I love every season in Cairo. Yes, even summer with its heat and humidity, which does unspeakable things to my hair. I think I especially love October because it’s a perfect blend of seasonal food favorites, holidays, family fun, nature, and cooler temperatures. Moreover, most of us are settled into our busy routines and starting to focus on personal improvements. My recent one was how I could revolutionize my life with a clutch bag. I swapped my capacious, all-consuming handbag recently for a chic, pale pink maxi clutch, and I don’t miss a thing from the 5kg of clutter I was carrying around before and now it’s my statement piece. But what I cannot downsize is my purse. Women’s purses are brimful of secrets: treasured love notes, stolen pictures and lucky totems. What do you carry in your purse? We’ve devoted a large chunk of our October issue to the best and brightest (page 12), a celebration of Egyptian entrepreneurs who have made a difference subtly to our lives: Aly Mazhar, Amina Ghali, Basel Mashhour, Mona Khalil, Nadia Wassef and Sara Aclimandos. In this issue we also take an in-depth look at all of the ideas percolating down the runway, from statement fashion accessories to statement furniture pieces for our homes. We also look at key plants everyone should have in their homes and ideas for Halloween, from cupcakes to costumes. We had a chance to sit down with Helmy El Saeed, who unlike most 24 year olds travelled across Europe on a bicycle and covered 6,541 KM. As usual, as I finished reading this issue, I find myself inspired. We hope this issue compels you and makes you smile with the colorful sheep gracing our covers this month to signify Eid. Wishing you all a very Happy Eid holiday.
editor@cairowestmag.com
CAIRO WEST MAGAZINE IS NOW AVAILABLE ON TABLET, IPHONE & ANDROID - YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE IS NOW JUST A TAP AWAY
Our Team
12
Contents Feature
12
Contemporary Egyptians Who Have Made Difference
32
Heba Mandour
34
Helmy El Saeed CyclingAround Europe
38
Aoun Abui Aoun - Feng Shui
46
Shisha or E-Shisha
42 59 61
Self Defence for Women
48
Which Supplements?
20 Songs that make a statement
50
Folk Wisdom - Nutrition
76
Horoscopes
54
How Many Calories Are You Burning?
56
Homeopathy
24
Wellbeing
Instagram - Hair Stylists
Home & Garden
18
Statement Furniture
41
Plants to Clean & Balance Your Home
41
Chairman Shorouk Abbas Editor-in-Chief Atef Abdelfattah Managing Editor Lydia Schoonderbeek Asst. Managing Editor Hilary Diack Contributing Editor Nahla Samaha Marketing Manager Nehad Ezz El Din Amer Sales & Adv. Manager Mourad Fayez Asst. Marketing Manager Marwa Magdi Imam Contributors Maggie Balbaa, Tatiana Hafez, Christine Kassasseya, Leila Khalil, Ines Hanna & Marcus O’Neill Graphic Designers Ahmed Salah & Manal Abdel Rehim Production Manager M. Shosha Accountant Mohamed Ragab Distribution Hamed Hussein & Mohamed Shaker Mekkawy Printing IPH (International Printing House) Produced by Cairo West Advertising
This magazine is created and owned by Cairo West Advertising. Managing Director: Shorouk Abbas Email: shorouk@cairowestmag.com
For advertising contact: Tel: +2 0122 4300 200 / +2 02 337 76137 Email: advertising@cairoeastmag.com This magazine is not for sale. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is strictly prohibited without prior consent from the publisher.
www.cairoeastmag.com
Contents 18 Fashion 24
Statement Jewelry & Accessories
30
Men’s Fashion
62
Halloween Costumes
Book Review 60
Worth Dying For
66
Horror Movies for Halloween
55
Art Mania
Movie Review
70 72 66 68
66
82 83
Art & Culture Restaurant Review Torii at Cairo Marriott Sachi
Recipes Trick or Treat Cupcakes & Cookies Crave Recipe - Simple Pasta What’s New East Side
Dusit Thani LakeView brings you the
of your Wedding
glamour
Ceremony
Dusit Thani LakeView brings you a glimpse of beauty celebrating love and marriage in the most elegant manner. Delivering unmatched service, step by step, starts from the simplicity of smooth ceremony to the extravagance of a wedding reception, complete with glamour and elegance. The hotel enjoys an ideal location oriented with privacy and flair. Dusit Thani LakeView is strategically located in the Fifth Settlement of the New Cairo district, only twenty minutes away from Cairo International Airport. The blend of Thai and Egyptian culture assures a truly unique hotel experience. The minute you step into the hotel, you will be captured with the impressive interiors, eye-catching greenery embraced with unique Thai touch. One of the many interesting features of Dusit Thani LakeView is the Grand Ballroom with its magnificent 1536 square meters with such beautiful outdoor scenery and its pre-function terrace to deliver an unmatched catering service par excellence. Distinctive setting for the bride and groom to exchange vows surrounded in the warmth of Thai artistry presence. Another nine fully-equipped smaller ballrooms are supported by a professional staff to compliment the banqueting facilities of the hotel. We invite you to reserve this lovely venue for a memorable ballroom wedding ceremony. Memorable weddings are not only well arranged technically, but are distinctive and personal. Wedding Event planners are here to create moments that will last a lifetime. We know that you've always dreamed about having a beautiful wedding. Let Dusit Thani LakeView make your dream come true and your wedding planning a joy. Dusit Thani LakeView is excited about every element - from the way the tables are set, to the moment you enter the room as bride and groom. Creativity is our fundamental source. Inspired wedding planners and organizers reassure every step of the way. Offering an insight into the latest fashion and decoration themes for weddings to be able to get in touch with your dream wedding and bring it to life. Dusit Thani LakeView alluring “Packages� starting from 33,333 EGP that cater various styles, sizes and occasions, all including hotel accommodation and much more tempting surprises just to make your wedding experience such a matchless one. For further enquiries E-mail: cairo@dusit.com
NOW OPEN AT CAIRO FESTIVAL CITY
ALREADY OPEN AT CITYSTARS 02 24802938
T h e S t o r y S o Fa r . .
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
Making a Diverse and dynamic, the common defining factor that makes these members of our community stand out in their quest for excellence in their chosen fields is the passion that inspires them. Cairo East Magazine salutes each and every one for their achievements, commitment and inspiration to the community.
the joy maker The Giftery Founder & CEO The Girl Behind the Gifts: I studied Economics and Art at The American University in Cairo, and then completed a master’s degree in Applied Imagination at Central St. Martins, London. During my stay in London, I conducted intensive research for my masters on breaking the boundaries of e-commerce in Egypt, and it inspired me to create an online gift registry, a platform that consolidates gifts from lots of different stores and enables customers to select gifts for their loved ones. The idea gained momentum when I faced personal challenges in sending gifts for friends and family from London to Egypt, so when I returned I decided to put this dream into an action and partnered with Karim Atalla, a friend with experience and a successful business background.
they pick their preferred gifts online or directly from stores and upload them on the website. This concept evolved to where TheGiftery.com now provides gifts for all occasions and offers services like phone ordering, personal shopping, gift consultation services, wrapping, same-day delivery, and gift customization. In order to gain our customers’ trust
“Always give yourself enough time to learn from your mistakes.”
TheGiftery.com: TheGiftery.com enables customers to create any type of Gift Lists such as a wedding registry, a baby shower registry, a birthday registry…. from more than 100 different stores, where
we deal with prominent, reputable shops such as Table Royale, Fauchon, Karizma, Hope Flowers, Villeroy & Boch, Alex Toys and more. TheGiftery.com ensures quality without charging the customer a premium, where all prices online match the prices in the stores. Tough Challenges: E-commerce has not really caught on in Egypt mainly because people fear fraud, not knowing that most fraud cases happen offline and not online. People also
*Interviews have been arranged alphabetically
12
13
worry about receiving knock-offs and fake products and that is why we work with well-known stores that have a physical presence. Lessons learned: One should manage his expectations, because some issues take longer to accomplish than they seem. The January 2011 revolution came two weeks after our soft launch, so you have to learn to take what you have and work with it. It’s good to test and re-test and not go into full-blown marketing as soon as you start. Always give yourself enough time to learn from your mistakes... things in real life are always different than on paper. Listening to customer feedback is also key; as most of the services we now offer were driven out of a need. And last but not least, nothing grows without a great team behind it, we are lucky to have an amazing group of people who are the backbone of TheGiftery.com
Difference In a nutshell: I need two lifetimes to learn about jewelry, not only one. Early years: Ever since my childhood, I wanted to become a designer but I didn’t have enough time to learn and master the craft while attending school. I studied contemporary jewelry for five years in a university in England, followed by a year in Italy. This experience was rewarding as it gave me knowledge about the techniques of design, and time to become proficient. I joined Azza Fahmy in 2005, where I set out to design unique pieces with subtle heritage and cultural references. It is worth mentioning that I started from the bottom at Azza Fahmy, working my way up until 2008, when I launched my first collection, becoming an established designer. Staying on top of the game: One of most challenging aspects of jewelry design is to be able to satisfy the diverse tastes and styles of the customers. To enhance our creative work and become competitive in this market extensive research is required. I conduct research in the national and international market, to ensure competitiveness with all benchmark products. I have to keep abreast of emerging global trends, and be upto-date with the latest technological tools. This research is fundamental for understanding and satisfying different tastes.
I do not know what the future holds, but I am sure it will allow me to grow and develop my skills. On a personal level, I am obsessed with contemporary jewelry as it is creating its own unique heritage. Concepts added to the business: When my mother, Azza Fahmy, originally started her journey more than three decades ago, she had a dream to make it possible for women from all around the world to wear unique handmade designed jewelry with an ethnic background that represents our country. She travelled overseas and explored many countries, seeking
to be inspired by their own culture and creative roots. This dream later was passed down to become mine. I travelled to Iran recently to launch mixed contemporary culture designs. I think the coming collection will be exceptional and distinctive. 2014 Collection: I am currently working on my 2014 collection and I am super excited about two matters; first I have been working hard for over a year, and second I am changing the theme and brand of the new collection to suit various tastes. I am looking forward to receive the feedback of both our dedicated and new clients.
Doing it differently: I believe that I am in the right place in the exact time, so I have no regrets!
Designer Amina Ghali with sister Managing Director Fatma Ghali and Chief Designer Azza Fahmy
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
for years but couldn’t make it alone, until I met a group of other founders who shared the same vision of rescuing animals from violent treatment and improving animal welfare. ESMA operates a shelter and adoption centre for various pets, including cats and dogs. The centre provides food, shelter and medical care to hundreds of animals, in addition to arranging adoption of animals to caring families who would provide the right loving
Mona Khalil, The Animal Rights Advocate, Co-Founder of The Egyptian Society for Mercy to Animals (ESMA)
The story behind ESMA:
environment. Challenges along the way:
One of the challenges I faced in this journey is the mentality pervading some sectors of the community. I faced difficulties trying to highlight the importance of considering an animal’s feelings and needs, as well having mercy on them, and yet some people did not accept my message. Those people were raised differently, I Creating ESMA: assume. We hope we After four years of immense effort, The can change people’s Egyptian Society for Mercy to Animals mind-set, especially (ESMA) was finally established in 2007. I the young ones, by had been striving to establish this NGO increasing public
15
We are blessed with a tremendous collective effort by the founders, workers and supportive helpers who exert ongoing efforts to enlighten and inform the community, which in turn will inspire younger generations to initiate other small organizations with similar aims. We work on emergencies, blind, deaf, and dying animals, but I can’t say it is a job or a duty as much as it is a way of life. Despite what the animals go through, harsh treatment, poverty and abuse, all animals possess an inherent tolerance, acceptance, and loyalty. Actually, some animals are more humane than humans… these are two lessons I have learned.
ESMA operates two no-kill shelters and adoption centres and is also involved whenever possible in ongoing campaigns, initiatives, and advocacy activities to promote animal welfare issues in Egypt.
14
Staying on top of the game:
Lesson learned:
In a nutshell:
After losing my beloved cat due to illness I began to wonder how street animals manage to survive such poor and abusive conditions, while I couldn’t save my own cat. Inspired by my grandfather, who was fond of animals, I decided to start a mission to save as many animal souls as possible. Unfortunately many animals in Egypt are homeless, ill, handicapped, hungry and abused. These conditions also cover the many that are slaughtered for food. This situation became so prevalent that most Egyptians started to find it acceptable to mistreat animals or have no mercy upon them. This drove me to start an intensive campaign to shed light on the importance of having mercy on animals, and providing them with basic needs including shelter, proper food, and adequate treatment.
awareness in public and private schools. Furthermore, we believe a strict law that defends animal right should be implemented to mirror those in place in other countries.
