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NOVEMBER 2014 - 15 L.E. VOLUME 10, ISSUE 2
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TRENDS FAMOUS DESSERT PLACES IN CAIRO
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+MAKE YOUR OWN SUSHI
ULTIMATE
DOS & DON’TS OF
FOOD
bringing cuisines from all around the world!
TO LOVE IT
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I t ’ s f u n , I t ’ s f a m I ly, It’s showtIme … Weekends at the Marriott bring it all together as our chefs man the grills to cook up a storm and rewrite the ‘BBQ’ menu for the best Brunch in town. Try the chipotle and smoky sweet beef ribs, grilled fish in banana leaves or Moroccan baby lamb chops to go with Mexican and Jambalaya rice. There are veggie options too plus the traditional ‘BBQ’ favourites. Join the ‘Brunch Bunch’ on Friday & Saturday at the Garden Promenade Café.
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EDITOR’S NOTE
WWW.IDENTITY-MAG.COM
NOVEMBER 2014 - 15 L.E. VOLUME 10, ISSUE 2
F
ALL ASHION
TRENDS FAMOUS DESSERT PLACES IN CAIRO
the
+MAKE YOUR OWN SUSHI
ULTIMATE
DOS & DON’TS OF
On The Cover
FOOD
bringing cuisines from all around the world!
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & PHOTOGRAPHER BATOOL AL DAAWI MODEL HEBA EL DESSOUKY FASHION DESIGNER SARA HEGAZY FASHION STYLIST FARAH EL SAYED MUA SOHA KHOURY HAIR RAFI FROM AL SAGHEER SALONS COVER DESIGN MOHAMED MAHER
N
ovember… Change of seasons… Mood swings = Food Autumn is the most depressing of seasons. It sucks your energy and eats your soul. All we do is sit on the couch and eat, that’s why we thought of something different this month, we dedicated this issue to FOOD; our soul mate in the worst times ever. Do not despair; it doesn’t last for long!
It’s all about food! You name it. You’ll find recipes, tips from nutritionists, cooks (By Fayrouz and Lulu’s kitchen), reviews…etc. But we didn’t forget the latest fashion trends of the season and a review on fashion forward Dubai event. We love EGYPT highlighted in this months glamorous fashion shoot in the historical Cataract Hotel in Aswan. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
Rola Kamel
FOUNDER & CEO
FOUNDER & CEO ROLA KAMEL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NAWAL ISMAIL SENIOR EDITOR SANDRA RIZK JUNIOR EDITOR MENNA EL KADY, SHADDEN EL BANNA, MIRANA TERA RELATIONSHIP EXPERT MARWA RAKHA SOCIOLOGY EXPERT MICHAEL RYAN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS NEVINE A. ABAZA, ALIA ASKALANY FASHION BLOGGER NOHA YOUSSEF NUTRITIONIST & LIPTON’S CLEAR GREEN BRAND AMBASSADOR FAYROUZ NASSER EID GRAPHIC DESIGNER MOHAMED MAHER MARKETING AND ADVERTISING MANAGER RIHAM YEHIA MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA EXECUTIVE NOURHAN YEHIA DIGITAL SALES AHMED HICHAM WEBSITE COMPANY QPIX SOLUTIONS DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES SKY NET & AL AHRAM PRINTING HOUSE INTERNATIONAL PRINTING HOUSE (IPH) IDENTITY MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS ASHRAF FOUAD & ESSAM IBRAHIM 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. Published by Beezarre Publishing Ltd. Themistokli Dervi, 6 Papyros Building, 4th Floor, Flat/Office D5 – P.c 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus. 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 8 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
CONTENTS
IDENTITY’S LIST
BEAUTYHOLIC
POINT OF VIEW
8 OUR FAVOURITE ORIENTAL
22 BEAUTY ON A BUDGET
42 US VS. THEM
RESTAURANTS
INSPIRED FASHION
INTERVIEW
HOW TO…
24 FAMISHED & FASHIONABLE
12 HOW TO INCLUDE MORE
FASHION TREND
VEGETABLES AND FRUITS IN YOUR
25 ESSENTIALS FOR PULLING OFF A
DIET
LAYERED OUTFIT
LOVE ADVICE
26 WHAT TO WEAR
14 WEIGHT WATCHERS INTIMACY
16 TOP 10 APPETIZING APHRODISIACS
FASHION TRENDS
28 FALL 2014/2015 FASHION TRENDS
CULINARY ART
FASHION REPORT
18 YOUR GUIDE TO MAKING YOUR
30 WHY I DIDN’T GO TO FASHION
OWN SUSHI
FORWARD DUBAI
INTO THE DEEP
HIGH FASHION
20 FOOD FOR THOUGHT
32 SHADES OF CLEOPATRA
10 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
44 LULU’S: A CREATIVE CULINARY CUISINE
45 PARING FOOD FLAVOURS 46 WARM YOUR WINTER WITH MOUTH WATERING RECIPES FOOD GUIDE
48 FAMOUS DESSERT PLACES IN CAIRO
50 BRINGING CUISINES FROM ALL AROUND THE WORLD
53 REVIEWS 55 TECHNOLOGY 58 OUT AND ABOUT 64 FASHION HOROSCOPE
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO
SMILE Dr. Mohamed Emad Tel: 01110551777 - 01066777295 Address: 123 Hassan El Ma’mon st., in front of El Ahly Sporting Clup, Nasr City, Cairo
KOSHARY EL TAHRIR (KOSHARY)
OM HASSAN (ORIENTAL)
KEBDET EL PRINCE (ORIENTAL)
KABAB EL REFAEY (KABABGY)
BABA ABDO (MACARONA)
BA7A (KAWARE3)
AMO HOSNY (SHAWERMA)
ABOU TAREK (KOSHARY)
IDENTITY’S LIST
OUR FAVOURITE ORIENTAL RESTAURANT
12 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
HOW TO...
HOW TO INCLUDE MORE VEGETABLES AND FRUITS IN YOUR DIET
Rushing through our busy lives we often take the easy way out, ordering fastfood, eating processed products, and ready made meals. We have no time to waste, we have no energy to go every day to the store to buy fresh produce, so we stuff ourselves with food-like things that provide us with little or no nutritional value, while risking our own lives and the lives of our families, plaguing ourselves with heart diseases, diabetes, cancers, and more. Our way out is to try to find a way, a practical and easy way, to include more fruits and vegetables in our busy schedule, to provide our bodies with the nourishment it needs. FAST FOOD: THE REAL DEAL Bananas are the go-to food for any health advocate. Its easy to just grab a few bananas, stash them in a plastic zip-bag, and keep them in your bag, your car, office, or whatever place you need. Just peel and eat, it doesn’t get any faster than that! You can do the same with any other fruit, pre-wash them and take them in a bag or box for whenever you need a good snack, its definitely better than munching on empty processed calories. ORGANIZE We often feel like eating something light and nutritious but are too lazy to wash and make a salad, soup, or whatever else. With some organisation this will not be a problem. Wash your vegetables and fruits, prepare them,
cut them if needed, and stack them in boxes in the fridge, that way it would be super easy to make a fresh salad in no time. Do this prepping twice a week and you will always have fresh, nutritious, healthy food all the time, GO SHOPPING To be able to organize your fruits and vegetables you actually need to have fruits and vegetables. Go shopping, spend most of your time in the produce aisle, pick out the freshest and your favorite. Don’t be afraid to explore new things, get inventive, adventurous with your shopping, you will enjoy it. ALTERNATIVE SHOPPING If you don’t have time to do this, you can always shop online, there are many health store websites that provide you with the luxury of online shopping. There are places that deliver a box filled with their freshest produce right to your doorstep, once or twice a week, as needed. Explore your options and find what works best for you. BLEND ALL YOU CAN Smoothies are a great way to start the day. Combine your favorite fruits, with some nuts, flaxseeds, spices (cinnamon, YUM!), and a liquid (water preferably, juice, or healthy milks). Smoothies are not only delicious, but will keep you filled up for long. If you are always on the go, find a reusable travel cup that you like, and you are good to go. TWEAK THE RECIPES Whatever the recipe is, think about a way to add fruits and vegetables to it. Shred, cut, blend, or whatever you think would be best. Add color. texture, and nutrition to every meal you have.
