FACT Abu Dhabi April 2015 by Fact ME

April 2015 VOL 1. ISSUE 11 AED 10

THE BODY ISSUE THE ULTIMATE A TO Z GUIDE TO GET YOUR SUMMER BODY

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DIARY DAtes

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THE EDITOR FACT Magazine Abu Dhabi Edition April 2015 Volume 1, Issue 11

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn.

ne of my favourite film scenes is from Pitch Perfect when Rebel Wilson is sprawled over chairs whilst her fellow

acapella ladies are running laps up and down the stairs. “I’m horizontal running,” she says! THAT, is so me.

Though I went through a period of time when I lived at the gym, nowadays it’s all about Friday brunches, catching up on the latest TV series, and lazy days by

front.indd 1

3/26/15 3:44 PM

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@factlive.com) Group Regional Editor Tony Sidgwick (tony@factlive.com)

the pool. So, I needed the body issue just as much as any of you out there who to Z guide to Get Your Summer Body on p31. This is our round up of delicious

Creative Director Paula Leal

healthier. Remember, exercise to be fit, eat well to nourish your body, and trust

Graphic Designer Jyoti Rawat

super foods, fun exercises, and other steps that you can take to becoming the process!

If the gym has you bored and it’s new and exciting ways that you’re

looking for to keep fit, then read all about the latest sports craze in town –

Photography Rashed Bin Daina Sunder Pratap Singh

might just be your new favourite way to keep fit (p39). If you prefer to get your

Production & Distribution Neil Mahmood Ajit Kumar

and wellness retreats around the world, there are some seriously cool places for

Advertising Sales Manager Mohammed Sahim

skateboarding. We caught up with UAE-based Swedish skater Adam Sahlstedt who tells us why picking up a board and heading to your nearest skate park health boost from a vacay then turn to p51 for our picks of the best fitness everything from adventure, detox, relaxation, and weight loss.

When all the body talk is said and done, there’s so much more to read

about in FACT this month. For me, something that will be high on the list

Regional Key Account Manager Chelsea Copenhaver

of best journo moments – easily in my top five - happened just a few weeks

Advertising Enquiries Email: sahim@factlive.com

Wolfgang Puck, when he visited the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay to open three

Printed By United Printing Press

ago. We were invited for a one-on-one exclusive chat with world famous chef, new restaurants. Read the interview on p20 – he was an absolute delight! Of course, the biggest and most anticipated event of the month is

going to be our very own FACT Dining Awards (we’re SO looking forward to

revealing the winners, who will all be featured in the May issue!). If you haven’t already voted, head to www.fact-magazine.com/awards to have your say.

I have made a promise to restart my gym schedule (it’s going to happen,

for real), what healthy change will you be making this month? Tweet us

@FACTAbuDhabi with your health and fitness goals. Let’s be each other’s motivation. Summer body, here I come...

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@factlive.com

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THE BODY ISSUE THE ULTIMATE A TO Z GUIDE TO GET YOUR SUMMER BODY

Features Editor Pallavi Ramesh (editorial@factlive.com)

are looking to get back into shape, the healthy way. Check out our ultimate A

APRIL 2015 VOL 1. ISSUE 11 AED 10

Summer Body Ready

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. FZ-LLC cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O. Box 769328, Abu Dhabi, UAE License Number: D.L. 361/14/A

Twitter: @FACTAbuDhabi Instagram: @factmagazine

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dining and all the coolest events in the city | FIX UP, LOOK SHARP FACT DINING AWARDS 2015

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Find FACT’s dapper designer chilling somewhere in this issue and you could Win an AED300 dinner & drinks voucher for the beautiful Beach House Rooftop at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas. Enjoy refreshing cocktails & lounge music! Email editorial@factlive.com with the page number you think he’s on, and your contact details! Good Luck!

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Indulge in fine Italian cuisine at the highly acclaimed Bocca. Overlooking the bustling Corniche, Bocca offers a warm Italian welcome and some of the best Italian cuisine in the city. Lunch 12pm-3.30pm & D i n n e r 7 p m - 1 1 p m

for bookings

Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, abudhabi.hilton.com, +971 2 681 1900

02 692 4247 abudhabi.info@hilton.com

This award winning restaurant will be sure to take you on a culinary journey. Choose to dine inside or outside on the deck and enjoying spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. Lunch 12pm-3.30pm Dinner 7pm-11pm

for bookings

02 692 4247

Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, abudhabi.hilton.com, +971 2 681 1900

abudhabi.info@hilton.com fact magazine

CHECK IT OUT

FAct FInDs

The Jamila Discover more of Abu Dhabi with FACT Finds. Every month we’ll bring you a new hotspot, our favourite happening, eatery, activity, or interesting find from around the city.

The GCC region is booming with creative individuals who have pursued entrepreneurial projects to create their own small business. This month we came across an interesting beauty venture on instagram – The Jamila – offering clean, green beauty products for ladies who love to look after their skin! Started by 29-year-old Reem Ahmed, The Jamila was created out of a pursuit of healthy beauty products. Reem has battled various forms of eczema, atopic dermatitis and allergies that inflame the skin. Hence, her love affair with commercial skincare brands took a downward turn and Reem was forced to do her own research and pursue products that were better suited to her skin. What she learned was eye-opening; some brands still tested on animals, others were full of toxins, whilst many were misleading customers about the type and amount of nutrients and ingredients in their products. Reem thought it was time to take matters into her own hands and get back to basics. After discovering a whole world of sophisticated beauty brands that were purely organic and all natural, and especially as these worked well for her, she wanted to share her findings with the GCC region and so The Jamila was born. The Jamila, based out of Bahrain, is a virtual store that caters to people’s beauty needs with the sourcing and selling of organic, all natural, ethical beauty brands. There’s a no toxins policy on all the products sold on The Jamila, which has now started shipping to the UAE and Qatar too. Reem’s mission is to bring the finest in organic, all natural, ethical beauty to the masses. Check out The Jamila online at www.thejamila.com where you can pick up products by excellent brands like Egyptian Magic, Très Pure, Kahina Giving Beauty, Prtty Peaushun, Herbivore Botanicals. GO: Follow @thejamilaofficial on instagram and visit www.thejamila.com to browse and buy beauty products on offer. 10

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LISTEN UP

Revamped Destination Website Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is hoping to inspire more travellers to experience Abu Dhabi’s expanding tourism products portfolio with a revamped visitabudhabi.ae website showcasing many of the emirate’s best experiences, hotels and restaurants.

Developed by TCA Abu Dhabi, the website’s new design includes around 300,000 words and 4,000 images in support of different products and experiences that can be enjoyed across a number of the most commonly requested information categories. Mouza Al Shamsi, TCA Abu Dhabi Acting Executive Director, Marketing & Communications, says: “The website’s overhaul would help better connect the consumer with the emirate by providing ‘inspirational experiences’ which consumers could enjoy and book. We constantly strive to make our digital marketing platforms engaging and informative, and with these latest improvements, have now become much more responsive to our customers. “With this new site we can now showcase the destination through thematic experiences that reflect our diversity in landscape, culture, heritage, attractions and accommodation referring consumers directly to our industry 12

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partners. From the outset, the brief was to make the site more inspiring and visually appealing, and capitalise on the latest trends in digital engagement,” she adds. The exciting new online look, incorporating a mobile-friendly, responsive design also features the latest user interface techniques, and TripAdvisor reviews are embedded to attraction and hotel listings information to reflect user generated content allowing users to share impartial advice on the site. A new mash-up map - a single graphical interface that uses content from more than one source to create a single information reference - collates nearby points of interests, hotels, restaurants and attractions, spas and events allowing users to learn and experience more when visiting or researching things to see and do. The new information architecture highlighting what to see and do, where to stay and how to explore the emirate has been rolled out in nine language versions (Arabic,

English, Brazilian-Portuguese, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Russian). The website’s multilingual hotel, flight and car rental search engine with real-time results from multiple booking engines remains, along with its trip planner facility which allows travellers to plan their journey to Abu Dhabi in advance, and share their itinerary ideas with their friends. Conceived with travellers’ needs in mind, VisitAbuDhabi.ae is a one-stop-shop for tourists who want to explore the emirate, giving them easy access to interact with extensive, dynamic information on Abu Dhabi’s attractions and experiences, culture and heritage, events and recreation activities.

GO: Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae online to check out all the new changes.

Your time to reconnect

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LISTEN UP

Sustaining Identity After a very high standard of submissions, 17 artists have been selected for their response to Tashkeel’s open call for the upcoming exhibition ‘Sustaining Identity.’ Showcasing original works, each piece is an interpretation to the theme, selected for diversity, medium choice, origins and ideas. The exhibition will run until April 30 at Tashkeel, Nad Al Sheba. Taking sustainability as its premise, the exhibition’s themology questions what it is that sustains an artist’s practice. Key works touch on the processes of collecting, archiving and documenting our changing environment and sustaining artistic practice within the context of the UAE—as all artists live and work in the emirates, which was part of the call for submission. Tamsin Wildy, Tashkeel Studio Manager, says: “This exhibition presents methods of sustainability which surround us daily as artists and how, through artistic practice we can further our explorations and experimentations. “Tashkeel aims to continue the consciousness of sustainability and identify our existence as an integral part of a sustainable city,” she adds. The multi-disciplinary exhibition presents a selection of works composed of found materials, solar prints using indigenous plants, installations, painting and photographic and sculptural works. Artists include Abir Mnasria & Zaina Khayyat, Afra AlDhaheri, Alia Dawood, Bob Dahm, Collective W.I.N., Colleen Quigley, Fatima AlBudoor, Hasnat Mehmood, Jeff Scofield, Jonny Farrow, Karee S Dahl, Maitha Demithan, Naz Sharokh, Saher Oliver Samman, Tom Baggaley and Zlatan Filipovic. GO: Sustaining Identity exhibition will run until April 30 at Tashkeel, Nad Al Sheba. Call (0)4 336 3313 for more information. 14

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REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

DIARY DATES For those of you thinking of jetting off around the region this month, we’ve rounded up some of the best events for you to check out in our neighbouring nations…

BahRaIn

DuBaI

qaTaR

WHERE La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art WHEN Runs until June 30

WHERE Dubai World Trade Centre WHEN April 9 to 11

WHERE VCU Qatar WHEN Runs until April 21

Imagine being in a room with 25 of the most exciting artists working in the Middle East today. Such is the experience offered by Encounters, an exhibition by Syrian-American photographer Sueraya Shaheen, featuring a collection of documentary-style portraits of some of the leading lights of the region’s art world. If photography is your thing then it’s well worth planning a weekend away to Bahrain for this beautiful expo.

Dubbed the Middle East’s biggest pop culture festival, MEFCC is going to be packed with stars during the mega 3-day event in Dubai. From celebrities to industry guests, international artists and cosplayers, there’s SO much fun to be had here! Guests include Karl Urban, William Shatner, Kelly Hu and other famous names who will be there to share their experiences and answer questions as well as meet and greet fans.

Doha’s art scene is stepping up this month with a fantastic exhibition at VCU Qatar. Held in association with the British Council, this exhibition is based on David Batchelor’s recent solo exhibition shown at Fruitmarket Gallery, Edinburgh, and Spike Island, Bristol. If you’re taking the short flight over and happen to a great appreciator of art, then make sure this one’s on your list of places to visit.

Encounters Exhibition

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Middle East Film & Comic Con

Flatlands Remix

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Let us offer you Arabian hospitality at its finest.

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Let us teach you about our rich Qatari heritage. Let us wrap you in luxury and comfort. Let us keep a place in your heart.

Sharq Village & Spa is a novel contrast harking back to the past and offering a memorable experience for visitors seeking a destination resort with an exceptional sense of place. Enjoy deluxe accommodations and daily breakfast for two. Starting at QAR 1695 per night. For reservations, call +974-4425-6666 or visit us at ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage.

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HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About This Month in Abu Dhabi

Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with happenings just for you! This is what FACT recommends (you can still find more throughout the mag!).

8 10 13 15 17

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

SPRING FESTIVAL 2015 at The Galleria

VIEW FROM Inside at Emirates Palace Gallery

GIRO D’ ITALIA at Porto Bello Grand Millennium

BUSINESS LUNCH at Circo,InterContinental

UAE JET SKI Race at Corniche Breakwater

It’s your last chance to join in the fun festivities down at The Galleria. Meet & greets with local artists & talent, attend inspirational forums & workshops with top entrepreneurs & wander the bespoke fashion and jewellery exhibitions.

As part of Abu Dhabi Festival, the internationally acclaimed FotoFest comes to the Middle East for the first time, exploring the very best of Arab photography, video and photo-based installation art. Well worth checking out!

If you love Italian food, you’ll want to check this out for dinner. Take a culinary adventure across Italy and explore flavours and authentic cuisine inspired by Emilia Romagna, at Porto Bello in Grand Millennium Al Wahda – sounds yum!

Head for a delicious Business Lunch a la Toscana and enjoy Chef Luca’s speciallydesigned set menu served in the playful atmosphere reminiscent of traditional European circus tents, served from 12noon to 4pm. AED103++.

Get down to the beautiful Corniche today and watch on as the world’s best jet ski racers thrill water sport fans and beach goers whilst riding the waves in competition. The race is divided into seven classes and allows competitors to compete at their own level. Call

Visit www.thegalleria.ae for more information.

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Visit www.abudhabifestival.ae for more information.

Visit Call (0)2 495 3890 for more information.

Call (0) 2 666 6888 for more information.

(0)2 681 5566 for more information.

