challenging. The second you enter the interview; you feel a burst of challenge to get through each step. The whole thing is a step and it’s a transition. Every challenge you can feel in the span of 30 years is compressed into 6 weeks. The highlight of my challenge would be singing ABBA’s ‘I Have a Dream’ in public, in Sweden, in costume. RAD: One of my biggest fears is public speaking, and there was a session in Sweden where we had 7 minutes to prepare a 4-minute presentation. That day, I faced my fears without limits and gained so much support. What keeps you going in the program? AAQ: The fact that we were all in the same boat in terms of finding ourselves. AAG: Positive energy. Obviously there were tough moments, but you knew that no matter

what we worked towards, it would be okay. The whole experience broke away the barrier of embarrassment and introduced us to the wall of life. RAD: I liked that we never knew what we were going to do the next day. The mentors would give us a dress code and we would come in wearing what we were assigned- it kept the experience new and exciting. The people I met were amazing as well; I feel like I have a new family. What was the most valuable lesson are you learning from this program? AAQ: On a personal scale, I would dismiss the concept of time management. This program has changed that, and I’ve improved my time management skills. I’m also very good at seeing people’s points of view. It’s opened up my mind to the world.

AAG: Learning about impact and awarenessrealizing how people impact each other and being aware of your surroundings. RAD: Crossing my limits. You’re never going to know if you don’t try. Be yourself. Being in a community like The Protégés is the best place where you can discover yourself- people support and mentor you. If I have a dream, I know I can achieve it. I’m my only obstacle. What was the best moment you experienced in the program? AAQ: Every single memory I have in this program lights my day, even when it gets difficult. AAG: The public speaking session. You could see people changing in an instant- the quiet and reserved found their voices. You could see the change in every single person who stood up and spoke about something they were passionate about.

[continued...]

RAD: Once, when we visited Stockholm University, we had to discuss the ABBA project. We needed someone to manage the discussion of the project. When someone volunteered me, everyone was so supportive. They believed in me and knew I could take control. AAQ: All it takes to inspire somebody is supportive eye contact and a smile! Would you say that being a Protégé has impacted your life? AAQ: Definitely. I’m more encouraged to try different things and give things a chance. AAG: Yes. RAD: I learned how to look at situations from a different perspective. How do The Protégés help Kuwait grow as a nation? AAQ: If everyone does what The Protégés could do for Kuwait, it would be good. I think the impact has already started. AAG: It’s a butterfly effect. In ten years, there will be an extra 125 Protégés. These 250 people in Kuwait’s society would have spread the word in some way, and at least a bit of awareness, acceptance and appreciation would have rubbed off on society, creating a network of openness. RAD: I agree, as it’s never too late to change. Everyone has their own skills- everyone has

[continued...]

something to bring to the table. You don’t need to justify yourself to anybody or justify anybody’s actions. Would you recommend this program to a friend or family member? AAQ: Of course I do! Everybody: apply, apply apply!! AAG: Everyone needs to join! It’s not restricted just to age- I could impact society and so on, it’s a domino effect. RAD: Yes! Whenever I’m with anyone between 16-24 I encourage them to apply. What makes the perfect Protégé? AAQ: From what I’ve learned in the program, you need to see the good in everyone. I don’t want to put anyone in a box, but if I have to answer this question I’d say that you should have a positive attitude. AAG: Be you, because everyone else is taken. It’s about being yourself and that’s how the doors will open to you. You shouldn’t categorize anyone. RAD: Positive energy, a positive attitude, and no judgment. Be open to new experiences. What’s next after graduating from The Protégés program and how will you use what you’ve learned for your future? AAQ: The Protégés experience never ends, so I’ll always be a protégé. I’m hoping to find

my passion and live with it, and expand my horizons. AAG: It’s about giving back. The small scale is our project; the big scale is our collective impact. It’s about giving and taking. I’m willing to discover and I’m willing to make mistakes. RAD: When you become a protégé, you’re a protégé for life. We have an alumni gathering where all the generations meet together. It’s like a new chapter, but it isn’t the end. “The beginning of a lifetime of friendship and family” there is no end. Any words of wisdom for the next generation? AAQ: “It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right, I hope you have the time of your life.” AAG: You’re a seed- allow yourself to grow, and you’ll turn into a fruit. RAD: Open your minds and look at the world you’re living in. You have your whole life to change what you don’t like and achieve what you want to go for.

Are you 16-24 and want to be a G6 Protégé for life? Apply now for Summer 2016 at www.theproteges.org. Follow them on Instagram @theproteges and look them up on Facebook: The Proteges.

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BUMBLEBEES HAVE A NEW JOB:

DELIVERING ORGANIC PESTICIDES If you’re already out pollinating, why not just carry a little extra? By Adele Peters

The humble bumblebee might help disrupt the multi-billion dollar synthetic pesticide industry. A new system uses bees to help deliver natural pesticides and beneficial fungi directly to plants—and because bees are so much more precise than the typical sprayers on farms, they can use a tiny fraction of the pesticide and make plants stronger. “Imagine you have an apple orchard,” says Michael Collinson, president and CEO of Bee Vectoring Technology. “Because apple trees have a very large canopy, even though you may spray it and use a special type of spray that doesn’t go everywhere, you still won’t touch every bloom. Whereas the bees deliver product every single day, to every single bloom.” The new system, originally developed by researchers at the University of Guelph, uses a tray filled with a patented mix of natural, beneficial microbes. The tray goes in a beehive that farmers already have. When bees head out to pollinate crops—their main job—they walk through the powder on the way, and end up

delivering tiny helpful spores to flowers as they make their rounds. Because the bumblebees deliver the powder directly to plants, they also help avoid runoff, a common problem with traditional pesticides. Typically, pesticide is mixed with hundreds of gallons of water and then sprayed everywhere. “99 percent of that is going to end up in the wrong place,” he says. “One percent ends up where it’s supposed to be, but 99 percent end up in the water, on the ground or other non-targeted areas.” Normally, farmers can only spray once or twice while apple trees are in bloom, and because sets of trees bloom at different times, it’s easy to miss about half of the orchard. The bees can deliver their organic pesticide continuously, so fruit ends up stronger and more likely to make it to make it to the grocery store. This special mix of powders also includes beneficial fungi that helps eliminate common diseases like botrytis, which causes mold. “When you go and buy strawberries and you put them in your fridge and they go gray and fuzzy, that’s botrytis,” says Collinson. “If you use our product from the beginning, you control that disease, and therefore you stop the fruit from actually starting to decay a lot sooner. In some cases we can make ten to twelve days extra shelf life.”

The company has done years of testing to make sure the process is safe for bees. The materials in the powder are something that bees would naturally come across. “The bees are actually already carrying it, but they don’t carry it that often,” he says. “So what we’re doing as a company, what happens once in a while in nature, we’re making it happen consistently.” Because the process uses little product—and free labor from bees—it’s priced competitively with traditional pesticide. The company’s main target is conventional farms, even though they qualify for organic use as well. “We are extremely cost-effective, and more importantly, our product is extremely efficient at controlling the pathogens that are out there,” says Collinson. He sees the product as the beginning of a shift away from chemical pesticides. “We know that as the world population grows and we have to feed more and more people every day, the need for higher yields and higher quality in crops is paramount, and we’re certainly looking for nonchemical ways of doing that,” he says. “So we can find biological ways that work in concert with nature. I think that’s where most of the major chemical companies are starting to look, because it costs so much money to bring a new chemical to market.”

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LINKEDIN’S DISHONEST DESIGN

IS AN EXPENSIVE PROBLEM By John Brownlee

Anyone who has ever signed up, or even known anyone who has signed up for LinkedIn has probably found themselves on the receiving end of dozens of follow-up emails, inviting you to “expand your professional network.” Even worse, they’re virtually impossible to opt-out of. It’s a scummy use of dark UX patterns (a user interface that has been carefully crafted to trick users into doing things) by a company that should know better. Now, LinkedIn is going to be paying for it as part of a class-action lawsuit, to the tune of $13 million (KD 3.9 million). Presented in San Jose’s U.S. District Court, the key issue in Perkins v. LinkedIn is spam. Namely, during the user sign-up process, LinkedIn claims that it “will not store your password or email anyone without your 90

permission.” Despite this, LinkedIn sends automated follow-up email reminders on a new user’s behalf to any contacts harvested from their webmail accounts, which are presented in such a way as to appear as if they came directly from the user. Under California law, the sitting judge has deemed this illegal. Consequently, if you were a member of LinkedIn’s “add connection” program between September 2011 and October 2014, you can submit a claim to get a payout. The bad news is it probably won’t be for much. Each affected user is believed to only get about $10 (KD 3) as part of the class-action settlement. That number could have been higher—up to $750 (KD 225) per person if they’d proved LinkedIn’s actions caused mental anguish. Unfortunately, in its ruling, the court dismissed that provision.

Still, what this amounts to is a non-trivial penalty for a company using dark UX patterns to trick users into doing things they don’t really want to do. As www.darkpatterns.org, an excellent resource on these kinds of tactics, explains, this sort of bad design is purposeful. “They are not mistakes, they are carefully crafted with a solid understanding of human psychology, and they do not have the user’s interests in mind.” As social networks and other online products increasingly try to grow their users bases, it’s important to hold them accountable for their bad design, especially when that bad design is on purpose. Hopefully, this will serve as a warning to other companies who use shady tactics and dark UX patterns to artificially grow their products.

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KUWAIT

Expertly creating memories By bazaar staff

They don’t identify themselves as people who produce events, but as “Memory Creators” instead. “We don’t just offer rentals and equipment,” Sameh Omran, Managing Director of Philosophy explained, “We want to create memories no matter what your budget is.” Inspired by creativity, strategy duo CEO/Founder, Riham Al Ayyar and Sameh Omran agreed to pool their talents to galvanize the creative industries. Having mastered their crafts over the years, it was the next logical step - to offer a service that caters to creative solutions. Gurus in their respective fields, the duo have set out to change the face of events in Kuwait. Joined by creative harmony, Philosophy came about after extensive research and market surveys as a need to fill a gap in the market. “The image makes a brand loved, memorable, unique and preferred. We establish and nurture the brand’s image with catered creative solutions to further develop them”, Riham elaborated, “We partner with our clients in all phases of the marketing strategy; identifying the opportunity, target audience, positioning, personality and image as well as creating the communication messages.” “We wanted to find our own niche,” Sameh continued, “it became clear to us that the event companies here didn’t create, and we wanted to create.” Taking that urge to create to a whole new level, the duo decided to adopt

Sameh Omran their own philosophy - “and that was how we chose the name, Philosophy,” Riham smiled. As opposed to thinking outside the box, they agreed to diminish the box entirely and use the entire space as their “idea canvas.” With nothing to hold them back, they’ve taken events to a whole new level. “We don’t offer traditional event planning,” he continues, “Instead, we offer 360 marketing solutions.” Focusing on branding and adding value to their client’s marketing strategies, they aren’t afraid to create the most intricate of plans. Car model launches have been turned into theatrical performances portraying the battle between good and evil, video game releases no longer involve traditional competitions - but rather

bringing the game to life and letting the participants re-live their gaming personas – the sky’s the limit! They will do whatever they can to ensure that you don’t just have an event; you have a memorable brand, custom made for you. Simply put, their ethos is to provide you with a theme and concept tailored to your needs and image; and they manage the entire project from A to Z. Never repeating or recycling ideas, Philosophy strives to bring you the latest creation they can think up. “I research the international market to get inspiration,” Sameh explained. A constant process, they will do whatever it takes to find the right means for the brand they’re representing. Dedicated to what they do, Riham and Sameh’s collective

Riham Al Ayyar expertise will make any brand stand out from the crowd. By studying the field expansively, all their implementations come from a place of knowledge and a deep understanding of the market. Ranging from event managing to branding solutions and media relations, there’s nothing Philosophy doesn’t do. Anything related to the image, be it interior design ideas, attitude training for employees, guidelines creation everything is covered. Inquisitive by nature, they question everything during briefs to ensure that your brand is represented in the best light and according to your needs. Always to the point, Philosophy promises to be with you every step of the way – from conception to completion. Innovative and imaginative, there are no limits to their creations and they always

put your brand’s needs first. The memory creators behind Philosophy are brilliant in their respective fields. Clever and unique to the market, even their branding is distinctive! When it came to creating their own brand, they pulled out all the tricks from their hyperbolic hats. Upon meeting them, make sure you turn their business cards upside down you can still read Philosophy either way. Why you ask? Because they’re quirky! Sticking to the belief that change comes from within, their branding is a mirror to what they can create for you. Regardless of your budget, they take on the challenge to give you the most unforgettable experience. Following their recent successful events like the release of the game Call of Duty, GMC, and the new Honda showroom launch - we can’t wait to see what else they come up with! From

what we’ve heard, the unveiling of the new Honda showroom was off the hook! Received brilliantly by the attendees, it was an absolute hit. A force to be reckoned with, Riham and Sameh are just warming up and this event was a mere taste as to what they can, and will do. Taking Kuwait by storm, it’s only a matter of time before they shake up all the events in the region. After all, they don’t just “produce events and brands, [they] create memories.” If your brand needs a revamp, Philosophy is the team for y ou! Philosophy Events & 360 Solutions can be reached at 9600 0981. For more information about their ser vices and awesome events, email them at info@philosophymena.com.

GRAY MATTER’S ANATOMY By Steve Smith

Surgery on someone’s gray matter is a delicate operation to say the least. Since there is little space between the skull and the brain, it’s tough for a surgeon to get in between them to see what they’re doing. NASA might have a solution: It is developing a microscopic camera that will allow surgeons to peek inside your head, providing a better view of the intricacies of the tissue, and hopefully lead to more effective, safer procedures. The camera—code-named MARVEL, for MultiAngle Rear-Viewing Endoscopic Tool—is being developed in NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. It measures just 0.2 inches in diameter and about 0.6 inches long. MARVEL will be attached to an endoscope, a device that examines the interior of the body, that

has a bendable neck that can move left or right, with the ability to move in a 120-degree arc. To get MARVEL inside the patient’s head, a small incision is made in the eyebrow, then a tiny hole is cut in the skull through which the endoscope is fed. Besides being eminently manipulable, MARVEL comes with innovative 3-D photography tech. Traditionally, 3-D images are created the same way your eyes turn the world into three dimensions: Two lenses are placed side by side and take alternating pictures. MARVEL is able to generate 3-D images using two apertures that sit behind each other (this arrangement helps keep the camera tiny). At any given time, one aperture is open and receiving the image, while the other is closed; they alternate every millisecond. To create the 3-D image, the pictures from both apertures are merged. This is done in real time, at 60 frames per second. “With one of the world’s smallest 3-D

cameras, MARVEL is designed for minimally invasive brain surgery,” said Harish Manohara, principal investigator of the project at JPL, in a press release. When, for example, doctors need to excise a brain tumor or insert a deep brain stimulator to treat Parkinson’s disease, they currently rely on craniotomy, a procedure in which a surgeon removes a large part of the patient’s skull. Using MARVEL would allow surgeons to bypass the craniotomy—a highly expensive and dangerous procedure that requires a lengthy hospital stay. Right now, NASA only has a laboratory prototype; the next step is to meet the requirements of the Food and Drug Administration. So, it might be a while before the mini camera makes its way to your brain surgeon’s operating theater. Down the road, there’s another place MARVEL may end up: deep space. Imagine it attached to NASA’s next orbital robot, exploring brand-new worlds in stunning 3-D.

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‘KNOCK KNOCK’ AIMS TO BE ‘FATAL ATTRACTION’

By Brian Truitt

In the 1980s, the consequences of an illicit affair could involve a boiling bunny, according to cinema. But this is the 21st century, where one unfortunate Facebook photo can ruin a person’s life. So director Eli Roth needed his new psychological thriller Knock Knock (out this month) to hit home in a much bolder, more torturous fashion for its straying married man. “We always saw this as Fatal Attraction for the Millennial generation, where there is nothing private anymore,” Roth says. “Whatever you do, whatever transgressions are in your own home, are no longer in your own home. Because if someone had the mind to, they could just post it on social media and everyone in the world would see it forever.” If only rabbit stew was the worst thing Keanu Reeves’ character had to face. Inspired by 1977’s Death Game, Knock Knock casts the actor as Evan Webber, a seemingly goodhearted architect whose family is away for the weekend when he hears a knock at the door. Genesis (Lorenza Izzo, Roth’s wife) and Bel

(Ana de Armas) are two comely strangers who are dropped off at the wrong house, and Evan offers to help, be it getting them an Uber or drying their wet clothes. When they put the moves on him, Evan initially spurns their advances. But when he finally eventually gives in, it turns out that he failed the test spectacularly, and Genesis and Bel chase him with a gun, threaten to force him to come clean with his wife on FaceTime, and consider their own death penalty for his acts. “In the beginning, he’s the nice guy, but there’s something brewing underneath the unspoken dissatisfactions and frustrations,” Reeves says. And even though he insists that he really is a good guy despite his infidelity, “he’s in denial. He’s rationalizing everything.” Evan grows more angry at the situation, “and by the end, it’s almost like he’s been stripped down to the essence,” Roth says. “There’s been this caged animal inside of him that’s just been biting and growling to get out. The director has put youngsters through all sorts of horrors in his career, from the infected twentysomethings of Cabin Fever (2002), the unlucky backpackers of Hostel (2005) and the student activists who run into cannibals in The Green Inferno (in theaters now). But Knock

Knock reflects a 43-year-old filmmaker who has seen what his married friends have gone through on the way to divorce. “I try to write about what I know,” Roth says. “The threat of someone coming into your home and disrupting your life and unraveling everything you’ve worked so hard to build, especially when you’re the one who invited them in and the one who did it, is a very scary thought.” His vision allowed for an exploration of not only how people live their lives but also technology and social media, Reeves says. “He holds up a mirror to us and to Evan and to the girls. There’s lots to be entertained by and also lots to think about.” It’s one thing to have the potential life-altering consequences of computers and devices in the back of one’s mind. It’s another to watch it unfold in a visceral way on screen. “Look at the Ashley Madison hack,” Roth says. “That’s 37 million people who are unhappy in their relationships and looking for something outside of it, and they thought they were being private. It was easier for them to pay money to a service rather than confront that problem in a relationship, for whatever reason. But now you have their credit card information, their e-mails and all of their personal desires detailed, and there’s no putting that back in Pandora’s box.”