The taste maker Basel Mashhour, Founder of TBS - The Bakery Shop In a nutshell: I have always believed that being an entrepreneur would give me the opportunity to start a business that fulfilled my passion, and that’s how it started. Accolades: TBS is one of the top 15 fastest growing Endeavour entrepreneurs in terms of revenue. The TBS Story: In 2008, my two childhood friends, Tarek El Nazer, Sameh El Sadat and I decided to start our own business. Sharing the same enthusiasm and philosophy, we created The Bakery Shop, where TBS is also an acronym taken from our first names. The local bakery shop sells freshly baked bread and distinctive pastries made with top quality ingredients. In addition to mouth-watering croissants, Danish and donuts, customers can also create their own sandwiches using a variety of ingredients teamed with our famous baguettes. Overcoming challenges:
best management strategies. In addition, we aim to become more competitive in the market and remain consistent in our branding, pricing and quality to maintain our position. Only regrets: I wish I could enjoy the ambiance of our boutique-style TBS instead of getting bogged down with paper work on a daily basis. I am not merely a businessman; I am also a sociable person who loves to interact with people … but it is not really a regret! In the pipeline: TBS will launch a new hot product in October, and we are leaving our loyal customers to guess what it will be. We consider this a big undertaking and a new step forward. This brand new product will target a lower-income market segment and will be available more on shelves than TBS. We plan to distribute it through major supermarkets across Egypt.
To start a business in a market that we knew nothing about was like taking a flying leap into the unknown. To meet the challenge we had to conduct research on the local market in order to build a strong business module for the bakery. We pushed boundaries and started to search for high quality equipment, top secret ingredients, and all of the other factors needed for this business to succeed. We decided to hire the famous Chef Yasser who had been working at one of the top hotels. Without Chef Yasser we wouldn’t have attained this tremendous success. Staying on top of the game: We continuously improve our business to meet our customers’ taste, and to meet international standards by adopting the latest innovative technologies and the
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
The Action Star Aly Mazhar, Founder & Head Coach of BeFit In a nutshell: Our aim is to transform our client’s lives through helping them develop a healthy lifestyle. Early years: I was a professional athlete and a former football player for more than a decade. I received a full athletic scholarship to Rutgers University in the United States, where I earned a bachelor degree in finance and was trained by proficient athletes who significantly altered my life beliefs and perceptions. My experience in the US was rewarding on many levels including my career, health, and lifestyle. However I couldn’t continue as a football player after an accident that left me injured for several months, so I decided to make use of my experience and education by launching BeFit in 2013.
box-fit, powerball, pilatone, fit fusion, and step-burn. These programs are designed to cover all aspects of physical activity, specifically for strength, speed, power, and endurance. We are also planning to launch the trampoline class for jumping fitness. Staying on top of the game: Frankly I haven’t needed to do much promotion throughout the past year; our success is the
Creating BeFit: Since the health and fitness business sector was booming in Egypt, I found the opportunity to share my knowledge and expertise in this field while doing something I really love. Located in the Tennis Center of Kattameya Heights, BeFit is a health and fitness company that offers premium group exercise fitness classes, customized personal training programs, nutrition plans and online advice via Facebook and Twitter accounts. The business started with 6 classes of circuit fit and thankfully it blossomed to reach 35 classes a week. In a year, we faced a radical upsurge in numbers, where we currently have 300 dedicated members with us… I never expected to achieve so much so quickly. Doing it differently: The BeFit Transformation Challenge is a fitness program designed to help athletes reach their ultimate potential and strength in six weeks. In addition, we have other classes including foundations of fitness, ripped freak,
16
17
outcome of many years of hard work in the field of fitness and training. I believe that word-of-mouth has also played a fundamental role in raising awareness of BeFit amongst people in diverse sectors and age groups. BeFit training and fitness programs can
transform people’s lives drastically. I am concentrating on maintaining and enhancing the quality of our services, so I am not considering any expansion plans for the time being.
In a Nutshell: After thirteen years of Diwan, I turned forty this year and realised that a third of my life has been spent working hard at something I love very much. I am lucky. Accolades: Recently selected by Forbes Magazine as one of the 200 most influential women in the Middle East. Early years: I got my first Master of Arts Degree from AUC in English and Comparative Literature; then after working in women’s groups in Egypt I went to the School of Oriental and African Studies in the University of London and got a second Master of Arts Degree in Social Anthropology in 2000. Creating Diwan: On March 8, 2002 the first Diwan in Zamalek opened its doors, a collaboration between my sister Hind, Nihal Schawky, and myself. We had all been at a cross roads in our lives and wanted to do something true to our passions. Because that is where it all begins. We were all interested in culture in one form or another and we realised that there was nowhere to go to enjoy a cup of coffee with books, music and inspiration. Hence the idea of Diwan. We had seen café/ bookstores in other countries, but what we wanted was something that had the same mixed product ranges but with a very strong East/West orientation in its products, decor, and ambiance. Challenges along the way: When we began, our challenges were multi-faceted. There was no blue print for what we wanted to do. It wasn’t easy to find staff because we needed a special mix of people who could work in a bookstore and understand the quality of experience that we were trying to give our customers. None of us had a financial or management background so running a business
was not something that ever came naturally. We worked extremely hard for many years. Looking back though, these have probably been the best years of our lives! We have laughed, fought, struggled, and through this we created something beautiful! Staying on top of the game: Diwan is always trying to innovate and offer better service. As individuals, I think one of the things that keep us going is the belief that we can always be better and do better. We are looking to spread the message and mission of Diwan to other countries in the Arab World. We celebrate culture— Eastern and Western— and we encourage its production and consumption. We believe in the value of reading and belonging to a community of readers. And we have just launched Diwan’s new e-book app and hope to explore this new forum along with our customers.
* Picture by: Dany Eid Photography
Words of advice: Start with your passion. Work harder than you have ever worked before. It is really okay to make mistakes and you have to come to terms with them, learn from them, and just move on and enjoy every minute of it! Don’t let success get to your head, it is so important to remember that we can always do better and that humility is always more attractive than arrogance. Doing it differently: There are so many things that I could have done differently, the list would be endless! However, I try not to look back and I regret nothing. Everything that has happened is for a reason and it is our job to see it as positively as possible. That is how we move forward and allow ourselves to experience the wonderful things life has to offer.
For more information visit: azzafahmy.com, befiteg.com, esmaegypt.org, diwanegypt.com, thegiftery.com, tbsfresh.com, CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE HOME AND GARDEN
- designers guild
DAY CHAIR - Bokja
18
19
HUMMINGBIRD IVORY CARPET- The Rug Company
Alma Light Drop Pendant - The Conran Shop
COHABITATION LOUNGE - Alchemy
Owl side table turquoise - Dwell CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE HOME AND GARDEN
Natuzzi
Barcelona Chair - Conran Shop
ZEBRA PRINTED LEATHER RUG - Zara Home DECORATIVE ANIMAL FIGURE - Zara Home
20
21
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE HOME AND GARDEN
Tarzani volover light - Enlighten
TABLE - rococo
SOFA - Roche Bobois
DAY CHAIR - designers guild
22
23
BIRDCAGE Bagua BEDROOM - Mrina Home
El-Semary
ARMCHAIR Bagua
Commode Zebra - Art De Bois CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FASHION
Le Noeud
STATEMENT PIECES By Lydia Schoonderbeek
24
24 25
What we want in October
Necklace - EMMA WARE
Ring - boucheron
Earrings - SARAH ABAZA Necklace - Style treasure
Necklace - STRADIVARIUS
Prorsum Bag - BURBERRY
Watch - Ralph Lauren CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FASHION
Earrings - azza fahmy
Crystal Pendant Necklace - Mango
Clutch - bottega veneta
Earrings - kATE MOSS Bracelet - frillu
26
27
Necklace - stradivarius
Earrings - dima JEWELRY Sunglasses - dior
Necklace Watch - karl lagerfeld
Sandals - gianvito rossi
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FASHION
Butterfly Ring - van cleef & arpels Necklace - zara
Earrings - dima jewelry
Hair Comb - VICKI SARGE
Coin Bracelet - mango
Bag - gucci
28
For where to buy visit: azzafahmy.com - boucheron.com - bottegaveneta.com - dimajewellery.com - dior.com - emmaware.co.uk - frillu.myshopify.com - gianvitorossi.com - gucci.com - karl.com - lenoeud.com - mango.com ralphlauren.com - row.burberry.com - sarahabaza.com - stradivarius.com - style-treasure.com - vancleefarpels.com - vickisarge.com - Zara.com
29
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FASHION
Men’s
DIRECTORY
The statement pieces to create the right look.
02 01
01 Black leather jacket - Zara 02 Dark grey leather bag Hogan 03 Blue & white checked shirt - Hugo Boss Orange
03
04 Lace up shoes - Salvatore Ferragamo 05 Dark blue watch - Casio G-shock 06 Dark grey denim jeans - 7 For All Mankind
04
05
06 30
31
01
01 Masterpiece tradition cinq watch - Maurice Lacroix 02 Brown leather jacket Armani Jeans 03 Brown leather belt American Eagle 04 Midnight blue shoes Clarks 05 Striped cotton T-shirt - H&M 06 Blue 501 jeans - Levi’s 07 Brown leather document holder Massimo Dutti
02
03
04
05 06
07
For where to buy visit: 7forallmankind.com - ae.com - armani.com - casio-watches.com - clarks.com - ferragamo.com global.levi.com - hm.com - hogan.com - hugoboss.com - massimodutti.com - mauricelacroix.com- zara.com CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
HAVE YOU SEEN HER?
Heba Mandour Brings Couture to the Streets of Zamalek
32
33
Photographer: Wed Khashoggi Makeup: Alaa El Tonsy Hair Dresser: Rafy Fashion Designer: Ahmad Abdalla Dream Creator: Ghada Aboud
How did this photo-shoot come about, it was very daring? I received a call from Ghada Abood telling me that her friend, Wed Khashoggi a brilliant photographer, wanted to do a photo shoot of me. I saw her work and told her that I had a certain idea in mind and as it turned out, it was exactly what Wed was thinking of. She wanted me in a big fluffy dress in an old building. I told her I want to do the photo shoot in the street instead. She loved the idea. Wed made me feel so comfortable. She is like a director who encourages the actor to perform at his best. Alaa El Tonsi is the brilliant make-up artist who got everything right for each look. Rafi did a wonderful job with
my hair. Ahmed Abdalla is an amazing costume designer. The whole team worked amazingly together and there was a lot of positive energy during the shoot. How did you feel walking the streets of Cairo in that beautiful skirt? It was liberating! I was doing something that people might see as crazy or stupid … and I really didn’t care! The only thing that worried me was when I gave the photographer the idea we were a bit scared of being harassed. But since it was in Zamalek I felt a bit more comfortable! And I really enjoyed it tremendously… I loved the whole photo shoot!
What were people’s comments in the streets? They were shocked, and didn’t utter a word at the beginning. Then they started shouting and asking, “Is this a movie, what are you doing?” First calling their friends to come and watch, since this area has lots of shops, cafés and restaurants ... then they started taking pics with their mobile cameras. What are your future plans? Waiting for a good role, whether it’s a TV series or a movie. And I will start learning pole dancing and kite surfing next month.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
Map of exact route cycled
Southernmost point in europe
By Leila Khalil
Camping with permision on someone’s lawn
Avignon, France
34
35
When most people decide to take a trip to Europe, they usually opt to hop on a plane, jump into a car, or maybe take a train. But what about using a bicycle? There are probably only a handful of people who would even think to cycle cross-country, and Helmy Saeed is amongst this handful. He recently took it upon himself to make the remarkable journey of cycling across Europe. Starting at one of Europe’s northernmost parts in snowy Norway, he traversed the continent all the way down to sunny Spain on a bicycle he had assembled himself. Spanning over 62 cities and covering a total of 6,541 kilometers, this journey took a total of 70 days to complete – 60 spent cycling and 10 spent resting. When it came to board and lodging, Helmy had no problem working in return for a place to stay.
