April April2015 2015
Fashion & Lifestyle
HOT SUMMER FASHION Best Spring Styles from Runways
Strip Away Stress
Let’s Accessorize
Our Home!
Color your way
Cairo Fashion Festival Season 4 Stay Tuned!
SPRING BEAUTY HEAT UPS Stylish Hair Hot Makeup Sexy Nails
Prince Charming is Waiting at the AltAr 10 Reasons Why Egyptian Women Should Delay Marriage
ULTIMATE EASTER BRUNCH
Now open Tivoli DOME Heliopolis second floor
Contents Feathered dress by Norine Farah. Hair asccessories at Cairo Boutique.
APRIL 2015 Fashion
12 LB Loves: Jennifer Lawrence In Be Dior Campaign 14 Steal Amal Alamuddin’s Style 16 Shopping Pages: Spring Hottest Fashion Trends 20 The Top Accessory Trends of 2015 24 Spring’s Freshest and Fashionable Looks From Runways 28 PHOTOSHOOT: Fashion Clashing Pop Art
BEAUTY
40 Best Tips for Healthy Nails 42 Hottest Spring Makeup Colors for 2015 44 Easy DIY Scrubs To Get Your Skin Spring Ready 45 6 New Haircuts To Try For Spring
Faces of EGYPT
46 Ahmed Hamdi: Founder of Nile Eyewear
2 | April 2015
Home
Cooking
ESCAPE
LOVE & RELATIONSHips
49 Bring Them In 50 Best Tricks to Accessorize Your Place
54 4 Shopping Places in Cairo 56 Top Easter Getaways
Health 62 Healthy Ways To Strip Away Stress
FITNESS
68 DEFEND YOURSELF: 6 Places in Cairo to Learn Martial Arts 70 Toning The Love Muscles
Nutrition
72 10 Signs of Nutritional Deficiencies in Children
76 Recipes Around The World: Lebanese Cuisine
78
10 Reasons Why Today’s Modern Egyptian Women Are Delaying the Prospects of Marriage
Mother&Child
80 To All the New Moms and Moms-to-Be Out There… Calm Down, and Take A Deep Breath
Features
82 6 Bestselling Novels That Will Help You Escape Reality 85 Side Of The Moon
In every issue: On Spot
94 The Charms Mother’s Day Bazar at the JW Marriot Cairo 95 The Irish Embassy in Cairo Celebrates Saint Patrick’s Day 96 Pottery Café is Now Open at Tivoli Dome Heliopolis 97 Reserved Hosts Style Days Event at Cairo Festival City/The French Michelin Star Chef Julien Verrat at Conrad Cairo 98 Dabur Egypt Launches Fem USA Hair Removing Cream/An Extraordinary Experience with L’Oreal Paris Elvive and Makeup 99 Al-Mansour Automotive Shines with Its Latest Surprise at Automech-Formula 2015/adidas Opens the First Kids Store in the Middle East and Re-launches the Originals Store 100 Ruen Thai Turns 4/Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis Hosted the Area GMs Meeting
Editor’s Note P.10 Shopping Cart P.15 Spotted P.36 Pieces We Love P.48 Ladybird’s Q&A P.66 Why Eat This? P.74 The Best, The Top, & The Must Have P.88 Reviews P.89 Horoscopes P.91 Happenings P.92
Ladybird
Scan it & get connected to our facebook fanpage to get all our tips, updates and news! FOLLOW US ON: Ladybird Fashion & Lifestyle Magazine @Ladybirdmag ladybirdmagazine 4 | April 2015
CEO Zeyad Sorour Editor-in-Chief Ismail Marzouk Managing Editor Christine Kassasseya PR & Marketing Manager Naira El lamei Project Manager Samar Zaki Editor MAGDA EL SEHRAWI Editor RAGHDA ARAFA Art Director Eman Salama Senior Graphic Designer MARINA RAAFAT Financial Director Haitham Hamouda Distribution Ahmed Abou el Ela, Ahmed Fawzy, Mohamed ABD EL NASSER & alaa hussein
23 Emad El Din Kamel St., Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt Tel/Fax: (+202) 22627533 www.ladybirdmagazine.com Distributed by Al-Ahram Association Printed by International Printing House (IPH)
Contributors
Heba Ezz
Lauren K. Clark
Writer A graduate student at the American University in Cairo, from Atlanta, Georgia. She completed her undergraduate studies at Spelman College. Her areas include anywhere from fashion, beauty, women's studies, travel, and multiple others. She enjoys living and experiencing all of the beauties and essence of life. For advice, please contact: iclark1903@aucegypt.edu
Cooking Expert She has lived most of her life abroad between Rome and London were her love for cooking all started there. She studied fine arts and nutrition, in which she beleives that they both compliment each other, as she defines cooking as an art. Recently joined CBC channel in a cooking show.
Interior and Furniture Designer For advice, please contact: Sally.elbardesy@live.com Facebook: Inbox - the pampered little storage
Contributors Pages: • 20 The Top Accessory Trends of 2015 by Ghadir El Agabany • 50 Best Tricks to Accessorize Your Place by Sally El Bardesy • 70 Toning The Love Muscles by Natascia Paolucci • 76 Recipes Around The World: Lebanese Cuisine by Heba Ezz • 78 10 Reasons Why Today’s Modern Egyptian Women Are Delaying the Prospects of Marriage by Lauren K. Clark
Ghadir Al agabany
Fashion Marketing Consultant She has an extended diversified experience in fashion business, commerce and retail. For advice, please contact: ghadir@alagabany.com alagabany.com 6 | April 2015
Sally El Bardesy
Natascia Paolucci
Professional Fitness Coach Between 1983 and 1989 she won several fitness competitions in the Netherlands, later she started to work as a model, made the cover of the first Marie Claire in Turkey. She became GO for the fabulous Club Méditerranée. Now she coaches in Katameya Heights and Palm Hills. For (private) classes, please contact: natascia.paolucci@hotmail.com
Noha Maher
A Poet Graduated in 2006 from Ain Shams University, 31-years-old Noha works as an Ophthalmologist at Al-Watany Eye Hospital and at Ministry of Civil Aviation. Noha’s favorite hobby is poetry.
Contributors Pages: Eissa F. Banna
Talented Writer Graduated in 2004 from Faculty of Commerce, Eissa has always been passionate about writing ever since he was only 7 years old. He currently works as a copywriter in an International advertising agency. He has a wide experience in planting and gardening, with a small precious collection of flowering trees, which are his source of inspiration.
• 24 Spring’s Freshest and Fashionable Looks From Runways by Engy Gouzlan • 40 Best Tips for Healthy Nails by Ayat Seif Elnasr • 44 Easy DIY Scrubs To Get Your Skin Spring Ready by Basma Shams • 49 Bring Them In by Eissa F. Banna • 85 Side Of The Moon by Noha Maher
Engy Gouzlan Ayat Seif Elnasr
Beauty and Fashion Blogger A certified makeup artist from Robert Jones Academy. Studied Business Consulting in Notre Dame University, USA. Has BA in English Literature from Ain Shams University. For advice, please contact: ayatseifelnasr@hotmail.com Facebook: TheVanityblogger Instagram: thevanityblog 8 | April 2015
Founder of Gouzlan Jewelry Shop Ever since her early childhood, Engy recognized her passion for fashion. She was dazzled with the mix and match of colors, styles, and designs in runways as well as the accessories, which drastically complemented any outfit. Engy is currently designing her own line and showcasing them in her own Jewelry Shop ‘Gouzlan’ and on social media. For advice, please contact: engybelal@hotmail.com Facebook: Gouzlan Instagram: EngyGZ
Basma Shams
Beauty Blogger A product junkie, avid beauty reviewer and DIY obsessed! A graduate of the Univesity of Ottawa with a MA in IMC. For advice, please contact: basmashams@gmail.com Facebook: Natural Beauty Secrets
The Editor's Note Spring flowers are blooming, and so are some of our dormant wishes and desires. Our spring issue is full of hope, love, and optimism. I find this season the perfect time to renew some of my New Year’s resolution, modify the strategies I made, and even come up with wilder ones, for this year is only lived once. That’s why; I planned to shower you with all bold yet cheerful articles that would cover all aspects of this jolly time. Here comes the sun. We have rounded up the latest fashion news, runway trends, and editor’s selected bits and pieces for this spring’s extravagant styles. You might be a prisoner to some delimited perceptions… it’s time to set yourself free. Renew your usual fashion taste and try drastic styles that you’ve never had before. Gingham crop tops, bold floral pieces, head-to-toe white, one-shoulder cuts with roomy denim, military greens, juxtaposing color combinations in pastel colors, beaded high heel sandals, delicately crafted origami fabric dress, and never miss the cool white sneakers. We are providing you with a sneak peak of the freshest and hottest beauty looks and products, to help you get ahead in the beauty game this season. The rich, romantic shade was a favorite on runways, with a palette of pastel makeup that gives light, fresh, and elegant look throughout the day. Also enjoy a dreamlike, enchanting feeling with our spring home trends, designed to make you happy and thrilled. New trends are emerging… so fight home apathy and transform your home with colorful paint, bright accents, and fresh decorating ideas. To keep you ahead of the curve, we’ve rounded up the soon-to-be hottest home trends faster than you can pin them on Pinterest. It is almost bikini weather, so it is time to jump out of winter exercise-and-eating slump, and hurriedly think about a new shape-up plan. We’ve got you covered with some workouts and lifestyle adjustments to help you get in shape. In the end, resolutions are effective goal-setting, life enriching experience that would provide a meaningful purpose while benefiting your favor. So whatever your new spring resolution is, strive to make it happen and believe that overcoming challenges will only make you stronger.
Happy Easter!
Christine Kassasseya 10 | April 2015
Fashion
LADYBIRD LOVES JENNIFER LAWRENCE IN BE DIOR CAMPAIGN
D
ior unveils another campaign with Jennifer Lawrence, in which the actress is dressed in a feminine strength, classic style, and youthful appearance. Lawrence definitely has what it takes to be a beautiful model; glowy skin, messy hair, perfect poses, and above all, a chic face.
12 | April 2015
The Spring/Summer 2015 campaign, which is shot by esteemed photographer Paolo Roversi, showcases the actress in Be Dior colorful handbags and various elegant outfits in a minimalistic location and natural aura. This season’s styles comes in a variety of textures and colors, featuring a wrap polka-dotted dress paired with lemon-hued, top handle “Be Dior” purse, and leather pointed-toe D’orsay; sleek white crew neck and black fit-andflare mini skirt; In addition to elegant black dress and coat.
The 24-year-old lady has been a face of the label since 2012, and she continuously impresses us with her remarkable campaigns. We expect to see the gorgeous actress in a number of Christian Dior ensembles to come.
NB: To get her look, opt for Dior Diorshow Mascara and Christian Dior Addict Lip Maximize High Volume Lip Plumper.
Fashion
Steal
Amal Alamuddin’s
*All prices are subject to change
Style!
PRADA 06RS BLACK 1AB0A7 SUNGLASSES EGP 1,540
BALLIN “AMAL” TOTE BALLIN.COM EGP 9,080
MOSCHINO TRIMMED DRESS FARFETCH.COM EGP 2,930 GIANVITO ROSSI ‘PLEXI’ SANDALS FARFETCH.COM EGP 4,295 14 | April 2015
Fashion
*All prices are subject to change
JIMMY CHOO ESTELLE LACE BROW BAR METAL SUNGLASSES LANECRAWFORD.COM EGP 3,040
EMILIO PUCCI EMBROIDERED SHORTS FARFETCH.COM EGP 13,385 GUISEPPE ZANOTTI DESIGN ‘LORENZ’ CROC EFFECT LEATHER WEDGE SNEAKERS LANECRAWFORD.COM EGP 10,034
VALENTINO MACRAME TOP FARFETCH.COM EGP 10,311
ST. JOHN CRYSTAL FAUX PEARL HINGE CUFF LANECRAWFORD.COM EGP 1,870
RENE’ CAOVILLA POINT TOE LEATHER PUMPS LANCECRAWFORD.COM EGP 4,720
MOSCHINO TOWELLING SKIRT FARFETCH.COM EGP 3,035
MOSCHINO TOWELLING BUSTIER FARFETCH.COM EGP 3,477
JENNIFER MEYER MINI STAR 18K WHITE GOLD BRACELET LANECRAWFORD.COM EGP 13,770 April 2015 | 15
Fashion
Spring
Hottest Fashion Trends
T
The spring has started, and a new season means a new opportunity to update your wardrobe with the freshest, hottest, and most stylish bits and pieces. As we do every month, we are providing you with the best looks and trends of 2015 from International brands stores available in local malls. From clothes and swim wear to accessories and lingerie, it’s time to enjoy shopping with your friends.
bebe
bebe bebe
karen millen H&M
H&M H&M
bcbg 16 | April 2015
bebe double agent Bershka karen millen
H&M karen millen
bebe
bcbg
desigual H&M
oysho H&M
H&M
H&M
Bershka
bebe
marina Rinaldi
H&M
H&M
bebe
karen millen
desigual April 2015 | 17
H&M
H&M karen millen
oysho
H&M
H&M H&M H&M
H&M
marina Rinaldi
H&M
bebe
bebe H&M
H&M marina Rinaldi 18 | April 2015
bebe
karen millen
H&M H&M
H&M
H&M
bebe H&M
karen millen desigual
Bershka
bcbg H&M
oysho
H&M
karen millen
H&M
bebe
bebe
H&M
H&M April 2015 | 19
Fashion
2015
The Top Accessory Trends of
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BY: Ghadir Al agabany
ack in the very old days, the Pharaohs and the Romans first created scarves and they were never ever out of fashion since then. Different styles were introduced; various prints, diverse textures, and a whole load of trendy ways to wear them. Accessorizing with scarves, wraps, shawls, bandannas, and turbans ultimately transforms your appearance, elevates your style, and stimulates your look to another level.
