bazaar March Issue 2016

March 2016 | Issue # 202

www.bazaar.town

USA

FRANCE

ITALY

shop an

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About the Cover:

March 2016 | Issue # 202

www.bazaar.town

Inspired by human emotion, digital and mixed media artist Fida Al Hussan has captivated our online feeds with her ethereal works. Our cover artist is based in Riyadh, KSA, yet her work speaks to people from all walks of life. Fida is inspired by every element of the human soul from anger, love to selfishness and delivers us with works that showcase her incredible use of patterns, and modern versus traditional elements.

This has been the mildest winter I can remember in K-town in years, and it's over. So much for pulling out the coats and sweaters that have been rotting at the back of my closet for over a year now. Other than those two days of intense cold when every single person in Kuwait shared the same pictures of snow covered cars out in the desert somewhere (I still think it was spray foam and a hoax by the way!), it's been extremely mild and pleasant weather all winter long. I do feel sorry for the clothing shops in the malls though; especially those who have had their winter collections on display since August.

The bazaar team...

Now that it’s almost beach weather again, I guess it's time to get out of hibernation mode and start going to the gym again. So check out one of Kuwait’s fantastic new options and read about the latest hidden gem we've uncovered for you! We dove head-first into a fitness and lifestyle burrow, aptly named The Burrow, to check out their intense regulation workout equipment. Box yourself into shape or simply follow the White Rabbit right into Boot camp to become beach-bod ready in no time. Disclaimer: you need to work on your nutrition plan too – it’s not magic you know! If working out isn’t for you, then you can get your heart pumping by cruising in the Porsche Boxster GTS. We test-drove this bad boy on a lazy Friday and never wanted to give it back!

Ahmed Al-Ashab

Our spring issue is making waves with our wonderfully talented coverartist Fida Art’s in-depth feature from neighboring Saudi Arabia regaling us with her incredible multi-media artworks. With a regional issue like this, we cross over to Dubai to meet our print heroes at Toil & Tinker – because print isn't dead and never will be, and take you to Egypt to meet photographer extraordinaire Omar Hikal. We also kept it local by getting up close and personal with the Kuwait Yacht Show guru Nouf Al Hajri while local artist and illustrator Nada Dalloul graciously invited us into her space for a fun game of truth or dare!

Communications

Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg Jamie Etheridge Maryann Horne Nejoud Al Yagout

members of:

As usual, we ate our way through Kuwait’s greatest offerings to find you two fantastic dining locations and a delivery concept that’s finger-licking good, just in time for Mother’s Day! Instead of dining with your usual crew, why not take your mom out for a fantastic meal? For the love of fancy Parisian dining, head on over to Fauchon’s Le Gourmet Café in Salhiya for the best Escargot and molecular gastronomy inspired desserts in town; you’ll thank us later! Still, there’s hope for the weather holding up for a little while longer – so why not visit to Souq Sharq and enjoy a glorious brunch at Baker and Spice? If lethargic afternoons are what you’re after, then order some of the heartiest southern home-fried chicken out there with a side of deliciously baked biscuits and give mom a well-deserved break from the kitchen! Where from, you ask?

Well, none other than Southern Fried Homicide, of course!

Contributing Photographers

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

Happy reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Operations Tim Burns

Business Development Ihab Mokalled

Design Cover Design Fida Al Hussan

Content Coordinator/Staff Writer Yasmine El Charif

Staff Writer/Online Media Amira Haroun

Staff Writer Lili Barras-Hargan Yasmine Dalloul Hala Y. Sharara

Printing

Editor

British Industries for Printing and Packaging

Alia Al Duaij

Contributing Writers

Muneera AlKhulaifi Noura Al Hajeri

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

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).

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.

maxmara

INDEX MAR '16

26 NUQAT STUDIO The people behind Nuqat have exceeded our expectations once more by providing yet another platform for Kuwait’s creatives to explore! Check out the story behind their 3-module 2016 Studio Nuqat program where participants have the opportunity to refine their Photography, Design and Entrepreneurial skills.

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SOUTHERN FRIED HOMICIDE

BAKER & SPICE

FAUCHON LE GOURMET

TOIL AND TINKER

We got our foodie on with Fauchon’s new menu Le Gourmet, allowing us to experience the tastes of chic Paris. Situated in their new Salhiya location, we had the time of our lives tasting their gastronomical masterpieces, and we know you will too!

What initially started as an expert in-house design team for all your branding, illustration and type concepts, has branched out into a space that can accommodate all things design. From events and workshops to affordable art fairs, Dubai-based Toil & Tinker aims to be the place that can start the love affair between you and the art of print.

If you love fried chicken and feel that Looking for a new breakfast spot? A you can’t find the perfect 8-piece chill space to get work done while combo in Kuwait, then look no nibbling on a tasty treat? Or maybe further, we’ve found what you’re you just miss the scenic vibes that looking for. This incredible delivery- Souq Sharq has to offer – either way, only concept is brand spanking new, we’re recommending Baker & Spice but that didn’t stop us from sinking as Kuwait’s new go-to eatery that’s our teeth into a review – and some that's now open. Be sure to check out killer good fried chicken done right! our sneak-peek review!

Nouf Al Hajri p.32

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BIBI AL GHANIM

NOUF AL HAJRI

We visit Maze Creative Concepts in Sun City, Shuwaikh, to explore the beautiful interior décor of Bibi Al Ghanim. Her latest collection, The Art Deco collection, is as beautiful as her previous works. We get the story behind her inspiration and how her pieces are made.

When life gives you lemons, you can end up making orange juice!

That was the case for Nouf Al Hajri, PH7’s General Manager and Project Manager for the prestigious annual Kuwait Yacht Show. We get Up Close and Personal with the brilliant optimist as she tells us about her career journey and how the event came to fruition.

28 NADA DALLOUL Some creatives don’t like having a lot of attention drawn to themselves, but when they're super talented, we like to track them down and get them to play our favorite game. This month’s truth or dare features illustrator Nada Dalloul; a true hidden treasure who’s name quietly glitters Kuwait’s pages and products.

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OMAR HIKAL

BURROW LIFE

Feeling a kinship to photographers, Inspired entirely by Lewis Caroll’s we just had to track down legendAlice’s Adventures in Wonderland, in-the-making Omar Hikal to get his The Burrow gym feels a little topsytwo cents on the long loved art form. turvy whilst packing a literal punch.

In this interview, Omar dishes his The bazaar team was lucky enough to love for photography, his travels, and find its way into this fitness haven and the inspiration for his coffee we stepped through the looking glass table book. into the gym to find out more.

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FIDA ART

MINT AND CO

Driven by human emotion, digital artist Fida Al Hussan has captivated our online feeds with her ethereal works. We sit down with the Riyadh based, KSA, Saudi-born artist to discuss her mixed media works, and how she believes that art allows us all to delve deeper into our souls to self-improve.

Comfort and customer satisfaction are two key elements to making any business work, especially when that business is a beauty salon and spa. Step into the world of Mint and Co as we introduce you to their services, atmosphere and the masterminds behind the concept – a place that quickly transforms you from customer to family.

puma

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With a bilingual audience of both English and Arabic, we cover everything from what’s on, to the bizarre. We print and distribute 10,000 copies of bazaar every month; each copy is read by an average of 3 people, giving us a total readership of over 30,000. bazaar is published every month (except August), delivered free of charge to a large subscriber database, and distributed free of charge in all of the following locations: Cafés & Eateries

Bredz Burger Hub, Gulf Road Café November, Kipco Tower, Shuwaikh Market Casper & Gambini, Kuwait City, Marina Crescent Chocolate Bar, Al Bida’a, Marina Crescent, Spoons Container 75, Jabriya

Costa Coffee Outlets: Al Argan Marina Crescent Miral Mall, Mangaf Kuwait Airport Saqran Mall Ghawalli Mall Sahara Shaab

Starbucks Outlets: Abdullah Mubarak Adeliya Airport Mall Al Mowasat Hospital Al Shaya Head Office Aliya & Ghalia Complex Andalouse Coop AUK Bairaq Mall Baitak Tower Behbehani Complex Bida’a Complex BMW Showroom Daiya Co-op Dar Al Awadi Divonne, Abu Hassaniya Four Points by Sheraton

Hilton Resort Jabriya Kaifan Khalifa Resort Kout Mall Marina Crescent Marina Mall Mishref NBK Nuzha Co-op Plaza Hawalli Rosa Castle Salhiya Salmiya, Salem Al-Mubarak Salmiya Co-op Salwa Co-op Scientific Center Seif Hospital Shaab Shamiya Co-op Sharq Co-op Sheikha Complex Sheikh Saed Al Abdullah Terminal Shuwaikh Zain Headquarters Souk Sharq The Avenues The Palms Hotel Zahra Co-op

Made Caffe Al Salam Mall November Bakery, Al-Tilal Organica Fish & Chips, Jabriya P.Q. - The Palms, Marina Mall Paul - The Avenues, Marina Mall Prime & Toast - Al Bida’a, Seif Strip Scoop-A-Cone - Egaila, Fahaheel Someday Café The Early Bird - Fahaheel, Jabriya Upper Crust - The Village

Other Outlets:

Al Corniche Club Crowne Plaza, Farwaniya, Salmiya Hilton Kuwait Resort & Spa Holiday Inn, Salmiya, Inspire Pure Fitness JW Marriott – Residence Inn, Sharq Millenium Hotel & Conference Center Pilates & More - Salmiya, Mahboula Spaloon The Palms Beach Hotel The Yoga Center

Crumbs, Shaab Dunkin Donuts, Mall 360 Elevation Burger, Abu Halifa, Al Bida’a, Al-Hamra, Avenues, Meshrif, Haagen Dazs - Souk Sharq, Arraya Johnny Rockets- opp. Salhiya Complex, Marina, Salmiya, The Avenues, Alia & Ghalia Complex Juan Valdez Café, Symphony Mall

members of: www.bpaww.com

Clinics & Hospitals

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

Hotels & Health Clubs

Malls

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

Stand Alones

4 Boutique Alghanim Marine Alghanim Showrooms - Safat Al Rai,

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

Schools & Universities American International School American University of Kuwait Australian College Kuwait Bayan School (Hawalli) Boxhill College BSK - British School of Kuwait Universal American School

Kuwait University Starbucks Starbucks Starbucks Starbucks

Khaldiya Adeliya Jabriya Shuwaikh

bazaar magazine has been a member of BPA Worldwide since June 2010, ensuring complete transparency, verifying bazaar as an audited publication which distributes 10,000 copies on a monthly basis. To access our BPA report, please visit: www.bpaww.com or log onto our website www.bazaar.town for a downloadable pdf version.

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In addition to delivering our readers with our monthly print installment of bazaar, we’re here to pick your brain daily with www.bazaar.town-- The ultimate guide to Kuwait! Packed with a little bit of everything for everybody, with daily updates on events in Kuwait, tips for life, inspiring interviews, polls, competitions, reviews, a classifieds section, and of course a comprehensive dining directory including addresses, telephone numbers, and links to each restaurant’s location on Google Maps, it will not disappoint!

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Too lazy to go pick up bazaar from your local café? Now you can browse through the complete physical magazine online via issuu.com. Featuring our indepth interviews, reviews, stellar photography, and the latest ads showcasing what’s hot in the market right now; you can browse through bazaar freely and securely, whether you're on your PC, laptop, Smartphone, or tablet.

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Avenues 22200756 - Arraya 22997755

what's on?

TASTE OF Q8 Date: March 17th – March 19th 2016 Location: Marina Crescent, Salmiya After the huge success of last year’s Taste Of Q8, Q8 Productions returns once more with the country’s original, premier, open-air food festival – an event that is sure to uncover the diversity of Kuwait’s dining and culinary community. The festival will feature a hefty selection of international cuisines, from the list of participating restaurants showcasing signature dishes, to the lineup of renowned Chefs from around the globe. Live music will also be enjoyed at the Taste of Q8, with a Main Stage featuring a variety of musical performers throughout the three-day event, providing atmospheric melodies of Classical, Arabic, and Jazz genres. Festival attendees can enjoy shopping and tasting at the Farmer's Market, an area that will feature local organic produce as well as locally made artisan food and products for purchase. And don’t forget about the little ones! The Taste of Q8 is also providing a fun, kid-friendly area for kids of all ages to enjoy, complete with games and activities, and kid-friendly food, beverages and snacks, available for purchase.

There’s something for everyone at the Taste of Q8! We hope to see you there!

For more information on The Taste Of Q8, visit www.q8foodfestival.com.

STUDIO NUQAT Date: March 1st – May 31st 2016 Location: AlMakan Studio, Kuwait City Studio Nuqat is here with a practical course series in photography, design and entrepreneurship & strategy.

The series is designed for a diverse array of people from different backgrounds who are looking to expand their skills and capacities. Studio Nuqat starts at square one – self-knowledge – then cycles through: the teaching and practice of practical skills, critical thinking, and business development. Studio Nuqat can be taken in its entirety or in parts – it is customizable to participants’ interests and needs.

For more details on this event, and other Nuqat news, visit www.nuqat.me.

GREEN CARAVAN FILM FESTIVAL Date: March 15th-March 23rd 2016 Location: Various (see below) The Green Caravan Film Festival is a project that has taken as its core mission, the encouragement and celebration of film as a force and medium for social change. Last year, during its 5th season, GCFF opened a new short film competition for Arab filmmakers in London where the Tunisian film The Purple House won an audience award. The GCFF Gulf Tour in March 2016 will include a new collection of Arab shorts for audiences to enjoy as well as a selection of hard hitting feature films. The festival will tour three Gulf countries starting in Kuwait at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre on the 15th of March and returning to Kuwait to close on the 23rd of March at CAP Rooftop.

Locations: Yarmouk Cultural Centre - Kuwait, Al Riwaq Art Space - Bahrain, Katara Art Center - Doha , Contemporary Art Platform - Kuwait For more information or enquiries, please contact team@thegreencaravan.com or info@thegreencaravan.com.

REUSE Dates: March 29th-April 4th 2016 Location: Various Over the course of seven days, in partnership with Zain Telecom (Kuwait) and co-curated by TodaysArt (Netherlands), REUSE will host a dynamic public program featuring participants from around the world and the local community. On day one, two and three of REUSE, a selection of happenings will take place around Kuwait City as a precursor for what’s to come. These happenings, will present an opportunity for international and local participants to connect with each other and the general public. On day four and five, REUSE will host an extensive two-day session of immersive audience experiences at DAI – Yarmouk. These sessions will feature interactive art, impromptu discussions, engaging collaborations, and more. When the sun sets, a series of live music and multimedia performances will close out each day in partnership with the Red Bull Music Academy. On day six and seven, REUSE will host a series of short talks and workshops around Kuwait City for the greater community.

Get the latest updates from REUSE at www.reuselabs.com and follow them on Instagram @reuselabs.

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what’s trending March 2016 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: @brwcoffee Info: Brand new artisanal coffee house in 360 Editor’s Note: Mmmm… iced latte…

What: @thetasteofq8 Info: Kuwait’s premier food festival from March 17, 18 and 19 Editor’s Note: Get your tickets now!

What: @eatrawkwt Info: A hot new sushi spot in Kuwait!

Editor’s Note: Highly recommended and mouth watering.

twitter.com/bazaartweets

pinterest.com/bazaarmagazine

What: @fidaart Info: Talented Saudi artist’s mixed media work Editor’s Note: Incredible use of patterns!

www.bazaar.town

What: @Xocolāt_kw Info: Handmade chocolate with innovative flavors Editor’s Note: Their Caramel Black Salt is out of this world!

instagram.com/bazaargram

What: @sfh.kwt Info: Killer good fried chicken and Southern sides Editor’s Note: Read more in this issue!

What: @bluezonekw Info: Cold pressed natural juice.

Editor’s Note: Refreshing and #healthy!

What: @quehaus Info: Online lifestyle store.

Editor’s Note: Curated by a young family for young families.

miriade

NUQAT STUDIO 2016

Make your creative dream a reality By bazaar staff

Every year, Nuqat provides the innovative people of Kuwait with a platform on which to expand their creative skills. In the upcoming 3-module 2016 Studio Nuqat program, participants have the unique opportunity to work closely with some of the most significant faces in the international arts and entrepreneurial scene. Between March 1st and May 31st, creatives from all backgrounds and levels of expertise will have the opportunity of refining their Photography, Design and Entrepreneurial skills. They will complete the course with tangible results, from improved software use to 3D designed products to utilize in their future careers.

The first module is called “Tasweer” and focuses on photography and street photography in par ticular. The course is led by photo gurus Djinane Al Suwayeh and the renowned Yvan Rode aka FaceHunter.

No matter the technical skill, hobbyists or professionals alike will benefit from taking par t in this course. The “Tasweer” module covers the Fundamentals of Photography.

After this, par ticipants are given an Initiation to Street Photography and are afforded the oppor tunity to learn about the histor y of the photography style, how to theoretically and practically implement it as well as properly curate their final shots.

Finally, individuals take par t in Por tfolio Reveals, where they showcase their work and creative advancements to their peers.

The respective par ts of the course take will place between March 6-8, 10-12 and 14-16.

Secondly, the “Tasmeem” module, run

by Raffi Tchakerian, The Design Studio

by Azza Fahmy, Bashar Assaf and Lilian Abou Zaki centers on fashion, jewelr y and product design in three 2-par t courses. It consists of a course in the Fundamentals of Design (March 24-26), which will prepare par ticipants for the transformation of an idea into a tangible product through use of 2D and 3D sketching and software use.

Once completing the introductor y course and attaining consent from the instructor, par ticipants would then be able to join the Introduction to Jewelr y Design and the Jewelr y Design I course. The same policy applies to the Introduction to Fashion Design (April 6-8) and Fashion Design I (April 10-12) courses. The Fashion Design courses give an over view of fashion as an industr y and how 26

it functions, from the design process to the final pricing and retailing. Par ticipants will identify their defining aesthetic foundation and build upon that with carefully selected colors and brand-identification. Finally, a Creative Entrepreneurship course (April 17-19) equips those involved with the skills necessar y to make their creative innovations a reality in the fashion market of our day and age.

The third – and last – module called “Tamkeen” concerns the Entrepreneurship and Strategy Program and is led by instructors Dr. Amar Behbehani, Vrouyr Jabounain, Sarah Thelwall and Raw Design Studio. The module is split into four different sections.

Between April 17 and 29, the Developing the Entrepreneur Within course will be led by Dr. Behbehani who will focus on the impor tance of creative thinking as a springboard for the successful conception of ideas. In order to unlock their executive functioning skills, par ticipants will additionally experience ar t and creative psychotherapy as a process.

This is exceedingly impor tant for the tailormade experience that is creating and implementing a concept or business idea.

The second course is led by Vrouyr Jabounain and focuses on Design Thinking (May 2-7). Aptly named “The Road to Star tup Success”, the course introduces

some of the core pillars of creative and practical innovation necessar y for the creation of a successful fashion brand, business idea or strategy through the study of case studies and practical activities.

The Creative Entrepreneurship course (May 23-25) aims to equip par ticipants with the skills necessar y to define business success and identify potential customers. Sarah Thelwall will instruct individuals on the impor tance of knowing what success means to them as innovative creatives. Once that is established, tangible goals can be set in place such as financial targets. Perhaps the most impor tant aspect of this course is the understanding of the role of money in a business and making sure the relationship one has with the monetar y aspect of the concept remains healthy and sustainable.

Lastly, the Branding and Concept Strategy (May 29-31) course will allow par ticipants to establish and build upon their brand. This will be run by the highly successful Kuwaitbased design agency specializing in ser vice design as well as branding.

For more information about the 2016 Nuqat Studio modules, visit www.nuqat.me, email info@nuqat.me or call 2227 9325.

You can follow them on Instagram @Nuqat, Twitter @Nuqatweets and Facebook: NuqatME.

adolfo

truth or dare

MAKING FINGERS “FING” Nada Dalloul By bazaar staff

The relationship between hand and pen seems to be lost in the digital age of technology, but park local artist Nada Dalloul in front of a clean sheet of paper and magic will happen. “I’ve been drawing my whole life – my mother says the very first illustration I made was when I was as a young child, about three or four, when I sketched a rabbit thinking about a carrot.” Born and bred in Kuwait, Nada completed both her undergraduate and graduate degrees abroad, and since her return to the homeland from Montreal in 2007, the Palestinian Lebanese hybrid has had pieces of her work show up in discretion all over Kuwait – and discretion is key with this talented behind-thescenes artist who doesn’t particularly enjoy drawing attention to herself.

Nada has designed prints, advertisements, illustrated graphic novels, coloring books, sold original paintings, published a comic strip, and has even displayed her paintings – described as masterpieces that embrace the depth, beauty and realities of human culture – in a casual gallery setting housed by a cafe in Beirut. “I like to make fingers fing” is her whimsical explanation for her artwork, where the human body is a recurring topic.

With a BFA in Animation and a Master’s Degree in Design with Learning and Teaching, Nada continues to quietly showcase her work within the pages of Kuwait, while teaching art at a local college. To her students, Nada is seen as a tough critic but also as an inspiration, helping them find their artistic voices to translate onto canvas.

With some coaxing, we’ve managed to drag Nada away from her sanctuary; an in-house studio consisting of her piano (a 20+ year skill that not many realize she has), easel, potted plant whimsically named “Robert” and Joni Mitchell records to play our favorite game – gather ye round, for this is definitely a rare occasion!

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Stubborn.

How would you describe your mother in one word?

Loud.

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?

“How do I use a ruler?”

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Moved to Montreal in 2002 with only 24 hours notice.

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What is your theme song?

“007” (Shantytown) by Desmond Dekker.

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Apropos.

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

Live: London.

Retirement: undecided (as long as there’s Internet and the beach.)

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

"She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it)." -Lewis Carroll.

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Seahorse or dog... a seadog. *Editor’s note: you mean a seal?

What do you miss about your childhood?

(Longer) Naps, illusions, and Judy Blume.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I wouldn't change my name.

How would you describe your handshake in one word?

Clumsy.

What is the toughest part of your character?

My pickiness.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Roger Waters- historical figure in the making.

What in the world do you least desire?

Clubbing.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?

Whimsy and genuineness.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

I've been told I'm charming.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”

Uneventful Fridays.

reebok

AXIS OF ADVENTURE A travel enthusiast looks at the endless opportunities offered by Kuwait’s enviable position on the globe.

By Mar yann Horne

Let's face it. Kuwait is in the middle of nowhere. It's sandy. Dusty. Polluted and traffic stricken. Too cold and then too hot, I hear you complain. But rejoice! By being in the middle of such a barren region, one of Kuwait’s main attractions is that it’s also half way to somewhere.

Its airpor t is one of the easiest to travel through and its gates open to hundreds of destinations half way around the world.

