Durrah Issue 53 - A by Durrah Luxury Magazine

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 01 AUTUMN 2021

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T HE A RT OF

HIGH JEW ELLERY

JAMES BOND’S CHOICE On the trail of a mysterious villain, James Bond faces his latest mission in No Time To Die wearing the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M. This

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BIG BANG ONE CLICK 18K King Gold case set with diamonds. Self-winding movement. Interchangeable strap using patented One-Click system.

THE GULFSTREAM DIFFERENCE Your mission is our inspiration. Every investment we make—in advanced technology, precision manufacturing and worldwide customer support—is an investment in you.

WELCOME

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First Impression

A word from the editor-in-chief

September 2021

Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Ronald Fuentes Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555 VOLUME 14 ISSUE 01 AUTUMN 2021

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Here we are with yet another luxurious issue of Durrah! As our dear readers have come to expect by now, we spare no effort and no expense to craft a magazine filled to the brim with interesting insights and the latest offerings from locations around the globe. I’m always delightfully surprised by the sheer number of talents and magnificent creations to be found in our quest to capture the finer things in life. This time around, we shed the spotlight on the ever-exciting world of automotive. We talk to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director Middle East & Africa, César Habib about the prestigious brand’s universe, explore BMW’s electrification goals with Euro Motors General Manager, David McGoldrick, and discover the brand-new experience offered by Adamas Motors in their new Bahrain showroom. The issue also puts the jewellery sector front and center with features on Sixième Sens par Cartier, Chopard’s Red Carpet Collection, Hublot’s new MP-09 timepieces, and more.

We find out more about the American Mission Hospital with Corporate CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. George Cheriyan, and Group CEO, Julia Tovey, who reveal the hospital’s latest advancements and its efforts during the pandemic. We also discover the amazing experiences that await visitors at the iconic Yas Island and its world class hotels, award-winning theme parks, and Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi’s largest mall. And as always, it wouldn’t be Durrah without the most breathtaking travel sights, the finest dining destinations, the latest in designer brand apparel, and the numerous articles that cater to the palette of the most discerning connoisseurs. Where there’s luxury, there’s Durrah.

COVER IMAGE Exquisite and timeless DURRAH is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.

Enjoy your read!

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

ISSN 2210-1322

DURRAHMAGAZINE

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh

SAKSME.COM

ACLER

ONLY AT SAKS

City Centre Bahrain

CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

September 2021

Volume 14 Issue 01 Autumn 2021

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Editor’s Letter

Interview with Al Haddad Motors General Manager, Warren Hudson

Sixième Sens par Cartier

First Impression

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Automotive Purity

True Prestige

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Interview with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director Middle East & Africa, César Habib

The new International Turf Series

A History of Compassion

Inspiring Greatness

The Sixth Sense

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A Jewellery Paradise

Chopard’s Red Carpet Collection

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Beauty and Creativity

Interview with American Mission Hospital Corporate CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. George Cheriyan, and Group CEO, Julia Tovey

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026

040

Vacheron Constantin High Watchmaking

Interview with Adamas Chairman and CEO, Karl Hamer

Interview with Director of Content at 50 Best, William Drew

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Prestige Performance

The World’s Finest Seven Car Lounge

Top Taste

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Interview with Euro Motors General Manager, David McGoldrick

Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Unparalleled Experiences

Epitome of Luxury

Past Forward by OUSHK

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The Tourbillon

James Bond’s Choice

The OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition

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110

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098

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Hublot’s new versions of the MP-09 “Manufacture Piece” collection

Perfumes for women

The latest in high-end men’s shoes

Technique and Style

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A New Chapter

The TAG Heuer Carrera

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Insatiable Innovation Jacob & Co.

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Distance Creates Beauty

Interview with artist Isabelle Scheltjens

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Fresh and Bold Perfumes for men

Alluring Fragrances

Quality and Class

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Project bYouty

The latest in designer brand women’s shoes

Cool to be Conscious

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Stepping in Style

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Beauty Trends

Color, Creativity, and Passion

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126

The latest in luxury cosmetics

Jimmy Choo

The Core Collection

Interview with artist Antonio Murgia

The Inimitable Rolex Experience

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Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique

The latest in ladies’ brand name bags

Boutique Experience

Exquisite Style

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Luxurious shopping destinations

CONTENTS

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September 2021

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186

210 192

138

Waterfront Living at Its Fines Diyar Al Muharraq’s Al Naseem

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Endless Fun Yas Island

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Swiss Enchantment Discover Canton de Vaud

150

Redefining Hospitality

166

196

Interview with Chef Heros de Agostinis

The Rolls-Royce Ghost

Cooking with Love

Simply Perfection

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200

Gunaydin Bahrain

Reviews of the latest luxury brands in the automotive industry

A Slice of Istanbul

172

Refined Taste Top dining locations

186

An Unforgettable Premier

Driving In Style

210

Must Haves for Men Luxury items for men

216

Must Haves for Women

The best hotels in the world

Ferretti Group at the Cannes Yachting Festival

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192

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The best spas in the world

The new Bentley Continental GT Speed

Jewellery Arabia 2021 and Bahrain International Trophy 2021

Serene Treatments

Made to Thrill

Luxury items for women

Final Pearl

Al A'ali Mall , Bahrain Mall , City Center Bahrain Moda Mall , MCA Muharraq , Riffa Salmaniya , Seef Mall +973 1616 0000, +973 1616 0060

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TRUE PRESTIGE Overseen by the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club, a new International Turf Series is introduced to Bahrain race program.

Bahrain’s horse racing program is rapidly evolving due to the unwavering support it continues to receive from HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The robust horseracing infrastructure the Kingdom proudly boasts is only one of the wide-ranging attributes that make an ideal hub for the sport to flourish and expand locally, regionally, and internationally. Building on this development, and the success of the Bahrain International Trophy, a brand-new turf series will begin in Bahrain from December 2021. Ten new races have been introduced to the Bahrain race program specifically targeting international horses rated 85-100. The Bahrain Turf Series will be linked together and run alongside the best racing in Bahrain, including the prestigious King’s Cup, Crown Prince’s Cup and National Day Grade One. This will not only increase the competitiveness of the races held in the Kingdom, but also make more rewarding the participation of Bahraini jockeys and owners alike. With wider international participation, Bahraini jockeys and owners will be able to add to their rich horse racing expertise and showcase their local talent on a global level. The Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club will oversee all racing in Bahrain, providing a top-class

concierge service for owners with horses running and trained in Bahrain. The Bahrain Turf Series will offer exclusive benefits and opportunities to owners, ensuring an excellent experience of Bahrain. Ahead of the new Turf Series starting, the third running of the Bahrain International Trophy will take place on Friday 19th November 2021 at Sakhir Racecourse. The race has attracted high-quality international entries in its first two years, including five individual Group 1 winners in 2020. Last year’s race was won by the locally trained Simsir, who just edged out Global Giant (John Gosden) and Sovereign (Aidan O’Brien). The race is open to horses rated over 95 and is run over a distance of 2000 meters (10 furlongs). There will be three races which will grant “Automatic Invitation” to the winners even if not originally entered, taking place on Friday August 13th – The Curragh – Fitzdares Royal Whip Stakes (G3), Saturday August 21st York – The Sky Bet and Symphony Group Strensall Stakes (G3), and Saturday October 9th Newmarket – The Darley Stakes (G3). Entries for the race close on Tuesday 5th October. HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club High Committee said: “I am very proud of the Bahrain International Trophy. We have hosted

September 2021

01 The Bahrain International Trophy 02 HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club High Committee

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September 2021

the race for two years and we will be hosting it again in 2021 for the third time, having seen a huge jump in the quality of horses and participants in year two. By introducing the new Bahrain Turf Series, we hope to further attract great horses to the Kingdom of Bahrain, horses that can add a higher quality of performance to our two most prestigious races, His Majesty the King’s Cup and HRH the Crown Prince’s Cup. My own personal goal is to develop the industry of thoroughbred horse racing in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and if we are able to facilitate our Bahraini trainers and jockey’s relationships with European connections that will be one of my key goals met.” HH Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid bin Isa Al Khalifa, Deputy Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian & Horse Racing Club said: “We are delighted to be introducing the new Bahrain Turf Series to our race program and hosting these races for the forthcoming season. We look forward to welcoming owners and trainers to experience horse racing in Bahrain and everything that the Kingdom of Bahrain has to offer.” Shaikh Salman bin Rashed Al Khalifa, Executive Director of the Rashid Equestrian & Horse Racing Club said: “It is an incredibly exciting time for horse racing in Bahrain. We have been blown away with the amount of quality trainers, jockeys, and horses who have come to race in Bahrain since the first Bahrain International Trophy in 2019. To have had five individual Group 1 winners in our second running of the race, including Aidan O’Brien’s Irish Derby winner, Sovereign was very special. Off the back of the race’s success, the Rashid Equestrian & Horse Racing Club are very proud to introduce the Bahrain Turf Series for the 2021/22 season in Bahrain.” bhra.gov.bh

04 05

03 The logo for the new Turf Series 04 Simsir winning the 2020 Trophy 05 The trophy, designed by Gerrard

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A History of Compassion Established in 1903, the American Mission Hospital has been serving Bahrain’s community for almost 120 years. We explore the hospital’s latest advancements and its efforts during the pandemic with Corporate CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. George Cheriyan, and Group CEO, Julia Tovey. INTERVIEW WITH DR. GEORGE CHERIYAN DOES AMH PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN LIMITING THE EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC? HOW IS IT CONTRIBUTING TO NATIONAL EFFORTS?

completed next year, part of the teaching complex. It will also allow medical and nursing students to be a part of the new hospital. We have also signed MoUs with the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which is the second largest children’s hospital in the United States, as well as a hospital in London for specialist referrals and consultations for complex diseases in children. We have an MoU with CedarsSinai hospital in Los Angeles, the largest hospital in that city, also for specialist referrals, and are finalizing a collaboration with Mayo Clinic.

As one of the premier private medical institutions in Bahrain, we have helped prevent the spread of pandemics as early as 1918 and 1919, when the first Spanish flu pandemic swept across Bahrain. At that time, we were the only healthcare institution that existed, government or private, so we certainly have experience in dealing with such situations in the past. Fortunately, a hundred years on now, technology and advances in medical sciences have greatly contributed to the speed with which this pandemic has been dealt with. A lot of appreciation is due to the national taskforce which has led the efforts to contain the local effects of the pandemic. As a healthcare institution we continue to play a significant role in containing the pandemic in Bahrain by participating in the testing, tracing, and quarantine facilities alongside the government.

Three things distinguish us from any other health care facility in Bahrain: first of all, we have been around for 120 years, which is longer than any other health care system in Bahrain, including the government. Secondly, we are a not-for-profit hospital. Finally, instead of profits, we are driven by the quality of healthcare we offer and how compassionately we can provide this care.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR VARIOUS COLLABORATIONS?

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT CHALLENGES FACING AMH?

AMH has signed an MoU with the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Bahrain (RCSI-Bahrain) which will make the new hospital, which will be

The major challenge facing not just AMH but also other private and public hospitals in Bahrain is that the cost of medical care is rising significantly.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE DISTINGUISHES AMH FROM OTHER HEALTHCARE INSTITUTIONS IN THE KINGDOM?

September 2021

The second challenge is hiring and retaining highly qualified healthcare specialists in a small country like Bahrain. Even though the Kingdom is producing its own doctors and nurses, it’s going to be at least 10 to 20 years before the Kingdom becomes selfsufficient in this regard. The third challenge is how to combat and control the increasing incidence of noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. For example, Bahrain has the third highest number of type 2 diabetes cases in the world, which leads to other complications such as renal failure or eye problems. These so-called lifestyle diseases are best tackled through prevention rather than cure, and it is one of our major challenges to lead people to healthier choices.

HOW DO YOU SEE BAHRAIN’S HEALTHCARE FIELD EVOLVING IN THE NEAR FUTURE? SHOULD WE EXPECT A FOCUS ON CERTAIN AREAS AS TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES? Digital advancements are completely transforming the way that healthcare is delivered. Patient experience takes center stage, allowing patients to book appointments, schedule followups, manage prescriptions and more, through digital platforms. The care provided is also highly specialized due to advances in technology-the latest MRI and CT scan machines have AI capabilities which not only make them more effective at diagnosing illnesses but can also help to create treatment plans that are precisely tailored to each patient’s needs. Going forward, we will also see a focus in preventative measures to combat the development of noncommunicable diseases. 01 AMH Corporate CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. George Cheriyan 02 The new state-of-the-art clinic soon to open in A’Ali

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03, 04, 05, 06 The various offerings of the new clinic 07 AMH Group CEO, Julia Tovey

September 2021

INTERVIEW WITH JULIA TOVEY WAS AMH AFFECTED IN ANY WAY BY THE PANDEMIC? WHAT PROCEDURES OR MEASURES HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO COUNTER IT? Like any healthcare organization not only in Bahrain but globally, AMH was transformed by the strict safety measures we put into place to comply with the regulations set forth by the national taskforce to combat the spread of COVID-19. We continue to keep current with all the latest updates and adapt quickly to keep our patients as safe as possible.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE CAPABILITIES OF AMH? WHAT TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS DOES EACH BRANCH EMPLOY AND WHAT CAN PATIENTS EXPECT? AMH has been providing healthcare for 120 years, and healthcare is a field which is constantly evolving, which means that we have been evolving with it. Medtech is transforming healthcare, and the latest advancements allow patients to access care remotely via telehealth services and manage their care and treatment plans better. What remains constant is our commitment to keeping abreast of all the latest technologies to deliver the best possible care.

AMH WAS RECENTLY AWARDED DIAMOND STATUS AGAIN BY THE NATIONAL HEALTH REGULATORY AUTHORITY. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ENABLED YOU TO SECURE THAT PRESTIGIOUS STATUS? AMH is unique in that it is a not-for-profit organization, which means we provide quality healthcare for everyone at an affordable cost and also do a lot of charity work. All revenues go back towards developing services and expanding our

reach. In the last 5 to 8 years, we have conducted community events every single month to spread education about preventative healthcare measures so that people can lead healthier lives and make better lifestyle choices. We have especially focused on children so that they can start early and avoid the onset of lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Currently in the pipeline we have plans to open an activity center for children with special needs, which will be available after school hours and will be run by a psychologist who can do assessments and offer play therapy. We have also created the Zwemer clinic to offer free or low-cost healthcare to individuals who cannot otherwise afford it.

AMH REMAINS A LEADER IN THE KINGDOM’S HEALTHCARE SECTOR. IS IT CHALLENGING TO MAINTAIN THAT POSITION IN THE FACE OF GROWING COMPETITION? Absolutely not. For profit and not-for-profit are two very different business models. We are unique in our not-for-profit status, and we are not driven by revenues, therefore we are not facing any competition. We do not have stakeholders, instead we have a board of directors who make sure we are fulfilling our mission to serve the community. Our patients trust us and know that the quality of care they will receive is consistent, so they keep coming back.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR AMH? ARE THERE NEW BRANCHES OPENING SOON? In the last five to six years, AMH has opened clinics in every governorate in Bahrain. We are now working to launch a new state-of-the-art clinic in A’Ali with 120 beds, which will offer services not offered anywhere else in Bahrain. amh.org.bh

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Prestige Performance Adamas Chairman and CEO, Karl Hamer reveals the unique experience awaiting visitors at the brand’s new Bahrain showroom.

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE BAHRAIN FOR YOUR NEW SHOWROOM? I have always felt a closeness to Bahrain. I have been coming here for many years. I love everything about it, from the rich history to the wonderful people. We opened this showroom in Bahrain because we know that it’s home to discerning car buyers. There are many car collectors here, and they would all appreciate what Adamas has to offer.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE BRANDS IN THE SHOWROOM? I wanted this to be a different experience. We decided we would make the world’s first ever department store for cars. I didn’t want this to be just another garage. This is why we picked Moda Mall as our unique venue. We are right there between Gucci and Valentino. There is a coffee shop here for visitors and a majlis for Aston Martin. The models on display range from $50,000 to $3 million, which is sure to appeal to true car aficionados.

WHAT MAKES THE ADAMAS BRAND UNIQUE? Adamas is a very old Greek word. The word ‘diamond’ derives from it. It refers to something that is invincible and dependable. The name of the brand itself is unique, as it resonates with both locals and expats. We wanted to offer an experience that’s equally special. So, when you enter Moda Mall, you get the same variety and prestige you would get from an upscale shopping experience. You see classic

cars by Morgan, sporty and electric cars by Lotus – which will have SUVs coming next year, and ultimate luxury cars by Aston Martin. It really is a one-of-akind experience.

WHAT ARE ADAMAS’ PLANS WHEN IT COMES TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES? Geely owns Lotus and has stake in other prominent brands, all of which are now at the forefront of the Electric Vehicle (EV) movement. We are opening a new factory soon, and it will serve as a major milestone for us in this field. The Lotus Emira will be the last combustion engine vehicle that we will have. Everything in the future will be EV, whether it was SUVs, sedans, or sports cars. Within 18 months, we will have more electric cars than any other car manufacturer.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER PLANS FOR ADAMAS IN BAHRAIN? I’m a great believer in perfecting what you have on your hands before moving on to the next challenge. We have operations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Hong Kong, all of which I feel are performing at peak capability. Now, the time has come for us to focus on Bahrain and ensure that achieves that same level of performance. With the guidance of George Duncan, our Group Country Manager, and the many talents we have on our team, I’m confident that we will achieve that objective as well. adamasmotors.com

September 2021

01, 04 The showroom at Moda Mall 02 Adamas Chairman and CEO, Karl Hamer

“I’m a great believer in perfecting what you

have on your hands before moving on to the next challenge. ”

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03, 05, 06 The automotive brands on display

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September 2021

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September 2021

UNPARALLELED Experiences Exploring the world of a luxury automotive leader and BMW’s electrification goals with Euro Motors General Manager, David McGoldrick.

DO YOU THINK THAT THE MARKETS HAVE RECOVERED FROM THE EFFECTS OF COVID-19? WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING THE AUTO INDUSTRY AFTER THE PANDEMIC?

brands. We invest heavily in training and technology to enable our staff to deliver consistently enjoyable experiences to our customers.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE AFTERSALES EXPERIENCE AT EURO MOTORS?

The Automotive industry, like most of the retail sector, is in a period of recovery. By far, the biggest issue the automotive industry faces postcovid-19 is one of supply. The worldwide shortage of semiconductors has affected the production of Luxury Vehicles due to the advanced technologies incorporated in them. We are working closely with our brand partners and customers during this period as we manage our order portfolios into 2022.

We actively encourage our customers to engage with us before, during and after their service visit. We offer online service bookings, personalized videos of your car during its service visit, and post-service follow up from our Customer Relationship Team. Our customer feedback is very positive and Euro Motors ranks as one of the best After-sales departments in the region as voted by our customers.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST BMW LAUNCHES ANTICIPATED?

WHERE DOES BMW STAND IN TERMS OF ELECTRIC CARS?

We are very excited about the launch of the all-new BMW 4 Series Grand Coupe. This model was very successful and in high demand even during the run-out phase of the last model. We are also working hard to bring the next generation of BMW Electric Vehicles to Bahrain with the iX and i4 models later this year.

BMW is at the forefront of Electric Vehicle Technology. BMW Group has several PHEV and BEV vehicles within its range that will arrive in Bahrain soon.

WHAT SETS THE EURO MOTORS BRAND APART FROM THE COMPETITION? I believe our sales and service experience is what sets us apart. We operate in a very competitive sector offering the world’s most exclusive automotive

WHAT IS THE LONG-TERM VISION FOR EURO MOTORS? Our vision is to remain the Number One Supplier of Luxury Automotive Products and Services in Bahrain by delivering unparalleled customer service and experiences. euromotors.com.bh

“Our vision is to remain the Number One

Supplier of Luxury Automotive Products and Services in Bahrain by delivering unparalleled customer service and experiences”

01 Euro Motors General Manager, David McGoldrick 02 Alongside cars, BMW manufactures sleek and powerful motorbikes 03 MINI is another iconic marque owned by the BMW Group 04 The BMW showroom

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September 2021

AUTOMOTIVE Purity

Al Haddad Motors General Manager, Warren Hudson reveals the Mercedes-Benz vision for the Middle East and the future plans of one of the world’s most prestigious automotive marques.

AL HADDAD RECENTLY LAUNCHED THE MERCEDES-BENZ ECOMMERCE PLATFORM. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THAT? HOW DOES IT IMPROVE CLIENT EXPERIENCE? The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz E-Commerce platform has been received very positively by our customers. It provides another form of communication between the business and the customer, and with the acceleration of the digital revolution as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, its timing is excellent. The platform also provides the customers with the ability to make an informed decision about their interests and purchases, all from the comfort of their homes.

WHAT ARE MERCEDES-BENZ’ PLANS FOR ELECTRIC CARS? AND HOW DOES BAHRAIN FIT INTO THOSE PLANS FOR THIS REGION? Mercedes-Benz’s vision is to achieve all electric production by 2030. With that vision in mind, Mercedes-Benz has introduced two completely electric vehicles the Mercedes-Benz EQC and the luxurious Mercedes-Benz EQS with several other models to follow. Bahrain has started the initiative to facilitate all-electric vehicles with some charging stations at prominent locations around Bahrain. AHM and Daimler AG are working closely with the Government to reach import regulations for EV as soon as possible.

WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THAT DEFINE THE MERCEDES-BENZ BRAND? The Mercedes-Benz brand is renowned for its luxuriousness and comfort. The Mercedes-Benz merges the traditional and the modern when designing future models. Mercedes-Benz has coined the term ‘Sensual Purity’ as the expression of modern

luxury, which essentially means creating clear forms and sensual surfaces by reducing edges and indentations. The design not only has to be beautiful, but it also intelligent. Extraordinary designs contribute to shaping the brand’s identity and image.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST-SELLING MERCEDES-BENZ MODEL IN THE KINGDOM IN RECENT YEARS? One of the most popular models in Bahrain has been the brands’ iconic flagship, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The S-Class is recognized as a symbol of success and epitomizes the definition of luxury. Some of the other popular models include the MercedesBenz C-Class. The C-Class stands above other vehicles in its class as it features top-of-the-line technologies, comfort, and luxury. The all-new C Class launches in Bahrain in Q4 2021.

HAVE THE GLOBAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IMPACTED THE BRAND IN ANY WAY? IF SO, HOW DID MERCEDES-BENZ COUNTER THOSE EFFECTS? As most of the world went into lockdown, the automotive industry was hit with a delay in manufacturing and thus the supply chain. This has resulted in a reduction in the supply chain in general, particularly supply to the production lines. Unfortunately, this is now starting to impact parts’ supply as stocks at source start to reduce, in terms of actual components, shipping, airfreight times, and even availabilities. Al Haddad Motors has been able to substantially decrease the impact of the global pandemic on business, remaining relatively stable in terms of supply and demand across all our revenue streams in an otherwise unstable environment.

YOU’VE HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING THROUGHOUT THE GCC. HOW WOULD YOU COMPARE BAHRAIN’S MARKET TO THOSE OF ITS NEIGHBORS? I personally see Bahrain as a less volatile business environment. By that, I refer particularly to a more stable work force and local business development, as there are fewer outside influences changing the market requirements. This allows for a more stable business focus and enables companies to improve facilities and services knowing there are unlikely to be large swings in preference.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ARE THE QUALITIES A MANAGER NEEDS IN ORDER TO BE A LEADER IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY? The modern-day manager needs, of course, to have a fundamental understanding of business administration and management. However, my personal focus is on human resource development, equality, and diversity. Our staff is the life blood of our business. Without human development and autonomy, there will be no business growth. Even if you achieve some profits, it won’t be true business growth. This is why we concentrate on, and take care of, our team’s personal growth. It’s their role to take care of our customers.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MERCEDES-BENZ MODEL? Yes, but as the Mercedes brand continues to break new design concepts year after year, this is continually changing my opinion. But I would still like to get my hands on Lewis Hamilton’s car for a few hours!

“The Mercedes-Benz merges the traditional and the modern when designing future models.” GOING FORWARD, WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT NEXT FROM MERCEDES-BENZ? Mercedes-Benz has always been a leader in the automotive industry thanks to the constant innovation and creativity in technology, design, luxury, and comfort. The future of Mercedes-Benz is in using renewable energy sources to create sustainable and luxurious vehicles for the planet, which means a better future for our families. After this comes safety innovations that will encompass more autonomous driving controls, and an interactive and personalized experience. alhaddadmotor.com

01 Al Haddad Motors General Manager, Warren Hudson

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September 2021

INSPIRING Greatness

Exploring the ever-innovative universe of one of the world’s most prestigious automobile makes with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director Middle East & Africa, César Habib.