20 | April 2015
A tote bag never goes out of style. From colourful embellished summer bags, big bags with all essential office items, to weekend oversized totes with different prints and styles; shoulder big bags are excellent for everyday lifestyle. Spring/Summer bags range from cross-body bags, trendy totes, evening clutches, weekend leather bags, sleek slender handbags, and finally the bucket bag. >>
April 2015 | 21
Shades are in the hallucinating phases of extreme creativity to even more thrilling designs. Gotta admit, crazy is cool! It is very tempting to have at least a couple of frantic styles to brag about. These wild frames could come in wood, round and sequined, rectangle and padded, frameless with diamonds, or the 70s guess-who-I-am-facecovering shades. They really make an entrance and are beneficial for attention seekers.
22 | April 2015
FASHION NEWS Temraza’s Autumn Winter 15/16 Collection “Once Upon à Paris” Temraza Haute Couture for evening and bridal wear, in collaboration with Jolirie, has received the first place award for its AW’15/16 collection during Paris Fashion Week last month. Gregg Asher, American fashion expert and blogger, has chosen Farida Temraz as the best designer among both French and International participants from all around the world. Farida Temraz is the first Egyptian fashion designer to receive the first place award in the history of fashion. “Once Upon à Paris” has been inspired by the famous Parisian shows like Moulin Rouge and Lido.
Olivia Wilde Shows Sustainable Style with Conscious Exclusive at H&M H&M’s new Conscious Exclusive collection shows what can be done with more sustainable materials, using fabrics such as hemp, organic linen, and organic leather to create pieces of great individual style. The collection, worn exclusively by actress and humanitarian Olivia Wilde in the campaign, will be available in around 200 H&M stores worldwide, as well as online, from April 16. This year’s Conscious Exclusive collection takes inspiration from around the planet, where each piece in the collection is special and unique.
Ghadir Alagabny Glamorous Presence at Jumia Chic Asfour Event Fashion Funds Ultimate Fashion Garage Fashion Funds have hosted an exquisite event, Eat and Barrel, showcasing a number of local and International brands to introduce the latest fashionable trends for fashion lovers. The founder of Fashion Garage, Heba Serag El Din, featured a one-of-a-kind event full of stalls of Cairo’s coolest designers including Zaam, Okhtein, Sherwal in addition to popular local stores like 69, The Dressing Room, Villa Baboushka, and Temple Tramp London. Exclusive trunk show modeled by an array of high profile and beautiful bloggers, in addition to lots of yummy bites. We’re already looking forward to the next event.
Fashion Marketing Consultant, Ghadir Alagabany, was the award presenter at the Jumia chic Asfour event at The Four Seasons Hotel, Giza. Ghadir was dressed in 50’s retro, graceful textured lace, layered with thin chic tulle underneath deep red velvet skirting with Marc Jacobs matching red kitten heels. Hair and makeup were made by Kriss Beauty Salon. April 2015 | 23
Fashion
Spring’s Freshest and fashionable looks from runways By: Engy Gouzlan
We’re anxiously awaiting spring’s arrival; meanwhile, we can make sure our wardrobes are ready for the new collection. Many of us are very curious about this season’s biggest fashion looks and the items we shall be wearing in spring 2015. With hundreds of shows across four cities, skimming through the endless innovative fashion ideas in the spring collections is tricky to say the least. It’s why we’ve done the heavy lifting for you, with a cheat sheet of the hottest trends that made the biggest impact on the runways in New York, London, Paris, and Milan. Whether you’re looking for formal attire for your working wardrobe, or desperately seeking ways to spice up your style up, here’s everything you’ll need to know about the look of this spring. What we found were subtle — and not so subtle — nods to the 1970s, sporty touches that don›t require a gym membership, shoulder-baring silhouettes, new uses for tiered skirts, and gingham prints that are so not your grandmother›s. Keep reading to identify the best styles and trends brought from the best runways to you.
24 | April 2015
Wide Pants and Street Style 70’s style were considered one of the top trends for 2015, that’s why each street style review is full of such outfits. Elie Saab gave his interpretation of the now popular “sportswear for women” trend, where he showcased blouses combined with shorts and wide-leg pants.
Total White Look Do not be afraid to look boring wearing clothes of the same color. Sometimes monochrome wardrobe is much better than color blocking or other trendy mix. Head to toe crisp whites have been beautifying the runways once again.
Gingham This is great attire that will make its way into the new season this year. These trends come from the mid-18th century. Most people refer to them as tablecloth, because of the resemblance they have. This print is going to make a great comeback leaving ladies looking stylish. It is common with crop tops, fashionable dresses, and jackets.
Bold Color Blocks There was no shying away from color on the Dsquared catwalk, where blocks of color were big, bright, and bold.
The New Festival Girl Give your cutoff denim shorts a rest. From Saint Laurent to Gucci, Pucci, and Dior, the festival-bound next summer will have something new to celebrate. Stretches of printed chiffon and “stolen from my boyfriend’s band” jackets, lacy baby-doll dresses, relaxed-fit print trousers, and long flowing vests, will guarantee your backstage access.
Summer Evenings Who needs a gown? A crop top and ladylike skirt will do the trick—waist-whittling proportions and only the subtlest flash of flesh turn a tried-and-true evening option into something decidedly modern.
Fringe Seen on everything from pants and dresses to purses, this boho look has been spotted all over this season’s runways. Lazaro Hernandez used unraveling strands, whereas Alberta Ferretti paired the look with sheer fabrics and floral appliqués. This spring is all about movement—start with the runways’ ubiquitous flapping and swinging fringe. April 2015 | 25
Fashion Deana Shaaban’s Spring/Summer Collection:
E
26 | April 2015
An Exotic Affair xuding color and personality, Deana Shaaban’s spring/summer ‘15 is furnished with comfortable harem pants, loose garments, sensual patterns, and signature Deana Shaaban summer dresses. Of course, the collection would not be complete without the staple multi-colored, flowy maxi designs perfect for fabulous morning function and this season’s multiple beach weddings.
Fashion
‘Around The World in One Night’ Displays The Top Fashion Trends for This Season
Retail Group Egypt is pleased to announce the official date for Cairo’s most anticipated fashion show showcasing the hottest and latest Spring/Summer ‘ 15 looks! Celebrating the vibrant season, Retail Group Egypt invites you to attend “Around The World in One Night” fashion show, which is taking place at the Baron Empain Palace, Heliopolis. An exclusive press conference will also take place prior to the show, for any queries regarding the different brands featured on the runway, along with an orientation session about the upcoming projects being launched this season by Retail Group Egypt.
April 2015 | 27
Fashion Clashing
Pop Art
A
As is the wild and roaring global street style, local trending fashion is chasing a challenge of traditional fine art hybrid with a contradictory mode of popular art mass culture. It’s a rebellious movement of visual communication, creating unconventional dull context to new imagery of one’s personal inner conflict, reverse attitude, and imaginary expressionism.
Photo shoot credits:
Photography: Daniel Salib Photography Styling: Ghadir El Agabany Makeup: Eman Arafa Hair: Kriss Beauty Salon Model: Mony Helal
28 | April 2015
Maxi low back gown by Norine Farah. Clutch and espadrilles at Cairo Boutique.
April 2015 | 29
Cape with golden embroidery and ethnic tee by Nazeeka. Pencil golden skirt by Maison Saedi. Bag, choker, earrings, and footwear at Cairo Boutique.
30 | April 2015
Accessories by Cairo Boutique. Bustier by Maison Saedi. Multicolored Jeggings by Venom.
April 2015 | 31
Draped linen dress by Dina Shaker. Jacket by Sherine Begermy. Bag and choker at Cairo Boutique.
32 | April 2015
Tee and back printed kimono by Nazeeka. Loose linen pants by Dina Shaker. Ballerina, clutch, and choker at Cairo Boutique. April 2015 | 33
Dress by A_lia_ Couture. Studded footwear and clutch at Cairo Boutique. 34 | April 2015
High low power shoulder printed blazer by Sherine Begermy.
April 2015 | 35
SPOTTED CELEBS LATEST NEWS & GOSSIP
Captain America and Star-Lord Go Beyond the Call of Duty Chris Evans in his Captain America costume strolled the halls of the Seattle Children’s Hospital accompanied by his friend, Chris Pratt, spending time with children. The visit came after a bet in which Chris Evans, a fan of Patriots football team, agreed to show up in costume if his team lost to the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl, while Chris Pratt promised to come to Christopher’s Haven Cancer center in his Guardians of the Galaxy costume if his team lost. StarLord and Captain America decided to visit two hospitals anyway; Seattle Children’s Hospital and Christopher’s Haven. Both Marvel and Disney contributed in making this day so special.
Robert Pattinson and FKA Twigs Dream of Having Lots of Kids! It is crystal clear that both Robert Pattinson, 28, and FKA Twigs, 27, are madly in love with each other. The cute couple shows affection and passion in public and it seems that this time, Pattinson’s relationship will finally last. The young actor has bought her a preengagement ring, because he didn’t find yet the perfect diamond ring for her. They even started to research baby names, as they are planning to have lots of kids and travel extensively to teach them about various cultures. The couple is expected to announce their wedding date soon.
Harrison Ford Recovers From A Plane Crash The 72-year-old actor was flying a WW2 vintage plane, which had engine trouble upon take off. Ford, who is an experienced pilot, had nothing to do other than making an emergency landing away from homes, which he did safely, but with some minor injuries that will be healed with time. Ford’s son, Ben, tweeted that his dad is ok and incredibly a strong man. Sarcastically, Ford did a movie about a place crash more than a decade ago! 36 | April 2015
April 2015 | 37
Beauty
Best Tips for Healthy Nails BY: AYAT SEIF ELNASR
H
ow many times have our nails hung on our knit sweaters, or chipped for opening a can of Coke? How many times at work, when you are too delved in your office typing on your laptop and, out of nowhere, you notice your yellow nails with white marks on it? How many of you spend a fortune on their nails and yet nothing seems to make them look any healthier but hiding them beneath 3 coats of nail polish? Say goodbye to those ugly nails and follow up the step by step guideline for perfect nails.
Start With The Following Nutrients
• Almonds and Walnuts: Loaded with omega-3 essential fats, which provide the fatty acids your nails need to stay strong and prevent splitting. Sprinkle half a handful of nuts over your salad or stir-fry or mix into yogurt to get an omega-3 boost. • Carbohydrates: Increase whole grains (brown rice, rye, oats, barley, buckwheat, and quinoa) fresh fruit and vegetables intake. Whole grain rich in Iron is essential for healthy nails, skin color, and hair growth. Additional iron sources include meats, eggs, dark leafy vegetables, and legumes. • Fats: Avoid all sources of saturated fat, including red meat and unfermented dairy foods, as these tend to be inflammatory. Increase essential fatty acids from seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame) and oily fish (mackerel, salmon, tuna, and sardines). 40 | April 2015
Examples of healthy fats are butter, olive oil, coconut oil, and avocados. The health of every cell membrane in your body is dependent on the fats in your diet. • Proteins: Your nails are composed of laminated layers of a protein called keratin, which is also found in your hair and skin. Reduce red meat, nonfermented dairy products, and all sources of protein attached to saturated fats, processed meats,...etc. Ensure sufficient high quality protein from skinless chicken and turkey, fish, pulses, chicken, egg whites, low-fat dairy products, soy, legumes, and lentils. • Fibers: Include soluble and insoluble fiber to ensure effective removal of toxins and to provide a healthy gut environment. This includes beans, lentils, pulses, oat, and prunes.
Best Vitamins For Your Nails • Biotin: Egg yolks, liver, brown rice, whole grains, and legumes. • Vitamin E: Wheat germ oil, nuts and seeds, fish, eggs, avocados, and green vegetables. • Calcium: Dairy products, eggs, nuts, pulses, and dark green leafy vegetables. • Selenium: Organic meat, fish, muscle meat, whole grains, dairy, fruit, onions, and garlic. • Zinc: Oysters, liver, brewers yeast, eggs, whole grains, pumpkin seeds, and mushrooms. • Antioxidant Complex: Red, orange and yellow fruit and vegetables, red berries, blueberries, blackberries, red grapes, dark green leafy vegetables, and avocados. • Essential Fatty Acids: Cold water fish, nuts, and cold pressed vegetable oils.
Nail Care Techniques • Another reason that may be damaging your nails that maybe you didn’t notice is you nail care technique (aka manicuring). If you follow the right care method, your nail won’t be suffering anymore. • Trimming: Trim your nails, then file from the corner of your nail to the center of your nail. If your nails are short or you want to grow them out, just file them. Don't file your nails back and forth. If you want to keep your nails short, do not file them all the way to the length you likenail files are made to buff them out, not to decrease their height. To do so, use nail clippers and then file them after you have reached the height that suits you. • Manicure Soaking: After clipping and trimming, soak your nail in a mix combination of olive oil and sugar (equal portions) and rub all over your hands and feet for about 30 seconds. Sugar acts as a natural scrub that will rub away dead skin cells. Wash your hands and legs with lukewarm water, dry them with a soft towel, and then apply a rich moisturizer. • Cuticles: Push back your cuticles gently with an orange stick, metal cuticle pusher, or rubber tipped cuticle stick. Better use the rubber or wood tip than metal as the metal harms and dries the nail bed (cuticle area). Don’t cut or trim the extra cuticle as it will only makes things worse. Gently trim them with a cuticle clipper if necessary once a month. • Nail Polish Remover: Use an acetone-free formula, to decrease the damage the nail polish remover may cause. However, No matter what kind of polish remover you use, it's going to have a drying effect on the nail area and cuticles.
Finally, nails grow about one-tenth of a millimeter a day, which means that it takes a fingernail about four to six months to fully regenerate. So, be patient, it will take time until you notice any results. But, it’s totally worth the wait. Healthy nails appear smooth, without ridges or grooves. They are uniform in color and consistency and free of spots or discoloration.
April 2015 | 41
Beauty
Hottest Spring Makeup Colors for 2015
S
pring makeup tends to remain the same every year; bronzy skin, pinkish lipsticks, pastel eye shadows, and neutral blushers, but this year’s runway threw us a few stunning and thrilling makeup colors for this season. Magenta lips, metallic smoky shadow, lavender eyes, pastel nails, and more! Check for the seven prettiest trends to try this season.
Graphic Eyeliner
Black liquid eyeliner went from classic and bold styles flicked at Oscar de la Renta to exaggerated ladylike swoosh Prada and double up Emilio Pucci. Try Diorshow Art Pen Long-Lasting Wear.