With over five daily connections to the international travel hubs of Doha and Dubai and from our GCC perch, the world is pretty much our oyster.

As travel addicts, one of our favorite pastimes as a family is to open a good old fashioned dusty Atlas and plot new adventures. When we return, we stick pins in a map spread on a corkboard that reminds us that we’ve kept our sanity by regularly escaping and filling our head with new sights, smells and horizons.

Living in Kuwait has meant feeling like a kiddie in a sweet shop. And these are just some of the tried and tested destinations we recommend.

Within 3 hours Doha: Been there and done Dubai? Why not relax in the up and coming pearl of the GCC. As the countr y embarks on a vast program of modernization, tourism and culture is top of the agenda. Why not visit the Islamic Ar t museum, a sister of the pearl of a building with a breath-taking collection before sampling some of the world’s most refined Japanese cuisine at the newly opened NOBU. Muscat: Oman is where the mountains of the Arabian peninsula star t, giving the entire countr y a rugged and enchanting feel.

The ear th is redder and colors more vibrant than anywhere else in Arabia. The souk is one of the oldest and most atmospheric of the region, still bustling with African ar tefacts and spices dating back to the days the Sultanate’s capital was in Zanzibar. Best months to travel are Februar y to May. 30

Within 5 hours Malaysia: Magic Malaysia truly captures the essence of this county with as many faces as its landscape. Nature and diving fans will love spending time in nearby Borneo, with some of the world’s best diving in Sipadan while city slickers will mar vel at the delights of Kuala Lumpur, which boasts one of the world’s most famous Islamic museums and handbag markets. Shop till you drop and refill on Chinese street cuisine as you turn the corner on the whitewashed colonial buildings of the capital.

Turkey: Saddled between East and West, the countr y is fast becoming one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

The Taurus mountains offer incredible hiking oppor tunities, while the Bodrum coast exudes character with atmospheric small fishing villages dotted along its coast.

Istambul’s Blue Mosque and souk, feet from the mysterious Bosphorus, are all time

musts for anyone wanting to be captured by the city’s enchanting histor y and place in modern histor y.

Within 8 hours Nepal and Bhutan: Getaway to one of the most mystical and peaceful regions, Nepal and Bhutan are on the summit of the world.

Katmandu offers day excursions into the belly of the Himalayas if you are on a short break.

The closed kingdom of Bhutan can also be explored for a short break from Nepal and is said to be one of the “happiest” and colorful places on earth.

Maldives: Escaping to Indian Ocean paradise has never been easier than from Kuwait. Stop over in Sri Lanka and make it a romantic getaway by making the most of hotels in hundreds of different atolls. Charter flights also fly from Dubai to Male, making DIY last minute holidays something to consider. If you are about to pop the question or celebrate your wedding, there is only one place to do it.

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up close and personal

NOUF AL HAJRI EDITOR, EVENT PLANNER, MANAGER By bazaar staff

It’s funny how in life, we tend to start out working towards a certain career path that would only lead us somewhere else. This was the case with Nouf Al Hajri, who’s six-year journey with PH7 Group, one of Kuwait’s leading publishing houses, led her to eventually operate the Group as General Manager and Project Manager for the prestigious annual Kuwait Yacht Show. A true optimist, it is Nouf’s unwavering belief that there is goodness in everyone, anything and everything, that directs all of her energy toward making her projects succeed.

With an educational background in political science and international relations, Nouf’s career in publishing came as a surprise to her. “My journey with PH7 Group began back in 2010 when my sister was working as an editor for the group and she had to leave to continue her studies. The publishing house was looking for a replacement and she had nominated me based on my ridiculous collection of Moleskines filled with thoughts on life, personal diaries, quotes and Arabic poems. PH7 had introduced Arabic at that time to one of its publications and I fit the post. I started as a Junior Editor for Men’s Passion, then Senior Editor of THE TALK, and Managing Editor for Seas & Deserts until I was appointed General Manager of the Group.”

Armed with the belief that content should always have a purpose and goal in both the short and long term sense, she embarked on her journey with an open mind and her collection of notebooks, and never looked back. To this day, Nouf always gets a thrill out of the ability to create, be it in publishing or the events that PH7 are renowned for successfully managing. She said, “I’ve also been privileged to have built so many great relationships with industry leaders, business owners, governmental bodies gaining invaluable lessons from the best people in our society through my journey with PH7. Even the challenges and hurdles we faced, they gave us an incredibly resilient attitude in the face of hardships.”

Two years into Nouf’s journey with the publishing Group, she experienced their first 32

event: the successful 2012 launch of Azimut Yachts on behalf of their client, Seas & Deserts group. This inspired the team to build on the Gulf nation’s love of the sea and marine lifestyle – and thus the Kuwait Yacht Show was born, and as Project Manager of the newly formed events division for PH7 group, Nouf is truly a valuable member in making the KYS the grand annual event it has been for the past three years. The task can be daunting, but she’s always ready to tackle it and turn it into something spectacular!

“Managing KYS is a privilege that comes with great responsibilities. Luckily, I have grown not to believe in barriers. If one has a vision, one has to persevere and be prepared for all the inevitable obstacles that need to be overcome.”

Since its inception in 2013, the KYS has been adding new elements with every new edition. Their hard work truly paid off when the

team first launched the event with the presence of five Kuwaiti Ministers of State. “After the First Edition, our crowning achievement was to secure the Prime Minister’s patronage. Securing his patronage has put us on a completely different level. It has made us more determined to give Kuwait an annual show befitting its heritage and vision. So, for 2014 and the Second Edition, we doubled the size of the First and it started encompassing more international exhibitors and regional exhibitors - these were the highlights of the Second Edition. The 2015 Third Edition’s highlight was our step towards securing membership of the International Federation of Boat Show Organizers (IFSBO).

In 2015 we became part of this prestigious organization, we satisfied all their rules and regulations and we became international. Now, the Kuwait Yacht Show is recognized on the

international calendar of boat shows and is part of a global organization.”

Nouf paints a vision of the KYS today, “Attendees of the annual KYS have the possibility to see and experience all the exciting and new happenings the marine industry has to offer from the latest boats and yachts, marine engines and accessories, fishing gear, diving centers and a combined mix of marine lifestyle exhibits offering the complete visitor experience, with something for everyone.

The opening ceremony for this year’s edition included an air show by Kuwait Air Force inline with a water formation by the Coast Guard all while the Maritime Rescue Tugboat unleashed water fountains 20 meters far as a sign of opening the show. Sea trials were conducted in the morning before the show opened and guests had an all-yachts-access experience.”[ . . . c o n t i nu e d ] 33

[...continued] This year’s edition, having taken place from the 1st- 4th of February 2016, was the most successful yet, with the involvement of eleven Middle Eastern and Gulf premieres.

“The value of the products exhibited was 25 to 30 percent larger than the previous editions more than USD 100 million dollars so; we can say that the Fourth Edition was truly our best yet!”

Something Nouf could definitely be proud of, as she celebrated the end of another successful Yacht Show in her favorite way after dismantling the venue: heading home, straight to bed for uninterrupted sleep.

The avid traveler and busy bee General Manager is a true inspiration to us all, and we can’t help but marvel at how she manages to take on so much responsibility, and now the personal journey that is motherhood, with such poise! Because every admirable leader must be recognized, we’ve decided to get Up Close and Personal with Nouf, hoping she’ll give us an answer to the age old question: “I wonder how she does it?”

What do you most value in your friends?

Integrity.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

On a beach in a private island with my husband.

What is your greatest fear?

The Avenues on Friday.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

Overanalyzing.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Narcissism.

Which living person do you most admire?

I don’t know personally but admire - Deepak Chopra.

I know personally and admire – Zeina Mukaddam.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Travel.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Seriously? Are you kidding me?

What is it that you most dislike?

Hypocrisy.

Which talent would you most like to have?

A photographic memory! Or is it a gift? Both ways I would love to have it.

If you could have any job, what would it be?

The president of the United States.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

Finding myself.

What is your most treasured possession?

My life.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Too idealistic.

Where would you most like to live?

Barcelona, Spain.

What are your favorite words to live by?

Tomorrow is not a promise. Laugh, love, forgive – Live and let live.

Follow Nouf on Twitter and Instagram @noufilosophy.

Photography by Noura Al Hajeri.

34

redbull

TOIL & TINKER

Work hard, play hard – print fabulously By bazaar staff

T&T Founder Paul Green

One must always toil, in order to tinker. Granted that in this instance to toil is to work hard and to tinker is to play – “two very important notions to what we do here,” states founder Paul Green – Toil & Tinker is your goto creative hub for all things print and design. What initially started as an expert in-house design team for all your branding, illustration and type concepts, has branched out into a space that can accommodate all things design. From events and workshops to affordable art fairs, Dubai-based Toil & Tinker aims to be the place that can start the love affair between you and the art of print.

“We want to create a community of print enthusiasts!” Paul exclaims, “I’d like to think we are all print enthusiasts at heart – but 36

it’s the ones that appreciate the process of the work, from start to finish, who truly are enthusiasts.” Never ones to pin digital against print, Toil & Tinker believe there’s room in the world for both mediums to grow and thrive. Yet the thing with print is its tangibility, as Paul put it, “ [print has] that smell, the texture and depth that you can never achieve digitally.” As a community, Toil & Tinker is a haven for those in need of a cup of coffee while getting their geek-on over what makes paper and print great. The relationship between shop and customer is blurred when everyone is passionate about the same thing, it all adds to the hub’s personality.

Offering free Internet, and Dubai’s homegrown Seven Fortunes fueling all T&Ters with much needed caffeine, Toil & Tinker have proven that they’re a place to work, play and learn. According to Paul, a typical day at Toil & Tinker involves “Designing, printing, socializing, learning and drinking

lots of coffee!” More than just a hub, Toil & Tinker also have a retail section! Creating their own designs as prints, totes and other merchandise is one of the many things they sell there. They also collaborate with people that inspire them – “whether that’s Nobrow Publishing from the UK who supply us with their beautiful books for our retail shop, or local designers such as Khalid Mezaina who we plan to sell prints and notepads with – it’s an eclectic mix and we’re really proud of that.” Their retail space is curated brilliantly and is definitely worth checking out.

Inspiration is key for Toil & Tinker. With regularly occurring events and workshops, they bring print enthusiasts together to learn, show, and sell the pieces they create! Catering to everyone, Toil & Tinker won’t judge those that lack interest in print, they embrace them and let them do their thing. “There’s no snobbery here, we like to think of ourselves as the peoples print shop,” Paul laughed. [continued...]

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[...continued] Not only do Toil & Tinker offer workshops and events, they will also soon be offering certifications. Great news for all aspiring printers out there. With their very own Print Club in the works, T&Ters can join in the fun. Gaining a certification with Toil & Tinker will offer you the opportunity to hang out and watch the process, and utilize their facilities upon subscription. “The T&T Print Club is currently in the works which will give members the ability to come in, use our facilities and print their own work once being trained on how to use the equipment,” Paul explained, “It’ll be a great way to hone in the print community here in Dubai and encourage up and coming designers, illustrators and print makers to have the skill of doing it themselves.”

A young enterprise, they’ve only been around for two years in Dubai, but expanding workshops into Kuwait and the rest of the region is definitely a possibility for them. That said, as they continue to grow and evolve, their exploration within the region will follow and they’re excited to see where the future takes them. Ever sharing their love of print and design, Toil & Tinker has made it to the top of our Dubai excursion list.

The services offered at Toil & Tinker delivers the team infinite possibilities.

According to Paul, “The more paper we print, the more people we meet, the more equipment we get in.” Everything is connected – from their services to their retail space. Always open to learning new things, Toil & Tinker don’t shy away from knowledge, they relish it.

Knowing that the more they learn the better they can serve their clientele, the opportunity to flourish and stand out is what keeps them going. So naturally, targeting start-ups and small business is what they love most – “We feel like we offer them a great and personal service.” With Dubai and UAE’s rapidly growing market for food trucks, small cafes and bistros, Toil & Tinker help them find the branding they require with lots of love and support.

When asked what’s next for them, Paul simply reinforced the Print Club in motion and added, “We’ve also got lots of new equipment planned to come in this year so keep your eyes peeled!” And that is something we will definitely be doing – as well as hoping they come to Kuwait soon! Print on and prosper Toil & Tinker, for you are truly there to remind people that print will never die.

What are you waiting for? Follow Toil & Tinker on Facebook and Instagram @toilandtinker for more information. And if you’re ever in Dubai, be sure to drop by to check out their awesome space in person. All photos provided are courtesy of Carl from Zebra Photography.

38

solaris

A-MAZE-ING!

A sneak peek at Maze Creative Concepts’ latest collection By bazaar staff

When you walk into Maze Creative Concepts, you can’t help but feel a sense of pride for the Arab world’s beautiful and historic heritage.

Surrounding you are gorgeous, ornate pieces that reflect a complex culture integrated with modernity in the form of finely crafted staples that would bring warmth to any home. All these pieces are designed by decorating genius Bibi Al Ghanim, who’s passion for artisanal pieces and furniture married beautifully to create the haven that is Maze.

“It all started with a cushion,” Bibi reminisces in response to the quintessential question of how it all started. Maze was born in 2009, after Bibi explored her design potential by sketching her ideas and forming them into a series of cushions – the ideal accent pieces for any space – that showcased a colorful theme of sorts.

Joining forces with her longtime Syrian friend and partner, Bibi created Maze Creative Concepts in 2009, integrating original concepts with classic cultural principals to create artisanal masterpieces for the home.

Appropriately named the Art Deco Collection, the most recent selection of pieces is all about the use of mother of pearl elements coupled with modern art deco influences, resulting in an array of home accents vivid with cultural adaptations such as Islamic Art elements and Syrian design. One of Bibi’s favorite items to work on was the classic bureau – a commode containing rows of drawers to store all types of goodies, celebrating a back-to-basics ethos that furniture should embody. With mother of pearl detailing throughout, this versatile piece can stand in any room as a decorative item or a furniture staple. Other pieces that stand out are the coffee and side tables – staples made with Arabesque and modern influences in mind. If low and rounded side tables tickle your fancy, look no further, as the matching set of two act as an ideal pair that will work with any furniture set.

Couches, lounges and armchairs are also a part of Maze’s resume, canvased with modern fabric accents designed by both Bibi and the renowned Andrew Martin, and she vehemently sings his praises “I love Andrew’s work,” Bibi swoons. “I’ve worked with him for three years and I feel that our designs compliment each other very well.” Between Martin’s fabrics and genuine English leather sourced from Bibi’s cowhides in London, her chairs and couches boast western influences that only enhance her love for ethnic patterns and old-school design principles, creating works of art that can be passed on from generations to generations.

But Maze isn’t all about furniture – it offers a range of lovely decorative items for the home that celebrate Arabesque tradition and art.

“I believe that everybody deserves to have a piece of artisana in their home, which is why I feel I price my items very reasonably”. Maze’s clientele is centered around those who wish to fill their homes with beautiful pieces and quiet yet traditional statements that will last them a 40

long time – and she also directs her attention towards those of us who are just starting out: “I especially feel that it is important for youngsters, newlyweds, people who have just bought their first home or office to have my pieces. They celebrate culture and a touch of tradition is vital in any home.”

As an interior design enthusiast, Bibi has also taken her love for designing spaces to the next level by offering Maze’s designing services to the public. Maze provides Bibi’s expertise to those who are looking to furnish a house, a room, or an office space, and she’s always more than happy to do it – even if it’s just adding her input towards a missing piece or a minor renovation. She also dishes her secrets behind what makes a living space beautiful: “The one thing that is the most important when putting a room

together—make sure that the walls are soft in color to leave room for playing with wallpaper accents.” And her pearl of wisdom she’d like to pass on to other designers?

“Give yourself the time to create, and don’t be afraid of influence and inspiration – but never copy.”

So if you fancy yourself a gorgeous one-of-a-kind piece by the amazeing Bibi Al Ghanim, be sure to check out Maze in Sun City complex Shuwaikh Industrial. They also have an exhibition in Dar Hamad on March 22nd to March 25th, titled Hana Yawmi, showcasing their gorgeous handmade collection of the season.

Photography by Muneera AlKhulaifi.

Follow them on Instagram @mazecc and on Facebook: Mazecc1.

jeep

DIGITIZING HUMAN EXPRESSION Introducing digital artist Fida Al Hussan By bazaar staff

Driven by human emotion, digital artist Fida Al Hussan has captivated our online feeds with her ethereal works. Based in Riyadh, KSA, the Saudiborn artist believes that art allows us all to delve deeper into our souls to self-improve. She is inspired by every element of the human soul, from anger, love to selfishness and harassment—all of these aspects drive Fida to deliver us with her incredible use of patterns, arabesque symbols and seamlessly fusing the western with the oriental through her mixed media works.

When did you first become interested in art?

Since childhood, I considered myself a painter. I was inclined to draw animations until my teens, and loved ar t direction and creating video clips for my brothers. Then I learned how to take my ideas onto the computer and work with Photoshop.

Are you a full time ar tist? If so, how did you arrive at this point in your life?

Yes, I am an ar tist. I used to work privately and did not par ticularly think about displaying my work, until I decided to par ticipate in the first exhibition of Saudi ar t. I was surprised by the number of

42

those interested in my work and the rapid response I received, especially winning best graphic designer by strong corporations.

There was no classification yet for digital ar t, and I have not stopped since then.

How do you create your beautiful pieces?

Works of ar t that are done through mixed digital media, which includes photographs and different graphic drawings and colors with oil paints and charcoal water colors are all incorporated into a digital frame, from which I create my ar t using all those elements.

What inspires your work?

Fashion, music, the streets the different peoples' heritage of clothes, colors and cultures all captivate me. I hope our ar t will have something that will distinguish us for future generations.

How have viewers reacted to your work?

I am delighted and amazed by the different c ultures, nationalities and religions who share the sam e v iews about my ar t. This is really inspiring and I am pleased with the c lear agreement am ong people and their f eelings towards the ar twor k.

Can y ou tel l us m ore about y our col l ecti on of ar twor ks f or 2 0 1 6 ?

I hav e lots of wor k ov er the c oming y ear with ar tists, TV shows and v ideo c lips as an Ar t Direc tor, as well as v arious ex hibitions in Dubai, and Jeddah. I am also looking f orward to wor k on c haritable ex hibitions whic h c an c ontribute to solv ing humanitarian c rises.

Where have you exhibited your work in the region?

Currently, my work has been exhibited online through my manager, and cer tain private exhibitions in Saudi Arabia.

What is the most challenging par t of your ar tistic career so far?

After working on the development of the basic digital curriculum for the Princess Noura University of Ar ts, I don’t find students building their identity or creating their own work. It has become frustrating seeing people copy others’ work, and printing widely without permission. Ar t creativity and my business have been growing and I did not find difficulties, but my concern is always the selection of good oppor tunities.

What’s next for Fida Ar t?

Lots of collaboration amongst fellow ar tists and exhibitions this year.

Follow Fida Al Hussan on Instagram @FidaArt. For more information, visit: www.fidaar t.por tfoliobox.me/about-me.

43

WIZARDS OF WOM

By Nejoud Al Yagout

Just last year, in April of 2015, three brilliant minds – Abdullah AlKhulaifah, who is studying to be a clinical psychologist, Mamuna Sarwar – an educator - and Fatma AlHamad, an architect - got together to collectively give birth to Word of Mouth Kuwait, a forum for poets to publicly recite their poems in their language of choice. In less than a year, WOM has organized three successful poetry events. Though poetry has always been a part of our culture, the scene itself – which appeared to be a burgeoning underground movement in the last couple of decades – has only recently, and finally, bubbled to the surface.

Many people are noticing a shift and the timing was right for WOM to pave its way into the hearts and minds of those living in K-city. The international vibe of both the poets and the audience brings about a sense of unity, which is palpably experienced at a WOM event. The wizards of WOM are surely preparing for many events ahead. In the meantime, I present to you the two lovely ladies who are currently holding the WOM fort: Mamuna and Fatma. Their co-creator, Abdullah, has recently moved to Scotland, but his presence is felt here.

Your first show was an instantaneous hit.

It must have even exceeded your own expectations! Tell us more about your debut WOM event.

MS: Our debut WOM event was an exciting experience. The concept of WOM as a platform for multilingual performances had only been conceptualized a month prior, and there we were, holding our ver y first event. It was a daunting task, and one that required all of our energy. We were all putting in 5-6 days per week for this event, in addition to our daily jobs. Once preparation was complete - and we had figured out the logistics including the venue, seating, social media promotion, programs, poets performing et cetera - all that remained was executing the event and making sure that it would run 44

Mamuna Sarwar in a smooth manner. I can honestly say I probably had hear t palpitations throughout most of that evening, just because I, along with the other WOM members wanted it to be received well. We were not worried about WOM gaining popularity; rather we wanted to showcase quality work, as our names were attached to the WOM label. When the night finally ended, we were all ver y proud of what we had accomplished, and we received wonderful feedback. This gave us the motivation to continue expanding WOM and have more consistent events.

FH: The turn-out at our first event was actually a surprise to us - a pleasant one.

We didn't expect that kind of response to poetr y. Apparently, people want to express themselves and most of all people want someone to express for them.

In the last poetr y event that you organized, you were par t of Nuqat’s insightful “Copy and Paste Syndrome”. There is a ver y thin line between inspiration and imitation.

What is your take on the matter at hand?

FH: A poet must have a style in writing that has to be his/her own style and not copied from someone else. Poetr y has a lot to do with writing from experience; many can go through the same experiences but what differs is the point of view of each and ever y one of us. A smar t writer, a good writer - in my opinion - makes us feel and understand this experience. Mark Twain said, “Write what you know.” There is beauty in the face of truth; it can be recognized and sensed, even under the best disguise.

These days, poets are no longer confined to structure and rhyme. Even a two-lined billboard adver tisement can take our breath away. So what makes a poet stand out, in your opinion?

MS: For me, I really enjoy poetry that is raw, that evokes some type of emotion; that displays a person’s insecurities, failures and fears. I think nowadays we are too caught up in presenting the world with a “pictureperfect” image of how our lives should be. Very few people want to open themselves [continued...]

flamant

[...continued] up and reveal their vulnerabilities.

I think it is amazing when a person can go through adversity or tr ying times, and want to share that with the world. It gives hope to so many who may be in a similar position.

Being vulnerable is what I consider great poetr y. I’m not talking about the cliché I’ve-had-my-hear t-broken-and-want-to-shareit-with-the-universe type of vulnerability, but more so the vulnerability of people who have fallen so many times, bloody, with scraped knees and all, but continue to lift themselves up and rise above. To share that experience with the world is a beautiful thing.

FH: I think confinement can be both good and bad for poetr y. When it comes to the basic rules, I do think we have to apply them at least. It can be as simple as ‘it sounds right’; but the main thing that makes a poet stand out from the others is his or her style.

