Mp issue #96 June-August 2018Men's passion by Men's Passion Magazine

KUWAIT AROUND THE WORLD The Kuwait Fund

IFCS

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ISSUE NUMBER 96 - JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2018

JUST A THOUGHT

Dear Passionate Readers, Breathe …. Just breathe … How hard can that be? When one of my friends came to me with the idea of travelling for a ‘Transformational Breath’ workshop, I jumped at the opportunity. Firstly, I truly enjoy her company. She is one of the few people who truly is abundant in her knowledge and in her ability to reach out and give to others; a true inspiration. Secondly, after all the stress I have to go through (or opt to go through), I really felt I needed a break and a ‘breathing break’ sounded like just what the doctor would order. Thirdly, the location of the workshop in Mauritius was itself appealing. As such, I prepared myself to go for some fresh air and a change of scenery. Little did I know what I was signing myself up for!! When you become aware of every breath you take... when you allow the purity of your own breath to reach every single cell in your body, mind and your emotions... questioning... probing... forcing you to reconnect with your own breath, with yourself and with your soul... indeed the workshop was far more than taking a breather... It was taking the breath that transforms! With that my readers, I leave you to enjoy your summer. May it allow you the space for a long, deep breath. See you again in September and the meantime remember you can always check our latest on passionsarabia.com

Zeina Mokaddam Managing Director

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ON THE COVER: June - August 2018

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nouf Al-Hajri

Since 1961, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development has been the nation’s most benevolent ambassador of the global stage.

LEGAL CONSULTANT Khaled Al-Kandari Al-Kandari Law Firm

It was planning a role in raising Kuwait’s profile around the world from within the earliest days of the infancy of the state. It continues to do so, changes the face of nations and is improving the lives of people. Throughout the next pages we look at the extent of the Kuwait Fund’s commitment, sector by sector. It reveals a story of planning, wisdom, generosity of spirit, as well as sound commerical and financial competence.

KUWAIT AROUND THE WORLD The Kuwait Fund

CONCIERGE

The Luxe Review

60 62 64 67 68 69 70 72 74

DRIVE

DESIGN

22 On the road with the new Porsche Cayenne 24 Audi’s Elevating Experience 26 Ferrari Portofino 27 Into thin air - VW at Pikes Peak 28 The Cullinan in Kuwait 30 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 32 The Art of (Porsche) Photography

10 The Development Edition 12 Energy 14 Chernobyl and Kuwait 16 Transport 18 Water and Sanitation

WATCHES 36 39 40 41 42 43 44 46 47 48

Hublot x Shepard Fairey Ulysse Nardin Freaks You Out Knights of the Round Table III Burling and Tuke - Omega ambassadors IWC expands its Portofino line L.U.C XPS 1860 Red Carpet Edition Rado DiaMaster Ceramos Tissot Chrono XL NBA Team Collection Tissot T-Race Cycling Oris’s nod to the past that points to the future

STYLE 50 Hugo Boss 52 Gucci 54 Ermenegildo Zegna 56 Pitti Immagine Uomo

MANAGING DIRECTOR Zeina Mokaddam GENERAL MANAGER Chimene Ibrahim MANAGING EDITOR Simon Balsom EDITOR Rawan Qabazard

CONTENTS The Development Edition The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development - developing nations globally

PUBLISHED BY

Top Destinations J’aime Paris Mandarin Oriental, Paris Mandarin Oriental, Muscat Literary London New York Bagels Grand Tour - Summer Listings An Oasis of Luxury Four Seasons Hotel at Burj Alshaya Faisal Fahad Al Nashmi - Culinary explorer

La Biennale di Venezia

CULTURE 78 Rain Room 79 On Set with filmmaker Azza Abdul Wahab Al Jamal FLY 80

2018’s Finest New Private Jets

WELLNESS 82 83

Flexitarian Diet Sports Drinks - good or bad?

PASSIONSARABIA.COM 84 What’s trending on passionsarabia.com? EVENTS 86

What’s going on around town?

CONTRIBUTOR Zahra Husain IN-HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY Maher Al-Nouri

PH7 is a specialized publishing house based in Kuwait. Telephone +(965) 2572 0810 Fax +(965) 2572 0860 Website www.ph7-kw.com To maintain the desired quality of our publication, your contribution and feedback are welcomed. Please email your suggestions to info@ph7-kw.com For advertising, please contact info@ph7-kw.com For subscription, please email info@ph7-kw.com PH7 wishes to state that the opinions expressed in MEN’S PASSION are those of the authors concerned and not necessarily those of the publisher. BPA Audited - 2015

Me and my Paul&Shark.

ARRAYA CENTRE - GROUND FLOOR - 22997680

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THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

The Development Edition Kuwait... around the world

ince its independence in 1961, the State of Kuwait has been participating in the economic developmental efforts, motivated by its firm belief in the principles of cooperation and humanities. Therefore, Kuwait proceeded to establish the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the first institution in the Middle East to take an active role in the international developmental efforts. The Kuwait Fund extends loans on concessionary terms to finance development projects in developing countries. The Fund also provides technical assistance to finance the costs of the feasibility studies of projects, as well as the training of nationals of the recipient countries. In addition, the Fund subscribes in the capital of international and regional development institutions. Today, Kuwait Fund forms a solid bridge of friendship and solidarity between the State of Kuwait and the developing nations. From its establishment in 1961, and with paid-up capital of just KD50 million, the Kuwait Fund has gone on to change the face and future of nations. In its first year of full operation, 1962, it extended three loans to three countries with total commitments of US$47 million. A little over 55 years later, The Fund has assisted projects to the tune of more than US$20 billion.

The number of projects financed by the Fund during the financial year 2016/2017, reached 26 projects with a total loan commitment of around KD 292 million covering, transport, energy, water and sewerage and agriculture, in addition to social and other sectors. The recipient countries included 4 Arab countries, 10 African countries, 3 East, South Asian and Pacific countries, 3 Latin American and Caribbean countries, and one central Asian and European country. The share of Arab countries of total commitments reached 53.66%, African countries 25.86%, East, South Asian and Pacific countries 11.99%, Latin American and Caribbean countries 5.75% and central Asian and European countries 2.74%. As to the sectoral distribution of these loans, Water and Sewerage sector ranked first with 47.50%, followed by the Transport sector 34.93%, then the social sector 7.53%, then the Energy sector with 6.61%, the Agriculture sector 2.05% and the Development Banks Sector 1.37%. Since 1961, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development has been the nation’s most benevolent ambassador of the global stage. It was planning a role in raising Kuwait’s profile around the world from within the earliest days of the infancy of the state. It continues to do so, changes the face of nations and is improving the lives of people. Throughout the next pages we look at the extent of the Kuwait Fund’s commitment, sector by sector. It reveals a story of planning, wisdom, generosity of spirit, as well as sound commerical and financial competence. It is our salute to the Kuwait Fund.

THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

The Kuwait Fund was established to assist Arab and other developing countries in developing their economies particularly by providing them with loans required for the implementation of their development programs.

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THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

Energy

The Kuwait Fund supporting the energy sector

he international community agrees on that energy provision for the entire population of the world is a pillar of development. As a result, and within the framework of the post-2015 development agenda and Sustainable Development Goals, delivering affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all has become the latest of those goals.

Kuwait Fund has provided about 160 loans with a total value of more than KD1.5 billion (about US $ 5.2 billion) for energy projects since its establishment in 1961 up to 1st of July 2016.

Within this context, while Kuwait Fund strives to achieve these goals, it respects its well established principles that were laid over more than fifty years of development work. Those principles are: (i) respect of development priority projects as determined by developing countries, and (ii) application of relevant procedures to ensure technical and financial feasibility together with legal suitability, to ensure project implementation within the respective timeframe and allocated resources. This is in addition to provision of institutional support and training for the executing agency workers, which may be required for project implementation and operation. This comes out of the Fund belief that human capacity is needed and necessary to benefit from extended concessional and unconditional finance, in addition to development of technical capacity in beneficiary countries. In responding to development priorities as identified by beneficiary countries, Kuwait Fund has provided about 160

loans with a total value of more than K.D. 1.5 billion (about US $ 5.2 billion) for energy projects since its establishment in 1961 up to 1st of July 2016. Those loans are about 27% out of a total of 915 loans concluded with a total value exceeding K.D. 5.6 billion (more than about US $ 19.2 billion) up to that same date Energy Sector is the Second sector after transport sector, as far as the number and value of the loans extended by the fund stand. The geographic spread of the Fund operations extends from North Europe to the most south of Africa, and from the far-East in Asia to the west in Latin America. The Fund operations encompass all energy sector activities, starting with electricity generation from its various resources. The Fund extends concessional finance to electricity generation projects, in cooperation with other development institutions when necessary, within a context of commitment towards safety standards and environment conservation. In this respect, numerous examples of the Fund activities reveal its openness to supporting projects with different technologies,

THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

The geographic spread of the Fund operations extends from North Europe to the most south of Africa, and from the far-East in Asia to the west in Latin America.

whether thermal generation stations, large hydro, or renewable energy projects. Furthermore, the Fund operations extend to encompass transmission networks whether inside a single country or for interconnection with neigbouring grids. Within this setting, the Fund extended finances for projects with a regional nature, including the Egyptian-Saudi interconnection, and interconnection projects of Senegal River Development Organization (OMVS) and the Gambia River Development Organization (OMVG), in addition to distribution networks. Moreover, the Fund did not hesitate in providing necessary financing for rural electrification projects whether in Africa or in Asia. In conclusion, while Kuwait Fund feels its responsibility towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals, including the seventh goal pertaining availability of modern sustainable energy for all at economic cost, it abides by its anchored traditions of respecting beneficiary countries priorities in determination of their projects and support for technical capacities, without prejudice to safety standards or environment conservation.

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THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

Chernobyl and Kuwait Kuwait’s role in ensuring nuclear containment

n April 26th, 1986, the world witnessed the worst nuclear disaster in nuclear industry history; the Chernobyl disaster. The explosion of unit 4 of Chernobyl nuclear power plant resulted in the complete destruction of the reactor core, the protection barriers, and the safety systems. The explosion caused the release of radioactive materials to contaminate the surrounding environment and to spread over large distances, during the accident active stage, which lasted for ten days following the accident.

The immediate loss of life reached some 30 workers within weeks of the accident. A 30 km “exclusion zone” has been imposed since that time, after the forced evacuation of about 200,000 people. Nonetheless, the destruction and scale of disaster brought by Chernobyl, was the motive for many countries, including Kuwait, to cooperate in this critically important field. Chernobyl Unit 4 containment effort started in 1986. Since that time, continuous and enduring international effort has been put for the safe confinement of the disaster site together with the safe disposal of the radioactive constituents of the stricken reactor. With the extremely dangerous situation that prevailed in the aftermath of 1986 accident, there was an urgent need for a swift action to contain unit 4 together with its nuclear fuel. Consequently, and upon the decision of the former USSR Council of Ministers in November 1986, a confinement structure, also known as the “Shelter”, was built to contain unit 4 together with about 200 tons of nuclear fuel. The fuel was mixed with 5,000 tons of sand, lead and boric acid. However, rising concerns regarding the deteriorating conditions of the Shelter urged the international community to seek action for a long term solution for the confinement of the stricken reactor.

THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

To that end, and upon the initiative of the G7 and EC together with Ukraine in 1997, a team of international and Ukrainian nuclear experts developed the Chernobyl Shelter Implementation Plan (SIP) as a roadmap to transform the Shelter into an ecologically safe system. Moreover, the Chernobyl Shelter Fund was set up at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), to administer the resources of the operation. The SIP divides the works into three stages. The first stage, which ended in 2008, was dedicated to preserving the present safety level from deteriorating by improvements of durability and reliability of present structures and systems. The second stage, which started in 2010 and still ongoing, is the construction of the New Safe Confinement together with its facilities that include remotely controlled cranes, equipment for retrieval of radioactive materials and a control center for the safe dismantling, storage and disposal of these materials within the New Safe Confinement. The New Safe Confinement is in the form of a huge hangar, which is 260 m wide and 165 m long. The hangar takes the form of an arch with a height of 110 m. The structure is designed to contain and isolate the Shelter from the surrounding environment. Moreover, it is furnished with a sophisticated ventilation system to minimize the risk of corrosion. The whole structure is designed to endure extreme weather conditions including temperature variation from -43oC to +45oC and wind speeds up to 332 km/h. The New Safe Confinement is designed for a minimum of 100 years lifetime. It is worth mentioning that all works and efforts are within the framework of cooperation with the Government of Ukraine to obtain its approval on all proposed design, with complete consideration of workers protection from radiation leakage. The third stage comes upon the completion of the NSC, which is the dismantling and the management process of radioactive material within the confinement. The New Safe Confinement completion is expected during 2017. The contracted works of the New Safe Confinement reached more than â&#x201A;Ź2,000 million by October 2015, provided from more than 40 countries. In this respect, State of Kuwait, through Kuwait Fund, has stepped in to support Chernobyl Shelter Fund since its inception. In 1998, Kuwait Fund extended a grant of US$ 4 million, followed by another grant in 2005 with US$ 2 million. The Fund further provided two grants of US$ 5.2 million and US$3.8 million, to bridge the New Safe Confinement financing gap, in 2011 and 2015 respectively. It is worth noting that Kuwait Fund maintains continuous follow up of all Chernobyl Shelter Fund projects, operations and budget in cooperation with other donor countries and institutions to foster partnership among them in this critical domain to enable the safe use of nuclear energy for future generations.

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THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

Transport

The Kuwait Fund supporting the transport sector

ransport constitutes the backbone of infrastructure in any country. The integration and high efficiency of this sector has positive implications on the success of other development sectors in the country. With this fact in mind, transport has been accorded a substantial portion of Kuwait Fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contributions to financing infrastructure projects up to 31/12/2015 the Fund extended 372 loans in the transport sector, distributed over 82 developing countries. These Loans totaled nearly K.D. 1.9 billions (about US$ 6.4 billions) i.e. 34 % of the total amount of the loans of the Fund.

