What's On | January 2012

Issue 405

January 2012

PLURTSA!DVICE,

Sort out your finances

E THE EXPD IDEAS FOR TIPS AN TTER YOU A BE IN 2012

Improve your diet

The best workouts in Dubai Holidays that will change you forever

The trends you need now

Change your career path

PRIZES WORTH Dhs25,0 00 INSID E!

Discover what you really want from life De-clutter your closet

ALSO INSIDE: THE FUTURE OF DUBAI ART, LEARN TO OFF-ROAD, HOW TO SPOT A PSYCHOPATH, TEN NEW GADGETS FOR 2012, ENGLAND VS PAKISTAN, PETE TONG, AND DIVING WITH SHARKS

UAE DHS 10 OMAN RO 1.000

CONTENTS

January 2012

You: v2.0 12

NOW, WE’RE NOT SAYING THAT YOUR CURRENT SET-UP IS BAD, IT’S JUST THAT, WELL, EVERYONE COULD USE A LITTLE SELFIMPROVEMENT. OR MAYBE EVEN A LOT. BE IT FEELING FITTER, EARNING A FEW MORE DIRHAMS AND EATING SENSIBLY, OR JUST THROWING CAUTION TO THE WIND AND CHANGING EVERYTHING – MAKE 2012 THE YEAR FOR YOU. AND TO MAKE IT EVEN EASIER, WE’RE GIVING AWAY EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS YOUR BEST YEAR YET How to win!

Improve your diet

Get in shape

On the following pages you’ll find ideas and advice to transform your life. Even better, we’re giving away the goodies and experts you need, from personal training to a new wardrobe; everything will go to one very lucky reader. For your chance to win the lot, e-mail winwithmotivate.ae with ‘life’ in the subject line, plus your contact details and your argument for why you deserve to win a whole new you, in 50 words or less

Find out Manage Sort out Shake up Life what you your money your style your career changing really want holidays from life

FEATURES 12 You: v2.0

We put together everything you need to build a richer, fitter, healthier you in 2012.

Plus the chance to win every element required for a whole new you

20 What's the future of Dubai art?

Five bright, young creative things discuss the continued rise of the Dubai art scene and the challenges faced by artists in the future

24 We don’t like cricket. We love it

As world number ones England prepare to take on Pakistan in the UAE, we highlight the players to look out for and provide a novice’s guide to the game

24

20 JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 3

CONTENTS

THE ROUND-UP 8 Salaam

Happy New Year! Starting 2012 with a bang

26 Film

Mr and Mrs Daniel Craig star in psychological horror Dream House, Jason Segel plays with The Muppets and Woody Harrelson portrays a dirty cop in Rampart.

Plus Our Idiot Brother, Don 2: The Chase Continues, New Year’s Eve and War Horse

29 Eating out

Two new Abu Dhabi restaurants, an introduction to Italian wine, cook a classic spaghetti vongole and Gary Rhodes makes a risotto

39 Arts

UAE designer Khalid Shafa on his new show at Pavilion Downtown Dubai, the Sharq Orchestra’s new year concert at Ductac, The Art Insider looks at the year ahead and five exhibitions you simply must see this month

45 Shopping

All the gadgets you need for a high tech 2012, plus enough news to sate the most serious shopper

51 Mind & body

Wriggly Scott, plus the most informed guide to clubbing in the UAE and all the news from the music scene

73 Travel

The highlights of Northern Cyprus, Film-maker, writer and author of The culinary tales from the Gourmet Psychopath Test Jon Ronson tells us how Traveller, plus travel advice, deals and to spot a psychopath, plus well-being news apps in Travel Extra

57 Sport & outdoor

Our fearless staffer pats Jaws on the head, we go off-road to learn how to drive in the desert, and Mike Tyson comes to town

63 Music & nightlife

Our artist of the month this month is DJ, producer, promoter and music-maker

81 The hot list

Restaurants, bars, brunches and spas so hot they’ll burn your fingers

98 Backchat with… Catboy

Dubai’s king of the airwaves looks forward to the end of days

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4 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

Editor's note EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer GROUP EDITOR & MANAGING PARTNER lan Fairservice GROUP SENIOR EDITOR Gina Johnson | gina@motivate.ae

SENIOR EDITOR Mark Evans marke@motivate.ae DEPUTY EDITOR Helen Spearman helen@motivate.ae FEATURES & FOOD EDITOR Gareth Rees gareth@motivate.ae FEATURES EDITOR, ABU DHABI Adam Workman adam@motivate.ae FEATURES WRITER Matt Priest matthew@motivate.ae CHIEF SUB EDITOR Iain Smith iains@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Freddie Colinares freddie@motivate.ae SENIOR DESIGNER Olga Petroff olga@motivate.ae EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kamini Ghose kamini@motivate.ae PICTURE RESEARCHER – GULFPICS Wayne Fernandez wayne@motivate.ae CONTRIBUTORS Naveed Ahmed, Victor Besa, James Brennan, Stef Burgon, Annah Cuthbert, Vikram Gawde, Catherine Jarvie, Tom Jordan, Charles Pocock, Mark Powell, Conor Purcell, Gary Rhodes, Farooq Salik, Simon Smedley, Paul Sterry SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Sunil Kumar sunil@motivate.ae PRODUCTION MANAGER Sudhakar Chandran sudhakar@motivate.ae PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Murali Krishnan muralik@motivate.ae GENERAL MANAGER – GROUP SALES Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae ADVERTISEMENT MANAGERS Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae Violeta Botorogeanu | violeta@motivate.ae GENERAL MANAGER, ABU DHABI Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER, ABU DHABI Sumon M Hoque | sumon@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE, ABU DHABI Hamdan Bawazir | hamdan@motivate.ae Annual Subscription GCC Dhs120 other countries US$70 (including Airmail charges)

Wow, did you see that? That was 2011. Look at it go!

It’s hard to believe it’s 2012 already (although that big party at the end of December did kind of give it away a wee bit); time definitely does fly here in the Emirates.

The new year, inevitably, brings with it a time for reflection – what am I doing with my life, where did that gut come from, how come my bank account is empty yet my wardrobe’s full of T-shirts – and now is the time to sort it out. You could wait till, say, next October, but you’ll be right up against it, time wise, plus your bank manager will install a sign that says ‘stop asking for credit or I’ll punch you in the face’. No, the time is now, Dubai – let’s do it. As always, we’re here to lead the way – this issue of What’s On will not only help you sort out your finances, but we’ll also show you how to get in shape and declutter your closet. And what’s more, one lucky reader will win the lot – from adventure holidays to organic food – making that transition from rubbish 2011 you to the all singing, dancing and training like a ninja 2012 you much easier. How do you like them apples (and new clothes, personal trainer and life coach)?

More you say? 2012 you is a pushy little so-and-so, eh? OK, how about the inside scoop on Dubai’s rising art scene, the lowdown on this month’s big cricket test series, and how to spot your very own psycho (courtesy of investigative journalist and author, Jon Ronson)? Throw in another jam-packed eating out section, music, clubs, travel and our top ten of everything, and that should get 2012 off to a flyer.

Enjoy the issue, and happy New Year.

Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436, 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

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 7

We're officially part of the Twitterati.

Follow us @WhatsOnDubai for exclusive updates on nightlife, restaurants and more around the UAE. Tweet yourself

Salaam!

Welcome to 2012

What’s hot ONLINE PARKING

The RTA has developed a smart phone application, mPark, which allows you to fill up your parking metre via the app. The only hitch is that, for the time being, it is only available on Windows phone.

Guess list

Who is planning a visit to the UAE in 2012?

30%

LOWCOST HEALTH TESTS The Dubai Health Authority has launched a low-cost combined healthcare plan in an attempt to help assist diabetics, smokers and women with health issues. The bundle of tests will cost 25 per cent less than doing them individually.

YOU'VE GOT MAIL Hold on to your hats, we might soon be able to have our mail delivered to our homes – that’s if Emirates Post’s new scheme has anything to do with it. Villa residents can have a personal mailbox installed, while flat-dwellers will be given their own PO box.

What’s not

ANY OLD AWARD Despite the success of last month’s DIFF, we were a little bit baffled by Owen Wilson being awarded the International Star Of The Year, after a pretty uneventful year in his career. Cars 2, anyone?

ILLEGAL TV Anti-piracy experts have flagged up concerns over the growing number of people illegally watching pay TV. While cable network OSN pulls in around 3 million subscribers, they estimate a staggering 22 million people across the region are watching for free, the cheeky blighters.

ENDANGERED KING The collared kingfisher, unique to the UAE and Oman, is teetering on extinction as continual development has destroyed much of its mangrove habitat.

8 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

40% KANYE WEST Taylor Swift haters rejoice – Kanye’s on his way.

One Dubai-based promoter is ‘very close’ to securing a deal with the rapper, who’s prone to the odd onstage rant or two, usually in support of his own work. If the deal comes off, expect him within the next couple of months.

THIS MONTH WE'RE GOING TO...

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS Big news. Such big news, that we had meet at midnight, in a car park, with a shadowy figure wearing a Mac who would only whisper several words, four of which were ‘Red’, ‘Hot’, ‘Chili’, and ‘Peppers’. (We can’t print the others, but it serves us right for meeting strange men in car parks at midnight).

Our other, less shadowy sources tell us that the gig will happen after summer on a beach near you.

30%

MYLO Scottish DJ Mylo is busy stuffing his favourite records into a suitcase for an upcoming visit to the Emirates next month.

The electronic funster – Myles MacInnes to his postman – is set to support ‘a well-known rock band’, according to our sources.

BIG VOICE Like Arab soprano singers? Who doesn’t. One of the best, Zeina Barhoum, is in town with her anticipated Passions Of East And West show.

Jan 18, Ductac, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, from Dhs150, 8pm. Tel: (04) 3424777. ductac.org

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE James De Valera, aka DJ Lobito

REPAIR YOUR DECKS I use Vestax turntables and the supplier here, NMK Electronic, has a repair service, which was an unexpected surprise to discover. Head there for all your turntable needs.

NMK electronics, Al Khubaisi, Deira. Tel: (04) 2665244. nmkelectronics.com

EATING OUT I like a variety of different cuisines – although I can’t stand fast food – but I’m very partial to Asian flavours. If I were trying to impress someone, I would take them to Nobu. If I get an insatiable sushi hunger, I go for all-you-can-eat sushi at Scoozi in JBR. Nobu, Atlantis Hotel, The Palm, Mon to Thurs 7pm to 11.30pm, Fri and Sat 7pm to 12.30am.

Tel: (04) 4262626. atlantisthepalm. com Scoozi, The Walk, JBR, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4393752

SECRET SPOT I have a few secret spots but one favourite (that I’m prepared to reveal) is the RAW coffee, at Dubai Garden Centre – it’s the best coffee in the city, no question. The café at the Pavilion Downtown is really nice, too.

RAW Coffee Company, Dubai Garden Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road. Tel: (050) 5536808. rawcoffeecompany.com The Pavilion, Emaar Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 4477025. pavilion.ae

NIGHT OUT There are some great musicians in Dubai, such as Hamdan AlAbri, Gayathri and Noush Like Sploosh, so I try and catch them when they are performing. Of course, my own night, Deep Crates, is on every Thursday night at Casa Latina – it’s free entry and the music’s cool, although I would say that, wouldn’t I… Thur, Deep Crates, Casa Latina, Ibis Hotel, Barsha, 9pm to 2am free.

Tel: (04) 3996699. facebook.com/ groups/deepcrates

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL

BAKE NEW FRIENDS

With deals pouring out of pretty much every shop in the city, it’s time to spend. The more we spend, the more we save (that logic works in our heads. Kind of…).

From Jan 5. dubaishoppingfestival.com

Bakery Hey Sugar is inviting you to their social baking party, where you get to bake and make new friends. Sounds sweet.

Sugar Bakeshop, various locations. Tel: (04) 3978427. facebook.com/HeySugarBakeshopME

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

Dubai 92’s Geordiebird gives us the heads up from the Dubai bar scene

THIS MONTH: CIRQUE DU SOIR What does it look like?

Formerly 400 Club, the space has been transformed into an indoor, underground circus, with heavy drapes, animal prints, lots of gold, and massive vintage photos everywhere.

Who goes there?

This isn’t the place for shy, retiring types.

Everyone is up for a party. You’ll also find dwarves, stilt walkers, acrobats and magicians in attendance (they work there, it’s not like some circus workers’ hangout).

Any drink recommendations?

There are some great cocktails, but given how packed this club gets you might be best to book a table and do bottles and mixers.

When should you go?

Cirque Du Soir is only open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, but you can expect a crazy night whenever you go.

How’s the service?

No complaints, and the staff overall are fantastic, with performers mingling with the crowd, fireworks here, a contortionist there – you don’t know where to look next.

What’s the taxi situation?

Loads of taxis, and plenty of chat in the short queue.

Geordiebird verdict: What a night. Unlike any other club in Dubai, a night here is a truly bizarre experience. I loved every second.

Fairmont, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Tues, Thur and Fri 10pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3324900. cirquedusoir.com

Find us at

www.facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 9

SALAAM

IN THE NEWS

The next Step Former Steps singer Lisa Scott-Lee joins forces with our buddies Tom and Dan to present their Dubai 92 drive-time show You've been living here in Dubai for around a year, how have you found it?

My family and I love life in Dubai – we've found everyone so welcoming – and it's a great place to raise a young family.

What does Dubai offer you that you can't get back home?

Fantastic weather – so there's a great outdoor lifestyle. Plus people are refreshingly positive and lovely.

What can people expect from the show's new line-up?

I'm really excited about becoming part of the show's new line-up. I

think I will mix things up a little and keep the boys on their toes, which should make for fun listening.

Have you done any radio DJing before?

I've presented a few TV and radio shows in the UK, but I'm looking forward to joining forces with the boys and Dubai 92 – it's a great station.

How do you intend to break up the Tom & Dan bromance?

Charm!

Can you teach them a thing or two about music?

I'm sure I could teach them a few dance moves.

How many times are you allowed to play Steps records per show?

5,6,7,8 times!

7 Snow Patrol

Soft-rockers Snow Patrol are set to make their UAE debut this year, flying into town to play at hugely popular Sandance event on March 9. Performing alongside Calvin Harris and Erick Morrillo at the Nasimi beach-based event, the appearance by the Northern-Irish five-piece – arguably one of the giants of stadium anthemic rock – is already looking like the gig of the year. Which leads to the question – how will the Sandance crew top that for their next event?

Mar 9, Sandance, Nasimi beach, Atlantis Hotel, The Palm, Dubai, Dhs250, 2pm to 2am. sandance.ae 10 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

A WILD DECADE

As the Emirates Wildlife Society turns ten years old, we highlight some of their best conservation work over the past decade

Blue Flag beaches

The Blue Flag signifies the leading standard for beaches around the world. The EWS oversaw the first Blue Flags being awarded in the UAE, including the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, which meets environmental standards in 32 different criteria.

Wadi Wurayah

In just five years, more than 55 new species have been identified at Wadi Wurayah.

The EWS has worked tirelessly to protect the 500 different species that live there from issues including hunting, littering and building.

Choose Wisely

The EWS-WWF compiled an over-fished list, and created the Choose Wisely campaign to encourage people to think before ordering fish in restaurants or buy in supermarkets across the UAE. ewswwf.ae

The number of marathons completed by Dubai resident, Rosa Areosa The number of days in took her to walk the 26.2 miles The number of Emirates she completed a marathon in

POPULATION

2,000,000 The official number of people now residing in Dubai

You:

NOW, NOW,WE’RE WE’RENOT NOTSAYING SAYINGTHAT THATYO YOU IT’S IT’SJUST JUSTTHAT, THAT,WELL, WELL,EVERYONE EVERYONE IMPROVEMENT. IMPROVEMENT.OR ORMAYBE MAYBEEVEN EVENAA EARNING EARNINGAAFEW FEWMORE MOREDIRHAMS DIRHAMS THROWING THROWINGCAUTION CAUTIONTO TOTHE THEWIND WIND MAKE MAKE2012 2012THE THEYEAR YEARFOR FORYOU. YOU.AAN EVEN EVENEASIER, EASIER,WE’RE WE’REGIVING GIVINGAWAY AWAY YOU YOUNEED NEEDTO TOMAKE MAKETHIS THISYOUR YOURBB

Improve your diet

Get in shape

Find out Manage Sort out Shake up Life what you your money your style your career changing really want holidays from life

: v2.0

OUR URCURRENT CURRENTSET-UP SET-UPISISBAD, BAD, COULD COULDUSE USEAALITTLE LITTLESELFSELFLOT. LOT.BE BEITITFEELING FEELINGFITTER, FITTER, AND ANDEATING EATINGSENSIBLY, SENSIBLY,OR ORJUST JUST D AND ANDCHANGING CHANGINGEVERYTHING EVERYTHING– – AND NDTO TOMAKE MAKEITIT EVERYTHING EVERYTHING BEST ESTYEAR YEARYET YET How to win!

On the following pages you’ll find ideas and advice to transform your life. Even better, we’re giving away the goodies and experts you need, from personal training to a new wardrobe; everything will go to one very lucky reader. For your chance to win the lot, e-mail winwithmotivate.ae with ‘life’ in the subject line, plus your contact details and your argument for why you deserve to win a whole new you, in 50 words or less

Improve your diet WIN!

We have a month’s supply of Ripe farmers’ market produce to be won – that’s a box full of fresh, seasonal produce every week

You are what you eat, and in 2012 you should aim to eat fresh, clean, local produce. The cooler months are fantastic for crops, with dedicated UAE farmers growing top quality fruit and veg. Dubai’s weekly Ripe farmers’ market sells boxes of fresh produce every Saturday, with small (Dhs80) and large (Dhs130) containers

full of tomatoes, onions, apples, strawberries and more. Also at the market you’ll find stalls offering gluten-free baked goods, artisan breads and regional cheeses. Or you can order online for home delivery or pick up.

Ripe, Dubai Garden Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Sat 9.30am to 1pm. ripeme.com

RIPE FARMERS’ MARKET RECIPE: Honey nut ricotta with strawberries * 200g ricotta * 2tbsp clear honey, to taste * Handful of toasted almonds * 400g strawberries, halved Tip the ricotta onto a large serving plate and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle the almonds over the top, then scatter the strawberries around the plate.

Get in shape

Healthy body, healthy mind. In true new year style, January is the time to don your box-fresh trainers and get active

THE TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: THE CIRCUIT FACTORY

The Circuit Factory’s (TCF) Phil and Hanna don’t take any nonsense. Sign up for a month-long challenge and you’ll be expected to attend four sessions a week, do extra exercises on work out days, keep your diet as clean as possible (stock up on turkey, leafy greens and almonds), submit a weekly food diary for them to scrutinise and keep them informed of your progress. And that includes a personal best on the regular runs or, more likely, admitting to that late night feast at KFC. It’s not easy, the gym isn’t glam and you’ll learn to hate ‘the beasting line’ (a line where recruits stand awaiting their fate, be it lunges, burpees or wall squats – usually at the end of a work out), but the loyal group of TCF devotees have had some truly amazing results. You’ll receive all the support you need and the ‘all in this together’ spirit of the fellow challengers will keep you going. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself signing up for a second month, constantly watching Phil’s instructional YouTube videos and chatting with other recruits on the TCH Facebook page – this stuff is addictive.

The Circuit Factory, Al Quoz, Dubai, Dhs300 per week. circuitfactory.ae

14 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

THE WHOLE BODY TECHNIQUE: OPTIMAL FITNESS

While you might be full of good intentions to jump-start your body into fitness, any regime should be approached with caution, as the guys at Optimal Fitness (OF) would agree. It can actually be detrimental to your physique to run when you have alignment problems or to try to lose weight with cardio when you’re injured, which is why the team will take up to two hours to assess your body, find weaknesses, test for hormonal imbalances, identify digestive problems and more, so a full programme can be drawn up. OF’s Keith Littlewood says he has recommended some clients not to exercise for a few months to let their bodies heal before springing into action. In addition to the food and pain relief advice, the gym also offers a range of classes, from spinning to body balance.

Optimal Fitness, Studio City, Dubai, consultations from Dhs500, classes from Dhs50. Tel: (04) 4572048. optimalfitness.ae

WIN!

We have a month of personal training sessions and a body composition test with Sharon James of Element Fitness to give away

THE PERSONAL APPROACH: ELEMENT FITNESS

Let’s face it – training is a mission. As much as we all go into it with great intentions, actually sticking with it session after session takes willpower and self-discipline. The kind of willpower and self-discipline that we here at What’s On just don’t have. The answer for us – and possibly for you, too – is to hire an expert; someone who will make you get up for those 7am runs and commit to the three-timesa-week gym visits. Enter Sharon James – fitness expert and lethal BBM’er. Just when you think, ‘ah, I’ll give it a miss in the morning’, cue the beep-beep ‘outside yours. 7am. See you there’ message. She’s also adept at personal training and will work on any of your problem areas or help you achieve your goals, from competing in a marathon to being able to successfully do 20 chin-ups or just losing a few pounds from around your stomach. So, after an initial fitness test, you can develop your goals and see the results you want. Just make sure you answer those texts – the extra press-ups hurt.

