Discover summer 2013

WIN!

explore. experience. enjoy.

3 nights in Dubai’s award– winning resort

SUMMER 2013

EXPLORING EDINBURGH

TOP TEN

48 hours in the stunning Scottish city

DUBAI

UNCOVERED

Shopping, dining and more

souvenirs MICHAEL MCINTYRE Underwater

THE UAE'S BEST DIVING DESTINATIONS

Going for gold BOXER LUKE CAMPBELL TALKS TRAVEL

BEACH READS EMIRATI CULTURE RECIPES TO TRY THE BEST TOY SHOPS BEAT THE HEAT

discover magazine JA Resorts & Hotels Ja resorts & Hotels is a company steeped in tradition with over 30 years of experience in the hospitality market managing resorts and hotels. With headquarters in dubai, Uae, the group operates a number of properties within the emirates and will open their first international property in the seychelles this summer.

Ja resorts & Hotels is managed by dutco group of companies, a well-known name in the middle east.

However you decide to spend your summer, kick back and enjoy your time with JA and this copy of Discover

Ja resorts & hotels Po Box 26500, dubai, United arab emirates Tel: 04 315 4350 Fax: 04 399 3101 Website: www.jaresortshotels.com reservations: reservations@jaresorts.com

Editor-in-Chief obaid humaid al tayer Managing Partner & Group Editor lan Fairservice Editorial Director Gina Johnson Editor helen spearman Staff Writer rachael Peacock Art Director Freddie colinares Senior Designer sheila deocareza Picture Researcher Wenona Pinto Head of Production sunil kumar Senior Production Manager sudhakar chandran Assistant Production Manager murali krishnan General Manager Motivate Connect Joe marritt For JA Resorts & Hotels david thomson

Head Office: media one Tower, dubai media city, Po Box 2331, dubai, Uae Tel +971 4 427 3000; Fax +971 4 428 2270 e-mail: motivate@motivate.ae Dubai Media City: office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, dubai, Uae, Tel: 04 390 3550, Fax: 04 390 4845 Abu Dhabi: Po Box 43072, Uae, Tel: 02 677 2005, Fax: 02 677 0124, e-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: acre House, 11/15 William road, London nW1 3er, UK, e-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae a motivate connect publication brought to you by the What’s on team Printed by international Printing Press, dubai

Welcome, both to Discover, and to your break in the sunshine. i hope you are having a wonderful time so far and looking forward to finding out more about the uae, and travelling beyond. each year Ja resorts & hotels participate in the arabian travel market, an enormous exhibition where we can showcase our properties, meet other industry professionals and get ideas for our next adventure. this has kept the Ja team pretty busy over the last few months as they work on contracts for 2014. i’m planning to spend some family time in connecticut this summer with my brother, who lives there, before heading to scotland to look at universities for my oldest son. if you’re yet to visit this part of the world check out page 10 to find out how you could fill 48 hours in edinburgh – it really is a beautiful city packed with fine dining, family attractions and shopping. We’ll be booking tickets to the Fringe festival to take in some comedy – and we have rounded up the hottest acts of 2013 should you want some laughs too. if you’d like your funny bone tickled further, don’t miss our chat with one of the uk’s best-loved comedians, michael mcintyre, whose dubai debut was a smash hit – further evidence that the middle east is no longer the cultural desert so many think.

We have also had a big sporting star in the city, with olympic gold medalist luke campbell staying at Ja Palm tree court, taking a break from boxing – and his sideline of ice-skating on television – to enjoy our excellent hospitality. if you’d like to visit a Ja property outside of the middle east you’ll be pleased to hear we are spreading our wings to the seychelles and i’m delighted to add enchanted island resort to our award-winning portfolio. after many years in the region i’m very much looking forward to another ramadan here; the holy month is a fantastic opportunity to embrace the customs and traditions of islam, and if you’d like to learn more about emirati culture turn to page 48 where we have uncovered everything from local cuisine to the exciting sport of camel racing. however you decide to spend your summer, kick back and enjoy your time with Ja and this copy of Discover. We’d love to hear your feedback, so feel free to get in touch by email on discover@jaresorts.com. enjoy,

David Thomson, Chief Operating Officer, JA Resorts & Hotels magazine

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Contents

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22

36

46

The latest news, tips

UAE adventurer Adrian

One of Dubai’s most

The latest releases from

and products from the

Hayes on his latest

unique dining locations,

literature-land to keep

world of travel

expedition, following

we take Bateaux Dubai

you busy on the beach

10

in the footsteps of

out for the night

this summer

Wilfred Thesiger

38

48

The pick of this season’s

This Ramadan learn

The Buzz

48 hours in Edinburgh

Ever the explorer

26

Shady business

Beach books

Emirati culture

How to spend two days

Box clever

in one of the UK’s

Olympic boxing gold-

boldest and brightest

about traditions in

finest cities

medallist and Dancing

sunglasses

the UAE, from food

14

on Ice finalist Luke

40

to falconry

Exploring Hatta Your guide to the mountainous village of Hatta

18

Campbell talks about

54

his travel experiences on

Be independent

and off the circuit

Venture away from the

Underwater UAE

28

malls and you’ll find

Some of the best

some of the Middle

diving spots to discover

East’s finest boutiques

during your stay

Dubai hotspot Take the time to find

42

International Financial

Top ten souvenirs

58

Michael McIntyre talks about his fame,

Centre

Don’t leave the UAE

The inspiring story

30

without picking up

behind Sierra Leone

some of these gifts

children’s charity

and goodies

All As One

Taking the Mick popularity and comedy pals

the softer side of Dubai

Four to try A quartet of recipes from JA Ocean View Hotel

04

The review

magazine

All as one

60

Five minutes with…

68

Story time A bedtime story

Watercooled’s oh so

about little Haji and

cool manager makes

his special mission

your acquaintance

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62

Tried and tested

Beat the heat Tips and products for

The Range Rover

keeping the kids cool

Evoque put through

this summer

its paces

72

64

Trend alert

Out and about Social snaps from JA’s

Summer’s hottest

fun-packed calendar

trends from Global Kids Fashion Week

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66

Your chance to win

Top toys Treat the little ones

Competition time a luxury break for the entire family

at the city’s finest toy stores

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buzz The

The latest travel news from around the world

free travel apps Take Me To My Car You know that sinking feeling when you return from holiday and don’t remember where you parked your car in the long-stay carpark? This free locator app can save you hours of aimless wandering. www.itunes.apple.com

Tripline Tripline brings the average travel journal to life with an interactive map marked with places you visit while on holiday, complete with photos, notes, and even music.

When you’re finished, the animated map retraces your footsteps through the streets, stopping at parks, museums and restaurants you’ve added. www.tripline.net

Airports by TravelNerd Take away the stress of navigating strange airports with this app, which shows the layout of 50 of the world’s most frequented airports. Not only does it indicate the gate locations, airline lounges, and restaurants, but it also comes with a taxi-sharing feature. www.travelnerd.com

HearPlanet Billed as your “audio guide to the world”, HearPlanet talks you through over 300,000 global attractions without the hassle of a bulky guidebook or hurried chaperone. Turn on the geotagging and use the app to self-guide yourself through nearby sights. www.hearplanet.com

Fly4Life If you have a fear of flying (or are a first-time flyer), who better to quell your fears than an experienced captain?

Fly4Life’s author has enough knowledge to answer even the strangest of questions with videos and guides from take-off to landing. www.app4life.com 06

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Going green In line with Dubai’s Green Economy initiative, JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort has introduced an aquaponics system to their already blooming organic garden. Set up more than seven years ago, the garden’s greenery will benefit from the new method, which uses fish wastewater to fertilise the plants. Aquaponics,

How to…

speak tHe local linGo which is known to use 90 per cent less water than conventional methods, is an important addition to the hotel’s eco-friendly approach as it presents a solution to groundwater pollution and food insecurity.

sleep easY

Two products to help you get some shut-eye en route For sWeeT sleepers…

For sleepy heAds...

Daydream aloe vera sleep Mask

Head Holder

With removable gel pads, light resistant fabric and nose pads, you’re sure to enjoy some valuable snoozing on your next flight thanks to this eye mask. The aloe vera pads are great for cooling the eyes and hydrating the skin, while the impervious fabric ensures an undisturbed kip.

AED 108. www.luxeport.com

tHe encHanteD islanD The seychelles’ round Island is home to the enchanted Island resort, a stunning retreat that marries history and modern luxury. In addition to five-star accommodation you’ll also find nearly 2,000 fruit trees,

Whether your head is constantly nodding while you sleep on a plane or you have a strange tendency to sleep standing up, the head holder is here to ease your pain. Meant to resemble cradling hands, the cushioned chin rest is supported by a chest pad and neck strap to keep your head up while you snooze.

AED 92. www.headholder.com

Master these Arabic words and phrases to blend right in ‫ صباح اخلير‬Sabah el kheer (Sab-a-h el kh-ai-rr) Good morning ‫ مساء اخلير‬Masaa al kheer (Mas-a-a al kh-ai-rr) Good evening ‫ السالم عليكم‬Assalamu alaikum (a-sal-am-u al-ay-kum) peace be upon you (a common greeting) ‫ مع السالمة‬Ma’Salama (Ma-a-sa-la-ma) Goodbye ‫ من فضلك‬Min Fadlak (min fad-lak) please ‫ شكرا‬Shokran (Shuk-ran) thank you = ‫ عفوا‬Afwan (Af-wann) You’re welcome

ranging from avocado, mango, grapefruit and even five different kinds of bananas, which are used in the restaurants. Totally tropical, and totally fresh.

For more information visit www.jaresortshotels.com

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What’s on?

events to keep you busy this summer

Islamic calendar and a great chance to explore Arabic culture, cuisine and tradition.

June Dubai Summer Surprises

Rage Indoor Skating & BMX Championship

June 7th to July 7th

July 19th

The month-long shopping and

Shows, stunts and workshops

entertainment festival is sure

in skateboarding, BMXing and

to keep the whole family busy,

extreme sports.

with Modhesh World packed

www.rage-shop.com

with play areas, soft play and even a 4D cinema.

August

www.summerisdubai.com

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt

Ramadan Night Market

June 11th to 14th

A huge indoor marketing with

A charming play adapted from

items brought from all over

Micheal Rosen’s award-winning

the world, and shops open

August 1st to 10th

children’s book, following a

until 2am.

dad and his four children as

including tennis, volleyball and

they go on a bear hunt, and

cricket, all in air-conditioned

get a surprise.

comfort.

Dubai Desert Road Race

www.ductac.org

www.dubaisportsworld.ae

August 2nd

Whose Line Is It Anyway?

Imagination Movers

3km route for juniors and a

June 13th to 15th

June 28th And 29th

3km fun run, all taking in the

The comedy concept show

The Disney sensations head

UAE desert landscape.

comes to Dubai, offering

to the Middle East for the first

www.dubairunning.com

audience participation and

time, bringing their blend of

laughs galore.

child-friendly rock music and

www.madinattheatre.com

chuckle-worthy lyrics, not to

Ramadan

mention the motto of “Reach

July 9th to August 9th

(ApproximAtely)

Dubai Sports World

high, think big, work hard,

(ApproximAtely)

Traditional celebrations for

June 21st to August 21st

have fun!”.

The Holy Month is one of the

all the family to mark the

Your chance to try sports

www.doneevents.com

most important times in the

end of Ramadan.

www.ramadannightmarket.com

A 10km race for over 14s, a

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July

Eid Al Fitr August 7th to 10th

10 14 18

22 26 28

edinburgh HATTA miChAel mCintyre EVER THE EXPLORER box Clever DUBAI HOTSPOT

journey

48 hours in

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Edinburgh Stunning architecture, superb independent shops and endless culture – Scotland’s capital is jam-packed with activities to satisfy every type of traveller. Here’s how to fill two days in one of the UK’s finest cities.

Just remember to pack your umbrella

01

Morning

Day 1

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Before hitting the streets for a long day of sightseeing, make sure you fill up on a traditional Scottish breakfast at Centotre (Tel: +44 131 225 1550).

Housed in a stunning Georgian mansion on the city’s iconic George Street, this centrally located gem serves up the best cup of coffee in the city, not to mention knock-out Scottish oak-smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. All the produce is either sourced from Scotland or from the owner’s ancestral home country of Italy. Most importantly, it’s all delicious.

Seeing as you’re already in Edinburgh’s historic New Town, it’s worth getting to know a bit about the area’s heritage. Ninety-minute guided tours can be booked online through Viator (www.viator.com) and begin at St Andrew’s Square Gardens, just five

minutes from your breakfast stop. The tour offers a chance to see Sir Walter Scott’s home and learn more about the New Town’s opulent villas, built in the late 18th century on a lavish scale. Plus you can take a peep inside the copperdomed Royal Society building and the Edinburgh Assembly Rooms, both of which usually have limited access to the general public.

