AUGUST 2016 - 15 L.E., VOLUME 11, ISSUE 11 WWW.IDENTITY-MAG.COM
UPGRADE YOUR HOLIDAY HOME
Sun, Sandals, and Swimsuits
110
SUMMER BUYS CAPTURING THE SUMMER SPIRIT?
see page 52-57
SCORCHING SUMMER
GET THE SUN-KISSED LOOK
+
MAKE A SPLASH
for swimsuit season
PLAN YOUR HOTTEST DATE NIGHT
SUMMER STYLING
from head to toe
N AT UR A LLY U P L I F T ING A R EFLECT ION OF YOU
16696 www.hpd.com.eg
letter from the editors
scorching summer shoot see page 36
A
And so a fabulous summertime season is still kicking. Take in all the summer joys, sunshine, sand, sizzling music and the fun that goes along. It is the season to be out and about, be active, travel the world and experience every adventure you can afford. Spend time with your friends and family, make memories and live with no regrets. Laugh as hard as you can. Take every chance you have to enjoy every precious moment. Take full throttle and embrace the wind, embrace the world, take control of your life and enjoy it! The world is your playground, the sky your audience, make use of them and have fun.
Identity Magazine was founded in 2005 by Rola Kamel to enhance every aspect of a woman’s life style, helping our female readers to discover and improve their own identities. The subscription rate to Identity is 180 L.E. for one year (12 issues) by Al Ahram, Tel: 02-27703190 Contact us at: 26A Montazah St., Zamalek, Cairo-Egypt. Tel: 02-27361187 Mobile: 0122-9401071 email: sendus@identity-mag.com www.identity-mag.com
IDENTITYMAGEG 6 Identity August 2016
masthead
AUGUST VOLUME 11
ISSUE 11
IDENTITY-MAG.COM
Founder & Managing Editor ROLA KAMEL Editor-in-Chief NAWAL ISMAIL Senior Arabic Editor ADEL SALIB Copy-Editor AMINA EL FAYOUMY Junior Editors AMINA MOUSTAPHA, ALIA EL SAADY Part-time Editor NOUR NADER Editorial Interns EMAN OSMAN, HANA YOUSRY Online Freelance Writer MIRANA TERA Relationship Expert MARWA RAKHA Psychology Expert KATE KERPEZ Fashion Expert NAHED KAZZIHA Senior Graphic Designer ALIA EL-ABD Graphic design intern SAMA ABBAS Marketing & Advertising Manager RIHAM YEHIA Digital Marketing Manager STEVE NABEEL Online Advertising Consultant MARWA KAMEL Identity Magazine Distributors ASHRAF FOUAD & ESSAM IBRAHIM Website Company QPIX SOLUTIONS Distribution Company AL AHRAM Printing House INTERNATIONAL PRINTING HOUSE (IPH)
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W O R L D W I D E LO C AT I O N S:
AFRICA
ASIA
EUROPE
L AT I N A M E R I C A
MIDDLE EAST
NORTH AMERICA
contents
36 30
shoot:
SCORCHING SUMMER
SUNNY DAZE 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
54
GRADUATES: HOW TO MAKE USE OF YOUR LAST SUMMER
10 Identity August 2016
BEACH MUST-HAVES MUST-HAVES ADDICTED TO SUMMER FLINGS SIX HOT DATE IDEAS BEST CITIES TO VISIT PLAN THE PERFECT ROADTRIP FIVE MUST READS THIS SUMMER TEEN SUMMER JOB GUIDE A ROUTE TO HEALTH
FASHION & BEAUTY
26 A GUIDE TO MAKEUP ON THE BEACH 28 HAIR STYLES FOR SUMMER 2016 30 THE RIGHT KIND OF TREND 32 LOOKS FOR LESS
SUMMER SPIRIT
48 CRATING THE IDEAL BEACH HOUSE 52 FAMILY FUN ADVENTURES 56 WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER HOUSE SWAP THIS SUMMER
BITS & PIECES 58 SNAPS 60 PRESS RELEASES 64 HOROSCOPES
beach must-haves AMAZON.COM - SUKIE SUNSHINE CAMPER TRAVEL JOURNAL “Vintage-inspired travel journal complete with pockets for all your favourite memorabilia from your trips. Made from 100% recycled paper and finished with silk-screened cover.” CITYBLIS - FASHIONABLE DESIGNER HAND FAN LOOK HOT “Hand Held fashionable fan, that made it’s appearance with Christina Aguilera on ‘The Voice’”
IDENTITY LOVES SWELL - S’WELL 17OZ MARBLE WATER BOTTLE “Updated water bottle from S’well that’s double-coated to keep liquids cold for 24 hours or hot for 12.”
PIZZA SLICE POOL FLOAT- URBAN OUTFITTERS “Get your pool party game on point with this pizza slice pool float fitted with two cup holders.”
ZERO GRAVITY - CASBAH IPHONE 6/6S CASE “iPhone 6 Plus/6s Plus case with plastic bumpers for added security. Complete with intricate embroidery at the back for a boho look we love!”
PASTORAL PRINT SPAGHETTI STRAP PLAYSUIT “Go boho chic by pairing this romper with a pair of strappy sandals.”
FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI 8RADIOSHACK “The newest mini version of Fuji’s super stylish Instax Instant Camera. Features simple exposure adjustment and automatic flash.” 12 Identity August 2016
must-haves Ileana Makri Alison Lou
H&M
Cartier
Loren Stewart Raphaele Canot
Aurelie Bidermann
Bvlgari Jacquie Aiche
TINY JEWELS Tiffany & Co.
Sudan Foster
Chopard
Jennifer Meyer
by Nahed Kazziha
Yvonne Leon
Raphaele Canot
There is a sure-fire case to be made for statement accessories- you know, the chunky, bedazzled jewels that demand attention and adoration at first sight. Lo and behold, the more subtle variety of jewels that will steal your heart: delicate, light and layered. Not only will tiny jewellery become part of your daily combat rituals (i.e. your workout, shower, swim) with little to no interference, but they will also keep your tan line in check (because no one wants a huge medallion shaped tan line etched across their chest!). So, layer on your fine jewellery and feel free this summer. Anita Ko
Delfina Delettrez
Andrea Fohrman Maria Tash
Vita Fede
Orelia
Khai Khai
Fiffany & Co. Noor Fares Loren Stewart
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Anissa Kermiche
Inez Vinoodh
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The Top 5 Best Actresses This Ramadan
Which Character Represents You In The Grand Hotel Series?
11 Cairo Restaurants You Have To Visit Before You Die
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Interviews
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Bel Masry
Relationships
Life
A La Mode
Health Gurus
Latest news in Egypt, the world, and the Internet.
This section is based on Egyptian culture and funny things Egyptians relate to.
Everything beauty and fashion related in the Egyptian fashion scene.
Missed the interview when it was published? you can find it here.
Everything from love advice to intimacy related to Egyptian culture and traditions.
Everything related to health and fitness.
It is all about entertaining; from celebrity news to places to go
This section is dedicated to serious topics, discussions, interviews and open letters.
advice gurus
ADDICTED TO SUMMER FLINGS by Marwa Rakha
Dear Marwa, I am nearly 25 and all I seek in terms of relationships are summer flings. I like them. I like the anticipation of getting to know someone and then the agony of letting go at the end. Every year, I have a long talk with myself. I convince myself that this is not a fruitful kind of relationship and I start my summer trying to be more committed. But at the end, I can’t get myself to do it. What’s wrong with me? Dear Addicted to Summer Flings, There is nothing wrong with you! Some people are naturally more committed than others. Do you remember that friend of yours who wanted to have a family since high school? Do you remember your other friend whose relationship goal was getting engaged before finishing college or getting married right after? Do you remember the guys and girls whose ultimate objective was to settle down? These people need a steady stable relationship to thrive in other aspects of their lives and without that one special person, they live a never-ending drama.