Perhaps the key reason of focusing on transport sector loans is that benefciary countries experienced several developmental needs during the years following their independence. These needs include: 1 - The need for food supplies and medical aid to reach remote locations scattered over vast areas of the country. This was achieved either by paving new roads or constructing sea, river, and air ports. 2 - The need of the agricultural and industrial sectors for effective and all-year-round active means of transport irrespective of climatic conditions, so as to link the production areas with marketing, consumption and export centers. 3 - Achieving the national unity via linking small and remote villages and inhabitant clusters with urban and administrative centers, so as to benefit from administratives eductional, health and social services. 4 - Linking the land locked countries that have no sea outlets with the outer world, via regional and international transport networks. 5 - Meeting the increasing demand by stretching the transport network in order to satisfy the continuously increasing passenger

THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

and cargo transport volumes. Achieving one or more of the above objectives constituted a major factor that encouraged developing countries to apply for Kuwait Fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soft loans to improve their transport sector. The Fund financed numerous transport projects to be implemented utilizing sound engineering standards, and up to date specifications. The designs of all these projects ensures safety requirements including, for road projects, international traffic signs, effective road markings, traffic signals, side protective barriers, preventive measures against land-slides, in addition to other modern safety options. There are numerous landmarks that witness the Fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role as a permanent development partner to many countries, during the past 54 years, from China in the Far East to Central & South America in the West, and from Central Europe in the North to Southern Africa. This fact ensures the role of the Kuwait Fund in supporting the transport sector worldwide.

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THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

Water and Sanitation

The Kuwait Fund working to improve lives

n a world confronted with increasing water scarcity and major environmental challenges, and cognizant of the central role water and sanitation contribute to sustainable development, the Fund continues to support the water and sanitation sector in developing nations drawing from its vast experience acquired through decades of sector support. With more than 80 projects, thus far, totaling more than USD 1.6 billion, the water and sanitation portfolio is the fourth largest portfolio in the Fund operations.

Today, about 2.5 billion people are estimated to remain

Kuwait Fund Water and Sanitation Operations

lack access to safe drinking water. This causes substantial

With more than 80 projects, thus far, totaling more than USD

children, leading to significant economic losses and slower

portfolio in the Fund operations.

without basic sanitation, and at least 780 million people health issues and jeopardizes human life, especially for GDP growth in some countries. In addition, analysis suggest

1.6 billion, the water and sanitation portfolio is the fourth largest

that with current trends, the world will face a 40 percent

Project Activities

supply of water by 2030; Feeding a planet of nine billion

Kuwait Fund continues to extend its support to the water and

global shortfall between projected demand and available by 2050 will require approximately 50 percent more water.

Realizing the pivotal role water and sanitation play in

sanitation sector through funding projects. Typical project activities include, yet are not limited to:

socioeconomic development, improving people’s wellbeing

• Supporting planning and identification of appropriate

progressively supporting developing nations achieve their

• Water and sanitation infrastructure development.

and fulfilling their human rights, the Fund has been

water and sanitation Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)

sustainably. In view of its mandate to achieve sustainable

development, the Fund is fully aligned with the post 2015 agenda. Throughout the years, Kuwait Fund evolved as a close partner to many developing nations in this sector.

technologies.

• Public awareness including water conservation, the critical

role water and sanitation contribute to reducing the incidence of waterborne diseases.

• Capacity strengthening and building.

• Institutional strengthening of relevant government institutions.

THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

Achievements Over decades of concerted efforts supporting recipient governments achieve their national development goals, Kuwait Fund’s support to the water and sanitation sector has resulted in improving people’s access to sustainable water and sanitation services in many developing nations through the numerous FUND supported projects in addition to creating employment opportunities, and strengthening the capacity of water and sanitation institutions. What are Some Examples of The Kuwait Fund Projects The Shariqiah Sands Basin Water Supply Project Sultanate of Oman The project aimed at providing access to safe drinking water to the people of six small towns distributed across several provinces. The FUND extended a loan totaling USD 33 million covering about 37% of project costs. The project included the drilling and equipping of 29 groundwater wells, laying of about 420 kilometers of transmission and distribution pipelines, construction of 10 water reservoirs, consulting services and institutional support. Shouzhou Environmental Rehabilitation Project The People’s Republic of China The project aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the people of Shouzhou City through reducing the public health and environmental hazards associated with sub-optimal waste systems in addition to reducing the daunting risks associated with flooding. The Fund extended a loan totaling USD 35 million covering about 52% of project costs. The project included the implementation of flood protection measures on Kinglou River stretch within the city, cleaning of the water lakes located within the city, rehab i l i t a t i o n a n d e x p a n s i o n o f t h e s e w e r a g e system and construction of the city wastewater t r e a t m e n t f a c i l i t y.

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THE DEVELOPMENT EDITION

Renovation of the Water Supply, Stormwater Drainage and Sanitation Systems in the City of Pyongyang The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea The project aimed at reducing the severe shortage in potable water supply and minimizing the health hazards associated with exposure to wastewater for about 3 million residents in addition to environmental protection in the City of Teh. The Fund extended a loan totaling USD 44 million covering about 40% of project costs. The water supply component of the project included rehabilitation and upgrading of the system through rehabilitation of 6 water treatment facilities, laying of about 1,200 kilometers of transmission and distribution pipelines and installation of 163 pumping units in 26 existing water pumping stations. The wastewater component of the project included rehabilitation and upgrading of the system through installation of 130 pumping units in 27 existing wastewater pumping stations and rehabilitation of the city’s main wastewater treatment facility. Rehabilitation of the Water Supply Systems in the Towns of Santiago de Cuba and Holguin The Republic of Cuba The project aimed at improving the socio economic conditions of the two cities’ residence totaling nearly 0.8 million people through addressing the acute water shortage in the 2 towns. The Fund extended a loan totaling USD 26 million covering about 44% of project costs. The project included the rehabilitation of the; water treatment facilities; pumping stations; storage tanks; water supply networks, and installation of water meters. National Rural Water Supply Programme-Stage III, Village and Pastoral Water Supply Project The Republic of Mali The project aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the people of 5 regions in the Republic of Mali through providing adequate access to potable water. The project represented the third stage of the National Rural Water Supply Programme, all of which has been supported by the Fund. The Fund extended a loan totaling USD 11 million covering about 92% of project costs. Al-Shurouk City Wastewater Project Republic of Egypt The project aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions in Egypt, at large, through providing the basic services required for promoting relocation to this new settlement and minimizing the health hazards associated with untreated wastewater to the people of Al-Shurouk City in specific. The Fund extended a loan totaling USD 21 million covering about 78% of project costs. The project included the construction of the city wastewater treatment facility and the utilization scheme of the treated effluent in irrigation.

THE LIFE REFINED Our carefully curated guide to the finest from the spheres of horology, automobiles, style, travel, design and much more. In The Life Refined we look at the best, and meet the people that are making it happen.

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THE LIFE REFINED

Shurooq Salmeen

On the road with the new Porsche Cayenne

Our Managing Director, Zeina Mokaddam, was among the first to drive the new third generation Cayenne earlier this year - in Fujairah. This time she was curious to see how it would perform on the streets of Kuwait and invited Shurooq Salmeen along for a drive too.

hurooq Salmeen has very many strings to her bow. Owner and designer at label Sash, you’re likely to already be one of her more than one-million Instagram followers. She knows what she likes, and she’s a great judge of what’s hot and what’s not. Who better to check out Porsche’s third generation Cayenne on Kuwait City’s streets?

We’d already been off-road with the third generation Porsche Cayenne, and you can read our glowing report of it at our online partner publication passionsarabia.com, but how would it prove itself on the urban cycle? Outwardly the new Cayenne (Porsche refer to it as the E3) is sharper in all details. Let’s not forget, the Cayenne has been with us for a decade-and-a-half. As good as the second generation model was, with the E3 Porsche have upped the game for everyone in the SUV sector. For sure, Shurooq was impressed. The smooth drive and the high levels of comfort belied the fact that this is an automobile that is just as at home in the desert as it is on the Corniche. It’s not just good to drive for an SUV, it’s good to drive, period.

And there are reasons why... intriguingly most of these involve technology that is usually reserved for sports cars. On the E3, the rear wheels now help to steer - it’s the same as on a 911. You can drive it even more confidently in to corners - faster too, if you wish. What’s the feeling like? There’s a mild sensation that something’s different - as if the steering is oversensitive - but it’s a sensation that is soon replaced by the knowledge the the Porsche engineers have done the thinking for you. This is a car that makes driving in every situation just that little bit easier and that little bit more pleasant. The smooth ride comes courtesy of Porsche’s new, optional three-chamber air suspension. Now there’s a genuinely noticeable change between the comfortable modes and the more sporty ones. Set it in the softest mode, and you’ve got almost limo-quality comfort, all day long. Go off-road - or at speed down some of our city’s less well-surfaced roads - and you’ll feel the benefit not just in terms of body control but in ride comfort on those rough surfaces. Again the engineers have planned ahead, and a new 48V electrical system also helps - it means that the anti-roll bars are faster than the old hydraulic ones... they’ll adjust to the road before you realise they’re required to. You’ll be building a picture here. The E3 Cayenne is a car for all seasons, all situations and all drivers. There are a lot of complex technologies involved in keeping the driver and passengers comfortable as well as safe. The beauty is, as an owner or occupant, we’re required to know absolutely nothing about

DRIVE

The Cayenne is based heavily on the iconic 911 sports car, and now Porsche have introduced the third generation. Sporty and precise with a clear design – new and yet familiar, the appearance of the Cayenne has been enhanced in the style that runs through the Porsche Design DNA.

the details - all we need to do is sit deep within the Cayenne’s comfortable seats and reap the benefits of the engineers’ enthusiasm for building the best Porsche SUV ever. Performance traffic-light to traffic-light is more than enough to keep the busy Shurooq on schedule. The Turbo model (with launch control) rockets from 0–100 in 3.9secs. That’s half a second quicker than the second generation Cayenne which was no slouch. This is performance that some sportscars can only dream of. Porsche wrings it out of an SUV - and comfortably so. Acceleration like this deserves special brakes. Check. Some jumbo brakes are fitted for when the time comes to stop – optional ceramics in the Turbo, or optional new tungstencarbide-coated steels in the others. Also, there’s a new, active rear spoiler. It’ll pop up to aid high-speed stability and it’ll pop up even more to act as an air brake. So, for Shurooq, she discovered a sportscar manifested in the form of an SUV. Space abounds - trunk space, rear-seat comfort and leg-room, storage, even those vital cup-holders. It’s a totally practical automobile - mild-mannered and soothing. Yet, switch modes and deliver your intructions with a heavier right foot, and you’ve got a sportscar that is so well envisioned and engineered that it’s not going to let go at an awkward moment. The third generation Cayenne is one car - but it feels like the sum of so many more.

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THE LIFE REFINED

Audi’s Elevating Experience The new Audi A8: “Vorsprung” redefined

ince its introduction in 1994, Audi’s flagship A8 has remained at the pinnacle of engineering excellence not just for the Ingolstadt marque, but across the automotive sector. Now, with its fourth generation, Audi has again provided the benchmark for “Vorsprung durch Technik” – with a new design language, an innovative touchscreen operating concept and a systematically electrified drive. Audi will gradually be taking piloted driving functions such as parking pilot, garage pilot and traffic jam pilot into production for the Middle East market once the legislation has been validated. With news of this, our Zeina Mokaddam (right) grasped the opportunity to slide behind the new A8’s wheel and experience this latest generation for herself. The fourth-generation Audi A8 has the Mercedes S-Class in its sights and, with this target in mind, it’s beautifully made and sumptuously finished. Technology abounds within and, while much of it is hidden away, even then you wonder where this is going to take us anyway but remember what we see on the A8 today will surely find its way on to the A3 and A4 of tomorrow. The fourth-generation Audi A8 ushers in yet another new era for the big saloon, as one of the world’s first production cars to be developed with autonomous driving in mind. It also presents a new design language for the brand, along with a new touchscreen operating system and an even greater focus on tech. The new A8 is more powerful, more economical and bigger than the previous model, and the level of standard specification

DRIVE

is generous, including LED front and rear lights, adaptive air suspension, Virtual Cockpit, high-definition colour head-up display, Internet-based Audi Connect services, MMI Navigation Plus, wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control and an LED interior lighting pack. Upgrade to the long-wheelbase version and the spec is even more luxurious, especially for passengers in the back. Heated rear seats, four-zone climate control, two additional USB ports, electric sunblinds for the rear windows, comfort rear headrests and the ability to control various functions via a removable tablet deliver a limo-like experience. The new car is actually 95kg heavier than before, but performance remains strong, with the petrol version accelerating to 100kph in 5.6 seconds. Opt for the longwheelbase version and the sprint time increases to 5.7 seconds. The top speed hits its ceiling long after you began breaking the law – at 250kph. The interior of the A8 resembles a lavish, spacious lounge. Compared to the predecessor model, it has grown in length by 32 millimeters in both body versions. The interior has been deliberately reduced in form, and its architecture oriented strictly horizontally. In darkness, contour and ambient lighting elegantly outlines the striking design lines. New for the rear compartment are precisely controllable Matrix LED reading lights. The range of equipment and materials is extensive, with every detail radiating superlative bespoke quality – from the perforation in the seat upholstery to the electrically opening and closing decorative shutters on the air vents and the satiny leather of the comfort head restraints.

‘Vorsprung Durch Technik’ This German phrase is usually translated into English as ‘progress through technology’. A literal translation would be ‘advancement through technology’. There’s no single English word which is an exact English equivalent of ‘vorsprung’; but ‘to leap ahead’ comes close.

The A8 can also engage in intelligent conversation. The driver can activate an array of functions in the automobile using a new, natural form of voice control. Information on destinations and media is either available on board or is delivered from the cloud at LTE speed. The driver can freely formulate spoken commands – the voice recognition system understands such sentences in English such as “Please take me to the Four Seasons at Burj Alshaya”. Which is more than most taxi drivers can do so, if even for this reason alone, you should probably buy the excellent new Audi A8.

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THE LIFE REFINED

Ferrari Portofino Now in Kuwait with Al Zayani Trading

l Zayani Trading, the official importer of Ferrari in Kuwait, welcomed the latest model from the iconic Ferrari stable, the Ferrari Portofino. The new model arrived to the market beginning of May showcasing perfect combination of outright performance and versatility in addition to a level of driving pleasure and on-board comfort unparalleled on the market.

