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WELCOME

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First Impression

A word from the editor-in-chief

June 2018

Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Features Editor Tariq Khonji Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Art Art Director Nils Albrechtsen 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 10 Issue 04 SUMMER 2018

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Every issue of Durrah is a labor of love. It comes from a very special place and a desire to serve as a vehicle to the best our world has to offer. This makes each issue special. That said, this issue is even more special for us as it marks the 10-year anniversary since we launched the magazine.

What started as a vision soon became reality only because of the hard work and sheer dedication that our team has given to Durrah over the years.

Since the beginning, we made a pledge to ourselves to always aim for the highest standards with each article. Today, our pledge to our readers is to maintain the quality that they have come to expect from us, and we are confident that you will see that in each future issue. You can read all about our journey in our special 10th year anniversary article.

To mark such a special occasion, we made sure to bring you a host of special interviews and articles that truly reflect the status we have achieved. Our dear readers will be pleased to know that we have the crème de la crème of Baselworld gracing our pages in this issue. We talk to senior figures at Graff, Van Cleef & Arpels, Corum and other brands that are synonymous with luxury

watches. We also talk to Kresimir Kucko, the CEO of Gulf Air to find out what plans are in store for the Kingdom’s national carrier amid plans to boost tourism rates. Al Baraka Islamic Bank CEO, Mohamed Al Mutaweh shares his ambitious vision of incorporating Sharia-compliant FinTech solutions into Islamic Banking’s offerings. And we interview Mohammed and Ahmed Shirazi, Directors at Bahrain Jewellery Centre about the journey of their historic family business.

Needless to say, those are just samplings of what the issue has to offer. As you have come to expect, the magazine is also filled to the brim with breathtaking destinations, prestigious hotels, delectable gourmet food, invigorating perfumes, and essential lifestyle items just to name a few.

Truly a milestone issue for a milestone occasion.

Cover Image Celebrating 10 years of Durrah

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!

ISSN 2210-1322

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

DURRAHMAGAZINE

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

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18 17:29

CONTENTS Volume 10 Issue 04 Summer 2018

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Editor’s Letter

Interview with Bahrain Jewellery Center Directors, Ahmed and Mohammed Shirazi

Interview with Van Cleef & Arpels ME & India Managing Director, Alessandro Maffi

First Impression

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Boosting National Resources Maraee 2018

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Family Brand

Distinctive Craftsmanship

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Interview with Owner of Mahonia, Sawsan Baluch

Al Zain Jewellery launches Hab El Hayl collection

Culinary Adventures

Modern Classic

Premier’s Majlis book launch

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Interview with Al Baraka Isamic Bank CEO, Mohamed Al Mutaweh

Interview with Omega President and CEO, Raynald Aeschlimann

Preserving Our Heritage Marking a Milestone Celebrating 10 years of Durrah

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Embracing Change

Interview with Gulf Air CEO, Kesimir Kucko

Leading the Way

Universal Timepieces

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Interview with professional ship model maker, Carlos Montalvao

Interview with Graff CEO, Nicolas Sestito

Follow the Sea

Zenith of Luxury

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For the Dreamers

Interview with Corum CEO, Jerome Biard

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CONTENTS

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June 2018

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Hublot’s FIFA World Cup watch

Perfumes for men

Massimo Dutti’s new Ramadan collection

Winning Form

Scented Power

Delicately Nuanced

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Watches for men

Perfumes for women

Lanvin Fall-Winter 2018 collection

Luxury Statements

Captivating Fragrances

Digital Couture

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Watches for women

The latest in ladies’ brand name bags

Roberto Cavalli’s Fall 2018 collection

Feminine Charm

Exquisite Style

Glam Wear

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Interview with Amouage Creative Director, Christopher Chong

The latest in designer brand women’s shoes

Michael Kour’s Spring 2018 collection

Reimagining Perfumery

Stepping in Style

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Escentric Molecules

The latest and most elegant eyewear

Niche Aroma

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Specs Appeal

Laid-back Glamour

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Boutique Experience

Luxurious shopping destinations

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164

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Interview with wildlife sculptor, Bill Pricket

The best hotels in the world

Car reviews

Natural Talent

Redefining Hospitality

Driven by Luxury

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184

Interview with artist, Ahmed Anan

Velaa, Maldives

Luxury items for Men

The Cultured Artist

Private Paradise

Must Haves for Men

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154

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Keukenhof, the most beautiful spring gardens in the world

The best spas in the world

Luxury items for women

In Bloom

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Manufacturing Elegance Ghidini 1961

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Marine Chic

Regent Porto Montenegro

Serene Treatments

Must Haves for Women

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196

Top dining locations

Capturing the splendor of the Arabian Horse

Refined Taste

Equine Treasures

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Chef Yann Bernard Lejard

Disney on Ice and Bahrain Summer Festival 2018

The Culinary Artist

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Final Pearl

D-Experience F1 Pirelli Hot Laps

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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Boosting National Resources

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Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the fourth edition of the Bahrain Animal Production Show (Mara’ee) was held from March 27 to 31, 2018 at the Bahrain Endurance Village in Sakhir. More than 45,000 visitors attended the event, which was launched in accordance with the leadership’s vision to promote Bahrain as a hub for international specialised animal production shows, and as a platform for researchers and exhibitors to meet and exchange expertise.

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One of the biggest shows held in Bahrain, all Maraee editions have witnessed a record turnout of citizens and residents.

90 exhibitors participated in the cattle, sheep, and goat section, where milk and meat production breeds were presented, and about 1000 bird exhibitors took part in the five-day show. The event also featured shows and competitions, and there were pavilions for artistic and scientific shows for children and leisure sites for families.

01 Part of the display at Maraee 2018 02 HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa 03 HM King Hamad on a tour during the event 04 International art displayed at the Maraee Art Gallery

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02 03

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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June 2018

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05 National heritage on display 06 Children enjoying the various activities 07 More than 45,000 visitors flocked to the 5-day event

08 Celebrations taking place at the event 09 The Equine Treasures book exhibition

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EVENT

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June 2018

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01 Dr. Abdulla Al Hawaj discusses the book with HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain 02 The front cover of the book 03 HH Shaik Ali bin Khalifa Alkhalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, receives his award.

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Preserving Our Heritage The book Premier’s Majlis, written by Al Ahlia University Founding President, Dr. Abdulla Al Hawaj, was launched during a ceremony at The RitzCarlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa. The launch was held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain, who received the first copy of the book at the ceremony.

HRH delivered a speech about how majlises provide an opportunity to meet citizens and learn

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about their needs and aspirations. He underlined the importance of documentation to preserve national and social identity, and lauded the key role Majlises play as a platform to cement social cohesion and strengthen national unity as they are passed down from one generation to the next.

Guests at the ceremony were also shown a documentary film shedding light on the Premier’s weekly majlises as a platform to address national issues and exchange viewpoints.

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EVENT

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“The launch was held under the patronage

of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain, who received the first copy of the book at the ceremony.”

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04 Pages from the book detailing the history of majlises 05 HRH the Prime Minister with honorees in attendance at the launch 06 Guests watching a documentary about the weekly majlises

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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Marking a Milestone Durrah celebrates 10 years of luxury lifestyle with this special feature, which highlights some of our most memorable articles

Passion, creativity, and a focus on luxury that is based on substance rather than excess have always been the driving forces behind this distinguished and influential luxury lifestyle magazine. Over the past decade, Durrah has documented many proud moments in the Kingdom’s history. It continues to provide its audience with a wealth of engaging articles, unique features, high profile interviews, and updates on the latest launches from the most exclusive luxury brands. As we look towards the future, our goal is to remain true to our roots and to continue setting a benchmark for quality and journalistic integrity.

Ten years ago, Maysoon Sabkar approached publisher Khalid Juman with an idea that would change the face of luxury lifestyle magazines in Bahrain. The objective was to create an exclusive publication for discerning readers, one that was content-driven and appealed to an elite clientele.

With the objectives decided, they brainstormed ideas for a name before agreeing on Durrah, which means pearl in Arabic and aptly reflects the publication’s vision.

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Exalted Royalty

Through various features over the years, Durrah has shone the spotlight on royalty and heads of state and government, including His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain; His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, The Prime Minister; His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa; Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister; and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty King Hamad and President of the Supreme Council for Women.

Global Artists

Durrah has also interviewed some of the most iconic international artists, gaining exclusive insight into their creative processes, sources of inspiration, and the stories behind their success. Some of our most noteworthy interviewees include M.F. Husain, one of the most celebrated and recognised Indian artists of the 20th century; trailblazing American glass sculptor, Dale Chihuly; ‘The Most Successful Artist in Turkey’, Ismail Acar; and Tunisian visual artist, Nja Almahdaoui.

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“In just 10 short years, Durrah has

grown to become the Middle East’s leading luxury lifestyle magazine.”

01 In Volume 3 Issue 3 (Spring 2011), Durrah highlighted His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, The King of Bahrain’s, decade of achievements since the endorsement of the National Action Charter 02 In Volume 4 Issue 1 (Autumn 2011), Durrah showcased HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, The Prime Minister’s, ongoing efforts to put Bahrain under the global spotlight

01

03 In Volume 4 Issue 2 (Winter 2011), Durrah documented HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, The Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister’s, important involvement in Bahrain’s political reforms

People of Influence

02

Standing as a testament to Durrah’s high calibre and global reach are the numerous prominent public figures we’ve featured in our interviews section. These include Ferrari’s former CEO and Chairman, Luca di Montezemolo; President of Patek Philippe, Thierry Stern; and KFH CEO, Abdul Hakim Alkhayyat.

Culinary Artists

Durrah’s dining section only highlights the crème de la crème of the culinary industry and has featured many of the most respected and distinguished chefs and restaurateurs in the world.

Among our most reputed interviewees was Alain Ducasse, who is one of only two chefs to hold 21 Michelin stars throughout his career. We have also proudly interviewed celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, whose gourmet restaurants are widely regarded as the benchmark for fine dining. Our special feature celebrating the life and accomplishments of iconic French chef Paul Bocuse, dubbed ‘the Pope of Gastronomy’, was another highlight.

03

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Renowned Architects

Many of the world’s leading architects have graced our pages, including Dame Zaha Hadid, an icon of the field and the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize. Some of her most prominent projects include Abu Dhabi Performing Arts Centre, and Dubai Opera House. Another of our proudest interviews was with Jean Nouvel, who is internationally acclaimed for his boldly experimental designs, which include the Quai Branly Museum in Paris, Copenhagen’s Concert Hall, and the Abu Dhabi Louvre.

Eminent Jewellers

Only the most elegant and exclusive brands are featured in Durrah’s Jewellery pages. Over the years, we have been fortunate enough to speak with eminent designers and top company executives about their dazzling collections. Some of our most prestigious interviewees include the Chairman of Bahrain’s renowned Al Zain jewellery house, Nabeel Al Zain, and famed Turkish jeweller Sevan Bıçakçı, whose clients include megastars such as Catherine Zeta-Jones, Elizabeth Hurley, Celine Dion, Liv Tyler, and Mariah Carey.

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The Next 10 Years

With a distinctively individual style and format, Durrah’s balance of intelligent topics and unrivalled imagery positions it as a unique publication in the Gulf. Through our coverage of artisan industries, sports, travel, food, fashion, jewellery, and heritage, and our thought-provoking interviews with the movers and shakers of the Gulf’s economies, Durrah aims not merely to reflect the trends of luxury lifestyle, but to set them.

“In just 10 short years, Durrah has grown to become the Middle East’s leading luxury lifestyle magazine. We reached this milestone by taking steady, confident steps and never losing sight of our long-term goals. Thanks to the passion and professionalism of our past and present team members, Durrah has set a benchmark for quality and aims to raise the bar even higher in the coming years. As our online presence continues to grow so does our audience, which enables us to showcase the best that Bahrain and the rest of the world have to offer on a global scale.”

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Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief 05

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04 The Powerboat P1 World Championship season finale graced the cover page of Durrah’s very first issue in Autumn 2008 05 The cover page of this 10-year anniversary edition, Volume 10 Issue 4 (Summer 2018)

07 In Volume 4 Issue 3 (Spring 2012), Durrah interviewed famed Turkish jeweller to the stars, Sevan Biçakçi 08 In Volume 6 Issue 4 (Summer 2014), Durrah featured trailblazing American glass sculptor, Dale Chihuly

06 In volume 8 Issue 4 (Summer 2016), Durrah celebrated the life and work of renowned architect, Zara Hadid

08

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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Embracing Change Ushering in a new era of aviation with Gulf Air CEO, Kresimir Kucko

01 Gulf Air plans to broaden travel scopes in 2018 02 Gulf Air CEO, Kresimir Kucko

What does the future hold for Gulf Air?

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2018 represents the beginning of a new era for Gulf Air and for the Kingdom of Bahrain. In 2018 and beyond, Gulf Air will challenge the traditional definition of travel, broadening its scope and making it more convenient and appealing for every traveller. 2018 sees us start to welcome our highly anticipated incoming fleet of 39 new Boeing and Airbus aircraft. A total of 7 new aircraft, 5 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and 2 Airbus A320neo aircraft, will enter the airline’s fleet before the end of the year. With this development, major positive change is on the horizon. The fleet expansion will ensure we maintain one of the youngest fleets in the region while building upon our award-winning reliability, on time performance and product and service standards.

Gulf Air’s new fleet will be outfitted with superior on-board products and services (some of the best in class seats, Inflight Entertainment and much more).

With aspirations to be best in class across both our wide and narrow body fleet, Gulf Air’s new business class offering will compete with the first-class standard of other airlines while our economy class

product will afford enhanced onboard comfort. Major network expansion will coincide with our new aircraft deliveries. Gulf Air will add eight new destinations to its network this year. In India, its current operations to Delhi, Chennai, Kochi, Mumbai, Trivandrum and Hyderabad, will be enhanced by flights to Bangalore and Calicut. We will also commence flights to the Saudi Arabian cities of Abha and Tubuk. This will expand our Saudi Arabia operations to complement our current service to Dammam, Riyadh, Madina Al Munawarah, Jeddah and Gassim. Gulf Air’s Cairo operations will be supplemented by direct flights to Alexandria and flights to Sharm El Shaikh. We will also launch operations to Baku in Azerbaijan and to Casablanca in Morocco. Alongside this, frequency changes to key routes in 2018 will enhance Gulf Air’s offering of seamless movement to and from the Kingdom of Bahrain – and across our network. Gulf Air will increase flights during the peak summer period by 200 more weekly flights compared to 2017. That’s not all of course, we recently rolled out our new brand identity. The new look and feel for Gulf Air, alongside our new fleet, new network, new products and services, represents the “Gulf Air of tomorrow”.

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The airline’s planned strategic growth in the years 2019-2023 will see us strengthening our regional base and then supplementing that with an expanded network that will reach various points across the globe. This includes: Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa, the Indian Subcontinent and, ultimately, North America.

By 2023 Gulf Air’s reach will have expanded to over 60 destinations. It is time for change and we are embracing it.

for greater comfort, large overhead bins with room for everyone’s bags, soothing LED lighting and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother 05 ride. Our Falcon Gold cabin, in particular, offers superior comfort and business travelers can step out of long haul flights expecting to feel just as fresh as they would after a short one-hour flight.

What makes the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner so groundbreaking?

Gulf Air has been a sponsor of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix since its first season. Can you tell us more about this partnership?

The addition of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to the Gulf Air fleet marks a historic moment for Gulf Air and the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is yet another important step in our strategic direction towards furthering our fleet’s modernisation process and strengthening our network and the overall passenger experience. The aircraft’s industry-leading technology boasts superior fuel efficiency, environmentally friendly operations and range flexibility that will facilitate our planned network expansion and fleet optimisation at a lower operating cost—it consumes around 20% less fuel and produces around 20% less emission than other aircraft types. Gulf Air’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will offer 282 seats in a twoclass configuration, with 26 Falcon Gold Class seats and 256 Economy Class seats – a 32% increase in capacity on the airline’s previous wide body offering.

Passengers will enjoy many improvements with the 787 family such as the largest windows of any jet, air that is cleaner, more humid and at a higher pressure

We are honoured to have been the Title Sponsor of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix ever since it made history as the first Formula 1 Grand Prix to be held in the Middle East in 2004. We are longstanding partners with the Formula 1 and by bringing the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix to Bahrain year after year, we are propelling Bahrain onto the international stage. Gulf Air’s F1 partnership is key to the national carrier’s mission to further bolster the Kingdom’s economic development and promote Bahrain on a regional and global level. We are proud of our association with the Bahrain Grand Prix, as it was the first Formula One race in the region and a trailblazing event which paved the way for others.

Over the past 14 years, this partnership has proven to be an excellent opportunity for exposure as it reaches over 380 million people around the world. This year, we used this platform to reveal our new Gulf Air livery and our new brand. Public reaction to witnessing the return of the Gulf Air fly pass at the Bahrain Grand

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June 2018

Prix and to getting an early glimpse of one of our newest incoming aircraft has been overwhelmingly positive. As a key national infrastructure asset, Gulf Air connects Bahrain to the world serving as a powerful driver for the economy and supporting the Kingdom’s ongoing economic growth. We are always looking for opportunities to raise awareness of the many attractions Bahrain has to offer, facilitating travel to the Kingdom and giving visitors the chance to experience the trademark Arabian hospitality for which our national carrier is renowned. Accordingly, we constantly assess sponsorship opportunities in line with our mission to promote the Kingdom on a regional and global level and further bolster its economic development.

How will Gulf Air benefit from Bahrain International Airport’s Modernisation Programme?

Gulf Air is currently responsible for almost 70% of Bahrain International Airport traffic, a role we are proud of and hope to develop further over time.

With plans, in 2018, to strategically develop our network with the addition of direct flights to eight new destinations, Bahrain International Airport’s expansion will mirror that of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier. That simultaneous growth and development bodes well for Bahrain’s national carrier and the Kingdom’s aviation, transport and tourism infrastructures and the industry as a whole.

Bahrain International Airport is key to our operations, as Gulf Air’s hub. We truly believe it is one of the

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03 B787-9 Dreamliner’s Business Class seats 04 The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will offer 256 Economy Class seats 05 Business Class cabin of a B787-9 Dreamliner

best airports in the region – the ease, efficiency and convenience of procedures within the airport make entry, exit and transit through Bahrain highly attractive. Bahrain International Airport’s expansion project and modernisation programme will better serve our passengers and we look forward to its completion. It will enhance the Kingdom’s accessibility to the world and support Gulf Air’s offering of seamless movement to and from Bahrain – and across our network. We anticipate it will be the fastest connection hub in the region if not the world. For an airline that operates double daily flights or more to select destinations across the GCC, MENA region, Indian Subcontinent and Europe, providing seamless connectivity for passengers travelling across our network is critical and we believe the efficiency that BIA boasts today will only be further enhanced in future. The new passenger terminal will deliver a superior travel experience for all, including transit passengers, who will get a taste of Bahraini hospitality and culture without even leaving the airport. If they do wish to explore the Kingdom, Gulf Air is offering 2- to 3-day stopover packages, which is one of the ways we support Bahrain’s tourism industry. Gulf Air is set to have a new 2,500 square metre lounge for our passengers in the new terminal, which will offer a comfortable environment for them to rest or

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catch up on work before a flight, and will of course feature our excellent F&B offering. Above all, the new terminal will offer seamless connectivity, which Gulf Air customers will no doubt appreciate. It will also enable us to accommodate a growing number of flights and passengers. We are grateful to our partners, Bahrain Airport Company, Bahrain Airport Services, and Bahrain Aviation Fueling Company (BAFCO), for their support.

What was the rationale behind the new branding?

As you know, 2018 is a year of change for Gulf Air as we embark upon a new era in our history.

Our new Gulf Air brand is very elegant and befits the heritage of one of the region’s pioneering airlines.

It reflects the change we are currently undergoing and our plans for the future – giving a promise to our valued customers of what the Gulf Air passenger experience is becoming as we strive to be the airline of choice with a global footprint and best in class.

The falcon, which is symbolic of Gulf Air, has been redesigned with its wings wide-open embracing flight with all its power. The falcon is looking upwards and this is significant because it reflects our ambitions, determination and focus as we enter a new era for Gulf Air and Bahrain. The falcon is a symbol that connects beyond Gulf Air to Bahrain and the

Middle East. It is a symbol of our heritage, courage, perseverance and freedom – something that Gulf Air embodies in its pristine service and beauty. This is an icon that defines and is ingrained in Gulf Air and Bahrain; it forms a key cornerstone of our brand both strategically and visually.

How are you settling in to Bahrain?

Bahrain is the fifth country I have lived in, and my first Middle East assignment, although I have been to the region many times on business. I am here with my family and it has been an overwhelmingly positive experience for us all so far. We find the Bahraini people very friendly, and coming from Croatia, which is a small Mediterranean country similar to an island nation like Bahrain in many ways, we feel very much at home here.

How do you spend your spare time?

Spare time is a luxury I rarely get, but when I do, I like to play rugby at the Bahrain Rugby Club. I also enjoy exploring Bahrain. So far, I have visited the Tree of Life among other tourist attractions. One of my favourite experiences was visiting Jarada island. I am sure I will get to experience Bahrain very well in the years to come. gulfair.com

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June 2018

Family Brand

The formula behind the decades-long success of Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

INTERVIEW WITH BAHRAIN JEWELLERY CENTRE DIRECTOR, MOHAMMED SHIRAZI

Based on your experience at Baselworld, what are the upcoming watch trends that people should expect?

There have been a few trends that were evident at the fair. The main one we have noticed is that watch dials are becoming smaller than they used to be. The ideal watch size is now between 39-42mm, which is going back to how they used to be made in previous years. Every year, there is a distinct color that brands use for their dials. Last year it was blue, and this year most watch dials came in green. Generally, the direction that watch trends has been leaning towards is that they have become sleeker.

To what would you attribute BJC’s success in maintaining its leading position?

