FASHION&TRENDS
16 Shopaholic Furry Coat
There is nothing that can make you feel warmer in this cold weather than a fur coat. Designers like Michael Kors and Lanvin packed their winter collection with fuzzy coats that feel comfy as much as they look. All of these pieces have a certain 70’s flare to the glorious days of fashion. For a carnival extravagant look, go for Max Mara yet, to keep it simple as well as elegant Stella McCartney nailed the trend.
BEAUTY
18 Beauty Buzz
The latest & newest beauty products & news you need to know.
YOU, LOVE&LIFE
20 Relationships
8 Signs You’re With The Right Partner
Being with someone can be a confusing experience, when you are unsure about where to start. It’s rare for everyone to meet the right person the first time they jump into a relationship, and it’s always going to be a trial and error process. This Valentine’s Lounge brings you 8 signs you are with the right partner.
ENTERTAINMENT
22 Cover Story
Maya Nassar The Middle East Fitness Star Being fit is what we all aspire to especially when it means being healthy. If the role model we look up to is a mother of two, it sends a message that motherhood and having fabulous abs is a dream that could come true. This month Lounge brought you all the way from Lebanon fitness guru, International fitness model champion and owner of Start Living Right Gym Maya Nassar. The half Lebanese half Dutch fitness entrepreneur reveals all about the secrets behind her fabulous body and shares some of her fitness hacks.
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26 Lookout
Amr Abed A One Man Show
An actor, writer and director..seems that the young Egyptian talent has a lot in his plate. Lounge talks to the multi-talented Amr Abed about being a judge in Alexandria Short Film Festival, his role in ‘Demagh Shetan’ and the second sequel of ‘Awkaat Faragh.’
30 Star
Kristen Stewart In Underwater
Seven miles beneath the surface of the ocean, something has awakened. And in the new horror thriller ‘Underwater,’ it’ll threaten the lives of everyone aboard the Kepler mining rig. When the station is compromised, Norah Price (Kristen Stewart) and a group of fellow survivors must make it to their only hope. This issue, Kristen Stewart talks about the trials and tribulations of complicated, heavy pressure suits, how she bonded with her cast mates and what made her decide to star in the film to begin with.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
34 Health Desk
The latest & newest health & fitness news you need to know.
OUT & ABOUT
36 Hotspot
Where to Go This Valentine’s Day in Egypt
Candles, chocolates, flowers and a good meal; that’s how we celebrate Valentine’s Day. This year, make this occasion a special one and check out the top places, where you can spend a lovely day and make it a memorable night..Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!
EVERY ISSUE
6 Chairman’s Letter 8 Editor’s Letter 10 In The Know
Everything you need to know to be in the know, from celebrity to entertainment news to what’s in style, Lounge keeps you fully updated.
46 Horoscope
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AQUARIUS
48 Well Said
5 SIGNS YOU’RE ENJOYING YOUR SINGLEHOOD
A lot of people tend to prefer singlehood for so many different reasons, let it be a broken heart from a previous relationship, a traumatic experience or just for the freedom and the fun of it. This Valentine’s Lounge brings you 5 signs that help you realize where you stand in relation of that.
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Chairman’s Letter In this Valentine’s issue of Lounge, we brought you all the way from Lebanon fitness guru, international fitness model champion and owner of Start Living Right Gym Maya Nassar who talks about the secrets behind her fabulous body, her husband’s support, and shares with us some of her fitness hacks. As for our Entertainment section, Kristen Stewart talks about her latest movie ‘Underwater.’ As for our Lookout this month, Egyptian young actor Amr Abed talks about his latest movie ‘Demagh Shetan’ and reveals all about the second sequal of the box office hit ‘Awkat Faragh.’ For this Valentine’s, we celebrate it with our readers by bringing you 8 signs you are with the right partner, and last but not least, don’t miss Lounge’s ultimate guide for the best Valentine’s Day evening in Egypt. However, if you are single and you enjoy it, our Well Said brings you signs on whether you are enjoying your singlehood for the right reasons or not. All that plus so much more, enjoy the issue and happy Valentine’s Day.
CHAIRMAN Ahmed Helal EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sherif Ibrahim EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Amira Tharwat GENERAL MANAGER Khaled Ashraf Hegazi SENIOR EDITOR Reem El Shennawi WRITER Yara El Hashimi MARKETING & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Ikram Zaki
ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR Amr A. El-Hawary GRAPHIC DESIGNER Bassam El Naggar ACCOUNT MANAGER Mohamed Arafa OFFICE MANAGER Mariam Khalid SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER Sameh El Mansy DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Mohamed Anis Ashraf Tolba DISTRIBUTION Charisma International All rights reserved to Lounge. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. PRINTING International Printing House To subscribe or advertise, please contact our offices at: 16 Nehro St. 1st Floor Heliopolis, Cairo - Egypt 0101 722 9911 0112 228 8866 02 245 333 55 lounge_magazine lounge magazine
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LOUNGE’S COVER: MAYA NASSAR
EDITOR’S
letter STEPPING DOWN FOR LOVE The decision that Prince Harry and wife Megan Markle made to step down as senior members of the royal family and move to live in Canada took the world by storm. The reason behind this brave step is the fact that Prince Harry feels he and his wife are not feeling comfortable or living a quiet life, which made it stressful, and he fears that what happened to his late mother Princess Diana might take its course with his wife; the thing he doesn’t want to happen. “A weight has been lifted off their shoulders” as friends to the rebellious couple reported after taking this decision. Aside from it being a royal crisis that we wouldn’t dare comparing our relationship issues with, I still find it quite inspiring. What would the consequences be if we ask our significant other to give up his Prince title or stepping down from the throne because we don’t feel comfortable with the surroundings and the fancy and pressuring details of the royal life?! I wonder could he willingly do that without even asking just because his partner might not feel comfortable about it?! Could you dare asking for this in the name of love? Or would he do something big like that for love? Your
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designer
significant other might not be Prince Harry and doesn’t have a throne to give up to make you feel better or be happier, but taking the kids to a walk to let you sleep that extra hour in a weekend, willingly pick up your parents from Heliopolis to 6th of October and back just because you don’t feel comfortable to let them drive all this distance on their own at this old age, and trying to find an extra job or working extra hours with a bigger salary to provide you with the luxury you want and the standard of living you look up to even if it is going to be on the expense of his comfort and health are all gestures proving that you are with the right partner, and if he was a Prince, he might give it all up for your happiness. Love is not the poetic phrases and lyrics we hear on the radio, love is action. It is a practice that you only can evaluate when life throws its worse at you. When you have a health crisis or when you pretty much have nothing just make sure you picked the right partner. Happy Valentine’s Day and don’t forget to check our Relationships section, where we brought you 8 signs you are with the right partner page 20.
Amira Tharwat
LOUNGE
in the know
Sean Penn Makes Rare Appearance with Old Girlfriend Leila George Sean Penn, 59, rarely makes public appearances with his girlfriend 27-yearold Leila George, but the couple made an exception for Sean’s CORE gala in Los Angeles on Jan. 15, where they shared some sweet PDA moments, according to multiple outlets. Sean and Leila reportedly look “very much in love” four years after they were first linked as a couple. Sean Penn, 59, and Leila George, 27, look ‘very much in love’ 4 years into their relationship.
Céline Dion Dedicates Moving Tribute to Mom Thérèse: ‘I’ll Sing To You With All My Heart’
Céline Dion is mourning the loss of her mother, Thérèse Tanguay-Dion. Known affectionately known as “Maman Dion,” the Canadian television personality died after being ill for some time at the age of 92. Dion, who’s currently on her Courage World Tour, dedicated her Miami concert to her mother and opened up about Thérèse’s final moments during a moving tribute. “We got a call from the nurses who were taking care of her so well, saying that her time was coming soon,” Dion recalled. “I joined my brothers and sisters in Montreal and I spent the evening at her bedside.”
Prince Harry & Duchess Meghan Dismiss Staff Amid Step Back from Royal Family
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan have let go their royal staffers amid their plans to “step back” and “become financially independent” from the British royal family. The move to dismiss their staff come as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to work out the logistics of their exit, which they announced on January 8 via Instagram. At the time, the couple stated that their decision to “transition” and “carve out a progressive new role” for themselves came after “many months of reflection and internal discussions.” Harry recently met with the 93-year-old queen, Prince Charles and Prince William to discuss the British Army vet’s future with his family outside of his lineage.
