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sur la terre | ramadan guide | editor’s letter
Editors Letter
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“ What you see k is see king you .”
’ve always been struck by that Rumi quotation. It’s a nice thought, that whatever your heart truly desires, whether it be true love, a better understanding of world politics, to feel less stressed, a Rolex...(I joke. I prefer vintage Omegas...) is actively trying to find you. In this month long meditation, where we are all encouraged to look within and try and grow spiritually, ecumenically, grammatically... To look back on past grievances and forgive, and to reassess your life, giving thanks for the many things you have to be grateful for, and thinking about what you can do to make your life better and how you can touch other people’s lives. Ramadan is a very special month in which everyone seems to be imbued with an inner light. Calmer and more peaceful, altruism is out in full force, with people helping their neighbours, giving generously to charity and becoming more gracious and humble.
at what special gifts you can buy for your loved ones, whether it be a designer shisha or a piece of jewellery that you can buy safe in the knowledge that all the profits go to charity. Speaking of charity, we look at some local ones that you may not be aware of and celebrate their hard work. We also talk to the aptly named Aiisha Ramadan about her new collection and look at the fashion choices you should be making in this month of cultural sensitivity. We also have Steven Paugh’s article about eco travel and learn that when it comes to environmentally friendly holidays, “glamping” is just the tip of the iceburg. Also, and some would say most importantly, we tell you where to go in Doha for the best Iftars and Suhours; because after a long day of fasting, and oh, it will be long, the best part of Ramadan is coming together with your friends and family and celebrating.
Our guide to Ramadan takes you through the cultural significance of the month, and The Edge’s star reporter Shehan Mashood ruminates on what the Holy Month means to him and we also look at some of the most beautiful mosques in the world. On the tangible side of things, we look
Ramadan Kareem! Laura Hamilton
Editor
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | contents
Contents CULTURE
HEALTH
BEAUTY
10 CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE.
26 HEALTH shouldn't be neglected
42 ARCHITECTURE. The most
We look at what Ramadan is all about.
during Ramadan. 30 SUHOUR. Where to go and what to eat! 36 FASHION. How to cover up. 38 INTERVIEW. Laura Hamilton speaks to fashion designer, Aiisha Ramadan.
beautiful mosques in the world. 45 EXPERIENCE. Shehan Mashood writes about his Ramadan. 49 TRAVEL. Steven Paugh looks at eco-travel. „
12 CHARITY. One of the most important parts of the Holy Month. 16 PHILANTHROPY. Giving is beautiful. 20 EID GIFTS.
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We look at all the best places to break your fast in our SUHOUR section.
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sur la terre | ramadan guide
c u lt u r a l s i g n i f i c a n c e
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SLT discovers why the holy month is important „
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | cultural significance
R a m adan k areem
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Taking place in the ninth month of the Islamic year, the calendar of which is based on the lunar chart, Ramadan marks the time when the first teachings of the Quran, Islam’s holy book of guidance, were officially revealed by God to the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). It is said that during his life, the Prophet underwent many spiritual journeys in an effort to fully receive these divine revelations. However, these soulful sojourns were not completed without the manifestation of bodily hardship, as the Prophet is said to have repeatedly put himself through physically taxing meditations on a weekly basis without much, if any, sustenance. Inspired by this devotion, and in an effort to cultivate, understand and appreciate their beliefs and temper their piety, Muslims undergo the fourth pillar, or
he Holy Month of Ramadan is probably the most important religious observance on the Islamic calendar. Yet, Ramadan’s true nature is still lost on much of the non-Muslim world. Through arguably no fault of their own, many people who stand outside the Islamic faith have a largely confused view of what Ramadan is, seeing it only as a time when Muslims take a month-long break from eating. But where did the celebration come from? What does it commemorate? What are the rules? And, with respect, why the fasting? Well, it all started hundreds of years ago, when, as Muslims believe, a miracle occurred. 10
tenet, of Islam during the month of Ramadan: fasting.
personal sphere of influence and as far into the wider world as possible. Qatar, particularly during this period, is one of the most charitable nations in the world. In fact, thanks to its unique growth in a time of economic turmoil, it is one of the only places where that charitable support continues to grow. The country is filled with many different philanthropic organisations that serve as perfect outlets for benevolent benefaction during this or any other season. Whether you are Muslim or not, the Holy Month of Ramadan could be just the motivation you need to get those humanitarian juices flowing.
This most prominent practice during Ramadan is not as structureless as some non-believers might imagine. The fasting begins at dawn, when, as the old Quranic saying goes, “the white thread becomes distinct from the black thread.” After the light of day splashes itself on the world and ingrains everything with its heat, the fast continues unabated until the completion of the fourth designated prayer of the day, Maghrib, which occurs at sunset. The Iftar meal, or the repast that breaks the fast, is well-known to most residents of the Gulf, as the locally sumptuous feast has become something of a highlight during the month. Even though these meals are delectable for everyone, it is the fasting and not the feasting which holds greater import for practicing Muslims. Of course, it is not simply abstaining from food, drink or smoking that makes Ramadan such an important holiday; instead, it is the humility through sacrifice that registers as a result. Devout Muslims are often inspired to read the Quran during the month, since it is the scripture’s revelation to man that the observance commemorates. Near the end of the month, at some point in the last ten days, is what is referred to as Laylat al-Qadr, or “The Night of Power,” which is considered the holiest night of the year. This is said to be the precise night when the Quran was officially revealed to the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). Prayer on this night is the equivalent of a thousand months of worship, hence its “powerful” title. Ramadan is finally completed on the first day of the following month when a new moon is seen in the sky. The festival of breaking the fast is called Eid al-Fitr, and is traditionally marked with donation of food to the poor, communal prayer and feasting with friends and family. This is a time for celebration, when most believers of Islam feel cleansed and more complete, with a soul awash with light and revelry, thanks not only to the prayers offered, but also to the sacrifices they have made. The Holy Month is a very complex period of devout introspection, fervent contemplation and deep prayer, punctuated and given greater gravitas by physical sacrifice. Ramadan is also a time when Muslims are equally encouraged to make a positive effect on the world around them, spreading peace, love and charity throughout their 11
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | charity
r a m adan charit y The holy month of Ramadan is a time for Muslims to fast, pray and bring peace both to themselves and to the outside world. It is a period of charity, giving and selflessness that is observed throughout the Islamic world, but there is no reason that its humanitarian message should be confined within the boundaries of one religion. This month is as good a time as any to tap into those Ramadan vibes and be good to each other. Act on the compulsion to help those in need and follow that urge to donate to one of the following worthwhile charities. After all, in this life, it is compassion that is the truest luxury.