BJC is current. We carry some of the best jewellery and watch brands from around the world, and we cater to a variety of customers, which displays our depth. We also make sure that customer care remains the most crucial aspect in our company. It’s a principle we have instilled within

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all our staff, with some staff being with us back from the inception of BJC in 1978. BJC is not just an organization. We are a family, and we deal with our customers with the same ideals in mind.

01 BJC Director, Mohammed Shirazi 02 BJC Director, Ahmed Shirazi

What would you say is the latest trend in the jewellery world?

Many brands are bringing statement cuffs back, which is a bold and powerful look that resembles warrior women in history. Also, many brands have been incorporating luxurious greens in their collections, be it emeralds or other green stones.

Another trend would be extra-long necklaces and shoulder-skimming earrings.

What should people bear in mind when buying a luxury watch? How should they choose between the various brands housed at BJC? When buying a luxury watch, one should consider what suits their wrist the most depending on dial size and shape, the history of the watch brand, and the type of watch they are looking for, whether it is a specific movement or a simple classic

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“When buying a luxury watch, one should consider what suits their wrist the most depending on dial size and shape”

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everyday watch. As each brand has a different identity, the customer should pick a watch that allows them to identify with the brand’s personality.

Which of BJC’s brands do you find resonate most with young professionals today, and which ones are preferred by more mature customers?

Young professionals seem to gravitate more towards everyday luxury that provides a state of comfort and elegance at the same time, whether with watches or jewellery. Our more mature customers seek out pieces with more splendour, so older women are often after the more striking and dazzling yet classic pieces of jewellery.

What kind of challenges does Bahrain’s jewellery market face these days?

In previous years, there might have been confusion about what true luxury is, but the market is now more aware of what luxury is comprised of: craftsmanship, brand history, and a greater focus on the gemological aspect of certain diamond and gemstone properties.

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How does Bahrain’s jewellery market fare in the region? Does it have its own advantages or unique characteristics?

June 2018

03 HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain with the BJC family

Bahrain has been a leader in the jewellery and watch field in the region, which is a definite advantage. The most evident being the Jewellery Arabia exhibition, which has been held every year since 1992. Year after year, it has been growing, showing the experience of the exhibitors and the clientele of the jewellery and watch field.

With such a wide range of brands under its name, what would be the next step for BJC? Do you have any future expansion plans?

BJC always seeks opportunities for expansion as long as it complies with our company’s vision and DNA. As a lot of our recent expansions have been stand-alone boutiques, we are always looking for new brands to embrace under the BJC family, and we believe our new brand acquisitions will not fall short to our loyal customers.

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04 HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince of Bahrain alongside BJC Managing Director, Dr. Abdul Qassim Shirazi (second from right) and Ahmed Shirazi (third from left)

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INTERVIEW WITH BAHRAIN JEWELLERY CENTRE DIRECTOR, AHMED SHIRAZI BJC recently participated in Baselworld, which is one of the world’s most exclusive jewellery and watch exhibitions. What were your key takeaways from this event?

Was there a particular collection that caught your attention?

Swiss luxury watchmakers Hublot unveiled a watch called Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia at Baselworld.

What kind of buyer is this watch aimed at, and can Hublotistas in Bahrain expect to get their hands on it anytime soon?

As everyone knows, Baselworld is the mecca of the jewellery and watch world and it is always a pleasure for us to participate. As per usual, Patek Philippe exceeds our expectations every year at the fair. Also, Omega’s collection excels yearly and has definitely placed itself as one of the most current luxury watch brands. Since Hublot is the official timekeeper of this year’s World Cup, they have created limited edition pieces as well. And you can’t deny the wondrous jewellery or watches masterpieces that have been produced by Bulgari, Chopard, and Maria Gaspari.

As it is Hublot’s third participation as FIFA World Cup’s Branded Licensee, Hublot has produced the Big Bang Referee watch. FIFA has approached Hublot to create a watch that is so precise that the official referees can wear it during football matches. With only 2018 pieces produced, this watch will definitely be a winner for football fanatics as it is a great memorabilia item to have. The Big Bang Referee watch is currently available at BJC.

Do you have a personal favorite watch, and what does it say about you?

BJC carries a large selection of watch brands and we believe that each brand has its distinct identity with certain special pieces within in each brand. It is quite difficult to choose a personal favorite as each brand has its own unique craftsmanship and design. Each watch has a certain element that allows one to appreciate it.

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Patek Philippe markets itself as an heirloom piece to be passed on through the generations. How does that influence buyers of this brand?

When you purchase a Patek Philippe, you are purchasing a unique and sentimental piece that by its own nature is one to be passed on to loved ones from generation to generation. A Patek Philippe watch is timeless and the workmanship of the watch is exquisite. The artisanal skills it takes to produce a Patek Philippe watch is nothing less than art. There is a deep history behind the brand that is undeniable and this is what makes it special.

Maria Gaspari’s latest collection is inspired by Roman glamour and opulence. Can you tell us how this fits in with the modern woman’s vision of herself?

The epitome of Roman women is power, and with Maria Gaspari’s collection embracing romance and opulence, this definitely fits in with the modern woman. The modern woman aspires to be independent and strong but yet feminine and luxurious.

Oris’ mechanical watches are divided into four collections: Motor Sport, Aviation, Culture and Diving. What makes these watches uniquely suited to these activities, and do you recommend them to nonadventurous people as well?

Oris have done thorough research to provide each watch with the proper criteria to be labelled into each of the categories they have been placed into. For example, for the Diving watches, the mechanism has been produced to handle the pressures of underwater diving. I would recommend them to everyone, adventurous or not, as they are lovely timepieces to own and a great addition to any watch collection.

Is there a new brand we should expect to be added to BJC’s range soon?

There is an exciting brand that will be joining the BJC family hopefully very soon and will be revealed in the upcoming months. bjc.com.bh

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01 Ms. Sawsan Baluch, owner and visionary behind Mahonia 02 Murano, Baccarat, and Lalique accentuate the decor and showcase world-class attention to detail

Culinary Adventures

03 Mahonia’s opulent yet sensual interiors are designed to be the ultimate combination of luxury and comfort

Exploring gastronomic experiences with Sawsan Baluch, owner of Mahonia, Bahrain’s first fine dining degustation restaurant.

Mahonia is the first fine dining degustation restaurant in Bahrain.

Can you explain to us the concept of a degustation restaurant?

Degustation is a French culinary term meaning the sampling of small dishes, in a sequence of several dishes that create a culinary journey. Each dish presented is unlike the one before. The dishes are designed to play with your palette, with different and unique ingredients, textures and cooking techniques all combined in one bite to create the ultimate enjoyment.

What inspired you to bring such a concept to Bahrain?

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I love fine food! When I travel I make a list of restaurants with Michelin star chefs and degustation restaurants that I want to dine at. The food and

experience is utterly amazing and I believe it is something people should try if they have the chance.

So I thought, why not have such a concept in Bahrain?

In my opinion, Bahrain is an excellent destination for such a unique restaurant concept because Bahraini people are fond of travel and are exposed to all types of cuisines. Further, we are close to Saudi Arabia and many of our customers visit over the weekend simply to dine.

What kind of clients is Mahonia aimed at?

Mahonia is for people who love food, respect good ingredients, and are adventurous. Mahonia is also the perfect partner for many companies. We offer a level of service equal to many of the finest restaurants in the world; and as a fine-dining experience Mahonia 01 supports high-level discussions and gives clients truly

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an unforgettable night. Mahonia also appeals to those celebrating a special occasion who simply want to enjoy life and create remarkable and memorable moments.

What is your favourite dish on the menu?

It’s very difficult to say, I love them all! The processes used, the techniques applied, and the ingredients sourced, all contribute to the individuality of each dish.

How often do you change your menu? Does your menu vary seasonally?

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Our menu will change seasonally, and as we progress the Chef may offer signature collections.

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Do you cater to special dietary needs, e.g. vegan or gluten free?

We do cater to vegetarians and gluten free or if someone has an allergy to a dish on the menu, we replace it with something that suits them. At the time of booking we ask our guests to specify this.

Your menu is curated by three times Michelin-starred executive chef, Herve Pronzato. Can you tell us about some of his other iconic projects?

Chef Herve has worked all over the world and has cooked for many celebrities and world leaders including Queen Elizabeth, Brad Pitt, Sting and The Rolling Stones. He worked under the celebrated 3-Michelin star Chef Joel Robuchon, a global culinary

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icon, running his restaurant. He has learned the secrets of molecular gastronomy from the master of molecular cuisine, Chef Heston Blumenthal, and his accomplishments led him to become one of the judges on Top Chef, a hit TV show in Greece.

All your ingredients are sourced abroad or created in-house. How does this affect the taste of the food?

Astronomically, since good food is all about freshness and quality. There are no additives or preservatives in the food we prepare, so you taste the delicate and delicious flavour of the actual ingredients. We pride ourselves on creating and importing the absolute best produce. We even have our own ‘food lab’ for butter, cheeses, meats etc and grow our own microgreens, make our own

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04 Bohemian crystal chandelier 05 The restaurant, daringly exclusive with only 7 tables 06 Imported Norwegian salmon, expertly cut and served fresh with a delicious crispy Salmon skin, homemade tartar, and horseradish sauce topped with homegrown micro greens 07 Chef plates his masterpiece with artistic precision

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08 Perfectly charred leek, slowly burnt, revealing a soft and creamy interior topped with succulent morsels of Alaskan crab, mango, grapefruit, and seaweed served alongside hand crafted crisps

breads and prepare all stocks, consommés and sauces from scratch. Good quality ingredients are evident in the taste.

What is a typical Mahonia experience like? How many hours should someone set aside for the full experience?

Mahonia is a complete journey of all senses: taste, sight, sound, smell. We advise that our customers set aside 2-3 hours for the full experience, depending on whether they have selected the 7- or 16-course degustation menu.

The experience is designed for people who want to savour it, not for people who are rushed and want to eat and leave in a hurry. Overall it is a fun and thrilling experience, and a must for true foodies.

What is your advice for enjoying the meal to its fullest?

Be adventurous and try everything. At the end of the day, the dishes are made from clean, fresh ingredients and prepared by highly experienced, passionate Chefs, who love and respect all kinds of food and cuisine. mahoniabh.com

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June 2018

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Leading the Way

Al Baraka Islamic Bank CEO, Mohamed Al Mutaweh on Islamic financing and Sharia-compliant FinTech solutions.

What have been Al Baraka’s main accomplishments in 2017?

Despite the difficult operational and business environment in 2017, we remained focused on building quality assets. We continued our strategic partnerships with local sovereign agencies and strong relationships in regional markets. More specifically, a strong growth was achieved in corporate portfolio by exploiting our relationships across the region and increasing business volumes with existing quality customers. As for SMEs, fresh facilities were granted under Tamweel program with Tamkeen. In our Pakistan operations, efforts were made to consolidate the substantial growth achieved because of merger and acquisition transaction with another Pakistani bank. We also successfully launched our new Sharia Compliant Credit Card to meet our customer needs and expectations. This product carries unique feature and received a very positive response from the market. In addition, we continued to focus on our main business markets in Bahrain, Pakistan, GCC, and MENA as these markets represent natural extension of the Bank’s strategic positioning.

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What facilities does Al Baraka offer to high net worth individuals and business owners?

Our Retail Banking department provides private banking services that are designed for high net worth individuals and wealthy families.

They provide investment advice and wealth management. Customers can choose from special accounts in different currencies, a diverse portfolio of financing facilities, investment portfolios and fund transfers worldwide, as well as different types of investment saving accounts.

In addition, they can offer a wealth of investment solutions, including structured products and investment funds, and structured products, both tailor-made and standard, to meet the specific requirements of their customers. They also offer advice on philanthropy and charitable activities.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

AI Baraka Islamic Bank was established in 1984, so it has a long experience with local and regional markets based on rich human, financial,

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and technical resources. Moreover, Al Baraka has proven records of success and financial performance. We also continued our efforts in enhancing the assets quality, diversifying income sources, launching new products and services, enlarging income from core businesses and strengthening the organization governance structure. The bank is a part of leading Islamic banking group, Al Baraka Banking group “ABG”, which has banking subsidiaries in 16 countries with strong and solid human, financial and technical resources, as well as wide branch network and rich experience in their local markets.

Bahrain is currently investing a lot in financial technology (FinTech).

What impact do you think FinTech will have on banking in the Kingdom?

Bahrain is fast becoming a recognized global FinTech hub. Earlier last year, the Central Bank of Bahrain launched a regulatory sandbox for FinTech start-ups with the Bahrain Economic Development Board and Singaporean Fintech Consortium, announcing the launch of Bahrain Fintech Bay, the largest dedicated fintech hub in the Middle East and Africa. Al Baraka signed a partnership agreement with BFB, and along with two other banks, established ALGO Bahrain, which is the world’s first fintech consortium with a mandate to accelerate the launch of Sharia compliant FinTech solutions. Eight more banks are expected to join the consortium in Phase 2. ALGO Bahrain is positioned to launch 15 banking industry platforms by 2022 across the GCC and emerging markets.

Through a collaborative approach, ALGO Bahrain will enable Islamic banks to research, innovate and operationalize fintech solutions in a cost effective and accelerated way. It will have complete strategic, operational and financial independence to innovate financial solutions that are suited for the digital economic ecosystem. The ALGO era is set to revive the growth of the global Islamic banking industry by promoting financial inclusion, creating new employment opportunities, and channeling fresh investment to critical economic sectors across the GCC and emerging markets.

Islamic banks are going through a period of decline in asset growth.

What measures has Al Baraka taken against this challenge?

Given the difficult business and economic environment that prevailed in 2017 at both regional and international levels, the bank

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redirected its focus to consolidate operations, activate risk management practices, realign core processes, provide contemporary business solution to customers, enhance quality of services, and develop skill base, all of which provided an essential support in such a testing time. The bank remained strong against the adversities of prevailing operating environment.

Moreover, we were very cautious in booking new business during 2017. Improving the composition of financial position, rationalizing the riskiness of operations, sustaining quality, and controlling cost, remained the utmost priority for the bank during this period. The growth was primarily observed in secured avenues such as sovereign and government guaranteed transactions or facilities collateralized by tangible securities.

The world economy has been experiencing stagnant global trade and general lack of investment.

Has this had a major impact on Bahrain’s banking industry? And has it all been negative or are there improvements as well?

We should note that the main activities of banking industry in Bahrain are focusing on local market, and this industry is one of the main contributors to sustain the growth in this market.

The banks’ financing facilities to local sectors exceeded BD 8.4 billion in 2017, which indicate the size of its contribution to enhancing economic growth. According to EDB’s figures, banking sector’s contribution to GDP is second after oil sector with a 16% share. During 2017, the net profits of commercial banks listed on the Bahrain Bourse reached one billion and 34 million Bahraini dinars, increasing by 8.3% compared to 2016, which is more strong evidence of the improved performance of banking industry in Bahrain.

What kind of social responsibility programs do you currently have for the community?

Al Baraka Islamic Bank is considered a pioneer in Islamic banking. We seek to maintain our position as the leading organization committed to social responsibility. The bank continues performing its social responsibilities by directing its products and services for the development of communities in which it operates to enhance them socially and economically, and to improve the quality of these products and services, as well as through the support of financing of small and

medium enterprises and taking care of youth skills and training them. As well as through its social contributions and generous financial donations to serve community and charitable organizations through sponsorships and donations program to charities and local clubs and scientific and religious centers, in addition to supporting needy families in Bahrain. The bank continues its sponsorship of many important international finance and banking events and conferences that are held in Bahrain such as the World Conference of Islamic Banking and AAOIFI. The bank also employs a number of students who are in the final stages of their undergraduate studies during the summer vacation, as well as fresh graduates with the aim of refining their knowledge, which is considered an important part of the bank’s contributions towards the community.

Are there any local or regional expansion plans for Al Baraka in the near future?

As I referred earlier, we completed successfully in 2016 the merger transaction between the Bank’s operations in Pakistan and another Pakistani bank.

Our focus now is to consolidate this merger and to maximize the benefits from it. Therefore, some 35 branches close to each other were closed, reducing the network to 209 branches.

Actions were taken to streamline product range and activities were progressively moved on to a single core banking system. In Bahrain, the focus was on repositioning our branches in areas or places, where they can serve better larger classes of citizen, businesses and customers. But in terms of products and services, yes we have plans to launch more products and projects such as our partnership agreement with various real estate projects developers, to provide financing facilities to customers wishing to purchase a residential unit in various located real estate projects either through the Social Housing Finance Scheme (SHFS) or the normal deals. The Bank also launched recently Home Remittance Service to Pakistan for its customers in Bahrain. Under the new service, customers who have an account with Al Baraka Islamic Bank in Bahrain will be eligible to transfer funds to customers who have an account with Al Baraka Bank of Pakistan or any other bank in Pakistan. The remittance will be free for customers sending remittance more than PKR 21,000/- to their home country safe, fast and reliable. albaraka.bh

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June 2018

Explore the heritage of sailing with professional ship model maker Carlos Montalvao.

Follow the Sea 01

What inspired you to start making these miniature ship models? How did your interest in ships begin?

My first contact with a ship model was when I was 6 years old and my father took me to the Lisbon Maritime Museum. There had been several sailors in our family and, as I viewed the ship models, I imagined my ancestors on board and they were brought back to life again. It was a magic moment that paved the way for my lifelong love for ships and ship models.

I went to university and pursued a 4-year degree and 2-year post-graduate course in Philosophy, during which time I build ship models as a hobby. After graduating I started working as a professional in academic and science

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administration at the University of Lisbon, and by then my hobby had become a passion. A local maritime museum asked me to build a model of a famous XIX century ship that had wrecked on its shores, which was the first step to start a career as a professional model maker.

In order to enhance my manual skills with maritime and boat building expertise, I went back to university to take a Master’s degree in maritime history and shipbuilding traditions. I also started to lecture, giving training courses on ship modeling and acting as a museum consultant for ship models’ policy and maritime history issues. I was planning my PhD when I was commissioned to build the models which are currently on display at the National Museum of Oman.

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Academics often tend to focus on treatises on naval architecture and stay away from raw materials, tools and workshops. At the same time, many manual workers tend to consider academic analysis to be a waste of time. However, I believe that both aspects have great value, as erudition complements manual and technical skills.

Your models are based on real ships.

Where do you find the information about the ships, such as dimensions and materials used?

The construction process always starts with reading everything available on the vessel or its typology. If there are no plans or other documents available, I study ship building traditions from the place where and the period when the vessel was built.

The Portuguese Caravel and Nau from the XVI were based upon research I conducted for my master thesis about Iberian naval architecture and ship building in the Discoveries. For the XV Chinese junk I had to read everything I could about the traditions of oriental ship construction. There are no technical documents from that period and the model is widely based on what we know about early XIX junks, which were built in the same way as the Ming Dynasty ones. With “Sultanah”, a 14 gun sailing ship from 1833, I was lucky to find a painting and an engraving of her on the Illustrated London News while I was doing research work in the National Maritime Museum library in London. I was also able to find

a technical reference to her tonnage and rigging typology from the ship builder in India.

As for the materials, they are chosen for aesthetic and technical reasons. For multiple reasons (such as the scale of grain size), the chosen woods are not usually of the same kind as the real ship. Instead we choose materials and woods that are precious and stabilized ones, without colour variation or grain. I like to show the junctions between planks as an artistic representation of the art of naval carpenters and I use different tonalities of wood to represent the original colours.

It takes you one year to five years to build a model, which can cost as much as an expensive car.

What makes the process so time consuming?

The budget for a model depends on the time required to complete it, the quality of the tools used and the nobility of the materials.

Even though I’ve used other woods in the past, currently I only work with Swiss steamed pear wood and certified African ebony. I take great care choosing each plank from a wood supplier that specializes in noble woods. Only the best parts of the planks can be used for a model and each piece must be cut to highlight the best of the plank.

Other raw materials used for the model include premium quality brass, bronze and light metals for turned, hand shaped or cast fittings like anchors,

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01 Assembling the model “Sultanah” in the National Museum of Oman 02 Stern gallery. Decoration in pear wood upon ebony. The rudder and the hull under the waterline are coopered according to XIX techniques 03-04 View of the rear part of the vessel. Binnacle for the compass, 12 pounder guns and carriages, steering wheel, mizzen mast, skylight and doors to the stern and quarters galleries 05 Front view of the ship 03

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SPECIAL FEATURE

bells, and cannons as well as cotton or linen for the rigging ropes and sails.

Digital, power and manual tools need to be of very good quality and from the best manufacturers of precision tools, mainly from Germany and Japan.

My workshop is equipped like a lab and enables me to work with wood, metals and tissues in every stage of the manufacturing process.

The ship modelling process is an activity that requires multiple areas of expertise and a special personality and disposition of mind that enables one to spend long hours, days or months on a single task. In case you are not totally satisfied with the results, you must also be able to throw away what you have done and resume it all over again, regardless of the time and money you’ve spent on it.

It took me one and a half years to build the XV Chinese junk and four years to build Sultanah. My next project may be a 3.5m long and 2.5m high 74-gun ship from 1830, which may take more than 6 years to be completed.

What is the most difficult aspect of creating a model?

Carvings and sculptures are the most difficult task in a model because any small error is automatically amplified by scale. This is particularly relevant when you are working with anthropomorphic or natural forms because going out of scale means creating something grotesque.

So far, coppering the hull of “Sultanah” was the most difficult task I’ve done. It took me 6 months of full time work to do it according to the techniques used in the XIX, whereby 1350 small plates of copper were affixed to the hull, one by one, overlapping each other like fish scales.

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Rigging a period ship model is also challenging not only because of the hundreds and hundreds of small items for fixing and working with the ropes that have to be made, but also because the ropes themselves need to be of the same colour, size, direction of twist and number of strands as the original vessel at scale. To be sure that the ropes were of proper form, I had to make them myself, using a process that I developed. Finally, when fixing everything together one must follow the rules defined for each typology of boat by the rigging treatises of the period.