In the know... Celebrity
Brad Pitt Credits Bradley Cooper for Helping Him Get Sober in Touching Speech
Rihanna Splits from Billionaire Boyfriend Hassan Jameel
Looks like Rihanna may be back on the market! Multiple outlets report that the 31-year-old singer has called it quits from her billionaire boyfriend, Hassan Jameel, after nearly 3 years of dating. Seeing as Rihanna hasn’t released an album since 2016’s Anti, fans have been desperately awaiting an announcement from the Barbados native. Naturally, RiRi’s Army reacted to the split news by poking fun at the fact that Jameel “probably got tired of waiting for the album too.” “See what happens when you don’t release an album,” one fan wrote, with another adding, “Alright queen. Now is the time, drop the album. 2020!!!”
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Brad Pitt won Best Supporting Actor at the National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala. Presenting him the honour was his good pal, Bradley Cooper. After giving his fellow Brad a hug on the gala’s stage, the Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood star gushed over his friend, revealing to the applauding crowd that the A Star Is Born actor helped him get sober. “I got sober because of this guy,” the 56-yearold actor continued. “And every day’s been happier ever since.” Then, giving the 45-year-old star a big thumbs up, Pitt said, “I love you, and I thank you.” This marks one of the rare moments Pitt has publicly talked about his sobriety, and his first mention that Cooper helped him on that front.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Begins Training For Black Adam
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has finally, officially begun training for Black Adam. The actor revealed on Instagram that he’s finally getting started on the longgestating project along with an epic animated video on Instagram that showed him as the mythic DC Comics character, a.k.a. Shazam’s biggest enemy. Johnson also credited Australian artist BossLogic (a.k.a. Kode A) and graphic designer Veli Okulan for creating the “bad ass animation” that essentially serves as the concept art of what Black Adam could look like in the live-action movie.
CBS Gives Series Commitment to Silence of The Lambs Spin-Off
‘Frozen 2’ is Now the Highest-Grossing Animated Movie Ever The sequel has generated $1.325 billion at the global box office, pushing past ‘Frozen’ ($1.281 million) and ‘Incredibles 2’ ($1.243 million) to secure the top spot. Though Jon Favreau’s remake of ‘The Lion King’ is entirely computer generated and earned $1.65 billion in 2019, Disney considers it a live-action reboot rather than an animated flick. Either way, the benchmark only solidifies Disney’s place as the preeminent force on all things animation, the studio is now responsible for the top three biggest cartooned movie of all time.
In the know... Entertainment
CBS has given a series commitment to Clarice, a new drama written and executive produced by Alex Kurtzman and Jenny Lumet. The action takes place in 1993, a year after the events of The Silence of the Lambs. The series will delve in Clarice’s personal “as she returns to the field to pursue serial murderers and sexual predators while navigating the high stakes political world of Washington, D.C.,” according to CBS. No casting news has been announced. “After more than 20 years of silence, we’re privileged to give voice to one of America’s most enduring heroes: Clarice Starling,” according to a joint statement from Kurtzman and Lumt. “Clarice’s bravery and complexity have always lit the way, even as her personal story remained in the dark. But hers is the very story we need today: her struggle, her resilience, her victory. Her time is now, and always.”
After forgoing a host for the 2019 Oscars, the 2020 Oscars ceremony is going hostless once again. “Together with the Academy we have decided there will be no traditional host again this year, repeating what worked for us last year: huge entertainment value, big musical numbers, big comedy, and star power,” ABC President Karey Burke announced at the 2020 Television Critics Assn. press tour in Pasadena, Calif. Last year the Academy Awards had no host for the first time in 30 years after comedian Kevin Hart was originally announced as host, but stepped down after homophobic tweets of his resurfaced, igniting controversy. The 92nd Academy Awards will air Sunday, Feb. 9 on ABC.
Billie Eilish to Perform Title Song for 25th James Bond Film, ‘No Time to Die’
Billie Eilish will join the ranks of Madonna, Wings, Tina Turner and Adele as the latest artist to record a James Bond theme song. She is also the youngest artist in history to do so. The official account for the James Bond franchise announced the song. EIlish co-wrote the track with her brother Finneas for No Time to Die, which is the 25th installment in the long-running series. “It feels crazy to be a part of this in every way,” Grammy nominee Eilish said. “To be able to score the theme song to a film that is part of such a legendary series is a huge honour. James Bond is the coolest film franchise ever to exist. I’m still in shock”
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The Oscars Won’t Have a Host Again for 2020 Ceremony
Home to
Lebanese C u i s i n e
ood from the ‘kitchens of the Levant’ … this definition of Lebanese cuisine does more F than just hint at the traditions behind dishes
that have become a way of life throughout the region. Poultr y, seafood, lamb or goat that are grilled, baked or sautéed, blend with garlic, olive oil and lemon, herbs and spices. Salads, breads, crisp vegetables, lentils, beans and rice also play their part in Lebanese fare.
while keeping the night lively and vibrant. Whether you are with family, friends, or loved ones we guarantee to meet and exceed your expectations.
At the heart of InterContinental Citystars is your home to the finest Lebanese food in Cairo. Modern, vibrant and luxurious; Fayruz brings you the authentic taste of Lebanon straight to your plate. The exquisite décor and setup, both indoors and on the terrace, add up to the culinary finesse introducing you to an exotic dining experience. Fayruz is ideal for friends and family gatherings over great food in a lively and inviting atmosphere. Experience topnotch services, warm hospitality, and the Lebanese extravagance, all under one roof. The rich flavors of the Lebanese cuisine are truly mastered at Fayruz. The extensive menu offers a wide range of Lebanese delicacies; from succulent appetizers and flavorsome salads, to delicious charcoal grills and tantalizing desserts. All the dishes are prepared with premium quality ingredients by the hands of our talented
chef for a refined taste. Besides traditional Lebanese dishes, treat your appetite with delicious chicken and lamb kabsa promotion. Celebrate Love on Valentine’s Day with a Lebanese flair and stimulate your taste buds with a variety of lavish Levantine dishes. To alter your dining experience, a daily entertainment program will add Oriental feels with a live band and a belly dancer. We believe that every aspect from the quality of food, to the world-class service and hospitality, is equally important, and accordingly with a meticulous attention to details, we dedicate our efforts to make your dining experience truly remarkable. Our aim is to place ourselves as the guests’ first choice when it comes to Levantine specialties. Fayruz is ready to welcome guests daily from 1pm – 5pm and for dinner from 7pm – 1am indulging them with set menu and a la carte menu
Let Me Out
Wearing a piece from the Let Me Out collection is a mischievous way to play with seduction and emotions. Inspired by a cage, the curves of each creation suggest the idea of links, attachment and passionate games. Korloff plays with contrasts of pink gold, diamonds and coloured gemstones. Shapes and volumes bring out the carnal and sensual dimension of the rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets.
For Love & Lemons for Victoria’s Secret
Victoria Secret celebrates the beginning of a new year in the latest collection from their favourite LA brand. These statementmaking sparkles, high-impact-hues and divine details are destined to be a hit on your party circuit. It all started with a lemonade stand in Jackson, Wyoming. For Love & Lemons founders Laura Hall & Gillian Rose Kern met when they were both 11 years old, and as little girls do, created a fantasy world for themselves that paved the way for what has become one of fashion’s most dreamy, romantic, recognizable brands.
In the know... Style & Design
Longchamp X D’heygere: An Exceptional Collaboration For 30 Years Of Andam
For this exceptional initiative, Longchamp partnered with Stéphanie d’Heygère, winner of the 2018 ANDAM Accessories Award. For her first foray into fashion, the gifted young designer created an extraordinary hybrid, unisex piece: a belt bag and raincoat inspired by Longchamp’s iconic Le Pliage®. The Longchamp x d’Heygère collaboration will be unveiled at the ANDAM 30th anniversary celebrations on 4 September 2019.
Zenith Chronomaster 2: NewGen El Primero
El Primero is celebrating its 50th anniversary. An opportunity to unveil this cult movement in its modernised version, fitted in the emblematic Chronomaster. The new El Primero lineage is inaugurated with series of 250 titanium models featuring an original ceramic bezel and skeleton dial. Reinterpreted to ensure greater modularity, the El Primero 3600 calibre has been designed using the latest technologies, while preserving the DNA of the original movement.
Tory Burch Fall/Winter Collection
Tory Burch’s FW collection is inspired by Black Mountain College, known for its unconventional approach to education and for shaping the trajectory of modern art in America. This season is a mix-match of revamped classics: floral prints, graphic stripes, menswear materials and romantic silhouettes. There’s a modern eccentricity to raw fringe, exaggerated ruffles, knife pleats, cut-glass jewelry, deconstructed bags and sharp boots.
