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Embrace
THE GRANDEUR OF THE FESTIVITIES WITH MAJESTIC MOMENTS Mark the festivities in world-class style and with superlative views of the Burj Khalifa as you partake in magnificent celebrations, intimate get-togethers and grand galas. Make it an extraordinary season with festive dining experiences, New Year’s Eve revelries, takeaway treats and more.
BOOK ON MYFESTIVEDUBAI.COM OR CALL +971 4 888 3444 UByEmaar.com 2
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CONTENTS
08 18 29 FACT FINDS
LISTEN UP
NEW SEASON, NEW EATS
45 50 65
GLOBETROTTER GOES SKIING
HOTEL HOTSPOT
CITY RIDES
85 89 95 CULINARY SPOTLIGHT
FOODIE CORNER
SPA & WELLNESS
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• THE EDITOR
Seasons Change
“
There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” - George Bernard Shaw
W
e can admit it. The good food life has taken us. Especially here in Dubai where quality and variety is plenty – how do you even keep up with all the culinary trends and avoid major FOMO? Easy, let us do the work for you! FACT’s November issue is our annual spotlight on all the best eats for the new season; we’ve got themed nights so you’re not getting bored any night of the week, weekend brunches for special occasions, catch ups with friends or the need to have a long and lingering feast, and all the beautiful outdoor venues for winter, because, let’s be honest, we’re always looking for the next big thing to try - if not, to post on instagram (guilty as charged). Turn to p29 for our New Season, New Eats and begin the epicurean tour of a true connoisseur, Dubai style. Let us know what your favourite dining deals are – tag us in your foodie posts: Twitter - @FACTMagazineME and on Instagram - @factmagazine – we’d love to see and share your recommendations! It's event season and Dubai has some of the year's best happenings coming up over the next couple of months. Formula 1 month and this year's Dubai Design Week returns with more cool inspiration (p10), whilst are definitely talk of the town. Check out our recap of who's performing on p28 Sole DXB is the talk of the town for early December, especially as their music line-up and collection drops sound VERY exciting (p18). Of course, November sees the 2nd annual FACT Dining Awards Dubai 2018 take place at the beautiful Dukes Dubai. We've been blown away by the response to online voting and can't tahnk our readers enough for participating! All the winners will be revealed in our next issue, and for a sneak peek of the event, keep an eye on our instagram! We’re going full-on wanderlust mode this month, with a true winter's destination taking centre stage. Read all about the luxury skiing experience that awaits at Les Grandes Alpes on p45. For anyone planning a once-in-a-lifetime winter getaway, this should be high up on the list. Our local spotlight goes to the ever-popular Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah (p50); a 5-star property that feels like the most serene escape in the UAE. Our love for food will always be number one - for as long as Dubai’s venues create diverse and delicious cuisine - eating out will forever reamin the heart and soul of this place. Hmm, where to for dinner? Or is it a delivery kind of evening? Whatever your choice, have a yummy November!☺
Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com Insta: @shabs_a 4
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FACT Magazine Dubai Edition • NOVEMBER 2018 VOLUME 02, ISSUE 02
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHING DIRECTOR EDWARD SMITH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL LOCAL EDITOR ANGELA BEITZ SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT CONTRIBUTORS DAVID TAPLEY PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID TAPLEY PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION NEIL MAHMOOD AJIT KUMAR SALES COORDINATOR KIA MARIE PLACIDO ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES EDWARD SMITH (edward@ohlala-magazine.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. 361/17/F
Memories create a journey you can always return to.
Indulge yourself in a lavish retreat in the heart of downtown Dubai with up to 20% savings on dining and spa with our special Weekend Getaway offer. Starting from AED 800++. Surrender to a world of serenity at the spa or explore gastronomic excellence of the hotel dining scene that offers an array of options to excite your palate. Savor the tasteful and distinct creations at Cake or relish an extraordinary ambience of Le Cirque – The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC is where memorable and unique experiences are created. For booking call +971 4 372 2222 or visit ritzcarlton.com/difc Š2018 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
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Combining all four editions of FACT in Dubai and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from monthly food shoots, the best local events and all things fun from the FACT team around the Gulf.
FACEBOOK FACT Dubai 9,443 likes Keep up with all things Dubai as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, events and everything we’re getting up to. Send us a message – we love hearing from our readers!
Your one-stop culture fix for life in Dubai | 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 celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Dubai in local supermarkets now!
“
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone."
ISSUU.COM FACT Dubai 68,459 reads of the October issue online 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 more in Dubai.
OUR FAVE FEATURE • NEW SEASON, NEW EATS P29 •
#FACTMAGAZINE #FACTMIDDLEEAST #FOODARTSCULTURETRAVEL #THEONLYWAYISFACT 6
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EXTEND YOUR RELAXATION AT MANDARA SPA Mandara Spa is a sanctuary of utter wellness, serenity and bliss located at The H Dubai Hotel, One Sheikh Zayed Road. Mandara Spa has 10 treatment rooms including two couples’ suites, as well as separate male and female changing facilities, each including a thermal and hydrotherapy steam chamber and sauna, a whirlpool and experiential showers. OPEN DAILY 10 AM TO 10 PM
The H Dubai, One Sheikh Zayed Road fact magazine For more infor mation call +971 4 501 8888 | www.hhoteldubai.com
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FACT FINDS
Lush Lebanese LEBANESE CASUAL CHIC CAFÉ CONCEPT, BEBABEL HAS OFFICIALLY OPENED AT THE DUBAI MALL AND WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH…
BEBABEL HAS BEEN developed as a modern, chic, innovative concept with emphasis on ‘living in the moment’ through shared experiences. Originating from the grandiose of the awardwinning Lebanese brand ‘Babel’, Bebabel is the ‘casual chic’ café version of Babel that offers a delicious Lebanese breakfast menu and an all-day dining menu, within strikingly elegant surroundings inspired by Lebanese culture. Diners can enjoy Bebabel’s welcoming blend of progressive Lebanese cuisine that is globally inspired and prepared with fresh local ingredients, and served in a stylish contemporary setting. The opening of Bebabel was inaugurated by Senior Managemnet of Alshaya and Afkar Holding, with an anticipated ribbon-cutting ceremony, after which guests were welcomed to the spacious and beautiful restaurant to enjoy a lunch of Lebanese cuisine 8
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favourites including salads, talatas, grills and deserts. Lebanese Architect and co founder of Afkar Holding, Claude Abi Saad, is the creative force behind every detail in the Babel and the Bebabel concepts and designs and has been instrumental in seeing them come to life. Bebabel also serves shisha on the terrace which overlooks the iconic fountains and a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa. Bebabel is located on the ground floor of the new Dubai Mall extension and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 10am to 12am. ✤
GO: FOLLOW @BEBABELME ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFO.
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DUBAI DESIGN WEEK 2018 The region’s largest creative festival returns this year from November 12 to 17. The free-to-attend programme will comprise of more than 230 events throughout Dubai Design District (d3) and across the city. TAKING PLACE AT locations across the city, this year’s Dubai Design District programme will be the most comprehensive to date, with more than 120 companies participating and 230 events taking place, encompassing exhibitions, commissioned installations, awards and competitions, talks and workshops, tours and experiences for design enthusiasts and public visitors alike. An accessible meeting point for the global design community, since its inauguration in 2015, Dubai Design Week has become a platform for growing and enabling the region’s design scene, attracting 60,000 visitors to the event at d3 alone throughout the 2017 edition. Dubai Design Week will this year launch its first app, allowing visitors to create personalised schedules on the go based on preferences and interests and to be the first to get notified of must-attend launches and events. d3’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohammad Saeed Al Shehhi, says: “d3 is once again thrilled to be the strategic partner and host of the fourth edition of Dubai Design Week. For 2018, we are proud to add d3’s ‘UAE Design Stories’ exhibition to the programme and highlight several projects under d3’s ‘Design for Good’ initiative which supports and promotes social change within the UAE,” he adds. “It's always important for us to continue to support the growth of the design industry as a whole and it is events like this that celebrate design from across the region which truly cement Dubai, and d3, as a design destination.” The Middle East’s leading design trade fair, Downtown Design 10
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returns from November 13 to 16 with 175+ premium design brands from the region and across the world. The fair will present a new element titled Downtown Editions, a curated showcase dedicated to limited-edition and bespoke design, capsule collections and designer collaborations. An exhibition of life changing inventions designed by graduates from the world’s best design and technology schools, Global Grad Show values innovation that transcends technology and exists independent of wealth; equality without hierarchy amongst universities, regions and designers; universal design open to all types of projects; and impact on the world at large through solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems. Named after the Arabic word for ‘doors’, Abwab is an annually remodeled exhibition dedicated to design from the region. This year, Dubai Design Week will stage the fourth edition of Abwab within five dedicated pavilions designed by Architecture + Other Things, composed of natural materials including fallen twigs and timber coated in recycled newspaper pulp. Exhibitions, pop-ups, installations, competitions, talks, workshops and more – expect it all! ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.DUBAIDESIGNWEEK.AE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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THE LUX CRAWL Lux Crawl is Dubai’s first luxury all encompassing nightlife experience that treats guests to some of Dubai’s hottest venues, transported in style with luxury limousines and VIP service, completed with drinks, games, prizes, party hosts and more. LUX CRAWL FOUNDERS, Stefan Berger and Dan Sterling, noticed through their many years of living in Dubai that the amazing array of venues can be a great opportunity for planning a nightlife experience spanning several locations. “Living in Dubai for over 20 years and having worked extensively in events, Lux Crawl was created out of a vision to enable residents and visitors to experience the ultimate night out in Dubai. Around each corner is a venue symbolising Dubai's opulence and diversity. With the various spots around, it provides an incredible avenue for us to treat guests to a funfilled evening, and offer a truly unique "Dubai- style" experience. We incorporate lavish stretch limousines, VIP treatment, table service, competitions and other fun surprises along the way. Our ultimate goal is to take people on a journey which they will never forget,” they said. Ideal for weekend get-togethers as well as special events, Lux Crawl offers set packages for every occasion, as well as an option to customise the “adventure” for each group’s needs. Currently, Lux Crawl has an extensive and diverse list of partner venues, from which guests are able to create their own tailor-made experiences. The introductory Silver Package includes premium beverages, ranging from specialty cocktails 12
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to house grape and hops, across two exclusive locations, with brunch prizes and luxury limousines ushering guests in style to each destination. Whether it’s a group of friends or someone new to the city, Lux Crawl provides a way in which people can come together and experience the wonders of Dubai’s nightlife scene. Bonita Graham, General Manager of Ting Irie said: "Lux Crawl is a perfect option for those looking for something out of the ordinary to the regular night out. With the group being catered to by their fun hosts and providing a lively atmosphere, it is an absolute pleasure to have their groups come by, we love the concept!" Partner bars include Mahiki, Hotel Cartagena, Penthouse, Atelier M, Lucky Voice, Tribeca, and Nikki Beach all carefully curated to enable guests to select from a diverse variety of Dubai nightlife favourites. Pricing start at just AED299 per person with packages going from silver up to VVIP. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.LUXCRAWL.COM OR CALL (0)58 582 2413 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.
Take the Celebration Home
At Le CafĂŠ, our artisanal pastries, cakes, chocolates and freshly ground coffee beans are the perfect treats to add a touch of luxury at home and to your next celebration. For more information or to place an order, please call +971 (0) 2 690 8050 or email lecafeshop@emiratespalace.ae /EmiratesPalace
@EmiratesPalace
@EmiratesPalace
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SSSSH… SECRET ROOM! Forget about VIP valet or rolling out the red carpet for a grand entrance, arrive at Secret Room in the most talked about way by driving your supercar straight into the middle of the new nightlife venue, an arrival only for the super-elite. FOR THE FIRST time outside of Moscow, Secret Room has opened at FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai - the only venue opening its doors for you and your luxury cars. Strategically located out of sight and underground at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, you need to pass through a graffiti-filled corridor to reach the hidden gem. Access is only granted via unique finger print identification, which is an essential feature, crucial to the brand and to gain your privileged access. Carefully selected clients will have their fingerprint registered, giving them the ability to instantly access the venue with a simple scan on the days Secret Room operates. With Hip Hop and R&B being the sole foundation of the club, the resident DJ and guest DJ’s will explore all aspects of these genres but will also delve into other soundscapes such as; Trap, Dancehall, Reggaeton, Afro beat, House & EDM. Not just any night club or lounge, Secret Room is the epitome 14
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of partying in true style and luxury. The intimate space boasts 18th century style including a hand painted mural, antique candelabrums and elaborate crown mouldings throughout. In perfect contrast, the carbon rose gold avant-garde bar serves as an unforgettable centrepiece designed by internationally recognised architect Paolo Ferrari. Paired with ultra-modern sofas and transparent tables, the interior design is unlike any other experienced in Dubai. Secret Room will host three weekly parties on Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays. ✤
GO: SECRET ROOM IS OPEN FROM 11PM TO 3AM ON TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY. CALL (0)58 869 8996 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.
S O A K U P T H E S U N A L F R E S CO ST Y L E S TA RT I N G 1 4 S E P T E M B E R
2 for 1
starting from AED423 EVERY FRIDAY | 12:00 - 16:00 P O ST B R U N C H | 1 6 : 0 0 - 1 8 : 0 0 Savour sensational flavours & drinks from Chamas & Cho Gao Marina Walk with fascinating views. Music by DJ Cristiana, Latino band “The Los Hidalgos” & Post brunch playlist by DJ Rob Forrest.
INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI, MARINA BRUNCH FOR RESERVATIONS, CALL 800 423 463 OR 02 6666 888 Price is inclusive of all applicable service charge, local fees and taxes. Terms & conditions apply.
InterContiAD
interconad
www.icad.ae
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GOSSIP GOALS! Founded in 2013 by visionary Emirati entrepreneur Dr. Shayma Fawwaz, the delectable Gossip is a European-American fusion café with distinctive Emirati influences. The boutique restaurant is a place where the sweet life can be shared. Gossip serves edible art – an array of high-end gourmet dishes and decadent desserts that take people on a culinary journey in an elegant yet contemporary setting. Born out of Shayma’s diverse background and love for food, fashion and art, Gossip presents guests with a distinct experience at all of its locations across the UAE - Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. The stylish boutique eatery is frequented by trendsetters and foodies alike who enjoy the highest quality of fine, fresh, natural and organic ingredients that are locally sourced and naturally sweetened. The freshness and quality is so distinctive that several items from the menu are approved by the Dubai Ministry of Health. Every dish at GOSSIP is created with a twist and is customizable; all of the concepts are developed and created in-house, everything in the dish from the bread to the sauces are all Gossip’s own, bringing a real sense of wellbeing to the F&B industry. The restaurant is infamous for the varied selection of sweets and dessert’s which are all developed and baked in-house, from Milk Cakes to Designer Cakes and the Ultimate Dessert. It’s not just the food that is created with innovation in mind at Gossip, all the coffee is specialty and organic and there is even a Bulletproof Coffee and an Iced Coffee Cubed Latte. Not everything at GOSSIP is indulgent and breaks the diet, they also have healthy drinks such as the 16
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Gossip Super Smoothie and Vitamin boost. In addition to the dining, the boutiques are one-of-a-kind retail outlets. This unbeatable combination creates a truly unique overall experience for all those who visit. The premium service and commitment to excellence is apparent in every bite and in every corner of Gossip. Special occasions and events are a brand speciality, the venue offers designer cakes with an extensive selection and buttercreams and even bespoke cakes which are made to order for all occasions to match the need of any consumer. Fashion-forward gift boxes allow for luxury gifting of all sweets, desserts and cakes, which can be collected or delivered within a matter of hours to any location in the UAE. All hampers are customizable depending on the occasion and requirements. Speciality organic coffees, imported from Africa and healthy smoothies are crafted to perfection onsite. ✤
GO: VISIT GOSIP IN BOX PARK OR KHAWANEEJ DUBAI, GALLERIA MALL ABU DHABI AND MATAJER AL JURAINA IN SHARJAH.
Your Yas Island Adventure
Relax, have fun and cherish unique experiences on Yas Island. Laugh, scream or swim to your heart’s content at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, or spend a lazy day at the amazing Yas Beach while enjoying a comfortable stay with daily breakfast buffet at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island. Begin your adventure now. Book our Parks Package with rates starting from AED610* for two adults. *Rate is in UAE dirham and exclusive of all applicable service charges, municipality fees and taxes.
@cpyas
CPYasIsland
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For more information or to make a reservation, visit crowneplaza.com/abudhabi, or email reservations.cpyas@ihg.com or call +971 (0)2 656 3000.