Some people are never ready! That is another fact! Some people reach their forties and end their fifties, yet they still feel unready! You might find yourself in the end with this group of people. Some of them were married for a short period and got divorced; Then there are people like you – many people like you others were never married. Some have a child; others – who enjoy the different tastes of what life has to are childless and they are all still considered normal offer in terms of love and life in general. You are eager human beings – they are just a different shade of to explore, experience and embrace love, pleasure normal. and happiness, just as much as pain, sadness and loneliness. You might give the impression that you My advice to you is: don’t try to force yourself into are flighty, unreliable and flaky, but in reality you are a fake sense of readiness for stability. And do not just not ready to commit and you are clear about it! pretend to be someone that you are not. Until you You are fully aware of your duties and responsibilities as a committed partner in a relationship and you are mature enough to know and accept the fact that you are not “there yet”. One day, after a year or a decade, the need to settle down will kick in and at the time, you will be emotionally and mentally ripe to welcome a long relationship, marriage, and maybe, parenting. Being conscious and responsible will spare you unnecessary drama. 16 Identity August 2016
are ready, be honest with yourself and your partner from the beginning about your feelings, expectations and needs. The last thing you need is bad karma or negative energy hovering over your future. For the time being, enjoy the summer, the heat and the breeze, and equally enjoy the flings with all their intensity.
sunny fashiondaze fever
6 HOT
DATE IDEAS by Alia Elsaady
When John Travolta said, “Summer loving, had me a blast” in the hit musical Grease, he knew that summer was the best time for romance and dating. And because things are heating up in the weather, there’s definitely a good reason for things to heat up in your love life too! That is why this season you should get more unconventional with your dates and here’s how: SUNRISE BY THE BEACH Since you’ll probably be going to the beach this summer anyway, why not find a way to have your own private moment on the beach without all the crowds and noise? It will help you get the alone time you both need while giving you a unique experience of the sea. It will be almost as if you both have your own private island.
better way to strengthen that bond, than with a karaoke night? Just grab a mic and sing your hearts out. And even if you’re not a great singer, it’s always fun to share a memorable moment with your partner! NOSTALGIC MOVIE NIGHT Instead of going to the movies, stay in and bond over all the movies you both enjoyed in your younger years. You’ll be tempted to pay attention because the movie is your partner’s favourite and will reveal a lot of things you might not have known about your significant other.
COOK DINNER TOGETHER Heating things up in the kitchen is a great way to connect! Find some recipes online and purchase the necessary ingredients before going to the kitchen to get your hands dirty! And once you are done cooking, you will have the added bonus of sharing a meal RELEASE YOUR INNER CHILD Just because you’re a little older, doesn’t mean you together. What could be better than good food and don’t know how to have fun! A great idea that’s sure good company? to bring you and your significant other feelings of nostalgia and be a lot of fun in the summer time is to GIVE BACK! purchase toys and items that you can both play with There is nothing quite like that warm fuzzy feeling outdoors and rekindle your inner child through. Nerf you get after helping someone in need. This summer, guns and frisbees are great examples of outdoor play make it a priority to volunteer with your partner at that both of you can enjoy while bonding over what any local charity and help the community together. You will both be doing it together, and you will both you both used to play with as kids. feel great afterwards! KARAOKE NIGHT! A lot of people say that singing with your partner strengthens the bond you have with them. So, what 18 Identity August 2016
sunny daze
BEST CITIES TO VISIT THIS SUMMER by Amina Moustapha
If seasons had personalities, summer would be bombastic and carefree. Kick up your feet, pour yourself a tall glass of watermelon juice, and get ready for a list of the best destinations to explore this upcoming vacation. Pack your bags and head to one of them -if not all- this summer. 1. MIAMI, FLORIDA Whether you want to chill out on the sand, go for a bracing walk or splash about in the ocean, you’re sure to find a beach that suits you in the US’s most charming city. Miami is simply a joie de vivre; its seductiveness and wildlife will sweep you off your feet. From South Beach to Homestead Bayfront Park and Marina, Miami is unmatched when it comes to having the most picturesque coastlines. The city is one of the world’s liveliest, most entertaining and vibrant cities during the day, but even more so at night. It’s filled with the highest energy night clubs of all times. 2. DUBLIN, IRELAND Nestling in the heart of Ireland, Dublin never fails to reveal exciting new facets of its character. It’s a blend of the past and future. The city has its own unique strokes in its landscape, extraordinary natural legacy, traditions, cuisine and architecture. For those with a more adventurous spirit, Dublin Mountains are the perfect focal point for a great summer mountain biking thrill. And for those who seek some fun in the sun, hit the beach. You don’t want to miss out the fantastic sandy stretches in the greater Dublin area. 20 Identity August 2016
3. RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL By most counts, Rio de Janeiro is one of the first jet-set vacation destinations. This striking transcontinental metropolis is one of the fastest-paced cultural melting pots you can’t bear to miss. For decades, tourists have been making their way down to the Cidade Maravilhosa — the Marvelous City. Various activities turn it into a real treasure on Earth, which must be discovered! 4. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA For the lovers of joyousness and rapture, if you’re on the hunt for a place where an intoxicating mix of showbiz, art, culture and vibrant night life occur, then LA is your ideal landing place. All of these stupendous activities are rolled into this unparalleled city which is also home to the staggering theme parks, Disneyland, Universal Studios, historic Hollywood Boulevard, and the phenomenal Catalina Island. LA is also the top coastal escape for surf, swim and play. 5. VENICE, ITALY Summer time draws in some of the most daunting crowds to the City Of Water, Venice. There’s a reason why they come too, and it has to be the sheer loveliness of this exquisite city bathed in clear light and warmth. A journey that will allow you the chance to wrap the sights, sounds and tastes of Venice around you like a light summer shawl as you soak up the enchanting vibe of the city. You are never more than a bridge and an alley away from a more secluded city.
sunny daze
PLAN THE PERFECT ROADTRIP by Eman Osman
Summer is the best time to do almost anything, but what everyone really wants is to spend time with their friends, family and loved ones. What better way to enjoy your time with them and show them how much you love them than to plan the perfect road trip for them? Here are a few tips for planning an awesome trip; we hope they make the whole job easier and your trip more exciting… KNOW YOUR ROADS! Decide on the places you want to visit and learn exactly how to get there. Even if you’re road tripping in the desert- it’s never fun to get lost and it can start a lot of fights. If you’re not good with roads, rent a car that has GPS or get a tour guide. That way, you can get to learn a bit more about your surroundings. Whether you’re camping in the desert, on a beach or just driving through the cities and country side. MAKE A THEME This one will take a bit of research from you. What are the things you want to see or do? If you’re into fishing for instance, go to popular fishing spots on a fishing themed road trip. If you are a person who really admires their country’s history, go on an ancient Egyptian themed trip and visit all the monuments etc. If you’re very creative, you’ll think of something completely new and crazy that no one has ever done before!
to play together, whether it’s just some cards, board games, football or some genius game you and your friends invent to pass the time. You can even steal some ideas from Buzzfeeds’ “14 Road Trip Games Adults Will Actually Enjoy”. PREPARE THE SNACKS!!!! What kind of trip would it be if you had nothing to nibble on at all times? You should absolutely get an endless supply of snacks and treats, anything from chocolate and sweet biscuits to chips and salty sticks. Juices and soda wouldn’t be such a bad idea either (don’t forget the water though). And what better way to end your day than to grill some meat? SHOPPING After all the hard planning and preparing, reward yourself by buying new summer outfits you can wear on your road trip!
ENTERTAINMENT AND DAILY ACTIVITIES HAVE FUN Road trips will definitely be boring without a few Now, it’s time to relax, enjoy the weather and go have movies to watch together at night or a few books to an awesome summer vacation. read while tanning. You would also need some games
22 Identity August 2016
X-Large Design by Duravit
Offering plenty of extra storage space and extra elegance, the X-Large furniture series is popular with instinctive good taste. For more info please visit our showrooms in Sheraton +2 02 26968700, Designopolis +2 02 38572041 or +2 0238572042, Sharm El Sheikh +2 06 93664162, Hurghada +2 01 001789418 or visit www.duravit.com.eg
W E CA N H E L P YO U I N D E S I G N I N G YO U R B AT H R O O M .
