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calvinklein.com
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ConTEnTS 16
June 2012
FEATURES
25
16 Summertime, and the livin’ is easy
The mercury might be rising, but there’s still plenty to do in the emirate; from (indoor) sports to learning to play a musical instrument, we’ve got you covered
25 Win with What's on
38
Are you feeling lucky, punk? We hope so, because there’s Dhs50,000 worth of prizes to celebrate our 33rd birthday up for grabs
34 The takeaway test: burgers
34
Chasing down the capital’s quickest burgers with this month’s takeaway challenge
38 Back to life
Chatting with US rock band Evanescence’s lead singer Amy Lee before their UAE gig this month
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 3
ConTEnTS
THE ROUND-UP 12 Salaam
Bite-sized news, views and rumours for the month of June
42 Film
It’s a big month for films, with Prometheus – Ridley Scott’s long-awaited prequel to the Alien series – storming onto the silver screen, alongside Snow White And The Huntsman and Men In Black 3
45 Eating out
We review new Melia Hotel duo Titanic and Signature, sample the latest offerings from a host of restaurants including Table 9, Kitchen 45 and Traiteur, and learn how to make a classic apple crumble with custard
75 Sport & outdoor
This month we’ll show you how improving your golf game is all in the mind, ‘Danger’ Matt hurtles across the water on a ZapCat and the UAE gets the green light to start an American Football league
83 Mind & body
Body language expert Allan Pease shares his expert knowledge on body language, plus news from the world of wellbeing
91 Music & nightlife
We chat to Lebanese-born, Dubaibased musician Karl Wolf, round up the month’s clubbing highlights and meet the creative chameleon that is Adriano K
103 Travel
What to do and where to go in Hong Kong, climbing mountains in Ethiopia and globe trotting around Tuscany, plus the hottest travel deals and news
113 The hot list
The only list you’ll ever need
130 Backchat with… Catboy The radio star gives his comments on the problems of social media commenting. There’s irony there, somewhere
45
59 Art
The inside scoop on the upcoming Sharmila Dance summer workshop, plus five exhibitions not to miss this month
67 Shopping
How to dress for your body shape and shop for all things yellow, plus the hottest products and stores around the UAE
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103 4 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
eat drink and relax
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Coming soon... The region’s biggesT food, drink and enTerTainmenT awards
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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 FOOD EDITOR Gareth Rees gareth@motivate.ae FEATURES EDITOR, ABU DHABI Adam Workman adam@motivate.ae FEATURES WRITER Matt Priest matthew@motivate.ae ART DIRECTORS Freddie Colinares freddie@motivate.ae Olga Petroff olga@motivate.ae SENIOR DESIGNER Sheila Carino-Deocareza sheila@motivate.ae PICTURE RESEARCHER – GULFPICS Wayne Fernandez wayne@motivate.ae CONTRIBUTORS Rob Adair, Naveed Ahmed, Victor Besa, James Brennan, Stef Burgon, Vikram Gawde, Catherine Jarvie, Charles Pocock, Mark Powell, Conor Purcell, Gary Rhodes, Farooq Salik, Simon Smedley 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 PUBLISHER Gareth Lloyd-Jones | garethl@motivate.ae HEAD OF SALES Mark Pickup | markp@motivate.ae SENIOR ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER Violeta Botorogeanu | violeta@motivate.ae GENERAL MANAGER, ABU DHABI Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE, ABU DHABI Hamdan Bawazir | hamdan@motivate.ae Annual Subscription UAE Dhs120 • GCC Dhs332 • International US$90 (including Airmail charges)
I’m bored of summer. No, not the heat – I’m fine with that, I’ve lived in Dubai long enough to appreciate that in the summer it gets hot. No, I’m bored with the constant moaning about the fact that it’s summer. ‘Man, this heat’… ‘Phew, it’s a scorcher out there’… Hot? In the desert? Quelle surprise. You’ll be telling me next that it can get a bit nippy at the North Pole, and that there’s a good chance of rain in Manchester. Life in Dubai doesn’t have to stop just because it is, admittedly, very hot outside (unless you’re an overcoat salesman, in which case I take it all back). To prove the point, this month we present our guide to having fun out of the sun, with everything from sushi classes to pub quizzes there’s something for everyone – no need to fear the summer. If that wasn’t enough, we’ve also packed in our usual mix of goodies to keep you occupied this month, including the sport of Zapcatting (small, very fast boats piloted by thrill-seeking lunatics. We sent our staffer, Matt – he came back a funny shade of green), a round-up of the city’s best bars and our deliverymanbothering takeaway challenge. More? How about six – count ‘em, six – pages of brilliant competitions worth more than Dhs50,000? Dive in now, see if you’re lucky enough to scoop yourself a great prize – it’s guaranteed to chase away the summer blues. Enjoy the issue.
Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436, Email: 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, Email: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae
Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 11
We're officially part of the Twitterati. Follow us @WhatsonDubai for exclusive updates on nightlife, restaurants and more around the UAE. Tweet yourself
Salaam! A pick 'n' mix of news and rumours
What’s hot saFari, so gooDY We’re overjoyed to hear that the cramped and squalid Dubai Zoo is set to close its doors to make way for a brand new open safari park. An estimated Dhs150 million will be spent on a new 400-hectare area in Al Warqa’a, Dubai Municipality has announced. cash For creativitY Crowd funding is set to hit the Middle East next month, with the launch of the region’s first website dedicated to raising finance for artistic projects. Aflamnah.com allows individuals to raise money via open donations, to support artistic endeavours. mcgreen Fast food giant McDonald's has surprisingly been named the UAE's 'Greenest Firm' for its environmental initiative that ensures that all its trucks are run on leftover vegetable oil. They're lovin' it.
What’s not speeD Demons Speed cameras have snapped 15 cars doing more than 200kmh in only a 20-day period. The super speedy cars where impounded after being caught zooming along motorways linking Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain. The speed limit on motorways in the UAE is 120kmh. suBstanDarD parking Far be it for us to utter the classic ‘only in Dubai’ cliché, but how else do you explain the news that police found a two-man submarine abandoned on the beach near Jumeirah Beach Residence? The owners were apparently taking it for a test drive. online lion A six-month-old lion cub was put up for sale on Twitter, sparking a bidding war between 100 interested buyers. Thankfully, the Ministry of Environment and Water, the agency responsible for animal welfare in the Emirates, stepped in and has taken custody of the lion. 12 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
Guess list
Your guess is as good as ours... well, not really
reD hot chili peppers We know of a least two UAE-based promoters that are desperate to bring the American rockers to the Emirates, and the chances of that happening just went up a notch or two thanks to the band confirming a gig in Beirut in September. Our inside man (or is it a woman?) is confident that the deal to bring the band here is now ‘all but done’.
50%
THIS MONTH WE'RE GOING TO...
one Direction We suppose it was inevitable, really, but the bandwagon that is One Direction will be rolling to the UAE shores very soon, according our man in the know. The X Factor UK bronze medallists – who have an army of near hysterical fans – will be heading our way after the summer, we’re told. We can hardly contain our excitement.
15%
35%
DiZZee rascal Illness scuppered our chances of seeing the king of British hip hop at last month's Sandance. Our spies tell us he's eager to return, and it'll happen this year.
give BlooD Not that you need an excuse, but it’s World Blood Donor day on the 24th. Get down to the mobile unit, at The One Jumeirah, and do your bit. Jun 24, The One, Jumeirah Beach Road, 9am to 1.30pm, free. Tel: (04) 3456687. theone.com
LoCaL KnowLEDGE
girl about town
St John Cooper, business development director, Big Bus Tours
Dubai 92’s Geordiebird gives us the heads-up on the Dubai bar scene
ILLUSTRATION BY: PAUL STERRY
secret spot The small courtyards and art gallery cafes in the Bastakiya district are a great place to explore, relax and unwind. Go to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre For Cultural Understanding – you can tuck into traditional Emirati breakfasts and lunches.
must visit The Dubai Museum is a must-see. It shows the extraordinary history of Dubai and how it has grown from a small fishing village to the vibrant and fascinating city that it is now. Dubai Museum, Sat to Thur, 8.30am to 8.30pm, Friday 2.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs3. Tel: (04) 3531862. definitelydubai.com
WeekenDs When I'm not spending time with my wife and kids, you'll often find me watching my beloved Norwich City at the Dhow & Anchor – the official home of the supporters club. Dhow & Anchor, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah, daily noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 3311111. jumeirah.com
eating out One of my favourites is Thai Chi at Wafi – it’s great for tasty Asian cuisine, and there’s a really relaxed atmosphere there. Thai Chi, Wafi Pyramids, Oud Metha, daily noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11.45pm. Tel: (04) 3244100. wafi.com
Book cluB
DuBai chamBer orchestra
Gérard Café have introduced a book club at their Downtown branch. It’ll be held every three weeks – pop in for coffee and quick (or slow) read. Gérard Café, Downtown Burj Khalifa. Tel: (04) 3445029. facebook.com/gerardcafe
Classical music lovers rejoice; there's still time to catch the DCO's wonderful renditions of Mozart and Haydn before they pack up for the summer Jun 15, Dubai College, Al Sufouh, 8pm, free. facebook.com/dubaichamberorchestra
this month: strAnDED @ thE roYAl islAnD BEACh ClUB Stranded? It’s at a beach club, on Lebanon, the first island to open on The World. What drinks are on offer? Your typical range of beers, spirits and wine, all delivered to your sunlounger. They do a decent Mojito, too. Who goes there? Not that many people, really. During the day there’s a really mellow vibe, with chilled out tunes from the MustHaveSoul guys, cabanas and chalets available to rent, plus a pool, footy, volleyball, table tennis, sunbeds and, of course, a bar. Any food on the menu? There’s a restaurant where you can have a sit-down meal, but you can also order BBQ to your sunbed, cabana or chalet. The steak sarnies and the beefburger weren’t bad. How’s the service? There was a bit of confusion, and the staff didn’t like it when I tried to order at the bar, but once I had learned to stay put and wait patiently once or twice, I ended up with my own trusty waiter. The table service improved throughout the day. What about taxis? You reach the island by boat, which took about 15 or 20 minutes. It wasn’t easy to find in the first place, and I was ten minutes late, but the boat left 40 minutes later than I had booked. Both a curse and a blessing. Geordiebird verdict: Now is the time to go if you want a chilled out day on the beach with some quality tunes, before the island turns into an allday party session. Hang on, actually, that sounds quite fun, too. Lebanon, The World, Dubai, Fri from 11am, Dhs200. Tel: (04) 2252923. royalislandbeachclub.ae
Find us at
www.facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 13
SALAAM
IN THE NEWS
SPOT OF TEA, YOUR MAJESTY? WHETHER YOU’RE A ROYALIST OR NOT, THE JUBILEE IS AN EXCUSE FOR A PARTY, ISN’T IT? HERE ARE SOME VERY BRITISH WAYS TO CELEBRATE 60 YEARS OF THE QUEEN OF ENGLAND ON THE THRONE. PIP PIP
Raffles
Going all out to create a British-style street party, Raffles will be breaking out the long tables, stringing up the bunting and even opening a temporary pie and mash shop. Jun 1, Raffles Dubai, Oud Metha, 12.30pm to 4pm, from Dhs300. Tel: (04) 3248888. raffles.com/dubai
Barasti
In true expat style, crowds of people will gather in the bright sunshine at Barasti to watch such British events as The Epsom Derby and the Thames River Pageant on the big screen. Jun 2, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, 11am to 2.30am, free. Tel: (04) 3993333. lemeridienminaseyahi.com
Rhodes in Residence
Ever the proud Brit, Gary Rhodes has put together an afternoon tea with the works: finger sandwiches, freshly baked cakes, champagne and a lovely cuppa. We’re sure her majesty would approve. Rhodes In Residence, Tower Two, Grosvenor House, 3pm to 6pm, Dhs150 for tea, Dhs250 with champagne. Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com
BURJ FIRST
Last month we managed to enjoy a sneak peak at the offices on the 152rd-floor of the Burj Khalifa (a whole 30 floors above the At The Top observation deck), so we did what any sane person would do – enjoyed the views and played some table tennis.
Pricy pen
Yet more “world’s most…” from our neck of the woods, this time in the shape of the world’s most expensive… pen. The gold and diamond studded Alchemist pens, by Italian craftsmen 14 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
Montegrappa, went on sale this month with a hefty Dhs400,000 price tag. Should you be wealthy enough (do you rob banks for a living?), 16 of the pricey writers are available in the UAE
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metres tall Dubai has another world record to add to its ever-growing list – Princess Tower in Dubai Marina has been named the world’s tallest residential building.
Not enough fruit
05
the recommended daily intake of fruit and vegetables
59
THE ESTIMATED PERCENTAGE OF DUBAI RESIDENTS WHO EAT LESS THAN THE RECOMMENDED AMOUNT
(Source: The Dubai Health Authority)
at branches of Rivoli. We’ll stick to our BiCs. Dubai Mall, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 3398496. Metro: Dubai Mall. rivoligroup.com
A perfect summer’s day. Live the moment.
Families Travelling in Style from AED 1,225* Laugh. Discover. Together. Book your first room for two adults for three nights or more at Arabian Court, One&Only Royal Mirage this summer and receive a second children’s room at 50% off the room rate for a maximum of three children or teenagers. This offer includes one complimentary Atlantis Aquaventure day pass per person per stay. To book your summer holiday, contact your preferred travel agent, visit oneandonlyroyalmirage.com or call +971 4 399 99 99 oneandonlyresorts.com Bahamas | Cape Town | Dubai | Maldives | Mauritius | Mexico One&Only Sanya, Hainan opening soon
Offer valid 14 Jun - 16 Sep 2012 excluding 17-24 Aug 2012 and is subject to availability. Minimum of three nights applies. A maximum of two children up to 16 years old, plus one teenager up to 18 years old are permitted in the second room. Rates exclude 10% service charge and 10% municipality fee and breakfast is chargeable. Offer is valid for GCC and Middle East residents only. Additional terms and conditions apply.
SUMMER TIME AND THE
LIVIN’ IS EASY 16 WHAT’S ON June 2012
It seems everyone is booking their plane tickets home and jetting off on holiday. But what happens if you have a long summer in Dubai stretching ahead of you? Well, plenty, actually, with our guide to keeping busy morning, noon and night. From crazy sports to shaking up your career, have your diary at the ready‌
June 2012 WHAT’S ON 17
summer time
Get sporty
It’s sweatier than a gorilla’s armpit out there, but that doesn’t mean you’re confined to the treadmill if you want to burn some calories. Take advantage of a new indoor sports centre or pick up a new hobby… the Autodrome’s Laserdome. Think of it as paintball without the mess (and subsequent Ultimate indoor bruises), with teams of up to ten arena people duelling to the death. Come June 8, the World Trade Not really. But you can have a Centre is transformed from good run around a medievalconvention centre to the Middle style castle, complete with East’s largest indoor sports event, Day-Glo dungeon, score points encompassing over 32,000 sqm. by shooting at vests worn by Hosting leagues, matches, classes opponents and afterwards enjoy and even a 660m running track, the glory – or shame – of finding the impressive space is home to out who was the sharpest shot. a full-size football pitch (that can Dubai Autodrome, Motor City, also be used for rugby, Aussie Rules Dubai, Tue to Sat 10am to 10pm, or cricket, and can be split into ten Sun and Mon 2pm to 8.30pm, smaller pitches), one beach football Dhs80 for 15 mins. Tel: (04) pitch, six multi-sports courts for 3678700. dubaiautodrome.com basketball, Futsal, volleyball or tennis, spectator seating for 1,400 people, 12 table tennis tables, six pool or billiards tables and screens to catch the sporting action. Phew. Ice skating Open every day from 10am to Wannabe Torville and Deans midnight, spaces can be rented (hang on, have there been any from Dhs200 per hour, free parking is available and during July famous ice skaters since the nineties?) can perfect their triple footie players can catch the Dubai axels at a number of rinks around Indoor Football Championship Dubai. The Olympic-sized rink (July 8 to 13, 8pm to midnight) at The Dubai Mall is best for with leading European, local and families, with a children’s disco regional players competing on the (Dhs80) on weekend mornings FIFA-approved AstroTurf. from 9.45am and skate hire Dubai World Trade Centre, with two-hour ice access costing Sheikh Zayed Road, daily 10am Dhs55. Al Nasr Leisureland is the to midnight. Tel: (04) 3086332. most reasonable place to learn, dubaisportsworld.ae with private 30-minute classes for Dhs70, and an active ice hockey league if you are competent with skates and a stick. Laserdome The Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai, Enjoy a flashback to your youth 10am to 10pm, Dhs55 for two or fast-forward to a fictional hours including skate hire. Tel: (04) future of battling with lasers at 4485111. dubaiicerink.com Al Nasr Leisureland, Oud Metha, Dubai, Sat to Wed 1pm to 3pm, 4pm to 6pm and 7pm to 10pm, Dhs70 for 30-minute lesson. Tel: (04) 3371234. alnasrll.com
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18 WHAT’S ON June 2012
4. Skateboarding
Dubai’s skater boys (and girls) have created their own scene, taking over Mushrif Park for races, car parks for thrills and Tashkeel for an amazing calligraphyinspired park, but if your skills are far from ramp ready then the guys at Rage can help. Group lessons (from Dhs75) for up to four students are available, but if you’re on the wrong side of 18 then a private session (from Dhs150) might be best as the younger ones have a lower centre of gravity and it might not be too good for your
ego. Skateboards and safety gear are included, so you can have a go without committing your cash. If you’re a bit of a pro but want to stay out of the heat, then two hours in the Rage Bowl costs Dhs25, with helmets for Dhs10. Rage, The Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai, 10am to 10pm, from Dhs25. Tel: (04) 4341549. rage-shop.com
Change your job
If you’re ready to take a new career path, have been on the hunt for a while or fancy earning some extra dirhams in your spare time, there are courses on offer this summer that could shake up your life. So what do you want to be?
Make cash froM your clothes My Ex Wardrobe holds regular pop-up shops where 15 to 20 people can sell up to 50 items of clothing. The next takes place on July 7; with all are pieces needed the week before for sorting and organising, so you have plenty of time to be brutal with your belongings. You don’t even need to sell the clothes yourself, and any unsold items go back to you or are donated to charity. The evening also includes food and drinks, pampering sessions and goodie bags, with the chance to grab some fashion bargains. Jul 7, Veda Pavilion, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. facebook. com/MyExWardrobe
5. Registered yoga instructor
Taking place over 200 hours (six days a week, with Fridays off), this intensive training course with expert Erica Blitz covers everything from teaching techniques to the realities of working as a full-time yoga instructor. You’ll need to bring a yoga mat, strap, two blocks and a bolster , as well as six month’s experience at regular classes before embarking on the sessions. Jun 24 to Jul 17. Yogalates Bliss In Dubai, Sky Dive Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 8.30am to 5.30pm, Dhs14,500. Tel: (050) 3289642. yogalatesblissindubai.com
6. Interior designer
From overhauling your own home to starting to work in a whole new field, the five-week Interior Design
Level One course, with instructor Sharon Conneely, will provide insight and inspiration. Taking place on Saturday mornings, it covers planning, different styles, working with scale, using colour, working to briefs and how to treat various rooms. Sharon also runs two-hour classes on specific topics such as Quick Fixes For A Stylish Home (Dhs350) throughout June and July. Jun 16 to Jul 14. DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, 9.30am to 1.30pm, Dhs1,400. Tel: (050) 5323749. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. ductac.org.
7. Chef
While there are plenty of classes for those of us who need to sharpen up our kitchen skills, if you’re serious about a life in chef’s whites then the International Centre for Culinary Arts’ certificate in culinary techniques will take you
design, with instructor Don Sankey, are aimed at beginners and are very hands on, with an introduction to materials and techniques, plus safety guidelines. Your newly acquired skills are then put to use to create a number of projects, including rings, bangles, pendants and earrings. The price includes all tools and equipment, with silver purchased as required. Wed, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, two-hour classes at 9am, noon or 3pm, Dhs1,280. Tel: (050) 7840509. dssilversmith.com
9. Make-up artist
This is a course that you and your pals can reap the rewards from for years to come. You’ll learn about using colours together, conquer the famed smoky eye, find out about using make-up in photoshoots and create a look for a fashion show, with lessons interspersed with hands-on practice. Running for a month on weekdays from 6pm, it can be fitted around your nine to five, and come the weekends you’ll be ready to glam up. Jul 1 to 31, Esmod, Academic City, Dubai, Sun to Thur 6pm to 9pm, Dhs10,000. Tel: (04) 4291228. esmod-dubai
10. Graphic designer to the next level. There are 44 classes covering everything from food safety and menu planning to trussing chickens and making sauces, with regular assessments. International Centre For Culinary Arts, Mankhool Road, Satwa, Dubai, Tues and Thur 9.30am to 12.30pm, Sat 9.30am to 4.30pm, Dhs14,000. Tel: (04) 3989745. iccadubai.ae
8. Jewellery designer Taking place over eight weeks, these classes in silver jewellery
If the life of a freelancer is the life for you, and you have a good eye for typeface, then maybe graphic design is the way to go. This threemonth course will introduce you to visual communication, taking you from interpreting concepts to presenting the final product. You’ll learn design principles, typography and colour theories; skills in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign; logo, business card, advert, brochure and poster design; plus project management, resulting in a Graphic Design Certificate. Jun 9 to Sept 15. SAE Institute, Knowledge Village, Dubai, Sat 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm, Dhs9,500. Tel: (04) 3616173. dubai.sae.edu
Add to your other skills and interests
You know that annoying part of your CV where some people have hobbies like fire dancing, Italian cookery, symphony orchestra and helping orphans, and you’ve had to write ‘cinema and socialising’? It’s time to do something about that…
11. Learn an instrument
Chicks digs guys who play guitar (check out Axl Rose and Chad Kroeger for evidence) and every girl could benefit from finding her inner rock goddess, so use your summer wisely. There are a number of places to learn how to play everything from bagpipes to the bassoon, but to score extra cool points pick up a bass, some drumsticks or a mic and sign up with House Of Rock. The guys there can provide private lessons at home and, if you want to take your skills to the stage, bring rockers together to form bands at their practice space in Al Quoz. Of course, if you have your heart set on solo stardom then they can help there too. Rock on. House Of Rock, Dubai, from Dhs75 for a 45-minute lesson. Tel: (056) 6356774. facebook.com/ dubai.houseofrock
12. Become king or queen of the kitchen
faMily friendly
Modhesh World
In his new home at World Trade Centre, Modhesh is welcoming families to a vast indoor space where a huge number of events are on offer. Split into zones, children can try their hand at arts and crafts, bounce around on trampolines, inflatables and in a soft play area, try horse and camel riding, learn about Emirati culture, play sports including skateboarding with demos from the pros and take part in educational activities. World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs10 and Dhs15 for children. Tel: (04) 2235444. Metro: World Trade Centre. dubaicalendar.ae
Some of Dubai’s top restaurants offer time in their kitchens (check out Nobu, Table 9 and Armani Ristorante) to learn their signature dishes, but for sheer choice of cuisines you can’t beat Atelier Des Chefs, where you can sign up on a class-by-class basis. This cookery school hosts groups to create everything from sushi to sweets, with set menus and a new schedule every month. Ideal for couples, parties and colleagues, you’ll sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labour at the end. Atelier Des Chefs, Le Méridien Dubai, Garhoud, from Dhs120 to Dhs350 per class. Tel: (056) 6900480. atelierdeschefs.com
June 2012 WHAT’S ON 21
summer time
13. Master wine tasting
If you shake in fear whenever a hefty wine list is placed on the table then you should pick up the basics so you can order with confidence (choosing the second cheapest doesn’t cut it anymore). Argentinean favourite Asado can host six people or more – best to get your own group together so you can choose a convenient time – in an informal setting, talking you through its extensive cellar, with the sommelier introducing you to vines from Chardonnay to Cabernets, but don’t leave without trying the Malbec. Once your nose is ready, join the city’s group of oenophiles at their regular gatherings; the Dubai Wine Club gets together on the third Thursday of the month and next meets at Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel on June 21 to ‘blind test’ six bottles, before tucking into an Italian buffet. Asado, The Palace, Old Town, Dubai, Dhs220 per person for 90 minutes. Tel: (04) 8883444. theaddress.com.