Element Fitness, Dhs2,000 for eight sessions. Tel: (050) 2771317. elementfitness.net

WIN!

Need some direction? We have a 90-minute life coaching session with Shana Kad up for grabs

Find out what you really want from life Think that new car is going to make your world complete? Won’t be content until you’ve lost that pesky 5kg and had your teeth whitened? Can’t work out why you always date someone who’s bad for you? It’s all too easy to go through life with the blinkers on, blind to what you truly want and need – making yourself happy on a superficial level – without really addressing what’s going on in that complicated, clever brain of yours. And in such a fast-paced city as Dubai, it can be especially beneficial to take stock and listen to that inner voice that tells you that you’re not really very happy at all.

While friends and family can offer invaluable insights, they may not have the time or inclination to help you figure out what you want from life and how to make it happen, which is where the professionals come in. Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) has long been used in business to help sales people speak to customers in a way that makes them put their hand in their pocket, but on a personal level, the simple language used by NLP practitioners can be incredibly useful for tapping into your subconscious. But why? Well, your subconscious has been working hard since you were born, filing away events and every tiny detail to form your belief system and help you make sense of the world, creating your own perspective. All well and good, but what if your beliefs aren’t doing you any good at all? What if you associate exercise with pain, relationships with inevitable heartache and assume you’re never going to earn some serious dirhams? Then you need to adjust your belief systems and retrain your brain to interpret your life in a positive way – it’s actually easier than you’d think.

Shana Kad, of Life Effective Coaching, worked for IBM before training as an NLP master. Her life coaching sessions aim to shatter those negative associations, delete unprocessed emotions that are holding you back and help you focus on what you want to get out of life by creating goals. In the short term, many of her clients experience clarity of thought and self-confidence, with the beliefs that had held them back (that annoying voice that tells you you’re not good enough for the promotion or insists that you’re just too busy to go to the gym in the morning, for instance) adjusted. While a short 90-minute session of NLP can be useful to achieve a sense of purpose and enable clients to feel their dreams aren’t out of reach, some people prefer to undergo a more lengthy and thorough process called Personal Breakthrough, which involves four three-hour sessions designed to address your specific issues and unlock your potential. By the end of the course you should feel as though you can succeed without any more life coaching – the idea is to help you realise you have all the tools you need to do whatever you want. Empowering stuff.

Life Effective Coaching, Dhs500 for 90 minutes, Dhs10,000 for Personal Breakthrough. Tel: (050) 6744793. lifeeffectivecoaching.ae

Manage your money Chances are, a cash injection would make 2012 a happy year, but short of a distant, wealthy relative popping their clogs and leaving you millions, you’ll have to make it happen yourself.

Taking control of your finances might seem like a scary, grown-up task, so we’ve made it simple with financial expert Dan Plant’s top five tips

1

START SAVING FOR YOUR PENSION AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE A good rule of thumb for a comfortable retirement is to pay in a percentage of your salary equal to half of your age; if you are 25, pay in 12.5 per cent of your income.

while cigarettes are relatively cheap in the UAE, quitting smoking will save you cash in the short term and can help save on health insurance in the future.

3

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Plan everything in advance – food shopping, how much you will spend on a night out – and don’t take any more than this with you.

5

SCARE YOURSELF

Enjoy a morning espresso? Can’t live Never pay more for without a weekly something than you manicure? Visit absolutely have to. demotivator.co.uk, You can often get enter the cost of exactly the same your little luxuries, service or products and how often you by paying less – so buy them, and the why wouldn’t you, annual cost will be just for the sake of a calculated. When TAKE SMALL bit of research? you see that you MEASURES spend two weeks EVERY DAY a year working to Little changes can afford a daily coffee, add up. Write a it will shock you into shopping list and action. That amount PLAN, don’t go to the could mean an extra PLAN, PLAN supermarket when annual holiday, a you’re hungry, when Leave your credit chunk of cash in your cards at home. you drive try to savings account – or accelerate and brake If you can’t trust an espresso machine. smoothly – this can yourself, only take Dan Plant is web editor cut fuel costs by up cash out with you so of moneysavingexpert. you can’t overspend. com to 20 per cent. And

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JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 15

WIN!

Sort out your style

Once you’ve binned the less desirable pieces that were cluttering up your closet, it’s time to hit the shops. Bloomingdale’s Eda Kuloglu, general manager of merchandising, tells us what ladies should be buying in 2012, while menswear buyer Fedaa Ghanem creates a shopping list for the chaps

Shake up your career

Changing your job is one of the most dramatic ways to change your life, but in an economic climate where the classified pages aren’t exactly bursting at the seams, you need to get creative. In Dubai, if you don’t network, you won’t work. Press palms or perish.

Here’s our pick of the places to meet your future boss, a key contact or a potential mentor

PINK SLIP DUBAI These popular evenings bring together job seekers, recruitment consultants and employers, all in an in-formal setting like a wine bar or restaurant, rather than a stuffy conference hall or intimidating ballroom, with guest speakers offering insights on the current scene.

Dhs100. pinkslipdubai.com 16 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

For him…

INVEST IN A WARDROBE FOR 2012

For her…

Is your wardrobe full of clothes, but you never seem to have anything to wear? Before you hit the shopping festival sales, it’s crucial to rid yourself of the offending items. Don’t torch the lot, though, as an expert can help you transform dull pieces into something you’d want to be seen in, or tell you the tough truth about your favourite dress that looks awful in photos.

Stylist Kelly Lundberg offers a ‘wardrobe weeding’ service where she will teach you how to mix and match existing items, bin the irredeemable and advise on what should be on the shopping list. There’s no excuse for that rah-rah skirt though, we’re telling you that now.

Divine Personal Styling, Dhs450 per hour. Tel: (050) 3962296. divine.ae 1950s GLAM Look for pencil skirts and dresses cut to flatter hourglass figures.

Try Lanvin, Donna Karan and Matthew Williamson.

NEON Last year’s colour blocking trend goes neon in 2012.

Pieces from McQ, DVF and 3.1 Philip Lim and footwear from Casadei, MMJ and Tory Burch will inject some energy into your look.

RELAXED TAILORING Deconstructed pieces from Corneliani, Trame, Tween and Theory will update your working wardrobe.

WIN!

winner a three-hour de-cluttering session

FLORAL PRINTS A real musthave for SS/12, floral fabrics from Alice & Olivia, Nicholas Kirkwood, Elie Tahari & MM Couture and Blue Girl will add some whimsy to your wardrobe.

VINTAGE DENIM We’ve seen a recent rise in vintage denim and retro influences, with many designers inspired by chambray and denim-like fabrics.

Try Burkman Brothers, Rag & Bone, Vince and Gitman Brothers.

START PERFORMING  NOW What’s your party trick? Are you a corker at karaoke? A dab hand at magic? Always wanted to take your talent to the next (moneymaking) level? Well, take down that sad looking poster you put up on the supermarket pin-board and sign up to a new website that acts as a database for UAE acts looking to be hired for events.

It’s that easy. Talentcode-me. com currently manages everyone from celeb look-a-likes and jazz singers to football jugglers and human statues. talentcode-me.com

One lucky reader will win Dhs2,000 to spend in Bloomingdale’s and Dhs500 for b.shine, Bloomingdale’s salon and spa that offers services from cuts, blow dries, colouring and styling for women, to shaving, Need Kelly’s help? massages and mani-pedi We’re offering one treatments for men

COBALT BLUE The shade of the season, it’s fresh with white for the day and sultry with black for the night. Check out Gryphon, Nancy Gonzalez, Issa and Marni for stunning hues.

ETHNIC PRINTS Heavy prints on light fabrics are a fantastic contrast and perfect for spring. Marc Jacobs and Shades of Grey are the ones to watch.

The new Mission Visa (sounds impressive, doesn’t it?) allows expats to work in the UAE for up to 90 days, which is useful to workers on probation. It costs Dhs100 to apply and Dhs500 for approval, plus a refundable Dhs3,000 fee. mol.gov.ae

LONG CHAIN BAGS The accessory du jour; ditch the clutch and join the chain gang. McQ, CC Skye, Cashimi and Coccinelle are all doing bags with bags of style.

NEUTRALS Beiges and pastels from shirts to shoes look modern and clean (as long as you don’t spill anything down yourself). Shop at Corneliani for clothing and Rag & Bone or Clae for footwear.

COLOURED PYTHON Pricey but worth it, Alexandre Birman and Giuseppe Zanotti are the go-to labels for spring’s most luxurious texture.

COOL BLUES Get the blues this season. From a suit to your wallet, this is the colour to make sure you’re ahead of the fashpack.

talking on a range of topics. To join you must be recommended by an existing member. ibwgdubai.com

GOOSEBERRY While technically a social networking agency, Gooseberry attracts young professionals that may be useful contacts. It’s INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS also a great idea if you’re new to WOMEN’S GROUP IBWG Dubai, with members meeting IBWG comes together for dinner or drinks. It’s not a for breakfast, luncheons dating site, and the organisers take and workshops to nurture no responsibility for networking businesswomen in the UAE, outside of events, but the calibre allowing them to meet likeof attendees makes Gooseberry minded professionals and discuss a welcoming middle ground THE NEW WORKING VISA opportunities in the region. The between business and pleasure.

Afraid of leaving your job because monthly events feature 45-minute Dhs1,000 for membership. you’ll be left without a visa? networking slots, plus experts gooseberrydubai.com

Life-changing holidays

Step away from the day-to-day grind to learn a sport, lose some weight and change the way you see your life

WIN!

We have a spot on a trip to Discover Borderland Sri Lanka in April for one lucky winner

THE MUAY THAI BOXING CAMP

Go back to basics, while getting the body you’ve always wanted, with this month-long training academy in Phuket, Thailand. It won’t be easy, but who said becoming a Muay Thai boxer would be? With three training sessions each day, stunning beaches nearby, yoga available and healthy food on the menu, it’s the perfect antidote to hectic city life.

Dhs2,384 for accommodation (shared bungalow with air-con) and training. rawaimuaythai.com

THE ULTIMATE DETOX BREAK THE ADVENTURE BREAK IN SRI LANKA Five days of river rafting, swimming, mountain biking, running and using the lush Sri Lankan countryside as your personal playground should blow the desert dust away. Run by Element Fitness, you’ll stay at a picturesque riverfront camp, try local cooking and meet fellow adventurers. These outdoorsy breaks will inspire you to take on a new challenge, kick-start an exercise regime and leave you full of energy.

Apr 6 to 11, Element Fitness. discoverborderlands.com

THE RUNNING RESORT IN KENYA

While this ‘holiday’ claims it can cater to complete beginners up to elite athletes, this probably isn’t the place to go if you get a bit out of breath on the stairs.

Set up by an English couple, at the Rift Valley camp you’ll train with Kenyan runners, visit local schools that have produced world-class athletes, have personal coaching in ‘doing it the Kenyan way’, enjoy practical seminars from guest speakers and pound the tracks at high altitude. Then return to the UAE faster than a speeding bullet.

Mar 20 to Apr 3, Train In Kenya, Dhs5,155 includes all meals, activities and transfers from Nairobi. traininkenya.com

THE COWBOY BOOT CAMP Ever seen a fat cowboy? They’re as rare as water in the Texan desert, which is why this fat farm an hour from San Antonio has been so successful. Ranch recruits can stay for a month, often losing ten per cent of their body weight, enjoying hiking, water aerobics, pushing hay bales around and, of course, riding.

The camp’s slogan is ‘giddy up off your butt’. Those cowboys certainly do have a nice turn of phrase.

Rancho Cortez, Dhs20,200 (includes accommodation, meals, fitness programme and cooking classes). ranchocortez.com

18 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

A week of raw food, colonics, yoga, meditation and more veggie juice than you can shake a celery stick at might be just the thing to kick-start a healthy lifestyle for 2012.

Famous for its resorts, The Spa chain offers up a choice of destinations in Thailand; the flagship property in Chiang Mai offers an organic farm, raw food classes, swimming pools, tennis court, outdoor exercise classes, library and spa.

The Spa, Dh1,419 for a week, including accommodation, meals and detoxifying cleanse programme. thesparesorts.net

THE RAINFOREST TOUR IN BRUNEI

There aren’t many places on Earth that boast as much unspoilt beauty as Brunei.

Enjoy nature with a two-day rainforest tour, long-boating up the rapids through national parks, rafting lessons (either white-water or through a jungle river), hiking and camping. Then return up the river to the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, for a night in the Sultan of Brunei’s own Empire Hotel, replete with a private indoor swimming pool and a royaltylevel suite.

Empire Hotel, Brunei, Dhs4,500. theempirehotel.com

WIN!

We have an amazing four-day trip for two people to Brunei, staying at the Empire Hotel and the Ulu-Ulu Resort, including a city tour, visit to Water Village and Proboscis Monkey Tour

Just imagine having everything you desire

ART DUBAI

Five of Dubai’s hottest artistic talents paint a portrait of a city that is full of opportunity, but faced with numerous challenges NASIR NASRALLAH From

Sharjah, UAE

SPECIALITY: Painting and collage nasir.ae; @retrokite

HIND MEZAINA FROM Dubai, UAE SPECIALITY: Lo-fi photographer and online blogger theculturalist.com; hindmezaina.com; @hindmezaina

20 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

AREZU From

Tehran, Iran

SPECIALITY: Photography; my work is done on negatives in the dark room

“We have built an enormously impressive city, and now it is up to us to fill it with art” Michael Cooper

KHALID MEZAINA From

Dubai, UAE

SPECIALITY: Illustrator and graphic designer khalidmezaina. blogspot.com; @kmezaina

MICHAEL COOPER From

Wigan, UK

SPECIALITY: Ceramics, glassblowing, painting and printing @mickycoops

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 21

ART DUBAI

TALKING POINTS

Nasir Nasrallah

Hind Mezaina

Arezu

EDUCATION

Khalid Mezaina

Michael Cooper

THE ART SCENE What impact have the multiple gallery openings in places such as DIFC and Al Quoz in recent years had on the art scene?

AREZU: Back in 2003 the art scene was very raw, but now there is a lot of competition, which can only be a good thing. People are more interested in and educated about art.

MICHAEL COOPER: Each area offers different things. DIFC is a forum that entices high-end artists, where as the galleries in Al Quoz tend to take a few more risks – displaying artists that aren’t the top earners, and promoting education initiatives.

NASIR NASRALLAH: DIFC is very much a public gallery space that is open for anyone to walk around and see the exhibitions, whereas in Al Quoz the galleries are harder to get to and, therefore, more for people who know what they are looking for. It’s great to see the contrast that people have now.

HIND MEZAINA: These days there are more moneymaking opportunities in the art scene than there used to be. But this has created a separate issue, one where the primary focus has shifted from creating art to profiting from it.

How can we avoid that problem?

KHALID MEZAINA: Because art buying can be such a lucrative business, the scene needs to make sure that it keeps encouraging people to keep produce fresh and unique art works, rather than 22 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

“People are starting to get a much clearer idea of what art is. It has become more to them than just a painting on the wall”

becoming stale and replicating the pieces that have sold before.

NASIR NASRALLAH: You have to remember that the scene is still very young – the country is only 40 years old and everything is

How important is art education?

AREZU: It’s very important, but there are still things missing here.

Whether you are a painter or photographer, you have to know about so much more than just your craft.

HIND MEZAINA: It is very important, and it is completely missing in government high schools. The galleries should work to bring schools to visit them, feed the interest of the next generation, and show them what can be done.

KHALID MEZAINA: When I was at school, art was something that you had to do as an extracurricular activity. I’m currently working on a project that involves taking art into government schools.

MICHAEL COOPER: Because the art scene is so young and fresh, when I teach in school I try to show more than just what you see in books, and more about the impact that shape, size, texture and variation can have. Not everything can be learnt in the classroom.

THE FUTURE

So, what is the future of the Dubai scene and how can things be improved?

MICHAEL COOPER: Dubai is a place where you can earn good exposure as an artist. We have built an enormously impressive city, and now it is up to us to fill it with art.

HIND MEZAINA: I want to see galleries where people go during the week rather than just on opening night.

Nasir Nasrallah KHALID MEZAINA: I’d like more design-focused shows, happening at such a quick speed. printmaking shows and pop-up galleries.

Trends will develop and fade – it AREZU: With the larger is all part of a learning curve.

MICHAEL COOPER: There is no international galleries, it would denying that there are big budgets be great to see things such as residency exchanges. here – it’s hard to get away from NASIR NASRALLAH: For me, I that. But I still think that there would like to see more galleries are plenty of people who come collaborating with schools and to galleries to see the art and not universities, perhaps offering just for the social aspect. their spaces for lessons. While HIND MEZAINA: I’d like to see there are some galleries here art in places where you don’t that are in it for the art, there are expect it. I want to see pop-up others that are here just to sell galleries that are not confined to pieces and make a profit. the same spaces.

As world number one team, England, takes on a troubled Pakistan side in the UAE, we pick the players to look out for and elucidate some of the weird and wonderful cricket terminology

W

ho says Test cricket is boring? Not us, that’s for sure. Since England last met Pakistan in the now-infamous home Test series of 2010, Andrew Strauss’ boys have gone on to become superstars and the team crowned the best in the world, while Pakistan have had to rebuild after being embroiled in the betting scandal that besmirched that 2010 series.

Having been banned from playing in Pakistan, due to security concerns, a lot is riding on the three five-day ‘home’ Test matches to be played here in the UAE this month. Is this England side the real deal? Can Pakistan turn the chapter on a dark period in their history? Both of these questions will be answered this month, and What’s On will be there for every ball. We suggest you are, too.

Andrew Strauss

Alastair Cook

GLOSSARY Cricket, above all sports, has its own language. Here’ s a breakdown of some of the more basic terms WICKET – the three poles stuck in the ground at either end of the 22-yard grass strip with two small sticks (known as bails) placed on top. When a batsman is adjudged ‘out’ by the ‘umpire’ (the man in a long white coat standing at 24 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

Stuart Broad

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Umar Gul

the bowler’s end of the pitch acting like an umpire) he has loat his ‘wicket’

ANDREW STRAUSS

OUT – When one of a side’s 11 batsman loses his ‘wicket’ or is dismissed by the fielding side. There are a number of ways for a fielding side to get a batsman ‘out’, including caught, bowled and leg before wicket (LBW)

Age: 34 Speciality: Batsman Team: England

It was quite a 2011 for the England captain. The opening batsman led his side to a comprehensive Ashes victory in Australia and followed that up by beating an India side packed with iconic players 4-0 to seize the honour of being the world’s top ranked Test side. In fact, under Strauss’ leadership, England are on such a roll that they have not lost a Test series since 2008.

ALASTAIR COOK

Misbah-ul-Haq

UMAR GUL Younus Khan

Age: 27 Speciality: Batsman Team: England

Cook was a run-scoring machine in 2011. He hit a mammoth 766 runs in five Tests against Australia in the Ashes, cruising elegantly past 5,000 career runs – the second youngest player to do so after the great Sachin Tendulkar – before a knock of 294 in the third Test against India confirmed his world-class status and he was named Cricketer Of The Year in September. It’s not hard to see why the left-handed opening batsman has been given the captaincy of the 50-overs team.

STUART BROAD Age: 25 Speciality: Bowler Team: England

Rewind eight months and Stuart Broad couldn’t buy a wicket, and people, including certain members of the What’s On team who have since had to eat their hats, were calling for him to be dropped from the side. Then came the summer of 2011, and India. The oftenhot-headed quick bowler blew the world’s number one team away, allowing England to take their title, and earning himself a Man Of The Series award. He brings some serious pace to the England attack and knows just how to rile the opposition.

MISBAH-UL-HAQ Age: 37 Speciality: Batsman Team: Pakistan

Misbah-ul-Haq has not had a glittering career, but it is certainly one that has flourished since he was controversially handed the Test side’s captaincy in 2010 after the disastrous tour of India. The cool-headed middle-order batsman has steadied a Pakistan team that risked implosion on a grand scale, leading the team to its first series win since 2007 in New Zealand in 2010 before securing another series victory against Sri Lanka right here in the UAE in 2011. When he is onform, so are Pakistan.

Age: 27 Speciality: Bowler Team: Pakistan Make no mistakes about it, Gul is rapid – a demon with the ball in his hand, able to make even the best batsmen hop about a bit. Had it not been for a career plagued with injury, he had the potential to be the next big name Pakistani fast bowler – a new Wasim Akram or Waqar Younis.

So here’s hoping he stays fit and healthy for the England series.

More than any other Pakistan player, the UAE is a home-awayfrom home for Gul, as he first met his wife in Dubai.

YOUNUS KHAN Age: 34 Speciality: Batsman Team: Pakistan

As a high-scoring no-nonsense batsman, and one of the best players of spin in the world (a challenge for England’s Graeme Swann, the highest ranked spin bowler in the world), plus an excellent fielder, Khan’s reputation precedes him. He also seems to have taken a liking to the UAE, having previously hit test hundreds here against the West Indies, South Africa and at the end of last year against Sri Lanka. England beware.