But what was it that inspired him to embark on this adventure? The answer lies in his philosophy, which he applies to every aspect of his life: using himself to do anything he wants. Helmy explained that whether it is to transport himself, create his own tools, or work for board, using his own resources and skills to accomplish his goals and ideas is the best way to go. It allows you to form your own opinions based on what you are able to do. “I love traveling and using myself, so the two worked well together,” says Helmy. Cycling is not the only sport Helmy partakes in. Having moved to Canada after spending three years studying economics at the American University in Cairo, he took up skiing. Knowing Helmy however, it was not ordinary slope skiing, but rather the more arduous crosscountry skiing. Slope skiing depends on gravity, which is, as you know, way too easy. Cross-country skiing on the other hand, is based solely on body power and physical endurance which sounded much more appealing to Helmy as it fits with his life approach. Once he got the hang of skiing, Helmy decided it was time to put his newly found skills to use. In 2012, he joined an international ski team whose members included skiers from Norway and Scotland. Together they headed towards the Finnmark Plateau in the Arctic regions of Norway to ski 130 kilometers through harsh winds and freezing minus 40-degree weather. “Most people would be uncomfortable with this,” says Helmy, “we would camp every day in the snow and endured a very harsh environment.” But in the end it was worth it for Helmy, who pushed his limit and expanded his horizons. For many people, enduring such a trip would be more than enough for one life-time; however, upon finishing his cross-country ski expedition, Helmy immediately began thinking of his next challenge. “After the summer of 2013 came I thought of what I could do next,” recalls the adventurer, “so I decided to take up cycling”. He started watching Youtube videos in order to learn how to assemble bicycles (because cycling cross country is nothing if you do not build your own bicycle), to keep with his mind-set of doing everything himself. Upon completion, Helmy set off to Italy to begin his 800Km cycling expedition which took him across the northern half of the beautiful country.
Finnmark plateau, Arctic Norway
Small village in the Pyrenees, French-Spanish border
Arctic snowstorm in Norway For more information visit: www.cairowestmag.com/onlinemagazine
French vineyards CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
Swedish wilderness Accomplishing this feat encouraged him to take his cycling a step further, and cross Europe on his bicycle. Once again Helmy pushed his limits and got one step closer to the impossible, something most people only dream of doing. By putting thoughts into actions, Helmy has been able to prove to the entire world that anything is possible if you have the passion and willpower to push yourself. Now being mentally strong is one thing, but being physically able to endure such extreme environments and situations is another! Helmy’s exercise regimen is comprised of running, cycling and being outdoors. He tries to walk everywhere he can or take the subway so that he uses his full potential – that means no driving! Cycling across Europe was bound to raise a lot of attention. “As I gathered more distance, there were more surprised faces,” Helmy recalls of the people he met along his journey. Some of these surprised faces turned into friends whom Helmy is still in touch with. One of them is even visiting Egypt very soon on a scuba diving trip. Due to the nature of his trips, the young adventurer picked up a lot of fans along the way. But how did his family feel about his trips? “My family was a bit hesitant at first ,” says Helmy of his family’s reaction after he told them he would be going to the Arctic to ski 130km while pulling a 30 kg sled in the freezing cold with no way to contact them for an entire week. Once the initial shock wore off, Helmy says, “they became very supportive and proud when they saw the scope of what I was accomplishing and fully understood what I was doing.”
36
37
Helmy’s journey was not just a physical one, it was a rather spiritual one as well. Helmy recounts a special spiritual experience he felt when he encountered the world’s oldest 9,550 year-old tree. “To be in the presence of a living organism that old, which is still living to this day is an incredible feeling,” he explains. Arriving to Tarifa was another high point, because it signified the official completion of his journey. “I get rushes from extreme environments” Helmy explained, so getting stuck in snow and rain storms was a major high for him as well. As for the lows, going to sleep hungry at times after “a mega work out” while doing his 130 km skiing trip, and his arrival at the final destination of Tarifa, Spain (the southernmost point of the country), which brought mixed emotions were a few of them. However the main low Helmy encountered was the mental struggle. “Situations that create anxiety that put me in a bad, non-productive mood for the whole day…makes it an absolute struggle to complete my daily cycling goal,” he says, “but in the end it is these situations that count because you push your limits and realize that you can do much more than you thought.” Egypt should really admire Helmy for the strength and self-endurance he possesses. From building his own bicycle that he used on his trip, to filming and editing all of his footage, to simply living a life based on being self-sufficient, Helmy is truly an inspiration to today’s youth as well as the older community members who feel they may have already lived the best years of their lives. He has shown that anything truly is possible if you put your mind to it, and that one’s own self is the best tool in life.
Medieval architecture in Troyes, France
Highest waterfall in Sweden
Near Belgian-French border
Nordkapp, Norway
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
Flowing with Nature
Aoun Abi Aoun discusses Feng Shui By Hilary Diack
Creating a harmonious home and work environment requires care, and as we discovered, an understanding of the energies around us. Cairo East Magazine went to certified Feng Shui consultant and trainer Aoun Abi Aoun to learn more about this ancient art. CEM: In a nutshell, what is Feng Shui? AA: Feng Shui is the art of living based on the conscious relationship between the human being and his environment. Every orientation, color, material, form, and source of light has an impact on our life and state of being. Feng Shui is the art of transforming our living spaces into a healthy and beneficial environment by orchestrating the elements of nature and allowing the complementarity between Yin and Yang and the fluid circulation of “QI,” the cosmic breath. It all starts with our vision and by changing our vision we can change the world. The purpose of Feng Shui is to provide a better quality of life. How did you become interested In Feng Shui? Since childhood I have spent most of my time in a natural environment, enjoying the Lebanese mountains, rivers, caves and early morning sunlight. This opened my consciousness to the dimension of energies and allowed me to discover the beauty, the order and harmony in everything. It also made me think
38
39
how great it would be to bring this feeling and this relation with the ‘whole’ back to my house.
How easy is it for someone to apply simple remedies in their home and work environments?
Feng Shui came as a natural path to me; the word itself always triggered my interest. It led me to follow the series of courses organized in different countries by the Academy of the International Federation of the Feng Shui of the Present Time – Switzerland. When I experienced its impact, I decided to continue and became a consultant and trainer. I was recently appointed Middle East representative.
It is actually very easy. There are many simple actions that we can implement at home to benefit from direct and effective change. All that is needed is to be open to the space and listen to what is needed in an intuitive way. It is a whole study that is very personalized based on the conscious relationship between people and their living spaces.
From personal experience and case studies how effective is Feng Shui? Feng Shui is really at the service of mankind. The impact of the surrounding environment on our health and psychology is obvious whether positive or negative. On a personal level, I only developed my passion to become a professional when I observed its direct and effective impact on both myself and the people close to me that applied it. When Feng Shui started 5000 years ago in China, one of the main objectives was for doctors to be able to heal not only the physical body, but also the house of the patient to facilitate a healthy life and to prevent illness in the long term. In our time, even business associations are applying it for benefits such as an increase in productivity, fluid communication, synergy, and clear vision.
What are your top tips for anyone wanting to create a better energy in their living or work space? The first step is aim to achieve beauty, harmony and order in everything. -Recognize the place by positioning yourself in a state of observation without judgment and with lots of love. You will be amazed how a space can reveal itself to show you its positive and negative aspects. Identify the difficult factors and the feeling will lead you to take the right actions through inspiration. -Identify and eliminate anything that blocks the circulation. -Make sure that nothing disturbs your senses; everything should be fulfilling (the quality of light, sounds, aromas … the feeling of your couch). -Flowers are very positive for the home and can change the whole atmosphere of a space.
-Plants are essential to purify a place and make it more alive. It is our relation to the plant kingdom. -Keep what you like and eliminate all that is unnecessary. -Find the complementarity in everything, the light and shadow, the contrast of colors, the material, the forms. -Identify the function of each space and check through your feelings if the needed energy exists or not. I recommend reading the book The 5 keys of Feng Shui to give you a clear idea about the energies needed for each space in relation to the five elements. In brief the harmony of a place is obtained by allowing the energies in relation to the five elements to exist (Fire, Air/Metal, Water, Earth
and Ether/Wood), and to express them positively to create a unifying environment in harmony with the earth and the universe. How can following Feng Shui principles positively affect your lifestyle? The multiple benefits of Feng Shui are peace, serenity, psychological health, stability, abundance, improved time management, increased productivity, fluid communication, clear vision, and higher consciousness through the activation of the senses. In fact each element in relation to an archetype provides specific qualities to the concerned space and the house in general: Fire/Eagle: clear vision, leadership, and the facility to engage in actions and projects.
Air-Metal/Lion: Protection, the capacity to grasp opportunities, planning and organizing. Water/Dolphin: Purification, it is the source of life, expression of the identity, communication, sharing, creativity, and joy. Earth/Bull: Force of life, family spirit, abundance, stability, and good sense. Ether-Wood/Winged dragon: Inspiration, conceptualization, spirituality and serenity. Weft/Winged snake: It is the quintessence of everything in relation earth-universe, energy of kundalini, transcendence. It is expressed when harmony is in place.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
How can Feng Shui benefit society as a whole? Feng Shui is useful on different levels, especially on the collective one. For example it can be used for: -Public gardens: to bring the energies of nature into the cities and allow people to find balance, serenity and joy in a fulfilling environment that connects them with essence of life and the quality of the moment. -Medical centers and healthcare: to create a healing environment and bring more caring, serene, and efficient hospital settings for patients, medical corporations, administrative and technical staff. -Tourism: a new way to relate to what has always been there. Feng Shui tourism is a world- wide network aiming to create the desire for a new way of discovery based on local strengths, culture and identity and a human attraction to universal values. -Business associations: to promote the expression of corporate identity and company development through the organization of its sectors of activity. It increases productivity, creativity, time management, and interpersonal relationships. -Real Estate: to introduce a lifestyle that becomes a standard of quality to achieve excellence in how to design a place, sell or inhabit it. -Wedding: The identification of the common element of the couple is a great support in creating the theme of the wedding day, including the location, the colors, the type of food, the decoration, etc. Above all it allows the couple to choose the best date and time for the ceremony which will mark their married life and nourish them on different levels.
40
Does the study of astrology help in learning about Feng Shui? We are continuously bathing in cosmic energies and the telluric energies (energies emitted from the core of the planet through the different kingdoms). During a Feng Shui study, the consultant identifies the influences of the telluric energies on the person (at the time, location and date of birth) and on the location of the house in order to find the right actions that bring harmony between both and allow those energies to become beneficial. The study of the tellurologic theme of a person is a great gift that brings light to many aspects of life. It clarifies the strength and obstacles of our karma and provides applicable solutions to overcome specific challenges. A second stage, upon request, is when a Telluro-Astrologue can give an additional reading which allows the consultant to provide Feng Shui solutions related to specific cases. It is a great tool for parents to understand their children and give them the right, needed support to actualize themselves.
At the Feng Shui Academy of the International Federation of the Present Time, it is possible to learn both sciences. Do you hold regular courses in Cairo, and what is covered? The Feng Shui Academy, with the coordination of Nun Center, is now open for all interested people (architects, designers, artists, therapists, Feng Shui lovers, and anyone who is searching for a better quality life) to join a series of courses scheduled throughout the year. Our first level ran in September and allowed each participant to understand and apply the Feng Shui tools at home. The second level, scheduled for the first weekend of November 2014, is for those who wish to discover their Tellurologic theme, master the Feng Shui application and learn how to apply it for their offices and gardens. The remaining seminars are for those who wish to become consultants.
For more information: Nun Center, 4 Shafik Mansour, Zamalek. Tel: 02 27354658, we@nuncenter.com www.fengshuiofthepresenttime.com
41
House Plants to De-Stress Your Home
1
By Lydia Schoonderbeek House plants are the ultimate in functional decorating. Some well-placed greenery can not only brighten a space but also purify the air, and they’re also helpful in creating a more relaxing, restful ambiance in any room. We all know that spending time in nature is linked to reduced stress levels and relieves tension. That’s why we’ve rounded up five beautiful houseplants that are easy to take care of and effective at increasing oxygen and clearing out toxins for cleaner breathing air. So try adding one to your bedroom or office space for a little dose of Zen. 1. English Ivy
3. Snake Plant
NASA scientists listed the English Ivy as the number one best air-filtering houseplant, as it is the most effective plant when it comes to absorbing formaldehyde. It’s also incredibly easy to grow and adaptable -- try it as a hanging plant or a floor plant. It grows in moderate temperatures and medium sunlight.
Snake plants don’t need much light or water to survive, so they’re an easy choice for any corner of your home. The plant absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen during the night (while most plants do during the day), so add one to your bedroom for a clean-air boost.