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ALL THE SOUL AT SOLE DXB Sole DXB will return for 2018 with the support of its partners Cadillac, Dubai Design District (d3), Dubai Tourism and Sprite. The highly anticipated three-night, two-day cultural festival, will take place on December 7 ,6 and 8, at d3. SOLE DXB ACTS as a pioneering hybrid between a festival and a direct-to-consumer fashion trade fair, built on the four pillars of: Hip Hop, fashion, art and basketball. This year, Sole DXB focuses on what's next from around the globe. Having spent the past few years pulling on threads from New York, London and Tokyo, 2018 sees Sole setting its sights on youth culture and trends across fashion, art and music in emerging markets. Paying homage to the 30th anniversary of the second Summer of Love, Sole DXB looks to celebrate a new cultural movement championing independent brands, and celebrating the next generation of creators and artists from South Africa, India, Turkey, Nigeria, UAE and more. Raj Malhotra, Co-Founder of Sole DXB said: “We made multiple trips to Cape Town and Johannesburg, connecting with designers, artists, musicians, creators in each city, learning their stories and digging into their culture. “We feel that South Africa is a good representation of what street culture looks like when it’s still organic, in cities with rich and complicated histories,” he continued. “South Africa's recent past has given voice to a new generation of creators, that are forming ideas shaped by race, culture and identity.” This year, Sole DXB welcomes Hip Hop royalty, as well as fresh talent from across the globe. Set to perform for the first time in the UAE, legendary Queensbridge Rapper Nas will headline the 18
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main stage on Saturday. On Friday, adidas originals will present critically acclaimed rapper Giggs. Within the PUMA space, emerging artists Masego and “Lil Bebe” singer, DaniLeigh, will perform on Friday and Saturday night, respectively. Joining Saturday’s line-up is America’s R&B duo Lion Babe, and one of the industry’s first female rappers, Roxanne Shante. Supporting Friday’s main stage this year, will be Northampton artist, Slowthai, bringing a mix of grime, rap, and garage, as well as South Africa’s rising star Sho Madjozi. Over the two-day event, there will be plenty of experiential activations, series exclusives and collection drops from adidas, Dior, Farfetch, PUMA, Reebok Classic and more. This year’s Early Retirement concept store, brings 10 brands and creators to produce an exclusive run of Sole DXB merchandise. Other key elements to the event, include; Sole Ball Above All Classic, Sole DXB’s basketball tournament and the Sneaker Swap, where people will have the opportunity to buy, sell and trade footwear from leading collectors in the region. ✤
GO: WEEKEND PASS IS AED295 AND DAY PASS IS AED195. TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH VIRGIN MEGASTORE TICKETS, THE DUBAI CALENDAR APP, AND WWW.SOLEDXB. COM/TICKETS.
A Superior Brunch Staycation at Abu Dhabi’s Finest Urban Resort Soak up the sun, indulge in our Friday Brunch and stay exquisite in one of our Superior Sea View rooms. Located at the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi with a 200 metre stretch of pristine beach, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Nation Riviera Beach Club at the finest address in the city. Inclusions: • Overnight Stay in a Superior Sea View room • Friday Brunch for Two at the Terrace on the Corniche • Full access to Nation Riviera Beach Club & Pool facilities • Thursday Night Dinner or Saturday New York Breakfast • 20% Off in hotel bar and lounges • Late Check-Out until 6 pm
Live Exquisite this Weekend from AED 1300* for Two. *All prices are in UAE Dirham and are inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees and taxes.
©2018 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, St. Regis and their logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates t. +971 2 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com
Stay exquisite at more than 40 St. Regis hotels and resorts worldwide. fact magazine 19 @stregishotels
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BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS The ultimate pitstop for brisket, Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque, has launched a brand new, mouth-watering breakfast menu at its JBR branch. COMBINING CLASSIC BREKKIE favourites such as egg benedict and omelettes with their quality 18-22 hours natural oak-wood smoked meats, irresistible sauces and sides, the all-new menu boasts a variety of traditional breakfast spreads, healthy and vegetarian options, along with a generous, indulgent plate of sweet servings. Located at The Walk, JBR, diners can drop in from 9am to 3pm and order an assortment of delicious with the menu featuring dishes such as Crushed Avo Toast, an NYC Brisket Benedict which includes the signature melt-in-your-mouth brisket and Romano crusted camembert, a harmonious unison of in-house smoked salmon and herbed cream cheese in the Salmon Omelette, and a spin on sweet and savoury indulgence with Bacon Classic American Pancakes topped with crispy bacon and maple syrup. A selection of fresh breads and croissants will also be on offer for a morning pick-me-up. the branch offers three exclusive breakfast deals to patrons looking for a delectable start to the day. Deal 1 includes any omelette (or) benedict with a choice of any pancake (2pcs) for AED65. Deal 2 includes any omelette (or) 20
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benedict with fresh juice (or) coffee for AED48. Deal 3 includes any pancake (or) croissant (or) waffle with fresh juice (or) coffee for AED44. Born in New York, Mighty Quinn’s brings a new aesthetic of technique with smoked produce, marrying process and quality products to create something transcendent. The joint brings together the best of all great BBQ techniques to create something uniquely its own. The process begins with the best, all-natural meats and poultry, seasoned with perfect spice blends and then smoked with natural oak wood for multiple hours. Steeped in tradition, Mighty Quinn’s offers the region a harmonious mix of tradition, flavour profiling, and an introduction to a rustic, NYC vibe. Pick your meats and watch as everything is hand carved per order. Amazing food, great atmosphere, quick service, convenient locations and ready to please. Mighty Quinn’s. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.MIGHTYQUINNSBBQ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
WHERE MOMENTS OF STYLE ARE AS LIMITLESS AS THE STARS Experience breathtaking views, gastronomic treats, which blends Japanese and other pan-Asian flavors with a Mediterranean flair, innovative beverages, special events and unending live entertainment at Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi.
RESERVATION +971 (2) 498 8888 RESTAURANT.SAADIYAT@STREGIS.COM @buddhabarbeachabudhabi fact magazine
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HALA ORGANIC YOU ARE WHAT you eat, therefore why not concentrate on getting the most delicious, wholesome meals onto your plate as often as possible? Hala Organic specialises in brightening your day with Arabic dishes featuring all the classics with a twist. Using organic ingredients wherever possible and packing in superfoods, their creative approach to cooking ensures falafel, hummus and kibbeh never looked, or tasted, so good! A whole lot of love and care has been given to elevate each recipe, from their Quinoa Lentil Tabbouleh & Beetroot Falafel Poke Bowl to the carotene-rich Glazed-Carrot Hummus, accessing guilt-free meals day or night has never been easier. The use of known favorites such as mixed seeds, oats, chestnuts and sun-dried berries is evident as you read through the mouth-watering menu, and the range of starters, mains and warming soups ensures there is something for everyone. Hala Organic has also collaborated with Essentially Cold Pressed Juices to bring you beverages that maintain their natural fruit sugars, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other vital elements. Cleanse and detoxify your body the right way, sans preservatives! Last but not least, all their packaging has been carefully created with the environment in mind and uses only natural and reclaimed alternatives. Yummy and ethical, sign us up! ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.HALAORGANIC.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
GOURMET SHAWERME HOMEGROWN GOURMET SHAWARMA concept, Shawerme has opened its third restaurant in Dubai, located at the ‘Marina Pearl Tower’, Dubai Marina. The opening follows the success of the first two outlets in Al Murooj Roda & Marsa Al Seef, and will serve a combination of classic and modern shawarma creations. Shawerme is a unique concept focused on elevating the iconic middle eastern street food through the use of the freshest ingredients and set in a modern and social dining environment. The result is premium, gourmet shawerma without any of the gimmicks. The Dubai Marina features an indoor and outdoor seating area, offering customers a dine-in experience from 12pm to 12am daily, with delivery services across Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina, JLT, Dubai Media City and other surrounding areas. Anas Kabour, Co-Founder of Shawerme, said: “We have been overwhelmed with our customer response and are delighted to open our third location. This will enable us to better service our customers’ growing demand and high standards.” ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.SHAWERME.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 22
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FRANCHISE FORWARD Dubai is set to host the 3rd edition of The Global Franchise Market Exhibition – TGFM, the official franchising event in the city, offering a dedicated platform for local and international ‘franchisors’ and ‘franchisees’ to explore new business partnerships and investment opportunities. TAKING PLACE ON December 5 and 6 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, TGFM will bring together leading investors, master franchisees, licensees, entrepreneurs, and leading brands in various sectors and it is expected to attract over 2,000 visitors and participants and witness the participation of over 100 leading brands from 80 countries. The exhibition will feature FIVE pavilions for participating countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Malaysia and Turkey. TGFM will offer a great platform for B2B meetings at the exhibition while also awarding participating brands with the ‘best stand design’ and ‘best stand activity’ prizes to recognise their unique contribution. A number of leading brands from the F&B sector are exhibiting this year at TGFM like Jelly Belly Ice Cream (Gold Sponsor), the region’s first locally made gourmet ice-cream produced in the heart of Dubai in an exclusive state-of-the-art manufacturing facility; in addition to Mary Brown’s Chicken & Taters, Reis & Irvy’s, The Future of Frozen Yogurt, Delifrance, Almayass Lebanese – Armenian Cuisine, Bouza Roll, Fishface, Munch Bakery, Meito Café Lounge & Bubble Tea, Under500 and ChicKing. The exhibition will also witness the participation of Francorp Middle East (Platinum Sponsor and Strategic Partner) among others. As a testament to its growing reputation for generating great value on investment for exhibitors, last year, 42 per cent of 24
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exhibitors generated business value between 100,000 to 500,000 USD while 18 per cent generated business value between 500,000 to 1 million USD and three per cent even generated business worth more than 1 million USD. TGFM comes at a time when a new study from the World Bank Group and the World Economic Forum show that the UAE has the most competitive economy in the Middle East and North Africa MENA region, with a combination of factors driving this growth including: world class infrastructure, diversification of the economy away from oil, a growing population, changing consumer patterns and a booming leisure market as well as a rise in consumer spending and the country’s emergence as a leading shopping destination in the region. ✤
WHAT: The Global Franchise Market - TGFM WHERE: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre WHEN: December 5-6, 2018 WEBSITE: www.globalfranchisemarket.com
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HOTEL HOTSPOT MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCED the opening of the design-led Aloft Dubai South, the Aloft brand’s fourth property to open in Dubai this year. Developed by Radar Holdings, the vibrant new hotel will deliver a tech-forward approach and a modern style that is different by design to the bourgeoning business and trade district. Aloft Dubai South is ideally located within the aviation and logistics hub and is also near Dubai’s second major airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, and the rapidly expanding Expo 2020 site. “We are excited to make our entry into the Dubai South district with the opening of a new Aloft hotel,” said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International. “With the ongoing expansion of the Al Maktoum International Airport and the rapidly developing site of Expo 2020, which will see 25 million visitors, Dubai South is the ideal location for a brand like the Aloft which is designed for the hyper-connected, “always on” global traveller.” Already home to the world’s largest logistics and aviation companies, the Dubai South area continues to develop ahead of the start of Expo2020 which will see six months of historic celebrations spread over an area covering 438 hectares. As the first hotel to open in the area, Aloft will establish a firm foothold in one of the region’s fast-growing and most exciting neighborhoods. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.ALOFTDUBAISOUTH.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
FARMER’S MARKET FARMERS’ MARKET ON Bay Avenue, Business Bay, is back for its 10th season. This year will see the market run on both Fridays and Saturdays, with extended hours from 7am until 3pm. Baker & Spice’s community-led initiative supports local organic farmers with a rent-free space to showcase their home-grown, organic produce (fruits and vegetables), sell directly to customers, and keep all of the profits. Consumers can connect directly to growers, and regulars usually bring in their own seeds they’d like farmer’s to grow or else place orders for their preferred produce. You can also enjoy fresh fruit, honey, eggs, bread, sweets, pastries and more. Children can spend their time on face painting, or painting on a canvas, as well as a playing area and skate park. Experience some organic love with some partnering vendors, such as Carla Thetford, an artisan cheesemaker in Dubai, Dima Sharif, who buys vegetables from the market and uses for picking, Mirzan chocolate, Slow Food, and more. Free entry. ✤
GO: CALL (0)4 427 9856 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 26
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LE ROYAL MERIDIEN ABU DHABI PRESENTS
AN IMAGINATIVE BRUNCHING ADVENTURE
Experience a one of a kind all-you-can-eat brunch that joins the four elements of earth, water, fire and air. Together with four of the hippest destinations that Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi has to offer every Friday, 1pm - 4pm.
Now,.. # W HATSYOU RELEMENT?
Brunch Packages: AED 275 soft beverages | AED 375 house beverages AED 425 premium beverages & sparkling | AED 495 French bubbles Free kids below 6 years | AED 125 kids 6 -12 years All prices are in UAE Dirham and are inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees and taxes.
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE 800 101 101 or restaurants.lrmad@lemeridien.com #WhatsYourElement #LeRoyalMeridienAD | leroyalmeridienabudhabi.com
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• SOCIETY
#HOUSE #OF #TILBURY #POP-UP #PARTY The World’s #1 Celebrity Makeup Artist, Charlotte Tilbury celebrated opening three more stand-alone Beauty Wonderlands in The Middle East with an exclusive, star-studded preview party at her House of Tilbury pop-up! A host of VIPs, influencers and press were welcomed to her Beauty Wonderland pop-up, the House of Tilbury at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai! Guests were able to fully immerse themselves in Charlotte’s World of makeup magic as they explored every star-studded element of the House of Tilbury. From a perfectly, pink Pillow Talk Powder Room and rock ‘n’ roll inspired Lashformation Lounge to the flawless Magical Complexion boudoir and a Hollywood-inspired Tilbury Terrace - the House of Tilbury allowed guests to explore her award-winning celebrity-loved products, discover her backstage and red carpet secrets and learn her tips and tricks from her 26 year career in the industry!
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NEW SEASON, NEW EATS
Say sayonara to the summer and hello to November weather! As we look forward to a cooler climate, Dubai’s dining scene is gearing up to bring you all your favourite foodie happenings plus some exciting new additions to mark on your calendar. FACT explores… fact magazine
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TOP 8: THEMED NIGHTS Our pick of the best culinary evenings across Dubai…
CATCH OF THE DAY Al Bandar Rotana Creek, Dubai On the 18th floor of Al Bandar Rotana, set in the heart of Dubai Creek; Gusto Italian Restaurant is celebrating the rich history of the emirate’s fisheries, with an Italian twist. Every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday; a selection of the freshest seafood in Dubai is presented to your table. Chef Fortunato (the specialty chef of Gusto) hand selects the freshest seafood and fish from the various markets around Dubai. Once you have chosen, you can also customise the cooking method too. The Culinary team are on hand to answer any questions about the absolute best way to enjoy. GO: Call (0)4 704 2222 for reservations and more information.
CRAZY MONDAYS Crazy Fish Dubai Set within the iconic DIFC, Crazy Fish brings the sophisticated vibe of Monte Carlo into the heart of Dubai with its distinct offerings of fresh catches and live entertainment. Now the innercity eatery has introduced a brand new party-dining experience, set to excite and tantalise the city’s taste buds. Crazy Mondays is hosted by a very merry sailor, a marvellous mermaid, and will offer a sharing set menu with a glass of Prosecco for only AED350. Diners are invited to unwind as the Chef produces delicious food, as the DJ keeps playing. GO: Call (0)4 352 9429 for reservations and more information.
A TASTE OF VIETNAM
BELLISIMA THURSDAYS Address Dubai Marina Take a culinary journey through Italy at Bellisima Thursdays in Mazina. All the family favourites are on show, including homemade pasta and pizza, a bruschetta station, as well as a dedicated burrata area and traditional tiramisu. There is no better way to ease into the weekend than with a heart-warming meal that transports you to the mozzafiato country that is Italy. From 7pm to 11pm. AED225 per person including soft beverages, AED295 per person with free-flowing house beverages, AED115 per child aged between six and 11 years old, children aged 5 and below dine complimentary. GO: Call (0)4 888 3444 for reservations and more information. 30
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Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah If you always dreamed of visiting Vietnam for a culinary journey, look no further than Lao. Offering seven freshly prepared appetisers from some of the spectacular provinces of the country. Crafted to ignite the senses, Chef Mai’s appetisers include Tuna Banh Trang, lemongrass lollipops or summer spring rolls. To complete your dining trip, pair dinner with a selected Vietnamese iced tea or cocktail. AED125 per person, served 7pm to 11pm. GO: Call (0)4 818 2222 for reservations and more information.
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CURRY ON AND SING(HA) Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre For an authentic Thai experience, look no further than Sukhothai! Enjoy tongue-tingling, freshly prepared curries, served with a choice of coconut rice or steamed jasmine rice for just AED109. With the classic water chestnut dessert and a whopping 25% discount on Singha, Thai aficionados are in for a great treat! Available from Monday to Wednesday, 7pm to 11.45pm. GO: Call (0)4 702 2455 for reservations and more information.
