FACT Abu Dhabi September 2015

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SEPTEMBER 2015 VOL 2. ISSUE 04 AED 10

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Fact Finds

Calling all budding photographers, check out the Photo Awards M.E. for a chance to enter your best foodie shots and win big.

DIA R Y DATES

Jetting off around the region? We’ve picked some of the GCC’s best hotels for a quick escape close to home.

H A P P ENIN G S

We’ve got a calendar packed with all the best dining deals, cultural events, awesome activities and more to mark in your diary this month…

A R TS INTE R V IE W We meet UAE-based artist Natasha Kowalski to learn all about the psychology of abstract art and her own work.

L OCA L A R TS

If you love photography, this exhibition will be right up your street. We chat to the woman behind the lens to learn more.

R E G IONA L A R TS

FACT goes behind the scenes of the brand new photography exhibition in Katara, showcasing the best of both Qatar Turkey 2015.

EID ESCA P ES

These aren’t your ordinary holidays! FACT brings you four fantastic, and very different, getaways for Eid Al-Adha.

staycations

If you’re not quite ready to give up the holiday feeling, fear not. FACT has a round up of some of the best Abu Dhabi hotel packages.

CIT Y R IDES

FACT’s resident motoring man heads to the UAE for a day with Dodge at Yas Marina Circuit! Check it out…

F W 1 5 F AS H ION

The seasonal wardrobe change is upon us and we have a trend report to keep all you stylesavvy people in-the-know.

chef’s table

This month, we fancied a taste of real fine dining. Read all about our visit to meet Chef Manish Law at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi.

S P A R E V IE W

Need some me-time? We’ve got just the perfect remedy at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, for all you busy-bods who need pampering.

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THE EDITOR

Evocative Art “Everything you can imagine is real.”

Pablo Picasso

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ow, it’s September already, and after a fairly quiet summer (which most of us in the FACT office really got used to) it’s time for an action-packed few months ahead. Staying true to our mission of discovering the UAE’s best talent in both the expat and local

communities, this month sees vivid and varied artistic flair on our pages. First off,

Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@factlive.com) Group Regional Editor Tony Sidgwick (tony@factlive.com) Features Editor Pallavi Ramesh (editorial@factlive.com) Creative Director Paula Leal

Photo Plus in Al Quoz, Dubai for a fascinating photography exhibition titled HER.

Graphic Designer Jyoti Rawat

French-Italian photographer Matilde Gatton takes over the gallery to showcase some

stunning photographs of women that she has met in all corners of the world. FACT learns more from the lady behind the lens herself on p24.

If that wasn’t enough, we’re taking things regional this month, and serious art

connoisseurs should pay attention. If there’s one thing that makes Qatar stand out, it’s the amazing arts and culture initiatives and programmes that are implemented and shared through exhibitions, workshops, and numerous events. Read all about Qatar Turkey 2015: Year of Culture and a new exhibition that shows both countries

through the eyes of local photographers. We have the lowdown on the one-monthonly display, Artistic Journeys: New Angles, New Perspectives starting p29.

Yes, another public holiday is just around the corner! Eid Al-Adha is upon us

and it’s going to be another long weekend (yay, travel!). Turn to p37 and check out

Photography Rashed Bin Daina Sunder Pratap Singh Production & Distribution Neil Mahmood Ajit Kumar Cover Image Natasha Kowalski Regional Sales Director Chelsea Copenhaver

our pick of the best unusual and quirky getaways that you can book over this festive

Sales Manager Yasmine Qawasmeh

the feeling of a holiday, check out our round up of some of the best hotel staycations

Sales Coordinator Renie Simplina

break. If you want something that’s a stones throw away from home, yet still offers in Abu Dhabi (p43).

September also brings with it the official seasonal wardrobe change, as Fall/

Winter fashion collections slowly, but surely, start making their way into the stores.

Our trend report (p63) will help keep your style on point for the upcoming Autumnal days.

Let’s fast track to food again. We’ve got some awesome experiences to share

with you all this month. Our fine-dining Chef ’s Table took place at the incredible

steakhouse, The Foundry in Southern Sun Abu Dhabi (p79), the Venue Review was

a delicious affair at Mezzaluna in Emirates Palace (p85), and the Foodie Corner took us to one of the newest venues in town, Inakaya at the Venetian Village in The RitzCarlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal (p89).

For those of you who love a good dining deal, check out our monthly promotion

picks (p92) – you won’t be disappointed.

Until next time…

Shabana Adam, Editor-in-Chief shabana@factlive.com fact magazine

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes

meet artists Natasha Kowalski who talks about the psychology of colour and the

art of abstract expression in her vibrant work (p17). Next we take a drive to Gulf

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FACT Magazine Abu Dhabi Edition September 2015 Volume 2, Issue 04

Advertising Enquiries Email: chelsea@nansgroup.com Printed By United Printing Press 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

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SOCIAL MEDIA

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SEPTEMBER 2015 VOL 2. ISSUE 04 AED 10

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Abu Dhabi| First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the city | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrityworld movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Abu Dhabi in local supermarkets now!

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20,896 reads of the August issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Abu Dhabi.

The Art of Abstract Expression p17.

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ABU DHABI AL AIN DUBAI SHARJAH BAHRAIN MUSCAT ABU AL AIN DUBAI BAHRAIN Dubai:DHABI The Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre DeiraSHARJAH / Abu Dhabi: Al Wahda Mall, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, YasMUSCAT Mall / Al Ain: Bawadi Al Mall, Jimi Mall Sharjah Mall / Mirdif, Bahrain: City Centre Bahrain Muscat: Mall Mall, Abu Dhabi www.dubaiholdinggroup.com Dubai: TheMall, Dubai Dubai/ Sharjah: Festival City Mall,Mega City Centre City Centre Deira / Abu/ Dhabi: AlOman WahdaAvenues Mall, Marina Mall, Yas Mall / Al Ain: Bawadi Mall, Al Jimi Mall / Sharjah: Sharjah Mega Mall / Bahrain: City Centre Bahrain / Muscat: Oman Avenues Mall www.dubaiholdinggroup.com

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P R E T T Y, C O M F O RTA B L E & S E X Y P R E T T Y, C O M F O RTA B L E & S E X Y fact magazine

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CHECK IT OUT

Fact Finds

Photo Awards M.E 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.

About

Photo Awards M.E is a GCC Food Photography Awards open for both professionals and amateurs, hoping to provide young and aspiring photographers a platform to get noticed, appreciated and be known.

Based on the theme Celebrating good food, participants are invited to enter their original photographs depicting different forms, styles, preparations and occasions of food. The vision is to raise awareness on healthy eating habits as well as traditional and organic farming through photography.

Participation

Participants must be 14 years and above, a citizen or resident of the GCC including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. A maximum of nine images (three in each category) can be submitted online. The entry fee is $15 per entry form. Registrations are open until September 30, 2015.

How to Enter

Follow these four simple steps: 1. Visit www.photoawardme.com 2. Complete the registration form.

3. Submit and upload your photos 4. Pay the entry fee.

Categories

The competition consists of three categories: • Food from the farms: Food shots from the natural settings; the farmlands.

• Market Scenes: Shots from the bustling environment of a local market.

• Food Portraits: Submit the picture of a dish or a delicious spread of treats set up with or without props and styling.

Grand Prize

The grand prize winner will receive, in addition to the title GCC Food Photographer of the Year 2015, a cash award of $1,000 and sponsored gifts.

The first place winner in each category will each receive $333 and gifts. ✤

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GO: Visit www. photoawardme.com for registration and more information on the competition.

Shortlisted entries will be available on the website after November 2, and winners will be announced at a gala event on November 14.

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Listen up

An Emirati Water Adventure

Boating Bonanza

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is further bringing its iconic Emirati theme to life with the launch of its revolutionary Legendary Adventures. Introducing a number of culturally-inspired attractions and activities for guests of all ages, visitors can look forward to an array of unique experiences including meeting live camels and falcons during weekends and public holidays. The adventure, which is free to all guests in possession of a full-price entrance ticket, will immerse visitors in the waterpark’s Legend of the Lost Pearl, a tale that celebrates Emirati culture and pays homage to the country’s pearl diving heritage. Legendary Adventures introduces Yas Waterworld guests to iconic characters from the park’s original storyline and will welcome traditional Emirati animals; including Hamlool, a Dromedary camel, and Shaheen, a Peregrine falcon. The Emirati-inspired journey will begin for guests upon entrance, as they will be greeted by a camel handler and have the opportunity to meet and have a keepsake picture taken with Hamlool. Authentic along every step of the way, visitors will experience true Emirati hospitality as they continue on their Emirati journey to enjoy dates and traditional Arabic coffee as they reach the park’s souk area. Thrill seekers will then meet and greet the great bird of prey, Shaheen, at the newly-created Shaheen’s Zone, which will also welcome an expert falconer. Yay, fun! ✤

If being out on the water is what life’s all about for you, then you won’t want to miss the opportunity to check out some of the finest second hand boats, pleasure crafts, jet-skis and water sport equipment. Where, you say? At the very first-of-its-kind Used Boat Show at Yas Marina. That’s right, on October 9 and 10, boating and watersport enthusiasts can enjoy a weekend of everything from browsing boats, live entertainment, workshops and activities, and sample a huge variety of food and beverages on offer. An event for all the family to enjoy, the Used Boat Show will have something for everyone with a range of on land and on sea activities, giving boating fans and novices alike the chance to experience ‘life on the water’ their loved ones. A line up of first-class marine, boating and lifestyle brands will also exhibit their latest products over the weekend. The Used Boat Show at Yas Marina is open to the public with access free of charge. Visitors who purchase a boat during the show will receive one month free berthing at Yas Marina, valid from October 10 to November 10, 2015. ✤

GO: Visit www.yaswaterworld.com for more information.

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GO: Visit www.yasmarina.ae/usedboatshow or call (0)2 406 2000 for more information.

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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Terms and conditions apply. © 2015 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

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Listen up

Activities at Al Forsan If you really want to put boredom at bay this month (or every month!), there’s one place that can cater to all your adventurous needs! Al Forsan International Sports Resort is where you go when you want some serious fun. Get out of the heat this summer with an all-new climate controlled indoor Archery Range equipped with state of the art facilities. Encased in a cool indoor environment, archers will hit the bull’s eye in the purpose built 15-metre range. With accuracy being the name of the game when it comes to this precision sport, archers will be able to test their mettle against a range of different targets, without any interference from the temperamental weather. Riders, too, are invited to participate in top of the range equestrian activities. With a diverse range of equestrian activities on offer, riders of all skill levels have the chance to improve their skills in a vast array of different disciplines. Beginners are offered the chance to attend private or group lessons, and will be tutored by the highly experienced and professional staff who will aid them in learning the basic skills necessary to become a capable rider. This can also be complimented by the Equestrian Theory Lessons, which see students learning the fundamentals of husbandry and care. For those who have a bit more experience, there are plenty of other activities that can test the skills of even the most talented rider. For example, students have the opportunity to master the art of show jumping, with courses that range from basic training, all the way up to international standard.

Younger children are also catered for, with special supervised pony rides for the new generation of horse lovers. There’s a whole host of other exciting activities on offer here, and you can easily spend the day here with friends and family. ✤ GO: Al Forsan is open seven days a week and welcomes all visitors with complimentary resort access and parking to experience the fantastic range of facilities. Call toll free number 800 Al Forsan (25367726) or email info@alforsan.com for more information.

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Rockin’Out If you haven’t heard this piece of news already, there’s a good chance that you have actually been living under a rock! Because, to the excitement of thousands in Abu Dhabi, legendary rock music icons Bon Jovi will return to our shores on October 1 for a live performance that you won’t want to miss for anything! The Livin’ On A Prayer and It’s My Life hitmakers will take to the stage for one night only, at du Arena, Yas Island.

The spectacular show will include their huge back-catalogue of anthemic chart-toppers like Wanted Dead or Alive, Runaway, Bad Medicine, In and Out of Love, and many more sing-along songs. We’re already practicing the lyrics to all the big classics – eeek, CANNOT wait for this one! ✤ GO: Tickets start from AED295 and are available at www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastores across the UAE. Email tickets@thinkflash.ae to purchase a Suite or Platinum table. The concert takes place at du Arena on October 1.

DIARY DATES

REGIONAL G E TA W AY S

Thinking about jetting off around the region this month? We’ve rounded up some of the best hotels for you to stay in whilst exploring our neighbouring nations…

Dubai

Melia Dubai Meliá Dubai is a well-kept secret in the heart of the city offering a fresh, modern air geared to make your stay truly exceptional.

Expect visually entertaining interiors with contemporary art pieces from all over the world and 164 stunningly decorated rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meeting space and business facilities. Three restaurants cater to all culinary tastes from Indian fusion to Japanese specialties. Allow yourself to be pampered as you experience our signature YHI Spa, which is a full service indoor spa, including six single and one double treatment rooms offering body and facial treatments.

Call +971 4386 8111 for bookings and more information.

Bahrain

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

D u b ai Melia Dubai

This spectacular seawater spa hotel and resort blends French art de vivre with traditional Bahraini style. The hotel has 262 luxurious rooms and suites boast balconies and sea views. Various amenities include a concierge porter, free WiFi, 24-hour room service, fitness centre, tennis courts, Kids Club, and lots more.

Spend the day relaxing by the pool indulging in thalassotherapy treatments or soaking up the sun at La Plage Beach Club. Indulge in a gourmet meal or light lunch at one of the stunning fine-dining venues.