Jun 21, Dubai Wine Club, Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 7.30pm, Dhs150. meetup.com/Dubai-Wine-Club
14. Find out how to use your camera properly Dedicate one weekend to conquering your camera and your photo albums will be transformed. Gulf Photo Plus runs regular workshops in photography and the introductory course will assume you have little or no knowledge of your digital SLR camera or
composition. It will get you comfortable with your camera’s most useful functions, arm you with essential terminology and help you get to grips with basic concepts like depth of field and exposures. You just need to bring your camera (with a fully charged battery), an empty memory card and three of your favourite photos printed out. Jun 22 and 23, Gulf Photo Plus, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, 11am to 4pm, Dhs730. Tel: (04) 3808545. gulfphotoplus.com
15. Finally learn Arabic
We all thought we’d be fluent within months of arriving in Dubai, but instead our knowledge of Arabic is a wavering confidence in navigating the menu at a late-night Lebanese. Learning a language can be a drawn-out affair, but the Eton Institute is offering an intensive summer course with an average class size of 12 people, including 60 hours of teaching over three weeks on your choice of mornings, afternoons or evenings.
Arty summer camps
School’s out for summer, which means those scamp, are probably making a nuisance of themselves already. Get them out of the house with our pick of Dubai’s best creative summer camps. All the self-expression for your little one, with none of the mess…
17. The Jam Jar
This cool Al Quoz art spot is offering a three-week artistic workshop for children and teens aged six to 14. The programme aims to help them create a portfolio of work using a variety of mediums through experimenting and learning different technical skills. Street 17a, Al Quoz 3, Dubai, 10am to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3417303. thejamjardubai.com
18. Dubai International Art Centre
Set in a bright villa, the friendly, fully trained staff at DIAC will guide your child through a number of artistic endeavours during half-day sessions, covering drawing, card making, cookery, embossing, clay modelling, glass painting and 22 WHAT’S ON June 2012
more. Suitable for children aged four to 11. Beach Road, near Mercato Mall, Jumeirah, Dubai, 10am to 1pm and 1pm to 4pm, Dhs140 per session. Tel: (04) 3444398. artdubai.com
19. DUCTAC
This visual arts camp takes place every week until August, offering children aged six to 12 the chance to try ceramics, painting, drawing and more, with all supplies provided. Happy campers receive a special T-shirt to wear. They’ll also make new friends, learn from professional instructors and make gifts for friends and family throughout the session. Jun 24 to Aug 2, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, Sun to Thur 10am to 1.30pm, Dhs900 per week. Tel: (04) 3414777. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. ductac.org
Jul 1 to 19, Eton Institute, Block 3, Knowledge Village, Dubai, Dhs2,300. Tel: (800) 3866. eton.ac
16. Explore space
Virgin Galactic have been eyeing up the UAE as a spaceport, but you don’t need to wait for Richard Branson to make his mind up if you want to discover the starry skies. This month sees the last transit of Venus in our lifetimes (unless you’re planning to live for another 104 years) so it’s the perfect time to join the Dubai Astronomy Group, which can tell you exactly what this means and where you can watch it. Venus will be passing between Earth and the sun on June 6, partially obscuring that glowing ball of heat and light we know so well. The group will be hosting an observation early that morning, with experts on hand. Membership is free, and once signed up you’ll receive a newsletter with details of upcoming events Jun 6. dubaiastronomy.com
20. Kid Theatre Works
Budding thesps can participate in five actionpacked weeks of drama camps this summer. Taught by West End performers, they will take part in singing, acting, writing and dancing, and get involved in all aspects of theatre, with each week ending with a showpiece. Jul 1 to Sept 6, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, Dhs750 per week. Tel: (050) 585653. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. kidstheatreworks.com
hit the shops One of the highlights of the city’s calendar, Dubai Summer Surprises kicks off on June 14 with a month of special events, major discounts, big giveaways (when oh when will we win a car?), late-night opening hours and the omnipresent Modhesh. In addition to DSS deals, shops that have signed up to Summer Deals can slash their prices to their hearts’ content all the way through to September. Jun 14 to Jul 14. dubaievents.ae
with what’s On 33rd anniversary
It’s our birthday, but you’re the ones getting the presents... To be in with a chance of winning any of these fantastic prizes, e-mail winwithwhatson@motivate.ae stating the name of the competition in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details alongside your answer to the relevant question.
Good luck!
WIN WITH WHAT’S ON
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a LUXURY Mini-BREaK at THE NEW ANANTARA EASTERN MANGROVES HOTEL AND SPA
One very lucky What’s On fan and a friend will be treated to an exclusive overnight stay in one of the new Eastern Mangroves’ elegant rooms, with stunning views over the lush mangroves. Also included in their visit to Abu Dhabi’s new urban retreat is a dinner for two at Pachaylen restaurant, where you can savour the authentic tastes of Thailand. Lastly, the winner can indulge their senses with a spa voucher for two, where you can try one of Anantara’s luxurious spa treatments. For your chance to visit this amazing resort, simply tell us… What cuisine is on offer at Pachaylen? a) Thai b) Turkish c) Turkmenistani
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Win! AN AL AIN BREAK WITH ROTANA
The Garden City’s swankiest hotel is definitely the Al Ain Rotana. Our prize includes a Saturday stay for two with breakfast, worth more than Dhs1,650. For your chance to win, tell us… AL AIN IS IN WHICH EMIRATE? a) Fujairah b) Ras Al Khaimah c) Abu Dhabi
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Win! SEAFOOD AND A STAY AT YAS VICEROY
Still the pinnacle of hotel luxury on Yas Island, the Yas Viceroy has given us a Thursday night stay in a deluxe room with a seafood night meal at Origins restaurant for two, worth Dhs2,400 in total. For your chance to win, tell us… Which of these is NOT a seafood dish? a) Prawn cocktail b) Smoked salmon c) Baked potato
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DINNER FOR TWO WORTH DHS500 at The China Club
The China Club is one of Dubai’s best-loved Chinese restaurants, with speciality Peking, Szechwan and Cantonese dishes. Situated at the Radisson Blu hotel in Deira, we recommend you wear some stretchy clothes – it’s hard to stop eating once you start here. For your chance to win a dinner for two up to a value of Dhs500, simply tell us… Which is of the following cuisines is not on offer at The China Club? a) Pekinese b) Cantonese c) Japanese
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Win! DINNER FOR TWO AT ORCHID IN THE RAMADA DOWNTOWN DUBAI 4
Dubai dwellers listen: up, we have a table for two at Orchid restaurant in Ramada’s Downtown hotel waiting to be won. Offering themed nights, an international menu, homemade pastries and views of the Burj Khalifa, you’re certain of a great feed. For your chance to win, simply tell us… What is an orchid? a) A flower b) A cat c) An architectural style
WIN! A WEEKEND STAY AT MÖVENPICK DEIRA WITH BREAKFAST, BRUNCH AND BEACH ACCESS 7
One lucky What’s On reader could be winning a stay for two in an Executive Suite at the Mövenpick Deira, including breakfast for two, Friday brunch in Wokilicious (where you’ll find noodles, sushi, dim sum and more) and free transfers to a private beach on Palm Jumeirah. For your chance to be that lucky so-and-so, you’ll have to get this question right… What shape is a traditional wok? a) Square b) Round c) Triangular
an hP DV6 nOtEBOOK WORTH DHS3,000
Want to unchain yourself from the desk, without spending a fil? Well you’ll definitely want to win an HP Pavilion DV6 Notebook, with powerful graphics, audio and video software. For your chance to win, tell us…
Which of these is an Apple product? a) IALARM b) IPAD c) IDON’TKNOW
WIN WITH WHAT’S ON
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Dhs13,000 OF FaB Ras aL KhaiMah tRiPs
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is arguably the most tranquil of all the emirates, which makes it a perfect summer getaway without even needing to pack your passport. And we have a veritable bonanza of RAK-related prizes for two to give away to four lucky winners. First up is a one-night stay in a beachfront pool villa at the Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach, with breakfast and a 90-minute spa session (worth more than Dhs3,600). For outdoor types, there’s horse riding combined with a one-night stay in a deluxe pool villa at the Banyan Tree Al Wadi (worth more than Dhs2,700). The Hilton RAK Resort & Spa is offering an overnight stay with breakfast plus dinner in the emirate’s only Brazilian restaurant, Pura Vida (worth Dhs1,500). And there’s another superrelaxing, one-night break in a premium room at The Cove Rotana, including breakfast and 30 minutes of beach massage (worth more than Dhs2,500). Three winners will also get an extra bonus prize: either two passes to the Iceland Water Park (worth Dhs300), two 15-minute flight experiences with Jazirah Light Aviation over majestic mountainous terrain (worth Dhs300), or a four-hour fishing trip for two from RAK Marine (worth Dhs2,000). For your chance to win, tell us…Which of these is NOT a type of fish? a) Cod b) Tuna c) Gorilla
WIN! Vouchers worth DHS200 to spend at the LIVING ROOM 10
The Grand Hyatt’s newest barrestaurant, The Living Room, has cocktails you’ll crave, imaginative dishes (we love the presentation in little glass pots) and a seriously seductive interior, and we have five vouchers worth Dhs200 each to be won. Ideal for post-work drinks and a nibble, this might be your new favourite hangout. Want to give it a try for free? Just tell us…
WHICH BRIDGE IS THE GRAND HYATT NEAR? a) Garhoud b) Golden Gate c) Sydney Harbour
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VOUCHERS FOR LASER HAIR REMOVAL AT SILKOR
Even if your bikini body needs some work, the experts at Silkor can have you hair free and ready for the pool with their clever lasers. We have two vouchers, worth Dhs400 each, up for grabs to get you on your way to silky smooth skin. For your chance to win, simply tell us… Which body part is laser removal not often used for? a) Legs b) Underarms c) Fingernails
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WIN! A SPORTY STAY AT MAFRAQ HOTEL
We have the perfect prize for those who enjoy mixing luxury with energetic pursuits, courtesy of the boutique-ish Baniyas-based Mafraq Hotel. The package consists of a deluxe room one-night weekend stay for two with late checkout, including a welcome mocktail drink at the pool, breakfast for two at The Olive Branch and two-hour tennis court rental, worth Dhs890. For your chance to win, tell us…
Which of these is a world-famous tennis player?
a) ROGER FEDERER b) CRISTIANO RONALDO c) LANCE ARMSTRONG
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Win! BRUNCH AND DINNER AT THE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN DUBAI
Win! AN OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BUFFET AND BREAKFAST FOR TWO AT THE ASIANA HOTEL
The brunch season has arrived, and you can jump aboard the all-you-can-eat train with a feast for two at Fazaris at The Address Downtown Dubai, where hungry diners can try stylish dinners and wine pairings. If you’re more of a Chinese fine dining fan, then find a friend and try dinner at the hotel’s elegant Hukama restaurant. Which would you like to win? For your chance to get your mitts on one of these tables for two, then get your thinking cap on and tell us… Where in the city is The Address Downtown Dubai? a) Arabian Ranches b) Downtown c) Mirdif
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BOWLING AND ICE SKATING
at Zayed Sports City
You can keep cool and get sporty(ish) while thermometers melt this summer: Zayed Sports City are giving away four sets of bowling for five, worth Dhs240 in total, and three sets of ice skating for four, worth Dhs450 in total. For your chance to win, tell us…
Which of these films famously featured bowling?
a) THE BIG LEBOWSKI b) THE GODFATHER c) THE EXORCIST
Want a city mini-break with flood galore? We have a night’s stay for two people at the newly opened fivestar Asiana Hotel in Deira. The winner can sample the Grand Buffet, which features dishes from restaurants on the mezzanine floor, including Sonamu Korean Restaurant, Hanabi Japanese Restaurant and Jade Chinese Restaurant. Want to win? Just tell us… what is the name of the Japanese Restaurant at Asiana Hotel? a) Sonamu b) Hanabi c) Jade
Win! DHS500 TO SPEND AT AURA-B.COM
Fancy treating yourself to some accessories, clothes or homewares? Well, listen up, as we have a voucher for Dhs500 to be spent at online lifestyle boutique aura-b.com, where you’ll find numerous brands, independent labels, regional designers and hand-picked pieces, all shipped for free throughout the UAE. For your chance to win a spending spree courtesy of What’s On, just tell us… Which of the following is not available on aura-b? a) Jewellery b) Furniture c) Automobiles
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 27
PREPARE FOR SPANISH HOSPITALITY AT ITS PASSIONATE BEST Each moment spent in a Meliá spa, restaurant, business lounge or suite evokes a sense of our unique brand of hospitality built around you. Whatever you’re in search of; be it breathtaking views of Dubai, the choice of 164 Italian designed rooms or intuitive service, we ensure that you are the most important part of the journey. What sets Meliá apart is an unwavering attention to you - our valued guest. It is not our job, it is our passion. Welcome to Meliá. The Meliá experience now in Dubai. 23 Kuwait Street, Port Rashid P.O. Box 116656, Dubai, United Arab Emirates T +971 (4) 3868111 F +971 (4) 3868222 melia.dubai@melia.com melia-dubai.com meliahotels.com melia.com
WIN WITH WHAT’S ON
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Win! STAYS, MEALS, GYM MEMBERSHIP AND A SPA TREATMENT AT THE CONCORDE FUJAIRAH HOTEL
WIN!
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Win! DINNER FOR TWO AT EMBASSY DUBAI
The boutique-style, five-star Concorde Hotel in Fujairah boasts a rooftop pool, spa, fitness centre and fine dining restaurants. If you’d like to treat yourself to a stay or feast in the emirate then listen up, as an overnight stay for two, buffet for two in Bell View restaurant, Seafood Fiesta dinner for two in Samakino restaurant, onemonth gym membership and one-hour massage are all waiting to be won.
We have teamed up with one of Dubai’s most stylish venues to offer a reader dinner for two, with a bottle of wine. Kitchen 45, the restaurant at Embassy Dubai, Grosvenor House’s three-storey hot spot, serves up amazing views of the city with mouth-watering European cuisine, fresh seafood and divine desserts. Want to try the new menu? Just tell us the correct answer to this question and keep your fingers crossed… Where is the original outpost of Embassy? a) Hong Kong b) London c) Swansea
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO NAB ONE OF THESE PRIZES, TELL US… WHICH COAST IS FUJAIRAH SITUATED ON? a) West b) East c) South
Dinner for two AT KGRILL IN THE KEMPINSKI
Meat eaters should pay attention to this; KGrill has launched a new menu to keep carnivores sated, featuring a selection of Wagyugrade steaks, burgers, Black Angus and Red Angus cuts, firm and fresh fish, jumbo prawns and Canadian lobster. You can also choose both their preferred cut and the manner of preparation – whether oven roasted or grilled over live coals – just the way you like it. If you’d like to try it on us (we’ll even let you take a friend), then you’ll have to get this question right.
Which of the following is not on the menu at KGrill? a) LOBSTER b) WAGYU BEEF c) HANDBAGS
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WIN! DINNER AND WINE
Win!
for two at Rhodes Twenty10 Winner of a coveted Black Hat award, Rhodes Twenty10 is one of Dubai’s most exciting steakhouses, with a decadent interior, killer drinks list and some seriously good steaks. We have a table for two, including a bottle of w, waiting to be won. Want it? You’ll have to get this question right… Who is the chef responsible for Rhodes Twenty10? a) Alain Ducasse b) Gary Rhodes c) Ferran Adrià
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DHS3,000 OF LE ROYAL MERIDIEN MEALS
Hungry? Good: there are three food-packed prizes up for grabs at Le Royal Méridien in Abu Dhabi. One person will scoop a dinner cruise for six people on the Shuja Yacht. Another winner gets Bubbly Brunch for four at revolving restaurant Al Fanar. And the third out of our hat can celebrate at Amalfi’s Thursday night Aperitivo Hour for six people. For your chance to win, tell us…
Which member of the British royal family is heir to the throne? a) The Prince Of Wales b) The Duke Of Poshingdon c) Lady Colchester
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A HEAVENLY WEEKEND AT THE WESTIN
The still-spangling-new Westin Abu Dhabi, overlooking the greenery of Abu Dhabi Golf Club, is a lovely escape without leaving the capital city. You can win the chance to see for yourself, with a Heavenly Weekend package, including breakfast for two and late checkout, worth more than Dhs850. For your chance to win, tell us… WHICH OF THESE IS A REAL FOOTBALL CLUB? a) West Ham United b) West London Academicals c) Westside Story Wanderers
FaMiLY BRUnCh
AT BLADES AT AL BADIA GOLF CLUB
You can treat the whole family to Saturday brunch with this fantastic prize from Blades. Adults can enjoy the vast international menu, while children can be let loose in the entertainment area where there are DVDs, PlayStations and minigolf activities to tire them out. We have a table for four (two adults and two children) to give away. For your chance to win it, just tell us…
Which of the following is not a pro golfer?
a) RORY MCELROY b) TIGER WOODS c) ANDY MURRAY
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BRUNCH FOR TWO AT THE BELGIAN BEER CAFÉ
Brunching at the BBC at the Crowne Plaza in Festival City is one of our favourite weekend pursuits, and we want to share the love with this prize. One What’s On reader will win a table for two at the Friday free-for-all, tucking into Belgian classics like mussels, cold cuts, cheeses and hot dishes, plus their pick of the drinks list. For your chance to win, just tell us the name of the famed detective from Belgium… a) Columbo b) Miss Marple c) Poirot
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WIN WITH WHAT’S ON
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WIN! Assessments and classes
WITH HUNDRED PILATES
Pilates is one of the most effective ways to get in shape, strengthen your core and even recover from injuries, and Hundred Pilates is on hand to get you fighting fit this summer. One winner will have an hour-long assessment with a trainer and a class of their choice, while another three winners will receive a free assessment each. Want to have a go? For your chance, just answer this question correctly…
What was the name of the man who created Pilates? a) JOSEPH PILATES b) JOSEPH YOGA c) JOSEPH MEDITATION
Win! MEALS AND DRINKS AT ARABIAN COURTYARD HOTEL 27
We have two vouchers, worth Dhs250 each, for dinner at Pan-Asian restaurant Silk Route, where you’ll find generous portions of Thai and Chinese dishes, plus two vouchers worth Dhs200 for the Sherlock Holmes bar, home to some great live music, all at the Arabian Courtyard hotel in Bur Dubai. For your chance to win, tell us… Who was the author of the Sherlock Holmes novels? a) Sir Arthur Conan Doyle b) Conan the Barbarian c) Conan O’Brien
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Win! PARK ROTANA STAY
Longing for some five-star luxury? We have just the tonic: a §weekend stay at Park Rotana, including breakfast, plus dinner at Ginger, worth more than Dhs500. For your chance to win, tell us… Which of these film stars has red hair? a) Nicole Kidman b) Penelope Cruz c) Angelina Jolie
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HAKKASAN BRUNCH
Win! A PAMPERED STOPOVER AT ST REGIS
As if escaping the city to Saadiyat Island wasn’t already relaxing, the St Regis is offering an Indulgence Package stay including breakfast and treatments at its excellent spa, Iridium, worth more than Dhs1,650. The spa element includes a 60-minute treatment and a 30-minute facial, plus tea, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. For your chance to win, tell us… WHERE WAS THE ORIGINAL ST REGIS HOTEL? a) New York City b) The North Pole c) The Amazon Rainforest
Continuing to ride high in our Hot Lists, Hakkasan’s Asian flair extends to its weekend affairs. Fancy sampling its traditional Cantonese lunch, Yum Cha, which has just been revamped to celebrate the restaurant’s second anniversary? The prize is for two, with unlimited beverages (cocktails/Italian prosecco) or mocktails and tea, worth up to Dhs700. For your chance to win, tell us… WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING WOULD YOU NOT NORMALLY FIND AT YUM CHA? a) Dim Sum b) Tea c) Heinz tomato soup
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WIN! A meal for two AT LEILA
If you haven’t visited Arabic restaurant Leila in Mirdif City Centre yet, then you’re missing out. From the fresh juices to the authentic mezze, it’s packed with personality. We have Dhs250 to spend during the week at this little hot spot. For your chance to win, just tell us…
Which of these is not a popular Arabic dish? a) FATTOUSH b) HUMMUS c) HAGGIS
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a twO-niGht staY FOR FOUR PEOPLE at
THE SHANGRI-LA BARR AL JISSAH RESORT & SPA IN OMAN
Muscat offers one of the best mini-breaks possible from the UAE, with waters perfect for snorkelling, mountains ideal for exploring and plenty of culture to keep you busy. If you’d like to sample this extraordinary country, there’s nowhere better to stay than the five-star Shangri-La resort, nestled on the stunning coastline. With 17 restaurants and lounges across the property, an outstanding spa and lots of activities (plus an awesome lazy river and even a resident Turtle Ranger), a stay there is one to remember, which is why we’re treating one reader and three friends to a twonight stay at this amazing hotel. For your chance to win a luxury weekend away, simply tell us… How long does it take to fly to Muscat? a) 40 minutes b) Four hours c) 40 hours 30 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
RADO D-STAR GENT AUTOMATIC Hrithik Roshan
WWW.RADO.COM
THE AUTHENTIC
WIN WITH WHAT’S ON
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FOOD/SUNNY FUN AT AL RAHA BEACH HOTEL
Win! AFTERNOON TEA FOR FOUR PEOPLE AT RHODES IN RESIDENCE
We have a total of almost Dhs2,000 in prizes from the generous people at Al Raha Beach Hotel. Five winners will share vouchers for Sevilla’s chocolate brunch for two, the same restaurant’s Seafood, Blues & Jazz night for two, a couple’s weekend beach access, a couple’s weekday beach access and a three-course set menu for two at Mediterranean spot Azur. For your chance to win, tell us…
British chef and friend of What’s On Gary Rhodes knows a thing or two about the traditional afternoon tea, and we’d like one reader and three friends to try his Rhodes In Residence spread at Grosvenor House. On the menu are hot and cold nibbles: think perfectly formed tiny sandwiches, scaled-down desserts and mini crumpets, guaranteed to delight. Tummy rumbling yet? For your chance to win this tasty prize, simply tell us… Which of the following is an afternoon tea essential? a) Scones b) Hot dogs c) Pasta
WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING IS A FAMOUS BEACH IN AUSTRALIA? a) Copacabana b) Santa Monica c)Bondi
Terms & Conditions apply. The editor's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
WIN! AN INDIAN FEAST
at Ushna
One lucky winner will enjoy the chef’s recommended menu at What’s On Abu Dhabi’s favourite Indian restaurant, Ushna. Worth Dhs400, the menu features regional and summer delicacies, all served in the delightful restaurant by the charming staff. For your chance to win, tell us… Which of these is a well-known type of curry? a) Masala b) Llama c) Koala
WIN!