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FASHION & TRENDS shopaholic
STELLA MCCARTNEY
LANVIN
FURRY COATS
There is nothing that can make you feel warmer in this cold weather than a fur coat. Designers like Michael Kors and Lanvin packed their winter collection with fuzzy coats that feel comfy as much as they look. All of these pieces have a certain 70’s flare to the glorious days of fashion. For a carnival extravagant look, go for Max Mara yet, to keep it simple as well as elegant Stella McCartney nailed the trend.
STAUD
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A MAX MAR
SHRIMPS
MICHAEL
MOCHINO
E
OFF-WHIT
KORS
BEAUTY news
Y T U A E B LOUNGE
buzz YSL ENGRAVING!!
Make it personal. Engrave your YSL lipstick with a custom message. It’s the perfect gift for any occasion, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. Complimentary engraving is available on all YSL lipsticks and mascaras as well as fragrances in 2.3 oz or larger sizes. Engraving is only available on qualified products with a basket total of £50 or more. It is also only available with standard delivery. Check out the website and choose your engraving now.
SPARK & SHINE WITH COLOR WOW
American haircare brand Color WOW has for decades changed the lives of millions of women by solving unmet beauty products with their range of innovative products that solve every issue relating to colour treated hair. Color WOW prides itself on being gluten-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free and free of all toxins with no animal testing.
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KATE SPADE LIVE COLORFULLY
Kate Spade’s Live Colorfully Eau De Parfume spray is the perfect balance between fresh floral and citrus, musky scents, which will delight your sense. The touch of gardenia is at the heart of this exotic fragrance, which encapsulates your sense with the mix of classic olfactive ingredients such as, vanilla and musk.
IRRESISTIBLY JUICY STRAWBERRY PREMIUM COLLECTION BY THE BODY SHOP Give skin a seriously sweet gift with the refreshingly fruity surprises hiding inside The Body Shop’s luxurious Irresistibly Juicy Strawberry Premium Collection. Gently exfoliate with the Body Polish. Lather up with the cleansing Shower Gel and body buffing Bath Lily. Moisturize with the richly textured Body Butter and hydrating Hand Cream. Spritz all over with the fruity Body Mist. This premium body care and bath gift set is packed with everything you need to refresh, pamper and moisturize.
DOLCE & GABBANA BEAUTY MAKEUP RELAUNCH..
Dolce & Gabbana Beauty pays tribute to women and their innate charm with a new Makeup collection. A unique line entirely designed to empower women, bring them joy, confidence and make them feel the queen of their everyday life. The roots, the DNA, the founding values of Dolce & Gabbana permeate the fashion and beauty collections in a continuous suggestion of sensations that bring the mind back to Sicily and its sceneries full of traditions.
L’ESSENTIEL THE NEW RITUAL LA PETITE ROBE NOIRE BY GUERLAIN
This season Guerlain celebrates with a fresh array of stunning new products and collections offering everything you need to spark. Guerlain’s little black dress gets a fashionable update with a distinctly liberated new take on La Petite Robe Noire; L’Essentiel reveals the latest chapter in a beauty manifesto that brings together performance and nature. To evoke the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms themselves, Les Météorites has been reinvented with Happy Glow, a harmony of four exclusive pearlescent shades that seamlessly correct the complexion and refresh the skin. Discover two cheerful new Rouge G shades complete with cherry blossom-engraved sticks, in either a satin-textured rosewood colour or a matte, soft pink shade.
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YOU, LOVE & LIFE
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relationships
8 the right
Signs you’re with
partner
eing with someone can be B a confusing experience, when you are unsure about
where to start. It’s rare for ever yone to meet the right person the first time they jump into a relationship, and it’s always going to be a trial and error process. This Valentine’s Yara El Hashimi brings you 8 signs you are with the right partner.
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You Don’t Freak Out About Fighting It’s normal to not always meet halfway in arguments, as long as you channel your disagreements into something constructive. Neither of you should carry any resentment if you found yourselves in a tough spot where you disagree with your partner. If that turns into an intense fight, that’s where you should draw the line.
They’re Your Go-to
You know you can depend on them especially when times are rough, they’re the first person you’d call in desperate situations and you know that they’d just pick you up, drop everything and go to you. They’re someone that you can not only share your troubles with, but also uplift your spirits on a bad day.
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You Communicate Properly A great relationship starts with transparency. Do you feel like you can communicate about anything with your partner? From personal needs to taboo topics? Do both of you take the time to listen and empathize with each other? Even if it’s in the form of an argument, it could actually be healthy sometimes; otherwise you’re probably just bottling up your feelings, and allowing them to turn into hatred.
Maintain Your Individual Identities
When you’re in a committed relationship and still are able to maintain your individual identity you become happier and much more optimistic. When you have a stronger sense of who you are, you find yourself able to be more invested and more intimate.
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You Feel Comfortable
You don’t feel insecure around them because you have established enough trust between you two. Although they’re aware of your shortcomings and your past history, they don’t use these weaknesses against you.
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They Make You Feel Alive
When you’re with them you don’t feel bored or that life is meaningless. Being with them is easy. The relationship makes you feel that life is worthwhile and worth living because it works for you.
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They’re Helpful
They voluntarily help you out even when its not expected of them. They want to make your life easier because they care. They know what you need most, whether it’s a listening ear or concrete advice.
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You like Them For Who They Are
When you truly love someone even their imperfections and quirks become appealing to you. You know their flaws, but you accept them wholeheartedly. You appreciate them for who they are inside and out.
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ENTERTAINMENT LOUNGE
cover story
Stylist: Islam Mitwally Photographer: Ahmed Ashkor Make up: Lamia Al Maagam Hair: Ahmed El Hnien
MAYA NASSAR
THE MIDDLE EAST F I T N E S S STA R LOUNGE 22
eing fit is what we all aspire to B especially when it means being healthy. If the role model we look up to
is a mother of two, it sends a message that motherhood and having fabulous abs is a dream that could come true. This month Amira Thar wat brought you all the way from Lebanon fitness guru, International fitness model champion and owner of Start Living Right Gym Maya Nassar. The half Lebanese half Dutch fitness entrepreneur reveals all about the secrets behind her fabulous body and shares some of her fitness hacks.
You were born in USA yet, you are very proud of your Lebanese origins, tell us more about that‌ I would say that I am very multicultural. I have a Lebanese father and a Dutch mother and I was born in the US. I am very proud to be half Lebanese and to be living in Lebanon. I believe I have the best from both of my cultures and this has made me who I am today. How were you able to be back in shape after your second pregnancy 4.5 months later, and at the time competing in the world championships in England? It took a lot of hard work and dedication and was the hardest prep I have ever experienced. I was not ready enough and didn’t end up placing simply because I needed more time, but I really grew from this experience. The hardest part was dealing with physical exhaustion of having 2 kids and a newborn baby, but I still managed to commit to my goals. I had a very easy pregnancy and trained until the day before I gave birth, and I was back in the gym 3 weeks after my delivery. My life during these few months was just about my business, my training and my kids, but I hope I can show other moms that anyone can reach any goal if they want it bad enough.
It was the first time since 2014 that I didn’t win any trophies, but it was the time I learnt the most, and to me this is a form of wining. Being fit is not only about shape, but about adapting a healthy lifestyle, how do you encourage your followers to do so? I always tell my followers that it takes 3 weeks to build a new habit. It will always be challenging at first, but if they stick it out for long enough then, it will eventually become a lifestyle. I tell my followers that it is the best lifestyle they can possibly live, and it will reward their life with health, happiness, confidence and personal satisfaction. You showed your stretch marks and wrote a post about it on Instagram, why were you keen on doing that, and what is the message you wanted to convey? Yes! I was always obsessed with having the perfect flat belly and abs, but since becoming a mom, I discovered there is nothing more beautiful than motherhood. I want to empower mothers to be proud of their bodies, even if it means they have stretch marks. Our marks are a reminder that we gave birth and carried our babies in our belly.