Can you tell us more about your book?

I wrote the book O Xaveco Marroquino/ Le Chébec Marrocain about the model itself, as a step-by-step manual clearly outlining each stage of the ship’s construction, with photographs. It was published by the Portuguese Army and received an award from the Navy Academy—for the Army and the Navy to come together through a book on ship modelling is quite an unusual and interesting situation.

You have stated that ship models are objects of knowledge. In what way do you believe these models can help society understand itself?

Do you take commissions from private collectors, or is all your work targeted at museums?

Some years ago, I built a Morocco Xebec from the XVIII, which was donated by a military institution in Europe to the King of Morocco.

However, most of my work has been commissioned by museums, so I presume my models will be appreciated by future generations, which is a privilege I’m deeply grateful for.

Which is your favorite works you have done so far? What makes iT so special?

I usually say that my favourite work is the one to come, as each model represents a significant challenge in relation to the previous one.

Nevertheless, I must confess I am very fond of “Sultanah”. She spent 4 years on my workbench and even though she has been in the museum for almost a year, I’m still working on her auxiliary boats. We have a long-term relationship and I got used to describing her as “my Sultanah”.

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As a society, we are at risk of losing our memories of our maritime heritage, which is also part of our personal and collective identity.

Ship models built at scale become a miniature representation of a bygone reality, reminding us of the thrill of going far beyond the shores of our imagination.

Bahrain, like Portugal, is a territory closely linked to the sea and for centuries depended on ships and navigation to stand as a nation among other maritime powers. The sea brought us adventure and richness, enabling us to interchange ideas and merchandise worldwide. If we lose contact with the sea and our maritime traditions we will go on living, but our future will have lost the inspiration of the dreams and the courage of our ancestors. To preserve this legacy in terms of maritime heritage, ship models are of great value. carlosmontalvao.blogspot.com

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Ahmed Zayani & Sons W.L.L 131 SHK, Salman Highway, Zinj 358, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain PO. Box 26332.

For more information call +973 17 238190 Or Visit www.ahmedzayani.bentleymotors.com

Ahmed Zayani & Sons W.L.L 131 SHK, Salman Highway, Zinj 358, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain PO. Box 26332.

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JEWELLERY

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June 2018

Distinctive Craftsmanship Van Cleef & Arpels ME & India Managing Director, Alessandro Maffi reveals the secret behind the iconic Alhambra collection’s charm.

Van Cleef & Arpels’ pieces are meticulously detailed. Can you tell us which of its pieces has been the most demanding or extravagant to make whether from Alhambra collection or any other?

In the 1930s, The Duchess of Windsor suggested to Renée Puissant - the Maison’s artistic director and daughter of Alfred Van Cleef - that she should create a piece based on the zip fastener, which was invented in late 19th century America, and was taking the couture world by storm at the time. It took the Maison’s artisans more than 10 years to perfect a fully functioning zipper in precious metals and gems – making of this necklace a feat of high jewelry engineering.

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How do the creations of Alhambra come to life? Can you take us through the creative process?

In keeping with Van Cleef & Arpels’ tradition of excellence, the Alhambra collection embodies all the expertise of a High Jewelry Maison. The varied skills of lapidaries, jewelers, stone-setters and polishers come together to create each piece. Ever inspired by nature, the Maison has sought out the most beautiful materials she has to offer: mother-of-pearl, turquoise, onyx, carnelian, chalcedony, malachite or bois d’amourette (letterwood). Along with diamonds, they have all been chosen according to the very highest standards of quality. During this selection process, only 1% of the material is retained to make up the future Alhambra motifs.

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“The varied skills of lapidaries,

jewelers, stone-setters and polishers come together to create each piece”

01 Van Cleef & Arpels ME & India Managing Director, Alessandro Maffi 02 Vintage Alhambra 5-Motif bracelet, pink gold, gray mother-of-pearl, diamonds 02

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JEWELLERY

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03 Magic Alhambra 2-Motif earrings, pink gold, gray mother-of-pearl, diamonds 04, 05, 06 Vintage Alhambra 20-Motif long necklace pink gold, gray motherof-pearl, diamonds

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Alhambra has been the lucky charm of the Maison since 1968. What do you think gives it such everlasting quality?

Luck is a quality that the Maison holds dear, guiding its footsteps and inspiring some of its most emblematic creations. Throughout the history of Van Cleef & Arpels, four-leaf clovers mingled with wooden talismans, lucky charms and benevolent fairies. In 1968, the Maison created a true icon of luck: Alhambra. The first long necklace was born, combining yellow gold with the pure lines of the Alhambra motif. A symbol of harmony edged with golden pearls, it was an immediate success, and an emblem of Van Cleef & Arpels, that is still in high demand among females of all ages 50 years later.

What qualities do Van Cleef and Arpels creations possess that make them unique?

For over a century, Van Cleef & Arpels has been combining unparalleled craftsmanship, technical prowess and innovation in all its creations. This Savoir-Faire and dedication to achieving nothing but excellence, allowed the Maison to always put the poetic narration and the way the story is told first, and create some of what is considered the most iconic jewelry pieces in the world. vancleefarpels.com

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JEWELLERY

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June 2018

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01 Hab El Hayl cufflinks 02 18 karat yellow gold necklace 03 Rings from Hab El Hayl collection 04 Hab El Hayl bracelets

04

Modern Classic Al Zain Jewellery has launched its new Hab El Hayl collection across its boutiques on the occasion of the upcoming Eid Al Fitr

Inspired and named after the humble cardamom seed, a spice very dear to traditional Bahrain, the collection reintroduces the classic Hab El Hayl in a modern and contemporary design. Cardamom, known for its strong and aromatic scent and flavor, is also said to have healing properties, and has been widely used as a motif in traditional Bahraini jewellery designs.

Hab El Hayl – as it is known in Arabic, serves as the main design inspiration in the 18 Karat yellow gold collection of rings, bangles, necklaces, and cufflinks. Selected pieces

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are embellished with diamonds to create exceptionally beautiful pieces. The most notable piece is n 18 Karat gold ring which has an outer frame which in turn holds a fully rotational Hab El Hayl center ring that spins around the frame symbolizing a prayer ring.

The Hab El Hayl collection is available in all Al Zain boutiques across the GCC in Bahrain, Khobar, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar from late June 2018. alzainjewellery.com

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JEWELLERY

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June 2018

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05 18 karat yellow gold rings 06 A contemporary interpretation of a classic design

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“Hab El Hayl – as it is known in Arabic,

serves as the main design inspiration in the 18 Karat yellow gold collection of rings, bangles, necklaces, and cufflinks.”

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19/06/2018 16:42

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

052

June 2018

Universal Timepieces Omega President and CEO, Raynald Aeschlimann on moon landing, Olympics timekeeping, and James Bond.

Can you tell us a bit about Omega’s participation in Baselworld 2018?

Baselworld is a very busy time for us. It’s also a very important moment in the evolution of Omega because we are launching two collections during this event. One is the very famous Seamaster, which everybody knows. Everyone is inspired by the Seamaster 300m which has been called the James Bond watch because it’s been featured in eight films of the franchise. We are not only creating a new Seamaster, but also bringing a new technology with it. The watch you will buy has been tested by an independent Swiss confederation institute and will be precise, waterproof and anti-magnetic. The 21st century is one where we’re all connected but it also includes a lot of changes. We don’t want Omega to be late to the party. This is why having new technology is important. And the second one is the Tresor, which is a very high-end ladies watch that only comes with diamonds.

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01

In your opinion, what sets Omega apart from other watch brands?

A lot of things! It’s not for nothing that we are leaders in the watchmaking industry. Omega is universal. It’s about aspirations. Every young man wants a Speedmaster, for example. Every young lady wants a Constellation. The DNA of Omega is to have different lines so that the brand would be strong everywhere: our pioneering spirit, quality, value for money, and our ambassadors.

What would you say are the company’s major strengths at this point?

One of our incredible strengths is that we are everywhere in the world. Another strength would be our innovation. We are always creating new technology. We were the first to make the ceramic Dark Side of the Moon watch. This year, we’re introducing a new movement. Everything is new.

The brand also has a current image and products.

01 of these strengths make Omega a trusted band.

All

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01 Omega President and CEO, Raynald Aeschlimann 02 Seamaster 1948 Limited Edition 03 Seamaster Diver 300M Titanium Tantalum Limited Edition

02

What do you like the most about the new Olympic collection?

What I like the most is that it reminds me of the history of our Olympic Collections. It’s not easy for me to talk about the Olympic Games because we are the official timekeepers for the whole equipment. Omega has the spirit of the Olympics. I like all the colors in this new collection, but the red one is my favorite. It shows Omega is not a boring company. We don’t just do black watches!

What has been the most successful watch in Omega’s history so far?

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That’s definitely the Moonwatch. It’s the same Speedmaster that was worn by astronauts on the moon and you can still buy it today. It has been an incredible asset for the brand through the years. It’s very special that you can buy a watch that has been to the moon. And it also has a very strong look.

19/06/2018 16:43

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

054

June 2018

04 Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 05 Seamaster Diver 300 M Co-axial Master Chronomoter 06 Seamaster Diver 300M with steel on blue rubber strap 07 Seamaster Aqua Terra Jewellery

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What challenges is the watch industry facing these days?

We have noticed a drop in participation in Baselworld this year, so it’s important that we talk about what’s facing the industry. I believe that the biggest challenge is arrogance. Sometimes, the ones in Switzerland think they know everything. I think it’s more important to be closer to the consumer.

It’s the same as your magazine. You can’t create it without thinking about who will read it. With Omega, we have the advantage of gaining market share because we are close to the people. We work with them and ensure we remain faithful to them.

They trust us. That arrogance may be the biggest challenge some of our competitors have, but we don’t have it because we know our success depends on the success of our customers.

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“The DNA of Omega is to have

different lines so that the brand would be strong everywhere”

19/06/2018 16:43

Do you prefer the Seamaster or the Speedmaster?

I compare it to having a big family. Having four lines is like having four kids. I love them all!

What should we expect from Omega in the future?

We will continue doing the same things we have done. We will keep using new technology and creating incredible aspiring projects. We plan to form an even closer connection between the brand and our customers, the same as we have done with e-commerce, such as the Speedy Tuesday watch which we sold exclusively on Instagram. This brand is magical. It’s not old-fashioned. It’s future-oriented.

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omegawatches.com

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

056

June 2018

Zenith of Luxury Graff CEO, Nicolas Sestito on how Graff evokes emotions with its timepieces.

01 Graff CEO, Nicolas Sestito

What do you think of Baselworld this year?

watches showcase the finest artisanal savoir-faire alongside cutting-edge Swiss engineering.

Baselworld is always a highlight of the year and it was very successful for us. It is a unique opportunity for us to share our latest creations with our important clients, the press and our wholesale partners.

Does Graff use any technological innovations in its timepieces?

How would you define Graff watches?

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A marriage of Swiss watchmaking and unmistakable design, Graff watches push the boundaries of horology. From our feminine jewellery timepieces to our new métiers d’art dials, our

Innovation is very important to us. At Baselworld this year, we launched a series of MasterGraff Ultra Flat Tourbillon métiers d’art timepieces. The vividly colourful dials were created using a rare technique developed by our artisans called ‘email à froid’. Whereas most enamel dials are baked at a scorching 800°C, these have been heated to a relatively cool 180°C, which gives a remarkably vibrant and glossy finish.

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“Our clients are refined and have refined taste”

02 Graff Floral in blue 03 Graff Floral in white 04 MasterGraff Ultra Flat Tourbillon “Graffiti” 05 MasterGraff Ultra Flat Tourbillon “Dragon” 06 Automotive-inspired GyroGraff Drive

What has been your most successful collection so far?

Our Butterfly collection has been extremely popular. The butterfly is a signature motif of Graff, and this has been reinforced by the ongoing success of our Classic Butterfly, Disco Butterfly and Princess Butterfly timepieces. graffdiamonds.com 02

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

058

June 2018

FOR THE DREAMERS Exploring future ambitions of Corum with CEO, Jerome Biard.

01

Can you tell us a little about Corum’s participation in Baselworld 2018?

01 Corum CEO, Jerome Biard 02 Admiral AC-One 45 Squelette

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Can you tell us a bit about any technological innovations in Corum watches?

We are very happy to show a new face of Corum at Baselworld. We are implementing new strategies to go even higher with the brand. We will put more focus on Golden Bridge, Admiral, and Heritage.

Baselworld is an important time for us as we meet a lot of our friends. We meet about 700 jewellers!

We have been playing with new materials lately.

We are very proud of our accomplishments with the Amidral Bronze, which is sterilized, meaning changing will not allow more oxidation. It gives it this very special color and makes it safe.

What design or functionality features make Corum watches unique?

How would you describe Corum’s performance in the luxury watch market recently?

Our in-line baguette movement is as unique as Golden Bridge. I would say the inline movements are very unique. We play a lot with this aspect, and it allows us to explore the space around it.

Of course, the flags also make it special. To be current and have history at the same time is the DNA of Corum. We work with this outlook in mind.

There aren’t many brands that have such a strong personality and uniqueness.

To be honest, it hasn’t been very easy. We are looking to go back to the position Corum once held when its founders started enjoying success. Today, we are very strong in Hong Kong, Macau, and Asia in general, but there is still a lot of space for improvement in places like the Middle East and the US. We have a lot of homework to do but we believe that we are already on the right track. The brand’s mentality is strong, and we 01 are still creating great collections.

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“Watchmakers have to show their

know-how and produce pieces that are of true quality”

What challenges stand in the face of luxury watchmakers today?

One of the challenges is the ability to produce authentic products at the right price. Watchmakers have to show their know-how and produce pieces that are of true quality. I also think they should be reasonable in the quantity they produce, so it would create rarity and desirability.

How would you describe Corum’s clientele? Who wears Corum?

For Corum, every client is very different. For example, someone who will fall in love with Bubble, might also fall in love with Admiral or Golden Bridge. One thing is for sure, they’re all selfconfident, high-income individuals. They are not followers. They don’t want to be like anyone else.

They want to show their personality through their watch. These are interesting people who have a dream and could make it come true.

Do you have a favorite Corum timepiece?

Even since I was young, I have always loved the Admiral. The one with the thick wood and little flags. I also like Golden Bridge but the Admiral is more my style. It’s a watch you can wear every day, even for evenings it can still be quite elegant.

Are there any future projects you can share with us?

We have many projects coming up. We are going to focus more on the Golden Bridge collection and high jewellery. Expect to see ladies’ watches with more jewels in the future. And expect Corum to go to higher levels! corum-watches.com 02

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WATCHES

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Winning Form

June 2018

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Hublot’s FIFA World Cup watch keeps pace with the matches in real-time.

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For its third participation as a Branded Licensee, Hublot has created the watch that all football fans and Hublot fans have been waiting for! A smart watch that will instantly connect you to every decisive second of the matches being played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. A much-anticipated innovation that could not have been imagined by any other watch brand, given the extent to which Hublot and Football are as one. Not only is the footballing world going to march to the beat of the watchmaker, but now the pulse of the matches will reach its peak on your wrist!

It was a specific need expressed by FIFA, and Hublot brought it to life. Wanting a customised watch for the referees, FIFA asked Hublot to conceive the perfect watch to accompany them on the pitches during the matches. Hublot designed this connected watch, its first, for the footballing universe: The Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. It is a unique edition that is limited to 2018 pieces. It has all the attributes of the iconic Big Bang. Its emblematic architecture cut out of the lightness of titanium, its bezel decorated with 6 H-shaped screws, its Kevlar insert. Even the display

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WATCHES

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June 2018

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01 Usain Bolt, world’s sprint record holder in the 100 metres, 200 metres and 4 x 100 metres relay 02 Hublot Big Bang Referee FIFA World Cup Russia

04 Hublot CEO, Ricardo Guadalupe 05 Jose Mourinho, Manager of football club Manchester United

03 Diego Maradona, Argentinian football legend and manager

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on its analogue mode dial could pass for the same aesthetic as that of the automatic models.

In terms of size, its 49-mm case is what makes the first difference, then its motor, which, for the first time, is driven by technology connected to digital intelligence.

The Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia offers all the usual features of a smart watch, but that’s not where Hublot has applied

its innovation and audacity. It brings together everything that inspires the passion of football lovers. The FIFA World Cup is the Holy Grail of emotions for football fans, and this watch, with its ability to capture each and every one of its moments and turning points, will represent everything desired by football aficionados. hublot.com

“A smart watch that will

instantly connect you to every decisive second of the matches being played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.” 05

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WATCHES - MEN

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Luxury Statements The best and latest from the world of watchmaking for the man of today.

June 2018

Chopard Mille Miglia 2018 Race Edition Chopard has created a special limited, numbered and COSC-certified Mille Miglia 2018 Race Edition.

A 44 mm timepiece forged from a blend of passion, style and precision is taking to the road this year. Be ready at the starting line however, as only 1,000 of them will emerge from the Chopard watchmaking workshops in steel, and just 100 in a version combining 18-carat rose gold and steel. This 44 mm diameter chronograph enables the driver to keep track of time with one eye on the peripheral tachymeter scale, while the other looks out for any pitfalls the road may bring. This paragon of ergonomics highlights the three dashboard-inspired counters and their graduations displaying seconds, minutes and hours.

More than just an instrument, the Mille Miglia 2018 Race Edition is an integral part of the controls for gentlemen drivers. chopard.com

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TAG Heuer Aston Martin Special Edition chronographs The Official Partner, Official Watch Partner and Official Connected Watch Partner of Aston Martin and Aston Martin Racing, TAG Heuer launched two special editions honouring the British luxury brand.

The first model is the prestigious TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre Heuer 01 chronograph. The famous manufacture movement is visible through the dial, which is skeletonised in a hexagonal pattern that recalls the details on the new Vantage, for an exclusive Aston Martin dial. Meanwhile, the sturdy 45 mm solid steel case also presents a design that was specifically developed for this edition, which features lines on the side to evoke speed, the race track and piston. The second model is a TAG Heuer Formula 1 chronograph inspired by Aston Martin Racing. Entirely in steel and measuring 43 mm in diameter, this quartz chronograph features a notched steel bezel and an aluminium ring with a tachymeter scale. The indexes, seconds hand and Aston Martin’s famous winged logo all don Aston Martin Racing’s specific shade of lime essence and stand out against the watch’s black dial to beautiful effect. tagheuer.com

Richard Mille RM 67-02 Thin, lightweight, coloured, elegant, and athletic, the RM 67-02 is the watch for any situation. Breaking with precedent, Richard Mille designed this model so that it can be adapted to various sporting disciplines.

All models preserve the mechanical beauty of the CRMA7 calibre, combining the grade 5 titanium of the baseplate and bridges with the white gold and Carbon TPT® of the variable-geometry rotor, as well as the exceptional finishes. Beyond the comfort of the strap and the resistance of the case milled from TPT® composites, these watches boast aesthetically polished renditions of each sports figure’s flag, easily visible across the hand-painted grade 5 titanium dial.

For superlative wearing enjoyment of the RM 67-02, Richard Mille has equipped these timepieces with their new ‘comfort’ strap. Entirely seamless, the strap is highly elastic, allowing it to perfectly fit the contours of each wrist, adapting to individual morphology. richardmille.com

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WATCHES - MEN

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June 2018

A.Lange & Söhne Saxona Annual Calendar In addition to the time, SAXONIA ANNUAL CALENDAR indicates the date, the month, the day of the week, and the moon phase. The legendary self-winding SAX-0-MAT caliber features Lange’s patented ZERO-RESET function: when the crown is pulled, the movement stops and the seconds hand jumps to the zero position, which makes it easy to accurately set the time. Ample power is delivered by the bi-directionally winding rotor in 21-carat gold.

Its centrifugal mass, made of platinum, adds extra inertia. In this limited edition, the rotor parts around the embossed A. Lange & Söhne logo are black rhodium plated. To bring back the golden appearance, a circular graining is added on top – this has not been done to any Lange rotor before. The classic screw balance oscillates beneath the hand-engraved balance cock, which makes each watch a unique piece of art. alange-soehne.com

Audemars Piguet 1533 Chronograph 1533 stands out from 1532 by the addition of a counter at 12 o’clock, a visible change in the calibre reference which changes from 13VZA (or 13CCV) to 13VZAH (13CCVH), H stands for Hours. So-called “goutte” (drop-shaped) attachments highlight the case’s harmonious curved shape. Like the vast majority of Audemars Piguet’s chronograph pieces from the time, the two pushpieces are almondshaped. It features a highly stylized champagnecoloured dial. The 12 and the hour markers are made from black enamel. The hour, minutes and small second hands are gold, while the chronograph hands are made from blued steel. audemarspiguet.com

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Ulysse Nardin Freak Vision Coral Bay Named after the famous snorkeling reef of Coral Bay in Western Australia, the two Freak Vi-sion Coral Bay timepieces showcase an exciting new decorative bonding technique and the meticulous micropainting for which Ulysse Nardin has long been Haute Horlogerie’s acknowledged master. the Freak Vision contains a host of horological gamechangers: a super-light silicium balance wheel with nickel mass elements and stabilizing micro-blades and a super-thin new case design made even thinner by a box-domed crystal. The Freak Vision Coral Bay stands out for its use of bonding, which is an electronics technique that uses thousands of 24 carat gold threads to create painstakingly delicate patterns, and for its miniature painting technique, using red and white acrylic painting on the spring barrel bridge on a CVD blue surface treatment. ulysse-nardin.com

Breitling Navitimer 8 The 8 in its name is a nod to the Huit Aviation Department, which was set up in 1938 to produce cockpit instruments as well as classic pilot’s watches for civilian and military use. At the time, Willy Breitling chose the name “Huit,” the French word for “eight,” as a reference to the eight-day power reserve offered by its storied cockpit instruments. The Navitimer 8 family introduces five distinct models that are worthy heirs to watchmaking’s richest aviation tradition: The B01 Chronograph 43, the B35 Automatic Unitime 43, the Chronograph 43, the Automatic Day & Date 41, and the Automatic 41. All models drawi heavily on Breitling’s design DNA and the technical features of the first board clocks and pilot’s wristwatches, as well as on the Huit Aviation Department’s commitment to quality breitling.com

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WATCHES - WOMEN

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June 2018

Feminine Charm The latest iconic and feminine timepieces for the elegant, refined woman of today.