Afternoon

After a culture-crammed morning, it’s well worth using your first afternoon in Edinburgh to indulge in the city’s rightly famed independent shopping scene. Music lovers should head to Grassmarket and check out Avalanche (www.avalancherecords.co.uk), the largest independent record shop in Scotland. You’ll find heaps of amazing

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01 edinburgh at night 02 Princes Street garden 03 the forth Bridge 04 Scottish breakfast 05 Scott Monument 06 view of the city 07 Street bagpiper on the royal Mile 08 red telephone booths along the royal Mile

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vinyl, with staff especially clued up on the latest happenings on the local and national scenes.

After all that shopping, you’ll most likely need an afternoon snack, so make a beeline for the cheeses at Valvona & Crolla (www.valvonacrolla. co.uk) down Leith Walk. This is the longest street in Edinburgh and retains a truly off-beat feel, with some especially good vintage clothes shops.

Once you’re done browsing, wander down to the old ship-building port of Leith and get a pint at the excellent

King’s Wark (www.thekingswark.com), one of the area’s best traditional pubs and right in the heart of the docks.

evening

For a dinner about as far removed from the tired Scottish cliche of deep-fried Mars bars as it’s possible to get, make a reservation at 21212 (www.21212restaurant.co.uk). This multi-award-winning Michelin-starred joint is run by chef Paul Kitching and his wife Katie O’Brien, and situated in a gorgeous New Town townhouse on one

of the first streets built in the area. You’ll find a five-course meal you’re unlikely to forget in a hurry. The menu changes daily and is French-focused, although ingredients are locally sourced.

Rather than heading straight into the city for a nightcap, retire to 21212’s drawing room instead. This opulent room, with period furniture and breathtaking views across the Port of Leith through the huge sash windows, is a sheer delight. Kick back, enjoy a couple of drinks and take in the city as the sun goes down. magazine

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48 hours in EdinbUrgH

Day 2

01

Morning

An early start is imperative if your children (and let’s face it, you) want to get a proper glimpse of Edinburgh’s hottest tourist attractions: Tian Tian and Yang Guang. The pair of giant pandas are on a ten-year loan from China and have made visitor numbers to Edinburgh Zoo (www.edinburghzoo. org.uk) soar since they arrived in December 2011.

Don’t be tempted just to get a peek at the pandas and then head back into town though. The zoo, celebrating its centenary, is also home to some excellent and innovative conservation projects that are well worth checking out.

There’s an excellent aviary, as well as chimpanzee and sun bear enclosures to keep the kids entertained, not to mention the gorgeous gardens, which date back to the days when the zoo was a plant nursery.

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Afternoon

Once you do manage to tear yourself away from Edinburgh’s favourite bamboo-munchers, an afternoon of culture awaits. The excellent National Museum of Scotland (www.nms.ac.uk), on Chambers Street, is not only in the middle of the gorgeous Old Town, but also chock full of fascinating exhibits.

As well as Scottish treasures and archaeological finds hidden in the museum’s nooks and crannies, the vast Grand Gallery, with its huge glass roof, is full of amazing modern and newly restored art. International collections also show how Scotland’s connections throughout the globe have developed over the centuries, while interactive science and tech sections are great for keeping younger visitors entertained.

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You could easily spend your entire mini-break exploring the vast halls and various anterooms.

If you’re feeling a touch cooped up though, head out of the National Museum, past the university buildings and into Holyrood Park. This is not your average city centre green space, especially as it has a mountain slap bang in the middle of it. While Edinburgh’s hilly streets often provide vast views, none compare to the 360º panoramic on offer to those who clamber up the extinct volcano of Arthur’s Seat. At 250m, it’s hardly Everest, but it’s not exactly easy-going either, so be sure to wear some sensible

Five must-sees Who To ChECk ouT aT ThE Edinburgh FringE Luke Wright: Wright’s brand of acerbic, witty and downright hilarious performance poetry has seen him become a leading light in the genre’s ongoing resurgence. His new show promises to be a highlight of this year’s Fringe.

August 1st to 26th (not 13th). George Square Box. www.lukewright.co.uk

on The beach The new show from writer John Osborne, the man behind the sensational John Peel’s Shed, takes a sideways look at the enduring appeal of the british seaside, with tales from his trips to coastal towns in the past year.

July 31st to August 26th. Pleasance Dome. www.pleasance.co.uk 04

01 Architecture in edinburgh 02 traditional bagpipes 03 edinburgh Castle 04 the royal Mile

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footwear if you do decide to attempt to reach the summit. Seeing as it’s unlike any other city view in Britain, with Edinburgh at its foot and the Lowlands and the North Sea in the distance, it really is worth making the effort.

evening

After a well-earned shower and a brief nap, dinner at Ondine (www. ondinerestaurant.co.uk) is the smart choice. This excellent seafood restaurant, tucked away off the Royal Mile, specialises in lobsters and oysters. Head chef, Roy Bret, is obsessed with sustainability, meaning the fish on the menu is sourced from only the best Scottish suppliers; the Shetland mussels and Tobermory langoustines are especially good.

You’ll struggle to find anywhere more locally minded.

For a post-dinner tipple, Bramble (www.bramblebar.co.uk) is surely your best bet. Recently named as one of the top ten bars in the world by industry media, this is way more than your average city centre watering hole. As well as classic long drinks and a truly impressive champagne selection, the cocktails here are beyond incredible.

The signature Bramble, with Bombay gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup and crème de mure, is mind-blowing, as is The Ode To Betty, particularly good as it uses gin from Islay in the Western Isles.

The guys who run the bar are particularly keen on Scottish tipples, so expect to see farm-distilled whisky from Fife and their much-in-demand barrel-aged and bottle-aged cocktails.

To say they take drinking seriously would be an understatement.

Unquestionably the best place to finish a short break in bonny Scotland.

i Wish i Was Lonely The winners of 2011’s ‘Fringe First’ award return to the festival with an interactive play about communication.

Audience members are encouraged to leave their phones on.

August 16th to 25th. Blue Drill Hall, Leith Walk. www.forestfringe.co.uk

The Price of Everything Ever get wound up by how much stuff costs? daniel bye’s superb The Price Of Everything takes a comic look at value, from the price of an air guitar on ebay to how much beauty is worth.

August 14th to 25th. Hill Street Theatre. www.danielbye.co.uk

Credible Likeable superstar role Model Artist bryony Kimmings teams up with his nine-year-old niece Taylor Houchen to challenge conventional pop music and the use of inappropriate imagery in selling products to kids.

August 1st to 25th (not 5th, 12th or 19th). Pleasance Dome. www.pleasance.co.uk magazine

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JOURNEY

HATTA

Big Red One of the UAE’s most popular spots for off-roaders, quad-bikers and general thrillseekers, Big Red offers plenty of dune-based activities for the avid explorer and is just off the Hatta–Dubai Road. One of the largest dunes in the UAE, at over 90 metres (with sides as steep as a black ski run), its red colour comes from the high iron oxide content in the sand, making the difference between the dunes in this deeper desert and those closer to Dubai itself.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary A great place for you to stop off and see flamingos as well as other shore birds and warders, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, boasts three hides from which you can watch the birds. Telescopes and binoculars are provided, along with a comprehensive birdwatching guide, While endangered birds are protected by the Dubai Municipality.

Hatta Pools Aside from stunning views across the Hajar Mountains, the Hatta Pools are renowned for their possibilities of walking, mountain biking, picnicking and wadi exploration. Deep

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enough to bathe in all year round, the pools are a popular tourist site, so visitors are unlikely to see the original inhabitants of the surrounding area (leopards, gazelles, foxes and caracals), but will have a chance to enjoy a cool, refreshing and totally natural dip.

Hatta Heritage Village Set in an oasis and built in the 16th century, the Hatta Heritage Village boasts traditional architecture and provides a perfect example of a traditional village. The style and design of the village are unique to Hatta, and the picturesque setting provides the finishing

touch. The mosque and houses within the village were originally constructed from readily available materials such as mud, palm tree trunks and stone, and the finished product will leave you with a sense of astonishment at the achievement of these early builders.

Jebel Hatta 03

At 1,311m, Jebel Hatta is the highest mountain in the Hatta area, and the views from the top are well worth the ten-hour climb to the peak. Even experienced climbers may struggle with the combination of wadi walking, steep gullies and loose rocks closer to the summit, so be sure to wear proper walking boots and take plenty of water.

To avoid the crowds, a trip into Hatta is best enjoyed during the week.

01 Hatta Fort 02 Hatta Pools 03 Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

REMEMBER, in order to reach Hatta itself you will have to pass through at least two border controls for Oman, so remember to bring your passport.

PASSING THROUGH An Oman enclave can be an issue when it comes to car insurance, so make sure that yours covers an extended trip into Oman itself.

Exploring Hatta

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The location Located just off the main roundabout in Hatta, blink and you’ll miss the subtle signpost informing you that you’ve found one of Hatta’s biggest attractions – the Hatta Fort Hotel. Lovely for a weekend getaway or an overnight escape from the bustle of busy Dubai, the chalet-style hotel is a haven of peace and relaxation amidst some of the most beautiful scenery the UAE has to offer.

The activities There are all kinds of activities on offer at the Hatta Fort Hotel, with two swimming pools, one for adults and one for children, mini-golf for families, and an archery field for any budding Robin Hoods. No trip to Hatta would be complete without a 4x4 off-roading experience, and there are plenty of activities to keep the kids occupied while you follow your guide out into the mountains.

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Fine dining DAYTIME Overlooking one of the hotel’s two swimming pools, Café Gazebo serves up light lunch dishes from all aspects of world cuisine in a light and airy setting.

EVENING Dinnertime means fine gourmet dining at Jeema restaurant, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the Hajar Mountains while you sample an international dining menu with certain specialities cooked right at your table.

01 A waterfall in the desert 02 Sunset in Hatta 03 Hatta Fort’s natural landscape 04 Gazebo Pool 05 Deluxe chalet style rooms 04

The Hatta Fort Hotel, Hatta, UAE. Tel: 04 809 9333. www.hattaforthotel.com

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JOURNEY

TaKIng

micK THE

He’s one of the world’s most successful comedians – so why do many people have a problem with him? With MICHAEL MCINTYRE fresh from his Dubai debut, we speak to the man himself to find out why

T

he cliché of the depressive comedian is one we have all come to recognise, going back to the likes of Tony Hancock, Spike Milligan and Kenneth “ooh Matron” Williams. You know the type. Funny on stage yet tortured, unhappy or borderline suicidal away from the bright lights.

Michael McIntyre is not one of those. In fact, the monumentally successful comedian has just given an interview in which he suggests that the reason his fellow comics don’t like him is because he is too happy.

Certainly, while he’s performing, he has a bouncy, Tiggerish, eager-to-please persona, which apparently extends into real life. It is this cheerfulness, he ventures, that irritates his comedy peers and did so even before he became famous.

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“The problem with doing jokes about McIntyre is that it’s become a cliché. Everyone’s doing them.”

–Stewart Lee

Michael McIntyre

“The funny Thing is i’m Too jovial – ThaT’s why so many haTe my success” Referring to the beginning of his career, when he and his wife Kitty lived in a tiny rented flat and he was trying to crack the Edinburgh Festival, he says: “There was just a terrible vibe. I don’t know why.

Maybe people can’t cope with how jovial I am.”

He adds: “When I was knocking around on the circuit I could just feel it in the room. I think there was one time when I was actually in the loo in the dressing room and they all started talking about me. I had to open the door and say, ‘Hello!’ It got so bad that I started talking badly about myself just so people would talk to me.”

Criticisms levelled at the bubbly McIntyre by fellow comics range from the hostile to the more affectionate and it is true that his brand of inoffensive, light observational humour – not controversial or edgy but usually very funny – has its detractors and it has been branded “safe” or “comedy beige”.

His topics revolve around family life with his wife and children, Lucas and Oscar, or a whole host of social etiquettes including ordering wine from a restaurant. (“Why do they get us to taste the wine to see if it’s corked? We have paid good money. Would they bring us a cup of coffee, saying, ‘I think the milk might be off. Have a smell?’”) But what he seems to be concerned about is more personal hostility and it is a hurt he has been nurturing for some time.

When he was interviewed on Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs he confided that he had had a terrible night at the British Comedy Awards in January that year, despite being named best male comic, because of the reaction of other comedians.