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A lot of pregnant women suffer from Diastasis Recti post pregnancy, what is the reason for it? And what are the exercises they can do to narrow the gap between the stomach muscles? Diastasis Recti is caused when abdominal muscles and connective tissues in a woman’s body are stretched out from pregnancy. Pushing during a natural labor can also cause Diastasis Recti. After two pregnancies in less than 2 years, I have suffered from this myself. There are specialized floor exercises and breathing techniques that can help with this. The best thing a woman can do is to speak to her doctor or a qualified coach for a proper diagnosis and treatment. What distinguishes your gym ‘Start Living Right’ from any other gym? My gym offers everything a person needs to live a healthy lifestyle from personal training to classes, physiotherapy and diet consultations. However, what makes my gym different from others is my personal story. It is not just another gym in town, but rather a boutique with a personalized touch. I have lost 20 kilograms of fat and five dress sizes, and fitness became my ultimate passion. My gym is all about taking care of our customers and supporting them to reach their goals the same way I reached mine. We are a fitness community and we go out of our way to take care of everyone and make them feel welcome. There is also the online coaching that your gym provides, tell us more about it… Last year, I recently launched an e-shop via my website www.startlivingright.com and we offer customized diet plans and workout programs. I also give online consultations. Many people live far away or abroad, and we are still able to help them. People can diet or train for years and not see results, and this is usually because they are not following a suitable plan. We send plans that are customized to their goals and we guarantee results. We have many satisfied online clients at the moment from many different countries. I will soon be launching a fit pregnancy e-book with diet and training plans for pregnant women including, lots of general information about what to expect in each trimester. My e-book will be endorsed by a gynecologist. You also launched a free mobile app, tell us more about it… A few years ago I launched the first mobile application in Lebanon. It is endorsed by the Lebanese Ministry of Sports and has been ranked as the number one app by Apple Store competing with other international apps. My app contains diet plans, exercise programs, recipes; tons of articles and everything someone needs to live a healthy lifestyle. My app is for free and can be downloaded on any smartphone store by searching for ‘startlivingright’ as one word. The gym is located in Lebanon, any coming plans to expand in the Arab World? Definitely! We have two branches in Lebanon and we will be opening a 3rd one soon, but it is my dream to open a branch in Egypt or other Arab countries.
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How do you manage to stay active with your fans and take care of the gym while being a proud mom of two kids? It is all about having a routine and balance. Each day I have the same schedule with my work and my kids, and having a daily routine makes it easier to balance everything. I always give priority to my kids and do not go out much during the week to be able to sleep early and have energy to get through the day. I limit late evenings to the weekends, which helps me stay on track as a working mom and fitness influencer. You also have an amazing sense of style, what inspires you when it comes to fashion? Honestly, I am very classic in my style. I love simple, classic outfits and I am not very adventurous or eccentric. During the day I like to be very casual, but at night I enjoy getting dressed up. I am inspired by what suits my body type best and do not really follow any trends. And the designers you admire the most? I’m a huge fan of Herve Leger, Armani, Burberry and Louis Vuitton. What are the mistakes that Arab women do when it comes to staying fit? And how can they avoid it? I believe Arab women still do not know the value and benefits of lifting weights. They believe it is unnecessary and that if they do
it, they will bulk up and become muscular. However, this is not true. Women do not have enough testosterone in their bodies to look like a man and muscular female bodybuilders always take steroids. Weightlifting is the best way to burn fat, shape their body naturally (without needing surgery), boost their metabolism, prevent diseases and feel empowered. Also, many overweight women believe they should not lift weights and that it will expand under their fat, but this is not true. An overweight woman will see faster results if she lifts weights. The best training program is one that includes both weightlifting and cardio too. Your hubby seems very proud of your accomplishments, how much does his support help you in making your dreams come true? He supports me fully and has even traveled to watch my fitness modeling competitions in England. I am lucky that he treats me as an equal and shares my success with me. It is extremely important to have support from those closest to you as this can help you stay motivated and on track during very difficult days. Where will you spend this Valentine’s? Most probably in an Italian restaurant and will definitely be having a cheat meal. I always have cheat meals on Valentine’s Day and Italian food is my favourite cuisine.
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ENTERTAINMENT LOUNGE
Lookout
Photographer: Raghda A. El Sayed Stylist: Maria Fathy Make up: Nesma Ghoneim Location: Grand Nile Tower Shirt: Daniel Hechter Egypt Socks: unisox
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AMR ABED A ONE MAN SHOW Tell us more about your role in ‘Demagh Shetan’... In ‘Demagh Shetan,’ I play the role of Nasser, a guy who is married to Bassem Samra’s sister, who is about to give birth. The family gets involved in an accident, which results in changing the course of the whole day. My son gets kidnapped right after his birth, at the same time the affair between Bassem Samra and Rania Youssef is publically surfaced and the series of events begin to unfold. How were you nominated for your role in ‘Lama Bentweled?’ Director Tamer Ezzat called me and sent me the script to take a look at it. After that we arranged a meeting, where I met producer Moataz and we discussed his plan for a new movie and the role seemed very fitting. I play the role of a person, who was forced to work in prostitution so he can afford fulfilling his dream with his wife to get a house. The movie was played in several successful festivals such as, Gouna Film Festival, Cairo International Film Festival, Carthage Film Festival and it is still ongoing in numerous festivals. How were you chosen to be among the jury of Alexandria Short Film Festival? This goes back to the festival itself, and this is considered the first time I attend Alexandria Short Film Festival and I’m very excited about the idea of independent youth festivals, and in my opinion all of those youthful cultural events make an obvious difference, not just to those who want to produce movies, but also to the audience because it exposes them to a variety of stories and cultures. Those festivals are really important and can influence even if one individual who watched those movies and plays, they force several questions within a person. Also, one of the things that excite me to participate in the festival, since I’m one of the judges, is that I have the opportunity to see many films, and see them from different angles. Being chosen before as a judge in Sharm El-Sheikh festival has been a very crucial experience in my career as an actor, and I got to know more about new cultures. Also, another thing that tempted me to accept being a judge in Alexandria Short Film Festival is my extreme love to the city especially in winter.
n actor, writer and A director..seems that the young Egyptian
talent has a lot in his plate. Amira Thar wat talks to the multi-talented Amr Abed about being a judge in Alexandria Short Film Festival, his role in ‘Demagh Shetan’ and the second sequel of ‘Awkaat Faragh.’
What tempted you the most to accept participating in ‘Awkaat Faragh 2?’ The first thing that motivated me is working again with Karim, Ahmed Hatem and scriptwriter Amr Gamal. In addition, the amount of time that passed between the two movies, I wanted to return to the first character I have ever played and wanted to rediscover the character once more. The idea of the second sequel is that we will discuss what exactly happened to these characters after ten years have passed. What are the changes that occurred to the movie’s characters? Currently, the movie and the script are still being developed, and so are the characters, so I’m not at liberty to disclose what will happen of the movie’s characters as it’s subject to change or to be amended. However, our audience is awaiting Amr, Karim and Ahmed Hatem in ‘Awkat Faragh’ after 15 years have passed, so we should all be expecting drastic changes and big evolution in the characters. We heard there is a movie script in the making, how did you discover this passion for writing? That is true, I was working on and learning more about Film Making, directing, producing and script writing, and I think I already grasped enough information that made me write the first draft from the screenplay of a feature film in Dahshur Workshop called ‘El Fat Mat,’ which is still in its developmental stages. You are directing your first short film, tell us more about it... I have been working on directing my first short film, and we will start filming very soon. I have another idea and plan for another short movie, I will soon start directing by the end of the year, and it has already been developed. What is the role you saw recently and wished you would participate in? There are a lot of roles that grabbed my attention, especially a French movie I watched recently called ‘A Prophet,’ I would have definitely loved to take part in this movie. I would also love to work with director Tamer Mohsen, I think it would be a great experience.
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Who are the actors you aspire to in Egypt or worldwide? Charlie Chaplin and Robert Di Nero. As for Egypt, Yehia el Fakharany and Mahmoud Hemida. I wish I had the opportunity to act with the late Ahmed Zaki. What are your hobbies? My hobbies range from drawing, bicycling to reading. I also really enjoy going to museums. What is the book that you are reading now? And which do you recommend to our readers? I’m currently reading a graphic novel on Berlin, it’s called ‘Berlin’ and a play called ‘The lonesome west.’ How do you stay fit? I actually try to play sports, and I’m keen on going to the gym on a regular basis. Where will you spend this Valentine’s? At home with my wife and my cats: Batata and Yazra Any coming TV serials this Ramadan? I am reading a scenario of a TV serial that has been offered to me, but I haven’t decided anything yet.
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ENTERTAINMENT
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KRISTEN STEWART IN UNDERWATER
the new horror thriller Underwater, it’ll threaten the lives of everyone aboard S the Kepler mining rig. When the station is compromised, Norah Price (Kristen even miles beneath the surface of the ocean, something has awakened. And in
Stewart) and a group of fellow survivors must make it to their only hope – an abandoned rig called the Roebuck, gambling that the communications equipment or escape pods are still functioning. But even as they start the perilous journey across the ocean floor, they realize something is tracking them. This issue, Kristen Stewart talks about the trials and tribulations of complicated, heavy pressure suits, how she bonded with her cast mates and what made her decide to star in the film to begin with.
