SmartLynx Magazine. Winter 2017.

WINTER 2016/2017

HISTORY MEETS FUTURE IN RA’S AL KHAYMAH TOP 5 INTRIGUING RESTAURANTS GLAM AND GLITZ OF WINTER 16/17

Adventurous Team Building ELEGANCE OF KIA OPTIMA

Mintos Introduces Business NEW IDEAS – NEW SMARTLYNX

Vigorous Northern dogs

Zygimantas Surintas CEO, SMARTLYNX AIRLINES

Dear passenger, I happily welcome you on board the SmartLynx Airlines aircraft, and thank you for choosing us as your partner-in-vacation.

When I started working at SmartLynx Airlines six months ago, I saw endless opportunities to make each flight as good as it gets. And currently the selection has widened even more, as a lot of changes have already been implemented, and more are yet to come. We have strengthened the status of our fantastic cabin crew, offering you a service of the highest quality. The marketing team of our company has worked long and hard to ensure the sufficiency of all the necessary information and updates we might encounter upon. And our aircrafts

are maintained by the best technical experts, as safety is always our priority.

Whether you are heading to the vibrant Dubai, historical Geneva or picturesque Tenerife, you will not be disappointed in the trip, as we provide only but the best for you and your travel companions, whether small or big. We at SmartLynx airlines offer a responsible and most importantly – safe flight to the destination of your dreams. So, the only thing you may worry about is the wide selection of our inflight menus when choosing a snack for your trip.

Have a magnificent flight and a wonderful vacation!

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

CONTENTS INFLIGHT MAGAZINE

WINTER 2016/2017

Editorial Māra Miķelsone - Editor in Chief Mathilda Smith - Copy Editor Liene Eglīte - Reporter Gustavs Reinholds - Reporter

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Advertising

TEST DRIVE

For queries regarding advertising please contact: Zigmārs Valujevs (Latvia) +371 2681 0535 zigmars.valujevs@lhm.lv or Nordicom (Estonia) +372 5666 7770 advertising@nordicom.ee

Design Vladimirs Andrejevs - Designer Anastasija Step - Contributing designer Aleksejs Sosnovskis - Photographer

Publication SmartLynx Magazine published by SIA “Lighthouse media” in cooperation with LSG Sky Chefs, Riga Airport, Marupe parish, Latvia, LV-1053 E-mail: info@lhm.lv Cover: Siberian Husky

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SLED DOGS

Read all about the family who owns 15 energetic Northern hounds

We have met with MITAU MOTORS and Zigmārs Vestfals to test out the elegant and luxurious KIA OPTIMA 2016

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SMART TECH

See how far can an idea reach in the world of technologies

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RA’S AL KHAYMAH Explore the Emirates through this awe-inspiring Arab city

PLUS DON’T MISS ALL THIS 032

SMART BUSINESS

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NEW YEAR’S MUST-KNOW

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5 UNIQUE RESTAURANTS

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RIGA FASHION WEEK

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TEAM BUILDING THROUGH ADVENTURES

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DUBAI IN FOCUS

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SMARTLYNX PAGES

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TIPS FOR KIDS

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SMART LITERATURE

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MUST-WATCH smart info

Office Christmas Party, December 9 Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, T.J. Miller – a combo for genuine laughter. The plot is simple – a branch decides to go all in when throwing a massive party in order to land a big client, supposedly saving the branch from closing. Will it work?

No one knows...but a journey of fun and hilarity is rest assured.

The Great Wall, February 17 Ever wondered what is the mystery surrounding the Great Wall of China? Well, think no more as Matt Damon will gladly lead you through the epic fiction film telling of fictional characters – good and evil – battling for the humanity in the presence of China’s most significant monument.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, December 16 When a few screenings turn into a world-recognized saga, you never know what to do when the whole thing is over. However, as it has lately been cultivated, the fans will always want to know more about the beginning. Thus, the “Rogue One” appeared, setting a background for the everlasting Star Wars saga.

How good or bad – it’s up to you to decide!

La La Land, December 2 What a romance this movie holds. The beautiful Emma Stone and charming Ryan Gosling have once again united, only this time – in a musical comedy-drama that promises a laugh-andcry story of the century. An aspiring actress, a successful musician – both meet and greet and fall in love. Yet the road to success seems to rip them apart, exploring the journey of both and each.

Patriots Day, January 13 The LEGO Batman Movie, February 10 We all know, yet never admit the excitement when our childhood games have become alive! No matter what the age. Thus, do not forget this date when the well-awaited sequel to the Lego Movie arrives. And this one is promising to be very special as well – with the appearance of Bruce Wayne and the criminals of Gotham City.

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It is time to recognize not only the fiction, but also the reality. The very sad, yet truthful account of a police officer working at the 2013 Boston Marathon and dealing with the outcome of the tragedy that striked the world.

Starring Mark Wahlberg, Kevin Bacon and J. K. Simmons, this movie will lead you all the way through the nerve-wrecking manhunt after the terrorist attack.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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1 BERGFESTival, December 2 – 4, Saalbach, Austria

An English composer once said that “music is an outburst of the soul.” So outburst yours in the gloomy winter days and nights to come by following our guide to the hottest music festivals of this season.

2 Rise, December 10 – 17, Les Deux Alpes, France 3 Eurosonic, January 11 – 14, Groningen, The Netherlands 4 Snowattack, January 28 – February 4, Les Orres, France 5 Sneeuwbal Winter Festival, January 28, Utrecht, Netherlands 6 Awakenings Eindhoven, January 27, Eindhoven, Netherlands 7 Stuttgart Electronic Music Festival (SEMF), December 10, Stuttgart, Germany

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MUST-VISIT smart info

Dia de Reyes on January 6 Lanzarote, Spain Literally translated as the King’s Day, it celebrates the very end of Christmas festivities. Before the date, a spectacular procession is held called Cabalgata de Reyes, where the Three Wise Men parade along the city on camels throwing sweets and snacks to all the children around.

But the real fun starts on the King’s Day itself, when bonfires are lit in memory of those who set Bethlehem on fire in order to hide the North Star from the King Herod. Well, according to the legend at least. But for other inhabitants this day may be more associated with presents – presents that

we usually give each other at Christmas time. The giftgiving is correlating with the Three Wise Men giving their offerings to Baby Jesus on this very day. You are also welcome to try out the day’s special – Roscon de Reyes – which is the King’s Cake made with lemon and orange juice, brandy and orange flower water, all of it covered with crystallized fruits and sliced almonds.

And there is more – inside of each cake there is a small gift hidden, but beware – those who find a broad bean inside of the cake are ought to pay for the next round.

World Buskers Festival, January 19 – 29, Christchurch, New Zealand It is the eccentric spectacles that catch the eye of each and every visitor of this spectacular festival. And we really do mean eccentric – hoola-hoopers, trapeze artists, unicycle jugglers and even Le Gateau Chocolate. The festival takes up 11 days, in which almost 500 exciting acts will be performed. The streets not only are filled with colors, laughter and amazement, but also celebrate the very history and existence of the city, as it has overcome various obstacles.

Nevertheless, the venues of the diverse celebration can lead one to laugh and be pleasantly frightened at the same time; an indescribable feeling to have. However, be aware – as you enjoy a performance, just as easily can you become a part of the act!

Jaisalmer Desert Festival, February 8 – 10, Jasailmer, India One of the most peculiar festivals of this season, for sure. It is not just the romanticized traditional Indian sights that take the focus of the festival, but also the very odd acts performed. Want to prove yourself as a man – take part in the masculine show-off of turbans and mustaches, both judged in every criterion possible, yet holding on to the masculine features.

And camels have not been forgotten as well, for they are the most active participants of the festival – camel polo, camel race, camel decoration and, yes – camel dancing. Do we really need to say more?

MUST-VISIT smart info Rio Carnival, February 24 – 28, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Oh, the rhythms of samba! They can make even the laziest person to get up and shake their hips. And to do that in the one and only Rio – that is an experience never to forget. The carnival embodies an intense combination of history, religion, colors, and music. And it is not just the half-naked, brightly dressed bodies that party around; Carnival Balls are also a thing – glamorous, dazzling and full of Bond-like elegance.

Mevlana Whirling Dervishes, December 10 – 17, Konya, Turkey Spinning around for seven days can be a challenging task for anyone. However, this dizzy festival not only exhibits the traditional costumes and dances of Turkey, but also manifests the significance of inner peace and harmony. Fueled by historical background, the festival brings a divine inspiration whilst unconsciously creating a connection between the whirling dances and oneself.

Sapporo Snow Festival, February 6 – 19, Sapporo, Japan As many events usually do, this also started as a mere demonstration of only few people who decided to have fun and build some statues out of the very accessible snow. Later joined by Japan Self-Defense Forces, this movement gradually turned into a full-range winter festival. Almost 400 incredible sculptures of ice and snow are the centre of focus, while surrounded with winter sports, traditional food, Sapporo Beer Garden and the many historical and cultural sites of the city of Sapporo.

FASHION smart info

Shades of Dunes – go-everywhere handbags Ascetic-design handbags from innovative, durable material are the way to go this season. Made in Latvia, these bags can be personalized in prints and designs of customer’s choice. A bag that is strong, resistant and most importantly – waterproof, will make one’s daily routines so much easier. And to do that in the ever-

Bulichev

Ilya Bulichev is a conceptual fashion designer, originating his concept in 2002. It started as a mere tuning of already existing jeans, experimenting of which turned into masterful and unique products of denim.

Bulichev – it is a conceptional denim-wear in casual chic style. All items are made by one master only, which gives them not only a more personal value, but also a confident label of quality. Bulichev Jeans Atelier offers a wide assortment of complete designer clothes, as well as an opportunity to order tailoring or fix denim clothing. You will find the atelier with the feeling of individuality and craftsmanship, and nothing less. “In the development of bespoke jeans the main idea is to sublimate the unique character of my client into a

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so-cool style of “3 wind knots” – nothing more to add to your Christmas list.

Moreover, the bags possess a magical background – inspiration for the bags comes from the mystical Rainbow Beach set in Queensland, Australia. “The subtle and natural shades of the bags resemble the colourful sand dunes of the Rainbow

Beach”, so often associated with aboriginal legends and myths.

Visit www.3windknots.com and view all other amazing accessories of “3 wind knots”, intertwined with emotions of love, joy and miracles.

personal design, so that it becomes the main part of a wardrobe.”

Visit www.bulichev.com and see what all the jeans-fuss is about, as well as check out the new leather accessories of excellent quality and style.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Sled-dogs smart winter

THE NORTHERN HOUNDS OF LATVIA Text by Māra Miķelsone Photo by Kristaps Hohs

Iveta and Kristaps are the two proud owners of 15 northern breed dogs, together forming the organization “Sniega Suņi”, and participating in different sled-dog activity trainings, as well as providing fantastic winter sled rides with Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes. Although mainly operating at Zilie Kalni of Ogre City, they might just as well jump into the car and go to any place in Latvia, where sled rides convoyed by beautiful northern dogs can be enjoyed by anyone. But the most important thing – the owners just as often go to various children social care institutes of Latvia, just to make all the unfortunate children happier with the help of the unconditional love of dogs.

We have met Iveta, who is not only a qualified sled sports trainer and judge, but has also completed professional dog

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training courses, as well as acquired education of veterinary assistant. And all that just to understand the dogs even

better, especially the mysterious nature of northern dogs, which Iveta and her family have grown to love.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Sled-dogs smart winter When asked about why exactly these breeds have been chosen as companions in northern lands, Iveta tells of the dogs’ navigation, sensors and instincts they bear. These dogs can think, analyze and make decision independently. They can operate even during the harshest of winters, leading their owner through freezing cold and unexpected weather. Therefore, in such lands as Alaska trust in their dogs is of utmost importance. Dogs are faithful to their owners already from birth, and is important that these feelings are mutual.

It all started with Buffy…

“Everything begun with a Siberian Husky coming into our family. Buffy, who arrived in our family unexpectedly, tested our previously acquired knowledge on what was an active lifestyle. A concept we were apparently not aware of up until then. As soon as Buffy got bored, mischiefs begun – dug-up garden, nibbled bushes, periodical howling.

Therefore, we decided to take upon an Alaskan malamute – Holger. We hoped that Buffy’s mischiefs would come to an end along with the arrival of Holger, but little did we know that all atrocities would just double up.

Only after a few-kilometre runs did the dogs become calmer. That’s why we started to get more interested into activities that could preoccupy the dogs.

We joined a few enthusiast groups, including an organization that held the first sled dog sports championship in Latvia. That is when our true infatuation with the dogs and sports begun. And then it developed even further, as we realized that two dogs are not enough for a wintertime sled riding. We established that there were two more northerners in the dog shelter, looking for new home.

We didn’t have to think long before we sat in the car and made our way to them. And that is how we met Alaskan Malamute Maya, and Siberian Husky Pooh.

Then there was a moment when we gave an interview for the local TV broadcast, after which people started calling us and offering their dogs. Some of them even made threats as to put them down or just let them go, if we wouldn’t agree to take the dogs in. But some were honest enough to confess that they were not prepared to take care of such active dogs. And thus, we are now with 15 dogs who are dependent on us. 5 of them are Alaskan Malamutes, and 10 – Siberian Huskies.”

Love for the northerners is inexplicable

The owner of the northern pets tells us that the love for the northern breed dogs could not be explained. “Why these dogs? Well, why we love anyone? It could not be explained. These dogs are part of our family, and we could not live without them anymore. It would be as if to take out a part of one’s heart. We are often asked as to whether we could give up one of the dogs. And the answer is a simple no! After all, none of you could just simply give away a friend or a member of your family, now could you?”

And what about the dogs that are still found in the shelters? Are you ready to take up new pets?

“My heart aches for each of the dogs of this breed when they have become unfortunate or led to a shelter. Currently we are not able to take up more dogs, but as soon as we create a larger space for the ones we do have, instead of the dwelling territory we live at right now, we will definitely be able to help more dogs.”

While living in an inhabited territory, you must have neighbours around?

“Yes, we do have a few neighbours who show their frustration with the dogs from time to time. Because with our dogs it is a chain reaction – once a dog starts to bark, the rest of them join in a choir. But it does not happen as often as one might think.

Our dogs have been trained well, and they are able to get it together and behave. At the same time, some own a little dog that barks constantly. But just because he is one and we are 15, complaints arise. That is why we cannot wait when we will be able to move to a different, more spacious territory to move to our new home.”

So, all 15 hounds are willing to pull sleds?

“As the majority of the dogs have been adopted, and some of them from quite horrible conditions, it took quite a long time to train and tame the dogs so that they would become genuine sled pullers.