Regency

THE F.NAQI

INSTITUTE

Welcome to The Academy

By bazaar staff

Ladies, the struggle is real and you are not alone. We’ve all been there – getting ready for a night out and going through every trick on Pinterest, Instagram, and several YouTube tutorials to master that one makeup look. Yes, that no-makeup makeup look might be difficult – but we’ve all spent that extra hour trying to create the perfect eyeliner flick. That’s when we start looking for a place that can elevate our look for that special night out. This is where the F.Naqi Institute comes in – an incredibly chic hair and makeup salon in the heart of Salwa.

Headed by the institute’s namesake, Fatma Alnaqi had always wanted to create something different. “I like to enhance my client’s natural beauty,” she smiled. Her love affair with makeup started early on and runs deep in her veins. “I used to do everyone’s makeup,” Fatma laughed, “every time we had an event to attend, I was makeup artist to my closest friends and family.” Inspired by the world of beauty, Fatma attended beauty courses at Al Jothen – where she got her first diploma – and then Makeup Forever to get certified. Achieving exactly that, she decided not to stop there and keep going. Having taken the two certifications available in Kuwait, she set her sights on Europe. Going to Spain for a diploma and then London for more certifications – the Jemma Kidd beauty school, Beauty Bay Makeup School. “I was seeking art mentoring,” explained Fatma, “and I learned a lot from international makeup

artists.” Mixing and matching European with Arabic styles, Fatma has perfected her looks and found her calling – the natural look. While not everyone is a fan, she does cater to the masses, but still can’t do anything she doesn’t love one hundred percent. “Thankfully the whole contour look is going away,” she laughs, “now it’s slowly being replaced with my favorite, the natural J.Lo glow.” To her pleasant surprise, more and more people are requesting it. Always dedicated to giving her clients the best, every look she creates is unique and specifically tailored to her clients’ needs and look. A pioneer, Fatma was the first to introduce the airbrushed foundation technique in 2008. Taking us forward to present day, Fatma believes that one should always pursue their passion. Eager to give back, she’s now introduced the F.Naqi Academy. “It’s always been my aspiration,” she explained. Starting an

academy to help people master the art of makeup artistry was her ultimate goal. Wanting to give people the same opportunities she once enjoyed, she’s bringing in internationally renowned makeup artists for her the master-classes. Having found her dream-team, she wants to share that with the students. “I’m giving them the opportunity to create a portfolio with professional photographs and all,” she explained, “to either start their own business or simply expand on their passion.” Open to everyone that has even the simplest curiosity towards makeup, the F.Naqi Academy is here to guide you through your newly chosen path. They also offer one-on-one bespoke tutoring if you’re interested – catered solely to your personal requirements! You receive a certificate upon completing a course – which can range from five days to a full six weeks. With a perk dubbed rightfully as the London Experience, students will be invited on an all-

expenses-paid, five-day intensive trip to London during their fourth of the six-week International Makeup Course! This course promises to give them an incredibly unique experience where students get a photo shoot at the end to show off their portfolio upon returning plus many other benefits. With bridal courses and red carpet courses – five days each – you will be able to recreate incredible looks that you can take as a complete set or on their own. While many people find themselves in need of traveling to get these experiences, the F.Naqi Academy brings you the greatest the makeup world has to offer right here in Kuwait! You’ll never be at a loss with the F.Naqi Academy – with international makeup artists mentoring you all the way, the experience you would gain is amazing. With exclusive discounts at participating retailers and, if you enrol in the International Makeup Course, a complimentary

brush kit – you’ll be ready to face anything with your best face forward. Find your niche and perfect your technique, the F.Naqi Academy will guide you through the entire process. We know we’ll be trying to find the time to enrol in the Bespoke Course – we’re in need of streamlining our makeup routine for that extra special night out! Perfect eyeliner flick sans a piece of tape – here we come! Get excited and pursue your dream in makeup artistry! Or simply refresh your skills or learn some new tips and tricks! Whichever one you choose, make sure you check out The F.Naqi Academy to learn from the best in the business. Visit their website for more information or to book online, at www.fninstitute.com or follow them on Instagram @FNInstitute and Facebook: FN.Institute. Call them on 2566 9624 for bookings and information.

DROPPED YOUR IPHONE IN WATER? FORGET THE RICE. By Charlie Sorrel

“Can rice actually save your wet phone?” asks the Verge. The answer, which will be obvious to anyone who gives it a moment of thought, is “no.” After all, if rice could suck the water vapor out of your wet phone, then it would also suck it out of the air while it sat in your kitchen, and that bag of rice would be a sodden lump. This might sound like bad news. Reviving dead gadgets is better than buying new ones, but all is not lost. Your phone can still be rescued from a dunk—it’s just that rice won’t help. The author of the Verge piece, Michael Zelenko, traces the folksy old-wives tale back to a 1946 issue of Popular Photography. Readers planning a photographic expedition to the tropics are advised to keep their equipment “in a sealed container with some dr ying agent such as silica gel.” “As a temporar y expedient, par ticularly for storing exposed films before processing,” the ar ticle continues, “tea, rice and brown paper have been recommended. Their 100

moisture capacity is so low, however, that ver y large quantities are required to produce a substantial effect.” Note that this advice is aimed at preventing the ingress of humidity, not drawing out liquid water from a sodden gadget. So how does rice perform as a rescuer of gadgets? Gazelle, the gadget reuse and recycling company, did an experiment to find out, performing two tests: Test 1: They deliberately drowned nine smar tphones and then attempted to revive each. (They then appropriately recycled the phones.) Test 2: They compared 7 common materials to see which is really the king of all cures for water damage. The dr ying agents used were as follows: Cat litter, couscous, rolled oatmeal, instant oatmeal, instant rice, silica gel (in the form of cr ystal cat litter), and uncooked rice. Each material was tested to see which could absorb most water from a household sponge. Rice came dead last. “Dr y, uncooked conventional rice was the worst of the seven options we tested. It absorbed the least water in 24 hours,” say the testers.

Even the control sponge, left on a shelf for the duration of the experiment, dried faster than the one in rice. “But it seems that leaving your phone on a shelf may be the best option,” conclude the testers. So there (more or less conclusively) we have it. Rice doesn’t dr y out phones. Just leave them in a warm, dr y place. There is good news though. Gazelle’s other test found that most phones can be revived. The trick is to pull out the batter y as soon as possible, then be patient. The phone will dr y eventually. Interestingly, the iPhones in the test appeared better sealed than the Samsung handsets, buying them extra time before they drowned. But the extra seals and tightly-packed interior meant that dr ying was much slower, trapping water inside the iPhones and preventing revival. By contrast, all the Samsung phones died almost immediately, but all were later resuscitated. So while rice does absolutely nothing to help, that doesn’t mean you have to buy a new phone if yours takes a dip. And who knows, maybe a few days without Twitter and email will do you some good?

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FILLING IN THE BLANKS ON MENTAL ILLNESS Coloring-in books make an adult comeback By Lili Barras-Hargan

On 10th October, people across the world celebrated World Mental Health day by sharing their stories and shedding light on an often obscured topic of conversation. In Kuwait, over 200,000 people were diagnosed with depression in 2014 and this figure is steadily rising. Nevertheless, there are a number of options available, from counseling sessions with a psychiatrist to more practical activities like the recent adult coloring trend. Children’s creativity and imagination are awoken through tasks such as coloringin, drawing and painting. However, these activities are also encouraged in children who struggle to focus or communicate with others because they are provided with a creative outlet. It also helps them learn patience and grow in confidence through pride in their work and recognition by others. Therapists often assess a child client through allowing them to draw or color in. The colors they choose, as well as the way they fill in the spaces is simply one method through which their emotions and state of mind can be examined. A specific color pattern may suggest an advanced understanding of different hues whereas an erratic scribble could indicate stress or frustration. In the past five years, coloring books have been rebranded, leaving behind their childhood origins and entering the adult sphere. While there are free, printable pages available online, adult coloring books are flying off the shelves in leading book retailers. On Amazon Books, Adult Coloring Book: Stress Relieving Patterns features as number ten on 102

the Top 100 Books list and number one on the Crafts & Hobbies Book list. Often, adults suffering from mental illness feel isolated from other people and struggle to convey their thoughts to those around them. Although there may not be time for them to engage in a creative activity such as painting or sculpture, the foundations of this form of art have already been established and simply need to be filled in. As well as helping people unwind, the same mental and physical benefits of childhood coloring apply to adults. Although we are developed individuals with refined motor skills and hand-eye coordination, these can be improved throughout our lives and there are countless mental benefits. Another popular option involves coloring-in clubs, which provide people with an unintimidating way of connecting with other people in a similar situation. In a world where mental illness has been labeled as something to be ashamed of, initiating a conversation about it can be incredibly difficult. By placing the focus on the act of coloring in, the daunting conversation becomes secondary to a practical activity. This has proven particularly successful in the treatment of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, who often struggle to maintain eye-contact or focus on a direct conversation over a prolonged period. In a world of traffic, deadlines and social media, it is immensely beneficial to take a moment away from the constant speed of things, as well as the addictive screens that crowd our lives. A detailed page can take up to an hour to neatly color in, in which time your respiration and heartbeat slow down, reducing anxiety and stress. A similar process is involved in the act of meditation or yoga,

which has become another popular option for those living with a mental illness. One of the most detrimental aspects of having a mental illness in our day and age is the response those affected are met with. There is a warped view of mental illness in our day and age and although not as prevalent now, it has been considered a taboo topic of conversation throughout history. As a consequence, people are silenced and their conditions physically hidden or - more recently - trivialized. One feasible reason for this lack of empathy or compassion is the damaging social stigma attached to mental illness as a whole. Due to harmful messages perpetuated through the media, those that identify as something other than neurotic stereotype are ill-represented. Mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often dismissed, simply because they are intangible. The fact remains that those with the flu or a broken bone need not convince those around them of the severity of their condition. As much as it may not seem the case, massive progress is being made in the shattering of social stigma attached to mental illness. People are sharing their experiences and – as a consequence - are not only shedding light on mental illness but destroying the social stigma attached to it. The best way to bring mental illness into society’s line of vision is by opening up a safe space for its discussion. If more visibility is given to those with mental illnesses, the misconstrued stereotype will eventually be shattered. However, until this is achieved, mitigating solutions are the next best step.

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bazaar music ’Nobody loves me but my mother, and she could be jivin', too’’ - BB King

DAMN COUNTRY MUSIC

GET WEIRD

DELIRIUM

By Tim McGraw

By Little Mix

By Elie Goulding

“When I recorded Damn Country Music it was one of those electric moments,” McGraw says of the title track. He wasn’t wrong. The first single from the album, “Top of the World,” got an otherworldly send-off when McGraw introduced it by beaming the tune to the astronauts aboard the International Space Station. The well-traveled tune is already in the Top 30 at country radio. Also of note are “Here Tonight,” the LP’s lead-off track which features an appearance from McGraw’s oldest daughter, Gracie, and “California,” which includes country hitmakers Big & Rich.

For fans of blatant pop music, be excited! Get Weird is the upcoming third studio album by British girl group Little Mix. At the 2015 Brit Awards, the group confirmed that their album was completed, describing it as having a “whole new sound” and projecting the release for some time in the same year. That time is now, with the album out this month. The girls have a UK tour coming up in March 2016 to promote the album. “This one is full on pop,” Perrie said. “It’s so colorful, so fun personality driven, a bit of ’80s.”

Delirium is Elie Goulding’s third studio album, due for release this month. Goulding has stated that the sound of the album will be more pop oriented than her previous releases. Speaking in an interview, she said: “A part of me views this album as an experiment, to make a big pop album; I made a conscious decision that I wanted it to be on another level.’’ This is her first album release since 2012’s Halcyon, and she has some big names featuring, such as Max Martin, Greg Kurstin, One Republic’s Ryan Tedder, Klas Ahlund and Disclosure’s Guy Lawrence.

THE CUTTING EDGE 1965-1966

NOTHING

By Bob Dylan

By Kode9

By Norman Westberg

In this ever growing collection (this is the twelfth release in the series), you can expect more early demos, alternative versions and outtakes of Bob Dylans vast and eclectic back catalogue. Expected highlights include Bob’s early attempt at a plugged-in version of “Mr. Tambourine Man,” months prior to the Byrds crafted a breakout hit with it. A take on “Visions of Johanna” includes alternate lyrics. And the whirlwind sessions for “Like a Rolling Stone” are comprehensively explored. The Cutting Edge 1965-1966: Vol. 12 will be available in three different editions: an economical two-disc size, an expanded six-disc version and a massive 18-disc package.

Kode9’s new album Nothing is out this month and has been described as “obsessed with zeros, “throwing horror soundtracks, sampled library records, and J-pop into a no mans land between grime, early dubstep and Chicago footwork.” Kode9, otherwise known as Steve Goodman, is a Glasgow-born, London-based electronic music artist and DJ. Widely credited as one of the early dubstep pioneers, he says that this, his first solo album, “ explores a post-scarcity world in which the only thing in short supply is humans. The performance guides the audience on a firstperson tour through the uncanny architecture of the world’’ Deep!

Guitarist Norman Westberg has been with Swans since the band’s 1983 album Filth. From appearances in film works associated with the Cinema Of Transgression, through to his participation in bands such as The Heroine Sheiks and Five Dollar Priest, Westberg’s name is woven deeply into the fabric of New York over the past three decades. In November, he’ll release a new album, titled 13, for Lawrence English’s label Room40. Westberg recorded 13 in 2013, and it had been available previously in a handmade edition of only 75 copies. The album’s since been remastered and edited.

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Taal

INTERNATIONAL

OPTIQUE(ANS) A family’s affair with optometry in Kuwait

By bazaar staff

When it comes to your eyesight, no form of interaction could ever compete with the invaluable relationship one shares with their optometrist. At International Optique, your relationship with any of their dedicated optometrists and staff members goes beyond the typical experience. A family-run business since 1978, expect to have a personal and lifelong relationship here, where your optometrists will go the extra mile to ensure that all of your visual and audiological needs are taken care of. 106

Founded by German optometrist, Rolf K. Habig and his Austrian colleague Ulrich Angerer in 1978 and in collaboration with Mohammed Al Bisher and Ahmed Al Mishari, what began as a small opticians shop in downtown Kuwait has evolved into a truly international company. Today, the Habig family, along with their team of expert employees, can be found doing what they love the most, helping people improve the quality of their day to day visual experiences. Sisters April, Alexi and Erika Habig are carrying on their father’s legacy, and with an awesome liege of qualified optometrists and sales assistants, they make a trip to the opticians a breeze. They work hard, they laugh, they research the best options for their customers, and most importantly, they love working together as a family. For the Habig sisters, frequenting the family’s old shop in Salmiya was only a natural occurrence when they were kids. Erika says, “We would help out and organize files. We would try out the products and play around with fun colored contact lenses. It was fun! With time, our awareness grew, and it was a natural decision for all of us to be a part of this business. I am blessed with the opportunity of being with family, while having a career that revolves around helping people.”