“Quite a few people were making jokes at my expense and it just made me feel awful because I’m there with my wife and she’s gone out and bought a dress and it’s my big night and I won and the overriding experience was that of nastiness,” he told presenter Kirsty Young.

“For what reason I don’t know. All I was doing was 20

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just making people laugh. I can say it now because I’m getting used to it, but it did come as a shock at the beginning, I can’t deny that. I would never be rude about somebody else in my profession because we all do this same thing. We’re just trying to make people laugh. I have my audience. Other people have their audience.”

Indeed they do. The fact is, though, that most other comics don’t have quite so big an audience as McIntyre, which does beg the question of whether professional jealousy has played its part in alienating his comic contemporaries. Is it less a case of him being too jovial and more that he’s just too darn successful? McIntyre’s status has soared in the past few years. He can now rake in £20 million from one stand-up tour.

He drives a Jaguar XK convertible, plays to huge arena audiences and his first DVD, Live & Laughing, was the fastest-selling debut of all time. That was only eclipsed by his second, Hello Wembley!, which sold 1.4 million copies, with his most recent release called Showtime.

He bought his £3 million home in London’s Hampstead, meanwhile, on the strength of the advance for his 2010 best-selling autobiography while becoming a judge on Britain’s Got Talent last year his fame spread even wider. And he’s still only 36.

McIntyre concedes that this might have irked a few old timers: “They have been doing the job for ten years and they have done thousands of gigs and then I will come along, or Peter Kay, or some kid who shows up and gets a bigger laugh and connects in a way that you don’t even understand. How do you take that if you have been knocking around for ten years?”

Perhaps not well. Still, he argues that his ascent into the comedy stratosphere was not rapid. Read his autobiography and it’s full of his struggle through the so-called Jongleurs years before he made it big. You could say he had show-business blood running in his veins. His father Ray Cameron, who died when he was 17, co-wrote e Kenny Everett Television Show while his Hungarian dancer mother, Kati, became Everett’s best friend.

However, his career did not begin promisingly when he dropped out of Edinburgh University after writing a Woody Allen-style script that went nowhere.

Years spent trying to crack the comedy circuit yielded little fruit until he found himself more than £30,000 in debt in 2005. His first son had just been born and he vowed to turn things around.

He switched agents to one of the biggest in the business, Addison Cresswell, who got him on TV in such shows as Mock e Week. From then on it was onwards and upwards and into other comedians’ bad books it seems.

But do so many of them really not like him? You could argue that it’s a comedian’s job to make jokes and that McInytre’s fame has turned him into a potential target.

But it’s also true that some other comics have stuck up for him. Take Marcus Brigstocke, who has commented: “Michael is not the sort of comedian who dishes it out” and added that other comedians “need to appreciate the impact of what they are saying.

Comedians will always criticise people and the danger is they won’t know where the line is drawn and will just be the sort of comic who dabbles in casual insults”.

McIntyre does at least admit to having some comedy pals, such as Rob Brydon and James Corden, and he also maintains that, looking on the jovial side of life, he actually doesn’t let other barbed comments wound him too deeply. “Things are going so well, why get down about the nonsense?” he says chirpily.

Quite. After all, for every comic who says something unkind, there’s probably a million punters rushing out to buy his new DVD. A silver lining if ever there was one. www.michaelmcintyre.co.uk

MCINTYRE’S BEST ONE-LINERS “I bought my wife a beautiful diamond ring and I even had it engraved — with the price.”

“I’ve got a little baby, I made him…He doesn’t speak, he’s two…He’s a slow learner, he’s only got two words… car and map…

I’m slightly worried he’s trying to escape. If his next word is passport we are in serious trouble!”

“Aaron is the worst name.

It’s the first name in The Baby Name Book. How lazy can your parents be?”

WHAT OTHER COMEDIANS HAVE SAID ABOUT HIM STEWART LEE has said “When I am asked about McIntyre in interviews, as all us comedians are now, I have learned to compliment him on having converted a nation to the idea of stand-up as a viable entertainment option, and usually find a way to leaven any negative comments with positive ones.”

Lee has also said: “The problem with doing jokes about McIntyre is that it’s become a cliché. Everyone’s doing them.”

Surreal comedian VIC REEVES has said that the type of comedy offered by McIntyre is “a bit stale” and that: “He fits into what office workers like. He points out and notices things that everyone’s noticed already. He’s got the same sort of appeal as The X Factor.

The same people who think Jedward are funny will go and see Michael McIntyre.”

In one episode of HUGH DENNIS’s sitcom Outnumbered his character is sitting in front of the TV. His son asks him what he’s watching and Hugh replies: “It’s Michael McIntyre.” When his son asks him why he’s got the sound off Hugh replies: “It’s Michael McIntyre”. magazine

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JOURNEY

EVER the explorer UAE-BASED ADVENTURER ADRIAN HAYES HAS BROKEN RECORDS, CONQUERED MOUNTAINS AND WOWED THE WORLD WITH HIS LATEST MISSION TO RECREATE WILFRED THESIGER’S LEGENDARY TREK ACROSS THE MIDDLE EAST, WITH EVERYTHING FROM HIS ATTIRE TO DIET IN KEEPING WITH THE JOURNEY, WHICH TOOK PLACE 65 YEARS AGO

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A

The culture was amazingly still alive.

The dancing, the poetry, the welcomes, the respect, the traditions, haven’t really changed in centuries

cross the living room floor, Adrian Hayes has partially knolled out an assortment of climbing gear. Small piles of shiny clamps and earth-toned straps dot the area alongside mounds of rugged survival wear and whatever else gets a determined man through weeks of roughing it. With a departing flight tomorrow and still much to pack, he’s running a bit behind. And now here’s this stranger at the front door with questions he’s probably answered a time or two.

Hayes has seen his share of interviews and for good reason. He’s one of those guys. He’s seen things you and I most likely never will.

An adventurer, an explorer, the trip he’s taking tomorrow will eventually lead him to Nepal at the base of Mount Everest, but he can’t say for what exactly, as if on some top-secret mission from his British Army days. He could tell me but then he’d have to kill me and Hayes looks like he knows just the right pressure points for the job.

His sponsors will dole out the details as they see fit, he says. Until then, there’s his recently published book to discuss and the events leading up to it.

Hayes, supported by JA Resorts & Hotels through the sponsorship of a social media consultant, is also a corporate coach and motivational speaker. He first came up

Adrian Hayes

with the idea to reenact Thesiger’s journey across the Rub Al-Khali 18 years ago while serving as a Gurkha officer in Oman.

“I read his book then, Arabian Sands,” he says, “and then sort of just let it pass, just a loose dream.

Like most dreams they just stay up there. It was when I became a professional adventurer, in the last three or four years, that I started thinking ‘maybe this is a good one to do.’”

What he accomplished within 44 days and over 1,600 km during the latter months of 2011 was unlike any of his previous expeditions. Hayes holds the global distinction of reaching the Earth’s “three poles” in the shortest period of time as well as a second Guinness World Record for the longest unsupported snow-kiting journey across Greenland.

But in the vast void between 24

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the coastal town of Salalah, Oman and Abu Dhabi, the temperature would shift and there would be no records to break.

In fact, no new ground to break at all.

He would dress like Thesiger, right down to the janbiya knife tucked into his belt, and take along with him two local men well-versed in Bedu traditions. He would start where Thesiger started and perhaps step in the same spots Thesiger had stepped 65 years prior.

“One of the big things I wanted to do with this trip was do it in the style that (Thesiger) did in the 1940s,” he says. “The main reason for going back and reading his book was to get into his character . . . just to get the feeling of this guy, so I could get completely in the spirit of his journey and speak about the Bedu, their customs, their history, their culture.”

A copy of Footsteps of Thesiger now sits on an end table on the other side of his living room.

The cover’s vibrant, turmeric-hued sand dunes are an eye-catcher. It can reflect retail lighting

like a diamond and give a bibliophile pause. The pages inside are filled with equally engaging photos from local photographer Wouter Kingma.

But Hayes’ book is not just coffee table décor. If Wilfred Thesiger had a couple of books worth of insightful thoughts about his five years in the Empty Quarter, then Hayes had at least some worthwhile reflections of his own.

In the book, he writes of the Bedu traditions undeterred by time as well as the landscape which appears as if only a day has passed between Thesiger’s hazy black-and-white photos and Kingma’s, which are detailed to perfection.

But within those pages also exist a stark contrast between the two men’s experiences. Hayes never had to deal with raiders, for example; but Thesiger never had to witness the locals littering on their own land. Hayes writes about the afterglow of traditional Bedu hospitality being dampened by the rubbish left behind in the form of bottles and boxes. “This is very big country,” he was told, “No one ever come. No one ever see.”

After Thesiger left the Arabian Peninsula in 1950 he lamented a changing

country and a dying culture. Hayes, though, says despite the country’s industrial transformation and the unfortunate sideeffects of modern life “it’s a fantastic thing we have on our doorstep.”

“The culture was amazingly still alive,” he says. “The dancing, the poetry, the welcomes, the respect, the traditions, haven’t really changed in centuries. Cooking goats on an open fire, the talking . . . it was very special. And the amazing thing, and I’ve been here 16 years, is in all that time I haven’t seen or touched any other culture anywhere near it that I did the two months on this trip.”

As for another book, Hayes embraces the idea.

“I’ll certainly do another book, whether that’s an adventure book or whether it’s more a life skills book, on the coaching side of things. Perhaps that or a combination of the two. I don’t know. We’ll see.

I have nothing planned right now.”

Nothing except some undisclosed adventure in Nepal. Perhaps you’ll read about it one day.

Footsteps of Thesiger is available from www.booksarabia.com

journey

Box clever All-boxing, all-skating TV superstar and Olympic gold medallist Luke Campbell has been sunning himself in Dubai while he recovers from the most hectic year of his life. We caught up with him over afternoon tea at JA Palm Tree Court

On his career When did you first think that becoming olympic champion was a real possibility for you?

I was the first person from England to win the European Championships, in 2008, so when I won that gold, I thought, ‘I’ve put myself up there now with the best, and I have four years to stay at the top and to win tournaments to put me in good stead for the 2012 London Olympics.’ But unfortunately, for the next two years after that I had the two worst years of my career, so it went from high, to low, to the highest.

How hard was it to pick yourself up after those couple of bad years?

Very hard. But I had the passion and a dream to be Olympic champion, so I wasn’t giving up, I wasn’t stopping until the end of the end.

What was it like meeting the Queen?

She’s absolutely lovely. I’ve had 26

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the pleasure of meeting her twice now, and I’ll meet her again when I get my MBE. The first time I met her, we were all in a queue at the palace, and as we were waiting for her to come down the line, this guy was running up and down, telling us to bow and say ‘your Majesty’. He must have come to us about three times, and we were sure we’d got the message, but then when the Queen arrived, I said ‘Hi, how are ya?’ Then I stuck out my hand to shake hers, and my mate said, ‘Hi, you ok?’ He shook her hand too. We both looked at each other in horror, but she shook both our hands, and she was so sweet and nice. I was a bit intimidated, but it was a good feeling.

How did that compare to winning the gold?

I think for the first time in my life I actually saw the country get behind something, and it was great to be a part of something that brought everybody together, like a big team.

Being Olympic champion and getting the medal that came with it, that was

my passion; I can happily live forever knowing I achieved my dream. When you work towards something for the majority of your life, with everything you’ve put into it – the sacrifice, the discipline – and suddenly it’s like boom, there you go, you have it; it was crazy. I was shocked, for months, and then I thought, ‘Now what? What do I do next?’

How did you get into Dancing On Ice? I’d just finished the Olympics and I’d only ever had two weeks out of boxing in my whole working life, so learning a new skill was a welcome break. On top of resting my mind and body, the platform and publicity I was getting from it was absolutely brilliant. I never thought I was going to get to the final though, but I did, and it was incredible. I hope I came across in a good way, because I was giving boxing a bit of publicity as well, by not appearing as the aggressive boxer or the guy with an attitude. Some people will think certain things about a boxer

Did you learn anything you’ll take back to the ring with you?

What I did get from Dancing On Ice is that it’s not just about me getting in the ring and boxing; it’s about the performance, the whole show, from the entrance, to getting into the ring, to performing in the ring, and then afterwards. So I think I’ll keep that in mind when I go back to boxing.

Which is harder, skating or boxing?

I’d probably have to say boxing. It’s taken me 13 years to win a gold medal in boxing. In the last four months I’ve come a long way in the ice-skating world… but I’m not going for a gold medal in that next!

So what’s the new goal?

I’m the most successful amateur boxer in British history – for me, that alone is a massive achievement.

