Jumeirah December 2015

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Season’s Eatings Stay fit and healthy this December

Exquisite Frankfurt Explore museums and local festivities

MICHAEL

No problem

Solve any issue in three steps

FASSBENDER

“I feel compelled to tell these extraordinary and deeply resonant stories”

Sleek styles, beautiful lines, and harmony are on display in the creations from Georges Amatoury. Now available at Cities, his furniture offers modern appeal combined with a classic feel to result in elegant, timeless designs which are perfect for any interior.

DUBAI, U.A.E: The Galleria Mall - Jumeirah - Al Wasl Road T: +971 4 34 34 301 - info@citiesdubai.com RIYADH, KSA: Prince Muhammad Bin Abdulaziz Road, Tahlia Street T: +966 11 218 0007 - info@citiesriyadh.com cities-design-and-lifestyle-store citiesdubai citiesriyadh www.citiesstore.com

Image: Henry Leutwyler / Contour by Getty Images

december 2015<<

Jumeirah Magazine Jumeirah Corporate Office, Al Sufouh Rd, PO Box 73137, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 366 5000, Fax: +971 4 366 5001.

Website: www.jumeirah.com Jumeirah is a trading name of Jumeirah International LLC. A Limited Liability company.

Registration Number 57869.

Share Capital Dhs 300,000 fully paid up.

Jumeirah International LLC its affiliates, parent companies and subsidiaries (“Jumeirah Group”) and the publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication for whatever reason, however caused.

The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of Jumeirah Group or of the publishers.

Readers are advised to solicit advice before acting on the information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. Jumeirah Group and the publishers take no responsibilty for the goods and services advertised. All materials are protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form (Including photocopying or storage in any medium by electronic means) without the written permission of the copyright owner, except as may be permitted by applicable laws.

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Editor-in-Chief

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Managing Partner & Group Editor

lan Fairservice Editorial Director

Gina Johnson Goup Editor

Contents

Sophia Serin Art Director

Karen Evans Editor

Danae Mercer danae@motivate.ae

Monitor

Picture Editor

Janelle Salangsang

Essential news and previews

Contributors

Rachel Ingram, Phill Tromans

23 City Watch Discover exclusive events around the world

Publisher – Luxury & Lifestyle

Negar Ghodstinat negar@motivate.ae General Manager – Production

S Sunil Kumar Production Manager

R. Murali Krishnan Production Supervisor

Venita Pinto Chief Commercial Officer

Anthony Milne Group Sales Director

Craig Wagstaff

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26 Outdoor Expansions Madinat Jumeirah is offering the largest hotel event space in the UAE 28 A Festival of Films DIFF returns to Dubai with an amazing new line-up

Group Sales Manager

Ziad Saleh ziad@motivate.ae Abu DhAbi OffiCE Publisher

Imane Eddinari for Jumeirah

Piers Schreiber

Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai UAE, Tel: +971 4 427 3000, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

30 Glimmer and Glamour Swarovski launches an exhibition in Harvey Nichols Dubai

Featured 34 Fascinating Fassbender We speak to the Hollywood star on acting and goals 38 No Problem There is a nuance to solving problems 42 Innovative Collaboration Jumeirah partners with Google to go digital and immersive

december 2015<<

Contents 52

Lifestyle 64

49 Global Gifting From faux pas to top tips, we look at the art of gifting 52 Snappy Dresser Kwanpen is changing the industry with luxury products 56 Seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eatings Learn to stay healthy during the many festive celebrations

Travel 64 Fantastic Frankfurt Escape into this beautiful German city in December or anytime 72 A Day and Night in London Explore Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luxurious capital 78 Secret Spaces Unwind with Talise Spa at the stunning Jumeirah Dhevanafushi 82 The High Life Newly opened, The Hide tempts taste buds and delights

crystallinedubai

City WATCH Book now: Ballet Gala

Explore some of the finest events happening this month

DubAi/Abu DhAbi

7 to 8 January 2016

The third annual Paris Opera Ballet Gala once again brings the beauty of French classical ballet to Dubai audiences.

In an outstanding and joyful evening of dance, artists from the Paris Opera National Ballet will perform a selection of classical and contemporary works from the Paris Opera National Collection. The Gala will feature Dorothee Gilbert, one of the most acclaimed dancers of the Opera. All this will happen within the beautiful setting of the Madinat Theatre. ballet Gala with Etoiles and Soloists from Paris Opera ballet, madinatjumeirah.etixdubai.com

Al DhAfrA festivAl 7 to 30 December The UAE is known for its modern infrastructure and glamorous lifestyle, but there is a rich history beneath its surface. Al Ghafra Festival at Madinat Zayed celebrates the country’s Bedouin heritage through a series of interactive events and contests such as the Heritage Camel Race, the Falcon Hunting Competition, the Purebred Arabian Horse Race and the Camel Mazayna Competition – a beauty contest for camels.

Al Dhafra Festival, aldhafrafestival.ae

Golf cup

Compiled by: Rachel Ingram. Images: Getty

2 to 12 December One of Dubai’s premier sporting events, Omega Dubai Ladies Masters, brings together some of the world’s best female golfing champions at the city’s prestigious Emirates Golf Cup. Head down to the tournament to see who will take the cup from 2014’s winner Shanshan Feng from China.

Tennis tournament

Omega Dubai Ladies Masters, dubailadiesmasters.com

from 31 December

Six of the world’s top tennis players, including Rafael Nadal and Milos Raonic, will battle it out at Abu Dhabi’s International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, for the tournament’s winner-takes-all prize of USD250,000. Now that’s worth working New Year’s Eve for.

Mubadala World tennis Championship, mubadalawtc.com

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London

Horse show

15 to 21 December The 108th edition of ‘Olympia, The London International Horse Show’ welcomes the equine world’s most celebrated steeds, their acclaimed riders and equestrian enthusiasts to London for a week of world cup competitions, entertainment and captivating displays such as The Household Cavalry Musical Ride. olympia, The London International Horse Show, olympiahorseshow.com

New YeAr’s eYe 31 December If visiting London over New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the famous fireworks display at the Coca-Coca London Eye. As well as being the largest fireworks show in the UK, it’s all for a good cause as the ticketed event partners with children’s charity UNICEF. London new Year’s Eve, london.gov.uk

A ChristmAs CArol All month For a limited time only, catch A Christmas Carol at the Noel Coward Theatre, featuring Oscar-winning actor Jim Broadbent as protagonist Ebenezer Scrooge. A rendition of the classic Charles Dickens tale, the West End show, directed by Phelim McDermott, will bring festive cheer to even the most stubborn Scrooge.

A Christmas Carol, noelcowardtheatre. co.uk

Winter wonderland All month

For a hearty dose of festive excitement, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the place to go. The annual festival is a must-visit for all the family and features European-style festive markets, a huge ice rink, an ice kingdom, circus shows, game areas and much more.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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Shanghai/iStanbul

royAl PhilhArmonic orchestrA live 11 December One of Britain’s most revered orchestra’s, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, will perform a selection of classical symphonies, renditions of film soundtracks and special covers of songs by Turkish pop star Seven Aksu during a one-off show at the Zorlu Performing Arts Center. the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra live, zorlucenterpsm.com

Die Fledermaus 26 to 27 December

For two nights only, Die Fledermaus will be performed at Shanghai Grand Theatre. The opera, created by late Austrian composer Johann Strauss, takes the audience on a colourful and compelling journey through Vienna’s high society.