42 | April 2015
Flaming Lips
Deep berry lipstick was dominating at Dolce & Gabbana runways, while Carolina Herrera’s collection used radiant purple-tinged pink color. Opt for tangerine, violet, peach, Russian red, and fuchsia rose. Try Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Volupte in 206.
Painterly Pops of Color
Metallic brown eye shadow and pink nude lips are very common this season for daytime look. Varying from chocolate-bronzy at Giorgio Armani and delicate brown in beige winter feeling at Gucci, a brown palette of eye shadow is an excellent investment for all skin colors and seasons. Try Clarins Bronzing collection including blusher and foundation.
Pastel Nails
Spring pastels are always pale and sweet, but this year is like no other year. Lemon yellow, tangerine orange, sky blue, and nude were conquering spring runways. Try Rimmel London 60 Seconds nail polish in Blue My Mind.
Purple Haze
Lavender, a spring staple, now comes in unexpected forms and styles. From light lavender eye shadow at Derek Lam to the moody orchid at Vera Wang, this color is suitable for daytime and night-outs. Try Laura Mercier Eye Shadow in African Violent.
Ornamented Hairpieces
This season’s ornamental hair accessories are invading for you to try effortless styles with patterned headbands, graphic comb, floral blooms, floppy hats, and sparky barrettes. Try Celine’s gold barrette.
Bare Minimum
Say goodbye to foundation and mascara, for this season will focus more on the natural beauty. At Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Cloe’, and Tory Burch, makeup artists used minimal makeup including eyeliner, lipstick, and blusher.
Beauty
Skin
Easy DIY Scrubs to Get Your
Skin Ready for Spring BY: BASMA SHAMS
Spring is approaching and now it’s time to get scrubbing ladies! Rejuvenate your skin with inexpensive homemade scrubs and exfoliate your dull skin with natural ingredients of your own choice. You can even make homemade scrubs in jars and ribbon, and give them to your friends during festive seasons and birthdays. Here are four easy scrubs that will give your skin a natural glow and a wallet full of extra cash.
Almond Oil Scrub Almond oil is rich in omega-3 and contains zero fat; therefore, it is ideal for acne prone and oily skin. Mix sweet almond oil with 3 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir until you achieve a paste like consistency; wet your face, scrub and then rinse to reveal soft subtle skin!
Turmeric and Yogurt Scrub Turmeric has amazing healing and whitening properties. Mix 3 large tablespoons of crushed turmeric with 4 tablespoons of yoghurt to form a paste. Apply a thick layer to the area to be scrubbed, leave it on your skin until it dries, then gently rub your face to scrub away the dead skin.
Edible Peppermint Lip Scrub Coffee-Coconut Oil Sugar Scrub Coffee is the wonder ingredient in this antioxidant packed-scrub: it not only reinvigorates your senses, but it also lightens and brightens the skin and temporarily minimizes cellulite. Mix 1 cup of raw coconut oil (comes in solid form and can be melted in the microwave on low heat for 2o seconds) with half a cup of ground coffee and half a cup of brown sugar. This concoction can be stored in the pantry for up to two months. 44 | April 2015
Mix 3 drops of essential peppermint oil to 3 tablespoons of white sugar apply it with your fingers to your lips to lift away any chapped dry areas. You can use this scrub once every week to ensure you have soft lips always!
Happy Scrubbing!
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Beauty Hair
New Haircuts To Try For
Spring
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 It is a new season and a new chance to impress your beloved ones with a new stylish haircut paired with this season’s creative outfits. Options are overwhelming, and can vary from textured chops to face-framing fringe. Here are six top spring haircuts inspired from our favorite Hollywood celebrities.
1.The Boy Cut
2.The Asymmetrical Bob
3.The Asymmetrical Pixie
4.The French Girl Fringe
5.The Textured Lob
6.The Off-Kilter Lob
April 2015 | 45
Faces of Egypt
Ahmed Hamdi
Founder of Nile Eyewear Why did you choose the eyewear industry and how do you feel about being the first to introduce a local collection? Eyewear is among the most attractive and valuable type of accessories that adds style to the wearer and even manifest their personality and taste. I wanted to create something purely Egyptian that would eventually make it a mark in the industry to prove that anyone can introduce a local good and excel despite harsh political and economical circumstances. Nile eyewear is not just an ordinary ‘eyewear’ brand based in Egypt, but also a catalyst for young entrepreneurs to prove that dreams can be fulfilled with determination and wiliness. Can you give us a brief about your products and kind of materials you use? The idea behind Nile Eyewear is to create fashionable and creative sunglasses with different styles and materials. So far, we have designed shades and glasses with plastic, acetate wood, and metal. We also have a limited edition of 46 | April 2015
“I always choose the hardest thing, the most challenging objectives that people haven’t really done before, because I believe that if you want to reach something no one else has reached, you have to take a path others haven’t taken.” sunglasses embellished with Swarovski, and we are looking forward to making new collaborations in the near future. Where do you draw inspiration from to create eyewear styles? It is very hard to figure out a specific source of inspiration, because life is constantly changing and evolving; however, I find it imperative to travel to different countries in order to have an opportunity to attend fashion shows as well as get exposed to the unique tastes and trends from all markets around the world. What makes you so passionate about eyewear? I believe that everyone can make a difference in the community and introduce new creative ways to boom the local industries. Instead of shopping international goods and beneficing the global economy, we should seek to produce competitive goods to target the local citizens, including the elite, in order to boost the economy and general welfare.
Do you have any projects lined up for the future that you would like to share with your readers? A brand new elite line called “AhmedHamdiDesigns� will be launched in 2016. This line will be characterized with unique, out-of-the-box ideas of eyewear that were never present before. So stay tuned.
Home
SEASCAPE SET AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
DOTS RESIN FRAME AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
aztec Makeup Bags AVAILABLE ON INSTAGRAM WALLOFFRAMES
CERAMIC VASE AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
FLOWERS LINEN CUSHION AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
RAISED DESIGN GLASSWARE AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
WILDFLOWER OVAL SERVING DISH AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
SKURAR PLANT POTS AVAILABLE AT IKEA
HUMMINGBIRD PRINT BOX AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
KIVIK ONE-SEAT SECTION COVER AVAILABLE AT IKEA 48 | April 2015
DAISIES METAL FRAME AVAILABLE AT ZARAHOME
HEMNES DRESSING TABLE WITH MIRROR AVAILABLE AT IKEA
Home
Bring Them In
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BY: Eissa Francis
In our last issue, we reveled about the festival of nature and we provided some tips and tricks on how to join this glorious festival. (The season of blooming and flowering), which we hope you enjoyed reading. Now we want to help you choose which plant to bring home. The addition of aroma and color that will fill your home as a result of acquiring one of those beauties cannot be matched by buying a mere sofa or ornament. It was so difficult to whittle down our choices, because each plant has its own unique beauty and benefit, but we thought about choosing the most available and suitably adequate ones for indoor environments.
1) Tora Vine
The Tora Vine can be easily found and is widely available across the Egyptian market. It is commonly referred to as (Bootus), an evergreen decorative plant, which can endure the lack of sun light, thus an optimum choice for indoor planting. In addition to it being a very good air purifier, the leaves are green with white spots; you can hang it anywhere at home, or put it in a large pot with a stick in the middle so that it can climb the stick and take a beautiful tree shape in any corner of the house. Water it once or twice a week or whenever you feel it needs to (after testing the soil with your finger). It is preferable to put it in the balcony for an hour or two every morning for sun light (make sure it’s not in direct sun light), and fresh air, to keep the plant healthy.
2) Gardenia
Gardenia is an evergreen flowering plant; leaves are dark green and glossy, flower is white, and it starts flowering from mid spring with a strong lovely scent. Gardenia is capable of growing in outdoor and indoor settings. Caring about gardenia is not easy, but not that difficult as well. First it needs indirect sun light, so you better place it near a window. The hardest aspect of keeping it healthy is keeping the humidity high enough, because hot dry weather will cause the leaves to dry. In order to keep it in high humidity you must mist the plant daily with a spray bottle, or (which we prefer more) you can place the plant on a dish filled with pebbles, add water to the pebble tray and the water will evaporate, to increase humidity. Gardenia doesn’t like to be saturated with water. A constant supply of moisture ensures the plant retains its blossom and remains healthy. Just stick your finger into the soil and if it feels dry then please proceed with watering it, but if the soil is soggy that means you are watering it too much. It is better to add acidic fertilizers to the soil from time to time to ensure that the plant is receiving the nutrients it so richly deserves and needs. April 2015 | 49
Home
Best Tricks to
Accessorize Your Place BY: Sally El Bardesy
50 | April 2015
What are home accessories? Home accessories are the very main aspect of design, theme or idea of any place. 90% of all houses for example have the same items; walls, callings, furniture, and space. Only 20% of all houses may have same accessories though! Home accessories are the bag, shoes, belt, shades, and the wrist-watch of the house. Yes - not the rings, necklace, bracelet and earrings. Those are the part of the accessories ‘details’. Some furniture is already designed with those details so you needn’t add details, only accessories. Interesting right? Home accessories holds everything from the curtains, carpets, wall paper, lightings, runners and cushions, to vases , ashtrays , candles, frames, mirrors, and statues.
world is full of accessories and the choices are getting tougher everyday. Unless you know exactly what do you need, why and how to place it, you’ll reach no end in this maze. To try and simplify it a bit, a ‘must have’ list should come first. Take into consideration that you’ll definitely get carpets, curtains, throws, cushions, and lightings first. As a second step, you’ll also need to get the vases, frames, mirrors, paintings, candles, coasters and clocks and ashtrays that are also the must-haves. Usually, according to their design, you’ll know which to hang on wall and which to place on the tables.
How to accessorize your place?
Why accessorize? Yes, that’s an important question. You need to know the ‘aim’ behind the home accessories. It’s not just a matter of the overall visual scene; accessories create the whole scenario and script for the entire place. Also, changing them creates a dramatic effect accordingly.
When to accessorize? 99% of people do it the at the very end. That’s why it usually turns out to be quire useless. Did you ever wonder why some TV series or movies are just so good that you keep watching it over and over again? While during others you might just chat on your mobile and only glimpse the screen every couple of minutes? It’s all
about the accessorizing. Directors present the story with a particular logic behind their shots. Every shot is directed from the camera’s point of view. So naturally every color, light background, and space movement is a kind of necessary accessory. That’s pretty much what you need to keep in mind and imagine when you decorate your own place. You need to bear in mind that a carpet you use has a runner with a color on top of a table, in material that will either compete with it or enhance it.
Which accessories to add? Well this is the hardest part. The
There are a lot of strategies, plans, and tips for this. However the best and most effective should be as follows: After painting the walls and installing main lights and furnishing, adding accessories such as curtains, carpets and cushions or throws will be your overlapping step where you’ll actually put your ideas into a theme. These items will be your life-savers as well. For example, if your furniture and walls turned out to be too dark or too pale, the curtain and the cushions would save that. Sometimes you just put things together and colors clash at the end, the carpets and cushions will then work as a common harmonic factor. Non-moving accessories such as lightings, mirrors, and statues, or complementary small furniture, will need to be planned ahead with each section. For example, the door-way entrance; a side table and a pouf will need to be planned well according to size and space. Mostly hanging a mirror in that place needs to be set at a suitable angle for a good lighting but still safe enough not to break. >> April 2015 | 51
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Accessories create the whole scenario and script for the entire place.
52 | April 2015
big enough and not detail-oriented, like a statue for example. Other spots such as corner-tables and shelves will need medium to small elements to place, and you may go with details as much as you wish. Beware that the placing of objects should be either symmetrical or in a group form. For example, twoflower vases on each side or one lamp-shade plus an ashtray and a candle will create the look. One last thing you should know; accessories are there to either enhance the place by adding to the details, or to clearly send
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Now come the small bits and pieces, such as the vases, candles and the like. Please beware that such accessories should be placed in certain defined places, not everywhere and all over the place. Spots for accessories should be only small walls or columns, shelves, corner tables (NOT middle lounge tables) buffets and back-sofa tables. Finally comes the concept or the strategy behind putting what where, and how. It’s simple as this; far-away spots, or high-up places like shelves or stairs, will need big noticeable items. They should be
a certain message. You don’t only accessorize according to colors and space. Bohemian accessories will twist the look of a contemporary living, while a group of plain bold colors will add a youth fresh feel to a modern space. Dark, untraditional objects will offer a sense of mystery and power to your guests. Paintings and frames also set a mood so take care. Enjoy accessorizing your place, and remember that the more effort you put into doing it, the more it gives back.
Escape
Shopping 4 Places in Cairo That Make You Feel Like You’re in Europe
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airo is a city that never fails to baffle. Diverse, culturally rich, and insanely crowded, it has recently become the hub for a huge range of new shops and projects that seem to be popping up all over the place. You have your fair share of stores that sell handy-crafts, beauty products, leather-goods, and signature jewelry. But every now and then, you come across stores that are simply mind-blowing in how removed from Cairo they make you feel. Ladybird has done it’s hunting, and has come up with a short list of places that make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe!
1 IKEA:
What an experience! The famous Swedish franchise has been in Egypt for just over a year now, and shopping for contemporary home accessories in Cairo has never been easier, where their minimalist exhibits and gigantic warehouse showcases absolutely everything a person might need for their modern home, complete with storage and furnishing solutions for even the tiniest of spaces. IKEA will take on one homely element at a time, where you’ll find yourself winding through living spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms, office spaces, children’s rooms, kitchens, and dining rooms, all fully equipped with even the tiniest details – your towels, lighting, electronics, cleaning items, pillows, duvet covers, carpets, and even chopping boards and cutlery. IKEA also introduces a new DIY culture, where while assistance is available if needed, you can still endeavor to find what you want in their storehouse on your own. Their ever-neat and systematic restaurant serving something deliciously akin to home-cooked food is also noteworthy, where no one can squeeze a head of you in a queue. You’re even encouraged to clean up after yourself afterwards. IKEA is definitely the onestop shop to make any house a home, and offers what few other stores in Cairo can – possibilities.