Ferrari has chosen a particularly evocative name for this exceptionally versatile drop-top car. Portofino is renowned for its charming port and, over the years, has become internationally synonymous with elegance, sportiness and understated luxury. The launch colour of the new Ferrari has also been dedicated to this marvellous town: Rosso Portofino. Capable of unleashing a massive 600 cv and sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, the Ferrari Portofino is the most powerful convertible to combine the advantages of a retractable hard top, a roomy boot and generous cockpit space plus two rear seats suitable for short trips. The Ferrari Portofino’s all-new chassis features a significant weight saving over the California T it replaces. Thanks to the extensive use of modern production technologies, all the chassis and body-in-white components have been redesigned with a consequent reduction in weight despite an increase in torsional rigidity. The Portofino is a Ferrari designed to be driven every day that also effortlessly converts from an authentic ‘berlinetta’ coupé to a drop-top capable of delivering a unique Ferrari soundtrack and superb driving pleasure even in day-to-day situations.

DRIVE

Into thin air - VW at Pikes Peak Volkswagen Motorsport breaks new technological ground

t first glance, it is clear to see that the I.D. R Pikes Peak has been developed for extreme conditions. The aerodynamic aspect of Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car is also uncompromisingly designed to tackle the most famous hill climb in the world. Volkswagen Motorsport used a scale mode (1:2) to test a host of different variants of the Pikes Peak racer in the wind tunnel.

“The start line is located at an altitude of almost 2,900 metres, with the finish at 4,300 metres above sea level. The low air pressure up there means that the aerodynamic conditions are different to those at a racetrack on flat land,” explains François-Xavier Demaison, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport and the man responsible for developing the I.D. R Pikes Peak as project manager. The relatively open regulations gave the engineers far more leeway, with which to design the chassis and rear wing of the I.D. R Pikes Peak, than in other racing disciplines. During the winding 19.99-kilometre drive to the summit of Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, a top speed of around 240 km/h is reached – this is relatively low for a prototype like the I.D. R Pikes Peak, as it could theoretically do far more than this. “For this reason, we concentrated mainly on achieving optimal cornering speeds. The entire chassis is designed to generate as much downforce as possible, without causing too much aerodynamic drag,” says François-Xavier Demaison, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport. Driver Romain Dumas and the team then begin the final phase of their preparations for Pikes Peak on 24 June. The goal is to break the record in the class for electric prototypes, which currently stands at 8:57.118 minutes.

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The Cullinan in Kuwait Exclusive unveiling at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive

This is freedom absolute. The first all-terrain SUV from Rolls-Royce makes luxury off-road travel a reality for the first time. Pinnacle luxury is now effortless, everywhere.

li Alghanim & Sons Automotive Co, the exclusive importer and authorized dealer of RollsRoyce Motor Cars in Kuwait, has officially unveiled the new Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The Cullinan, the first-ever SUV in the history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, was unveiled to privileged guests, top tier customers and invited members of the press at an exclusive invite-only event held at the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Showroom.

DRIVE

The new Rolls-Royce Cullinan was officially unveiled to distinguished guests, industry figures and members of the media at an exclusive unveiling in Kuwait. See the unveiling on page 88 of this issue of Men’s Passion.

Hosted by Abbas Ashmar, Rolls-Royce Brand manager at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the event highlighted the stunning array of engineering achievements and design features that make the Cullinan one of the finest luxury SUVs on the market today. Marking Rolls-Royce’s debut in the SUV market, the Cullinan has been created to meet the demands of customers in the region and around the globe who desire a combination of high-end refinement, superior comfort and powerful off-road capabilities. The Cullinan is a true ‘Effortless Everywhere’ SUV. Equally at home off-road or in the city, it offers uncompromised luxury to allow the driver and passengers to fully embrace and enjoy the world around them, wherever they dare to go. The Cullinan represents the culmination of Rolls-Royce’s long and celebrated history. It is the natural evolution of the carmaker’s

luxury concept, from delivering the ultimate in urban transport to fully embracing every environment and conquering every terrain. Unmistakably a true Rolls-Royce, the Cullinan’s immense road presence and uncompromising stature is complemented by key luxury design touches for unrivalled interior refinement. Created to take the world in its stride, the ‘Effortless Everywhere’ ethos behind the creation of this luxury SUV is powered by a 6.75 V12, twin turbo engine delivering 567 horsepower, meaning the Cullinan provides an effortless driving experience. Mr. Ashmar said, “The Cullinan marks the next stage in the ongoing development of Rolls-Royce in the Middle East. The region continues to be an important market for Rolls-Royce and we are sure the Cullinan will prove to be popular with luxury SUV customers who demand a higher level of performance and comfort.”

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Grand Prix de Monaco Historique with Chopard - official timer

“Gentlemen, please start your engines”… These words marked the official start of the 11th Monaco Historic Grand Prix on May 11th, under a sunny sky. This unique event - that runs every two years - is one of the best classic car races in Europe. Chopard served as the official timekeeper at this famous circuit car race, which attracted over 30 000 spectators and more than 500 journalists from all over the world. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, CoPresident of Chopard noted: ““We have a true passion for cars and classic racing and this is probably the best event you can find on the circuit anywhere in the world. I would like to congratulate the Automobile Club de Monaco on the tremendous work they do in the field of classic cars, and to salute the enduring quality of their organisation over the years. It is a true honour for Chopard to be associated again with the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique.” Monaco’s racing track is one the most renowned and demanding in the world. Each category in the race celebrated winners from all over the world. All these pilots won a Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2018 Race Edition timepiece in titanium and stainless steel presented to them during the prize giving gala dinner by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. Along with Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, renowned pilots and friends of the Maison, Jacky Ickx, Derek Bell, Vanina Ickx, Vic Elford participated to the event driving the Chopard parades celebrating the 70th anniversary of Porsche. They all had a fantastic experience driving the parades on the famous circuit of Monaco. They put their helmet on and gave special runs in unique racing cars from Porsche. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele drove the Porsche 550 Spyder RS, a loan from Porsche Museum. Jacky Ickx chose the Porsche 936 Jules, the same car as the one he used to win Le Mans in 1981. Derek Bell and Vanina Ickx respectively went on the racetrack driving a Porsche 804 F1 from 1962 and a Porsche 718 F2 from 1960. For each edition of the Grand Prix since 2002, Chopard has created dedicated timepieces. The Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2018 Race Edition watches, issued in limited editions of 250 in titanium and stainless steel and 100 in 18-carat rose gold, titanium and stainless steel are authentic driver’s instruments created for gentlemen drivers. Available on a blue calfskin leather strap with orange stitching or on a blue NATO bracelet with orange stripes, these COSC-certified chronographs are imbued with the technical spirit of classic racing and are designed to support drivers during this exceptional competition.

he eleventh edition of the most prestigious event on the classic racing circuit took place from May 11th to 13th 2018. Every two years, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique brings together drivers and devotees of historical cars for a competition driven on vintage racing cars. Chopard has been serving as sponsor and official timekeeper of the event since 2002, a natural alliance for a house whose vocation for highprecision timekeeping is synonymous with a passion for fine mechanical engineering.

DRIVE

The atmosphere in the pit lane at Monaco. Far left: Karl-Friedrich and Christine Scheufele. Near left: Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Vanina and Jacky Ickx and Derek Bell.

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The Art of (Porsche) Photography Porsche Club Kuwait’s annual photography competition

Eng. Zakaria Dashti, President of Porsche Club Kuwait said: “We are happy to hold such a contest, one that highlights the beauty of Kuwait and recognise the great talents of our members’ automotive photography skills, and who have captured the outstanding moments of Porsche cars of all models.”

he Porsche Club Kuwait held its Photography Contest 2018 under the patronage of the German Embassy in Kuwait and with generous hospitality of Al Hamra Luxury Center as the main Event Sponsor. The Art of Photography and the beauty that is Porsche was expressed by talented club members and photographers who showed the great lines of Porsche models.

DRIVE

The Winners (clockwise, from far left) Colour - Hamed Ashkanani Details - Fahad AlMnayee Event - Thamer Al-Eidan

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Clockwise, from top left - Majid Al-Enizi - Ezz Shalaby - Ahmad Al-Hadhoud

DRIVE

Clockwise, from top left - Ibraheem Sabbah - Abdulaziz AlHusaini - Omar Juma - Fawaz Al-Ostath (winner of black and white category)

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Hublot x Shepard Fairey Collaboration with contemporary street artist

uxury Swiss watchmaker Hublot and Shepard Fairey, American contemporary street artist, graphic designer, activist, and illustrator whose work inspired OBEY Clothing, announced the artist as an official brand ambassador, and unveiled an exclusive new timepiece titled the Big Bang Meca-10 Shepard Fairey. The Shepard Fairey collaboration and the Big Bang Shepard Fairey watch is the latest and most prominent addition to the “Hublot Loves Art” series. Hublot CEO, Ricardo Guadalupe first announced Shepard

site of many early movies. The façade features a huge mural

the new Big Bang Shepard Fairey at the historic Mack Sennett

Fairey and fellow artist Vhils in February 2018.

Fairey as part of the Hublot family, and together they unveiled Studios in the East LA neighborhood of Silver Lake, and

entitled, “American Dreamers” which was painted by Shepard

celebrated with VIPs, media, influencers, and friends of the

Shepard Fairey noted, “Hublot is about craftsmanship and

comedian Joel McHale, artist LOVE WATTS, Spanish artist

about: doing whatever it takes to create a visual that I think is

brand. Notable attendees include rock band Franz Ferdinand,

Okuda, curator of street art exhibition “Beyond The Streets” Roger Gastman, actor Duane McLaughlin, singer Petite

a very refined execution and that to me is what my art is important to create.

Meller, and more.

The amazing thing about working with Hublot is that they say,

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed street food, festive

that I wanted to experiment with and they take a lot of pride

cocktails, and interactive entertainment including a live DJ set

by Shepard Fairey himself! The location, founded in 1916, is one of the oldest surviving film studios in Los Angeles and the

‘we can try anything that you want’; they were open to anything in pushing the envelope in terms of technique. This is a luxury

timepiece so there’s no limitation to the length that Hublot will go to execute something in a beautiful and sophisticated way.”

WATCHES

Shepard Fairey was born in Charleston, S.C. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, R.I. In 1989 he created the “Andre the Giant has a Posse” sticker that transformed into the OBEY GIANT art campaign, with imagery that has changed the way people see art and the urban landscape. His work has evolved into an acclaimed body of art, which includes the 2008 “Hope” portrait of Barack Obama, found at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. After 29 years, his stickers, guerilla street art presence, and more than 85 public murals are recognizable worldwide. His works are in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, the Boston Institute of Contemporary Art, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and many others.

Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot, commented, “Hublot

Hublot’s signature style with the brand’s in-house movement,

consistently first, unique, different. Deliberately thought-

reserve. The timepiece showcases an unusual architectural

and Fairey share a disruptive approach to their art, that is

provoking and brilliantly controversial, Fairey is an icon and

a legend in his field. Once again, Hublot teams with the best of the best. For the first time, the street art star gives life to a miniature ‘mural’ on a time object. The ever-creative rebel has

a gear-driven mechanical aesthetic, and a 10-day power

design based around a construction set, with a stylized

skeleton revealing the originality of a cogwheel power reserve indicator.

transformed our Big Bang Meca-10 into a canvas on which

Developed over a span of two years, its manually-wound

creative work fusing the Hublot take on watchmaking with

parts. A testament to beauty and technical expertise, it has two

he distils his iconic aesthetic codes. The watch becomes a Fairey’s street art.”

The evening also served to unveil the Big Bang Meca-10 Shepard Fairey, co-designed with the artist. The model is part of the Big Bang Meca-10 family, a newer innovation on

skeleton calibre, with a 10-day power reserve, contains 223 barrels parallel to the power reserve indicator: a cogwheel system

with two rakes sliding along a horizontal axis. Accentuating this mechanical architecture, an opening at 3 o’clock sees Shepard Fairey’s “STAR GEAR” logo and unveils a red dot when the

movement is nearing the final days of its power reserve, while

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Fairey’s most recent exhibition “Damaged” was his largest-ever solo fine art exhibition, which ran in Los Angeles November 11, 2017 through December 17, 2017. “Damaged” received record attendance with more than 25,000 people visiting and experiencing the art firsthand. For information, visit www.OBEYGIANT.com a gearwheel at 6 o’clock indicates the exact number of days remaining and the regulating organ, coupled with the small second regulator, appears at 7 o’clock. Another key technical feature is Hublot’s patented “one click” mechanism, which allows the watch strap to be changed quickly and easily to offer variety. Stylistically, the Texalium™ case wears a tribal, floral pattern to mimic the artist’s work, which extends throughout the straps. Additionally, the “Star gear” logo can be found in the 3-o’clock sub dial, which further builds on the overall steampunk vibe. The timepieces come in black and navy blue colorways. Moreover, each piece comes in a presentation case containing a signed and numbered letterpress print “Star Gear Collage Red” or “Star Gear Collage Blue” by the artist, framed in concrete, as an extension of the design and color of the corresponding watch. Shepard Fairey’s art is prominently found throughout various districts of Los Angeles and all over the world. His most recognizable work is his OBEY art project challenging viewers to question authority found on the streets or on a t-shirt, as well as the Barack Obama “Hope” poster which became an iconic representation of the 2008 U.S. presidential campaign. More recent political / humanitarian work of note was “Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité” (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) created in the wake of the Paris terrorist attack of 2016 following the artist’s massive 2015 “Earth Crisis” installation at the Eiffel Tower supporting environmental responsibility. Fairey was the firstever artist to have art installed on the Eiffel Tower. The Hulu documentary OBEY GIANT, was released in late 2017 and includes a view of the artist’s “life, art and dissent.”

WATCHES

Ulysse Nardin Freaks You Out New #FreakMeOut advertising campaign

lysse Nardin presents its new on-line and off-line advertising campaign, appearing worldwide beginning in May 2018. With several different visuals and a film, Ulysse Nardin continues to swim against the tide as it pays homage to more than 170 years of marine heritage.