Test 1, Jan 17 to 21, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, 10am to 6pm. Tel: (04) 4251111. dubaisportscity.ae. Test 2, Jan 25 to 29, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 6pm. Tel: (02) 5588331.

Test 3, Feb 3 to 7, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, 10am to 6pm. Tel: (04) 4251111. dubaisportscity.ae

CAUGHT – the batsman strikes the ball and before it hits the ground a member of the opposition fielding side catches it BOWLED – the bowler bowls the ball and it hits the batsman’s wicket, knocking off the bails LBW – the bowler bowls the ball, it pitches (hits the ground) in line with the wicket and then strikes the batsman’s pads without hitting his bat RUN – The batting team scores a run (point) by running between the wickets, four runs by striking the ball along the ground the to boundary or six runs by hitting in the air over the boundary BOUNDARY – the rope laid in an oval shape to denote the size of the playing area OVER – A series of six balls bowled by a single bowler in sequence INNINGS – One side’s turn to bat and score runs, completed when ten batsmen are out.

Each team has two innings in a Test match ONSIDE/LEGSIDE – The half of the field on the same side as the batsman’s legs as he stands in the batting stance OFFSIDE – the half of the field away on the side of the batsman’s bat as he stands in the batting stance JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 25

FILM

NEW RELEASES

Dream House

The Muppets

Dream House

The Muppets

Rampart

WHO?

Daniel Craig, Rachel Weisz, Naomi Watts, Marton Csokas, Jim Sheridan (director)

Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, Rashida Jones, Jack Black, James Bobin (director)

Woody Harrelson, Ben Foster, Ice Cube, Anne Heche, Sigourney Weaver, Steve Buscemi, Oren Moverman (director)

TAGLINE

‘Once upon a time there were two little girls who lived in a house.’

‘They’re closer than you think.’

‘The most corrupt cop you’ve ever seen on screen.’

ONCE UPON A TIME...

Well, there were two little girls who lived in a house, evidently.

More to the point, they were dead. And their father, a psychiatric patient, was busy trying to convince himself that they were alive and well.

A sinister oil magnate forged a shady deal to tear down the disused Muppet Theatre and drill under it for black gold. Upon hearing the news, the original Muppets decided to come out of retirement to foil the plan.

Dave Brown (Harrelson) was one of the central figures in a huge ‘dirty cops’ scandal rocking the 1990s LAPD. As the net closed, he resolved to abuse his authority to attempt a dangerous make-orbreak cash grab.

IDEAL IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD TO...

Enjoy some minor chills while watching a talented cast gamely attempt – but largely fail – to wrestle a fresh take from a few over-familiar psychological horror tropes.

Rediscover how Jim Henson’s colourfully crazed puppet creations bewitched an entire generation of TV kids – happily, this reboot stays pretty true to Henson’s endearingly wacky vision.

Dip into Harrelson’s dark side.

We’ve seen it before, most notably in Natural Born Killers – here, his twisted lawless lawman is bound to conjure images of that notoriously chilling character study.

WATCH THIS IF YOU LIKE...

The Shining, which Daniel Craig in the lead role here tries very, very hard not to make you think of immediately. It’s a pretty commendable effort. But you still think of it straight away.

The Muppet Movie (1979), The Great Muppet Caper (1981), The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984), The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), Muppet Treasure Island (1996). Yeah, you get the general idea.

Oren Moverman’s 2007 drama The Messenger, set in the world of Iraq veterans, which also brought together the team of Moverman, Harrelson, Foster and Buscemi.

TOP TRIVIA

Christian Bale and Brad Pitt were both considered for the role.

Weisz must’ve been pleased that Craig showed up – they fell in love on set and are now married.

Chemistry-phobics beware.

In a film chock-full of cameo appearances, Alan Arkin is the only one to pop up from the first Muppets movie back in 1979 – although you will spot several visual references to Henson, who sadly died in 1990.

The actual Rampart police department scandal that gripped Los Angeles in the late-1990s became a focus of the investigation into the murder of rapper Notorious BIG.

WHAT’S ON TEN WORD OR LESS REVIEW

The mid-film twist comes too late for full redemption.

Fine return to form reminds us what we’ve been missing.

Hardly a factual portrayal, but a gripping enough ensemble effort.

RATE OR SLATE?

★★✩✩✩

★★★★✩

PREVIEW

26 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

New Year’s Eve

Rampart

War Horse

Our Idiot Brother

Our Idiot Brother

Don 2: The Chase Continues

New Year’s Eve

War Horse

Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Banks, Zooey Deschanel, Emily Mortimer

Shahrukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, Om Puri, Kunal Kapoor, Farhan Akhtar (director)

Halle Berry, Robert De Niro, Zac Efron, Jessica Biel, Ashton Kutcher, Gary Marshall (director)

Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson, Peter Mullan, David Thewlis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Steven Spielberg (director)

‘Everybody has one.’

‘Get ready for the return of the king.’

‘The one night anything is possible.’

‘Separated by war. Tested by battle. Bound by friendship.’

After getting caught up in a police sting, hippy idealist Ned (Rudd) did his jail time and was released to his three sisters – whose lives weren’t exactly enhanced by his well-meaning, but incompetent, ways.

Street-smart and merciless mobster Don (Kahn) had already schemed his way to the top of the Malaysian underworld… and then decided that conquering Europe’s crime syndicates would be his next goal.

A huge ensemble cast of well-known faces were crammed into a series of small holidaythemed stories about individuals coming together and falling apart on Dec 31.

As the first World War loomed, Devon lad Albert Narracott’s beloved horse, Joey, was sold to the cavalry in France. Albert signed up to fight, and soon found himself on an epic international journey too.

Have your socks charmed off by Rudd as the oafish, but infinitely likeable, titular character, gifted a script peppered with witty oneliners despite the somewhat, uh, weedy premise.

Settle back with a bathtub full of popcorn and escape into a world where fists fly, tyres squeal, pistols smoke and the pacy action leaps from Kuala Lumpur to Berlin without pausing for breath.

Feel distinctly queasy about the distant notion of New Year’s Eve 2012, and spend two hours fantasising that this film might somehow lead to it being cancelled outright.

Stock up on several hundred boxes of tissues and weep yourself silly as the plucky horse is shipped around battlefields, inspiring and affecting all who encounter him.

Either numbskull slapstick (Dumb & Dumber, The Waterboy) or slacker indie comedy (Ghost World, The Big Lebowski) – this one pitches itself somewhere in between.

The 2006 Don movie (a remake of the 1978 version, confusingly subtitled The Chase Begins Again), also directed by Akhtar. Or pretty much anything involving street thugs and explosive wire stunts.

Weapons-grade schmaltz delivered through a stodgy yet gossamer-light mash-up of mundane set-ups, witless observations and hammy sentimentalism.

Seabiscuit, Gary Ross’ dramatic 2003 biopic of the underappreciated racing thoroughbred of the same name – less gunfire there, of course, but the same weepy horse-jeopardy was in full effect.

One of Ned’s sisters is played by Elizabeth Banks, who previously starred as a love interest to Rudd in Role Models (2008) and Wet Hot American Summer (2001).

Akhtar’s father, Javed, was largely responsible for writing the screenplay for the 2006 Don film – here, his son has taken over writing duties, with help from fans of the first movie.

Marshall’s previous film, Valentine’s Day, attempted a similar format – and was also critically panned for being dull, overly sentimental and packed full of yanwsome romcom clichés.

Michael Morpurgo wrote the original 1982 children’s novel on which the story is based, although the film version takes several cues from the incredibly successful 2007 stage adaptation by Nick Stafford.

Wafer-thin, but endearingly funny, allegory hits the spot nicely.

Disengage brain and enjoy some serious bang for your buck.

Sickly-sweet toe-curler feels phoned in by everyone involved.

A poignant, stirring drama – prepare to sob yourself, er, hoarse.

★★★✩✩

PREVIEW

★✩✩✩✩

PREVIEW JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 27

Eat Well Feel Well by Daniel Green World renowned healthy eating expert and TV celebrity Chef Daniel Green will grace the kitchens of Dusit Thani Dubai from 5th to 9th February to introduce healthy dishes that will form part of the restaurant’s menu.

Sample great tasting gourmet meals at Delicatessen and The Californian restaurant or book a table for the Gala Dinner in Al Wasl Ballroom on 8th February and embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Rates: AED 395 per person inclusive of a 6-Course Gala Dinner* menu and selected house beverages in Al Wasl Ballroom AED 125 per person inclusive of Themed Nights Buffet and soft beverages at The Californian restaurant Visit Dusit Thani Dubai facebook page to participate in the competition and get a chance to win a Gala Dinner for two or a private homecooking for six with Chef Daniel Green. *Amazing prizes to be won at the Gala Dinner

For enquiries and reservations: Tel: +971 4 317 4515 Email: dine.dtdu@dusit.com Web: dusitthanidubai.dusit.com

WHAT’S ON

EATING OUT Reviews, recipes, columnists and the latest food news

p31 QUEST · p32 18° · p34 THE CHEF · p35 THE CONNOISSEUR JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 29

EATING OUT

FOOD EDITOR'S LETTER Blimey – it’s 2012. And, to slip briefly into cliché, what a year it’s been. We’ve seen the rise and rise of restaurants like Zuma and La Petite Maison, the departure of Gordon Ramsay, and the arrival of The Ivy, Hakkasan and Gaucho. And that’s before we consider the fine restaurants that have opened in the capital, and the exciting plans for Abu Dhabi’s restaurant scene over the next 12 months. Dining in the UAE has never been such a pleasurable experience.

But, if we want to challenge global food behemoths like London, Paris and New York, or even regional culinary leaders like Beirut and Istanbul, we need to keep moving forward with purpose. So, in the grand old tradition of editor’s wish lists, here is mine for 2012.

We need more homegrown restaurant brands like Okku and Table 9 By Nick And Scott. We need to see a move away from the supermarket, and the opening of more farmers’ markets to add to Ripe (ripeme.com) and Baker & Spice (bakerandspiceme.com). More restaurants need to champion local produce, and these markets draw attention to local farms. More notice needs to be paid to the Choose Wisely campaign (choosewisely.ae) to promote the use of sustainable fish. Finally, I would like to see more inventiveness from the city’s kitchens, and more thought put in to creating truly unique restaurant concepts. We can’t rely solely on imported brands and old classics.

To start off 2012, we visit Abu Dhabi restaurants, Quest (p31) and 18 Degrees (p32), cook a classic spaghetti vongole (p33) and explore Italian wine (p35). Plus our Twitter recipe (p33), Gary Rhodes (p34) and food news (p36). Happy New Year, and bon appetit for 2012.

Gareth Rees Features & Food Editor If you have any comment or opinions on Eating Out or the UAE food scene, please e-mail gareth@ motivate.ae

Quest

wave of childish glee as the candy fizzes on your tongue.

We were tempted by the five spice duck for A visit to Etihad Towers' Asian the main course – a fusion restaurant is entertaining, confit breast and soy braised leg – but the but is the food more style poulet de bresse (first than substance? rate French chicken), f location were everything, then Quest, the served with a generous new flagship restaurant at Etihad Towers, side portion of mildly spiced rice, turned out Jumeirah’s first foray into the capital, to be delectably tender – a more classic dish, would easily clean up the competition. both in flavour and presentation, it lacked the Resplendent with stratospheric views across pizzazz of some of the other dishes we ate. the city and Gulf from its 63rd Fortunately, for dessert the floor vantage point, a quietly chef presented us with another classy interior and plenty of dish as entertaining as our NEED TO KNOW bespoke features, it definitely starter. The yuzu crumble was Location: Etihad Towers, has the wow factor. a real spectacle. The East Asian West Corniche, Abu Dhabi The menu has a definite citrus fruit vaguely resembles Tel: (02) 8115555 Singapore swing, thanks to a caramelised lemon. When Web: jumeirah.com the presence of Singaporean pierced and sliced open, Open: lunch Sun to Thurs chef Benjamin Whatt, however, its gooey, warm noon to 3.30pm, dinner previously at the Burj Al Arab contents are easily coaxed into daily 7pm to 11.30pm in Dubai. Chef Whatt’s Asian a crunchy crumble, like an Cuisine type: Asian fusion fusion menu is designed to especially appetising Kinder Must eat: yuzu crumble knock starch from the stuffy Egg for grown ups.

Bill for two: Dhs655 fine dining experience often Jumeirah’s latest is more (without alcohol) offered in such landmarks of of an adventure than a quest. luxury and make eating fun.

From custom-made sugar The cereal prawn, a trio pots for your post-meal tea or of juicy Spanish-sourced IN TWEET FORM coffee, through to an adorable crustaceans, proves a perfect Quest’s adventurous menu wooden device featuring a early indication of his is as fun as it is expertly javelin thrower figure who intentions, interspersing executed, unlike the stuffy dispenses and picks up flecks of popping candy fine dining experience toothpicks at the push of a through its crumbly oat base. you might expect from a thumb, and, of course, chef The use of popping candy restaurant in such a luxury Whatt’s food, fun is definitely is a bit of a gimmick, which landmark. foremost in the restaurant Follow us at anyone who has seen a few team’s mind. Entertaining @WhatsOnDubai and episodes of Come Dine With food – something the UAE @WhatsOnAbuDhabi Me will be familiar with, but doesn’t have enough of – is it’s impossible not to feel a never a bad thing.

I

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 31

EATING OUT

18°

Will 18 prove the lucky number for brand new architectural wonder the Hyatt Capital Gate’s signature restaurant?

What’s On finds out in an exclusive first review

A

s Abu Dhabi continues to grow outward, it’s starting to mushroom upwards too; breathtaking views are suddenly as big a selling point as extravagantly described dishes at the city's restaurants. Much like Quest’s sky-high position in Jumeirah At Etihad Towers (p33), eyefuls of cityscape panoramas are the draw at 18°, named after the angle of the world recordbreaking hotel’s leaning tower.

The culinary approach of this 18th floor restaurant (see what they did there?) is, however, vastly removed from its fellow high-rise newcomer, despite also boasting the presence of a chef with experience in Michelin NEED TO KNOW starred kitchens, the Location: Hyatt Capital Italian Ivan Musoni.

Gate, Abu Dhabi National In fact, Musoni doesn’t Exhibition Centre, Al want to trumpet his Khaleej Al Arabi Street, prior status or aim for Abu Dhabi traditional fine dining.

Tel: (02) 5961234 Rather, he is more Web: abudhabi. interested in creating a capitalgate.hyatt.com social aspect and keeping Open: daily 7pm to diners entertained 11.30pm during a tour around the Cuisine type: Eastern Eastern Mediterranean.

Mediterranean The menu is split into Must eat: yoghurt and five countries – Italy, apricot muhallabiah Greece, Turkey, Syria Bill for two: Dhs650, and Lebanon – with a excluding wine numerically themed 18 starters and 18 mains in total, allowing one IN TWEET FORM to choose dishes from Navigating the Eastern just one territory or Mediterranean, 18°’s several. When ordering welcoming atmosphere a la carte, guests are and unpretentious encouraged to pick approach mark out a smart several dishes during new niche in the capital each course and share Follow us at with companions. @WhatsOnDubai and Couch-style seating is @WhatsOnAbuDhabi available at many of the 32 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

booths, while a daily selection of freshly made additional starters and desserts are displayed on a deli counter.

The pick of the starters is the pine nut and olive falafel with tashina yoghurt (Dhs45) – firm, greenish morsels that have us calling the waiter back for a second helping. The cod fish brandade (Dhs80) is a close second, replete with crispy polenta and an excellent red onion marmalade.

Comparatively, the mains fail to truly shine, although the tangy topping on our chicken (Dhs130), encompassing sumac, tomato, paprika and green harissa, pleasantly lingered on the tongue.

One of the simplest dishes at 18° also turns out to be our final highlight: a dessert glass of yoghurt and apricot muhallabiah (Dhs55), with the imaginative touch of a coarse Turkish cotton candy topping, is refreshingly fruity.

If you’re in search of an occasion restaurant for a special, intimate, one-off meal, this probably isn’t the venue. But for an unpretentious approach to dining out, 18°, even in its infancy, is carving out a nice new niche for itself on the capital's dining scene.

EATING OUT

Cook a classic Spaghetti vongole

BiCE Mare executive chef Francesco Guarracino reveals mama’s secret recipe for the classic clam dish

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INGREDIENTS

TWITTER RECIPE

* 400g clams (palourdes, or carpet shell are ideal) * 160g dried spaghetti * Two tbsp extra virgin olive oil * Two fat cloves of garlic * Half a medium-hot red chilli finely chopped * 50ml dry white wine * Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped

METHOD

Rinse the clams in cold running water and scrub if necessary, then put them into a large bowl and cover with cold water. Salt generously and leave for a couple of hours, then drain and rinse well to remove any grit or sand.

Put the spaghetti into a large pan of salted boiling water and cook for the recommended time, until almost cooked and still al dente. Meanwhile, put the olive oil in a large pan over a slow heat and soften the

garlic and chilli. After two minutes, add the drained clams, and turn up the heat. Pour in the wine, cover and leave for a couple of minutes until most of them have opened. Discard any that are still closed.

Drain the spaghetti, add to the pan, toss well and leave for a minute. Stir through the chopped parsley and some more extra virgin olive oil.

Season to taste.

BiCE Mare, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, noon to 4pm and 6pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4230982. bicemare.com

Cooking couldn’t be simpler with our monthly recipe in 140 characters

STRAWBERRY CONSOMMÉ 5

Put 500g washed, halved, strawberries in a large bowl. Add 150g sugar & 10g lemon juice. Leave in a warm place for 4hrs.

Strain. Chill.

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Follow Shaun Anthony, chef de cuisine at Sayad @emiratesp

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Sayad, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, daily 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6909000. emiratespalace.com Follow us at @WhatsOnDubai and @WhatsOnAbuDhabi JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 33

EATING OUT

The chef

RISOTTO RICE PUDDING WITH COGNAC SULTANAS SERVES FOUR

Our columnist, celebrity chef and restaurateur Gary Rhodes, offers up a decadent dessert to keep you toasty warm this winter

INGREDIENTS

75g golden sultanas, three to four tbsp Cognac, 700ml milk, 300ml double cream, finely grated zest of one small orange, one vanilla pod (split lengthways), 100g Arborio rice, caster sugar, large knob of butter.

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t may be the time of year for New Year’s resolutions, but I believe that, once a month, people should treat themselves.

If you think about it like that, it’s only 12 days in a year that you have really indulged – that’s not outrageous, is it?

For most of the year, tucking into a lovely, warm pudding isn’t ideal, but January is an exception to that. It’s not Europe, but January is still a cooler month here in the UAE. This rice pudding has that pudding depth and flavour but, because we are using risotto rice rather than traditional pudding rice, it doesn’t have that heavy, starchy, chewy texture. I call it risotto rice not risotto, because I’m not using the classic method of making risotto. You just put everything in and it takes about 30 to 35 minutes to make.

It’s a pudding but it’s still light.

The best thing about the cognac sultanas is that there is no sugar added to them. The flavour comes from the natural sweetness in the sultanas themselves, and when you have warmed them together, and let them steep, you are creating a light syrup that has taken on the sweetness of the sultana and the bite from the cognac. I like to spoon the sultanas on top and mix them in as I eat.

But in the UAE a great alternative is to use dates. Chop them up roughly, put them in the orange or cognac, perhaps add a little

METHOD

"The greatest social meeting place in the world is the dinner table, it's what draws family and friends together"

NEXT MONTH: MUSHROOM AND SPINACH PANCAKES 34 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

Put the sultanas and brandy in a small saucepan and bring to a touch of water and simmer. Remove the pan from a drop of golden the heat and put to one side. syrup, and let that Pour the milk and cream into a simmer for about ten saucepan, add the orange zest minutes to soften the and vanilla pod. Bring to the dates up. That creates boil and add the rice and sugar. a kind of toffee Simmer very gently over a low effect. You can call heat, stirring slowly for 30 to it your own toffee 35 minutes until the rice is risotto rice pudding cooked through and creamy.

– I think that sounds Remove the vanilla pod from quite sexy. the rice, stir in the sultanas and If you want nonadd the butter. alcoholic, it is not a problem at all. You can substitute the cognac with orange juice. Put the sultanas in the orange juice and let them simmer gently for ten minutes. Slowly but surely the sultanas will start to open up, absorbing the flavour and at the same time releasing their natural sweetness into the juice, so you start to get a really nice syrup.

Everyone who has a dislike of rice pudding from days of old should give it one more chance and try this recipe.

Chances are they will start thinking ‘why didn’t I like this before? I’ve missed out on years of eating it’. They’ll be scooping away thinking ‘this is divine’.

The greatest social meeting place in the world is the dinner table, it’s what draws family and friends together, and as far as I’m concerned it should be the culinary theatre of the world. You are waiting for those curtains to open and the food to arrive and perform, and that is what we should be doing with this meal. As simple as it is, it can be a grand finale to a great show.