Qatar Charity (QC) One of the most prominent charities in the region is also one of the largest and oldest in the Gulf. Qatar Charity (QC) has been an institution in the Middle East humanitarian world since 1992. As a non-governmental organisation, QC’s main focus domestically concerns needy families, women and children, with a keen emphasis on establishing and supporting education and culture. As a self-described Islamic charity, QC also grants what is known as a waqf, or a traditional Islamic religious endowment, which allocates donated money or property to a number of needy beneficiaries, including orphans, the elderly, divorcees, widows and poor students. Internationally, the charity boasts an impressive reach to over 40 countries throughout Africa, Asia and Europe, with offices not only in Qatar, but also in Palestine and Sudan. As a signatory and supporter of the Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent, QC also enjoys a special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council
(ECOSOC) and has been a strong partner with a number of international charities from Bosnia to Pakistan. With so many charities cropping up across the globe, it is difficult to know which ones to support. With QC, it is guaranteed that your charitable donations during the Ramadan season will go far, not only in the breadth of local and global distribution, but also in how much assistance they provide. For more information about QC, who they support and how to make a donation, visit their website at www.qcharity.org/ english
Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) Reach Out To Asia is probably Qatar’s most well-known charity. The brainchild of Qatar’s Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and chaired by Her Excellency, Sheikha Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, ROTA was created with one purpose in mind: to establish and maintain a quality education in developing and needy communities throughout Asia. ROTA was established after the World Education Forum in 2000, in which 164 countries met in 13
Dakar, Senegal to create the foundational guidelines that would lead to a greater increase and propagation of free, basic education and literacy throughout the world by 2015. As one can imagine, this is not easy work; particularly as their efforts spread across the continent and over a variety of different conflicts and issues. This work includes establishing schools and providing learning facilities for lesswealthy nations such as Nepal, where donated funds have gone to building safety structures and revitalising ailing school buildings, and
sur la terre | ramadan guide | charity
Cambodia, where ROTA has built a three-storey building with 24 classrooms and other necessary provisions. ROTA is also divested to helping those countries victimised by war and natural disaster by rebuilding a firm educational infrastructure and furnishing wanting institutions with any supplies they might require. Some of the beneficiaries of ROTA’s kind efforts in this regard have been Lebanon, Palestine and Pakistan. Of course, Qatar itself has benefitted from this work with a network of technologically and spiritually enhanced independent schools. ROTA relies heavily on the support of its donors and volunteers, who not only pitch in to help build and renew, but also foster a love and trust of education by communicating directly with local communities and student bodies. To learn more about the extensive reach of ROTA, visit www. reachouttoasia.org
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies The largest humanitarian network in the world reaches over 150 million people due to the kind hearts of its 13 million volunteers, dealing from everything from disaster to health emergencies, without discriminating
in order to foster a culture of peace. Almost every country in the world has a Red Cross or Red Crescent presence and Qatar’s Red Crescent Society focuses on providing relief to Syrian women in refugee camps in particular the Zaatari camp, whether it be by teaching them craft skills or providing a Youth Sports Programme for their children. The Qatar Red Crescent Society has also just started a Women’s Forum, which will aim to help women in Qatar through any difficulties and problems they might face; a worthy endeavour indeed. Time poor but otherwise wealthy women who would like to get involved, might like to consider joining The Tiffany Circle. Started in 2007 by the American Red Cross, the venture
Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS.)
encourages philanthropic women to use their money and influence to raise funds for the Red Cross and Red Crescent. In the first three years alone, 500 women joined the Tiffany Circle and raised over $19 million. Since then, Tiffany Circles all over the world have popped up, led by prominent women who want to give back and Qatar is the latest country to join the Circle. Named after the beautiful stained glass windows that were provided by Tiffany Studios in 1917 to the American Red Cross Headquarters, Tiffany & Co still continue to support the Red Cross and Red Crescent’s good deeds by gifting every member a Tiffany charm each year to commemorate and acknowledge their hard work. www.ifrc.org
Anyone who has spent time in Qatar will have noticed the vast population of neglected stray animals roaming the streets. Luckily, there is a growing movement to dispatch the old, archaic notion that these poor creatures are nothing more than a nuisance. The Qatar Animal Welfare Society, or QAWS is a small group of big-hearted people desperately working to change that idea. The seeds for QAWS. were first planted way back in May 2003, when an intrepid yet modest foundation of animal lovers recognised the need for a proper animal shelter. By the following year, the group had somehow managed to appeal to local businesses, garnering just enough community support to build a haven for suffering or ignored animals. The society not only makes life more comfortable for the cuddlier members of society, they also offer a host of great advice for current and future pet owners. QAWS makes every effort to heighten awareness of animal welfare, ensure a good life for our furry friends and to prevent their future mistreatment. Relying completely on donations and the tireless work of its volunteers, QAWS. is still waiting to be recognised as an official charitable organisation by governmental authorities. Unfortunately, animal welfare is still a very big, very real problem in Qatar. www.qaws.org
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | philanthropy
I n t h e l a p o f l u x u ry. . . Laura Hamilton explores the curious mix and finds luxury charity is in vogue. Giving back has never felt so good...
The door to Merci is deceptively innocuous... 16
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harity’s long history is peppered with iconic figures throughout time that have precedents which are hard to follow. Arguably the greatest example of these is Andrew Carnegie, the famous Scottish philanthropist who founded the first-ever public library in his native Dunfermline, before going on to establishing a further 2,509 such libraries in communities across the world. When he died in 1919, he had given away $350 million to his worthwhile cause. That’s a pretty hard act to follow. However, here is a new archetype for charity that advocates material awards; although it seems that luxury and charity are polar opposites, combining them can be mutually beneficial. After all, it is always nice to have a reminder of how generous you are. The go-to model for luxury charity is auctions, dinners, balls and designer collections, where high-profile personages raise awareness with their chequebooks. Charity auctions can raise huge amounts of money, as was evidenced one night in 2011, when Elizabeth Taylor auctioned off her treasure trove of jewels for a recordbreaking £74 million, benefitting her AIDS Foundation.
Scents by Annick Goutal, the late perfumer.
Leighton Meester, go to providing books for children in Brazil, safe drinking water in Uganda and coloured pencils for children in China.
Another thing that luxury brands are associated with is setting up their own charities and foundations, as well as creating special collections. Italian prima donna Donatella Versace, for example, teamed up with Chinese martial arts star Jet Li to start Versace One Foundation, which funds teachers and doctors to work in child centres in the Sichuan region of China, an area devastated by an earthquake in 2008. Versace enlisted the children to draw on canvas tote bags, which were then sold at the brand’s boutiques. The end profits of this admirable joint venture not only benefited the child centres in the region, but also the Starlight Children’s Foundation, a charity which works with seriously ill and injured children.
“This is not charity, this is work,” declares provocateur and fashion legend, Dame Vivienne Westwood about her recent collaboration with the Ethical Fashion Programme, which supports over 7,000 women in Africa. Using recycled materials, Westwood’s Ethical Fashion Africa collection is a series of bags made by women who want to improve their lives. The bags are bright and colourful, with avian-inspired designs and supportive slogans, such as “Do it yourself,” emblazoned on the entire collection. In a world of gender inequality, it is high-end moves from high-end individuals like this that may make all the difference in the world. To find out more about Westwood’s project, visit her website at www.viviennewestwood.co.uk.
