Durrah 56 by Durrah Luxury Magazine

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 04 SUMMER 2022

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WELCOME

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First Impression

A word from the editor-in-chief

June 2022

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 04 SUMMER 2022

BD 3.5 SR 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

Durrah is back with yet another issue full of exciting new content from the world of luxury! I’d like to begin by extending my congratulations to HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, on the win of Bradsell, the horse owned by HH in the Coventry Stakes G2 at Royal Ascot International Festival. I also congratulate HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports on his horse Eldar Eldarov winning Queen’s Vase glory in final stride. This time around, we talk to Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, whose RAK Art Foundation empowers artists by providing them with opportunities and encouraging cross-cultural collaborations. We discuss his private collection of works by prominent artists from around the region, which is on display at the converted traditional Bahraini House where he was raised. We also chat with A. Lange & Söhne CEO, Wilhelm Schmid, who shares with us the unique

qualities behind the Richard Lange Minute Repeater and the Odysseus. Chef Eneko Atxa talks about his unique dining outlets and his take on the traditional Basque culinary cuisine. And of course, Durrah wouldn’t be complete without its picks of the most desirable items from the world of luxury. Fashion, fragrances, designer bags and shoes, and much more are in store for our dear readers. The world has a lot to offer to the sophisticated man and woman of today, and Durrah will always be your guide to that world. We hope you will be as delighted with this issue as we were delighted in making it.

COVER IMAGE Joyous Celebrations 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

CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

June 2022

Volume 14 Issue 04 Summer 2022

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Editor’s Letter

Gulfstream introduces the G800 and the G400

First Impression

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Double the Joy

Bradsell and Eldar Eldarov win for Bahrain

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Creating a Renaissance

Soaring High

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A Timeless Bond OMEGA and Snoopy

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A Feat of Savior-Faire

Passionate Refinement

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Clash de Cartier

Tassin upholstery

Interview with RAK Art Foundation founder, Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa

Chopard Loves Cinema

Painting Outside the Lines

Haute Joaillerie collection inspired by movie masterpieces

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Interview with A. Lange & Söhne CEO, Wilhelm Schmid

Vacheron Constantin’s new Métiers d’Art watch series

A Legacy of Perfection

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World’s Newest Wonder

The biggest cruise ship in the world, Wonder of the Seas

Interview with Bahrain-based painter Hisham Sharif

A Tribute to Civilizations

NFT Pioneers

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Champion of Golf

Hublot Big Bang Unico Golf

Interview with Leena Al Ayoobi and Abdulrahman Almokla

Culinary Pleasures

Carna by Dario Cecchini

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The Dolce&Gabbana Coral collection

The latest in designer brand women’s shoes

Fresh and Bold

By the Sea

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Dior men’s Fall 2022 collection

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Perfumes for men

Stepping in Style

Alluring Fragrances

Ceaseless Imagination

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The Ralph Lauren Spring 2022 Women’s Collection

The Tila Chair by Shepherd Studio

he latest in luxury cosmetics

Beauty Trends

An Eclectic Mix

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The latest in luxury cosmetics

Trendy Fashion Saks Fifth Avenue

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Tradition and Modernity

The Oscar de la Renta Spring-Summer 2023 bridal collection

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The Power of Goodbye

The Amjad Khalil Spring-Summer 2022 collection

Celebrating Connections

Alexander McQueen’s Autumn-Winter 2022 Collection

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Exquisite Style

The latest in ladies’ brand name bags

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Quality and Class

The latest in high-end men’s shoes

Monument to the Arts Unmatched Design

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Disrupting the Narrative ART IS

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A Sensory Journey The Lavazza Museum

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New Green Haven

Hadiqat Al Diyar by Diyar Al Muharraq

CONTENTS

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Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique

Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort

Reviews of the latest luxury brands in the automotive industry

The Ultimate in Prestige

Exquisite Luxury

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Luxurious shopping destinations

The best hotels in the world

Boutique Experience

Redefining Hospitality

Driving In Style

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Must Haves for Men

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Luxury items for men

Lyre’s non-alcoholic beverages

The best spas in the world

Must Haves for Women

A Flair for Flavor

Serene Treatments

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Luxury items for women

Interview with Chef Eneko Atxa

Top dining locations

Orientalism Style

Culinary Excellence

Refined Taste

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The Missoni Home collection

Interview with Topaz Detailing Founder Nabil Naamo

Unmistakably Italian

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Mesmerizing Performances

Interview with Actor and musician Tzachi Halevy

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A book by Assouline

Unrivaled Quality

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A book by Assouline

Class and Comfort Hongqi H9

Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage

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Final Pearl

48th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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June 2022

Double THE JOY Bahrain has won two prominent horse races recently, as “Bradsell”, owned by HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, won in the Coventry Stakes G2 at Royal Ascot International Festival, while Eldar Eldarov, owned by Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, snatched Queen’s Vase glory in final stride.

HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, has expressed utmost happiness at the victory achieved by the horse “Bradsell”, owned by His Highness, in the Coventry Stakes G2 at Royal Ascot International Festival. HH Shaikh Nasser was present during the race with HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of the General Sports Authority and President of Bahrain Olympic Committee. The event witnessed a large audience of equestrian enthusiasts. Bradsell raced to victory thanks to the smart skills of jockey Hollie Doyl who followed the strategy and plans tailored by trainer Archie Watson to add a new achievement for the Bahraini equestrian sport at the international level. “We are happy with Bradsell’s victory which adds Bahrain’s name to the champion list of this international event. This achievement is the result of the support and backing of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the interest of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister which have positively impacted the development of the equestrian

sport and enabled it to achieve exceptional results that cement Bahrain’s position on the equestrian sport map at the continental and international levels,” HH Shaikh Nasser said. “It was hard to predict the winner in this race, but we had full confidence in Bradsell after he was perfectly trained by Archie Watson as well as considering the high capabilities of jockey Hollie Doyl,” HH Shaikh Nasser added. Meanwhile, in the G2 Queen’s Vase Stakes, Eldar Eldarov justified his strong home reputation by snatching victory in a thrilling finish. The unbeaten colt joined Zechariah on the line and, after a considerable wait, the judge finally called David Egan’s mount the winner, much to the delight of favorite backers. After breaking slowly, Egan was forced to hold the 5/2 market leader up towards the back of the field but the splits came early in the straight and the son of Dubawi made up ground hand over fist to reel in the leader in the final stride. It was heartache for Zechariah (20/1) and jockey Colin Keane, with Hafit (9/1) just a neck off the front pair in third. It was a 10th Royal Ascot success for trainer Roger Varian. ascot.com

“We are happy with Bradsell’s victory which adds Bahrain’s name to the champion list of this international event.”

01, 02, 06, 07 HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs and HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports

SPECIAL FEATURE

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03 HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports 04, 08 HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs 05 The Royal Ascot International Festival

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

01 Founder, Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa 02 The RAK Art Foundation

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Creating a

RENAISSANCE Founded by Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, the RAK Art Foundation empowers artists by providing them with opportunities and encouraging cross-cultural collaborations. It showcases a private collection of works by prominent artists from around the region in a converted traditional Bahraini House, where its founder was raised. Shaikh Rashid shares with Durrah his goals for the Foundation, the newly announced RAK Architecture Prize, and more.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE THROUGH THE RAK ART FOUNDATION? The RAK Art Foundation was initially established as a platform for the arts in Bahrain. We’ve been planning and developing activities gradually, first by simply making our permanent collection accessible to the public. In doing so, we hope to inspire the public, encourage artistic expression amongst young artists, sow the seeds for creative thought and help grow an understanding and appreciation of creativity within our culture. Our private tours have already done that, we host guests from all walks of life and all backgrounds, many hear about us and are simply drawn to the Foundation for the love of art and architecture. Nurturing a diverse community is so important and despite our differences we share a common appreciation for art. Everyone that visits the Foundation shares a desire to learn and to be inspired. This in turn, inspires me. I feel like we have the opportunity and responsibility to play an important role in the development of the art scene in Bahrain. For this to develop organically, museums, galleries, public spaces, exhibitions, and educational programs are necessary.

THE RAK ART FOUNDATION PROMOTES ART AND ARCHITECTURE. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THE TWO?

All creative disciplines are connected in one way or another; creatives are generally driven by the same imaginative spark. The word ‘art’ is so broad. It encompasses so many different disciplines and intersects the field of architecture in so many ways. Many contemporary artists must contemplate architectural concepts when developing their work, as they consider the flow of space, light, and the surrounding environment. Similarly, architects think like artists; how does space impact the spectator? What kinds of emotions and feelings does building design illicit? What about its historical value? I believe architects are artists and artists architects of creation.

YOU RECENTLY ANNOUNCED THE LAUNCH OF AN ARCHITECTURE PRIZE. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT? WHO CAN PARTICIPATE AND HOW ARE THE WINNERS REWARDED? The RAK Architecture Prize was an idea that I had been considering for a while. There are so many talented artists and architects in Bahrain that feel discouraged when they complete their studies, many are not certain about what path they want to take, where it will lead them and if there is even opportunity in Bahrain. The RAK Architecture Prize was announced with the intention to encourage the youth, whereby it presents an opportunity to

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03 work on a project and potentially be rewarded and recognized for an idea. Furthermore, visual culture and an understanding and appreciation of our landscape is of utmost importance – what we see around us should inspire us. I was curious to see what concepts young architects would develop when presented which this kind of opportunity. What kinds of structures inspire them? How would they incorporate aspects of their heritage into design? How would they use this opportunity to think creatively? Applicants were asked to submit designs for a potential Performance Centre in Adhari, that would encompass both an exhibition space and a performance space, for music and theatre. The winning prize is BD5,000 and we also plan to exhibit the submissions at some point after the summer, allowing for applicants to get the recognition that they deserve and to network with one another.

YOU’VE MADE YOUR PRIVATE COLLECTION AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSIONS? There are so many works that I love, I really can’t pinpoint a favorite or most prized. They are all valuable to me but for different reasons. Each tells a story about their creator and often also tells a story about my experience acquiring them. Frank Stella’s ‘The Honor and Glory of Whaling’ (1991) has prominence. The work itself is loud, vibrant, and bold. Frank Stella is one of the most celebrated artists of our time that was ahead of his time in so many ways when he started painting in the 1960s. His fearlessness inspires me. I also love Alberto Biasis’ ‘Variable Round Image’ (1990). His use of materials and manipulation of PVC strips is incredible. The work is illusive, dynamic, and meditative all at once and these are characteristics that I try to capture and embody within my own work. When visiting my collection many people are interested in knowing about a water damaged work that I have protected within a glass cabinet. It is a print by Henry Moore that I bought when I was studying in the UK. I was about 18 when I purchased it. Interestingly, this is not the most financially valuable piece in the collection, but it definitely holds sentimental value.

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WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A WORK OF ART BEFORE ACQUIRING IT FOR YOUR COLLECTION? DO YOU HAVE A PREFERENCE WHEN TO COMES TO ARTISTS AND THEIR WORK? It really varies, sometimes something just catches my eye and speaks to me, through the colors, the design, the materials. There are other times that I purchase work because I really value

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03, 04, 05, 06 Artworks and architecture on display at RAK Art Foundation

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and empathize with that artist, their history, their life, their achievements, and their struggles. You will notice that my collection varies from well-known, established artists to lesser- known emerging artists. I have works by artists from all over the world, and many, many pieces by Middle Eastern artists. I have works by a number of artists from Iraq, many who inspired and lead pivotal art movements throughout the Arab world. It is important that we support one another and build collections that tell stories about our shared histories. We need to preserve and protect our culture and to show that we value the messages and stories that are presented through the artwork of our neighbors. When we start to do this, this encourages others to collect Middle Eastern art, increases demand for work and helps grow and sustain an art market.

THE FOUNDATION’S LOCATION IS HISTORIC AND SO IS THE BUILDING ITSELF. WHAT INFLUENCE DID BAHRAIN HAVE ON YOU AS AN ARTIST? Traditional Bahraini architecture, as it is something that I am quite acquainted with, I suppose you could say that it is etched into my

visual memory. The building that currently houses the RAK Art Foundation was originally built in the 1920s and later restored during different periods. It is constructed on the foundation of my childhood home, which was a traditional Bahraini house. Whilst renovating, I ensured that aspects of the original features were rightfully preserved, and the architecture provides me with daily inspiration. Outside, nearby the entrance to my childhood bedroom, you can see one of my first artworks that I painted directly onto the wall when I was 14. In this work alone, one can gain an understanding of how Bahrain influenced my work in those early days. The color palette that I used is reminiscent of the colors in the landscape, the shapes, and forms, nautical. Despite the drastic changes in the style of my work since I first painted that mural on the wall, there is a common denominator that flows through decades of work; an underlying essence that correlates with my immediate environment. I have long been drawn to the natural landscape of Bahrain, the desert, the wadis, the sunrises, and sunsets that are specific to my country. In the past, customs and traditions worked in unison with the natural environment, there was a sense of synergy between man and nature. I try to capture this sentiment in my earlier and later work, by considering my color palette, the effect of the surrounding environment and the natural light.

AFTER FIVE DECADES AS AN ARTIST, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ART FORM TODAY? HOW HAS IT EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS? I suppose that you could say that my work is by and large defined by progression and evolution, shifting with the times and changing with the landscape of my native country. It is also important to note that the styles that define each period of my work, were essential to my artistic journey. I began as a landscape painter, but in the late ‘80s I started to move away from landscape painting and focused more of my attention on figurative work. In the ‘90s my style of painting changed quite dramatically, becoming more patterned and abstract. In the early 2000s, I shifted my attention again, towards the formation of the convex canvas, further abstracting the forms on its surface. In the late 2000s I began to experiment with totally different materials, frequently dictated by the sculptural form of the convex. This led to a much more minimalistic style, whereby I began to engage the smooth façade that aluminum offered. I see these changes as important turning points that were affected and influenced by currents in my life. I continue to create works of all shapes and sizes, my work is site specific; I am not restricted to a specific

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07, 08 The building was converted from a traditional Bahraini house 07

size or form. However, my choice of medium impacts the scale of my work, and I am aware that the materials that I use play a vital role in determining the final product. My latest works are made of aluminum, a robust and versatile metal, that is also lightweight and corrosion resistant. I believe these larger works are inherent of that dichotomy; they are powerful and dominating, but concurrently effortless, delicate, and meditative.

YOU WERE BAHRAIN ART SOCIETY’S FIRST PRESIDENT. HOW MUCH HAS THE SOCIETY CONTRIBUTED TO THE LOCAL ART SCENE SINCE ITS INCEPTION? DO YOU FEEL IT HAS MET ITS OBJECTIVES? The Bahrain Arts Society was founded in 1983. We were a community of artists, many of whom were just coming back to Bahrain from our studies with a newfound energy and drive, who aimed to propel the art scene in Bahrain. We had studied abroad and felt a sense of inspiration that we had gained from the respective countries that we had studied in, and we wanted to bring these new ideas home. It was exciting. We were extremely proactive. It really was groundbreaking for the arts in region at the time. I believe that we planted a seed and we started to show the world how much

creativity existed in Bahrain which said a lot about our culture in general. However, when something grows it presents fertile ground which cannot be capitalized on unless it is cared for and cultivated. The Bahrain Arts Society is an important historical movement, but it should inspire other initiatives and we need to stay fresh and innovative as artists and creatives.

HOW DO WE ENCOURAGE BAHRAINI YOUTH TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THE ARTS? DO THEY HAVE ALL OF THE TOOLS AND RESOURCES NEEDED TO SUCCEED? We have a way to go when it comes to providing resources for the Bahraini youth who are interested in pursuing a career in the arts. First and foremost, we need to offer educational opportunities for young Bahrainis to obtain a degree in art or design so that they don’t feel that they need to go abroad to gain inspiration and get a degree. There are so many options abroad to study art including studio art, art history, critical art theory, curatorial studies, and arts education, to name only very few. Once they have graduated, we need to have opportunities available here for them to pursue a career in the arts or to be able to survive as a full- time

artist. In order for this to happen, certain pillars need to be established: educational institutions, galleries, museums. Only then will we be able to develop a fully functioning ecosystem that feeds the market and helps support artists. In turn, this helps develop a culture and appreciation for arts in general. Imagine what this would do for us as a country? To offer young Bahrainis these kinds of opportunities would be enlightening, to say the least.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THE RAK ART FOUNDATION IN THE COMING YEARS? By offering a platform for artists and creatives from the region as well as providing educational opportunities for art enthusiasts, the RAK Art Foundation plans on launching a comprehensive program of activities that will help propel the art scene in the Kingdom and consolidate Bahrain’s position as a hub of creativity and artistic expression. I really hope that establishing the Foundation will inspire others to be proactive when it comes to art, so that we can support one another, truly develop our rich heritage, and share it with the world. rakartfoundation.com

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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A Legacy

of Perfection A. Lange & Söhne CEO, Wilhelm Schmid reveals the unique qualities behind the Richard Lange Minute Repeater and the Odysseus. 01 The titanium Odysseus 02 A. Lange & Söhne CEO, Wilhelm Schmid

YOU WERE PARTICIPATING IN W&W THIS YEAR WITH FOUR NEW WATCHES. WHAT WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THIS YEAR’S EVENT? HOW DID IT GO? After the two-year hiatus caused by the pandemic, it was the moment we have all been waiting for! Despite all the possibilities offered by the digital world, there is nothing like meeting each other in person to present the new watches live within an immersive setting. Our expectations were even exceeded. The connoisseurs were highly enthusiastic about our debuts: the redesigned classic Grand Lange 1, which is available in white or pink gold, the 50-piece limited Richard Lange Minute Repeater, and the 250-piece limited titanium-edition of the sporty-elegant Odysseus. In fact, the Odysseus was the talk of Watches & Wonders, in part because we showcased a giant model of it at our booth.

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE RICHARD LANGE MINUTE REPEATER? The Richard Lange Minute Repeater is an ode to this traditional complication, emphasizing its magnificence in a very classic interpretation and offering exceptional craftsmanship with thoughtthrough design. Striking the hours, quarter hours,

and minutes on two differently tuned gongs in a superb acoustic quality, it can produce 720 different sequences, one for every minute in the twelve-hour cycle. In line with our ambition to perfect mechanisms down to the smallest detail, the goal was to take the precision and reliability of the strike work to the next level. For example, the chiming mechanism has been equipped with a pause elimination feature. It skips the otherwise common break between the hour and minute strike when no double tone must be struck for the quarter hours in the first 14 minutes after the top of the hour. Furthermore, the patented hammer blocker causes the hammers to dwell in their home position for the fractions of a second after the gongs have been struck. Thus, the re-bounding hammers cannot bounce and strike the gongs again. From a visual perspective, the timepiece wows with its inhouse crafted, notably classic white three-piece enamel dial, which creates a stunning backdrop for the refined blued hands.

HOW DID YOU BUILD ON THE CLASSIC DESIGN OF THE GRAND LANGE 1? WHAT ARE THE MAJOR CHANGES? The Grand Lange 1, which made its first appearance in 2003 and was endowed with its

“In line with our ambition to perfect mechanisms

down to the smallest detail, the goal was to take the precision and reliability of the strike work to the next level.”

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03, 04 he Richard Lange Minute Repeater

05 The Grand Lange 1

own movement in 2012, embodies exquisite design. Our goal was to elevate its refinement to an even higher level. While retaining the diameter of the 18-carat red and white gold cases at 41 mm, we reduced their height to a mere 8.2 mm. This reduction highlights its superior elegance and makes it a picture-perfect dress watch. In addition, it increases the wearing comfort considerably by fitting easily under any cuff. The legendary design of the displays with off-centered time indication, Lange outsize date, power reserve display à la “AUF/AB”, recessed azurage subdials and flat appliqués has also been subtly adjusted.

WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THAT MAKE THE ODYSSEUS WATCH UNIQUE? The Odysseus is our vision of a contemporary luxury everyday watch that perfectly balances casual elegance with convincing technical features and an unmistakable look and feel. The case, available in stainless steel, white gold, and now also titanium, is resilient and water-resistant so that the watch can be worn in leisure and sports settings without worries. As a true Lange timepiece, it also pairs well with a business suit for official occasions. From a technical perspective, the Odysseus is distinguished by the outsize date and the large day-of-week display, which can be conveniently adjusted by the prominent tapered buttons positioned on the case flanks. With a diameter of 40.5 mm and a height of 11.1 mm, it offers an incredible wearing comfort on the wrist.

WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING A. LANGE & SÖHNE AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM? When I started my position as CEO of A. Lange & Söhne in 2011, the brand had long established itself again at the top of the watchmaking pyramid, and it was obvious that we needed to expand. Not necessarily to increase the production, which is currently around 5,500 pieces annually, but to transfer it into modern times by providing improved conditions for our employees within a sustainable working environment. And it was worth the efforts. The inauguration of the new manufacturing building in 2015, together with our company’s

June 2022

ounder Walter Lange, Johann Rupert, Chairman of Richemont, and former Chancellor Angela Merkel, is one of my dearest memories. Productwise, both the launch of the Grand Complication in 2013 and the Odysseus in 2019 have been challenging. While The Grand Complication was one of the most complicated wristwatches ever built in Germany, the Odysseus, as our first sportyelegant stainless-steel watch, opened a new chapter in our history and we therefore wanted to make it very special. More recently, the pandemic exposed us to unprecedented difficulties. It was crucial to protect our watchmakers and staff in the workshops so that the production would not be interrupted. However, we went strong into this situation and came out even stronger. This is also due to an amazing team working together just like a mechanical movement.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE PROFILE OF AN A. LANGE & SÖHNE CLIENT? I wouldn’t say that there is a one-size-fitsall client profile. We don´t mind that because we strongly believe in diversity, individuality, and different perspectives. However, from what our clients tell us, they appreciate our passion for the detail which refers to all aspects of the watch. Lange connoisseurs also value our heritage and legacy which is a story of passion and progressive mindset. Walter Lange once said that “one should never stand still”. To this day, this philosophy is fundamental for our company and determines every step we take. I am also excited that a growing number of young watch enthusiasts already understand fine watchmaking on a deep level and are aware of the subtle differences that distinguish our timepieces in terms of aesthetics, design, and technical details.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS? We are very pleased that A. Lange & Söhne has so many friends in the Gulf region who identify with our vision of haute horlogerie. The number of enthusiasts and connoisseurs who are impressed by our legacy, technical achievements, and artisanal craftsmanship is continuously growing. We look forward to sharing our passion through many fascinating timepieces in the future with them! 05

alange-soehne.com

D-EXPERIENCE

World’s Newest Wonder

The biggest cruise ship in the world, Wonder of the Seas, impresses in both size and attractions. It has all the capabilities aboard to deliver the perfect summer experience in two continents. 01

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01 Wonder of the Seas, the world’s biggest cruise ship

Royal Caribbean announced Wonder of the Seas, the fifth of the Ultra Oasis Class ships, in September 2021. It debuted in March 2022, sailing to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In May, it started its Mediterranean vacations from Barcelona and Rome. At 362 meters, Wonder of the Seas presents an exciting lineup of activities, shows and luxurious facilities for almost 7,000 guests. It boasts a total of 18 decks, two of which are service and crew, and eight unique neighborhoods, with a well curated menu of entertainment, dining, and lounging. This accommodates leisure requirements for families, couples, and groups. Travelers can enjoy mesmerizing views of azure beaches as a backdrop for the vibrant colors on the luxurious board. There are 21 activities and shows for all ages, that include the tallest slide at sea in the Ultimate Abyss. Children can spend hours of play at the Adventure Ocean or the underwater-themed Wonder Playscape, where even adults can share the fun. Families and adults both can also enjoy other

attractions such as the Aquatheater, ice skating shows, a display of planetary phenomena in the 365: The Seasons on Ice, Ice Skating shows, Carousel, and an Arcade with a taste of nostalgia from the eighties and nineties. The Teen Spaces also cater to teenagers between the ages of 13 to 17, with a selection of music, movies, and lounging areas. For music fans, choices include Karaoke, Voices, and Music Hall, where live music is performed. For adults who feel adventurous they can get a feel of Vegas at the Players love Casino Royale, which is onboard every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Guests can explore thousands of square feet of games, from penny slots to poker tables to roulette. Those who feel energized by the sea view can join fitness classes or head to sports court or mini gold course. For a rush of adrenaline there is the zipline, rock climbing wall and the Flowrider, a surf simulator pumping 30,000 gallons. The high energy show, Intense, is an exclusive Aquatheatre production showcases athleticism and high-end technology for sports fans interested in watching exhilarating performances.