19219
sunny daze
“ARD EL-ELAH” BY AHMED MURAD In “Ard El-Elah”, Murad unveils some of the darkest secrets of the ancient Egyptian civilization. His novel is set in the ancient times of the pharaohs, and it tells the story of an Egyptian priest who stumbles upon papyri paper that tell the story of Moses. This is the second historical novel by Murad after 1919. “EL- WARA2A’ BY ISLAM GAWEESH Islam Gaweesh is a caricature artist and writer well known on social media. His new book is a collection of his caricature and his writing. Gaweesh’s work attracts viewers for its hilarity and satire. He has thousands of followers and his style is incredibly unique.
5
MUST READS THIS SUMMER by Noura Shibl
Whether you’re a bookworm or if you can barely read what’s on the milk carton, these books will surely get your attention. Ranging from caricatures to romance, here are some of the top best sellers both in Arabic and in English this summer:
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“LASKALA” BY NOUR ABDUL MEGID Laskala is an exceptional tale of hope and finding strength. The main character in the book is Yousr. The book tells us her life story, following her childhood till she’s a young woman, and it narrates all of the oppression she went through. Abdul Megid is most know for her book “Oreed Ragolan”; the novel was turned into a tv series that was quite successful earlier this year. “THE WEEKENDERS” BY MARY KAY ANDREWS Set in the small belle island in North Carolina, where there is a mix between the island locals and the “weekenders,” the book explores how Riley Greggs tried to find her husband after he’s gone missing, and in the process she discovers dark secrets about the island. “The Weekenders” is the perfect summer escape” “THE FIREMAN” BY JOE HILL The Fireman is a horror/fantasy novel set in an aftermath of an apocalypse. The novel tells the story of a spore that has killed most of the world’s population and the heroes trying to save the world led by a man known as “The Fireman.” This novel will definitely alter your perspective. One review says, “Surviving the plague might be actually worse than dying to it.”
sunny daze
TEEN SUMMER JOB GUIDE by Nour Nader
In Egypt, we don’t have the luxury to start working from a young age while still in school. That doesn’t mean our children can’t make use of their free time to earn some extra money or gain that craved experience though! Identity’s gathered a few suggested options to help keep your children busy and entertained this summer:
1.
Call Centres
This is probably one of the places that are constantly hiring. Call centre jobs will help your children practice their language skills while learning to be patient and tolerant. They will be dealing with diverse people who put their communication and negotiation skills to the test. Some call centre jobs also have a sales aspect to them, requiring the intern to be convincing and smart. Most telecom companies hire undergrads for jobs like these, most famously, Vodafone.
2.
Internships
If your kid is particularly interested in a specific field, then internships will be perfect. Companies are constantly looking for fresh faces that are willing to learn and develop through their companies. They can find internships in graphic design, writing or even social media. Most fields have the option of interning and that gives students both the benefit of finding
26 Identity August 2016
something to do in the summer and learning more about their field of interest. Here at Identity, we offer summer internships as well, but if media isn’t your thing, big companies like PepsiCo and P&G also offer different types of internships.
3.
Teaching/Tutoring
This is a fun way for them to keep their brains sharp while making a quick buck. Teaching can be very motivating and rewarding. They can help out younger students with a subject they like and are particularly good at. It’s also a lot of fun to have them try creative ways of teaching to make sure they captivate their students and get the message across. This type of job can be done through friend networks, or they could go apply at a learning centre.
Counsellors/ Summer School 4. Camp Supervisors
Camps and summer schools are all the craze in the summer. Counselling/supervising is a great job! It helps a lot in terms of teaching responsibility and it’s still such a fun job to have! They will get to join the camp’s activities while getting paid for it. What could be better than that? Arabella Camp and Fun Yard are some of the camps they could try out.
5. Volunteering Abroad
One of the best things to do is to have them go through the entire experience of being an adult. Volunteering abroad usually makes that possible. They will get to tour another country while living independently and working. Talk about an allencompassing experience! Usually, these types of opportunities come with accommodation and food as well, so they’re also affordable. AIESEC offers this service where they help you find international volunteer jobs.
psychological insights
A ROUTE TO HEALTH THROUGH MEDITATION by Kate Kerpez
Breathe in. Breathe out. This is something we do every day, but we are rarely focused on our breath while breathing. We have other things to think about, like our grocery list, our chores, work schedules and plans with friends. A person meditating, however, is focused only on the action of the present moment: breathing in, and releasing that breath. With this simple practice comes a wide range of psychological and physical benefits. It may seem silly to stop our busy lives for a few moments of what may on the outside appear to be ‘doing nothing’, but meditation actually engages many parts of the brain, including parts that process our automatic actions – the type of actions we perform without thinking, such as walking, or breathing – as well as parts that attend to body processes like blood pressure and digestion. As a result, a regular meditation practice has been linked to a decreased risk of heart attack and stroke, fewer digestive problems, pain reduction and a strengthened immune system. The regular practice of focusing one’s attention on inner peace in the present moment trains the brain to act in that capacity even when a person is not meditating, with one study finding that even just four 20-minute rounds of meditation can produce a reduced pain response. Because meditation can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, it can be an effective treatment for anxiety, depression or anger.
Samatha meditation practice of focusing attention, as it is centred on directing attention towards any object or thought and exploring whatever you have chosen as the centre of your focus, without allowing your thoughts to wander or emotions to take control.
Many guided meditation recordings can be found at contemplativemind.wordpress.com/how-tomeditate-links-for-guided-meditation-practice/ There are also a number of free cellphone apps for guided meditation, including Calm, Headspace, Omvana and Take a Break!, which can be especially useful for people with busy schedules who may find it hard to schedule a 45-minute meditation session. However, it is preferable to be in a relaxing environment with few distractions while meditating. Ideal meditation posture can be sitting cross-legged on a pillow, or sitting on a chair, with hands placed gently on the knees or in the lap. The head should be slightly lowered, with eyes open and the gaze directed downwards. It is most important to be With all of the benefits of meditation laid out before comfortable. Allowing yourself a daily moment of us, it can still be difficult to start a practice. There are peace and relaxation could be the key to a stronger many different types of meditation, so a first step is mind. finding the type that best works for you. Samatha and Vipassana are two popular forms of meditation. Sources: Samatha meditation involves a focus on breathing www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-science-behindin order to quiet the many busy thoughts typically meditation/201507/brains-response-meditation running around in our heads, and focus on stillness www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200105/the-scienceand stability in the present moment. Vipassana meditation meditation may be most effective after developing a www.vimeo.com/19599097 28 Identity August 2016
fashion fever
A GUIDE TO MAKEUP ON THE BEACH tips to follow SKIN-CARE It feels amazing sitting outdoors all day, the sun kissing your skin and wind blowing against your face, knowing you’ll be a bronze goddess after, but all of this can be damaging to your skin. Fear not, with a few skin care tips, you can enjoy the beach with zero worries. If you don’t already exfoliate and moisturize in your daily routine, make sure to add it. You can use the Ole Henriksen Walnut Complexion Scrub. It’s a two-in-one foaming scrub that deeply exfoliates and cleanses to purify pores and smooth the appearance of skin texture. If you’re on a budget, you can make a homemade scrub by mixing a cup of brown sugar with 6 tsp of olive oil and 1tsp green tea, store it in a container and store it somewhere cool on your trip. Exfoliate with circular motions and rinse off with warm water. To moisturize, you can use any face moisturiser like the “Seaweed Mattifying Day Cream” from the Body Shop – their products are natural so it’s always great. Don’t forget the sunscreen; don’t worry you’ll still tan!