On the other hand, Bulgari prefers to work with wellestablished charities, designing a silver and ceramic ring for UK charity Save the Children. Outwardly, these rings are nothing more than a stylish accessory, with the Bulgari brand engraved on the edge and the charity’s name on the inside. That way, the discretion of the charitable wearer remains intact under the façade of style. The profits from the ring, worn by the likes of Isabella Rossellini and
Merci Bernard and Marie-France Cohen set up their charity boutique in a converted factory in the Marais district of Paris in 2009 and have since acquired a cult following. After making a name and fortune for themselves in the fashion world, they wanted to give something back, which is why they named their new venture “thank you” in French. Inside, the interlinking loft-spaces 17
sur la terre | ramadan guide | philanthropy
comprise of a retail space and a bookstore, a florist and a corner devoted to Annick Goutal (late perfumer and Marie-France’s sister), where customers can buy perfume in minimalistic glass bottles or simply fill up their own flagons with their favourite scents. Merci has everything, from haberdashery to antiques. Of course, the main attraction is the apparel.
Fonderie 47's iconic cufflinks.
These stunning earrings look nothing like rifles!
Off the tourist track, it is almost a Parisian secret. Designers, artists, musicians, actors, stylists, authors and famous friends of the couple donated items, from their own collections or specifically crafted pieces and entire collections exclusively for the Parisian retail experiment, generously foregoing profits. The designers who have signed on to help Merci are diverse and eclectic, and range from Yves Saint Laurent to Acne. The Cohens regularly convince European luxury fashion houses like Montero, Italy’s most prestigious silk house, to collaborate with them and create one-off lines. This exclusivity means that the beautiful designer clothes, accessories and artwork that can be found in Merci are not only benefiting charity, but are completely unique. The profits go to a children’s charity in Madagascar, an area of Africa that Marie-France has often visited; her labour of love is helping impoverished girls so that they can get an education and have a career. You can find more information at www.merci-merci.com/
Philip Grangi designed these masculine rings.
the cufflinks, which have kept the serial number of the gun, there is no indication that this jewellery has been created from AK-47s, or was even upcycled at all. The lure of these luxury items is that it never advertises its humanitarian background and appears only as unusual and elegant pieces. The jewellery has a veneer of antiquarianism, like artefacts you might find in a museum, or bid on at an auction. The timeless pieces have the quality of an heirloom, whether it is the masculine elegance of the bespoke men’s rings, or the Greco-Roman edge to the earrings. Iten, who spawns mechanical luxury for gentleman, has created a limited and numbered series of cufflinks that can be transformed into a bracelet.
Rifles, revisited Of course, some luxury-based charities are not as uniform as setting up fashion houses or organising parties. Some set themselves apart from the usual dialogue with a bullet … literally. Luxury jewellery brand Fonderie 47 brings new meaning to the term “precious metal.” When Peter Thum and John Zapolski met at a TED conference, they decided to launch a hybrid business model to align their affinity for charity with good business. Devoted to removing AK-47 rifles from the black market in the Republic of Congo, they buy the rifles and fuse the steel with titanium, white and yellow gold and meld it into rare and stunning pieces of jewellery, upcycling the rifles to make art while subverting and diminishing the power of the weapons themselves. As Pablo Picasso said, “Every act of creation is first an act of destruction.” That is something the good people at Fonderie 47 have taken to heart.
Fonderie 47 holds a blueprint for sustainability in social businesses, using its idea of creative destruction to appease the desire for statement jewellery and aspiration towards charity. Thum wanted to create rare pieces that would inspire people, rather than cheap tokens of goodwill; to that end, the jewellery is sold at private events, and revenue is invested back into organisations to destroy arms in Africa. An earring can destroy 70 weapons, a ring 75 and a set of cufflinks 100. The revenue feeds into the Fonderie 47 Foundation, a charity which finances organisations like Mines Advisory Group to help demolish weapons for the Congo’s government. To cast your eye over more of Fonderie 47’s gorgeous jewellery, visit fonderie47.com
With the help of mechanical engineer Roland Iten and master jeweller Philip Grangi, the rogue weapons are transformed into luxurious cufflinks, earrings, pendants, and rings. Apart from 18
sur la terre | ramadan guide | eid gifts
a time for giving slt takes a look at what to get for someone who has everything for eid. As usual, our shopping list is "ridiculux" but with a charitable or Ramadan Twist.
Walking on Sunshine Roads may not be the first thing that leap to mind when considering the Holy Month of Ramadan, but in truth, safety on them is of paramount importance. We all know what hunger and irritability can do to a body, not to mention when that body is piloting a motorised means of conveyance alongside those of a similarly famished disposition. That, and the regular hairy experience of driving in the Gulf, is why we couldn’t be more excited about Solar Roadways. Powered - as the name subtly implies - by the sun, inventors Scott and Julie Brusaw’s durable brainchild soaks in three times as much energy as they use; a great stride forward for energy conservation. In return, these infinitely adaptable and dynamic roads put out a bevy of LED configurations, such that lanes can change with the push of a button, warn you of oncoming accidents and wildlife interlopers or even cater your front driveway to your every whim, be it for a football pitch or basketball court layout or much, much more. Given their ability to withstand both the great pressure of heavy cars, as well as environmental factors like snow and rain, these roads will also save countries hundreds of billions of dollars on roadwork, as well as saving lives. www.solarroadways.com
BORN to Act We here at Sur la Terre Arabia always enjoy a solid bit of crowdsourcing, particularly when it concerns luxury sustainability and especially during Ramadan! Like Kickstarter or any other likeminded site, BORN is a new crowd-funding venue, which will you will undoubtedly hear more about from us, as its raison d’être surrounds the creation of high fashion while simultaneously getting smaller brands off the ground. As we said, expect to see more about BORN in our pages and pixels soon! As a sort of intro, we’d like to highlight a great BORN project currently in the works. The “Time to Act” watch is a fantastic movement started in Marseille, France that will see myriad designers converge and create a series of watches, the funds from which will go toward the global eradication of polio. At the time of this writing, the team has reached its goal of over $27,000, which will go to Marc Alfieri’s flagship creation that will officially launch the series: the Polio Watch One. Don’t forget to continually check out the BORN website for more great “green” luxury projects; it’s the best way to allow your heart of gold to share its midas touch. www.born.com 20
sur la terre | ramadan guide | eid gifts
Pure Illumination It may not officially be a “festival of lights” per se, but being that it is celebrated with the dawn and dusk of each day, and remembering the lanterns that traditionally pepper its festivities, Ramadan is most definitely an “enlightening” experience. With that in mind, why not make sure your light is as pure and natural as humanly possible? M&J London is dedicated to doing just that. Not only are the company’s luxury candles a true litany of scent and sense, but every single element that goes into their rendering is meticulously ethically-sourced. This includes the packaging (which is produced and certified by the World Land Trust), the 100% rainforestsafe soya wax, the clean-burning essential oils, aroma compounds and lead-free wicks; even the glass into which each candle is hand-poured is made from 100% recycled European glass, and can be safely reused as a drinking tumbler. On top of everything, M&J has pledged that $1.70 from each large candle and $0.85 from each small candle sold will go to London-based charity, Eaves, which assists female victims of violence in the UK. Altogether and in every way, buying an M&J London candle this season will help you shed light throughout the world. www.mj-london.com