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02, 03, 04, 05 Some of the amazing attractions onboard

Guests can relax an unwind at the spa or the solarium or enjoy art at the Park West Gallery collection of contemporary and classic artwork on display at Wonder of the Sea or their e-gallery that featuring 10,000 works from their archives. Shopping is also available whether it’s a retail rush exercise or to pick up an essential at duty free prices. There is also a choice of 19 swimming pools where they can swim or sunbathe. Also, they can have a good laugh at the adults-only Comedy Club featuring guest comedians who take their jokes seriously. The dining options are almost endless with 21 restaurants appealing to different palates with diverse, tantalizing cuisine options. Alternatively, there are 15 bars and lounges with different vibes spread across different locations on Wonders of the Sea. The Mediterranean journey packages, which sails from either Rome or Barcelona, includes breathtaking stops at Malaga, Palma de Mallorca in Spain, Provence (Marseilles), France and Florence/ Pisa (La Spezia), Rome (Civitavecchia), Napli and Capri in Italy. The Mediterranean cruise packages that sail from Florida covers exotic stops at beaches in Nassau and CocoCay at the Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico, Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Labadee in Haiti, Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, Cozumel and Puerto Costa Maya in Mexico and Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis. A transatlantic cruise is also available. It sails from Barcelona, Spain and stops at Palma De Mallorca, Cartagena, Malaga, and Valencia in Spain at then heads to Nassau, Bahamas.

June 2022

After a long activity-packed day, guests can recharge at the award-winning accommodation on board with 2874 rooms and suites. Those include interior, ocean, balcony, and virtual balcony views. Ten suite options are available, including the indulgent first ever Suite Sun Deck in the Royal Caribbean and the ultimate family suite. Amenities and room requirements cover all needs, including babies on board, couples, and special needs. This exceptional experience is brought by Wonders of the Sea with mammoth dimensions at 362 meters length, 64m width and it weighs 236,857 Gross Ton. It travels at a speed of 22 knots which is equivalent to 22 nautical miles per hour or 40 kilometers per hour in an average car speed. In addition to having a capacity of 6988 passengers, it has 2300 crew on board. It has 24 guest elevators and 30 continuous staircases. It took over three years to build at a cost of $1.35 billion. Wonder of the Seas is owned and managed by Royal Caribbean International, a leading cruise line brand founded in Norway in 1968 currently based in Miami, Florida, United States. It operates the five largest cruise ships in the world. royalcaribbean.com 04

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June 2022

Soaring HIGH Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, is further expanding its ultramodern, high-technology family of aircrafts with the introduction of two all-new aircrafts: the Gulfstream G800, the longest-range aircraft in Gulfstream history, and the Gulfstream G400, the first new entrant to the large-cabin class in more than a decade. Gulfstream announced the new aircraft before a live audience at its Savannah headquarters along with a global virtual broadcast via its website, Facebook, and YouTube. The exclusive event featured a virtual tour of the new G400 and a live reveal of the first G800, stunning attendees and viewers as it made its debut. The G800 offers customers the longest range in the Gulfstream fleet with its 8,000-nauticalmile/14,816-kilometer range at Mach 0.85 and 7,000-nm/12,964-km range at Mach 0.90. Powered by high-thrust Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and the Gulfstream-designed wing and winglet introduced on the Gulfstream G700, the G800 also features enhanced fuel-efficiency and more city-pair capabilities. The G800 is designed to seat up to 19 passengers and offers up to four living areas or three living areas with crew compartment. It also features the signature Gulfstream Cabin Experience with 100% fresh, never recirculated air, whisper-

quiet noise levels, industry-leading low cabin altitude and 16 Gulfstream panoramic oval windows. The all-new G400 offers a combination of longrange, high-speed performance; cabin comfort; and environmental efficiency unrivaled in its class. The G400 ramps up environmental performance by reducing fuel consumption, emissions and noise through its use of Gulfstream’s aerodynamic cleanwing design and advanced Pratt & Whitney PW812GA engines. The aircraft will fly 4,200 nm/7,778 km at its long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.85. Three floorplans are offered, with options for seating up to nine, 11 or 12 passengers, and the G400 provides the signature Gulfstream Cabin Experience and 10 Gulfstream panoramic oval windows. Both the G800 and G400 are equipped with the Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck featuring electronically linked active control sidesticks - an industry first - and the industry’s most extensive use of touch-screen technology with 10 touchscreen displays.

Additional health and safety enhancements include 100% fresh, never recirculated and never refiltered air; the lowest cabin altitude in their respective classes; a plasma-ionizing clean air system neutralizing 99.9% of airborne bacteria, spores and odors; and the company’s award-winning Predictive Landing Performance System (PLPS), providing pilots advanced warning of potential runway excursions so they can adjust approaches or go around. Dual head-up displays in the G800 feature Gulfstream’s new Combined Vision System (CVS) that unites the Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) and Synthetic Vision System (SVS) into a single image, increasing pilot situational awareness and access to more airports worldwide. G800 customer deliveries are anticipated to begin in 2023 and G400 deliveries are anticipated to begin in 2025. gulfstream.com

“The G800 is designed to seat up to 19 passengers

and offers up to four living areas or three living areas with crew compartment.”

01 The Gulfstream G800

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02, 03, 04 ,05 The all-new G400 offers a combination of long range, high-speed performance; cabin comfort; and environmental efficiency

June 2022

06, 07 The longest-range aircraft in Gulfstream history

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01, 02 Clash de Cartier collection

June 2022

A FEAT OF SAVOIR-FAIRE Clash de Cartier doubles down on its own philosophy. The latest creations amplify the dualities within the Maison’s codes, playing with duplication and textural counterparts to create a visual language of rhythm and intensity. They project the uncompromising aesthetic of punk, while their tactility invites a playful interaction from the wearer. The signature row of the clou carré studs – the striking backbone of the collection – is doubled up in a new ring and pair of earrings as well as a flexible bracelet and necklace of elegant articulation, available in rose gold or rose gold set with diamonds. With fully integrated clasps on the bracelets and necklaces, the pieces are strikingly sculptural – the twin rows of central studs adding volume and captivating the eye. Cultivating further contrasts with volume, the new XL ring, bracelet, necklace, and earrings see the collection’s signature picot stud find its mirror image across a dividing line of diamond paving. Round onyx beads add depth and a soft, seamless volume that contrasts with the assertive rhythm and shining rose gold of the pointed stud. The simple, elegant composition of the new Clash de Cartier creations hides a complexity of

design that draws on generations of savoir-faire. The flexible pieces must be carefully constructed - ensuring the mobility of the double rows feels fluid for the wearer, with up to 600 different components to assemble. The setting of diamonds into these shapes requires careful attention to maximize sparkle while keeping the instantly recognizable lines of the Clash de Cartier collection. The XL pieces present a technical and aesthetic challenge for the lapidarist: creating perfectly geometric beads of onyx that share a soft volume. Subtle, versatile - instantly, iconically recognizable. The British-American actress Lily Collins embodies the signature of the Clash de Cartier as she becomes the face of the collection. She masters the art of duality, encapsulating the complexity of modern women on and off the silver screen.

The Maison’s repertoire of forms finds beauty in everyday objects. In the proportions and relief of the picot stud, the jeweler’s eye reveals timeless elegance with a rebellious spirit. The conical shape was introduced to the Maison’s creations in the early 20th century, and a picotstudded headpiece made a strong impression on the general public at the 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts, where Cartier enthralled visitors with the Maison’s creations. Under the creative directorship of the legendary Jeanne Toussaint, from 1933 to the 1970s, the picot continued as a signature of the Maison: repeated in lines, articulated in links, or adding a profusion of texture and visual extravagance. cartier.com

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03, 04, 06, 07 Bracelets and rings from the collection

June 2022

“The simple, elegant composition of the new Clash

de Cartier creations hides a complexity of design that draws on generations of savoir-faire.” 05

05 Actress Lily Collin

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‘CHOPARD Loves Cinema’ The first creations in an Haute Joaillerie collection freely inspired by movie masterpieces.

June 2022

01 Choker in Fairmined-certified ethical 18-carat white gold set with diamonds (204.35 cts) 02 Jewellery watch in Fairminedcertified ethical 18-carat white gold, entirely set with diamonds (32.82 cts) and multicoloured sapphires (17.48 cts) 03 Ring in Fairmined-certified ethical 18-carat white and rose gold, aluminium and titanium, set with spessartites (13.64 cts), tsavorites (3.23 cts) and diamonds (0.49 ct)

Representing so much more than an oft-repeated refrain, ‘Chopard Loves Cinema’ is the theme chosen by Chopard to mark its activities at the 75th Cannes Film Festival, which corresponds to the jeweler’s 25th participation as an official partner. On this occasion, Caroline Scheufele has designed a masterful Red Carpet Collection of 75 Haute Joaillerie creations: an epic saga inspired by the grand adventure of cinema from its early black and white charms to its dizzying colors. This creative abundance draws on her own repertoire and the first models previewed capture the watershed moment when contemporary cinema was born and began to blossom. Ahead of the full Red Carpet Collection at Cannes Film Festival, Caroline Scheufele unveils the first creations. Chopard’s tireless Co-President and Artistic Director’s appetite for life and eclectic tastes drive her prolific inventiveness and a dazzling capacity to arouse jewellery emotions. Much like a film director, this keen lover of the seventh art has dreamed up a jewellery collection freely inspired by her favorite movies that have had a lasting impact on her, whether by the worlds they portray or certain legendary scenes that have inducted these masterpieces into cinema’s hall of fame. In tribute to the 75th Cannes Film Festival, no less than 75 Haute Joaillerie creations will compose the collection, whose wonders can be admired on the famous red carpet of the festival’s preview screenings. A technical feat, brought to life through the combined talents and expertise of a team of jewelers such as only Chopard is capable of assembling. The first jewel in this Haute Joaillerie collection freely inspired by movie masterpieces is a rose embellishing a luminous costume. This fragile, sensual, dreamlike rose evokes the one Charlie Chaplin wore on his lapel in City Lights, one of his greatest masterpieces. It is also the black and white diamondstudded bloom chosen by Caroline Scheufele to open the ball of the 2022 Red Carpet Collection. A brooch

graced with mobile petals as a tribute to a filmmaking ‘monument’. Two roses united by the same spirit of emotion and eternal beauty celebrated by the enduring love story between Chopard and cinema. A stunning “Pumpkin” ring opens a wondrous ball inspired by the Cinderella fairy tale, which has been retold many times on the silver screen. Composed of spessartite garnets and tsavorites, this pumpkin secretly opens to reveal a legendary diamond slipper enabling the beauty to be reunited with her Prince Charming. A jewel designed like a throwback to childhood and which required nearly 100 hours of expertise, as well as an appeal to the imagination such as only Caroline Scheufele is uniquely able to orchestrate. Another enchanting vision likewise intended to grace a dainty hand takes the form of a rose-shaped ring with petals exquisitely sculpted from titanium and aluminum covered with pink sapphires. They protect a precious two-carat diamond nestling at the heart of the flower, which, while its exhales no perceptible fragrance, will delight the gaze of those who enjoy the privilege of admiring a jewel worthy of the most romantic stage designs. ‘Chopard Loves Cinema’ also features a series of creations whose classicism evokes timeless stories, including a stunning choker entirely crafted from diamonds totaling 204.35 carats, and a ring whose central 4.40 ct emerald is adorned with delicate lacework sparkling with diamonds mingling pear, heart and round cuts. Finally, a Chopard Haute Joaillerie collection would doubtless not be complete without jewellery watches – one of the Scheufele family’s historic talents. Two timepieces are enjoying a preview presentation in the Red Carpet Collection: one entirely set with rosettes of diamonds and pink, yellow and orange sapphires, and the other combining diamonds with exquisite heart-shaped rubies. chopard.com

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“ A technical feat, brought to life through

the combined talents and expertise of a team of jewelers such as only Chopard is capable of assembling.”

04 Ring in Fairmined-certified ethical 18-carat white gold, titanium and aluminium set with a 2 ct round-cut diamond, rubies (4.70 cts), pink sapphires (3.13 cts) and diamonds (0.56 ct) 05 Ring in Fairmined-certified ethical 18-carat white gold set with a 4.40 ct round-cut emerald and diamonds (4.04 cts)

06 Jewellery watch in Fairminedcertified ethical 18-carat white ethical gold, entirely set with diamonds (27.21 cts) and rubies (8.40 cts)

June 2022

WATCHES

01 Vacheron Constantin’s new Métiers d’Art watch series

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June 2022

A Tribue to Civilizations The Persian Empire of Darius the Great, the golden age of Ancient Egypt, the Hellenistic period of Ancient Greece and the rise to power of Augustus, the first Roman emperor, are the historical anchor points of Vacheron Constantin’s new Métiers d’Art watch series. As part of the partnership with the Louvre initiated in 2019 and following intense collaboration with its curators and historians, the Maison has developed a series of four timepieces based on the museum’s ancient collections. True symbols of each era, these artistic masterpieces are at the center of an exceptional watchmaking show staged by skilled craft makers. Vacheron Constantin’s Métiers d’Art collection is a unique opportunity to travel through time and space thanks to the talents of its master artisans. It is an opportunity to discover – or revisit – certain historical chapters or artistic and cultural symbols of our civilizations. From this perspective, the partnership initiated with the Louvre in 2019 offers an exceptional field of inspiration. In close collaboration with the museum’s teams, Vacheron Constantin’s designers and developers therefore undertook to create a new series of Métiers d’Art watches directly inspired by emblematic masterpieces of the Louvre. Expressed across four eras, the main theme originated in the museum’s incredible collection of antiquities: the Persian Empire under Darius the Great; the Egypt of the pharaohs from the time of the Middle Kingdom; the Hellenistic period in Greece; and the birth of the Roman Empire with the advent of Augustus. Each of these great civilizations is thus represented by a major artistic work drawn from some of the Louvre’s masterpieces. The craft project involved a real challenge for craft makers

that required reproducing their expressive strength on a less than 40 mm-diameter dial featuring ornamentation inspired by the decorative arts of the corresponding period, embellished with written elements. The choice of techniques, the rare talents required to implement them, as well as the original composition of these timepieces converge to offer a fascinating watchmaking spectacle, commensurate with these great moments in history. To power these Métiers d’Art Tribute to great civilisations watches, Vacheron Constantin has chosen its self-winding Manufacture Calibre 2460 G4/2, which features four discs indicating the hours, minutes, days and dates. The apertures for reading the time and calendar indications, symmetrically positioned around the dial periphery, thus leave a vast field of expression for the artisans. No hands disturb the view of these miniature masterpieces. On the back of the movement, beating at a rate of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and comprising 237 components, the oscillating weight has also received special attention. It features a depiction – based on an 18th century lithograph – of the east facade of the Louvre and its magnificent colonnade inspired by the work of Louis Le Vau and Claude Perrault, based on an 18th century etching. The matrix of the design was hand-sculpted and then used to stamp the twenty oscillating weights composing the series. vacheronconstantin.com

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June 2022

02 Métiers d’Art Tribute to great civilisations, Victoire de Samothrace 03 Métiers d’Art Tribute to great civilisations, Grand sphinx de Tanis

04 02 03

“Each of these great civilizations is thus represented by a major artistic work drawn from some of the Louvre’s masterpieces.”

04 Métiers d’Art Tribute to great civilisations, Lion de Darius 05 Métiers d’Art Tribute to great civilisations, Buste d’Auguste

04 05

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DYNAMIC Partnership

June 2022

A Hublot ambassador since 2020, creative director Samuel Ross brings his unique graphic language to watchmaking for the first time with the limitededition Big Bang Tourbillon Samuel Ross. A 40-year focus on the “Art of Fusion” has resulted in a meteoric rise for Hublot, seeing it catapulted to the pinnacle of innovative watchmaking. With the brand’s ability to combine seemingly diametrically opposed materials, plus an enduring drive to push the boundaries of what is technically and aesthetically possible, it has rewritten the rules of horology, leaving a new design language in its wake. Fostering a desire to work with the most talented practitioners in alternate fields, the brand introduced its “Hublot Loves Art” initiative more than a decade ago. Hublot has since collaborated with some of the most talented artists and designers of a generation. Ground-breaking in outlook and highly collectable, the resulting watches offer new interpretations of time and timekeeping. The most recent creator to take up the mantle is Samuel Ross. Mirroring Hublot’s trajectory, renaissance man Ross has experienced an equally breakneck rise to prominence. Describing himself as a creative director, the 30-year-old multi-disciplinary artist, filmmaker, and fashion designer graduated from Leicester De Montfort University in 2012 with a first-class honors’ degree in graphic design and illustration. Since then, he has collaborated with many brands and creative outlets – from Oakley and Nike to Dr. Martens and

Mackintosh – launching his men’s Luxury Sportswear label A-Cold-Wall* in late 2015, and his design studio SR_A in 2019. In 2019, Ross was awarded the prestigious Hublot Design Prize, and a year later he was announced as an official brand ambassador, an occasion marked by the unveiling of REFORM, a sculpture designed to encapsulate 40 years of Hublot. Combining an ancient, organic material (granite) with a modern, manmade one (steel), Ross created his own ‘Fusion’, uniting past and present in a production process that involved both traditional hand-finishing and cuttingedge machining. The deceptively simple, industrial form of the 40cm high artwork has now been reinterpreted in the 45mm Big Bang Tourbillon Samuel Ross – Ross’s first wristwatch collaboration with Hublot. Ross’s signature use of color and love of stark geometry and urban design, come together with the innovation and precision that prevail in the work of both Ross and Hublot. The distinctive, stylized hexagon of the Big Bang case is reflected in the titanium honeycomb mesh used on the sapphire dial, case, case back and strap. A basic building block of nature (seen in environments from beehives and snake’s scales to pineapple skin and snowflakes) the robust and efficient shape, that can be repeated without gaps or

overlapping, has been appropriated as a standard for modern-day construction and design thanks to the 01 seamless fit of each unit. Here the hexagon is a visual symbol of the functionality of the watch – a key strand running through all of Ross’s design. Although it may be a wearable sculpture, Ross never loses sight of the need for it to be durable and ergonomic, the lightweight, openworked titanium structure and malleable rubber strap ensuring its comfort on the wrist. A proponent of color theory, Ross has chosen orange – representing energy and optimism – for the strap and accents on the crown and tourbillon bridge and lateral bumpers that protect the case, a glowing contrast to the sober grey of the satin-finished case and bezel. The 282-component, manufacture HUB6035 caliber within beats at 3 Hz and gives 72 hours of power reserve. Just 50 pieces will be produced, each one a piece of art that brings a new perspective and a new visual language to watchmaking. To celebrate the launch, Ross’s signature colors will envelop Hublot’s 5th Ave boutique in New York City. The takeover will be repeated in Hublot stores across the globe, bringing the Samuel Ross universe to the world of horology. hublot.com

“Ground-breaking in outlook

and highly collectable, the resulting watches offer new interpretations of time and timekeeping.”

01, 02, 03 The limited-edition Big Bang Tourbillon Samuel Ross

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June 2022

01 Astronaut James A. Lovell Jr., Commander for NASA’s Apollo 13 mission 02 OMEGA Speedmaster

A Timeless Bond

On April 17th this year, OMEGA marked more than 50 years since Apollo 13. When that famous mission lifted off in 1970, nobody on board, nor on the ground, could ever have anticipated the drama and near disaster that lay ahead. For OMEGA, it a was moment that has lived long in the memory, especially thanks to the Speedmaster Professional chronographs that played a vital role in the crew’s safe return home. Since 1965, those timepieces had been issued by NASA as a “critical backup” in case the astronauts ever lost the capability of their digital timers. Indeed, when a major problem did occur for Apollo 13 on their expected journey to the moon, the Speedmaster’s “backup” duties were put into action. Just two days after launch, an oxygen tank exploded on board Apollo 13, crippling the Service Module and plunging the astronauts into a truly perilous situation. The mission to the moon was abandoned. Now, it was simply about getting the crew home safely. Part of the innovative rescue strategy, directed from Houston, was to move the astronauts into the Lunar Module. This craft, however, was not built to support so many people for such a long time. Therefore, to conserve energy, the crew shut down nearly all power - rendering their digital timers obsolete and leaving the astronauts at the mercy of dark and freezing conditions.

Apollo 13 faced many serious challenges over the next several days, but it was at the final hurdle, when OMEGA’s essential precision was called for. Because the mission had drifted off course by roughly 60 to 80 nautical miles, it meant that the module would re-enter Earth’s atmosphere at the wrong angle and bounce back into space with no chance of recovery. Therefore, to manually readjust the course of the craft, an exact 14-second burn of fuel was required. There was simply no room for error. Without their digital timers, Module Pilot Jack Swigert instead used his OMEGA Speedmaster Professional chronograph to time the burn, while Commander James Lovell guided the craft using the Earth’s horizon as his guide. To huge relief, the unique maneuver worked perfectly, and finally, on April 17th, 142 hours and 54 minutes after launch, Apollo 13 splashed down safely in the South Pacific Ocean. Later that year, on October 5th 1970, OMEGA was

presented with NASA’s “Silver Snoopy Award” – as a mark of gratitude for its contributions to the success of human space flight missions. When this prestigious award was first created, Snoopy was chosen as NASA’s unofficial mascot because of his ability to keep things light in serious situations. He also emphasized mission success and acted as a safety “watchdog.” OMEGA has kept Snoopy and Apollo 13 close to its heart ever since and several “Snoopy” watches have been created to commemorate the mission’s milestone anniversaries. Most recently, this has included the Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 50th Anniversary timepiece released in 2020. Capturing the light-hearted spirit of the famous beagle, the watch includes a Snoopy medallion on the dial, as well as an exclusive and dynamic caseback that features Snoopy flying in orbit around the moon. omega-watches.com

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June 2022

01 Tassin experts at work

Passionate Refinement Founded in 1905 in Paris, Tassin masters with excellence the ancestral know-how of upholstery, an old technique from the 14th century. The craftsmen create and refurbish traditional items or furniture items such as desk accessorizes false library, old screens, or contemporary items such as bedhead, floor and wall coatings, and chairs. Cordoba leather is a living material more sumptuous than silk. It alone creates a home décor. Thanks to its durability, it will last forever. Its colors adapt to all home interiors. Its pliability enables every kind of use. Tassin is a 100-year-old company which holds the prestigious ‘Living Heritage’ label. It still masters the technique that was elaborated long before the Umayyads, brought to Cordoba by the Arab conquerors and then renewed during the Golden Century of the Spanish Hapsburg. Every single leather panel is entirely made in Tassin’s workshops. The hides are carefully chosen by experts to be able to hold their

embossed design forever. The designs are extremely varied. Tassin has at its disposal a unique collection of bronze plates with traditional designs. It is enriched by the creation of contemporary decoration by Tassin’s graphists, enabling them to cater to specific requests. Tassin’s Cordoba leather is hand-painted. After laying on a first coat of color, which may be either golden, silver, or translucent like stained glass, the colorists then highlight all the details of the repousse leather. Every piece that is colored on request is unique. Tassin installs the Cordoba panels by themselves everywhere in the world.