19 21 232528

SUNDAY

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

SATURDAY

TUESDAY

SUSHI NIGHT at AquariumYas Island

CITYSCAPE Abu Dhabi at ADNEC

DINE OUT AT Ray’s Grill, Jumeirah Etihad Towers

ROBBIE WILLIAMS Live Concert at du Arena

ORCHESTRA ACCADEMIA at Emirates Palace

Tease your taste buds with Sushi Sundays! Enjoy all you can eat Sushi for only AED99! With great views & ambiance and amazing sushi, Aquarium promises to offer you beautiful Sunday evenings, from 7pm to 11pm. Visit www.yasmarina.ae

Uniting local, regional, and international real estate professionals under one roof, this is where developers, consultants, architects, designers and investors have the opportunity to meet and discuss the city’s expansion.

Situated on Level 63, guests can dine against a backdrop of panoramic city views, making this one of the most inspirational and romantic restaurant settings in the emirate. Try signature grills and delicious drinks for dinner, served 7pm to 11.30pm.

The British singer brings his ‘Let Me Entertain You’ tour to our shores. Treating his fans to all the classic favourites like Angels, Rock DJ, She’s The One, Millennium, and more huge international hits, Robbie will surely put on a memorable performance.

Milan’s highly acclaimed Scala Academy orchestra comes to Abu Dhabi with one of today’s top young conductors, Mikhail Tatarnikov, music director of the legendary Mikhailovsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia.

for more information.

Visit www.cityscapeabudhabi. com for more information.

Call (0)2 811 5666 for more information.

Visit www.tickets.robbiewilliams. com for tickets.

Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more information.

fact magazine

MEET

Wolfgang Puck 20

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CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

THE FACT TEAM SAT DOWN WITH CHEF WOLFGANG PUCK ON HIS VISIT TO BAHRAIN.

He has well and truly conquered the world of professional cooking and now he’s treating foodies with brand-new restaurants at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay. FACT sits down for a one-on-one with the culinary master himself, Celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck, to learn more about his restaurants, pick up some cooking tips, and find out exactly what it’s like to have prepared the Oscars menu for the past 21 years… Describe each of your venues at Four Seasons Bahrain Bay? At Four Seasons we have two main concepts, one is called CUT – which is a modern American steakhouse, mainly serving meat from all over the world. We prepare a lot on the wood-fire grill, with side dishes. Below CUT we have a lounge, where you can come and hang out and have light appetisers like crab rolls, mini burgers, and salads. On the 50th floor with a spectacular view we have our Chinese-style restaurant ‘re Asian’. I love all sorts of Asian cuisines mainly because of the spices and to me it’s interesting. So this restaurant serves dumplings, steamed fish, meat, chicken, and more. It is really a modern Chinese restaurant with western-style service. We also have a lounge area that is more easygoing and is done up in a Moroccan style. Tips for preparing the perfect steak… Like every other dish, it really starts with the ingredients - it is really important to get the right cut. For me, before cooking the steak you have to let it sit outside and bring it to room temperature; you don’t want to put it onto the grill right out of the refrigerator. The meat should not be frozen,

it should be fresh and it has to be aged. For example, we age American beef for 35 days, sometimes 40 days. I like to season it with a little sea salt, pepper and olive oil, and grill it. I love French Fries and Onion Rings with it. So, the main thing with the steak is, once you grill it the way you like it; I like it medium rare, you let it rest a little. Don’t take it off the grill and cut it, leave it for 5 to 10 minutes, so that the juices don’t come out when you cut into it. How would you define fine dining? Fine dining is such a funny title, because fine dining is great quality like fine clothes, you don’t say fine clothes – you say chic clothes, or elegant clothes. Our restaurants are upscale dining as we use the best ingredients. I want people to have fun; I want them to have a good time. We play rock ‘n’ roll music! If you like good food, you need to have a good ambience. For me the only serious thing should be on the plate the rest should be fun! What inspires you to keep cooking after so many years in the industry? I love cooking, I just love the process of

cooking. I get inspired while I am working, doing things. To me I still love going to the fish market, like yesterday we went to the farm. I love the process of getting the best ingredients and cooking and enhancing them to create something special. Maybe if I had just one restaurant and did the same thing everyday, it might feel different, but I do a lot of things. Like recently we developed an oven where you can cook a 7kg turkey in 55 minutes! You’ve been preparing the Oscars menu for the past 21 years – is there pressure when cooking for celebrities? It is not a pressure cooking for celebrities, I know most of them and I know what they like to eat. Like Barbara Streisand; she saw me in the restaurant in LA and asked me “Wolfgang are you going to make the Chicken Pot Pie like last year” and I fact magazine

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

RaPID FIRE 01. The one food or drink you couldn’t live without… Coffee. if I don’t get coffee in the morning I wouldn’t do anything. 02. Your favourite holiday destination for good food... Spain. 03. Your three favourite healthy ingredients… Vegetables, Pasta, Fish. 04. Favourite cheap eat? I do not like American fast food. If you go to Asia or Singapore, they have some great street food.

said, “for sure, I will make it.” At that point in time I had not even thought of preparing that dish, but everybody loves it! At the Oscars you will find so much; the seafood stations, sushi bar, all the best things. But somehow they love the homely Chicken Pot Pie. There are some Signature dishes we prepare every year; like the Chocolate Oscar with 24-carat gold, Smoked Salmon cut-out in the shape of the Oscar and now, I guess, the Chicken Pot Pie will be a signature too! As a world-famous chef, what matters more – taste or presentation? Say, when you look for a boyfriend the first thing you want is someone handsome, but if they have no heart, no brain, it gets boring. You might as well have somebody who is not as good looking but has a good heart, good sense of humour and is smart. With food it is the same! It is amazing to have great looking food, but when you eat it, if it doesn’t taste as good as it looks then there’s no point. Of course, there are times when you get both together, but with some dishes it is not the same. If I had to choose it would be the taste. What’s the greatest honour or compliment you’ve received as a chef? My greatest compliment in a 22

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05. One drink that’s your kryptonite… Cook’s Champagne. 06. Last movie you watched… On the way here, it was Foxcatcher. 07. The most famous person you’ve cooked for… The President and The Queen of England.

restaurant is when people finish dinner, and when they head out, they stop at the main desk and make their next reservation. That’s what makes me happy. We have created a regular clientele, and that’s important. What’s your favourite sauce? It depends on the steak you eat, with different parts of the meat, different sauces work. For example a fillet is very lean so you can have a richer sauce with it. If you have a New York steak or Rib eye, it’s rich by itself so you can have the béarnaise sauce. For Tenderloin I like pepper sauce it is perfect! You’re a busy man – TV shows, book launches, restaurant openings – do you still enjoy the grind? I love to be with and around people, in the kitchen, with the farmers growing vegetables, with the guys at the fish market. I’d much rather go there, than a fancy mall and look at clothes. Food is my life.

08. Anyone you want to cook for? The Pope.

@WolfgangBuzz

A top 5 global university in the heart of the Gulf OUR PROGRAMMES Archaeology of the Arab and Islamic World MA Library and Information Studies MA Museum and Gallery Practice MA Conservation Studies MSc Diploma in Academic Research and Methods

fact magazine

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

GET BuSy WITh

SEan Paul He’s had the world under a dancehall spell for the past decade, and now, for the first time, he’s coming to Bahrain. That’s right, Sean Paul will take to the stage at Klub 360 during F1 weekend to have all the party-goers getting their dutty wine on! FACT caught up with the worldfamous artist to find out what fans can expect at the mid-April event…

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Hi Sean! It’s been 15 years since the release of your debut album Stage One – how has your style and approach to making music developed over the years? I’ve always been mindful to stay true to my dancehall sound and continue to fly the flag as a reggae ambassador, so I don’t think my approach has changed that much, except now I collaborate with a lot of international artists and producers who bring their interpretations of dancehall to the mix. What do you look for in an artist when it comes to collabs, and is there anyone that you really want to work with? I’ve always wanted to work with Alicia Keys. Also, I love Ellie Goulding’s voice.

I’m open to working with a lot of different artistes. I just did a collabo with Farruko from Puerto Rico and J Balvin from Colombia and, of course, the massive ‘Bailando’ with Enrique Iglesias last year so I’m heavy into Latin collabs right now. What are you most looking forward to about performing in Bahrain? I love the Middle East - the reaction from my fans there is always hype and the food is always amazing! I’ve never been to Bahrain before so I’m looking forward to meeting them. We can’t wait to see you on stage – can you give us a sneak peek into the performance? I’ll be doing my usual high energy show filled with all my hits but I’d love to hear what the fans over there would want to hear so hit me up on my Instagram or Twitter at @duttypaul. Your most memorable moment from your music career to date… My most memorable moment in my music career to date has to be every day in the studio. Just joking! There are so many different ones. Being on my first stage show in Jamaica, doing my first song, working with big artists such as Beyoncé for the first time, so there’s too much to choose one. I’m just very thankful for this career and thanks to the fans for following me all these years. Who are your musical heroes and why are these figures particularly inspiring? One of them, and who I’ve always spoken about, is Bob Marley. I think that he is a prolific writer, a prolific musician in himself and his songs are lasting 40 years now in terms of being felt by generations down the road. He’s a very prolific person in that respect. His uncompromising, unwavering faith that he had is somebody with a real conviction in life and puts it into his music which helps to evolve the world. I really think that he is a great ambassador for his country, for the music and for his faith. Other influences, I like hip-hop a lot but I think that dancehall influences me a lot more. I would say big up to artists like Papa San, who had the

Guinness World Book Record at the time when I was growing up in about 1989 where he was the fastest rapper alive, in terms of having the most words in a song, ever. I really looked up to his style, even though he is a different kind of artist right now, I still think he’s a very potent artist even though he is a Christian rapper right now, so big up to him. Any advice for upcoming musicians? Before you try and make it in the world, try and make it on your block, make it in your city, make it in your country. Make sure you stay true to who you are musically, surround yourself with good people and that music is a lot of work. It may look like a bed of roses but you have to be disciplined and you have to have a good work ethic. Don’t expect to make it overnight. You have a huge international fan base, have you got a message for them? Thank you for following me all these years – to my fan base – without the fans

I wouldn’t be here. Being that my career has spanned so long I have to give thanks to them and to God. What’s coming up for you in 2015? I’ve been recording a lot in 2014, and I’ve quite a few songs coming out this year. We’re presently shooting videos and there are some more productions being worked on too for later this year. I also have a lot of songs personally, as singles, to drop, so I’m also looking forward to doing that. A lot of studio work and pin-pointing to break into new markets. Different songs will work in different genres and different markets!

Go: Fly to Bahrain with Gulf Air - www.gulfair.com. Sean Paul will perform at Klub 360 at Elite Crystal Hotel on April 17th during the 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix weekend. Tickets are priced at BD50 for men and BD35 for women. Call +973 3602 5360 for bookings and more information.

fact magazine

FACT AWARDS

Fact DInInG aWarDs 2015 The inaugural FACT Dining Awards will take place in April, celebrating the city’s best and favourite restaurants, cafes, lounges, bars and pubs. We bring you all the 2015 nominees...

InternatIonal

MeDIterranean

steaKhoUse

traDer VIc’s, BeAcH RotAnA choIces, YAs IsLAnD RotAnA

GIornotte, tHe RItz-cARLton ABU

the FoUnDrY, soUtHeRn sUn ABU DHABI

cUIscene, FAIRMont BAB AL BAHR MarKet KItchen,

UrBan KItchen, DUsIt tHAnI ABU DHABI

leMon tree, HoLIDAY Inn ABU DHABI saFIna, sAADIYAt BeAcH cLUB Beach hoUse, PARK HYAtt ABU DHABI HoteL & VILLAs aZUr, AL RAHA BeAcH HoteL olÉa, ResoRt

ItalIan

French

FranKIe’s, FAIRMont BAB AL BAHR aMalFI PaPPaGallo, Le MeRIDIen ABU DHABI sPaccanaPolI, cRoWne PLAzA ABU DHABI VIlla toscana, Porto Bello, GRAnD MILLennIUM AL WAHDA cIPrIanI

cornIche all DaY DInInG, soFIteL ABU DHABI coRnIcHe BrasserIe anGelIQUe, JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs recharGe Bar, noVoteL AL BUstAn BentleY BIstro & Bar, tHe GALLeRIA BorD eaU, sHAnGRI-LA QARYAt AL BeRI

InGreDIents, eAsteRn MAnGRoVes HoteL & sPA BY AnAntARA

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Boa steaKhoUse, eAsteRn MAnGRoVes PRoMenADe 55&5th, the GrIll, sAADIYAt IsLAnD roDeo GrIll, BeAcH RotAnA Marco PIerre WhIte, FAIRMont BAB AL BAHR the Meat co., soUK QARYAt AL BeRI ParK Bar & GrIll, PARK HYAtt ABU DHABI HoteL & VILLAs

JaPanese torI no sU, JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs KaZU, YAs VIceRoY KoI sAADIYAt IsLAnD sho cho, soUQ QARYAt AL BeRI