Bovet 1822 Tourbillon collection Ensuring peerless regularity in timekeeping, the tourbillon offers choreographed perfection. The expert hands of BOVET’s artisans elevate these tourbillon timepieces into works of art in which substance, form, and culture intersect. BOVET tourbillons take on two different forms, representing two methods of manufacture. The first is the traditional tourbillon, with the carriage held at each extremity by a single bridge. The second is a patented construction for a flying tourbillon. The tourbillon excels only when conceived, manufactured, decorated, assembled, adjusted and integrated into a caliber with utmost care. For BOVET, the sum of this expertise rests upon individual mastery of every step of watchmaking from the first to the last, and upon a vision conceived

by Pascal Raffy to make every BOVET tourbillon a watchmaker’s work of art. bovet.com

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Corum Romvlvs Corum has listened to collectors and is bringing back Romvlvs, it’s most Italian of creations, in a very limited edition. The Romvlvs 44 Annual Calendar keeps its Italian lightness. Refreshing, it refuses to be boxed into a category, swinging from classical to provocative, from sporty to glamour chic. Playful and imbued with la dolce vita, it seamlessly blends the refinement of pink gold with a lively and feisty green.

Of classical allegiance, it can’t resist the charms of a modern rubber bracelet. While its dial appears traditional, it is in fact a smoky quartz sapphire whose transparency, like a mischievous veil, reveals the mechanical caliber. corum-watches.com

Hermes Slim d’Hermès GMT The Slim d’Hermès line embodies essentials: simplicity imbued with rigorous discipline and aesthetic balance.

Made from palladium, a rare and light platinum-group metal, the GMT version becomes the ideal companion for today’s globetrotter. Its ultra-thin 9.48 mm thick case reveals its pure display beneath an enigmatic smoked crystal veil. The broad slate grey dial with its distinctive font – slim numerals with spaces between them – is adorned with subtle finishing that accentuates its intensity. A sunburst chapter ring, guilloché centre and date counter, along with a silver-toned GMT counter studded with numerals punctuate this perfectly legible Manufacture dial swept over by slender sandblasted or blue lacquered baton-type hands. hermes.com

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WATCHES - WOMEN

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June 2018

Chopard L’Heure du diamant opal The Chopard L’Heure du diamant collection revives a sense of elegant nostalgia by borrowing its oval case from the 1970s style repertoire. The latter source of inspiration exerts a powerful influence on fashion in general and watchmaking in particular, honouring timeless femininity through delightfully light and trim designs. A model with a small round case completes this L’Heure du diamant trilogy, celebrating the perfect proportions of a classic archetype. On all three models, the bezel is entirely paved with brilliant-cut diamonds. The most precious version extends its dazzling diamond setting along the bracelet, enhanced by two larger diamonds placed at 6 and 12 o’clock on the bezel. chopard.com

Saint Honore Opéra With a subtle burst of floral splendour, Opéra strengthens its power of seduction in a collection which exudes all its natural glamour. With floral inspiration, the watch’s intriguing harmonious composition plays on the contrasts between lightness and design. The finely crafted openwork satin dial reveals silvery petals set with eight diamond hour-markers.

The distinctive opening for the date and the openwork hands enhance the delicate yet graphic character of the watch. The stylish round box adds to its softness, and is highlighted with a black onyx on the crown. With its particularly intelligent interchangeable bracelet design, the Opéra watch can take on a new look to suit your mood, from a wide range of materials and colours. sainthonore.com

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Carl F. Bucherer Adamavi With its timeless design, the Adamavi collection exhibits a unique philosophy: striving to preserve things of a proven value. This principle is embodied by the classic appearance of the Adamavi family.

These watches stand out thanks to their simple, timeless design. Powered by reliable high-quality movements, the value of these timepieces is clear to see, even after many years. This successful and enduring collection is expanding with a total of nine new models, all equipped with mechanical movements. Thanks to their understated design, the watches from the Adamavi family can be worn on any occasion. The versatility of this collection is further underlined by the fact that the Adamavi is available in three different sizes with differently designed dials and a wide variety of straps. carl-f-bucherer.com

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Lady Calibre 9 Automatic In 1892, Edouard Heuer filed the first patent for a watertight case in the history of watchmaking. It was an immediate success. Since that time, the Aquaracer (a collection created in 2003) has continued to evolve, becoming a sports watch beloved by men and women in equal measure. This year, TAG Heuer launched a new women’s version equipped with a Calibre 9 automatic movement. Water resistant to 300 metres, this sporty watch displays the iconic codes of the Aquaracer collection. It has a 12-sided unidirectional rotating bezel featuring 6 polished lugs, and hands and indices covered with white SuperLuminova™ for enhanced visibility and optimal legibility in deep water. New features on this version include the striated dial, the date window with magnifier and the second hand with arrow. It also boasts the distinctive technical characteristics of the Aquaracer Automatic collection. tagheuer.com

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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June 2018

01

19/06/2018 16:52

Reimagining Perfumery Creative Director Christopher Chong is reinventing international luxury fragrance brand Amouage.

01 Amouage Creative Director, Christopher Chong 02 Figment Web Bottles Combined

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When was the defining moment for you that you knew your passion lies in perfumes?

A lot of things happen to us by chance. You could spend your entire life preparing to embark on a certain career and it ends up being nothing but just a dream. The time in my life that I dedicated to opera was exactly that, and an opportunity with Amouage just happened to come along by chance. Although my background is in music and fashion, I feel strongly that the world of perfume is where I was destined to be and that everything I did before prepared me for this moment, my work with Amouage. Creativity in all its forms has always been intensely fascinating to me, even when I was a child. Art, music, theatre and fragrance – they are all processes in which the intangible is made tangible. Whereas previously I expressed my creativity thorough song, now I share it through the artistry of perfume making. If you think about it, composing an aria is not at all dissimilar to creating scent. Both translate mood, memories and thought into a form that is larger than life.

Who were your influences from the perfume world that shaped your taste and style? Is there one fragrance that has stayed in your memory for the longest of time?

I have always been fascinated with perfumes from the early half of the 20th century. I believe that was the Golden Age of fine perfumery. I adore the classics like Caron’s Tabac Blond, En Avion and Guerlain’s Jicky. Maybe with some luck my creations will be considered as classics in the future.

Where do you find inspiration? And do you need to be inspired before creating or do you feel the nature of your role in the company means action must come before inspiration?

I certainly don’t go looking for inspiration. I find it comes in a moment, sneaks up unexpectedly. It can be triggered by almost anything – the lilt in a soprano’s phrasing, a half-heard whisper, a fleeting glance, a feeling from long ago, a fragment of a dream. Once inspiration takes hold and begins to

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

074

June 2018

“Creativity in all its forms has

always been intensely fascinating to me, even when I was a child ”

flow though, I’m carried me away on a whirlwind of creativity and a torrent of emotion, blending and distilling thoughts, images, colours, sensations, sounds. Then, voilà. The concept is there and the story for the next fragrance is revealed.

How would you define Amouage? And what do you believe sets it apart from the competition?

Honesty. Integrity. Creativity. That’s Amouage.

What makes our brand distinctive is our creative integrity. Because we are not limited to making perfumes that are on trend, we get to experiment with ingredients and our sole focus throughout the development process is on making beautiful and unique fragrances. Our customers are drawn to the brand for this reason. We tell a different story and our narratives link the fragrances in a nonlinear way to one another, giving the brand a chance to build a deeper, more memorable connection with customers.

In your 10 years as Creative Director of Amouage, what have you found to be the most challenging aspect?

The greatest challenge for me is trying to create something different and distinct every year – but I relish this and revel in experimenting with the olfactive palette, exploring the outer reaches of my creativity and fantasy. And I do think my understanding of musical phrasing has given me an extra advantage in creating perfumes that are unique and different from one another.

Your latest creation is titled ‘Figment’. Can you tell us a little about it and what the name represents?

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The latest fragrance, Figment, quite literally represents a ‘figment’ of my imagination. It’s an expression of the Bhutan of my imagination.

Neither fantasy nor reality, it is an olfactory hologram, composed of the fragments that make up the intense beauty of life. This fragrance manifested itself in my imagination as the most perfect opera, viewed across space and time through antique enamelled opera glasses. It comes to life for me on a stage adorned with a profusion of silk threaded floral embroideries that gradually transform into a delicate divine garden.

something unusual and different, and who appreciate true mastery in perfume creation. I think the Middle East is a great market for us because people here are exactly that – confident and daring.

They know what they like, and they’re not afraid to stand out. Aside from that, in the Middle East, fragrance isn’t just for vanity. It’s actually deeply engrained in the Middle Eastern culture, with many meanings, metaphors, and uses for different scents.

What has been your proudest achievement to date in Amouage?

Absolutely. I actually think these long established cities are starting to rival the GCC! The fact that many prominent perfume brands are catering specifically to this region says something about the Middle East.

After ten years of designing fine fragrances and promoting Amouage I believe my proudest achievement is I am still here and doing what I love. I have seen competitive brands come and go. The perfume industry has changed a lot during this period and there has been many challenges, but I still feel fresh with each new creation. I am just happy that the buzz, energy and excitement are still the same as the first day I entered the perfume industry.

How would you compare GCC perfume markets with those of New York and London?

There is a rising trend in perfumes created to target this part of the world but as a global brand, we have never placed too much importance or focus on one cultural identity and are more about luxury rather than cultural specificity. Our fragrances are enjoyed by sophisticated, confident and internationally aware customers who are not afraid to stand out from the crowd by wearing

Can GCC rival such long established international cities?

What would it take?

How would you describe the person that Amouage perfumes are made for?

Sophisticated. Confident. Daring.

How do you see the future of the perfume industry? Do you predict a certain trend to take over soon?

We tend not to follow the global trend. Our brand DNA is about creating something different and unique rather than trailing behind a trend. Our customers are drawn to Amouage because they understand and appreciate the fine art of perfumery and thus they come to us for scents that have a philosophical air to them. It is about a way of life that is beyond convention. amouage.com

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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Niche Aroma Escentric Molecules represents fragrance at its most minimal, its most purist.

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Its fragrances are launched in binary pairs that focus on a specific aromachemical. The Escentric fragrance in each pair refracts the aromachemical through the prism of other ingredients. The molecule fragrance in each pair contains nothing but the aromachemical.

Escentric Molecules 01 celebrates the hyperabstraction of Iso E Super, which is a molecule that hovers close to the skin to create an indefinable aura round the wearer. Escentric Molecules 02 celebrates the sensual resonance of nature-identical Ambroxan, and Escentric Molecules 03 celebrates Vetiveryl Acetate, part-natural root and part-

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synthetic. Escentric and Molecule EDTs are designed to be worn by men and women, and are available in 100ml and 30ml travel size.

Escentric Molecules also offers Body Washes that create a super-luxurious showering experience thanks to an unusually high percentage of fragrance in every bottle. While the fragrance-rich foam revitalises the mind, gentle cleansers leave the body vibrant and fresh, and plant-based moisturisers condition and hydrate skin and hair. Packaged in sleek, squeezable bottles designed for ease of use. escentric.com

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“Escentric Molecules also offers Body

Washes that create a super-luxurious showering experience thanks to an unusually high percentage of fragrance in every bottle.”

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FRAGRANCES - MEN

Fresh and bold

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The latest and most elegant eyewear for discerning men and women.

Bentley Momentum Unlimited This new fragrance reflects its wearer’s vision and expresses his personality. Crafted by Michel Almairac as a fresh interpretation of the Momentum line, this scent opens with a fruity burst of bracing grapefruit and tart green apple, boosted by the citrusy brightness of cardamom.

The heart notes of wood and leather are inspired by the luxurious interior of Bentley models.

Cedarwood, vetiver and sandalwood, enhance the rich texture of the leather note, and in the drydown, the scent lands in a trail of skin musks and ambroxan. The fragrance is presented in a monolithic black bottle, which is decorated in the style of the marque’s signature knurling. bentley-fragrances

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Trussardi Riflesso Designed for the man who never rests on his laurels, Trussardi Riflesso is a woody-Oriental composition. The head notes of bergamot, pink grapefruit, and green apple create a citrusy Italian cocktail, which is complimented by a floral heart comprised of Geranium, Violet Leaves, and Lavender Flowers. The base notes of Italian leather, vetiver, and, Tonka bean give the scent a warm, masculine essence. Created by Véronique Nyberg, a nose internationally known for her creative approach, this fragrance is the result of an encounter between contrasting elements. trussardi.com

Burberry Mr. Burberry Eau De Parfum Inspired by the iconic Burberry trench coat and the city of London, this is warm and woody fragrance encapsulates today’s Burberry man.

Created by Chief Creative and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Bailey, in collaboration with perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, it is a more sensual interpretation of the Eau de Toilette. Aromatic top notes of tarragon and spicy cinnamon, are layered on rich patchouli with a dense, woody base of amber and smokey vetiver. The bottle’s design reflects the signature style of the coat on which it is based. Customers can personalise their bottle with up to three initials through a monogramming service available on burberry.com and selected Burberry and wholesale stores. burberry.com

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FRAGRANCES - MEN

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June 2018

Boss The Scent Parfum Edition for Him This seductive new scent is a darker and more powerful interpretation of the original. With top notes of ginger, heart notes of maninka fruit and orris concrete, and a base of leather and patchouli, the scent is masculine and seductive. The orris concrete adds a rich elegance that fuses the notes together while the leather an patchouli create an intense and smoky woodiness. The bottle design epitomises elegance with its distinctive shape and modern black matte finish. It is presented in textured black box that features the scent’s silhouette, embossed with a silver logo. hugoboss.com

Sacoor Brothers Gentlemen The Sacoor Brothers marks its first foray into the world of fine fragrances with this signature scent, which took two years to develop. With its masculine style and design, Gentleman pays tribute to sophisticated style, urbanism, and modernity. Master perfumers crafted the Eau De Parfum using a contemporary oriental fougere of fresh mandarin, a spicy touch of cardamom, and a harmony of geranium, rose, and orange blossom.

Its woody base blends cinnamon and leather to round off the one-of-a-kind scent. The bottle and packaging reflect the quintessential style that Sacoor Brothers is known for. sacoorbrothers.com

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Issey Miyake L’Eau D’Issey Pour Homme or Encens This warm and luminous scent is created around the sensual note of incense with an aromatic blend of citrus, spices, and woods. The Orient-inspired, masculine fragrance is the latest incarnation of Issey Miyake’s popular L’Eau d’Issey pour Homme range and follows 2016’s successful L’Eau d’Issey pour Homme Noir Ambré. Perfumer Christophe Raynaud crafted the scent to reflect the meeting of gold-infused water with molten roc. isseymiyakeparfums.com

Chanel Bleu De Chanel Eau De Parfum This woody, aromatic fragrance reveals the spirit of a man who chooses his own destiny with independence and determination. Ambery dry cedar notes immediately follow a fresh citrus accord and woods are amplified by Tonka bean and vanilla. New Caledonian sandalwood unfolds at the base, giving the scent greater depth.

Housed in an enigmatic blue bottle, the Eau de Parfum comes in a spray for easy application. chanel.com

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FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

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Alluring Fragrances An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement.

For women.

Giorgio Armani Sì Passione Sì Passione is a modern, feminine, and sophisticated scent for women who dare to say yes. This reinterpretation of the original fragrance opens with spicy pink pepper, like a burst of adrenaline.

It combines intense vanilla with the blooms of rose, heliotrope, and jasmine to create a sensual, fruity floral scent that reflects the simultaneous delicacy and strength of femininity. At its heart are cedarwood and an ambery-woody Orcanox, which give it a sense of maturity and character.

After more than 100 tests, Giorgio Armani perfected the vibrant red lacquered bottle, which encapsulates the essence of the fragrance. armanibeauty-me.com

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Boss The Scent Parfum Edition for Her This seductive new fragrance is a darker and more powerful interpretation of the original scent.

It opens with fruity notes of honeyed peach, which are complimented by a deep core driven by osmanthus absolute, a rare raw material that showcases the hidden dark side of the osmanthus flower. Meanwhile, cistus absolute enhances the roasted cocoa at the base, providing a balsamic edge that exudes a warm elegance. The bottle features sleek lines that flow upwards in a diamond shape and the topper displays a feminine twist on the iconic BOSS cufflink. It is presented in textured black box that features the scent’s silhouette, embossed with a gold logo. hugoboss.com

Bvlgari Omnia Pink Sapphire Eau De Toilette Spray Effervescent and floral, this daring Eau de Toilette opens with sparkling citrus and pink pepper notes.

It takes the wearer on an olfactory journey to Tahiti and Polynesia, and explores velvety frangipani and wild tiara flowers, which form the heart of the fragrance. The scent is wrapped up in white musks and anchored by notes of multi-faceted, vibrant wood. The beauty of the coveted pink sapphire stone inspires the bottle’s unique design. bulgari.com

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FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

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June 2018

Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum Légère This scent represents strong women and reinterprets the essence of the modern femme fatale. Lighter and softer than the original fragrance, it uses Jasmine Sambac Imperial – a soft flower known for its exquisite high quality.

A more sophisticated Tonka is combined with creamy woods and the velvety aroma of Dulce de Leche to round off the scent. The blacklacquered bottle has been reimagined but is still instantly regonisable thanks to the haute-couture gold stiletto heel. The bottle gradates from a clear, transparent base to a midnight-blue crown, representing the transition from day to night and from good to bad. The complex internal pressure system that allows the spray to be diffused took four years and 600 tests to perfect. carolinaherrera.com

Valentino Donna Rosa Verde This fresh and light fragrance from Valentino Parfums traces a lineage that began with Valentino Donna and Valentino Uomo.

Profoundly Italian with precisely chosen ingredients, the classic scents were crafted to celebrate individuality, emotional beauty, and elegance. This latest offering follows suit and is composed with notes of green rose, mate tea, bergamot, ginger, and magnolia. Perfumer Sonia Constant crafted the scent around the idea of a lush green garden in an Italian palace. The fragrance is presented in an iconic studded glass bottle, a symbol synonymous with other Valentino scents, and the rock studs in the corners of the golden nameplate further reflect the brand’s heritage. valentino.com

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Yves Sain Laurent Mon Paris Couture Eau De Parfum This latest olfactory exploration of love from the creators of the Mon Paris trilogy – Dora Baghriche, Olivier Cresp, and Harry Fremont – builds on the original fragrance and takes it to new heights.

The scent, which is inspired by the city of Paris, opens with the familiar hit of bergamot, grapefruit, and raspberry but differentiates itself with lychee and mandarin notes. Heady datura flower, white peony, and orange flower are infused with rose and anchored by blend of woody and sensual notes. Patchouli from Guatemala is combined with ambrox and white musk, and notes of cashmeran are coupled with a unique accord of cream. The result is a daring and distinctive fragrance that is as vibrant as the city on which it is based. yslbeauty.com

Ex Nihilo Sublime Essences To mark the one-year anniversary of its US debut, EX NIHILO has unveiled SUBLIMES ESSENCES perfumed oils, a new concept of fragrance personalisation. It is a contemporary interpretation of layering, a gesture of perfuming first developed in the Middle East where fragrances are superimposed for a unique result. The two SUBLIMES ESSENCES perfumed oils allow the wearer to create a signature scent and boost a perfume’s silage. For a perfect match, apply a few drops of on pulse points before spraying one of the complementary EX NIHILO fragrances.

The perfumed oils are composed of the finest raw materials and have been carefully selected to create an intense and luxurious result. The SUBLIMES ESSENCES personalisation oils are packaged in the BABYLONE box, inspired by the EX NIHILO Made With Love jewellry box. ex-nihilo-paris.com

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BAGS

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June 2018

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

Tresor de la Mer Icon Bag, Versace This iconic Versace bag is crafted in supple leather and features the legendary Versace Trésor de la Mer print designed by Gianni Versace for his SS’92 collection. This timeless shoulder bag features a flap-over closure with round Medusa medallion lock closure. The Tribute gold chain shoulder strap crafted with the Greek Key motif is plated in gold alloy. Supple leather interior lining and external pockets add elegance and versatility to this one-ofa-kind style. www.versace.com

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Serpenti Forever, Bulgari Bulgari’s flap cover bag “Serpenti Forever” is made of calfskin in silver, antique bronze, brushed metallic, and black stripes. Brass light gold plated hardware finish the look, with the signature snake head closure in black and white enamel and black onyx eyes. The top handle features three gussets with adjustable removable snake body shaped chain and leather strap for versatility of use.

Bulgari.com

Lady Dior Bag with Niki de Saint Phalle Embroidery The classic Lady Dior bag in black smooth calfskin is embroidered with Niki de Saint Phalle beads and threads and jewellery in light gold-tone metal for a contemporary and stylish look. The artwork is based on the iconic Niki de Saint Phalle – Bonn poster, whose copyright belongs to the Niki Charitable Art Foundation. The narrow adjustable shoulder strap allows the bag to be carried in the hand, on the shoulder, or across the body, for the perfect accessory to any outfit.

Dior.com

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BAGS

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June 2018

Pénélope, Longchamp The beloved Pénélope tote is back in two brand new avatars in honour of summertime. Think urban safari with the khaki version’s exotic embossed python scale pattern, or lazily lounge around the city or at the beach with the honey-hued faux basket weave tote. Both feature the same ultrasoft supple cowhide, lucky charm and tassels, plus the signature gold trim from this line known for subtle luxury and modern urban chic. longchamp.com

Medium Roy Bag, Chloé Roy is an elegant everyday bag featuring a gusset construction secured by piercing oversized rings in Chloé’s signature “O” shape. True to the Maison’s play on masculine and feminine notes, sharp lines and a strong structure are softened by refined details, such as the Chloé embossed logo and golden studs. This medium version is crafted from smooth and suede calfskin for luxurious textural contrast. A short black leather strap and removable tonal leather strap mean you can carry Roy any which way.