I’m trying to decide at the moment whether I’m going to turn professional and go on to be World Champion, or whether to continue to Rio and try for a second gold medal.

On his travels Have you had a chance to do much travelling?

Most has been with various competitions, so in that sense I’m quite well travelled. I’ve seen the

world, but my last real holiday was back in 2010. Since then things have been absolutely non-stop, doing tournament after tournament in preparation for the Olympics, then the 2012 Games, and I’ve been full-on since then with the aftermath. This year I went straight into Dancing On Ice, and now that’s finished I’ve finally had a chance to come away to somewhere warm and chill out a little bit before I head home and get back into boxing.

Do you get to do any sightseeing when you travel to compete?

It depends, but we don’t always go to the most touristy places. We have been to remote parts of Russia, Kazakhstan, Hungary and Macedonia. It wouldn’t be so bad if we were coming out to places like Dubai!

What were your holidays like as a child?

We were never fortunate enough to go away while we were young, as we never had much and whatever we did have was spent on clothes and school.

We didn’t go on week-long holidays like people do now – our holiday was a day in Scarborough or somewhere like that. I have family in Canada, so when I was 11 I saved up for a whole year and went to stay over there for three months. I think that was when I got the travel bug. My family is based just outside of Toronto, so we spent a lot of time at the beaches on Lake Ontario, and sometimes we’d go up north and take a fishing boat out onto the river. I also saw Niagara Falls, which was brilliant.

When you travel, what do you always take with you?

For the last two years I’ve had some lucky underpants that I’ve taken everywhere, for boxing. This time I’ve brought the autobiography of Oscar de la Hoya, the USA’s golden boy, with me to read while I relax in the sunshine.

On his visit tO Dubai How much did you need a holiday after all the madness of 2012?

Since the Olympics I just haven’t stopped! I needed a relaxing break.

We’ve been really lucky here, JA Palm Tree Court is absolutely beautiful, and it has everything the family and I were looking for. The pools are brilliant and so is the beach – and there’s loads to do as well. So far I’ve tried my hand at some water sports and attempted the nine-hole golf course, though I think I prefer the mini golf – it was quite challenging, but really fun as well. I’m thinking of trying tennis next!

Have you had a chance to do any skating while you’ve been here?

No, I know there’s a rink up in Dubai Mall, but sadly I left my skates at home. I’m going to go and meet Jayne Torvill later and have a catchup though.

What’s been the best bit so far?

Probably the food. We ate at White Orchid restaurant the other night, and they cooked the food right in front of us! It was delicious. I’ve been recognised by a few people round the pool too, which is great, I’ve just been having chit-chats with them – it’s been really nice. You can tell in a hotel like this that it goes the extra mile in what it’s delivering, and that for me goes a long way. You can’t moan about a single thing.

Would you come back?

Yes, 100 per cent. I think it’s a fantastic family hotel. I’ll definitely be back.

It’s taken me 13 years to win a gold medal in boxing. In the last four months I’ve come a long way in the ice-skating world….

automatically, and it’s totally wrong.

It was nice to give people a different perspective on the sport.

What are you going to do with your JA rubber duck when you get it home?

My little boy has been playing with it, so I think he’ll be in charge of it when we get back. magazine

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DIFC

see

More than just the city’s financial hub, Dubai International Financial Centre is a buzzing district that is home to some of Dubai’s best restaurants and art galleries

With several galleries based within the district, DIFC is an art-lover’s dream. Head to XVA if you have an interest in contemporary art from the Arab world, which includes works from both emerging and established artists.

XVA Gallery, DIFC Gate Village 07, Dubai.

Tel: 04 358 5117. www.xvagallery.com

buy

eat If you like to see and be seen, then Zuma is the place for you to dine in. This popular Japanese-inspired restaurant is famed across the UAE for its Izakaya-style cuisine and sushi counter.

The gindara no saikyao miso yaki, also known as Zuma’s miso-marinated black cod, is the restaurant’s most famous dish. Dress to impress if you’re heading

here, or anywhere in DIFC, for that matter, as it’s a celeb hotspot.

Zuma, DIFC Gate Village 06, Dubai. Tel: 04 425 5660. www.zumarestaurant.com

Well-made suits are one of corporate life’s prerequisites.

DIFC is home to British tailor Ascots & Chapels, which specialises in well-made, bespoke suits. You will have more than 1,000 types of cloth and 100 lining samples to choose from, and an advisor is on hand to help you put together a suit to meet your personal requirements and style.

Ascots & Chapels, Marble Walk – shop 37, DIFC, Dubai. Tel: 04 325 2216. www.ascotsandchapels.com

how to have a suIt taIloreD

 ensure you DeterMIne the style

 the FInal FIttIng Is CruCIal

 Be Clear aBout what you want

 lIsten to your taIlor

When getting measured, let the tailor know how you would like the suit to fall on your shoes, waist and shoulders.

They will have helped enough clients to be able to offer you advice on what will meet your requirements.

What’s your preference?

Double-breasted or single?

Two or three buttons? If you want a more conservative look, avoid the latest trends and go for something classic.

Ensure you ask for any little adjustments that you feel are necessary and make sure you look over every detail. Fit is everything – an expensive suit will still look bad if it doesn’t fit properly.

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36

Four to try MEET THE CHEF the revIew: bateauX DubaI

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food

four to try

Meet the chefs at JA Ocean View Hotel and discover how to create their favourite dishes at home

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ja ocean view

Find it at

Fogo Vivo

Coxinha ServeS four

IngredIents • 2 litres of water or stock • 1kg all-purpose flour • 100g unsalted butter • 30g salt • 50ml olive oil • 600g chicken breast • 200g sweet pepper (yellow and red) diced • 100g white onions • 30g chopped garlic • 80g tomato paste • 15g fine chopped parsley • 200g fresh eggs (for bread-crumbing) • 200g all-purpose flour (for bread-crumbing) • 200g bread crumbs

method 1 Poach the chicken in boiling water, allow it to cool and shred it. Keep 200ml of the cooking liquid.

2 In olive oil, stir the onion, mix in the garlic then add the shredded chicken and sweet pepper and cook for two minutes. Add the tomato paste and a little of the cooking liquid; finish with the chopped parsley.

3 to make the dough, mix the water or stock with butter, bring to boil then add salt.

4 mix the flour all at once and keep mixing and cooking until it stops sticking to the bottom of the pot. transfer to a bowl lightly coated with oil and let it cool for a while.

5 to fill, open a small quantity of dough, put a spoonful of the chicken and vegetable filling in and close giving a teardrop shape.

6 For the bread-crumbing, cover the coxinha in all-purpose flour first then dip in the egg mix and finish with breadcrumbs.

7 to cook, deep fry in simmering oil (180°C) for five to seven minutes.

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ja ocean view

Find it at

The Deck

Burrata Caprese served with Cherry tomato, artiChoke and mesClun lettuCe ServeS four

IngredIents Burrata Caprese salad • 4 pieces of burrata cheese • 9 cherry tomatoes • 4 pieces of grilled artichoke, sliced • 4 pieces of baby courgette, sliced • 100g pesto • 120g mesclun lettuce or mixed leaves

Balsamic reduction • 500ml balsamic vinegar • 4 tablespoons sugar • ½ tablespoons salt • 2 bay leaves

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method 1 Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat.

2 drop in the sugar, salt and the bay leaves.

3 maintain a steady simmer and allow the vinegar to reduce.

4 After half an hour it will have lost half of its volume and start to appear syrupy.

5 Allow to cool and transfer to a container.

6 In a bowl, combine the cherry

tomatoes, artichoke, baby courgette, mesclun lettuce and pesto and toss to combine.

7 drizzle the balsamic reduction onto the plate.

8 Place the cherry tomato and artichoke mixture in the centre and place the burrata on top.

9 Finish with extra-virgin olive oil and cracked black pepper.

ja ocean view

Cottage pie

Find it at

Girders

ServeS Six

IngredIents • 675g minced beef • 2 tablespoons cooking oil • Knob of butter • 3 onions, finely chopped • 3 carrots cut into 1cm dice • 4 celery sticks, cut into 1cm dice • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon chopped fresh thyme • ½ teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary • 1 dessertspoon tomato purée • 1 dessertspoon tomato ketchup • 2–3 glasses of red wine • 25g plain flour • 200ml veal or beef jus or chicken stock • Salt and pepper • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce • 900g mashed potatoes, made with very little butter and cream or milk

method 1 season the minced beef with salt and pepper before frying with oil in a very hot pan to seal the meat and brown it.

2 In a separate saucepan, melt a knob of butter.

Add the vegetables and season with salt, pepper and cinnamon. then add the chopped herbs.

Allow to cook for 5–6 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the fried beef and cook on a medium heat for a few minutes. Add the tomato purée, ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, and stir into the mix. Add the red wine half a glass at a time. sprinkle the flour into the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes. Pour in the jus or stock and bring to a soft simmer for 90 minutes.

3 during last 30 minutes of the cooking time, the mashed potato can be made. Use just a little butter and cream or milk, to give a fairly firm topping.

4 once the cottage pie mince is ready, spoon into a suitable ovenproof serving dish. the mashed potatoes can now be spooned or piped on top, brushed with a little butter and finished in a very hot oven or under the grill to become golden.

Another method is to allow the mince to become cold in the dish before covering with the potato. this can now be refrigerated until needed and then reheated in a hot oven at 200°C for 35–40 minutes.

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ja ocean view

pear hazelnut

Find it at

Caffé Via

ServeS eight

PreParation time: 45 minutes. CooKing Time: 20 minutes.

IngredIents Poached Pear • 500g blueberry juice • 150g sugar • 1 vanilla pod • 6 pieces of pear (halves)

Praline mousse • 250g milk • 30g sugar • 3 egg yolk • 25g cornflour • 50g butter • 40g hazelnut praline • 100g whipped cream

hazelnut dacquoise • 200g hazelnut powder • 150g icing sugar • 20g flour • 7 egg whites • 50g sugar

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method make a syrup with the blueberry juice, sugar and vanilla pod.

2 Bring to the boil and place the pear halves into the syrup.

3 Bring back to boil for a further 5 minutes. then cover with cling film and keep in the fridge for 24 hours.

4 Boil the milk. Whip the egg yolks with sugar and cornflour and pour a third of the hot milk into the mixture.

5 Add the mixture to the remaining milk and bring back to the boil. once boiling, cook for a further 1 minute.

6 take off the heat and add the butter and praline then cool in the chiller.

7 After cooling, gently add in the whipped cream then return to the fridge.

1

Whip the egg whites with the sugar. mix the hazelnut powder with the icing sugar and flour.

10 gently stir the powder into the whipped eggs; fill two ring tarts (22cm) on a tray with greaseproof paper.

11 Cook the hazelnut dacquoise at 160°C for 20 minutes in the oven.

8 9

PresentAtIon 1 Pipe the praline mousse mixture onto the first disc of the hazelnut dacquoise.

2 slice the pear and arrange evenly on top of the mousse. Use a bit more mousse to stick the second disc and finish with icing sugar and fresh berries.

ja ocean view

Meet the chefs

Fogo Vivo JA ocean view’s signature restaurant, fogo vivo is a Brazilian grill, or churrascaria, where diners can sample more than 12 different cuts of meat, plus an extensive salad bar. Cuts are cooked over the in-house version of a barbecue and delivered to the table on large skewers (rodizios), before being carved directly onto your plate. With a wooden traffic light counter on each table, diners can turn it to green to indicate that the waiter should bring more meat, and red when they need a rest. The dessert trolley ends dinner on a sweet note.

AED 295 per person, including a welcome cocktail, unlimited starter buffet, a selection of meats and dessert buffet. Open from 6.30pm – 12am daily.

Girders Julien Laronde

Francois Roldan exeCutive SouS Chef At JA oCeAn vieW hotel

“my top tip for preparing the recipes is to get everything you need ready before you start. if it’s in front of you, you won’t forget to throw it in.”

PAStry Chef At JA oCeAn vieW hotel

“i’ve always loved working with sweet products. you can be so creative in the way you present the food or decorate the final product.”

girders is the newest sports bar on The Walk featuring a traditionally British menu with a nod towards gaelic delicacies, plus quiz nights, live music and sporting action on the screens. With themed evenings, from lads’ and ladies’ nights to Sunday roasts and friday fry-ups, plus happy hour every day from 4pm to 8pm, girders is the perfect place for a quick bite or to spend the entire evening.

Open 4pm to 3am Sun to Wed, and 11am to 3am Fri and Sat.