I think poetr y is an ar t form that has to come from within, naturally.

You and Fatma are both poets in your own right.

Has mingling with fellow poets on a regular basis changed your perception of verse?

MS: To be quite honest, I was never one to stick with the traditional structure and rhythm of poetry, and I grew up following poets who varied in writing style. Basically, meeting other poets has not changed my perception of verse; it has only strengthened my belief that poetry can come in many forms and styles and does not need to be constricted. I’ve been fortunate enough to encounter many talented poets and, with each encounter, I am able to take a little bit here and there. It has provided inspiration for me to continue on with my writing journey. One thing I must also add is that I do not really consider myself a poet, as my work is very much still developing. I would have to say that I am a premature writer working her way up! [laughs] FH: It definitely helps. It can be another source of inspiration; you cannot identify your own style if you don’t see the way others write.

There is nothing such as ‘the best poet’. It is a matter of taste, and the more you get to know poets the more you will acknowledge that taste.

The crowd at your events is eclectic. What is about poetry that is so magnetic?

MS: I feel like poetry is a magical art form.

It alters our world, it changes our perception of ourselves, and it challenges us to explore bigger possibilities. I know that when I read a great poem, it leaves me feeling a wealth of emotions, and I genuinely enjoy the journey I was taken on. It’s quite fascinating when you can read a poet’s work, such as Rumi or Khalil Gibran, and be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, from feeling melancholic to angry, excited to joyful. Poetry has a wonderful way of doing that. It has a great way of providing 46

Fatima Al-Hamad an escape, but on the flip side, it can also be politically and socially conscious.

FH: We do not only love the crowd; it is the response and the engagement that we cherish and strive to keep in every event. We aim for variety in our events; in terms of language and topic, we cannot bore the crowd with the same topics and the same style. A reaction - a positive reaction - is what we aim to get from our audience; and one more important thing: we want them to come back.

WOM is almost a year old now. You’re growing fast! So what’s next?

MS: There are a lot of changes that have occurred since WOM came into fruition a year ago. One of our partners moved to Scotland to pursue his Master’s degree, and I, unfortunately, will also be returning to my home and permanent place of residence, Canada, to continue my career in education.

My hope is that WOM continues to thrive. For the future, we aspire to hold WOM events throughout the Middle East, and even possibly North America. We may do more collaborative

work, and expand our audience. I have large ambitions, as I often tend to think on a large scale - a habit I developed as a child, but I am aware that a lot more work needs to be put in for us to reach that level of success. I’m definitely eager to see where WOM takes us!

FH: To be frank, we star ted this simply because we wanted a place for poets to come together and express themselves.

We are ecstatic that there is a niche here for that, but we did not expect this feedback. Also, we would rather grow slowly and succeed, than grow rapidly and fail. We aim to cater to more events, and ‘consistency’ - as Mamuna always reminds us - is ver y impor tant. We always want to maintain the best standards for our audience and poets. We aim to give back to society – Kuwait, first and foremost and hopefully internationally, in the future.

For more information check out @wordofmouthkw on Instagram or Facebook: Word Of Mouth.

meem

47

SHERLOCK, THE ABOMINABLE BRIDE

Exclusive interview with Benedict Cumberbatch By bazaar staff

When we first started seeing promos of a brand new BBC First channel airing on OSN, it was all we could talk about!

Sherlock, Dickensian, War and Peace and Luther, to name a few—all available on one channel. It was done, our calendars were marked for February 1st, and we were good to go. However, when we were told that we had access to an exclusive with none other than Sherlock, The Abominable Bride’s Benedict Cumberbatch who takes on the thrilling role of consulting detective Sherlock Holmes, this entire office collapsed into a fit of excited giggles.

Set in 1895, Sherlock, The Abominable Bride delivers on our favorite things about the show: Friendship, adventure and especially, MURDER! While we loved the adaptation of this classic to a modern era, seeing the world's most famous consulting detective and his best friend live in a Baker Street of steam trains, hansom cabs, top hats and frock-coats will blow your mind. Why is Thomas Ricoletti a little surprised to see his wife dressed in her old wedding gown? Because, just a few hours before, she took her own life. Mrs. Ricoletti's ghost now appears to be prowling the streets with an unshakeable thirst for revenge. From a fog-shrouded Limehouse to the bowels of a ruined church, Holmes, Watson and their friends must use all their cunning to combat 48

an enemy seemingly from beyond the grave and the final, shocking truth about...the Abominable Bride!

We spoke with the incredible Sherlock to learn more about the latest series.

We are used to Sherlock being set in modern times - what did you make of the Victorian setting?

I thought it was madness. I thought they'd finally lost the plot, jumped the shark, all the other clichés of television gone mad with itself.

Then they expanded the idea and pitched it to me properly and I think it's fantastic. Absolutely brilliant.

How will fans react to the Victorian setting?

I don't really know how the fans are going to react to it. I think that's one of the joys of doing it like this. You know, we can't disguise the fact that we're filming it and often filming it in cities or public places where people are going to take snapshots of us dressed in Victorian kit. We haven't disappointed fans in the past it seems so hopefully this won't. I hope they enjoy it.

What was it like being transported back in time?

Great fun to play, and I mean, great, great fun. To muck around with a pipe and a deerstalker for real is wonderful. And then, as far as the background goes, the setting, the mise en scène, the scenery, all the rest of it, it's just a delight. It always is with period drama. You kind of marvel at it.

What do you make of the global success of Sherlock?

I think the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes has always been global, actually, I don't think

this is a phenomenon tied in with our success. I think it's to do with Conan Doyle's extraordinary invention which has a universal appeal to all nationalities. This is a man who's an outsider, who's intelligent, who doesn't tolerate mediocrity, who is incredibly efficient, but also has his weaknesses and comeuppances. I think the ability to turn the mundane, average and normal into a pop-up world of potential adventure, which is what I've always been saying about him both on and off the page in our version and in the original books, is that you never know where it's going to lead. There's an endless amount of potential adventure.

What’s the funniest thing that happened on the set of The Abominable Bride?

Martin Freeman is probably the funniest thing that happened on set. He tends to be quite funny in general. So, when he’s on set, he's funny. It's a weak answer, but it's the truth - you don't have to look far for comedy on set.

Sherlock is written and created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, and inspired by the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Sherlock is produced by Sue Vertue and the executive producers are Beryl Vertue, Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat for Hartswood Films, Bethan Jones for BBC Cymru Wales and Rebecca Eaton for Masterpiece. Sherlock, The Abominable Bride was commissioned by Charlotte Moore, Controller of BBC One and Ben Stephenson, former Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning.

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OMAR HIKAL Eternal wanderings of a shutter-happy soul By bazaar staff

Ethereal imagery and capturing the true essence of his subject’s soul – “serial entrepreneur” (his words, not ours) Omar Hikal has an extraordinary talent. A self professed photography addict, this Cairene [resident of Cairo, Egypt] took his first shot at a young age and didn’t put his camera down since – save for a brief hiatus that lasted a good fifteen years, but who’s really counting. On a journey of rediscovery, Omar has spent the last ten years remembering the joys of photographing people and day-today scenes from all around the world.

With his wife, Samar, and their two boys: Zein and Seif, Omar found the perfect muses to hone his skill.

On and off with his photography, Omar found himself focusing on the more “impor tant” things in life and pursuing a career while sacrificing his hobbies.

Driven by the photography guidance he had during school and his more independent researches, he reache for his camera once more in 1998 and picked up where he left off. “It wasn't until around 2005 when I caught the bug and realized that photography would have to be a key par t of my life,” and he hasn’t looked back since. Today, Omar has a beautiful coffee-table book and a couple of galler y exhibitions under his belt – proving that reconnecting with old hobbies is wor thwhile.

We managed to track him down after his latest photography excursion in India to ask him about the thing he enjoys most, photography.

When was the moment you knew you had to jump back into photography?

I don't think there was any one moment, it was a process. I spent the first few years studying and getting to a level of technical ability that allowed me to feel comfor table with the camera again. I took advantage of whatever oppor tunities presented themselves and to learn from photographers whose work I admired, and then, I just shot.

I shot ever ything! My kids, my friends, and even strangers.

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What do you mean when you claim that photography is a “literal escape?”

I try to take a couple of trips a year where I am just shooting. It takes me away in every way a different place, different language, different culture and different people. I gain a ton of perspective on what's important and how happiness comes from the most unexpected sources – never what we think. Places like Cuba make you realize that happiness is about the people around you and about love and about music, not about material things at all. I kept hearing Cubans say (over drinks) how they "are poor, but happy." That's an escape that we often need.

Can you tell us about your traveling photography adventures? Which trip do you consider is the most memorable to you and why?

I would have to pick Cuba.

Cuba was special in every way. Photographically speaking, it represented the departure from the very technical approach I exhibited previously. I realized that sometimes we focus on gear or on the minutiae of exposure or following certain rules – in Cuba it was mostly about the energy and the emotion of the people. I would love to go back again and I hope Cuba manages to give the world more than it takes once it opens up.

Of course India was magnificent as well...

What did bring back from your trip to India?

I brought back a feeling – that I only scratched the surface of this gorgeous country and its amazing people. India probably needs six months to do it justice. I know I'll be back.

I also came back with another great example

of how community is the essence of our existence. In many "developed" cultures we lock ourselves away in our big homes or gated communities – but we long for a connection, for a community. You can see how colorful and warm the Indian culture is – and how connected to each other they are.

Has photographing people changed your perception of the world?

I'd like to think so – I'm still on my journey.

You collaborated with photographers Rawah Badrawi and Khaled Shukry, how was that process for you? Was it challenging to join forces with other creative talents?

Working with Rawah and Khaled was an absolute pleasure. They are both very talented and I would welcome the opportunity to work with them anytime!

What did the book Siwa: Legends and Lifestyles in the Egyptian Sahara capture in Siwa? What was the focus and purpose?

The Siwa project was almost accidental. The three of us (Khaled, Rawah and myself) were there on holiday and we fell in love with the oasis. We realized that this gorgeous place was practically unknown, a hidden gem in the middle of the desert. We decided we wanted to highlight it and at the same time raise money for the local charities. We were fortunate to attract support from sponsors and from the local community.

Are there any particular photographers who inspire you that you would like to work with in the future?

I spend a lot of time looking at other photographers’ work - I have a folder on my

computer that is called “shots I wish I had taken”! I am a huge fan of Gregory Heissler, Joe McNally, Bryan Peterson as well as Mario Marino - would love to work with any of them!

Also my friends Stephen Wallace, Arien Chang Castan and Toufic Araman are always inspiring in their differing styles.

What's next for Omar Hikal?

I’m looking forward to heading to Ethiopia later this year to shoot the tribes of the Omo Valley with Bryan Peterson.

To check out Omar's stunning photography, visit his website at www.omarhikal.com. For inquiries, you can email him at Ohikal@me.com.

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GET MINTED

Mini spa Mint & Co: where everybody knows your name.

By bazaar staff

Ladies, if we all sit down and think about it, how many of us have a different salon dedicated to each part of our grooming routine? A salon we go to exclusively for blowouts, trims, dying and styling. A nail bar, a spa for massages and facials, and of course, a dingy hole in the wall salon who’s name we will never reveal. Simply because, it houses the most exclusive eyebrow lady who has become best friends with your eyebrows and only she will ever understand them. Don’t you wish that rather than driving all over Kuwait to attain the goal of beauty, you could find it all in one place?

Enter Mint & Co, a haven for all things beauty, featuring a glam squad to fulfill all your personal upkeep needs. Opened in January 2015 by longtime best friends Dima Saymeh and Cherihan “Cheri” Nasr, the goal for this go-to spot was to simplify the working women of Kuwait’s basic primping needs, especially since the two were familiar with the song and dance of salon-hopping. “We wanted to create a salon with an edge to separate it from the rest – somewhere ladies could spend the day in confident that their hair and nails were done just the way they like it.”

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The little details are what matter to the mothers of Mint, as they pay extra attention to providing a cozy environment for their clientele – a mini-spa getaway, if you will. With comfortable seating, fresh flowers, and the TV set always playing something fun from music videos on VH1 to Keeping Up With the Kardashians on E!, customers feel more like regular guests making themselves at home while sipping on a steaming hot cup of fresh coffee or tea, paired with a complimentary lotus biscuit or one of wholehearted baked by siham’s paleo, vegan sugar free treats. “It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day at work, which was the original inspiration for its launch” says Dima. “While we’re committed to and focused on our day jobs, we needed an outlet that we could be proud of – a home away from home.”

Mint also has an array of both organic and nonorganic specialties for sale; from facemasks, to shampoo and hair products, and even deodorant!

“We share a mutual interest in organic products and have noticed that there’s a growing interest for it on the market as well – but we also understand that there are customers who like to stick to non-organic brands and we like to accommodate them as well.”

For those who are interested in organic products, Mint & Co has an array on offer: face masks and scrubs used for their basic facials, organic hair dye, organic

ink for their Permanent Makeup services, and even organic nail polish. Other services Mint has that sets them aside from your basic beauty parlor are massages, and Hard Gel nail treatments – a service that guarantees to strengthen the nails, hassle free; Mint is one of the few, if not the only salon in Kuwait that offers this service.

They also have weekly hair-masks galore! Made in-house with fresh ingredients handpicked by Dima and Cheri themselves, the girls along with the staff brainstorm and research hair mask ideas, create them in the blender of the salon’s kitchen, and write them on the board for customers to try. While each mask has a different purpose, the general consensus is that they leave your hair soft, supple and shiny – perfect to top off with a first class blowout.

The fact that both Dima and Cheri can beautifully integrate their areas of expertise and impeccable style into the field is only a small element to the success of the salon, but what adds to it is the friendly atmosphere. All it takes is one or two visits for the staff to treat you like family, and for the salon to become your Zen home away from home.

Treat yourself to organic luxury at Mint & Co, located in Jabriya block 3B, street 104. Call them at 9665 9774 and follow them on Instagram @mintandcobeautyspa.

Photography by Muneera AlKhulaifi.

KCST

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ONE CEO'S SECRET TO CHECKING

EMAIL JUST ONCE A DAY

By Tehrene Firman

Imagine a world where you only check your email once a day. Sounds pretty great, huh?

Unfortunately being that out of reach would have most employees fired on day one, but for Kate Unsworth, CEO of London tech company VINAYA, a rarely checked inbox is her reality.

In a recent inter view, Unswor th said she reduced her email traffic by 70% last month by turning on a 24/7 out-of-office note and only checking in occasionally. Why so distant? She, like so many of us, previously had a job that required her to read emails from the moment she woke up to the instant she fell asleep at night. After a quar terlife crisis, she got permission from her boss to only check her email twice each day and stay completely offline before and after hours. Yes, a miracle of sor ts. And after seeing a huge improvement in her well-being and quality of work, she took it a step fur ther after founding her own company that focuses on improving digital habits through technology.

Sadly, not all of us are currently in a place (yet!) where we can hop into our inbox once each day and only spend a total of five minutes on social media. Of course a digital detox would be nice, but we also need those paychecks. Luckily there are a handful of ways to establish digital boundaries to stay sane and still keep your boss happy.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOU WANT TO PUT UP DIGITAL BOUNDARIES IN THE FIRST PLACE It seems simple, but if you want to set digital boundaries for yourself, your boss has to be aware of it too. And there’s no way that’s happening until you mention it. "First decide what you want to achieve by putting up boundaries, then once you’ve identified the goal, you can find the best boundar y.

For more efficient, interruption-free periods of work, turn on your ‘out of office’ message on your email and messaging, but let people know how they can reach you if it’s an urgent matter. For example, they can give you a call if they need anything. Then if you get a call, you know you have to pick up," says Cali Yost, CEO and founder of Flex+Strategy Group.

D o n ’t j u s t s ay y o u w a n t b o u n d a r i e s , though—make sure your employer k n o w s w hy i t ’s i m p o r t a n t t o y o u a n d your well-being .

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"It can be stressful setting boundaries, because you want to provide as much value as possible for your company, but you can’t sacrifice things you love. Be very clear with yourself on what you can compromise, and what in your personal life you are not willing to change," says Heather R. Huhman, founder and president of Come Recommended.

2. ESTABLISH A REGULAR STOPPING TIME This is key, especially in the beginning stages of a job. Once you’re in a solid routine of staying at your desk until 9 p.m. every night, it’s going to feel weird if you suddenly start leaving at 6. Since you spend the majority of your time at work, having set start and endpoints is crucial.

"While it may feel great to be needed all the time, it’s not healthy or productive. Create a set time to cut off all work-related emails, messages, web searches, and phone calls. Your team will

respect you more for valuing your personal life, and it will help you shift your mind-set from work to home once you’ve established a defined time. It may be best to turn off email push notifications on your phone at your stopping time," Ruhman says.

3. DOWNLOAD AN APP OR PLUG-IN SO YOU CAN FOCUS ON WHAT’S IMPORTANT Unsworth says she uses Stay Focused to combine all her social accounts and keep her time spent scrolling through her newsfeed in check. Just think about how many hours you spend each day stalking through Facebook and double-tapping pictures on Instagram—it’s probably more than you think. Having emails to respond to all day can feel suffocating at times, but it’s always good to make sure your digital boundaries are set in and outside the workplace. Because the last thing you want to do is spend the entire time you’re with friends and family with a phone glued to your face.

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JON FAVREAU BRINGS 21ST CENTURY

TECHNOLOGY TO 1894’S ‘THE JUNGLE BOOK’

By Rebecca Keegan

In a downtown L.A. studio in late 2014, Jon Favreau was watching a computergenerated panther walk on a giant monitor while behind him crews hammered together a bear cave set.

Favreau was on the set of his new film, The Jungle Book, a hybrid of live action and animation that Disney will release in April 2016. The movie, from a screenplay by Justin Marks, straddles two centuries as the photo-real, digitally created animals deliver lines of prose Rudyard Kipling first wrote in 1894.

In mood, it draws on Disney’s whimsical 1967 animated version of The Jungle Book, which won over audiences with a singable Sherman Brothers soundtrack and appealingly cartoony characters.

For Favreau, the 49-year-old director of the bigbudget Marvel movies Iron Man and Iron Man 2 and the low-fi indie hit Chef, directing The Jungle Book is an opportunity to develop his 21st century filmmaking skills while relying on some of his strongest old-school abilities, namely a knack for casting and tone.

“We never want to make the animals express emotions in ways that their species doesn’t,” Favreau said at the time, explaining why his CG panther doesn’t ever furrow his brow. “How do you make it real? You hold a mirror up to nature. We have the breathing, the fur, the way the muscles move over the skin. The real challenge is to take all of this technical stuff and make it into an emotional experience.”

Favreau and his casting director selected newcomer Neel Sethi, a charismatic 12-year-old 56

from New York City, to play the movie’s only human character, Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves. While the 1967 film featured expressive performers like Louis Prima and George Sanders in its voice cast, the new Jungle Book surrounds Sethi with an impressive group of contemporary voices, including Bill Murray as Baloo the bear, Ben Kingsley as Bagheera the panther, Idris Elba as tiger Shere Khan, Scarlett Johansson as Kaa the python and Christopher Walken as King Louie, who is modified from a chimpanzee in the 1967 film to a gigantopithecus, an extinct creature that was native to Kipling’s India setting.

While their voices are human and — particularly in the case of Walken — unmistakably specific, their characters are nearly photo real. For Favreau, who dabbled in CGI on the first two Iron Man films, the technologically driven project has meant developing a new comfort level with visual effects. On his earlier movies Elf and Zathura, Favreau had steadfastly stuck to practical techniques like stop-motion animation and forced perspective.

“I’ve always been very resistant to dive into CGI,” Favreau said, citing his fears of the “uncanny valley,” an effect where computer-generated human characters cause a response of revulsion in an audience. But, impressed by advances in computing power and techniques and by the work on films like 2011’s Rise of the Planet of the Apes and 2009 Avatar, he felt emboldened to take on a classic tale with new tools. (As the idea to update Jungle Book using digital tools occurred to Disney, it also occurred to another giant media company in Burbank, Warner Bros., which

has a similar feature film underway, Jungle Book: Origins, with Andy Serkis at the helm and scheduled for release in 2017.)

Favreau sought advice from Pixar’s Andrew Stanton, borrowed camera systems that James Cameron developed for Avatar and enlisted the guidance of visual effects supervisor Rob Legato, who worked on Avatar and Hugo.

“I tend to like puzzles and get obsessive about details,” Favreau said at his Playa Vista offices. “So in that sense, directing this way suits me. We made the animated version of the movie, the live action version, the motion-capture version. This kind of movie is like a marathon, not a sprint.”

Nevertheless the new form brought new questions — “How do you create the spontaneity and chemistry in a medium that’s very rigid? How do you talk to visual effects artists? How do you set the tone?” Favreau said.

He enlisted songwriter Richard Sherman, now 87, to revisit and update some of the memorable songs he wrote with his brother — “He loved the word ‘gigantopithecus,’” Favreau said of Sherman.

Favreau declined to specify how many songs are in the film, saying, “We tried to incorporate enough of the music to meet the expectations of the audience without making it a full-on musical.”

His ultimate aim, Favreau said, is to create not just a movie but a transporting experience.

“We’ve got to make people go to the movies,” Favreau said. “We’ve got to make a case for it by showing them something they can’t get at home.”

dr.nael

XOCOLÂT

A culinary mind, a husband, and a tempering machine By bazaar staff

Within five minutes of entering Sarah Alhajji’s beautiful home, I am met with a welcoming fresh blood-orange juice and an array of snacks and foreign sweets. Immediately I understand that a zest for flavor is pivotal in her everyday life as well as her booming local chocolate business. Her business’s name is Xocolât - pronounced ‘sho-kolaht’ – and is the word for chocolate (or “bitter water”) in the Ancient Aztec language of Nahuati.

The Xocolât chocolate bar concept first formed in Sarah’s mind after her 9-month culinar y Grand Diplome course in London at the internationally renowned Le Cordon Bleu culinar y school in 2013.

The 9-month course teaches par ticipants all there is to know about gastronomy and culinar y ar t. From lessons in cuisine and pâtisserie to the practical implementation with specialist ingredients of the highest quality, the source of Sarah’s love for depth of flavor is evident. It was during her time in London that she discovered her love for desser t and pastr y-making.

Once she par tnered with her businesssavvy husband Abdulaziz, her chocolate dream became a reality and a booming success at that.

Although not often drawn in by food videos on Social Media or the Nutellasaturated content that pops up on my news Feed, when I watched a 3-second clip of Xocolât’s decadent peanut butter brownie mix being spread onto a pan, my mouth was watering. Unlike other local small business Social Media platforms, Xocolât has gained a dedicated following by returning customers who genuinely love the products on offer. Ever y photo and video is flanked by endless comments commending the innovative ideas and punting all-time favorites. These loyal customers also act as the springboard for new ideas, as they suggest potential new flavor combinations.