What was it about Underwater that made you want to do it? I have a great fear of water in general, so I did think that it was an appealing prospect to do because it’s a movie about survival instincts and how people react to trauma. And it’s about a group of people who don’t really know each other trying to come up with a solution and then realising that they’ve all gone to an inaccessible place that should not have been touched upon… that we’ve dug up something really violent and unnatural and dangerous. Initially, I thought that sounded like a strange, existential, blow–em–up movie about people trying not to die, and then it turns into a cool horror movie. I hadn’t done a big movie in a long time, and I wanted to do something that wasn’t an obsessive five-week intellectual meditation, and rather something that felt really physical and was going to be a good time, edge–of–your–seat thriller. But does it also let you dig into the psychology of Norah and her comrades? I wouldn’t have wanted to do it if it was just purely a bunch of people not wanting to die! It’s about a girl who seems a little closed off and who quite literally has closed herself off in the most severe way possible. There’s a remoteness to this person that you really wonder about, what kind of person does it take to go and spend their time on the bottom of the ocean like that, and then you find out halfway through that this tough exterior is indicative of someone who is really sad and precious, actually, and just self-protective. When things really go wrong and she finds herself with a bunch of people who she up until this point would never want to care about, suddenly the feeling of being a human being starts to come back again. All of that was not a subplot so much as the motivation for why this person exists and why we’re telling a story about her and her survival. Were you looking to face your fears on the film? That’s always a massive draw for me –– it’s sort of a prerequisite on a job… terror! Unless I’m feeling afraid of something, I usually find that there’s nothing there for me to get at, no reason to do the film, and so in this case I put one of those suits on for the first time, which took 20 minutes initially. We got it quicker at some point, but the
first couple of times we got into the suits, it took 15–20 minutes to get in, and 15–20 minutes to get out. And that in itself is almost a traumatizing notion! I couldn’t believe that I said yes to this, and then to think that we were also going to be submerged in water… Once I actually got to that point, because there was a submersible suit that I wore a couple of times, and I thinkthere were people who went in it a lot more, like the stunt crew, and the actors who enjoyed it. I am definitely acknowledging that I’m being dramatic, and I see myself as someone who can handle these things, and puts a lot on myself though it, but I was seriously crying, stuck in the suit, absolutely hating it. So one of the huge draws was doing something that was hard for me, and there are certain things that, as an actor, you don’t want to fake. I don’t want to think that I’m really in danger of losing my life in an underwater oil ring but at the same time, I did want to feel those things. And those are sometimes in evidence in the film. If I was cozy making the movie, it wouldn’t have made sense. I thought it was going to be fun and it turned out to be utter hell, which really served the film! You had a hand in Norah’s look. What did you want to bring to her? To be honest, it was just a very cool opportunity, an excuse to shave my head. It was so hard to get into those suits, it was genuinely much easier for me than for Jessica (Henwick), who was also in the movie and had to get in with a full head of hair. I had to get in it a little more than her, but if she heard me saying that, she would strike me down. But the look reflected somebody who was so spartan and didn’t like herself very much to be honest, even if that doesn’t necessarily represent everyone with a shaved head. For some girls it’s rad, but for this one we though she’s a little stripped and it’s like roughage after a storm, she doesn’t have much left, so she wouldn’t care how she looked. And so it was just easier if she’s just not seeing anyone in remote society and she takes the hair off. William (Eubank, director) said, “but you need to bleach it!” I said, “so she takes the time to bleach her head every two weeks?” But also we were making a horror movie and we wanted it to look cool.
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There are shades of Sigourney Weaver as Ripley… It’s a full nod to the obvious inspiration! The dry-for-wet effects shooting included harness work. How was it? In that particular case, I remember the harnesses were attached to our suits, so they actually took some of the weight off of our shoulders, which I can’t even tell you, halfway through a shoot that long, what it did for us. They said, “we’re going to make it easier for you and put you on rigs to take half the weight off you so you can move for more than two takes, so we can actually film a scene that’s in the script.” It was trial by error trying to figure out how to make the movie with us not actually submerged in water and we definitely got there, but it was grueling! For us, we were really struggling with the weight, so the harnesses were actually a huge relief. Usually they make everything worse, but here, we said, “please, put a harness on me, I don’t mind, it’ll make it better.” Was William Eubank good as an actor’s director as well as an action director? He was always very sympathetic. He definitely was not somebody who thinks that acting is the actors’ job, therefore it should be easy for them and have them do it. He was always willing to put himself in our shoes. One day he came to set, and we were all so exhausted and struggling. And he put a suit on, because he wanted to understand our situation. On that level, he was really nice about our plight. He was ingenious in figuring out ways to make it look entirely submerged when we weren’t, so for that I was very impressed by him. It was also a script that was really sparse and there wasn’t much room to shove narrative into a movie that starts with an explosion. We hit the ground running when it starts and the script was always that way, so we were cognizant of trying to imbue it with something that made these people exist and he was always aware of that. How did the cast bond in this experience? Honestly, my favourite part of the movie is when Paul (TJ Miller) looks up to the heavens and says, “f*** our lives!” And that was not remotely in the scene or the script, we were in character the whole time, but we felt solidified by the struggles of making the movie. Also, we were in New Orleans and we had a remarkable, committed and incredibly sweet crew to support us. They did more than normal, took care of us. It was really fun before and after work!
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HEALTH & FITNESS LOUNGE
news
Losing One Night’s Sleep May Increase Risk For Alzheimer’s A preliminary study found the loss of one night’s sleep in healthy young men increased the levels of tau protein, a protein that helps stabilize the internal makeup of the brain nerve cells, in their blood compared to getting a complete night of interrupted sleep. Studies have shown that higher levels of tau protein in the blood is associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Too Many Carbs Can Cause Thirst
When you’re working out, carbs give you the energy to keep moving. However, over-consuming them can have negative consequences. Do you sometimes feel thirsty even after chugging a whole bottle of water? It could be because of your diet. If you ate a high-carb meal, your blood sugar level elevates, making you feel thirstier and causing more frequent urination. The water helps rehydrate your bloodstream and removes the excess sugar through your urine.
Calories Are Not The Same! Losing weight is tough, but it can be especially tricky when you’ve got “do this” and “do that” advice coming at you from all angles. One of the most common myths we know is that all calories are equal. Knowing how many calories you’re eating is important when you’re trying to lose weight, but so is the type of calories you’re having. “A calorie is not just a calorie,” Cording says. Macronutrients like protein, fat, and carbohydrates “do different things in the body and have different functions,” she says. “We need a combination of them for the body to function optimally.
Ginger Reduces Inflammation All Over Your Body
If you’re going to get hooked on any spice, make it ginger. The reason that ginger is so good for you is down to a compound called gingerol. This substance is anti-inflammatory, which means it can relieve pain and swelling. It is also an antioxidant that neutralizes harmful free radicals in the body. This can reduce your lifetime risk of cancer. Inflammation is a defense mechanism that is useful when an injured or infected portion of the body needs to be isolated to limit damage to other areas.
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Squats Build Muscle & Cause Weight Lose
To effectively build lean muscle your body needs a caloric surplus to take in more energy per day than it burns. To lose fat, your body needs a caloric deficit to burn more energy per day than it takes in. However, the best exercises for building muscle in a caloric surplus are also the best exercises for losing fat, explains Anna Swisher, USA Weightlifting coach education and sport science manager. “Squats are the exercise equivalent of the base of the food pyramid,” Swisher says. They work some of the body’s largest muscle groups, namely the glutes and quads, to a high degree.
OUT & ABOUT
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WHERE VALENTINE’S TO GO T H I S DAY IN C EGYPT
andles, chocolates, flowers and a good meal; that’s how we celebrate Valentine’s Day. This year, make this occasion a special one and check out the top places, where you can spend a lovely day and make it a memorable night..Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Cairo with Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
The hotel will be pampering you on this special day at The Spa with a 60-minute massage in the couple’s suite overlooking the magical Nile River followed by an access to a private whirlpool, steam and sauna. At the Tea Lounge, enjoy an unforgettable evening with a beautifully curated four course menu crafted by Executive Chef Erwan Laurenceau, with romantic live music as their backdrop. At Aura, opt for an intimate set menu Shami dinner for two at the exclusive poolside cabana with an intimate setting infused with Egyptian hospitality.