Call +973 1763 6363 for bookings and more information.

Qatar

Kempinski Residences & Suites

Bahrai n

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Qatar

Kempinski Residences & Suites Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha offers top-class facilities for the best in Doha living.

The hotel has 370 spacious suites and villas, with one to four bedroom layouts, impeccable service, and state-of-the-art facilities, dining options, indoor swimming pools and a fitness centre. Explore the dining options which offers a classic ambiance, legendary cocktails, passionate food and some of the best desserts and baked goods in Doha, all under one roof!

Spoil yourself and revitalise your body at the PURE Leisure & Wellness Centre.

Call +974 4405 3333 for bookings and more information.

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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 (and you can stil find more throughout the rest of the mag!)

040810 13 17

FRIDAY

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

SUNDAY

THURSDAY

The main man of the evening is American actor and funny man Eddie Griffin, known for Norbit and Deuce Bigalow. Joining him is fellow American comedian Wil Sylvince, alongside popular regional talents Ahmed Ahmed and the hilarious mo Amer. Visit www.

Every Tuesday from 7pm to 11pm, foodies can tantalise their taste buds with incredible Cajun cuisine. Cajun night features a Cray fish counter and traditional favourites including Gumbo, Jambalaya, rice, Cajun fried chicken, and so much more! Priced at AED199 net.

The only one of its kind in the world, ADIHEX brings everything from outdoor and marine sports, weaponry, equestrian, safari, and arts and antiques through camel auctions, a saluki beauty contest, photography competitions and more, for visitors to enjoy. Visit www.adihex.net for

Embark on your journey into the world of collecting art or simply find a new piece to add to your existing collection. The souq offers an opportunity for visitors to view and buy a huge variety of artistic work using different techniques and mediums.

Koi supper club, from 9.30pm to midnight, will showcase an eclectic brunch menu with a selection of light bites created using the finest and freshest ingredients.

Sit back, relax and sip on Saketini cocktails a at this beautiful venue in The Collection on Saadiyat Island. Call (0)2

Comedy Friday for ADSS at Al Raha Beach Hotel

ticketmaster.ae for tickets.

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Cajun Night at CafĂŠ Palmier in Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi

Call 800 101 101 for more info.

Abu Dhabi International ART SOUQ 2015 Hunting & Equestrian at Etihad Modern Exhibition at ADNEC Art Gallery

more info.

Visit www.etihadmodernart.com for more info.

Thursday Supper Club at Koi Restaurant, The Collection

678 3334 for more info.

HAPPENINGS

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SATURDAY

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY

TUESDAY

Get transported to an amazing fairytale land full of magic with Lewis Caroll’s Alice in Wonderland, this time, on ice. Watch in amazement as top Russian figure ice skaters and breathtaking video technology bring this tragic love story to life.

This one’s not to miss! Call

Head down to The Yacht Club and tuck into tapas done Asian-style. Enjoy culinary delights from Hong Kong, Hanoi, Tokyo, Bangkok, and more. Sip on oriental cocktails and savour everything from sushi, to grills, wagyu, quesadillas and more. A mid-week foodie treat indeed.

Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul with an escape to So Spa’s majestic hammam in Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. After a busy day, treat yourself to a personalised hammam experience to loosen the muscles and alleviate stress. Different packages are available.

Starting at just AED135 per person, guests can sit back and enjoy a sumptuous buffet that includes a selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Afterwards, you’re treated to complimentary drinks at the chic rooftop bar Up and Below. Call (0)2 698

Choose your favourite cut of meat, get it cooked to desired perfection and pick your sides.

Now enjoy your dinner in a souq-style market setting. Round off the meal with the cowboy doughnuts, freshly baked each day. From 5.30pm to 11pm, AED245++ incl. house beverages.

Alice in Wonderland on Ice at Emirates Palace Auditorium

(0)5 0446 4193 for more info.

Asian Tapas Feast at The Yacht Club InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Call (0)2 666 6888 for more info.

Hammam Package at So Spa in Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

Call (0)2 813 7777 for bookings and more info.

The Bistro’s Friday Brunch at Courtyard

By Marriott, WTC

2222 for more info.

The Butcher’s Grill in Sofra bld at Shangri-La Qaryat Al-Beri i

Call (0)2 509 8888 for more info. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#Ramadan #& #Eid #Celebrations #at #Yas #Mall Yas Mall welcomed visitors and shoppers to experience the Holy Month of Ramadan and Eid-alFitr. Visitors were able to enjoy traditional Arabic music, henna, Arabic calligraphy, sougha ladies showcasing Emirati heritage, delicious cuisines and exciting family entertainment. On Eid, everyone who spent AED500 or more had the chance to interact at the Fortune games at Town Square and win prizes. There was also a Lego workshop for kids and spin the wheel prizes at Candylicious.

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T he A r t o f A bst r act E x p r essi o n

The Oxford Dictionary describes abstract art as “Art that does not attempt to represent external reality, but seeks to achieve its effect using shapes, forms, colours, and textures.” Staying true to this is a UAEbased artist whose creativity and colours had us in awe. FACT’s Pallavi Ramesh talks to Natasha Kowalski to find out exactly what sets off her artistic flair… fact magazine

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Arts interview

“I’m fascinated by the idea of tapping into the human psyche and being able to connect with the viewer on an emotional level.”

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GO: Connect with Natasha Kowalski through her social media platforms. Visit www. natashakowalski. com or check her Instagram page; @natashadidit or send her a tweet on @natashadidit.

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hen I think of abstract art, I think of art in its purest form – beautiful and raw. It’s more than just a painting; it’s the artist’s representation of what they see. An expressive message is brought onto the canvas, making the piece of art personal and with endless possibilities. The lovely artist we’re bringing you this month is Natasha Kowalski, who produces brilliant abstract pieces. Natasha paints abstract using liquid acrylic inks to create multiple layers in combination with intricate patterns. “It’s a sensory experience and a visual journey,” she says.

Natasha loves to travel and finds her source of inspiration while she explores new places. “Recently I visited New York and stayed in Chelsea, an art-centric neighbourhood packed with inspiration,” she recalls. “I was lucky to have a local music producer introduce me to the underground jazz scene, where I spent a week exploring jazz clubs.” Natasha learned a lot about the music industry and left New York with a notepad of sketches and new project ideas.

Strongly inspired by music and literature, you’ll see traces of Rachmaninov and Debussy in her paintings, fuelled by emotion and orchestral colour. “At the moment I’m obsessed with Rachmaninov’s Prelude in G Minor, Op.23, No.5, it helps me tune out from the noise in the world and focus on my creative process,” she explains.

Natasha is originally from Australia and has been living in Abu Dhabi for the past six months. Her aunt, who is also an artist, had a great influence on Natasha

Arts interview

“Each morning when I wake up, I add a huge dose of creativity, rebellion, and determination to my agenda. I also delete the words ‘fear’ and ‘self doubt’ from my personal dictionary. Fear will only inhibit you.” from a very young age. They would visit art galleries together and study the different techniques of influential artists. We’re not surprised to learn then, that Natasha has a traditional Fine Arts degree and Masters of Design Science from Sydney University, Australia.

With immense knowledge of, and experience in, the field of art, was it tough for Natsaha to decide which creative style to choose? Her background in Fine Arts sharpened her skills at creating representational art as the years passed.

“Representational Art is an essential tool for all abstract artists,” Natasha says. “After mastering those skills, I decided to explore alternate methods for interpreting the world, beyond literal representation.”

Colours play a major role in abstract art, as much of the time they represent the emotions in a piece. Each colour has its own meaning and is used differently by

each artist. And colour is one thing that is so vividly eye-catching in Natasha’s work, who reveals that she majored in colour theory during her Masters, and was always fascinated by the psychology of colour. She says: “Colour is integral to my compositions. My paintings explore the influence of colour on the human psyche. Colour greatly influences human emotions, especially when used in certain combinations, the viewer gains a personal experience and has a unique connection with the work,” she says.

Having a portfolio of such strong and characterful pieces, I ask Natasha if she has a favourite, and to my surprise, yes she does! “Inkscapes, my latest collection is a visual expression of my experiences in the Middle East,” she says. “Inkscape #1 is close to my heart.” It was the first large scale painting she produced, and the first piece she sold. “It was a beautiful moment when the client sent me a picture of it in her living room,” she adds.

Natasha is an artist who adds a great personal touch to her artwork, with a note on the back of every painting, in the form of a puzzle. She writes it in a poetic manner which strongly shows her love for writing and literature, too. “In a recent painting of mine I wrote: ‘I wasn’t sure what I thought of you so I thought I should paint it.’ It’s a secret puzzle for the owner of the piece,” she reveals. This is definitely an endearing gesture by an artist.

So, what would Natasha advise young, budding artists? “Determination is essential because you will get a lot of rejections,” she admits. “Giving up is only a missed opportunity. Ignore anyone who tells you to get a ‘real’ job. This is your real job! Many people don’t believe it’s possible to follow your life’s passion and make a success. Don’t let their insecurities inhibit your dreams,” she says.

As far as abstract art goes, Natasha is one mega-talented woman with bucket loads of determination and love for what she does, and I love how she keeps her love for literature and poetry alive in her colourful creations – way to go! ➻ fact magazine

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Arts interview

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Arts interview

“Regular travel and immersing myself in new cultural environments is key to my creative process.� fact magazine

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Arts interview

Favourite Pizza topping Buffalo mozzarella; visiting Italy ruined me.

Coffee or Tea Lots of tea.

Favourite cuisine and dish Japanese, and I love Sashimi Twitter or Instagram Instagram - a magical photograph is priceless.

Heels or flats Definitely heels! Flats are for the gym.

Your role model Diane von Furstenberg Artist you admire Wassily Kandinsky. His essay ‘Concerning the Spiritual in Art’ is my bible.

Favourite movie Casablanca, I have an obsession for classics.

If you had one superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation, my first stop would be lunch in Paris.

Favourite pastime Listening to Rachmaninoff whilst painting.

Favourite dessert Salted caramel brownies 22

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ARTS EXHIBITION

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ARTS EXHIBITION

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words Opening in mid-September is an exhibition of photographs titled HER by French-Italian photographer Matilde Gattoni. She captures moments in the everyday life of women from different cultures, countries and walks of life. We caught up with the lady behind the lens to learn more‌

Throughout her career spanning 15 years, 35 countries and four continents, photographer Matilde Gattoni has had the unique opportunity to encounter thousands of women from all corners of the world, from explorers in Dubai to war refugees in Kenya, Eritrea and Lebanon, from cluster bomb victims in Laos to tsunami survivors in Indonesia, from victims of domestic violence to land grabbing evictees. Despite their very different backgrounds and cultures, Matilde has built a strong connection with all of them by witnessing the life-changing events they experienced and the resulting impact on their lives.

As disparate as their stories might seem, all of the women Matilde has portrayed share an innate capacity of resilience and courage, no matter what difficulties they had to face. Although shunned and marginalised in many countries, they are often the hidden backbone of families and communities. This exhibition is a tribute to their bravery and capacity to deal with apparently insurmountable challenges, be they war, natural calamity, or the prejudices that exist within their own society. HER is an ode to all of these women and a celebration of their resilience and fortitude. Here, Matilde takes us through her journey into photography‌ ➝

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Hi Matilde! Could you tell us about how you got started as a photographer? Do you find yourself taking a particular approach consistently, or is it different with each story?

I started when I was 19, I travelled to Morocco with my father’s SLR, bought 40 rolls of black and white Ilford films in a small shop in Casablanca and wandered around the country for a month. When I came back home I realised the films had been exposed to sunlight as all the frames were covered with round lighter shapes, but it was love at first sight. I’ve been a professional photographer for 15 years now and I can feel my approach changing, I think it follows my personal path, the more I photograph and the more I feel the need to find myself in the others. I’m not anymore in search for the “exotic” but more for the familiar.

“I want to share the lives of some incredibly inspiring women I have met during the past 15 years.”

If you think of one of your favourite images, why does it speak to you?

The images that I didn’t get to take for different reasons, I didn’t have the camera with me, the moment went away fast... I still have them clearly in my mind. In general I like to think more about my next image.

How would you describe your photographic approach?

It is a human approach, fed by the need to understand the others, why do they live in a certain way, how do they adapt to changes be they positive or negative, how do they survive hardships and why.

What do you hope to share or communicate in this exhibition?

I want to share the lives of some incredibly inspiring women I have met during the past 15 years. These are heroes; they fight every day to survive, to protect their children or simply to carry on in a world that often underestimates their role in the society. These women have taught me to persevere and this is my ode to them.

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ARTS EXHIBITION

Do you remember the first photo you took and what continues to inspire you with photography?

I remember the first set of images I took in Morocco, looking back at them I realise they were nothing special but at that time it seemed like a revelation.

My subjects are definitely the driving force as well as my readers. Last month, thanks to the help of some readers we managed to raise money for a single mother I had met in Laos whose husband died after stepping on a cluster bomb and a young Nepali who had lost his house during the earthquake.

What has been the most challenging photography project or the most difficult moment that you’ve had to capture?

The most difficult subjects are the most sensitive and vulnerable ones, people who are experiencing trauma or PTSD, post traumatic stress disorder. For example, war refugees or victims of sexual abuse. You have a mixed feeling that you shouldn’t be there and that you have to be there and tell their story at the same time.

What do you enjoy most about photography?