2. Rubber Tree
4. Spider Plant
Rubber trees are good for cleaning the air and are one of the easiest plants to grow, as they thrive even in dim lighting and cooler climates. This low-maintenance plant is a powerful toxin eliminator and air purifier.
One of the most common houseplants, the Spider plants, is decorative and easy to grow. Spider plants are effective at fighting pollutants including benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and xylene.
3
5. Golden Pothos
5
Try adding it to your kitchen or living room as a hanging plant, as the leaves will grow down in cascading vines. They grow easily in cool temperatures with low levels of sunlight.
2
4
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
Simple Self-Defense Moves for Women By Lydia Schoonderbeek
Street crime is on the rise with more muggings than ever taking place all over Cairo. Simply following some basic personal safety measures can reduce the chances of being attacked, or give you the upper hand should you be subjected to an attack.
42
43
WALK CONFIDENTLY
AIM FOR THE NOSE
AIM FOR THE THROAT
The first rule when it comes to safety on the street is to walk confidently. The truth is that most attackers will look for someone who is easily frightened and appears to be an easy target. Get into the habit of walking positively with your head tall, rather than walking with slumped shoulders and looking at the floor.
If your attacker grabs you from behind, another tactic is to throw your head back as far as possible and try to head butt your attacker’s nose. You should try to jerk your head back and aim for the bridge of his nose. The theory is that your attacker releases you in order to grab hold of his painful nose, providing you with vital seconds to run away.
Self-defense experts also recommend poking your finger into your attacker’s windpipe - the part of the air passage found below the Adam’s apple. Try to press your finger - rather than your thumb - into the space between the Adam’s apple and the top of the breastbone as hard as possible. Pressing your finger into this part of the body is easier to do. This has the effect of closing the air passage making it difficult for your attacker to breathe. The idea is that he will clasp his throat in order to breathe again, allowing you the chance to escape.
SCRAPE YOUR HEEL DOWN THE SIDE OF HIS SHIN If you are approached from behind, one of the most effective ways to shock your attacker is to run your heel down the front of his shin (which is the prominent bone found in the lower part of the leg). This is a fine bone and even if your attacker is well built, this bone tends to stick out. Most footwear is capable of causing pain and damage, but heels are even better. You can also aim for the knee as its vulnerable from every angle, and a well-aimed kick can inflict substantial damage.
Also using the heel of your palm, drive your hand upwards against the bottom of the attacker’s nose. If he is behind you, use your elbow, throwing your weight into it. GO FOR THE EYE If your attacker is heading towards you, grab his ear with your fingers and press your thumb firmly along the whole of his eye. Use a pushing action, press your thumb back into his skull. Holding your attacker’s ear means your thumb will automatically drop down to his eye level. Apart from being more painful than simply poking his eye. With any luck, your attacker will jerk backwards in an attempt to protect his eyes, giving you precious time to run.
KEEP YOUR KEYS HANDY When you are walking in the street at night, get into the habit of carrying your keys in one hand and making a fist with one of your keys pushed between your middle fingers. If you are attacked, make an upward movement towards your attackers face and slash his cheek with your key. This movement could start at the mouth and finish at the ear - or the other way round if it’s easier. Even if you don’t cut his face, your attacker’s natural reaction will be to bend down and cover his cheek to soothe the pain.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
Where you can find Magazine 45 COMPOUNDS
Downtown Mall 66
Kattameya Heights Gharb el Golf
Uptown Cairo
Arabella Country Club Lakeview Swan Lake Mirage Residence
COMERCIAL OUTLETS The District
& MORE..
106 Mall
29 RESTAURANTS & CAFES
13
27
HOTELS JW Marriott Hotel Dusit Thani Hotel
SCHOOLS & UNIVERSITIES
The Snug Hotel Kempinski Raddison Blu Fairmont Heliopolis Rotana Hotels and Resorts Steigenberger Hotels
10
Meeting Point
Americana Plaza
First Mall
& MORE..
BANKS
13 MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS
Reaching more than 5,0000 readers each month TO ADVERTISE IN CAIRO WEST MAGAZINE For 6th of October & Cairo-Alex Desert Rd Email: advertising@cairowestmag.com
0122 4300100
w w w.c ai rowes t m a g. co m
TO ADVERTISE IN CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE For Kattameya & New Cairo Email: advertising@cairoeastmag.com
0122 4300200
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
Vs A Smoking Hot Subject
By Hilary Diack
Investigating E-Shisha So, you kicked the cigarette habit ages ago. Well done. Shisha is a little more difficult to give up, there is something rather comforting about gentling drawing on the little plastic pipe with the familiar gurgle of water and aromatic smoke. But, health warnings still abound. That’s why you need to get serious about either dropping the habit or checking out the options. The new trend for electronic shisha pens, also known as electronic shisha sticks is making inroads with smokers in global centers around the world. Although associated traditionally with Middle Eastern and North African cultures shishas had recently become increasingly popular among young people today, until concerns were voiced about their safety and hygiene. Enter the e-shisha. One main reason for their growing popularity is that they offer a similar experience to smoking traditional shisha with reputedly fewer health risks than smoking traditional shisha. How do they work, and are they really a safe alternative to smoking traditional shisha?
46
47
How do they work? An e-shisha pen is a battery-operated device similar to an electronic cigarette with an atomizer that heats up an e-liquid, turning it into a vapor that can be inhaled. The main ingredients of most e-liquids are water, fruit flavoring (mainly herbs), vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol. Both propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin are nontoxic organic compounds, however long term studies have not yet been conducted to uncover the risks involved in inhaling those substances. How do they compare health-wise to traditional shisha? It is important to note that with traditional shisha the amount of smoke produced in one session is far greater than any cigarette gives, with 600 puffs being typical for a one hour shisha session. This would be the equivalent of smoking two packets of cigarettes in one sitting. Most electronic shisha pens do not contain toxic compounds, such as carbon monoxide, heavy metals (arsenic and lead) and other cancercausing chemicals found in traditional
shisha. However, some devices do contain varying degrees of nicotine depending on the brand. With the toxic compounds contained in traditional shisha, smokers are at risk of major diseases, such as cancers, heart disease, and respiratory diseases. Electronic shisha pens do not produce smoke, so there is no risk of passive inhaling, and your risk of acquiring a smoking-related disease is decreased. To puff or not to puff? While the jury is still out as to long term effects, if you cannot bite the bullet and give up smoking completely e-shisha may be a way of weaning yourself off a more dangerous smoking habit. They are readily available in the local market but you should be careful about the quality you are purchasing. Many e-shishas are imported from China and may have a quality control issue. Much of the reasoning behind the safety benefit of vaporized nicotine lies with the purity of the nicotine itself. If other chemicals or additives find their way into the liquid nicotine cartridge, the risks could be even greater than that of tobacco cigarettes.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
Cairo East Magazine Gives you the Rundown By Hilary Diack Eating right? Getting plenty of exercise? This should be enough to keep you feeling healthy, but when you factor in stress, pollution, missed meals and hectic schedules you may benefit from adding a few vital supplements to your diet. Many products now available have been used by different cultures for years, so their properties have been well-proven. Naturally sourced and nutrient specific, a tablet or two a day can get your system into great working order in no time. Here are just of few of the most popular items you can find.
48
49
Aloe Vera Gels
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice
Raw Manuka Honey
Aloe Vera contains a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the ability of Aloe to support the healing process. In addition, Aloe Vera has been shown to support a healthy digestive system.
Studies have shown that DGL stimulates and accelerates the natural protective factors in the digestive tract, which helps relieve stomach discomfort immediately.
Raw Manuka Honey is sourced from the remote pristine areas of New Zealand’s South Island. Manuka Honey provides live enzymes, antioxidants and phytochemical components.
Amino Acid Supplement L-Arginine and L-Citrulline are two amino acids bundled into a single powerful supplement. L-Arginine is an important factor in muscle metabolism and a precursor for nitric oxide, which promotes increased circulation by relaxing blood vessels. L-Citrulline helps the body rid itself of ammonia, a by-product of exercise. This clearing enables the body to recover after a workout.
Beet powder Beet powder provides a wide range of nutrients, but its most significant phytochemical is betaine. This plant chemical benefits both the liver and kidneys. Betaine also helps the liver process fat. This prevents the accumulation of fatty tissues in the liver (steatosis) and it also prevents excessive triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in the blood.
Biotin Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for normal growth and body function and is a key regulatory element in gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and in the metabolism of some amino acids. Alongside its role in energy production, Biotin enhances the synthesis of certain proteins. In addition, Biotin promotes normal immunity and plays a critical role in skin health.
Chlorella Chlorella is a green single-celled microalgae that contains the highest concentrations of chlorophyll known. Chlorella also supplies high levels of Beta-Carotene, Mixed Carotenoids, Vitamin C, Iron and Protein.
Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics combines ancient Japanese fermentation artistry with modern technology. The probiotics are encapsulated with their culture medium of nutritious fermented vegetables, fruits, mushrooms, and seaweed. This blend supplies a complete probiotic system including prebiotics, enzymes, micro-nutrients, and organic acids for a healthy digestive pH.
Fo-Ti is a wonderful supplement that has many different uses. It can lower cholesterol and blood pressure and works to nourish the liver and kidneys, creating a better blood flow to the scalp and providing more nourishment to the head, thus creating healthier hair. Glutamine Glutamine has recently been the focus of much scientific interest. A growing body of evidence suggests that during certain stressful times, the body may require more Glutamine than it can produce. Under these circumstances Glutamine may be considered a “conditionally essential” amino acid. Glutamine is involved in maintaining a positive nitrogen balance (an anabolic state) and also aids rapidly growing cells (immune system lymphocytes and intestinal cell enterocytes).
Perfect Food Super Green Formula Made with vegetable, sprout and organic cereal grass ingredients, Perfect Food provides your body the nutritional benefits of multiple servings of fruit and vegetables every day. Perfect Food Super Green Formula supplement contains 10 probiotic strains to support digestive health, and spirulina to support healthy immune function.
Reishi An old Chinese mushroom dating back to 2500 years ago, known as the “King of herbs.” It has a wide range of medicinal properties aiding in diabetes, hypertension, cancer, wounds, cholesterol, depression, and for detoxing.
Spirulina Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae which is full of life-giving nutrients such as protein, beta carotene, chlorophyll, vitamin B complex, minerals, essential fatty acids and other important nutrients that our body needs. Spirulina is a 100% alkaline food which helps regulate the acid-alkaline (PH) of the body.
Solgar’s Magnesium Citrate
offers a high potency source of the essential mineral magnesium in its highly absorbable citrate form.
Zinc Zinc is essential for growth, immune system function, testosterone metabolism, as a cofactor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase, and for many other functions in the body. Zinc is involved in the functioning of over 200 enzymes and plays a key role in genetic expression, cell division, and growth. Clinical studies demonstrate zinc supplementation can increase general wellness, and that it has a beneficial impact on connective tissue as well as reproductive health and eye health.
www.facebook.com/groups/hani.pharmacy - www.facebook.com/pages/Puritan-healthy CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
The More Things Change, the More They Stay the Same Weight loss advice from the turn of the last century By Marcus O’Neill, MSc RD “The safest way to control weight and conserve health is by a balanced and carefully planned diet. ‘Freak’ methods of reducing are often dangerous and usually ineffective.”
know the latest miracle weight loss solution (I’m looking at you, Dr. Oz). Don’t kid yourself, the people endorsing these products stand to make millions if their new gimmick is successful.
Sounds like pretty reasonable advice, right?
Governments and other regulatory agencies need to take a stand against all this “quackery” and tighten the rules surrounding what people are allowed to claim about their so-called health products. But until that happens, my advice is to be very skeptical of any product claiming to be the “ultimate weight loss cure”. Keep in mind that the truth today is virtually identical to what it was almost a century ago. A healthy diet includes a variety of fresh, whole ingredients, and includes an emphasis on things like fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. If you want to lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. The formula is pretty simple and people claiming you need the latest superfood or supplement to lose weight or improve your health are really just the modern versions of snake oil salesmen.