16 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
Nevine A. Abaza
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
LOVE ADVICE
WEIGHT WATCHERS Dear Laila, As I read your question, I kept wondering about your husband’s stance from such recurrent episodes of humiliation and indignation. He could easily put an end to his family’s behavior and spare you the torture. Since your original question does not mention your husband, then I will assume that he does not know, does not care, or does not know what to do about it. If you were born and raised in Egypt, then you ought to be familiar with many Egyptians’ discriminatory tendencies. Some Egyptians think it’s alright to openly say that darkskinned people are disgusting, that over-weight people are pathetic, or that people with special needs are repulsive. Many who do not have the audacity to tell the world of their obnoxious thoughts; thus, they refer to black humor.
I am in my twenties, and recently married. Despite the fact that I love my husband dearly, it feels as though his family does not accept me because. I am overweight. Even though I like the way I look, and accept myself, I am subjected to humiliation and rejection by my husband’s family. Every time I visit my in-laws, they crack hurtful jokes at my expense. They mock my weight in a way that deeply hurts me. They can go as far as saying “Let’s hurry up and eat before she gulps everything”.. I love my body, and feel quite confident about my looks. I was not aware that my weight was a prerequisite for my in-laws’ acceptance. . I come from a good family, I’m a good religious wife but all that seems irrelevant and tiny compared to my weight issue. Please help!!
There are so many sadistic jokes about people from Upper Egypt, about women who want to get married, about women who do not want to get married, about sensitive body parts, about skin color, about religion, about hair, and about personal habits. Huge bulks of the Egyptian population think it’s cute, smart, and street-wise to make fun of others. Some consider it a perfect ice-breaker; others hide their own insecurities behind a mask of sick humor. I’m sure you’ve seen how the picture of the man in his underwear on the beach went viral giving everyone the right to judge him! Remember that Egypt Air hostess who was pictured off-guard and people either mercilessly made fun of her or pitifully defended her! Remember all those before and after pictures of actors and singers and how people enjoy ripping them apart! Remember how one cabinet minister asked the Egyptian Parliament’s special needs’ representative for translation because she is unable to comprehend the disabled! Bottom-line: Making fun of others and hurting their feelings is a form of bullying and ought to be punishable by law! How to handle your bullies? 1) Ask your husband to interfere! It’s his duty to protect you from bullying and harassment! 2) Ask your in-laws directly and firmly to stop! Use a strong yet composed tone of voice to tell them that you do not appreciate being made fun of and that they are setting a bad example for the children they expect you to have with their son. 3) In your mind, make a conscious decision to deprive them of the power they have over you; in your mind tell them that they could no longer hurt you with their sneaky remarks. Tell yourself that you are immune. Remind yourself that they are nobody and imagine their words breaking into tiny little molecules and dissipating into outer space where no one would ever hear them! 4) You could also give them a taste of their own medicine! Detecting someone’s insecurities and shaming them over it is the easiest trick in the book. No one is perfect! What is wrong with them? Find out what hurts them and poke it! You could use a combination of all the above and I would kindly ask you to refrain from stooping as low as they did!
Marwa Rakha
Laila
RELATIONSHIP EXPERT
18 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
INTIMACY
TOP 10 APPETIZING APHRODISIACS Whether you are whipping up a nice dish for your partner or just trying to get your mojo flowing before an important night, these aphrodisiacs won’t leave you hanging.
1. OYSTERS: Not only are they appealing in shape and textures, oysters are also high in zinc, which in turn, increase testosterone. 2. CHOCOLATE: Aaah, sweet and sinful. Chocolates high in cocoa helps the brain secrete endorphins, the happy chemicals! 3. HOT CHILLY PEPPERS: It is a known fact that spicy foods help in making people feel hot, flushed and increases the heart rate. Guess where else these feelings emerge? Yes, you’re right: THE BEDROOM!
4. FIGS: Juicy, plump and fleshy, these fruits are sensual and erotic. 5. ALMONDS: Known to boost libido and sperm count. 6. HONEY: Better known as “The Food of Gods” when mixed with nuts, fruits, eggs or meat, it creates some of the best turn-on dishes. 7. ASPARAGUS: Regardless of being formed in the shape of a phallus, asparagus is also rich in Vitamin A, phosphorous, calcium and potassium thereby officially is classified as a booster of sexual drive. 20 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
8. BANANAS: Again phallus shaped and the hero of many jokes, bananas are great aphrodisiacs rich in potassium and natural sugars. 9. MUSHROOMS: Ok, we will not say what they look like; however, we can confidently say that mushrooms are rich in zinc and serve as a great source of sexual energy. 10. MANGOS: If we can call any fruit “divine”, it would most definitely be the mango. It is easily digestible, strength giving, and has a very arousing sweet smell.
CULINARY ART
YOUR GUIDE TO MAKING YOUR OWN SUSHI Who doesn’t love an amazing sushi roll on a chilly night in? With the beginning of winter waltzing in, ditch home delivery and start cooking yourself because sushi is as easy as ever with these 11 steps to making your own delicious, homemade sushi. ALL YOU NEED ARE THE FOLLOWING INGREDIENTS: • Fish (whether it is salmon, tuna, crabsticks or whichever you prefer). • Extra fillings and toppings (according to your preference: avocado, cucumber, cream cheese, caviar) • Sushi Rice • Unsalted, Dry Seaweed (known by the name Nori) • Rice Wine Vinegar • Sugar • Salt • Bamboo Mat ADDITIONS: Soy Sauce, Teriyaki Sauce, Ginger and Wasabi. … And you’re good to go! 1. Select two kinds of vegetables and a fish.
7. Pour the vinegar, salt and sugar mixture onto the sugar and start mixing with a wooden spoon. Add more rice vinegar for if you want grains of rice to separate easier. 8. Put seaweed layer on the bamboo mat and start spreading the rice on top of it. The rice should be spread evenly in the middle third of the mat so that there would be no holes for the sushi roll not to crumble. Having done that, dampen the end edge of the bamboo mat with rice vinegar so it sticks when you roll it. Add the strips of vegetables and fish onto the rice. 9. Roll the bamboo into a roll using your mat by holding the bottom third in then rolling it up.
2. Place two cups of sushi rice in a rice cooker and keep rinsing until the rice water is clear.
10. Cut down the middle of the roll, take each half and place them parallel to each other so that you cut them evenly in a simultaneous pattern.
3. Wash the vegetables and place them on a cutting board then cut the vegetables vertically into long, skinny strips.
11. Decorate with extra toppings of your preference (if you want) and serve.
4. Cut the fish into same vertical strips and make sure they are even in length. 5. Check on rice and when ready, put it on a dish. 6. In a bowl, pour in about two tablespoons of rice vinegar. Do not put extra until you have tried two tablespoons first, then add according to your preference. Then add in pinch of sugar and another of salt. 22 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
INTO THE DEEP
Food
FOR THOUGHT
24 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
Food plays a pivitol role in our lives. That is something we don’t really have to think about. But what we do have to think about is how and why food can be found at the center of so much of our daily existence. Sure we eat it to survive, because it tastes good, because we need energy, because our mothers told us to, and for other reasons where its’ nutritive, caloric, additive, and other contents are the main concern. There are, however, many other ways in which the importance of food surrounds us, even outside of the kitchen. It is a source of ritual, a tenet of religion, a marker of social class, a political debate, a source of both pollution and regrowth, a reason for communing, a marker of imperialism, a means of cross-cultural exchange, and at the unnoticed center of nearly every aspect of our everyday lives. There are few social gatherings that don’t revolve around food in some way. If we want to socialize with someone – whether for friendly, familial, political, professional, or romantic reasons – we often invite them to dinner. The presence of food gives us an “excuse” to engage in social interaction. But more than just simply food, it is the kind of food that is present at these events that can dictate their intent. If I have my family or friends over for dinner I would be comfortable serving Koshary and chicken soup. If I have my boss or a romantic interest over for dinner, however, I would probably stick to steak and stuffed mushrooms. Building from the above, we can see that food is an indicator of social class. It is apparent that where one is able to eat is a good indicator of their socioeconomic background, but just as important is what one is able to eat. Many in the lower classes, for example, are rarely able to afford meat (the recent Eid holiday being one of the only times a year that many in this country are able to eat meat at all) while the upper classes often find their stomachs a bit unnerved by food from the local street vendors. The lower classes have a diet which consists of more bread (hence why bread, not poultry or desserts, is subsidized by the government) while the upper classes are often familiar with a variety of international cuisines. Simply having knowledge of food can be seen as a sign of social class and being able to eat it is a confirmation of your economic position in society.