The Habig sisters are in tune with the technical, traditional and modern aspects of optometry. Alexi adds, “I get so much satisfaction out of making special repairs, as well as selling glasses or contact lenses to our customers. Every aspect is challenging in its own way.” Today, the International Optique flagship store at Salmiya’s Central Plaza boasts a 1500m² practice space. Alongside the main showroom, this location includes the Kids Optical Boutique, Contact Lens and Keratoconus Center, Hearing Care Center, Low Vision Department and The Gallery. The state-of-the-art optical laboratory is located onsite, allowing fast and efficient service using advanced technology from Japan, Italy and the United States. Not only so, International Optique has 4 branches located around Kuwait. When leisurely browsing through the various departments at their flagship store in Central Plaza, you will see everyone working together. Alexi and Mr. Hussam, who has become a part of the family through his dedication to the company throughout the years, could be found fiddling around in the lab, and also expertly advising customers about which optical solutions would suit them best. While the Habig family agrees on the notion

that success in their respective field comes from quality services, product variety and pioneering techniques, April also believes that being a family business matters. “As optometrists, we are all involved in the day to day operation of the business. We do all the eye tests, as well as dispensing.” What is also unique to us is that our staff members choose to stay with us for a long time. It’s the opposite of a stiff corporate culture. For instance, we are so happy that Mr. Hussam’s daughter, Leena, will join in the audiology department.” Alexi reiterates her sister’s notion, adding that “It is not only the services that we offer, but it is also the way that we take care of our customers.” For Mr. Hussam, he feels that their team’s strength comes from every member’s desire to take on challenges. He says, “We are able to handle challenging prescriptions and solving some of the client’s more complicated optical issues.” For Erika, being able to help people with optical or hearing issues is key to the business’s success story. “The variety of ways in which we are able to help is incredible. From hearing aids, sports glasses and even swimming goggles, we won’t stop until we find a solution. You don’t

usually find our services, and the knowledge about these products, coupled with being able to advise the clients while still offering the latest products, in one place.” A visit to the flagship store is a leisurely experience. The Kids Optical Boutique is a joy for the little ones, as it is common now for children to at least own one pair of protective glasses. April explains, “We love the space for the kids, as they get to come into their own and all of their fears around wearing optical glasses are dispelled. It’s quite a confidence booster for a child when they know they look good!” Staying updated about their customers’ highly evolving tastes plays a huge role in their operation, and the main gallery at International Optique will leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting your pair of glasses. Whether you desire boutique, niche brands from different parts of the world, or if you prefer a luxurious finish to your favorite pair of reading glasses, you are never at a loss of options. April adds, “We know our customers, and we recognize their tastes during our buying trips at various optical exhibitions. That’s a confidence booster for us, that we share such a special relationship with our customers.” Functioning in a tech-driven era is always

a challenge. For optometry visits however, a personal touch makes for a more positive experience. April explains that at the height of the digital trend, there was a boom of customers who went online. Soon enough, customers began returning to the flagship store, as people notice the difference between a digital browse versus a face-to-face experience with a professional. Lucky for you, if there is a pair of glasses that you like online, but would like it to be tailored to your needs, the experts at International Optique can order them for you, and give you that extra step of making sure that they fit to perfection. In looking to the future, International Optique is looking to expand the hearing aid center under the supervision of Mr. Hussam, as the services that are currently available in Kuwait are not up to par with international standards. The experts at International Optique are also working on a completely new concept for optics, which will be unveiled in the near future. The Flagship showroom for International Optique is located in Salmiya’s Central Plaza on Salem Al Mubarak Street. Please call 2571 4007 or visit www.intoptic.com for more information. Follow International Optique on Instagram @IntOptique.

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Falk

ken

OMAR HOSNCOACH TO

THE SPIRIT, MIND AND BODY

Providing inspiration to corporations worldwide

By bazaar staff

Are you a part of a company or own a business and just don’t know why it isn’t succeeding the way you expect it? Do you feel unfulfilled in the work place and on the verge of giving up? Enter Omar Hosn; the region’s very own “Rescue Ranger!” Though he doesn’t do any physical rescuing, he wants to help you get out of your rut and he happens to be living and practicing right here in Kuwait. The wonderful thing about Omar is his honesty and acceptance of every individual’s uniqueness and his belief in the positivity and passion in whatever you do. Though he insists that he’s “no superhero but just an ordinary guy,” this truly inspirational Lebanese family man has partnered and worked with speakers and gurus like Bob Proctor and John C. Maxwell. “My mission is to help people understand how to think through their own habits in order to transform results

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globally, unleash their full potential, realize their leadership capacity and create a happier, more balanced life,” stated Omar. Though his business mainly focuses towards corporate clients and groups, the self-proclaimed problem solver broadcasts his words via social media, radio, and television, because he genuinely wants to help. “I don’t judge anybody. I don’t care if someone is rich, poor, black, white, purple, yellow, or practicing whatever faith. I recognize that we are all human beings who are capable of greatness, and that’s a beautiful thing.” It becomes evident as you speak to Omar that accepting and helping people really is his passion. The public speaker uses his methods even in interviews, maintaining positive body language and relatable eye contact as he colorfully shares his amazing life views and dishes on how to find your happiness. Would you call yourself a life coach? It isn’t exactly life coaching, but I believe that everything is part of life coaching. If you want to coach someone to find success in a certain area of life, you have to teach him or her how to

balance his or her lives. For example, imagine life as a pie chart or a wheel and divide it into the major aspects that effect you: career, relationships, health, money etc.; and it acts as a turning wheel. If one part of that wheel is off or unsatisfactory, then the journey will be uncomfortable. What my consultancy business offers is leadership and sales coaching- which is similar to life coaching, but its more into taking people towards a certain career path, helping them to achieve better results, guiding them through- but not giving them advice or telling them what to do. What inspired you towards this career path? 2004 was a dark time for me. Though I was doing well at work, I felt that I could be doing better. One day, while watching Oprah, Rhonda Byrne, the author of The Secret was a guest on the show discussing her book. That day, with only KD 21 in my bank account, I went to Virgin to purchase the book and CD for KD 19. 25 days later, I had signed a contract and moved from being a salesperson to a GM, my salary multiplied by five and my life began to change.

Then in 2010, I gave it all up to go to Lebanon and open my own business- the business we now all know as Spirit, Mind and Body Coaching and Consultancy. What is the greatest achievement in having a job such as this one? There are many achievements, and they’re all great, but to me, my greatest personal achievement is how I’ve managed to turn my life around. Growing up in Lebanon during the civil war, I faced many hardships. I’m lucky and maybe I’m getting more than I deserve, but I’ve come a very long way. Another great achievement is how I’m getting my word out. I’ve recently signed with mbc.net to host twominute webisodes that send out positive messages to battle daily struggles of life, such as time management and anger management. I feel that the webisodes as well as my 8-9 AM segment on the 99.7 FM Breakfast Show are ways for me to share my life-changing ideas with everybody. I want the public to hear what I have to say and to utilize these words to find the change they are capable of.

Any success stories? I have coached some good friends and helped them change their lives, and many others who have seen improvement in sales and their careers. I believe that the testimony comes from people you’ve worked with, not from yourself. My success stories only involve influencing people in a positive way. Does it ever get challenging? Helping people change their attitudes is a challenge in itself. It’s human instinct to make excuses for yourself to put off finding your happiness and potential by saying “I was too tired” or “I had to eat”- to that I say, what’s more important; eating today, or living tomorrow? There is only one corner in the universe you are certain to improve, it’s yourself, and you can’t help somebody unless they want to help themselves. And what in your opinion is the secret to success? There isn’t only one key to success- it’s impossible. If there were one key to success, everybody would be successful. Until you

figure out every aspect of your life and find true happiness and content, then you will be successful. Do you exclusively practice in Kuwait? Though I am based in the Middle East, I still have clients all over the world through Skype and online correspondence. Since I’m part of an international partnership with Bob Proctor and John C. Maxwell, I’m not exclusively local - but I feel like I’m needed here in the Middle East. Why would I relocate? The West may think they need me, but there are other greats who are located there and willing to help. Do what you do best where you do it best. Any encouraging words you have to our readers? It doesn’t matter what you’re passionate about, but just start it. The moment you start, you’ll see the second step. It’s not about creating a living; it’s about creating a life. Follow Omar Hosn on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @omarahosn, and visit his website at www.johncmaxwellgroup.com/omarhosn.

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N’STYLE By bazaar staff

Adulting is hard at times; it’s a reality we all need to embrace. And there are times when we’re all stressed and slightly disheveled but as reality would have it, we can’t just take an extended leave to unwind whenever we want. So instead, we opt for little mini-breaks that are about an hour or two long. Enter our favorite bimonthly activity at our favorite nail lounge the sacred mani/pedi at N’Style. While many might view this as vain, we at bazaar view it as a retreat with a treat. Let’s face it, it’s a chance to let yourself be pampered and you walk out of there with prettier looking nails. Let me tell you about my last visit and what it entailed - level of pampering: Superstar. As my nails click away at the keyboard, I’m plotting my next appointment and anxiously counting down the days till my next hour of Zen. They don’t just offer a regular mani/pedi, their latest additions epitomize relaxation. Serenity and calm exude from this place as you walk in. Check out their extensive collection of nail polish and take your pick. Given the option of choosing mani/ pedi treatments was a lot of fun. Not a stranger to 112

Pampering is just the beginning

their incredible treatments – I’m a total addict to their Brazilian mani/pedi – I decided to go for two I haven’t tried before: an almond treatment for my hands, and their specialized Amber treatment for my feet. The air around me was misted with a light, floral scent – which I learned was part of my super special amber treatment. As opposed to the usual fizz bomb, I was treated to a detoxifying amber crystal soak. While I relaxed and let the day’s stresses melt away, I was being treated to a regular manicure while my feet gloriously soaked in the amazing detoxifying amber concoction. With my nails clipped, buffed and glorious, the actual treatments began. My hands were treated to a lightly almond scented scrub followed by an intense moisturizer. After a healthy helping of almond oil enriched moisturizer covering my hands I put on some heated mittens, sat back and enjoyed a much needed shoulder and neck massage. When the mittens came off, I was surprised with the result – baby soft skin. As for my feet, once the pedicure that came after the soak was done, I was treated to a wonderful smoothing scrub. With that rinsed off, and my feet

diligently moisturized, the amber massage began. An energizing and clarifying stone, the amber is known for its wonderful properties. The massage is done by means of the stone delicately, yet firmly, rolled over the pressure points on the feet. Pure bliss. Once the massage was completed, my feet and calves were covered with more moisturizer and wrapped in clear wrap before a hot towel was placed over them. I was left to relax for a little while, and also treated to a warming cup of green tea before I was unwrapped and yet again, polished. I was then left to finish my cup in peace while flipping through copies of my favorite magazines. Needless to say, I walked away feeling absolutely relaxed and pampered – the perfect end to a long day.

Experience a true pampering session by the lovely technicians at N’Style by calling them at 2571 9050 or WhatsApp them on 9724 0087 to set your next appointment. N’Style is located on the top floor of Al-Bustan Mall. Follow them on Instagram @nstylekw for the latest treatments, colors, and techniques.

Sultan Center Catering

big boys toys Because grown men still need to play

H1969 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS L78

MOON-WORN BULOVA CHRONOGRAPH WATCH

X2 SPORT UNDERWATER JET PACK

A rarity on showroom floors upon its release, this 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS L78 is even more desirable today. The little-ordered L78 included a 375hp V8 engine, a Turbo HydraMatic three-speed automatic, and a heavy-duty suspension with a rear stabilizer bar, giving it terrific performance without the added cost of the aluminum-headed L89. This particular example was fully restored just two years ago, and has a pristine black interior with SS-specific factory gauges and Strato bucket seats. Limited then and even more so now, and for obvious reason.

It’s not just like another watch that was worn on the moon. It’s actually been there. This MoonWorn Bulova Chronograph Watch belonged to Commander Dave Scott, and is the only privatelyowned timepiece to have experienced the conditions on the lunar surface. The watch itself has a black tachometer bezel, with triple sub-dials and an oversized velcro nylon strap for fitting over your space suit. Keep it on display in your home, or wear it proudly to keep track of things way less important than if you’ll run out of oxygen or when you need to leave to catch your ride back to earth.

You can’t fly like Superman through the air. But you can get pretty close beneath the waves with the X2 Sport Underwater Jet Pack. It uses two thrusters, one mounted on each arm, to propel you through the water at speeds of up to 6mph and depths of up to 30 feet, while a backpack provides the power. The attached analog throttle grip makes it easy to control, and it can run for up to an hour on a single charge, or way longer than you can hold your breath. You will feel like Iron Mans aquatic cousin, which can only be a good feeling.

HONDA GROM SCRAMBLERS

RED RAVEN CAMERA

GLOWFORGE 3D LASER PRINTER

They’re just concepts for now — but we’re not the only ones hoping these Honda Grom Scramblers become production machines in the near future. Combining the pint-size power and beginner-friendly ride of the Grom with the versatility of a scrambler, these bikes are powered by 50cc engines, and designed for one thing and one thing only: fun. The retrostyled Concept One comes finished in a silver and black race-style livery, while the Concept Two offers a green, black, and tan color scheme with a (slightly) more modern design.

The company’s smallest, most affordable body yet, the Red Raven Camera is still highly capable, thanks to an 8.8 megapixel Red Dragon sensor that lets it record raw 4K video at 120 fps or 2K video at 240 fps. It weighs just 3.5 lbs., uses the company’s signature modular design to let you easily swap out accessories as needed, and the integrated Canon EF mount means you have access to a huge family of lenses suitable for nearly any shooting situation. Cosmetically, this thing is a work of art, but it comes at a hefty price.

Able to adapt automatically to a variety of materials, the Glowforge 3D Laser Printer is as easy to use as it is versatile. Thanks to a pair of on-board cameras, the machine can automatically recognize both the material it’s working with and its thickness, and gives you the ability to actually see the placement of your design before you begin. It can also cut and engrave directly over a drawing, letting you create new designs with nothing more than a pen, works with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android, with the ability to print directly from apps like Photoshop and Illustrator.

www.blessthisstuff.com www.uncrate.com 114

Mcdonalds

MOTORCYCLING IN THE LAND OF HIGH PASSESâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;LADAKH

By Waleed Shaalan and bazaar staff

iving in Kuwait has made it so much easier for me to pursue my passion for motorcycle travel. I bought my first big bike in Kuwait back in 1998, and began my slow but beautiful journey of riding around the world. From my early trips of putting the bike on a ferry to tour Iran, to my drives across the Middle Eastern region, to flying my bike out to Europe and the rest of the world. Throughout all of these trips, the support I receive from my friends at Tri Star Motorcycles is phenomenal. After celebrating my 50th birthday, I decided to take my travels furtherâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I wanted to share my experiences with a broader audience through social and print media.

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Last September, I was on the verge of signing with a major Satellite TV station in the hopes of creating a travel documentary series based on my travels, and after taking two months leave from work they abruptly cancelled. Disappointed at first, I soon realized that it was a blessing in disguise. I took matters into my own hands and produced it myself. 48 hours later, I arranged an epic journey across the Indian Himalayas in Ladakh, Jamu and Kashmir to ride the world’s highest highway to create a film documentary. Moreover I garnered the support of an awardwinning director and with his expertise, a documentary was under process. I gathered all of the equipment I could source, from my personal camera, my son’s Go Pro to a collection of iPhones. We decided to sponsor my friend Ebrahim Al Kandari’s initiative iDream Kuwait, where he is training Kuwaitis with disabilities to work in the private sector. After arranging a meeting with our CEO and securing support on a corporate level, I am personally dedicating this film to support and raise awareness for his cause. The Motorcycle is the perfect solution for my desire to fly while avoiding my fear of heights, I chose India and specifically Ladakh, which means the land of high passes, so that I could ride the world’s highest road and soar like an eagle without having to fly. We had to deal with the reality of altitude sickness and take it very seriously, as the sudden ascent from living at sea level in Kuwait to starting our journey over 3,500 meters required gradual acclimatization and precautions. In our situation, time was off the essence. I prepared a full support vehicle with spare parts, oxygen tanks, and a mechanic, with the support of an incredibly helpful multicultural crew to reduce the risk especially for my wife who had decided to join me on this journey. We were very fortunate to arrive at Leh during their annual festival (20th-26th of September). Throughout most of the year, this region is usually closed off by snow. September in Ladakh represents a time when the locals go out and celebrate, from traditional sports like archery and polo to music, food, and famous monastic dances in the monasteries using ritual instruments—it was truly a rare and beautiful sight to experience. A STURDY MULE The Royal Enfield, my main source of transport for this trip, worked like a sturdy mule—it never gave up. Built originally for World War II, the company decided to open in India and was later bought by the locals. I was astonished to learn that they still build the bike the same way they did during the war era, no additional innovations or technology, no thrills or fancy bells and whistles. The 1 cylinder 500 cc impressed me so much as we drove it across every possible terrain one could imagine. The bike endured a harrowing cocktail of black ice, fresh snow, mud, sleet, rock, gravel, and sand.

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ACCLIMATIZING IN LADAKH Our first bike run totaled 150 km around Leh and allowed us to explore the esoteric palatial Hemis monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery founded in 1672. The monastery represents traditional Tibetan architecture; the building is load bearing structurally and crafted from local stones. The walls are extremely thick to provide insulation from the cold winters, and what is most remarkable is the fact that this monastery is known for a festival that takes place every twelve years. I imagined the huge courtyard enveloping the monastery alive with music and local monastic dances, and hoped to witness it one day. The structure also brought to my mind a striking similarity between old Kuwaiti architecture and the palace grounds, as they both shared common elements such as the courtyard, the wooden columns, roof structures, and particularly the articulation of columns. While the columns at Hemis were more colorful, the strong correlation denotes the historic relationship between Kuwait and India. The materials and methodology were transient, just like the Silk Road and trade routes of days past. AN EVENING AT PANGONG TSO LAKE WITH THE CHUNGPA NOMADS We were surprised to learn that our issued visas would expire sooner than we had anticipated, so we set out on our journey to Ladakhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third highest pass, also known as Spagmik, to get used to riding the rough and battered roads of the mighty Himalayas. Before we could attempt the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest road, we started with the third highest road in an effort to build our tolerance toward the impending altitude sickness, get used to the roads, and immerse ourselves with the local culture in preparation for our final journey. It is truly a land where nature dominates man and must be treated with the utmost respect and admiration. We ran the risk of altitude sickness faster than we should, so we employed the use of oxygen tanks. On our way to Pangong Tso Lake, we ended up spending the night with the local Chungpa nomads. Located close to Chinese border, the area has restricted access and proved challenging. The altitude alone was more than 4,500 meters. As soon as we arrived to the lake, it was sunset. A local legend traces the history of the lake to millennia ago. It is said that the huge saltwater lake that stretches over 100 KM in length with only a quarter of its size in India formed as a result of the collision of two continental plates. As the local families regaled us with their stories, I admired the traditional house that followed Buddhist

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tradition. The kitchen and bathroom are both located in separate buildings, and there also were the nomads’ source of livelihood that is their livestock of yak and sheep, and only a few cows. Hospitality is a deeply rooted part of the Chungpa tradition. They do not dine with their guests, and the food is cooked fresh by the wife in the traditional kitchen that is laden with antique pieces of china and other fine kitchenwares that are inherited through generations. Extreme temperatures are combatted with a portable heater that utilizes yak waste to keep the space warm, and it is moved from one structure to the other. I enjoyed our stay there, and especially connected with their young son, who was completely fascinated with our fancy iPhones. We enjoyed our little sips of local Ladakhi Chai that is sweetened with butter for added insulation and warmth, as opposed to the traditionally Indian Masala Chai, and we called it a night. The nomadic tribe has a close symbiotic relationship with nature. It is their way of life. The goats and Yaks that are herded are provided with shelter and protection from snow leopards and wolves. In exchange they use their milk, their excrements for fertilization and even heating, their wool is slowly gathered over time to weave the intricately built shelter and blankets, and a goat is slaughtered every sixth months while others are preserved for religious reasons. Blessing rituals are observed every morning. The father read his prayers, navigating the premise in a clockwise manner. The mother milked the goats. It is a simple society, and matriarchal in nature as well, as some tribes allow the woman to take two husbands, while some men take up their roles at the monastery. SUMOOR VIA SHYOK An area that was previously hit by a storm in 2010, severe flashfloods and landslides were common, but we didn’t expect to encounter a landslide in the making. As I road ahead, I noticed the ragged and breathtaking scenery, but as I was ascending a gravelly hill, I dropped the bike and triggered a stone landslide. As the stones fell, I picked up the bike and ran with unprecedented speed. It was a close call. Exhausted, we retired at the Snow Leopard hotel, and enjoyed a bonfire under the full moonlight. The next day, we ascended to the world’s highest desert, a sight we didn’t expect at the foothills of the Himalayas, and saw double hump camels and stunning sand dunes. We prepared for our main ascent and opted for some much needed rest and relaxation at the Sulfur springs.