Photography has given me the chance to approach people. I’m extremely shy, and I don’t know how I would have managed without photography. It also helps me to put a little bit of order in the chaos we live in.

Any advice for young budding photographers?

Study, preferably history and history of the arts or economy, understand how the world functions before you take the responsibility to tell people how it works through your own eyes. ✤

“My subjects are definitely the driving force as well as my readers. Last month, thanks to the help of some readers we managed to raise money for a single mother I had met in LaoS...”

GO: HER exhibition is open to the public for free from September 14 to October 31, in the Gulf Photo Plus gallery space, Unit D36, Alserkal Avenue.

Visit www.gulfphotoplus.com or call 0(4) 380 8545 for more information.

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SOCIETY

#The #Art #of #Skin #Exhibition #Opening A unique perspective on the beauty and individuality of human skin was showcased in a compelling art exhibition created by pioneering French dermo-cosmetic brand Bioderma to raise awareness on the importance and the need to stay protected from the sun by using the right sun protection.

Curated at the Mojo Gallery in Dubai, the photographic exhibition includes black and white portraits of ordinary beachgoers before and after applying sunscreen, and were captured using a UV lens.

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Artistic Journeys:

New Angles,

New Perspectives Celebrating the long-standing relationship between the two countries, Qatar Turkey 2015: Year of Culture aims to forge new, and support existing, partnerships in the arts, education and sport while promoting an awareness and appreciation of each country’s culture, achievements and heritage. This new photography exhibition at Katara is the first step in showcasing both the diversity and beauty of both countries‌

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LOCAL ARTS

From the magical mosques of Istanbul to the pseudo-moonscapes of Cappadocia, and from the vibrant cityscapes of Doha to the shifting sands of the Qatari desert; four photographers from two different Muslim nations documented their journeys as moments captured in time, engaging in an inspiring exchange of artistic discovery and cultural dialogue. Their aim was to capture real people in their natural environments.

The photography exhibition Artistic Journeys: New Angles; New Perspectives, is a unique visual interpretation of this year’s Qatar Turkey 2015: Year of Culture. In collaboration with the Qatar Photographic Society (QPS), the Qatari and Turkish Ministries of Culture and See My Culture, and sponsored by Exxonmobil, Qatar Airways and W Doha, Qatar Turkey 2015: sent two Qatari photographers, Sara Al Obaidly and Saleh Al Marri, on an expedition in Turkey to snap its landscapes, people, food, culture, and touristic highlights. The aim was to capture the essence of Turkey through Qatari eyes. Immersed in the day-to-day lives of families and artisans, the photographers enjoyed a rare opportunity to photograph Turkey, among its ethnic and geographic diversity. From the vibrant quarters of Istanbul to the cave houses of Cappadocia, from bustling bazaars to peaceful mosques and sumptuous palaces, they went behind the scenes to interpret, in images, Turkey’s rich culture and history as it is in the heart of its people.

This photography exhibition will also showcase the best works of the two Turkish photographers - Ali Muhammet Bayraktariglu and Hasan Yelken – who were invited to journey across the Arabian Peninsula to experience Qatar through Turkish eyes. The results were spectacular and this exhibition showcases the best photographs taken during both trips.

Reflecting on the exchange programme, Safiya al Hajari, Director of the Qatar Museums’ Office of Strategic Cultural Relations, says: “Both countries are home to rich and diverse cultural practices. The aim for such a cultural exchange is to capture both Turkish and Qatari cultural identities through the artistic expression of photographers. Such an exchange is at the heart of Qatar Turkey 2015: Year of Culture mission,” she adds.

Sara Al Obaidly

Sara is a portrait and documentary photographer from Doha, Qatar. She completed her education in England, where she received her BA and MA at The University of Brighton. Confronting contemporary political, philosophical and social issues, with a clear and incisive vision, Sara presents the intimate moments of human emotion through portraiture and a wider view of the region and its intricacies in her landscape compositions. Recently commissioned by Qatar Museums, Sara’s work Qatar: Old Hearts, New World was showcased in an exhibition of Qatari and Brazilian artists Huna Hunak (Here There) as part of the Qatar Brazil 2014: Year of Culture. Sara has been shortlisted for the prestigious Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Award in 2014 and her piece, Together We Stand, was an exhibit at The National Portrait Gallery, London until February 2015. Her works were also shortlisted for the Association of Photographers (AOP) Award and The Al Thani Award. ➻

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LOCAL ARTS

Sara Al Obaidly

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Saleh Al Marri

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LOCAL ARTS

Saleh Al Marri

Saleh graduated from Qatar University with a degree in Media in 2008.

He is currently studying for a Masters at Cairo University on the Role of Visual Culture in Social Development. Saleh’s interest in photography began in 2007 as part of a university photo-journalism project for Al Raya newspaper where he was introduced to the world of photography and started to learn how to convey messages and stories through images.

Saleh took an interest in portrait photography and then landscape and cityscape photography, however his real passion is capturing people in their daily lives. Some of Saleh’s achievements include winning the Traditional Dhow competition in Qatar, the Sheikh Sultan Festival in UAE, and a commission by Abu Dhabi TV for whom he produced a mosaic sculpture of a photograph, unveiled in April 2015, in a popular square in Abu Dhabi. Saleh has a large following on instagram and is an official Alpha Influencer for SONY MENA where he regularly holds photography training for SONY employees and clients as well as testing their new cameras.

“In his spare time, Ali likes to photograph food and daily life in Turkey.”

Ali Muhammet Bayraktariglu

Ali is Faculty Dean and academic staff at the Faculty of Fine Arts in Trakya University. He was born in Bayindir, Izmir in 1967. His interest in photography started at a young age. There was a tradition in Turkey at that time in which families organised apprenticeships for their children during the summer holidays. At the age of 10, Ali chose to be a photography apprentice in Tire, Izmir. He then decided he wanted to study photography and obtained a degree from Dokuz Eylul University. In 1997 he received a scholarship to attend an MFA degree in Photography from the Savannah College of Art and Design in the US. He also has a PhD in Communications from Ankara University. In his spare time, Ali likes to photograph food and daily life in Turkey. Ali is a member of several prestigious photographic societies such as GAFSAD and IFSAD in Turkey and has research interests in alternative photography techniques, intelligent technologies and photography, the ideological function of photography and propaganda, and understanding social documentary photography. ➻

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Ali Muhammet Bayraktariglu

Hasan Yelken

Hasan is a dentist. The natural beauty he came across during his travels around the world is what inspired him to take up photography. In 1995, he became a member of the Gaziantep Association of Art Photography where he went on to become Chairman of the Board of Directors from 1998 to 2006. Being a photographer was a big turning point in Hasan’s life and he believes it has made his life more meaningful. Hasan divides his life into two parts: before photography and after. After photography he started to explore life and people in a different way. He has also had the opportunity to explore other cultures and occupations. Hasan has taught Basic Photography in Gaziantep University and has a book on Flowers of Gaziantep. He is a member of the publication board for an arts and culture magazine called Ayıntap, published in Gaziantep in which he also writes travel articles.

Since becoming a photographer, Hasan has become more environmentally conscious. He believes that photographers should be a witness to change in our rapidly shifting world and should document societies around them. ✤

GO: The Artistic Journeys: New Angles; New Perspectives exhibition will run from September 1 to September 30 in the Qatar Photographic Society Gallery, Building 18 in Katara.

@YearsofCulture T @YearsofCulture f fb.com/YearsofCulture Y Years of Culture 34

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Hasan Yelken

Your time to reconnect

A family holiday is even more relaxing when it’s close to home. Here in the heart of Doha, discover a kid-friendly urban resort, with an array of restaurants and lounges, beachfront pools, fun children’s activities and a lavish spa for parents. Intuitive Four Seasons care makes everything easy.

Explore our offers and packages: fourseasons.com/doha fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#Thai #Festival #at #Yas #Mall #Abu #Dhabi The Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand in Dubai and big support from Yas Mall, Etihad Airways, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Cobra Fitness, and the Thai Chef Community in Abu Dhabi, all came together in support of an awesome two-day Thai festival at Yas Mall Abu Dhabi. Filled with exciting activities including Thai music, boxing and live cooking stations, crowds were seen enjoying themselves and immersing in Thai culture.

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FANTASTIC

04 EID ESCAPES

Tired of just siting on a beach for so many days straight? Need something different to spice up your next getaway? Check out these awesome (and not your usual) holiday packages that you can experience during the long Eid Al-Adha break‌

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Movielicious at Mandarin PERFECT FOR: Film Fans WHERE: Mandarin Oriental, Prague Mandarin Oriental, Prague’s new movie-themed accommodation package gives guests an opportunity to experience Prague for the top international film location that it is. Offering an exciting insight into Hollywood filmmaking and providing celebrity-like treats, the hotel’s Movielicious Getaway package has been launched to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. With countless beguiling corners, secret patios and splendid palaces, Prague is one of Europe’s most seductive cities and an acclaimed filming destination, where films such as Amadeus, Casino Royale and Mission Impossible were made. By booking Mandarin Oriental, Prague’s movie-themed package guests can walk in the steps of Ethan Hunt and James Bond. Your cinematic adventure begins by checking-in under the name of your favourite film character before enjoying a special movie-themed welcome drink at the bar. You can then take a guided Prague Movielicious Tour of your choice to see where some famous scenes were shot. Barrandov Film Studios will open its gates exclusively for Mandarin Oriental guests to enjoy a backstage tour before offering them an optional extra of having a Movie Star Makeover with professional costume fitters, hair stylists and make-up artists, followed by a photo shoot. You’ll be put up in sumptuous accommodation and provided with a round trip limousine service, as well as enjoying 38

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daily breakfast in the comfort of the guestroom. You’ll also have a Movielicious film collection with popcorn and soda in your room, and will receive a special keepsake from your stay.

Price: Package rates start from EUR1,665 based on double occupancy for a minimum of three nights stay, excluding 15 per cent VAT. GO: Fly to Prague with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul. Call +420 233 088 888 or visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.

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City Living at Corinthia PERFECT FOR: Architecture Enthusiasts WHERE: Corinthia Hotel, St Petersburg Throughout the summer season, the magnificent Corinthia St Petersburg is all set to promise its guests travelling from the GCC an unforgettable stay, while experiencing the grandeur of Russia’s second largest city and the country’s cultural heart. As the former imperial capital of Russia, St Petersburg is home to some of the most opulent regal architecture, including the famous Royal Summer Residences in the picturesque suburbs. Enjoy three nights in Corinthia Hotel’s luxurious Executive Room while discovering the breathtaking beauty of the city’s famous royal summer residences.

Choose a private guided tour of one of the three most impressive palaces – Peterhof, with its extraordinary gardens and fountains; Pushkin, the last Tsar’s summer residence; or Pavlovsk, the most opulent of all. During your stay, you will enjoy Executive Club benefits and breakfast

in the beautiful Imperial Restaurant. St Petersburg is a city of Russian Emperors.

As the nation’s cultural capital, it proudly boasts more than 200 magnificent museums, stunning rivers, charming canals, impressive architecture and vibrant cultural life. If you’re looking for a place offering exciting cultural activities to entertain the whole family, with sumptuous food, rich history and plenty of fun – this is the destination for you! Guests looking to shop in St Petersburg will be glad to know that Corinthia St Petersburg is the only 5 star hotel located closest to the city’s biggest and most frequented malls, the Galleria and Stockman. Fashion lovers from the GCC would have a great time browsing through the shopping mall and discovering homegrown as well as international labels.

Price: Package rates start from USD137 per night excluding breakfast.

GO: Fly to St Petersburg with Lufthansa via Frankfurt. Call +420 233 088 888 or visit www.corinthia.com/hotels/stpetersburg for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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Animal Awe at Anantara

PERFECT FOR: Animal & Nature Lovers WHERE:Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand Located in Chiang Rai is one of the world’s best places to stay for natural interaction with elephants. For the elephants living at Anantara Golden Triangle, their lives haven’t always been a fairytale as most started as domesticated elephants begging on the streets of Thailand. The Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation has rescued approximately 40 elephants from the streets. Twenty of these majestic mammals are still living happily with their mahouts and families at Anantara Golden Triangle’s onsite Elephant Camp. The resort is renowned for its highly acclaimed onsite Elephant Camp, which offers guests an inspirational range of fun, interactive and educational experiences with its friendly herd of rescued gentle giants. In a natural extension of these ethical elephant activities, a new two hour Walking with Giants experience has been introduced, offering a more personal and enriching encounter. Here, you can get up close and personal and learn more about these 40

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majestic mammals. Guests who sign up for Walking with Giants join the elephants on their daily stroll, accompanied by their mahout caregivers and either the Camp’s resident vet or biologist. After walking from the Elephant Camp out to the grasslands or forest, depending on the season, the antics of either river bath time or playtime in the mud illustrates just how cheeky these graceful animals can be. You can also help to prepare ele-snacks, as well as activities for their behavioural enrichment.

Meandering back to the camp, the scientific expert explains about elephant biology

and behaviour, and also reveals fascinating facts and insights about the past, present and hopeful future for all of Thailand’s elephants. Walking with Giants, along with the Mahout Experience and Elephant Learning Experience, is offered as part of the resort’s luxurious all-inclusive Discovery Package, while a range of additional elephant activities (Elephant Yoga, Sunset Elephant Trek, Dining by Design at the Baby Elephant Camp and Elephant Picnic) are available at an extra charge.

Price: The Discovery Package rates start from USD802.

GO: Fly to Chiang Rai with Qatar Airways via Bangkok. Call +66 53 784 084 or visit www.goldentriangle.anantara.com for reservations and more information.