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House of Cocoa: Gourmet chocolate, and variety, and hospitality? Yes please! These guys received the Food Specialty Award. And it’s no wonder that they did. The moment you walk in, your senses are sensually assailed by the divine scent of sweet, warm chocolate – and more importantly, the glorious sight of your favorite international premium chocolate brands all under one roof. Offering quite an experience for your eyes, you’ll also find it all here – everything from Butter’s White Chocolate, to all of Dolfin’s nougat and caramel chocolate bars, to Green & Black’s Organic brands, to Simon Colls, Choc Stars, Cavalier, Milka, Prestat, and Gnaw…. Tempted? You should be! House of Cocoa have taken the time and care to create a world of experience for their customers, whereby they can easily forget everything just by looking at the colorful displays. They also offer everything from chocolate covered nuts, drinking chocolate brands, chocolate truffles, chocolate cook-books, special chocolate hampers, chocolate fondue equipment, and customize chocolate gifts. House of Cocoa gives you the ultimate chocolate experience through it’s boutique style shop, and you will ultimately feel like you don’t exist in Cairo, but rather, a snazzy and very welcoming version of Willy Wonka’s factory.
3 Bloom:
If you’ve been to Boots in London, then you’ll immediately feel you’ve been transported back there the minute you set foot into Bloom, which recently opened in Mohandessin. Everything about this 3-story store draws you in; the warm smell of exquisite perfume wafting beyond the doors, the lights reflecting off polished white marble floors, and the dazzling vision shelves filled from floor to celling with a massive array of products. You’ll immediately forget the hustle and bustle of Cairo upon entrance. Bloom is ultimately the first store in Egypt that combines pharmacutical products – cosmetics, fragrances, supplements, beauty products, hair and skin care, baby-care, mommy-care, and medication with a doctor on hand. Bloom’s 3rd floor is especially for baby-care, where you’ll find all you could ever need, from prams to pacifiers. Not only that, there’s also a movie hatch for kids, where you can leave them contentedly watching cartoons under staff supervision while you take a stroll through the store to indulge yourself. On your way down, the 2nd floor is equipped with cosmetics, perfumes and a mini makeup studio, while the ground floor, is an ocean of skin and hair-care. Bloom has a number of compelling features including special orders, giftwrapping, rewards program, and experienced staff.
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Debenhams: We aren’t big on department stores in Egypt but you can’t resist Debenhams. It is, literally, a onestop department store for everything you could need on a personal shopping spree – underwear, clothes, something fancy, something casual… a gift for him (or her), outfits for the kids, towels, you name it! Recently opened in Cairo Festival City Mall, it is safe to say that it is one of the biggest department store’s we’ve got. Because it is initially a UK brand, you’d expect the prices to be outrageous – and while some items are definitely on the pricy side, there is quite a bit that is pleasantly affordable, particularly for the quality you’d be getting. The store is divided into children’s, men’s, and women’s sections, with sections for toiletries, towels, and beddings. Indulge here in quality brands that you’d most likely find in Egypt, only in the UK, especially in the women’s department. The store offers an incredible array of items from a huge variety of brands, as well as items exclusively by Debenhams designers. There is, literally, nothing you won’t find there. As a one-stop store, you are also moving at your own pace, where the staff leave you un-hustled to explore at your relaxed convenience. In the midst of the abundant shops open at the mall, Debenhams definitely tops them all.
April 2015 | 55
Escape
Top Easter Getaways
Sonesta Hotel Tower and Casino, Cairo Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence
Celebrate spring with family and friends and experience Sham El Nessim at Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence. Family fun, open air, great food awaits for a truly ShamEl Nessim dining experience in Cairo. Enjoy Four Seasons hospitality and book our Bed and Breakfast package in some of Cairo’s most spacious rooms and suites overlooking the Pyramids and Nile. Aura restaurant presents both indoor and outdoor seating options overlooking the pool and is offering a buffet packed with flavorsome dishes with Egyptian local favorites and a range of Lebanese grilled specialties, mezze, salads, and Oriental desserts.
HILTON CAIRO ZAMALEK RESIDENCES Keep your whole family entertained and celebrate this occasion by the Nile. Enjoy our flavourful Sham El Nessim breakfast and lunch for only LE 350 in a festive buffet spread. Interact and sing with our duet singers and DJ and join in with various activities for the children. Continue your celebration with our fantastic 2 bedroom Nile suite at only LE 2000 per night including breakfast buffet for four people. 56 | April 2015
Staying in Cairo during Easter is different with Sonesta. Get together with your family, friends, and the little ones for an inspiring Sham El Nessim day around the pool while enjoying the fresh air, sunlight, delectable breakfast, and brunch buffets with live entertainment, exciting kids’ activities and special buffet. For a splendid Easter getaway, book our “Family Accommodation Package” for only LE 600 per person in a double room including special Easter buffet breakfast and Easter brunch by the pool with live entertainment, special kids’ activities, and late check-out till 6:00 p.m.
Dusit Thani LakeView, Cairo Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo delivers an enchanting line-up of festivities and goodies to delight guests and give them a truly memorable and authentic experience. Celebrate an ultimate Easter and Sham El Nessim and enjoy great food, heart- warming Thai hospitality, and World Class facilities with your whole family. With live entertainment, fabulous kids’ activities, crafts, sports, games, and competitions, your little ones shall enjoy the festive atmosphere while you unwind and feel the warm breezes of springtime.
Kempinski Hotel, Soma Bay
Cairo Marriott
Treat yourself this Easter and book our special Easter package complete with remarkable fine dining experiences and exciting daily live entertainment at the Sultan Bar. Enjoy our signature Kempinski breakfast in the stunning winter sun, with a breathtaking sea view. The package includes your choice of luxury accommodation, late check-out until 4 pm, limousine transfer from and to Hurghada International Airport, breakfast and dinner buffet at The View Restaurant, one Indian and one Japanese set menu dinner during the stay, a bottle of rosé wine, free soft drinks mini-bar in guest rooms, in addition to free access to hotel health club including gym, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. The package is valid for stays from 25/03/2015 until 18/04/2015.
Looking for an Easter getaway? Look no further than the Cairo Marriott, with its lush khedival gardens right in the center of town. Enjoy the sun and perfect weather of Sham El Nessim with your friends, family, and kids too, with an exceptional royal indulgence. Go for the splendid Sham El Nessim breakfast at Omar’s café or experience our special BBQ brunch with its sizzling grills and Easter specialties at the Garden Promenade Café. For Easter goodies and chocolate bunnies for the kids, the Bakery is the place you shouldn’t miss. If you choose an escape not far from home, the Cairo Marriott is waiting to welcome you with an extravagant room experience with balconies offering stunning views on the historical gardens and palm trees or the serene river Nile.
Four Seasons Resort, Sharm El Sheikh It’s spring season, Easter holidays are approaching and to make it unforgettable, we have prepared a special Easter program for you and the whole family. Easter inspired parties include children’s activities, buffet selection, and plenty of live entertainment. Celebrations continue with a fabulous family lawn Easter party, egg hunt, live shows, and Camel riding on the scenic Reef Lawn. For an Italian ambience, guests can enjoy alfresco dinner at Il Frantoio restaurant offering a special 5 course Easter gourmet menu prepared by our Italian Chef Marco Acquaroli, or indulge into our fabulous carvery Easter buffet at Arabesque restaurant with varieties of spring salads, chilled local seafood, roast spring lamb and beef.
SOFITEL CAIRO EL GEZIRAH Spend a vibrant Easter by the Nile and enjoy the spring festival with selective dining options, highlighting the marvelous Easter mood. For an Easter to remember with family and friends, spend an unforgettable night in one of our luxurious rooms and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the scenery of Cairo. For an exceptional dining experience, Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah offers the finest culinary delights with our special Easter mouthwatering specialties at La Palmeraie on the spectacular Nile. For Oriental cuisine lovers, Kebabgy’s traditional BBQ set menu and the special baked a la minute bread is a must try. >> April 2015 | 57
SEMIRAMIS INTERCONTINENTAL, CAIRO Sham El Nessim is the perfect time for family and friends to enjoy our exciting array of offerings, including Sham El Nessim outdoor brunch by the pool for LE 275 ++ per person. Our magician’s entertainment show complimented by pleasant music tunes and face painting will guarantee unforgettable fun for the little ones. Book Single/ Double City View LE 1444; Single/ Double Nile View LE 1666; Single/ Double 4th floor Cabanas LE 1777.
Sheraton Miramar, EL Gouna Shrug off those winter blues and escape into the Sheraton Miramar El Gouna. The hotel offers delicious Easter breakfast buffet, Easter seafood BBQ with live band, special shrimps menu with antipasti buffet and dessert buffet for lunch. You will enjoy a pleasant moment at a nice boat bar, Coconuts Grove, and Miramar Bar. In additional to the kids club that featuring Easter specialties with multi colures to keep all entertained.
InterContinental and Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars At InterContinental Cairo Citystars, our chefs and restaurant staff will put a ‘spring in their step’ to make sure the day goes with a swing. From noon until 5pm, Al Bustan Pool Bar and The Lounge will feature live music and belly dancers, a special upgraded ‘Sham El Nessim’ buffet with live cooking stations and traditional delicacies, in addition to a children’s buffet. At Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars, the celebrations continue with authentic treats spicing up the sumptuous buffet spread at Windows from 12:30pm until 11pm. And the Pool Garden is the hot spot to aim for when you are bringing the ‘young ones’ to make a special fuss of them for a fun-filled day. Staybridge Suites Cairo Citystars sees plenty of fun for kids on Sham El Nessim. The fun will start after breakfast and include face painting, play dough, and drawing with an Easter theme among other activities. 58 | April 2015
Editorial Features Cairo Marriott Hotel Initiates the “Spirit to Serve” the Community’s Wellfare As part of Marriott International initiatives of the “Spirit to Serve” our community which is an integral part of the company’s culture, the Cairo Marriott Hotel has been lately participating in two imperative events in an attempt to support the Egyptian community in many areas.
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airo Marriott Hotel has been partnering the Downtown Contemporary Arts Festival (D-CAF) for the past three years. D-CAF Arts festival is Egypt’s only International multi-disciplinary contemporary arts festival that takes place over three weeks in March – April each year, at multiple sites in Downtown Cairo. This year the festival is taking place from the 19th of March till the 9th of April. One of the main aims of D-CAF is the revival and reclamation of Downtown Cairo. Over the years, D-CAF has succeeded in re-opening culturally and historically relevant spaces across the center of Cairo giving new life to spaces that otherwise often go unnoticed, such as Downtown’s many intricate passageways and hidden corners, including the Urban Visions’ location in El Borsa and the Kodak passageway. D-CAF includes local, regional, and international music, theatre, dance, and visual arts and film by cutting-edge artists from Egypt, the Arab World and beyond, where it is comprised into six strands; performing arts, music, film, visual arts, urban visions, and special events. Furthermore, Spirit to Serve also supported Egyptian Society of Women’s Imaging and Healthcare (ESWIH) in their program “Amaal”; aimed to raise funds for women who were subject to violence that led to serious injuries and damages physically and psychologically. The event was attended by 700 females from all over Egypt. Zumba trainers were present to cheer the crowd with Zumba and belly dance moves at Aida Ballroom. Breast Imaging Consultant and founder of ESWIH organization, Dr. Nuran Hussein, stated that the objective of this initiative is to raise awareness and unite hands to support those girls with medical and psychological means to help them gain back their confidence to face life challenges. Also, an important aim is raising awareness of women’s health and beauty,
emphasizing on the importance of early breast cancer detection, good nutrition, and women’s wellbeing. The crowd enjoyed the lively energetic Zumba dances performed by Samia Allouba, who managed to uplift the spirit and self-confidence of the girls. As part of the activities, ladies went on stage and narrated their stories and live experiences to the audience in an act of sharing with and enlightening the crowd.
Editorial Features
Hedeya Creates a World of Imagination for Egyptian Children
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ounded in 2007, Hedeya’s main goal was to establish a shop that delivers all essential necessities and child appealing products for children of all age groups; to provide Egyptian mothers’ with all what they need and supply children with an unlimited world of toys that fulfills their boundless expectations.
Despite its importance, the phenomenon of having a store specialized in children’s goods was uncommon in Egypt, which influenced Hedeya to start its business as a shopping catalogue. Later, the business developed and opened new branches across Cairo and eventually built a powerful online platform hedeya.com, in which mothers can easily order what they want from home. The online website is considered to be the first shopping website for children in Egypt and the Middle East. Hedeya brings together a wide selection of local and International brands to offer parents the most comprehensive range of products for babies and children at the most competitive prices. From classic name brands and popular must-haves to specialty and hard-to-find items, the shop provides everything a child would need or wish for. Hedeya provides toys, books, DVDs, clothes, kids furniture, shower toys, strollers, crafts, bags and carriers, stationary, and much more.
With more than thousands of loyal clients, Hedeya’s team are very passionate and selective of the goods they display and also keen that their clients would always find the best brands, highest quality, and reasonable prices. The wonderful cooperative team uploads tons of new products online and on their social media every hour on daily basis, to engage their customers with the up-todate items designed to satisfy different tastes and needs. Furthermore, Hedeya offers a very easy and pleasant shopping experience through their online website, as they give customers the access to a great variety of merchandise. This service saves both time and money. From your comfy couch, you can order anything you want and have it delivered to your door within 2 hours to many areas in greater Cairo, 48 hours to other governorates, and 5-6 working days overseas. It is worth mentioning that Nancy Ali, the founder of Hedeya, was recognized as one of the top 7 Egyptian female entrepreneurs in Egypt on International Women’s Day that took place last month. For women who have newborn, check out the following top 5 bestsellers that are guaranteed to make your life easy. Mima Xari Stroller, Mima Moon High Chair, Philips AVENT Steamer and Blender, Bugaboo Bee3, and Braun Thermoscan.
Health
Healthy Ways To Strip Away Stress
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ometimes modern life becomes very demanding, that we fail to manage our stress. Expenses won’t stop coming, babies won’t stop crying, leisure time is spent on house chores, and career and family responsibilities never stop growing. Surprisingly, you are bigger than those problems! To realize that you can control your life and make it stress free, is a step to stress management. Managing stress is all about taking charge: of your thoughts, schedule, emotions, and the way you deal with problems.