FACT AWARDS

seaFooD saYaD, eMIRAtes PALAce FInZ BeAcH RotAnA FIshMarKet, InteRcontInentAL ABU DHABI Pearls & caVIar, sHAnGRI-LA QARYAt AL BeRI saFIna sAADIYAt BeAcH cLUB scott’s JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs

chInese shanG Palace, sHAnGRI-LA QARYAt AL BeRI haKKasan, eMIRAtes PALAce P.F. chanG’s, YAs MALL lI JIanG, GRAnD cAnAL roUGe, HILton cAPItAL GRAnD

soUth east asIan cho Gao, cRoWne PLAzA ABU DHABI nooDle BoX, YAs VIceRoY teatro PARK RotAnA sontaYa, roYal orchID, HILton ABU DHABI toshI, GRAnD MILLennIUM AL WAHDA

thaI

MIDDle eastern

north aMerIcan

BenJaronG, DUsIt tHAnI ABU DHABI PachaYlen eAsteRn MAnGRoVes HoteL & sPA BY AnAntARA talaY, Le MeRIDIen ABU DHABI sIlK & sPIce, soFIteL ABU DHABI coRnIcHe leMonGrass, VARIoUs LocAtIons

BaroUK, cRoWne PLAzA YAs IsLAnD KahraMan, soUtHeRn sUn ABU DHABI roZanah, YAs MARInA lI BeIrUt, JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs saMBUseK RoseWooD ABU DHABI MIJana GRAnD cAnAL

t.G.I FrIDaY’s, VARIoUs LocAtIons reDstar BIstro, VARIoUs LocAtIons caraMel restaUrant & loUnGe IsLAnD chIlI’s VARIoUs LocAtIons stars ‘n’ Bars, YAs IsLAnD

InDIan

latIn aMerIcan

all-DaY DInInG

Ushna, tHe soUQ QARYAt-AL BeRI sPIce Mela, RoseWooD ABU DHABI anGar YAs VIceRoY aVasa InDIan KItchen, tHe coLLectIon PePPerMIll eAsteRn MAnGRoVes PRoMenADe InDIGo, BeAcH RotAnA

chaMas, InteRcontInentAL ABU DHABI noche, HILton cAPItAL GRAnD ABU DHABI aMerIGos, IsLAnD el soMBrero, sHeRAton ABU DHABI HoteL & ResoRt taQaDo tHe GALLeRIA

al WahDa all DaY DInInG, GRAnD MILLennIUM AL WAHDA PePPer all DaY DInInG, noVoteL AL BUstAn GInGer, PARK RotAnA caFÉ PalMIer, Le RoYAL MeRIDIen sIlK roUte, HoLIDAY Inn ABU DHABI JInG asIa, cRoWne PLAzA YAs IsLAnD fact magazine

FACT AWARDS

conteMPorarY eUroPean catalan, RoseWooD ABU DHABI le BIstrot, Le MeRIDIen ABU DHABI saFIna, sAADIYAt BeAcH cLUB stIlls, cRoWne PLAzA YAs IsLAnD etoIles, eMIRAtes PALAce

tea rooM oBserVatIon DecK 300, JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs le caFÉ, eMIRAtes PALAce tea loUnGe, coRnIcHe alBa, cAnAL the lIBrarY, PARK HYAtt ABU DHABI HoteL & VILLAs

Bar/loUnGe PUB

coFFee hoUse

caPtaIn’s arMs, Le MeRIDIen ABU DHABI heroes, cRoWne PLAzA ABU DHABI Porters, GRAnD MILLennIUM AL WAHDA McGettIGans, AL RAHA BeAcH HoteL PJ o’reIllY’s, Le RoYAL MeRIDIen cooPer’s Bar, PARK RotAnA heMInGWaY’s, HILton ABU DHABI

tIM horton’s, VARIoUs LocAtIons costa, VARIoUs LocAtIons MUGG & Bean, VARIoUs LocAtIons GlorIa Jean’s, VARIoUs LocAtIons the coFFee clUB, VARIoUs LocAtIons starBUcKs, VARIoUs LocAtIons

In-Mall PaUl caFÉ, VARIoUs LocAtIons BentleY BIstro & Bar, tHe GALLeRIA shaKesPeare & co., YAs MALL the cheescaKe FactorY, YAs MALL carlUccIo’s, VARIoUs LocAtIons KoseBasI

PoolBar nahaaM, JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs shaMs Pool Bar, RADIsson BLU YAs IsLAnD the Pool DecK. eAsteRn MAnGRoVes HoteL & sPA BY AnAntARA BreeZe, DUsIt tHAnI ABU DHABI shaDes Pool Bar, tHe WestIn ABU DHABI GoLF ResoRt & sPA Pool Bar, noVoteL ABU DHABI GAte 28

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FrIDaY BrUnch BUBBalIcIoUs FrIDaY BrUnch, tHe WestIn ABU DHABI GoLF ResoRt & sPA FrIDaY MarIna BrUnch, InteRcontInentAL ABU DHABI FrIDaY BrUnch at orIGIns, YAs VIceRoY FIZZY FrIDaY BrUnch, sHeRAton ABU DHABI HoteL & ResoRt MarKet KItchen, Le RoYAL MeRIDIen ABU DHABI GIornotte, GRAnD cAnAL

stars ‘n’ Bars, YAs IsLAnD BelGIan caFÉ, InteRcontInentAL ABU DHABI stIlls, cRoWne PLAzA YAs IsLAnD raY’s Bar, JUMeIRAH At etIHAD toWeRs JaZZ Bar & DInInG, HILton ABU DHABI Y-Bar, YAs IsLAnD RotAnA

FaMIlY-FrIenDlY FrIDaY BrUnch seVIlla, AL RAHA BeAcH HoteL sIlK roUte, HoLIDAY Inn ABU DHABI FrIDaY BrUnch, BeAcH RotAnA JInG asIa, cRoWne PLAzA YAs IsLAnD FrIDaY FaIrMont BrUnch, FAIRMont BAB AL BAHR soFra BlD, sHAnGRI-LA QARYAt AL BeRI

neWcoMer caFe Jones the Grocer, VARIoUs LocAtIons BrasserIe caFÉ, RoYAL Rose HoteL caFÉ MoZart, AL RAHA BeAcH HoteL t-GarDen, the chocolate GallerY, FAIRMont BAB AL BAHR

cIrco, InteRcontInentAL ABU DHABI catch, saccI, tHe WestIn ABU DHABI GoLF ResoRt & sPA acroPolIs, Le MeRIDIen ABU DHABI asIa De cUBa, coRnIcHe stratos, Le RoYAL MeRIDIen

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa: Luxury has a new residence

Located in the business district of Seef, opposite to Seef Mall and 4-minute drive from Bahrain City Centre, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa offers a 5 star experience whether travelling on business or simply on a mini weekend spree. Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa provides all the facilities you may ask for under one roof with stylish rooms, various dining outlets and one of the best-late night venues for a perfect night out.

Seef Area | Kingdom of Bahrain | T: +973 17 111 999 reservation@rameegrandbahrain.com www.rameegrandbahrain.com

fact magazine

SOCIETY

#FINA #HOSA #10KM #MARATHON #SWIMMING #WORLD #CUP The Fina hosa 10km maraThon swimming world Cup saw over 70 oF The world’s FinesT swimmers From 20 CounTries Take To The abu dhabi waTers For a Thrilling raCes. FrenCh swimmer, axel reymond, sTruCk gold ConCluding The raCe in 01:57:52. reymond beaT seCond and Third plaCe Finishers – briTain’s JaCk burnell and germany’s ChrisTian reiCherT by JusT 1.5 seConds.

fact magazine

From the world’s best super foods to gruelling and fun exercise workouts, here is the ultimate a to Z guide to achieving your summer body the healthy way – so let’s get fit, be happy and feel strong, just in time for the sun-filled days ahead...

Get Your Summer BodY fact magazine

SUMMER BODY

B BikinG

The weather is perfection and there are so many great routes for you to cycle through in Abu Dhabi - the lovely Corniche to start off with, or how about the laid–back Yas Island, and for those looking to get to places on time via an alternative method of transportation, biking will is definitely a great all-over leg and glutes workout. Check out GoSport at Yas Mall for the coolest wheels.

aCai BerrY This dark-purple, fibre-packed berry has huge amounts of nutritional value including antioxidant and energyboosting properties, and it tastes absolutely delish in a healthy smoothie! Add it to your yogurt, a glass of juice, your breakfast cereal, or better yet, swap out the candies for Acai as your daily snacking option. Oh, did we mention that Victoria Secret model Adriana Lima and fashion designer Victoria Beckham are both obsessed with Acai too!

Cardio

Your face is dripping. Your fight-or-flight response has kicked in. These are all the body benefits when you push hard and kick it up with cardio exercise in your daily routine. Cardio boosts productivity, revs energy levels, works out your whole body and even has the power to improve your mental mojo and lower stress levels. Just 30-minutes a day can make a massive difference! 32

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D detox

Looking to recharge and rejuvenate? Start by making small changes to your daily diet and mix things up with the addition of natural, organic products, or, simply, change out your daily cups of coffee for a detox juice. If you want to go all-out head over to Talise Spa in Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and try the ‘Dreams are made of this’ package for a complete state of relaxation.

EVA VAUGHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

SUMMER BODY

exerCiSe

Simples! Just 20 minutes of intense exercise a day can really start to make a difference in your body and mind! That can be anything from a quick run on the treadmill, taking the stairs up and down at the office and your apartment, or a jog around the block to kick-start your day. If getting outside isn’t your thing then try a fitness DVD or head online where Youtube has thousands of quick exercise videos to get you going, and it’s completely free, so no excuses now!

Gluten is the compound protein found in wheat, rye and barley that causes bread to rise. It’s also a staple of granola, some pastries and toast. Some people are severely allergic to gluten, and many others suffer from some level of gluten intolerance, which causes bloating and gut inflammation. If you want to eat clean and get healthy for summer, head over to the excellent gluten free section at Spinneys supermarket and see what yummy treats are on offer – we can guarantee that your tummy will thank you for it.

e F

Flax SeedS They’re super popular in this region, and for good reason. Flax seeds have some seriously good health benefits. This little seed is a quality source of both important dietary staples; protein and fibre, which can be taken through supplement tablets, as well as in ground and oil form. A regular dose of flax seeds can help to reduce the risk of such health issues like liver disease, depression, and high cholesterol to name but a few benefits.

Gluten-Free

Hula HoopinG Hoop yourself to your body best in time for summer! Hula hooping is so much fun, and helps to burn mega calories as well as sculpting your body and blasting off belly fat! The great thing about hula hooping is that you can do it alone to your favourite tunes or you can get together with friends for a workout with a difference that will certainly keep you on your toes.

H fact magazine

SUMMER BODY

JuiCinG It seems that nowadays just about everyone is jumping on the juice bandwagon; from Hollywood celebrities to the busy housewife next door, juicing, whether that’s for a diet cleanse, for an energy boost, or to adopt a healthier lifestyle, it seems that having a juicer at home is the new fitness accessory must. There are plenty of great healthy juice recipes online, and two of our fave local companies who deliver too, include Essentially (www. esentially.ae) and Detox Delight (www.detox-delight.ae).

K kiloS

It’s been dubbed ‘the hardest workout ever put on DVD’ and, trust us, we tried it for 20 minutes and can vouch for whoever said that! Insanity (www. beachbody.com) has become THE workout to get you beach body ready in 60 days. Forget regular high intensity training, because this workout programme turns old-school interval exercising on its head. If you’re serious about getting in shape for the summer and up for the challenge, we say, go for it!

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DIANA-BURAKA-FITNESS

inSanitY Workout

Let’s be honest – the last few kilos are always the toughest to shift, and that’s where combat sports like boxing, and boot camp come in. Get down to Cobra Fitness in Al Bandar and join in their extensive schedule of muay thai, jiu jitsu, thai fit, and popular sessions like the abs destruction, the Spartacus workout and fighter’s fitness, where you’ll be put through your paces and helped to reach your weight goals.

SUMMER BODY

nutriBullet Don’t juice, don’t blend – only extract; that’s Nutribullet for you! A coveted machine making waves around the world for its healthy extracting technique. Prepare juices with fruits or vegetables, Nutribullet will give you a healthy, fibre-rich and nutritious juice. With easy steps to follow, this machine breaks down and crushes stem, seeds and skins of food, releasing the nutrients to make it a super food. No chunks, unbroken seeds or mess to clean up; this multitasking tool deserves a thumbs-up.

laSer taG Ok, let’s get real. Laser Tag is fun, like huge amounts of fun. But it’s also a physically demanding activity, but because of all the fun you’ll be having, you won’t even feel like it’s a workout. This popular pastime is not only one of the best ways to spend time with family and friends, but it can be a totally different way of getting in some exercise while hanging with family and friends. Get your dose of laser tag at Thrill Zone in Oasis Centre Mall, Dubai!

orGaniC Organic is trending; expensive but a clear-cut healthy choice to make. Organic food has more of the antioxidant compounds linked to better health than regular food and contains higher levels of essential minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron that are major components in our daily diet. For a quickpro-intro, get down to Organic Foods & Café and say hello to natural produce, chances are that once you start to eat organic, there’ll be no turning back.

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meditation

A healthy body always starts with a healthy mind, so exercising your soul and learning to destress is essential to getting ready for the summer days. Most spas and health centres in town offer meditation classes, but this is something that you can ‘DIY’ at home as well. Get yourself into a good routine of exercise-meditationhealthy eating, and you’re on your way to happy days this summer.

puSH-upS

Quinoa

It might not be your instant exercise of choice but the push-up is a complex compound move that works your chest, biceps and core – basically, if you’re serious about rockin’ that summer swimsuit then doing a good set of push-ups will help you get there. Push-ups come in lots of different variations and you can make use of other gym equipment, like a fitness weight ball, to help you get to grips with your preferred push-up workout.