Dior - Diorskin Nude Air Tan Powder
NARS “ProPrime MultiProtect Primer
NYX - Strobe of Genius Palette
Maybelline Fit Me
EOS - Lemon Drop Lip Balm Yves Saint Laurent Everlong
Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara”
Lancôme’s “Waterproof Protective Undereye Concealer
Maybelline Mousse Essence - Mousse
Mac - Matte Bronzer
MAKEUP Makeup on the beach has to be pretty light, and you can go a little heavier when you’re going to party. Let’s look at different ways to wear makeup in the morning and at night. 30 Identity August 2016
L’Oreal - Glam Bronze Mac - Whirl
Maybelline - Lash Waterproof Mascara”
BRONZE UP, GLO’ UP Powders are good even in the scorching heat because they don’t melt. To look tan, before you actually tan, use a bronzer and build up as much as you want. L’Oreal “Glam Bronze’s” shades will give your face the warmth you need. Other recommendations: the “MAC Matte Bronzer” or “Dior-Diorskin Nude Air Tan Powder”.
FOUNDATION My advice is, step away from the foundation. As long as you take care of your skin and moisturize, your skin will have the radiance we all long for in the summertime. Prime your skin with NARS “Pro-Prime Multi-Protect Primer”, which has SPF, or any tinted primer. If you have blemishes that you’re not comfortable with, you can use a light concealer, like Lancôme’s “Waterproof Protective Under-eye Concealer”, or a much cheaper option, the LA Girl Pro Concealers.
EYES Go simple. Waterproof mascara and eyeliner is all you’ll need. Mascara does magic, makes your eyes look more alive and gives them a pop. We recommend Maybelline “Lash Waterproof Mascara”, Urban Decay’s “Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara” or Yves Saint Laurent “Everlong.” Take it to the next level with waterproof eyeliner on your waterline. You can use nude or white eyeliner to look more awake, or blue mascara to get that beach vibe.
BROWS ON FLEEK Use powder to fill your brows, and a lash mascara to make sure it stays put. The Body Shop “Brow & Liner Kit” is awesome. Always go a shade lighter than the colour of your hair for a natural look. ELF’s “Clear Brow and Lash Mascara” or NYX’s “Tinted Brow Mascara” are great to make sure your brows remain on fleek throughout the day.
LIPS Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Lipbalm is your best friend. The “Lemon Drop Lip Balm” from EOS is the best for the summer because it has SPF. If you want to wear lipstick, nude and light pink shades make your lips look luscious, but still natural. Try Mac’s “Velvet Teddy” or “Whirl”, or a lip-gloss to keep your lips poppin’. August 2016 Identity 31
fashion fever
HAIR STYLES FOR SUMMER 2016 by Eman Osman & Hana Yousry
KNOTTED PONYTAIL If you’re trying to achieve a simple yet chic look, then a knotted ponytail is definitely in. It could be easily done in 3-5 minutes and will give you the lustrous look you’re seeking. To keep your hair fresh and volumized, use a texturizing spray. It is usually applied on dry hair and you can use it all over your hair before knotting your ponytail. We recommend “L’Oreal’s” texturizing spray.
BEACH CURLS Beach curls are wave-like curves in your hair and that very easily acheivable if you have straight hair. The struggles of curling straight hair lies mainly in the period of time it will last, which can vary depending on the smoothness and thickness of the hair. The softer and thinner the hair, the harder it is to make long lasting curls. But no worries, we have a solution for you! The easiest and most common way to achieve beach curls is to braid your hair before you go to sleep. The next morning, you should be good to go. The only thing you need to do differently is apply wax before braiding your hair! We recommend “Wax Blast 10 High Impact Finishing Spray-Wax” from Redken. It gives you an instant undone texture and you won’t feel the wax. 32 Identity August 2016
CROWN BRAID There are various ways you can make a crown braid and it can be made with almost any hair length. Make a braid around your head, like a crown. The longer the hair, the easier of course. You’ll probably need a few bobby-pins for the crown and a shampoo that smooths and repairs your hair so it will be easier to braid. We recommend you use brands like L’Oreal’s “Elvive Extraordinary Oil Shampoo” or TRESemme’s “Anti-Breakage Shampoo.”
DUTCH BRAID You can never go wrong with a Dutch Braid. It always gives you this adorable look and makes you look much younger than you really are. To braid your hair easily, we believe you should use either “TRESemme’s”, “Garnier’s” or “L’Oreal’s” smoothing serums.
DOUBLE BUN The only thing you need to do here is separate your hair in two halves and make a bun on each side, any way you like. If you have extremely long or thick hair, you can make buns of just the upper section of your hair and leave out the rest. To complete this look, use some hair spray to flatten any hair that sticks out. We recommend using Paul Mitchells’ “Freeze and Shine Super Spray”.
HALF UP TWIST HAIR You can’t figure out how to wear your hair today? Wearing half up twisted hair can always save you from a day where you don’t know what to do with your look. What is phenomenal about this hairstyle is that it can easily work with long or short hair. It also works pretty well with almost any makeup you wear, highlighting your facial beauty and giving you that sexy look. Sometimes, your hair might be a bit frizzy. To avoid this and be able to tame your dry fizzy hair, make sure to use “L’Oreal’s” defrizz serum since it’s the best one out there.
August 2016 Identity 33
fashion fever
HIPS DON’T LIE
There is a fine line between looking trendy and ‘Kim K-esque’- don’t cross it! For a booty that betrays, play up your slender upper body in a gorgeous halter.
Jonathan Simkhai EGP5,401
Marni EGP4,102
Haider Ackermann EGP16,535
THE RIGHT KIND OF TREND
Vika Gazinskaya EGP6,917
by Nahed Kazziha
Fashion aficionados everywhere make the same mistake: we gravitate towards the trendy and new, giving little thought to whether it really emphasizes our best features. If you feel so inclined, embrace whimsical fashion and keep your outfits on point without compromising your best assets. Check out the best go to trend this summer for your body…because we love to do the thinking for you! Splendid EGP1,822
WAIST NOT, WANT NOT The dress fits like a glove…but that waist just won’t fill it out! Sound familiar? In that case, split it up and try out the casual paperbag tie instead.
NLST EGP2,522
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Balenciaga EGP4,101 Current Elliott EGP2,115
Valentino EGP8,433
Stella McCartney EGP7,669 Topshop Unique EGP4,025
AMERICAN FOOTBALL SHOULDERS Are you too wide to comfortably pull off that perfectly adorable cold shoulder look? Ditch it and shift the focus to those slender legs you know you have in a brand new mini. Tory Burch EGP3,426
Miguelina EGP5,096
Rebecca Taylor EGP3,108
LEGS FOR DAYS
Chloe EGP34,013
Ride the off the shoulder trend in a shift dress that will accentuate those stems of yours and lend an illusion of a super tight waistline all at one.
Sea EGP3,758
fashion fever
LOOKS FOR LESS by Nahed Kazziha
In a world where fashion trends are updated by the minute, but your salary is not, staying ahead of the style curve can present a complex financial dilemma: dinner or dress. Enter cost per wear (or CPW)! Buying that classic quality trench that will last you for years instead of a new high street trench ever season will surely recoup your fashion outlay when you wear that coat over the coming decade. The trick with the five minute trend mill and its painfully high CPW is to get the look, without sacrificing your entire paycheck. Here are some key looks you can get without breaking the bank.