However, we still own two that will not ever become sled dogs. One of them cannot run

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

hIgh lEVEl SERVICES

foR SkIIng aCtIVItIES Many people wait just for winter, because only during this time of the year is offered opportunity to experience wonderful and joyful activities like alpine skiing, snowboarding or cross country skiing. To enjoy these winter activities to utmost, you need very good equipment and also high level service. Therefore it is the right time and the right choice to apply to “FANS Prosport” – the leading winter equipment and service provider in Baltic countries.

“FANS Prosport” was established in 2002 and it operates in sports equipment and wear and service field more than 14 years. To become a leader in any field, you should provide the best and also employ very high level specialists. Therefore all work in “FANS Prosport” is done by certified technicians, who are former professionals in skiing, highly experienced and respected in their craft. The staff of “FANS Prosport” has also Olympic games experience, because the leading specialist Dzintars Melvers was the chief technician of Latvian Alpine ski team in Sochi Olympics, where was earned Top30 place.

When enjoying winter activities, not only very good equipment matters, what can you obtain at widest range

in “FANS Prosport” shops across Latvia, but also high level service. The best skis or boots does not give automatically satisfaction from skiing process, but how they are prepared and adjusted to every people individually. With our special snowglide tools we will provide necessary sharpening of your alpine skis, which will make safe and smooth turning down the slope. Athletes will certainly appreciate special ski edge sharpening with diamond stones machine. “FANS Prosport” offers also special boot and foot fitting for every individual feature, carried out by modern technologies, which will make you to forget about uncomfortable and painful feelings in feet or leg during the skiing. The boots will fit so well and naturally, that you could think just about the enjoyment of the skiing process.

SERVICE – 50 A. Deglava street & 1 Garozes street, Riga.

www.fans.lv

Sled-dogs smart winter

longer distances because of her arthritis.

Unfortunately, her previous living conditions were bad for her health.

But that does not mean. mean that we exclude her in any way. She is still taken with us, and enjoys long walks. And then there is one Malamute who just refused to run with the sled. He is just lazier than the others, enjoying long and slow walks. And it is important to take into account every single characteristic of a dog – there are the ones that can overcome such features. But there also those who just do not feel comfortable in the setting their owners have decided for them. And this dog has clearly shown his attitude towards the sport, and just as our children – we accept them with every kind of characteristic traits and have learned to live with them. Just as the dog has to get used to his owner, the owners themselves have to be able to adapt

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to their dogs. And when having 15 of those, we already have learned to accept and live with them quite organically, and without even looking directly at them, we know every single nuance of each of the dog’s behaviour, as well as the originators of certain mischiefs.”

By now readers have started to wonder what is the difference between the two breeds Iveta and Kaspars own? Who is faster, who is more skilful as a sled dog? Here the owner explains the main differential features of these two breeds.

“Alaskan Malamute is a heavy-built dog, originated in Alaska. These dogs are capable of pulling heavy freights, although they are not too fast. At the very beginning they were used for heavy works in Alaskan territories – coalmines, logging, railway development and many similar

work fields. Siberian Husky, on the other hand, is a slightly-built dog, coming into existence in Siberian territories. These dogs were mostly used for long-distance trips of at least 100 kilometres per day.

They were the most accessible “vehicle” in the North, as technological equipment was not as durable to work in the cold of -50 degrees. Therefore, Huskies are faster and more capable of running longer spans.

Currently, many similar breeds have been created, however their skills are not as developed, focused only on athletics and speed. Such breeds as Alaskan Husky and Eurohound are dogs of short fur, with more stretched build and longer legs.

They resemble hunting dogs, but have been coloured in Husky-colours, therefore some of them do remind us of their ancestors. However, majority of people will not guess their northern ancestries.”

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Sled-dogs smart winter

Our true calling is to create a Sports and Rehabilitation Centre for the Northern Breed Dogs. What is the centre going to offer? Truly diverse benefits: •

The dogs will get a second chance for a more appropriate life, complying with the care and activities they are needing;

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Rehabilitation, sports massages, dog hairdresser, etc.;

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Northern breed owners will have a chance to comprehend the nature of their pets through various trainings, consultations, appropriate running venues, etc.;

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For children it will be an excellent place to socialize with the dogs, especially for those who have once

And besides these breeds, which else have been used in sled sports?

“Actually, one can use any dog breed from Chihuahua to Russian Terrier, as long as it’s ready for energetic activities.

Different competitions gather even more different breeds. Samoyeds are quite often competitors, as well as Chukotka sled dogs. Sometimes even Beagles attend, as being ever-so-active. And of course Laikas – the famous Russian hunting dogs, as well as German Shorthaired Pointers or Weimaraners.

And a lot of mixed-breeds are also a major part of competitions, because after all – every dog of a larger build and energy up to its ears will be more than happy to run outside as much as possible. The main thing for the owner is to understand the abilities of his dog, so as to not exhaust him.”

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

How are the dogs trained for this sport?

“Huskies and Malamutes are not challenging to be trained if one comprehends their thinking manners.

These dogs never tend to run after a stick, idly lay in front of the porch or just guard a house. They have been created for running and pulling jobs, and that is what they are ought to be trained for – as sled dogs. The ordinary dog expert, focused on just improving the behaviour and safety of the dog, will usually decline working with the Northern breeds. They have the false opinion of them being dumb. But as I have always said – there is no such thing as a dumb dog, there is only a dumb owner. Because dog is a direct reflection of his owner. If the dog will have enough attention every single day, and trainings will be constant and consequent, and most importantly – he will never be intimidated with physical

acquired a certain trauma or fright of the dogs; •

For children it would also be a good way to find their furry friend and spend some time together, if at their home conditions for dog-keeping are not appropriate. It will also teach them the responsibilities of caring for a dog;

•

Our plan is also to involve children from different social groups, particularly children with special needs, because we believe that just as Equestrian therapy, Canine therapy can also bring great results for those who deal with challenging illnesses.

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Sled-dogs smart winter strength – the dog will become a wellbehaved, obedient life companion and a friend.”

What happens when the wintertime is over? How are the dogs preoccupied during sunny weathers?

“We are indulged with the dogs the whole year, but the sled sport goes on until the weather temperature does not exceed +15 degree limit. For winter there is the sled, but for other seasons – velo-sled.

During summer we do not take clients for a ride, but we do continue riding with bicycles or just running with the dogs, for they must be on a constant move during any conditions.

Overall, the dog trainings, just like for people, are organized whilst concentrating on the main elements of skills, such as, stamina, agility and strength. And dogs are usually trained with lesser distances as anticipated for the competition, because that is enough for them to later run full spans.”

Iveta, Kristaps and 15 northerners are part of something much bigger – the organization “Sniega suņi”, Latvian for “Snow Dogs”. The organization was established in 2012 with an aim to promote the prestige and recognition of the sled dog sports, as well as popularize the sports as an active sport type accessible for anyone with their dogs, and just as energetic people around. well. That appeals to them even more, Who can participate in the sled sports? riding with the dog easier.” and they understand each other. And I “Participation is for anyone who desires. Where is the sled pulling held?

The only rule is to have an appropriate “We provide the sled riding all around am more than certain that dogs also feel equipment for both the owner and the Latvia, the main thing is to find a suitable and understand that these children are dog, including a suitable clothing for the place for that. Therefore, if you contact somewhat like them – dogs know things respective weather. By joining us for us in good time, we can adapt to almost that we couldn’t even imagine. There the first time, organization can loan the every place. We have arranged a special have also been situations when an older equipment. And of course, one has to vehicle for the comfort of our dogs. kid – usually a rebel of sort – just smirks be capable of evaluating both his and Because after all – it is them who we and does not show any interest in the the dog’s skills according to the distance have to think about. If they feel good, all dogs. But then, in an hour or so, we see that he has found “the one”, petting him chosen. Therefore, training programmes is good with us as well.” and not letting the dog go. for different age groups are formed separately and adapted to the skills of the How do you do it all? How can you These moments are the most important maintain 15 dogs at the same time, ones, and that is why we would never dog and owner.” want to change what we do. And no Latvian Federation of Sleddog Sports moreover, with such great results? also organizes amateur competition “To be honest, it is the responsiveness, matter what, we will continue to involve where anyone can try out their skills. In or the mere lack of it, which has made the dogs in charity. Therefore, we do await our competitions even children from 3 us to develop the way we are now. It has a charity for ourselves as well – we would years of age participate, therefore no made us to do everything on our own. be more than happy to accept any kind age limits have been set. Participants are However, not always can we do things by of help, may it be an investor, or a project to develop. Currently we are situated in both professionals and amateurs, the rest ourselves.

It is the moments when visiting children’s a territorially disadvantageous place, as is up to you.

We also have athletes-veterans home, when we are ascertained of what many projects include only country side, competing amongst the people. For we do. When you see the happy faces of not city development. example, MTB cyclists are regular the children, and more importantly – the Of course, we always hope for larger competitors, as dogs are great connections they have developed with donation. We will not refuse help, and at the companions for cycling. In these cases, the dogs as soon as they found that the same time – we will continue what we do.” even special bikes are available to make dogs have once been abandoned as 20

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Visit “Snow Dogs” on their webpage – www.sniegasuni.lv and get to know the numerous possibilities you will get if participating in one of their organized activities. Do not forget to make an appointment in due time, and soon enough you will be able to meet one of the 15 amazing and energetic northern dogs.

And remember – any donation counts!

Help the generous pets and their owners to continue to do the good work they have started up. We are all for dogs who do charity!

Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

Ra’s al Khaymah Text by Liene Eglīte

Publicity photos

Tourism segment travelling to the United Arab Emirates tends to head right to the heart of Dubai where bright lights and magnificent views await. However, just a bit further up North there is a place called Ra’s al Khaymah, which divided into two parts by a natural creek that has absorbed both historical and modern sites. Although being the capital of the fourth largest Emirate of the same title, it promises an atmosphere of a cosy, friendly small-town, preserving the well-known Arab hospitality and friendliness.

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

The name of the city holds a meaning “top of the tent”, titled such because of its northern location

Ra’s al Khaymah is one of the 7 Arab Emirates, the capital city of which holds the same title

The city has a heritage of five thousand years of age, the proof of which can be traced in the numerous historical sites, such as forts, abandoned villages, trade routes, and museums the city holds onto.

The creek that divides the city of Ra’s al Khaymah holds both a symbolic and literal bridge that connects the historical Old Ra’s al Khaymah with the modern Nakheel. Surrounding the city are lushes of mountains, beaches and deserts – all holding a great

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importance for not only the tourist audience, but the citizens as well. Many of them are employed in the industries of fishing, trading and agriculture. It is such jobs as growing date-palms, trading fish and Bedouin tribes roaming around the desert that have made the essence and culture of Ra’s al Khaymah. Juffar and Jazirat Al Hamra are the most significant villages of fishing and sea trading, as well as Shimal, Falayah and Dhayah that hold the famous oasis settlements.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

visitrasalkhaimah

The highest mountain of the UAE is located right in this Emirate, standing even as 1 910 metres high

The city is only a 45-minute drive from the very contrasting city of Dubai

The date-palm growers of Ra’s al Khaymah can offer up to 18 different types of dates

Don’t forget to follow the city’s official Instagram account – visitrasalkhaimah – to find out the latest news and get inspired by the beautiful photos of the magnificent Ra’s al Khaymah

Important information

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Although the majority of population consists of non-UAE nationals, it should always be remembered that it is still a Muslim country where respect for its traditions and customs is held of high importance

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It is advised to wear clothing covering one’s shoulders and knees when entering public places

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In an unfortunate case of emergency, keep these hospital numbers in your pocket: +971 (0)7 2074232 (RAK Hospital) and +971 (0)7 222 3666 (Saqr Hospital)

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Spring, summer and autumn season visits will be guaranteed with a hot-hot-hot weather, however keep in mind that during winter the nights in Ra’s al Khaymah can become quite chilly

•

Before booking a trip to the UAE, always keep in mind visa requirements for the citizenship of your country

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Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

So, what to do in Ra’s al Khaymah? out the newest trends #3 Try in water sports

A 64-kilometer coast line stretches along Ra’s al Khaymah, with beaches of white sand and crystal clear water, thus being every vacationer’s paradise on earth. Red-sand desert and mountain ranges provide an excellent tourism destination for those who cannot stand the long and relaxing process of sunbathing and swimming. And not to forget about the commercially-prone tourists - a vast variety of malls, dining areas and cinemas is also a great part of Ra’s al Khaymah.

The abundance of entertainment and relaxation facilities will be provided for the ones who love to enjoy the view while simultaneously enjoying a nice Jacuzzi.

Just because of the endless activities the city provides for every – and we mean every – taste, choose the list of your liking and enjoy the experiences Ra’s al Khaymah offers.

#1 Dance out in crazy beach parties

FOR YOUNG AND RESTLESS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Dance out in crazy beach parties Keep adrenaline high in the Fly Fish Try out the newest trends in water sports Enjoy the view with a helicopter tour Try out your driving skills on the RAK Track

#5 Try out your driving skills on the RAK Track

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

#6 Escape the heat at the Iceland Waterpark

#7

a Camel Meet

FOR FAMILY VACATION 6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Escape the heat at the Iceland Waterpark Meet a camel in the Awafi Desert Unwind and play in the Saqr Park Try out bowling in Emirate-style See how fast can a camel race

#10 See how fast can a camel race

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

#13 Look up the history in the Dhayah Fort #12

Experience the Falcon Show

yourself for a nice spa #14 ofTreat Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Waldorf Astoria

FOR TRUE TOURISTS 11. Enjoy the recreation of Marjan Island 12. Experience the tradition of falconry in the Falcon Show in Banyan Tree Al Wadi 13. Look up the history in the Dhayah Fort, Jazirat Al Hamra or Mohammed Bin Salim Mosque 14. Treat yourself for a nice spa of Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Waldorf Astoria 15. Take a walk along Al Qawassim Corniche

#11 Enjoy the recreation of Marjan Island

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Ra’s al Khaymah smart travel

#23 Walk a 4-hour hiking tour in the Jais Mountain FOR ADVENTURERS

#18

Experience an authentic Bedouin lifestyle in the Bedouin Oasis Desert Camp

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

16. Outlive the ultimate Emirate experience in the Bassata Desert Village 17. Prove your enthusiasm for cycling in the Showka Bicycles Centre 18. Experience an authentic Bedouin lifestyle in the Bedouin Oasis Desert Camp 19. Ride a horse through the desert in the Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre 20. Have an adventure on the Seawings seaplane 21. Try out one of Ra’s al Khaymah’s traditions of fishing or archery 22. Go to the mighty Hajar Mountains 23. Walk a 4-hour hiking tour in the Jais Mountain

#19 Ride a horse through the desert

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Technology smart tech

Text by Gustavs Reinholds Publicity photos

ECHNOLOGIES

TO BOOST YOUR LIFE

Winter season 2016/2017 calls for new inventions in the world of technologies. These are amazing ideas that have become largely-popular and requested devices because of their originality, as well as practicality. See what you are missing out on, or get some inspiration for Christmas gifts from this list of Smart Tech.

button is to be placed anywhere in your home – washing machine, refrigerator, sofa or anywhere else you dwell at the most. Prior connecting the button to the Amazon Prime account and listing the products you might be needing in near future and voila – you push the button and the product is delivered!