Ulysse Nardin’s new publicity campaign tells the story of one shark’s odyssey through metropolitan New York and Shanghai.

This shark represents an off-kilter take on the marine theme,

an essential element of the brand ever since its creation in 1846. The campaign, created by the Parisian agency Extreme,

sets the “king of the ocean” out of context from the world of water and into an urban universe. We see him here in the

streets of New York and Shanghai, far from the deep waters and reefs that are his natural habitat. Mysterious, instinctive,

dynamic and self-assured, this predator is the incarnation of action because if he stops moving, he will perish. Always in

movement, he doesn’t wait for things to change: he provokes

change. Powerful, distinguished and efficient, we associate him with success in the world of business and finance.

Freaks are those exceptional, extraordinary, fantastic, non-conformist, and occasionally paranormal free spirits. #FREAKMEOUT, or “surprise me” is the rallying cry of this campaign, last used at the 2018 SIHH. #FREAKMEOUT is a multi-faceted slogan for the timepieces of today.

Ulysse Nardin is speaking to modern explorers, to today’s Ulysses, to those who make their own rules, weigh the anchor and swim against the tide. To Beautiful Freaks.

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Knights of the Round Table III

Roger Dubuis

ith the Excalibur Knights of the Round Table III hyperwatch, Roger Dubuis once again demonstrates the power of the sword. This standout creation is issued as a highly exclusive 28-piece limited edition. This forceful new interpretation of the legend of King Arthur’s Excalibur is inspired by the fabled island of Avalon, regarded as the place where the mighty sword was forged. In a radical combination of disruptive materials, extreme craftsmanship and sophisticated horological complications, state-of-the-art pink gold low poly-sculpted knights gather around a dramatic blue enamel table. Ancient myth meets 21st century art form. Fearlessly coupling a powerful legend with a technical feat and a contemporary artistic approach, the Excalibur Knights of the Round Table III epitomises the no-holds-barred Roger Dubuis approach. A taste for off-the-chart adventures that impels it to take on even the wildest challenges. Originally used for making 3D models and scenes for videogames, low poly art is a technique in which polygonal facets are used to create sculptures or paintings. It is increasingly popular due to its render speed achieved thanks to low polygonal resolution. Used in this instance to create 12 new expressive three-dimensional pink gold knights depicting the hours, it showcases the peerless creativity and dynamism of the Roger Dubuis artisan-warriors and their commitment to ‘disruptive materials and progressive complications’. Vigorous, valiant and virile, each highly detailed, low polysculpted, engraved and hand-finished knight has been entirely redesigned; each points his sword at the Avaloninspired table sculpted from solid blue enamel blocks, a process requiring considerable dexterity and many patient hours of craftsmanship. Framed by an imposing Excalibur 45mm case with a solid caseback, fluted 18K pink gold bezel and matching crown, each dial takes a full 45 hours to create. This mechanical marvel is teamed with a matching blue alligator strap.

WATCHES

Burling and Tuke - Omega ambassadors

Kiwi sailors on time

mega has announced that Peter Burling and Blair Tuke have joined the brand as its newest sailing ambassadors. Two of the world’s most successful young sailors, as crewmates of Emirates Team Zealand in 2017, the two Kiwis lifted the famous America’s Cup. Four years earlier in 2013, they were both winners of the inaugural Red Bull Youth America’s Cup, in which Burling was also the skipper. Proud to welcome the two young sailors into the Omega family, Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of OMEGA, praised Burling and Tuke for their “drive to succeed at the highest level” and went on to say that “Peter and Blair are both hard-working and easy-going, a unique blend of qualities. We’re thrilled to have these two star sailors representing Omega”. Together in the boat, Burling and Tuke have won 6 World Championship medals in the 49er class, including 4 golds from 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. In doing so, they became the first sailors to win four consecutive 49er class World Championships. Burling and Tuke have also claimed two Olympic Games medals in the 49er class. Silver at London 2012 and gold at Rio 2016, where they won by a 43-point margin, the largest points margin of any sailing class at the Olympic Games in over 50 years. The two sailors are also offshore experts. As part of the 201718 Volvo Ocean Race, they are, in fact, on rival teams, with Burling on Team Brunel and Tuke sailing for MAPFRE. For their incredible careers, Burling and Tuke have received many sporting accolades. In 2015, they were named the World Male Sailors of the Year by the International Sailing Federation. In 2016, they were New Zealand’s Flag Bearers at the Olympic Games.

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IWC expands its Portofino line Uses high-quality suede for the first time

WC Schaffhausen is expanding its traditional Portofino Collection by introducing two new variants of the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days with a particular aesthetic charm. On the first, the grey suede strap – used for the first time by IWC – harmonises perfectly with the slate-coloured dial. With the second, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer combines a steel Milanaise mesh bracelet with a blue dial for the first time. Since its launch in 1984, the Portofino Collection by IWC

Schaffhausen has appealed to discerning watch enthusiasts who value the charm and virtues of the Italian way of life. Now

the manufacturer is expanding the collection by introducing two new variants of the iconic Portofino with an eight-day handwound movement.

For the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days (ref. IW510115), IWC

uses suede as the strap material for the first time. With its soft, roughened surface, suede is not only visually attractive; the material is also exceptionally comfortable to wear. In addition, the colour of the grey suede harmonises perfectly with the slatecoloured dial. With the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days (ref. IW510116), IWC is offering a new combination of materials and colours. In this variant of the hand-wound classic design, the deep blue dial provides a pleasant contrast to the elegant stainless steel Milanaise bracelet. Both models are driven by a 59210 manufacture calibre and boast 192 hours – or eight days – of reliable and accurate running. After this period, the movement stops automatically, although it is designed to run smoothly for nine days. This guarantees a constant driving torque for eight days. The integrated power reserve with separate dial display reminds the owner to wind up their watch at the right time. In addition, the indexless balance has a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour and, together with the Breguet spring, which is wound following an age-old tradition of watchmaking, helps to make the watch exceptionally accurate. The see-through sapphire glass back allows the user to view the movement, adorned with Côtes de Genève.

WATCHES

L.U.C XPS 1860 Red Carpet Edition Horological excellence on the red carpet

hopard, who has been a partner of the Cannes Film Festival since 1998, proudly presents a new Haute Horlogerie L.U.C watch model specially dedicated to the red carpet. The new L.U.C XPS 1860 Red Carpet Edition celebrates the Maison’s passion for film-making. This watch, issued from a 10-piece limited series, bears the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark and is chronometercertified by the COSC. Chopard and film-making are engaged in an ageless love story built on powerful emotions. In 1998, at the initiative of Chopard Co-President and Creative Director Caroline Scheufele, the Maison became Official Partner of the world’s greatest cinema event: the Cannes Film Festival. Ever since, artists’ appearances on the red carpet and the legendary ‘Montée des marches’ ritual have been accompanied by dazzling creations meticulously crafted in the workshops of Chopard. Its artisans master the art of making far more than merely watches and jewellery, instead giving life to creations synonymous with emotions. Similarly to women, men have just as great of a need to shine alongside actresses in front of the camera flashlights at the Cannes Film Festival, Chopard presents a new edition to its collection of its exceptional L.U.C timepieces, especially designed to be worn on the red carpet: the L.U.C XPS 1860 Red Carpet Edition in 18-carat white gold. This intrinsically exclusive new L.U.C model is issued in a 10-piece limited edition and adorned with a dial in a shade of red reminiscent of the famous carpeting on the staircase climbed by the greatest actors for the presentations of the film in competition at Cannes.

Understated refinement Imbued with elegant simplicity, the L.U.C XPS 1860 watch – famed within the L.U.C collection for its pared-down, modern design – appears attired in red. Its slim 40 mm-diameter 18-carat white gold case frames a red dial, of which the handguilloché centre with its radiating motif reflects the expertise cultivated by Chopard. The sunburst rim is lit up by baguettecut hour-markers, swept over by Dauphine-type hands.

Admirably expressing style and fine craftsmanship, this unique model radiates a prestigious aura on the Cannes red carpet and is set to light up the famous Croisette.

Endowed with the aesthetic codes of the L.U.C collection, this timepiece also features perfectly proportioned lines and houses an in-house manufactured ultra-thin mechanical selfwinding movement. Equipped with a 22-carat micro-rotor and two barrels ensuring approximately 65 hours of operating autonomy, the L.U.C 96.01-L movement measures 3.3 mm thick and displays remarkable precision, certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Its artisanal finishing, visible through the exhibition case-back, testifies the extreme degree of craftsmanship distinguishing Haute Horlogerie creations bearing the ‘Poinçon de Genève’ quality hallmark: bridges meticulously chamfered and adorned with Côtes de Genève, craftsmanship.

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Rado DiaMaster Ceramos

Simply brilliant

implicity is the key to brilliance. With the DiaMaster Ceramos collection, Rado has found the key and brilliance is present in every sense of the word: bright, ingenious and impressive. The classic DiaMaster good looks and clean design are present in both metallic looking models. But here, minimalism is taken to extremes with both the case and pared-down movement lending a streamlined look to a Rado favourite.

WATCHES

Ever since its beginnings in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado has had a pioneering spirit, with the brand philosophy “if we can imagine it, we can make it” still holding true today.

Simply brilliant, the slim new Rado DiaMaster Ceramos models are as minimalist as it gets.

How is all this possible? Simple enough if you’re the master of materials. In place of the high-tech ceramic usually used to create DiaMaster cases, Rado has used its innovative wonder material, CeramosTM. A mix of 90% high-tech ceramic and 10% metal alloy, CeramosTM is injected at high pressure into a precision mould before being sintered to achieve its final hardness. The combination of the high-tech ceramic and the metal alloy is putty in Rado’s hands and has allowed the brand, with its superior knowledge of high-tech materials, to create a steel colour and a new rose gold colour. With both finishes, the colourful sheen is a part of the material and will never fade or lose its shine. The steel colour may be cool and calm, but it’s an alternative to real steel that will retain its good looks for years to come. The rose gold colour is flattering to all skin tones and can be combined with other metals and jewellery without looking out of place.

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Tissot Chrono XL NBA Team Collection Sporty gets smart

he Tissot Chrono XL NBA Team collection, like the players, makes a bold fashion statement, thanks to the large 45mm cases of the watches. This obviously makes for a flawless readability. The collection dedicated to the six NBA teams is full of appealing design quirks, including clear indices and a black dial, which leave the logo and team colours free to be admired. A useful chronograph function adds to the sporty appeal.

The watches, sold in more than 160 countries, are authentic, accessible and use special materials, advanced functionalities and meticulous design.

No detail is left neglected with the Tissot Chrono XL. Slick black PVD coating on the case, coloured stitching on the leather strap and sandblasted finishing, which gives a matte finish, ensures the result is ultra-modern. No sports fan will be able to resist this stylish homage to their favourite team. Tissot has been named Official Timekeeper and Partner of many disciplines, including, basketball with the NBA, FIBA and CBA; cycling with the Tour de France and the UCI World Cycling Championships; motorsports with MotoGPTM and the FIM World Superbike Championship and rugby with the RBS 6 Nations Championship, TOP14, the European Rugby Champions and Challenge Cups. It is also the Official Timekeeper of the World Championships of fencing and ice hockey and of the AFL. Features • Swiss Made • Quartz Chronograph movement • 316L stainless steel case • Water resistance up to a pressure of 10 bar (100 m) • Leather strap with stainless steel standard buckle • All black executions are PVD coating • NBA logo is engraved on the caseback • Diameter: 45mm

WATCHES

Tissot T-Race Cycling An adrenaline-fuelled ride

hether commuting through a busy town, riding idly through beautiful vistas or competing in a race, cycling is a truly popular sport. Tissot is delighted to celebrate the muchloved activity with the Tissot T-Race Cycling collection, which celebrates the sport of endurance and speed. Enthusiasts to professionals, and everyone in between, will love these watches that incorporate bicycle-inspired touches in a smart and stylish tribute. The Tissot T-Race Cycling reflects a bike itself in its sleek

Features

watch is a tribute, from the fork in the frame, reflected in the

•

ergonomic design. Inspired by bicycle features, every part of the bracelet and lugs, the outside of the dial and the tachymeter bezel that represent the wheel, set on a carbon ring, all the way

• •

to brake levers integrated in the pushers and the cassette on

•

reminds us of the chain. If you’re on the go, the time is quick and

•

the caseback and on the crown. The back of the bracelet even

easy to read thanks to large hands and a clear, legible face. The family of watches is available in a variety of different colours, so

everyone can easily find something to love. On the racetrack or at home, this is a watch that will always look good.

• • • • •

Swiss Made

Quartz movement

316L stainless steel case with grey and black PVD

The plus sign in the logo symbolises the Swiss quality and reliability Tissot has shown since 1853.

coating with carbon composite Aluminium bezel

Engraved caseback

Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal

Water-resistant up to a pressure of 10 bar (100 m) Silicone strap with standard buckle

Bicolour grey and black execution is PVD coating Diameter: 44.5mm

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Oris’s nod to the past that points to the future Big Crown Pointer Date collection revives a heritage design Oris Chairman Ulrich Herzog: “The new Big Crown Pointer Date is Oris through and through. It’s a landmark in our rich history, to the point that you could say it’s almost a logo for the company – that’s the strength of its design codes. We are very proud of it and delighted to introduce it to a contemporary audience.”

ris is reintroducing the iconic Big Crown Pointer Date, a signature Oris design that symbolises the independent Swiss company’s long and illustrious history. While the new Oris Big Crown Pointer Date signposts Oris’s rich watchmaking legacy, it is also a contemporary wristwatch designed to appeal to stylish, urbane men and women.