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Luxury on Lake Como PERFECT FOR: complete escapism WHERE: grand hotel tremezzo, lake como If you’re the type of holidaymaker who likes the best of both worlds – that means, yes to a beach, yes to some culture, and yes to a little bit of everything in between, this beautiful destination and hotel will be right up your travel street! Dating back to 1910 and Art Nouveau in style and decoration, the family owned Grand Hotel Tremezzo commands one of the most enchanting positions on Lake Como with spectacular panoramic views of both the town of Bellagio, the Riviera delle Azalee and the stunning Grigne Mountains. The revamped lakeside retreat offers guests the ultimate beachside experience complete with a floating pool on Lake Como and a private beach. Ensuring an unrivalled luxury experience, the iconic 94-room hotel offers a variety of activities for those guests seeking a fun-filled holiday in the sun including clay tennis courts, three different pools both indoor and outdoor and a top luxury fully renovated spa in collaboration with ESPA. In addition to the new daily offerings available at T Beach, the venue plays host to a renowned beach parties throughout the season. Music, cuisine and the location’s unforgettable ambiance create an evening that guests and locals will remember for a lifetime. You can vacation like a true Italian and stay in a suite overlooking the beauty of Lake Como. The special package at Grand Hotel Tremezzo includes a two-night stay in a luxury suite; breakfast served in-room each morning or at La Terrazza restaurant; in-room drinks and strawberries upon arrival; and one a la

carte dinner for two with bubbly signed by the Italian Maestro Gualtiero Marchesi served in the privacy of your suite. That dreamy sense of escapism is exactly the reason that Lake Como, a narrow, 30-milelong lake has always been a retreat for artists, writers, aristocrats, and now, the very newly rich.

Price: The special package starts from EUR1,200 per night for double occupancy in a suite.

GO: Fly to Milan Malpensa (25 miles south of Como town) with Lufthansa via Frankfurt. Visit www.grandhoteltremezzo. com for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#Abu #Dhabi #Officers’ #Club #Summer #Camp Hundreds of children participated in a summer camp organised by the Abu Dhabi Officers’ Club and Hotel. The camp provided the participants aged five to 13-years-old with various activities including exercises, sports, swimming, shooting, tennis, bowling and other games. Nearly 300 children in that age range attended this year’s summer camp, which also included free cinema showings of educational movies for kids, as well as beverage and sweets.

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Summer Staycation As the September routine sets in, it doesn’t mean you can’t continue to enjoy the sunny days with family and friends, right here in Abu Dhabi. Many of the capital’s hotels have some fantastic packages that you can still take advantage of to end the season on a high…

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StaycationS

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers If a relaxing spa vacation isn’t quite the speed you want, enjoy The Ultimate Fast & Luxurious Experience at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers until September 30. Inspired by the filming of Furious 7 at the stylish and cosmopolitan hotel, this star-like experience will take guests on two days of exhilarating adventures, on the road and in the air. The package includes a stay at the hotel’s most luxurious suite and dinner at the highest dining venue in Abu Dhabi. The adventure begins with a limousine pick-up from the airport (or preferred city location) before guests can check into the Royal Etihad Suite that occupies the entire 60th floor. In true movie style, guests can then hit the roads of Abu Dhabi in a speedy McLaren, Ferrari or Lamborghini before a helicopter tour of the city and the chance to experience the F1 track in an Aston Martin. Once the adrenaline of the day has settled, enjoy a private dinner at the Observation Deck at 300, the highest dining point in the capital. High above the city lights, the skilled chefs will serve an exclusive menu against the backdrop of live violin music. The next evening guests can enjoy a five-course dinner at Ray’s Grill on the 63rd floor, allowing time to unwind and reflect on all the day’s exciting events.

What we love: The chance to see Abu Dhabi from new heights and live like a Hollywood star for the weekend.

Jumeirah at Ethiad Towers

What we love: The various pool and lounging areas and stunning views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

GO: Call (0) 2 509 8888 for reservations and more information.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi

GO: Call (0) 2 811 5555 for prices, reservations and more information.

Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri is offering an amazing package for families wanting to relax and unwind in Abu Dhabi. Guests can enjoy a luxurious break in a sumptuous suite for two adults and three children with a complimentary adjoining room for added comfort, starting at just AED1,650 per night.

The package includes daily buffet breakfast at the vast and lavish Sofra bld. Parents may also take advantage of the children’s room to 44

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occupy young minds with fun-filled activities while they get pampered at CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, with 25% off on spa treatments.

The offer is available until December 31 for a minimum of two nights. Rates are subject to a 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee per room, per night. Children must be below 18 years old.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Set in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s Al Maqta district, this beautiful five-star property has great deals for UAE residents and visitors to avail. The Early Bird Family Villa package is valid until December 31 and includes overnight accommodation in a two-bedroom villa for two adults and two children; complimentary breakfast and dinner in Giornotte restaurant and welcome amenities as well as supervised activities for children at the Ritz Kids Club. This offer with luxurious accommodation and meals for the entire family, starts at AED1,500++ per room, per night. The Rejuvenate You package is suited to those who want a spa escape in the city.

It includes two-night accommodation in a luxurious deluxe room or a spacious onebedroom villa; your choice of a 60-minute Swedish, Deep Muscle or Hot Stone massage; 15% savings on additional spa treatments and ESPA retail products; and one sumptuous lunch per stay in Giornotte restaurant. Also valid through to December 31, starting at AED1,310++per room, per night. Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for more offers and all the terms and conditions.

What we love: The fabulous dining options and exquisite ESPA treatments.

GO: Call (0) 2 818 8888 for reservations and more information.

Shangri-la Hotel

StaycationS

Qasr al sarab desert resort

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara

Qasr al sarab desert resort

Dusit thani abu dhabi

For those who wish to retreat in the essence of luxury at one of the world’s most romantic destinations, the Summer Villa offer was designed for you. Visit this lavish oasis in the midst of the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world, just 90 minutes away from Abu Dhabi, and create long lasting memories. The package includes an overnight stay in a One Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa with a hearty breakfast for two adults. In addition to enjoying the palatial comfort of the luxury accommodation, which includes a private pool, a sunbathing deck and cabana and an outdoor shower, guests can take part in exciting sunrise and sunset desert activities, or simply spend quality time at the Anantara Spa. Add to that a signature private dining experience such as Villa BBQ or Dining by Design to make for the ultimate romantic escape. The offer is valid until end of September 2015. Rates start from AED1,999 (subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee) per night in a One Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa, inclusive of buffet breakfast for two adults.

What we love: The stunning spa and the chance to experience awesome desert activities.

GO: Call (0) 2 886 2088 for reservations and more information.

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Here’s one place where it’s offers galore, and we love it! Discover Abu Dhabi with the Summer Family Adventure package which includes two tickets to either Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World, a visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and so much more. Added benefits include buffet breakfast for two people in Urban Kitchen; one way car transfer to Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld; complimentary use of the Kids Club; a private guided tour and round trip transfers to Miraj Islamic Art Museum

and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; plus 20% off on Namm Spa treatments and selected dining venues. For the complete escape, try the Family Getaways package which has a whole host of privileges.

You’ll get welcome drinks and cold/hot towel on arrival; 50% off a second room rate reserved for children upon check-in; adjoining/connecting rooms guaranteed for two rooms booked at the same time; complimentary baby cot or rollaway bed for child under 12 years of age sharing room with parents; complimentary breakfast for family up to four - two adults and two children under 12 years of age; complimentary use of Kids Club subject to availability of facilities; complimentary soft drinks and selected fruit juices for children under 12 years of age at poolside; special turndown with milk and cookies for the children; 20% off on dining and a la carte spa treatments; and complimentary Wi-Fi (how’s that for a getaway?!).

What we love: Great dining options and added benefits for every member of the family.

GO: Call (0) 2 698 8888 for prices, reservations and more information.

Emirates Palace Celebrating the sunshine with A Family Summer at the Palace package, if it’s allround fun and escapism you’re after from everyday life, Emirates Palace is the place to find it. Enjoy an exciting getaway with 10% off room and suite rates with complimentary breakfast at Le Vendome Brasserie. Revel in this refreshing stay with soulful spa time, recreational activities, restaurants, cafes, lounges and bars in abundance. The offer is valid until September 30 with rates subject to a 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee.

What we love: The mini-waterpark style pool and the beautiful beach.

GO: Call (0) 2 690 8888 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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StaycationS

Centro Yas Island

Emirates palace Centro yas island

southern sun abu dhabi

Rosewood abu dhabi

Stay and be amazed as you explore the thrilling wonders at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Double the fun with exceptional benefits that include a delectable buffet breakfast for two adults at c.taste, as well as either oneday or two-da park passes for Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Book the 1-Day Park Pass starting from AED749++ on weekdays and AED799++ on weekends. Book the 2-Day Park Pass starting from AED599++ on weekdays and AED649++ on weekends, with a minimum of two nights stay. Prices are per room, per night and offer is valid until September 30. The Stay & Brunch offer is ideal for a weekend of pure fun.

Delight in one of the best brunches and stay in Centro comfortable rooms at a great rate, with access to the refreshing pool or the stunning Yas Beach. This special package includes breakfast and brunch at c. taste starting for AED449++ for single occupancy and AED549++ for double occupancy.

Upgrade your stay and brunch for a supplement of AED60++ per person, inclusive of selected house beverages.

Friday brunch at c.taste is from 12:30pm until 4pm. Offer is subject to availability for a maximum of two adults, and check-in is on Fridays from 3pm onwards.

What we love: Location is perfect for exploring nearby attractions.

GO: Call (0) 2 656 4444 for reservations and more information.

Southern Sun Abu Dhabi Set your heart racing with the best water or hi-speed adventure in Abu Dhabi. Experience Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld while you pamper yourself with luxury and exceptional service at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi. Package includes two tickets to Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld; complimentary breakfast per 46

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person; complimentary early check-in or late check-out subject to hotel availability; free hi-speed WiFi; and free access to the health club and rooftop swimming pool.

Starting from just AED325++ per person in a double room. If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, check out the hotel’s Romantic Getaway offer for two. Let Southern Sun help you to impress your special someone with a luxury stay celebrating romance, complete with a honeymoon set-up and upgradeable to a suite to let you enjoy your privacy. This memorable experience includes a special heart-shaped cake, and complimentary AED300 dining credit in any of the hotel’s restaurants. If that’s not enough, there’s an early check-in and a late check-out too.

Packages start from AED849++. Both offers are valid until October 31.

What we love: Spacious and comfortable rooms with excellent added extras.

GO: Call (0) 2 818 4888 for reservations and more information.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi Absolutely perfect for the little ones in the family, the Prince and Princess offer is ideal for families who want a weekend break close to home. This perfect adventure is specially designed for little prince and princess to enjoy with mummy and daddy.

There’s a castle with its own little Rose Buds brunch, with accommodation and Friday brunch for mummy and daddy too. The package includes luxury accommodation; a prince and princess play set for children; breakfast at Aqua Restaurant for two adults and one child; Friday brunch for two adults, and Friday Rose Buds brunch for one child. Valid until December 31, visit www. rosewoodhotels.com for all the terms and conditions, and prices.

What we love: All the special benefits for children and option to wander Galleria Mall.

GO: Call (0) 2 813 5550 for prices, reservations and more information.

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REVIEWS

Big Screen

Black Mass What’s it about:

This is the biopic of Boston gangster James ‘Whitey’ Bulger, the brother of a state senator, who became an FBI informant and used this status, as well as that of being the area’s most infamous criminal, to eliminate his competition – a mafia family trying to invade his turf – from the 1970s to early 90s.

Director: Scott Cooper cast: Johnny Depp, Dakota Johnson, Joel Edgerton, Benedict Cumberbatch, Kevin Bacon, Peter Sarsgaard Why it’s worth watching?

“It’s not what you do, it’s when and where you do it. And who you do it to or with,” says Whitey Bulger to his six-year-old son in the Black Mass trailer. “If nobody sees it… it didn’t happen.” But we all know that much of what we’ll see in this film did actually happen. Boston’s Whitey Bulger, played by Johnny Depp, was, at one time (hell, probably still to this day), the most feared, most wanted, and most notorious gangster in U.S. history. And the film’s trailer certainly confirms this. Johnny Depp is ruthless and cunning, and his portrayal of Bulger is all about intimidation, domination and brutal violence – it’s simply terrifying and we love it. Critics are already saying that this is the best performance from Johnny Depp that we’ve seen in a very long time, as he captures Bulger’s split personality – charming and loved by his neighbours, and deeply feared and merciless towards his opponents – incredibly well. If it’s straight up, intense, cold-blooded drama that you’re after, Black Mass will deliver this, and then some! We hear award season calling out for this one!

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Highlights

Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials

“Johnny Depp is ruthless and cunning, and his portrayal of Bulger is all about intimidation, domination and brutal violence – it’s simply terrifying and we love it.”

What’s it about: They’ve escaped the Maze, and now, the Gladers face a new, sinister threat known as “cranks” – a set of people infected by the virus that has scoured humanity. Their journey for answers quickly takes them to the Scorch – a desolate postapocalyptic wasteland filled with unexpected obstacles.

Black Mass

“The story deepens as Thomas, played

by Dylan O’Brien, and his fellow Gladers, take refuge in a barren city after discovering that the mysterious WCKD organisation...”

Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials.