Amazon Dash Button

SHOPPING IN A DISTANCE OF A BUTTON First, it was all about introducing varieties of products into the stores.

Then they continued with placing the same products into the digital world so that one wouldn’t have to leave the house to go and buy something. But now it has come even further. A button – yes, just a button – that enables people to make recurring purchases without even opening their laptop. The logo-branded 30

Currently, Amazon offers more than 250 household products to be purchased this way, including the most used and runout products of an average household, for example, diapers from Huggies, Bounty kitchen roll or Olay skincare products. And all the products can be listed, viewed and cancelled through the Amazon app on your phone.

UAViators

THE HUMANITARIAN DRONES Yes, drones are the new and exciting inventions that have made their way into both business and entertainment worlds.

However, a lot more concern has arisen since drones became more available to wider audiences. But UAViator has found a way to gather all drone enthusiasts to assist in cases of humanitarian crises. UAViator is a humanitarian UAV network that signs up already experienced drone operators who are willing to provide disaster relief. As drones are able to capture aerial images much faster, cheaper and at a higher resolution than any satellites would, they are excellent devices for communication of the land surface after any natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tsunamis, or earthquakes. Those who join the humanitarian team are also provided with trainings conducted to ensure safe and responsible use of their drones.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Technology smart tech

SPUD

Dufort’s Pancakes

THE MANY FACES OF BREAKFAST Imagine – waking up, heading to the kitchen and being greeted with freshly cooked pancakes, and as you sit down behind the plate, the pancake has your own smiling face on it. Or your friend’s.

Or dog’s. Or anyone’s, for that matter.

Possibly crazy, but let’s be honest – no one would want to miss out on such an opportunity. 3D printed pancakes make a modern breakfast of you and…you. A digital camera first captures the person’s likeness, then the Kinneir Dufort software transforms the brightness from the image into contours, which are then produced gradually by a batter dispenser.

Ian Hollister, the director of the Kinneir Dufort explains the process: “Combining technology with embedded face recognition and tracking software, the system dispenses layers of batter directly onto a hot plate allowing the creation of detailed and complex images within pancake surfaces. As the conventional pancake batter is applied it immediately starts to cook and change colour and as subsequent layers are added the different tonal qualities of the image build up.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

THE SPONTANEOUS POP-UP DISPLAY SPUD is a truly unique invention – a high-resolution, 24-inch display that could be portable in a purse. How? Quite easy, actually. You can collapse it just like an umbrella, and it turns into the form of a typical paperback book (put a title on it, like “Harry Potter and the Pop-up Display”, and people will actually think it’s a book). “SPUD uses custom combined with the latest DLP technology to produce the sharp, bright image,” the inventors tell.

How often have we wished a larger display when viewing some videos, a ton of work documents, or just pictures on our phones? The SPUD can be easily connected to a smartphone, tablet or laptop with a simple HDMI cable or wireless adapter. It’s up to you to decide whether you need it for productive work, or an improved entertainment.

Bonjour

this alarm clock can be adjusted to wake you up earlier if there’s a sudden major traffic jam along the route you are about to take that day. Secondly, if you decide to wake up earlier for a run, it will let you have a longer sleep if during that time the weather is reported to be rainy or stormy. Thirdly, by integrating with your calendar, it will know your agenda, thus automatically setting the appropriate alarm time for every morning. And lastly, the alarm clock gets smarter with time, as the brain is built in the cloud where all the information about your sleep preferences, previous requests and daily activities helps the device to acquire, analyze and operate new information.

Needless to say, this clock is full of so many other useful features, such as starting your day with a favourite song, speaking to you whenever needed in the nicest voice, as well streaming live-feed of your security camera or any other connected devices.

Hudify

A TRANSPARENT GPS SYSTEM We’ve come a long way since using those large, inconvenient pieces of paper they call maps. Now there’s a variety of so many different digitalized maps – of various colours, shapes, GPS voices, and graphics. But we haven’t had this yet – a transparent GPS device in your car that allows you to focus on the road with no distractions. When the phone and other device holders were introduced, it wasn’t long until people started complaining about how this black box actually distracts them from the road. Hudify will let you know of the upcoming turn directly in the line of your sight, and will draw your attention to speed limits, warning signals, and traffic.

Basically, it works like any other GPS but with the great advantage of turning your smartphone into a head-up transparent display.

THE WISE ALARM CLOCK No no, we’re not saying hello to you in a fancy manner. Bonjour is a voicecontrolled alarm clock, serving as your morning assistant. This clock has the voice of a human and manners of, well, some humans. So what’s so different about it from any other clock you might want to ignore every morning? Firstly, 31

Business smart business

Investment Experience through a Brand New Marketplace Text by Māra Miķelsone

Photos by Kaspars Filips Dobrovolskis kafido.com

Start-up companies have started to take over the world of business, and striving to create unique ideas - each of these companies offer possibilities one might never thought of before. Therefore, we would like you to introduce to “Mintos” – a relatively new company, considered as a genuine success prototype as the pace of its success accelerates quite rapid. “Mintos” is a peer-to-peer lending marketplace where anyone – and we do mean anyone – can invest in loans originated by various nonbank loaning institutions, and most importantly – receive the yield in form of the interest rates set for every loan. This is the first such concept developed in Latvia, so we were excited to talk with Mārtiņš Šulte, the brains behind the operation. How do you start a company, what does it take to build it into a successful and international organization, and what is the role of team in a start-up venture? Find out all of this and more in a very Smart Business interview.

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Business smart business What made you to decide to start up a peer-to-peer business, oriented at particularly loans?

First time I encountered the peer-to-peer platform was when I started studying the MBA programme at INSEAD Business School (one of the largest business school in the world, accommodating Singapore and Paris, now also Abu Dhabi).

I found out about such platform from the graduates of my university. I was in need of financial aid, like so many of us are while students, and I borrowed from a platform which meant that my loan was financed by many different people. Bank was not as flexible in this situation – I was going to study abroad, did not have any guarantees.

I graduated university in 2014, after which my plan was to go to London and slowly develop towards my own entrepreneurship, but I realized that this need not to wait.

Ideas were a few, but this was the one with a true potential – there were no limits, the field had just started to develop in Latvia and the concept itself was brand new, full of possibilities. And what played the most significant part – that it combined both finances and technologies, two of the ideas close to myself.

On April, 2014 the idea had already been planted, and on May “Mintos” was founded. It all went down right here in Latvia, where the market was good with a chance to expand abroad. The first idea, however, did differ from the one we maintain currently. We started by lending the loans from ourselves, and to provide funding for them, investors were attracted.

Whole summer went by working hard, as we begun it all from scratch. And when the whole operation was launched as of January, in four-month time we realized that demand was for something different, thus we created a larger market which was used by not only us as loaners, but any of the non-banking lending institutions. We could possibly come to that much earlier, but I guess it’s an important part of establishing a new business – you start with something smaller, then gradually comprehend the market and realize what is to be changed and done. Now, more than a year and a half has passed and the growth is quite rapid.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

What were those other ideas, if that’s not a secret? Why didn’t they work out?

Not at all. One was to create venture capital funds, but we realized there would not be much of potential arising when encountering investments. Other idea was to develop a business oriented at transportation. It was supposed to be either Uber, which unfortunately didn’t enter this region, or something similar to our very own Taxify. Although ideas were good enough, and seemed of great interest to me, it is important to understand the added value to the potential idea. For example, transportation is not really my field, and as interesting it may start, it would gradually seem not as exciting.

However, in this case, as I mentioned before – finances and technologies are in my field of interest.

How did you develop your team? I assume such venture would not be possible all by yourself.

I started out as the brains behind the operation. Next step, logically, was to form a team because no one could do a business all by themselves. Conditions were perfect, I may add, as attracting funds went quite swiftly. That is how our original team was formed, other financers being our partners. After that

we gradually involved IT specialists who helped to make “Mintos” what it is now.

At the beginning there were just 5 of us in the team. It actually was a great team, I love looking back at the summer when everyone else went vacationing, meanwhile we were drawing up business plans, studying international researches and sticking up to the main idea – if we do something, we do it exactly as we want to see it. And it was quite an interesting feeling to start something completely from scratch.

Ambitions were created bigger at the beginning, as I believe it is the right approach when starting up something new.

And although a lot has happened since, we are still at the very beginning of our plans. To finance loans globally – that is our main purpose. You can already view the map of the countries we have already acquired. The future potential is quite large, starting with Europe, continuing with Africa and Asia, and maybe even getting to USA. So why didn’t you start in the USA? After all, it is considered the land of opportunities.

When people go the US, they often forget that competition in there is just as much as the opportunities. So I don’t strive there quite yet, but in time – we

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Business smart business

will most definitely expand outside the borders of Europe.

What about rivalry? The notion of your business is relativy unique, aren’t you afraid of someone following you close by?

Competition is something you have to take into account. And to be honest, it is actually a compliment of sort. But we don’t feel the competition just yet. Not direct competitors, at least, as what we do is still unique. But then there are indirect competitors – all institutions that lend loans through their own platform.

We compete only for the investor involvment, but other than that – it could not be compared. If we did have it, it would actually make some aspects of our business a lot easier. For example, when telling people what we do. If there 34

were other companies operating in the same field, the vast of information would be much extensive than it is now. Also, competitors are a great driving force for us to develop and improve. For growth is driven by progress, and it is not the progress of our own, but also of those around us.

So what is it that “Mintos” does?

Could you describe the process of investing in loans and, most importantly, getting something in return?

The entity of our company is as simple as it gets. There are people with spare means, and then there are those who are in need of money. We sort of bring them together. Investors choose the loans they want to invest in, therefore

Diversification – one can invest their funds in an unlimited types of loans, as the minimum sum of investement is set to 10 euros.

Yield – for the risk of each loan, the yield is calculated as average of 12.5% which is a rather high number.

Flexibility – investment can be as much as you want, and there is the chance for the secondary market. You get back interests per month, and you are able to choose your own term.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Business smart business

the loan could be financed by multiple different investors all around the world; crowd-funding, as we call it.

The minimum sum to invest is 10 euros, so the opportunities are vast. The investor contributes money in one or several loan types, which also sets the term of one’s investment. There are 2 basic aspects to bear in mind when investing: 1. Each month investor is given back the interest, plus the principal amount invested.

2. If one wishes to withdraw their investment, there is a chance to sell them at the secondary market, where other investors can buy out your investment. A lot of people use it, the market is currently quite liquid.

And it is the fastest way to acces your funds, depending on the price you set in the market.

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Is there such thing as a risky or safe loan?

Not really, what you can do with each loan is to plan your strategy. Our goal is to offer a vast and diversified loan spectre, for the investor to make a comprehensive choice. If you invest in a loan with property lien, it will be much safer, although the yield might not be as big. If, however, you invest in a loan without any guarantees, the risk is a bit higher, however the return might be even larger.

That is why we once again advise to diversify the investments as much as possible. If you invest 10 euros in different loans, the gain might be huge.

Risk is dissipated and the yield is more prospective.

Currently, there are 6 different loan types you can invest in*: •

Secured Car Loans

•

Invoice Financing

•

Business Loans

•

Personal Loans

•

Agricultural Loans

•

Home Purchase Loans *The loans listed on the “Mintos” marketplace are of 14 loan originators based in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Denmark, Georgia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Business smart business What are your personal thoughts on how much of an impact technology has on modern-day business?

I think we have stepped into another side where if you encounter a business without technologies, it is surprising, whereas just a while ago it was vice versa. And we are heading to a place where real world and non-reality may be undistinguishable. And if we do put everything on paper, we see how everything we’ve done is because of technology.

What are your future prospects?

Future plans for the company not so much in numbers, but more in expanding the business?

We have set a vision we would want to go through. It is a market via which loans will be financed from all around the world,

where no geographical limits are set. We also want to develop and improve both investors and loan originators, and of course – to improve the product itself. A plan to implement in the nearest future is to provide investments in various currencies, as our investors come from different parts of the world.

Let’s talk about the team – the main factor and driving-force in any kind of start-up. What is the role of a team for you?

Team really is significant, and I spend most of the time to help my team to do their job even better. We invest time in resources. Currently there are 21 people in our team, which to be honest, is quite a small number for the amount of work we do. And the team is basically divided into categories of technologies and business.

Every member of our team is important for us to strive further – if any one of us leaves, that would make a critical hole into our work. I consider our team as curious, always striving for deeper sense of knowledge and development. We are people who desire to build something that the world needs.

And I think a major part of a successful team at “Mintos” is the fact that we provide an international work right here in Latvia. And I don’t mean just the Baltics, or even Europe. It is much more extensive than that. Therefore, ambitions can be satisfied and less people are tempted to leave Latvia. And thus we prove that form Latvia you CAN build an international company. We have all the possibilities in the world, and people should not underestimate the vast opportunities Latvia can offer.

CFO & Co-Founder Mārtiņš Valters and CEO & Co-Founder Mārtiņš Šulte

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Styling Week Fashion smart smart fashion fashion

Riga fashion week

Text by Elga Homitska, Olga Deņisenko (Elga Homitska Image House), Photos by Mark Litvyakov

The 25th anniversary of Riga Fashion Week has come to an end. A variety of collections were represented by Latvian brands, as well as designers from Estonia, Italy and the United Kingdom.

Bulichev

May such a day come when military forms exist only in fashion. Bulichev brand collection, presented for the public in a night club, will be long remembered afterwards. Numerous embroideries, paillettes and prints gave the classical military uniform a peaceful and even a bit ironic sound to it.

Julia Sardikova

Designer Julia Sardikova in the new collection “After Blue” presented a new brand concept – M-Couture.

The combination of colors of pink powder and deep dark green unites the romantic mood with elements of retro glamour. Velvet, silk, leather, lace, multilayered outfits have given the collection a note of Bohemia.

Lazy Francis

The new collection Lazy Francis «Sagittarius А* - Guest from the Future» is devoted to the Milky Way. Little people from the future appeared on the podium with antennas on their heads, which affected by the terrestrial attraction dropped down in the shape of thin braids over their shoulders. The special “guests” arrived from the planets far away and immediately stepped down from their spaceships into their places, even not managing to take off the extra-terrestrial headwear.