SOLO FOR THE SOUL Raffles Dubai Groove to the smooth sounds of International pop sensation and soul singer Nya Crea every Wednesday from 8pm to 11pm and rediscover freshly made Italian favourites with your friends and loved ones in a lively atmosphere. Executive Chef Doxis Bekris introduces a sharing set menu of delicious homemade specialties inspired by Italy’s diverse regions. Start with three antipasti dishes including Solo’s take on the classic Bruschetta, Mozzarella Di Bufala and Fritto Misto followed by a whole grilled red snapper for two and slow cooked veal cheek with trufflemashed potato fondue. Every week our chefs will prepare one delicious Pasta served tableside in a Parmesan cheese wheel. End your meal with Solo’s signature creamy Tiramisu or Panna Cotta. AED200 per person including soft drinks and AED350 per person including selected house beverages. GO: Call (0)4 324 8888 for reservations and more information.
FLAVOURS OF PERU JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Indulge in mouthwatering Peruvian flavours in a vibrant and enticing space with weathered wood tables, greenery, dimmed lights and mouthwatering food to share. Garden will spoil you with traditional Peruvian dishes, one of the hottest current food trends. The Flavours of Peru 7-course set-menu is set to please every foodie’s taste buds. Guests will be able to sample the restaurant’s must-try items at an affordable price in a lively and unique setting. Every Sunday from 7pm to midnight, AED160 per person, food only. GO: Call (0)4 414 0000 for reservations and more information. 32
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DELIGHT IN DAILY DEALS Address Montgomerie Enjoy a different experience every day of the week at Links with the new Daily Deals. This lively family bistro in Emirates Hills has exciting theme nights and à la carte menus with delectable dishes that you can enjoy indoors or on the terrace overlooking the blossoming greens of the golf course. Sunday evening is Butter Chicken and Hops starting at AED99; Monday is free entry Quiz Night; Tuesday is Burger and Hops starting at AED99; Wednesday is Ladies Night with three complimentary beverages for ladies; and Thirsty Thursdays comes with happy hour prices from 4pm to 8pm. GO: Call (0)4 363 1276 for reservations and more information.
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TOP 10: WEEKEND BRUNCHES Fridays or Saturdays – whichever you prefer for brunching, there’s plenty of choice in Dubai…
THE GARDEN BRUNCH
MORIMOTO DUBAI FRIDAY BRUNCH
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Introducing a Garden Feast-inspired brunch, where friends and family will celebrate a culinary journey and live music together. There’s a fab children’s dedicated area and outstanding views of the desert and garden. An extensive buffet is spread across the garden area and inside Al Forsan restaurant presenting live- cooking stations and a wide range of mouth-watering signature dishes from various cuisines including Middle Eastern, Asian, Indian, and European. For those with a sweet tooth, the brunch promises an impeccable sweet experience, when visiting its dedicated chocolate, candy and pastry corners with bites prepared to perfection. Young guests accompanying their parents are promised a load of unforgettable fun activities featuring a mini zoo, juggler and magician together with face painting, bouncy castle, lawn games and mini golf challenges. Moreover, a pony and a camel will be welcoming the little ones for rides starting from 1.30pm. Served from 1pm to 4pm, priced at AED365 per person with soft drinks; AED545 per person with house beverages; 50% discount for children aged five to 12-years-old. GO: Call (0)4 809 6194 for reservations and more information.
Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai Elevating the spirit of Morimoto Dubai, this new weekly event is a celebration of great food and drinks, beginning at the Morimoto lounge bar where pre-drinks and eclectic beats are served. Brunch goers will then savour Chef Morimoto’s signature cuisine served both table side, as well as by the chefs at the open kitchen and sushi bar live stations. In addition to a choice of Zodiac cocktails and house beverages, a dedicated sake bar serves up a selection of sake infusions and premium sake. The Morimoto Brunch at Morimoto Dubai will be available every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm, with three packages priced at AED350 with soft beverages and tea, AED499 with vino, hops, single spirits, Zodiac cocktails and sake infusions and AED650 with bubbly and premium sake. Get ready for some serious food goals and plenty of insta-worthy shots! GO: Call (0)4 512 5577 for reservations and more information.
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THE CITY BRUNCH Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City The Chefs at The Market choose seasonal, nutritious ingredients, maximizing their use our recipes. The Chef’s choice is at the core of The Market. With a wide variety of global foods, cooked
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smartly, choose to indulge in your favourite flavours, whilst focusing on wellness. Join in for a beautiful family brunch. Kids are covered with a large play area and activities including face painting, a movie corner, a PlayStation and cooking classes. Soft drink, alcoholic beverage and kids (aged 5-12) packages are all available upon request. Kids aged below five eat free. Every Friday, 1pm to 4.30pm. GO: Call (0)4 435 5577 for reservations and more information.
THE GREAT WALDORF ASTORIA BRUNCH Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah As the curtain rises on the new brunch season, Mezzerie is taking centre stage with a brand new act. The theatrical brunch features an array of show-stopping dishes, interactive table service, and live entertainment for the whole family. Diners will have front row seats to the interactive chefs whilst indulging in freshly prepared signature dishes, a legendary buffet spread and classic brunch highlights. There’s seafood, sushi and salad stations, Asian and Indian speciality counters, and an enticing desert safari. The afternoon will be complimented with a live saxophonist, a juggling act and magician, and show-worthy tunes. AED290 per person with soft drinks; AED390 per person with house beverages; and AED490 per person with sparkling beverages. Served every Friday from 1pm to 4pm. GO: Call (0)4 818 2222 for reservations and more information.
AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 BITES BRUNCH Al Bandar Rotana Creek, Dubai Themed around Jules Verne’s book ‘Around the World in 80 Days’. Explore with Phileas Fogg and Passepartout as you set off, in Salt & Pepper. The buffet follows the Journey around the world and features cuisine from all the countries in the book. From Britain, Arabia, India, Hong Kong, Japan, the Americas and many more. There is something for mum, dad and the kids. Making this a fun interactive brunching experience. Grownups can also enjoy the themed drink stations, while the children enjoy all the activities designed to be educational as well as fun! Just like the club in the book, the kids will be encouraged to learn new skills and interact with each other. Through various activities themed around the countries in the book. With their very own special buffet, and the little chef corner where the children will be able to learn about cooking and all the ingredients from the different countries. From 12.30pm to 4pm. GO: Call (0)4 704 2222 for reservations and more information.
BRITANNIA BRUNCH Address Downtown Connoisseurs of refined indulgence will be delighted to know that the Address Downtown has launched its first brunch. Inspired by British and European flavours, The Britannia Brunch at The Restaurant will offer a glorious menu of signature and popular international delights, complemented by a generous selection of free-flowing beverages. Guests can savour a delectable array of options from the live cooking stations. The buffet features an assortment of salads, breads, mixed grills, seafood a selection of cheese and cold cuts while the main course is served family fact magazine
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• NEW SEASON NEW EATS style on the table. The dessert menu has a range of mouthwatering delicacies. The venue offers uninterrupted views of The Dubai Fountain shows and Burj Khalifa and is styled to recreate the comforts of home with private dining areas such as the living room, a separate ‘Library’ which is perfect for settled conversations with fine food and beverages. Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced at AED395 per person with beverages; and AED295 per person including soft beverages. GO: Call (0)4 888 3444 for reservations and more information.
GRAND BRUNCH AT CAFÉ BELGE The Ritz-Carlton DIFC Arrive to a Grand Brunch featuring 17 different stations, including an Oyster Bar, Foie Gras Station, Moules Station, Outdoor Barbecue Station, Dim Sum Station, Turkish Stand, Bloody Mary Cart, Gin and Tonic trolley, to name but a few of the culinary pop-ups. In true Belgian spirit, they have set the scene for a memorable Foodie Friday from 12pm to 4pm, with an additional beverage package available to keep you going until 6pm. A dedicated kid’s room with activities is located in the private dining room. The contemporary duo featuring live Saxophone and a DJ/Keyboard will set the ambiance while you sit back and enjoy the ultimate Friday brunch at Cafe Belge. AED395 with soft drinks; AED495 with house beverages; AED595 with house beverages and prosecco; and AED695 with house beverages and champagne. GO: Call (0)4 372 2323 for reservations and more information.
WANDERLUST BRUNCH JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Experience an eclectic and exotic journey through taste. The Wanderlust brunch is a one stop culinary journey around the world. With more than 10 live stations, including extended Japanese section and a variety of beverage stations, this food odyssey will satisfy even the most restless foodies. Embrace your inner wanderlust and embark on this epicurean adventure while enjoying the innovative grooves from DJ Adam J. Every Friday, from 1pm to 4pm, AED425 per person, including food and house beverages. Join in for the after-party and enjoy a 20% discount on beverages from 4pm to 8pm, with DJ Andrii on the decks. Age policy: 21 and above. GO: Call (0)4 414 0000 for reservations and more information.
BOULEVARD CHIC BRUNCH Address Boulevard Make it a feast for all the senses and spoil your taste buds to an ultimate Saturday Brunch at The Restaurant at Address Boulevard. Sophisticatedly set in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Boulevard Chic Brunch brings the world on a plate straight to you. Indulge in a sumptuous array of culinary delights from across the Middle East and Asia, combined with perfectly prepared beverages and upbeat music by the resident DJ. Savour the flavoursome menu featuring an extravagant selection of dishes including Hamachi nigiri with sturia caviar, Asian-style beef tartare, truffled vichyssoise and more at the interactive cooking stations. Every Saturday from 1pm to 4pm, priced at AED345 with soft beverages; AED445 with select house beverages; AED545 with premium beverages. GO: Call (0)4 888 3444 for reservations and more information.
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FRIDAY VINTAGE BRUNCH Melia Desert Palm Immerse in the gourmet delights of RARE’s Friday Vintage brunch with international influences, Taittinger bubbles and grape pairings. Carefully hand selected ingredients combined with artisanal precision to create indulgent cuts of chargrilled meats and fresh seafood expertly paired with a fine wine from the extensive Wine Spectator awarded cellar. The setting breezy social dining from the onyx chef bench to plush sofas on the al fresco terrace to seating by the show kitchen. This is a sophisticated affair! From 12.30pm to 4pm. GO: Call (0)4 323 8888 for reservations and more information.
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TOP 3: LUNCH GOALS Fast and filling or leisurely and lush, lunch time is the new, exciting time of day to get your dining fix…
TIFFIN BOX LUNCH Moombai & Co, The H Dubai The traditional Irani-Parsi cafe, Moombai & Co Café and Bar, has introduced a customisable lunch boxes served in an authentic metallic Tiffin Box for eat-in, take-away and delivery. For just AED45, diners can choose a snack, curry, rice or bread from a wide selection and can even choose the colour of their lunchbox. Available in Red, Green, Orange and Yellow, these colourful tins bring back fond memories of lunchtime in India and provide a quick and convenient lunch option. The snacks options and list of curries and gravies is equally delicious and the box also includes one portion of bread or steam rice. Additional sides or desserts start from just AED10. The Tiffin Box lunch is served between 12pm and 3pm every weekday at AED45 per box (excluding tax). GO: Call (0)4 501 8607 for reservations and more information.
BUSINESS LUNCH DEALS
THAI THIPTARA LUNCH Palace Downtown A perfect event to add to your weekend calendar, this alluring lunch experience aims to mesmerise your sights, sounds and tastes. The best way to savour the marvels of Chef Thani’s traditional, home-made Thai dishes is family style. Overlooking the Burj Lake and the stunning Dubai Fountain show, Thiptara’s sharing conceptual dining sets the stage for a memorable afternoon with a group of friends, colleagues or loved ones. Enjoy dining al fresco on Thiptara’s terrace overlooking the Burj Khalifa or inside for an equally sublime experience. Every Friday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. AED205 per person for food only, AE 245 per person including unlimited soft beverages; AED365 per person including free flowing soft beverages, hops, house grape and selected specialised beverages. GO: Call (0)4 888 3444 for reservations and more information. 38
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The Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai There are several business lunch deals to check out at the stunning Business Bay hotel. Business Lunch at Grounded; those looking for a light lunch can enjoy a salad of their choice, accompanied with coffee for a mid-day boost and a refreshing cold pressed juice. AED69 per person. Business Lunch at BHAR; serving Middle Eastern cuisine interpreted with chef Mohanad’s modern twist, BHAR will be offering a two-course lunch for AED79, or three courses for AED99. Business Lunch at Morimoto Dubai; indulge in a selection of chef Morimoto’s signature dishes while enjoying spectacular views of Downtown Dubai from the 23rd floor, perfect for both a power lunch or a leisurely gettogether with friends. Two courses for AED99 or three courses for AED129. The choice is yours! GO: Call (0)4 512 5555 for reservations and more information.
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TOP 4: AFTERNOON TEA TREATS Indulge in the sweet and savoury side of life at these exquisite afternoon offerings…
AFTERNOON TEA Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah The term 'Peacock Alley' was coined to portray the daily promenade of notables through the original colonnade connecting The Waldorf and The Astoria hotels in New York City. A tradition that continues today, Peacock Alley is an elegant lounge celebrated as a place 'to see and be seen'. Relax over the classic Waldorf Astoria. Afternoon Tea, featuring finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and an assortment of delightful pastries and sample a vast selection of TWG teas. From AED 178 per person. Served daily from 2.30pm to 6pm. GO: Call (0)4 818 2222 for reservations and more information.
LA FARINE CAFÉ & BAKERY JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai La Farine is a contemporary café and bakery where guests can gather, socialise and enjoy gourmet fare in a casual and comfortable setting. Discover why afternoon tea is about a lot more than just tea. The tea Sommelier will introduce you to Tchaba, our signature tea brand, and take you through a journey unlike any other; a sequence of warm bienvenues, mouthwatering treats and smile-worthy moments. Served daily from 3pm to 6pm at AED 250 per couple. GO: Call (0)4 414 3000 for reservations and more information.
SIDRA LOUNGE Habtoor Palace, LXR Hotels & Resort The chic Sidra Lobby Lounge, has introduced a brand new Grand Afternoon Tea, available every Saturday from 2pm to 5pm for just AED225. The most charming afternoon tea experience in the city will comprise of numerous courses, including a large selection of finely cut sandwiches, a mouth-watering range of exquisitely presented pastries and teacakes alongside an array of traditional freshly baked scones with clotted cream. A salmon station will be set up for the whole afternoon, where the Chef will be carving three delicious types of home-cured salmon onto fresh bagel. The five-course menu will be completed with an exquisite homemade sorbet floating on a cloud of smoke. There are 18 fine loose-leaf teas, each cup of tea brewed to absolute perfection. The elegant ambiance is complemented by a musical ensemble with a female trio, including the resident pianist, cellist and violinist. GO: Call (0)4 435 5555 for reservations and more information.
THE CHAMPAGNE & TEA LOUNGE Dukes Dubai Pamper yourself with a scrumptious high tea at the oh-soBritish Tea Lounge. Enjoy a heavenly selection of savouries accompanied by our handmade pastries and scones with clotted cream and jam, as well as delicately flavoured tea, handpicked and blended from the choicest tea estates the world over. Stylish yet intimate, the Tea Lounge is scented with fresh English roses and bathed in deliciously warm sunlight with spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. Daily from 12noon to 5pm. GO: Call (0)4 455 1101 for reservations and more information. fact magazine
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TOP 6: INSTA-WORTHY AL FRESCO DINING Our favourite outdoor lounges, terraces and gardens to get your upcoming fresh air fix…
FISH DUBAI Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Fish Dubai, one of Dubai’s most Instagrammable restaurants, has thrown open its blue shutter doors for the winter season. The Aegean favourite, perched along the shores of the Mina Seyahi, offers uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. The talented chefs work alongside a team of fishermen in Turkey as the new fishing season kicks off, to bring Dubai diners a tempting and seasonal selection of traditional Turkish and Greek cuisine alongside the freshest, wildest cold-water fish fresh from the Aegean Sea. Open daily from 6PM to 11PM, Fish Beach offers a dining experience like no other. Styled as a modern seaside tavern, a true rustic and whitewashed haven with subtle nods towards the ‘family home’, the venue is the perfect spot for indulging in great food and creating like-worthy insta content. GO: Call (0)4 511 7139 for reservations and more information.
CHIVAL COURTYARD La Ville Hotel & Suites On Wednesdays and Thursdays (8pm to 11pm) and Fridays (6pm to 9pm), you can experience the outdoors listening to different professional solo acts performing live. Artists perform 40
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everything from acoustic to vocal and music genres include RnB, Soul and Funk. All within an intimate courtyard setting and serving an all-new Levant dinner menu and hubbly bubbly. On the daily, Chival offers up a delicious breakfast menu. Even if you are not early risers, Chival’s scrumptious breakfast spread will have you awake bright and early. Serving breakfast until 11am, the restaurant touts a bustling array of choices – whether you’re looking for healthy, indulgent or somewhere in the middle. AED125 per person for the buffet with unlimited food and beverages, or a la carte. GO: Call (0)54 309 5948 for reservations and more information.