Director: Wes Ball cast: Dylan O’Brien, Aidan Gillan, Kaya Scodelario, Nathalie Emmanuel Why it’s worth watching?

We’re actually fans of the first Maze Runner film. It’s a solid film. Even for another studio attempt to cash off a book-to-big-screen remake, the film had a strong cast, an intensely gripping plot, and great special effects that brought the gigantic maze to life. The sequel is basically all of that on steroids! The story deepens as Thomas, played by Dylan O’Brien, and his fellow Gladers, take refuge in a barren city after discovering that the mysterious WCKD organisation has some unpleasant plans for them in the battle against the cranks. Little do they know that they aren’t alone in this new wilderness they’ve taken asylum in.

REVIEWS

on the record

Fully Booked

THRILLER

After the Storm: A Kate Burkholder Novel

By Linda Castillo

ALTERNATIVE R&B/SOUL

Beauty Behind the Madness

By The Weeknd

Now, how do we describe a predominantly R&B artist who is breaking all the musical barriers with his addictive beats and throwback sound?

One word: The Weeknd. Though we don’t know much about Abel Tesfaye himself (he does have a social media presence, but much of this man’s personal life is shrouded in mystery), what we do know is that since he dropped the nine-track mixtape, House of Balloons, back in 2009, he has been unstoppable. His sound is radio-ready and there are clear traces of contemporary R&B à la Trey Songz, Jeremih, and Drake (who happens to be a huge supporter and fellow Torontonian of Abel), but there is something about the production and song craft that gives The Weeknd a little more of an edge and appeal to listeners. Beauty Behind the Madness is a gorgeous collection of electrifying melodies, featuring the Michael Jackson-style, disco-funk-sounding Can’t Feel My Face, the booming and hypnotic The Hills, and the psychedelic serenading Often (we had this one on repeat for a long time). Fans who have been with Abel since the start will appreciate how much he’s grown and his fan base is sure to sky rocket.

ECLECTIC POP/ ROCK

Theorems

By Icicle Rolling Stone described his sound like this: “It’s

If you love edge-of-the-seat style action, this won’t disappoint. It’s an electrifying thriller in which Chief of Police Kate Burkholder has a new, and mysterious, case on her hands.

After a tornado tears through Painters Mill and unearths human remains, it’s Kate’s job to identify the bones and notify the family. Kate finds herself plunged into a thirty year old case that takes her deep into the Amish community to which she once belonged. Secrets are revealed, her personal life gets complicated, her focus is distracted. Highly recommended for mainstream mystery lovers, however, not for the faint-hearted as this book goes in-depth with some explicit violent scenes.

as if Simple Minds had a baby with Depeche Mode and Placebo!” So, you can only imagine how exciting the sophomore album from Icicle is going to sound. Theorems consists of 12 very strong and personal compositions created during an exceptionally intense period for him. It bounces between rock and pop, accessible and innovative yet open and defiant. While Theorems marks his second solo release, Halatchev’s team spirit has closely tied him together with Florida based poet Joel Jenkins who wrote lyrics for some of the songs. The merging of the cultural and expressive styles has brought forward a work that

FICTION

Go Set A Watchman: A Novel

is both unique yet familiar. On and On, the album’s

By Harper Lee

second single, is a perfect example for their

You might be a bit skeptical going into this one, after all, what can top Pultizer Prize-winner, Harper Lee’s masterpiece, To Kill A Mockingbird? Well, you’ll be surprised to know that Mockingbird actually started off as Go Set A Watchman, written in the mid-1950s. This book sees 26-year-old Jean Louise Finch return home from New York City to visit her aging father, Atticus. Set against the backdrop of the civil rights tensions and political turmoil that were transforming the South, Jean Louise’s homecoming turns bittersweet when she learns disturbing truths about her close-knit family, the town, and the people dearest to her.

remarkable collaboration. Get your copy online!

“Theorems consists of 12 very strong and personal compositions created during an exceptionally intense period for him. ”

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Q&A

A z i z a a l - ba l o us h i “...the whole book’s essence is about culture clash and resistance to change, and the fears that come with feeling vulnerable in any society.”

Yo u m ight have hea r d it m a n y ti m es bef o r e – a pa r ty gi r l t u r n s t o a m o r e m o de r ate lifestyle afte r a n i m p o r ta n t life e x pe r ie n ce . I n he r n ew b o o k , T he L . A . G i r l G o es t o S au di , A z i z a A l - B al o u shi b r i n gs o n e s u ch st o r y t o life …

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Q&A

h

i Aziza! How would you describe The L.A. Girl Goes to Saudi to someone who has not read the book yet?

It’s a mix of culture clash and a diversion of the mind and subconscious, a cathartic ramp of defiance and nonconformity, repressed emotions, rebelliousness, and then ultimately spiritual awakening, acceptance, and embracement of something different, exotic and richer. A cross cultural, fun, and adventuruous ride through Saudi society from the perspective of an L.A girl.

when she’s unnerved she means it, when she’s confused she says this is confusing. She’s resistant to change, but she finds something richer and deeper than what she expected. But she’s not a follower and she’s not a people pleaser.

What was the most challenging aspect of writing this book and how did you overcome these?

The challenges were to not get in the way of the ebb and flow of my writing style. I feel that God inspires me to write, that he puts the ideas in my head. My late father Ibrahim Al-Baloushi, God rest his soul and enter him into paradise, told me I could do anything I wanted, and that I was capable of anything I set my mind to.

My father exemplified courage, and he influenced me to be courageous, in both my writing styles and in my personal life.

He always taught me to take the plunge and to be bold.

That courage allowed me to overcome any challenges in the process of writing. That is why 50 per cent of the proceeds of my book which are sold on Amazon.com will go to the Ibrahim & Fatema Al-Baloushi foundation, towards aiding disabled children worldwide and funding literacy and Islamic education worldwide.

Authors that influenced you...

My mother Fatema Al-Balooshi is a writer, Baluchi cinema actor, and singer. She is the author that influenced me the most. She had all the master’s around our house while we were growing up; Steinbeck, Tolstoy, Mahfooz, Kafka; she read everybody. Our house was a library, and she would sit me down as a kid and read to me her writings. I was too young to understand the depth of her emotions or the characters and plot lines and I wasn’t that interested in writing.

Later in Santa Monica College I read Nobokov’s Lolita and wrote an essay on the book. My professor was impressed with my writing and offered me a writing scholarship, I didn’t take it and again writing or literature was not my interest , but as fate would have it, a book was written.

Where did you find the inspiration for writing this book?

It’s based on real life when I left L.A. after college to go to Saudi Arabia and be with my father and family. The book was inspired by life in America, and written in Bahrain. The shops and the streets, this island is a haven for writers - you can get easily lost in yourself and your imagination.

Tell us more about the main character, Dina Ahmed, what makes her interesting?

She’s interesting because she speaks her mind. She’s not politically correct when she hates something she expresses;

What sort of feedback have you received?

There is a lot of positive feedback, I must say that the book’s character is interesting and most of the female readers want to see if she marries the prince.

How much did society in both the western world and the Middle East influence the story lines?

They influenced the book completely; the whole book’s essence is about culture clash and resistance to change, and the fears that come with feeling vulnerable in any society. And then finally acceptance to change, like cooking and enjoying Arabic food, and wearing abbayas. The heroine starts embracing her Arab side and has a lot of fun doing it. But it also states that no society is perfect, and that you have to deal with those imperfections as well, and hope for improvement. ✤ GO: Buy The L.A. Girl Goes to Saudi on www.amazon.com today. Follow Aziza on Instagram: @LAgirlgoessaudi Twitter: @LAgirlgoessaudi and Facebook: The L.A Girl Goes To Saudi for more information. fact magazine

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Driving Dodge Muscle

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CITY RIDES

A day out with Dodge’s fleet of muscle cars is always going to be a good experience…

So there we were, on a steamy afternoon at the Yas Marina Circuit, with Dodge’s entire range of American muscle lined up waiting, from the V6 Challenger right up to the mighty 700hp Charger Hellcat and SRT Viper V10.

Saving the best for last, we were first let loose on the standard passenger range of SXT and R/T models. The car I went for first was the Charger SXT, with the 3.6l Pentastar V6. I recall having a go in the very first of the modern day Charger LX platforms with its 250hp 3.5l V6 way back in 2007, and being distinctly unimpressed.

It felt unwieldy, overweight and sluggish, and completely uninspiring.

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I’m very happy to say that the latest V6 Charger is in an entirely different world. The 3.6l Pentastar puts out 292hp and 350Nm of torque, but the improvement is far greater than the 42hp difference suggests, thanks to how the power is put out through the TorqueFlite eight-speed auto, as well as a vastly improved chassis that makes

Despite being a V6, the SXT still feels beefy and enjoyable to drive, making it worthy of the Dodge muscle brand.

the new Charger feel more taught and agile. Despite being a V6, the SXT still feels beefy and enjoyable to drive, making it worthy of the Dodge muscle brand.

Inside things are also vastly improved – even this low-spec SXT is well appointed, with keyless entry and start, a stylish interior, and a sporty looking dash layout with a seven-inch reconfigurable digital cluster display.

Now it was time to move on to the goodies, namely the R/T Charger and Challenger. Both feature Dodge’s meaty 5.7l HEMI, though in the sportier Challenger coupe the powerplant puts out slightly more horses, namely 375hp to the Charger’s

CITY RIDES

370, and 555Nm of torque to the Charger’s 536.

The difference isn’t noticeable when you put your foot down in both cars, although the shorter and lighter Challenger definitely feels more athletic than the sedan. However, both of them are true muscle cars, with big power, and huge fun.

As for the Charger SRT, it definitely looks the part, with a big airscoop on the bonnet to help cool that 485hp 6.4l HEMI V8, and the Dodge ‘crosshair’ grille has been done away with in favour of a more sporty looking mesh grille. And then there are those lovely SRT alloys.

The driving experience is similar to the R/T, though you do feel the big increase in power from the 392 HEMI, and there’s a much meatier note to the engine. ➻ fact magazine

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CITY RIDES

The interior is also more snazzy, with very nice leather and Alcantara combination sports seats, and more features like Launch Control and the various SRT driving modes in the dash.As the day wore on time quickly began to run out, and as a result we were all given an agonizing choice - we had to choose between a drive in the Charger Hellcat, or a drive in the SRT Viper. In the end, the V10 supercar won out!

Track time in the Viper was unfortunately limited to a few laps, and therefore recollection is scant. I recall a very stylish but snug leather cockpit, and that monstrous V10 rumbling and roaring as I wrestled it around the corners, though I also recall finding it a lot less scary than anticipated, with the 640hp and 813Nm of torque being contained and laid down on the track very well by a superb chassis and the Dynamic Traction control. It was a far cry from its ancestor, the original Dodge Viper, or widowmaker as it was 56

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“Track time in the Viper was unfortunately limited to a few laps, and therefore recollection is scant. I recall a very stylish but snug leather cockpit, and that monstrous V10 rumbling and roaring as I wrestled it around the corners, though I also recall finding it a lot less scary than anticipated, with the 640hp and 813Nm of torque being contained and laid down on the track very well by a superb chassis and the Dynamic Traction control.” affectionately known!

Overall, a thoroughly rewarding day.

I’m not sure, but I’m almost certain I found a few more hairs on my chest when I got home… ✤

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MOTORING NEWS

F e r r a r i 4 8 8 GTB Ha s A r r i v e d !

Ferrari’s exciting mid-rear-engined V8 berlinetta, the 488 GTB, has arrived in the UAE and can now be viewed at the Al Tayer Motors showroom in Dubai.

The new Ferrari 488 GTB not only delivers unparalleled performance but extreme power, exploitable and controllable to an unprecedented level.

The 488 in the car’s moniker indicates the

engine’s unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta, a reference to Ferrari’s heritage.

An exceptional engine and sophisticated aerodynamics combined with refined vehicle dynamic controls radically improve the already razor-sharp responsiveness of Ferrari’s road cars to near-track level.

The 488 GTB is priced at AED 955,000 -

before customisation. Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with the Ferrari 488 GTB. Available across the entire Ferrari range, the programme covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life.

The Very Best of Lexus Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributor of Lexus in the UAE, has launched an attractive campaign on its most popular 2015 vehicles. Running until September 30, “The Very Best of Lexus” campaign offers customers attractive monthly rates on Lexus models. With monthly payments including 0% interest for two years/40,000km, the campaign includes the Lexus IS 350 F Sport Platinum at AED1900, ES 350 Titanium at AED2300, GX 460 Platinum at AED2500 and LX 570 Sport Titanium at AED3900 – all being full option models.

“The cars included in this campaign are all full option models featuring the highest specifications in their respective categories, offering our customers the opportunity to experience Lexus’ luxury, craftsmanship, design and technological quality at competitive prices.” says Saud Abbasi, Managing Director of Lexus at Al-Futtaim Motors.

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MOTORING NEWS

Record Breaking P e r f o r ma n c e f o r I n f i n i t i Infiniti in the Middle East has continued to build on its Q1 success, registering an impressive first half performance for 2015. As one of the fastest growing premium automotive brands in the region, Infiniti delivered 4,200 vehicles to customers at a growth rate of 24.6% - which is four times the pace of the premium automotive market.

“Our numbers are testament to the premium motoring experience that our vehicles continue to deliver to customers across the Middle East,” said Juergen Schmitz, Managing Director, Infiniti Middle East.

Numbers for the month of June were of particular note as Infiniti delivered 825 vehicles to customers at a comparative growth rate to the previous year of 63% - making it the best June in the history of Infiniti in the Middle East.