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ASCENDING THE HIGHEST ROAD: 5680 METERS As excited as I was, an avalanche hindered our final momentous ride. Suddenly we were tight for time, yet I took this as an opportunity to bond with other locals making the same trip. Still, I was the only one on a bike, and I knew that I was running out of oxygen as the air thinned and we weren’t supposed to remain exposed to this high altitude that we were approaching for more than thirty minutes. 15 KM to the top, the roads were grueling, icy and I did everything I could to keep the bike from falling. I felt like I should head back, but I persevered. I decided that my wife should ride in the support van and I rode alone. The temperatures

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were dropping rapidly and as we went up, the oxygen levels decreased, but I refused to use the tanks. 4 KM away, at the last minute the snow from the avalanche was cleared and we ascended victoriously to the top. I was on top of the world, riding with the clouds and the birds by my side. We arrived at an altitude of 5680 meters, even higher than the mighty Everest’s base camp. My fear of heights disappeared, and I suddenly felt flying while my feet were still firmly planted on the ground. We rode through clouds, mountains, and towns. It was an epic journey indeed. Throughout this entire trip, I kept the word Jullay, a Ladakhi word of positivity, on my mind. I kept hearing it, and I believed it. The locals associate the word everything positive. From

“good morning” to “good night”, Jullay surrounded me despite the challenges. I liked this word so much that I decided to call the film Jullay. I would like to extend special thanks to my friend and local Kuwaiti Director Hamad Al Sarraf who has volunteered to codirect and post produce the film making this journey a true collaboration. With our wealth of footage from this trip, and our experience in previously collaborating on the short film Viktor, Jullay still surrounds me, and I can still feel the good vibes.

For more information, follow Waleed Shaalan on Instagram @WaleedSha3lan and Snapchat @WaleedShaalan.

JUST ASK Sultan

ECCO SOFT 7 Celebrating classic sneaker virtues By bazaar staff

It’s official. Classic is in. It’s the ultimate new black. We’ve seen this trend echoed across our social feeds, and we simply can’t get enough of ECCO’s ECCO SOFT 7 range that features soft beautiful leathers framed in the coolest hightop sneaker silhouette that embodies Scandinavian design values. The style is available in either plain black, or white, successfully touching on the very current monochrome trend in the most classical of manners, and we’re drooling over how pretty they are! 122

ECCO recently launched the ECCO 7 series; a funkier interpretation of the classic look is the perfect amalgamation of function and style. Think preppy-clean yet sporty street. Now add black and white contrasts to this picture and think of retro vibes and futuristic ideas. Is this tickling your aesthetic senses in the right way so far? A style that resonates with true global citizens, displaying common aesthetics, principles and values, the ECCO SOFT 7 comes in multiple combinations of black and white with thick white soles as the constant. In addition to having the right look, as the name suggests, the shoe also features super soft leather and flexible soles. Complete your look with just about anything

casual. Our tip would be to pair it up with a tracksuit-inspired jacket. Pair them with cuffed slouchy jeans, or your favorite work-dress for the ultimate casual-chic look. The options are endless, and all you need is your strong personal style ethos, and let those pretty trainers do the rest of the work for you.

ECCO SOFT 7 is now available across ECCO sto res i n Ku wait, KSA and Iraq. C heck out @EccoArabia for their latest updates on Instagram. For more information about Alyasra Fashion visit www.alyasra.com or follow them on Instagram @alyasra or Twitter @alyasrafashion.

LEonor greyl

Available at TONI&GUY Cliffs, TONI&GUY Al Corniche and other selected salons. Exclusively distributed by beau-tique cosmetics int'l. Call for more info 22251285 www.beau-tiqueonline.com beautiquecosmetics beautiquekuwait beautiquecosmetics

SELFIE BOXX Snap-Rec-Share-Print, Powered by M2R Kuwait By bazaar staff

When it comes to super innovative portable photo/video booth SelfieBoxx, what first began as a personal project for cousins David Tashman and Muhannad Nassar quickly turned into a regional sensation. You’ve probably seen this fun booth at a recent wedding, a recent store of product launch, or even while strolling through the mall, as the famous SelfieBoxx is now used for a variety of exciting events, both personal and corporate! The portable booth is extremely compact in nature, and it is built on wheels for portability. Its compact size of 70 cm by 60 cm separates this digital photo booth from its competitors. Not only so, the social features offered in this genius photo booth are revolutionary in nature. From boasting the fastest print speed for your photos in the world (an amazing 12 seconds at the most), to being completely decked out with the technology to upload your photos directly to the social media application of your choice, you and your clients are sorted for your next event. Creating a social buzz is exactly what will make your event a memorable one. From a personal point of you, sharing your experiences live, and being able to tell the world about what’s happening around you without any delays allows you to make the most out of your social media experience. With SelfieBoxx, you can upload to Instagram directly, a feature that is unique only

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this device. Feel like tweeting your photo, no problem! If Facebook is the social media channel of your choice, instant sharing to your social feed is also possible with SelfieBoxx. Not only so, the picture quality employed in Selfieboxx is an astounding 21 megapixels. No more blurry, fuzzy photos, only the crispest clearest photos speedily printed in 8 by 4 inches. It’s as if you’re in a professional photo studio, but you’re actually at the latest launch of your favorite car. The fact that SelfieBoxx is an innovative creation at its core makes it a desirable feature for most events launches. What we love the most about SelfieBoxx , however, is that it is an Arab invention, through and through! Cousins Muhannad and David launched this creative device in June of 2014 our of Jordan, and since then, they have effectively caused a SelfieBoxx sensation across the region by offering their services in Dubai, Palestine, and partnering up exclusively with the marketing and advertising gurus at M2R Kuwait. David believes that partnering with M2R is one of the company’s best moves, as M2R always looks for innovating their services, making a collaboration with SelfieBoxx the perfect fit. David’s cousin Muhannad is the technical guru in this operation, and he’s always updating the SelfieBoxx software with the latest tricks to make this social photo booth completely unique. One of their latest developments is the customizable

green screen feature that allows users to snap their pictures against different backgrounds. Not only so, companies can gather a wealth of invaluable feedback from SelfieBoxx users via a genius survey option, so that marketers could better understand exactly what their customers are looking for. The design of the box is a media tool in and of itself, as the experts at SelfieBoxx could customize the four-sided design of the machine depending on the artwork of your choice. You can make that themed gathering of yours stand out with this added feature, and this is also perfect for both social responsibility and branding campaigns. For the typical SelfieBoxx user, imagine your entire favorite photo sharing applications, all in one sleek, multi touch, and high definition screen. Your photos are safe and secure, and they will not be leaked to any third party members. If you prefer to email yourself your pictures, that’s also an option made available by the SelfieBoxx gurus. SelfieBoxx also allows you to shoot live videos, and instantly upload your 15 seconds of fame to the social media channel of your choice. You can also create collages and play with filters! All you need to do is get in touch with the gurus at SelfieBoxx and they will take care of everything for you, from concept to execution! Call 5060 4462, visit www.selfieboxx.com, and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @SelfieboxxKw.

Nasr sports with brown shoe

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A WOMAN’S

RIGHT TO

‘CHOOS’ By bazaar staff

Bespoke cobbling: two words that almost matter the most in my pursuit of happiness. Add Jimmy Choo’s creative director Sandra Choi’s collection of Choos to the equation, and an overwhelming emotion of felicity embodies me. When luxury shoemaker Jimmy Choo launched their madeto-order (MTO) service last year, women worldwide finally found their secret antidote to melancholy. The romanticism of marrying personalized touches to Italian craftsmanship with the luxury of choice made us all feel like royalty.

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When I attended the MTO service last spring, walking into the store knowing I would get to personalize my shoes was a fairytale experience. There was a wonderland of swatches to choose from in a myriad of colors textures and finishes in signature styles. Inspired by her travels to France and England, Choi allowed vintage femininity to take the lead for the Spring 2015 MTO collection. This year, I am prepared for yet another spectacular adventure. Once inside the store, you get to choose from the trunk which will include a collection made of golden bronze and ivory gold lace brocade, a feminine Toile de Jouy fabric in magnolia and vintage rose and a pair of ‘50s vibrant floral prints re-mastered on silk leaves. “I was drawn to these one of a kind vintage fabrics, fascinated by their origins and story. I wanted to bring them back to life as part of our Made-To-Order offer, not only do they lend a sense of romance to having your shoes custom made but they also bring a sense of vibrant animation to the range with their unique prints.” Sandra Choi, Creative Director. I needed to remind myself to be careful while filling out the order form since almost everything in this collection needs a tick, tick, tick! 60 different versions of fabrics and unique prints that include eye catching metallic elaphé and exotic lizard in a palette of tempting colors - yes please! Vintage fabrics and suede in a selection of iconic designs that include Anouk, Xenia, Lance in varying heel heights - yaaas! This time as well, to my pleasure, the service is also extended to platforms and if you think this is the icing on the cake, think again. Let wedding bells ring! A ‘’Bespoke Date” ser vice will be introduced where you can now have a special 6-digit date etched onto a plaque and fitted to the sole of your MTO shoe in addition to monograming initials. Every girl dreams of a fairytale ending and as the year closes, I will be the first to admit that amidst all the highs of the year, nothing makes me happier than indulging in a little MTO, Choo-style. Not your typical princess behavior but hey, you would too if you were in my “Choos”. The M ade-to-Order ser v ice will be available at Jimmy Choo stores in Kuwait f rom Nov ember 24, 2015.

Jimmy Choo is located at The Avenues – Prestige, 1st floor (2220 0567), and Mall 360 (2530 9912). For more information, visit www. jimmychoo.com and follow their latest updates on Instagram through Alyasra Fashion, @AlYasra.

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Fastte

eleco

THE TASTE OF Q8 IS BACK!

Foodies statewide: mark your calendars for March 17-19, 2016 By bazaar staff

There’s nothing quite like walking into an arena that is alive with the various aromas of international cuisines. We at bazaar love food festivals, from the smell of melted mozzarella wafting from pizza ovens, freshly prepared waffles that beckon passersby to stop by for a bite, to the sizzling sounds emanating from a nearby grill, we can’t get enough of being surrounded by food, glorious food! Are you drooling yet? Good, because the second edition of The Taste of Q8 that is set to take place next year in March, so mark your calendars! Founded, organized and managed by locals Michelle Lambros and Caroline Rosinski, their mission is to make The Taste Of Q8—Kuwait’s Food Festival the annual, signature food event for Kuwait. Michelle said, “By doing so we hope to highlight and support our local talent, our chefs, caterers, restaurants and the food industry at large. The Taste of Q8 is all about food, and we wish to support the local foodie community with our annual Food Festival.” Last year’s festival featured 78 different vendors, 16 homegrown businesses and was also well received by approximately 20,000 visitors. The Taste of Q8 is poised for even greater success next year, as the organizers are introducing two new features that will definitely have attendees coming back for more. Caroline and Michelle told bazaar that they plan on 130

organizing a cooking school that features interactive celebrity chef demonstrations. Last year we met the famous “Spice Prince” Reza Mahammad and The Giggling Gourmet, Jenny Morris. They regaled us with inspiring culinary tales, and we couldn’t get enough of their entertaining cooking demonstrations. This new feature will allow attendees to actively participate with more renowned Food Network channel chefs, and learn some crafty culinary moves from the ultimate experts. The lineup of celebrity chefs will be announced soon! Also planned is the Grand Tasting Tent that will feature a limited number of homegrown chefs and cooks preparing their signature dishes and offering free samplers to attendees. The Grand Tasting Tent will also offer chef demonstrations and tips and tricks from the participating local chefs, which will truly make for a unique and interactive experience for the festival’s attendees. Imagine this, not only will you get to experience the most delectable little plates from a myriad of prominent food and beverage outlets in Kuwait, but you will also get the chance to experience authentic local flavors from a selection of incredibly talented chefs that happen to be living right here in Kuwait! For restaurant owners, The Taste of Q8 represents a celebration of Kuwait and its evergrowing food industry culture. It is an incredible and rare sight, seeing restaurants that started with humble beginnings flourish into prime success stories. The festival presents an opportunity for restaurants owners and F&B companies to celebrate their growth with the festival’s attendees, and offers them a chance to interact

with their loyal customers, as well as extending their palatable dishes to new audiences. A CALL OUT TO LOCAL CHEFS! If you’re a local chef currently residing in Kuwait, then you should get in touch with the Taste Of Q8 to book your space at the Grand Tasting Tent. The organizers are offering a very limited number of spaces to all of you aspiring Jamie Olivers in the making! Qualifying participants must have at least five years experience in the culinary arts. Whether it is a small home-based business, or an up and coming catering service that you are running out of your own kitchen, the Taste of Q8 is exclusively offering this space to chefs who do not currently own a restaurant. Chefs must have a social media following, and will be required to submit their Instagram account name as part of their application. Selected chefs will receive a space in the Grand Tasting Tent where they can prepare dishes, demonstrate their skills, and will be asked to provide small bite-sized food samples to attendees as part of their demonstrations. Space will be given to selected chefs at no cost to them, and these chefs will be highlighted in the festival’s marketing activities. The organizers are open to creating fun contests and activities at the Grand Tasting Tent, so what are you waiting for? Apply today! The Taste of Q8 – Kuwait’s Food Festival is not just a day out for the whole family, but an incredible experience for the Kuwaiti population, and truly an event that stands by its slogan, “All About Food!” Interested vendors and aspiring chefs should head to TheTasteofQ8.com to apply for their place or follow them on Twitter or Instagram @thetasteofQ8 for the latest updates!