THE BOAT TAIL IS DUBBED THE MOST EXPENSIVE CAR IN THE WORLD. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT ITS FEATURES AND WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE? Boat Tail is certainly Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ most ambitious project yet. The story behind it and everything in it makes it a unique artwork. Working in collaboration with clients, we have ignored all preconceived notions of possibility and set new benchmarks in luxury coachbuilt cars. Coachbuild is differentiated by its nature; every design is unique and is quite literally the physical embodiment of a client’s character and a distillation of their utmost self. Boat Tail is no different. The Boat Tail is unique to any other car in the world, even through minute details. A preservation of time, the car contains two-sided timepieces, one for the lady and one for the gentleman. The piece de resistance of the Boat Tail is the sweeping deck, which opens to reveal an intricate hosting suite, inclusive of a whimsical parasol. Revealing itself in a butterfly gesture, it houses a double refrigerator, complete with the clients’ favourite vintage bottle, rapidly cooled to precisely six degrees, the optimum serving temperature. ‘Boat Tail’ represents a collaborative exploration of luxury, design and culture between the marque and commissioning clients.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE CULLINAN? HOW WAS IT RECEIVED BY MIDDLE EASTERN CLIENTS SO FAR? As the first all-terrain SUV from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Cullinan is an emblem of freedom, it was received overwhelmingly well globally not only in our Middle Eastern markets; the booking order are very well stretched until 2022. Its spacious

interior accommodates multiple travelers, as they conquer epic landscapes, from highlands to deserts. Its unique aluminum spaceframe promises the marque’s signature magic carpet ride, with a driving experience that is completely unmatched. Cullinan is effortless everywhere. With its tilting, retractable sunroof, clients can gaze at the panorama of the skyline, they can also enjoy the viewing suite, complete with leather-finish seats and cocktail table, all deployed by the touch of a button. The Cullinan is supreme luxury at its finest, making it ideal for our customers in the GCC.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVANCED OR CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY EVER INCORPORATED INTO A ROLLS-ROYCE MODEL? Cutting-edge technology can be found in all Rolls-Royce motor cars but as you know, the New Ghost is the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet, it Reflects ‘Post Opulent’ design philosophy. For example, the world’s first Planar Suspension System was developed by the marque’s engineers to isolate wheel vibration, resulting in a silkened driving experience. The all-wheel drive boasts superior driving capability with newfound versatility. While riding at 70kph, the all-wheel steering counter takes control with maneuverability, while above 70kph, the wheels co-steer impressively. Rolls-Royce clients have enjoyed self-closing doors since the first Goodwood Phantom. Operated by a button on the dashboard and on the back for motor cars with rear doors, this innovation has been celebrated among customers. For new Ghost, the marque’s engineers elected to further develop this hallmark technology and, for

the first time, clients can now also open the doors with power assistance. The list of cutting-edge technology keeps going but what is interesting with Rolls-Royce Ghost is you don’t see all these technologies, that’s why the new Ghost doesn’t shout its technologies, it whispers them.

HOW SIGNIFICANT IS THE MIDDLE EAST MARKET TO THE GLOBAL ROLLS-ROYCE OPERATIONS? The Middle East market is pivotal in global RollsRoyce operations for its appreciation of service and dedication. We truly appreciate our Middle Eastern customers as well as our dealer partners, as they represent the pinnacle of who the Rolls-Royce client is. One who seeks the world of Bespoke, who holds unique vision and strives for greatness.

WHAT IS THE CLIENT PROFILE OF ROLLSROYCE IS IN THE MIDDLE EAST? WHO CONNECTS THE MOST WITH THE BRAND? Our clients around the world all share an appreciation for originality and celebrate refinement. Our clients in the Middle East fit this same profile, with an added essence of luxury. The Rolls-Royce client dares to be unique and seeks vision and individuality in their design. Our clients may differ in demographics, but their mindset and what they regard as important are the same: they want luxury and unique experience. They want to be proud of what they own. In short - there’s not a big difference. They’re very, very, similar. Their Rolls-Royce is an emblem of expression, customized to their specific needs, desires and tastes. It is a reflection of themselves, crafted to perfection.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE FUTURE OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY? AND WHERE DOES ROLLS-ROYCE FIT IN THAT VISION? The automotive industry is consistently transforming and adapting but remains forever rooted in tradition. Rolls-Royce’s heritage of luxury and an intimate experience will stay a constant focus for us in the future, as our clients can always expect the best. Customer Centricity will continue to rise and stay a focus for us at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. In these unprecedented times, relationships and human connection are more important now than ever, and that is a trend that Rolls-Royce reflects throughout its DNA. Our customers are always our most important focus, alongside highquality offerings. This is why we have seen a rise in our Bespoke commissions. rolls-roycemotorcars.com

01 Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director Middle East & Africa, César Habib

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The World’s Finest Launched in 2014 by Talal Al Rajab, Seven Car Lounge offers an unparalleled collection of exotic cars and services for the discerning automotive enthusiast. A true haven for exclusive car collectors, it also offers global vehicle logistics, restoration, photography, and have an elite lounge for clients and consultancy services. 02

01 A collection of classic cars 02 Seven Cars Lounge founder, Talal Al Rajab 03 Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, visiting the Riyadh Car Show

Some of the most notable cars that have been presented by the Lounge include an all-new Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, a Mercedes S63 coupe with a unique color combination, the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, a one-of-a-kind Lamborghini Urus with stunning combination of “Marrone Alcestis” and a beautiful beige, and the Lamborghini Veneno Roadster, the only one of its kind in Saudi Arabia and one of only 9 ever produced. Seven Car Lounge is actively involved in major car shows, organizing the Riyadh Car Show 2019, where the Seven Concours ward displayed some of the Lounge’s finest possessions. The Car Show received over 100,000 visitors and was attended by Saudi Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, which helped Seven Car Lounge reach a wide audience and further establish itself as one of Saudi’s most prestigious car collectors. The event also contained several other wards, showcasing many classic automobiles and Ferrari racing cars. In addition, the Car Show hosted an exotic car auction, the first of its kind in the GCC, in partnership with UK-based Silverstone Auctions. sevencarlounge.com

September 2021

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September 2021

“Seven Car Lounge is actively involved in major

car shows, organizing the Riyadh Car Show 2019.”

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04, 05, 06, 07 Highlights from the Riyadh Car Show

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September 2021

Top Taste

Director of Content at 50 Best, William Drew reveals how the newly launched ‘MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants’ will create a positive impact on the region’s dining scene and how 50 Best is supporting restaurants during the pandemic.

WHAT WAS THE DRIVING FORCE WHICH LED TO THE LAUNCH OF THE MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS LIST? Following the success of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, both of which debuted back in 2013, we have felt for some years that we should be shining a brighter spotlight on another region that has perhaps not had the global culinary recognition it deserves, namely the Middle East and North Africa.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES THE CULINARY LANDSCAPE IN THE MENA REGION SO EXCITING? Its diversity, and its relatively low profile on the international dining scene. The MENA region’s rich and delicious culinary portfolio will gain some of the global attention it surely deserves. The range of ingredients, spices, traditions, techniques, influences and talent across this vast expanse of land is there to be explored, whether from within the region itself or from further afield, as travel begins to open up again come 2022.

WHAT IMPACT DO YOU EXPECT THE LIST TO HAVE ON THE REGION’S RESTAURANT INDUSTRY?

We believe this launch can only be positive for the region’s gastronomic community and travel and hospitality economies. The list and events surrounding it bring people together in a spirit of celebration and collaboration, raising the bar, inspiring new ideas and generating buzz around the restaurant sector.

restaurant experiences of any kind of the previous 24 months. There are no voting criteria but there are strict voting rules. Voters must remain anonymous - aside from the six regional Academy Chairs who have helped identify and recruit these well-traveled food lovers. The list is a computation of those votes cast.

WHAT TRENDS HAVE YOU OBSERVED IN THE RESTAURANT BUSINESS IN THIS REGION, AND WHAT DEVELOPMENTS are YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO?

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE IT ONTO THE 50 BEST RESTAURANTS LIST? WHAT CRITERIA ARE THE RESTAURANTS JUDGED ON?

I cannot (yet) claim to be an expert in the restaurant business of the region, but I’m sure we will see more respect given to local ingredients and culinary traditions, while innovating and updating at the same time. I think there will be less correlation between ‘fine dining’ and traditional European cuisines – and more of a focus on premium dining experiences, which may be more casual but no less professional.

There are no criteria. We simply ask the voters to select their best restaurant experiences – of any kind - in the region during the specified voting period (in this case, stretching back two years due to travel restrictions created by the pandemic). It’s up to each well-trusted expert to decide on their own criteria as to what makes a restaurant one of the ‘best’. Voters cannot vote for restaurants in which they have a financial or business interest, of course. And restaurants cannot apply to be on the list. In our experience, the restaurants that do make it onto the list are not those that are actively trying to do so, but those that delight their customers – whether through the trusted consistency of their hospitality and food or the inventive surprises of their dishes and the dining experience.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE VOTING PROCESS BY WHICH WINNERS ARE SELECTED? The list is the result of the votes of 250 experts from across the MENA region, spanning 19 countries. The voters each select their 7 best

“The MENA region’s rich and

delicious culinary portfolio will gain some of the global attention it surely deserves.”

01 Director of Content at 50 Best, William Drew

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02, 03, 04, 05 Some of the delectable dishes featured by 50 Best

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APART FROM THE 50 BEST RESTAURANTS, WHAT OTHER SPECIAL AWARDS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT THE CEREMONY? We will announce a series of special awards including Middle East & North Africa’s Best Female Chef, the MENA Icon Award, the Art of Hospitality Award, the One To Watch award (for a rising star restaurant in the region) and Middle East & North Africa’s Best Pastry Chef. The list will also be revealed as a countdown, culminating in the announcement of The Best Restaurant in the Middle East & North Africa, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna.

key issues around food and restaurants, and their role in society, as part of a vibrant, interactive and thought-provoking event. Stay tuned to 50 Best’s social channels for more details.

WHAT WERE THE MOST NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE 50 BEST FOR RECOVERY PROGRAMME IN 2020?

WHAT CAN ATTENDEES EXPECT FROM THE #50BESTTALKS THOUGHT LEADERSHIP FORUM THIS YEAR?

Through the 50 Best for Recovery programme, we raised $1.29m which was distributed to restaurants and bars in need, as well as to nonprofit organisations working to feed and support the sector and those most in need. 50 Best also sought to support restaurants by providing information, support and - where appropriate – promotion for restaurant businesses. This support is ongoing.

We are working on the topic and format for #50BestTalks, but we will address some of the

theworlds50best.com

September 2021

PEACE OF MIND IN ONE PACKAGE. BMW SERVICE & REPAIR INCLUSIVE, STANDARD FOR 5 YEARS WITH THE 8.

Worrying about servicing your car is a thing of the past. With BMW Service Inclusive standard on The 8, you can enjoy total peace of mind and focus on what really matters – the joy of driving. Take advantage of our BMW Service Inclusive package for 5 years or 100,000km (whichever comes first), and BMW Repair Inclusive package for 5 years or 200,000km (whichever comes first), at an attractive, all-inclusive price. For more information, call 17 750 750 or visit Euro Motors showroom today. Terms and conditions apply. Not applicable for corporate customers.

810 Sh. Jaber Al Ahmed Al Subah Highway, Al Hamriya 611, Sitra, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: 17 750750, website: bmw-bahrain.com

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September 2021

Epitome of LUXURY Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, one of the world’s most iconic palace hotels, is writing a new page in its history and the crown jewel of the hotel’s metamorphosis is the creation of Suite Prince Rainier III, the largest suite in Hôtel de Paris MonteCarlo in terms of interior space.

Inaugurated by H.S.H Prince Albert II of Monaco and H.S.H Princess Stephanie of Monaco, this exceptional suite pays tribute to the “Prince builder” to whom Monaco owes its transformation into a leading luxury destination and follows the revelation of the Hotel’s Suite Princess Grace. To complete the transformation that was initiated in 2014, Hôtel de Paris MonteCarlo reunites the Principality’s most iconic couple – Princess Grace and Prince Rainier. Suite Princess Grace, inspired by the timeless elegance of Grace of Monaco, is now joined by Suite Prince Rainier III, the largest suite in the hotel in terms of interior spaces, with 600 m² of refined luxury. This rooftop Suite is a unique creation with an additional 135 m² of exterior space offering breath-taking views over the mythical Place du Casino. The Sovereign Prince of Monaco, Prince Rainier III, who reigned for 56 years, loved and respected by the people, left his mark on Monaco at so many levels: economic, political, social, educational, scientific, sport, cultural. Under his guidance, Monaco experienced a period of unprecedented expansion, including its admission as a Member State into the United Nations in 1993. Today, the Principality is a dream destination for people the world over. Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo held a special place in the life of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace.

In 1956, their wedding breakfast was served at the hotel; 20 years later, they celebrated their wedding anniversary there; and in 1974, Prince Rainier celebrated the 25th year of his reign at the hotel with great pomp. Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo now pays tribute to Prince Rainier, giving his name to this new, exceptional Suite that harmoniously combines the classical luxury of noble and precious materials with contemporary design, creating a space that is light and cozy with clean lines and a warm atmosphere. Designed by Richard Martinet, the Suite has been created using the best in French and Italian craftsmanship: straw marquetry; leather headboards; textured paints and decorative elements made in the workshops of artisans. The lights were also specially created for the Suite from original designs. Photos, paintings, and some of Prince Rainier’s personal effects add a personal and intimate feel to the Suite. Sculptures by the Sovereign provide the final flourish to the interiors scheme, creating a unique experience in the heart of the Principality. The 525 m² Suite Prince Rainier III includes two bedrooms, a large main lounge with a bar area, a smaller lounge and a library, a dining room and an office space. It can be extended to 600 m² with a third connecting room. Each bedroom has a private bathroom with a steam room shower, a blend of brightness, marble and transparency. The Suite also

contains a glass-walled sauna that opens onto the Mediterranean sky. The Suite opens onto a superb 135 m² splitlevel terrace overlooking Place du Casino. The first level is home to a heated infinity edge swimming pool measuring 10m x 3.70m. The pool is framed on either side by a staircase that leads to the lower level terrace offering unrivalled views over Place du Casino and from where guests can enjoy the permanent show that is the vibrant heart of Monaco… without being seen! An excellent location from which to experience the thrill of Monaco’s annual F1 Grand Prix in May. The Suite offers a set of tailor-made luxury services provided by a dedicated team of private Clefs d’Or concierges at the entire disposal of guests of the Suite. Valets, housekeepers, cooks, sommeliers and maîtres d’hôtel are also committed to making the Hôtel de Paris MonteCarlo experience totally unforgettable. Each guest is welcomed at the airport or heliport, with welcome gifts and personalized touches. Guests also have access to bespoke treatments at the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo in winter and a beachfront tent on Monte-Carlo Beach in summer. Suite Prince Rainier III is available on request, at a rate of €35,000 / €45,000 per night depending on the season. montecarlosbm.com/en/hotel-monaco/hotelparis-monte-carlo

01 The luxurious Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

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02, 04 The Suite Princess Grace 03 Spacious and comfy suite bedrooms

September 2021

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“An expression of art that inspires like no other.”

September 2021

The Sixth Sense

Sixième Sens par Cartier showcases that extra touch of soul unique to High Jewelry, an expression of art that inspires like no other.

An exquisite creation, the Phaan Ring’s architecture is a tiered construction, allowing a 4.01 carat rose-cut diamond to be inserted directly below the magnificent stone that sits at the top. When the light hits the diamond after first passing through the ruby, its rich red hue is intensified. The structure integrates groups of triangular diamonds while maintaining the ring’s airy appearance. Along with tiny ruby balls, diamonds surround the central stone, arranged with subtle openings to allow them to catch the light, illuminating the ruby. Diamond, onyx, and rock crystal create a hypnotic checkerboard pattern on the Meride Necklace that appears to be in perpetual motion. The purity of the motif is also its strength. The

01 Sharkara Necklace, white gold, pink tourmalines, garnets, coloured sapphires, diamonds 02 Phaan Ring, platinum, rubies, diamonds 03 Pixelage Necklace, yellow gold, topazes, onyx, coloured diamonds, diamonds

stones appear to multiply ad infinitum an optical illusion that is made all the more striking by the relief of the piece as each element is mounted at a different level. Movement, rhythm, and all spatial and temporal references are lost in a precious mosaic of gemstones. The blurring of perspective is complemented by a play of materials and light between mirror-polished metal and graphic black onyx. As always with Cartier, particular attention has been paid to the back of the piece, which reveals the exact reverse of the front. The Pixelage Necklace brings to mind the panther’s cherished and familiar image by using its coat as a motif of symbolic power. It conjures up the familiar image of the panther, so dear to

JEWELLERY

Cartier, borrowing both its markings and symbolic power. A stylized play on the feline’s coat has been part of Cartier’s artistic bestiary since 1914. Faithful to the original stylization, here, motifs make up the panther’s spots. Polished onyxes evoke the marbling of the fur, while white, yellow and orange diamonds represent the thickness of the pelt, with its golden reflections highlighted by three captivating golden topazes for a total of 27.34 carats. Attention to the volume and articulation of the sides allows the construction to respect the vertical geometry of the collar, while preserving its flexibility. It’s impossible to resist the magnetism of the Parhelia Ring, which blurs lines and plays games on visual perceptions. At its center lies a 21.51-carat sapphire cabochon, with an intense blue hue which seems to glow from within. Around it, five parentheses of radiant diamonds and emeralds reflect the light, fanning out like the surface of a lake. Black lacquer creates shadow effects to reinforce the impression of movement, supported by the original width of the ring, which spans three fingers, with slightly mobile tips. As an ultimate refinement, the motif can be detached and worn as a brooch. Created at the very beginning of the 20th century, this combination of sapphires and emeralds, named the “peacock motif” by Louis Cartier, is part of the Maison’s emblematic color palette.

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cartier.com

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04 Meride Necklace, white gold, onyx, rock crystal, diamonds 05 Parhelia Ring, platinum, sapphire, emeralds, black lacquer, diamonds 06 Alaxoa Necklace, platinum, emeralds, diamonds 07 Coruscant Necklace, platinum, diamonds

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“A creative universe whose texture

and density unfold in the dazzling landscape of her imagination.”

01 Red Carpet necklace in ethical Fairmined-certified 18-carat white gold with an emerald cabochon (112.27 cts), and set with round-shaped, pear-shaped and marquise-cut diamonds totaling (116.81 cts) 02 Red Carpet earrings in ethical Fairmined-certified 18-carat white gold set with two heartshaped emeralds and diamonds of various cuts

September 2021

A Jewellery of Paradise

For the Cannes Festival, which Chopard has been officially partnering with since 1998, the Maison’s workshops annually rise to a new pinnacle of creativity by reinventing the miracle of the Red Carpet Collection.

It is a uniquely magical moment, the most glamorous event of the year. A stunning demonstration of jewellery-making prowess lighting up a lifelong passion for the cinema and paying tribute to the actresses who embody its radiant energy during the legendary ascent of the staircase. With the opening of the Cannes Festival on 6 July 2021, Chopard’s Co-President and Artistic Director, Caroline Scheufele, unveiled all 74 creations composing this collection, themed around a fabulous haven of fantasy. Paradise expresses all the dreamy richness of which Caroline Scheufele is capable, flinging wide open the doors to the palaces of the imagination. Each piece of jewellery stems from an emotion, each culminating from an idea in a creation. Then comes the sketch, the mosaic

of precious stones, colors like destinations, and a wild desire to share. A creative universe whose texture and density unfold in the dazzling landscape of her imagination. Like a director, this keen film-lover orchestrates each of her collections around a real narrative, a master canvas within which her creations come to life and give substance to her vision. The Paradise-themed Red Carpet Collection 2021 takes us into a universe dear to the Maison: that of unspoilt, generous and sublime nature. A dreamlike and fertile place, permanently accessible to everyone, free to imagine its contours and to go there to recharge their batteries as they please. A ‘Paradise’ to be found within oneself, according to one’s imagination and desires. A realm of all possibilities.

When instilling a baroque, fanciful spirit into the Collection, Caroline Scheufele drew inspiration from the lush nature of the mythological or real places populating her fantasy repertoire. A bountiful Garden of Eden, where precious stones are picked like berries, where plants and animals offer their songs and spectacular colours; a secret landmark, like the island of Pantelleria, where the telluric depth of the volcanic rocks is reflected in the crystalline transparency of the waters where Caroline Scheufele loves to immerse her gaze; or a supernatural, vision of nature resembling that of the fantasy film Avatar, a metaphorical space in which to find refuge, to escape the hostility of reality and to find a new lease on life. chopard.com

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03 Norwegian fashion model Frida Aasen wearing Chopard 04 Red Carpet cuff bracelet in ethical Fairmined-certified 18-carat white gold, titanium and silver set with tsavorites (61.90cts), pastel sapphires (27.72cts), tourmalines (25.60cts), tanzanites (25.60cts), diamonds (14.27cts), white opals (13.60cts) and amethysts (10.90cts) 05 Red Carpet rose ring in ethical Fairmined-certified 18-carat white gold and titanium set round-shaped sapphires (22.91cts), fancy intense yellow, white and black diamonds, as well as onyx cabochons.

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06 Red Carpet Jewellery watch in ethical Fairmined-certified 18-carat white gold set with diamonds of various cuts (totaling 41.4cts) 07 Tunisian actress Dorra Zarouk wearing Chopard

September 2021

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Beauty and Creativity Past Forward, the second collection by Bespoke luxury jewelry brand OUSHK, reminds us to cherish every moment in time.

Past Forward features just over 10 jewelry pieces composed of necklaces, rings, earpieces and a bracelet in 18-Karat gold and VS clarity diamonds. It offers must-have pieces for every occasion and is the perfect accent to both daytime and evening looks. Each piece from the collection can be combined and layered in different ways to create a completely personal look. Omani-based jewelry designer and founder, Areej Al-Saleh describes Past Forward as an extremely personal collection and a way to pay homage to tradition while transporting it to modern times. “Our future is not about re-writing our past. Our past lessons test our resilience to handle our present and shape the foundation of our future,” says Al-Saleh. “Just like a tape recorder, the past year has forced us to pause and reflect, often rewinding to understand our past or fast forwarding to an unknown future impatient to know what it holds.” She added, “Life is ephemeral, and we need to cherish every

moment in time, the past, present and what the future may hold.” Past Forward comes following the successful launch of OUSHK’s debut collection entitled “XO” in August of last year. All OUSHK jewelry is made to order and can be customized to suit your needs. OUSHK is a sophisticated and contemporary bespoke jewelry brand born out of the desire to liberate and empower self-confidence. A celebration of individuality and femininity, each piece is made of 18-Karat gold and VS clarity diamonds, handcrafted with passion and uncompromising quality and innovation. Strikingly elegant, OUSHK is also about contrasts fusing the classic with the modern, the traditional with the avant-garde, the delicate with the strong, the romantic with the pragmatic, the dark with the light. oushkjewelry.com

September 2021

01 OUSHK founder, Areej Al-Saleh 02 Strikingly elegant jewellery

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03, 04, 05 The exquisite Past Forward collection

“Life is ephemeral, and we need to cherish every

moment in time, the past, present and what the future may hold. ”

September 2021

FES518 Event Hall in Barbar can be easily transformed from a Wedding Hall to a Yoga studio. It is the most wonderful space to practice the art of yoga. For further inquires regarding Wedding and Event planning or yoga follow us on : Instagram @FES518 OR contact us Tel: 17795090

Watsapp: 33352922

Email: fes518.event@gmail.com

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HIGH JE W ELLERY Al Zain unveils its High Jewellery designs, inspired by the extraordinary allure of Arabian heritage. Beyond the horizon of Al Zain’s High Jewellery lies a world of magic. Al Zain introduces timeless designs that shape an abundant future brimming with imagination, fantasy and wonder. True works of ar t standing the test of time and embracing a legacy of timeless heritage. Each creation embodies generations of architectural inspiration, masterful techniques and innovative vision. With the new High Jewellery collections, Al Zain reinvigorates the Arabian spirit through skilled craftsmanship and pure imagination. Explore Al Zain’s magical garden of wonder.