Food is also at the center of many religions and religious traditions. Muslims avoid pork products but eat beef while Hindus avoid beef but eat pork. Observant Jews require that their food be prepared in a certain way and that only certain kinds of foods can be eaten together. Catholics have a tradition of eating fish on Fridays and ceremoniously eat bread and drink wine (sometimes substituted with grape juice) during communion believing it symbolizes the body and blood of Christ. There are few religions in the world that don’t mandate some kind of regulation surrounding food. Politics are another important area of social life dominated in many ways by food. The import and export of food (Egypt is the world’s largest importer of wheat) can have economic and political implications. The use of land to grow export “cash crops” rather than food for local citizens also has consequences whereby satisfying the needs of an international market for the sake of the economy is placed above the needs of feeding local citizens who might be starving. The use of certain foods – most recently corn – as a biofuel instead of something intended for human consumption has been at the center of political debate in many countries in recent years. Cocoa, a plant consumed by indigenous peoples in the South American Andes for centuries, is now considered a dangerous crop by the United States who have demanded (and in some cases illegally forced) its eradication leading to serious political friction. And just to show that the debates around food are ever proliferating – recent years have seen a sharp rise in the number of concerns over genetically modified foods and their as-yet unknown long-term effects on human beings. Food, it seems, is about much more than just eating. It is about social interaction. It is about class. It is about religion. It is about politics. It is about as many things as there are things to be about. So the next time you decide to eat at McDonald’s instead of the corner vendor, or have stuffed pigeon instead of foul, or fill your car up with corn-based diesel fuel, think about the implicated consequences of your decision. And in the meantime, bon appetit!
Dr. Michael Ryan
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY IN CAIRO
Beauty BEAUTYHOLIC
ON A BUDGET
With Egypt on the fast track to becoming a regional shopping destination, it’s as easy to lose your mind, as well as your hard earned money. Advertising billboards promoting internationally renowned names are popping up all over our streets, from L’Oreal & Maybelline, to Dior & Guerlain!
As makeup fanatics, we realize how hard it has become to afford the products we love and got accustomed to, especially in Egypt where cosmetics are being sold at triple their original price. You would pay 600 LE for the Urban Decay Naked Palette if you purchase it locally, but only the mere equivalent of 357 LE if you get it abroad. The fact that a few corporations own most brands, often gives you the choice of buying less expensive alternatives of your favorite makeup product. Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford, M.A.C. & Clinique are all owned by Estee Lauder, while Urban Decay and Lancôme are owned by the L’Oreal Group. Meaning, your alternatives are not only less costly, but are more often than not a near replica of the original. You can be just as glamorous without breaking the bank!
Spend on Save on BLUSH POWDER SHADOW FOUNDATION BRUSHES PRIMERS SKIN CARE
MASCARA CREAM EYESHADOW LOOSE POWDER NAIL POLISH LIPSTICK LIPGLOSS
26 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
US
YVES SAINT LAURENT TOUCHE ECLAT
DIOR SHOW MASCARA
M
BOBBI BROWN EYELINER
27 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
REVLON SASSY MAUVE LIPSTICK
LU VO L EA LOR
O MIN
A
AR ASC
CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICKS
MAC SYRUP LIPSTICK MAYBELLINE GEL LINER COVER GIRL LIP PERFECTION
MAYBELLINE DREAM LUMI
INSPIRED FASHION
FAMISHED & FASHIONABLE
DOLCE & GABBANA
designers have the ability to draw inspiration from most creative visual aspects, from flora and fauna to the grunge inspired streets of London. They can transform their inspirations to reality via stunningly jaw-dropping clothes. Recently, fashion houses have been drawing Inspiration from the food sitting in your fridge. Leaving the fabulous floral patterns and the grungy abstractness to the past, it’s all about fashion inspired foods.
CHANEL
CHANEL CLAIRE’S
ANYA HINDMARCH
RASPBERRY INSPIRED BAG KOBI LEVI 28 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
MOSCHINO
PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY IPHONE CASE
5
FASHION TREND
ESSENTIALS FOR PULLING OFF A LAYERED OUTFIT
Layering is not only trendy this fall, but also so much fun, and the best part is that you can adjust your layers according to the weather. The only problem is that you need to know how to make it look hot rather than fugly.
Here are the layers you need inside out: 1. A fitted undershirt. Preferred solid, neutral or striped.
3. A light cardigan
2. A shirt is a must and can be worn in many ways. Denim is a very good choice.
4. Add a Leather bike jacket or an oversized coat for the final layer. Go with a basic colour (camel, black, grey or olive)
5. Then, throw on a scarf. It adds colour, texture and keeps you warm. 29 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
WHAT TO WEAR
What to wear 1 1 New Look Diamond Navette Chandelier Earring
Oscar De La Renta Dec metallic jacquard pumps
New Look Persian Princess Necklace
Michael Kors Chronograph Watch
Topshop Floral Paisley Strap Jumpsuit
She Inside Backless Dress
2
Christian Louboutin Cutout Leather Wedge Sandals
2
ASOS Triangle Drop Earrings
Givenchy Sara leather sandals
She Inside Sheer Blouse
ASOS Wedge Ankle Boots Michael Kors Faux LeatherFringed Jersey Dress
TIU Nile City Towers
Name: Place: Finally, Egypt’s nightlife is coming back with this incredible place owned by three of the best organizers in Egypt! Are you ready to PARTY?
The Garden Heliopolis
Oh My Love High Waisted Shorts
Name: Place: This bar is the perfect place to hang out with your friends and enjoy some good music, day or night!
30 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
FOR 2014’S BEST SPOTS IN favourite places to go and EGYPT! This year’soutfit inspirations!
1
1
Topshop Skinny Rib Crop Tee
Giuseppe Zanotti Wedge Sneakers
Topshop Fluffy Cornelli Tee ASOS Hole Detail Jeans Belt
ASOS Occasion Clutch Bag
Oasis Sara Metal Bar Satchel
2
Moto Indigo Long Leg Dungarees
Moto Pretty Bleached Ripped Hayden Jeans
2
Asos Dino Flatform Trainers Motel Helene Jumpsuit See By Chloé Leather Wedge Ankle Boots
Asos Chain Hoop Earrings
The Lemon Tree & Co. Zamalek
Anna Sui FloralPrint Georgette Kimono
Name: Place: Enjoy a delicious lunch while watching the incredible view of the Nile River.
Boulevard Heliopolis
Name: Place: Try out the best Shisha in town in this outdoor/ indoor café.
31 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
Lot78 StretchJersey Maxi Dress
FASHION REPORT
FALL 2014/2015 FASHION TRENDS! As much as we hate to say goodbye to the summer, as much we are excited for winter and all the style changes. Here we are again, bringing you our favourite trends of what we saw during fashion weeks.
Knits knits knits! Probably the most comfortable trend this season as seen at STELLA MCCARTNEY.
Military is back! Thanks to BALMAIN, one of our favourite trends is back this season and we love it! 32 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
Poncho The poncho was a key garment on the BURBERRY PRORSUM runway as it hung over models’ shoulders like a chic blanket.
Super High boots All women dig these super knee-high boots because, who wouldn’t? Thank you DONNA KARAN!