Die Fledermaus, shgtheatre.com

Jewellery exhibition All month Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts presents a special collection of over 100 priceless pearls from Qatar. On display will be a range of unusual pearls, jewellery from Roman, Byzantine and Renaissance eras, and jewellery pieces previously owned by members of the world’s leading royal families, such as Diana Princess of Wales. İnci, Denizdeki Mücevher (Pearls, Jewels From the Sea), muze.gov.tr

Television festival 6 to 8 December

Shanghai Television Festival is one of the largest festivals of its kind in East Asia.

A meeting place for television talents and enthusiasts alike, the festival is home to the prestigious Magnolia Awards during which actors, producers, writers and directors are awarded for their contributions to television. There is also a programme of events and forums that visitors can attend.

Shanghai television Festival, stvf.com

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FrankFurt/roMe

Festive market Until 22 December

New Year’s eve 31 December Join Rome’s biggest New Year’s Eve party at the famous Piazza del Popolo, where centuries-old traditions meet modern celebrations. Expect everything from fireworks displays to classical symphony performances, live bands and more.

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets and Frankfurt is home to one of the country’s largest. Held the scenic surroundings of Römerberg, St Paul’s Square and Mainkai, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is a great place to shop for presents or indulge in some mulled wine (Glühwein) and German delicacies such as sausages and lebkuchen (gingerbread biscuits).

Frankfurt Christmas Market, frankfurt-tourismus.de

new Year’s eve at Piazza del Popolo, comune.roma.it

BaroqUe coNcert 29 December The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous chapels in the world, not only for its captivating architecture but also for the music that has graced its halls. The Schola Romana Ensemble has put together a special Christmas Baroque Concert for the Church of Sant’Agnese featuring scores by musicians that played at the chapel during the Baroque era, such as Palestrina, Victoria, Arcadelt, Lasso, Morales and Anerio.

Music of the Sistine Chapel, santagneseinagone.org

The Life Musical all month

On a cold Frankfurt night, head to The English Theatre and catch Cy Coleman’s multi-award winning musical The Life. Telling the story of a queen who falls from grace and wealth, the show is a thrilling exposé of life in the seedier side of society. the Life Musical, english-theatre.de

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>>monitor<<

oUTdoor ExpAnSIonS Madinat Jumeirah is now offering the largest hotel event space in the UAE owing to the completion of the Fort Island expansion. Set over 1,750 square metres, the space is perfect for hosting banquets, parties, concerts, weddings, and other events for up to 1,400 people. The venue features an attractive and sustainable landscape while preserving the fortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional look and feel. It features spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

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23Km

Ave Maria

Peanuts movie

3000 nights

El Clasico

Parisienne

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Fairuz

In the Future, They Ate from the Finest Porcelain

>>monitor<<

Aya Goes to the Beach

a festival

of films The 12th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival runs from 9 to 16 of December.

Since it’s inception in 2004, the festival has served as an influential platform for Arab filmmakers and talent at an international level by spearheading the cinema movement in the region.

Dhanak (Rainbows)

Dry Hot Summers

Song of Lahore

Highlights of DIFF include: the IWC Filmmaker Award, which supports filmmakers from the Gulf in taking their project from script to the big screen; free ‘al fresco’ film screenings hosted on The Beach in JBR; an ‘Arabian Nights’ programme that celebrates new perspectives on the Middle East through films that reflect the constantly shifting culture of the Arab world; an 'Open Conversation' section with famous actor Jake Gyllenhaal; and a special section for entertaining young viewers.

All of this is accented by a wealth of glamorous VIP after-parties, numerous red carpets filled with stars in black tie, and the chance to spot the famous international celebrities who travel to Dubai for the event. Previous guests have included names like Cate Blanchett, Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, George Clooney, and Emily Blunt.

With so many amazing cultural, artistic, and entertaining things happening, it’s clear that DIFF is an event not to be missed.

Madinat Jumeirah is the home of DIFF again this year.

Dubai International Film Festival, diff.ae

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>>fashion<<

gliMMer AND

glamour

Alexander McQueen creations, Michael Jackson’s glove, pieces from Christian Dior and more will be on display in Harvey Nichols Dubai thanks to a special exhibition from Swarovski Pieces from across the Swarovski archive are on display this month at Harvey Nichols Dubai. Featured are some of the brand’s most iconic offerings, like McQueen’s nature-inspired branch-and-stone shoulder piece, and the headpiece worn by Isabella Blow. Chandeliers, bags, and couture dresses are also displayed.

In addition to viewing the exhibition, visitors can purchase a specially made coffee table book designed to celebrate Swarovski’s 120th anniversary. It’s a tribute to “the inspiring work of the visionary artists, designers, couturiers, and innovators who have collaborated with Swarovski over the years,” explains Nadja Swarovski.

The Swarovski Archive Design Exhibition runs until 23 December on Level Two of Harvey Nichols Dubai. Swarovski.com

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HRR Luxury Car Rental Dubai, Garhoud, Red Avenue building, M-04 Tel: +971 42 94 37 32 Fax: +971 42 94 57 20 Mob: +971 56 969 89 99 info@hrrluxurycars.com

Featured Michael Fassbender Actor Steve Jobs p. 34 Solving problems Unusual techniques Three steps p. 38

Image: Getty

Innovative collaboration Google Jumeirah Inside p. 42

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Writing by Danae Mercer and Veronica Parker/FAMOUS. Images: Henry Leutwyler | Contour by Getty Images

>>featured: michael fassbender>>

Fascinating Fassbender Starring in the recently released Steve Jobs, Michael Fassbender is poised to become Hollywood’s new leading man. Here the actor talks about playing complicated characters and his passion for work

He is one of the finest actors in the business, yet Michael Fassbender is arguably still looking for that one special film that will define him. Despite critically-acclaimed performances in Shame, Prometheus, X-Men, and 12 Years a Slave, the Irish-German actor has yet to achieve the kind of stardom that many of his contemporaries have attained. But all that might change with his taking on the title role in the recently released Steve Jobs, the highly anticipated Danny Boyle biopic about the iconic founder of Apple computers and the man behind the iPhone, iPod, and the Mac. Driven by Aaron Sorkin’s superb screenplay based on Walter Isaacson’s best-selling Jobs biography, the film gives Fassbender a chance to “encapsulate the spirit” of the enigmatic genius and mercurial visionary.

“I feel very fortunate to have had the chance to play a man like Steve Jobs who changed the way we live in so many different ways,” Fassbender says.

“He was not only a visionary in terms of the iPhone and all the incredible technology he brought to the world but also in terms of how he changed the retailing culture by creating these large stores and creating a unique customer experience at a time when many stores were disappearing because of the boom in internet sales. Jobs was clearly a man ahead of his time.”

The interview Michael, what do you think Makes this FilM about steve Jobs stand out?

Aaron Sorkin wrote a brilliant script and Danny Boyle has done a lot of interesting things with the story that takes a very unique and original

approach to the biopic. Danny inspired me so much while we were making the film and of course it was a thrill to portray a figure of Jobs’ stature and vision. was it an issue that you don’t reseMble Jobs at all?

No. From the beginning it was clear that there was no way to make me look like Jobs and so we didn’t even try. Our emphasis was on exploring what drove the man and what his nature and spirit were like. Those are the elements which really stood out for me and what I worked hard to capture.

The biggest difficulty or obstacle for me in tackling the role was how inept I am when it comes to technology. I have very little facility when it comes to computers and other devices so I had to try to raise my level of familiarity with that world. The more I learnt about him the more I admired him and appreciated how profoundly he changed our world. The products he developed will be a major part of our lives well into the future. you’re also playing Macbeth. is it your preFerence to play very intense characters such as those you also played in

shaMe and 12 years a slave?

It seems that way, although I’m not consciously looking to play very aggressive or difficult characters. It’s just that whenever these opportunities haves presented themselves to me there’s no way I can turn these roles down.