Smoke On The Water Fancy a quick shisha this Ramadan? You will when you see this racy shisha from Porsche Design. As part of the company’s World Collection, the extraordinary Porsche Design Shisha combines high-quality materials such as aluminium, stainless steel and glass with the timeless and unique design approach so inexorably linked with the luxury brand. Made in Germany, the pipe stands at a height of 55 centimetres and only shows a discreet branding on the aluminium top, while the long flexible tube is crafted from the company’s patented TecFlex material. Porsche Design is a luxury brand with a particular focus on technically inspired products and was established in 1972 by Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche himself. The brand has grown considerably since then and recently showed its heavyweight calibre when it opened its concession at the world's most famous corner shop, Harrods, where you can pick up one of these posh pipes for around $3,250. www.porsche-design.com 22
sur la terre | ramadan guide | eid gifts
Come All Ye Faithful One of the best parts of Eid is bearing gifts. but also embody the spirit of Ramadan. What better way to show your loved ones how Women can be decidedly picky about what much you care than by choosing something they decided to drape around their necks, special for them? However, it’s always tricky to but haute jewellery maison Messika has the find something that perfectly fits the situation, answer: The Faith Collection. Bling enough especially after the spiritual event of Ramadan. to suit the tastes of the region, but subtle SLT RamadanGuide Habib HalfPage.pdf 1 6/17/14 2:24 It has to be something luxurious and timeless, enough to PM not overpower your beauty, as per
Valerie Messika’s usual trademark, the design is centred around diamonds, fusing together both fashion and faith to create a beautiful series of jewellery that symbolise the strength of your faith as well as your dedication to fashion! www.messika.com
sur la terre | ramadan guide
h e a lt h | s u h o u r | s h i s h a
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SLT looks at the more tangible aspects of Ramadan „
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | health
T he F ast W ay T o R a m a d a n H e a lt h As the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches, Bahrain-based Nutritional Therapist, author and consultant speaker, Alia Almoayed, serves up a healthy dose of advice for tackling the after-dark feasting that follows the Sunset Prayer.
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There are several mistakes that people make when they fast, chief among which is overeating at Iftar, when breaking the fast. This often comes as a natural reaction to food deprivation. What often happens when we fast is that our metabolism slows down in an effort to conserve energy, which is our body’s natural survival mechanism. Our body doesn’t know that we are going to eat in a few hours, so it prepares for the worst: starvation. As a result, any food that enters the body after breaking the fast is more likely to be stored as fat for possible energy needs in the future, which may result in weight gain.
amadan is a time for introspection, the strengthening of one’s faith and, of course, fasting. While this is ultimately a spiritual aspect of the Holy Month, there are many healthbenefits to be drawn from our Ramadan abstinence. Besides religious reasons, and if done correctly, fasting can boost immunity, help digestion and add years to our lives by eliminating waste, revitalising the immune system and enabling the body to flush out toxins more efficiently. However, fasting is a very extreme method of detoxification and it is important that your body be prepared properly to eliminate the toxins effectively. When you are fasting, the body releases toxins from fat stores into the bloodstream; but, if the body doesn’t have enough antioxidants and enzymes to help flush them out, then the toxins can become more dangerous because they circulate in the bloodstream, affecting different organs and causing many side-effects from headaches to skin rashes.
Secondly, eating rich, fatty, sugary foods is a cultural habit that has shifted the focus of the month from ‘fasting’ to ‘eating’. For example, desserts play a very big role at Iftar, and they are often very rich in sugar and saturated fats. The combination of rich carbohydrate meals, fatty/sugary desserts, and the lack of fibre from salads and vegetables often adds to weight and fat stores and defies the whole purpose of detoxification.
To avoid this, it is so important that your diet is full of nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables and their juices. Also important for the detoxification process are green leafy salads, fibre from wholegrains, and water. Supplement this with a quality multivitamin/mineral to provide general support and a daily dose of 500-1000mg of Vitamin C. Ideally, this diet should be started a few days before Ramadan and then carried out during the rest of the month, after Iftar.
Also, because fasting can lead to low blood sugar, we often experience the symptoms of blood sugar imbalance, which include sweet cravings. That further contributes to weight gain as we give in to those cravings. That’s why balancing blood sugar is very important; it requires eating small, frequent meals after Iftar, avoiding sugary and refined foods, reducing stimulants (tea/coffee), and adding protein to every meal and snack.
Your lifestyle during Ramadan should also aid the body in its elimination processes. In addition to taking frequent naps and light exercise, it is important to steer away from environmental toxins such as smoking and pollution. These may burden the body further and slow down any benefits of your detoxification.
By following a few simple rules and guidelines, I can guarantee you will enjoy the healthiest of Holy Months and will feel fitter, rather than fatter, by the time Eid rolls around. 27
sur la terre | ramadan guide | health
Healthy Eating During Iftar After a whole day of fasting, it is important to have a small meal, eat slowly and to choose your foods carefully. l When it is time to break your fast, start by drinking a glass of pure room-temperature water. This aids in flushing out any toxins that have accumulated during the day. l Dates give a quick sugar rush to the body, which creates an energy boost and then a slump soon afterwards. To combat that, combine dates with raw nuts (like almonds or walnuts), which contain some protein and can slow the release of sugar into the blood. l Introduce solid foods gradually by limiting your portions. Eat foods at room temperature and resist the temptation to overeat. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly.
l Always add protein with your carbohydrate-rich meal in order to avoid an energy slump after eating. For example, if you eat rice, combine it with chicken or lentils for a balanced meal. l Drink water or sugar-free, fresh juices - which are diluted with 50% water - to minimise the effects of concentrated sugar entering the body. And try to drink either before or after the meal, not during. l Don’t forget to go easy on the sweets. Try to minimise or avoid your intake of fatty, sugary desserts and learn to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruits! Visit www.aliaalmoayed.com for more Ramadan health advice.
it is so important that your diet is full of nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables and their juices. Also important for the detoxification process are green leafy salads, fibre from wholegrains, and water. – Alia Almoayed
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | suhour
A Suhour to R emember In years past, Doha’s hotel community have stepped up to the plate to make the Ramadan tradition of Suhour truly sparkle with delectable brilliance. While Iftars are usually a family affair, the Suhour can be a more social gathering. with so much choice, it’s hard to know where to turn first. Well, fear not, Sur la Terre is hear to give you a sneak preview into some of the most glittering gastronomical delights that Doha has to offer.
Doesn't it look inviting?