Caffé Via Serving freshly made pizza by the slice and premium coffee, Caffé via is an italian-themed coffee shop, open 24 hours. So you can always expect a fresh cup of illy anytime, day or night! opt for popular pizza by the slice (or ‘Pizza al taglio’ as it’s called in italy), boasting fresh vegetables and italian spices with buttery cheese. for sweet snacks, diners can choose between macaroons, cakes and pastries.

The Deck

Rupesh Dass

Paolo Henrique

Senior Chef De PArtie At fogo vivo, JA oCeAn vieW hotel

“my favourite is coxinha, a traditional dish that i grew up with in Brazil – making it always reminds me of home!”

Chef De PArtie At girDerS, JA oCeAn vieW hotel

“since working in girders, i’ve fallen in love with British food. it’s simple and focusses on two or three strong ingredients that make the dish. Just like the potatoes and meat in the cottage pie.”

Pool bar and restaurant The Deck, is a family-orientated pool and restaurant during the day, and a chill-out destination for adults after sunset. The infinity pool offers the perfect vantage point for some people watching or simply enjoying stunning sunsets.

Juices and cocktails are available, and the menu features light and simple dishes, ranging from salads and Burrata Caprese to baked gnocchi and fresh seafood. even the little ones are taken care of, with their own specially designed menus and utensils.

For more information or bookings, please contact restaurant reservations on 04 814 5590 or by emailing eatout.ovh@jaresorts.com

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food

The Review:

BaTeaux DuBai one of the city’s more unique dining experiences, Bateaux Dubai offers a chance to explore Dubai’s creek culture from a luxurious floating five-star restaurant

Points of interest The Clock Tower the Deira Clocktower is actually a roundabout, originally placed in 1964 to mark the point at which the major routes into Dubai converged, before sheikh Zayed road was finished.

The journey Once you’ve boarded and been made comfortable at your table, the boat will depart and begin its two-and-half-hour cruise past some of the best sights Dubai Creek has to offer. Passing under both the Maktoum and Floating bridges before turning, diners will then see the famous Clock Tower before floating on to the Old Spice Souk and eventually past the Grand Mosque, before returning you safely to the creek bank.

The experience Whether you go for a romantic dinner for two or a family feast, you can expect a high level of luxury and sophistication from Bateaux Dubai.

The elegant, glass-walled cruise boat has a sleek and chic interior design large enough to accommodate 200 people, and is also incredibly stable – diners need not fear any rocking motion disturbing their meal. The menu is carefully put together to suit all palettes, including firm favourites like beef and scallops alongside more unusual flavours like venison.

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The verdicT

The Spice Souk stalls in the spice souk sell a variety of fragrances and spices, from frankincense to saffron and many traditional Arabic and south Asian herbs. You will also find several textiles and incense stores in the oldfashioned winding alleys of the souk.

Dinner cruises in the past have been a hastily The Grand Mosque served buffet, with chefs hoping you’ll focus Counted among on the views rather than your plate. This is not one of the largest the case with Bateux Dubai, where the menu is mosques in the UAe, the Grand full of five-star ingredients, from smoked duck Mosque opened and yellow fin tuna to chocolate fondant and in 1900 and can imported cheeses. accommodate up to 1,200 We opted for the pan-seared scallop and worshippers. the prawn to start, which came with cauliflower 70m-high minaret, puree, confit tomato, green apple-celeriac constructed in 1998, is the tallest salad and a squid ink parmesan tuille. Not only in Dubai. nonwas it a beautiful sight, but the light flavours Muslim visitors worked wonderfully, and it was a delicious way are prohibited, but you can take to start the meal.To follow, the lamb comes some excellent highly recommended, with a rich loin and photographs from braised shoulder served with a zesty red pepper the creek. couscous, baby vegetables and flaky-light goats cheese and red onion tart. And Bateaux Dubai leaves from opposite the don’t leave without trying the spiced pear, British Embassy on the gorgonzola and toasted walnut tarte tatin; Dubai Creek, Deira. an amazing taste combination.

Tel: 04 814 5553.

With food (and views) like this you’re www.bateauxdubai.com sure to enjoy an evening to remember.

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ShAdy BuSineSS Be iNDePeNDeNT Top Ten SouvenirS

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style

shady business Sunglasses can instantly lift a look, from fast fashion to classic style. Which will you choose?

women

1. Miu Miu, AED 1,445. www.miumiu.com 2. eMilio Pucci, AED 2,050. www.emiliopucci.com 3. H&M, AED 38. www.hm.com 4. JeePers PeePers at ASOS, AED 102. www.asos.com 5. liMited edition Fendi at Marchon, AED 5,000. www.marchon.com 6. Fendi, AED 1,290. www.fendi.com 7. Valentino, AED 2,850. www.valentino.com

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1. linda Farrow luxe at Farfetch, AED 2,218. www.farfetch.com 2. rayban wayFarer at ASOS, AED 739. www.asos. com 3. Jack & Jones at ASOS, AED 85. www.asos.com 4. twist ‘n’ scout at Farfetch, AED 355. www.farfetch.com 5. andy wolF, available at The cARTel, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, AED 1,010. www.facebook.com/thecartelme 6. H&M, AED 38. www.hm.com 7. illesteVa at Mr Porter, AED 1,443. www.mrporter.com

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While Dubai may be home to some of the WorlD’s biggest anD best branDs, it also plays host to a large number of unique boutiques that shoulDn’t be overlookeD. venture aWay from the malls anD you can finD some gems, one-off pieces anD fantastic souvenirs aWay from the retail trail

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O’de Rose

O’de Rose is a beautiful boutique that offers a mixture of fashion, interiors and art. Expect to find trinkets, embroidered furniture, cover table gifts and homewares. The boutique is owned by three cousins from Beirut who brought together their varying expertise and passions to create this whimsical, exotic space. www.o-derose.com

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Boom & Mellow Boom & Mellow promotes itself as the first high-end accessories boutique in Dubai, and is filled with precious and semi-precious jewellery, bags, belts, shawls, clutches, gift items and anything else that you may need to adorn yourself with, in order to complete that perfect outfit. The boutique is very girly, complete with vintage dressing tables and chandeliers that are as intricate as some of the earrings that are on sale.

Featuring a mix of vintage fashion from the 1930s to the 1980s, Bambah offers Dubai residents and visitors an original and fun shopping experience.

The collection features a mixture of everyday classics as well as designer pieces. Expect to find the likes of Lanvin, Dior, Nina Ricci and Yves Saint Laurent mixed in with upcycled Americana baseball jackets.

www.shopatsauce.com

www.bambah.com

Comptoir 102 is a new concept store that was set up by two close friends, and offers a blend of fashion, food and design. The shop, located in a bungalow on Jumeirah Beach Road, offers hundreds of products, including scented candles by Sage, bags by Delphine Delafon and Tse Tse ceramics.

Comptoir 102 also features a café that serves organic and local produce. www.comptoir102.com

Harvest Home

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www.boomandmellow.com

If you have an interest in quirky fashion, then S*uce is the answer to your shopping woes. The award-winning multibrand fashion boutique has four stores in Dubai and offers a collection of top contemporary brands and diffusion lines from the likes of Mary Katrantzou, Camilla and Marc, Alexander Wang, Etoile

by Isabel Marant and Sacai. The stores also offer unique pieces by up-and-coming designers, as well as lifestyle items and home interior accessories.

Comptoir 102

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Pinky’s

01 boom & mellow 02-04 o’De rose 05 comptoir 102 06 s*uce 07 bambah 08 s*uce 09 boom & mellow

If the idea of buying furniture from the likes of IKEA brings you out in a sweat, then Pinky’s is a must-visit. This Indian furniture shop offers a variety of wooden pieces – cabinets, chests, tables, chairs, beds, bookshelves, desks, among much more. It also offers items such as candleholders, mirrors and frames. This is good place to find bespoke and unique pieces that you’re almost guaranteed no one else will have. www.pinkyfurnitureuae.com 08

If you’re looking for fun kitchenware and one-of-a-kind gifts, then look no further than Harvest Home. The store is continuously replenished with fresh stock, meaning that during any given visit you’re likely to come across something new and off-beat to buy for your home. www.harvesthomegroup.com

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top must-have souvenirs Don’t leave the UAE without some of these gifts and goodies in your suitcase

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Sweet treatS Unique and delicious chocolate made from camel milk is a tasty way to celebrate the UAE. Supposedly the world’s first, Al Nassma sells the chocolate in the form of praline gift boxes, bars flavoured with everything from date to Arabian spices, and plain hollow camel figurines.

Al Nassma, Mall Of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 223 9289. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. www.al-nasma.com

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Call to prayer Often spotted in souks and souvenir stores, a mosque-shaped alarm clock can be set to go off at the same time as the daily calls to prayer, or just to get you out of bed in the morning.

Something of a gag gift, they come in a variety of colours and sizes.

Antique Museum, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, Dubai, daily 9am to 8.30pm, AED 10 to AED 65. Tel: (04) 347 9935. Taxi: Near Times Square, Sheikh Zayed Road

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Finger FruitS Dates are an important fruit in the UAE, and Bateel is one of the most respected shops where residents and visitors alike can pick up their stash.

With many branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the gourmet store specialises in stuffed dates but also carries cookies, nougat, date syrup and sparkling date juice.

Bateel, Dubai Marina Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Fri 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 434 2536.

Metro: Dubai Marina. www.bateel.com

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SpiCe oF liFe Heading to Dubai’s old souk is an adventure and a half. Photographers will be clicking at every turn but don’t forget to venture through the mounds of colourful spices. Kept in giant sacks

and wooden trays, you’ll find every seasoning under the sun from bitter sumac to fragrant frankincense, with saffron (the world’s most expensive spice) a particular favourite.

Sikkat Al Khail Road, Al Ras, Deira, Dubai. Taxi: Spice Souk

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get Cooking Emirati cuisine is still a mystery to many tourists and even expat residents.

Sarareed, a new Emirati cookbook by the country’s first female chef Khulood Atiq, is brimming with local recipes “from the sea to the desert” including brief descriptions of traditions and culture, cuisine terms, and colourful pictures depicting Bedouin life in the Emirates.

Kinokuniya, Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Sat 10am to midnight, AED 165.

Tel: (04) 434 0111. Metro: Burj Khalifa. www.kinokuniya.com

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pretty in pink The shop might look like something out of It’s A Small World, but soft toy camel Camella has become synonymous with souvenirs from the UAE. Perfect for the little ones, the pink bug-eyed camel graces mugs, stationery, T-shirts, keychains, and pencil tops, or you can stick with the original stuffed version complete with gangly legs and covetable eyelashes.

Camel Company, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown, Dubai, Sat to Thur 10am to 10pm, Fri 2pm to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 388 4559. Metro: Burj Khalifa. www.camelcompany.ae

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Salt and pepper ‘Sheikher’ Available in nearly every souvenir shop, the aptly named sheikh and sheikher salt and pepper set is a fun souvenir to remind you of the UAE’s eccentricity.

Al Jaber Gallery, Mall Of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, daily 10am to midnight, AED 60. Tel: (04) 341 4103.

Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. www.aljabergallery.ae

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emirati Couture The local dress worn by women in the Gulf has had a fashion makeover in recent years, with various designers creating colourful couture styles.

Malaak is one of them, transforming the everyday garment into a trendy statement piece with beautiful embellishments and embroidery details. The turbans are especially popular among fashionistas.

Malaak, 304 Jumeirah Terrace, Jumeirah Road, Dubai, Sun to Thur 11am to 9pm, Sat noon to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 386 0570. Taxi: Sheikh Hamdan Building. www.malaak.ae

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art attaCk What better way to remind you of a holiday than taking home a piece of local art? Jen Simon captures the UAE and its people in all their colourful and quirky glory with her paintings. The limited print editions are the perfect way to bring home a light souvenir.

Al Majlis Gallery, Al Musalla Roundabout, Al Fahidi Street, Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, Dubai, Sat to Thur 10am to 6pm, AED 250.

Tel: (04) 353 6233. Metro: Al Fahidi. www.themajlisgallery.com

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SandS oF time One of the most common souvenirs from the UAE is a frame that holds seven types of sand, with each of the hues representing a different Emirate.

Though some geologists claim the colours aren’t scientifically correct, there is some basis for it; Dubai’s red hue shows a strong presence of iron oxide while the black sand suggests corrosion of gabro rock in the mountainous Fujairah.

Al Jaber Gallery, Mall Of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, daily 10am to midnight, AED 25. Tel: (04) 341 4103.

Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. www.aljabergallery.ae

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TOP TEN BEACH BOOKS EMIRATI CULTURE

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beach books Treat yourself to one of these essential novels, from the hottest fiction off the press to the classics on everyone’s must-read lists

1 The Shining girlS

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looking up once she has Fox in custody, until he pulls off his best con yet and convinces the FBI to offer him a job, working side by side with Kate tracking down people like 5 him. High-speed chases, pirates and Toblerone bars are all in a day’s work – if O’Hare and Fox don’t kill each other first.