Nonetheless, the hard work that goes into creating a new chocolate bar is extensive.

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First of all, Sarah finds her inspiration.

This can come from absolutely anything, she tells me. “Even now, I’m looking at the sesame seeds on that snack platter and I’m getting inspired”. Sometimes, she wakes up in the morning and has an idea for a new chocolate bar. That is the stor y of the most popular bar produced by Xocolât : the peanut butter brownie and sea salt chocolate bar.

Thereafter, the process becomes much

more complex. Several recipe tests are necessar y to find the perfect ratio of high quality ingredients for consistent taste, color and texture across all products.

Although Sarah’s imagination is limitless, she sometimes meets obstacles in the production of her chocolate bars and must test her ingredients to see if cer tain combinations are feasible. For example, a honey/ chocolate combination

would result in the chocolate splitting.

To mitigate this, Sarah looks to other options such as infusing other ingredients like cream or another type of chocolate with the ingredient of choice. After that, the lucky friends and family of Sarah and Abdulaziz taste the new chocolate flavors and give feedback on elements such as sweetness and depth of flavor. Before the chocolate bar reaches their Qout Market stand, prices are deliberated to ensure that customers really are getting a lot of bang for their buck.

A focal par t of the process, and one of the reasons Xocolât is now recognized throughout Kuwait, is the colorful, attention-grabbing packaging the chocolates come in. Sarah designed her logo herself, but sought help from the local designing and marketing agency Studio AIO (All In One). In keeping with the locality of the business as well as the Aztec origins of the name, Studio AIO designed a vibrant, geometric pattern with hints of Kuwaiti Sadu to compliment the Aztec print. Each box has the flavor hand-written on it, consistent with the local, small business aesthetic Xocolât so successfully emulates.

Recently, Sarah was asked to organize the food for Chopard’s first dinner of 2016, consisting of an 8-course desser t dinner.

Featured on the Xocolât Instagram account, the dishes are complex, calculated and perfectly balanced both in flavor and plating.

Sarah worked for two weeks to ensure that the desser t dinner didn’t overwhelm diners with sweetness, incorporating subtle salty and creamy flavors for diversity and balance. One par ticularly striking dish was the first selection of the evening; the mango gelato was topped with real passion fruit pieces and sat comfor tably on a dash of pomegranate reduction, mint syrup and a glass-like mint jelly. It truly was an excellent oppor tunity for Sarah to demonstrate her vast experience of culinar y innovation.

Although Sarah is flooded with orders from customers as well as getting ready for the upcoming Qout Market, she has some new ideas up her sleeve. She is thinking of producing chocolate bonbons (or truffles) in sets of 2, 4, 6 and even 12! She also sees her business extending past Kuwaiti borders with potential retailers in other Middle Eastern countries. We can’t wait to keep up with Sarah and her inventions at the next Qout Market!

Check out Xocolât’s excellent chocolate bar range at the next Qout Market. For any orders, contact this number: 9877 1742.

For mouth-watering chocolatey goodness follow Xocolât on Instagram @Xocolât_kw.

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THE PERFECT MOTHER'S DAY GIFT

Made for mothers on the go, from The Athlete’s Foot By bazaar staff

Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10

Training Snap FZ Hood

Original Boyfriend Trefoil Tee

Mornings are hectic, we get it, and as a mother, you are constantly on the go. Whether it's staying up late to pack lunches, rushing the children to after-school activities, or dealing with your own office woes, you're constantly moving.

Working mothers are often behind when it comes to getting the kids out the door on time, or when figuring out the best Mothers Day gift for themselves - and what better gift to give yourself than some glorious “me time”?

This Mother’s Day, The Athlete’s Foot is here to help you stay one step ahead of your morning routine while maintaining your style and comfort! This month, 60

Under Armour Universal Duffle

they share their go-to outfit (and perfect gift!) for those never-ending stressful mornings: First off, they have the Training Snap FZ Hood: With loose-fit long sleeves, this modern women's hoodie with side snap details features a soft, warm fleece you’ll never have to worry about comfort again Pair it with the Women's Original Boyfriend Trefoil Tee: Mimicking its male counterpart with a relaxed and roomy, this women's t-shirt has an ultra-soft cotton and modal fabric blend that’s perfect for those days where all you do is run around.

Keep it comfortable with the Women's Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10: Providing a dreamy combination of soft yet responsive cushioning, the lightweight Nike Zoom Air benefits your feet with an enhanced midsole cushioning to make being on your feet all day a little easier.

Top it off with the Under Armour Universal Duffle: This one is an essential for your survival kits! Featuring a large top zip main compartment, quick stash side pockets, a removable mesh pouch, vertical flat iron interior pocket, and an adjustable/removable over the shoulder strap, this duffle goes where you go with nothing left behind.

Want to find out more about The Athlete’s Foot? Follow The Athlete’s Foot on Instagram @TheAthletesFootKuwait, Twitter @TAFkuwait, Facebook /TAFKW, contact their hotline at 1804 449, or visit them at The Avenues Mall, Discovery Mall, Al Fanar Complex, Gate Mall, Flex, Marina Mall, Promenade Mall, Sama Mall, Kout Mall, Souq Sharq, 360 Mall, Al-Corniche Club, Mishref Co-Op, Lulu Hypermarket Al-Dajeej and Kuwait International Airport.

mais alghanim

KUWAIT COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Your career in tech starts here!

By bazaar staff

Understanding how technology is changing the world as we know it is an enticing experience. We’ve already seen how communications technology has completely overhauled our lives with the birth of the Internet, mobile communications, and smart phones.

Today, we are much better equipped to face life’s modern challenges—our mindsets are already poised to allow technology to better our lives. All we need is a willing generation of talented individuals to make it happen. Rather than travel abroad to seek an education in the field, residents of Kuwait can gain a higher education degree that would equip them with the skills needed to kick start their dream careers in science and technology right here in Kuwait.

Long journeys are no more, and missing home, your nearest and dearest, is now a thing of the past with the recent opening of the Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST).

The private university college functions as a fullyfledged university, offering internationally recognized undergraduate bachelor degree programs in the fields of computer science, electronics, and communications 62

technology that are taught under the supervision of international experts in science and technology.

The university just kicked off its first foundation class on January 17th of this year, and current programs on offer include a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Computer Engineering as well as a Bachelor of Electronics and Communications Engineering. The latter is a unique engineering program in private universities in kuwait.

For most students, attending a university carries with it an enormous responsibility, and at KCST, the faculty’s supportive attitude will allow you to dream, conceive, create and achieve your goals and reach your full potential. On campus students are provided with the taste of home and local culture while still enjoying the highest international educational standards in the field of science and technology. KCST was conceived with the belief that education must be holistic and liberal, and this philosophy ensure that students are prepared to become leaders, developers of new approaches to technology, and problem solving entrepreneurs.

Empowering students with this ability adds to the institute’s function as a leading research center that promotes ground-breaking scientific and technological innovations that impact the world.

With wide-spanning curricula specifically tailor made and designed by international consultants from the renowned ITT-Delhi, you can rest assured that you

are pursuing a higher education degree that matches the caliber of the international community. Teaching standards are aligned with the renowned universities and institutes around the world. This is perfectly demonstrated with how KCST enjoys a flourishing partnership with the Kanagawa Institute of Technology from Japan. The university is also currently finalizing other international partnerships with reputable universities from the UK, USA, Australia as well as other European universities. With such incredible partnership plans, students at KCST are ensured to continually receive the latest educational modules.

The campus intriguingly rises like a modern architectural marvel located west of Kuwait City in Doha.

With its intricately designed facilities, the campus boasts the latest technology and highly developed security systems. The impressive auditorium boasts a capacity of more than 500 seats. The university also has a widespanning parking facility, and the campus is accessible through various highways in under thirty minutes— making the journey to KCST from Kuwait City and most areas much shorter than you might expect!

Start your educational journey at KCST today!

KCST is located in Doha, off of the 7th Ring Road.

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WHY EMOJIS ARE A NO-BRAINER FOR DIGITAL COMMUNICATION

By Tracey Lien

When the Oxford English Dictionary declared an emoji as its 2015 word of the year, it was a bit of a head-scratcher.

The emoji it singled out — an image of a laughing yellow face crying tears of joy — did not fit most people’s definition of a word. To some, it was even less of a word than shortlisted nominee “Lumbersexual” (a young urban man who cultivates an appearance and style of dress suggestive of a rugged outdoor lifestyle).

But for linguists around the world, the announcement wasn’t about whether the Oxford English Dictionary had lost it. (It hadn’t — most linguists agree a word is a discrete unit that is meaningful; emoji fit that definition.) Rather, it was a recognition of the enormous effect yellow smiley faces and other colorful emojis representing food, animals and hand gestures have had on the way people talk online.

Don’t believe them? A 2015 study by Bangor University linguistics professor Vyv Evans found that 80 percent of smartphone users in Britain use emojis. When the research focused on people under 25, almost 100 percent of smartphone users text with emojis. According to a SwiftKey report, 74 percent of Americans use emojis every day.

Aside from widespread adoption of the icons, which began after Apple made emojis available on its iOS mobile operating system in 2011, with Android following in 2013, emojis have been one of the biggest communication breakthroughs since people took to the Internet.

Look at it this way, Evans said: There are estimates that as much as 70 percent of the meaning we derive from a face-to-face encounter with someone comes from non-verbal cues: facial expressions, intonation, body language, pitch.

Which means words account for only around 30 percent of what we say.

As an example, he noted the huge difference in meaning between saying “I love you” as a statement with a falling intonation as opposed to “I love you?”

Move this online, where emails, text messages and instant messages mostly allow us to communicate with words, and you can see how messages can lose their meaning or be misinterpreted. Evans even has a term for it: the Angry Jerk Phenomenon.

“You’ll recognize it instantly,” he said. “You get an email from someone who you know to be calm and sane, and they come across as a completely angry jerk. When you press the send button on a message, the instant it is sent, you lose control over how it’s interpreted.”

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A December report from Bloomberg found that 8 trillion text messages are sent each year.

That’s a lot of opportunities for a message to be misinterpreted.

Cue the emoji.

Emojis originated in Japan in the late 1990s, when wireless carriers created sets of digital stickers people could use in text messages.

Elsewhere, people had long used emoticons — visual expressions strung together using symbols such as parentheses, dashes and colons, like ":)" to denote a smiley face. Where text took the empathy out of messages, emojis and emoticons put it back in.

But emojis quickly surpassed emoticon use for two key reasons: There’s a lot more that people can communicate with emojis. (“I can make an emoji that’s a whale or a penguin,” said Internet language expert Gretchen McCulloch. “I don’t even know how I would do that with emoticons.”)

And once emojis were incorporated into Unicode — an international system that standardizes characters across different operating systems so when you type “:-)” into your iPhone or Android phone, the symbols automatically turn into a yellow smiley face — they became accessible and easy to use.

Add to that the belief that “humans as a collective species are programmed to use visual communication” (that’s from linguist Neil Cohn, whose own research focuses on how people have a biological inclination to draw things), and emojis became a no-brainer for digital communication.

Language experts note that the real innovation behind emojis lies in their ability to help people online say what they mean, so when they write “What the heck?” they can signify with an accompanying laughing emoji or an angry-faced emoji whether their statement is an expression of amusement or outrage.

And try as people might, emojis aren’t here to replace language. Many streams of emojis easily can get lost in translation.

The Unicode Consortium, which is made up of the major software developing stakeholders such as Apple, Facebook, Google and IBM, continues to process applications for new emojis. Anyone can submit a request for free by heading to the Unicode website and writing a detailed proposal for the emoji. The process in which the Unicode technical committee decides if an emoji will see the light of day can take up to two years. The consortium receives around 100 proposals a year, and approval rates vary year to year.

There are currently 74 new emojis shortlisted for 2016, including a dancing man, a croissant and pancakes.

The system might grow to include an emoji for every facial expression, gesture, food or flag. Or, as Cohn, the linguist, hopes, as the system matures, people will want fewer, but more useful emojis.

“Why isn’t there an emoji of someone with a face that has rolling eyes?” he said. “That would be really useful.”

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PORSCHE BOXSTER GTS Hear the beast roar!

By bazaar staff

It begins with a snarl and a purr, only to sneakily indicate the exhilarating ride you’re about to go on. If you’re not expecting to be startled, then you’ve picked the wrong car. The sound you vividly hear right beneath your feet belongs to none other than the Porsche Boxster GTS. Surprised? Then you’re in for quite a few more thrilling facts! Built to be stronger, faster and more dynamic, the Porsche Boxster GTS delivers on all three fronts, giving you one swanky Porsche twoseater fit for many arenas. We took this small but mighty speedster out for a spin one sunny weekend, and we frantically wished we could keep it forever.

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The name says it all: at Porsche, GTS stands for Gran Turismo Spor t and has promised outstanding Porsche performance ever since the legendar y 904 Carrera GTS dating back to 1963. With the Boxster GTS, as well as delivering these features to the Cayman GTS, Porsche is emphasizing its tradition of building authentic spor ts cars for both the race track and ever yday use. The look of the GTS is inimitable, its distinctive appearance includes a unique front end with smoked bi-xenon headlights – with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) as standard –a modified rear body apron, and exterior badges in silky gloss black combine to make an understated but clear statement. Fitted with plush red interiors, and an electric blue exterior, our ride stole the scene. Other drivers on the road literally had to slow down, to enviously admire the beauty of this GTS.

The Boxster GTS is the strongest and fastest mid-engine sports car by Porsche, every minute spent driving this beautiful GTS is a thrilling experience. With its sporty benchmarks, the Boxster GTS boasts a power-boosted engine with an excellent PASM chassis, and an acoustical experience will do all the talking. The upgraded sport exhaust system, beautifully demonstrated by the signature dual black-finished tailpipes, is tuned optimally for the GTS. The car offers even greater range between cultivated sound attenuation, on the one hand, and emotional sound with reduced back pressure on the other. We seamlessly activated the sport exhaust system (you can do that via the the Sport Plus button on the center console), and let the engine management system perform its magic of switching flaps. Thanks to the standard PASM adaptive damping control system with a suspension that is 10

mm lower, more control means more grip, and provides greater driving stability, more comfort, enhanced performance and shorter braking distances.

Porsche has implemented their most powerful engine that combines ample torque with high power output at higher revs—and you will instantly feel the difference. The Porsche Boxster GTS is also equipped with the Spor t Chrono package as standard. The results: in conjunction with the optional PDK and active Spor t Plus button, the Boxster GTS sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds.

The GTS promised an unexpected start, and what you get is a high level of spontaneity, cultivated high-revving responsiveness up to the limit of 7,800 rpm and a harmonious power curve over the entire engine speed range. The flat six-cylinder engine of this top model is based on the 3.4-litre engines of the

Boxster S. It delivers 15 hp (eleven kW) more power due to fine tuning, including optimized management of the combustion process by variable control of the intake camshaft to provide valve timing adjustment (VarioCam Plus). This means that the Boxster GTS has an output of 330 hp (243 kW). Nominal torque has also been increased by ten Newton meters and is available in the range from 4,500 rpm to 5,800 rpm for the Boxster GTS – ideal for powerful gear transitions during acceleration.

As regards the maximum speed – measured with the standard manual sixspeed transmission – this is the first Boxster to top the 280 km/h mark, reaching a speed of 281 km/h.

When the Sport Plus button is activated, the standard PASM chassis becomes stiffer and the sport exhaust system is dethrottled. An automatic throttle blip function is implemented when downshifting with the

manual transmission. It matches engine revs to the lower gear even better during fast shifting, so that the you can optimally use engine power or engine braking.

After a few cruises up and down Kuwait’s stunning Arabian Gulf Road, our exhilarating test drive of the Porsche Boxster GTS had to come to an end. Oh, here’s something else we learned that will enlighten the ladies. If you’re after a brand blow dry, then skip the hair salon next time and take this Boxster out for a test drive—your hair will be in for a windswept treat!

The Porsche Boxster GTS is available at the Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company. Call 1870 870 or visit www.porschekuwait.com for more information. Follow @PorscheCentreKuwait for their latest updates on Instagram.

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UN-ZENTANGLE

By Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg

So. I’ve been doing some sophisticated doodling. If you follow trends at all in the social media world, you’ll know this doodling is now called 'Zentangles.' I took up the quirky little expressive art form about two years ago. I was looking for activities to suggest to clients as a way to discharge anxiety and to deal with a toobusy mind (one of the best ways of dealing with both anxiety and obsessive thoughts is a focused distraction) and decided to try this one for myself.

There is something soothing and calming about the repetitious patterns, the need for precision requiring concentration, and the constant attention to the size and balance of the work in progress. The activity does exactly what it’s supposed to do:create a Zen space or as I call it, a “quiet mind.”

Looking for patterns to learn, I started a Pinterest board, ‘Possible Zentangles,’ and promptly began pinning.

Actually, what promptly happened is that I thought I should give up Zentangling and go back to children’s coloring books. Most of the pins that pitched up in my feed immediately produced a great sense of dissatisfaction with myself and my feeble scribbles. I took to calling what I did ‘doodling,’ and apologizing for not being very good. (I also didn’t post many of my efforts. No. I did not.) Critical of myself and my abilities, I was constantly comparing my finished pieces to the tiles I was pinning to my board. As disappointed as I was sometimes in my final effort, I kept at it because I enjoyed the process and the activity works.

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I regularly reminded myself that it’s about the ‘Zen’ of it, not perfection.

Recently, I came across a new Zentangle by someone whose work I enjoy very much. In fact, I often use designs from her tiles in my own because she’s creative, precise, and uses shading in a way I like. My tiles never look like hers, though I am now able to reproduce the pattern itself with practiced precision. I just can’t quite ever get the overall finished piece to look as polished as hers. But I keep trying, and looking back, I’ve clearly gotten much better. Hoo ha.

With that new Zentangle post was a link to her blog, which I’d never read, so I slid over there to see the YouTube video on how to create the new pattern.

Just as I was clicking on ‘play,’ my eye caught the word, “Photoshop” in her blog. Wha….?!

I’ve been working really hard to perfect my own patterns, struggling to control my pen tip, trying to keep the black a uniform depth, practicing my shading over, and over, over, while comparing my efforts to the pieces I’ve seen posted — and she’s been photoshopping!

Every. Single. Tile.

Apparently she doesn’t post a single piece without “…correcting the white balance, cleaning up the lines, erasing the smudges, and removing any mistakes I’ve made.” Color me angry, and disappointed, in myself.

Somewhere, in the midst of that Zen-producing activity, I lost Me. The ‘Me’ that is confident, educated, accomplished, successful… blah, blah, blah. That ‘Me.’ Over something as simple as drawing repeating

patterns. I allowed my 'Internal Critic' to come out of the hole I’d stuck her in long ago and proceeded to allow her to pass judgment for almost two years. Over DOODLING! At least it started there. Since I let have her seat back in the Peanut Gallery, she took to passing judgment on every little thing again. What a pain.

Fast forward to now. Reading that blog and comprehending that I was comparing my REAL life to someone else’s fakery completely changed my perspective. It’s like the difference between the uncut version of life and the Facebook Highlight Reel. I’ve never been caught by that particular false projection, but unwittingly fell into the self-critical trap over doodling. It’s not that I was suddenly unsuccessful, or incompetent, or unconfident, it’s that my shift in perspective wiped away much of my enjoyment in life because self-criticism never stops at the doodling (or whatever). Once that voice is allowed to speak without correction, eventually everything becomes “not quite right.” It’s a subtle, progressive descent into dissatisfaction and the Slough of Despond.

Have you ever banished that Internal Critic to the deep, dark hole where s/he belongs? Whose voice is it that you hear? When do you mentally dismiss your own efforts; intelligence; accomplishments; talents; because the outcome isn’t perfect? Comparison always murders the unique, amazing 'Self' that you are. Striving for mastery motivates but striving for perfection paralyzes.

Are you motivated or paralyzed?

Folllow @DrSusannah on Twitter and Instagram.

just ask

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE! Clever storage solutions by IKEA By bazaar staff

We’re all familiar with the feeling of owning stunning pieces, yet constantly complaining of nothing to wear. Simple tasks like getting ready to go to work or a fancy dinner become a difficult process that can take up much more time than needed. We often blame it on the lack of space, without understanding that a beautiful home starts with smart and well-organized spaces.

Having efficient and smart storage solutions gives you the opportunity to display the things that you love, or hide those which you consider personal. IKEA offers relevant solutions for all possible storage needs and wants; products and solutions that are flexible enough to be combined and used for different storage needs, big and small.

Play Dress-Up with PAX When we purchase beautiful designer dresses and 5-inch stilettos, we want to show them off with pride. However, when the time comes to actually flaunt these beautiful pieces on a fancy night out, they simply vanish into the piles and mounds of items in your wardrobe.

The key solution to “de-cluttering” your wardrobe is to utilize products and smart solutions that will help you get organized regardless of your living situation and challenges. Smart solutions will help you save space, time and money— and most importantly, give you a home that is truly personal.

Before customizing your perfect wardrobe or storage solution, always start by asking yourself the following questions: What needs to be stored? How much needs to be stored, and where? How often will it need to be accessed? Should it be visible or hidden?

For example, if shoes are your weakness and you are keen on having them displayed in your wardrobe, then the KOMPLEMENT shoe rail, pullout tray or shelf insert will be your solution in storing your shoes. Better yet, color code your shoes on the shoe rail to save you time when you pick out the right pair for your fashion ensemble.

Little things matter too and deserve to be given their due space.

Separate your belts, jewelry, and even your socks with the HOFTA drawer divider, and say goodbye to clutter and hello to immaculately organized accessories. Sub-dividing the storage space in a flexible way will further improve the solution and reduce frustration of not being able to find things quickly. Don’t forget to be selective in displaying your everyday pieces and accessories instead of trying to fit all of your items into the divider.

Another quick tip to ensure your inner organizer 70

shines through is to opt for a walk-in wardrobe that constantly stares you in the eye. Having to face your clothes on a daily basis instead of keeping them nicely hidden in a closed space may actually prompt you to keep your clothes perfectly lined up and tidy at all times. We also tend to think of walk-in wardrobes as a luxury that needs abundant space, but in reality, a walk-in wardrobe can be very much part of your storage solutions at home.

IKEA provides you with the option to customize your dream walk-in wardrobe through PAX storage solutions. So whether you prefer more space to store your shoes and accessories or if you’d rather utilize your entire wardrobe for suits, dresses and clothing items, your needs will always be met with PAX. Keen on making the most of your space? Visit the

IKEA store and let our experts help you choose from the wide range of storage solutions that are available that best suits your personality, style and budget.

Visit the IKEA showroom located at 1st Avenue – The Avenues or call 184 0408. You can also follow @IKEAKuwait on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit their website, www.ikea.com/kw.