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Grand Hyatt Last year the luxurious hotel won prizes for its impressive Ramadan Tent and this year all the stops are being pulled out to make the month long celebration even bigger and better! This year Grand Hyatt decided to bring all the chefs de cuisine from its restaurants together to join forces and offer an international buffet with flavours to cater to all tastes. A variety of live stations will be set-up providing everything from grills, traditional Arabic food, Asian cuisine, and of course, an extensive dessert selection to satisfy those with a sweet tooth (hello bahklava!). For those looking for a more private experience, VIP private Majlis and Gazebos will be set-up in different areas within the tent where guests can enjoy an exclusive service with a private butler, and draw the curtains for a wee bit of privacy. To make a reservation for these fine festive feasts, and to get more information once the Ramadan time approaches, head over to the Grand Hyatt’s website www.doha.grand. hyatt.com.
Marriott Ever since the hotel community decided to get into the Suhour game, the Doha Marriott has been one of the best places to attend. Luckily for the feasting faithful, the 2014 season is set to be no different. The good folks over at the Big M will transform their restaurant gallery souqstyle to create a Middle Eastern wonderland. The Marriot will also be decorating its ballrooms to accommodate large groups, so if you have a lot of friends or family, or want to impress your work colleagues, this is the place to book. The traditional Iftar meal begins at the end of the sunset call to prayer magrib and continues until 7:30pm, offering all of the classic dishes and drinks customary to the cultural practice. At 9pm, the Marriot’s Ramadan tent kicks the eating into overdrive with a comprehensive Suhour buffet and live entertainment. With a huge seating capacity, you can feel free to invite all of your friends and family who will undoubtedly be hungry for a unique experience ... and delicious food, of course. All of our old favourites from around the region will be there, like shawarma, kharouf, atayaf and kounafa. Never had the chance to trythese dishes? Well now is the time to introduce your taste buds to their new friends for life! Combined with more recognisable dishes, like traditional soups and salads and mouthwatering cooking and sage bread stations, the Marriott’s Iftar and Suhour buffets are sure to reignite your love of cuisine. To find out more of what Marriott has in store, including special room rates, check out www.marriot.com. 31
sur la terre | ramadan guide | suhour
Sharq Village Sharq Village and Spa remains one of our favourite places to dine and de-stress. Lined wall to wall with local culture and populated with friendly and delightful staff, the small, luxury-saturated Arabian cityscape is one of the most unique places to “chill out”. Ironically, it also doubles as one of the premiere “hotspots” to calm that rumbling tummy this Ramadan season. The two restaurants, Al Dasha and Al Liwan, are lined with buffets that include a multitude of carving stations. Topping it all off one of the many delicious flavours of shisha is the perfect way to punctuate this ultimate dining experience. If your sweet tooth is aching, you can roll over to the dessert buffet which goes until 1am. The tent buffets last from 8pm to 2am, or 10pm in the more family orientated Al Liwan, so you can feel free to get your fill until the wee hours of the morning. If your feasting prevents you from fitting into your trousers, much less moving, you can always just stay in any of the decadently designed rooms and sleep off your sumptuous supper in style. Thanks to the appropriately named Sharq, this Ramadan season is going to have a lot of “bite”. To learn more, contact Al Sharq at www.sharqvillage.com
The Ritz As one of the most trusted names for “hotelegance” in Doha, the Ritz Carlton has garnered quite the tried-and-true reputation over the years for throwing grand parties and spectacular events. Just like every other year, this Ramadan season is no exception. Most of the grandiose event will take place from sunset until 1am at the fabulous Lagoon Restaurant, with mouthwatering dishes of local fare including lamb ouzi, shrimp brik, shawarma, chicken madrouba, classic mezze and vegetable saloona. This is all provided you can make it past the Lobby Lounge, which will be serving Arabic sweets, pastries, coffees and teas throughout the Iftar. It’s like a small bedouin city of satisfaction! Trust the Ritz to roll out the red carpet come sunset during this year’s holy month. To find out more or to make reservations now, check out their website www.ritzcarlton.com 32
The W Hotel Doha’s fanciest hotel pulls out all the stops each year for Ramadan. The theme of the evening is “Grand Bazaar”, which will see the mezzanine floor transformed into a souq through which you have to venture before entering the “Sultan’s Tent”. Upon entering the blue lit room, you will see that the spread that the W puts on is very impressive, fit, indeed, for a sultan. As the W is known for its contemporary and chic decor, with the most stylish spot in town, it’s no surprise that the modernity spills over into its Ramadan cuisine. Not content to just serve the Arabic delicacies that we all know and love, the restaurants in the W club together to go the extra mile, just in case you wanted something other than the traditional Arabic fare (although really, is that even possible?) with the best Asian cuisine, from sushi to dumplings. www.whoteldoha.com
Renaissance Marriott The good people at the Renaissance Marriott have remembered that although it’s Ramadan, it’s also the FIFA World Cup. Both cultural high points have a lot in common; they’re about sharing and passion and working together. So while the Renaissance will have an amazing Tanoura dancer who will spin round round, baby, right round, dazzling the crowds with his strength and skill, there will also be some cheeky wee screens showing the football matches in private seating areas for those of us who cannot bear to spend an evening without knowing the score. Apart from the hugely tempting entertainment, the delicious spread that the Renaissance put on in the Al Areen ballroom of traditional Arabic food to duck pancakes will get your mouth watering. Check out www.marriott.com for more details.
La Cigale At the glitzy La Cigale you can indulge in a sumptuous Iftar buffet laden with dishes that tantalise your taste buds from live cooking stations, to delicious mezze, fresh salads, traditional Arabic and international favourites. The hotel is also offering private Iftars, where La Cigale’s renowned chefs offer a truly culinary experience, but for the true La Cigale experience you should head on down to their Ramadan tent for Suhour. Held outside near the indoor swimming pool, the Ramadan tent will not only offer an extravagant buffet, but also live Arabic music to keep you entertained until the early hours. Of course, no Ramadan experience would be complete without shisha, and the La Cigale shishas are rumoured to be the best in Doha. Find out at www.lacigalehotel.com. 33
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sur la terre | ramadan guide
fa s h i o n | a r c h i t e c t u r e | t r av e l
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SLT takes a look at the artistic side of ramadan „
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | fashion
Easy Dégradé Printed SilkTwill Shirt by Band of Outsiders
Satin Trimmed Crepe Tapered Pants by DKNY
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Long sleeved Shirt by Michael Kors
Hammered Gold Plated Cuff by Hervé Van der Straeten
It's getting hot in here As the summer heats up, your wardrobe only gets that much cooler. Washed Silk Blouse by Chloe
For the Ladies Ramadan can be a sartorially challenging time. Not only is it as hotter than ever, but the cultural sensitivities require the ladies to dress more modestly than usual. The peculiar combination of having to cover up, and having to dress for the extreme heat can make you break out in a cold sweat; it’s difficult to accomplish the two without looking like a dowdy frump, or making some very curious (read: desperate) fashion choice. But you needn’t fear! Ramadan is a time when you can go big and bold and take some style tips from the glamorous locals who are always working it! The most important part of fashion is, of course, the accessories which can make or break an outfit. This is the time to break out the fabulous, OTT bling to complement your look. This summer, we’re rocking bangles and a cool new pair of shades.