I mean, even though I never imagined playing Macbeth in a film, it was such a great challenge that I knew I had to throw myself into it. Characters like Steve Jobs or Macbeth all have an incredible aura and I simply feel compelled to tell these extraordinary and deeply resonant kinds of stories.

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Was it tough shooting Macbeth in fairly cold conditions?

Yes, but the best thing about shooting in Scotland is the whisky! It was also the worst thing! (Laughs)

scares me if I spend too much time not working. You feel this pressure to take advantage of every opportunity because you think you’re making up for lost time and maybe those great roles won’t come up every year. That’s why I feel this constant hunger to keep working.

you’ve also acted in and produced sloW West, a Western?

I’ve been a huge fan of Westerns since I was a little boy and playing around the house in my cowboy outfit. (Laughs) I loved all the spaghetti Westerns and Clint Eastwood was my favourite Western hero. Apart from those films I also loved Unforgiven and my part in Slow West is a tribute to Clint Eastwood, especially the idea of having a cigarillo in my mouth! (Laughs) My father is German and he was a huge fan of the Karl May Western books which led me to watch those movies and which also inspired my passion for the genre. hoW did you coMe to be involved as a producer of the filM?

I had done a short film called Man on The Motorcycle with John Maclean.

He came up with the idea for a Western one day around the same time and we’ve been working on it on-and-off ever since. We shot it in New Zealand which was standing in for Colorado and it’s this wonderful love story that takes place within the genre of a Western. you seeM to enjoy Making filMs back-to-back. are you a Workaholic When it coMes to Making Movies?

(Laughs) It seems that way but it’s more a matter of not wanting to turn down a project because of the enormous frustration I would feel if I didn’t take the role and then a year or so later I see that someone else played the part and the film turned out to be a huge success. I also have this sense of having waited so long in my 20s before I started to get major roles that it

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your father Was once a chef at a five-star hotel and ran his oWn restaurant. are you a good cook?

I can come up with a few interesting dishes if I’m called upon. But I’m never really at home for any length of time so I rarely do any cooking. obviously you enjoy acting and being part of the process of Making filMs?

I love acting. I love the life of an actor and getting to enjoy this very strange existence that is unreal on many levels. There’s something inside of me that loves creating and becoming these characters. It’s addictive at times to do this job because there’s such a contrast between the life you lead while you’re working on a film and then when you have to come back to reality.

You want to keep going back to that other world. is it hard on your personal life to Work so Much?

It doesn’t make it easy. I know I should slow down and take some time to travel a bit more and not always be thinking about the next project but it’s hard for me. I’ll probably take a break - next year, maybe!

What drives you as an actor?

A lot of it has to do with pushing yourself beyond your limits and facing up to your fear of failing. It’s part of my thinking that if I’m going to fail, at least I’m going to fail at the highest level.

>>featured: michael fassbender>>

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Image: Getty

No pRoblem 38

How do you solve a problem? Through three steps and a lot of metaphors, argues Andy Reid

>>featured: problem solving<<

The last year has been a bad year for map reading. In fact, the first 15 years of the new millennium have done nothing for human capability. According to the Ordnance Survey, other lost arts include reading a compass, knitting, taking up a hem, using an index and remembering a phone number. Whilst I challenge the need in our present lives for the ready knowledge of knitting, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m adding what I believe to be a more worrisome capability in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;lost skillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; eulogy: the art of being able to solve a problem and arrive at a solution without consulting a search engine.

What goes on in our heads when solving a problem remains a mystery to many. The reality is that we are not doing enough problem solving well. Our world is accelerating in complexity of our own making at a speed greater than we can respond.

I have witnessed a worrying trend in global business and strategy where high volumes of people spend more time on bigger projects, only to agree on answers that are disproportionate to the resources that yielded them.

We need to become better at solving problems, which starts by changing our personal behaviour. However, the existing advice out there is rubbish. Running hot baths and enjoying sunsets will relax you. Going for a run or a stint on the rowing machine will give you time to think. But none of these things guarantee an idea. I argue that having an idea takes effort.

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‘‘

>>featured: problem solving<<

All this advice might sound obvious but ask yourself when you genuinely last combined all of these disciplines at once. Sitting at our desks and thinking is not the right way to solve a problem.

Newton’s laws apply to creative thinking too: if you want an idea, you must put in the work. You will experience an equal and opposite resistance to your endeavours, but that’s the very point. It’s during the mental struggle you create new neural pathways and arrive at your epiphany.

To understand this a bit more, let’s look at the difference between ‘brain’ and ‘mind’. Our brain is like a huge museum storehouse filled with experience, information and knowledge. All this is neatly boxed and filed in a self-organising way. As a result, we’re wired to hinder creative thought, as everything needs to be a certain place in order for basic programmes to operate. Our mind is the curator of the museum storehouse. That curator thinks at two levels: consciously and subconsciously. We are either aware of what our mind is asking (conscious), or we are not (subconscious). Our subconscious processing is richer and faster than our conscious mind. Let me give an example: until you read these following words, you most likely weren’t immediately aware of the colour of your clothes or what you had for your last meal. But do you see how easy it is to retrieve what your subconscious had decided what wasn’t important? It processes information deeply, allowing you to focus on other things.

It’s there, in your subconscious, that problems are solved. Thus the key to getting an answer is to create new connections between the subconscious processing power of your mind and what you feed it through conscious action.

You cannot make new connections if you don’t have new sources of information. It is therefore vital to stimulate your brain as often as possible.

And how do we do this? In short, through metaphors. Metaphors are essential to the process of thinking. They exist in all cultures and languages, operating as a universal cement that glues the bricks of understanding together (you can see what I’ve just done). When we spot metaphors in our self-talking and thinking, it’s our subconscious mind telling us we’re on to something.

Metaphors are the key to unlocking answers to problems we face.

This means, the next time you have a problem, step away from the Epson salts and the hot bath. Instead, look at metaphors. How? Through three steps.

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First, ask ‘who else’ or ‘where else’ has the core of your question been successfully answered. To do this, reduce your question to a few words. For example, is your question about getting it ‘right first time’, ‘saving lives’, or ‘doing more with less’? By expressing your challenge in a new language, your subconscious mind is fed fresh stimulus. When you express your issue as something ‘a bit like…’ then the following metaphor is stimulus for your subconscious mind.

Other people are a rich source of stimulus and metaphor, providing you take care not to invite judgement. Too often a first thought is stamped on by wellwishing pragmatists. However, certain comments can be embraced. Testing initial thoughts through other people gives you feedback. It’s not about asking other people to solve your issues (that’s your challenge), but asking for their perspectives and insights.

Finally, metaphors need not be verbal. They can be illustrative. I suggest always carrying paper and two pens (one for you and one for a creative acquaintance).

Drawing your challenge using the simplest of markings forces your brain to express in a different way. Again, what has been processing at a deeper level will consciously come to the fore as you draw. I have witnessed many occasions in strategy meetings moments of clarity through drawing.

All this advice might sound obvious but ask yourself when you genuinely last combined all of these disciplines at once. Sitting at our desks and thinking is not the right way to solve a problem. However it’s not enough to hope that switching off our phones and relaxing will garner results either. To be mentally fit and fertile we must work hard when we think. But working hard need not be hard work.

Andy Reid is the Founding Director of theGeniusBox, a creative agency on a mission to inspire people to think differently and solve problems. He has worked with a range of global businesses including Red Bull, HSBC, Castrol, VISA, Emirates and JWT. His work brings together a passion for design and engineering, psychology and innovation. Reid lives the UK and travels regularly to the UAE and beyond.