LEVEE La Mer Dubai Levee Café and Lounge embraces the new season by offering dishes that delight the palate, service that warms the heart, and a relaxing seaside ambiance for the perfect series of insta stories! Let the sunshine and cool breeze lead you to La Mer’s beachside dining hotspot. Start your morning with some Waffles with Caramel and Homemade Nutella or their take on the classic Shakshuka Eggs. Take a break from sunbathing with a selection of Flat Breads and refreshing Watermelon Cooler for lunch. Or
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definitely want to show off on your insta while dining on the outdoor terrace. This multi-award winning restaurant brings an intricate and rich North Indian mix of flavours to your palate. Sail away to the majestic Mughal era at Khyber, styled in warm colours and ornate tapestries. Indulge in the delicious signature slow cooked leg of lamb beautifully infused with spices and finish your meal with the pièce de résistance Milky Way dessert, a galaxy of saffron pearls on a bed of tempered condensed milk. Not only are you guaranteed great service, but also serious hashtag food goals. GO: Call (0)4 455 1111 for reservations and more information.
better yet, enjoy dinner by the sea with Pan-fried Seabass and Seafood Tagliatelle made fresh. Mediterranean dishes made simple complemented by stunning views, it’s all about indulging in life’s simple pleasures at Levee this season. GO: Call (0)4 380 2000 for reservations and more information.
NINETEEN Address Montgomerie Nineteen is one elegant venue with a casual and inviting atmosphere. Think home comfort meets stylish interiors and you’ve got the perfect venue to bask in the cooler climate. Drenched in natural sunlight, Nineteen comprises spacious interiors, a relaxed drink area and a terrace overlooking the stunning championship golf course of Address Montgomerie. Fresh wholesome food and perfect portions to share define the culinary concept here. Enjoy the social component of eating with sharing platters as the new menu boasts dishes with bold wholesome flavours, colours and garden picked ingredients. With a vast Beverage menu, Nineteen perfectly defines a leisurely winter’s afternoon surrounded by lush greenery in the midst of Dubai. GO: Call (0)4 888 3444 for reservations and more information.
KHYBER Dukes Dubai Khyber is situated on the 15th floor of Dukes Dubai with a 180-degree view of the Dubai Marina, a view that you will
LE MERIDIEN VILLAGE TERRACE Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre Introducing exotic offerings from around the world, every evening. Go along and experience unique al fresco dining and make the most of the breezy, relaxed surroundings! Kick off with Mexican specials on Thursdays, BBQ Fridays, seafood aficionados are covered on Saturdays, let loose after a long day at work with Mediterranean delicacies on Sundays, Curry On Mondays, tour the Far East on Tuesdays and I Heart Meat on Wednesdays! Feast on culinary specialities and unique global flavours with The X-Groove band setting the mood. The outdoor vibes at Le Meridien Village Terrace mean twinkling lights and breezy evenings – what else could you ask for from winter in Dubai? Starting from AED239 per person all-you-can-eat and free flow of house beverages; and AED115 for kids aged six to 12. Served from 8pm to 11pm. ✤ GO: Call (0)4 217 0000 for reservations and more information.
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GARDEN PARTY VIBES All you need to throw the ultimate outdoor bash is a good space and FACT’s useful tips and tricks to set up the perfect party setting in your backyard…
IN THE BEGINNING: Level Out: The area you choose when you plan a party outdoors should be flat enough for tables and chairs, and the terrain should allow for guests to mingle comfortably without the fear of stumbling. The Theme: Decide on a theme, if you want one, then make, buy, or borrow any decorations you may need. Don’t forget to inform guests on your invitations. Line up any help you need: anyone who can help with pre or post-party cleaning, or to pass drinks or appetisers, replenish buffet food, tidy up, and generally take some weight off your shoulders. Line Up Any Help You Need: Consider hiring a professional, a student, or anyone who can help 42
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part-time with pre-
or post-party cleaning, or to pass drinks or appetisers, replenish buffet food, tidy up, and generally take some weight off your shoulders. Create a Playlist: Whether it’s the best of summer songs, DJ recommended chill-out tunes, or something relative to your guests’ personal tastes, music is key. Either set up speakers outside, or use a portable sound system to play your music.
THE FOOD: Grilling: A bbq is the perfect choice because it allows for smoke to travel into open air, but also helps to lure all your hungry guests to the table. Meats, chicken, seafood and some veggies can all be cooked on a bbq, so even if you have fussy eaters – everyone will be catered to.
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Fresh Fruits & Salads: Autumnal produce like nuts, beetroot, figs, mushrooms, pomegranate, pumpkin and cranberries, are just some of the foods that play into the garden theme. Self-serve Drink Station: This is a party must and deserves a long table all to itself. Arrange a variety of beverage options with all the necessary accessories. Popular drinks for garden parties include fruit punch, iced tea and lemonade. Make sure all drinks are served at the temperature they’re supposed to be! Cold Desserts: Remember, in the GCC, winter just means less hot and humid than usual. So, ice creams, sorbets, milkshakes and homemade ice pops are still a must!
THE GAMES: Larger Than Life: If you’ve got some cardboard boxes lying around, cut numerous large squares and write a letter on each one – voila, garden Scrabble anyone? Don’t forget, there are plenty of online websites that sell giant games like Connect 4 and Jenga too. Get Into Teams: Get absolutely everyone involved and go for the classics like charades, musical statues and musical chairs – these games get people energised and in a fun spirit – that’s what you want for a successful garden party.
Use What You Have: Assess the mood at your party and if guests are relaxing and prefer a chilled atmosphere, just whip out a deck of cards and gather around with drinks for some quick, fun games.
THE DECOR: Outdoor Furniture: We’re thinking rustic tables, wooden benches, foldout chairs, sunbeds, comfy cushions and everything in between. Having the right outdoor furniture can really add a comfort value that guests will appreciate. If there’s grass – perfect. Lay down large thick blankets with cooler sheets on top and decorate with garden pillows for comfort. Accessories: We’re talking tableware, tree hangings, dessert stands, drink glasses, and anything used to decorate the surroundings. If your party is going on into the evening, use lots of cool lanterns with candles inside or string lighting, hung haphazardly on walls and branches, to create an inviting mood. Opt for the new milk bottle-style glasses for serving drinks, with funky straws. Shaded Areas: It’s all about the lighting. You don’t want the sun to be making your guests squint all the time, nor do you want them to strain their eyes to see. Use hanging umbrellas for something different as a way to create shade, or put up a canopy, tent, or even chose to host the party in a gazebo – it’s all about thinking out of the box to bring a sense of occasion. ✤ fact magazine
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Winter PEAKS
THE VILLAGE OF COURCHEVEL 1850 HIGH UP IN THE FRENCH ALPES IS A PICTURE POSTCARD OF THE LIKES SEEN ON CHRISTMAS CARDS. FACT’S DAVID TAPLEY DISCOVERS THE LES GRANDES ALPES PRIVATE HOTEL AND TELLS YOU WHY THIS ICONIC SKIING LOCATION NEEDS TO BE ON YOUR SEASONAL BUCKET LIST. fact magazine
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festive charm engulfs this small mountain enclave with its narrow winding streets piled high with freshly fallen snow, fir trees strung with twinkling fairy lights and the vast peaks and pistes of the Alpes all around, with Mont Blanc the highest peak in Europe front and centre on the horizon. Named after the elevation at which it sits, Courchevel 1850 forms part of the world’s largest ski resort, encompassing three valleys, 600km of ski runs and over 160 ski lifts. A haven for winter sports enthusiasts and luxury jet setters, the focus of this quaint mountain retreat is the Les Grandes Alpes Private Hotel; a property which over the years has taken on many roles, beginning as a post office, before transitioning into a bank and ski school, and then opening as the very first hotel in Courchevel back in 1948, the same year as the resort’s first ever ski lift. Located in the very heart of upmarket Courchevel 1850, the Les Grandes Alpes is an upscale mountain property benefitting from a prime position on the piste and making for one of the only ski in/ski out hotels in town. Sitting alongside the likes of luxury brands such as Bulgari, Louis Vuitton and Chanel, the stone facade of the building makes for the stereotypical representation of a luxury alpine retreat, complete with wooden balconies and rooftops heaving under the weight of freshly fallen snow. As if stuck in a state of eternal Christmas, Les Grand Alpes is the perfect marriage of chalet and luxury hotel that leans heavily into the high-end market. A whimsical winter wonderland awaits guests from the moment they arrive at the property, with a festive staircase aligned with foliage and wicker creations.
SUITE LIFE
The property, which was remodeled in 2012 comprises of nine apartments and a total of 30 bedrooms and suites, with the unique layout of Les Grandes Alpes allowing for complete customisation when it comes to room configuration. The four-bedroom Emerald Suite occupies the entire fourth floor of the property and clocks in at an impressive 300m2, offering remarkable views over the tree-lined slopes and numerous ski lifts. South facing dining and living rooms represent the ultimate in comfort, with a circular glass fireplace representing the heart of this particular penthouse. Curled up on the sofas with a mug of hot chocolate and fur blankets while watching the falling snow makes for a truly memorable evening and one of the (many) highlights of a stay at Les Grand Alpes. These spacious suites have more to offer than the view. A professional kitchen, where private chefs can create culinary marvels is just the tip of the iceberg. Similarly, the children’s play room is not necessarily what you might expect, but offers the perfect solution/excuse for adults to venture into the suite’s very own miniature spa, complete with massage and steam rooms that complement the luxury values of a property where it would appear nothing is too much trouble! Les Grand Alpes offers an undeniably luxury experience wrapped up in a contemporary and quirky charm thanks to French interior designer Jean-Marc Mouchet, where Arctic and Antarctic animals are utilised in both artworks and decorative touches throughout - from bold polar bear prints to the plastic penguins that line the lobby. Much like the property and its facilities, service is premium, taking the notion of fivestar luxury and raising the bar that bit further. Each suite comes with a personal butler (ask for Gael), who is on hand to ensure a personalised 46
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guest experience at all times, one where no request is too much or too little, resulting in Les Grand Alpes feeling like a genuine home away from home (with lots of snow!). The bedrooms are particularly impressive, with their wooden cladding helping to create a feeling of alpine adventure. Insanely comfortable beds are laden with pillows and fur blankets and skylights cleverly positioned above, ensure guests can marvel at a star-filled sky through a funnel of snow as they drift off to sleep. Luxury touches are noted and appreciated from the fur-lined slippers and bathrobes through to the heated toilet seats and Hermes toiletries.
LUXURY DINING
Catering to the elite clientele of Couchevel 1850, the dining destinations at Les Grandes Alpes are expectedly high-end. For the après-ski experience, many guests will flock to Bellini’s, a lounge bar situated adjacent to the hotel’s reception area. As the namesake suggests, the peach Bellini reigns supreme at this late night establishment and comes served in ornate crystal glassware using freshly imported peaches representative of French decadence at its finest. There’s also Le Bizan a small sushi restaurant situated at the rear of the bar, with minimal seating. A sushi spot is perhaps the last thing diners might expect high in the Alpes but the new style cuisine which fuses together both Japanese and Mediterranean elements, astounds in both flavour and presentation, headed up by the Executive Chef of Zuma in Rome.
SKI AND SPA
When it comes to recreation, guests have the opportunity to ski or spa. Zooming down the mountainside certainly offers a thrill and even beginners are catered for via the in-house team of friendly and encouraging ski instructors. Getting kitted up while sat upon Hermes leather upholstery and slotting our feet into pre-heated ski boots has got to be the ultimate way to start an alpine adventure and we fear that there
is no going back now we know just how opulent a ski experience can be. By comparison, the Bellefontaine Spa offers a more subdued experience via a variety of bespoke treatments undertaken by expert therapists, utilising ingredients from the Alps including glacial water. While our suite had a mini spa, it doesn’t quite compare to what the Bellefontaine offers guests at Les Grand Alpes. An indoor heated swimming pool takes on the appearance of a luxury boathouse offering views of the ski lifts and snow-capped peaks from the comfort of regal chaise longues, while solace from the cold can be found in the sauna and steam bath. Though the resort is a 2.5 hour drive from Geneva along precarious mountain roads hugging close to the limestone mountainside, the demand for luxury prevails. With this specific clientele in mind and a money-is-no-object attitude, private helicopter charters can transport guests over the Alpes to Switzerland and Lake Geneva in less than half an hour. A breathtaking experience on its own! Winter sports enthusiasts flock to Courchevel for the skiing, mountains and mesmerising natural beauty. With the crisp mountain air providing a brisk revitalisation, it’s the cold that is most noticeable and at minus 18 degrees it feels as though your heart is being grasped by jack frost, or perhaps it’s just the magnificent views that leave us in a state of perpetual awe. But the beauty is that you don’t have to ski or snowboard, for the wealth of activities available in this compact mountain village is quite remarkable. From spa days to dog sledging and even the high-speed toboggan run which hurtles the brave down a 3km trail through alpine forests and snow drifts – there’s snow boredom here (see what we did there). ✤
GO: CALL+33 4 50 02 59 10 OR VISIT WWW.RESIDENCES-PVG. FR/EN FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• HOTEL HOTSPOT
THE
HIDDEN COVE WHEN WE COME ACROSS RESORTS IN THE UAE THAT MAKE US FEEL LIKE WE’RE RELAXING ON FARAWAY SHORES, IT’S USUALLY A SECRET WE LIKE TO KEEP TO OURSELVES. HOWEVER, FACT’S LATEST STAYCATION ESCAPE WAS SO BREATHTAKING THAT IT WOULD BE A CRIME NOT TO SHARE. WELCOME TO THE COVE ROTANA RESORT, RAS AL KHAIMAH…
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s the very first Rotana property to have opened in Ras Al Khaimah, The Cove Rotana Resort sure has set the standards sky high. The sprawling hospitality favourite has become a sanctuary for many in the UAE who want a clean escape from the weekly nine-to-five grind, and a holiday of charm and culture for international and regional visitors. It’s no surprise as to why the stunning resort has gained so much popularity, and so quickly, you only have to step inside the relaxed yet elegant hotel reception area to have your first impressions and expectations exceeded. Hugging the idyllic water inlet on the Ras Al Khaimah beachfront, overlooking the glittering Arabian Gulf and boasting 600 metres of pristine beach, it’s sometimes hard to remind yourself that you are in fact still in the UAE, where hot and humid reigns supreme – but the excitement of cool weather means more time for splendid staycations. A very friendly front desk member of staff – dressed in immaculate, traditional local attire, greets us. It’s so great to see and be welcomed by a local. This adds a sense of genuine allure and uniqueness that many hotels in the UAE lack – the presence of someone warm, efficient and, most importantly, local, to meet guests at check in. We instantly love the charisma of this resort!
LAGOON LUXURY
A total of 204 cosy rooms, designed with a distinctive Nubian touch, and 78 comfortable villas are serenely dotted around the resort. Whether you want to be in the hills or the lagoon, there’s plenty of accommodation choice to please every member of the family. Our large twin room is part of a duplex, three-bedroom villa located in the lagoon. You know what this means, right? Wonderful views, of course. Our ginormous balcony-cum-terrace has ample space from which to lounge and sip your morning cup of tea or coffee, whilst admiring the beach scenes (and you can pretty much get a good idea of how full or empty the beach is from here, in case you’re planning to hit the loungers for a tanning sesh). The room has everything you could dream of; intricate arch details with simple, earthy décor and some of the comfiest beds, ever. Most of all, there’s a fact magazine
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great amount of space with the bed area being separated via some steps from the living room; good for those who may have a little bit of work to catch up on but don’t want to do it whilst in bed, or for those who want to lounge in front of the TV. To top that off, the bathroom is one of the nicest we’ve had in a resort. It’s big enough to twirl in with a large shower and vanity area, plus all your lush amenities – perfect. We loved that there was already an iron and ironing board in the room and that we didn’t have to call housekeeping to get this, like in many other hotels. It’s the simple things in life! Cleanliness, comfort and convenience is at the forefront here and we indulged in our room, to the max.