Overall, the collection was divided into 2 lines – rigorous black-and-white fusions, and combination of bright drawings and pastel tones.

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Photo by Arkady Gluhih

Katya Shehurina

An Ode to tenderness and romance. Laced and flowy dresses of Katya Shehurina continue to allure the hearts of women. esses for special occasions possess a celebratory notion with tender pastel tones, band-collars and playful bells and whistles.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Styling Fashion Week smart fashion

Bound together

The new collection of Paviljons holds a referential title - “Bond”. Numerous belts and garters, handcuffs and bonding jumpers loosely tied around the waistline – all of it directly symbolizing the title.

The collection is rich of details attracting anyone’s attention: zippers, cutouts, contrasting material fusions, and asymmetric fits.

Without gender borders

The urban street style designed by One Wolf has already been recognized before. Collection “The Ghost City” of unisex style is dominated with grey tones and oversize.

The Baltic Aspiration from Deeply Personal

Light and airy summer collection reminds one of the light sea breeze.

Just as a sip of fresh air, the light natural colors fuse with denim.

The easy and playful ruffles on tops resemble sea waves.

Dresses, pinafores, skirts of cotton Oxford clothed straps brilliantly adjoins to the summer promenades adjoin the Baltic seaside.

21st Century Lolita from Narciss

Modern girls – Lolitas – took over the podium during the Narciss show. The controversial combination of nostalgic romance and athletic elements looks quite harmonious and feminine.

The majority of light and flowy fabrics lace and silk, as well as leather patterns makes the collection saturated and versatile.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Federica Tosi

Energetic and emotional – that is the woman we saw during the Federica Tosi show. The Italian brand presented elegant and feminine image. Accessories in the form of belts fastened to the neck added the zest.

Dynamic elements of urban style fuse with light and glance fabrics, and will match a selfconfident city woman.

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Styling Week Fashion smart smart fashion fashion

QooQoo

This year, the young and restless brand of QooQoo has impressed the fashionistas of Riga with brand new prints – embroideries “Love pain”, “Love hardcore”, “Discover your secret potential”. Clothing for courageous and creative people, attempting to show their individuality and nonconformity. The collection is dominated with jeans, shirts of nonstandard fit and numerous embroideries.

ANNA LED

Dace Bahman

Unique fusion of the minimalistic Scandinavian style and femininity is offered by the brand ANNA LED. Bright color accents are emphasized on the mild, subdue background. Key of the collection was the dragonfly print.

Do not Enter

On the 10th show of Nolo collection we found ourselves in the port of restrictions, border signs and safety rules, and the entrance was only valid with pass. The mild color palette of the collection brings out the numerous details – large functional pockets, multiple strings and belts, major asymmetries. Elements of the laconic working uniform successfully combine with the linen and even classical style, thus creating a style of urban chic. Bold presentation of the collection shows us the reality of modern world – only the strongest survive.

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In the new collection by designer Dace Bahman athletic and romantic entwine into one. Light and flowy band-collars and Victorian sleeve puffs combine with athletic leggings and sneakers. Items are furnished with embroidered yielding lines, thus appearing as an excellent trait of the brand.

Flying Motions

Widely known and respected designer Natalija Jansone presented her summer collection as if just passed down from an expensive yacht out of French Riviera docks.

Natural fabrics in subdued color palette bring out the lightness of the items, and the laconic cuts – sophistication.

Ivo Nikkolo

A conservative collection with a modern input. Coats and jackets slipped down the shoulders, asymmetrically buttoned down waistcoats give the items a new look.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

IEPĒRCIES TIEŠSAISTĒ SHOP ONLINE RIIJA.LV

Test Drive smart car

One Step Ahead Photos by Alexey Sosnovsky

We met in a grey and rainy morning. It was quite gloomy, the snow had started to melt to the ground but then – a beautiful black car arrived shining with bright LED lights, a new and impressive front grill and looking like a high-class vehicle of this year. And so it is - KIA Optima 2016. A car that will make only the best impression when arriving at someone’s door. Provided by our partners at Mitau Auto with a mark of 7-year KIA warranty, and tested and reviewed by the one and only car expert Zigmārs Vestfāls, this car managed to brighten our day in a luxurious manner.

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Test Drive smart car

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Test Drive smart car

Swift and Dynamic

This model holds 1.7 diesel, which is a bit noisy to be honest. However, when comparing it to earlier models, one can witness that KIA has done a ton of work in the sound isolation department. And when acquiring the technical description of the model, this sound is nothing short of what expected, if not even better.

Gasoline 2.0 engine will be also available.

As already expected from this car, not too much pressure and we have already accelerated to 60km/h. And the automatic transmission shows a crisp shift and quick response. Especially in Sport Mode. In fact, it’s one of the best

dual-clutch transmissions I’ve driven. Most drivers probably won’t even notice that it’s not a standard automatic.

I do feel a bit of bumps when crossing road pits. The front air suspension is regulated automatically, depending on the surface of the road, as well as the speed. When we step up a bit, dynamics start to appear.

The car readily absorbs rough pavement and stays composed after you drive over big bumps or highway dips.

Model

1.7 TX 7DCT ISG

Engine

1.7 CRDi AT

Engine Displacement (cm3)

1685

Power (kw/rev/min)

104/ 4000

Torsional Moment (Nm/rev/min)

340/ 1750-2500

Gearbox Automatic Fuel Diesel

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Average Fuel Consumption

4.4

CO2 emission (g/km)

116

Emission Regulation

Euro-6

Max Speed (km/h)

203

Acceleration 0-100km/h (s)

11,0

Basic Weight (kg)

1530

Fuel Tank (l)

70

Baggage Compartment Size (l)

510

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Test Drive smart car

The Korean Passat

I would dare to say that right now we are sitting in a Korean Passat. In a good equipped Korean Passat, I might add. First impressions when just sitting down and exiting the first street – nothing but positive. The car seems large and important, thus not meant for those who are looking for a road rave. This car promises safe and very comfortable driving.

KIA has seriously thought out the interior detailing – highquality leather, practical buttons around, and the feeling resembles a bit of the one when sitting in a German car. And no wonder, as KIA has

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developed their sales volumes in Europe by doing the one logical thing – adapting to the demanding Europeans. Although we are quite passive, we will still think twice about where our money goes.

And in this case, to choose between a badly equipped Passat or a wonderfully furnished KIA as this – it is needless to state where our money will go. Moreover, KIA have yet again proven themselves to be capable of high and luxurious quality.

I also read some reviews, few German ones for that matter. And you know what, they all seem perfectly satisfied with this product – as they say, good value for less money. And that is the exact concept that has helped KIA to successfully enter the European market. And KIA wants more.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Mitau Motors car dealer’s shop is the first authorized representative of the KIA brand located just outside of Riga. The range of offered cars varies from small sports cars to large family vehicles. And quite recently, it has added Citroen dealership to the team, thus offering a comprehensive information on both brands.

Mitau also offers a range of car services, including provision of original spare parts and car accessories for KIA and Citroen.

Numerous car exhibitions, helpful service and consultations of competent specialists – fundamental values for Mitau Motors team, just to help you to make the most valuable decision on your future car.

More information: www.mitaumotors.lv Visit: Atmodas Street 19, Jelgava, LV-3007 Call: +371 63011223 or +371 20275100 Write: info@mitaumotors.lv SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Test Drive smart car

Necessities of the 21st Century Aluminium pedals resemble the sports versions. I personally would desire a bit larger engine, however, this model is not too slow, that’s for sure. The GT model who owns these features is just a bit more expensive than this, moreover, the interior elements, as well as the outside view does change a bit.

The base model car already offers a wide selection of equipment, a nice change from the bare minimum other companies offer. Heated seats, ventilation, as well as rear heating. In short, KIA offers more for less money. And wait a minute, the navigation system as basic standard option, have you seen it in other midsized cars?

Seats seem ergonomic and comfortable, and as all Koreans do – it also has the heated steering wheel. I really do not

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know a lot of Koreans who do not add this amazing extra anymore. Only a minute has passed, and the wheel seems nicely heated.

Built in the panel, we see an 8-inch display, although the standard is usually 7 inches. It works fast and responsive enough, which nowadays is a demanding option. I have had situations with brand new models when the navigation system lags for a second. And that is more than enough to miss the right exit on the fastpaced highways. The navigation system is also capable of reading road signs, which is a great way (although not a guarantee) to avoid speeding tickets.

Also on the panel – the visible Harman Kardon title is the one thing that might give pleasure to any music lovers.

The model has also included sensors

for the so called blind spots, as well as pedestrian mode – the car senses pedestrians even from quite a distance, which may seem alarming at times.

And when you switch all these sensors together with the adaptive cruise control and rode-line reader – the car practically goes by itself. Also, the 360 degrees camera for more advanced safety.

Finally, someone has thought about passengers in the back as well – a lot of space for legs, and even a USB charger and electrical charger to substitute the already old-fashioned screens on the backside of the front seats. Now children (or adults) can watch their iPads with no battery troubles.

The panoramic roof windows are nice elements, thus making the space seem even bigger, although it is already quite large, especially in the back.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

TOP 5 smart food

This is not a classical guide for a foody to follow Text by Liene Eglīte Publicity photos

when going out. This is a list of the most interesting – and we really do mean interesting – food-serving places around the world. Haven’t been there yet? We believe that the waiting-list for these stretches years and years ahead, so choose the one you want to see and book the ticket now!

#5 Tokyo. Cat Café Nekorobi

Although cat cafes are quite hype right now, none of them can compare to the one in Tokyo. The whole premises are dimly lit, yet cosy, while surrounded by cute felines skipping and trotting around. A drink dispenser of a vast variety of hot and cold drinks, as well as instant soups will await every visitor, and better yet if you visit during the evening. Then you are sure to witness the dinnertime ritual when cats are gathered for a feast from glass food bowls arranged in a circle around a bright floor lamp. The view is exquisite. Now we just wait for the very first dog café to open...

#4 The Maldives. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant

Snacking and dining 16 feet below the sea level – how’s that for an extraordinary date? The restaurant is surrounded by glass, allowing you to see every single thing happening under the waters of Laccadive Sea. Opened in 2005, this restaurant serves a variety of foods, although let’s be honest – no one really comes here for food. Nevertheless, Ithaa (meaning ‘mother of pearl’) serves European cuisine in a 6-course set dinner menu. This restaurant has also been known for its excellent offer of sea-food; however we are not quite sure about eating something you might be looking at in the same time.

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TOP 5 smart food

Just believe us - blurring out the main course was a brilliant decision

#3 Taiwan. Modern Toilet

We strongly suggest this institution for the strong-gutted, as the humour of this concept is quite peculiar. The toilet seats are located in front of the tables where food in toilet-shaped dishes is served.

Initially serving only chocolate ice cream (think about the view), the owners quite quickly stepped on the next level by offering fullfledged toilet-themed menu. And the funniest thing about it – origins.

“It all started when one of us was reading the manga, Dr. Slump on the toilet – and the rest is history,” is how the owners have decided to explain the brains behind the operation.

#2 Captiva Island. The Bubble Room

1930 through 1940 – what a turbulent time that was.

Both good and bad happened during those years, however “The Bubble Room” has decided to keep only the good and the best. Its origins run already from 1979, when it was a one-room diner decorated with classic toys from the 30’s and 40’s. However, it currently has grown into a multi-storeyed, as well as multi-themed restaurant with the staff referred to as “bubble scouts”.

Christmas atmosphere seems as the dominating one, as the presence of Santa Clause, elves and Christmas lights is all around. And to enhance the old-time feeling even more – time-related music, posters and photographs of iconic movie scenes ad stars, bright colours of pastel – all of it making one dizzy and caught up in these beautiful times.

#1 New York City. Ninja New York

Ninja fans, gather all! Espionage, sabotage, infiltration, assassination and guerrilla warfare – all in an authentically-designed 15th century Japanese feudal village in the form of a restaurant. Receive greetings and bows from warrior waiters, witness the tricks of martial arts and all the while – enjoy an incredible sushi and sake. Just watch your plates as ninjas might quickly jump over them or kick an imaginary villain right beside your table.

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Literature smart books

“It is what you read when you don’t have to that determines what you will be when you can’t help it.”

Oscar Wilde

AFTER WE COLLIDED by Anna Todd A sequel to the world’s best-selling novel “After” tells the aftermaths of the rocky beginning, whilst Tessa and Hardin try to create a normal relationship. Even though the girl knows of his cruel nature, it still turns as a shock when she finds out about the true beginning of their relationship, and Hardin’s past. Is he the deep, sensitive guy Tessa fell in love with, even despite his anger and mocking, or … a cold-hearted stranger? Tessa wants to leave, however it is not as easy. She remembers the passionate nights, touches and kisses.

And she risks it all once again… Hardin knows he has made a mistake, probably – the worst mistake of his life, however he is not going to give up. But can he change? Does he want to change in the name of love?

CAKES IN SPACE by Philipp Reeve Something for the little audiences as well, for we have found one the most colourful and exciting pieces of children literature. Astra and her parents go on a space trip to a planet called Nova Mundi, which is supposed to be their new home.

However, the space ship gets attacked by …wild cakes – deadly cupcakes, evil roulettes, awful apple cakes. It is up to Astra and her robot friend Pilbeam to stop these creatures before their ship has been destroyed. After all, it is us people who should be eating the cakes, and not the other way around…

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Literature smart books THE SPY by Paolo Coelho Mata Hari arrived in Paris without any money on her hands, but soon enough she became one of the most elegant women in the city. Dancer who shocked and amazed viewers, as a credible person and courtesan who charmed the time’s richest and most influential people. However, her lifestyle amidst the war-impacted country created doubts. She was arrested and accused of being a spy. It is a story about a woman who had endured to break the conventional traditions, and thus – payed a horrifying price.

THE DECEPTION by Charlotte Link Peter Simmons seems as a successful businessman and an attentive husband and father. However, he suddenly goes missing during his trip to Provence. When his wife goes to France, desperate to find out about the circumstances, she not only meets strange contradictions, but also finds out that Peter has not been the man she thought. And the truth is closely connected to deadly dangers. The story is psychological tension, full of trust, disappointment, love and betrayal. Nothing is what it seems, and one can never really know who is a friend, and who is an enemy.

THE HANGAMAN’S DAUGHTER AND THE DARK MONK by Oliver Potzsch Schongau, 1660. Priest of St. Lorenz church has been poisoned.

With his last breath, he managed to leave a note, indicating on an ancient Templar graveyard in the church’s crypt. The Hangman Jacob Kuisl, his daughter Magdalen and doctor Simmons start up the search for the legendary Templar treasure, however they are not alone. A group of highwayman and the scary dark monk follow their footsteps… It’s a historical novel, keeping its readers on the edge of their seats while taking them through a frightful and exciting life of the 17th century. The period when punishment was the utmost, and sickness meant death. However, through these times of despair, the author has given a glimpse of hope and confidence, his protagonists being relatable and heroic.