DINNER FOR TWO AND A SPA TREATMENT AT ARMANI HOTEL Those Italians know how to do five-star dining, so we’re treating one reader to a dinner for two at Armani/Ristorante, the hotel’s stunning signature restaurant. We also have a voucher to give away, where one of you can be pampered for 50 minutes in the luxury spa. Don’t say we never give you anything… To win either of these designer prizes, simply tell us… Which building is Armani Hotel situated in? a) The White House b) Buckingham Palace c) Burj Khalifa
32 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
AT MAKE BUSINESS HUB
We can’t get enough of MAKE Business Hub in Dubai Marina, with its hipster-friendly work stations, cool crowd and healthy menu, but come the weekend it transforms from freelancer paradise to brunching hot spot. Boasting dishes like coconut bread with lime marmalade, sage butter scrambled eggs, and the lip-smackingly good lemon soufflé hotcakes with fresh strawberries, we can’t keep it to ourselves, so we have a table for four on offer. For your chance to win, simply tell us…
Which of the following won’t you find at MAKE? a) MEETING PODS b) PETTING ZOO c) A COFFEE BAR
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Win! A DESERT ESCAPE AT
TILAL LIWA HOTEL
Standing proudly at the edge of the Rub Al Khali Desert, the Tilal Liwa Hotel is about as far from urban hustle and bustle as possible in the UAE. Get away from it all with an overnight stay in an Oasis Room with breakfast and dinner for two, worth Dhs1,200. For your chance to win, tell us… BRITISH POP GROUP OASIS ARE FROM WHICH CITY? a) Buenos Aires b) Manchester c) Abu Dhabi
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a BOOstER FaCiaL AT THE ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA
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Who doesn’t need a boost from time to time? Luckily, we have two 25-minute booster facials at the oh-so-lovely spa at The Address Dubai Marina, worth Dhs240 each, to be won. If you’d like to be treated to some pampering, you just need to get this question right.
Souk Al Bahar’s top Thai restaurant is one of Dubai’s tastiest (and spiciest) spots. Famed for its sharing platters and creamy curries, it also offers a Friday and Saturday brunch; we have a table for two waiting for a What’s On reader to claim. Fancy feasting on an appetiser plate, your choice of main course and a dessert platter, plus cocktails? We don’t blame you. For your chance to win, simply tell us.
a) STEAM ROOM b) SAUNA c) DISCO
Which of the following Dubai landmarks can be spotted from Mango Tree’s terrace? a) The Dubai Fountains b) Dragon Mart c) Burj Al Arab
What feature is generally not found in a spa?
BUNCH FOR TWO AT MANGO TREE
T Time Tes is T s hoW fa ery liv your De ? man
The
TakeaWay TesT
The latest instalment of our quest to track down the quickest takeaways sees us try out burger deliveries. Who’s Dubai fastest?
The Takeaway TesT
Downtown ALSO: DIFC
Burger king Delivery time: 29mins Price: Dhs24 for a Chicken Whopper Lite medium meal (plus Dhs5 delivery charge) What’s on verdict: Dialling a Whopper might seem civilised, but what arrives will make you wish you couldn’t. The process was simple, and quite quick, but the meal was a huge disappointment: soggy bun, cheap burger, lukewarm chips and a general air of sadness. Dubai Mall, Dubai, daily 10am to 1am. Tel: (600) 522224. Metro: Dubai Mall. burgerkingme.com
cheeseburger comes plain with pots of coleslaw, tomato and salsa to add yourself. The burger is very much the star here, outshining the average and unsalted fries. The bun is firm and buttered, while the patty is thick, cooked to taste and infused with a nice smoky flavour. Al Wahabi Building, Garhoud, Sun to Thur 11am to midnight, Fri and Sat 8am to 1am. Tel: (04) 2827771. Metro: GGICO. fuddruckers.com
Gourmet Burger kitchen
Chili’s
Delivery time: 20mins Price: Dhs32 for an American Classic (plus Dhs3 delivery charge) What’s on verdict: GBK’s burger arrived hot and at breakneck speed.But while it was cooked medium as requested, the tomato and onion we’d asked to be left off were lurking under the sourdough bun. Once removed, the American Classic was still as bulky as the Hulk in a strop, with plenty of pickles, lashings of mustard and a hearty Black Angus beef burger, offering cracking quality for the price. The Gate, Level B1, DIFC, Dubai, daily noon to 9.30pm. Tel: (800) BURGER (287437). Metro: Financial Centre. gourmetgulf.com
Johnny rockets Delivery time: 22mins Price: Dhs39 for a #12 and Dhs19 for fries (minimum order of Dhs50) What’s on verdict: The definition of a perfect takeaway: helpful chap on the phone, quick delivery and hot food. We enjoyed a juicy, medium-rare patty with chilli ketchup, cheese, pickles, mayo, crunchy salad and a soft bun. The portion of fries was huge, and it was all served in a retro brown paper bag. Al Kawakeb Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, daily noon to midnight. Tel: (800) 564669. Metro: Financial Centre. johnnyrockets.com
Delivery time: 65mins Price: Dhs33 for Old Timer burger, plus fries and a drink (Dhs50 minimum spend and Dhs5 delivery charge) What’s on verdict: This is a serious burger. The supple sesame-seed bun is crammed with lettuce, tomatoes and onions and a large cooked-to-taste beef patty. However, after waiting more than an hour, it was stone cold. The portion of chips was generous and well seasoned, making it all together a solid meal, but when you consider the minimum spend and the delivery time, it becomes harder to swallow. Garhoud Road, Sat to Wed 11am to midnight, Thur 11am to 1am and Fri 1pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 3440088. Metro: GGICO. chilis.com
Jollibee Delivery time: 40mins Price: Dhs24 for Champ Burger and fries What’s on verdict: This Filipino joint’s signature Champ Burger is not the healthiest of options. Two thin, previously frozen, bland meat patties bundled with a huge slice of tomato, some lettuce and “secret” pink sauce makes this a cheap and filling option, but certainly not a gourmet choice. Round Table Pizza, Eppco, Garhoud, daily 11am to 1am. Tel: (04) 2820666. jollibee.com
mirdif
ALSO: DeIRA/BUR DUBAI
ALSO: AL WARQA/ INTeRNATIONAL CITY/ RAShIDIYAh
fuddruckers
Gourmet Burger kitchen
Garhoud Delivery time: 28mins Price: Dhs36 for 1/3lb cheeseburger and fries What’s on verdict: Fuddruckers
Delivery time: 24mins Price: Dhs51 for cheeseburger and fries What’s on verdict: GBK’s attractive
cheeseburger – a thick patty, crispy lettuce and real melted cheese – arrived hot. You can even choose whether you want your chips thin or chunky – a nice touch. The one complaint would be that the beef patty was under seasoned. Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif, daily 10am to 10pm. Tel: (800) 287437. gourmetgulf.com
fatburger Delivery time: 20mins Price: Dhs33 for a single Fatburger and fries What’s on verdict: Fatburger does the simple things very well. Delivered quickly, the classic Fatburger offered a small but thick meat patty, crisp, fresh lettuce and a chunk of tomato. It’s cheap, quick and delicious – with a huge portion of piping-hot thin-cut fries. Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif, daily 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 2843741. fatburgeruae.com
Johnny rockets Delivery time: 23mins Price: Dhs66 for The Original and fries (plus Dhs10 delivery charge) What’s on verdict: Its lofty prices, this nostalgic popshop has long been a Dubai favourite. The hefty burger arrived quickly, with the thick beef patty cooked to taste and packed with flavour. There are no shortcuts taken on quality at JR’s – they even have Heinz ketchup sachets. The quality of the delivery is identical to the eat-in, which is great, but without the kitsch surroundings we struggle to see just why it costs so much. Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif, daily,10am to 10pm. Tel: (800) 564669. johnnyrockets.com
arabian ranches ALSO: MOTOR CITY
kfC Delivery time: 30mins Price: Dhs19 for Zinger Burger with fries What’s on verdict: Although delivered with so much enthusiasm the deliveryman was out of breath, the Zinger arrived slightly cold. A huge well-cooked chicken breast, with a slight june 2012 WHAT’S ON 35
The Takeaway TesT spiciness, tasted typically “finger lickin’ good”. However, the temperature, or lack of it, coupled with a serving of bland fries, bumps the Zinger experience down the rankings a spot or two. Motor City, The Walk, Dubai, daily 8am to 3am. Tel: (600) 522252. kfc.com
london fish & Chips Delivery time: 26mins Price: Dhs15 for Sharky Burger with fries What’s on verdict: After spending some time on the telephone establishing that, no, Arabian Ranches does not have any apartments, the Sharky arrived hot, with plenty of flaky white fish in light crispy batter poking out of the soft bun. Although classed as a “kid’s meal,” the Sharky is full of flavour and great value for money. Motor City, The Walk, Dubai, daily 9am to 2am. Tel: (04)4477203. londonfish-chips.com
Wendy’s Delivery time: 31mins
What’s on verdict: You know where you are with this London chain; they produce a consistently decent burger. Arriving warm, our thick, slightly overdone patty, garnished with the classic lettuce, tomato and onion trio, in a soft, white bun was solid, if not a gold medal winner. The fries are actually thick cut chips and a little pale for our tastes. A couple more minutes in the fryer would have done the trick. Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 3997705. Metro: Dubai Marina. gourmetgulf.com
Price: Dhs24 for Dave’s Hot ’N’ Juicy Double with fries What’s on verdict: Hot ‘n’ juicy is indeed the perfect description for this Wendy’s burger. With the two tender medium-cooked patties, infused with a strong beefy taste, it almost melted in the mouth. There’s also a Hot ’N’ Juicy BBf (Best Burgers forever) Triple for anyone brave enough to tackle it. Delivery time: 26mins Motor City, The Walk, Dubai, daily 8am to 3am. Price: Dhs48, plus Dhs5 delivery for a double Tel: (600) 529990. wendys.com cheeseburger, fries and soft drink What’s on verdict: While their cheaplooking website didn’t fill us with much ALSO: DISCOveRY GARDeNS/ confidence, and their name probably less so, BBF (Best Burgers Forever) surprised us. JLT/eMIRATeS hILLS/The MeADOWS/The SPRINGS/The Delivery was a fairly speedy 26 minutes from the Marina to The Greens, and the double GReeNS/TeCOM/AL BARShA/ cheeseburger was a thick, weighty patty of AL QUOZ Black Angus beef, which looked and tasted the Johnny rockets part. The chips lacked crunch, and felt slightly undercooked, but if you’re in need of some Delivery time: 20mins serious stodge then you could do worse than Price: Dhs66 for The Original and fries give the burger a go. What’s on verdict: Both burger and huge Marina 1st Tower, Dubai Marina, Sat to Wed portion of fries arrive hot, with the burger made 11am to midnight, Thur to Fri 11am to 5am. up of a light, airy bun, well-seasoned patty Tel: (800) 996. bbfonline.net (no grease) and the traditional combo of crisp iceberg lettuce, tomato, onions, relish, pickle, mustard and mayo, and the fries thin and crisp. Marina Walk, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily noon ALSO: SATWA to midnight. Tel: (04) 3682339. Metro: Nakheel. Chili’s johnnyrockets.com
Dubai marina
Jumeirah
Gourmet Burger kitchen Delivery time: 30mins Price: Dhs46 for Classic with GBK fries (plus Dhs4 delivery charge) 36 WHAT’S ON june 2012
Delivery time: 44mins Price: Dhs29 for an Old Timer (plus Dhs3 delivery charge) What’s on verdict: While it’s far from a gourmet burger, Chili’s traditional lettuce/
pickle/mustard condiment combo was crunchyfresh and plentiful, while the thick beef patty was well seasoned and the warm poppyseed bun large enough to satisfy a front row forward in the off season. The home-style fries (skin on) were a bonus. Jumeirah Beach Road, next to Emirates Hospital, Dubai, 11.30am to 10.30pm. Tel: (04) 3440088. chilisme.com
fatburger Delivery time: 17mins Price: Dhs57 for a Fatburger with cheese and egg What’s on verdict: A superior burger delivered in record time, but not cheap. The extra toppings of egg and cheese will set you back Dhs10 a pop, but the ultra juicy beef patty, with the egg on the bottom and cheese on the top, acting as edible bookends, ensure the bun stays toasty soft. It also scores the green vote for its environmentally friendly brown bag and cardboard box packaging. Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, 12pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 3945296. fatburger.com
TGi fridays Delivery time: 40mins Price: Dhs32 for a Cheeseburger (plus Dhs5 transport fee and minimum order of Dhs80) What’s on verdict: OMG TGI Fridays! You’d have to be one hungry caterpillar to find any joy in scoffing this lacklustre burger. The pale, colourless and wilted-edged salad was accompanied by a butterless bun that smelled suspiciously like the styrofoam and plastic packaging it came in. The processed cheese had melted and then cooled like molten lava to the brittle beef patty which, though inedible, could come in handy as a frisbee. The hand-cut potato chips were ace, though. Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah, 11am to 11pm Tel: (600) 523334. fridays.com
back
to life
E v a n E s c E n c E E x p l o d E d o n t o t h E m u s i c s c E n E n E a r ly a s o l d m i l l i o n s o f r E c o r d s , pa c k E d o u t a r E n a s , a w a r d s a n d t h E n p r o m p t ly v a n i s h E d .
38 WHAT’S ON June 2012
last year saw Evanescence return, with a self-titled album, and this month sees the band make their dubai debut. singer amy lee tells us exactly why the band went off the radar, and what has been keeping her busy over the years
a
fter a five-year absence, Evanescence returned last year with their long-awaited, self-titled third album. Since erupting out of nowhere (aka Arkansas) in 2003 with mega-single Bring Me To Life, Evanescence became one of the biggest rock bands on the face of the planet virtually overnight. While music critics prematurely dismissed them as ‘Linkin Park with a girl singer’, that didn’t stop their 2003 debut album Fallen from selling 15 million copies. In fact, Evanescence’s debut outsold virtually every other album released that year. Their second album, 2006’s The Open Door, sold millions too. Then, in late 2007, touring finished and Evanescence just… disappeared.
dEcadE ago, won two grammy
So where have they been? And, perhaps more importantly, where are they going next? While the band had achieved all of their wildest dreams with Fallen, they’d also endured a lot of strife. In 2003, founding band member/cosongwriter Ben Moody quit midtour, and was later followed by drummer Rocky Gray, guitarist John LeCompt and bassist William Boyd. As if becoming the sole original member wasn’t bad enough, singer Amy Lee also entered into a legal wrangle with ex-manager Dennis Rider and went through a painfully public romantic split/spat with Seether singer Shaun Morgan. Somehow, out of that debris, The Open Door emerged as a much more sophisticated, intimate, and artistic offering – selling some five million copies and re-silencing Evanescence’s critics and ex-band members. After proving that her band was still blooming Amy found personal happiness too, marrying her one-
time psychiatrist, Josh Hartzler. Analyse that… Just over a year later, the band was gone. “By the end of the tour, I just wanted to be nested, be married and be normal and not have my life centred around myself and Evanescence,” Lee explains with a soft sigh. “My whole life had been centred around being ‘the girl from Evanescence’.” She was, she says, very happy, and wanted to be happy full-time. It was time to make a clean break. “I had a conversation with the rest of the band,” she recalls. “They knew. It was a case of, ‘When this is done, I just want to do our own thing for a while. Possibly forever’.” Just like that, Amy Lee walked through her own open door and then closed it firmly behind her. The band may have been in limbo, but Amy Lee was not. With the group in stasis she finally had a chance to rediscover who she was outside of the multi million-selling phenomenon and figure out what June 2012 WHAT’S ON 39
she really wanted. Since she had been in high school, her whole life had gone into Evanescence and that meant that she wasn’t just plain old Amy Lee anymore – she belonged to her band, her management, her label and millions of fans across the world. “I wouldn’t say that I was depressed, but I had to pull the plug,” Lee says. “I had to step away from Evanescence in a big way, as if I might never do 40 WHAT’S ON June 2012
Fallen with the delicate artistry of The Open Door, the self-titled record is a hugely accomplished reintroduction to the world. There’s no doubt about it, the world has changed since Evanescence last shifted millions of records. Back then, Twitter the curtains. I got two cats, took wasn’t a way of life, Paramore up the concert harp and hung out were playing academies and Lady with friends and family.” Gaga was only playing to herself It was a noble and necessary in her bedroom. Last year, Limp attempt to re-inherit her identity Bizkit’s Gold Cobra proved that once fame and public beefs had millions sold in the past doesn’t started to blur its lines. But if one always translate into millions sold thing is very clear from talking to in the present. Amy, it’s that she’s an artist who “I really believe this album loves making music and talking has the potential to reach a lot of about it. She’s an artist in a people, I really do,” she smiles. million-selling rock band and she “I have realised that there’s needed to make music again. And no expiration date on making privately, under the radar, that’s something great. You just have to exactly what she did, making write music that you love.” what she affectionately describes And while the resurrection of as something that was “half Evanescence is a big objective for solo album, half Evanescence the singer, she has another aim weirdness”. While she loved these embedded within it. electronica-inspired songs, there “I always want to try to present was a problem. a more complete picture of “It was so important to me at myself,” she says. “I always end up first to get away from being that feeling like people still don’t know same thing again and again, but at me. More and more I want to try some point along the way I found and portray my whole self, rather that it wasn’t complete,” Lee says. than just a part of it. I make music, “Like there were two halves and I people like it. Other than that, had to choose to either do my own we’re totally on the same level. I thing or come back and do another think that’s really important to Evanescence record.” bear in mind for my sanity.” Then came the revelation. And that’s when Amy Lee “I realised that Evanescence strikes upon the fundamental was the real me, that there was change at the heart of nothing to run Evanescence – the from.” one that she’s been Evanescence – working towards that’s Amy, Terry, since day one, the Troy, Tim and same one that’s not Will – decamped only revived her to Nashville, band after years in Tennessee in April the wilderness, but last year, where they also looks set to Evanescence again. That was started recording carry them into an so good for my head because I the album. Living even brighter future. needed to feel not completely together in college It’s a simple enough defined by the band. It’s a really dorm-style statement, but one cool part of me but it’s not apartments, they that reveals a lot. everything - your whole life being picked up where “I like myself,” consumed with one project is a they left off and she says as a smile big commitment.” began hammering spreads across her What did she do? She went to out songs with super-producer face. “I’m finally cool with me.” New York and stayed put. Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Jun 22, Dubai World Trade Centre, “Obviously I didn’t have to get Alice In Chains). By mid-July, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 8pm, a nine to five job,” she smiles. “I they were finished. Combining from Dhs295. Metro: World Trade bought a house, decorated, did all the anthemic immediacy of Centre. evanescence.com
“i realised that evanescence was the real me, that there was nothing to run from”
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FILM
NEW RELEASES
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted
Prometheus
Snow White And The Huntsman
Prometheus
Snow White And The Huntsman
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted
WHO?
Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, Charlize Theron, Ridley Scott (director)
Charlize Theron, Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Ian McShane, Rupert Sanders (director)
Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, Jada Pinkett Smith, Frances McDormand, Sacha Baron Cohen
TAGLINE
‘They went looking for our beginning. What they found could be our end.’
‘From the producer of Alice In Wonderland.’
‘They have one shot to get back home.’
ONCE UPON A TIME...
A crew journeyed deep into space in search of the origins of humanity, following the discovery of a star map linking several ancient cultures.
The rugged chap, tasked in the original Snow White with disposing of the fair youngster to satisfy the evil queen’s vanity, turned against her and decided to help our heroine out of her fix.
Following the animals’ successful bid to escape to Africa, they sought to return to New York – ending up stranded in Monte Carlo and joining a traveling circus for protection.
IDEAL IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD TO...
Pretend to chew over one or two weighty issues – the hows and whys of mankind, no less – while actually just chewing through a big-name popcorn sci-fi fest.
Watch Chris Hemsworth being implausibly gruff and manly – again – just like he was in Thor and, more recently, Avengers Assemble.
Play ‘guess the celebrity voice actor’ while indulging your inner child with an appealing blend of anthropomorphic capers and whizz-bang visuals (now with a new 3D edge).
WATCH THIS IF YOU LIKE...
Scott’s Alien series, to which this is a very loose prequel – although co-writer Damon Lindelof rejigged the script to make it less a direct relative and more an extrapolation from Alien’s core themes.
The original Snow White for the story – but for a better indication of tone and style, think somewhere between Lord Of The Rings and Sleepy Hollow.
Either of the first two films in the series, or any of a host of other animal-led knockabouts including Finding Nemo and Happy Feet.
TOP TRIVIA
Artist HR Giger – designer of the original film’s alien monsters – also had a hand in creating the reverse-engineered versions seen here.
Names associated with the titular huntsman role before Hemsworth bagged it included (predictably enough) Johnny Depp, Viggo Mortensen, Michael Fassbender and Tom Hardy.
Don’t come expecting absolute closure – apparently, there’s already a fourth movie planned for some time in the future.
WHAT’S ON TEN WORD OR LESS REVIEW
Scott and his extraterrestrials still deliver a powerful chill.
Suitably lush visuals, but reworking the tale adds little charm.
Few surprises, but the established format still delivers the goods.
RATE OR SLATE? 42 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
★★★★✩
★★✩✩✩
★★★★✩
Rowdy Rathore
Men In Black 3
Moonrise Kingdom
Rock Of Ages
Men In Black 3
Rock Of Ages
Rowdy Rathore
Moonrise Kingdom
Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Alice Eve, Barry Sonnenfeld (director), Steven Spielberg (exec producer)
Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Adam Shankman (director)
Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Paresh Ganatra, Kareena Kapoor, Prabhu Deva (director), Sajid Wajid (music)
Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, Wes Anderson (director)
‘Back to the past… to save the future.’
‘Nothin’ but a good time.’
‘Don’t anger me!’
None.
Agent J (Smith), upon learning of a past threat to the existence of Earth and his buddy Agent K (Jones), had to nip back through space-time to defeat an alien nemesis in swingin’ 1969.
A lowly waitress fell in love with an equally lowly busboy at an 1980s glam-metal show, and a smash-hit rock musical was born. Then, uh, made into a film.
Low-level conman Shiva (Kumar) fell in love with Priya (Sinha) while gatecrashing a wedding, but repeat attempts on his life by a gang of local hoods soon begin to complicate the budding affair.
Two childhood sweethearts fled their homes on a 1960s New England island, prompting a search party headed up by Captain Sharp (Willis) to look for them.
Jazz up the traditional MIB offering – wisecracking aliens into oblivion, essentially – with a dash of Back To The Future-esque decade hopping.
Boost your barnet with three cans of hairspray and wig out to a cavalcade of irony-free power ballads while not particularly caring about the fairly weak story linking them together.
Lose yourself in a few highoctane action sequences while jiving along to Wajid’s hotly anticipated soundtrack, including the already popular hit Dhadang Dhang Dhang.
Indulge in a few quirkily emotional set pieces – Wes Anderson’s films tend to set such a specific mood that it’s hard not to know exactly whose work you’re viewing from the outset.
Either of the previous Men In Black films or the aforementioned Back To The Future franchise would be the obvious choices.
This Is Spinal Tap, although don’t expect Rock Of Ages to amass anything like Tap’s level of cult following – like the musical, this movie plays it a little straight for comfort at times.
The smash-hit 2006 Telugu film Vikramarkudu, of which this is a fairly straight-up remake.
Pretty much any of Anderson’s previous works – Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums or The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou will all give you a strong flavour of his typical output.
It’s the first time we’ve seen Will Smith in a lead role (or indeed any role) since Seven Pounds back in December ’08 – the longest break of his career to date.
At least the star spotters will be satisfied…the cast list also boasts Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, Mary J Blige and Bryan Cranston of Breaking Bad TV fame.
Look out for a welcome cameo from well-loved actor and playback singer Vijay, strutting his stuff as a dancer during the track Chinta Ta Chita.