Quinoa went through a time of food awakening (much like kale is right now) and is now one of the most popular super foods, loaded with protein, fibre and minerals. Quinoa is usually prepared as a salad, and boy has it become a popular menu item in the region! It’s light, delicious and comes with a wealth of health benefits. If you’re quinoa-savvy, you will know that the nutty taste and delicate texture make it a perfect addition to your daily diet. fact magazine

SUMMER BODY

SQuatS Looking for some serious results from your workout routine? Look no further than the 30-day squat challenge. Just add this exercise into your daily workout, increasing the number of squats you do by a little more everyday. There’s no equipment required, you can do squats in your pjs, whilst waiting for your coffee to brew in the kitchen, and even in your back garden! Doing squats might just be the smartest fitness move to make before summer arrives.

runninG Not only is running good for the lungs and heart but hitting the pavement releases those happy endorphins that will leave you on a high after a workout. Running is one of the top ways to burn off extra calories and the second most effective exercise in terms of calories burned per minute. On that note we definitely recommend running to be added into your workout schedule.

unWind

With the stress and grind that comes with living in a busy city and having an intense and hectic work schedule, it’s necessary to take your health seriously. Without doubt, exercise and healthy foods are the key, but along with that the body needs to destress and unwind. Take a trip to the spa or join a retreat programme for some rejuvenation and let loose. Your body needs some pampering too!

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tai-CHi Try some slow, soft and graceful moves with the martial art form of Tai-Chi. Learning to do Tai-chi correctly is the key, without which you wouldn’t experience the calmness and relaxation that it can provide. This exercise can prevent or ease many ills and could be the perfect activity to spice up your regular workout routine. Join Tai-Chi classes today for a healthy body, mind and soul.

VitaminS

Feeling sluggish? You might be low on certain vitamins. But don’t fret, a quick boost is all you need to get your system revved up and going. Load up on vitamins with a delicious smoothie, salad, cereal, or even daily supplements. That’s the great thing about getting your needed vitamin dose – you can get it through food, drink, or in a bottle from local health stores.

SUMMER BODY

W Water

Whether you want shinier hair, glowing skin, or a healthier body; a drink of water, eight glasses a day, to be specific, is the world’s best and natural beauty elixir. Make sure to be toting a bottle or two with you to get the daily recommended two litres. Hydrate the body with the right amount of H2O and reap the benefits in time for summer.

x-treme SportS Take the Xtreme path for some life-changing experiences. Activities involving speed, height and a high level of physical exertion are the xtreme sports we’re talking about. These fun activities include Base Jumping, Skydiving, Canoeing, Climbing, Skiing, Kite Surfing and lots more. It’s all more than just the safe running and jogging; take a little risk and enjoy a sport that is fun and adventurous for your body your adrenalin side.

YoGurt

Yogurt is a favourite among all ages, thanks to the tantalising flavours available in stores now. The calcium in yogurt signals the fat cells to pump out less cortisol, making it easier for you to drop pounds, while the amino acids help to burn fat; are you ready for flat abs? Pinkberry is a fun place to try out some healthy yogurts with your desired flavour and toppings.

ZuCCHini Zucchini is one of our favourite veggies and there’s plenty of it in this region. It’s extremely rich in vitamin, minerals and phytonutrients, making it a welcome addition to a calorie-controlled diet. Zucchini is a type of summer squash, which has a slight sweet flavour to it and can be eaten raw or cooked. Cut zucchini into long, thin strips, and mix with lemon juice, olive oil and pepper for an easy-to-prepare but flavorful salad for a healthy food fix. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#DRONeS #FOR #GOOD #COMPeTITION The winners oF The FirsT ‘uae drones For good award’ were announCed lasT monTh. over The Two-day evenT, 39 semi-FinalisTs in Three CaTegories presenTed live demonsTraTions oF Their proJeCTs To a panel oF inTernaTional Judges. There was also a division For naTional CompeTiTors who won aed 1 million.

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SKATEBOARDING IS SWEEPING THE UAE WITH MORE SKATE PARKS POPPING UP AND MORE SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS PICKING UP A BOARD AND TAKING TO THE STREETS AND RAMPS. WE CAUGHT UP WITH SWEDISH SKATER ADAM SAHLSTEDT, WHO IS ALSO VANS’ BRAND AMBASSADOR IN THE MIDDLE EAST, TO TALK FITNESS BENEFITS, THE ABU DHABI SKATING SCENE, AND FUTURE GOALS…

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“it’s a great way for both kids and adults to stay in shape. By just standing on the board going down the street... ” Do you remember the first time you started skating and how did it feel? I started skating after watching my big brother Victor skate and by him letting me borrow his board. I used to skate behind our house after ice hockey or football practice in the small town of Tranas (Tranås - Sweden) with my friend Emil who lived down the street. We used to build small jumps and curbs out of old wooden loading trays (lastpallar) and plywood that we got from an industrial area a couple of blocks away. Compared to playing ice hockey or football, skateboarding felt much more free because you could do it whenever you felt like it and you didn’t need to be a lot of people to be able to do it, just your board. So eventually I quit ice hockey and football and just continued skateboarding. It really helped having a great mom that paid for all those skateboard decks and that has always been supportive of everything I’ve done. How does skateboarding in UAE differ from Sweden and the rest of Europe? There’s a big difference. The summers in Sweden are pretty short and the ground is often pretty rough because of the snowy winters, so you get used to skating crowded indoor parks or spots that kids from UAE probably wouldn’t even consider “spots” since the ground and run-ups are so bad. Sweden has very few natural marble ledges and big open plazas with perfect flat surfaces - compared to the UAE were it feels like you can find natural great skate spots with marble almost everywhere. Describe the UAE skateboard scene... Thanks to the royal families there are several easy accessible skate parks you can visit, for instance Tashkeel, Business Bay Skate Park and the indoor Zoo Skate Park in Dubai and the Family Skate Park in Abu Dhabi. You can never get enough skate parks though (haha!) it’s a really fun and cost effective way to get kids away from the computer and TV and couple of hours a day to do some physical activity. 40

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SPORTS

Is skateboarding a sport or a lifestyle, and how has going PRO changed your life? Skateboarding can mean different things depending on who you ask. Some people see it as a sport and some as an art form. My sponsors have definitely helped me out a lot over the years. I have a good relationship with all of them, for instance the people at Vans feel like family. How many hours a week do you skate and tell us some of your favorite tricks? It depends on how busy my schedule is. Some weeks I skate for a couple of hours almost every day and some weeks I can’t because I’m out traveling somewhere. But I always try to bring my board everywhere I go. Some of my favorite tricks are the ones you use going up and down street curbs while just going to the store, school or work, like ollies, 180’s, manuals etc. Do you prefer street or ramp? I grew up skating street but I prefer skating a fun ramp. When my dad lived out on the countryside when we were kids he built a mini-ramp for my big brother in a barn so I grew up skating a lot in that.

Some fitness benefits of skateboarding... It’s a great way for both kids and adults to stay in shape. You don’t have to be flying around doing tricks to get the fitness benefits. By just standing on the board going down the street you automatically use several of the muscles in your legs and torso to keep your balance. And because it’s so much fun two-three hours of skating will feel like half an hour. So it’s a great alternative if you want to get in shape but don’t like going to the gym or out running.

“me and my sponsors long-term goal is to obesity in the uae and promote health awareness and...”

What is the best way to start skateboarding for beginners? To get a complete skateboard from an actual skateboard store and not from a toy store or grocery store. The “real” skateboards from the skateboard stores are often more expensive but there is a big difference between buying skateboards built by toy companies compared to quality skateboards built by skater-owned companies. Advice for young people and amateurs looking to go PRO… A professional skateboarder (PRO skater) is someone that can make a living out of the financial support received by sponsors and endorsements. Just skate and have fun and if you’re talented you will eventually get there, naturally. But no one should skate just to become sponsored, they should do it because it’s so much fun.

Name skateboarders that inspire you? Hazze Lindgren – he is hands down my biggest inspiration in skateboarding. An innovator with a great style and a bag of tricks like no one else. He is also an incredibly cool and nice guy that I’ve had the pleasure to skate with many times. Also Jeff Pulkkinen, Albin Brodd and Oskar Karlsson. Where do you see your skateboarding career taking you in the next five years? Me and my sponsors long-term goal is to help out fighting child obesity in the UAE and promote health awareness and physical activity by giving as many kids as possible the chance to try out skateboarding and show them that there is more fun things to do besides only sitting by the computer or TV all day. If any skaters, beginners or more experienced, want to skate in Dubai, they can get in touch with me on Instagram @Adam_Dubai or email me at AdamDubai@ gmx.com and I’ll reply as soon as possible! fact magazine

SOCIETY

#FORTNUM&MASON #PReSeNT #TeNNIS #AT #THe #PALACe held under The paTronage oF hh sheikha shaikha binT mohammad bin khalid al nahyan, The inaugural ediTion oF ForTnum & mason presenT Tennis aT The palaCe Took plaCe aT emiraTes palaCe. The Charmingly briTish evenT FeaTured sTars like marion barToli, Jana novoTna, Tim henman, and younes el aynaoui amongsT oThers in a world-Class sporTing evenT.

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S L AV S A N D TATA R S : M I R R O R S F O R P R I N C E S

One of the most intriguing art exhibitions to come to Abu Dhabi is currently on display at the New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Art Gallery; presented by the art collective Slavs and Tatars, this major solo showcase is a their most ambitious and immersive installation to date. FACTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shabana Adam chats with Gallery Director and Curator, Maya Allison, to learn more about the exhibition... fact magazine

ARTS

When I heard that Slavs and Tatars was coming to Abu Dhabi to showcase the collective’s incredible work, there was jump for joy and a feeling of excitement for all the art enthusiasts in the city. This is their most ambitious and immersive installation to date, with new work occupying the 7,000-square-foot exhibition space at NYUAD Art Gallery. The exhibition and accompanying book trace the current obsession with self-help to a medieval genre of political science, “Mirrors for Princes,” shared among Christian and Muslim lands, with Machiavelli’s The Prince being the most famous example. At NYUAD Art Gallery the artists look to these texts as an urgent precedent of generosity and critique, and as a case study of the balance between faith and state, issues that continue to resonate today across the Middle East, North America and Europe. For those who may not be familiar with this art collective, who exactly are Slavs and Tatars? “This is a group of artists who, together, create art installations, books, and performances,” says Maya Allison, Gallery Director and exhibition curator. “They started as a book group, reading about the cultural history of the Islamic world, and from that began producing books that connected those readings to contemporary questions and issues. “The group describes itself as ‘a faction of polemics and intimacies devoted to an area east of the former Berlin Wall and west of the Great Wall of China.’ They are best known for their use of a playful presentation style to disarm and engage viewers in the content of the research underlying their work,” she adds. In the exhibition, visitors traverse three environments, each radically

a series of mirrored speakers, arranged on traditional book stands, play excerpts from an 11th-century, Turkic “mirror for prince” called Kutadgu

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languages (Turkish, Uighur, Polish, German, and Arabic). Next, a dark, psychedelic gallery holds a series of glowing, fetishistic sculptures that explore the text’s concern with grooming, both one’s hair as well as one’s heart and one’s tongue. Finally, visitors discover a serene teahouse and reading room, where the books available are curated by the artists from the NYU Abu Dhabi library collection, and merge with their art practice. “They [Slavs and Tatars] make art installations – sculptures and images, but also entire environments, such as a teahouse or a dark, mysterious room, where the mood itself is part of the work,” Maya explains. “All of their art has a very playful quality. They link witty, irreverent, creative practice to scholarly ideal for a University gallery audience, and its surrounding community. “Like many in the NYUAD academic community, the artists work at the intersection of multiple histories, in this case from Eastern Europe to Western China,” she says. “Their projects resonate with the regional audience, and with the diverse community within NYUAD’s student body and faculty.” Maya tells me that it has been a wonderful experience bringing a university gallery into existence. I’m curious to know if she faced any challenges with putting together this particular exhibition. “The biggest challenge was simply making sure people know that it is happening,” she says. “As a new space on a university campus, it’s important that people understand that we are exhibiting shows in the format of a museum: the work is not for sale, the artwork comes from established artists, and our shows run for two to three months,” Maya adds. One of her favourite pieces on display at Mirrors for Princes is Fingerling, a sculpture that shows hands holding thread, as if at a salon, to thread facial hair, but on that thread are rosary beads.

“ALL OF THEIR ART HAS A VERY PLAYFUL QUALITY. THEY LINK WITTY, IRREVERENT, CREATIVE PRACTICE TO SCHOLARLY AND FIELD RESEARCH, SO NATURALLY THEY ARE IDEAL FOR A UNIVERSITY GALLERY...”

ARTS

Slavs and Tatars make art installations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sculptures and images, but also entire environments.

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ARTS

“RIGHT NOW, WE HOPE TO CREATE A SPACE WHERE CREATIVE INDIVIDUALS AND SCHOLARS AND PEOPLE WHO LOVE ART CAN ALL COME TOGETHER AND GROW INTO A COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.”