InnovatIve CollaboratIon

Interactive elements, stunning videos, hidden treasures, beautiful pictures, and elements of gamification throughout form the newly launched Jumeirah Inside. This impressive 360-degree platform, created in collaboration with Google, provides a fully immersive digital travel experience. Highlights include the opportunity to dive into the Talise Spa infinity pool, stroll through the magnificent Royal Suite, and explore Dubai from the exclusive helipad. The result is not just a tour through a building. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a journey through a brand.

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>>featured: innovative collaboration<<

We speak to Ross McAuley, Vice President of Brand, Digital, and Loyalty, and Ali Hashmi, Industry Manager Emerging Travel at Google, to learn more.

Where did the project begin?

McAuley: We are lucky enough to have a really strong partnership with Google as a brand. The first serious collaboration Jumeirah and Google had was on YouTube a few years ago. Producing high quality content, and making sure potential guests had access to it, resulted in Jumeirah becoming the most viewed hotel brand on YouTube. It astounded us. So the question became: What next?

How do we take this forward?

So how did you move on from your impressive YouTube success?

McAuley: We noticed a trend towards more immersive content, something incorporating sound and videos. We also wanted something that was user-centric. That was always key for us. So we collaborated with Google, and decided to set ourselves a bold and ambitious target: to create the world’s most immersive hospitality experience.

And the result was Jumeirah Inside?

McAuley: Yes. It was looking at the journey through a hotel experience from a user perspective.

Why has Google become involved?

Hashmi: When we look to partner with brands, we partner with those who have the same vision of digital. Our job here is to showcase the power of digital on our platforms, but also more broadly to highlight the power of digital. And Jumeirah, given its early commitment to digital, and the journey it has been on, it was the perfect partner.

You talk a lot about the ‘power of digital’.

Can you explain.

Hashmi: If you look at the insights, we can tell you that over 60 percent of prospective travellers turn to the internet when planning their journeys. Around 90 percent of affluent travellers, when they look at video [when researching a destination], they take some sort of action after that. So digital is the ability to provide everyone, both prospective and aspirational customers, access in a way they never had before.

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>>featured: innovative collaboration<<

So why not just use pictures?

Hashmi: At the end of the day, it’s not just about images. It’s how you bring that together with other elements. Jumeirah Inside is the most perfectly articulated answer to what 360-degree videos and immersive means for brands that exist today.

What about mobile?

McAuley: This platform has been built with mobile in mind. Half the traffic that comes to Jumeirah at the moment comes from a mobile device. We painstakingly thought about the user experience on mobile and crafted a journey that was engaging. For example, you can use a gyroscope functionality to look around the location you're in. The view moves as your screen does!

Did anything surprise you?

McAuley: We have content hotspots throughout the entire experience where you can click on an item and it will expand, show

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you video or photo or have some text. We found that with the Burj Al Arab, when it was built, there were two accessibility concepts. One was an underwater tunnel. One was a cable car. Even I didn’t know that.

What impact will Jumeirah Inside have?

Hashmi: As someone who works with hotel brands around the world, innovation through technology is at the core of what Google does. I think from that angle, what we have done will set the standard for the industry. In our world, you get to interact with a lot of brands. But when you do something that changes the standard, those are the special ones. And Jumeirah Inside is a hospitality industry first. It doesn’t matter where you go – you’re not going to find an experience as rich as this.

Jumeirah Inside works across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices, in English, Arabic, German, Russian, and Mandarin. It can be accessed on jumeirah.com

The promise of a great adventure!

Join us on a magic carpet ride over the Dubai desert. Catch the rising sun at 4000 feet and descent to a vast expanse of golden sand dunes. See roaming camels, galloping gazelles and the mighty Arabian oryx in their natural habitat.

Let some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most experienced pilots take you on a ride of a lifetime!

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES For booking and information visit: www.ballooning.ae or phone +971 4 2854949

LIFESTYLE Art of gifting Faux pas Correct techniques p. 49 Snappy dresser Kwanpen Luxury goods p. 52

Image: Getty

Festive food Fine dining Healthy holidays p. 56

>>art of gifting<<

Global GiFtinG

images: Getty

From what not to do in China to the playfulness of the US, journalist Phill Tromans reports on how to gift around the world

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December is a festive time around the world, and for retail businesses the rush to buy presents is a welcome part of the year. But depending on for whom you’re buying, finding and presenting a gift can be fraught with social angst.

The concept of gifting dates back to a time before dates; anthropologists believe it’s an inherent part of human social interaction. They even have a name for it – reciprocity. Exactly when reciprocity began isn’t clear, but experts theorise that personal adornment, mixed with the interactions between groups of early humans, led naturally to an exchange of such adornments to solidify mutual cooperation.

Whether or not that theory is accurate, gift giving has for millennia been common to human interactions around the world, for marking occasions, celebrations or even mourning. But the finer details vary dramatically from region to region and even country to country.

It is perhaps in Japan where the etiquette of presents is most advanced and, for the uninitiated, the most complicated. The culture of gifting is hugely important in both social and business circles, with travelling businessmen and women advised to bring a selection of gifts with them in case they’re needed.

Although gifts in Japan are often expensive, it’s the act of giving and the way it’s presented that’s more important than the gift itself. Gifts should be given and received with both hands, signifying the importance of the occasion, but it’s considered polite to refuse – or at least, appear to refuse – once or twice before accepting. Much is made of the way the gift is prepared, and many gifts in Japan will be beautifully presented in carefully folded wrapping paper or even furoshiki – a traditional cloth used to wrap gifts.

Numbers are significant in Japanese culture, so anything numbering four or nine should be avoided as those digits signify bad luck. To be on the safe side, present in pairs. But what to give, and when? In Japan, the big gift-giving occasions are Ochugen in mid-July and Oseibo in December when gifts are presented to those to whom the giver is grateful – usually parents, relatives and close friends. Food is always a good option, as Japanese cupboards are often full of gifts already.

Festivals and celebrations are perfect times to buy gifts in India. From weddings and births to religious festivals like Eid, Diwali or Christmas, Indians love a present. A visit to a friends’ house is the ideal time to bring some sweets or dried fruits, and for special occasions the gift is often less important than the act and the thinking behind it. Yellow, green and red are considered lucky colours and so are the perfect choice for wrapping paper, but be aware that if a gift is wrapped it probably won’t be opened until later.

In Latin America, the etiquette changes once again. Brazilian gifting culture features alcohol rather prominently, with wine, scotch or champagne considered an excellent gift when visiting someone’s home. It’s perhaps less suitable for children, so remember to bring something separate if they’re present at the gathering. As with some other cultures, gifts between sexes can be misinterpreted, so a present from a man to a woman should be explained as coming from his wife or partner. Presents will normally be opened when received. Gifting in business is much less prevalent in Brazil than some other countries, and in fact could even be interpreted as a bribe. If a gift is really necessary, it’s best to present it in a social setting rather than a business meeting.

Whether or not that theory is accurate, gift giving has for millennia been common to human interactions around the world for marking occasions, celebrations or even mourning.

While gifts are central to Japanese social interaction, other regions are very different. In Saudi Arabia, most gifts are exchanged only by very close friends, as receiving something from a lesser-known acquaintance can be seen as embarrassing and even insulting. When choosing a gift, it should be of the highest quality possible to show maximum respect to the recipient.

Between close friends, the gift will usually be opened immediately, and a considerable show made of examining it to return that respect to the giver. In larger groups, it’s considered polite to only open a gift later. It’s considered rude in Saudi society to refuse a gift, but be careful – complementing someone else’s possession can make the owner feel obligated to gift it, which tradition dictates should prompt a reciprocal gift of greater value.