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6 Web Design Trends That Are

Here To Stay

By Zack Rutherford

Web design thrives on two things: innovation and imitation. Unfortunately, there's often a lot more of the latter. We all like to seize upon the latest trends, use them until they’re ubiquitous, and then look desperately for the next big thing.

Think about sliders. They were all the rage a couple years ago. Today, they feel dated. What to do? Stop chasing microtrends, and start looking at the big picture. Here, we've isolated six web design ideas that are here to stay.

1. Ar tificial intelligence Context is ever ything. Where and when an interaction happens is now as impor tant as how or why. Is it on a phone? A tablet?

Indoors or outdoors? What is the user doing in that moment? Users interact with a product in all kinds of different situations.

Designers have to make the product's response as seamless and as helpful as possible. Of course, they can’t instantaneously read a user’s context in real time. But sophisticated and emergent ar tificial intelligence engines can.

Many other forms of artificial intelligence are beginning to automate the web. The eventual outcome: a greater reliance on AI to analyze and interpret user context, and then coordinate the best offers and solutions.

AI newbies can get star ted by using various WordPress plugins like The Client Relations Factor y, which puts an animated, autonomous customer-ser vice representative on your website.

2. Diversity One consistent complaint about the web design world is how often it engages in, shall we say, less than original practices.

The proclivity of WordPress templates, responsive frameworks, and the desire to achieve a certain look (corporate, personal, portfolio, etc.) has led to a large degree of uniformity in design. This can only last so long.

Websites don’t have to fit into a mold.

Certainly there will be clients who’ll want their websites to match others in the same industry.

But there are always calls for a fresh take— for something that feels different. Of course, many of these requests are only for superficial 72

differences. However, as the web design industry matures, it’s only natural that it should diversify in earnest.

3. Rich Illustrations Traditionally, websites use stock photography and other photos for visuals.

Moving forward, we will star t to see more hand-drawn ar t.

Hand-drawing offers warmth and a degree of originality that simply can’t be met with other visuals. As companies vie for consumers' hearts (and dollars), websites that convey an air of authenticity will be king.

Soon, websites and their brands could be associated with the ar t style they contain.

Imagine a world in which Picasso’s blue period plays out digitally for all to see and appreciate. Integrating handmade ar twork in web design can become something of a branding calling card.

4. Mobile/Wearable First Mobile-first design is already well underway, but it will become even more pronounced as the wearables market, which is estimated to be wor th $31 billion (KD 9 billion) by 2020, heats up. Google Glass may have fallen flat, but HUD displays aren’t going to disappear completely. Not with Oculus Rift and other VR tech coming to the fore. And that's only par t of the wearables stor y.

These platforms present a whole new set of challenges for designers making applications and websites accessible.

Of course, the basic principles of good UI design still matter. But designers will have to come up with creative ways to accommodate smaller, oddly sized screens and interfaces.

5. Microinteractions As information becomes platform-agnostic— available on our watches, our phones, our TVs, and ever ything in between—seamless user experiences will be more impor tant than ever. Enter microinteractions.

Microinteractions have to feel as unobtrusive as possible. They should require a dear th of thought and effor t on the par t of the user.

They can be achieved in a few clicks or perhaps a more thorough process. In either case, a microinteraction should consist of four steps: Trigger, Rule, Feedback and Loop/Mode.

The trigger is the initiating action, such as a "read more" button or a notification.

The rule is the predefined constraints that govern the interaction. This is usually intuitive, like the ubiquitous hamburger icon.

A rule can also be a form that a user might need to fill out. Feedback is the response to the user’s action, and the loop is how long the interaction lasts or whether it’s repeated. Modes are necessar y disruptions from the microinteraction. They’re usually unwanted, and should be used sparingly, if at all.

6. Richer animations Finally, we get to the good stuff. The whole point of design is to look good after all. And what looks better than rich animations? The web has never looked more dynamic than it does today, and it's only going to get better.

Animations engage the user and enhance stor ytelling. They make a website seem more like an interactive experience than a simple por tal to find information about a cer tain business, product, ser vice, or individual.

Of course, it’s important not to go overboard. Too much movement can scatter focus, and distract, confuse, and irritate users.

Keep animations simple and thematically consistent. When I say "thematically" I mean from a storytelling perspective. Your site should unfold like a well-told narrative, revealing important details and guiding users through a path. Use animations selectively to illustrate important points or to indicate a required action.

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A closer look at DKNY’s Spring 2016 Collection By bazaar staff

Since its inception in 1989, DKNY (Donna Karan New York) has been known for its ability to produce chic classics with a crisp finish, ideal for the corporate fashionista on the go.

DKNY is a well-known brand with pieces renouned for taking both men and women’s looks from daytime to nighttime in a matter of minutes – and their latest collection is no different!

Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne 74

Last year, NYC natives Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne were appointed Creative Directors of the long loved brand, putting a new twist on the collection that pays homage to both their hometown and Donna Karan’s classic style of corporate-chic. In doing so, they’ve created their pioneer collection inspired by their independent 'Public School' line. In their latest runway presentation, a quirky line of classics celebrates the flavors of New York City with straight angles and a polished finish mixed with a sense of urban cool that you can only achieve hailing a cab on the Lower East Side! These elements embody the Spring 2016 collection of DKNY, which we can’t wait to tr y on, but let’s take a closer look.

The line's element for inspiration, the Power Suit, shows up as a predecessor for modern and unique styles creating classic staples with a twist, such as mini dresses. While the Power Suit also stands in its glorious true form, it is constructed and deconstructed through Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne’s vision.

This collection includes a line of gorgeous tulip-cut skir ts with a sarong-like finish to bridge the gap between the classic corporate and fierce trends. Redefining the ‘80s and ‘90s Power Suit, gone are the days when women had to pair padded shouldered business blazers with A-line skir ts, as this alternative would create a more modern and flattering silhouette.

Pair with a classic pointed pump and you’re good to go! Other skir ts on offer are asymmetrically hemmed, with a severe two-tone effect in the form of wraparound detail. The look results in a futuristic twist of business skir t-wear, and is a godsend to those who love to layer!

Other pieces that captured our attention include a form-fitting bodice accentuated at the waist to create an hourglass shape that will play up the cur ves. In an edgy pinstripe patterned fabric, you can’t go wrong! Other inspired [continued...]

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[...continued] styles include classic blazers in New York’s favorite shades: slate gray, white, and black. Gorgeous deconstructed blazer maxi-dresses and playsuits make an appearance as well.

And where would we be without the quintessential LBD? Be it little or long, this staple, also recreated from Donna Karan’s brand staples, appears in the Spring 2016 collection in the form of a sheer top layer to pair atop your favorite pieces to create a polished yet unique look.

This DKNY collection innovatively features what is sure to be a 2016 comeback favorite, the playful jumpsuit and conser vative romper.

Gone are the days of easy breezy Boho pieces that are made for weekend musical festivals, and rising are the days of crisp, clean and tailored suits that include long, midi and boxy shor t length pants. Each suit also features an individual detail that separates it from its sister styles – whether it be a belted effect, a buttoned breast design, pockets at front or on the side, each piece is truly unique and suited to fit the needs of an array of different body types.

Let it be known, ladies, this year is all about baring a sliver of ankle – remember to wear those rolled cuffs with pride!

DKNY’s latest collection is just filled to the brim with brilliant styles, and it’s safe to say that fashionistas all over are looking forward to rocking Chow and Osborne’s urban vision – including the likes of Hannah Bronfman, New York City “It Girl” and entrepreneur: “It’s a style for the young bosswoman. And I’m a young bosswoman.” We all are, Hannah – we all are.

Embrace the inner young bosswoman in you and check out DKNY’s latest collection at 2nd Avenue – The Avenues (2259 7111), Marina Mall (2224 4842) and Mall 360 (2530 9911). Stay updated about the collection by following Al Yasra Fashion on Instagram @alyasra.

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dar hamad

RANDOM ACTS OF MOTHERING

By Jamie Etheridge

My youngest daughter has lately fallen in love with the idea of rainbows. She painted one during her winter break art camp – complete with cotton ball clouds at the ends - and now has it proudly displayed on her little desk at home. I am not sure why she likes them - maybe it’s the contrast of colors, the symmetry or perhaps just the satisfying way they embody all the colors of the spectrum.

To find out, or rather, to encourage her rainbow obsession, I wanted to do something special for her involving rainbows. So one day last month, I arranged to go to her school for reading hour. I bought some lovely, handmade playdough in rainbow colors and brought along a book about a girl and her rainbow. (Of course, with the teacher’s permission), I showed up and surprised her. She and all her classmates spent the rest of the day making rainbows.

I like to surprise my kids. I’ve never been into practical jokes (which I think are just plain mean) but I do like to orchestrate the unexpected. These are what I call ‘random acts of mothering.’

Here’s another example. A few years ago, my eldest girl was learning about dinosaurs at school. One day, she 78

mentioned to me that her teacher said dinosaurs used to live in Kuwait but had all died off and were now buried under the desert. I liked the story and decided to use it to have some fun with her.

The following weekend, we went to the beach and while the girls splashed at the water’s edge, I buried in the sand a few chicken bones I’d brought with me (saved from a weeknight dinner). A half hour later they came back and started building sandcastles. While they played in the sand, we talked about the different types of dinosaurs and what their bones might look like. When she finally hit dirt and uncovered a ‘dinosaur bone’, she was over the moon and spent the next hour happily digging and collecting more ‘specimens’. She still tells people about her discovery until this day and I’m hoping she’ll remember it as a magical and amazing part of her childhood.

The point of these random acts of mothering are to make fun and magical moments for our kids. In this way, I hope to at least once in a while move us beyond the standard, often canned, ways we celebrate our love for each other. I still organize the birthday parties and weekend activities that are expected. But the ones I truly enjoy are the unexpected, unusual ways I can show my daughters that I love them.

One time I hung colored streamers from our front

door all the way down the hallway to the living room.

When the kids came home from school, they were delighted and spent the whole rest of the afternoon running up and down the hallway, passing through the ‘hall of colors’. I’m not sure what impact these delights will have in the long run. I hope at the least they inculcate in them both a sense of wonder and a willingness to explore life.

Motherhood is an enormous, all consuming responsibility and the never-ending wants, needs and demands of a family can weigh a woman down. But I find that through these playful, unexpected random acts of mothering, I can inject a bit of levity and play into our daily lives.

For Mother’s Day, I’m planning a ‘random act of mothering’ that includes a treasure hunt. I’m still sorting the details but the plan will definitely require chocolate, some time spent outdoors and possibly a mani / pedi for me somewhere in the middle of it.

Happy Mother’s Day, Kuwait!

Jamie Etheridge is the founder of Kuwait Moms Guide. You can find out more by visiting their Facebook page: Kuwait Moms Guide, or their website www.kuwaitmomsguide.com.

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"LIFE OF PABLO" WAS ILLEGALLY

DOWNLOADED OVER 500,000 TIMES AND IT WAS KANYE'S FAULT

By Joe Berkowitz

After a seemingly endless hype cycle, Kanye West released his seventh album, The Life of Pablo, around midnight on February 13th. Announced during an appearance on Saturday Night Live, it was a bombastic end to a protracted lead-up that played out largely in real-time through tracklist-shakeups, title polls, and one reputation-scorching Bill Cosby endorsement. Considering Twitter's place in the rollout, it's only fitting that one of Kanye's tweets may have cost him a fortune in potential sales.

"Never say never" is a smart rule of thumb, and so is not saying never three times in a row 80

to the prospect of letting fans give you money in the way they prefer. By shooting down the idea of releasing The Life Of Pablo anywhere but JayZ's music service, Tidal, and a stream on his own website, Kanye more or less threw down the gauntlet for Tidagnostics to find other means of procuring a copy. (And even some of those who signed up with the company to get it had problems with the service’s payment system.) Although the limited distribution did secure Tidal a huge jump to the top of Apple's app list, the album itself is at the top of a more unfortunate list.

According to TorrentFreak.com, The Life of Pablo is "currently leading The Pirate Bay’s list of most shared music torrents by a landslide.

At the time of writing, close to 10,000 people were sharing a copy of the most popular torrent simultaneously, something we haven’t seen with a music release before." The album was pirated 500,000 times in its first day.

Tidal has existed for less than year, and its time on Earth has been fraught. There have been three CEOs, and the service is at least partially to blame for Rihanna's ANTI having a lackluster debut. The idea behind Tidal seemed to involve giving consumers another choice for paying for music. Making this service the only way to pay for desperately anticipated music, though, is the kind of thing that prompts reasonable people to choose stealing it.

wasabi

AStepping CONTEMPORARY MOMENT into spring at Harvey Nichols Kuwait By bazaar staff

Get ready to ring in the warm weather with Harvey Nichols! For Spring/Summer 2016, they’re opening their doors with a world of inspirational designs in fashion from international contemporary brands that are exclusive to their valued customers. Harvey Nichols wants to give you a sneak peek of their favorite brands on offer within their Contemporary department, and it’s safe to say that this roundup will bring a promising collection to keep their shoppers fresh and stylish with the latest trends.

1. Eggs: Eggs was launched in Parma, Italy

by Giordano Ollari and a small team of young designers, with the idea of bringing 'contemporary sensuality' back to affordable women’s wear. Eggs is about femininity based on the research for contemporary sensuality.

Their brand new creative team worked, as if for fun, to give visibility to high-waisted skirts, dresses, jackets, creating movement on fabric with graphic and floral prints, mixed and released in aggressive or fluorescent colors.

The result? A fresh, color-bright collection that is equal parts sophisticated, playful and carefree, with creativity and quality values made in Italy.

2. Zena Presley: Inspired by her interest for the expressionist art movement, Zena Presley’s second collection orchestrates a pivotal stance in the art-meets-fashion world. Striking a balance between femininity and strength, the collection encapsulates the contemporary artistic movement of expressionism. Taking inspiration from the modernist avant-garde style, Presley is drawn to portray the world solely from a subjective manner, distorting it radically to evoke one’s moods or ideas. The collection seeks to depict and express the meaning of emotional experience, through fashion as expressionism does via art.

3. Reemami: Born and raised in the UAE, 82

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young designer Reema Al Banna launched her label Reemami in 2009. The brand identity is shaped by Reema’s love for creativity, through having unexpected cuts and details, and treating each item as a piece of art. Reema also has a huge passion with experimenting with new cuts and creating new volumes, which give her line its signature style.

Reemami sets the boundaries for being the eclectic, bold, and playful fashion brand.

4. JNBY: JNBY, an acronym for “Just Naturally Be Yourself”, is a contemporary fashion apparel brand designed for women. Since its inception in 1994, JNBY is known as one of the pioneering designer-based enterprises in China. JNBY is urban, modern-driven and fashion forward yet timeless with its mostly natural fabrics and tasteful color plates (neutral earthy tones interspersed with fun bold hues). The brand has a reputation for its creativity, quality and originality and is about an individual's interpretation of trends.

5. Sandro: Evelyne Chetrite, the creative director and spirit of Sandro, draws her

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inspiration from streets, cities, architecture and memories from her childhood in Morocco.

Given her true creative spirit since her young age, it is only natural that she started a ready-to-wear brand. She founded Sandro in 1984. Each collection is designed to offer modern and sophisticated pieces with offbeat and unexpected detailing essential for every wardrobe. The Sandro silhouette is elegant and refined, with a hint of androgyny.

6. Maje: Maje, the name chosen by its founder, Judith Milgrom, is a combination of the initials of the first names of her loved ones. In 1998, Judith decided to create clothing for active women. At the time, no products were offered that fell between luxury and the mass market.

The Maje style sketches a subtle difference between modernity and quirkiness, with authentic pieces and sharp details. The Maje spirit is resolutely feminine, understated, glamorous and bold. Maje’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection is inspired by a traveler: relaxed and curious, Bohemian, and elegant always on the lookout for what could extend

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her summer indefinitely.

7. Tibi: Designer Amy Smilovic founded New York-based label Tibi whilst living in Hong Kong, where she was inspired by the local culture and textiles. Today, the brand is lauded by the fashion pack for its modern take on laid-back femininity and the effortless staples in vibrant palettes and prints. For Spring/Summer 2016, the collection is about forward movement—a celebration of the future.

In the spirit of contrasting old and new, fabrications are interpreted through a tonal, muted palette of creams, pinks, greens, blues, and burgundy that is both modern and optimistic.

8. Pinko: Italian brand Pinko’s woman is modern and cosmopolitan, a woman who loves to dress pretty; a woman with a strong personality and nature, and is truly dynamic. Pinko today is an extraordinary fashion reality of Made in Italy.

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9. Lugvonsiga: Turkish Designer Gul Agis launched the label in 2012 reflecting a new aesthetic and contemporar y style which comes from her rich cultural heritage. For Spring Summer 16, Gul’s designs reflect chic and comfor t. She has used a lot of linear details such as pleats, zigzag lines and stripes. To emphasize the “stylish and sleek” side of women, she has used the “off shoulder” neckline in her designs.

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Harvey Nichols Kuwait is located at Grand Avenue – The Avenues. Please call 2228 3008 for more information. Get social with Harvey Nichols Kuwait by following them on Facebook.com/HarveyNicholsKuwait and Instagram @HarveyNicholsKuwait.

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COULD IT SOON BE TIME TO YOUTUBE AND CHILL?

By David Pierson

The world’s biggest online video platform has officially cracked into the paid original content business as it premieres the first four titles produced for its new subscription service, YouTube Red. Included in the launch was: Dance Camp, a musical teen drama produced by digital network AwesomenessTV; Scare PewDiePie, a series that pairs YouTube sensation Felix Kjellberg with the creator of The Walking Dead and Maker Studios; A Trip to Unicorn Island, a documentary by another wildly popular YouTube star, Lilly Singh, and digital-first studio Astronauts Wanted; and Lazer Team a sci-fi comedy made by production company Rooster Teeth and Fullscreen Films.

The launch marks an important turning point for YouTube, which is largely responsible for kick-starting the online video revolution but hasn’t generated the same buzz as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video or Hulu in recent years.

Those streaming sites have enjoyed massive success with popular series such as House of Cards, Orange Is the New Black and Transparent.

YouTube hopes to do the same, but with cheaper productions and a decidedly younger audience that’s grown up watching YouTube and social media stars in lieu of traditional TV. “Initially, there’s going to be a strong focus on the fan base,” said Susanne Daniels, YouTube’s global head of original content and a former executive at MTV and Lifetime.

There are growing signs that YouTube’s 84

homegrown artists have permanently broken into the mainstream. Kjellberg made a recent appearance as a guest on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. Singh was a recent guest on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

And Tyler Oakley, another massive YouTube “influencer,” had a book land on the New York Times bestseller list and appears on CBS’ The Amazing Race.

“Each influencer has their unique voice,” said Matt Kaplan, head of AwesomenessTV’s film division. “There’s a reason why (millions) of people are watching them and it’s not just because it’s free.”

YouTube aims to release between 15 and 20 new titles on Red this year. That, combined with an ad-free experience, access to streaming music and offline video viewing, is how the company is promoting its $9.99 (KD 3) monthly service, which was launched in October 2015.

YouTube, which was bought by Google in 2006, has been in talks with Hollywood studios for more content for Red, but it’s unclear what that would include. YouTube declined to comment on what it called speculation.

It remains highly unlikely that Red will unseat Netflix, a cultural phenomenon backed by a big budget for premium programming. Netflix owes $10.9 billion (KD 3.5 billion) in content license fees alone. But comparing the two services may be unfair this early in the game, experts say.

“I think Netflix sees YouTube Red as a completely different beast,” said Alan Wolk,

a senior analyst at Diffusion Group, a media consulting firm. “Maybe it captures a segment of audience they wanted in the future, but not one they wanted now.”

That hasn’t stopped Netflix from encroaching into YouTube’s territory. The Los Gatos, Calif., company recently signed a deal with YouTube star Miranda Sings. A year earlier, another YouTube personality, Freddie Wong, sold his RocketJump series to Hulu. A successful showing by Red could help retain some of those YouTube stars, some of whom were paid bonuses not to jump ship.

The challenge will be persuading viewers who have long associated YouTube with free content to break out their credit cards (or more likely, their parents’ credit cards).

Given YouTube’s billion-plus viewers, even a small percentage of subscribers could make a big difference to the company’s bottom line.

“We calculate that even a low singledigit percentage rate conversion from free ad-supported to paid subscription will allow Google to monetize users at 10 times the annual (revenue per user) versus that derived just from advertising,” wrote analysts at Credit Suisse in a research note.

The bank expects YouTube to convert 3 percent of its users to Red subscribers over the next five years, giving Google (and its holding company Alphabet) a valuable new revenue stream beyond just search and advertising.

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BACK TO BASICS

Five elements that make up the perfect bed By bazaar staff

We’ve all experienced restless nights: lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to stay hopeful about the next morning. You are certainly not alone.

Did you know that more than 30% of the population suffers from insomnia? Factors such as caffeine, anxiety, schedule and routine, and mattresses can heavily affect your sleep. Nip those unhealthy lifestyle choices in the bud by drinking less caffeine, meditating, exercising, and updating your mattress!

Your bedroom is your comfort zone - a soothing place for you to gather your thoughts and unwind after a long day, and choosing the right bed and bedding are key components for comfort. As the leader in the furniture industry in Kuwait since 1947, Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co. (AAW) Furniture are here to help you get some welldeserved rest!

Embrace your inner morning person this 2016 by following these steps for the perfect bed: 1. Start with threads Thread count. We all know what it is, but do we understand what it means? When shopping for 86

bedding, never fixate on thread count— as they don’t necessarily add up to the best sheets. Seek high-quality cottons such as organic or Egyptian, 100% pure, even if available in a lower thread count.

Fabrics such as cotton are smooth and cool to the touch, and soften over time.

2. Consider your sheet collection Five sets too many, two sets too few? Prepare your home with this rule of thumb for sheet sets: for each bed in your home, have three sets - one for use, one in the laundry, and one in reserve.

3. Don’t skimp on comfort!

Like in a hotel room, layers are a key factor to a good night's sleep. Adding layers offers style, additional comfort, and temperature flexibility. When preparing your bed, begin with a fitted sheet, followed by a duvet or coverlet. Next, fold the top quarter of the duvet or coverlet and flat sheet down. Want to add a little extra to the look? Lay a quilt down folded in thirds at the foot of the bed! Keep in mind when choosing your seasonal fabrics: cottons for summer and heavier material for the winter.

4. Play with prints…

Introduce character and charm into your bedroom by utilizing your bedroom color palette and mixing

patterns and textures into your bedspread. Rule of thumb: Stick to one palette of cohesiveness when combining contrasting prints.

5. End it with style!

Pillows, pillows, pillows – essential for a cozy bed and good night’s sleep. Your pillow set is best layered from back to front: pillowcases in the back, euro shams next, and front facing pillows on top.