THE CIRCLE by Dave Eggers When May Holland has been hired at one of the world’s greatest internet companies, she thinks that a unique possibility has been granted, and nothing or no one could make her think differently. She starts drifting away from her reality, avoiding the company’s pretensions against her private life, and then she meets a colleague. Soon enough, a story about a young woman’s ambitions and idealisms turns into an exciting and thrilling novel that asks us so many questions on communication and information, private and public, democracy, history and limits of human knowledge. This book allows one to see that everything published on the internet will be available forever. Privacy cannot be protected, and one must always be aware of the consequences whilst surfing the public world of internet.

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Kids

S D I K Thee plane!

OONN Th smart travel

Text by Māra Miķelsone Publicity photos

Denzel Washington might have had a faulty engine to deal with, while Samuel L. Jackson had the hard time of fighting snakes on a plane. Courageous? Not really, because none of them had children to entertain while flying. And all parents know the somewhat exciting challenges of taking your kid along to a long-awaited vacation.

Don’t get us wrong – kids are our future and they are just amazing human beings! But it’s important to know how to treat these amazing creatures in such special circumstances as flying and holidaying. Therefore, we provide the best tips to bear in mind while enjoying your flight with a child on your hands. Keep in mind – it takes a lot of preparation, however, a happy child is always worth it!

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Kids smart travel

Before the flight

Although the variety of our tips is vast, we acknowledge that every single child is different. Our humble tips are just for informative purposes, and we hope that some of them will help you to improve the quality of your trip as a parent.”

• The night before the flight spend some time crafting pack all the toys into different types of wrapping paper. If necessary, you can even wrap each pencil, and believe you us – it’ll make the kid so excited and busy, he won’t even notice the plane landing. Little Christmas for everyone.

• Audio story books accompanied with large, puffy earphones will let your child avoid the very loud sounds of airplane and keep them focused on the exciting story told. Moreover, get one of those audio books you can record by yourself – that will make the child feel so much better.

• Dress your child as comfortable and easy as possible – with that we mean clothing that can be taken off quite easily in case of little emergencies.

• Finger puppets are a nice way to tell a fairy-tale before a nap on the plane. To supplement an even nicer atmosphere, bring your kid’s comfy blanket or pillow to make him feel at home.

• Both portable DVD players and tablets will work good enough, just be sure to download all sorts of movies and TV series your kid loves.

• Make your own yummy snacks wrapped in even yummier paper, however keep in mind – DO NOT use sugar too much as we all know how the excess of that might go.

• If flying longer distances, check if your flight offers the pre-

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order service. In that way, you will avoid the unpleasant situations of running out of the food your child will desperately want at the exact moment.

It’s not necessary to purchase those super-expensive bags full of toys and other supplements the store could think of – we all know that there is this big black box full of toys your child never plays with anymore. Give the toys a second chance, put them in a fun bag and bring them along as the hand baggage of your little companion.

Avoid any loud toys because we do not want to make all other passengers annoyed. Instead, choose toys that vary in their material and colour, thus becoming a very attractive toy for any kid, and also a nice thing to take pictures with all the way through the holidays.

When you reach the staircase to the airplane, just fold and leave the stroller right beside, as it will be taken care of in the nick of time. After the flight, you will find the stroller right where you left it – just in a different country. However, always check before the flight, as sometimes the stroller is delivered all the way to the baggage claim. If that’s the case – you can always order a babytrolley which will help to carry both the child and hand baggage wherever necessary.

Just two words – wet wipes.

During the flight • If you have a hard time teaching your kid to buckle up, let the cabin crew assist – they will be more than happy to show an individualized tutorial for the little audiences as well.

• For safety reasons, it is always best to sit your child in the window-seat. However, we have never seen a child protesting the window-seat, as after all – it is the best place to sit on a plane.

• Always keep a colouring book and a pencil set in your hand baggage. It’ll work even better if you just print out all of the kid’s favourite cartoon characters, and staple them together in a nice DIY colouring book.

• If you’re dealing with toddlers, always remember that trays in front of the seats DO NOT serve as changing tables. Just ask the cabin crew for assistance, and they will gladly show you the way to changing tables, as well as assist you with anything else babyrelated.

• Children love to talk so turn it into a work of literature – write down as he dictates the SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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made-up stories and then read them out aloud. It will particularly work best on the way back home, as your kid will have experienced a lot of new and exciting things during the vacation. It will also be a nice trip down the memory lane for yourself as well.

Give your kid a disposable camera along with tasks – for example, tell him to look for a cloud that looks like a monkey and then take a picture of it. That will make him very focused on the task during the flight and vacation. Haven’t got a camera? No worries – drawing things one sees around will bring out an even better artist out of your little munchkin.

During take-off and landing, make sure your kid is chewing or drinking something. Imagine the worst feeling in your ears, and then imagine it even triple as strong – that’s how the kid might perceive it.

If you see other parents on the plane, offer a play-date by changing your seats, and take turns in watching them in between the cabin crew service.

Remember those nice parents that handed out notes and candy to all the passengers, thus warning them about their kid acting out? Do not be afraid to do the same, because at the end of the day – it’s not about what you do, rather than how you do it.

Cabin crew are always happy to chat with the little passengers, as well as help the parents out in case of more turbulent behaviors of their kids. Therefore, let’s return the favor by always carrying a spare bag to put all the trash in during the flight – whether it is for dirty diapers, juice cans or just small pieces of previously wrapped paper.

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Kids smart travel

With love from SmartLynx – what can we offer you?

MAGIC STICKER SET Let the little mind run wild and free, by creating your own collage from fun stickers and pictures.

LOOK AND FIND The task is to find 5 differences in the two seemingly same pictures. See how thorough and accurate can your mind be, and better yet – compete with a passenger sitting right next to you to determine a winner.

MAGIC SQUARE FUN AND MEMORY GAME This game of fun pictures serves as both a puzzle and memory game to keep in check the most curious of minds.

SMARTLYNX AIRCRAFT MODEL Although to be purchased separately, the little airplane model will be a great souvenir for an even greater trip you’re about to have.

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ORDER A MEAL

for your next flight!

Choose a preferable meal from your menu card

1

Ask a flight attendant for an order-coupon

2

Enjoy your meal on your next flight

3

If you are flying from Tallinn, you can also order your meal at: shop.airo.ee/smartlynx

Your Sky-Shop meals are prepared by:

We accept the following credit cards:

Dubai smart travel

What’s up, Dubai?

Text by Gustavs Reinholds Publicity photos

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Dubai smart travel

Considering the increasing number of tourists heading straight to Dubai, we have decided to look up www.visitdubai.com and summarize all the necessary information for every SmartLynx passenger planning to resort in the most beloved scenery of the Middle East. Keep in mind – these are just some of the vast selections this vibrant city offers. Once there, it will be challenging not to get lost in the lushes of many beautiful tourist attractions.

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Dubai smart travel

Motiongate at Dubai Parks & Resorts

Dubai with Family

Travelling with family, as a tourist group or just the two of you? No worries, as we have listed the website’s most popular places-to-be, neatly categorized for every visitor status. Choose the one most applicable to you, and be ready for a vacation of an unforgettable Arabic experience.

inspired by such films as Ghostbusters, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and so many more memorable animation and action movies. Consisting of five zones, the park is dedicated to various Hollywood’s film studios, for example, Dreamworks, Lionsgate and Sony Pictures.

IMG WORLDS OF ADVENTURE

LEGOLAND DUBAI

It has been calculated for this park to have been built out of mere 60 million plastic Lego bricks. Divided into six areas, such as Lego City or the Middle East themes Miniland, this family park invites kids and adults of all ages, also including numerous rides and thousands of Lego MOTIONGATE AT DUBAI PARKS & models to view. Moreover, this park is RESORTS This theme park, being of 28 football fields of size, is a park categorized in four zones, one of them dedicated entirely to dinosaurs. Rest of the rides are mostly themed around Marvel comics and Cartoon Network.

also about education and teamwork, as many attractions ask for children’s skills for steering a boat, driving a car or other practical fun.

BOLLYWOOD PARKS DUBAI This park is dedicated for none other than the colorful and vibrant culture of India’s film industry – Bollywood. Cinematic rides, live shows, Indian cuisine and so many more to offer. The flagship of this park is considered the Rajmahal Theatre which gathers up to 850 people for each show, performed in a both Broadway and Bollywood musical manner, making one’s feet move along the rhythmic music of Indian culture.

This is a Hollywood-inspired adventure land and holds the total of 27 rides

Bollywood Parks Dubai

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Incoming and outgoing tourism in Latvia for individuals, small/medium-sized groups, and mee�ng industry

We offer tours in Riga and Latvia, as well as seminars and conferences, and we offer tailor-made individual tourist programs. We provide a full package of travel services for FITs, groups, and corporate clients.

We offer accommoda�on in the Bal�cs; we will help you find the most suitable conferences, seminars, exhibi�ons and other special events, as well as provide transporta�on, transfers and technical equipment – anything you might need. We cooperate with the best tour operators in Latvia, and we offer a wide range of excursion programs in Latvia and Riga! Welcome to Latvia!

Travel agency SKYLINE TRAVEL in Riga coopera�ng with the following tour operators: offering charter flights from RIGA, VILNIUS and TALLIN to: • Turkey, • Greece, • Bulgaria, • Croa�a, • Cyprus, • Tunisia, • Portugal, • Mallorca, • Canary Islands, • Egypt, • Dubai, • Austria

And many others, including the exo�c countries.

Skolas street 4, Riga, Latvia +37120034715, www.skylinetravel.lv

Dubai smart travel

Dubai with Lovebirds TALISE OTTOMAN SPA

ANJANA SPA

Considered as the Middle East’s biggest steam room, this place holds up dozens of treatment and relaxation rooms, at the centre of which you will see the traditional Turkish hammam. This spa will call for at least half a day to explore, after which a beautiful terrace of Al Nafoorah will await with a selection of refined food and drinks.

An experience not to forget – that is what this spa promises for its every visitor.

Swimming pools, saunas, even an ice fountain and, of course, the very popular Turkish Hammam ritual – all of it created in a peaceful atmosphere, helping you to make the most out of your vacation.

ONE & ONLY SPA

According to prices, one can choose between six various hammam options, starting from Moroccan Hammam and ending with the Luxe Imperial Ritual.

Because of the selection, anyone can afford a thorough treatment at these beautifully tiled rooms, with the most attentive staff to follow.

As promised by the website, this spa is a secret favorite of both local and international celebrities, offering various group or individual treatments. Ceiling is decorated with a bright mosaic stained glass, and the whole spa is surrounded by beautiful garden grounds, thus sort of hidden away from a public eye.

SARAY SPA

Abeer Al Yaseen Beauty Spa

This spa is located within the world’s tallest hotel, providing the most luxurious treatments one can get. Also called as the Saray Golden Hammam, this place will treat you with golden Arabian honey facial masks or a massage that uses 24-carat gold-infused oil.

TIPS & TOES

AL ASALLA SPA A Moroccan-inspired spa, this place will adapt to anyone’s individual needs, treating you to the last muscle. You will never feel as relaxed, as Al Asalla Spa holds the most professional and attentive care of anyone visiting.

ABEER AL YASEEN BEAUTY SPA This spa is well known for its guest majority being female, as here you can enjoy a private marble-topped bathing slabs, as well as traditional rituals of steam, cleanse and scrub. Just like in a scenic movie, therapists will stand at ready with brass jugs in their hands to wash away all the dead skin with a pouring warm water.

One & Only Spa

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Dubai smart travel

Dubai with Tourists BURJ KHALIFA

THE DESERT

Being more than 800 metres high, the world’s tallest tower is by all means the skyline of Dubai. Anyone can visit the tower, where an observation deck awaits on level 124, providing a breath-taking view on the city of Dubai.

Just outside the vibrant city of Dubai, one can visit the marvelous Arabian Desert which is considered as the original tourist attraction of Dubai. There are various means of transport offered, such as dune bashing, quad biking or sandboarding, any of which followed by traditional barbeques, henna and camel rides.

THE DUBAI MALL Everyone has heard of the famous Dubai Mall, full of more than 1200 shops to discover and being one of the most beautiful malls around the world. Many people assure that not even a day is enough to explore this place, where even an indoor theme park, waterfall, fountain and aquarium are held altogether.

PALM JUMEIRAH This island has been made in the shape of a palm tree, and is one of the largest artificial islands in the world. The island provides numerous hotels and resorts, enjoyed both by locals and tourists. As one of the “trunks” conjoins the island to the mainland, the island is simply approachable.

AL FAHIDI This historical neighbourhood is one of the oldest ones in Dubai, and offers a window to a “bygone era with traditional wind towers and a maze of winding alleyways.” One can even be a part of Arabic classes, heritage tour and mosque visits if heading to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.

DUBAI CREEK Considered as the heart of the city, Dubai Creek holds an actual historical meaning, where Bani Yas tribe supposedly settled and maintained Dubai’s once significant means of economy – pearl diving and fishing. One can also find the Dubai Museum where all the history of the Emirate has been collected.

Palm Jumeirah

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The Desert

Burj Khalifa

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Dubai smart travel If the previously-listed attractions are just a bit too much for you, take a deep breath and approach the vacation plan rationally, to be exact, according to the dates you are planning to arrive. This small, yet comprehensive guide will help you to decide what is worth seeing while you explore the wonderful city of Dubai. Not your dates? Visit the website that offers so many more events throughout the winter season. For us to include them all – that would call for a separate magazine.

DECEMBER 7 – 10, DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

DECEMBER 7 – 14, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

DECEMBER 26 – JANUARY 28, DUBAI

This is already the 21st edition of Dubai International Jewelry Week, exhibiting numerous exclusive jewelry designs, as well as elegant collections from around the world. This is one of the best places to purchase the one and only piece for your wedding, birthday or any kind of gift, as the things you’ll see here will rarely be showcased anywhere else. From fresh diamond collections to even antiques, here you will discover a vast collection of nice things.

Both Arab and international cinema is celebrated on this prestigious event, gathering movie-people from not only Dubai, but also Hollywood and even Bollywood. Exclusive screenings and elite parties is what DIFF promises for anyone attending, all wrapped in a VIPstyle event. It is said that such stars as George Clooney, Morgan Freeman, Cate Blanchett, Tom Cruise, and so many more have once attended the festival.

So be sure to apply for Gold, Platinum or Royal packages and experience the goods each of it can offer at Dubai’s most exclusive party.