Identify the source of stress Stress management starts with recognizing the sources of pressure in your life. It is not as easy as you may think, because some problems are stuck in your unconsciousness. Even feelings are complicated and very hard to comprehend. Yet, part of having a stressful life is due to procrastination, rather than fulfilling all job demands. So the best way to figure out the causes of your endless anxiety is to keep a daily record of things that stressed you like: what caused this stress? How you felt both physically and emotionally? How you acted upon it? And what did you try to do differently to feel better?
Understand your attitude towards the problem Look carefully at the ways you cope with your problems, by reading your journal. Ask yourself if you solve your problems in a positive or negative attitude? Unfortunately, many people nag a lot about their problems instead of taking thoughtful actions towards solving it. Others reduce stress temporarily by applying some ynhealthy coping strategies like: smoking, drinking too much, overeating, spending hours on social network, consuming pills, oversleeping, 62 | April 2015
Until you adapt a new strategy to regain your healthy lifestyle, here are 10 approaches to nurture and relax yourself during stressful times. Go for a walk Have a warm cup co coffee to tea Indulge yourself in a spa Listen to good music Take a long bath in a tub Hangout with a good friend Spend hours in a good book Watch a comedy movie or series Workout Take your dog for a walk
or avoid dealing with people. Those behaviors would do nothing but harm your health on the long run. It’s time to substitute with healthier approaches that would contribute to your emotional and physical wellbeing. You have a precise problem, fix it.
Manage your stress in a healthy manner If you haven’t reached a permanent result yet, try out these four strategies. But remember that the key to success is to never give up. You might need to experiment the following schemes with different techniques and approaches to reach optimum outcome.
• Avoid the stressor: Certainly, you can limit your interaction with people who stress you out. Say ‘NO’ to tasks beyond your tolerance, whether in your personal or professional life. Have a daily calendar with a list of ‘Must Dos’ and ‘Should Dos’ to identify you priorities. Last but not least, avoid hot-button topics like politics and religion, as they bring nothing but fights.
• Alter the situation: If you can’t prevent a stressful situation, try to adjust it. Express your feelings to a trusted person instead of bottling them up, to avoid uncontrolled resentment and depression. Try to be more assertive and deal with your problems on regular basis to inhibit their reoccurrence. Finally, always stay focused and manage your time fruitfully.
• Adapt the stressor: You can definitely regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude. When things turn bad, always think of alternative ways to enjoy this moment. Also take a wider perspective of the stressful situation, because it may take your side on the long-run term. And remember that you do not need to be perfect.
• Accept the things you can’t change: You can’t prevent stressors such as the death of a loved one, unlimited demands of your children, or financial problems. “What doesn’t kill you makes you strong.” Look at the situations as an opportunity to grow and learn from their mistakes. Share your feelings with beloved ones, and try to forgive. April 2015 | 63
Heal With Yoga • Legs-up-the-Wall is an amazing pose that relieves stress, soothes tired body, and combats insomnia. • Sit on folded blankets or a bolster with knees wide and toes gently touching the ground. Place another folded blanket into your hip creases and lean to sleep. • Sit on a sport mat and extend your legs out to a V-shape. Place a bolster in between your legs and lean on it.
Munch Food Rich in
Calcium in yogurt B1 and B2 vitamins in fortified breads and cereals Potassium in bananas Iron in spinach Omega 3 in salmon
Bulletins/Health
Your Ultimate Period Survival Guide
Rejuvenate Your Skin
Pay extra-special attention to your skin before, during, and after your period. • Orange and lemon juice can nourish your skin • Drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated • Tea tree oil can fix any spots that pop up • Essential oils like jojoba, lavender, or rose in your bath can unwind your senses • Face wash, toner, and face moisturizer skin routine is a must before you sleep
DID YOU KNOW That it is ok to have a piece of dark chocolate every day during your period to soothe cravings? 64 | April 2015
April 2015 | 65
Q&A
LADYBIRD’S You Ask, Experts Answer! 1
Dr. Frederick Coville
Plastic Surgery
I have stretch marks on my buttock, stomach, and thighs. Is there anything to do to make them disappear? Doctor’s Answer:
Unfortunately, there are no great options for you. However, the best success I have had is by using the dermaroller or the dermapen. These micro needling techniques work well especially when combined with good medical skin preparation. I like preparing with tretinoin and then doing the needling several times for the best results.
3
Dr. Melissa Gowans Pediatrics
Are there home remedies to cure two white pimples inside my lower eyelid? Doctor’s Answer:
Warm compresses often help, but if there is swelling it’s best to get checked. Keep your hands off the area , because rubbing it will only complicate the problem. See your doctor to make sure that there isn’t a bacterial infection that needs treatment.
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2
Dr. Michael Ein
Infectious Disease
How can I treat toenail fungus infection? Doctor’s Answer:
Usually onychomycosis persists life long unless treated with an effective anti-fungal agent such as terbinafine or itraconazole, which have replaced the more toxic griseofulvin. You need a doctor’s prescription for the oral meds, laser treatments are now being offered.
4
Dr. Phil Zapanta
ENT and Head and Neck Surgery
How can I get rid of stuffy and runny nose without taking medicine? Doctor’s Answer:
You can try using saline nasal spray or a saline irrigation. These are found at most pharmacies and are over the counter. They are basically salt solutions in different preparations. For some patients this helps their nasal congestion typically from nasal allergies or cold.
5
Dr. Jospeh Mele Plastic Surgery
I want to get rid of cellulite before summer time. What can I do? Doctor’s Answer:
Cellulite is a surface irregularity in the skin caused by attachments between the back of the skin and the deeper muscle fascia. These attachments pull the skin. Like buttons on a throw pillow. Sometimes cellulite is solitary, and sometimes a larger area is involved. Cellulite can occur with or without weight gain. All current surface treatments are temporary. Surgery may help in selected cases.
7
Dr. Keegan Duchicela Family Medicine
6
Dr. Jennifer Haley Dermatology
I am 24-years-old and I have thin, fragile grey hair. What can I do to make my hair stronger? Doctor’s Answer:
There are entire books written on hair loss but a few thoughts without seeing you: take biotin if you are iron deficient with 500mg vitamin C 3-5 times a week. Also, have your thyroid and ANA tests checked. A study showed that a handful of almonds a day can delay grey hair.
8
Sharon Haver Editor-in-chief of FocusOnStyle.com
I have a very oily skin and oil control lotions seem fairly ineffective. Is medication my only solution?
Should I buy luxurious labels and bags to look super successful in my business?
Doctor’s Answer:
Be honest to yourself and represent yourself in the same quality way that you want to be perceived. At the end of the day, you don’t want to try to manipulate people with your dress or trappings.
Sometimes, when we have oily skin, our first indication is to wash it with cleanser more frequently. But that often serves to dry out the skin more frequently, which causes your skin to become oilier than before. It becomes hard to break cycle. If you think you’re getting acne from the excessive oil, it might be good to at least talk with your doc about options - it doesn’t mean you have to use them.
Expert’s Answer:
April 2015 | 67
Fitness
DEFEND YOURSELF
6 Places in Cairo to Learn Martial Arts
I
t’s a dangerous world, ladies, especially in this day and age. And while carrying a Taser or pepper-spray in your handbag might make you feel safer and even save you from harm, learning how to take on an attacker and defending yourself through martial arts is a definite win over fumbling in your bag for a weapon. Learning martial arts has multiple benefits - your confidence will boost to immeasurable heights, you’ll stay in the best of shape, and moreover, you’ll be nimble, calm, and alert; elements that are inspired by the martial arts and essential for self-defense. Ladybird took a look around town for the best places to learn, and found these awesome places:
1. Champion Martial Arts Academy
Located in Balance Gym in Heliopolis, this specialized academy for martial arts gives you high-level professional coaches to teach you all the right skills. They introduce a variety of different martial arts sports including Karate for beginners (children and adults alike), karate sessions for amateur players who’d like to upgrade their levels to become professionals, MMA, boxing, Ju-Jitsu, Krav Maga (general self defense), Karateka, as well as general fitness and gymnastics.
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2. Knockout, at Fibers
A martial arts, boxing, and kickboxing school in Maadi, they’ve got some of the best instructors in the business to ensure that our members are getting the best 'schooling' when it comes to learning the latest in selfdefense techniques. With their proper instruction, you can take off excess weight and enjoy yourself while learning effective self-defense. Along with looking and feeling better, you will also gain self-confidence.
3. Nün Center
This heart-soothing center in Zamalek offers a number of classes including some very unique martial arts - Budokon yoga, a dynamic blend of contemporary yoga asana influenced by ancient martial arts, Chi kung, based on 5 animals postures: Dragon, tiger, leopard, snake, and crane, this ancient exercise helps to improve the internal and external health of the practitioner. And of course, self defense for confidence and preparedness.
5. Tapout Fighting and Fitness Club
4. Systema Egypt: The Russian Style of Martial Arts in Egypt
With trainings offered all around Cairo, you can learn Systema, the Russian form of Martial Arts. All tactics taught at Systema are based on instinctive reactions, individual strengths, and characteristics, specifically designed for fast learning. They work by the philosophy of three components– Combat Skill, Strong Spirit, and Healthy Body. It is a complete set of concepts and training components that enhance one’s life in general, offering special trainings for kids, teens, adults, and of course, ladies.
This is an awesome fighting and fitness club in Heliopolis, which provides killer MMA workouts, boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu jitsu, fitness workouts, insanity workouts, ladies self-defense private classes, and kid’s programs. Contact them for more information about their 3-month, 6-month, and annual membership packages, in addition to their private sessions packages.
6. The Dragon’s Den Dojo
Their name says it all… The Dragon’s Den Dojo in Dokki offers all levels of training Classes For Kickboxing, Mixed-Martial Arts, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for both genders. Run and mentored by Egyptian heavyweight kickboxing champion Amr Al Alfy, you can be ensured that you’ll learn, grow strong, and become a part of a community. They also have a super-active Facebook page.
Fitness
Toning The Love Muscles
H
BY: NATASCIA PAOLUCCI
istorically, Kegel exercises were named after Arnold Kegel, a gynecologist, who recommended them back in the 1940s to help women with urinary incontinence –a loss in bladder control – caused prior childbirth. Indeed, they help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles- pubococcygeus (PC) muscles more precisely. Recently, Kegel exercises’ benefits have been widely recognized beyond childbirth recovery, as they also suit men and women alike.
Kegel exercises are prescribed for:
• Stress incontinence: Urinary leakage associated with an event, such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, jogging, and lifting. • Urge incontinence: Urinary leakage that is spontaneous, where the patient may not have enough time to reach the toilet. • Pelvic floor weakness: It is usually due to childbirth, which can stretch and weaken pelvic floor muscles as well as sag pelvic organs. • Urinary sphincter weakness: May result from surgery treatment for treating prostate cancer, an overactive bladder, or a bladder that doesn't contract. • Rectal circulation: May keep hemorrhoids in line. • Vaginal circulation: May speed healing after an episiotomy or tear during childbirth.
Kegel exercises can also be beneficial for your sex life:
• Enhance sensations: Basically, it makes your vagina tighter, so both your partner and yourself will feel more intense sensations during sex. • Easier orgasm: Some of the muscles you train are involved in orgasms. Toning them will make the contractions more intense. • N.B: There are many additional and indirect benefits associated with orgasms, including stress relief and immune system boost.
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Interestingly, these same exercises are equally beneficial to men. Indeed, they are not immune to urinary leakage; however, Kegel exercises could improve erections and render their orgasms more intense as well! If you have not adopted the Kegel exercises yet, you should start now! The routine is extremely simple… you have no excuse. In addition, it requires no specific equipment. You can do it once you wake up or before you go to bed, while you sit at your desk or during intercourse! 1. Preferably, lay down, so as to limit the effect of gravity on your pelvic muscles. 2. Put a hand on your tummy and make sure that you do not contract your abs. Similarly, make sure that you do not contract your buttocks or leg muscles. You should isolate the pelvic muscles; they are the ones that you would use to stop urinating or stop passing gas. 3. Squeeze the muscles for 3 seconds. The feeling should be like a “close and lift” of your vagina and anus. 4. Relax for 3 seconds. 5. Repeat 10 to 15 times, ideally 2 to 3 times daily. 6. Increase the squeezing time by one second every week to keep the exercise challenging (until you reach 10 second, maximum)
Tips:
Do not hold your breath while squeezing (it only raises your blood pressure) Do not squeeze while urinating (it could hurt your bladder) Now, why not you practice them with your partner? It is a nice alternative to tennis doubles and it burns 144 Kcal every 30 minutes!
Fulfill as many repetitions as you can within 20 seconds, resting 10 seconds between each workout and 30 seconds at the end of the circuit. Complete three circuits and increase 15 seconds of each interval. Don’t forget to perform each exercise with both sides.
Switch Kick Punch
Stand with the left foot in front of your right, elbows bent and knees slightly bent. Kick your right foot while punching your left fist towards your right foot. Return to the initial position.
DID YOU KNOW
That regular exercising can boost brainpower, pump up your heart, ward off some diseases, build relationships, lengthen attention span, improve memory, and prompts growth of new never cells and blood vessels?
Scissor Stance Jacks
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hinge forward, lower your torso, and slightly bend your knees. Place your right hand on your left foot, and then jump up while bringing both hands on your chest and crossing your right foot in front of the left foot.
Bulletins/Fitness
THE HOT-BODY WORKOUT
Punching Abs
Sit on a sport mat with legs extended and knees slightly bent. Lean your back slightly and place both fists on your chest. Punch your right fist forward at shoulder height, and then quickly return to the initial position.
Glute Bridge Marching
Lie face up with both knees bent and hips upward forming a straight line from shoulders to knees. Lift your right knee toward your chest, hold for a couple of seconds, and then return to the initial position.