Rule of thumb: Two sets on a queen bed and three sets on a king.

Are you in the market for the perfect bed? Make a statement in your bedroom with the Emporium Upholstered Bed from Bassett Furniture, available at AAW Furniture showrooms. Inspired by European 19th Century antiques that create an eclectic mix of found unique items, this Smoked Oak finish bed and hardware features a classic revival style with knobs, rings, and Directoire shield back plates. It is detailed in a Dark Antique Brass finish.

Want to know more about AAW Furniture? Follow them on Instagram @AAWFURNITURE, contact the hotline at 180 4449, or visit one of their showrooms in Al Dajeej Airport Road 55 (2226 1720) and Al Shuwaikh Fourth Ring Road (2226 1890).

chil and grill

We created the perfect ambience for friends and families to chill out, relax and get ready for the weekend. Enjoy Chill N Grill barbecue nitghts every Wednesday with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and live background music.

For more information, visit jumeirah.com or call +965 222 69 666. /JumeirahMessilahBeach

@jumeirahmessilahbeach

@JumeirahMB

bazaar music "Music can change the world because it can change people." – Bono

BEFORE A MILLION UNIVERSES

By Big Ups

by Miike Snow

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NO FANTASY REQUIRED

Big Ups are due to release their new album Before A Million Universes this month. The American "punx" released their sought after debut back in 2013, with subsequent live shows revealing a real sense of venom in their performances. Returning with Before A Million Universes, Big Ups’ second LP comes following Eighteen Hours Of Static, a gripping, furious debut and the band have expanded on the sound of their debut. The album title borrows from a Walt Whitman quote - "let your soul stand cool and composed before a million universes" - while new cut 'National Parks' is a significant tonal shift.

Since the release of their 2012 sophomore album Happy to You, the Swedish indie pop band Miike Snow (composed of Andrew Wyatt, Pontus Winnberg and Galantis‘ Christian Karlsson) has been silent on social media. Early last year, the trio began posting some pretty odd images on their Facebook page. After a couple months of these photos, the trio became silent once again.

Fans haven't seen the band post anything for a long time, but recent news was much more involved. In it, we got some sort of album artwork, featuring the band’s logo with “iii” pasted over it, along with the announcement “We know you’ve been waiting… our new track ‘Heart is Full’ is coming soon. Stay tuned.”

Based in Canada, Tiga is a DJ/producer who has effectively worked the underground and the mainstream with his wry brand of campy electro and stark techno. Montreal Native Tiga has a new album dropping via Ninja Tune sublabel, Counter Records, on March 4. No Fantasy Required will be the Turbo Recordings' labelhead third LP, concluding "a trilogy of albums."

The full-length has also been described in a press release as "a masterwork of forwardlistening insanity." The LP features 11 tracks in total with collaborations from: Matthew Dear, Hudson Mohawke, Scissor Sisters' Jake Shears, one-half of Paranoid London and additional artists.

YOU AND I

POST POP DEPRESSION

By Jeff Buckley

By Iggy Pop

Nearly two decades after his accidental death, a previously undiscovered album of early Jeff Buckley recordings, including covers of Bob Dylan and an unheard, original song, will be released. Buckley, known for his cover of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah", drowned in 1997 while swimming in a channel of the Mississippi River. He was 30 years old. During his life, he only released one album, Grace, in 1994 and a handful of EPs, but his influence continues to be felt today. The new record, You and I, is an album of Buckley's first studio sessions for Columbia Records, mostly recorded in 1993.

Punk icon Iggy Pop is set to release a new album which he has secretly been working on with Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme. Called Post Pop Depression, the album features a backing band that includes Homme and his QOTSA bandmate Dean Fertita, as well as Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders.

Homme reveals that Pop’s 'Lust for Life' era was a starting point for the pair. “Where those records pointed, it stopped. But without copying it, that direction actually goes for miles,” Homme says. “And when you keep going for miles you can’t see these two records any more.”

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By Tiga

CHAOSMOSIS

By Primal Scream

Scottish rockers Primal Scream have announced the title and track list for their 11th studio album. Chaosmosis will be released on March 18th via their own imprint First International and is available for pre-order. The LP will follow up the band's acclaimed 2013 album More Light, which featured the single "It's Alright, It's OK." Their album before More Light, 2008's Beautiful Future, was the group's first without founding member and guitarist Robert "Throb" Young, who left that band in 2006 and passed away last year. Beautiful Future featured a hefty list of guest collaborators, including Linda Thompson, Lovefoxxx, Lykke Li and Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age.

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THE BURROW We’re all mad here By bazaar staff

So far, 2016 has carried 2015’s fitness torch brilliantly by introducing new and wonderful ways for people to get and/or stay fit. This time, the torch has led us down the rabbit hole where we discovered a wonderland of fitness at The Burrow. Marked solely by their logo, an abstract rabbit’s head, it’s quite easy to miss entirely or stumble into as you peruse the café scene at the Murouj Complex. Inspired entirely by Lewis Caroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, it all feels a little topsy-turvy whilst packing a literal punch. The bazaar team was lucky enough to find its way into this fitness haven and we stepped through the looking glass into this gym to find out more.

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Right off the bat, you won’t realize you’ve entered a gym due to the lack of a traditional reception area. As soon as you walk in, you’re met with mirrored walls in front of you with a simple, slanted red door resting nonchalantly on the mirror. Seating is available on either side to welcome wear y visitors to grab a seat and wait for someone to greet you and offer a tour. This doesn’t take long, since there’s usually someone on the premise waiting to greet random dropins. Within this unassuming room, you’ll notice some mismatched items decorating the space. Take them all in and enjoy the space’s quirky sense of humor – from the old-school bike in one corner to the par tial rowing machine in the other, the place is set to mimic Alice’s home above ground.

Don’t leave the “reception” area just yet, because just to your right – assuming you’re back is to the front door – is a wonderful

spacious yoga studio that will soon enough be offering ballet-barre training too! You’re then led through the rabbit hole where you can find identical changing areas to either side – a men’s locker room and a women’s locker room – marked by the King of Spades or the Queen of Hear ts. Go into your designated area to find subway inspired lockers and spacious changing areas and showers to get you ready before and after your intense workout session. Equipped with your basic essential needs, all you need to bring is your sense of wonder, a change of clothes and a ton of enthusiasm.

Once you’re through the rabbit holeesque hallway, you’ll find yourself in a room filled with CrossFit equipment on one side, regulation punching bags on the other, and a regulation boxing ring smack in the middle.

Affiliated with the CrossFit association, their equipment and training is fully cer tified.

The coaches and trainers there, well lets just say they’re all ready to work you to the bone. Leaving no room for “I can’t,” “this is too hard” or “I quit!” you’re pushed to your extreme potential, and a little fur ther still to achieve your pre-set personal goals.

Be sure to check out the left wall for some fun hidden ar twork painted directly into the stone facade.

On both sides of the room are hidden rooms – one is a spin studio and the other a multipurpose room for all other “undesignated-space” activities The Burrow decides to offer. Walk up the stairs on the far left and head upstairs to check out their relaxation and self-propelled workout space – they also have a wicked smoothie bar and boutique for all your fashion-workout needs. “Your body is all the equipment you really need” is a statement heard several

times over with true fitness gurus, and at The Burrow, it’s no different. There are blocks you can use for step-ups and basejumps, but the real show stoppers are the treadmills and bikes that only work when you star t moving. No, really. The treadmill is powered entirely by you, and it will only go as fast you go.

Completely invested in their members, the coaches will all know your name and will hound you if you miss too many classes or workouts. The first thing you notice about The Burrow is that it’s more of a community than a regular gym. Ever yone is suppor tive and will help you reach your fitness goal in a fun and safe environment. While their focus is mainly on group classes, you’re more than welcome to come in and do your own thing – granted you don’t get in the way of group classes.

Personal Training is available but it’s entirely up to the trainers to decide if they can offer you that or not. But their classes are what take the cake. While spin, yoga and CrossFit classes are well-known, there’s a plethora of options like Muay Thai, Boxing and sparring, and of course, Bootcamp.

Offering memberships that are monthly and yearly – and the regular suspects in between – you’re bound to find something that suites your needs.

Disclaimer: No rabbits, White or other species, were harmed in the making of this burrow!

For a mad workout followed by royal pains, fall into The Burrow – located around the back in the Murouj Complex, Sabhan. Follow them on Instagram @TheBurrowLife for more information!

Photography courtesy of Paris Recinto.

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STARTUP KUWAIT

The National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Challenge By bazaar staff

In an effort to create a comprehensive and thriving ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs across Kuwait, five universities have come together to create an innovation and entrepreneurship challenge to ignite Kuwait’s youth and provide them with a support system to realize their future goals and aspirations. The Startup Kuwait “National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Challenge” brings together the efforts of Kuwait University’s Global Center at the College of Business Administration, Gulf University for Science and Technology, American University of Kuwait, Australian College of Kuwait and Box Hill College Kuwait. Students from the participating universities will engage in an Entrepreneurship Challenge where the best team’s ideas would be chosen from different universities by local, regional, and international juries. The winners would then advance to compete nationally (end May).

Spearheaded by Dr. Redha Behbehani, Director of The Global Center at College of Business Administration at Kuwait University, the Startup “Kuwait National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Challenge” launched in February 2016. He stated, “We are very pleased with the broader participation among all these schools as the numbers of teams combined from mentioned schools includes more than one hundred students.”

Throughout February, March, April and May, Startup Kuwait would be inviting entrepreneurs and business leaders to share their experiential journey and attend the business plan competitions at each college (end April) and the Startup Kuwait National Competition (end May). The invited entrepreneurs in part will collaborate with participating universities to create entrepreneurship content and to directly work with the students teams.

A prime example that demonstrates the expertise brought by the Global Center to this multi-disciplinary challenge was the recent visit of Mr. Nish Acharya, CEO of Citizence and former lead advisor to President Obama on innovation and entrepreneurship, and former director of Deshpande Center for Technological Innovation at MIT. Mr. 92

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Founder of Choowy Goowy, Essa Behbehani Nish presented to students and faculty at all five universities participating in Startup Kuwait, including Kuwait University, Box Hill College, Australian College of Kuwait, American University of Kuwait, and GUST. Over 600 students discussed their entrepreneurial ideas through professional training exercises to further focus their ideas into actionable plans.

For Acharya, the trip confirmed that Kuwait boasts tremendous entrepreneurial potential, and that with the proper training, entrepreneurship programs and support from mentors and investors, the region can launch many startups with global potential.

Box Hill College Kuwait’s Dr. Arezou Harraf stated that the best approaches to spur learning and innovation provide a platform for students to undertake projects and initiatives that involve complex tasks that will inspire students to bring forth ingenuity. The Startup Kuwait National Competition is a perfect example of such a platform. She further elaborated that in support of this initiative, workshops by Mr. Nish Acharya garnered large audiences who brainstormed and fine-tuned their business ideas while having the opportunity to receive feedback from Mr. Acharya, faculty and peers.

Further to the workshops by Mr. Acharya, in February speaker series, Mr. Essa Behbehani, the creator of Choowy Goowy visited BHCK and presented a well-received seminar on entrepreneurship, which inspired the participants and as a result two new teams joined the initiative. GUST and ACK joined

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in a collaborative effort to encourage and support Startup Kuwait by hosting Mr. Essa Behbehani’s entrepreneurship seminar with over 250 attendees and many students standing in attendance.

The dean of College of Business Administration at GUST Dr. Mohammed Elian explained that as part of its continuous endeavor to foster entrepreneurship among its students and graduates, GUST joined hands with The Global Center at College of Business Administration, Kuwait University to launch Startup Kuwait. He further pointed out that since 2007, GUST has been conducting the Practicum in Business/MIS, which is a unique program aimed at equipping students with the tools need to succeed on their entrepreneurial journey.

Dr. Sam Toglaw, Head of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Unit at ACK, explained that since the launch of “Startup Kuwait”, ACK took proactive steps to incorporate the competition in some units taught in the degree program. For AUK students, joining the Startup Kuwait Competition plays an important role in the development of students’ entrepreneurial skills, and Dr. Wang, the dean of the College of Business and Economics, also shed light on the importance of learning from local faculty as well as entrepreneurs, and experts from around the world. To keep up the momentum for Startup Kuwait initiative, other local, regional and international speakers have been scheduled to share their entrepreneurial journey experience with participating universities.

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bazaar checks it out

HOW FAR CAN YOUR CREATIVITY GO WITH A CAN OF RED BULL? Red Bull Art of Can 2016, Featuring digital displayed art Ever thought how far one can go with just creativity and a can of Red Bull? Following the success of Red Bull Art of Can 2011, the event is returning this year and will be giving talents from Kuwait the chance to go with inspiration to new heights. The masterpiece can be anything – a sculpture, a painting, photography, dress, music, movie or digital illustration. This year, a new category will be featured; in addition to the physical art, digitally displayed art will be introduced to the competition for the first time. The physical piece of art should include the actual Red Bull can as the primary material in the final work. However, the digital displayed art is a work of art that can be displayed on a screen and should include a digital version of the Red Bull can in the final piece. Submissions could take the form of an animation, a digital short film, stop motion, or GIF. The Red Bull Art of Can offers a platform for anyone, regardless of age, who wants to explore his or her creative talent. Artists, students, grandparents and all those in between are invited to submit their works of art. The Red Bull Art of Can is a true expression of one's imagination, with little or no restrictions placed on the budding artist. Your primary material/inspiration must be a Red Bull can, but you will need to add plenty of imagination and creativity. Make a sculpture, a picture, a 3D model, a mobile, digital illustration or a piece of modern art, but make it beautiful, colorful, clever or amusing. The project will culminate in a premium art exhibition, where the selected pieces will be displayed and the top three pieces awarded prizes. The judges will select the winners who will be announced on the opening night of the exhibition.

The application phase starts on the 1st of March and extends to 6 weeks until the 16th of April. Later on, the selection of the artworks will take place by the 25th of May 2016 and June 6th will be the opening of the Exhibition Premiere followed by two week exhibition open for the public. The closing date for receipt of the finalized works of art is 16th of April. Afterwards, the organizers will shortlist the entrants qualified to participate in “The Art of Can” exhibition based on creativity, theme and final presentation. The art of creating masterpieces out of Red Bull cans started back in 1999. Exhibitions have been held all around the globe from Europe to New Zealand. Countries like Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Singapore, USA, UAE, Kuwait and many more. This year, Red Bull Art of Can will be taking place in Kuwait only.

Applications can be submitted online by registering at www.redbull.com/artofcankw or through calling the hotline on 6640 6020. Find out more about Red Bull on Twitter and Instagram @redbullkuwait.

DID YOU ENJOY YOUR DISH, GENLTEMEN? "Did you enjoy your dish, gentlemen?" is a performance of one actor from the strange world of restaurants and waiters. The actor plays more than twenty different characters using minimal props and counts on the active imagination of the audience. The play is a mixture of theatre, mime, clown art, absurdity and dance. It is a physical comedy

by Pavol Seriš. Pavol Seriš is a young Slovak comedian and a graduate of the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Brno. He studied physical theatre, and is now continuing as a PhD student. He writes his own plays and often performs in Slovakia, Czech Republic and other international countries. "Did you enjoy your dish, gentlemen?" was performed at various festivals in Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Austria, Italy, Kosovo, Morocco, Iran and Lebanon. It was performed in Kuwait last February at Al Shaheed Park.

For information on upcoming Loyac events and initiatives, visit www.loyac.org. Contact them on Facebook: loyackwt, or Twitter and Instagram @loyackuwait.

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Centerpoint

THE REGENCY HOTEL, KUWAIT LAUNCHES “FROM GREECE TO KUWAIT” 5 DAY FOOD FESTIVAL Under the patronage of H. E. Dr Theodoros J Theodorou the Greek Ambassador to Kuwait, The Regency Hotel, Kuwait launched on the 7th February 2016, its first “from Greece to Kuwait” five day food festival. The event which took place at the hotel’s main restaurant Silk Road, was attended by delegates from the Greek Embassy in Kuwait as well as members of the press. Together with department heads from the hotel, all guests were welcomed by The Regency’s General Manager Mr. Aurelio Giraudo and special host guests from Greece, Chef Yiannis Tsivourakis and Chef Papaderakis Michalis. During the five day promotion, guests enjoyed a variety of Greek cuisine dishes prepared by the famous chefs, featuring the world-famous Greek national dish “Greek Moussaka” (an oven-baked layer dish: ground meat and eggplant casserole), lamb slowly cooked in olive oil with Cretan herbs and lemon, Mushrooms Greek style, Greek style cheese cake and much more. On his comment on the promotion, the General Manager of the Regency Hotel, Kuwait Mr. Aurelio Giraudo said “we are so pleased about the success of the Greek food debut. And I would like to thank Chef Yiannis Tsivourakis and Chef Papaderakis Michalis for their great efforts put together with the Regency’s team to make it happen. And of course, special thanks to our guests for appreciating this initiative and for their continuous support to their one and only leading hotel in Kuwait, The Regency”. Silk Road Restaurant at The Regency Hotel, Kuwait features luxurious panoramic view of the swimming pool and Arabian Gulf and is considered to be one of the finest restaurants in Kuwait that continuously serves extensive culinary offerings with a rich variety of foods prepared by a group of professional chefs from all over the world.

The Regency Hotel, Kuwait is a multi-award winning five star hotel property and is recognized as Kuwait’s “Leading Luxury Hotel” and Kuwait’s “Leading Conference Hotel” (World Travel Awards 2013-2015). With 152 rooms and 51 suites the hotel offers excellent, five star service, a wide choice of restaurants and lounges as well as perfect beaches, swimming pools and views of the Arabian Gulf.

For more information please visit www.theregencykuwait.com or call 2576 6666.

THE NEW CAFÉ MEEM OPENS AT SEA VIEW IN MAHBOULA The scent of freshly roasted coffee fills the restaurant, engulfing its visitors with nostalgic feelings associated with the early morning hours. Visitor’s first take notice of the most delicious kinds of breakfast dishes that decorate their tables with fresh items imported specially from Lebanon, and bakery items prepared on demand that come to you directly from the oven. Café Meem presents a family atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. With its charming ambiance, Café Meem at Sea View in Mahboula is the destination for gourmet and breakfast enthusiasts who are drawn by varieties of fresh food and coffee items. The café was newly opened as part of MMC Catering’s strategy to improve and develop its restaurants in accordance with the fast-evolving local community, in order to present a unique dining experience. In this regard, Lamya Sebti, Director of Marketing at MMC Catering said: “Café Meem is designed to inspire the taste buds with bold flavors brought to you straight from the oven, prepared with fresh ingredients to create a homey atmosphere” “With its new look, Café Meem presents a wide variety of items, including main courses and side dishes prepared freshly, in addition to varieties of items imported specially from Lebanon,” Sebti added. And as Café Meem returns to its customers with a new look, the restaurant’s management was keen on presenting a new menu, updated interior design while adding to the highest levels of innovation, quality and customer service the café includes. Café Meem is a completely new experience that will delight any food lover, while still remaining a go to location to relax, have a cup of coffee, and feel at home.

Get in touch with Café Meem at www.meemcafe.com.

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bazaar goes dining

FAUCHON LE GOURMET From Paris, with love By bazaar staff

Nestled in the folds of the Salhiya Mall, a new concept has emerged – Le Gourmet Café by Fauchon. Two menus appear on your table once you take your seat, the gourmet menu with gold accents and their highly recognizable cafe menu. While the cafe menu continues to offer our beloved selection of Fauchon’s timeless delicacies, their new one exclusively created for Le Gourmet - was a bit of a mystery. Walking past the diners to our table, we noticed some of the dishes they were enjoying weren’t the usual go-to selections.

Curious, we hurriedly opened the new menu to explore the contents and were pleasantly surprised. While the selection may be small, it was exotic and guaranteed to shake things up – gastronomically speaking of course.

Introducing quintessential Parisian elegance in meal form, you no longer need to journey to Paris to enjoy those dishes – or the fresh-baked bread with a side of olive oil and fresh herbs to dip in to.

B r o u g h t i n f r e s h f r om t he U SA , th e Pr e m i u m Te n d e r l oi n o f Kobe Beef se l e c t i o n i s g l o r i ous . Yo u c an enj oy t h e bee f d e p e n d i n g o n how adv ent u r ous y ou are – i n fi l l e t f or m , as a Car p a c c i o o r Ta r t a r e . We d e c i ded t o i n d u l g e i n t h e i r Bee f S t e a k Ta r t ar e . T he m eat wa s t ender and m e l t e d i n our m out h s ac c om p a n i e d w i t h a b e a u ti f ul c r unc h f r o m t h e i r bag u e t t i n e c r i s p s and f r es h g r e e n s .

Bur st i n g w i t h f l av o r, t h e f i n e l y c h o p p e d raw b e e f s t e a k i s m i x e d and m ar i n a t ed in condiments and a bouquet of fresh her b s a n d sp i c es . Pe r f e c t i o n w i t h ev er y bit e , t h e m e a t was p r epped ex per t l y a n d pre s e n t e d b e a u t i f ul l y.

Following our admiration of the Beef Steak Tar tare, we welcomed a gloriously pink platter of freshly prepared Norwegian Salmon, the Salmon F illet Gravlax.

Wonderfully thin slices of salmon fillet are cured with fresh dill and citrus zest. Have

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it alone or with a dab of dill cream, the flavors will impress either way. The freshly julienned vegetable medley, ser ved with a subtle soy vinaigrette, added a delicious depth to the salmon’s flavor. Nothing was too overpowering and the concoctions complimented each other, giving the entire dish an uplifting flavor profile.

Next on our selection of dishes was their Homemade Foie Gras (duck liver) Terrine.

Traditionally slow cooked to perfection in a clay pot, the Foie Gras was ser ved with beautifully buttered and seared brioche slices and a date chutney. The Foie Gras had a naturally nutty texture while the date chutney cut into its sharpness with the added smoothness from the flamed loaf.

Each bite offered a medley of sweetness and tar tness, while the exper t use of the date chutney gave this quintessential French dish a modern Middle Eastern twist.

Just remember, a little goes a long way with the Foie Gras, so be sure to spread some on your bread before adding the chutney and indulging in this smooth and subtle dish.

We continued our French dining journey with a platter of Fresh Oysters. Presentation and additions are key when it comes to oysters. Freshly opened, the oysters are ready for consumption on an iced bowl of sea salt. With a squeeze of lemon and a splash of shallot vinegar, you take your little spoon and wriggle the oysters out of the shell and enjoy. You can almost taste the delicate flavors of the sea amidst the shallot vinegar concoction. Enjoy it with a side of sliced r ye and some herbed butter.

Thinking this was the last of the savor y dishes, they presented us with their piece de resistance.