Chloe.com

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Ophidia Embroidered Medium Shoulder Bag, Gucci Crafted in suede with inlaid web stripe detail and black patent leather trim, this chain strap shoulder bag boasts a vintage inspired design. Expertly embroidered

by Italian artisans, the dragon motif extends across the front of the bag, speaking to the world of mystical and magical beings that now inhabit the world of Gucci. For a final touch of luxury, the edges are hand painted and the two interior compartments are silk lined.

Gucci.com

Essential Boston Bag in Floral Print, MCM With an elegant shape inspired by a classic weekender, the Boston is your take-everywhere bag. A fresh and feminine take on an archive style, this piece is expertly crafted from Visetos coated canvas and printed with this season’s vivid floral motif. Signature details include a chic leather-covered hangtag and protective feet at the base to help preserve the bag’s pristine condition. Carry it either by its delicately hand-wrapped handles or over the shoulder using its detachable strap. http://us.mcmworldwide.com

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SHOES

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June 2018

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

Versace Icon Leather Pumps These pointed leather pumps crafted in supple calf leather stand out with the round Medusa medallion hardware on the front with guilloche metal detailing. This style from the special collection honouring Gianni Versace features a ‘Versace Tribute’ label. versace.com

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Gucci Patent Leather Pump This patent leather pump is designed with a rounded toe and back detail that extends up past the ankle, ending in an adjustable ankle strap with crystal buckle closure, and features a 4-inch heel. The blue rosebud printed lining and sole are distinctive to the Spring Summer 2018 collection. gucci.com

Christian Louboutin Twistissima Strass Christian Louboutin Twistissima Strass shoe showcases the foot’s elegant curves with its lowcut vamp and receded heel detail. In version vintage rose patent and mesh with a crystal dégradé at the pointed toe, this 100mm crossstrap pump is a ravishing shoe for an elegant evening. christianlouboutin.com

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SHOES

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June 2018

Dior D-Choc High Heeled Shoe in Black Mesh This stylish shoe in black mesh and suede calfskin adds a touch of understated elegance to any outfit, and features a 90mm ‘choc’ heel, one of Christian Dior’s favourite heels. dior.com

Dolce & Gabbana Sandal in Soft Lurex and Modoré Nappa Leather with Sculpted Heel The 105mm handmade sculpted heel is the most eye-catching feature of this stunning shoe from Dolce&Gabbana. The upper is made of soft lurex with mordoré nappa leather trip and the ankle strap is fastened with a heart jewel buckle in antique galvanized gold and crystals. dolcegabbana.com

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Manolo Blahnik saka Sandals Delicate crystal stars adorn the ankle of this barely-there sandal in black satin for a flirtatious evening look. The shoe features a 105mm stiletto heel, leather sole, and kid leather lining. manoloblahnik.com

Jimmy Choo Romy 100 The classic Romy heel gets a contemporary update in rosewater mix diamond perforated nappa and patent mix. Leather lined with a leather sole, the 100mm heel height creates a leg-lengthening effect and lets you take centre stage at your next party event in these head-turning heels. row.jimmychoo.com

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EYEWEAR

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June 2018

Specs Appeal The latest and most elegant eyewear for discerning men and women.

Tom Ford Autumn/ Winter 2018-2019 Eyewear Collection Large shapes and extra thick rims, particularly in the lower front, feature prominently in this striking collection of vintage-inspired sunglasses and eyeglasses. Infinity, one of Tom Ford’s most iconic symbols, is reproduced throughout the collection in a flat metal version to celebrate feminine strength and sensuality. Minimalism is combined with dynamic details, which are enhanced through the use of thin acetates and sophisticated side and front spoilers. The collection is available at Tom Ford boutiques and major outlets across the region. tomford.com

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EYEWEAR

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June 2018

Ermenegildo Zegna Autumn/Winter 20182019 Eyewear Collection Italian eyewear powerhouse Marcolin Group and luxury fashion company Ermenegildo Zegna Group have unveiled a new collection for sophisticated and stylish men. It revolves around four concepts that bridge the gap between fashion and functionality.

The first concept is the ‘Chevron’, which is based on the texture of Zegna fabrics and reinterpreted with personalised pins on the front frame and metal temples. The second is the ‘Shape’, which traces the outline of all the models and plays on the use of well-defined angles and large volumes. The third concept is ‘Vicuña’, the colour used on the metal bridges or temples of all the models. Finally, the ‘Touch’, which uses saffian effect leather or a scratched look on the end pieces, creates a sophisticated tactile effect.

The sunglass and optical collections feature a simple, straight-line design and are constructed with aesthetic and technical details, which strengthen and individualise their identity. They are available from select retailers across the region. zegna.com

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Roberto Cavalli Autumn/Winter 20182019 Eyewear Collection This chic range of sunglasses and eyeglasses is designed for modern, alluring, feminine, and dynamic women. The collection’s inspiration comes from four main concepts, the first of which is circles. The brand’s logo in the temples and mirror lenses brings a modern accent to the shapes, while the slim, bevelled profiles add a touch of lightness.

The second concept is a ‘50s-inspired look with substantial profiles, transparent colours, and crystals on the frame fronts. The last two concepts incorporate snake and butterfly-shaped detailing.

The snake is interpreted in various forms and can be found on the temples and on the bridges of the frames, making the models even more distinctive.

The butterfly models are embellished with handapplied crystals and represent the more luxe side of the maison. The collection is available at Roberto Cavalli boutiques and all major retailers across the region. robertocavalli.com/

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EYEWEAR

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June 2018

GUESS Autumn/Winter 20182019 Eyewear Collection This new collection of sunglasses and eyeglasses, for men and women, celebrates femininity with a touch of fun. Classic frames are revisited and revamped by incorporating bold ideas and innovative new designs. Subtly logoed, easyto-wear styles alternate with distinctive designs that feature the logo more prominently. Eyecatching patterns and animal prints complement the collection, which is inspired by 1950’s shapes, reworked in a modern way.

Metal is used as a diagonal contrasting element in the acetate of the temples and sparkling glitter is featured tastefully to brighten the entire look. Gradient lenses in different rainbow hues complement the frames and feature small rock & roll inspired studs and crystal hearts, which give the range a punk-inspired look. The new collection is available at Guess boutiques and select eyewear stores across the region. guess.com

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FASHION

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June 2018

Delicately Nuanced Massimo Dutti’s new Ramadan collection is an outburst of typically summery colors, corals and golds, feature on Lurex jacquard fabrics, shiny satins and items of jewellery.

Modern designs that don’t lose sight of trends such as frills on distinguished pieces like a white silk top, a cotton blouse with turquoise stripes and, even more clearly, on a turquoise bare-shoulder dress, presented with a very special jewellery belt; the key feature of the new collection.

The coral prints play a central role in the collection. The most exclusive pieces, inspired by life on the seabed, are laden with nuances.

One of the main looks of the collection is a caftan/dress with a delicate coral print in nuances of turquoise and on top a stripy jacquard. Other outstanding pieces include a long skirt and a short caftan, also featuring coral patterns on a white background, which can be worn as a total look on

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FASHION 04

an elegant occasion, or separately, with white jeans or with a top, for a more relaxed look.

The Ramadan collection also includes a selection of exclusive accessories, such as shiny satin-finish mules in two colors: gold and emerald green, boasting jewel embellishments, in line with the collection’s theme. Both options are the epitome of glamour for this festive time of the year.

Bags also play an important part in the Ramadan accessory collection. The most outstanding items include a small coral leather bag,

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perfect during the day, boasting a clasic design and a gold chain strap; and a leather clutch, ideal for the evening.

All pieces in the Ramadan collection are designed to be worn as total looks. And the way they can be combined has been carefully studied

by Massimo Dutti’s team of designers and will be presented in its stores as well as in the Ramadan Special Lookbook. massimodutti.com

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FASHION

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June 2018

Digital Couture The Lanvin 2018 fall-winter collection wakes up winter and gives new radiance to “urban evenings”, taking inspiration from the connected energy of today’s women.

As a tribute to neo-modernity, “digital art” by artist Krista Kim enters the world of this ultracontemporary wardrobe. The artist’s work, re-visited

by Olivier Lapidus on several pieces in the collection – folds, prints or accessories -, are a magnificent ode to colour. Dark hues suddenly become radiant, pinks turn to greens and then blues in shading of rare intensity, as if from a world that is yet unknown.

Silk and organza, wool and cashmere, fabrics are an avalanche of softness, emphasizing contrast with the designer’s avant-garde approach. In amazing combinations, the designer places the roughness of street-wear alongside the timeless elegance of evening wear, confronting the fluidity of long dresses with big volume knitwear and oversized down jackets.

There’s a hint of well-controlled craziness in this collection with its sprinkling of technoid effects, which calls for an unusual creative mix.

Mid-way between the delicate, legendary art of couture workshops and the desire for modernity, the Lanvin fall winter 2018 woman is cosmopolitan, chic, and nomadic. lanvin.com

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FASHION

The strongest points in this collection included fluttery scarf-hem dresses, some with the moody Murano blues and burgundies, others with signature Cavalli animal prints. Outerwear, too, delivered some drama in the form of a long tuxedo jacket with slashed sides, the snazzy boleros and a black and bright blue zebra print men’s coat.

The collection also included peek-a-boo cutouts on eveningwear, thigh-high slits on skirts and a see-through dress layered over black lingerie.

Roberto Cavalli’s signatures were sometimes

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present in this collection, notably its animal prints and flouncy bohemian dresses.

Other notable choices included silk dresses with handkerchief hemlines, leopard-print jumpsuits in greige tones, menswear jackets that had been reworked as frocks, and embellished denim, all in slightly toned-down fashion.

The collection evokes a sense of glamor as confidence, juxtaposing it with comfort to convey how you’re only comfortable if you’re confident. robertocavalli.com

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Glam Wear Glamour is the theme for Roberto Cavalli’s Fall 2018 collection.

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Laid-back jackets feature in the collection, as well as trenches, shirts, shorts and trousers, the luxe sweatshirt. It evokes barefoot glamour for evening, with fractional layering, and catching the breeze with chiffon, linen gauze and georgette, scarf skirts and dresses, the streamer shirt and poet’s blouse. Tints of rosewater, wisteria and cornflower, a mix of blues from surf and maritime to water, crisp tones of black and white, earthy shades of sand, pearl and smoke play off of peanut and acorn, artisanal

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detailing, hand-weaving, tie dye and dimensional embroidery, painterly takes on tropical palms, the oversized shoulder sack, softly knotted sandals and satchels, the ultra-luxe croc flip flop.

The Michael Kors man mixes urban tailoring with tropical ease, crushed pinstripes pair with bold palm prints, relaxed jackets, cabana shirts, pleated trousers and shorts play off of textural knits and softly draped tees, a luxe take on the sport sandal. michaelkors.com

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Laid-back Glamour Michael Kors’ Spring collection is all about ease. It’s characterized by the relaxed attitude of sarongs, kimonos and pajamas juxtaposed with oversized menswear tailoring.

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ARCHITECTURE

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June 2018

Boutique Experience

The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.

Billionaire, Dubai Billionaire opened its second store in Dubai in presence of the brand’s Founder, Mr. Flavio Briatore, Mr. Philipp Plein (Creative Director), Mr. Mohammad BinHendi (Board Member) and Mr. Mohi-Din BinHendi (President) at The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest and most-visited retail and entertainment destination, located in the heart of the prestigious Downtown Dubai.

The store offers the full range of menswear, kidswear, and accessories collections. The interior design reflects the new concept conceived and designed by Milan’s renowned CLS Architects and features a series of iconic elements inspired by early 20th century New York skyscrapers, symbols of wealth of the first American billionaires from the industrial age like the golden beam.

The boutique entrance is dominated by a gigantic brass lion statue positioned on a red Levanto marble podium and the Billionaire logo on the top of the door. Fine details include gold coins featuring the Billionaire lion adorn fixtures, walls and the dark red cocciopesto clay floors. A new element is the golden gate, that separates the sales area from the exclusive VIP room.

The kidswear area features walls in white stucco and the golden beams in smaller size. The whole store is conceived to offer undisputed luxury to the discerning Billionaire client.exceeds expectations. billionairecouture.com

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Rene Caovilla, Dubai A new René Caovilla flagship store, with a brand new interior design concept, has opened in the renowned Dubai mall. After the opening of Sao Paulo in Brazil last November, Renè Caovilla continues its retail expansion with this new monobrand store in the Emirates, Dubai.

Designed by the architect duo Bonelli Radovic of m2atelier - popular for their distinctive approach to style and interiors –the new boutique blends contemporary stylishness and sophisticated creativity with a new concept that represents the values of the Brand, elegance, heritage and innovation.

The main innovative element is a dome that recalls the 18th-century petticoats cages.

Materials of the Venetian tradition such as golden surfaces and décor elements, precious wood, crystal and marble put a contemporary spin

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on matte and glossy surfaces according to the brand’s evolution and DNA. The interiors warm and elegant colors succeed in creating a space where the shoe shines brightly.

The new opening represents a further step in René Caovilla international growth. Other stores are due to open in the world’s leading cities and a further 10 are planned over the next two years.

Synonymous with handcrafted elegance at its finest, the Maison René Caovilla has been making “works of art otherwise known as Shoes” for over eight decades. Founded in Venice in 1934 by Edoardo Caovilla, the brand is regarded as having set the benchmark for excellence in the luxury footwear industry. renecaovilla.com

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The Art of Shaving, Dubai The Art of Shaving opened its second store in the UAE at Dubai Festival City Mall. It was a year ago that the brand opened its flagship store in Dubai at the City Walk Boulevard. The Art of Shaving stores feature the brand’s widest range of services including an expansive Barber Spa and an accompanying lounge. A spokesperson for the brand also hinted on more stores in the near future. For 20 years, The Art of Shaving has been a creator and purveyor of the finest shaving and grooming products, rooted in unique, multisensorial experiences. The Art of Shaving is considered one of the world’s leading premium grooming brands with its trademarked “The 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave” – Prepare, Lather Up!, Shave, and Moisturize -- essential oils based grooming products, high-end shaving instruments, Barber Spas, and global retail operations. The brand aims to induct discerning men into the “Brotherhood of Shaving”, a mission to help men elevate grooming from an act to a cherished ritual.

Today, The Art of Shaving serves as a destination for one-on-one consultation and education, where men can get answers for any grooming question they may have from expert shave consultants and master barbers. theartofshaving.com

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Oscar de la Renta, Mykonos Oscar de la Renta opened a pop-up boutique in Mykonos’ Nammos Village, which is known for its exclusive outdoor luxury shopping set adjacent to the world-famous beach club on Psaron beach.

The boutique is designed by Jeang Kim, sister of Oscar de la Renta’s Co-Creative Director Laura Kim, and connects the inviting atmosphere of the Oscar de la Renta retail concept with traditional Mykonian architecture.

The building occupies approximately 300 square feet and will house ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes and fashion jewelry from the PreFall 2018, Resort 2018 and Spring 2018 collections.

The boutique will also sell Oscar de la Renta x

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Morgenthal Frederics sunglasses collection along with an exclusive capsule collection consisting of tunics, caftans palazzo pants, swimwear and towel ponchos inspired by the Greek beach town.

Considered among the world’s greatest fashion designers, de la Renta created award-winning ready-to-wear and evening wear for customers ranging from everyday women to first ladies and celebrities. In 1992, de la Renta became a designer for French label Pierre Balmain. He was the first American designer to helm a French couture house, a position he held until 2002. oscardelarenta.com

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NATURAL TALENT Wildlife sculptor Bill Pricket captures fleeting moments in permanent works of art.

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You have always been passionate about animals. Can you describe your work with animals before you became a sculptor?

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My fondness for animals and the natural world led me to start working as a dolphin and killer whale trainer, during which time I developed an insight into these fascinating animals that few are fortunate enough to experience. Because of my work, I was regularly involved in scientific research to better understand dolphin echolocation with the goal of reducing the by-catch of dolphins in the fishing industry. As time progressed, I trained many other species of animal, including birds of prey, sea lions, foxes, lemur, and I also did some work for the movie industry.

My work and my interest in creatures from some the wilder parts of the world meant that at various times I could be found tracking gorilla in Congo, helping with a problem crocodile in Queensland, Australia, or volunteering with the Pacific Whale Foundation in Hawaii, along with other similar exploits.

What inspired you to leave this work and become a sculptor?

The first sculpture I ever produced was a dolphin, carved with just a sheath knife from a fallen branch. It was a natural subject to choose as I was working with dolphins all day every day and I had unlimited access to them for reference.

However, I discovered that although I knew the subject very well indeed, the act of sculpting a three-dimensional representation forced me to look at the dolphins in a different way, to properly “take in” not only the physical form of the subject but also to try and capture something of its behaviour and character. I always feel that I have a far better understanding of something after I’ve sculpted it than before. This is what I love about what I do now and why I changed tack in my career.

Did you receive any formal training, or are you self-taught?

I am self-taught and have learned from thousands of hours of practice and developing my skills. From the start, I felt an affinity with wood

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“The concept, or design, is based

on not just the physical form of the subject, but some aspect of the behaviour and character.”

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and a genuine interest in my chosen subjects, which meant that I applied myself totally to the task.

After I produced my first carving I managed to gather together four or five of my father’s carpentry chisels, which I later discovered are very different from specialist carving tools, and with these I carved my first bird of prey sculpture of an osprey snatching a fish from water in cherry wood.

I entered this into an international woodcarving competition and won £800 worth of carving tools, so I haven’t bought a gouge or chisel since. Part of my learning process early on was to take on all commissions which came my way. This involved a huge variety of subjects, many of which I would not normally have chosen, from bed headboards, to teapots, but I feel that this pushed my abilities early on and vastly widened my skill and knowledge base.

Can you tell us about your creative process?

My work is a combination of two things: the concept and the material. The concept, or design, is based on not just the physical form of the subject, but some aspect of the behaviour and character. I particularly enjoy capturing a fleeting moment or action and transferring it into a permanent and beautiful sculptural representation of that precise point in time. All my sculptures start with a quite prolonged period of reference gathering and will usually involve trying to see the subject in the wild, taking photos and videos and talking to experts on the subject. After this I need to decide which material will best display the qualities I wish to emphasise from the subject. If it is to be carved from wood, I have to choose which

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of the many species has the qualities I require most. For a piece such as “Eagle Skull” chestnut burr worked best, for pieces like “Rhino bust” or “Octable”, birch plywood, which has a more contemporary feel, was my choice.

Each piece takes several months to produce. What are the most difficult and time-consuming aspects of the process?

It is always the detail that takes the most time, particularly if I’m working in wood, which is my material of choice. As far as possible, size permitting, I prefer to work from a single piece of wood without splicing in separate sections, because this keeps the integrity of the grain throughout the piece and adds to its beauty and uniqueness.

However, it adds another level of difficulty to the work. Mistakes are irreversible, and each stroke of the blade has to be carefully considered before precise and controlled execution. This process, which borders on meditative in its final stages, means that each piece can indeed take several months to complete.

Because of the crisp detail achievable in wood, as opposed to softer materials like clay or wax, the sculptures produced lend themselves very well to being cast in bronze or precious metals as this detail transfers well during the casting process

Do you have a favourite piece you have produced? Why is it your favourite?

It is possibly the same for other artists, but I often feel that my most recent work is my best as it has benefited from the continuous

acquisition of knowledge, skill and technique that accumulates with each piece I produce. A recent piece of functional sculpture that I am particularly pleased with is my “Octable”, an octopus coffee table carved from many layers of birch plywood.

It is one of my favourite pieces partly because of the complexity of design which led to it being an enormous technical challenge.

Your work was featured at the recent Mara’ee 2018 art exhibition.

What was the experience like for you?

It was a real privilege to have been involved in this year’s Mara’ee art exhibition and it was a wonderful opportunity for my work to be seen by a wider audience. The event was very well organised and it was wonderful to discuss details of the carving process with the interested and knowledgeable visitors. I also made some wonderful new friends not only with the other artists involved, but also with the Bahraini falconers who made me feel very welcome and were so very generous with the useful information they shared with me about their birds.

One of your falcon sculptures have also been included into His Majesty Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s Royal collection. Can you tell us more about this piece and what makes it special?

It was a great honour to meet His Majesty and to talk in some detail with him about the sculpture he chose for his collection. This piece, entitled “Taking Flight 2”, captures the moment a falcon is about to launch itself into the sky from a falconer’s

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01 Black Rhino bust. Life-size and hand carved from birch plywood 02 Bill in his studio working on his latest piece “Arabian Stallion bust” carved from lime wood 03 Limited edition bronze ‘Preening Falcon”.

04 “Eagle Skull”. Hand carved from a single piece of beautiful sweet chestnut burr 05 A close up of “Taking Flight”.

This was hand carved, with great detail, from a single piece lime wood 06 “Taking Flight 2”. Another highly detailed falcon sculpture which has also been produced, as shown here, as a limited edition bronze

gloved hand. It is carved from English lime wood and represents around three months of work from timber selection, design, roughing out the pose and carving in the key features, all the way to the painstaking process of carving each individual feather and applying the final details of feather barbs and carving every stitch in the glove. One feature which makes this piece extra special is that if one was to look carefully at the bird’s right foot, the centre talon has snagged the thread from a stitched seam in the glove and pulled out one stitch. It is in details like this that I derive great pleasure and therefore have developed a dedication to the process.

What are you currently working on? What can your fans expect next from you?