Goldmine Gold took over the runway as it cascaded across the fall MOSCHINO collection. Looks like designers are still not ready to get rid of this trend yet and we totally understand why. 33 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
FASHION REPORT
WHY I DIDN’T GO TO FASHION FORWARD
Dubai
Born and raised in Cairo, I grew up watching a TV program that my mother and aunts used to religiously follow, called “Laky ya Sayedaty” (For You, My Lady). Growing up and choosing a career in fashion (a career that I had to ditch five years of Pharmacy School for), those Laky ya Sayedaty shows proved to be a turning point my life. Yes, I attend fashion shows and parties for a living. My job requires me to travel all over the Middle East hunting for the best of the best of the fashion industry. 34 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
So attending Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD), the Middle East’s biggest fashion event was mandatory for me. It could be considered the Dubai Fashion Week; but the multi-national team behind it preferred it to have its own unique name rather than using the clichéd “Fashion Week” one. Fashion Forward Dubai hosts a number of fashion shows featuring designers such as Zayan Ghandour, Essa Walla, Rami Kadi, Amato, Tahir Sultan, and Starch foundation. It organizes fashion talk panels, workshops and a number of stunning after parties. Alongside FFWD’s eventful schedule is a very organized small bazaar called “The Garden” .It’s usually annexed to the event, presenting around 60 local designers from all over the region, including our own favorite young Egyptian designers such as Koukla and Nada Akram, to the crowd. For three consecutive outstandingly successful seasons, FFWD has succeeded in attracting Dubai’s crème de la crème, social elites and fashionistas as well as hungry fashion crowds flying over from all over the Middle East. It’s always exciting to watch and criticize their fancy designer outfits as they head to see what new the FFWD participating designers had to offer. For over a year and a half, every season, the luxurious ballrooms of Madinet Jumeirah welcomes from 15,000 to 18,000 guests, a number that reflects the fashion obsession recently taking over the Middle East. I have never missed a season, until this latest fourth season. Personally, I thought the second season was the best by far. I felt that it was a fast growing more popular event, attracting more and more of the Middle East’s well-celebrated designers. Season three was the most publicized; with huge billboards across the famous Sheikh Zayed road, coupled with an aggressive digital campaign. Unfortunately, this marketing approach attracted the wrong audience; people showed up to take photos and post them on Instagram, and check-in on Facebook. The panel talks and workshop sessions were nearly empty while the crowd hung outside. The shows were something else. Crowds were queuing outside for hours trying to get in. People were pushing and shoving each other in most queues, and racing over to the front seats, as the seating panel was on first come first serve basis. The shows were spectacular as usual, but in between, I felt bored to tears. I had walked enough down those catwalks with the luxurious huge chandeliers; I had seen the same faces for the last three seasons, same photographers stalking the same people, even the same designers’ showcase in the same halls. I had this mix up with reality and déjà vu. It was the same vibe, same set up; I felt it was turning commercial. So when I received my invitation for FFWD season 4, I didn’t get excited at all. I didn’t have that urge to dress up and put on some fancy heels and walk down the corridors of Madinet Jumeirah AGAIN. I believe FFWD needs to
diversify venues. You know what makes people kill over getting invitations for Paris Fashion Week? Not just the amazing designer shows, or the coolest crowds, it’s also the fabulous exotic and historic places that the designers compete to book. FFWD also needs to vary the designers’ list which has had regulars since the very beginning. People need to see different faces, because at some point we get the feeling that we have seen those designs before, FFWD needs fresh new blood.. This year, the organizers insisted on holding the event during the Feast break, if anything, it proves that they are only looking for profit, targeting the Middle Eastern tourists who will be on vacation in Dubai to shop at the bazaar. It was a double-edged sword. They didn’t consider that it was also the boutiques’ buyers’ official vacations, and that most of the people who fly specially for this event, would rather spend these holy days with their families and loved ones at home. They ignored that obvious fact, so people simply didn’t go. Some designers like Essa withdrew last minute, a lot of buyers preferred to wait for next spring season, and most key international media and local journalists became reluctant to cover the event. Having said all that, I still have hope that they will acknowledge their mistakes. FFWD has strong potential and huge capabilities, but needs to refresh its resources. This is not what I’ve come to expect from such a huge event in a non-traditional vibrant city like Dubai.
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Noha Youssef,
FASHION BLOGGER (CHANEL, CUPCAKES, CAMERAS & CRAYONS)
HIGH FASHION
h s D a e S OF CLEOPATRA CREATIVE DIRECTOR & PHOTOGRAPHER: BATOOL AL DAAWI MODEL: HEBA EL DESSOUKY FASHION DESIGNER: SARA HEGAZY FASHION STYLIST: FARAH EL SAYED MAKE-UP ARTIST: SOHA KHOURY HAIR STYLIST: RAFI FROM AL SAGHEER SALONS LOCATION: SOFITEL LEGEND OLD CATARACT
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POINT OF VIEW
US VS. THEM
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Okay, I can’t seem to be able to control myself any longer. Someone needs to shout it out: “MAMA KEFAYA ZANNNNNNN! MESH HAYET2ADEM DELWA2TY”. Though more girls than you think won’t admit it, I speak confidently when I say many of us will relate. It’s always very dreamy at first, the feeling of butterflies in your tummy, the love bubble and pretty much the entire electric and dizzying mood. Although you manage to stay in control and keep it low-key at the beginning, it remains all peachy, well…
I think nowadays the problems arising between most couples lie in disagreements between the wife and her mother-in-law or sister-in-law. The reasons for a breakupt a divorce are rarely due to issues between the couples themselves.
UNTIL YOUR MAMA INTERFERES!
Most probably, you will not be able to push your curfew an hour later, you will not be able to go to the movies at 10:00PM, you can by no means be later than 11:30PM -bel3afia- on important nights. It would be considered maysa7esh if you attend his family gatherings (even if his parents consider you one of them already), and you will never be comfortable with him around yours if there is no official commitment. That’s the Egyptian mentality. That is our parents’ mentality. You can never change it, but it’s never a waste to try.
If your mom is anything like mine, you’ll most probably understand, and if she isn’t, you will still understand. More often than not, your mother is your confidante and your friend, not necessarily the best of them at certain ages, but definitely the most consistent of them all. Undoubtedly, you will all relate to the miserable phone call that is all about “yalla baba beyesal 3aleiki, et2akharty leih?”Or “I don’t think it looks good for you that at this point there isn’t any official commitment yet.” No matter how much she loves your guy (and is friends with his mom) or how much she is appreciative that your choice this time didn’t suck, she will always share her concerns with you at the worst times ever. Why mom, why? Why would you ruin a perfect evening with friends and stir open that subject? Sometimes, she really does try not to pressure you but doesn’t even know what is right and what isn’t. However women are extremely indecisive in general. Mom, how about you tell me what your opinion is so I can decide how far I’ll go in the sharing process? According to the great Albert Einstein: “Intellectuals solve problems, geniuses prevent them”. Let’s be realistic here, if you are in a meaningful relationship with the person you believe will be your future husband, you would want to get to know him ,and his family better- whether close members or the related extension. You would definitely need to interact with them closely in order for you to form an entire outlook of what your future family will be like. Let’s get real Egyptian here, most of you at one point or another, have heard your mother or grandmother say “inti mesh betakhdih howa bas, inti betakhdi 3eila”. Thinking about that phrase thoroughly, I strongly believe our moms and grandmas are right. Even though, you t love your partner very much, his family could be the number one determinant of the success or failure of your relationship.
The thing with Egyptian parents is that they usually try to push a girl to finding a suitable mate at an early age yet refuse to wait until the official commitment. Well, guess what? You wanted us to find a mate and we delivered. Life has proven difficult over the past few years; you start dreaming about your life, how happy you will be with your partner but the number one misconception that you should be prepared for is that you will go through this transition smoothly, because you won’t.
Parents will always be parents, and while they may have rigid mentalities, we still expect them to roll with what life has to offer. . No matter how much you think they are being unbelievably difficult and not like your friend, Hania’s parents, they’re really doing their best to make you happy, they trust you but are just looking out for you. Sometimes their advice comes out like some sort of criticism, but most of the time it isn’t. I can tell you from my own experience that while a mother may sometimes come off as critical; it is only in her nature to be protective. However, the way I will always see it especially when it comes to marriage and relationships, it is best to consider all aspects and study everything that may affect any future relationship. After all, marriage is an agreement, and an agreement with feelings is always much more complex than any other. While parents might not get that el zaman gheir el zaman, maybe one day we might prove them right that it’s better to know a guy AND his family before getting too involved and ending up with adivorce.
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Shadden El Banna JUNIOR EDITOR
INTERVIEW
LULU’S: A CREATIVE CULINARY Alia El Askalany, a kitchen maven, not only likes to spend her time perfecting recipes, but looks to teach everyone the pleasure of cooking without being intimated in the kitchen, in a relaxed & cozy atmosphere. Alia completed a degree in Advanced Cuisine Techniques from Cordon Bleu London, a kitchen apprenticeship at Pip’s Dish Covent Garden, and Little Social by Jason Atherton, among others. She’s already a culinary mastermind and her themed classes are available to anybody. So we spoke to the founder of Lulu’s Kitchen , and asked her a few questions! TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, AND LULU’S KITCHEN. I wouldn’t claim that I’m a jack of all trades but in a way I am. I always like to keep myself busy, active and productive with what I am passionate about. I moved from Development to PR to Real Estate Marketing and finally the Food and Beverage sector – particularly restaurants; fueling a deeper love for the kitchen & cooking. As for Lulu’s Kitchen, being raised in a home where my mother and aunt perfected food, picked out what to eat at the office, enjoyed hosting people over & feeding them, I realized that I belonged in food – and it’s about time I pursue the culinary world. CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THE COURSES YOU TEACH? I don’t technically teach courses but rather themed classes which indirectly teach you different dishes from different cuisines, infusing kitchen skills, presentation skills and other useful culinary tips. You can be a beginner, a hobby chef, an advanced cook, a mom wanting to spend quality time with her kid or husband – whatever it is, everyone will find something they fancy. The classes are taught in my own home in Zamalek which I think is the main attraction behind the concept since it’s very chilled and non formal. You get to taste & take the food home, get a recipe card to try it at home and zone out from the hustle and bustle of your day into something fun and skillful. WHAT COURSES DO YOU OFFER? When it comes to courses I try to introduce something fun for people who are looking to focus on one theme or skill like Kitchen 101, Ramadan Cooking, Global Cuisine, Baking or Perfecting a three course meal; just to name a few. The sky’s the limit really, so every month there is something new to look forward to.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR BEGINNER CHEFS? I would give them the same advice I had when I was in London: “Always clean up after yourself step by step while in the kitchen, cooking around a mess will confuse you.” Plan your dish by prepping all the ingredients first, it will save up on time and effort and you will focus more on getting the dish right.Sharpen your knives; blunt knives lead to accidents and cuts. Always protect your fingers by holding the ingredients properly. If something goes wrong don’t panic, there’s always a way to fix it and if there isn’t you just dust it off and try again. Try to minimize on waste – if your tomatoes are about to go bad, make sauce. If your cucumbers are about to go bad, make pickles. If your fruit is about to go bad, make jam. If your bread is about to go stale, make breadcrumb.