Moonrise Kingdom marks Anderson’s sixth collaboration with Bill Murray, who starred in the three films mentioned above, plus The Darjeeling Limited and Fantastic Mr. Fox.
Brolin adds significant value to the tried and tested formula.
As cheesy as they come – but that’s why you’re here.
Not the box office dynamite Vikramarkudu was, but fun enough.
Typical Anderson, of course, and all the better for it.
★★★✩✩
June 15 (PREVIEW)
June 1 (PREVIEW)
★★★★✩ JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 43
Swing by Emirates Golf Club for the Euros
Football Central is back! Join us in our dedicated venue for people who love football. Cheer on your team as they compete for European football’s biggest prize live on over 15 screens, meaning that you won’t miss a minute of the action. Tables start from just AED 290 for four guests inclusive of a Euro snack platter and eight house beverages or AED 690 for a table of 10 with two snack platters and 20 selected beverages.
To reserve your table and guarantee your seats, call +971 4 417 9999 or email football@dubaigolf.com www.dubaigolf.com
WHAT’S ON
EATING OUT Reviews, recipes, columnists and the latest food news
KEY @WhatsOnFish scale SUSTAINABILITY RATING No local fish, or only overfished local species e.g. Hammour At least one sustainable local fish dish, but also one or more overfished local species More than one sustainable local fish dish, but also one or more overfished local species At least one sustainable local fish dish, no overfished local species Several sustainable local fish dishes, no overfished local species
Table 9
Fully signed up members of the Choosewisely.ae campaign serving only local, sustainable fish species
p47 TITANIC · p51 THE CONNOISSEUR · p55 THE CHEF · p56 ON THE MENU JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 45
Don’t know where to
Brunch?
Friday Brunch at Certo An Italian-style Friday brunch with a selection of dishes served at your table. Available from 12:00 to 15:30 hours
Saturday Fun Brunch at Chef’s House Let someone else cook while you entertain at the Saturday Fun Brunch at Chef ’s House. Available from 12:30 to 15:30 hours
The kids have their own fun area, with toys and entertainment. Brunch with soft drinks @ AED 140 Brunch with alcoholic house beverages @ AED 190 Brunch with Prosecco @ AED 210 Half price eating for everyone aged 6 – 12 years! Children under the age of six, brunch for free!
The kids have their own fun area, with buffet and entertainment including a bouncing castle. Full buffet with soft drinks @ AED 135 Full buffet with alcoholic house beverages @ AED 180 Half price eating for everyone aged 6-12 years! Children under the age of six, lunch for free!
Half price eating for everyone aged 6 – 12 years! Children under the age of six, brunch for free!
For bookings please call the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City on 04 366 9111
ICON Bar & Lounge English Friday Brunch ICON Bar & Lounge at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City is continuing its British Brunch every Friday from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at an even better price ay only AED 129 per person.
EATING OUT
FOOD EDITOR'S LETTER As I write this I am recovering from a month of eating unlikely to be matched for millennia to come (or next month, most likely). It started with scoffing burgers for our delivery test (p30), but I didn’t really hit my stride until a few days ago, which saw me eating at five restaurants in six nights. That’s at least three courses and two hours per meal. No less than ten hours of solid chomping, slurping and guzzling. Add in breakfast, elevenses, lunch, afternoon tiffin and supper, and I’d wager I’ve spent well in excess of ten per cent of the time in the act of eating. Now, I know it’s my job and all, but I think that’s pretty impressive. Can any of you match that? If you can, please e-mail me and wow me with tales of your gluttony. Now, to the restaurants in question. This month saw the opening of the new Melia Dubai and its two celeb chef restaurants: Titanic By Marco Pierre White (p47) and Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor (p50). You can read all about them right here, as well as Abu Dhabi’s latest Thai restaurant Silk & Spice (p50) and the new menus at Traiteur, Table 9 By Nick And Scott, Kitchen 45 and Rhodes Mezzanine (p53). If you’re not reeling after all that (I certainly am), then we also have Gary Rhodes’ failsafe recipe for mini victoria sponges (p55), Rivington Grill’s classic apple crumble (p48), The Connoisseur (p51) and more food news than is sensible for one to imbibe (p56). Enjoy this month's Eating Out. I’m off to lie down.
Gareth Rees Food Editor
If you have any comments or opinions on Eating Out or the UAE food scene, please e-mail gareth@motivate.ae
Titanic
By Marco Pierre White It’s located in the new fivestar Melia Dubai, but how brightly does celeb chef Marco Pierre White’s latest Dubai restaurant shine?
W
e tried to refrain from mentioning the name. Honest, we did. But the latest UAE restaurant to be associated with the great chef-turnedrestaurateur Marco Pierre White is, undeniably, named after a big ship, in fact the big ship, which famously sank. Titanic was just bobbing around there, waiting for us to dive in with a poop deck full of puns. So here it goes. The new Melia Dubai – the first Middle East property from successful Spanish group Melia Hotels & Resorts – is braving hazardous seas dropping anchor in the rather bedraggled bay of Bur Dubai. But we would like to think the slick, boutique-style vessel – and the restaurants that sail in her – is going to signal (with a blast on the ships horn, naturally) an old Dubai renaissance, avoiding the fate of Titanic’s unfortunate namesake. If it is to manage that feat, its two signature restaurants, Titanic By Marco Pierre White and Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor (see p50), will be the captain and trusty first mate responsible for guiding it safely in to port. It is not the first time MPW has jumped on board a restaurant project named after the illfated boat, having endorsed the failed Titanic mark one at London’s Regent Palace Hotel in the late 1990s–early noughties, but the Dubai model, its decor harking back to the opulence @WhatsOnFish scale SUSTAINABILITY RATING: With no local fish, it’s a zero.
of the early 20th century, appeared buoyant enough. Even if the music was truly dreadful. The menu, neatly fitted onto one page, is classic European grill: cold cuts, hors d’oeuvres, salads, meat, fish and seafood, dessert and cheese. Simple, unfussy and safe – a crowd pleaser. A plate blanketed in thin slivers of good quality beef bresaola –meaty, not at all bland, as is often the case – with an orb of mozzarella, followed by a chilled tomato soup with a nice hint of chilli and three (one or two more would have been nice) ice-cool langoustines, represented a solid, if not extraordinary, start, and both dishes were beautifully presented. Then came a firm but perfectly grilled halibut steak served with a handful of tiny pink shrimps bathing in a classic brown butter, lemon and caper (Grenobloise) sauce, the pearly flesh sliding from the bone like slow-cooked meat. But it was the 250g rib eye in a rich herb sauce with half a dozen plump escargot that really stood out. No bragging about the meat’s provenance, an inoffensive NEED TO KNOW Dhs150 price Location: Kuwait Street, tag and plenty of Port Rashid, Bur Dubai, flavour – a real Dubai brasserie beauty. Tel: (04) 3868111 It is, perhaps, a Metro: Al Karama strange criticism Web: melia-dubai.com for a classic jumble Open: daily 7pm to of meringue, 11pm, bar/lounge 7pm strawberries and to 2am cream, but a huge Cuisine type: European Eton mess was a Must eat: rib-eye steak little too sweet, with escargot and herbs while a small Bill for two: Dhs630 selection of English without alcohol and French cheese was more adequate than revelatory. IN TWEET FORM But, all in all, we Marco Pierre White’s were happy to latest Dubai venture sail on the good Titanic is sure to ship Titanic survive longer than its and, barring the unseaworthy namesake. appearance of a Follow us at huge iceberg in @WhatsOnDubai and Bur Dubai, it is @WhatsOnAbuDhabi unlikely to sink. JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 47
EATING OUT
Cook a classic
METHOD For the apple compote: Wash, peel and quarter the apples. Remove the core and cut into one-inch chunks. Melt the butter and vanilla on a medium heat until hot. Add half the apples, along with some of the caster sugar and cook until soft. Repeat with the remaining apples and caster sugar. Place in a container to chill.
Apple crumble
Rivington Grill pastry chef Manish Thakur cooks apple crumble
1
3
2
4
INGREDIENTS
5
6
For the crumble topping: * 125g softened unsalted butter * 250g all-purpose flour or cake flour * 90g caster sugar * one egg
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For the apple compote: * 50g unsalted butter. * one vanilla pod (split and scraped) or 1tsp vanilla extract * 1kg granny smith apples * 200g caster sugar
For the custard sauce: * 600ml whipping cream * one vanilla pod (split and scraped) or 1tsp vanilla extract * 200g egg yolk * 100g caster sugar
48 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
For the crumble topping: Place the butter and flour in a large bowl and rub together with your fingers, until you achieve a breadcrumb consistency. Add the sugar and mix until combined. Break the egg into a small bowl and add small amounts until the mixture starts to come together. You might only need half of the egg. The mixture should be slightly dry and crumbly. Spread onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes until set. Once firm, crumble the mixture through your fingers to break it up. For the custard: Place the cream and vanilla in a heavy-bottomed medium sauc epan over a medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and sugar. Add the warm cream to the eggs, then pour the mixture back into the saucepan and return to the stove on a low heat. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick enough coat to the back of a spoon. Strain the custard through a sieve to remove any lumps. Put the apple compote in a casserole dish and cover with crumble topping. Bake at 190ËšC for 15 minutes, until the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and dust with icing sugar. Gently warm the custard over a low heat and pour over the top. NEXT MONTH: SUSHI
12 dining and entertainment venues
SZRdining.com
EATING OUT
Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor Can celeb chef Sanjeev Kapoor offer something more than old Dubai’s many magnificent Indian restaurants do?
Silk & Spice
Can Sofitel’s latest offering fill a gap in the market for a reliable Thai restaurant?
U
ntil now Indego By Vineet at Grosvenor House has provided a yardstick for innovative Indian cuisine in Dubai, but Vineet Bhatia now has a worthy rival in the form of fellow chef-restaurateur Sanjeev Kapoor and his new Signature restaurant. Tucked away in a comfortable corner of the new Melia Dubai with just a few tables, a live teppanyaki-style (though of course it will service Indian cuisine) cooking counter, which was yet to open when we visited, and a small private dining area lit up by an open flame feature (not as dangerous as it sounds), it is cosy in comparison to Marco Pierre White’s showier Titanic (p47). There is also a 50-seater terrace, but that won’t come into its own until after the summer. We were the first people, excluding a handful of test subjects, to dine at Signature, but the kitchen was on top form. To
start we enjoyed a dish of mildly spiced crab anari (small crab cakes) and barely fried scallops, uncharacteristically served with a finely chopped tabouleh and a tomato chutney – fusion done well – and two huge tandoorcooked chicken legs, flavoured with the faintly sour taste of tamarind balanced by a selection of light spices. Both dishes were exemplary. Mains were a nicely roasted leg of lamb in a rich, creamy sauce steam cooked in a gharha (an earthenware pot), and a Syrian-influenced dish of duck, stewed and then finished in a tawa (griddle pan). The cooking process left the outside of the meat quite dry but gave it a pleasant chewiness, and the blend of dry spices used were judged to perfection. A side order of beetroot and orange raita added a welcome fruity edge, and the toothachingly sweet trio of desserts – deep fried dough balls soaked in rosewater syrup (gulab @WhatsOnFish scale SUSTAINABILITY RATING: jamun), With hammour on the menu, it’s a zero for Signature. grainy
50 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
paneer spheres in condensed milk (rasmalai) and a thick pistachio and raisin yoghurt a little like a panna cotta (bhapa doi) – provided a pleasant finish.
NEED TO KNOW
Location: Melia Dubai, Kuwait Street, Port Rashid, Bur Dubai, Dubai Tel: (04) 3868111 Metro: Al Karama Web: melia-dubai.com Open: daily 7pm to 11pm Cuisine type: Indian Must eat: tamarind glazed tandoori chicken Bill for two: Dhs650 (without alcohol)
IN TWEET FORM
Celeb chef Sanjeev Kapoor brings inventive Indian cooking to old Dubai with one of the most exciting new menus in town. Follow us at @WhatsOnDubai and @WhatsOnAbuDhabi
Abu Dhabi doesn’t enjoy an abundance of contemporary Thai restaurants. Aside from a handful of mall-based concessions and a smattering of antiquated fixtures, in fact, the Sofitel’s recently opened Silk & Spice more or less lands in a culinary category all of its own. The interior augurs well: the most exciting feature is the sunken dining tables, allowing for guests to be served by kneeling waitresses at floor level. Our table for two wasn’t as noteworthy, but the Thai hostess was no less attentive, cheekily forewarning of the spiciest extremes of the menu, lest our palates be overwhelmed. Before regular water top-ups became essential, the yam woon sen talay (glass noodle salad with seafood) proved a mild and sensible starter. But the promised spice came in the form of a classic Thai green curry; thankfully it wasn’t overpowering, with just enough heat to remind your tongue of its existence. Hearty is not usually an adjective used to describe Thai cuisine, but the massaman nua – a stew of beef sirloin in a sauce of coconut milk, nuts, tamarind and spices – was atypically robust, perhaps a sign of its Middle Eastern origins. The delectably sweet khao niew mamuang (mango with sticky rice), a staple of every Thai restaurant on the planet, proved the standout dish. Sofitel, Capital Plaza Complex, Corniche Road East, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Sat 6pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 8137777. sofitel.com
The connoisseur
Rob McCaughey, manager of wine merchant Rootstock, explains how to tell your Rieslings from your sekts Germany has some of the most northerly vineyards in the world. Due to its relatively harsh climate, most of the vineyards are found on south-facing slopes to ensure maximum exposure to the sun’s rays, generally in river valleys such as the Rhine or Mosel, where the water helps to moderate the evening temperature and reflect the warmth of the sun. Although Germany produces Müller-Thurgau and sylvaner to pinot gris, and even pinot noir, German wine is synonymous with the Riesling grape. With mouthwatering acidity, full fruit flavours and a long finish, Germany really is the spiritual home of the Riesling grape. Offering relatively low alcohol levels and little, if any, oak, German Rieslings allow the character of the grape to express itself to the fullest. The best examples, whether dry or sweet, have finesse and subtlety. The sweeter styles focus on fruit flavours, while the drier styles focus on power and precision. The Pfalz region – just across the border from France’s Alsace, where the climate is warmer than Germany’s – can produce some fabulous dry wines.
Look out for ‘grosses gewächs’ (great growths) on a bottle. Although not a legally recognised classification, it’s an indication of a drystyle Riesling from the best vineyards of the Pfalz. Perhaps one of Germany’s best-kept secrets is its affinity for sparkling wine (sekt). Germany consumes more sparkling wine per capita than any other country on the planet, and it’s drunk at every occasion. Although Riesling is most commonly used, some winemakers have had success with chardonnay, and there are some great rosés made from pinot noir grapes. German wine has had some bad press over the years, and a lot of the responsibility for that rests on the winemakers’ heads: exports during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s were dominated by poor quality, overly sweet wines, which did little for Germany’s credibility as a wineproducing nation. But with German temperatures rising due to climate change, and a new wave of young dynamic winemakers embracing lower yields and new techniques, the future of the German wine industry seems to be in good hands.
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NEXT MONTH: PORTUGUESE WINE JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 51
EATING OUT
TRIED AND TESTED
NEW MENUS OUR VERDICT ON FOUR NEW MENUS
TRAITEUR With chef Simon Wipf now at the helm, Traiteur has a new menu. While still embracing the restaurant’s très Français ways, dishes also have a Mediterranean slant, perfectly suited to the ingredients of summer. Highlights include roast saddle of lamb with slow cooked fevettes and paimpol beans, a tropical take on crème brûlée, with coconut Malibu ice cream and an elegant lavender ice parfait with red and black berries. Classics like onion soup, chateaubriand and gratin dauphinois remain, plus Simon’s own take on Nicoise salad has been added, but for a true taste of the season opt for the new chef ’s interpretations of traditional French cuisine, such as duck foie gras terrine with strawberry, rhubarb and sarawak pepper. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3172222. dubai.park.hyatt.com
TABLE 9 BY NICK AND SCOTT Of the ‘small plates’ on T9's spring menu, scallops are given a Chinese twist with a hoisin, cashew and grape sauce, the pop of pomegranate seeds and the crunch of hazelnut bring the best out of two slices of pigeon, and a dish of foie gras, Szechuan pepper and gingerbread is inspired. The ‘large plates’ are similarly innovative: veal with parsnip and sweetbreads, the intense chicken flavour of guinea fowl paired with the salty crunch of crispy ham, and a dish of duck, red cabbage and maple syrup could have done without the swede but otherwise was a triumph. Rhubarb and custard would have benefitted from a touch of spice to balance the sweetness, but you can’t win ‘em all, now, can you? Superb. Hilton Dubai Creek, Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 2271131. Metro: Deira City Centre. table9dubai.com
(Clockwise, from top left) Traiteur • Rhodes Mezzanine • Table 9 By Nick and Scott • Kitchen 45
RHODES MEZZANINE
KITCHEN 45
One thing Gary Rhodes does better than anyone else is sell a dish to you. Ox cheek pie with steamed oysters and gravy. Who in their right mind (veggies aside) would not order that? And, though the gravy could have done with more depth of flavour, it was as good as it sounds. Sweet white onion soup and a baked goat’s cheese soufflé were a perfect combination. Tournedos of mutton in an Irish stew as “buttery” as promised was as comforting as a lamb’s wool blanket. Toasted marshmallow meringue with rhubarb compote, sorbet and vanilla custard was exceedingly sweet but make the serving slightly smaller and it would be delightful. Grosvenor House Dubai, Tower One, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Monday to Saturday 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3998888. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com
Chef Maxime Le Van has given some real character and direction to Kitchen 45's menu of Provençal dishes. Four Gillardeau oysters with shallot vinegar were delectably fleshy. The addition of caramelised plum gave a burrata salad a nice, sweet edge, and cuttlefish came bathed in a curried sauce of its own ink; a strong contender for best dish we’ve eaten this month. While a lovely piece of turbot with toasted pine kernels, pickled onions and an orange sauce represented a clever combination of flavours, the smoked pumpkin risotto with truffle and pecorino was the weakest of the dishes but by no means a disaster, and a pear tart showed the kitchen has talent in the pastry department, too. Embassy, Grosvenor House Dubai, Tower Two, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 7.30pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 53
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Eating Out
MINI CITRUS VICTORIA SPONGES MAKES 12 CAKES
"There's nothing better than inviting friends over and enjoying a homemade afternoon tea"
The chef
but nothing beats making it yourself, and this version has that nice little citrus bite behind it – lemon and strawberry is a great combination. Don’t be afraid of baking. This is a short and simple recipe with only a few ingredients – it’s very basic. Everybody has these ingredients sitting in their cupboards. It won’t be a disaster or a waste of money if you fail, but this recipe is fool proof, as long as you own a food processor. You can even make it by putting all the ingredients into the food processor together with a splash of milk. It his is a nice introduction to the first month might not be quite as light as doing it in stages but it of summer. A lot of fruits still aren’t at will still work. The baking powder is your guarantee. their very best, but the strawberry starts If you wanted to make this into something even reasonably early. By June, it’s showing off at more British – Chantilly cream is a French invention its very best – it’s an introduction to the delicious – then clotted cream would work well. If you don’t fruit to come in the next couple of months. have jam, chop up the strawberries, put a little touch I make these little Victoria sponges, the size of icing sugar on to them, a bit of clotted cream – job of small muffins. The weather here is just getting done. You could add a touch of freshly chopped mint hotter right now, and so people are going to be to the sponge, which would work very well with the looking for something to do at home, and there’s strawberries. What I like is for everybody to take a nothing better than inviting friends over and dish and put their personality into it. Maybe take a enjoying a homemade afternoon tea. These sponges large baking tray, cut the sponge into strips, ten or are perfect for that. 12 inches long and three inches wide, lay the sponge Victoria sponge is something we all remember out very thinly and create layers: strawberries, jam, from days of old but you don’t see it done well cream, more sponge, and so on. Put a plain one very often these days. You can go out and buy it, on top, dust it with icing sugar and you’ve created a Victoria sponge millefeuille. Simple, but wow. Omit a little touch of the flour and you could even put some almonds into that as well. Maybe some chopped hazelnuts. It’s the perfect thing to eat when you’re watching the football this month. “Don’t be afraid of baking. this is a short and simple recipe My prediction? All I’m with only a few ingredients – it’s very basic. Everybody has prepared to say is this: it these ingredients sitting in their cupboards” won’t be England.
What better way to escape the summer heat than by enjoying a spot of afternoon tea indoors? With this in mind, our celebrity chef columnist Gary Rhodes bakes some mini Victoria sponges
t
INGREDIENTS 90g room temperature butter, 90g caster sugar, grated zest of one lemon and one orange, one drop vanilla essence, two room temperature eggs, 90g selfraising flour, 0.5 tsp baking powder, a little milk (to loosen the mix), icing sugar (for sprinkling). For the Chantilly cream: 150ml whipping cream, one vanilla pod, one tbsp icing sugar. Strawberry or raspberry jam (for spreading).
METHOD
In a mixing machine, beat together the butter, sugar, zest and vanilla essence until light and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time and beat until totally combined. Fold in the flour. The mixture should be a good dropping consistency; if not, fold in a little milk until it loosens. Put into piping bags and fill threequarters of each mould. Cook at 180˚C for eight minutes, turning around after four minutes. For the Chantilly cream: split the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds, adding them to the cream along with the icing sugar. Whisk together until it forms a soft peak. Refrigerate until ready to use. Fill the cakes with a layer of jam and softly whipped Chantilly cream, and dust with a light sprinkling of icing sugar.