What’s interesting about this quote is that it comes from a medical textbook called, Your Weight and How to Control It, published in 1929. That’s right, it was written over 85 years ago! And here are another couple of gems from the same book: “An intensive study of medical frauds and fads made over a period of nearly twenty years has convinced me that in the whole realm of quackery there is no field that is more easily worked nor one that offers greater financial returns to the medical swindler than that devoted to the exploitation of ‘cures’ for obesity.” And, “Virtually all so-called obesity cures, except those products containing dangerous drugs, are simply shrewd schemes for fooling the overweight, and the purchasers of most of them are being kidded by experts.” So, if this stuff was known more than 85 years ago, why is there still confusion about healthy eating and the best way to lose weight? Much the same as it was all those years ago, the short answer is money. There is an incredible amount of money to be made in the weight loss industry. A 2013 report by Marketdata Enterprises Inc. estimated that the American weight loss industry alone is worth 60.5 billion dollars a year. This includes things like diet food products, health club memberships, diet websites/apps, diet books, and exercise DVDs. And for people to create a market for their new products, they need to make some pretty bold claims, regardless of whether those claims have any validity. Celebrity endorsements don’t help either. It’s bad enough that you have movie stars or television personalities pushing their personal diets as the cure to all of society’s weight problems, but then you add to that plenty of seemingly qualified medical professionals claiming to
50
51
I’ll end by providing one last quote from this truly visionary book: “The movement to prevent unwise and fanatical reduction in body weight must be considered as an activity of preventive medicine worthy of the consideration of every intelligent man or woman”. I couldn’t have said it better myself. References Fishbein, M (Ed.). (1929). Your weight and how to control it: A scientific guide by medical specialists and dietitians. New Your, NY: P. F. Collier & Son Company. Marcus O’Neill is a Registered Dietitian from Canada, currently residing in Maadi. He can be reached by email at marcusoneill79@ yahoo.com, or you can follow him via Twitter (@marcusoneillrd), or his website (www.dietitianabroad.com).
FirstMallCairo
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
How to burn700 calories an hour By Lydia Schoonderbeek
Exercising regularly but struggling to lose weight? We all know that the key to staying fit and healthy is at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity. However the truth is that if you want to lose weight at the same time, you need to try harder. A new breed of workouts promises to change that, by combining fat burning along side muscle-
52
53
toning from resistance work classes provide a longer lasting calorie burn. From CrossFit to Boxing they require you to dig deeper into your reserves than ever before. Here is a guide to how many calories high intensity workouts equate to.
700 Calo
ries
600 Calo
ries
500 Calo
ries
Insanity workout (high-intensity DVD)
Boxing
Body Pump weights class
700 calories
600 calories (45 min)
500 calories
Psycle (high-intensity spinning)
Spinning
Kick boxing
700 calories (45 min)
600 calories (45 min)
500 calories (45 min)
Climbercise
Mountain biking
Tennis
700 calories
600 calories
480 calories
Climbercise
Mountain biking
Zumba
700 calories
600 calories
500 calories
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
400 Calo
ries
ries
200 Calo
ries
Vinyasa fast yoga
Gentle jogging
Pilates
400 calories
300 calories
195 calories
Weightlifting (with heavy weights)
Leisurely swimming
Walking
300 calories
200 calories
385 calories
Kayaking
Leisurely cycling
Croquet
360 calories
300 calories
170 calories
Horse riding
Hiking
Golf (with a cart)
360 calories
280 calories
200 calories
Reference: Sunday Times Magazine
54
300 Calo
55
Hitting the Right Notes at Art Mania By Hilary Diack
Cairo East Magazine already knows that there are many talented children in the area looking for a chance to develop their musical skills, so we were delighted to have a chance to chat with husband and wife team Ossama El Shibini and Gehan El Shahawi about their well- equipped music center, Art Mania. CEM: Gehan, when did you start Art Mania? What was the inspiration behind it? GS: We started Art Mania a year ago. We are a group of partners with a passion for music, and we believe that music affects individuals positively in many different ways, and accordingly everyone deserves to learn it. So we decided to create a hub where people can enjoy learning and practicing music. Where is Art Mania located? We have a very accessible location, handy for most residents of the area, at 30 Al Fayrouz District, Gamal Abdel Nasser Street, in front of Gate 18 of Mall of Arabia.
capabilities in music is a common practice, talent is discovered and catered to at an early age; a matter which is reflected on the overall music standards in a country. What age groups (including adults) do you cater to? We cater to all ages starting from 6 years old (we also have a couple of especially talented children who started a year earlier). Although we have a large percentage of students below 14 years, we still have many adults starting to learn. It is amazing to see how quickly adults can progress, once they get the courage to take the first step. What events have you been involved with? We regularly participate in events in the 6 October/Sheikh Zayed area such as school events, Sodic Elfit Festival, and Palm Hills Christmas Day. We were also one of the sponsors of the 6th Cairo Jazz Festival and some of our students were given to chance to perform there.
Do many of your pupils go on to enter the field of music on a professional level? Some of the students come to learn to be players in a band; others come to fulfil a passion. In many cases, people who started out coming just for fun end up being attracted to the idea of playing on stage. How important do you think it is for children to be introduced to music at an early age? It is very important for children to learn music at an early age. Music will increase their creativity, their sense of achievement and then later the ability to work as part of a team when they play in a band. In communities where challenging the children
For more information visit: facebook.com/ArtManiaCenter CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
Homeopathy Right from an Expert Cairo East Magazine met with leading Cairo homeopath Dina Sid Ahmed to get some answers. By Maggie Balbaa
56
57
In recent years, Egyptians have become more aware of holistic healing. When we say holistic healing, we immediately think “Homeopathy”. But what is it exactly? And how does it work? CEM: What is Homeopathy? And what are the principles behind it? DSA: Homeopathy is a holistic form of medicine developed by Samuel Hahnemann over 250 years ago. It is based on the law of “like cures like“. This concept means that a substance which can cause symptoms, whether physical, emotional or mental, to appear in a healthy human being can restore to health an individual showing similar symptoms. For example: If you peel an onion you may produce tears and your nose may run. When these symptoms are present in the common cold or hay fever, Allium Cepa (the homeopathic remedy made from onion) may be prescribed. Hahnemann named the practice homeopathy from the Greek homoios (the same) and pathos (suffering). When a bee stings you, you feel a burning pain and the tissues surrounding the area swell up. Some relief is gained from applying cold to the area. If you had swollen tonsils with burning and stinging pain relieved by cold, a homeopathic remedy prepared from the same source Apis Mellifica could cure. Homeopathy is a holistic form of medicine which means that it does not treat individual symptoms or a named diagnosis but rather a complete picture of the whole individual, physical, mental, and emotional, and prescribes according to the constitution of the person… and this is called the constitutional remedy of a person.
Although there is much skepticism about homeopathy due to the incredibly diluted remedies that are used, its success with patients has meant that it has continued to grow and develop over the past 200 years. Where did you become a certified homeopath? And how long did it take to study it? I first developed an interest in homeopathy when I became a mother and was searching for gentle ways of dealing with everyday childhood illnesses. Intrigued by the results I attended the first ever “homeopathic professional training”
becoming a professional homeopath I regularly attend other training courses with leading homeopaths from the USA, UK and India. One of the most memorable courses involved an extraordinary trip I made to the Himalayas in 2009 to deepen my understanding of the Sankaran sensation method. I then complemented my work with other tools such as Australian Bush Flowers, Enneagram personality analysis and Reiki energy healing. What is the difference between medical treatment and homeopathic treatment? Medical treatment usually will not associate the emotional with the physical symptoms of the person, while homeopathy treats the person as a whole rather than just the condition. So in consultation the homeopath asks questions about mental, emotional and physical characteristics, previous medical history and family history as well as the presenting symptoms, in order to obtain a complete picture of you as an individual. Can it be used concurrently with normal medications as prescribed by a doctor?
offered, here, in Cairo from 19982000, and acquired my diploma from London College of Homeopathy. Then I received another professional diploma from Lakeland College of Homeopathy in 2003. Since
Yes, definitely. But some medical treatments masque completely the effect of homeopathy like cortisone and anti histamine, so you do not know if the homeopathic remedy is working or not, and so it becomes useless. Anti-depressants, for example, suppress depression symptoms, which renders a homeopathy remedy useless because of the suppressed symptoms. I would recommend that you should always tell the homeopath if you are on any kind of medication.
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE WELLBEING
What are the remedies made of? The homeopathic medicines, or remedies, are made out of plants, minerals and other natural substances. These are highly diluted during a process called potentization. During this process the remedy is shaken, in order to trigger the reaction within the remedy, which makes it potent. The more a remedy is diluted and shaken, the more potent or powerful it becomes. What does homeopathy treat? Homeopathy can treat migraine, flu, constipation, morning sickness, allergy, skin condition, IBS, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression and many other acute and chronic symptoms. It can help children with ADHD, teething, ear infections, measles, warts, colic, bedwetting, night terrors, recurrent coughs and colds, eating problems, croup and other ailments. Homeopathy has also been known to help alongside conventional medicine and can alleviate the side effects of some drugs. Are there any contra-indications? Homeopathy is safe and non-toxic and so even kids, pregnant women and babies can use it. Sometimes there is a reaction after taking the remedy, which often takes the form of a discharge, diarrhea or return of an old symptom. This is because
58
59
“Although there is much skepticism about homeopathy due to the incredibly diluted remedies that are used, its success with patients has meant that it has continued to grow and develop over the past 200 years.”
sign and means that the remedy has triggered a healing process, and is dealing with conditions that were previously suppressed and not dealt with previously. What is the first aid kit of homeopathy that is a must-have in every home? There is the homeopathy first aid kit that is sold with the remedies in low potency and it can be used with children and grown ups. The kits usually come with a little booklet that gives instructions for each case. My list would include Arnica for example. It is essential for any bruising and for post-operative cases, it works wonders in relieving pain. Aconite can work for sudden on-sets of conditions: cold, shock, fever… anything. There is also calendula; it is a disinfectant and antibacterial element that helps heal wounds. It can be also found as a cream. Chamomile is great too for calming babies especially during teething. It works like magic.
Dina Sid Ahmed, the body has been stimulated into throwing out toxic material. So you may experience a temporary release of emotional symptoms. This is a good
Holistic Health Consultant, Int. Cert of Homeopathy (UK), Member of Lakeland College Of Homeopathy (UK)
For places to purchase a starter homeopathy kit visit: ainsworths.com, nuncenter.com, facebook.com/homeopathy/homeremedies, helios.co.uk If you have any questions, or need a consult? Email Dina on: dsidahmed@yahoo.com.
Songs
That make a statement Royals Lorde
Dazed and Confused Led Zeppelin
God Only Knows the Beach Boys
Tears in Heaven Eric Clapton
Lost in Music Sister Sledge
At Last Etta James
Cat Power The Greatest
Under The Bridge Red Hot Chili Peppers
Your Song Elton John
50 Ways to Leave your Lover Paul Simon
We Found Love Rihanna ft Calvin Harris
Something The Beatles
Telegraph Road Dire Straits
Try a Little Tenderness Otis Redding
The Way You Look Tonight Frank Sinatra
Stan Eminem
About Today The National
Back to Black Amy Winehouse
Creep Radiohead
Everywhere Fleetwood Mac
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE BOOK REVIEW
Worth Dying For Reviewed by Ines Hanna A lone tough guy hitchhiking through a dying town in the middle of nowhere, Nebraska, pokes a hornet’s nest and then when the hornets set out to kill him, proceeds to ruthlessly annihilate them one by one. In doing so, he rescues the broken, resigned inhabitants of the town from the evil men who oppress them. Readers seeking realism in their novels may not like Lee Child’s novel Worth Dying For, but as the saying goes, “We’re not here on business, baby, we’re here for fun.” Judging by his massive and deliriously loyal following around the world, Child’s novels deliver lots and lots of fun. His villains are astoundingly evil, and the hero of all his novels, former US Army Military Police operative Jack Reacher, is able and willing to treat them with the ruthless violence they deserve. In this case, the villains are the Duncan family, consisting of four
60
61
brothers who run a criminal empire from the tiny unnamed town in flat, rural Nebraska, which they rule with an iron fist. That alone would not have kept Reacher from passing through, but first, there was a battered wife whose husband needed to be taught “how it feels,” then Reacher found out about the mysterious disappearance, decades ago, of an eight year-old girl. Because that’s what he does, Reacher sets out to discover what happened to her, in the process uncovering the hideous evil that is eating the heart of this small, anonymous town. Bubbling just beneath the surface of Child’s writing is a sly and clever humor that saves the reader from either being infected by the bleak, empty landscape Child sketches so skillfully, or from feeling guilty for enjoying the cold and brutal way our hero liquidates the bad guys. The writing is spare but very effective, the pace is relentless and
compelling, and the characters have the fascination of archetypes, giving this and the other Reacher novels an almost mythical feel. Reacher is almost familiar: he’s the guy we have all, at our lowest times, wished we could be. He is the solo avenger: a man of few words, kind and gentle to the weak, merciless with bullies, fiendishly clever and skilled and physically powerful, and occasionally very funny, in an understated way. As is often noted by the lowlifes whom he will later destroy, he dresses “like a bum”; he is not held down by possessions or tied to any place. He has no cell-phone, no credit cards, no attachments; he goes where fate leads him, and it’s always to where trouble is. But those who underestimate him live to regret it. Thanks to the fact that Lee Child is a very good writer, it’s all very cathartic and fun.