The connoisseur Restaurant manager and sommelier at the What’s On Award-winning BiCE, Piero Giglio, demystifies Italian wine Italian wine has quite an impressive history. The first vineyard was planted by the Greeks in 800BC, and then, of course, came the Romans. So it’s a very old culture.

We have grape varieties that nobody else has, for example Aangiovese. Compare that to grapes like Merlot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc – nowadays they are grown all over the world.

Italian wine is unique.

Italy is one of the world's biggest exporters of wine, but that hasn't affected the quality. A lot of effort is put into keeping up the standard, with legislation like the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC), Denominazione di Origine Controllate e Garantita (DOCG) and Indicazione Geographica Tipica (IGT) guaranteeing quality and protecting legitimate producers from smaller operations that were contaminating the market with lesser wines.

In the colder north of Italy, in Veneto and Piedmont, the red wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco, are extremely full bodied because they are made with the richer regional food in mind. You have heavy wines in the south as well, because when the weather is hot grapes mature and produce more sugar and more alcohol, but you also have more of a mix.

If you are new to Italian wine, start with Tuscany and have a glass of Chianti. It’s medium bodied and, because it’s a single grape variety rather than a blend, it’s easy to drink. Blended wines,

like the famous Super Tuscany wines (Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Franc), are more complex. To learn more about wine, you must try one grape at a time. Then you can start to understand the culture, the territory, the soil and so on.

Pinot Grigio is a good white wine to start with. You can drink it as an aperitif, or with a salad – it’s a classic. It’s not heavy in alcohol; it’s a dry, fresh wine.

Then you could try Suave from Veneto, which is a very light and simple wine, and also Amarone. It’s a red that’s easy to get to grips with.

The wines from Piedmont are quite complex, so I would leave them until you have a greater understanding of Italian wine.

Most people like to drink the classic wines that I have spoken about, which is a good place to start for a beginner. But Italy has many lesser known wines that are worth discovering.

There are a couple of wines from Puglia that I love and which you should try. There are those made from the Negroamaro grape, which are medium bodied. Then there are those made from Primitivo, one of the first grapes planted in Italy, which are full bodied.

If you wan to learn more, every year Gambero Rosso (gamberorosso.it) produces a book called Italian Wines, which updates you on all the best wine in Italy. Or, naturally, you can come for dinner at BiCE and we’ll teach you.

BiCE, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort, Dubai Marina.

Tel: (04) 3991111. hilton.com

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NEXT MONTH: NORTH AMERICAN WINE JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 35

EATING OUT

ON THE MENU

A few delectable morsels of food news to whet your appetite for 2012

BBQ like a pro

If there’s one thing the Argentines enjoy even more than Malbec and Maradona, it’s meat.

Throwing meat on the barbecue – or asado, as they’re known there – is a huge Argentine pastime. So who better to teach you how to master the art of BBQ than Norberto Palacios, the head chef of the What's On Awardwinning restaurant, Asado? Norberto will hold BBQ masterclasses every Friday and Saturday beside the pool at The Palace – The Old Town.

We suggest you grab your tongs and head down there.

Asado, The Palace – The Old Town, Downtown, Dubai, Fri and Sat 11am to 1.30pm, Dhs295.

Tel: (04) 4287971. thepalacedubai.com

RUMOUR MILL

Word on the What’s On wiretap is that one of our favourite bars, the Belgian Beer Café, will be opening its third Dubai branch at the Madinat this year.

NEW MENU

The Terrace

WORLD'S YOUR OYSTER For those who didn’t quite enjoy a sufficient number of swanky parties over Christmas and new year, the Cavalli club has extended its indulgent oysters and caviar menu until January 15. The menu includes the pied-de-cheval oyster, which

is one of the rarest in the world and weighs approximately half a kilo, as well as primal dishes such as steak tartar with caviar.

Until Jan 15, Cavalli Club, Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 8pm.

Tel: (04) 3329260. cavalliclubdubai.com

Man from Japan

It’s all change at the Yacht Club in Abu Dhabi this month, as celebrity Chef Koji Kagawa drops by to revamp its menu. As the corporate sushi chef for the international chain SushiSamba, chef Kagawa will, unsurprisingly, add a distinctive Japanese twist to the menu.

Look out for his soft-shell crab dishes, they’re his speciality.

The Yacht Club, InterContinental Hotel, Bainunah Street, Abu Dhabi.

Tel: (02) 6666888. ichotelsgroup.com 36 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

ANYONE FOR BRUNCH? To all intents and purposes a seafood restaurant, BiCE Mare is

looking to bring the Italian tradition of long weekend family meals to Dubai. New executive chef Francesco Guarracino, who has recently handpicked a crack ten-man team from across Italy, tells us that the plan is to serve up enormous bowls of pasta for the table to share – just like you would get at a traditional Italian family meal. You can read what else chef Francesco has to say for himself online at whatsondubai.tumblr.com

We have always been fans of the seafood at Park Hyatt’s The Terrace, so the news that the menu is being changed for winter was a little bit worrying.

But we’re assured that the new dishes will be inspired by Thai Kitchen and the Park Hyatt’s other outlets, so we’re pretty confident they’ll be up to scratch.

The best news? The seafood is staying.

The Terrace, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 2am.

Tel: (04) 3172222.

Dubai.park.hyatt.com

Fish Bazaar

NEW OPENING

Recently relocated from the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai, the name of the Habtoor Grand’s new restaurant is slightly misleading.

While it makes it pretty clear that it is a fish restaurant, what is not obvious is that it is actually a Thai fish restaurant.

Intriguing, eh? With a new seaside location, outdoor seating and the opportunity for customers to pick their own seafood from a large display, Fish Bazaar could be on to a winner.

Fish Bazaar, Habtoor Grand Beach Resort, Dubai Marina, noon to 2.30pm and 6.30pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 3995000. habtoorhotels.com

EXPERIENCE OUR NEW

FRIDAY BRUNCH

AIR PIERRE

API CAE GOURMET

NEW OPENING

Api Cae. We beg your pardon? Api Cae – it’s a new Italian on the Corniche in Abu Dhabi.

Ah, right, of course it is, silly us.

Why is it that people have to give their restaurants silly names? It’s an Italian. What’s wrong with Mama’s Place or Luigi’s? Anyway, aside from the name, Api Cae sounds like our kind of place. An Italian café, run by a Genoese chef, serving fresh bread, pasta and pizza. If only they’d stuck to what they knew when they thought up the name, eh?

Api Cae Gourmet, Block A, Khalidiya Tower, Khalidiya Area, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi. apicae.ae

BICE, ABU DHABI

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AED

This month there is another reason, as if you needed one, to return to one of our favourite Dubai restaurants, as Pierre Gagnaire jets back into the kitchens at Reflets. The master chef, whose self-titled restaurant in Paris boasts three Michelin-stars, was here in December concocting new recipes for the menu and is returning for a week at the end of this month. We caught up with Pierre on his last visit and he revealed to us that he has something special planned for the Valentine's Day menu. Très romantique.

Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire, InterContinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City.

Tel: (04) 7011111. diningdfc.com

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NEW MENU

It’s always intriguing when an established classic like BiCE changes its menu, and we’re particularly captivated by the promise of Venetian chef Cristiano Goattin’s menu changes for winter. Goattin has been working on 14 new dishes, including salmon tartare and risotto with saffron, thyme and grilled scallops. But it’s the Venetian fish soup, a real classic, which we’re looking forward to trying the most.

BiCE, Hilton Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6811900. hilton.com

@ WEST SIDE RESTAURANT Fridays 12 noon – 4 pm

When in Venice

Let’s face it – Italians know how to unwind in style after a hard day of work. That’s why DIFC’s Venetianstyle Caffé Florian is respectfully doffing its cap to the Italian lifestyle and offering a special post-work apperitivo menu on weekdays from 6pm to 9pm. The menu includes a classic spritz drink made from soda water and fruit, and a selection of cicchetti snacks including iced olives, homemade crisps and mini bruschetta.

Caffé Florian, DIFC, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs45, 6pm to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 3231833. caffeflorian.com

*Subject to 10% service charges and 6% tourism fees

For rates and group offers, please contact: Oryx Hotel Abu Dhabi, Zayed the First Street, Khalidiya Phone: 02 681 0001, reservations@oryxhotel.ae, www.oryxhotel.ae

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 37

WHAT’S ON

ARTS

MARWAN SAHMRANI

Artists, galleries, news, events and more

p40 GRAND DESIGNS · p41 THE ART INSIDER · p42 FIVE TO SEE · JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 39

ARTS

Grand designs Riding high on the success of his first solo show, Emirati designer Khalid Shafar reveals his latest masterplan leadership, but I am enjoying my design journey and I feel I belong to this part of me more.

How did you get started?

It was always my long-term personal and professional goal to be a designer, but marketing was my first career choice.

Academically, I am a combination of both disciplines.

I decided one day I wanted to design a piece that would carry my name always. I don’t regret my corporate life at all. It taught me discipline, management skills, and 40 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

You currently split your time between the UAE and New Zealand – what does each place bring to your work?

My designs are a fusion of East and West. They are the outcome of a cultural exchange between the UAE and New Zealand.

Each place has its own light, space, cultural history and mood. It interests me to explore the Arabian culture in contemporary pieces and introduce them to New Zealand. It is very open to global design and one day I hope to see my Arabian-influenced pieces in Kiwi

homes. Living between both cultures makes me understand and adapt to both communities views, both culturally and in terms of design.

What are your biggest influences?

My lifestyle, surroundings, the city I grew up in, and my life memories are always a rich source of influences.

Yet a designer is always sensitive to the beauty of things around him and, for me, I find inspiration in many things be it crafts, art, and people.

You employ traditional UAE motifs and materials in your work – why is this important to you?

At my recent collection for 2012, The Palm line,

particularly, featured materials strongly linked to my culture and heritage. I don’t mean for this to become my trademark, but I strongly believe that it’s important for me to expose it in many creative ways. Some of these are dying crafts that I hope, by drawing attention to them in my designs, I will in some way help to keep alive.

My ‘T’ chandelier, for example, is inspired by the simple tools used to make talli embroidery in the UAE. How do you see homegrown design developing in the UAE? Do you hope to be an inspiration?

I’m glad to see events such as Design Days Dubai and Design Studio at Abu Dhabi Art taking a lead on this and I’m confident this will encourage more local talents and designers to express their creativity and expose their work to the world. I hope my work will be a source of inspiration for other designers from the region and globally – my primary career aspiration is to build a strong, reputable Emirati brand with an international presence in the design world. I’m very keen to get involved in more collaboration with international designers. My long-term plan is to open my flagship stores around the world – of course, Dubai will be my first location!

Until Feb 4, Pavilion Downtown Dubai, Dubai, free.

Tel: (04) 4477025. pavilion.ae

ARTS

CHARLES POCOCK

THE ART INSIDER A

nother new year is upon us, and, as with all new years, should bring with it new hopes for the benefit of all – not the individual. As I argued in last month’s column, now really is the time for all those in the art world to move forward together.

I am often asked for my opinion on works by modern masters from the Middle East in relation to the authenticity of a work of art, and it is becoming harder. Many experts, including myself, are becoming reluctant to give opinions, public or private, because of the threat of legal action.

The Andy Warhol Foundation will close its doors in early 2012 because of the cost of lawsuits directly relating to authenticity reports; a similar fate befell the Pollock-Krasner Foundation in 1995. So, when I am asked for an opinion, I provide necessary facts but leave the client to make the decision.

This is what I did when an auction house based in

Dubai presented me with a work

by Ismail Fattah earlier this year.

As experts become more reluctant to offer their opinions, issues of transparency in the market, and the lack of it, will arise – meaning the client could be put at risk. I have discussed this matter with others in the art world and most agree that we need to be more transparent and accessible, for all of our long-term benefit. But we need to work together to ensure this becomes the reality.

I recently visited Doha where Mathaf: Arab Museum

NEWS FLASH

Culture Club

Celebrate the new year in classical style. Charbel Rouhana, celebrated as Lebanon’s finest oud player, joins violinist Mohamad Hamami to play at the Dubai-based Sharq Orchestra’s third annual New Year Concert at Ductac on January 13. Mamami founded Sharq in 2008, bringing together 45 musicians from 22 countries to create a band of musos specialising in playing Arabic classics and, now, its own compositions. Or, if dance is more your thing, then hotfoot it to the Centrepoint Theatre for the Sharmila Dance Gala (January 4 to 5), which brings local dancers together with international stars from the prestigious Stuttgart Ballet Company and the Estonian National Ballet Company to perform a programme combining both classical and contemporary dance. All in all, it’s a great way to kick off your cultural 2012. ductac.org

Of Modern Art in Doha launched Saraab, Cai Guo-Qiang’s retrospective that will run until May 2012, continuing Mathaf ’s commitment to the exhibition of modern and contemporary art from an Arabic perspective.

Long may it continue.

The artist draws his inspiration from the Chinese city of Quanzhou and the Islamic and Arabic references found within it. Quanzhou is recognised as the location of the first Islamic community dating back to 637 AD, and recorded trade from 500BC between Basra and Quanzhou – Quanzhou being China’s premier trading destination in ancient times. The exhibition is quite remarkable in

its concept, content and in its execution.

This should be a year of group action, and I strongly urge you all to jump on a plane and see this show. From the UAE, it can easily be done in one day, so there can be no excuses to miss it. Happy New Year.

Art historian, dedicated collector and managing director of Dubai’s Meem Gallery, Charles Pocock knows the UAE art scene like the back of a Picasso. Do you have an art question for Charles?

E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae

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JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 41

ARTS

Five to See...

1) Innerscapes

Turkish photographer Nazif Topcuoglu produces lavish, detailed photographic tableaux that strongly nod to classic art works. For all their technical beauty, however, the artist has much to say about the place of young women in the world today, which he explores in a more reflective, but no less beautiful, way in this new series of work.

Until Mar 5, Green Art Gallery, Unit 28, Street 8, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3469306. gagallery. wordpress.com

2) Sharjah Biennial 10 – Film & Video Commissions

Featuring seven films and three audio works that were commissioned for Sharjah Biennial 10 around the key words of its conceptual framework – Treason, Affiliation, Corruption, Necessity, Devotion And Disclosure, Translation and Insurrection. Interesting concepts that have been interestingly – and expertly – interpreted.

Until Jan 15, Sharjah Art Foundation, Arts Area (behind Corniche Street), Sharjah, free. Tel: (06) 5685050. sharjahart.org

3) Marie, Marie, 4) Throw Your 5) Trespassing The Devil In Me Symbols On Last chance to catch Dubai-based Iranian Has Taken You For The Wall A show of new works from artist Arezu’s compelling A Ride Intriguing title, intriguing show. Start your engines for Art Dubai in March by going along to this solo show by 2010 Abraaj Capital Art Prize winner, Marwan Sahmarani. Deft brushstrokes and a bold palette are typical of this Lebanese painter’s style, but it’s the urgency and vibrancy of his subjects that really draw viewers in.

Until Feb 16, Lawrie Shabibi Gallery, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3469906. lawrieshabibi.com

Dubai-based Palestinian artist Jeffar Khaldi that blend a certain punk sensibility with an eagle-eyed overview of international (largely Middle Eastern) current affairs. As ever, Khaldi adds a deeply personal dimension to subjects drawn from politics and the news, making the global local.

Until 12 January. Gallery IVDE, Unit 17, Street 8, Al Serkal Avenue, Dubai, free.

Tel: (04) 3235052. ivde.net

photographic works.

Two distinctly different sets of images – one capturing crows in flight, the other an homage to 19th century Orientalist odalisques – nonetheless plough a similar creative furrow: the search and desire for freedom while retaining anonymity.

Until Jan 10, XVA Gallery, Gate Village 7, DIFC, off Zabeel Road, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3585117. xvagallery.com 5

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WHAT’S ON

SHOPPING

CHANEL

Designers, shops, trends, hot spots and more

p46 THE TEN MUST-HAVE GADGETS FOR 2012 · p48 SHOP TALK JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 45

WIN! We have a Nespresso Pixie to give to one lucky reader. If you’d like to win your very own compact coffee maker, e-mail winwithwhatson@motivate.ae with PIXIE in the subject line and tell us…

George Clooney became a star because of which TV programme? a) ER b) QVC c) BBC

SHOPPING

The 10 must-have gadgets for 2012

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Luddites beware – this is the year of the tech-head.

Put down that abacus, stop making finger puppets from felt and start boosting your cool points with our pick of the latest bits of kit

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1) OPTOMA PK120 A pocket projector can turn your apartment wall into a cinema, and your camping trip into the best horror film screening ever (Wolf Creek should give everyone a sleepless night).

Dhs800. amazon.com 2) TRUMSTAND Finally, a docking station your dad understands. Styled as a gramophone, this iPhone stand acts as a charger while the old fashioned, nickelplated horn boosts

the power of your tunes. Play some 1920s jitterbug for extra authenticity.

Dhs8,800. firebox.com 3) NESPRESSO PIXIE The most compact of coffee machines endorsed by Geroge Clooney, the Pixie is a countertop marvel and just the ticket for getting you out of the door with caffeine pumping merrily through your veins. And it comes in pretty colours, too.

Nespresso, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs1,300.

Tel: (04) 8853131. nespresso.com

46 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

4) AIR SWIMMERS Not all technology has to be useful, as our finned friend proves.

This helium-filled, remote control blimp will glide through the air with ease – we use ours for sending drinks orders across the office. Four chocomilks, please.

Dhs240. firebox.com 5) SCALEXTRIC TEAM GB VELODROME Embrace Olympic fever with this cycling set-up, where you can race mini members of Team GB against each

other. Tiny medals not included. Hope that’s not a prediction…

Dhs290. scalextric.com 6) PURE EVOKE RADIO Modern gadgetry meets homespun charm, with this DAB radio with designer Orla Kiely’s touch.

Dhs836. pureaudio.com 7) LUCKY VOICE PARTY BOX Who needs public humiliation in a karaoke bar when you can belt out the hits at home? Included in this package is a mixer,

microphone, cables and one month of unlimited songs from the 8,000 on the Lucky Voice website. Warn the neighbours or invite them over for a singsong.

Dhs275. luckyvoice.com 8) LOMOGRAPHY LA SARDINA Is it a camera or a tin of sardines? Not ideal if you’re hungry, but fantastic if you like taking cool pics, this Lomography 35mm snapper has a 22mm lens for panoramic shots, and an adjustable flash. Tasty.

Dhs550. lomography.com

9) HERCULES DJ 4 SET With two decks, instereo output and jog wheels, you can connect this to your Mac or PC and mix your tunes, then send What’s On details of your new club night.

Dhs1,400. hercules.com 10) APPLE IPHONE 4S Did you really think we could ignore the new iPhone? As if. Siri, the voice-activated personal assistant will change to your life. So be nice to her.

Dhs2,570. apple.com/ae

SHOPPING

WIN! WIN! WIN! Treat yourself to some sharp tailoring

WIN! A MADE TO MEASURE SUIT FROM M2M Listen up, chaps – what’s in your diaries for 2012? Maybe a wedding, a job interview, perhaps a few fancy parties? What you’ll need is a suit – and not just an off-the-peg number, either. If a custom-made whistle and flute (non-Cockneys might need to look that one up) has always been a little out of reach, then this is the prize for you – we have teamed up with top Dubai tailors M2M to offer one lucky winner a made to measure suit worth Dhs1,850. The M2M team will talk you through the process, show you the vast range of fabrics and present you with an outfit that will fit like a dream.

For your chance to win, e-mail winwithwhatson@motivate.ae with SUIT in the subject line, plus your contact details and the answer to this question…

Which of the following materials would be an unwise choice for a suit? a) Linen b) Wool c) Lycra

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JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 47

SHOPPING

SHOP TALK

The hottest news from the region’s stores with Deputy Editor Helen Spearman

Social shopping While we love trawling the mall followed by a coffee with pals as much as the next credit cardaddicted shopaholic, sometimes our feet hurt and we can’t be bothered to leave the flat. While you can’t buy online at fashlink.com, you can connect with friends through Facebook, put looks together on the site using pieces from the high street and give feedback on other surfers’ styling.

There’s also an app for fashion on the go.

fashlink.com

For the diary…

Super Sundays Head to Lamcy Plaza on Sundays where there are now loads of discounts every week. Spend Dhs300 at Giordana and you’ll get a free wallet, enjoy 25 per cent off at Bhs, Leader Sport and Kids Stop, take advantage of three-for-two deals at Colors Makeup and be treated to free gifts at Springfield and the Face Shop with every purchase.

lamcyplaza.com

Glambox A cool new concept that sends you sample-sized beauty products each month is starting in the UAE. Sign up for three, six or 12 months and you'll be sent goodies from the likes of Lancome, Kiehl's and Elizabeth Arden.