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by Lauren Beukes In Depression-era Chicago, Harper Curtis finds a key to a house that opens into the past and the future. But to use the door, he has to kill the shining girls: bright young women, burning with potential. He stalks them across different eras until, in 1989, one of his victims survives. Now Harper will find out what it’s like to be hunted. The Shining Girls is a take on the classic serial killer tale: a violent plot featuring a memorable and appealing girl in pursuit of a deadly criminal.

[Available from May]

[Available from June]

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2 The heiST

by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg Fans of Evanovich’s popular Stephanie Plum series will delight in her latest offering – the first in a new series featuring FBI agent Kate O’Hare who’s on the trail of handsome and charming criminal Nicolas Fox. Fox is a notorious conman, famous for running elaborate scams on high-profile people, but Kate always gets her man. Things are 46

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3 The Ocean aT The end Of The lane

by Neil Gaiman An imaginative and poignant fairytale from the modern master of wonder and terror, The Ocean At The End Of The Lane is Neil Gaiman’s first new novel for adults since his #1 New York Times bestseller Anansi Boys. This bewitching and harrowing tale of mystery and survival, and memory and magic, makes the impossible all too real.

Gaiman is one to watch this year, with two new children’s books, a Doctor Who episode and Neverwhere dramatised for radio his works will be making a splash in the public eye.

[Available from June]

4 revenge WearS Prada

by Lauren Weisberger Almost a decade has passed since Andy Sachs quit the job “a million girls would die for” working for Miranda Priestly at

must-read books

order to succeed. Stripping away the myths around the Borgias, Blood & Beauty breathes life into this astonishing family.

[Available from July]

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by Brad Thor New from the New York Times #1 bestseller comes a gripping story of murder, kidnapping and betrayal.

A string of high-profile kidnappings has whipped Washington D.C. into a frenzy, but when the victims start turning up as bodies, frenzy turns to panic, and as the ransom demands are finally made public, panic will morph into terror.

[Available from July]

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7 The never liST Runway magazine. Andy and Emily, her former nemesis and co-assistant, have since joined forces to start a high-end bridal title, which has quickly become required reading for the young and stylish. Even better, Andy has met the love of her life, and their wedding will be splashed across all the society pages.

But karma is about to hit Andy square in the bouquet. On the morning of her wedding, she discovers a secret letter and realises that nothing – not her husband, or her beloved career – is as it seems.

[Available from June]

5 BlOOd & BeauTy: The BOrgiaS

by Sarah Dunant When Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia buys his way into the papacy as Pope Alexander VI, he is defined not just by his wealth, or his passionate love for his illegitimate children, but by his blood: he is a Spanish Pope in a city run by Italians. If the Borgias are to triumph, this charismatic, consummate politician with a huge appetite for life, women, and power must use papacy and family in

by Koethi Zan For years, best friends Sarah and Jennifer kept what they called the ‘Never List’: a list of actions to be avoided at all costs. But one night, against their best instincts, they accept a cab ride which has grave, everlasting consequences.

For the next three years, they are held captive with two other girls in a dungeon-like cellar. Ten years later Sarah is still struggling to resume a normal life but still unable to come to grips with the fact that Jennifer didn’t make it out of that cellar. Now, her abductor is up for parole and Sarah can no longer ignore the twisted letters he sends from jail. Facing her phobias leads her on a cross-country chase plunging her into the perverse world of secret cults, into a mystery more horrifying than even she could have imagined.

[Available from July]

8 The gallery Of vaniShed huSBandS

by Natasha Solomons When Juliet Montague’s husband disappears, so does she. As far as the conservative community in which

she lives is concerned, she is invisible.

She does her best to conform to their rules, but then on her 30th birthday she does something unexpected. Instead of the fridge she has scrimped for, she impulsively spends her savings on a portrait of herself. It is the first in a series of portraits that punctuate Juliet’s adult life as she joins London’s lively post-war art scene and proves to be an astute spotter of talent. Yet she remains an outsider in both her worlds.

[Available from August]

9 The WOman in Black

by Susan Hill Arthur Kipps is a junior solicitor, summoned to attend the funeral of Mrs Alice Drablow, sole inhabitant of Eel Marsh House. Standing at the end of a dangerous causeway, the house is wreathed in fog and mystery, with secrets buried in shallow graves and hidden behind shuttered windows.

When Kipps catches a glimpse of a wasted young woman at the funeral, dressed all in black, a creeping sense of unease begins to take hold – a feeling heightened by the reluctance of the local villagers to speak of the woman in black, and her terrible purpose.

10 a SOng Of ice and fire: a game Of ThrOneS

by George RR Martin Winter is coming, and the struggle for the Iron Throne has begun. In the first of Martin’s epic series, the story follows the Starks of Winterfell. As warden of the North, Lord Eddard Stark is reluctant to serve as Hand of the King, as requested by his old friend Robert Baratheon, now King of Westeros. His honour weighs him down in a court full of liars, spies and traitors that he must successfully navigate to keep his office, and his life. Across the seas, the heir to the Mad Dragon King seeks to regain the throne at the cost of his young and beautiful sister’s virtue and freedom. In the game of thrones, you win or you die. magazine

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WHILE IT IS EASY TO FOCUS ON THE MODERN SIDE OF THE UAE, BEHIND THE DIZZYING SKYSCRAPERS AND WORLD-RECORD-BREAKING NUMBERS IS A COUNTRY BOASTING A RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE. WITH THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN TAKING PLACE FROM APPROXIMATELY JULY 9TH, WE PUT THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE TRADITIONS AND CULTURE OF THE UAE, FROM MUST-TRY DISHES WHILE YOU’RE IN THE EMIRATES TO UNDERSTANDING THE SPORT OF CAMEL RACING

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Food Emirati cuisine sadly isn’t represented very well in the UAE, with Lebanese dishes more commonly found in cafés and restaurants, but if you know where to look you can track down traditional food.

With the harsh desert climate, Bedouins had to be creative with ingredients, and you’ll often find dishes cooked in a single pot, so stews are popular. Chicken, lamb and goat are the most frequently used meats (camel is saved for weddings and other special occasions), with lots of vegetables and flavours from turmeric, cardamom and saffron.

Some of the most iconic dishes include malih fish (salted and left in the sun), khmeer bread, saloonat diyai (chicken stew served with rice), khabeesa (roasted flour mixed with cardamom, caramelised sugar and saffron), and farnee (a dessert similar to rice pudding, topped with pistacios). After dining, red tea is often served to help with digestion.

While you’re in Dubai, head to Local House in Bastakiya (Tel: 04 354 0705), where you can try a camel burger, or Al Fanar in Festival City (Tel: 04 232 9966) for a full menu of Emirati favourites.

Falconry There are two main species of falcon, the saker and the peregrine, and when diving they can reach staggering speeds of up to 320kph.

Originally used for hunting food in the desert, today falconry is a living tradition and purely for sport. It also plays a large part in the day-to-day national identity, with falcons appearing on logos, passports, stamps and banknotes across the Emirates, and a huge amount of pride being attached to their history. There are festivals, clubs, breeding programmes and even falcon hospitals, and the birds can be spotted with their handlers all over the Emirates, from the malls to the dunes as part of a desert safari.

EMIRATI CULTURE

You can still find camel racing here today; it takes place all year round, but the peak season runs from October through to April

Music Music in the UAE is integral to a number of its traditions, such as folk dancing, which is typically male-oriented and involves dancers swaying together in line to the accompaniment of tambourines.

Drums are also an important part of classical and folk music. There are a number of songs that are typically sung on special occasions, and both the music and lyrics are very simply composed.

In the past, songs were known to be composed to accompany daily tasks such as diving for pearl oysters and

Emiratisation at Ja rEsorts & HotEls 2013 marks the ten year anniversary of the JA Emiratisation department.

Going back a decade, very few Nationals were employed in Dubai hotels so JA Resorts & Hotels pioneered a dedicated department in order to develop sustainable, long-term employment of Nationals within the company’s growing portfolio. David Thomson, Chief Operating Officer of JA Resorts & Hotels recalled the start of the Emiratisation department. He said “When we introduced our Emiratisation Department back in 2003 we were one of the first hoteliers to do so. Now it’s an industry standard and we’re proud of all the talented UAE Nationals within our properties”.

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bringing water from the well, with singing and dancing taking place during celebrations. One well-known dance was performed by young girls, who would swing their long hair and sway their bodies to the beat of the music – a performance that is still carried out today during special occasions such as UAE National Day.

Henna Henna in the UAE is used during special occasions such as weddings and religious holidays, including Eid, with Arabic henna typically featuring large floral patterns. Henna is made from the leaves of a henna tree – they are collected, ground, and smoothed first, and then mixed with hot water and left in order for them to ferment.

Today, most women choose to buy it ready-made from salons. Visitors can find ladies who perform henna painting on desert safaris or at one of the Emirate’s heritage villages.

National Dress While you will find that the UAE dress code is one of the more liberal in the Gulf, most Emiratis still choose to wear their traditional national dress.

Men wear the kandura (also known as dishdasha), which is a white, ankle length, long-sleeved garment that is

typically made out of cotton. The men also wear a white headdress (kaffiyeh), which is held in place by a rope (agal).

Traditional dress for women consists of the abaya – a full-length loose-fitting garment, which is black in colour. The head is covered with a hijab – a scarf that wraps around the neck. The face is left fully exposed; some women choose to wear the face veil (niqab), but it’s not required in the UAE.

Camel Racing Camel racing forms a significant part of the UAE’s unique cultural heritage.

In the past, racing was organised to mark occasions such as weddings or festivals. You can still find camel racing here today; it takes place all year round, but the peak season runs from October through to April. These races attract large crowds, including members of the ruling families. The most popular weekly competitions are held at the Al Wathba, Al Maqam and Al Ain camel racetracks in Abu Dhabi, and Al Marmoum in Dubai. The Dubai Camel Racing Festival is held annually under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and organised by the Dubai Camel Racing Club. The 12-day festival features highly trained camels from

RAMADAN DO’S AND DON’TS DO BE KIND AND CONSIDERATE, ESPECIALLY TO THOSE WHO ARE FASTING DO USE THIS TIME TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ISLAM AND THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN DO BE PATIENT – EVERYTHING RUNS MORE SLOWLY DURING THIS MONTH DO BE CHARITABLE – DONATE FOOD, CLOTHES AND MONEY WHERE YOU CAN DO TAKE PART IN LOCAL CUSTOMS, SUCH AS IFTAR DON’T EAT OR DRINK IN PUBLIC DON’T SMOKE IN PUBLIC DON’T WEAR IMMODEST CLOTHING DON’T PLAY LOUD MUSIC DON’T DISPLAY ANY AFFECTION IN PUBLIC

all over the Middle East of different breeds and ages. In addition to the races, there are also activities that depict the country’s cultural traditions.

Art and Literature Poetry is a very popular form of literature in the UAE, and the main themes for Emirati poetry include patriotism, religion, family, love and chivalry. The style of UAE poetry was shaped by the 8th century Arab scholar Al Khalil bin Ahmed. Calligraphy is a traditional art in the UAE, whereby Arabic words are transformed into works of art.

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UNDER THE SEA ALL AS ONE FIVE MINUTES WITH… SCOTT LADYMAN

action

Scuba diving iS one of the uae’S moSt popular paStimeS, and there’S a fantaStic choice of SpotS off the gulf coaSt where you’ll find breathtaking underwater viStaS

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UNDER THE SEA magazine

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Martini Rock Where: Khor Fakkan, Sharjah Dive depth: 18m Voted the best dive site in the UAE by local enthusiasts, Martini Rock is a large submerged rock surrounded by Teddy Bear coral and teeming with marine life. You might spot turtles, morays, shoals of Arabian mackerel, damsel fish, snapper or sergeant majors as you plumb the depths.

Martini Wall Where: from Martini Rock, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah Dive depth: 15m If you’re looking to dive with whale sharks this is one of the best spots in the UAE to catch them – but even if they’re playing hard to get there are plenty of black tips all year round, as well as green and hawksbill turtles, sea horses and jaw fish towards the sea bed.

Shark Island Where: Khor Fakkan, Sharjah Dive depth: 15m Shark Island is home to three individual dive sites – Shark Bay, Shark North and Shark South. North and South are both sloping wall dives, comprised of sea boulders that hide morays and green 56

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turtles. Both sites are home to whale and leopard sharks, but between October and April in the South you might see black tip reef sharks. In the North you’ll find sea horses and rays hidden in the sand.