April 2015 | 71
Nutrition
10
Signs of Nutritional Deficiencies in Children
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As parents, we do everything we can to provide a good, healthy environment for our kids. But let’s face it – children are fussy eaters. And most of you that are parents probably wonder how it is that your kids can survive on things like fries or chocolate, which are often all they ever seem to eat! The problem with their fussy habits is that they miss out on particular nutrients that are essential for their growth, and even with our best efforts, our children can suffer from nutritional deficiencies. It is fundamental that you watch out for these deficiencies, and sneak the right foods into your child’s diet. Yes, it’s difficult, but we trust your creative abilities to disguise food or perk it up in a way that allows your child to enjoy both its taste and essential nutritional benefits. As a whole, you should focus on a whole-food approach rich in animal proteins, fruits and vegetables, and steer away from anything processed, fast, or artificial. Here’s what you should be looking for:
1. Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety can be brought on by nutritional deficiencies, usually prompted by the brain. Protein contains amino acids, which the brain uses to create neurotransmitters such as Serotonin and Endorphins. A proper balance of these neurotransmitters helps to keep a person feeling happy and calm instead of depressed and anxious. A diet with a good amount of complete protein can correct this nutritional imbalance. Most protein from plants contains an incomplete number of amino acids. Protein from animal foods are more likely to contain all amino acids and they are more easily absorbed by the body, so do try to incorporate whole meats, animal fats, and broth using bones. Gelatin, found naturally in animal bones, is a great source of protein. 72 | April 2015
2. Hyperactivity Hyperactivity is related to the brain’s ability to process information and remain calm at the same time. It has been found that children with hyperactivity tend to have poor intestinal bacterial flora and digestion, making it hard for their body to absorb different essential nutrients. It is usually recommended by doctors to remove processed food, along with food dyes, from your child’s diet to help combat hyperactivity (which make proper digestion difficult) and adding some good digestive natural treatments, including foods rich in fibers (whole grains, fruit, vegetables, and healthy fats) and probiotics, such as yogurt, which is full of gut-healthy bacteria such as acidophilus.
3. Delayed Speech
Delayed speech can be related to a deficiency in B12. Children shouldn’t be supplemented with B12 unless first tested for a deficiency, but an increase of natural foods of B12 is a good natural alternative. Foods high in B12 are organ meats (such as liver and kidney), beef, chicken, fish and shellfish, dairy products, and eggs. Unfortunately, there are no major plant/grain sources of B12, so stick with the animal proteins in this case.
4. Discoloration and Dry Skin and Hair
Discolored, dry skin and ash-dry hair can be related to a deficiency in fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A, D, E, and K2. Adding some high quality fat-soluble vitamins to your child’s diet can make their hair become shiny, and skin became soft and mono-colored rather than ashen or blotchy. Cod liver oil is the greatest and most miraculous source of these vitamins, and while it tastes absolutely awful in its loose state, they’ve come up with a pill-version that solves that problem – and while it is an off-the-counter nutritional supplement that is readily available, do check with your doctor first, just in case your child is allergic to seafood.
5. Crowding of Teeth
The relationship between crowded teeth and nutritional deficiencies is well recorded. A study proved that twins who ate different foods developed different dental spacing depending on the foods they ate. Those who ate modern processed foods or whose mothers ate poorly during pregnancy, had children who developed poor dental structure and spacing. Those who ate a traditional diet full of rich fats, complete animal proteins, and properly prepared carbs across the board developed equal spacing of teeth and even had enough room for wisdom teeth.
6. Cavities
Cavities are often thought to be formed as a result of too much sugar or candy in the diet. Excessive sugar is generally quite bad, but it’s not so much about the sugar as much as it is about what your child is NOT eating. It has been found that cavities are mostly likely to be the result of a deficiency in proper minerals, and also in fat-soluble vitamins needed to absorb and assimilate those minerals. Basically, extensive research has proven that the less deficient your child is, the less likely they’ll suffer from cavities.
7. Frequent Colds and Flus
Kids and adults get sick all the time alike, but nutritional diet changes will have you notice changes in health as well – immunity will be stronger and children can play around other sick children and not necessarily get sick themselves. If your child is getting sick frequently, understand that good diet is always going to be the best prevention for sickness. Focus on eating a real food diet with an emphasis on properly prepared grains, whole-foods, probiotics, and essential oils. Again, cod liver oil is highly nutritional and immunity building, and will kill the onset of colds and flus. In addition, doctors encourage that you to move away from the germ-a-phobia lifestyle and embrace dirt a bit.
8. Cranky Emotions
or
Sporadic
Fats (especially Omega 3s found in flax seeds, salmon, sardines, herring, anchovies, and mackerel) are vital for good mood stabilization. Good saturated fats from butter and coconut oil help keep and protect the Omega 3s in our brain. A child’s hormones need to be balanced as well. Did you know that carrots help absorb any extra estrogen floating around in the body? A high amount of estrogen in the body can make us all feel irritable and moody,
including your child. Have them eat a carrot a day, with the dual benefit of beta-carotene that is essential for their eye health as well.
9. Poor Bone Structure
Doctors found that the development of the palate (teeth crowding) as well as the development of the bones were greatly improved with a diet high in good fats (including rich saturated fats from animal products), whole proteins from seafood/ animal meat, and properly prepared grains. Vegetables and fruits are also included in these diets but fats and animal foods are especially held sacred for children that are still under development, as their bone structure is still ‘under construction’ and prone to oddly bending shapes (cranial ‘flat-head’ syndrome, and also ‘rickets’, where the lower legs and shins bend at an angle). Those who avoid processed food (including seed and vegetable oils, canned, and packaged food) are immune to this problem, and their bones develop strong and sturdy.
10. Obesity
You wouldn’t think that obesity is related to malnutrition, but it is exactly why they are obese. When we eat foods that aren’t nutrient dense, our bodies are hungry. They become starved for good nutrition and that’s why you won’t feel satisfied when eating highly processed foods and/or foods devoid of nutrients. Children are no different. Their bodies are meant to feel satisfied with a balance of all foods, including seafood, animal products, milk, cheese, butter, coconut oil, fruits, vegetables, and properly prepared grains. When they sway from this sort of diet and start to eat more processed and fast food, or restrict any macronutrient like fat, carbohydrates, or protein, that is where we start to become malnourished.
April 2015 | 73
Nutrition
Why Eat This? • Strawberries are rich with vitamins C and K and considered to be excellent source of manganese, folic acid, potassium, and fiber. • Strawberries have been used throughout history in many medical conditions, including digestive ailments, immunity booster, teeth whitening, and skin irritations. • Fibers and fructose in strawberries can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion. • Antioxidants in strawberries can help to prevent cataracts, which usually develops into blindness in older age. Vitamin C can
Strawberries
Super Food...
Onions
• Onions were historically proven to improve immunity, reduce inflammation, and heal infections. Roman Emperor Nero used onions as a cure for colds. • Onions contain vitamins A, B6, C, and E, in addition to minerals including potassium, iron, sodium, and dietary fiber. • When eaten raw, onions can support the body with a variety of organic sulphur compounds that provide endless health benefits. Raw onions also encourage the production of good cholesterol (HDL), keeping your heart healthy. • Some Arab countries 74 | April 2015
strengthen the eye’s cornea and retina. • Ellagic acid in strawberries can suppress cancer cell growth and neutralize the possible negative effects that they can have on our cells. • Vitamin C is a collagen booster, which improves skin elasticity and resilience. Consuming strawberries on daily basis can help you look younger and delay wrinkles. • Potassium is essential for regulating blood pressure as it acts as a buffer against the negative effects of sodium.
5 Word Answer
What can I eat to feed my skin, hair, and nails? Sweet potatoes, eggs, liver, carrots, and nuts.
mix onions with salt and pepper, and apply to scalp as a remedy for hair loss. • Allyl propyl disulphide present in onions has a similar effect of insulin in balancing blood sugar levels. It is not an alternative for insulin, but a good therapy for those who suffer from hypoglycaemia. • Quercetin, a powerful compound in onions, is known to play a significant role in preventing and reducing cancer. • If beaten by a honeybee, try rubbing skin with onion juice as it can relief from the pain and burning sensation on the spot.
Do you suffer from Alzheimer disease?
Fix with Food
You can fight or prevent Alzheimer risks with foods healthy for your brain. Walnuts are small in size but not to be taken for granted. Rich in omega 3 fatty acids and nutrients, walnuts can nourish your brain and improve memory and motor coordination. Salmon, sardines, mackerel and, white fish are well-known options rich in omega 3. Antioxidants are also essential for brain health. Berries contain polyphenols, a type of antioxidant, which stops inflammation and allows brain cells to work better. Strawberries and cranberries are other alternatives. In addition, women who eat more leafy greens can do better than women who consume less veggies on memory and verbal tests.
Fruits: Lemons, grapefruit, bananas, apples, and cantaloupe. Vegetables: Sweet corn, yellow peppers, and yellow beets.
ORANGE Cancer Prevention
Fruits: Oranges, apricots, peaches, and mangoes. Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash.
Bulletins/Nutrition
YELLOW Beauty and Skin
DID YOU KNOW That bananas can sooth heartburns as it have natural antacid effect in the body?
PURPLE Memory Health
Fruits: Blackberries, blueberries, purple grapes, and raisins. Vegetables: Eggplant, purples cabbage, and purple kohlrabi.
RED Heart Health
Fruits: Red apples, cherries, pomegranates, red grapes, and cranberries. Vegetables: Red peppers, red onions, tomatoes, and beets.
Fact
Dark green vegetables include more vitamin C than light green vegetables.
GREEN Detoxification
Fruits: Avocados, kiwifruit, green grapes, and limes. Vegetables: Lettuce, broccoli, peas, zucchini, and okra. April 2015 | 75
Cooking
Recipes Around
L
The World BY: HEBA EZZ
ebanese food is one of the freshest, creative, and most delicious cuisine in the world. And with the unceasing rise of Lebanese restaurants in Egypt, this wonderful culinary experience and tasty dishes are fascinating more and more Egyptians. The key to relish your dishes is to add generous amounts of olive oil, lemons, and garlic. This weekend, opt for one of the following recipes and invite your friends over, because sharing is caring!
Roast Red Pepper Hummus Yield: 4 servings Total Time: 45 minutes INGREDENTS: • • • • • • • • • • •
DIRECTIONS:
• Preheat 450 F. oven, place peppers on backing sheet and roast them for 30 minutes, stirring 1 can of 12oz chickpeas, rinsed them every 10 minutes. Place 2 medium red bell peppers them in a sealed bowl to cool. 1 tbsp. garlic, minced • Combine the roast peppers, ½ cup tahini (sesame seed paste) chickpeas and garlic in a food ½ cup fresh lemon juice processor and puree until smooth. 1 tbsp. paprika Add the tahini, lemon, paprika, 1 tsp. cumin cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper; ½ tsp. cayenne pepper (optional) puree another minute until the 3 tbsp. virgin olive oil mixture is very smooth. ¼ cup fresh parsley, minced • Serve with pita bread. Salt to taste
Lahm Bahjeen Yield: 24 servings Total Time: 40 minutes INGREDIENTS: Dough • 4 cups of all-purpose flour • 1 ½ cups of warm water • 1 cup of warm milk • 1 tsp. white sugar • ½ tsp. salt • 2 tsp. yeast • ½ cup of virgin olive oil Filling • 500 g of ground beef/lamb • 1 large onion, finely minced • 1 tomato, chopped • 1 tbsp. parsley, chopped • ½ tsp. red pepper flakes • Salt and pepper to taste 76 | April 2015
DIRECTIONS: • In a bowl mix warm milk with sugar and yeast and set aside for 5 minutes. Add flour, salt, water, and oil and knead to form a dough. Cover for an hour in a warm place. • Divide the dough into 24 small pieces the size of a plum and roll in a ball. • In a bowl mix all the filling ingredients together. Put one tablespoon of this mixture in the center of the dough. • Bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Serve with a bowl of yogurt mixed with cucumbers and fresh mint for dipping.
Love & Relationships
“
“
Prince Charming is
Waiting at the Altar
10 Reasons Why Today’s Modern Egyptian Women Are Delaying the Prospects of Marriage BY: LAUREN K. CLARK
78 | April 2015
O
Oh the pressure of marriage! After all, so many young Egyptian women are caught up in the common stigma of going to University to pursue their Mrs., rather than their B.A. At least that is what the modern era of college/university were traditionally perceived as doing. Now, of course, we cannot forget that in certain parts of Egypt and the world as well, early and forced marriages against young women and girls still exist. Yet, with today’s caliber of women, it is no secret that single ladies are remaining single for a reason! And with the ongoing progression of women’s rights, professional, and economic opportunities, more and more women are delaying marriage for their own personal journey!
So, “yes, I’ll marry you”
Well, not exactly. As more and more women delay marriage, we are seeing a growing trend of women postponing marriage, and putting a hold on any marriage proposals. “Why so?” You may think. Well, let’s take a time travel back into HER story! On a regular pastime, it had been custom for women in certain classes in Egypt to get married for security, where young girls could be married off as early as 14 (if not earlier). Often times, such was done to ensure that her family was also secured. This would also entail interests of her future husband, who wanted to make sure that his legacy and family name was carried on and also have an opportunity to shape the poor girl according to his interests. Girls, who were married this young, were not going to run for presidency anytime soon. So, you are safe to bet that having someone to take care of them, played a role in getting married-whether she had a say in the matter, or not. In a nutshell, she was going from one facet of girlhood, to another. Ahh! Can we say fear anyone? On many occasions, fear of the old maid ensured that a woman hurriedly find herself a husband-AND FAST! Whether snagging a man in college, or any other public arena, the whole adage of “snagging a man, while you can” played a vivid role in the panic and competition that many women felt (or were brainwashed to feel) at an early age. The stigma of the single lady was not seen as empowering, successful, and independent lady. It was not viewed as empowering as it is now! So, with our marriage HER story wrapped up, here are the top 10 reasons why women are letting the groom wait at the alter! 1. Mo’ money, mo’ money, mo’ money! Now that a girl can make her own money, she is not as keen to settle down for the sake of security. As a matter of fact, she would rather pursue her masters and doctorate degree as well as explore the world and shower herself with latest fashion trends, instead of spending money on pampers and households! 2. Travel. It really is good for the soul! And there is FREEDOM and FUN in being single while doing it! You don’t have to go through endless debates with your partner on where to go.