NEXT MONTH: BUTTERED PRAWNS WITH GREEN BEANS, WILD MUSHROOMS AND SWEET RED PEPPER DRESSING june 2012 WHAT’S ON 55
EATING OUT
ON tHE MENu
From michelin to pitching in with three new cooking classes, the world of food is not stopping for a summer holiday
Milk & Honey Gourmet
Residents of Emirates Hills welcome 24-hour gourmet grocery Milk & Honey Gourmet this month, the lucky beggars. Inspired by the success of the original M&H on The Palm, this homely store stocks freshly baked breads, organic dairy products and fresh fruit and veg, as well as imported coffee, tea, condiments and preserves. And it delivers. Milk & Honey Gourmet, Town Centre 1, Emirates Hills, Dubai, daily 24-hours. Tel: (04) 4356363. milkandhoney.ae
Hakkasan
Celebrating its second anniversary this month, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi has introduced a special weekend lunch menu. The new Dhs250 menu focuses on Cantonese yum cha classics, including steamed, baked and fried dim sum, as well as a sanpei chicken clay pot and Chilean seabass. Your lunch will also come with a wide selection of Chinese teas to help cleanse your palate. Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, Fri and Sat noon to 3pm, Dhs250 to Dhs350. Tel: (02) 6907999. hakkasan.com
Aperitivo We’ll let you in on a secret; we know how Italians stay so thin – aperitivo. Essentially, an aperitivo is a constantly refilled range of nibbles that Italian bars and restaurants put on in the evening to accompany post-work drinks. And after all that finger food you’ll be so full that you won’t want any dinner. Clever. It seems that the charming chaps at Rocco Forte’s Oro are on the same wavelength, as they have launched a two-hour aperitivo during the week, with a range of Italian wines, cocktails and a spread of gourmet bites. Oro, Rocco Forte, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Abu Dhabi, daily 5pm to 7pm, Dhs197, Dhs85 drinks only. Tel: (02) 6170000. roccofortehotels.com
TWITTER RECIPE Cooking couldn’t be simpler with our monthly recipe in 140 characters
TUNA STEAK
Marinate tuna with soy sauce/ lemon juice, refrigerate 30mins, season with salt/ pepper, sear 4mins each side. Chef Anja Van Zyl, Finz, Beach Rotana Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, daily 12.30pm to 3.30pm and 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6979011. rotana.com Follow us at @WhatsOnDubai and @WhatsOnAbuDhabi
56 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
Michelin star
Multi-Michelinstarred master chef Pierre Gagnaire is back in town this month, bringing his particular brand of creative culinary madness to the menu at his DFC restaurant Reflets. We highly recommend that you book now. The man is a genius. Jun 2 to 7, Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire, Intercontinental Dubai Festival City, DFC, Dubai. Tel: (04) 7011111. diningdfc. com
the One
trIED AND tEStED
Previous What’s On Award-winning café/furniture store The One’s menu has been crying out for a spot of redecorating, not having undergone a full revamp in more than two years. The wait has been rewarded with dashes of Middle Eastern influence in mains like saffron chicken and marinated lamb leg fillet, featuring Arabic broad beans. Should salad, soup or sandwich starters not appeal, breakfast ‘all-day acts’ are available, such as the filling corned beef hash with sweet cornbread. And lemon and almond pudding is an excellently light way to conclude the meal, unless you’ve left room for a naughty 15-minute chocolate fondant. The One is back on form. The One, Zayed The First Street, Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thur 8am to 9pm, Fri 10am to 9pm. Tel: (02) 6816500. theone.com
the Spanish competition
To butcher a phrase from British comic collective Monty Python: nobody minds some Spanish competition. And that’s just what we have in Dubai this month. Entering the bullring is Galleries Lafayette’s Tapeo, presided over by chef Josevi Jorge from Alicante, with serious competition provided by Media One Hotel and its new Spanish-themed Ole tapas evening at Café M. Let the tapas commence. Tapeo, Galleries Lafayette, Dubai Mall, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 3399933. Metro: Dubai Mall. galerieslafayette.com Ole, Café M, Media One Hotel, Dubai, Sat to Mon 6pm to 10pm, Dhs149. Tel: (04) 4271000. Metro: Dubai Internet City. mediaone.com
ruth’s Chris’s brunch
The new Ruth’s Chris Steak House at The Address Dubai Marina steps into the brunch arena this month with a new à la carte offering. There is plenty of red meat on the menu, but brunchers can also enjoy various fish options including ahi tuna, grilled Cajun gambas and pan-seared sea bass. We’ll be in there as soon as it opens on June 1. The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs285 with soft drinks, Dhs385 with house beverages, Dhs485 with champagne. Tel: (04) 4549538. Metro: JLT. ruthschris.ae
ThrEE To Try…
NEW COOKING CLASSES
Summer is the perfect time to try something new. So why not book yourself into one of the latest cooking classes to welcome wannabe chefs?
Best for… couples
The cupids at Armani/Ristorante have devised a cooking tutorial especially for couples. During a four-hour class charming chef Alessandro Salvatico will show you how to prepare a threecourse Italian meal full of fresh spring ingredients, including asparagus, giant prawns and braised sea bass with endive and pistachio. Jun 8 and 22, Armani/Ristorante, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10am to 2pm, Dhs1,000 per couple. Tel: (04) 8883444. Metro: Dubai Mall. dubai. armanihotels.com
Best for… celeb spotters
Without even knowing it, you probably have multiple Miele appliances in your kitchen. But one thing that you won’t have (yet) is a booking for its new monthly cooking classes. Every month a new celebrity chef will be flown over to show you how to cook up one of their favourite three-course meals, which you will be able to enjoy with the chef after the class. June’s star tutor is London chef Andy Campbell. Miele Gallery, Sama Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, 10am to 1pm, Dhs595. Tel: (800) 64353. miele.ae
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Best for… cake lovers
We in the UAE like nothing better than to have our cake and eat it, too. Fortunately, that is the theory behind Al Bayt’s summer bakery classes, where up to 12 people will be taught how to bake all manner of cakes. You’ll also be able to tuck into a post-baking afternoon tea. Jun 17, Al Bayt, The Palace, Downtown, Dubai, 10am to noon, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 4287888. Metro: Dubai Mall. theaddress.com
ComiNg SooN… A trIO Of pLANNED rEStAurANt OpENINGS Abu Dhabi’s popular Japanese restaurant Toki is looking to try its luck in Dubai later this year, while a new homegrown concept, the amusingly titled Sheikh & Shake, has just put the finishing touches to its menu of fast-food favourites. Finally, the popular, family-friendly UK restaurant chain Giraffe is set to open its first branch outside of its home country here in the UAE. JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 57
WHAT’S ON
ARTS
Artists, galleries, news, events and more
p60 Rhythm is A dANcER · p62 thE ARt iNsidER · p64 fivE to sEE JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 59
ARTS
Rhythm is a danceR
Ever had a fancy to get footloose? Well, now’s your chance – the annual sharmila dance summer Workshop hits town this month. company founder, instructor and choreographer extraordinaire, Sharmila Kamte gives us the lowdown
Tell us about the workshop – it sounds intense… It runs for five days, culminating in a showcase at Dubai Centrepoint Theatre at the end, which is free for anyone to come along to watch what the
students have learnt. I bring in a choreographer – this time a gentleman by the name of Tony Stone, who’s worked with a lot of the big stars, is flying in. There’s around 12 staff altogether, including myself,
teaching everything from drama and singing to all sorts of dance – classical ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, all the styles – and an age group from about seven right up to professionals who dance for a living. It’s seven-to
nine-hour days of pure dance. It’s hard work but a lot of fun. You’ve been dancing yourself for a long time. What keeps you inspired? I’m so lucky. I absolutely adore what I do. I love sharing my passion and I love seeing other people respond to it. There are so many great choreographers in the world that keep inspiring me. That’s the wonderful thing about dance – it’s always evolving; you’ve got to keep going and keep up with contemporary styles. I love that I can evolve at the same time with my students and see them perform and live their joy on stage. I love what I do. So what’s the secret to being a good dancer? I think great dancers are born. They’re born and then their work ethic has to be off the scale to reach recognition. You have to be born with basic physical ability and then have a good teacher who guides you and you’ve got to really, really work at it. You’ve got to train every day. It’s a combination of hard work, sweat, good tutoring and natural ability. So not much then! It’s funny, you get some really talented students and think, “If I had what they had physically, I’d be a star,” but you find that a lot of people who are born with it don’t know how to work because everything comes so easy to them. But then you reach a stage where you need to step it up and that’s where the ones who’ve had a little less talent but the aggression to succeed start overtaking them – it’s quite amazing to watch. But I suppose for these workshops everyone’s just
FRom SwAn LAke To The SAvAnnAh The subject of countless creative interpretations – from Natalie Portman’s crazed ballerina in Oscar-winning campfest Black Swan to renowned English choreographer Michael Bourne’s seminal 1990s all-male production – Swan Lake is arguably the most famous classical ballet of them all. And this month is your chance to witness it for yourself. The acclaimed Sofia Ballet is bringing Tchaikovsky’s famous tale of a princess who, under a wicked sorcerer’s curse, is turned into a swan to the Madinat Theatre, Dubai. There are only four days of performances scheduled (6–9 June), so if you fancy a little star-crossed lovers action accompanied by some of the 60 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
most rousing – and well known – music in the classical music canon, then grand jeté your way to the ticketing office pronto. In a somewhat different vein, but bound to be no less invigorating, the same venue is set to play host to Under African Skies later in the month (27–30 June). Billed as a celebration of Africa and boasting everything from indigenous Kewala jazz to hits by Paul Simon, this sell-out international tour finally arrives in Dubai after touring Europe, North Africa and the Caribbean. Whether you choose one or go to both, it’s guaranteed that this month you’re going to get dance inspiration. Guaranteed. madinattheatre.com
ARTS concentrating on the few days at hand... Exactly. It’s four days of intensive dancing and then one day of rehearsing for the showcase. It’s incredible in that you’ve got the ones who are obviously ahead of everyone else and then you’ve got adults who only train once or twice a week with me, and at the end they’re 100 per cent better: it’s incredible. I really admire every single person who sweats for hours on end. I truly believe that if you keep working there will be one day when someone turns around and says, “Well done.” Dance is still relatively underrepresented in Dubai. Why is that? I musn’t grumble, but I always
think there’s so much art – painting, sculpture and all that – and then you’ve got things like theatre, which is becoming more and more prominent. At the end of the day, we are living in a Muslim country, so you have to keep in mind that a lot of people have the idea that dance is not cultural. I’d love dance to be more recognised as an art form. I think it is an art, and it’s a sport as well because it’s something that you really need to practise. It is getting there slowly. There are many other dance schools doing more and more performances, so we’re getting there. Slowly! Jun 28 to Jul 2, Ductac, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, Dhs1,450. E-mail: info@sharmiladance.com sharmiladance.com
CULTURE CLUB
Things are getting extra interesting in Abu Dhabi this month as Saadiyat Island plays host to a special one-night celebration of dance, music, poetry, craft, food and (yes, you’re reading this right) map making. Artscape Of World Cultures, part of TDIC’s impressive Treasures Of The World’s Cultures exhibition, is an invitation to explore an ‘international bazaar’ of art and culture – and best of all, to get hands on while you do it. Partners as diverse as the Goethe Institute and Embassy of Indonesia will be hosting events and workshops throughout the evening – learn about the history of Italy’s Slow Food movement as you make your own organic, locally-sourced dish under the watchful eye of Pascal Sfara, head chef of Abu Dhabi’s Prego restaurant, or try your hand at pottery with master potter and ceramicist Homa Farley. There will also be poetry and short films, dance and printmaking demonstrations, alongside a chance to join in Sharjah Art Foundation’s cartography project, which aims to creatively map Abu Dhabi. All this and lots, lots more – who said there was nothing to do in this neck of the woods over the long, hot summer? 6 Jun, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
new kid on the block Parisa davarkia, director and owner of difc’s new Rira Gallery, reveals what drove her to exchange business for fine art
How did you come to set up the gallery? I’ve always loved art – I’ve collected from a young age – but my background is totally business. I grew up in Sweden and studied in Switzerland, then got my MBA in Dubai. But recently I discovered that I needed a change from working on Excel sheets from morning to night! I started working in the local art scene and really, really enjoyed it – so much so that I couldn’t see myself going back to my previous career. I approached DIFC with my business proposal and I got accepted; the day they told me it was like a dream come true. Your opening show is a showcase of Iranian art – is this typical of what Rira’s about? My business partner and I are Iranian, so it made sense to represent Iranian artists in our opening show, but the plan over time is to get the Middle Eastern artists on board: Arab artists or even Emirati – whoever we see a talent in. Over time, the plan is to showcase the best art and artists from the region, but this opening show, featuring well-known as well as up-and-coming Iranian artists is a great start. It’s about the quality of the work on show. There are a lot of galleries in Dubai – were you worried about opening in an already busy market? I love it because the market in this city is busy, but it’s very different – every gallery has its own identity. Gate Village is a perfect fit for what I want to do and what I want to represent in Dubai and in the Middle East. I need to be somewhere where there is a good traffic of people, so location’s really important. What I really love with DIFC is the sense of teamwork. The monthly Art Nights are fantastic and it’s an incredibly supportive community. Where would you like to be with the gallery a year from now? I want to get the attention of the local community here. I want to represent a good mix of artists and really establish Rida Gallery. When people want to go to Rida, I want them to know that they can only find this in Rida and not anywhere else. For me, it’s not about names and the big people and the ones that are very well-known already. The plan is to nurture new talent as well as representing established artists. The work is what’s important. riragallery.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 61
ARTS
CHARLES POCOCK
NEWS FLASH
Book launch
The ART InSIDeR
Those enfants terribles of Iranian art, brothers Rokni and Ramin Haerizadeh, have released a book about their recent n recent weeks the international exhibition with friend and art market has seen a price collaborator Hesam Rahmanian: explosion, with key works I Put it There, You Name It. by modern artists breaking Available now from Gallery records. The Scream (1895) by the IVDE. Norwegian painter Edvard Munch ivde.net broke all previous records for London Calling Usually we’re announcing the any work sold at auction when it arrival of international galleries went for $118 million at Sotheby’s. into the UAE; this time, we’re This was followed at Christie’s by happy to report, the traffic is American abstract expressionist going the other way. ArtSpace, Mark Rothko’s Orange, Red, Yellow one of Dubai’s most established (1961), which sold for a cool $86.9 galleries, has just launched a million, breaking its own previous new space in London, located 2007 sale price of $72 million. a stone’s throw from the This upsurge in pricing, well prestigious King’s Road. If your after the boom era turned to summer travels are taking you bust in 2008, is seen by many as that way, why not pop in and a testament to the end of the art pay an old friend a visit? market’s gloom years. Others claim artspace-dubai.com that high net worth collectors are just parking finances in art instead of directly investing it in the financial markets – that what we are seeing is only a respite. Some are even suggesting that the tip of an iceberg, signalling financial Armageddon, has started to emerge. You might well be asking how this relates to the region. Well, indirectly, whatever happens internationally trickles down to the region within a year. The price hike internationally has not had a real effect on the regional market because of the following factors: a lack of supply of high-end Middle Eastern work, a diminishing collector base with reduced cash flow, as seen at recent auctions and regional instability. The Financial Times reported in April 2012 that the auction market in the region was shrinking; unfortunately, this is true. Every meal here is a gourmet experience that will transport you back in time. Created by our The Middle East art market has Master Chef’s, indulge in traditional Awadhi and Hyderabadi cuisine fit for royalty. Complete your fine dining journey with live entertainment – ghazals in a relaxed ambiance with elegant décor. changed direction due to its own Open daily for lunch from 12.30 pm to 3.00 pm and dinner from 7.30 pm to 1.00 am. ‘coming of age’. A keen interest in more modern work has been clearly ENJOY 50% DISCOUNT ON FOOD AT LUNCH expressed, and the auction houses have reacted accordingly. Much of the earlier deluge of contemporary P. O. Box 120257, Al Barsha, Dubai, UAE art from the region has now been T +9714 501 9000, F +9714 501 9100 info@ramadachelseadubai.com recognised as overpriced, and we www.ramadachelseadubai.com are witnessing a price correction.
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A lot of work that was previously offered in the market has failed to find a home in any public museum and will not find itself in collections of distinction, a problem some foresaw. The upside to this situation is that modern art from the region was undervalued and collectors previously picked up incredible works at very reasonable prices. The situation is changing, with the stronger of the modern masters from the Middle East, such as Dia Azzawi and his work Sabra Shatila and Parviz Tanavoli and his Lion Series, being acquired by international collections. This greater awareness of the works and the artists has been encouraged by Mathaf in Doha, with its programme of exhibitions and publications founded on its extensive collection, which went on public display in December 2010. But the focus over the coming months will be on Europe. Visit Art Basel in mid June and, above all, the exhibition Les Corps Découvert at the Institute du Monde Arabe in Paris: a major showing of modern and contemporary art on the theme of the representation of the body and the nude in the visual arts of the Arab world, including the works of Dia Azzawi, Adel Abidin, Mahmoud Said and Mona Saudi. While in Paris you could also view the Edgar Degas show at the Musee d’Orsay, and the Henri Matisse exhibition at Centre Pompidou. Closer to home, we have Murakami-Ego in Doha and Treasures of the World’s Cultures in Abu Dhabi, both superbly put together exhibitions. 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
ARTS
Five to see... 1) Text Me
Not, as the title suggests, an electronic call to arms, but an exploration of the many unusual ways in which artists from across the MESA region are incorporating text into their work. Featuring photography, print, sculpture and more, it’s an interesting look at how calligraphy in contemporary art has been appropriated and evolved. Until Jul 21, Lawrie Shabibi, Unit 21, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3469906. lawrieshabibi.com
2) The Journey: From Italy’s Treasures To Jewels Of Arabia
This quite literally dazzling collaboration between Italian artist Ima Coforio and UAE-based Indian artist Jasmin Ahmed celebrates the pair’s physical and creative journey to and around the UAE: each of the images is hand-embellished in thousands of Swarovski crystals. Working collectively under the name of IMAjAS, 20 per cent of all sales proceeds are to be donated to Abu Dhabi’s Future Centre for Special Needs. Until Jul 3, Fairmont Bab al Bahr, Aby Dhabi, free. Tel: (02) 654 3333. art. babalbahr@fairmont.com
3) Treasures Of The World’s Cultures
An exhibition that, in its essence, aims to capture the cultural history of human existence is a bold ask for anyone, but this collaboration with the British Museum pretty much pulls it off. Featuring over 250 items from all over the world at every part of its history, this is one show that comes emblazened with the legend: ‘Must-see’. Jul 17, Manarat Al Saadiyay, Saadiyat Islance, Abu Dhabi, free. Tel: (02) 6575800. artsabudhabi.ae
4) Wet Dog
Iranian painter Farzan Sadjadi brings his apocalyptic vision to Dubai for a second solo showing at Carbon 12 gallery this month. With his trademark dark palette and deft brushwork, this is a portrait of life, not just at its most bleak, but also at its most robust. Until Sept 10, Carbon 12 Gallery, Warehouse D37, Street 8, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3406016. carbon12dubai.com
5) Fun w/Fen
The Great Wave, by Hokusai, is one of the most famous prints in Japanese art history. What to think, then, of Mohamed Kanoo’s version in this exhibition – flipped to become a mirror image and, judging by the depiction of the Burj al Arab in its shadow, relocated to the Gulf? Decide for yourself at the artist’s second solo show at Meem Gallery. Until Jul 5, Meem Gallery, Umm Suqeim Road (past Lulu Hypermarket), Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3477883. meemartgallery.com
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carreraworld.com
WHAT’S ON
SHOPPING Designers, shops, trends, hot spots and more
p68 Dressing for your boDy shape · p72 shop talk june 2012 WHAT’S ON 67
SHOPPING
DRESSING FOR YOUR BODY SHAPE
Forget apples and pears, when it comes to finding flattering clothing it’s more about the lines of your body, scale and proportion. Personal shopper, image consultant and stylist Farah Kabir offers some hints and tips to change the way you shop forever…
Identify your shape
Your bodyline is the frame of your body. To establish which of the three main types you are, look at the shape of your shoulders, waist, hips, buttocks and back
CHOOSING FABRICS
When it comes to picking out materials the key is to follow your natural shape 1
AngulAr Choose fabrics that have structure and weight – you’re looking for clothes that pretty much stand up on their own and create straight lines. 2
ANGULAR
CURVILINEAR INTERJACENT
CurvilineAr Opt for light-weight, fluid fabrics like cotton jersey and fine knits to offer movement. 3
interjACent Avoid extremes and buy mediumweight fabrics that have an element of movement, but aren’t floaty. If your body shows more evidence of straight lines and lack of curves then you are angular. Celebs who demonstrate this body type are the narrow-hipped Cameron Diaz and the everslender Nicole Kidman.
This body type is all about softness, round lines and, you guessed it, curves. Think Jessica Rabbit, Christina Hendricks and Kate Winslet before she came over all Hollywood and stopped eating pie and mash.
If you have both straight and curvy lines then you’re interjacent. Eva Mendes is a good example, with her slim frame and curves up top, the lucky thing.
Prints and patterns
Your bodyline also dictates the size of pattern and type of prints that flatter you most 1
AngulAr Look for geometric prints with little volume of fabric. 68 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
2
CurvilineAr Round prints like florals will do you the most favours.
3
interjACent Abstract patterns in soft lines are the best for you.
ACCESSORIES Scale is key here, and proportions can work with or against you
SMAll: If you’re under 160cm tall with a shoe size of around 36 (and could share clothes with Sarah Jessica Parker) then choose petite prints, smaller bags and more delicate jewellery or you’re in danger of being drowned in details – and looking even smaller. MeDiuM: Medium frames (around 165cm tall with size 38 shoes) should look for average size prints – no ditzy florals or oversized patterns – and stay away from overly chunky accessories. lArge: Those who are over 170cm tall with bigger feet can carry bold prints, balance their proportions with super-sized tote bags and opt for dramatic jewellery.
SHOPPING
What to buy
Now you know the rules and are ready to be unleashed onto the malls. So what should you be picking up?
AngulAr Bag, Cole Haan, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs2,025. Tel: (04) 339 8032. Metro: Dubai Mall. colehaan.com Dress, Lipsy, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs309. Tel: (04) 3253552. lipsy.co.uk Belt, Splash, Ibn Battuta Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs20. Tel: (04) 4297930. splashfashions.com
CurvilineAr Dress, ValleyDez, Sunset Mall, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs1,100. Tel: (04) 3242883. valleydez.com Bag, Gap, Al Wadha Mall, Abu Dhabi, Dhs695. Tel: (02) 4437270. gap.com Bracelet, Shoe Mart, The Dubai Mall, Dhs45. Tel: (04) 3308878. shoemartgulf.com
interjACent Dress, Ted Baker, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, Dhs865. Tel: (02) 6814711. tedbaker.com necklace, Banana Republic, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs250. Tel: (04) 3398462. Metro: Dubai Mall. bananarepublic.com Watch, Marc by Marc Jacob, Bloomingdale’s, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs1,070. Tel: (04) 3505333. Metro: Dubai Mall. bloomingdales.com
Dresscode by Farah. Tel: (055) 8970576. farah@ dresscodebyfarah.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 69
SHOPPING Ted Baker, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, Dhs845. Tel: (02) 6814711. tedbaker.com
Guess, 1915 by Seddiqi, Deira City Centre, Dubai, Dhs495. Tel: (04) 2953225. Metro: Deira City Centre. guess.com
Stuart Weitzman, Harvey Nichols, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, Dhs1,250. Tel: (04) 4098888. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. stuartweitzman.com
Trend alert! Mellow yellow
KELLY OSBOURNE in a dress by Georges Hobeika
Designers and fashion mavens are calling yellow ‘the new neutral’, teaming it with white, denim, tan and blue (the only colour that you should avoid is black, for fear of looking like a bumblebee). The surprisingly wearable hue screams spring, so find your shade – pastels for blondes and more vibrant tones for darker skins – and start cheering up your wardrobe.