Burger king

Like us on Facebook Burger King - Kuwait Follow us on Twitter @burgerkingkw Follow us on Instagram @burgerkingkw

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bazaar goes dining

EDO ON THE SHORE

Japanese dining by the sea By bazaar staff

Regardless of its location, the quality of the food that you consume at Edo is always impeccable. Now that you are used to dining at Edo Club, a Japanese oasis set at the Sahara Golf Club in Kuwait that is well known for its Friday Buffet Lunches and Tuesday Jazz Nights, you can also enjoy yet another unforgettable experience at Edo On The Shore at the Sea View complex in Abu Halifa. With serene views of the glimmering Arabian Gulf coast, coupled with the welcoming staff and your favorite Japanese dishes, Edo On The Shore is set to be a new favorite for all of us regular ‘Edo-ers’ as well as nearby residents of the Fahaheel district. The atmosphere at Edo On The Shore echoes with purist Zen. The pristine white high ceilings allow for a constant flood of natural light that calmly reflects off of the restaurant’s iconic red, black and white elements. You will notice the modular modern light fixtures, and the sleek black bar that showcases the finest cuts of fish that serve as a promise for a delicious dining experience. Edo On The Shore’s outside seating area is set in Sea View complex’s pier like façade, making al fresco dining a must this time of year. Still, with ample seating inside, you can enjoy this seaside rendition at any time of the year. Start off your Edo experience with the delectable Chicken Yakitori, that delivers on the most delicate morsels of skewered

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chicken. For shrimp lovers it’s all about the Ebi Karami, flavored with a tangy hot sauce, and the Ebi Koumiyaki, bursting with sweet chili sauce and aromatic potherbs. We also tried the Okonomiyaki, a traditional Japanese seafood omelet, and it was full of fresh flavors—this is definitely our new favorite! We absolutely love Edo’s shrimp steamed dumplings, and we can’t get enough of this establishment’s freshest ingredients when it comes to seafood. The countless sushi platters ordered by this bazaar editor alone speak miles to the quality of the shrimp, salmon, tuna and practically all of Edo’s seafood offerings. For those of you who prefer Tofu, the marinated Tofu steak with Miso is not to be missed. You’re never at a loss for hearty and wholesome dishes at Edo. If you’re looking for the perfect lunch, then the Donburi individual rice dishes will surely hit the spot. Whether you have it all to yourself, or share (we won’t judge you if you do), the Katsu Don will deliver you with your choice of either breaded beef or chicken, served over a generous helping of rice with eggs, mushrooms and onion. Mix it all up in the bowl, and revel in the pleasing medley of flavors and textures. For tempura fans, the Ten Don will steal your heart, if not simply for the expertly breaded shrimp tempura that comes with this dish! Every element of the Donburi dishes are prepared with flavor in mind, and are best enjoyed when you mix up all of the elements in the bowl (rice, vegetables, protein) with small sips of the accompanying soup in between bites. If your palate simply prefers noodles, then Negi Ramen with chicken, spring onions and noodles served in a hot pot will warm you right up! The Yaki Soba delivers on pan-fried Japanese egg noodles with both chicken and shrimp with fresh vegetables, and will have your taste buds dancing with joy! We also learned that Edo On The Shore will soon offer an additional six Korean dishes to their menu, bringing you more of the flavors that you could regularly enjoy when visiting Edo Club at the Sahara Kuwait Golf Club. Our favorite Edo On The Shore selections also included the marinated and buttery soft Black Cod, slowly simmered in a delectable Miso sauce. The Sunomono with octopus, scallop and shrimp will ideally cleanse your palate, and prepare you for the perfect way to end your meal at the beachside rendition of Edo. You can’t dine here without ordering some sushi and sashimi, and as always, you know you’re in for a treat when it comes to their salmon and tuna selections. We love that the salmon is cut so close to the skin, allowing us diners to benefit from the healthiest part of this seafood delight. When it comes to dessert, the expert chef at Edo On The Shore dazzled us with what could be best described as the perfect Mochi. A traditional Japanese rice cake usually served with a creamy filling, your childish side will be playfully pleased with the Mochi with vanilla bean home made ice cream that’s innocently sweet and creamy, and your adult palate will absolutely appreciate the wondrously infused green tea version that is prepared with Macha. We loved the Mochi here because it wasn’t at all overpowering, and while our sweet tooth was satisfied, we still didn’t forget the symphony of flavors that we earlier enjoyed at one of our favorite dining institutions in Kuwait. Edo On The Shore is located at the Sea View Complex in Abu Halifa. Please call 2220 9220 for more information or visit edorestaurant.net. Edo Club is located at the Sahara Golf Club (2220 3464 and 6600 7341.) Follow Edo on Instagram @Edo_Restaurant.

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RAISING CANE’S Chicken like never before “ONE LOVE” By bazaar staff

An institution in the States, and straight from Louisiana - Raising Cane’s has made its way to Kuwait and straight into our hearts. With their first flagship restaurant outside of the US opening here, we jumped on the opportunity to munch on their deliciously golden chicken fingers. As part of the latest dining trend that is “high-end, fast casual dining,” Raising Cane’s brings you an unforgettable experience. Because they have ONE LOVE® you have no room for indecisiveness with three, four, or a six (the Caniac Combo - for the brave) quality chicken finger meals or a Sandwich Combo. And lest we forget the children - they can order a Kids Combo that consists of two chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, and a soft drink or juice, that also comes with a prize! Depending on your appetite, you take your pick and approach the counter to place your order before taking a seat with your buzzer at hand. Once your buzzer goes off, you approach the pick-up counter, get your meal and head right back to your seat to indulge. Indulgence is key - be it in the form of the decor around you or the infinite Sweet Tea refills - the experience is as unforgettable as your first bite of chicken. The seating, while informal, is superbly casual-chic. Unified tables with different chair options are all part of the charm. Pick the table with beautiful wooden chairs or better yet, why not scoot into a booth with your friends? Fountain drinks and freshly brewed Iced Tea (Sweet or Unsweetened) can be filled to your heart’s content over and over again - so get comfortable and wallow in the joyful goodness. For our highly anticipated meals, we ordered the Sandwich Combo and the ever-so-popular Box Combo - yum! The Sandwich Combo came with three chicken fingers in a Kaiser roll with lettuce and slathered with the super special Cane’s sauce, with a side of crinkle-cut fries and a regular drink. The roll was expertly baked adding an extra dimension to the dough’s fluff-factor, and the chicken fingers were made to perfection. The Box Combo came with four chicken fingers, a side of crinkle-cut fries, the wonderful Cane’s signature sauce, Garlic Texas Toast, Coleslaw and a regular drink. Premium ingredients grace your

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dish ensuring you get nothing short of fantastic. For our drinks, we went for their freshly squeezed Lemonade and their Iced Tea - decadently glorious Sweet Tea - both over their signature crushed ice. The chicken at Raising Cane’s is evidently the ultimate star of the show - using only premium chicken tenderloin. Their idea is to do one thing and to do it with ONE LOVE to ensure quality and freshness with every cook-to-order meal giving the whole concept a regular-chicken-but-better feel. Marinated for a full twenty-four hours, when ordered the tender chicken fingers are then handbattered, breaded and ready-to-fry, resulting in

chicken that is the most succulent and tender piece you can ever bite into. As for their supersecret sauce recipe, you’ll have to go try it to know what makes it super special - hint: it goes stunningly with everything on your plate! Now if you’ll excuse us, we have some more chicken waiting to be munched on. Raising Cane’s is located in The Avenues, next to The Chees ecake Factor y. C al l them at 182-12-12 for more information. Fol l ow them o n li ne on Facebook and Ins tag ram @RaisingCanesME for more fun facts and info!

UK’s No. 1 selling scar & stretch mark product.

Pharma

“I’ve never written to a company before, either in praise or complaint of a product, but feel compelled to do so in this case. A few months back my father cut his forehead quite badly. It healed well, but left a really noticeable scar. A friend recommended Bio-Oil and the results were outstanding. Before long, the scar improved and now you can barely see it! I was so impressed that I also tried it on my uneven skin tone, and after only two months, the marks are not only significantly lighter, but my skin has never looked or felt better. Thanks for a product that does what it promises!” Claire Davies

Bio-Oil® is a specialist skincare product formulated to help improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. Its unique formulation, which contains the breakthrough ingredient PurCellin Oil™, is also highly effective for ageing and dehydrated skin. For comprehensive product information and results of clinical trials, please visit bio-oil.com. Bio-Oil is available at pharmacies and selected retailers at the recommended selling price of KD 3.900 (60ml). Individual results will vary.

bazaar apps Literally at your fingertips

KUWAIT EVENTS Events are a big part of the Kuwaiti society. Over many years, our culture has flourished with public events of all kinds. There are so many public events happening almost everyday. Kuwait Events is an easy to use application that finds and explores events based on popularity and your interests, you can add events to your calendar with one touch and set reminders automatically, get your map directions to the events on the spot! You can share events with family and friends and if you are an event planner you can even add your own event through the app!

SEEDLING COMIC STUDIO This app might be geared at kids, but it was so much fun to use as an adult that it’s definitely worth a download. Seedling Comic Studio lets you create comic pages using the photos in your library and the photos you take within the app. The templates are laid out with multiple spaces so making a progression is easy. Stickers are available within the app that range from a superhero mask to laser beams to speech bubbles and even props, and you can even download more sticker packs, although you may find, like me, that you don’t need to due to so many preinstalled. Fun with a capital F.

FLASHGAP

Flashgap works like this: You create a Flashgap (essentially a shared photo album) with your friends; then, start shooting pictures for the album. Each photo disappears three seconds after you’ve shot it, so you’re focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the shot you just took. The next day, at 12 p.m., your photo-filled album is revealed, letting you experience the event all over again from your and your friends’ perspectives. The photos are there for you to save, share, and treasure — or try to forget about. Perfect for those that hate spending gatherings glued to their phone.

HOTEL TONIGHT So many of us go to Dubai regularly, for various reasons, be it leisure, business, travel or the classic visa run. We have our individual choices and options for good accommodation; however, having a backup plan never hurt anyone, right? Enter Hotel Tonight, a mobile only booking platform for last minute hotel rooms, who have just added Dubai to their database. But if you don’t fancy Dubai? No problem. Hotel Tonight covers hotel rooms in 35 countries, including other recent additions Russia and Australia. So, wherever you’re off to, chances are that this app will have you covered.

GLEXTOR Glextor is an Android app manager that gives you full control over the way apps appear on your device: split them into categories and folders, highlight your favorites, find important apps quickly, tailor the app drawer interface and more. There are both free and paid-for versions of the app to choose from. The premium edition adds a few extra features, including support for subfolders, automatic app backup updates, an unlimited number of hidden apps and of course, no ads. While other apps have attempted these things before, this one manages to add a ton of functionality without destroying the Android aesthetic.

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PORSCHE TRACK PRECISION Four out of five of all Porsche GTs ever built have been driven on the track. One in three enthusiastic drivers takes to the track in the first year of ownership testing sporting limits of vehicle and personal skills. Porsche has developed a Track Precision app especially for such drivers. The app, designed for track use, enables the driver to perform a detailed and objective analysis of lap times and personal driving style using synchronised data and video recordings, utilizing your device’s high-resolution camera and GPS signals, but also offers various other functions. Check it out on the App Store or Google Play for full details.

“Thicker, fuller hair has always been a issue

Sacha Global Creative Director, says close toMascolo-Tarbuck, my heart. To help create healthy looking locks, weightless volume and lift are

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Brightening Blonde was developed as an important addition to the label.m key. This latest prescriptive range from label.m range, to offer clients a regime which works helps to add volume from root-to-tip and to brighten, nurture and promote a healthy, brightertolooking blonde. instantly visible thickness any hair type whilstRegardless of whether your protecting hair from damage” shade ofnourishing blonde and is chemically-assisted or completely natural, the botanical Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck ingredients within the formulations are key to preventing brassiness, Global Creative Director infusing the hair with moisture but instantly giving an incredible ‘brightening effect’ from the first time the products are used.

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NEW Brightening Blonde! Available at TONI&GUY Cliffs, TONI&GUY Al Corniche and other selected salons. Exclusively distributed by beau-tique cosmetics int'l. Call for more info 2225 1285 www.beau-tiqueonline.com beautiquecosmetics beautiquekuwait beautiquecosmetics

VIVA ESPAÑA Finding the unbeaten paths By bazaar staff

e at bazaar are absolutely addicted to Spain. Being at the top of our annual leave destinations, we usually hit up the usual suspects of Ibiza, Madrid and Barcelona and rarely visit lesserknown locations. So naturally, when our friends at the Spanish Embassy came to us with alternatives, we jumped right in! It’s only a matter of time till we hop onto a plane and jet off to one of the many alternative destinations listed below. If only the boss would greenlight our super-early and super-extended leaves… One can only hope!

Blowin’ in the wind For the more daring, there is a different way to go sightseeing in Spain: hanging from a balloon. Several companies offer this option, for city tours or just to roam the skies above the country. Spain.info introduces “Spain with the wind”, starting from Madrid and visiting monumental sites nearby such as Segovia, Aranjuez or Toledo. It will be a unique experience, plus you won’t have to queue for museum tickets! For more, check out www.spain.info and www.aerotours.com.

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Winter is coming The Castle of Santa Florentina in Canet de Mar (near Barcelona) was restored in the late nineteenth century, transforming an ancient fortress into a comfortable chateau fit for a king. Now it is available for different kinds of private events. It is strategically located between two airports and the French border, close to the beach and the mountains. Every season it hosts a classical music festival, like many other towns in the area. But could you guess which world famous TV series has been shooting new episodes this year in Santa Florentina? It’s almost winter, so check out www.castelldesantaflorentina.es for more!

Ascari Racing With more than 5 kilometers of curves and slopes, this circuit is the longest of its kind in Spain. The Ascari racing track is an impressive track where you can experience raw speed without limits... but always with maximum safety.

Nothing is more fascinating than a racing track. Check out www.ascari.net to find out how you can zoom through Spain’s longest track!

Island B’n’B A fabulous five-bedroom villa smack in the middle of a desert island just for you, its bright and spacious interiors have been fully equipped by internationally renowned designers. You can rent the villa for a perfect holiday, complete with separate accommodation for service staff, a private heliport and a small marina. If it gets too lonely, jump on a boat and Ibiza is just 5 minutes away! Private islands are the dream! Make it a reality and check out www.island-tagomago.com.

You are the champion Practice your favorite sports with internationally renowned sportspersons and share their passion for what they do. Feel the emotion of a top football game between some of the most prestigious teams in the world. You can even live an unforgettably glamorous weekend of Formula 1 and MotoGP. Because there’s nothing better than an experience. Check out www.joyaexperience.com for more.

Al Andalus Espresso As you sip your coffee in this palace on wheels, the landscape passing by is never the same. The Al Andalus is a vintage train with luxuriously furnished suites and saloons. And to facilitate a good night’s rest, it will remain parked at a station during the night. This season, the Al Andalus introduces a wider range of routes and a carefully balanced program that lets you choose to go on the scheduled excursion or to explore on your own: Granada, Córdoba, Seville... Or maybe just stay on board and enjoy the live entertainment and excellent cuisine. There is a party every night in the lounge! Ride the luxury train! Book your trip through w w w. r e n f e . c o m / t r e n e s t u r i s t i c o s / e n g / alandalus.html.

Up in the woods Two of the four cabins in the Zuhaitz-etxeak complex are hanging from the trees 17 meters above ground in the municipality of Zeanuri, south of Biscay. One of them is a suite with a 360-degree terrace for panoramic views of the green surroundings. You can sit with your family and friends, or wait for the deer to visit you. Everything is bio here: a hymn to the lush environment and the wild woods. www.cabanasenlosarboles.com

Andalusian Horse Whisperers “How the Andalusian Horses Dance” is an equestrian ballet accompanied by quintessential Spanish music and 18th century style costumes, all put together and choreographed using movements based upon Classical Dressage, Doma Vaquera (countrystyle riding) and other equestrian traditions. Private exhibitions can be arranged. They had us at “equestrian ballet!” Go to www.realescuela.org for more.

Water hazard Keeping your golf balls dry is certainly a challenge if your are playing aboard the classic Southern Cross, a schooner built in 1960 and briefly owned by the British Royal Family. But don’t worry, the balls are biodegradable and they won’t hurt the environment of the wonderful Costa de Barcelona. And while you improve your swing, you can enjoy a gourmet luncheon! Golf is our s for the taking! Check out www.webarcelona.com to master your swing.

Fins are fun! After an introductory training on monitoring techniques, during this unusual three-day sailboat tour of the Catalan Coast you will be able to distinguish the sounds and signs of cetaceans like whales and dolphins. An unforgettable experience of contact with nature in the Mediterranean! Get up close and personal with the marine world’s greatest mammals! For more, go to www.travelecoology.com.

What are you waiting for? Apply for your visa now and start planning your next adventure! Go to www.vfsglobal.com/spain/kuwait for application forms and more! All images have been kindly provided courtesy of the Embassy of Spain in Kuwait.

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bazaar techno Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. ~ Arthur C. Clarke

KARMA GO

LG V10 SMARTPHONE

BOSE SOUNDTOUCH 10 SPEAKER

Normally when we think of “helping others”, our heads fill with visions of moving a buddy’s couch up a flight of stairs, or driving 15 minutes out of our way to let our aunt’s dog out for a bit. With Karma Go, you can help out those around you get online, anywhere you are. This LTE-enabled WiFi is easily pocketable, can handle up to eight devices at a time — including yours — and for each person you share your connection with, you’ll receive 100 MB of data for free, while they pay for their own data.

There are usually two things that are most important on a phone: the screen and the camera. The LG V 10 Smartphone has unique features for both. On the screen side, it has a 5.7-inch QHD display, and above a 160 pixel-tall “second screen” that can be set to stay on, showing the time, weather, and battery status, and can display shortcuts or incoming notifications when you’re using the device. Above that, there are two 5 megapixel front cameras that work in concert with sophisticated software to join the two images into a single wide-angle shot, eliminating the need for a selfie stick.

Don’t let its size fool you. The Bose SoundTouch 10 Speaker packs big sound and a well-rounded feature set into a diminutive package. Standing less than 8.5 inches tall, it uses a new 2.5 inch Unidome speaker that, paired with the company’s digital signal processing, produces surprisingly full sound. It also has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi builtin, the latter of which gives you instant access to streaming services like Spotify and Pandora, and lets the speaker hook up with other SoundTouch units in your house wirelessly — giving you the ability to build a whole-house system that includes home theater systems, soundbars, standalone units, and even outdoor speakers.

TIVO BOLT

SUUNTO TRAVERSE

SEABOARD RISE KEYBOARD

Cord cutting is a real trend. But if you’re not ready to wean yourself off the cable TV teat just yet, the Tivo Bolt can at least improve your experience. This 4K-capable box lets you skip entire commercial breaks with a single button press, and offers Tivo’s renowned universal search across all your cable channels, OTA feeds, and streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The new QuickMode lets you watch slowmoving recorded shows up to 30% faster without audio distortion, and is available in 500GB and 1TB models, with the ability to add more storage by hooking up an external drive.

Adventure watch makers Suunto have released their latest timepiece, the Suunto Traverse, a new navigation tool for hiking and trekking. The outdoor GPS watch features straightforward navigation for aspiring outdoor enthusiasts, making route planning easy and simple. The adventure watch also provides key statistics such as altitude and distance, total ascent, and gives you alerts such as weather changes, storm alarms, incoming calls, texts and push notifications. Other notable features are the activity tracking, providing daily step and calorie count, an extra bright flashlight mode, and a powerful battery. Available in three color alternatives: black, white and amber.