NEW FOR 2012

Our pick of the latest stores to open their doors

I Love Fashion

Your 2D viewing pleasure is set to become a 3D shopping experience, with the opening of Fashion TV’s first store in the region. The collection features suitably glam pieces, with the shop packed with smart technology, including a LED catwalk, 40 mannequins on a suspended conveyer belt, TVs screening the latest fashion footage from the catwalk and staff using iPads to access the stockroom. Clever stuff.

The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3253258. ftv.com

ValleyDez

At the new Sunset Mall on Beach Road, ValleyDez stocks the likes of Betsey Johnson, Sass & Bide and Nicole Ritchie’s label House of Harlow, attracting Dubai’s edgy fash-pack. The new store is full of pieces to transform your look, with both international and regional designers represented.

Sunset Mall, Beach Road, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3242883. valleydez.com

Hamac

The place to head if you’re planning a beach trip, Hamac sells classic and customised Havaianas, swimwear from Vilebrequin and Cia Maritima, Ecua Andino panama hats and all manner of sand-friendly accessories.

Ibn Battuta Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2329661. hamacdubai.com

NEW YEAR, NEW PANTS

Start 2012 with some new undercrackers. Taking inspiration from DC Comic superheroes (and villains), Diesel’s new collection lets you choose from Batman boxers, Joker jockeys and more. Aquaman and Mr Freeze are strangely absent from the line-up.

Diesel, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, Dhs190. Tel: (04) 3411395. diesel.com

glambox.me

48 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

The online vintage designer shop

NEWS FLASH

Flavours has launched, and our wallets are quivering in fear. The latest UAE-based online store, it sells preowned and vintage designer goodies – that are 100 per cent authenticated by experts – so you can track down discontinued lines and hunt for bargains.

flavoursonline.com

Festival fever

Dubai Shopping Festival is here again, with late-night store openings, huge prizes to be won, crazy sales and all sorts of entertainment happening across the city. We’ll be there, with pointy elbows at the ready.

Jan 5 to Feb 5. dubaishoppingfestival.com

12 lucky winners in the spotlight

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This year’s awards ceremony takes place at Emirates Palace on Monday 23 January.

To purchase your all-inclusive ticket, visit

WHAT’S ON

MIND & BODY The inside scoop on health and well-being in the UAE

p52 HOW TO SPOT A PSYCHOPATH · p54 NEWS JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 51

How to

spot a

psychopath

Have you ever met a psychopath?

How would you know for sure?

52 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

P

sychopaths (or sociopaths, as some experts prefer to call them) are, apparently, everywhere. Not just the subject of horror films – liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti, anyone? – research shows that they head global companies and are in positions of serious power. Gulp.

Jon Ronson, investigative journalist and author of The Men Who Stare At Goats, wanted to learn more, meet some psychopaths and to start drawing his own conclusions. What started as a meandering into mental illness turned into a journey through the corridors of power, equipped with a list of key characteristics displayed by sociopaths…

MIND & BODY You attended a three-day course by psychologist Dr Robert Hare on how to identify psychopaths. He’s the man who created the 20-point checklist and claims one in 100 people is a psychopath. Would you agree with the statistic?

I guess so. It still instinctively feels a lot to me. When you meet a psychopath, which I have a number of times, they stick out like a sore thumb. I was at a legal conference in Paris this year and there were an awful lot of people there who displayed a lot of psychopathic traits, and I get the feeling that there a lot of people in the legal profession, especially barristers, who are psychopaths.

But when you meet a really full blown one, who displays loads and loads characteristics from the checklist, you know they’re different from other people and that’s where I feel a but unsure about the one in a 100 figure.

So they don’t walk around wielding knives? What should we look for?

There are lots of verbal and nonverbal clues, but they are invisible to most of us. Many psychopaths are very high functioning professionals working in business and politics.

Dressing very smartly, like Tony, an inmate I met in Broadmoor Prison in the UK, shows signs of superficial charm, the first point on the checklist. Being cunning, manipulative or prone to compulsive lying are all red flags, as is having a lack of human empathy. All of these personality traits can serve you very well if you want to be in power. This is the madness that makes the world go round. And psychopathic men outnumber psychopathic women, it seems.

Once we know what to look for, will we see sociopaths everywhere?

Yes. It’s terribly dangerous to start shoving the label onto people. There’s one person, who I’m actually very fond of, who I became convinced was a psychopath and I never told her. Now I realise she wasn’t, and know I was completely drunk with power. I do have a rule where I only start psychopath spotting when I’m actually in a room with somebody, rather than watching them on TV. Hare believes that cities, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are hotbeds for psychopaths.

There’s a need for stimulation. You’re not going to find any farmer who's a psychopath.

They want big houses and money, and they are attracted by certain industries like asset stripping and finance where it’s about a short-term quick kill. I met an asset stripper called Al Dunlap who sat below a giant oil painting of himself – which demonstrated a

JON RONSON

but it shouldn’t be at all, they have employees who get bonuses if they can find ways in the small print to deny claims and transplants.

It’s life and death. grandiose sense of self worth, another point on the checklist – and said “Life should be a roller-coaster not a merry go round”.

It seems there are a lot of successful people in power who have worrying traits.

You could argue that Rupert Murdoch is a psychopath. I don’t know if he is or not. What I do know is Harold Evans, who worked with him, said he has cold, dead eyes. But if he is a psychopath, it obviously doesn’t mean that everyone who worked at News International with him was too. A powerful, charismatic person can manipulate an entire structure.

"Beingcunning, cunning, Being manipulative or manipulative orprone to compulsive lying prone to are all red flags, as compulsive lying are is having a lack of all red flags, as is havhuman empathy" You have said that [the writer and critic] AA Gill may display some key characteristics.

I’m just glad to find a way to annoy AA! Can having psychopaths in power ever be useful for society?

There’s a book coming out this year called The Wisdom Of Psychopaths, which is supposed to address that very question. I’m not 100 per cent convinced that you can learn from them.

I think psychopathy tends to be malevolent and self-serving. In the health insurance industry, and I know this sounds surprising

What if you read the checklist and are worried you’re a psychopath?

If you have a conscience about these things, and you start searching your conscience, it means you’re OK. I’ve been surprised by how many people have told me they’ve read the book and are now concerned they might be a psychopath. I never thought that for a second because I am so NOT a psychopath. I can’t imagine there are loads of people secretly worried they might be.

The Psychopath Test, now available in paperback. jonronson.com

How to spot a psychopath 01 Glibness/superficial charm 02 Grandiose sense of self-worth 03 Need for stimulation and proneness to boredom 04 Pathological lying 05 Cunning/manipulative 06 Lack of remorse or guilt 07 Shallow affect 08 Callous. Lack of empathy 09 Parasitic lifestyle 10 Poor behavioural controls 11 Promiscuous sexual behaviour 12 Early behaviour problems 13 Lack of realistic, long-term plans 14 Impulsivity 15 Irresponsibility 16 Failure to accept responsibility for own actions 17 Many short-term relationships 18 Juvenile delinquency 19 Revocation of conditional release 20 Criminal versatility JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 53

MIND & BODY

BODY AND SOUL

News, reviews, deals and discounts from the world of well-being

Yoga in the desert Traditional Thai Massage As if the silent dunes weren’t peaceful at Grand Bliss Relaxology enough, Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is now offering early morning yoga.

Overseen by one of yoga guru Bharat Thakur’s most senior trainers, the sessions will take place by the pool at 7.30am, combining stretching, sun salutations, breathing techniques and meditation to appeal to all fitness levels.

Al Maha Desert & Spa, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai, Dhs200.

Tel: (04) 8329900. al-maha.com

TREATMENT OF THE MONTH

We love a relaxing aromatherapy rub-down as much as the next sensitive soul, but sometimes the effects of a softly-softly massage last as long as box of cupcakes in the What’s On office (that’s approximately 15 seconds).

To truly get the knots out you need to don some cotton pyjamas and let a 60-year-old Thai woman twist you like a pretzel, crack your back and send you out the door with a slightly dazed expression on your face. Grand Bliss Relaxology’s massages are very easy on the wallet and work a treat.

Granted, it’s not as five-star as many UAE spas, but if you want results on a budget, this is the place to go.

Al Wasl Road, Dubai, 9am to midnight, Dhs190 for an hour. Tel: (04) 3493490

Free haircuts

Is looking after the dirhams top of your resolution list? Formul’A Hairdressing Academy is making your budget a little easier to stick to, by inviting you to have a free hair cut, colour or blow-dry by one of their trainees. Colour treatments start from Dhs50, but trims, restyles, cuts and blow-dries won’t cost you a fil.

Formul’A Hairdressing Academy, Block 11, Knowledge Village, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4380122. formula-academy.net

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54 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

SPA DEALS

JANUARY’S BEST TREATMENTS AT THE BEST PRICES

Tips & Toes LPG’s Cellu M6 machine is designed to help you shape up without breaking a sweat. Using roller motions, stubborn fat deposits and cellulite are targeted, helping to tone skin too.

Throughout January there’s a 25 per cent off all LPG courses.

Branches throughout the UAE. Tel: (04) 3990550. tipsntoeshaven.com

Amara Spa Amara Spa's Warm Up Special package includes a 60-minute volcanic hot stone massage, 30-minute Indian head massage, use of the gorgeous pool and wet spa facilities, plus dishes and drinks from the healthy menu. Usually Dhs790, the package costs Dhs670 until the end of the month.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 6021660.dubai. park.hyatt.com

ESPA FOR THE DIARY:

The Weight Loss Show We’re sure it’s no accident that the UAE’s annual weight-loss show takes place in January – most of you are no doubt embarking upon a new diet, fitness regime or frantically Googling “lose 20kg on the pie diet”. Sadly pies won’t help you lose the pounds, but this educational event should give you some fresh ideas for shaping up with seminars, workshops, exercise classes, cookery demonstrations and competitions.

Jan 27 and 28, Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 10am to 8pm, free. Tel: (04) 3678192. weightlossshow.ae

Treat your bloated bod to the Yas Detox treatment this month, and you’ll get a free ESPA Skin Booster Facial. The treatment includes skin brushing and exfoliation, a detoxifying body wrap, aromatherapy massage and scalp massage, plus use of the rooftop pool, relaxation suites and heat experiences, all for Dhs725.

Yas Viceroy, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Tel: (02) 6560862. viceroyhotelsand resorts.com

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WHAT’S ON

SPORT & OUTDOOR News, opinion, sport and adventure

p59 DIVING WITH SHARKS · p60 HOW TO OFF-ROAD · p61 ROUND-UP JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 57

WIN! WIN! WIN! A money-can’t-buy golf experience with the stars

To enter this fantastic competition, just e-mail

winwithwhatson@motivate.ae

WIN! A CHANCE TO COMPETE IN THE ABU DHABI PRO-AM WITH MATTEO MANASSERO We have teamed up with the ADTA and Golf In Abu Dhabi to offer What’s On readers an experience that money can’t buy. The winner of this sensational prize will: • Play the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship Pro-Am with teenage golf sensation, Matteo Manassero, already a two-time European Tour winner at just 18 years of age.

• Bring a partner to mingle with the biggest stars in golf at the Championship Pro-Am cocktail reception and prize-giving • Receive one night’s accommodation for two at the stunning Emirates Palace hotel on January 25.

58 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

• Receive two VIP hospitality passes to the ADTA chalet for round one of the Championship, on January 26. For your chance to win, e-mail winwithwhatson@motivate.ae with ‘GOLF’ in the subject line, plus your contact details and the correct answer to this question: In golf, what’s an eagle? a) One under par b) Two under par c) Three under par Terms and conditions: To enter, you must have a golf handicap of 24 or below

with ‘GOLF‘ in the subject line and the correct answer to the question

SPORT & OUTDOOR

What’s On learns…

How to off-road In a desert land full of 4x4s, why are so many of us staying on the tarmac? Deputy Editor Helen Spearman treated her much-neglected car to a day in the dunes – with some expert help, of course

Y

ou want to keep your thumbs outside of the steering wheel,” Adam Cook instructs, looking imposing in his khaki trousers and Oakley shades.

“In case they snap off when I’m going fast?” I ask nervously. He nods firmly. Gotcha. Thumbs out.

I’m rather fond of mine (they’re opposable and everything).

Adam has been teaching wannabe explorers and experienced drivers how to conquer the dunes for over 30 years, and as a rally racer, car enthusiast and offroading expert, I’m in safe hands.

My Pajero, however, is in my hands, the poor thing.

Confession time – I’m not a great driver. So when it came to buying a car once I arrived in the UAE, it was agreed by all (me, my parents, the insurance company…) that the more metal that was around me the better. And where else in the world could I afford to fill up a 3.8 litre engine? So a Pajero it was – the smaller, three-door option, because

our small convoy heads down the Al Awir Road to Big Red, a giant dune popular with tour companies and quad bikers (so it’s sadly littered with rubbish), surrounded by tracks perfect for a beginner. If you don’t have your own 4x4, you can learn in one of Nomad’s many FJs. Tyres deflated to increase surface area on the sands, I’m talked through my car, covering its capabilities, and given some basic instructions. Drive straight up and down the dunes, keep momentum, avoid sudden braking (you’ll sink), and keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front. And we’re off, bouncing over the sand, following the tracks and cheekily veering off onto untouched sand, with Adam coaching me while staying in touch with the other driver via walkieI’m not great at parking either. And talkie. We’re adventurers, I’m Lauren Of Arabia; I’m not scared and loving we have been very happy together. every moment of it. Who knew my But there has been a niggle of car could do this with a flick of a late – the four-wheel gear stick switch? has remained untouched, people “You’re going a bit fast,” Adam have been asking if I ever take my warns, as I fly over a dune in car into the desert, and I’ve had a nagging feeling that the boot should gung-ho style. When he explains the dangers of too much speed, it’s be filled with camping equipment, clear why the last thing you want ropes and shovels, instead of is a lack of control if you come beach towels, shoes and CDs that over the ridge to find a car, camel I’ll never put in the changer. The

“I’ve had a feeling that the boot should be filled with camping equipment and ropes instead of towels, shoes and CDs” truth of the matter is I’ve been a bit scared to take the leap from Sheikh Zayed Road to the desert.

Adam’s company, Nomad, is used to such self-doubt. After meeting him, his fellow instructor and their FJ Cruiser near Dragon Mart,

or campsite on the other side. By some small miracle (OK, Adam’s coaching) we don’t get stuck, but in case it happens in the future, he explains the best ways to get your car out. After a matter of hours my experience has gone from zero to

driving hero (self-confessed), my confidence boosted no end, and I’ve learnt a lot about my car, too. The beauty of the desert, the boundless opportunities for exploring the UAE and the number of my friends who also have a 4x4 that has never seen the sands mean that weekends could include some serious off-road action. I’d better buy a shovel.

Nomad Off-Road Academy, one-day course Dhs750, five-day course (days don’t have to be consecutive) Dhs2,500. Tel: (04) 4502429. nomad4x4.com

OFFROAD RULES 1 Travel in groups of two vehicles or more – never go into the desert alone 2 Always bring back what you take. Keep the desert clean 3 Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Provide GPS points if possible 4 Take a basic supply of tools and gear 5 Know your 4x4, make sure it’s serviced, has the right tyres and a full tank

WHAT YOU’LL NEED 1 First aid kit 2 Water and food (take more water than you think you’ll need) 3 Full size spare tyre and repair kit, plus jack and tyre iron 4 Tow straps and shackles 5 Air compressor, air hose, pressure gauge and deflators 6 Basic tool kit, plus shovel and spare key 7 Sand tracks JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 59

SPORT & OUTDOOR

Shark diving Not one to scare easily, our man Matt pulls on his flippers and squares up to a tank full of sharks

big shark

danger Matt

T

rawl through any of the countless online bucket lists or classic ‘things to do before you die’ magazine features, and one activity is always near the top spot – diving with sharks.

It’s all well and good dreaming away your time at work [eh? – Ed], but most of us are put off by the logistical chaos that comes with jetting off to the Great Barrier Reef, learning to dive and then mustering up the guts to actually jump into the water with Jaws and his buddies.

That lad’s huge! If only there was an easier way…

Hang on a mo – didn’t Dubai go through an ‘aquarium phase’ not so long ago? There must be more sharks here in the UAE than you could shake a snorkel at. So, one quick phone call to The Atlantis Hotel’s Lost Chambers later, and I was set – keep your Barrier Reef, I was on 60 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

my way to become willing (ish), and live (for now), shark bait right here in the Emirates.

DIVING LICENCE With a nervous smile on my face and a slight tremble in my knees, I’m led to the 11.5 millionlitre tank, where my gear was waiting for me. Seconds later, an enormous stingray swim inches away from the edge where my mask and flippers are perched – instantly my smile turns into a full on quivering upper lip, and the tremble in the knees becomes a churning sense of dread in the pit of my stomach.

It’s important to note that to be eligible to dive with the big fish you have to be a qualified diver.

Luckily, I am, but if you are not then worry not, you can do a basic PADI Open Water course at the Atlantis Dive Centre (from Dhs1,550), as well as a number of other places in the UAE.

was, a feeling seemingly shared by the fish themselves.

Immediately the fear is replaced by wonder, as you can’t stop yourself turning every which way trying to take all of it in.

We follow the current clockwise and swim with everything from friendly electric blue fish to beasts the size of shopping trolleys, even stopping to wave at the people on the other side of the glass watching us in awe.

I turn to look at my diving buddy, who is looking directly at me with his hand on his head, simulating a fin. I think back to my diving lessons all those years ago, and the penny drops – that is the symbol for ‘shark’.

This is it – the pay off.

I slowly turn around and there it is, swimming no more than a metre from my face, a six-foot Grey Reef shark. I like to imagine that it thought twice about messing with me and swam away – the truth is, it probably didn’t even notice I was there. I could have taken him. Turns out sharks aren’t scary at all.

“Swimming no more than a metre from my face is a six-foot Reef shark” THE DESCENT Suited up, I sign a form that essentially gives the sharks free reign to use me as an underwater volleyball, before I offer myself up as an all-you-can-eat buffet.

We’re lowered into the water, run through the necessary safety hand signals, and do a final check that the equipment is working – I wouldn’t have even noticed the school of fish the size of my head swimming past me if I hadn’t clocked the wide-eyed looks from tourists looking on. And down we go…

UNDERWATER Sinking into a tank shared by 65,000 marine animals may sound intimidating, but I was generally shocked at how at ease I

VERDICT Well, that’s my bucket list started, and straight in at the top. And having dived with over 65,000 different species and come faceto-face with a shark, I now see why it’s on there – it’s easily one of the most eye-opening days out I’ve ever had. What’s next?

Ultimate Dive Experience, The Lost Chambers, Atlantis Hotel, The Palm, Dubai, 5.45pm to 10pm, Dhs2,500. Tel: (04) 4261030. atlantisthepalm.com

THE ROUND-UP

SPORT & OUTDOOR

Sporting highlights to get 2012 off to a speedy start

Celebrity visitor

IRON MIKE

He may have made a fool of himself in The Hangover 2 (please don’t tell him we said that), but former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson is still a force to be reckoned with. Iron Mike jets into the UAE this month as the guest of honour at the World Arab Boxing Championships.

Once known as ‘the baddest man on the planet’, the retired Tyson will be ringside to watch the seven-fight competition held at Dubai Festival City. We will be sat as far away as possible.

New marathon course

Ready. Set. Go! It is all change at the Dubai Marathon this year, with a new route designed to make the annual race more interesting for runners. The starting point for the full course has been moved from the old Hard Rock Café to The Pavilion in Downtown Dubai, and will see the competitors run past local landmarks, including Burj Khalifa, The World Trade Centre and the huge UAE flag at Union House, before finishing up back at the Burj.

If the full route is too far, you can register for 10km and 3km.

Jan 27, Dubai Marathon, The Pavilion Downtown Dubai, Dubai, 7am, marathon Dhs440, 10km Dhs220, 3km Dhs55. Tel: (04) 4335669. dubaimarathon.org

Jan 21 and 22, Dubai Festival City, Dubai, Dhs300 to Dhs700, 7.30pm. Tel: (04) 213 6213. dubaifestivalcity.com

1/3 AD

Milan versus PSG If the names Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho and Alessandro Nesta mean anything to you, then you’re in luck because all three will soon be winging their way to the UAE. The three, of course, play for football giants AC Milan, who will be returning to the UAE for their annual winter training camp, and a friendly against the French side Paris Saint-Germain. Defending Serie A champions Milan are paying their third visit to the UAE, which will see them hold open training sessions at the Sheikh Rashid Stadium.

Jan 4, Sheikh Rashid Stadium, Al Nahda Street, Dubai, from Dhs100, 7.30pm.

Tel: (04) 3414353.

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 61

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WHAT’S ON

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE The gigs, the nights and all the latest news and reviews

p65 ARTIST OF THE MONTH · p67 PETE TONG · p68 CLUB DIARY JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 63

Music

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Wriggly

SCOTT

He’s the man who played tunes to a forgotten crowd, so with a new club night and an upcoming EP, What’s On caught up with the many monikered music maker to talk past, present and future

Y

ou may know him as DJ Solo (an alias he is about to retire), or as one of the forces behind the sadly departed Dubai hip hop/ funk night Freshly Laced and its successor, Dust. But Hollywood film director-referencing sonic scamp Wriggly Scott – aka English expat Neil Andrew – is determined to reinvent himself beyond constrictive monikers.