Follow Mr. Northwood, who tends to the tresses of It Brits like Alexa Chung and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
It’s gorgeous, glossy, and incredibly big. Now you can follow the man who’s been making it all along.
@georgenorthwood
@luigimurenu
Mr. Lecompte owns one of Los Angeles’s best salons, which is also home to many of the notable stylists on this list. @andylecompte
Jen is arguably the most prominent hair stylist on Instagram, and it’s really no wonder why: She just gets pretty hair. @jenatkinhair
Who to follow on Instagram!
Best Tressed: The Most Inspiring Hair Stylists By Lydia Schoonderbeek Ogling our Instagram feed fourteen times a day has become part of our daily lifestyle. It’s like a visual world we’ve gotten into but can’t quite figure out how to get out of yet. Aside from the essential selfies photos, there are plenty of aweinspiring images to catch your fancy and keep you occupied…and well, obsessed! So, if you’re not one for boring hair, we give you some fantastic accounts to follow that will blow your mind and keep you inspired this month!
Mr. Moodie is also in the legends category, with loads of backstage, campaign, and editorial work to his name. @neilmoodie
It’s no secret that Hollywood’s coolest leading ladies (Kristen Stewart, Anne Hathaway, and more) trust Mr. Abergel for a fresh, forward take on red carpet hair.
The fact that one of the world’s most iconic hair stylists is on Instagram is truly one of the joys of social media. @sergenormant
@hairbyadir Jenny is another stylist who inherently understands the art of gorgeous hair. Her work on Amanda Seyfried and countless others is always worth a look. @jennychohair
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FASHION
Door-to-door
Trick or Treating By Tatiana Hafez
Until recently, Halloween had never been a big occasion in Egypt. And if you have been attending Halloween parties they were most probably adult ones, where people were looking for an excuse to dress up and celebrate. Now, Halloween has become a much anticipated celebration for the little ones too. With many schools and residential compounds throwing their own “trick or treat� parties, children have the date marked down in their calendars. Excitement and a lot of expectations can leave parents pulling their hair out in the quest for the perfect costume.
62
63
in Style
Not all Halloweeners in Egypt dress up in scary, spooky costumes, especially the younger ones, who still prefer more carnival themes like fairies, pirates, princesses and superheroes. Bearing the upcoming Halloween festivities in mind, Cairo East Magazine went shopping around for ideas and places where you are sure to find something to please even the most demanding children.
Open heart surgeon - Lil & Kim
PUMPKIN - Fairytale
Where to find your perfect costume: Bal Masque www.balmasquecostumes.com Facebook: BalMasqueCostumes Fairytale (tailor made costume) Phone: 01111278670 – 01003703069 (Radwa Salah) Facebook: fairytale1980 Hut of Toys 20 Rd. 263, Maadi, Cairo Phone: 01222184063 01002196569 Jumbo
Dead Man Rock Star - Lil & Kim
161, 26th July Street, Zamalek Phone: 02 27375205 Lil & Kim www.lilandkim.com PIRATE - Fairytale Witch wig from Style Treasure Kids
Phone: 01027072708 Facebook: LilandKim Neverland 12, Ezzat Salama, Abbas Elakad, Nasr City Phone: 01066037915 8, Badr Towels, besides Carrefour Maadi City Center, Maadi Phone: 01026006975 —02 23103860 Facebook: Neverlandcostume Style Treasure Kids www.style-treasure.com
ZORRO - Fairytale
ISIS - Fairytale
Black terror robe from - Style Treasure Kids
Yashry – Online shopping www.yashry.com
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE MOVIE REVIEW
MOVIES A Nightmare on Elm Street Death stalks the dreams of several young adults to claim its revenge on the killing of Freddy Kruger. Chased and chastised by this finger-bladed demon, it is the awakening of old memories and the denials of a past of retribution that spurns this hellish vision of a dreamlike state and turns death into a nightmare reality.
Child’s Play A single mother gives her son a beloved doll for his birthday, only to discover that it is possessed with the soul of a serial killer.
The Grudge Karen Davis is an American nurse who moves to Tokyo and encounters a supernatural spirit who is vengeful and often possesses its victims. A series of horrifying and mysterious deaths start to occur, with the spirit passing its curse onto each victim. Halloween A ten year old boy called Michael Myers brutally kills his step father, his elder sister and her boyfriend. Sixteen years later, he escapes from the mental institution and makes his way back to his hometown intent on a murderous rampage pursued by Dr Sam Loomis who is Michael’s doctor and the only one who knows Michael’s true evil. The Ring Rachel Keller is a journalist investigating a videotape that may have killed four teenagers (including her niece). There is an urban legend about this tape: the viewer will die seven days after watching it. If the legend is correct, Rachel will have to run against time to save her son’s and her own life.
64
65
The Conjuring In 1971, Carolyn and Roger Perron move their family into a dilapidated Rhode Island farm house and soon strange things start happening around it with escalating nightmarish terror. In desperation, Carolyn contacts the noted paranormal investigators, Ed and Lorraine Warren, to examine the house. What the Warrens discover is a whole area steeped in a satanic haunting that is now targeting the Perron family wherever they go. To stop this evil, the Warrens will have to call upon all their skills and spiritual strength to defeat this spectral menace at its source that threatens to destroy everyone involved.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE RECIPES
Keep Little Ghouls & Ghosts Happy with these Halloween Treats By Hilary Diack
Easy Cupcakes Ingredients Makes 16 cupcakes 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
Bake for 15 to 17 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Frost when cool.
1 cup milk 2 tablespoons red food coloring 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Easy Frosting
2 teaspoons baking powder
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
120 gr unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons butter, softened
120 gr cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 cups powdered sugar
Method
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
1 cup milk
In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer. With the mixer on low speed, add the powdered sugar a cup at a time until smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract. This can also be done by hand with a wooden spoon, but it will take longer!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two 12 cup muffin pans or line with 20 paper baking cups.
• For chocolate cupcakes add 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Method Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a muffin pan with paper or foil liners. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition, then stir in the vanilla. Add the flour mixture alternately with the milk; beat well. Fill the muffin cups 3/4 full.
66
67
Red Velvet Cupcakes Ingredients Makes 20 cupcakes 1/2 cup butter 1 1/2 cups white sugar 2 eggs
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring and vanilla. Stir in the baking soda and vinegar. Combine the flour, cocoa powder and salt; stir into the batter just until blended. Spoon the batter into the prepared cups, dividing evenly. Bake in the preheated oven until the tops spring back when lightly pressed, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in the pan set over a wire rack. When cool, arrange the cupcakes on a serving platter and frost with desired frosting.
Image by Tingles
Cookie Frosting
Note:
Method
Ingredients
Food colorings and sprinkles are available from most large supermarkets. Let your kids create their own monsters, witches and spooky creatures with small candies, marshmallows and liquorice.
Mix self-rising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt thoroughly in a bowl; beat at least 5 minutes. Refrigerate dough at least 2 hours to overnight.
Makes 3 cups 4 cups confectioners’ sugar 1/2 cup butter 5 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Simple Cookies
food coloring
Makes 4 dozen cookies
Method
Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the confectioners’ sugar and shortening until smooth. Gradually mix in the milk and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth and stiff, about 5 minutes. Color with food coloring if desired.
3 cups self-rising flour 1 cup butter at room temperature 1 cup white sugar, or more to taste
Preheat oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C). Roll dough out on a floured work surface using a lightly floured rolling pin; cut cookies out with cutters. Place cookies onto baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven until cookie bottoms are lightly golden brown, about 15 minutes.
2 eggs at room temperature 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE RECIPES
Simply Italian
Recipe courtesy of Crave
Pesto Spaghetti (serves 2) Ingredients
Method
For the pasta • ½ pack spaghetti
• In a blender/food processor, blitz all pesto ingredients together till a crumbly green paste is formed.
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Add oil and salt to a pot of water and bring to boil, and then add spaghetti.
• 3 tbsp parmesan cheese for garnish
For the pesto • 2 cloves garlic • 1 cup basil leaves, picked & washed • ¼ cup parmesan cheese • ¼ cup pine nuts • ¼ cup olive oil • Salt & Pepper to taste
FB : Facebook.com/craveegypt Instagram : @craveegypt Twitter : @CraveEgypt
68
69
• Drain spaghetti when it’s close to al dente and set aside, reserving one ladle of pasta water for sauce. (The starch in the water keeps the spaghetti fresh & prevents it from becoming too dry after draining it) • Add 4 tablespoons of the pesto paste in a pot along with the pasta water, and cook spaghetti for approximately 5-10, till the desired tenderness in taste is achieved. • Serve immediately and garnish with parmesan cheese shavings & a basil leaf or a few toasted pine nuts. • To store the pesto: Place in a clean jar and cover top layer with olive oil, to prevent air from coming in and letting it spoil.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE RESTAURANT REVIEW
Bring on
The Sushi Torii at the Cairo Marriott By Hilary Diack
Cynics may muse that we have a proliferation of sushi restaurants springing up everywhere, but, we ask ourselves, isn’t that because we love them so much? Torii is an example of why Japanese cuisine gets our vote so often. Located right next to the well-known Bakery in the Cairo Marriott hotel in Zamalek, Torii is compact, casual, but undeniably authentic. It didn’t take much urging to get us there for a mid-week dinner. It’s not just about a great selection of sushi combos; you can indulge in teppanyaki, tempura, and a host of other favorites. Fusion sushi items are also there to cater for anyone who prefers the recent fad for throwing some more western ingredients into the mix. But purists will not be offended, they should be more than happy with the freshly made traditional sushi and sashimi delicacies on offer. Regularly frequented by members of the Japanese community as well as other local residents and hotel guests, Torii ensures that dishes available meet the highest standards in ingredients and preparation. We were feeling decidedly peckish, so launched straight into the miso soup, veganfriendly you may note, and full of nutrition. Tastes great as well! This kept us occupied while our starter was being freshly prepared, and what a delight it was. A beautiful platter of quick-seared tuna and quick-seared scallops on a bed of fresh lettuce, served with a ginger, garlic and sweet vinegar sauce. The succulent scallops and tuna were wonderfully fresh, and the dressing gave just the right kick. Next on order was a platter of mixed tempura; squid, prawns and a variety of vegetables. The batter was light and crispy, and the accompanying tempura dip was, well, interesting. A side dish of deep-fried prawns wrapped in konafa, with a spicy orange, black caviar and soy sauce hit the spot perfectly. Not wanting to miss out on our sushi, we shared a huge plate of our favorites, mixing it up a bit with Euro- Japanese fusion and traditional items. The California Roll with its avocado, crabstick, prawn tempura, cucumber and red caviar was beautifully presented, and the prawn Ebi Nigiri sushi was definitely substantial, at least three bites worth. Our choice from the Euro-Japanese fusion section was the New Alaska Roll, a diet-blitzing combination of cream cheese, avocado and smoked salmon topped with a crabstick and prawn salad. Room for dessert? You bet! It was just a simple scoop of ice cream for us, but it rounded off an excellent meal. Any time you happen to be in Zamalek after 6 pm with a sushi craving, why not pop in to Torii and give your taste buds a treat.
70
71
U-PVC Windows & Doors
TO ADVERTISE IN CAIRO WEST MAGAZINE For 6th of October & Cairo-Alex Desert Rd Email: advertising@cairowestmag.com
0122 4300100
TO ADVERTISE IN CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE For Kattameya & New Cairo Email: advertising@cairoeastmag.com
0122 4300200
Affordable
Luxury Head Office & Showroom:
Factory:
3, Osman Ebn Affan St., Mohandessin GIZA - EGYPT Tel.: (+202) 334 793 94 - 330 528 01 Fax.: (+202) 330 404 23
KM 21.5, Alex. Desert Road. Tel./Fax .: (+203) 397 410 17
info@entrasections.com
(+2) 0122 0122 400
Alexandria Branch & Showroom:
201, Abdel Salam Aaref St., loran, Alexandria. Tel./Fax .: (+203) 584 25 53 www.facebook.com/Entrasections
www.entrasections.com
HotLine
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE RESTAURANT REVIEW
By Taitana Hafez Tucked away in a quiet street of Heliopolis, recently opened restaurant and bar Sachi, brings to the neighbourhood a much needed watering hole, whether you are in for a drink or for a proper meal. Sachi’s elegant interior is very well distributed into lounge, bar, high tables and dining areas, and can accommodate up to 100 people on its busiest weekend nights. The menu consists of a fusion of Japanese and international dishes.