Roli have introduced their latest MIDI controller, dubbed the Seaboard RISE. The innovative keyboard provides musicians an affordable and accessible tool that lets them create authentic instrumental simulations in real time. The minimalist keyboard features pressure-sensitive continuous surface instead of individual keys, this gives the user great movement feel and a more fluid like use, allowing to shape notes and modulate sound in real time with various finger gestures. Seaboard RISE is compatible with a variety of software and comes with Equator, a custom-built multi-platform software synthesizer. To put to use at home, studio or in a live-act, a real all-round and versatile instrument. www.blessthisstuff.com www.uncrate.com

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raising canes

EVERYTHING MOMS IN

KUWAIT NEED TO KNOW FOR 3 YEARS IN A ROW By Jamie Etheridge

Kuwait Moms Guide’s third annual print edition now available

Becoming a mom is a bit like going to university. Pregnancy is like Freshman year. You take a test, get a positive result, buy a lot of books and set up a room full of stuff you think you’ll need. The birth and first days of a newborn pass like the first semester in a haze of running here and there, no sleep and lots of late nights.

By the time your baby hits toddlerhood, similar to Sophomore year, you have a few friends in the same situation and think you know what you’re doing. But then comes early and middle childhood and like Senior year panic you aren’t sure of anything anymore. If you’ve been to university and are a mom, then you probably know both experiences are incredibly challenging and infinitely rewarding. And like university students, moms also need a great support network and a lot of information and knowledge. Kuwait Moms Guide aims to answer this need. Now in its third year, the newest issue of the KMG print edition was released this fall. This publication continues to deliver reliable and wellresearched information about everything moms in Kuwait need to know. The 2015-2016 print edition of the Kuwait Moms Guide focuses on the many challenges and issues facing moms in Kuwait. Mothers must know an incredible amount of information about everything from common childhood illnesses to dealing with issues like bullying and developmental delays to everyday concerns like finding the right pediatrician, parks and playgrounds for children and what to do on the weekend. Kuwait Moms Guide understands what mothers need and tackles these issues in an easy-to-read and accessible style that offers insight and information as a valuable resource

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useful throughout the entire year. In the third annual print edition, KMG offers a variety of helpful information on Kuwait’s maternity leave law, the health benefits for kids spending time outdoors, tips on having a new baby, how to handle peer pressure or stay strong as a single mother and much more. The Arabic and English bilingual edition also includes a hefty and useful directory of services for moms and kids including afterschool activities, stuff for babies, crafting, shopping, preschools, community groups and services for the home. Remember back to your first days at university,

the slight fear and uncertainty you felt as you entered a new era of your life? Motherhood can be as daunting but Kuwait Moms Guide provides useful information that helps you be prepared and reduce the uncertainty. To learn more about Kuwait Moms Guide or find a list of locations to pick up your copy of the 2015/2016 edition, visit: www.kuwaitmomsguide.com. Check it out on Instagram @KuwaitMomsGuide or Facebook at facebook.com/KuwaitMomsGuide or Snapchat @KuwaitMomsGuide.

taste q8

The Green, Green Grass of Home How to transform any grass

surface safely, in minutes!

Alhamy’s team during the application of Green Canary

Hassan El Debbes, Project Manager at Alhamy International

By bazaar staff

As any garden-loving resident will know, Kuwait’s extreme climate is not kind to grass. Brown patches and dead grass can be seen in our lawns, school playing fields and public parks. Now one company has a unique, environmentallyfriendly solution. Alhamy International is transforming gardens and public parks with Green Canary - a naturally-sourced, green pigment extracted from seaweed that sprays on in minutes and lasts, well months. Unlike other harmful, chemicalor paint-based colorants it contains no toxic ingredients so after a few hours when it is dry, pets and kids can all enjoy the lush green surface. Green Canary is actually full of nutrients so it also feeds the plant and gives it added resilience. Invented in California to deal with the current ‘mega-drought’, it works wonders in harsh climates. Project Manager Hassan El Debbes sits down with bazaar to talk more about Green Canary and how Kuwait can, quite literally, ‘go green’.

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What are some of the main challenges that many people face when it comes to keeping their natural lawns green? We live in a part of the world where we suffer from extreme temperatures, aridity and wide, seasonal variations in humidity. Scorching temperatures and high humidity levels can last for seven or eight months each year in the Gulf region, which makes it very hard to maintain lush grass. Moreover, in winter, grass becomes dormant from the relative low temperatures and results in grass tending to not grow and ultimately turning brown. What is Green Canary? What brought about its creation? Green Canary is an instant, eco-friendly, nontoxic remedy for dormant or unsightly grass. It’s easy to use as it only takes a few minutes to apply, but lasts for months! Green Canary was created in California, where there has been a century-long mega-drought. What inspired Alhamy to bring this innovative product/service to Kuwait? Alhamy’s vision is to make a difference to the environment. If we enhance our environment aesthetically, it has a positive effect on society. However, we do not want this to be a purely superficial or cosmetic beautification of grass. We wanted to find eco-friendly solutions that

could stand the extreme climatic conditions posed by the GCC. Green Canary was the only suitable and safe solution. How does Green Canary help consumers keep their lawns green? How does the technology work? It helps by coating the grass surface (such as lawns, turf or sports fields) with a specially formulated, eco-friendly pigment that is derived from algae. Along with being a natural food colorant, algae contain over sixty different nutrients that work naturally with sunlight to revive the grass. How does Green Canary reduce consumption of water? Green Canary contains a specific group of natural nutrients, which help minimize water evaporation and assist the grass’s biological resistance to drought. This in turn gives the grass added resilience especially in drought conditions and in dry, arid climates. Aren’t some colorants considered harmful to pets and the environment? What makes Green Canary eco-friendly? Colorants come in different forms and some are indeed harmful. However, Green Canary is the ONLY product in the GCC to contain green pigments derived from nature. These green pigments are used in everyday food colorants

Before and after applying Green Canary

Hassan El Debbes and Ahmad Al Moussawi, Chief Technician, inspect damaged grass

and are not harmful to pets or the environment. Our product also does not contain dangerous chemicals such as ammonia and kaolin, which tend to be used in similar treatments. We advise consumers to check the constituents of any grass treatment prior to use. Green Canary is considered ‘eco-friendly’ because it is made of natural, renewable sources such as seaweed and algae. No pollutants are used in the harvesting of algae. What are some added benefits of Green Canary that would attract the typical homeowner or institution in Kuwait? We provide instant results: the grass can be used just two hours after the application and one

application lasts 3-4 months, thus spreading the initial investment over a long period. We work year-round, and also offer special services for special events, and we supply colors to give your grass a touch of creativity! Imagine waking up and seeing “Happy Birthday!” written on your lawn, or having your school or company logo on a playing field! How does the application and maintenance process work in Kuwait? Our professionally trained technicians apply the product manually by spraying it onto the surface via a motorized pump. What are some of your future goals? To enhance Kuwait’s green spaces in an

environmentally friendly way and to encourage the use of safe grass treatments and water reduction.

Does your brown lawn need an eco-friendly boost? For more information on Green Canary contact Alhamy via their website at www.alhamyintl.com, or follow them on social media: Instagram @GREEN_CANARY_Q8 Facebook ALHAMY GREEN CANARY Twitter @GREENCANARY_Q8 Call 2247 8378/9 or 9800 6083. And don’t worry, their team speaks English, Arabic, French and Farsi.

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THE BEST GAMES TO COME BEFORE 2016 By Patrick Makhoul

Fallout 4 Fallout is a franchise that has been around for quite some time, starting out as an isometric 2-D open world RPG which evolved into a 3-D open-world game once Bethesda Studios got their hands on it. Fallout 4 is set in Boston and takes place 200 years after a nuclear war, around the same time Fallout 3 does. Fallout 4 will be similar to its predecessor so you’ll be able to roam around and explore an open post-apocalyptic wasteland, but this time you’ll be able to build your own settlements, fully customize your weapons and ride vehicles. Star Wars Battlefront Star Wars Battlefront promises to be an entertaining and action packed online multiplayer shooter. We can’t expect any less when the studio behind it is DICE, known for their excellent Battlefield series. The game will feature various game modes that will include huge epic forty player battles to smaller scale

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six on six fights. You get to choose between being an Imperial Stormtrooper or a Rebel Alliance soldier and battles will take place across the planets Endor, Hoth, Tatooine, and Sullust. Xenoblade Chronicles X Xenoblade Chronicles on the Wii became a quick favorite of mine and I consider it to be one of the best role-playing games I’ve experienced. The world and the narrative were brilliant. The amount of content was staggering. Xenoblade Chronicles X is a spiritual successor which is being released in December on the Wii U. The game promises to be similar to it’s predecessor, but even more advanced, including the ability to customize and ride your very own mech as you explore a new planet to establish a new home for humanity. Assassin’s Creed Syndicate Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is set in 1868 London during the Industrial Revolution.

Ubisoft is giving us the choice to play with two characters who are twins, Jacob and Evie Frye as you take on the Templars. The game will also feature vehicles for the first time which include trains and horse carriages. The game has also improved its combat system, making it more fluid and smooth, letting you switch between melee combat and weapon combat without interruption. Halo 5: Guardians It’s been three years since the release of Halo 4. With each release the games have gotten more and more ambitious and Halo 5: Guardians doesn’t seem to be any different. Boasting a large ensemble cast, Halo 5 will feature a campaign mode with two main characters, similar to that of Halo 2. You’ll be playing both as Master Chief and as Agent Locke, a “manhunter” tasked with finding Master Chief, who has gone missing with his squad. The multiplayer aspect of the game has also been improved. Instead of using Halo 4’s system where each player could customize their loadout, everyone starts with the same weapons in Halo 5. Which is fairer for all players involved because kills will be based more on skill, knowledge of the levels and where the best weapons are in each map. Call of Duty Black Ops III The risk with games that come out annually is that they start to feel like the same game. So it’s nice to see Treyarch take some risks with Black Ops III. First off you’ll be able to customize your main character in campaign mode and you’ll also have a choice between choosing to be a male or female character both fully voiced by talented actors. The campaign mode is also designed to be more open, with bigger levels and less shooting in tight spaces like corridors. Campaign mode will also support up to 4 players in co-op mode. The game will also include a full-fledged zombie mode which includes it’s own campaign mode and XP progression system. Multiplayer has also been changed. Instead of creating your own character to fight against other people, you’ll have to choose between nine different “specialists” who have their own personalities, weapons and abilities.

Diabetes

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bazaar books Fiction reveals truth that reality obscures. ~ Jessamyn West

THE MARTIAN By Andy Weir

THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF TIDYING UP By Marie Kondo

Remember Man Plus, Frederik Pohl’s award-winning 1976 novel about a cyborg astronaut who’s sent, alone, to Mars? Imagine instead that the astronaut was just a regular guy, part of a team sent to the red planet, and that through a series of tragic events, he’s left behind, stranded and facing certain death. That’s the premise of this gripping and (given its subject matter) startlingly plausible novel. The story is told mostly through the log entries of astronaut Mark Watney, chronicling his efforts to survive: making the prefab habitat livable and finding a way to grow food, make water, and get himself off the planet. Interspersed among the log entries are sections told from the point of view of the NASA specialists, back on Earth, who discover that Watney is not dead (as everyone assumed) and scramble together a rescue plan. There are some inevitable similarities between the book and the 1964 movie Robinson Crusoe on Mars, but where the movie was a broad sci-fi adventure, the novel is a tightly constructed and completely believable story of a man’s ingenuity and strength in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Riveting.

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This #1 New York Times bestselling guide to decluttering your home from Japanese cleaning consultant Marie Kondo takes readers step-by-step through her revolutionary KonMari Method for simplifying, organizing, and storing. Despite constant efforts to declutter your home, do papers still accumulate like snowdrifts and clothes pile up like a tangled mess of noodles? Japanese cleaning consultant Marie Kondo takes tidying to a whole new level, promising that if you properly simplify and organize your home once, you’ll never have to do it again. Most methods advocate a room-by-room or little-by-little approach, which doom you to pick away at your piles of stuff forever. The KonMari Method, with its revolutionary category-bycategory system, leads to lasting results. In fact, none of Kondo’s clients have lapsed (and she still has a three-month waiting list). With detailed guidance for determining which items in your house “spark joy” (and which don’t), this international bestseller featuring Tokyo’s newest lifestyle phenomenon will help you clear your clutter and enjoy the unique magic of a tidy home—and the calm, motivated mindset it can inspire.

THE AMAZING BOOK IS NOT ON FIRE By Dan Howell/Phil Lester

From YouTube sensations Dan Howell (danisnotonfire) and Phil Lester (AmazingPhil) comes a laugh-out-loud look into the world created by two awkward guys who share their lives on the Internet. More than 8 million YouTube subscribers can’t wait for this book! Since uploading their first ever videos as teenagers, Dan and Phil have become two of the world’s biggest YouTube stars. Now they invite you on a behindthe-scenes journey, filled with absolutely essential advice, tons of humor, lots of awkwardness, and TMI honesty that they will probably regret. Here’s just a small sample of the fun surprises readers can look forward to; The inside story of the time they met One Direction, excerpts from Phil’s teenage diary, reasons why Dan’s a fail (so far), how to draw the perfect cat whiskers, reasons why Phil was such a weird kid (back then), which of their dining room chairs represents you emotionally and what really happened in Vegas. In The Amazing Book Is Not on Fire, Dan and Phil are candid, heartfelt, and hilarious.

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE By Anthony Doerr Marie-Laure lives with her father in Paris near the Museum of Natural History, where he works as the master of its thousands of locks. When she is six, Marie-Laure goes blind and her father builds a perfect miniature of their neighborhood so she can memorize it by touch and navigate her way home. When she is twelve, the Nazis occupy Paris and father and daughter flee to the walled citadel of Saint-Malo, where Marie-Laure’s reclusive great-uncle lives in a tall house by the sea. With them they carry what might be the museum’s most valuable and dangerous jewel. In a mining town in Germany, the orphan Werner grows up with his younger sister, enchanted by a crude radio they find. Werner becomes an expert at building and fixing these crucial new instruments, a talent that wins him a place at a brutal academy for Hitler Youth, then a special assignment to track the resistance. More and more aware of the human cost of his intelligence, Werner travels through the heart of the war and, finally, into Saint-Malo, where his story and Marie-Laure’s converge.

THE PIONEER WOMAN COOKS: DINNERTIME By Ree Drummond

For families juggling school, work, and a host of other timeconsuming daily obligations, the idea of making dinner from scratch can be daunting. Ree Drummond makes it easy for families to make simple, scrumptious, homemade meals with minimum fuss and maximum enjoyment. The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime! includes delicious, easy-to-make recipes for comfort classics, 16-minute meals, freezer-friendly food, as well as soups, main dish salads, and a favorite of her own family: breakfast for dinner. You’ll find more than 125 fastand-delicious recipes that combine pantry staples with fresh ingredients, including Beef Stroganoff, Chicken Taco Salad, Pasta Puttanesca, Ready-to-go freezer Meatballs (and many dinners you can make with them!), oven Barbecue Chicken, Mexican Tortilla Casserole, Veggie Chili, Beef with Snow Peas, and many, many more. Included is a section of mouthwatering quick desserts—literally the icing on the cake. Filled with Ree’s signature step-by-step photos, relatable humor, and irresistible, folksy charm, The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime! is the go-to cookbook every home cook can rely on for any—and every—night of the week.

Source: www.amazon.co.uk

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REDECORATE FOR THE

HOLIDAYS WITH POTTERY BARN, POTTERY BARN KIDS, PBTEEN, WEST ELM AND

WILLIAMS-SONOMA By bazaar staff

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his holiday season, the five distinguished stores offer a collection of goodies that will add tidings of joy and cheer to anybody’s home. With everyone in mind, there’s a bit of something for all to enjoy. For those who are looking to update their living spaces, West Elm has a holiday collection that boasts timeless, chic designs that will entice the interior decorator in you. The Martin side table (1) is sleek and sculpted to add some oomph to any room in the house. Made from cast aluminum, this lightweight two-tone table is crisp and classic. West Elm’s collection also features a highly fashionable faux fur detailing with throw pillows and cushions (2). If you’re looking for a new couch and have a taste for classic and vintage with a modern twist, look no further than the Hamilton Sofa (3). Inspired by 1950s furniture silhouettes, this sofa feels as luxurious as it looks, and is covered in premium top-grain leather. For the enter tainer looking to host holidayinspired gatherings, Potter y Barn offers a collection of merr y touches for gatherings of friends and family. The highlight of this collection includes Reindeer Dinnerware (4), with a collection of whimsical reindeer in a playful stance dedicated to their own unique characters. Other notable mentions are the cozy plush stockings (5) waiting to be stuffed with goodies and hung on the mantle or wall, and candy bowls with red hats as festive lids (6). Are your youngsters craving an update in their living spaces? For the little ones, Pottery Barn Kids can live like little princes and princesses with royally themed bedspreads draped across the Blythe Tufted Bed and Headboard, the regal bed of their dreams (7). Adorned with beads and sequence, the Butterfly Jewelry Box (8) combines glimmering details with smart organization. This will make for the perfect gift this holiday season. For the tech-savvy teens, PBteen has a line of awesome speakers in the form of faux-fur critters (9), and sports balls (10). These cool speakers feature a universal auxiliary chord and front pocket to hold your MP3 player or phone, and also offer a clear and strong sound (sorry, mom and dad!). For those who crave on-the go sound with pizazz, PBteen has a line of highquality smart headphones with funky detailing! (11) These headphones feature a retractable cord and magnetic clip to keep them at hand and untangled, and the eye-catching designs

add that touch of uniqueness and expression that teenagers crave. For the butchers, bakers and candlestick makers obsessed with their kitchens, our preview of Williams-Sonoma’s holiday collection is definitely something to look forward to. The collection offers an array of exciting gadgets. Classic Artisinal KitchenAid stand mixers (12) are also available in a selection of colors that will make your kitchen pop. For the chef at heart, Williams-Sonoma carries the impressive Mauviel professional copper cookware collection (13) that has been used

in the world’s greatest kitchens since 1830. This beautiful set will have you channeling the master chefs of history as Mauviel has been used by fine restaurants and Parisian cooking schools. Designed for perfectly uniform heating with unrivaled temperature control, the set includes the ideal pieces for a wide variety of culinary techniques. What are you waiting for, Kuwait? Get to The Avenues and get shopping at West Elm, Pottery Barn, PBteen, Pottery Barn Kids and Williams-Sonoma for perfect holiday living.