Betsey Johnson at Steve Madden, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs399. Tel: (04) 3253052. Metro: Dubai Mall. stevemadden.com
OLIVIA PALERMO in floral trousers and yellow top, both by Topshop Tatjana Anika, Nasimi Beach Boutique, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Dhs1,056. Tel: (04) 4262626. tatjana-anika.com
Splash, Ibn Battuta, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs90. Tel: (04) 4297930. splashfashions. com 70 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
Adidas Originals, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs350. Tel: (04) 4340836. Metro: Dubai Mall. adidas.com
Rebecca Taylor, Maison Sez, Marina Office Park, Villa A28, Abu Dhabi, Dhs1080. Tel: (02) 6396900. facebook. com/maisonsez
HEIDI KLUMI was spotted in this embellished canarycoloured mini-dress by Versace
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SHOPPING
SHOP TALK
The hottest news, products, trends and openings with Deputy Editor Helen Spearman NEWSFLASH
Anna Dello Russo for H&M
Marni’s collaboration with high-street favourite H&M was a huge success, and the good times are set to continue to roll with Anna Dello Russo, the legendary editor at large for Vogue Japan, now signing up to create an accessories line that will be available in October. With promises of sunglasses, jewellery, shoes and bags in the collection, we’re expecting big things. hm.com
NEW OPENING OF THE MONTH
Hermes
Hermes is the latest label to bring a dash of luxe to the capital, with a new store full of its iconic scarves, leather goods, accessories and more, all with that covetable ‘H’ and timeless equestrian style. Hermes, Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 5759556. hermes.com
WISH LIST:
adidas Predator Lethal Zones
While we might be thousands of miles from London, many British expats will be getting out the bunting, paper crowns and Union Jacks to celebrate the Queen's jubilee this month, with parties across the UAE. If you'd rather toast her majesty at home (with half a pint of tea, of course) then this giant Emma Bridgewater mug is just the thing. Harvest Home, Jumeirah Centre, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs120. Tel: (04) 3420225. harvesthomegroup.com
With the Euros kicking off this month, football fans are gathering across the UAE to support their sporting heroes. Team What’s On, however, is taking it a step further and donning the latest pair of Predator boots, from adidas (even just to watch the match in). They feature five ‘Lethal Zones’, which each have a different function for ball control, use innovative Hybridtouch material on the upper, are loaded with MiCoach technology so you can track and share your performance data and were created with Just as in colder countries where the help of soccer you can never have too many scarves, here superstars including in the UAE sunglasses are always on our Van Persie, Xavi wish list. The latest to catch our eye is the and Cahill. Oh, 1990’s-inspired Carrera 6000 (Dhs699), and they look which combine a vintage style with a dash of modern flair. The result? A cool shape, awesome. adidas, Festival great colours and a look that could take you from the beach to the slopes. City, Dubai, Must-buy Dubai Optical, Mall Of The Emirates, Dhs995. of the Barsha, Dubai, Dhs699. Tel: (04) Tel: (04) month 3414090. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. 2325690. carreraworld.com adidas.com
Carrera 6000
Three to buy for…
Father’s Day
Commes Des Garcon, Dhs1,354. mrporter.com
As Frenchie in Grease once wisely noted, the only man a girl can depend on is her daddy. And while we’re quoting cultural icons on the subject, sweater-wearing Bill Cosby reckons “Fatherhood is pretending the present you love most is soap-on-a-rope.” But don’t get your dad something as naff as that this year (Father’s Day falls on June 17 – set a reminder), he deserves more, so we have found the finest gifts around, and there’s not a Homer Simpson tie in sight…
Thomas Pink, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs105. Tel: (04) 3398598. Metro: Dubai Mall. thomaspink.com 72 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
QUEEN'S JUBILEE
YSL, Saks Fifth Avenue, BurJuman, Bur Dubai, Dubai. Dhs470. Tel: (04) 5012700. saksincorporated.com
NEWSFLASH: THE NEW SPA FOR BAGS
Yes, you read that correctly: now even your handbag can be pampered, with the opening of Lovin’ My Bag in Dubai. You’ve shelled out for a Chanel or finally bagged yourself a Balenciaga, but day-to-day wear and tear, the transfer of colour from your jeans and torn lining can age your arm candy faster than you can say ‘It bag’. The new boutique will carefully restore your pride and joy to its former glory, cleaning, repairing and protecting it, which can take between a week and two months, depending on the damage. Lovin’ My Bags, Palm Strip Mall, Jumeirah, Dubai, from Dhs100. Tel: (04) 3866081. lovinmybags.com
TREAT YOURSELF TO…
A GRAPHIC CLUTCH
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Check out these clutches by Sarah’s Bag, available from o’de rose. They’ll add a flash of on-trend neon to any outfit, give a charming nod to the Middle East and are roomy enough for all that essential gear you lug around. Sold. o’de rose, 999 Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, Dhs590. Tel: (04) 3487990. o-derose. com
Pillow talk
If you have superhero aspirations or want to teach your ankle biters some basic English, then personalised pillows from new company Smart Sheep are coming to the rescue. Choose a letter, word or number from a list, or provide their name, and you’ll be sent two customised cases, complete with illustrations – this lesson is brought to you by the letter zzzzz… Smart Sheep, Dhs320 for two. smartsheep.viewbook.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 73
WHAT’S ON
SPORT & OUTDOOR Alive and kicking
p76 HITTInG THe WAVeS · p78 BIRDIe BRAIn · p80 SPORTS neWS june 2012 WHAT’S ON 75
SPORT & OUTDOOR
Hitting
tHe waves ZapCat
T
Hurtling across the water at high speeds with nothing but a rope to hold onto sounds terrifying. We sent our man Matt to find out just how terrifying… 76 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
he UAE loves its motorsports – and we’re not talking about the impressive traffic dodging witnessed on Sheikh Zayed Road on a daily basis. From hosting Grand Prix, to having its marinas lined with fleets of luxury yachts to churning out powerboat world champions at will, it seems that if you can strap an engine onto it, then in all likelihood, someone in the UAE will be already be racing it. Enter the ZapCat – an ultra light boat with an inflatable hull and a powerful 50hp motor bolted onto the end of it. Agreed, it’s no aquatic Bugatti Veyron, but the boat is quick, corners sharper than a Formula One car and scuttles along barely a foot above the surf.
Time to grab my swimmers – and what I could muster of my courage – and off to the new Watercooled watersports I go. GETTING STARTED Let’s not beat about the bush: ZapCats are fast. How fast? Well, somewhere between having a huge crash helmet thrust into my hands and being told to buckle up, I think I hear the boat’s pilot, Chris, mention that it can clock speeds of up to 80kph. Well, at least I’ll be buckled into my seat, right? Nope. As my luck has it, ZapCats do not come with seatbelts – or seats, for that matter. Instead, as Chris covers in the safety briefing, I am to sit at the front of the boat with nothing but a rope and
a foothold to stop me from involuntarily abandoning ship as it turns corners on a halfpenny with up to 3Gs of force throwing me about. Oh. HANGING ON Taking the shotgun position at the front of the boat, I’m run through all the essentials: how to sit, what we’ll be doing and how to position my body so I don’t come flying off when hurtling round corners. We motor out about 150m from the shore towards three large buoys. Chris then checks if I’m ready before flooring the throttle as we shoot off towards the first marker. Rocketing up to the buoy, I barely have enough time to remember what I’m
“It corners sharper than a Formula One car and scuttles along barely a foot above the surf”
meant to be doing before we swerve sharply to the left – I straighten my leg and push myself back out of the boat against the G-force, grasping the rope as if my life depended on it (let’s face it, it probably does). A split second later the boat is hurtling towards another marker, this time it’s a right turn. On cue I pull on the rope, lean forward and shift my weight against the turn. It’s only been a couple of minutes, and I am already knackered. As we continue around the course, I start to get the hang of it, although I am convinced that Chris is taking it easy on me. VERDICT The ZapCat is a genuine adrenaline rush. Tearing across the water while having to reposition yourself in order to keep from coming off adds that added element of danger. The 20-minute time slot may not seem like a lot on paper, but it is more than enough considering how much it takes out of you.
1/2 AD
Watercooled, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, 9am to 5pm, Dhs170 for 20 mins. Tel: (04) 8876771. watercooleddubai.com
‘Danger’ Matt
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 77
SPORT & OUTDOOR
BIRDIE BRAIN With plentiful worldclass courses, the Emirates is full of fanatics constantly striving to improve their golf. What’s On tries out a new workshop that claims to improve your round with brainpower alone…
A
ccording to the planet’s greatest living golfer, Tiger Woods, “the person who controls their state controls their world.” Sniggering aside over the ‘states’ that irreversibly altered Tiger’s world a few years ago, the correct mind-set is vital for social swingand-hopers through to wouldbe Ryder Cup winners. So says Abu Dhabi Golf Club’s Trained Brain workshop. Run by ADGC PGA pro and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) expert 78 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
gives us a taster, explaining how many players’ rounds are jinxed from before a ball is hit, as negative worst-case scenario thinking causes bad shots. Think about what can go wrong, and it probably will do, is the theory, based on research into how muscles respond to such stimulus. Martin encourages us to cutting-edge methods including cognitive psychology (how people entertain only positive, focused thoughts, using our ‘internal perceive, remember, think, speak TV’ to visualise intended shots, and solve problems), NLP and neuroscience – is classroom based. aimed at establishing routines to use every time we approach Martin, in a friendly manner,
“Martin encourages us to entertain only positive, focused thoughts, using our ‘internal TVs’ to visualise intended shots” Martin Robinson, it focuses on how to develop mental skills that improve performance on the fairways and greens. The first of three 90-minute sessions – which encompass
a shot. Breathing techniques are also touched upon, concentrating on smooth and even inhalations and exhalations. And even our body language is important, demonstrated by photos of tall-walking 14-times major champion Woods versus the slumped-shoulder slouch of veteran Scottish golfer Colin Montgomerie, who has never won a major in his long career. The full proof of Trained Brain’s success probably requires a slightly more competitive golfer than us: past pitch and putt experience hardly heralds a record-breaking round on ADGC’s championship course. But there’s more than a little mileage in all of this, judging by a short spell on the club’s
practice range, a small example of the workshop’s second session (the third rounds up and hones what is learnt during the first two sessions). While lacking in flawless technique, when composed and remembering to breathe and visualise our intended target, suddenly the ball is arching into the distance with a much more pleasing trajectory. Tiger can probably rest easy for now, but we were sufficiently encouraged that you might yet see us donning some plus fours around the UAE’s splendid array of courses. Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, by appointment, members Dhs900, non-members Dhs1,050. Tel: (056) 6725720. adgolfclub.com
Looking for other ways to improve your golfing game? Here are three to give a go… MAGNETIC BRACELETS It requires a smarter cookie than us to explain the science behind these accessories, worn around the wrist to reduce muscle aches and fatigue in sportspeople. For golfers, they particularly aid flexibility, allowing a larger shoulder turn during your swing. Yas Links, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Trion-Z bracelets Dhs165. Tel: (02) 8107710. yaslinks.com
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K-VEST Despite sounding like a flak jacket, the K-VEST is actually a ‘three-dimensional motion and movement analysis system’. At Dhs16,000, buying one isn’t really an option. Fortunately, Yas Links offer one-hour sessions in a vest (worn over the top of your clothes, unless you have unrealised Rambo ambitions). The club’s teaching pro breaks down the data to help improve your technique. Yas Links, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, by appointment, Dhs350. Tel: (02) 8107710. yaslinks.com CLUB FITTING So you’ve splashed the cash on a set of state-of-the-art clubs. But are they set up correctly for you? Find out with a 30-minute club fitting session at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which run weekly, using sophisticated FlightScope 3D radar technology to analyse your ball striking. Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, Sat 11am to 2pm (by appointment), Dhs100 per session. Tel: (02) 5588990. adgolfclub.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 79
SPORT & OUTDOOR
THE ROUND-UP
A slice of sporting life in the Emirates
Wadi Adventure opens Jebel Hafeet may not be the most obvious choice for a spot of kayaking and surfing, what with it being a really big mountain and all, but it is now the home of Al Ain’s new watersports centre, Wadi Adventure. The man-made water park offers visitors the use of three white-water rafting runs and a fully functioning surf pool that can generate up to three metre high waves, despite being over 100km away from the coast. The park also includes climbing walls, zip lines and rope courses. But be aware, the entry price doesn’t cover the activities. We can’t decide if Wadi Adventure is bold or just a bit silly. But we’re certainly going to find out. Wadi Adventure, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, Dhs100. Tel: (03) 7818422. wadiadventure.ae
American Football to touch down in the UAE Gridiron fans, grab your pads and start planning your touchdown celebrations, as the wheels are in motion to start up an American football league across the UAE. With October in mind as a starting date, the league is set to include teams from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Dubai. Although the exact dates are yet to be confirmed, the teams are expected to hold open trials for people who are interested in joining the squads. Currently there is only one American football team in the UAE, the Falcons. The hope is that after the league is set up, the Falcons will function as an all-star side comprising the best players in the league. uaefalconsfootball.com
NEWS FLASH
Polo boot camp The Dubai polo academy is offering something special for fans of the sport – the chance to fly out to Argentina for a polo holiday. Leaving in September, the trip will include seven days full board, daily training, unlimited trail riding and a firsthand insight into the workings of a South American polo farm. There is, of course, a downside – it’s priced at a lofty Dhs14,180 – but for horse lovers it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Giddy up.
Sept, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches, Dubai, Dhs14,180. Tel: (50) 8879847. dubaipoloacademy. com
Wheels roll on region's first bike track
SUMMER GOLFING PASS AT DUBAI CREEK
For some golf fanatics, not even the bubbling mercury in the thermometer will keep them away from a round of golf. Starting this month, Dubai Creek Golf Club’s Summer Pass allows golfing fanatics the chance to play on, with unlimited access to the club’s 18-hole championship course, including cart hire and a 30-minute lesson with a 80 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
PGA qualified instructor, up until September. The Dhs4,350 pass also gives discounts from the club shop – which is a good thing, as you’ll probably need to change your shirt a few times per round. Jun 7 to Sept 27, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Deira, Dubai, Dhs4,350. Tel: (04) 2956000. dubaigolf.com
The old camel race course in Nad Al Sheba is set for a rebirth, but this time it won't be camels whizzing around the track – it'll be cyclists. The country's first bike track is currently under construction, with three cycling tracks of various length, and even one for children on target to be finished by the end of the summer. Further down the line a specialised BMX course is being planned.
ferrariworldabudhabi.com
IT’S YOUR TURN TO DISCOVER ITALY
It’s the beauty of the road. It’s the magic of the Amalfi Coast. From the Alps, to the last spoonful of Gelato, at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the beauty of Ferrari is in the air. When you visit the world’s first Ferrari branded theme park, you’ll finally have the chance to live the Ferrari dream in ways you never imagined possible. The experience is yours like never before, with over 20 rides and attractions in the world’s largest indoor theme park.
D. L R O W HE T E L U R ES. O H S E H WEAR T
TM
SHOWN: F LEUR IN PEWTER
TM
Available at : BAHRAIN : Debenhams, Sun & Sand Sports, The Athletes Foot, Heels Boutique, Shoe City, Beyond the Beach
P.O. Box.17684, S3-1221 Jebel Ali Free zone Dubai UAE Tel: + 971 4 880 7995, Fax: +971 4 880 7996, E-mail: info@sourcerite.ae www.facebook.com/FitFlopMiddleEast www.twitter.com/FitFlopME ||
Marine, K Corner, Bahrain Duty Free || KUWAIT : Debenhams, Shoe Mart, The Athletes Foot, Intersport || LEBANON : ABC Ashrafieh, ABC Dbayeh || OMAN : Shoe City, K Corner, Al Khamis Shoes || QATAR : Courir, Go Sport, Debenhams, Shoe Mart, The Athletes Foot, BlueSalon, Shoe City, Ozone, Sun and Sands, Barjeel Corner || UAE : Dubai Duty Free, Go Sport, K Corner, Impressions, Intersport, Pairs, Shoe City, Jumeirah Sports House, Picnico, Shoe Mart, Sun & Sand Sports, Beyond The Beach, Shoes 4 Us, Rip Curl Stores, Wild Wadi, City shoes, The Athletes Foot, Debenhams, Gulab, City Sports, TipTop, Shoe bazzar, Mega Sports, Connections, Prince Shoes || SAUDI ARABIA : Shoe Mart, Zahid Trec, Sun & Sand Sports, Intersport, Athletes Rod, Sports Ghornatah, Matjar Al Watany, Go sports, Debenhams, Shoe Citi, The Athletes Foot, U - Mark.
WHAT’S ON
MIND & BODY The inside scoop on health and well-being in the uAe
p85 SILenT SIGnALS · p88 MInD & BODY neWS june 2012 WHAT’S ON 83
MIND & BODY
Silent Signals
Known across the world as Mr Body Language, Australian expert Allan Pease has sold millions of books on the subject, including the best-selling It’s Not What You Say... and How To Be A People Magnet. He’s a bit of a pro on relationships too, so we picked his brains before his visit to Dubai this month
So, how important is body language? People form around 90 per cent of their opinion of you in the first four minutes, so we know pretty much straight away if we’re going to give someone a fair go or not. Body language really is a language: it can give away someone’s emotional state, so you need to hear what they’re saying and piece it together with how they’re behaving to find out what’s going on in their mind. Let’s go back to basics – what makes a good handshake? The key is to have your palm out straight; if the palm is facing towards the floor it can be a signal of withholding power (think of Hitler’s salute) and palm up is submissive, so go in the middle. If you want to make someone comfortable, the most important thing is to give the same pressure. Imagine a scale of intensity from one to ten – one being very soft and ten being very strong. Mine is around a seven, but if I’m shaking hands with someone I want to make a good impression on who is a five then I back off a couple of points. If they want to impress or put me at ease, they’ll have to apply more pressure. Any tips when meeting someone for the first time? Firstly, you should smile with your teeth visible and the corners of your mouth up, which is called a play face. The second thing to do is the eyebrow flash, where you lock eyes, lift your eyebrows for a split second, wrinkle your forehead a little bit and widen your eyes, as if you’re JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 85
MIND & BODY acknowledging a friend from across a busy room. This creates a connection, and when combined with a play face people will often find you very interesting and will be drawn to you. Lastly, mirroring can create a strong rapport. When you’re with your mates and having a good time you’ll do it without realising, but you can intentionally copy someone’s body language (don’t worry, they won’t notice) and it can be very effective. If you’re feeling shy or nervous about a situation, are there ways of overcoming these feelings – or at least disguising them? Body language works as cause and effect, which means if you’re frightened or insecure you can take on specific gestures of confidence, like steepling your fingers and talking with authority with you chin up. Two things will happen: you’ll start to feel confident, and the person you’re with (maybe someone interviewing you for a job) will assume you are, so it becomes self-fulfilling and they’ll treat you like the person you’re trying to be.
“Women are around three times better than men at reading someone, so men shouldn’t lie to women face to face – you call or e-mail them” And more craftily, how can you tell when someone is lying? Be careful not to take one gesture and attach a meaning to it. It’s common for people who are lying to touch their nose – but they might just have hay fever. Nose touching is a useful signal of deception though, because research shows lying is associated with an increase of blood 86 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
pressure, and the soft tissue in the nose gets a rush of blood, which makes it tingle. Do men and women use body language differently? Women are around three times better than men at reading someone, so men shouldn’t lie to women face to face – call or email them. SMS is beautiful for this! That must make communication when dating a bit complicated… Women make more than 80 per cent of courtship signals – and there’s a huge range of them, while men are pretty basic – and more than 90 per cent of contact in public places is actually initiated by women. If you see a guy walking across a club to ask for a dance or going over to chat a girl up it gives the illusion that he’s making the first move, but a woman sends subtle signals to give him the green light. What should men look for? Most men don’t want to get knocked back in front of a girl’s friends, and we certainly don’t want to be rejected in front of our own mates. Guys are often encouraged by a woman spotting him then looking at him from across the room, looking away, then looking back. Other women will know exactly what she’s doing, but men aren’t so good at reading these signals, so if guys want to pick up in a bar they should take a female friend with them to be a radar detector. Any advice for the ladies? If you really want to get a man’s attention, you should know that subtlety doesn’t work – you need to be in his face, with eye contact and a big smile, which you’ll get some abuse from your female mates about, but it will give him courage. As an expert, can you observe a couple and tell if they’re going to be happy together? The first three to nine months in a relationship are driven largely by hormones that cloud judgment and give a couple the illusion that everything is amazing, even when everyone else can tell it’s
THE HANDSHAKE
The dominant character will unconsciously take the upper hand, forcing the other person to place their palm facing up.
The stiff arm thrust or pull: Used to keep distance, or to pull the receiver into the initiator's personal space.
The dead fish: A soft shake that communicates a lack of confidence and strength of personality. Especially bad when clammy.
The knuckle grinder: The tough guy who makes a point of enforcing his dominance.
The glove: The politician’s handshake, in which the initiator tries to give the impression that he is honest by using both hands, but it has the reverse effect.
HAND GESTURES
Steepling the fingers can show interest in a proposition, so you can expect to close a sale if the person opposite you is doing this. It is also a useful gesture if you wish to display confidence, so remember it for that interview.
not going to work. After nine to 24 months, when that period is over and hormones subside to their default levels, for some partnerships it’s the end. Some people, however, do dramatic mirroring at the beginning, and that can be a good sign. Sometimes it’s as intense as completing the other’s actions, for example if they’re dining together, when she has a drink he then wipes his mouth with a napkin, as though they’re one person. What about in the long term? For a couple to survive more than two years, there’s a different set of criteria; they need to have similar core values. There are five basic belief systems for humans covering money, family, sex, children and spirituality. Couples that score high with matching outlooks will stay
together in the long term. Sounds quite scientific… It is, and dating agencies can use this information to help you find a partner, especially the big high-class sites that take money off you. Eharmony.com was responsible for five per cent of marriages in the US last year, and they first look at your belief systems and match you to someone with similar values, so you know in advance that your date agrees with your outlook on life, then they find someone who fits your physical ideal, which explains why it’s so successful. It will cost you a couple of grand to do, but it’s cheaper than divorce. Jun 14, Allan Pease, Communicating For Results seminar, Le Méridien Dubai, Airport Road, Garhoud, Dubai, Dhs1,500. Tel: (04) 3527809. E-mail: success@rightselection.com peaseinternational.com
Mind & Body
Body and soul
The latest products, spas, news and reviews from the world of well being to keep you looking good and feeling great
A summer scent
Treatment of the month
Turkish Hammam at Rixos Royal Spa The newly opened Rixos is a lavish resort complete with a suitably fabulous spa, and the Turkish Hammam is the star of the show. In a marblelined room you’ll be washed, scrubbed and massaged to a state of smooth-skinned bliss, with the therapist using traditional techniques including creating armfuls of bubbles using rose soap and a pillowcase
(sounds bonkers but it works) while you lie on a heated slab. Afterwards, head up to the spa for a deeper massage while your muscles are pliable – just make sure you ask for Thai therapist Au, whose nimble fingers will obliterate knots at record speed. Rixos, East Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Dhs350 for 40 minutes. Tel: (04) 4575555. rixos.com
Must-buy of the month
Tis the season to ditch the heavy perfume and spritz something light and lovely. Our pick of the newest scents are Jo Malone’s limited edition Plum Blossom (Dhs255), which is inspired by the British countryside, and Marc Jacob’s Rain (Dhs270), a clean, fresh fragrance that evokes cut grass and tropical showers. Jo Malone, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3417057. Metro: Dubai Mall. jomalone.co.uk Paris Gallery, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6816662. parisgallery.com
New opening of the month
ted morgAn At motor city The hair experts at Ted Morgan have opened another venue to keep the city’s beauty fans well groomed, welcoming clients to the new salon in Motor City. Offering imaginative and creative styling – or just a trim if that’s all you need – the team are qualified in hair analysis, so it’s a wise choice if your look or regime needs a total overhaul. Unit G08, Detroit House, Business Park, Motor City, Dubai, Sat to Tues 9.30am to 6.30pm, Wed and Thur 9.30am to 9.30pm. Tel: (04) 4572309. tedmorganhair.com
WIn! yoga classes aT Balance Wellness cenTre Whether yoga is your flexible friend or you’re yet to venture onto the mat, this is your chance to try a class at Balance Wellness Centre for free and we have 15 vouchers for group sessions to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply e-mail winwithwhatson@motivate.ae with ‘YOGA’ in the subject line, your contact details, and the answer to this question… Which of the following is not a type of yoga? a) Hatha b) Bikram c) The bendy one
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NEWS FLASH!
Hydration solution?
The UAE summer is well and truly upon us so it’s time to watch your liquid intake. You should be aiming for two to three litres of water a day but a new arrival in the UAE could give your levels a boost; coconut water is packed with electrolytes that actually make it more hydrating than water. It’s also free from sweeteners and corn syrup, as well as packing as much potassium as a banana. It seems to be the latest celeb accessory too, with the likes of Rihanna and Anne Hathaway spotted glugging it. If it’s good enough for the A-list… O.N.E. Coconut Water, from Dhs10. Spinneys, Al Maya, Geant, Park & Shop and Saladicious. onedrinks.com NEWS FLASH!