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 2.62c t. DIAMOND & 62.84c t. EMER ALD NECKLACE 73gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 15.07c t. DIAMOND NECKLACE 67gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 11.93c t. DIAMOND NECKLACE 95.47gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 2.28c t. DIAMOND EARRINGS 12.16gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 7.02c t. DIAMOND NECKLACE 53.12gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 9.95c t. DIAMOND BR ACELET 48.38gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 41.63c t. DIAMOND NECKLACE 163.86gm. 18K WHITE GOLD

AL ZAIN HIGH JEWELLERY 2021 187.38c t. TR ANSFORMABLE NATUR AL PEARL & 16.69c t. DIAMOND NECKLACE 77.27gm. 18K GOLD

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HIGH JE W ELLERY An exhibition revealing high jeweller y collec tions of superla tive ar tisanship where each piece tells a s tor y. For more infor ma tion on the exhibition, or to book a priva te viewing, visit the below website or scan the QR code: w w w.alzainjeweller y.com

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September 2021

Vacheron Constantin High Watchmaking

The first known traces of the tourbillon’s commercialization found in Vacheron Constantin’s archives date back to 1901. Since then, this complication has become part of the Maison’s watchmaking heritage, integrated into pocket watches, then wristwatches from the early 1990s, as well as into exceptional pieces intended for connoisseurs and collectors.

Invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet at the beginning of the 19th century, the tourbillon’s primary function is to counteract the effects of gravity on watch mechanisms. This device is a symbol of technical mastery and craftsmanship. Few watchmakers tried their hand at the tourbillon during the 19th century and the quantities produced remained extremely modest. As a regulating organ, however, this mechanism proved itself sufficiently well for it to be taken into consideration not only for so-called chronometry watches, in search of absolute precision, but also as the component of choice for Grand Complication models. Vacheron Constantin has distinguished itself in both these fields with its perfect mastery of this complex watchmaking mechanism.

watches incorporating a tourbillon as the only “complication” – regarded as an additional guarantee of accuracy in time measurement. At the end of the 1980s, Vacheron Constantin launched two projects to develop new calibers for wristwatches incorporating the legendary complications of the tourbillon and minute repeater. A first piece was produced in 1992, with the 30050 model. The tone was set. From then on, Vacheron Constantin would serve the cause of complicated watches with models in which the tourbillon played an essential role. Today, Vacheron Constantin offers an exquisite range of tourbillon timepieces, each catering to its own unique and sophisticated audience.

The first mention of a tourbillon pocket watch in the Vacheron Constantin archives dates back to 1901. A letter addressed to the Maison relates to an order placed by a Parisian client for a timepiece with a tourbillon escapement, double chronograph, Grande and Petite Sonnerie, minute repeater, perpetual calendar with moon phases and power reserve. In other words, an exceptional timepiece that must also be submitted to the Geneva Observatory in order to obtain its chronometry (precision timekeeping certificate). Since its founding in 1755, Vacheron Constantin had already had the opportunity to demonstrate its expertise in the field of watch complications. From 1872 onwards, the Manufacture regularly entered the various precision competitions organized by the Geneva and Neuchâtel Observatories, as well as those in England and the United States, and its watches regularly won gold medals or first prizes. As early as the 1900s, Vacheron Constantin offered pocket

Overseas Tourbillon Dressed in Pink Gold After a steel version in 2019, this Overseas tourbillon model is attired in 18K 5N pink gold. A tourbillon, a blue lacquered dial with a sunburst satin finish and an interchangeable bracelet/strap system accompany this material that is both refined and modern – two principles deeply cherished by the Maison. This new model, presented at Watches & Wonders 2021, is part of the theme of the Maison for 2021: entitled Classic with a Twist, it highlights Vacheron Constantin’s creative energy, guided by an identity that celebrates a heritage and dares to deliver the unexpected. This new pink gold version highlights more than 265 years of watchmaking tradition passed on from generation to generation within the workshops of the Manufacture. It testifies to the care devoted by the Maison to producing extremely complicated watches with unfailing care for technical detail and reliability – as exemplified in caliber 2160, an ultra-thin tourbillon movement measuring just 5.65 mm thick.

01, 06 Traditionnelle Tourbillon Jewellery 02 Tourbillon pocket watches 03 Overseas Tourbillon Dressed in Pink Gold

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Traditionnelle Tourbillon Chronograph Vacheron Constantin unites two horological complications within the Traditionnelle collection. A modern expression of Geneva’s grand watchmaking tradition, the new Traditionnelle tourbillon chronograph combines the precision of a monopusher chronograph with the sophistication of the tourbillon, a complication single-handedly symbolising the nobility of Haute Horlogerie. Through its ties with centuries of watchmaking culture and its dynamic character, this timepiece pays tribute to mechanical complexity while respecting the Maison’s distinctive aesthetic codes and inherent elegance. “Etagé” case and lugs, a fluted case-back, a railwaytype minute track, dauphine-type hours and minutes hands: the aesthetic codes of the Traditionnelle collection are all clearly present and the model Traditionnelle tourbillon chronograph showcases technical refinement conveyed through eminently horological characteristics. Traditionnelle Tourbillon Jewellery The Traditionnelle collection combines aesthetic refinement and technical sophistication 05

04 The intricate process 05 Traditionnelle Tourbillon Chronograph

in the feminine mode with the very first Vacheron Constantin self-winding tourbillon in a lady’s watch. A gem of horological complexity interpreted as two precious models celebrating mechanical art with great panache. Sculpted in 18 carats white gold, this prestigious timepiece reinterprets the heritage of the Traditionnelle collection through an elegant 39 mm stepped round case, a slender bezel, a fluted caseback and a dial swept over by dauphine-shaped hands. The collection’s characteristic design nonetheless gives way to the flamboyance of diamonds. Bedecked in 559 brilliant-cut and baguettecut diamonds totaling more than 6.5 carats. It highlights the technical sophistication of the tourbillon, whose low frequency makes it possible to admire each rotation. The Traditionnelle tourbillon jewellery comes with a second blue strap in alligator leather and is crafted for demanding women looking for a timepiece that combines precision and style. For demanding women looking for a timepiece that combines precision and style.

September 2021

“A gem of horological complexity

interpreted as two precious models celebrating mechanical art with great panache.”

WATCHES

FiftySix Tourbillon Beautifully slender at less than 6 mm thick and equipped with a 22-carat gold peripheral rotor, the caliber of this model may be observed through a transparent caseback revealing all the beauty of the mechanism with its refined ornamentation. The tourbillon alone called for over a dozen hours of chamfering and other handcrafted finishing operations. Like a metronome, its 2.5 Hz frequency provides a chance to follow its steady beat, framed by a 41 mm-diameter case. On the two-tone opaline-sunburst dial, decoration plays an equally exceptional tune. vacheron-constantin.com

07 FiftySix Tourbillon

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September 2021

WATCHES

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September 2021

01 James Bond star, Daniel Craig 02 OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition

JAMES BOND’S Choice 01

As the highly anticipated 007 film, No Time To Die, is set to reach world-wide audiences, a new OMEGA campaign has been launched to reveal 007’s timepiece in action.

The TVC captures a dramatic montage of clips from James Bond’s latest mission and includes thrilling glimpses of returning 007 characters, including Q and Moneypenny, along with the new “double-O” agent, Nomi. Of course, at the heart of the excitement is the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition. As the new commercial shows, the grade 2 titanium watch proves to be a vital companion and serves Bond with typical quality and style. Although Q has given the watch some signature modifications in No Time To Die, the real-life timepiece is now available to customers with the same inspiration, lightweight design and vintage touches.

The OMEGA Seamaster has been a part of 007’s attire since GoldenEye in 1995, when it was selected as the ultimate watch for Commander Bond. No Time To Die is the official title of the 25th James Bond adventure. The film - from Albert R. Broccoli’s EON Productions, and Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) - is directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga and stars Daniel Craig, who returns for his fifth film as Ian Fleming’s James Bond 007. The film will be released in cinemas from September 30, 2021 in the UK through Universal Pictures International and in the US on October 8, 2021, from Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) via their United Artists Releasing banner. Written by Neal Purvis & Robert Wade (Spectre,

Skyfall), Cary Joji Fukunaga, and Phoebe WallerBridge (Killing Eve, Fleabag), the film will be released globally from September 2021 through Universal Pictures International and MGM via their United Artists Releasing banner. In No Time To Die, Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is shortlived when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. omegawatches.com

“The OMEGA Seamaster has been a part

of 007’s attire since GoldenEye in 1995, when it was selected as the ultimate watch for Commander Bond. ”

WATCHES

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Technique and Style Swiss watchmaker Hublot’s family grows with the addition of four new versions to the MP-09 “Manufacture Piece” collection.

Hublot’s “MP” (Manufacture Piece) represents the spirit of the house... taken to its extremes. These extraordinary creations, which are off the beaten track, are a fusion between technology and aesthetics to form a unique and inseparable whole. It is no longer a matter of form and substance-the form is the substance, and the reverse is also true. MP-09 embodies this vision with a key word: integration. Firstly, that of the case and its queen of complications-the Tourbillon Bi-Axis. The whole challenge of the piece was to create a case with a totally unique shape, all made from curves and corners on two different planes, to present the Tourbillon in a singular way. Then, the integration of all of Hublot’s expertise. As a 100% integrated manufacture, which masters the conception, design, production and assembly of every one of its creations, Hublot can demonstrate all of its creative independence, embodied in the MP-09. After the three initial versions in titanium, King Gold and black 3D carbon, Hublot is continuing the adventure of the MP-09 with not one, but four new versions. What they all have in common is a new 3D carbon case in color. Every word in this description counts: “new”, because of the conception, but above all the method, because machining a case made from a multi-layer composite, such as carbon, is nothing like machining a case made from titanium or gold, which are homogeneous metals. Not to mention, new plans, new tools and new finishings: the MP-09 has a truly ultra-high-tech chassis.

“3D Carbon” is a material that nobody masters like Hublot, which is capable of sculpting it to form curves, angles and inclined planes of a rare complexity, whilst always guaranteeing its water resistance and durability. Carbon also offers the new MP-09 a significant weight saving, accentuating the sensation of a piece with an extreme look and a unique complication... that is as light as a feather on your wrist. Finally, “color”, which is what sets this new MP-09 family apart. It comes in a choice of four: yellow, blue, green and red. Four radically different approaches, with solution-dyed 3D carbon cases that have matching structured rubber straps, hands and hour markers. Sporty, stealthy or flashy, there is one for every taste, but not for everybody: only eight numbered pieces will be made of each version. The new Hublot MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis beats to the rhythm of the HUB9009.H1.RA manual-winding, mechanical caliber with a 5-day power reserve. It is equipped with a bi-axial tourbillon with a full rotation every minute for the first axis and a second rotation every 30 seconds for the second axis. It is this hypnotic and unique double rotation that guided the conception of this inclined case, which shows the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, as part of a new color, 3D carbon architecture, with the middle and back cover in titanium, as well as a double anti-reflective sapphire glass. hublot.com 02

September 2021

01, 02, 03, 04 MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis in various colors

WATCHES

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September 2021

A New Chapter for TAG Heuer Carrera 01

TAG Heuer revisits one of its most iconic collections, the TAG Heuer Carrera, and presents the new generation of a timeless sporty and elegant three-hand watch. As a symbol of TAG Heuer’s sporty spirit, the TAG Heuer Carrera collection’s purest and most elegant watch model has been updated: the TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands. The result is a new collection of 13 pieces whose design reinterprets in a modern style the innate elegance of this timepiece reimagined in four versions: the TAG Heuer Carrera Day Date 41 mm, the TAG Heuer Carrera Twin-Time 41 mm. The TAG Heuer Carrera Date 39 mm and the TAG Heuer Carrera Date 29 mm, all expressing the brand’s undying obsession with readability, since 1963. The TAG Heuer Carrera collection has always been the ultimate showcase for the brand’s fascinating motor racing heritage, and is best known for its timeless, sporty, and elegant chronographs. Since their introduction more than 60 years ago by visionary Jack Heuer, these timepieces, with their smooth, clean lines and perfect proportions, have become instantly recognizable and elevated to the ranks of horological icon.

In 2021, the new TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands collection abides by the same master time philosophy and revisits this rich heritage with a touch of modernity and the same passion for creating timepieces with a striking design that ensures perfect readability for drivers, as well as for all owners of this legendary watch. A commitment that has fueled the company for nearly 100 years. The new-generation TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands collection is presented in a wide range of sizes to fit all uses and tastes. The line consists of 13 references within four sub-collections – from a 29 mm to a 41 mm diameter – all of which incorporate and echo the stylistic codes of the TAG Heuer Carrera Heuer 02 chronographs launched last year. The result is a refined and modern look inspired by the pure style that first made the TAG Heuer Carrera iconic. All references will be offered in a stainless-steel case – twelve on a steel bracelet and one on a leather strap – with the choice of black, blue, white, or silver

dials which feature the new Carrera logo. The steel bracelets are equipped with the brand-new H-shaped links, an innovative design which is even more ergonomic and comfortable on the wrist. The TAG Heuer Carrera in the sizes 39 mm and 41 mm have a Caliber 5 automatic movement and are equipped with a new case with refined lugs. The watches have the new H-shaped bracelet for the steel version and a brown alligator leather strap for the leather version. The dial readability is always a central asset, especially with the bolder hands and refined index integration. The Carrera Date 39 mm is fitted with a date at 6 o’clock, and for the Day Date 41 mm, a thinner date frame has been designed. The TAG Heuer Carrera Twin-Time is equipped with the Caliber 7 automatic movement. The TwinTime version has the new H-shaped bracelet. The dial offers bolder hour and minute hands, and a refined Twin-Time hand tip. The elegant and sporty design is

01 Dial readability is a central asset 02 The dial features bolder hands and refined index integration

“ The new TAG Heuer Carrera Three

Hands collection abides by the same master time philosophy and revisits this rich heritage with a touch of modernity.”

03 The watch has a new H-shaped steel bracelet

highlighted by a new, refined flange in bicolor, silver, and blue to indicate day and night. The TAG Heuer Carrera Date 29 mm, Caliber 9 automatic, has a new case with refined lugs and a new H-shaped bracelet. For better readability, the dial integrates bolder hands and a new refined index, which reflects the light and is inspired by the Carrera’s origins. The 29mm size line also integrates a date at 6’o clock new refined version with diamond indexes. The introduction of the TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands collection marks a new chapter in TAG Heuer’s Carrera history. Pure design, readability, and refinement. The new generation of the Carrera Three Hands is a new interpretation of an iconic watch and a worthy representative of the readability obsession of Jack Heuer. An obsessive quest which is deeply anchored in the brand’s DNA. 02

tagheuer.com

WATCHES

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Insatiable Innovation Founded by Jacob Arabo in 1986, Jacob & Co. creates revolutionary timepieces and exquisite jewelry that have captivated celebrities and notables from the watchmaking world and dazzled on fashion’s red carpets and cover shoots. The recently announced partnership between the internationally renowned contemporary graffiti artist, Alec Monopoly, and the luxury watch and jewelry brand, Jacob & Co., has resulted in the release of the first collaborative timepiece: The Astronomia Alec Monopoly. This piece contains miniature pop characters and images that are staples of Monopoly’s artwork within the iconic Astronomia four-arm vertical movement and its exclusive complications. The watch retails for $600,000 and is limited to nine pieces. This artistic version of the Jacob & Co. Astronomia watch is a collaboration between Monopoly and Jacob Arabo, the founder of the luxury watch and jewelry brand “Inspired by the Impossible.” The two have been friends and admirers of each other’s work for several years. Jacob & Co. is also blazing a new path by being the first jewelry and watchmaking brand to offer a luxury watch NFT. A digital “piece unique”, the Jacob & Co. SF24 Tourbillion timepiece is based on the Epic SF24, which was a groundbreaking travel watch with a patented world time zone display inspired by traditional split-flap timetable displays in airports. The split-flap system lists 24 cities around the world, used as a second time zone. Now it will be a groundbreaking entry into the world of digital assets. Unlike the original Epic SF24, the digital version of this watch will include a functioning tourbillon. In addition, the working split-flap system, instead of showing cities, displays

10 different cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Fantom. In a further refinement of the digital asset, the SF24 NFT will come with a uniquely designed box and certificate, bringing the Jacob & Co. luxury experience to the digital world. A non-fungible token (NFT) is a unit of data on a digital ledger called a blockchain. Each NFT represents a unique digital item, and thus they are not interchangeable. NFTs can represent digital files such as art, audio, video and other forms of creative work. The most famous NFT sale to date was that of digital artist, known as Beeple, whose work, “Everydays: The First 5,000 Days” sold for a world record $69.3 million at Christie’s. However, NFTs are experiencing wide use, ranging from digital houses on Mars selling for $500,000 to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey selling his first-ever tweet for $2.9 million. Another area where Jacob & Co. is pioneering is in the cryptocurrency scene, becoming the first luxury watch and jewelry brand that will accept it as payment. It has partnered with crypto exchange company, CEX.IO, to provide the platform to accept purchases using Bitcoin, Ethereum and other verifiable digital currencies for Jacob & Co.’s bold and innovative offerings, such as the Astronomia and Twin Turbo Furious timepieces and high jewels with exceptional gems and craftsmanship. jacobandco.com

September 2021

01 The Astronomia Alec Monopoly 02 The Jacob & Co. SF24 Tourbillion

MASTERPIECE

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September 2021

Distance Creates

BEAUTY

With her striking glass-composition portraits, artist Isabelle Scheltjens breaks the boundaries of one of the most unique mediums in the art world. Durrah explores the technique, inspirations, and distinctive creations of the Belgian artist. 01 Artist Isabelle Scheltjens with one of her artworks

WHEN DID YOU HAVE YOUR FIRST SPARK OF ARTISTIC PASSION? DID IT START AT A YOUNG AGE? I was a very creative person even as a child and was very interested in art. My parents encouraged me to keep this spark alive by pursuing an artistic education, so I studied at SISA, the Antwerp City Institute for Decorative Arts and Crafts.

EXPLAIN TO US YOUR VERY UNIQUE TECHNIQUE AND HOW MANY YEARS DID IT TAKE YOU TO FEEL LIKE YOU HAD PERFECTED YOUR ART? I first encountered glass as a medium in the studio of my husband Dirk Neefs, who is also an artist and produces magnificent stained-glass windows for churches and monuments. I was immediately inspired, particularly by the colours, and set about exploring. It took years of intense practice and juxtaposing countless of pieces of coloured glass to refine my method and truly master the colour theory. In time, I developed a unique glass-fusing technique, whereby pieces of glass in different colours, sizes and textures are melted together at approximately 800°C to form

a completely new colour from a distance. With this technique, I have been able to achieve striking optical effects, capturing the dance of light and colour in a way that plays on the perceptive ability of the eye and mind of the viewer.

WAS THERE A EUREKA MOMENT WHEN YOU REALIZED YOU HAD A SPECIAL BOND WITH GLASS? After creating my very first work, a portrait of my youngest daughter, I immediately knew that glass was a very rewarding but also a unique material to work with. Since then, I have gone on to produce countless other portraits and participate in exhibitions all across the world.

WHAT ARE THE PROPERTIES OF GLASS THAT MAKE IT AN EFFECTIVE MEDIUM OF ARTISTIC EXPRESSION FOR YOU? Glass is a versatile artistic medium, uniting several contrasting properties which make it a delight to work with - resisting and fragile, transparent and opaque, light and heavy. It is perfect for expressing the ambiguous relationship between distance and proximity, which is a theme I explore heavily in my work.

WHAT ARE THE THEMES OR MESSAGES YOU DEAL WITH WHEN CREATING? ARE YOU ATTRACTED TO CERTAIN TOPICS? The dominant theme of my work is ‘distance creates beauty’ which emphasises the idea that everything looks better from a distance than up close. My portraits require the active participation of the viewer, as they change depending on the viewing position. My art gives shape to the disparity between what something appears to be and what something is. The fragility of glass represents the transition of beauty. Up close, we view an abstract image, seemingly unfinished - a captivating combination of bright colours. When viewed at a distance, our eyes fuse the individual pieces of glass into one solid portrait. The time-consuming and laborious technique is the antithesis to the frantic pace of life in a ‘disposable’ society.

CAN YOU STILL GAIN INSPIRATION FROM HISTORICALLY KNOWN ARTISTS WITH SUCH A UNIQUE MEDIUM? Certainly! my work is inspired by the classical technique of pointillism, which I have adapted and reinvented to create an original and contemporary

MASTERPIECE

style I call ‘neopointillism’. Pointillists used small, distinct dots of pure colour on their canvases, placed in close proximity so that they would blur into new colours. I use a similar technique, using layers of coloured glass. Thousands of pieces of glass are arranged in specific patterns to form the optical impression of a new image featuring intricate detail, lighting, and shadows. The seemingly random forms and colours on the surface of the canvas come together to form a distinct, expressive, tactile image - pointillism reinvented and re-contextualized.

WHICH OF YOUR CREATIONS WAS THE MOST DEMANDING? WHICH TOOK THE LONGEST AND WAS THE HARDEST TO CREATE? My largest work ever measured 2.7 x 2.1 metres and contained more than 50,000 glass cubes, making it one of the most ambitions and time-consuming projects I have ever undertaken. However, it is an intensely satisfying process as I know that I make people happy with my creations and they appreciate the effort. My art has led me to meet and connect with many new and interesting people worldwide.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT NOW? IS THERE A SPECIAL PROJECT CURRENTLY IN THE WORKS? In a world that is changing rapidly, there are always new incentives and challenges. I am working on several projects that won’t see the light until years later. isabellescheltjens.com

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September 2021

04 05

02, 03 Isabelle adopts a unique creative process 04, 05, 06 Some of the artist’s distinctive creations

FRAGRANCES - MEN

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FRESH and Bold

September 2021

An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.

Carolina Herrera VIP 212 Wins 212 VIP WINS evokes the strength and nonconformity of a new generation that doesn’t give up easily. Restless and authentic youngsters like the dream team that Carolina Herrera has brought together for the 212 Heroes launch. Performer and trans rights activist Indya Moore, ‘Riverdale’ multi-talented star KJ Apa, and the sweetest and most natural top model, Taylor Hill, lead the gang. They have conquered the big screen and all the front covers, but behind their images lie inspiring stories of struggle, achievement, and friendship. carolinaherrera.com

Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Giò Profondo Lights Limited Edition ACQUA DI GIÒ PROFONDO LIGHTS Limited Edition takes the original ACQUA DI GIÒ PROFONDO olfactory signature and infuses it with a new life, to reveal an unexplored intensity. This Fougère Aquatic Citrus fragrance captures the essence of a luminous halo as it pierces the mysterious darkness of the ocean, revealing the power of deep waters. Crafted by master perfumer Alberto Morillas (FIRMENICH), who has composed all the ACQUA DI GIÒ fragrances, the fragrance unveils a new strength in chiaroscuro, created via a dazzling and explosive freshness that dives into the force of the ocean. These natural elements collide to highlight an instinctive, multifaceted masculinity. armani.com

Dolce&Gabbana K by Dolce&Gabbana K by Dolce&Gabbana embodies a charismatic and generous spirit. It is a fragrance that inspires and captivates, blazing a trail of lingering masculine seduction. Instantly conjuring the Italian countryside and the Mediterranean midday sun, its warm enveloping embrace evokes the fresh earthy scent of wooded Tuscan hills. The sublime and majestic scent boldly creates a vibrant crescendo of citruses, ignited by fiery aromatics and underpinned by sophisticated and sensual woods. This scent was a collaboration between two renowned perfumers - Daphné Bugey and Nathalie Lorson – each bringing their own quality to the finished fragrance. dolcegabbana.com

Paco Rabanne Phantom The essence of self-confidence fueled by feel-good energies. A futuristic aromatic fragrance born from the clash between luxury craftmanship and new-tech. Using a cutting-edge creative process to select ingredients to make you feel energized, powerfully confident, and sexy. A bold scent with notes of addictive creamy lavender, fusing energizing lemon and sexy woody vanilla. A bold invitation to step outside the ordinary and celebrate life. 1000% feel-good. 1000% Paco Rabanne. pacorabanne.com

Parfums de Marly Akaster This distinguished and charismatic leather fragrance is structured around the Taif rose and Bulgarian rose, enhanced by a bouquet of woody notes (patchouli and oud). An indulgent scent, Akaster reveals a praline note which adds a hint of sensuality. Parfums de Marly creates heady, full-bodied fragrances that provide a feast for the senses. Notes like amber, tobacco, incense, and leather would be too much for summer, but they feel just right in fall. The season calls for decadent gourmands, intoxicating florals, and chypres brimming with woodsy goodness. parfums-de-marly.com

Prada Luna Rossa Ocean Prada Luna Rossa Ocean is the new masculine fragrance from Prada. It has been built on a conviction that with technology as an extension of ourselves, we can push beyond our limits, imagine beyond possibility, and open new horizons. New horizons opened by the modern the modern adventurer. He combines physical and intellectual strength, mastering technology to push the boundaries of the possible, going beyond all limits. Raw yet elegant, the fresh vibrancy of Prada Luna Rossa Ocean lies in where the power of man meets the power of innovation. prada.com

FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

098

Alluring Fragrances

September 2021

An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.