Make it a Valentine’s Day to Remember at Grand Nile Tower
Enjoy a romantic 5-course candlelit dinner created exclusively for Valentine’s Day while basking in the Revolving Restaurant’s captivating atmosphere and live musical melodies on this special night. This entire exquisite experience with a magnificent view of the Nile and city of Cairo ensures that the Revolving Restaurant Cairo’s most romantic destination. As a special perk, all Valentine’s room packages include early check in upon availability, late check out at 18:00 hrs, and one car complimentary parking.
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InterContinental Cairo Citystars Celebrates Love on Valentine’s Day
Celebrate the day of love with an Italian flair at Maestro, where the chef has passionately prepared a 4-course set menu and a signature Valentine’s Day dessert to indulge in along the tunes of the guitarist. Relish the oriental vibes at Al Khal with a set menu introducing a fine selection of authentic Egyptian dishes, or stimulate your taste buds with the delicacies of the Lebanese cuisine in a delectable set menu while you enjoy the live band and belly dancer performance.
Ultimate Valentine’s Day Experience at Hilton Cairo Heliopolis
Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner with enchanting atmosphere on this special night at Leonardo Italian Restaurant with delicate set menu in an intimate setting and live entertainment. It will surely create the best romantic ambience. The Noble House, Chinese Restaurant, will be preparing a tailored Chinese set menu and the night will be blessing with intimate love songs. Al Dabké Lebanese Restaurant will offer an authentic Lebanese set menu while enjoying live music.
Cupid is About to Revive Golden Arrows at Hilton Cairo Zamalek
Enjoy a special Valentine’s Day candlelight dinner at Hilton Cairo Zamalek that offers 4- courses menu with welcome mocktail at The Time lounge overlooking the magnificent view of the Nile. Dinner price EGP1450. Per couple including service charge and taxes - Free corkage. Also, ask for Hilton Cairo Zamalek Romance Package.
Valentine’s Day Celebrations at Ramses Hilton
Enjoy a romantic dinner in OPIA Lounge & Bar with a stunning view of Cairo and the Nile River with live entertainment. Or listen to your favourite love songs, performed by our guitarist and share the beautiful moment together at the Citadel Grill Restaurant with a romantic candle light dinner. Take the time to reconnect and express your love and book a room at our Valentine’s Day romantic room package and enjoy the lavish Valentine breakfast at the Terrace Café with VIP amenities.
Embrace The Romance of Valentine’s Day at Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir
Valentine’s Day Highlights at Semiramis InterContinental
Whether you would prefer a quiet romantic setting at The Grill or a funfilled Dine “n” Valentine’s Edition at Pane Vino with Cairo’s favourite singer, Ahmed HarfousH, the hotel definitely has the ideal venue for you. Fulfil your sweet tooth cravings with their colourful sweet courses at Café Corniche. Restobar and lounge, India along the Nile, brings you an unmatched romantic experience in a contemporary and modern setting. Indulge in an exquisite Valentine’s set menu by Indian Chef Sanjib Kumar and dance along to our resident DJs tunes.
Guests can impress their special someone with a selection of exceptional dining experiences especially made for the sweet occasion. On this evening, couples can set the romantic tone on high at Downtown restaurant with an extensive 4 course meal. Guests looking to spend the night, love birds can enjoy a special Valentine’s day promotion to stay at one of their exquisitely furnished rooms and indulge in a special Valentine‘s dinner at the comfort of their rooms.
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Make it an Extra Special Valentine’s Day at Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino
Spend a memorable night at “La Gondola” with a charming candlelit dinner, and experience an unforgettable valentine occasion, while enjoying a selection of gourmet Italian choices in a truly romantic atmosphere with their house band playing your favourite tunes. If you want it Lebanese style, the Chef invites you to taste his Lebanese creations at “Baalbak.” Enjoy a special valentine dinner, an exciting ambiance with live entertainment & Belly dancer.
A Royal Valentine’s in the Heart of The Palace
Guests can celebrate Valentine’s at Torii at Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino with the “all you can eat” offer in a joyful atmosphere with sushi and romantic tunes for an unforgettable night at the Palace. An authentic dining experience at Saraya Gallery will exceed expectations with a unique food menu and an open appetizers bar filled with an ultimate variety of French hors d’oeuvres, where guests will be able to pick from a selection of main courses cooked to perfection along with a live harp performance.
Ignite The Spark of Your Love at Steigenberger Alcazar Sharm El Sheikh
Experience a majestic accommodation at a swim-up room, luxurious suite or private villa with an astounding pool or sea views and a romantic set-up; whilst enjoying a heart shaped cake and the special Valentine’s customized room amenity from red roses to mouthwatering chocolate box and soothing milky bubble bath. Start the day with some romance and reserve the specially crafted couple’s breakfast in pool for a truly one of a kind experience, or order a cozy breakfast at the comfort of your bed.
Sheraton Montazah is Where Romance Begins
Create romance to remember without leaving the room if you’re in a brightly decorated surrounding overlooking the Mediterranean and the lush Montazah parks. Grab a special rate with free heart shaped tart for couples on Valentine for only L.E. 1500 in a panoramic sea view room per double occupancy with late check-out. Or pamper yourself with an energizing experience at the Fitness Center enjoying a rejuvenating sauna or a relaxing free massage using premium oils for 20 minutes per two persons per stay.
Magnifique Romance at Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
Share special time together, savor intimate dinners and take sunset strolls and moonlight walks in their Promenade. Delight in the luminous glow and explore the Moroccan delights at La Palmeraie or relax near the soothing Jacuzzi with 1 hour massage for 2 at Sofitel SPA. Discover the Magnifique Valentines packages at Le Deck or Casa Mia Italian restaurant and experience Sofitel’s perfect setting for romantic memories that will last forever.
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Naguib Sawiris Officially Inaugurates ZED Park
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Professors Doctors, Celebrities of Art & Media Gather at The Annual Celebration of Bionike
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Hilton Celebrates Centennial Year & Gears up for Promising Years to Come
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Sheraton Cairo Celebrates ‘The Promise,’ The First Launch of ‘The Show Case’
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Steigenberger Alcazar Sharm El Sheikh Hosts the World Youth Forum 2019 Media Celebrities
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brand news A UNIQUE EGYPTIAN EXPERIENCE BY LE MERIDIEN PYRAMIDS HOTEL AND SPA
On the 9th of December 2019, Le Meridien Pyramids hotel and spa arranged a special Egyptian night with Egypt’s Indiana Jones for the Marriott Bonvoy Loyal Members. Marriott Bonvoy Moments is an event that aims to create an unforgettable experience for Marriott Bonvoy guests, by offering them a money cannot buy experiences. At Le Meridien Pyramids Hotel and spa, the Moment was a private luxury candle light dinner with Egypt’s Indiana Jones Dr. Zahy Hawas, the famous Archeologist and former minister of antiquities overlooking the pyramids. ZAHI revealed the secrets of the Grand Pyramids of Giza the one and only surviving Seven Wonders of the ancient World to the Marriott convoy members who won this special moment through Marriott bonvoy website. The event’s theme was Pharaonic and cultural at the same time where guests dined in a special designed tent with live Harp Entertainment where they shared a lot of great memories and ancient secrets with Dr. Hawas that money cannot buy.
FINE HYGIENIC HOLDING AWARDED “STERILIZED BRAND OF THE DECADE 2020”
Fine Hygienic Holding (FHH), one of the world’s leading Wellness Groups and manufacturer of hygienic paper products, has been awarded the prestigious and highly coveted “Sterilized Brand of the Decade Award” in 2020, by the Family Hygiene Institute (FHI). FHI operates under the auspices of the Medical Wellness Association (MWA), which is a globally recognized collection of the finest doctors and wellness professionals with the express purpose to promote proven global hygiene practices, especially for families. The prestigious Sterilized Brand of the Decade Award was presented to Fine Hygienic Holding in recognition of their unique, sterilization technology through which they manufacture the only sterilized tissue in the world. Fine’s patented SteriPro technology ensures a fully sterile and hygienic production environment, guaranteeing that the first hand to touch the product is the consumer’s and reducing the risk of exposure to germs and viruses which cause sickness.
GROHE’S “GREEN MOSQUE” INITIATIVE RANKS FOURTH IN THE BEST PR CAMPAIGNS FOR THIS DECADE BASED ON PUBLIC VOTE IN EGYPT & THE REGION.