3. Loving Oneself. How can any woman have a successful marriage if she is not completely whole? Many women are working on themselves, in order to be a whole person for the right man. 4. 1 Man=Many Problems. Marriage can mean dealing with pure hell if you rush in with the wrong one! Some women simply want to take their time, and truly meet MR. RIGHT, rather than MR. RIGHT NOW! 5. Dating Many Prince Charmings. Some women are simply enjoying the plethora of men than can have at their disposal. Healthy dating allows a woman to understand exactly what she wants, or doesn’t want in a partner. Dating = getting information! 6. “If you Like it then you shoulda’ put a ring on it” as Beyonce would say! Some ladies just don’t have time for a man who will take them for a ride, without deeper commitment. 7. Too Young. Enjoying your youth is a blessing! Spend it doing all the things you have ever wanted to do! Remember that you might not have such prospect after marriage. 8. An Educated Woman. Getting that degree takes lots of work! A degree, plus a husband involves many distractions! One word… wait! And don’t even aim for a mere bachelor degree. Combat the societal stereotypes and take as many degrees and courses as possible, because life keeps on innovating and changing every day… and so should you. 9. Just Because You Can. Doesn’t it feel good that you are not so desperate and hungry for a man. Women, who don’t need a man, are the ones who actually get them! 10.Spiritual, Emotional, Physical Fulfillment. Making sure that one is spiritually and physically healthy ensures that one is healthy in all arenas of her being is a top priority for many women! It’s an utter attraction! So, with our list of the top 10 reasons why modern Egyptian women wait later for marriage, it’s safe to say that women who want a man, but don’t need him are sure to have successful marriages in the future! But just not now! April 2015 | 79
Mother & Child To All the New Moms and Moms-to-Be Out There…
A
As a pregnant woman, you may have asked people around you about the best things to eat, what positions to sleep in or how to exercise for instance. But asking how to take care of your baby when it’s born is a whole new ballgame! Learning to care for a new baby is a natural skill that you will eventually develop. You will build a wonderful relationship with your baby learn how to care for him or her on your own. Observing your baby’s expressions is divine. And newborns smell is incredible!
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Calm Down, and Take A Deep Breath
While you may not feel like you know how to do this at first, you may have several questions during your pregnancy such as; Will I deliver naturally? Will I breastfeed? Will the baby sleep in the family bed or his or her own bed? How do I raise this baby? You will normally experience several things including joyful moments, struggles and temporary depression with your newborn. It is all a part of the process.
Here are some points for new moms to help them handle their babies: • Cool down, and try not to stress. In time, everything will be perfect, and you will definitely get gratification from being a new mom. If you stay calm, the baby will be calm. If you’re constantly stressed out, your baby will feel this. • If you plan on going somewhere with your baby, keep in mind that you need to have an emergency diaper, wipes, extra cloths, towel, pacifier, and a bottle of milk or formula. • You can also ask for help from your family and friends. If they offer to help, accept their offer and assign them with things to do to save you some time and energy. You may delegate certain tasks to them, whether it’s to entertain your baby or watch your baby or help put him or her sleep. • Don’t put too much effort into cooking, and keep your meals as simple as you can, and ask your family to assist you. • Try to build a special bond with your baby by holding him/her closely, or singing some beautiful songs to make them feel better. • One of the biggest issues you will face as a new mum is lack of sleep. Try to sleep while your baby sleeps to survive, and take naps everyday while someone is there to make your life easier. • It’s normal to feel a bit concerned when you come to show your newborn to people. Take your time, make sure you are comfortable, and don’t regret pissing off some people.
• If you can’t breastfeed, use baby formula. • When are given unwanted advice, ignore it. It’s your baby, not theirs. You know your baby’s needs better than anyone else, and it is up to you to decide what works the best and do it. • Ask your partner to bring you food, or let him take some shifts for you. Don’t worry, your baby will survive. • Carve out some time for yourself between feeding, changing diapers, and trying to get your baby down to sleep. Take a bath for example, and a deep breath. • Make some time for your husband and go for a movie or somewhere together. You both need this, because he will for sure feel that the baby is grabbing all your attention. • Read lots of books and research on child's education. Note that every mom has her own way in raising her baby. • When it comes to putting your baby to sleep, be patient and try different methods. If he or she is crying while holding him, put them on your shoulder, try the right and then the left one; if your baby cries when you place him in bed, use a swing. Learn your baby’s needs. • Talk to your doctor if your baby isn’t feeling good, or if you have any questions considering your baby’s health. • Figure out what makes your child smile and laugh and repeat it, such as playing certain games or just singing. • Newborns sleep for most of the day, but feeding baby is a one-hour process and needs to be done 12-8 times a day. Be patient.
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Learning to care for a new baby is a natural skill that you will eventually develop.
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You have been given a precious gift. The love between mother and child is the most gorgeous feeling in the world; you have to set up a rapport with your baby.
April 2015 | 81
Features
T
hey say that if you read books, then you get to live a thousand other lives, and travel to places beyond imagination without physically going anywhere. What better escape is there than that? Ladybird has selected 6 bestselling pieces of fiction that are bound to entrance you and take you away from life as we know it, into the world of a writer’s imagination!
6 Bestselling Novels 1. The 40 Rules of Love: A Novel of Rumi By Elif Shafak
This novel is an incredible journey between past and present, with questions of love and spirituality arising. We also know that anything featuring Rumi is bound to have you escape reality altogether. Indulge in this beautiful story that unfolds two tantalizing parallel narratives—one contemporary and the other set in the thirteenth century, when Rumi encountered his spiritual mentor, the whirling dervish known as Shams of Tabriz—that together incarnate the poet's timeless message of love. Presently, Ella Rubenstein is 40 years old and unhappily married when she takes a job as a reader for a literary agent. Her first assignment is to read and report on ‘Sweet Blasphemy’, a novel written by a man named Aziz Zahara. Ella is mesmerized by his tale of Shams’s search for Rumi and the dervish's role in transforming the successful but unhappy cleric into a committed mystic, passionate poet, and advocate of love. She is also taken with Shams's lessons, or rules, which offer insight into an ancient philosophy based on the unity of all people and religions, and the presence of love in each and every one of us. She realizes that Rumi's story mirrors her own and that Zahara—like Shams—has come to set her free. There is a great deal of beauty in this piece of writing, and it’s no wonder it’s a bestseller. 82 | April 2015
2. Rise By Anna Carey
Futuristic, revolutionary, and absolutely brilliant, this novel transports a reader to a different time and place altogether. Eve, the protagonist, must choose who to leave behind, who to save, and who to fight in her final stand against the New America. When Eve lost her soul mate, Caleb, she felt like her world ended – nothing mattered and going on was getting harder and harder by the day. Now, trapped in the palace, as a reluctant bride and unhappy princess, Eve realizes that her entire life is a giant lie. The only thing that keeps her going is Caleb's sweet memory—and the revolution he started, and that she must continue. Eve plots to destroy the
New America, beginning with the capital, the City of Sand. Will she be able to bring about a new, free world when she's called upon to perform the ultimate act of rebellion—killing her father, the King? Find out. You’ll be lucky if you are able to put this one down before you finish it.
That Will Help You Escape Reality
4. Fifty Shades of Grey By E L James
3. Gone Girl By Gillian Flynn
Now a motion picture, this #1 New York Times Bestseller boggles the mind and keeps you guessing and guessing on the edge of your seat until the very end. Escape reality with this awesome novel and try to work out the truth - and remember that nothing is ever as it seems! The story begins on a warm summer morning in North Carthage, Missouri, and it is Nick and Amy Dunne’s fifth wedding anniversary. Presents are being wrapped and reservations are being made when Nick’s clever and beautiful wife suddenly disappears. Evidence of violence is in the living room of their house, and police immediately think Nick is a suspect. Husbandof-the-Year Nick has violent daydreams about changing the shape of his wife’s head, and passages from Amy's diary reveal daunting and even terrifying realities about Nick that put anyone dangerously on edge. Under mounting pressure from the police and the media— as well as Amy’s fiercely doting parents—the town golden-boy parades an endless series of lies, deceits, and inappropriate behavior. Nick is oddly evasive, and he’s definitely bitter—but is he really a killer? What’s going
on? Find out!
There’s lots of controversy around this book, as you’ve probably already heard. But one thing is for sure - it will definitely help you escape from reality! Possibly because a lot of it may be arguably unrealistic, and there are divided opinions about it’s content. But with over a hundred million copies sold worldwide, it definitely might be something to consider reading to escape and even (who knows!) to get a few kinky ideas. The story begins when literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey. She encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms. Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires. >> April 2015 | 83
5. Divergent By Veronica Roth
Thrilling and thought provoking, there’s more to this novel than just a lot of action. Join Beatrice and Tobias, an unlikely pair in a gripping story of a dystopian world transformed by the courage, self-sacrifice, and love of these two protagonists. Fans of the Divergent movie will find the book packed with just as much emotional depth and electrifying action as the film, all told in beautiful, rich language. In a nutshell, the gist of the story is that one’s choice can transform your whole world. Beatrice Prior's society is divided into five factions—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). Beatrice must choose between staying with her Abnegation family and transferring factions. Her choice will shock her community and herself. But the newly christened ‘Tris’ as she calls herself also has a secret, one she's determined to keep hidden, because in this world, what makes you different makes you dangerous.
6. The Girl on the Train By Paula Hawkins
A debut psychological thriller that will totally make you forget the world around you, and forever change the way you look at other people's lives, once you’re done. Meet Rachel, the protagonist. She takes the same commuter train every morning. Simple. Comfortable. Secure. Monotonous. Every day she rattles down the same track, flashes past a stretch of cozy suburban homes, and stops at the signal that allows her to daily watch the same couple breakfasting on their deck. She’s even started to feel like she knows them. “Jess and Jason,” she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. Not unlike the life she recently lost. And then, she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough, and she cannot un-see what she witnessed. Now everything’s changed. Unable to keep it to herself, Rachel offers what she knows to the police, and becomes inextricably entwined in what happens next, as well as in the lives of everyone involved. Has she done more harm than good? That’s what you’ll have to find out.
*All books are available from Cairo’s major bookstores
84 | April 2015
Features
Moon
Side Of The x
By: Noha Maher
They said it’s a globe painted with light, Held in the void of a brightless night, A radiant medallion placed up high, Within a pin pricked sparkled sky, Showing the way in land and sea, It’s what beauty once hoped to be, Starts as a chip of a silver shine, Growing into a whole below which lovers dine, And part with a promise that they should meet, With hope that under it they’ll share a seat, Immersed in its graceful tender glow, Detached by a mist of fire and snow, A perfect balance of the mad and sane, But as everything else it’s wax and wane, For all this light will fade away soon, Have you ever seen the other side of the moon, Yes this charm has two sides, A foul view like everyone hides, It doesn’t face you but it’s thick and stark, You can get lost in it for it’s so dark, So what should one do stay near or go away, Resolving this is to both sides weigh, If shadow drops then go on and erase, But if brightness wins hence you should embrace, A flawless existence in life is untrue, And remember that there’re two sides in you too.
April 2015 | 85
86 | April 2015
April 2015 | 87
The Best, The Top & the must do
Your Getaway Treat Yourself with Royalty at Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh is the first hotel in Egypt that has attained the prestigious Label of “Jeunes Restaurateurs d’ Europe ‘’, a distinguished label that is usually granted to very selective hotels that score high standards on gourmet level. Baron’s 16 restaurants and bars were inspected and evaluated by Michelin gastronomy chef; in terms of the quality of food with ultimate presentation and taste. Their restaurants combine culinary professionalism and passion of gastronomy, creating a unique fine dining experience. It is featured as a 6 stars leading hotel in North African region introducing a new concept of “Luxury in Style” with Mediterranean architecture, inspired by the most stunning Arabian Palaces praised for its unrivalled conception of luxury. The Palace accommodation features spacious layouts with various culinary offering from around the globe.
Must try Nefertari’s Natural Body Care Proudly made in Egypt, Nefertari offers a variety of natural homemade beauty and body care products for women and men. Known for its quality and integrity, the brand offers aromatic essential oils such as lavender, sweet almond, coconut, and vanilla as well as body scrubs, bath salts, massaging tools, and natural soaps. Also available at Nefertari are a wide-range of towels, robes, and slippers made from organic Egyptian cotton. It is worth mentioning that each product has a small booklet with descriptions.
Did You Know? There are more life forms living on your skin than there are people on the planet!
Not to be missed! SANTAL ROYAL Guerlain: Memories and dreams, emotions and exoticism This is the promise offered and the aura evoked by this fragrance devoted to sandalwood. Santal Royal is a fragrance with oriental, woody, and spicy notes. Neroli, a sunshine flower that radiates with joyful cheer, and cinnamon, exuding warm and vibrant notes that are a blend of wood and spices, appear at the top. They are subsequently accompanied by an essence of roses, the queen of flowers whose precious character has the power to enchant and beautifully enhance sandalwood, and a subtle fruity accord. Other amber, leather, and oud accords accentuate the essence’s elegant vibrations. Yet, beyond sandalwood’s sacred dimension, an innovative hint of musk with the Guerlain signature is added, allowing divine vapors and a modern unisex fragrance to live side by side. In addition to its elegant light and woody facets, it has a certain freshness that is deep yet creamy. 88 | April 2015
Reviews
album
“Umm El Donya’ by Qusai After Qusai’s spectacular appearance in the famous MBC show Arab’s Got Talent, he successfully released the incredible Album ‘Umm El Donya’. Qusai is one of the first Arabic hip-hop artists and the first Saudi Arabian rapper. Along the way, he collaborated with many artists and performers from across the world, on both the underground and professional levels. Qusai is a pioneer in finding the perfect blend between Arabic music and hip-hop. He went from being a DJ to a successful co-host in Arabs Got Talent and finally a dazzling rapper. Qusai has been performing for so many years from opening act to headlining in many stages, concerts, and shows in front of thousands of people from KSA, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, UAE, Bahrain, Europe, and USA.
movie The Duff: A Movie About High School Stories Based on the tragedies that take place in high schools, you will get to see in this movie the vengeance of the young adorable ‘Mae Whitman’ after being named the DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by popular mean friends. To save her senior year from turning into a tragedy, intelligent Bianca (Mae) boosts her confidence to overthrow her school’s ruthless mean friends. The cast includes talented young actors including Bella Thorne and Robbie Amell. It is worth mentioning that the director, Air Sandal, won the Academy Award in the category Best Live Action Short Film in 2006.
book Nutella Jar: An Inspirational Book for Weight Loss From its captivating name ‘Nutella’ to its content, this book has it all. It revolves around the author, Mahmoud Zaki, who shares his successful diet journey along with his struggles and challenges, to lose 50 kilos in one year without following up with a doctor. The book provides you with convincing reasons you may need to lose weight as well as solutions for problems that might be faced during this phase of life. The book is divided into three main sections; pre diet life, diet journey, and post-diet stories, in addition to other small sections that include top 20 diet rules. Published on 28th of January 2015, Mahmoud fruitfully sold more than 1600 copies in 10 days, and his book is among the most recommended for health enthusiasts.