Carolina Herrera VIP 212 Wins 212 VIP WINS fragrances are full of vitality and freshness. The totally vegan formula, with green and citric notes, wraps us in energy and optimism. An unrivaled, energetic statement that captivates from the start, where playful notes of mandarin and pomegranate join forces with the freshness of a vitamin-packed green smoothie. The sweetness of roses and the sophistication of violet leaves and iris blend together in an evocative floral heart, that leads to a sensual base of Queenwood, tonka beans and musk, in an authentic appeal of female empowerment. carolinaherrera.com

Carolina Herrera Very Good Girl Carolina Herrera continues her exploration of contemporary femininity with Very Good Girl, a sumptuous and surprising Eau de Parfum that’s firmly rooted in the same duality that so defines the other fragrances in the Good Girl family. Very Good Girl is a Floral Fruity fragrance. Its aromatic journey starts with the currant, a playfully mischievous wild berry that’s joined by the exotic lychee in a unity of confidence. The result is a floral fragrance that enhances the natural beauty of its raw ingredients, but without forgoing creativity. carolinaherrera.com

Mavroki Daz Every stage of Mavroki’s perfume process is developed by master perfumers to evoke the wearers’ senses and seduce them to uplift their mood while changing their mindset in a positive and lasting manner. The purpose of each fragrance within its collection is to take those who experience it on different journeys, from the fresh and bright days of summer to a sensual aromatic experience, and everywhere in between. Each ingredient is carefully selected to ensure that the resulting bouquet transforms the vision for every perfume from concept to olfactory reality. mavroki.com

Narciso Rodriguez For Her PURE MUSC Presenting for her PURE MUSC eau de parfum absolue, an indulgent new version of the inconic scent. The enveloping olfactory depth of the original musc is enriched with a synthesis of luminous floral notes that are amplified, including new exotic Ylang Ylang notes and increased Jasmine while soft creamy cedar wood adds unexpected mystery. The exquisite black and white bottle is identified with a simple label; a slender black cord is wrapped around the cap and tied to echo the fine artistry of the fragrance within. for her PURE MUSC eau de parfum absolue is exclusively available in 100ml format. narcisorodriguez.com

Parfums de Marly Oriana A gourmand, floral and fruity fragrance designed entirely as a variation on texture. A millefeuille of flaky sweetness, softness, and sensuality. A sparkling and juicy opening of mandarin and Italian bergamot with a joyful orange blossom flower and blackcurrant heart leads to a flimsy delight of marshmallow and airy sweetness of Chantilly cream that are addictive. The ambrette and musk base notes add a carnal touch to the composition. A glowing delight. parfums-de-marly.com

Parfums de Marly Carlisle Carlisle is the embodiment of light. Sunny and radiant, it boasts a warm sandalwood and vanilla accord lifted by a spiced heart of saffron and tonka bean, with an unexpectedly bitter green apple twist. A surprising and explosive alliance with a hint of leather. Parfums de Marly creates heady, full-bodied fragrances that provide a feast for the senses. Notes like amber, tobacco, incense, and leather would be too much for summer, but they feel just right in fall. The season calls for decadent gourmands, intoxicating florals, and chypres brimming with woodsy goodness. parfums-de-marly.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

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September 2021

Cool to be Conscious

Project bYouty is a multifaceted e-commerce platform and community centered around the billion-dollar beauty industry and its most significant investor: the conscious consumer. Having launched with over 80 brands, the digital destination is anchored as the largest conscious beauty destination the Middle East has seen.

Entrusting consumers across the Gulf to live their most fulfilled lives, the Dubai-based destination retails cruelty-free, vegan, organic, halal, sustainable, homegrown, and clean beauty and wellness brands, with cult skincare favorites and new brand discoveries mixed in equal measure. But more than that, Project bYouty is building a community, from the conscious suppliers and talented entrepreneurs to the women and men who are invested in protecting future generations as there is no planet b. Project bYouty is here to inspire, educate and provoke meaningful conversations. “Project bYouty will be the conduit for conversation; conversation I hope will inspire women and men to talk more openly and shop more consciously, the last two years have offered us all a chance to reflect. Now, more than ever I don’t believe anyone presented with an alternative would deliberately shop a brand or use a product they know tests on animals or uses questionable

ingredients let alone does damage one way or another to the environment.” Explains Project bYouty Founder, Amy Wilkinson-Lough, “The GCC is witnessing a premiumization trend within the beauty industry; consumers know what they want but are often overwhelmed by misinformation, unrealistic, heavily filtered imagery, complicated ingredient lists and unnecessarily high price tags. That frustration led me here to all things Project bYouty, a much-needed digital retreat for people in the Middle East, to be able to truly trust a Dubai-born company with an honest ethos and commitment to the environment.” The platform aims to educate women and men on the importance of making informed decisions, what it means to them as individuals, what it means to society and why it is everyone’s responsibility to protect a future generation shifting the mindset of the audience from simply a consumer to a conscious consumer. “Project bYouty goes deeper than skincare and selfcare, the

platform will take the customer on a journey of selfdiscovery: spiritually, emotionally, and physically,” adds Amy. Leading the sphere of identifying niche but most importantly effective beauty and wellness brands, the site has moved heaven and earth to secure exclusive and regional online firsts such as True Skincare, Votary, Mal & Mod, Mara, Augustinus Bader, Algenist, Emma Hardie, Bolt beauty, Hayou, Bynacht, UpCircle, War Paint For Men and many more. All brands on the site have been purposefully curated and have as standard two of the six Project bYouty attributes, cruelty-free being a nonnegotiable facet. With strict protocols in place to upgrade the region’s beauty offering – Project bYouty eliminates the ‘re-seller e-commerce risk’ that so many customers face when buying locally in the Middle East. All products are sourced directly from respective brands, eliminating the typical-to-theregion risk of supplying counterfeit items to the

customers, or purchasing from a ‘re-seller’. Determined to lead the way in reducing unnecessary, oversized packaging Project bYouty not only uses entirely recyclable packaging but so too acid-free tissue paper, printed with soybased inks all of which is FSC certified. Entirely compostable mail bags made from a combination PBAT – a bio-based polymer, and PLA - a combination of regular field corn and wheat straw. The water-activated tape used to hold everything perfectly in place is 100% recycled and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Headquartered in Dubai, U.A.E. with a fully automated warehouse, orders across the GCC will be delivered within 24 hours from checkout with free shipping for orders above AED 250 within the UAE and free shipping for orders above AED 750 across other GCC countries including KSA, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman – cash on delivery will remain an available option. projectbyouty.com

01 Project bYouty Founder, Amy Wilkinson-Lough

BEAUT Y

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September 2021

BEAUTY TRENDS The latest cosmetics from the most luxurious brands for that perfect look.

Tata Harper Tata’s Daily Essentials A six-step regimen to discover all-natural, age-defying skincare, ‘Tata’s Daily Essentials’ is the ideal skincare kit for those on-thego and or travelling to escape the summer heat. The Daily Essentials kit includes a complete, travel-friendly 6 step regimen of Tata Harper’s bestselling cult products, in travel-friendly mini sizes. The kit includes the Regenerating Cleanser, Resurfacing Mask, Rejuvenating Serum, Hydrating Floral Essence, Reparative Moisturiser and Retinoic Nutrient Face Oil. Beyond being a traveller’s dream, the Daily Essentials kit is the ideal way for those who are new to the brand to test and try a range of Tata Harper’s most renowned and well-loved products. Tata Harper Skincare produces highly effective and luxurious anti-aging beauty products that are completely free of synthetic and chemical ingredients. Researched, developed and produced in-house with the world’s most advanced 100% natural ingredients, Tata Harper is committed to creating the most effective skincare products in the world. ounass.com

Wet N Wild Color Icon Bronzer Get that perfect summer glow up with Wet n Wild. The brand’s Color Icon Bronzer is its most popular summer beauty staple. Dermatologically tested, the bronzer is a gel-infused wearing formula that leaves skin looking luminous with a sun-kissed glow. The gel-infused hybrid applies like a cream and sets like a powder adding a natural tan flush when applied to the skin. It is available in four fabulous shades to suit different skin tones. It is the perfect beauty product for those who desire a sun-kissed glow without the hours under sun. It’s also perfect for sculpted and defined looks, and for hiding concerns such as redness, age spots and uneven skin tones. Wet n Wild products are cruelty-free, vegan, and made up of high-performance formulations. namshi.com

Chanel Le Lift Fluide A high-performance mattifying fluid featuring roucou seed extract to refine the look of skin texture, reduce shine and minimize the appearance of pores. The airy formula feels light on skin, but the benefits are powerful. Skin looks smoother and firmer, with a matte finish. chanel.com

Christian Louboutin Abracadabra La Palette The Christian Louboutin beauty lab works its enchantment. The magic formula? Six makeup palettes, a first for Christian Louboutin. Intense and daring, these carefully selected shades suit all complexions and have silky textures that glide on with a single stroke. Choose your palette, then place it inside the red or black signature spiked clutch – it’s refillable in a flash. The collection features three eyeshadow palettes and three highlighter and blush palettes for unlimited creativity. christianlouboutin.com

Guerlain Kiss Kiss Shine Bloom Guerlain presents KISSKISS SHINE BLOOM, the new shine lipstick made of 95% naturallyderived ingredients. When it comes to sensoriality and performance, this innovation makes no compromises; its exceptionally melting texture smooths onto lips lusciously, dressing them in sumptuous color and an unprecedented watery shine. Discover a sensoriality and lasting softness all encapsulated within 24-hour 2 hydrating floral lip care, where naturally derived ingredients work in synergy to care for lips day after day. With its golden case, KISSKISS SHINE BLOOM comes in 20 floral-inspired shades to celebrate nature every day. guerlain.com

Charming Escape Collection Kiko Milano Trade the endless chatter of the city for the gentle, idyllic tempo of country life. Welcome to the KIKO MILANO Charming Escape Collection, inspired by the beauty of nature’s canvas and the true spirit of rural life. The collection is enriched with simple ingredients drawn from the Italian campagna: extracts of nature’s greatest heroes; grape, honey, olives and aromatic herbs gently soothe tired skin, while a palette of earthy tones come to life for face, lips and eyes. The packaging is drawn straight from the ornate décor of an Italian villa, with an antique wallpaper effect that will stand out in any beauty bag. kikocosmetics.com

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Carolina Herrera The Mini Tint Balm Make sure you’re never without your Mini Tint with this eco-friendly refill. Designed to fit easily into the Mini Tint Base, it will keep lips lusciously soft while minimizing waste. This Mini Tint Refill delivers a buildable hint of color and an instant cooling sensation for plump, super-hydrated lips. Ultra-versatile, it can be used alone, as a primer before lipstick, or even on cheeks for a dewy blush. carolinaherrera.com

Guerlain Abeille Royale Advanced Youth Watery Oil The Advanced Youth Watery Oil is the fruit of more than 10 years of research dedicated to honey and its revitalizing powers. Highly effective, it allows the skin to revitalize itself 9 times faster. Skin is visibly plumped-up, smoother and more radiant. Made from 95% naturally derived ingredients, its formula, enriched with efficient microbeads, it works immediately to moisturize the skin without weighing it down. Its surprising texture offers the richness of an oil, the lightness of a lotion and the power of a serum. Its Dynamic BlackBee Repair technology combines the most powerful bee products, selected by Guerlain Research: the exceptional Black Bee honey from Ouessant Island (Brittany, France), enriched with three other honeys from unspoilt islands (Corsica, Ikaria and Åland) and an exclusive royal jelly. The skin looks stronger, healthier, visibly younger. guerlain.com

Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer A silky, second-skin liquid highlighter that creates an instantly dewy, buildable glow while also nourishing skin so it looks on the bright side all day. Its weightless liquid formula blends evenly for an instant wash of light that looks good on all skin tones. Superfine, light-catching pearls make it easy to take the glow from soft sheen to pure pop in seconds. The Luminizer, which is available in 8 shades, lasts all day without fading, creasing, or settling into fine lines and layers well over makeup—liquids, powders, creams— without disturbing what’s already there. rarebeauty.com

Dolce & Gabbana Millennialskin On-The-Glow Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 Millennialskin is the ultimate go-anywhere tinted moisturizer for instant, effortless and universal radiance. Light reflectors create maximum light and skin appears healthy and glowing – no retouching required. But Dolce&Gabbana Beauty also believes that skin should be nourished and enhanced at all times – which is why Millennialskin has been reformulated to contain the Dolce&Gabbana Beauty Mediterranean Glow Complex, a synergy of natural ingredients powered by exclusive skincare technology that plumps, softens and hydrates the complexion. Mediterranean Fig Extract smooths and protects, Organic Italian Olive Oil plumps and softens, and Hyaluronic Acid provides lasting hydration. And for urban protection, Millennialskin also contains a combination of protective ingredients and UV filters to provide broad-spectrum SPF30. dolcegabbana.com

Huda Beauty Honey Whip Peptide Moisturizer Loaded with powerful natural extracts & potent actives like manuka honey, cica, peptides and collagen, this rich-but-lightweight whipped cream moisturizer helps to firm, lift, repair, AND plump the skin, as well as reduce redness and even out your complexion. Honey Whip Peptide Moisturizer is also non-comedogenic & Dermatologist tested! Key Ingredients: Manuka honey, a super moisturizing ingredient packed with antioxidant properties that help smooth, soften, soothe & calm the skin. Cica: Well-known in Korean skincare, this iconic ingredient is known for its soothing properties & reducing redness in the skin. Peptides: They help to firm, lift & reduce fine lines, encouraging skin cell turnover & create fresh collagen! Collagen: Legit the key to youthful-looking, firm, and plump skin! hudabeauty.com

Chanel Fall Winter 2021 Collection Tone on Tone It is with a daring and narrowly focused color vocabulary that the CHANEL Makeup Creation Studio introduces the Fall-Winter 2021 Collection. The products in this new tone on tone-inspired collection find perfect synergy and form harmonies of color. They are composed around four shades - a warm gray, an assortment of khakis, a terracotta inspired by natural tones, and a reddish brown - designed to be worn from the eyes all the way to the fingertips. Each color harmony is as unique as it is timeless, but all four share one purpose: to enhance your eyes. To make them the center of attention. chanel.com

Rare Beauty With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm is a hydrating, conditioning lip balm that provides buildable color with a natural dewy finish. Formulated with shea butter and a botanical blend of lotus, gardenia, and white waterlily, this nourishing balm wraps lips with lasting moisture. rarebeauty.com

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Jimmy Choo The Core Collection Introduced for 2021, the Core collection is a seasonless permanent collection of new and iconic styles that lay the foundations for a modern accessory wardrobe addressing every function from day to night, formal to casual, city to beach.

Defined as three distinct design pillars embodying the creative essence of the brand – Pearl, Crystal, and Monogram. The Core collection offers signature glamour everyday – anytime – anywhere. “To me, glamour is an attitude, a sense of confidence that’s not limited to a time or a place. The Core collection pinpoints the fundamental visual DNA of our brand with three distinct identities that we will reinforce and return to every season. A distillation of our essence. It’s who we are. The Core Collection offers glamour every day – anytime – anywhere.” – Sandra Choi, Creative Director. Crystal The Crystal has been with Jimmy Choo since the very beginning – it underscores Jimmy Choo’s multi-faceted identity, the brand as a jewel in and of itself. Capturing light, refracting, reflecting, crystal is like a self-contained spotlight. The signature C shaped Crystal buckle is played with

for evening and for day, existing 24/7 in the wardrobe of the Jimmy Choo muse. Pearl The timeless elegance of the Pearl is modernized in exaggerated proportions punctuating product in playful applications including heels, flats, sandals, handbags, and clutches. Monogram A 21st century emblem, the Monogram is a celebration of the identity of the brand. The interlinked JC logo has evolved into a signature repeat print. Explored through techniques of jacquard weaving and embossing on leather, giving a confident and elevated hallmark across both casual and formal styles. Jimmy Choo is available at Saks Fifth Avenue, City Centre Bahrain. saksme.com

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BAGS

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EXQUISITE STYLE

Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.

Balenciaga Hourglass Small Top Handle Bag Just big enough for your daily essentials, the Hourglass Small Top Handle Bag in bright red shiny box calfskin is an eye-catching accessory. With its curvilinear base, the unique shape demands just as much attention as the color does. The bag features an adjustable and removable 21-inch crossbody strap, a back pocket, and a magnet closure with aged-gold B logo in brass for maximum drama. It is made in Italy from calfskin with a Nappa lambskin lining. balenciaga.com

Christian Louboutin Elisa Baguette The modern and elegant Elisa Baguette bag stands out for its sophisticated style. This model is dressed in a Splash blue finish for a bright style. An example of the know-how of Maison Christian Louboutin, it portrays the Egyptian inspiration of the creator with its tone-on-tone monogrammed cartouche clasp. It can be carried by hand or over the shoulder thanks to its handle and shoulder strap. The bag has six compartments and two flap pockets. christianlouboutin.com

Dior Mini Dior Lady Bag The Lady Dior bag epitomizes Dior’s vision of elegance and beauty. It demonstrates the House’s unique leather craftsmanship and is offered in celestial blue satin, embroidered with a multitude of beads in a hallmark Cannage-motif design, while the handles are made with tonal metallic calfskin. The pale gold-finish metal ‘D.I.O.R.’ charms are adorned with white crystals and further embellish its silhouette. The miniature style, with its removable chain shoulder strap, can be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder or crossbody and will be the ideal evening companion. dior.com

Dolce&Gabbana Small Sicily Bag in Dauphine Calfskin From the brand icon par excellence, this small Sicily bag comes in pop colors. Featuring an understated and feminine shape, the Sicily bag in Dauphine calfskin features a front flap with hidden press-stud fastening, branded plate featuring two metal plating finishes, and top handle and adjustable, detachable strap in Dauphine calfskin. The printed fabric lining features an inner pocket with branded zipper and cell phone holder. dolcegabbana.com

Fendi Peekaboo ISeeU East-West bag Fendi’s iconic Peekaboo ISeeU horizontal design bag is made of pink leather and embellished with the classic twist lock on both sides. Featuring a soft gold-coloured laminated nappa leather lining, two compartments are separated by a stiff partition, an inner pocket, metalware and handle with exquisite gold-coloured guilloche finish. It can be carried by hand or on the shoulder thanks to its handle and the adjustable, detachable shoulder strap. fendi.com

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Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM Part of the LVxFornasetti capsule collection created for the Fall-Winter 2021 season, this fashionable edition of the Neverfull MM tote is arrayed in an exclusive print that unites iconic Monogram canvas with an overlay of colorful cameos. Inspired by antique coins, the Greco-Roman motifs are finely illustrated in the signature style of the Fornasetti design atelier. louisvuitton.com

Gucci Diana Medium Tote Bag Combining recognizable elements of the House, the medium-sized tote bag is defined by its bamboo handles and Double G hardware. Crafted from brown leather, the accessory is further accentuated by two neon straps, a playful reference to the bands used to keep handles in shape. gucci.com

Prada Padded Nappa Leather Handbag A study of the triangle inspires new geometric details and unique interpretations of the historic Prada logo. The iconic shape is reworked in the design of this handbag with soft reverse stitch construction, completed by a handle and detachable shoulder strap that lets it be worn in different ways. prada.com

Yves Saint Laurent Le Monogramme Bucket Bag in Canvas and Smooth Leather Tyler Ellis Bee Mine’ Tyler Ellis x Hamda Al Fahim This limited-edition Perry Clutch is part of the house’s ‘Love and Romance’ capsule collection with UAE-based couture gown designer Hamda Al Fahim. The fabrics used for each piece are entirely embroidered by hand at Hamda’s atelier in Abu Dhabi and sent directly to the Tyler Ellis factory in Italy, where the bags are handcrafted to perfection by highly skilled indigenous artisans. The Perry fits the large iPhone, has interior pockets, an optional cross-body chain and features the brand’s signature Pinecone Closure and Thayer Blue lining. Silhouettes can be customized in colors of your choosing tylerellis.com

Valentino Small Rockstud Alcove Grainy Calfskin Handbag The Small Valentino Garavani Rockstud Alcove grainy calfskin handbag is characterized by its instantly recognizable antique brass-finish metal hardware. Featuring a leather pendant that can be customized in a selection of stores, you can make it your own. The red Nappa lining adds a touch of luxury and features a divider with zipper and one flat pocket. valentino.com

The Le Monogramme Bucket Bag features a unique drawstring closure and detachable zip pocket, making it perfect for daily use. The adjustable leather shoulder strap adds convenience and ease of use. The vegetal leather used for the trimmings is treated to be light-resistant and age well with time. ysl.com

SHOES - MEN

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Complete your distinguished look with the latest in high-end men’s shoes.

Dior Explorer Derby Shoe The season’s new Dior Explorer Derby shoe combines timeless elegance and modernity. Crafted in black smooth calfskin, the style is enhanced with tonal Dior Oblique jacquard side inserts. Its streamlined design is completed by a tonal notched rubber sole and a rear engraved ‘DIOR’ signature. The shoe may be worn with any seasonal attire. dior.com

Christian Louboutin Roadirik Flat The Roadirik ankle boot draws its inspiration from rock’n’roll and is a testament to the aesthetic knowhow of Maison Christian Louboutin. This black calfskin model sports a visible side zip. It is adorned with a row of signature silver spikes at the heel. This slender silhouette shoe has an alluring style that is both elegant and sophisticated. christianlouboutin.com

Brunello Cucinelli Burnished Grained Calfskin Sneakers with Natural Rubber Sole The excellence of Brunello Cucinelli materials enriches the versatile style of these classic men’s sneakers. The slightly uneven color and texture of the upper forms an elegant contrast with the smooth, artisanal-produced natural rubber outsole, which also ensure the sneakers are lightweight and flexible, for all day comfort. brunellocucinelli.com

Versace La Greca Jacquard Slippers Crafted from silk jacquard in the new La Greca pattern, these sleek slippers add a very Versace touch to an array of day to evening looks. The low top and slip on style provides daily comfort. The upper is made of 100% silk, while the insole is calf leather for ultimate durability. versace.com

Gucci Men’s Basket Sneaker Sporting a look synonymous with basketball sneakers from the ‘90s, the House introduces the newest rendition of the lace-up sneaker— Gucci Basket. This high-top style emulates the self-expression of on-court aesthetic with distinctive features and detailing. Offered in a mix of brightly colored fabrics and finished with a lightly distressed effect, each pair is crafted primarily from Demetra. Created with the same processes used for tanning, the new material offers pliable and resilient performance with a supple finish. The eco-friendly material combines animal-free raw materials primarily from sustainable, renewable, and bio-based sources. gucci.com

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Balenciaga Men’s Track Sneaker The new Balenciaga track sneaker in black mesh and nylon features a dynamic sole design with an augmented back to propel feet forward. The Balenciaga brandmark is printed on the exterior and embossed on the tongue, and the shoe features a washed effect for a well-worn look. balenciaga.com

Dolce & Gabbana Quilted two-tone nylon Portofino Light mid-top sneakers The new Portofino Light mid-top sneakers reflect the contemporary, urban style featured in the “Street Patchwork” collection, in which the city seen through the eyes of the younger generations is the star. Coming in two-tone quilted nylon, they feature the new rubberized DG logo and have the side zip to ensure the utmost comfort. The shoes also come with themed packaging. dolcegabbana.com

Lanvin Mesh Clay Sneakers The Clay sneakers redefine convention and come in leather and mesh featuring a graphic design with a contrasting “JL” logo detail. The shoe is available in a high-top or low-top version, both with an exclusive cream rubber sole. lanvin.com

Jimmy Choo Diamond X Trainer Jimmy Choo’s retro-inspired DIAMOND X trainers are crafted from contrasting panels of black and white nylon and leather to create a dynamic look. They are set on the brand’s iconic futuristic, multifaceted sea green sole that encases and elevates and finished with bright orange laces. Prepare to make an impact with every step. jimmychoo.com

Louis Vuitton LV Trainers This version of the cult LV Trainers, seen at Louis Vuitton’s FallWinter 2021 Men’s Show, comes in transparent canvas, reflecting a theme of the season. Key details of this new design include its velcro strap, oversized Monogram Flower on the side and signature at the back, with Louis on the left foot and Vuitton on the right. louisvuitton.com

Prada Leather high-top sneakers These sporty leather high-top sneakers are accented with different interpretations of the Prada logo that appears on the tongue, along the light rubber sole, and as the iconic enameled metal triangle decorating the ankle. prada.com

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Stepping in Style Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.