“I’ve never been a fan of the whole ‘DJ’ thing when it comes to names,” he explains. “When I moved to Dubai I had an alias, Hash Solo, that I had been using since I was 16 or 17, and it became shortened to DJ Solo.

It kind of stuck. When I coined that alias I was an artist, musician and DJ, not just a DJ. As DJ Solo I have become know as the guy who plays a certain brand of music and as I’ve met new people, and had new experiences, my tastes have evolved.”

Releasing a new track each

month in the lead up to his next EP, Names, due in March, Scott has been carving out a menacing furrow for his production in tunes like Hierarchy/Anarchy. The Emirates rays clearly don’t always brighten his studio.

“There are two sides to my music: one extremely sunny, and one quite dark. I’m not always

sure where I sit. It really depends on the day. Surroundings and situations have a massive impact on that. Anything creative, ultimately, is driven by emotions.”

Once that record sees the light of day, so to speak, Scott won’t be hanging around: he has more irons in the fire than a hyperactive blacksmith.

“I’m running Dust, at Trilogy, alongside Megadon Betamax and Mr Yeti. I’m planning to look into shows abroad. And after the EP, I’m planning to take a break from releasing music to experiment more in the studio and work on an individual live show.”

Look out, 2012. wrigglyscott.com JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 65

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to du air bai port

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Al Bustan rotana

Not just another beverage store, enjoy a sensory experience that conjures up images of cool, tranquil vineyards while you browse through our enviable selection of premium grape labels.

cargo village

GGICO metro station

casablancA road

The doors to the city’s 12th unparalleled African + Eastern store at the Le Méridien Dubai on Airport Road, Garhoud are now open!

to Garhoud bridge

Nightlife

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

IT’S ALL GONE PETE TONG...

The irony of veteran dance music tastemaker Pete Tong’s ongoing career arc is it couldn’t be further from the infamous rhyming slang his surname has inspired.

Surprisingly fresh-faced for 51, the British DJ, producer and all-round clubbing impresario continues to tour the globe, helm his revered BBC Radio 1 show in the UK and cross paths with the biggest names in the game.

He talked to What’s On ahead of his welcome return to the Emirates at Armani/Privé...

The UAE wasn’t even on the clubbing map when you began DJing. Did you envisage you might play places like the UAE when you started?

Certainly not. Our horizons back then stretched about 100 miles around London.

Now it’s more like 10,000.

What has been your best experience in the Emirates to date?

I like club situations rather than one-off events, so Trilogy has been my favourite in the past. However, the one on the beach [Barasti] was cool, too.

This date is at the Armani Hotel. Are you a brand disciple while shopping?

I love great design, which often comes from a great label, but I would never buy something just because of the name. Unless it was Apple!

So you won’t be dashing to the malls when you’re in town?

Sadly I’m in and out for a few hours, as I have to get back for my radio show [in the UK]. It’s

crazy, as I always get the most amazing hotel suites that you would happily stay in for days.

Or weeks.

Is your enthusiasm for discovering new music as strong as ever?

I’m obsessed with new music, which can make some gigs trickier than others. It’s always difficult to get the right balance and right vibe, but I keep trying.

In the mainstream press there seems to be a notion that clubbing has never quite been the force it was since the ‘superclub’ days. What’s your take on that?

Things go in different phases. People are certainly more attracted to special events and one-off or short-term situations at the moment, like the Warehouse Project in

Manchester. But proper music clubs are still very important. Without that we would be stuck musically. A great regular club is the only place risks are being taken.

You’ve held positions across the music industry: DJ, producer, radio presenter, journalist, A&R. Is there anything left to achieve?

I would still love to do more score production work in film. And ride my bike on the Tour De France route.

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

Learn piano, and Portuguese or Spanish.

Jan 12, Armani/Privé, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs150, ladies free. Tel: (04) 8883308. petetong.com JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 67

Club diary

This month’s clubbing highlights

WEEKLY ORIENTAL VIBES  CHIZEN Eclectic mix of world beats (also every Friday).

Marina Restaurant Pavilion, Level One, Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 8pm to midnight, free. Tel: (04) 2329077

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JANUARY NEW YEAR’S DAY PARTY  NASIMI BEACH Get 2012 off to a flyer with an allday beach blowout.

Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, 3pm to late, Dhs100, Dhs50 before 6pm, ladies free. Tel: (055) 2004321. atlantisthepalm.com

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JANUARY WEEKLY BEIRUT NIGHT LIFE  CINNABAR DJ Sam on the decks, plus live performances from Lebanese singer Rosario.

Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to 2.30pm, free.

Tel: (02) 6811900. hilton.com WEEKLY MADEMOISELLE  RARE THE PLACE Schooly D, David Craig, Marky B and more play the finest in funk, soul and disco.

Media Rotana Hotel, Tecom, Dubai, 9pm to late, free. Tel: (055) 3675501. rotana.com/mediarotana WEEKLY URBAN MA$HUP  ZINC Old and new school urban flavours from DJ Andy Swift and Rone Jaxx.

Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3311111. ichotelsgroup.com

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JANUARY WEEKLY

DJ CHICO  CIRQUE DU SOIR

After wowing London as a hip celeb hangout attracting the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio and Rihanna, Cirque Du Soir has landed in Dubai, touching down every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. One What’s On contributor told us it’s “the best party” he’d ever attended so we tracked down resident spinner DJ Chico to find out more...

How does Cirque Du Soir Dubai compare to the London version?

Cirque Du Soir Dubai actually uses regular performers from the London cast, and I myself am a resident in London. So you can expect spectacular circus acts – stilt walkers, contortionists, dancers, jugglers, drummers, sword swallowers, magicians, fire-eaters and more. A trip down the rabbit hole, Alice In Wonderland style. On the music front, disco-house and electro, with lots of surprises thrown in.

Could the Dubai version prove even more glamorous than its London counterpart?

The London night has a more edgy feel in design and sound, a bit more underground. Dubai as a city is a lot more glamorous and glitzy, and the design of the venue matches this.

Did you meet a lot of celebs at Cirque Du Soir London?

There are many stories I could tell you, but we pride ourselves on discretion and allowing our celebrity friends to enjoy themselves without being exposed.

How long have you been in Dubai?

Seven weeks and counting. Although I love London and it will always be my home, I’m staying here a while to fly the Cirque flag. I’m just starting to see all that the city has to offer, but I’m already a big fan.

Earlier in your career you DJ’ed at indoor snow slopes. Have you checked out Ski Dubai yet?

I’ve visited, but haven’t actually ridden it yet, though I intend to very soon. I can ski and snowboard but I like to do so leisurely to enjoy the scenery. I wouldn’t want to break a wrist.

Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10.30pm to 3am, free.

Tel: (04) 3324900. cirquedusoirdubai.com Dubai, 5pm to 9pm, free. Tel: (04) 4271000. mediaonehotel.com

WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL DJ NIGHT  PICK RELAX12 JANUARY Resident Chadphunk drops deep, WEEKLY soulful and funky house.

APERITIVO  MEDIA ONE Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Kickback poolside with laidback Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free. and down-tempo post-office sounds Tel: (02) 6545138. aloftabudhabi.com from rotating residents (Kristian Valdini Jan 5, Julian Jinx Jan 12, WEEKLY Andy Buchan Jan 19, TBC Jan 26).

AUDIOTONIC  SEA LOUNGE Media One Hotel, Media City, The residents kick off the WHAT’S ON

68 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

weekend with house delights beside the Arabian waters.

Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to 2pm, free. Tel: (056) 6037275. audiotonic.net

WEEKLY CABARET  RARE THE PLACE DJ Sam Farsio and DJ Sara Simonit and a cast of dancers, singers and artists bring vintage flair.

Media Rotana Hotel, Tecom, Dubai, 9pm to late, free. Tel: (04) 4350248. rotana.com/ mediarotana WEEKLY ULTRA FRIDAYS  88 ULTRA LOUNGE Deep and soulful beats from resident spinner DJ Phil.

Traders Hotel, Deira City Centre, Dubai, 6pm to late, free. Tel: (04) 2657288. shangri-la.com

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JANUARY

WHAT’S ON PICK

WEEKLY AL MAYA ISLAND BEACH PARTY  AL MAYA ISLAND & RESORT Jump on a boat to the island paradise for a day of sun, sea, sand and top-notch house music.

Al Maya Island & Resort, Al Maya Island, Abu Dhabi, midday to late, Dhs100, free for ladies until 2pm.

Tel: (02) 6677777 RESIDENTS  AUDIOTONIC Mr Mr and the AudioTonic crew bring the forward-thinking house to Friday nights (also Jan 20).

360º, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. audiotonic.net

WEEKLY VOODOO  RARE THE PLACE Frederick Stone leads you through WHAT’S ON a night of anti-commercial music PICK SLAMMIN BOYS  at this Baroque-inspired bar.

MUSTHAVESOUL Media Rotana Hotel, Tecom, Dubai, Four-legged British house lads, 9pm to late, free. Tel: (04) 4350248. aka Jamie Scahill and Mark Hogg, rotana.com/mediarotana hit Dubai.

360º, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, WEEKLY Dubai, 7pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) RESIDENTS  RELAX12 1076405. musthavesoul.com House beats and more from the

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE ever-reliable DJ Stew Magoo.

Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free. Tel: (02) 6545138. aloftabudhabi.com WEEKLY URBAN EDUCATION  PEARLS BAR Hip hop, R&B, dancehall and funk from Rone Jaxx, DJ Soulninja and Keith Dobbs.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 2.30am, free. Tel: (02) 509855. decadent.ae

Marco Polo Hotel, Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai, 7pm to late, free. Tel: (04) 2720000. marcopolohotel.net WEEKLY SO.BE  SEA LOUNGE Rone Jaxx and Cliff Townley soundtrack the sunset and into the night.

Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, 4pm to midnight, free.

Tel: (02) 6563500. decadent.ae

12 JANUARY

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WHAT’S ON

JANUARY

PICK

WEEKLY ECLECTIC CIRCLE  MUSTHAVESOUL The choicest classics and obscurities from underground disco to soundtracks and Motown.

360º, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. musthavesoul.com WEEKLY ISLAND VIBEZ PARTY  BEYOND EL RANCHO DJ Bee plays the hottest contemporary hits.

WEEKLY HISHAM ZAHRAM  AUDIO TONIC The Mood Music-approved Egyptian returns to the UAE (also Dubai on Jan 13) Sea Lounge, Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to 2pm, free. Tel: (056) 6037275.

360º, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. myspace.com/hzahran WHAT’S ON

PICK PETE TONG  ARMANI/PRIVÉ The veteran clubland tastemaker gets fashionable in Dubai.

Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs150, ladies free.

Tel: (04) 8883308. petetong.com

13 JANUARY

WINTER WONDERLAND FULL MOON PARTY  NASIMI BEACH Celebrate the season in the sun.

Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, 5pm to late, Dhs100, Dhs50 before 8pm, ladies free. Tel: (055) 2004321. atlantisthepalm.com STEP ON  CATWALK Indie and alternative hits from DJs ME and Rude Larry.

Golden Tulip, Al Barsha, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (050) 4649360. www.facebook.com/StepOnDubai

18 JANUARY

JEFF CORTEZ  THE YACHT CLUB Disco-house party-starters, plus live saxophonist and dance show (also Jan 19).

InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 9pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. jeff-cortez.com

WEEKLY

RESIDENTS  MUSTHAVESOUL

MustHaveSoul resident Conan Liquid (who plays Sea Lounge on Jan 6 and 27, as well appearing at MHS’s 360º nights in Dubai) picks his top five postfestive season blues-beaters...

1. Masters At Work feat. India – To Be In Love The combination of India’s voice, MAW’s beats

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JANUARY

and Gene Perez’s iconic bass-line is enough, but to have Vincent Montana dropping his science on the vibraphone…. too good.

2. Stevie Wonder – My Cherie Amour This is sublime. Not as intricate as his later tracks on albums like Innervisions or Songs In The Key Of Life, but a good classic pop song about love.

3. America – Ventura Highway The vocals are a bit out there, but then so was California circa early 1970s. Even if it’s raining and cold, this song makes it sunny.

4. Santogold – Lights Out Fantastic block-rocking jam from the enigmatic Santogold. It’s just one of those tracks that makes you want to clap and sing at the top of your voice.

5. The Smiths – This Charming Man I defy anyone to not dance around like a 1980s floppy-haired indie kid when the jangly Johnny Marr guitar riff kicks in.

Sea Lounge, Monte Carlo Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (02) 6563500. musthavesoul.com

19 JANUARY

RESIDENTS PARTY  MUSTHAVESOUL Dan Chadwick, Tristan Bain and Conan Liquid showcase the best soulful dance music.

360º, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 7pm to 2am, free. musthavesoul.com

26 JANUARY

SMOKINGROOVE  RELAX12 Celebrated house pioneers cue up their finest ones and twos.

Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free. Tel: (02) 6545138. aloftabudhabi.com

27 JANUARY

LOADED  CASA LATINA Indie and electro mash-ups, from a brand new DJ line-up.

Ibis Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (055) 8825675. facebook. com/seeyounextfriday

WHAT’S ON

PICK MARIO BASANOV  AUDIOTONIC Lithuanian house hot property ties together the loose ends of disco, broken beat and nu-jazz.

360º, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to 2am, free.

Tel: (050) 1076405. myspace. com/mariobasanovmusict

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 69

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

NEWS

News, reviews, deals and discounts to keep your social life buzzing

The London superbrands arrive The waiting is over, Mahiki and Mo*Vida have touched down in Dubai. So which one is for you?

DO YOU PREFER...

a) Champagne served in the VIP area? b) Cocktails served in a pineapple?

WHAT’S YOUR MUSIC TASTE?

a) The latest club hits and European house tracks b) Cheesy tunes and bongo drums

Mo*Vida

WHO IS YOUR CELEB ICON?

a) Frank Lampard b) Prince Harry

WHERE IS YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY DESTINATION?

a) Somewhere super chic like St Tropez b) Somewhere Polynesian

WOULD YOU RATHER…

Mahiki

NEW OPENING OF THE MONTH

The Living Room Like cheese? Like wine? Like even more cheese?

Join the club. Actually, there is no official club, but there is a new bar that caters to your good taste. The Living Room offers a cheese menu that changes on a weekly basis, with some seriously good vintages (and cocktails) to complete the evening, and four distinct lounges vying for your reclining attention.

Grand Hyatt Dubai, Oud Metha, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3171234. hyatt.com

FIVE COCKTAILS FOR DHS88 Drink deals are rife mid-week, but bars and restaurants offering bargains come Thursday and Friday have a special place in our (penny pinching) hearts, which is why we’ll be heading to Chi’Zen this weekend. There’s a live DJ, Far Eastern cuisine and you’ll receive change from Dhs100 for five cocktails. That’s more than enough for two shawarmas on your way home. Stop judging us.

Chi’Zen, Dubai Festival City, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 2329077. landmarkgroupme.com 70 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

a) See and be seen? b) Party, party, party?

Mostly As: Join the WAGs, socialites and scenesters at Mo*Vida. Royal Radisson Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3080000. movida-london.com Mostly Bs: Break out the Tiki torches and head to Mahiki for good times.

Jumeriah Beach Hotel, Al Sufouh, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3807731. mahiki.ae

The new generation of ladies’ nights If you’ve become such a regular at your local ladies night that you keep a stash of business cards behind the bar (slap on the wrist) then check out our top three new nights

NO. 5 LOUNGE & BAR

arrival. We’re hoping it’s a bag of mini Mars bars.

Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Dubai, 8pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3722323. ritzcarlton.com

Free drinks at the Ritz? Oh yes. Ideal for DIFC workers, Tuesdays see ladies enjoying complimentary cocktails from a special RARE menu, with the promise of Tecom’s newest club is a surprise ‘sweet treat’ upon tempting the fairer sex

with that magical combo of music and free drinks.

DJs including Schooly from Radio 1, David Craig, Marky B and Mark Pickup spin the tunes while ladies indulge at the baroque-inspired bar fro 9pm to 11pm.

Media Rotana Hotel, Tecom, Dubai, 9pm to late.

Tel: (04) 3675501. rotana.com

LIPSTICK LAUGHTER

Rare

Cocktails cost a mere Dhs10 each for four hours at the recently revamped Mafraq Hotel, with Mr Mixologist taking care of the music.

Hunters B&R, Mafraq Hotel, Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 6596666. mafraqhotel.com

3 men, 7 camels, 1,600 km, 66 days In December 2011, Adrian Hayes, Saeed Al Mesafri and Ghafan Al Jabri reached Abu Dhabi having followed Wilfred Thesiger's Footsteps across the Empty Quarter.

Inspired by Thesiger's Classic Book, Arabian Sands, the team covered more than 1600km with their camels.

Along the way they experienced true Arabian hospitality and were told countless stories of Thesiger's original crossings.

presented by

An epic recreation of Wilfred Thesiger’s Empty Quarter Journey

w w w. f o o t s t e p s o f t h e s i g e r. co m For information regarding Footsteps of Thesiger Expedition presentations and speaking engagements, please contact Emma Kettle on emma@profsports.com

Official Partners

Organiser & Media Management

WHAT’S ON

TRAVEL

Destinations, insider tips, deals and news

p74 NORTHERN CYPRUS · p76 GOURMET TRAVELLER · p78 TRAVEL EXTRA JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 73

TRAVEL

NORTHERN CYPRUS

Fancy exploring Cyprus but put off by the prospect of noisy, over-developed resorts? Then set course for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus – still a state not officially recognised by the international community, but now starting to emerge as a Mediterranean destination with a sleepy, friendly and, generally, unspoilt charm Kyrenia Town

Kyrenia – or Girne, to give it its Turkish name – is the main town on the northern coast, and has much to offer visitors.

It’s lively, yet not particularly overdeveloped. The rustic, 74 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

crescent-shaped old harbour is the main draw, and having dinner or drinks in its sweep of small restaurants and taverns, with their seating spilling out onto the pavement and strains of live Turkish music filling the

night air, is a must. A visit to the Venetian-built Kyrenia Castle, which dominates the skyline at one end of the bay, should also be on the itinerary – fans of gore will enjoy the slightly macabre dungeons, complete with waxwork torture victims.

Old Cyprus

Some fascinating ancient attractions are the legacy of a history influenced by all kinds of visitors (some friendly, but often without invitation), from the Byzantine through to the British.

Head to Bellapais Abbey, particularly when a classical music concert is being staged during the Bellapais Festival in May and June. The well-

preserved remains of this 13th century French-order monastery complement the red-roofed houses of the lofty Bellapais village, and look particularly magnificent at night when the floodlights give an ethereal glow.

A few kilometres away, dramatically located on top of the mountains that form a natural division between the north shore and the rest of the island, are the sprawling remains of the Byzantine St Hilarion Castle.

While the claim that it inspired the famous Disney Sleeping Beauty castle is spurious at best (a couple of places in Germany and France make more credible cases), the remnants are intact enough to quickly conjure up

TRAVEL images of an impressive medieval fairytale-like castle, and the views back across the Med to mainland Turkey are indeed magical. Bring sturdy shoes and a bottle of water though, as there’s a fair bit of scrambling up steep steps to be done – meaning it’s not for those with vertigo, either.

NEED TO KNOW FLIGHTS Turkish Airlines flies from Dubai to Ercan (Northern Cyprus), via Istanbul, from Dhs2,400. hy.com

The great outdoors

WHERE TO STAY

There are numerous hiking trails throughout the Kyrenia range’s 160km, and the hills boast 17 unique varieties of orchids, as well as hosting dozens of species of migratory birds. And at various beaches along this quiet northern coastline, loggerhead turtles can still be viewed making their seasonal nesting grounds. The bays closest to Kyrenia is Alagadi, which attracts sunbathers as well as reptiles.

Offshore, the diving has a good reputation, with a number of wreck sites to investigate.

Lapida Hotel: lapidahotel.com Bellapais Gardens: bellapaisgardens.com The Colony: parkheritage.com Korineum Golf & Coutnry Club: korineumgolf.com

“At various beaches along the quiet coastline, loggerhead turtles can be viewed nesting”

Lapida Hotel

The family-run Lapida Hotel is a beautiful country retreat on the slopes of the Kyrenia mountain range, overlooking the Mediterranean. With only 11 bedrooms, it’s an intimate place to stay, and a good base for exploring the mountains’ natural attractions – hikers, birdwatchers, and orchid-hunters are often counted amongst its guests.

The food is the other big draw here – most of the ingredients are grown organically in the hotel’s bountiful gardens. Be sure to have a good look at the citrus orchard, where owner Fethi Ozbogac indulges in the art of ‘grafting’ – fusing the branches of one fruit tree on to another.

Oranges and lemons grow off the same trunk, to take advantage of the stronger roots of lemon trees.