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bazaar movie night night The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in November

SPECTRE (BOND 24)

ROCK THE KASBAH

STEVE JOBS

Release Date: November 5th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Thriller Cast: Daniel Craig/Christoph Waltz/Ralph Fiennes/ Stephanie Sigman

Release Date: Nov. 12 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Comedy, Music Cast: Bruce Willis/Zooey Deschanel/Kate Hudson

Release Date: Nov. 12 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Biography Cast: Michael Fassbender/Kate Winslet/Seth Rogan

Synopsis: A cryptic message from the past leads James Bond (Daniel Craig) to Mexico City and Rome, where he meets the beautiful widow (Monica Bellucci) of an infamous criminal. After infiltrating a secret meeting, 007 uncovers the existence of the sinister organization Spectre. Needing the help of the daughter of an old nemesis, he embarks on a mission to find her. As Bond ventures toward the heart of Spectre, and while M battles political forces to keep the secret service alive, he discovers a chilling connection between himself and the enemy (Christoph Waltz) he seeks.

Synopsis: Rock the Kasbah is an American comedy film directed by Barry Levinson and written by Mitch Glazer. While visiting Kabul, Afghanistan, washedup rock manager Richie Lanz (Bill Murray) gets dumped by his last client (Zooey Deschanel). His luck changes when he discovers Salima Khan, a Pashtun teenager with a beautiful voice who dreams of becoming the first female to compete on the television show “Afghan Star.” With help from a savvy partner (Kate Hudson), two war profiteers and a trigger-happy mercenary (Bruce Willis), Richie embarks on a mission to make sure his new star gets discovered.

Synopsis: A biographical look at the life of late Apple founder, Steve Jobs. With public anticipation running high, Apple Inc. co-founders Steve Jobs (Michael Fassbender) and Steve “Woz” Wozniak (Seth Rogan) get ready to unveil the first Macintosh in 1984. Jobs must also deal with personal issues related to ex-girlfriend Chrisann Brennan (Kate Winslet) and their young daughter Lisa. Eventually fired, Jobs launches NeXT Inc. and prepares to release a new computer model in 1988. Ten years later, Jobs is back at Apple Inc. and about to revolutionize the industry once again with the iMac.

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 2

BRIDGE OF SPIES

CREED

Release Date: November 19th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Adventure, Sci-Fi Cast: Jennifer Lawrence/Josh Hutcherson

Release Date: November 26th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama, Thriller Cast: Tom Hanks/Amy Ryan

Release Date: November 26th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama, Sport Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Michael B. Jordan

Synopsis: Out this month is the follow-up to the successful and popular Hunger Games series of movies. Realizing the stakes are no longer just for survival, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) teams up with her closest friends, including Peeta (Josh Hutcherson), Gale (Liam Hemsworth) and Finnick for the ultimate mission. Together, they leave District 13 to liberate the citizens of war-torn Panem and assassinate President Snow, who’s obsessed with destroying Katniss. What lies ahead are mortal traps, dangerous enemies and moral choices that will ultimately determine the future of millions.

Synopsis: Stephen Spielberg’s latest blockbuster is this war drama. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union captures U.S. pilot Francis Gary Powers after shooting down his U-2 spy plane. Sentenced to 10 years in prison, Powers’ only hope is New York lawyer James Donovan (Tom Hanks), recruited by a CIA operative (Scott Shepherd) to negotiate his release. Donovan boards a plane to Berlin, hoping to win the young man’s freedom through a prisoner exchange. If all goes well, the Russians would get convicted spy Rudolf Abel, who Donovan defended in court years earlier.

Synopsis: The latest in the Rocky franchise. Adonis Johnson (Michael B. Jordan) never knew his famous father, boxing champion Apollo Creed, who died before Adonis was born. However, boxing is in his blood, so he seeks out Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) and asks the retired champ to be his trainer. Rocky sees much of Apollo in Adonis, and agrees to mentor him, even as he battles an opponent deadlier than any in the ring. With Rocky’s help, Adonis soon gets a title shot, but whether he has the true heart of a fighter remains to be seen.

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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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bazaar around town P.F. CHANG’S OPENS THIRD KUWAIT RESTAURANT AT NEW SIDRA It’s official: residents of Kuwait can now enjoy Dynamite Shrimp, Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps and Mongolian Beef in Mahboula. P.F. Chang’s, America’s awardwinning Asian bistro, has opened its third outlet at Sidra, the new dining destination, building on a list of top destinations across the Middle East. P.F. Chang’s is a casual bistro offering full service Asian-inspired dining that is innovative, fresh, delicious and always made from scratch. The new branch strikes a perfect balance between Asian tradition and modern American style, and maintains its focus on customer comfort, warm hospitality and kind service. In terms of décor, the new restaurant is adorned with rich colors as well as wood and stone textures, giving it a warm and inviting feeling. Those warm colors are complemented by distinct metal accents that provide a sleek and hip atmosphere. As the restaurant’s centerpiece, the panoramic, hand-painted mural, which depicts ancient China, is visible from the main dining room, while several terracotta warriors stand guard, commanding attention. P.F. Chang’s offers Asian-inspired cuisine through innovative dishes that illustrate the emerging influence of modern Asia. Dishes are made to order using the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and the menu features a tantalizing array of appetizers, soups, entrees, noodles, rice, vegetables and desserts. As well as the new Sidra location, P.F. Chang’s is located at The Avenues mall and the Corniche Club, Gulf Road.

POTTERY BARN KIDS BRINGS THE FORCE HOME Pottery Barn Kids are eagerly awaiting the premiere of Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens and know you are too! So they’ve carefully designed a collection of Star Wars furniture, accessories and textiles to make even the most avid fan happy. Whether you want to introduce your kids to the Star Wars universe, add to their collection of memorabilia or treat yourself to a little nostalgia, they’ve got something for you. The new line covers everything from the original trilogy to Star Wars: The Force Awakens, with sheets, pillows, and even “galactic gifts.” Check out a special preview below and shop the entire collection at your nearest store! Star War Millennium Falcon bed is the comfiest hunk of junk in the galaxy, the ultimate in storage solutions, and a lot more. The Millennium Falcon is the coolest starship in the galaxy, and now, it’s also the coolest bed. Jump into hyperspeed for pleasant dreams! This playful bed boasts straight-from-the-set Star Wars details, including the Millennium Falcon’s iconic cockpit shape, knobs and gauges. This bed is hand-painted and built to last through playtime after playtime. Star Wars Millennium Falcon sheeting is made of pure cotton percale, this soft sheeting is out of this galaxy, with its iconic Millennium Falcon design exclusive to Pottery Barn Kids. Star Wars beanbag & anywhere chair is perfect for relaxing, snuggling and taking over the galaxy. Add this cozy, kid-sized Death Star seat to any room to create an iconic just-for-them spot. Star Wars backpack with sound can carry their gear with confidence when their backpack is shaped like R2D2, a furry Chewbacca or Darth Vader’s mask - and makes a signature sound at the push of a button. LEGO Star Wars R2D2 watch lets them build their own LEGO watch featuring the galaxy’s favorite Droid. Add on the blue, orange, gray, black and white links for a unique watchband pattern. Star Wars puzzle lets your kids develop problem solving and motor skills while they play, boasting Darth Vader artwork and a creative storage box. Star Wars gift set is an action-packed meal. Durable and dishwasher-safe, this set includes a plate, cup and bowl and inspires a morning adventure. Look out for these great items in store now. Find your nearest store on www.potterybarnkids.me, and catch them online on Facebook: potterybarnkidsmena.

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DEAN & DELUCA INTRODUCES THE TASTE OF AMERICA DEAN & DELUCA, Kuwait’s gourmet café and retail store, has launched the Taste of America: an exclusive all-day American menu featuring classic American dishes that are taken to new heights and crafted to be irresistible. Available for a limited time, the Taste of America menu offers guests and diners a gourmet trip around the United States of America. The new menu, which started October, pays tribute to the brand’s American heritage and the store’s first location in SoHo, New York. An icon of New York City’s culture and lifestyle, DEAN & DELUCA has gained immense popularity worldwide for introducing fresh menus, inspiring and delighting foodies everywhere. The highlights of the new menu include an All-American breakfast of French Toast, drizzled with Nutella, or a classic Omelet filled with gourmet beef bacon, mushrooms, red peppers, and the signature DEAN & DELUCA cheese. No American menu is complete without the classic burger. DEAN & DELUCA’s vast array of burgers are crafted from fresh, premium ingredients to satisfy each and every taste. From the classic cheeseburger, paying homage to DEAN & DELUCA’s hometown, to a spicy chicken burger elevated to a gourmet standard and the traditional barbeque burger glazed with a premium sauce, customers will not be left disappointed. Diners can also enjoy the classic club sandwich or a sumptuous US Angus steak that comes served with grilled tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, mixed green salad and their special hand-cut triple cooked fries. Dessert lovers can enjoy an assortment of delicious desserts. Indulge in a southern inspired Apple Pie baked in a crispy and buttery shell; an east-coast inspired thick and creamy New York Baked Cheesecake, topped with cherry sauce and filled with strawberry filling; or treat yourself to a luxurious serving of Chocolate Rocky Road Sundae, topped with marshmallows, almond slices and chocolate sauce. The Taste of America menu coincides with the Discover America Festival that runs from 7 October to 31 December, 2015. For almost 40 years DEAN & DELUCA has made it their mission to provide the world’s best epicurean treats for cooking, eating and entertaining. Committed to a quest for excellence, the chefs continue to innovate and discover a sumptuous celebration of food with the introduction of fresh, uplifting menus aimed to inspire food lovers everywhere. Dean & Delcua is located in The Avenues Mall. For more information on their products, visit: www.deandeluca.com.

NUQAT ANNOUNCES ITS 6TH ANNUAL CREATIVE CONFERENCE The program of the 2015 Nuqat creative conference is to launch November 12th and continues to the 18th. Hussa Al Humaidhi, a founding member, has announced that the Nuqat conference this year will be devoted to addressing the topic ‘Copy/Paste Syndrome’ from multiple angles. The conference and supplementary activities will focus on the role played by imitation – asking whether it inspires creativity or undervalues it. The conference will also look at whether copy/paste work is creative (and whether there is such a thing as a creative work completely void of borrowing). Conference speakers and participants will discuss how our societies might define original and innovative work, and whether uniqueness and individuality is the highest pursuit of creativity. These questions and topics will be addressed during 22 lectures delivered at Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah at the Amricani Cultural Center. The lectures are to be presented by prominent specialists in many fields and from different countries such as scholar and curator Mitra Abbaspour (previous assistant curator at the MoMA), reknowned photographer Laura Boushnak, Kevin Mitchell from AUS, and Kuwait-based artist Ghadah AlKandari, to name a few. Ten workshops will be held at Yarmouk Cultural Center and AlShaheed Park. The program also includes many extra activities such as art exhibits and evenings including musical, poetry, entertainment show, and cultural tour evenings. To register or for more information, check out www.nuqat.com. HOME CENTRE: 20 YEARS OF INSPIRING HOMES Home Centre, the largest home retailer in the Middle East, is proud to announce the appointment of Arab icon Nancy Ajram as their brand ambassador. This is a special announcement that comes on the occasion of Home Centre’s 20th Anniversary. Speaking about the collaboration, Médéric Payne, CEO of Home Centre said: “This is an important and exciting year for Home Centre and we are very pleased to welcome Nancy Ajram to our Home Centre family. Nancy shares Home Centre’s key attributes of being born in the MENA region. Her family oriented image makes her perfectly complement a brand like ours. A well-loved celebrity with international recognition, Nancy Ajram is a household name in the Arab world. She truly represents our spirit of celebration which we want to share with our customers through our anniversary year.” Nancy Ajram will be seen showcasing Home Centre’s inspirational furniture pieces and elegant accessories in the brand’s global campaign. The singer’s graceful and glamourous appearance, will be reflected in a series of TV, print, outdoor and digital advertisements. This year’s Home Centre catalogue features some of Nancy’s favorite pieces from the brand’s latest collections. Home Centre stores are located at Al Rai, Shuwaikh, The Avenues, Kuwait City and Fahaheel.

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bazaar checks it out THE EAGERLY ANTICIPATED 2016 AUDI Q7 ARRIVES IN KUWAIT Audi Kuwait, represented by Fouad Alghanim and Sons Automotive Company launches the all-new 2016 Audi Q7 after a successful exclusive preview at the Avenues Prestige Ballroom. The 3 day event gave guests of Fouad Alghanim and Sons an opportunity to experience the Audi promise of “Vorsprung durch Technik - “advancement through technology”- where they were introduced to the smartest quattro ever. The all-new Audi Q7 promises precision, presence and performance. Precision was the aim of Audi designers, when they were sculpting the imposing exterior and totally redesigning the interior. Presence is what the Q7 masters on the road and performance is what this car delivers on any terrain. The all-new Q7 is up to 325 kilograms less in weight than the predecessor and this, together with its low center of mass, makes it extremely agile. It is the most spacious car in its segment. Even though the exterior dimensions are smaller than the previous generation, the Audi Q7 offers substantially more interior room for passengers and luggage. Its innovative assistance and infotainment systems also make it superior in this segment. The SUV segment is one of the biggest markets in Kuwait and with luxurious dimensions, sporty dynamics and attractive pricing; the Audi Q7 delivers best in class performance. The all-new 2016 Audi Q7 is now available at the Audi Kuwait showroom. For more information call 1811 118 or visit the website www.audi-kuwait.com/q7

WAKE UP AND WEAR THE COFFEE American Eagle Outfitters launches Denim Flex Café for Guys and Denim Café X for Girls - not your average pair of jeans. This new collection takes the bestselling Flex and Denim X and infuses them with 2.25 grams of recycled coffee grounds per pair of jeans! Why? Because AEO likes to do things a little differently, and the benefits are rather surprising. Since coffee grounds have a natural deodorizing quality, Denim Café jeans are also able to ward off smells and will help keep your pants going for a few extra wears. The coffee-infused jeans also protect the wearer from harmful UV rays. And for those concerned about smelling like you spilt coffee on yourself, worry not: the coffee grounds used in the jeans have been treated to remove the fragrant components, like phenols, esters and oils. The Denim Café collections hit stores this from 12th November across the Middle East and North Africa. For more information, visit www.ae.com.

HYUNDAI SCRAP ART COMPETITION Capitalizing on the success of Hyundai’s Scrap Art competition, and due to its tremendous popularity and participation rates, Northern Gulf has invited university, college students and art lovers to participate in this year’s competition celebrating creativity and inspiration. The judging panel includes Mr. Raed Turjuman, CEO of Northern Gulf, Mr. George Power, Professor of Creative Art and Art History at the American University in Kuwait and who holds a PHD in Arts, Mr. Bashar Abdel Hamid Salem, CEO of Kayan Middle East and who holds an Engineering degree from Louisiana University, and Mr. Abdel Aziz Alrayes, an Architect at Kayan. The competition, which runs throughout October, will culminate at the Hyundai showroom where members of Northern Gulf’s management team will meet with the participants, their friends and families alongside members of the press and leading social media influencers. The judging panel will select a winning piece, and the winner will be given a chance to visit the Hyundai factory in South Korea, which is considered one of the largest automotive factories in the world. Hyundai hopes this competition will provide new ways of looking at spare parts, whether to be used in works of art or to be reused in other projects. For more information on the latest Acura range, you can visit http://www.hyundai.com/kw.

HONDA ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF THE ALL NEW 2016 ACURA RDX Honda Motor Co. (Africa and Middle East Office) recently announced the launch of the powerful and luxurious Acura RDX in Kuwait, adding to the existing line up of MDX and TLX. Acura continue to set new standards in automotive design and engineering, and have done for two decades, through bold innovation, a refined sense of aesthetics and precision crafted performance. The all new 2016 RDX is a great addition to the lineup of the Acura brand in the region. The all new 2016 RDX is the second generation of Acura’s five-passenger SUV which focusses on prestige, performance, luxury and sportiness. The all new 2016 Acura RDX, considered as the right sized SUV, harnesses a host of Acura signature technologies to deliver on Acura’s product direction of “Synergy between Man and Machine”. The all new 2016 Acura RDX boasts of a smooth and sleek aerodynamically efficient body, Jewel Eye LED Headlights, leather interior, remote engine start and a power packed 3.5L i-VTEC Engine with Variable Cylinder Management. The Acura Jewel eye LED headlights are complimented by a 3 Dimensional grille and rear LED taillights with light pipe design. For more information on the latest Acura range, you can visit www.acura-mideast.com.