Tassin leather is one of the main European distributors in the Decoration & furniture area as well as marine, automobile, and aeronautic area, in France and worldwide. Hides are treated in European well-known tanneries and respect the environmental and safety standards. The collections of Tassin leather are available in stock, in more than 250 colors, and offer a variety of 11 different textures, decoration hides (natural cow, goat, springbok, zebra) exceptional leathers (shagreen, ostrich, parchemin) as well as Cordoba leather. tassin-cuir.com

02, 03 Exquisite upholstery 04 Tassin machinery

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June 2022

Painting Outside THE LINES

Bahrain-based painter Hisham Sharif discusses the inspiration behind his work, the importance of exploring new ideas, and his father’s impact on his art.

HOW DID GROWING UP IN AN ARTISTIC FAMILY INFLUENCE YOU? My dad, AbdulRahim Sharif, is a widely celebrated artist both regionally and internationally. Unsurprisingly, he has been a huge influence in my life, both personally and professionally. All kids look up to their dad as an inspiration to a certain degree. I remember watching him paint while I was growing up and was always interested in what he was doing. I once got into an argument with a primary school teacher because she asked the class what their dads did for a living. The other kids said things like doctor, policeman, chef, etc. I told her my dad was a painter and she did not believe me. The mindset at the time was that art cannot be a career. My dad always told me that you just need the right audience to take off. He has always encouraged me. He is my biggest fan and toughest critic.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A PAINTER? When I was four years old, I had an accident while I was on vacation with my family. I fell three stories and landed on my right side, which is why I’m now 70 percent deaf in that ear. My parents found me unconscious and put me in the car to try and find a hospital. As my dad tells the story, I was lying in his arms and he asked God to help me, saying “give him a part of my life”. He then blew on my face, and I woke up. After I got treated at the hospital and recovered, we came back to Bahrain, and I suddenly started painting. I’d never really tried to before the accident. I

believe everything happens for a reason, and that is when my life as a painter started.

WHAT WAS THE FIRST THING YOU TRIED TO PAINT? When I was six, I used to copy works from Picasso’s Blue Period and I still have these artworks. Picasso has always been a big influence and remains an important figure in my artistic life. What he did through his work laid the foundation for many artists. The best thing about painting at a young age is that you’re completely free to experiment. I remember being so happy when I was painting and couldn’t wait to show my dad what I’d worked on when he got home from work.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE SHARIF AND SHARIF EXHIBITION YOU DID WITH YOUR DAD? It was a great experience and I’m proud of it. During an interview, someone suggested doing a show with my dad, and I was reluctant initially. I wanted to stand on my own, but the more I thought about it, I realized it would be a good opportunity and we may not have the chance to do something like this together again. It was like two artists having two shows at the same time. My dad’s work was displayed in one hall and mine was in the other. Although our work is visually different, a lot of our ideas overlap because we spend so much time together. We share a common concern for humanity, especially in the face of corruption, war, and violence. I didn’t want to do a show around one idea, I wanted to

showcase the progression of my work over the past four years. The show included seascapes, landscapes, and everyday life, all of which are open to interpretation. I want people to relate to my work in their own way.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ARTISTIC STYLE? Every great artist must experiment to find what they are best at. I have been doing monochrome black and white paintings for the past five years. When I came back to Bahrain, I was disheartened by not being able to find a job, and I think that came across with the style I chose. It’s easy to find something you’re good at and stick with it, but it’s important to keep trying new things. For example, certain themes and subject matter work better in one style than another. So, sticking to one style limits your creative potential. My residency in New York opened my mind to new ideas and ways of working. Now, I’ve started using color in my work, which is something I want to explore in more detail. I’m in a much happier place now, and I think this will be evident in my future paintings.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE AS AN ARTIST? Being stuck alone in a studio all day is challenging. There are no shortcuts, you need to stick with a piece for as long as it takes, which is sometimes frustrating. The satisfaction only comes at the end when you see the vision in your head there on the canvas. The sustainability of being an artist is another challenge, especially in this part of

“It’s easy to find something you’re good at

and stick with it, but it’s important to keep trying new things.”

01 Reception, Acrylic on Paper, 30x42cm, 2020

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02 Last Dance, Acrylic on Paper, 30x42cm, 2020

04 Awaiting the Prince, Acrylic on Paper, 30x42cm, 2020

03 Downtown Beirut, Acrylic on Paper, 30x42cm, 2020

05 Women in Private, Acrylic on Paper, 30x42cm, 2017

June 2022

07 the world where some people still don’t view being an artist as a real job. Very few people can say they are an artist full-time and need to have day jobs to cover the bills.

YOUR ARTISTIC INFLUENCES APPEAR MORE WESTERN THAN EASTERN, WHY IS THIS? Culture is for everyone and although many artists focus on their own heritage as a source of inspiration, it’s not the only way to go. There is so much to learn from different cultures. If you look at contemporary art, the sense of identity and individualism play such a big role. I focus on the quality of work more than anything else. Great works of art have a sense of ambiguity and every time you come back to them, you see something new. I love the idea of taking something from my Persian roots and making it contemporary. 06 Arrival of the Princess, Acrylic & Charcoal on Paper, 30x42cm, 2018 07 Bahrain-based painter Hisham Sharif

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE BAHRAIN ART SCENE? There are some really talented local artists and a few places where they can showcase their work. I’d like to see more art galleries opening in Bahrain so aspiring artists can get their work noticed by more people. I think schools also have an important role to play by encouraging young people to take up art as a means of selfexpression. I believe art, literature, and music, should be a main part of the curriculum because they expose people to different ideas and cultures. Instagram.com/hishamsharif_

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June 2022

NFT Pioneers

As one of the foremost authorities on NFTs in the Kingdom, dynamic duo Leena Al Ayoobi and Abdulrahman Almokla are taking the art world by storm and forging a new path for the region’s crypto and NFT enthusiasts. 01 NFT Mena Exhibit 2022

YOU HAVE JUST WRAPPED UP A VERY SUCCESSFUL EVENT, NFT MENA EXHIBIT 2022. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT? Leena Al Ayoobi: NFT MENA Exhibit was a three-day event held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman of the National Counsel of Arts. It aimed to provide introductorylevel information to people who have no idea about crypto or NFTs and want to learn, and also to provide enthusiasts a space to connect with other likeminded individuals from across the world. It was a privilege for us to organise such an event which brought people together through a common interest and which put Bahrain on the regional map as a pioneer in the NFT space. Abdulrahman Almokla: The event comprised two parts: an NFT exhibition featuring over 130 artists from all over the world; and a series of educational workshops on topics such as how to create your own NFT, the future of commercial NFTs, and smart contracts. The event’s official partners were Binance, which is the largest crypto exchange in the world, along with the RAK Foundation, MBC Group, NFT BAZL, Tamkeen, the Economic Development Board (EDB), Benefit, Radio Bahrain, and more. We had over 4,700 attendees over the three days, and we are pleased

to announce that the event directly contributed to attracting new NFT and crypto related businesses to Bahrain. We are already gearing up for the 2023 edition of the event, which promises to be bigger and better.

ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING THINGS THAT HAPPENED AT NFT MENA EXHIBIT 2022 WAS THAT BINANCE LAUNCHED ITS OWN NFTS FOR THE FIRST TIME. HOW DID YOU MAKE THAT COME ABOUT? LA: I had the idea of creating NFTs that Binance could give away to visitors at the event, as a collectible item that could grow in value over time. It was a matter of incredible prestige to be the artist who created Binance’s first official NFTs in the world, and a total set of 150 was created. Over Ramadan I worked on another NFT project with Binance’s charity division, which was called “Mayar”. The whole collection of 85 NFTs sold out in 15 minutes and the proceeds went towards feeding children in need in Africa.

YOU MENTIONED THAT THE EVENT PAVED THE WAY FOR NEW NFT AND CRYPTORELATED BUSINESSES TO SET UP IN BAHRAIN. WHAT MAKES BAHRAIN AN IDEAL DESTINATION FOR THIS INDUSTRY?

AM: Since the 1930s, Bahrain has been a pioneer in various industries, and this can be attributed to our culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and the futurelooking vision of our country’s leadership. Bahrain is especially well-suited for the NFT and crypto industry because the regulations are clear and robust, and there is a lot of hand-holding from the regulators which makes it easier for businesses of all sizes to grow. Because of its small size, it is easy to reach the relevant authorities and work closely with them to bring about the changes that may be required to accommodate such a rapidly evolving industry. Finally, the crypto community is very warm and welcoming, so even beginners can feel confident about exploring opportunities here. Bahrain truly has the potential to become a world leader in this space, as a compact, flexible, smart, fast, robust economy like Singapore, for example.

SPEAKING OF OPPORTUNITIES, WHY SHOULD PEOPLE CARE ABOUT NFTS? LA: I will answer this question from an artist’s perspective. For a traditional artist to sell a painting is a very straightforward procedure: you receive the money, and you hand over the artwork. However, digital artists cannot control this transaction because it is so easy for their

“People’s medical or identity records can

be maintained securely and efficiently through NFTs.”

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02 Leena Al Ayoobi 03 Abdulrahman Almokla

artwork to be effectively stolen and proliferated across the internet. For the first time, NFTs give digital artists and creators of digital assets the same control over their product as traditional artists enjoy, and it also allows them to receive royalties every time their piece exchanges hands. AM: NFTs also have so many applications beyond art. Governments are now experimenting with creating property title deeds as NFTs. People’s medical or identity records can be maintained securely and efficiently through NFTs. NFTs can provide security against financial fraud. NTFs can also be used as tickets for exclusive access to certain offers, areas or events. Businesses can really set themselves apart by embracing this technology, and the only limit is your creativity. We act as consultants to help businesses and governmental or semi-governmental entities to create an NFT infrastructure that suits their specific needs.

WHY ARE NFTS OF MONKEYS SELLING FOR MILLIONS OF DOLLARS? AM: These particular NFTs in question offer the owner access to a very exclusive club of highnet-worth individuals, and the price of the NFT is practically the price of admission to this circle. Some people might find that it is worth it, which is why the NTFs sell for millions. Of course, there

are some NFTs that people are just trying to flip quickly for a large profit, which drives the price up, but NFTs should not be viewed as get-rich-quick schemes, because they are not!

HOW CAN SOMEONE GET INTO NFTS? LA: I would advise people not to get too overwhelmed with all the details. As a beginner, you do not need to understand how the entire technology works-you just need to understand how to create a wallet, and buy or create an NFT. You can learn this from any introductory course on Udemy or YouTube, and once you know the basics you can join a community, either online or in person, where you can enhance your knowledge.

WHAT UPCOMING PROJECTS ARE YOU WORKING ON? AM: The biggest project we are currently working on is a creator space and community here in Bahrain where people can come to learn about NFTs, create NFTs, or collaborate on NFT projects. LA: We are very excited to create this local community and contribute to the development of this technology in Bahrain. Instagram.com/almokla Instagram.com/leenz_art

June 2022

NEW NOBILITY, NEW EXQUISITENESS, NEW FEELINGS +973 17 703703

hongqi-bahrain.com *T&C Apply

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June 2022

01, 03 Carna by Dario Cecchini 02 Master butcher Dario Cecchini

Culinary Pleasures With its new timing every day starting from 6pm, Carna by Dario Cecchini welcomes you even earlier for amazing bar bites and beverages in an ambience that will soothe your senses while you dine, relax, and connect with friends and family. Carna was precisely created to provide you with an exceptional experience. Enjoy the stunning view of Dubai’s gorgeous skyline from the perfectly chosen location high up on the 74th floor of the SLS Hotel & Residences complex, where Carna by Dario Cecchini provides an outstanding experience with superb cuisine, excellent drinks, and a lively ambiance that is an event in itself. Expect to be tantalized by its diverse and mouthwatering bites, meticulously designed by the one and only legendary Dario Cecchini, which includes delectable Rondelle di Verdure vegetable chips; scrumptious Charcuterie Board of Wagyu Cured Meats served with Cornichons, Cocktail Onions and Lavash; Dario’s Sliders, tasty Fritto

Misto with Octopus, Shrimp, Zucchini, Artichokes, and Piquillo Pepper Aioli; as well as Chicken Livers Crostini, among many more. In line with the superb experience, the Negroni, St Germain Spritz, and Lago Di Nemi are just a few of the outstanding beverages available at Carna’s Bar. There is no better place to go with friends for a fun and relaxed evening. Long-time guests who have sampled Carna’s great food, various drinks, exemplary service, and very refined and inspiring environment keep coming back for more to savor the unique flavors and textures. sbe.com/restaurants/carna/dubai

“In line with the superb experience, the

Negroni, St Germain Spritz, and Lago Di Nemi are just a few of the outstanding beverages available at Carna’s Bar.”

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04, 05, 06 Amazing bites and beverages

June 2022

HADIQAT AL DIYAR Extending over an area of 32,800 square meters, Hadiqat Al Diyar is located near the main entrance of Diyar Al Muharraq in close proximity to Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa Grand Mosque.

Outdoor Gym for Special Needs

diyar.bh | 8000 8880

FRAGRANCES - MEN

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FRESH and Bold

June 2022

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

Penhaligon’s The World According to Arthur A gentle warrior in a sweet-scented garden of sage wisdom and wit. But do watch out, when incensed, he breathes fire. An enveloping incense with fresh, resinous, and leathery facets awakening the dragon’s fire. Vanilla infusion, ambrette seeds and tonka bean underline the sensuality of the fragrance amplifying its balsamic signature. penhaligons.com

Carolina Herrera Under The Sea CH Under The Sea For Him brings a powerful freshness with its aquatic and sensual personality. The fragrance starts with a woody and oriental base, followed by a resin, green and aromatic heart, and topped by spicy and watery notes, which add an intriguing touch that rounds off this scent perfectly. carolinaherrera.com

Carolina Herrera Bad Boy Cobalt Following the global success of Bad Boy and Bad Boy Le Parfum, Carolina Herrera puts an electrifying twist on the dual nature of the modern man with Bad Boy Cobalt. This new men’s fragrance cracks open convention while exploring the diverse bonds of brotherhood, embodied in nature by the unapologetic strength found in cobalt and its powerfully pigmented blue. carolinaherrera.com

Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Italian Love Pour Homme Light Blue Italian Love Pour Homme reveals a new interpretation of masculine sensuality, crafted by perfumer Shyamala Maisondieu. Top notes of Italian bergamot and juicy frozen grapefruit – cold-pressed from the peel – create a fresh cocktail to open the fragrance, instantly transporting the senses to the iconic citrus groves of Capri. dolcegabbana.com

Liquides Imaginaries Les Eaux des Bermudes Three perfumes that tell the mythical, dangerous sea journey of an imaginary adventurer who escapes his dangers and then recounts them in perfume. Les Eaux des Bermudes are an homage to the legendary tales of adventurers of the seas, from the odyssey of Ulysses to Shakespeare’s Prospero. They evoke all the heroic exploits of the oldest myths, as well as all our fears. liquidesimaginaires.com

Givenchy Gentleman Réserve Privée

Paco Rabanne Invictus Victory Exerting the smell of triumph, Invictus is an extreme Eau De Parfum that celebrates an intense duality between two forces at odds: freshness and intensity. On one side, meet vibrant freshness, embodied by a lively citrus scent wrapped in boosted incent. On the other, find potent intensity: the softness of vanilla backed by the sweetness of tonka bean creating a mysterious, balmy, and captivating effect.

A woody floral ambery fragrance, Givenchy Gentleman Réserve Privée is composed of traceable top-quality ingredients. What makes it captivating is the striking duality between whisky absolute and iris, the emblematic ingredient of Gentleman Givenchy fragrances. The voluptuousness of the former responds to the refined elegance of the latter. givenchy.com

pacorabanne.com

MARQUES Apotheosis of Hercules and Personification of the Moon on her Chariot The European luxury label MARQUES announces its debut in the world of fragrances with two scents: Apotheosis of Hercules and Personification of the Moon on her Chariot. The fragrances share an intense and bold character, with notes such as oud, vanilla, dark chocolate, and exotic woods. Each fragrance borrows from the arts and the label’s origin cities of Dubai and Lisbon. marques.world

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June 2022

Clive Christian Art Deco XXI Blonde Amber and Amberwood Blonde Amber and Amberwood bring to life the energy, grandeur, and artistry of the era through this precious jewel like ingredient. A romantic and dynamic story of the Art Deco period is bought to life in pure perfume pleasure. clivechristian.com

Rasasi Tawleefa Dorar The Tawleefa Dorar opens with a crisp burst of aldehydes encircling a fruity accord of plum, pineapple, and red mandarin from the slopes of the Southern Italian hills, infused with greenstones of galbanum that evoke ancient Persia. rasasi.com

Paco Rabanne Phantom 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. Radically different. Totally disruptive. Intensely covetable. Utterly Paco Rabanne. pacorabanne.com

Parfums de Marly Haltane A bold fragrance for gentlemen of all generations, Haltane enthralls with traditional woody aromatics. Its dazzling freshness and herbal top notes yield a warm and smooth sense of leather with a symphony of precious woods. Haltane pays homage to the masculine elegance of the 18th-century French court. pmarly.com

FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

069

Alluring Fragrances

June 2022

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

Carolina Herrera Under The Sea For Her CH Under The Sea For Her presents a salty and bubbly fragrance, evoking a mermaid spell through the most vibrant ingredients. The base emerges with coconut notes and jungle essence, while the heart is made of red seaweed, and the top features the sensual ylang ylang. carolinaherrera.com

Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Italian Love Pour Femme The fragrance opens with Light Blue’s iconic top notes, an addictive duo of crisp Granny Smith apple and tangy Calabrian lemon, extracted using the traditional “sfumatrice” technique which allows the essence and the juice of the lemon to be recovered in its entirety. dolcegabbana.com

Guerlain Epices Exquises

Liquides Imaginaries Les Eaux des Bermudes

The century-long love story between the iconic French house and the East continues. Guerlain’s Master Perfumer Thierry Wasser takes us on an olfactory journey to Orient through EPICES EXQUISES, an explosion of precious spices at the heart of this “woody, spicy, smoky” scent.

Three perfumes that tell the mythical, dangerous sea journey of an imaginary adventurer who escapes his dangers and then recounts them in perfume. Les Eaux des Bermudes are an homage to the legendary tales of adventurers of the seas, from the odyssey of Ulysses to Shakespeare’s Prospero. They evoke all the heroic exploits of the oldest myths, as well as all our fears.

guerlain.com

liquidesimaginaires.com

FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

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June 2022

Maison Margiela When the Rain Stops A woody aquatic fragrance, ‘When the Rain Stops’ opens with a vibrant pink pepper essence blend with the fresh and luminous Rose petal essence. Together they recreate the joyful feeling of seeing the sun return after the rain, like the promise of a better tomorrow. maisonmargiela.com

Molton Brown Rose Dunes Created by Senior Perfumer Phillip Paparella, Rose Dunes is a sophisticated layering of floral, ambery and woody notes. It’s a scented symbol of the mystic ‘desert rose’ found in the Arabian Desert; this is not a true flower, but a unique rose-like formation of crystallized mineral clusters. moltonbrown.ae

Narciso Rodriguez Narciso Eau de Parfum Cristal The fragrance captures the essence of inner light through its radiant topnotes, pure and delicate heart, and sensual drydown. As the scent awakens, a glowing halo of radiant bergamot illuminates the soft petals of blooming flowers, a lush bouquet of upcycled rose and white floral accords. narcisorodriguez.com

Christian Louboutin Loubimar eau de parfum légère Christian Louboutin picks the Loubimar eau de parfum légère from his Portuguese summer garden. A Floral Citrus bouquet with salty ocean notes. Its splash of white flowers envelops you with a sensual foam of musk and tuberose. All topped with a freshness of lemon and tangerine. christianlouboutin.com

Rasasi Tawleefa Al Ghalia The Tawleefa Al Ghalia a modern interpretation of the traditional Mukhallat, this fragrance opens with the notes of Italian bergamot on a background of spicy saffron and smoky accords, followed by the fresh and addictive scent of caramelised rose. Praline interlaces with amber woods at the heart of the fragrance and gradually flows into the musky base with woody undertones, particularly akigalawood for warmth and depth which gives the fragrance a distinct luxurious signature. rasasi.com

Parfums de Marly Oriana

Paco Rabanne Lady Million Fabulous

Delicate and airy like a muslin dress, Oriana surprises with a sparkling fruity and floral gourmet, designed entirely as a variation on texture, a ‘mille-feuille’ of flaky sweetness, softness, sensuality, energy, and light, which is anchored with euphoric and seductive notes of orange blossom.

A perfume designed as a mix of shining, solar notes and white florals - that clash with the magnetic sensuality of an Oriental woody base. The intro is sparkling, with fresh pink pepper and mandarin that open the melody with a vibrant beat. An illuminating fragrance that radiates with an exuberant sensual joy, so that like in a trance, all you want to do is dance. pacorabanne.com

pmarly.com

Thameen Blue Heart Haltane The seductive and bewitching elements of the illustrious Blue Heart Diamond are expressed in this olfactive gem by highlighting vanilla flower in the core, interplaying with the complexities of the exotic tones of saffron and white coconut. thameenfragrance.com

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BEAUTY TRENDS

June 2022

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

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Each Les Eaux de Chanel scent is a journey. Inspired by destinations beloved by Gabrielle Chanel, the collection features fresh fragrances for both men and women. Discover the ambery trail of PARIS-VENISE, recalling the city of shadow and light, the zesty, aromatic trail of PARIS-DEAUVILLE and the vibrant PARISRIVIERA, whose trail evokes the Côte d’Azur. chanel.com

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Sunk-Kissed Glow Bronzer Since launching in January 2022, Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin Foundation, a skincare and makeup hybrid formula that combines instant glow and medium coverage with long-term skin benefits, has gone on to be a best seller for the brand in record timing. Charlotte reveals the next magical step in your Beautiful Skin routine. Introducing the new Beautiful Skin Sun-Kissed Glow Bronzer in 4 new sun-kissed shades for face and body: fair, medium, tan, and deep. charlottetilbury.com

Fenti Skin Cookies N Clean Whipped Clay Detox Face Mask Indulge in a delicious detox! Fenty Skin introduces Cookies N Clean Whipped Clay Detox Face Mask, a detoxifying, fragrance-free whipped clay mask that visibly tightens pores, reduces excess oil and shine, and refines skin’s texture – all without stripping or drying out your skin. The clean, vegan, and gluten-free formula is suited for all skin types (even sensitive!) and will instantly improve skin’s texture and fight shine all day. fentyskin.com

Filorga Age-Purify Filorga, the well-renowned French skincare brand, unveils its Age-Purify Range of revolutionary anti-ageing skincare that has been designed, developed, and produced by the greatest aesthetic medicine doctors to tackle imperfections and wrinkles and improve the feel of your skin. Filorga has created a range accessible to everyone while targeting ageing and imperfection-prone skin, developed in partnership with aesthetic doctors and dermatologists. filorga.com

Glam Beauté Flormar Breathable Nail Paints Bring your A-game with your nails with UAE’s one-stop shop for affordable beauty and personal care, Glam Beauté. Glam Beauté’s curated selection of breathable nail paints from Flormar offer a glamorous and velvety finish on your nails. These super-fast-drying nail enamels protect the moisture of the nails, permeates both oxygen and water vapor and allows for healthy nail growth. glambeaute.com

HASK Cactus Water Weightless Moisture Collection Cactus Water Weightless Moisture Collection: Cactus is known for its ability to retain large amounts of water and nutrients. Hask has bottled up this hair holy grail which includes shampoo (AED 29), conditioner (AED29) and prickly pear seed leave-in spray (AED32) to create an ultra-nourishing & hydrating range. Using this combination of products alone is enough to get through the summer with fresh, hydrated locks! herbal-essentials.com

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June 2022

Juana Skin CBD-based Skincare Products Cannabidiol (CBD) is an incredibly effective ingredient in skincare due to it being a powerful antioxidant and providing antiinflammatory benefits. Juana Skin, the ethical and climateconscious beauty brand launched a range consisting of seven premium skincare products - the Brightening Day Cream, Ultra-Rich Night Cream, Face Oil, Cooling Gel, Deep Cleansing Emulsion, Velvety Body Butter, and Exfoliating Face Scrub. juanaskin.com

L’Occitane En Provence x Karen Wazen Beauty Box L’Occitane En Provence and Karen Wazen have collaborated to launch a beauty box in the Middle East. As a brand that truly believes in being cultivators of change, this box is dedicated to highlighting one of L’Occitane’s six commitments, Women Empowerment. Karen Wazen, a successful entrepreneur, and social media influencer is L’Occitane’s CSR brand ambassador to represent a key pillar to the brand. me.loccitane.com

M•A•C X Stranger Things Collection Introducing the new False Lash Effect XXL Mascara, inspired by salon lash extensions, and mastered by Max Factor – a mascara that gives a dramatic result that lasts all day. Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s new favorite combo for the perfect Eid eye look: NEW FLE XXL Mascara, NEW browfinity longwear brow tint, color Xpert waterproof liner, brow shaper pencil. The new XXL Mascara along with the other Max Factor eye products will be your best allies during to achieve the best eye looks. maxfactor.com

Max Factor X False Lash Effect XXL Mascara Introducing the new False Lash Effect XXL Mascara, inspired by salon lash extensions, and mastered by Max Factor – a mascara that gives a dramatic result that lasts all day. Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s new favorite combo for the perfect Eid eye look: NEW FLE XXL Mascara, NEW browfinity longwear brow tint, color Xpert waterproof liner, brow shaper pencil. The new XXL Mascara along with the other Max Factor eye products will be your best allies during to achieve the best eye looks. maxfactor.com

Milani Gilded Eyeshadow Palettes Metallics, neutrals and everything in-between – Milani has understood the assignment! Whether you’re going for a subtle no-makeup look or you feel like going all out, they’ve got you covered with these palettes. Showcasing rich pigments, gorgeous velvety mattes, and stunning shimmers, you are guaranteed to find something you love. milanicosmetics.com

LUST Luxe Lip Balm Lavish your lips with the sheer pleasure of haute hydration and tempting tinted translucence. This luscious balm is infused with a blend of soothing emollients, antioxidants and vitamins that repair and replenish the lips, keeping them sensuously smooth, kissably soft and prepped for further artistry. Presented in a pout-sized keepsake tin adorned with Pat’s signature golden lip design, the silky formula comes in two tantalizing veils of color. patmcgrath.com

FASHION - TRENDY

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June 2022

Trendy Fashion Saks Fifth Avenue, the go-to department store for fashion lovers in Bahrain, launched its summer 2022 collections from the likes of Givenchy, Stella McCartney, Jacquemus, Casablanca, Staud, and many other exclusive brands. Always the leader in bringing the latest trends to the Island, Saks has made no exception this season with head-turning trends straight off the runway and meticulously selected pieces for the sunny summer season ahead. The collections celebrate summer with spectacular colors, lightweight fabrics, and modern cuts. This season’s Saks It List includes coveted trends from coordinated sets, off-shoulder, street style to the maxi dress and pop of color. Saks invites you to discover the collections across the store, with something for every member of the family. Prepare to spend your summer in style, whether on a lavish holiday getaway, when enjoying a relaxing staycation, or even celebrating a special occasion. saksme.com

FASHION - BRIDAL

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June 2022

Tradition and Modernity The Oscar de la Renta SpringSummer 2023 bridal collection presents the Renaissance bride.