PJ ASSORTIS
Zara EGP999
Oysho EGP280
Oysho EGP170
Asos EGP44
Pull & Bear EGP259
3.1 Phillip Lim Resort 17
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COMMANDER CUBANA Pieces EGP127
Mango EGP299
H&M EGP99
Zara EGP299
Chanel Resort 17 Nine West EGP789 Chanel Resort 17
BOHO LOGO Asos EGP102
Zara EGP499
Asos EGP76
Zara EGP199 Bershka EGP399
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MONOCHROME VICTORIANA Ted Baker EGP1,134 Self Portrait EGP3,822
Topshop EGP102
Faith EGP445 Erdem Resort 17
SUNDAY BEST Topshop EGP586
Topshop EGP280
J Crew EGP349
Michael Kors EGP1950
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Gucci Resort 17
KITCHY COOK
Mango EGP199
Illustrated People EGP319
Terry de Havilland EGP1,656
Gucci Resort 17 Glamorous EGP497
ROMAN GLADIATOR H&M EGP399
New Look EGP382
KG by Kurt Geiger EGP1,261 Nine West EGP532 Louis Vuitton Resort 17
TOP: PULL&BEAR 40 Identity August 2016
scorching
Summer Photographer: ABU SAMRA Styling: SARAH NASR – BASSANT MAXIMUS Model: VALERIE MEEUS MUA: DOLLY YANNI special thanks to DAYRA CAMP
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scorching summer
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SKIRT: STYLIST’S OWN August 2016 Identity 43
scorching summer
TOP: PULL&BEAR, SKIRT: STYLIST’S OWN 44 Identity August 2016
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scorching heartfelt discussions summer
DRESS: BERSHKA 46 Identity August 2016
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scorching summer
SKIRT: STYLIST’S OWN 48 Identity August 2016
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SHIRT: PULL&BEAR, DRESS: BERSHKA
scorching summer
DRESS: STYLIST’S OWN 50 Identity August 2016
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summer selections
CRAFTING THE IDEAL BEACH HOUSE by Alia El Saady
Imagine yourself reclining in your beach house as you enjoy the cool sea breeze caressing your skin. You couldn’t be more relaxed and the reason isn’t just because you’re by the sea, it’s because your beach house is your haven of tranquillity and peacefulness. But decorating and furnishing the ideal beach house isn’t an easy task. To perfectly craft your home away from home, you need to promote spaciousness rather than focus on functionality alone. These items are ideal for anyone furnishing their getaway chalet!
OUTDOOR Wood and Jute Hammock - Zara Home Unlike your home back in the city, reclining outside is actually enjoyable when you’re by the beach. Hitching a hammock outside your beach house will give you the opportunity to get some rest and fresh air without having to trek all the way to the beach with your gear. A hammock is ideal for those times when you need an afternoon nap because its rhythmic rocking will definitely lull you to sleep.
Saga Armless Sofa- Roche Bobois This canopied seating by Roche Bobois brings comfort to the outdoors. Accent with colourful pillows to make this sofa pop! 52 Identity August 2016
SOLVINDEN LED solar-powered pendant lamp- IKEA Delicate round paper lantern with blue stripe design, perfect for updating and illuminating an outdoor space.
Ä PPLARÖ/ KLASEN Charcoal barbecue with cabinet- IKEA Nothing says vacation like a good old barbecue! What is unique about this particular model is that it has a functional cabinet that allows you to store serving items, and a table top where you can prepare your meal before firing it up on the grill.
Assembly Home Theia Hanging Planter- Urban Outfitters This sleek hanging planter with a modern geometric design from Urban Outfitter’s Assembly Home collection is perfect for adding a little green to your home. It also looks great by the window side! August 2016 Identity 53
summer selections
INDOOR
Magical Thinking Danie Medallion TapestryMagical Thinking Adding a pop of colour to your space will help give it vibrancy. This is the perfect piece to top off an empty wall space and add decoration without breaking the bank.
The Legend Bookshelf- Roche Bobois Just because you’re at the beach house doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get any summer reading done! This bookshelf is the perfect vacation home accessory, because of its raw design that almost looks like a contemporary tree branch.
Tea Light Holders–BoConcept Do not underestimate the power of decorative candles! These tea light holders give brown colored undertones of light that are sure to give your space the serene vibe you need. 54 Identity August 2016
IKEA PS GULLHOLMEN-Rocking-chair- IKEA This rocking chair from Ikea is an excellent purchase, not only because of its earthy tones and interesting design, but because it’s made from recycled banana fiber. Normally, the banana plant dies once it has produced fruit and is not usually used for anything, but with this product we see it repurposed in a new and innovative manner!
LAX Wall Mounted Headboard and Platform BedLax Series This understated platform bed is designed low to the ground with the bare minimum of components. Pair it with the Storage Headboard to get the complete look.
Crystal Base Lamp- Zara Home This lamp design allows light to escape from its clear crystal base that’s lined with white coloured glass.
Double Door Refrigerator FreezerSmeg Your kitchen is an integral component in your beach house, which means that it should also get the same treatment and attention to decoration as the rest of the house! This refrigerator from Smeg has all the functions of a grade A fridge with the aesthetics of the retro 50’s.
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summer spirit
FAMILY FUN ADVENTURES by Alia Elsaady & Nour Nader
Spending your summer with family is something we all enjoy, but sometimes figuring out what to do is a bit of a hassle, especially when you’ve tried everything already! Which is why, this summer, Identity has got you covered with an action-packed adventure filled vacation to ensure that there’s never a dull moment this summer! 56 Identity August 2016
PAINT BALL An adventure that involves both exercise and fun! Paint ball is the perfect balance between good oldfashioned family time with all the benefits of an adventure. But you’re not just pitted against each other, in teams and shooting at each other. The venue actually sets missions like capturing a fort or having stand-offs, so it’s definitely a family friendly activity that will get your competitive spirits up and get the adrenaline going! There are plenty of paint ball places around Cairo. From 6th of October to Rehab, you’re bound to find one close by. If you’re worried about the heat, this doubles as a great evening activity. AZHAR PARK What sounds better than open gardens and great views combined with great food and company? Nothing, right? Azhar Park is the perfect place to visit with your family for a nice picnic and an evening spent under the moonlight on the grass. All the outdoor activities you’ve so craved in a backyard can be fulfilled there. Whether it’s flying a kite or kicking around a soccer ball, you’ve got the space and the appropriate weather for all your fun needs. You can also visit one of the many restaurants there for a filling dinner and enjoy rolling down the grassy hills along with the kids!
nature of the day. Let your hair loose and release your inner child out; your children will thank you for it. MUSEUM EXCURSIONS Egypt is the land of countless museums and historical sights. You owe it to yourself and your kids to explore all this beautiful country has to offer. If they are more into natural history, they will enjoy the Agricultural Museum in Dokki, which has a huge display of a fossil whale! If you’ve already been to the Egyptian Museum and The Citadel and want to try something off the beaten track, you should definitely pay a visit to the Muhammad Ali Museum in Manial. Its gardens are full of exotic plants which were transported to Egypt by Muhammad Ali from around the world! OUTDOOR CAMPING Sometimes the city can get too bustling. If you want to do something really memorable with your kids, then camping is the best choice! Camping in Wadi El Rayan protectorate is an unparalleled experience. Here, you can also view whale fossils and sleep by the stars which you can’t spot in the city. Or you can visit the Farafra desert which is known for its white sands!
SPA DAY When you need a day to relax, make a point to book a spa day for you and the kids! You can enjoy all the SAND BOARDING treatments together or allow your kids to lounge Take your family and go on a real adventure by going by the pool side while you get your exfoliation and sand boarding. Beat the heat by waking up at the cleansing treatments. The kids will enjoy the luxury crack of dawn and hitting the dunes. This is a fun treatment and get a taste of the adult life every child activity that takes place in a beautiful natural scenery dreams of. The Nile-Ritz Carlton offers excellent spa where you can later star gaze and sit around the fire. treatments and packages, so be sure to check them There is nothing like connecting with nature and out! family at the same time. This gives you the chance to show your kids the natural beauty this country hides ESCAPE ROOMS so well. They will feel like they’ve stepped into a post This activity relies on keen thinking, but it’s definitely card as they enjoy Egypt’s different deserts and their a lot of fun. For a few hours, you and your family unique qualities. You can also ride dune buggies and are trapped in a special themed room with clues camels and have all the desert adventures your little and tasks around the room to help you escape. We heart desires. personally recommend Locked in’s Sherlock Room; it left the Identity Team baffled! The lab themed room FAGNOON DAY in Trapped is also an interesting experience. These Combine art and family and spend a day in Fagnoon. rooms rely on teamwork, so it’ll be fun for the whole The lovely natural getaway offers so many different family. activities you can enjoy. From the pottery to the mud and colour fights, you’re guaranteed old fashion dirty These activities are all great for reconnecting with fun! This is also a good option for you to take on with your family this summer. And with all the variety, family or friends since the more people, the more fun you’re sure to have an action packed season. you’re guaranteed to have! Don’t forget to have the lovely freshly made feteer and embrace the messy August 2016 Identity 57
summer spirit
GRADUATES:
How To Make Use Of Your Last Summer by Amina Moustapha
“Life is not divided into semesters. You don’t get summers off.” Bill Gates set all fresh graduates back on their heels when he announced this essential life rule in one of his speeches. Yikes! So, the summer after your graduation is officially and heartbreakingly your last long vacation. Therefore, summers will no longer begin with finals and end with the start of a new semester. Instead, they’ll begin and end with… well, who knows?! You’re so overwhelmed with the desire to start your new life that you can’t quite figure out what path to choose. Still, as that summer approaches, you may be feeling torn about this being your last chance to travel and spend weeks by the beach with no strings attached. What now? To tell you the truth, there’s no right or wrong decision. We all run our lives in our own course, but if you’re lost, here is a fun productive and healthy scenario to help you figure out the best choice for you. We hope you find it useful: 58 Identity August 2016
1.