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In the USA, the etiquette surrounding gifts is more relaxed than the countries above, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t big business. Retail sales during the holiday season totalled USD619.9 billion in 2014, a number that’s rising every year. The greeting card industry is particularly strong in the US, with occasions that perhaps don’t always ‘deserve’ gifts being the perfect time to buy a card instead. When gifts are given, toys are a staple for children, while for adults fine foods, chocolates, electronic gadgets and jewellery are common. At birthdays and Christmas, gifts will often be opened all together at the end of the day, but weddings are an exception – on such occasions, gifts are left by the guests and taken home and opened by the bride and groom later, with guests subsequently thanked by a personalised, hand-written card.

As 2016 approaches and you ponder what to get your friends, family and business acquaintances, take care – in many countries, some gifts are a big no-no. In Japan, avoid lilies and lotus blossoms as these are associated with funerals, and in India white flowers also symbolise death. The same is true in Brazil of anything black and purple, and knives, scissors or letter openers could be interpreted as a symbol of breaking a bond. In Saudi Arabia it’s best to avoid flowers, gold or silk for a man, as these are traditionally gifts for women.

However, in the USA giving a bad gift is often deliberate, and embarked upon with tongue firmly in cheek. Gag gifts for milestone birthdays or anniversaries are common, so perhaps if your gifting etiquette has let you down, you can always attribute it to some good old fashioned Western humour in a bid to escape your social faux-pas.

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dolce & Gabbana’s trendy headphones parade down the runway

Gift idea: headphones

From chic metal models with impressive technological advances to trendy runway versions perfect for luxurious lounging, headphones are the hot item this season. Here are three of our favourites

Trendy: dolce & Gabbana Paraded in the brand’s fall 2015 runway show, Dolce & Gabbana’s headphones became the collection’s statement piece. By teaming with Frends, an audio company founded by a group of professional snowboarders, the luxury brand gave a high-end spin to smart sound. Embellishments include jewels, pearls, gold chains, velvet, and fur. Prices run between USD7,000 to USD8,000, making this pair more expensive than the quilted Chanel options launched in the brand’s 2014 fall show. Created in partnership with Monster, Chanel’s headphones run around USD5,000. Dolcegabbana.com

ediTor’s pick: advanced communicaTion soluTions (acs) cusTom earphones Designed in collaboration with Beatles producer Sir George Martin, Asprey, and Meridian Audio, only 1,000 pairs of these entirely bespoke earphones will be created. Every set begins with either a soft silicon ear moulding, or a digital scan of the ear canal. After being sent away for bespoke creation, the earphones are delivered anywhere in the world. They arrive in luxurious handmade Asprey packaging, presented alongside a limited-edition portrait

of Sir George (painted by legendary drummer Gilson Lavis). “As an overall product, whether it’s for yourself or as a gift, it’s the experience you’re buying,” explains Natalie Ormsby, Special Projects Manager, ACS. “It’s really something unique, and there’s the quality within the sound. When you listen to music, even one of your favourite songs, and you hear it in this format, it changes the way you hear sound.” A generous donation from each set will go towards funding vital research carried out by UK charity Action on Hearing Loss. Acssignatureseries.com

Tech: oppo pm-3 These light weight, noise-isolating headphones focus on sound without being cumbersome. Planar magnetic technology is used to create exceptional audible quality. Added to this is a slick metal design, making something that sounds great while still being stylish. The headphones, notes Jason Liao, CTO and Vice President of Product Development, OPPO Digital Inc, are doing well: “We plan to keep these headphones on the market for some time.” Yet the brand is doing research into multi-tone distortion measurement to quantify headphone performance. Oppodigital.com

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snappy

dresser Luxury brand Kwanpen has started its global expansion. Phill Tromans reports

Singapore is not a country known for its manufacturing. The tiny citystate has a global reputation as a hub for finance and commerce, but handmade products are a rarity, which is why luxury leather goods company Kwanpen is so unusual.

The Singaporean firm has made fine quality crocodile leather handbags for almost 80 years, and is in the process of expanding worldwide. Outlets already exist around South East Asia and the Middle East, and a new store in London’s prestigious Burlington Arcade marks the start of a European venture.

It’s a long way from the firm’s origins in the late 1930s, when leather worker Kwan Pen Seng moved to Singapore from China. He first produced bags for British officers, but after World War II branched out on his own and moved from cowhide to crocodile leather, making bags by hand in his home and then selling them door-to-door. The British customers assumed Pen Seng’s first name was Kwanpen, which resulted in the company moniker.

As business grew he involved his sons. Now eight members of the Kwan family work at the firm.

One of those is director Jonathan Kwan, Pen Seng’s grandson. Today he helps oversee 56 craftsmen, each who train for five years before being allowed to build a bag. The company makes just 400 a month for its 21 retail outlets, and each one takes more than 50 hours to create. Prices start at USD3000

for a clutch and around USD4500 for a full sized bag, which features ancillary parts made from gold or palladium-covered brass.

“When you’re a small company you have to pay attention to all the details on the bag,” explains Jonathan as he reflects on the company’s growth. “You can’t do it mass market, so it has to be of a certain quality before you can sell it. That has always been our main focus.”

The use of crocodile leather was originally because of the plentiful supply of hides in Singapore from Malaysia, Thailand and Australia. As the leather became more expensive, it became even more appropriate for highend bags. Today, Kwanpen sources its hides from approved farms in the region. By its nature, it’s a material that requires careful hands and a keen eye to get the details exact.

“Each piece is very unique,” says Jonathan. “Crocodiles have their own scales and each and every one differs, like fingerprints.” This means that the design of bag is matched to the available hides, rather than the other way around.

“If you make a bag with cow leather you pick the best part of the grain, cut it and put it on a bag. With crocodile leather, if a bag is 28cm across, you have to use a 30cm crocodile to be able to see the scales on the bag. I’ve seen pieces that are small bags, using a big piece of crocodile leather and you can only see a fraction of the skin, which defeats the purpose.”

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There are more quirks of crocodile leather that make it difficult to work with if the craftsman isn’t skilled, continues Jonathan. “It gets scratched very easily, so you have to be very delicate. The moment you do a wrong twist, you won’t be able to sell the bag as it doesn’t look new. People who buy our bags use them normally and you want them to age gracefully, so then it adds character. But when you but it, you want it to look new.”

With expansion well under way, Kwanpen would like to grow operations, but it’s not willing to compromise on quality.

“We do want to push production up, but to train a craftsman takes about five years,” Jonathan says. “In Singapore people want to be lawyers, bankers, accountants – not many people want to work with their hands, so you have to find the person that has the passion and a willingness to learn for five years before they can start making a proper bag.”

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The incentive to grow is there though: as well as reaching new markets with their range of ladies’ handbags, there’s increasing demand from male customers.

“Three years ago men started buying more, so we’ve seen a shift in market preference for leather goods,” says Jonathan. “We’re seeing from five percent male customers to about 35 percent in just three years. They buy passenger bags, briefcases and so on.”

Don’t be too surprised then to see Kwanpen pop up in a market near you, but don’t expect too much advertising.

“We don’t really do much marketing,” Jonathan says. “We’re always known to people in the know, who mix in the same circles and introduce our brand through word of mouth. Our customers know what they want, and they go for quality rather than big brand names.”

Shop 28, Building 1, Gold and Diamond Park, near First Gulf Bank Metro Station

SeaSonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S eatinGS Image: Getty

Eating healthy during the holidays need not be a struggle. Gabriele Kurz, Executive Wellbeing Chef Talise Nutrition, Jumeirah Group, shares her top tips and favourite recipes

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Remember that the festive season is there to celebrate and enjoy. It’s important we don’t sacrifice fully. I can’t say ‘don’t eat anything that’s not healthy’. Imagine not having festive cookies! So it’s just about moderation.