72
73
With so many nice options, we stuck to the recommended dishes already highlighted in their menu. We went for sushi for starters and steak as the main. Both of which were spot on We started with the salmon salad from the Asian side of the menu, large chunks of fresh, high quality salmon and cubes of avocado in a beautiful, aromatic, soy, wasabi, ginger and wakami dressing. That left us wanting another portion. As our orders were coming one after the other, it seemed that the service was somehow
orchestrated, with waiters serving, others removing the finished dishes, drinks being refilled, and so on. Our second starter was the Flying Geisha, a serving of salmon, avocado and caviar mayo rolls, which were perfectly seasoned. We shared the chateaubriand as our main dish. A 600 gm cut of South African beef fillet, served with grilled vegetables, corn, and selection of four sauces, au poivre, bĂŠarnaise, balsamic and a bordelaise mushroom
sauce. The dish also came with two complimentary glasses of Château de Granville red wine. The steak was cooked according to our varying specifications, medium rare and medium well, another unexpected
trait, getting your meat right! The steak was tender and cut like butter. We also nibbled on their homemade garlic bread with Gorgonzola sauce along with our delicious meat and vegetables.
Top notch service, excellent food, great ambiance, and have we mentioned the uniformed valet parking crew waiting for you outside the restaurant? Heliopolis, you have your own new little gem!
Chateaubriand
Method:
Ingredients: • 1 piece of tenderloin 650g • 2 pieces of Café du Paris Butter • Café du Paris Butter Ingredients • 200g butter, at room temperature • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 2 drained anchovy fillets, finely chopped • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard • 1 teaspoon baby capers, rinsed, drained • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh continental parsley
The butter: Use an electric beater to beat the butter in a bowl for 3-4 minutes or until pale and creamy. Add the garlic, anchovy, mustard and capers. Beat until combined. Stir in the chives and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon the butter mixture along the centre of a piece of foil to form a log. Roll up and twist ends to secure. Place in the fridge for 1 hour or until firm. The meat: Preheat a barbecue grill on high. Season steaks with salt and pepper. Spray with oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes each side for medium-rare or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to a serving platter. Slice butter. Divide among steaks. Cover with foil and set aside for 2 minutes to rest. - This dish can be served with vegetables of your choice.
For more information: Sachi is situated at 3, Cleopatra Street, Korba, Heliopolis. For reservations: +2 24181593 (from 2pm - 11pm) or +2 01280902028 (from 11am - 7pm) The restaurant is open for lunch from 4pm to 7pm and dinner which strictly finishing at 1am. CAIROEASTMAG.COM
ADVERTISE WITH &
MAGAZINES
Reaching more than 50000 readers each month
TO ADVERTISE IN CAIRO WEST MAGAZINE For 6th of October & Cairo-Alex Desert Rd Email: advertising@cairowestmag.com
0122 4300100
TO ADVERTISE IN CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE For Kattameya & New Cairo Email: advertising@cairoeastmag.com
0122 4300200
CAIRO WEST APP AVAILABLE ON
www.cairowestmag.com
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIRO EAST MAGAZINE FEATURE
Your October
Stars
Here’s a bit of fine tuning to help you to navigate the month ahead. If you know your rising sign we suggest that you read that as well to get extra insight. By Maeri Frances (Consulting Astrologer)
The Big Picture One way or another we are all in the same boat while the outer planets, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Pluto interact closely. They are setting the stage that our lives play out on. Recent months have seen Uranus in Aries squaring off against Pluto in Capricorn, and as these planets move slowly we still have to learn to adjust to the likelihood of sudden and unexpected events that destabilise things we had previously taken for granted. We may learn more about how technology is invading our personal space and privacy during this period. Although a helpful Jupiter trine to Uranus which started in late September is still bringing a surge of optimism to many, don’t rush ahead with new projects while Mercury is in retrograde motion from the 4th to the 25th of October. This is a time to double check, plan and revise rather than put things into action. It wouldn’t hurt to do some maintenance on equipment and vehicles rather than have them break down, as can be the case in this Mercury phase. If you really must sign agreements and contracts this
76
77
month, take extra care in reading the fine print and verifying the facts.
Aries
21 March –20 April Uranus is still calling the shots in your sign, so don’t expect the ride to become any smoother in the near future. Your need for personal freedom and change may still be coming up against brick walls and authority figures. The earliest week of the month is most favourable for negotiating and getting someone on your side, even better if they are born under the sign of Leo. Take extra care in money matters around mid-month.
Taurus
21 April –21 May Any efforts you have been making to improve your health, personal grooming and eating habits in the past month will start to pay off as October draws to a close. Expect a period of positive feedback and renewed interest from a spouse or potential one. If you think someone is trying to stir up trouble behind your back the best course of action may be
to ignore it, just make sure your behaviour is above reproach first.
Gemini
22 May –21 June
Mercury is your ruling planet, so when it goes into retrograde you can expect more than your usual share of mix-ups. As it backtracks through Libra you may find your love life on rewind, giving you a sense of déjà vu. Maybe you have been giving or receiving some mixed messages? Try to clear the air before things speed up again in the coming month. If you have kids they may be demanding of time and attention that you can barely spare. You may need to make adjustments to social commitments to balance responsibilities.
Cancer 22 June –22 July The total lunar eclipse on October the 8th will bring Uranus into the picture as well, meaning that you may feel as though you have unexpectedly got caught in crossfire intended for someone else. You could be called in to mediate in a tense situation. It will be important to take all
points of view into account. This is a good month to tackle de-cluttering around the home, sort through old papers and recycle items that have been unused.
Leo
23 July –22 August Jupiter has now entered your birth sign, opening up new opportunities and injecting you with a renewed sense of joie de vivre. It could be tempting to throw yourself headlong into a project, but it is not the time yet to be signing contracts or finalising deals. Take extra care in any communication and transportation this month; there may also be computer or email glitches to contend with. A word of warning, the kilos may suddenly start piling on, watch out for those hidden calories.
Virgo
23 August –23 September That pesky retrograde Mercury isn’t doing you any favors while it hangs around your solar 2nd house. This isn’t a time for major financial moves, you should really use the month to set a sensible budget and rein in any excess spending, as money due may be delayed in materializing. Planning could include looking for additional avenues of income, these may not materialise immediately but you can at least check out the situation. Expect an extra flurry of activity around the home front.
Libra
24 September - 23 October It’s your birthday month so make sure you find time to party. Something you were expecting may not eventuate this month, so have a Plan B in place. Friendships will be your blessing this month, even
if a close relationship gets a bit volatile your buddies will be there for you. You may be increasingly aware of the common thread that binds larger groups of society; some of your perceptions may be shifting. A new and slightly eccentric person in your life may have a bearing on this.
Scorpio
24 October –22 November Saturn in your birth sign is asking you to show maturity and determination, even though you are facing added responsibilities and delays of some sort. If you handle things wisely there could be recognition coming on the career front. There may be some health concerns, so why not pop in for a check-up to stop needless worrying. Stress could be a factor. If there is romantic situation that you cannot be open about yet don’t worry, things should be easier in November.
Sagittarius
23 November –21 December Your ruling planet Jupiter is in harmonious aspect to your birth sign, supporting any plans for travel and higher education. Now that Mars has bounced into Sagittarius you should be ready for action, energy levels are high. You may even be feeling a bit reckless, so try to use it wisely, hit the gym rather than the bumper in front of you. Shared social activities are in high focus, and could absorb a lot of your time, but things should ease up in the following month.
Capricorn
22 December –20 January
get due recognition this month could be a little misjudged, so rather than throwing yourself into the limelight it could be more effective just to be diligent and refine your work methods. Ongoing juggling of domestic and career matters may test your flexibility beyond the limit this month, keep cool!
Aquarius
21 January –19 February You may need to delay some travel plans for the moment, but later you will realise that this was for the best. Try to find other ways to defuse your restlessness and need for change, some virtual travel on the net might help. It is a good time to take up study of a new subject, anything that is a little offbeat or tech- oriented looks good. Unattached Aquarians may be meeting some interesting potential partners; relationships are well-aspected, so make hay while the sun shines!
Pisces
20 February –20 March In spite of your best efforts to streamline your work methods and boost your career, financial matters are still erratic. Just do your best this month, but don’t expect money owed to come in when expected. On the upside, your health should be robust, you may see great improvements related to any efforts you make to keep fit or diet. Single Pisces might find their love life could be a bit topsy-turvy, but it could be that you need to clarify what is best to keep as a friendship, and what hold’s romantic potential.
With Pluto’s ponderous transit through your birth sign you may sometimes feel that you are just a tiny cog in a huge wheel. Efforts to stand out and CAIROEASTMAG.COM
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
Events in October 2014 at Visit to Awladi Orphanage Saturday, October 11 10.00am-2.00pm Cost: $10
Sign up for this visit to Awladi Orphanage in Maadi, and spend some time reading books, telling stories, singing or drawing and painting with the children orphanage. Feel free to borrow the children books from the CSA library. Transportation to and from the orphanage is provided.
Guitar Lessons Course of total 6 sessions Wednesday evenings, 5.00pm7.00pm
Facebook page: “Bahaa Mansour Photography “.
Calligraphy Thursdays October 23 to November 13 (4 sessions) 10.00am-11.30am Cost: $70
Learn to write your name and other Arabic words and expressions in beautiful Arabic calligraphy. Take home your own ‘work of art’ to impress your family with your new skill.
October 15 to November 22
Mum & Baby Group
Tuesday, October 14
Cost:$ 120
Wednesdays
9.00am-3:30pm
Join Hany in a six session course for guitar basic skills, chord changing and introduction to notes and rhythm. Each oneon-one private session lasts 30 minutes. This class is suitable for everyone from the age of 10 years and over regardless of their ability. Students must bring their own guitar. Acoustic guitars only.
10.00am–12.00pm
Sakkara and Dahshur Cost: $40
If you have never been to these amazing pyramids then now is the time. Visit Saqqara where you will visit one of Egypt’s earliest pyramid sites. You will see the funerary complex of King Zoser (3rd Dynasty) and the Step Pyramid. At Dahshur, you will see the two pyramids of King Snefru – the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. These pyramids proved a historic link between the Step Pyramids of Saqqara and the three great pyramids of Giza. Make sure you bring some snacks and wear comfortable walking shoes. Price include tour guide service and transportation ONLY.
Quad Biking at Giza Pyramids and Sakkara Saturday, October 18 9.00am-3.00pm Cost: $60
If you’re an adventurer and you want a unique way to see the Pyramids in Egypt, then this is perfect for you. Our guided tour
80
gives you the opportunity to conquer the desert on a 4-wheel motorbike as you explore the Pyramids in Giza, as well as at Memphis and Sakkara. You will race your way up and down the dunes, as you cruise into the desert and take in the stunning panoramic views of the Pyramids in this once in a lifetime adventure.
81
and/or Saturday mornings 10.00am-2.00pm
Photography Sundays 11.00am-1.00pm Wednesdays-Fieldtrips 11.00am2.00pm October 15 to Nov 12 Cost: $150
Join Bahaa Mansour, a professional photographer, as you learn to master your camera and the basic rules of shooting portraits, objects in motion, landscape and night shooting. This is a 4 week/9 sessions course which includes both theory and practice. Bahaa will take you for 4 field trips to practice what you have learned in class and end the course with a fun competition. Bring your camera, whatever type or model, a pen and paper and you are good to go! Check out his
Cost: $5
Come join other mums and their infants/toddlers for play dates, coffee breaks and information exchange. Mum & Baby is friendly group of new mothers who meet at CSA every Wednesday for the purpose of providing mums and caregivers fun and information in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Love upon the throne of Egypt Wednesday, October 15, 7.00pm9.00pm Saturday, October 18, 12.00pm2.00pm Cost: $5
She told him “We can’t get married; I am not a member of the royal family”. “But I love you” he replied. She looked up at him “I don’t carry the royal blood.” “You are in my blood” he said. Join Hisham El Meniawy this month for a free lecture on the love story of King Amenhotep III & Queen Tiye.