Quick Round
FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN EGYPT? I’d have to say we still have a lot to catch up on in terms of quality, despite the huge foodie revolution happening. If I had to name some, they would be Aboul Sid, Cairo Kitchen, Crave, Alchemy & 5 bells. FAVORITE MAIN-COURSE TO COOK? A medium rare steak with avocado, potatoes in any form, pasta & risotto. FAVORITE DESSERT TO COOK? I absolutely love anything creamy, so I must say puddings and Crème Brulee. FAVORITE FOOD? Pizza MUST HAVE KITCHEN UTENSIL? Chef knife, apron, towel & kitchen tongs.
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CUISINE
PAIRING FOOD FLAVORS: A CREATIVE & TASTY CULINARY EXPERIENCE The rise of different food & beverage concepts coupled with aggressive marketing & branding strategies around Cairo, has definitely contributed to the expansion of Egyptians’ palettes, even if still on a basic level. The science of food pairing and flavor matching wasn’t born yesterday but it has definitely skyrocketed. Trends have evolved to include different flavor pairings every year such as beetroot, black garlic and rum as bases, to name a few.
I
n order to break flavors down, one must go back to the basics. There are five primary flavors: sweet, sour, bitter, salty & savory (aka Umami). You can match any of those and you are most likely to come up with a new burst of flavors that either makes or breaks your dish. There are also secondary flavors like piquancy, fattiness, and pungency; those pair particularly well with any of the primary flavors. Sweet and sour go hand in hand, while bitter and savory foods are often accompanied by salty and pungent foods such as garlic and onion.
anyways. Cheese & grapes, chili & chocolate, fig & Roca, honey & pepper, beef & dates, chicken & pomegranate, burger, jam & brie, tuna & sweet corn, hotdog & relish, these are just a few examples of how you can mix and match ingredients to give you an amazing and unique taste.
How do you actually experience that? Well it’s quite simple and it starts by practicing at home. Don’t be intimidated by the outcome even if it’s inedible, you need to give it a try
Being a huge fan of flavor pairing myself, I get so excited when I mix & match ingredients – whether by following a recipe or just trial and error.
CHERRY JAM BBQ: Combine one tbsp. with a dash of black pepper, and use it to top off burgers or as grilled chicken dipping.
Of course some foods don’t pair well together, such as citrus fruits and milk. Surely, we all love cheeseburgers and beef satays, but those are usually combined with other ingredients to avoid heartburn and indigestion if consumed directly.
FIG ROCA & TOMATO SALAD: The tanginess of the Roca, combined with the juiciness of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the figs is heavenly.
FIG & MELTED BRIE WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE: Stuffing figs with brie, placing them in the oven for 5 minutes, then drizzling them with balsamic vinegar is a successful marriage of flavors.
BEETROOT WITH FRESH CREAM & CARAMELIZED HAZELNUTS: That makes an amazing salad and the crunchy hazelnuts leave you wanting more.
TOMATO JAM WITH CHEDDAR ON TOAST: This is a super smart way to cut down on tomato waste, utilizing the ones about to go bad, plus it’s a great accompaniment to any cheese platter.
Alia Askalany CHEF
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CUISINE
WARM YOUR WINTER WITH MOUTHWATERING BYFAYROUZ RECIPES Because some of us would rather curl into a blanket, sit tight at home and watch a movie rather than go out in the cold winter weather, we brought you 3 amazing recipes from the one and only Fayrouz Nasser Eid, better known as ByFayrouz on social media outlets. She is the author of ByFayrouz.com, is a brand ambassador for Lipton Clear Green, and breaks all norms by shopping from a local Egyptian Farm. With no further delays, we present to you Fayrouz’s mouthwatering, yet light snacks for cold winter nights!
CRISPY OVEN ROASTED CHICKPEAS RECIPE: INGREDIENTS: • Raw chickpeas (hummus) thoroughly cooked • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon chili powder • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt RECIPE: * Heat the oven to 200C Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl then toss the chickpeas and blend together until evenly coated. * Spread the chickpeas in one layer on a tray and bake until crispy. HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE: INGREDIENTS: • Almond milk (recipe for fresh homemade almond milk is on byfayrouz.com) • Raw Cocoapowder • Sweetener of choice: Stevia, coconut sugar, or organic honey RECIPE: * Heat the almond milk, add a 1 tsp. or less of cocoa powder and sweeten to taste. RELAX and ENJOY.
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BAKED SWEET POTATO CHIPS: INGREDIENTS: • 2 large sweet potatoes • 1-2 tbsp coconut oil • Cinnamon (optional) RECIPE: * Preheat oven to 200 degrees. * Rinse and dry the sweet potatoes * Slice them as thin as you want them to be using a knife or a vegetable peeler. * Spread the oil on the chips using a pastry brush * Place them on an oven chips’ tray (you don’t have to flip them if you use the oven chips’ tray) or on a baking sheet in any oven tray and flip at least once or twice to ensure crispiness on both sides. * Remove once they are crispy and golden brown on both sides. * Sprinkle with cinnamon (optional)
They say that healthy eating begins in the supermarket, I’d like to humbly change this saying and say that healthy eating starts from your local farm. In egypt, we are lucky to buy fruits and vegetables at every street corner at anytime of the day. There is really no excuse to not include them in our diet. But it gets even better when you can actually visit your local farm. My ultimate favorite farm is Egyptian Hydrofarms, even though they distribute their green goodness to local supermarkets, the experience of actually going there and picking up a basket is as raw and refreshing to your soul as it will get. Make it a habit, go once a week, or even once a month, take your kids and introduce them to wholesome healthy food. You will be doing them and your entire family a huge favor. > Instead of taking them to the supermarket to pick out candy and highly processed foods take them to your local farm. What’s so special about egyptian Hydrofarms is that they grow pesticide free greens. They use a hydroponic growing technology that allows the leafy greens to grow in the perfect amount of nutrients giving us the highest quality of food. When you get in the habit of visiting your local farm your fridge will always be full with healthy vegetables and fruits which means that you will eat what is in your fridge at least 70% of the time. This is worth the drive.
Fayrouz Nasser Eid
NUTRITIONIST & LIPTON’S CLEAR GREEN BRAND AMBASSADOR
INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE CHANNEL: BYFAYROUZ WWW.BYFAYROUZ.COM PHOTOGRAPHY: YOUSSEF EL-GARHY & MOHAMMED EL-AASA FOOD STYLING: SUZY EMAM
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FOOD GUIDE
FAMOUS DESSERT PLACES IN CAIRO For those of you who love desserts, we have chosen the top 10 venues for your perennial sweet tooth. After all, our food guide would not be complete without the little cherry on top, known as dessert! Enjoy in a little decadent pleasure and do not hesitate to give these desserts a try!