Beautifully arranged shells filled to the brim with garlic parsley butter and a side of bread sticks, we sat amazed at how delectable they looked. The Escargot, or Snails Burgundy as they referred to in their menu, were wonderfully baked with the garlic parsley butter filling. You’re presented with a device to hold the shell in place with one hand while with the other, negotiating a small fork into the shell to pull out the contents. Slather the garlic parsley butter onto the bread, top it off with the cooked snail and take a bite – you’ll thank us later.

Overflowing with flavor, the snails were perfect and the accompanying bread gave them an added crunch that only enhanced the dish as a whole. We were pleasantly surprised and equally delighted.

Molecular gastronomy is a fairly new concept in Kuwait, and Fauchon are giving people a spectacular introduction through their Le Gourmet’s exclusive desser ts.

Let’s star t off by saying the desser t is never entirely assembled until they reach your

table. To star t our sugar-fueled journey, we had the Black Forest Cream Brûlée. From the bottom upward, you get a silky smooth Manjari dark chocolate cream topped off with perfectly spiced cherr y compote covered entirely by a subtle rose cream – the Brûlée came in the form of a crispy caramel galette that is then up to you to crack to reach the delicious layers. Then came the Blooming Lotus which was literally plated to appear as a flower in bloom. At the center you have a dark chocolate mousse with a delicious mango compote over a delectable pistachio sponge. It’s then topped off with a caramelized lotus crumble before being encased in dark chocolate petals – the blooming effect comes with the warm lotus sauce that is then poured over it, forcing the petals to literally bloom.

Leaving the most spectacular for last,

we were presented with the Egg’spectation.

Made with a beautiful coconut cremeux, it is then topped with dark chocolate cream and chocolate crumble giving it a dirt-like effect with chunks of coconut sponge and poached pineapple pieces. The egg part comes in the form of a white chocolate egg that is then cracked over the dish, revealing a runny pineapple compote yolk and coconut glaze egg-white. This, was our absolute favorite dish from the start of the presentation to the last spoonful of delicious creamy goodness – bringing our visit to a delightful end.

An experience not to be missed, visit Fauchon’s Le Gourmet Café now! Located opposite Trafalgar inside Salhiya Mall in Kuwait City, you can follow them on Instagram for more information and glorious food images @Fauchon_Kuwait.

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QUICK TIPS FOR SHORT BREAKS

Jazeera Airways’ four-step guide to traveling during busy seasons By bazaar staff

The next few months are going to be filled with holidays, and when that happens, we can expect the people of Kuwait to rush to the airport in hordes – especially when traveling during short breaks during long weekends or Holidays.

Avoid the headache by following a few tips and tricks missed when preparing that could make or break your trip: 1. Do your research Before packing, confirm your airline’s regulations, baggage allowances, on-time performance, and online check-in capabilities – helping you calculate how early you need to arrive at the airport before your departure.

Traveling without any check-in luggage? Then shave time off by utilizing services like Jazeera Airways’ online check-in service and fast baggage drop.

It’s always best to avoid flying on the evening before a holiday in order to avoid long lines or packs of travelers. Want to save money on a trip? Then try your best to book your ticket three weeks in advance, as most airlines reward early bookers with big savings.

Delays are unavoidable, so plan ahead and research your airline’s on-time performance (OTP). To ensure you don’t get stuck at the airport due to delays, book an airline with a very high OTP; a reliability rate above 92% works. In Kuwait, the only airline with an OTP above that is Jazeera Airways with an on-time record of 94.3% in 2015.

2. Check for baggage allowance before you book Some airlines nowadays allow only one free check-in piece per passenger, while others make you pay for all check-in pieces. Airlines like Jazeera Airways don’t charge for the first two checked pieces of baggage and offer very generous weight allocations - that’s 60kg in Business, and 40kg in Economy.

When packing, it’s best to start by making a checklist of items to ensure you haven’t missed anything.

Categorizing will make the process easier, such as listing apparel, accessories, shoes, beauty, and toiletries. Make sure liquids are packed according to your airport’s regulations, and to check weather advisories at your destination ahead of time.

3. Fuel up!

Pack sealed drinks and snacks for you and your family to have available during your trip to the airport, at the gate or upon arrival. It’s always great to find time to grab food before your flight, but with long queues and unexpected delays, it’s best to have items on-hand if needed, particularly if traveling with children.

4. Checking in and your carry-on Most airlines limit passengers to an average 7kg in carry-on allowance, so utilize it wisely. Jazeera Airways offers passengers a carry-on baggage allowance of two pieces, combined total weight of 15kg for business 100

travelers, and one piece, 7kg total weight for economy travelers, with permitted baggage dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.

When it comes to checking-in, we recommended doing so online if your airline and destination allows for it.

Airlines like Jazeera Airways enable travelers to checkin online, or utilize their self-check-in kiosks at Kuwait International Airport to collect boarding passes in just minutes. Using this service resolves any issues with a late departure drop-offs, misplacing your ticket, and dealing with crowds or queues - allowing you more time to grab a coffee and de-stress before your flight.

Your carry-on items should contain: • Travel documents and valuables - travel wallets work best to keep things together, and make sure any valuables are on you, and not in your checked-in baggage • Gadgets and cables - make sure these are easily accessible and can be pulled out for instant security checks

• Travel sized hygienic tools - it’s best to keep these easily accessible and in a transparent airtight pouch • Sustenance - avoid air pressure by chewing gum, or enjoying a few mints during takeoff and landing!

• Comfort necessities - ideal for the on-board sleeper When it comes to traveling, particularly during the holidays, there is a lot to organize and plan ahead before your departure. Taking the time to sort this out ahead of time will take away a lot of stress a peak season trip may cause you and your family.

Happy travels!

Want to know more about Jazeera Airways? Follow them on Instagram and Twitter @JazeeraAirways, Facebook: JazeeraAirways, contact the call center at 177, or visit them online at www.jazeeraairways.com.

that alsalasil

bazaar a la mode H&M COLLABORATES WITH THE COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL FOR 2016 H&M teams up once again with the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, creating a co- branded collection for girls and guys under the claim #HMLovesCoachella. Catching the on-the-road vibe and aesthetic, H&M delivers a street-savvy collection infused with playfulness, ease and a sense of belonging. The collection features a line-up of iconic pieces and freewheeling playfulness. The overall look is about personal style, mixing, not matching, and conveying a message of ease and freedom. For girls, the collection includes folksy blouses, beaded and fringed tops, allover print jumpsuits, denim cut-offs, and accessory essentials including floppy hats, sunglasses, and flat boots. Hemlines are short and embellishments provide a crafty tingle. For boys, it's all about printed T-shirts and mismatched shirts, bermudas, and denim shorts. "Last year, H&M was the first brand to team up with Coachella to develop a clothing collection. The success was so rapid and so widespread; we decided to partner again to create an even richer offering this season. We love Coachella because we enjoy its democratic spirit and the bonding experience it creates. To us, Coachella is about using fashion and music to express energy and that is what is reflected in this collection,” says Ross Lydon, designer at H&M. Follow H&M on Facebook and Twitter @HMKUWAIT and Instagram @HM. The #HMLovesCoachella collection will be available in stores from March 31st.

SOLARIS – THE ULTIMATE SUNGLASS SELECTION Solaris, the region’s first dedicated designer sunglass boutique, has long been dedicated to bringing you the very best in sunglass fashion from leading designer brands like Tom Ford, Fendi, Dior and Gucci. In March, Solaris welcomes on board G-Star, the latest addition to their exclusive sunglass selection of over 50 designer labels. Since its creation in the Netherlands in 1989, G-Star’s philosophy has always been ‘Just the product’. Better known for their denims, the company’s G-Star Raw eyewear collection is driven by the same passion for soulful and distinctive design, high-level craftsmanship and appreciation of the raw beauty of the materials used. A favorite with stars like Liv Tyler, Pharrell Williams, Gemma Arterton and Afrojack, G-Star has already made its mark in the celebrity circles. The G-Star sunglass collection is hard to miss, with its straight cut lenses and sleek construction the sunglasses a very structural and stylish. In addition, the iconic screw, industrial code on the temple and perforated temple tips are the brand’s characteristic features that emphasize the G-Star’s drive for authenticity. Predominantly a male collection, the range also offers unisex models that will allow both men and women to make a unique style statement.

The G-Star sunglass collection can be found at Solaris in 2nd Avenues - The Avenues, and Marina Mall in Kuwait; Bahrain City Centre in Bahrain; Villaggio Mall and Doha City Centre in Qatar; and Mercato, Dubai Mall and YAS Mall in the UAE.

CHOPARD REVEALS THE SPIRIT OF ITS ICONIC HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION IN AN EXCEPTIONAL EVENT IN KUWAIT Chopard, together with partner Trafalgar, have hosted a one-of-a-kind and original event to share the happy spirit of its iconic Happy Diamonds Collection with their guests. Ever since its creation, the Chopard Happy Diamonds Collection has distinguished itself by the joyful swirl of precious dancing diamonds. Delicate and timeless, yet daring and modern, the Happy Diamonds Collection portrays independent personalities: seizing the moment and living their lives to the fullest, today’s young women are blessed with a contagious cheerfulness that makes them radiant. The latest Happy Diamonds jewelry collection was inspired by nature and represents pop art inspired flowers with a modern twist. The floral Happy Diamonds Collection comprises a pendant, ring and earrings in 18ct white or rose gold. Also, Chopard’s most iconic collection has similarly nurtured in the past a passion for hearts. Its Happy Hearts Collection likewise acquired a new look when Chopard revisited this love collection by combining its lucky charm, the heart, with precious colors. Henceforth, the traditionally openwork hearts have now become “solid” turquoise, onyx or mother-of-pearl hearts placed along slim white or rose gold chains. The playful spirit of the Happy Diamonds Collection is also found in the Happy Diamonds signature design watches where mobile and free of all settings, diamonds dance joyfully between two sapphire crystals.

For more information on Chopard, and Trafalgar, visit www.trafalgarkuwait.com.

ATHLETIC AESTHETICS A relative newcomer to the everyday wardrobe, the sneaker has come to represent a shift towards a healthier, active lifestyle.

Athletic aesthetic is a fast-growing trend, and we are showing our healthy lifestyle through everything from the food we eat to the fashion we adopt. No wonder, that for urban, fashion-savvy women on the go, sneakers and other sporty fashion references are the new black. ECCO introduces a new ECCO INTRINSIC sport/lifestyle sneaker collection packed with high-end design features and technical refinements adapted to fit today’s energetic urbanistas. The sneakers combine comfort and stability featuring direct-injected soles that zigzag across the bottom of the shoe. With its innovative combination of soft leather and patented knit fabrics, the ECCO INTRINSIC series is designed for all those who prioritize athletic living while staying completely on-trend. The sneakers lend active-wear a new, aesthetic flair, all while working their magic wherever the day takes you, from the gym to the streets to the shops and cafes.

You can find ECCO in Kuwait at The Avenues, Marina Mall, Mohallab, Muthanna, Al-Kout and Promenade Mall.

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Invisibobble adds a new dimension to hair styling.

invisibobble Comfortable and easy wraps around the hair securely allowing it to place without being too loose.

to use, it evenly and be held in tight or too

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

GIFT THE ONE WHO LOVES YOU MOST AT JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA Make the most of your time with the one who loves you eternally. We know she deserves more than just a day, but why not make this occasion an unforgettable one at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa. Celebrate your mother’s unwavering love with thoughtful surprises in Kuwait’s most beautiful resort. Delight her with a lavishly themed buffet at Garden Café Restaurant, the place for international cuisine. With a delectable spread of culinary specialties prepared by award-winning chefs for this special occasion, enjoy quality time reminiscing shared memories together over delicious food in a lovely atmosphere overlooking the hotel’s charming gardens. Moreover, don’t miss the special offer for the booking of five persons and above, the mother will enjoy a complimentary lunch buffet.

After a sumptuous lunch, treat your cherished mother with a well-deserved indulgent retreat at Talise Spa where she can relax and unwind from head to toe. Gentle and nurturing, like mother’s are, the 90-minute Mother’s Renewal treatment is comprised of a welcoming foot ritual for tiring feet, a facial for radiance, and a blissfully soothing massage all for KWD 70. Guaranteed to make her feel loved, appreciated, and pampered!

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is located at Al Ta’awun Street. For restaurant bookings call 2226 9666 and for spa bookings call 2226 9688 or visit www.jumeirah.com.

DARK KISS EAU DE PARFUM – THE MIDDLE EAST’S FAVORITE FRAGRANCE !

The inimitable exotic blend of blackberry, plum and smoky dark vanilla is one of the most unique fragrances to grace the region, and the Daily Trio brings you the ultimate experience! After a lathering, sumptuous cleansing shower gel, layer on the moisturizing, pampering lotion and add the finishing fragrance touches with the incredible fine fragrance mist! Want the electric aroma to dazzle through the day or night? Add that extra touch of elegance and sophistication with a few sprays of the NEW Dark Kiss Eau de Parfum. Key fragrance notes: with top notes of Bergamot, Incense, Mirabelle Plum and Black Raspberry, mid notes of Amber, Burgundy Rose, Geranium and Peony and dry notes of Dark Vanilla Bean, Labdanum, Vetiver, Sensual Balsam, Musks. It’s time to experience the most daring fragrance at Bath & Body Works!

Bath and Body Works is located at The Avenues, Marina, Al Fanar, Gate and Souq Sharq malls. For more information on their products, visit www.bathandbodyworks.com.

ADOLFO DOMINGUEZ MAN SS16 The men’s Spring-Summer 2016 collection explores new horizons, guided by instinct and savoir-faire. The designer Adolfo Domínguez imagines a man who is setting out on a road trip along the legendary Route 66. A coast to coast journey giving rise to a collection marked by its authenticity and its innovation. It is a journey from the deep blue sea to the scorched desert: skyblue and sand. The signature prints, lifted with touches of watercolor, reflect the landscapes of the route. The dusty horizon is expressed with delavé finishes. The stones on road are not obstacles, but a scattering of gray and black that converse with the green brushstrokes of the cactus. The trip takes us to a destination filled with warm colors and pastel shades. The minimalist design is expressed in black and white to highlight the technical details: elastic fastenings, thermosealed seams, waterproof zips and neoprene foams, that contrast with the hints of artisan touches and a predilection for materials with character. Deconstructed tailoring continues as a key element: a hallmark of our firm’s identity. Natural fabrics – linen, cotton and merino wool – feature in their pure form and in innovative blends, such as the Technolinen, which combines linen and the finest quality Italian cotton. The importance we place on the latest generation vegan material gives rise to an extra-soft eco-leather, like a caress.

Check out Adolfo online at www.adolfodominguez.com.

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BAKER & SPICE

A sneak peek at Kuwait’s brand new gastro hot spot By bazaar staff

Huddled in one of the corners of the scenic Souq Sharq, there is a new eatery that is sure to fill our tummies with joy. Artisanal kitchen, café and bakery Baker & Spice is now open in the lavish shopping mall, overlooking a gorgeous view of the harbor and offering both indoor and outdoor seating options.

Since Baker & Spice’s Middle Eastern debut in 2009, the region’s interest in clean eating and wholesome ingredients has increased, and now that this renowned yummy haven has made its way from Dubai to our seaside plates, our organic needs can continue to be fulfilled.

Baker & Spice, for those who are unfamiliar, is a restaurant group that is known for making everything from scratch – bread and baked goods included – in its own kitchen. The result? Everything tastes amazing, and the menu is interchangeable 106

as the restaurant is adamant on using local and seasonal ingredients. For example, if you were to order a decadent piece of cheesecake for dessert to pair with their amazing fresh ground Arabica bean coffee, then expect to see it topped with blueberries one season and strawberries the next.

Baker & Spice is designed thoughtfully with all types of diners in mind. It emits a calming atmosphere decorated in a simple color scheme of soothing grays and powder clouded blue hues with earthy wood tones and light sea foam, contrasted with pops of pumpkin orange detailing adorning the space.

The seating is rustic and has a communal feel to it, making for an optimal setting to dine with friends and family. At the same time, the environment exudes chill vibes without pretention, making it perfectly acceptable and accommodating for solo diners to come alone, laptop or book in tow, to sit down and get some work done in peace while enjoying a quick meal, snack or refreshing beverage.

The ethos of using simple and local ingredients is what sets this place aside from others. Baker & Spice is a concept originated

by Yael Mejia, who collaborated with Kharafi Global in Dubai, which lead to its recent opening in Kuwait and future expantion in the GCC. It makes the effort to personalize itself according to each city where it is housed, with the belief that by using local ingredients, you’ll get a taste for the locals. In this case, it’s evident that Kuwait’s local taste is comfort food made with uncomplicated ingredients and wholesome flavors.

And what better way to get to know the locals than with a local market? When food consultant Yael Mejia spearheaded the farmer’s market initiative in Dubai’s Baker & Spice, her vision was to raise awareness of local agriculture and its impor tance as par t of the global food solution. In doing this, par t of the Baker & Spice experience is the Farmers’ Market On the Terrace project – an event that the restaurant will

host outdoors, and an oppor tunity for both locals and the good people behind Baker & Spice to discover what public growers and fellow organic food makers have to offer – and what could eventually end up on the restaurant’s menu! The operating details of the market are still under works, but it’s without a doubt that we will be able to enjoy this fun-filled morning activity shor tly.

Though Baker & Spice is absolutely brand new in Kuwait – so brand new that we were invited to sample dishes before their launch – ever ything about the place, from the food and beverages on offer, to the seating, to other elements that promise to make the place a quick favorite are all on point.

We were greeted with thirst quenching drinks ser ved in old-fashioned glass milk jars, which enhanced the eater y’s rustic feel. We sampled both their Pomegranate and Pineapple Juices, which appeared to be thick in texture as though frothed, but lacked the syrupy sweet taste of added nectar that such a thickness would allude to. Instead, the juice seemed to be presented in its true form: never tampered with, and refreshing, preparing our taste buds for the yumminess to come.

Next, we indulged in dishes from their deli counter. Displayed beneath a glass casing at the counter, Baker & Spice freshly prepares an exquisite selection of interchangeable dishes daily, and allows you the option to choose up to four portions at a time. We selected the Roasted Eggplant Salad, Beetroot Hummus, Mung Bean Salad featuring beets and leafy greens, and an expertly prepared Muttabal eggplant tomato puree with surprise chickpeas glittering the laden-with-goodness plate. We also opted for a sneaky portion of the Meat Pie from their Daily Special menu.

This is a recurring feature offering a dish that is neither on display nor on their regular menu. The Meat Pie – a more local twist on the traditional Shepherd’s Pie – was the perfect addition to this feast that boasted fresh “farm to fork” flavors.

We were also graced with a sample of the Beetroot Gnocchi, which was just a glimpse of the hearty goodness that Baker & Spice’s fixed menu would have on offer. Though the title suggested indulgence, and the presentation displayed no less, the dish was surprisingly light yet bursting with flavor. Beetroot pockets coupled with an airy pumpkin cream and topped with shaved Parmesan was just what the doctor ordered to hit the spot.

And finally, the Focaccia Blanca. Where do we even begin with this tantalizing teaser? The Italian bread, brushed with a seasoned olive oil, was paired with a delicate medley of cherry tomato and olives, and a side of homemade spice sprinkled local favorite labna. One would not necessarily think of marrying the two, but

the combination was genius, and the focaccia’s discreet roasted cloves of garlic baked within the folds of the bread gave the melt-in-your-mouth flavor a kick.

The restaurant, with its Dubai branch receiving high praises for its amazing breakfasts, suggests eclectic and locally influenced fare that can be enjoyed throughout the day, and an out-of-this-world bakery containing goods made with imported flour.

From sourdough bread, to English muffins, kaak and even bagels, the endless selection of bread

products and freshly baked pastries are enough to excite anybody to pop in for a quick pick-me-up.

Desserts are aplenty as well, with a selection of freshly made cakes on display and homemade ice cream on their menu.

Baker & Spice is located in Souq Sharq, Marina Front. For more information, call them at 2240 7707/9696 2693. Follow their updates on Facebook: bakerandspicekuwait and on Instagram @bakerandspicekw.

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SOUTHERN FRIED HOMICIDE

Fried chicken done right By bazaar staff

Kuwait’s food options might seem endless and are loveable, but sometimes – especially for those of us who’ve spent time living in the good old US of A – we need our Southern comfort food. What better than a meal consisting of homemade fried chicken, mac and cheese, biscuits and mash to fill that void? Buddies Ahmad Al Najadah and Nasser Ayad, both former long-time residents of the Dirty South (Virginia and Florida), along with a dearly departed friend, felt the same way upon their collective return to Kuwait when they discovered a niche in the local market dedicated to everyone’s favorite delicacy: homemade fried chicken. Inspired by their love for comfort food and in honor of their departed friend, Ahmad and Nasser took it upon themselves to fill this strategic gap with the birth of their homegrown concept.

“Fried chicken here is sold by franchises in mass volume, or is usually offered as a dish in an American restaurant. We wanted to do something different by offering a place dedicated to homemade, slow cooked fried chicken—done the way we like it—like we used to eat growing up.” So they researched, explored and pondered, and thus the local delivery-only concept was born, run by two down-to-earth guys with a lot of heart and excellent culinary taste. With an emphasis on home 108

made, everything on Southern Fried Homicide’s menu is made from scratch by Ahmad and Nasser themselves.

By sourcing local ingredients to create what they call “Killer Good Eatin’” (and trust us, it is), the outcome is food filled love and a lot of soul – guaranteed to knock you out after ingestion.

What to expect from their menu, other than sleepiness? It’s simple, yet authentic and indulgent.

Their main attraction is obviously fried chicken, and if you’re looking for another type of protein, walk away because you aren’t going to find it at SFH. They repeat with vehemence that they’re focusing on fried chicken, perfecting it, and feeding it to the masses – “We’re firm believers that small is beautiful – you don’t have to make everything to please everyone. Fried chicken is what we want to be known for.” And known for it they will be, as their chicken is arguably the best many have ever tasted.

Keeping it classic is key with their menu. When ordering, you have the option of bone-in fried chicken combos, or boneless fried chicken in the form of a sandwich- be it regular sized or as a trio of best-selling sliders – their mutual personal favorite item on the menu. The fried chicken is perfection, with an expertly seasoned golden crust encasing a tender piece of premium local chicken. In sandwich form, the pounded out filet is wedged between a pillow-soft potato bun, stained with a faint hint of greasy goodness.

Accompaniments to expect when eating SFH’s fried chicken are classic crumbly biscuits paired with their homemade Autumn Butter, a sweet pairing to

the pastry described by a fellow bazaarite as “butter pretending to be bread”. Another show stopper is their Mac and Cheese— so legit, we have no words— baked with cheesy, buttery, creamy goodness, this is the ultimate side to experience.