For Spring/Summer 2023, co-creative directors Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia found their inspiration from their Fall ready-to-wear collection: Florence, Italy; with the city’s many marble-floored palazzi serving as the grounding source of creativity. Taffeta and silk-faille gowns in grand proportions are highlighted by dramatic billowy sleeves and over-the-top bows. Delicate lace, floral appliqués, and ruffles are gently juxtaposed in both form-fitted and softly ethereal silhouettes. The collection is punctuated by a true showstopper: a multi-layered, couture silk fusion gown, featuring row upon row of faille petals fused and sewn by hand. This bride is traditional and modern at once a contradiction, yes, but one that Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia master with ease. oscardelarenta.com

FASHION - EVENING

The Power of Goodbye The Amjad Khalil Spring-Summer 2022 collection celebrates powerful women that overcome challenges.

The Libyan haute couture designer’s latest collection, titled The Power of Goodbye, depicts women’s pride after overcoming adversity, and how they emerge looking incredibly fashionable and striking. Amjad Khalil created this collection with the intention of highlighting and reversing all of the hardships that women have faced, as well as changing women’s perceptions of “goodbyes” and how it’s about being reborn through a tough yet empowering process. Khalil unquestionably transforms and purifies the prevailing negative impression of “goodbyes” into a positive movement in which most women feel active and empowered as a result of their different experiences. Khalil’s remarkable designs discretely showcase every woman’s delicacy while simultaneously emphasizing the strength that a “goodbye” can have. amjadkhalil.com

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June 2022

FASHION - MEN

By the SEA The Dolce&Gabbana Coral collection celebrates the marine world and its diversity.

The new line presents multicolored silk matching sets in shades ranging from pearl grey, forest green, lemon yellow, pink, and night blue. The fitting silhouettes – that evoke masculine sensuality - are embellished by an elegant and original coral print. The voluminous jackets, silk twill pajamas, and shirts, worn with coral jewellery and accessories, are proposed with matching treated denim jeans and shorts for a refreshing look. The collection, conceived for idle times on the seaside, also presents unique footwear pieces such as red coral-encrusted flip-flops, suede loafers and espadrilles with the crossover DG logo. dolcegabbana.com

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June 2022

FASHION - MEN

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June 2022

Ceaseless Imagination Dior men’s Fall 2022 collection celebrates new perspectives.

From counterculture to couture, this collection merges the atelier and the road, fusing the finesse of a Parisian couture Maison with the modern, casual ease of mid-American sportswear. All roads lead back to Dior: midcentury collections by Yves Saint Laurent and Marc Bohan inspire checked tweeds, bias-cut into soft collegiate coats – a supple lightness added to Dior’s signature tailoring. Fair Isle knits are intricately embroidered with sequins, and cloqués are woven with the “CD Diamond” logo. Original foulards silks from the 1960s are rewoven, and

the graphics of a series of Dior carré scarves adorn shirts and jackets. Illustrations from the first-edition book jackets of Kerouac works are hand-painted and printed onto silk and leather, translating literature through the language of couture. The collection is underpinned with vintage washed denim, the most American of fabrics, whose origin is nevertheless traced back to France, where it got its original name – serge de Nîmes. dior.com

FASHION - WOMEN

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June 2022

An Eclectic Mix The Ralph Lauren Spring 2022 Women’s Collection melds bohemian spirit with chic and classic sensibility. Ralph Lauren celebrates his Spring 2022 Women’s Collection with a new campaign shot on the picturesque beaches of Mexico. The campaign evokes a spirit of adventure that is quintessential to Ralph Lauren’s design aesthetic, and embraces the youthful optimism expressed through the Collection’s eclectic yet effortless mix of bold colors, patterns, and textures. Soft, fluid dressing reflects the ease of the Collection, and draws on the romantic allure of a tropical vacation when met with hand-painting

techniques, intricate threadwork, beading, and fringe. Ikat-inspired patterns bring a fresh flair to classic shirting, dresses, and even a tailcoat and cummerbund; making a bold statement when paired back to contrasting patterns of pinstripes and plaids. Mr. Lauren’s love of warm-weather beach wear, specifically the sarong, served as an inspiration for dresses and jumpsuits that are elegant for evening while maintaining a breezy, lightweight feel. ralphlauren.com

FASHION - WOMEN

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June 2022

Celebrating CONNECTIONS Alexander McQueen’s Autumn-Winter 2022 Collection is inspired by Mycelium.

The collection is inspired by that idea of community, and specifically by mycelium, by the reality of nature as a community that is far, far older than we are. Mycelium connects even the rooftop of the tallest skyscraper to the plants, to the grass, to the ground, to animals and to human beings. Mycelium has the most profound, interconnecting power, relaying messages through a magical underground structure, allowing trees to reach out to each other when either they or their young need help or are sick. The idea is humbling – beautiful - and, of course, a metaphor for interconnection and for community between people, between us all. We exist as single, individual entities on one level, but we are far more powerful connected to each other, to our families, to our friends, to our community. alexandermcqueen.com

BAGS

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June 2022

EXQUISITE STYLE

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

Balenciaga Hourglass XS tote bag Try a sweet style with this crocodile effect piece. In a soft white leather complemented perfectly by the silver-tone hardware, this mini bag is the perfect addition to your look. Not one to put on the floor on the tube. Featuring an embossed crocodile effect, a logo plaque, a foldover top with magnetic closure, a round top handle and a removable shoulder strap.

Dolce&Gabbana Large Cordonetto Lace Shopper Featuring an exclusive design, this large Beatrice shopper symbolizes craftsmanship and refinement. The fine cordonetto lace, which embodies Sicilian tradition and represents the brand’s signature aesthetic, creates the image of a feminine and unique woman. Completely unlined, it has double handles and features the branded heart.

balenciaga.com dolcegabbana.com

Dior Medium Lady D-Lite Bag Fluorescent Blue Toile De Jouy Reverse Embroidery The Lady D-Lite bag combines classic elegance with House modernity. Part of the Dioriviera capsule collection, the silhouette is fully embroidered with the fluorescent blue Toile de Jouy Reverse motif and punctuated with the ‘CHRISTIAN DIOR PARIS’ signature on the front, while ‘D.I.O.R.’ charms in pale gold-finish metal enhance and illuminate the silhouette. dior.com

Ferragamo Iconic Top Handle Small top handle bag in ostrich with a gold Gancini clasp. Iconic Top Handle bag is a re-release of one of the Ferragamo brand’s best-known styles and it embodies the many facets of the female essence, starting from the wide range of colors and materials available. ferragamo.com

Fendi Baguette Brooch Fendace Black Leather Bag Iconic, boxy Baguette bag from the Versace by Fendi collection. Made of smooth black leather embellished with five Medusa safety pin brooches on each side. FF closure with black plexiglass embellished with a brooch. fendi.com

Gucci Diana An evolution of a bamboo handle tote first introduced in 1991, the design the notion of style in constant evolution and is reimagined with removable, neon leather belts – a nod to the functional bands used to keep the handles in shape. gucci.com

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Ounass Rita Mini Shopper Bag in Satin Malone Souliers’ penchant for sculptural shapes is on show in the Rita mini shopper bag. Expertly made from shimmering satin, the bag is sized to hold the essentials and lined with fabric so they’re well protected too. ounass.ae

Louis Vuitton Petite Malle Part of the LV Match capsule, a salute to Grand Slam tennis, this Petite Malle handbag is made from puffy, Monogram embossed lambskin. White calfskin trim contrasts with the terracotta leather, a nod to the lines on a clay court. Fun and fashionable, this luxurious “little trunk” can be carried as a clutch or worn on its detachable strap. louisvuitton.com

Schiaparelli Anatomy Jewelry Bag Bag in black calfskin with double-gusset construction featuring a central zip pocket and anatomical gilded brass adornments. Gilded brass zipper pull is engraved with Schiaparelli. This bag is crafted from black leather features gilded brass adornments, including facial features. schiaparelli.com

YSL Fanny Medium Chain Bag In Mesh With Rhinestones A fanny medium bag with a soft structure, it’s decorated with strass and features a metallic front flap with snap closure and an embossed saint Laurent Paris signature. Made in Italy and is 100% strass with silver-toned metal hardware and metal snap closure. ysl.com

Valentino One Stud Nappa Bag with Chain Valentino Garavani One Stud bag in Lambskin Nappa with chain. Front closure with maxi stud detail. The bag can be worn as a crossbody/shoulder bag thanks to the adjustable chain. It features antique brass finish on stud and metal parts, magnetic closure, and nappa lining interior. valentino.com

Versace La Medusa Foulard Basket Bag This woven straw basket bag is wrapped with a Royal Rebellion foulard and features the La Medusa plaque at the front. Logo-engraved plexiglass ring handles and leather shoulder straps complete the spacious design. versace.com

SHOES - MEN

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Christian Louboutin Navy Dandelion Strass With slender and clean lines, the Navy Dandelion Strass loafer is set apart by its elegance. It is designed in suede calf leather with tone-on-tone grosgrain trim. The upper is embellished with the signature Maison Christian Louboutin red strass for an audacious look. christianlouboutin.com

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

Dolce&Gabbana Mixed-Material Airmaster Sneakers The Air Master sneakers feature an ultra-light upper and have been inspired by iconic Daymaster sneakers and are perfect for wearing when off-duty. Coming in nylon and calfskin, they feature suede details and a rubber label with micro-injection logo. dolcegabbana.com

Dior B27 Low-Top Sneaker Crafted in red, gray, and white smooth calfskin, the style is adorned with beige and black Dior Oblique jacquard inserts on the sides. The sneaker is enhanced with ‘CD Icon’ eyelets as well as numerous hallmark details on the two-tone rubber sole, tongue and back. dior.com

Fendi Fendace Black Leather Loafers Versace by Fendi loafers with visible stitched shoe apron and upper decorated with Fendi O’Lock and Versace Medusa detail. Made of black leather. Injection-molded soles that combine the iconic Fendi FF logo with the Versace Baroque motif. Gold-finish metalware. fendi.com

Gucci Men’s Run Sneaker Designs inspired by the sporting world are interpreted through the Gucci lens with standout logo details. This pair of streamlined sneakers is crafted from white technical knit fabric and defined by the Interlocking G. A bi-color sole completes the style with a playful note of chromatic contrast. gucci.com

Lanvin Mesh Flash-X Sneakers New original Lanvin creation, the Flash-X stands out by its original design and technicity. Made from pieces of technical materials all custom made, it surprises by its roundness, its palette of colors and its comfort. lanvin.com

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Louis Vuitton Nike Air Force 1 Prior to his untimely passing last November, Louis Vuitton creative director Virgil Abloh created a series of Nike Air Force 1 sneakers, celebrating its status as a cultural symbol via bespoke luxury versions. Now the French Maison is bringing some of them to market. The first time the iconic shoe has been crafted outside of a Nike factory, they’re sure to be in high demand. louisvuitton.com

Off White Out of Office “Ooo” Sneakers A low-top silhouette with hybridized street, basketball, and running influences, these white “OUT OF OFFICE” sneakers feature a black arrow on the side, off-white logo on the back, black and grey rubber sole, and white lace-up closure. off---white.com

Prada Brushed Leather Sneakers Since the ‘90s, brushed leather, traditionally used in fine classic footwear, has been reinterpreted in Prada collections on contemporary designs like these sneakers with a sleek line: the result is a hybrid style that reflects the duality of the brand. The enameled metal triangle logo decorates the shoe. prada.com

Valentino VLogo Chain Calfskin Loafer These VLogo Chain Valentino Garavani Loafers come in calfskin and feature antique brass-finish VLogo Chain and leather sole. Made in Italy, they have a heel height of 20mm. Founded in 1960, the Maison Valentino is a protagonist of international fashion, and from 2008 until 2016, has gone through an impactful creative evolution. valentino.com

Versace Trigreca Sneakers The latest addition to Versace’s coveted sneaker family, the Trigreca bring innovation to the brand’s ever-evolving aesthetic. Referencing Versace DNA, the Trigreca feature three prominent Greca executions: the midsole lateral, medial, and the bottom of the outsole. versace.com

YSL Stan Monkstraps In Smooth Leather Monkstraps made with metal-free tanned leather with a pointed toe and a stacked heel, they feature three straps with metal buckles. Made from 100% calfskin leather, they are made from chrome free and metal free tanned leather. ysl.com

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Amina Muaddi Ursina Crystal-Embellished Pvc And Metallic Leather Pumps Amina Muaddi’s ‘Ursina’ pumps are reminiscent of the famed glass slipper. Made from clear PVC and silver leather, they have sleek pointed toes and high stiletto heels. Just watch how the crystal-encrusted straps sparkle as they catch the light. aminamuaddi.com

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

Christian Louboutin Hot Chick The Hot Chick pump is an iconic Maison Christian Louboutin design featuring a bold cut enhanced with a pointed toe and V-shaped notches. It is set on a 100 mm stiletto heel and is crafted entirely in white patent calf leather lined with the Lexi Loubi print, inspired by Ancient Greek writing. christianlouboutin.com

Aquazzura Babe Sandal 105 The Babe Sandal is the perfect accessory for a night out on the town. Italian-made from silky satin in soft powder pink, the pairs focal point is a glittery embellishment at the open toe. The pin-thin heel is supported by a comfortable strap that keeps the foot in place. Perfect with cropped trousers or a sleek mini. aquazzura.com

June 2022

Fendi First Fendace Black Leather HighHeeled Sandals Versace by Fendi’s Fendi First sandals with asymmetric lines. Made of black leather and gold-finished metal chain with the FF logo and Versace Medusa, born of the creative collaboration between Fendi and Versace. Diagonal F-shaped sculpted heel in gold-colored metal. fendi.com

Dolce&Gabbana Iridescent PVC Pumps The new Next Chapter fashion show represents a tribute to new generations and embodies the interaction between the brand’s signature aesthetic and the world of contemporary robotic technology. The new Cardinale pumps come in iridescent-effect PVC. dolcegabbana.com

Givenchy Sandals in Leather With G Cube Heel These buffed lambskin-heeled sandals come in black. They feature open round toe, adjustable pin-buckle ankle strap, block heel with logo hardware, tonal leather sole, and gold-tone hardware. Made in Italy, they have approximately 3.5” heels. givenchy.com

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June 2022

Jennifer Chamandi Lorenzo 105 Red Suede The iconic Lorenzo pump combines timeless elegance with Jennifer Chamandi’s patented ‘Eye of the Needle’ heel signature. Flawless Red Suede is handcrafted by Italian artisans into a comfortable and supremely balanced pump with a 105mm heel-the perfect height for practical sophistication from day to night. jenniferchamandi.com

Gucci Women’s GG Sandals The latest collections take reference from the archives of the ‘90s and early ‘2000s, with pieces inspired from Tom Ford’s era in Gucci. The new idea of femininity shows glamorous details, such as lace, crystals, and sheer fabrics. This pair of sandals are presented in a black mesh with a sparkling GG motif. gucci.com

Malone Souliers Frida 90mm Frida is a playful, square-toed, heeled sandal that references ‘90s silhouettes. Debuting in white Nappa Leather for our Runway 2022 collection, its architectural heel and colorful Elastic strap imbue unique energy. Handmade in Italian workshops, its toe strap is woven from archival materials, complementing our commitment to zero-waste. malonesouliers.com

Valentino Satin Rockstud Pump with AllOver Tubes Embroidery and Straps 100mm Valentino Garavani Rockstud pump with straps, entirely embroidered with tubular pearls. Made in Italy, they feature platinum-finish studs, tone-on-tone calfskin straps and trims, adjustable straps, and have a heel height of 100mm. valentino.com

Versace Medusa Crystal Pumps An elegant finishing touch to evening looks, these pointedtoe pumps are enriched with a crystalized Medusa hardware. They feature Medusa Biggie crystal hardware, pointed toe, an outer fabric of 67% Viscose and 33% Silk, and 100% calf leather soles. versace.com

YSL Nuit Sandals in Patent Leather Saint Laurent has been influencing and revolutionizing the fashion industry since the debut of its iconic ‘Rive Gauche’ collection in 1966 - the couture house was the first to create a ready-towear capsule. The sleek, precisely tailored staples, like the signature biker jackets, transcend seasons and trends. ysl.com

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June 2022

01, 02 The incredible exterior of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Monument to the Arts The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is part of an international constellation of museums, which allows it to access an extensive Permanent Collection comprised from all the works in the Guggenheim collections, including the Bilbao holdings. These works complement one another and, together, offer an in-depth, expanded view of modern and contemporary art.

The Art Program is comprised from presentations from the Permanent Collection and a program of high-quality special exhibitions, which offer our audiences a broad and dynamic panorama of the art of our time. Designed by US architect Frank Gehry, the Museum building is a large sculpture made of titanium, limestone, and glass, and has become the most recognizable icon of the city of Bilbao. The exhibition galleries, some boasting surprising shapes, others with orthogonal configurations, are organized around a spectacular Atrium, crowned with a metallic flower over its skylight. The complex and mutually enriching dialogue between the art exhibited and the architecture of the building, and the versatility of the

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao spaces favor a unique museum experience. Some of the notable creations featured at the museum include Puppy by Jeff Koons, Untitled by Mark Rothko, The Matter of Time by Richard Serra, The Land of the Two Rivers by Anselm Kiefer, How Profound is the Air by Eduardo Chillida, and Maman by Louise Bourgeois. The Guggenheim Museums-Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York; Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice; and Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, as well as the projected Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Museum-are part of an international network that allows them to benefit from synergies and share resources, projects, and collections.

Founded in 1937, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of art, architecture, and other manifestations of visual culture, primarily of the modern and contemporary periods, and to the collection, conservation, and study of the art of our time. The Foundation has recently incorporated new challenges to its mission. The Foundation realizes this mission through exceptional exhibitions, education programs, research initiatives, and publications, and strives to engage and educate an increasingly diverse international audience through its unique network of museums and cultural partnerships. guggenheim-bilbao.eus

“The Foundation has recently incorporated new challenges to its mission.”

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03 Puppy by Jeff Koons 04 Tall Tree & The Eye by Anish Kapoor 05 The Atrium of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

June 2022

VIDAHOTELS.COM

+973 7748 8100

@VIDABAHRAIN

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Unmatched DESIGN Made by Shepherd Studio, the Tila Chair is hand-finished and composed of 210 stainless steel spheres. The design borrows its conceptual and aesthetic language from the traditional folk game of Tila (marbles), combining the communal nature of the game and its components as a metaphor for density.

The array of entwined spheres shape the skin of the object, coupled by tubular profiles which creates its anatomy. Its chrome finish is intended to complement and reflect its context and surroundings. The Tila Chair by Shepherd Studio has recently won Best ‘Metal Morphosis’ by the Wallpaper Design Award 2022, the world’s number one global design destination and publication, championing the best in architecture, interiors, fashion, art, and contemporary lifestyle. Shepherd Studio is a trans-disciplinary design practice, aiming to provide creative schemes

that range from architectural, spatial, digital, and product-based outcomes. The studio’s methodology involves a cross-curricular way of thinking, in a pursuit to actualize the possibilities of human imagination through analytical, rational, and logical inquiry. The practice has worked on a number of projects between Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and the United Kingdom. Architecture lies at the core of the studio, while other experimental projects are prevalent. @shepherd.studio

June 2022

“Its chrome finish is intended to

complement and reflect its context and surroundings.”