“It captures how these artists combine ‘grooming’ in the salon sense with ‘grooming’ of one’s spiritual practice – it’s playful, but also responding to the more serious work of these ‘Mirrors for Princes’ to groom our future leaders to be good leaders,” Maya says. In conjunction with the exhibition, a book titled Mirrors for Princes has been published by JRP|Ringier, edited by Anthony Downey of Ibraaz, and commissioned by the NYUAD Gallery for the Mirrors for Princes exhibition cycle, in collaboration with the other venues. As for the growing art scene in Abu Dhabi, Maya believes that there are many creative people here, and the promise of great museums to come is exciting. She says: “Right now, we hope to create a space where creative individuals and scholars and people who love art can all come together and grow into a community of friends and colleagues. All art ‘scenes’ need that, and everyone, from artists to engineers, from students to families, thrive when communities have a couldn’t agree more! GO: The Slavs and Tatars: Mirrors for Princes exhibition will run until May 30 at NYUAD Art Gallery. Visit www.nyuad-artgallery.org or call (0)2 628 8000 for more information

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@FACTAbuDhabi | @FACTBahrain | @FACT_Qatar fact magazine fact magazine 47 .9

MODERN MOSAICS

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ARTS

FRencH PHotoGR APHeR I s A B e L L e AV e n A R I U s ’ W o R K WILL Be sHoWcAseD In tHe “MosAIQUes – ABU DHABI” s e R I e s A t FA I R M o n t B A B A L InsPIReD BY tHe sKYLInes IsBeLLe’s WoRK Is A UnIQUe GeoMetRIc coMPosItIon WHIcH IncLUDes sYMMetRIc tRIBUte to non FIGUR AtIVe

Photography is not just about taking pictures anymore. Images taken on a camera are now manipulated in a variety of ways and play a key and unique role in modern art. Take Isabelle Avenarius for example, her creations for this exhibition include 10 photography mosaic art works that use landmarks and skylines across Abu Dhabi including, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Corniche, the Marina, and Khalidiya Palace, among others. To the naked eye the pieces on display appear as traditional mosaics, but upon closer inspection, guests will see some very familiar buildings and cityscapes. Nils Axing, General Manager at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, says: “Art that encapsulates the wonderful architecture of the UAE always resonates with guests at Fairmont Bab Al

Bahr. Isabelle’s photography series takes the monumental buildings around Abu Dhabi and turns them on their heads - literally - to create further works of art. One key element that will intrigue visitors to the exhibition is how Isabelle manipulates scale and size. Her technique involves shrinking the skyline and the landmarks of Abu Dhabi, placing these images into tiles and creating these uniquely themed mosaics. She states that these works of art are inspired by the modern architecture in Abu Dhabi and its contrasting natural environment. Another unique component is the shape of the art itself. Each mosaic is printed on circular acrylic, 100cm in diameter, which naturally makes them distinctive and adds to their appeal. “Mosaiques – Abu Dhabi”

is Isabelle’s latest photography series and follows her “Street” series where she took photographs on the streets of Abu Dhabi, and caught the spirit of the Capital using vibrant colours, long exposure and motion to enhance the dynamism of the fast developing city. Isabelle has been living in Abu Dhabi since 2012 where she has found a new source of inspiration for her artistic work. Using her camera as a pencil, playing with light and movement, she first used canvas as a medium. Her inspiration in various places such as Giverny, Scandinavia and Peru has led to three photo series entitled Natural Impressions I and II and Between Land and Sea. GO: Mosaiques – Abu Dhabi is on display from April 15 to June 30 at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr. Call (0)2 654 3333. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#JAbRA #AT #ITU #WORLD #TRIATHLON #AbUDHAbI #2015 Jabra parTiCipaTed in The iTu world TriaThlon abu dhabi in early marCh. The TriaThlon was held aT abu dhabi sailing & yaChT Club wiTh over 2000 parTiCipanTs CompeTing wiTh The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mosT eliTe aThleTes. a handFul oF aThleTes and FiTness enThusiasTs parTiCipaTed on behalF oF Jabra, inCluding granT goes and simona, Co-Founders oF FiTness link.

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on the Road to Health & Fitness One of the best ways to get on the fast track to a healthier you is by taking a trip to a wellness retreat and having professionals plan a personalised health programme just for you! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve picked six of the best spots where you can go for a fitness fix to get summer-readyâ&#x20AC;Ś

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GLOBETROTTER

SeriouS STrengTh Wildfitness, Kenya At Wildfitness it’s all about encouraging a lifestyle philosophy based on nature and evolution, to make real changes to your body, helping it become leaner and stronger for more vibrant and healthy living. Tucked away on the north coast of Kenya near Watamu, Wildfitness overlooks a gorgeous white-sand beach with amazing fitness schedules for guests. After an initial assessment, you can take part in a personalised wellness programme that monitors your movements, patterns and running technique. Packed with workshops on everything from nutrition to flexibility, movement classes, adventure training, and everything in-between, this is one place to seriously kick-start your path to a healthier you. GO: Visit www. wildfitness.com or call +44 7415 884312 for more information.

WeighT LoSS Kamalaya, Thailand Located on the stunning island of Koh Samui, this wellness sanctuary and holistic spa resort has all the right tools for those looking to shed kilos in a healthy way. Once used as a spiritual retreat for Buddhist monks, the island of Koh Sumai has been a place of quiet rejuvenation for centuries. This resort is surrounded by electric green 52

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forests, sacred caves, sandy beaches with palm trees, and clear blue water. Kamalaya offers a selection of ‘Wellness Programmes’ that will have you feeling as good as new in no time. These include yoga, optimum fitness, detox, stress and burnout, fitness, weight control or a combination of all. A more personalised experience can be put together by the team of international pros for a programme that also includes holistic medicine, spa and healing therapies. GO: Visit www.kamalaya.com or call +66 77 429 800 for more information.

geT ACTive 38 Degrees North, Ibiza For those looking to tone and shape up, Ibiza has more to offer than just nightlife. Located on the east coast of the island in Aguas de Ibiza, 38 Degrees North boasts an enormous spa and three restaurants, as well as specially trained health and fitness to help you get fit, fast. This place is all about getting your fitness flying, coupled with nutritious food and cutting-edge slimming treatments and spa therapies. Here you can build your ideal health programme and choose from four “fusion elements” (cardio, strength and sport, mind and body and renewal), as part of the Fusion Fitness holidays. There’s everything from a kick-boxing champion, to a chiropractor, and the best state-of-

GLOBETROTTER

the-art equipment to assist you along the way. GO: Visit www.thirtyeightdegreesnorth. com or call +44 7527 40789 for more information.

DeTox & DeSTreSS The Farm at San Benito, Philippines If it’s a full body cleanse that you’re looking for, look no further than The Farm at San Benito. You’ll get hardcore overhaul here, which begins with indepth consultations with a medical professional and fitness trainer, who will help to tailor your stay to your own detox goals. You might be put on a specialised juice diet to eliminate toxins; you might even have colon hydrotherapy, followed by a relaxing body wrap and massage – it all depends on what you want to get out of the stay. As well as the healing sanctuary side, there are plenty of movement and fitness activities like a variety of dance and circuit training, nature walks and meditation too. GO: Visit www.thefarmatsanbenito.com or call +632 884 8074 for more information.

this health retreat will take your breath away! Imagine scenic blue lakes, snowcapped mountains, and miles upon miles of greenery, it’ll be hard not to fall in love with this place. Set amongst a sub-alpine wonderland on South Island, New Zeland, Aro Hā is a transition space designed to encourage adventure, self-development, alternative health and fitness, and connectivity with nature. Whether it’s sweat-inducing TRX classes, calming Vinyasa yoga sessions, or a hike through NZ’s rugged landscape, Aro Hā is Zen-inspired luxury that incorporates holistic and therapeutic practices too. GO: Visit www.aro-ha.com or call +64 3 442 7011 for more information.

a luxurious and healthy break from reality. We’re talking hot springs, detox programmes and fabulous natural healing plans which include an endless choice of therapy sessions and activities like yoga, Pilates, Turkish bath, Ozone therapy, Shockwave Therapy, Mud Therapy, exercise programmes and lots more for those looking to rejuvenate. The resort is staffed by medical professionals and trained experts, so you are in safe hands that will guide you to your health goals. GO: Visit www.natur-med.com.tr or call +90 256 657 80 for more information.

ThermAL heALing Natur-Med Thermal Springs And Health Resort, Turkey Set along the Aegean coast, the NaturMed Thermal Springs and Health Resort is an exotic wonderland that offers guests

ConneCT WiTh nATure Aro Hā Wellness Retreat, New Zealand With the motto ‘adventures in wellbeing’ fact magazine

SOCIETY

#IPIC #WORLD #TRIATHLON #AbUDHAbI #2015 The ipiC world TriaThlon abu dhabi saw over 2,000 aThleTes raCe The Course on abu dhabi’s beauTiFul CorniChe ahead oF olympiC and world Champions. The iTu world TriaThlon series debuT FeaTured Three disTanCes To suiT people oF all abiliTies – sprinT, olympiC and maxi. over 600 raCers Flew inTo abu dhabi espeCially For The sporTs evenT.

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LE ROYAL MONCEAU, RAFFLES PARIS

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TRIED & TESTED

THERE’S SOMETHING CHARMING ABOUT PARISIAN LIFESTYLE; CAFÉ CULTURE, QUAINT STREETS, STUNNING GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS, BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURE AND DISTRICTS DEDICATED TO ART AND DESIGN. THE LE ROYAL MONCEAU, RAFFLES PARIS REFLECTS ALL OF THIS WITH TRUE ELEGANCE AND WARM HOSPITALITY...

THE SUITE LIFE

sophisticated and boasts a location in the heart

spring day and were met with immaculate service with monsoon shower and a separate dressing make our time in Paris and at the hotel more than thrilled to learn that the hotel has a dedicated art

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TRIED & TESTED

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TRIED & TESTED

DINING PARISIAN-STYLE

has an open kitchen with a contemporary

a Michelin-star holder â&#x20AC;&#x201C; things get deliciously

decor in a conservatory overlooking the garden

RELAXATION REFINED

ALL ABOUT LOCATION there was so much around that is totally worth

GO: VISIT WWW.LEROYALMONCEAU.COM OR CALL +33 1 4299 8800 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION..

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READ IT ONLINE

http://issuu.com/hadag

@Hadag_Me

A new publication from Nans Group, the company that brings you a portfolio of leading magazines fact magazine from across the GCC.

HOTEL HOTSPOT

ADAGIO APARTHOTEL MINUTES AWAY FROM ABU DHABI EXHIBITION CENTRE, SHEIKH ZAYED SPORTS CITY, EMBASSIES AND GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS, APARTHOTEL ADAGIO ABU DHABI AL BUSTAN INVITES YOU TO STAY IN AN EXCLUSIVE NEIGHBOURHOOD FOR BUSINESS AND LEISURE.

apartments

has

become

hospitality trend in places

is stepping into the scene with the home-

apartments and hotels has been the apartment user either didn’t need or

easily accessed by guests staying at the Aparthotel Adagio via a connecting apartment building has much more

SELF-SERVICE HEIGHTENED In total there are 279 apartments ranging

that our studio apartment was huge – compared to many we’ve stayed in

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“For both business and leisure travellers, space and design will be important, so that they are free to live as they please – this place definitely takes that into account.”

HOTEL HOTSPOT

“We especially recommend the Aparthotel Adagio because of the endless benefits it offers. It also delivers great service...”

the option to cook a meal and store any grocery

sized bathroom – thumbs up to the person

EXTRA FACILITIES

great service in a prominent location with an so so much more – why wouldn’t you want to GO: VISIT WWW.ADAGIO-CITY.COM OR CALL (0)2 508 6444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#AbUDHAbI #FOOD #FeSTIvAL #2015 more Than 50,000 people visiTed The inaugural abu dhabi Food FesTival, Comprising emiraTi kiTChen, gourmeT abu dhabi and sTreeT FeasT whiCh Came To a Close Following a 17-day Culinary exTravaganza ThaT spread aCross The emiraTe. The numbers oF visiTors To The Three evenTs exCeeded expeCTaTions oF The organiser - abu dhabi Tourism & CulTure auThoriTy.

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REVIEWS

BIG ScREEn

Desert Dancer

What’s it about:

A drama based on the true story of a young aspiring dancer in present-day Iran, where dance is banned. The man is Afshin Ghaffarian, who risks everything to start an underground dance company in his home country, a place where there’s a politically-volatile environment with morality police patrols observing to make sure that citizens abide by the nation’s laws.

DIRECTOR: Richard Raymond CAST: Reece Ritchie , Freida Pinto, Tom Cullen. WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING? Desert Dancer became a much talked-about film after making appearances at film festivals in Cannes, Santa Barbara and Ischia, Italy. And still, critics remain divided on this biographical film. Some argue that it’s another Hollywood take on portraying Iran in an exclusively negative light, while others see it as the story of one man’s ambition and dream to dance, despite having to risk his life to achieve this. Like many true-story-inspired films, Desert Dancer will definitely divide theatre-goers into two camps – the first being those who will watch this film through a solely political lens, as it does bring to the forefront many of Iran’s complexities and clichés; and the second will be those who fall in love, and sympathise, with Afshin’s struggles to do what many consider a very normal and acceptable thing – dance. In this case, it’s difficult to decide where we stand without understanding both sides. The film has been criticised for frequently ignoring the realities of life in Iran, on the other hand, we all know that cinema always has to go overboard in order to be effective, throw in the hero’s struggle with a love story, and you’re left with a stirring plot. We’re going to leave this one up to you!

Highlights “On the other hand, we all know that cinema always has to go overboard in order to be effective, throw in the hero’s struggle, with a love story, and you’re left with a stirring plot.”

Furious 7 What’s it about: Back for round seven, the Fast & Furious crew face bad-man Deckard Shaw who’s out to seek revenge against Dominic Toretto and his family for the death of his brother, Ian Shaw, who was killed in Furious 6.