This is ought to be the 22nd anniversary of the Dubai Shopping Festival, and as usual – it is considered as the largest shopping extravaganza in the Middle East. Because of being so long, it already holds Guinness World Records, accommodates celebrity performances and, of course, fireworks. Be sure to participate in competitions of DSF where you can win such prizes as cash or even a car.

Dubai International Jewelry Week

Dubai International Film Festival 2016

Dubai Shopping Festival 2017

NOVEMBER 14 – FEBRUARY 13, BURJ KHALIFA

Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style

What you will see on this exhibition will bring back all the memories about the life of James Bond. Starting from Scaramanga’s Golden Gun from “The Man with the Golden Gun”, continuing with Daniel Craig’s blue swimming trunks from “Casino Royale”, and ending with the classical Aston Martin DB10 from “Spectre”. As the exhibition page explains, “this exhibition is a collaboration between the Barbican and EON Productions.

Curated by the Barbican, guest-curated by fashion historian Bronwyn Cosgrave and Oscar-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming and designed by Ab Rogers who had unprecedented access to EON Production’s archive.”

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Dubai smart travel DECEMBER 1, DUBAI

UAE’s National Day

This year United Arab Emirates celebrate 45th National Day Anniversary, full of exciting concerts and festive activities.

Emirate artists gather around Dubai – Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates, City Walk, The Beach and City Centre Mirdif – and create performances, one more incredible than the other. Arabian music by traditional bands, National Day cheers and the National Day Carnival will fulfill the streets of Dubai. And as any National Day may call for, amazing fireworks at The Beach conclude the significant day. And this year, Dubai offers to spend the night by raving at the Dubai World Trade Centre with none other than the international star DJ Tiesto.

JANUARY 12 – 14, DUBAI AUTODROME

Hankook 24H Dubai 2017

This is for all racing enthusiasts to witness a 24-hour endurance race, drivers competing against time and each other, the aim being to survive throughout the race. This being already the 12th series, the race includes a variety of cars eligible to compete. The race has been adapted for the participants to not change cars during the race, so that it could be more cost-effective.

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Welcoming the New Year Text by Māra Miķelsone Publicity photos

New Year’s smart celebration

Sadly, the ancient Babylonians didn’t have cameras with them. So here is our improvisation on how a New Year’s party would’ve looked like 4 thousand years ago.

Down the historical path

The earliest recording of celebration in honor of the arrival of a certain new year dates back about 4 thousand years ago during the existence of ancient Babylon.

Babylonians are also believed to have started the currently-popular resolution making as for them it was making promises to the gods to pay their debts and return anything they had borrowed. A lot has changed since then, as nowadays we make promises to our friends and ourselves to throw away our bad habits SmartLynx | Winter 2016

and start up something new and exciting.

But let’s return to the Babylonian New Year’s. It was approximately during late March when amount of sunlight and darkness was of equal length, and a religious festival Akitu was held. The festival took upon 11 days, each of which involved a different ritual. The essence of them, however, was to crown a new king or just to reaffirm their loyalty to the existing one.

Later on, when the well-known Julius

Caesar came in the picture and decided to make some changes in the calendar system, January 1 was established to be the official beginning of a new year. And, to dig a bit deeper, January itself was established as the name of a month, titled such after Janus – the two-faced god whose spirit inhabited beginnings, gates, transitions, time, doorways, passages and endings. Thus, symbolically looking both backwards and onwards, the month of January was supposed to do the same.

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New Year’s smart celebration

JAN

28

New Year in China

APR

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Year New hala n in Si

SEP

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Timing differences around the world Although the generally recognized New Year’s date is set according to the Gregorian calendar, as of December 31 through January 1, there are still major nations that do the celebration according to their own timing.

China has decided to follow the Lunar calendar – a calendar based on cycles of the lunar phases. It is also supposed to be an exact opposite of the solar calendar, i.e., the Gregorian. Therefore, the dates of the also-known Yuan Tan can occur sometime between mid-January and mid-February, and this year it’s going to fall right on Saturday, January 28. When a new year and month has started, a celebration of 10 to even 15 days begins.

Some of the traditions during this 15-day long extravaganza include family dinners, putting food and red lanterns for avoiding the mythical beast Nian, watching the Lion and Dragon dances, exchanging money in red envelopes, and so many other traditions to be witnessed.

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Ne in E w Yea thio r pia

Sinhalese new year is celebrated even further off – mid-April, this year falling on April 13. Widely known as Aluth Avurudda, this celebration takes place when the sun supposedly moves from Meena Rashiya (Pisces) to Mesha Rashiya (Aries), also marking the end of harvest and spring. What is interesting is that even the timing does not coincide with the traditional midnight celebrations.

End of the old year and beginning of the new year is apart from each other by several hours, the standard timing set as 12 hours and 48 minutes. This is the time when the sun starts to cross the astrological boundary from Meena to Mesha. The halfway point is considered as the neutral period or Nonagathe, and during this time Sri Lankans are supposed to refrain from any material deeds, only engaging in traditional or religious activities. Cleaning of the house, playing Raban drums, eating morsels, bathing in herbs are just a few

of the many traditions the people of Sri Lanka engage in when celebrating their new year.

However, the most off-beat new year is celebrated in Ethiopia – Enkutatash is accorded to the Ethiopian calendar, and is celebrated on September 11 (September 12 during a leap year). Why so late? Well, this calendar they follow is based on the orthodox Julian Calendar divided into equal parts of 12 months into 30 days each. This Enkutatash (also the “gift of jewels”) is traditionally associated with the end of rain season, as well as the return of the biblical Queen of Sheba to Ethiopia after her visit to King Solomon.

The customs maintained during the celebration include lighting of torches, singing traditional rhymes, dressing in Ethiopian robes, drinking of the Ethiopian beer Tella, and congratulating one another with flower bouquets.

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New Year’s smart celebration

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New Year’s smart celebration

Happy New Year!

Arabic

Kul ‘am wa antum bikhair

Chinese (Cantonese)

Sun nien fai lok

Chinese (Mandarin)

Xin nian yu kuai

Estonian

Head uut aastat

Finnish

Onnellista uutta vuotta

French

Bonne année

German Greek

Ein glückliches neues Jahr Eutychismenos o kainourgios chronos

Indonesian (Bahasa) Italian

Selamat Tahun Baru

Felice Anno Nuovo or Buon anno

Japanese Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu Latvian Lithuanian

Laimīgu Jauno gadu Laimingų Naujųjų metų

Philippines (Tagalog) Manigong Bagong Taon Russian

S novim godom

Spanish

Feliz año nuevo

Thai Vietnamese

Crime Bureau ascertains that most vehicle are stolen during the New Year’s. Thieves do not celebrate and work all night long, so amidst the celebration – remember to secure the belongings out of your sight.

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Sawatdee Pi Mai Chuc mung nam moi

Where to celebrate NY ’17?

AUSTRALIA will make your eyes pop out, as the spectacular light parade down the Sydney Harbour is held right before an amazing firework display.

It can be enjoyed with a view from the lushes of the Royal Botanic Gardens or in the elegance of the Opera House.

How about witnessing one of the most legendary FIREWORKS IN THE LONDON EYE, as each year surpasses the previous one with unbelievable sights to see? South Bank and Victoria Embankment are supposed to have the best view to watch the fireworks over Thames, so take your place and wait for an amazement to happen.

Maybe New Year’s on a classic vacation spot seems more appealing?

Go to the SMALLEST OF FOUR BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS – Jost Van Dyke, and get ready for not only the

New Year’s eve, but also the next two days, as the celebration of Jost Van Dyke does not stop right at the midnight strike.

In PARIS you will celebrate St. Sylvestre, and bear in mind – celebration actually continues throughout the whole month of January. Also, when standing next to the Eiffel Tower and ready to pop champagne, remember that you are in France – do not mix champagne with sparkling white wine. Spend a little on a genuine French champagne and witness the magical fireworks of Paris.

And then there is the classics of the classes – NEW YORK CITY. Jazz, lights and vibrant people surround the Big Apple daily, however this one day it is enhanced double. See the legendary ball drop in one the craziest, yet most fun places in the world – Times Square, as this venue during the celebration will never leave your memory.

Food plays a major role, as it is the one to bring prosperity for the next year. For example, beans and greens symbolize the materialistic goods, whilst noodles are supposed to bring long life.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Astrology smart predictions

Did you know that this is going to be the year of Rooster?

Although Chinese tell us that the year of one’s birth sign should be the unluckiest for the person, we do not believe that.

Because Roosters are ought to be committed and hardworking people who will take note of everything happening around. Yes, they are considered to be quite lucky by default but it does not mean they don’t work for it. Like for many

people, Roosters are the happiest whilst among their family. Sometimes they do seem do brag a lot about their success, so Rooster – keep in mind – do not brag too much as your year has come. Some might find it a bit annoying at times.

Nevertheless, with their good career and health fortune, Roosters are ought to spend a wonderful year to come.

ARIES

GEMINI

Oh, what fun you will be seeing this year!

This will be the time to use your superb social skills and love for company. Many good opportunities will come your way, and in that confident head of yours – do not forget to seize them! The stars advise to spend a great deal of time with your family, as you build up the ladder of professional career – so the balance between those two should be obtained. And remember to prioritize, as focused and strategic attention to your goals is the key to success. After all, Aries always believe in being on the top of the world.

Destination of 2017: Ras Al Khaimah

Anyone who calls Gemini a two-faced person is just jealous. Jealous of their excellent sense of right and wrong, and being amazing thinkers in crisis situations. Keep up with your social skills, and continue to develop the personal ones, because a true Gemini never stops at anything. It is all efforts for you guys, with just a pinch of luck.

However, do not exaggerate on the intensity, and remember to spend some of your precious time with your family – they will value it. This year promises both love and materialistic goods, and has not forgotten about the qualities of travel. So get your suitcases ready, as this is going to be an active year.

Destination of 2017: Fuerteventura

TAURUS Always honest and friendly towards close ones, as well as helpful and caring towards literally everyone. However, do not let anyone to take advantage of your endless helpfulness, as it can be perceived as a sign of weakness by some. Being down to earth and cautious, you will pave an excellent way towards simple, yet great plans ahead of you. And everyone knows that when Taurus is up to something – no one will change his mind. Be persistent as you always are, and never let the cautious nature go.

Destination of 2017: Turin

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CANCER You, guys, tend to be doubtful and self-conscious, however you are rarely seen as such from other’s point of view. Although prone to getting emotionally hurt, you are seen as the best partners for, well – anything. Always ready to hear out your friends, as well as being excellent advice givers, the Cancerians are restless, energetic and most importantly – wonderful friends.

However, be careful of the protectiveness you own, as it might lead to a few misunderstandings amongst your family. Be patient, yet persistent – as that will help you

achieve great things this year, especially in the professional life. And most important – stop looking back in the past, as this is the year to move on and to do so quite swiftly, because adventures will await you.

Destination of 2017: Lanzarote

LEO The kings of jungle, is what everyone calls you. And right they are, because a true Leo will act like one – strong, self-confident, yet patient and rational. The leader-like traits will lead you even further down to achieving amazing success. The kind and big-hearted nature will make your friends and family to be happy being next to such a strong and lovable person. However, sometimes you do seem to get in those big heads too much, thus not being able to listen properly. Be mindful and do not let your passion run wild free, instead – focus on aiming your energy onto professional, as well as creative development. And although being independent, let someone help you a bit. It is not as much for you, as it is for the person right beside you.

Destination of 2017: Dubai

VIRGO Highly intellectual, perfectionists and prone to details – you might as well be

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Astrology smart predictions called Sherlock Holmes. No wonder Virgos operate only when being in control, thus explaining so many directors being right of this star sign. You are practical and witty, yet stop on the critical and fussy traits a bit. Be in touch with your loved ones, and always tell them the truth. Good news will come this year so hold on to the happiness received, and remember to give it back.

And not even needed to mention, success is all about Virgo of 2017, whether it is in love or professional life.

Destination of 2017: Bergamo

LIBRA Being ever so balanced and in harmony, there is no way to throw you off the rails. So keep on doing what you do the best – think without borders, keep your great manners and improve on those excellent communication skills. And we all know the flirtatious nature of Libra, so be ready to find a true love this year, whatever form it might take.

You need everything around you beautiful and clean, yet simple. Therefore, there is never a problem to have a Libra as a lifelong partner. However, you sometimes do think a bit too much, always seeing all sides of any situation. That is why making up your mind about something is also quite a challenge. But this year will ask for quicker decision-making, so be ready to act fast. And never doubt yourself, as hard as it may be sometimes.

Destination of 2017: Madeira

however, as your craziness in the past might haunt you down this year. It will let you learn the easiness of mind, and maybe even implement some peace and calm into your heads. But don’t lose your determination, as it might be critical when encountering a 2017-promised obstacle. High, yet breakable by such a brave spirit as a Scorpio. And remember that passion is good when not mixed in everything.

Destination of 2017: Tenerife

AQUARIUS

SAGITTARIUS Those thirsty-for-knowledge people always on a spiritual move are the ones from the sign of Sagittarius. Always witty and even philosophical at times, you are prone to exploring and adventures, even if it means spending a week in the library pursuing the history of some fascinating period of time. However, this also means that you are more than ready take on risks, so please be careful. This year will not let you off the hook for being too thoughtless, so think your actions through. 2017 also promises a brand new experience, so be mindful of where it comes from – it might burn you a bit.

Destination of 2017: Salzburg

Crazy Scorpios, they say! And not for nothing – you really do seem to grasp every moment life grants you. And you know what, not a bad thing at all! The restless temptation towards adventures will never leave your side, and the energetic nature will rarely leave you bored. Be cautious,

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Rebels is what you actually are, Aquarius!

But where’s the fun in life without a little rebellion, to be honest? Always in touch with your strong personality and curious nature.

Just think about where you put this determination towards. Be it great causes, and everyone will benefit from that. And lower down your sense of independency and prominence a bit, and let someone be in front of you for a while. Learn to accept, as challenging situations might come your way this year. And careful of being too unpredictable – as charming and fun it might be, it will stir up some dirt amongst your friends.

Destination of 2017: Hurghada

PISCES

CAPRICORN

SCORPIO

ly make you think rationally, and put your mindset at ease. Turn your ambitions into something more creative, as this year will be all about transformation.

Destination of 2017: Geneva

These signs are widely-known for their practicality and acceptance. Anything that may come – you will deal with it like no one can. You will always appreciate the people who help you, therefore being a true friend for anyone you chose to partner up with.

But this coin has other side as well – you always remember the ones who did you wrong. And sometimes being prone to retaliating, you might get a bit lost. However, remember where you come from and what sign you possess – that will immediate-

The creative minds of Pisces might run so far and wild that no one could catch up.