TAKE A MOMENT TO ADJUST Don’t let the temptations of today and the fear of going back to the stressful world distract you from INTO YOUR NEW LIFE
You’ve been a student for the past eighteen years of your life (maybe more) and now you’re not, that ought to be perturbing. So, don’t jump right into the workforce after your graduation. It’s not for the sake of having a break, at the finish line of a very long stage in your life, and steps away from the beginning of another. You deserve a moment to look back, learn from your all your mistakes, clear your mind and then start moving on again. Your life is about to change. Emotionally strong people don’t try to avoid change. Instead, they welcome positive change into their life and are willing to be flexible. So take your foot off the throttle and allow yourself to adapt to your new life and then roll with it! It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.
2.
DEDICATE YOURSELF ENJOYMENT
TO
what you deserve.
The first lesson you must learn from your last summer is to take control. Stop saying “I wish” and start saying “I will.” Turn your “can’ts” into “cans” and your dreams into plans. Your last summer is your opportunity to gather your strength, not to draw you back from the real world.
4.
GO ON A HUNT FOR YOUR DREAM JOB
The main reason entering the workforce right after your graduation is not the wisest of steps is, because you have to take the time to dig in and discover what you really want from your life. This is your first time ever to be duty-free. There are no exams to study for or assignments to hand over. You have the time to really figure out what your plan should be. Some believe that experience is the best way to learn what you really love. I agree, but still that doesn’t mean you should jump into the earliest opportunity for the sake of just working. Find what you love now and do it. Maybe in a few months you will discover that it isn’t what you want, but you won’t know until you try. Take the time to figure out what your path might be, search on the Internet, talk to older people, read books, the floor is yours. By doing so, you won’t have to guess what your goal in life is, you will know. Don’t go with the flow and don’t give a single thought to those who furrow their brows disapprovingly of your choices. We work to have freedom, not to let the cultural pressures chain us.
There will never be another “last summer before starting a career” for you, so take advantage of it. What did Eleanor Roosevelt have to say about this? “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been, and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” Let’s not waste this opportunity, and make the best out of it. Water and summer are like vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce, good on their own but better together. Go to the beach, stay up late to look at the stars, enjoy big dinners with your family, go on an adventure or travel on your own. This is a good time in your life to do those things. After this summer, life will never be the same and I mean that in so many good ways. The free time you have now is a great way to get out of the college bubble! Treasure this advantage, but The point is to be bold and fearless. If you want to don’t abuse it. learn to swim, don’t be afraid of getting wet. The world needs new, fresh ideas! The world needs you! You’ll be happier and more proud of your results USE THE BREAK AS A FUEL TO when you take the risk. So take a risk this summer, PUSH YOU FORWARD but pick one you are passionate about. Don’t conform or be afraid to try and fail. Remember, failure is an This pause is your breathing space to important ingredient to success. recharge your battery, but beware it is a double-edge sword. It will allow you to decompress and prepare for your next big move, but also if you weren’t careful Happy summer graduates. enough, it might make it really hard for you to get going afterward. Do you know what happens to your car battery when you stop driving it for a while? It goes power-hungry and then fails to function. The same thing applies to you.
3.
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summer spirit
WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER HOUSE SWAP THIS SUMMER by Amina Moustapha
Why would I let strangers live in my house? Aren’t you worried about people trashing your home? Why not just book a room at a hotel and save myself all the trouble? What if the traded apartment turned out to be filthy?
very different outlook on a place than actually living among the locals who are the essence of any city. The house swap experience immediately makes you part of a new community. Chances are, you and your exchange partner will leave each other’s introductions to friends and neighbours (not recommended but a Questions regarding the home exchange experience nice and smart bonus), which not only yields security can go on and on until the end of time, owing to but also puts you quickly at home in unfamiliar the fact that it is a challenging adventure and every surroundings and can help you get the most out of an adventure must come at a cost. In this case, taking a intercultural experience. leap of faith is the required price. 2. It Will Save You Money (aka More Fun) If you’re not familiar with the house swap What stands between a lot of people and their dream process, it’s simply an alternative means of travel destination are usually the expenses. So, subtracting accommodation, where you arrange to occupy the cost of accommodations from a travel budget someone’s home at your destination and in return he can be the magic spell that will turn this dream into or she occupies yours for a set period of time, with a reality. It goes without saying that affordability is what first draws most house swappers to have a go no monetary-exchange taking place. at this experience. It allows them to experience new Let me add two more questions to your list, maybe places without paying for hotels, restaurants or, in many cases, transportation (the use of the family car my questions will somehow answer yours: is included in many home exchanges).
Why House Swap Might Be What You Are 3. Surprise Will Add A Flavour To Your Trip Looking For: 1. Get The Most Out Of An Intercultural Experience. Staying in a hotel is a nice escape, but it gives you a 60 Identity August 2016
Even if you’re the best planner in town, from time to time we all need to throw away the pen and paper and dive into the unknown. By planning too much for
a trip, sometimes we miss out on the great moments that are unveiling right before us. This adventure does involve a leap of faith. No matter how many Internet pictures have been exchanged, Skype calls, there is always a small rush of anxiety when you open the door to the villa, mansion or apartment concerned, and tentatively walk in, while the children swarm past to claim bedrooms. Yes, you need to stop and smell the roses. 4. It Slows You Down, In a Good Way More often than not, while travelling abroad, we all tend to take in an entire country in one trip. Time is our worst enemy, so we settle for a picture here with this monument, and a day there at that park. We never take it slowly, because we fear missing something. There is nothing wrong with that, but sometimes we need to stop and savour the moment. A house swap is the polar opposite of those 7-citiesin-7-days whirlwind tours. Slowing down affords you the luxury of living in your destination not just visiting it, and allows you to enjoy some downtime without feeling like you should be on your way to the next major attraction. 5. It’s Great Fun For The Kids While adults tend to adore the bliss of hotels, kids on the other hand hate it. For them, it’s a big clean room with no toys and no playroom, in another word, hell. Swapping homes with a family, however, will save you from the living hell experience of packing to travel with kids. You can leave the PlayStation behind, have a reasonable explanation why the scooters and the giant bag of Legos should stay at home. The key is to find a family with kids similar in age to your own so that their bikes, toys, books, and DVDs will be well matched for your brood. Now that we’ve got you dreaming, let’s see how to turn this fantasy into a tangible reality.