The 'make yourself happy' workout
The power of exercise to boost your mood is well documented but what happens when you combine calorie burning with positive thinking? Well, a one-hour Intensati class should transform you from gloomy to glowing. Led by instructor Yvette – possibly the happiest woman in the UAE – a session involves exhilarating cardio and the shouting of affirmations including ‘I am unstoppable’. Most might feel a little self-conscious, but the sweat will wash away any negative thoughts, with the room full of grinning devotees. Intensati, Mon 7pm, Wed 6.30pm, Burj Views, Old Town, Dubai, Dhs60. Tel: (050) 8493239. breathebelievepilates.com
spa deals
Three to try
1
The Pullman Spa
Chances are you’ll be hitting the malls hard this month to take advantage of the shopping festival, so a quick half-hour in the spa will get you back on your feet again. The Pullman Spa, oh so conveniently situated at Mall of the Emirates, is offering a 30-minute treatment that includes refreshing soak and cooling leg mask, plus 2 exfoliation and massage for Dhs90. The Pullman, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, Dhs90 for 30 minutes. Tel: (04) 3772380. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. pullmanhotels.com
2
Jasmine Spa
Beat the heat this month with two Dhs300 deals from Jasmine Spa. Choose from a refreshing tropical body scrub and relaxing aromatherapy massage (75 minutes) or an hour-long body treatment or facial of your choice, followed by 30 minutes of reflexology. Grand Millennium, Tecom, Dubai, Dhs300. Tel: (04) 4299999. grandmillenniumdubai.com
1
3 ShiQi Spa & Fitness
A trio of hour-long delights await at Atlantis’ spa, all priced at Dhs495, until the end of June. Take your pick 3 from Relax & Revive (back, neck and shoulder massage with express facial), Renew & Recover (back, neck and shoulder massage, lime blossom scalp massage and foot massage) and Revitalise & Refresh (body scrub and body wrap) with each offering a taster of the extensive luxury menu. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Dhs495. Tel: (04) 4262000. atlantisthepalm.com
ULTIMATE SUMMER ESCAPES For family favourite holidays this summer Danat Hotels & Resorts invites you to kick back and experience the standout beaches, salty breezes and freshly caught seafood that Abu Dhabi has to offer. Al Raha Beach Hotel Advance purchase Dhs.399* Weekends & Weekdays Dhs.555* For further information, call 02 508 0555
Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort Weekends Dhs.499* Weekdays Dhs.799* For further information, call 02 801 2211
Danat Al Ain Resort Weekends Dhs.349* Weekdays Dhs.349* For further information, call 03 704 6000
Tilal Liwa Hotel Weekends Dhs.399* Weekdays Dhs.499* For further information, call 02 894 6111
Sands Hotel Weekends Dhs.333* Weekdays Dhs.333* For further information, call 02 615 6666
Dhafra Beach Hotel Weekends Dhs.349* Weekdays Dhs.549* For further information, call 02 801 2000
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Book now at www.danathotels.com Terms & conditions: *Rates shown are starting rates for single or double occupancy. Rates are subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee. Valid from 16th May 2012 till end of Ramadan. Rates are inclusive of buffet breakfast. Two children under 12 years sharing parents room stay free of charge. Advance purchase rates must be booked five (5) days prior to arrival with no refund. Check with your hotel for additional discounts on restaurants, laundry and recreation facilities. Weekend rates are only applicable on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Offer valid for UAE/GCC residents only. Activities and facilities are hotel specific. Payment by cash or credit card only. Rooms are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply for each hotel.
Danat Hotels & Resorts is a division of National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels (NCT&H) PO Box 6942, Abu Dhabi, UAE | T. +971 2 409 9999 | F. +971 2 409 9990 E. info@ncth.ae | www.danathotels.com
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 89
WHAT’S ON
MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE The gigs, the nights and all the latest news and reviews
p93 ARTIST OF THe MOnTH · p97 club dIARy · p100 MuSIc & nIGHTlIFe neWS june 2012 WHAT’S ON 91
C E L E B R AT E
F RI at brunch with Bubbly, Fine Food and a bit of Fun. Friday, Friday, Friday. The day we love. The day we can’t wait to arrive. But there’s only one a week so let’s celebrate it at the Friday Sumptuous brunch. AED 395. Gorgeous flavours, exquisite tastes and a bit of clowning around.
Reservations: 04 4445613 ibnbattutagate.hotel @IbnBattutaGate
Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Operated by Movenpick Hotels & Resorts
Music
Music & Nightlife
artist of thE moNth
ADRIANO K half-Greek/ half-Uruguayan musical innovator adriano K melds a truly international past into his impressive debut album, a L.a.s
E
ven by the Emirates’ cosmopolitan standards, Adriano Konialiadis – or, in his musical guise, simply Adriano K – is a product of hugely varied global heritage. Born in Switzerland, he lived in Uruguay as a teenager, moved to London to study, then packed up his vinyl collection and studio equipment to jet out to the Middle East in 2009. Fluent in four languages, the producer/ musician/DJ has become a regular on Dubai’s steadily growing underground scene, setting up his own label, Desmo. “When I was younger I was always in a band, but I didn’t start producing until I moved to London,” the laidback 31year-old explains. “When I first started, I was doing DJ sets and a lot of live music with bands, but I then started concentrating on producing. I wanted to help younger artists gain a platform for their music, and that allowed me to meet and work with some incredibly talented people, who I kept in touch with.” It follows, then, that his debut album A L.A.S extends a collaborative hand to an impressively far-flung range of
co-conspirators: from Europe, British trip-hop producer Mark Ferina, rave veterans The Orb and XFM disc jockey John Kennedy; from closer to home, the likes of El Lobito and David Soto. Alongside the music, he also commissioned 14 artists from around the world to design the album’s artwork, packaged as posters with the import-only vinyl version of the record. That isn’t the end of his art-based intentions, either: there are plans in the works for an exhibition based around the pieces. “The objective of the album is to showcase all sorts of different styles,” says Adriano. “I recorded all the original tracks with original tangos, milongas and Argentinian/Uruguayan folk tunes, and then sent parts of the tracks to 16 different producers based all over the world, people that I had either worked with, grown up with or bought their records. I asked them to mix them in whatever style they
wanted. There was no brief. I was so proud of what came back.” In keeping with such a widely cast net, and his global background, the album is an eclectic proposition. Recontextualising distinctive South American influences, channeled through his tangoloving backing band, the results occasionally bring to mind musical shapeshifters such as Brighton-via-Colombia nomad Quantic. Eschewing straightforwardness, the album’s title contains a double meaning rooted in Adriano’s love of South American music. “‘Alas’, means ‘wings’ in Spanish, but it also stands for ‘a LAS’, a dedication to a very famous Argentinian musician, Louis Alberto Spinetta [who died in February]. I met the band that played on the album when they were playing one of his songs, and I went up to them and introduced myself – the rest
is history. The album is dedicated to him.” Although his aural viewfinder disregards time zones and locales, at the same time Adriano is keeping the home fires burning as part of Dubai vinyl-spinning collective Deep Crates Cartel. “The idea is that the more we work together, the more we will be helping out the local music scene. We’re not about stealing the limelight. We are just a bunch of guys who love vinyl and want to share our love for music in styles that aren’t that accessible in many Dubai venues. We are all here for the music and to help develop the local scene, and if we can, introduce people to different music that doesn’t clog up the airwaves.” As A L.A.S takes flight, further clogging the airwaves with pop pap couldn’t be further from the agenda for Adriano K. A L.A.S is available from Virgin Megastore. desmorecords.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 93
Opened everyday (except Saturday) Open from 7:00 pm - 3:00am, Last food orders at 12:00 am
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ALEGRA in Spanish means “HAPPINESS”. Thanks to our divine offerings we guarantee that’s not the only feeling you will experience, for you will be astonished, amazed and overwhelmed.
To your arrival at Alegra, you will be transferred into a space where art meets decor and functionality. From it’s innovative concept and extraordinary design, there follows the master piece “The Restaurant”. Where our executive chef has created an exciting unique “MODERN SPANISH FUSION MENU”, which is unlike anything in Dubai. The Chef is like an artist who paints landscapes, where people can understand through tasting the full spectrum and variety of rich authentic Spanish flavors. From classic Spanish favorites like Gambas al Ajillio, to Kobe Ribeye paired with crispy Saffron rice Croquettes. To excite and keep you wanting more, Alegra
offers Truffled lamb meatballs with seared fig and foie gras froth; or the chefs unique take on a ceasar salad, where every flavor is there, presented in a fashion unlike anything you could imagine.
As our chef always says “FOOD ISN’T JUST NOURISHMENT, BUT A WAY OF LIFE AND A TOOL TO BRING PEOPLE AND FAMILY TOGETHER.” His love for traveling and gaining authenticity to his food, has taken him around the globe.Having worked with some of the top chefs Joan Roca, Jose Andres, and Michael Voltaggio has helped influence and mould his culinary philosophies. ALEGRA IS THE NEW PLACE TO DINE, DANCE AND BE SEEN !
ALEGRA is located at AL MUROOJ ROTANA HOTEL , Downtown, Dubai FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EVENTS OR RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL 00971 55 24 64 555 or 00971 56 13 11 090 visit us on www.alegralounge.com or www.facebook.com/alegralounge
Nightlife WOLF IN STREET CLOTHING Running the numbers on Lebanese-born, Dubai-raised urban music star Karl Wolf is an impressive exercise: he has topped a million sales, released four albums over the past six years and racked up ten million YouTube hits. En route, he’s worked and toured with household names from Snoop Dogg to Akon. After moving to Canada as a teenager, he returns to the Emirates this month for a huge show supporting chart-humping US rapper Pitbull…
Hello Karl, you must be pretty psyched to be playing with Pitbull? Is it your biggest show ever over here? My first breakout concert I ever did was in Dubai with Mary J Blige, so I’m kind of used to supporting major artists like that. But it’s been at least a couple of years since the last thing I did here, so it’s going to be exciting coming back. I grew up here, so I’ve got a lot of family and friends here. It’s nice to perform all over the world then come back home and show people what you’ve been up to. It’s going to be
Music & Nightlife America has, this ethnic vibe and different styles of music that I can fuse into North American music and make something fresh. And that opens other people’s eyes. Especially in America, where they think every Arab is a terrorist. Greg Stainer and Dany Neville produced your recent single, Mash It Up. Have you worked with many other UAE artists? Yeah, a hip hop artist called Robin from here, who’s connected to Dany. Dany Neville’s my boy: he’s hooked me up with Snoop Dogg, Demarco – a bit reggae artist from Jamaica – he’s like the go-to guy for all these major superstars. And working something special; more special than any other with Greg is amazing. If I’m not mistaken, he concert that I’ve ever done. might be also performing at the Pitbull show. Have you crossed paths with Pitbull before? Were you living in Dubai when you decided Yeah, in 2009 in Toronto, we did a concert you wanted to become a musician? called Summer Jam together. It was great. Not really. It’s weird. Back then, times weren’t That was before he was a Top Ten charter the same. You couldn’t just say ‘Hey mum everywhere in the world. So we’ll do a reunion, and dad, I want to be a musician’. You had to bring him back home to our place and show go to college, finish your degree. I went the him how it’s done. traditional route as well, not knowing what Do you get back to the Emirates often? my life was going to be like. Today I think a lot My parents still live here, so I try to visit at least more doors are open for aspiring artists in the twice a year. That’s the main reason I come back. Middle East because of artists like myself who You’ve just made a trip to the UAE to film a are making a living and it’s working out. music video… What would you have done if this hadn’t Yeah. I’m doing a duet with an Egyptian singer worked out? called Sandy, this Arabic/English vibe. I like to You choose your path and never look back, keep my foot in Middle Eastern music. so it’s difficult to say. I was going to go into Has Middle Eastern music been a big entertainment law. And I studied film, so some influence? We hear your dad plays the oud? form of entertainment. I love entertaining Yeah. I’ve been into Western music all my life people, ultimately. I like seeing people inspired. – Boyz II Men, Pink Floyd, everybody who Jun 29, Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade was anybody – but my parents used to play Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 8pm to Arabic music at parties. As I got older I realised 3am, Dhs350, fan pit Dhs595. Tel: (04) 3321000. I’ve got something that nobody else in North karlwolf.com
Three to try… happy hours It might be the end of the month, you might be a miserly sort, or maybe you’re saving up for your summer holidays, but the UAE’s abundant happy hours mean you don’t have to be a hermit if you’re watching the purse strings. Here’s three of the best
The Agency
It’s rare to find discounted drinks come the weekend, so toast your freedom with The Agency’s
offer of 50 per cent off its drinks list every Thursday and Friday. Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh, Dubai, Thur and Fri 6pm to 8pm.
Tel: (04) 3666730. jumeirah.com
cooper’s
There’s not so much a ladies’ night but a
ladies’ week over at Cooper’s, with offers every evening for the fairer sex. Highlights include free wine on Mondays, unlimited martinis on Tuesdays and an open bar on Fridays. Gents aren’t neglected, however, with 50 per cent off selected drinks for everyone daily from noon to midnight.
with Grosvenor House’s gorgeous Embassy offering buy one get one free every night from 7pm to 8pm, served with stunning views of the marina and beyond. Grosvenor House, embAssy Dubai Marina, Dubai, We’re loving the fact daily 7pm to 8pm. that even five-star bars Tel: (04) 3176000. aren’t adverse to bargrosvenorhousegain basement prices, dubai.com
Whoever Cooper is, he (or she) is very generous indeed. Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi, daily noon to 2.30am. Tel: (02) 6573333. rotanatimes.com
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 95
Club diary
Music & Nightlife
WEEKLY BEATS AND BASS @ CHI R&B/hip hop from DJ Badir and Flowmaster J, while DJ DLB digs out club classics. The Lodge, Oud Metha Road, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies, couples and mixed groups free. Tel: (050) 957714. chinightclubdubai.com WEEKLY FRIDAY LIME @ GOLD Urban and Caribbean hits. Monarch Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (050) 4360891. goldubai.com FULL MOON CLOSING PARTY @ NASIMI BEACH Dino Moran, Dubai Drums and more close the curtain on another season at Nasimi. Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, 3pm to 2am, Dhs100, Dhs50 before 5pm, ladies free before 5pm. Tel: (04) 4262626. infusion.ae HISHAM SAMAWI @ ILL COMMUNICATIONS American-born, Dubai-based DJ-slash-auctioneer showcases his musical wares. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs130, Dhs100 before midnight, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. jumeirah.com LIQUID BY MAI CAFÉ RAIN PARTY @ ALOFT Pool party japes with Immaculate Touch DJs (also June 29). Abu Dhabi National Exhibition
1 JUNE
METRO AREA @ CALABAR Disco-accented house duo Metro Area – aka Morgan Geist and Darshan Jesrani – broke out beyond the realms of clubland with their critically acclaimed self-titled debut album in 2002. We spoke to Darshan, who represents the pair in Dubai this month… Metro Area had a really broad impact, featuring highly in several best records of the 2000s lists. Did you expect the record to be so well received while you were making it? No, not at all. Both of us were genuinely reaching for stuff that we liked in our favourite records at the time. I don’t think we were shy about including lots of melody and dance pop references in addition to standard house music building blocks, though we did maintain a sparseness that, I think, helped it all get over as something new. When was the last time you played in Dubai? I don’t know for sure, it must’ve been 2005 or 2006. It was cool if I remember correctly. I don’t think I really knew how to DJ back then. You’re releasing a track on Dubai label one28. Can you tell us about that? It’s just a little jam I did a while back, a remix for a friend. Surely a second Metro Area album is due by now? Is there any reason you haven’t done another full-length since the selftitled record? We were working steadily on a new album but stylistic differences got the better of it. Morgan really wanted to concentrate on [new project] Storm Queen and I wanted to keep doing disco-oriented stuff. I’m not sure what’s happening with new Metro Area material, we’re on hiatus at the moment. The Address, Downtown, Dubai, 6pm to 2am, free. Tel: (04) 4368888. facebook.com/metroarea Centre, Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 3am, Dhs100 (including two beverages). Tel: (02) 6545000. aloftabudhabi.com OFF THE RECORD @ MDEK Quality house selections from a rotating crop of Dubai’s better DJs (also June 8). Media One Hotel, Media City, Dubai, 4pm to 1am, free. Tel: (050) 6879959. themusthavegroup.com PAUL VAN DYK @ PEPPERMINT Berlin superstar spinner brings his new album, Evolution, to
Dubai for Peppermint’s eighth birthday. World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs150, VIP Dhs250. Tel: (040 3326343. paulvandyk.de WEEKLY STRANDED @ ROYAL ISLAND BEACH CLUB Spend the day in ‘Lebanon’ at this idyllic weekly beach party. Royal Island Beach Club, Lebanon Island, The World, Dubai, 11am to late, boat crossings every hour from Palm Jumeirah Marina Dhs200 return, entry via guest
WEEKLY UNDERGROUND PROCEDURES @ ZINC DJ Brooklyn spins R&B and hip hop (also every Sun with rotating residents). Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3311111. ichotelsgroup.com
2 JUNE
sAtuRDAY
JUNE
8E ART ENTERTAINMENT BOX @ ALLURE Lebanese dance/percussionists Loud Arabia, plus DJs including Soul Ninja, part of a three-level Madonna weekend extravaganza at Cipriani (also June 2). Building 1, Yas Yacht Club, 10.30pm to late, Dhs150. Tel: (02) 6575400. ciprianiyasevents.com
list only (e-mail stranded@ themusthavegroup.com for booking form). Tel: (050) 6879959. royalislandbeachclub.ae
WEEKLY BACK TO MINE @ SKYLITE Chilled comedown sounds to round the weekend off with DJ Matty. Yas Viceroy, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 6pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6560000. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com IMMACULATE SUNSETS @ SEA LOUNGE Watch the sun go down soundtracked by house delights from Natalie Brogan, Chadphunk, Stew Magoo and Adam L on sax Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 10pm, free. Tel: (055) 6506337. immaculatetouchabudhabi.com WEEKLY INDUSTRY NIGHT @ ZINC Greg Stanier and David Newsum dole out R&B, dubstep, ragga and more. Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3311111. ichotelsgroup.com
3 JUNE
sunDAY
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FRIDAY
This month’s clubbing highlights
OFFICIAL MADONNA AFTER PARTIES DJs Jojo, Jazzy and CJ from Beirut’s famed Skybar keep the party pumping post-Madge (also June 4). Building 1, Yas Yacht Club, 10.30pm to late, Dhs300. Tel: (02) 6575400. ciprianiyasevents.com JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 97
Music & Nightlife
JUNE
WEEKLY 44U @ THE GRAMERCY Revamped ladies night themed around the ATFC number four. DIFC, Dubai, 7pm to 11pm, free. Tel: (04) 4377511. thegramercybar. com 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
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 9pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. ichotelsgroup.com
WEEKLY FLY TUESDAYS @ N’DULGE Mass Ramli, Shero and Rone Jaxx on rotation. Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (050) 4360891. atlantisthepalm.com
WEEKLY 80s NIGHT @ ZENITH Jump in the aural time machine with Chicago spinner DJ Blendz. Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, 9pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6773333. sheraton.com
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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DJ RABIH @ YACHT CLUB The Yacht Club resident plus live saxophonist and dancers (also June 7).