At the moment, I am working on a bust of an Arabian stallion. I started carving it just before this year’s Mara’ee event with the intent of showing it as a work in progress and to act as a catalyst to conversation with visitors. In its usual way, the sculpting process means that I am learning an incredible amount about this stunningly beautiful and historically interesting breed, and I feel I shall be carving more of this subject in the future. billprickett.co.uk

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MASTERPIECE

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The Cultured Artist Veteran artist Ahmed Anan creates art that celebrates women as icons.

When did you first realize you were born to be an artist?

My love for the arts started when I was young, influenced by cartoons as a child. This passion remained with me until I reached high school in 1987. It was then that I felt my path had been chosen. In 1989, I joined Bahrain Contemporary Arts Association and launched my career. And here I am today, the Head of this Association.

How would you describe your style?

Are there any patterns you prefer to use?

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Due to my financial conditions at the time, and the lack of a university in Bahrain specializing in fine arts, I had to learn on my own through research, trials, and participation in workshops

abroad. This allowed me to discover various styles in drawing, sculpting, and printing in various schools. In the early 90’s, I started drawing stories and caricatures. I then specialized in total and partial abstract arts, becoming familiar with the modern styles. Since the early 90’s, all my paintings have featured representations of the woman in modern and symbolic arts. The woman is my icon.

Is there a particular piece from your work that’s your favorite?

I am proud of all my work, but I do believe that my best pieces were the ones that have been sold.

There are some that I prefer not to sell because they hold such personal memories to me. I also prefer some of my projects that I consider to be a transitional point from one style to the next.

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Growing up, who were your role models in the art world?

What is standing in the way of an artist’s success these days?

Early on, I preferred the artists of the renaissance era, but after that, the genius Pablo Picasso became the main influencer on my artistic methods.

The art movement started in Bahrain in the 1960’s, while at that time, it had reached its peak in the more advanced countries. I think the art world here is still young, and trying to catch up with the Western schools and artists. Though, we do have a few distinguished artists.

A number of things stand in the way of the artist’s success, including the artist himself. Most artists tend to be reclusive and prefer to work in hiding despite the fact that fame is one of the most important factors in an artist’s emergence. There are other obstacles such as being unappreciated or misunderstood, even undervalued by relevant parties, as they are sometimes unaware of the true value of art and its role in building civilizations.

There’s also the lack of a real market for the arts, one that can support the artist and art collectors.

We don’t have any specialized critics in the field of fine arts. And we are lacking in programmes that promote the affairs of arts and culture, which leaves the field of art as vague and undermines its merit in

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What do you think of the art scene in Bahrain? Do we have a lot of artists here or is it still a growing community?

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June 2018

01 Renditions of women permeate Anan’s work

04 Mixed media on canvas, 120x200cm, 2017, sold

02 Artist Ahmed Anan

05 Sold painting, mixed media on canvas, 120x200cm, 2017

03 Sold painting, mixed media on canvas, 120x200cm, 2017

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06 Anan’s artistic themes of women often evoke a deeper meaning 07 Women have been the focal point of Anan’s subjects for decades 08 Symbolism and abstract art, a mainstay in Anan’s artwork

receiving meaningful support. This is why we don’t have a distinction between the good artists and the best artists.

What advice would you give to a young artist who wants to have a career in the art world?

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Young artists today want to be famous at the speed of lightning. My advice to them is to study the arts in all its aspects, schools, and history. They should also keep practicing continuously, and try to mingle with other artists and cultured individuals through participation in important events. They should visit museums and be aware of the latest trends. After

enough cultural accumulation, they can focus on producing. One additional advice I would give is to focus on specialized studies in critique, philosophy, beauty, and everything related to the arts.

Are there any artists you would like to work with or countries where you want to exhibit your art in the future?

I hope to have my own exhibition in the US and Europe in particular. It’s something that I have been dedicating all my efforts to achieve these days. ananart.net

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TRAVEL

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01-02 The majestic Keukenhof gardens 03 Windmill and tulips at Lisse 04 Violet clouds of Muscari (Grape Hyacinth)

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In BLOOM Holland’s world-renowned Keukenhof Tulip Festival is a stunning showcase for the country’s iconic tulips, crocuses, daffodils, and other bulb flowers

By Mona Jumaan

All images © Mona Jumaan

Blessed with a long spring season of beautiful cool nights, Holland is the perfect country for tulip growing. It is during this season that the world is welcomed to its infamous Keukenhof Tulip Festival, a platform for the Dutch floricultural sector and one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year.

From mid-March to mid-May, a substantial part of the country, in particular the Kop van NoordHolland, is decked with millions of tulips, hyacinths, muscaris, and other flowers, transforming the landscape into a sea of vibrant colours where flower markets and gardens abound.

Over the past 69 years, this floral event has grown into a truly international attraction that draws more than 1.5million visitors a year. A trip to the most beautiful spring garden in the world is guaranteed to delight the senses and offer a

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A trip to the most beautiful spring “garden in the world is guaranteed to

delight the senses and offer a unique and unforgettable experience.”

05 05 Picturesque houses of Noordwijkerhout amidst breathtaking tulips field 06 Stunningly beautiful yellow tulips 07 Japanese garden in Keukenhof

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unique and an unforgettable experience.

Originally cultivated in the Ottoman Empire, tulips were first imported into Holland in the 16th century from Turkey. As the Dutch Golden Age grew, this curvaceous and colourful flower became dominant in paintings and festivals. As the demand for bulbs grew so did their price and they soon became a valuable commodity. When early Dutch settlers immigrated, they took their prized flowers with them, which is why tulips and tulip festivals are now found in New York (originally New Amsterdam) and Michigan, USA. The most iconic setting in the world to take in the splendour of Dutch tulips and other flowers is Castle Keukenhof, a notable country house near Lisse that dates back to 1641. This luxurious estate is home to the famed Keukenhof Gardens, which cover an area of 32 hectares (79 acres). Every year, 7 million tulips of 800 varieties are handpicked and grown here. Visitors can also enjoy more than 20

spectacular flower shows, as well as English and Japanese gardens, a spring meadow, and a garden maze. A sculpture garden with approximately 100 unique works of art, which are different each year, is another must-see.

Keukenhof has a different theme each year and 2018’s was ‘Romance in Flowers’. After all, the two are inseparable. The Keukenhof Gardens are a labour of love and 30 full-time gardeners work year-round, beginning as early as autumn, planting the bulbs by hand in a completely new design. The process takes about 3 months and bulbs are selected to bloom throughout the 8-week opening period.

Holland’s tulip season runs from the end of March until mid May, but the flowers are usually at their best halfway through April, which is the perfect time to visit. During this time of the year, you really only have to board a train or take a short bike ride to watch the tulips in all their glory in rural fields. Most tulip farms in

Holland are located in the Noordoostpolder in the province of Flevoland. The flower bulb fields along the coast of The Hague and Leiden up to Alkmaar in the north are also a great way to enjoy these beautiful flowers. The Keukenhof is just a 15-minute drive away from Leiden and 30 minutes from Amsterdam.

Tulips are grown for their bulbs not for their flowers, which is why tulip farmers remove the flowers from the tulipsas to increase the strength of the bulb. The bulbs are excavated just before summer arrives and then shipped all over the world as a famous export. Many bulbs are replanted during autumn so we can enjoy the colourful flower fields in the following spring.

If you want to see Holland’s magnificent flower fields, be sure to visit during the last two weeks of April, which is the best time to see them. keukenhof.nl

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HOME

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Manufacturing Elegance Big historical names and new generations are confronted with the plastic versatility of the metal and the endless reflecting possibilities of brass.

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From a vase to an armchair, from a console to a dining table, each room has its own sparkling object. GHIDINI1961 is a talent scout of young promises of contemporary design, attentive to contaminations with different, heterogeneous cultures.

2018 marks the passage of a larger scale for the company, from tableware and accessories to living spaces. New pieces characterized by the combination of brass and fabric will be presented and defined by a great formal freedom.

The continuous search for unpublished stories has led GHIDINI1961 to become a reference for the processing of brass at large, in all its declinations, expressing its vocation into the furniture, lamps and accessories that will be presented at Palazzo Visconti. ghidini1961.com

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DESTINATION

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Marine Chic

Regent Porto Montenegro fulfills the promise of a luxury seaside escape

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01 Aqua Wing view of Regent Porto Montenegro 02 Penthouse Terrace overlooking the marina 03 Aerial shot of the marina and hotel 04 Gorgeous landscape of Porto Montenegro

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Located to the east of Italy’s south east coast and bordering Serbia, Albania, Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina is Montenegro. Known for its pristine interiors and dramatic mountainscapes, it’s also home to one of the world’s most idyllic nautical playgrounds, Boka Bay, which is a sunken canyon that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the largest natural harbour in the eastern Mediterranean. Nestled within Boka Bay is the Mediterranean’s leading luxury yacht homeport and marina village, Porto Montenegro. A premier marina destination with luxury waterfront residences and an international retail village, Porto Montenegro caters to the advanced needs of all yachts, their owners, guests and crew, with specific infrastructure for superyachts (yachts over 30m).

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Born out of the vision of its chief investor, Canadian businessman Peter Munk, Porto Montenegro’s marina utilises the existing infrastructure of the former Yugoslav naval facility upon which it is built. It features 450 berths (850 berths planned in total), able to accommodate the largest superyachts in the world, alongside providing the highest level of service and amenities – including a nearby shipyard with dry-dock and repair facilities. In addition, the development has created a vibrant coastal community of waterfront residences, restaurants, shops, amenities and leisure facilities. The marina has been recognised for its efforts through the years, gaining Marina of distinction from 2015-2017, and becoming the only marina to be awarded Platinum by The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) in 2017.

One of its biggest attractions is the Regent

Porto Montenegro Hotel. The hotel lies along the palm tree lined shores of Boka Bay, set against a backdrop of striking mountains. Its location is at the heart of the best emerging cruising waters in the Mediterranean basin. Porto Montenegro itself has over one kilometer of west-facing waterfront. Regent Porto Montenegro is the only five-star international hotel in Boka Bay, with a central location amongst numerous listed World Heritage Sites. Many fine dining establishments and entertainment options are available within walking distance from the hotel.

This spectacular waterfront hotel comprises of 150 hotel rooms and residences. Facilities include a pool club, spa, library bar and restaurants, as well as an al fresco dining area in an Italian inspired garden. These contemporary chic apartments, each with a landscaped terrace,

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05 The marina can accommodate the largest superyachts in the world 06 Exterior shot of hotel 07 Porto Montenegro is renowned for its picturesque mountainscapes 08 Architecture inspired by the Italian Riviera

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09 Regent Porto Montenegro’s Pool Club 10 Living area in one of the Penthouses 11 The Penthouse bathroom 12 A Penthouse pool 13 The Penthouse bedroom

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are inspired by the Italian Riviera and have unobscured sea and mountain views – tipped to be the best real estate in Montenegro.

The Aqua Wing’s one-to-three bedrooms, suites and penthouses are a symphony of elegance and repose. Earthy shades of beige, straw and grass contrast harmoniously with sumptuous furniture in rich dark tones to create a serene oasis, peppered with local influences. The hotel’s first floor function space includes the Ballroom “Teodo”, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, Salon “Boka”, a foyer and the Regent Lounge.

The hotel is known for organising several tours of the area, such as the Beautiful Montenegro Tour which gives guests the opportunity to see the most attractive sites of Montenegro, both, Seaside and Mountains such as Lovćen. Guests can also take in the history and nature attractions while tasting a spirit of local living in the Old Royal Capital of Cetinje. Several activities are offered as part of the tours, including wakeboarding, waterskiing, hiking, kayaking, and many more. regenthotels.com

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HOTELS

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Dusit Thani Dubai Dusit Thani Dubai is an iconic 5-star luxury hotel that captures the essence of Thailand in the vibrant centre of this cosmopolitan city, the jewel of the UAE. The hotel is strategically located just five minutes from Dubai’s main business hub, within walking distance from the nearest metro station and just 15 minutes from the airport. In addition, the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall, are just a short walk from Dusit Thani.

The hotel also provides complimentary scheduled pickup and drop-off to Dubai International Financial Centre, major shopping malls, and other attractions.

Enjoy jaw-dropping views of Dubai’s futuristic skyline while relaxing in the comfort of Thai elegance and grandeur in one of their fullyrenovated luxurious rooms or suites. Sample thoughtfully prepared dishes inspired by flavours spanning the globe at one of the hotel’s seven dining and entertainment outlets, have a pampering and revitalizing spa treatment at Namm Spa or soak away your cares in their amazing rooftop pool.

Offering 321 fully renovated rooms and suites in Dubai’s city centre, the 5-star accommodation combines traditional Thai design with a host of amenities and facilities to make each stay a unique and personalised experience. Their seven categorised rooms each offer their own unique appeal. Whether you choose to stay in one of the Executive Club Suites, Dusit Club Room or Dusit

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Suite, each with access to the Club Lounge, or an Executive Suite, Deluxe Room, or One and Two Bedroom Suites, you will be sure to call Dusit Thani Dubai your home away from home whilst visiting Dubai.

Take a sensory journey of thoughtfullyprepared dishes inspired by flavours spanning the globe as Dusit Thani Dubai’s Chefs and Restaurant Managers entertain you in the hotel’s seven food and beverage outlets. Enjoy the majestic setting of Benjarong, serving Royal Thai Cuisine straight from the palaces of Thailand, Italian favourites with views across Dubai in PAX, International buffet offerings in The Californian, and many more.

Dusit Thani Dubai’s central location lends itself to easy exploration of Dubai’s main sights and attractions. For leisure pursuits, the Concierge Team, led by Les Clefs d’Or certified Chief Concierge, is always at your service.

At Dusit Thani Dubai, five meeting and conference rooms, an Executive Boardroom, and the Al Wasl Ballroom with its own private lounge combine to offer the ideal venue to host Dubai’s most exclusive business and social events.

Whether you are looking to host a gala event to impress your clients, an exhibition to showcase your products or a conference to discuss latest trends and developments, the highly skilled Events team can work with you to create an event that exceeds expectations. dusit.com

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01 The lobby at Dusit Thani Dubai

03 Living room at Executive Suite

02 Two Bedroom Suite with view of Burj Khalifa

04 Executive Suite bedroom

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

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05 The Royal Suite at Four Seasons New York Downtown

07 Comfortable, welcoming interiors with 21st century sensibilities

06 Luxurious Suite bedroom

08 The view, truly downtown

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Four Seasons Hotel NewYork Downtown, NYC Over nine years in the making, Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown was conceived by the visionary downtown developer Larry Silverstein and famed architect Robert A.M. Stern. Originally conceived in 2007, construction on the 82-storey tower officially began in December 2013 and on September 19, 2016 the Hotel and Residences opened to much acclaim.

As one of the brand’s latest additions to its North American portfolio, the Hotel features 189 guest rooms including 28 suites; 600 square metres of event space; CUT, the first New York restaurant by celebrity restauranteur Wolfgang Puck; and The Spa including seven treatment rooms, an outdoor terrace, 24 hour fitness centre and a 23 metre indoor lap pool.

Ideal for both business and leisure guests, Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown is perfectly situated close to various neighbourhoods, activities and attractions, including One World Observatory, the Oculus, Westfield World Trade Center, Brookfield Place, the Brooklyn Bridge, Tribeca, the Seaport District, Wall Street, Financial District, Battery Park, The Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Meatpacking District.

Seasoned travelers will find that Manhattan’s most coveted accommodations offer modern residential-style living with numerous thoughtful touches for discerning travellers, all wrapped in attentive Four Seasons service. The Royal Suite is the pinnacle of cosmopolitan style, spanning an entire side of the 24th floor with views in three directions. Several of the corner Gotham Suites have a rarity in New York hotels – walk out terraces on the 23rd and 24th floors. Finally, there are the Tribeca Suites with apartment-like

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layouts and amenities that feel far more like a home than a hotel.

Art-filled interiors are by Yabu Pushelberg, the Soho and Toronto-based designers known for their fresh aesthetic and exacting attention to detail, coupled with Four Seasons’ dedication to creating environments that anticipate every guest’s need, including a desire for flexible space they can make their own while in residence.

A wide range of activities are easily accessed from the hotel such as walking, jogging, running; shopping, gallery hopping, indoor/outdoor dining and nightlife; golf, tennis and racquet sports, cycling, ice skating; sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, children’s amusements including the SeaGlass Carousel, and numerous walking, bus, boat and helicopter tours.

Frequent travellers to New York City know that finding a hotel with a pool is nearly impossible, let alone one that offers serious swimmers a workout and affords indoor fun for the kids. Bucking the norm again, Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown boasts a glorious 23 metre lap pool against a wall of windows surrounded by comfy loungers, with a qualified lifeguard on duty during selected hours.

The sumptuous Spa – open to both hotel guests and day visitors – is the first in the city to feature Omorovicza and Dr Burgener products. There are seven treatment rooms, and therapies can also be arranged in one’s room or suite. There’s a fullyequipped, always-open fitness centre, and Four Seasons is happy to provide suggested jogging routes and point active guests in the direction of skating rinks and other recreational facilities in Lower Manhattan. fourseasons.com

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09 The Presidential Suite bathroom 10 The study at the Presidential Suite

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11 Mandarin Oriental NYC hotel lobby 12 The Presidential Suite bedroom

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Mandarin Oriental New York, NYC Offering a bird’s eye view of the city, Mandarin Oriental, New York is a luxury hotel with a Five-Star difference. Enjoying a stunning setting and beautiful views of Manhattan, it offers the ultimate in service, comfort and style. The hotel has received many national and international awards, and operates one of only two Forbes Five-Star spas in Manhattan.

The AAA Five-Diamond awarded hotel contains 202 guestrooms and 46 suites on floors 35 to 54 of the Time Warner Center with views of Central Park and the Hudson River.

Vivienne Tam, a noted New York fashion designer, designed the hotel’s signature fan, a modern fan displayed in the hotel lobby. Dale Chihuly created two glass pieces installed in the hotel. The first is a chandelier, created in a unique collaboration with Waterford Crystal, weighing approximately 2,100 pounds and comprising 683 hand blown glass and crystal

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pieces. The second installation, located in the 35th floor lobby, is Chihuly’s first foray into glass gardens. A 250-year-old parchment calligraphy book, conveying a story of happiness and good fortune, and a collection of carved ornaments from furnishings of the same period are housed in the Presidential Suite.

The Spa is one of only two Forbes Five-Star spas in Manhattan is located on the 35th and 36th floors of the hotel and spans 1,350 m2. It offers traditional treatments, such as massages, manicures and pedicures in addition to a list of unique signature therapies, including a vitamin infused facial, the “Clearing Factor” and a Thai yoga massage.

The hotel includes a number of restaurants.

Asiate offers contemporary cuisine with Asian influences on the 35th floor overlooking Central Park. Lobby Lounge offers coffee, cocktails, light fare and a traditional afternoon tea with views

of the city skyline. MObar is a contemporary bar inspired by designs of New York City apartments in the 1930s and 1940s.

The hotel also offers additional services and facilities, including a 560 square metre fitness center, a 23 metre indoor lap pool, and a pillarless ballroom overlooking Central Park, and three executive meeting rooms.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, New York are a collection of 64 condominiums located directly above the hotel on floors 64–80. The individual units range from 93 square metres to full-floor apartments with over 740 square metres of private space. The full-service apartments have complete access to the hotel’s amenities and services, including the concierge, housekeeping, room service and fitness center. mandarinoriental.com

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Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi With a prominent stature and unique architecture design, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi comprises 402 rooms and suites and 131 furnished studios and one-bedroom apartments. Each room has a wonderful mix of Thai influences and modern lifestyle and has been beautifully designed with the savvy traveller in mind.

The hotel offers an array of exquisite restaurants serve delicacies to satisfy any palate and a host of facilities and services, including Namm Spa and DFiT Fitness Centre, allow guests to nurture their minds and bodies.

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is the ideal choice for business and leisure travellers, offering its guests the perfect location from where to explore the graceful capital of the United Arab Emirates. Centrally located 10 minutes away from Abu Dhabi Corniche, the hotel offers easy access to the major business and leisure destinations. The Eastern Mangroves, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are close by while Abu Dhabi International Airport is a mere 20 minutes’ drive from the hotel.

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi offers well-travelled guests the best of modern Arabian hospitality with Thai grace. Ideal for families, young guests under 12 years old stay for free and the hotel offers special room packages, special menus and activities for children.

The hotel hosts a variety of wellness facilities and services, including a rooftop outdoor swimming pool, traditional Thai treatments at Namm Spa, personal training and yoga classes at DFiT fitness centre, allowing guests to nurture their minds and bodies.

Showcasing the authentic Thai experience at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is its signature award-winning restaurant, Benjarong. The outlet takes diners on an authentic culinary journey within a unique Asian setting, adorned with authentic Thai design elements and live show kitchen.

The innovative design of the conference and events center, with its stunning glass-panelled Skydome, makes Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi the perfect venue to host unforgettable cocktail receptions and weddings.

The hotel’s luxury accommodation provides a full range of modern amenities and convenience in tastefully designed interiors that evoke traditional Thai style. The rooms and apartments are equipped with the latest technology and free wireless internet for those seeking comfort, luxury and personalized services. The club rooms and suites provide exclusive access to the Dusit Club Lounge where discerning guests can enjoy daily continental breakfast,

afternoon tea and coffee, evening drinks, all day snacks and refreshments.

For guests who desire ultimate space and comfort, the 450-sqm Royal Suite is the choice in luxury accommodation. Showcasing stunning views over the Eastern Mangroves reserve and Abu Dhabi, the palatial suite includes a master bedroom, a twin bedroom, a private spa, spacious living area, a dedicated work desk, a fully equipped kitchen, a separate dining area, and a stylish reception hall. Royal Suite guests are also entitled to the full range of impeccable Dusit Club benefits.