Bottega Veneta Dot Embellished Leather Sandals True luxury lies with the Dot Sandals from Bottega Veneta, which come with round nodules across the rubber insoles that massage the feet as you walk. The shoe features a lamb leather upper, rubber sole, and brass trim on the buckle-fastening ankle strap. bottegaveneta.com

Christian Louboutin Aquajane The Aquajane is notable for its tapered lines and expresses the emblematic elegance of Maison Christian Louboutin. It is mounted on a 45 mm square plexiglass heel adorned with hand-placed strass, and its Splash blue patent calfskin upper reveals the foot thanks to its daring low cut. It is fitted with two straps with strass dressed buckles and a characteristic square toe that gives it a sophisticated air. christianlouboutin.com

Dolce & Gabbana Patent Leather Mules with DG Pop Heel A tribute to femininity and the 90s, the new shoe reinterprets the aesthetics of the supermodels that dominated the catwalk during that decade, creating a new version of the brand’s signature aesthetic and the image of a feminine, unique woman. The new DG crossover logo transforms into the heel of the patent leather Keira mules, imbuing them with bold, modern allure. dolcegabbana.com

Dior Rose Fantastique Slingback Pump The Rose Fantastique pump is a reminder of the collection’s modern and enchanting universe. Crafted in black crinkled calfskin, it is distinguished by a vertically placed rose on the toe, while the ankle strap is adorned with decorative studs inspired by rose thorns. The square-toed shoe, with its 4 cm (1.5”) Tibet heel will embellish any look. The leather sole features a star, Christian Dior’s lucky symbol. dior.com

Fendi Fendi First The Fendi First pink leather high-heeled sandals are immediately arresting for the dramatic diagonal F-shaped sculpted heel in gold-coloured metal. The wide band and strap add comfort, making the shoe as comfortable as it is stylish, while the neutral pale pink complements any outfit. fendi.com

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Jimmy Choo Marsai 90 Malachite Suede Sandals with Crystal Buckle Jimmy Choo’s chic and eye-catching MARSAI sandals are crafted in Italy from soft malachite suede. They feature a delicate ankle strap, square toe and a slightly curved 90mm heel. This elegant pair is finished with our signature crystal-embellished buckle for a touch of Jimmy Choo glamour. jimmychoo.com

Gucci Women’s Matelassé Pump Emblematic of the House’s designs, this pair of pumps is crafted from pink matelassé leather with a chevron motif. A miniature version of Guccio Gucci’s monogram appears as a hardware detail at the heel, adding a subtle logo touch. The shoe features a leather sole and 95mm heels. gucci.com

Louis Vuitton Silhouette Ankle Boots One of Louis Vuitton’s emblematic styles, the Silhouette Ankle Boots are revisited this season in black and white Monogram velvet for an effect that is both graphic and feminine. This model is known for its distinctive heel in the shape of a Monogram Flower. It is finished with a back loop in Monogram canvas. louisvuitton.com

Manolo Blahnik GALAXIMU Blue Satin Star Embellished Mary Jane Mules Manolo Blahnik’s GALAXIMU blue satin Mary Jane mules feature a pointed toe, front strap with crystal star embellished buckle, and flared mid heel measuring 70 mm. manoloblahnik.com

Miu Miu Patent Leather Slingback Pumps Elegance and sophistication are personified in these pumps from Miu Miu. The crystal decoration adds a touch of light to the shoe, which features an 85 mm varnished heel. miumiu.com

Versace La Medusa Satin Slingback Pumps Effortlessly elegant, these slingbacks are crafted from smooth satin. The sleek pointed toe silhouette is adorned with a fully crystal-encrusted Medusa plaque – the iconic décor found on the doors of the brand’s first headquarters in Milan. versace.com

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Color, Creativity & Passion Reinventing Italian contemporary pop art, artist Antonio Murgia creates intensive creations that channel expressive power onto the canvas. WOMEN OFTEN TAKE CENTER STAGE IN YOUR ART. WHAT MAKES THEM THIS SOURCE OF FASCINATION? In my life and my art, I always refer to two different ways of reading things: internal and external and superficial and profound. I’ve applied this same concept to the female world because women have always represented the embodiment of beauty, and, especially for the male universe, that intimate and hidden side of each of us.

YOU SOMETIMES INCORPORATE AMERICAN POP CULTURE REFERENCES FROM MARILYN MONROE TO MICKEY MOUSE INTO YOUR ART. IS IT A POLITICAL STATEMENT ON THE INFLUENCE OF US CULTURE OR A LOVE LETTER TO IT? Symbols of pop culture are practically absent in my latest artistic productions. It was rarely a love letter, more of a critical concept that gave the viewer the opportunity to play with the meaning and allusions that those symbols carry. Those symbols are so recognizable and famous that the viewer is attracted to them. I like to use them to form a direct relationship with people because the power of those symbols and colors is an easy way to communicate.

IS THERE A COMMON THEME THAT UNITES YOUR WORK? OR DOES EACH PORTRAIT STAND OUT AS AN INDEPENDENT NARRATIVE?

Both. I always try to give each painting its own identity and personality, bearing in mind that it’s impossible to free them from each other. My works are linked by a common vision, and it could not be otherwise. I try to ensure that all my paintings tell a different story and that each piece is unique, even if they all are linked by the same ideology and idea.

WHAT ARE THE EMOTIONS OR THOUGHTS THAT OFTEN OVERTAKE YOU WHILE YOU ARE CREATING? DO THEY GUIDE YOUR VISION? There are moments when I have no emotions or thoughts and I let myself be carried away by colours and materials, forming a collage without any control. Other times I respect a project, but there are two different stages of realization: the first concerns the design idea and thinking about how to transpose it onto canvas, while the other allows me to let go and be guided by my brush as I work.

WHAT ATTRACTS YOU TO POP ART? WHAT DOES THAT STYLE COMMUNICATE TO YOU? I am attracted by the colors and power of those shades that are strong and intimate at the same time. Beyond any cultural structure, my first goal is to convey a positive vision of life and existence. My work becomes a vehicle of positivity, optimism, and vitality. All my paintings are characterized by a strong and vivid mix of colors. I usually add material things, stickers, numbers, and glitter, as well and the result

September 2021

01 Artist Antonio Murgia with one of his artworks 02 Stabilita Emotiva

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is an explosion of vitality and liveliness that I hope replicates the life of the viewer.

WHAT WERE THE MAJOR INFLUENCES ON YOUR STYLE? DO YOU TAKE INSPIRATION FROM ITALIAN ARTISTS THAT CAME BEFORE YOU? From a technical-artistic, ideological, and conceptual point of view, contemporary artists are my main sources of inspiration. However, I prefer to refer to contemporaneity and the art situation in which I live. It is useful to take an example from the past, but I think it is more useful to have advice from the present. We live in the present and the best way to improve it is to dissect every aspect of it.

WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING WORK OF YOUR CAREER? ONE THAT WAS THE MOST DEMANDING EMOTIONALLY. I don’t remember such an artistically and emotionally demanding work, perhaps because each of my pieces is linked to the others and my greatest effort is to conceive them ideologically. In my opinion, it is essential to make art without thinking about the need to prove myself as an artist. All my work is challenging, but the most important thing is to respect myself and not pretend to be someone else just to satisfy popular tastes. I think this is the most challenging thing for any artist.

September 2021

AT WHAT POINT IN YOUR CAREER DID YOU FEEL YOU TRULY MADE IT AS AN ARTIST? WAS THERE A SPECIFIC ACHIEVEMENT THAT MADE YOU PROUDEST? I’ve never had a specific goal to consider myself as an artist or had the desire to exhibit in an important gallery or an international fair. I am happy to live in a world where I do what I love, and people love what I do - this is the perfect way to be an artist.

DO THE TRENDS OF THE ART WORLD MAKE AN IMPACT ON YOUR WORK? DO THEY INFLUENCE YOU IN ANY WAY? I would prefer not to be influenced by the trends of the art world, but it’s impossible. I always look at my fellow contemporary artists, and it is impossible not to be influenced by them, especially from an ideological point of view.

WHAT WOULD BE THE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WISH SOMEONE HAD GIVEN YOU AT THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CAREER? Learn the theory of color, destroy it, and customize it. Colors are the representations of our mind and soul; we are emotional animals and through that emotionality we create rationality, so it is always better to start from the roots. Color is life, and I hope to bring happiness and vitality into the lives of everyone who views my art. antonio_murgia_

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SPECIAL FEATURE

01 The showroom offers an extensive Rolex collection of over 800 watches

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The Inimitable Rolex Experience The prestigious Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique features unique design that celebrates Arabian culture. Located in City Centre Bahrain, it offers an exclusive VIP suite for private viewings.

The boutique provides an unforgettable experience for customers, by offering them an extensive Rolex collection of over 800 watches on display in beautifully crafted walnut showcases. Decorated with ultimate perfectionism and the highest quality materials, customers will experience outstanding interior design, developed in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists. The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland, and the Murano chandelier in Italy. The atmosphere illustrates the world of Rolex and offers privacy and professional advice, with many staff who have been with Modern Art Studio for over 30 years. The boutique is the largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world. Modern Art Studio was founded in 1936 by Naji Murad. His original shop was located in Government Avenue, Manama, Bahrain. In 1940 Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex Geneva, officially appointed Modern Art Studio as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf. Naji Murad promoted and sold watches from his store in Bahrain and also to his sub agents in

the Gulf. He later recommended them to Rolex to become official agents, many of whom are still distributors of Rolex today. In 1978, Modern Art Studio’s new Rolex showroom was opened by Mr. André Heiniger CEO of Rolex, who commented that it was “one of the best Rolex shops in the world”. The shop had exclusive showcases which not only displayed the watches but were also cleverly designed into individual letters spelling the name ROLEX. Under the directorship of Richard and David Murad - the sons of Naji Murad, Modern Art Studio continues to trade as a well-established family business. Hans Wilsdorf founded Tudor watches in 1946 and the first Tudor Boutique in the Gulf was opened by Modern Art Studio in Manama Bahrain in December 2014. Modern Art Studio continues to be in the forefront of promoting Rolex and Tudor watches in the Gulf. masbahrain.com

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“The boutique is the largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world.”

03 02 The atmosphere illustrates the world of Rolex and offers privacy and professional advice 03 The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland 04, 05 Customers will experience outstanding interior design, developed in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists

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BOUTIQUE Experience

The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world. BURBERRY LONDON, UK The Knightsbridge Estate shop, a collaboration with architect Vincenzo De Cotiis, honors the brand’s heritage while beckoning toward the future. Three floors and ten rooms are dedicated to the retail destination, which marks a return to the brand’s birthplace: founder Thomas Burberry opened the luxury brand’s first store in the same London postcode 130 years ago. The design accordingly pays homage to Burberry’s history, manifested through a contemporary lens – there’s even a specialized spotlight for the label’s iconic cotton-gabardine trench coat. ‘We wanted to create a domestic shell, a home where art, culture and people move through intelligent and elegant modernity,’ says architect Vincenzo De Cotiis. The ground floor is conceptualized as an everchanging gallery environment for which to display Burberry’s latest collections, with a standalone square-frame unit for merchandising. To reach the first-floor womenswear area, one must pass through a monochromatic staircase enveloped by a glass box with a mirrored ceiling. An interior with white-gloss finishes, beige carpeting, sculptural seating spots, a bespoke architectural island and wraparound arched windows awaits them. Upstairs, in the menswear department, De Cotiis and Burberry translated the visual language of the previous floors in a new setting, incorporating white terrazzo, stainless steel finishes and additional custom furnishings. Burberry Sloane Street plays on the brand’s storied heritage while remaining attractive enough to a young generation of shoppers – its atmosphere reflects a fine balance between traditional flagship and sleek concept shop. Three more flagship openings this year will feature the new design concept. burberry.com

September 2021

ARCHITECTURE

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN ZURICH, SWITZERLAND IWC Schaffhausen has opened the doors to its all-new flagship boutique in Zurich. Taking the concept of retail to a new dimension, IWC provides an interactive journey into its world, bringing to life the connection between engineering excellence in watchmaking and motorsport through a focus on the IWC Racing Team. The immersive experience includes memorabilia, virtual reality and even a live link to IWC’s Manufacturing Center in Schaffhausen for clients to enjoy as they browse the brand’s finely crafted timepieces. Located on the ‘home straight’ of Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse, the expanded and remodeled boutique has been styled as ‘IWC Racing Works’ – the global home of the brand’s classic racing team. The space invites clients to enter the world of a bustling motor-racing workshop, appointed with a rich blend of motorsport memorabilia, engineering artefacts and unique timepieces that tell the story of the long-standing connection between IWC and motor racing. The motoring centerpiece is the IWC Racing Mercedes 300 SL “Gullwing” - the official car of the IWC Racing Team, driven by racing legends such as David Coulthard, Bernd Mayländer and Mercedes-AMG ambassador Bernd Schneider. Visitors can not only marvel at the sculptural beauty of the Gullwing, they are also invited to buckle up in the cockpit and put their racing skills to the test in a bespoke VR driving experience. The ‘Engineering Lab’ tells the story of IWC’s technical excellence and key innovations from the brand’s 152-year history. Movement models and material samples are complemented by a choreographed multimedia presentation. The ‘Garage’ at the back of the store houses the 300SL Gullwing and the VR driving experience as well as the Hero Wall – an animated presentation of IWC racing drivers, their legendary victories, and timepieces. iwc.com

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ARCHITECTURE

“A luxurious district that promises

an upscale fashion experience, Boulevard offers the latest in premium amenities.”

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LORO PIANA JEDDAH, KSA Loro Piana opened its new store in the region in Jeddah, KSA. Located at one of the most prestigious shopping destinations in the city, Boulevard Mall, the 232 square meter store further marks Loro Piana’s steady expansion within the Middle Eastern market and the re-entry into Saudi Arabia with its first stand-alone boutique in the Kingdom. A luxurious district that promises an upscale fashion experience, Boulevard offers the latest in premium amenities. With this highly anticipated location, Loro Piana will join an array of international luxury brands in the Boulevard. Boasting two entrances, the store will allow visitors to enter from the Boulevard Plaza as well as through direct street access for convenience. Loro Piana’s full range of Spring Summer 2021 Women’s and Men’s ready-to-wear collections will be available at this new location, along with a carefully curated range of accessories and leather goods. A tribute to color and detailing, essential elements of the brand’s DNA, every piece from

the Spring Summer collection conveys a sense of energy and uniqueness, immediately captivating the attention and drawing the store’s visitors into the universe of Loro Piana. The store will also be home to some of the best-selling pieces from the iconic White Sole shoe collection – the Summer Walk, the Summer Charm and Open Walk shoes. Extremely comfortable with low-key white soles, these tastefully muted color range of footwear are highly popular amongst Middle Eastern customers. Embracing Middle East taste for luxury and refinement, the store celebrates the unique and inimitable soul of Loro Piana through a singular experience, moving the brand closer to the Middle Eastern culture and community, through a focused and dedicated product offer. Once again, attention to the customer and exquisite products, all keywords in Loro Piana’s language. loropiana.com

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September 2021

TORY BURCH NYC, US The opening of 151 Mercer Street, in New York City’s iconic SoHo neighborhood, marks Tory’s love of and commitment to the city, as well as a return to a downtown location. Tory moved to SoHo right after college and, in 2004, opened her first boutique a few blocks away from Mercer Street. The new location also reflects an evolution of the retail concept, while honoring the brand’s design codes and history of the neighborhood. The new boutique will offer the Tory Burch collection, including Home, the new 151 Mercer handbags and a series of limited-edition Lee Radziwill Double Bags, exclusive to this location. Created in partnership with Curiosity architect Gwenaël Nicolas, the boutique balances Tory Burch’s distinctive aesthetic with a modern point of view. A conversation between old and new, minimal and maximal, architectural and decorative. Brand codes - oak, rattan and brass - are reimagined in different finishes and tones, and humble materials are used in unexpected ways, creating the tension between high and low that Tory often references in her collections. The ground floor is defined by four main areas and features. A specially designed parquet pattern floor, made with wood and ceramic, leads into the space. Baskets suspended from the ceiling form a canopy of natural texture above handbags and accessories. This detail was pulled from Tory’s memories of woven baskets from all around the world that hung from the kitchen ceiling in her childhood home in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Beyond, a wicker honeycomb structure, inspired by Tory’s own bee apiary in Antigua, is designed specifically for handbags, small leather goods, jewelry and personal objects she has collected. Landscape artist Miranda Brooks created an outdoor garden space behind the store. toryburch.com

“A conversation between old

and new, minimal and maximal, architectural and decorative.”

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September 2021

Waterfront Living at Its Finest A balanced blend of the old and new, Diyar Al Muharraq aims to preserve the past by re-igniting Bahrain’s warm and coastal lifestyle. Lying at its heart is the luxurious Al Naseem community, the jewel of the Kingdom’s vision for growth and innovation.

01 Panoramic Canal Views 02 Sabaah El Nasayem Swimming Pool 01

Al Naseem, which translates into ‘sea breeze’ in Arabic, redefines luxury and modern living, chartering new waters for a refined experience while delivering on the comfort of home. A fusion of creativity and innovation, and a pioneer of integrated living, it has emerged as an iconic and luxurious waterfront oasis providing a residential experience unlike any other. An independent residential community, one of the key attractions of Al Naseem is that it provides its residents with an unmatched lifestyle of extravagance and tranquility with unparalleled sea views. Providing breath-taking views of inner and outer canals that wind through magnificently themed neighborhoods, paying tribute to ancient, canalled cities with a modern take. Surrounded by water and conceptualized to provide its trendsetting inhabitants with an embellished and sustainable lifestyle. The unique development comprises a gated community and a non-gated community. The first zone has marked itself as Diyar Al Muharraq’s first gated residential community; encompassing more than 300 canal front villas, 500 residential apartments in individually designed buildings and shared community and leisure facilities. The gated residential zone is segmented into eight inviting neighborhoods with names inspired by the environment and breath-taking views, all within

walking distance to the attractive waterfront shopping district. Open balconies and optional private boat docks provide the calmness of waterfront living of the Al Naseem Villas which are lodged in the gated residential zone of the project. As for the second, non-gated area, the zone is set to house an additional 500 apartments within exquisitely designed buildings, adjoining 10,000 sqm of retail, leisure and entertainment facilities with an integrated pedestrian-friendly Retail and Marina Promenade complete with a 100-berth marina, enabling residents and visitors alike to enjoy an array of leisure activities and entertainment options featuring tantalizing dining experiences. Besides the sparkling Promenade and Marina, the project boasts an exclusive Leisure Club, encompassing a fitness center with separate facilities for men and women, to complement a lifestyle of holistic health and wellness. Alongside communal spaces and world-class amenities including a tennis court, multi-purpose hall and expansive outdoor play area for children, the community also benefits from open parks and a Mosque that brings worshippers together in peaceful prayer. Works on the first phase of Al Naseem include the construction of villas bordering the main canal, for which the foundations of key features have already been completed, and progress on secondary infrastructure is well underway, standing at 55%

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completion to date, with marine works on this phase 57% complete. The entire project is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2022. Al Naseem comprises four villa types with layouts to complement various lifestyles, holistically named after the times of day, starting for Morning (Sabaah El-Nasayem), Afternoon (Duha El-Nasayem), Dusk (Aseel El-Nasayem) and finally Nightfall (Layl ElNasayem), ranging from 384 sqm to 304 sqm respectively. Surrounded by lush greenery and gorgeous views of the water, the spacious villas are built with tasteful interiors designed with an attention to detail. Inspired by the natural elements of the water canals, the accompanying marine life, and the different colors of the day, the interiors invoke a sense of unity and calmness throughout. Ultimately, a close-knit and sophisticated community can be found at Al Naseem’s peaceful surroundings, which extends far beyond waterfront living to offer residents an extensive, vibrant, urban living experience; offers a residential destination that delivers luxury redefined. diyar.bh 04

September 2021

03 Duhaa El Nasayem Dining Area 04 Sabaah El Nasayem Living Room 05 Al Naseem Villas Exterior 06 Sabaah El Nasayem Dining Area 07 Canal Views and Private Boat Dock

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ENDLESS Fun Home to world class hotels, award-winning theme parks, as well as Abu Dhabi’s largest mall, Yas Island is a holiday destination unlike any other. Durrah visits the iconic island to explore its incredible offerings.

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and dotted with some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, Yas Island offers one-of-a-kind experiences that are bound to invigorate all the senses and create memories that will last a lifetime. Spanning 25km2, Yas Island features eight hotels, along with several world-class entertainment, dining, shopping, sports, and leisure attractions. Yas Island is conveniently located for visitors from far and wide. The destination is an approximate 10-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, a 20-minute drive to Abu Dhabi city center and a 50 minute-drive from Dubai. Holiday makers can easily explore all the Island has to offer through Yas Express – a complimentary shuttle service that connects all hotels and major attractions on Yas Island through designated bus stops. We faced no problems booking our hotel, as there is no shortage of comfortable accommodation. Yas Island has more than 2,000 rooms and suites across eight hotels that range

from affordable 3-star comfort to sophisticated 5-star luxury with a variety of services at different price-points. These include the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, which and features 545 rooms and suites with four dining experiences, and the W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, which is the world’s only hotel with a section of a Formula 1 racetrack winding through its arch, as the island is home to the Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and offers year-round events and activities. One of the most popular destinations on the island – and one that we particularly enjoyed – is Yas Mall. This amazing shopping center spans 250,000 sqm, dedicated to retail, dining, and entertainment. Directly linked to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the mall features over 400 international brands and 79 restaurants and cafes, making it Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping venue. Our visit took us to CLYMB Abu Dhabi. Featuring the world’s widest indoor skydiving chamber, it

September 2021

01 Yas Island features some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks 02 The Yas Marina Circuit hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

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03 Yas Waterworld, Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s unique Emiratithemed waterpark 04 Lots of fun to be had at Yas Island’s theme parks 05 Patrons dining at one of the island’s many restaurants

September 2021

06 CLYMB Abu Dhabi features the world’s widest indoor skydiving chamber 07 Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island 08 Yas Links, the first true Links coastal golf course in the Middle East, boasts a magnificent eighteen-hole course

spans 10 meters and reaches 54.6 meters high. It’s also the region’s tallest indoor climbing wall towering, at an impressive 42.16 meters high! We also had an unforgettable fun-filled time at Yas Island’s three theme parks: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi- the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi- the UAE’s unique Emirati-themed waterpark, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi - the world’s first-ever Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park. A visit to Yas Island would not be complete without teeing up! Yas Links, the first true Links coastal golf course in the Middle East, boasts a magnificent eighteen-hole course. It was ranked #2 in the Middle East, and #44 in the world by Golf Digest in 2018. There are plenty more that Yas Island has to offer, such as Yas Marina, which is a dedicated waterway and luxury yacht marina equipped with 277 berths and surrounded by 7 restaurants and cafes, Yas Beach, Etihad Arena and Etihad Park, and much more. Overall, Yas Island is an exceptional venue that presents opportunities for some truly unparalleled holiday experiences.

“A visit to Yas Island would not be complete without teeing up!”

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September 2021

01 Walk in the steps of Charlie Chaplin at Chaplin’s World

02 Enjoy the Montreux Riviera

SWISS Enchantment With Switzerland now open, travelers are invited to explore the magical region of Vaud in the Lake Geneva region, where days are long, evenings balmy, and nature abundant.

Located in the southwestern part of Switzerland in its French-speaking region between Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, the region of Vaud is a dream vacation destination. The region is served by Geneva international airport, which is a short 40-minute train ride away from Lausanne. The region boasts a strong infrastructure including luxurious and affordable accommodation and well-connected transportation system. The region features beautiful towns such as Lausanne, the Olympic Capital and Montreux Riviera, all steeped in centuries of history and culture. It has influenced and inspired many artists over the years from Lord Byron and Audrey Hepburn to Charlie Chaplin, David Bowie, and Freddie Mercury. Vaud region is best known for its art of living, local and internationally renowned events, outdoor sports activities, world class gastronomy, traditions, and culture.