GROHE was ranked fourth for its “Green Mosque” initiative in the list of the best PR campaigns for this decade by the “Holmes Report” in London, based on public vote. This initiative is part of the Corporate Water Responsibility program “WaterCare” launched by GROHE, with the aim of reducing water waste in the region. Under the “Green Mosque” initiative, GROHE, in cooperation with its local partners, provided selected mosques in the Middle East and North Africa with water-saving faucets, which contributed to a 30 percent reduction in water consumption during ablution rituals adopted by Muslims. Within this framework, GROHE continued its efforts and launched the second phase of the project under the name of “Turn Water into Food”, where the amount of water saved, was converted into food and distributed 1000 meals to needy families during the holy month of Ramadan. Egypt is top of the countries who planned the initiative. Lina Varytimidou, Director PR and Communications GROHE Middle East, Africa and East Mediterranean said. The “Green Mosque” initiative was implemented in several countries in the region, including Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia & Syria.
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FOR THE FIRST TIME TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS BAHEYA HAS MADE AN EARLY DETECTION FOR 20 WOMEN “DEAF AND HEARING IMPAIRED”
Baheya recognized as one of the Middle East’s leading breast cancer organizations, has partnered with the deaf and hearing impaired association to provide breast cancer prevention, detection and treatment education to patients and sycological support. As part of their partnership, Baheya shared actionable breast cancer education and interactive exam. Breast cancer is one of the leading health crises for women in the Middle East. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Baheya helps women around the country through their free mammography, patient navigation, breast health education, research programs and sycological support. “Our partnership with the association of deaf and hearing impaired helps us extend our reach and accomplish our mission of helping women with special needs now through our early detection, education and support services,” said Eng. Maged Hamdy, Baheya’s Board member.
GRAND NILE TOWER: VENUE FOR MATCHLESS EVENTS
Egypt has a long storied history of being a meeting place for the people and cultures of the world. With that history comes a need for unforgettable venues for events and activities. Located in the heart of Cairo, Grand Nile Tower is beloved by all for both its stellar location and wide array of banquet halls and restaurants, ensuring a memorable event for any gathering, large or small. Grand Nile Tower banqueting facilities include three grand ballrooms that can accommodate up to 1,750 conference delegates in total. The landmark hotel also features several state-of-the-art board rooms to facilitate any number of meetings and functions, with full business amenities and WIFI to ensure that conferences and teleconferences flow smoothly, and uninterrupted. For those seeking the grandeur of high art and music, Grand Nile Tower also features an exclusive and lavishly outfitted 885-seat multi-purpose auditorium which offers a perfect venue for conferences, lectures, theatricals performances, concerts, and special film showings.
THE FIRST EDITION OF THE THREE-DAY MIDDLE EAST MUSIC EVENT “M.E.M.E” TAKES PLACE ZED PARK WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF SOME OF THE BEST SOUNDS IN EGYPT, JORDAN AND SAUDI ARABIA
ZED Park is introducing the first edition of Middle East Music Event (MEME), the greatest music event the Middle East has to offer, as part of its entertainment platform “ZED Park Presents”. The three-day music event is scheduled to take place from 9-11 January and will showcase a series of alternative music performances for renowned and underground bands, such as: Massar Egbari, Sharmoofers, Cairokee, Wust El Balad and Marwan Pablo. M.E.M.E.’s unique set list will bring together the best collection of sound that Egypt has to offer. The lineup for the first day will include Egyptian bands Hawass and Massar Egbari, Jordanian bands, Akher Zapheer and Autostrad and Emirati singer, Balqeis. On the second day, the lineup will include Egyptian bands, Do’souqa, Wust El Balad, Sharmoofers and Lekhfa, Jordanian bands, Jadal and Ayloul, in addition to, the Egyptian singer Marwan Pablo.
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brand news SHERATON MONTAZAH HOTEL ALEXANDRIA.. LET US HELP CREATE AN EXCITING FAMILY OUTING IN MIDYEAR VACATION
Mid-year vacation is a good break for families and children especially after a particularly stressful first semester. In Alexandria, over a million people and families from Cairo and all over Egypt annually come to the city in mid-year vacation to enjoy its stretched beaches, shopping plazas, moderate winter weather and vibrant environment which made the city a favorable destination in both summer and winter for many of the Egyptians and residents. The Sheraton Montazah Hotel which is located on the seashore overlooking the lavish Montazah parks and fascinating Mediterranean is offering families a great venue to spend their mid-year break and have fun in both day and night with appealing rates and special room packages for only L.E. 1700 per Double Room & L.E. 2200 per Triple Room including buffet breakfast & FREE LIGHT DINNER/PERSON (Classic Margarita Pizza, Juice, Green Salad & Pudding) in addition to free kids amenities. The hotel that consists of 288 brightly decorated guest rooms and suites, shopping arcade, fine dining cuisine, fitness center and night life is considered a great escape to many families and friends to unwind and get relaxed after an exhausting working week or a stressful exam.
STEIGENBERGER ALDAU RESORT STARTS 2020 WITH REACHING 98 AWARDS
The superb complex of Steigenberger ALDAU Resort in Hurghada is very proud that their effort has been acknowledged and rewarded by receiving 98 prestigious awards so far, based on the reviews and comments of their beloved guests. Two of its three best-in-class hotels, Steigenberger ALDAU Beach Hotel and Steigenberger Aqua Magic, have been granted with Apollo gold and silver awards for offering guests great service, excellent holidays, and high-quality food and beverages. The leading property of ALDAU Development is also honoured to receive the highest-standard premium certificate from the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company, SGS. Steigenberger ALDAU Resort has always been keen on building a high-end dynamic community for their guests and their safety is our priority concern as well as their workers’ health and personal protection.
UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH & SPORTS AND THE MINISTRY OF ANTIQUITIES..THE 2ND EDITION OF THE PYRAMIDS HALF MARATHON MAKES ITS WAY IN FEBRUARY
The TriFactory reveals the full details of The Pyramids Half Marathon in a press conference. For the second consecutive time, the Half Marathon is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The event will be held under the supervision of the Egyptian Athletics Sports Federation and the sponsorship of Tatweer Misr and HSBC, in addition to the charitable partnership with Ahl Misr foundation. The event will invite runners from around the world to run at the most iconic of locations: the Great Pyramids of Giza on the 22nd of February 2020. This year, The Half Marathon is featuring three exciting distances: 21K, 10K, and 6K in addition to brand new race courses, welcoming 5000 athletes from all around the world running together through the magical scenery of the Pyramids.
SONESTA’S MANAGERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR
Upon the on-going concept of “Commitment to Excellence,” Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino Cairo has chosen John Eshak from the Engineering department, Mohamed Sherif from Food and Beverage as Managers of the year, Milad Adel from Reservations Department and Kasban Azzam from Purchasing department as Employees of the year. Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino Cairo permanently insists on raising the quality of service and standards of hospitality to its esteemed guests, therefore kept on the annual tradition of awarding the best managers and employees aiming of maintaining high standards of service and warmth of hospitality as well as honorable competition to achieve the best among its personnel. Photo shows: Mr. Mounir Ghabbour, Mrs. Caroline Selim, Mr. Emad Bedwani awarding Mr. Mohamed Sherif as Manager of the year.
DM DEVELOPMENT LAUNCHES ‘SIERA:’ A NEW ALLURING PHASE FOR THE GROOVE SOKHNA RESORT
DM Development held media event on Monday, January 20th 2020 at Conrad Cairo Hotel, where the leading developer announced the launch of “Siera”, a new alluring phase for The Groove Sokhna Resort. Managing Director of DM Development, Dr. Ahmed Abd ElHamid, witnessed the event together with Managing Director Development of Hilton MENA, Nisrine Karazi, and a large number of media members and journalists. Dr. Ahmed Abd El-Hamid, Managing Director of DM Development, inaugurated the ceremony with a speech where he declared: “DM Development celebrates the New Year with launching” Siera” after the marvelous successes achieved by The Groove Sokhna Resort with its 1st & 2nd phases. & on behalf of DM Development, I would sincerely like to thank our esteemed clients for their profound trust, significantly translated into sales volume amounting EGP 1bn.” He added: “DM Development pledges more with ‘Siera,’ where our well-renowned expertise and the world’s latest architectural trends are skillfully optimized to offer our customers a flawless masterpiece with lavishing residential and retail units known for their smart and dazzling designs.”
