CityPages January 2016

MAGAZINE ISSUE No.

73 JANUARY 2016

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LIFESTYLE / PEOPLE / EVENTS / FASHION

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ISSUE 73, VOLUME 6, JANUARY 2016

88.

46.

22.

94.

29. ‫العطور العربية بالتاريخ‬ 30. Rising To The Challenge 101. Top Music Charts 32. Behind The Spirit Of The Season 106. January Movie Releases 34. The Joys Of Being A Karate Mum 36. Icebergs In Paris FASHION 38. Stadium Of Champions 120. Citypages Fashion Editorial 130. How Star Wars Has Influenced The World Of Fashion 43. ‫حلمك ينتظرك انهض وأسس مشروعك اخلاص‬ 44. Around The World With A Big Bird 132. Fashion Inspiration 52. The Dark Past Of Peregrine Spode 134. The Style Code 85. Oud 136. Fashion News

ENTERTAINMENT

FEATURES

18. Globe To Globe Hamlet 26. Are You Switched On To Energy Conservation?

FITNESS

76. Eat Right For Your

ISSUE 73, VOLUME 6, JANUARY 2016

FOOD 62. Indian In London And Kuwait 70. Talking Italian 78. Yummy For Their Little Tummy

HEALTH

80.

102.

66.

114.

86. The Big 6 Eye Care Tips For 2016

INTERVIEW 22. ‫ دينا عبدالكرمي‬.‫ا‬ 46. Perryhan El-Ashmawi 56. Talal Alrashed 66. Natacha Bultot 80. Rasha Bishara 88. Dr. Tamam El-Khalil 94. Lisa Winstanley 102. Chien Chu Lee 114. Sandra Bakhamian

TECHNOLOGY 110. Cool New Gadgets 112. Tech Updates & News Travel 54. Top Five ‘Musts’ For Miami

REGULARS 64. The City Guide 100. In Permanent Pursuit Of Perfection 108. December Book Releases 109. Book Club 135. Adopt A Street Princess 140. Events 142. Press 144. Horoscopes 146. Homework For Grown Ups

MAGAZINE

From the Editor Dear Readers, I’d like to start by wishing you all a very Happy New Year. I hope the holiday season was a joyful one and you’re looking forward to whatever challenges and adventures the New Year has in store.

I hope you like the new look CityPages. We’ve given your favourite magazine a New Year facelift and, especially for our sixth anniversary, have produced six different covers for this January issue. Feel free to pick up each special edition! The celebratory covers have been designed by six very talented individuals, details of whom you will find featured inside the magazine.

Dhari Al-Muhareb Editor-in-Chief

Jameel Arif

On the subject of arts, Kuwait was honored to be included in the Globe’s world tour of Shakespeare’s Hamlet this month. This world famous play was performed in the wonderful new auditorium at the American United School and thoroughly deserved the hype that preceded its arrival. A team of sixteen dedicated men and women, including twelve exceptionally talented actors, performed to a captivated audience on 6th January and received a well deserved standing ovation for their efforts. Despite their hectic schedule, three members of the team found time to talk to us about their experience and I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading what they had to say.

General Manager & Editor

Eng. Homoud Al-Muhareb Publishing Director

Gill Sherry

Group Editor

For many of us, January is the time for making resolutions and one of the most common is to get fit. If you need a little encouragement, check out our Karehana Fitness column and kick-start your campaign. This month’s articles from Gill Sherry and Ali Stewart should also provide you with the necessary motivation to succeed in your quest.

Kinda Al-Faris

Executive Editor

Nathalie Roland Sales Manager

While you’re concentrating on finding new levels of energy, spare a thought for the energy consumption in your home. Perhaps it’s time to be a little smarter when it comes to our natural recourses. Paul Tunbridge and John MacArthur certainly seem to think so and hopefully you will too.

Whether you’re watching your waistline or not, make sure you read our interview with Talal Alrashed, the Kuwaiti food blogger making mouths water with his tales of world cuisine; and don’t miss our special review of Kuwait’s latest ‘happening’ restaurant, Mangiare.

Claudia Farias

Content Supervisor

Tanya Burns

Creative Director Graphic Designers

As always, fashion is widely featured in this month’s issue so you can start the New Year feeling as stylish as ever! And don’t forgeto to keep up-to-date with the latest movies, books and technology.

Mohammed Syed Khaled Al-Enezi

Best Wishes to all you for 2016!

Jameel Arif

General Manager & Editor

Published by:

jameelrf@citypageskuwait.com

70

Reduce Waste Pass me along to a friend or recycle me after reading

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DISCLAIMER

Extra care has been used to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine. However, the publisher will not accept responsibility for errors and omissions in the publication. In addition, the views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Photos have been altered to comply with the Laws of Kuwait.

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COPYRIGHTS

All rights reserved. No part of this publication including pictures, articles, artworks, and overall design may be reproduced, copied, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated in any language in any form or means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the written permission of the editor or the publisher. Copyright © January 2016

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MAGAZINE

The Team! #73 JANUARY 2016 Kinda Al Faris Executive Editor

Dear Readers, The holiday season is sadly over. However, a new year with new beginnings has arrived.

I'm very excited for all the good things that 2016 will bring. A lot of people have said that last year was not one of their best years and I'm in full agreement; which is why I'm looking forward to good news this year.

Due to a vested interest, I'm hoping that the Syrian conflict is resolved so that its citizens can have a chance to rebuild their psyche as well as their infrastructure. I also hope that the Middle East finds a better balance so that we can all finally exist without having to worry about looking over our shoulders.

Abdullah Y. Shams AlDeen Abdulaziz Al-Khamis Abdalla AlMuzaini Ali - DJ RAVEN ASAMA Perfumes BirthKuwait Dr. Nazia Nausheen Faisal Al-Dhofari Erika Habig John McArthur Julieta Altamiranda Layla Harmony Maha Al-Rashed

Photography Team Abdullah Hamadah Abdulaziz AlSoraya Abdulaziz AlShayaji Natalia Sitcai Othman AlMishaan Dalal AlDhughaishem

Nadia Al-Hassan Nada Soliman Nada Faris Nour Al-Zaabi Paul Tunbridge Sanaa Abdul Hamid Sandra Bakhamian Sherihan A. Hassabo Talah Alabdulaaly Tassnim Hassoun Zahra Taqi

Distribution Team V. Rajan S. V. Gopal

I wish you all the best for the year ahead!

Kinda Al Faris

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Cover: 4 Cover: 1

Photograph by: Jem Mendoza Lumibao

Designed by: Sandra Bakhamian

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Globe to Globe

Photo credits: Dhari Al Fozan

HAMLET

Gill Sherry

P

“TO BE OR NOT TO BE: THAT IS THE QUESTION”

robably the most famous quote in the English language and instantly recognizable as the work of William Shakespeare.

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in Kuwait and the first professional production of a Shakespeare play in the country.

Often referred to as England’s national poet, Shakespeare wrote around 38 plays and 154 sonnets – not bad for a man who died at the age of 52. Arguably, the most famous of his plays are the tragic tales of Hamlet, Othello, King Lear and Macbeth. Considered by many as the finest works in the English language, the plays have been translated into every major modern language and have been enjoyed by theatre goers the world over. But never in Kuwait.

The two year tour to every country in the world (Kuwait being the 157th) began on 23rd April 2014, the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth. It has received incredible reviews.

With just twelve actors performing over two dozen parts, the tour has been described in the press as ‘simple storytelling at its best’ and ‘a wonderfully engrossing production’.

To use the words of Dominic Dromgoole, the Globe’s Artistic Director, they aimed to take this wonderful, iconic, multifarious play to as many fresh ears as possible. Well, they’ve certainly done that.

Never, that is, until now. Earlier this month Shakespeare’s Globe came to the Middle East.

In the final leg of their Globe to Globe tour, Hamlet was performed at the Performing Arts Centre at the American United School, Kuwait; a once in a lifetime event for Arts lovers based

But taking Hamlet on tour was no mean feat, and it was thanks to Staged in Kuwait Productions that we were able to enjoy and appreciate this Shakespearean masterpiece.

The Not-For-Profit Community Theatre organization was asked by the Globe to

JANUARY, 2016

organize the Kuwait leg of their tour and, together with the United Education Company (UEC) and the British Council, did a fabulous job bringing this iconic play to our shores.

Both the matinee (for schools and drama education groups) and the VIP evening performance were meticulously organised and seamlessly executed, ensuring maximum enjoyment for both audience and cast.

Having studied Shakespeare at school, I was excited at the prospect of seeing Hamlet performed live. Not only that, but thanks to SiK’s Artistic Director, Tim Waddell, I was able to speak to the International Tour Associate, Malú Ansaldo, plus two members of the cast before they took to the stage.

Malú teamed up with Matthew Romain (whose parts include Laertes, Horatio and Fortinbras) and Naeem Hayat (Hamlet), to tell me about their incredible two year Globe to Globe experience.

What has been the most challenging aspect of the tour?

Naeem: Definitely time. Time is always a major factor. The logistics of getting sixteen people to where they need to be is always a challenge.

Malú: Every country has different limitations so we need to adapt to the way they work. We try to make the travel arrangements as easy and as short as possible but visas can be a problem. One week I needed to arrange five visas; two in London, two in Brussels and one in Paris.

Matthew: It’s relentless. Days off are spent exploring so there are no days of just doing nothing.

Has the audience reaction differed from country to country?

Matthew: Yes. Aside from cultural differences, the way people behave, or think they should behave, varies from country to country. In Eastern Europe for example, they were very stoic and serious, to the point where we thought they didn’t enjoy it; but in the end, they were rapturous. In The Caribbean, they engaged in the play and responded out loud.

One member of the audience actually shouted “That’s no way to treat your mother!”

Malú: It’s also important to remember that some of these people have never been to the theatre before so had no idea how to behave or how to express opinion.

Was there one particular country you were looking forward to visiting?

Matthew: I’d say it was the countries I had not been to before and would be unlikely to visit on my own. Countries like Iran and Iraq.

I’d love to go to North Korea but we’re still negotiating for that.

Which has been country so far?

your

favourite

Malú: There are different memories from each country. Some are wonderful because of the people we met; some because of how smoothly it all went; others for an extremely memorable performance.

Photo credits: Dhari Al Fozan

Matthew: Ask me again in a few years! Time filters memories to leave clear, defining moments. After twenty months, it’s difficult to name a specific place as my favourite.

Naeem: It’s impossible to say. Some have outstanding natural beauty others are memorable for different reasons. Some countries have been pleasantly surprising.

Cape Verde was beautifully tranquil but not a place I’d ever thought of going. Also São Tomé and Príncipe was a little gem.

Have you had any spare time to explore?

Matthew: I’ve become very good at being a tourist! I look up the top sights in advance and if I get three hours before the show I’ll CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

19

head out and explore. The draw of the tour is visiting the countries and thankfully, I rarely leave a country and think that I haven’t seen anything of it.

Naeem: We need to plan meticulously as we have very little time. It’s what we call ‘extreme tourism’.

What’s the most difficult thing about playing multiple parts?

Naeem: It’s challenging but it keeps it interesting. Not playing the same part each night means each show is different and what started off as a challenge then becomes an advantage.

Where was your largest audience?

Malú: Probably Sudan with an audience of 3,000.

Presumably access to some countries is restricted?

Photo credits: Bronwen Sharp

Matthew: Remembering who you are at any one time! We learn the parts simultaneously.

It’s not so much remembering your own part but remembering to forget the others!

Matthew: There are some countries we’re unable to visit. For example, we can’t go to Syria so instead, we performed for the Syrian refugees in Jordan, in what was basically a tin structure.

Where was the most unusual venue?

Malú: In Mexico we performed in front of Yucatán Cathedral which was erected way back when Shakespeare was writing. The venue was outdoors and people were swinging from the trees to see us.

In Cyprus, the venue backed on to the sea which was amazing.

Photo credits: Helena Miscioscia

Malú: The Central African Republic was also not possible so we worked with the UN and performed instead to an audience in the camps of Mandjou, a 7 hour drive from the city.

Matthew: Mandjou was probably the most unusual. It was basically a café with a shop front next to the road. There were no advertisements and no invited audience so we had no idea how many people would show up.

A crowd gathered and at one point the police asked us for our permits. Unfortunately, the guy with the permits had gone for a cup of tea so we had to stop performing and wait for him to come back! Some people had no reason at all to be there but they stayed and watched us perform.

In Swaziland, we performed in what’s known as the ‘House on Fire’ which is like Africa’s

20

JANUARY, 2016

Photo credits: Bronwen Sharp

Tuvalu was also unusual. It’s the main atoll in the Pacific and the airport runway doubles up as the main road and the football pitch! They sound a siren when a plane needs to land. We performed there with the sea either side of the ‘stage’. The building also doubled up as the Government House!

equivalent of the globe.

How have you coped spending so much time in each other’s company?

Naeem: I feel more lucky than unlucky. We face challenges on and off stage but we talk about them and laugh about them.

Matthew: We’re one big dysfunctional family!

Photo credits: Bronwen Sharp

Any funny stories you can share?

Naeem: During one performance, the audience started laughing just as I said “To be, or not to be”. I had no idea what they were laughing at but apparently a dog had walked on the stage!

Matthew: Things do go wrong on stage but we just laugh amongst ourselves.

Any major disasters?

Malú: There was one particularly horrible hotel which had dried vomit on the wall! And we once had a problem with the stage curtain.

Matthew: Even the bad things which start out as negatives later have their own charm and value.

Photo credits: Helena Miscioscia

Are any of you superstitious? Do you have any pre-performance rituals?

Matthew: I don’t think so, although one of us is superstitious about flying. She always has to touch the outside of the plane before she gets on. If she forgets, she pushes her way back to the front.

What were your first impressions of Kuwait?

Naeem: It was lovely to see the kids in the audience so engaged, and lovely to perform to young people with a sense of humour. There was a freshness to them which was great to see.

Matthew: Definitely the welcome and the hospitality. This seems to be indicative of Kuwait.

What are you looking forward to most about returning to your homes?

Matthew: Rest and TV!

Photo credits: Helena Miscioscia

Naeem: Seeing family and friends and my mother’s cooking. Basically, all the things you take for granted.

For those lucky enough to attend this one nightly only event, I’m sure you’ll agree it was a fine performance and a fitting tribute to the ‘Bard of Avon’. 450 years after this birth, it’s good to know his work is still recognized, appreciated and enjoyed by many. Well done to the Globe, and all involved, for sharing this unprecedented theatrical adventure and for bringing this world famous production to Kuwait. Bravo.

CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

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JANUARY, 2016

‫ا‪ .‬دينا عبدالكريم‬ ‫دينا ‪ ..‬إمرأة كويتية متحررة بأفكارها ومعتقداتها متمسكة‬ ‫ببيتها وعائلتها ‪ ،‬مؤمنة بأن لإلنسان طاقات جبارة تمكنه‬ ‫من الوصول إلى كل أهدافه مهما كانت‪ .‬توازن بين مختلف‬ ‫مجاالت حياتها تتبعا للحديث الشريف‪ :‬كلكم راع وكلكم‬ ‫مسئول عن رعيته‪.‬‬ ‫دخلت مجال التدريب واالستشارة حتى توصل رسائلها‬ ‫للمجتمع وتكون يدا تنهض من تعثر‪ .‬تحب األعمال التطوعية‬ ‫من أجل اإلنسانية‪ .‬هنا نلتقي باألستاذة دينا عبدالكريم‬ ‫لنتعرف عليها باختصار كمدربة ومستشارة‪.‬‬

‫‪23‬‬

‫‪CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM‬‬

‫ارجو تقديم نفسك لقرائنا‬ ‫اسمي دينا عبدالكريم‪ ،‬إمرأة كويتية ‪،‬طموحة وأقدر العلم واآلداب‪ .‬هادئة‬ ‫ألني مكتفية بضوضاء أفكاري‪ .‬أغار على وطني وعروبتي و ديني‪ .‬أحب بيتي‬ ‫واألجواء العائلية الدافئة والحميمة‪ .‬أتطلع ألن اعطي كل ما يتعلق بحياتي‬ ‫حقه‪ .‬أسعى ألكون أحد المؤثرين في العالم‪.‬‬

‫اخبرينا عن دراستك‬ ‫خريجة جامعة الكويت‪ /‬كلية العلوم تخصص علم الحيوان‬

‫ففي نهاية كل يوم من الالزم أن أكون قد تعلمت شيئا من هذه الحياة يطور‬ ‫ذاتي‪.‬‬

‫توجهين االطفال فقط او تشملين االهل ايضا ؟‬ ‫هل‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫االثنان‪ .‬وكثير من األحيان أجد أن الوالدين هم بحاجة الى التوجيه ‪ ..‬فمعظم‬ ‫تصرفات األطفال والمراهقين ماهي إال ردود أفعال لما يواجههم‪ .‬هنا البد من‬ ‫تعديل المسببات أوال والتي تتعلق بالوالدين‪.‬‬

‫وتخصص مساند كلية اآلداب‪ /‬لغة انجليزية‬ ‫ماجستير فسيولوجي‬ ‫مدرب ومستشار معتمد في التنمية البشرية‬ ‫حاصلة على عدة شهادات تدريبية في المجال التربوي وأجهزة الحاسوب‬ ‫والجرافولوجي وغيره‪.‬‬

‫بطريقة موجزة‪ ،‬كيف تصفين عملك؟‬ ‫كمدرب ومستشار تخصص قيادة ذاتية وتربوية اهتم في التحفيز و تربية‬ ‫األطفال والمراهقين إيمانا مني بأن ارتقاء الدولة يبدأ في تربية الطفل التربية‬ ‫السليمة ألن هذا الطفل سيصبح يوما ما مسئوال هو وأقرانه عن هذا الوطن‬ ‫مثلنا تماما‪.‬‬

‫من او ماذا ألهمك لتختاري هذا المجال ؟‬ ‫أوال ‪:‬عطفي وحبي لألطفال والمراهقين الذي زرعته في قلبي والدتي يوما‬ ‫حينما قالت لي األطفال كاألسرى يرتدون ما تشترين ويأكلون ما تطبخين‬ ‫وعلى هذا القبيل‪.‬‬ ‫ثانيا ‪ :‬كلمة قالها لي والدي بداية زواجي أن تربية األبناء ليست سهلة‪ ..‬فلم‬ ‫أسأله كيف أو لماذا ولكني لم اقتنع حتى انجبت وجربت ‪..‬وأثبتت لي التجربة‬ ‫أن والدي كان محقا‪ .‬فكلمته هذه جعلتني أحب أن أخوض هذا المجال الصعب‪.‬‬ ‫وال أنكر تشجيع زوجي لي وحتى أبنائي الذين ألهموني لخوض مجال التدريب‪.‬‬

‫ما هي بعض العالمات لالهل ان ولدهم بحاجة لعالج‬ ‫؟ وهل تختلف بين البنات واالوالد ؟‬ ‫اوال البد وأن تكون الحالة استمرت ألشهر واألفضل بحدود الستة أشهر وكذلك‬ ‫عمل اختبارات القياس النفسي لثبوت الحالة النفسية‪.‬‬ ‫بالنسبة لألوالد والبنات هناك تشابه في األمور وبالتأكيد اختالف في أمور أخرى‬ ‫نظرا الختالف الجنس‪.‬‬

‫ما هي بعض المشاكل االكثر شيوعا عند االطفال‬ ‫والمراهقين التي صادفتيها؟‬ ‫أكثر مشكلة يعاني منها األهالي كما الحظت أن ابني ال يستجيب لكالمي وال‬ ‫أوامري ويتجاهلها‪.‬‬ ‫وبالنسبة للمراهقين أنهم متحفظون جدا و ال يتحدثون مع أهلهم عن‬ ‫أمورهم واهتماماتهم‪.‬‬ ‫وأكثر مشاكل المراهقين تحدث بسبب الحساسية الزائدة في هذه المرحلة‬ ‫وهنا البد من التعامل الصحيح مع المراهق حتى يستجيب‪.‬‬

‫ما هي بعض اساليب التعامل التي تعتمدينها؟‬ ‫اعتمادي األول ‪ :‬بتطوير الذات عن طريق قراءة الكتب وحضور الدورات التدريبية‪.‬‬ ‫ثانيا الخبرة العملية واالستفادة من التجارب الحياتية‪.‬‬

‫المراهقون معروفين بتواصلهم ليال و نهارًا على‬ ‫وسائل التواصل االجتماعي‪ .‬هل تسمحين لمرضاكي او‬ ‫الهلهم بالتواصل معك من خالل االنترنت ؟ او ال؟ ولماذا ؟‬ ‫نعم بالتأكيد‪.‬‬ ‫لكن بعض االستشارات تحتاج متابعة ووقت و البد من التواصل وجها لوجه‪.‬‬ ‫فأحيانا اضطر للتواصل من خالل وسائل التواصل االجتماعي ألشخاص خارج‬ ‫الكويت‪.‬‬

‫ما هي بعض التحديات التي تواجهينها في هذا‬ ‫المجال ؟‬ ‫أؤمن بأن العقبات أو التحديات تصبح سبال للنجاح بقوة االيمان وقد تكون أحيانا‬ ‫خيرة لتأخير أمر ما حتى وقته المناسب‪ .‬لذلك ال استطيع ذكر أي تحديات ألني‬ ‫أنظر لها بأنها تدبير من اهلل لحكمة ما‪ .‬واهلل عند حسن ظن عبده به‪.‬‬

‫ما هي بعض خططك المستقبلية؟‬ ‫مبدئيا أتطلع لعقد دورات تدريبية في دول الخليج العربي‬

‫ما هي بعض هواياتك؟‬ ‫هواياتي عديدة وأمارسها بين وقت وآخر فال غنى لي عنها‪:‬‬ ‫أحب الرسم والديكوباج‬ ‫وكتابة الشعر والمقال‬ ‫أحب تصميم األزياء والديكور‪.‬‬

‫كيف يستطيعون االهل او قرائنا بالتواصل معك ؟‬ ‫يمكنهم التواصل معي من خالل حسابي باالنستقرام والتلقرام والواتساب‪.‬‬ ‫@‪ct_dina‬‬

‫رسالتك لنا في مجلة ‪CityPages‬‬ ‫أشكر مجلة سيتي بيجز على هذا اللقاء واالهتمام بالمجاالت المختلفة‬ ‫والمثمرة‪ .‬كما يسعدني االنضمام إلى فريق المجلة لنشر بعض من مقاالتي‪.‬‬ ‫تمنياتي القلبية بالمزيد من التقدم والتميز والنجاح لسيتي بيجز والعاملين‬ ‫بها‪.‬‬ ‫‪JANUARY, 2016‬‬

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CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

25

ARE YOU SWITCHED ON TO ENERGY CONSERVATION?

Paul Tunbridge A professional Facilities Manager from England, and with work experience across mainland Europe before arriving in Kuwait in 2007 Paul's interests include architecture and gardening as well as creative writing and the arts in general.

L

ike me, you have probably heard about plans to increase the cost of energy – electricity, gas, etc. – here in Kuwait in the very near future.

But how will it affect you? Will you simply carry on as normal and take the financial hit? Or will you think more about your energy usage … and wastage?

When I first arrived in Kuwait, I must admit I was shocked at the massively unnecessary consumption of electricity in a country which, at the time, was suffering regular power outages due to excesses of demand over supply capacity. Coming from a country where the high costs of energy are passed directly on to the individual consumers, I had been used to switching off unnecessary lights around the house (and the office) and to switching off electrical appliances when not in use. Yet here in Kuwait it seems customary to leave lights and appliances burning the power even when there’s nobody around to enjoy the benefits. I somehow doubt that this will change greatly when the costs rise, but we all need to realise that it’s not just about the hit to the wallet, but about the waste of our natural and dwindling resources. We rarely appreciate, after all, that whilst we take it for granted that flicking a switch will instantly give us all the electricity we need, to create that energy from the natural resources available is a more complex and costly process.

Water is another natural resource that we tend to take for granted, expecting that turning a tap or faucet will instantly provide a flow of fresh running water.

But all too often, demand can outstrip supply if the resources are not properly managed. The British Isles are surrounded by water, and suffer many months of incessant rainfall, but most years face low water supplies and even water-rationing! It was a few years

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JANUARY, 2016

ago when British homes were fitted with water meters and householders were charged for the amount of water they used. As a result, I took a hard look at my water usage and took steps to reduce my consumption – I collected rainwater in large barrels to water my garden, instead of using the sprinkler during summer dry spells; I reduced the tank capacity in my cisterns so that less water was used for each flush; I showered more and ran fewer baths; and most importantly, I stopped letting the tap run and run whilst brushing my teeth.