WATCHES

The stories of Oris and aviation are closely linked. Oris was founded in 1904 at the dawn of aviation, and made its first pilot’s pocket watch in the early 1910s. That was followed by the company’s first pilot’s wristwatch in 1917, a watch that featured an ingenious mechanism that meant the watch could only be adjusted when a button was pressed at 2 o’clock. The same spirit of invention inspired the Oris Big Crown, which debuted in 1938. Its oversized crown meant gloved airmen could adjust their watches quickly and easily. Today, Oris’s pilot’s watch collection is full of innovative watches that are trusted by pilots all over the world. The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date is more than a landmark in the company’s archive of inventive, high-performance watches. In the 1980s, it marked a watershed moment for the company when it was reintroduced to spearhead Oris’s mission to champion the eternal value of mechanical watchmaking in the face of the quartz revolution. With its smooth, round case

and tapered lugs, coin-edged bezel, oversized crown, clear, functional dial, and central pointer hand indicating the date, it is one of Oris’s most recognised designs, and one of the most iconic pieces in all of watchmaking. The new models pick up on this story for a new generation of stylish, forward-thinking mechanical watch buyers. Oris’s designers have reworked the case to be slimmer, smoother and more seamless so that it slips elegantly onto the wrist and under a cuff. Much of this contemporary profile is delivered by the watch’s bubble-curved sapphire crystal, a feature that both enhances the watch’s vintage aesthetic and gives it its up-todate feel.

In keeping with Oris’s philosophy to only make mechanical watches, the Big Crown Pointer Date is powered by a Swiss Made automatic movement.

The new shape is available with either a 36mm or 40mm case. Both feature the iconic dial design, complete with rounded Arabic numerals, a rail track chapter ring indicating the minutes, ornate hands and the pointer date hand.

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Hugo Boss

Menswear, Spring Summer 2018

or this seasons Summer 2018 collection, Hugo Boss were very much inspired by the identity and lifestyle of the Generation Z consumer. The Generation Z consumers profile themselves as continuously globally connected with ‘I-everything’ being the keyword. Generation Z shares and receives digital information, is tech savvy and considered to be modernized explorers. For that reason, Boss Athleisure created this season’s storyboard based on this cultural phenomenon that will impact our future.

Submerging themselves deeper into the environment of these Digital Natives, they took a sidestep from regular daily life and surfaced in the future by means of creating interesting design themes based on an exciting Generation Z digital escapade, creating cool apparel to support getting around and exploring these new territories. This digital escapade is a virtual jungle of exciting locations and hotspots to head off into, escaping city surroundings seeking balance between serenity and adventure. Traveling through these imaginary digital surroundings, we explore the limits of these wilderness hotspots in search of the ultimate apparel to match. Inspiration centers around three hotspots that reflect the body and content of our collection, featuring three different directions within the compilation that blend flawlessly into one comprehensive Athleisure collection. 1 – The surrealistic jungle; presenting Athleisure in the sportscasual explorer look consisting of sporty designs with sport

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stripes, color blocking and fancy structured qualities playing important roles. Fabrics are lightweight and designs are detailed and fashionable-sporty, obtaining a strong multi occasional approach to the styles. The look is layered, comfortable and relaxed due to the multi functionality of its qualities and designs. 2 – The high-speed jungle; presenting Athleisure in the active explorer look. Here is where they touch base with their golf and active line, giving it a new fashionable modern day twist in active sports. Inspiration derived from active high speed performance jungle sports such as rafting. Performance function in fabrication is key and combined with innovative designs this results in interesting active inspired cut lines. Needless to say, the look is active yet fashionable with a dual ability to wear it for high performance activities as well as for cool lifestyle sporting events.

3 – The manmade jungle; presenting Athleisure in a hypermodern lifestyle outdoor explorer look. Deriving inspiration mostly from a mix of nature and the outdoors entwined with high tech architecture. Technology and comfort intertwine, creating clean contemporary designed styles consisting of crafted tech organic cut lines. Fabrics are clean and driven by functional technologies.

Keep up-to-date with the ins-and-outs of this season’s style trends at passionsarabia.com

For this collection Boss feature three color stories. In the first theme, they introduce a hue of blues starting with basic navy, true blue and the sunny sky blue dashed with a hint of summer green, white and grey mélange. The second theme shows a very active mood driven by lime and sulphur yellow as leading colors fused with white followed by basic colors like black and magnet grey. The third theme shows bright fuchsia pink with a fresh pastel pink in combination with lots of white and navy.

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Gucci

on Wooster, SoHo, NYC

ucci opened its first ever presence in SoHo, New York at 63 Wooster Street on May 6. This hub for creativity and innovation will connect with the artistic heritage of this unique urban district. SoHo during the 1970s and 80s epitomized a freewheeling attitude to music, film, literature, fashion and art, which acted as a magnet for creatives of all types. It was the soul of Manhattanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative community, the haunt of Jean Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Blondie, and more. Gucci Wooster is the latest destination created by the House

offering a new way to experience the eclectic, creative and bohemian spirit of the brand. Following Gucci Garden, opened

in Florence earlier this year, where a 1337 Italian palazzo plays host to a distinctly Florentine experience, Gucci Wooster is a center of creativity that captures the energy of Gucci at any moment where you can discover the latest Gucci collections and collaborations.

Formerly the site of a pencil factory, Gucci Wooster is located

in a 155-year-old landmark-protected building and occupies a

full city block, from Wooster Street to West Broadway. Gucci Wooster is a unique space and has therefore been imagined by

the House in a new way. Taking up nearly 10,000 square feet,

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Conversations with three Gucci Wooster collaborators are available on the Gucci podcast channel. Jellybean speaks about his background in music and the SoHo community as well as his residency with acclaimed author and journalist Nelson George. Anja Cronberg, founder and editor-inchief of the annual journal Vestoj, interviews Dapper Dan about his collaboration with the House. Lastly, as part of a partnership with Frieze to commission a new series of films titled ‘The Second Summer of Love’, artist Wu Tsang discusses her documentary exploring New York house music with Frieze’s Editor-At-Large Dan Fox.

the design concept was conceived exclusively for this location to maintain the integrity of the original framework. The restored brickwork, wooden floors, tin ceiling, and iconic columns highlight the intricate cast-iron architecture that characterizes SoHo. Three different hand-painted floor designs, executed by Italian artisans, introduce color and pattern, while original steel tiles speak to the neighborhood’s industrial history. Bold colors of turmeric orange and burgundy Guccify the interior and seating is covered in Gucci prints and fabric. Luggage carts, freestanding furniture with stone inlay and vintage pharmacy fixtures display products throughout the space. Reinforcing the industrial spirit of the building, custom brass fixtures frame the brick walls. Complementing the new attitude of the space, Gucci will explore novel approaches to servicing its customers here, adopting an innovative team structure where visitors will be helped by a cast of ambassadors. These “Gucci Connectors” will be storytellers, whose focus is engaging customers in the brand’s unique narrative.

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Ermenegildo Zegna 55th edition of their wool awards

ver 50 years ago, Ermenegildo Zegna established its inaugural “Ermenegildo Zegna Extrafine Wool Trophy” to award and incentivize woolgrowers to improve the quality of superfine Merino and has consistently worked to celebrate the importance of wool and support growers in their quest to produce the best wools in the world. This year, for the 55th edition of the prestigious program, Ermenegildo Zegna has once again honoured Australia’s best woolgrowers by awarding the “Superfine Wool Trophy” and the “Vellus Aureum Trophy” during an exclusive gala dinner hosted by Paolo Zegna, Chairman of the Group. All fleeces and wool lots entered in the two competitions are purchased by the Zegna Group. A further severe selection of the best of them is transformed into the top line fabrics and finished products of the Ermenegildo Zegna collections.

The relationship between Ermenegildo Zegna and Australian wool dates back to 1910 when the company began sourcing this incredible natural fiber. Still today, the inherent excellence and unique characteristics of superfine wool allows Ermenegildo Zegna to constantly evolve the beauty and performance of its products. Superfine wool has been the key to creating many of the company’s most precious fabrics and exclusive

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garments, especially after the first “Ermenegildo Zegna Extrafine Wool Trophy” in 1963 (the oldest wool award in the world), which was established in association with ASWGA, the Australian Superfine Wool Growers’ Association. The “Vellus Aureum Trophy” followed almost 50 years later, when it was launched in 2002 to recognize the quest for absolute excellence by benchmarking the finest woollen fleeces in the wool production countries that measure 13.9 microns and less. Today, the competitions are primarily intended to encourage breeders and reward their commitment to quality, and are open to Australian and New Zealand woolgrowers. The winning fleeces are judged according to a strict set of criteria including fineness, style, strength, colour and evenness. The 2017 Ermenegildo Zegna Superfine Wool Trophy was held “on invitation only” and limited to those wool farms who have demonstrated loyalty to the Zegna competitions over the past years. As per Ermenegildo Zegna policy, the best lots of wool from the top 10 finalists were purchased by Ermenegildo Zegna with a 50% premium over the market price. The 2017 “Superfine Wool Trophy” was won by David and Angie Waters (Tarrangower Merinos - Hillgrove, NSW), while for the “Vellus Aureum Trophy”, Ross and Rebecca Blake (Allandale – Walcha, NSW) won the 1st place. These woolgrowers were awarded for the superiority of their wool production by Paolo Zegna during the celebration dinner held at Pier One Sydney Harbour, on Thursday 26th April, in the presence of Zegna’s top clients, representatives of the international press and the major institutions associated with the world of wool. “We’ve been honouring the best quality wool for over 50 years now, and it is always a pleasure to give out these awards as a solid demonstration of our support for the commitment and successes of these incredible woolgrowers,” said Paolo Zegna, Chairman of the Ermenegildo Zegna Group.

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Pitti Immagine Uomo Where the runway meets the street

t’s the world’s most important platform for men’s clothing and accessory collections and for launching new projects in men’s fashion. It’s a window on the contemporary global lifestyle. Pitti Immagine Uomo takes place in Florence, Italy from 12 - 15 June

Every six months, the world’s most important players in the fashion industry descend on the Tuscan capital of Florence. As if the city isn’t beautiful enough at every other time of the year, durung Pitti-week streets are positively alive and overflowing with stylish creatures from every corner of the globe, sometimes one hardly knows where to look next. Photographer Vincenzo Grillo is an old-hand at covering the Florentine strada. In anticipation of June’s Pitti Uomo 94, we’ve brought together some of our favourite Grillo-shots from January’s Uomo 93. If you’ve got the time to spare, jet across to Florence, try to snag a place at one of the city’s street-cafes between 12 and 15 June, and see for youself. If you can’t fit that in to your schedule, keep an eye on @passionsarabia and be sure to get a look at the next issue of Men’s Passion where we’ll be reviewing the latest street-styles as captured through the lens of our good friend Vincenzo Grillo.

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The twice-yearly Pitti Uomo trade shows are where the runway meets the street

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Keep up to date with news from Pitti Uomo 94 at passionsarabia.com

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Pitti Street Style photography by Vincenzo Grillo

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Top Destinations

When it’s time for wheels-up, where should you be heading?

ooking for last minute inspiration? Check out our specially curated list of places to head for this summer. A couple of old favourites, as well as one or two we’re sure you’ve never visited before. Check what you’ve been missing out on! Valletta, Malta Valletta, the capital of Malta, has been named

Europe’s Capital of Culture for 2018, and the timing couldn’t be better.

Located between Italy and Tunisia, Malta exists

at a crossroads that makes for a fascinating history. Within a 20-minute bus ride, you’ll feel

like you’ve journeyed from ancient Greece to the Middle East and back, and you’re as likely to find

a bowl of Sardinian-style pasta as a doner kebab. Don’t miss: Although the “azure window” on the

island of Gozo - made famous thanks to “Game

of Thrones” - collapsed into the sea in 2017, this gorgeous stretch of beach and bright bluegreen water is absolutely worth visiting, window or no window.

Rwanda, Africa The small, central African country has been surfing a tide of

good news stories in recent years as it distances itself from a troubled past with glowing accounts of its amazing volcanic

landscape, clean streets, stable government and efforts to preserve endangered mountain gorillas.

May 2017 saw Rwanda gamble on doubling the price of gorilla trekking permits to $1,500, making it up to three times the price

of some permits in neighboring Uganda. The plan is clearly to corner a more upscale market, catered for with the opening of new premium lodges, including One&Only’s Nyungwe House, and help supercharge the country’s tourism economy.

Don’t miss: Suspended a knee-wobbling 50-meters above the floor of the Nyungwe Forest, the Canopy Walk takes visitors across a narrow 200-meter bridge through treetops teeming with life.

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Cajamarca, Peru A favorite Inca stopover along the old Cusco-to-Quito Royal Highway - complete with natural hot springs and fatefully large quantities of gold deposits in its surrounding hills - Cajamarca still hasn’t quite hit its full stride with international tourism the way it has over the centuries with indigenous emperors, Spanish conquistadors, environmentally challenged mining corporations and the odd Chachapoyasbound trekker.

Yunnan, China Anyone who’s visited China’s southwestern Yunnan province before won’t need much persuading to go again. Down by the country’s border with Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and the region of Tibet, Yunnan delivers everything from snowy mountains to sub-tropical rainforest.

Don’t miss: Hiking (or taxi riding) to the crest of Cerro Santa Apolonia - Cajamarca’s stone-stair-lined hilltop shrine towering over the city - leads to a favorite Inca and Spaniard perch along with the best bird’s eye view of Plaza de Armas and the city’s great cathedrals.

There’s the cascading rice terraces of Honghe Hani, the ethereally colored waters of Blue Moon Valley and some of the world’s deepest gorges -- little wonder it’s said to have inspired mythical “Shangri La.” Don’t miss: Named a UNESCO World Heritage natural site in 2003, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the world’s deepest canyons. Whitewaters of the mighty Yangtze River roar beneath cliffs that tower up to 3,790 meters high. Lisbon, Portugal Portugal now has 28 Michelin stars, of which six are in Lisbon. In a city renowned for its seafood, one of the most talkedabout new restaurants is Chef Diogo Noronha’s new fish restaurant Pesca. The city’s pastéis de nata, or custard tarts, never stop being a draw. The most celebrated, and with the longest lines, is Pasteis de Belem on the Belem seafront, but great versions can be found all around the city. Don’t miss: The resort town of Sintra, high in the Sintra mountains, is a short day trip away. It’s a pastel-colored wonderland of hilltop fairytale palaces and European Romantic architecture.