VIVO CONTINUES TO GAIN MOMENTUM IN AFRICA AND MIDDLE EAST AS 2020 APPROACHES
Vivo celebrates its continuing expansion into Africa and Middle East markets just six months after it entered the region. Rallying behind a strategy to immerse in local culture and tailoring its approach to those consumer needs, vivo continues to redefine the path to success in the Africa and Middle East region in 2020. Since its announcement in late July 2019 to expand into the region, vivo has successfully entered 14 markets including Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Saudi Arabia and The United Arab Emirates (UAE). Vivo has been continuously expanding its sales channels and brought to consumers various innovative and trendsetting handset options. In 2020, vivo will further expand its sales channels and after-sales outlets in Egypt with major names coming on board including Amazon-backed Souq, B-Tech and more partners that will be joining the company’s network of retailers. Most notably, vivo’s V17 Pro and S1 handsets are already proving to be popular choices among young consumers, which attributes to its market-entry approach. Within just three months of operations in the Egyptian market, vivo managed to launch eight devices to cater to the various needs of Egyptian consumers.
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zodiac
Aries
Taurus
Mar.22 - Apr.20
Apr.21 - May 21
Your compatibility will be fantastic. After the 8th, romantic feelings for your spouse will be intense. Time to forget about career problems and enjoy! Personal magnetism will be splendid and you can enhance it with the way you dress and look. Singles will have many good prospects for making love partnerships. But these are more for fun than for real love. However, there will be conflicts and disagreements between family members throughout the month. This will have an adverse effect on children and you should handle them with care. It is a good month on the health front.
areas. Your compatibility will be highly romantic and sensuality will dominate in relations with your spouse this month. You are prone to conflicts with your partner and trust should prevail in your marital life. Singles will get many opportunities to form love relationships. Partners will be found while you are pursuing social causes or philanthropy. You will go wild in your romantic ventures. However, elder members of the family will be a source of conflict and relationships are anything but cordial. Children will be victims of this disharmony. You have to be diplomatic and sort out the intrigues in the family. Family expenditure will overshoot and it requires all your intelligence to find a solution to remain solvent.
Gemini
Cancer
our compatibility with spouse will be unpredictable and turbulent during February. Career requirements may be another source of disharmony. Friends may also unwittingly add fuel to the fire. You should avoid conflicts and work out a compromise for a healthy marital life. Singles will have many love prospects during the month. Love is found through friends or in a professional environment. You have to curb your enthusiasm to make partnerships. Otherwise, you may be left standing alone after all your efforts. Conflicts between senior members of the family may disrupt the harmony of the house.
ebruary promises growth Fcheer and attainment and hence and positivity thought the
Jennifer A
niston, Feb
ruary 11, 1 969
ebruary 2020 is a wonderful his month you will have the T determination to overcome many Fgrowth month. There will be splendid challenges and venture into new and accomplishments.
Y
Happy Birthday
Aquarius
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May.22 - Jun.21
Jun.22 - Jul.23
month. Your compatibility will be vibrant and your concept of love is undergoing frequent changes. You are trying your best to keep your spouse happy. There will be turmoil during the beginning of the month. Single persons will have many opportunities to form committed relationships. Love can be found through social contacts and during community celebrations. Harmony will be missing and family expenditures are soaring. Children tend to misbehave. This month is excellent on the health front. A good fitness regime keeps you fit and fine.
Leo
Jul.24 - Aug.23
Virgo
Aug.24 - Sep.23
Libra
F
Sep.24 - Oct.23
our compatibility with spouse Y will be excellent and thrilling. Love will be quite dynamic and
our compatibility will Y be based on spirituality during February. Love will be
passionate and imaginative. There will be a good rapport with your spouse until the 17th. After that, you are lost in your own thoughts. Overall, marital life will be pleasant. There will be plenty of opportunities for alliances. Keep your eyes wide open at your workplace and social gatherings. A spiritual connection will complete the affair. Harmony will be missing and you will have perennial problems with the members of the opposite sex in the family. Family expenses tend to overshoot and it requires all your intelligence to balance the budget.
ebruary is a period of social recognition & accomplishment of social objectives. Your compatibility with your spouse will be full of cordiality and closeness. There will be both romance and sensuality. Singles will find partners in the neighborhood or in social gettogethers. Your partner may be closely associated with your financial activities and responsible for furthering your financial goals and profits. You will have the support of elder members of the family. The family environment will be harmonious. Children cherish the pleasant surroundings and will excel in their studies and other activities.
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
our compatibility with your Y spouse will be intricate and turbulent after the 14th
month try to communicate Tas hiswithpossible your spouse as much and spend time
our compatibility will be Y splendid in February. Your personal charisma will be great
unpredictable, there will be romance and passion in your marital life. Single persons will be able to form love relationships speedily. There will be warmth and closeness in the alliances. Existing relationships are likely to get confirmed. Love can be found in social circles during get-together and celebrations. You may find your partner through the internet. Conflicts and disharmony will prevail in the family environment. Senior members of the family will be a source of intrigue. Most of your time will be spent on sorting out family disputes. Health will be excellent after the 18th. Career prospects will be in the background.
Nov.23 - Dec.22
of the month. You have to strike a compromise between authority and gratification in the union. Marital life will be full of romance and passion. There will be many opportunities for forming love partnerships. If you are in a committed relationship, your passion and authority may damage the alliance. Children will be affected by the family intrigues and will have a problem with their studies and activities. Chronic diseases tend to flare up and require more medical attention.
Dec.23 - Jan.20
with your partner. Do not try to force things. Aggression and passion will dominate the love life of singles. Romance may be missing. Do not be in a hurry to form new relationships. Senior members may be a source of disharmony. You should try to bring peace to the family environment. Children require more care. Family expenses may be beyond the budget and you may have to get loans to meet the expenses. It is important to cut down unnecessary spending. Health will be superb during the month. Career is not a pretty picture.
Jan.21 - Feb.19
and your spouse will keep you in happy spirits. There is a tendency on your part to be domineering and your love is highly unpredictable. Love will be better after the first week. Singles should try to get into as many relationships as possible. You may get into a passionate relationship with a person temporarily. Relationships with friends will see a major overhaul. Family affairs are not very cheerful. Intrigues between elder members of the family will vitiate the home environment. You have to be very diplomatic in dealing with them.
Scorpio
Oct.24 - Nov.22
month domestic issues and Tprimehisemotional issues will be of importance. Professional
matters take a back seat for the present. Marital life will be highly emotional and at the same time vacillating. You can’t ignore the significance of your spouse in your life. Singles will have many promising opportunities to form love relationships. You may find love among your colleagues in the working environment. Senior members are in a good mood and will support your efforts to maintain the family. Mutual understanding will be excellent. The financial situation will be under control. Health will be delicate till the 18th. After that there will be a remarkable improvement in your well-being.
Pisces
Feb.20 - Mar.21
our compatibility will be full Y of sizzle and impulses. You should not postpone expressing
your feelings to your beloved. Be natural and perceptive as per your true character. Singles are looking for idealism and romance in their love partners. There is a tendency on your part to get into relationships without commitment. However, plenty of love is available and you have to choose. Present relationships are affected by Mercury retrograde. They have to be reassessed and good ones will survive. This month promises optimism and positivity in the family environment. You will have the blessings of the elder members of the family. LOUNGE 47
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well said
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Signs You’re Enjoying Your Singlehood
lot of people tend to prefer singlehood for so many different A reasons, let it be a broken heart from a previous relationship, a traumatic experience or just for the freedom and the fun of it. This Valentine’s Yara El Hashimi brings you 5 signs that help you realize where you stand in relation of that.
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You Know That You Are Enough A lot of people don’t feel like they stand alone well, so they usually need a person to lean on. A person who enjoys being single knows that they can pick themselves up and that they are their best support system. Self-love Self love is a continuous journey throughout your life. You are very aware that there will be different phases in your life, where you’ll feel good and ready and that there will be phases, where you hit a hiccup in the road and potentially need to work on self-love again. That doesn’t freak you out. You Always Like to Learn More About Yourself It takes so much time to figure out who you are on your own. When you’re around other people all the time and when we need to be with somebody all the time, we kind of lose track of what we actually like because when we hang out with other people, there’s usually some sort of compromise, which is fine. Of course you hang around people that have likeminded interests as you, which is really helpful, but for the most part, you are your own individual, seeking out who you are.
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You Enjoy Being Alone Its important to be able to draw the line between being alone and being lonely. You are very much aware that being in a relationship can make you feel lonelier than if you are single. You don’t mind doing activities such as, brunch or going to the movies on your own, in fact, you wind up enjoying yourself more than you would with a partner. You are your main focus You’re constantly trying to improve yourself personally and professionally. The idea of having someone that would demand so much or even little of your time, is a matter worth reconsidering and sometimes ends in rejecting the entire relationship just so you wouldn’t find yourself caught up in a situation like that. Your goals and personal interest are you’re one and only priority, you wouldn’t allow any distraction to prevent you from reaching those goals.