FOODIE FIX
Considering that you’re surrounded by sea and desert, the food options at The Cove Rotana Resort are rather impressive. For breakfast, at Cinnamon All-Day Dining, you’ll find everything from an egg station to a crepe counter, pastry haven, big fry up style food such as sausages, hash browns, beans (all that good stuff) as well as cereals, yogurts, cold cuts, cheese, fruit and more. Coffee, tea and juices flow nicely, and the views from the outdoor terrace are a gorgeous way to start your morning. Throughout the day and evening, you have the choice of three beach and pool bars as well as the lobby lounge to snack, nibble, feast – however hungry or laid back you feel. What’s a staycation without a lovely dinner? Treat yourself to mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine at Basilico Mediterranean Restaurant, a casual fine dining venue with a variety of traditional choices blending Mediterranean cuisine with an Italian emphasis. Complete with arched brown brick ceilings that create a spacious atmosphere and complemented with warm wood furniture, Basilico also has an open kitchen with live cooking station which is sure to impress. Be amazed by the breath-taking view overlooking the Arabian Gulf and leisurely enjoy the best that life has to offer “La Dolce Vita.” Some of the must-have dishes include the creamy burrata, the tempting arancini, the juicy messy prawns and the tenderloin steak with sautéed spinach. If you have room for dessert (and you should definitely try and keep some) the tiramisu is a classic winner and so is the selection of ice creams. When it comes to food, you’re covered!
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ALL FOR FUN
For those of you who want a good balance of fitness and relaxation, The Cove Rotana Resort has it all. The state-of-the-art facilities at Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club kept us pumped for a good couple of hours, making sure that we hit our steps and exercise goals for the day. There are a variety of fitness classes alongside cardiovascular and weight training too which can be followed by some well-needed chillout time in the jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, or even one of the seven massage rooms. Catering to both the younger guests and custodians, when you’re not lounging on the beach, let the little ones enjoy Flipper's Kids' Club, the family Sunset Pool, or the fun kids pool. For any couples or groups of friends, you’ve got the Sandal Beach Club and a dedicated infinity pool for adults only (16+). Furthermore, adrenalin junkies can have their share of fun with plenty of cool water sports and offsite activities such as desert and fishing trips – take your pick! There are few places in the Northern Emirates that can transport you from the high-rise city life to the tranquil lair of rest and recreation; but The Cove Rotana Resort succeeds in doing just that. Staycations have never been SO good! ✤
GO: VISIT THE COVE ROTANA RESORT IN RAS AL KHAIMAH. CALL (0)7 206 6000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• ENTERTAINMENT
BIG SCREEN Can You Ever Forgive Me? WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
After decades of making a living by profiling the likes of Katherine Hepburn, Tallulah Bankhead, Estee Lauder and journalist Dorothy Kilgallen, celebrity biographer Lee Israel is unable to get published as she has fallen out of step with current times. Turning her art of writing into forgery, Israel and her friend Jack take up deception in order to pay the bills.
DIRECTOR: Marielle Heller CAST: Melissa McCarthy, Richard E. Grant
WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?
A raw and gritty insight into friendship, loneliness and creative insecurity, Can You Ever Forgive Me? tells a story that the audience has never seen before. Based on Lee Israel’s memoir of the same name, Marielle Heller’s latest offering is a period piece, crime drama and comedy, all wrapped up in one. Featuring Melissa McCarthy’s most convincing role yet, the film turns Israel’s mean and dark character into a surprisingly sympathetic figure. After losing her job, celebrity biographer Lee Israel adapts her writing skills into creating fake letters from famous people and selling them for hundreds of dollars. Teamed up with her close friend, Jack Hock, Israel keeps her lucrative new career going until the Feds catch up with them both. Apart from the gripping plot, McCarthy’s versatile performance totally reels you in. Coming from a place of love and understanding, the biopic stands out from the rest with its unique and delicate approach.
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Highlights
A Star Is Born WHAT’S IT ABOUT:
“
A raw and gritty insight into friendship, loneliness and creative insecurity, Can You Ever Forgive Me? tells a story that the audience has never seen before.
Struggling artist Ally has just about given up on her dream to make it big as a singer when she is discovered by musician Jackson Maine. As they fall in love and Ally’s career takes off, the couple fights for their relationship while Jackson struggles with his inner demons.
– Can You Ever Forgive Me DIRECTOR: Bradley Cooper CAST: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga
WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?
Backed with Lady Gaga’s exquisite vocals along with Bradley Cooper’s stunning performance, the actor’s directorial debut has us totally star stuck! The third American remake of the original 1937 film, the new reincarnation of the timeless tale is the most realistic take yet. Jackson Maine, a hard-drinking musician, discovers and falls in love with a young singer. After performing at several concerts with him, they begin to form a relationship and fuelling each other’s dreams. With Lady Gaga’s moving performance at the heart of the film; it really touches a chord by painting a vivid portrait of life seen from the other side of the stage of the unforgiving music business.
ENTERTAINMENT •
FULLY BOOKED
ON THE RECORD
NON-FICTION
What If This Were Enough? By Heather Havrilesky
ALT-ROCK/PUNK
VI
By You Me At Six
From pop-infused summertime drive songs to funky anthems, You Me At Six continue their music evolution with VI. Fusing electronic influences into their classic rock sound, the Surrey five-piece are experimenting with uncharted musical territory in their latest offering. Featuring throbbing baselines and roaring guitars, Fast Forward is likely to excite longtime fans. Showcasing Josh Franceschi’s stunning vocals, the catchy rock track gives the album an exhilarating start. The song will prepare you for the bangers to follow! Switching moods and sounds throughout the album, the band successfully reinvents their sound while recreating the magic that made everyone fall in love with them in the first place. One of their best songs in years, 3AM is much lighter and less aggressive while still featuring some rock elements. A drastic change for the band, the track lets the band move forward with a new sound that is much more slick and styled. A thrilling departure from their last album, VI merges genres effortlessly while also keeping their original rock band roots intact. Featuring both dark and light elements, VI manages to constantly keep us on our toes.
DANCE/POP
Phoenix
By Rita Ora After over six years since the release of her first and only studio album, Rita Ora is finally blessing us with a brand new record! While the singer has remained a fixture in pop music, a fully fledged album was long overdue. Gearing up to reintroduce herself, Ora’s long-awaited sophomore album is a true labour of love. Packed with raw, unapologetic emotions, Phoenix sees the singer at her most vulnerable. Embracing modern, electro-infused pop, Let You Love Me talks about insecurities in the beginning of a new relationship. Featuring her dreamy vocals layered over a laidback futuristic beat, the song has all the trappings of an end of summer smash! A rollercoaster of emotions, the album takes fans on an epic musical journey. Anywhere, featuring strong vocals and a gripping beat is an instant bop. From its stunning guitar-led verses to the modern beat drop in the chorus, the track is definitely one of our favourites on the album. Exploring a lot of emotions and new sounds, this album is everything that we have been waiting for.
Chronicling our expectations from modern life and all of its sweet imperfections, What If This Were Enough? will make you view life in a whole new light. Using her witty and often provocative style, Havrilesky urges readers to look for the miraculous in the mundane. From our misunderstandings of love and success to the allure of materialism, she deconstructs some of the most misleading social messages we are exposed to today. Impassioned and inspiring!
FICTION
Hearts Unbroken By Cynthia Leitich Smith Soon after dumping her first real boyfriend for disrespecting Native people, Louise Wolfe finds herself with a major story to cover for her high school newspaper. The school’s musical director is staging an inclusive version of The Wizard of Oz and many people in their small, white, middle class town aren’t happy about it. As tensions mount and long-held prejudices are laid bare, Lou learns how race will always be an important part of her life. A realistic and necessary reflection.
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NOMINEES REVEALED! VOTING IS NOW OPEN FOR THE FACT DINING AWARDS DUBAI 2018. HAS YOUR FAVOURITE VENUE BEEN NOMINATED?
HOW IT WORKS: l 36 categories with over 200 nominees. l There are two winners in each category – a BEST and FAVOURITE. l BEST is decided by an anonymous panel of judges made up of industry experts, reputed bloggers and the editorial team. l FAVOURITE is decided through online public voting which is
open for three months. l A gala award ceremony will take place on November 13, 2018, at the 5-star Dukes Dubai. l 74 awards will be given out on the night, covering hundreds of venues. l Around 500 guests will be invited to a complimentary, sociable evening of five-star food and drinks. l FACT Dining Awards is part of a wider initiative by FACT M.E. with annual ceremonies in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Qatar, too.
GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE NOMINEES! VOTE NOW ON WWW.FACT-MAGAZINE.COM. fact magazine
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International
Italian Fine Dining
• The Observatory - Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites • Play Restaurant & Lounge - The H Dubai • Cara - The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Al Dawaar - Hyatt Regency Dubai • Giardino - Palazzo Versace Dubai • The Beach House - Anantara The Palm • Porterhouse Steaks & Grills - Sofitel • Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa • Yalumba – Le Meridien Hotel Dubai & Conference Centre • Feast – Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai • Channel’s – Media Rotana Dubai • Barbary Dei & Cocktail Club – Tryp by Wyndham Dubai
• Solo - Raffles Dubai • Il Borro Tuscan Bistro - Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel Dubai; • Roberto’s - DIFC • Social By Heinz Beck - The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Cipriani - DIFC • BiCE Ristorante - Hilton Dubai Jumeirah • Alta Badia - Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Quattro Passi - FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai • Prego’s -Media Rotana Dubai
• The Restaurant – Address Boulevard • Ostro - DusitD2 Kenz Hotel • Mythos Kouzina & Grill - Armada BlueBay Hotel JLT • Villa Beach - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Altelier M Restaurant - Pier7 • Palm Avenue - Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Armani/Mediterraneo - Armani Hotel • Seagrill Restaurant & Lounge Fairmont The Palm • Mercury Lounge - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • The Courtyard - Manzil Downtown • The Lighthouse - D3 • The Restaurant - Address Boulevard
French
European
• Bleu Blanc by David Myers – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • La Petite Maison - DIFC • Bistrot Bagatelle - Fairmont Dubai Hotel • Tolosa - Souk Al Bahar Stay by Yannick Alleno - One&Only The Palm • La Cantine du Faubourg - Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Bistro Des Arts - Dubai Marina • La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie - Vida Downtown Dubai • Le Cirque - The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Chez Charles - D3
• 101 Dining Lounge & Bar One&Only The Palm • Salero - Kempinski Mall of the Emirates • At.mosphere Restaurant & Lounge Burj Khalifa • Senara - Palm Views West Palm Jumeirah • Table 9 - Hitlon Dubai Creek • El Sur - The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • BOCA - DIFC • Celebrities - One&Only Royal Mirage • Marina Social - InterContinental Dubai Marina • Folly by Nick & Scott - Souk Madinat Jumeirah • Toro + Ko - City Walk • Publique - Souk Madinat Jumeirah • St Tropez – Mall of the Emirates
Italian Casual
• BASTA! By David Myers – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • Bussola - The Westin Mina Seyahi • Brunello - Kempinski The Palm • Certo - Radisson Blu Dubai Media City • Sicilia - Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai • Matto Italian Restaurant - The Oberoi Dubai • Casa Mia - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Vanitas - Palazzo Versace Dubai • Via Veneto – Manzil Downtown 58
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Mediterranean • Chival - La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk
FACT DINING AWARDS •
British • Pots, Pans & Boards - JBR • Rhodes W1 - Grosvenor House Dubai • The Scene - Pier 7 • Great British Restaurant - Dukes Dubai • Reform Social & Grill - The Lakes • D&G Restaurant & Bar - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Jekyll & Hyde - DIFC • Geales - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa • The Croft – Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites
Middle Eastern & North African • Khan Murjan - Wafi Oud Metha • Khaymat Al Bahar - Jumeirah Al Qasr • Sultan Basha - Nassima Royal Hotel • Shabestan - Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek • Samad Al Iraqi - Jumeirah Beach Road • Boulevard Kitchen - Manzil Downtown Dubai • Tabule - Roda Al Murooj • Mayrig - Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard • Tagine- One&Only Royal Mirage • Al Falamanki Café - Acici Business Park Deira • Enigma – Palazzo Versace Dubai • Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa • BHAR – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai
Turkish • Nusr-Et - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • A La Turca - Rixos The Palm Dubai • Ruya - Grosvenor House Dubai • Lalezar - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Besh – Sheraton Hotel Mall of the Emirates • Gunaydin - Souk Al Bahar • Kaftan - Jumeirah
Lebanese • Leila - Downtown Dubai
• Mazaher - Dubai World Trade centre • Zahr El-Laymoun - Souk Al Bahar • Abd El Wahab - Pier 7 • Em Sherif - Downtown Dubai • Ayam Elezz - The Mall Umm Suqeim • Al Hallab Restaurant & Sweets – The Dubai Mall • Karam Beirut – Mall of the Emirates • Ayamna - Atlantis The Palm • Mawal- Roda Al Murooj • Amaseena - The Ritz-Carlton Dubai • Jumeirah Beach Residence • Al Nafoorah - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Dubai • Al Maeda – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai, Jumeirah Beach
Seafood • Aegean - Rixos The Palm Dubai • Peppercrab - Grand Hyatt Dubai • Moana - Sofitel Dubai The Palm • Bice Mare - Souk Al Bahar • The Main Oyster Bar & Grill - Double Tree By Hiton Dubai Jumeirah Beach • Pierchic - Jumeirah Al Qasr • Ossiano - Atlantis The Palm • Fish Market - Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek • Sea Fu - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara - Burj Al Arab • Seafood Market - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Fish Beach Taverna - Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Steakhouse • The Rib Room - Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Prime Steakhouse – The Meydan Hotel • The Meat Co - Souk Madinat Jumeirah • JW’s Steakhouse - JW Marriott Hotel Dubai • Manhattan Grill Steakhouse - Grand Hyatt Dubai • The Grand Grill - The Habtoor Grand Resort Autograph Collection • Seafire - Atlantis The Palm • Roda Grill and Bar - Roda Al Bustan • Prime68 - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Center Cut - The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • The Exchange Grill - Fairmont Dubai Hotel • Gaucho - DIFC • Rare - Melia Desert Palm Dubai • Graze Gastro Grill – La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk • West 14th – Dukes Dubai • M’s Grill – Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
Chinese Fine Dining • Hong Loong - Sofitel Dubai the Palm Resort • Shang Palace - Shangri-La Dubai • Zheng He’s - Mina A’Salam, Madinat Jumeirah • The China Club - Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek • Yuan - Atlantis The Palm • Noodle Bowl - Satwa • Maiden Shanghai - FIVE Palm Jumeirah • Royal China - DIFC fact magazine
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Chinese Casual Dining
Pan Asian
• Long Yin - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Lang Kwai Fong - Oud Metha • Wok Boyz – Trade Centre Area • Chowking – Various Locations • Asian5 – Various Locations • Panda Chinese Restaurant – Various Locations • Wagamama - Various Locations
• Shanghai Chic - Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai • Wakame - Sofitel Dubai Downtown • Asia Asia - Pier7 • Buddha Bar - Grosvenor House Dubai • Hoi An- Shangri-La Dubai • Novikov - Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai • Blue Jade - The Ritz-Carlton Dubai (Jumeirah Beach Residence) • Lao - The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Zengo - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa • Mekong - Anantara The Palm Dubai • White Orchid - JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort • Ba Restaurant & Lounge - Fairmont The Palm
Japanese • Katana - Downtown Dubai • Nobu Dubai - Atlantis The Palm • Kiku - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Hashi - Armani Hotel Dubai • Sakura- Crowne Plaza Dubai • Sumosan at Billionaire Mansion - Taj Dubai • Izakaya - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Zuma - DIFC • Hibachi - Roda al Bustan • Benihana - Amwaj Rotana • Miyako - Hyatt Regency Dubai • Ramusake - Double Tree By Hilton Hotel Dubai, Jumeirah Beach • Katsuya by Starck - Jumeirah Al Naseem • TOMO- Raffles Dubai
Thai • The Royal Buddha - Holiday Inn Dubai al Barsha • Thiptara - The Palace Downtown • Bambooda - Roda Al Bustan • Café Isan - JLT • Mekong - Anantara The Palm Dubai • The Thai Kitchen - Park Hyatt Dubai • Tong Thai - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Benjarong - Dusit Thani Dubai • Spice Emporium - The Westin Dubai •Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Pai Thai – Jumeirah Al Qasr • Sukhothai - Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Busaba Eathai - The Beach JBR 60
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Indian • Ananta - The Oberoi Dubai • Jodhpur - Roda Al Murooj • Masala – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa • Bombay Brasserie - Taj Dubai • Rang Mahal - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Mint Leaf of London - Emirates Financial Tower DIFC • Mahec - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Amala - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Armani Amal - Armani Hotel Dubai • Tresind - Nassima Royal Hotel • Indego by Vineet - Grosvenor House Dubai • Naya - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Nina - One&Only Royal Mirage • Chor Bazaar - Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai • Khyber - Dukes Dubai
Fusion • Novikov - Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai • Zengo - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & spa
FACT DINING AWARDS •
• Asia Asia - Pier 7 • Eauzone - One&only Royal Mirage • Shanghai Chic - Mövenpick Ibn Batutta Gate Hotel Dubai • Yalumba - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Downtown Toko - Vida Downtown Hotel • Zuma - DIFC • Sea Fu - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
• Tortuga - Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Madinat Jumeirah • Maya Mexican Kitchen & Lounge - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa • Muchachas’ - Holiday Inn Express Safa Park - Jumeirah • Loca - Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeira • Luchador - Aloft Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
North American & Caribbean