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DISRUPTING the Narrative Leveraging the censorship-resistant benefits of blockchain, Art Is will offer a full suite of services including NFT minting, digital and physical exhibitions, and feature documentary production. Founded by a group of futurists with a passion for fine art and specialized expertise in blockchain technology, ART IS is an NFT driven platform offering a full suite of services designed to help artists navigate the digital and physical sea-change disrupting the art market today. The group helps artists amplify their message to a highly engaged, vast global audience through specialized NFT minting services, documentary film profiles, digital exhibition space, and a network of gallery spaces in New York City, Malibu, and Beverly Hills. ART IS partnerships already established include Pilar Zeta, Malik Roberts, Michael Christopher Brown, and Tom Franco, and more, with the first ART IS exhibition with Lindsey Price in Malibu launched on April 28, 2022. “Our ultimate goal is to democratize art curation and through blockchain technology, support artists with a global platform that allows them to showcase their work how, when, and where they choose,” says ART IS Founder and CEO Gabriel Paxton, a serial entrepreneur, blockchain specialist, and virtual reality expert, “Through ART IS, we are proud to onboard artists into the Metaverse, minting and exhibiting their NFT artwork using the power of the blockchain, and amplifying their work to a highly engaged international audience like never before.” Art is no longer just displayed and experienced at the local institutional level, which is why ART IS has broadened its scope beyond its physical exhibition spaces in New York City (with Allouche Gallery), and on the West Coast in Malibu and Beverly Hills. These venues represent just one facet of the group’s dual digital-physical platforms. The company specializes in onboarding artists to Web3 and the Metaverse, taking a collaborative approach with each partner to conceptualize and produce NFT applications and entire digital collections

that best reflect their artistic vision. The group’s digital hub serves as an NFT minting portal for artists, an NFT marketplace, virtual catalog, and gallery, with a membership component that will offer significant value, rewards, and utilities associated with ART IS NFT collections. Regardless of an individual’s chosen medium, says ART IS Co-Founder and Head of Talent Dom Wojnarowski, “ART IS takes an inclusive approach to artist curation and collaboration. We seek to work with creative collaborators whose highly individual worldviews shine through cohesive bodies of work, whether through traditional visual art forms, avantgarde installations, digital creations, or performing arts.” The NFT driven ART IS platform also offers a measure of censorship protection to vulnerable artists working to effect social change at the grassroots level. According to David Li, ART IS Head of Content and Strategy and former HBO executive, “At ART IS, we believe that art is inseparable from narrative. Each artist has a story to tell,” he says. “That is why our team is producing original documentary programming to help each artist broadcast their vision to the world, and in doing so, exponentially boost their positive impact.” Each episode in the dynamic eight-part series will follow the classic “hero’s journey,” revealing their creative processes, core beliefs, and unique community influence, while challenging assumptions and the status quo. The ART IS documentary series will be presented at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, and following its debut, the series will engage audiences across multiple channels. Further ART IS exhibitions and film premiers will be announced in the coming weeks. discoverartis.com

June 2022

01 Art by Pilar Zeta

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“ART IS is an NFT driven platform

offering a full suite of services designed to help artists navigate the digital and physical sea-change disrupting the art market today.” 02, 03 Art by Malik Roberts 04 Art by Lindsey Price

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June 2022

01 The Lavazza family at the new headquarters

A Sensory Journey

At the Lavazza Museum, works of art can not only be seen but also touched, felt, and experienced through sounds, images, and aromas that engage all the senses. This interactive and multisensory experience traces the history of the company and the coffee supply chain through five themed areas: Casa Lavazza, La Fabbrica, La Piazza, L’Atelier, and L’Universo. This innovative business museum, designed by international exhibition design firm Ralph Appelbaum and located in the Nuvola Lavazza, takes visitors on a sensory and emotional journey through global coffee culture. Adjacent to the museum is the Lavazza Historical Archive, which contains the corporate memory of more than 120 years of history, represented by over 8,500 documents, stories and pictures. Entering the Lavazza Museum plunges visitors into a journey through the world of coffee and its rituals. Visitors are guided through the exhibitions by the Lavazza Cup, the first smart espresso coffee cup, which they are given at the entrance to the museum and use to activate multimedia installations and content. And in an important innovation for the museum world, it is also used

to memorize the sequence of visitors’ interactions, because while it may look like a normal espresso coffee cup, in fact it contains a special RFID sensor (Radio Frequency IDentification) that interacts with the museum’s complex IT system. Visitors simply place their cup on the interactive displays throughout the museum to interact with the screens and take souvenir photographs using the special stands. Finally, at the end of the visit, the smart coffee cup gives visitors the chance to relive their experiences in the Lavazza Museum, activate new immersive projections, and send the desired content to their own email address. The Lavazza Museum - part of the national association Museimpresa - has an impressive multimedia system (with over 52 interaction points) and a highly evocative narrative soundtrack

written by the Holden School with the supervision of Alessandro Baricco. The museum itinerary is divided into 5 “galleries”, each with its own particular appearance and theme. The museum springs from an idea by and the determination of Francesca, Antonella and Manuela Lavazza, who together coordinated the project and work group. Francesca identified the themes and main features of the narrative, Manuela contributed to the contemporary development approach applied to multimedia and interactive design, and Antonella proposed and supervised the development of the Historical Archive, drawing on a complex discovery and research process that began in 2011. lavazza.com

“Entering the Lavazza Museum plunges visitors into a journey through the world of coffee and its rituals.”

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June 2022

02, 03, 04, 05, 06 Installations at the museum

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June 2022

“Outdoor enthusiasts and large families alike

will find a home away from home in the park’s abundant space.”

01 Hadiqat Al Diyar, Diyar Al Muharraq’s largest park 02 A safe and modern playground area for children

A New Green Haven

Embedded within Bahrain’s former capital, Muharraq, and inspired by the history in which it resides, the integrated city of Diyar Al Muharraq continues to emulate the traditional values and family ties that define this country.

The Masterplan contains a balanced mix of commercial, entertainment, and iconic waterfront residential projects, including all the conveniences of vibrant, thriving community, with a variety of leisure and recreational facilities including educational establishments, medical centers, shopping malls, retails shops, hospitality offerings, parks, beaches and marinas, to name a few. But beyond all that, Diyar Al Muharraq encompasses a self-contained, futuristic township, that pays tribute to the Kingdom’s rich history and immortalizes the long-standing traditions of the past. Diyar has pioneered itself as a City of opportunity, consistently meeting the ever-evolving needs of its residents and visitors alike who seek a sense of home and familiarity within the comforts of a close-knit community. As social creatures, human beings thrive on social interaction. Spending time outdoors within green spaces, with family and friends, promotes a relaxed state of mind, boosting immunity and relieving the stress and anxiety that is inevitable in modern day life. By harnessing the power of green spaces and the

restorative nature of waterfront living, Diyar’s ethos is manifested in its promise of a holistic lifestyle. The integrated City fosters an active, thriving community, by way of its balanced mixed of sports fields, running tracks, and beaches. From a social aspect, Diyar maintains an innate sense of community inspired by shared urban spaces across its Masterplan, with each neighborhood and residential space intentionally equipped with easy access to shared amenities and facilities. In the wake of the pandemic, and the increased popularization of outdoor activities, Diyar Al Muharraq set off to invest in the development of its largest park – Hadiqat Al Diyar – which was strategically designed to fulfil a rising need amongst the Diyar residents for larger, all-encompassing social spaces, safe for the families to frequent. A manifestation of Diyar’s commitment to improving the lifestyle of its residents and inspiring a closer bond between its various residential pockets, Hadiqat Al Diyar is located near the main entrance of Diyar Al Muharraq with close access to the Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa Grand

Mosque. The park boats an area of 32,800 square meters with stunning, lush green spaces which can accommodate a large number of visitors. Hadiqat 02Al Diyar is equipped with more than 200 parking spots, a designated area for food trucks, in addition to Loop Café – a unique Bahraini concept café that sells all the staples of a modern coffee shop with an adjacent bike rental shop. In line with Diyar’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, the park benefits from solar lights; adding to the vast number of solar lights that have been installed across the City. The park also prides itself on fostering an eco-friendly culture, where visitors are able to rent high-tech e-bikes providing an environmentally conscious means of transportation. Perfectly blending an active lifestyle with the spirit of teamwork, a number of sports fields have been integrated within the park to encourage a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle, including football, basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts; alongside a rubber floor running track. Furthermore, Hadiqat Al Diyar features seven Bahrain Padel courts, which can host up to four players at a time.

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03 Loop Café 04 Running track 05 An outdoor gym area

June 2022

Designed with the highest standards, the entire sports area has been built to include dedicated facilities to serve people with special needs, fully geared with the suitable equipment recommended by rehabilitation professionals and physiotherapists which were consulted during development. Adding to the abundance of amenities in store for the park’s visitors and array of outdoor sports fields and spaces, the park’s approximately 400 square meter play area invites children to enjoy their time outdoors in a safe space. Ultimately, the park provides visitors with the opportunity to meet like-minded people who share their hobbies, and residents with the opportunity to bond with their neighbors, all within easy access to the rest of Diyar’s thriving city which is only a stone’s throw away. Above all, Hadiqat Al Diyar preserves the Bahraini family values; it brings together residents from within the city and visitors outside its doors, encouraging them to bond in a shared space and vibrant, familyfriendly atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts and large families alike will find a home away from home in the park’s abundant space. Much like the old neighborhoods of Muharraq, it’s the perfect place to catch up and form new friendships - or maintain old ones - over a cup of traditional Arabic ‘gahwa’ or devotedly brewed black tea. diyar.bh 06

06, 07 Colorful Padel courts

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The Ultimate IN PRESTIGE The chic Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique offers discernable guests a unique experience with over 800 watches on display. 01 The interior was developed in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists

Every aspect of the boutique, located in City Centre Bahrain, was delicately designed using the highest quality material to reflect Arabian culture. The extensive Rolex collection is on display in gorgeous walnut showcases. From the moment customers step inside, they are met with the outstanding interior, developed in cooperation with Rolex Interior Design Specialists to reflect a perfectionist approach. The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland, and the Murano chandelier in Italy, creating an atmosphere that illustrates the level of privacy Rolex offers, especially in the exclusive VIP suite dedicated for private viewings. Professional staff, many of whom have been with Modern Art Studio for over 30 years, are ready to deliver valuable advice. The boutique is the largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world. Founded in 1936 by Naji Murad, Modern Art Studio’s 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. Modern Art Studio’s new Rolex showroom was opened in 1978. The shop featured exclusive showcases which not only displayed the watches but were also cleverly designed into individual letters spelling the name ROLEX. Richard and David Murad, the sons of Naji Murad, have taken the reins of Modern Art Studio, which 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. Today, Modern Art Studio remains at the forefront of promoting Rolex and Tudor watches in the Gulf. masbahrain.com

June 2022

“The boutique is the largest Rolex

Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world.”

ARCHITECTURE

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02 The largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East 03, 05 The atmosphere offers privacy and professionalism synonymous with the Rolex brand 04 Modern Art Studio was appointed in 1940 as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf 06 The shop features an extensive Rolex collection of over 800 watches

04 05

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BOUTIQUE Experience

The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.

BUCCELLATI DUBAI, UAE Buccellati is proud to announce the opening of a new boutique at Dubai Mall, situated in downtown Dubai and considered to be the most visited retail and lifestyle destination in the world, welcoming over 100 million visitors every year. Buccellati is therefore among the over 150 shopping and dining experiences at Fashion Avenue, home of luxury in the Middle East, with unique architecture, captivating artistic and stylish interiors. The boutique will showcase the most iconic jewellery collections, such as Hawaii, Macri, Ramage, Rombi and Opera, as well as one-of-akind creations exuding excellence in craftsmanship and true “Made in Italy” style. The boutique will also display silver centerpieces, giftware, and tableware, together with precious jeweled watches for ladies and engraved timepieces for men. The new Dubai opening is part of an expansion project that our Maison is putting in place, which will include new boutique openings in the next few months in the Middle East and Worldwide. The Dubai Mall boutique design is inspired by the traditional Buccellati interior style with the traditional antique gold showcases and a VIP room with antique original boiserie. buccellati.com

June 2022

ARCHITECTURE

DOLCE&GABBANA MILAN, ITALY Following the preview presentation of the Collection in Venice in August 2021, Dolce&Gabbana announced the opening of its first two boutiques in the world dedicated to the universe of furniture in Milan on Corso Venezia 7 and Via Durini 23. Blu Mediterraneo, Leopardo, Carretto Siciliano and Zebra: the themes of the Dolce&Gabbana Casa Collection come to life on furniture, table accessories, fabrics and decorative objects that evoke the lifestyle, the respect for tradition and innovation that have always been part of the brand’s DNA. The new boutique on Corso Venezia 7 hosts the furnishing accessories of the Collection: twill and duchesse cushions, printed quilts, mouth-blown Murano glasses and Sicilian ceramic plates for a complete mise en place, while the scented candles and lacquered wood accessories celebrate the best of Italian craftsmanship and the art of home living. From the large fabric sofas to the lacquered oak tables, to the accessorized bar cabinets, the furniture of Dolce&Gabbana Casa find their place in the boutique on Via Durini 23, realized in partnership with Luxury Living Group, a leading company in the luxury and lifestyle furniture segment. dolcegabbana.com

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“Dolce&Gabbana announced the opening of its first

two boutiques in the world dedicated to the universe of furniture in Milan on Corso Venezia 7 and Via Durini 23.”

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June 2022

HENRY JACQUES PARIS, FRANCE A place where all your senses intertwine, a magnificent space dedicated exclusively to Haute Parfumerie: Henry Jacques now has a home in the heart of Paris. The Maison’s flagship boutique opened on 2 Avenue Montaigne, a grand boutique, with one of Paris’ most iconic addresses. Never before has a small, family run perfumer created a space of this scale dedicated to a single product: perfume. Those wishing to delve into Henry Jacques’ history, creations and savoir-faire will be left in wonderment in the 400 sqm space, a true testament to the Maison’s incredible craftsmanship. The Avenue Montaigne boutique is Henry Jacques’ ninth in the world, and a real flagship. A Maison with French roots, but worldly expertise, it was only natural for Paris to be the company’s next home, expanding its horizons and opening further to the public than possible with its previous Private Salon in the capital. This Avenue Montaigne boutique is undoubtedly amongst the most majestic, a prestigious hub for Henry Jacques to welcome its guests, borne from Creative Director Christophe Tollemer’s desire to create a home away from home, warm and welcoming, yet where absolute beauty is expressed in the most infinitesimal detail. parfumshenryjacques.com

ARCHITECTURE

AMOUAGE MUSCAT, OMAN Amouage has inaugurated its new boutique in Muscat, where the perfume maker’s story began four decades ago. Behind the crystalline glass façade, the curated space in Mall of Oman is home to a breathtaking artistic depiction of a solar eclipse in the Omani desert, designed by architecture firm Heroine Paris. The finest natural stones are an essential ingredient of the balanced and expansive sculptural interior of the new boutique. Monumental cream travertine slabs wrap the inside, juxtaposing with hand carved raw greige sandstone. At the epicenter of the space, the tranquil serene palette is abruptly interrupted by the geometric monumentalism of a 3 meters high stone sphere, a contemporary sculpture custom- commissioned by Renaud Salmon. The orb is surrounded by an amphitheater of screens, which presents a seasonal digital-art program curated by Amouage as well as provide a venue for performances and live events. For the opening, it showcases a unique film named “Eclipse”, from award winning French director Thomas Vanz. The movie explores the synesthetic relationship between light, music and scents, featuring an original soundtrack from Belgian music producer Copal. The approach is part of the Amouage Art Project, which has seen the House partner with several Omani and international artists and commission or acquire art pieces. The modern new space located on level 3 of the Mall of Oman carries the Amouage’s full range of Eaux de Parfum, Extraits de Parfum and Attars in addition to home, bath and body products. Visitors also have the possibility to curate their very own Gift of Kings coffrets, choosing among hundreds of fragrance and leather cases possibilities. amouage.com

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A FLAIR for Flavor Lyre’s has launched its award-winning alcohol-free beverages in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with imminent plans to expand into the rest of the GCC.

The selected non-alcoholic spirits were unveiled in Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, alongside over 100 VIPs and special guests – all invited to “make it a Lyre’s” for the first time ever in the region. As a special welcome, a 30-metre “marhaba” greeting and lyrebird logo were sculpted into the beach at the foot of the iconic hotel, courtesy of record-breaking sand artist, Nathan Apalide. Made from all natural ingredients and crafted to resemble classic spirits, the award-winning Australian brand offers an elevated alternative to other nonalcoholic drinks, with incredibly nuanced flavors and exquisite bottle designs that evoke a vintage look and feel. Each spirit looks and tastes like its counterpart, ensuring all the flavor and artisanal appeal of finely prepared cocktail, without alcohol. Lyre’s will be available across a wide range of five-star hotels and outlets across the UAE, including Hilton and Marriott properties, where the range will enjoy preferred partner status. The seven available options include Amaretti, Italian Spritz, American Malt, Dark Cane, Dry London and their homage to sparkling Prosecco – Classico. The range is set to expand later in 2022, adding new flavors and even more non-alcoholic cocktail options to enjoy.

As the names imply, the selection pays homage the most beloved spirits and sparkling offerings enjoyed across the world. Within its global range, Lyre’s now offers 16 premium non-alcoholic spirits, with a premixed, ready-to-drink range that includes 0.0% alcohol G&T, and American Malt & cola, with a ‘Dark & Spicy’ option that evokes the popular dark ‘n’ stormy highball cocktail. “Our plans for the Middle East have surprisingly little to do with culture or geography. It’s more about being in tune with society as a whole,” said Mark Livings, Lyre’s Founder and CEO who started the Lyre’s journey in 2019. “From Millennials to Gen Zs, we’re all drinking less alcohol than before, and ‘mindful drinking’ transcends borders. We’ve even won awards against established alcohol brands.” Following a soft launch at MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants in February, the official Lyre’s launch was held this afternoon at Gilt, a vibrant cocktail bar, and attended by Livings. Guests were treated to a range of tantalizing tipples made with Lyre’s, including bubbly Classico, aromatic Espresso Martinis and refreshing Italian Spritz-style cocktails – all with zero alcohol content.

“We’re equally excited to bring Lyre’s to Saudi Arabia, expanding our global footprint to more than 60 countries. Just over two years ago, we sold our first bottle of Lyre’s and today we’re selling a bottle every 30 seconds. With that pace, we’re on track to become the fastest independent beverage brand to reach Unicorn status,” added CEO Livings. Within those 60+ countries, Lyre’s sells across multiple channels, including direct-to-consumer via its website, as well in leading restaurants, bars, and retailers – including over a dozen of The World’s 50 Best Bars, Nobu Restaurants, and Bvlgari and The Ritz-Carlton hotels. Lyre’s is also available on a number of airlines. Each vintage-style bottle tells a story, with an illustrated animal creating a narrative and ‘personifying’ each lovingly crafted spirit. The selected animal also sparks a sense of place that anchors each product to a region, such as the London pigeon, American bear, and the Caribbean parrot. For Lyre’s, the Middle East is the next chapter in the brand’s story, with plenty to ‘cheers’ so far. lyres.com

“Our plans for the Middle East have

surprisingly little to do with culture or geography.”

03 04 01, 02, 03, 04 Lyre’s range of non-alcoholic beverages

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Culinary

Excellence Eneko Atxa’s passion and sensitivity, his cultural roots, links with the environment and its products, and the traditional Basque culinary recipes have been and continue to be the foundations of each of his creations. Durrah talks to the talented chef to discover more about his unique dining outlets and kitchen philosophy. WHAT INFLUENCE DID YOUR FAMILY HAVE ON YOUR CULINARY CAREER? I have always associated the best moments of my childhood and my youth with the kitchen, which was the nerve center of my house. My mother and grandmother cooked and all the rest of us enjoyed. This association has always led me to keep in mind that pleasure and gastronomy go hand in hand.

WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING YOU WHEN YOU FOUNDED AZURMENDI RESTAURANT? Azurmendi was born in 2005 with the clear idea of creating a space of gastronomic interest with its own cuisine identity and with a view to the world can be made. In the beginning, when the means available to you are not too many, the efforts are titanic to try to win over customers. Now we continue with the same tenacity and the same obsession to win over each client, but time, maturity and knowledge help us to do things better and has taught me to interpret what I think clients want.

HOW DOES THE SOPHISTICATED ARCHITECTURE REFLECT THE ENEKO DINING PHILOSOPHY? Azurmendi is a bioclimatic building, designed incorporating non-invasive methods of working with the environment, local and recycled materials,

and the most cutting-edge technology in terms of renewable energies available at that time: photovoltaic solar panels on glass roofs, storage batteries, and climate control systems using geothermal energy, collection of rainwater, a composting center etc. and dining philosophy goes in the same direction. It is about making people happy with our cuisine, but also aims to cook a better future. Always committed to health, solidarity and sustainability.

CAN YOU TAKE US THROUGH THE DINING JOURNEY AT AZURMENDI? It is an experience that begins in a garden with a picnic in which we put different snacks depending on the season of the year; a visit to the kitchen with its corresponding snack made live by the kitchen while explaining how the house works. You keep walking (this is a peculiarity that we launched in 2012 whereby the customer does not arrive at the restaurant, sits down and leaves, rather the customer discovers the restaurant and the experience in an itinerant and dynamic way while discover different proposals that are sometimes offered in the form of snacks or appetizers, etc.) and you arrive at the greenhouse where some of the local traditions converted into contemporary snacks are explained. Finally, you reach the dining room where, in permanent connection with the exterior

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01, 03, 04, 07 Some of Chef Eneko’s inimitable creations 02 Chef Eneko Atxa

and nature, the different gastronomic proposals are offered in each season.

THIS YEAR, YOU FOUNDED NKO RESTAURANT IN BILBAO. WHAT CAN PATRONS EXPECT WHEN THEY VISIT? It is a project that combines Basque and Japanese gastronomy. In it you can find a ramen changing its broths for Basque sauces such as Biscayan or Zurrukutuna; a nigiri where the wasabi is replaced by a piparra paste, or a tempura similar to one of the fried foods that we do so much around here.

SUSTAINABILITY HAS BEEN A CONSTANT THEME ACROSS YOUR RESTAURANTS. WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL SO STRONGLY ABOUT THIS COMMITMENT? I have never understood sustainability as a trend, I understand it as a responsibility that we human beings have towards ourselves and our own environment. I am a person absolutely convinced that together we can reverse this situation, but first we have to be aware that no matter how little we do, it all adds up, and that no one is expendable in order to bring about change, so in this regard, I could consider myself a active person who fights every day from the smallest gestures to other more transcendent ones to achieve a better future for all.

“ I could consider myself a active person who fights every

day from the smallest gestures to other more transcendent ones to achieve a better future for all.”

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HOW ARE THE INGREDIENTS FOR AZURMENDI RESTAURANT SOURCED? I am privileged to live close to the sea, the mountain, the countryside, to have four different weather seasons, which provide me with a very wide product pantry. The producer is the interpreter of nature and who advises us based on the temporality of the products. There are certain products that are given by nature because they are collected during a certain season of the year, and we take advantage of that so that they are on our menu at that time

TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE JAKI[N] PROJECT. WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND IT AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE THROUGH IT? JakiN (“Jaki” in Basque language means food and “Jakin” means knowledge) is a design center, which seeks to be the front-runner using gastronomy as a social tool. In JakiN, gastronomy is linked to sustainable development, health, solidarity, anthropology, fine arts, social commitment and family-friendly working conditions, among a number of new angles we want to tackle in order to led chefs´ to new values and model.

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WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT AS A CHEF SO FAR? Probably the most important award we have had are the three Michelin stars, a dream of the great greats that we were able to achieve and that makes us feel very proud. But I would also like to point out that it is a wonderful reward to be lucky enough to receive customers from all over the world every day. That’s a real privilege that you might as well consider a prize. 06 05, 06 Patrons can enjoy delectable menu items surrounded by nature

ARE THERE FURTHER EXPANSION OR LAUNCHES WE SHOULD EXPECT IN THE NEAR FUTURE? ARE THERE ANY VENTURE TO EXPECT IN THE MIDDLE EAST? There are many surprises that we are already working on and designing but I can’t tell you more yet. I can only tell you that we will have more projects in other parts of the world soon. enekoatxa.com

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01, 03 From the Roma collection 02, 05 From the Bali collection 04 From the Portofino collection

June 2022

Unmistakably ITALIAN

The Missoni Home collection is a harmonious combination, almost a play of extraordinary design, color, and fabrics. There is artistic energy in the iconic patterns, always coherent, profound, and spontaneous. There is design in the versatile shapes that can be mixed and matched for infinite interpretations. The Missoni lifestyle imprint lies in the eclectic style, in the top-quality materials, and in the jigsaw patterns of multicolored hues. Its unrestricted design reconciles indoor & outdoor proposals, equally unmistakable and spectacular, providing comfort and performance quality. The charisma of each item promotes creative ideas, adding charm to large and small spaces. To each and every room of the home. To homes, penthouses, gardens, places to relax. At any latitude. Rosita Missoni, company founder and art director of the Home collection, says: “I see my home as a welcoming nest, an organized yet informal habitat where there should always be a surprise around the corner, something to arouse emotion and curiosity. Where every space is an oasis of colors and moods”. 05

missoni.com

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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Mesmerizing Performances 01

Actor and musician Tzachi Halevy talks to Durrah about the Netflix international hit, Fauda, his upcoming role as a producer, and his unique blend of music and film. 01, 02 Tzachi Halevy

FAUDA IS NOW AN INTERNATIONAL HIT. DID YOU EXPECT IT TO MAKE SUCH A CONNECTION WITH FANS WORLDWIDE? Honestly, no! When you’re filming something like a television series, you never know how the impact will be. We were very surprised to see how much impact it had in the beginning in 2015. And then, suddenly, you see that even abroad, there are so many people who became attached to it. I’ve always wondered why it had such a big impact on viewers. What is it about this series that it touched so many people around the world? That’s very interesting.