Food is cooked traditionally here; tender kleftikos (wrapped lamb and chicken) are cooked for several hours in an outdoor clay oven, sealed shut by earth to ensure an extremely high temperature, while Fethi’s mother also gives cooking demonstrations to guests, showing how to make dishes such as borek (haloumi-filled pastries) and cicek dolma (stuffed

courgette flowers) the local way.

Tel: (+90) 533 8621500. lapidahotel.com

Bellapais Gardens

Situated in the romantic mountainside village of Bellapais, famously home to the author Lawrence Durrell in the 1950s, this compact luxury hotel and restaurant features a fantastic view across the green pine and cypresscovered slopes towards the coast.

There are 17 well-appointed rooms and a restaurant that has attracted the likes of Sir Richard Branson to drop by for dinner – the chefs are evidently doing something right. There’s an outdoor pool too, for guests to relax against the backdrop of the character-filled Bellapais Abbey, which rises majestically above the hotel.

Bellapais. Tel: (+90) 392 8156066. bellapaisgardens.com

The Colony

At the other end of the scale from intimate village retreats is The Colony, a 94-room hotel in the town of Kyrenia. It’s billed as fivestar and caters well for the package market. The main restaurant does buffet well enough, and the rooftop pool offers good views of the mountains on one side and sea (a better vista than many of the rooms on the floors below, which look out on to other buildings).

It’s not on the beach, but offers a shuttle bus to a shared beach club.

Clean and comfortable, but lacking the charm of Lapida or Bellapais.

Tel: (+90) 392 8151518. parkheritage.com

Korineum Golf & Country Club

Golfers, and those who like a slice of luxury on their sunshine break, should make this their base. Around 12km east along the coast from Kyrenia, it has 48 rooms and suites, two restaurants and bars, and a spa.

You don’t have to be a golfer to stay here, but if you do like to play the game then the pristine Championship course won’t disappoint – there are a couple of stunning cliff-edge holes that look like something straight out of Wii Sports Resort.

Tel: (+90) 392 6001515. korineumgolf.com JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 75

TRAVEL

Gourmet traveller Food and travel are abiding passions for the Middle East Chairman of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants judging panel, James Brennan.This month he shares his enthusiasm for carp from Baghdad Broadly speaking, there are two types of food traveller: the intrepid, and everybody else.

If you’re hell-bent on scaling the north face of the Eiger just to taste the eggs of a rare breed of man-eating devil bird, then you can consider yourself in the former camp. Most of us will settle for anywhere with a Burger King.

But in the Middle East there’s a delicacy that both types of traveller can enjoy without leaving their respective comfort zones. It’s called masquf, it’s roasted carp and it’s found in Baghdad.

Whoosh! Most of you have disappeared behind the sofa.

Amongst the remainder there’s one man who had his pinkie cut off by the Yakuza for being

disrespectful to a maki roll in Osaka, and a woman who was poked in the eye by a gorilla while foraging for wild herbs in Rwanda. They must be the intrepid ones, so the next two paragraphs are for them.

Yeah, Baghdad’s pretty dangerous. Big chance of being ripped apart there. Especially if you’re a river carp. To make masquf, a live fish is bludgeoned over the head with a blunt instrument before being sliced down its back and opened up like a get well soon card. It’s then skewered on sticks driven into the ground next to an open fire and barbecued to a state of near-burnt crispness. Al Qaeda is kinder to its foes.

Masquf can be found on the banks of the River Tigris,

in the parks alongside Abu Nawas, once one of Baghdad’s grand old boulevards. The area has undergone considerable regeneration in the last few years so people can enjoy the centuries-old ritual of eating masquf in the open-air with blushing tomatoes, lemon juice and freshly baked flatbread. Al Rafidain (al-rafidain.com) is a reputable tour company that will make it happen for you if Baghdad is on your bucket-list of places to see before (rather than while) you die.

The rest of us lily-livered

lot can enjoy the wonders of masquf in Amman, Jordan.

There’s a superb Iraqi restaurant there called Zad El Khair (zadelkhair.com), which has been a favourite of the city’s Iraqi community for years.

There you can choose your fish from a tank, and they’ll spare you the sight of the fish being beaten up, eviscerated and mercilessly spatchcocked.

The end product is pretty much the same, smoky, moist, crisp and delicious, though rather more expensive and lacking in explosions.

HOTEL OF THE MONTH PAPAYA PLAYA PROJECT Pop up restaurants and galleries are all the rage in Europe and the US, and now Design Hotels (designhotels.com) has gone one step further and created a pop up resort that will open for just six months, from December 6, 2011 to May 5, 2012. Papaya Playa Project is an oceanfront resort on the Caribbean coast PREVIEW of the Mayan Riviera in Tulum, Mexico. Just 75 minutes from Cancun International Airport, it boasts 99 cabanas, ranging from a five-bedroom private house to a basic wooden hut with a sand floor. But it doesn’t stop there, the restaurant, KaterHolzig, will be run by the head chef from Berlin’s famous Bar 25 (bar25. de), the Papaya Recording Studio will play host to international DJs and musicians and events will be arranged by creative agency Mamapapacola (mamapapacola.com). To add to that, the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is close by and the Mayan Riviera is the second largest barrier reef in the world. Now that’s a resort.

Until May 5, 2012, Papaya Playa Project, Tulum, Mexico, US$25 (Dhs92) to US$675 (Dhs2,480). Tel: (+49) 30884940940. papayaplayaproject.com 76 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

TRAVEL

EXTRA

ADVICE, DEALS AND OTHER TASTY TRAVEL TIDBITS

Travels with...

Simon Lelic As his new thriller, The Child Who, hits UAE shelves, Simon Lelic takes a rest from writing to discuss his love of hotels and his dislike of Austria How important is travelling to you?

I love to travel. My wife and I don’t travel these days in quite the same way we did before we had kids, but two or three times a year, if we can, we go somewhere. Ideally, a place we’ve never been before. But even weekends away are a thrill for me. I love hotels. I doubly love hotel bars. What better place could there be for a writer to take a perch?

What is the best holiday you have ever been on?

In 2003 my wife and I flew out to Australia to see my sister and her partner. We based ourselves in Brisbane but had the insider’s tour of both the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, in weather 30 degrees better than we’d left behind at

Heathrow. In second place, but not by much, was a trip with the kids and some friends last year to Antigua. Our friends got married – with just us and our two boys on their veranda. It was quite a privilege.

What is your biggest travel disaster?

Austria. That’s all I’m saying.

If you can advise people to visit one destination, where would it be?

It has to be Slovenia, the country my father is from and the place I have spent at least a portion of every summer since I was a boy.

Beautiful, friendly, perfectly formed. Like all the best bits of Italy, served up with better beer. But go soon: the secret is out.

What are your tips for surviving a long stopover?

If you have children, avoid them – the stopovers, I mean. Otherwise, grab a corner on the floor somewhere – forget the chairs – and settle down with a good book.

What do you never travel without?

Books, predictably enough. Also, some form of confectionery.

The Child Who is available from Magrudy’s, Borders, Jashanmal and Kinokuniya

Travel news and international deals ST MORITZ POLO WORLD CUP ON SNOW Polo? In winter? On ice? Are we mad? No we’re not. The St Moritz Polo World Cup On Snow is played on the frozen surface of St Moritz Lake in January, and you could see it, if you have the readies. The Carlton Hotel is offering four nights in a double room, two tickets to the tournament, dinner at Romanoff restaurant, a full body massage and butler service for CHF2,480 (Dhs10,000) per person.

Go on, splash out, it’s 2012.

Jan 26 to 30, The Carlton 78 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

Hotel, St Moritz, Switzerland, CHF2,480 per person (Dhs10,000). Tel: (+41) 813789999. carlton-stmoritz.ch APP OF THE MONTH Next Flight 3.0 We’ve missed a few flights in our time, and had airlines cancel our flights without notifying us on numerous occasions. Next Flight is designed to save the day, providing a list of all available flights for 1,200 airlines operating out of 4,300 airports worldwide. Useful.

Available for: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad Price: US$2.99 (Dhs11)

THE STAMP COLLECTOR Open Skies editor and passport stamp collector Conor Purcell answers your travel dilemmas I’m looking to do quite a bit of travelling in 2012, but I like to stick to cities. I’ve done all the obvious ones in Europe and Asia – where should I visit? Barnaby, Mirdif

Well, that’s the great thing about cities – there are lots of them. I’ll be lazy and stick to the two continents you mentioned. First, Europe. Belgrade is wonderful; so beautiful you will wonder why you have never been before, and after a few days wandering its narrow streets you will understand: no one wants to share this Adriatic secret. Even better, Fly Dubai is now flying direct. Two other European favourites are Vienna and Naples. Both very different places, but equally enthralling. Now for Asia. Closer to home, check out Almaty, a charming Central Asian capital, ringed by beautiful mountains and containing a hot pot of cultures. Further afield, head to Seoul, a place that just gets better with each trip: fashion, food, hiking, nightlife – this city of more than 11 million has it all.

THE HOT LIST The best of the best

KEY

New entry Non-mover Up Down

p83 RESTAURANTS · p87 BARS · p91 BRUNCHES · p95 SPAS JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 81

Bahrain - Qatar - Saudi Arabia - UAE - Oman - Kuwait - Jordan - Lebanon www. maya-la-chocolaterie.com follow us www.twitter.com/maya_choco www.facebook.com/maya-la-chocolaterie

THE HOT LIST

RESTAURANTS Zuma

La Petite Maison

1

The elite of the eating out scene

Indego By Vineet

2

3

4

5

TABLE 9 BY NICK AND SCOTT

LA PETITE MAISON ZUMA

Atmosphere A trendy soundtrack, video screen and local artworks are the first steps towards banishing any memory of Gordon Ramsay.

Atmosphere We’ve seen everyone from sheikhs to fashionistas and foodies at LPM. It really does have the best buzz in town.

Atmosphere Even mid-week the bar/lounge is like a nightclub, whilst downstairs never has more than a couple of empty tables.

Atmosphere The Riv is never lacking custom, especially at the weekend. Its outdoor terrace has front row seats to the Dubai Mall fountains too.

Interior It hasn’t changed much since T9 replaced Verre, but we’ve been promised more amendments soon.

Interior A long cocktail bar, open kitchen, perfect lighting and well spaced tables.

Just right.

Interior Bright and buzzing downstairs, dark and banging upstairs.

Interior London chic, with white walls, neon lettering on the wall, an open kitchen and daily changing specials menus.

Food Just the kind of food we want to see more of in 2012. The most exciting menu in Dubai right now.

Location It’s in Deira, which, to be honest, probably isn’t where you live. We’ve made the journey in 20 minutes from the Marina. Trust us – it’s worth a 20-minute drive.

Price The seven-course tasting menu is Dhs450.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… You’re not a foodie if you haven’t dined at T9.

Hilton Dubai Creek, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 2271131. hilton.com

Food Order beef, lamb, fish or veg. They are all superb, and it is all seasonal.

Excellent wine list, too.

Location The ever-expanding restaurant hub that is DIFC. Price We'd be lying if we said it wasn't on the more expensive side of things, but Dhs1,000 should be able to cover a meal for two.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… It sounds clichéd, but everything really is superb at LPM. DIFC, Gate Village 8, Dubai, Sun to Fri noon to 2.30pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4390505. lpmdubai.ae

Food Chef Refai Bin Othman’s kitchen is always inventive. Just ask what’s new. You won’t be disappointed, we promise.

Location DIFC. Not far from its sister restaurant, LPM. Price If you haven’t spent Dhs1,000 on a meal for two, you’re doing it wrong.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… Zuma is a place to be seen, but it also serves the best Japanese food in Dubai.

Building 6, DIFC, Sat to Thurs 12.30pm to 3pm, Sat to Wed 7pm to midnight, Thurs and Fri 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 4255660. zumarestaurant.com

RIVINGTON GRILL INDEGO BY VINEET

Food We always go for at least one of the daily specials.

Location Book a table on the terrace overlooking the Dubai Fountain for Saturday roast.

Price Two can dine for less than Dhs500 without drinks, depending on what they order, of course.

Atmosphere Indego isn’t one of the city’s busiest restaurants, but it provides the perfect setting in which to enjoy the terrific food.

Interior Warm, welcoming and comfortable. Make sure you go outside and check out the terrace, though.

Food The most creative Indian food in Dubai is served up by the Vineet Bhatiatrained kitchen team.

Location Grosvenor House. Just downstairs from Gary Rhodes and just around the corner from Richard Sandoval in Tower Two. A celeb chef hub.

Price Dhs900 for two should just about cover it.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… This is one particular slice of London town we’re very glad they transported to Dubai.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… If we’re eating Indian, and it’s not takeaway, there’s a good chance we’re at Indego.

Souk Al Bahar, Level 3, Old Town, Dubai, noon to 7pm. Tel: (04) 4230903. rivingtongrill.ae

Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 7.30pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhousedubai.com JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 83

Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire

Okku

TRAITEUR

6

Atmosphere A very French balance is struck between casual and classy.

Interior One of the most impressive designs in Dubai, with an open kitchen and high, vaulted ceiling. But it’s all about being outside at this time of year.

Food Order What’s On Chef Of The Year Franck Detrait’s pumpkin and truffle risotto. You can’t go wrong with that.

Location Take a table at The Terrace for pre and postdinner drinks.

Price Dhs375 for the fourcourse degustation menu or around Dhs650 for two if you opt for a la carte.

8

9

Atmosphere It’s not always easy to secure a table at Okku, especially at the weekend.

Book ahead.

Atmosphere Reflets doesn’t pack them in, but its clientele is always excited and reverential.

Interior Dark, subterranean and sexy. Order a martini, put on something stylish (man) or sultry (woman) and enjoy.

Interior Purple chandeliers, purple carpet – you get the picture. It treads a fine and crazy line between camp and regal.

Atmosphere Gaucho seems to be doing well after just a month at DIFC. Time will tell if it can compete with Zuma and LPM.

Atmosphere A restaurant, a bar and a club, Richard Sandoval’s place is already popular with those who live in the Marina.

Interior There’s rather a lot of cowhide, but it works surprisingly well.

Interior Two giant floors, offering something for everybody – whether it’s food or a late night.

Food Okku has just introduced a deluge of new dishes to the menu and the kitchen has really stepped things up. Order the duck salad, baked king crab legs and veal short.

Food Inventive, surprising and delicious. If you eat at Reflets you have to do it properly. Three courses don’t do it justice.

OKKU

7

Gaucho

Location Number One Sheikh Zayed Road is a convenient location, wherever you live in Dubai.

Price You could eat well at Okku for under Dhs800.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… After a hectic week, we always rely on dinner at Traiteur to perk us up.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… A recent visit to Okku to try the new dishes really impressed us.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3172222. dubai.park.hyatt.com

The Monarch Dubai Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 5018777. okkudubai.com

HOT ON THE HEELS 11. Rhodes Twenty10, Le Royal Méridien 12. Asado – The Old Town, The Palace 13. The Ivy, Emirates Towers 14. Rhodes Mezzanine, Grosvenor House Dubai 15. Hakkasan, Emirates Towers

84 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

REFLETS PAR PIERRE GAGNAIRE GAUCHO

Location On its own private floor at the InterCon DFC. Naturally.

Price Lunch is Dhs180, or Dhs390 with wine pairings on Friday. Dinner is upward of Dhs1,000.

Food Order the rib-eye and ask sommelier Marina Diaz for an appropriate wine pairing.

Location DIFC, staring Zuma straight in the face with Latin chutzpah.

Price You could dine for less than Dhs650 for two without drinks, making it one of DIFC’s cheaper options.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… Book a table when Pierre is in town later this month.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… Choose your cut off a wooden board and ask about the wine room and the tastings.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City, DFC, Dubai, 7pm to 1am.

Tel: (04) 7011128. ichotelsgroup.com

Podium Level, Gate Village 5, DIFC, Dubai, Mon to Sun 11.30am to 11.30pm.

Tel: (04) 4227898. www. gauchorestaurants. co.uk

15

TORO TORO

10

Food Go for the small plates. We enjoyed the swordfish causa limena.

Location Grosvenor House Tower Two. Dubai Marina’s newest drinking and dining hotspot.

Price Make sure you have at least Dhs1,000 in your wallet if you’re paying for a pair.

WHAT’S ON SAYS… Pop on a suit, order a cocktail and book a table for around 9.30pm.

Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sat to Wed 7pm to 2am, Thurs and Fri 7pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhousedubai.com

HAKKASAN,EMIRATES TOWERS

Already a hit with Dubai’s jet-setting trendy crowd, Hakkasan is a welcome addition to Emirates Towers/ DIFC’s ever more impressive

restaurant portfolio.

Another giant global brand, and another instant must-visit restaurant. The large outdoor garden is seriously impressive, and open until two

in the morning.

Order the fried dim sum.

Emirates Towers, Dubai, noon to 3pm, 6pm to 2am.

Tel: (04) 3848484. hakkasan.com

calvinklein.com

watches

swiss made

THE HOT LIST

BARS

Jetty Lounge

360°

ZUMA

1

Atmosphere Cooler than a polar bear sipping a martini, with chic décor, charming staff and seriously stylish clientele. This isn’t the place for beach bums.

Location Zuma keeps DIFC’s finest well fed and watered. A number of hangouts in its ‘hood would do bad things to have its customers.

Best For Mingling in high style.

And the 2am licence is back. Hurrah.

Price Drinks aren’t cheap but cocktails are high quality and well priced. Treat yourself to some bar snacks, too.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

The creative cocktails, tunes from DJ Adrien and the oh-so-tasty bar snacks keep us coming back again and again.

Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, Fri to Wed noon to 2am, Thurs noon to 3am.

Tel: (04) 4255660. zumarestaurant.com

360°

2

JETTY LOUNGE

Barasti

3

Atmosphere One of Dubai’s most iconic bars, 360° is famed for its party atmosphere, Friday guest list and soulful Saturdays.

Atmosphere A lovely spot for postbrunch drinks, Jetty is sophisticated, chilled out and the ultimate in beach chic.

Location Surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, the views are spectacular and guaranteed to knock your socks off. We're pretty sure that James Bond would hang here.

Location Right on the beach at the original One&Only.

It’s a dreamy spot, complete with light-up seats and a very cool blue bar inside.

Best For Some of the best music the city has to offer, from visiting DJs to local talent, with the MustHaveSoul boys leading the charge.

Price It’s not cheap, but you get what you pay for and it's buy one get one free on Tuesdays.

Thumbs up.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Catch What's On editor DJ ME on Jan 7 and 14.

He might give you a wave.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Al Sufouh, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 5pm to 2am, Fri and Sat 4pm to 2am.

Tel: (04) 4068744. jumeirah.com

The finest for beverages and bites

Best For Sundowners, predinner drinks, romantic evenings, nights out en masse. Pretty much everything.

Price On the expensive side of things – even the snacks will raise eyebrows. A Pimms will set you back Dhs45, which is pretty brutal.

Stick to vino.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

It is all about sitting outside. Dare we say it, but take a jumper – it’s a bit chilly at the moment.

One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 2pm to late. Tel: (04) 3999999. oneandonlyresorts.com

BARASTI

4

LOCA

Atmosphere We prefer Barasti for a weekend lunch or Saturday evening drink, when the hoards are elsewhere – Friday nights there can be scary…

Location It’s a Dubai institution for its prime beachfront location, split-level bars and proximity to the Marina.

Best For It’s full of familiar faces, so make sure you’re feeling sociable. The fish ‘n’ chips are well worth ordering.

Price Surprisingly expensive considering its laid-back beach bar vibe, but the food is well-priced.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

We live in fear of being thrown in the pool.

Let's hope 2012 is another dunk-free year.

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 11am to 2am. Tel: (04) 3993333. lemeridienseyahi.com

5

Atmosphere Loca is unpretentious without being scruffy, which is a rare and welcome achievement in Dubai.

Location It loses points for not being on a beach, but then it wouldn’t have that industrial charm, now would it?

Best For Loca is ideal for group nights out when you can dominate a long table, but couples might get jostled about a bit. You can top up on some good Mexican grub, too.

Price Average, but don’t get carried away with the ‘serve yourself’ beer taps dotted around.

Enjoy now, pay later...

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

A genuinely cool bar in an unexpected spot, with the tunes to match.

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, noon to 2am.

Tel: (04) 3461111. dxbmarine.com

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 87

McGettigan’s

At.Mosphere

6

7

MCGETTIGAN’S

AT.MOSPHERE

Atmosphere Packed. As more people move into JLT, McG’s just gains in popularity. And it’s a good crowd, too.

Atmosphere This is the highest bar in the world, so expect some well-heeled lounge lizards. This place is particularly rammed on Wednesdays.

Location Situated at the Bonnington hotel, it has its own entrance so you don’t need to leave via a bright lobby. Always difficult after a night on the Guinness.

Best For The outdoor patio plays host to live music and visiting comedians, and there’s a quiz night.

Plenty going on.

Price Seriously hefty portions of good food at decent prices, and the drinks bill won’t make you wince, either.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

McGettigan’s received the gong for favourite pub grub at this year’s awards. Well deserved.