• Counter Culture Café - Dubai Marriott • Harbour Hotel & Suites • Dunes Café - Shangri-La Dubai • Leopold’s of London - Various location • Craft Café - D3 • Tom&Serg - Al Quoz • Paul Café - Various location • Cara - The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC • Revo Café - Anantara The Palm Dubai • Brothaus - Steigenberger Hotel Buisness Bay • Baker & Spice - Souk Al Bahar • Shakespeare & Co. - Various Locations • The Surf Café - Jumeirah Beach Road • The Brass - City Walk • Arrows & Sparrows - The Greens • Market 24 – Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights
• The Hide - Jumeirah Al Qasr • Weslodge Saloon - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Ting Irie - Souk al Manzil • Nola Eatery & Social House Armada Blue Bay Hotel • Rootz - JLT • Perry & Blackwelder’s - Souk Madinat Jumeirah • Scape Restaurant & Bar - Burj Al Arab • Soul Restaurant & Bar - Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach • Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant - Burj Views Downtown • Claw BBQ - Souk Al Bahar • Black Tap - Jumeirah Al Naseem
Café
Latin American • La Parilla - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Toro Toro - Grosvenor House Dubai • Lima Dubai - City Walk • Frevo - Fairmont the Palm • Coya - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Garden Peruvian Restaurant - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Maya Modern Mexican Kitchen - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa • Asado - The Palace Downtown Dubai • Waka Dubai - The Oberoi Dubai • Inka - Sofitel Downtown Dubai • Aji - Club Vista Mare Palm Jumeirah
Mexican • La Tablita - Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights
• Aspen - Kempinski Mall of the Emirates • La Farine Café and Bakery - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Shai Salon - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Mashrabiya Lounge - Fairmont The Palm • Orchid Lounge - Dusit Thani Dubai • Al Bayt - The Palace Downtown Dubai • Millennium Lounge - The Meydan Hotel • Leopold’s of London – Various Locations • The Lobby Lounge – Address Boulevard
All Day Dining
Tea Room • Peacock Alley - The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Gourmandises - Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Penrose Lounge - Four Seasons Hotel DIFC • The Lobby Lounge - The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Jumeirah Beach Residence • Choix Par Pierre Gagnaire InterContinental Dubai Festival City • Al Murjan - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa
• Ewaan - The Palace Downtown Dubai • Imperium - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Flow Kitchen - Fairmont The Palm • Sloane’s - Grosvenor House Dubai • Kitchen6 - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Horizon - Amwaj Rotana • Nine7One - The Oberoi Dubai • The Talk Restaurant - Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Residence • Brasserie 2.0 - Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa • Epicure - Melia Desert Palm Dubai • Yalumba - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • GBR – Dukes Dubai fact magazine
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Al Fresco Dining • Fish Beach Taverna - Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Cove Beach - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • 101 Dining Lounge and Bar One&Only The Palm • Plaj - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Wavebreaker - Hilton Dubai Jumeirah • Eauzone - One&Only Royal Mirage • Breeze Beach Grill - Vista Mare The Palm Dubai Resort • The Beach House - Anantara The Palm Dubai • Palm Grill - The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Jumeirah Beach Residence • Shades – Address Dubai Marina • BHAR – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • Méridien Village Terrace - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
Family Friendly • Kitchen6 - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • The Lime Tree Café & Kitchen Various location • Gourmet By Kcal - Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Jones The Grocer - Various location • Al Bahou - Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai • Rainforest Café - Dubai Mall • Carluccio’s - Various Location • Book Munch - Wasl Square Al Safa • West 14th - Dukes Dubai • Bystro Café - Sheikh Zayed Road • Maison Mathis - Arabian Ranches • Reform Social & Grill - The Lakes
Bar • Lock, Stock & Barrel - Grand Millennium Dubai • Iris Dubai - The Oberoi Dubai • Indie Restaurant & Lounge - DIFC • Trader Vic’s - Madinat Jumeirah • Cargo - Pier7 • Mahiki - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Hendricks Bar - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Tribeca Kitchen & Bar - JA Ocean View Hotel 62
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• Warehouse - Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Brunswick Sports Club - Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates • Copper Dog - Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Dubai • The Backyard - Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay • Nezesaussi Grill – Address Dubai Marina • Dukes Bar – Dukes Dubai • Poppy by David Myers – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • The Lounge – Address Boulevard
Lounge • Sho Cho - Dubai Marine Beach Resort • Downtown Toko - Vida Downtown Hotel • 40 kong - The H Hotel, Dubai • Pure Sky Lounge - Hilton Dubai Jumeirah • Look Up Rooftop Bar - La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk • Q’s Bar and Lounge - Palazzo Versace Dubai • Siddharta Lounge By Buddha Bar Grosvenor House Dubai • Karma Café - Souk Al Bahar • Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge Fairmont Hotel • Treehouse - Taj Dubai • Grapeskin – La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk
Pub • Bridgewater Tavern - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
• The Lion by Nick and Scott - The H Dubai • The Tap House - Club Vista Mare Palm Jumeirah • D&A Restaurant & Bar - Jumeirah Beach hotel • Double Decker - Roda Al Murooj • Belgian Beer Café - Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City • The Irish Village - Gahroud • The Dubliner’s - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • The Eloquent Elephant - Taj Dubai • JB’s Gastropub - Amwaj Rotana • Mc Gettigan’s – JLT • Nelson’s – Media Rotana Dubai
Friday Brunch • Nobu – Atlantis The Palm • Jumeirah Al Qasr Brunch - Madinat Jumeirah • Traiteur - Park Hyatt Dubai • Play Restaurant & Lounge - The H Dubai • Café Belge - The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Anantara Friday Brunch – Anantara The Palm Dubai • Yalumba - Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Caravan - The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Jumeirah Beach Residence • The Rib Room - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Coya - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Marina Social - InterContinental Dubai Marina • Feast - Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai • Nezesaussi Grill Dubai – Address Dubai Marina • Le Grand Brunch – Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach • Bleau Blanc by David Myers – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • Asia Asia – Pier 7 • Toro + Ko – City Walk • GBR Best Dressed Brunch – Dukes Dubai
Saturday Brunch • Turkish Brunch - Rixos The Palm Dubai • Bushman’s Lazy Lunch - Anantara The Palm Dubai
FACT DINING AWARDS •
• STK Dubai - The Walk, Rixos Premium • Ninive - Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Morimoto - Renaissance Downtown • Galvin Dubai - City Walk • Izu Barsserie - City Walk • Flamingo Room by Tashas - Jumeirah Al Naseem • Little Miss India - Fairmont The Palm • Kohantei - Dubai Opera • The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri DIFC • Pierre’s Bistro & Bar- InterContinental Dubai Festival City • Brasserie du Park – Park Hyatt Dubai • Hotel Cartagena – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • The Restaurant – Address Downtown
• Imperium Jazz Brunch - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • Palm Grill - The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Jumeirah Beach Residence • La Tavolata-Bussola - The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi • Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE - Golden Tulip al Jazira Hotels and Resort • Saturdaze at Vida - Vida Dowtown Dubai • Saturday Brunch at Latitude Jumeirah Beach hotel • Social Saturdays - Mint Leaf of London Dubai • Geales – Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa • Lazy Grazing Feast at Graze – La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk
Newcomer - Casual Dining
Family Brunch • Family Friday Brunch - Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham • Boulevard Kitchen - Manzil Downtown Dubai • Al Forsan - Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa • Le Grand - Sofitel Dubai JBR • Fumé - Pier 7 • Suq - Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Fork & Cork - Anantara The Palm Dubai • Superheroes Brunch The Address Dubai Marina • Bubbalicious - The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Beachcombers - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Farriers - The Meydan Hotel • Flow Kitchen - Fairmont The Palm • Al Maeda – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai • Pirates and Mermaids – The Address Dubai Marina • West 14th – Dukes Dubai • BiCE – Hilton Dubai Jumeirah
• Q43 - Media One Hotel • Wanderlust Brunch - JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Zero Gravity - Dubai Marina • Candypants XL Dubai - The Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection • The Hive at Warehouse - Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Elemental - The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort • Indie Restaurant & Lounge - DIFC • Waka – The Oberoi Dubai
Party Brunch
Newcomer - Fine Dining
• Lucky Voice Dubai - The Grand Millennium Hotel • We Brunch at Accent InterContinental Dubai Marina
• Crazy Fish Dubai - Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC, • Scalini Dubai - Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach Road
• Asia de Cuba - The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Luchador - Aloft Palm Jumeirah, Dubai • Beefbar - DIFC • BB Dining - DIFC • Masti - La Mer, Jumeirah 1 • Soho Garden - Nad Al Sheba • Trader Vic’s - Hilton Dubai Jumeirah • Via Vita - JLT • Sean Connolly - Dubai Opera • Axe House - JLT • Morgan’s Gastropub – Al Bandar Rotana • K’NOON Restaurant & Café – Business Bay • Maison Rouge – Conrad Dubai • Pizza Express Live Doubletree by Hilton, Business Bay • The Blacksmith – Wyndham Dubai Marina Hotel • Gusto Italian Restaurant – Al Bandar Rotana • The Canteen – Aloft City Centre Deira, Dubai
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• SOCIETY
#L’INTERDIT #GIVENCHY #THE #FORBIDDEN #PARTY Givenchy Parfums celebrated the launch of the new feminine fragrance, L’Interdit on October 10, at The Hatch on Queen Elizabeth II in Dubai. Givenchy Parfums hosted the spectacular party, inviting guests to discover the frisson of freedom. The who’s who of Dubai’s social scene attended the party where throughout the evening they enjoyed fun and thrilling experiences – as well as impressive food and beats. L’INTERDIT Eau de Parfum is a tribute to bold femininity. Forbid yourself nothing. Allow no rules. An invitation to defy convention and embrace your singularity. A white floral exalted with a dark accord. The white notes - orange blossom, jasmine and tuberose - are interlaced with darker more mysterious notes of vetiver and patchouli. A generous intense brightness that isn’t afraid of subversion.
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CITY RIDES •
ATTITUDE AND ADVENTURE
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• CITY RIDES
Words like innovative, intelligent, exciting, powerful and luxurious come to mind when describing the beast that is the new Nissan Patrol V6. Ready to take on any terrain for every kind of journey, FACT takes the car deep into the UAE desert to put its performance and prowess to the test…
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ou can’t drive five minutes down any UAE road without seeing a Nissan Patrol. It’s no secret that the giant, four-wheel drive SUV has gained popularity with drivers in the Gulf region, and it’s easy to see why the people have developed such a bond with this model. This is the car that, dare we say it, has it all; space is no issue, technology is cutting edge, performance is powerful, and reliability on all terrains is exceptional. It’s no wonder that the Nissan Patrol has become an inseparable part of the social and cultural fabric of Arabia. From adventure to luxury and family life to business, whatever it is that you’re looking to conquer, the new Nissan Patrol V6 will take you there. We had high expectations for the Nissan Patrol V6 and from the moment this car was dropped off to us – it was both like driving a smooth charmer with the force of a monster. Tough on the outside and welcoming on the inside, the car’s Intelligent 4x4 system allowed us to effortlessly switch between sand, on-road, snow (not tried for obvious reasons) and rock drive modes. On-road keeps things gliding as efficiently as can be for day-to-day driving, especially if you’re cruising down the E11 between the Emirates. What impressed us the most is the Patrol’s remarkable capability in sand mode, which enables you to drive safely, quickly and skillfully in a desert environment and, in fact, on the rolling dunes. If you’re comfortable enough to do so, just like the professional rally drivers and those who take herds of tourists on their chosen dune bashing escapades, then you’re going to feel right at home in the Nissan Patrol V6, especially in the desert. One of the toughest aspects of driving in the desert is the fear of getting stuck. Not in the Patrol. The car’s Rear Differential Lock allows you to pull out of mud or loose sand easily by distributing torque evenly to the rear wheels. To top that off, and with potential winter rains forecast, the driving force transferred by the Active Brake Limited Slip from a slipping wheel to a wheel with more traction is amplified by Helical LSD. In the Patrol, you can start safely and smoothly even on slippery slopes or roads, and drive powerfully in style. As if Nissan hasn’t been breaking enough records, in a world-first, the new Patrol employs the advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control System with 4-wheel independent suspension. rugged and sandy terrain, while delivering a comfortable ride in the city too. It helps that the Nissan Patrol V6 is armed with an array of new and existing technologies that make every trip exceptional for the new-age driver. The power-folding outside mirrors with reverse
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synchronisation and the LED puddle lamp set the tone at the very outset. Inside the cockpit, it’s equipped with a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and Navigation System synchronised with Nissan Intelligent Key and a Push Button ignition. We’ve all been on Sheikh Zayed Road at peak time when traffic is unpredictable – it slows down, there’s congestion, it picks back up, only to then slow down instantly and have you stuck at an exit for what seems like days. The Nissan Patrol V6’s Intelligent Cruise Control slows your vehicle to maintain the desired distance between you and slow traffic, and re-accelerates to your preset speed and distance as the traffic flow picks up. The Intelligent Distance Control helps the driver release the throttle and applies the brakes as needed in slowing traffic – making wait time on the roads a complete breeze. The Intelligent Around View Monitor uses four cameras; the monitor displays a bird’s eye view of the vehicle to help you park the Patrol in even the tightest spots. With a parking assist guide displayed on the monitor, supported by Back up Collision Intervention, any moving object is detected from behind the vehicle. Off-road Monitor is another Nissan first, as it provides real-time information such as tyre conditions - steer angle, slip, pressure - and compass, to ensure you’re always in control. When it comes to safety, the Patrol is something else in comparison to many other SUVs we’ve tested. It incorporates the most advanced Nissan Intelligent Mobility features such as the world-renowned Safety Shield concept that ‘vehicles help protect people’. The revised brake system, along with state-ofthe-art safety technologies makes it one of the safest-ever SUVs in its class, promising a trustworthy driving environment. Forward Collision Warning uses the system’s laser range finder, it alerts the driver of a potential collision by providing a visual and audible warning, which is just as smart as both the Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention and the Intelligent Lane Intervention. The first uses sensors to alert you to vehicles detected in your blind spots and helps you avoid them if your vehicle approaches the lane markers, whilst the latter helps avoid unintended lane departure in bringing the vehicle back to the lane by applying the brakes.
CITY RIDES •
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• CITY RIDES
GO: VISIT WWW.NISSAN-ME.COM TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE, FOR PRICES AND MORE INFORMATION.
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CITY RIDES •
Other Safety Features like the 6 SRS Airbag System, Front Seatbelt Pretensioners and Load Limiters, Crash-sensitive Door Unlock, Active Head Restraints and Automated Hazard Warning Signal all add to the benefits of purchasing a Nissan Patrol V6. Though the car’s hunky body and innovative tech ticks all the right boxes, let’s talk about what awaits drivers on the inside. A warm glow of light welcomes you as you approach and step inside the Patrol , sinking into fine-textured, soft leather seats that are fitted with power and memory functions. Elegant wooden panels and chrome trims make you feel even more at ease. We reveled in using the class-leading Navigation System which features a high-resolution 8-inch ITGEN5 screen with multi- touch gesture function. From here, you can really customise the controls to suit your own driving style. Get all the information you need through the Icon-based menu including Climate Control settings, audio source, voice recognition functions and more. Much to the joy of passengers, there is Multi-Screen Rear Entertainment with 8-inch QHD monitors for 2nd row passengers, which can be connected to DVD and game player via HDMI and USB portals, and also comes with two sets of wireless headphones and a remote control. The 13-speaker Bose 2-channel Premium Sound System includes 2 subwoofers, AM/FM radio, single in-dash CD/DVD player with MP3 playback capability, and speed-sensitive volume control - entertainment overload! Of course, one of the main reasons why so many people invest in the Patrol, is its ability to accommodate large families as well as all their luggage. The interior space, filled with premium comfort, ensures that you and your family always travel first-class, while offering plenty of storage ideas to carry your favourite things and essentials along. Segment-leading Rear Luggage Space is created by three rows of luxurious-than-ever versatile seats with eight different seating/ cargo configurations. There’s a Reversible Open-type Cool-box which can be opened from both 1st and 2nd row seats to access the six 600ml drink bottles inside - the largest capacity in its class. Third Row Power Seating optimises trunk space by adjusting the 3rd row seats with the push of a button – no need to worry about packing too much. Plus, Climatecontrolled Front Seats circulate cool or warm air through the driver’s or front passenger’s seatbacks and bottom cushions, making the car as cool as a cucumber on hot UAE days! It’s hard to stop talking about the Nissan Patrol V6; there’s too many features to this car that are just MADE for the Gulf. You can drive with the same ease and confidence wherever you go – be that all the way to the top of Jebel Jais Mountain or a weekend escape to Qasr Al Sarab – this is a grand car made for bold, powerful expressions. There’s no doubt, that like us, you’ll find every journey in the Patrol to be as enjoyable as the previous one. ✤ fact magazine
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LEGENDARY DRIVING
Nissan has expanded the iconic Patrol Safari range with the introduction of three exciting new editions. Exclusively developed for and available to customers in the Middle East, these cars are inspired by and named after two of the most iconic animals to inhabit the desert sands and skies of the region, the majestic soaring Falcon and fleet-footed Gazelle.