Printed Cotton-Poplin Dress by Suno
Tareza Silk-Blend Maxi Skirt by Malene Birger
Gold Plated D Frame Mirrored Sunglasses by Dolce & Gabbana
All products are from www.net-a-porter.com 36
Coo l d o w n t h i s s u m m e r enjoy an iftar with friends and family in your cool new garbs.
Check Short Sleeve Linen and Cotton Blend Shirt by Margaret Howell
Denim Jeans by Brioni
Brushed Cotton Blend Trousers by Canali
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Slim-Fit Stenciled Check Cotton Shirt by Maison martin margiela
For the Gentlemen
Flamingo Print Cotton Jersey T Shirt by Katie Eary
In the heat, it’s the men who suffer the most in their workwear. The undershirt trick that helps keep the sweat patches at bay works as hard as it can, but during the Gulf summer, no one is immune to the heat. That’s why it’s important not to give up during your downtime. It’s possible to still look like the dandy, metrosexual or mod that you want to be; just keep it simple and add something new to your collection. We’ve perused what’s out there to give you a head's up for the summer. Whether it be colourful slip on shoes, crustacean decorated swimming trunks, a retro print vest or simply an update on the short sleeve shirt and shorts combo, we’ve got something for you to brighten up your wardrobe.
Steve McQueen Folding Acetate Sunglasses by Persol Woven Slip On Shoes by Rivieras
All products are from www.mrporter.com 37
sur la terre | ramadan guide | interview
A i i s h a R amadan
SLT speaks to UAE based Lebanese fashion designer, Aiisha Ramadan about Middle Eastern style, her early fashion influences and of course, her latest collection, Primrose Path.
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hen did you first become interested in fashion? What was your earliest fashion experience? It started when I first learned how to hold a pencil and draw, and then further evolved when I started stitching clothes for my Barbie dolls from little scraps of fabric given to me by my aunt, who is a tailor. My first big moment came when I designed myself a turquoise crepe dress for Eid and was highly complimented for it. What were your early fashion influences? I love couture originating from the Middle East. Gold and spice markets have left a strong impression on me. What was the inspiration for your latest collection? While each person sees beauty in their own way, I see it in the surface of water and listen to it in the sound of wind hitting the tree branches. I appreciate the complex process that results in an experiment of different colours. My new collection, Primrose Path, embraces everything beautiful I see, feel and breathe. I used beautiful and simple textiles, neon colours as well as classic tones. Silk, French lace, guipure and jacquards were the core textiles of this collection. Clean lines remain the essence of simplicity without leaving out the beauty of soft silks creating a vision and feel of luxury.
Aiisha Ramadan
What are your thoughts on the Middle Eastern fashion scene? Are Arab fashion designers as respected as they should be? Arab designers are much more appreciated in Europe and the USA than they are in the Middle East. That leads us to several points; the standards of the new generation have to rise via the support of the industry’s influencers from the Middle East. Secondly, the customer has to be educated on the values of their homegrown talents. „ 38
I love couture originating from the Middle East. Gold and spice markets have left a strong impression on me. – Aiisha Ramadan 39
sur la terre | ramadan guide | interview
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y new collection, Primrose Path, embraces everything beautiful I see, feel and breathe. I used beautiful and simple textiles, neon colours as well as classic tones
Do Europe and America have a different style compared to Middle East? If we’re talking about the natives of the Middle East, then the most obvious answer is yes, the style is very different. If we’re talking about the population residing the Middle East, then that’s shifting more towards globalisation maintaining an extra bling in the Middle Eastern style. What tips for you have for dressing in Ramadan? It’s quite simple; respect the month and dress appropriately. What is your creative process? Well, it wouldn't be creative if it was predictable or planned! Are you the stereotypical whimsical artist or a practical entrepreneur? I’ll leave the judgment on the creative part to the public. However, I do know that I have a brain and that allows me to be a good businesswoman. How big a part does social media play in your career and fashion in general? It’s become one of the most interesting elements in my career as I get to personally stay in touch with my fans as well as hear their feedback directly. How would you describe your personal style? Mostly classic. What style advice would you give? Just be who you are. It's easier said than done, but once you reach that level of complete comfort in your own skin, it will amaze you how much happier you’ve become. 40
sur la terre | ramadan guide | architecture
Mo s q u e A r c h i t e c t u r e Ramadan is a special month in which spirituality is at the foremost of all our thoughts and while it’s not necessary to be inside a mosque to ruminate on life’s big questions, the beautiful and awe-inspiring architecture is a testament to the strength of people’s faith and is certainly an inspiration to Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It’s impossible not to admire the feats of genius, strength and power that goes into making a majestic place of worship and in that vein, SLT takes a look at some of the most beautiful mosques in the world, from ancient to modern.
an atmospheric and dramatic aesthetic, while also symbolising the Five Pillars of Islam. The fantastic example of Malay-Islamic design is at once tranquil and dramatic. Adorned by Arab script on the walls and ceiling, the mosque is flooded with blue light from the stain glass windows. The mosque also has a special patriotic meaning for Malays, as it’s the burial site of the warriors who died defending the State from Siam in 1821.
Zahir Mosque - Kedah, Malaysia The Zahir Mosque is one of Malaysia's oldest and grandest mosques, dating back to the early twentieth century. Often recognised as one of the most aesthetically stunning pieces of Islamic architecture in the world, Zahir Mosque was inspired by the Azizi Mosque in North Sumatra, Indonesia. The five black domes atop the white architecture makes for 42
The Great Mosque of Samarra - Samarra, Iraq
Hassan II Mosque - Casablanca, Morocco Designed by renowned French architect Michel Pinseau, the Hassan II Mosque is the crowning achievement of the late Moroccan king after which the mosque is named. Commissioned to mark the 60th birthday of King Hassan II, the mosque has become Casablanca’s premier landmark, an extravagant project that cost a cool $800 million, and employed 6,000 Moroccan master craftsmen and artisans to work on the beautiful mosque. While most of the materials were sourced in Morocco, giving the mosque an authentic feel and embodying Morocco’s rich cultural heritage, the spectacular white granite columns and glass chandeliers are from Murano, Italy. One of the mosque’s unique features is the platform that its situated on, which is stretched out over the Atlantic ocean. This has enabled the architect to make part of the floor out of glass so that worshippers can pray directly over the sea. Unfortunately, it’s is only for Royal use, but it’s still an amazing aspect to the mosque. There is also a laser beam that points towards Mecca at night, so that worshippers outside the mosque can still find the holy city.