When it comes to staying healthy, the tips are pretty much the same all year round. You should eat wholesomely, and avoid things like white sugar, deep fried foods, white flour, and so forth. Eat as close to nature as possible, and eat a variety of foods.

This means trying to eat all the colours of the rainbow.

During the holidays, don’t forget to have a good balance of vitamins, raw foods and wholesome foods. It’s so very important.

Detox once the holidays are over.

It doesn’t have to be a huge detox, but do something small over a day or two. For example, I put myself on a one-day juice fast, or I do a threeday raw-food-only detox, or I eat raw until 4pm and then in the evening have a light soup. This way everything evens out. It helps you overcome all those extra calories, and the things that aren’t really beneficial to your body.

In general, a papaya bowl is great to detox. Papaya supports liver function, which does the major work within our body to rid toxins. And it tastes heavenly.

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Hibiscus Energy Truffles The red of the dried hibiscus and the green of the lime leaves give this dessert a festive feeling. These healthy sweets are packed with nutrients and natural fibres while still being absolutely delicious. Yet as they are calorie-dense, try to keep these treats for when you need to satisfy sweet cravings.

Ingredients 200g chopped dates 120g almonds skin on, medium ground 30ml rose water 1 pinch salt 1 lemon (zest) 40g sesame seeds 10g dried hibiscus, crushed 5 lime leaves, finely chopped Steps Mix dates with rose water, almonds, salt, and lemon zest. Add as much water as needed to achieve a semisoft smooth paste. Form (with wet hands) small balls out of the paste. Roll them in sesame, hibiscus, and lime leaves. Refrigerate for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month.

Greek yogurt, berries and chia With the vibrant red berries and white chia pudding, this delicious food captures the wintery charm of the festive season. The acai powder is high in antioxidants, as are the berries, while chia seeds are high in inflammation-reducing Omega-3s.

Ingredients 80g mixed berries 500ml Greek yogurt 25g chia seeds 30g acacia honey 1tbsp acai powder 2tbsp cacao nibs Steps Stir the yogurt with acai powder and honey. Mix in chia seeds. Allow to settle and to plump. Serve in glasses topped with berries and sprinkled with cacao nibs. For extra festive flavour, add a few green sprigs of mint leaf.

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Red cabbage ‘cappuccino’ soup This vividly purple soup makes a great starter on any festive menu. Cabbage is amazingly low in calories and a rich source of vitamins and minerals, providing vitamins C, A, and E, all which help in antioxidation. It’s also a naturally good source of calcium. Researchers have identified 36 different varieties of anticancer chemicals in red cabbage, making this dish healthy at all times of year.

Ingredients 300g red cabbage, chopped 1 shallot, diced ¼ apple, peeled and chopped 2 cloves 5ml agave syrup 2tbsp olive oil Salt, pepper 1tbsp apple vinegar 50ml soymilk Steps Braise the shallot, cloves, apple, and cabbage in olive oil and agave. Add 300ml water and simmer for 20 minutes. Blend the soup and work through a semi-fine sieve. Season with salt, pepper, and vinegar. Top with soymilk foam.

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Festive highlights

Staff pick

Where: Plaj, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai What’s unique: A festive outdoor BBQ, this amazing feast occurs beachside.

Details: Enjoy this unique BBQ for one day only.

Happening al fresco, you can expect delicious food, white linen, seasonal decorations, and a relaxed but luxurious ambience. There’s warm bread and mixed salads.

Mains include succulent turkey with cranberry glaze, juicy chicken, and live-station BBQ. A lavish dessert display with amazing cookies and cakes means there’s a treat for every sweet tooth. to book: +971 (0) 44530444 or jzsrsetaurants@jumeirah.com

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Where: The Ivy, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai What’s unique: Three different seatings on December 25th and also takeaway options available the entire festive season Details: This luxurious location will feature festive favourites done in a highend fashion. You can choose between starters like the shellfish cocktail, severn and wye smoked salmon, or foie gras. Tempting mains include a perfectly cooked roast turkey with all the trimmings, roast beef, and pan-fried sea bass. Desserts include sherry trifle and Christmas pudding. to book: Call +971 (0) 44323232 or restaurants@ jumeirah.com.

Where: Perry & Blackwelder’s, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai What’s unique: This is the festive season served with a slice of Southern hospitality Details: The all-American smokehouse will infuse holiday favourites with rich BBQ flavours. Mains range from deep-fried Louisiana turkey (which is injected with creole butter seasoning), to slow-roasted Maple Leaf Farm prime duckling, to boneless leg of lamb with mushrooms. Sides include cranberry relish, cornbread stuffing, candied yams, black-eyed peas and collard greens. to book: Call +971 (0) 44323232 or restaurants@ jumeirah.com

Where: Max on One, Jumeirah Frankfurt, Germany What’s unique: The venue offers a vegetarian menu Dec 24 to 25. Dishes range from parmesan cheese soup and sundried tomato to roasted potato perched atop potato foam.

Details: Festive food is created with all the refinement of Europe’s financial city. Dec 24 to 25, enjoy three to five courses.

Dishes include flamed wild prawns and celery salad, grilled duck liver and red cabbage juice, sea bass perched atop spinach foam, saddle and leg of venison, and more. to book: Call +49 (0) 69 297 237 198 or JFMaxonOne@jumeirah.com

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around the globe

Where: Festive Feast at Nomad, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, Dubai What’s unique: The Puccinidesigned restaurant creates an atmosphere that is one-of-a-kind, featuring an otudoor terrace and beautiful surrounding gardens.

Details: Create special memories with family and friends through this festive brunch at Nomad. The lavish buffet will offer a delectable array of food and treats to help build up the seasonal festive spirit. The littlest of guests will have their own specially themed food menu and a jolly visitor travelling all the way from the chilly North Pole.

To book: +971 (04) 2308571 or JCHnomadrestaurant@jumeirah. com

Where: Pearls by Michael Caines, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi What’s unique: Newly opened at the end of this year, enjoy a festive feast in this just-launched venue.

Details: Pearls by Michael Caines is led by famous chef Michael Caines. This European restaurant draws inspiration from the Emirate and the Arabian Gulf. It also offers floor-to-ceiling open glass walls, providing a stunning view of the surrounding sea. For those looking to celebrate the festive season, you can treat yourself to a three-course specially created lunch menu.

To book: +971 (02) 8115666 or JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com

Where: Latitude, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai What’s unique: The amazing view and easy access to the waterfront is not to be missed.

Details: Share the merriment of this year’s festivities over a sumptuous spread.

A live band helps create an energetic atmosphere perfect for spending time with family. As for the food?

Expect dishes like succulent roast turkey filled with sage and onion stuffing, rosemary-seasoned piper potatoes, Montgomery cauliflower cheese, and all the additional delicious trimmings that you could ever desire.

To book: +971 (04) 4323232 or email restaurants@jumeirah.com

Where: The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant, Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London What’s unique: This venue is perfect for intimate groups who want a quintessentially British meal.

Details: Dine in the elegant Rib Room Bar & Restaurant at Jumeirah Carlton Tower and enjoy a fabulously festive meal. Designed by Head Chef Ian Rudge, choose from Norfolk turkey with apricot and chestnut stuffing, banana and eggnog soufflé and a selection of other festive delights. Add a dusting of sparkle to your experience with bubbly and live music in the bar from Wednesday through to Friday.

To book: +44 (0)20 7858 7250 or reservations@theribroom.co.uk

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TRAVEL Frankfurt Festive holidays Museums to explore p. 64 London A day and night Luxury and food p. 72 Secret spaces Jumeirah Dhevanafushi Beautiful spa p. 78

Image: Getty

The high life Exquisite meat The Hide in Dubai p. 82

Fantastic FrankFurt

images: Getty

From arts and culture to festive markets, Frankfurt overflows with tempting activities in December

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Known as a financial centre, Frankfurt is often associ ated with the corporate world of commerce. Yet these monetary giants have brought with them something else: capital enough to create a city strong in culture.