J a g u a r F - Pa c e T e s t e d in Dubai Jaguar’s all-new performance crossover – the first SUV in the marque’s history – recently completed extensive testing in some of the most inhospitable environments on earth, which included a stint in the searing summer heat of the Dubai desert. In Dubai, ambient temperatures can exceed 50°C in the shade. When vehicles are left out in direct sunlight, cabin temperatures can soar to 70°C – exactly what’s needed to ensure that everything from climate control systems to infotainment touchscreens function perfectly in extremes of heat and humidity.

This part of the test cycle is also designed to place the cooling systems under very high load through a combination of high ambient temperatures and low airflow. To the other extreme, the F-Pace was also tested in Arjaplog, Northern Sweden, where winter temperatures can drop to -40°C! fact magazine

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PLUGGED-IN

The GoPro HERO4 Session The latest version of the quintessential action capture camera is the smallest and lightest ever offered by GoPro to date.

Offering many of the same features as the bestselling HERO4 Black and Silver cameras, the Session is 50% smaller and 40% lighter than its predecessors, making it even more portable and convenient to use when taking part in your sports activity of choice.

The HERO4 Session captures GoPro-quality 1080p60, 720p100 and 1440p30 video along with eight megapixel photos in Single, Burst and Time Lapse modes, in addition to SuperView, Protune and Auto Low Light recording modes.

The difference with the HERO4 Session is the very minimal one-button design that both simplifies operation and reduces size. A short press of the shutter button quickly powers the camera on and video recording begins automatically. A long press of the shutter button powers the camera on and triggers Time Lapse photo capture.

Then, when you’re done with your session, press the shutter button again to save video or photo content and 60

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power the camera off. An expanded set of controls and settings can be accessed when using the GoPro App or Smart Remote.

The HERO4 Session is built to GoPro’s famous rugged standards and is waterproof to 33ft (10m) without the need for a separate waterproof housing.

It features a sleek frame mounting system that is compatible with GoPro’s expansive array of mounts.

What’s more, an innovative dual microphone system dynamically switches sound recording between microphones to reduce wind noise during activities, and audio performance during water-based activities has been dramatically improved thanks to a waterproof design that eliminates the need for a separate water housing, which can often muffle sounds. ✤ VERDICT: Smaller, tougher, and simpler to use. Just superb!

SOCIETY

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...

Beats 1 Radio The new worldwide radio streaming app from Apple Music has now been launched. Part of the Apple Music service, you’ll have to have an account to play it, which will cost you $4.99 a month (single membership). The disadvantage right now is that the Beats 1 app is only available to iOS, OSX and Windows users, and won’t be available on Android until later in the year. The good news is that they’ve brought in some heavy talent to run the show, namely Zane Lowe of former BBC Radio 1 fame, Julie Adenuga and urban DJ Ebro.

The bad news is that the station is already getting complaints of being repetitive, and overly heavy on urban music above all else. We’re going to keep an eye on this one, but we’re not excited yet.

Periscope The new video streaming app from Twitter is rapidly gaining in popularity since it was launched in a direct challenge to Meerkat in March of this year.

It’s extremely simple to use. You just hit the camera icon, and you start streaming. People can follow you, and see if you’re live. You can see which of your followed accounts is live and tune in, and you can share what you’re watching on Twitter as well. And it now saves the video online for you as well, although in very basic form at the moment. For example, you can’t skip forward or backward in the video, you just have to watch it through. Overall though, a really cool app!

Music Maker Jam Available for Windows, iOS and Android, it does exactly what it says on the tin – you can make your own music with this very easy to use app that has quite a lot of creative power. It is free to download, and with it comes three musical ‘styles’, which are kind of like templates for genres of music. If you want additional styles, you’ll have to pay for them as DLC, which is where these guys will be making their money! You can mix and arrange loops, and there are thousands of samples to choose from. The latest edition also records sound, so you can do your own vocals and add them. Professional musicians and producers might not be impressed, but dedicated amateurs will love it.

#Abu #dhabi #summer #season #2015 Ahead of live shows and exciting performances, the various acts that visited Abu Dhabi went along to meet local individuals. Mythbusters’ Adam Savage checked out the labs at Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, whilst the Sesame Street gang took a trip to Al Ain Zoo, and Barney cheered up little ones on a visit to Sheikh Khalifa Medical Centre. fact magazine

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Also AvAilAble in ...

Bahrain & Qatar

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An Artistic Celebration ofRoll Arabic Culture Camera

NOVEMBER 2014. VOL 8 ISSUE 03 . BD 1 | SR10

SEPTEMBER 2014. VOL 4 ISSUE 5. QR10 | SR10

for Film Festival Fever

front.indd 1

Have a Haunted Halloween

8/31/14 11:13 AM

OctOber 2014. VOL 1 ISSUe 5. AeD 10 front_filmfestival.indd 1

@FACTAbuDhabi | @FACTBahrain | @FACT_Qatar 62 1.

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9/29/14 4:25 PM

Autumn Tr e n d

2015

Report

The Fall fashion season is almost here and the style stakes are pretty high.

For both men and women there’s lots of colour, prints, textures and major trend revivals. Check out some of the hottest AW15 looks set to turn heads and make your wardrobe matter...

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FASHION focus 1

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1 On the runway: 1.Valentino 2.Alberta Ferreti 3.Hermant Nandita 4.Chloe 5.Lanvin 6.Burberry Prorsum

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7 On the runway: 1.Christian Dior 2.Salvatore Ferragamo 3.Alberta Ferreti 4.Hermes 5.Thomas Tait 6.Fendi 7.Zac Posen

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6 8 5 5

6 7 On the runway: 1.Chloe 2,8.Tommy Hilfilger 3,7.Gucci 4.Roksanda 5.Prada 6.Max Mara

Boho Beauty

Code Red

Geek Chic

We love a good 70s comeback and you’ll be pleased to know that the bohemian vibe is very much alive for the AW15 fashion season.

There’s a folksy touch with patchwork, print and texture overload on scarves, shawls, ponchos, and all sorts of amazing knits.

Whether you’re into comfy and casual or hipster quirky, the boho look can be achieved with everything from a flowing prairie dress, to cool corduroy dungarees, and chic suede outerwear or shoes.

Call it crimson, cherry, ruby, rosy or scarlet, there’s no doubt that the one-colour trend this season is dominated by bold and bright shades of red. At FW15 fashion weeks we saw head-to-toe ensembles in the form of trouser suits, skirt and top pieces, long dresses and even killer-hot red boots. Red is perfect for cutting a confident figure for the Autumn season, and we love that you can spice up the look with black accessories, chunky jewellery and trendy hairstyles.

From glamorous bookworms to ladies who lunch, this is a look that will let every woman express her style. There’s a little of Margot Tenenbaum, a little of the varsity girl, the afternoon tea type and the office crush – with this trend, the kookier you get, the better.

Tweed skirt suits, pleated cinched waist dresses, timeless coats, demure polo necks, and elegant handbags, as well as detailed elbow patches and outfits rocking team colours, all classify you for the geek chic trend.

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FASHION focus 1

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1 On the runway: 1.Chanel 2,6.Henry Rolland 3,5.Miu Miu 4.Bottega Veneta 5.Lanvin On the runway: 1,3.Alexander McQueen 2.Alberta Ferreti 4.Giles 5.Rodarte 6.Lanvin

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6 On the runway: 1.Christopher Kane 2.Versace 3.Jonathan Saunders 4.Valentino 5.Emilio Pucci 6.Emanuel Ungaro 7.Loewe

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Gothic Romance

Check it Out

Print Play

Victorian noir saw a mournful moody calling for a number of fashion collection themes for AW15.

The use of frills, lace, ruffle necklines, and deep berry lips helped numerous designers to showcase stunning, costume-worthy silhouettes.

It’s all about vamped-up glamorous drama when it comes to nailing this trend. Sheer fabrics and intricate embellishments are perfect for getting that dark and decadent 19th century vibe. Add a beehive-style up do, or slicked-back hair to bring out your inner goth goddess.

This is by far a fashion favourite when it comes to seasonal style. Now, the checked trend has been given an AW15 update. At fashion week we saw fluffy knits with distorted and stretched checked ponchos, the idea here was BIG checks in contrasting colours. Then there’s the quilted 3D forms which do their best to jump off the clothes and add dimension to your everyday look. Find yourself a sweet and sour colour combo with chunky sweaters, pretty skirts and cool coats.

Hands down, one of the most vivid trends of the AW15 fashion season; this trend is splashed with graphic-art inspired swirls, shapes, monochromatic checkerboard patterns, and optical illusions that will have you in a style daze. If you really want to rock out these bold prints, go top-to-toe with an ankle-length dress, a midi coat or a skirt-suit piece. Zig-zags, cubes, geometry and even retro colour blocking, will bring your Op-Pop style to life. fact magazine

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FASHION focus 1

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1 On the runway: 1.Roberto Cavalli 2.Balenciaga 3.Bottega Veneta 4.Gives & Hawkes 5.Saint-Laurent 6.Topman

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On the runway: 1.Louis Vuitton 2,3.Moschino 4.Vivienne Westwood 5.Givenchy 6.Comme des Garçons

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6 7 5 5

6 7 On the runway: 1.Kenzo 2,6.Saint Laurent 3.Dries Van Outen 4.Roksanda 5.Vivienne Westwood 7.Umit Benan Hero

Blackout

Head to Toe

Stripe Story

A colour that never really leaves the runway, and needs no introduction, black is making big fashion waves for the season ahead. The lack of colour in many designer collections for AW15 will bring delight to many fashion folk who love their wardrobe to be more on the dark side. Serious, moody, businesslike, with a whole host of fabrics, like wool, leather, mohair, shearling and more, taking a dark direction has never been so fun. There were monochromatic clothes, like black tie blazers and oversized coats being paired with crisp white shirt.

The statement here is that if you’re going to go with a print – go all the way! From funky florals to Aztec patterns and even pop culture-influenced pieces, the full look isn’t one to shy away from this AW15 season.

This style works best as a suit, with sharp tailored lines adding to the drama of a topto-bottom print. In some cases, accessories emblazoned with the same print also add a little zest to the look. With this one it’s go big or go home!

A perennial style that held its own on the AW15 fashion runways – the stripe was blown up, coloured in different hues, made to stand out in metallic, or on cosy knitwear, making any clothing items streaked with this style a bonafide fashion staple for the upcoming season. Coats, jackets, sweaters, chunky jumpers, pinstripe suits, however you want to get your stripe on, there are plenty of ways you can do it.

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FASHION focus 1

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1 On the runway: 1.Burberry Prorsum 2.Marc Jacobs 3.Calvin Klein 4,5.Saint Laurent 6.Moschino On the runway: 1.Balenciaga 2.Viktor & Rolf 3.No.21 4.Lemaire 5.Missoni 6.Issey Miyake

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On the runway: 1.Boris Bidjan Saberi 2.Sibling 3.Jonathan Saunders 4.Valentino 5.Emilio Pucci 6.Pyer Moss

Static Sound

Animal Instinct

Colour Pop

Think broken television and white noise – this was one texture trend on the AW15 runways that men everywhere should be rocking out in.

Style wise, go for grey pieces or bright colours and layers. Cool jackets, casual suits and all sorts of knitwear will have this grainy texture on point for an eye-jarring yet playful everyday look. Personally, we love the static pattern in bold clasing colours, worn as outerwear.

Leopard, zebra, cheetah, whatever your print of preference, bring out the beast in your wardrobe with your choice of AW15 fashion.

Statement overcoats are a strong look, along with a nappy boulce, a fuzzy mohair, or oversized blazer – anything splashed with animal print will add a taste of street to a tailored silhouette, leaving you looking fashion forward in fall.

Bright shades are not completely off limits, but it’s all about how you incorporate them that matters. Put on a red ombre jacket with a black ensemble, or go 1950s western with dashes of yellow and orange. Accessories are one way to play up the colour pop style, but, also, embellishments, neutral and warm shades, and understated patterns can help to break up the different hues to make sure your look isn’t too overpowering.

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STYLE

T H E C L AS H River Island

Accessorize New Look

Aldo TopShop River Island

Think ultra-luxe, jewel-hued, and bursting with bold and brash prints, cuts and colours. These are the gorgeous designs that look like they could have been put together from cool, quirky and precious interiors. Try futuristic Styrofoam panels, modern Parisian patterns and any crafty prints. This is certainly a fresh spin on the anything-goes attitude to fashion.

Call it spring River Island

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Accessorize

STYLE

Ch e c k m a t e Bershka

Next River Island

Bold, masculine and eclectic, checked patterns were all over the show at the AW15 fashion weeks. From quilting to plaid, tweed and wool, on shirts, hats, scarves and jackets, this is one of the biggest trends to look out for in fall. Perfect for adding a pop of texture and colour to your style.

Debenhams

Marks & Spencer

Debenhams

Call it spring

Bershka

Marks & Spencer

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Get your daily dose of FACt online now

Roll Camera for Film Festival Fever

Have a Haunted Halloween

OctOber 2014. VOL 1 ISSUe 5. AeD 10 front_filmfestival.indd 1

9/29/14 4:25 PM

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H & M S p ort Vivid Functionality

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FASHION FOCUS

Fashion steps into Autumn this month and t h e r e ’s n o b e t t e r t i m e t h a n n o w t o u p y o u r f i t n e s s s t y l e. H & M ’s n e w s p o r t r a n g e h a s all you runners, gym bodies, and active minds covered….