Faisal Mosque - Islamabad, Pakistan The beautiful and unusual mosque that sits at the foothills of the Himalayas in Islamabad is an iconic feat of architecture in Pakistan and indeed the world. Until the Hassan II Mosque was completed in the early 90s, the Faisal Mosque was the largest in the world. Turkish architect Vedat Ali Dalokay’s most famous project, the design was initially quite controversial as it is a big departure from traditional Islamic architecture. However, on completion, the mosque, which is named after the late King Faisal bin Abdul-Aziz of Saudi Arabia who financed the project, was a huge success. Inspired by a bedouin tent, the mosque has no dome or arches, but thin minarets, which is a common aspect of Turkish mosques, evoking a modern, conceptual feel. 43
In one of the Holy Cities of Iraq lies the amazing and unique Great Mosque of Samarra, a ninth century feat of architectural brilliance that has stood for over a thousand years. The actual mosque fell into ruin around the 11th century, but it is the minaret, the Malwiya tower, which is also known as the “snail shell” minaret, that has captured the imagination of millions. Inside, the stucco carvings of floral and geometric designs show the early beginnings of Islamic traditional decoration. The ruler of Samarra, a great admirer of architecture and urban planning, commissioned the mosque and it is rumoured that he rode up the spiral tower on a white donkey to gaze out to Mecca from the top when it was first completed. The design is heavily inspired by Mesopotamian ziggurats, temples that were built on platforms so they could be easily viewed from far away, and the minaret still towers over Samarra to this day. Unfortunately it was damaged by soldiers at the beginning of the Iraq War, and the minaret has started to crumble.
sur la terre | ramadan guide | experience
R a m adan Reflection s
shehan masHood, the edge's digital editor reflects on his personal experience of the Holy month of ramadan and offers up his own pearls of wisdom.
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y earliest memories of Ramadan stretch back to when I was about six years old, and as far as I understood it, it meant eating as much food as possible, which I have a sneaking suspicion was my mum’s way of getting me to eat my lunch and dinner on time! As you might imagine, I was somewhat surprised a couple of years later to discover this was in fact the antithesis of what Ramadan represented. It was a time to abstain from eating and drinking, a time for worship, doing good in the community and spiritual development of oneself. Many years on, I now look forward to the month of Ramadan; it is my favourite time of year. For many a typical day during Ramadan begins in the last third of the night before daybreak. We wake up to pray tahajjud „
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | experience
Increasing your adab - the Arabic word for good manners - is also a focus in Ramadan. Part of fasting is to guard our tongues against lying, gossiping, and uttering profanities, being rude and arguing with others, virtues we try to perfect in Ramadan and practice throughout the rest of the year. Ramadan for Muslims above all is a month of seeking closeness to God, and fasting, like prayer or any other act of worship, even a smile to a stranger done for the sake of God, is a means to seeking that closeness.
also known as the night prayer, which is often done in seclusion. This is followed by Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal), which is the last meal of the day before we break our fast at sunset. My family, like many others gathers in the morning to eat together, which is the last meal we will eat till sunset. Fasting helps us empathise with the many people around the world that do not have access to the simplest things we take for granted, and we become much more conscious of our neediness to God and spend time in prayer thanking Him for the blessings in our lives. In this month, many Muslims in addition to performing obligatory acts of worship, such as the five prayers, also perform supererogatory acts of worship, spending more time at the Mosque and trying to complete the reading of the Quran at least once during Ramadan. We also engage in what is known as dhikr (remembrance) and fikr (reflection) of God. Every Ramadan I also like to read a biography of the Prophet (PBUH) and I would recommend Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources by Martin Lings, as by far one of the best English books written on the Prophet (PBUH).
Ramadan is also time most of us become aware of how much or how little we do to help those less able or less fortunate than us. The pangs of thirst and hunger serve as a reminder, and we are encouraged to give charitably to others. Sarah Husni Jabari, The Edge's Art Director has a long-standing family tradition where they each pick someone either within the family, or a stranger to help during Ramadan. “We don’t even talk about it anymore,” she explained, “it’s just something we do.” While giving to charity publicly serves to remind people of its importance,
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“Ramadan for Muslims above all is a month of seeking closeness to God, and fasting, like prayer or any other act of worship, even a smile to a stranger done for the sake of God is a means to seeking that closeness.”
Muslims are also encouraged to do so privately in order to keep their intentions pure. As a scholar once remarked, “When you give a needy person something, smile at him and be aware that it is you who are indebted to him, for he accepts little from you, for which you receive a reward worth more than the whole world.”
During much of the year, many, myself included like to lament on the impiety of the modern world, the long working hours and indulgences in what would be considered worldly vices that might otherwise be spent in worship, wishing I were on some remote mountain top allowed to worship in peace.
In the evening, at sunset comes Iftar, the meal for breaking our fast. Many of us, I am among them, are guilty of gorging on lavish meals often and over eating. We are however encouraged to quench our thirst and hunger, following a Prophetic tradition of thirds, one third for food, one third for liquids and a third for breath. Like Suhoor, Iftar is a family affair for most. Sarah, who has an extended family in Qatar says 25 to 30 people gather at her grandmother’s house to break their fast together.
But Ramadan’s greatest virtue is that is reminds me that these are just excuses I make, and that spiritual nourishment can be found by sanctifying every moment and act in life through the remembrance of God. Islam, as an Imam once remarked, is not a worldly religion but one that teaches us to be at ease in the world. This is why we say bismillah (In the name of God) before starting a meal, setting off on a journey or even writing this article! Ramadan helps us focus away from the self and towards the Other (God) and in turn the other (humanity). I hope this month serves as a blessing to all those partaking in it, Muslim or otherwise.
Ramadan this year will be longer than any that some of us have ever experienced as it falls in the hot summer months. But what we gain through hardship in fasting is more baraka (blessings) and we should always be mindful of those in tougher conditions.
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sur la terre | ramadan guide | travel
T h e Goo d L i f e : G oing G reen the G olden W ay
Sur la Terre explores the world of sustainable luxury. Words: Steven Paugh
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real, measurable steps in creating and fostering a much more conservational approach to merchandise, experiences and services. In a bid to do our part, then, Sur la Terre would like to present the following small, yet powerful, list of options that could make your life truly rich and in the spirit of Ramadan; these are no frivolous indulgences.
he luxury market is often blamed for many things: the broadening of the inequality gap, the furtherance of a society of excess and even as being a contributor to the destruction of the natural environment. True luxury, however, is not wasteful, nor is it invasive or unnecessarily consumptive. Real and lasting luxury is all about precision exclusivity and bespoke experiences, rather than mass production. Luxury is enduring, not disposable; therefore, to be luxurious, almost by its very definition, is to be sustainable.
Tucson Mountain Retreat One of the more uncompromising luxuries anyone can experience in life is achieving a oneness with the natural world. However, we as a species still have not quite learned that balance. Especially invasive is the way we adapt „
Allowing that this may be a more conceptual argument, many corners of the luxury market have begun to take very 49
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our environment to suit our needs, rather than evolving alongside it. Architecture and private development can cause massive and long-lasting damage to the natural world. That is exactly why we have fallen in love with the architectural design firm, DUST, and perhaps its most famous project, The Tucson Mountain Retreat.
boasts a 30,000-gallon rainwater harvesting system with an advanced filtration network that provides this most precious desert commodity throughout the entire household. Using design elements similar to those once used by traditional Bedouin societies here in the Gulf, the retreat also maximises its geographic positioning while naturally eliminating its more detrimental environmental factors. Heat is reduced by laying out the house in a more linear way, along its east-west axis, while capturing prevailing southerly breezes and ushering them throughout the structure as a means of natural ventilation. Of course, sustainability is also about interaction; to “know thyself,” one must also know that which surrounds him or her, which is why the parking area is 400 feet from the house and why it enjoys such an open, by-zone plan: these design cues urge an engagement with the natural world - something that is, particularly in modernised societies, increasingly being lost.