There are many others in Europe who are even more enthusiastic to reduce energy consumption, either because they are keen to protect the environment as much as possible, or to save money, or both. And many are also turning to self-generation of energy for much the same reasons, utilizing wind energy through mini wind turbines and the sun’s energy through solar panels.

In previous articles I have introduced readers to some energy efficient and ecologically built homes, but I will now tell you about a house in England which selfproduces so much electricity that the owner sells his surplus back to the local energy provider!

Tim and Margaret Willcox managed to build an ecohouse in the West of England which is super-insulated, includes a rainwater harvesting system which reduces their water bills by 60%, and has a ventilation system which expels stale air and replaces it with fresh air.

The couple’s home has two types of solar power – one heats water while an array of photovoltaic panels generate electricity. In the 12 months to November last year, the couple used £290 (KD130) of gas and another

£413 (KD184) of electricity, making a total of £703 (KD314). However, they received a payment of £1471 (KD656) from the National Grid for the electricity they supplied to the rest of the network, which meant their energy bills were wiped out completely and they made £768 (KD342). That might not sound like much, until compared with the regular energy bills of standard houses.

Their rainwater harvesting system diverts water from the guttering into a 5,000 litre tank so it can be used to flush their toilets. As a result, their water bills – charged through a meter – have been reduced by about 60 per cent.

The ventilation system that pulls out stale air and brings in fresh air eliminates draughts and damp. Mr. Willcox said: ‘What we have done could be achieved by anybody in a newbuild property. If all new homes were built to this specification, or something similar, it would massively reduce the need for new power stations.’

The planning and construction of the home took two years and the couple have lived there for six.

With a land cost of £170,000 (KD 75,775)

and building costs, including a detached garage and the eco installations, totalling £350,000 (KD156,006) the overall cost reached £520,000 (KD231,781). However, the home is now believed to be worth more than £800,000 (KD356,578).

Mr. Willcox said: ‘The price of gas and electricity has gone up considerably since the house was finished, so the very high efficiency of our insulation and heating systems combined mean we just keep on saving more money all the time.

In a country which benefits from so much natural sunlight, I wonder why Kuwait has not yet taken greater advantage of solar energy.

I’m not suggesting that all new villas here should follow these design concepts – they are experimental even in England – but I do hope that everyone will exercise just a little more thought when it comes to using our resources.

When you leave a room, do you really need to leave the TV switched on? Are there lights that can be switched off? Do you need to leave the water running?

Please just think about it. It’s the little things that, together, will make a big difference.

CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

27

‫العطور العربية بالتاريخ‬

‫ان للعطور العربية مكانة خاصة في عالم العطور ‪.‬‬ ‫حيث بدأت العطور العربية عبر غليان االزهار والبذور والورقيات كالورد والهيل‬ ‫والزعفران والياسمين والقرنفل والنباتات الطبية‪.‬‬ ‫وكان الماء الناتج من عملية الغليان يستخدم كعطر يرش به المكان والمالبس ‪.‬‬ ‫ثم تطورت الطرق وابدعوا علماء العرب باستخالص زيوت النباتات بطريقة التقطير‬ ‫مثل استخالص دهن العود وزيت الورد وكذلك استخالص العنبر والمسك من‬ ‫الحيوانات ‪.‬‬ ‫وكانت هذه الطريقة ذات طابع دقيق ومجهود مميز لذلك تميزت العطور العربية‬ ‫بعبقها الخاص وغالء ثمنها بفضل دقة االستخالص والمجهود اليدوي بعيدا عن ما‬ ‫نراه حاليا بآالت حديثه ‪.‬‬ ‫واستطاعت العطور العربية ان تغزو العالم بجمال عبيرها الساحر حتى يومنا هذا‪,‬‬ ‫و ال تستغنى عنها الشركات العالمية المنتجة للعطور عن استخدام الزيوت العربية‬ ‫في تركيبات عطورها‪.‬‬ ‫ومن خالل تخصصي العلمي وحبي وشغفي لعالم العطور ابتدأت تجربتي في‬ ‫تركيب العطور من موادها االولية وكيفية عمل طبقاتها‪.‬‬ ‫الى أن ابتكرت عطور عربية من خالل التجربة والدراسة والمحاولة والخطأ ‪.‬‬ ‫حيث استغرقت التركيبات اربعة سنوات‪ .‬وتمكنت من ابتمار عطرا يمزج بين العبق‬ ‫العربي والعبير االوروبي المميز‪.‬‬

CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

29

RISING TO THE

CHALLENGE

Gill Sherry Having enjoyed a successful 30 year career in insurance, Gill left the UK to move to Kuwait.

She is now a valued member of the CityPages team where she is utilizing her editing and writing skills. In addition to her official role as Group Editor, Gill also contributes with regular interviews, features and reviews.

Instagram: @gsherryq8

D

uring a recent trip to Istanbul, I was fortunate to witness dozens of athletes (plus hundreds of non-athletes) taking part in the Istanbul marathon. It’s not the first time I’ve been a spectator at one of these 26.2 mile events; I’ve cheered on family members in New York, saluted veterans in the UK and congratulated friends in Dubai. But regardless of where I may be watching this marathon spectacle, it’s guaranteed to bring tears to my eyes.

Not only do I find it extremely emotional witnessing the effort, determination and relief on people’s faces, I’m also reminded of exactly how it feels to achieve something so amazing and so momentous after so much hard work.

The lump in my throat was at its most persistent when I caught sight of one particular wheelchair athlete struggling to haul herself up the steep hill leading to the finish line. My attempts to blink away the tears were futile and judging by the cheer that erupted around me, I wasn’t the only one fighting to keep my emotions in check. But it wasn’t only the crowd cheering her on.

Her fellow athletes, young and old, urged her up that hill, along the home straight and over the finish line

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JANUARY, 2016

until she collapsed with exhaustion and obvious relief once that longed-for white line was behind her.

It’s easy to underestimate the dedication required to accomplish such a challenge. It’s not just the physical effort needed to complete the 26.2 mile route, it’s the commitment, discipline and mental strength required to push your body to the limit. The feeling of elation when you finally cross that line, after months of preparation and training, is one you can never forget.

But what possesses people to put themselves through such harrowing, physical pain? It’s not just about keeping fit; there are plenty of other, easier, ways to do that. It’s all about the challenge. It’s about putting yourself to the test and doing something you probably never thought you would be able to do.

I can’t admit to running a marathon, but I have tested my physical and mental strength through cycling and climbing. And the reason for these bright ideas (other than temporary insanity)? Charity. Raising money for charity is never an easy task. Persuading people to part with their hard earned cash is a challenge in itself. So

in order to secure their name on a sponsorship form, it needs to be something pretty special; something they wouldn’t ordinarily expect you to do; and something they will be impressed by when you actually do it.

Losing my father-in-law to Motor Neurone Disease in 2004 was the catalyst which lead to two of the proudest moments of my life.

The first was a 275 mile fundraising cycle challenge from Crystal Palace in London to Reims in France. Nothing too difficult about that I hear you say. How about if I told you I didn’t even own a bicycle when I signed up?

Once equipped with the necessary wheels (although with hindsight, they were more suitable for a playground than a 275 mile road race), I dragged myself out of bed every weekend and, along with my husband, pedaled my way through wind, rain and, on a good day, sunshine. My thighs would burn, my hands would blister, and as for my backside….. let’s just say my bicycle saddle became known as ‘the razor blade’.

I’d like to think I’d trained adequately for the challenge but that didn’t stop my heart beating at a ferocious pace and my stomach tying itself in knots as myself and my fellow cyclists pushed off from Crystal Palace on a grey, wet, September day.

The next five days, quite literally, included blood, sweat and tears – as well as some very choice language! They also resulted in an unbreakable bond with other, likeminded souls who, like me, were totally unprepared

for the almost vertical hills we were faced with on that journey; and who, like me, saw their bicycle saddle as their greatest enemy.

There were times I could quite easily have given up. But it wasn’t just my inner strength and determination that kept me going, it was those likeminded people who knew how important it was to carry on and what it would mean to cross that finish line in the shadow of Reims Cathedral. Thanks to those people (and the constant support of my husband), I kept pedaling, I kept pushing, and with their encouragement, I completed the hardest challenge I had ever faced.

The effects of the grueling physical effort were short lived and, in the height of jubilation, quite easy to forget. But the feelings of deflation upon returning to the UK were a lot more difficult to shake. My days now seemed empty without the need to train and, after the camaraderie born from our shared goal, I missed my new friends.

The need to recapture that intense bond lead to what was to become the most memorable event of my life. In October 2010, along with 39 other MNDA supporters, I nervously stood at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and wondered, not for the first time, whether I would make it to the top. Months of training had ensured I was physically ready for the challenge but ultimately, the mountain would decide if I would reach the summit or not.

The lack of creature comforts and basic sanitation was a challenge in itself but through

that familiar desire and determination to succeed, I found myself rising to the challenge. The altitude, along with the view, was quite literally breathtaking and as the air became thinner, so too did my strength.

More than once, I witnessed a casualty being rushed down the mountain on a stretcher and, more than once, I wondered if this particular challenge would beat me.

But the doubts didn’t last long and with the collective support of my tour guide, charity representatives and fellow climbers (not forgetting the incredible local porters), I made it to Uhuru Peak. I’m not sure I can ever put into words how I felt when I reached the summit or how truly unforgettable the views were. The altitude drained every last ounce of energy from my body and I barely had the strength to pose for a photograph. Despite being deliriously happy, tears were streaming down my face as I sat cold and dazed, 19,341ft above sea level.

But the challenge wasn’t over yet; it was still only half complete. For me, the descent was actually more difficult than the climb. By this time, my knees were screaming in agony, objecting to the months of abuse I’d subjected them to, and my boots were so heavy I could barely lift them off the ground. But the promise of a proper toilet and a hot shower after seven days of ‘basics’ were (almost) all the motivation I needed, and I was back at base before you could say ‘hakuna matata’.

Not only was I proud of myself for climbing the world’s highest free standing mountain, I was proud of the money I’d raised for charity in doing so. I raised a total of 12,133GBP for the Motor Neurone Disease Association as a result of the climb; money which never would have been raised had I not signed up for the challenge.

Charity organizations across the world are constantly seeking volunteers to register for challenges such as these. The majority of people who enter marathons do so to raise money for charity – hence why you often see Bugs Bunny or Spiderman running along with a collection tin. Similarly, most people who sign up to climb mountains, jump from aeroplanes or cycle from one country to another, would never have dreamt of doing so without the involvement of a charity. That surely makes their effort all the more special.

These people aren’t professionals, they’re heroes.

So it’s no surprise I fill up at the sight of runners dragging themselves across a finish line. Not only can I empathize with today’s marathon runners, cycle challengers and mountain climbers, I can also recommend embarking on a major physical challenge. Even if you don’t do it for charity, it will keep you fit, test your mental strength and guarantee new friends along the way. Not forgetting the amazing sense of pride and achievement you reap from your success.

CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

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BEHIND THE SPIRIT OF THE

SEASON S Nadeen Dakkak

Nadeen studied English Literature in Kuwait and England. She's interested in language, literature, film, theater and culture.

o here we are again at this time of year when everything is decorated with red and green and when the Christmas spirit sticks around long after the New Year celebrations. Even in a country like Kuwait where people don't have the luxury of playing with snow, shop windows still display fake snowmen and white cotton, tempting us into more unnecessary winter shopping. It is difficult to imagine what this period's festivities would be like without the snowman figure and the Christmas tree, whose mere existence in a restaurant, a department store, or someone's home, brings joy into the heart. One even wonders whether it is possible to feel the so-called 'Christmas spirit' without these two favored symbols and without the music, advertisements and decorations constantly reminding us that 'Yes, we are in the holiday season'. As for the unlucky ones who decide to miss out on all this and stay at home, TV channels are there to rescue them, showing Christmas and New Year movies every night.

The importance of specific symbols in shaping our experience of universal events is also quite obvious in the Islamic month of Ramadan, an occasion that is of course more widely celebrated in this part of the world.

Anyone who travels to other places during this month knows that Ramadan in Kuwait is completely different from Ramadan in Egypt or in the Levant, and so on.

It may seem funny, but I personally find it difficult to feel the spirit of Ramadan without Vimto, that magical drink which surprisingly loses its good taste after the month is over. Think of the special traditional desserts we only eat in Ramadan like Atayef, or drinks like jellab or amar al-deen. Think too, of all the food-related advertisements and drama TV series that suddenly become part of people's irregular daily routine. In the last few years, companies like Zain, Ooredoo, Qualitynet and others have also started creating special advertisements for the Ramadan season, taking in mind the fact that many more people watch TV during this month.

Considering all of the above, I find it difficult not to ask myself, 'What would it be like to experience Christmas, the New Year, or Ramadan without these effects?' If

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you have ever spent Ramadan in a country where it's not an important occasion, you would perhaps realize that these effects are not simply a minor part of a public celebration that has a fixed meaning.

Rather, they are primary in shaping our experiences, even necessary in defining the way we view and celebrate certain occasions. The advertisements that precede the occasion by many weeks prepare us for it psychologically, and instruct us on how to prepare for it physically – by shopping in the case of Christmas, buying unreasonable amounts of food in advance in the case of Ramadan, and so on. Other effects like Christmas decorations and Ramadan TV series provide these events with specific meanings so that we consciously or unconsciously associate them with each other. In other words, the absence of one or all of these effects may deprive the occasion of its special social meanings and result in our inability to feel its 'spirit'.

So what do we get from all this? I think one point is the importance of being aware of how advertising and certain social customs are involved in our subjective experience of celebrations. They create associations which gradually become representative of historical/ religious ceremonies that do not supposedly require such effects, most of which happen to be irrelevant. This also shows the extent to which our cherished cultural or religious ceremonies have become commercialized by playing on people's beliefs and customs to achieve profit. But to stay away from moralizing this whole issue, I think another important point is the variance in people's ways of celebrating universal occasions, a quality that is mostly appreciated because it opens the space for tolerance and cultural understanding. If the things we associate with an occasion have gradually become meaningful across time as a result of specific circumstances, then this possibly means there is no definitive correct way of celebrating this occasion.

This can be a good way of justifying why the spirit of Christmas, New Year or Ramadan differs from one place to another. And who knows, maybe years from now, each of these occasions might be associated with new things and celebrated differently by future generations.

CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

33

THE JOYS OF BEING A

KARATE MUM P

rior to the summer of 2013 my sole knowledge of karate came from the film ‘The Karate Kid’ not the cool remake with Jaden Smith, but the 1984 original (and some might say the best) with ‘Daniel-san’ and Mr. Miyagi. ‘’Wax on, Wax off” were the words of a generation.

Fast forward two and a half years and karate has become one of the biggest influences on my life. So much so, that on one of those Facebook Apps that tells you your most frequent posted word, mine was ‘karate’.

Ali Stewart Born in Cambridge, England, Ali enjoyed a career in the logistics and safety sector for 15 years.

Following the birth of her son, she switched careers to pursue a life long love for education and teaching. Since moving to Kuwait in 2013, Ali’s interests include fitness, healthy living and running. From her University days she has maintained a passion for world history and creative writing, although thanks to her son, she can also now consider herself quite the expert on all things ‘Marvel super heroes’ and Karate related.

My son, Zachary, was five when we moved to Kuwait and with school not due to start for a few months, we were keen to find fun, positive activities to occupy his time. I’m sure many parents will be familiar with my child’s then favourite hobby of running everywhere with constant imaginary fighting moves (why go round something, when you can go through or over it?). It was Zachary who asked if there was a karate club in Kuwait; a request I suspect more born out of a fascination with the Ninja Turtles and Power Rangers than anything else.

There are many excellent clubs and locations offering martial arts and sporting activities in Kuwait, but I would like to share how one of these has changed the life of my son and our family. That club is the Japanese Karate Association (JKA) of Kuwait. When researching trial sessions I was drawn to their international accreditation and that they were the only group officially recognised by the Japanese Government for the promotion of karate in Kuwait.

I thought we would go to the trial and that maybe it would be a way to pass the time before term started.

I underestimated both my son and the club. Three sessions a week, four tournaments, four medals, six exams, seven belt colours, many new friends and countless practise hours later, here is what we have experienced and learnt:

Karate brings people together In the absence of family and friends from home, the connections you make socially are important and rewarding. Despite being one of the few western families at the club we were made to feel welcome from day one. Any language barriers are swept aside when you share a common goal of wishing people success; whether it be in an exam or tournament, or just mastering a tricky move for the first time.

We were lucky in 2014 to attend the Inter-Gulf JKA Tournament in Bahrain, with representatives from other Gulf countries and a training camp with Japanese masters who flew in for the event. Travelling and staying together is a great way to forge new friendships. It didn’t matter what faith you were, what language you spoke, what clothes you wore – there is

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an international language in wanting to see your team perform to their very best. Seeing people have tears of pride in their eyes as their child or loved one performs well is priceless (and yes one of those was my Scottish husband, who is absolutely not known for his outbursts of emotion!). When my son lost in the final of the Inter-Gulf tournament, we were not sad but proud and the first to congratulate the winner who was our friend and team mate.

This is the way of karate – it is about respect.

The child development benefits of karate Karate has given us far more than we ever expected. We have seen first-hand how karate builds concentration, focus, patience, discipline, self-control and resilience. Every training session or kumite (fight) begins and ends with Rei (courtesy). It teaches all participants to respect others and to develop self-control – there is no first attack in karate.

The philosophy of JKA for children is based on three elements: •Chiiku – mental development •Tokuiku – moral development •Taiiku – physical development Physically, practise can be tough as you move through the belt colours, but the benefits of building strong flexible muscles and raising fitness levels in a time of increasing childhood obesity is to be welcomed. Likewise, in a world where people are quick to criticize ‘the youth of today’, the courtesy and respect that is shown

between master and student, student and student is heart-warming. We have witnessed many examples of adults and children helping with practise, and congratulating someone even if they themselves did not succeed at that time. My son would not have achieved any of his individual belts without the help of his karate friends.

It’s all inclusive Karate is open to all ages, boys and girls, men and women. Everyone is welcome. I can’t think of many activities where you will see such a diverse age range catered for at the same time. There are mixed classes, as well as female only classes available for those who wish to train separately. Membership and training per hour costs less than a cup of coffee.

One training session a week is open to friends and family to watch the sparring (Kumite).

I won’t lie, watching your child take a blow is hard, but individuals are always matched with someone of their own age and abilities, and no one has to take part if they do not wish to. Most people are desperate to join in, and there is real camaraderie amongst competitors. In addition, new members get the opportunity to watch the black belts and Sensei’s spar, and these are awesome to watch. You can look around the room and see everyone transfixed, aspiring to be better and to learn.

Role modelling All Sensei’s and instructors are fully trained and accredited, role modelling all the values

that karate holds dear. Everyone who joins – from the oldest to the youngest – enjoys their training with a black belt instructor. Emphasis is as much on learning to listen, helping others to master what you have learnt and having the confidence to try, as it is on any karate moves.

With infinite levels of patience, the coaching team work tirelessly to share their passion with all members. As a result, the role modelling extends beyond the official instructors to include all those who develop and grow at the club. It has been an absolute privilege to watch many of the children and young adults develop during our time, taking on different levels of responsibility as they move through the belt levels. Seeing some of those who wore green and blue belts when we first joined, now wearing a black belt and learning how to judge kumite and coach others really inspires the next generation. Watching my son, the first time he was asked to demonstrate a set of moves for new members was amazing; he felt ten feet tall.

I am hopeful that this love of physical exercise, teamwork, camaraderie and respect will be life skills that stay with our family for the future. The fact that it is our son’s passion, hasn’t meant that my husband and I have not benefited enormously also. What we have learnt is that if you make the effort to try new things that you are interested in – whatever that may be – it can be a great way to make friends and settle into a new community. For my family it was karate, but looking at all the different groups offering activities in Kuwait it could just as easily be swimming, running, painting, cooking, soccer... Why not make 2016 the year you try something new? We are so lucky that the opportunities here in Kuwait really are endless. How exciting is that?!

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ICEBERGS IN

PARIS

John MacArthur John MacArthur was born in England, but has Celtic ancestry, so loves to sing. Abandoning his choral training, he sings songs of love and loss, owning several antique acoustic guitars. He has degrees in physics, chemistry and mathematics, has studied theology and business management, so, in fine nomadic tradition, he can call several universities home.

After seven years in Kuwait, he 'retired' and laughs at himself every morning, commuting between his Paris island home and country house in rural France where he lives with his wife, a food writer and stylist, and, perhaps soon, a dog, should he be allowed one. Much to her dismay, he is thinking of taking up the mandolin. He has written for various publications worldwide on whatever happens to catch his imagination.

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JANUARY, 2016

M

ost cannot now deny that our species, destructive as it is, has started a clock, and the arrow of time only faces in one direction, towards the future. Having set global warming in irreversible motion, it is we, in our day, who, for the first time in the history of our species, are facing the uncomfortable possibility of ecological catastrophe. Almost everyone acknowledges that we are in a crisis. Paris welcomed the world recently for the UN conference on climate change, a long awaited sequel to Copenhagen in 2009, when the magic limit of no more than a 20C in global temperature rise by 2100 was agreed upon. But, this unique environmental emergency which we now face is not only a challenge for science, politics and imagination, but also a crisis for our philosophy and habitual thinking, confronting us as it so brutally does, with a problem that seems to

defy not only our control but also our understanding.

It would be too easy to make the case for ecological self-denial, reduction in carbon footprint and all the accompanying hair shirts that are so fashionable amongst the battalions of eco-warriors. But, how much is really ‘enough’?

Olafur Eliasson is a Dano-Icelandic artist in his late forties who has worked with architects, mathematicians, authors and landscapers who lend fuel to his large scale ideas; his Berlin studio is a laboratory for spatial research. His career and formidable international reputation is based on a number of large-scale pieces including The Weather Project, an installation created in 2003, which filled the gigantic, coffin-like open space of the Turbine Hall in London's Tate Modern gallery.

Olafur used humidifiers to create a fine mist in the air via a mixture of sugar and water, as well as a circular

disc made up of hundreds of monochromatic lamps radiating yellow light. The ceiling of the hall was covered with a vast mirror, in which visitors could see themselves as tiny black shadows against a confusing and alien background of orange light. Many of them, seemingly intoxicated with their own narcissism as they saw themselves elevated into the sky, responded to this exhibition by lying on their backs and waving their arms and legs in the air, interacting with the installation.

In early October last year, on a clear, windless morning, a small tugboat set out from the harbour of Nuuk, in southern Greenland, in search of exactly twelve large icebergs. They were harvested for an installation especially commissioned for the climate conference in Paris called “Ice Watch,” by Olafur Eliasson and the geologist Minik Rosing. The installation, a circle of icebergs each with a circumference of twenty metres, each one representing a clock numeral, was to be installed at the Place du Panthéon. The tugboat was captained by Kuupik Kleist, the former Prime Minister of Greenland, an affable man in his late fifties born and raised north of Nuuk. “Ninety per cent of our country is covered by ice. It is a great part of our national identity. We follow the international discussion, of course, but to every Greenlander, just by looking out the window at home, it is obvious to us that something dramatic is happening.”

The idea of “Ice Watch” is twofold: the ice is arranged like a watch, or a clock face, to indicate the passing of time; and, in real time, observers will be able to watch the ice melt; a powerful, if temporary, metaphor.

Eliasson explained. "A circle is like a compass. It leaves navigation to the people who are inside it. It is a mistake to think that the work is itself the circle of ice; it is the space it invents or creates because of its very existence. And it is on a street in Paris - and a street in Paris can’t be more important than it is right now. We all feel that strongly.”

In Greenland, sailing out in the Davis Strait, past Nuuk Harbour, the ice Kleist was looking for wasn’t just any kind of ice but icebergs made of compressed snow - snow that has fallen for tens of thousands of years which have broken off from the glacier, in a process called ‘calving’. “We can only take what nature gives us,” Eliasson says. “For Paris, the ice gave us big chunks.” The largest chunks of ice displayed in Paris are just short of ten tonnes, which is about the size of three American saloon cars piled on top of each other. Minik Rosing, whose work on photosynthesis in the Greenland sea beds reset the date for the beginning of life on Earth, from 2.8 billion years ago to 3.7 billion, explains: “Inside the iceberg, you see snow layers in sequence as you go back in time. Because it is compressed, the air between the snowflakes that fell thousands of years ago is trapped in tiny bubbles.”