Lucille’s
Pancakes Short stack EGP 25 Full Stack EGP 30
Crave
Chocolate Fondant EGP 36.95
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Golio’s
Galaxy and Kinder Crepe EGP 40
Chili’s
Chocolate Chip Paradise Pie EGP 36.99
Baked By Ahd
(Goya Sushi Japanese House) Chocolate Chip Cookie Pan EGP 50
Cake
Waffle Maker
Topping Waffle - Regular (Basic + 1Topping) EGP 20 Topping Waffle – Special (Basic + 4 Toppings) EGP 30
Nola Cupcakes
Lemon Bars EGP 25
Cookies n’ Cream Cupcake EGP 13
Dukes
Dirt Cake EGP 25
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TBS
White Chocolate Donut EGP 10.5
FOOD GUIDE
BRINGING CUISINES FROM ALL AROUND THE WORLD Most of us get really confused when it comes to where to dine. Some of us worry about money, others about the cuisine. For those of you who are on a diet, please look away! Now, we present to you Cairo’s Food Guide categorized into cuisines and value of money. Plus, we are making your lives much more easy with the venues’ phone numbers and addresses. Enjoy!
French
EXPENSIVE PAUL: EGP 200 El Tagamoa El Khamis: Road 90 – Downtown Mall Sheikh Zayed City: Mall Of Arabia Telephone: 0223146192
AVERAGE BRIOCHE DOREE: EGP 150 Alexandria Deserr Road: Dandy Mega Mall Zamalek: Hilton Hotel Telephone: 0235394129
CHEAPEST LA GOURMANDISE: EGP 100 Garden City: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence Telephone: 0235692557/0237765955
Indian
EXPENSIVE THE MOGHUL ROOM: EGP 300 Haram: Mena House Hotel Telephone: 0233766644
AVERAGE Indira: EGP 200 Heliopolis: Holiday Inn Hotel in City Stars Telephone: 0224803006/02248030 00/0224803001 54 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
CHEAPEST NAWAB: EGP 100 Zamalek: 21B Bahgat Ali Road Telephone: 0227360433/01000016706
Chinese
EXPENSIVE 8: EGP 400 Garden City: Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza Telephone: 0227916888
AVERAGE SAIGON: EGP 200 Downtown: Fairmont Nile City Hotel Telephone: 0224619494
CHEAPEST PEKING: EGP 100 Heliopolis: 115 Osman Ibn Affan St. (OFF Triumph Square) Zamalek: 23B Ismail Mohamed St. Telephone: 16078
Asian
EXPENSIVE LAN TANIA: EGP 250 Heliopolis: Fairmont Heliopolis Hotel Telephone: 16989/0222677730/0222677740
AVERAGE L’ASIATIQUE: EGP 200 Zamalek: Le Pacha 1901, Saray El Gezirah Telephone: 19982/0227356730
CHEAPEST ZO: EGP 100 Zamalek: 26 July Street Telephone: 16669
Lebanese
EXPENSIVE AURA: EGP 300 Giza: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence Telephone: 0235671600
AVERAGE LEILA: EGP 200 6th of October: Mall of Arabia, Juhaina Sq. Telephone: 01090904967
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CHEAPEST TAMARA: EGP 150 Nasr City: City Stars Center, Phase 2. Sheikh Zayed City: Tivoli Dome Telephone: 16885
Egyptian
EXPENSIVE EGYPTIAN NIGHTS: EGP 250 Zamalek: Cairo Marriott Hotel and Omar Khayyam Casino. 16 Saray El Gezirah St. Telephone: 0227283000
AVERAGE ANDREA MARIOUTIYYA: EGP 170 Haram: 59 El Marioutiyya St., Kerdasa Road. Telephone: 0233831133/0233854441
CHEAPEST ABOU EL SID: EGP 120 Cairo Desert Road: Dandy Mega Mall Zamalek: 157, 26th of July St. Telephone: 0223805050/0227359640
Italian
EXPENSIVE LEONARDO: EGP 300 Heliopolis: Fairmont Heliopolis Hotel Telephone: 16989/0222677730/0222677740
AVERAGE GABRIEL: EGP 150 Mohandiseen: 30 Abdel Monem Riyad St, off El Batal Ahmed Abdel Aziz St. Telephone: 01037900004
CHEAPEST PORTA D’ORO: EGP 100 Dokki: 30 Soliman Abaza St. Telephone: 19281
American
EXPENSIVE BLACKSTONE: EGP 170 Maadi: 4 Ali El Kordy St. Zamalek: 22 Taha Hussein Street Telephone: 0225281661/022735 2522/0227355875/0227352575
AVERAGE LUCILLE’S: EGP 150 Maadi: 54 Road 9, Sakanat Maadi Telephone: 0223592778
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CHEAPEST GRIZZLY: EGP 100 Zamalek: Club 33, 33 Abou El Feda St. Telephone: 16629
REVIEW
AN EXCLUSIVE GETAWAY FROM CAIRO’S HUSTLE AND BUSTLE AT MARRIOTT ZAMALEK’S BBQ BRUNCH
A
fter a long argument over how to spend our last afternoon this weekend, my friend suggested trying the new BBQ brunch at Marriott Zamalek. It only took us 15 minutes to reach Zamalek since it’s very central. As expected, the BBQ Brunch was located at Marriott’s exquisite garden. A welcoming waiter escorted us to our table. We headed directly to the buffet to find a very wide selection of Sushi, cheese assortment, fresh bakery and pretzels, oriental appetizers like sambousa and fried kebba in addition to the main BBQ varieties. The potato gratin was delicious, I just couldn’t have enough. The salad buffet was equally inviting, either create your own salad or choose from a number of mouthwatering ones. The combination of the superb food, the live jazz music played by a band called Wave, the shining sun, the gorgeous scenery, and the friendly staff was simply delightful. It was time to head back to the buffet once more but for dessert this time. The dessert options were endless; the buffet had something to cater to every taste; macaroons, oriental desserts, fruits, a chocolate fountain with a big selection of dips, and an ice cream corner with freshly baked biscuit cones, nuts, sauces, and toppings. We satisfied our appetites and taste buds to the maximum, all at a very affordable 250EGP all inclusive, half price for children aged 6-12. We felt very fortunate to experience this classy brunch . Next weekend, I’m treating my family to BBQ Brunch which only takes place on Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 5 pm. The new brunch will probably become a weekend ritual for me from now on. 57 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
REVIEW
JAZZ BAR AT KEMPINSKI Last month, I was in the mood for quality Sushi and wanted to try out a new venue. After extensive research, the Jazz Bar at Kempinski Nile Cairo came highly recommended. So I invited a close friend to go and give it a try. There are lots of Sushi restaurants in town, but to find one with an incredible view is uncommon. Overlooking the beautiful Nile River, the Jazz Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long stressful day at work. We arrived there at 9 pm, and were shown to our table right away. Lucky us, our table was located right next to a huge window with the most gorgeous view of the Nile River and the city lights. Our waiter, Feras, was very hospitable and welcoming. After directing us to our table, he suggested that we start with the finest Italian wine, Ruffino Chianti Russo, and was that definitely a good choice. The wine came with an assortment of nuts that had a very tasty Wasabi flavour to it. Our chef Wael, came over to our table to help us pick the best items from the menu. He recommended we start with a mixed Sashimi plate. My favourite was the Tuna Tatami with their speciality Bunzo sauce. I then topped that with a Sushi plate that included a Salmon Philadelphia Roll, a crispy Salmon Roll, Salmon Nigiri, Shrimp Tempura, and the chef’s special Nagazagi Tuna Roll. I have to say, everything was finger-licking good! We were absolutely satisfied with the food and the attentive friendly service. So am I going to recommend it? Definitely! If you plan to go on a week night, you will be entertained by a fabulous live band, or just good old jazz music. If you’re looking forward to a louder night, go on weekends and enjoy their DJ playing contemporary playlists, and dance the night away! Either way, you are guaranteed an awesome evening!