Shark Bay is a different kettle of fish, so to speak.

It’s a hard coral dive with a maximum depth of only 7m, making it ideal for new divers, youngsters, or those who struggle with depth restrictions. You’ll nearly always spot turtles here, and in season, even a few black tips.

The Innes Where: offshore from the International Marina & Yacht Club, Fujairah Dive depth: 72m One for more experienced divers, The Innes is a small coastal tanker sunk after an explosion in her bow.

She rests upside down, with a well-supported deck that offers passageways for qualified technical wreck divers to explore. Nearby there is plenty of wreck debris to search through, and the site is beginning to grow local corals, as well as becoming populated with various fish species.

Three Rocks Where: 15 minutes south from The Méridien Al Aqah Resort, Fujairah Dive depth: 12m Also known as Sharm within local diving circles, this is a great dive when the visibility is good, but you have to time it carefully as the waters can get rather murky. Popular with photographers who like taking shots in shallower waters, you might be able to tick turtles, black tips and barracuda off your critter-spotting list.

Inchcape One and Two Where: Fujairah Dive depth: Up to 30m Inchcape One was sunk in 2001 to a depth of 30m and is an exciting wreck for experienced open water divers, where you can expect to see barracuda, trevally and sweet lips as well as the odd large shark.

Inchcape Two, at 22m down, is filled with snapper, puffer and cornet fish, and is an ideal location for wreck speciality dives, especially popular first thing in the morning and for night diving.

Anemone Gardens Where: 150m east of Shark Island, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah Dive depth: 22m Famous among underwater photographers for its wideangled shots and macro opportunities, Anemone Gardens is home to Sea Horse Alley, an old coastal guard mooring at a depth of 21.6m where sea horses frolic among the old ropes.

THE BEST OF THE REST THESE THREE SITES ARE THE WORLD’S MUST-DIVE SPOTS Chuuk Lagoon

Where: Micronesia, western Pacific Ocean Although it’s home to species of colourful coral and tropical fish, Chuuk Lagoon is best known for its sheer number of wrecks – the greatest number in any one location in the world.

The location of a Japanese naval base during WWII, dozens of ships were sunk and many planes shot down by US attacks in 1944 including the Fujikawa Maru, which still has intact fighter planes trapped in its holds.

Coral Gardens Where: below Anemone Gardens, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah Dive Depth: 30m One of the deeper dives in the UAE, Coral Gardens is made up of large boulders covered in Green Whip coral and is home to sea horses, jaw fish and moray eels, among other reef-dwelling creatures. There are plenty of shoaling fish and some larger cow tail rays for the keen photographer.

Pulau Sipadan

Hole in the Wall Where: Dibba, Fujairah Dive depth: 16m Home to a resident turtle, black tip sharks, bat fish, rays, and barracuda this is one of the more unique and unknown locations in the UAE dive world. Best dived at high tide (but still worth a look at low tide) this is a good spot for beginners.

Car Cemetery Where: 20 minutes north of Khor Fakkan, Sharjah Dive depth: 16m Fifteen years ago, diving enthusiasts took a range of cars, trucks, buses, and even the odd dumper truck and sunk them off the coast of Fujairah for a new and exciting experience. The location can be difficult to navigate for more inexperienced divers but it’s home to a host of big rays and turtles, shoals of trevally and barracuda, and great for interesting photographs.

Where: Malaysia Under the waves off the Malay coastline you may feel like an extra in Finding Nemo at Barracuda Point where green and hawksbill turtles gather in swirling, tornado-like formations.

Look out for the worldfamous Drop-Off, where the ocean floor drops away dramatically.

Gansbaai

Where: Hermanus, South Africa Climbing inside a metal cage amid circling great white sharks is a real test of your mettle. Offering the ultimate adrenaline rush that many divers seek out, there’s little in the world that can compare with coming face to face with one of nature’s most deadly predators.

ACTION

After 16 years of saving lives in Sierra Leone, the charity All As One has an unlikely but vital UAE connection.

From Freetown to Downtown Dubai, this is a journey of hope

REETOWN, THE CAPITAL OF SIERRA LEONE, is a city built on the principle of hope – in 1792 it was founded as a safe haven for freed African slaves to settle and start a life of their own. Of course, the situation in Freetown, and Sierra Leone as a whole, has changed a great deal in the ensuing two centuries – the country and its capital have endured uprisings, military coups, ethnic violence and, up until 2002, a bloody 11-year civil war.

While some semblance of normality has returned to Sierra Leone, its people – specifically its children – still face huge challenges. According to UN reports, the country has one of the world’s highest infant mortality rates – one in seven children die before they reach the age of five, and more than half of these children die from preventable conditions such as diarrhoea, malnutrition or dehydration. Furthermore, the country suffers from one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates – one in 21 women are likely to die during childbirth (compared to one in 2,800 in developed countries).

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These shocking statistics, coupled with the atrocities of the civil war, were enough to prompt American Deanna Wallace to set up the All As One charity (www.allasone.org) in 1997.

“Sierra Leone’s orphaned and abandoned children are often left to fend for themselves and lose the possibility of a happy childhood,” explains Deanna.

“Instead, they face malnutrition, homelessness, abuse, illiteracy, sickness and even death… I decided if I could help even one child, it would be worth the effort.”

But, after 16 years, Deanna and her team have exceeded their own expectations, having helped countless children out of poverty and destitution.

“We believe in restoring children’s futures,” Deanna continues. “This belief moves us to provide Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable children with a loving home, three meals a day, an onsite accredited school, medical care, counselling and, most of all, a family.”

All As One, based in Freetown, achieves its goals in three ways: the All As One Children’s Centre, which provides a stable and loving home for the children with 24-hour crisis response and care; the All As One Academy, which provides education for children living at the Children’s Centre, as well as other children living in the surrounding community; and the All As One Medical Clinic, which offers preventative intervention and medical treatment.

But Deanna is quick to point out that All As One’s good work wouldn’t be possible without the help of the charity’s “generous and likeminded supporters”.

One such generous and like-minded supporter provides All As One with an unlikely, but very important, UAE link.

Having visited the All As One Children’s Centre in 2005, Dubai resident Matthew Morgan-Jones was so moved by what he saw in Freetown that, by 2007, he had successfully registered the charity as a licensed UAE-based non-profit organisation (www.aaodubai.org).

Furthermore, Matthew has four adopted children from the Centre.

It was only a matter of time before Matthew’s good work for All As One

To get involved with All As One’s work in Freetown, Sierra Leone, call (04) 322 6707, (050) 450 8360, email info@aaodubai.org, or visit the website www.aaodubai.org

caught the attention of his Dubai contemporaries – one of whom, his good friend David Thomson, Chief Operating Officer for JA Resorts & Hotels, was sufficiently inspired to mobilise the hotel group’s resources to help the charity. JA Resorts & Hotels has now been working alongside All As One for over four years, sponsoring children at the Centre, as well as sending out regular supply packages and gifts.

“I’m so proud to be able to say we work alongside the people who keep the orphanage running,” enthuses Thomson. “And even prouder to call them my friends.”

As Sierra Leone journeys down the long, rocky road to recovery, the needs of the country’s children – the very people who embody the country’s future – are as great as ever. For all the good work of All As One and its supporters, Deanna points out that for every child the charity helps, there are literally hundreds they are forced to turn away due to lack of resources. However, judging from the infectious enthusiasm that permeates All As One, the future is bright – it would seem that the charity is abundant in the most important resource of all: hope. magazine

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action

five minutes with‌.

Scott Ladyman centre manager of Watercooled

scott ladyman

How did you become involved in watersports?

I have always been active in sports from a very young age, but it was watersports that always stood out for me. I enjoyed it so much that I took Outdoor Studies at college.

That was the beginning of what I’m doing now.

Which other countries have you worked in?

All around the world including France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Switzerland, Bahrain and now the UAE. They are all amazing countries in their own way.

What’s the best part about working here in the UaE? Sunshine all year round and a great city on your doorstep.

Which watersport do you prefer?

Windsurfing is 100% my favourite sport.

With the right wind, kit and conditions, it really is the nearest thing to flying. I also love teaching sailing because it is so diverse and interesting. It’s like another language at times. and what’s the trickiest sport to teach?

Windsurfing is very difficult to teach as it requires a lot of concentration at first. Once the students are through the first few hours they all love it.

Have you ever injured yourself?

Thankfully I have never seriously damaged myself, although I’ve had a few wipe-outs when windsurfing in Dubai’s’ sandstorms’.

WinDsuRfinG is veRy DifficulT To TeAch As iT RequiRes A loT of concenTRATion AT fiRsT

Ever taught anyone famous?

We have had Scott Mills from BBC Radio 1, Kerry Katona and Olympic gold medallist Luke Campbell at the centre within the last year.

What would you be doing if you weren’t working in the industry?

I really couldn’t imagine doing anything else. Come and visit the centre and you’ll see exactly why.

What makes Watercooled different from other centres?

Watercooled is the only five-star watersports centre in the UAE; this includes the service, safety and equipment. We offer a huge range of different activities, with the best instructors in the industry to help you every step of the way.

If someone had a spare day at Watercooled, what would you recommend they try?

I would suggest they start off the morning with some energising SUP (standup paddleboard) yoga, followed by a wakeboarding tow behind our impressive Master Craft X2 ski boat. If they still have the energy left for an afternoon session, they could join one of our introductory courses for sailing or windsurfing to learn the basics of the sport and then finish the day with a boat ride along the coast, around The Palm and across to see the Burj Al Arab at sunset.

Watercooled, JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort, Jebel Ali, Dubai. Tel: 04 887 6771. www.watercooleddubai.com

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ACTION

tried and tested:

THE RANGE ROVER EVOQUE The Evoque is Range Rover’s solution to the problems facing urban 4x4 drivers across the world, with a new 2.0-litre engine (producing 237 break horsepower and accelerating 0-100kph in 7.6 seconds) offering a lighter and more fuel-efficient drive

THE GOOD If you haven’t driven a large 4x4 vehicle before you might assume that you can expect heavy steering, difficulty parking and minimal acceleration due to the bulk of the car. But put your assumptions aside when you hop into the Evoque. Designed to be compact while still adhering to all the off-roading capabilities of your traditional Range Rover, the Evoque’s steering is so light you could manoeuvre the wheel with your fingertips, and the neat bodywork means it’s easy to park, whether you use the rear cameras or not. The navigation and control system is comprehensive, with a touch-screen display offering increased functionality for drivers on the road, and even a choice of interior display lights to suit all tastes. Bluetooth and audio-streaming come as standard, offering plenty of options for drivers who aren’t a fan of traditional radio 62

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FACT FILE – and on the more expensive models back-seat passengers will be satisfied with the headrest entertainment screens.

THE BAD

Despite its relatively small engine, compared to other models in the Range Rover line, the Evoque can produce exciting acceleration when required. However, when you put the pedal to the metal, if you aren’t in Sport mode, the Evoque might leave you hanging waiting for that burst of power.

Space is another issue that might come up for families – admittedly, we tested the coupé so that was always going to complicate accessing the back seats, but compared to other threedoor cars the process of moving the front seats was slow, and accommodating adult back-seat passengers left minimal leg room in the front.

The boot space, however, is excellent.

THE VERDICT If you are looking for a safe and dymanic 4x4 that’s easy to manoeuvre, the Evoque would be a good choice. Ideal for city-dwellers who enjoy a higher view of the road, this compact, easy to park vehicle is a pleasure to drive.

The Range Rover Evoque is available as either a compact coupé or a roomier fivedoor model, with prices starting from AED 240,000 in the UAE for the Evoque Dynamic 2.0 Si4. www.landrover.com

TRIED & TESTED

64 66 68 70

TREND ALERT TOP TOYS STORY TIME COOL KIDS

family

tRend aleRt

Preppy

The laTesT looks from The junior caTwalk aT Global kids fashion week will keep your liTTle ones up-To-daTe wiTh This season’s new sTyles

Celebrity Style iCon: Romeo Beckham Posh and becks’ lad has a bright career ahead of him modelling for burberry as a minigentleman.

scotch shrunk 64

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Lead from the front of the fashion Pack with this season’s number one trend – think hipster style for kids. accessories like fedoras or braces are the key to making this look good; true prep-stars might even throw in a bowtie.

In your wardrobe AeD 49, H&M, www.hm.com

Ladylike

cLass is the name of the game when it comes to this particular trend – think classic tailoring, ladylike hemlines and sophisticated patterns to flatter your little princess.

Celebrity Style iCon: SuRi cRuiSe tom and Katie’s daughter is famed for her love of sophisticated fashion, even at an early age.