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BARTON PERREIRA AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 Barton Perreira takes a romantic turn for Autumn/Winter 2015, finding inspiration in designer Patty Perreira’s pop culture favorites and beloved decades. She is a bit of a hopeless romantic, which gives her collection an extraordinary soulfulness. Elevating the classics, a signature of Barton Perreira, this collection features filigree metalwork and layered tortoise, creating intricate details with dreamy depth for an exquisite, unparalleled look. Heroines of the ultimate love stories star in the collection, like the Dunaway, for Faye Dunaway’s portrayal of Bonnie Parker, the stylish female outlaw. Exuding ‘40s elegance and glamour, the frames are modernized in a new honey-amber tortoise with slightly transparent bottle green lenses. The Heist, a captivating alternative to the traditional aviator, and its fiery feminine counterpart Seraphina, are sleek with an airy lightness, featuring an intricate double bridge with layered tortoise at the brow. The Ascot, a unisex ‘40s retro classic, is edged up with a parametric 3-point rounded shape and keyhole bridge. ValleyGirl gives a nod to the 80’s love story of the same name. Fun and quirky, it injects freshness into a timeless look in smoky marble acetate with gradient silver flash mirror lenses. Plimsoul, a boyish Beatnik/New Wave sunglass with a subtle keyhole bridge, is featured in matte grey for an edgy finish. In homage to the modern love story, Clueless, the “Betty” channels Cher Horowitz’s bold playfulness with a modified cat eye and lamination details inside the temples. Optical styles Kemp and Wallach blur gender lines with a minimalistic, androgynous aesthetic in luminous shades of Matte Loden Tortoise, Chestnut and Dusk. With influence from the Golden Age of Hip Hop, Perreira brings to life the Neneh, after the artist of one of her favourite songs, Buffalo Stance. On repeat at her studio, the track inspired a style with blue silver flash mirror lenses surrounded by thick crystal zyl with black tortoise temples for the ultimate statement. The “Justice,” named after Janet Jackson’s character in Poetic Justice, offers a new interpretation of a rounded aviator. Reminiscent of Art Deco styling with a contemporary twist, the exquisite filigree etched detail radiates from within the acetate. Function and superior quality are integral aspects of what sets Barton Perreira apart: the Japanese couture craftsmanship combined with the materials used provide the highest quality lenses, lightest feeling frames, and most precise fit. Barton Perreira is stocked at International Optique, located in Central Plaza, Souk Sharq, Arraya Mall, Al Muthanna Complex and Al Kout Mall. You can visit the International Optique website at www.intoptic.com. PINKBERRY INTRODUCES NEW HANDCRAFTED FROZEN YOGURT POPS Pinkberry, the leading retailer of innovative frozen yogurt treats, has launched a range of new customizable and handcrafted frozen yogurt pops. The frozen yogurt pops are made with premium non-fat frozen yogurt, gourmet dry toppings and premium sauces. An on-the-go frozen treat, Pinkberry’s new frozen yogurt pops provide customers with endless combinations guaranteed to tantalize discerning taste buds and satisfy indulgent cravings. You can create your own frozen yogurt pops by selecting one of your favorite flavors (original, pomegranate or chocolate) dipped into a rich chocolate sauce or a nutty and creamy pistachio sauce, topped with a range of gourmet toppings. From crunchy granola, or a colorful burst of sprinkles, to the tropical taste of coconut flakes, the choice is yours! Take it one step further by double dipping the frozen yogurt pop and adding a drizzle of a smooth sauce on top. The frozen yogurt pops are an innovative and irresistible addition to the Pinkberry menu that provides customers with a new way of enjoying their favorite frozen yogurt with family and friends. It will be exclusively available to customers at the Pinkberry store in 2nd Avenue, The Avenues, for a limited time.

SUKAR GROUP LAUNCHES FIRST ISSUE OF SUKAR MAGAZINE SUKAR Magazine’s first issue has launched in October, by Sukar Group in a celebration at Lentore restaurant at Mall 360. SUKAR is a free quarterly magazine. It is the first of its kind in Kuwait reflecting Kuwaiti youth talents and achievements in the local sweets industry. It is a Kuwaiti project bringing to readers everything related to desserts and sweets. The magazine pages include exciting articles and interesting recipes in an innovative layout. The idea of SUKAR magazine came after the exhibition Sukar Ramadan, the annual sweets exhibition held annually at the Mall 360 a week prior to the holy month of Ramadan. Sukar Ramadan brings all desserts and sweets shops in Kuwait under one roof to visitors making it easier for them to shop for Ramadan. As part of the expansion, Sukar Group came up with the idea of the magazine to provide readers with information on everything related to sweets in the local market. SUKAR Magazine has Fouz Alfahad, social media celebrity of its cover and much more inside its pages. You can read Sukar at Caribou Coffee, Mall 360, Wonderful, Marina Mall, Nagwa, Lazord, Monkey Cookies, O’Blush Salon, The Regency Hotel, Diet Care, Cheatu De Gateux, and Society.

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bazaar a la mode AFM ESTABLISHMENT ACQUIRES FRANCHISE OF SLOAN’S ICE CREAM AFM Establishment LLC, which owns and operates well-known retail and real estate companies in Kuwait, has secured a multi-unit franchise development agreement with Sloan’s Ice Cream – a premium West Palm Beach, Florida-based brand combining innovative ice cream flavors with over-thetop aesthetics, including bold pink and neon green walls and heaping amounts of candy and toys. The agreement, effectively makes Sloan’s Ice Cream in Kuwait a part of the Al-Mutawa’s development group. “When we first stepped inside Sloan’s in South Florida, we realized this is the opportunity we have been searching for,” said Ali Al-Mutawa, co-owner of AFM Establishment. “The creativity, energy and brilliant presentation of Sloan’s lured us in, and the ice cream taste is beyond incredible. We are thrilled to make this magical shop our next business venture.” They will be opening five locations in Kuwait in the near future. The first location will be opening soon at The Promenade in Hawally. Sloan’s shops are community destinations like no other. Plush toys line the walls, homemade sweets fill the countertops, and rich original ice cream flavors made from the finest ingredients are scooped at a fervent pace as fanatical guests enter each store. The stores that AFM will open include the treats and atmosphere that has provided Sloan’s its cult following around the globe. “Simply put, we created Sloan’s to be a dreamland for everyone, kids and adults of all ages, and our focus has never changed,” said Sloan Kamenstein, founder, owner and a classically trained chef who honed his craft at London’s Le Cordon Bleu culinary school and trained in kitchens throughout France. “The time has come to share Sloan’s yumminess around the globe and we’re thrilled about expanding our huge following into Kuwait. Sloan’s has a bright future in Kuwait and beyond.” Kamenstein himself has designed the complete menu of creative ice cream, candy and sweet treats. These include dozens of innovative flavors such as Tracy’s Scrumptious Pretzel (caramel ice cream with milk chocolate covered salty pretzels and peanut butter swirls), Cookie Monster (made with homemade chocolate chip cookies) and Mom’s Apple Pie (apple pie ice cream with pieces of homemade apple pie). In addition to this development agreement, Sloan’s is actively pursuing growth throughout the Middle East in similarly attractive markets. The agreement with AFM Establishment marks the concept’s second multi-unit franchise agreement in the Middle East this year, joining the five-shop deal struck for the United Arab Emirates. For more information about Sloan’s, visit www.sloansicecream.com

WAREHOUSE LAUNCHES AUTUMN / WINTER 2015 COLLECTION The season is in retrograde once more as the seventies obsession continues its reign. The difference with this revival is a clean, contemporary take on the aesthetic, adjusted to the lifestyle of the modern woman who will wear it. A range of high quality premium pieces have been designed with the Warehouse customer in mind. The collection offers investment pieces that are both timeless and durable, ensuring they’ll be a wardrobe staple for years to come. The collection incorporates printed silk pieces, a rich color palette of colored suede, fringed and studded leather dresses, embroidered gilets and skirts and oversized alpaca knitwear. Hand-embroidered suede jackets, crafted loom jumpers and delicately embellished lace dresses comprise the exclusive collection of AW15 limited edition pieces. The range includes 100% shearling biker jackets, sheepskin coats, a real wool maxi trench and velvet and cut-work lace dresses. The brand’s first cashmere collection launched in October 2014 and was extremely successful, selling out in-store and online within two weeks of the launch. Building on the success of last season, Warehouse has introduced a wider selection of cashmere including the 70s inspired kick flare trousers with an oversized coordinating jumper, luxe joggers, co-ords and skirts as well as classic cashmere staples including jumpers, cardigans and socks. Warehouse is located inside Debenhams at The Avenues mall.

NOSTALGIC INSPIRATIONS THIS AUTUMN / WINTER 2015 WITH COAST 70s MUSE gives subtle nods to the era are teamed with a bold palette of greens, teals and navy, bringing the trend up to date for AW15. Beautiful botanical prints contrast with intricate jacquards, whilst soft fabrics and relaxed silhouettes embody the spirit of the decade. Outerwear adds a touch of luxury in this trend, with fur stoles and scarves completing the look for the party season. DARK ROMANCE’s beautiful finishes feature throughout the collection with feathers to fringing adoring key party pieces. A nod to Victoriana, with exquisite lace and delicate collars, adds an extra touch of elegance; this is set off with structured jackets, adding a contemporary edge. MODERN GRAPHIC’s impactful dressing is given a fun update for AW15 with the modern graphic trend. Graphic black and white is softened with blush tones to add femininity. Accessories are focal to the trend with this season’s signature fur stole in wintery white adding a playful feel to dressing up. MIDNIGHT LUXE’s looks are show-stopping, with statement necklines adorning dresses and sophisticated separates for a modern twist on the feminine silhouette. Burnished metallic elements compliment this season’s key real, navy and black palette creating a modern and dramatic vision for the season. Coast can be found at The Avenues Mall, and Souq Sharq. For more information on Coast products, visit www.coast-stores.com. 158

OASIS AUTUMN / WINTER 2015 COLLECTION Channel your inner romantic this season with Oasis, as you take a walk down memory lane to the insouciant ‘70s. Authenticity is key this season. From washed denim to Prince of Wales and Donegal check, this season takes a literal approach to the era’s most iconic shapes and styles, reworking them with the lightest touch for Autumn/Winter 2015. Clean, lean cuts are layered for effortless effect, while pattern is replaced by embellishment including detailed embroidery, full fringing and opulent jacquard for both day and night. Artisan inspired fabrics and tactile textures thrill, with shearling, lace and velvet sitting prettily alongside bouclé, felt, wool twills and tweed. Embroidered yolks, lace trims and ditsy florals beautifully capture AW15’s nostalgic verve, taking direct inspiration from iconic St. Germain, Paris. This sweet spin on the season’s dominant ‘70s trend adds charm and allure – it’s the girl we all want to be. By day, this works as contrast traditional checks with variegated stripes and cable knits with skinny ribs. Meanwhile A-line skirts, wide leg trousers and kick flares go hand-in-hand with the humble polo neck – an essential staple that continues to work hard this season. For evening glamour, reference Studio 54 in lame gold, faux fox fur and brilliant beading. Oasis is located in The Avenues, Marina, Al Kout and Souq Sharq malls. DESIGUAL AT NEW YORK FASHION WEEK SS16 Desigual presented its most free-spirited, edgy and urban collection, strengthened by Misha Janette’s eclectic styling and Lauro Samblás’ pop-inspired staging. The new SS16 Learn collection by Desigual is inspired by Barcelona, with a completely new take on the brand’s image. It emanates the company’s irreverent, bold and fun attitude. The bottom line is that it’s all a question of attitude: a pledge to daring, fearlessness, the unexpected and surprising - and to induce shock. Layered looks and unusual combinations found their way onto the New York catwalk and left an urban, sophisticated and bold mark. Shirts worn as skirts, hand painted brush stroke prints on oversize blouses, jumpers worn as turbans, A-line midi-skirts with patchwork embroidery, jackets that combine denim, military fabric and embroidery, palazzo pants and ankle grazers, embellished urban jeans with delicate embroidery, long shirts worn as evening dresses, and dressy dresses worn with trainers, all came to together to make Desigual’s SS16 collection its most authentic yet. New arrivals included all the Desigual handmade classics like their signature patchwork, handcrafted frills and layering. Visit Desigual at The Avenues Mall for the latest fashions. Check them out online at www.desigual.com.

‘DON’T ASK WHY’ BY AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS American Eagle Outfitters launches its exclusive ‘Don’t Ask Why’ collection of effortless street style with a festival inspired edge … because Coachella styling isn’t just for spring! ‘Don’t Ask Why’ offers fresh designs from the US, made in Italy and is the newest collection to hit American Eagle Outfitters! The pieces are designed in one size to fuse the effortless street style of New York, L.A. and Milan with a festival-inspired edge. ‘Off the shoulder’ is a serious trend and these fall tones are making a style statement. Wear the paisley print off-the-shoulder ruffle top matched with the wrap-around maxi skirt for an effortless look. These breezy pieces are perfect for mixing, matching and layering. Just ‘Don’t Ask Why’. Back to Black – a high-neck body con dress is your canvas. Adorn it with accessories, tie a plaid shirt around your waist or keep it simple with a fresh pair of sneakers. However you wear it, just ‘Don’t Ask Why’. V-neck cropped sweaters flatter your silhouette, as the flowing pants keep you cool and comfy. Wear with aviators to shield your eyes from the winter sun. This look is made for the days when you just, ‘Don’t Ask Why’. The Don’t Ask Why collection will be exclusively launching in Kuwait at The American Eagle store in The Avenues – Phase 3. TED BAKER’S INDULGENT BATH AND BODY COLLECTION AT BOOTS Available exclusively in Boots stores, Ted’s indulgent Bath & Body Collection is inspired by one of his most covetable fashion prints, Sugar Sweet Floral. The collection consists of; BODY WASH: Ensure you always come up smelling of roses with Ted’s delightfully decadent body wash. BATH BUBBLES: Lie back and unwind amongst the rich, creamy bubbles with this sumptuous bath treat. HAND CREAM: Keep hands beautifully moisturized and hydrated with this soft floral fruity hand cream. BODY SOUFFLÉ: This opulent body soufflé will leave your skin feeling silky smooth and pampered to perfection. LIP BLAM: Perfect your pout with Ted’s pretty pink lip balm, softly scented with delicate floral notes. BODY LOTION: Leaves your skin feeling luxuriously soft and smelling of freshly picked spring blooms. BODY SPRAY: Feel fresh as a daisy with just one spritz of this sweet smelling body spray. HANDBAG ESSENTIALS GIFT: Ted’s handy pink travel bag contains a collection of essentials including a Vanilla Lip Balm, a mini Body Lotion and mini Body Spray. HAT BOX GIFT: This gorgeous collection contains a refreshing Body Wash, moisturising Body Lotion and a Body Polisher. Get your Ted Baker collection at 20 Boots locations in Kuwait. To find your nearest store, visit www.alshaya.com/ locations/kuwait/boots.

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bazaar scopes what’s your sign? LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21

Avoid taking sides in a family fight unless you like playing with fire. Even the most diplomatic Libran could get burned. An old friend may resurface. An Aries will come to you for advice. Use common sense when making financial decisions.

A change in a friend’s behavior could provide clues into his/her past. Be diplomatic when giving advice – especially if you’re giving it to someone much different from you. All eyes will be on you and you may be approached with a new opportunity. Be open.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 – DEC 21

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

An opportunity for career advancement comes midmonth. Think twice before jumping at something you know nothing about. News of a breakup will come out of nowhere, even if you’re disappointed, you won’t be surprised. Be honest in a love relationship.

Be supportive of a loved one who is going through changes. Being a good listener is key in aiding him/her with their situation. An unexpected windfall will make an upcoming trip more enjoyable. You’ll have something special to look forward to. Keep business and pleasure very separate this month.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19 What seemed like a hopeless situation last month, now takes a positive turn. You’ll have something more to look forward to. If a new romance is what you’re looking for, this could be a promising month. Keep an eye out for a charming Leo. Health concerns prove unwarranted.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18 Learn how to say “no,” Aquarius. There’s nothing wrong with being nice, but being too nice is as good as inviting others to take advantage of you. Take charge and you’ll gain respect. Anticipation of an upcoming event may give you some anxiety. Seek meditation as a way to relax.

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 20

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22 If it has seemed lately that the world has been caving in on you, you’ll be happy to find that you can make your way through the rubble. Things will come a little easier now and you’ll be able to reap the rewards of hard work. Now you can relax. A Libra brings extra fun to a weekend outing.

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22 Someone who looks to you as a mentor will ask for advice. Be sure to present both sides of the story. If you have a lot on your mind, you’d be better off taking some time to yourself rather than trying to tackle big projects. Good news for Virgos saving towards a big purchase.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 – NOV 22 A getaway may not be all that you hoped for. Several unexpected delays could put a damper on spirits. Try to make the best of it. This month, you’ll see a different side of someone you thought you knew. Unforeseen expenses make finances become an issue later in the month.

Don’t let self-doubt get the better of you. Success is near. You just have to hold on to your confidence in order to get it. Understanding is the key to happiness in a love relationship. Being a good listener is more important than you realize. Virgo plays a big role this month.

ARIES MAR 21 – APR 19 A disappointment early in the month will make you realize that you don’t have control over everything. Instead of letting it get you down, focus on what you can control. It’s a much better way to deal with letdowns. Change is on the way.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20 You will be called on for advice by a younger work associate. Be fair and truthful and you will help this person a great deal. In matters of the heart, a look to the past helps you make a decision for today. A Cancer friend does something to surprise you. Travel plans need some attention.

source: www.bluffton.com 160

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