NOW THAT YOU HAVE DONE BOTH FILM AND TV, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THEM FROM AN ACTING PERSPECTIVE? When you work on a television series, you must take into account the number of episodes. They can be 6, 8 or even 24 episodes so the shooting is different. Normally, TV series take much longer and are more intense when compared to cinema. One of the latest films I did took sixteen days to film the whole feature. Normally, you take a bit more time. In cinema, every scene is a bit different. When you do television, you need to be very aware of where you’re at in the logline of the story. What we do is we normally film a series depending on places. So, sometimes, you come

somewhere for a week and you film scenes from say, episodes 1, 3, 8, and 10. It’s always changing. So, you need to be aware of where your character is. I’d say both are very challenging. I would compare it to the difference between an actor and a musician since I come from music. When you’re performing on stage, the feedback you get is very direct. When I sing, I can see the crowd. I can feel their reactions. When you’re filming, you never know. This is why I always appreciate when people approach me on the street and tell me that seeing me on TV or cinema had an impact.

YOU FIRST CAME TO BE KNOWN FOR YOUR WORK WITH MUSICAL GROUP MAYUMANA AND YOUR APPEARANCES IN THE VOICE. DO YOU IDENTIFY MORE AS A MUSICIAN, OR DO YOU FEEL ACTING IS YOUR MAIN PASSION NOW? I would say music was, is, and will always be my passion. It was my first passion. Since I was young, I dreamt of making music and being a musician, especially singing. And yes, I had the privilege of performing with Mayumina percussion group, but I also did my music for many years. At the age of 36, suddenly, someone approached me and told me they’re looking for people who speak Arabic to make a movie titled ‘Bethlehem’. I said, OK, I speak Arabic. So, I auditioned. They took me for the role. That

was in 2013. When the film came out, it won at the Oscars and the Venice Film Festival. The movie had screenings all around the world. I found acting to be very interesting. I never thought of doing it before. I remember that I took my guitar, and I told her “Darling, I have to leave you a bit. I have to put you aside and learn a new craft”. I’ve been mostly acting for the past 9 or 10 years. But, of course, I’m still very passionate about music. I’m always performing. And I have a new song about to be released on radio.

WHAT FIRST SPARKED YOUR LOVE OF ACTING? WAS IT BY CHANCE THAT YOU STARTED ON THIS PATH OR A LIFELONG DREAM? It was totally by chance. As I said, I never considered acting as a career. If you had told me 10 years ago that I will be an actor, I would look at you with surprise! I’m a musician. But since 2013, I’ve been really passionate about acting. I always feel like I’m learning and experiencing more and more about it. But now, I’ve reached the point where I try to blend the two worlds together. For example, in Fauda, I sing a song by Amr Diab in the first season titled Tamally Ma’ak. That also came about by chance. We were rehearsing a scene and I told the director that maybe I should sing a song here. He said OK, what song do you feel like singing? I said Tamally Ma’ak.

“I found acting to be very interesting. I never thought of doing it before.” So, I sang it and it ended up being included in the series. In the first season, there’s one and a half minute where I’m just singing that song. I also wrote the theme song for that first season, as well as the theme song for another movie. So, for me, it always works better when I’m blending the two worlds of music and cinema together.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF BEING A CELEBRITY? Honestly, I don’t think it’s challenging being a celebrity. I think it’s challenging being an artist. For me, it means always being focused on your work and always setting new goals for yourself to achieve. For example, in acting, when you finish a project, you never know what will come next. There were two years where I hardly had any work. I think that part is the most challenging. This is why I always push myself to deliver compelling performances and think of new projects. I’m about to produce my first film, which we will start shooting in September. As an actor, you wait for projects. But as a producer, you create the project. So, I’ve decided to become more involved. This is why I say this part is the most challenging. It’s understandable that being a celebrity makes you exposed in a way, so I try to keep my privacy. People ask me if it bothers me when people stop me and talk to me and take pictures. It doesn’t bother me at all because I respect it. I respect the fact that someone appreciates my work. They’re commending me for doing a job. It gives me motivation to continue doing this art form, even if it is a struggle at times.

ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS THAT YOU CAN SHARE WITH OUR READERS? As I mentioned earlier, this September, I will film the first movie that I’m producing. I will also be acting in it. There are also other projects in the development stage. I just finished filming a series where I work with an ensemble of Swedish actors. Hopefully, it will also reach platforms like Netflix and Amazon. 02

instagram.com/tsahihalevi

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The venue is ideally placed for sunset views across the World Islands, where the food and vistas are in perfect harmony.”

01 A truly remarkable island experience

Exquisite LUXURY Opened in December 2021, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort welcomes guests to a true private island experience just offshore. The seventh Anantara property in the UAE is the first luxury resort on the manmade World Islands, accessible by speedboat from its sister property, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

Located just four kilometers from the Dubai coastline, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort sits in the South American continent of the archipelago. Dubai International Airport is 40 minutes away by boat and taxi, while Al Maktoum International Airport can be reached in 50 minutes by the same method. Speedboats from Palm Jumeirah arrive in 15 minutes. 70 guest rooms, suites and villas unfold across 13 different categories, all marrying island luxury with contemporary comforts. Flatscreen TV’s and complimentary Wi-Fi are available in every room type, and the guest-only private beach is just a few steps away. A light neutral palette with wooden accents blends seamlessly with the natural elements outdoors. Ocean View Rooms on the first floor of the low-rise resort extend onto a balcony with excellent views of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Access to the sands is a welcome feature of Beach Pool Rooms and guests can also enjoy a dip in their private pool. Small families will enjoy the space of a Junior Ocean View Suite, with a balcony overlooking the

sea. While away sunny days in a Junior Beach Access Suite, or capture snaps of the magnificent skyline in the distance. The Junior Beach Pool Suite gives guests the choice between pool or beach, with plenty of privacy. See the water lap the shores from a Deluxe Ocean View Suite and drift into peaceful slumber on the huge beds. Find your island sanctuary in a Deluxe Beach Pool Suite, with a private pool and dining just meters from the sand. The thatched One Bedroom Beach Pool Villa lets families revel in nature, with a private pool for island dreaming. Anantara One Bedroom Garden Villas have a lush garden where a morning coffee will be accompanied by birdsong. Discover the perfect space to have tranquil holiday moments in the Anantara One Bedroom Garden Pool Villa. Breakfast in the morning watching the children play on the beach from the Anantara One Bedroom Beach Pool Villa. Stay in comfort in the sophisticated space of a Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villa with all the convenience required for your holiday. Ultimate tropical luxury is revealed in the Four Bedroom Beach Pool Villa. Two living rooms and

four bedrooms allow space for days of ease and leisure. With the pool and beach on your doorstep, living is easy. The unique setting of the World Islands lends itself to dramatic dining moments, and the culinary team are dedicated to impress. Helios, an informal Mediterranean restaurant, is open from breakfast every day for sophisticated meals by the sea. The airy vibe is enhanced by the panoramic of sea and the Dubai skyline, which is breathtaking in its configuration. From fluffy eggs and fresh baked breads at breakfast through homemade pizza and pastas from the kitchen to aromatic seafood offerings straight from the ocean, Helios provides memorable morsels and moments. A thoughtful menu full of Arabic and Indian flair takes the focus at contemporary restaurant, Qamar. Rich colors inspired by the region set the scene for mouthfuls of joy at dinner time. The venue is ideally placed for sunset views across the World Islands, where the food and vistas are in perfect harmony. Taking its inspiration from the continent of South America, where the resort is placed on the World Islands, Luna is an evening haunt with island vibes. Share tasty tapas with friends, or while away

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02, 03 Beautiful interiors 04 Surfboards are available for guests 05, 06 Relaxing ambience

a few hours simply marveling at the view. See the talented mixologists craft concoctions to enjoy as ambient music plays in the background. The lobby lounge at Anantara World Islands Resort is a casual haunt where friends can mingle. Order a steaming hot coffee or specialty tea, read the newspapers over a sandwich or baked treat. To treat your love to the ultimate in romance, forget the world in a temperature-controlled glass bubble where the horizon stretches out in blue. Indulge in an unforgettable gourmet journey carefully curated by your private chef. Days on the World Islands blur in a haze of sand and sea. Gather for a game of beach volleyball with the most amazing backdrop in the Middle East. The beach is open for guests only, making it a relaxed location for everyone. Kayaks are available to explore the islands of the archipelago, or glide along the shoreline on a paddleboard admiring Dubai from a distance. Adrenalin-lovers can zoom across the waves on water skis and families can jump on the banana boat for hilarious moments together. Arrange a fishing trip to catch some hammour, or simply spend a few hours angling. Yoga is held at the resort regularly for those wishing to practice their asanas on the sand. Book a training session at the well-equipped fitness center, or use the machines at your leisure. Kids are well catered for at the resort Kids’ Club with a range of fun and educational activities every day. anantara.com

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AMANDIRA BALI, INDONESIA Aman’s flagship yacht, Amandira is a custom-built, two-masted Phinisi sailing and diving vessel with five spacious cabins and a crew of 14. Inspired by the Phinisi sailing vessels of old, twin-masted Amandira was custom designed then handcrafted from local hardwoods by Konjo artisans. Travelling under sail as well as by motor, she combines the ancient romance of the spice trade with cutting-edge contemporary amenities. Amandira’s crew of 14 includes two private chefs, skilled waitstaff, an expert dive master and a highly trained spa therapist, each of whom is accomplished at providing intuitive, personalized service. Dining aboard Amandira is a gourmet experience from sunrise until the constellations wheel in the endless night sky. The yacht offers multiple dining settings in which to savor exquisite Indonesian, Asian-inspired and international dishes all prepared using the freshest ingredients. Indonesia is renowned for its pristine reefs and marine biodiversity, and Amandira promises unparalleled access to the underwater realm with state-of-the-art onboard diving equipment and ample opportunities to snorkel, kayak and paddleboard throughout the day. From massages in the privacy of your cabin to yoga on the beach, wellness with Aman translates beautifully onto the high seas. Embark on a sailing adventure aboard Amandira with stays at Amankila on Bali and Amanwana on Moyo Island in the Flores Sea. An adventure designed to showcase the finest

islands, dive sites and experiences in Indonesia, this six-night journey is ideal for those wishing to explore Bali, Moyo Island and the pristine waters that stretch between them. Bracketed by cosseting stays at Amankila and Amanwana, the three nights aboard Amandira will see you sailing through some of the most biodiverse marine habitats on earth. The Master Cabin is located in the stern, enjoying above-water views; king-size bed, living space with sofa, coffee table, writing desk, and a large ensuite bathroom with shower, separate toilet and twin vanities. Two Deluxe Cabins are set on the port and starboard sides offering king-size beds, living area with sofa, coffee table and desk, and a spacious ensuite bathroom with shower, separate toilet and twin vanities. Two cabins with single bunk beds and ensuite bathrooms are also set on the port and starboard sides. These are available on a complimentary basis when the first three cabins are booked, with a charge per person for food and drink. Dining aboard Amandira is a gourmet experience from sunrise until the constellations wheel in the endless night sky. Serving cuisine as artful and sophisticated as in any land-based Aman restaurant, the yacht offers multiple dining settings in which to savour exquisite Indonesian, Asian-inspired and international dishes all prepared using the freshest ingredients. aman.com

June 2022

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

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June 2022

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL MILAN, ITALY A 15th century convent turned sophisticated garden retreat, Four Seasons Hotel Milano is a haven in the center of Milan’s Fashion District. Fall asleep under frescoes in high-ceilinged rooms, dine on authentic Italian dishes on the airy veranda and recover from a day of shopping and sightseeing with a massage in the sleek, modern Spa. Renowned for its global fashion houses and storied architecture, Milan is brimming with suggestive surroundings, world-class museums, frescoed churches and contemporary art galleries. Most of the city’s renowned landmarks are right at the doorstep while unique destinations await just a few miles away. Immerse yourself into these hidden gems. For a cruise through the countryside, the hotel provides a vintage 1960s convertible. The Concierge will create a bespoke itinerary that balances sightseeing, shopping and gourmet dining in your favored proportions. Pause to admire the beauty of the lush Tuscan countryside and French Riviera, or arrive in style at some of Milan’s most fashionable shops, all while behind the wheel of a vintage 1960s European convertible. During this exclusive excursion through southern France and Italy, experience Europe’s

signature slower-paced lifestyle during a leisurely customized road trip in a classic car. Choose a 1960 Giulietta Spider, a 1958 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Cabrio or a 1956 Porsche 356A Speedster as your chariot. Enveloped in its old-style glamour, you’ll cruise between Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Four Seasons Hotel Milano and Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel. You may choose to visit any two hotels or all three, and the length of each stay is up to you. First, choose where to begin your journey: Florence, Milan or Cap Ferrat. Here, your bespoke trip itinerary will be thoughtfully created by a dedicated Concierge, who can recommend the best stops along the way according to your personal interests – architecture detours in Florence, stylish sojourns in Milan or Michelin-starred cuisine lunch breaks in the French Riviera. Then, take to the road toward the next Hotel of your choosing, stopping at shops, restaurants and landmarks whenever the mood strikes you. Visit Modena to sample some of Italy’s finest balsamic vinegar, or taste the much-admired ham of Parma. Stroll the markets in Monaco on your way to Cap Ferrat, or marvel at Florence’s famous Duomo. Throughout your journey, you’ll travel with

the comfort and peace of mind of Four Seasons service. A personal driver will follow behind you throughout your trip in a separate modern-day vehicle – unless you signal him to take the lead and navigate the route. Always accessible on a two-way radio, your driver is on call for roadside assistance, recommendations and valet parking at each Hotel and stop along the way. He’ll also wash the car and fill it up whenever necessary. And since no road trip would be complete without snacks, indulge in a picnic crafted for you by a Four Seasons chef for each leg of the trip. Drink in all that Italy and the French Riviera have to offer during this thoughtful experience that calls you to live in the moment. The journey can be organized from any of the three properties: Four Seasons Hotel Milano, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze or Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel. Indulge in Milan’s vibrant shopping scene, providing a combination of young emerging brands, local fashion designers, top Italian tailors and leading international couture houses. Whether you are into fashion, art, or design, you will love the Hotel’s location, giving you doorstep access to the city’s best shopping spots. fourseasons.com

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GRAN HOTEL DOMINE BILBAO, SPAIN The Gran Hotel Domine is located in the city’s most desired location, directly opposite Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. With 145 air-conditioned and soundproofed rooms and suites, some with views of the Guggenheim, guests can enjoy a relaxing stay in the heart of Bilbao. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs, bathrobe and slippers, free Wi-Fi, USB connection and a 40” flat-screen TV with international satellite channels and HDMI Breakfast is served on the roof terrace with spectacular views over the museum and the River Nervion. Guests can also sample different dining options at either the gastronomic Beltz restaurant, the more informal Le Café or at the stylish Sixty-One Lobby Bar. The Hotel Domine has a Wellness Centre with fitness area, sauna and Turkish bath, while staff at the hotel’s 24-hour reception can provide information about what to see and do in Bilbao and the Basque Country. Apart from the Guggenheim, The Museum of Fine Arts and the Maritime Museum are both within 500 meters of the hotel. The Ensanche, the city’s shopping area, is just a few minutes away, and offers a fabulous selection of shops and boutiques, while the old town has a wonderful collection of tapas (pintxos) bars and restaurants. There is an outstanding list of on-site amenities and services for guests of Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao to enjoy; Bauhaus-style Café Metropol, Fossil Cypress in the atrium, relaxing fire-lit library, coffee shop, bar/lounge, 24-hour room service, library, and even a state-of-the-art spa offering revitalizing body scrubs and treatments. Guests will also appreciate the dedication to awe-inspiring local art and design

concepts from the 20th century, represented in its eclectic collection of beautifully and artfully fashioned furniture. Business accommodations abound at this exclusive five-star hotel, ranging from a comprehensive, up-to-the-minute business center, multiple well-appointed, spacious events facilities, and excellent catering options. Lé Café – This bistro specialises in Basque cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. A children’s menu is available. Reservations are required. Airport transportation, as well as limo service, is available to and from this hotel for busy business travelers or those simply on a family trip to see the city. Free valet parking is available as is access to secure parking on site. With a 24-hour front desk manned by friendly multilingual staff, Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao offers an easy, fun, luxurious and convenient way to travel. Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the hotel’s full-service spa. Services include facials, body scrubs, body treatments and manicures and pedicures. The spa is equipped with Turkish bath/ hammam. The spa is open daily. hoteldominebilbao.com

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HOTELS

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SLS DUBAI, UAE Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, expanded the international SLS Hotels & Residences brand to the Middle East with the opening of SLS Dubai. Developed in partnership with World of Wonders Real Estate – the new property is one of Dubai’s tallest buildings and is now officially welcoming guests and residents. The highly anticipated opening is a testament to the SLS brand’s longstanding reputation and experience in creating and delivering extraordinary, unforgettable and timeless experiences. This news comes on the heels of Accor’s latest phase of expansion following its acquisition of sbe’s hotel brands and its planned joint venture with Ennismore, which will see the creation of one of the world’s largest and fastest growing lifestyle operators. Using the SLS Hotels & Residences’ global perspective gained from its expanding network of hospitality properties, SLS Dubai presents a host of truly enriching and elevated experiences via its portfolio of diversely distinct luxury brands. From Fi’lia, the entirely female-run restaurant that celebrates food & identity, to Carna by the award-winning Italian butcher Dario Cecchini’s contemporary steakhouse, SLS Dubai’s culinary venues are a testament to the hospitality hallmarks of the SLS brand.

Located in the Downtown district, SLS Dubai offers incomparable 360-degree views over the city, with unobstructed views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, along with a clear overhead of the calming Dubai Creek. The impressive 75-storey tower makes SLS Dubai one of the tallest hotels and residences in the region. Developed in collaboration with international architecture firm Aedas, SLS Dubai features 254 expertly designed hotel rooms by acclaimed designer Paul Bishop, 371 residential units, 321 hotel apartments and in true SLS fashion, contemporary art, sleek accents & exceptional fittings that are unique characteristics of the brand’s DNA. Bishop, along with his team at Bishop Design, are responsible for the design of the hotel in its entirety, including all of the F&B venues, public spaces as well as the rooms. Dakota Development, a subsidiary of sbe, provided technical service support for the entire development process including partnering with Bishop Design on SLS’s public spaces and food and beverage venues. Hotel guests will enter through the ground atrium, take an express elevator to the opulent Sky Lobby on the 71st floor, giving them panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a grand marble bar highlight S Bar, a lounge area where the

menu is playfully divided between healthy, angelic options and sinful, decadent ones. Take your pick. On the 75th floor, sits Privilege, a lounge and nightlife venue, featuring the region’s highest two infinity pools offering coveted and unobstructed views of Dubai. Privilege is also home to the iconic SLS brand duck, placing it at the top of Dubai’s most Instagram-worthy destinations. A modern yet sophisticated coffee brand, called EllaMia, greets guests on the ground floor. Promising a sensory and sensual experience, 12 Chairs is a caviar bar that showcases the very best of caviar exclusively reserved for only a few select guests. SLS Dubai also includes sbe’s signature Ciel Spa, the epitome of luxury with treatment rooms, plunge pools, a hair and nail salon, a fully equipped gym and two outdoor terraces. Ultimately, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences is a locale that celebrates what it means to be part of a global community - one where likeminded individuals seek connection, inspiration, wellness, art and lively conversations - essentially, the pulse of the SLS experience. Residents of Dubai and travelers of the world, it’s time to let the magic begin. sbe.com

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W MADRID, SPAIN A heady mix of powerful architecture, refined culture, impressive art, a rich culinary history and an insatiable love of the good life has made Madrid one of the most captivating and alluring cities in the world. The arrival of the EDITION brand further boosts the Spanish capital’s attraction with a refined offering that encapsulates the city’s beguiling individuality and essence. Following the launch of The Barcelona EDITION in 2018, The Madrid EDITION, opening in preview phase in March 2022, is the city’s first luxury lifestyle urban resort. It embraces Schrager’s vision and ethos for an understated elegance while showcasing the innovative and elevated experience, ethos and exceptional luxury service that the EDITION brand is known for with two restaurants, each helmed by a world-class, award-winning chef, three unique bar concepts, exciting nightlife and entertainment, a magnificent outdoor pool located on the rooftop with jaw dropping views of Madrid’s cityscape, a wellness and spa facility, and a series of spectacular meeting and event spaces drenched in natural light. There are also 200 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, including multiple connecting units - for groups of friends and families - as well as an exclusive selection of rooms with private terraces. This innovation and creativity, long associated with Ian Schrager, together with Marriott International’s reputation and operational expertise results in a distinct, original and unique offering that captures the essence of Madrid’s spirit, traditions and energy. Quite literally located in the vibrant heart of the Spanish capital, a few steps from Kilometer Zero, which marks the geographical center of the country, The Madrid EDITION is a new destination at the epicenter of one of the world’s hottest cities central to defining the global zeitgeist. More precisely, it is accessed via a stunning plaza reminiscent of Europe’s great plazas, squares and piazzas in the lively neighborhood of Sol, home to convivial tapas bars, sidewalk cafés, and a stone’s throw from the Royal Theatre, Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace. It is also bordered along its northern edge by Gran Vía, the Broadway of Madrid, which is lined by a broad sweep of glorious architecture. The hotel’s design - under the ever-watchful eye of Ian Schrager Company - is an unlikely combination of the refined elegance, purity and simplicity of British architect John Pawson and the artistry, spirit and originality of Paris-based François Champsaur. These two completely different and opposite approaches and attitudes juxtapose against each other yet successfully co-exist side by side making The Madrid EDITION a complete surprise and a totally unexpected result that is entirely unique. It is

something completely new that has never been seen before. It is where the total result is more than the sum of its individual parts. It is where 1+1=10. The building itself, which sits on Plaza de la Descalzas with evocative views of a 16th-century royal monastery, is clean-lined and modern, embellished only by a decorative 18th-century baroque portal - designed by Spanish architect Pedro de Ribera - which was salvaged from an adjacent building. From here, you can access the hotel’s signature restaurant, while its main entrance, around the corner, features an explosion of greenery and a seductive copper canopy that leads to a dark fired oak-lined space anchored by a spectacular sculptural spiral staircase that ribbons fluidly to the lobby on the upper ground floor above. As with all EDITION hotels, the lobby is the beating heart of the hotel while the great personalized service is its soul. Here, under an undulating ceiling, the Lobby Bar is a dynamic and sociable space offering a new kind of gathering place for the city’s most discerning residents and visitors, dressed in a mix of custom-made bespoke furnishings. editionhotels.com

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HOTELS

HYDE HOTEL DUBAI, UAE Hyde Hotel Dubai provides a sanctuary, a hideaway destination for those in-the-know, presenting a new kind of bespoke hospitality. Intuitively dialed into their guests’ interests, needs and aspirations, Hyde celebrates the true spirit of discovery and the adventure of human connection. Authentically personal and captivating iconic moments, Hyde is much more than a brand – it is a state of mind. With interiors developed and conceptualized by Ciarmoli Queda, all of Hyde Hotel Dubai’s 276 spacious rooms and suites have access to private balconies and are equipped with in-room luxurious amenities and guest services. With interiors developed and conceptualized by Ciarmoli Queda, all of Hyde Hotel Dubai’s 276 spacious rooms and suites have access to private balconies and are equipped with in-room luxurious amenities and guest services including highdefinition television, Malin+Goetz for Ciel Spa bath amenities, in-room private minibar curated with Hyde signature items, individually controlled air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour in-room dining, and more. Hyde Hotel Dubai features three incredible culinary experiences including the Mediterranean concept, Cleo, contemporary Japanese from Katsuya, hand-crafted burgers from Hudson Tavern. Also on the property will be The Perq, a coffee concept, a lobby lounge, and Hyde pool & lounge. Hyde Hotel Dubai will bring four of the brands most craveable culinary experiences to Dubai. The hotel will home Cleo and its dynamic Levantine menu, inviting guests for familiar flavors

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enhanced by a worldly charm and Katsuya, with its contemporary take on traditional Japanese cuisine. Head to the Hudson Tavern for a laid-back and unforgettable experience, at this New York speakeasy-meets-Dubai. The Perq is the home of amazing coffee from local specialty coffee roaster, Nightjar, and delicious café bites. Hyde Hotel Dubai caters to every culinary taste under one roof. Savor delicious dining from the comfort of your accommodations. Choose from breakfast, all day, dessert, and children’s menus. From lighter fare to full breakfast, enjoy hot or cold culinary delights, served with fresh baked goods and tea or coffee. Whether you crave the sweet or the savory, let us start your day the correct way. Designed by Tristan Plessis Studio as an enclave of exclusivity, the swimming pool at Hyde Hotel Dubai welcomes guests to unwind and relax. Enjoy refreshing beverages, poolside, while experiencing the very best in leisure facilities and services. Hyde Hotel Dubai offers an ideal venue to host corporate events and conferences as well as social gatherings of various capacity. A total of 5 meeting rooms and a 190 square-meter ballroom are available for rent. Each year, the sbe hotels continues to receive awards and honors for their outstanding service, imaginative properties, sumptuous cuisine, and forward-thinking design. They have been recognized by such prestigious organizations as Fodor’s, AAA, Zagat Guide and more. sbe.com

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

FOUR SEASONS MILAN, ITALY Enjoy a Spa escape for two in this elegant, private suite, with packages that include aromatherapy, massage and use of the whirlpool and steam bath. Immerse yourself in a ritual of pure relaxation surrounded by the refreshing scents of the Mediterranean Sea. Indulge in one of their exclusive experiences for complete relaxation and rejuvenation. Relax and recover with a wide variety of healing massages. Bring a natural glow to your skin with their signature body scrubs and masks. Rejuvenate your skin with advanced facial treatments by Swiss Perfection, Sodashi and Olivier Claire skincare lines. Prepare for a night on the town with a manicure, a pedicure or a waxing. Freshen your look with a cut, color, or treatment at the full-service salon. fourseasons.com

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“Over a decade later, due to its success, Ciel Spa

June 2022

has expanded across the globe and is the signature spa for all sbe hotels and resorts.”