As a result, Frankfurt today is a place brimming in arts, overflowing with museums, and saturated with the most exquisite history.

“Those who still associate Frankfurt stereotypically with the cliché of a banking metropolis will miss out on a city that attaches as much importance to cultural variety as on its business dynamics,” explains Professor Dr. Felix Semmelroth, Deputy Mayor in Charge of Cultural Affairs of the City of Frankfurt am Main. “Much has happened here in recent years. Numerous museums have been modernised and enlarged, and shine in new splendour.”

Whether you’re fascinated by history or literature, world culture or the stories of finance, Frankfurt has a museum or activity to suit every taste.

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Museum of Modern Art

Senckenberg Museum

St채del Museum

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SIx MUSEUMS tO SEE Historisches Museum Frankfurt

MMK Museum für Moderne Kunst

Frankfurt’s oldest museum, this extensive collection contains over a million objects from the Middle Ages to today. Until April 2016, an exhibit titled ‘Arsenic and New Medicine’ will be on display, examining the life and works of Nobel Prize winning researcher Paul Ehrlich. It’s also worth noting that this impressive museum, which features newly renovated historic buildings from five centuries, will be under some renovations over the next year. historisches-museum.frankfurt.de

Since the 1980s, Frankfurt’s contemporary art scene has developed extensively, with new venues launching around the Main embankment. today, over 1,000 visual artists live and work in Frankfurt, adding to the constantly developing modern art scene. the Museum of Modern Art is definitely one worth a visit.

Opened in 1991, it’s today considered one of the leading modern and contemporary art venues. A diverse collection featuring both established contemporary artists and younger, developing ones, creates for a dynamic and fascinating viewing. mmk-frankfurt.de

(Historical Museum)

Archäologisches Museum Frankfurt (Archaeological Museum)

One of the very few German museums that focuses solely on archaeology, this unique museum is housed in the restored Carmelite monastery. Collections range from the prehistory of the Frankfurt region, stretching all the way back into the Roman times. Particularly fascinating are artefacts from the Roman period, like eating utensils, weapons, and coins. Fairly small, this near-to-the-river venue can be viewed comfortably in a morning. archaeologisches-museum.frankfurt.de

Städel Museum If you have any interest in art, the Städel Museum is worth a visit. Nestled on the Main embankment, this famous museum has pieces by all the big names: van Eyck, Botticelli, Durer, Cranach, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Beckmann, Marc, Picasso, Klee, and more. It’s no surprise the venue has made a reputation for itself as being one of the world’s most illustrous art museums. Amidst these works by the old masters are more contemporary sculptures and popular temporary exhibits. Since 2012, Städel Museum has also housed a range of contemporary art in a specially constructed extension. staedelmuseum.de

(Museum of Modern Art)

Goethe-Haus Frankfurt (Goethe House)

It’s impossible to think of Germany’s literary scene and not think of the famous poet Goethe. In Frankfurt you will find Goethe’s parents’ house, which combines a picture gallery, manuscript archives, graphic collection, and library, to create a venue rich with history. Historic furniture and paintings span 16 rooms, looking at where young Goethe grew up. goethehaus-frankfurt.de

Senckenberg Naturmuseum (Natural History Museum)

While Frankfurt has a wealth of technology, nature, and culture focused museums, the Natural History Museum is a particular highlight. Hailed as one of Europe’s largest and most reputed natural science museums, this venue offers a dinosaur collection not to be missed. You will also find fossils of the Messel pit, marine animals, numerous species, and so much more, all allowing you the opportunity to walk through the history of the earth. senckenberg.de

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A FeSTIve FRAnkFuRT If you’re in Frankfurt to visit museums (or perhaps simply enjoying a long weekend around doing business) during the month of December, it’s worth taking a visit to the city’s famous festive market. Hailed as one of the largest in all of Germany, this market features numerous stands with local handicrafts, sweets, toys, gifts (like tree ornaments or apple wine soap), and food.

You can enjoy a rich bratwurst while sipping mulled wine amidst the sounds of families preparing for the holidays. As you walk along, you can taste traditional marzipan candies. Then pause before the massive decorated fir tree, an item that became significant only during the 19th century. All of this takes place within the charming setting of the Römerberg and St. Paul’s Square.

And if you want to get away? You can take a ride on a historical steam train, which departs from Main embankment, or a festive boat trip down the river.

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WHERE TO sTAy Positioned in the heart of the German city, the luxurious and modern Jumeirah Frankfurt makes for the perfect place to stay Location In a word, Jumeirah Frankfurt is central. Only a few steps from the popular ‘Zeil’ shopping street and the financial district, it’s easy to walk out of Jumeirah Frankfurt and be within the heart of the city. The museums are, for the most part, all within an easy 20-minute walking radius. The nearby airport can also be reached easily.

eater. For dessert, try the banana split. Containing all the ingredients you would expect, this innovative dish is served in a deconstructed fashion. Other restaurants include the Ember Bar and Lounge, designed in partnership with Veuve Clicquot; and El Rayyan, a popular externally managed Lebanese venue.

Shopping

With 217 spacious guest rooms and suites that feature amazing views across the city, it’s easy to sink into quiet comfort after a long day. Original artworks by German artist Hartwig Ebersbach adorn the walls. Wi-Fi is offered complimentary throughout.

It’s impossible to be closer to a shopping centre. Running alongside Jumeirah Frankfurt is MyZeil, a shopping mall with all the fashion stores, food courts, groceries, interiors, and everything else you could want. The famous Goethestrasse features designer shops and luxury brands, while the neighbouring ‘Zeil’ offers popular high-street stores.

Fitness

Don’t miss

To put things briefly, the fitness facilities accessible while staying at Jumeirah Frankfurt are amazing. An actual Fitness First Platinum extends in the neighbouring MyZeil shopping centre, free for use by hotel guests. With a full-length indoor lap pool, access to complimentary Fitness First classes, and an incredible array of machines, this 18+ gym is not to be missed.

In December, book the property’s seasonal Goose Menu. This features cold-smoked goose breast with figs and oranges, chestnut soup with aged balsamic and grilled goose liver, goose breast and leg with currants and potatoes, and ‘kaiserschmarrn’, a playful, creative take on the traditional sweet shredded pancake.

Rooms

Seasonal package Dining Max on One, the property’s signature restaurant, is impressive.

For dinner, try the sea bass, a dish at once succulent and meaty.

Presented alongside lemon butter sauce with capers, and perching atop a cashew sauce, the fish is richly infused with subtle depth. The lobster soup, served with melon and panna cotta, is delightfully warm on a cold day, while bread, presented alongside sour cream and herbs, tempts even the most avid low-carb

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Enjoy the festive season with a special Jumeirah Frankfurt offer.

This includes: an overnight stay in the respective room category; a daily buffet breakfast; a three-course menu at Max on One; mineral water, snacks, and Nespresso coffee in the guestroom; complimentary Wi-Fi and media library access.

To book Visit jumeirah.com/frankfurt, call +49 (0)692972370, email JFinfo@jumeirah.com

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A dAy And nigHt in London Images: Getty

Jumeirahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blogger and international traveller Claire Hill explores Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luxurious capital

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Park Lane London. The name exudes luxury, sophistication, style and opulence. A perfect fit for Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living (GHA) that is nestled on its corner with Mount Street. The hotel residences are set within a historic building dating back to the 1920s that has been renovated to incorporate contemporary style, while keeping the old-world charm intact. The property’s tagline is ‘a home away from home,’ and it offers a wonderful experience for short and extended stays. Think luxury hotel meets modern London Mayfair residence.