But that just means that anyone in contact with you will have a great time. You never regret or think too much about past, yet always are mindful when encountering more sensitive situations. Pisces have an excellent trait of acting according to the situation. Even if feeling bad, they will keep up their appearances for the sake of others.

This year stop and think a bit, as the jumping from one towards another thing might seem too excessive. You will encounter upon some significant decisions to make, and bear in mind – sometimes it is ok to put your own needs above the other’s.

Destination of 2017: Friedrichshafen

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Adventures smart exploring

Growth through Adventures

The adventure and team building organization “Lūzumpunkts” (literally translated as the “breaking point”) has done it all – climbing along snowy mountains, paddling through fast-paced waters, exploring unknown caves, and so many more adventures to come. Whilst on the grounds of home, these guys have taken up even more challenging activities – team building and personal development trainings through extraordinary conditions, thus teaching teams the skills of cooperation, problem-solving and overcoming obstacles in a place we call teamwork.

Text by Māra Miķelsone Photos by Juris Zīģelis (www.zigelis.lv)

We have sat down with Juris – one of the members of “Lūzumpunkts” to tell us all about the life of an adventure and team building organization that strives to break down the myths, widen the exploratory horizons and at the end of the day – feeling the satisfactory emotions after an exciting adventure.

Origins of our organization start with two of our own – Māris and Inga – who decided to design an organization that would create adventurous trips. Rest of us came from different organizations, we had a lot of experience acquired in different exchange and educational programmes. And we had to use the experience somewhere worthy. We started with Latvia – local trips and adventures, and later re-strategized into a team building organization, specializing in various of sorts of team building

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exercises. That is how we see ourselves focused at now, although keeping up with the origins of our adventure-seeking.

We truly believe that a successful collaboration within a team can be achieved through various activities and methods, so when you approach us – expect brand new and exciting ventures.

But the main aspect to bear in mind beforehand – the right approach for every team. We speak with each client separately to get to know the potential team better. We consider the fields they come from, thus adapting to their standards. For introverts, even the mere learning and training process is an adventure itself. And then there are those who just start to swear each other off, and our task is to show them the benefits of cooperation. Every group is unique and have their own communication

Either you are in need of skis or company, “Lūzumpunkts” provides both. If choosing to participate in group skiing, be ready to explore Latvian forests, meadows bogs and even frozen lakes. Skis they provide are suitable for any off-tracking, as well as a mild cross-country skiing.

styles, and we must find the appropriate approach for each of these groups.

Team development is a very challenging process which is the most effective for the teams that are not too large. Usually we put a limit for 20 people. If there are more, we just divide them into subgroups.

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Adventures smart exploring 80% of the events are cooperation improvement trainings, which we like to call the light team building. More risky ones are those where we create stressinducing situations, the ones that actually test the team. It all comes down to the zone theory – there is the Comfort Zone, which is basically your every day. Stretch Zone is where you balance between the comfortable and new. And, of course, the Panic Zone – when you have been thrown into an extreme situation and you must rely on your instincts without any learning points. Therefore, we create the extreme situations for the teams that are somewhere in-between the Stretch and Panic zones. For example, staying overnight during wintertime.

There have been times when we made igloos to spend the night, however the current winters do not grant us with that opportunity very often.

But overall, HR people tend to choose something lighter instead of psychological challenges. They like to attend simple team building and training events where, after all, everyone gains.

The results for challenging teams may come down to one of the two either you are able to work in a team or you are not. We have had clients where you feel the one distinct leader who will not step down. And at the same time, everyone goes along. He pushes his own opinion, and everyone listens. And that’s how conflicts arise. Then we have had teams full of leaders, one yelling louder than the other. The one who’s louder, becomes the leader. Our job is to teach them the skill of calming down and to listen to each other.

Lately we have noticed an increasing number of companies desiring to step outside the usual team building events and borders. Mostly it’s either Sardinia or Morocco, and in such cases, we just organize a so-called adventure week. And let’s be honest, such events are more memorable than simple parties the aftertaste of which are not as monumental.

There are no language barriers in our activities, as we have organized various

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international events, as well as been joined by a lot of non-Latvian groups during the process of team building.

When the team building season is out, we turn to adventure trips. During wintertime, we are planning to go to Italy and France. These trips are almost full, as people immediately gathered one after another as soon as we announced the trip. Still, you should follow us on Facebook to see all the adventure trips we might go to. Also to keep up with our impromptu events we announce from time to time, for example, watching fireworks from boats, or going on a ski trip to the local forest and amazing moorlands. We never stop moving and exploring.

We compete less, but support more.

In different adventure, orientation and sports competitions, it’s someone from organization participating rather than all of us as a team. We also support the strongest Latvian teams by providing necessary equipment to the

Team building and training activities are categorized in 4 major parts: Activity, where the team is involved in simple activities to acquire common experience and improve relationships.

Activity and flashback provides learning by doing, where you look back and spot the learning points that could teach the team something new. Team building helps spotting a problem in the team and providing a training that will transfer the issues into an effective cooperation. Dream event is where we use all of our experience and tools to provide your team with an unforgettable and adventurous event.

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Adventures smart exploring

In summertime, “Lūzumpunkts” also offers an adventure of a lifetime – kayaking through the very centre of Riga.

Starting at the River Daugava, you will paddle along the Quiet Centre of Riga, then continue through the very heart of Riga City Market and then back to the river Daugava.

If you feel a bit more energetic, try one of the 15-kilometre routes to the old shipyard, afterwards finishing at Mežaparks near the lake Ķīšezers.

championships or trainings. Currently, we save our own energy by supporting professional teams. But when we do have time and will, we participate ourselves. We used to organize sort of

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city hunts, as well as photo orientation and adventure races. We have also made more extreme tasks for smaller groups.

We tend to go to the lands that have been stereotyped. And our main goal is to break these statements and prove once and for all – that you should not judge a place before visiting it.

At the beginning of this year we went to Iran. People were confused about what we would do there. All the opinions about nuclear weapons, unsafety and whatnot.

However, it appeared to be one of the safest countries I’ve ever been to. Iran is a place of culture, history, friendly people. We went to the mountains for snowboarding, so in that area regular tourists were not as many as expected.

Yet we also went outside the snowboarding territories just to meet with the locals. And the experience was fantastic. Everyone was so welcoming

and friendly. We even got invited for a few dinners, both with younger and older generation people.

After all, Europe starts to get too connatural, and all you want to do is to get out somewhere extraordinary.

And this was the right place. We’ve also been to a few other nice places such as Morocco, Kazakhstan, India, Georgia, Turkey, India, Thailand, Indonesia and others. We were climbing mountains, canyons, as well as caves. Went kayaking and cycling, a lot of hiking.

The place offered numerous active rest options, so that you would not get stuck in the comfort zone.

Tomorrow eight of us are going to Israel and Palestine – for rock climbing, canoeing, caving and exploration in general. Of course, the Dead Sea will also be on our way – that’s a place everyone should dip their toes in and experience how it is to be around it - 400m below

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Adventures smart exploring

Everything you need to know about adventures and team building can be found on www.luzumpunkts.lv. Also, do not forget to follow these guys on Facebook as the best adventures come in mind at the very last moment.

sea level. The main idea of this trip is to have it as interesting and active as possible. And it is nice to explore places in the ways you did not think possible.

For example, I had no idea before that there where so many cliffs to climb, so my advice is always to be sure that you have to try everything you’re offered.

We’ve also had several mountain hikes in Nepal, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan, India and Europe as well. We haven’t been to America yet, but first we’ll explore this side of the world, and then move further.

We rarely return to a place, because our aim is to expand.

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Anyone can join us on these trips. We provide the active part of it, and of course – help with other logistics. It is important to us for the people to get acquainted with what we do, as well as to realize it is safe and interesting at the same time.

It is not just a blind adventurism. We offer numerous activities through which to get to know the respective country – cycling through small villages, climbing local caves, hiking and staying overnight in a desert. It is to reaffirm people that being extreme is not bad. It all comes back to the zone theory – the Comfort and Stretch zones, via many new expand and thus, expands, and thus the previously acquired view of something risky just disappears.

My personal element is air thus - rock climbing and mountains, so I focus on snowboarding or rock climbing. For other colleagues it might be water – therefore

Get inspired! To see more breath-taking photos of not only the wonders of nature, but also the wonders of weddings - visit www.zigelis.lv

doing kayaking, surfing and stuff like that. That is why we usually make our trips according to our own passion and then every single activity is focused on the element. However Iran was the first place where all of our team went together.

Maybe that is why the memories are so good about it. Although we did divide into certain subgroups, there were a lot of activities we did together as well. Different circumstances, many challenges and testing fear boundaries – that was fascinating and exciting.

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Styling smart fashion

Glitz and Glam of Club Nights In this stylish season designers live in nostalgia for the 80’s. Many of them have been inspired by the club life of the legendary Studio 54, as well as the eccentric image of David Bowie. Glam rock has become a true hit.

Woman dressed in this style magnetically pulls one into fascination and intrigue. Tight-fitted leather pants, metal, luminescence of rhinestones and paillette – change your wardrobe in confidence. Not to forget the topical trend of Mix&Match – feminine laces and semi-transparent fabric combined with leather and military style.

Exclusively for SmartLynx magazine Style theme: Photographer: Styling: Hair: Make-up: Models:

Glam Rock Natalie Berezina (www.natalieberezina.com) Elga Homitska (www.homitska.com) Svetlana Dubatova / Salons PamPam Aļona Smirnova Oksana (Moon Models) Varvara (FREYJA MODELS) Stylist assistance: Olga Deņisenko, Aleksandra Bobrova, Sanita Puriņa (Elga Homitska Image House)

We want to thank night club «Friends» for the photoshoot venue «Night Club Friends», Elizabetes str 55, Riga, Latvia Hotel «Radisson Blu Latvija» Reservations via phone +371 29 299 444 www.clubfriends.lv

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Styling smart fashion

Skirt Zanete Auzina Taste Latvia Blouse Zanete Auzina Taste Latvia Belt Stradivarius Earrings H&M Studio Fur scarf Nastasya Fey Bag H&M Studio Dress Zanete Auzina Taste Latvia Fur waistcoat ANNA KRUZ Earrings Aldo SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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Leather top H&M Studio Skirt H&M H&M Studio Shoes Stradivarius Earrings Aldo Choker Aldo Bag ANNA KRUZ Jacket Alexandra Westfal (Katana boutique) Trousers H&M Belt Stradivarius Bag ANNA KRUZ Earrings H&M Studio Shoes Aldo 80

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Styling smart fashion Dress Zara Earrings H&M Studio Shoes Zara Bag H&M Studio Belt Stradivarius

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Styling smart fashion

Earrings H&M Studio Jacket Bulichev Jeans Atelier Dress Stradivarius Bracelet, rings Aldo Trousers ANNA KRUZ 82

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Styling smart fashion Dress Stradivarius Tunic Stradivarius Top Stradivarius Bomber jacket Stradivarius Earrings Aldo Bag ANNA KRUZ

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Styling smart fashion

Jacket Bulichev Jeans Atelier Dress Zara Shoes H&M Studio Earrings Aldo Earrings H&M Studio Jacket Bulichev Jeans Atelier Dress Stradivarius Trousers ANNA KRUZ Boots Aldo 84

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Styling smart fashion

Jacket Zara Culottes Narciss Boots Aldo

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Styling smart fashion

Coat Nastasya Fey Trousers Zara Top Zara Shoes H&M Studio Bag ANNA KRUZ Earrings Aldo 86

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Styling smart fashion Jacket Bulichev Jeans Atelier Dress LE RĂŠVE by Xenia V Trousers Zara Earrings Aldo

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Styling smart fashion

Skirt & top Zara Bag ANNA KRUZ Earrings H&M Studio Shoes Aldo 88

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Brand New SmartLynx We are proud to introduce Zygimantas Surintas as the new CEO of SmartLynx Airlines. Experience in his hands, motivation leading every step ahead of his way and he is ready to change our Company for the best!

Read more about Zygimantas, and find out what great transformations will SmartLynx await.

THE BEGINNING Quite a while ago I was working in another type of business sector – commerce, developing commerce projects, not only locally, but also world-wide.

But the life-changing job for me was when working (and still continuing) in the Lithuanian Basketball League. And I would just like to add, that our league is in the top 5 basketball leagues in Europe.

So I met a lot of new people, established

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even more connections. And thus, one of the owners of SmartLynx gave me an offer to join the company and take the CEO position. And what made it even more interesting, he gave me only 12 hours to make a decision. I was always quite close with the aviation and inflight industry, cooperating with various other airlines.

And so I thought it would be interesting and worthy to take up the challenge.

Although the decision was rash, I regret

nothing. I really do love this company and can see a lot of potential for making it even better. I still live in-between Latvia and Lithuania, but lately I cannot wait for Sundays to come for me to fly back to Latvia and continue my work here.

First days in the company were really difficult. I started with looking up all the aviation maintenance and technical terms, as I was and still am more of a commercial guy myself. I gradually

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learned all the basics from maintenance, technical and operation departments, as it was all new to me. And six months have passed, and I believe they have been nothing but success.

“Our new strategy is to make all of the decisions together through an argument approach”

MANAGEMENT IS THE KEY I do believe that we have a professional management team, as my business model has always been to work with the top managers and make all the decisions together. And that is a promise from our company.

And just as in the basketball, I greatly value the importance of team work.

Our new strategy is to make all of the decisions together through an argument approach. Everyone can express their opinion, and those who will manage to lay an argument for their view the best – will be taken into account.

CHANGES ARE ONLY FOR THE BEST When a new management acquired the Company, there was a lot of a talk about changes which scared the existing employees. But in time, we proved that changes do not necessarily mean bad things, as, after taking over the company, exactly 0 people were fired.

Only new positions were added, and we grow every day. Although that leads us to a new challenge – we do not have enough space for all the employees. But we solved that quite fast, because for the next year the expansion of our building will follow.

“If we want the company to grow, we need to do so as well”

TRANSFORMING STRATEGIES One of the fundamental strategies for SmartLynx | Winter 2016

SmartLynx is to have the best local structure, allowing us to successfully compete in the market. For example, by creating even more destination points, cooperating with the leading tour operators of the Baltics. Besides that, it is not only in the local market we strive, but the international as well. In other countries we work as a so called semi-company. We’re not flying directly under SmartLynx colours and logo, but we do provide ACMI services (AircraftCrew-Maintenance-Insurance) – leasing aircrafts and staff for other companies, such as Monarch Airlines (UK), Travel Service (Czech), Thomas Cook Airlines (UK) and many others. So our business is quite wide, and, if we want the Company to grow, we need to do so as well. SmartLynx Airlines has no limits.