How You Can House Swap & What Are The Home Exchange Etiquette: 1. Create & Post Your Listing First thing’s first, register into one of the home swap websites (Knowing the question that had just popped into your mind, the answers is yes, home exchange is available in Egypt). In your listing and in your offer letter that’s emailed to a potential exchange partner, describe your home and family, your neighbourhood, transportation, community facilities and attractions,
anything you can think of to make a swap desirable. You should also upload photos of your home to include with your listing, and remember the golden rule is to always be honest about this information. 2. Find Your Perfect Match Get in touch with swappers who have specified they want to visit your country or city by using the “reverse search” option. Reverse search is designed to look for members who live in the country you wish to travel to and also who reciprocally want to visit your area. Arrange a Skype video call to get a real sense of who these people are, and also to have a good look at their house and make certain they are no spam. Be open about everything from the very beginning, ask lots of questions and make sure you describe any surprises, such as a temperamental toilet or a noisy street. In exchange, you will encourage your swapper to do the same. Honesty is the key to a happy home exchange. 3. Take All The Safety Procedures Before confirming the exchange screen, check your swapper by reading the users’ reviews to know what past swappers thought of the house and the people themselves. Next step, after agreeing to the exchange, put your valuable belongings in an”owner’s closet,” by attaching a latch and padlock on a closet door. Chances are good that your home will be in good hands, because you will be expected to care properly for the home of your trading partner while he or she is staying in yours. A spirit of trust is an essential part of the home swap community, but these safety tips won’t hurt. 4. Never Underestimate Your Home A lot of people hesitate taking the home exchange step thinking nobody will like their homes. That’s a big fat mistake. You never know what people are looking for. Some people who live in a big fancy villa seek the simplicity of living in a small apartment for a change. While others want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and are on the look out for a quiet mansion by the edge of the city. That’s the beauty of house swaping; you can always stay where the grass is greener. Ready to plan your trip? Check out these popular home swap websites: www.homeexchange.com www.homelink.org www.domuswap.com www.lovehomeswap.com August 2016 Identity 61
editorial
A FEAST FOR THE SENSES AT THE NILE RITZ-CARLTON, CAIRO
Drawing from the wealth of flavours and reflecting the city’s appetite for diversity, the restaurants and bars at The Nile Ritz-Carlton offer fertile new grounds for the city’s foodies. THE PATIO Overlooking the azure blues of the hotel’s swimming pool, The Patio is the ultimate in laidback dining. From oriental delicacies to comfort snacks, the menu elevates poolside staples into an art form. BAR’ORO Ancient Egyptians associated gold with triumph and The Nile Ritz-Carlton takes the obsession with the precious metal to the next level, with Bar’Oro – a stylish bar reminiscent of an old-school watering hole complete with a pianist tickling the ivories in the corner. NOX* The rooftop lounge offers breath-taking views of Cairo, showcasing the city that never sleeps in all its glory. At night, Nox offers a vantage point to take in the twinkling lights whilst nursing a custom-made drink. For those looking for something to eat, Nox offers American sharing dishes – the first restaurant in the city to champion this engaging and interact dining concept. CULINA A mouthwatering culinary experience featuring international cuisines with live cooking stations to trigger the taste buds. SWEET BOUTIQUE A treasure trove of treats for those with a sweet tooth, the chocolatier serves up melt-in-your-mouth
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delicacies with panache and passion. BAB EL- SHARQ The signature Arabic restaurant recreates tradition Arabic cuisines including signature grills and savoury baked dishes. Using a traditional wood-fired oven, the restaurant is set in a lush indoor-outdoor garden that helps guests enjoy a pleasant Nile breeze whilst enjoying authentic Arabian flavours. THE LOBBY LOUNGE The heart of elegant dining at The Nile Ritz-Carlton and the Lobby Lounge is a meeting place of minds, flavours and refinement. VIVO The Italian restaurant brings to life the rustic flavours of the Italian countryside in an irrepressibly romantic environment. Overlooking the famous Cairo Tower, the restaurant is a burst of Italian verve in the heart of Cairo. RITZ BAR Intimate and elegant, The Ritz Bar redefines the classics and offers specialty cocktails from the creative minds of our mixologists, in addition to light snacks – all to the backdrop of live music.
FOUKA BAY - WHITE SANDS, TURQUOISE WATERS, LUXURY HOMES Fouka Bay Ras El Hekma opens new opportunities in Phase II of its stunning resort
A destination rich in recreation and wondrous natural beauty, Fouka Bay Ras El Hekma launched its first phase last summer with spectacular success. This Summer, Tatweer Misr is bringing to those seeking to acquire their own perfect getaway home, Phase II of this unrivaled exquisite destination on the white sands of one of the most stunning bays on the Mediterranean Sea. Tatweer Misr has opened a new sales office in the North Coast this summer, at Il Corte Mall in Hacienda White, to exhibit Phase II of this fascinating resort in Ras El Hekma. Guests of all ages can also delight in the diverse number of activities and amenities that Tatweer Misr has provided for your convenience allowing guests to enjoy beach life to its fullest with a range of activities that cater to all ages at the beach of Hacienda White. Fouka Bay brings to fruition Tatweer Misr’s innovative vision of “Contemporary Simplicity” with clusters of “Eye-Shaped” Islands that are ideal for “one” and for “everyone”. Drawing on the ancient tradition where water was the sole deliverer of life, the development offers an abundance of waterfront living options; ranging from waterfront villas, twin houses, town houses, standalone chalets, cabins and bungalows. Spanning nearly a kilometer of exclusive white-sand beaches, framing the tranquil waters of the new and hip destination of Ras El Hekma Bay, on the Mediterranean coast, Fouka Bay is a 1 million square meter destination beach resort offering the perfect summer getaway from the congestion of Cairo. Positioned amongst landscaped gardens, crystal clear lagoons and a mesmerizing backdrop of sea views, Fouka Bay is designed to accommodate a variety of housing options that foster community living at its best. All housing options at Fouka Bay are aesthetically designed to provide you with the epitome of contemporary simplicity complimented by an idyllic lifestyle. Seamlessly nestled into floating landscapes of private lagoons and sea views, homes boast wide glass facades that take in sufficient amounts of sunlight and lush garden views. All units are designed to the highest degree of luxury; a spaciously comfortable layout; and a design aesthetic that combines functional beach simplicity with true elegance. August 2016 Identity 63
editorial
RENAISSANCE CAIRO MIRAGE CITY HOTEL: LIVE LIFE TO DISCOVER!
Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel celebrated its fifth annual Global Day Of Discovery with an unforgettable evening on the Nile. It’s time to live life to discover! As across the global, Renaissance Hotels far and wide got ready to celebrate their fifth annual #GlobalDayOfDiscovery, the Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel embraced Ramadan for a weekend of culture, fun, food and relaxation.
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THE GRILL RESTAURANT & LOUNGE AWARDED 2016 TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE Recognized as a Top Performing Restaurant as Reviewed by Travelers on the World’s Largest Travel Site Semiramis Intercontinental Cairo today announced that it has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award for The Grill Restaurant & Lounge. Now in its sixth year, the award celebrates excellence in hospitality and is given only to establishments that consistently achieve great traveller reviews on TripAdvisor.
NISSAN GT ACADEMY SEASON II OFFICIALLY BEGINS IN EGYPT, MOROCCO & ALGERIA Nissan’s GT Academy and PlayStation® are proud to announce the kickoff of live events in Egypt starting from the 21st of July to the 15th of August. Tonight’s first kick off will take place at Porto Marina, North Coast. Last week, Nissan celebrated its second year of GT Academy’s success at the opening ceremony in Marrakesh. GT Academy’s first phase of live events opens in shopping malls and other venues across Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria.
EMIRATES NBD - EGYPT AFFIRMS CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS IN EFFECT ABROAD Sahar El Damati, Deputy Managing Director & Board Member at Emirates NBD – Egypt, stated that Emirates NBD – Egypt’s credit and debit cards are still used abroad, and will not be disabled at all. The bank has carried out studies and set credit limits on cards. Additionally, Emirates NBD – Egypt will soon introduce foreign currency cards.