Once Kleist and his crew had lassoed the ice calves, they were dragged back into the harbour, lifted up by heavy-duty cranes, stored in icehouses, then transferred by container ship to Denmark. Ice is like glass; it is both brittle and fragile so its transportation had to be swift and free from hard knocks. The transporters needed to be sure that the ice remained intact, their primary objective being to forestall the calamity of finding that when the containers were opened, all that was left were thousands of ice cubes. The artist was waiting in Copenhagen to see them prior to their ten-hour road trip to Paris. When he opened the truck, the ice shone, green and dark, shimmering. The centre of an ice cube may be at a temperature of minus twenty Celsius. The inside of this vast bulk of geologic time would be considerably lower, ice being a relatively poor conductor of heat. Handling it is deceptive; apparently one has a sense of touching an object thousands of years old, and our very interaction with it will change it forever. Such an interaction is, of course, the whole point; we become participants, actually engaging in the process.

Some of the questions that are preoccupying Eliasson in his work include: "What is the relationship between data and cognition? How is data translated into doing? Thinking into feeling? Are we more likely to act on knowledge or emotion?" These are deeply, urgently relevant

ideas, infusing the debate less with real ‘science’ but with a philosophy of co-existence. Timothy Morton, a British philosopher whom Eliasson calls “our new Arctic friend,” has been part of the ongoing conversations Eliasson likes to have around his art installations. Morton believes in what he describes as Object Oriented Ontology (O.O.O.), which suggests that, in order to realign our relationship with the planet, we must think of a plurality of perspectives - an almost religious worldview which has its origins perhaps in the Nordic legends from which the objects themselves sprang. He writes: “In our contemporary ecological emergency, there’s a lot of data, but at this point we’re still dumping ecological data on ourselves. It’s not helping."

He continues, "We are indeed swamped with data. Olafur is putting pieces of ice there and saying, ‘Let’s shift the paradigm and try to start a conversation.’ ” It seems such a very long time ago now when the data dump actually began to gather momentum. Al Gore's iconic movie "An Inconvenient Truth" first educated us all about the science, the history and possible consequences of global warming. Since then, almost ten years' worth of snow has fallen on the polar ice sheets - literally a drop in the ocean.

But, greenhouse gas emissions continue, year on year, to rise, slowly and inexorably.

There is an irony here, perhaps lost even to the artists who created the Panthéon installation. Even as they harvested the calves for the exhibition, there remained the possibility of a collapse of a major ice sheet in Greenland which could raise global sea levels by over six metres, flooding coastal areas and producing a hundred million refugees. Melt water from Greenland, because of its lower salinity, could then slow down or even stop the ocean currents that keep northern Europe warm and quickly trigger dramatic local cooling there.

The Paris ice will melt more quickly today than it would have done a hundred years ago, perhaps, so it seems fitting to leave the last word to the man who not only raised one of the first red flags but almost found his way into the Oval Office. The concluding moments of the film are sobering. Gore reminded us that "Each one of us is a cause of global warming, but each one of us can make choices to change that with the things we buy, the electricity we use, the cars we drive; we can make choices to bring our individual carbon emissions to zero. The solutions are in our hands; we just have to have the determination to make it happen. We have everything that we need, except for political will. But…the will to act is a renewable resource."

Such a will, kick-started in Paris, aspirational as it is and feasible as it might become, translated into global co-operation, may yet avert disaster.

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Photo credits: Jassem Abdulrahim @

STADIUM OF CHAMPIONS

I

f you live in Kuwait, it was impossible not to be aware of the official opening of the new Jaber Al-Ahmad Stadium in Ardhiyah last month. Previously dubbed the ‘ghost stadium’, because of the length of time it has sat redundant since completion, the launch of the multi-purpose venue was a welcome sight for all those involved in its opening, as well as the thousands of ticket holders who queued to see the spectacle. Images from the opening event flooded social media sights for days afterwards and the city was awash with tales of an unforgettable evening.

The inaugural football match, which took place on 18th December, saw the Kuwait All Star team take on the International All Stars in the Champions Challenge Cup. The highlight for many was the appearance of David Beckham who was without doubt, the star of the visiting team.

Beckham provided the assist for the opening goal scored by Luis Figo in the 16th minute; but their lead was short lived, cancelled out two minutes later by Kuwait’s Al-Hajri.

The final score was 4-2 to the home team with Al-Ansari, Al-Anezi and Yousef Nasser scoring the other goals. Other players to grace the pitch for the International team were Robert Pires (scorer of their second goal), former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher, Carles Puyol, Alessandro Nesta, goalkeeping favourites Jens Lehmann and David James, Andriy Shevchenko, Del Piero, Brazilians Ronaldinho and Roberto Carlos, BeIn Spots pundit Michel Salgado, Gianluca Zambrotta, Deco, and former Manchester United star Dwight Yorke. They may not have been as young and as fit as they once were, but they delighted the crowd

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JANUARY, 2016

nonetheless and under the watchful eye of their coach, Fabio Capello, played with the competitive edge and flair you would expect of such footballing legends.

Other names on the Kuwait All Star team sheet included Khaled AlRashidi, Musaed Neda, Ali Maqseed, Hussain Hakim, Mohammad Jaragh and Abdulaziz Al Mashan.

The match was performed in the presence of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah who announced the official opening, and His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who witnessed the historic event together with other officials and members of the public in the impressive 60,000 capacity stadium. It was a particularly proud moment for Minister of Information and Minster of State for Youth Affairs in Kuwait, Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Homoud Al-Sabah, who addressed the crowd at the momentous occasion.

In addition to the exhibition game, spectators were treated to an opening ceremony which included a spectacular firework and laser show and a display by local singers and performers. Proceedings were expertly hosted by the popular commentator Khaled AL Harban.

The event was also enjoyed by thousands of TV viewers and was heralded as a huge success for Kuwait. Let’s hope this was the first of many major events at the stadium and that Kuwait’s ‘white elephant’ has finally come to life.

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JANUARY, 2016

Photo credits: Jassem Abdulrahim @

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Photo credits: Jassem Abdulrahim @

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JANUARY, 2016

‫حلمك ينتظرك‬ ‫انهض وأسس مشروعك الخاص‬

‫روال سمور‬

‫محترفة في مجال تطوير الموارد‬ ‫البشرية ومدربة معتمدة لتطوير‬ ‫القادة ‪MBA, PMP, CIPD, CM, CBCM‬‬

‫‪Rula Sammur‬‬

‫‪HR Professional and Certified‬‬ ‫‪Coach for Leaders‬‬ ‫‪MBA, PMP, CIPD, CM, CBCM‬‬ ‫‪Instgram: @Rulasammur‬‬

‫هل ترغب في قضاء وقت أطول مع عائلتك؟ هل ترغب‬ ‫في زيادة دخلك؟ هل ترغب في استثمار وقتك بطريقة‬ ‫أمثل؟ هل عندك مواهب ومهارات قد تكون بذرة لنجاح‬ ‫جميل؟ مصمم ملتزم مقاوم و تحب المخاطرة؟ إذن‬ ‫أنت تملك أسس جيدة لبدء مشروعك الخاص‪ .‬لماذا‬ ‫وكيف؟ معا سنجيب على هذه األسئلة وسنتعرف على‬ ‫مديرك الجديد‪ :‬أنت!‬ ‫‪ .1‬حدد دوافعك‪ :‬لماذا أريد بدء مشروعي الخاص؟ نسرد‬ ‫بعض من األسباب والدوافع‪:‬‬

‫‪‬أريد زيادة دخلي وترك ميراث لعائلتي‬ ‫‪‬أريد قضاء وقت أطول مع عائلتي‬ ‫‪‬سئمت الوظيفة الروتينية والسلبية من حولي‬ ‫‪‬املك المهارة المطلوبة ممن حولي‬ ‫‪‬أشعر أنني أملك شيئا أقدمه‬ ‫‪‬أريد أن أكون مدير نفسي‪.‬‬ ‫قد يكون جوابك قد يكن أحد أو كل ماذكر أو قد تضيف‬ ‫دوافعك الخاصة‪.‬‬ ‫‪ .2‬قم بواجبك‪ :‬افهم مديرك الجديد‪.‬‬

‫‪‬جد وحرر شغفك‪ :‬ماهو شغفك الطفولي؟ ماالذي‬ ‫تستمتع بالقيام به وال تشعر بالوقت؟‬ ‫‪‬اسرد مواردك التي تمتلكها من حيث مواهبك‪,‬‬ ‫مهاراتك‪ ,‬أصدقاؤك‪ ,‬عائلتك وكل ما هو ايجابي‬ ‫لمشروعك‪ ،‬الخ‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬اذكر ما قد تواجهه من معوقات من حيث الوقت‪,‬‬ ‫الموارد‪ ,‬منافسة السوق‪ ,‬مهارات بحاجة لتطوير الخ‪.‬‬

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‫‪ .3‬ابدأ صغيرا بخطواتك كبيرا بفكرتك‪ :‬احتفظ دائما‬ ‫بالفكرة والهدف األساسي في مخيلتك‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬ارسم مشروعك! نعم‪ ,‬ارسمه على ورقة أو جد صورة‬ ‫تمثله في المجالت والكتب واحتفظ بها‪ .‬انظر لها من‬ ‫وقت آلخر‬ ‫‪‬أكتب خطة مشروع تفصيلية بالمهام والمسؤوليات‬ ‫والخطوات والتواريخ النهائية لما تريد تحققه‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬حدد ‪ 10‬دقائق في اليوم حتي تقترب من هدفك‬ ‫كل يوم‪ .‬هذا الوقت مقدس اعتبره موعدا هاما مع‬ ‫مستقبلك وال تخلف بهذا الموعد أبدا‪.‬‬ ‫‪ .4‬طور من مهاراتك‪ :‬ما كان "ممتازا" في األمس هو‬ ‫"مقبول" اليوم!‬ ‫‪‬اقرأ‪ ,‬ابحث وطور من مهاراتك فالعالم اليوم هو‬ ‫مكتبة كبيرة مفتاحها كبسة زر‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬جالس الناجحين وتعلم منهم وساعد من يضع‬ ‫قدمه على أول الطريق‪ .‬كن دوما تلميذا ومعلما في‬ ‫نفس الوقت‪.‬‬ ‫‪ .5‬قس تقدمك‪ ,‬تعلم من أخطائك واحتفل بانجازاتك‬ ‫الصغيرة‪:‬‬

‫‪‬حدد موعدا أسبوعا مع نفسك لمتابعة تطورك وفقا‬ ‫لخطتك التفصيلية‪ .‬كن حازما مع نفسك أيها المدير!‬ ‫‪‬احتفل بانجازات كل مرحلة‪.‬‬ ‫خطوات بسيطة ستساعدك على تحقيق حلم طالما‬ ‫راودك‪ .‬فالدنيا ليست لمن جلس في الظل!‬ ‫لنقرأ معا‪ :‬كتاب موصى بقراءته‪:‬‬

‫‪Making a living without a job, winning ways for‬‬ ‫‪creating work that you love. Barbara Winter.‬‬

AROUND THE WORLD WITH

A BIG BIRD

Paul Tunbridge A professional Facilities Manager from England, and with work experience across mainland Europe before arriving in Kuwait in 2007 Paul's interests include architecture and gardening as well as creative writing and the arts in general.

F

or more than fifty years I have enjoyed celebrating Christmas the traditional way.

Always hoping for snowfall on Christmas morning (but rarely getting that wish fulfilled); choosing, buying and wrapping gifts for friends and family; writing ‘the annual letter’ and sending greetings cards (though mostly online these days); putting up and dressing the Christmas tree; baking Mince Pies and other seasonal treats; joining together with friends to sing Christmas carols; going to the theatre to watch a Pantomime (a very British institution!); listening to the Queen’s Christmas message; playing board and party games; attending the midnight service at Church on Christmas Eve; opening gifts on Christmas Day morning; overeating and then falling asleep on the sofa in front of the television……. and so the list goes on.

Of course, traditions are often created differently within different countries and cultures, whilst some

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JANUARY, 2016

are the same worldwide, and others translated in slightly different ways. And they also adapt with the passing of time. So, whilst I am happy to embrace the local culture and traditions of wherever I am living at any given time, my personal love of Christmas is still rooted in the memories of my British Christmases.

Around the globe, traditional Christmas food has developed in accordance with local taste over the years. For me, however, Christmas will always be about the ‘classic’ roast turkey lunch with all the accompanying trimmings: roast potatoes, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, carrots, herb-based stuffing, rich gravy and cranberry sauce! Depending on where I am and who I’m with, various other treats may also end up on my (oversized) plate. Yorkshire puddings are always welcome; red cabbage with apple was a favourite when I was in the Netherlands; and my father always liked a big dollop of bread sauce on the side!

I think it’s pretty well known that turkeys tend to be much larger than most other commonly eaten poultry products, and certainly larger than the chickens that are so often roasted for family lunch at the weekend. My mother used to buy a relatively small bird but, even so, there was always plenty of deliciously succulent breast meat to slice for the main meal - and plenty left over to feed a family of four for several more days. It was a running joke in our house every year: ”What’s for dinner today, mum?”

“Guess!” ”Turkey?”

I’m quite sure it’s the same in every house for several days after Christmas! But mum always served it to us in different ways. On Christmas night we would have sandwiches filled with slices of cold turkey and some cranberry sauce; the following day our plates would be filled with more slices of cold turkey (and it really is quite delicious when cold) accompanied by croquette potatoes and baked beans (Heinz, naturally!); and over the next few days we’d have turkey in a white sauce served over rice; turkey in a gravy sauce served with mashed potato and vegetables; curried turkey, and so on.

For me, the ritual of post-Christmas turkey meals is an essential part of the celebration. For many years, I would actually buy a much larger bird than really necessary – usually a 12 or 14 kg bird that would be a challenge to fit into my oven – but this meant I would be able to enjoy the leftovers (courtesy of the freezer) for many meals across the following three months. On the Eve of the big meal I would roast the bird, then let it rest before carving. Once I’d sliced as much as possible, I’d get my hands dirty by pulling off the rest of the meat from the bones until I was left with a big pile of pulled turkey on one side, and a bare carcass on the other. I could then dispose of the unwanted bones and carcass, package the meat to freeze, wrap the slices to be served the next day, and clear the kitchen to be ready for the vegetable prepping next morning. Organised, huh?

Thus, after December 25th I can get creative in the kitchen and figure out how many ways I can serve my turkey. I still enjoy my cold turkey sandwiches, and also now make a Christmas pizza each year, using a tomato and mozzarella base topped with leftover turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce. Nowadays there are many books and websites with an abundance of recipes to use that leftover turkey, and I had been tempted to provide you here with a list of ‘1001 ways to use up your turkey’, but of course you are easily able to find these for yourselves on the internet or in the bookstore.

I then realised, that in the quest to be adventurous with our leftovers, and in an era where there are so many influences on our cookery experiences, we tend to make a culinary world tour. Using turkey as the main ingredient, we inject the flavours and cooking styles from a variety of continents and countries. One of my friends entertained me last week and served up a Turkey Korma Curry, rich in Indian spices. Of course there are many different Indian-inspired curries in which to combine turkey. Alternatively, you might opt for sensory travel to the Far East for a Turkey Green Thai Curry. Whilst thinking of the Far East, perhaps Sweet and Sour Turkey on a bed of steamed rice might sound more appealing, or Stir Fried Turkey with Oriental vegetables and noodles, or a simple Egg-Fried Rice with Turkey? If like me, you have a penchant for Italian cuisine, but my Christmas Pizza doesn’t exactly rock your taste-buds, then maybe some turkey meatballs on a bed of tagliatelle with either a cream or tomato-based sauce and a sprinkling of parmesan would give you a tasty Italian fix. On a similar principle of using fresh turkey that’s been put through the mincer, you could always head to America for a turkey-based meatloaf, or make some great turkey burgers!

And so my Christmas tradition not just remains intact but is developing on a global level. I can tour the world on just one bird and invite you to try the same.

Is your mouth watering? Are you feeling inspired? There’s only another eleven months to go.....

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PERRYHAN El-Ashmawi “…doing what you love most in life is technically living your dream” Perryhan El-Ashmawi believes inspiration finds you, even when you’re not looking for it. Originally inspired by her grandmother, Perryhan now embraces whatever comes her way and as a result, shares her emotions through her artwork.

Please introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m of Egyptian roots but born and raised in Bahrain. I then moved to study in Montréal, Canada to pursue my passion for Fine Arts. After receiving my BA degree, I then dedicated my time to creating artworks and participating in any art opportunity that came my way.

What inspired you to become an artist?

Art has always been a favorite subject of mine since I was young. But mainly I think it’s due to my grandmother’s influence. She is an artist as well. My grandmother studied and produced art, but she didn’t get the chance to turn it into a career. Seeing her painting when I was young inspired me to produce my own artworks because I was so amazed by her skill and passion for it.

Tell us about your education.

I received my BA degree from Concordia University with a Major in Painting and Drawing. I feel that going to art school had a big impact on my work and career. It gave me the opportunity to practice and learn different styles of art. It allowed me to discover new techniques, while also enhancing my own skills. Attending an art school opened the door for me to meet other creative minds and art enthusiasts.

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JANUARY, 2016

How would you describe your art?

My art takes a lot of influence from our popular culture. I take inspiration from graphic illustrative art as well as the urban expressions found in graffiti. The artistic style that I developed reflects my traditional, Middle Eastern background as well as my Western tendencies.

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What ideas do you want to express through your art?

It’s important to me to share emotion through my artworks. I’m happy being able to create something pleasing to the eye, but I’m even more satisfied creating something that sparks an inner feeling for the viewer.

What type of artists/art inspires you?

I feel inspiration comes to you, even when you’re not seeking it. You gain inspiration doing the things you love most in life, and also by being around the people you care about. When you find yourself happy, that means you've unlocked your full potential in achieving something you didn't think was possible. I try to always embrace whatever comes my way, because I might discover something that either sparks a new idea or becomes the driving force to reach an accomplishment.

How would you describe the current state of the art sector here in the Middle East? What is it like being a young artist here?

Art in the Middle East has grown bigger and more appreciated in recent years. Being an artist is not an easy career choice, but thankfully our society has become more supportive towards the art scene. Nowadays, people have more freedom to express themselves creatively, and that holds a big part for our future.

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JANUARY, 2016

What is your favorite medium?

Oil paints have always been my favorite, but I try not to limit my options. Sometimes I experiment with new mediums, which I can incorporate into oil painting, giving it a unique effect.

Can you describe your painting process? Is there a particular mood you need to be in to deliver such a large body of work?

Painting does require a certain mood yes, but it always changes your mood in a very positive way. I lose track of time when I find myself painting. The energy grabs you physically and mentally, in such a way that is therapeutic.

When was the last time your artistic view changed?

The more you practice your work, the more it evolves. I think as a person becomes more mature, their art changes along the way as well.

How do you come up with the name for each series of work?

Can you briefly explain the concept behind each series?

Each series goes by a different theme, but all under the same artistic representation of painted figures and faces. I find the human face to be engaging because I feel it expresses so much emotion. Portraits to me are very intriguing but I always want to develop an artistic style that enables me to enhance the painting’s aesthetic look. As a result, I developed the skill of layering, helping me create a more contemporary

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JANUARY, 2016

and post-modern approach to painting portraits.

How long does it typically take to finish a canvas?

It really depends on the size of the artwork. I’d say probably between two and four weeks.

What is your ultimate dream as far as art is concerned?

Every artist’s dream is to gain international exposure. However, when it all comes down to it, I’m happy as long as I know I’m staying true to my work. I’m just thankful that I was able to choose it as a career path, because doing what you love most in life is technically living your dream.

Where have you exhibited your work so far?

I’m thankful that I have been able to showcase my work in cities such as Montreal, Manama, Dubai and Mykonos. I participated in both solo and group exhibitions. I was also fortunate in showcasing at The Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition for two consecutive years, held at the Bahrain National Museum How do online platforms influence the way you expose your work?

It's helpful in a way, because it’s a matter of marketing yourself and exposing your work to the public. When there is strong exposure to the public, it also allows artists to grow and evolve. But even more so, it attracts a bigger and diverse community of art enthusiast.

What can we expect next from Perryhan?

My plan is to always keep creating new works and taking on new opportunities in the art scene. I’m going to stay truthful to what I do always. I love my job and I’m so thankful for that every day.

And finally, your message for us at CityPages magazine: I want to thank CityPages for this kind opportunity for featuring my art in their magazine. I hope looking at these pages will leave you with a positive note, as it does for me.

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THE DARK PAST OF PEREGRINE SPODE

Peregrine Spode

I

Dentally challenged. Still single.

t might come as something of a surprise, brethren, to learn that Spode’s ancestry is not English blue blood, as no doubt you had all supposed. Well, some of it is, but you have to go back rather a long way.

There was a rather distressing incident with a maid to the Duke of Argyll in the eighteenth century, which the family tends to rather gloss over, also great-great-great grandfather had more of an eye for a well-turned ankle than modesty permits me to relate. But, no. Many of us, fed up with eating sheep intestines, wearied by winds howling through the glen, tired of the dirty, rain-sodden plaids of our forebears and in search of fame, fortune and a decent meal, turned our weathered faces Southwards, to cast in our lot with the Sassenach. Roughly translated, this means we came to England. We took the King’s shilling, becoming the most feared troops of the Napoleonic Wars, causing the

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bowels of the weak-kneed and pusillanimous French to dramatically loosen, as a thousand kilted Highlanders screaming for blood were unleashed upon them.

Rivalry between the Four Nations has always been intense – it’s the same everywhere in the world; we all hate our immediate neighbours or think they’re stupid, ugly, ill-mannered or poor. By way of example, last year, scientists in Wiltshire, after having dug to a depth of several hundred metres, apparently found traces of copper wire dating back a thousand years and came to the conclusion that their ancestors already had a telephone network more than a millennium ago. Not to be outdone, in the weeks that followed, Scottish scientists dug to a depth of over fifteen hundred metres in a glen near the eastern face of Ben Lomond.

A piece in the Glasgow Herald read: “Scottish archaeologists have found traces of 2000 year old fibre-optic cable and have concluded

that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech digital communications network a thousand years earlier than the English.” Only a week later, Irish newspapers reported the following: “After digging as deep as eighteen hundred meters in a County Mayo bog, Irish scientists have found absolutely nothing.

They, therefore, have concluded that the Irish discovered wireless technology.” The Welsh, being sensible folk, continued to use the village postman for their correspondence.

We came with our own little ways. We taught the English golf. Especially how to drive two hundred and fifty metres in the pouring rain, holding an umbrella. We gave Harris Tweed to the world. King Edward VII, spotting his old friend Lord Harris wearing one of his own tweed jackets in the rather formal Royal Enclosure at Ascot, was recorded as remarking “Mornin’ Harris. Goin’ rattin’?”

In more recent times, we always bought

something in the store in case people thought we’d been shoplifting if we left empty-handed.

We kept handfuls of small change in our pockets, to jingle just in case folk might think we weren’t prepared to pay our share of the restaurant bill.

The Scots were great inventors, for which many in the Gulf have cause to give thanks.

Alexander Graham Bell, whose white beard must have made him quite popular at this time of year as a surrogate Santa, is credited with having patented the first working telephone. He could never have imagined, however, that people would attempt to use one while driving a car. John Logie Baird built what was to become the world's first working television set using an old hatbox and a pair of scissors, some darning needles, a few bicycle light lenses, a used tea chest, sealing wax and glue. No, this is not a poet's licence; these were, apparently, the actual items he used. Genius will brook no setbacks and had these not been available to him, no doubt he would have cobbled together something else.

The world’s greatest recycler, it would seem.

Not bad for 1926. Baird once visited the Daily Express newspaper to promote his invention.

The news editor was terrified and he was quoted by one of his staff as saying: "For God's sake, go down to reception and get rid of a lunatic who's down there. He says he's got a machine for seeing by wireless! Watch him, he may have a razor on him." Baird must have reassured him, presumably, since we've got al-Jazeera and the Discovery Channel.

Secondly, we all know about driving in Kuwait.

What a pleasant, stress-free experience it is, thanks in part to another Scotsman, John MacAdam who pioneered the inventions which ultimately led to the surface on which we risk our lives on a daily basis.

heard it before or you should seriously consider buying a lottery ticket this week since you're obviously a very lucky person. Anyone who has ever been to a St Patrick's Day celebration will almost certainly have seen, or perhaps even heard this famous phrase meaning 'a hundred thousand welcomes'. Ceud is pronounced "kay-u(d)t" with just the hint of a "d" in there, mile is pronounced something like "meelih" and fàilte is pronounced "falsh-uh". With each of these "ih" and "uh" sounds a bit like when an Australian rugby player expels air after being pounded in the ribs by a very large Scottish shoulder. You're allowed to do that in rugby. You're not allowed to do it in Marina Mall, tempting as it is to push through the crowds. And, a word to the Antipodean reader -if you think we’ve forgotten the quarterfinals of the Webb Ellis Cup this year, be advised, the Blues forgive but we do not forget.