This spectacular Swiss destination offers culture, fine dining, and outdoor adventure with the breathtaking backdrop of the picturesque Lake Geneva and the Alps. The whole family will love the Historic Fort de Chillon, the 20th century fortification on the edge of Lake Geneva. Once the primary way to protect the road and rail lines passing from Lausanne to the mountainous interior region of Lausanne, it is now a must-see location to learn about the region’s history. Guests can relive the experiences of a Swiss soldier through a range of fun activities including quizzes, strategy games, augmented reality and 3D games. For an extra taste of military life, visitors can take a seat at the Concordia Platz where the soldiers sat before pausing for a gourmet coffee break or dining at the fort’s cafe.

Whether spending some romantic time with that special someone or taking a group of friends out to experience the wonders of the water, witnessing the spectacular scenery from Lake Geneva gives a unique experience to the region. With pedal boats for two or up to seven people, this offers a unique insight into the scale of the Swiss scenery in the blissful serenity of Lake Geneva. Guests can experience some of Switzerland’s’ signature foods on an exceptional culinary excursion thanks to the Chocolate Train. The adventure begins by rail on the Belle Époque carriage from Montreux to Montbovon before taking a luxury bus through the scenic region. At the first stop in Gruyères, visitors can discover the secrets of the production of the world-famous cheese by the same name, before setting off to explore the medieval town. Chocolate lovers will then get to

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03, 04 Aquatis Aquarium presents animals through a totally immersive and interactive scenography

explore the famous chocolate factory in Broc which concludes with an irresistible tasting. At the Olympic Museum, sports lovers can learn about the founders of this world-famous sporting event and the cultural, social, and historical impact it has had on the world since its birth. With 1,500 objects and 150 screens to relive great Olympic moments, the Museum offers visitors a unique experience in a place where information, reflection and emotion are shared around sport. At Chaplin’s World, film fans can walk in the steps of Hollywood’s legendary Charlie Chaplin, immerse in the studio to experience the silent world of film, or roam the sprawling ten-acre estate the star once walked retracing the steps of the cinematic hero. The last 25 years of his extraordinary life were spent in Switzerland as he enjoyed the peace and privacy it provided, with views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Now, the museum in his honor invites the world to celebrate the life of this much-loved man. Aquatis Aquarium presents animals through a totally immersive and interactive scenography using innovative digital technologies. More than an aquarium or a vivarium, AQUATIS is an exceptional journey through our planet’s most fascinating freshwater environments. AQUATIS invites visitors to dive head first into an immersive trip around the five continents to discover the main freshwater ecosystems and their flora and fauna. region-du-leman.ch

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Redefining Hospitality Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.

September 2021

01 Enjoy stunning ocean views from your private villa 02 The range of all-inclusive packages is designed to spoil you 03 The resort is located on the private island of Raa Atoll 04 Paradise awaits at your doorstep at Heritance Aarah Maldives

HERITANCE AARAH, MALDIVES As temperatures heat up in the Gulf, the Maldives offers a magical summer escape in the midst of the Indian Ocean. From indulgent spa treatments to decadent dining, the magic of the Maldives has it all. Guests can enjoy a range of all-inclusive packages that are sure to make them feel like a star. A favourite for Bollywood celebrities, international athletes, and musicians, the Maldivian resort offers something for everyone -- from much-needed relaxation to outdoor adventures reconnecting to nature. Located on the private island of Raa Atoll, guests are pampered like a celebrity from arrival to departure, with Maldivian culture and hospitality at the heart of the experience. A complimentary seaplane is available for two adults staying four nights or more, to whisk guests away to the dreamlike surrounds of Raa Atoll where the adventure

begins. A lavish home away from home, guests can choose from 150 villas including 26 intimate luxury duplex ocean suites, 56 sunset ocean villas and 68 land villas, with special offers of 40% off room rates for the summer. For guests looking to escape the heat and work remotely, this desert hideaway could be just what the doctor ordered. The special long-stay deals package ‘Our Island, Your Home’ for 30 days offers guests everything they need to ensure they work and play, every day. Laundry services, decadent dining and activities from yoga to fishing will be on hand for guests to while away their time ‘working remotely’. With a world-class Medi-spa, guests can be pampered with a range of treatments to boost health, wellbeing and beauty. Offering everything from the latest medical prevention and aesthetic

dermatology to fitness and nutrition, some of the treatments include micro-needling, massage, body contouring and hair and beauty services. Dining is a key part of the resort’s offerings a gourmet indulgence with six restaurants offering cuisines from around the globe, and five bars, but there is much to do while staying on the island. Guests can dive amidst exotic underwater marvels, dine under a majestic star-studded sky, soak up the sun or make the most of motorised and nonmotorised water activities and island excursions. Premium three-night all-inclusive package at Heritance Aarah Maldives starts at USD 6,200 on double sharing basis in an Ocean Suite inclusive of seaplane transfers from Velena International airport to resort. heritancehotels.com/aarah

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September 2021

THE WOODWARD, GENEVA, SWITZERLAND Located in the heart of Geneva in a historic post-Haussmann style building on Quai Wilson, The Woodward features an exceptional location with views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc. The property has been entirely renovated by the renowned architectural firm Pierre-Yves Rochon with 26 spacious suites in a refined, contemporary style. Featuring two gourmet restaurants led by Michelin-star chefs Olivier Jean and Alain Verzeroli, as well as a Guerlain Spa ready to welcome both international visitors and local Genevans alike, The Woodward offers the most discerning of traveler a warm welcome that is both glamorous and authentic. A little more than a century after its initial grand opening, the building at 37 Quai Wilson is returning to its original purpose. As of September 1, 2021, it is home to The Woodward, a five-star hotel located in the heart of Geneva. Heads of state, royalty and

05 The hotel has all the elegant touches of a grand Belle Epoque hotel 06 Each of the Woodward’s 26 suites is a full apartment

07 The hotel features an exceptional location with views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc 08 The Woodward has hosted heads of state, stars, royalty, and artists from around the world

artists from around the world once gathered behind the neoclassical façade of this historic building, constructed in 1901 by French architect François Durel. Named L’Hôtel Bellevue, the institution later gave way to a private bank before being acquired by the Bastion Holdings group, who have now returned it to its former glory. At once classic and contemporary, globally inspired yet locally rooted, The Woodward caters as much to an international clientele as to local Genevans. Following a major renovation by internationally renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, the new five-star hotel has all of the elegant touches of a grand Belle Époque hotel. The Woodward’s 26 suites, each a full apartment, have been artfully arranged and decorated to achieve a unified look and feel. The sophisticated design is enhanced by unique decorative elements, including handcrafted

wallpaper, wood marquetry sliding doors, Lalique door handles, majestic marble fireplaces and elegant bookcases. L’Atelier Robuchon, the restaurant’s first Swiss location, is the hotel’s culinary crown jewel, dazzling guests with an unparalleled performance and an unforgettable meal. The restaurant has a direct entrance on Quai Wilson and features one main dining room and two private spaces. Known for its innovative dishes, which are largely gluten-free, lactose-free and plant-based, the restaurant’s culinary creations showcase French cooking techniques at their finest. In addition to its culinary offering, The Woodward will be home to the prestigious Club Woodward, comprising a fitness center and a Guerlain Spa, the first Swiss location for the illustrious French brand. oetkercollection.com

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09 Enjoy a range of luxury experiences and delectable dining 10 An authentic Roman experience awaits 11 Indulge in an array of unparalleled spa treatments 12 The Roma Cavalieri is set in 15 acres of stunning greenery

September 2021

THE ROMA CAVALIERI HOTEL BY WALDORF ASTORIA ROMA, ITALY Set in 15 acres of stunning greenery and offering stunning views of the city and its surroundings, Roma Cavalieri Hotel offers its guests the opportunity to experience the Roman lifestyle with a wide range of luxury experiences, private gardens, swimming pools and outdoor spa services, as well as new sustainable Sunday Brunch experiences and experiential experiences. The hotel’s expansive private garden is an ideal retreat to calm both body and soul. Its outdoor pools welcome guests looking to swim in the fresh air, sunbathe for a tan, or relax under the shade of centuries-old pine trees. A new sustainable brunch experience in collaboration with Slow Food Rome. Slow Food is a well-known Italian organization with more than 30 years of experience in the knowledge and protection of biodiversity as well as the awareness and preservation of the importance

of local food cultures and traditions. Throughout 2021, Hotel Roma Cavalieri will offer a wide range of multi-themed brunch menus that embody history, tradition and sustainability, prepared by Executive Chef Fabio Bosciro of the Oliveto Restaurant team in collaboration with Slow Food Rome. The Cavalieri Grand Spa offers its guests the opportunity to indulge in an unrivalled array of outdoor spa treatments for ultimate peace and relaxation. After indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments al fresco, guests can marvel at unparalleled views of the hotel’s lush green landscapes and captivating blue pools. In the afternoon, guests can also take a stroll in the spacious private Mediterranean garden, enjoy the warm sunshine, or relax under the shade of decades-old pine trees while enjoying the most delicious refreshing drinks and snacks offered by the pool lounge. Afterwards, they

can relax in the luxurious poolside lounge and take a dip in the refreshing pool. The Roma Cavalieri is a truly sustainable property that also offers eco-friendly adventures in the city, including a city tour in the zero-emission Fiat 500 Spiagina. Travelers can also take advantage of a package of luxurious experiences offered to them by the Rome Cavalieri Hotel, either at the hotel or in the city and the surrounding areas. The Hotel Roma Cavalieri has designed a unique and surprising journey into the culinary world, inspired by the breeze of Ponentino. Then, in the arms of the Hotel Roma Cavalieri by Waldorf Astoria, an authentic Roman experience awaits you, exciting summer adventures and unparalleled excursions of discovery. waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

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MANDARIN ORIENTAL MILAN, ITALY

13, 15, 16 Stylish and elegant interiors 14 The hotel is located at the crossroads of the city’s fashion, business, and cultural districts

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is renowned for its stunning selection of properties around the world. Its luxurious locations in Italy are ideal destinations for discerning travellers wishing to explore the country’s illustrious heritage and culture. Italy’s fashion and design capital, Milan is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, home to exclusive boutiques and designer showrooms. Occupying four elegant 18th century buildings, Mandarin Oriental, Milan lies at the crossroads of the city’s fashion, business, and cultural districts. It is just a stone’s throw away from the city’s main sights and world-famous art galleries, museums, and the Scala opera house. The hotel offers a charming mix of style and luxury, with 70 elegant rooms and 34 spacious suites. Guests can discover a range of authentic cuisine at the Italian fine dining restaurant, Seta, run by acclaimed chef Antonio Guida, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Mandarin Bar. Less than an hour’s drive north of Milan lies stunning Lake Como, with grand historical villas and

picture-perfect villages dotted along its shoreline. With its enviable lakefront location, Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is ideally situated for exploring the lake’s main attractions, including the city of Como, where many smart boutiques and family-run restaurants can be found. Nestled between the luxuriant botanical park and lake, the resort represents a seductive blend of Italian style, oriental charm, and natural beauty. Housed within nine separate villas, accommodation includes 21 guestrooms, 52 suites, and two private villas. The resort is perfect for those seeking a relaxing getaway or an active break. It offers a floating pool, a 1,300 sqm spa and an exquisite choice of Mediterranean cuisine at the fine dining restaurant L˜ARIA or at CO.MO Bar & Bistrot. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the awardwinning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. The Group now operates 32 hotels and six residences in 23 countries and territories. Mandarin Oriental is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group. mandarinoriental.com

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MANDARIN ORIENTAL GENEVA, SWITZERLAND Enjoying stylish design, excellent restaurants and unbeatable service, Mandarin Oriental, Geneva is a five-star luxury hotel with an idyllic waterside setting on the serene river Rhône. Perfect for work or pleasure, the hotel has extensive business and conference facilities, and its offsite catering service provides world-class hospitality at a select number of external venues. The hotel is renowned, too, for signature suites that include terraces with beautiful views of old Geneva and the mountains. Situated on the right bank of the River Rhône, it enjoys a peaceful, yet central city-centre setting. The hotel overlooks the river and is within walking distance of attractions such as the Jet D’eau, St. Peter’s Cathedral and the United Nations building. It is also within easy reach of Geneva’s chic boutiques and restaurants and is just a short walk to the financial district. With views over the garden or the river, the hotel’s 181 elegantly designed rooms and suites enjoy a stylish mix of comfort and luxury. It features 143 rooms, all with marble bathrooms, 35 suites, many with terraces and views of the river, all in a stylish contemporary design.

The outstanding restaurants and contemporary bar have made a significant gourmet contribution to Geneva’s dining scene. Yakumanka is a traditional Peruvian cevicheria serving authentic cuisine centred around fine seafood, while modern tapas and cocktails are available at the atmospheric MO Bar. Guests can work out in the gym, relax with a sauna, or treat themselves to a soothing massage or pampering beauty treatment. The hotel features a fully-equipped fitness centre, sauna and steam baths, beauty services offered through excellent salon Coiffeur du Rhône, and massages available in the treatment room. With a convenient central location, fantastic service, and a choice of venues, the hotel offers an excellent setting for meetings, weddings, and events. The conference and banqueting facilities can accommodate up to 350 guests. The hotel also offers well-appointed function rooms, some with magnificent views of the Rhône, and a fully equipped business centre. The experienced Events team can help plan all aspects of your meeting or celebration. mandarinoriental.com

September 2021

17 The hotel offers gorgeous views of the river Rhône 18, 19, 20, 21 The perfect mix of comfort and luxury

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September 2021

SERENE TREATMENTS Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility. HERITANCE

AARAH, MALDIVES An Unforgettable wellness Journey at Heritance Aarah Maldives. A holistic luxury wellness experience for GCC travelers seeking whole body rejuvenation. Heritance Aarah Maldives, the premium all-inclusive hideaway in Raa Atoll is inviting guests to embrace health and wellness in the new year. Escape the hustle of the city life and immerse in a world of tranquility at the first-ever Medi Spain the Maldives. Located amidst the pristine blue waters of the Indian ocean, the overwater spa offers holistic treatments to soothe the senses, uplift the mind and soul. Guests who book the Premium All-Inclusive package for three nights or more will be offered a complimentary introductory 30 or 45-minute massage, depending on the villa category they have booked in, and a complimentary face scan for all guests. The treatments offered at Medi Spa are a combination of latest medical prevention, aesthetic dermatology fitness, nutrition and wellbeing ensuring a perfect rejuvenating package. The spa uses Dermo graph skin diagnosis system to create a personalized plan for guests, accompanied by Medi spa products. Other services available at the Heritance Aarah spa include Micro-needling, Nano-needling, mesotherapy, and medical facial treatments along with a range of facials and massages. Guests can also opt for body treatments such as body contouring, sculpting, scrubs, and wraps. The spa also offers fitness stays, weight loss programs, salon, and nail services along with wellness programs and activities. Alternatively, guests can book a stay in one of the Luxury Duplex Ocean Suites, spacious Ocean Villas, or the Beach Villas and participate in various wellness programs such as the 7 Day De-Stress and Detox, 7–14 Day Fitness stay and their 3 Day Path to Wellness Package.

heritancehotels.com/aarah/

01 A holistic luxury wellness experience 02, 03 Serene surroundings

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04 The Dolder Grand Spa 05, 07, 08 The spa’s offerings are guaranteed to soothe the body and the mind 06 Gorgeous exterior

September 2021

THE DOLDER GRAND SPA ZURICH, SWITZERLAND The multi award-winning Dolder Grand Spa is adding a new and revolutionary spa brand based on the Dolder Grand Life Balance philosophy to its exclusive spa range. The partnership between renowned cosmetics brand Dr Burgener Switzerland and the Dolder Grand City Resort is a further milestone in the history of the Hotel and underlines its commitment to providing innovative and exclusive services at the Dolder Grand Spa. The Swiss cosmetics company has put together a range of treatments and products that are especially tailored to meet the precise requirements of the Dolder Grand. A particular highlight of the range is the innovative Haute Couture concept, which assesses the condition of the skin using advanced technology to analyze various skin parameters. The results of this analysis are then used to create made-to-measure skincare products for daily use that are “customized for you only”. This concept represents an international

breakthrough in the world of luxury cosmetics research for Dr Pauline Burgener. The proposed hypotheses were scientifically proven by the skincare system – the evidence from this unique treatment range demonstrates that using skincare products that contain a personalized combination of ingredients provides significantly better results than using standard products. The wide range of new and professionally designed treatments by Dr Burgener Switzerland – including facials, body scrubs and wraps, massages and special endermology treatments – will not just be exclusively available to guests of the Dolder Grand Spa from October 2018. Hotel guests will also find selected products from the range as amenities in their rooms and can purchase the entire range of products in the Dolder Grand Spa Shop to use at home thedoldergrand.com

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THERMES MARINS MONTECARLO, HOTEL DE PARIS, MONACO As an introduction to the renovation program of the Hôtel de Paris, the mythical palace of the Casino to which they are directly linked, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo unveils new entirely reimagined areas to offer their clients even more space, technology, and serenity. Magnificent seaside, personalized treatments, outdoor jacuzzi, cryotherapy room - unique in Europe, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo of the 3rd millennium keeps its promise: to allow everyone to live a completely exclusive experience of well-being and treatments. In one day, alone or as a couple in a spa suite, or during a stay, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo has a range of suggestions meeting and even anticipating the needs of all. Relaxation, antiageing, slimming, beauty, recovery... Integrated in accordance with needs and desires, the complete care transports the client into an enchanting

interlude. Wellness Day, Initiation Day Spa, Exclusive Day Spa, Absolute Day Spa, the Days develop the (re)discovery of the establishment, the essence of its treatments and facilities. A first for a French well-being establishment, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo cryotherapy room offers the benefits of the great cold, already largely used by high level sports persons for recovery and performance improvement. In less than 180 seconds, between – 60° and – 110° C, we talk in seconds -, one session contributes to the treatment of muscle and inflammation conditions, but also to the recovery of jetlag, fighting against sleeping problems, feeling an antistress effect, not forgetting an anti-ageing effect popular in Nordic countries. montecarlosbm.com

September 2021

09, 10, 11 Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo was designed to induce serenity

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September 2021

Cooking with Love

Ritz-Carlton Executive Sous Chef, Heros de Agostinis reveals the unique qualities behind Italy’s beloved cuisine and his recipe for unforgettable culinary delights. WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR PASSION FOR THE CULINARY ARTS? When I think about the best cooks, everything always starts with the family and its roots. It was no different for me as my passion for the culinary arts started when I saw my grandmother cooking for the family for the first time. I spent days watching her in the kitchen cooking tasty traditional food. I remember being close to her, while enjoying all the pleasant aromas of the Italian and Eritrean cuisine. But what I will always remember is her telling me that the most important thing is to cook with love. When you put all your love and passion into a dish, the same love that you have for your family, nothing can go wrong. This is what makes me successful and in turn, makes my guests happy. Throughout the years, I have learned so much more through working with 3 Michelin-starred chefs such as Marc Veyrat, who specializes in molecular gastronomy; Heinz Winkler, in Munich; Heinz Beck, in Rome, celebrated as one of the best chefs in the world and the founder of the Order of the Knights of Italian cuisine; and Joel Robuchon, in Monte Carlo, who was named “Chef of the Century” by the guide Gault Millau.

WHAT SETS RITZ-CARLTON’S DINING EXPERIENCE APART FROM OTHERS IN BAHRAIN? Bahrain is so fortunate to have a great deal of restaurant options. The culinary variety is very rich and diversified. What attracted me the most to join The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is the wide selection of award-winning outlets. The team takes each and every guest on a culinary journey to Italy, Mexico, Thailand, France, the Middle East, India, Spain and more. I also wanted to take the opportunity to work with Yann Bernard Lejard, Director of Culinary and

Food and Beverage, and one of the Top 50 Chefs in the Middle East. Yann is an old colleague from our younger years in the kitchen of Master Chef Heinz Winkler, so when he called me and asked me to help him run the culinary team, I did not hesitate to say yes. I believe that together, we will be able to successfully elevate the Ritz-Carlton culinary experience. I’ve had the immense pleasure of working with Michelin-starred restaurants, but being able to manage a much bigger operation with 14 different outlets in the hotel will be the feather in my cap.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE INGREDIENTS TO WORK WITH? AND WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR SIGNATURE DISH?

ingredients and the process of carefully creating the dish. All Italian recipes are about enhancing the good flavors in hand. The taste, color, and texture of each dish, along with the consistency, makes it popular and the most appreciated cuisine. I believe that all Italian chefs outside of the country have a lot of responsibilities on their shoulders to develop and promote our food culture, using the finest ingredients that are 100% authentic. The Italian cuisine is also a good example of healthy eating. They are almost always made from scratch using natural ingredients with no artificial flavor. We use olive oil instead of other fats, and there are plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables involved.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EVER EXPERIENCE AT A RESTAURANT?

I have been cooking for most of my life and has used so many different ingredients, but what I cannot live without are spices, especially different types of ginger. I believe that spices are one of the many secrets to cooking and are also good for our health. Each spice has its own unique story and identifies the cultural heritage of the place where it came from. I love surprises and cooking out of the box, so I try to cook something different whenever possible and put my signature on it. Although, there is one dish that is truly close to my heart and my Italian heritage which is the Risotto with olive oil, aged parmesan, raw vegetables marinated in ginger dressing and raw scampi. It is the perfect mix of Italian flavors with authentic ingredients, cooked to perfection.

I had the best experience working at La Pergola Restaurant in Rome. Every day, just stepping into the kitchen made me feel very excited. Aside from working with the best people, I was able to put my signature touches in every dish that we served. When you are happy and fulfilled with what you are doing, it awakens your senses and it makes you proud. That is why I am so delighted to be working here now at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. There are so many great things to look forward to and I cannot wait to start making memories for our guests, especially when it comes to the rebirth of our signature Italian restaurant, Primavera, which will now be an Osteria Contemporanea.

WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THAT MAKE ITALIAN CUISINE SPECIAL?

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT SKILLS DO YOU NEED TO HAVE TO BE A SUCCESSFUL CHEF?

Italian cuisine is generally known for its simplicity, having many dishes with only three to four main ingredients. But that doesn’t mean that it’s easy to execute. As a chef, I focus on the quality of the

As with any other profession, you need to have unwavering passion and love for what you do. A great chef has to be passionate about food and cooking. He needs to genuinely enjoy the whole

“To become a great chef, you need many years of experience. All good things do.” process of procuring, preparing, cooking and serving food to guests. Cooking is also a science and an art at the same time so a successful chef should be an artist, ensuring impressive dishes are served on the table. While it might be easy to get overwhelmed in the kitchen, you also have to ensure you are able to handle the emotional aspect of a stressful work environment. On the same note, you need to be able to take criticism. You cannot shy away from what people have to say. Consistency is also the key. While some people have a natural gift for discerning flavors, some people have to learn them. Stressing the importance of process and ensuring the quality of ingredients makes everything easier. Lastly, you have to work with other chefs in the kitchen and it comes with ingrained responsibilities that include workforce management, budgetary oversight and more. You have to be a role model and ensure that you are able to keep the team better and more efficient.

WHO WERE THE BIGGEST INSPIRATIONS IN YOUR CAREER? OR THOSE WHO OFFERED THE BEST GUIDANCE? I can say, without a doubt, that it is 3 Michelinstarred chef, Mr. Heinz Beck. He is my mentor who gave me all the inspirations that I need. He taught me a lot of things and guided me in my career. I have also worked with many other different chefs around the world including 3 Michelin-starred chefs like Joel Robuchon, Heinz Winkler, and Marc Veyrat, from whom I have learned so much.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NOVICE CHEF? With the world going digital and the work of renowned chefs are getting more popular with the help of media and influencers, novice chefs should up their game and stop being scared. Not because you are new and will not be confident like the others. You have to teach yourself and let others teach you. Learning is a process that takes time. To become a great chef, you need many years of experience. All good things do. Your growth may not be as fast as the technology now but if you are passionate enough, you can hone your skills while taking pleasure in every step of the learning process. Be fearless! Most mistakes are still edible, and sometimes a mistake can actually be your masterpiece.