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TECHNOLOGY
INTRODUCING PHILIPS LUMEA IPL HAIR REMOVAL SYSTEM
Women all over the world have been forever struggling with the agony of hair removal, putting up with the painful and tedious process of getting rid of unfriendly ,unwanted body hair. Two years ago, a permanent laser hair removal system has been devised, yet its sessions proved to be too costly and too slow to show effective results. We couldn’t be more excited to announce that Philips have finally originated an innovative pain-free device for women to get rid of their undesired body hair using their newest product, namely, Philips Lumea IPL hair removal system. If you’re looking for a safe, convenient and painless solution to unwanted hair with lasting results, the new Philips Lumea IPL hair removal system is the ultimate choice. Using a powerful technology known as Intense Pulse Light (IPL), gentle light pulses, applied regularly, keep skin silkysmooth every day and help women stay hair-free easily and effectively in the comfort of your own home. Upon experimenting with Lumea, I came to realize that the process is even more simple than expected. Simply glide the device over the skin area you want to treat, smoothly and quickly with a 90 degree angle. Lumea is effective for legs, face, body and other sensitive parts including the bikini area. Philips Lumea IPL hair removal system comes with a skin tone & hair color guide to ensure you are choosing the right Light Fluency Level for your skin
tone and, with a minimum of 140,000 flashes. No gel or replacement lamps are required. Philips Lumea Precision Plus is every woman’s newest revelation. LONG LASTING SMOOTHNESS Philips Lumea applies gentle pulses of light to the hair root shedding hair naturally and inhibiting regrowth. Repetition once every two weeks will keep your skin smooth at all times. Philips clinical studies have shown significant hair reduction in as little as two bi-weekly treatments, with optimal hair-free results achieved after four to five bi-weekly treatments. To maintain these results, simply repeat treatment regularly. Time between treatments may vary based on your individual hair regrowth. SAFE AND EFFECTIVE ON FACE AND BODY Use confidently to remove hair on face (upper lip/chin/ sideburns) and body including legs, armpits, bikini area, belly and arms. Philips Lumea works effectively on naturally dark blonde, brown and black hairs. Philips Lumea has five adjustable light energy settings to ensure gentle yet effective treatment. Used correctly, Philips Lumea IPL treatment is safe and gentle to apply on sensitive skin and sensitive body areas. The treatment time and battery recharge frequency depends on the selected energy setting and the application area. Philips Lumea is a complete solution that comes ready to work right out of the box at no extra hidden costs. Backed by 50 years of hair removal research developed by leading dermatologists with more than 20 years of IPL research, you can trust Lumea Precision Plus IPL to provide you with the ultimate results in hair removal. No more appointments or lengthy costly sessions.. You will forever be thankful for the existence of Lumea.
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THE NEW NISSAN JUKE… GRABBING ATTENTION WHEREVER YOU GO With more than 500,000 Nissan Juke sold worldwide since its launch back in 2010, this unique crossover continues to defy normal design conventions. Nissan Motor Egypt decided to launch the new version of its innovative cross over; the Juke, with minor changes to make it the most attractive Juke yet; The next chapter in Juke’s story starts now. Since its debut in Egypt back in 2012, the Nissan Juke has always been considered one of the most unique cars in the Egyptian market, the difference in its exterior & interior designs makes it unique in its segment. It is certainly made to excite you and make you feel that it is specially designed for you. A TOUGH, AGILE EXTERIOR DESIGN Nissan’s design team decided to create a unique car combining those specifications of a sports car and a cross over all at once, so here comes the Juke as a breath of fresh air in car designing standards. The notable changes include redesigned headlamps, the new Headlight and taillight casings gain Nissan’s boomerang shape which is in line with Nissan’s direction in all its new designs, also to include LED headlights, strong xenon lights and fog lights. JUKE’s dramatic exterior styling projects an image of toughness
and agility. Its raked front pillars allow for a large windshield area for improved all-around visibility, while its taut upper canopy with sloped rear roofline combines with its muscular lower body sides to emphasize its strength and sportiness. Embedded rear door handles, “hidden” in the rear pillars, emulate the design of a 2-door sports coupe.
In Drive Mode, both engine and CVT transmission performance can be adjusted to fit any driving of three moods. Normal Mode gives balanced strength in acceleration and control. Sports Mode allows drivers to enjoy sporty and responsive control, while the Eco Mode provides improved fuel efficiency and efficient use of the air conditioning.
AN AGGRESSIVE, HIGHLY FUNCTIONAL INTERIOR JUKE’s interior design is equally inspired, combining the mechanical aspects of a precision instrument with the free flowing feel of a living organism. Innovation and high functionality are evident throughout – from the motorcycle design-like center console and smooth door finishes to the motorcycle cylinder inspired meters, floating instrument panel visor and sporty center cluster. Even the door trim design, with its distinctive diving fin look, adds to the JUKE’s sporty personality, enhancing the feeling of connectedness that the driver and passengers have with the vehicle.
JUKE is equipped with an improved HR16DE K engine offering 1600 CC and 118 HP. Already known for its great performance and reliability, this latest version offers better fuel efficiency and torque at low and medium speeds.
JUKE’s compact sports crossover design also adds a level of packaging efficiency not found on other compact vehicles. Its higher ride visibility and large windshield allow for a much broader view of the road and surrounding environment Another unique feature on JUKE is the Intelligent Control Display. This newly developed intelligent control display features a versatile, multi-colored information system that provides real time driving information and a host of other options, which allow the driver to alter both dynamic drive mode settings and climate control.
If you are one of those people who love to stand out and love to be in control of your driving style, then the Nissan Juke is the perfect car for you. ABOUT NISSAN MOTOR EGYPT Nissan Motor Egypt S.A.E is one of the Biggest Japanese automotive manufacturers in Egypt located in the 6th of October city, Giza, Egypt & the third major market player in the Egyptian Market; A subsidiary of Nissan Motor LTD with more than 1200 employees and technicians on ground. Nissan Motor Egypt strives to fulfill Nissan’s global promise of delivering Innovation & excitement to its customers through its products. As of April, 1st, 2013, Nissan Motor Egypt became the Regional Business Unit for North Africa and Sudan markets. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Nissan Motor Egypt PR & Communications Tel:+202-38340920 http://www.nissan.com.eg
6 Dawayer by Yasser Fathy Signing Session Review
6 Circles for Personal and Professional Success with Virgin Megastore Renowned Egyptian author and Transformation Guru Yasser Fathy, recently held a book signing session for his newly released book “6 Circles” at Virgin Megastore in City Stars Mall. During the session, Yasser shared some insights from his new book and elaborated on how Egyptians can change their mindset through a practical model for achieving real life success. The “6 Circles” model within the book is the first of its kind and provides a step-by-step guide on how to achieve success with tangible results. Through Fathy’s “6 Circles”, readers are able to build self-confidence and become self-aware, allowing them to change negative thoughts and lack of self-confidence into positive change where nothing is impossible to achieve. 6 Circles is now available to buy from Virgin Megastores. Mall of Arabia Tel: 01 128687777 • City Stars Tel: +02 2480 2244 • virginmegastore.ae | facebook.com/virginmena | twitter.com/virginmena
OUT & ABOUT
SAMER SERHAL AND RIHAM FOUAD’S WEDDING Egyptian and Lebanese media rocked the night at Conrad Cairo Hotel, celebrating Samer Serhal and Riham Fouad’s wedding in an Egyptian/Lebanese atmosphere full of love and fun. It was a night to remember for everyone , enjoying the music till early morning.
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OUT & ABOUT
MARRIOTT HOTELS IN EGYPT SAY #THANKYOU Global Customer Appreciation Week is the yearly initiative by Marriott Internationalto reinforce relationships with existing customers and establish connections with new ones. Sales and marketing representatives of the six Marriott properties in Egypt have come together with the Global Sales Office in Cairo saying #ThankYou to all customers around the country. #MarriottSaysThx and #ThankYouIsTrending have become this year’s theme.
FAIRMONT GETAWAY Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers welcomed Cairo’s media moguls to a remarkable Fairmont getaway, starting their day with a hotel tour showing off the newly refurbished rooms, checking in for a day use at the massive pool before taking the whole crew for dinner at the Egyptian Night restaurant. With 840 spacious rooms and suites, venues serving an array of delicious global cuisines, outstanding conferences, events and recreational facilities, beautifully designed interiors and landscapes, and an engaging service only a few can rival. 64 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
SAFIR INTERNATIONAL HOTEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY SIGNED THE RENEW OF SAFIR HOTEL CAIRO MANAGEMENT CONTRACT In an elegant atmosphere, Safir Hotel Cairo management contract has been signed between the International Tourism & Investment Consortium.
MAJID AL FUTTAIM INVESTS EGP 4.9 BILLION TO OPEN MALL OF EGYPT Majid Al Futtaim hosted top government officials at the construction site of its latest mega project in Egypt; Mall of Egypt. The site visit was held under the patronage of Eng. Ibrahim Mahlab, Egyptian Prime Minister, and was attended by Mr. Ashraf Salman, Minister of Investment; and Dr. Mostafa Madbouli, Minister of Housing. During the site visit, Majid Al Futtaim top management offered their perceptions of Egypt’s promising retail industry as well as insights into the company’s ongoing commitment to the country and economic development.
SOLANA SPARKLING JAZZ BRUNCH Join us at Solana restaurant at Conrad Cairo for the ultimate sparkling Jazz brunch every Friday presenting an international buffet served in an inviting atmosphere featuring a live music band and kid’s entertainment for just LE 210 all inclusive per person and 50% discount for kids.