Before you get too impressed by my Gàidhlig pronunciation skills, however, I have to confess that I can only pronounce ceud mile fàilte correctly - now - because I asked more than half a dozen different people. After they’d all stopped laughing, one of them eventually phoned a florist in Inverness and got the definitive answer from her 13-year-old niece who has been taking Gàidhlig lessons since she was five. You see, although Gàidhlig is thought of as the traditional language of Scotland and although it was indeed the language of most of us for hundreds of years, according to a recent census less than 1.2% of the population (less than sixty thousand from a total population of just over five million) can now speak Scottish Gàidhlig. Just your luck

of course, when you happen to get lost in the wilds of Aberdeenshire on a freezing January night and the only person able to help is a septuagenarian shepherd who doesn’t speak English.

Compare this to a separate study carried out in Edinburgh schools which suggests that around 1.54% of the population can speak Urdu, the same percentage speak French, 1.26% speak Chinese, and 1.12% speak Punjabi, and you start to get a clearer perspective not only of the pluralistic nature of modern Scotland but also of Gàidhlig's position as a (very) minority language. This last has my Chieftain, The Editor, whom we all know and love, blowing bubbles in his office because he doesn’t do numbers very well and percentages make him queasy. Especially to two decimal places. So, shuffling on a bit, I’ll try to get to the point, if I can find one.

That same study identified a total of almost sixty languages other than English currently in use in Scotland, the most common being Lowland Scots or "Lallans" at a little under three percent. It would be fitting then, since I welcomed you in Gàidhlig, to close with a short lesson in Lowland Scots. Where "reek" means "to smoke", "yir" means "your", "lang" means "long" and "lum" means "chimney", I'll leave you with the immortal words of an ancestor of mine, mercifully long since deceased: "Lang may yir lum reek." Then, with a wee smile, " wi' other folk's coal."

Until next time.

We also brought our own language. Not the strange, glottal dialect that people who need support from lampposts in Sauchiehall Street speak on a Saturday night, incomprehensible as it may be, but a real and ancient Celtic tongue shared in no small part by our brothers over the water.

The Gàidhlig; never, children, does one dare to say Gàidhlig without the definite article, is notoriously difficult for English speakers because it's full of false friends: letters and combinations of letters which you think you know how to pronounce but which are completely different from English. Even the English translation “Gaelic” is a problem.

You pronounce the word Gàidhlig (Scottish Gaelic) like "garlic" without the "r" but the Gaelic peoples are "the Gaels", pronounced to sound like a weather forecast for high winds, and the phrase "Irish Gaelic" takes this latter pronunciation too.

Over the water, as we say, Ceud mile fàilte is a traditional Gàidhlig greeting and if you pronounced it correctly then either you've CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

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TOP FIVE ‘MUSTS’ FOR

MIAMI

Jim West By day a Cyber Security Expert, and by night an award winning author of the Magicae Mathematica series. Jim has lived in Kuwait since 2007, and is excited to be part of the CityPages team.

M

iami (aka Magic City) is home to the glamorous South Beach and famous for its colourful art deco buildings, white sand, luxurious hotels and trendsetting nightclubs. Many popular TV shows and movies are set here, from CSI Miami to the Birdcage with Robin Williams. So pack a bag and don’t forget your dancing shoes!

1- The MUST see…to really get a taste of the Cuban influences in Miami, head to Little Havana (aka CalleOcho) on SW 8th Street. Here, you can take in all the flavours and vibrant Cuban culture without having to actually go to Cuba itself.

2. The MUST eat…if you are in the Magic City of Miami why not dine where Frank Sinatra and many other celebrities have dined? Try The Forge Steakhouse - but be prepared to break the bank! http://theforge. com

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3. The MUST shop…hop in a cab and say two words: ‘The Road’. Lincoln Road mall to be exact. Dubbed the 5th Avenue of the South, you can stroll to see galleries, boutiques and high end retail; and stop by Babalu Miami for souvenirs. http://lincolnroadmall.com 4. The MUST stay…if budget is of no concern, the Metropolitan Miami Beach is the spot. Yet for the budget conscious I recommend the Whitelaw Boutique Hotel as it’s just steps away from Miami Beach and walking distance to all hot spots. http://www. comohotels.com/metropolitanmiamibeach or http:// www.whitelawhotel.com 5. The MUST do off the beaten path…Key Biscayne is definitely off the beaten pathways of South Beach. If you prefer something a bit more tranquil and serene, this is the place to head to. With two beaches, bicycle pathways and fantastic views of Miami, there is definitely something here for everybody. http:// keybiscayne.fl.gov

For more information check out http://www.miamibeachfl.gov/visitors

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Alrashed The Dubai-based hospitality consultant with a taste for good food.

Talal Alrashed has a certain flair when it comes to sharing his culinary experiences; but he still believes personality is the key to success and that Frogs Legs should only be eaten once!

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Please introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Talal Alrashed, a Kuwaiti living in Dubai. I’m a hospitality consultant using social media to share my own selection of restaurants, hotels and venues as well as miscellaneous things from here and there.

Tell us about your education.

I received an Accounting major from the College of Business Administration (CBA), Kuwait City. I also hold a diploma in Hospitality Management from Glion School of Higher Education (GIHE) in Montreux, Switzerland.

Tell us about your career path.

I have moved from several jobs to others since I graduated back in 2006.

Every single experience has been a building block for my personality. I believe personality is your main asset in a career or business that involves a substantial number of people. I am reaping the rewards of that belief now through both hospitality work and social media. I have worked in both government and private sectors in Kuwait and abroad, from within an office and on the ground.

I can say I have a comprehensive idea about many different jobs in the market.

How did you get into food writing?

I’ve always loved writing and admired writers. I’ve had ideas in my mind but could never sit and write them as I am too energetic to sit for a long time.

Hospitality, hotels, travelling and searching for the best eating experiences have helped me to combine my passion for writing with my current, very nonsedentary, activities. I can now travel or move around in cities to discover new experiences and then document them either in photos or articles.

I got into food writing when I noticed that people enjoyed listening to me when I spoke about food, restaurants, cities and hotels. I always remember my business partner when I was in Canada. Whenever we went to a restaurant for a meal, he would say “You should get into the food business; I never met anyone in my life that speaks as passionately as you do about food”. I made him try cuisines he had never tried before, which was funny because his wife asked him not to hang out with me anymore!

Why did you quit your job in Kuwait and move to Dubai?

How I moved to Dubai is a very long story. It is not as self-manifested as many think as there were a set of multi-sourced circumstances that came together to make Dubai part of my life. I never expected that I would live there and I never liked it before I moved there. Starting from 2009 after I quit my job in Kuwait, I lived in Canada for two years, Switzerland for one year, and a few months in Turkey, Germany and Saudi.

Did your family support your decision of moving to Dubai?

My family trusts me to the bones. My mother struggles figuring out exactly what I am looking for in life, and how she can be part of it. That’s very typical of a Khaleeji woman, even though she is the reason why I am this person now. She developed my palate for good food as she is the best cook, and never allowed me to develop a taste for junk food. My father on the other hand, is the exception to most Middle Eastern men. He is an extraordinary man with no ego and with an unlimited amount of unconditional love for his children. He would never give me the impression that unless I become what he thinks I should be, he will not love or respect me. I would say he is the reason I have the luxury to seriously pursue my dreams. I know that no matter what, there will always be someone to accept me and love me for who I will turn out to be, whether that’s an idol to look up to, or a cautionary tale recounted to the coming generation.

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How was the initial experience in Dubai? How long did it take you to settle down there?

There are different scenarios which take people to Dubai. Some find jobs and move there, some open their own business, some just settle there and wander (as they can afford it in one way or another). I had the three combined. It took me a while to see myself living there. I have always thought of Dubai as a stage in my life - and it still could be, who knows - but with time, I felt I was falling in the right place. Every element of Dubai goes well with me and my aspirations - except how expensive it is of course!

Why do so many people adore your blog? What is it about you and your subject matter?

I genuinely do not know what it is about my work people find special, for the simple reason that I do not know much about what is going on in the social media realm. I am very busy with my work, making long snaps, taking photos of the places I go to and posting them to my standard, and writing about the food I eat either in my blog or in websites or magazines.

From the comments I get though, many express their appreciation for how original my work is, how spontaneous my personality, and how detailed I am in describing a dish or the feel of a place.

What do you offer your readers that no-one else does?

Again, I really do not follow what is happening in the social media world. I follow what is happening in the hospitality, restaurants and travel world more than following anything else.

How often do you update your blog and how many unique readers do you have each month?

Sometimes I post every three hours, and sometimes I post every two days. For my blog, I write every couple of weeks or months because I do not believe in forcing myself to just come up with anything to write; I must enjoy an awesome experience or be in a certain state of mind to write compellingly. Of course it is different when I write for magazines, because I will be writing within a certain timeline and

about certain topics. These very constraints act as my source of inspiration in this case.

What is your favourite late-night snack?

How many unique readers do I have? I think people are unquantifiable in this case.

I cannot look at them as a number. I like to know who they are but not how many they are.

Therefore, as much as it sounds idealistic, I do not involve myself in activities, other than my work, that help me to increase the number of followers or views or readers. I avoid looking at my social media channels with a business eye. I am not here to hoard anything, neither followers nor money; I am here to make a difference. It is called social media, we are in direct touch with societies and there are so many people involved. My main concern is being beneficial and adding value, rather than exploiting them. Again, I care who my followers are, not how many they are.

As much as I try to avoid it, I enjoy a good noodle soup at night.

What are your other hobbies?

These are all my hobbies that you see: travelling, eating out, exploring hotels, taking photos, writing and podcasting, sometimes working out. I really do not have time for other things. I have managed to make them my life.

What is your favourite cuisine?

French, for many reasons. But I love all cuisines of the world; they all have something to offer that is unique and worth exploring.

What is your favourite dish?

How many different languages do you speak?

Six Any ingredients you can’t stand?

Which one can’t you live without?

I like every single ingredient as long as it is edible and unharmful, but I cannot live without coffee, almond, vanilla and dark chocolate. They have a unique taste profile and no substitutes.

What would be your dream destination regarding food?

Vietnam for cuisine and Chicago for restaurants. I have a sense there is something in Chicago that I should go and see….

What’s the most adventurous dish you’ve ever eaten?

Frogs legs - and I will never eat them again!

What are the biggest challenges and greatest rewards of being a food blogger?

That’s a hard question! My favourite dish is the English Beef Wellington, but it can be a Kuwaiti fish stew (Marag Semech), or a classic gourmet burger, or the Vietnamese Pho soup….. and I love a proper Ceviche. I also enjoy al dente Pappardelle with mushroom, parsley and olive oil sauce; and I also love Beef Ragu Cannelloni. My God, I have many favourite dishes!

The greatest challenge is being meaningful.

Because of the current tragic situation of the world, someone flying around and eating out is the last thing the world needs; but some people have to do it, and I happen to be one of them. As for the greatest reward, I am living the same life I have always lived before social media, but I am now sharing it with thousands of people.

What is your favourite meal of the day?

Do you have a message for us at CityPages and our readers?

LUNCH LUNCH LUNCH LUNCH! And for those who do not agree, there is no point explaining why. Only people who adore lunches, like me, would understand!

Stay real. Many 15 year olds can now see if someone is fake or genuine. Also, last for a lifetime because fake things don’t. Finally, go regional - people around the region and the world, are becoming so much more interested in each other.

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INDIAN IN LONDON AND KUWAIT

Khaled Nazar Khaled is a Colorado School of Mines Graduate with a BS in Petroleum Engineering.

Currently working for KOC and co-founder of Kuwait Events mobile application, he is (but is not limited to) a cinematographer, photographer, filmmaker, artist, engineer, geek, food critic, wanderlust and car enthusiast. He prefers a mountain hike to a city stroll.

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P

lease rest assured I’m talking about Indian food.

The last time I travelled to London I decided to visit an Indian Michelin star restaurant. I had to choose between Gymkhana and Tamarind.

Both restaurants were in the Mayfair area and I ended up in Gymkhana with my friend Antonio. We arrived at lunch hour and the place was packed with men and women in suits and business attire. Obviously this was the place to be at this hour if you made the yearly six figures. Antonio and I ordered the tasting menu and had ourselves a 1 Michelin star filled stomach.

I ordered the tasting menu and received some of the most innovative Indian cuisine. The ‘Taste of Tamarind’ had me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next plate to arrive. The tandoor grilled baby chicken breast hit me with spices I cannot even begin to describe. My eyes had watered and I was in Krishna heaven. The meal ended with a carrot fudge and pistachio kulfi which was perhaps one of the best deserts I’ve ever had. The hot and cold was like Yin and Yang harmony. Talk about a spiritual meal!

The next day Antonio was busy with some work so I made my way to Mayfair for another Michelin star experience. I had chosen Murano for some fine and sophisticated Italian cuisine but as I crossed the street to Murano I saw Tamarind right there next to it. I had still been dreaming about the Indian food I had the day before so I ditched Murano and entered Tamarind.

To my surprise the place was mostly empty with just a couple of tables with business people sitting in the corner. Before I start talking about my experience I just want to make a statement. Even though two restaurants have a Michelin star, it doesn’t mean that they’re on the same level.

After coming back from London I heard that Namaste had just opened. I visited the small restaurant in the heart of Kuwait City and waited for a table. Namaste serves only a set menu for 10 KD per person but, in my opinion, delivered very weak on their food and spices.

I gave up on it until one of my friends suggested I go back and give it another chance. We were given the same set menu option but this time the food was just perfect on every level. The spices were carefully measured into each dish and things just fell together into a tasty meal. If they can promise to keep up that consistency I’ll be sure to drop in more often. Maybe one day Namaste will be our very own Tamarind.

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Perth, Australia

Laid-back, liveable Perth has wonderful weather, beautiful beaches and an easygoing character. About as close to Bali as to some of Australia's eastern state capitals, Perth's combination of big-city attractions with relaxed and informal surrounds offers an appealing lifestyle for locals and lots to do for visitors. It's a sophisticated, cosmopolitan city with restaurants and cultural activities all vying for attention. When you want to chill out, it's easy to do so.

Perth's pristine parkland, nearby bush, and river and ocean beaches – along with a good public transport system – allow its inhabitants to spread out and enjoy what's on offer.

Where to Stay

The Richardson Hotel & Spa

The Richardson is a 5-star boutique accommodation located 400 metres from Perth's renowned King's Park and Botanical Gardens. It offers an outdoor heated pool with a garden and an award-winning spa. Free WiFi is included.

Things to do

Western Australian Museum – Shipwreck Galleries

Located within an 1852 commissariat store, the Shipwreck Galleries are considered the finest display of maritime archaeology in the southern hemisphere. The highlight is the Batavia Gallery , where a section of the hull of Dutch merchant ship Batavia, wrecked in 1629, is displayed. Nearby is a large stone gate, intended as an entrance to Batavia Castle, which was being carried when it sank.

Fremantle Prison

With its foreboding 5m-high walls, the old convict-era prison still dominates Fremantle.

Daytime tour options include the Doing Time Tour taking in the kitchens, men's cells and solitary-confinement cells. The Great Escapes Tour recounts famous inmates and takes in the women's prison. Book ahead for the Torchlight Tour focusing on macabre aspects of the prison's history, and the 2½-hour Tunnels Tour which includes an underground boat ride and subterranean tunnels built by prisoners.

Quality Suites Fremantle

Formerly Bannisters, and now re-badged as Quality Suites Fremantle, it's worth paying extra for one of the suites with spacious balconies and rooftop views. Even if you plump for a regular room at this boutique property, you're always just a few steps away from food, shopping and eating.

Where to Dine Restaurant Amusé Art Gallery of Western Australia

The Murray Hotel

Founded in 1895, this excellent gallery houses the state's pre-eminent art collection. It contains important post-WWII works by Australian luminaries such as Arthur Boyd, Albert Tucker, Grace Cossington Smith, Russell Drysdale, Arthur Streeton and Sidney Nolan. Check the website for a changing array of free tours run most days at 11am and 1pm. The gallery's Indigenous galleries are also very well regarded.

Handily located near Kings Park, the Murray is an older hotel that's recently had a 21st-century makeover. Decor is sharp and modern, and although the hotel's 1970s provenance is not completely concealed, it's still good value in an expensive city. The pool is a cooling addition in a sultry WA summer, and Perth's free CAT bus service stops outside.

St Michael 6003

Perth Helicopter Tour

Crown Metropol Perth

Situated on the banks of the Swan River overlooking the Perth city skyline, Crown Metropol Perth offers modern and stylish accommodation within a 15 minutes’ drive from Perth’s International and Domestic Airports. Perth city centre is a 5-minute drive away.

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See the city of Fremantle and its surroundings like never before by taking a 15-minute helicopter ride over the city! You'll fly along the Southern suburbs and coastline to Fremantle providing endless photo opportunities. Admire the panoramic views and take in the history of Fremantle as you fly over one of Western Australia's most popular cities, just 20km from Perth.

Bon voyage!

The Trustee

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natacha bultot “Our eyes are the mirror of our deep truth�

Inspired by her father, Natacha Bultot is a self-taught artist who believes our eyes reveal our soul. Applying feeling and emotion to her artwork, her message is all about the unsaid.

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October, 2015

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Please introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Natacha Bultot, I am a Belgian painter. I am passionate and self-taught. My father, who was an advertising illustrator, has been a leader and a huge inspiration to me.

Tell us about your education.

I have never studied Art. I studied public relations and did one year of journalism.

What is the greatest challenge you face when creating art?

Please give us a brief summary of your childhood - what got you into becoming an artist?

The greatest challenge is to transmit the emotion.

I started to draw and to paint around the age of 5 years old. My father, who usually worked late in his office at home, had the habit of giving me a huge piece of paper to draw on.

That’s where it all began.

Can you paint anywhere, anytime, in any mood or do you have to have some particulars?

Did you have any training? Where do you derive your inspiration from?

I would sit on a chair in front of my father. By watching his artwork, I began to be inspired by this world of colours. The adventure started like this.

He taught me the love of art but allowed me to be free to discover my own way of doing things and to find my own style. No techniques have been taught, only two eyes, one nose and a mouth. "You do how you feel" was the main philosophy so my approach to art is based on feelings and emotions.

As an artist how do you go about selecting topics to paint?

Maybe because my father was often confined between ‘four walls’ to focus on his creations in his office, I began very early to be attracted by huge horizons. The sea, desert and anything far away represented freedom.

What is your favorite subject to paint?

Definitely eyes, particularly Tuaregs or veiled women. The veil underlines and increases the depth of the glance and I really enjoy drawing and painting this depth.

What is your favorite medium?

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depends on my energy. If my energy is good I can achieve a piece quite fast, because at that moment I give everything and throw all my energy on the canvas. Of course energy is not enough; you have to work hard until you are satisfied with the result. The one which took me about one month to complete was the ‘Masterpiece’ that you can see on my website www.thepoweroftheeyes.com. It’s acrylic on wood of 130cm/130cm.

No I need silence, or to have my music. I have to be able to concentrate and empty my mind of everything. I need a good energy.

Where have you exhibited your work so far?

I have done around 30 exhibitions in Belgium and France.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on an abstract.

How do you see your work evolving over the years?

Somewhere between abstract and figurative.

Do you try to communicate any message through your art?

Yes, particularly through the eyes that I paint.

My message is about the unsaid. Our eyes speak for us, they reveal our soul. There is often a big difference between what we say and what we really feel; our eyes are the mirror of our deep truth.

Where can people buy or view your work?

Acrylic and soft pastels.

You can find my art on my website www. thepoweroftheeyes.com

How long does it take you to complete a finished work?

Your message for us at CityPages magazine:

It depends. When I paint it's almost about a fusion between my canvas and me. So it really

Of course, a big thank you. For me it's a real pleasure and honor to be in your magazine.

JANUARY, 2016

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Talking

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Italian

A warm welcome awaits you at Kuwait’s latest Pizzeria. But Mangiare isn’t just about pizza; it’s an Italian with a twist.

Everybody’s talking about Mangiare, the chic new eatery in Kuwait. Its eye catching exterior is guaranteed to grab your attention and one glance into its glass fronted edifice is enough to tempt you inside. Situated in the up-andcoming area of Darwaza, this smart establishment is certainly one to watch.

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The huge picture windows ensure a light and airy space; the furniture and décor providing the essential rustic charm. Exposed ducts and pipes decorate the mat black ceiling, highlighted with light bulb clusters and random metal shades. The clever use of mirrors adds to the feeling of space, and color is provided by contrasting greenery and prominent pictures of the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. The ruins of an ancient amphitheatre decorate the rear wall, providing guests with unmistakable Mediterranean vibes.

As with most Italian restaurants, the smell of oregano is unmistakable. But to use the owner’s own words, this is an Italian with a twist.

Not only do they serve the traditional Italian favorites, they also cater for other tastes with their club sandwich, sliders and grilled salmon; so there really is something for everyone. The same can be said for the music. Mellow and discreet, it ranged from ‘hip’ to ‘chill-out’, adding to the already relaxed atmosphere oozing from every corner.

Our table had a great view of the open kitchen; the giant ‘face’ of the pizza oven staring down at us with wide eyes and a fiery mouth. The staff were courteous and efficient and were soon serving our chosen starters of Prawn Milanese, Roast Tomato Bruschetta, Insalata Di Gamberi and Insalata Caprese. The breaded prawns were hot and crispy, perfectly seasoned and served with a creamy parmesan dip. The bruschetta was crisp and light, topped with juicy tomatoes, cheese and olive oil, and drizzled with pesto.

The gamberi salad was a perfect combination of fresh lettuce, plump shrimp, avocado, ripe mango and a little olive oil. As for the insalata caprese, the smiles from my dining companions said it all. The wonderfully presented layers of mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and pesto sauce certainly tasted as good as they looked.

We sipped our mocktails as we watched the chef prepare our main course. The Classic, Passion and Blu Mojitos were as refreshing as they were colorful. Taking another opportunity to browse the menu, we selected alternative starters for our next visit: Fantasia De Verdure Al Pesto, Chicken Caesar Salad, Crema Di Patate Broccoli and Mozzarella Carroza. In the meantime, we enjoyed fresh bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Everyone knows an Italian restaurant is best judged by its Lasagna. In this case, Mangiare scored 10/10. Served hot and sizzling this traditional pasta dish was deliciously meaty.

With a rich tomato taste and just the right amount of cheese, it was most definitely a winner. The Risotto Funghi didn’t disappoint either. Thick and creamy, this rice dish was decorated with strips of parmesan and sprigs of parsley, the non-alcoholic wine providing a distinct but subtle tang. Perfect.

No trip to an Italian restaurant would be complete without pizza, so despite our expanding waistlines, we ordered a Pollastrona (chicken, olives, peppers, oregano and

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mozzarella). Pre-cut and served on a clever rotating plate (ideal for sharing), we tucked in with gusto. The base was light and crispy, the vegetables crunchy and fresh and the cheese, deliciously stringy.

We followed this with a Calzone. This perfectly shaped crescent of folded pizza was accompanied by a salad of wild rocket, cherry tomatoes and parmesan shavings and was sliced open to reveal a stream of hot cheese, portabello mushrooms and olive oil. Delizioso!

Other main courses included Spaghetti Bolognaise, Penne Rossa, Tagliatelli Ala Crema, Risotto Mari Al Monti, Grilled Salmon, Grilled Chicken and of course, a variety of pizzas. We’ll definitely be back.

Obviously, we couldn’t leave without sampling the dessert so we opted for Tiramsu and Cheesecake. Both were homemade and served in a delicate cocktail glass. The tiramsu was exceptionally light and smooth, with soft coffee biscuit at the base and topped with a sugary biscuit finger. The buttery biscuit base of the cheesecake complemented the deliciously creamy topping and was finished off with a vibrant berry sauce. We were unable to agree on a favorite; both were first class.

As daylight faded, the mood softened and we were sorry to leave this new found haven.

Tempted as we were to settle ourselves in the stylish outdoor seating area and make the most of the terrace heaters, we reluctantly said our farewells with a genuine promise to return.

Mangiare is open Monday to Saturday from 12.30pm to 10.30pm. It is closed on Sundays.

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EAT RIGHT FOR YOUR

BODY TYPE a sedentary job and exercising less. These may change your body type to an Endomorph.

Jamie & Alana Karehana

D

o you ever wish you had a friend’s body shape or get annoyed when your friend, sibling or colleague eats whatever they want and not seem to put on any weight?

Everyone comes in different shapes, sizes, height, genetics and physiology.

One approach we have found to be very successful in changing your body shape or explaining why certain people can get away with eating what they want is Somatotyping.

Somatotyping categorises everyone based on their physique or shape. There are three types: Ectomorph (I shape), Endomorph (O shape) and Mesomorph (V shape). The Ectomorph is characterised by a thin build, fast metabolism and generally gets away with eating anything without gaining weight. A Mesomorph is more of an athletic, muscular or toned build; and an Endomorph has an apple or pear shape, gains weight easily and has a slower metabolism.

You may change from one body shape to another over the course of your life. For example, during your teen and adolescent years you may be more active, have no responsibilities and have a fast metabolism, therefore have an Ectomorph or Mesomorph body type. As you move into work, become busier and more career focused, you may have more responsibilities which compromise your lifestyle habits, like poor food choices, having

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You can also be a combination of two body types at one time, for example a cross between an Ectomorph/Endomorph or Mesomorph/ Endomorph. The main reason this can occur is due to lifestyle factors, medial conditions or medications.

It’s not always that simple to change from one body type to another. That’s why there is not a one-size fit’s all approach. For most people that are compliant and don’t have any predispositions (suffer from any medical conditions) most of the time it’s pretty straight forward. However, from our experience we find that those people who take medication, have certain medical conditions

(IBS, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid, high blood pressure, digestive problems etc) or have lifestyle factors such as high stress, lack of sleep, age, genetics, not going to the bathroom daily or over training, then it can get challenging. This is why you commonly see a disclaimer at the end of a fitness or nutrition infomercial saying ‘results may vary’. We always recommend that those with a medical condition or who take medication check with their doctor or dietician prior to beginning our program to make sure the program is right for them.

The majority of clients that come to see us are either an Endomorph, a combination of Ectomorph/Endomorph or Mesomorph/ Endomorph. So today’s article will cover the Endomorph ‘O type nutrition guide’.

Typical traits for both male and female ‘O type’ include having a soft and round body, are either apple or pear shape, gain muscle and fat very easily, stocky build, have a slow metabolism, muscles not so well defined and find it hard to lose fat. O types generally do best on a higher fat and protein intake with carbohydrate intake being lower. So we recommend more fat and protein, less carbohydrates.

In terms of portion control we use your hand as your measuring tool.

For men, begin by eating for each of your main meals e.g. breakfast, lunch and dinner: -2 palms of protein dense foods -2 fists of vegetables -1 cupped handful of carb dense foods -3 thumbs of fat dense foods

For women, begin by eating for each of your main meals e.g. breakfast, lunch and dinner: -1 palm of protein dense foods -1 fist of vegetables -0.5 cupped handful of carb dense foods -2 thumbs of fat dense foods Your protein dense foods include salmon, tuna, egg, beef and chicken. Your good fats include avocado, olive/coconut oil, flax seeds, nuts and nut butter. Carb dense foods include gluten free oats, pasta and rice.

To help determine what body type(s) you are, check to see if you fit two or more of the traits mentioned earlier for an ‘O body type’ and compare yourself to the pictures that feature in this article. If you are a combination of two body types including Ectomorph/Endomorph or Mesomorph/Endomorph then follow the ‘O type nutrition guidelines’.

To find out more about the ‘O type nutrition guidelines’ go to karehanafitness.com, subscribe to our newsletter and we’ll send you your free guide that explains everything you need to know including an illustrated portion control guide, comprehensive list of food options, how often you should eat, snack foods and an example seven day meal plan.

Or, if you would like us to run a free seminar at your workplace or organisation, send us an email to admin@karehanafitness.com.

In our next article we will talk about Ectomorph and Mesomorph body type nutrition guidelines, when to start adding more carbohydrates into your meals, when to incorporate treat meals and what to do for maintenance.

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YUMMY FOR THEIR LITTLE TUMMY:

BANANA-CADO

Sherifa Alasousi Owner of Sugar Box Bakery and winner of ‘Let's Cook’ competition in 2014, Sherifa loves exploring new flavors as well as new places.

Having a baby changed her life, particularly when it came to food, but she soon realized that for a healthy baby, you just need to cook with love.

H

aving a baby has changed my life completely, especially when it comes to food. I started making healthier choices when grocery shopping for my family and realized that to feed your baby healthy and nutritious food, you don't need to be a chef - you just need to be a mother.

Avocado is a wonderful first food for a baby. It is smooth and creamy when mashed - a perfect food that will be more readily accepted as your baby begins solids. Avocado may be offered as early as 4-6 months old. As well as proteins, babies need carbohydrates and fats for their growth during the crucial first year, and even into the second year. As you begin to introduce a wide variety of foods, you will find that mashing avocado and mixing it with apple sauce, peaches, pears, bananas and even yogurt, makes a wonderful meal or snack.

Yes, avocados are full of fat! But don’t worry about the fat content - babies should NOT be on a low fat diet. Babies need fat in their diets for proper growth and brain development. Please disregard any advice to avoid avocados because they are high in fats. If you have any doubts, as always, we recommend you consult your pediatrician.

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Avocados are high in monounsaturated fat, that’s the good kind of fat! A medium size avocado contains approximately 322 calories and up to 30 grams of fat – WOW! 1 cup of avocado puree contains almost 700 calories as it would take approximately 2 avocados to make a cup. But the benefits of avocados far outweigh the so-called ‘risks’.

Banana-Cado puree: Step 1: Peel and de-pit a ripe avocado Step 2: Cut out the flesh and mash with a fork Step 3: Peel and mash a banana Step 4: Place in a blender or food processor and puree until the desired texture is achieved. Avocados and bananas do not need to be cooked.

Optional step: I also add a little honey to make it sweet for my little bug - and even healthier (recommended for 8-12 months old) - but ask your doctor before you do.

Bon appetit!

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BISHARA Proving that doodling is an art Rasha Bishara has big ideas when it comes to art. The 9th grade student is currently balancing her doodling with her school work but with university just around the corner, her sights are set very firmly on a future in art.

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Please introduce readers.

yourself

to

our

Hi, my name is Rasha Bishara. I’m 15 years old, a student and an aspiring illustrator. I’ve always had a thing for doodling!

Tell us about your education.

I am a student at Indian English Academy School, in grade nine, following CBSE standards.

At what age did you start designing/ creating artworks and what was your first inspiration?

From the age of around 7, I really loved to draw; it brought out my creativity. I started doodling at the age of 10. As far as I can remember, I was into old art shows like Art Attack plus any animated cartoon. They had different types as characters and I guess that’s what inspired me when doodling. Now it’s YouTube!

Did you formally learn to design or are you self-taught?

I would say I’m self-taught as I just randomly started drawing characters.

What tools do you use in your work?

All sorts of black permanent markers, and pencils.

How do you get started on a piece?

I plug in my earphones and doodle listening to my favorite songs.

What (or who) inspires you for your works?

A social media channel named ‘pic candle’.

Her doodles inspire me a lot as I get lots of new ideas on where my doodles can be implemented.

What different doodle on?

materials

do

you

I doodle on basically anything lying around: laptops, ipads, phone covers….

How long does it typically take to finish an A4 sized artwork?

Sometimes I do a rough sketch which is less time consuming compared to when I have no rough sketch; and it’s all randomness so it takes about an hour or so.

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Tell us about some of the projects you have done so far?

My projects have included designing shirts, laptops, lampshades, phone covers, books and mugs.

Which among your drawings do you consider most memorable and why?

I have a lot that I consider memorable but I think my first doodle is the most memorable.

Who is your creative hero?

My 7th grade teacher is my creative hero as she really pulled out all my creativity and improved my ideas. My parents too. Although they don’t doodle, they always give an honest opinion on my works and ideas on how I can improve it.

Do you exhibit your work somewhere?

Well not up to now, but I do take orders and sell the stuff I make.

How often do you doodle?

Anytime I feel bored or if I still have extra time after all my school work.

Does it not impact on your studies?

No, not really. It’s two different things so it doesn’t interact with, or affect my studies.

Do you interests?

have

any

other

major

Yes, photography. I guess I am following in my dad’s footsteps. Also, making bath and beauty stuff like body scrubs and soaps. And baking too.

What is your ultimate dream as far as art is concerned?

To have my own shops and online stores.

What would like to study at university?

Anything to do with designing and arts.

Your message for us at City Pages magazine: I would like to thank you all for giving me this opportunity for being in this month’s issue.

I really love this magazine and make sure I go through it every month when my dad brings it home from the coffee shop.

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WINTER GOODNESS

SALTED CARAMEL HOT CHOCOLATE SALTED CARAMEL CAPPUCCINO

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OUD

ASAMA Perfumes The creative method gave ASAMA Perfumes the time and the opportunity to craft fragrances while working with the highest quality ingredients in a bottle and using Arabic and Western scents as a unique concept point for the fragrances. They welcome your comments at PR@ ASAMAPerfumes.com Follow them on Instagram and Twitter: @ASAMAPerfumes

O

ud, also known as Agarwood, is the resinous wood used as incense for medicinal purposes.

Pure resin in distilled form is used as an essential oil as well as a perfume component.

Outside its native countries, it is most widely known in the Middle East, China, Taiwan and Japan. A strong connection exists between its use, religion and curative properties, and it is used in elaborate traditional and religious ceremonies around the world. Faith healers in the Middle East use it at curative ceremonies.

Value The value of first-grade Agarwood is extremely high. A wide array of products of different grades is available on the market, varying with geographical location and cultural deposition. Prices range from a few dollars per kilo for the lowest quality, to over thirty thousand US dollars for top quality oil and resinous wood. Agarwood is listed as a critically endangered species in Vietnam and Cambodia.

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THE BIG 6 EYE CARE TIPS FOR 2016

A

Natalie Rose Choonoo Natalie is an optometrist and contact lens specialist at International Optique. She has a Bachelor of Optometry from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal South Africa. For more information contact International Optique.

Tel: 25714007 – 97234753, www. intoptic.com – info@intoptic.com, Instagram: @intoptique

s the New Year begins we always look forward to the things that should be accomplished in the months ahead - be it a body image issue which has been nagging you, giving up on an undesirable habit or unfulfilled career goals. Since we are all about ‘eyes’, here are some eye care tips for you to personally adhere to in 2016.

EYE TESTS

•Test your eyes at regular intervals of one year - or sooner if your vision is decreasing.

•If you are above the age of 40 or have any systematic diseases, a retinal exam is necessary. This can be conducted by any ophthalmologist in Kuwait.

•Be vigilant of your own symptoms. Common visual symptoms include a decreased inability to drive at night, frontal headaches or an inability to see fine print close-up.

CHILDREN

•Good vision is a necessity for early development; hence an eye test or some form of visual screening should be done from an early age. This is a topic which must be discussed with your child's pediatrician.

•As soon as your child starts school, make sure you observe or listen to any symptoms they may have. Some common pediatric visual systems are the inability to see the board, headaches or squinting to focus.

GENERAL HEALTH

•Your well-being in terms of general health cannot be stressed enough. Remember the ‘big 3’ - cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure, play a pivotal role in visual well-being. The first order of well-being for 2016 should be a general check-up to exclude any of the above or any other form of systemic illness.

EYE PROTECTION

•Protect your eyes in sand, sea or snow. UV protection is mandatory in all seasons.

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•Safety eyewear is required for any job that carries an occupational risk. Visit us at International Optique for a wide range of safety eyewear that meets international safety standards.

•As the world of digital and smart devices evolves, protection from ‘blue light’ is a must. Blue light was discussed in a former article but to recap, blue light is the uncomfortable glare or light that is emitted from digital devices and causes uncomfortable symptoms including headaches and sore eyes. A simple coating can provide considerable relief of discomfort.

NUTRITION

•A diet full of ‘eye rich’ nutrients is a must for everybody. Some vitamins which are essential to eye health include beta carotene (carrots) and omega 3's (oily fish). Not only are these foods tasty, they also serve other functional purposes for your body.

•Include a vitamin in your daily diet which is meant for eye health. Look out for supplements which contain Lutein, vitamin A, vitamin D, etc. Always consult your doctor before the start of a supplement.

SPECTACLE HYGIENE

•Spectacle hygiene is important to your vision. When we talk of spectacle hygiene we are talking about the cleanliness of your spectacles.

•Wipe your spectacles every day utilizing your cleaning cloth for sharper vision and to detect any unforeseen scratches. A drop of dishwashing soap and warm water makes an excellent and occasional deep cleaner for your lenses.

•Inspect the general appearance of your frame i.e. is the material tarnishing? Are the nose-pads clean? Are your spectacles well aligned according to your facial features?

THE HEARING CARE CENTER - SALMIYA, CENTRAL PLAZA TEL. 25714573 MOB. 97234752 www.intoptic.com

CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM International Optique

intoptique

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Dr. Tamam El-Khalil Encouraging our youth to eat healthily, to maintain an ideal gastrointestinal health.

Please introduce yourself to our readers.

I am Dr. Tamam El-Khalil. I am Lebanese and have recently joined Dar Al Shifa Hospital.

Tell us a bit about your education.

I studied my Internal Medicine Residency program and Gastroenterology Fellowship at American University Hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

How did you get into medicine, what motivated you to become a doctor?

When I was young my father encouraged me to be a doctor in medicine so I finished High School and enrolled in Medical School.

Why did you choose gastroenterology as your specialization?

Because I liked it! There are many procedures to do inside the Gastro-Intestinal Tract.

What are the most common gastroenterology related ailments you come across in Kuwait?

The procedures I perform during endoscopy are Upper and Lower G.I. Endoscopy, during which the patient is usually sedated and must have fasted for at least 8 hours. During endoscopy, a small flexible tube is inserted to visualize the G.I. Tract. For example the esophagus, stomach and small part of the small bowel for Gastroscopy, while in Colonoscopy we examine

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the whole large bowel and the terminal end of the small bowel.

During endoscopy we can remove any polyp that is encountered inside and can treat the bleeding ulcers or varices seen during examination.

Please tell us more about the Endoscopy service. How does it work, is it safe and who qualifies for this?

The procedures are usually safe and it should be performed only after taking a full medical history from the patient.

What is the most common liver disease you come across in Kuwait?

The most common liver diseases seen in Kuwait are Hepatitis secondary to Virus C, and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis secondary to some medical problems eg. Diabetes, Obesity.

Do you also perform Paediatric endoscopy?

No, I am not involved in treating Peadiatric patients.

What are the most common gastrointestinal cancers?

Colon cancer, Gastric and Pancreatic cancer.

Does Dar AlShifa also offer screening for gastrointestinal cancers and how would you describe the facilities?

Dar Al Shifa hospital provides the facility for screening for G.I. Cancers by doing the required endoscopies.

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Do you also perform liver transplantation?

No, this is a Surgical Procedure and I am not involved in that process.

Do you have any tips/advice for students studying medicine and looking forward to a career in gastroenterology?

What is the prevalence of gastrointestinal cancer in Kuwait?

The prevalence of G.I. Cancers in Kuwait is growing. The most common cancer in Kuwait among men is colon cancer. It is also the 3rd most common cancer in females.

My message for Medical Students: Gastroenterology is a bridge between surgery and medicine. We can perform a lot of procedure inside the G.I. Tract without predisposing the patient to surgery.

What advice would you give to our readers to have an ideal gastrointestinal health?

The people in Kuwait should have healthy foods rich in green vegetables and fresh fruits and eat less meat and fatty foods. I would like to address the young generation and encourage them to abstain from eating fast foods.

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Your message for us at CityPages: I would like to thank CityPages for this interview to let readers be aware about diseases and the way to treat it in general practice.

Thank you.

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www.boushahricp.com

Baghdad Street – Building 38 same as Boushahri Seema Pharmacy, Opposite Suleiman Al-Luhaib Mosque - Tel : 1888877

Boushahri_clinic

WINSTANLEY The graphic artist whose passion for opposites led to her to investigate truth and lies.

“What’s the biggest lie you’ve ever told?” That’s the question Lisa Winstanley asked when her ‘I Lie Kit’ project was conceived. Finding creative inspiration from our various untruths, she’s putting together a visual gallery of anonymous confessions. Would you be brave enough to confess your biggest lie?

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Please introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, I’m Lisa Winstanley, a graphic artist and design educator originally from England but I’ve lived in Kuwait for the past 6 years.

I’m also a mum to a beautiful 2 year old little girl. So, as you can imagine my life is pretty busy!

Tell us about your education.

My education is somewhat unconventional, for this part of the world at least. After I left high school I went on to study for a 2 year diploma in graphic design, followed by a 2 year Higher Diploma also in graphic design (this is equivalent to 2 years of a bachelors degree and is a vocational qualification). It was only when I came to Kuwait that I needed a BA in order to get a job! So I went back to school with the University of Hertfordshire in the UK and completed my BA in Graphic design in 2010. I’m now just about to complete my MA in Graphic Communication and maybe then a PhD - who knows?!

What originally made you want to become a graphic designer?

I’ve always loved to create and make things since being a child. Back when I studied in college, Graphic Design was a very different beast! Computers were few and far between and everything was done by hand; Graphic Design was a craft and this was what appealed to me. Making something tactile, something tangible is what drives me. Don’t get me wrong I live in the 21st century and I embrace technology but I still love to create design that is physical; a book, a piece of packaging, a magazine cover! Somehow digital design just seems a little colder, less personal.

Describe your path to becoming a designer.

I always knew I wanted to do something creative and literally the day after I left college, I started my first job as a junior designer for a small firm in the UK. I worked my way up through the ranks at a number of different creative companies and finally became senior designer for one of the best design agencies in the Northwest of England, SMR Creative.

My major clients included Vimto Soft Drinks, Cadbury’s and Slazenger Sport. My portfolio has now diversified quite a lot and I specialize more in illustrative work and hand drawn typography. I’m not the kind of designer you call up for a boring business card!

How would you approach to design?

describe

your

I consider myself to be a problem solver, a visual communicator. To me, graphic design is not about making things look pretty (although that helps!) it’s about communicating a message to an audience. I see that as being the biggest difference between art and design; art is personal, design, for the most part, is not. I think that’s why I like to refer to myself as a

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graphic artist; my artwork always has a little bit of my soul in there. Practically heresy in the design world! Nevertheless, my audience is always my primary concern and indulging my ego comes a definite second.

Who or what has been the biggest single influence on your approach to design?

The ‘rockstar’ designer, Stefan Sagmeister has been highly influential to my practice.

His groundbreaking techniques and fearless graphic exploration, pushing design to the peripheries, inspire me greatly. Over the course of the past 2 years I’ve also discovered my love for opposites; Sagmeister’s work is very opulent and extravagant but I’m equally inspired by minimalism, for example the work of the great Massimo Vignelli. It’s these opposing forces of opulence and simplicity that interest me and it’s only now, after almost 20 years of practicing, that I’m finally finding my own voice as an artist.

What type of brief or project do you enjoy working on the most?

I’m not the kind of designer you should call on for a typical corporate stationery project.

There’s a market for ‘jobbing’ design but it’s not me! My ideal commission would be a record cover design. Design for music and packaging would be an ideal combination; something quirky and unusual; ideally a client that would allow me creative freedom with a realistic budget. Is that wishful thinking?

What would you say is your strongest skill?

This is a tough one! In terms of design, I think conceptually I’m pretty strong, you’ll never get a clichéd idea from me or at very least I’ll put my own unusual twist to it. In general I think organization has to be my strong point. I work full time, study 30 hours a week plus, I’m also a wife and mum so if I’m not totally organized my life disintegrates into chaos!

Tell us about your study topic ‘graphic exploration of lies and truth’.

This has been such a fun experience! As I mentioned previously I have a real passion for opposites; dark and light, good and evil and it seemed a natural progression to then begin to investigate truth and lies. There is so much discourse on the subject philosophically, scientifically and even psychologically but hardly anything graphically. I wanted to explore visually, how a lie can be represented or even how graphics can be used to influence the belief in a falsity or cast doubt on sincerity.

After all, the whole advertising world is based on the premise of us believing what they want us to believe in order to sell products. I began this project with an anonymous survey and asked a series of probing questions, such as, what’s the biggest lie you’ve ever told? I had such an overwhelming response and people used this almost as a confessional. I was told CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

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some weird, wonderful and outrageous lies and from there the idea for ‘I Lie Kit’ was conceived.

What is the I Lie Kit Project about?

We all lie, whether we like to admit it or not. It is a ubiquitous truth of our society and paradoxically we are all equally quick to judge. I conceived www.iliekit.com as an anonymous online confessional portal. A place where you can safely confess to lies you have told without fear of judgment or reprisal.

On a regular basis I choose the best (or worst dependent on your perspective) lie and create an artistic representation of that lie. This is then showcased on the home page, in the gallery and across social media. In short it’s your anonymous confessions, illustrated. A visual gallery of secrets! I will be collating this artwork together in a printed art book and I’m currently looking for venues to host a physical exhibition in 2016.

Are you creatively satisfied?

At the moment I would have to say a definitive yes! I lie kit gives me the creative freedom to experiment and really have fun.

How do you think online design resources have influenced the graphic design being produced today?

There are so many amazing creative resources available for designers; sites like behance.net and dribble are essential parts of any selfrespecting creative’s toolbox of inspiration. I wouldn’t even think about starting a project without spending vast amounts of time on research. The downside of this is that any innovative idea can be quickly eaten up by the industry and what was innovative yesterday becomes mainstream by tomorrow. However,

it does force the front runners to continually push boundaries and I guess that can only be considered as a good thing.

That said, is there anything you want to explore in the next 5 to 10 years?

Even after almost 20 years experience I feel like I’m only just starting my career as a graphic artist. My previous work has been mainly commercial packaging and branding and I’m now moving away from this and designing from my heart so I’m so exited about the future and the new creative challenges it holds.

Share with us your proudest moment in your career so far.

Back in 2008 I won a Pent Award (awards issued by the dieline.com) for my packaging design for Slazenger Sports drink. I’ve won many design awards but this is kind of like the Oscars for packaging design. I was so proud although no red carpet moment!

Do you have any favorite movies or TV shows?

I’m a huge fan of The Walking Dead TV show, gotta love a good zombie! Movie wise, my taste is as unconventional as my design. I love French language movies such as Angel A and Girl on a Bridge but my favorite movie ever is the black comedy ‘Trainspotting’ directed by Danny Boyle.

Do you have any favorite books?

I love the author Terry Pratchett. Any of his discworld series of books will entertain me for hours.

What is your favorite food?

I love seafood, in particular swordfish.

Yummy!

What’s your personal motto?

It always seems impossible until it’s done.

What kind of legacy do you hope to leave?

Foremost I hope to be an inspiration to my daughter. I want to teach her that if you work hard and with passion you can succeed in whatever you choose. The only limit is your imagination. If I can lead by example then my mission is complete. As a design educator I also hope that I can inspire my students.

I’m a little biased but I believe Box Hill’s graphic design program helps shape some great young designers and if I can contribute, even a little, to empowering women in the creative industries here in Kuwait then I’ll be incredibly happy.

What advice would you give to a young person starting out in design?

Do what you love. Love what you do. And never compromise on quality.

Your message for us at CityPages magazine: As a print based designer I believe CityPages magazine has such valued place in today’s predominantly digital society. I wish CityPages many more successful years to come and a very happy 2016.

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by: Melody Mackintosh @MelodyMackintosh

melodymackintoshblog.wordpress.com

I

HOTEL HORRORS

’m thinking of taking up a new career as a hotel inspector. Hotel bedrooms to be specific. In my experience, the basic needs of a hotel guest are fairly simple - a bed, a fully functioning bathroom, somewhere to hang your clothes and a desk/dressing table. Other things can be included to ‘pretty it up’ or to justify the often ludicrous room rate being charged, but get those few things right and you should, at least, have a comfortable stay. Hotels these days seem to have their priorities all wrong. Let’s face it, the modern day traveller is more interested in finding out the hotel wifi code than whether or not there’s a shower cap in the bathroom.

So why is it, even these basic necessities often fall short of what is acceptable? Why, if you ask for twin beds, do you get a double? I mean, I like my friend but I don’t like her that much! Why spend hours of time and thousands of dollars designing a bathroom with absolutely nowhere for guests to put their toiletry bag? Why provide a wardrobe with no coat hangers; and why hang a mirror above the dressing table if it’s too high to actually look into it? As for the wifi, I begrudge paying extra for this modern-day necessity when I’ve already paid a ridiculous sum for the room.

Back to the dressing table. If you’re lucky enough to have one with a suitable chair and a well positioned mirror, why should you then have to search the room for a plug? My hair straighteners will only stretch so far! And how about a decent light? It’s not easy trying to put make-up on in the dark.

More often than not, I’m forced to make-up in the bathroom. Firstly, I have to wait until my chosen travel companion has finished showering, shaving or doing whatever else he or she does in the bathroom. Then I have to wait until the steam has cleared from the mirror. If I’m lucky, I manage to finish the job without dropping my mascara in the toilet or my lipstick in the sink.

Staying in the bathroom, the horror of all horrors has to be the telephone. Why on earth put a telephone next to the toilet? These are the most disgusting, unhygienic things ever to be found in a hotel room. They should be removed, bagged and exterminated along with fluffy germ-ridden bath mats and slimy plastic shower curtains.

As for cushions, what is the point of putting cushions on hotel beds when the first thing you do is throw them on the floor? They’re neither use nor ornament as my mother would say. When you eventually find the bed beneath the mountain of cushions, and select at least one pillow you think might be comfortable, you then have your own private light show as you play with the various different switches, finally realising you can’t turn off the table lamp without getting out of bed.

Of course, you may have been offered a ‘turn-down’ service, allowing

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hotel staff to remove the cushions on your behalf, to fold back the bed sheets, and to place a tiny chocolate on your pillow. Some may think this is luxurious – I just think it’s silly. Are folk really that lazy that they need someone else to pull back their bed sheets? And how many people have woken up next to a melted chocolate in the morning?

If you’re lucky enough to have a good night’s sleep with no interruptions from noisy neighbours, dodgy air conditioning or an alarm set by the previous guest, the first thing you need when you wake up is a cup of tea or coffee. Unfortunately, this is when you realise there is only one tea bag (and it’s Earl Grey), there’s no sugar and the kettle is miles away from a plug. Not to mention the suspiciously sticky mug.

In the absence of caffeine, a shower should do the trick. If you’re lucky, they changed the towels while you were out. If not, you’re using the same damp towel you used the night before. You could of course call housekeeping and ask for a clean one but by the time they arrive with your new fluffy towel, you could be showered, dressed and half way through your Eggs Benedict.

Now for the hairdryer - the make or break of a hotel room. Bad news if it’s fixed in a drawer with a cord barely long enough to reach the mirror; bad news if you have to keep your thumb on the switch to keep it going (resulting in either a bad case of cramp or a hint of RSI, depending on the length of your hair); and bad news if it only has one heat/power setting. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve regretted not packing my own hairdryer but I’m a firm believer in travelling light and am ever hopeful of finding a decent one in the room. Sadly my hopes are often dashed - to the point of destroyed - if it’s one of those snake-like ones with a brush on the end of a wall mounted cylinder. Come on guys, those things went out with the Ark! A full length mirror wouldn’t go amiss either. Every girl knows it’s all about the shoes, so a hip-height mirror is of no use to anyone!

We all enjoy staying in hotels. Whatever the reason for the stay, it’s a change from the norm and a treat to be away from home. But even the most luxurious of hotels aren’t perfect and are often guilty of failing to live up to the most basic expectations. In their quest to be more retro, more funky or more whatever it is they’re striving to be, they sometimes border on the ridiculous. I recently stayed in a hotel in Frankfurt where the bathroom walls were made entirely of glass. Some may call it quirky, but I didn’t know where to look when my friend dropped the soap in the shower! Another hotel, through design rather than fault, had no toilet door. I’m no prude but some things should really remain private!

Yes, I definitely think I’d make a good hotel inspector. Move over Alex Polizzi.

TOP MUSIC CHARTS 01. 02. 03. 04. 05. 06.

Hello

Sorry

Love Yourself

Hotline Bling

What Do You Mean?

Here

Adele

Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber & Jaden Smith

Drake

Justin Bieber

Alessia Cara

07. 08. 09. 10. 11. 12.

Stitches

Same Old Love

When We Were Young

Stressed Out

Tennessee Whiskey

Focus

Shawn Mendes

Selena Gomez

Adele

Twenty One Pilots

Chris Stapleton

Ariana Grande

13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

Like I'm Gonna Lose You

The Hills

Meghan Trainor & John Legend

Weeknd

679

Fetty Wap & Remy Boyz

Locked Away

Shut Up And Dance

R. City & Adam Levine

Walk The Moon

Downtown

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Eric Nally, Melle Mel, Kool Moe Dee And Grandmaster Caz

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

Break Up In A Small Town Sam Hunt

Wildest Dreams Taylor Swift

Burning House

Adventure Of A Lifetime

All Eyes On You

Me, Myself & I

Cam

Coldplay

Meek Mill, Chris Brown & Nicki Minaj

G-Eazy & Bebe Rexha

25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

Strip It Down

Hit The Quan

Luke Bryan

iLoveMemphis

Don't

Bryson Tiller

Watch Me Silento

I Know What You Did Last Summer Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello

Great Is Thy Faithfulness Jordan Smith

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CHIEN CHU LEE Making a point with his pencil art.

Chien Chu Lee has always enjoyed art but it was his discovery of pencil carving that really sharpened his interest. Read his fascinating story about what lead him to this extraordinary craft and how he plans to set a world record with this somewhat unusual medium.

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Please tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Chien Chu Lee. I was born in 1973 and brought up in a suburban city in Taiwan. I work in a private enterprise. I usually spend my spare time off duty doing carvings. This is my hobby.

Tell us about your education.

I graduated from a junior college in Environmental Engineering.

How did you first become interested in miniature carvings?

I started out trying to make tiny figurines and toys with Chinese weapons for my children using bamboo sticks. Later I was inspired by the artist Dalton Ghetti, and changed my media to pencil and lead.

Did you learn this art or was it inborn?

I've always had a natural talent for art, until I took a serious interest in pencil carving.

I am a self-taught pencil carving artist who loves to explore and create wonderful pencil art.

I’ve been doing pencil carving since October 2010 and my interest and passion for pencil art grows stronger every day.

What other objects have you tried carving on besides pencil and why is pencil your best choice?

I have tried carving on bamboo sticks and the art of Chinese seal cutting.

The pencil is a common material and ubiquitous object but it also has many restrictions such as sizing and shape - not to mention that the pencil lead is so fragile. Once a pencil is broken it can never be fixed or mended so it's equally daunting and challenging work.

I like to focus on the micro areas first, then work my way out. It looks like a normal pencil, but with carving art, you will be amazed to see what it could turn out to be.

How do you choose the subjects for your carvings?

I get my inspirations from fairy tales, mythology, folklore, travelling, architectural design and more. I integrate the pencil art into daily life.

Is there any special kind of pencils you use or are they just ordinary ones?

They are common pencils found in stationery stores.

What are the tools that you use for your carvings?

My tools are pretty simple. I use a knife and flathead screwdriver to carve my pencils.

What was your first experiment?

The Chinese weapons were my first experiment, because it was conventional Chinese art.

Are some sculptures more difficult than others?

They all have some element of difficulty. I usually start with an idea in mind of what I want to carve. For example, if I decide on the Kuwait Towers, I will research exactly what they look like and will lightly sketch my design on the pencil lead. After that I start to whittle away, big chunks at first, and then the carving gets more and more refined.

I try not to over carve too quickly because it’s a subtractive process meaning I can only take away and not add on. If I make a mistake that’s too big I have to start over. The same thing applies if I break the pencil lead.

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What was your favorite project and why?

I don’t have a specific favorite. I love the challenge of any kind of project.

What was the biggest challenge you’ve faced during your career as an artist?

To get new ideas is the biggest challenge. However, if I believe that I’m able to create a masterpiece, I must combine my artistic sense and technical skills first.

How do you sell your work?

Up to this date, I have not sold my work.

Have you received any local or international recognition?

Because of my art, I have done interviews with newspapers, magazines and TV Channels, local and over the world.

What are your future plans?

1) I will do my best to do the pencil art well. Usually the pencil work takes a very long time to create. However, I think it will be worth it. I'm looking forward to the future.

2) To apply to the Guinness World Records about my pencil carvings. I plan to carve the letters A to Z into 0.5mm thick mechanical pencil lead.

What are you currently working on?

At the moment I’m working on a project about a monkey! 2016 is the year of the Monkey according to Chinese zodiac.

What are your other hobbies?

In my free time I love biking, music, playing baseball and travelling.

What is your advice to aspiring artists?

I fall in love with my work whenever I finish it. When I run into obstacles, I try to motivate myself by visioning the finished work. I tell myself not to give up knowing that it could become something great. I never know if I would carve the same thing again, so I work my best every time I try a new design. It means a lot to me to see how my pencils could transform from ordinary objects to something of value, all because of my art.

Your message for us at CityPages magazine: Thanks to CityPages, thank you all. I'm so blessed to have such support and to ensure that the international community can focus on Taiwan and the pencil art. I hope, through the magazine, to let more people know when someone is talking about pencil carving or about Taiwan.

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JANUARY Movie Releases DIRTY GRANDPA STORYLINE: Jason Kelly [Zac Efron] is one week away from marrying his boss’s uber-controlling daughter, putting him on the fast track for a partnership at the law firm. However, when the straight-laced Jason is tricked into driving his foul-mouthed grandfather, Dick [Robert De Niro], to Daytona for spring break, his pending nuptials are suddenly in jeopardy. Between riotous frat parties, bar fights, and an epic night of karaoke, Dick is on a quest to live his life to the fullest and bring Jason along for the ride. Ultimately, on the wildest journey of their lives, “dirty” Grandpa and his uptight grandson discover they can learn from one another and form the bond they never had.

DIRECTOR: Dan Mazer CAST: Zac Efron, Robert De Niro, Aubrey Plaza, Julianne Hough, Dermot Mulroney, Zoey Deutch GENRES: Comedy / Road Trip

RIDE ALONG 2

HAIL, CAESAR!

STORYLINE: Ben and James venture to

STORYLINE: Tells the comedic tale of

Miami to work on a case that involves a mysterious and dashing figure named Serge Pope.

DIRECTOR: Tim Story CAST: Kevin Hart, Ice Cube, Olivia Munn, Ken Jeong, Glen Powell, Benjamin Bratt GENRES: Action, Comedy, Crime

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Eddie Mannix, a fixer who worked for the Hollywood studios in the 1950s.

The story finds him at work when a star mysteriously disappears in the middle of filming.

DIRECTOR: Ethan Coen CAST: George Clooney, Josh Brolin, Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill, Tilda Swinton, Ralph Fiennes GENRES: Comedy, Period

LAMB

KUNG FU PANDA 3

THE FINEST HOURS

MOUNTAIN MEN

STORYLINE: A teenage girl survives STORYLINE: When Po's long-lost STORYLINE: On February 18, 1952, STORYLINE: Follows two estranged an alien invasion only to then search for her brother, who may or may not have been abducted by humanlooking extra-terrestrials. She is helped by a boy who might also be an alien in disguise.

panda father suddenly reappears, the reunited duo travels to a secret panda paradise to meet scores of hilarious new panda characters. But when the supernatural villain Kai begins to sweep across China defeating all the kung fu masters, Po must do the impossible—learn to train a village full of his fun-loving, clumsy brethren to become the ultimate band of Kung Fu Pandas!

a massive nor’easter struck New England, pummeling towns along the Eastern seaboard and wreaking havoc on the ships caught in its deadly path, including the SS Pendleton, a T-2 oil tanker bound for Boston, which was literally ripped in half, trapping more than 30 sailors inside its rapidly-sinking stern.

brothers, Topher (Tyler Labine of “Deadbeat") and Cooper (Chace Crawford of “Gossip Girl”), as they journey to a remote family cabin in the mountains to evict a squatter.

Buried resentment and bruised egos soon derail the plan and when the smoke clears they’ve destroyed their car and burned down the cabin, leaving them stranded in the cold Rocky Mountain winter.

DIRECTOR: J Blakeson CAST: Chloe Moretz, Nick Robinson, Alex

DIRECTOR: Alessandro Carloni CAST: Chloe Moretz, Nick Robinson, Alex

DIRECTOR: Craig Gillespie CAST: Chris Pine, Casey Affleck, Kyle Gallner,

DIRECTOR: Cameron Labine CAST: Chace Crawford, Tyler Labine, Britt

Roe, Maika Monroe, Maria Bello, Maggie Siff

Roe, Maika Monroe, Maria Bello, Maggie Siff

Holliday Grainger, Graham McTavish, Ben Foster Irvin, Ben Cotton, Christine Willes, Paralee Cook

GENRES: Drama, Teen, Sci-Fi, Adaptation

GENRES: Comedy, Family, Animation

GENRES: Drama, Thriller, Action

GENRES: Adventure, Drama, Comedy

400 DAYS

NORM OF THE NORTH

DEADPOOL

LAMB

STORYLINE: A psychological sci-fi film STORYLINE: A polar bear of many STORYLINE: Deadpool tells the origin STORYLINE: When a man meets a centering on four astronauts who are sent on a simulated mission to a distant planet to test the psychological effects of deep space travel. Locked away for 400 days, the crew’s mental state begins to deteriorate when they lose all communication with the outside world. Forced to exit the ship, they discover that this mission may not have been a simulation after all.

words, Norm’s greatest gripe is simple: there is no room for tourists in the Arctic. But when a maniacal developer threatens to build luxury condos in his own backyard, Norm does what all normal polar bears would do…he heads to New York City to stop it. With a cast of ragtag lemmings at his side, Norm takes on the big apple, big business and a big identity crisis to save the day.

DIRECTOR: Matt Osterman CAST: Brandon Routh, Caity Lotz, Ben Feld-

DIRECTOR: Trevor Wall DIRECTOR: Tim Miller CAST: Bill Nighy, Heather Graham, Ken Jeong, CAST: Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, T.J.

story of former Special Forces operative turned mercenary Wade Wilson, who after being subjected to a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers, adopts the alter ego Deadpool.

Armed with his new abilities and a dark, twisted sense of humor, Deadpool hunts down the man who nearly destroyed his life.

young girl in a parking lot he attempts to help her avoid a bleak destiny by initiating her into the beauty of the outside world. The journey shakes them in ways neither expects.

DIRECTOR: Ross Partridge CAST: Ross Partridge, Oona Laurence, Jess

man, Tom Cavanagh, Grant Bowler, Dane Cook Rob Schneider, Zachary Gordon, Loretta Devine

Miller, Gina Carano, Ed Skrein, Rachel Sheen

GENRES: Sci-Fi, Thriller

GENRES: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Adventure, Superhero GENRES: Drama

GENRES: Family, Animation, 3D

Weixler, Tom Bower

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JANUARY Book Releases The Things We Keep

My Time with the Kings: A Reporter's

Anna Forster, in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease at only thirty-eight years old, knows that her family is doing what they believe to be best when they take her to Rosalind House, an assisted living facility. She also knows there's just one another resident her age, Luke. What she does not expect is the love that blossoms between her and Luke even as she resists her new life at Rosalind House. As her disease steals more and more of her memory, Anna fights to hold on to what she knows, including her relationship with Luke.

Let Kathryn in, said Coretta Scott King to authorities. Three simple words that provided Kathryn Johnson, a reporter for The Associated Press s Atlanta bureau, unprecedented access to the grieving widow in the days following her husband s death.

Johnson was on her way to a movie date when word came from Memphis that Martin Luther King Jr. had been assassinated.

She immediately headed for the King home where, despite resistance from authorities on the scene, she was the only reporter allowed inside. Johnson s many years covering King and his family had earned her the trust to be a discreet, observant witness to the aftermath of a defining moment in American history.

Sally Hepworth

Recollection of Martin, Coretta and the Civil Rights Movement

Kathryn Johnson

Excellent Daughters: The Secret Lives of

City of Thorns: Nine Lives in the World’s Largest

Katherine Zoepf

Ben Rawlence

For more than a decade, Katherine Zoepf has lived in or traveled throughout the Arab world, reporting on the lives of women, whose role in the region has never been more in flux. Only a generation ago, female adolescence as we know it in the West did not exist in the Middle East. There were only children and married women. Today, young Arab women outnumber men in universities, and a few are beginning to face down religious and social tradition in order to live independently, to delay marriage, and to pursue professional goals. Hundreds of thousands of devout girls and women are attending Qur’anic schools—and using the training to argue for greater rights and freedoms from an Islamic perspective.

Situated hundreds of miles from any other settlement, deep within the inhospitable desert of northern Kenya where only thorn bushes grow, Dadaab is a city like no other. Its buildings are made from mud, sticks or plastic, its entire economy is grey, and its citizens survive on rations and luck. Over the course of four years, Ben Rawlence became a first-hand witness to a strange and desperate limbo-land, getting to know many of those who have come there seeking sanctuary. Among them are Guled, a former child soldier who lives for football; Nisho, who scrapes an existence by pushing a wheelbarrow and dreaming of riches; Tawane, the indomitable youth leader; and schoolgirl Kheyro, whose future hangs upon her education.

Young Women Who Are Transforming the Arab World

The Swans of Fifth Avenue

Your Heart Is a Muscle the Size of a Fist

Centered on two dynamic, complicated, and compelling protagonists—Truman Capote and Babe Paley—this book is steeped in the glamour and perfumed and smoky atmosphere of New York’s high society. Babe Paley—known for her highprofile marriage to CBS founder William Paley and her ranking in the International Best-Dressed Hall of Fame—was one of the reigning monarchs of New York’s high society in the 1950s.

Replete with gossip, scandal, betrayal, and a vibrant cast of reallife supporting characters, readers will be seduced by this startling new look at the infamous society swans.

The Flamethrowers meets Let the Great World Spin in this debut novel set amid the heated conflict of Seattle's 1999 WTO protests.

On a rainy, cold day in November, young Victor--a boyish, scrappy world traveler who's run away from home--sets out to sell marijuana to the 50,000 anti-globalization protestors gathered in the streets. It quickly becomes clear that the throng determined to shut the city down--from environmentalists to teamsters to anarchists--are testing the patience of the police, and what started as a peaceful protest is threatening to erupt into violence.

Melanie Benjamin

The Good Goodbye

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Refugee Camp

Sunil Yapa

The Only Pirate at the Party

Carla Buckley

Lindsey Stirling, Brooke S. Passey

Two cousins, Rory and Arden, lie unconscious in a hospital burn unit. The fire, which broke out in their shared college dorm room, killed another student, and the police want answers.

Tension between Rory and Arden’s parents was already at an alltime high before the fire, owing to a recent financial crisis and the decline of the family business. As the parents huddle anxiously in the waiting room, carefully avoiding the subject of their own unraveling relationships, disturbing truths come to light. This is the deeply moving story of a family’s struggle to hold together while their secrets threaten to tear them apart.

Electronic and dancing violinist Lindsey Stirling shares her unconventional journey in an inspiring memoir filled with the energy, persistence, and humor that have helped her successfully pursue a passion outside the box.

A classically trained musician gone rogue, Lindsey Stirling is the epitome of independent, millennial-defined success: after being voted off the set of America’s Got Talent, she went on to amass more than ten million social media fans, record two full-length albums, release multiple hits with billions of YouTube views, and tour sold-out venues across the world.

BOOK CLUB

ALL YOU NEED IS KILL

I

hope you all enjoyed your holidays and your New Year celebrations. To kick start 2016, I picked up something I wouldn't usually read but it was highly recommended by a family member. The Science Fiction novel All You Need Is Kill (2004) is written by Japanese Author Hiroshi Sakurazaka. He was born in Tokyo in 1970 and although he started off in Information Technology he soon realized that his love for video games and computers was what he was really passionate about. This led him to start writing science fiction novels and he debuted with a second place at the Super Dash Novel Rookie of the Year Award. Hiroshi remains one of Japan's most energetic writers of both light novels and adult sci-fi.

This book was originally written in Japanese and then later translated into English by Joseph Reader and Alexander O. Smith.

All You Need Is Kill (2004) was highly recognized ten

Nada Soliman years later when it was adapted into a motion picture starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt. It was widely marketed as Live. Die. Repeat.

The book takes place in the future when earth is attacked by an alien race. It’s a story of a Major with no combat experience who found himself in a time loop with time resetting every time the battle led to his death. Each time, he tries different techniques to try and win the battle as he thinks it is the only reason why time keeps repeating itself. In the end, he gets a message from a female solider ally who helps him get out of this time loop but he has to die so many times before that happens.

Meet Nada, our team member is simply a book savvy. Every month Nada picks her favourite book and shares with you its review. Please feel free to contact Nada to discuss your opinion or ask her opinion on your favourite book or author. nada.soliman@citypageskuwait.com

If you are a war junkie and love the adrenaline rush associated with it, this book is definitely for you. It’s a short book but so much fun and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did.

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OMG LIFE AUTOGRAPHER

to add to your wishlist

The Autographer wearable camera records daily life automatically.

It takes cues from sensors that measure temperature, motion, light, orientation, and location to register when surroundings change and then triggers the shutter button to capture key moments.

Some things are just ... better.

MICRO PHONE LENS EDGERTRONIC High-speed video cameras typically cost $25,000 or more. The Edgertronic costs one-fifth that price and is capable of shooting nearly 18,000 frames per second. To reduce costs, engineers stripped the components down to the essentials: image sensor, chip set, memory, and processor.

The six-millimeter Micro Phone Lens can magnify an object up to 60 times on a smartphone. It’s made from a silicone variation that is optically identical to glass and naturally sticky, so it selfadheres to a phone’s camera lens.

ROOLEN BREATH

The Breath is the first humidifier to automatically maintain optimal humidity in a room. Sensors detect ambient moisture levels, and the three-liter device changes its vapor output accordingly, keeping humidity at 40 to 55 percent.

DYNAMIC KEYBOARD

As a user types on the Android Dynamic Keyboard, the letters change size to make composing texts easier. After hitting a particular letter, the letters that most frequently follow grow larger. The size difference reduces the chance of hitting a wrong letter, which helps increase typing speed.

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QUIRKY ZEUS

WIRELESS SPORTS HOOP TRACKER With the Hoop Tracker watch, a basketball player can tally stats during training sessions. The watch receives data wirelessly from a paddle on the rim that registers successful shots and an accelerometer that senses the vibrations of misses.

The Zeus combination snow shovel and brush reduces trunk clutter. The two-foot-long brush serves as the polycarbonate shovel’s handle. It can also be detached and used on its own.

NEST PROTECT The Protect is a smart smoke alarm. Instead of immediately squealing when smoke levels increase, it first gives a vocal warning. If the source isn’t dangerous—say, a boisterous stir-fry—a user can wave a hand under the device to hush the alarm.

HP CHROMEBOOK 11 The Chromebook 11 charges via micro-USB, so users can carry one charger for multiple devices. Because the laptop uses so little power—it’s fanless and has an ARM processor—a 5.25V micro-USB charger is enough to do the job.

RUNTASTIC LIBRA The Libra scale doesn’t stop at displaying weight: It also calculates body fat, muscle mass, water content, and bone mass. Four areas on the scale’s glass plate generate electric current—the resistance it encounters from the body informs the results.

PARROT FLOWER Power With Flower Power, a user can monitor a plant’s health from afar. The batterypowered sensor records light, moisture, temperature, and other stats. It sends the data to a smartphone, where an app compares the info with the optimal conditions for that species and suggests how to provide care.

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2015 Technology News Recap Where to start? 2015 saw lots of news and innovations, a lot of acquisitions, great products and lots of hacking which made companies invest substantially in network security. Let’s start with Microsoft. It was a great year for them; they launched Windows 10, HoloLens and the amazing Surface Book plus the latest of their Surface tablet. Google on the other hand, launched YouTube Kids and now almost don’t need any flash player to play the videos on YouTube. You can also watch 360 degree movies on the YouTube platform. Google is also leading 16 companies that are aiming somehow to eliminate passwords once and for all. Intel revealed its new processor ‘Skylake’. The 5G mobile connection will be available in 2020 or maybe later. YouTube launched ‘YouTube Gaming’ the Twitch rival. China ended the ban on video game consoles by allowing companies to manufacture and sell video game consoles anywhere in the country. The majority of earthlings don’t have internet connectivity, 57% of us to be precise. And the most interesting thing to happen this year? IBM allowed Chinese Government Officials to look at its source code to make sure the product is secure and safe and to win more contracts with the country. And another interesting thing, Western Digital acquired SanDisk, the flash memory giant. There were also lots of great breakthroughs and amazing products.

2016 will be a year full of surprises with unbelievable gadgets and breakthroughs. We can`t wait to see what the companies and innovators have up their sleeves!

٢٠١٥ ‫موجز أخبار التقنية لعام‬ ‫ العديد من‬،‫ كان هناك العديد من األخبار واإلبتكارات‬٢٠١٥ ‫من أين نبدأ؟ في عام‬ ‫اإلستحواذ على الشركات والمنتجات الرائعة وكذلك اإلختراقات األمنية العديدة التي‬ ،‫ لنبدأ أوال مع مايكروسوفت‬.‫جعلت الشركات تستثمر كثيرًا في حماية الشبكات‬ ‫ وهولولينس‬١٠ ‫ أطلقوا نظام التشغيل ويندوز‬.‫فقد كانت سنة رائعة لهم‬ ‫ قوقل من ناحية‬.‫والجهازالمذهل سورفيس بوك وأحدث جهاز لوحي لهم سورفيس‬ ‫أخرى أطلقوا خدمة يوتيوب كيدز واستغنوا تقريبًا عن الحاجة لمشغل فالش بالير‬ ٣٦٠ ‫ كما يمكنك مشاهدة األفالم بزوايا تصوير‬.‫لتشغيل الفيديو على اليوتيوب‬ ‫ شركة تسعى من للقضاء على‬١٦ ‫ كما أن قوقل تتزعم‬.‫درجة على منصات اليوتيوب‬ ‫ أما الجيل الخامس‬."‫ إنتل كشفت عن معالجها الجديد "سكايليك‬.‫كلمةالمرور لألبد‬ ‫ يوتيوب أطلقت خدمة‬.‫ وربما أبعد من ذلك‬٢٠٢٠ ‫من اإلتصاالت سيكون متوفرا في‬ ‫ الصين سمحت أخيرا ببيع أجهزة األلعاب‬.‫"يوتيوب جيمنغ" منافسا لخدمة تويتش‬ -‫ أما شركة آي‬.‫وسمحت لجميع الشركات بتصنيعها وبيعها بأي مكان في الصين‬ ‫أم فقد سمحت للحكومة الصينية رسميا بفحص الشفرة البرمجية للتأكد من‬-‫بي‬ ‫ ومن أكثر األخبار الملفتة هو استحواذ شركة‬.‫األمان والحماية وربح العقود مع الصين‬ ‫ العام الحالي‬.‫ويسترن يونيون على عمالق صناعة ذاكرات فالش شركة سانديسك‬ ‫ اليمكننا اإلنتظارلنرى ماذا‬.‫ حتما سيكون مليء بالمفاجآت واإلختراعات المذهلة‬٢٠١٦ .‫تخبئ لنا الشركات والمخترعون‬

Yousif AlSaeed Yousif holds a BSc. in Information Technology & Computing Degree and is a Teacher and Software Developer. He loves sharing the latest technology news and gadgets with people.

Yousif believes that behind everything in the tech-world is a great story. He spends most of his time reading technology blogs and self development.

Saad Almseikan A burger lover who works as a Computer Technician during the day. Saad has a curious mind that likes to discover everything new that's related to computers, hardware, gadgets and technology.

You'll most probably find him holding a burger while playing with a new gadget. He is 27 years old, loves Mixed Martial Arts. Music is what keeps him going especially Rock & Roll.

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Light-based processor - what a breakthrough!

Researchers from the University of Colorado have created what they say is the first full-fledged processor to transmit data using light instead of electricity. They have successfully combined electrons and photons within a single-chip microprocessor.

Code 451. Unavailable for legal reasons.

The researchers packed two processor cores with more than Let`s welcome this new HTTP status code to the family.

70 million transistors and 850 photonic components onto This new code is used when something is taken down a 3x6 millimetre chip. They showed that the chip had a for legal reasons or maybe a censorship. Status codes bandwidth density of 300 gigabits per second per square are used when requesting and transmitting data over the millimeter, about 10 to 50 times greater than packaged internet. You normally don’t encounter the codes unless electrical-only microprocessors currently on the market. something goes wrong - the infamous 404 error for a page This technology is going to make data centers more green. not found, for example. The Internet Engineering Steering Data centers consumed about 91 billion kilowatt-hours of Group (IESG), a group of engineers who help review and electricity in 2013 - about 2 percent of the total electricity update the standards used on the internet, has approved a consumed in the United States. This is an amazing new status code: 451, to be used when access is denied as a development that opens the door to ultrafast, low-power consequence of legal demands. data crunching.

Google slimmed down to become Alphabet!

Download 600Mbit/s with your smartphone.

On August 10 2015, Larry Page (former Google CEO) Qualcomm unveils a powerful new Snapdragon 820 announced plans to create a new public holding company processor.

This flagship processor is more than a called Alphabet. The company consists of a collection of smartphone chip.

Qualcomm aims to bring it to cars, companies, the largest of which is Google. The new Google home appliances and Internet of Things. Snapdragon will focus on its works which is internet business like 820 consists of X12 LTE modem capable of 600Mbit/s search, maps, YouTube, Android and advertisements. Do downlink and 150Mbit/s uplink.

Fortunately, more than 60 you remember Google’s self-driving car project? Now companies are already planning to use it - that’s mean we it’s a part of Alphabet not Google. This is the idea of won’t have to wait for a long time.

Alphabet, to spin off some businesses from Google.

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Sand BAKHAM

Bringing her imaginary w Here at CityPages, we’ve always been impressed by Sandra Bakhamian’s talents; she designs the wonderful illustrations for our monthly ‘City Guide’ segment. But her career as a fashion illustrator is what really makes her tick - and she loves to draw women with attitude!

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dra MIAN

world to life.

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Hi, please tell us a bit about yourself.

I was born in France and grew up in Beirut.

I started to learn how to draw when I was a little kid. My whole life has been involved with art. I've always been obsessed with fashion magazines, runways and fashion campaigns. I was constantly drawing from them and dreaming about the day I would work in the fashion industry. My passion for fashion became stronger and stronger.

I worked as a graphic designer and illustrator while I was completing my bachelor degree, but after graduation, and once work started flowing in, I realised I could quit my day job as a designer and illustrate full time. This was a dream come true.

It's crazy how fast things have gone since 2012. That’s when I posted an illustration on my social media for the first time. I never actually thought I would be able to do what I love doing for a living.

Today, I dedicate all my time to drawing fashion illustrations for bloggers, fashion designers, magazines and luxury boutiques. I work with L'armoire de Lana, Une Libanaise a Paris, L'atelier C by Cherine Khadra, Santiago (one of the biggest billboards I've ever done), CityPages Kuwait magazine (where every month illustrations of different cities are printed), Abir Achkar Fashion House, Beauty Slip Kuwait, Pearl and Rubies, Trend de Moi

by Nermine, Leanna's Boutique and Essie.

My best days are those spent creating in my studio.

For those of us who don't know, what does a fashion illustrator do?

Combining a background in art and fashion, a fashion illustrator creates illustrations of clothes and accessories for different purposes.

Computer skills and an understanding of digital software illustration tools are increasingly necessary. Illustrators may apply different drawing and illustrating techniques to express fashion designs in detail, including colors and fabric textures. They might use realistic representations or more abstract sketches.

I’ve never met fashion illustrators who do the exact same thing. Everyone’s career is so different. I think fashion is a pretty competitive industry, but also very huge. There is room for all kinds of fashion illustrators.

Tell us about your education.

I studied hospitality and tourism management at the American University of Science and Technology, but always adored drawing.

Meanwhile, I took some fashion courses and graphic design courses. So whenever I could, I would draw. I have been drawing since I was a little kid, and it hasn’t really stopped since. As I got older, I discovered more and more how much I liked to illustrate fashion.

I knew if I did not chase my dream and take action in my 20s, my dream may never come to fruition.

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Tell us more about your artistic experiences. When did you develop an interest in art? Did you always have these amazing skills, or did you take classes in order to refine your craft?

Art and fashion were my passion since I was a little girl. I also had a lot of training in high school. I continued to pursue art, then I discovered the work of some famous fashion illustrators; that's when I decided to focus on fashion illustrations. I took some painting and drawing courses, as well as online fashion courses.

Many techniques are used for fashion illustrations but the most important thing is to have your own style in this business. I sometimes have trouble finding my own style (still, after 4 years), but I notice I'm getting better at it! Illustrations can be drawn on photoshop, illustrator, 3D programs, and sketching by hand. And yes I do things old school! I think an illustration looks much more interesting with less photoshop. Did you know that Karl Lagerfeld still hand sketches everything?

I like to experiment with different styles

and different products such as mascara brushes and lipsticks, but I also like to keep areas white in my illustrations. That's one thing that's my own style for sure. However, I'm still swinging between black and white sketches which is what I do best and a more realistic style.

One creative must-have is a pencil and a fine liner. The latest additions to my toolkit are the copic markers; they changed the way I draw.

Why did you choose fashion/beauty illustrations?

Oh, that was very natural. Illustrations are an imaginary world. I love to draw feminine and delicate illustrations and I’ve always been attracted by faces, especially eyes and lips. I remember filling pages and pages of eyes and dresses when I was young. Besides, fashion has always been a great source of inspiration for me. I often incorporate some fashion accessories that fit the spirit of my women in my illustrations. The women that I draw are

strong, sexy and confident but sophisticated and classy too - women with attitude!

What was your first job out of college and how did you land that position?

My first job was a graphic designer. They hired me after a logo design test and a personal interview with the director. He liked my passion for design and the imaginary world.

Your work is so beautiful! Tell us a little bit about your creative process.

How do you take something from concept to reality?

Thank you!

For a personal illustration I used to think a lot - maybe too much sometimes - before starting a new piece; which colors, the woman’s face, techniques. I start looking for inspiration on the internet. This process can last several hours until I ‘click’. Then I actually start building my illustration by mixing photos and different styles together. The most difficult part is to stick to what I decided at the beginning! Then the drawing begins. I draw most of the time with a pencil or a pigment liner - I draw everything with it! It's definitely the most important thing on my desk. After that I add some colors with the copic markers or I scan my drawing and start to colorize it digitally in Photoshop. But when I work for a client, I get a brief that I need to stick to. It’s the subject, colors and techniques, so it’s more simple.

What kind of projects did work on in the beginning?

In the beginning I mostly worked for fashion bloggers and did private portrait commissions.

After about a year I found myself with nonstop work. I wasn’t earning a fortune but I’d never been happier and I knew I was going to do this forever. Now I just work on things that are really good opportunities and try not to work with too many similar things. Your freedom may create something beautiful.

In the fashion world, I have also been working on big projects including logos, website design, billboards and branding.

What are your inspirations?

Inspiration can be unexpected at times but my work is mainly inspired by vintage finds, old photographs, Paris streets, travelling, magazines - and loads and loads of coffee!!

The collaborations with magazines – tell the readers how they work. Are they a regular collaboration or one-time pieces?

I have had several collaborations in the past with magazines, but most of the time it’s a onetime piece. However, it's been two years now that I've been collaborating with CityPages. I hope you enjoy discovering a new city every month!

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What’s your favorite way to blow off steam?

Workout or go out for coffee with a friend.

If you could have lunch with any woman, who would it be and what would you order?

Megan Hess, a famous fashion illustrator! I would order something very light and refined, with a touch of couture like her illustrations.

I wish I knew how to...

Design a car.

What’s the received?

best

advice

you've

ever

Believe in yourself and go for it!

How would you describe your personal style in three phrases?

It's always hard to describe your own style. Right now I’m in a constant state of searching, trying different materials and new techniques. I combine the digital with the traditional. Also, my style varies slightly depending on what I’m drawing and for whom; but whatever stylization I try, it always stays elegant and refined.

When you're not working, what are your hobbies?

I like to visit new places and exhibitions. I love shopping! I think shopping might be one of my inspirations as this activity can let you see a lot of different things. From window displays to people walking down the streets, I love all the little details.

Can you tell us about any future project you are working on?

2015 was a phenomenal year for me! 2016 is here now and already some amazing things are happening! Some projects that I have been working on from last year will come out this year and I look forward to the many opportunities that are coming my way. I’m working on a new range of products, from scarves to laptop cases!

And this is just the beginning…

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Fashion Brand: Jookh @jookh.kw Photographer: Hamad Al-Qaoud- @hamadalqaoud Location: Casa Nagham @casanagham Models: Lailah @its.lailah Mohamad AlShishtari @modalshishtari

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October, 2015

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October, 2015

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The Force Awakens Fashion HOW STAR WARS HAS INFLUENCED THE WORLD OF FASHION

W

hether you’re a diehard Star Wars fan, or you just went to watch the movie to see what all the fuss was about; or maybe you’re not a Star Wars geek at all but just curious about fashion; either way, you can't help but be aware of the nine times Star Wars appeared on this season’s runways.

Niki Jelveh Niki is a fashion enthusiast; passionate about fashion and forever eager to learn about the changes taking place in the fashion world.

Niki aims to encourage today’s society to not just follow trends, but create unique styles and have the confidence to stand out from the crowd.

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Rodarte’s collection on the catwalk in 2014 was memorable not just for the clothes covered in Star Wars prints, but also for those light installations on the ground that people kept tripping over! This was a huge fashion force that awoke some designers and inspired them to bring the Star Wars characters into their collections.

London-based Canadian womenswear fashion designer Edeline Lee, is known for her aesthetically sophisticated signature of structured and bold color contrasts. Also known for her clean modernist lines and innovative shapes, she gave life and a taste of style to our beloved Stormtroopers.

Yohji Yamamoto is an award winning influential Japanese fashion designer based in Tokyo and Paris. He is known for the avant-garde spirit in his clothing. His Star Wars collection was feminine, chic and classy but included an out-of-this-world look for the mysterious looking Darth Vader. Imagine going to the dark side looking fresh - who wouldn’t want that?

Kanye West’s first collection was a collaboration with Adidas Originals which featured his sisterin-law Kylie Jenner and her friend Bella Hadid.

It channeled Padme Amidala, played by Natalie Portman. However, this fashion show received much criticism from fashion editorials and guest members.

David Koma, a Georgian fashion designer based in London, UK, captured the flashy elegance in C-3PO by designing a chic, circuitry skirt from Mugler worn

by Jessica Stam.

And how can we forget Chewbacca and all his fuzz?

Dior’s fall 2015 collection was a tribute to this legendary Wookiee warrior.

Yoda with a touch of fashion, at Baja East with or without a lightsaber we know who would win a fashion fight!

Richard Saturnino Owens, known as Rick Owens, is an American fashion designer as well as a furniture designer from Portville, California. He has done a fantastic job recreating the outer space squad with his own unique touch on the runway in his fall collection 2015.

Alexander Wang, an American fashion designer beautifully channeled the fearless Princess Leia in a long, white and sleek dress.

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FASHION INSPIRATIONS FOR HER

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FOR HIM

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THE MEANING OF

TRUE STYLE

Happy New Year to all of you!

This is how it works:

This year, I will start to talk in more detail about your look and your outfit in general.

If you know your body shape, the right season and your personality clothes, then you are ready to go shopping and buy whatever you need. These details can change your entire outfit. The pictures show some examples of common mistakes. Take care not to fall for these mistakes!

Most ladies want their style to be unique but forget to take care of the details. By details, I mean the need to choose the correct colour that enhances your skin tone. You also need to wear the right cut for your body shape; not forgetting the personality of the clothes! It helps a lot to develop your choice.

When we go shopping most of us look to our body instead of our face. But in the fitting room, you need to look to your face - especially your eyes - not to the outfit. Your look needs to work for you, not the other way round.

“Style is saying who you are without talking”

Shaikha Jumaa For booking appointment contact #965-94080449 or email info@stylecodekw.com Instagram: @style_coach_shaikha

After shopping for new clothes, some of my clients say “I tried it on in the fitting room, but now it doesn’t look good on me”. Even knowing it doesn’t look good, they still keep it! I have to ask them: “What does style mean to you?”

Most of them say the same thing: “Style refers to me, to myself, to my look. I don’t care what others say about my look”.

The most important thing to remember when buying clothes is to look in the mirror. If you look to your outfit first, that means it doesn’t work for you. However, if you look to your face and eyes, it means the outfit works.

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Style is about what you wear to feel comfortable and to be the ‘true you’. Wearing the right outfit gives you more confidence and the right cut and colours can do wonders for your look.

So how do you look your best?

The first step in maximizing your appearance is to get a professional image consultation. This will help you manage your total appearance to create a first impression which will not only impress others with the ‘packaging’, but also get them to pay attention to you and what you have to offer.

As a special gift to you, I have an offer just for January 2016: Image consultation is now 65 KD Style Update workshop is now 25 KD Contact me now to arrange an appointment.

In my next article I will talk about Shaikha’s Tips.

Don’t miss it!

ADOPT A STREET PRINCESS @ADOPT_A_STREET_PRINCESS

www.facebook.com/adoptastreetprincess

Dear CityPages Readers, Happy New Year! I wish you all a prosperous 2016 with much joy and happiness with your beloved pets.

It’s been a tough month at the @AASP_Shelter. With such cold weather reaching Kuwait, you can imagine how much colder it has been at our shelter in the desert, and the dogs are living on sand with single layer iron house walls.

We’ve had a lot of kind support with donations of electrical heaters and blankets for the dogs. However, the electricity was not able to cope with the heaters and it blew the electrical box for a few days until we could get it fixed. The blankets also require a constant cycle of laundry to keep them clean, which is putting our staff under great pressure.

For this and many other reasons, we have decided to launch a monthly Volunteer’s Day campaign. We will be asking volunteers to come for 5 hours for one day in the month (weekend), and all transport to and from the city will be provided by @adopt_a_street_princess. Lunch will also be included. With these volunteers (preferably people comfortable around dogs) we can help give the shelter a big clean and do all the other little jobs that need fixing.

If you are interested in getting involved or would like more information, please send a WhatsApp message to +96569983197.

In other news, we held another very successful Adoption Day at @animall_kw on the 26th December with a great turn out, despite the holidays. From the event we managed to find four new loving homes for our street princess dogs! So stay tuned for the date of our next event so you can pass by, chat, play and make some new dog friends.

This month we also managed to send another dog to Germany. Megan will stay at our foster home in Munich until a new long term home is found. We wish Megan a great time in Germany and all the best for the future.

Until next month.

Nathalie Veys Founder of AASP

Cindy. Mini pin 5 month female

January's 3 lovely dogs are:

Male and female puppies 2.5 month

Ceasar male. 1 year CITYPAGESKUWAIT.COM

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Gap Holiday 15 Dress to Impress. Perfect for holiday gatherings, Gap’s newest collection offers pieces in an array of festive prints and solids. Winter Whites replace fall’s Black Texture with tones ranging from khaki and olive to almond and cement. Gap’s 1969 denim is also dressed to impress for the season with coated fits, elegant embroidery, and embellishments for women, men, kids, and baby.

INNOVATIS PLASM HAIR: ‫تعلن شركة سبا اند مور المتخصصة بكل ما‬ ‫يتعلق بالتجميل والعناية عن اطالق مجموعة‬ INNOVATIS PLASM HAIR ‫جديده كليًا لعالج الشعر‬ ‫حيث تعمل مكوناته النشطه والمستخلصه من‬ ‫االلماس واللؤلؤ االسود على حماية وتعزيز وإعادة‬ ،‫إحياء الشعر مما يمنحه إشراق وقوه ال مثيل لها‬ ‫ٌيمنح هذا المنتج لمراكز التجميل والعيادات التي‬ ‫لديها تقنيه عاليه في كيفية معالجة الشعر‬ ‫وسيتم عمل تدريب خاص للمنتج خالل االيام‬ .‫المقبلة في اكاديمية سبا اند مور‬

Spa & More Company, Specialized in furnishing and equipping beauty centers, clinics and Spa, announces launching the new hair treatment line (INNOVATIS PLASM) where the mentioned product components contains the diamond and black pearl that works effectively to protect and revitalize the hair to be healthier and shine.

A special training session will be provided to INNOVATIS clients.

INNOVATIS BTX HAIR: ‫اطلقت شركة سبا اند مور خالل االونه االخيره‬ ‫ المنتج‬INNOVATIS ‫بإتفاق مع الشركة العالميه‬ ‫ حيث‬، INNOVATIS BTX HAIR ‫العالجي الفريد من نوعه‬ ‫والمركزه تتخصص‬ ُ ‫أن مكونات هذا المنتج العاليه‬ ‫بإصالح خاليا الشعر التالفه وتضيف مواد مغذيه‬ ‫ كما انه البد‬.‫تمنح شعرك مظهر اكثر صحة وتألق‬ ‫ان ٌيمنح هذا المنتج لمراكز التجميل والعيادات‬ ‫التي لديها تقنيه عاليه في كيفية معالجة الشعر‬ ‫وسيتم عمل تدريب خاص للمنتج خالل االيام‬ .‫المقبلة في اكاديمية سبا اند مور‬

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In agreement with the international company INNOVATIS, Spa & More started launching recently the new hair treatment line INNOVATIS BTX HAIR, As the BTX concentrated components works on maintaining the damaged hair plus adding a rich nutrients that makes the hair looks healthier and shine.

This product is to be granted for the clinics and professional beauty centers only, as it needs a high-tech use.

A special training session will be provided to INNOVATIS clients.

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‫‪BCBGMAXAZRIA‬‬ ‫‪PRESENTS:‬‬

‫‪THE ICONCLASTS‬‬

‫الدكتور مايكل آبا يطلق مستحضرات "‪ Apa Beauty‬للعناية باألسنان والفم‬ ‫أطلق دكتور المشاهير مايكل آبا مجموعة مستحضرات مميزة "‪ ‘Apa Beauty‬تعتبر أول منتجات مخصصة للعناية بصحة‬ ‫الفم و جمال األسنان‪ .‬وقد صممت هذه المستحضرات الرائدة لتعزيز جمال االبتسامة وصحة الفم‪ ،‬حيث أنها تتميز‬ ‫بالعالج اللطيف الذي يتيح استخدامها يوميًا‪ ،‬ويمكن بالتالي أن تكون جزءًا من نمط الحياة اليومي ألي شخص‪ .‬ويعمل‬ ‫الدكتور آبا من خالل منهجية تجمع بين أحدث ما توصل إليه العلم في مجال الصحة الفموية‪ ،‬مع أجود أنواع المكونات‬ ‫والتصميم الفاخر للمنتجات التجميلية‪.‬‬

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I GOT THIS

adidas launches a new campaign to connect with active women.

Entitled I GOT THIS, the campaign adopts a strong, bold and powerful tonality across channels, including retail, digital and social. The aim is to grab her attention and provide authentic, visceral and compelling content that enables the athletic woman to live her active life her way, across multiple training methods.

The campaign launches in January, and taps into the insight that active women are always on, and committed to their training routines all year round. Featuring the Racer Back Bra, Ultimate Tights 2.0 and multiple other key pieces that are set to become staples in her wardrobe, I GOT THIS showcases the best of adidas.

‫كالفين كالين راوند‬

‫ "كالفين كالين راوند" الرقيقة ذات التصميم‬.‫كالفين كالين تقدم لكم ساعة جديدة‬ .‫الشفاف‬ ‫ تكشف‬،‫ ُمز ّي ٍن بالتفاصيل الهندسية الدائرية التي تتضاءل بشكل تدريجي‬،‫مع حزام ب ّراق‬ .‫هذه الساعة االستثنائية أجزاء من المعصم ثم تغطي أجزاء أخرى بطريقة جذابة ومثيرة‬ "‫ مغطاة بـ "الستانليس ستيل‬،‫وتأتي هذه الساعة التي تعد قطعة فنية فائقة الدقة‬ ‫" باللون األصفر الذهبي أو الوردي‬pvd" ‫(الفوالذ المقاوم للصدأ) المصقول بطريقة الـ‬ .‫ مع واجهة لألرقام سوداء أو فضية اللون أم على على شكل مرآة‬،‫الذهبي‬ .12 ‫وتكتمل هذه التحفة الفنية مع شعار "كالفين كالين" األنيق تحت مكان الساعة‬ ‫ بار‬3 ‫ساعة "كالفين كالين رواند" مقاومة للماء لحدود‬

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From The Last Day Of The #‫ الطبخ_اخلنني‬Event At Chef Station

At The Porsche Road Safety Program for Schools 2016 In the Car Museum City Kuwait Historical, Vintage & Classic Cars Museum

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At The Launch Of Frederique Constant Horological Smartwatch

At The Premier Sport Academy Winter Festival Of Football and Carnival At Bayan Park

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Starbucks Gives Back to its Middle East Communities Fitness Convention event held for the 8th Coca-Cola Celebrates year at Al Corniche #LOVELIFE With New Club Designed Cans

Starbucks, the leading coffee house operator, has successfully added value to people’s lives across the Middle East and North Africa for the past years. Over the years, the brand has set the benchmark for Corporate Social Responsibility among private businesses; giving back to communities it operates in, through an overarching executable strategy that focuses on making this world a better place. Environmental Stewardship, Creating Pathways to Opportunity and Ethical Sourcing are the three key areas that the brand concentrates on.

From an Environmental Stewardship standpoint, Starbucks aims at pioneering sustainable solutions such as: Green Building solutions, Recycling, and Water and Energy Conservation, and was able to succeed in creating a significant impact on the entire food service industry. The effectiveness of these programs can largely be contributed to partnerships forged with local communities and organisations.

Creating Pathways to Opportunity for young people has been a key policy for Starbucks. By mobilizing partners (employees), customers, civic leaders and non-profit organizations through programs such as the Global Month of Service, the BADIR program and Community Stores, every neighbourhood where the brand operates has an opportunity to empower themselves.

Last, but not least, Ethical Sourcing of coffee beans has been a key focus for Starbucks. To this end, the brand has adopted a holistic approach that includes responsible purchasing practices, farmer support and forest conservation programs. This approach is grounded in Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices: a comprehensive set of more than 200 social, economic and environmental indicators, with quality as a key requirement. For over 15 years, Starbucks has worked with Conservation International to ensure the ethical sourcing of coffee. In 2015 Starbucks has verified 99% of its coffee as being ethically sourced.

“Starbucks is a business with a social conscience,” says Rana Shaheen, regional communications and CSR manager of Starbucks Coffee MENA. “All its initiatives are developed to directly contribute to the surrounding communities.

From the farming communities around the world to the neighborhoods that are homes to our stores, we believe we have a responsibility to give back to the people we work with and serve.”

“Our community engagement programs are designed to respond to the specific needs of every community we operate in. Time and again, we have formed relationships with likeminded organisations to magnify the moments of connection that remain at the foundation of our business,” added Rana.

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Al Corniche Club Kuwait was host to international health and fitness experts for the seventh consecutive year. The four speakers delivered seminars to a wide range of Kuwait’s health and fitness professionals and major players in the industry on how to improve the awareness of health and wellness in Kuwait and offer valuable insights of how to build on their expertise and advance their businesses.

These presenters included: Frank Furness, Frank Furness, Lesley Aitkens, and Peter Edward.

Delegates at the conference came from many different health clubs in Kuwait including Golds Gym, Radisson SAS, Spark Athletic, Sheraton, Costa Del Sol, Challenge Health Club, Gust University, Private Trainers, Al Corniche Members and Al Corniche Team. The event was sponsored by Lexus Kuwait, Al Sayer Group.

Simon Frith Business Director Lexus Kuwait said “We are pleased to have offered Al-Corniche club members test-drive experience of the top luxury Lexus models.

Over the last 12 months Lexus has brought more of that experience to its customers launching some incredible new models. The RC and RCF revolutionized the sports coupe segment, setting a new benchmark for the Luxury high performance car segment.

Earlier in 2015 Lexus entered the cross-over segment with the all new NX the ultimate premium crossover offering both coolness and supercharged capability, and in no time came the great news - the NX took home the award for ‘Best Compact Premium SUV’ at the 2015 Middle East Car of the Year Awards.”

Coca-Cola Light announces the second series of its customized Coke Light cans, designed by four passionate artists across the region. The limited edition designs by Emma Boutras, Fidda Al Hussan, Faisal Al Fouzan & Raha Moharrak have been released across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Following the successful launch of the first series of #LoveLife cans in May 2015, the artists had the opportunity to freely express their life journeys through their illustrated designs. #LoveLife cans represent different ways to love life and enjoy the moment.

Tolga Cebe, Head of Marketing Coca-Cola Middle East said about the initiative “We are very pleased to be collaborating once more with inspirational Arab designers, and encouraging them to share what it is that they love most about life. We hope to build on the huge success of the first installment of the #lovelife campaign with the new designs, and hope to once again inspire the Arab region to celebrate with Coke Light as they reaffirm why they #lovelife.”

The four can designs symbolize the artists concepts, and comprise: an image of a shoe, which represents the footsteps we take to transform ourselves; the ability we have to control our feelings from within, demonstrated by bottles within a bottle; the positive diversity and ethnicities captured by photography; and achieving ambitions, depicted by an image of Mount Everest.

One of the designers, Emma Boutras believes that: “Every step we take evolves us to a different person from yesterday. Being a shoe designer, the footsteps on the can are my symbolic representation of my love for life - our footsteps transform us.”

Another of the artists, Fida Al Hussan, stated: “My love for life is the fact that we have the ability to control and navigate our feelings and thoughts to our will. The fact that we can choose to forget the past, fully live the present and shape our future, as obvious as it sounds, is something that amazes me.”

Coke Light actively supports diversity, which is the theme Faisal Al Fouzan identified with his love of life: “My love for life is the positive diversity around us. The mix of ethnicities, backgrounds that make the way for a mix of colors, shapes that we sometimes overlook in our busy life. This is what I try to capture in my photography.”

Raha Moharrak, the first Saudi woman to conquer Mount Everest, has expressed her way to love life on the can with a mountain, which she describes as “a universal icon of achieving something and a personal goal of climbing Mount Everest.” #LoveLife celebrates the positive side of life to inspire people across the region. New designed cans will be available every three months in stores across MENA, searching for unique talents and ambitions.

Caribou Coffee Executive Leaders hold a International Franchise Conference in Dubai.

The executive leaders of Caribou Coffee around the world have held a conference in Dubai to discuss the reinforcement of the leading position of the brand across promising markets following the multiple success stories achieved by the brand.

Mr. Michael Tattersfield, President and CEO of Caribou Coffee Company inc. during his speech acknowledged the progress of the brand over the years in the region and set the strategic pillars for the development of Caribou Coffee for the following years.

Mr. Hamad Al Sayer, Managing Director of Al Sayer Franchising, the exclusive franchisee of Caribou Coffee in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as the leading team of Caribou Coffee International stated that the conference highlighted multiple success stories achieved by brand around the world, in addition to announcing the company’s future plans following its mission to enhance and further establish its presence and position as a market leader in new and existing promising markets catering to different tastes.

During the conference the participants had the opportunity to discuss the developments in the Coffee, Beverage & food industry around the globe as well as keeping up with the pace of meeting the arising needs and tastes of Caribou Coffee’s guests and visitors through diversifying their menu selection to create harmony between great taste and unique flavors.

Mr. Hamad Al Sayer has emphasized the success of the brand in the Middle East and North Africa and its wide expansion across with stores located in key malls and dining complexes, and vibrant shopping centers.

He reaffirmed that the company consider the employees as their most valuable asset and as real contributors to the success of the brand.

They are continuously making sure they provide the signature flavors the customers love, supported by distinguished service.

Caribou Coffee’s stores across Kuwait and UAE are known for their beautiful earthy interiors, exceptional architecture and warm classy furniture. The stores are equipped with state of the art setup to bring the customers a delightful and pleasant experience.

movie for free at Grand Cinemas!

Stemming from its wide range of valuable privileges specially designated to its Premier Banking customers, Burgan Bank, in collaboration with Grand Cinemas, recently invited its Premier Banking customers to watch the first screening of the new “Star Wars – The Force Awakens” movie for free, at the most luxurious VIP movie theatre – Grand Class VIP at Al Hamra Tower.

Premier customers had the choice of reserving their seats to any of the three shows that were exclusively available for them that day. They enjoyed watching the movie in 3D, which added a new dimension of entertainment filled with excitement and anticipation while watching the movie, as well as enjoying the mini buffet at the Grand Class VIP lounge.

Burgan Bank is committed to rewarding its premier customers with exclusive offers that are tailor-made for their own lifestyle and aspirations, and will continue accommodating optimal customer convenience with the provision of added value benefits inside and outside Kuwait.

To find more about Premier Banking benefits and latest promotions, customers are to visit their nearest Burgan Bank branch or contact the call center on 1804080, or visit the bank’s website on www.burgan.com.

‫لن تكون األمور أفضل من ذلك؛ فمع الفوز‬ ‫ وأيضًا‬،‫للمصنّعين‬ ُ ‫المستحق ببطولة العالم‬ ً ‫ فض‬،‫ببطولة العالم للسائقين‬ ‫ال عن ألقاب‬ ‫الوصافة التي أحرزها كل من لويس هاميلتون‬ ‫ حقق فريق‬،‫ونيكو روزبيرغ في عدة منافسات‬ ‫" إنجازات‬1 ‫ بتروناس للفورموال‬AMG ‫"مرسيدس‬ ‫غير مسبوقة في عالم رياضات السيارات على‬ ‫ تحتفل‬،‫ ومع نهاية الموسم‬.2015 ‫مدار العام‬ ‫ باألداء االستثنائي لهذا الفريق‬AMG-‫مرسيدس‬ ‫ إصدار بطل‬:‫ هو‬،‫المميز مع طراز حصري خاص‬ ‫ بتروناس من‬AMG ‫ لفريق مرسيدس‬2015 ‫العالم‬ ‫ والذي يمزج بين إطاللة‬،A 45 4MATIC ‫سيارة‬ ‫ مع‬،‫ المع ّبرة بأسهم النصر الفضية‬1 ‫الفورموال‬ .‫طيف شامل ومحدد من المعدات الفريدة‬ ‫ فمع باقة التصميم‬..‫األسهم الفضية لكل يوم‬ ‫ تأتي العجالت الكبيرة‬،‫االنسيابي المبتكرة‬ ‫ إنش والخصائص الفائقة إلصدار بطل‬19 ‫بقياس‬ ،‫ بتروناس‬AMG ‫ لفريق مرسيدس‬2015 ‫العالم‬ ‫ من حلبة السباق‬1 ‫لتح ّلق بنجاحات الفورموال‬ ‫ الرئيس‬،‫ ويقول توبياس مورس‬.‫إلى الطرقات‬ ‫ "مع إصدار بطل‬:AMG-‫التنفيذي لمرسيدس‬ ‫ نود أن نتشارك مع عمالئنا ما نشعر به‬،‫العالم‬ ‫من فخر واعتزاز باألداء القوي والممتع لفريق‬ ‫ إنها‬.1 ‫ بتروناس للفورموال‬AMG ‫مرسيدس‬ ‫طريقة لكل المشجعين لكي يشاركونا فرحة‬ ‫النجاح الذي حصده لويس هاميلتون ونيكو‬ ."‫روزبيرغ‬ ‫الملفتة لإلصدار الحصري‬ ُ ‫وتبرز السمة الخارجية‬ ‫ في اإلطاللة المميزة باللون‬A 45 ‫من سيارة‬ ،‫األخضر النفطي واألجزاء اإلضافية باللون األسود‬ ‫والتي تضفي لمسات أنيقة على تصميم الطراز‬ ،‫ وبعدها‬.F1 W06 HYBRID ‫الفائق والهجين‬ ‫ ففي‬.‫هناك باقة التصميم االنسيابي المبتكرة‬ ‫ تضم الباقة خط فاصل كبير‬،‫الجزء األمامي‬ ‫ وهناك جناح على السقف في‬،‫وانحناءات خاصة‬ ‫طرف الجزء الخلفي مستوحى من بطل رياضات‬ ‫ وتشمل ألوان الطالء المتوفرة لهذا‬.‫السيارات‬ ‫ والرمادي‬،‫ الرمادي الجبلي المعدني‬:‫اإلصدار‬ ‫ والفضي القطبي‬،‫الجبلي ديزاينو مانجو‬ .‫المعدني‬ ‫ تأتي العجالت‬،‫وتناغمًا مع هذه التراكيب‬ ‫ إنش مطلية بالتيتانيوم‬19 ‫المعدنية بقياس‬ ‫ وخط من األخضر النفطي على حواف‬،‫الرمادي‬ ً ‫ وتتضمن المعدات اإلضافية ك‬.‫حلقة اإلطار‬ ‫ال‬ ‫ والباقة‬،‫ لألداء‬AMG ‫ ومقاعد‬،‫من الباقة الليلية‬ ً ‫ فض‬،"‫ إكسيكلوزيف‬AMG" ‫الحصرية‬ ‫ال عن باقة‬ .‫ الفائقة‬AMG DYNAMIC PLUS

Ontime Announces Winners Of Swiss Watch Group Raffle Draw Promotion

ONTIME announced names of the nine lucky winners of the Swiss Watch Group raffle draw which took place on Sunday, 20th December 2015, at the Promenade Mall in Hawally.

The Swiss Watch Group promotion ran from 1st November to 15th December’ 15. Customers who purchased watches and/ or accessories worth KD 65 and above, from Police, Gant or Timberland, automatically entered the raffle draw and got a chance at winning one Ducati motor bike, three Samsung Edge Plus 64GB smartphones or five Mini iPads 16GB. All ONTIME stores offer a watch for every occasion, with latest designs from more than 40 international fashion brands such as Fossil, Emporio Armani, Hugo Boss, Diesel, Michael Kors, Juicy Couture, Dici, Ferre Milano and Just Cavalli.

FROM THE PRESS

Burgan Bank Invited its Premier customers to attend the first screening of “Star Wars – The Force Awakens”

‫ تحتفل بلقب بطولة‬AMG-‫مرسيدس‬ ‫ مع إصدار خاص‬1 ‫العالم للفورموال‬ A 45 4MATIC ‫من سيارة‬

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ARIES

(March 21 - April 19)

Get more serious about yourself on January 3 when your planet Mars enters Scorpio. Pour your heart into your work or public involvement with the New Moon on January 9. Get your strategy nailed down and keep at it, bit by bit, day by day. You have many allies and supporters. The Full Moon on January 23 may encourage you to go out in search of some new fun and games, perhaps with a bigger crowd. You want to be noticed, and there are people out there looking for someone like you. Don't let someone else's idea of excitement lead you astray, though.

TAURUS

(April 20 - May 20)

The January 9 New Moon is telling you to live life a little bigger and bolder this year. Is more education or travel calling to you? Older friends support you. An energetic partner, perhaps a romantic one, supports you, too. January 18 may feel like your day with the Moon in Taurus, but few things may go as planned with the Venus/Jupiter square. Home life brightens up with the Full Moon on January 23.

Your partner or current best friend might want you to go out and romp, but you may prefer to stay close to home and be glamorous there. What you say goes.

GEMINI

(May 21 - June 20)

Enjoy a rock-solid New Year and New Moon on January 9. You may be surprised by how much patience you have and how quickly you can analyze problems and zone in on the fix. Don't burn out trying to do it all, though. January 20 sparkles with wit, amusement, and maybe mischief as the Moon in Gemini takes advantage of the Sun moving into intellectual Aquarius. Friends and neighbors keep you busy around the Full Moon on January 23. They may have some amazing and crazy notions of fun, and you might be in the mood, so take care.

CANCER

(June 21 - July 22)

With Mercury retrograde and the Sun conjoining Pluto, January 5 could get emotional, with a lot of people on edge. Keep some distance and don't be in a hurry to do or decide anything. Love makes your world go 'round at the January 9 New Moon. You may be nervous or doubtful at times, but never doubt that you're loved and that you deserve it. Money looks good for you around the January 23 Full Moon. Part of the reason may be that your family wants to be extra good to you. And extra generosity now has been earned in advance. Be gracious.

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JANUARY, 2016

LEO

(July 23 - August 22)

Feel your most intense and pursue a special deep and personal passion when the Sun conjoins Pluto on January 5. Have a healthy, happy, strong new year and New Moon on January 9. If you have any health concerns, just be practical and do what you need to do. Acknowledge any fleeting fears inspired by the news of a friend's problem as simply that, but be smart and realistic, too. Look and feel like a million dollars at the January 23 Full Moon. You're worth way more, of course, and people will look at you and see it. Prepare for serious admiration.

VIRGO

(August 23 - September 22)

Constructive, creative ideas are pouring out of everyone who talks with you under the January 9 New Moon. You can have a lot of fun, too. Be enthusiastic and let your inner child romp a little more. The January 23 Full Moon could inspire some grand intentions and noble plans. Pick your favorite and most heartfelt, and surprise yourself with how possible it really might be. It's a good time to dream big. You don't have to tell anyone. Love could get exciting when Mercury conjoins Pluto on January 29. A partner may try to surprise you, but you'll see it coming.

LIBRA

(September 23 - October 22)

This month's New Moon on January 9 shines into your family and home environment. It's a new year and you can make whatever changes you want that will bring your home closer to perfection. You have the resources, energy, and support. Think about it. Dress up and take your place as the center of attraction for the January 23 Full Moon. Actually, no matter your appearance, your sense of fun and happiness will make you the most attractive one in the room. The Moon is in Libra on January 29 when Mercury conjoins Pluto. Co-workers may have trouble being clear, so be patient.

SCORPIO

(October 23 - November 21)

January 5 could get tense as the Sun conjoins Pluto and Mercury goes stationary retrograde. Stick to basics, especially at work, and you'll be fine. Friends and neighbors may matter a lot to you around the New Moon on January 9. Be sociable and perhaps discover a new friend who has had your back for a while.

Don't run yourself ragged trying to be everyone's best friend, though. You have the golden touch in the workplace with the January 23 Full Moon. Be careful to not take on anything obviously too big for you. Otherwise, be your usual competent self - and the star.

SAGITTARIUS

(November 22 - December 21)

Money is solid for you around the January 9 New Moon, but don't overextend yourself. Let friends be generous and shower you with treats. It will make them feel good and nobody's budget should be strained. Daily life feels claustrophobic at the January 23 Full Moon. You know that the world is bigger than this and you want to do more, see more, and hear more. Soak up as much life as you can and maybe make some new friends, too. January 27 is your lucky day, especially at work. Keep expectations low and be pleasantly rewarded for a good deed done earlier.

CAPRICORN

(December 22 - January 19)

January 6 is a sweet day with the Moon conjoining Venus and then Saturn. A lot of beauty may be concealed in humble places. The January 9 New Moon gives you a powerful, productive start to the year. Be calm, be sure of your own abilities, and don't let anyone or anything discourage you. Extra good luck in your career is breaking your way. If it's time to start something new or assume more responsibility, go for it. Everything is easy for you around the January 23 Full Moon. If you've been baffled or discouraged about something, those feelings and attitudes will melt away.

AQUARIUS

(January 20 - February 18)

January 6 is a sweet day with the Moon conjoining Venus and then Saturn. A lot of beauty may be concealed in humble places. The January 9 New Moon gives you a powerful, productive start to the year. Be calm, be sure of your own abilities, and don't let anyone or anything discourage you. Extra good luck in your career is breaking your way. If it's time to start something new or assume more responsibility, go for it. Everything is easy for you around the January 23 Full Moon. If you've been baffled or discouraged about something, those feelings and attitudes will melt away.

PISCES

(February 19 - March 20)

The January 9 New Moon lights up your social life and your commitment to any clubs or organizations to which you belong. A cause or group may appeal to your sense of public service and you could be inspired to volunteer or join. Regardless, your interest will inspire others. Follow your hunches when the Moon conjoins Neptune on January 13. Use your intuition and have a great day at work. Shine with health and happiness at the Full Moon on January 23. You might even find yourself caring for a new pet, if not a new noble cause. Enjoy that inner golden glow.

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HOMEWORK FOR GROWN UPS EVERYTHING YOU LEARNED AT SCHOOL... BUT CAN YOU REMEMBER? General Knowledge Quiz 1. What asset in London UK was valued at £6billion in 2015: Buckingham Palace; Wimbledon Tennis Club; Underground Railway; or Trees?

2. Alalia, Anarthria, Aphasia, Aphonia, and Dysarthria are forms of impaired human: Hearing; Speech; Sight; or Taste?

Test Your Vocabulary One is the all-metal interior, containing the inmates; it’s painted gray and looks as though it could have been welded in a shipyard.

In this sentence, inmates means: 1. miners 2. allies 3. servants 4. prisoners

3. Thermae and Balneae are Ancient Roman large and small facilities for: Gladiatorial training; Bathing; Horse stabling/breeding; or Cooking and eating?

4. What famous French endurance motor racing track/city is named after the early inhabiting Cenomani Celtic people?

8. What word for sadness referred historically to human black bile in the ancient medical theory of the Four Humours or Four Temperaments?

9. The 'twi' in the word twilight meant originally: Cat; Badger; Two; or Kiss?

10. What is five-eighths divided by five-twelfths: 0.0325; 3/4; 12; or One-and-a-half?

ANSWER: 4. In this question, inmate is a noun that means a person serving a sentence in a jail or prison.

7. A term for a dark shape against a brighter background is named after 18th century French author/politician Etienne de (Who?) ?

An inmate is a person who lives in a specific place, especially someone who's confined there, like a prisoner. You can call yourself an Inmate if you get sent to your room, but usually inmates are behind bars in "the big house."

6. The primary ingredients of butterscotch confectionery are which two of: Cream; Salt; Brown sugar; Coffee; Butter; or Cocoa?

You can talk about a hospital inmate or the inmates at a local boarding school, but it's most common to use inmate and prisoner interchangeably. Originally, in the 16th century, an inmate was "one allowed to live in a house rented by another" — a roommate who's not on the lease, in other words. This meaning comes from in and mate, "friend or companion." By the 1830s, inmate had come to mean "one confined to an institution."

5. Horace Walpole created a popular term for unexpected lucky events/discovery in his 1754 fairy story 'The Three Princes of (Where?)': Bonanza; Bonus; Serendip; or Luckydip?

MATH EQUATION Use the numbers from 1 to 16 in such a way that the sum of the numbers in each of the 7 row is 29.

11. Amethyst is a variety of: Chalk; Quartz; Sapphire; or Glass?

12. A little appreciated, very common human characteristic is the spilt or separated (technically 'accessory'): Kidney; Earlobe; Kneecap; or Fifth toenail?

13. Bammy (Jamaica), Bannock (Scotland), Blaa (Ireland), Bublik (Poland), and Boule (France) are types of: Cheese; Bread; Bacon; or Rum?

4

10 12 2

11 14

13

M I O C C H E N t t G E P D E L P U T E Y D Y O N W A H ANSWERS: COMIC, TENTH, PLEDGE, DEPUTY, ANYHOW

ANSWERS: 1.Trees (there are 8 million trees in London), 2.Speech (forms of mutism), 3.Bathing, 4.Le Mans, 5.Serendip (hence Serendipity - the three princely heroes made happy discoveries by accident), 6.Brown sugar and Butter, 7.Silhouette (nobody knows why exactly), 8.Melancholy (or Melancholia - see the fascinating Four Temperaments in personality theories), 9.Two (likely because twilight occurs twice each day), 10.One-and-a-half (or 1.5 or equivalent - to divide a fraction by another fraction, invert the second fraction and multiply tops and bottoms, ie, 5/8 divided by 5/12 = 5/8 x 12/5 = 60/40 = 3/2 = one-and-a-half), 11.Quartz, 12.Fifth toenail, 13.Bread, 14.Awe (as in awsome, awestruck and awful), 15.China, 16.Word/expression, 17.Cyanide (from Greek kyanos, hence also the name of the colour cyan), 18.Coping, 19.Pancreas, 20.Sauce (an allusion to the spiciness of Latin/Caribbean cuisine)

JANUARY, 2016

3

1

146

5

20. The Cuban/Puerto Rican music/dance 'Salsa' means what in Spanish: Feet; Step; Sauce; or Hot?

15

19. Research (Newcastle University 2015) suggests that Type-2 diabetes is reversible by a very small reduction of fat in the human: Pancreas; Heart; Liver; or Brain?

JUMBLED WORDS

ANSWER:

7

18. What word features in stonemasonry, cabinet-making and carpentry; and strategies to combat stress?

8

17. What often poisonous compound, CN, found in fruit seeds and stones, named from Greek for dark blue, comprises Carbon and Nitrogen: Hemlock; Strychnine; Cyanide; or Mustard gas?

6

16. A neologism is a new: Political doctrine; Word/expression; Plant mutation; or Galaxy?

9

15. The Han ethnic people constitute c.90% of mainland: Australia; China; India; or USA?

16

14. What word for fearful wonderment oddly loses its 'e' when prefixing 'ful' but keeps it when prefixing 'some' and 'struck'?

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

‫ﺗﻄﺒﻖ اﻟﺸﺮوط اﻻﺋﺘﻤﺎﻧﻴﺔ وا ﺣﻜﺎم‬

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‫ت ‪ -‬ﻫـ‪2015/3407/‬‬

‫ﻫﺪﻳﺘﻚ ول راﺗﺐ‬ ‫وأﻛﺜﺮ ﻣﻦ اﻟﺘﺠﺎري!‬