Desert Dancer

“With Jason Statham onboard and a huge part of the film being shot right here in Abu Dhabi, we’re sure there’s going to be a whole lot of on-road thrills in this one.” Furious 7

DIRECTOR: James Wan CAST: Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jason Statham, Tyrese, Paul Walker. WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING? All eyes are going to be on the Fast family, both on and off screen when Furious 7 hits cinemas in April. This is one franchise that has managed to establish a mega worldwide fan base who continue to turn out and support each installment of the films in their millions. Of course, this is also an unusuall tight cast and crew as well, one that has gone through some major tough times after the passing of lead cast member Paul Walker. We’re at number seven now, and what we want to see is EPIC car action and some huge risks. With Jason Statham onboard and a huge part of the film being shot right here in Abu Dhabi, we’re sure there’s going to be a whole lot of on-road thrills in this one. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#THe #WeSTIN #ADOPT #A #SCHOOL #CAMPAIGN The sTarwood hoTels & resorTs worldwide, inC reCenTly launChed Their new parTnership wiTh royal aCademy oF Culinary arTs in The uk by bringing The ‘adopT a sChool’ programme To abu dhabi. The iniTiaTive broughT CheFs From The wesTin abu dhabi golF resorT & spa inTo The briTish sChool al khubairaT, For a week-long exerCise.

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REVIEWS

on ThE REcoRD

Fully BookED

NON-FICTION

Angry Bitch! Who Are You? I Love You By Lulu Brix Mahaini

HIP-HOP/RAP

The Album About Nothing By Wale

There’s something intriguing about the elusive Wale; he sends out deep, philosophical tweets about life, always gives fans crazy amounts of creativity through his music, and his discography is filled with a mix of highs and lows. So, it’s fair to say that we’re excited, if not anxious, to hear his latest material on The Album About Nothing. With 2013’s number one The Gifted out of date and his more recent, fan-approved and critically-acclaimed, Festivius mixtape now partied out, the DC rapper returns to his long-time obsession with Seinfield, which he employed on two of his past (and very successful) mixtapes. This 14-track record is Wale’s fourth studio album and features the likes of Jeremih on The Body, Usher on The Matrimony, and appearances from J.Cole, SZA and Jerry Seinfeld himself. He’s definitely one of the most interesting hip-hop stars of today, and Maybach Music Group is definitely letting Wale do what he does best, that is, produce music from his grassroots. Oh, and did we mention the cool album artwork by artist and designer Sue Tsai? Now let’s see if Wale can turn ‘Nothing’ into, well, a thing!

ALTERNATIVE/ EMO-POP

Future Hearts By All Time Low They started out as a high-school cover band off as a cover band and quickly morphed into a melodic emo-pop act that still remain poppunk’s biggest heroes. There’s something this foursome do which many in the music industry today don’t possess, that is, having a real knack for penning straight-up sing-along anthems. This is what you’re going to get on Future Hearts. We’ve already heard Something’s Gotta Give, a track that starts off a little lighter than expected but kicks in to give those awesome energetic punk-pop sounds, and if the rest of the album follows suit then fans are in for a massive musical treat. This is All Time Low’s sixth studio album, and the band does not slip up a single time, something that will have been helped by the input of producer John Feldmann and exciting new collabos with Blink 182’s Mark Hoppus (on Tidal Wave) and Good Charlotte’s Joel Madden (on Bail Me Out). Hot off a hugely successful UK tour with You Me At Six, there’s never been so much anticipation for an All Time Low album as there is for Future Hearts. Whatever they’re doing musically, they should continue, because it’s really working!

“This is All Time Low’s sixth studio album, and the band does not slip up a single time...”

When anger starts to take control over your life, helplessness creeps in. This book is all about self-development, with real-life examples that the author goes through to make peace with her feelings of rage and depression. The day she said ‘I do’ she was complimented by her husband on how happy she always is. When that happiness turned into anger, she felt like an Angry Bitch! Blaming others was her first call, but when she found herself unreasonably angry with her two innocent daughters, that’s when she realised, some inner work needs to be done. Read about the interactive tools she used to find her true self and turn into a wiser, happier, and back-in-control individual.

FICTION

Keeping Faith By Jodi Picoult

Faith, a seven year old kid witnesses her parent’s marriage fall apart. With her mother, Mariah struggle with depression, Faith seeks solace in a new friend; imaginary or not is the question? Faith talks to her ‘Guard’ constantly and begins to recite passages from the Bible; a book she’s never read. Fearful for her daughter’s sanity, Mariah sends her to several psychiatrists. Yet when Faith develops stigmata and begins to perform miraculous healings, Mariah wonders if her daughter might indeed be seeing God. As word spreads, Mariah and Faith are caught in a media circus. The book is all about the motherdaughter duos journey from there on; interesting and intriguing! The mystery of the reality keeps you going, as a reader.

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SOCIETY

#23RD #DUbAI #INTeRNATIONAL #bOAT #SHOW Thousands Turned ouT For The 23rd ediTion oF The dubai inTernaTional boaT show, wiTh visiTors being TreaTed To some oF The FinesT superyaChTs and boaTs, luxurious auTomobiles, small To mid-sized vessels and The showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newesT seCTors Covering Fishing, sailing and waTersporTs. The loCaTion dubai inTernaTional marine Club, mina seyahi, was a paCked evenT.

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TRD FJ CRUISER

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CITY RIDES

WE TAKE A RIDE INTO THE DESERT IN TOYOTA’S TRD-SPEC FJ CRUISER, A DEDICATED OFF-ROADER WITH EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR DOMINATING THE DUNES… TOYOTA’S QUIRKY RETRO LOWFRILLS, high thrills off-roader gets a makeover courtesy of the Japanese automaker’s performance division, TRD (Toyota Racing Development). TRD recently launched its UAE base late last year, and now offers aftermarket parts and TRD-spec versions of Toyota’s passenger car range, the FJ being the most recent addition. For most of the range, the modifications are almost purely cosmetic, with aero kits, alloy wheels, chromed exhausts, and so on. However, 68

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the FJ Cruiser’s mods go much more than just skin deep. Sure, there are the cosmetic touches, such as the rather nice-looking black 17-inch alloys, the chromed TRD exhaust, shift-knob and fender flares, which do all add to the overall visual effect. But then there are some serious additions which are dedicated specifically to the fine art of desert driving. For example, there are the special TRD shocks and coil springs that add ground clearance, and underbody

protection in the form of a skid plate and side sill protectors. There’s the compass/inclinometer setup on the dashboard (an inclinometer is that ball floating in liquid that tells you whether you’re upside down or not…). And then there is the built-in air compressor for inflating your tyres after you’ve let them down for desert driving, which is probably the most useful feature of all. Not so useful, but cool anyway, is the TRD flagpole that screws into a mount on the roof, so that people can spot you from a distance when traversing the undulating dunes of the desert! Other standard features on the TRD FJ which add icing to the cake are the navigation system and rear parking camera on the infotainment screen, as well as cruise control. The engine for the TRD FJ remains the same – Toyota’s 4.0l V6, which

CITY RIDES

puts out 268hp and 380Nm of torque through the five-speed automatic transmission, which itself can be manually shifted between 2WD, 4-High and 4-Low. Being geared more towards torque than horsepower, the FJ is not the fastest SUV on the road, but the considerable torque will churn through or over most obstacles with little fuss, helped along by the FJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relatively lightweight design. There are also such useful driver aids

Other standard features on the TRD FJ which add icing to the cake are the navigation system and rear parking camera on the infotainment screen, as well as cruise control.

as the A-Trac Active Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control and differential lock. The TRD FJ suffers from the same complaints as the standard FJ Cruiser, namely a budget-looking plasticky interior, cramped rear seats and unrefined on-road ride comfort. However, for serious 4WD enthusiasts, these issues are secondary to off-road performance, and in that regard, few SUVs offer as much bang for your buck as the TRD FJ. Indeed, most of the parts that come standard are only available as aftermarket or third-party parts on most 4WDs. At around AED155,000, the TRD FJ is pricey compared to the standard FJ Cruiser, but in our opinion, if you like to hit the desert, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be disappointed. fact magazine

PLUGGED-IN

BOSE CINEMATE 15 HOME THEATRE SPEAKER SYSTEM Bose is known for premium sound quality through high-end technology, but it isn’t traditionally known for simplicity. However, that is exactly what they’re selling here with the CineMate 15 Home Theatre Speaker System. The system was designed for people who aren’t particularly bothered with having a super-accurate surroundsound system, but do want to take a step up from their TV’s standard in-built speakers. And a step up the CineMate 15 audio quality certainly is. The sound is full, crisp, and crystal clear, with excellent bass from the big sub woofer. However, all this sound quality comes from an incredibly simple system, namely a sub woofer, a soundbar that incorporates all the other speakers, and an easy-to-use and very versatile universal remote. Aside from the sound quality and the simplicity of the system, the universal remote was one of the biggest selling points for us, easily controlling the TV, DVD player and TV channel box – basically anything we tried it with. Another bonus is that Bose includes the all-important HDMI cable with the set, so that you don’t get home and face instant disappointment if you haven’t thought of purchasing that particular item and don’t have a spare. Verdict: Although the Cinemate 15 is impressive, it doesn’t compare to a proper 5.1 Surround Sound System, but it completely blows away anything comparable in terms of size and simplicity. It is pricey, but you won’t get better sound quality from any other simple speaker system like this. If you have limited space in your living room, but want very high-quality sound, then this is the system for you.

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PLUGGED-IN

APP-LICIOUS Today’s tech-savvy generation of smartphones and tablets means the world is at your fingertips, literally! FACT has three great apps to download for your device, keeping you plugged-in to all the best techie help for every area of life...

Health & Fitness

Health & Fitness Nike + Running (iOS, Android)

My Net Diary Calorie Counter (iOS, Android)

Walking is the best and easiest exercise, and if you have an app that records the number of steps you have walked, voila, there’s no excuse to go on foot now! Pedometer calculates all the numbers, including the distance, speed and time. Push the start button and get marching with the smartphone in your hand. To get the correct number of burned calories enter your age, gender, and weight and step length for accurate results. You can view a graph with all the information accessible at anytime.

Running is an exhaustive exercise, but the results are worth the effort. This app with its very obvious name tracks your runs; whether you’re a light jogger, a first time runner, a power walker or a sprinting veteran. On the trail, treadmill or streets, the MotionX feature combines your phone’s GPS and accelerometer for the most accurate tracking of your distance, pace and time. Get the measurement and motivation you need to run farther and faster. What are you waiting for, put on your running shoes and get set go!

If you need motivation to get fit and healthy - this is the app for it. Make some realistic weight goals and lose weight in a steady fashion. My Net Diary allows you to track your body facts and health observations that will direct you towards your weight goal by giving you personal diet tips based on your diary entries. The app also suggests you the type of exercise you can follow, recommends Daily Calorie Budget, based on target weight. These are just some of the features; download the app today and get going!

Pedometer (iOS, Android)

Health & Fitness

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SOCIETY

#LACOSTe #PARTy #AT #CIeLO #SKy #LOUNGe dubai’s Top media, bloggers and inFluenCers along wiTh laCosTe’s inTernaTional delegaTes goT TogeTher To CelebraTe The brand’s moTTo “liFe is a beauTiFul sporT”. The guesTs goT To Take piCTures aT The laCosTe phoTo booTh wiTh a mega repliCa oF The newly launChed lT 12 laCosTe raCkeT, TesT Their arTisTiC skills on The virTual graFFiTi wall, and waTCh The spring-summer ‘15 show on sCreens and lisTen To The dJ duo, hollaphoniCs. 72

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ZARA FAS H I O N

ZA RA S P RING SU M M E R2015 As the Spring/Summer season gets into full swing, the fashion scene is changing once more with new trends hitting the malls all the time. This month there was one collection that caught our attention the SS15â&#x20AC;&#x2122; men and women styles from Spanish brand Zara. We love that Zara has incorporated a number of trends seen on the fashion week runways by famous designers and turned these into high street attire that all the stylish guys and girls out there can get at affordable prices. Check out the campaign shots and our product picks right here... fact magazine

FASHION FOCUS

ZARA FOR HER zARA’s neW coLLectIon HAs LAnDeD - AnD tHe WAIt WAs WoRtH

tHAt zARA HAs tAKen eVeRYtHInG FRoM tHe ss15 RUnWAYs

Fast-fashion king, Spanish super brand Zara presents its SS15 season’s lookbook of women’s clothes. Zara has moved toward a more tailored,

suede attire and footwear, and cute dresses decked out in lace and gingham prints. Summer shorts and structured tees are teamed with embroidered waistcoats and tasseled bucket bags, giving the collection an eclectic feel. Among the androgynous styles, there are statement vinyl skirts, midi heels and even the injection of animal print patterns and paisley brocade. The colour palette includes navy, black and neutral grounded shades. If that wasn’t enough, as well as every Zara is one of the largest international fashion companies. It belongs to Inditex, one of the world’s largest distribution groups. For this world-famous fashion brand the customer is at the heart of its unique business model, which includes design, production, distribution and sales through an extensive retail network. 74

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FASHION FOCUS

coMFoRt Is eVeRYtHInG tHAt zARA’s Men’s FAsHIon oFFeRInG IncLUDes

ZA RA FO R HIM The fashion retail giant is leaving no style stone unturned when it comes to the Zara Man SS15 collection. Perfect for celebrating the region’s warm weather (and especially with the sandstorms and gusty winds that we’ve had) this collection is clean-cut and great for all the on-trend men out there. Recruiting the face and limbs of models Matthew Holt, Victor Nylander, and David Flinn, the campaign is shot somewhere serene and lakeside at dusk. Tailoring is updated with modern cuts that sit ultra slim – an excuse to update your tired blazer with a sharp new one or your everyday coat with a sleek jacket; while grey and taupe are the dominant suit colours, with jolts of bold shades like orange, thrown in the mix. Minimalism creeps personality to sweaters. A navy Harrington jacket (think slim bomber)

pop-orange or classic navy - both daring and super stylish choices. Some of the key pieces from the collection include colourful trench

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eLegAnT overSiZeD CoAT

reD AnorAK-STYLe JACKeT

SLogAn-emBoSSeD T-ShirT

BLACK & WhiTe CASuAL Tee

FLorAL-inSPireD KniTWeAr

FAirYTALe FLorAL ShirT

70S inSPireD BLoCK DreSS

green TAiLoreD BLAZer

FO R H E R

CheCKeD Denim ShirT

geomeTriC-STYLe T-ShirT

gArDen-FLorAL PrinT ToP

STriPeD emBeLLiSheD ToP

FASHION FOCUS

SHO P THE BRA ND

HERE IS OUR WISHLIST FROM ZARA’S SPRING SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION. SHOP THE SEASON’S LOOKS AT YOUR NEAREST ZARA STORE.