01 Ritz-Carlton Executive Sous Chef, Heros de Agostinis

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A Slice of Istanbul The preferred place to dine by the Turkish, ranging from everyday folk to the elite, Günaydın brings its delectable cuisine to Bahrain. 01 Günaydin Bahrain serves some of Turkey’s most beloved culinary creations

Created by butchers, Günaydın began in 1965 as a small artisan butcher shop in Istanbul’s historic ‘Bostanci’ neighborhood. With 40 restaurants in Turkey alone, Günaydın has become Turkey’s leading steakhouse, with a reputation for high-quality meats, craftsmanship and innovation. Larger-than-life co-founder of Günaydın, Chef Cüneyt Asan has specialized in butchery for more than 50 years, earning titles that include ‘The Professor of Meat’ and ‘The World’s Fastest Butcher’. Günaydın Bahrain boasts an entirely Turkish kitchen, with experienced staff who have relocated from Günaydın Istanbul to Bahrain. The restaurant has Turkish bakers who are 65 years old, with 50 years’ experience and still fiercely passionate about creating Turkish cuisine. Günaydın Bahrain can be found elegantly sprawled on the ground floor of the iconic Terminal Building in the heart of Bahrain’s food district Adliya. Upon entering the towering doors of Günaydın, diners are met with fresh meat cabinets and

butchers, ready to explain the outstanding selection and cuts of meat. A large open kitchen is the stage set for the ‘theater’ which is the unique Turkish Grill. Your dish can be observed in the procession from butcher shop to the heat of the awaiting Chef, then to the waiter and table. More drama ensues when the diner is witness to pure Turkish showmanship in plating up! Two majestic dining rooms transport diners directly to Istanbul, with some additional opulence and a nod to Art Deco detailing. The front dining room is flooded with natural light streaming through elegant arched windows. Beautifully marbled floors and enamored green columns softened with tall fingered palm trees. By contrast the smokers dining quarters are a twinkling display of moody, gold leaf, brass, buttery leathers and exotic woven fabrics. Once inside you will never want to leave. gunaydınbahrain.com

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“The restaurant has Turkish bakers who are 65

years old, with 50 years’ experience and still fiercely passionate about creating Turkish cuisine.” 05

02, 05, 06 Some of the delectable offerings at Günaydin Bahrain 03 Larger-than-life co-founder of Günaydin, Chef Cüneyt Asan, nicknamed ‘The Professor of Meat’ and ‘The World’s Fastest Butcher’ 04, 07 Patrons can enjoy their meals surrounded by exquisite interior

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REFINED TASTE

Experience a culinary journey with award-winning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.

3FILS DUBAI, UAE 3Fils opened in 2016 to critical acclaim and continues to draw customers with its casual atmosphere and modern Asian cuisine. This restaurant is piloted by a team who live by a diehard daringness to be different, to offer a story akin to the ‘2 cents worth’ opinion of dining in Dubai’ with every bite. Singaporean-born chef Akmal Anuar started 3Fils as a labour of love after helming Singapore’s much-lauded Iggy’s for a decade. He later moved to Dubai and opened Zengo at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa before branching out on his own.

With harbour-side community style dining, 3Fils serves up premium Asian dishes with a Japanese twist. The beach-shack vibes and harbour location are well suited to the eclectic menu, which features a range of innovative offerings. The restaurant can comfortably seat around 45 people inside and the team members are happy to help elevate your dining experience with a sense of comfort, discovery, and sharing. 3fils.com

September 2021

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YANNICK ALLÉNO À L’HÔTEL HERMITAGE MONTE-CARLO, MONACO Inside the Hôtel Hermitage in Monte Carlo, a legendary restaurant is beginning a new chapter with globally renowned chef Yannick Alléno’s at the helm. Following a comprehensive revamp, Vistamar, the hotel’s main restaurant, is now called Yannick Alléno à l’Hôtel Hermitage, and aims to entice guests with its refined offerings. Yannick Alléno owes his international reputation to his vision of cooking as part of French tradition with a thoroughly modern perspective. The arrival of the multi-starred chef is an event that is certain to bring joy to lovers of gourmet cooking, offering the region’s dining connoisseurs the chance to visit this exceptional restaurant. It is yet another asset for the discerning international clientèle of the Monaco Palace and the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer Group. The chef’s arrival is in its initial phase, with the deployment of the new menu accompanied by a reorganisation of the famous restaurant terrace that boasts an incomparable view over the Mediterranean and the Rock. In spring 2022, the second phase will be completed with the new interior architecture. This strategic and gastronomic repositioning, an extension of several projects undertaken by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer over the past five years, reflects the Group’s desire to look to the future, to continue to surprise, and to project its energy into new culinary offerings. montecarlosbm.com

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LA PERGOLA ROME, ITALY Mediterranean cuisine, a careful selection of quality ingredients, and distinctive culinary combinations, all come together at La Pergola. Acclaimed chef Heinz Beck oversees this threeMichelin-starred restaurant in Rome, Italy, delighting diners with his culinary prowess. The restaurant, set on the top floor of the Rome Cavalieri with stunning views of the Eternal City, was Italy’s first five-star hotel restaurant to receive the award. Michelin stars are bestowed only on restaurants that deserve a traveler’s special attention. Only an elite few are given three stars, signifying “exceptional cuisine – worth a special journey”. The guide is notoriously reluctant to grant three stars to hotel restaurants, which makes the award especially prestigious for the Rome Cavalieri. In La Pergola’s interiors, frescoed ceilings, warm cherry wood accents, fine furniture, and 18th and 19th-century artworks all combine with the unparalleled view of Rome to create an elegant setting for Chef Beck’s gourmet cuisine. On summer evenings, La Pergola’s panoramic terrace opens up for candlelit dinners accented with gold-plated silverware and opulent table settings. The continuously evolving Mediterranean cuisine features items such as “Fagotelli La Pergola,” whose pecorino filling produces what Chef Beck calls “an explosion of warm, rich flavour.” Chef Beck’s intention is to transmit emotions through harmoniously balanced aromas, flavours, and colours – sensory stimuli which are intertwined and blended in suffused and refined surroundings. romecavalieri.com

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EL PORTENO ARENA, MILAN, ITALY Following in the footsteps of the first restaurant, El Porteño Arena is also an unexpected dive into the warmth of the Argentine atmosphere, thanks to the original furnishings and the warm welcome typical of Argentines. A large bar counter welcomes the customer at the entrance and the restaurant is marked by a succession of rooms characterized by a unitary stylistic language, but different in theme, where cementine floors, with typical local patterns, alternate with wooden floors. The room characterized by the large window that overlooks the open kitchen, introduces a more intimate and reserved area, consisting of a series of small rooms with carpeted floors and finely decorated light walls that create a play of colors and materials of great impact. Featuring a unique atmosphere recalling the restaurants in Buenos Aires, this foodie location was born from the reuse of furniture, a refurbished counter and ancient doors imported from Argentina. The essence of the authentic portena atmosphere comes from the perfect balance between intimate halls, dim lighting and an international, romantic flare devoted to hospitality. The ingredients are the key to the menu, which featured the best of the Argentinean cuisine, such as the Asado meat,

as well as empanadas and pollo en escabeche, together with cosmopolitan influences resulting in raw meat, Sashimi Porteño (Fassona tenderloin marinated in soy, orange and Dijon mustard) or Sahimi Gazpacho (Fassona tenderloin with gazpacho, coriander mousse, snow peas, radish, black sesame and Maldon salt), together with various fresh pasta recipes. The gastronomic offerings start from the juicy grilled beef, pork and veal cooked slowly, with care and dedication, which have always been the national dish and translate the soul and passion of an entire people into inimitable flavors. Alongside the asado there are other typical Argentine dishes, such as empanadas or pollo en escabeche, prepared by chefs attentive to tradition and the quality of raw materials, essential in a cuisine that puts meat at the foundation of everything. Strong is the attention paid to vegetarians through the inclusion of various proposals such as vegetable empanadas, tofu cutlet and caramelized red onion in puff pastry. The dulce de leche is the protagonist instead of the desserts, but there is no shortage of panqueques, mousses, as well as homemade cakes. elportino.it

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AMBULA HERITANCE AARAH, MALDIVES The signature restaurant at Heritance Aarah Maldives, Ambula offers traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Ambula is well known for its contemporary ‘Heritance’ dining experience. Guests booking at Ambula must try the nine-course tasting menu with beverage pairing. The menu includes traditional specials from the Maldives and authentic Sri Lankan flavours with a modern twist. A must-try dish on the menu is the Curried Octopus wrapped in Maldivian “Roshi” prepared using sustainably homegrown pumpkin. The menu also incorporates plant-based options for vegan enthusiasts. Heritance Aarah Maldives invites guests to embark on a culinary journey to exploring a world of flavours and exotic spices. The latest luxury resort by the Sri Lankan hospitality group, Aitken Spence Hotels, Heritance Aarah is a gastronomic destination led by the award-winning Executive Chef Amila Silva featuring extensive dining options through six restaurants and five bars. The island won multiple awards from the prestigious IKA Culinary Olympics 2020 marking their third win in the culinary sphere since the opening of the resort. Recently voted as a Top Resort In the World by Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2020, Heritance Aarah Maldives is a 150 luxury villa property nestled on the island of Raa Atoli, a 45-minutes seaplane flight from Male International Airport. Aitken Spence Hotels is the hospitality arm of Sri Lankan blue-chip conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC which operates 23 hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman and India. The Company’s owned hotels are reflected under the Heritance, Adaaran and Turyaa brands, popular around the world for exceptional service, product and curated lifestyle experiences. The Company’s Maldives portfolio includes seven resorts including the luxury property Heritance Aarah as well as its Adaaran Resorts portfolio, whilst Sri Lankan resorts total 11, four in Oman and one in India heritancehotels.com

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ALAIN DUCASSE AT THE DORCHESTER LONDON, UK Awarded 3 Michelin stars, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester offers unrivalled contemporary French cuisine and impeccable service. A modern, light, and elegantly informal setting complements the restaurant’s forward-thinking approach to haute cuisine. Alain Ducasse is one of the world’s most decorated chefs, and above all, an aesthete and artisan of living and eating well. Known not only for his incomparable French cuisine, he has created innovative dining experiences reflecting international influences and consequently earned a reputation for phenomenal cuisine. Signature dishes include the “Sauté gourmand” of lobster, truffled chicken quenelles and homemade pasta; the Dry-aged beef, artichoke and bone marrow and the indulgent Baba like in ‘Monte-Carlo’. The restaurant’s stand-out feature is Table Lumière. Cocooned by a luminescent graduated oval curtain, inspired by traditional couture techniques, in homage to the worldleading fashion houses of Mayfair, the table is surrounded by 4,500 shimmering fibre-optics which drop dramatically from the ceiling, allowing guests to enjoy the ambiance and buzz of the restaurant whilst being nearly screened from view. alainducasse-dorchester.com

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YAKUMANKA GENEVA, SWITZERLAND Yakumanka is a Peruvian restaurant in the heart of Geneva serving authentic cuisine centred around fine seafood. The restaurant is a traditional cevicheria, headed by Chef César Bellido, Gaston Acurio’s right-hand man, who worked with him at the celebrated Astrid y Gaston restaurant, and was involved in opening the Yakumanka restaurant in Barcelona in 2017. An open kitchen with a long bar where our chefs prepare ceviches and tiraditos forms the heart of the restaurant. The bar offering a wide selection of pisco-based cocktails, has a warm and relaxed ambiance, with decor by designer Morendi Arcela, reminiscent of an authentic Peruvian cevicheria. The simple, marine-style elements of wood or rope are inspired by the popular local restaurants of Peru. Yakumanka was born from the search for the perfect pairing between Peruvian cuisine and the best product from the Iberian Coasts, always following Gastón’s philosophy, faithful to the concept of popular Peruvian cebichería, with abundant dishes and Creole aesthetics. A delight with the flavor of the sea. Recognized as one of the 20 most influential chefs in the world, chef Gastón Acurio’s culinary talent is rooted in the Peruvian gastronomic tradition, which, through its various restaurants, he has taken all over the world. Yaku manka” means pot of water in Quechua. This is the name that Gastón Acurio chose for his gift to the city of Barcelona; a hybrid between the acclaimed restaurant La Mar and the casualness of its hilarious Barra Chalaca. mandarinoriental.com

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An Unforgettable Premier

The Ferretti Group presented itself in grand style at the Cannes Yachting Festival, with an extraordinary fleet of 23 magnificent yachts including 5 new entries for the Riva, Pershing, Ferretti Yachts and Wally brands.

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01 The Pershing 6X

In the enchanting setting of the Côte d’Azur, five fantastic boats make their world debut, an unrivalled synthesis of style and design, comfort and livability, technological innovation, and performance. They are the Riva 68’ Diable, Riva 76’ Perseo Super, Pershing 6X, and Wally WHY200, joined by the majestic Ferretti Yachts 1000, the largest model ever built by the Cattolica Shipyard. Great interest for the presentation of the progress of the Full Custom 101 Wally, produced in Forlì, whose launch is planned for next year, for the long-awaited launch of the new sailing fleet, consisting of three models 110, 130 and 150 semicustom, and for the new 58wallypower, one of the six new projects signed Ferretti Group alongside Riva 102’, Riva 130’, Custom Line 140’, Ferretti Yachts 780 and Pershing TØ. The 43rd edition of the kermesse, a reference point in Europe for journalists and operators in the sector, opened once again this year with the Group’s annual press conference, during which Lawyer

Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group’s CEO, illustrated the main economic results achieved during the first 6 months of 2021. Ferretti Group closes the half-yearly period with excellent results: in the first six months of 2021, revenues reached 457 million euros, up 78% compared to the first half of 2020 when they reached 258 million euros, equal to 75% of the full-year value of 2020, which had closed at 611 million euros. EBITDA stood at €53 million, almost quadrupling the value achieved in the same period of 2020 (€13.5 million). Profit climbs to €23 million (€2.6 million in the first half of 2020) and surpasses the figure reached at year-end 2020 of €22 million. In June 2021, order intake reached EUR 493 million, compared to EUR 181 million in June 2020, increasing the order book to EUR 817 million. The Group is pursuing its investment plan as a core asset of its strategic line. In the three-year period 2018-2020 alone, more than 200 million

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“The Group is pursuing its investment

plan as a core asset of its strategic line.” euros were invested in product development and industrial capacity, enabling the Group to proceed at a rapid pace with the renewal of its range, with the launch of 23 new models. “In sport, this is the year of Italy, and in sailing, the champion is Ferretti Group, which is impressing everyone with amazing boats and record numbers. There really is no better time to return to Cannes with in-person attendance and a super fleet of 23 yachts and five world premieres that tell the story better than any words of our determination to create beauty and performance,” said Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. “Even the mathematics are on our side: the resounding figures for the first six months describe strong growth that rewards an industrial strategy geared to constant innovation. Suffice it to say that in the three-year period 2019-2021 alone, we presented 23 new series and semi-custom models, and will launch just as many in the next three years, renewing the range of all our brands. We’re in for a resounding end of the year!”.

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02 The Pershing 6X dashboard 03, 04 The Riva 76’ Perseo Super 05, 06 The Riva 68’ Diable

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Made to THRILL The most dynamic road car in Bentley’s -101year history, the new Continental GT Speed is the ultimate performance-focused interpretation of the world’s benchmark luxury Grand Tourer. We take it out for a Durrah-experience, discovering its true capabilities on Sicily’s hilly terrain. 01 The prestigious Bentley marque 02 The graceful and elegant Continental GT Speed

From the very first glance, the new Continental GT Speed is graceful and elegant. But what truly makes it special are the massive performance features contained within. Designed, engineered, developed, and handcrafted in Bentley’s carbon neutral luxury automotive factory, this Continental GT features advanced chassis technology harnessed specifically for the new model. New Electronic All-Wheel Steering enhances the dynamic nature of the Speed in BENTLEY and COMFORT driving modes. However, this is even more apparent in SPORT mode, as the steering combines with Bentley Dynamic Ride and an electronic limited slip differential for a level of agility unlike any other Bentley road car. Maintaining Bentley’s philosophy of the vehicle feeling progressive and secure, yet still be dynamic, this approach rewards drivers of all abilities. To achieve this philosophy in BENTLEY and COMFORT mode, overall grip is balanced between the front and rear wheels, in SPORT this mode has been calibrated with a more rear-biased torque–split in all driving scenarios. And for the first time in a Bentley, the latest generation of the Continental GT Speed introduces the use of an electronic rear differential (eLSD).

As we found out firsthand during this experience, performance-wise, the new GT Speed is nothing to scoff at. It’s the ultimate performancefocused expression of Bentley’s definitive Grand Tourer, yet maintains the luxury, comfort, and usability of its siblings. It is equipped with an uprated version of Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre W12 TSI engine, delivering 659 PS (650 bhp) – a 4 per cent increase of 24 PS over the current W12 model – whilst maintaining an extraordinary 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) of torque. With exceptional handling, this results in a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h) and 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds), a reduction of 0.1 second. As we went downward and upward, the new GT Speed was picturesque against the backdrop of Sicily’s mountainous landscapes. The muscular bodywork of the Continental GT has been amplified still further on the GT Speed. Unique exterior detailing complements a powerful, athletic stance, blending seamlessly with the effortless elegance inherent to the Continental GT. Speed models add a Dark Tint radiator grille and lower bumper grille, as well as unique, more sculpted sports sills, a Dark Tint radiator matrix and discreet Speed badging in chrome on the front fender. The cabin of the new Continental GT Speed

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“As we went downward and upward, the new GT

Speed was picturesque against the backdrop of Sicily’s mountainous landscapes.” 02

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“Beautiful inside and out, the new Continental GT Speed was simply a blast.” showcases Bentley’s expertise in creating the world’s finest automotive interiors. Handcrafted materials blend with unique trim and badging that are only available in the Speed and can be further personalized if desired. The Continental GT Speed’s credentials are further highlighted by a unique duotone color split handcrafted in hide and matching Alcantara, which is also applied to the steering wheel. The exterior badging is matched with an elegant Speed icon on the passenger fascia. Beautiful inside and out, the new Continental GT Speed was simply a blast. With its sportier edge, and a range of performance features that makes it more capable than ever before, it’s set to be the prize choice of diehard performance drivers. bentleymotors.com

07 03, 06 Beautiful inside and out 04, 05, 07 Unique exterior

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01 The New Rolls-Royce Ghost is the expression of each element in its purest form, built upon the architecture of luxury

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Simply Perfection Recently unveiled in Bahrain by EuroMotors, the new Rolls-Royce Ghost is the latest addition to the marque’s collection of the most refined vehicles in the world. We give the Ghost the Durrah treatment, taking it to some of the most iconic destination in the Kingdom.

A select number of the city’s motoring cognoscenti, VIP figures, and brand enthusiasts were exclusively welcomed at the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Bahrain Showroom, all within the parameters of the social distancing rules and regulations. The new Ghost took center stage and captured both the attention and imagination of all in attendance. Welcoming guests was none other than David McGoldrick, General Manager for RollsRoyce Motor Cars at EuroMotors Bahrain, who commented: “The New Ghost is a masterpiece of craftsmanship; it whispers its qualities; it doesn’t shout. Our founding father’s insightful saying ‘Small things make perfection, but perfection is no small thing’ stands true 116-years later and is embodied in the creation of our New Ghost.” Taking all in attendance on a product walk around, guests were able to fully immerse

themselves in the identity of New Ghost as David McGoldrick continued: “Succeeding the most successful product in the marque’s history, the New Ghost is the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet, reflecting ‘Post Opulent’ design philosophy, and rejecting superficial expressions of wealth. It is a beautiful, minimalist and highly complex product; the very essence of Rolls-Royce. We are delighted to reveal new Ghost here in Bahrain to our media friends and clients.” First destination in our test drive was the Mall of Dilmunia. Overlooking the Dilmunia grand canal and a lush gardens landscape, the mall redefines the shopping experience in Bahrain by adding urbanity to the retail experience through the development of a Boulevard. It provides visitors with the illusion that they are outdoors within a vibrant European cityscape.

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02 Effortless Doors are at the driver’s command. Opening and closing with accommodating ease, as the next innovation of Rolls-Royce’s iconic coach doors 03 With superior driving capability, the all-wheel drive establishes newfound versatility and on-road dynamism without compromising the Magic Carpet Ride 04 A masterpiece of autocars, taking centre stage in the Kingdom of Bahrain. RollsRoyce Ghost is a smooth driving experience with the world’s most refined engine

The most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet, the New Ghost succeeds the most successful product in the marque’s 116-year history. Reflecting ‘Post Opulent’ design philosophy and rejecting superficial expressions of wealth, this beautiful minimalist and highly complex monolithic sculpture is in perfect harmony with Ghost clients’ needs and perfectly in tune with the times. The Ghost looked magnificent at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Situated on an exclusive island, the 48-story hotel’s H-shaped building is unmistakable in Bahrain’s skyline. The guest rooms offer incredible views of the gulf, and its gorgeous 160-metre white sand beach curves along the island’s sun-drenched southern shore. With Bahrain Bay as the backdrop, the Ghost looked right at home. Built on rigid aluminium Rolls-Royce spaceframe architecture, allowing designers and engineers to incorporate more technology such as all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering for unprecedented poise and surefootedness. The New Ghost incorporates a world first Planar suspension system significantly increasing agility and effortlessness and is equipped with hallmark 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, delivering 571PS and 850nm. Our next stop was the beloved national attraction, Adhari Park. Spread across 165,000

square meters, it provides a complete leisure experience for the whole family with 38 exciting outdoor and indoor rides for people of all ages, a family entertainment center, 10 food outlets at the food court, dine-in restaurant, coffee shops and a lot more. For effortless egress, doors now electrically open as well as close and the interior components are tuned to specific resonant frequency to create a sense of serenity. The down lit Pantheon grille discreetly illuminates the Rolls-Royce iconography and the illuminated Fascia debuts featuring Ghost nameplate surrounded by more than 850 stars. We concluded the test drive at Bushido, a popular restaurant handcrafting the authentic flavors of Japan. Serving as more than a restaurant, bushido by buddha-bar is an ode to Japanese lifestyle in the Kingdom. Fused with signature Buddha-Bar flavors, their menu boasts a rich selection of dishes for every taste palette and offers an exemplary dining experience unlike any other. The Ghost truly embodies the values that the marque maintained over the decades, distilling them into a breathtaking creation that is equally grandiose in luxury and beautiful in its simplicity. rolls-roycemotorcars.com 03

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05 Effortless in style and substance, Rolls-Royce Ghost boasts the most luxurious palettes of jet black and the richest emerald 06 The iconic Spirit of Ecstasy guides Ghost gracefully, emerging directly through the car’s bonnet instead of sitting atop the grille, for the first time in history

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01 The Ferrari Roma, the latest coupe from Maranello 02 Strikingly beautiful interior 03 Harmonious design and proportions

September 2021

Ferrari Roma Set against the night lights of Shaikh Zayed Road, the Ferrari Roma glittered and shined as we drove it along the streets of Dubai. The latest coupé from Maranello, the Ferrari Roma features timeless and sublimely refined design and all the power and agility required to guarantee a unique driving experience. Its signature Italian styling is a contemporary reinterpretation of the carefree lifestyle of 1950s and ‘60s Rome, from which it takes its evocative name, Roma. Stylistically, the Ferrari Roma is characterized by clean and symbiotic forms. Its beautifully harmonious proportions and elegantly pure, balanced volumes are very much in line with the Ferrari mid-front-engined grand touring tradition of which the 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso and 250 GT 2+2 are the most iconic examples, and from which the car takes its inspiration. It embodies an extremely modern design language which underlines its authentic, refined styling. At the same time, its sleek lines retain the sporty vocation shared by all Ferraris. To guarantee best-in-class performance whilst still retaining the stylistic purity of its bloodline, Ferrari’s engineers developed several leading-edge technologies, most notably a mobile rear spoiler integrated into the rear screen designed to retain the car’s formal elegance when retracted and guarantee the downforce essential for the Ferrari Roma’s extraordinary performance by automatically deploying at high speeds. As we drove along Dubai’s landscapes, the Ferrari Roma was a true adventure on wheels. You could feel the sheer thrill when its capabilities are unleashed. The Prancing Horse’s new 2+ coupé

sports a V8 turbo engine that punches out 620 cv at 7,500 rpm, making it the most powerful in its segment. A member of the V8 family that has won the International Engine of the Year four years in a row, it features Variable Boost Management for instantaneous throttle response. With the adoption of Gasoline Particulate Filters, meticulous attention was also focused on the sound of the exhaust system which has been completely redesigned, removing the silencers and introducing new bypass valves. The car’s new 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox is more compact and 6 kg lighter than its 7-speed predecessor. As well as reducing fuel consumption and emissions, shifts are faster and smoother which makes the car even more responsive on the open road, but also especially comfortable in town and during stop & start driving situations. The Ferrari Roma’s chassis benefits from the modular technology developed by Ferrari for its new generation models. Both bodyshell and chassis have been redesigned to incorporate the latest weight reduction and advanced production technologies. In fact, 70% of its components are entirely new. The mid-front-engined 2+ Ferrari Roma has the best weight/power ratio in its segment (2.37 kg/cv) which enhances handling dynamics and responsiveness. Driving the Ferrari Roma around Dubai was pure joy. As we have come to expect from the legendary marque, it’s another example of how it combines inimitable performance and style to create the ultimate driving experience. ferrari.com