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n the rolling dunes of Ras Al Khaimah, the Nissan Patrol Safari range was revealed and brought out to play for an exclusive gathering of media and industry pros. The Patrol Safari range has a long-standing heritage in the Middle East. With its rugged exterior good-looks, and superb off-roading capabilities that can conquer any terrain, the car has gained legendary status in the popular culture of the region. The introduction of the three new editions, the Patrol Falcon, Gazelle and Gazelle X, are set to continue the car’s proud legacy. Considered to be one of the only true all-terrain vehicles of all times, the Patrol Safari’s popularity is continuing to grow in the Middle East. In the first half of Nissan Middle East’s financial year (April – September 2018) sales increase recorded a 30 per cent rise, demonstrating that the Patrol Safari continues to impress with its inherent ruggedness, durability, and ability to cope with the extremes of the varied terrains and temperatures that are prevalent in the region. Kalyana Sivagnanam, Regional Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Nissan AMI and President of Nissan Middle East, said: “The Middle East inspired the very creation of the Patrol Safari range, and it has an enduring popularity in the region, amongst Gulf nationals and expats alike. “At Nissan we understand the importance of the Patrol Safari to the people of the Gulf, and in response to popular demand, we have launched these three editions that are exclusive to the region,” he added. “We are confident that the launch of the Patrol Falcon, Gazelle and Gazelle X will further cement the car’s status as the all-conquering, off-roading vehicle of choice for desert-lovers in the Middle East.” With its impressive styling and richly appointed interior, the Nissan Patrol Falcon is certain to turn heads both on and off the road. As comfortable navigating the urban jungle as tackling the challenges of desert driving, this multi-terrain vehicle transcends expectations of a 4WD car. Drawing inspiration from the fleet-footed gazelle, master of swiftly maneuvering through multiple terrains, the Nissan Patrol Gazelle Edition is the ultimate urban 4WD. Improved suspension and new additions have boosted performance, elevating the vehicle over and above a regular off-roader. Taking it one step further the Patrol Gazelle-X features enhanced functions and capabilities. The definitive off-roader, Gazelle-X has been designed to dominate the world of desert driving. Also, now available across the Gulf is a new manual variation of the Super Safari model. ✤
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GO: THE NISSAN PATROL FALCON, GAZELLE AND GAZELLE-X EDITIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT NISSAN DEALERS ACROSS THE REGION. PRICES VARY ACCORDING TO MARKET, VISIT YOUR LOCAL NISSAN DEALER FOR MORE INFORMATION.
CITY RIDES •
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• PLUGGED IN
APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR NOVEMBER…
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Tasty
Foxit Mobile PDF
Turn your smartphone into a handy digital cookbook with Buzzfeed’s Tasty app! The app lets you choose from a number of short, simple and delicious recipes with accompanying videos providing fun visual how-tos. The search tool lets you discover recipes that are just right for a certain ingredient, cuisine or social occasion from a library of over 3000 delicacies. Use the filters to narrow down your search to vegan, gluten-free as well as other specialised recipes. Cooking has never been easier!
Read documents on the go with Foxit Mobile PDF! An amazing choice for a PDF reader app, it handles normal and password protected PDFs with support for document and user bookmarks. The annotation options let you highlight, underline or strike through text, while you can also add sticky notes or even draw freehand on the document. Its variety of navigation, annotation and cloud storage functions make it the perfect tool for some effortless reading.
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PLUGGED IN •
ZOOM INTO ZOEMINI! Unleash your creativity and make endless memories with the new Canon Zoemini, a lightweight, pocket size and portable photo printer, made for all your insta shots!
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he Canon Zoemini lets you enjoy personalised photos wherever the moment takes you. Featuring ZINK (zero ink) technology, the photo printer is the perfect accessory for anyone who enjoys printing and sharing special moments with friends and family. Inspiring imagination and visual storytelling, the Canon Zoemini brings back the nostalgic joy of physically printed images. Fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand, it lets you print out personalised 2x3 inch (5x7.6cm) photos, straight from a mobile phone, tablet or social media apps. Taking convenience to the maximum, the Canon Zoemini connects seamlessly to the Canon Mini Print app (ios and Android) via Bluetooth for instant printing of photos and social media snaps in a matter of seconds. In addition to Instagram and Facebook, the Canon Mini Print app also lets you connect with Google Photos and Dropbox, so that you can print out pictures while out and about. How handy is that? With the festive season just around the corner, the Canon Zoemini’s peel-and-stick photo feature is all you need to make your holidays a whole lot more fun. Spruce up everyday items such as laptops, mobile covers, bags, mirrors, bedroom wallsthe options are endless! The Canon Print app also features a tiling function that enables the creation of larger posters or images
made up of four or nine prints, as well as over ten unique collage templates that prints a 2x3 inch photo. From retro selfies to animal filters, the printer gives you the ability to customise and instantly print out your treasured moments. But what makes this accessory truly special is its innovative ZINK technology. Running on zero ink, the portable printer is powered by a rechargeable battery and comes with a starter pack of 10 x Canon ZINK photo paper, with additional paper available for purchase in packs of 20 or 50. Apart from giving us some amazing features, the compact and sleek device also comes in a choice of three enticing and distinctive colours- Rose Gold/White, White/ Silver and Black/Slate Grey. If you’re someone who loves instant camera photos but don’t want to carry around a bulky camera, the Canon Zoemini should be right up your alley. From a rechargeable battery and tearproof pictures to being extremely portable, this is definitely one of the best photo printers out in the market right now. We won’t stop playing with it anytime soon! ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.CANON-ME.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• SOCIETY
#WOMEN’SECRET #TURNS #25 The pretty, comfortable and sexy lingerie brand, women’secret, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The celebrations kicked off with the reveal of their Pretty, Comfortable and Sexy Collections. The ‘Pretty Collection’ that is currently in store embodies elegant pyjama sets in a combination of prints and plains. The collection includes animal prints, floral prints and tropical prints. It has something to suit everyone’s mood, whether it’s their wild side, pretty side or the fashionista in them. Keeping it classy, the pretty collection, holds its loyalty to the classic pjs, robes and nightgowns for a more relaxed and minimalistic look. To show off your love for animations and comics - the ‘Comfortable Collection’ hosts your favourite cartoons characters like Beauty & the Beast, Snoopy and Pink Panther. Awaken your inner goddess with the luxurious ‘Sense Collection’. The collection is made from delicate lace, rich satin and sheer fabrics which are sure to enhance your feminine flair.
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FASHION FOCUS •
MOVIN’ ON UP:
MANGO AW’18 An ensemble campaign featuring Adrien Brody, Amber Valletta, Carolyn Murphy and Adwoa Aboah, together with the Sorrenti family and friends of the brand. Mango’s new Autumn/Winter 2018 campaign reflects the personal view of photographer, Mario Sorrenti, who captures intimate moments of the day-to-day lives of protagonists.
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• FASHION FOCUS
Mario Sorrenti’s project for the brand expresses a fraternal message, focusing on the personal ties and close relationships that Sorrenti has with a diverse group of people and with Mango, creating one big family. The children of Mario Sorrenti, his sister Vanina, his daughter and her husband feature in the campaign. Adrien Brody, ambassador of the men’s line, appears in the campaign alongside his dog, animals being his greatest passion. The activist and model Adwoa Aboah, together with her sister, Kesewa and her cousin, Aleqya also symbolise this family message. What may be the Mango campaign with the largest number of protagonists also features another two internationally famous models and close friends, Amber Valletta and Carolyn Murphy. Skate legend Steve Olson and his son Alex, the artist Langley Fox and the famous stylist, Zoe Bedeaux and Helena Tejedor, also join a cast which embodies diversity as a reflection of the society we live in. The legendary brand, Primal Scream provide the soundtrack to the campaign video with the song, Movin’ On Up. The new Autumn Winter ’18 collection represents a clear shift in garment design: an evolution towards a contemporary aesthetic, defined by high quality fabrics and a clear commitment to timeless garments free of conventionalisms. The offering also includes 70’s inspired animal print influences, with centre stage being given to an eclectic range of colours and volumes that are prevalent across the styling, especially in chunky-knot garments, long-sleeved and round-neck pieces. Similarly, denim has evolved towards a more refined look with details on the stitching of each piece. Also, 70’s reminiscences influence the men’s collection offering, especially in the ochre hued colour palette in suits and outerwear. Corduroy becomes a key fabrication, as does leather in double-faced jackets and coats for elegant, casual looks. Chunky-knit garments with uniform details such as flecks, braid reliefs or diamond motifs add layers of texture to a colour palette dominated by grey, stone and brown hues. Accessories stand out with wool ties, scarves and knitwear pieces with paisley prints rich in detail. ✤ 76
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FASHION FOCUS •
GO: VISIT WWW.MANGO.COM FOR MORE INFO. fact magazine
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SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM MANGO’S A/W 2018 COLLECTION FOR HER
FOR HIM
THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN MANGO STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 78
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For the culture-savvy in Dubai
NOVEMBER EDITION AVAILABLE NOW on issuu.com/factmagazine fact magazine
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• BEAUTY BOX
Beauty Checklist MORE TOP PICKS FROM OUR BEAUTY GURU FOR WHAT YOU NEED TO USE THIS MONTH!
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Mont Blanc LADY EMBLEM ELIXIR EDP Welcome the warmer weather with a floral fragrance born out of the essence of rose. Lady Emblem Elixir EDP exudes sophistication and femininity. The top notes are a shining blend of mesmerising sake notes, sparkling pink pepper and juicy pink grapefruit. While the heart of jasmine notes and precious fresh petal Rose Essential make for a dazzling signature.
Benefit Cosmetics BROW CONTOUR PRO
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Do your brows like a pro! The multi-tasking brow pencil features a lighter brow shade, deeper brow shade, edge definer and arch highlighter to create clean, shaped brows with depth and dimension. The blendable and 24hour waterproof formula is available in 5 shades for a wide range of hair colours and skin tones.
Biore BAKING SODA SCRUB
An easy-to-use, powderto-foam formula, this is definitely our favourite cleanser at the moment! The concentrated powder scrub gently cleanses pores 2.5x better versus a basic cleanser, while exfoliating without over scrubbing. It leaves your skin feeling smoother and softer with visibly tighter pores after just one use!
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Sephora SUPERMASK- THE MUD MASK Take your skincare routine to the next level! Enriched with mineral clay, the two-part sheet mask works to mattify, balance and remineralise the skin. Inspired by Korean beauty secrets, the mud formula gets to work in 15 minutes absorbing sebum and working wonders on your skin, while creating a clearer and perfectly matte-looking complexion.
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Smashbox Cosmetics COVER SHOT EYE PALETTES
Unleash your creativity with endless looks! The pigment-packed, curated shadow palettes let you create bold and intense looks with no-fuss neutrals, powdery pastels and major metals. The silky, one-swipe formula delivers intense pigment payoff, superior blendability and a mix of creamy textures and ultra-fierce finishes.
Becca ULTIMATE COVERAGE FOUNDATION
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Get instantly flawless skin with Becca’s Ultimate Coverage Foundation! A fullcoverage, water-resistant foundation with 24-hour wear, it effortlessly covers imperfections, redness, hyperpigmentation and uneven texture. Enriched with intense pigments and water to achieve weightless coverage, the full-coverage formula gives you a natural finish that lasts all day. Great for all skin tones and types!
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GROOMING BOX •
Grooming Box GENTS, THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO GET YOUR HANDS ON TO UP THE REGIME!
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Aesop
Oil Free Facial Hydrating Serum
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Keep your skin healthy and hydrated! Enriched with soothing aloe vera combined with balancing Ylang, it delivers effective hydration without clogging pores. Ideal for daily use, the nourishing formula is readily absorbed and leaves your skin feeling smooth, soft and shine-free. Perfect for combination, oily or sensitive skin!
Rituals BLEU BYZANTIN
An aquatic fragrance that echoes the drifting aromas of the bustling harbour life in ancient Byzantium, Rituals’ newest scent will have you feeling fresh all day long! East meets West when cool mint water is layered with fresh notes of blue juniper berries and the freshness of pine wood. While the essential oil from the berries produces a rich aroma with a subtle fruity balsamic backnote.
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Lancer Skincare CAVIAR LIME ACID PEEL
Give your skin some much-needed TLC. Dr. Lancer’s most powerful solution for dull, stressed skin, this advanced peel is formulated with 10% Glycolic Acid and Caviar Lime. Enriched with brightening Phytic Acid, pineapple and papaya fruit as well as stabilized retinol, it removes surface cells to improve the look of pores and skin tone.
Malin+Goetz MOISTURIZING SHAMPOO
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With the winter season upon us, breathe new life into dry and damaged hair! Formulated with a unique combination of amino acid-based cleansers, panthenol and natural plant extracts, the rich and creamy shampoo deeply cleanses and weightlessly hydrates. The subtle neroli and basil scent is a definite plus!
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Body Boom TOBACCO AND COOL APPLE SCRUB Scrub dry and dull skin away. Created from the finest coffee and a unique selection of natural ingredients including Argan, Macadamia and Almond oils, it helps moisturise and smooth your complexion. The brown sugar and Himalayan salt exfoliate and cleanse your skin, while Vitamin E slows downs the aging process.
Redken 3-IN-1 SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER AND BODY WASH
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Cut down your time in the shower with this product! Formulated with malt to strengthen and nourish hair, it cleanses and conditions hair and washes body for freshness from head to toe. The only product you need in the shower, it provides hydration, softens skin and acts as a convenient all-in-one product that is great for the gym or travel!
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• HOME STYLE
WEDGWOOD: THE VIBRANCE COLLECTION Iconic English lifestyle brand, Wedgwood unveils Vibrance, a tableware and gift collection featuring designs directly inspired by the Wedgwood archive. Skillfully engaging a riot of colour with stylised florals and elegant gold, the collection represents the perfect fusion of style and functional design for the contemporary, bold consumer. Vibrance pays tribute to past, present and future expression through colourful tableware and beautiful, one-of-a-kind functional giftware. The collection’s aesthetic mixes floral design elements re-drawn and updated from Wedgwood’s impressive 250-year archive with modern, functional shapes to create timeless pieces for the contemporary home.
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INTERIOR TRENDS •
READING SANCTUARY: NAMSHI HOME Cosy up this season as Namshi introduces a collection of unique books and home essentials that are sure to transform your space into a warm and inviting sanctuary. Create your own escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some much needed quiet time – curl up with an interesting book in the comfort of your home and truly unwind this fall. Enhance your space with fluffy cushions, plush bed linen, elegant reading lamps, fragrant candles and a selection of super cute mugs for that perfect cuppa for a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. GO: VISIT WWW.NAMSHI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• SOCIETY
#EVE #PENTHOUSE #& #LOUNGE #OPENING Eve Penthouse & Lounge, Dubai’s inimitable rooftop venue where classic opulence and contemporary elegance combine to offer a diverse blend of cocktails and cosmopolitan bites, complemented by unrivalled views of the city, has something for everyone as it makes its grand entrance onto the city’s social scene. Eve’s grand reveal yesterday hosted the who’s who of the town for an unforgettable evening full of awe – inspiring entertainment, convivial conversation and culinary treasures. The uniquely magnificent venue combines the everyday allure of Eve’s Après with the irresistible temptation of themed Tuesday nights at Eve’s Diaries – all inspired by Eve, a wandering beauty whose Gatsby-esque mystique and decadent lifestyle ensure she’s always the source of intrigue.