The mashed potatoes, contained surprising slivers of skin left in – something any southern mama would be proud of. Pair this creamy, melt-on-the-tongue-upontaste goodnes with their corn-infused gravy – so thick and decadent, it could zap five pounds on anyone’s hips just by looking at it – but the taste is well worth it.

Southern Fried Homicide is truly an original concept that is sure to go places. From its tongue in cheek theme and humor, (as shown in the menu replacing common “Entrees, Family Meals and Extras” with “Misdemeanors, Felonies and Infractions”) to its brilliantly seasoned, perfectly cooked fried chicken – this one is sure to be a hit in Kuwait’s books. Though it remains to be a delivery-only concept, SFH is confident in its prospective expansion as a dine-in joint. But give them time, as they’re doing it all themselves – from the cooking, to the branding, and even the delivery. After all, they’re just two local guys who come home from their day jobs to feed Kuwait with their love of killer fried chicken!

Get your cheat day on with Southern Fried Homicide!

Visit their website at www.sfhkwt.com for their menu and delivery numbers. Follow them on Instagram @sfh.kwt and follow them on Facebook: Southern Fried Homicide.

kitchen aid

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

THE DRESSMAKER

LONDON HAS FALLEN

Synopsis: Based on the best-selling novel by Rosalie Ham, this bittersweet, comedy-drama is set in early 1950s Australia. Tilly Dunnage, a beautiful and talented misfit, after many years working as a dressmaker in exclusive Parisian fashion houses, returns home to the tiny middle-of-nowhere town of Dungatar to right the wrongs of the past. Not only does she reconcile with her ailing, eccentric mother Molly and unexpectedly falls in love with the purehearted Teddy, but armed with her sewing machine and incredible sense of style, she transforms the women of the town and in so doing gets sweet revenge on those who did her wrong.

Synopsis: The sequel to the worldwide smash hit Olympus Has Fallen. The story begins in London, where the British Prime Minister has passed away under mysterious circumstances. His funeral is a must-attend event for leaders of the western world.

However, what starts out as the most protected event on Earth turns into a deadly plot to kill the world's most powerful leaders, devastate every known landmark in the British capital, and unleash a terrifying vision of the future. Only three people have any hope of stopping it: the President of the United States), his formidable Secret Service head, and an English MI-6 agent who rightly trusts no one.

13 HOURS: THE SECRET SOLDIERS OF BENGHAZI

ZOOTOPIA

COLONIA

Synopsis: Zootopia is an upcoming American 3D computer-animated action buddy comedy neonoir adventure. From the largest elephant to the smallest shrew, the city of Zootopia is a mammal metropolis where various animals live and thrive.

When Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) becomes the first rabbit to join the police force, she quickly learns how tough it is to enforce the law. Determined to prove herself, Judy jumps at the opportunity to solve a mysterious case. Unfortunately, that means working with Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), a wily fox who makes her job even harder.

Synopsis: Colonia is a thriller directed by Oscarwinner Florian Gallenberger and stars Emma Watson, Daniel Brühl and Michael Nyqvist. Lena and Daniel, a young couple become entangled in the Chilean military coup of 1973. Daniel is abducted

by Pinochet's secret police and Lena tracks him to a sealed off area in the South of the country, called Colonia Dignidad. The Colonia presents itself as a charitable mission run by lay preacher Paul Schäfer but, in fact, is a place nobody ever escaped from.

Lena decides to join the cult in order to find Daniel.

Based on true events.

Release Date: March 3rd Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama Cast: Kate Winslet/Liam Hemsworth/Hugo Weaving

Release Date: March 3rd Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller Cast: John Krasinski/Pablo Schreiber/James Badge Dale

Synopsis: 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi is based on Mitchell Zuckoff's 2014 book 13 Hours. On Sept. 11, 2012, militants attack the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, killing Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and Sean Smith, an officer for the Foreign Service. Stationed less than one mile away are members (James Badge Dale, John Krasinski, Max Martini) of the Annex Security Team, former soldiers assigned to protect operatives and diplomats in the city. As the assault rages on, the six men engage the combatants in a fierce firefight to save the lives of the remaining Americans.

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Release Date: March 3rd Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller Cast: Gerard Butler/Morgan Freeman/Charlotte Riley

Release Date: March 3rd Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure Cast: Idris Elba/Ginnifer Goodwin/Jason Bateman

RACE

Release Date: March 3rd Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport Cast: Stephan James/Jason Sudeikis/Carice van Houten/Jeremy Irons Synopsis: Race is based on the incredible true story of Jesse Owens, the legendary athletic superstar whose quest to become the greatest track and field athlete in history thrusts him onto the world stage of the 1936 Olympics, where he faces off against Adolf Hitler's vision of Aryan supremacy. Race is an enthralling film about courage, determination, tolerance, and friendship, and an inspiring drama about one man's fight to become an Olympic legend.

Release Date: March 3rd Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama, Romance Cast: Emma Watson/Daniel Bruhl/Michael Nyqvist

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 JOIN ASHA’S ON A GASTRONOMICAL JOURNEY THROUGH THE ROYAL KITCHENS ON INDIA Asha’s, the international chain of restaurants best known for its Indian fusion cuisine, launched the new ‘Live Like a Maharaja’ menu that brings to the table food enjoyed by Indian royalty across dynasties. The menu showcases 16 new dishes that take inspiration from the royal kitchens of India, creating a spread fit for a king. The new menu is both a visual and gastronomic treat that includes unique menu items like the Murg Mussalam, a slowroasted chicken stuffed with egg, dry fruits and served on a bed of saffron-scented basmati rice. In fact, some historians claim that Ibn Battuta described this dish as a favourite in the court of Sultan Muhammad Ibn Tughlaq. Built around the legendary Indian artiste, Asha Bhosle, and her passion for cooking, Asha’s has expanded from one restaurant in Dubai to a series of successful award-winning restaurants across the Middle East and United Kingdom.

Asha’s menu reflects the very best of Indian cuisine and promises a truly memorable dining experience. It combines traditional Northwestern cuisine, Indian home-style cooking and newage fusion selections that give traditional Indian dishes an innovative twist. While many know Asha Bhosle to be a prolific singer - the ‘most recorded artist in music history’ in the Guinness Book of World Records, she is an equally talented cook, with a passion for experimentation.

The restaurant menu also includes some of her signature dishes that have enthralled many Bollywood personalities, who say they experience the same magic in in her cooking as they do in her singing. The ‘Live Like a Maharaja’ menu is available at Asha’s restaurants across the Middle East until May 15, 2016. The menu is all set to take Asha’s innovative excellence in Indian food to the next level.

Find out more about Asha’s on www.ashasrestaurants.com, or @AshasMiddleEast on Instagram and Facebook.

AWARD-WINNING & INNOVATIVE CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE RESTAURANT GROUP LAUNCHES FIRST VENUE IN THE UK International restaurant group, Oliver Maki, has launched its first restaurant in the United Kingdom last February. Opening in London, the restaurant is the latest acquisition for the group, adding to an international portfolio of five established, award-winning venues offering contemporary Japanese cuisine. Centrally located in London’s Soho, the 55 cover restaurant will introduce Londoners to the brand’s award-winning creativity; combining Japanese tradition with global flavors and exciting textures, for contemporary dishes like no other. The passionate kitchen team led by Executive Head Chef Louis Kenji Huang (formerly Head Sushi Chef at Nobu), work to continually evolve the menu with new flavors, ingredients and techniques: pushing the boundaries with dishes that surprise and delight. “You will be able to enjoy many of the same dishes that we serve at Maki Kuwait, but you are in for a few pleasant surprise as well”, comments Mohamad Zeitoun, co-founder and managing partner. Launched in Kuwait in 2004, Oliver Maki is already an award-winning concept in the Middle-East, with four critically acclaimed restaurants in Kuwait and one in Bahrain.

Maki has four locations across Kuwait.

Call them on 2290 1010 or visit www.olivermaki.com for more information.

AL NASSER NEW SHOWROOM OPENED – 4TH RING ROAD Al Nasser has opened its new showroom in the Al Rai area – 4th ring road, next to the Mashatel. The site has commercial shopping complexes and large parking cars on the main street (4th ring). This is an expansion plan for the year 2016. This step has been taken to create a new showroom at this location to meet all of our customer’s needs in the neighboring areas. Al Nasser has opened a new showroom on more than 3000 square meters, including everything you need from family clothing, shoes, sports and school supplies, accessories and many more in one place and under one roof ... Al Nasser: where quality meets with price.

In their new showroom, Al Nasser will display new global brands and diverse assortment for the winter season to satisfy all tastes. The opening ceremony included lots and lots of family fun, competitions and quizzes for children, in addition to many gifts and prizes.

For more information, visit www.nassersport.com.

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NAZ (PERSIAN SOUL FOOD) Enrich your evenings by enjoying Persian hospitality along with the warm and vibrant contemporary décor in any of Naz's 4 outlets - Sharq, Bayan, Zahra & Mahboula, where NAZ chooses to offer exclusive dishes, making it a perfect experience for all. Also, Naz will be opening its new outlet soon in Salmiya. It takes great care and pays meticulous attention to present palatable recipes in the most elegant fashion on both fronts of presentation and taste, triggering the sense of sight, smell and taste all at once. For a wholesome appetizing experience there exists a selection of starters; soups & salads to begin with. One may try their seasoned soup like Ash Joe or increase the appetite further by trying Mast-O Kheyar; Kashk Bademjan or Nargesi. For a healthy start one can also indulge in crunchy salads like Shirazi or Panir Ba Sabzi. The main course offers a wide selection of stews, NAZ grilled (kebabs) selection meat, chicken and sea foods accompanied by side dishes like breads, rice & sandwiches. Leave some room to taste the sweetness of life in the Iranian ice dream – Faloodeh or saffron flavored Bastani. As assured by the chef, this will bring a perfect end to your meal.

For more information and contact details, visit Naz online at www.nazrestaurant.com.

KUWAIT; THE FOOD CAPITAL OF THE WORLD 2030, A VISION PURSUED Food Capital of the World is an initiative launched and supported by a group of diligent Kuwaiti entrepreneurs. With an intent to inaugurate Kuwait as “The Food Capital of the World in 2030”. The idea emerged when the entrepreneurs sensed and witnessed an incredible potential in the field of foodstuff business in Kuwait. Chef Adlah AL-Sharhan stated: “Local foodstuff concepts are brilliant. We would like for the whole world to be able to see and try out these concepts. This is the least we can do to honor the inimitable minds behind the bright foodstuff concepts here in Kuwait. We pledge to utilize our enthusiasm and knowledge to highlight the local foodstuff concepts through attaining Kuwait as 'The Food Capital of the World in 2030.' In his part, restaurateur, Basil Al-Salem, owner of a group of leading restaurants in the GCC and a supporter of the initiative noted: “The key to success is knowing your points of strengths; and that is what we are trying is emphasize. We have enormous capabilities here in Kuwait when it comes to foodstuff businesses. Our goal is to inaugurate Kuwait as the Food Capital of the World, not only because it has the potential of becoming the Food Capital of the World. But, for we also believe that this inauguration will open other positive doors for us. In which it can allocate Kuwait on the touristic map for all gastronomes to come and enjoy one of a kind, exquisite food experience here in Kuwait.” Mohammed Jaffar, The former CEO of Talabat.com and a supporter of the initiative, stated: “Local foodstuff Kuwaiti concepts, are ingenious and original, and that’s what makes them very unique and experience-worthy.

We aim to shed the light on these Kuwaiti concepts and encourage the consultancies and expertise to support the creation and the development of the infrastructure of the Food Capital. In order for tourists to visit Kuwait, experience, rejuvenate, and embolden the Kuwaiti foodstuff concepts.” Rakan Al-Fadalah, The Co-founder of Chocolateness, then concluded: “We are determined through this initiative to invest in the local talents and chefs, to create awareness about culinary schools benefits for investors and the community as a whole. As well as, to motivate the current successful local foodstuff concepts to attain their aspiration. We believe that this initiative is very convenient and will assist us in reaching out to the intended goals and ambitions.”

For more information, visit www.food.capital.

INTRODUCING NEW LABEL.MEN: REDEFINING MALE GROOMING The label.men range reflects the latest trends in hairdressing and barbering, combining modern classics with the latest product innovation to create a variety of contemporary styles, shapes and textures.

The label.men range incorporates exclusive elements complex of unique hair-building botanicals to help soothe the scalp, restore hair vitality and support healthy hair growth. Formulated with the innovative Micronization technology ensuring higher ingredient concentration for maximum penetration, the products are designed to deliver optimum performance and instant results. Developed by the International Artistic Team who road-tested final formulations backstage at the London Collections Men's shows. label.men defines the kind of ‘easy-on the-hair’ attitude, fuelled by high grade ingredients with instant benefits being key, and enhanced with a premium fragrance that tales your style from a Fade to a Pompadour.

Exclusively distributed by beau-tique cosmetics international.

Call 2225 1285 for more info or visit www.beau-tiqueonline.com.

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bazaar Investigates VOLKSWAGEN KUWAIT PRESENTS INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY WITH NEW 2016 PASSAT Behbehani Motors, the sole distributer for Volkswagen cars in Kuwait, unveiled the 2016 Passat, with a striking new design, innovative technology and enhanced value. The 2016 Passat will be available in Kuwait in four configurations - S, SE, SEL and Sport - and features more aggressive styling than its predecessor, with a new hood, front fenders, grille, front and rear bumpers, trunk lid and LED headlights and taillights.

The new exterior offers slimmer headlights, a more substantial four-bar grille, and a muscular, domed hood, with all features blending harmoniously to give the Passat a wider, more planted stance at the front end. Additionally, a new chrome strip on the trunk ensures the rear lights appear lower, enhancing the grounded appearance, while chrome on the window surrounds, bumpers, and door trim compliments the more premium nature of the design upgrade. Inside, the 2016 Passat showcases an extensively upgraded interior, for a more sophisticated look and feel including a new steering wheel and two-tone décor panels, and refined chrome and piano black trim. The Passat features the second-generation in-car infotainment system, also known as MIB II by Volkswagen. The system features touchscreens as standard equipment on all models. On most models, the display utilizes a capacitive touch sensor (similar to smartphone and tablet technology) enabling gesture controls like swiping and pinch-zooming rather than the resistive touchscreens that require pressure and have slightly longer response times. Most infotainment units also feature a proximity sensor, which detects when a hand is nearby and automatically switches its display to allow easier selection of specific features. USB and Bluetooth connectivity are standard on all 2016 Passat models. Featuring the three major smartphone integration platforms—Apple CarPlay, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink, the in-car infotainment system allows seamless integration with the vast majority of smartphones available today. Volkswagen also offers a combination of new safety and driver assistance systems in the 2016 Passat. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, standard on all 2016 Passat models, builds on the premise that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact— which can cause additional collisions. The system helps address this by applying the brakes after a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus helping to reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, reduce the chance of additional damage.

Visit Volkswagen at their Al Rai or Shuwaikh showrooms. Call for information on 1870 870, or visit them online at www.volkswagen.com.kw.

PORSCHE DEBUTS NEW 911 RANGE AND MACAN GTS AT QATAR MOTORSHOW 2016 Led by the Middle Eastern premieres of the latest 911 Turbo S and all-new Macan GTS, Porsche thrilled at the 2016 Qatar Motor Show (QMS) with a total four regional debuts highlighting the brand’s latest advancements in producing benchmark setting models. Building further upon its unrivalled legacy as one of the world’s best-selling sports car, Porsche’s 911 premieres included the new 911 Carrera 4S and 911 Targa 4S as the brand goes into 2016 with a commanding start. The new 911 Turbo S is the top athlete in the 911 range and thanks to new turbo chargers with larger compressors, the 3.8 litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine delivers an output of 580 hp. This makes the Turbo S the first production 911 to accelerate to 100 km/h in less than three seconds, reaching the milestone speed in 2.9 seconds. The model’s top speed is 330 km/h, 12 km/h higher than its predecessor. The same traits of Porsche’s sports car evolution displayed in the Turbo S are extended to the 911 Carrera 4S and 911 Targa 4S which also made their regional debuts at the Qatar Motor Show. The completely new engine generation with bi-turbo charging featured in both models results in an increase of 20 hp across all models, amounting to a total of 420 hp in the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet and 911 Targa 4S. Sure to excite Porsche enthusiasts at the motor show are the refined exterior features of the new 911 models, which enhance the model’s iconic character. They include new headlights with four-point daytime running lights and a redesigned rear lid with vertical louvres, as well as distinctive four-point brake lights at the rear. Meanwhile central to the interior is the updated Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with a multi-touch display, which offers a considerably expanded range of functions and intuitive controls. As the newest addition to Porsche’s SUV range, the Macan GTS promises even more driving fun as the sports car among compact SUVs. With an output of 360 hp, the model features a 3.0 litre V6 bi-turbo engine, Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) and Porsche Traction Management (PTM), with flexible power distribution between front and rear axles. Completing the zero to 100 km/h sprint in 5.0 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package, Porsche’s latest GTS model has a top speed of 256 km/h.

The 2016 Qatar Motor Show will be running until February 1st 2016, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. Visit the Porsche Centre in Al Rai, Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company. Call them on 1870 870 or visit www.porschekuwait.com.

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TOYOTA PRIUS USHERS IN NEW ERA FOR HYBRIDS IN THE MIDDLE EAST Spearheading a new era in hybrid technology across the Middle East, Toyota announces the launch of the much anticipated Prius in the region. By far the world’s most successful hybrid car, the fourth-generation Prius brings ground-breaking environmental performance along with a striking new design, in addition to a fun-to-drive spirit that promises to appeal to eco-conscious customers as well as driving enthusiasts.

According to Mr. Johan Heislitz, Senior Business Director Toyota, “A breakthrough that took more than a century – Pioneer Hybrid , Prius with the powerful Toyota Hybrid System , The Future is Now , embrace the change. The new Prius is power packed with smart and futuristic technology. It is intelligent and will appeal to affluent drivers. Those who want to be unique, those who want to make a statement. Toyota always make Cars that are fun to drive and offer absolute peace of mind Today the spirit of Toyota to make ever better cars will take a big leap forward At Al Sayer we celebrate this spirit of Toyota with value added offers and benefits in addition to best facilities and customer service.” “For eighteen years, Prius has continued to build a legacy of outstanding efficiency and innovation for hybrid technology,” said Kouji Toyoshima, Chief Engineer of the Prius. “It has always been a revolutionary car with a unique DNA. So, I asked myself: What is essential for the next generation? The answer was our development concept of ‘Beautiful Hybrid’. We wanted the Prius to turn into a charming, beautiful hybrid vehicle, while maintaining its essential qualities such as outstanding fuel economy.” Toyoshima added: “Our ‘Beautiful Hybrid’ concept includes Joy of Efficiency to achieve even better fuel economy, Joy of Ownership reflected by the emotional exterior design to the high-quality interior to deliver a powerful presence and the Joy of Driving which exemplifies the Prius’ fun-to-drive spirit.” The first-generation Prius was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. Launched in Japan in 1997, the unique Toyota hybrid established a major industry milestone in vehicle powertrain development and sustainable mobility. The name Prius, ‘to go before’ in Latin, became symbolic of a car that was launched even before environmental awareness had become a mainstream social issue.

Anticipating the 21st century’s need for vehicles with exceptional fuel efficiency, successive generations of Prius have showcased Toyota’s commitment to environmentally conscientious forward thinking, and led the company’s drive towards the creation of the ultimate eco-car.

To find your nearest Toyota showroom, call 1803 803. For more information visit www.toyota.com/kw.

MBMC CELEBRATES KUWAIT NATIONAL DAY WITH A SPECIAL JEEP ROADSHOW As part of the Kuwait National Day Celebrations, Al Mulla & Behbehani Motor Company W.L.L. (MBMC) staged a special Jeep Roadshow at the Marina Crescent, Gulf Road, Salmiya in Kuwait on Friday and Saturday, 12-13 February, with the latest Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk joined by the legendary Wrangler Unlimited and Grand Cherokee Overland on a custom-built obstacle course specially designed to showcase the go-anywhere, do-anything capability of the Jeep range that has seen it become a global icon. Featuring an articulation section, a side step that simulates a vehicle being driven with two wheels at a steep angle on a raised ramp and a monstrous bridge with over 40 degree inclines and a height of 4 metres, the course gave visitors the opportunity to experience, first-hand, the unique off-road systems that only a Jeep can offer. The latest Jeep Cherokee has evolved from more than 7 decades of legendary 4x4 leadership. Building on the successful, original Jeep formula with an all-new frame, exterior and interior design, engine and safety and convenience features, it delivers class-leading capability, interior space, comfort, refinement and power plus state-of-the-art technology. Available in Sport, Longitude, Limited and Trailhawk trim levels, it is equipped with 2.4-litre MultiAir Tigershark engine, paired to an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission, available for the first time in the mid-size SUV segment.

Jeep Wrangler - the world’s most capable and recognized vehicle - offers untouched levels of capability off-road, combined with on-road dynamics, fuel efficiency and interior comfort that make it the perfect vehicle for fun daily driving, weekend trail-running or extreme off-roading. Available in 2- and 4-door models and boasting an untouchable combination of efficient design, open-air freedom, significant towing capability, improved real-world drivability, and unique 4x4 systems that deliver unmatched offroad prowess, Jeep Wrangler maintains its position as the benchmark off-road vehicle and offers consumers the ultimate vehicle for any driving adventure. The latest Jeep Grand Cherokee - the most awarded SUV ever and the vehicle that has long defined what a premium SUV should be - is even more feature-packed, ensuring that it maintains its position as the premium SUV. Available in Laredo, Limited, Overland, Summit and SRT models, the Grand Cherokee delivers unprecedented driving range, choice of leading powertrain options (Pentastar 3.6-litre V6, 5.7-litre HEMI V8 and 6.4-litre HEMI V8), standard eight-speed automatic transmission, legendary benchmark capability, world-class craftsmanship, premium on-road driving dynamics plus a host of advanced user-friendly technology and safety features.

You can find Jeep in Kuwait care of Al Mulla & Behbehani Motor Company at their Al Rai Showroom in Shuwaikh.

Call 1885 500 for more information.

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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 when you least expect it. 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 in a situation much different from your own. At work, all eyes will be on you and you may be approached with a new opportunity. Be open.

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

A getaway may not be all that you hoped for.

Several unexpected delays could put a damper on your 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 an issue later in the month.

Be supportive of a loved one who is going through changes. Being a good listener is key. 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.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 – DEC 21

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 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 loving relationship.

If lately it seems 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.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22

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.

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.

PISCES

FEB 19 – MAR 20 Don’t spread yourself too thin at work this month, Pisces. It’s OK to delegate tasks when the going gets tough. A romantic encounter leaves you confused. Trust your own instincts when you’re looking for the right answer. A Virgo associate surprises you with offensive behavior.

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.

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 let downs. 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.

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IBC JAWAD