Guests can enjoy a workout at the fully equipped, state-of-the art DFiT fitness centre with certified personal trainers, opt for a Yoga session with Yoga Guru Ganesh, take a dip in the rooftop outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool offering panoramic views of the city, relax in the Jacuzzi, or indulge in a signature massage treatment at Namm Spa. Each specialized treatment is designed to pamper your senses and redefine your inner balance and outer beauty. dusit.com

13 The lobby at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi 14 The bathroom at the Royal Suite 15 The Royal Suite living room 16 King-size bed at the Deluxe Room 17 The Conference and Events Centre with stunning glasspanelled skydome

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Step into your own private paradise at Velaa Private Island, Maldives, with icing sugar sand, azure blue waters, and breathtaking open sunsets and sunrises framed by lush palm fronds.

Velaa Private Island offers a choice of luxury villas for your stay from intimate one-bedroom detached villas to larger residences which can accommodate up to 10 friends or family members.

The front villas are tastefully furnished with mahogany louvered panels, teak furniture, and suspended bamboo lights which bring nature in.

Wall to wall glass doors frame the terrace and private pool and fill the villas with natural light.

In the beach pool villa, an indoor bathroom with Romeo and Juliet basins opens onto a large outdoor bathroom where a gazebo-covered daybed overlooks the oversized tub. Day beds, swinging chairs, and an alfresco dining area face the Indian Ocean.

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The sunrise water pool villas enjoy uninterrupted views of the ocean and private pools, while the sunset deluxe water pool villas face the sunset. Dreamlike in design, the villas are separated by canvas sails to ensure utmost privacy and feature huge viewing windows and steps leading into the ocean.

The ocean pool house, located on the tip of the island, is a two-bedroom overwater residence fringed with traditional thatch and elegantly appointed with carefully curated elements. Louvered shutters let the breeze flow through, while a deep sofa is covered in scatter cushions, ideal for settling

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down with a good book. The dining area provides a central space while the ocean is the backdrop from every aspect – from the two spacious bathrooms featuring circular baths, to the elegant bedrooms.

Swim in your own pool and relax on the sun deck, or step directly into the lagoon. Kick back under one of two gazebos – one with a sunken hot tub and the other with daybeds.

For the ultimate romantic getaway, consider the romantic pool residence, an ultra-private onebedroom villa suspended above the lagoon with

01 Romantic Pool Bedroom 02 Exterior shot of Oceal Pool House 03 Deluxe Beach Pool Villa

uninterrupted views of the ocean and a private chef and butler. Accessible only by boat, it offers utmost privacy and romance, making it perfect for honeymooners or those looking for ultra-luxury.

Dine inside or over the water in a dining gazebo on its own jetty at sunset or enjoy sundowners on the sumptuous daybeds. With a personal gym and spa treatment rooms inside the residence, there’s little reason to leave. velaaprivateislands.com

04 Over water gazebo at the Romantic Pool Residence 05 Water Pool Villa’s outdoor gazeba at sunrise 06 Exterior view of Tavaru Restaurant and Bar

“Dreamlike in design, the villas are

separated by canvas sails to ensure utmost privacy and feature huge viewing windows and steps leading into the ocean.”

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SPAS

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01 The Serenity Suite

03 The Harmony Suite

02 Dry sauna

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

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The Spa, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo One essential aspect of The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is the concept of the ‘Spa Journey’.

Guests are invited to arrive and begin their spa experience one full hour before their scheduled treatment time. In nine serene rooms, including four suites and one Spa Studio, guests are guided through a personalised journey of Asian and western-inspired relaxation, beauty, and wellness components conceived to instill inner peace and physical rejuvenation that will bring about a clear feeling of well-being. Located on the 37th and 38th floors of the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, the Spa is primely positioned, with its suites offering magnificent views and unforgettable Heat and Water experiences. Guests are pampered in legendary Mandarin Oriental style, and transported to a meditative haven conducive to self-reflection.

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Mandarin Oriental’s signature product line has been developed specifically for the Group by the award-winning UK based company, Aromatherapy Associates. The product range incorporates five body oils, five bath and shower oils and a generic body scrub, body wash and body lotion. All of them contain natural ingredients and are paraben free, and have been blended by a master blender to Mandarin Oriental’s specifications. Easy to use and effective in their treatment, they provide an ideal extension of the spa experience into daily life. The newly introduced Subtle Energies, the award-winning Ayurveda Aromatherapy brand, delivers holistic yet result driven treatments that are exclusive in Japan to Mandarin oriental, Tokyo. mandarinoriental.com

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SPAS 05 The largest swimming pool in any Parisian hotel 06 Pure white treatment rooms soothing to the eyes

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08 Guests can enjoy personalised treatments

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Spa My Blend by Clarins, Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris The luxurious Spa My Blend by Clarins at Le Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris is a white paradise of relaxation and pampering. At the centre of the 1500 m2 spa is an eye catching 23 metre swimming pool; bathed in natural light and the largest in any Parisian hotel.

The revolutionary new concept, My Blend by Clarins by Dr Olivier Courtin, is a unique range of fully customisable skin care products designed for the individual needs of every skin type at every age.

The bespoke facial treatments, exclusively available at Le Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris, begin with an in-depth skin analysis to determine the biological age of the skin, followed by expert application of the personalised treatments by ‘My Beauty Coach’ and polished off with a Clarins make-up session.

The Spa My Blend by Clarins features a watsu

pool, a hammam, a laconium room, an ice fountain, a sauna and seven treatment rooms (including one VIP double cabin), where ladies are pampered in rooms of pure white with feminine hints of translucent pink and gentlemen are welcomed into their treatment zones via a large stainless steel hall.

The Ladies & Gentlemen’s relaxation rooms also offer a unique “shower experience”, which can be tailored with different choices of light, music and essential oil. The four generously proportioned fitness rooms feature state-of-the-art Technogym and Kinesis equipment, a private Thai Boxing studio, one room entirely dedicated to Pilates with the latest Reformer and Cadillac machines, and a yoga room offering Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga and Power Yoga. leroyalmonceau.com

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DINING

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

Crab Market, Dubai Located in Dubai International Financial Centre, Crab Market is Dubai’s freshest seafood restaurant.

A pescatarian haven, it features aquariums and ice displays taking inspiration from fish markets around the world. The new dining concept offers a modern international cuisine focused on fairpriced seafood with crabs as their specialty. The expansive menu is inspired by the Levant, Russian, Italian, Peruvian and French cuisine, fusing the best techniques and flavours from across the globe, and has been expertly put together by renowned chef, Vladimir Mukhin.

Offering the best to food connoisseurs, the restaurant boasts a wide selection of seafood, including soft shell, blue, brown and Kamchatka crabs from four different parts of the world, lobsters, oysters and scallops in tanks; octopus, salmon, tuna, prawns, shrimp, black cod, and Chilean sea bass – all fresh from the markets.

Catering for all palettes, Crab Market gives guests the opportunity to select their dish from the ice market or tank and have it cooked exactly to their preference.

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Other culinary favourites include Burrata di Puglia, Bruschetta with Crab, Bottarga and Stratacciella, Rockefeller Oysters with Spinach and Parmesan, Crab Chowder and Lobster Laska. The menu also features tailored dishes for vegetarians with an innovative take on Pomegranate and Pesto-Pumpkin, Spinach with Raisins and Grilled Avocado with a chili thread.

Offering lunch and dinner, the signature dishes from the menu include the Russian delicacy Kamchatka Crab and the intensely flavoursome Soft Shell Crabs, both of which can be cooked in any one of the five signature sauces – White Pepper, Black Pepper, Curry, Garlic Chili and Champagne. The outstanding Tartare Mezzeh celebrates a delicious Arabic fusion between hummus and fresh raw fish, whereas the Cauliflower Carpaccio combines rich Italian flavours with a unique vegetable carpaccio, thinly sliced iced cauliflower with a mousse of parmesan cream served with shavings of black truffle. crabmarket.com

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01 Relaxed and inviting ambiance

03 Gamberi rossi ceviche

02 A new dining concept

04 Duck with grapes and potatoes

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DINING

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Mahonia, Adliya Mahonia, Bahrain’s first ever fine dining degustation restaurant, is now open in Adliya.

Mahonia leads the way to a new era of fine dining with its gastronomic degustation menu concept, distinctively different from anything else in Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf.

Daringly exclusive with only seven tables, 3 times Michelin-starred Executive Chef Herve Pronzato spent over a year developing the menu, meticulously designing and perfecting Mahonia’s offering. Mahonia delivers an authentic epicurean journey with a choice of a 16-course or 7-course degustation menu with exclusive beverage pairings. In addition, their exquisitely planned à la carte menu increases the choice of delectable dishes available for the food connoisseurs.

Mahonia also has a magnificent cigar lounge

that offers an enviable array of special cigars to accompany the finest beverages selected by the expert sommeliers. A first-class assortment of gastronomic snacks delicately designed to complement Mahonia’s cocktails, graceful and tiny, yet explosive in flavour and complexity, feature on the menu of the lounge.

Boldly different and truly exclusive in its design, guests entering Mahonia are stunned by the outstanding décor. Chic Bohemian chandeliers hang from above, illuminating the restaurant stylishly decorated with bespoke furniture. Carefully curated priceless, original artworks adorn the walls; and flawless Murano sculptures and Baccarat vases add decadent touches to the décor. mahoniabh.com

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05 Pineapple - dates, cream, vanilla, sichuan pepper

07 Kobe beef - pastrami, chickpea, cracker, and pomegranate

06 Original artworks compliment the bold and unique decor

08 Mahonia’s elegant interiors

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Bullona Ristorante, Milan

09 Black code in black sauce 10 Smoked cream Saint Germain with shrimp

The decayed and disused Art Nouveau station dating back to 1929 has been renovated by the entrepreneur Pino Scalise who turned it into an exclusive restaurant.

The restaurant, together with the property, brings back la dolce vita of the end of the Second World War as pictured in the famous film that has marked the era. The project was conceived so that the spirit, the emotions, and the taste could be recovered from the flavor of those years, contextualizing them to the present day and interpreting them in a contemporary key.

The restaurant offer is based on an innovative format in which raw fish and coquillage are served from a 9-metre open counter to the tunes of the most sought after deep house of DJ Ben. Alongside the delicious Mediterranean cuisine,

11 The new lobby 12 The main front lobby with big chandelier 13 The front facade of Bullona

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emphasis has also been placed on the exhibition side, opening the refined spaces to art exhibitions that will gradually be hosted here.

La Bullona, thanks to the friendship that links Pino Scalise, a great lover of art, to Michele Casamonti, owner of the most important Italian gallery, Tornabuoni Arté, will become a space in which they will alternate works by Milanese artists of the twentieth century, with names such as Enrico Castellani, Agostino Bonalumi, Piero Manzoni, Lucio Fontana, Arnaldo Pomodoro and, secondly, periodic exhibitions by contemporary artists, including Fabio Viale, Maurizio Cattelan. It also wants to pay homage to the city of Milan, ‘a hard-working City’ to whom the owner owes ‘everything both professionally and culturally’. bullona.com

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Bon Appétit

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The Culinary Artist

Ever since graduating as a chef at the age of 16, Yann Bernard Lejard has been sharing his gift with the world. He has worked in Michelin one, two- and three-star restaurants, as well as for international leading hotels across 18 countries.

At Hotel Las Dunas, he was part of the team to achieve the first Michelin Star restaurant hotel in Spain. In Switzerland, he became the finalist for Taittinger Culinary Grand Prix, as well as being ranked by Gault & Millau. He is also an artist, expressing his talents in street art from his early teens. Plates by YBL are unique and different from the usual. His eye for color and his way of drawing sauce on a plate show his signature style and have set about a new wave of plating by chefs all over the world. Presently in the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, and Executive Sous Chef since 2014, he has been recognized as an influencing chef by the culinary world and continues to be invited around the world to share his art of plating and skills. fb.com/YBL-Inc-389895664397844

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Egg Asparagus Coriander Ingredients • Egg 1 • Asparagus big 3 p • Mini Shrimp 100g • Avocado 80g • Lemon 1 • Lime 1 • Salt pm • White pepper pm • Olive oil extra virgin 30g • Micro cress pm • Toast bread 2 slice • Coriander • Butter 100g Ingredients for Coriander sauce • Coriander 1kg • Butter 250 g • Flour 250g • Sweet chili sauce 1 bottle • Orange juice1 litre • Lime 4 • Green pistachio powder color 5g • Ginger 50g • Cold glaze 50g Method 1. Boil the egg for 5 minutes 2. Remove the shell and keep warm 3. Cook the asparagus soft in salted boiling water 4. Flash the shrimp in salted boiling water then marinate with lime, lemon, olive oil and coriander 5. Cut the toast bread then cook in butter until crisp 6. Mash the avocado with salt, lemon, and olive oil 7. Splash the coriander sauce, place the asparagus chopped mixed with the avocado 8. Put the egg on the top, add the shrimp 9. Place the micro greens, cut the eggs and drop olive oil on the top 10. Serve warm

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Salmon “I Walk the Line” Ingredients FOR Salmon • Salmon 1 filet no skin • Horseradish cream 300g • Salt 25g • Sugar 25g Ingredients for Beetroot sauce • Cooked beetroot 250g • Sour cream 50g • Japanese mayonnaise 100g • Lemon 1 • Salt pm • Neutral cold glaze 50g Ingredients FOR Horseradish • Horseradish cream 100g • Sour cream 20g • Japanese mayonnaise 100g • Titanium powder 5g • Lemon 1 • Salt pm • White pepper pm • Neutral cold glaze 30g Ingredients FOR Wasabi • Wasabi 50g • Japanese Mayonnaise 100g • Lemon 1 • Sour cream 20g • Apple juice 30g • Neutral cold glaze30g • Pistachio powder color Ingredients FOR Garniture • Green apple 1 • Flower pm • Red onions 100g • Chive 10g • Sugar 50g • Vinegar 50g • Fresh ginger 25g • Mini cucumber 100g • Dill 10g • Mustard seeds 5g • Chervil 10g Method 1. Mix sugar salt and horseradish and marinate the salmon 24 hours 2. Rinse, dry, reserve 3. Make the 3 sauces by blending all the ingredients and strain with super bag, reserve 4. Prepare all the garniture, the pickles, and cut the apples 5. Cut the salmon and plate

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Alice In Wonderland Ingredients FOR Mirror glaze • Gelatin40g • Water 240g • Glucose 600g • Sugar 600g • Water 300g • Sweetened condensed milk 400g • White chocolate 600g • Titanium • Purple color • Yellow • Red • Blue • Green Ingredients for Brioche • Brioche cube 9 cm • Sugar 500g • Egg 10p • Cream 0.5l Ingredients for Crème Grand Marnier • Pastry cream 1 liter • Grand marnier 1 bottle • Orange zest 10 • Whipped cream 500g Ingredients for Fruits assortment • 5 kinds Ingredients for Ice cream • to choose Ingredients for Garniture • Chocolate minth • Edible flower Method 1 Prepare the mirror glaze, add the titanium, strain with super bag 2 Divide the sauce in equal quantity and do the color assortment 3 Do the brioche like a French toast, cut a square and do all the sides 4 Add Grand Marnier, to the pastry cream, whipped cream, and orange zest 5 Cut the fruits and put on the top of the brioche, place the ice cream on the top with minth and 6 flower 7 Put on the canvas with the mirror glaze

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F1 Pirelli Hot Laps Durrah Experience brings you those truly extravagant and unique events for the unrivalled rush and cherished memories

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In the lead up to the official start of 2018 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix event, a lucky group of fans were treated to a series of exclusive activities under F1 Experiences, which took place for the first time in Bahrain as part of BIC and Formula One’s efforts to bring fans closer to the sport. One of those experiences was the launch of the Formula One Pirelli Hot Laps programme, where a few fans were treated to being driven around in an Aston Martin Vanquish S by Aston Martin Red Bull Racing’s official driver, Daniel Ricciardo.

Completing one lap on the Bahrain International Circuit, the lucky passengers got a driver’s eye perspective, and felt the rush of driving around a Formula One circuit in a supercar piloted by a professional racing driver. The F1 team manufacturers also gave the fans a chance to spend

time with some of the team members as well.

The event held on BIC was the first edition of the program, and will be followed by nine others throughout the year. Pirelli, the Global Tyre Partner of Formula One, provided all the tyres from a bespoke Pirelli garage in the Formula One paddock, where the amazing supercars were on display throughout the race weekend. Aston Martin was one of the first two manufacturers who participated in the debut event, and they have confirmed their participation in the ten events.

The Formula One Pirelli Hot Laps programme will give spectators, celebrities, and guests attending future Grand Prix races around the world the same extraordinary experience of going on the exciting circuits where their heroes race for glory. bahraingp.com

01 Aston Martin Red Bull Racing’s official driver, Daniel Ricciardo (second from left) posing with fellow F1 drivers 02 Lucky fans were given the chance to experience a thrilling ride in a Formula One race car 03 Aston Martin Vanquish S in action

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AUTOMOTIVE

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Driven by Luxury The latest from the world’s top luxury automotive manufacturers.

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AUTOMOTIVE

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Ferrari Portofino Capable of unleashing a massive 600 cv and sprinting from 0 to 200 km/h in just 10.8 seconds, the Ferrari Portofino is the most powerful convertible to combine the advantages of a retractable hard top, a roomy boot and generous cockpit space complete with two rear seats suitable for short trips.

The new car, which takes its name, Portofino, from one of the most charming villages on the Italian Riviera, an eponym for stylish elegance, is the most versatile model in the range. A Ferrari designed to be driven every day that also effortlessly converts from an authentic ‘berlinetta’ coupé to a drop-top capable of delivering a unique Ferrari soundtrack and superb driving pleasure even in day-to-day situations.

The retractable hard top (RHT) has been completely redesigned and can now be opened or closed in just 14 seconds on the move at lower speeds, making the car even more practical.

Careful modelling of the RHT housing now allows the luggage compartment to hold two cabin trolleys with the roof down and three with the roof up. Ideal for any occasion, the Ferrari Portofino represents the perfect combination of design, performance and technology.

The Ferrari Portofino delivers a significant weight saving with the adoption of new components using innovative designs made possible by the use of cutting-edge production techniques. This, combined with a 40 cv higher power output than the California T, has resulted in a significant hike in performance and a corresponding drop in emissions.

Vehicle dynamics benefit from the introduction,

for the first time on this model, of electric power steering, the 3rd generation electronic differential (E-Diff3) and the latest evolution of the electronic suspension control system (SCM-E) integrated with Premium 9.1 ESP. The Ferrari Design Centre-penned Portofino is an aggressively-styled car with a two-box fastback configuration – unprecedented in a coupé-convertible with a retractable hard top that adds extra sleekness to its silhouette, lending it a sportier character without impinging on its elegance and dynamism.

While the Portofino’s exterior exudes a stylish compactness and instantly marks out its GT vocation, its cabin too has also been carefully designed and developed. The Ferrari Design team pinpointed certain specific essential requirements, the foremost of these being formal and functional coherency between the car’s exterior and its interior, weight reduction and creating more space for occupants.

In line with long-standing Ferrari tradition, every single Prancing Horse engine has its own particular soundtrack that makes it unique. This is also true of the Ferrari Portofino. Aside from a new exhaust line, electronically-controlled by-pass valves have been adopted in a first for Ferrari, delivering improvements in actuation speed and precision.

The Ferrari Portofino is the new V8 GT set to dominate its segment thanks to a perfect combination of outright performance and versatility, in addition to a level of driving pleasure and on-board comfort unparalleled on the market. ferrari.com

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01 The versatile and elegant Ferrari Portofino 02 The interior is the epitome of form and function 03 The Portofino keeps the tradition of the Prancing Horse alive with its own unique sound

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04 Beauty and power combine to make an exceptionally enjoyable drive 05 From 0 to 200 km/h in just 10.8 seconds

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06

Genesis G70 Engineered as a dynamic car with strong appeal to younger customers and more enthusiastic drivers, the G70 joins the flagship G90 large sedan and mid-sized G80 and G80 Sport, once again demonstrating the commitment to excellence and authenticity that underpins the world’s newest luxury auto brand.

The Genesis G70 is the latest representation of the brand’s rapidly evolving DNA, with its graceful and dynamic exterior styling, elegant and intuitively designed interior, and choice of two different powertrains: turbocharged 3.3-liter petrol V6 and 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol I4.

The arrival of the Genesis G70 in showrooms follows a previous display presentation at the Dubai International Motor Show in November 2017, where Genesis fielded a large number of enquiries about the car. With larger G80 and G90 models already

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growing a strong base of loyal customers, it is expected the compact model will add significantly to the brand’s appeal in the competitive Middle East luxury car market.

The all-new G70 showcases the future direction of the Genesis brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design identity. This visual philosophy is represented in the exterior styling, capturing the essence of the Genesis DNA to bring to reality a superbly crafted sports sedan. The long hood and short front overhang, elegant roofline and assertive multi-spoke alloy wheels combine to form a sleek, dynamic profile, subtly highlighted by chrome aero trim, hockey stick daylight opening and parabolic sidelines. From the front and side, the prominent crest-type grille, character lines extending from the hood emblem, and pronounced air intakes, communicate muscular performance.

06 The Genesis G70, athletic and elegant 07 Sports sedan crafted to excellence 08 The sleek and dynamic profile is combined with a muscular performance

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AUTOMOTIVE

09 The G70 features distinctive daytime running lights 10 The design and performance is geared towards younger and enthusiastic demographics

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11 A choice of powertrains are available for Middle East customers 12 Simple yet functional interior

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Two distinctive linear LED DRLs on each side of the large crest grille foreshadow the future Genesis signature quad lamps. In the rear, the LED rear combination lamps continue the quad lamp theme, while the raised trunk lid and compact bumper designs give the G70 a poised character. The rear lamps, evolved from the G80, have been stretched to convey a dynamic stance.

The G70’s interior is configured to prioritize an excellent user experience, with superb fit and finish throughout. The interior packaging reflects simplicity, with an emphasis on genuine functionality instead of gimmickry. A horizontal layout brings a sense of stability, with intuitively laid out switchgear and a comfortable, assertive sport steering wheel.