Bonnington Hotel, JLT, Dubai, 12.30pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3560470. bonningtontower.com

Location On the 122nd floor of the world’s tallest building. It doesn’t get much more glam than that. Warning – not ideal for vertigo sufferers.

Best For Taking guests for sundowners or to impress a date. The views over Old Town are simply staggering.

Price Grit your teeth, the bill will be a shocker.

Ladies enjoy two free glasses of bubbly on Wednesdays, though.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Celebs often stop by, so keep your autograph book handy. And a bank loan.

Burj Khalifa, Downtown, Dubai, noon to 1am.

Tel: (04) 8883828. atmosphereburjkhalifa.com

HOT ON THE HEELS 11. West Beach Bistro, Movenpick 12. Left Bank, Souk Al Bahar 13. Neos, The Address Downtown Dubai 14. Armani/Prive, Armani Hotel 15. Oeno, The Westin

88 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

Caramel

8

BELGIAN BEER CAFÉ

Atmosphere Consistently busy, with tables full of glasses and steaming pots of mussels.

The buzzy pub feel is exactly what you'd hope for in a Europeanstyle drinking hole.

Location One of the first dining and drinking spots in DFC, there’s a good choice of establishments nearby if you want to make a night of it.

Best For The view of the skyline, a cold drink and some moules frites and your worries will melt away.

Price There are drink and dinner deals through the week, but it can be on the expensive side otherwise.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

We’ve heard whispers of a new BBC in the Madinat...

Crowne Plaza Dubai, Festival City, Dubai, 7.30pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 7012222. intercontinental.com

12

CARAMEL

9

Atmosphere It’s a slick crowd, with DIFC types heading for a much-needed postoffice drink. Fridays are a bit quieter, though.

Location Another jewel in DIFC’s crown, Caramel is the quiet hangout to Zuma’s crazy night out.

Best For Great for a date, the lights are low, the food is good (try the mini burgers) and it’s not too uptight.

Price The smell of truffles in the air should remind you that it’s pricey, but that goes with the territory in this part of town.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

The terrace at the back is the place to be, so plan ahead and remember to book a table or you’ll have no hope of a seat.

Building 3, DIFC, Dubai, 7pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 4256677. carameldubai.com

SIDDHARTA LOUNGE

10

Atmosphere A relative newbie on the Dubai bar scene, Siddharta maintains a nice, mellow vibe.

Location In Grosvenor House's new tower, this is the address to be seen in. The private lift sits directly opposite sister outlet Buddha Bar, giving the place an exclusive air. It's tres Dubai.

Best For A couple of bottles of wine and some nibbles with friends in a luxurious lounge setting.

Price It’s far from cheap, and you will definitely want to order some of the small plates, which aren’t budget friendly either.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

The service is having some teething problems.

Sort it out.

Grosvenor House Dubai, Tower Two, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 5pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

LEFT BANK

It may share the name of the waterside bar at the Madinat, but the Souk al Bahar outpost of Left Bank is decidedly more glam. High booths,

rich fabrics and dark corners make for an atmospheric night out, and the food (we love the cheese platter) makes it a great choice for dinner and drinks, or

drinks that turn into a late night feast. It’s pretty pricey, but we keep going back.

Souk al Bahar, Old Town, Dubai, 6pm to 2am.

Tel: (04) 3684501

360Ëš of enjoyment...

Witness and enjoy 360 degrees of unparalleled views of Dubai and beyond from the highest public observation terrace in the world, At the Top, Burj Khalifa.

Explore the unique, interactive Burj Khalifa multi-media exhibits. Explore the history of Dubai aboard the 65-metre-long travelator.

To experience all-round enjoyment, visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa.

For more information please call us on 800 At the Top, or visit www.atthetop.ae to purchase your tickets today.

THE HOT LIST

BRUNCHES Al Qasr

TRAITEUR

Armani/ Peck

1

Atmosphere A smart crowd, and an excellent location make it a joy to attend. January has never seemed so nice.

Food Oysters, charcuterie, alfresco spit roasts, lobster, eggs Benedict, smoked salmon. Need we say more?

Location With the constant likelihood of brilliant sunshine, the open terrace is a perfect place for a Friday morning.

Best for Right now. Smart-casual at its best, and the finest French brasserie food in town.

Price Up to you – Dhs375 sans booze, Dhs450 with wine and beer, Dhs595 with bubbly and Dhs1,998 with a limo pick up.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

It’s our favourite and will continue to hang on to top spot until someone else steps up.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. dubai.park. hyatt.com

AL QASR

2

Atmosphere Big and popular. It has every little bell and whistle you can think of.

Food Our advice is that you don’t eat for the week prior to visiting – yes, there is that much food.

Location There’s a cracking outdoor terrace, and you’re just a boat ride away from the Madinat’s bars.

Best for Calling up everyone you know in your phonebook and indulging.

Price A price tag of Dhs525 makes Al Qasr one of the most expensive brunches in town. But, with the amount of grub on offer, that’s to be expected.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

It’s big for a reason, and that is because people just keep coming back – and so they should.

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Al Qasr, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3666730. jumeirah.com

ZUMA

Our pick of the brunch bunch

The Grand Grill

3

4

5

ARMANI/ PECK

THE GRAND GRILL

Atmosphere One of Dubai’s most popular brunches. Get a definite answer from your friends and book ahead.

Atmosphere Elegant, stylish but certainly not over the top.

Choose the three-hour slot between noon and 11pm that suits you best.

Food There’s a good selection of hot dishes from the a la carte menu, as well as plenty of freshly prepared sushi and sashimi.

Food A selection of antipasti, dedicated charcuterie room, cheeses, a la carte menu and carving station – so you’ll be well fed.

Atmosphere Arguably the best party brunch in town – with you, the people, awarding it best brunch at the What’s On Award 2011.

Location DIFC, home to a host of international restaurant giants.

Location Located inside Burj Khalifa, with a view overlooking the fountains.

Not too shabby.

Location It has prime placement in the Marina, meaning plenty of post brunch options.

Best for Food envy be gone! Mix and match with your friends and family – that is the secret to this brunch.

Best for Enjoying a lovely, long Italian-style lunch. Good conversation without the rowdy

Best for Impromptu singing and dancing with the everfriendly waiting staff.

Price Kitsu (no alcohol) Dhs315, Kowaku Dhs425 (with alcohol) and Kyasha (with champers) Dhs550.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Our favourite Japanese brunch – and boy do we love Japanese food.

Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm.

Tel: (04) 4255660. zumarestaurant.com

Food Buckets of beer, plates piled high with meat, plus various sides and salads.

Price Dhs240 without alcohol, Dhs340 with house beverages and Dhs550 with premium beverages.

Price Definitely one of the most enticingly priced brunches. It's a bargain at Dhs295 with alcohol or Dhs225 without.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

The perfect embodiment of a lazy Italian weekend meal – great food, cooked with care.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

It has become our go to brunch for a rowdy birthday with friends, family or colleagues.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Downtown, Dubai, noon to 11pm. Tel: (04) 8883888. dubai. armanihotels.com

Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Lobby level, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3994221. thegrandgrill.com JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 91

Toshi

Thai Kitchen

6

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB TOSHI Atmosphere The inside is refined and elegant, while the terrace is ace in good weather.

Food A huge room full of starters and puds, lovely roast meats down the corridor and live cooking stations outside.

Location Very picturesque indeed, with the polo field mere feet away for some postbrunch entertainment.

Best for Wonderful in the sunshine and plenty for children to do, too. Test out the bouncy castle.

7

Atmosphere We don’t like the misnomer ‘evening brunch’, but Toshi guarantees a fun and elegant evening regardless.

Food It’s Asian Night, so think sushi, dim sum, soup and grilled meats made to order.

Location On the 18th floor of the Grand Millennium Dubai with a bar just next door for post-10pm drinks.

And the Belgian Beer Café is downstairs, too.

Belgian Beer Café

8

THE IVY

Food Three courses from an a la carte menu, which is always the best way.

Order the steak tartare (spicy), a meaty main and the apple pie with custard for dessert.

Food Both a la carte and table service – but it’s all you can eat. Clever that.

Food A la carte ordering, which you can supplement with a buffet of cold cuts, salads and cheeses and a carving station.

Location It's a shame such a lovely restaurant is in a mall, but it failed to impact our lunch.

Price Dhs275 with a welcome cocktail.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Great for families and the polo afterwards is an excellent perk.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Perfect for people who are busy on Friday during the day. Tasty food, too.

Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches, Dubai, noon to 3pm.

Tel: (04) 3618111. poloclubdubai.com

Grand Millennium Dubai, Tecom, Al Barsha, Dubai, 7pm to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 4299999. millenniumhotels.com

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Brunch the way it should be – focused on the food. An 11am start to allow time for papers and coffee would be welcomed.

92 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

10

Atmosphere Reminds us of a highend European pub with a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere.

Price An eminently reasonable Dhs235.

11. Jazz Sumptuous, Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel 12. Picnic Brunch, Al Badia Golf Club 13. Blue Rain, Ritz-Carlton DIFC 14. The Observatory, Marriot Harbour Hotel 15. Anise, InterContinental DFC, Dubai Festival City

BELGIAN BEER CAFÉ

Atmosphere We recommend you try and secure a table on the terrace at this time of year.

Best for A long lunch with a couple of close friends and a good wine.

HOT ON THE HEELS

9

Atmosphere Brunchers are ushered into the 'outdoor' area nearest the mall, which creates a buzz.

Best for Capitalising on a long, and large, dinner with your friends

Price Dhs199 (including soft drinks), Dhs275 with selected drinks and Dhs399 with drinks and half a bottle of bubbly.

THAI KITCHEN

Emirates Towers, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3198767. theivy.ae

15

Location It is set in one of our favourite hotels, and always worth considering making your way to The Terrace bar after brunch for a tipple or two.

Best for Surrounding yourself with friends and gorging on some seriously top notch Thai food.

Price Dhs245, making it one of the best value brunches in Dubai.

Location The outdoor terrace has one of our favourite views of Dubai.

Best for A pub lunch and then some. And just look at the price. That should make you smile.

Price A wallet-pleasing Dhs249. You can’t ask for much more.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Just like its dinner service, but it’s all you can eat and only Dhs245.

Bargain.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

BBC, you’re a trusted friend, and if you keep your prices that competitive, then we’ll keep returning.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm.

Tel: (04) 3172222. dubai. park.hyatt.com

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 1pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 7011128. ichotelsgroup.com

ANISE

A reliable all-daydining restaurant for the most part, the InterCon’s Anise puts on a decent party at brunchtime these days.

Everything from

noodles and curry to pizza and pasta is on offer, so you won’t leave hungry, with the added attractions of an alfresco BBQ on the terrace, cocktail bar

and Latino band.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City, DFC, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 to Dhs550.

Tel: (04) 7011127. diningdfc.com

Poems by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum 40 Poems From The Desert is available in both English and Arabic at all leading retail outlets in the Gulf and at booksarabia.com

THE HOT LIST

SPAS Amara Spa

SENSASIA EXPRESS

One&Only Spa

1

Therapists Friendly, efficient and well trained to the high SensAsia standards.

Menu A winning combination of big brand names, shorter treatments and cheaper prices.

The Spa The sassier younger sister to the other branches, this spa is pared down with everything you need in your small but perfectly formed treatment room. Don’t worry though – you still get the ginger tea.

Price Very reasonable indeed at Dhs155 for a back, neck and shoulder massage, mini-facials costing Dhs60 and Dhs225 for a body wrap.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

We love the storytelling graphics on the treatment room walls.

Mall Of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Sat 10am to midnight.

Tel: (04) 3549228. sensasiaspas.com

AMARA SPA

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The daddies of the health and leisure scene

The Spa

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ONE&ONLY SPA

B/ATTITUDE

Therapists Experienced and courteous, many of the therapists have been at Amara for years, and have their own loyal following.

Therapists The therapists are well informed, charming and at ease to explain everything you need to know. Some of the best in Dubai.

Therapists Knowledgeable and intuitive, staff will put you at ease whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned spa-goer.

Therapists Quiet, courteous and just the ticket if you need a soothing afternoon of expert pampering.

Menu There’s a stunning pool (and suitably tasty poolside dishes) and rituals are grouped by theme to ensure a wonderfully relaxing spa day.

Menu Everything from effective medi-pedis

by Bastien Gonzalez to day-long rituals for two from ESPA.

Menu The vast treatment menu features Tibetan treatments, facials, scrubs, wraps, foot treatments, traditional and signature massages and hammam rituals.

Menu Packed with Natura Bissé products, luxurious rituals and a special gents’ menu, with rituals designed to help you relax, reenergise and more.

The Spa Check out the five hammam pools ranging in temperature from 18˚C to 38˚C.

The Spa This spa is a rabbit's warren of treatment rooms and lounges.

The changing rooms are stocked with Aromatherapy Associates goodies.

The Spa From the outdoor showers to the music menu, Amara is gorgeous. It is especially good for couples, with romantic VIP suites.

Price It is not cheap, but there are usually monthly offers that take the sting out. We reckon the quality of products, spa and therapists are worth it.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

If you value luxury, this is the spa for you. Divine.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, 9am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 6021234. dubai. park.hyatt.com

The Spa Sumptuous treatment rooms with gorgeous terracotta, woods and turquoises, and a VIP area for couples to complete the experience.

Price Surprisingly reasonable for shorter treatments, ranging up to the big bucks for day-long rituals.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

A fab choice for a full spa day; the journey up the Palm makes it feel like a holiday.

One&Only The Palm, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 10am to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 4401010. thepalm. oneandonlyresorts.com

THE SPA

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Price The bespoke Intuitive massage is Dhs420 for 60 minutes or Dhs540 for 90 minutes. Tailored to your specified needs, it’s one of the best we’ve had.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Remember your swimmers and make time for the hammam pools.

Grosvenor House Dubai, Tower Two, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 9.15am to 10pm.

Tel: 04) 3998888. grosvenorhouse-dubai. com

Price Mid-price, but with high-quality products and well-trained therapists on hand the bill is justified.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

A real retreat in the heart of the Marina, this spa is a must visit.

The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 9am to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 4367777. theaddress.com

JANUARY 2012 WHAT’S ON 95

SensAsia Urban Spa

SENSASIA URBAN SPA

Talise Spa

The Spa

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Therapists Just lovely. Expertly trained and very sweet to boot. Don’t be fooled though – they’re powerful, too.

Menu A bit different, the menu has treatments aimed at shoppers, golfers, mums-to-be and more.

The Spa Asian chic with splashes of jewel tones to balance the signature Oriental ambience; the cosy rooms are a true treat.

It has the best dressing gowns in town, too.

Price Worth a visit for the ginger tea alone, but if you choose wisely you’ll get an hour-long massage for Dhs310.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

This is one of Dubai's best home-grown brands. Thumbs up.

Emirates Golf Club, The Village Mall and Shoreline Apartments, Dubai, 10am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 4179820. sensaisaapas.com

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SISTERS BEAUTY LOUNGE

THE SPA

Therapists Our eyebrow expert, Lily, is one of the most professional and efficient waxers in town, and her colleagues are equally superb.

Therapists Superbly trained therapists are on hand to guide you through the vast spa on your journey from reception to relaxation.

Menu There's a focus on nails, threading and facials, with Dermalogica products, the famous UMO gold facial and hairstyling all on offer.

Menu Tired? Then it's best to try out the highly recommended jet lag treatment. If you’re looking for something else, there’s a separate menu for ladies and gents.

The Spa More of a salon than a spa, the branches of Sisters are modern, bright and friendly.

There's also a branch in The Dubai Mall.

Price It's a neighbourhood spot, with manicures for Dhs70, eyebrow shaping for Dhs30 and a full body massage for Dhs275.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Take our lead, we have them on speed dial.

The Village Mall, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, 9am to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 3420787. sistersbeautylounge.com

HOT ON THE HEELS 11. Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Al Wadi 12. Armani/Spa, Armani Hotel 13. Lime Spa, Desert Palm 14. ShuiQi Spa & Fitness, Atlantis The Palm 15. Mandara Spa, The Monarch

96 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

The Spa Only minutes away from the stress of ehe Dubai Mall, this shrine is a tranquil haven for shoppers.

THE SPA

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Therapists Be prepared for the therapists to whisk you away from the daily grind into a cocoon of comfort.

Menu You won’t be spoilt for choice here, but there is still a decent selection of rituals for lengthy pampering.

The Spa High-quality spa real estate – the relaxation rooms overlook the lakes at the base of Burj Khalifa.

Price It may seem pricey, but you’ll get your money’s worth by enjoying the relaxation and steam areas.

Price The regular offers will take the sting out and save you some money for the mall.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Make sure you leave time for relaxing in the lounge afterwards.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

If you have a free day to hang around the Downtown area, then this is a lovely spot to relax before dinner at Asado.

The Address Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 4388888. theaddress.com

The Palace, Old Town, Dubai, 9am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 4287888. theaddress.com

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TALISE SPA

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Therapists Jam-packed with experts; there’s a mix of nationalities and specialities, from massage therapists to a GP. Menu In addition to a vast spa menu, Talise also has some other cards up its sleeve, including a naturopath, life coaching and medical testing.

The Spa A lovely setting, with treatment rooms tucked away among leafy pathways and a private pool for spa-goers.

Price Not bad for such a high-end establishment.

The 80-minute Royal Hammam costs a fair Dhs450.

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

Just the spot to recover after the excesses of the holiday season.

Al Qasr, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 9am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 3666681. jumeirah.com/talise

ARMANI/SPA

As you’d expect, the spa in the Armani Hotel is pretty darn sleek. More suited to travelling business types than those looking for a lazy spa day, you choose a

time slot rather than a specific massage and the therapist helps determine which treatment is best for you – ideal if you’re a bit indecisive.

Expect chic dressing

gowns, grey slate and a little taste of the Armani lifestyle.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 8883888. dubai. armanihotels.com

ferrariworldabudhabi.com

IT’S YOUR TURN TO FEEL THE THRILL

When you hit 240km/h in less than 5 seconds, don’t forget to breathe. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari branded theme park, you finally have the chance to live the racing dream in ways you never imagined possible. Experience the legend like never before, with over 20 rides and attractions in the world’s largest indoor theme park.

Catboy hosts the Catboy & Geordiebird Breakfast Show, Sun to Thurs, 6am to 10am, Dubai 92. dubai92.com

BACKCHAT

WITH CATBOY

Ever the optimist, our man on the radio ponders the impending end-of-days in 2012, and sees that there is a silver lining

I

f Hollywood, Nostradamus, the Mayans and attentionseeking YouTube nuts the world over are to be believed, this is going to be our last year on Earth. Actually, if you read offbeat websites as often as I do (it’s part of my job), you’d know we’re warned that the world is ending about four times a year. 2012 is the big one, though… And I bet there are a larger percentage of people out there who are worrying

about it than are willing to let on.

Not me though. As long as whatever happens is quick and with the minimal amount of pain, I’m welcoming it with open arms. Why? Because of irony.

Back in the early 1990s I was mooching about in a nightclub in Sheffield. This club had a 1960s/70s night, playing everything from The Beatles to T-Rex, Dave Clark Five to Mudd. Anyway, to cut

a long story short, the night I was in there they’d taken it upon themselves to decide that the 1980s were suddenly retro.

The hits of Wham! were blasting out of the speakers and the dance floor was filled with 18-year-olds jumping around.

Every single one of them had a knowing look on their face, a look that said, “we’re all in on the joke”.

Bear in mind that Wham! had only released their last single five years previously. It was the first time I had that uneasy feeling that I didn’t get along with irony. Fast-forward 20 years and here we are, all wearing that same knowing smile as those kids dancing to Wham!

The main source of this is, of course, the Internet. Every day we settle in front of the screen to get ourselves in on the joke, whether that joke is the many amazing talents of cats, fat men in their late 20s who

are still living with the parents and enjoying toy light-sabres way too much, or teen girls auto-tuning themselves to pop stardom.

That last one is probably the most predominant. When I was growing up, pop stars were on television for half an hour per week. I didn’t put them on there. I didn’t get them record contracts. I just sat there in polyester slacks and a tank-top nodding along.

These days, you have Rebecca Black recording a truly stupendous three minutes of noise and what do we all do?

We click play enough times to get her a record contract, TV appearances, a page on Wikipedia and a very healthy bank balance. Not because we like her and certainly not because of the song quality. We do it because it’s ironic.

And because of irony, Rebecca Black’s Friday (the official one) has had 12 million hits on YouTube, while Radiohead’s Paranoid Android has not even reached 400,000.

And that’s why I welcome the end of days with a big smile on my face. All that I ask is that whichever higher power or alien civilisation brings this destruction upon us, does so on a Thursday… Y’know… Just to be ironic.

NEXT MONTH: YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE DUBAI INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL, THE DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS AND WE CHAT TO KASABIAN 98 WHAT’S ON JANUARY 2012

| freelancer collection raymond-weil.com

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