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J’aime Paris

The secrets of the perfect weekend stay

The City of Love, The City of Light. Call it what you will, with its grand boulevards and pretty cafes, Paris is a city that’s open for rediscovery on every visit. Here’s our take...

uch of the charm of Paris is immediately apparent. One of the world’s greatest cities, it’s very much on the up. A new wave of chic bohemianism is washing the streets and the world is flocking there in droves. While a foundation of good planning is key, we don’t stick too rigidly to our notes, looking on our target destinations merely as a series of way-points to other discoveries. Let us guide you. Retail: don’t expect to go to Paris and not shop. For many, it’s the prime reason for going (don’t let it be, there are plenty charms to the city than this). Search beyond the wellknown areas around the Avenues des Champs-Élysées and Montaigne. Here are a few hip places where we’ve noticed that an appreciation for traditional crafts and artisanal skills are still to the fore. Lemaire, Le Marais. Lemaire is a collective, independent project led by Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, bringing together a team that is united by a shared work philosophy, with clothing at its core. The collections are designed and developed in the Marais district of Paris nearby the 28 rue de Poitou historic shop. Also try: Hollington, Latin Quarter / Ami, Le Marais / Charvet, Place Vendôme / Inès de la Fressange, Saint-Germain-desPrés. Each, a very stylish emporium.

Hospitality: the days of rude and impatient French waiters has long since passed. Today, go to the right places, and you’ll receive service second-to-none. Sleep in the right places, and you’ll be assured of a choice of pillows, scents and even have the city’s finest spa just a robed-walk away. Where to stay: top of the list, the city’s Mandarin Oriental. The brand is a global guarantee of a good time, and the chain adds a certain Gallic charm to its unique French outpost - read more of this later in Men’s Passion. If you’re looking for something rather more ‘boutiquey’ in style, something altogether authentically French, check in at Le Pigalle, Pigalle - its 40-rooms offer a more than generous nod to 19th century Pigalle. Also try: Mama Shelter, Pére-Lachaise / Hôtel Grand Amour, Gare du Nord / Hôtel Henriette, Croulebarbe.

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Paris retains an elegance that’s unique amongst global capitals. The nation’s current president is focused on repositioning his country in the eyes of the world and, notwithstanding an ongoing series of public and transport sector strikes, Paris and France have rarely been in better shape.

Where to dine: despite the great reputation of French cuisine, it’s still not impossible to dine out poorly in Paris. Number one tip – stay clear of the most densely touristed areas and head to hidden corners. Second tip – pick any from our favourites. A top spot is Ma Cocotte, Saint-Ouen. Within a converted warehouse at the centre of the city’s best flea market, it’s huge. Designer Philippe Starck was inspired to open the restaurant, and over two floors he’s installed 250 seats. It’s huge, but has quality to match. Other places that will tickle your palette: Café Ineko, Le Marais / Anahi, Le Marais / La Bourse et la Vie, Bourse / Bontemps Pâtisserie, Le Marais / Chambelland, Oberkampf. Check out too Le Clown Bar in Oberkampf - once the haunt of performance clowns from a nearby circus.

Get caffeinated: perhaps surprisingly, a good cup of coffee isn’t always easy to find in Paris. The new wave of coffee culture barely has a toe-hold in France – coffee is still widely regarded as a cheap, end-of-meal drink rather than one worthy of artisanal focus. Bravely though, we walked the streets and, one huge caffeine-high later, reflected on some great coffee that would stand amongst the best in any of the world’s capitals. Favourite choice – Partisan Café, rue de Turbigo. The latest addition to the city’s limited roster of good roasters and cafés (it opened at the beginning of May 2018), Partisan hit the street with a hipster vibe and a clear vision of clean flavours and fresh roastings. A café in the purest of senses – it places its coffee front-and-centre rather than kale salads and avocado toasts do yourself a favour and visit. Where else? Fragments, Le Marais / Loustic Café, rue Chapon / Boot Café, rue du Pont aux Choux - super cute place.

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Mandarin Oriental, Paris

Home-from-home in the centre of the city

e’re blessed. When it comes ot visiting our favourites cities, the least of our concerns is where to stay. At the top of any list will be a search for the local Mandarin Oriental. Whenever we check in, we know we’re returning to a home from home. Always well located, and luxe but never vulgar, perhaps one day all hotels will be created this way. The hotel is on rue SaintHonoré, just steps from Place Venôme and the Tuileries Gardens in the centre of Paris, surrounded by the leading names in fashion.

Set in its location on rue Saint-Honoré, the Mandarin Oriental, Paris – a unique 1930s palace hotel with Art deco-inspired architecture – is at the heart of the city’s most desirable district. Rubbing shoulders with Chanel, Paul Smith, Mulberry and more, there are few more stylish addresses. Just 138 rooms and suites lend the hotel an almost boutique feel and intimacy. It’s grand but never overbearing, and always effortlessly stylish. Truly Parisian, a perfect 21st century expression of the city’s character. As with all city-centre hotels, square-meterage is at a premium but, regardless, the heart of the hotel is reserved for a lush courtyard garden – half restaurant, half lounge – which provides weary travellers with refuge from the city when required. Day and night, it is an oasis of calm and gentle chatter. Three restaurants and a bar, all under the wing of Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage Thierry Marx, assure guests and visitors of some of the finest tastes and flavours in the city. Read more about these on page XX of this issue of Men’s Passion. Everything about this hotel whispers ‘Paris’, from its creative style to the immediate sense of belonging, from its homage to

couture to its celebration of unique art. It creates a sensation at once exotic and romatic - a truly singular experience. Three years after opening, the hotel was granted the status of official ‘Palace Distinction’ by Atout France, an accolade only provided to a select number of the very best five-star hotels that fulfil certain criteria. So, you needn’t only take our word that this is the finest hotel in Paris. The best friend you’ll have in the city (other than the friend you’ll take with you), is the hotel’s concierge. They’re the first we’ll seek out when in any new city, or when returning to a city for a refresher. A good hotel concierge will have the inside track on what’s new and what’s hot and, when needed, they often really can open up restaurant booking spots! This time we were pointed towards the Musée JacquemartAndré and their current exhibition of the works of Mary Cassatt - an American impressionist in Paris, as well as the Atelier Des

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Lumières for their Gustav Klimt-inspired show. Invest some time in getting to know your concierge. It’ll be time well spent. The hotel’s in-room decor gives a nod to the American photographer, Man Ray, who made Paris his home in the 1930s, with a reproduction of ‘The Kiss’, on velvet, adorning the alcove. Luxury is addressed through taupe silk cusions and embroidered taffeta, with an abundance of dark wood, pale lacquer and chrome. There’s a choice of Duplex Suites, Terrace Suites, Panoramic Suites, Couture Suites, a Suite Royale Orientale and the presidential Suite Royale Mandarin. If you need to ask what this costs, already you know you can’t afford it. Don’t overlook the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Paris with its holistic expereince promoting complete mind-body harmony. At 900 square meters it is one of the city’s largest hotel Spas.

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Three restaurants and a bar, all under the wing of Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage Thierry Marx, assure guests and visitors of some of the finest tastes and flavours in the city.

Thierry Marx

at the Mandarin Oriental, Paris Top of the pile is Thierry’s ‘Sur Mesure’ – a gourmet two Michelin-starred restaurant that seats just 40 people

in an intimate, haute couture setting beneath a unique lightwell.

All-day restaurant Camélia is the place to go for classic French recipes by Chef Marx – here he’s serving up to 60

inside and 25 outside within the hotel’s outdoor garden.

L’Honoré offers healthy dining within

the hotels cosy alcoves, while Bar 8 blends inside with outside in the courtyard garden.

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Mandarin Oriental, Muscat Announced for 2021

andarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a new resort and branded residences in Muscat, the capital of Oman, which is expected to open in 2021. Mandarin Oriental, Muscat will feature 150 guestrooms and suites, five restaurants and bars, a Spa at Mandarin Oriental and an outdoor swimming pool.

The Group will also manage 155 Residences at Mandarin

Oriental, which will feature some of the most select private apartments in the capital ranging from 75 to 260 square metres.

The property will be located on the beach in a prime city location

and the low-rise architectural design will take full advantage of the views over the Arabian sea.

“Muscat is an entrancing destination with character, charm and an abundance of visitor attractions. We are delighted to have

Muscat, the capital of Oman, is known as a showcase for the promotion and preservation of the natural environment, customs and traditions of the region.

the opportunity to expand our brand presence on the Arabian

Peninsula with this exciting project in partnership with Eagle Hills,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin

Oriental. “We look forward to bringing Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service standards to Muscat,” he added.

Mandarin Oriental, Muscat is a 20-minute drive from the airport

and is based in a prestigious and central district with a mix of retail and leisure facilities, and Muttrah, the traditional souk.

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London is many things to many people. To us, right now, it’s a literary city.

Literary London

Take a ramble through the city’s pages

here are many different Londons, and they appeal to people with many different passions: museum lovers, theatergoers, opera buffs, devotees of royalty, students of history, people who like to walk in the rain. But richest of all, perhaps, is the London for book lovers.

Because the city is the star and the backdrop of so much great literature, it is possible to believe you know it intimately — how it looks, how it feels — without ever leaving your home country, or indeed your home. But it is better to visit, if only for the joy of seeing the landscape of your imagination come to life. How thrilling to happen upon Pudding Lane, where a bakery mishap led to the Great Fire of 1666, after reading Pepys’s account in his diaries. Or to wander along Baker Street, where Sherlock Holmes once fictionally solved the unsolvable. Walk across London Bridge and gaze down, toward Southwark Bridge: this is the stretch of the Thames where Dickens’s sinister characters dredged up corpses in “Our Mutual Friend.” The city is not so foggy as it was in 1952, when Margery Allingham published “The Tiger in the Smoke,” or as socially stratified as it when Marianne Dashwood waited in “Sense afnd Sensibility” for a suitor who never called; or as greedy as it was in the thrusting 1980s of Martin Amis’s “Money.” But it is all of those Londons, an accrual of different descriptions and eras. It is a city made for description — reread the first passages of “Bleak House,” also on the subject of fog, for a moody introduction — and one that so reveres its authors that it buried a number of the best ones in style, in Westminster Abbey. There are plenty of organized literary-themed excursions around the city, easily found on the Internet. Or you can ramble idiosyncratically on your own, which is more fun. If you take the Tube or the bus, make sure to carry a book.

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For Adam Pomerantz, the owner of Murray’s Bagels in Greenwich Village, New York bagels must have a hole and a generous amount of seeds on both sides, if the recipe calls for them. They should also be slightly well done. “A bagel should be a bit of struggle to bite into,” he said. “That’s what a true New York bagel is all about.”

t’s not just about the city’s soft water, said Maria Balinska, author of “The Bagel: The Surprising History of a Modest Bread.” Although the water may improve the texture, she added. A true New York bagel is so much more, she continued. “A New York bagel has a shiny crust with a little bit of hardness to it and a nice glaze. The inside is very chewy, but not overly doughy. It’s got a slight tang to the taste, and it’s not too big,” she said. “But some people might disagree.” Indeed. The New York bagel — its texture, look and taste — has changed over time. The first bagels appeared in New York City in the late 19th century, brought here by Jewish immigrants, Ms. Balinska said. In 1951, an article by The New York Times described them as a “glazed surfaced roll” made of “firm white dough.” Back then, bagels were much smaller, more difficult to chew and went stale more quickly, Ms. Balinska added. (Popular nicknames were “cement doughnuts” or “Brooklyn jawbreakers.”) Frozen bagels — if you can call them that — entered the market in the 1960s. We spoke to a few local bagel shops and asked them to weigh in on what makes a classic New York bagel. It “should be crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside,” said Melanie Frost, the chief operating officer at Ess-a-Bagel, in Midtown East. And they should be hand-rolled, she added. • “They should always be boiled, never steamed,” said Philip Romanzi, owner of Bagel Hole in Park Slope, where they use malt syrup instead of sugar. • Niki Russ Federman, the co-owner of Russ & Daughters on the Lower East Side, knows what a New York bagel is not. “It should not be sweet and you should never find blueberries, jalapeños, or rainbow colors in your bagel.”

New York Bagels What makes a New York bagel?

he Westin New York hotel in Times Square recently offered a $1,000 bagel with gold flakes, white truffle and goji berry-infused jelly. Before you roll your eyes, know it’s for charity. But this fancy foodstuff got us thinking: What makes traditional New York bagels — not swanky ones — so delicious?

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Grand Tour

Summer listings

ur bags are packed and our airline tickets are bought. We’re all going on a summer holiday. Where are we going to go and what are we going to do when we get there? Let our summer Grand Tour listings inspire you. A global look at events not to be missed in the coming months. NEW YORK Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum ‘One Hand Clapping’ (thru’ 21 October 2018) The artists in this exhibition explore the ways in which globalization affects our understanding of the future. Their commissioned works represent a range of traditional and new mediums, from oil on canvas to virtual-reality software. The show’s title, One Hand Clapping, is derived from a koan - a riddle used in Zen Buddhist practice to transcend the limitations of logical reasoning - that asks, “We know the sound of two hands clapping. But what is the sound of one hand clapping?” guggenheim.org

LISTINGS

LONDON Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition (12 June - 19 August 2018) Everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see at the Summer Exhibition represents what is happening in the art world right now. New and recent art created by everyone from emerging artists to the biggest names in contemporary art and architecture. Now in its 249th year, the Summer Exhibition continues in the tradition of showcasing a variety of work in all media, including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, architecture and film. This must-see exhibition is a unique window onto all areas of the contemporary art world. royalacademy.org.uk VENICE Biennale Architettura 2018 (thruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 25 November 2018) With the theme of FREESPACE, the Biennale Architettura 2018 will present for public scrutiny examples, proposals, elements - built or unbuilt - of work that exemplifies essential qualities of architecture which include the modulation, richness and materiality of surface; the orchestration and sequencing of movement, revealing the embodied power and beauty of architecture. labiennale.org VALETTA European Capital of Culture (throughout the year) With a new flagship gallery and music galore, the 2018 joint European Capital of Culture is putting on more than enough exciting events to shake off its pretty-but-sleepy tag. Over 140 projects and 400 events have been planned in 2018 around three main themes: island stories, future baroque and voyages. With about 6,000 inhabitants, Valletta is the smallest capital in the European Union. It is located in a fortress and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Maltese capital is sharing the role with Leeuwarden, a city in the Netherlands. valetta2018.org

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On entering the hotel lobby, one is greeted by a magnificent floating staircase. The interiors of the hotel with its bright red and deep blue hues set the tone for its location. The red resembles Kuwait’s ever-so-bright sun while the deep blue reminds one of picturesque Arabian nights. Created by the Canadian architectural firm Yabu Pushelberg, what differentiates the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait from its contemporaries is the marriage between traditional and modern. With state-of-the-art facilities, a two-storey spa and wellness centre, three fine dining restaurants, two lounges, an indoor and an outdoor pool, the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait has everything one may need, be it for a corporate stay, a diplomatic mission or a weekend get-away. An urban resort set in the very heart of Kuwait.

An Oasis of Luxury

Four Seasons Hotel at Burj Alshaya

ocated at Burj Alshaya, the new Four Seasons hotel stands tall as an oasis of luxury in the very heart of Kuwait. With avant-garde architecture and Arabesque interiors, the hotel has, since its opening eight months ago, attracted guests both from within Kuwait and abroad, and for all the right reasons. Zahra Husain speaks to Didier Jardin (above), General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, to learn more about how the hotel is redefining the hospitality sector in the country.

Founded more than 50 years ago, the Four Seasons world over is famous for its intuitive service, eye-for-detail and luxurious experience and the Kuwait property does justice to the brand’s legacy on all three counts. Be it through in-room check-in service for tired travellers, the fantastic food options and open spaces, the Four Seasons is ever ready for any kind of traveller that knock on its doors. The 21st floor of the hotel is occupied by two fine dining restaurants, Dai Forni, an Italian concept restaurant and SinToHo, that serves Pan-Asian cuisine. With a wondrous views of the city, and both indoor and outdoor seating, these restaurants are perfect for those looking for an authentic dining experience. The hotel also features a breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant, Elements, on the 4th floor, that serves everything from Italian, Indian, Arabic and Asian at live cooking stations. The two lounge concepts Al Soor and Al Bandar, go back to the Arabian roots in terms of food, and serve those who are looking for a more Diwaniya-esque experience. “A Diwaniya setting is very integral to the Kuwaiti culture. We wanted to create something that matches in sensibility with our GCC customers and also something that provides a new experience for those

CONCIERGE

from other cultures,” said Didier. The Al Bandar lounge also has a pool view and five air-conditioned cabanas that can be rented out for a mid-day break, and in the evening transform into spots for romantic dates, offering patrons a private and luxurious dining experience. The hotel is fast becoming a hot-spot for weddings and other private events. While the indoor pool gives off a palace like feel, with its green Italian tiles and detailed décor, the outdoor pool is reminiscent of an oasis in the middle of a desert. Perfectly complemented by the two-storey spa and wellness centre where you can practice anti-gravity yoga or just relax by opting for one of the many cutting-edge services like Sodashi treatment, MCMM Cosmetics or Biologique Recherche beautification procedures. A multitude of dining and luxury treatments attract the discerning Kuwaiti and GCC audience, while the the Four Seasons brand equity pulls-in international tourists. At the helm of all this picture perfectness stands Didier Jardin, with over 24 years of hospitality experience with Four Seasons alone. Having started his career as the Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, at the Four Seasons Resort in Maui, Hawaii, Didier has grown from strength to strength managing the hotel’s properties across USA, Europe, Far East, Cairo and now Kuwait. For Didier personally, the Four Seasons in Bali holds a special place in his heart, as it is there he celebrated his honeymoon and where he returns this summer with his wife to bring in their 25th wedding anniversary.

Step into sophisticated interiors that would be cutting-edge anywhere in the world, yet in the hands of the Four Seasons belong distinctly in Kuwait.

With staff from over 51 nationalities, the hotel is truly international both in its offerings and the people who bring it to life. Keeping a close eye on the day-to-day functioning of the hotel, Didier and his team work round the clock to ensure that the guests get nothing but the very best. Described perfectly by Didier in three words, the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait stands for True Luxury, Avant-Garde Architecture, and Intuitive Service.

You’ll find the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait here: @fskuwait

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Faisal Fahad Al Nashmi Culinary explorer

aving moved to London with his family during his high school, Faisal was mugged and beaten during his first few days in the city. An incident that led him to lock himself in his house with fear, the only thing that sustained him during those days was binge watching BBC Food and subsequently experimenting in the kitchen with whatever inspired him on TV. “There was a little supermarket right under our house in London, I would only get out of the house to buy ingredients from there, and return home to experiment,” said Faisal describing his first foray into the culinary world. Faisal Al Nashmi’s culinary journey is an example of the fact that sometimes a bad thing can be a very good thing.

After finishing his high school, Faisal moved to the US to study

study at Le Cordon Bleu. “Going to London was more than just

is a big believer in formal education, and he wanted me to do

to the place where my love affair with cooking started. Needless

Film and Photography at the University of Miami. “My father

something more mainstream, before I went to cooking school.”

During his stay in Miami, Faisal was amazed with the variety

and depth of food options available in the city that is a melting pot of cultures. While there Faisal would organise Iftars for

a small community of Kuwaitis living in Miami, as a way for

studying cooking. It was a mix of facing my fears and returning

to say, it was the best year of my life. The kind of exposure I got studying with some of the best teachers, working with Michelin

star restaurants and exploring everything there was to explore about the world of food.”

everyone to be able to connect with their culture even if they

In his heart though, Faisal always knew he would eventually

for as many as 25 people.

“I wanted to be a part of the evolving food scene in Kuwait.

were miles away from home, sometimes putting together meals

Having completed his undergraduate studies, Faisal moved back to Kuwait for an apprenticeship first at the Sheraton and then briefly with Le Notre, post which he returned to London to

return to Kuwait, to his country, his people and his culture. In the last three or four years the food scene in Kuwait has

progressed tremendously. People here now understand

different cuisines and flavours and are willing to try new things.”

CONCIERGE

“People here now understand different cuisines and flavours and are willing to try new things” Faisal Fahad Al Nashmi

Having returned to Kuwait, Faisal assumed the role of the executive chef and partner at Street Al Makan, a Korean underground style eatery. Departing from the usual, Street Al Makan serves food, that does not claim to be authentic. The food although inspired by Korean cuisine, takes ingredients available locally and combines them with items that have a certain nostalgic value for the locals. Dishes like Indomie, Machboos Fried Rice and the ice cream sandwich tug at its customers’ heart strings while pleasing their taste palettes. What started off as one restaurant, today has evolved into Almakan United Company with multiple food concepts like Table Otto, Pam and Cow, Street Café, Experimental Eatery and Zubabar. The one thing that runs common through all these is Faisal’s idea of exposing his customers to a new style of food. Through his work, Faisal always takes the road less travelled to create food that inspires. He himself though is greatly in awe of two Kuwaiti chefs, namely Ahmed Al Bader of Prime & Toast fame and Basil Al Salem, the man behind Gastronomica. Faisal often travels to London and Paris to explore the food scene there and confesses that most of his menus are compiled on the flight back home. “London has always been my favourite food city, but now Paris seems to be gaining as a close second. The way Parisian chefs are using their traditional techniques to cook food from other countries is something I am very inquisitive about,” said Faisal. As a chef who can create fantastic plates from whatever ingredients are available to him, Faisal’s favourite is still braised meat with a side of mandi (slow cooked goat on rice) with crispy fat and lamb stew and his mom’s Um Ali. He someday aspires to earn a Michelin star himself and is only terrified by the idea that his kitchen may run out of butter.

You’ll find the results of Faisal’s passions mainfested through social media on these tags:

Faisal Al Nashmi, is a game changer, someone who has in the last few years transformed how Kuwait views food, and from the looks of it he is only just getting started. A man who does not believe in passing trends, Faisal believes that he is not competing with the market, but instead creating a niche of his own, and we couldn’t agree more.

@st_almakan @table.otto @pamandcow @streetcafekw @experimentaleatery @zubabar

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La Biennale di Venezia

Paolo Baratta

he world of architecture gathers in earnest every two years at the Venice Biennale. Here Paola Baratta, President of La Biennale di Venezia, discusses his hopes and wishes for the 16th edition as it opens its doors to the public. In the history of La Biennale di Venezia, architecture as a

architects, and between them and the public. It has been

Vittorio Gregotti in 1975 and then into the Theatre department

impetus to the Architecture department. The duration of the

department emerged after slipping into the Art Exhibition with with Aldo Rossi, who in 1979 created the Teatro del Mondo. In

1980, an independent section was set up, even though Paolo

Portoghesi’s exhibition on the “Strada Novissima” was still part

of the International Art Exhibition of that year. Various exhibitions

followed one another, curated by Portoghesi himself, including

“The architecture of Islamic countries” (20 November 1982 – 6 January 1983), and “Progetto Venezia”, curated by Aldo Rossi

our deliberate choice in more recent years to give firm added

exhibition was initially extended to about three months, and

since 2014, has lasted approximately six months. There has been an implicit aim in this choice: to address the public and to draw it into this most political of arts. Showing how “it

can be done differently” is in itself a gesture against passive acceptance and conformity.

(20 July – 29 September 1985). In 1986, Aldo Rossi curated

Architecture as source of public goods

year of the Art Exhibition. In 1991, with Francesco Dal Co, La

With architecture, whatever we create for private use becomes

contributions of the pavilions of the participating countries (but

tool to characterise better every human being as a citizen.

an exhibition dedicated to Hendrik Petrus Berlage during the Biennale organised the first exhibition to include the added

the exhibition lasted less than thirty days). Architecture was confirmed as a self-standing department in the Biennale di Venezia’s statute of 1998, when the institution was reformed.

Except for a few cases, these exhibitions lasted around four weeks. All created important events and meetings between

a structure in public space. Architecture offers itself as a

Architecture gives rise to public goods. Let us once again recall that public goods by their nature can either be the result of public action or be born as a gift; architecture can therefore be

both an instrument of awareness and of the political capacity

of a community, as well as an instrument of the generosity of an individual. One thing is certain: without architecture we are all

Where? Venice (Giardini and Arsenale)

DESIGN

of us the poorer. The goal thus becomes to promote a “desire” for architecture. A chain of Biennales The numerous editions of the Biennale that have so far succeeded each other are the result of reflections and choices developed from different starting points and based on different personal experiences. Every Biennale can make bold choices. While in its themes, the previous Biennale Architettura stressed the importance of a high quality encounter between supply and demand in order for architecture to be able to make good its contribution, this edition curated by Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara focuses on the question of free space, the free space that can be generated when a project is inspired by generosity. Our desire to create freespace can be, specifically, a characteristic of individual projects. But free space also becomes a paradigm, in that it reveals the presence or absence in general of architecture, if we mean by architecture thinking applied to the space in which we live and reside. Free space is a sign of a higher civilisation of living, an expression of the will to welcome. Of course, generosity cannot only be hoped for: the cultural and institutional framework of a community must know how to recognise it and must want to stimulate and promote it. The Exhibition is enriched by two examples of research, one dedicated to a review of the contribution of architects of the past undertaken by architects of the present, and the second to works resulting from a collaboration between teachers and young people. The Exhibition will give us examples, and motive for discussion. We are grateful to Farrell and McNamara for accepting our invitation and for the bold approach they have adopted for the Exhibition, which adds substance to all those held over these years, and which itself provides an important link, almost a goal.

When? 26 May – 25 November 2018

The Exhibition I wish to recall that there will be the pavilions of 63 participating countries whose curators have had the opportunity to talk with the Curators. I wish to recall too that unlike other major recurring events La Biennale di Venezia does not undertake any promotional actions to induce the presence of pavilions of participating countries. These are free choices. The presence of new participants is therefore the spontaneous recognition of the Biennale as a place in which it is useful to be present in a free dialogue. And, as far as the public is concerned, I mention in passing that the Biennale does not arrange any advertising campaigns. “Meetings on Architecture” will be organised for the public, consisting of meetings with architects present in the Exhibition and others (ten Meetings are planned, in addition to those organised by Participating Countries). The direct meeting with artists and architects is now a stable feature of the Biennale. Throughout the Exhibition itself, there will be young graduates ready to assist visitors with information (no longer just guards, therefore, but an active catalogue). Groups of students and professors from more than 100 universities worldwide will participate in the Biennale Sessions programme.

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Rain Room

Sharjah Art Foundation presents Permanent Rain Room Installation

Previously on view internationally at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (2015–2016); Yuz Museum, Shanghai (2015); Museum of Modern Art, New York (2013) and Barbican Centre, London (2012), Rain Room is the first of a series of permanent installations Sharjah Art Foundation has planned for sites across the Emirate. ‘That Rain Room has found a permanent home at Sharjah Art Foundation is a humbling thought,’ said Hannes Koch and Florian Ortkrass of Random International. ‘The organisation [Sharjah Art Foundation] is unparalleled in its approach to art, exhibition-making and relationships with a wider public audience. Sharjah Art Foundation offers an experience of art that is extraordinarily stripped-down, leaving the viewer to engage with the raw and often elemental forces inherent to the work on display.’ An immersive work by the London-based collective Random International, Rain Room is an installation in which perpetual rainfall pauses wherever and whenever someone moves through the space. Visitors are thereby both exposed to and protected from the continuous rain. Enhancing sense and instinct, the artwork forms an intersection between technology and nature.

Using recycled water that is continuously tested and carefully treated, Rain Room is equipped with self-cleaning filters and requires a relatively small amount of water.

CULTURE

On Set

with filmmaker Azza Abdul Wahab Al Jamal

hree filmmakers have taken home the grand prize at the first ever Small Screen, Big Film festival after voting by the public and acclaimed jury members from across the globe. ‘Lost’ by Hassan Abdulla Hasan Ali Ebrahim and ‘The Black Circle’ by Adullah Mohsen Abdullah – both from Bahrain - and Kuwait’s ‘On my way to college’ by Azza Abdul Wahab Al Jamal will take part in a one-to-one coaching programme with a British filmmaker from the London Film School as part of their prize. We spoke with Azza about her approach to filmmaking.

What is your experience of filmmaking so far? I’m still getting

course, I’m going to keep learning from my work and hope to be

filmmaking by making films and learning from my mistakes. I

generation of filmmakers coming in the region. Competitions

into the industry. At this point, I’m focusing on growing my started when I was just in high school, and so want to keep

bettering my films and hope I’ve got good experience in the field by the time I graduate college.

a better filmmaker in the future. I believe there is a new, bigger

like Small Screen, Big Film are needed to keep showcasing new

talent and allowing people to learn and build their confidence in their work.

What inspired you to enter the competition? I’ve always

What do you hope to get out of your time with the London

I saw the competition and the opportunity to be a part of a

and approaches to filmmaking, which I can take forward and

wanted the chance to learn from a professional filmmaker, and workshop with the London Film School. I had to go for it.

Film School workshop? I want to take in as many new things hopefully help to create a long-form film in the future.

‘On my way to college’ is surprisingly powerful. It packs an

New projects in mind? At the moment, no, but I hope to get

process for creation. As I walk to college every day, I think about

filming this summer.

important message in to its brief three minutes. Tell us your

new ideas for films. While on the road, I decided to take what

inspiration from the London Film School workshop and start

I learn from these journeys as a way to inspire other students

What’s your opinion of the Middle East’s film industry right

road, there’s a chance to find wisdom and maybe even change

making the best movies? That’s a hard question for me to

who may be going to college. It doesn’t stop at the end of the your thinking.

Is filmmaking something you wish to continue? Do you believe there exists a film industry large enough to support the coming generation of Middle Eastern filmmakers? Yes of

Azza Al Jamal, “It is my pleasure to be one of the winners in this competition. I have learned from this experience that it is not necessary to have a big camera to make a good film, but what is important, is to have a good idea. The most important thing in filmmaking is to be honest with yourself and to believe in yourself and your films. I can say that this experience has encouraged me to continue making new films and bringing my ideas to the world.”

now. Who’s getting it right (in Kuwait, and regionally) and answer, as this past year I wasn’t as involved in the scene due

to my exams and studying. But, even from my own distant knowledge I know we have many, diverse filmmakers across

the region. That means they make strong and, even, fantastic films that many different audiences can enjoy.

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THE LIFE REFINED

Whether you need a new company plane to ferry your entire executive team or just a light jet for quick family trips, this list is guaranteed to get your engine revving

2018’s Finest New Private Jets

Make sure our top three are on your corporate radar this year

very year sees a whole new crop of private jets hit the market. From bespoked 747s through to innovative and efficient personal jets from well-known names in the small-jet industry, there’s plenty to choose from and certain to be one to fit your particular bill. Here’s our pick of the best three so far this year. Aircraft that should be on your radar.

FLY

HondaJet: HA-420 It’s called cabin space, and the HondaJet provides more of it than any other jet in its class. But to you and your fellow passengers, it’s much more than a cabin. It’s a workspace, thinking space, quiet space and a relaxing space. These are the true inspirations behind the HondaJet’s interior and why Honda designers meticulously considered every detail — from the completely adjustable executive seating to the fully private lavatory and a host of other modern amenities. • Executive seating for four in classic club configuration, plus available single side-facing seat • Stowable executive tables • Mobile device-controlled cabin, audio, climate and lighting systems

Gulfstream: G600 Gulfstream engineers employed a straightforward design philosophy in the new Gulfstream G600: Combine new wing and airframe advances, new engines and a uniquely shaped cabin to move travelers 6,500 nautical miles/12,038 kilometers at Mach 0.85—faster than any aircraft in its class—without sacrificing fuel economy or comfort. A low cabin altitude—1,478 meters at the aircraft’s maximum altitude of 15,545 meters—and 100 percent fresh air replenished every two minutes reduce the effects of jet lag. The cabin is so quiet passengers can converse at normal voice levels even while in flight at near the speed of sound. The G600’s 14 large Gulfstream panoramic windows flood the space with natural light for an increased sense of spaciousness.

Embraer: Phenom 300E The Phenom 300E redefines the light jet segment. With the Prodigy® Touch Flight Deck, engineers have created the most highly intuitive and professional cockpit available among light jets. This jet really is a single pilot’s dream. Every inch of the Phenom 300E has been intelligently designed. The cockpit has been designed with a human factors philosophy and this jet has the largest refreshment center and windows in its class. Compromise was never an option when we designed the Phenom 300E. From the innovative seat enhancements to industry-exclusive upper tech panel along the centerline of the aircraft’s ceiling, this jet is as close to perfection as possible.

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THE LIFE REFINED

Will a Flexitarian Diet Promote Weight Loss and Improve Overall Health? In short, yes, if we first look at the benefits of a vegetarian diet.

A person who identifies as flexitarian might eat meat occasionally, but does not include it as a regular part of their normal diet.

“Flexitarianism” is essentially what it sounds like: a flexible vegetarian diet.

Studies have found that those who eat a vegetarian diet are more likely to have a body mass index (BMI) that falls within the normal range.

Most often, those who prefer not to eat meat do so for health or ethical reasons (or both). The same can be said for flexitarians looking to improve their overall health and lessen their impact on the environment.

This may be because vegetarians are likely to consume more fruit and vegetables, which are low in calories and high in fiber — two major components in promoting weight loss. Additionally, vegetarians tend to have an increased life expectancy compared with meat-eaters. Several studies have found that people who eat a diet high in fruit, vegetables, nuts and whole grains have a lower risk of both cardiovascular disease and cancer – two of our biggest killers. This is likely due to the high amount of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, phytochemicals and plant protein found in such foods. Meanwhile, observational studies indicate that eating red meat may lead to an increase risk of cancers, including colorectal cancer. Avoiding or limiting red meat can help reduce this risk. That said, compared to a vegetarian, a flexitarian will benefit from getting important nutrients — such as protein, vitamin B12, and iron — that are highly concentrated in meat. Interestingly, among diabetics, eating a diet low in red meat has also been shown to improve blood sugar levels. But at the same time, a low carb diet can help diabetics too. So it seems a flexitarian eating pattern can be healthy for a range of people. As you’d expect, those who eat a semivegetarian diet tend to have lower BMIs, lower risk of breast cancer and lower blood glucose levels compared to those who eat meat often.

Flexitarian Diet

...for the part-time vegetarian

hile there are many health benefits to being vegetarian, some of us don’t want to completely cut out meat. This is the idea behind the flexitarian diet, which reduces meat intake instead of avoiding it altogether. Let’s study the potential benefits and risks of following a flexitarian diet to help you decide if it’s a good plan for you.

WELLNESS

First, consider your exercise habits, as well as the duration and intensity of your training. While sports drinks can benefit athletes who engage in long or intense training sessions, they are probably unnecessary for most gym-goers. If you perform light-to-moderate exercise, such as walking or jogging, for less than 1 hour, you probably do not need to use sports drinks. Similarly, if you only perform weight training, you probably do not need to use sports drinks, even if you spend over an hour at the gym.

Think about whether the type and duration of the exercise you do requires a sports drink and be aware of how many calories you consume from these beverages.

Much of your time may be resting between sets, and weight training does not reduce your body’s carbohydrate stores as much as endurance exercise does. If you do decide to use a sports drink, you should probably consume smaller amounts for exercise lasting less than an hour and no more than 30 grams of carbs for a session lasting 1–2 hours. For those trying to maintain or lose weight, another important factor to consider is energy balance, or the balance between the number of calories you consume and burn. If you want to lose weight, you need to burn more calories in a day than you consume. If sports drinks are unnecessary for the type of exercise you do, consuming them provides you with unnecessary calories that could hinder your weight loss goals. However, some research has shown that consuming sports drinks during exercises like running do not “undo” the calories used during exercise. For example, a 150-pound (68-kg) person may burn about 240 calories when jogging for 30 minutes. Consuming 12 fluid ounces (355 ml) of a common sports drink may provide about 20 grams of carbs and only 80 calories. However, it’s important to realize that some activities may not burn many calories, even if they feel difficult. For example, weight training may only burn around 120 calories in a 30-minute session if you weigh 150 pounds (68 kg).

Sports Drinks

Should you drink sports drinks instead of water?

f you ever watch sports, you have probably seen athletes sipping on brightly colored beverages before, during or after a competition. These sports drinks are a big part of athletics and big business around the globe. Many people believe that these drinks are the magic elixir to improve exercise performance, even if you are not an athlete.

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Trending on passionsarabia.com

What’s trending at the home of Men’s Passion online

look at the hottest stories from the past month on Men’s Passion’s online home at passionsarabia.com. Follow us on Instagram @passions.arabia for a regular dose of the styles, the trends, the brands, the maisons and the marques... with stories of the passionate people who are maikng it happen. Shouag Hayat When we think of the modern bride, we envision a bride with an intrigue for old world charm infused and overcome with the intrigue for cool glamour. She’s the epitome of all those things and more; Shouag Hayat is no doubt your ultimate modern bride. “I believe in equality, you need to be the woman that you are and maintain your personality and individuality, no matter what.” passionsarabia.com/shouag-hayat-ultimate-definition-modern-bride

The all-new 2018 Navigator The all-new 2018 Lincoln Navigator is not a car. It is a seamlessly pristine reflection of your lifestyle, preferences and habits. We believe that luxury extends far beyond material possessions. That is why the 2018 Navigator was augmented with intuitive features, luxurious accents and an exclusive collection of services. passionsarabia.com/new-2018-lincoln-navigator

Ferrari Kuwait – Racing Pedigree Al-Zayani Trading Company, the official Ferrari importer to Kuwait for the last two decades, is in the midst of an outstanding year on the roads. We spoke to Mohammed Dawleh, General Manager for Ferrari, Kuwait, to get the inside scoop on what’s new and exciting at everyone’s favourite Italian luxury sports car company in 2018. passionsarabia.com/ferrari-racing-pedigree

PASSIONS ARABIA

Fatima Naqi FN Institute, a beauty salon and institute, was officially opened in 2011; a dream fulfilled by Fatima Naqi, a chance to showcase her skills acquired over time through experience and education, and an opportunity to assist upcoming makeup artists through training in her beauty institute. passionsarabia.com/fatima-naqi-makeup-artist

Omega’s Watch on a Mission Continuing the evolution of one of its most popular watch designs, OMEGA is proudly unveiling its new Speedmaster CK 2998 Limited Edition. The original OMEGA CK2998 was released in 1959 and, for collectors, it has since become one of the most sought-after vintage Speedmasters in the world. passionsarabia.com/omega-ck2998

Drive with Gilbert Rahme With over 15 years experience as a motoring journalist under his belt, on top of a lifetime of passion for cars and motorbikes, Gilbert Rahme has driven all those cars you ever hoped to drive, and more. He’s Beirut-based, but rarely at home. You’re most likely to find him at an airport lounge, behind the wheel of the latest luxury, sporty and just every-day model. passionsarabia.com/gilbert-rahme

Lewis Hamilton joins Tommy Hilfiger Tommy Hilfiger has announced that British Formula One racing driver and fourtime Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton as the new global brand ambassador for TOMMY HILFIGER men’s starting Spring 2018. The partnership reflects Tommy Hilfiger’s strategic commitment to build on its strong menswear heritage and further drive the global growth of its men’s business. passionsarabia.com/lewis-hamilton-joins-tommy-hilfiger

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Tanagra Ghabka at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait

Tanagra - Kuwaitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luxury shopping destination - hosted a ghabka at the Qibla lounge, Four Seasons Kuwait Hotel at Burj Alshaya. For over 35 years, Tanagra has selected the most talented manufacturers and artisans to bring beauty to homes, as well as inspiring and unique gifts for men and women.

EVENTS

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THE LIFE REFINED

Rolls-Royce - new Cullinan introduced in Kuwait at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive

EVENTS

Alfa Romeo in Kuwait new showroom, new model launch

Al Mulla & Behbehani, Kuwait’s exclusive Alfa Romeo dealer, hosted the opening of their new boutique together with the introduction of the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio - the world’s fastest SUV - at their showroom, Al Rai. The Stelvio delivers an Italian take on the SUV concept. Alfa Romeo created a fashionable collection of extraordinary SUVs - crafted for those who demand a harmonious blend of luxury and performance. It’s a powerful performer. With an uncompromising approach to performance, the Stelvio helps you conquer all roads. The eight-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift technology delivers superior balance between driving pleasure and efficiency. Engineered to perform, every feature in the Stelvio is carefully crafted for a superior driving experience.

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THE LIFE REFINED

IAA Ghabka at Crowne Plaza, Kuwait

The Kuwait Chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA) held its annual ghabka at the Crowne Plazaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Al Baraka Ballroom under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikh Faisal Al-Humoud Al-Malek Al-Sabah (right).

EVENTS

Marina Hotel Ghabka honouring the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s media sector

In celebration of the holy month of Ramadan and in recognition of the ongoing support and efforts made by the media, Marina Hotel Kuwait hosted its much-awaited annual Ramadan ghabka at Kamar Al Marina tent in the Six Palms. Mr. Nabil Hammoud, General Manager of the hotel and the entire management team welcomed guests upon arrival and invited them to enjoy the distinctive hospitality of the special event. The evening revived the traditions of this occasion by offering a range of sumptuous buffet tables filled with delicious Arabic dishes and other cuisines from the live cooking stations.

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Al Mashreq at The Gallery, Al Hamra Tower

The Gallery at Al Hamra Luxury Center hosted the exhibition ‘Al Mashreq’ - organised by Fann Way - for international and Kuwaiti artists during May.

EVENTS

The Eternal Ta’a an exhibition by Amira Behbehani

Kuwaiti artist Amira Behbehani presented her latest show at the city’s Dar al Funoon throughout the first week of May 2018. She wrote: “A salute to the mother and the daughter, sister and friend and the beloved one. A salute to every woman mentioned in histroy or ignored. A salute to every female, for she is a representation of The Eternal Ta’a.”

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Chaumet Paris opens in Kuwait, in partnership with Trafalgar

Chaumet officially launches in Kuwait, making a statement with the simultaneous opening of three branded corners with Trafalgar, the French jewellery house’s collections will be available at Trafalgar The Avenues, Trafalgar 360 Mall, and Alma Al Hamra. The partnership with Trafalgar comes as a strategic choice for Chaumet, to continue increasing its presence in the region. Chaumet’s three boutique corners in Kuwait will offer all universes of the Maison’s jewellery and watches, presenting all collections from Liens, Jardins and Joséphine.

EVENTS

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