PLAN YOUR WEEK-END IN ALEXANDRIA THIS SUMMER : Whether you are planning your holiday in Alexandria Egypt for a relaxing time off or a business mission, there is one important thing you should take care of before you leave, that is choosing a good hotel to stay in. Alexandria which is so called the jewel of the Mediterranean is truly rich with a list of old and modern fabulous hotels in the different areas of the city; the downtown, the corniche or the suburbs.
IKEA CELEBRATES SUMMER IN AMWAJ IN THE NORTH COAST IKEA is spending the summer in Amwaj Sidi Abdel Rahaman in the North Coast, beautifully turning a villa into a showroom to showcase its latest and trendiest summer collection. This summer IKEA thinks should be all about expanding the home and seeing home surroundings through new eyes. One can embrace summer by infusing new color hues in the garden, summer house, chalet, on the roof top; or simply just to flavor up one or two rooms in the house.
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bits & pieces
CHOCOHOLIC’S CITY GUIDE Ahead of World Chocolate Day on AIR ARABIA EXPANDS ITS 7 July, British Airways shares its AN UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY GETAWAY AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL EUROPEAN ROUTE NETWORK top chocolate Destinations in the SOMA BAY WITH THE LAUNCH OF NEW UK and Europe SERVICES TO BATUMI Still fantasising about a magical Airline touches down in Batumi For chocolate lovers, Europe offers family holiday away from the city’s – which is rising fast as a tourism an abundance of places to visit hustle and bustle to unplug from hotspot and indulge. To celebrate World your busy work schedule? Think Chocolate Day on Thursday 7 no more and plan to take some Air Arabia, the Middle East and July, British Airways has created time out to pamper yourself and North Africa’s first and largest a list of places to visit in the UK, your loved ones and to indulge low-cost carrier, touched down in Belgium, France and Switzerland in a charming atmosphere that Batumi, the second largest city of for travellers with a sweet tooth. is bathed in brilliant sunshine in Georgia. an incomparable location with stunning views of the Red Sea.
“GINGER” THE ASIAN RESTAURANT CELEBRATING 3 YEARS AT HILTON ALEXANDRIA GREEN PLAZA Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza recently held a cocktail reception to celebrate the 3rd birthday of “Ginger” Asian Restaurant, offering its valuable guests a unique dining experience from Chinese, Malaysian, Thai, Singapore, Indonesian, Vietnamese, as well as Japanese Sushi and Sashimi. 66 Identity August 2016
MAJID AL FUTTAIM‘MAKE A DIFFERENCE’ RAMADAN CAMPAIGNMARKS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR IN DONATIONS City Centre Alexandria and City Centre MaadiLend a Helping Hand to the Underprivileged Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East and North Africa, launched the10thannual ‘Make a Difference’ Ramadan Campaignin June 2016 across the region. In Egypt, the donations collected at City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi amounted to the total of EGP487,456.
JUMEIRAH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT AND SAKAN DEVELOPMENTS UNVEIL JOINT VENTURE “JUMEIRAH BAY- RAS AL HEKMA” Jumeirah Real Estate Investment and Sakan Developments unveiled their joint venture and flagship project “Jumeirah Bay- Ras Al Hekma”, North Coast. Located at the heart of Ras Al Hekma Bay area, the 6,000,000m² projects will offer a unique mixed-use development with an investment of 15 billion EGP. The resort, which will be delivered over three phases.
IN COOPERATION WITH 45 ORPHANAGES MCDONALD’S EGYPT DRAWS A SMILE ON THE FACES OF EGYPTIAN ORPHANS IN RAMADAN FOR THE SECOND YEAR 60 BRANCHES IN DIFFERENT GOVERNORATES INVITE MORE THAN 1500 ORPHANS OVER IFTAR
HIS EXCELLENCY MINISTER OF TOURISM AT SAFIR HOTEL CAIRO
EL NENNY AT THE CAIRO MARRIOTT FOR THE AFRICAN Safir Hotel Cairo hosted His ZONE FINAL QUALIFICATIONS Excellency Mr. Yehia Rashed, DRAW FOR 2018 FIFA WORLD Minister of Tourism during his CUP RUSSIA honorable presence to the Egyptian Tourism Authority The African Zone Final Qualification Meeting, which ended with an Draw for the 2018 FIFA World iftar party, in the presence of Mr. Cup Russia was held at The Cairo McDonald’s Egypt branches Samy Mahmoud President of Marriott Hotel for yet another invited more than 1,500 children Egyptian Tourism Authority. photo historic event at Aida Ballroom. during Ramadan as part of its CSR shows His Excellency Mr. Yehia Reporters lined up around the campaign for the second year, Rashed, Minister of Tourism with stage to witness Mohamed El which aims to draw a smile on the Mr. Hussein Shoukry, Area General Nenny , the Arsenal Star who was faces of Egyptian orphans and help Manager – Safir Hotels Egypt and present to participate in the draw! them integrate into the society. Mr. Ahmed Seleit, Director of Sales The campaign was launched in and Marketing while welcoming cooperation with 45 orphanages His Excellency upon arrival. in Cairo and different governorates all around Egypt.
MAXIM PALACE HAVE A “PAW-SOME” SUMMER HOLIDAY AT FAIRMONT NILE CITY WITH HAMLEYS YOUR SUMMER GETAWAY OVER Fairmont Nile City and the world’s THE NILE finest toy shop, Hamleys, are once AT KEMPINSKI NILE HOTEL again collaborating to bring you the best surprises throughout the Summer season is that time of the summer. year, which we all wait for, and welcome with great enthusiasm Enjoy a fun-packed vacation for and joy. Indeed, there is no all family members when booking better season when you can fully your stay at Fairmont Nile City and enjoy a memorable vacation with get a complimentary gift for each your family, friends and beloved child. Treats range from Hamleys ones. At Kempinski Nile Hotel, as teddy bears, action figures, dolls, perfection is achieved by paying and activity boxes ensuring a extra attention to details. pleasant stay for your children of all ages and genders.
With summer approaching, there is no better way to surprise loved ones than by whisking them off for an exciting weekend. Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski offers a whole host of specially designed packages to suit all tastes and needs. For those that aren’t able to get away for the actual beach or resort, there are plenty of other special summer-themed treats to please you and your loved ones when you’re least expecting it! There is no better way to skip the pressures of your success. The Palace has set for you the ultimate getaway every weekend of your summer. August 2016 Identity 67
your star LEO
July 23 – August 22
Strengths: Confident, ambitious, generous, loyal, encouraging. Weaknesses: Pretentious, domineering, and melodramatic. Most Compatible with: Aries, Gemini, Libra and Sagittarius. How to Attract Leo: The way to a Leo’s heart is through admiration. Leos thrive on compliments and love being the centre of attention, so if you act like their biggest fan, a Leo will be sure to notice.
Horoscopes
LIBRA
You will be over-stretched at work and things might be hectic at home this month– don’t try to be Superman.
SCORPIO
ARIES
TAURUS
This month will be full of obstacles, and barriers to get through. Your strength, commitment and belief will be put to the test.
GEMINI
There may be difficulties keeping everyone around you happy this month as you are pulled between commitments and obligations to people.
CANCER
Use this time to work through your emotions. Find a good friend you can talk to. Try not to hold back. Let someone take care of you for a change.
LEO
You are likely to be feeling brave this month, which means you can tackle people or tasks you would normally avoid.
August 2016 is a very good time to reflect on particular moments from your past and see them in a new light.
SAGITTARIUS
If you’re making big plans now, you may just find that the best times come out of unexpectedly good moments which take no planning.
CAPRICORN
This month will be topsy-turvy for the Capricorn. Someone you once trusted and cared about may disappoint you, and you may part ways.
AQUARIUS
This is a really good month for pampering, being lazy, and treating yourself. Be ready to indulge, but don’t go overboard.
This is a highly significant month for the Leo, where the sky is the limit for what you can achieve. Your PISCES personality will inspire others to support you. This is a month when you may feel bombarded with conflicting information. You should be open to advice from others this August; it will help you vastly. VIRGO You are likely to meet new people in the next few months. These people will enrich your life and broaden your understanding of the world. 68 Identity August 2016