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WEEKLY CIRQUE DU SOIR @ FAIRMONT HOTEL Acrobatic party extraordinaire every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10.30pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3324900. cirquedusoirdubai.com
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BEDTIME STORIES @ SKYLITE Pre-Madonna party themed around the classic Queen Of Pop album Bedtime Stories (also June 4). Yas Viceroy, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 6pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6560000. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
ATFC @ CLUB 43 Anglo-Turkish house music veteran – aka Aydin The Funki Chile – lands in Dubai. Embassy, Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 11pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3176000. facebook.com/ atfcofficial WEEKLY BIG R&B @ RUSH R&B DJs from across the globe jet into Rush every Thursday. Yas Viceroy, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to late, free. Tel: (02) 6560000. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com WEEKLY CLUB ANTHEMS @ ZINC Greg Stainer, Andy Swift and Mr Hush select commercial house,
R&B and the eponymous club anthems. Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3311111. ichotelsgroup.com WEEKLY DEEP CRATES @ CASA LATINA DJ Lobito and Frezidante lay down the dirtiest funk, soul, classic hip hop and more (special album launch and art exhibition for Deep Crates Cartel’s Desmo on May 17). Ibis Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3996699. facebook.com/ groups/deepcrates DJ ABHIJEET & DJ SUKHI @ ZARMA Double dose of DJs at this Bollywood-style party. Holiday Inn, 31st Street, between Muroor and Airport Road, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to late, Dhs100, ladies and couples free. Tel: (055) 7262199. holidayinn.com WEEKLY FUSION SOUNDS @ ENIGMA Weekly dose of fusion sounds (also every Friday with Arabic beats). Al Raha Beach Hotel, Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi, 10.30pm to 3.30am, Dhs100 (including two beverages), ladies free. Tel: (02) 5080555. danathotels.com
NICOLA FASANO & STEVE FOREST @ CLUB 43 Italian/British partners in housebased mischief Nicola Fasano and Steve Forest have collaborated with US rap star Pitbull and run label Jolly Roger. They debut in Dubai as part of Embassy’s Summer Of Music… How did you first meet? Steve Forest: We met in a radio station where we were both working at the time and immediately felt something special. We both had similar taste in music so decided to work together on some track ideas. In 2008, after 100 productions together, we decided to start our label. What have you got planned for Dubai? SF: Energy. We’ve been working really hard in the studio these past few weeks and have some fantastic new material. Nicola Fasano: Something unique. We play back-to-back and because of this we feel we bring something very different to the party. We’re keen to make a lasting impression and hopefully return many times afterward. 98 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
How did you hook up with Pitbull? NF: Our track 75 Brazil Street picked up strong worldwide support and Pitbull decided to use it. From that came the smash record I Know You Want Me. Literally overnight things changed for us. SF: Over five million downloads, the track still continues to sell today and has been a hugely influential factor in our growth as artists. It’s been an incredible journey for us since then. Your past music videos have featured supercars, lots of beautiful women and lavish JUNE nightclubs. Dubai sounds like an ideal video shoot location for you… NF: From what we’ve seen in pictures and on the TV, Dubai would be the perfect destination for us to shoot a video. It’s actually something we’ve discussed. SF: I’m convinced once we arrive and see it for ourselves, we’ll be back with a camera crew. Embassy, Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 11pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3176000. soundofpirates.com
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Music & Nightlife
JUNE
DUB PISTOLS @ ILL COMMUNICATIONS Genre-mashing London collective led by Barry Ashworth return to Dubai. Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs130, Dhs100 before midnight, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. dubpistolsmusic.co.uk IMMACULATE TOUCH @ AL MAYA ISLAND & RESORT The Immaculate Touch regulars spin the pool party soundtrack (also June 29). Al Maya Island, Abu Dhabi, 1pm to late, Dhs100, free for ladies until 2pm. Tel: (055) 6506337. immaculatetouchabudhabi.com
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DJ VH1 @ ETOILES Lady Gaga’s pal and collaborator flies in from New York to jump on the decks in Abu Dhabi. Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, Dhs100, free before 1am. Tel: (02) 6908960. djvh1.com
DJ WESLEY @ YACHT CLUB DJ Wesley is joined by the late
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DOOMPH! @ SKYLITE Disco, jazz, soul, funk, boogie and contemporary beats, with residents Matty Wainwright and Brendon P. Yas Viceroy, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to late, free. Tel: (02) 6560000. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
DANNY HOWELLS @ MANSION The dapper British veteran graces brand new Dubai club Mansion. Melia Hotel, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (050) 1440753. dannyhowells.com
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WEEKLY JAMROCK @ SUBLIME LOUNGE Caribbean and urban hits from revolving DJ cast including Shero, Sir Taz, Dany Neville, Brooklyn and Emtee Pockets. Ibis Hotel, World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100, couples free before midnight, ladies free before 1am. Tel: (050) 4360891. ibishotel.com
FERRY CORSTEN @ DU FORUM Dutch trance master returns to Yas Island after rocking the Creamfields crowds last year. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to 4am, Dhs150, VIP Dhs350. Tel: (800) 35274. ferrycorsten.com
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dance show (also June 14). InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 9pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. ichotelsgroup.com
LOADED FIRST BIRTHDAY @ CASA LATINA Loaded rack up a year in action with a special party, postponed from last month. Casa Latina, Ibis Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (055) 8825675. facebook.com/ loadedjustgoodmusic JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 99
Music & Nightlife
news
CORBIS
News, reviews, deals and discounts to keep your social life buzzing
Pitbull comes to town
Jazz at The Ivy
There are few greater pleasures in life than the weekend lying ahead of you, with a drink in your hand, jazz in the air, and dinner on its way. Rejoice, therefore, that The Ivy is starting a season of live music this month, featuring a trio from the acclaimed Abu Dhabi Big Band, who will provide a soundtrack for the after-work crowd every Thursday night from 8pm until July 19th. As well as audible pleasures, you can also enjoy bar snacks and a la carte dishes such as shepherd’s pie and fish ‘n’ chips. Roll on the weekend. The Ivy, Emirates Towers, Dubai, Thur 8pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3198767. Metro: Emirates Towers. theivy.ae
1/4 AD
The man behind the dance smash I Know You Want Me (and guest rapper on Jennifer Lopez’s On The Floor and Usher’s DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love) hits Dubai this month, supported by Lebanese-born Karl Wolf, to the guaranteed fist pumping delight of the city’s club crowd. The Cuban-American hip hop star will be taking over the World Trade Centre and playing his big singles, including 2011’s Give Me Everything for which he was sued by Lindsay Lohan over lyrics referencing her, all in his trademark sharp threads, so dress to impress. Jun 29, Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 8pm, from Dhs350. Metro: World Trade Centre. pitbullmusic.com
Another level
Wriggly Scott, formerly known as DJ Solo, has launched his netlabel Another Music with a bang, as he aims to showcase Middle Eastern artists via collaborations with western rappers. It gets off to a tidy start with its first release, Perspective, a single from Sharjah rapper Toofless, featuring Capone of the menacing New York hip hop duo Capone-N-Noreaga. Toofless is currently a busy fellow, also working with
Wriggly in his Employees Of The Month project and MCing with hip hop crew Diligent Thought. anothermusic.bandcamp.com
Moscow Mondays If you’d like to try some Russian drinks, dishes and entertainment without spending too many roubles then the new night at City Max Bur Dubai could be for you. There’s traditional cuisine and dancing on offer for Dhs79 every Monday, including a welcome drink, two-course menu and more dance floor action than you can throw a furry boot at. The Huddle, City Max Hotel, Bur Dubai, Mon 9pm, Dhs79. Tel: (04) 4078000. citymaxhotels.com
WIN! Drinks at Hopfest Irish Village’s famed Hopfest celebrations take place next month, with the UAE’s party lovers congregating in a tent for imbibing and dancing into the night. Want to take three friends along for free and treat them to some buckets of beer? To be in with a chance of winning, simply e-mail winwithwhatson@motivate. ae with ‘HOPFEST’ in the subject line, include your contact details
and tell us the correct answer to this question…
Which of the following is not a measurement of liquid? a) Gallon b) Pint c) Kilometre
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Destinations, insider tips, deals and news
p104 Hong kong's Hot spots · p107 gLoBe tRotteR · p108 gouRMet tRAVeLLeR june 2012 WHAT’S ON 103
EAT & DRINK Seafood on Lamma Island
A half-hour ferry ride from Central Pier 4 is Lamma Island, 3km off the southwest coast. One of the lesser known outlying islands, it is home to 8,000 residents and is devoted to fishing, with floating fish farms offshore. Mountainous and green, with walking trails weaving through the trees, Lamma is an ideal spot to stretch your legs before returning to the dock for lunch. Restaurants line the small seafront, with fishermen unloading their catches before displaying them for hungry visitors. For a reliable and fresh meal head to Rainbow Seafood (rainbowrest.com.hk) where you’ll find hoards of people tucking into plates of baked scallops, salt and pepper calamari and whole star garoupa fish.
Nahai No. 1
One of Hong Kong’s most famed attractions is its skyline, especially when viewed from the Kowloon side. A nightly sound and light show, called Symphony Of Lights, takes place on the hour from 8pm, and to see it with the city’s finest, take the elevator to Nahai No. 1 on the 31st floor of iSQUARE. The restaurant was awarded a Michelin star this year, 104 WHAT’S ON june 2012
HONG KONG’S HOT SPOTS
and offers dishes from the South China Sea, all served up in the window-lined space. Be sure to book ahead to nab a table close to the view, order the wonton soup and walk off your dinner in the nearby neon-lit streets.
Soho
While Lan Kwai Fong has long been thought of as Hong Kong’s premier nightlife district, some
Bustling city streets, quiet islands, big brands, small markets, Michelin-starred restaurants and delicious dim sum, Hong kong is a place of contrasts where a short stay is packed with potential. surprisingly easy to navigate, it offers a trip with surprises around every turn, with contemporary architecture sitting alongside ancient temples may find the bright lights, brash pubs and seemingly endless happy hours a little hard to stomach. For casual meals and wine bars, join the expat crowd in Soho (South of Hollywood Road) where groups congregate
for after-work drinks, a night on the tiles or a quiet bite. Easily navigated by the escalators that ascend the midlevels, it boasts every possible cuisine from Mexican to British, with plenty of places for a post-dinner tipple.
TRAVEL
Boutiques
If you’d rather buy some unique pieces that you can’t buy at home then drop into one of Hong Kong’s many smaller stores. Try Niji Fashions (nijifashion.com) for elegant separates in a homely setting, Initial (initialfashion. com) in Lan Kwai Fong for hipster-friendly accessories and quality leather, and the famed Chinese designer Vivienne Tam where East truly meets West in stunning style. Shanghai Tang, despite the name, is a Hong Kong-based label selling silks, picture frames, clothing and accessories, should you want to pick up a sophisticated souvenir.
SHOPPING Designer stores
Hong Kong residents love their labels, and tourists from mainland China can be found queuing outside stores like Hermes and Louis Vuitton every morning. The choice here is vast, with huge malls dedicated to high-end retail therapy. To discover the city’s most prestigious department store, Lane Crawford (lanecrawford. com), take a trip to the labellined Canton Road where there’s floor upon floor of clothing, shoes, accessories, cosmetics and homewares. Of particular note is the technology department where you can pick up quirky iPad cases, eclectic music and cutting edge gadgets.
EXPLORE
aboard one of the many vessels that criss cross the channel. One of the more authentic experiences is to book a trip on the Aqua Lung, which is one of the few remaining traditional Chinese junk boats, which allows you to photograph the sights with a glass of bubbly in hand.
Heritage 1881
The former Marina Police Headquarters, this Victorian architectural gem houses a hotel, exhibition centre, shops, bars and restaurants. At the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, visitors can enjoy dinner in what used to be a stable, watch the many brides and Stanley Market grooms pose for their wedding Open seven days a week for InterContinental photos, take a free guided tour haggling, eating and strolling, and spend some dollars in Tiffany Hong Kong With every room offering views the Stanley Market is a must-visit & Co. of the harbour, a vast range of if you want to hunt out some The Peak dining options and a wonderful bargains. From strung pearls to In a city where the skyscraper is spa, the InterContinental is a the ubiquitous lucky cat, this is the place for cut-price souvenirs. king, to really appreciate the vista well-situated choice for a luxury break. With early morning tai chi Stallholders welcome, and expect, you need to head for the clouds. There are a number of vertigoclasses with local legend William a bit of interaction so don’t be inducing spots to try, with The taking place by the rooftop shy about getting the best price Peak (thepeak.com.hk) the pool and a sumptuous breakfast for your purchases. For lunch buffet, your day will start in the head to Rocksalt, a casual seafood most popular. A tram has been transporting travellers along the best possible way, but be sure to restaurant on the promenade, 1.4km track to their destination, return to the hotel for dinner so where you should order the 1,300 feet above sea level, for you can choose from menus at mussels or a mountainous plate Nobu, or Spoon by Alain Ducasse of fish ‘n’ chips. Perfect for getting more than 120 years, and today The Peak is home to restaurants, and the Michelin-starred Yan Toh your energy levels back up for shopping, an observation Heen, for exquisite dim sum. more shopping. platform and Salisbury Road, Hong Kong. Tel: even a Madam (+852) 27211211. hongkong-ic. Tussauds intercontinental.com/ museum The Peninsula where you can One of Hong Kong’s most meet over 100 famous hotels, The Peninsula waxworks of has welcomed the world’s everyone from most prestigious guests since Lady Gaga to opening in 1928. Well loved Bruce Lee. for its elaborate afternoon teas, Go by traditional accommodation with boat modern amenities and five-star With residents dining, the hotel even offers and tourists cooking classes for children, alike using boats to travel from helicopter tours and a two-storey Kowloon to Hong Kong island, spa. any trip to the city would be Salisbury Road, Hong Kong. Tel: incomplete without stepping (+852) 29202888. peninsula.com
STAY
GETTING THERE
· Cathay Pacific flies to Hong Kong daily from Dhs2,020.
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GLOBE TROTTER
Welcome to your one-page destination guide So, where are we going thiS month? Over to the photogenic Italian region of Tuscany. why, exactly? Tuscany has exactly what the UAE doesn’t – lush green rolling hills, winding country roads, thousands of years of history and some of the world’s best vineyards. Although it is easier to set up camp in Florence, for our money, the best way to see Tuscany is to rent a car (preferably a small convertible) and drive around taking in the seemingly endless number of picturesque villages perched on hilltops. oK, you’ve got me. well, driving a convertible around winding country roadS got me. tell me more… There is a lot going on in a Tuscan summer so choose wisely. For art lovers you cannot beat Florence. The Uffizi Gallery houses masterpieces from all the big names – Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio etc. while just down the road at the Galleria dell’Accademia you can see Michelangelo’s legendary statue of David. Just 45 minutes drive West lies the gorgeous walled town of Lucca – the birthplace of the composer Puccini and home to all things music. Throughout July they host concerts covering everything from opera to rock. Tuscan wines are famous the world over, even if you’re not sampling them, a trip to Montepulciano and the Chianti province are a must. where Should i be Staying? Florence is smack bang in the centre of Tuscany and has good access just about anywhere. If you’re willing to splash out then the magnificent, il Salviatino (salviatino.com), should be first on your list. Based in the hills overlooking the city, it is glamorous enough to make you feel like a member of the Ferragamo family, yet it is still wonderfully homely. For those less loose with the purse strings the Hotel David (davidhotel. com) is more central, and close to Piazza Michelangelo, which overlooks the city. In Lucca, La Magnolia (lamagnolia. com), is a charming B&B run by an equally charming man called Andrea, inside the walled city. talK to me about the food Because of its rich and fertile land, conditions are perfect for growing vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchini and artichokes; Tuscan food is all about simplicity. Pop into one of the hundreds of Osterias – restaurants that specialise in slowcooked food – where it is worth tucking into some of the bean soups such as the Ribollita or the zuppa di faro, that the region is famous for. Carnivores need not worry, as one of the region’s most celebrated dishes is the bistecca alla Fiorentina, a three-inch thick steak marinated in olive oil and garlic. where Should we go with our Spending money? It’s Italy, so take your pick from smoked meats to Gucci handbags. any other tipS? Every summer the beautiful city of Siena hosts its legendary festival, il Palio. Based around a medieval bareback horserace (which featured in James Bond’s Quantum Of Solace) is drenched in flag waving, drum beating, die-hard tradition – nothing in Siena is more important than il Palio.
NEED TO KNOW flight time: Six hours time zone: Two hours behind in the summer currency: €1 = Dhs5 Alitalia flies to Pisa daily from Dhs2,250 alitalia.com
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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. He encourages us to enjoy a culinary staycation
a
re you one of those people who plan holidays around food? Of course you are, that’s why you’re reading this. You’re the type who will book a flight to the UK just to catch the asparagus season (although it was delayed this year because of the miserable weather). Or head to Piedmont in Italy especially for the International White Truffle Fair, even though you’ll have no cash left to buy any damned truffles. At the very least, you’ll want to visit a place for its gastronomic offering – Copenhagen for its new Nordic restaurants, or Bangkok for its peerless street food. Our stomachs are so influential in deciding where we go that they may as well have their own passports. Increasingly, food is our main motivation for travel. And it takes us all over the world. But does it have to be this way? Do we really need to haul a backpack several thousand feet up the Himalayas just because we want to be the only person in the office to have tasted authentic artisanal yak’s cheese
in Bhutan? Don’t we have enough great grub on our doorsteps for a food staycation? In Taste of Dubai, Gourmet Abu Dhabi, the Liwa Date Festival and the Al Qasba Food Festival in Sharjah – not to mention the UAE’s nascent farmers’ markets – we have ready-made days out that highlight the best of local and international cuisines and produce. The UAE has so many options when it comes to restaurants that you could eat a different national dish each day for a year and feel like you’ve travelled round the world. Two Dubai restaurants even made it onto the San Pellegrino’s prestigious World’s Top 100 Restaurants list this year, as voted for by an international panel of food writers, chefs and industry professionals (myself and What’s
On’s food editor included). Both Zuma (83rd) and La Petite Maison (96th) can be found in DIFC, a maki’s roll from wherever you are now. And there’s no doubt about it, they’re both great restaurants. But whether or not you believe they are really worthy of inclusion in such a list is beside the point. The fact that they’re on such a high-profile international list can only generate more interest in the UAE’s exciting food scene. This, in turn, can lead to higher standards and better restaurants as the spotlight is directed on us. We need to be careful, though. It could lead to even more food tourists flocking to our shores, clogging up our restaurants and eating all our food. In fact, the day you see overweight tourists guzzling camel’s milk in the aisles of Spinneys is the day you should book a ticket to that yak farm in Bhutan.
HOTEL OF THE MONTH
It doesn’t stop there: the hotel’s restaurant, Cantina, serves everything from traditional Greek yogurt and souvlaki to homemade marmalade, and there are The old adage goes: as one door B&B (Dhs730) until October 7, also numerous self-catering closes, another door opens. And when it too will close its doors. options. More adventurous so it goes with Design Hotels, The 34-room hotel has teamed guests can explore the (designhotels.com) latest pop-up up with the nearby Paradise island on their own by hotel venture. Beach Club, meaning that it is not renting bikes, scooters or The group’s first venture, only situated amidst some of the ATVs, or they can enjoy in Mexico, closed last month, stunning island’s most prime real yoga sessions, snorkelling, horsemaking way for the new San estate, but also has access to the riding and various other activities. Giorgio hotel – based on the crystal-clear sea and beachside Mykonos is only a 20-minute stunning Greek island of Mykonos cabanas, as well as direct access to flight from Athens or, for more – to open its doors to guests for the island’s legendary party spots. leisurely holidaymakers, three
San Giorgio
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hours by ferry. San Giorgio Hotel, Mykonos, Greece, Dhs730 per night. Tel: (+30) 2289027474. sangiorgiomykonoshotel.com
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EXTRA
Advice, deals and other tasty travel titbits
THE STAMP COLLECTOR
TRavelS WiTh…
open skies editor and passport stamp collector Conor purcell answers your travel dilemmas
andy berryman Musical director of the new uAe national symphony orchestra, Manchester-based musician Andy Berryman talks us through his globetrotting adventures, ahead of the orchestra’s An Arabian Night gala concert in Abu Dhabi what's the best holiday you've ever had? I don’t usually get a chance to holiday per se, but I have had lots of exciting adventures. For lots of years I’ve surfed and mountain biked during the summer down in Cornwall. The North Cornwall coast is simply wild and rugged, in particular around the Hayle area and, for surfing, Godrevy. what has been your biggest travel disaster? A famous cellist once picked up my suitcase instead of his, as they looked the same, on a tour. He was travelling with his wife. You really don't want to know what was in my suitcase when he opened it. [Laughs] if you could advise people to visit one destination, what would it be? Somewhere green, with hills or mountains, no roads and silence. Switzerland, Austria, Italy; clean, safe, and with awesome scenery. what items do you never
i'd like to climb a mountain, but i am fed up of hearing about Kilimanjaro, is there anywhere else nearby that is suitable? Timothy, Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
travel without? Phone, laptop, iPod Touch and all the appropriate plugs to keep them going. Thankfully I’ve never forgotten anything vital, but I know lots of people who have turned up without passports or tickets. One got left in Mexico because he left everything, including passport and money. where has the best music? I’ve visited all of Europe pretty much, America – North and South – Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Norway, UAE. Every country has its own
CHECK IN
this month’s travel news NEPAL CALLS
While the weather heats up, take advantage of the summer offers from Kathmandu’s Dwarika’s Hotel. The property, which counts Prince Charles and Demi Moore among its previous guests, is offering three nights for Dhs2,000 and five nights for Dhs3,200 until Sept 15, including a massage, six-course dinner and daily breakfast. 110 WHAT’S ON june 2012
unique style and sound. what do you remember about your first ever trip abroad? Norway, adjudicating at the Norwegian Brass Band Championships, and Rotterdam adjudicating at the European Brass Band Championships. It was just so exciting to see things you’d never seen before. And the smell; every country has its own smell. is there anywhere left on your travel wish list? There are lots of places, but actually right now I'm quite content to be in the UK. Jun 8, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Mother Of The Nation Hall, Zayed University, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, ladies only matinee doors open 4.30pm, show starts 5pm, Dhs50, main gala concert doors 7.30pm, show starts 8pm, Dhs100, VIP Dhs200. Tel: (02) 5581958. uaenso.org
Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu, Nepal, Dhs2,000 to Dhs3,200. Tel: (+9771) 4479488. dwarikas.com
APP OF THE MONTH
google goggles (free) Being abroad and not understanding the language can present difficulties. With this little beauty you can solve that problem with a click of a button. Take a picture, be it directions, menus or historical monuments, and the text will be translated into your native language. Magic. Available for Android phones. play. google.com
Go north. The northern reaches of Ethiopia are beautiful, and manageable. The Simien Mountains are particularly spectacular and there are plenty of tour guides that will take you trekking. You will have to fly into Addis Ababa, which is worth spending a day or two in. Even easier to get to is Djibouti, a small African country that combines otherworldly beauty with some epic mountain climbing. You will need a guide – and to be in good shape – to attempt any of the climbs. There are a number of tour companies in the capital, Djiboutiville. Also be sure to take in Lac Abbas, the lowest point in Africa, and one of explorer Wilfred Thesiger’s old stomping grounds. Another option is Sri Lanka, which, although not known for its mountains, has a number of challenging rock climbing routes, particularly in the central highlands. And, after a challenging day of buttressing and belaying, you can relax in one of the area’s many excellent resorts. Try Amaya Hills (amayaresorts. com) just outside Kandy.
THE HOT LIST The best of the best
Belgian Beer Café
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New entry Non-mover Up Down
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Pranzo Veloce!
Enjoy Italian dining at great value! Try authentic Italian food with Boccaccio's quick lunch two course menu including soft drinks and coffee. Every Sunday to Thursday for AED 99. Book online, visit www.dining-intercontinental-ad.ae InterContinental Abu Dhabi. 800 423 463 / dineinter.icabudhabi@ihg.com
ThE hoT lisT
RestauRants Okku
La Petite Maison
Roberto’s
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tabLe 9 by nicK and scott Atmosphere Restaurant manager Viktorija Paplauskiene brings T9 to life. Interior There was a new painting on the wall when we visited recently (a step in the right direction), but despite the nod to the local art scene, chef's table and video screen T9 could do with a full renovation. Hilton, over to you. Food See our verdict on the new spring menu on page 53. Location Hilton Dubai Creek. It is what it is. T9 could be on the moon and we'd still book a table. Price The seven-course tasting menu is Dhs450. WhAt’s On sAys… Revisiting this month confirmed to us that T9 is producing the most exciting food in Dubai. Hilton Dubai Creek, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 2271131. Metro: Deira City Centre. table9dubai.com
RobeRto’s
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Atmosphere Despite two celeb chefs opening restaurants in Dubai this month Roberto's is still talk of the town. Interior The design is sleek and contemporary, while soft lighting, and charming proprietor Roberto Rella, create a welcoming feel. Food The small dishes from the raw bar are the highlight. Don't leave without trying the cuttlefish. Location DIFC. And after less than two months Roberto's fits right in. Price We ate far too much and paid Dhs590 for two (without alcohol). Reasonable. WhAt’s On sAys… We told you last month, book a table. Right now. DIFC, Gate Village 1, Dubai, daily noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11.30pm, bar daily noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 3860066. Metro: Financial Centre. robertos.ae
La Petite Maison
The elite of the eating out scene
3
Atmosphere Always busy. It's imperative you book ahead. Interior A long cocktail bar, open kitchen, perfect lighting and well-spaced tables. The perfect match for the menu and clientele. Food Order the lobster, the peas and the razor clams. Order anything. It's all first rate. Location DIFC, the heart of the Dubai food scene. Price Dhs1,000 for two puts LPM firmly in the expensive bracket, but it's worth it. WhAt’s On sAys… LPM was placed 96 on the prestigious San Pellegrino list of the world's best restaurants recently. One of only two Dubai restaurants to make the grade. DIFC, Gate Village 8, Dubai, Sun to Fri noon to 2.30pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4390505. Metro: Financial Centre. lpmdubai.ae
oKKu
4
Atmosphere Okku is very much a late night haunt, so book a table for around 9pm, order a strong drink and let the party begin. Interior The basement-like location, dim lighting and adjacent bar mean martini o'clock. Food The Okku kitchen quietly goes about its business, providing a constantly changing menu of skillfully prepared, always inventive and tasty Japanese dishes. Location Not three, not two, but One Sheikh Zayed Road. Price Dhs800 for two is not at all bad. WhAt’s On sAys… A homegrown brand going toe-to-toe with the global big boys. The H Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Sun to Thur noon to 3pm and 7pm to 3am, Fri and Sat 7pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 5018777. Metro: Trade Centre. okkudubai.com
ZuMa
5
Atmosphere There's even more of a buzz than usual in the air at Zuma after it recently placed 83 on the prestigious San Pellegrino list of the world's best restaurants. Interior Zuma's bar/restaurant combo is the secret to its success. Food Hot dishes, cold dishes, sushi, sashimi – it's all wonderful. Location Zuma rules the DIFC roost. Price Be preapred to spend at least Dhs1,000 for two. WhAt’s On sAys… If you haven't been to Zuma, you aren't serious about contemporary Japanese food. Book a table now. DIFC, Dubai Sat to Thur 12.30pm to 3pm, Sat to Wed 7pm to midnight, Thur and Fri 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 4255660. Metro: Financial Centre. zumarestaurant.com
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 115
Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor
6
signatuRe by sanjeeV KaPooR
Atmosphere It's too early to judge, as Signature has been open less than a week, but we'd guess handful of tables will be occupied soon. Interior Small with a tepanyakistyle bar for live Indian cooking. The 50-seater terrace will be an asset after the summer. Food See page 50 for our verdict. Location The new Melia Dubai. Our new favourite hotel in old Dubai. Price We paid around Dhs650 for two. WhAt’s On sAys… It's early days, but Signature could become one of Dubai's best Indian restaurants. