May - Jun 2015 by Curiosity Middle East

CURIOSITY

M I DDL E E A S T

Editor-in-Chief Karen A. Elson Creative Director Mohammad Usman Siraj Art Editor Melanie King Photographer Firoze Edassery

LETTER

e d i t o r’s

For 21 years, Arabian Travel Market has been the most popular annual travel and tourism event and the region’s foremost business platform. ATM 2015 promises to be bigger and better than ever before and Curiosity Middle East is proud to be part of it. As a premium travel and tourism publication we are dedicated to share the latest news from the industry as well as promote all our key associates at this global gathering of tourism professionals. Increasing investor appetite in the Middle East underpinned by strong trading performance and tourism growth has triggered unprecedented development in the hospitality sector. HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings is the most credible and leading chain of Halalfriendly hotels operating across the MENA region. We have on our cover this month the group’s CEO Laurent A. Voivenel who has put the company on a new course of success. We find out what does it take to be a good CEO? As part the Curiosity Middle East special supplements series, we are proud to present in this edition an exclusive 40-page report on Malta. The “must-visit” destination has got one of the most fascinating mix of attractions for holiday-makers as well as business travellers. And our objective with this edition is to put the spotlight on all those beautiful treasures. As always, there is plenty more to read, from news makers to movers and shakers, as well as insights from pros such as technology experts ODS2.

Travel Bug

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Head of Technology Solutions Muhammed Ameen Ameerzada Production Manager Stanley Kularatne Business Development Director Amit Kakkar Contributing Editors Rose Henry Riham Ahmed Mohamed Al Sharief Nadia Sharif Pilar Vilada David Costello Maria Cornejo Nichola Gilbert Taslima Khan Daisy Mason Alex Lawson National Media Council No: 173 Distributed By: Dar Al Hikma LLC

Reach Us On For Editorial: 00971 4 438 7007 editorial@curiosityme.com For advertising: 00971 56 347 6535 amit.kakkar@curiosityme.com Copyright© Curiosity Middle East. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All information and travel details are correct to the best of our knowledge. However this may not be so on the date of publication. Curiosity cannot be held responsible for any information or photographs published here.

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54 08 Making News

The newsmakers in the industry

Must Haves

Going Places

100

First Bite

108

In Conversation

Cover Story

With industry pros

Don’t leave home without these cool accessories Taiwan is the most endearing destinations that is largely undiscovered by global travellers

Dine Out

The search for authentic Arabic flavours ends here

Discover the latest additions to the culinary scene

What’s On

Pick of the season's best for culture vultures

Hesham Malik: Master of ‘Controlled Splashing' & ‘Falling Flakes Style’

122

Pet Power

128

Unwind & Indulge

130

Health Check

136

Bits & Bytes

Editor’s Pick

120

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Escape to CHI, a sanctuary of tranquility inspired by the legend of ‘Shangri-La’

ODS2: Global Technology Leaders Delivering Smart HospITality Solutions

This & That

Art & Soul

Designer Akif Mahmood talks about the two sides of Fashion: Business & Art

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Hand-made knick knacks from north Indian state of Rajasthan that we found hard to resist Most Japanese women prefer pets to marriage & parenthood

HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings is on a Roll and turning around its fortunes is CEO Laurent A. Voivenel

Tech Talk

On the Shelf

Books for those with an appetite for history

Understanding & Managing Melasma Industry innovations

72 142 140

Movers & Shakers

142

Check-In Check-Out

148

In Focus

124

Getting out of the comfort zone to take up new challenges

Landmarks to stop by

Events that have been keeping our cameramen busy

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Taste Of Dubai

aste of Dubai welcomed 25,015 diners who indulged in a host of culinary delights and world-class entertainment recently.

Visitors to the eighth showing of the popular event were attracted by delectable dishes from twenty of Dubai’s finest eateries and a whole host of fun and entertainment across a sunkissed weekend. Alongside the city’s best foodie offerings, top-name celebrity chefs from around the globe were also in attendance to wow guests with their expert culinary techniques in the cookery school and chef ’s theatre. The all-star line-up included Jean-Christophe Novelli, AtulKochhar, Andy Bates, Tim Anderson, Dhruv Baker, Jose Pizarro, Luke Thomas, and Emirati baking sensation Bader Al Awadhi.

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Keeping the festival rocking across the weekend was the leading Bon Jovi tribute band Bon Jovie, who headlined the main stage on the event’s premiere night, which was also the event’s inaugural ‘Ladies Night’. Alternative soul musician Adam Baluch and local band The Boxtones also entertained the thousands of attendees who flocked to the world’s favourite al fresco food, drink and music festival. A real highlight of the foodie festival was a surprise appearance from legendary reggae band UB40, who performed a one-off acoustic set and delighted guests in the British Airways VIP lounge. The showpiece event ran at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre and once again proved a huge success, delighting foodie fanatics and families alike.

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Abu Dhabi Festival 2015 Visual Arts Exhibition

blend of Brazilian samba and jazz-infused pop hits, the versatile and charismatic Sergio Mendes took to the stage with his 10-piece band, performing some of his greatest hits - Mas Que Nada, The Fool on the Hill, The Look of Love, Magalenha, The Waters of March, and The Girl from Ipanema. Delighting his Abu Dhabi audience with his unique and eclectic mix of sounds, the three-time Grammy Award winner demonstrated why he has been loved worldwide for over four decades. Through the years, he has also collaborated with leading artists from across the world including the Black Eyed Peas and Justin Timberlake. The Exhibition presented a trio of diverse and

Al Khamis - Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and the Abu Dhabi Festival, said: “Once again, Abu Dhabi Festival’s main programme has started in true celebratory style. We have a long tradition of brining world renowned artists to the UAE, and we are truly honoured to have welcomed Sergio Mendes to the 2015 Abu Dhabi Festival for his Arabian Gulf Premiere. “We are also overjoyed to have inaugurated this year’s Visual Arts Exhibition, and we thank Karin Adrian von Roques, Lead Curator of View From Inside, Wendy Watriss Co-Founder of FotoFest and Co-Curator of View From Inside, for this truly stunning and inspiring exhibition which delicately displays the diverse and shifting identities of people and places in Arab life today. The presentation of this exhibition affirms Abu Dhabi Festival’s role as a leading cultural event in the region.” HE Sheikh Nahayan was joined by H.E. Hoda I. Al Khamis - Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and the Abu Dhabi Festival, HE Giorgio Starace, Ambassador of Italy to the United Arab Emirates, Karin Adrian von Roques, Lead Curator of View From Inside, Wendy Watriss Co-Founder of FotoFest and Co-Curator of View From Inside, Frederick Baldwin, Co-Founder of FotoFest, Steven Evans, Executive Director of FotoFest, along with international Festival guests, ADMAF Advisors.

His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth & Community Development and ADMAF Patron, officially inaugurated the Abu Dhabi Festival 2015 Visual Arts Exhibition at Emirates Palace Gallery, before joining an upbeat crowd for an evening of bossa nova beats as Brazilian superstar, Sergio Mendes, made his Arabian Gulf Premiere at the Abu Dhabi Festival.

stimulating artworks through three distinct themes, entitled View From Inside: Contemporary Arab Photography, Video and Mixed Media Art; the 2015 Festival Commissions; and Emirati Insights. Showcasing a selection of artworks from local and regional artists, the bespoke group exhibition channels the complexity, beauty and contradictions of life in the Middle East in a raw, yet poetic reflection on culture.

Kicking off Abu Dhabi Festival 2015’s main programme of headline performances with a lively

Following the Visual Arts Exhibition inauguration and Sergio Mendes’ performance, H.E. Hoda I.

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The inauguration also saw the launch of ‘Art of the Emirates’ in association with Waha Capital – ADMAF’s first publication to be available across the Arabian Gulf. The luxury book offers a fascinating insight into the Emirati visual arts sector through the voices of its leading protagonists – the artists, foundations, galleries and educators who have played a major role in its continuing growth. The Abu Dhabi Festival’s 12th edition under this year’s theme ‘Idea: The Seed Of Invention’ is the UAE’s premiere cultural event, bringing the best in international and regional opera, music, and visual arts to the Emirates each year.

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Dubai All Set for ATM 2015

Scott Butcher General Manager - Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai is gearing up for a strong presence at Arabian Travel Market 2015 that will be held from 4th to 7th May at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The 390-room 5-star hotel is the ideal address for both business and leisure travellers, and is superbly located opposite Burjuman Shopping Centre. Scott Butcher, General Manager, Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, said, “Arabian Travel Market is an excellent platform to position and promote our hotel among key local and international travel trade. It provides us with unique opportunities to have face to face interaction and close business deals with top players in the industry. This year will be showcasing our latest facilities and promotions.”

Centrally located in Bur Dubai near shopping malls, commercial districts and the exhibition halls of the Dubai World Trade Centre, Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai is growing in popularity for conferences and other corporate events, and has successfully launched its Kris With A View restaurant as a new scenic option for business gatherings. Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai is a prime event venue offering both a convenient location and a variety of upgraded facilities for group dining, corporate meetings, product launches, cocktail receptions and private parties. Available on site are a choice of nine airy banquet and meeting rooms, many featuring balcony access and/or daylight, and all with free Wi-Fi, projector facilities and podium as well as a dedicated function team available both prior to and during any event. Talking about Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai’s strategy on developing new markets, Scott stated, “We have seen an increase on leisure group business from European, India, China, US, Canada, Germany and this will be strengthen and developed further through close coordination with our various GSA offices in UK, Hong Kong and Germany. Recently we have conducted sales trip to tap corporate accounts in India”. In addition to promoting its various facilities, the hotel will be making some special announcements during ATM.

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Air Arabia Adds Nepal to Ras Al Khaimah Destination List Air Arabia has announced Kathmandu as the latest destination to be served from the recently launched Ras Al Khaimah hub. Starting February 22, 2015; the low-cost carrier will fly twice weekly to Kathmandu, the 10th destination which travellers can now access from the Northern Emirates. Adel A. Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “In just 9 months, we have reached the milestone of ten exciting destinations to which our customers can fly using Ras Al Khaimah Airport. Customers can now enjoy great connectivity to Nepal from both, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah International Airports. We look forward to adding more routes in the future from our second hub in the UAE as the emirate’s travel and tourism sector continue to enjoy significant growth.” Air Arabia will operate its Kathmandu service on Wednesdays and Sundays, departing Ras Al Khaimah at 14.10 and arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport at 19.40. Flights will depart Kathmandu at 20.20 and land in Ras Al Khaimah at 23.35. Air Arabia currently serves Kathmandu with triple daily flights from its main hub at Sharjah International Airport. Air Arabia’s first flight from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, its second hub in the UAE, took off on May 6, 2014, to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. It has since added direct services to Muscat in Oman; Dhaka and Chittagong in Bangladesh; Cairo in Egypt; and Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar in Pakistan and Doha in Qatar.

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Ajman Franchise Exhibition at Kempinski Hotel Ajman

Kempinski Hotel Ajman proudly hosted the Ajman Franchise Expo on 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15 April, which is a global franchise event that attracted visitors from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe and the US. It was focused on attracting leaders in franchising and retail, as well as investors and SMEs from around the world who are looking to explore franchising and business opportunities across all industry sectors. Organised by the Ajman Chamber of Commerce, the Ajman Franchising Expo aims to provide the most investment-friendly and business-focused meeting environment. The visitors can focus on generating sales leads, promoting brands, closing deals and showcasing concepts. With a total population of 297 million and growth rate of 3-5% per year, the Middle East and North Africa region is thriving and enjoys a franchise-friendly climate. The franchise industry in the Middle East and North Africa is worth over $30 billion with an estimated annual growth of 27%. Whether people are looking to expand their franchise across the Middle East or anywhere in the world, or need advice on how to transform their idea into a full-blown franchise concept, the Ajman Franchising Expo is the place to learn it all. Strategically located next to Dubai and Sharjah, Ajman enjoys being located in the middle of the Emirates as a whole. Its investment-friendly climate and state-of-art infrastructure has made it one of the most attractive hubs for investments and capitals in the region. To get to Ajman, you can take a taxi from any airport to Ajman city, or rent a car and drive there through the Emirates Highway. Taxis go to Sharjah and Dubai, and also to Raâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s al Khaymah and Umm al Quwain. The average time to get to Dubai is 20 to 25 minutes.

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Mr Abdulla Bu Khamas, Mr Tulsi Gangaramani, General Manager, Al Jazira Poultry Farm LLC, Mr Kamal Vachani, Director, Al Jazira Poultry Farm LLC and H.E. Dr Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad, Hon. Minister of Environment and Water

Halal Trophy for Al Jazira Poultry Farm

Al Jazira Poultry Farm LLC AJPF have received the Halal Trophy for its products from Emirates Standardization and Metrology Authority (ESMA). The Halal Trophy was awarded by the Minister of Environment and Water H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad to Mr. Abdulla bu Khamas and Mr. Kamal Vachani. Al Jazira Poultry Farm LLC (AJPF) producer of Golden Eggs was established in the year 1999 and is the first egg producer in the Emirate of Dubai. It is the first poultry producer also in the UAE to get Emirates Quality Award from (ESMA).

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Middle East’s Best Airport Hotel 2015 Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain added another prestigious award to its growing list of achievements, winning Best Airport Hotel in the Middle East at the 2015 Skytrax World Airport Awards in Paris. It also ranks as one of the top 10 airport hotels in the world. Established in 1999 when Skytrax launched its first global Airport Customer Satisfaction Survey, the non-profit World Airport Awards invited 13 million global travellers over a span of nine months to elect a winner. It is perceived as a global benchmark in airport and hospitality excellence.

“Being a great airport hotel isn’t just about having a convenient location close to an airport,” says Hotel General Manager Daniel Kaan. “Our team is exceptionally proud of this achievement, which reflects the effort they put into making weary air travellers feel instantly welcomed in a new city through a variety of exemplary initiatives.”

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain was a high performer in all of these categories to win this year’s award for Best Airport Hotel in the Middle East.” The 2015 awards for best airport hotels were based on nominations from around 1.5 million airport hotel guests, evaluating key performance indicators in guest satisfaction. These included leisure, fitness and spa facilities, quality of food, cleanliness, comfort and accessibility to the airport, amongst others.

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax confirmed that “winning this global award underlines the popularity of Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain. The awards recognise hotels that combine convenience, comfort and top quality service as an integrated package for today's travellers, and

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Coral Beach Resort Sharjah Taps Chinese Market

ith an eye on sharp increase in the number of Chinese tourists visiting the UAE, the Coral Beach Resort Sharjah showcased its facilities at the China Outbound Travel & Tourism Market (COTTM), only dedicated business-to-business outbound travel event in China, at the National Agricultural Exhibition Centre, Beijing. Ghulam Sajjad, Head of Sales and Marketing for Coral Beach Resort Sharjah was in Beijing to promote the hotel's facilities and discuss business opportunities with international tourism, travel and hospitality industry stakeholders. Jean Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts, emphasised that Sharjah’s presence at the COTTM, Beijing, is quite special as the emirate has been crowned as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2015. It has enhanced tourists’ interest in Sharjah’s rich historical, cultural, heritage and modern tourism product. He added, “China is rapidly developing, which is reflected in the increasing number of Chinese tourists and their profile. They are seeking brands such as ours. Participating in the COTTM exhibition

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will give us an opportunity to present our facilities to key players of China’s outbound tourism industry and forge new ties.” According to a 2015 forecast report by Business Monitor International (BMI), tourist arrival in the UAE may rise to 16.47mn. Therefore, tourism receipts are forecast to reach US$20.11bn, while the hotel and restaurant industry is expected to grow by 16.65% in USD terms to reach US$10.84bn. Sharjah is expected to attract a major share of it as the emirate’s tourist graph is continuously improving. The trend is supported by the fact that

Jean-Pierre Simon Regional General Manager Northern Emirates Coral Hotels & Resorts Sharjah’s hotels attracted more than two million guests during the year 2014. Jean Pierre said, “Chinese tourists will be playing a significant role in meeting the target. During the past few years, the interest of Chinese and Asian tourists in Sharjah and other parts of the UAE has been consistently growing which reflects in growing visitor numbers. It is important for us to tap this massive market.”

Dubai Tourism Showcases its e-Permit and e-Ticketing Platforms

ubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) used its participation in the Dubai Government Achievements Exhibition (Dubai World Trade Centre, 30 March – 1 April) to showcase its e-Permit and e-Ticketing platforms which were recently introduced to align with the objectives of Dubai Smart City initiative.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and now in its third year the event is themed ‘Local Government and Global Achievements’ and will highlight the leadership qualities of the Government of Dubai in various fields. It also celebrates excellence and innovation within government departments and is an opportunity to showcase the achievements, services and projects of all departments and institutions under one umbrella. DTCM’s e-Permit and e-Ticketing platforms were first introduced in September 2013, with DTCM taking responsibility for the development and management of both. The former is an online system through which all procedures related to the application, processing and licensing of event permits are operated, while the latter is a centralised platform for the sale and distribution of tickets for all events in Dubai. Implementation of both systems are aimed at supporting and developing Dubai’s growing events sector, which is a key pillar of the strategy behind the Emirate’s Tourism Vision for 2020 to welcome 20 million visitors per year by the start of the next decade. The platforms also align with Dubai’s Smart City initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in early March2014.

The benefits of both platforms are multiple, automating and thus speeding up and simplifying the entire events application, licensing and ticketing process, and providing an electronic ticket distribution system that is altogether easier and more convenient for those attending events. Other benefits include the ability to collect big data for the purposes of city planning and crowd management, as well as statistics that allow DTCM to optimise the events calendar and, in broader terms, improve Dubai’s events and destination offering. Ahmad Khalifa AlFalasi, CEO of Support Services, DTCM said: “DTCM is committed to the Smart City strategy announced in March 2014 by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The e-Permit and e-Ticketing platforms are just two examples of our efforts to deliver targeted initiatives across the city to provide streamlined services to our partners and stakeholders, and ultimately enhance the visitor experience. With Dubai’s events sector growing at an impressive rate and playing such a vital role in growing our tourism numbers, the new e-Permit system was introduced to streamline the management and coordination of event licensing activities and provide greater operational efficiency. The e-Ticketing system allows us to issue tickets more quickly and efficiently, and enables us to build a database of information that benefits not only DTCM but also event organisers and venues, leading to greater customer satisfaction. We have already seen positive results since both systems’ implementation,and we look forward toannouncing further developments in the near future.”

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Citadines Culture Village Dubai to Open in 2017

apitaLand’s wholly-owned serviced residence business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), has secured a contract to manage its first Citadines Apart’hotel in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Citadines Culture Village Dubai, which is slated to open in 2017, is Ascott’s third serviced residence in Dubai. This follows the addition of Ascott Culture Village Dubai announced in October 2014. The latest addition will strengthen Ascott’s portfolio in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) and Turkey to more than 2,150 apartment units across 14 properties in six countries Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Turkey. Mr Tony Soh, Ascott’s Chief Corporate Officer and Head of the GCC and Turkey region, said, “The launch of our Citadines brand supports the growing demand from independent travelers who prefer the flexibility to choose the services they want as compared to luxury hotels that offer full services. Citadines Apart’Hotel is one of Ascott’s fastest growing brands, with more than 50 properties in 19 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region.” Mr Soh added, “According to data released from STR Global, the Middle East’s hospitality market is the fastest growing in the world. The UAE and Saudi Arabia account for 70% of rooms in the region’s pipeline and we see great potential in this market for further growth.” The management agreement for Citadines Culture Village Dubai was awarded to Ascott by Sheikh Fahad Abdulrahman Abdulaziz Thunayan, President and Chairman of Saudi Technical Trading and Contracting Co. “We are extremely pleased to enter into this management agreement with Ascott, internationally renowned for its brands, management and service excellence. Our confidence in their premier management experience for Citadines Culture Village Dubai serves our overall strategy to grow into Dubai’s hospitality sector,” said Sheikh Fahad Abdulrahman Abdulaziz Thunayan.

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Lionsgate Partners With Dubai Parks and Resorts for The Hunger Games

Continuing its roll-out of location-based entertainment venues around the world, Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF) is partnering with Dubai Parks and Resorts(DFM: DUBAIPARKS)to bring aLionsgate zone to motiongate™ Dubai, the Hollywood-themed parkopening in Dubai in October 2016. The Lionsgate zone will feature state-of-theart theme park attractions and a retail facility inspired by Lionsgate’s global blockbuster The Hunger Games franchise. It will also incorporate a live stage show based on Step Up: All In and Step Up: Revolution, the two most recent films in the Company’s worldwide Step Up franchise. “Our franchises are continuing to drive locationbased entertainment opportunities around the world,” said Lionsgate Chief Executive Officer Jon Feltheimer. “We’re proud to partner with the team at Dubai Parks and Resorts to create a thrilling total entertainment experience designed

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to attract millions of new fans and continue the global expansion of our brands.”

global benchmark as the ultimate movie themed destination.”

The four million square foot motiongate™ Dubai is anticipated to attract over three million visits a year and will take visitors on an immersive cinematic journey through their favorite films via 27 different latest-in-technology rides and attractions.

“motiongate™ Dubai is poised to become one of the most exciting new entertainment destinations in the world, and we’re thrilled that many of our biggest franchises will be an integral part of it,” said Lionsgate Executive Vice President of Global Franchise Management and Strategic Partnerships Kerry Phelan and Senior Vice President of Branded Attractions Jenefer Brown.

Dubai Parks and Resorts Chief Executive Officer Raed Al Nuaimi said, “We are thrilled to be working with a Hollywood studio whose creative resources, spirit of innovation and vision of the entertainment experience are so closely aligned with our own. Lionsgate’s Hunger Games, Step Up and other signature properties are the perfect centerpiece forone of the most visionary new theme parks in the world. Through this partnership we are offering even more for thewhole family to enjoy on their visit and are confident that motiongate™ Dubai will set a

Alongside motiongate™ Dubai, Dubai Parks andResorts will include LEGOLAND® Dubai, the first LEGOLAND® theme park in the Middle East; and Bollywood Parks™ Dubai, a first-of-itskind entertainment destination that will showcase the authentic Bollywood movie experience. These will be connected by Riverland™ , a retail, dining and entertainment walkway. The development will also feature Lapita, a Polynesian-themed resort catering to families.

Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Signs Joint Venture for Aiana Hotels & Resorts with Amruda Nair, a Third Generation Hotelier H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Qatari Business Association, and Amruda Nair, Joint Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Aiana Hotels & Resorts L.L.C., have signed a Joint Venture agreement to create Aiana Hotels & Resorts, a global hotel management company with the fabIed Indian service ethos at its heart. Both partners share the common vision of creating a brand that will appeal to young professionals and global travellers and provide its guests with unique, and enriching experiences, as well as bringing the first Asian-inspired hotel to Qatar. The new joint venture company Aiana Hotels & Resorts L.L.C. will embody a hospitality brand of upper upscale hotels and leading operator of hotels, resorts and serviced apartments in the Middle East, Indian Sub-Continent and South East Asia. To mark the launch, Aiana Hotels & Resorts unveiled the visual identity of the brand, Aiana, meaning “eternal blossom” in Sanskrit also means a place of refuge or retreat. These two powerful

and evocative images represented as the universal symbol of the “mandala” in the brand logo, come together to represent the unique experience that Aiana promises its guests. The joint venture combines the resources and visionary entrepreneurial skills of H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, ChairmanAl Sawari Holding with the hospitality expertise and passion of Amruda Nair, herself a third generation hotelier, driven by a desire to redefine hospitality today. Aiana Hotels & Resorts reflects the strengths of its principals – business excellence and Indian hospitality to cater for the growing demand for value added offerings in the upper upscale hospitality segment and offers hotel owners an effective management solution from an experienced team of hospitality specialists. The jointventure,with both partners having an equal share,will be based in Doha, Qatar and operate under the name Aiana Hotels & Resorts L.L.C. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Al Faisal Holding, said: “Given

the long standing relationship between Qatar and India, there is great synergy in the similar way that we travel. This is why we want to bring Aianaas a new lifestyle hotel brand to the Middle East and will continue to support Aiana through our ambitious expansion plans for acquisitions in key destinations starting with the property in Doha with many more to follow in Western Europe (London) and The United States of America.” Amruda Nair, Joint Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, AIANA Hotels &Resorts L.L.C. said “With the launch of Aiana Hotels and Resorts, I am delighted to be introducing a brand I am confident will become the preferred choice of travellers seeking authentic and immersive experiences that will stay with them long after they have checked out. I was fortunate to meet H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani who shared my passion for hospitality and supported my dreams and ambitions of creating an Indian brand with a global presence. Our service, design, and operating philosophy is geared to exceed the expectations of a new generation of savvy travellers. We call it Hospitality 2.0” May - June 2015 Curiosity 21

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Dubai Parks and Resorts partners with Merlin Entertainments plc to build LEGOLAND® Water Park Already making waves across the globe with the recent announcements of its upcoming attractions, Dubai Parks and Resorts (DPR), in conjunction with UK based Merlin Entertainments plc (‘Merlin’), the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator and a FTSE 100 company, has unveiled the latest addition to its lineup. Sure to make a splash when it opens next year, LEGOLAND Water Park will be an exciting new addition to the wider LEGOLAND Dubai theme park, which is already in development. Aimed at children ages two to twelve, the new LEGOLAND Water Park will feature some of LEGOLAND’s most popular water attractions including a half-million gallon wave pool; the very popular Build-A-Raft River where guests can design and build their own customised raft; along with the interactive Imagination Station, which lets children construct bridges, dams and cities and test their designs against the flow of water. Commenting on the plans for the LEGOLAND Water Park, Raed Al Nuaimi, CEO of Dubai Parks and Resorts said, “We are committed to offering unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages at Dubai Parks and Resorts. We are therefore very pleased to partner with Merlin Entertainments to bring this unique water park concept to the UAE as an exciting new element to the LEGOLAND Dubai theme park. We look forward to welcoming families to this immersive and 22 Curiosity May - June 2015

interactive attraction, where children can create, build, and learn while having fun. With the addition of the LEGOLAND Water Park to our existing offering, we will now have a destination that boasts six components and over 100 rides and attractions.” LEGOLAND Dubai, the first LEGOLAND Park in the Middle East, will cover a total of three million square feet made from more than 60 million LEGO bricks. This includes over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions set in six themed lands – LEGO City, Adventure, LEGO Kingdom, LEGO Create, LEGO Factory, and Miniland which is always unique to every individual location and showcases some of the most iconic buildings and landmarks from Dubai and the Middle East – replicated to scale in LEGO bricks. Commenting Nick Varney, CEO of Merlin Entertainments, said: “We already have a strong working partnership with Dubai Parks and Resorts and this LEGOLAND Water Park is an exciting and natural extension to our existing Park development here in Dubai. In line with LEGOLAND Dubai, the LEGOLAND Water Park is aimed primarily at families with young children, offering a unique place for them to play and have fun together. The addition of the LEGOLAND Water Park will not only allow families to enjoy the LEGOLAND Dubai experience over a number of days but also help create many more truly memorable experiences of their visit. ”

Ajman Tourism and Umm Al Quwain Economic Department Sign Cooperation Agreement

jman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) and Umm Al Quwain Economic Development Department have signed a cooperation agreement on enhancing efforts and utilizing available potentials to develop tourism industries in both emirates. The agreement was signed by ATDD Chairman Sheikh Abdulaziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and Umm Al Quwain Economic Development Department Chairman Sheikh Saif Bin Rashid Al Mualla, with ATDD General Manager Faisal Al Nuaimi and Director-General of Umm Al Quwain Economic Department Mansour Sultan Al Kharji. The agreement targets technical cooperation regarding issuing and renewing licenses for tourism establishments, conducting tourismrelated surveys, holding mutual symposia and building the proper communication channels needed to render such surveys a success. Exchanging tourism information and offering mutual support with regard to attracting tourism investments are also among the list of targets. By virtue of this agreement, concerned employees

at Umm Al Quwain Economic Development Department will be trained by ATDD staffers on classification systems and standards approved for tourism installations in Ajman. ATDD is always keen on exchanging experience and applying best practices with regard to sustainable tourism investment, ATDD Chairman said, adding that both parties agreed to use all available human, technical and knowledge resources to increase tourism investments in Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. Rendering this official agreement effective would serve comprehensive and sustainable development efforts in the UAE, he said. For his part, Umm Al Quwain Economic Development Department chairman welcomed the agreement, noting that his department is the local government entity responsible for tourism licensing issues in the emirate. Sheikh Saif Bin Rashid said he was keen to contact ATDD within the framework of efforts to unify tourism procedures in both emirates; a move that is welcomed and supported by UAE federal government authorities. May - June 2015 Curiosity 23

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Corp Amman Hotel Launches Special Wedding Packages

elebrate your wedding with family and friends at the Corp Amman Hotel that has created superb packages to turn your dreams into a reality. With a capacity to host 400 people, Acacia Ballroom provides a beautiful setting for wedding receptions. Erik Huyer, General Manager of Corp Amman Hotel, said, "We have got outstanding banquet facilities with three multi-functional meeting rooms and a ballroom fully equipped with the latest technology. Weddings don't have to cost a fortune. This season we have created special wedding packages that are designed to give you greater value. You just need to choose the one that suits your budget". Corp Amman Hotel has carved a niche for itself for hosting elegant weddings taking care of the smallest details. Erik stressed, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our specially conceived packages are meant to ease your worries. Pre-wedding consultation with our experts will help you explore all the possibilities and identify the one that meets your requirements". The first package, designed for 200 guests, offers value Snack Menu including two rounds of soft 24 Curiosity May - June 2015

Erik Huyer General Manager - Corp Amman Hotel drink and Wedding Planner, besides one night complementary stay in the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Junior Suite including breakfast for price of JOD3,500. The second package, also for 200 guests, includes special Buffet Menu including two rounds of soft drink and Wedding Planner. This package also includes one night complementary stay in a Junior Suite including breakfast on a price of JOD4,500. The Wedding Planner includes DJ, DJ Lights, two video cameras and one mixer, Photographer (100 print pictures), one bouquet for the bride, one guest book, Zafeh inside the hotel, parquet dance floor, flower arrangement for the bride's car, Kosheh and 20 Centre pieces.

Holiday Inn Dubai – Al Barsha CEO Wins Coveted Leadership Awards Holiday Inn Dubai – Al Barsha is proud to announce that Roxana Jaffer, the CEO of Holiday Inn Dubai in Al Barsha and Director of Sovereign Hotels (BV I) Ltd, has been honoured with two of the most coveted leadership awards in the UAE and India recently. Roxana Jaffer was conferred with the “Global Inspirational Leadership Awards 2015 for Outstanding Leadership” at the “Women Leadership Achievement Awards 2015″ hosted by the World Women’s Leadership Congress (WWLC) at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, on February 14, 2015. On February 25, 2015, HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan honoured Ms. Jaffer with the “Best Woman in Hospitality UAE” at the “Women Leaders in UAE Award.” She was chosen by an international panel of eminent jury on the parameters of Leadership, Ethics, Interpersonal Skills, Charisma, Visionary, A Change-Agent and Business Acumen. Receiving the Women Leadership Achievement Awards 2015, Ms. Jaffer said, “It is a very overwhelming experience to be receiving this great accolade. I am deeply honoured and most grateful to the World Women’s Leadership Congress for considering me worthy for this very special recognition.” She gave credit to her team for the achievement and said that she was not

driven at any time to seek recognition or accolades for being a guide and rolemodel to her followers. “It is humbling to know that as a leader, standing in for what’s right and displaying courage to uphold my convictions, that I should be nominated. I thank my team who took time to complete the rigorous document,” she said. Under her leadership, the Holiday Inn Dubai – Al Barsha has become a recognised partner of the United Nations World Food Programme. In furthering their global mandate, Jaffer has played an incredible role in raising funds to feed over 200,000 hungry children in the world. She has also founded the NGO “Advent for Building Human Capital (abc)” which has been doing phenomenal work in Pakistan, India and the UAE, helping discerning individuals to rise to a higher level. Jaffer has also touched hearts through the hotel’s “Loves You Campaign.” Since its inception, the hotel staff have successfully held various awareness and fund-raising drives in their own small way, not only to build a civil society in the UAE but also to help the needy in other parts of the world. Some of the most incredible works include the Valentine’s “Tea Party” for Children with special needs, making major contribution in the 2010 Pakistan Flood rehabilitation programme, and hosting Iftar for underprivileged and orphan children.

Roxana Jaffer CEO of Holiday Inn Dubai - Al Barsha and Director of Sovereign Hotels (BV I) Ltd

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International Textile Fair in UAE Textile in the UAE has had one of the most significant impacts on the country’s economic prosperity. Yet, it is one of the least marketed industries in both the UAE and the region at large. Today, the country stands as the world’s fourth largest trading center for fashion and apparel, raking in an estimated $17.5 billion annually. This makes it the second largest trading sector behind oil and also one of UAE’s largest employers in the industrial sector. Dubai is a particularly attractive destination for local and international textile companies because of its strategic positioning, advanced infrastructure, free and fair business environment, favorable shipping costs and locally growing population. The second season of INTERNATIONAL TEXTILE FAIR (ITF) took place at the World Trade Center on the 26th to 27th April 2015 and aimed to provide added competitive advantages to the regional traders through exposure to a global network. The exhibition brought together over 200 international textile manufacturers in the region, along with a panel of industry experts to provide technical expertise and industry trend talks to visitors at the fair. Since its conception, INTERNATIONAL TEXTILE FAIR has garnered tremendous support from Dubai Customs, which expressed its appreciation towards the organizers of the fair. Mr. Khalfan Alkeabi, Senior Manager Client Relations at Dubai Customs said; “We are delighted to be part of the INTERNATIONAL TEXTILE FAIR, which 26 Curiosity May - June 2015

is a dynamic platform that will further consolidate Dubai’s position as a regional hub for major international trade between the East and West.” He added that, “The exhibition provides real opportunities for industry participants in the textile an increased return on their investments in the Middle East and UAE in particular, due to the availability of infrastructure and legislation that is conducive to investment.” Mr. Alkeabi recognized that the fair brought new trading partners and a variety of new products to Dubai’s textile traders and designers and opened the market up for better business development overall and is eager to see the success of the future seasons.

adept at meeting the requirements of both local and international designers.” As M.D. of Bhagat Group of Companies, Mr. Singh has a niche in high-end embroideries that he supplies to both regional and international luxury wear designers.

Texmas, the Textile Merchants Group that represents 800 Dubai wholesale textile traders has also expressed its gratitude at Dubai Customs presence at ITF and has strongly endorsed the fair as a platform that allows both foreign and the local traders to explore opportunities within the lucrative regional market. Ex-chairman of Texmas, Mr. Tejinder Singh articulated his pleasure at the advent of a serious trade event such as INTERNATIONAL TEXTILE FAIR in this sector. He says, “ITF is a much needed event that showcases the strength of the local textile industry, which has been the mainstay of the city’s financial development.”

The UAE is currently the world’s third largest exporter of textiles, with the country over $1.623 billion worth of textiles in 2014, representing a 7.75 per cent share of the global export market. UAE now witnesses an annual cumulative growth rate of 4% and by 2016, it is set to become the world’s leading high-end textile and garment re-export centre. With global textile trade also on the rise, there is a need for the region to stay competitive and benefit from the overall industry growth. The international exhibitors at the fair consist of leading textile manufacturers, accessories and trim suppliers, print studios, apparel producers and traders and also embroidery machine makers. Through platforms such as INTERNATIONAL TEXTILE FAIR, wholesalers in the region can keep ahead of the global competition by accessing a full range of production options and negotiating directly with manufacturers for better prices and MOQs. They are also able to communicate with the manufacturers and give them regional insight on the specific textile needs of the lucrative Middle East market.

He also added that; “Dubai has a competitive advantage over other textile markets, as its traders are able to observe the changing fashions and are

Experts estimate that textile and apparel trade is expected to reach $805 billion by 2015, nearly $2 billion more than in 2010.

SKAI Signs Second Management Agreement with Viceroy for Suites in the SKAI • •

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SKAI to upgrade AED1.28bn tower to luxury five star property Construction progressing on newly named Viceroy Dubai Jumeirah Village, operations to commence in 2018 Unique star wing design trademarked in 8 categories Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah over 50 percent complete

SKAI, the Dubai-based real estate investment group, will upgrade its upper upscale property in Dubai’s Jumeirah Village Circle to a five-star luxury property and rebrand it Viceroy Dubai Jumeirah Village following the signing of Viceroy Hotel Group as its hotel operator. SKAI, which launched the upper upscale four-star Suites in the SKAI in May last year, will upgrade the AED1.28bn ($348.4m) tower, putting it on track to become the first five-star property in a five-kilometre radius. The signing of Viceroy Hotel Group marks the operator’s second venture with SKAI alongside sister property, Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah. The upgrade to a five star hotel comes at no additional cost to buyers and will add significant value to stakeholders. Construction on the 60-storey tower is already underway with the hotel scheduled for operation in 2018. Its distinctive star wing design was also recently trademarked in 8 categories. Conceptualised in-house by architect Nabil Akiki, CEO of Real Estate Development, the unique design allows for each room and apartment to incorporate a vast landscaped garden. Bill Walshe, CEO of Viceroy Hotel Group said: "It is a great privilege to be collaborating with SKAI Holdings for a second project following our partnership for Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah. Dubai's dynamic tourism market is continuing to thrive and this opening reaffirms our commitment to significantly growing our presence within the region. We look forward to working closely with SKAI Holdings to bring another exceptional and inspiring hotel to the city." “We are delighted to partner with Viceroy Hotel Group on our second project. The operator’s philosophy of creating

lifestyle experiences with intuitive services complements SKAI’s values. The compelling architecture deserves an inspiring brand to bring our vision to life and Viceroy was the obvious choice,” said Kabir Mulchandani, Group CEO of SKAI. SKAI’s Viceroy Dubai Jumeirah Village will feature 247-hotel rooms and suites as well as 221 one-and-two bedroom apartments and 33 four-bedroom apartments with private pools. The tower is strategically located in close proximity to three of Dubai’s arterial roads (Al Khail Road, Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road (formerly Emirates Road) and Hessa Street) and a short drive from Dubai’s new Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo 2020 site. Viceroy Dubai Jumeirah Village will feature breathable architecture allowing sunlight to shine through the core of the tower and a vertical microclimate design with over half a million sq. ft. of flora, naturally helping maintain the temperature. Lush green balcony-gardens and 271 sky-high swimming pools add to the sense of nature while floating bathtubs, floor to ceiling windows and panoramic views across the city provide the ideal cosmopolitan backdrop. The property will include five dining venues hosted by world-class chefs, including an all-day dining concept, a lobby café, pool bar, sports bar and a rooftop Chinese restaurant. Other amenities include state-of-the-art gymnasium, fitness centre with outdoor yoga terrace and lavish swimming pool, sauna and steam room and boutique spa. Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah, SKAI’s flagship property, has completed over 50 percent of construction on the 17-storey building. Superstructure works are now at an advanced stage with concrete and block work substantially completed and MEP works in the second fix. Interior cladding and finishing works are progressing on schedule and landscaping works have commenced. The luxury hospitality and residential project, which is set to open in 2016, will offer guests 477 spacious rooms and suites and 222 signature Viceroy Residences with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and Dubai’s dramatic skylines. May - June 2015 Curiosity 27

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Yamaha Café Races its Way in Dubai Al Yousuf Group, a leading business conglomerate in the UAE, is the exclusive distributor of Yamaha in the UAE, and has ventured into the restaurant and café business with its first ticket, the Yamaha Café. Besides Yamaha, the café also showcases other popular biking accessory brands like Alpine Stars, Nolan and Jobe, which can be purchased. The Yamaha Café was inaugurated recently by Jorge Lorenzo Guerrero, the Spanish motorcycle road racer and 250cc World Champion, and the 2010 and 2012 MotoGP World Champion. Lorenzo currently competes in the MotoGP class, riding for the factory Yamaha team. Commenting on the opening of the Yamaha Café, Mr. Eqbal Al Yousuf, President of Al Yousuf Group said: “Our association with Yamaha has been a long-standing and highly fruitful one. The opening of the café marks a new beginning in our enduring relationship as we expand into the restaurant and café business. We are very pleased to open this unique café in Dubai in association with Yamaha. “The Yamaha Café is unique blend of Japanese elegance and a biker’s ruggedness. The BoxParkoffers an ideal location for the café, being the latest and one of the liveliest hotspots in the city. We are certain it will be a huge success in the UAE.” Yamaha Café is located at The BoxPark, Al Wasl Road, Dubai. 28 Curiosity May - June 2015

MASS PERSONALISATION AND DIGITAL ARE KEY FOR UAE HOTELS IN RUN UP TO 2020

he hotel industry has lagged behind other sectors in adopting technology to meet customer led demand, according to a new report from Grant Thornton, the global professional services firm. A summary of the findings of the ‘Hotels 2020: Welcoming Tomorrow’s Guests’ report was presented to a distinguished group of UAE hotel industry leaders at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. The report found that hotels must put mobile technology at the centre of their customer experience as they race to catch up and compete in the ‘sharing economy’, where services such as AirBnB are challenging the traditional business model. The findings are particularly relevant to the UAE, where the hotel industry continues to flourish. Recent figures from Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) show steady year-on-year growth and significant increases in hotel establishment revenues and guest nights. Dubai's hotel establishments alone welcomed 11,629,578 guests in 2014, registering a 5.6 percent increase on 2013's total. Commenting on the report, Hisham Farouk, CEO of Grant Thornton UAE said: “Over the past decade the UAE has rewritten the rule book and set the standard for innovation in the global hotel and hospitality sector. Hoteliers in the UAE must act now to embrace new technologies and adapt to changing customer demands. They must differentiate themselves by making a reality of mass personalisation - whilst keeping the human touch -

to continue to surprise and delight guests along with further standing out from the competition.” A key driver of the ‘personalisation’ trend has been the increasing spending power of millennials, digital natives looking for local, authentic experiences when travelling. This demographic group are set to outspend baby boomers in hotels by 2017 and expect increasingly tailored services, such as mobile room customisation and special in-app offers. With the number of Chinese tourists alone expected to double to over 200 million by 2020, rising numbers of travellers from emerging markets also means hotels need to change their services to cater for new needs and preferences. The report highlights that the hotel industry has been lagging behind other industries when it comes to mobile personalisation; from retailers and personal finance providers to travel companies and restaurants, mobile technology – and especially apps – are being developed at a rate of knots to provide accessible, customised customer services. The report urges hotels to consider apps that personalise elements of the entire guest experience, going beyond the simple logistical processes of room booking and check-in to allowing guests to truly tailor their stay through their smartphone. Gillian Saunders, Global Leader of Leisure & Hospitality at Grant Thornton, who presented the main findings of the report on Monday evening said: “Hotels need to work to understand their guests’ requirements, making the most of big data to analyse and establish where personalisation through better use of mobile can really add value. It’s all about striking the right balance between apps

and technology, as well as human interaction, which is still hugely valued. Get it wrong and you risk alienating your customers. Get it right and you can reap the rewards.” Some hotel chains are already looking at technology to personalise the guest experience. For example, Hilton Worldwide are developing a mobile check-in and checkout service, and the RitzCarlton app, launched last year, provides concierge services including booking reservations, local city guides and special offers. However, with recent privacy concerns around the amount of data shared through cloud platforms and mobile devices, the report warns that hotels must be mindful of how much data is likely to be shared by guests, and therefore work closely with consumers to ensure that personalisation is introduced at a level that is comfortable and achievable for both parties. Hisham Farouk concluded by saying “hotels must act now, the Grant Thornton Hotels 2020 report, shares some key insights into welcoming tomorrow guest’s. The trends highlighted need to be taken into consideration by UAE hoteliers as the competition increases with the emergence of mid-tier and affordable hotels. Given the Expo is coming to the UAE in 2020, it is already set to be a memorable year but how will this impact hoteliers, pre and post the Expo? The report findings need to be considered in order to ensure they remain competitive once the Expo concludes.” He stated “this will continue to further support the UAE to remain resilient further positioning it as the central hub of the Middle East known internationally for innovation, excellence and as the investors market of choice.” May - June 2015 Curiosity 29

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British Airways A380 Now flies to the ‘City by the Bay’ It’s California dreaming all the way to San Francisco thanks to British Airways’ new A380 that has started flying to the popular US city. The ‘City by the Bay’ is the second destination in California after Los Angeles – and the third US destination following the launch to Washington DC in October 2014 – to welcome the British Airways superjumbo. British Airways’ flagship luxurious double-decker offering stylish seating for 469 customers, now operates five services a week during the summer months from Terminal 5, its home at London Heathrow.

Later this year, Miami in Florida will also be receiving an A380 taking the total to eight routes that British Airways services with an A380 (Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Singapore, Washington, San Francisco and Miami). Paolo De Renzis, British Airways’ Area Commercial Manager for the Middle East & Central Asia said: “San Francisco is a firm favourite with our customers so we couldn’t be happier that they are now able to fly there on one of the newest and most advanced aircraft in our fleet. “They’ll be able to enjoy a taste of luxury and

relax all the way to the west coast in comfort and style and be able to choose from more than 130 movies and 650 TV shows from our latest in-flight entertainment system, as well as enjoy the very best of height-cuisine.” Flying over the Atlantic doesn’t mean looking out over a plain stretch of water, as this route offers some of the most magnificent sights of the planet. “Customers can enjoy seeing the Northern Lights on a night flight between San Francisco and London. It is just superb and an experience really worth staying awake for on a trans-Atlantic flight,” remarks Steve Allright, Captain at British Airways. Customers flying to San Francisco on board the A380 can choose from 14 stunning First suites on the main deck and 97 Club World seats split between the main and upper deck, which features a new 2:3:2 configuration. The popular World Traveller Plus cabin has been increased to 55 seats and this is in addition to 303 seats available in World Traveller. The double decked aircraft also offers one of the quietest cabins in the sky, with bigger overhead bins, extra storage space, cleaner air, mood lighting and more power sockets for personal electronic equipment.

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The Ajman Palace Hotel to Make Strong Presence at Arabian Travel Market 2015

he Ajman Palace Hotel is all set to showcase its facilities at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2015, which will be held at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 4-7, 2015, bringing together market leaders representing travel, leisure and hospitality sectors from across the globe. The Arabian Travel Market is recognised as the leading travel industry exhibition that attracted over 23,500 visitors in 2014 registering a 12% increase in overall visitors compared to 2013, with 14,838 meeting requests made.

Ferghal Purcell General Manager - The Ajman Palace Hotel

Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel, said that such events always provide an excellent opportunity to connect with other international destinations and tourism companies to exchange experiences and to do business with. “We are looking forward to ATM 2015 to strengthen our market presence as well as establish new partnership with key players especially from

China, India and German markets as all indicators are pointing towards another strong year of tourism arrivals from these three countries. We are confident that our presence at the ATM 2015 will open doors for sustained growth in the future.” At the ATM 2015, the hotel will be represented at two booths – at the Ajman Tourism Development Department pavilion and also under the banner of HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings. Ferghal Purcell will be available at both the places for appointments with the existing partners as well as new potential partners. “This year is a particularly exciting one for us as our sales team has received encouraging response from various travel shows in the world where we highlighted the unique opportunities that we offer to international players looking for a new destination for business or pleasure. We are confident of establishing new partnership as well as cementing the existing ones and growing business together.”

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ATDD and Abu Dhabi's Festival Committee Sign Agreement

Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) entered into a cooperation agreement with Cultural Program and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi regarding a number of UAE cultural tourism activities. The agreement was signed by ATDD General Manager Faisal Ahmed Al Nuaimi and Committee Member and Liwa Dates Festival Manager Obeid Khalfan Al Mazroo’ie, with ATDD Tourism Development and Marketing Director Khulood Khalid Al Nuaimi and Committee Member Essa Seif Al Mazroo’ie attending. The agreement has many targets, on top of which is holding the Liwa Dates Festival’s replica in Ajman, according to the ATDD general manager. “Liwa-Ajman Dates Festival, planned to be an annual event in Ajman, serves many sectors and segments; tourists, residents, history and heritage specialists and farmers,” said Faisal Al Nuaimi, adding that “the event is expected to be held on August 5-7”. “ATDD and Abu Dhabi’s Committee are keen on working together serving tourism industry development efforts in both emirates,” he added.

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For his part, Liwa Dates Festival manager said the event serves efforts to promote UAE culture and heritage on the regional and international levels. “It also supports sustainable tourism development and plans to lure more investments in the tourism sectors,” he added. “The agreement represents a general framework for cooperation in the fields of information and expertise exchange”, he said, adding that a joint committee would be formed to implement and follow up all procedural steps leading to holding Liwa-Ajman Dates Festival. The first round of Liwa-Ajman Dates Festival, organized by Ajman Culture and Media Department in 2011, had been held under the patronage of Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman HH Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi and Ajman Crown Prince Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s Committee Member Essa Seif Al Mazroo’ie announced that the 11th Liwa Dates Festival would be held on July 20-30 under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Affairs Minister Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Atana Hotels to Participate in Arabian Travel Market 2015

ttending ATM 2015 for the first time, as an exhibitor on the Oman stand ME2010, Atana Hotels will be showcasing not only the resorts located on the Musandam peninsula of Oman but also the two eco resorts, Ras Al Hinz Turtle Reserve and Masira Island Resort, both in Oman.

Well known to local Omani and UAE weekend trippers, the Musandam peninsula is home to the Atana Khasab Hotel and the newly opened Atana Musandam Hotel. Just 2 hours’ drive from Dubai, the hotels are popular with tourists and residents wishing to enjoy a pure Omani experience that combines aspects of Oman’s rich heritage with the extraordinary tourism elements of the Musandam peninsula. The juxtaposition of sea and mountains has earned this region the nickname of the ‘Norway of Arabia’, and is well known for boat excursions for viewing the native dolphins, scuba diving and snorkelling as well as exploration of the many archaeological sites in the area. Pascal Eppink, Managing Director, recently joined by Leon Salinel as Corporate Director of Sales & Marketing, is heading the drive to establish and expand the home-grown Oman hotel chain throughout the country.

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Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel to Showcase Facilities at ATM 2015 The Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel (AFOCH), Abu Dhabi, will participate in the forthcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2015, which will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Dubai from May 4-7, 2015. AFOCH wishes to reinforce its market presence and establish relationships with key players with in the regional and international tourism industry.ss The Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel Deputy Director General Mr. Peter Freeman said that the Arabian Travel Market is a vibrant must attend B2B event. This leading global show offers the travel industry a unique opportunity to meet, network, negotiate and conduct business under one roof. This is also an ideal platform to keep up with the latest developments in the industry. He said, “We will introduce our hotel’s facilities and services to potential customers who will be attending the four-day annual gathering of tourism industry. Our aim is to give visitors an

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opportunity to discover this iconic landmark where the local identity embraces other cultures while maintaining its unique flair.” Mr. Freeman expressed confidence that the hotel’s participation in the largest travel trade event in the Middle East will highlight the exceptional aspects of the property. The B2B meet with the regional inbound tourism professionals will also help in unlocking the business potential. He said, “The key travel and tour operators will be introduced to the true values of the Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel family and its unique style of hospitality. Such an experience will definitely result in enhanced opportunities to build relations as it will provide them with greater business confidence.” The Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel will be presenting its outstanding property in ATM 2015 sharing stand with Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, located in Hall 2, Stand UAE 2110.

It’s Always Strike Time at Cosmic Bowling Bar at Kempinski Hotel Ajman Kempinski Hotel Ajman proudly presents its unique venue - Cosmic Bowling. It is the very first, and so far, the only bowling bar in the United Arab Emirates, which is directly connected to the bar.

People usually tend to warm up the evening by bowling or taking turns singing in the karaoke room, and once the resident DJ Alina has unwinded her beats, people gather on the floor to dance the night away. Andreas Hahn, the manager of Cosmic Bowling and World Cup Bar said that he has been working in hospitality for more than six years, but has never seen such a number of regular guests returning to one outlet. “It is absolutely fantastic to see loyal guests returning evening after evening. Whether it is for the service, the music or the venue itself, there is a large number of regular players who are here every night just for the practice. They arrive after work, put on their shoes and gloves, take the bowling balls out of the bags and enjoy the game. They are professionals and our other guests enjoy learning

different tricks and technical tips from them. Since there are a lot of professionals and people who just like to bowl for fun, we have successfully organised bowling competitions. The last one took place a couple of months ago and was organised only for ladies - the Cosmic Bowling Ladies Tournament. At the end of every year, we challenge the near-by hotels to put together their best players and compete between hotels. The outcome is beneficial both ways - we create awareness among the people who are living here and the hoteliers get a fun evening out, as well as a chance to win different prizes.” Mr Hahn continued, ''Last year we signed the contract with lady DJ Alina, who has played her best hits behind the DJ booth since November 2014. Alina performs daily from 9:00pm until 1:00am, with the exception of Mondays.

Cosmic Bowling opened its doors at the end of 1998 and within time, has gone through a total makeover. It is still open seven days a week and welcomes players no matter their age or skill level. It’s open on weekdays from 5:00pm until 2:00am and during weekends from 3:00pm until 2:00am. It attracts crowds from all over the Emirates, whether it is for a birthday party or a challenging bowling night out with friends. The whole Cosmic Bowling bar consists of six bowling lanes, two pool tables, a large bar, a sitting area with ten tables and a newly opened karaoke studio. There is also available a large menu with a variety of food and beverages.

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The Ajman Palace Hotel Targets India

The Ajman Palace Hotel participated in a road show in India from 5th to 9th April to showcase its luxurious facilities to trade partners as well as potential customers in four metro cities including New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai Organised by Dubai’s premier destination management company Lama Tours to promote the UAE as a destination in India and to assess the unique needs of the Indian market, the road show also included representatives of leading airlines, travel and tourism companies as well as other hotels. Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of The Ajman Palace Hotel, said that the hotel was participating for the first time in a road show in India. But he was confident about the prospects of making inroads into the nation’s outbound tourism market. He said that India is currently the third most important source market for the UAE, after Saudi Arabia and the UK, as per a report by Business Monitor International (BMI), which also reveals that the hotel industry is heavily geared towards luxury and business travellers. Ferghal said, “India is a very significant market for us. The road helped us to

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penetrate further the market by meeting face to face with potential partners and customers. Our primary objective was to spread awareness about The Ajman Palace Hotel and its fabulous facilities including the outstanding wedding and convention facilities. Road shows such as these play a crucial role in boosting the number of inbound tourists. It allowed us to understand the requirements of visitors from India and tailor best packages to suit their needs". According to a recent report by the BMI, the UAE tourism industry will continue to expand in 2015, with 7.6 per cent year-on-year growth in tourist arrivals and 9.3 per cent increase in tourism receipts. The report predicted that total tourism receipts would cross the $20 billion mark in 2015. Inbound tourists will reach 16.47 million this year. The forecast is supported by the tourism statistics 2014 released by the Ajman Tourism Development Department, which shows that the Ajman tourism revenues reached nearly AED300 million in 2014 compared to AED220 million in 2013. The number of hotel and hotel apartments’ guests in 2014 increased to 850,000 compared to 600,000 in the previous year. In 2014, average hotel occupancy rates reached 65 per cent.

New Canada Visa Application Centre for Residents of UAE opens in Dubai VFS Global, as part of a contract awarded by the Government of Canada introduced Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) services in Dubai for applicants wishing to travel to Canada. As per the contract, VFS Global will establish a robust worldwide network of up to 125 CVACs. This centre is the second such centre in the UAE. Canada Visa Application Services have also been introduced in Oman earlier in March. This global network of CVACs will provide increased access and enhanced administrative services to applicants through a consistent service delivery approach, which will also support biometrics implementation. VFS Global is pleased to announce the opening of the Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) at Wafi Mall in Dubai. The CVAC commenced operation on 19 March 2015. “This new Visa Application Centre in Dubai will offer another service option to travellers in the UAE, in addition to our VAC in Abu Dhabi” stated HE Emmanuel Kamarianakis, Canada’s Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates. “Canada’s partnership with VFS Global complements the excellent visa services already offered nationally online through e-applications.” Mr Ajit Alexander, Chief Operating Officer, VFS Global added, “It is our

privilege to extend our network of services to the Government of Canada in UAE. With the Canada Visa Application Centre in Dubai we work towards making the process convenient and accessible. VFS Global is committed to delivering a world class service and customer experience”. The CVAC will provide exclusive service for the Government of Canada, and is authorised to accept applications in all temporary resident categories (visitor visas, study and work permits) and travel document applications from Canadian permanent residents in UAE. The CVAC is authorised to provide administrative support services, such as the collection of visa applications, and return of passports in sealed decision envelopes to applicants. The CVAC can also assist in scheduling interviews on behalf of the Canadian visa office. The decision to issue or refuse a visa is made solely by immigration officers of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), in accordance with Canada’s immigration visa rules and guidelines. The CVAC has no role or influence over the outcome of an application and will not offer any evaluative advice. The use of CVACs is voluntary. Such service may also be obtained directly from CIC, by using CIC’s Online Application (E-Apps) system. May - June 2015 Curiosity 37

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Grand Millennium Dubai to Showcase New Developments at Arabian Travel Market The Grand Millennium Dubai will be on show at the Arabian Travel Market exhibition in the emirate this May to reinforce its position as a city hotel catering superbly to leisure and business visitors, both from the GCC region and overseas. According to General Manager Peter Mansourian, while business was extremely dynamic and profitable in 2014, increased competition in the hotel sector in Dubai is good news for the customer.

changes, with a new outlet serving authentic Arabic cuisine added to the menu. In addition, visitors to the Arabian Travel Market between May 4th and 7thwill learn more about plans to revamp the hotel’s signature Asian restaurant, located on the 18th floor and offering superb views of the Dubai skyline as well as five Asian cuisines under one roof.

“Demand has increased but so has the hotel inventory in the city and we expect occupancy levels to remain similar to last year,” he said. “Existing hotels have to finesse their products to compete for business as customers will be looking for more than just the best rate.”

“We are very excited about the refurbishment plans for Toshi, which have been designed to make the restaurant the new ‘talk of the town’ venue in Dubai,” said Mr. Mansourian. “Dining and spa facilities, along with value rates and fivestar service, mean the Grand Millennium has all the essentials to offer visitors to the city, whether they are coming here for business or for leisure.”

Following the refurbishment of hotel apartments last year at the Grand Millennium Dubai, the hotel’s vibrant restaurant portfolio is undergoing

Grand Millennium Dubai will be present at Millennium and Copthorne Corporate Stand during ATM. Stand No. HC6650

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Peter Mansourian General Manager Grand Millennium Dubai

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Saudi Arabia is Priority Market for Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel

Hartmut Grauel General Manager Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel

The world's largest oil and gas company is the target of a major sales push by the Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel which sent a team to participate in the Aramco Travel Show that took place in Jeddah. The event provided an excellent platform to showcase the facilities of the hotel to an audience that included the 57,000 employees of the Saudi Arabian conglomerate, as well as their families. According to General Manager of the Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel, Hartmut Grauel, nearly 87 per cent of staff at the oil giant are Saudi Arabian citizens, many of whom prefer to travel to regional destinations for their long summer break. "While the number of Saudi Arabians visiting Lebanon dropped 1.9 per cent in the first eight months of 2014, the country is still the fourth biggest regional market for Lebanon, and the largest in the GCC - as well as being one of the highest spending," he said. "With a convenient central location in Beirut, spacious rooms, private parking and free Internet access, the Coral Beirut Al Hamra offers an ideal base in the Lebanese capital for families wishing to escape to the seaside for the summer and we look forward to introducing these facilities at the Aramco Travel Show to increase business from this market." 42 Curiosity May - June 2015

Cristal Hotels on Show At the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai

Peter Blackburn President & C.E.O Cristal Group

With three hotels opening in Saudi Arabia by next year, Abu Dhabi based Cristal Hospitality will be in Dubai next month to update representatives of both the regional and international travel trade at the Middle East’s largest travel exhibition, Arabian Travel Market taking place between May 3rd and 7th. According to President & C.E.O. of Cristal Group, Peter Blackburn, the event is an ideal opportunity to promote the Cristal name to a wider audience as well as introduce the new properties to existing customers: “We are delighted to have recently opened a new 100-room five-star hotel in Erbil, Kurdistan that features three restaurants as well as a large garden venue, spa, indoor pool and a ballroom”. “In addition, we have two hotels nearing completion in Riyadh and a further business property opening in Dammam, giving us a presence in four countries, including the UAE, Iraq and Lebanon – with a total portfolio of 16 current hotels and projects across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.” Saudi Arabia is the major economy in the GCC region and has committed to boost tourism as an industry and employer with tourism projects valued at more than US$11.6bn currently underway in the Kingdom – overall, religious tourism is estimated to contribute US$45.3bn to the economy complementing the major petrochemical sector. “With three hotels launching in one year, we will at once have a significant presence in the major cities in Saudi Arabia, and Arabian Travel Market provides an excellent opportunity to promote, sell and package these to key travel trade partners,” said Mr. Blackburn. Cristal Hotels will be exhibiting on the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority stand, UAE2110, at ATM. For more information visit www.cristalhospitality.com May - June 2015 Curiosity 43

Ajman Museum It was firstly established as Ajman Fort; one of the main historical attractions in the United Arab Emirates. It succeeded, over the years, to convey the reality of UAE life in different eras. This fort was the stronghold of the leadership, representing the political authority in the emirate and the first line of its defense. This historical landmark stands tall as a record of the exploits of ancestors and their immortal heritage, and thanks to a generous gesture of HH Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and ruler of Ajman, he gifted this fort to the people of the United Arab Emirates by converting it into a fully-fledged museum displaying models of antiquities and traditional industries and artifacts as well as images portraying the way of life in the past.

Al Manama Museum (Al Mareer Fort) This fort was built at the time of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, and it features a yard overlooking seven large rooms and a well, used in drinking water, in addition to a guardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tower. The fort was surrounded by palm trees irrigated by the old Al Manama Falaj (man-made water channels) that emanates from mountain tops relying on water supplied by rain fall. Ideally located in mountainous areas and valleys where high underground water levels was used to irrigate farms. Based on His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman and Member of the UAE Supreme Council instruction AlMaerre fort has been changed to AlManama museum on the second of December 2012.

The Red Fort The Red Fort was built during the time of Sheikh Humaid bin Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi, and consists of four rooms and two towers, each made of two rooms. In 1986, following instructions from HH Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, a complete restoration of the fort was completed and a third tower was added to the two older towers. Gravel and red plaster were used in the construction of the walls of the fort and hence it was named the red fort. Sandal wood was used in the beams and supports for the construction of the roofs. The fort is completely surrounded by trees from all directions and a well is located close to the fort that was used in drinking water extracted from it.

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Al-Murabbaa Watchtower Located on the Ajman Corniche, Al-Murabaa Watchtower is one of the most important tourist attractions in the emirate. It was built in the 1930s upon directives from late Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi (1982-1981), the then ruler of Ajman to provide security for Ajman residents. It was rehabilitated in 2000 upon directives from His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al-Nuaimi.

Hassa Buweid (White Stones) Castle This castle represents another legacy in the historical heritage of the Emirate of Ajman as Hassa Buweid is still present today since it was built by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi in 1976 on top of a gravel and stones hill called “Hassa Buweid”, in reference to its white color stones. The castle’s main purpose was to provide protection and was designed as a square tower comprising two rooms similar, in architecture, to other castles built at the time.

Masfout Gate Masfout Gate was built by late Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi in 1961. This is considered as a main entrance to the residents and visitors of Masfout. On this gate, those who come in read Arrivals are welcome, while those who go out read Good Bye if you want to go to Manama; otherwise another country. Beside the gate, there is a control tower for arresting skulkers.

Ajman Equestrian Club Unsurprisingly, Ajman is extremely proud of its equestrian heritage, and visitors are invited to saddle up at the Ajman Equestrian Club. It houses more than 100 welltrained Arabian horses and offers a range of lessons and riding activities. Expert trainers are on hand to offer instruction in a number of languages, and even total beginners can try their hand at the sport and rent the necessary livery on-site.

Masfout Castle

The perfect way to also stay active in the sun.

Masfout Castle lies on top of mountains. It lies on the northern borders of Masfout. It is an old castle. It was built in the 19th century. The castle consists of two rooms and a gate. When late Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi became governor in 1947, he renewed it. At that time, this castle (which was and still is lofty) was used as a means of protecting the area from bandits heading to the Sultanate of Oman.

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Al Zorah Nature Reserve With a 7km waterfront, embracing the changing shades of the Arabian Gulf Sea and a 2km silky and pure sand beach, Al Zorah natural reserve allows discovering yet other natural wonders: lucent lagoons, creeks and an inviting natural mangrove forest swarming with 58 bird species. A highest priority is given to the management and preservation of Ajmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coastal treasure: the mangrove forest. Extending over 2 square km of biologically and ecologically rich wetland, the mangrove area is also the first nursery of the coast. By contemplating the Al Zorah coastline, nature lovers will get to discover many species, including the emblematic pink flamingo. Regular and migratory birds inhabit the marine zones, turquoise lagoons, mangrove and dunes areas.

Al Naseem Nature Reserve A natural area, currently under development in Manama area. Al Naseem Nature Reserve is expected to showcase the beauty of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural landscape while protecting its rarest flora and fauna. When completed, the nature reserve will feature a number of natural parks, a nursery for plants, and an education centre for students, biologists and others interested in learning more about the landscape.

The Ajman Arabian Horse Stud Farm The Ajman Arabian Horse Stud Farm, owned by HH Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, is home to some of the finest Arabian horses in the world.

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Samsonite has unveiled the SBL Alta II â&#x20AC;&#x201C; yet another iconic timeless classic design under its elite badge of Samsonite Black Label. This collection combines the need of technology and innovation in an ultra tough polycarbonate shell. Its aluminum framed shell helps to deliver ultimate protection for the luggage. The SBL Alta II is put together with modern metal hardware in gunmetal finishing, sophisticatedly designed texturational printing technology, lightweight aluminiumframed shell to maximize strength and durability, multi-directional smooth and silent wheels, ultratough 100% polycarbonate shell and TSA lock to ensure worry-free travel. Samsonite Alta II is available in black and dark brown colors and comes in two different sizes.

American Tourister American Tourister Cube Pop is the new icon of travel. Featuring funky hues and generous trunk space, the American Tourister Cube Pop suitcases have been crafted to help you travel the world. Finished with a slick gloss exterior, Cube Pop is perfect for first-time international adventures, a getaway to the beach or a family trip to your favorite destination. The Cube Pop luggage collection is chic, modern and equipped for whatever comes your way when on the road. The main features of American Tourister Cube Pop include huge volume capacity with a lightweight design, lightweight lid for easy lifting and generous trunk size for easy packing. While the 360 degree multidirectional spinner wheels aids swiftness & control, the inbuilt TSA combination lock provides security to you. The fully lined interior with cross ribbons, divider and pocket on the other hand makes your packing much easier & hassle-fre A leading distributor and retailer based in the UAE for past three decades - GRAND STORES is the sole authorized distributor of Samsonite and American Tourister products in the United Arab Emirates.

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Chilli Beans Spices up UAE’s Fashion Landscape Hot sunglasses brand opens up its first store in Dubai Mall

The joy of travelling is usually the destination, but shopping makes it even more enjoyable. Here are some cool picks…

Brush iQ, brush on beauty genius from Tweezerman

For a flawless complexion, and flattering eyes, Tweezerman, the beauty tools expert has introduce Brush iQ, a range of 12 assorted brushes designed to apply, distribute and deliver professional looking make-up application, even in front of the bathroom mirror.

Penhaligon’s Launches Ostara This spring, Penhaligon’s launched Ostara, a luminous solar floral created by Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour. Inspired by the daffodil, the fragrance is a modern interpretation of this delicate and incandescent flower. An olfactory journey - from bulb to bud to bloom.

GUESS launches Summer’15 Collection GUESS, the iconic young and adventurous global lifestyle brand previewed its new summer collection at an in store trunk show in Dubai Marina Mall recently. Embracing the latest trends, the new collection features the ultimate summer reverie with vibrant colors and unique designs, offering some great wardrobe inspiration. The event attended by fashion savvy customers and bloggers saw models showcase more than 30 looks from the new stylish collection. Welcoming the warmer weather, the collection features flirty florals, signature animal prints, understated black and white monochrome and the eye-catching patterns on casuals. 48 Curiosity May - June 2015

Jabra introduces a new member to the workout team:Sport Rox Wireless Jabra's new Sport Rox Wireless is designed for ultimate sporters pushing workout limits harder. The premium wireless workout earbuds will go as mobile as you are with pumping rich Dolby® sound. Control music playback, volume and take calls, only with a quick tap on the earbuds. Locking into place, ultra-secure Sport Rox Wireless EarGels™ and EarWings™ provide maximum comfort even in extreme workouts. Crafted to last with solid steel, they're sweat- and stormproof complying with US Military rain, shock, sand, and dust standards. If you ever need to pause for a while, all you need to do is to simply clip the earbuds together around your neck to save battery.

Syoss Keratin Hair Perfection: Strength and structural repair for dry, weak hair Now, with the new Syoss Keratin Hair Perfection, women can boost and moisturise weak, dry hair with professional treatment at home and make it easier to style. The professional formula with the innovative Keratin Primer repairs the hair deep down inside the cells and replenishes lost keratin.

Lolita Lempicka reveals S W E E T, i t s utmost feminine perfume

Delighting in the pleasures of being a woman, Lolita Lempicka reveals its latest creation that resembles the overwhelming femininity in a scent that speaks of the true Lolita Lempicka woman. A perfect combination of fruits and musk tells the story of provocation, allure, desire, indulgence and appeal. Conceived by ANNE FLIPO, IFF perfumer and inspired creator, SWEET perfume is a mouth-watering scent from the very first note. Lolita Lempicka’s newest perfume SWEET is available in Paris Gallery stores across the UAE.

ARMAND BASI NATURAL EVOLUTION AND STYLE ROSE GLACÉE, the name of the new fragrance, embodies the tension that is in its makeup. Warm and cool, smooth but aggressive, friendly but treacherous, beautiful but ephemeral. It's perfect, though fragile, welcoming but prickly. To admire it is to experience the clash of passion and reason. A contemporary, modern and urban imprimatur on nature, rather than urban life modulated by nature. ARMAND BASI ROSE GLACÉE. The dew-strewn rose at dawn. The freshness that soothes impatience.

PHOTODERM From Paris to New York to Dubai, whatever the city and wherever you plan to travel this summer, protect your skin from harmful UV rays with the Photoderm suncare range from Bioderma. Packed in a stylish special edition box dedicated to some of the world’s greatest cities, the Photoderm Sunbox includes the essential sun protection needed for any outdoor activity.

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Mix & Match Mood of the moment at Harvey Nichols - Dubai: Sunny, funky and perfect for the season ahead Check out these cool finds...

By Sergio Rossi

By Dries Van Noten

By Victoria Beckham

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By Aquazurra Spring

By Chloe

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By Stella Jean

By Ivanka Trump

Pandorastruckgold Transparent By Charlotte Olympia By Tsumori Chisato

By Valentino Flower Earrings Green By Shourouk

Tresors Sautoir Mangareva By Robert Wan

Carole Lace Sandal By Gianvito Rossi

Lady Me Red Carpet Perforated White By Sara Battaglia

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going places

Taiwan: The Heart of Asia Taiwan remains largely undiscovered and seriously underrated by global travellers, but those that make it here are in for a real treat. With its rich heritage, majestic mountains, fantastic hiking trails, diverse folk traditions and feted night market scene, Taiwan is one of the most endearing destinations.

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LOCATION Taiwan's total land area is about 36,000 square kilometers (14,400 square miles). It is shaped like a leaf that is narrow at both ends. It lies off the southeastern coast of mainland Asia, across the Taiwan Strait from China - an island on the western edge of the Pacific Ocean. To the north is Japan; to the south is the Philippines. Many airlines fly to Taiwan, making it the perfect travel destination. Taiwan lies on the western edge of the Pacific "rim of fire," and continuous tectonic movements have created majestic peaks, rolling hills and plains, basins, coastlines, and other natural landscapes. Taiwan's tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate climates provide clear differentiation between the different seasons. There are rare or endangered species of wildlife on the island. Among these are the land-locked salmon, Taiwan serow, Formosan rock monkey, Formosan black bear, blue magpie, Mikado pheasant, and Hsuehshan grass lizard.

Taiwan was recently named one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top 5 travel destinations for 2015

The Taiwan government has established 9 national parks and 13 national scenic areas to preserve Taiwan's best natural ecological environment and cultural sites. There are various ways to discover the beauty of Taiwan. For example, trekking in the magnificence of the cliffs at Taroko Gorge; taking a ride on the Alishan Forest Railway and experiencing the breathtaking sunrise and sea of clouds; hiking up to the summit of Northeast Asia's highest peak, Yu Mountain (Yushan). You can also soak up the sun in Kending (Kenting), Asia's version of Hawaii; stand at the edge of Sun Moon Lake; wander through the East Rift Valley; or visit the offshore islands of Kinmen and Penghu. It's fun in capital letters as well as an awesome journey of natural discovery!

CULTURE & HERITAGE During Taiwanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long history, prehistoric people, indigenous tribes, Dutch, Spanish, Japanese, and Han Chinese have successively populated Taiwan, creating a varied culture and developing different local customs and traditions along the way. When visiting Taiwan, you will be able to come in touch with all aspects of this beautiful country's multifaceted cultures. Because of its unique historical and geographical background, Taiwan has a rich and varied culture composed of elements taken from many different ethnic groups, including the indigenous peoples, the Dutch, the Spanish, the Japanese, the Han Chinese (bringing traditions from China and creating their own in Taiwan), as well as more recently the Americans. Consequently, the customs and traditions that make up Taiwan's culture as we know it today are extremely vivid and mix different cultures. And not only that; the people who previously inhabited Taiwan also left many cultural remnants that can still be found around the island today, including traditional architecture, relics of prehistoric civilizations, folk art, and traditions. Taiwan's history goes as far back as two, three, even tens of thousands of years. According to 54 Curiosity May - June 2015

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Because of its unique historical and geographical background, Taiwan has a rich and varied culture composed of elements taken from many different ethnic groups

archeologists, prehistoric people were the first to have lived in Taiwan, proof of which can be found in archaeological dig and sites in Taitung and elsewhere.

also managed to preserve some of their traditional customs, tribal structures and architecture, and continue to keep the tribal spirit alive through the practice of traditional worship.

The indigenous people who first came to Taiwan so long ago form the northernmost branch of the Austronesia culture group. The indigenous people who remain today are divided into 16 tribes; the Amis, Atayal, Paiwan, Bunun, Puyuma, Rukai, Tsou, Saisiyat, Yami (or Tao), Thao, Kavalan, Truku, Sakizaya, and the Sediq, the Kanakanavu and the Hla'alua. Over the years, other tribes, especially flatland groups, increasingly came in contact with the Han Chinese, their daily lives becoming more and more integrated, and by now most have assimilated with the Chinese. The other tribes, however, have

Traces left by the Dutch, Spanish, and Japanese include Fort San Domingo in Tamsui and the remains of Anping Old Fort (Fort Zeelandia) in Tainan along with many other buildings such as the Presidential Office Building, the Legislative Yuan and Control Yuan buildings, various schools, and other large structures that now house governmental institutions, assembly halls etc., all testifying to the importation of foreign cultures into Taiwan. Nevertheless, the most important part in Taiwan's cultural history was played by May - June 2015 Curiosity 55

the Han Chinese who brought with them traditional customs from China and created new ones in Taiwan. Whether they were southern Fujianese who immigrated over the centuries, the Chinese who came in the late 1940s, or Hakkas, they created their own cultures, traces of which can still be found all over Taiwan. In Taipei, Tainan, and Lugang, for example, old cities, streets, and temples still breathe the atmosphere of times long gone, while traces of wars, settlements and different cultures can even be found on the off-shore islands of Kinmen, Matsu and Penghu. Next to these cultural remnants, Taiwan also offers a unique collection of art expression, such as Sanyi's wooden carvings, Yingge's pottery, and Kinmen's ceramics. Another important aspect of culture are the many holidays and festivals that the Taiwanese celebrate so passionately and devotedly, such as the Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Tomb Sweeping Festival, Ghost Festival, and temple festivals. By watching or even participating in these celebrations, one can get a better understanding of the cultural and historical background of the Taiwanese people. We would like to invite you to come to Taiwan, travel through time and go on a journey of past civilizations, relive the past, and experience these cultural treasures.

These are man-size costumes worn by temple workers during parades. They are popular in Taiwan. They form a core part of Chinese Culture.

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Advertorial Pienem sequi corrorum sendipit m hitet mo conseque quunt Sticky rice on the table

Taiwan offered to the gods to drink tea

Jiangzhe, Shanghai, Hunan, Sichuan, and Beijing. Following are descriptions of the characteristics and different cooking styles of dishes from different regions:

Food vendors operate at a night Market on Guangzhou Street. Night markets are a popular part of Taiwanese culture.

Taiwan:

Gourmet Chinese cuisine goes back to ancient times and achieves its present level of excellence through the accumulation of thousands of years of practical knowledge and experience in cookery. Emphasis is placed on the perfect combination of color, aroma, flavor, and appearance, through which the most common ingredients are transformed into culinary tours de force. In Taiwan, cooking techniques from all areas of China have fused; the Taiwanese have not only mastered the traditional local Chinese specialties, but have also used traditional techniques to develop new culinary treats. These features attract many tourists to Taiwan every year to savor these Chinese specialties, ranging from small steamed buns to boiled dumplings. Traditional Chinese food to be found all over Taiwan, next to Taiwanese and Hakka-style dishes, mainly including dishes from Fujian, Guangdong,

Taiwanese have not only mastered the traditional local Chinese specialties, but have also used traditional techniques to develop new culinary treats

Natural original flavors are preserved and the main focus is on light-seasoned, fresh, and simply flavored dishes. Thanks to Dutch and Japanese influences, raw and slightly water-scalded food is widely accepted.

Fujian:

Dominated by seafood, preferably steamed, mainly light-seasoned, with sweet and sour flavorings.

Guangdong:

Great variety of ingredients, focus on light-seasoned, fresh, smooth, sweet, tasty, and tender dishes. The main methods of food preparation consist of frying, baking, stir-frying, steaming, and boiling.

Jiangzhe:

Focus on original flavors, with methods of preparation consisting mainly of stewing, braising, steaming, and stir-frying, for all of which temperature control is the most important aspect. Flavors are light but do not lack taste, and bones are removed while keeping shapes intact. May - June 2015 Curiosity 57

Taiwan is ranked among the world's top 15 hot spring sites, harboring a great variety of springs, including hot springs, cold springs, mud springs, and seabed hot springs Shanghai:

Dishes breathing international fame originate here. Local flavors are adhered to and dishes are mostly oily, drowning in sauce and brightly colored.

Hunan:

Sour, hot, and rich flavors are the secrets behind the popular dishes from this area, with a wellknown specialty being smoked bacon. Dishes from Hunan and Sichuan show some similarities, with many dishes being spicy because of the use of large amounts of red pepper.

Sichuan:

Famous for its spicy-flavored dishes as dried and fresh red pepper is used during preparation; fish and other seafood is favored. Sichuan cuisine is extremely popular among those who favor stronglyflavored food.

Beijing:

A combination of flavors from all corners, magnificently and delicately prepared; dishes combine color, shape, flavor, and nutrition, and are mostly light and tender. 58 Curiosity May - June 2015

Hakka:

Dried and preserved materials form important ingredients in the Hakka kitchen; dishes are mostly strongly flavored (burnt, flavored, welldone, salty, fat).

HOT SPRINGS Hot springs, the hot tears of the earth, are one of the most precious gifts that the earth has given to us. Ever since the ancient times, people have recognized the rejuvenating and therapeutic properties of these natural resources. Taiwan is ranked among the world's top 15 hot spring sites, harboring a great variety of springs, including hot springs, cold springs, mud springs, and seabed hot springs. The island can proudly regard itself as one of the regions with the highest concentration and greatest variety of hot springs in the world. Hot springs are formed by natural waters that emerge from the bowels of the earth and that possess therapeutic properties said to have a positive effect on disorders of the nervous and digestive systems, the circulation, and the organs. People have

used hot springs to keep in good health for ages. In Taiwan, with its peculiar crustal structure and location on the fault line where the Euro-Asian and Philippine continental plates meet in the CircumPacific seismic zone, subterranean heat is spread across the island producing hot springs islandwide. With the exception of Changhua, Yunlin and Penghu counties, almost every city and county in Taiwan can find hot springs, and so it is well to see that by some tourists name Taiwan "the Hot Spring Kingdom". More than one hundred hot springs have been discovered in Taiwan, located in different geological areas including plains, mountains, valleys, and oceans. The highest concentration of hot springs can be found in the northern Taiwan, where the Datun (Tatun) Volcano is located, while along both sides of the central mountain range, covering an area that to the north is bordered by Yilan and to the south by Pingtung, the largest number of hot springs can be found. Hot springs found here make up more than 80% of all hot springs in Taiwan. As hot springs generally come from deep below the surface of the earth, when they emerge they bring

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along a high concentration and great variety of minerals that are mostly foreign to the human body and benefit our general health. Specific properties of hot springs vary depending on chemical composition, mineral concentration and water temperature. Taiwan has a great variety of springs, both cold and hot.

LOHAS At a time when the “LOHAS” trend (LOHAS means “Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability”) has become popular throughout the world, Taiwan offers you an endless number of ways, with an Oriental flair and a uniquely Taiwanese character, to stay healthy. Come to Taiwan and feel “LOHAS” the Taiwanese way, in the island’s cuisines, sports, leisure activities, and traditional health care therapies. In Taiwan, you can give your taste buds a treat and stay healthy at the same time by enjoying your fill of medicinal foods and healthful organic cuisine. If you are anxious to achieve a physical and mental balance, then you might try yoga, Zen meditation, martial arts, or Tai Chi to bring you tranquility the Oriental

way. If you just want to relax a bit during your trip, then a visit to one of Taiwan’s popular spas, a soak in a hot spring bath, or a soothing cup of traditional tea might be just the thing for you. If you want to experience the Chinese medical treatment that is receiving ever more attention around the world, then Taiwan will provide you with a health-travel environment of the highest quality. This brochure introduces Taiwan’s rich variety of health-giving resources so that you can experience, in the most relaxed and natural way possible, the island’s health culture and leisure travel at the same time.

OFFSHORE ISLANDS Are you looking for a place where the waters are clear, the skies are blue, and countless stars stud the sky at night? Or, would you like to wander through remote and picturesque fishing villages? Then pack your bags and visit the offshore islands of Taiwan! Taiwan is located along the southeast coast of the Asian continent, on the fault line where the Euro-

Asian and Philippine continental plates meet. This unique geographic location and frequent seismic activity not only created an extremely diversified topography and natural environment on Taiwan, but also resulted in the diverse characters of its off-shore islands. Main offshore islands include Penghu, Ludao (Green Island), Lanyu (Orchid Island), Kinmen, Matzu, Turtle Island, and Little Liuqiu. As their locations, topographical characteristics, and human activities differ; each has its own unique scenery and culture. Therefore, each island offers something different to satisfy the various needs of visitors, such as sightseeing, snorkeling, or sport fishing.

Penghu

The Penghu archipelago is Taiwan's offshore island group, situated in the straits that separate Taiwan from China. Penghu is made up of 90 small islands with a combined coastline that stretches more than 320 kilometers. Each season brings its own May - June 2015 Curiosity 59

Time for Taiwan

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Advertorial particular scenery, and rich natural and cultural resources can be found here. The landscape here is characterized by basaltic rocks, coral reefs, sea-eroded formations, and beaches, while the fishing culture and migratory birds add extra dimensions to the picture.

Ludao

Ludao, also known as Green Island, is located some 33 kilometers off the coast of Taitung in eastern Taiwan. It is a volcanic island where winds blow and waters eat away at the rocks all year round, creating a beautiful and diverse coast.

Lanyu

Lanyu, or Orchid Island, is situated off the southeastern coast of Taiwan; like Ludao, its neighbor to the north, it was raised from the sea by the accumulation of volcanic lava. It has a moist and rainy climate, and its mountain areas (which occupy most of the island) are covered with dense rain forests that are filled with a great variety of plant and animal life. Coral reefs decorate the surrounding seas, and the Japan Current which flows past brings in large numbers of fish. This makes Lanyu a

paradise for fishermen and skin divers. The island is inhabited mainly by people of the Yami tribe, the most primitive of Taiwan's indigenous peoples, who still keep much of their traditional culture and lifestyle. Their traditional stone houses were built mostly underground to avoid extremes of temperature as well as the ravages of typhoons. The Flying Fish and Boat Launching festivals are seen nowhere else on earth. In addition to savoring the beautiful island scenery, you can also enjoy a glimpse into the fascinating Yami culture during your trip to Lanyu.

Kinmen

Lying just 2,100 meters off the coast of China at the nearest point, this hilly island is composed mostly of granite and has a history that derives largely from war. It can, therefore, be termed a "battlefield island," and it possesses unique battlefield scenery. Kinmen also contains numerous traces of history, and the government has designated 21 historic sites within its small area. It also has large numbers of houses built in the traditional southern Fujianese threesided courtyard style, giving it a rich ancient atmosphere.

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Matsu

Situated in the northeast corner of the Taiwan Straits and separated from China by only a narrow strip of water, Matsu, like Kinmen to the south, is also made up largely of granite. Its scenery consists of sea-eroded terrain, natural sand and pebble beaches, sand dunes, precipitous cliffs, and other scenic features. In addition to its beautiful jagged coastline and the migratory birds that pass through Matsu also offers traditional eastern Fujian villages built on mountainsides as well as defensive fortifications built by the military.

Guishan Island (Turtle Island)

This small, solitary island located about 10 kilometers off the coast of Toucheng in Yilan County has a volcanic terrain that, from certain angles, looks like a turtle floating in the sea. Among the features of the island are high cliffs, steaming fumaroles, welling underwater hot springs, mountain peaks, sea-eroded caves, a lake, and unique cliff vegetation, as well as rich marine ecological resources. It is a perfect place to study volcanic terrain and the natural ecology.

Little Liuqiu

Lying in the sea about 14 kilometers to the southwest of Donggang in Pingtung County, Little Liuqiu is the only one of Taiwan's numerous offshore islands that is composed of coral. Three special features make this island unique: the finest location for viewing the sunset, the most species of coral, and a terrain made up of coral. Strange coral rock formations stand throughout the island, and its ocean scenery is entrancing. This is a fishing island whose inhabitants are intensely religious; there

are many temples here, each with its own unique features and special attractions. If you are longing for a peaceful holiday on an island, Little Liuqiu should be at the top of your list of choices. Let the clear transparent sea water, blue skies, and interesting local folk customs and cultures entertain your eyes and enrich your mind!

Ecotourism

If you want to know how beautiful Taiwan really is, you have to come and see for yourself. You will be amazed at the diversity of ancient species this beautiful and relatively young island has to offer. Come and explore its numerous mountains, forests, wetlands and oceans, and find an incredible collection of natural ecosystems. Taiwan lies off the southeast coast of the Asian Continent, where the tropical and subtropical zones May - June 2015 Curiosity 63

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Railroads The scenery along the railroad glides by in a neverending sequence of change, and each line has its own unique characteristics.

come together. Surrounded by the sea and dominated by high mountains created by tectonic action over the eons, the country features a full range of climates and terrains from the tropical to the frigid. The variations in weather, geology, and elevation give Taiwan an unparalleled richness of flora and fauna, including many endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. Taiwan is, in fact, a northern-hemisphere microcosm and natural treasure house that, truly, must be seen to be believed.

RAIL TOUR Taiwan's railways offer an endless variety of experience, and the scenery lining their routes provides an infinite range of fascinating scenery. If you want to get a close look at the island's beauties without having to suffer the troubles of unfamiliar roads and the frustrations of traffic congestion, then you could do no better than choose a railroad tour and immerse yourself in the delights of enchanting coastlines, awesome mountains, placid farmlands, and engrossing countryside. The history of railroads in Taiwan dates back to 1887, in the declining years of the Qing Dynasty, when court official Liu Ming-chuan started to work on a section of track in the northern part of the

hark back to the past and reveal unique facets of local history.

NIGHT MARKETS island. The Japanese expanded on that beginning when they occupied Taiwan from 1895 to 1945, and the round-the-island network was completed after the island was restored to Chinese rule. Today, more than a century after its small beginning, Taiwan's convenient railway network consists of the West Coast Trunk Railway, East Coast Trunk Railway, North-Link Railway, and South-Link Railway. Passenger service is divided into four classes, offering travelers a choice depending on their destination, the urgency of their trip, and the size of their pocketbooks. The scenery along the railroad glides by in a neverending sequence of change, and each line has its own unique characteristics. The long, narrow, mountainous nature of the island's terrain lines the length of the railways with exquisite scenes of mountains and rivers, and the rail passenger gains access to scenes that are out of reach of the highway. Taiwan's railroads are far more than just a tool of transportation; they embody a deep affinity with the development of local culture and society, and have left behind large numbers of historical relics, including old stations and track sections that

Next to these Chinese delicacies, the enormous variety of typical Taiwanese snacks is unique in the world and most perfectly illustrates the important place that the food culture takes into the lives of the Taiwanese people. Famous and unique Taiwanese snacks range from oyster omelets to fried rice noodles, tempura, Tainan Danzai noodles, Taiwanese spring rolls, rice tube pudding, and braised pork rice. Food is cheap and delicious, and by no means inferior, while each specialty gives you an insight in the people of the area it originates from. Typical Taiwanese snacks are found everywhere, but Taiwan's night markets in particular, each night market having its own traditions and characteristics, are the places where these snacks can be found in abundance. Trying out these snacks, tourists will be able to learn about different specialties, cultures and people from different areas, adding a whole new perspective to traveling.

May - June 2015 Curiosity 65

Mr Arthur Hsieh

Director, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Singapore Office

What are the strategies and plans to grow market in UAE and Middle East ? After a dazzling debut at the ATM last year, Taiwan Tourism is all set to step up its marketing initiatives in Middle East to attract more and more tourists. We are keen on developing a long term strategy for this market.

The island country of Taiwan has a perfect amalgam of splendid landscapes. Travelers can bask in the glory of towering mountains and beautiful beaches within a time span of 3 hours.

Beginning of May, a 4-city roadshow is slated to take place in Muscat, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Dammam. We will also be conducting a host of other trade consumer activities in the coming months with prime focus on UAE market. Through these activities, both trade and consumer are targeted to keep abreast with the destination offerings, USP’s and latest developments. Why do you feel Middle East is a significant market for TAIWAN ? Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is an independent city-state and is the most modern and progressive emirate in the UAE, and has rapidly developed in the tourism and trade sectors. UAE– it’s gitzy, glamorous and has burst into the International arena with a flourish that has left many gasping for breath! It is a premium inbound destination par excellence; but the outbound market from Dubai in particular, and the UAE and the Middle East in general has also been spurred on by a booming airline industry, worldclass airports and infrastructure and tax free income that eggs on travelers to splurge on new and exciting holiday spots. Helped by stronger economic conditions, rising disposable incomes and population growth; outbound departures from the UAE recorded a strong rise of 9% in volume in 2012; a trend that experts say will continue to rise over the next several decades. What would be your plans for ‘Repeat’ tourist footfalls on the soil of TAIWAN ? Taiwan has been ranked as one of the safest countries for tourists in Asia several times over. Taiwan as a country has a mélange of cultural influences, which makes it respectful, tolerant and sensitive towards various cultures and religions.

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Taiwanese respect all religions and culture; in fact there is a museum dedicated to religion in Taiwan! An ideal location for Muslim travellers to vacation in, Taiwan has many areas to enjoy and a multitude of activities to choose from. You can explore the Lee Foo Village theme park; the Kenting Main Street Night Market and beach, where you can Scuba dive, water jet ski and enjoy the banana boat ride; at Da Peng Bay you can try go-karting or sailing; sit back and enjoy the fabulous Kaohsiung Ten Drum performance; then there is the glamorous E-Da Hotel, Shopping Mall and E-Da theme park; Tamsui, Shimen Wedding Plaza, Juming Museum are also great venues to watch out for. Then there are the hot springs, the unique Yehliu Geological Park and the beautiful Wufengqi Waterfall , Orchid Garden, and the Shangrila Leisure Farming where you can make tofu (bean curd) and soya milk; walk and shop in the Xinyi Shopping District; and thrive in the electric vibe of the city of Taipei. Please describe TAIWAN as a perfect destination for adventure sports lovers? One look at a relief map of Taiwan shows you its huge adventure sports potential; bisected by northeast Asia’s highest mountains and with the rushing rivers and sheer cliffs of the east coast, this hidden paradise of outdoor pursuits is starting to attract more adventurous travellers from Asia and the rest of the world. As well as a haven for trekkers and mountaineers, the island also offers excellent conditions for a range of activities, from mountain biking and kayaking to paragliding and surfing, with many grassroots operators springing up to meet the needs of the adventure traveller. Taiwan offers hiking and trekking possibilities thanks to an extensive network of national parks, scenic areas and forest reserves. Given its hilly terrain and extensive trail network, Taiwan has some of the world’s top mountain biking, rivalling the best of North America and southern Europe. Heartstopping downhill courses, technical rock gardens, jumps and super-fast single track: the island has it all, and much is easily accessible from cities such as Taipei and Taichung. Taiwan is well known for its windsurfing, and the Penghu Islands are widely considered one of the world’s top windsurfing spots. Given the islands’ unique flatness, the

Advertorial northeast monsoon winds that whip across the strait are especially powerful here with wind speeds of up to 50 and sometimes even 60 knots possible in winter. And the horseshoe-like shape of the Penghu Archipelago generates an effect that squeezes every bit of the wind pressure, making it a spectacular place for sailing and boating. Is it by and large considered a destination for Shoppers of electronic goods/white goods ? From north to south, Taiwan is dotted with large shopping centers and department chain stores. Combining diverse leisure and entertainment facilities, these venues offer designer clothing, lifestyle products, food outlets, bookstores, movie house, wholesale warehouses, amusement centers, and others, providing the ultimate shopping environment. Moreover, several theme streets have sprung up, exhibiting an exciting blend of history and style, including Taipei's Ximenting and Kaohsiung's New Juejiang commercial area, attracting different consumer groups. Other venues, including the weekend jade markets and computer lane in Taipei's Guanghua commercial plaza, are very good places to find unexpected bargains. The area around the intersection of Zhongxiao and Dunhua South roads has become a major shopping area in Taipei's east district thanks to its convenient location. High-end boutiques are packed along Dunhua South Road between Xinyi and Zhongxiao East roads, presenting a tempting array of brand clothes, jewelry, shoes and leather items. The section between SOGO department store and Taipei Metro The Mall is an especially good bet for the fashionably acquisitive, with Cartier, Louis Vuitton, DKNY and other top brand boutiques to choose from. The Xinyi Planning District is Taipei’s newest trend-setting commercial district, embracing dozens of fashionable malls, restaurants and hotels between Xinyi Road sections 4 and 5. Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Department Store's New Life Square and A4 branches, Novel Hall for Performing Arts, New York New York mall, View Show Cinemas, Grand Hyatt Taipei Hotel, and Taipei 101 are just a few of the many places where you can satisfy your consumer cravings. By day, the Xinyi Planning District bustles with the fast-paced energy of business as Taipei's commercial and financial center. But at night, the skyscrapers come alight with eye-catching displays of LED lights, setting the mood for evening fun. How do you see the market growing in next 5 years on the tourism map ? The Middle East region is one of the world’s smallest, yet fast growing, tourist generating regions. With a population of more than 250 million, expected to swell to over 400 million by 2050, the region promises to be an attractive and lucrative market for travel destinations around the world. Travel agents in UAE and Middle East benefit from

a resilient outbound travel market due to presence of large expatriate population, high disposable income, and large proportion of leisure & VFR trips. 70% of the total outbound trips are made by expats residents and rest 30% by local Emiratis.

Every year, Taiwan’s medical tourism attracts a number of tourists from all over the world. The state-of-the-art medical facilities and impressive health care services have led to the booming field of health care in Taiwan.

The outbound trips from UAE are expected to increase by 2 million between 2012 to 2015. By 2030, Middle East is predicted to have a total of 81 million outbound travelers Emirates Airlines increasing network into new cities/ countries offer opportunities to capture tourists from the new source markets.

In 2007, IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook ranked Taiwan in 13th place in terms of health infrastructure; while in 2012, Cable News Network (CNN) praised the health insurance system in Taiwan. As of 2014, a total of 13 hospitals in Taiwan have been accredited by the Joint Commission International ( JCI); the most credible international accreditation programe for healthcare programs. Taiwan also offers health examinations and medical cosmetic services.

Middle Eastern travelers spend a lot of money when they travel. They travel in large groups and also stay longer when they go abroad. Please throw some light on food and entertainment attractions of TAIWAN ? As a multicultural, cosmopolitan country, Taiwan is a gourmet’s paradise. From vegetarian food to all varieties of Chinese food – you will find it all here. The ethnic diversity of Taiwan reflects in its cuisine as well. Meat, fish and seafood; Rice and noodles dishes; tofu and vegetarian fare and sweet savory pastries are most commonly eaten. Taiwan’s cuisine has also been influenced by its geographical location, and as it is an island, seafood figures prominently in their cooking style. Thanks to its sub tropical climate, Taiwan also has an abundant supply of various tropical fruits such as papayas, starfruit, melons, bananas and other citrus fruits. Taiwanese cuisine also uses a wide variety of spices and seasonings for flavour; soya sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, fermented black beans, pickled Daikon, mustard greens, peanuts, cilantro and basil. When in Taiwan, we highly recommend you try the famous roasted duck, smoked chicken, lamb hotpot, fish in wine sauce, scallop and turnip balls of the north to the camphor-tea duck, salty fried chicken with spices, honey ham, stir fried shrimp, dry fried eggplant, spicy bean curd of the south. The beautiful island has moved far beyond the traditional Chinese food it was always known for to Chinese style fast food chains, hamburger joints, pizzerias, Italian, Japanese, Thai restaurants and many others that serve Swiss fondues and German sausages. What are the best seasons to visit TAIWAN as per GCC travel requirements ? The Tropic of Cancer runs straight through the middle of Taiwan bringing with it tropical and subtropical weather. It typically presents an average temperature of 22 C (71.6 F) all year round. There is no severe cold in winter and no brutal summer heat. Taiwan always welcomes you with its pleasant seasons.

While on a Taiwan holiday, you can also enjoy the amazing culture and enjoy the night-markets in the capital city of Taipei. Taiwan is a great choice for those who are looking to combine their medical treatment with a memorable and enjoyable vacation. Taiwan is a beautiful island with tall mountains, lush forests, sandy beaches, sparkling and clean sea and great food! It has convenient and efficient transportation system and offers great shopping and bargains in electronics. So come to Taiwan for its healthcare services, abundant natural beauty and the divine local delicacies – and experience complete physical, mental and spiritual fulfillment in Taiwan! From UAE to TAIWAN and back – what are the air travel options and how economical are they ? Emirates’ offers daily direct connections from Dubai to Taipei. A number of other Middle Eastern Airlines fly with a stopover into Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport. Fares: Approx AED 3500 (Economy) A word for the visitors of Arabian Travel Market In Dubai. Being the world's largest orchid exporter, Taiwan is fondly known as the Kingdom of Orchids. To promote the rich and beautiful Orchid culture in Middle East, we are specially importing Orchids from Taiwan to design our booth at ATM. At this year’s ATM, we will be showcasing Taiwan’s tea culture at a LIVE tea making booth. Visit Taiwan Tourism at ATM 2015 Booth No. AS9135.

Please describe about sectors like education and healthcare in TAIWAN ? How is the Medical Tourism sector doing there ? Taiwan has the most advanced medical technologies and highly educated and professional health professionals.

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About Taiwan The Republic of China (Taiwan) was founded in 1912, making it the first democratic republic in Asia. In 1949, the government moved to Taiwan and maintained jurisdiction over an area encompassing the islands of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, Matsu, Dongsha, Zhongsha, and Nansha. Area: 36,000 square kilometers Population: 23 million Language: Mandarin / Taiwanese / Hakka / Indigenous Languages Religion: Buddhism / Taoism / Christianity / Islam President: Mr. Ma Ying-jeou

Advertorial Advertorial

Economy Taiwan is a major producer of computer technology; the main export market for Taiwanese goods is China

Getting Around Taiwan has three international airports: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Kaohsiung International Airport, and Taipei International (Songshan) Airport. Each offers convenient direct links to all major countries. In addition, the opening of international charter flight service at Taiwan's domestic airports, including airports in Hualien, Magong, Kinmen, Taitung and Taichung has been approved. For more information please visit the airport website

Visa Taiwan grants visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel for citizens of 45 countries and an online travel authority is valid for citizens of 7 counties/ territories. Taiwan has reciprocal and unilateral visa exemption arrangements with a relatively large number of countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months (except the citizens of Japan that can hold a passport valid for 3 months).

Health Taiwan, offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world, is quickly becoming a top medical tourism destination. Medical care is available through both public and private hospitals and the quality of medical care in Taiwan is excellent. Visitors receiving special medical treatment should bring a medical prescription or a letter of introduction from their family doctor, in case they need to purchase particular medicines. It is advisable that all visitors, irrespective of their nationality, take out a personal medical insurance policy.

Emergency In case of emergency call 119

cover story

Laurent A. Voivenel Chief Executive Officer HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings

HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings

is on a Roll and Turning Around its Fortunes is

LAURENT A. VOIVENEL

The Coolest CEO Laurent A. Voivenel belongs to the NEW GENERATION OF CEOS who has put HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings on a new course of success. Shortly after taking over the top post in 2013, he took some strategic decisions that have borne excellent results for the company. And key among these was the massive investment in technology that has completely revitalized HMH placing it at par with international hotel operators. Photographs By: Firoze Edassery

MH – Hospitality Management Holdings is the most credible and leading chain of Halalfriendly hotels operating across the MENA region. At the helm of the group is Laurent A. Voivenel who has over 30 years of extensive hotel management experience having served in key leadership roles at some of the world's most renowned hospitality groups such as Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Hotels & Resorts. Being based in the Middle East for the last 15 years, he has a sound understanding of the region's culture and its unique business dynamics that is helping him to take the company to new heights. With a towering presence and a strong personality Laurent instantly draws attention no matter where he is. His leadership style is unique just as his views are. Like him or not, there is no way to overlook him. Being a great communicator and negotiator, he compels his audiences to sit up and take note. And he is being heard in the right quarters having positioned HMH in the top league in Halal-friendly segment. Laurent joined HMH with a single mission: ‘We Say, We Do’ and lives by Honesty, Integrity and Financial Transparency. What does it take to be a good CEO? The suave and nattily dressed charismatic French man observes, “A CEO must, first and foremost, be a leader with a strong vision of what he/she really wants to achieve. He must then outline key objectives, align

people around those targets, and deliver on those goals. What gives you an edge is being passionate about what you do. One has to understand, the things that worked for us in the past are not going to work the same way going forward. Therefore, a CEO has to follow the pace of innovation that is dramatically transforming our industry”.

A CEO must, first and foremost, be a leader with a strong vision of what he really wants to achieve Laurent added, “As competitors are increasing, customers’ preferences are rapidly changing and new technologies are altering business landscapes overnight. It is very important for companies to be able to strategically adapt to these changes. People should never be afraid to change. The CEO should focus on creating an organization that can develop the speed to competitively react. In addition, to establishing global brands, a CEO should aggressively perform the role of the chief brand ambassador in order to reach out to global markets both mature and emerging”. May - June 2015 Curiosity 71

HMH is a fully-integrated global hotel services provider. The group offers hotel owners and developers a broad spectrum of comprehensive management solutions with five distinct, yet complementary, hotel brands catering to varied market segments from budget to luxury. These include The Ajman Palace Hotel, Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels. Laurent said, "When I joined the company, we had to overcome a number of challenges while maintaining continuity. I must say it has been a gut-wrenching rollercoaster ride so far. Turning around a company is a cerebral game of chess, one that isn't worth playing unless you have thought through how you are going to win before you even start. There is no simple or single formulaâ&#x20AC;?.

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Laurent is leading change… by ‘glocalizing’ that is all about achieving the right balance between globalizing and localizing. “We compete in an industry that is increasingly driven by technology, therefore, technology upgrades are a key priority for us. The more we bring in these sophisticated technologies, the higher the skills of the people needed to be able to use it. At HMH we are in a pole position with a strong, tech savvy, tech-enabled workforce, ready to make the most of the opportunities opened up by a global market place”. HMH is a key player in the halal-friendly segment in the Middle East and is the region's largest group to operate in the dry segment. Being a pioneer in establishing the region's first alcohol-free chain of hotels, it continues to be the only one to follow halal-friendly policy across all its brands.

HMH is a fullyintegrated global hotel service provider. The group offers hotel owners and developers a broad spectrum of comprehensive management solutions

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Laurent stressed, "At HMH we are uniquely positioned to capitalize on the 'halal' segment having been successful in penetrating it early. Over the years we have gathered an amazing experience both in terms of operations and market intelligence in the dry hotel segment that is one of our key strengths. Halal-friendly policy is part of the company’s culture and DNA and not simply a business decision. Unlike other companies whose aim is to have a share of the pie by creating standalone dry brands or hotels, all brands under HMH are halal-friendly no matter where we operate. Our primary objective is to offer our customers, be it corporate or leisure travellers, a safe and healthy environment". The company's development was derailed by recession and Arab Spring in Syria, Egypt, Yemen, Libya, Iraq and Bahrain that resulted in a major blow to its expansion. Laurent said, “When I

We compete in an industry that is increasingly driven by technology, therefore, technology upgrades are a key priority for us

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HMH is a key player in the halalfriendly segment in the Middle East and is the region's largest group to operate in the dry segment

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Leading change… joined HMH in 2013, the organisation had just completed ten eventful years since its formation and my challenge was to lead it into the next decade. A time when drastic advancements in technology, aviation and expanding middle class in key source markets are changing the very dynamics of our industry and business. Only companies that have the means and vision to meet and anticipate the demands of the new era will succeed and therefore my biggest priority was to put HMH on track to achieve excellence equipping it with the very best in terms of technology, talent and tools. I started with a single mission: ‘We Say, We Do’ and I must say I look back with a great sense of satisfaction”. As part of its expansion strategy, HMH is strengthening its presence at a solid pace in the region. The group operates 17 hotels in the MENA region and aims to triple its inventory of keys by 2020. Laurent stressed, “Development is a key focus for us and we have got some very exciting projects under consideration that are at various stages of negotiation. We definitely want to capitalize on the opportunity presented by Dubai Expo 2020 and FIFA World Cup in Qatar. However, we wish to grow the path according to our strategic plan that is sustainable in a physical sense. It is not only about business opportunities out there, rather our strategy is to drive ‘Value over Volume’. The GCC, particularly the UAE and KSA, is central to our growth. By 2020 our goal is to have a hotel in every GCC country while doubling May - June 2015 Curiosity 77

our portfolio in the UAE and to achieve it we have set in motion a strong pipeline of development. We also have a strong interest in the booming Asian markets such as India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China”. With 5 new hotels due to open in 2015, HMH is in the midst of frantic activity. One of the company’s latest signings is Coral Al Madina Hotel in KSA that is an ultra-luxurious 5-star hotel superbly located just across the road overlooking the Holy Mosque. Featuring 400 plus rooms and suites, the hotel is spread over 10 floors and five basements. Included in its extensive facilities are three superb restaurants, lobby lounge, luggage room, shopping arcade, fully-equipped gym and spa, two state-of-the-art meeting rooms, business center and large parking space as well as helicopter landing site.

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Laurent revealed, “Soon we will be expanding our presence in Muscat, Khartoum, Port Sudan, Beirut and Madina, with five new hotels opening in quick succession that will boost the existing HMH portfolio by 25%. The first one will be Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments, followed by EWA Khartoum Hotel & Apartments, Ewa Port Sudan Hotel & Apartments, Coral Beirut Concorde Hotel and Coral Al Madina Hotel.” The scale of opportunity in the region for mid-market / budget hotels is unprecedented. Expanding airline network especially low-cost carriers, increased airport capacity, growing middle class, emerging source markets, addition of new tourism and family attractions and enhancement of infrastructure are all fuelling the demand for midmarket hotels.

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Laurent stressed, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all know there is a near saturation in the market when it comes to luxury hotels. The market does not need any more luxury hotels at this point. Over supply of rooms in this segment is putting a tremendous pressure on rates that in turn is affecting ROI. However, the same is not the case with mid-market hotels. Given the demand, investors can expect double digit ROI (10 to 12 per cent every year) with the right product and the right location.Therefore, every single operator is looking at how they can attract the future market meaning the market of tomorrow i.e. the middle class. This is why at HMH we have three brands out of five targeting middle class because the middle class that today represents 2.5 billion will by 2025 represent 5 billion around the world. ECOS Hotels is a 'no frills' B & B brand that ties together a unique economical and ecological concept. It is a smart choice for investors offering strong investment opportunity because of lower construction and operating costs and quick and high return on investmentâ&#x20AC;?. For more information about HMH visit www.hmhhotelgroup.com 80 Curiosity May - June 2015

Operating since 2003 15 CITIES 7 COUNTRIES 20 HOTELS 5 BRANDS

BY 2020 OUR AIM IS TO Have a hotel in every GCC country Double our portfolio in the UAE Expand presence in existing destinations Grow our mid-market and budget segment by 30% Open in new destinations such as India, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Egypt and other parts of Africa Multiply by three our inventory of keys by 2020

Our Brand Portfolio in April 2015

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Development is a key focus for HMH that has got some very exciting projects under consideration that are at various stages of negotiation. The group has some superb openings in 2015.

Opening Soon Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments Coral Al Madina Hotel Coral Beirut Concorde Hotel Ewa Port Sudan Hotel & Apartments Ewa Khartoum Hotel & Apartments

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tech talk

Gurpreet Jajj COO

Global Technology Leaders Delivering

SMART HOSPITALITY SOLUTIONS

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Amar Judge Director, Business Development May - June 2015 Curiosity 85

For more than a decade ODS2 has been delivering innovative turnkey technology solutions to leading organizations across 40 countries and growing. Curiosity Middle East talks to the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s COO Gurpreet Jajj and Director, Business Development Amar Judge to find out how technology is enhancing business performance in the region with intelligent software, especially in the field of hospitality.

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The region may have been slow in embracing technology but moving forward IT spending in the Middle East is projected to reach $243 billion by 2018, which will represent 5.6 per cent of worldwide IT spend according to a forecast by Gartner Inc. and the strongest growth is expected in enterprise software. The three-time recipient of Deloitte Fast 500, ODS2, is eyeing this exponential market and has have been quick to spot the opportunity. ODS2 is a leading global technology provider specialized in building customized business software. Spearheading its expansion in the region are COO Gurpreet Jajj and Director, Business Development Amar Judge. Tell us briefly about your organization? Innovation is our strength and code runs in our blood. We are a full-service premium technology firm specialized in building cutting- edge web and mobile software applications. Our business intelligence software is designed to help companies be more efficient, spot areas for cost savings and identify new business opportunities. Having teams in four regions of the world gives us a unique blend of skills. Working together our people offer different perspectives and expertise coming from different backgrounds provides an

atmosphere for innovation. How long has ODS2 been a player on the IT front? The IT firm was founded in The Netherlands in 1999, hence the orange color of the logo. Today ODS2’s growth has lead to its global presence with offices in The Netherlands, Canada, and USA with headquarters in UAE. Client satisfaction has popularized ODS2 solutions within their respective industries fostering an organic growth. 15 years since inception of ODS2, how has your client portfolio evolved? For over a decade we have been delivering software solutions worldwide from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. The world's best and brightest companies depend on ODS2 to unlock the insights of employees, customers and partners. Amongst a diverse set of industries the growing number of companies benefitting include Vodafone, Jumeirah, KPN, Safe Hotels, HBO, Logitech, Nuon, Microsoft, Samsung to name a few. What has been the formula for your success? Our client’s success is the ultimate catalyst for our growth. It is imperative that we understand our client’s business needs and processes to build prosperous long-term partnerships. Our objective is to provide software that is

affordable, flexible, web-centric and easy-to-use that can be accessed from anywhere in real-time— including on mobile devices—that mimics the services they use in their daily lives. What type of innovative software solutions do you offer for the hospitality sector? We offer an array of intelligent hospitality solutions for every aspect of the hotel business that are designed to boost efficiency, performance and profits. Amongst the list are loyalty programmes, HR & training programmes, risk management & auditing, asset & property management, customer satisfaction surveys or security & incident management; moreover, we also customize solutions to meet your organizational needs. Advances in technology are rapidly transforming the hospitality industry, how can the hospitality sector benefit from your solutions? ODS2 software allows hoteliers to organize and manage all their processes from one central system. For example, HR, training, HSE audits, incident reporting, sustainability, risk management can all be managed from one system.

State-of-the-art security and a hierarchy based permission system allow different levels of user access. Intuitive dashboard design provides a 360 degree insight into business operations in real-time. Advanced KPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and various forms of reporting convert collected data into meaningful information and allow you to follow trends and make informed decisions as the processes unfold. Companies are able to make the most of their resources and turn mountains of data into opportunity.

To boost your business performance contact us today as we would be more than happy to provide you with a complimentary consultation.

Amar Judge

Director, Business Development +971 52 624 3820 amar@ods2.com www.ods2.com 88 Curiosity May - June 2015

ODS2 cloud based solutions are fully capable of integrating with your existing IT ecosystem and benefit hoteliers by greatly reducing capital expenditures and IT related costs. From simple content-based metrics to sophisticated analysis, our software provides a more complete view on customer & competitors experience and opportunities therein, and helps executives plan for the future. How is mobile technology changing the business landscape? A major change for businesses has been the mobile technology. In a world with more mobile devices than people,

innovation in portable technology is opening new avenues of opportunity and providing a competitive edge. Mobile technologies have completely changed the way businesses operate today allowing executives to be productive anywhere, anytime in real time. Businesses want mobility. The world has gone mobile and if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t then we need to talk. How would Dubai Expo 2020 impact the technology sector? The Middle East region has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade, with Dubai leading the charge in economic development and diversification. Growth in the IT market has gone hand-in-hand with this diverse industrial expansion making Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology sector as one of the fastest paced globally. Therefore,

Expo 2020 presents us with a unique opportunity to be part of the upcoming innovations. The core aim of Dubai Expo 2020 is to foster innovation with an eye on the future. According to estimates, AED 25 billion investment is being channeled into infrastructure and growth projects across Dubai over the next five years that will boost technological developments and innovation. Our goal is to be a viable partner for international firms looking to grow in the UAE and the broader MENA region. We are looking to capitalize on large IT investments by verticals such as tourism and hospitality, telecom, retail, FMCG, consumer goods, media and services, banking and securities, government, manufacturing and natural resources.

what’s on?

There is always something exciting happening in town. Here’s a pick of the season’s best for fun and culture vultures 90 Curiosity May - June 2015

The Dubai International Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority hosts the 8th edition of the Dubai International Exhibition of Calligraphy. Get to see some of the most beautiful works of art in calligraphy, attend workshops and more. When:Tuesday, 14th April - Friday, 15th May 2015 Where:Wafi Mall Timings:10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Ladies In Paint Art Exhibition Susan Brooker, an artist inspired by graffiti, people and vibrant colours will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary portrait paintings of beautiful and iconic women. The exhibition, called Ladies in Paint, will be at the Z Gallery, situated in Four Points by Sheraton on Sheikh Zayed Road. In this series of paintings she has depicted femininity by using thick, vibrant oils and just a palette knife. The aim of Susanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paintings is to make a visual impact by capturing a portrait in a unique way that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t blend into the surroundings. When: Wednesday, 15th April - Monday,15th June 2015 Where: Z Gallery, Four Points by Sheraton, Sheikh Zayed Road

Blended 2015 Blended introduces British rockers Kasabian and singer Jessie Ware with the evening coming to a mellow close by RnB superstar, Craig David, who is no new-comer to Dubai. The second night begins with a bang with Kool and the Gang as they belt out classic mega hits. They will be joined later by one of the smoothest singers in the business, Robin Thicke and Blended will then close with brand new artists Nico and Vinz ending the show. When: Thursday, 30th April - Friday, 1st May 2015 Where: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre Time: 6:00 PM

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THE WAILERS LIVE AT THE IRISH VILLAGE The Wailers are one of the music industry’s finest and greatest bands. Having spent over 300 non-consecutive weeks on the billboard charts, this band that was formed in 1969 have some of the biggest hits under their belts and they are now coming to Dubai. Performing the entire list of songs from their latest album “Legend” which includes all-time classics such as “No Woman No Cry” and “Buffalo Soldier”, The Wailers are ready to jam at the Irish village for one night only. When: Thursday, 21st May 2015 Where: The Irish Village Time: 7:00 PM

Malek Jandali UAE Tour

Arabian Travel Market 2015 ATM is the most popular annual travel and tourism event in the region. Designed to unlock the business potential within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals, ATM has been held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre. When: Monday, 4th - Thursday, 7th May 2015 Where: Dubai World Trade Centre Duration: 3 days

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Malek Jandali, a pianist and composer who has gained worldwide acclaim and recognition will be coming to Dubai this May. The Malek Jandali Trio Concert, as it is named will consist of the man homself along with Laura Metcalf on cello and Abdulrahim Alsaid on the oud. The performance is expected to blend eastern and western traditional music to create a beautiful new fusion. When: Saturday, 16th - Sunday, 17th May 2015 Timings: 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM Where: Madinat Theatre, Madinat Jumeirah

DUBAI DUTY FREE DARTS MASTERS 2015 The Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters is an annual event on the Dubai sports circuit and one of the biggest of its kind in the region. The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top eight darts players gather in the city to compete against one another and win the coveted first place title. The event, which is sponsored by Dubai Duty Free will take place at the Irish Village as fans of the sport can witness their darts heroes vie for top places in the tournaments. Players include Taylor, Van Gerwen, Lewis, Van Barneveld, Bunting, Wrigt, Anderson and Wade. When: Thursday, 28th - Friday, 29th May 2015 Where: The Irish Village

Dubai Desert Road Run (June 2015) Summer Scorcher The Dubai Desert Road Run is a sport event that allows you to follow your progress throughout the year and socialize with fellow runners. The race takes place several times during the year, so that runners can keep track of the progress. It includes a 10km race for adults and those above 14 years old, a 3km junior race, ages 6 to 18, and a 3km fun run, which is untimed. This time around, there will be a 10k race and a 3k fun run When: Saturday, 6th June 2015 Where: The Sevens Stadium Time: 6:00 AM

Ramadan in UAE 2015 TThe holy month of Ramadan is one of the most important and reflective times in the Islamic calendar. In Dubai, the period is marked by a host of Ramadan-related activities with both private and public organisations hosting events for families and friends throughout the month. Residents of different nationalities come together to share the spirit of Ramadan and Emirati hospitality and traditions including Iftars (the first meal to break oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fast), the Holy Quran recital competition, Ramadan Night Market and the Ramadan Forum. When:Friday, 19th June - Friday, 17th July 2015 Duration: 29 days

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dine out

The search for

authentic ARABIC FOOD ends here

Unlocking the secrets of the finest Arabic Restaurants in the UAE

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Al Hadheerah Category: Middle Eastern Mix Opening Hours - Dinner: 7.00 Pm – 11.30 Pm Reservations: +971 4 809 6194 Location: Dubai, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort And Spa , Al Qudra Road , Opposite Endurance City

Al Nokhada Category : Authentic Arabian and Khaleeje Opening Hours 18:00 - Midnight (Mon - Sat) Reservations: +971 9 244 9700 Location: Radisson Blu Resort Fujairah, Dibba, Fujairah

AL JAZEERA Category : Lebanese Opening Hours - 7:00 pm - 1:00 am Reservations: +971 7 244 6666 Location: Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort, Vienna St. Al Jazirah Al Hamra

Al Fanar Restaurant & Café Category : Emirati Opening Hours - 8:30am - 11:30pm Reservations: +971 4 232 9966 Location: Canal Walk(Dubai Festival City Mall) , Town centre ( Jumeirah), Ritz Carlton(Abu Dhabi) May - June 2015 Curiosity 95

ATAYEB

MAZINA

Category : Moroccan, Tunisian, Lebanese and Syrian Opening Hours - 7:00 pm -1:00 am Reservations: +971 2 656 0600

Category: Arabic (All Cuisines)

Location: Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, Yas Island

Opening Hours: Breakfast: 6:30am to 10:30am and Dinner: 7pm to 11pm. Weekdays Business Lunch: Noon to 3pm Weekedays: 12pm to 3pm Weekends: Brunch: Friday and Saturday from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm Reservations: +971 4 888 3444 Location: Lobby level, The Address Dubai Marina

Ewaan Category: ARABIC (all cuisines) Opening Hours: Weekedays: 6am to midnight Weekends: Brunch - Friday from 1pm to 4pm Reservations: +971 4 428 7888 Location: Ground Level, The Palace Downtown Dubai

MEZLAI Category: Emirati Opening Hours:13:00hrs – 22:30hrs Reservations: +971 2 690 7999 Location: Emirates Palace Hotel, Abu Dhabi

Khan Murjan Restaurant Category : Local cuisine, Turkish, Iranian, Egyptian and Moroccan Opening Hours - 10: 00 AM – Midnight Weekends: 10:00 AM – 1:00AM Reservations: +971 4 327 9795 Location: Khan Murjan Souk, Wafi Mall, Sheikh Rashid Road Dubai UAE

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first bite

Bertin Bistro and Restaurant Serving Traditional French and Andalusian Flavours Bertin Bistro is a modern restaurant, bistro and bakery conveniently located on Al Manara Street off Sheikh Zayed Road. Inspired by the conflicting passions and the rich history of three food revolutionaries, this globally unique dining concept perfects and explores traditional French and Andalusian food in a mesmerizing combination. Dining at Bertin Bistro promises not only an incomparable food experience, but also a taste of a life long dream of three very different men, the shared vision of opening a restaurant that epitomises the love of food. Mutual passion for dynamic and culturally diverse

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cuisine was the catalyst that brought together the partners of Bertin Bistro who have created this unique restaurant. During their first tumultuous forays into their dream business, the three headstrong individuals would argue so voraciously about their ideas that strangers would turn and stare. It was the reactions of those around them and their burning ambition that cemented the concept that they knew would make headlines. To create a unique concept, the combating friends developed a story based on their lives and passions, a story of love, loss and retribution. The story is beautifully engraved on the wall of the Bistro and artfully woven into the diverse menu. To express the love of the food from three culinary

backgrounds, Bertin Bistro offers its diners two floors of surprising dishes. Open from 8 am to 10:30 pm daily, the ground floor offers a wide selection of hot and cold beverages to complement breakfast, lunch or dinner. It is decorated in traditional French Bistro elegance, offering equally traditional dishes, but with a surprising twist. Visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome, attentive service and lifestyle dining experience that will keep them coming back for more. With such passion, commitment and comfort, Bertin Bistro and Restaurant is set to become the ultimate chilled out destination, with a twist.

EATALY, the Authentic Italian Fine Food Emporium and Restaurant in Dubai Eataly, the Italian market-and-restaurant chain created by Oscar Farinetti, has opened its first ME franchise in Duba. The highly acclaimed chain started out back in 2007 in an old vermouth warehouse in Turin, and has expanded globally ever since with outlets across Italy, Japan and USA. Its goal is to make authentic Italian food available to everyone, at affordable prices, in an informal environment where people can eat, shop, and learn. "We're in love with food" and "Food unites us all" are just two of the key philosophies of Eataly's Manifesto. The vibrant Dubai location replicates the successful Eataly format, respecting Koranic precepts without compromising the magic of Italian food. The Cafe area at the entrance includes pastries, Venchi chocolate (no butter and cream added!), Gelato, Nutella Bar and Illy Caffè Bar. All the pastries, from Tiramisù to croissants, are made in house by our Italian pastry chef . The Market features a wide range of authentic products, from Sardinian tomato sauces and Napoli Gragnano pasta to regional olive oils and five gold medal balsamic vinegar. Our range of Italian cheese and charcuterie also includes mozzarella made fresh daily in our on-site lab. The Restaurants include real Italian pizza and pasta, roast and grilled meat and fish, and a selection of fresh salads and vegetable dishes, all prepared in house by our team of chefs. Many of the items used in our recipes are available to purchase in the market, ”We sell what we cook and we cook what we sell”. Staying true to its roots, Eataly marks yet another milestone to treat foodies in the UAE to the true taste of Italy!

first bite

“We want diners to experience the best of Lebanese cuisine, and for this reason our team is led by experts in their craft,” said Ivor Prestwood, General Manager of InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Byblos Sur Mer, translated to English as ‘Byblos by the Seaside’, will delight visitors with its charming atmosphere and stylish decor reminiscent of traditional Phoenician citadels. Adding to the heart-warming ambiance, guests will also taste fresh baking from the onsite Lebanese bread baker. “At InterContinental Abu Dhabi we are constantly bringing together the elegance and sophistication of the modern world with world-class traditional flavours,” said Ivor Prestwood, General Manager of InterContinental Abu Dhabi. “That is what Byblos Sur Mer is all about.”

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Re-defines the Lebanese Dining Experience at Byblos Sur Mer

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Byblos Sur Mer at InterContinental Abu Dhabi pairs modern luxury with Lebanese culinary tradition InterContinental Abu Dhabi’s latest gastronomic experience: Byblos Sur Mer has been announced. In a marriage of tradition and modernity, Byblos Sur Mer celebrates the best of Lebanese cuisine in a chic and stylish waterfront setting. Located in the hotel’s private marina, Byblos Sur Mer will transport guests to the ancient capital of the Phoenician coast, with a taste of the finest Lebanese delicacies. Mastered by specialised chefs, the menu at Byblos Sur Mer promises an exquisite selection of flavours with mezzeh grills, delectable marinades and exquisite Lebanese sweets. Currently open for sundowners and dinner, the restaurant will also open for both breakfast and lunch in the coming months.

The 300 seat restaurant is set over two floors. The ground floor and terrace will be the exclusive dining areas, where guests will be transported to the coast of Byblos and able to enjoy the magnificent seaside view. The second floor will host Byblos Sur Mer’s lounge bar where singers and performers will entertain guests throughout the evening. “Byblos Sur Mer is one of the most exciting new offerings in Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene.” Prestwood concluded. InterContinental Abu Dhabi is an iconic landmark in the heart of the UAE’s capital, located just a short drive away from the bustling downtown, the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition Centre and Abu Dhabi International Airport. The hotel includes 390 rooms and suites as well as a wide selection of F&B outlets where guests can relax, rejuvenate and refuel. Visit www.ihg.com www.ihgrewardsclub.com

D&A at JBH Introduces Menu of Classic British Breakfast Choices D&A, the fully refurbished gastropub in Jumeirah Beach Hotel, is now open for breakfast offering a menu of traditional British dishes. Every Saturday from 10am-4pm, D&A’s à la carte menu offers traditional dishes to give customers a true British breakfast. Choose from The Classic Full English with Dingley Dell products, black pudding, baked beans, tomato, mushrooms, sautéed potatoes, a choice of eggs and white, brown or fried bread; breakfast rolls with HP sauce and the old school favourite ‘Eggy Bread’ with Dingley Dell treaclecured products and maple syrup. Other options include ‘Severn & Wye’ Scottish smoked salmon, scrambled eggs and toast and eggs Florentine, poached eggs on a toasted English muffin with Hollandaise and spinach.

“We have worked very hard with our suppliers to bring the best produce over for our new breakfast menu. This is an authentic British breakfast and we are very proud of the menu which will give customers a true taste of Britain’s best meal.” On the ground floor on Jumeirah Beach Hotel, D&A goes from strength to strength. Following an extensive refurbishment at the beginning of 2014, the venue has won numerous awards since it reopened. With floor to ceiling windows, a breezy al fresco terrace, looking out onto the Burj Al Arab

Jumeirah, and industrial design features mixed with muted tones and bare wood, D&A is fast establishing a reputation as the best British option in the city. For restaurant bookings, contact restaurant reservations at +971 4 366 5866

Lesser known classics, close to any Brit’s heart, include the fried potato and vegetable dish Bubble and Squeak - with a fried egg and HP sauce and Omelette ‘Arnold Bennett’. Omelette ‘Arnold Bennett’ was conceived at London’s The Savoy Hotel - the writer was famously so delighted with the egg, smoked haddock and parmesan dish that the hotel’s chefs created for him, that he insisted on it wherever he travelled. Healthy choices of muesli with home-dried fruits, Scottish porridge and grapefruit with brown sugar are also available, as are extra sides of black pudding, toast with Tiptree marmalade and more. D&A’s Chef de Cuisine, Christopher Driver, says:

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first bite

Coral Al Khobar Hotel’s Al Nafoora Restaurant Treats Guests to Meaty Feasts The Coral Al Khobar Hotel’s popular Al Nafoora Restaurant has launched The Butcher’s Cut – A meaty evening every Tuesday inviting food lovers to relish on succulent kebabs, mixed grill, BBQ, besides enjoying the best cuts of meat prepared with the finest ingredients. The dedicated evening with an emphasis on meat and more meat brings your favourite items in abundance whether cooked in a pot or on the grill. The restaurant’s impressive setting is filled with meaty aromas. As soon as you step in, exotic spices and aromatic flavours of tender meat will tempt you. In addition to different kinds of grilled meat on offer are a variety of salads and spreads and a choice of side dishes. Michel H. Mandrea, General Manager, Coral

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Al Khobar Hotel, said that the Meaty Evening promises to be an ultimate experience for meat lovers, something that cannot be missed. He said, “We have enriched the menu and enhanced the format to suit the occasion. It is an opportunity to sample something that you haven’t tried before. While the preliminaries can be picked from the soup and salad buffet, you will have to select your favourite steak cut and let the chef cook it to your liking. Choose from an assortment of sauces, potatoes and vegetables to accompany the meat. This astonishing gastronomic journey will remain incomplete unless you indulge yourself with the dessert buffet. Experience this and much more just for SR145 per person every Tuesday from 7pm to 11pm.

Michel H. Mandrea General Manager Coral Al Khobar Hotel

Awesome May Flavours at the Grand Millennium Dubai Hotel Dining at the Grand Millennium Dubai is a true delight with the hotel offering a superb choice of award-winning restaurants and bars. And this May, it has got some absolutely irresistible promotions that are guaranteed to tickle your taste buds. Here's what's on offer all through May... Evening Belgian Brunch At Belgian Beer Cafe Price: AED 345 per person Dine on Friday Brunch and get 20% off your total bill on Saturday Brunch (applicable up to 4 pax/table). Offer valid on all Weekends of May from 4pm to 8pm. Friday Brunch receipt must be presented to get the discount.

M3 Cocktails At Crystal Bar Price: AED 55.00/cocktail Buy one Margarita, Martini or Mojito and get the second one at half the price along with a complimentary canapé platter. Offer valid from 1-31 May 2015 from 6pm – 1am. Burger and Beer At Juzz Bar Price: AED 110 Order a burger and your choice of beer from the selected beers. Offer valid from 1-31 May 2015 from 10am to 7pm. Thursday Steaks and Grapes At The Atrium Price: AED 185 – Steak and a glass of brew or grape AED 275 – Steak and a bottle of grape Thursday Steak Night with selected wines. Every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm For more reservation or more information please visit: www.grandmillenniumdubai.com

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first bite ‘Right Bite NOW’, a concept that focuses on good food fast. It was developed to allow individuals to sample Right Bite meals prior to signing up to their personalized programs, and for those who do not want to commit to a personalized program to allow them a chance to eat healthy. Right Bite NOW will cater to takeaway orders and deliveries, at the same time offer a small dine-in space, thus making healthy food choices more accessible to consumers.

Right Bite opens First Shop in Dubai Known for pioneering customised healthy meal deliveries in the UAE, Right Bite has announced the recent opening of its first outlet. Located in Jumeirah Lake Towers, the shop is aptly named

Nathalie Haddad, Founder and Managing Director, The Right Bite Nutrition and Catering Services L.L.C., said “We are excited about this new development for Right Bite. Opening Right Bite NOW gives us the opportunity to reach out to more people and allow them to experience our brand. One thing we are very pleased about is that, with the shop, we are reinforcing our efforts to re-shape people’s diet and their relationship with food, helping them to change their eating habits by making fresh, healthy and convenient meals available close by. Right Bite NOW is their access to better and healthier choices.” Delivery areas covered by Right Bite NOW are vicinities around Jumeirah Lake Towers, such as Greens, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Knowledge Village, Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Triangle, Emirates Hills, Meadows, Tecom and Barsha. If you choose to enjoy your meal in the shop, Right Bite NOW offers a quiet, unassuming space that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Italian Regional Promotion at Prego’s, Media Rotana Prego's at Media Rotana offers a true authentic dining experience by taking you around Italy’s cities and presenting a unique delicacy from each city combined with popular Italian ingredients in this month’s Italian Regional Promotion. For starters Prego’s takes you to the regions of Liguria and Toscana offering a delicious seafood platter and crispy duck breast on artichokes and asparagus salad. After that you can enjoy an appetizing cream of potatoes with sautéed porcini mushroom soup from the Piemonte region. For the main courses chef Salvatore Barcellona will present some delectable dishes from Campania, Calabria and Sardegna including Stuffed chicken with sundry tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, 104 Curiosity May - June 2015

Right Bite NOW foods are prepared by the same team as Right Bite and feature some new options, as well as a few of the long-time favorites of their subscribers. Included in the shop’s extensive menu are appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, hot meals and desserts. They also have a daily dish that can be ordered as a single portion or to share for a minimum of four people, examples of which are moghrabieh and Oriental rice with chicken.

Grilled octopus on sautéed Tropea red onion and Pan Roasted fresh herbs marinated lamb loin. It wouldn’t be complete without some pasta! Savor tasty homemade pumpkin Cappellacci and Orecchiette pasta form the regions of Lombardia and Puglia. Discover more about Italy with our Regional special menu at Prego's. This contemporary Italian Restaurant serves only the finest Italian cuisine within a cosy ambience so be sure to experience an authentic Italian dining experience. For more information call +971 (4) 4350201, or email us on fb.media@rotana.com

Right Bite NOW meals also have all the nutrition information on them (calories, protein, fat, carbohydrate), which is attuned with the brand’s commitment to transparency. “This is a step further to empower our customers and teach them about smart food choices,” Nathalie explained.

Al Fanar Restaurant and Café To Open its Largest Outlet in Al Ain Al Fanar Restaurant and Café, the UAE’s first and only restaurant offering traditional Emirati cuisine in a themed rustic setting, is all set to extend its hospitality to food lovers in the Western region by opening its new branch in Al Ain. Although the restaurant is relatively new in the country, it has become a strong brand with residents and visitors alike, winning accolades for authentic Emirati cuisine. Scheduled to be open in May 2015, the outlet is being developed as an ideal corporate and banquet venue near Souk Al Zafarana at Al Jimi. Mr Hashem Al Marzouqi, Principal, Al Fanar Restaurant and Café, said that the new stand alone outlet in Al Ain will be the largest restaurant in Al

Ain and the largest of Al Fanar so far with capacity to accommodate 600 people. It will be a destination by itself, with a combined indoor and outdoor capacity of 900 people, He said, “We decided to start a branch here because Al Ain’s reputation as an outdoor activity-based tourist destination continues to grow, attracting an increasing number of local and international visitors. It suits us as our objective is to enable the world to experience a small part of what our heritage has to offer and gain an insight into the uniqueness of our culture.” According to Mr Marzouqi, "The unique selling point of Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe is that it is

Hashem Al Marzouqi Principal - Al Fanar Restaurant and Café the only authentic Emirati restaurant chain serving the finest traditional Emirati cuisine in an Emirati heritage setting. Quality and consistency of food across all outlets is ensured. The restaurant boasts an exquisite menu including many signature historic dishes such as ‘Aysh Mohammar ma Samak Magli’, ‘Beryani Maleh’ and ‘Asidat Al Tamor’ that are rarely cooked in Emirati homes today. We promise to bring alive the secrets from ancient Emirati kitchens only because we wish our diners to leave as loyal fans after they have experience our food.” May - June 2015 Curiosity 105

in conversation

Singapore Tourism Board to Deepen Engagements with Locals and Expats

What are the strategies and plans to grow market in UAE and Middle East? The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is diversifying and expanding resources beyond its key traditional source markets of Southeast Asia, China, India and Australia and recognizes the potential in Middle East and Africa. The STB office in Dubai has plans to deepen our engagements with the local families and expat markets in 2015 and 2016 to increase the mindshare of Singapore as an attractive leisure destination.

STB's New Area Director Mohamed Firhan Abdul Salam speaks exclusively with Curiosity Middle East and shares his plans to promote Singapore in the region

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Leisure campaigns complemented by digital and social media activities will be launched in due course. There are also plans to engage the trade more consistently to familiarize and deepen their knowledge about Singapore and its wide ranging products for all segments of the leisure and business travel market. What are the major challenges in front of you and how do you plan to deal with them/ overcome them? The travel business is getting very competitive and the space for destination marketing is also saturated. How do we ensure our messages and promotions cut through the clutter? The challenge is to find channels and ways to engage consumers meaningfully and convince them of a memorable and authentic Singapore experience. The value proposition has got to clear and strong. We have to identify the right platforms and partners to be able to do this well because as a destination, Singapore has so much to offer in a clean and safe environment.

Why do you feel Middle East is a significant market for Singapore ? We have seen encouraging growth of visitors from the Middle East to Singapore over the years. United Arab Emirates visitor arrivals tops at 75,700 in 2014, representing a 4% year-on-year growth. Saudi Arabia is our second largest source market from the Middle East and in 2014, we welcomed 25,750 visitors from the Kingdom. This represents an increase of 23% year-on-year. Qatar is also a key arrival source market from the region, registering a 3.8% year-on-year growth with visitor arrivals into Singapore at 12,261 in 2014. Other Middle East markets that are doing well for us are Iran, Kuwait and Oman. STB recognizes the potential and with the increasing air capacities and links, we look forward to welcoming more quality visitors from this region. What kind of new offers you are about to introduce in this region? What new tourism attractions are coming up in Singapore ? Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique for UAE visitors? Singapore has grown in appeal as a stand-alone leisure destination while continuing to be a favourite stop-over destination for many visitors from the

region. This is in no small part due to new and constantly refreshed offerings such as Gardens by the Bay, River Safari, world-class events and a vibrant dining scene. With the many things happening in Singapore all the time, Lonely Planet has named Singapore as the top country destination to visit in 2015. Leisure travellers with an interest in art and cultural institutions can look forward to new attractions such as the famed private art museum Pinacothèque de Paris opening its first Asian outpost in Singapore in 2015 and the National Gallery Singapore. Visitors can also enjoy sporting and lifestyle events like the WTA Finals from 23 October to 1 November 2015 and the only Formula 1 night street race in the world from 18 to 20 September 2015. Please describe Singapore as a Shopper’s Paradise. The vibrant retail scene, with latest collection of major fashion labels and growing number of boutiques of local designers that are getting regional and international recognition affirms Singapore’s position as one of Asia’s premier shopping destination, which is a big draw for the Middle Eastern visitors. Besides the convenience of shopping along the famed Orchard Road, visitors can also explore hidden gems like Ann Siang Hill, Haji Lane and the ethnic precincts like Little India, Kampong Glam and Chinatown for a different shopping experience. The safe, clean and green city gives visitors a sense of security and comfort while on holiday and shopping in Singapore. Any serious shopper would know of the Great Singapore Sale which happens annually May to July where retailers slash prices and offer great discounts island-wide. The Great Singapore Sale season will literally make shoppers shop till t hey drop! How do you see the market growing in next 5 years on the tourism map? Singapore is celebrating its 50 years of independence in 2015 and it is well-positioned and ready for the future. Singapore will continue

to build on its fundamentals to ensure we are in a good position to take advantage of opportunities arising from the fast-changing local and global environments. At this point, there may not be many big infrastructural tourism developments in the horizon but we are working closely with our industry stakeholders to continually upgrade our “software” while rejuvenating existing products, services and experiences. Our Quality Tourism approach is gaining traction and will continue to guide STB’s strategies and investments in the respective markets. Please throw some light on food and entertainment attractions of Singapore? With a significant Muslim community, Singapore has no shortage of halal food outlets. Visitors from the Middle East can also take comfort in the wide range of Halal culinary offerings in Singapore, from affordable local cuisines at street hawkers to fine dining at the many celebrity restaurants that have popped up in the city. Singapore offers a perfect mix of attractions, entertainment and authentic experiences for the entire family, all concentrated and easily accessible to one another. We have a host of world-class attractions such as the iconic Marina Bay Sands, Universal Studios and Marine Life Park at the Resorts World Sentosa, Gardens by the Bay, River Safari, Night Safari and the annual Formula-1 Grand Prix which is the world’s first night street race, happening from 18-20 September 2015. The accessibility and ease of commuting within the country makes it extremely convenient for tourists to enjoy the many attractions within the island city. Please throw some light on the air connectivity and hotel room stock in Singapore. The connectivity to Singapore from this region is not an issue. As of February 2015, there are 53 weekly flights from United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi and Dubai) to Singapore with a total capacity of 18,577 weekly seats. For the same period, there are 9 weekly flights from Saudi Arabia to Singapore with a total capacity of 2,845 weekly seats. With a premier air hub status, visitors will continue to travel through Singapore and we hope they will take the opportunity to see and explore the city. We acknowledge the feedback from visitors and trade on the consistently high accommodation costs in Singapore. The hotel room rates in Singapore are determined by market forces but we hear the concerns and in 2014, we added about 57,172 rooms in Singapore across the various class ranges. This represents a 3.9% year-on-year increase in room stock. Some of the hotels that have opened in 2014 include the Sofitel So, Hotel Jen Orchardgateway, One Farrer Hotel and Spa and Holiday Inn Express Clarke Quay Singapore. The following hotels will be opening soon; The Patina, South Beach, Park Hotel Alexandra and Genting Hotel Jurong.

Mohamed Firhan Abdul Salam joined the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in 2009 and assumed the position of Area Director, Middle East and Africa, based in Dubai on 9 November 2014. Prior to his posting to Dubai, Mohamed Firhan was posted to STB Indonesia for 2.5 years where he was heavily involved in both marketing and business development work of the office. On the marketing front, he spearheaded key projects like the annual integrated leisure marketing campaigns and media partnerships. He was instrumental in developing the Investing for Growth in Indonesia’s Secondary Cities Plan which outlined STB’s engagement strategies for these emerging markets in the coming years. He was also the lead officer for cruise, education and sports tourism business developments efforts in-market. Before his overseas stint, he was in the BTMICE division where he was responsible for business development efforts to create, secure and anchor globally significant trade events in Singapore for selected industries. Mohamed Firhan graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences honors degree, majoring in Political Science from the National University of Singapore (NUS). Mohamed Firhan, enjoys travelling and is a newly certified diver with plans to see the (underwater) world.

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in conversation

What made you enter the Dubai property market scene? Danube has been associated with the construction industry for more than 22 years supplying the widest range of building materials. I always believed that apart from a very few developers, there was wide gap which can be filled by a responsible and committed developer. We were always associated with the industry and we knew the pulse of the business. So, I started the venture with a vision to deliver quality property at costeffective price with unmatched value. The timing was just right for us when we launched the division with our maiden project. The market had recovered from recession and it was placed better than ever before with strongest regulations. How has the response been to both ‘Dreamz’ and ‘Glitz’ by Danube? Both our project have received phenomenal response and great success. The industry stands witness to the success of our projects and although the properties are sold out we continue to receive fresh enquiries. I was particularly amazed with the response we received for our second venture Glitz by Danube, the project got sold out in just 2 hours. The popularity and success of the project can be measured from the fact that a large number of people at the launch were left disappointed, it got sold so quickly and it was strictly on first-cumfirst-serve basis. Property buyers have shown great confidence in Danube and they have been able to see the value in our projects. The price and payment plan we offer is also unmatched and makes our properties extremely affordable

Glitz and Dreamz As Rizwan Sajan, Chairman, Danube group enters into Property market in UAE, he takes out time to speak to Curiosity Middle East to share what attracted him to do so and how he has made things affordable for potential buyers dreaming to own a home here.

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What do prospective buyers need to know when purchasing these properties? The most important thing to look for is the location of the property; the location drives the future asset value. Then you must look for a duly registered developer with credible name and financial strength to deliver the project under any circumstances. Attention must also be given to the price at which you are buying the property and relate that with the overall design & features. What is the expected completion date for both the projects? Both the projects are under construction and progressing in line with the construction program we have put in place. We expect to complete Dreamz by 3rd Quarter of next year and Glitz is anticipated to complete by July-2017. We have brought on board leading contractors who are known for on time delivery and quality construction. What attracted you to the Dubai Sports Studio City? I believe Dubai Studio City is one of the most attractive communities on the Umm Suqeim Road. The city is expanding in this direction with some mega projects recently launched along this stretch. Above all TECOM Investments, the Master developer has done a phenomenal job in planning the community, it comes with ready infrastructure which adds tremendous value to your asset under construction.

Currently, where does your business focus lie, and why? While as a successful business we are planning new projects, we have remained focussed on construction and delivery of the existing projects that we have already launched. It is very important for every developer to achieve timely delivery of projects; this really becomes your report card as a developer. We are now launching our Glitz 3 project, which is an extension of our sold out Glitz 1 & 2 project. The project has a selection of 432units offering a mix of studios, one and two bedroom contemporary styled apartments. What are your thoughts on the outlook of the property market in Dubai for the next two to three years? I have always maintained that Dubai remains very affordable in comparison to most of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading cities. With the reinforced laws protecting the property buyers the market becomes that much more attractive for both end-users and investors alike. Dubai has created a reputation which is ranked right at the top in terms of international Real Estate investment and especially in the region. The entire credit must be given to the Government of Dubai, they continuously invested in the infrastructure even through the recession and developed a full proof system securing oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment. Backed by such support and platform from Government, not just next two or three years but I believe there will be a consistent appetite for good property in the long term. The developers need to explore new ideas, minimize cost and maximize value and if a good property is presented at the right price, it will be well received.

What do you believe is Danube Properties real competitive advantage in this market? We have the home advantage of building materials which accounts for a large volume of the cost towards construction of any property. This not only helps us reduce the cost but also recognise the material to be installed. Add to that our 22 years of experience in the industry which enables us to select the best contractor and also identify key locations for our projects. Our strategy of one project at a time helps us design and plan our projects efficiently and focus on delivery. What are your future plans? Are there any more properties in the pipeline? Are you planning to expand to any new markets? We have few projects on the drawing board with one of them planned for launch in April this year. We have planned steady and not steep growth for our business with a solid foundation. As mentioned, we have identified the pipeline of projects for this year and work is continuously on. We remain committed to deliver world class project at the most reasonable price with the most attractive payment plan. Our projects will demonstrate irresistible investment value and they will be hard to say no to. Anything else you would like to add? I sincerely thank all the investors who have shown great confidence in us over the years and we promise to meet their expectations! May - June 2015 Curiosity 109

art & soul

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Glamourous

GOWNS Oscar de la Renta Exhibit at Harvey Nichols - Dubai

Harvey Nichols – Dubai pays tribute to Oscar de la Renta and his career as a leading fashion icon with its ‘Glamorous Gowns Exhibit’ – in-store from 13th April, 2015 to 13th May, 2015. The first of its kind in Dubai, the exhibit will highlight memorable red carpet and runway gowns from previous Oscar de la Renta collections. The ‘Glamorous Gowns Exhibit’ will showcase the extraordinary talent and creativity of one of the world’s most celebrated designers. These spectacular red carpet and runway gowns, worn by models and celebrities throughout de la Renta’s career, illustrate his sense of style and love of beauty.

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art & soul

The Two Sides Of Fashion:

BUSINESS AND

Akif Mahmood

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Art

kif mahmood, the best collection gold award winning graduate of PIFD (Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design), started his career in November 2010 by showcasing his debut collection at the prestigious platform of PFDC (Pakistan Fashion Design Council) Fashion week. Akif 's work was much appreiated and his aesthetics gave a new blood in the fashion industry. Since then Akif is consistently working under his label 'Akif Mahmood' and comes up with his new collection every year at Pakistan Fashion Weeks in Pakistan and London. Label Akif Mahmood is now available in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and is also sold at multibrand stores in Dubai and London. Akif 's interesting fusion of east and west in his collections has given him clients from all over the globe specially Europe , USA and UAE. In 2013 Akif was one of the four young designers of Pakistan who were selected to present their work at the International Fashion Showcase London, organized by the British Council as part of LONDON FASHION WEEK. The event was

covered and attended by the Media and buyers from London Fashion Week. Akif was also nominated twice for the Lux style awards in the category of The Best Emerging talent in the years 2011 and 2012 , and also showed his collection at the prestigious platform of the Lux Style Awards. Apart from this, Akif has been doing styling projects for leading Pakistani textile mills and ready to wear brands. Akif 's signature style is his unique way of fusing contemporary fashion with traditional motifs and fabrics. he loves experimenting with different types of embroideries and using them in a playful manner. " I believe in Pakistan we have so many cultures and traditions to take inspiration from. Being an artist I am always into arts, history and culture and that's what I try to depict in my collections. It's always a fusion of design and contemporary cuts so that the end product is fashionable, yet wearable."

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Akif 's Design philosophy is a fusion of his traditions and contemporary fashion. Being a Pakistani, Akif has always taken inspirations from Pakistan, its rich cultures and traditions and has always celebrated its vast history through his designs. Akif believes that Pakistan is so rich in its cultures that there are so many of them that are yet to be explored and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what he wants to show through his work and present them in front of the world, so that he can also show the beautiful and creative side of Pakistan. Every Year Akif comes up with his latest collection at the PFDC (PAKISTAN FASHION DESIGN COUNCIL) SUNSILK FASHION WEEK and his collections are much appreciated locally and internationally by the press and audiences. Akif is known for his use of intricate embroideries and techniques of embroideries that are truly Pakistani. The typical colors and the motifs that are used, have their roots in the different regions of the country.

akifmahmood2

m.facebook.com/akif.mahmood.pk

art & soul

Colours of Life Contemporary artist Kamen Bonev is inspired by life around him to create fascinating figurative paintings using classical techniques

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oted International Artist Kamen Bonev has been making waves in the local and global art circles. Born in Varna Bulgaria in 1978, Kamen studied art at College of Art and Design “Veselin Stoinanov” – Ruse, Bulgaria before graduating from University of the Fine Arts in Veliko Turnovo. Over the years he has participated in a number of national and international exhibitions and has won numerous recognitions and awards for his outstanding works including top award from ‘Veliko Turnovo by the Patron Dr Rumen Rashev. In 2013, he became the recipient of the first prize of the fine arts festival in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, held under the patronage of the Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation. Since 2002, Kamen has been associated with the International Association of Art (IAA) - UNESCO and is also a member of the Union of Bulgarian Artists. His artwork has been exhibited in Art Monaco, Louvre - Paris, Rome, Berlin, USA, UK, UAE, Bulgaria. He recently participated in World Art Dubai 2015 and Artexpo New York (23-26 April, 2015) and is currently the exhibition director of Gallery 76 in Dubai. Kamen’s works are not only different but very intense. Art is natural to Kamen who says, “Art has always been a part of me. I am constantly challenging myself to create something unique. The success of any composition depends on its visual balance, contrast and colour interaction. My new collection is mysterious and full of surprises”.

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editor's pick

Hesham Malik Master of Controlled Splashing and Falling Flakes Style

A self-taught artist who has been painting since the age of 7, born in Bahrain, studied in Canada, likes to travel for his art, and is someone who loves to do his bit in his own very unique way for society... particularly for the special needs Children. Here are the Excerpts from a recent interview at Rashid Paediatrics Centre in Dubai with Internationally acclaimed Painter Hesham Malik By Amit Kakkar Describe yourself as a person and as a painter. As a person, I am really outdated. I like to spend most of my time either trying to indulge in some research of books or my work. I don’t socialize a lot and just remain to myself. I enjoy photography and spend a lot of time trying to go through what I have already worked on and improve on that. I like to meet old friends, family so you can say ‘quite outdated’ (smiles). As a Painter, I just paint all the time .It doesn’t come all that naturally though as I need to do a lot of research and need to meet a lot of people. For me, it’s a two-way thing and there is a process involved before I start my new artwork. You have been painting since 7 years of age – and that’s too young an age to decide that you want be a painter when you grow up ….so when was it that you actually made up your mind about what you wanted to be? I think everyone was painting at the age of 7. Since an early age I had a lot of encouragement from family and especially my art teachers. They kept saying that I am going to be an artist (repeats) so that kept playing in my mind all the 118 Curiosity May - June 2015

time but professionally I would say that it was during college days when I started doing activities at Institutions and started to meet other artists, started visiting art galleries and attending art shows . So it was not decided at that age though but was like a gradual thing that led to being an artist. We have seen you painting with your fingers and some unusual tools which isn’t common with artists so could you please elaborate on how you are successful in creating your identity as a painter with the use of things as different as a rose stem. There was a time when I could not afford the things I needed such as a paint brush or paints so I used to paint with my fingers so that became a habit. As far as using unusual tools is concerned, just as the market moves and things change, I think people get bored very easily so you need to move with the market. Viewers always inform you when they are used to a certain thing and if they are heading towards an art exhibition they already know how your paintings are going to be but I don’t like to be so predictable. Therefore, I

try to use different things, it may not be a success though even if I use rose stem or any other stuff but I do it and for me it’s like experimenting. I tell all young painters to keep experimenting and out of ten, two of the experiments may work and we need to educate ourselves this way too. It’s a process and happens only through experience. As an artist I feel the need to keep trying with different materials to get the end product. Every painter carries a signature style. What is unique about your signature style? What is it that Hesham is wanting to convey through his form of art? My signature style is a combination of abstract and figurative but to get to your unique style, it just doesn’t come as you start painting. Rather it comes through experience because there are many artists who ask how to create their unique style and I keep telling them it will only come through experience and not just in one day. You paint, you make mistakes, then you change your painting style and from those mistakes, I learnt a lot and built my own unique style and I kept it different as sometimes I use rose stem, stone,

sand or a piece of cloth to make a painting. One may be able to see the complete figure but if you focus then it’s quite visible within my work. Through my unique style, I make my audience work a bit , involve them to focus on my paintings and find the hidden message. Let’s talk about “Innovations in Paintings” I believe in innovation in paintings. Best thing is that I am a very harsh critic and that helps me. In early years when someone would criticize my work, I would get depressed but as the time passed by I realized it helps me as I try to work harder in changing things as the artwork is not for me but it’s for YOU and everyone else. So the more I get help from viewers, the more I can produce something for everyone and therefore I keep innovating and creating new things all the time. Tell about your ‘Controlled Splashing Act’ and the ‘Falling Flakes Style’ . Controlled Splashing was something I used to do where I splash randomly and I thought it would be interesting if I could make some points on

the canvas and control the paint in such a way that if I splash it, it covers those areas which will ultimately turn into a nice portrait. But it requires some serious practice – may be years to master such a thing. I started to splash from all angles to make my paintings and people started to show interest in this act. The whole act finishes within seconds. I can make Mother Teresa’s portrait in just 3-4 splashes. This type of an act is meant only for live shows. For the falling flakes style, I would say I love to paint outdoor a lot and so once weather was not good and a lot of leaves were coming towards the canvas from a distance and from height. It appeared to me like some falling flakes and I started to use those flakes in different colors and created another signature style with the use of some silver flakes. Such things can only happen in a natural way on outdoor locations and I developed this style from mother nature. Let’s talk to you about the charity aspect – you come from a business family and you are contributing to society using your expertise in art .

When you are at a level and you are known and your paintings have some sort of value, it is very important that you can help the society in your own way but it has to come from within your heart. In Canada, I used to volunteer a lot and used to see a different side of life. It’s a different reality. Let it be blind kids or old age homes so a person like me feels so strongly from inside towards these people who are emotional and do not need anything from you but they have a lot of gratitude and are always smiling. One learns from them about how they lead their lives and handle pressure. It gives a lot of satisfaction to work for them and be with them. May - June 2015 Curiosity 119

on the shelf

Looking Back Without history, there is no future. Here's a selection of some best-selling books on events that changed the world for those with an appetite for history books!

Empireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossroads: A History of the Caribbean from Columbus to the Present Day By Carrie Gibson

War and Peace By Leo Tolstoy

1869 novel - often described as the greatest ever chronicles the effects of the Napoleonic wars on five aristocratic Russian families. It broadly focuses on Napoleonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s invasion of Russia in 1812 and follows three of the most well-known characters in literature: Pierre Bezukhov, the illegitimate son of a count who is fighting for his inheritance and yearning for spiritual fulfillment; Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, who leaves his family behind to fight in the war against Napoleon; and Natasha Rostov, the beautiful young daughter of a nobleman who intrigues both men.

The New Penguin History of the World By JM Roberts

The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire By Edward Gibbon

A classic timeless work of ancient Roman history in 6 volumes. The work covers the history of the Roman Empire, Europe, and the Catholic Church from 98 to 1590 and discusses the decline of the Roman Empire in the East and West.

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A book of extraordinary ambition, scholarship and accessibility,The New Penguin History of the World covers the history of our planet from our origins on the African savannah to the state of the world six years after September 11, 2001. Tracing the development of different civilizations through the ages, J. M. Roberts examines the periods of turbulence and change, the international shifts in order and power, and the conflicts, divisions, and advances that have shaped the way we live. A truly global and comprehensive chronicle of human experience-of ordinary people, as well as of those in poweracross all continents and conditions, The New Penguin History of the World brilliantly conveys the staggering diversity of human life and achievement.

Poems from the First World War Selected by Gaby Morgan Poems from the First World War is a moving and powerful collection of poems written by soldiers, nurses, mothers, sweethearts and family and friends who experienced the war from different standpoints. It records the early excitement and patriotism, the bravery, friendship and loyalty of the soldiers, and heartbreak, disillusionment and regret as the war went on to damage a generation.

White Mughals By William Dalrymple White Mughals is the romantic and ultimately tragic tale of a passionate love affair that crossed and transcended all the cultural, religious and political boundaries of its time. Dalrymple tells in irresistible detail the saddest story of James Kirkpatrick, the British Resident in Hyderabad who built the most magnificent of all residencies there, and the enchanting Khair un-Nissa. He overcomes every obstacle to marry her, even converting to Islam. Then he dies when she is still only 19, leaving her to be taken up and then dumped by another British officer.

Kim By Rudyard Kipling KIM IS A NOVEL BY NOBEL PRIZE-WINNING ENGLISH AUTHOR RUDYARD KIPLING. THE STORY UNFOLDS AGAINST THE BACKDROP OF THE GREAT GAME, THE POLITICAL CONFLICT BETWEEN RUSSIA AND BRITAIN IN CENTRAL ASIA. IT IS SET AFTER THE SECOND AFGHAN WAR WHICH ENDED IN 1881 AND IS A STORY ABOUT AN IRISH VAGABOND ORPHAN WHO IS TAKEN UP BY THE BRITISH SECRET SERVICE AND CONSCRIPTED INTO THE GREAT GAME OF REPELLING RUSSIAN INFLUENCE IN THE HIMALAYAS. THE NOVEL IS NOTABLE FOR ITS DETAILED PORTRAIT OF THE PEOPLE, CULTURE, AND VARIED RELIGIONS OF INDIA.

Archie's War By Marcia Williams In 1914, just before the outbreak of the First World War, ten-year-old Archie is sent a scrapbook in the post by his Uncle Colin. In the years that follow, until the war ends in 1918, he writes in the book and we experience life through Archie's eyes and learn about his world and his family in an exhilarating collage of strip comics, doodles, drawings, cartoon characters, mementoes, photos, thoughts and jokes. It's an astonishing insight into what it was like to be a child at this important moment in history.

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this & that

Riot of colour

Rajasthan

Indian state of Rajasthan is a treasure trove of colours and crafts. We walked around the bustling bazaars of Jaipur and Jaisalmer and came back with a sack load of hand-made stuff

Mirror Key Chain

handcrafted bangles Beautifully Handcrafted by the skilled karigars of Jaipur engaged in making lakh bangles since generations

String Puppetry The tradition of handmade string puppets of Rajasthan is more than a thousand years old

traditional pottery The finest mix of clay is used to make a variety of pots

Colourful turbans from Udaipur

People wear a turban during special occasions as a sign of Royalty

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Cushion Handmade Cushions Covers are expertly embroidered using traditional threads

Rajasthani Mojari

Styled for comfort, Mojari is recognized as the most classic footwear for men and women.

Traditional shopping bag (Jhola) beautifully embellished with multicolored silk threads, zari and mirror work

Jaipuri Jhola

Belts Embellished with mirrors, buttons, shells and tassels. These are ideal for any outfit.

Umbrella

Beautiful Collectible Umbrella with vibrant colors and gorgeous mirror work.

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pet

power

Pampered

Pooche

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ost Japanese women prefer pets to marriage & parenthood. Despite a plummeting birthrate, there are now many more pets than children in the country. Official estimates put the pet population at 22 million or more, but there are only 16.6 million children under 15. Pampered pooches enjoy holidays at hot spring resorts, yoga classes and designer clothes. In Japan designer labels such as Chanel, Dior, HermĂ¨s and Gucci offer luxury dog products. In many parts of Tokyo, it is easier to buy clothes for dogs than for children. When the unthinkable happens, there are even temples where dead dogs are laid to rest with full Buddhist rites: a deluxe funeral and cremation ceremony can cost $8,000 or more.

unwind &

indulge

CHI The Spa at

Shangri-La The CHI concept, original to Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, embraces a Chinese wellness philosophy. Chi is the universal life force that governs well-being and personal vitality. To maintain good health, it is believed that chi must flow freely within the body. For the first time at CHI, Omani and Middle Eastern healing practices and architectural features are incorporated into the spa experience at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Sultanate of Oman. Designed to create a sanctuary of tranquillity inspired by the legend of “Shangri-La,” CHI features some of the largest and most luxurious private spa suites and villas in 126 Curiosity May - June 2015

of Arabia includes a choice of hammam - a traditional therapy with deep roots in the Middle East using traditional black soap and eucalyptus essential oil - or Coffee Scrub using crushed beans as an exfoliant to increase the absorption of the later-applied lotions. This is then followed by a Frankincense and Rose Wrap, which uses an ancient fragrant blend of rose and frankincense essential oil added to mineral rich marine clay and applied to the body. The body is then wrapped in a heated blanket made of local cloth, which encourages the ingredients to soak slowly into the skin, toning, healing and softening over a 30-minute period. The finishing touch is a Vitality Massage, which includes a gentle and soothing massage that combines elements of Swedish, Shiatsu and Reflexology. Another distinctly Omani feature is the separate hammam facilities for men and women, comprising a steam room and bathing areas with seating coves where up to eight guests can relax before or after their treatments. A six-foot wide octagonal Italian marble plinth is the hammamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focal point and the spot where guests lie down and experience a selection of herbal packs created especially by the spa director for this facility. The hammam area is covered from floor to ceiling in intricate and colourful mosaic tiles.

Oman, all within a secluded, village-like setting of hectares of luxuriant landscaped gardens. There are 12 treatment villas, eight of which are doubles (at 130-140 square metres each) and four for single guests. Each has a private bathroom and vanity area, shower, bath and relaxation area, and a garden court complete with outdoor showers. CHI offers a range of specialised body, water, massage and facial therapies based on ancient healing traditions,

philosophies and rituals. In addition to signature CHI treatments, the spa offers a range of treatments created using natural, local Omani ingredients combined with traditional local health and beauty practices. Locally grown frankincense, renowned for its healing, anti-ageing and calming properties, is incorporated into specially developed base essential oils and clays, providing a Middle Eastern sensory experience in the form of facials, body wraps, scrubs, bath oils and soap. The three-and-a-half-hour signature Journey

In accordance with local tradition, there are separate male and female water oases decorated with floor-to-ceiling elaborate mosaics and playful fountains. In vitality pools, up to four guests can soak in the warm water while enjoying a neck massage provided by special water jets. Both areas also feature an ice fountain where the hardier can be invigorated by rubbing crushed ice on themselves. The Rain Sauna, exclusively for male guests, features water jets positioned above the four large thrones that sprinkle scented water over the seated guests. Meanwhile, for the ladies, an Aromatic Steam Room features a subtly infused mint-eucalyptus aroma. The interior design reflects the overall CHI concept, with an emphasis on the mysticism of Shangri-La and the luxury of personal space. The decor complements and enhances this concept using local Omani architectural accents. May - June 2015 Curiosity 127

health check

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French Beauty Brand LPG Launches

New Skin Rejuvenation Program LPG, the world leader in natural cellular stimulation, has launched an innovative and powerful LPG Skin Rejuvenation program which combines the proven efficiency of New Endermolift with a superficial peel skin care line, specially developed by LPG to treat the skin surface for supple, glowing, youthful skin. A non-aggressive treatment for a unified and smoothed complexion, the new LPG Skin Rejuvenation program is particularly recommended to treat and prevent skin aging, but also to clarify complexion and to tighten pores. Ludovic Loffreda, CEO of LPG Bella Concept LLC said: “This newest addition to our array of anti-aging technologies at LPG is one of the most effective way to restore and renew your skin cells. We have combined two powerful tools that seamlessly work together to bring you the skin you have always dreamt of. “With the New Endermolift technique, that increases elastin by 46% and hyaluronic acid production by 80%*, the peel’s efficiency on tissue regeneration is optimized. The superficial peel is unique as it boosts cellular regeneration: it smoothes lines and wrinkles and restores a healthy glow, in total respect of the skin,” he added.

How does it work? Step 1 The LPG therapist will first remove the makeup from your face with the LPG Pre-Treatment Micellar Lotion. Then on your cleansed skin, therapist will administer on your face the LPG Endermolift treatment to boost the microcirculation and stimulate your skin’s fibroblasts to make them more receptive to the peel. Better prepared for the peel, the skin is less prone to redden and better absorbs the peel. Step 2 Then, the therapist will apply the newest skincare line, the LPG Peel, to the face and neck which exfoliates the skin and boosts cellular regeneration. It is packaged in a syringe-like structure (with no needle)that has an extra soft silicone applicator. The LPG superficial peel formula combines glycolic and mandelic acid for optimal anti-aging results while reducing skin damage risks. The LPG Peeling formula suits all skin types whether sensitive or mature skin.  For sensitive, fine and reactive skins, LPG has developed theLPG PEELING TECHNOLOGY10% (which has only 5% Glycolic acid and 5% Mandelic acid). For normal to thick skins, the LPG PEELING TECHNOLOGY 20% (which has 10% Glycolic acid and 10% Mandelic acid) is recommended.

Step 3 The last step is the application of the LPG Post-Treatment Collagen Mask, which soothes and intensely moisturizes the skin after the peel. This 100% natural bio-cellulose mask is highly occlusive and releases collagen, hyaluronic acid and licorice extract. Step 4 Finally, the application of the Intense Hydrating Smoothing Serum completes the protocol, for a “new skin” result. Immediately you will feel your skin is renewed, with smoothed wrinkles and an enhanced youthful glow. The new LPG Skin Rejuvenation program is available in selected beauty salons equipped with the latest LPG beauty machines, and in medical aesthetic practices equipped with New Endermolift. The program lasts for only 35 minutes and is inclusive of the Post-Treatment Collagen Mask. To get optimal results, it is recommended that you undergo a monthly program of 2 treatments (every other week). Include LPG Skin Rejuvenation treatments in your monthly beauty routine to replenish your skin and look radiant and rejuvenated. Book your appointments now with your LPG therapist or visitwww.lpgsystems.ae for more details.

(*Due to the study of Professor Humbert, Head of the Dermatology Department at the University Hospital of Besançon [France] and Director of the European Skin Study and Research Centre. Professor Humbert carried out a one-of-a-kind study on the biopsies of 20 individuals who were treated on half of their face with the New Endermolift™) May - June 2015 Curiosity 129

health check

Understanding and managing Melasma How do these treatments work? External treatment includes application of hypopigmentation agents like hydroquinone/ tretinoin, with the effect of inhibiting new production of melanin and exfoliation of the damaged layer on the surface with the use of chemical peels and laser therapy.

With spring already fading and the sounds of summer slowly but surely beckoning, it is time to start thinking on ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones as we enjoy our time in the sun. Olimpia Carmen, Cosmetologist and Laser expert at Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic takes time to answer questions on Melasma, which she terms as a common skin ailment that she sees and treats on a daily basis. What is Melasma? Melasma (or chloasma) is a common disorder of hyperpigmented patches on the skin, mostly on the sun-exposed areas of the face and neck. Although Melasma is seen in both sexes, and all races, women are the most commonly affected. What causes it? The cause of Melasma is not fully understood but exposure to UV radiation, genetic factors, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, cosmetics, phototoxic drugs and anti-seizure medication seem to have an important role in the appearance of this debilitating - from an aesthetic point of view - skin disorder. How common is Melasma in the Middle East Region compared to other regions? Melasma affects all types of skin around the globe but surely, countries with stronger sun and UV radiation for most parts of the year like the Middle East have higher incidences of it compared to other areas where the sun is much less. What are the signs of Melasma? It is proven that UV rays exposure to the skin 130 Curiosity May - June 2015

Olimpia Carmen Cosmetologist and Laser Expert Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic causes oxidative damage to its components causing the skin to have "rusty" coloured patches of melanin deposits in the affected areas. Which areas of the body does this skin condition attack most? The most involved and affected areas by Melasma include the malar area (upper cheeks), mandibular and centro-facial area. Histologically, increased pigmentation may be situated in the epidermis (surface) or deeper in the dermis, or in both of them. What treatment options are there for this skin ailment? Current treatments for Melasma can be divided into two categories: Local treatment or external treatment, and general treatment or internal treatment.

The internal treatment when used, is sustained by oral administration of vitamin C or/and vitamin E and intravenous injections with glutathione. The results are better and efficient although we have to consider the side-effects, and the fact that not every patient sufferer of this skin disorder is a good candidate for this treatment. In the choice of therapies for Melasma, the specialist has to establish the risk-benefits ratio for each therapeutic modality and the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and lifestyle. On the other hand, some people go for skin whitening creams bought locally from the supermarket or so, as well as other bleaching products. If these products are used for a very long period of time they will have some sideeffects which can lead to skin atrophy, risk of depigmentation, allergic contact dermatitis, ochronosis etc. How can one manage Melasma? Other than choosing a treatment course, one can also manage it. Melasma caused by hormonal changes, medication and continuous exposure to the sun can be improved and with patient homecare rules to follow, can be kept under control. By going this route, the condition will not become worse nor will it minimize.

Nathalie Haddad Founder and Managing Director The Right Bite Nutrition and Catering Services L.L.C

Right Bite makes working out and keeping fit in summer even more rewarding

Working out in cooler weather is quite easy, but when summer sets in, the heat, at times, can discourage even the most motivated fitness buff. Luckily, we can always head indoors to our favorite gym to keep our exercise routines; and guess what, there’s another reason to stay active and work for that beach body you’ve always dreamed of: Right Bite’s beat-the-heat promo to help you on your ultimate summer workout!

performance. Whether you want to bulk up or get lean, this program balances carbohydrates and proteins to maximise the nutritional intake your body needs to achieve peak performance.

Pioneering the concept of customised healthy meal deliveries, Right Bite continues to actively promote health and wellness by making your summer workouts more rewarding. As you need proper nutrition to ensure maximum success in your training program, Right Bite is offering a sizzling-hot deal with its FuelUp program.

The offer is valid from April 1st to June 30th 2015.

FuelUp is designed for individuals who want to increase in muscle mass, reach a desirable body fat percentage, as well as ensure they are getting the right nutrition to improve their athletic

The deal: Simply present a valid membership card from any gym or fitness centre in the UAE, quote the promo code ‘RBFUEL763’ and avail of a 15% discount on Right Bite’s FuelUp program.

Nathalie Haddad, Founder and Managing Director, The Right Bite Nutrition and Catering Services L.L.C., said: “You need an appropriate diet that will give you the energy to do your workouts and get the results you deserve. Now is a good time to take advantage of your gym memberships, and we devised this promotion exactly for that purpose – give you the extra push to stay committed to your efforts of staying active and keeping fit, and curb any tendencies to skip training because of the hot and humid weather in the summer!” May - June 2015 Curiosity 131

health check

Travel

Happy & Healthy

at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is not always easy to do, especially when you are on the go. If your 2015 resolutions involve living a healthier lifestyle, DFW International Airport provides many options for you right inside our terminals. Thinking about grabbing a healthy meal before you jet to your next business meeting? How about treating yourself to a massage right after you land from a long flight? Needing a new gift idea for a healthy-conscious friend? Whatever it may be, we’ve got you covered to refuel on the fly.

Fit & Filling The best part about being at the Airport is the fit and filling meals you can find inside the terminals. If you desire a quick bite or want to sit and savor a meal, DFW has over 150 restaurants with a variety of cuisines. These healthy dining options are right near your gate, or feel free to get some walking exercise in, hop on DFW’s iconic Skylink train (find the yellow and blue signs), and connect to the other terminals in just a few minutes to explore more. Each terminal offers a variety of different restaurants to choose from so you can stay on track and make a smart dining choice. Each restaurant at DFW has a healthy item to offer, so make sure to see the list of healthy meal options to get you started.

Relaxing & Rejuvenating DFW has various relaxation options just around 132 Curiosity May - June 2015

the corner from your gate. If you are in need of a quick retreat, head to Minute Suites (D23) for a refreshing nap or get a manicure and massage at XpresSpa (D20, D24). The Interfaith Chapels (A21, B28, D21 and C4) also serve as a great place to regain some needed peace. Check into DFW Airport’s Yoga Studio (D40) where travelers can practice breathing exercises and stretches, all before or after a long flight. Interested in seeing beautiful art? Walk the one-mile path in Terminal D marked with mosaic medallions. See a list of other services to add to your travel planner.

Healthy & Happy Shopping for items to maintain a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge. DFW offers world-class shopping inside all five terminals so finding that perfect item is easy. Whether you are shopping for a new tea kettle, a neck massage pillow, or a new MP3 player to play your soothing music, DFW has everything from small, boutique shops to brand name goods to Duty Free stores. Each terminal offers different shops so make sure to see the list to get you started. Stay happily connected to work and loved ones by taking advantage of DFW’s free

Wi-Fi (provided by AT&T), available throughout all terminals. For some peace of mind, charge your electronic devices at our free power and free internet stations, available in select areas in each terminal.

(Re)defining DFW International Airport DFW International Airport’s $2.3 billion Terminal Renewal and Improvement Program (TRIP) is (re)defining first class for this global gateway. For the latest details regarding TRIP, log on to www.dfwairport.com/redefine.

Amna Bldg., near IT Plaza, Silicon Oasis, Dubai. Tel: 04 3263261 Business Village, near Clock Tower, Deira. Tel: 04 2955491 Blue Tower, SHK. Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: 04 3515011 Al Nahda Metro Station, Exit - 2. Tel: 04 2558792 Union Metro Station. Tel: 042364966 Oud Metha Metro Station: Tel: 04 3854610 May - June 2015 Curiosity 133

bits &

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IHG TRANSLATOR APP TO FEATURE ON APPLE WATCH ®

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced that the highly-rated IHG® Translator App, will be available for Apple Watch™, giving travellers access to on-demand translations, virtually anywhere in the world. The app adopts the most popular features from its mobile predecessor, allowing users to ‘travel like a local’, whatever their choice of device. By speaking directly into the watch, or selecting from a range of pre-loaded common phrases, travellers will be able to translate from English into 12 different languages*, in real-time, meaning the app will cover the nine initial launch countries for Apple Watch™. Translations will appear instantly on the screen of the device in the chosen language, giving users the chance to read the word or phrase, with the help of phonetic spelling. Formal, casual and slang settings will also be available. Michael Menis, Senior Vice President for Digital and Voice Channels at IHG, commented: “At IHG we know that for today’s consumer, technology is fundamental to driving superior experiences across the entire Guest Journey. We are committed to helping travellers make the most of their experience, wherever they are in the world, be

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it through a personal computer, mobile device or wearable technology. We’re excited to have a version of our IHG Translator App ready for Apple Watch.” To coincide with the launch of Apple Watch™, IHG is making the IHG Translator App available to all users of the new device free of charge. The IHG Translator App for mobile remains available for download in both the App Store for iPhone and Google Play for Android. *IHG® Translator Apple Watch App – available languages: 1. Castilian Spanish 2. French 3. German 4. Hindi 5. Italian 6. Japanese 7. Korean 8. Mandarin 9. Portuguese 10. Russian 11. Spanish 12. Thai

Gateway Expands Customer Services with SMS Notifications Feature Travel Agents to receive SMS notifications to help avoid cancellation costs along with 24/7 customer service Gateway, an online hotel booking engine providing B2B booking solutions, has expanded its system to add an SMS notification feature that helps agents avoid unnecessary cancellation costs.

Shahjahan Sayed, Regional Sales Manager GCC & Middle East

The new SMS notification service now makes it possible to enter a mobile phone number and multiple email addresses in order to receive notifications of any upcoming cancellation costs for a hotel booking made through the Gateway system. Agents can also decide how many days in advance they would like to receive the notifications. Shahjahan Syed, Regional Sales Manager GCC and Middle East for Gateway, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the Gateway customer support desk that is accessible 24/7 via mail, telephone and chat, the new feature will

further augment the exceptional quality of service that Gateway provides to its users.â&#x20AC;? The new SMS notification feature has received favourable responses from many of the agents within Middle East signed up to the Gateway system. To date Gateway is the only online booking system in the Middle East offering this kind of SMS notification service along with a permanently accessible customer service. With access to over 200,000 unique hotels worldwide, Gateway also remains the only hotel booking engine to provide travel agents access to business and leisure hotels, boutique hotels, aparthotels, wellness resorts, and guest houses worldwide.

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Electrolux Introduces State-of-the-Art Kitchen Tools Make the best crushed-ice smoothies or whip up a fabulous meal in no time for your next dinner party. Electrolux introduces the Masterpiece Collection®, a new, powerful range of small kitchen appliances created with the expertise gained from designing professional appliances for some of the world’s best chefs. The collection includes a tabletop blender, a food processor and an immersion blender. Learning from and working with some of the world’s best chefs, Electrolux has gained experience and knowledge which have been transferred to this high-end line of appliances for customers who want to cook professional-quality meals at home. The Masterpiece Collection has unique technology such as the PowerTilt technology for smoother blending, and TruFlow Pro technology to swiftly create the smoothest velvety results with precision for any ingredient. These innovations each come from years’ worth of research and testing in professional kitchens, 136 Curiosity May - June 2015

where innovations only count when they serve to improve taste. “Almost half of all Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe use Electrolux appliances, and with the next Masterpiece Collection we bring that expertise to your kitchen, says Shady Ibrahim, Middle East Sales Manager for Electrolux Small Appliances. “The state-of-the-art range has unique, tested technology and will help consumers to create results that match restaurantlevel ambitions with maximum cooking efficiency.” The Masterpiece Collection will be available from 15th April 2015. Its timeless classic appearance is a result of a mix of dies, cast aluminum and stainless steel.. To create great taste you need the ingredients in combination with the right products. In order to cultivate culinary capabilities, Electrolux is sharing three beautiful recipe videos starring superior local ingredients from India, France and Sweden.

Creating memorable experiences..

Located in the heart of new Dubai, the five star Grand Millennium Dubai is conveniently accessible from the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prime business and leisure attractions. The hotel is within close proximity from prominent shopping malls, beaches, touristic destinations and champion-ship standard golf courses. The 340-room hotel features modernly decorated rooms and newly refurbished serviced apartments. The hotel boasts a range of award-winning restaurants and bars, rooftop pool, a nine treatment room spa and health club, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, a magnificent ballroom and exceptional banquet facilities.

For reservation or more information n T +971 4 429 9999 n E reservations.gmhd@millenniumhotels.com www.grandmillenniumdubai.com Free scheduled shuttle service to the Dubai Internet City metro station. For more information contact the concierge.

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movers &

shakers New Deputy General Manager at Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi has appointed Urs Solenthaler as their new Deputy General Manager, reporting to General Manager Shaun Parsons.

Jerome Kandalaft Joins Concorde Hotel Fujairah as General Manager Concorde Hotel Fujairah, a luxury accommodation in the heart of Fujairah has announced the appointment of its new General Manager, Jerome Kandalaft. Mr Kandalaft holds a Masters degree in Hospitality Management and his hospitality career spans over 14 years. His passion, vision and determination have seen him progressively scale the ranks of the industry to attain the top management position and he has worked for several leading hotel brands such as InterContinental Hotels; Hilton Hotels; Shangri-la Qaryat al Berri, Al Raha Beach Hotel and lately Gloria Hotels.

Originally from Switzerland, Solenthaler has over 28 years of 5* hotel experience in a number of different regions including Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He spent the last three years working for the Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts Group, most recently in Manila, Philippines as Resident Manager, and prior to that as Executive Assistant Manager Food and Beverage at the Shangri-La Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Before that he was Director of Food & Beverage at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sentosa Resort & Spa in Singapore, and the Goodwood Park Hotel in Singapore, where he also spent one year as Executive Chef.

Rezidor Promotes Three Employees into Leadership Roles

Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Apartments Appoints Hotel Manager The Rezidor Hotel Group announced that its newest Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Apartments, located in Dubai’s Al Barsha neighbourhood, will be managed by Michael Kuhn. Kuhn brings with him over 15 of experience in the hospitality industry. 138 Curiosity May - June 2015

The Rezidor Hotel Group announced three new promotions in its KSA operations. Saudi national Shakeel Al Hamid has been promoted to cluster general manager for the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah and the Radisson Blu Royal Suite Hotel, Jeddah; Jaafer Hamadin has been promoted to district training manager KSA, and Raza Hasnain has been promoted to district revenue manager KSA. In his new role as cluster general manager, Shakeel Al Hamid will be responsible for the overall operations of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah, and the Radisson Blu Royal Suite Hotel, Jeddah, properties he has been familiar with since 2004. Jaafer Hamadin, as newly-appointed district training manager KSA, will be responsible for the administration of training and development standards for all Rezidor hotels within the country,

including driving the Rezidor Hotel Group culture. As district revenue manager KSA, Raza Hasnain will be responsible for managing the portfolio of the Park Inn by Radisson and Radisson Blu Hotel in KSA, including supervising the daily practice of the maximisation of rooms, meetings and events revenue. Basel Talal general manager, district director, Saudi Arabia, said: “On behalf of Rezidor Hotel Group, I would like to offer congratulations to our newly-appointed employees, and offer them the best of luck in their new roles. Our philosophy is to develop talent within our own ranks, creating a highly sustainable chain of future leaders who are fully immersed in our unique corporate culture. Shakeel, Jaafer, and Raza have each been with us for a number of years, and we look forward to seeing them succeed in their leadership positions.”

Mikael Svensson has joined as General Manager of Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah, ahead of the property’s opening in 2016. A dynamic leader in the international luxury hotel industry, Svensson is well placed to oversee the launch of the USD$1 billion property, Viceroy Hotel Group’s first venture into Dubai. Swedish-born Svensson joins Viceroy Hotel Group from his current role as General Manager at Park Hyatt Canberra, which rounds out his 21 years with Hyatt. Previously, Svensson held a number of successful leadership positions with Hyatt in Seoul, Hong Kong, Taipei, Osaka, Mumbai, Tokyo, and Hua Hin in Thailand.

New General Manager at Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah

“As one of our most significant hotel openings in the region, we are delighted to bring someone of Mikael’s caliber to lead the team at Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah. His level of expertise, passion and dedication will prove invaluable to the launch, and we expect this property to set a new bar in beachfront luxury worldwide,” said Bill Walshe, CEO of Viceroy Hotel Group.

Travco Group Promotes Osama Bushra to Vice Chairman

New General Manager at Al Forsan International Sports Resort Al Forsan International Sports Resort announced the appointment of its new General Manager Rashed Al Qubaisi. After working as Deputy General Manager of the sports resort for over two years, Rashed, with his strong leadership skills and vast knowledge and passion for sports is going to be responsible for the operations and organization of Al Forsan on a day to day basis, along with overseeing the development and strategic projects of the resort. “It is a tall responsibility, but one that I’m very honored and glad to accept. While Al Forsan remains to be the country’s premier leisure and sports destination, during my term, I aim to take it even further to the next level. As we improve our facilities and services internally, we also include it in our mission to reach out to more people and encourage them to embrace an active and healthy life today,” says Rashed.

Travco Group, a leading hotel and tour operator with strong presence in the UAE, announced the promotion of Osama Bushra to Vice Chairman to lead the group’s expansion globally and build strategic partnership with leading tour operators. Osama, who held the position of Chief Operating Officer of Travco Group, has significantly contributed to the group’s success and strong performance over the years. With three decades of successful management record in the travel and tourism industry, Osama’s strong leadership and keen industry insight will further boost Travco Group’s reputation in the industry.

Park Regis Kris Kin Dubai Appoints Senior Sous Chef The superb culinary team of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Dubai, is further strengthened with the addition of seasoned Chef Ian Walke, who has been appointed as Senior Sous Chef. Just before joining the Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Dubai, Walke was working as Head Chef at St Tropez Restaurant, the French Bistro located at the Mall of Emirates, Dubai. He has carved a niche for himself in the city by presenting French classic cuisine with a modern twist, while leading a team of ten chefs. He was earlier working as Head Chef at Fraiche Bistro & Restaurant in Dubai, serving French, modern British and European cuisine. Mr. Scott Butcher, General Manager of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, said that Chef Walke is a great addition to the team. In his new role, Chef Walke's main responsibility will be to assist the executive chef in the overall kitchen operations particularly in Le Metro, Grandstand and Room Service. Walke is a British national who obtained NVQ Certificate in Hospitality and Catering from the West Kent College, Kent, UK, in 1999. During a career span of 16 years, Walke has worked with leading restaurants in the UK, Australia, France and Italy, as well as on the luxury cruise liners Costa Mediterranean of Italy as well as Fred Olson Cruise lines – MS Balmoral and P&O Cruises’ MV Aurora and MV Artemis of UK, before coming to the UAE.

In his new role as Vice Chairman Bushra’s main focus is to establish new business projects with set targets including establishing corporate entities within the Jebel Ali Free Zone and DMCCA and corporate entities in Sri Lanka. He will also be directly involved in the training and recruitment of supervisors and staff. His skills and knowledge of the industry will contribute in reaching untapped markets, understand their needs and identify new opportunities. After successfully establishing Travco Dubai, a destination management company, he will oversee the entire Travel Division of Travco Dubai, Egypt, Oman and Jordan.. May - June 2015 Curiosity 139

check-in check-out Our travel team anonymously checked into some fabulous hotels this season and they just didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to check-out of some. We list them out for you

Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

No. of Rooms & Suites: 42 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai-Al Ain Road Tel: +971 4 832 9900

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No. of Rooms & Suites: 394 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 690 9000

Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi May - June 2015 Curiosity 141

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort

No. of Rooms & Suites: 272 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 677 3333

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No. of Rooms & Suites: 257 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Dibba, Fujairah Tel: +971 9 244 9700

Radisson Blu Resort Fujairah May - June 2015 Curiosity 143

No. of Rooms : 208 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Exit 13, Sheikh Zayed Road (Towards Abu Dhabi) Tel: +971 814 5800

JA Palm Tree Court, Dubai 144 Curiosity May - June 2015

St. Regis Abu Dhabi No. of Rooms: 228 & Grand suites: 55 Hotel Rating: 5 Star Location: Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 694 4444

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focus

theindesigner Exhibition Opens in Dubai Organized by GATA Events & Promotions, the highly anticipated design event theindesigner officially began at Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; de Rose, Wasl Road with an opening ceremony that drew a large crowd of social and public figures, designers from all fields, bloggers and media. The event was opened by the organiser of the indesigner event and Mrs. Sandra Ghattas the Managing Director of GATA Events & Promotions and Alanoud Badr, founder of Lady Fozaza. Pictures Supplied

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Le Méridien Dubai Hotel Launches ‘Secrets of Gourmet Cuisine’ Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre celebrated years of culinary expertise across their 18 distinctly styled restaurants, by launching ‘Secrets of Gourmet Cuisine’, on February 26th 2015. ‘Secrets of Gourmet Cuisine’ reveals secrets of thoughtfully crafted meals, unfolding the adventure of cooking for epicureans with a passion for cooking. More than a cookbook, ‘Secrets of Gourmet Cuisine’ has been personally designed by Executive Chef Pierrick Cizeron and his expert team of chefs at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre. Pictures by Firoze Edassery

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Re-launch of Sisters Beauty Lounge Sisters Beauty Lounge re-launched a bigger and better branch at City Center Mirdif recently. The Beauty Lounge has now added amenities such as the Moroccan Hammam for body scrubs and massages; Redken hair products that can also be purchased at the salon; and the ever-popular Brow Perfect eyebrow extensions. Sisters celebrated the event with free-flowing beverages and canapĂŠs along with live entertainment by a ballerina to complete the glamorous ambience. Pictures Supplied

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The Middle East Fashion Awards Winners – The Middle East Fashion Awards’ winners were announced on Friday, April 3rd 2015 during the gala dinner of Fashion Victims Season 2 held at The Atlantis. The show was attended by the stars of the fashion industry, enlivened by the region’s top music icon, Nancy Ajram and hosted by presenter, Shereen Mitwalli. Pictures Supplied

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Launch of LPG Skin Rejuvenation Programme LPG, the world leader in natural cellular stimulation, has launched an innovative and powerful LPG Skin Rejuvenation programme which combines the proven efficiency of New Endermolift with a superficial peel skin care line, specially developed by LPG to treat the skin surface for a supple, youthful glow. Pictures Supplied

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Dubai International Art Symposium Sheikh Jumaa bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, the Managing Director of Rashid Centre for the Disabled and Chairman of Dubai International Art Symposium inaugurated the symposium’s second edition at the centre’s headquarters ‘Rashid Paediatric Centre,’ in Dubai recently. Twenty-six artists from 16 Arab countries and some others, including 21 first-time participants, participated in painting workshops at the event. Sheikh Jumaa toured the art workshops and chatted with artists as they were working on painting colourful expressions of tweets by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, as this year’s symposium is titled “Colourful Tweets”. Pictures by Firoze Edassery

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‘Taste of WAFI’ Brings Exquisite Tastes and Aromas to Dubai An explosion of taste and aroma comes to Wafi from around the world as the latest edition of Taste of Wafi begins at the eponymous mall this April and runs till June 13th 2015 – every Saturday. Wafi’s famous food bazaar and celebration of culinary culture enlivens the Mall’s Colonnaded area. Every Saturday, between 10 am to 7 am, visitors will be drawn by the tempting aroma of international cuisine attracting visitors to a wide selection of sweet and savoury treats. The food bazaar will also feature locally produced edibles made from only the finest ingredients, ranging from delicious cakes and biscuits to fresh organic produce. Pictures by Firoze Edassery

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Founded in 2003 in Dubai, HMH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hospitality Management Holdings is a fully-integrated hotel management company that prides itself on being the first hotel chain in the Middle East to offer halal-friendly, alcohol-free safe environment. We provide hotel owners and developers a broad spectrum of comprehensive management solutions with five distinct, yet complementary, hotel brands catering to varied market segments from luxury to budget. These include The Ajman Palace Hotel, Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels.

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