“It is important to have the best talents on board of the company”

TALENTS AND IMAGE For me it is also important to have the best talents on board of the Company. I want to get the best talents in the aviation industry from Latvia and then – the world.

What we offer is trust and good working conditions, and in return we want to feel the engagement of the employee to this company. It is as simple as that.

We are also focusing on improving the service level, both in the local and international market. That includes changing the visual image of aircrafts and staff uniforms as well, transformations in colours and shapes yet to come.

NEW PILOTS AND NEW AIRCRAFTS Lately we have noticed the issue of pilot shortage in aviation industry. That is why we have signed a contract with the Baltic Aviation Academy for a brand new project – cadet programme. Thus, SmartLynx will start to work with younggeneration pilots, offering each of them a guarantee letter which will ensure a job at SmartLynx after graduating. Soon enough we will also work on scholarship grants, as we all know how expensive

aviation industry can get.

Currently the Company owns 13 aircrafts.

In 2017 it is planned to increase the number to 15 and in 2018 – 18 aircrafts in total.

WHAT HAS CHANGED ALREADY First of all, we have taken the marketing and advertising, and public relations of the company to a new level. We want wider audiences to know about SmartLynx, as well as its professional service.

We have also reviewed a lot of aspects of contracts, currently integrating the savings policy for our employees. Thus we will ensure that savings do not necessarily mean a lower salary, quite opposite really, as our main goal in this field is to increase staff wages. By this we want to make our cost structure as one of the best in Europe if we wish to stay and compete in this business.

We have also made a lot of changes in the technical department, as our priority of the whole company is and will be safety.

And I could not stress that enough. For example, November was the maintenance month for all of the SmartLynx aircrafts, as they are inspected and checked by the best maintenance organizations.

“Our Cabin Crew really is the best in Europe”

THE BEST CABIN CREW IN EUROPE Our Cabin Crew really is the best in Europe. They have participated and won in numerous inflight competitions, and there are a lot of airlines we cooperate with just because of the amazing quality of our cabin crew service. When taking upon new staff, we offer our own training centre as well. Even the latest passenger survey has shown the excellent feedback about our staff, making us proud and happy about such employees.

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Love Up in the Air SmartLynx values all of their passengers, each of them being unique and treated as such as well. And sometimes we encounter upon someone truly special, in this case – two someones. Riho and Kadri Helena Rõõmus – a couple who met on board the SmartLynx aircraft, fell in love and got married. The lucky man himself – Riho – tells us more about how destiny (or any other higher power one believes in) brought him together with the love of his life.

“Our story started on October 18, 2011 when I was heading to my holiday flight with SmartLynx Airlines from Tallinn to Spain. Already at the airport I noticed a beautiful lady who was traveling together with her daughter. Lucky for me, she took

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the same flight as I did, and moreover they were members of the same tourist group as me. I didn’t know her yet but something told me that it would be just a matter of time.

Shortly after take-off, all of the passengers

sitting in their places, I noticed that the place next to the beautiful lady was available. I took up my courage, went to her and introduced myself. Her name was Kadri Helena. And as soon as we met, approximately ten kilometers above

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the ground, it was clear to me that she is the one and that she is the person I have been looking for all my life. During all the trip, I did not want to stay a step behind, just wanted to be together with her. And luckily again, we were staying at the same hotel. And when headed back to Tallinn, I asked her out on a date.

We both had reached this point in our lives when we needed a so called restart.

Therefore, a mutual realization that we want to be and stay together came rather quickly.

Everything what happened, and most importantly – how it happened - was a big surprise for both of us – how we met, how we felt and how we decided to stay together. We believe that it was destiny, because we were so different in our life paths, as well as in the career lives we led at that time - I am a musician working in the music industry, and she, on the other hand, works in medicine.

We got engaged and shortly after that were married on October 18, 2013. This year, on our third anniversary, we were back on board of SmartLynx aircraft to fly to Malta. Meanwhile, our friends together with the crew had prepared a real surprise. Suddenly a stewardess announced: “Today we have a happy couple on board - Riho and Kadri Helena - who met each other on this very same plane 5 years ago, and today they are celebrating their third wedding anniversary!”

What emotions those were! We got flowers, champagne, chocolate and loads of good wishes. We were genuinely surprised, as it was so much fun to share our happiness with all the other SmartLynx passengers. It all left an unforgettable impression on us.

Today, after three years of marriage, we still think back to the very first time we met and contemplating the thought “what if we were not on that plane…” So it has happened like in a romantic Hollywood movie - falling in love up in the sky. As Kadri Helena continuously affirms: “Our life and love is like the one of a movie!”

In the end, love at every age can be as romantic as in the movies, and I believe it could happen to any one of you, and even 10,000 meters high in the air.

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“It was clear to me that she is the one and that she is the person I have been looking for all my life”

*We also have another great experience with SmartLynx to share. The two of us flew to Turkey on our holidays. I read a book that I had rented from the local library just before our trip. It just so happened that I forgot my book on the plane. Coming back to Tallinn I bought a new book and took it to the library with apologies, but the librarian informed

me that SmartLynx Airlines had already returned the forgotten book. What a nice surprise that was! SmartLynx service really is worth something.

“I didn’t know her yet but something told me that it would be just a matter of time”

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MARTLYNX PASSENGERS ABOUT OUR SERVICE Recently we made a questionnaire for our passengers to find out once and for all – how do they like SmartLynx? In total, 1200 Estonians filled it in, and thanks to the responsiveness, we will have an excellent material to work with for continuing to improve our service quality.

When asked about the cabin crew, majority of respondents assured that SmartLynx staff is friendly and helpful, evaluating these features as 9.6 out of 10.

Isn’t that an excellent mark? And the 0.4 – well, that’s a healthy place for growth, isn’t it? People were also quite satisfied with the appearance of our staff and so are we – the uniforms have been well-thoughout, always of great quality and most importantly – comfortable for the staff. We also believe that the smiles count as well, for our cabin crew proves to be one of the happiest among the inflight world.

Our crew has taken part into various inflight competitions, such as the Inflight Sales Person of the Year (ISPY) or Amber Sky 2015, acquiring a handful of awards for that matter. And that also shows, as the respondents have evaluated our crew’s knowledge of products with 9.5 in total. And it was even nicer to see the comments left at the end of the survey, as most of the respondents thanked SmartLynx crew for the memorable service – and we will take the chance to thank you – passengers – for being so

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great with us in return!

It seems that we ought to be working on the improvement of our product and food assortment, as a vast part of the respondents has noted to be in a need of a larger product spectre on board.

Remember – Sky Shop catalogue holds numerous products to be purchased for every taste, and we do strive to extend the catalogue pages to an even more extensive selection. In terms of food, some also suggested more fruits and vegetables, as well as to provide more options for children. Noted!

We can also be quite proud of the cleanliness of our aircrafts, as it is one of SmartLynx’s priorities to provide the passengers with not only an excellent service, but a pleasant and clean environment as well. And did you know that on the SmartLynx aircraft there is a personalized USB port for charging your device under your seat? 59% of you did know that, for the rest 41% - now you know!

Pre-ordering meals is a great chance provided for the most of our flights,

although only 20% of the respondents have actually used it. We would like to remind you that pre-ordering meals will be a safe guarantee that the food you will want on board will not run out, as it is prepared especially for you. And best of all – you will not have to wait while the trolley reaches your seat, as at the appropriate moment – the meal will be served separately. Some also suggested big-sized sandwiches, as well as sandwiches made of the Estonian rye bread. We agree, the rye bread really is of unique and wonderful taste. And for the ones who suggested more sweets and candies, we suspect the little passengers to be behind that. If not, we’ll work on that any way and meanwhile – remember that airports are usually loaded with candy you will not find anywhere else.

Thank you once again for providing SmartLynx with a feedback, as it is a significant aspect to bear in mind when ensuring a service of quality. And tune in for the next questionnaire responded

by Latvians on SmartLynx spring issue!

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Food & Shopping

1200 PASSENGERS

Cabin Crew

ON

SMARTLYNX FOOD & DRINKS QUALITY FOOD & DRINKS ASSORTMENT

8.6 10 8.1 10

PASSENGERS PRE-ORDERED MEALS

20%

SKY SHOP ASSORTMENT

7.9 10

Coming soon FRUITS

VEGETABLES

CABIN CREW FRIENDLINESS AND HELPFULNESS

9.6 10

CABIN CREW KNOWLEDGE OF PRODUCTS FROM MENU

9.5 10

CABIN CREW APPEARANCE

9.6 10

Check-in staff

MORE OPTIONS FOR CHILDREN

HELPFULNESS

Cleanliness

8.6 10

Comments Nice crew, 5 stars I am satisfied with your service It was a nice flight!

Nice service!

CABIN TOILET FACILITIES

9.2 10 8.9 10

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Comfortable to fly, good service!

Thank you!

THANK YOU! Very helpful and friednly crew, good service Keep up the good work!

Good day!

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SmartLynx Comfortable Before the flight

It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the departure time. That allows you on time make the check in, give away your luggage and go trough security procedures.

Always bring a valid travel document, i.e.: Passport (international flights, outside the EU); Passport or national ID card (flights within the EU) If you encounter a problem at the airport contact airport representative for assistance and information, they are glad to help you.

BAGGAGE On SmartLynx flights, a passenger is allowed to check in one unit of baggage that weights up to 20kg on our flights not more than 4 hours and up to 15 kg on flights exceeding 4 hours flight time. Travelling with family or with friends, you can also pack your belongings into one bag, but please note that one unit may not exceed 32kg!

The standard checked baggage size is 32x84x56cm.

All baggage exceeding these measurements is considered as non-standard baggage (bicycle, golf bags, surfing and skiing equipment) and you have to always inform your Tour Operator first, if you are planning to bring some non-standard equipment with you, as special conditions may apply.

CABIN BAGGAGE The acceptable cabin or carry-on baggage size is 55x45x25cm (5kg). Cabin baggage must be stowed under the seat in front or in the overhead compartment. The measurements are restricted to ensure that overhead compartment is not overloaded and the aisle is not obstructed.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN Children who have not reached his/her 2nd birthday are considered as infants and they are traveling without personally dedicated seat. Separate seat for infant can be purchased from your Tour Operator. SmartLynx does not provide car-type baby seats but passenger may use their own, provided that the seat can be secured with the aircraft seat belt. Child under the age of 5 years must be accompanied by a person not younger than 16 years of age who is capable of taking care of the minor during the journey: a parent or guardian or a person assigned by these. Children aged 5-11 (incl) and traveling unaccompanied have to use escorting service on airport. The request must be placed at the time of booking the trip. Children aged 12-15 may travel alone.

The cabin crew will do their utmost to make everyone feel as comfortable and welcome as possible during the flight. If you are traveling with young children, just ask if you need any milk or infant meals to be heated. Baby -changing facilities are available on all our aircraft-just ask your crew for the location nearest to your seat.

TRAVELING WITH PETS Carriage of pets is a special service that has to be prebooked via your Tour Operator. Special conditions may apply. The passenger is responsible for securing proper documentation for health, entry and transfer for all countries an route and providing a suitable container to ensure safe and comfortable transport of the pet. The only pets accepted in the cabin (except guide dogs) are dogs and cats on the following conditions: the pet must be clean; the container must be leakage proof and not weight 8 kg together with the pet. A passenger may carry only one container and the pet must be kept in the container throughout the whole flight.

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SmartLynx | Winter 2016

Travel Tips During the flight SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Hopefully, we already know about your special requirements, such as wheelchair assistance or dietary request. If not, and this is an outbound flight, please advise a member cabin crew so they can make appropriate arrangements for your return journey.

ALCOHOL Alcohol should be consumed only in moderation. Drinking your own alcohol, including alcohol you have been purchased from tax free shop at airport, is strictly forbidden. Passengers may only consume alcoholic drinks served by the crew. Please note, that crew can evaluate the situation and refuse to serve alcoholic drinks without any further explanation at any time.

SMOKING In line with international policy, all SmartLynx flights are non-smoking. It is an offence to smoke on board and it is forbidden also in lavatories. We ask you to refine from smoking for the comfort and safety of passengers and crew.

SLEEP AND SEATBELTS If you´re planning to sleep during the flight, we recommend you fasten your seatbelt so the cabin crew don’t have to wake you should the Captain need to turn on the “fasten seatbelt” sign. We recommend that you keep your seatbelt fastened at all times while seated.

ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT To use of radios and devices with radio transmitter/receivers is strictly prohibited during the flight, as it may interfere with the aircraft´s navigation system. Mobile telephones, with the exception of those with a “flight safe” mode, should be switched off at all times on board the aircraft. Phones with a “flight safe” mode should have this activated before you switch your mobile phone off for take-off.

Personal CD, DVD and MP3 players may be used, but only when the seatbelt sign is switched off.

Wireless devices such as PDA-s laptop computers, electronic games and E-readers may only be used on board if the wireless function is disabled and again, may only be used while the seatbelt sign is off.

FOR YOUR HEALTH To feel your best in the air remember: Alcohol: Alcohol should be consumed only in moderation. For each glass of alcohol, drink two glasses of water.

Water: Please make sure that you are drinking enough water during your flight. Doctors are recommending to drink at least 0,5-0,6 l water every two flight hours.

Clothes: Baggy clothes are best in the air. Try not to wear any tight – fitting clothes, loosen top buttons, belts and shoelaces and remove tight socks.

Circulation: Circulation of blood is helped if you try not to cross your legs or ankles for long periods of time. Elastic support socks or stockings may help. From time to time it is good to stand up and make a little walk or make some exercises. Remember that even the smallest movements help with blood circulations, so you can also do some stretching while seated.

SmartLynx | Winter 2016

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People can fly! People must fly!

OUR HIGHLIGHTS:

AIRBUS TO – APPROVED BY REGULATORS | TYPE RATING, CONVERSION, DIFFERENCES TRAININGS, SIMULATOR PROVISION, BASE TRAINING | STUDENT CARE AND WELFARE

SmartLynx ATO is a leading approved airline pilot training company within Baltic States. Supported by one of the most experienced teams of Training Captains and Instructors we provide the Type Rating courses for Airbus A320 series.

SmartLynx ATO offers the most comprehensive, applied, ground training available today. Our core philosophy is to equip graduates with the aviation and commercial knowledge needed for today’s professional environment.

Our ground school courses include manuals full support (CBT programs, DVD, hard copies of books) and classroom tuition with practical and applied learning – visiting the aircraft or in the simulator. The course manuals, written by pilots for pilots, are the most up to date on the market and make the theory simple.

The Base Training is included in the package of SmartLynx Type Rating program.

“MAZRUDAS”, Marupe municipality, LV-2167, Latvia Tel: +371-67207741 | Fax: +371-67207750 | e-mail: info@smartlynx.aero | www.smartlynx.aero