In your wardrobe

shorts

AeD 95, Mothercare, www.mothercare.com

sporty

chloe

this is a tricky one to get right if you don’t want your nippers to end up looking like they’re off to gym class. mix neon brights and sports fabrics with more classic pieces – and don’t forget the allimportant hi-top trainers.

munster kids

Whether they’re taiLored, Patterned or sporty, shorts are in this season whatever the weather. on cooler days add long socks or choose a more classic look for sunny days with leather sandals or sneakers.

Celebrity Style iCon: WilloW & Jaden Smith Known for pushing the boundaries of contemporary fashion, Will and Jada’s kids are the trendsetters of their generation.

In your wardrobe AeD 115, oshKosh b’Gosh, www.carters.com/ oshkosh

Alberta Ferretti resort 2013

In your wardrobe AeD 115, Marks and Spencer, www.marksandspencer.com anne kurris

Celebrity Style iCon: kingSton RoSSdale How could Gwen Stefani’s son not pull off one of this season’s biggest trends?

family

Why should it only be adults who get to enjoy shopping? Take this list of the uae’s toy stores and treat your little ones to a fun-filled day out CandyliCious

01

Although not strictly a toy store, Candylicious deserves a mention for having the world’s largest selection of candy. The brightly coloured store features thousands of types of candy, from gummies to peach rings, chocolates and cola bottles.

Word to the wise: if you’re calorie counting, it’s best to let the kids go in alone.

Candylicious, Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 330 8700. www.candyliciousshop.com

The Toy sTore

Colourful, fun and noisy are what all good toy stores should be, and on these counts The Toy Store does not disappoint. With branches in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the brand offers something for kids of all ages – from preschool right through to older children and adults who are young at heart. The stores also host frequent fun events, including premieres of major 66

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01 Candylicious 02 Early Learning Centre 03 Toys “R” Us 04 The Toy Store

kids’ movies, pantomimes, competitions, arts and craft activities and educational workshops.

The Toy Store has branches across the UAE, including in Abu Dhabi Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mall of the Emirates. www.mytoystore.com

hamleys

William Hamley’s famous toy shop was first established in London in 1760. Two and a half centuries later and the brand’s reputation for choice and quality is still going strong – and the British favourite has a spot in Dubai Mall. The sheer choice of toys

toy store

02

03

Our pick of the shelves

in this branch is dizzying, and you should spend an entire afternoon here in order to experience it all.

There are also a number of play areas where your little ones can enjoy some of the toys before you head to the checkout.

Hamleys, Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 339 8889. www.hamleys.com

Toys “r” us

Now present in the Middle East for more than 16 years, Toys “R” Us is a firm favourite.

All the UAE stores offer an impressive assortment of games, sporting goods,

baby products, educational and development toys and software, plus toys for the beach.

Toys “R” Us has branches across the UAE, including in Dubai Festival City and Sharjah City Centre. www.toysrusuae.com

early learning CenTre With more than 300 stores worldwide, the Early Learning Centre certainly knows a thing or two about toys. The brand creates its own playthings, which are designed to develop vital skills and help children get off to an educational start in their lives. The great part about the Early Learning Centre is that your children are free to take the toys out of the box and play with

 Looking to recreate the Burj Khalifa in all its glory?

Then this 136-piece 3D puzzle of the famous tower will keep you and the kids entertained for hours. (Hamleys, AED 199).  It’s not just adults who drive fancy cars in the UAE – now even the little ones are at it.

Treat your little tike to his or her very own 2011 Audi R8 Spyder, which features topof-the-range features such as a glossy body finish, an MP3 player, and forward and reverse gears. (Hamleys, AED 2,299).  If your little one fancies herself as a bit of a mermaid, why not treat her to the Lalaloopsy Magical Mermaid doll? Her hair magically changes colour in the water.

(The Toy Store, AED 255).

04

them in order for them to choose exactly what they like best. What’s more, once you take these toys home, you can throw them around as much as you want – they seldom break.

Early Learning Centre has branches across the UAE, including in Wafi Mall, Sharjah Mega Mall and Dubai Mercato Mall. www.elc.co.uk

Wizz

Looking for something a bit more quirky and original?

Wizz offers a range of gifts, gadgets and toys, ranging from singing ducks to inflatable costumes and chocolate calculators. This is the perfect place to be for older children and anyone with a good sense of humour.

Wizz has outlets across Dubai, including in Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates. www.wizz.ae magazine

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STORY TIME

A tale about the UAE for bedtime reading

Haji and THe Magic drink There was once was a boy named Haji.

He lived in the desert with his family.

He hunted for food with falcons, so fast.

His home was the sand dunes, soaring and vast.

a Saluki dog named ain was Haji’s best friend.

When his parents didn’t look she even slept in his tent. and thus they lived happy, free and blessed, until one day they were greatly distressed.

Haji’s grandmother fell ill and weak, confined to her bed she could barely speak.

They tried deshisha soup, camel milk, even baths in hot sand, but none of their remedies worked in the end.

“We must get help!” yelled Haji in fear.

He proceeded to search the lands far and near.

He found a medicine woman at last and brought her to grandma very fast.

The healer said “The only cure is a magic drink.

You must go and fetch me three spices, i think.”

Mum said “Father must stay here to watch over us all, So Haji you go even though you’re still small.”

Haji was scared but put on a brave face, Proud to be chosen to take his dad’s place. “i will find the herbs in the souqs of dubai,” He said and went on his way with a sigh.

He walked and walked across the desert sand, day and night he went and went. just when he though he could walk no more, in the distance tall buildings into the sky he saw soar.

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toy store

Haji passed the Marina as if in a dream, Then the Burj al arab, jumeirah Beach and downtown’s gleam.

The buildings he saw grew higher and higher, places he had heard of Only in stories told by the fire.

He finally found the creek, but how could he reach the opposite shore? a man told him “Take the abra. it costs only one dirham, no more.” in deira Haji entered the Spice Souq’s flurry.

He said “i need saffron, turmeric and thyme in a hurry.”

Healing herbs in hand towards home Haji flew.

The medicine woman cooked up her brew. “i feel much better,” grandma said with a smile.

“Haji come sit and tell me about dubai for a while.” everyone cheered and thanked their boy.

“You’re our hero! a big feast let’s enjoy.”

But he could keep his eyes open no more.

He was tired, so tired as never before. not a word of his adventure he could tell, Before sound asleep brave Haji fell.

by Christina Fernandes Illustrated by Ania Kalinowska

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Cool kids Sunny weather seems like the ideal playing conditions for your little ones, but it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Read on to find out how the family can beat the heat this summer

Hydration When children are out playing on a beautiful day, it would be optimistic to expect them to remember to pause for a drink often enough to keep themselves from becoming dehydrated – so it falls to parents or other responsible adults to ensure they are actually drinking their fluids. There are plenty of ways to make rehydrating fun for little ones – here are just a few to try 70

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Make juice ice-cubes Using your child’s favourite juice or squash to make ice cubes is a great way to make water a colourful and tasty treat without huge amounts of added sugar.

Get sneaky Many fruits and vegetables hold precious water stores – lettuce, watermelon and broccoli are made up of at least 90% water, making them great snacks for little ones in need of rehydration, although they aren’t a substitute.

Chart it up Some children just don’t like to drink water, or don’t have an especially strong

thirst reflex. A wall chart is a great way to keep track of how much they’re drinking, and keep them interested too.

Each time they have a glass of water, have them colour in or add a sticker to the chart, and at the end of the day, there’s a game or prize involved if they make their quota.

style child Sometimes a particular possession can encourage your nippers, so before your trip or once you arrive in a new location, why not take a special outing to the store together and choose a new water bottle or flask. Not only will your child be excited to use their new toy, but it’s a great way to build memories too.

cool kids

Musthaves Cover up Protecting your child’s skin from the sun is one of the most important factors in preventing sunburn and heatstroke in hot weather. Whether that involves keeping them in the shade, slapping on the sunscreen or layering up in the pool; these tips will keep your kids healthy and happy

in the shade Keep children out of direct sunlight between 11am and 4pm. Hotels will usually provide parasols by the pool or beach, so why not devise a game that keeps them entertained away from the midday sun? Tablets such as iPads can be useful in this situation, as the screen visibility is minimal in direct sunlight – meaning to see the film they’re watching or game they’re playing, your kids will have to remain in the shade.

the white stuff Getting your kids to sit still long enough to put on sunscreen might sound like a mission, but there are ways to make it easier. Many brands nowadays produce ‘once a day’ creams or sprays that only need to be reapplied after swimming, rather than every few hours.

the fabric factor Clothing made of light fabrics and colours is an essential part of keeping younger members of the family cool on hot days, but did you know that some clothes come with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) that will tell you how much protection each garment offers your child’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays? Protection ranges from 15UPF, which is acceptable, through to 50+UPF, which is excellent.

foR keeping kidS cool 1

Babiators

3

Portabrella

keep the sun’s rays from harming

compact enough to fit inside

little eyes with these colourful

any suitcase, this full-size,

Babiator baby sunglasses

self-anchoring portable beach

that offer 100% UVA and UVB

umbrella folds down to just 24in

protection, are shatter-resistant

and will offer you and your little

for safety, and are bright enough

ones shade wherever you are.

that you won’t have trouble

for deliveries outside the USA

finding them.

visit www.shopandship.com.

aed 99

aed 147

www.thebabyboutique.com

www.portabrella.com

protecting your children’s

4 Reduce Cosmic Waterbottle Set

exposed skin with sunscreen

A set of five assorted plastic

may not be enough to prevent

water bottles featuring a fun

harmful rays reaching them

cosmic design to liven up drinks

– some new clothes on the

time for your little ones. This

market are beginning to launch

space-age design is great for

with protection factors but

future astronauts but there

most of your wardrobe will not

are plenty of different designs

protect your little ones’ from UV

to choose from, and they’re

rays. one pack of Sunguard in

dishwasher safe too.

each wash will permeate your

aed 55

clothes with Upf30 (Ultraviolet

www.amazon.com

2

SunGuard

protection factor), which will last for up to 20 washes. aed 11 www.sunguardsunprotection.com

at niGHt Dehydration is not just an issue you need to keep an eye on during the day – it can strike overnight too. These days, most hotels have arctic air-conditioning but the cooling process also filters a lot of moisture out of the air. Be sure to keep a flask of water by your child’s bed in case they wake in the night, and make sure they take a drink first thing in the morning to ward off thirst or dehydration. magazine

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The match Big name veterans from the football world gathered at JA Centre of Excellence for the second annual England vs. Scotland Legends Game in the UAE

Seth Johnson, Lee Hendrie and Carlton Palmer

England and Scotland group together after England win 5-2

A traditional Scottish band

The England Team line up before the game Gary McAllister with Liverpool fan Gary Arnold

Teddy Sheringham, Brian O’Neil and Michael Ball

GALLERY

Dave Beasant and Andy Goram

Supporters from both teams enjoyed the event

Fans in the stands

GALLERY

The

party

JA Resorts & Hotels celebrated a company rebrand, new hotel opening and a successful extension project, with a fabulous party at JA Ocean View Hotel

Deborah Thomson, Ian Fairservice, David Thomson and David Fairservice

Lina Montealegre Arias performs for the crowd

Gypsies

Smriti Gulati, Justine Thaysen and Sunita Meht Mehta

Yasser Mansour and Michelle Wilson

Malcolm and Berni Reynolds

Helen Spearman

Jeremy and Emma Coles

DJ Katerina

Jennifer Frank with Ralph and Kimika Melis

Giri and Devika Koteeswaran

Hetty and Joost Post

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A fAmily stAy At JA PAlm tree Court The sounds of the waves lapping the shore give way to children’s laughter, excited conversation and glasses clinking in mutual appreciation.

This is a resort where flip flops are the global dress code and ice cream is on every menu. Where hushed voices approach the spa and giggles echo through the kids’ clubs.

Where there are shouts of ‘fore’ on the golf course and squeals of ‘more’ from the water sports. Where culinary dishes are freshly created and drinks feature tiny umbrellas.

Where there are 15 restaurants and bars and where you can count

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over 200 peacocks. Where ‘no’ isn’t in the vocabulary and where the possibilities are endless.

This is JA Palm Tree Court, where a camera is useful, but where the memories last a lifetime.

From an aerial shot taken from a Seawings flight to the tastiest dish you ate during your holiday, or just a funny tale of the kids getting up to mischief, simply send your photo or anecdote by email to discover@ jaresorts.com or upload it to the Twitter feed @JAresorts, using the hashtag #DiscoverMagazine, for your chance to win.