SLS DUBAI CIEL SPA Ciel Spa, a leading spa brand within the Accor group, is an intimate wellness haven within SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, offering world-class services and customized treatments carried out by a team of expert aestheticians and therapists. Creating and conceptualizing Ciel Spa as a celestial sanctum where guests can experience true rejuvenation and inner vitality, first came into fruition at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, back in 2008. Over a decade later, due to its success, Ciel Spa has expanded across the globe and is the signature spa for all sbe hotels and resorts. From relaxing massages, nourishing body wraps, complexion-enhancing facials to a variety of treatment rooms and amenities, Ciel Spa will surely provide guests with the ultimate luxurious pampering experience. sbe.com

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AWAY SPA W DUBAI THE PALM DUBAI, UAE Serving up a glow better than any Instagram filter, this June guests can experience a specially designed de-stress massage, in celebration of Global Wellness Day on June 11th. Available throughout the month of June, the outwardly 60-minute treatment works to revive tired muscles and reduces brain fog with soothing head-clearing oils, and moderate pressure and tension-releasing techniques, ensuring guests are left feeling calm, relaxed, and revitalized. There has never been a better time to focus on your health and wellness, so get ready to say yes to wellness at AWAY Spa, W Dubai – The Palm. hotelsworldwide.com

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“You can choose to share this blissful

moment with anyone you would like in our couple’s treatment room.”

CINQ MONDES DUBAI, UAE Open day, from 10am to 9pm, Cinq Mondes Dubai offers deep regeneration of the mind and body through its every holistic treatments and products, carried out by expert specialists and therapists. Cinq Mondes Dubai houses five treatment rooms along with dedicated salons for male and female guests as well as a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, that also shares incredible views of the Dubai canal. Fascinated by traditional medicine and cosmetics, Nathalie and Jean-Louis Poiroux journeyed around the world in search of the best Beauty Rituals of the World. Their discoveries provided the founding principles for the creation of Cinq Mondes, which has established itself as

the French pioneer and specialist of treatments, massages, and professional spa cosmetic products. Through its treatments and products, Cinq Mondes offers deep regeneration of body and mind to recreate a state of perfect balance even inside our skin cells for naturally happy skin. Cinq Mondes offers massages stemming from Rituals from around the world, thus providing nonmedical wellness and relaxation treatments. All our treatments are co-ed. You can choose to share this blissful moment with anyone you would like in our couple’s treatment room. sbe.com

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REFINED TASTE

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

ARZAK GIPUZKOA, SPAIN The origin of the Arzak Restaurant dates back to 1897, when Juan Mari Arzak’s grandparents built the house that is now home to his restaurant. In the early days, it used to be a wine shop and tavern. Then, Juan Mari Arzak’s parents turned it into a fine eatery whose cook was Paquita Arratibel. Her stews and traditional recipes from the Basque Country, especially Donostia, were highly pleasing. In 1966, Juan Mari Arzak took over the family business along with his mother. She showed him how to cook Basque food. Juan Mari was eager to learn all she could teach him. Thanks to his inquisitive and innovative spirit, he concocted his own recipes: traditional Basque dishes with a gourmet twist. Soon enough, his extraordinary culinary skills earned him the National Gastronomy Award when he was 32, and the Arzak Restaurant got its first Michelin star. From the mid-70s on, Juan Mari won one award after the other, which placed the Arzak Restaurant among the best establishments across

Spain and around the globe. In 1976, Juan Mari Arzak and a group of chefs revolutionized the art of cooking when they created a new culinary concept, a movement known as New Basque Cuisine. In 1977, he was awarded his second Michelin star and in 1989 the third one. He was the second to get three Michelin stars in Spain, and he still holds them. In the 90s, Elena Arzak, one of Juan Mari’s daughters, joined the family-run restaurant. Elena attended hotel and restaurant management schools in Switzerland, broadening her culinary knowledge in great European restaurants such as La Maison Troisgros, Pierre Gagnaire, Carré des Feuillants and Le Vivarois in France, Louis XV in Monte Carlo, Le Gavroche in London, Antica Osteria del Ponte in Italy, and El Bulli in Spain. Currently, Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena share the kitchen, as well as the culinary knowledge, passion and enthusiasm they bring to cooking and to managing their restaurant. arzak.es

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DISFRUTAR BARCELONA, SPAIN Open since December 2014, the restaurant Disfrutar (in English “Enjoy”) arose after years of intense work at elBulli, where Mateu Casañas, Oriol Castro and Eduard Xatruch met and trained professionally, and after reaffirming the work done at Compartir opened in April 2012 in Cadaqués. Located in the Eixample, just in front of the Ninot Market, the premises are also surprising due to their design. Respect for the history and legacy of the Mediterranean are the inspiration and ceramic is the common theme marking the interior. The entrance area is inspired by Barcelona, by the wrought iron of the Ninot Market and the colors of Mironian ceramics. The central corridor, made from ceramic with the colors and textures of clay, goes through the kitchen which is completely visible to clients and leads to the main dining room. This is inspired by small fishing villages and stands out as a bright, white space, that transports one outside the city and connects with the terrace; a nod to Compartir. In short, surprisingly Mediterranean premises, with an intimate and welcoming manner, and creative cuisine designed to “Disfrutar”. At the end of 2015, when the restaurant celebrated its first anniversary, Disfrutar received its first Michelin Star in the Michelin Guide and was awarded with Two Suns in the Repsol Guide. In addition, the Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition named Disfrutar “Restaurant of the Year”. In 2020, Disfrutar has risen one position in the ranking of The Best Chef Awards, reaching number 4 and being the best Spanish restaurant on the list. And, according to the Macarfi Guide, the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, Disfrutar has been the Best Restaurant in Barcelona. © Francesc Guillamet

disfrutarbarcelona.com

DINING

JERONIMO MADRID, SPAIN Located just off the plaza and with its own entrance via the embellished baroque portal, Jerónimo offers global cuisine heavily influenced by Mexico’s ancient culinary roots and is spearheaded by Enrique Olvera, Santiago Pérez and their exceptional team, the talent behind a collection of restaurants including Mexico City’s Pujol, Cosme in New York and Damian in Los Angeles. The namesake of Spanish painter and engraver Jerónimo Antonio Gil, founder, and Director of the Academia de San Carlos in Mexico City echoes the strong cultural links between Spain and Mexico that this concept encapsulates. The restaurant itself is a multilayered space with an explosion of colors featuring four distinct areas that seamlessly blend in with each other to create a totally holistic experience, with a doubleheight elegant dining room distinguished by carved dark oak wall panels, which take their cues from the ornate detailing of the baroque portal outside, and two striking alabaster and plaster pendant lights by designer Emmanuel Level Stenne, reminiscent of the heavens and otherworldly celestial planets. This leads down to the lounge area which is anchored by a long green marble bar and simple white oak floors featuring original art and elements bathed in saturated luminescent Yves Klein inspired blues. This then flows into a more casual light-filled space, dressed with limestone floors, black and white marble tables and a background of Luis Barragán inspired hot pink, bold magenta and bright orange colors with lots of greenery. Enrique Olvera, passionate about authenticity and quality products, transmits his roots through an honest and constantly evolving cuisine. Olvera is the author of several internationally published gastronomic books. In addition, his passion for preserving Mexico’s natural heritage, as well as awareness and respect for its biodiversity, is visible in both his work as a chef and in his writings on sustainability, food and social responsibility. jeronimomadrid.com

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VIVALDI DUBAI, UAE An authentic Italian restaurant nestled in the iconic Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers popular for its creek and skyline views along with delicious set menus and evening brunches making it an ideal place for Business lunch, dinner, or an evening brunch. Savor a delicious array of alluring Italian and Mediterranean-infused flavors, from spectacular savory options to sensational sweet treats, with live cooking stations and chefs who mingle among the guests, to provide an unforgettable brunch experience with a Creekside twist. Sheraton Dubai Creek is located directly on the banks of the Dubai Creek and a short walk

from the city’s main commercial and shopping districts. The hotel also is conveniently located to the City Center and Union Square stations of Dubai Metro. With magnificent views overlooking the Dubai Creek, the hotel is superbly located near the main commercial and shopping districts, the Gold Souk and Spice Souks. Next to water taxis which allow for a short taxi ride to Dubai Museum, Heritage, Village, Old Dubai Souk, and the Metro Union Square station which connects to all major city attractions. Close to Dubai International Airport. vivaldidubai.com

June 2022

DINING

PRIMAVERA SEEF, BAHRAIN Primavera’s new Osteria Contemporanea concept promises a refined reinterpretation of Italian traditions with a refreshing gastronomic lineup that includes freshly made pasta and specialty dishes made from 100% authentic ingredients. To complete the convivial atmosphere, Primavera entices diners with an inspiring décor which evokes an evergreen garden of freshness and simplicity, complemented by a terrace overlooking the beautiful resort. Led by benevolent and passionate Italian Chef, Heros de Agostinis, Primavera’s high standards are elevated to the next level. Heros de Agostinis, he will take the restaurant’s high standards to the next level. An impassioned leader and an ingenious chef with more than 20 years of experience in multi Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels around the world, Heros upraises the culinary experience at Primavera with a selection of refined dishes with authentic ingredients imported from Italy. Chef Heros de Agostinis’ creative menu for Primavera is based on a reinterpretation of the Italian traditions.All dishes are perfectly cooked and temptingly yielding with the best flavors from high quality ingredients, from the freshly made pasta to the exquisite seafood plates. To end the beautiful meal, try the Tiramisu on trolley with a rich coffee taste and perfectly creamy texture. Truly, Primavera showcases the pleasures of Italian cuisine without ever leaving the island. ritzcarlton.com/bahrain

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ZELO MILAN, ITALY Flooded with light and eclectically stylish contemporary furniture, Zelo offers both light meals during the day and gourmet dishes at night, showcasing Executive Chef Fabrizio Borraccino’s culinary principles: thoughtful Italian cuisine with meticulously sourced ingredients. Chef Fabrizio Borraccino enlivens the signature Italian dining experience with the tradition and innovations of his native cuisine. Originally from the Abruzzo region, he studied culinary arts in Pescara. The genius behind the Hotel’s one-of-a-kind Chocolate Room, Italian-born Daniele Bonzi also puts his skills to good use in the creation of delicate pastries and desserts that make good use of Italian ingredients and recipes. House-made sorbets, freshfruit tartlets and Four Seasons Hotel Milano–style tiramisu are all products of Daniele’s deft hands and attention to detail. A 15th-century convent turned sophisticated garden retreat, Four Seasons Hotel Milano is a haven in the center of Milan’s Fashion District. Fall asleep under frescoes in high-ceilinged rooms, dine on authentic Italian dishes on the airy veranda and recover from a day of shopping and sightseeing with a massage in the sleek, modern Spa. fourseasons.com

DINING

CAVIAR KASPIA DUBAI, UAE Since 1927, Caviar Kaspia remained the symbol of a prestigious “art de vivre” and a Parisian institution that stands strong the test of time. Located in the famous Place de la Madeleine in Paris, with its Tsar-era Russian luxe and chic French décor, it has for almost a century hosted the most eclectic and interesting mix of guests. From the who’s who in show business, fashion, art and local literary; the Kaspia crowd creates a unique ambiance of chic and decadent nights where table hopping is the norm, and you get the feeling that time does not pass but is simply enjoyed. Caviar Kaspia Dubai is embodying dynamism and excellence combining old world elegance with a contemporary touch, with a warm welcome for each and every guest. Bolstered by an unmistakably vibrant ambience and a famed reputation, the restaurant is an energetic and treasured hotspot for the DIFC crowd and beyond. Offering the finest caviar, blinis, champagne and most exclusive vodka selection in Dubai, Caviar Kaspia provides a cosmopolitan experience to guests. The cuisine is French with a Russian twist and we embody a luxurious, refined and fun experience. Caviar Kaspia Dubai offers finest caviar and smoked fish, alongside other luxury seafood and stays faithful to the philosophy - “Tradition of excellence in the selection of its products and in the service to its customers”. Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant interior and its terraces are inviting and intimate, with classic elements blending with modern aesthetics. Kaspia has captured the romance and glamour of Caviar while combining it with the highest level of demand and quality in order to offer moments of exception.

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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UNRIVALED Quality The world’s most exclusive detailing and paint protection film specialist, Topaz Detailing handles the largest volume of supercars anywhere in the world. Founders Nabil and Mazin Naamo reveal the unique care and attention that established their reputation as leaders in the field. 01

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE TOPAZ DETAILING BAHRAIN STUDIO IN TUBLI? Topaz Detailing Bahrain offers a total car care solution package that incorporates everything from enhancement and protection plus general maintenance to home materials for household car care programs. Topaz Detailing Bahrain features state of the art facilities with some of the most skilled detailers and paint protection film installers in the region, trained both on site in Bahrain and at the Topaz UK facility in London by the generally perceived best Paint Protection specialists in the world.

WHAT MAKES TOPAZ DETAILING SPECIAL? There are low barriers when it comes to entering the Paint Protection Film (PPF) application industry. Lots of Detailing, window tinting, and vinyl wrapping companies are having a go at it. These other companies don’t have our history and experience. They will take pre-existing, commercially available patterns and either apply them as they come or try to adjust them. They don’t fit as well as ours do. They will overstretch the material and then need to cut it on the car. We don’t do this at all. We are one of the only companies in the UK that have our own design team, creating customized templates and patterns on a per-client and per-car basis. Typically, organizations take existing pattern templates

and modify them. This approach would be much cheaper, but we tried it and the quality was not good enough for us or for what our clients expect. We design our patterns from the ground up to ensure it fits around apertures and edges. These small details are one of the things that make us unique in the market and allow us to produce higher quality service to the customer. An analogy to our approach is the difference between an offthe-shelf suit that is adjusted to fit you correctly, or a bespoke, tailor-made Saville Row suit which will always fit perfectly.

HOW EXPERIENCED ARE YOUR TEAM MEMBERS? Our installers have been with us for 3 to 5 years and more. Some from the very beginning, so 10 years. Their training and quality are second to none. We invest heavily in our staff to make them the best. It takes our guys 1 to 2 years to reach our standard of fitting. The hardest bit of our industry is maintaining the quality of the installers, and ours are experienced, committed, and the best in the world. It takes years of practice to be the best. Just passing your driving test won’t make you Lewis Hamilton!

IN WHAT OTHER AREAS DOES TOPAZ DETAILING EXCEL? When it comes to the quality of PPF

installations, we pay attention to every detail, no matter how small. We now have our own bespoke film manufactured at source that is unique to us! No other PPF installation firm has access to it. It matches the most protective of the competitor films on the market but is optically clearer than any other product out there.

WHAT KIND OF WARRANTY CAN TOPAZ CLIENTS EXPECT? We, as a business, standby our product and our 5-year warranty. Things can sometimes go wrong and require rectification, but it’s how you deal with it that counts. Most other companies’ warranties will require you to return to them to fix any issues. With us, whenever something went wrong, we have flown people all over the world to address their issues. That’s how much we stand by our warranty and our quality standards and to ensure our customers are happy.

HOW MANY CARS DO YOU PROCESS PER YEAR? We are the experts in our field. We processed over 3,000 cars as a business last year. No other business in the world can claim to have more experience than us, we are the most experienced. topazdetailing.com

“We design our patterns from the

ground up to ensure it fits around apertures and edges.”

03 01 Topaz Detailing co-founder, Nabil Naamo 02, 03, 04 ome of Topaz’s exceptional work

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Exquisite LUXURY

The HONGQI H9 is a luxury sedan to rival the best contenders, available in two variants at HONGQI Bahrain – Zayani Motors, the exclusive distributor of HONGQI luxury cars in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Executive and Comfort models share numerous standard features with some key differences for the discerning client, tailored to meet specific needs. The exterior of the H9 is striking, reflecting the brand’s iconic design that integrates modern technique with traditionally cultural elements. The front is defined by a protruding Lit red trim and the classic waterfall grill, while graceful character is accentuated by the inclined to meet with the trunklid rear window. Comfort is emphasized in a cabin outfitted in Nappa leather upholstery, adorned with wood grain and chrome-plated materials, creating an impressive atmosphere. The H9 Interior features generous leg and head room, with heated and ventilated seats (front and rear in the Executive model), in addition to a panoramic sunroof. Its features include headup display, 12.3-inch infotainment system, wireless phone charging, active noise control, adjustable ambient lighting, and a 14-speaker Bose Sound System. The interior also includes a 4-zone automatic climate control with Rear AC vents. The Executive model comes with independent rear seats in addition

to display screen for rear passengers. On top of providing a smooth, responsive driving experience that makes steering the wheel a pleasure, the H9 boasts impressive safety and assistive tech levels. Fatigue monitoring, blind spot detection, advanced cruise control, lane departure warning, panoramic view auto parking and plenty more are some of the advanced specifications that ensure a confident, secure drive enjoyed by all passengers. Born in 1958, HONGQI is a Chinese luxury car marque owned by the automaker FAW Car Company and is a subsidiary of FAW Group. The premium brand raises the bar high in the global market of luxury cars, as it represents the pride of the Chinese deluxe automotive industry, and it is known to be the choice of state leaders and prominent foreign guests. Don’t miss out on this opportunity and get in touch with HONGQI Bahrain – Zayani Motors today. Call 17703703 or visit www.zmotors.com for more information. Follow @HONGQI.bh on Instagram and Facebook, or @HONGQI_Bh on Twitter, for the latest news and updates. Terms and Conditions apply. hongqi-auto.com

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01 The new H9 02, 04 Iconic design language 03 Interior is adorned with wood grain, leather, and chromeplated materials

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01 The Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost 02, 03 Minimalist and pure design

June 2022

Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost We go to the streets of Dubai to give the Durrah treatments to the new Black Badge Ghost, the latest addition to the highly successful alter ego of Rolls-Royce. Rolls-Royce debuted Black Badge with Wraith and Ghost in 2016, followed by Dawn in 2017 then Cullinan in 2019. In 2021, a new, Post Opulent expression of Black Badge joined the family. The purest and most technologically advanced Black Badge motor car yet, Black Badge Ghost. Conceived in response to a group of clients who requested a Rolls-Royce that was agile, discreet, highly connected, and free of any superfluous design, the Ghost is not just the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet, but also the most aesthetically pure. It has become one of the fastest-selling products in the marque’s history, representing more than 3,500 commissions worldwide. When it comes to design, there are few manufacturers out there that can compare to the prestige of the Black Badge Ghost. This motor car started a new design conversation in its relentless pursuit of minimalism and purity. Named ‘Post Opulence’ by Rolls-Royce designers, this aesthetic movement is characterized by reduction and

substance. In service to this, exceptional materials are selected and celebrated while overt design is limited, intelligent and unobtrusive. Clients are free to select any of the marque’s 44,000 ‘ready-to-wear’ colors or create their own entirely unique Bespoke hue. However, the overwhelming majority of women and men who requested this darker expression of Ghost have selected the signature Black. To create what is the motor car industry’s darkest black, 100lbs (45kg) of paint is atomized and applied to an electrostatically charged body in white before being oven dried. The motor car then receives two layers of clear coat before being hand-polished by a team of four craftsman to produce the marque’s signature highgloss piano finish. The Black Badge Ghost looked breathtaking as it rolled majestically along the Shaikh Zayed Highway. The exterior treatment resolves with a Bespoke 21-inch composite wheelset. Designed in the Black Badge house style and reserved for Black Badge Ghost, the barrel of each wheel is made up of 22 layers of carbon fiber laid on three axes, then folded back on themselves at the outer edges of the rim, forming a total of 44 layers of carbon fiber

for greater strength. A 3D-forged aluminum hub is bonded to the rim using aerospace-grade titanium fasteners and finished with the marque’s hallmark Floating Hubcap, ensuring the Double R monogram remains upright at all times. To celebrate the material substance and remarkable surface effect, a lightly tinted lacquer is applied to protect the finish but still allow clients to observe the technical complexity of the wheels unique carbon fiber construction. The Black Badge is not just an aesthetic, it is an experience. The clients who requested this motor car demanded that the Bespoke treatment of Black Badge Ghost extend from the design atelier into the marque’s engineering department. In doing so, the Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople collaborated to create a vivid driving personality that matched Black Badge Ghost’s visual intent without compromising the marque’s effortless ride proclivities and exhaustive acoustic tuning. This was a thoroughly delightful time for us at Durrah. A truly unforgettable luxury automotive experience. rolls-roycemotorcars.com