FO R HI M

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SOCIETY

#HOUSe #OF #FRASeR #UNveILS #SS15 #COLLeCTION house oF Fraser launChed iTs spring summer 2015 ColleCTion aT The world Trade CenTre mall in abu dhabi. The laTesT ColleCTion FeaTures sophisTiCaTed yeT Fun, ConTemporary Fashion designer brands From around The globe, inCluding True religion, parker and monique lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;hullier, many For The very FirsT Time in The abu dhabi markeT.

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STYLE

H&M SUNGLASSES

BERSHKA FLOWER-INSPIRED HAIR ACCESSORY MISS SELFRIDGE GLAM DAY-TO-NIGHT PONCHO

LIPSY FLORAL SLEEVELESS TEE

BOHO CHIC THE FAMOUS FESTIVAL LOOK IS BACK, AND IT’S BOLDER AND BRIGHTER THAN EVER. WE’RE TALKING OVER-THE-TOP PRINTS, CLASHING COLOURS AND SUPER-COOL BOHO-INSPIRED STATEMENT FASHION. PERFECT FOR WARM SPRING DAYS, CHECK OUT OUR FAVOURITE HIGH STREET PICKS.

H&M TROPICAL PRINT KIMONO JACKET

BERSHKA BEADED STATEMENT BRACELET DESIGUAL PSYCHEDELIC PRINT TROUSERS

NEW LOOK FUNKY FLORAL PLATFORMS

H&M COACHELLA CASUAL BAG

BERSHKA BOHEMIAN-STYLE EARRINGS

MONSOON EMBELLISHED DAY SKIRT fact magazine

SOCIETY

#Ub40 #AT #bA #vIP #LOUNGe #TASTe #OF #DUbAI guesTs in The briTish airways vip lounge aT TasTe oF dubai 2015 goT more Than ‘Food For ThoughT’ as The airline was Joined by ub40 FeaTuring ali Campbell, asTro and miCkey virTue For an aCousTiC seT oF some oF The undeniably mosT well remembered briTish reggae-pop songs in musiC hisTory. The ub40 Trio wowed vip lounge guesTs, briTish airways exeCuTives and CorporaTe CusTomers aT dubai media CiTy. 80

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STYLE

RAY BAN SUNGLASSES

ASOS QUILTED-PRINT JERSEY ASOS BUCKET HAT

H&M RED T-SHIRT

WORD UP

BERSHKA CASUAL T-SHIRT

ASOS BLACK & WHITE SHORTS

NOTHING MAKES MORE OF A STATEMENT THAN SLOGAN-STAMPED ATTIRE. WITH SPRING IN FULL SWING AND SUMMER AROUND THE CORNER, THIS SS15 SEASON IS ALL ABOUT MAKING FASHION WAVES WITH WORDS. HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE HIGH STREET PICKS.

H&M CASUAL DAYTIME TEE TOPMAN CHILL-OUT SHORTS

NEXT AZTEC-STAMPED TRAINER

NEW LOOK CASUAL BLUE SWEATER

MARKS & SPENCER POOLSIDE FLIP-FLOPS fact magazine

SOCIETY

#PLAy #DATe #WITH #PeTIT #bATeAU qualiTy FrenCh Fashion brand, peTiT baTeau reCenTly hosTed a Charming evenT aT iTs ouTleT in The dubai mall For visiTors To The sTore. The evenT also wiTnessed The aTTendanCe oF seleCT media From The region and heralded The launCh oF The brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ss15 ColleCTion. There was FaCe painTing, balloon bending, and a polaroid phoTo-op wiTh The adorable peTiT baTeau boaT prop, To enThrall The aTTendees. 82

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BEAUTY

✓

BEAUTY

CHECKLIST

HAVE YOU STOCKED UP ON THE BRAND NEW PRODUCTS FROM THE WORLD OF BEAUTY? FACT BRINGS YOU A NEW LIST OF BEAUTY ESSENTIALS EVERY MONTH. SO LADIES, WHAT IS ON YOUR CHECKLIST THIS MONTH? MAKE SURE TO TICK THEM ALL OFF…

GUERLAIN ABEILLE ROYALE DAiLY rePAir Serum

hoT nuDeS eYe PALeTTe

MAKE UP FOR EVER STeP 1 SKin equALiZer rAnge

This serum is a wonderful anti-ageing product. The primary action of the Abeille Royale range has been to help repair micro-tears by boosting the key healing mechanisms to smooth, firm and offer the skin a lifting effect. This gelly like serum can be used morning and evening, on the entire face and neck. Dab some on daily to feel the freshness, fineness and hydration on your skin.

Housed in a sleek black compact with neon pink accents, this flirty palette features six totally wearable shades that flatter all skin tones. Layered or worn alone, the shades in palette create a variety of luscious and pretty looks— from subtle and sultry to super smokey. So make sure to pick this one up to doll up for the next party.

This smoothing primer is a must-have for every woman who dreams of a natural makeup with a radiant look. It works wonders on the skin with large pores making it even with refined pores and reduced wrinkles and fine lines. It can be layered as much as you like to correct skin imperfections without flaking. Wow, now that’s a gift before Christmas for all you ladies!

MAYBELLINE

SEPHORA

NARS

BABY SKin Pore erASer

CUT HERE

BOBBI BROWN

Maybelline New York has tapped right into what women want most; a baby soft complexion. Apply the pore eraser on your face and see the difference; it fills in pores and disguises those skin imperfections without clogging. Pores, imperfections, lines and creases disappear in a flash! Voila, smooth, poreless skin that looks pure and fresh.

TriPLe ACTion genTLe CLeAnSing geL We tend to buy different products for the eyes, face and lips. But those days are over as Sephora comes up with the triple action cleansing gel which is a multi-purpose beauty product. This ultrarefreshing gel texture perfectly cleanses, gently removes make-up, hydrates and soothes the skin. It’s clear that this micellar gel has got it all!

Pure mATTe LiPSTiCK Pout all the way with luscious lips! NARS is out with some amazing colours and matte textured lipsticks in their new collection. The well-edited collection of shades is created by Francois Nars himself to bring out the best lip looks imaginable. This one is a sleek looking product, which makes you look uber-stylish.

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SOCIETY

#DUbAI #JAzz #FeSTIvAL #2015 aCTs suCh as sTing, John legend, ChrisTina perri and esperanza spalding Took To The sTage aT The 13Th emiraTes airline inTernaTional Jazz FesTival, held aT dubai media CiTy amphiTheaTre. wiTh Food TruCks, drink sTalls, live bands, and plenTy oF Fun aCTiviTies, The Three-nighT unique Take on musiC, arT and liFesTyle was anoTher huge suCCess.

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“The aim you need to have is excellence… this is possible in a kitchen by reformulating both ideas and cooking concepts all the time” – Chef Gianluca.

Italian Fare With Heart & Heritage We indulge in a tasting at the table of Gianluca Cazzin, Chef de Cuisine at Frankie’s Italian Restaurant & Bar, in Fairmont Bab al Bahr hotel. Let’s see what the new man behind the menu hopes to achieve at this popular dining venue…

fact magazine

CHEF’S TABLE

“There’s no doubt that taste is prioritised. However, it is important to try and make presentation and flavour work hand in hand. Still, the main focus is consistency and to be consistent the taste of the dish is non-negotiable.” – Chef Gianluca Cazzin.

e has around three decades of professional culinary experience, and now, Gianluca Cazzin, is bringing his wealth of foodie knowledge and skills to Frankie’s kitchen as the new Chef de Cuisine. Chef Gianluca has had a passion for cooking, since his early teens, and started working in a pro kitchen at the age of 18. Though he’s worked in restaurants worldwide, it was his one-year stint as sous chef in Milan, working with Gualtiero Marchesi – the first Italian chef to be awarded three Michelin-

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stars – where Chef Gianluca picked up a range of gastronomic techniques. We’re excited to taste what he’s prepared for us and first on the table is a bright and beautiful plate of fennel & orange salad with imperial king crab & Mediterranean herbal. “The menu I wanted to present to you today is a tribute to my home land of Italy,” he says. “From the North to the South, from the sea to the Alps.” We’re told that this salad is made up of King Crab which is a typical ingredient in Venice; it’s enriched by oranges like in Southern Italy, and, finally, the scent of wild herbs is

prominent in the Mediterranean. The salad is breathtakingly fresh and the combination of flavours is unlike anything we’ve tasted before – we’re off to a wonderful start. We ask what Chef Gianluca hopes to achieve at Frankie’s. He replies: “The Gianluca vision in terms of Italian food is not like a fine-dining plate because, for me, Italian cuisine has a lot to do with the region where the product is coming from. When the product is so authentic, you should do less with it.” A sound philosophy and one that stands out in the next dish; saffron risotto & grilled red shrimp from Sicily. This dish gets our mouths watering, instantly; it’s a tribute to South Italy and a small village near the Etna volcano named Zafferana – it’s where the saffron comes from. The delicious, bright-red shrimp is very special as it can only be found some 800m below sea level – it tastes exquisite. We notice that Chef Gianluca is not only giving us tasty dishes, but they’re

also immaculately presented. “Taste and presentation must walk together,” he says. “Even if we’re busy at the restaurant, we make no compromises. Next up is homemade ravioli, braised veal cheek & mashed potatoes. A hearty dish that pays homage to the Alps - we absolutely love it. We see that ingredients are a key role to Chef Gianluca’s cooking. “The first step is to make sure that we have the right ingredients in place,” he says. “This is the key to good recipes. There are ingredients that you can’t substitute like Parmigiano-Reggiano [parmesan cheese], buffalo mozzarella, or burrata - these are truly traditional Italian products and so we have to import them. “On the other hand, in this part of the world there are very good fruits and vegetables that you don’t need to source from Italy. Eggplant, tomatoes, you name it. These will all be sourced locally.” We end with the master of all Italian desserts – the Frankie’s Tiramisu. A trio of sweet treats contended by the three Italian regions of Veneto, Tuscany and Piedmont, whipping together coffee and mascarpone cheese for a scrumptious delight – it was absolute food heaven. “I’m very confident in the direction that we’re going by focusing on quality ingredients, consistency of the plating, and having the right team,” Chef Gianluca says. “With all this in place we’ll take Frankie’s to the next level.” After trying his food, we don’t doubt that for a second! GO: VISIT FRANKIE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BAR AT FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR. CALL (0)2 654 3238 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Menu Fennel & Orange Salad with Imperial King Crab & Mediterranean Herbal. Saffron Risotto & Grilled Red Shrimp from Sicily. Homemade Ravioli, Braised Veal Cheek & Mashed Potatoes. Frankies Tiramisu.

fact magazine

A Chinese Feast at Shang Palace A few weeks ago we were invited for a truly unique experience – a sneak preview of the special Chinese New Year menu in Abu Dhabi’s most celebrated Chinese restaurant, so we new we were in for something special…

fact magazine

VENUE REVIEW

“So far, so good none of the dishes took us by surprise, boasting familiar Chinese flavours...” What most people consider to be ‘Chinese’ food anywhere outside of the Far East is actually a highly Westernised form of cuisine based mostly on Cantonese food. However, anyone who has actually been to China will tell you that a truly Chinese culinary experience is a wholly different affair altogether. Bridging that gap between Western perceptions and Chinese realities is the Shang Palace. Billed as one of the most authentic Chinese culinary experiences you’ll find anywhere in the region, the Shang Palace gives you a true taste of China without the severe culture shock of some of the more weird and exotic dishes that can be found in China itself (fried Scorpions, anyone?). And the Chinese New Year menu, created particularly for the Chinese residents of Abu Dhabi, was to be no

exception. First off was the very traditional Chinese New Year dish of Happiness Yee Sang. The accompanying plum and soy sauces are drizzled over the salad-style dish, and then the whole thing is tossed as high in the air as you can without making a complete mess – the higher it goes the better luck for the New Year! With the Yee Sang came the appetisers, which were beef slices rolled in enoki mushrooms, chicken and seafood wontons with Chinese vinegar soy sauce, and doubleboiled crab meat soup with dried scallops. So far, so good – none of the dishes took us by surprise, boasting familiar Chinese flavours, whilst introducing us to dishes we’d never experienced before, all tasty, all devoured! The same went for the mains. The steamed hammour fish fillet was delicious, as were the roasted chicken fillets served on prawn crackers, and the Wok-Braised Ee-Fu noodles with river prawns in spicy scallop sauce. After such an expansive menu (which we were assured was for three-to-four people, but we think could easily have fed five to six!), we struggled

with the desserts, tasty as they were. The rice dumplings with sweet ginger tea were good, but the pan-fried sticky cake was our favourite. Unfortunately, this particular set menu was specifically for the Chinese New Year, so is no longer available. However, several of the dishes are to be included on the a la carte menu, so if you’re up for a culinary adventure and a truly authentic Chinese experience, give the Shang Palace a try! GO: VISIT SHANG PALACE AT THE SHANGRI-LA, QARYAT AL BERI. CALL (0)2 509 8503 FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#TRyP #by #WyNDHAM #OPeNING sheikh musallam bin ham al amri oFFiCially inauguraTed Tryp by wyndham hoTel in abu dhabi, in a Ceremony aTTended by a large number oF Travel agenTs, businessmen and exeCuTives From The group. iT is The groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seCond hoTel in abu dhabi aFTer ramada CorniChe and iT Comprises 146 rooms and suiTes, a spa and a varieTy oF dining ouTleTs.