Located in the Arizona portion of the Sonoran desert, the retreat is not so much an architectural wonder hammered into its environs, as it is one urged, divined, even grown from the earth itself. Rendered primarily from an ancient building technique called “rammed earth” (which, as the name implies, uses compressed soil to construct durable earthen load-bearing walls), it looks as native as the adjacent arroyos, rock out-croppings and cacti that surround it. The Tucson Mountain Retreat shares - rather than exploits - the gifts of its unspoiled location, incorporating fixtures and design elements that minimise the physical impact the home has on the environment, while at the same time enhancing its various boons. For example, the retreat
Homes like the Tucson Mountain Retreat could and should be emulated here in the Middle East - particularly in more arid climates like those found in the Gulf - and to ignore its
Luxury doesn't always mean grandiose; sometimes the greatest luxury is space.
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progressive environmental innovations would be a baffling sin of omission. To see more about the Tucson Mountain Retreat, visit the DUST firm’s blog, www.blog.dustdb.com
different styles of luxurious accommodation across more than half a million acres throughout three different African nations, with each branch existing as its own stand-alone (not to mention stand-out) experience.
Of course, not everyone has the land to build such an exciting fulcrum of a life-better-lived, so instead, why not focus on making your time away from home that much more sustainable?
In the words of its mission statement, “Singita’s enduring purpose is to conserve, preserve, and protect the miraculous places of which we are custodians. Our concessions, reserves and properties represent some of the most pristine wilderness areas on the continent and we are dedicated to maintaining these incredible pieces of earth for future generations.”
Singita Luxury Safari For those not yet willing or financially able to commit to incorporate positive environmental changes to their permanent dwellings, there is an emerging market called “eco-tourism,” which allows travellers to engage directly and in a non-invasive way with the natural world. Paramount amongst these options is perhaps the Singita Luxury Safari experience.
Throughout its numerous sites, Singita has an even greater and more diverse number of different lodges, homes and camps to choose from, each one abounding with a luxury that is uncompromising, but one that is also pure; it beautifies its environment without molesting it with gilded excess. Even the most cursory look at www.singita.com affords an amazing tour of its varied accommodation options, each of which is set like a diamond within the natural setting of its particular environment, each of which teems with life.
Meaning “place of miracles” in the Shangaan language, Singita is a family of luxury wildlife and safari reserves, which is truly well-named. Originally conceived as a single lodge in 1993, Singita has since expanded to almost a dozen
Singita Luxury Safari is truly a one of a kind experience.
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Not only will your stay come peppered by run-ins with some of the more colourful members of the animal kingdom, being that they are given the same freedom to roam the grounds as you, but by signing up as a guest, you will have an even more directly positive impact on the surrounding environment. By staying at a Stingita property, you are contributing to local programmes which facilitate and enrich the communities of which they are a part. Whether it’s the “Touching the Earth Lightly” programme at Singita Kruger National Park, which provides funding for environmental maintenance, monitoring and ongoing research, or the perhaps more focused Singita Pamaushana Rhino Reintroduction Programme, each of the diverse and worthwhile systems will assist in preserving the natural world through luxurious means, rather than detracting from them. The list of awards and general praise for Singita is nigh-innumerable, if not certainly too lengthy to report within this article (a comprehensive list of its accolades can be found at www.singita.com/awards); suffice it to say, however, that Singita properties across Africa are well-regarded, not only for their commitment to luxury sustainability, but also for providing a bridge between Man and the natural world within an authentic, rewarding and indeed life-changing framework. Sustainable luxury is not necessarily relegated to the realm of accommodation, of course. There are many products that have begun to crop up throughout the world that use as their basis the idea of a rather more long-lasting and positive haute couture. Tropical Salvage is one such company that specialises in producing high-end goods with an equally high-minded sensibility.
His visit to Gunung Lueser National Park in West Sumatra in 1998 left him aghast. After coming face to face with the shambolic remains of some particularly wasteful deforestation, he would go on to found Tropical Salvage with the keenly-focused remit of finding, excavating and utilising wild-growth, felled, buried and reclaimed wood found in the Indonesian islands of Java and Borneo to create minimalist, understated, one-of-a-kind household furniture items.
Tropical Salvage To those readers who may be unaware, clear-cut logging (which haphazardly uproots trees on a mass scale) effectively undermines the structural integrity of forests, thus allowing erosion and the danger of resultant flooding, which in turn destroys the fragile ecosystem by robbing it of life, be that endangered animals or rare species of medicinal plants. That is just one of the potentially world-threatening dangers involved in careless methods of deforestation, and why Timothy O’Brien founded Tropical Salvage in the first place.
The diverse catalogue at Tropical Salvage includes everything from tastefully-carved bureaus and bed frames, to naturally-varnished entertainment stands and beverage towers, to gorgeous chests, chairs and benches. Meanwhile, organisations like the Jepara Forest Conservancy are 52
“We embrace idiosyncrasies that history has fixed into our salvaged woods: marks from nails, old bore holes from insects intense grain colours caused by long immersion in mineralmurky rivers ” This is a luxury that adopts what is known in Japan as the Wabi-sabi school of thought, which states that there is beauty in the transience of life, and in the embrace of imperfection, and thus, we would argue, exclusivity. Much of the wood re-beautified by the company has been carbon-dated at anywhere between 700 to 1,000 years old, making it a unique, time-tested collaboration between man and nature. Tropical Salvage is a celebration of a that lessinvasive harmony; it appreciates a functional body that can still stand resplendent in a skin which affords the wealth of a millennia of stories; grizzled with a resounding depth that is mirrored in its scars, earned as they have been through the long passage of time. This is luxury with character, and we couldn’t love it more.
simultaneously funded in their important work to restore forests, facilitate environmental education and dialogue, and embolden local communities to elicit change themselves. Keen observers will note that while they are unquestionably beautiful, the wares at Tropical Salvage may also appear misshapen, with small, natural or previously manmade flaws peeking subtly through the surface of the wood. Explains the company mandate: “We embrace idiosyncrasies that history has fixed into our salvaged woods: marks from nails, old bore holes from insects [...] intense grain colours caused by long immersion in mineral-murky rivers [...] These characteristics are all part of the wood’s rich history and provoke our wonder and respect.”
To read more about O’Brien and the journey he and the artisans of Tropical Salvage continue to undertake, visit tropicalsalvage.com These are but a few of the increasingly prevalent ways that prove luxury can be beautiful, bespoke and elegant, while at the same time being environmentally sensitive, sustainable and ethically true. 53
guide
D etails
- International Sales International Sales Director Julia Toon j.toon@firefly-me.com +974 6688 0228
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