New technical fabrics with a cotton feel bring both performance and comfort, while vivid prints that look as good on the street as in the gym.

Oversized t-shirts worn with sports leggings is the perfect versatile outfit for a personalised training programme, with the full H&M Sport autumn collection available in stores now, as well as online at hm.com.

WOMEN Loose and body-fit tanks in pops of pink or blurred black and white graphic print; fitness tights in bold zig-zag stripes or in all-over print with shape-defining waist and batik print running tights splashed in reflective patches, all come in quick dry function fabric as the seasons change. Bodymind bra tops and tights come in comforting melange fabrics with soft colour blocking, while the warming layers for outdoor activities are topped by a hybrid hoodie with a padded front and melange sleeves.

Petra Smeds, H&M Sport women’s designer, says: “Autumn at H&M Sport is about fresh motivation and a return to the city streets after the summer break. I 72

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love how the training look of oversized T worn with tights is both functional and fashionable too.”

MEN Training gets new attitude with quick dry t-shirts and performance tights in black, grey and blue melanges or nature-inspired all-over prints. Longsleeved training tops are quick-drying and breathable, while new technical training shorts have a cotton-like feel for comfort. Seamless and featherlight running t-shirts, a zip-up jacket and a gilet, all equipped with technical layers for when the weather worsens.

The influence for outdoor activities is both urban and futuristic, with skin-tight baselayers that has panels like an action hero, along with looser cargo pants with multiple pockets. Hooded shell jackets and beanies complete the look in black and grey. Petter Klusell, H&M Sport men’s designer, says: “There’s urban energy at H&M Sport this autumn, with pieces to help make a serious commitment to a training regime.

Functionality and comfort are everything, along with great style.” ✤ GO: Shop H&M at Villagio Mall, Landmark Mall, and Gulf Mall.

FASHION FOCUS

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Fashion Focus

SHOP THE BRAND Here ARE JUST SOME OF THE GREAT PRODUCTS FROM The h&m sport COLLECTION. YOU CAN SHOP THE BRAND AT ANY h&m STORE IN QATAR.

for her

for Him

01

02

01

02

03

04

03

04

05

06

05

06

08 01. PINK T-BACK TOP 02. T-BACK BIKINI TOP 03. TENNIS SHORTS 04. WATER-REPELLENT RUNNING JACKET 05. SPORTS GLOVES 06. ATHELETIC KIT 07.BLACK/CREAM WRAP OVER COAT 08. Pack of coloured ankle socks

07

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08 01. GREY T-SHIRT 02. RED RUNNING SHORTS 03. BAG PACK 04. WARM-UP T-SHIRT 05. GREY SHORTS 06. WATERPROOF SHELL JACKET 07. ankle SOCKS 08. MICROFIBER TOWEL & bag

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Ohlala Arabia Bringing style across The Middle East

ARABIA

‫إشـــراقة‬ ‫الصيف العربي‬ www.ohlala-magazine.com

OHLALA!

2

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JULY & AUGUST 2015 | ISSUE 06

Follow us www.issuu.com/ohlalaarabia fact magazine

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BEAUTY MASHUP

GUE RLAIN

Pamper yourself with the Bloom Rose collection by Guerlain.

The collection includes Kiss Kiss Rose Lip with colourful lipstick shades, tinted balms enriched in rose essential oil, combining colour and lip care in one. The Blushes bring out a natural glow, and shimmering eye-shadows that cheerfully prolong that summer feel. There’s no doubt about it, it’s autumn and we’re feeling good with Gueralin’s new collection!

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beauty BUZZ

Beauty

C h e c k l i st Make Up For Ever Artist Plexi – Gloss

Make Up For Ever pushes back the limits of shine as well as colour with Artist Plexi-Gloss, a new intense and nonrunning lip lacquer range with targeted and sophisticated shades. Its innovative non-sticky formula and exclusive perfect-dose applicator give lips shocking shine, excessive colour and stay-on power. Artist Plexi-Gloss is available in 35 intense shades for a colorful smile on every occasion. The shades range from the softest to the most show-stopping; including nudes, corals, pink and lots more.

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…

Kérastase Densifique Sérum Jeunesse

Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation

Wake Me Up is Rimmel’s first liquid foundation that instantly re-awakens skin with a healthy, radiant looking glow whilst also minimising signs of premature skin ageing.

No matter how late you got home last night, this antifatigue foundation immediately eliminates visible signs of tiredness, making skin look rejuvenated. Wake Me Up Foundation has an SPF 15 to help protect it from the sun’s damaging rays.

IsaDora summer 2015 - beach Club collection

IsaDora, launched its summer make-up 2015 collection, inspired by a beach club.

The Eye Color Bar Surf and Sun is a musthave with six colorful shades; both matte and pearl. Go for the Perfect Moisture Lipstick, it is richly pigmented and long lasting leaving your lips smooth with a creamy– perfect for sun-kissed lips! IsaDora has also created a Bronzing Powder for a natural sun-kissed look, a newly designed Bronzing Powder Brush ideal for bronzer application and the Volume Lash Styler mascara.

Take care of your scalp, just the way you take care of your hair with Kérastase’s new serum. A youth activator designed to fight both hair thinning and greying, completing the in-salon Densifique routine.

Apply the product to the scalp on wet hair, before styling it. The fiber regains its initial youthfulness and glows with supple softness and dazzling volume. All of you suffering with hair thinning, you need to get this product today for a more dense and sensorial texture of woody fragrance.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Nudes Lip Gel

Laura Mercier

Cut here

Contouring Palette

Laura Mercier’s exclusive contouring palette brings Laura’s artistry techniques to life. Laura has carefully chosen these neutral shades in a darker range that help sculpt the face. The palette is designed to define and highlight your features with five unique crèmes, including three neutral brown matte crèmes for shading and two crème highlighters. The extraordinary cream formula is more blendable than typical contouring powders, allowing for a natural, flawless, fool-proof application every time.

It’s not all about dark shades this season; undress your lips with some flattering nudes for the perfectly polished pout!

With the right balance of color and no color, Marc Jacobs Beauty’s New Nudes Sheer Lip Gel works like a charm on all skin tones. Its innovative gel formula glides effortlessly over lips, laying down subtle shades and a sleek shine finish with a delicate vanilla scent. Choose from a curated collection of moisturizing and nourishing neutral lipsticks in seven subtle shades.

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SEPTEMBER 2015 VOL 2. ISSUE 04 AED 10

For the culture-savvy in abu dhabi

September edition available now on issuu.com/factmagazine 78

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Foodie Finesse at

The Foundry “I would say to be at the top, one needs to excel in presentation as well as taste.�

Chef Manish Law fact magazine

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CHEF’S TABLE

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Being massive steak lovers in the FACT office, this month’s chef ’s table was an exciting one from the get go. We made our way to The Foundry at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi with empty bellies and wide smiles, knowing that the culinary experience we were about to encounter was going to be out of this world!

The Foundry has quickly become one of the capital’s best steak and grill restaurants, in fact, it was awarded the title of Best Steakhouse in Abu Dhabi for 2015 at the first annual FACT Dining Awards, back in April. And behind this award-winning restaurant, is an award-winning chef.

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With over 20 years of experience gathered through working in the hospitality industry across India, Egypt, UAE, Singapore and Malaysia, Executive Chef, Manish Law, knows more than a thing or two about great cooking. “I was quick to understand that the only way to gain and enrich my culinary knowledge and skill would be through experience of working in different hotels, restaurants, establishments and countries,” he says. “If I look back, my movements across a lot of countries really helped enrich my knowledge, art and skill.”

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scallops carpaccio with mango caviar, lemon olive oil and sakura cress. This was the perfectly light and delicious introduction to the main event. For starters we had pan seared foie gras, celeriac texture, green apple jelly, in port wine reduction. It was rich, tasty and each of the flavours stood out separately, as well as complementing together, well.

Next up was the butternut squash soup with aged goat cheese, 24-carat gold leaf and white truffle oil (yes, it looked and tasted just as spectacular as it sounds). With a smooth, creamy texture and a richness in taste added by the aged goat cheese, this dish took us back to childhood, reminding

CHEF’S TABLE

us of having hot homemade soups on cold days. Of course, this was all of that but with a creative, modern twist – we loved it!

At this point, it’s very clear that Chef Manish has a natural flair and diverse technique and understanding of quality cooking. So, what’s his favourite cuisine to prepare?

“I think in this global world that we are living in, nothing has remained within the borders,” he says. “As chefs, we like to experiment with flavours, ingredients and cooking styles and hence I cannot pinpoint any particular cuisine that I cook,” Chef Manish explains. “I would admit, though, that you will see a lot of “farm to fork” approach in my menus and I like things to be simple, creative and not overly done.”

Right, onto the star of the show, the mains; tastings of Blackmore wagyu 9+ tenderloin and 21-day grass-fed dry aged Johnstone striploin. With a side of gratin potatoes, grilled Dutch asparagus, ovenbaked Portobello mushroom and signature

steak sauce – WOW. It takes a lot to have us in awe, especially when it comes to food.

This had us in all sorts of amazement from the second it came out until the second we polished off the plate. The Blackmore wagyu literally melts in the mouth; the Portobello mushroom was incredible, and the gratin potatoes were packed with cheesy goodness.

We loved the freshness of the ingredients we tasted and Chef Manish filled us in about the menu items. He says: “The menu at the Foundry is “evolving”, which means that we work with meat partners and source our signature collection of chilled meats from the finest farms, private butchers, and dairy

Menu Smoked Bay Scallops Pan Seared Foi Gras Butternut Squash Soup Blackmore Wagyu 9+ Picasso’s Creation

and live stock associations across Europe, USA, Australia, South Africa and Japan, who are obsessed, like us, with delivering supreme and exceptional quality.

“Only the best meats grace the tables of the guest, cooked to their required perfection,” he adds. “We showcase a good range of dry aged wagyu, certified American beef, USDA prime and our highlight, the full blood Blackmore wagyu MB9+.”

Before moving onto dessert, we want to know more about what, in Chef Manish’s opinion, sets The Foundry apart from other steakhouses in Abu Dhabi. He says: “Right through the conceptualisation stage, I endeavoured to make each and every element of my menu a unique talking point and signature highlight that a guest could easily differentiate when comparing to other steakhouses.

“When you dine at The Foundry, you will experience an individual composite freshly baked bread plate along with the regions first Butter Trolley. Yes! ➻ fact magazine

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CHEF’S TABLE

Six varieties of home churned French butter served through an indigenously designed trolley, this first impression really gets the guest talking,” he adds.

“The other highlights are the Table side Gastronomy wherein the waitron displays his culinary skills right in front of the guest, giving food a theatre effect. Then there’s our unique presentation style of Claude Dozorme Lagiole steak knives and embedding regular guests’ names onto the knife’s blade, to use whenever they come to dine with us, and not to forget our high attention to detail, all of these makes us surpass our competition,” Chef Manish tells us.

Like the Southern Sun which has a philosophy of Go Beyond, Chef Manish’s food mantra is to keep it simple, fresh and inviting, with a farm to table approach. “When you work with high quality ingredients, you don’t need to do much,” he says.

He’s right, as out comes the dessert, beautifully presented and waiting to be devoured. In front of us stands Picasso’s creation of deconstructed cheesecake, valhrona chocolate fondant and vanilla bean ice cream.

This was interesting, with the cheese part, the crumble and the fruit topping all separate. You mix it all however you desire and voila! The fondant was, simply, epic. What a way to end an unforgettable meal? Just divine.

Chef Manish has come a very long way since his formal culinary journey began as a chef trainee at The Oberoi School of Hotel Management in Jaipur, India.

He is passionate about food, has a highly innovative yet simple approach to cooking, and a clear vision to provide the best in dining to guests visiting The Foundry. As a foodie looking for a quality culinary experience, there’s nothing more you could ask for at this exquisite venue. ✤ GO: Visit The Foundry at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi. Open for breakfast from 6am to 10.30am (11am on Fri and Sat), lunch from 12noon to 3pm, and dinner from 7pm to 11pm. Call (0) 2 818 4888 for reservations and more information.

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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

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An italian Inspiration Italian food served as it should be – simple dishes with only the finest ingredients and prepared to perfection. FACT explores the menu at Mezzaluna in Emirates Palace‌

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VENUE REVIEW

“In fact, almost all of the ingredients come from Italy, and, if not, from the rest of Europe, and only the finest are sourced. And trust us, this shows in the dishes, which are expertly prepared to highlight the excellent flavours...”

M

ezzaluna has been around for a while, being one of the Emirates Palace Hotel’s original restaurants when it opened back in 2005.

With hot new venues opening up in Abu Dhabi all the time, it can be easy to forget the old classics, but you would be ill advised to forget Mezzaluna.

This is because, being in Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious hotel, Mezzaluna still holds itself to the absolute highest standards, and this shows in every detail of the menu. For example, the olive oil comes from a small farm in Italy renowned for its quality, and as such they are only allocated a small quantity of bottles per order. In fact, almost all of the ingredients come from Italy, and, if not, from the rest of Europe, and only the finest are sourced.

And trust us, this shows in the dishes, which are expertly prepared to highlight the excellent flavours of the ingredients, rather than smother them with sauce or spices.

Take our first course for example, the Antipasto Misto. This is a collection of nine small ‘tasting’ dishes served on a platter, and is a superb starter for two (or even three) people who like to try a variety of flavours.