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June 2022

Audi A8 and S8 Audi Middle East presented its latest flagship luxury models, the Audi A8 and S8 in Dubai exclusively ahead of their official market introductions. The company with the four rings has intensively redesigned the new flagship sedans to become the benchmark for luxury in its current fleet. The new high-end headlights and taillights inspire with innovative functions and form the apex of the A8 and S8’s established technology portfolio, creating a contemporary and user-oriented experience – whether for passengers or drivers. Carsten Bender, Managing Director of Audi Middle East, commented “With the launch of the Audi A8 and S8, Audi is creating a benchmark that combines both the worlds of uber-luxury and performance. They are flagship models that promise a first-class experience for passengers and drivers alike, perfectly aligning our visions of progress and innovation in one.” The unveiling of the new Audi A8 and S8 models perfectly coincided with the surprise showing of the Audi skysphere, a concept car

perfectly illustrating the brand’s vision for the progressive luxury segment of the future, with features that include autonomous driving, a revolutionary interior and a seamless digital ecosystem. The Audi A8 and S8 are sedans that represent status and exude authority – now that they have been reimagined, their exteriors are even more representative, confident, and athletic, while their interiors are more premium than ever before. Both models are set to arrive in the region later this year, and are symbols of status and prestige for the brand. The fourth generation of the luxury sedan, which Audi introduced in 2017, raised it to a new level with respect to power, look, and equipment, remaining the progressive face of the brand until today. The A8 and S8 meet the needs of a changing customer base. In both models, the premium concept is defined first and foremost by an emotional and comfortable interior experience, coupled with new and established technologies. The S8 sees this exemplified from a pure

performance standpoint, inspired by Audi’s racing heritage, combining progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism. The Audi Group, with its brands Audi, Ducati, and Lamborghini, is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the premium segment. It is present in more than 100 markets worldwide and produces at 16 locations in 11 countries. 100 percent subsidiaries of AUDI AG include Audi Sport GmbH (Neckarsulm, Germany), Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. (Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy) and Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. (Bologna, Italy). AUDI AG’s commitment to the region was confirmed through the foundation of its fully owned subsidiary in 2005. The current Middle East model range comprises the Audi A3 and S3 and RS3, A4 and S4, the A5/S5 Coupe and Sportback, RS5 Sportback, the A6, S6, A7, S7, A8 L and S8, the Audi Q3, Q3 Sportback, Q5 & SQ5, Q7, Q8 and RS Q8 as well as the R8. audi-me.com

04 A symbol of status and prestige 05, 06, 07 New design that exudes authority 05

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08 Interior made with the highest levels of craftsmanship 09, 10 Exquisite exterior 11 Maybach by Virgil Abloh

June 2022

Mercedes-Maybach Virgil Abloh Limited Edition Bespoke S-Class Mercedes–Maybach unveiled the final chapter of Project MAYBACH - its cooperation with trusted partner, the late polymath artist, architect, creative director, fashion designer and philanthropist, Virgil Abloh. Designed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Group AG Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener in 2021, the vehicle was finalized before Abloh’s untimely passing in November and is available in a strictly limited run of 150 units. The launch coincides with the release of a capsule collection designed by Virgil Abloh and in collaboration with Off-White™. It has been developed in connection to the Project MAYBACH electric showcar and is exclusively available to buy on Off-White™, Farfetch and Maybach Icons of Luxury online stores, as well as Off-White™ stores in select markets. For over a century, Mercedes–Maybach has defined the boundaries of luxury experiences, and the limited edition Maybach by Virgil Abloh, a fully equipped Mercedes-Maybach S-Class S680 (WLTP combined fuel consumption: 14.3-13.4 l/100 km | combined CO2 emissions: 326-304 g/km)1 continues this tradition. Created by Mercedes-Benz’ most specialized customization and craftmanship team in the manufaktur in Sindelfingen – the

vehicle exterior features the unique two-tone color combination created for Project MAYBACH. While the upper part of the vehicle is lacquered in a glossy obsidian black, the lower part, side flanks and special forged rims are painted in a sand hue. The highest levels of craftsmanship continue into the vehicle’s interior with an identical two-tone colour scheme. The four-seat configuration, steering wheel, doors, lower dashboard and ceiling are lined in black and sand colored nappa leather, complete with sand colored décor trims and strips. The highpile floormats are black with a sand-colored leather border and embroidered Mercedes-Maybach logo. To enhance its monolithic appearance, the window frames are painted, and a special Mercedes-Maybach and Virgil Abloh logo is inscribed on the piano black middle of the center-console, rear cushions, head restraints and door sill panel. Unique to the limited-edition S-Class is a bespoke user interface, which presents the driver with an even more luxurious variation of the Maybach MBUX suite of cutting-edge technologies. Handpicked visual elements are used to enrich the digital content: from a home button with colored border and brand logo denoting the edition, to profile pictures decorated with

luxurious fashion accessories. The result is an even more intuitive vehicle that exudes the limited edition’s distinctive style from exterior to interior. Every moment the driver spends on the road is elevated. All customers will be given a special custommade wooden box covered in sand colored nappa leather emblazoned with the Mercedes-Maybach and Virgil Abloh logo. The gift box contains a 1/18 scale replica of the limited-edition car, the two car keys and a carabiner hook. In addition, a special car cover featuring the Mercedes-Maybach and Virgil Abloh logo will be gifted to customers. The limited-edition S-Class is Abloh’s third cooperation project with Mercedes-Benz, and the second with Mercedes–Maybach. On 1 December 2021, Mercedes-Benz opened the doors of the Rubell Museum in Miami during Miami Art Week to showcase Project MAYBACH: a show car that exemplified the possibilities of future electric design. A year earlier, Abloh and Wagener – united in their passion to enrich the conversation around luxury design – reimagined the Mercedes-Benz G Class with Project Geländewagen. mercedes-benz.com

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June 2022

Ford Bronco 4x4 Born for adventure and Built Untamed exploration, all-new 4x4 Bronco is ready to deliver thrilling experiences with its heritage-inspired style, engineering and smart off-road technology, plus innovative features to help outdoor enthusiasts create adventures in the most remote corners of the region. We test drive the Bronco on the streets of Dubai, where we unleashed its full potential. Available in both two and four door models with a choice of two engines and four adventure ready specs, Bronco owners can choose from an extensive lineup of more than 150 factory-backed accessories for maximum personalization, enabling dealers to provide outfitting-on-demand for each customer’s individual adventure needs. Just like the first-generation Bronco, nicknamed G.O.A.T., the mission of the new Bronco is to deliver maximum 4x4 go-anywhere, anytime capability and confidence. Bronco incorporates drive technologies to give novice adventurers as much fun as hard-core off-road experts, while its Built Untamed durability makes for lasting performance in the harshest of conditions for generations to come. Up to seven driver-selectable modes are offered including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and

Sand, with Baja, Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl for offroad driving. As the Bronco 4x4 glistened under the Dubai sun, we discovered that it was perfectly suited for these extremely hot weather conditions. The Bronco underwent a brutal test program that included hot weather testing in Middle East to ensure it could withstand local market conditions at the height of the summer. Ford’s Middle East team of specialist engineers focused on ensuring Bronco was ready to take on the region’s toughest conditions and its most demanding drivers. With summer temperatures in the Middle East regularly soaring to over 50 degrees Celsius, desert conditions are particularly brutal on the performance of vehicle powertrain and air-conditioning systems. And while the Bronco was engineered and tested by teams across the globe, it’s the particular nature of the conditions in the Middle East that make testing here so vital to the success of vehicles sold in the region. Thanks to Bronco’s legendary Baja racing DNA, each model brings forth a thrilling off-road experience and delivers it with modern, heritageinspired style. Bronco architecture for two- and four-door models is based on a fully boxed, high-

strength steel chassis that delivers available best-inclass suspension travel – 17 percent more both front and rear over the closest competitor to thrive in rugged environments. To deliver thrilling high-speed off-roading and overall driving performance, every Bronco comes with an independent front suspension for improved control, confidence and comfort. At the rear, a rugged solid axle design featuring coil springs with five locating links delivers both strength and off-road control. Long-travel position-sensitive Bilstein dampers with end-stop control valves at every corner are available for added off-road durability and reduced harshness. Performance-wise, the Bronco 4x4 met all expectations. Best-in-class projected gasolinepowered horsepower and torque is available with the 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, which produces 330 horsepower and 563Nm of torque, while the 2.3-litre EcoBoost delivers best-in-class fourcylinder torque of 420Nm with 275 horsepower. As with the five generations before it, the allnew Bronco two-door and four-door models is built at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan. me.ford.com

12 The all-new Ford Bronco 4x4 13, 14 15, Thrilling experiences and unique design

MUST HAVE - MEN

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

194

June 2022

Vespa Justin Bieber Scooter The Vespa scooter has been a must-have celebrity accessory since its introduction in 1946. Pop star Justin Bieber is so smitten with the Italian icon that he designed his own and is releasing it as a limitededition model. Starting with the Vespa Sprint as a base, the Bieber collaboration adds an all-white colorway with subtle gray flames on the front fender and rear compartment. The Vespa Sprint comes with either 50, 125, or 150cc engine sizes, 12-inch wheels, and an LCD multifunction display with smartphone connectivity. vespa.com

Balenciaga Coffee Cups To celebrate the latest Cities launch, Balenciaga has released a special item you will definitely want to add to your growing collection of fashion collectibles. Definitely a want and not a need (no, never a need), each coffee cup features the Balenciaga’s varsity-style logo. Each cup will come with the name of the city it was purchased in, which also means you will find ‘Singapore’ on the ones you buy at either Balenciaga boutique at Marina Bay Sands and Paragon Shopping Centre. balenciaga.com

Dolce&Gabbana Casa Scented Candle - Sicilian Orange Dolce&Gabbana Casa presents a line of scented candles, authentic high-quality aromatic harmonies. From the freshness of citrus scents to the intensity of spicy accents, from the elegance of floral notes to the vivacity of Mediterranean herbs, each candle leads to a sensorial journey through memories and sensations. dolcegabbana.com

Dior Aqua Bottle with Shoulder Strap The Dior Aqua bottle and holder is an exceptional work of technical savoirfaire and elegance. Designed in stainless steel, the bottle is equipped with isothermal technology to keep drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. The bottle features the Dior Oblique motif and a laser-etched ‘DIOR’ signature, while the off-white grained calfskin holder is enhanced by a ‘DIOR’ signature. The removable and adjustable ‘CHRISTIAN DIOR’ nylon jacquard and grained calfskin shoulder strap allows the piece to be worn crossbody as well as slipped into a bag. dior.com

Fornasetti Profumi Three of the most iconic decorations in the Fornasetti universe embellish the profiles of these new creations and are linked to exclusive fragrances designed specifically for Fornasetti Profumi. The choice of a 100% natural wax, resulting from sustainable production, marks a further renewal in terms of quality craftsmanship and more ethical consumption. fornasetti.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

196

June 2022

Globe-Trotter Centenary 12-Slot Watch Case A milestone in Globe-Trotter’s history, the Watch Case is for the discerning collector and holds up to 12 individual timepieces. Cool and contemporary, it keeps your precious cargo secure in style. This piece is from our Centenary Black / Black collection. The pure black aesthetic in our signature silhouette is a masterclass in modern elegance. globe-trotter.com

Gucci Oura Ring Self-discovery takes on new meaning with Gucci x Oura: a collaboration that celebrates individuality. Paying tribute to the brand’s origins in the world of sports and leisure, the Gucci x Oura Ring expresses this connection through a precious interpretation of Guccio Gucci’s monogram with yellow gold finish details. The ring includes an Oura membership and empowers individuals to discover each day’s potential through three daily scores for Sleep, Readiness and Activity. gucci.com

Globe-Trotter Dr. No Luggage In its ongoing partnership with 007, Globe-Trotter is proud to unveil a new luggage collection to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dr. No, the film that launched the record-breaking franchise and set the benchmark for Bond. With 2022 marking the 60th anniversary of the James Bond film franchise, Globe-Trotter has added to its range of 007 luggage with the introduction of a visually stunning set inspired by the very first Bond movie, 1962’s Dr. No. globe-trotter.com

Louis Vuitton Canvas Foosball Table Louis Vuitton delves into the world of games and leisure to produce the striking Epi Leather Foosball Table. This masterfully constructed item showcases an elegantly shaped top covered in durable Epi leather. The hand-painted players, inspired by a 1921 LV groom illustration, are operated by sleek handles covered in cowhide leather for a comfortable grip. louisvuitton.com

MB&F MusicMachine 1 Reloaded MusicMachine 1 Reloaded still looks like a spaceship hailing from a galaxy far, far away. Just slightly different than before. Like the original version, each of the cylinders on MusicMachine 1 Reloaded plays three tunes, all personally selected by Maximilian Büsser. The left cylinder plays the Star Wars theme, “Imperial March” from The Empire Strikes Back, and the theme from Star Trek. Back on earth, the right cylinder plays Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall,” Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water,” and John Lennon’s “Imagine.” mbandf.com

MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential EVO LM Sequential EVO is MB&F’s 20th caliber in just 17 years – and its first-ever chronograph. Conceived with Stephen McDonnell, who previously reinvented for MB&F the perpetual calendar complication with the award-winning LM Perpetual. The LM Sequential EVO movement incorporates two column-wheel chronographs and a groundbreaking “Twinverter” binary switch, allowing multiple timing modes including split-second and lap timer modes – a combination never seen before in any chronograph. mbandf.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

198

June 2022

Montblanc High Artistry the First Ascent of the Mont Blanc Montblanc pays tribute to the first ascent of Europe’s highest peak with a limited-edition collection that takes craftsmanship to new heights. Rising out of the Alps to a height of 4,810 meters on the border between France and Italy, the Mont Blanc is the highest peak in Western Europe. To honor the courageous first ascent of the Mont Blanc summit and the ongoing pioneering spirit of the Maison, Montblanc has created the High Artistry the First Ascent of the Mont Blanc Limited Edition. montblanc.com

Campfire Audio Supermoon

Purnell AS Monaco Limited Edition

Float weightlessly in pure sonic tranquility with Supermoon. Supermoon extends to surround you completely, enveloping you in a smooth and satisfying presentation. Velvety low-end, textural mids and radiant highs; a uniquely meditative and tranquil experience you can enjoy effortlessly for hours. Coupled with the superior comfort of our audiophile or artist fit means an everyday musical escape is always within reach.

Purnell created a World Premiere for its AS Monaco collaboration: two limited editions featuring a seethrough football tourbillon crafted out of tinted crystal, putting the tourbillon inside on full display. Unveiled in two limited editions of 11 pieces—to match the number of players on the pitch—the Purnell x AS Monaco timepiece features a completely new take on the “football tourbillon” created just a year ago by Purnell on the occasion of its partnership with France Football and the Ballon d’Or.

campfireaudio.com

purnellwatches.com

Oooni Koda 16 Gas-Powered Pizza Oven Ooni’s Koda 16 hooks up to standard grill-sized propane tanks for instant ignition, reaching temps up to 950ºF in just 20 minutes. An innovative L-shaped flame cooks pizzas, steaks, fish, and vegetables evenly, with a wide opening making it easy to get food in and out and a large stone baking board providing heat from below. Made from insulated, powder-coated carbon steel, it’s highly durable, and has folding legs for storage and occasional transport. ooni.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

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

My Wish List

200

Dior Technogym Technogym innovation meets Dior elegance for an exciting series of limited-edition home fitness products that include a treadmill, a multifunctional bench and a wellness ball. Three of the most iconic Technogym products are revisited with Dior codes to become symbols of excellence and attention to detail, embodying the values and culture shared by both brands. dior.com

The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

June 2022

Dolce&Gabbana Scented Candle - Lemon Dolce&Gabbana Casa presents a line of scented candles, authentic high-quality aromatic harmonies. From the freshness of citrus scents to the intensity of spicy accents, from the elegance of floral notes to the vivacity of Mediterranean herbs, each candle leads to a sensorial journey through memories and sensations. dolcegabbana.com

Chopard Happy Hearts Inspired by the Chopard ‘heart’ emblem, the Happy Hearts collection glorifies this universal symbol of life and feelings through a version entirely crafted in ethical yellow gold. The heart is a longstanding focus of the aesthetics underlying Chopard creations, of which it reflects the values. chopard.com

Dolce&Gabbana Persol Sunglasses and Eyeglasses The flair of Dolce&Gabbana and Persol’s unmistakable signature have produced a special collection of sunglasses and eyeglasses that encapsulates the essence of the two Italian brands in an original way, combining aesthetic research and expertise. dolcegabbana.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

202

June 2022

FAN Fluorescent Blue Dioriviera 2022 Toile de Jouy Inspired by a summer wardrobe designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the creations are adorned with the hallmark Toile de Jouy. Reimagined in intense peony pink, fluorescent orange and fluorescent blue, the iconic motif adorns the fan. dior.com

Fornasetti Profumi Fendace Black metal Logo glasses Mugs Fendi and Versace come together to create a collection that celebrates the legacy and symbols of both fashion houses. Made in Italy, this travel mug comes with cover and straw. Fully decorated with black and golden zircons, it features the Fendace logo.

Three of the most iconic decorations in the Fornasetti universe embellish the profiles of these new creations and are linked to exclusive fragrances designed specifically for Fornasetti Profumi. The choice of a 100% natural wax, resulting from sustainable production, marks a further renewal in terms of quality craftsmanship and more ethical consumption. fornasetti.com

fendi.com

Globe-Trotter This Bag Contains Magic Under the name “This Bag Contains Magic,” the collection celebrates the origins of The Walt Disney Company and its iconic characters. Taking fans back to the ’20s - ’30s-era of Disney - not too far from Globe-Trotter’s founding year in 1897. globe-trotter.com

Beautifect Gold Box

Louis Vuitton Skimboard

Beautifect has a range of truly innovative features designed to make a real difference to your daily makeup routine. A new era in the way we do our makeup every day has begun. You no longer need to be tied down to one place. Get ready in less time, with less effort whilst achieving better results with our advanced lighting system.

This colourful skimboard brings spring style to the beach. The piece features prominent LV Initials against a wood background on one side, designed to look like they’re being dipped into a wave. On the opposite side is an oversized Monogram accented by a vibrant gradient of pastels seen across the Spring-Summer 2022 Collection.

beautifect.com

louisvuitton.com

Montblanc Meisterstück A new collection of writing instruments inspired by the mesmerizing beauty of the glaciers of the Mont Blanc mountain. The captivating glaciers have inspired the Montblanc Meisterstück Glacier, a new collection of four different Meisterstück writing instruments with new finishes and treatments reminiscent of the mystical beauty of these ancient glaciers. montblanc.com

Versace La Vacanza Prints spread across coordinated bikinis, silk shirts and swimming trunks, while printed silk scarves are tied around the new La Medusa wicker basket bag. Wide canvas tote bags feature the Versace logo and Medusa plaque in full tonal colorways of red, yellow and DV blue, and are truly versatile styles for the beach and beyond. versace.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

Missoni Home Collection 2022 The Missoni Home collection is a harmonious combination, almost a play of extraordinary design, colour and fabrics. There is artistic energy in the iconic patterns, always coherent, profound and spontaneous. There is design in the versatile shapes that can be mixed and matched for infinite interpretations. The charisma of each item promotes creative ideas, adding charm to large and small spaces. missoni.com

Plein Hyper $Hock Tornado Silver Crystal Watch Shake your time with Hyper $hock! It is time to be different and go beyond a standard look. This digital timepiece claims to be in absolute contrast with the digital world we are used to see or to wear. Hyper $hock is distinctive, fun, cool, unisex. For daily look or night out, it goes well with all outfits. plein.com

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Miumiu Yoga Mat Dynamism and movement are the keywords for the Miu Miu yoga mat with carry harness and detachable shoulder strap. Animated by the macro logo, the accessory is part of a refined lifestyle selection for sport lovers. It features nylon tape carry harness and removable logoprint shoulder strap. miumiu.com

June 2022

BOOK REVIEW

206

June 2022

Orientalism Style Assouline introduces Orientalism Style, another addition to the Style series, which spotlights some of the most iconic art movements and design styles, revealing their historical impact and continuing influence on our culture today.

“Orientalist painters were collectors of dreams, in

the way lovers of objects transform their study into a cabinet of curiosities.”

For centuries, the West has been fascinated by the mysterious allure of the Middle East and Asia, captivated by the curious customs, the exotic spices and colors of the bazaars, the romantic atmosphere of the graceful architecture and flowing garments. In the popular imagination, thoughts of the East evoke stories of travel, literature, paintings, decorative arts, fashion, and films that have enchanted us for decades. As if viewing the world from a magic flying carpet, through the perspective of Orientalism the nostalgia for vanished civilizations developed into an idealized fantasy. More than a style, Orientalism is a way of seeing, of perceiving, of sharing emotions and palettes of colors, sensations. Historically, the

wealth of the East’s exuberant kaleidoscope of mysteries and perfumes was an antidote to the conservative establishment and ordered rational thinking. Orientalist painters were collectors of dreams, in the way lovers of objects transform their study into a cabinet of curiosities. From Marco Polo’s Book of the Marvels of the World to Byron’s Turkish Tales, from Paul Poiret to Yves Saint Laurent and John Galliano, from Delacroix to the British explorer Richard Burton, from Cleopatra to Lawrence of Arabia, Orientalism offers a vision filled with dreams, secrets and poetry, a sensuous tableau perfumed with incense, interweaving past and present. assouline.com

BOOK REVIEW

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June 2022

“More than a style, Orientalism is a way of seeing,

of perceiving, of sharing emotions and palettes of colors, sensations.”

BOOK REVIEW

210

June 2022

HAJJ AND THE ARTS OF PILGRIMAGE Published by Assouline, Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage comprises some 5,000 objects covering all aspects of Hajj, from the eighth to the twentyfirst centuries and geographically from China to India and around the globe to Morocco and the United Kingdom.

Since the advent of Islam, Hajj has been one of the most remarkable religious gatherings in the world. A compulsory act for Muslims, if they are able, the annual observance of Hajj has always had a great impact on the Muslim world, and for centuries pilgrims and rulers alike have held a deep love for the Holy Sanctuaries of Mecca and Medina. Yet, until recently, this ritual has remained largely unfamiliar to the Western world. The Khalili Collection of Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage includes Qur’ans, illustrated manuscripts, rare books, scientific instruments, textiles, coins, paintings, and prints, as well as unique archival documents and examples of the work of some of the earliest photographers of the Hajj. It is one of the largest and most

comprehensive collections of its kind. Featuring insightful chapters on the Islamic principles of Hajj, travel, rituals, sacred manuscripts, textiles, souvenirs and Western perspectives, this wonderfully illustrated volume narrates and reveals the broad spiritual, cultural and artistic aspects of the pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina. Told exclusively through the Khalili Collection of Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage by Qaisra M. Khan, formerly at the British Museum and now a curator for the Khalili Collections, who for more than fifteen years has specialized in the Arts of Pilgrimage, this book will significantly enrich all people’s understanding of this important practice. assouline.com

BOOK REVIEW

212

“This book will significantly enrich all people’s understanding of this important practice.”

June 2022

FINAL PEARL

214

48th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition On behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, opened the 48th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition at the Bahrain National Theater. A number of senior officials also attended the opening of the event, which will continue until end of June. Organized by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition includes the participation of 60 Bahraini and Bahraini-resident artists, and contains more than 100 artworks that reflect various schools and artistic trends, ranging from drawing with various types of materials, installations and videos, photography, sculptures, and more.

During the exhibition, the winners of the three annual awards were as follows: the first place AlDana Award was won by Jaafar Al-Araibi, second place was won by Maryam Al-Noaimi and Nouf AlRifai came in third place. The Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition is the largest and most important art exhibition in Bahrain. Over the years, it has attracted the most prominent figures of the fine art movement in the Kingdom, including pioneers and young talents. The exhibition reflects the comprehensiveness of the Bahraini fine arts that constitutes a cornerstone of the local cultural scene. culture.gov.bh

June 2022

HAPPY SPORT - Handcrafted in Ethical Gold -

THE GMT-MASTER II Developed for transatlantic pilots in 1955, the GMT-Master II continues to evolve for the modern traveller, with a patented Cerachrom bezel and ever-increasing standards of precision.

#Perpetual

OYSTER PERPETUAL GMT-MASTER II