Community Services Association (CSA) 4 Road 21,Maadi ,Cairo Tel: 235 85284 / 235 80754 Mobile No: 0106 882 8540 Facebook: csa.egypt Twitter: @csamaadi www.livinginegypt.org
Now open in citystars
WHAT’S NEW EAST SIDE
Phase 2, Shop #1245
Now open in egypt
facebook.com/billsegypt Instagram: @bills_watches_egypt Twitter: @bills_egypt www.bills-watches.com Now open in the district
Nun Center October Calendar
Farmers Market Every Saturday 10am – 2pm
A weekly get-together for Cairo’s Organic and GAP certified farmers, craftspeople and local producers, Nūn Center will provide you with all the fresh produce, baked goods, as well as other products, that you could possibly need.
Baby Yoga Oct 13 – Nov 3 9:30 – 10:30am
Take an intro-level yoga class with your baby that is full of energetic stretching, yoga-based exercises, and relaxation techniques. This is an instructor-led, 4-week course for mothers and their babies (4 weekly sessions, 60 minutes each).
Infant Massage Oct 13 – Nov 3 11am – 12pm
Learn how to massage your baby with proper techniques and specialized sequences to comfort, calm, and soothe. Join this instructor-led, 4-week course for mothers and their babies (4 weekly sessions, 60 minutes each).
Vitality Program Oct 14 – Nov 4 10:30 am – 12pm
This intensive yet simple 3-week program aims to give you not only the first push to reach your health goals, but also the skills and tools to change your lifestyle with long-lasting results.
Now showing in zamalek
Eating Disorders Zeina Naim talks to parents and educational specialists in adolescence about how to identify and handle an adolescent with Oct 18th eating disorders. 6-8pm Parenting Workshop Oct 25th 11am – 4pm
Start the year off on the right foot from peaceful mornings to out of the house and smooth evenings of homework and practices by learning how to connect deeply with your children so they respect your family values and goals.
Martial Arts – Chi Kung Ongoing
Based on 5 animals postures: Dragon, tiger, leopard, snake, and crane, this ancient taoist exercise helps to improve the internal and external health of the practitioner. The postures improve the chi circulation and the functions of the 5 organs: Kidneys, lungs, liver, spleen, and heart.
Yoga Ongoing
New Yoga schedule & great teachers. We all need different things & that is also true when it comes to yoga. Come experience a selection of yoga classes that vary in styles, intensity, and timing. Check out our website for the exact class schedule www.nuncenter.com
82
83
Upcoming exhibition at Gypsum Gallery, Mona Marzouk is an artist based in Alexandria, Egypt. The exhibition opening will be on 29 September at 7:00 PM. The show will be on until 11 November at 8:00 PM. 5a Bahgat Ali Str., Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt. gypsumgallery.com
EAST SIDE
Senior Management Meeting Brings Together Mindshare’s Brightest Minds Mindshare, which is part of WPP, is a global media agency network helping clients to make collaborative and adaptive decisions across their paid, owned, and earned marketing in real-time. The Mindshare MENA senior management came together for a management meeting in Dubai on August 28th and 29th. The event, which took place at Fairmont The Palm in Dubai, featured the theme “Adapt to Lead,” and discussed Mindshare’s plans to put this attitude to the test and make it a reality in all markets across the MENA region. The meeting showcased Mindshare’s product developments across three crucial pillars, including data and tech, digital, and creativity. Across these three areas, senior management representatives also discussed how to develop talent across these three areas with the support of Mindshare’s global team. This year, Mindshare MENA’s top employees and senior management were thrilled to welcome the Mindshare global team, including Mindshare EMEA CO-CEO Christof Baron, who left impressed by the regional team’s ideas, passion and commitment. “The media industry and technology are rapidly evolving, and in order to offer the best services to our clients and continuously add value to their business, we need to stay one step ahead,” says Mindshare MENA CEO Samir Ayoub. “At this year’s ‘Adapt to Lead’ management meeting, our team has outdone themselves again with thrilling ideas that push boundaries and innovate – just the attitude that we expect from our creative minds at Mindshare.”
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
Fiat Makes its Long-Awaited Comeback to Egypt
Fiat Chrysler Group announced its return to the Egyptian market today. The company, represented by Fiat Chrysler Egypt, and its newly appointed dealer, Nile Engineering, presented its vision to a select group of journalists and guests at a press conference attended by Mr. Maciej Ratynski, Fiat Chrysler Egypt CEO, Eng. Ayman Al Ayouty, Nile Engineering Chairman and Eng. Hisham El-Tayeby, Nile Engineering CEO, in addition to key senior executives from Fiat Chrysler Group in Turin, Italy. The company announced the inauguration of Nile Engineering’s latest Fiat and Alfa Romeo showrooms, in addition to one of the largest service centers in the Middle East, attesting to the company’s commitment to serve the Egyptian market. Now, and thanks to European expertise and Italian technology, the company can provide a variety of models, which combine attractive designs, better engines with improved fuel efficiency and all at highly competitive prices. There is a key focus on after sales service and support for current customers who will now be served by Nile Engineering at its new facility in Obour. The models that will be available in the Egyptian market are Fiat 500, Fiat 500L, Fiat Punto, Fiat Qubo, Fiat Doblo, Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Alfa Romeo Mita, and Alfa Romeo 4C, as well as the professional models Fiat Fiorino, and Fiat Ducato.
Jumia announces the launch of Jumia
Chic Fashion Blog - Jumia Chic, the new online fashion and beauty destination Jumia Egypt, the e-commerce leader in Egypt and Africa recently announced the launch of Jumia Chic, its new fashion blog at www.jumiachic.com , which will bring together all facets of high fashion and lifestyle with one click. Jumia chic is set to be the new online fashion and beauty destination, brought to the readers by Jumia Egypt. “We want our new blog to be the place where readers can find the most updated fashion news online and to help them in achieving their desired level of style”, said Mattia Perroni, CEO, Jumia Egypt. Bridging the gap between an online magazine and a personal blog, Jumia chic will bring the reader the experience of a fashion blog with the writers’ personal touch along with the professionalism of a magazine through shoots and high profile collaborations. Catering to both men and women, Jumia Chic is the first blog that is the first online destination for both genders of all ages in fashion and lifestyle. Jumia has launched several successful fashion blogs around Africa including We Love Style in Nigeria and ZAZZ in Morocco. In celebration of the launch, Jumia hosted a cocktail event, included a panel discussion moderated by Cairo’s favorite voice, Sally Sampson. Members of the panel include names such as Amira Azouz from Fustany, Islam Ahmed from Vichi and Abdallah Rushdi from Cairo Fashion Report, discussing the topic “The rise of Lifestyle industry in Egypt”. “Jumia Chic will be one more avenue that will support the expansion of the fashion scene in Egypt” added Mattia Perroni.
84
85
When it comes to historic hotels of Egypt, there is only one undisputed king, and that is the Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino. The original building dates back to the 19th century when Khedive Ismail had it specially constructed to welcome royal guests who were in town to witness the inaugural celebrations of the Suez Canal. While the monarchs have come and gone, the palace remains beautifully intact and, with the arrival of new tech-friendly features, a showpiece for what modern hospitality can be. Guests arriving at this palace hotel may expect an anachronism that transports them back in time. What they find, however, is a property that thoughtfully melds the best of historic grandeur with contemporary convenience. Case in point is the Wi-Fi access that guests can now enjoy on a complimentary basis, not just in the public areas, but also in the guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Today’s travelers appreciate easy connectivity, which makes free Internet access highly desirable. That’s also why the property was among the first to offer mobile check-in and check-out capabilities (via Marriott’s Mobile Guest Services App) to Marriott Rewards members. And the hotel’s Red Coat Direct service, which lets meeting planners manage their events in real-time via smart phones and tablets, is the modern equivalent of the royal treatment for business travelers. The hotel also recently installed new LED televisions in its guest rooms and suites. Now all deluxe rooms are outfitted with 42-inch televisions, and travelers staying in one of the executive rooms or suites can unwind in front of a 47-inch screen. Just as Khedive Ismail’s original guests experienced the premier splendors and comforts of their day, Marriott’s guests can indulge in the latest and greatest of what is available today. After all, attentive service is one thing that never goes out of fashion.
Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo welcomes H.E Omani Minister of Foreign Affairs Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo is honored to have recently hosted H.E Mr. Youssef Bin Alawy Bin Abdallah, Omani Minister of Foreign Affairs and H.E Mr. Khalifa Bin Aly El Harsy Ambassador of Oman. Upon arrival at the hotel, the highly esteemed guests were greeted by a welcoming party comprised of the General Manager, Mr. Ahmed El Hady and an assortment of Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo’s management and staff. His Excellency expressed his satisfaction with the Hotel’s services and professionalism of the staff.
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
EAST SIDE
Cairo Marriott Hotel - Historic Egyptian Palace Integrates High-Tech Touches for a Hotel Like No Other
Bring out your Inner Italian at STRADA, Four Seasons Cairo
Soha Samir, Ikram Zaki, Rania Halim, Hibba Bilal,Mohga Bakeer
Amany Kassem, Emanuela Chiumeo Innaro
Azza El-Husseiny, Mohamed Madi
October is all about Italian cuisine and what’s more Italian than Strada, a fine dining Cairo experience on the Nile at Four Seasons Cairo at the First Residence. We’re talking new additions to Chef Riccardo’s signature menu, Couples and Ladies special. Chef Riccardo Parisse has spared no expense by adding new dishes such as Lobster & Black Crumble to his signature menu. Such updates are extended to the lunch set menu. Book your Tuesdays & Thursdays in one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in Cairo; On Tuesdays when dining as a couple, enjoy 50% off the lady’s food order and on Thursdays ladies enjoy an open complimentary bar when dining at Strada (soft drinks, local alcoholic beverages). In addition, a new risotto menu offers over 10 different types of risotto including Pumpkin & Amaretto risotto & Red pepper with Anchovy & Green sauce risotto. Full of taste, full of color! It’s all at Strada, one of the top Italian restaurants in Cairo.
IKEA launches interactive Catalogue 2015 See and try IKEA products virtually even before entering the store Driven by the belief that simple solutions and innovative ideas are the easiest route to discovering inspiration, home furnishing retailer IKEA launched its Catalogue 2015 in Egypt. Designed around the theme of ‘Where good days start’, the Catalogue is accompanied by a mobile phone application that allows the user to ‘try’ IKEA products through the feature of augmented reality. Users can now scan specific sections of the catalogue to create furniture settings in their immediate surroundings and match the set up. “The interactive nature of the IKEA Catalogue 2015 makes it substantially different to anything else within the retail furnishing market. Through the amazing function of Augmented Reality, Egyptian users can scan certain sections of the catalogue to bring an IKEA product to life within their own homes. The process is very simple and only needs the user to scan the product they would like to try and place the catalogue on the spot where they would like the product placed within their homes. The mobile app would then create an impression of the product in the actual surrounding. Customers can choose over 300 products among a variety of colour, size, and design options. The catalogue also offers an illustrative video through the Extended Content feature which helps new users accustom themselves to the technology,” says John Kersten, Managing Director – IKEA Egypt, UAE, Qatar, and Oman. The IKEA Catalogue is among the world’s most widely circulated publications with over 217 million copies printed worldwide in more than 32 languages across 46 countries. It is instrumental in taking the IKEA popular inspiration into the various Egyptian homes allowing customers to look through thousands of products and their price, quality and range related information from the comfort of their living rooms. The new Catalogue as well as the Catalogue phone application can also be found on the official website for IKEA Egypt, www.IKEA.eg, or call 16576.
86
87
EMPLOYMENT
MARKETING MANAGER
With a minimum of 5 years experience in the retail sector.
ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER With 3-5 years experience Please send your C.V
icckilo28@hotmail.com
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD HERE Tel: +2 0122 4300 200 / +2 02 337 76137 Email: advertising@cairoeastmag.com
EMPLOYMENT
SOCIAL MEDIA EXPERT Needed Minimum 3 years experience Email: careers@cairowestmag.com Tel: +2 0122 430 0200
EMPLOYMENT
Seeking a
Community Representative An active member of the community interested in working in the publishing business. Part time job, flexible hours. work will be mostly done by email. Tel: +2 0122 4300 200 Email: careers@cairowestmag.com
CAIROEASTMAG.COM
classifieds
CLASSIFIEDS