It comprises Vitello Tonnato, which is sliced veal cold cuts in a lovely creamy sauce, delicious Italian Burrata Cheese, Grilled Octopus with a nice light dressing

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VENUE REVIEW

that doesn’t overpower the octopus, Steamed Mussels, Alici (anchovies) and Capsicum, a superb combination of salty and sweet, Bresaola di Grosio, Cured Olives, Sicilian Tuna Tartare, and Prime Beef Carpaccio. As you might guess, the platter was entirely empty by the time it was removed by the waiter!

Next came another great dish if you like to taste a variety of things. It was a delicious trio of pastas – cheese ravioli, mushroom risotto, and an amazing

paccheri pasta with lobster, langoustine and asparagus.

Next came an excellent home made pizza Capricciosa, with a delicious Italian-style thin and crispy base prepared in the pizza kitchen right before your eyes by the expert doughspinning chef.

And to round things off nicely, we had the decadent Mezzaluna Chocolate Fondant, with vanilla ice cream and pistachio sauce, and the Classic Tiramisu,

which was one of the finest examples we’d ever tasted.

Mezzaluna’s disadvantage is its location.

Being in the Emirates Palace, there are high expectations, and if the experience isn’t excellent, you’re disappointed. Fortunately, Mezzaluna doesn’t disappoint. ✤ GO: Visit Mezzaluna at Emirates Palace. Open Mon to Sun from 12.30pm to 3pm for lunch and 7pm to 11pm for dinner. Call (0)2 690 7999 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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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.

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

Authentically Japanese Everybody loves Sushi and Teppenyaki, but that isn’t all that Japanese cuisine has to offer. If you want to find a truly traditional Japanese experience, look no further than Inakaya‌

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Foodie corner

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Foodie corner

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nakaya is the famous Japanese restaurant concept that recently opened its doors in the Venetian Village within The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Tucked away as it is, you’d never know it was there unless you were told. So, consider yourself told and get down there to check it out.

The original Inakaya restaurant opened in Tokyo’s Roppongi district in the 1970s, and became a huge hit locally. However, it wasn’t until it opened its doors in New York’s Manhattan area that it became an international success. It has since welcomed former US presidents and many celebrities through its doors.

Inakaya is a Robatayaki-style restaurant, which is essentially a Japanese grill. Almost everything served is cooked by highly trained chefs over a fire pit, with no small amount of ritual and ceremony. For this reason, in order to get the full experience, we’d advise that you choose one of the seats facing the grill, as you get to watch the chefs do their thing, and even serve the food directly to you over the counter on platters attached to long wooden sticks.

Our experience kicked off with a round of starters, which included edamame beans in a tasty soy and ginger dressing. Then there was some Ei Hire, which is strips of dried stingray fin, and Tatami Iwashi, which is thin wafers of dried baby sardines pressed together, both of which were delicious salty treats dipped in mayonnaise.

Then came a well-presented Deluxe Sashimi platter, with a great selection of fresh premium fish. We also had a round of Chazuke Rice, with salmon meat mixed in and topped with salmon roe, to go with our mains.

Next came some chicken skewers in a tasty sauce, along with some skewers of delicious, slightly crispy chicken skins, which is a very traditional Japanese offering for those who don’t mind a dish that’s quite fatty.

The following indulgence was the Kinme-Dai Golden Eye Snapper, a signature dish of the restaurant, which is a premium snapper from Japan, simply cooked whole in sea salt, which allowed the

“Inakaya is a Robatayakistyle restaurant, which is essentially a Japanese grill. Almost everything served is cooked by highly trained chefs over a fire pit, with no small amount of ritual and ceremony.” excellent flavour of the fish to do the work.

Interestingly, it’s creased before being skewered, so that when the skewer is removed, it stands in the way that you see in the images. You might be a bit unsure of how to tackle it, but fear not, a quick request to the staff and it’ll be whisked away and returned deboned in minutes!

We also had the whole grilled lobster, which was also excellent. Cooked simply, the main ingredient was allowed to speak for itself, and was very enjoyable.

All in all, it was an excellent experience, and a great way to learn more, and savour, Japanese cuisine beyond the usual sushi offerings! ✤

GO: Visit Inakaya Japanese Restaurant at the Venetian Village within The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Call (0)2 404 1921 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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city bites

Bistro Night in Giornotte

Teatro’s New Look

The Big Brunch

Indulge in a celebration of classic bistro cuisine every Wednesday at Giornotte, the beautiful Mediterranean restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi. The chef and his team will create a menu encompassing an extensive selection of traditional bistro favourites, complemented by a wellstocked cheese station and a wide range of sumptuous French desserts. The bistro ambience will be enhanced by live accordion music, in an atmospheric setting where guests can dine both indoors, and outdoors on the picturesque terrace. Priced at AED200++ food only, and AED260++ for food and house beverages.

Park Rotana Abu Dhabi has introduced a new offering to its signature restaurant Teatro with the launch of a new menu that brings to the table, the best of eastern and western cuisine. The menu is designed to offer exciting choices for diners, ranging from Thai, Japanese, Indian, Italian and Chinese cuisine. The presentation is unique yet simple and aimed at perfecting the texture, aroma and flavours of the ingredients used in the creation of each dish. Along with the new menu is a new and revamped look for the venue, with a redesigned bar adorned with Japanese elements owing to the restaurant’s eastern influences, and a chic lounge for casual conversation over drinks.

Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center, Abu Dhabi, welcomes crowds of hungry weekend diners to its new Friday brunch; The Bistro’s Big Brunch. In a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, enjoy a sumptuous buffet that includes a selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Guests can indulge in a delicious international buffet, which blends traditional cuisine with contemporary fare. You can choose from a variety of mouthwatering dishes from the seafood bar to start. Diners can revel in an outstanding selection of main dishes on offer, including meat, fish and vegetarian options too. The famous roasted US Prime Rib will be available from the carving station accompanied with all the trimmings. The unlimited buffet with soft beverages is AED135++, and with free-flowing selected house beverages it’s AED250++ per person.

GO: Call (0)2 818 8282 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call (0)2 657 3333 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call (0)2 698 2222 for reservations and more information.

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city bites

Japanese Delights

New Menu at Circo

Brunch & Plunge

Stay cool and enjoy delicious Japanese dishes with picturesque views at Sho Cho Abu Dhabi. Located at the exquisite Souq Qaryat Al Beri, the Japanese restaurant and lounge has your calendar booked throughout the week. Enjoy a selection of delicious Japanese dishes for lunch from Sunday to Thursday. Indulge in salads, appetisers, tempura, sushi, sashimi and an array of main dishes. Every Sunday Sho Cho Abu Dhabi offers an extensive open buffet, including starters, main course and a wide selection of sushi, maki and sashimi and desserts, from 6.30pm onwards. Enjoy light music by DJ Mad Hands, spinning commercial and house music whilst you tuck into a Japanese feast.

Circo Restaurant at InterContinental Abu Dhabi recently revealed it’s brand new menu. Change has come to Circo in the form of tasty new dishes inspired by the flavours of summertime. Creamy burrata finds itself among wild berries, in a dish reminiscent of strawberries and cream.

The Risttoalle melanzane, inspired by the flavours of a classic eggplant parmigiana will take you back to summer in Italy. And let’s not forget the classics; Ossobucoalla Milanese with a rich saffron risotto and the Costoletta di Vitello, both are back for a truly Italian experience!

Sofra bld at Shangri-La Qaryat Al-Beri has a mouthwatering brunch on offer. The authentic and exciting dining experience serves dishes from across the Middle East, India and Asia. Chinese noodles anyone? Live barbeque or Egyptian fatah?

Indian, Asian, Japanese, Iranian, Emirati and even Chinese – explore a wide variety of cuisines at leisure. Then, head to the souq or spend the day on the beach or by the pool – the perfect Friday afternoon. On Saturday, head to the Sofra bld market for lunch, with a wide choice for the entire family and a relaxed way to end the week, this low-key day out, which, again, can be spent at the pool and beach afterwards, is a blissful time before the week starts again. And there’s a bundle of fun for the kids too, with a live pastry station, enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.

GO: Call (0)2 558 1119 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call (0)2 666 6888 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call (0)2 509 8888 for reservations and more information.

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CALISTHENICS

12-13 November 2015 Kingdom of Bahrain

WORLD CUP 2015

8 Countries, 1 Team Each Teams of 4

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Tranquility at

CHI, The Spa When you spend most of your waking day hunched over a computer, there’s no doubt that muscles become tense, joints tighten up and your body is, overall, tired and aching. This month, Shabana Adam discovers one of the best spa treatments to remedy from head-to-toe with complete relaxation‌

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Spa review

Y

ou know that feeling, when hours spent sitting at the desk finally catch up with you? For me, it’s the lower back and shoulder area that get hit first. And though a good massage would be the perfect solution to the problem, this month, I wanted more than that. I wanted a GREAT massage; something with added technique, something a little longer than usual (call me greedy, but an hour is never enough!), and something where every part of the body would benefit from the treatment. Enter CHI, The Spa at ShangriLa Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri. It was the CHI Hot Stones Signature Massage that was going to be my cure.

CHI, The Spa draws inspiration from the origins of the Shangri-La legend, a place of personal peace, enchantment and wellbeing. You can see this through the warm hues of the dĂŠcor, the soft lighting, 96

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CHI, The Spa draws inspiration from the origins of the Shangri-La legend, a place of personal peace, enchantment and wellbeing. and the serene music that plays during the treatment. Here, massages and treatments are based on authentic natural healing methods found in traditional wellbeing practices shared by many Asian cultures.

After a warm welcome with ginger tea and a cold towel, I filled in the usual consultation form and was ushered to a private treatment room by my therapist Irene. She was friendly and professional, and after I changed into what was, by far,

Spa review

Here, massages and treatments are based on authentic natural healing methods found in traditional wellbeing practices shared by many Asian cultures.

the cosiest robe I’ve ever worn in my life, we began with a traditional foot ritual.

Placing my feet into a large gold bowl of warm water, rose petals, and milk, Irene proceeded with a relaxing leg scrub.

During this, Irene explains that the CHI Hot Stones treatment is the best option for busy bodies (ding ding, we have a winner!).

It’s designed to ease muscle tension, bad aches, and arthritis and provide relief for anyone with joint pain. Through the use of an essential oil that contains black pepper and mandarin, the treatment relaxes you to the core, but will also help to reboot your body with a burst of energy.

The private treatment room is large, with it’s own shower, restroom and bath tub. It smells sensational and the massage bed is as comfy as can be. And so it begins.

Irene uses her hands, in particular the thumb and fingertips to work out any kinks in my back. This is also done to the legs and arms, while the stones are heating

up in an incubator-style box on the side.

Once they’re hot to touch, Irene rubs the stones with her hands and transfers the incredible heat onto the area that is being massaged. This slowly builds up until the heated stones are glided over the body in soothing massage strokes. I can’t begin to explain how therapeutic and alleviating this was. It’s almost as though the stones absorbed the pain in my back and shoulders, and carried it away.

The hot stones are strategically placed down the spine, on the neck, under the palms, and when I turned over onto my back, they’re placed on the legs and the stomach. This releases the best of their thermotherapy benefits which also helps to boost your blood circulation.

I loved how comfortable Irene was

with carrying out this treatment. She didn’t rush, she kept to the medium pressure I requested and also asked if I was ok with the heat. Her technique was gentle yet effective, and by the end of the one hour and 55 minutes, I was recharged into a state of bliss.

I would highly recommend this treatment to all those constantly on the go.

Take a moment (or two hours) for some me-time, and take it at CHI, The Spa. You won’t be disappointed. ✤ GO: The CHI Hot Stones Signature Massage is 1 hour 55 minutes, for AED800. Visit CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri. Call (0) 2 509 8888 or go to www. shangri-la.com/abudhabi/shangrila for bookings and more information. fact magazine

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Desmond Hatton General Manager, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

city insider three REASONS DUSIT THANI STANDS OUT from its competitors...

RECOMMEND YOUR FAVOURITE FOODIE SPOTS IN ABU DHABI...

What do you hope to achieve with THE HOTEL in the next year?

One - blending the best of both cultures, the hotel exudes Arabian grandeur imbued with touches of Thai warmth and our colleagues offer unparalleled service with Thai graciousness.

Two - with an opulent lobby boasting the third highest hotel atrium in the world, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is well on its way to achieving the landmark status. Three - the innovative design of the convention centre’s pre-function area with its stunning glass panelled Skydome and being surrounded by state-of-the-art function rooms, makes it the perfect venue to host a memorable event or wedding with up to 1,000 guests.

Having recently moved to Abu Dhabi, I haven’t had the chance to discover the foodie spots. However, I’m quite impressed with the variety of dining options that the city has to offer and have particularly enjoyed dining in Dusit Thani’s signature Thai restaurant, Benjarong, which is one of my favourite cuisines. My international background has inspired me to experience all types of cuisines, from casual to fine dining, authentic to fusion and I look forward to discovering the city’s secrets.

As the property is relatively new, it is exciting to penetrate a competitive market and strengthen awareness for the Dusit Thani brand and property in the region and beyond, by building a strong team and ensuring the hotel provides unparalleled service and Thai graciousness which Dusit Thani is internationally renowned for. I also want to focus on making sure that Abu Dhabi residents are made aware of the hotel’s exceptional hidden gems such as the Dusit Club Lounge located on the 35th floor with stunning city views and the authentic Thai treatments offered at Namm Spa.

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