April 2015 | 89
Cars
The New MINI 5-Door Hatchback... The Pure Go-Kart Feeling for the Whole Family! For the first time in the history of the British legend, MINI hatchback comes with 5 doors. This new MINI hatchback is essentially a longer version of the 3-door hatchback with two extra doors and a longer wheelbase by 161mm in comparison to the 3 doors model. So it is more spacious for better headroom, rear seat passengers, and more useable for small families. The large luggage trunk is prepared with a wide variety of uses and with a total capacity of 278 liter, which means 67 liter more than that of the 3-door version. The cockpit is one of the new MINI hatchback 5-door wonders and it also comes with rear seats that can host more people comfortably.
The New A-Class Mercedes-Benz: The Pulse of A New Generation The new A-Class’s most distinctive feature is its sporty nature and design. The car’s interior design was inspired by aircraft designs featuring sporty leather seating designed with integrated headrests, sporty-looking air vents, and a 3-spoke, 12-function steering wheel. Its performance offers a new milestone in both power and agility. They come with the 7G-DCT automatic transmissions as standard. The A-Class’ engine is a turbo-charged 1.6 litre, 4-cylinder unit that puts out 156 horsepower. It has safety features including collision preventation assist. It comprises two main functions: forward collision warning alerts the driver with audio and visual warning signs in case of getting too close to another vehicle. Other safety features include the attention assist system that calculates an individual behavioural pattern during the first few minutes of every trip. Mercedes-Benz CLA – The Absolute Four-Door Coupé Mercedes-Benz introduced the radical CLA, creating a new segment with world-leading aerodynamics, avant-garde coupé design, and a powerful efficient drive. The four-door coupé underscores the sporty side of the Mercedes-Benz brand, which is reflected in the unconventional interior of this irresistible coupe. Its breathtakingly sporty proportions and powerfully dynamic design idiom, with its interplay between concave and convex surfaces give this four-door coupé its unmistakable look, a bold design that lends the CLA with a powerful and aesthetic breadth.
90 | April 2015
Aries
March 21 - April 19
Life: This isn’t going to be an easy month, but you have the strength to stand your ground. There will be unique possibilities opened for you throughout April, but take your time and listen to no one but your gut when it comes to making decisions.
Gemini You should give a special push to your relationship with your loved one. Be attentive, as even a small fracture in your relationship may open up an abyss of problems. Stay collected and temperate, but also compassionate, and all will be fine.
Scorpio Keep an iron character this month and do not doubt yourself for any reason, even if someone close to you will become the source of such doubts. Do not get upset if some of your plans will not be realized into life. That may be for the best.
Love: If you are incapable of taking care of your emotions, then call upon your mind – or even better, your loved one. You will also receive an important experience that may be used in the future, even if everything now will not happen in the best way that it could. Calm down and go with the flow, yet do not lose your attentiveness.
Cancer If you work for the sake of work, just for material gains, then you are digging yourself a hole that not everyone can climb out of. Make sure you slip some time in for doing things that you actually love doing – things that have value, but not a price.
Sagittarius The heart of your problems is you. Face yourself honestly, and work on necessary transformations. You should also try to find your allies as soon as possible and realize who is not among them. This will allow you to avoid conflicts in the future.
Career: Concentrate on the twothree of your current problems, no more. Be smart about your resource and energy management, starting from the very first days of the month. Focus your attention on reality, leaving illusions behind you. Much will depend on how clearly you see and how logically you act.
Leo Focus on your current tasks. Do not let even little things to go amiss. If you want to keep your position, dedicate yourself to work entirely this month. Don’t even attempt to try anything new.
Fashion tip: Think of color when it comes to tops, and play with how those colors make you feel. Also, go for statement-style shoes, as they echo your confidence and strength.
Virgo You should plan some family events for the weekends, but during the week, the more time you will spend outside your house, the better. Try to be as active as possible; move all the time and walk somewhere.
Taurus Do not be afraid of your decisions, but take full responsibility for them. Display maximum effort and seriously upgrade your productivity, no matter how hard you find it to accomplish. Do not let circumstance bend you, learn to go to the end.
Libra New projects will arise and you will have to take them on, otherwise you will miss all of your chances. However, there is a chance that you will be betrayed at a certain moment. To avoid this, you should remain attentive throughout the entire month. Try to remain calm.
Capricorn This is a great time to relax. Your relationship with your partner will take on a form of maximum harmony, friends will support your ideas, and relatives will become incredibly sympathetic. That means that you can take a full rest from everything! Aquarius Be attentive and careful in your love-relationship this month. If you previously had notes of mistrust, now they will take on enormous strength, so be clear in all you do, and honest at all times. Pieces Try to be yourself and do not aim to change the world. Despite the feeling that you have a million problems, none of them are important. Right now, there is just one important point – the people you love. Protect them at all costs. April 2015 | 91
For the first time, Egypt celebrates the international day for dental care. Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences awarded as the top choice hotel of 2015 by Lianorg. Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh was selected one of the Top 25 Hotels in the Middle East from Trip advisor.
The international conference for cellular phones MCW 2015 has officially released by Qualcomm Company.
Abraj Misr to invest L.E 4.5bn in ‘The Gate’, first-of-its-kind Smart Eco-Friendly Landmark Project in Egypt announced in the Egypt Economic Conference.
InterContinental Hotels Group Cairo Citystars organize a blood donation campaign in collaboration with the Association of Friends of the National Cancer institute.
PIBE DE BARR10: BOOTS MADE FOR THE BEST, Adidas reveals new signature boots for Leo Messi that pay homage to star’s hometown.
Under the Sponsorship and participation of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, Dental Union and Signal, Egypt celebrates the international day for dental care for the first time. Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo; premium choice for International Conferences. Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence organizes “Clean up Day” part of its “Make a difference” campaign.
GB Ghabbour Auto and Misr El Kheir Foundation signed an agreement to pay the debts for more than 500 mums. Extensive Scientific Activity at Magrabi Eye Hospital in World Glaucoma Week, One Million Egyptians Blinded Due to Glaucoma to be doubled in 2020. 92 | April 2015
The 22nd session of the Cairo International Auto Show “AutomechFormula 2015” breaks a world record for the number of new cars reaching 56 new models.
Lenovo introduces powerful P70 with epic 4000 m Ah battery and stylish S90 smart phones with a front LED selfie flash in Egypt.
MasterCard, Egyptian Banking Institute, and Child and Youth Finance International host unique ‘Child & Youth Friendly Financial Products Development’ workshop.
Citystars Properties signs Five Hotel Management Agreements with Fairmont Raffles Hotels International (FRHI).
INJAZ Egypt is inviting you to attend the largest entrepreneurship competition in Egypt in AUC New Campus on 8th of April at 2 pm. Microsoft Lumia Partners with Truecaller to Offer Free Premium Services to be pre-loaded on the new Lumia 435 & Lumia 532 devices.
In celebration of “Pepsi Schools League, Pepsi Cola Egypt has inked a partnership agreement with La Liga under the slogan of “Go professional at a young age... Professional football.” OSN ENCOURAGES HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES AMONG STUDENTS AT THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF CHOUEIFAT AS PART OF ITS ‘LIVE MORE’ CSR INITIATIVE.
Emirates announced the launch of its Apple Watch app on 24 April designed to complement the Emirates iPhone app. MasterCard Re-enforces Commitment to Egypt at Egypt Economic Development Conference (EEDC) by sharing its expertise on technology. Qualcomm Technologies became the official technical partner for MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS formula1 team. Samsung participates at the Egypt Economic Development Conference to provide HD screens and Smart Signage that are “proudly manufactured in Egypt.”
Philips and Children’s Cancer Hospital Cairo collaborated to bring attention to the rising incidence of cancer in Egypt.
For the first time, a solution to water damage to achieve beautiful hair every day from Pantene to include Damage Blockers to prevent the hair damage. TAG Heuer, Google, and Intel have announced a partnership to launch a Swiss Smart watch powered by Intel technology and Android Wear. For the 3rd year consecutively, Sheraton Montazah Hotel Alexandria has joined the World’s Read Aloud Day that aims to create a community of readers.
Marriott International has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Egyptian General Company for Tourism and Hotels (EGOTH).
April 2015 | 93
On Spot The Charms Mother’s Day Bazaar
at the JW Marriott Cairo
JW Marriott Cairo hosted a magnificent bazaar for the Charms JW Ladies Society members, where they hosted Egyptian designers to support Egypt with their local made products, showcasing unique handcrafts such as shimmering jewelry, silver accessories, plexi-glass items, scarfs, paintings, and antiques. The ceremony was held at “Tutankhamun” ballroom, known for its elegance and luxurious decoration. The attendees expressed admiration for the elegant venue, the taste of delicious dishes, warm hospitality, and the fascinating live performance by the famous singer Rula Zaki.
94 | April 2015
On Spot The Irish Embassy in Cairo Celebrates Saint Patrick’s Day
On the occasion of Saint Patrick’s Day, the Irish Embassy in Cairo hosted a reception under the auspices of H.E. the Irish ambassador to Egypt. The event was held at the lavish Irish ambassador’s residence. The diplomatic community in Egypt as well as official dignitaries and prominent members of the business community attended the event, which was held in association with Jameson Irish Whiskey.
April 2015 | 95
On Spot Pottery CafĂŠ is Now Open at Tivoli Dome Heliopolis
After its splendid success in several venues, Pottery CafĂŠ opened a new spacious branch in Tivoli Dome, with an amusing outdoor and indoor seating area suitable for all seasons of the year. Guests enjoyed a wide outstanding array of soft drinks and appetizers while unwinding their senses with the background light music, fresh air, and extraordinary settings. The menu boasts an extensive variety of culinary delights including mouth-watering appetizers, seafood, crepe, panini, pastas, pizzas, chicken, desserts, and beverages.
96 | April 2015
On Spot Reserved Hosts First Style Days Event at Cairo Festival City
Reserved, everyone’s favorite one-stop-shop for all things stylish, organized special Styling Days event with well-known fashion bloggers at its flagship store in Cairo Festival City from March 5th-7th. During the three-day celebration of style, all Reserved customers had exclusive access to the Stylist Zone inside the store, where fashion bloggers; including Hadia Ghaleb, Radwa El Ziki, Sahar Fouad, Noha El Sherbiny, Nourhanne Eissa, and Farah Emara helped women, men, and children of all ages find their perfect style by offering the latest fashion tips.
The French Michelin Star Chef Julien Verrat
at Conrad Cairo
Conrad Cairo held a press conference for the French Michelin Star, Chef Julien Verrat, which was attended by prominent media and press figures. During the conference, the chef gave a wonderful speech about his secret ways of cooking and his previous experiences in the French and Japanese cuisine.
April 2015 | 97
On Spot Dabur Egypt launches Fem USA Hair Removing Cream Dabur Egypt Limited, one of the most trusted and recognized personal and healthcare brands in Egypt, has announced the local launching of its Fem USA Hair Removing Cream. Fem USA, which is already a popular brand among Arab women for its range of natural depilatory products, adds to a growing portfolio of Dabur’s brand of products in the country. With the launch of the new depilatory cream, Egyptian women will be able to get rid of unwanted hair in an easy, quick, and hassle-free manner while retaining the softness of their skin.
An Extraordinary Experience
With L’Oreal Paris Elvive and Makeup L’Oreal invited a select few to an exclusive “Extraordinary Experience” at the Fairmont Nile City Hotel in Cairo. The day commenced with an exquisite ladies lunch at Saigon Restaurant and Lounge. Guests were then escorted to the Deluxe Nile Suite, where they received a full-fledged pampering session using the latest Extraordinary Line from Elvive and L’Oreal Paris Makeup- “So Couture.”
98 | April 2015
On Spot Al-Mansour Automotive Shines with Its Latest Surprises at Automech- Formula 2015
As it’s excellence-labeled, Al-Mansour Automotive, a leading automotive company for more than 40 years, has been keen on participating in the 22nd edition of Automech-Formula 2015, held on March 12-17, 2015 in Cairo Convention Center, with a highly innovative and distinguished pavilion. Al-Mansour Automotive’s brilliance this year emanates from a raft of state-of-the-art and fabulous Opel’s new models for 2015 like new Meriva, new Corsa, New Adam, Opel Cascada, and Mokka.
adidas Opens the First Kids Store in the Middle East and Re-launches the Originals Store adidas, the global leader in the sporting goods industry, announced the re-opening of its Originals concept store and the launch of the first kids brand store in the Middle East region at CityStars Mall. The first ever adidas store aimed only at kids will give young athletes the very best of sports and lifestyle apparel as well as footwear, from the signature Team Messi range to the latest tracksuits.
April 2015 | 99
On Spot Ruen Thai Turns 4 Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo’s Signature Thai restaurant ‘Ruen Thai’ celebrates its fourth anniversary by hosting an elegant cocktail reception, where guests were welcomed by exquisite, mouth-watering Thai delicacies.
Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis
Hosted the Area GM’s Meeting Rezidor has chosen Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis as a venue for its 2015 Area GM’s Meeting for Middle East and Sub Sahara Africa. Wolfgang M. Neumann, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Rezidor Hotel Group GMs and corporate executives from the company gathered for one week of plenary sessions, break-out activities, pyramid gala dinner, and awards dinner. The meeting was welcomed by Harald Buerkle, the Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo General Manager.
100 | April 2015
second floor
Now open Tivoli DOME Heliopolis