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CITY BITES

Creative Chocolate

Turkish Food

Barbeque & Vino

Treats

Festival

Nights

Lovers of all things chocalate can rejoice this April with a fabulous new choco promotion at Le Café in Emirates Palace! We’re talking delicious chocolate treats with a touch of taste, class and elegance - just like The Palace itself. The stylish café will feature sweets and treats using the Emirates Palace La Perle Noire chocolate. Delight yourself with various forms of pure heaven to satisfy every chocolate craving. From millefeuille drizzled in gold flakes to chocolate caramel delice, and even chocolate beverages such as iced chococino and chocolate floats (how yummy does that sound?). It’s a whole month of taking chocolaté treats to another level at Le Café – make sure you go and take a bite of the offerings! GO: Call (0)2 690 7999 for more information.

Hilton Abu Dhabi will host the second year of the popular Turkish Food Nights, in partnership with Turkish Airlines. During the five-day celebration in April, a lavish buffet with Turkish delicacies will be served at Escape Restaurant from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, priced at AED140 per adult and AED70 for kids. Mustafa Dogan will be the guest chef from Hilton Istanbul, bringing his three decades worth of culinary experience to serve Abu Dhabi’s diners a menu based around traditional Turkish cuisine, which will feature lamb filled ravioli, kebabs, koftas, aubergine salad, traditional Turkish cookies called revani, and so much more! Wolfgang Maier, General Manger for Hilton Abu Dhabi, says: “We always strive to develop new and exciting cuisine offerings for Abu Dhabi. We are overjoyed to have the opportunity to collaborate with Turkish Airlines to host Turkish food nights.” If you want GOOD Turkish food, mark this one in your calendar.

The stunning Catalan restaurant and beautiful bar La Cava, both at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, have another new concept for diners in the city to enjoy. Jordi Vicente and Chef Francisco Sanabria invite you to an evening of Spanish barbeque and wines on Monday nights from 7.30pm until late. Start your authentic journey at La Cava where the sommeliers will introduce your wines for the night, accompanied by Iberian cold cuts. The journey continues at Catalan where dinner will be served. Choose your food directly from the barbeque whilst enjoying wines brought to you by some of the most prestigious wine makers of Spain. If it’s an evening of class and fabulous food that you’re looking for, this is where you’ll find both! GO: Barbeque and Wine Nights will be hosted on April 13 and 27, May 11 and 25, and June 8. Priced at AED300++ including wines. Call (0)2 813 5573 for more information.

GO: Turkish Food Nights will take place from April 20 to 25 at Hiltonia, Hilton Abu Dhabi’s exclusive beach club. Call (0)2 692 4247 for more information.

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SOCIETY

#DUbAI #FOOD #FeSTIvAL #AT #MALL #OF #THe #eMIRATeS Topping oFF The dubai Food FesTival CelebraTions, maJid al FuTTaimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mall oF The emiraTes organised a TasTing evenT wiTh parTiCipaTing reTailers. led by hussain moosa, assoCiaTe direCTor For shopping malls, maJid al FuTTaim properTies, Food ouTleTs sT. Tropez, Tribes, sheraTon mall oF The emiraTes and angelina welComed guesTs wiTh speCialTy dishes.

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CITY BITES

Family

Anantara

The Park Bar

Saturdays

Gourmet

& Grill

Located in the heart of Yas Island, upscale lounge and restaurant Iris Yas Island introduces Family Saturdays debuting a new kids menu and breakfast menu available starting 12noon every Saturday. Parents can enjoy a laid back afternoon while keeping an eye on the children as they enjoy the Yas Marina playground adjacent to the venue. The breakfast menu offers scrumptious eggs in your favorite style whether sunny-side up, scrambled or royal with truffles. The kids’ menu includes popular choices like chicken tenders, pasta, and puppy hot dogs with an Iris twist to delight the little ones. Family Saturdays is an outdoor gathering fit for the whole family and loved ones that takes family-friendly dining to heart. Family Saturdays offers the perfect city escape during the cool spring weather. GO: Call 55 160 5636 for more information.

Thai-food lovers you’re in for a treat! Returning to Abu Dhabi as part of the week-long Anantara Gourmet, is Denmark’s very own Michelin Star Chef, Henrik YdeAndersen. His was the first Thai restaurant – Kiin Kiin in Copenhagen - to be awarded a Michelin Star. Chef Henrik specialises in the theatrical deconstruction of Thai classics. Behind beautifully composed food presentations, the familiar flavours of traditional dishes are maintained while he pushes the boundaries of form, texture and temperature. He will be taking over the kitchen of Pachaylen restaurant, from April 11 to 15, with “A Twist on Thai,” a dedicated four-course tasting menu (AED350++ per person inclusive of paired grape). We’ll be there! GO: Chef Henrik will visit Eastern mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara from April 11 to 15 as part of Anantara Gourmet, including a live demonstration followed by an intimate hosted lunch on Monday April 13, priced at AED250++ per person inclusive of lunch. Call (0)2 656 1000 for more information.

Take a trip to the stunning Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas to dine at The Park Bar & Grill restaurant! With a brand new Chef de Cuisine and a fantastic revamped menu, this place caters to the city’s meat and seafood lovers with top-notch, quality fare. With A charcoal grill and a large seafood display, guests are given the possibility to interact with the chefs and see how their food is being prepared. The restaurant is presenting a great outside seating area with the possibility to dine under the stars and palm trees. The menu focuses on a big variety of steak cuts and origins as well as seafood from the grill, freshly prepared in front of guests in the open kitchen. Robert Allum has recently been appointed Chef de Cuisine at the Park Bar & Grill. He aspires to further enhance The Park Bar & Grill, making it a vibrant signature venue offering remarkable culinary experiences and exceed guest expectations. Go and see for yourself! GO: Call (0)2 407 1234 for more information.

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SOCIETY

#AbU #DHAbI #FeSTIvAL #2015 his exCellenCy sheikh nahayan mabarak al nahyan, minisTer oF CulTure, youTh & CommuniTy developmenT and admaF paTron, oFFiCially inauguraTed The abu dhabi FesTival 2015 visual arTs exhibiTion aT emiraTes palaCe gallery, beFore Joining an upbeaT Crowd For an evening oF bossa nova beaTs as brazilian supersTar, sergio mendes, made his arabian gulF premiere and kiCk-sTarTed The abu dhabi FesTival 2015â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main programme. 94

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THAI TRADITIONS AT NAMM SPA Understated and elegant, this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spa treatment was like nothing ever experienced before. Shabana Adam tells you why Namm Spa at the Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is just the place to get your relaxation fix with a little bit of history and heritage thrown in the mixâ&#x20AC;Ś

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T HEALTH & WELLBEING

his month there was only one thing I was looking for when it came to the spa visit; I wanted an indulgent massage with a twist – something different with a little vigour. Instantly, the Dusit Thani abu Dhabi came to mind. The last time I visited the property, I fell in awe of how the hotel was able to blend the best of traditional Thai grandeur with the warmth of arabic hospitality. and, this is exactly what I wanted from a spa. aving heard so much about traditional Thai therapy and healing, I was yet to experience the invigorating effects of these worldfamous treatments. after researching namm Spa (pronounced “narm”) and learning more about its philosophy, I was convinced that this had to be the place for my first Thai-inspired treatment. namm is a Thai word that signifies “water” – the most essential element of life that offers so many healing applications both inside and out. It is this very concept that inspired the creation of namm Spa, where the skillful touch of well-trained therapists will erase the stress of modern life. I opted for a namm Signature Journey, the Thai heritage Therapy. pon arrival, a friendly therapist shows me around the beautiful spa with its white chiffon drapes, spacious treatment rooms that also double as changing rooms (a new spa trend which is growing ever more popular) and I’m given a warm towel and water as I fill in the usual pre-treatment form. My therapist tells me that namm Spa is designed simply to relax, revitalise and enhance the guest’s wellbeing. That each specialised treatment is designed to pamper your senses and redefine your inner balance and outer beauty – I like the sound of that. head into a lovely, large treatment room that has its own shower and changing area too. I’m handed Thai pajamas to put on for the first part of this two-hour

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treatment. There’s a reason why I chose the Thai heritage Therapy, the basis and techniques for this treatment dates back thousands of years. raditional Thai medicine is a natural, holistic approach to health and wellbeing, developed over thousands of years, which includes proper nutrition, physical exercise, the use of

medicinal herbs and therapeutic massage. This treatment programme was going to give me a taster of just that. It combines the essence of Thai therapy to bring body and mind into equilibrium. he treatment began with hermit’s Body Twist to provide body exercise based on stretching movements and breathing exercises. What I loved about this

HEALTH & WELLBEING

“NAMM SPA IS DESIGNED SIMPLY TO RELAX, REVITALISE AND ENHANCE THE GUEST’S WELLBEING. THAT EACH SPECIALISED TREATMENT IS DESIGNED TO PAMPER YOUR SENSES AND REDEFINE YOUR INNER BALANCE AND OUTER BEAUTY - I LIKE THE SOUND OF THAT.”

or sen lines. If an obstruction occurs in any of these channels it is believed that pain or disease results. In this sense, traditional Thai medicine is similar to many other ancient healing systems, which believe that illnesses are caused by an imbalance within the person, or by an imbalance between an individual and their environment. e then move onto the second and final part of the treatment – an aromatherapy massage using the exclusive aromatic oil recipe, which is blended according to Thai apothecary formula and its effectiveness on muscle tension and detoxification. This all-overthe-body pressure-point massage is exactly what I needed, not just to complement the stretching that went before it, but to let me relax in the moment, yet feel completely energised with a circulation boost afterwards. By the end of it my body and mind felt more in-sync and balanced. Mission accomplished. ou’ll immediately fall in love with the serene minimalism and ambience at namm Spa; it’s not over-the-top fancy, it’s more a humble space where beautiful décor, welcoming staff and the fabulous treatments all reflect the holistic way of Thai culture. your visit will be truly memorable. I can guarantee that!

rather innovative approach to wellness was that it worked every part of the body and gave a real lesson in controlled breathing whilst stretching (a practice that can really help with your regular workout routine too). efore starting the second part of the treatment, my therapist tells me a little more about the practice of Traditional Thai Therapy. I

learn that traditional Thai medicine is not only concerned with curing diseases and ailments, but that its primary goal is maintaining health and wellbeing, as ancient Thais believed that ‘the absence of illness is the best blessing. he tells me that in Thai medicine it is believed that energy flows through the body along ten major channels,

GO: Visit Namm Spa at the Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. Call (0)2 698 8888 for bookings and more information.

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Marwan Mseikeh General Manager, Grand Millennium Al Wahda

WHAT KEEPS GUESTS COMING BACK RECOMMEND THREE PLACES TO TO GRAND MILLENNIUM AL WAHDA? DINE IN ABU DHABI AND WHY... Being one of the luxury city 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi with distinct destination restaurants and unique dining concepts, the hotel has built a loyal following for both accommodation and dining. With an incredible location in an ever-expanding city, adjacent to a prime shopping destination, with a huge inventory rooms and apartments, the hotel is both bright and spacious. With great service and knowledgeable employees, guests feel valued and relaxed. We are a quality hotel offering affordable excellence. 98

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city insider

Porto Bello is elegant and inviting, and an award-winning best Italian restaurant. It offers contemporary Italian cuisine and the chef â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s promise you a little taste of Italy with their selection of authentic dishes. Porto Bello is proud to source the best quality ingredients imported from all over the world to ensure guests are served nothing but the best. Next I have to say Wafi Gourmet has truly earned its deserved reputation as the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading Lebanese restaurant and its location overlooking the Corniche is great. Biryani

Pot is excellent too. Here you can taste the best ever Biryani in unique clay bowls.

YOUR GOALS FOR 2015... My personal goal is my family happiness since they are the most important elements in my life. I am excited about having the opportunity to add value in 2015 with new challenges and developing our team members. The Hospitality & Tourism industry operates in a highly competitive environment. Increase the number of arrival guests and ensure a unique memorable experience. Finally, grow our revenue and brand visibility throughout 2015.

Let us create a moment that you’ll never forget.

Let us pamper you with style and discretion.

Let us make your stay be anything but foreign.

Let us promise you’ll never feel the same way about staying at Club Level again.

Experience the new level of luxury with Club Level accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton, Doha Club Level Lounge, is an exclusive retreat of supreme comfort, convenience and privacy. Indulge in five complimentary food and beverage presentations daily while captivating in the serene surroundings and views atop the 23rd floor. For reservations, call The Ritz-Carlton, Doha at +974 4484 8000 or visit us at ritzcarlton.com/doha.

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