THE ITALIAN FASHION ACADEMY ANNUAL FASHION SHOW The italian Fashion Academy is organizing for the annual fashion show which will be held on the 24th of November 2014 on JW Marriott for the 2nd time . Invitees Italian Ambassador, High social level of Egyptian and Italian Society, some Egyptian celebrities, Some of the most famous business men in the fashion field Media from Italian Fashion Academy side Identity magazine Rotana Masria Mbc 1 CBC Dream TV. The fashion show is sponsored by Mr Mohamed El Sagheer for the hair style and the makeup by The Italian fashion academy students under the supervision of their tutor the Lebanese makeup artist Soha Khoury. The show will be divided into 3 parts a fashion show for the Italian fashion academy students to present their last creation reflecting F/W 2014. the second part is a fashion show for Italian fashion academy student the fashion designer Samar Saied The last part will be with the Italian fashion designer Dr.Stefania Gulina.
OUT & ABOUT
MCDONALD’S CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS AND LEADERSHIP IN THE EGYPTIAN MARKET McDonald’s Egypt celebrated 20 years of achievement in the Egyptian market and confirmed that it will increase its investments and create more than 10 thousand job opportunities.
DUSIT THANI LAKEVIEW CAIRO WELCOMES DOLPH LUNDGREN Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo is honored to have recently welcomed Kick- boxing and Martial Arts legend Dolph Lundgren after a few days location scouting for his new movie at the Red Sea.
FIAT’S STRONG COMEBACK AT DUSIT THANI LAKEVIEW CAIRO Fiat Chrysler Group brings back Fiat and Alfa Romeo’s latest models and announces the launch of new showrooms and one of its largest service centers in the Middle East at a press conference held At Lakeview Ballroom, Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo.
FRIDAY BRUNCH AT FAIRMONT NILE CITY Spend your Friday afternoons at Fairmont Nile City’s Jazz brunch Buffet at Napa Grill. Featuring a variety of cuisines and live stations; this brunch is definitely not one to miss. Enjoy live entertainment and a selection of a 100 items offered at the buffet for only L.E. 265* starting from Friday October 24th from 01:00 p.m. to 05:00 p.m.
LAUNCH OF NEW BOOK “6 CIRCLES” BOOK SET TO TRANSFORM EGYPTIANS For the first time in the Middle East, the “6 Circles” offers readers a book that provides a tangible model for transformational change, through the utilization of a practical step-by-step implementation plan, allowing readers to achieve their dreams.
CAIRO LAUNCHES THE 1ST DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM Cairo launched the Digital Media Forum (DMF) that is being held outside Dubai for the 1st time, gathered around 500 information technology and digital media experts from Egypt and the Arab region.
BANK AUDI EGYPT LAUNCHES “WORLD MASTERCARD” In an effort to continue providing its customers with the finest and most innovative banking services, Bank Audi has launched, for the first time in the Egyptian market, “World MasterCard”. 66 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
AL-FUTTAIM CELEBRATES CAIRO FESTIVAL CITY MALL’S FIRST ANNIVERSARY In celebration of Cairo Festival City Mall’s first anniversary, the group will hold celebrations throughout the month of November.
SHERATON MIRAMAR HAS BEEN CERTIFIED PLATINUM EARTHCHECK Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna has been assessed as meeting Platinum Certification requirements of the EarthCheck company standard. RADISSON BLU HOTEL CAIRO HELIOPOLIS APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER Carlson Rezidor, one of the largest hotel groups worldwide, has appointed Harald Buerkle as the new general manager for Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis.
CRAVE GRACES THE VILLAGE AT CAIRO FESTIVAL CITY, WITH BRANCH NUMBER 5 Having been in the market for nearly 10 years to date, Crave Egypt (managed by Tico Group) has been the favorite comfort food destination for many diners & foodies alike. With the launch of their 5th restaurant lounge at The Village, Cairo Festival City – the latest introduction to the company’s Cairo portfolio – Crave continues to bring its unique taste and signature items that have been favored by many, to town.
HILTON WORLDWIDE LAUNCH ‘SOAP FOR HOPE’ IN EGYPT WITH ANA AL MASRY TO SUPPORT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY Hilton Worldwide hotels across Egypt celebrate third annual Global Week of Service by supporting Egyptian communities through volunteerism.
JOTUN EGYPT CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF ITS HEADQUARTER IN NEW CAIRO Jotun Egypt, the leading painting company in Egypt and affiliate of Jotun Global, the worldwide leading paint group, announced today the opening of its new Headquarter in New Cairo.
CHILDREN’S EYE HEALTH AND SAFETY AWARENESS Dr. Ayman Al Ghonaimy, the pediatric oculist consultant in MAGRABI Hospital has given a lecture on the 22nd of September on children’s eye health and safety in Egypt to some of the top oculists in Egypt and the Arab World. Under the title of “Precise Techniques in Prescribing Glasses for Children”. FOUR SEASONS NILE PLAZA INTRODUCES THE UK’S MOST ADVANCED NON-SURGICAL FACIAL SOLUTIONS AT THE SPA Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza invites guests to experience CACI a phenomenal non-surgical face and body treatments solution at Cairo’s most exhilarating Spa.
FOOD AND FRUIT FESTIVAL 2014 @ THE WALK OF BEVERLY HILLS The day started at 7:00AM with wheelers on their bicycles taking off from Beverly hills and going on their fun ride reaching Dina Farms and back to be received with fresh drinks and fruits at the food and fruit festival. This was followed by a public zumba class, a very exciting cooking session by Chef Noha Ma3touk and a great performance by Mado and Taxi Band.
SAMSUNG INTRODUCES THE LATEST IN ITS ICONIC NOTE SERIES - THE GALAXY NOTE 4 Samsung Electronics recently today announced the expansion of its flagship Galaxy Note series with the new Galaxy Note 4.
RENAISSANCE CAIRO MIRAGE CITY HOTEL REAPS THE SILVER PRIZE IN THE MENA AWARDS 2014 In an enchanting ceremony of the MENA Awards 2014 Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel wins the silver award for best rising hotel in the Middle East and Africa for the year 2013. The MENA Award is an annual ceremony that recognizes real talent through outstanding services in the field of tourism and hospitality industry.
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL REAFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT AND INTEREST IN EGYPT Marriott International’s President and CEO, Arne Sorenson has recently reaffirmed the company’s interest in Egypt as a major travel and tourism destination. The commitment was made during the US Chamber of Commerce round table discussion that took place in New York to mark the visit of Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El Sisi. 67 IDENTITY NOVEMBER 2014
VIBRANT STYLE AND UNMATCHED ENERGY RETURN. INTRODUCING THE NEW ADIDAS ENERGY BOOST adidas has introduced the newest model of the iconic Energy Boost with an improved fit. look and feel to help runners embrace the road with confidence and style at an event at Gold’s Gym in Cairo on September 15, 2014.
FASHION HOROSCOPE
PISCES You will have some free time and free resources, which can be quite possibly applied in a project. Boost your energy wearing the famous GAP hoodie.
ARIES A cloud of positive energy will surround you this month. Be prepared in this oversized comfy DONNA KAREN sweater.
GEMINI Success is guaranteed in business not only by effectiveness but also by time. Embrace your success with sexy TOPSHOP biker leather Jacket.
CANCER This month will be a spectacular period for you. Dare to try new things. Face this lucky period in rocking an YSL silky coat.
VIRGO Now comes the time were you need to take a move towards what you really want. Be bold in this ALEXANDER MCQUEEN peplum jacket.
LIBRA The relationship problem that made you lose sleep will finally be resolved this month. Welcome this serenity wearing CAVALLI.
SCORPIO Your current projects will conclude even faster than you hoped, while new ones will promise you far greater profits than you hoped for. Invest in this BURBERRY trench coat.
CAPRICORN You will be able to accomplish everything at once and everywhere. Have everything under control wearing this H&M Fur blazer.
AQUARIUS You should not plan any large-scale events, despite the fact that you will have both the wills and the means to do so. This edgy BALMAIN leather jacketis a must..
SAGITTARIUS Be attentive and do not rush getting into where your attendance may not be as necessary. But, if you should, awe them with this MICHEAL KORS jacket.
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TAURUS Building new foundations either concerning relationships or business isn’t recommended this month. Shield yourself with this denim MANGO jacket.
LEO Work direction will bring you joy with a mass of opportunities and success. Be careful who to share this success with. Stay warm in this LANVIN coat.
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