After a swift check-in, I was soon enjoying a fresh apple juice and a selection of delicate French macaroons in the spacious and immaculate apartment adjacent to London’s Hyde Park. It was only a quick visit, however one that had been blessed with sunshine so I took full advantage and meandered over the road for a stroll around the famous park. It’s a must when staying at this property. The abundance of oak trees, shrubs and wild life (many squirrels and birds) made a welcome change to Dubai.

It is easy to lose hours in this park. If you have the time, go in search of its famous landmarks including the Serpentine Lake, Speakers’ Corner and the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or try boating, cycling and tennis. Joggers are spoilt for choice with the winding paths, tree-lined avenues and picturesque waterways so if you’re a keen runner, be sure to pack your trainers. Sadly for me, time was short so I went for a quick recce of the area before heading back to the property.

London life Mayfair is steeped in sophistication. A spot of window-shopping at the local estate agents reveals property prices here are among the most expensive in London and indeed the world. Walk around and you’ll discover impressive Regency style architecture and spotless streets lined with luxury boutiques; it’s a fashionista’s paradise. But that’s not all. There are quaint bookstores, fine art galleries and elegant spas. In the evenings, there are plenty of swanky nightspots and restaurants offering world-class cuisine. This is a prime location to stay in the city for business or pleasure.

Inside GHA There are 130 rooms and suites to choose from and the guest-only access ensures security and discretion. All suites feature an open-plan kitchen and living area. The new collection of London Suites have beautiful views and comprise three- and four-bedroom options, named after local landmarks such as Serpentine, City, Westminster and Hyde Park.

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by Jumeirah Living

In room dining at GHA

The residence concierge and guest services teams are available around the clock to cater to every need (including any last minute requests, no matter how unusual – a helicopter to Royal Ascot? Or perhaps your child requires an impromptu visit from the tooth fairy? Nothing is too much trouble here, so consider it done). They can also arrange for a fully stocked kitchen with items from London’s finest suppliers. My fridge was filled with all the necessary basics such as milk, cheese, bread, snacks and a selection of beverages.

Any special requests can be made in advance.

In-house dining You can either dine in the Atrium or order to your room and the team can even cater for dinner parties in the comfort of your own suite. Head Chef at Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living, Shailesh Deshmukh, explains: “We like our guests to feel that this is their home away from home and I enjoy creating personalised dishes to help with this. Once a guest called me at 1am requesting ostrich for lunch the following day and another once asked for Alaskan king crab, which we cooked three different ways. On both of these occasions, the guest response was amazing - I guess this goes back to what I love about my job. It may sometimes prove challenging, but it is definitely worth it when the guest is happy.”

Dining out

There is so much choice and no need to venture far. You’ll find all types of cuisine, from Asian to British and everything in between. Indian fare is a jewel in Mayfair’s culinary crown - transport your taste buds from west London to the delights of Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur with a visit to the nearby Indian restaurants on The Mayfair spice trail.

For fine Indian cuisine with a modern British twist try the Michelinstarred Benares which offers an admirable menu of dishes from all over India. For contemporary cuisine using seasoned British ingredients, dine at Gymkhana. With a strong focus on the tandoori oven, this was named National Restaurant of the Year 2014. Handsome interiors reflect India at the time of the British Raj - note the authentic wall lamps from Jaipur and hunting trophies from Maharajah. Inspired by traditional Moghul cuisine, Tamarind was the first Indian restaurant in the world to receive a Michelin star. The authentic tandoor oven style of northwest India creates dishes that are bursting with aromatic flavours. Alternatively, experience the legendary Chor Bizzare, set within the recreation of an authentic bazaar. Chefs are in on the secrets of the Wazwan, a legendary feast of 36 delicious courses.

By Claire Hill, PR Manager and Copywriter, Jumeirah Group. On a weekly basis, new stories about Hill’s travels from across the luxurious world of Jumeirah will be posted on the Jumeirah blog. Every month, her highlights will appear here.

For more information, visit experiencejumeirah.com

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Haveever youwanted ever wanted to be inside AlJumeirah?

Arab Jumeirah?

Nowcan. you can.

Have you to be inside Burj AlBurj Arab Now you Start exploring at jumeirahinside.com Start exploring at jumeirahinside.com

Secret SpaceS

Unwind in the beautiful venue recently named ‘Luxury Island Spa of the Year – Maldives’ by the Luxury travel Guide Suspended on stilts over the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi’s Talise Spa serves as the perfect spot for blissful relaxation.

Treatment rooms come with glass floored panels, meaning you can unwind while watching colourful fish swim underneath. Treatments span those tailored for the individual to ones created for couples. Particularly nice is the ‘Dhevanafushi Romance for Couples’ package, which uses essential oils to encourage love. For a particularly indulgent day, the ‘Talise For Her’ fivehour treatment is indulgently tempting.

Alongside the spa, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi places a high priority on offering a holistic approach to wellbeing, rejuvenation, and relaxation. To this end, the luxury hotel offers daily complimentary wellness or yoga classes and personal trainers on request.

The spa’s recent award of ‘Luxury Island Spa of the Year – Maldives’ is only one of many it has claimed.

Previous accolades include being awarded the titles of the ‘Maldives’ Best Hotel Spa’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Best Hotel Spa’ at the World Spa Awards 2015, and ‘Best Luxury Emerging Spa (Indian Ocean)’ at the 2013 World Spa Awards.

For more information on Talise Spa, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, visit jumeirah. com, email JDMreservations@jumeirah.com, or call +9606828800

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>>lifestyle<<

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>>Your guide to living the jet-set lifestYle with jumeirah<<

The high life:

The Hide, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

In brief: There is something inherently cool about The Hide. Dark inte-

‘deli counter pate’ with duck pastrami, chicken liver, and black fig jam;

riors, glass-and-brass light fixtures, and wood accents lend it a feel

and the forgotten cuts of slowly-cooked-in-its-own-fat meat for, the

of upmarket steampunk. The trendy, shirt-sleeves-rolled-up, mostly

menu notes, ‘those who know’.

American staff add to this feel. The venue claims to bring over elements of New York and Chicago to Dubai – and it most definitely succeeds.

The extras: Bread, made in-house, is served warm to the table upon

The drinks: The Hide is the only restaurant in Dubai that offers 54 grape

‘Texas Caviar’), provided complimentary, likewise tempts.

arrival. A flavourful dish of roasted crunchy black-eyed peas (named beverages by the glass, the largest selection in the city. Most are chosen to accent the rich flavours of meat, meaning you can expect smoky

The dessert: ‘Urban America’ is the name of the game with The Hide,

reds and nuanced whites.

and its dessert doesn’t disappoint. The apple pie, an entire not-so-little pie with flaky golden crust and thick-cut apples, topped by two slowly

The food: The Hide does meat, and it does it well – or rare, or aged 21

melting scoops of vanilla ice cream, is a particular showstopper. Mini

days, or served entirely raw with a fresh egg perched on top. Every-

pumpkin pies and deconstructed s’mores also tempt.

thing is served with excellent skill and a touch of humour. There’s the ‘Manwich’, a sizeable sandwich made of smoked beef brisket, beef, two

What’s new: Visit The Hide for its newly launched and meaty brunch.

fried eggs, cider-dressed mustard leaves, dill pickles, and vintage red

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cheddar that makes every bite a succulent challenge of calorific glory;

The location: Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. Dress

the ‘nice to meat you’ appetisers, featuring things like a DIY steak tartar

code smart casual. Open 12pm to 11:30pm daily, +97144323232. Email

with rose veal flavoured by a Bloody Mary tonic and an impossibly rich

restaurants@jumeirah.com, jumeirah.com/thehide