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September 2021

BMW M850i Driving the BMW 850i xDrive Gran Coupe along Bahrain’s roads, you discover what a marvel of engineering this model is. With its standalone body concept, plus powertrain and chassis technology designed squarely to engender supreme dynamic ability it embodies a brand of sporting flair unique in the luxury segment. The imposing power delivery of the 4.4-litre V8 engine is accompanied by a character-rich soundtrack further amplified by the M Sport exhaust system. With its maximum output of 390 kW/530 hp and peak torque of 750 Nm, the V8 engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds. The combination of precisely drawn lines and expansive surfaces that runs like a thread through the BMW brand’s new design language helps the exterior of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe to strike a unique balance between dynamism and elegance. The four-door coupe concept has been translated into a body of standout pomp and progressiveness. Parked against the backdrop of Bahrain’s skyline, the BMW 850i xDrive Gran Coupe 04

looked right at home. As well as its distinctive proportions, the design of the flanks and rear end also clearly distinguishes it from its 8 Series stablemates. Because the windscreen frame is more upright, the roofline is also higher, meaning additional headroom in both the front and rear. The roofline merges into the tail in a graceful sweep, via a fin-shaped transition in the vicinity of the C-pillars that emphasizes the elongated silhouette. The rear window, meanwhile, also follows a slightly steeper line in order to produce a larger boot aperture. Its distinctive style is also expressed in the design of the interior. The driving experience in both the front and rear is defined by a flawless symbiosis of dynamism and luxury. The extra length of the wheelbase and generously sized door apertures give passengers in the rear unprecedented legroom for a BMW coupe – and they are able to get in and out more easily than ever as well. The ambient lighting accentuates the forwardpointing lines inside the car to dramatic effect. Standard specification for the new BMW 8 Series

Gran Coupe also includes an instrument panel and door shoulders wrapped in fulled leather, electrically operated sports seats with head restraints integrated stylistically into the seat backrests, and Vernasca leather trim. The aerodynamic properties have been honed by features including an almost completely sealed underbody, active air flap control, Air Curtains and the super-slender exterior mirror bases. An intelligent material mix, meanwhile, has helped to reconcile exacting demands on body rigidity with the goal of minimizing weight. As well as the doors and the outer skin of the roof, the bonnet, front shear panel, engine subframe, front bulkhead and rear bumper support are all made from aluminum. Our time with the BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe was an absolute delight. Meticulously crafted, every feature has been designed to enhance the overall experience and strike a deep connection between driver and road. bmw.com

04 The BMW 850i xDrive Gran Coupe embodies a brand of sporting flair unique in the luxury segment 05 The roofline merges into the tail in a graceful sweep 06 The extra length of the wheelbase and generously sized door apertures give passengers more legroom 07 The model strikes a unique balance between dynamism and elegance

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September 2021

Genesis G70 The most athletic sports sedan offered by Genesis, the award winning G70 receives a performance and styling update. Up front, the new G70 gains the brand’s signature Quad Lamps, featuring super thin LED lamps which stretch outward like the wings of the Genesis emblem. The low-slung Crest Grille evokes an aggressive stance that emphasizes the G70’s performance character. Viewed from the side, the new G70’s profile retains the familiar long hood and short front overhang, communicating its agility even when parked. Four all-new wheel designs further enhance its presence, and a new air extractor positioned aft of the front wheel designed to optimize airflow efficiency. The Parabolic Line adds an elegant touch over the muscular surfaces, just a like a tailored suit for a world class athlete. At the rear, Genesis’ signature Quad Lamp taillights and prominent Genesis text over the clean of the surface of the trunk lid shows an unmistakable Genesis identity. Dual exhaust tips

and a body-colored diffuser add the finishing touches to the sport sedan’s updates. A total of 14 exterior colors will be offered, including two new metallic options and three matte finishes. Sedona Brown and Tasman Blue are the new metallic offerings, while Verbier White, Melbourne Grey and an all-new G70-exclusive color, Bond Silver, make up the matte-finish options. The new G70’s driver-focused cockpit benefits from a number of useful improvements as well. A larger, wide-view 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is positioned for easy reach at the center of the dashboard, and features both a Genesis-exclusive user interface and over-theair navigation updates. The instrument cluster is also enlarged to provide better readability, and the wireless smartphone charger is enhanced to provide improved charging speed. Finally, windshield and front door acoustic glass enhances interior quietness, making an already appealing environment more serene for all. The G70’s proven turbocharged, 2.0-liter, inline

four-cylinder and twin-turbocharged, 3.3-liter, V6 carry over, as does the 2.2-liter, turbodiesel engine. All models benefit from the newly added “Sports+” drive mode, which further optimizes engine and transmission programming, allowing drivers to take full advantage of the G70’s performance potential. In addition, the 3.3-liter V6 with Sports package benefits from the addition of a Variable Exhaust Valve System, which gives the car a more aggressive exhaust signature, and a new Dynamic AWD System offers a built-in drift mode. The new Genesis G70 includes a wide array of improved driver safety & convenience features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Safe Exit Warning (SEW), Rear Cross-Traffic CollisionAvoidance Assist (RCCA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Multi Collision Brake (MCB), Rear Occupant Alert (ROA), and Back-up guide lamp. genesis.com

08 The athletic G70 has undergone a style and performance upgrade 09 At the rear, signature Quad Lamp tail lights highlight the unmistakable Genesis identity 10 The new Genesis G70 features an array of improved driver safety & convenience features

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September 2021

Audi A3 and S3 Audi Bahrain introduces the all-new Audi A3 Sedan, S3 Sedan, and for the first time ever is bringing the powerful S3 Sportback into the region – a brand new entry into the hot hatch segment. Since Audi advanced and elevated the premium compact segment with the A3 in 1996, the line-up of models has continued to expand and improve with the newest generation of the much-loved A3 family promising to be the best one yet. The new A3 Sedan features compact proportions and a sporty design. The wide Singleframe and large air inlets at the front end accentuate their dynamic character. The shoulder of the body extends in a smooth line from the headlights to the rear lights. The area below is curved inward. This is a new element of Audi’s design that puts a stronger emphasis on the wheel arches. The digital daytime running lights of the Matrix LED headlights are a further innovation and are available as an option. They consist of a pixel array made up of LED segments in a three by five arrangement that create special light signatures and make the new A3 immediately recognizable. Digital, easy to understand, and intuitive: The new A3 Sedan features a newly developed control

and display concept with a flat menu structure and symbols that are familiar from smartphones. Audi has replaced the rotary pushbutton on the center tunnel with a large MMI touch display that provides acoustic and haptic feedback. Equipped with the optional Audi pre sense front, the collision avoidance assist, and the lane departure warning, the new A3 sedan helps prevent accidents with other road users and offers a high level of safety. The new S3 models display their dynamic character from the very first glance. The front is dominated by the Singleframe with its large rhombus-patterned grille and impressive air inlets, while the housings of the exterior mirrors have a gleaming aluminum look. The shoulder of the body extends in a strong line from the headlights to the rear lights. The areas below are curved inward – a new element of Audi’s design that places a stronger emphasis on the wheel arches. With 290 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the new S3 models accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and in conjunction with the lightning fast seven-speed S tronic gearbox towards an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h.

The driver can use the standard series Audi drive select system to make the sound of the powerful four-cylinder turbo engine even crisper. The strikingly sporty design of the new S3 models continues on the inside – with the new, compact shifter for the seven-speed S tronic and decorative aluminum or carbon inlays whose design evokes the shape of the headlights. The cockpit is focused on the driver. The distinctive air vents form a single unit with the instrument cover, underlining the sporty character. The driver assist systems in the new S3 models also demonstrate Audi’s technical expertise. Audi pre sense front, swerve assist with turn assist, and lane departure warning all have the potential to prevent accidents and are included as optional features. Further assist systems, such as lane change and exit warnings as well as the cross-traffic and park assist systems, are available optionally as well. The Adaptive cruise control maintains the speed and distance to the vehicle in front and the efficiency assist supports an economic driving style. audi-bahrain.com

11 The new S3 models boast a dynamic character 12 The new A3 Sedan features compact proportions and a sporty design 13 The newest generation A3 promises to be the best one yet

14 The driver-focused cockpit 15 The strikingly sporty design of the new S3

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September 2021

Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner Jeep presents the Gladiator Sand Runner, the ultimate in high-speed off-road capability and performance in desert environments. Courtesy of the brand’s renowned 4x4 system and significant suspension upgrades, which underwent extensive testing over harsh sand and desert terrain for vehicle durability and protection, the Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner is the first Jeep in the Middle East to wear the ‘Desert Rated’ badge. Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner models feature new, specially-tuned FOX™ 64-mm (2.5-inch) internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs, industry-exclusive FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, a reinforced frame, a 25-mm (1-inch) front suspension lift with a silver front skid plate, stronger axles with cast-iron steering knuckles, aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters and standard 33-inch tires. All of these standard features enable the Gladiator Sand Runner to become the Jeep brand’s first Desert Rated vehicle.

The starting point for the Sand Runner’s new level of capability is the Gladiator’s proven Command-Trac 4x4 system, which features a twospeed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio and heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a 4.10:1 rear axle ratio and electronic-locking rear differential as standard. The Jeep Command-Trac 4x4 system is used to provide higher 4LO (low range) operating speeds for climbing sand dunes and other challenging desert events. To earn the Desert Rated badge, Jeep engineers equipped the Gladiator Sand Runner with speciallytuned high-performance FOX 64-mm (2.5-inch) internal bypass shocks to maximize handling, comfort and bottom-out resistance on highspeed sand runs. The FOX shocks contain internal passages that allow fluid to bypass the piston through regulated ports as it moves through the suspension travel. The result is a predictable ride over normal off-road driving conditions, with the

16 The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower 17, 18 The Jeep brand’s first Desert Rated vehicle 19 Striking interior

ability to ramp up damping force in extreme use. The Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and features engine stopstart (ESS) technology as standard equipment. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque, an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. The 2021 Jeep Gladiator benefits from the popular V-6 engine’s low-range torque, which is needed when out on the dunes or during demanding conditions, such as hauling cargo. With the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, the Gladiator Sand Runner boasts an impressive crawl ratio of 52.6:1– making cresting a dune or scaling any obstacle on the trail easy. jeep.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

Xiaomi CyberDog Robot Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has unveiled a quadrupedal robot named CyberDog: an experimental, open-source machine that the firm says “holds unforetold possibilities.” The sleek and futuristic looking CyberDog can respond to voice commands and follow its owner like a real dog. It is nimble enough to perform backflips, has a maximum payload of 3kg, and can walk at 3.2 meters per second. Equipped with an array of cameras and touch sensors, a GPS module, and an ultra-wide-angle fisheye lens, the robot can navigate semi-autonomously. As one of the most affordable quadruped robots currently on the market, it is perfect for research engineers and hobbyists who want to develop code and applications for a robot. mi.com

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September 2021

Balenciaga H2O Bottle in Black Hydration is essential, which means water bottles have become full-time companions. This option from Balenciaga is more elegant than most. Made from stainless steel, it has a matte black exterior finish with an “H2O” graphic on one side and small “Balenciaga” branding on the other. It closes with an attached screw top and measures roughly 5” wide by 7” high. balenciaga.com

Balmuda Balmuda the Speaker Like a lantern of sound, The Speaker by Balmuda sends its output in all directions. Its 77mm full-range driver sits atop an organic glass tube, using the air inside like a spring to boost bass response. Also inside the tube are three LED lights, housed in vacuum tube-like enclosures, that react to the music playing in real-time. Its rechargeable battery is good for up to seven hours of playback, and Bluetooth and 3.5mm aux inputs ensure compatibility with most audio sources. Currently a Japanese exclusive, a global launch has yet to be announced. balmuda.com

Fendi x Rimowa Cabin Size Trolley This product is part of a special collaboration project between FENDI and RIMOWA®, two leading companies in their respective fields, united in their Italian and German excellence and expertise. Fourwheeled, cabin-sized aluminum suitcase with a black finish, with an FF motif and black Cuoio Romano leather details. This light, durable style has two handles, a telescopic handle, double-fastening and combination lock. The internal compartment is lined in a fabric with an FF motif and has a partition with a zipped pocket and adjustable straps. Address tag included. fendi.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

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September 2021

IWC x Café Triton Driving Gloves Inspired by the IWC tradition on motorsports and Café’s automotive passion, the brand presents the IWC Racing Works version of their famous Triton driving gloves. With only the very best pieces of specialty leather selected for this collaboration, these driving gloves are incredibly pleasant to the touch and resistant. Its Cobrax Original closure and the elastic zone by the wrist provides security and increase comfort. The perforated leather allows also greater perspiration. It is the perfect complement for driving so you can feel the road. cafeleather.com

IWC x Café Pilot’s Bag An exclusive travel bag handmade in Spain by master craftsmen, this Pilot’s bag is manufactured with carefully selected 100% premium vegetable-tanned leather. Designed in conjunction with IWC and inspired by aviation, just like the brand’s Pilot watch collection, the bag offers a very simple opening that allows you to insert and remove the garments without them being wrinkled. cafeleather.com

Louis Vuitton Pizza Box Drawing inspiration from music and travel culture, the Pizza Box is the perfect gift of choice for transporting vinyl, music discs or accessories. With details reminiscent of vintage House trunks, this refined piece features signature Monogram canvas marked with an exclusive Louis Vuitton message. A leather closure keeps the box secure. louisvuitton.com

Louis Vuitton x NBA Basketball Hoop Both decorative and functional, this playful LV x NBA Basketball hoop fits perfectly on the back of a door. Part of a collaboration with the NBA, it comes with a mini basketball and colorful stickers to customize its plexiglass board. Polished Louis Vuitton trunk corners and a woven Monogram Flower net add delightful House signatures. louisvuitton.com

MB&F + L’Epée 1839 Balthazar Balthazar is a sophisticated and imposing high-precision robot clock displaying jumping hours, retrograde seconds and a 35day power reserve. Weighing in at over eight kilograms (18 pounds) and standing nearly 40 centimetres tall (16 inches), Balthazar is composed of 618 beautifully finished, microengineered components. But beware . . . there is also a dark side to Balthazar, as there is in all of us. Rotate his torso 180 degrees and discover a terrifying Balthazar, along with a dual hemisphere moon phase indicator that should help you anticipate the evolutions of your mood. Balthazar is available in limited editions of only 50 pieces per colour in black, silver, blue or green armour. mbandf.com

Montblanc Writers Edition Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Collection The new Montblanc Writers Edition Sir Arthur Conan Doyle collection is inspired by the many tales of Detective Sherlock Holmes and the extraordinary life of his originator with design details telling the stories that have captivated readers for generations. Known as one of the essential instruments of any detective solving a crime or mystery, the clip on each of the editions is shaped like a magnifying glass in homage to the great Sherlock Holmes. The exceptional author´s likeness can be found engraved on every nib on each of the four editions that make up the collection, accompanied by a special story element from the theme of the respective edition. montblanc.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

Technogym Unica Designed in 1986 by Nerio Alessandri, Technogym’s Founder and CEO, UNICA marked the beginning of the home fitness era. For the first time, thanks to its compact and ergonomic design, it was possible to concentrate an entire gym in 1.5 square meters and allow 25 different exercises with only one product. technogym.com

Devialet Phantom II Sage Green Speaker Joining as the newest and most exclusive member of Devialet’s critically acclaimed Phantom range, this latest ultra-compact speaker boasts 400 Watts RMS of high-fidelity sound in an easily transportable format. Phantom II reflects Devialet’s dedication to audio excellence, reproducing sound as the artist intended: all the details with zero distortion, zero saturation or background noise. Just pure sound reproduction. One of the most powerful ultracompact loudspeakers on the market, Phantom II is precision engineered, both technically and physically, for optimal audio performance. Phantom II Sage Green is compatible with AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, or jack (analogue or digital). When the 98dB of sound is unleashed, the sleek aluminium panels of the Phantom II Sage Green become a striking statement of power. Only 1,000 pieces are available worldwide. devialet.com

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September 2021

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

Casa Dolce&Gabbana Impeccable craftsmanship, love for the ‘fatto a mano’ (handmade), respect for tradition, and the quest for innovation, are all represented with Dolce&Gabbana Casa. The brand’s creations stimulate the senses of sight, touch, hearing, and smell, all of which contribute to building a home tailored to your personality, passions, and tastes. For this collection, Dolce&Gabbana’s collaboration with various artisans has led them to one of the most evocative places in Venice: the Scuola Grande Della Misericordia, giving rise to pieces which capture the elements of the Dolce Vita and joie de vivre. dolcegabbana.com

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September 2021

Dolce&Gabbana x Baci Perugina Dolce Vita Limited Edition Pralines The masterful result of a collaboration between the creativity of Dolce&Gabbana and the expert chocolatiers of the Perugina School of Chocolate, Dolce Vita is a new harmony of flavours and textures: the soft gianduia heart, the lemon-flavored nibs and the crunchy whole hazelnut, all coated in delicate white chocolate with notes of vanilla - a taste experience that brings with it the scents and atmospheres of the Mediterranean. The Limited Edition is made even more special thanks to 35 unique affirmations from Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, found inside each praline. dolcegabbana.com

Fornasetti Pennini Magazine Rack The Atelier’s imagination transforms even everyday objects into creations of art. This is the case with this hand-painted and decorated metal magazine rack with gold accents, in which a series of nibs allude to Fornasetti’s typical graphic style. Expertly handmade, each piece is unique and represents exquisite craftsmanship. fornasetti.com

Gucci Freesia Medium Murano Candle Vivid hues define a collection of Murano glass candles for Ouverture. Metal tops with engraved knobs complement their construction. This one, presented in light pink, contains a blend of wax infused with aromatic extracts and essential oils that combine to create a scent of freesia—a blend of violet leaf and resinous galbanum notes. gucci.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

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September 2021

Karl Lagerfield Tubereuse Candle Fill your home with your favourite scent from the Karl Lagerfeld Homeware collection. This sumptuously scented candle comprises a A lavish base of amber and cedar is topped with a blend of sage and patchouli. The glass candle holder features the KARL signature logo karl.com

La DoubleJ Set of Four Gold-Plated Porcelain Espresso Cups and Saucers La DoubleJ’s espresso cups and saucers are made in collaboration with Ancap - Italy’s most renowned porcelain producer. This set of four is painted with different vibrant colors and detailed with gleaming gold-plated tips. They’re a great way to bring joy to the everyday and will delight guests each time you use them. ladoublej.com

Louis Vuitton Horizon Light Up Speaker Inspired by the Toupie bag, the new Louis Vuitton Horizon Light Up Speaker reinvents the world of portable audio. At home, it is a piece of artwork in metal and noble leather, adorned with the House’s emblematic signatures. When you use it, a colourful lightshow synchronises to the beat, with a digital interpretation of the iconic Monogram Flower. With its wireless connectivity and high-quality 360° sound, it is an elegant and discreet travel companion, perfectly in tune with Louis Vuitton’s Spirit of Travel. louisvuitton.com

Rimowa Essential Cabin Neon The limited-edition RIMOWA Essential Cabin Neon in Pink unites the very best of German engineering and design. Crafted from premium polycarbonate, this innovative material creates a gleaming shell in which the suitcase grooves and corners play with light diffraction for a vibrant neon effect. Its translucent exterior contrasts against the structure of its black interior – an effect that is heightened further by the matte black handles, zipper, logo badge and wheels. This durable and lightweight cabin suitcase is designed to fit in most airline overhead compartments and is the ideal travel tool for 2-3 days of travel. It includes a complimentary leather luggage tag and a trio of reflective stickers whose black accents and reflective shine mirror the case’s appearance. rimowa.com

Smythson Panama Three-Drawer Jewellery Box Crafted in the brand’s signature crossgrain leather, the Panama three-drawer jewellery box is an elegant and timeless addition to any dressing table. Each drawer is lined with nubuck to keep your treasures protected and has dedicated compartments for rings, earrings and necklaces. Each box secures with our classic Smythson lock. smythson.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

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September 2021

Techogym Bike Technogym Bike offers users scientific tracking of their power output and unrivalled user-friendliness thanks to a patent-pending on-the-fly system that enables to find the perfect position of the handlebar and seat with one simple touch. The flywheel resistance system is equipped with the strongest type of permanent magnets, the neodymium, to assure the smoothest and most consistent ride. Intuitive graphics and tactile clicks every 45 degrees make adjustments, between the 20 resistance levels, incredibly easy and accurate. In addition to this, Technogym Bike offers you the best road feeling effect. technogym.com

Tiffany Bocce Ball Set with Canvas Carrying Case Tiffany artisans transform utilitarian items into handcrafted works of art. With elegant touches of Tiffany Blue®, this bocce ball set is the perfect addition to any beach day. Easily carry this family-friendly game up and down the beach in the smartly designed canvas carrying case, or display it in your home on the oak platform. tiffany.com

Anna Sling Tumi x Missoni Merging Missoni’s Italian savoir-faire with TUMI’s functionality, this exclusive capsule collection celebrates a shared appreciation of design excellence. The collaboration reimagines this Voyageur sling with the fashion house’s archival zig-zag motif. Throw it on and go hands-free, while carrying your essential items securely and in an organized fashion. tumi.com

D I S C OV E R R E A L I TA L I A N C O F F E E I N A L L I T S F O R M S

FINAL PEARL

Jewellery Arabia 2021 The long-awaited jewellery and watch event that forms a milestone in the Bahrain calendar has been confirmed to take place from 16-20 November 2021 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain who has granted his support to the event earlier in the year. The returning consumer event welcomes a host of new brands this year, to the joy of jewellery and watch shoppers. With the continuous easing of travel requirements coming into Bahrain, multiple renowned international brands have already confirmed their first-time presence at Jewellery Arabia, amongst them Davidor, Fullord, Yvel and Beauregard, all bringing stunning jewellery and watch pieces specially to the Middle East market. Jewellery lovers are set to be dazzled by the increased range of products this year. Bringing together over 550 jewellery and watch brands from 35 countries, the prestigious exhibition displays a huge range of classic and contemporary designs, collectors’ timepieces, precious gems, clocks, fine writing instruments, luxury accessories and more. After a year of absence, Jewellery Arabia returns with a fresh look inspired by Parisian street shopping in Hall 1, a brand-new VIP entrance and a large choice of F&B options for visitors to enjoy a relaxing break during their journey at the event. With the aim of ensuring all of its attendees’ utmost health and safety, event organizers Informa Markets are ensuring that local government guidelines are respected but also going beyond by implementing a series of health and safety measures. jewelleryarabia.com

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Bahrain International Trophy 2021 The third running of the Bahrain International Trophy is set to take place on Friday 19th November 2021 at Sakhir Racecourse. The race has attracted high-quality international entries in its first two years, including five individual Group 1 winners in 2020. Last year’s race was won by the locally trained Simsir, who just edged out Global Giant (John Gosden) and Sovereign (Aidan O’Brien). The race is open to horses rated over 95 and is run over a distance of 2000 meters (10 furlongs). There will be three races which will grant “Automatic Invitation” to the winners even if not originally entered, taking place on Friday August 13th - The Curragh – Fitzdares Royal Whip Stakes (G3), Saturday August 21st York - The Sky Bet and Symphony Group Strensall Stakes (G3), and Saturday October 9th Newmarket - The Darley Stakes (G3). Entries for the race close on Tuesday 5th October. The race is organized by the Bahrain Horse Racing Affairs Directorate (BHRA), the regulatory authority governing all aspects of horseracing in the Kingdom of Bahrain. bhra.gov.bh

September 2021

HAPPY SPORT