The G70 offers two powertrains in the Middle East region – a 3.3-liter V6 petrol turbo and 2.0-liter I4 petrol turbo. The Lambda II 3.3-liter V6 turbo GDI engine is the heart of the enthusiastfocused G70 Sport, with 370 ps and maximum

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torque of 52.0 kg.m (510 N.m) 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 4.7 seconds, and a top speed of 270 km/h. The G70 2.0 turbo petrol model is equipped with the Theta-II 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine, with 252 ps and maximum torque of 36.0 kg.m (353 N.m).

Following the lead of the G90 and G80, the G70 offers the most comprehensive levels of safety in its class. Overall body stiffness and rigidity have been dramatically strengthened, while passengers are protected by seven airbags. An unparalleled suite of advanced driver assist systems is integrated into the ‘Genesis Active Safety Control’ package to offer the highest level of safety and convenience in its class. These include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Blind spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Driver Awareness Warning (DAW). The FCA system also automatically activates emergency braking through integrated radar-camera sensors. genesis.com

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13 The Bugatti Chiron is the ultimate in super sports car dominance 14 1500 hp on the road, a first in super sports cars history 15 Impressive on the inside and out 16 Aggressive design tones make the Chiron unique

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Bugatti Chiron The Chiron is the latest generation of the ultimate super sports car and is a completely new development. The sports car manufacturer from Molsheim, with its long tradition, has taken the unique features of a modern Bugatti to a new level and developed a high-performance machine that has become significantly better in every respect.

Bugatti had left the dimensions which define the operations of all market players and had established new paradigms that had previously not existed.

With the Chiron, Bugatti has tested the limits of physics. The Bugatti Chiron is the world’s first super sports car to bring 1,500 HP onto the road with a torque of 1.600 Nm at 2,000 to 6,000 rpm with tremendous effectiveness, extremely high safety levels and unprecedented comfort.

This is the result of the legendary and unique eight-litre W16 engine that has been newly developed by Bugatti. In combination with the

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four new, larger turbochargers that are controlled by the Bugatti two-stage turbocharging, an innovation that Bugatti is introducing, and a large number of other technical refinements and innovations, maximum performance is available constantly and can be easily controlled at all speeds. In its Top Speed mode, the car reaches the maximum speed of 420 km/h, limited for road use – however, this is by no means the end of the road for the Bugatti Chiron. With the new carbon fibre monocoque, a newly designed adaptive chassis, tyres developed especially for Bugatti and other innovative technologies, the Chiron is not only a champion in terms of maximum acceleration but is, for the first time, also an agile, modern Bugatti with handling that ensures maximum driving pleasure. The design of the Chiron combines significantly more “beast” with a very high level of “beauty”. The design language introduced by Bugatti with the Chiron

has a significantly more aggressive tone and does justice to the character of the new super sports car. The designers have succeeded in reinterpreting Bugatti’s DNA with its distinctive features in a modern manifestation at the same time as adding new features resulting from the technical demands of even higher performance.

The Chiron remains unmistakably a Bugatti.

The Chiron is the quintessential ultimate and most complete super sports car: incredibly fast, agile and powerful with a stylistically demanding design and the highest possible levels of comfort.

The Chiron is built at the company’s headquarters in Molsheim. Only 500 of these exceptional cars are to be produced. Just recently the brand celebrated the production and delivery of the 100th customer car. It went to a customer in this region. bugatti.com

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Maserati Quattroporte GTS GranSport ‘Nerissimo’ Special Edition The Maserati Quattroporte GTS GranSport ‘Nerissimo’ Special Edition car is available at official importer-dealer Euro Motors showroom in Bahrain.

Only 50 of the Limited Edition vehicles are being made specifically for the Middle East region and Japan. One of the cars is currently on display at the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra.

Black is synonymous with elegance, but also with extreme sportiness, so it perfectly captures the dual personality inherent in the Maserati DNA. From this concept, ‘Nerissimo’ was born - a special edition of Maserati cars that emphasises their assertive sporting prowess and high-performance capabilities.

The Maserati Quattroporte GranSport GTS ‘Nerissimo’ Special Edition embodies the excitement of urban night and enhances the aesthetic sportiness of the Quattroporte. Luxuriant Nero Ribelle paint combines with Black Piano finishing on the front grille, inserts on bumpers and rear extractor to create a truly unique statement.

Also getting clothed in black are the window surrounds, exhaust pipes and vertical grille bars.

The vehicle also features front and rear sport

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bumpers, body-colour side skirts, 21” glossy Black Titano wheels, anodised Red painted brake callipers and exterior Carbon package.

The interior of the car features 12-way power sport seats, full premium Black leather upholstery with Red stitching as well as Red embroidered Trident on the headrests, Carbon trim, gearshift paddles and door sills, Sport Carbon steering wheel, a dedicated interior badge ‘Nerissimo Edition One of 50’ and Alcantara headliner.

Also available through the Euro Motors showroom is the restyled 2018 Quattroporte, which retains its top status in the high-end sedan segment with power upgraded V6 versions and a new Electric Power Steering that enables the new active Advanced Driving Assistance Systems.

The MY18 Quattroporte features significant upgrades and new hi-tech content designed to carry on its remarkable success story such as 430 hp for Quattroporte S and S Q4, Increased performance for Quattroporte S and S Q4, GranLusso trim and GranSport trim, Adaptive full LED headlights, Integrated Vehicle Control,

Electric Power Steering , Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Front seat ventilation, Four-zone air conditioning, Bowers & Wilkins sound system, Soft close doors, and Extended keyless entry.

The Quattroporte now also features Adaptive full LED headlights with glare free high-beam, developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting on L-shape technology. The car can also be fitted with power-upgraded 3.0L V6 424hp engine as well, with the new, performanceenhancing Integrated Vehicle Control system (IVC), developed by Bosch in collaboration with Maserati.

The introduction of Electric Power Steering (EPS) by Maserati, enabling new Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) with active functions.

EPS has replaced hydraulic power steering on the Quattroporte, the Ghibli, as well as on the Levante, providing better handling and comfort, while retaining the razor-sharp steering feel that is typical to every Maserati. ferrari.com

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17 Elegant black and sporty design capture the Maserati DNA 18 Premium black leather upholstery with red stitching 19 The luxurious interior enhances the overall aesthetic 20 Production in Middle East and Japan will be limited to only 50 units

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Audi A8 The Audi A8 is the first production automobile in the world to have been developed for conditionally automated driving. Audi will gradually be taking piloted driving functions such as parking pilot, garage pilot and traffic jam pilot into production for the Middle East market once the legislation has been validated.

Sporty elegance, sophistication and progressive status – the exterior design of the Audi A8 marks the start of a new era for the entire brand. The front with its broad, upright Singleframe grille, the flowing and muscular body design and the rear with its fulllength light strip radiate a powerful presence – in the 5.17 meter long normal version as well as in the A8 L with its 13 centimeter longer wheelbase. The new A8 is 1.95 meters wide and 1.47 meters tall (1.49 meters in the case of the A8 L).

The interior of the A8 resembles a lavish,

spacious lounge. Compared to the predecessor model, it has grown in length by 32 millimeters in both body versions. The interior has been deliberately reduced in form, and its architecture oriented strictly horizontally.

Audi conveys its claim to high quality to the digital age with a revolutionary operating concept.

The A8 dispenses with the rotary/push-button control and touchpad of its predecessor – MMI touch becomes MMI touch response. At the center of the instrument panel is a 10.1-inch touchscreen display which, when off, blends almost invisibly into the high-gloss black surround thanks to its black-panel look. When the system is started, the user interface appears which features new, concise graphics. The menu structure is intuitive and flat, as with a modern smartphone. The user can freely arrange the icons according to their importance.

The new A8 is the world’s first production automobile to have been developed for conditional automation at level 3. On highways and multi-lane motorways with a physical barrier separating the two directions of traffic, the Audi AI traffic jam pilot handles driving in slow-moving traffic up to 60 km/h.

The system handles starting from a stop, accelerating, steering and braking in its lane. If the driver has activated the traffic jam pilot at the AI button on the center console, they can take their foot off the accelerator and release the steering wheel.

With its stylistically defining design, toprate suspension solutions, touchscreen operating concept and the electrification of all drive systems, the luxury sedan demonstrates “Vorsprung durch Technik” right across the board. audi.com

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21 The exterior ushers in a new era for Audi’s design language 22 The new A8 aims to introduce automated driving to the Middle East market 23 Lavish and spacious interior

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MUST HAVE - MEN

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

184

June 2018

Master & Dynamic Leica Silver Edition Master & Dynamic and Leica Camera continue their partnership with the 0.95 brand. The Silver Edition features two over-ear headphones and a pair of earbuds. At the top of the line is the MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones. The headphones connect to devices via Bluetooth 4.1. Along with a 16-hour rechargeable battery, the headphones sport premium stainless steel, aluminum, cowhide and lambskin memory foam ear pads. Taking cues from Leica, both options feature the signature red dot, red ear pad mesh, and custom etching and curling. masterdynamic.com

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Billionaire “Peacey” Baseball Cap This cap features 100% laminated elaphe leather skin with embroidered crest patched at front. It has 100% cotton lining and there’s also an adjustable leather strap band on the back. It’s an excellent addition to the extravagant, rich wardrobe for those who are unafraid of who they are and who they want to be. billionairecouture.com

Gucci Portfolio Ancient Florentine books inspire a collection of portfolios, decorated with metallic gold prints resembling leather-bound covers. The shape of the bag enhances this perception, with a gusseted construction that mimics pages of a book, and a print along the flap intended to appear as the spine of a book featuring the imagined title “Magnetismo”—a nod to the mysticism and surrealist undertones that run through the collection. gucci.com

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MUST HAVE - MEN

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MB&F Horological Machine No.7 ‘Aquapod’ HM7 is back in a titanium case with a green sapphire crystal bezel, limited to 50 pieces. The organic jellyfish-inspired design of HM7 Aquapod is counterbalanced by the very mechanical horology within: a central flying tourbillon tops the concentric vertical movement architecture, with indications radiating out from the centre like ripples in a pond. The 303-component, 72-hour power reserve HM7 Engine was developed in-house by MB&F. And, like many jellyfish, HM7 glows in the dark! mbandf.com

Paul Smith and Globe-Trotter Trolley Case Paul Smith has joined forces with Globe-Trotter to create the ultimate in quintessential British design – a classic trolley case with trademark Paul Smith colours and stripes. The much-loved 20” classic navy trolley case has been given the ‘Paul Smith’ treatment. Its leather corners now feature the colours of his trademark Artist Stripe, each one a different shade; navy blue, ochre, yellow and midnight black. The webbing strips, handles and chapes on the trolley are also adorned with his distinctive Artist Stripe, which was inspired by the colours of impressionist art. Limited to 120 cases. paulsmith.com

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Tom Dixon Stovetop Coffeemaker Whether you are a premium coffee addict or looking to add a touch of class to your homeware collection, Tom Dixon’s limited edition ‘Stovetop’ coffeemaker is an essential buy. It contains an Art Deco-inspired coffeemaker and four espresso cups, all made from stainless steel finished with a highly durable physical vapour-deposition coating. Its solid base and heat-resistant, easy-pour handle gives it balance and elegance, making it ideal for everyday baristas, Sunday-morning connoisseurs, and afterdinner espresso aficionados alike. tomdixon.ne

Luis Vuitton Echo Tracker Designed to go with LV’s Horizon 50, 55 and 70 ranges of suitcases, the Louis Vuitton Echo comes in two colors and promises peace of mind. It tracks luggage through an airport, on landing, and notifies travelers of its location and whether it was opened during the trip. It works with the LV Pass smartphone app, and automatically switches itself to airplane mode while flying. louisvuitton.com

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Cowboy Electric Bicycle Designed with urban commuters in mind, the Cowboy Electric Bicycle is a sleek, intelligent form of transportation. The bike features a concealed 252 WH, key-secured battery that lies in its seatpost and weighs a mere four pounds. The battery charges in under three hours and provides riders with up to 30 miles of unassisted range.

You’ll take advantage of that range with the bike’s intelligent motor assist system that senses when you need a boost while on your ride. It’s lightweight at 35 pounds, and riders can connect via the iOS/ Android app for live ride stats, built-in navigation, and GPS tracking. cowboy.bike

Teckell Stratego Scacco Collection Teckell’s dedication to crafting stylish board games shines in this new masterpiece. The chess pieces are made of lathed, extra-clear crystal cylinders, and decorated with 24k gold and chrome plated brass. It also features an extra-clear crystal top, a game surface made in thin metal, and a solid base with three options of white marble, black marble, and walnut wood. teckell.com

Supreme Rimowa X Supreme Topas Luggage The grooved aluminum suitcase has been a staple of the Rimowa lineup since 1950. It receives a bold new look in this Supreme mashup. Available in carry-on 45L and 82L versions, these Rimowa x Supreme Topas suitcases have Multiwheel rolling bodies for maneuverability, two flexible internal dividers to keep your gear sorted, and secure combination locks. Available in red or black, both with signature Supreme graphics. supremenewyork.com

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MUST HAVE - WOMEN

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

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Chopard Red Carpet Collection Feather Necklace One of the star models in the 2018 Red Carpet collection is an astonishing necklace of real feathers, inspired by the costumes and traditional skills of the peoples on the Mongolian Plateau.

In a major first for the Maison, this airy creation combines a magnificent central piece. Composed of a sculpted gold cameo adorned with volutes of blue apatites, violet garnets and red jasper – with a necklace graced with rooster, grey heron, ostrich and black pheasant feathers. chopard.com

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MCM Traveler Weekender The MCM Traveler Weekender is conventional and functional while also being a bright and bold travel companion. Designed for men and women, there are no restrictions on these easy to carry bags as they are available in medium, large, and X-large, making them perfect for those long trips away or the not-so-light travelers. Find your perfect MCM match if you prefer the classic cognac Visetos, jetblack Dieter Weekender in Monogrammed Nylon, and for a black and blue print, you can opt for the Gunta M Visetos. mcmworldwide.com

Gucci Inventum, butterfly candle A collection of scented candles is embellished with motifs of the House. A blend of wax infused with aromatic extracts and essential oils is presented in pink Richard Ginori porcelain with the Gucci logo.

The lid depicts the butterfly in flight—a symbol from the Gucci Garden that thrives among its rich world of flowers, animals and plants. The scent, Inventum, infuses the space with delicate notes of Taif’s ancient Damask rose, which set a relaxed and intimate mood. gucci.com

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Dolce & Gabbana Bijoux Collection Earrings Designed to go with LV’s Horizon 50, 55 and 70 ranges of suitcases, the Louis Vuitton Echo comes in two colors and promises peace of mind. It tracks luggage through an airport, on landing, and notifies travelers of its location and whether it was opened during the trip. It works with the LV Pass smartphone app, and automatically switches itself to airplane mode while flying. dolcegabbana.com

Gem Water Bottles VitaJuwel Vitality Gem Water Bottles are part of a fascinating ancient tradition of using gemstone infused water for its healing attributes. The VitaJuwel experience is about helping people reconnect with their innate spiritual gifts and natural healing. The 17 carefully selected gemstone blends available suit every preference and mood.

The high quality, premium glass bottle has two openings and comes with an exchangeable bottom piece (“gem pod”), filled with a selection of hand-picked gemstones. The patented gem pod is manufactured by hand in the Austrian Alps. gem-water.com

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Beoplay H4 These wireless, over-ear headphones have been made with a focus on pure essentials. Delivering acclaimed Bang & Olufsen Signature Sound, the materials consist of leather, aluminium, stainless steel and braided textile cord, all carefully selected for comfort, fit and style. They also have a generous battery life of up to 19 hours and feature Bluetooth technology, giving you uncompromising wireless sound, whether listening to music or talking on the phone for extended periods of time. beoplay.com

Bulgari B.zero 1 Ring Unconstrained by codes, the B.zero 1 reinvents the rules of jewellery design. Defying conformity with its very inspiration, Rome’s magnificent Colosseum, the unconventional jewel rocks tradition to assert Italian innovation and introduce a new classic. The collection has been reinterpreted by the late Zaha Hadid, known as the greatest woman in architecture of all times, merging geometry with fluidity. bulgari.com

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Versace Medusa Lumière Haze Decanter This smoked crystal decanter from the Medusa Lumière Haze collection is made of quality optical glass that is lead and cadmium free. Every piece is individually cut, milled and polished from the block of solid glass.

The hand-made articles differ from those produced industrially because no two pieces are ever the same.

Every piece is unique, with small variations (such as tiny bubbles or slight differences in weight) the proof and mark of the craftsmanship involved in production. versace.com

Aera Simplicity Smart Home Fragrances Aera has set out to reinvent the way scent is used in the home, to make it a simple and exquisite experience in any room. Its revolutionary technology and smartphone app make it easy to customize and control your Aera devices anytime, from anywhere.

The Aera diffuser transforms a blend of pure fragrance and essential oils into tiny, invisible scent molecules.

The scent floats effortlessly through the air, creating a unique, all-enveloping experience that no other air fresheners can recreate. The Simplicity collection contains the scents Lavender, Citrus, White Tea, Gingerlily, Cherry Blossom, Sandalwood, and Vanilla. aeraforhome.com

Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana ‘Sicily My Love’ Collection The second collaboration between Smeg and Dolce and Gabbana, the ‘Sicily My Love’ collection sees Sicilian arts using Smeg’s award winning small appliance range as their canvases, each exquisitely crafted in celebration of the rich Italian heritage of both brands. Each item in the ‘Sicily is my Love’ collection has been expertly decorated with quintessential Sicilian motifs; gold lemons and citrus fruits, prickly pears and bold, bright cherries. These are framed in traditional triangular Sicilian decorations known as ‘crocchi’. Each model also boasts a selection of delicate floral designs inspired by the coasts and landscapes of southern Italy and Mount Etna, surrounded by ornamental friezes and decorative leaf motifs. smeg.com

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BOOK REVIEW

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June 2018

Equine Treasures Gabriele Boiselle captures the splendor of the Arabian Horse

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In commemoration of the Bahrain Animal Production Show 2018 (BAPS 2018), Miracle Publishing, together with world-renowned equestrian photographer Gabriele Boiselle, have curated a collection of captivating images that tell the story of Bahrain’s unique and fascinating equestrian heritage. Combining remarkable imagery with poetic verses, Equine Treasures highlights the strength and beauty of the Kingdom’s prized horses and the country’s historic relationship with them.

The book begins with a foreword from HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, in which he shares his appreciation for the support that animals, particularly horses, have provided in molding the success of the Middle East. He points out that this

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is where the Kingdom’s dedication and allegiance to the magnificent Arabian horse began, and why continuing to preserve its heritage is so important.

This heartfelt message paves the way for an expressive collection of artfully chosen images that present the distinctive characteristics of the five strains or families that father the pure breed Arabian horse and the commitments taken on to preserve it.

Photographing the beautiful beasts in various natural settings, Gabriele has tenderly captured the essence of the Arabian horse and portrayed each breed’s unique traits. Split into 17 sections, most of which start with a poetic verse that provides an insight into the nature of the upcoming images, the collection showcases the unique blend of mental

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“Photographing the beautiful beasts

in various natural settings, Gabriele has tenderly captured the essence of the Arabian horse and portrayed each breed’s unique traits.”

and physical attributes, combined with the beauty, strength and stamina that each pure breed Arabian horse exudes.

Once appreciated for their ability to withstand the unbearable conditions of the desert terrain, the Arabian horse is now more commonly admired for its ability to excel in racing, show jumping and events, all of which are enthusiastically practiced across the Middle East. Gabriele contrasts blurry images of rapid action, conveying strength and speed, with intimate close up shots of the animal’s eyes to establish a deep connection with the reader.

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As you travel through the pages it becomes clear why the Kingdom of Bahrain is so dedicated to preserving and protecting its unique equine heritage. The undeniable emotion and rich respect between humans and horses is conveyed evocatively through the entirety of the book.

The name Equine Treasures is a truly appropriate name for a collection of images that will undoubtedly be treasured for offering an insight into the importance of preserving cultural heritage and man’s emotional connection with these graceful creatures of the desert.

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FINAL PEARL

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Disney on Ice

Bahrain Summer Festival 2018

Kids and grown-ups alike are in for a treat as Disney visits Bahrain! Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Daisy on a journey to Disney’s magical worlds of The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Peter Pan and Frozen. Explore the Pride Lands with Simba, dive into Ariel’s underwater kingdom, fly to Neverland with Peter Pan, and join Anna, Elsa and Olaf’s quest to discover the most magical power of all. Spectators will also have the chance to warm up at the preshow featuring Zootropolis! Upbeat music and unforgettable moments will make this an experience that all family members will cherish forever.

Produced by Felt Entertainment, Disney on Ice combines the incredible talents of world-class ice skaters and heartwarming Disney stories, lavish costumes, dazzling lighting, and enchanting music to create an extraordinary show for families around the world. Each year, a new production of Disney On Ice is created to bring favorite Disney characters to families around the world.

Organised by Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure will take place at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre from the 16th to the 20th of June.

The 10th edition of the Bahrain Summer Festival is returning with a thrilling consecutive twomonth program! The annual festival, which has become one of the most anticipated events throughout the region due to its reputation of exciting lineups of live shows and multi-cultural family-friendly entertainment, will be filled with various performances along with artistic activities and creative workshops.

Launched in 2009, the annual festival is part of a wider strategic initiative aimed at boosting the Kingdom’s position as a regional cultural tourist destination. This year’s edition will be Held under the slogan “Muharraq Capital of Islamic Culture”.

Located in Nakhool Tent at the historical Arad Fort, Bahrain Summer 2018 will offer a variety of children’s activities and workshops from 18th June to 18th August. Nakhool and Nakhoola, the adventurous duo and faces of Nakhool Tent, will welcome all families and friends daily from 5pm to 9pm except Sundays.

Along with the company of the beloved duo comes an exhilarating program for all ages, open to the public for free entry.

disneyonicebh.com

bahrainsummer.bh

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