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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •
MEXICAN FIESTA
When we think of Mexican food, we think of vibrant colours, fiery flavours and the most innovative ingredients – this is the cuisine of flamboyancy and we expect nothing but the most outrageous food and drinks concoctions. Our recent escapade to The Palm Jumeirah took us to the very trendy Aloft Palm Jumeirah and the hotel’s 11th floor to Luchador… fact magazine
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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT
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uchador is a venue that pays ode to Mexico’s palm-fringed beaches, infectious tunes, kaleidoscopic colours, and friendly natives. On the walls, you’ll find elaborate murals of figures inspired by Mexico’s famed wrestling sport Lucha Libre, and, to rightly put it, “instagrammable” signs, rainbow furniture (even the air con vents are different colours) and an outdoor terrace with the most gorgeous views of the Burj Al Arab and beyond. The roof cantina and lounge promises to serve authentic Mexican food with a modern touch using key ingredients, all imported from Mexico. On most evenings, the night crowds will be entertained by Luchador's live band, resident dj and friendly, interactive service. Atmosphere aside, we’re here for one thing; food, glorious food. The menu is packed with all the usual Mexican favourites; three types of guacamole – the Chilito is exceptional – a variety of ceviche, antojitos (translates to “little cravings”), tacos, mains, side dishes and desserts. If you don’t know where to begin, a short conversation with the staff about what your taste buds prefer will result in some great recommendations. Top of our list was ceviche; the Durazno, made up of tuna, apricot, leche de tigre (the citrus-based marinade used to cure the fish), and serrano chilli is an explosion of flavours unlike anything we’ve tried before. Subtle yet rich, we practically inhaled the chunks of tuna and scooped up the sauce until the very last drop. For something a little more out-of-the-box, go for the Habanero, a creative mix of octopus, char-grilled avocado, smoky habanero sauce and jicama (Mexican yam), it’s an unexpected blend of tastes that grows on us with each bite. The Chorizo Verde is heaven for anyone who loves all things cheesy. Pockets of tortilla neatly stuffed with corn fed chicken, beef green chorizo and mixed cheese – if this is what Mexican street food is all about, it’s on our bucket list. If there’s a group of you, we would highly recommend sampling as many of the tacos as possible. The Tacos De Pescado are the standout of them all – battered fish, crispy vegetables, roasted chilli mayo – the taste is in the texture and details. The Gringa De Trompo is sure to be a palate-pleaser at any table with a craving for good meat. Beefpastor, classic adobo sauce, onion, coriander, pineapple and cheese – if ever there was a perfectly-made taco, this is it. The Huitlacoche is a the coming together of corn truffle, mushrooms, truffle oil, rosemary mayo, and crispy zucchini – needless to say, a winning choice for any truffle fans out there. The
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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •
Tacos Dorados is Luchador’s answer to a taco gone 180! Braised lamb stuffed in a fried corn tortilla with sour cream, cotija cheese and lettuce – if ever there was to be a marriage of Mexican and Middle Eastern cooking methods and flavours, this dish would be it! Though we had to skip mains because, you know, dessert calls, there’s an extensive choice of seafood, meats and chicken to satisfy all! It would be a sin to not try the Churros. Possibly the most light, crispy dough sprinkled in cinnamon sugar, dipped in chocolate sauce, it’s the ideal ending to our Mexican feast. There’s also Tres Leches, Cajeta Brulee, Ice Creams and Sorbets, for anyone who wants to deviate from the dessert classic. Luchador is a flawless social destination – energetic surroundings, honest Mexican grub, fabulous views and efficient, personable service. If you find yourself on The Palm Jumeirah or with an appetite for enticing Mexican fare, this is the place to get your fix. ✤
GO: VISIT LUCHADOR AT ALOFT PALM JUMEIRAH. CALL (0)4 247 5550 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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• SOCIETY
#FENTY #BEAUTY #ARTISTRY #AND #BEAUTY #TALK #WITH #RIHANNA September was the month of Rihanna as the superstar made her way to Dubai for her first ever Fenty Beauty Artistry & Beauty Talk. The super successful event saw over 350 beauty lovers come together for this makeup class where Rihanna joined Priscilla Ono and Hector Espinal on stage, to share behind the scenes application techniques, tips and tricks. Guests enjoyed an intimate beauty experience, and departed with a gift bag full of the latest from the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna makeup line.
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FOODIE CORNER •
FRIDAY FEASTIN’
In a city swarming with weekend brunch options, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd of dining offers. To really stand out, you need quality, consistency and atmosphere to show guests that they’ve made the right Friday food choice. Enter Feast at the Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai and let the set up to do the talking...
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• FOODIE CORNER
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ptly dubbed the Feast Brunch, all the signs for what to expect at this mighty Friday event are in the name. Walk into a large, spacious venue that has a beautiful upscale market feel; the décor is elegance meets industrial and the seating areas are divided nicely to give each table ample room for comfort and the ease of reaching the food stations. The chic setting is further enhance by a number of different open kitchens, making you feel like you’re traversing the trendiest of places to choose your many courses (that’s right, we had third helpings of the silky Indian butter chicken and we don’t regret it!). There is a pretty outdoor area too, which will no doubt make for a great place to while away the afternoon hours when the winter weather truly kicks in. After being shown to our table, we wasted no time in hitting the food. It is, by far, the star of the show. Brunch at Feast is a medley of international cuisines served up through seven live cooking stations alongside signature dishes. We started off light (though not really) and stacked up on a mountain-high plate of fresh salads and cold cuts. The Beetroot Muhammara is particularly delicious, scooped up with some fluffy focaccia bread. Next, we’re in the mood for some goodies from the sea. You can pick an array of seafood from the ice display – we opted for some juicy shrimp, lobster and salmon – and have it cooked how you like it. Smoky flavours and a squeeze of lemon on top, and voila! You’ve got yourself a plate worthy of any seafood connoisseurs’ dream. Taking things up a notch, we take a stop at the Nacho Station. Generously-sized crispy tacos are filled with your filling of choice – there’s beef and vegetarian options, toped with fresh guacamole and cheese – it’s the perfect comfort snack before you decide to head for some hearty mains. Of course, the aromatic tastes of India draw us in and, surprisingly, aside from the evertempting Butter Chicken, it’s the vegetarian Rajma Masala (kidney beans curry) that acts as the most lip-licking winter warmer. With a helping of the biryani or steamed rice, you can’t go wrong with this reliably delightful, velvety dish. Now we move over to the Far East where traditional concoctions of Thai Vegetable Curry and mouthwatering Malaysian Beef Rendang have us saying “mmmh” simply for their lingering smell. Of course, here you’ll find a variety of hot and cold noodle dishes and sushi rolls too, bringing subtle tangs of Asian cooking to the forefront. One thing we’re beginning to notice is that even though Feast covers every food base, the quality
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of each cuisine doesn’t suffer. There are dedicated members of the culinary team, manning every station to make sure food is topped up and kept fresh at all times – it’s all about the details. The winning station for us had to be the carvery with lamb; roasts, Yorkshire pudding, potato gratin, piping steamed vegetables and all those feel-good foods that can make any weekend meal go from ok to amazing! There’s a homely feel as we navigate this area and pout ourselves some of the most palatepleasing Tomato Soup followed by a choice of meat cuts with gravy, veggies and gratin. It’s like a roast dinner – only on a Friday and you didn’t have to graft to make it all! Bonus. We’re rather impressed by the colourful dessert area which boasts every cake, tart and sweet treat under the sun as well as an ice cream and sorbet bar, crepe corner and the longest (and yummiest) Rocky Road we’ve ever seen. Try the Blackberry Sorbet – it will blow you away. To top off all the great food is not only the free flowing house beverages and bubbly but also dedicated mixology labs for the perfect mojitos and martinis for those who wish to quench their thirst. Kids are also well catered to with a choice of smaller eats and friendly activities to keep them occupied. But, most of all, we LOVED the energy of the live band. They were entertaining yet unobtrusive, and had everyone in a good mood with a diverse repertoire of songs. This is the kind of Friday Brunch that embodies the saying: Good Vibes Only! ✤
GO: FEAST BRUNCH IS PRICED AT AED325 WITH SOFT DRINKS; AED425 WITH HOUSE BEVERAGES; AND AED575 WITH SPARKLING DRINKS. CALL (0)4 503 4444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.
FOODIE CORNER •
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• ON THE MENU
ALL THINGS GREEK! Eat Greek Kouzina presents new tastes and exciting flavours to its illuminating menu. The talented culinary team, led by Greek Head Chef Theodore Rouvas, has taken familiar ingredients to present food in fresh unique ways. Enter the ultimate epicurean voyage…
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his popular homegrown concept welcomes guests to immerse themselves in authentic Greek cuisine at their prime locations. Situated at The Dubai Mall, Mall of The Emirates and JBR, the doors to its fourth branch in the UAE and their very first restaurant in Abu Dhabi, opened last year and has received prestigious accolades for Best Newcomer. Guests visiting one of its charming venues can feast on a variety of new delicious bites, starting with entrée Keftedakia - a Greek beef meatballs dish served with fresh pita bread. Other tasty main courses include Watermelon & Manouri Salad, Spanakopita (Spinach pie) and Tiropita (Cheese pie). The perfectly prepared Filetto Eat Greek, made with florina pepper coulis and lemon olive oil, also promises to be a hit with meat fans. Those with an appetite for seafood can savour the fresh catch of the day - Grilled Prawns or Grilled Octopus. The Seafood Giouvarlakia Avgolemono is a mouthful (literally) and a must
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try - a mixed seafood balls dish, slow braised with celery, carrot, saffron and fresh herbs, accompanied with lemon and egg sauce including sourdough bread. Argiris Tragoutsis, General Manager of Eat Greek Kouzina, Abu Dhabi, says: “After a trip to Greece this summer together with our Group Executive Chef, we got inspired to further boost our offerings and bring these tastes back to the UAE. “We decided to present a new selection of traditional Greek flavours with a contemporary twist that suits this market. Our new dishes are all about homemade seasonings and textures, it combines our love of blending fresh vegetables from the local market together with ingredients from the Greek farms – to create a delight for all the senses,” he adds. Designed to cater for all guests, the restaurant has introduced new vegetarian options to its menu featuring the Vegetarian Moussaka, which features oven baked layered potatoes, eggplant and zucchini in tomato sauce, topped with béchamel sauce. The main course can be ordered with sides
ON THE MENU •
such as the newly presented Oregano & Feta Fries, or Greek Style Lettuce Salad, served alongside freshly baked bread. To further boost the offering, specialties also include Soutzoukakia, Chicken Pastichada and Chicken Breast with Feta & Olives. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in Baklava Cheese Cake or Molten Chocolate Cake, which comes with a scoop of Madagascar vanilla ice cream. The capital’s Eat Greek Kouzina is the only licensed venue that serves a selection of signature grapes with the likes of Asyrtiko, Agiorgitiko and the best quality Greek hops and spirits including; Ouzo, Tsipouro and Masticha. To add some zest, Greektails are up for orders including Olympus, Athena and Tears of Chios. ✤
GO: FOLLOW @EATGREEKKOUZINA ON INSTAGRAM OR VISIT WWW.EATGREEKOUZINA. COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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• SOCIETY
#1847 #GROOMING #LOUNGE #OPENING #AT #DUBAI #MALL
Award-winning executive male grooming brand, 1847, welcomes distinguished gentlemen to its newest venue, now open at the renowned Dubai Mall. The famed grooming lounge is known widely across the Emirates for its traditional concept with a contemporary edge, making it the “go to” destination for men who like to take extra care of themselves. 1847 offers a portfolio of luxurious and essential services ranging from the classic haircuts to shaves, manicures to pedicures, as well as massages and facials. The brand believes that grooming is as essential for men as it is for women, and prides itself in providing the best top-notch service to every guest who graces the chair.
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SPA & WELLNESS •
NO
PAIN, GAIN!
If you’re someone whose beauty regime involves the regular trip to the salon for waxing, you’ll be pleased to know that Tips & Toes has introduced a new product that turns the saying “no pain, no gain” on its head! FACT explores… fact magazine
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• SPA & WELLNESS
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SPA & WELLNESS • body. For example, if you book a leg or arm wax, it’s likely to be the normal wax. We’re intrigued to get going and after a painless half hour of face threading (we’re told that film wax is a great option to remove facial hair too) we move onto the main event. Containing pure beeswax and date extract for soothing properties, the warm wax has the powerful ability to remove all types of hair with maximum comfort of the skin. This innovative wax causes no irritation and due to the carefully selected ingredients has a calming effect. We can attest to all of this. It’s light and breezy on the bikini line, and leaves us with smooth hair-free skin in mere seconds. On the underarms, it’s smooth, fast and surprisingly lightening – there’s no irritation and we’re already booking our next appointment on the way out. Now with 35 branches located across four emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tips & Toes is the UAE’s largest salon and spa chain. From employing the most talented technicians and therapists to providing ongoing training at its in-house training academies, Tips & Toes is committed to delivering five star service and spa treatments at prices that are accessible to all. Try out the film wax for yourself – you’ll be onboard in no time! ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.TIPSANDTOES.COM AND FOLLOW @TIPSANDTOESME ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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e will always have great things to say about Tips & Toes; every UAE branch that we’ve been into has impressed. Whether it’s for beauty, hair, nails, a massage, facial or other wellbeing service, this place is a one-stop shop for all your pampering needs. Now, the brand has decided to take things one step further, and staying strong to its promise of providing the most up-to-date, unique and clientpleasing products and techniques, Tips & Toes now offers the new Film Wax service – a stripless wax for a smoother, pain-free appointment. We visited the Al Barsha branch on a busy evening – the place was packed – but this is always a good sign – if it’s good enough for the variety of women that were sat here indulging in the treatment of their choice – then it’s definitely fine for us. We’re booked in for a full face threading and a film wax service of more sensitive areas including the underarms and bikini line. The new stripless waxing service from Tips & Toes offers less pain, softer regrowth and absolutely no burning – the gentle heat from the wax opens pores which allows the hair to slip out of the follicle after one application, so you can relax knowing you will be left with silky-smooth, beautiful skin without any eye-watering moments in the treatment room. Our therapist makes us feel incredibly comfortable and even explains the benefits of using film wax – please note that this type of wax is used only on the gentler, more sensitive areas on the fact magazine
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CITY INSIDER
Anastasia Costache Multi Property Director of PR and Marketing, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai & Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Tell us three things that set the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai apart from its competitors... Firstly, the size of the hotel sets it apart from all of the others in the city. With 1608 rooms, we always say that we are the only hotel in Dubai that can have 1000 people simultaneously dine, sleep and meet, meaning 3000 people with completely different requirements can be accommodated at the same time. Second, the F&B offering at our hotel is extensive. The JW Marriott Marquis is a dining destination on its own. With over 14 award-winning restaurants, from French, Italian and American to Japanese, Thai, Indian and even Peruvian – there is something for everyone. Last but certainly not least – is the service, we’re the tallest 5-star hotel in the world and all of the associates at our hotel take pride in what they do. Our team ensures to deliver a memorable experience for every guest, an experience that is authentic, crafted 98
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and intuitive. Our associates focus on anticipating each guest’s needs by cultivating truly enriching personalized experiences and this truly sets us apart. What are some of your favourite cultural hotspots in Dubai and why? I am a major foodie and generally eat out most days of the week. Whenever something new opens I try to be one of the first people to visit it. It’s important for us to be ahead of trends and monitor any new concepts in the city. I personally love DIFC, Alserkal Avenue, D3 and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. DIFC houses several of my favourite international restaurants, but more importantly some of city’s best art galleries! Similarly D3 is like the cool younger sister with trendy cafes and unique art installations. Alserkal is where I spend most of my weekends; I love the variety of healthy venues such as Wild & the Moon and the contemporary art scene there, especially
the focus on home-grown concepts. Al Fahidi is a great spot to bring visitors. I absolutely love taking guests to the Arabian Tea House for a delicious Emirati breakfast. Then touring the Dubai Museum, Coffee Museum and having tea on the roof of the MAKE Art Café. Followed by a small art tour in XVA Gallery. Share with us some of your professional goals for the rest of 2018… As the festive season is fast-approaching, we’re preparing all of the exciting campaigns and activities we have planned for November and December, from Thanksgiving to Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Despite the challenging market we’re currently in, we still need to ensure we entice our guests and keep them curious. We have quite a few very unique projects planned for next year and will now focus on finalising all of the activations needed to support this. Stay tuned!
Dubai’s Favorite Family Brunch! Every Friday from 1pm – 4.30pm
Join us for a fun family brunch where kids are covered with a large play area full of activities, including face painting, a movie corner, a PlayStation and Kid’s Cooking Classes. AED 300 inclusive of soft drinks AED 425 inclusive of house beverages and sparkling wine AED 150 for kids between 5-12 years old Kids below 5 are FREE!
Book Now T: +971 4 435 5577 dining@hiltonalhabtoorcity.com dubaialhabtoorcity.hilton.com
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A TASTE OF FRANCE IN THE HEART OF THE CITY DAILY AFTERNOON TEA 3pm - 6pm l AED 250 per couple MUSSELS MONDAYS 6pm - 11pm l AED 140 per person OHH LA LA TUESDAYS A steak & 3 glasses of red grape for ladies 6pm - 12am l AED 120 per person CHEESE FONDUE WEDNESDAYS 6pm - 11pm l AED 160 per couple BAKER’S BREAKFAST Fri - Sat: 8am - 1pm l AED 210 per coupl OPEN 24/7 For more information or to make a booking, please call +9714 414 3000 or visit jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
JWMarriottMarquisDubai |
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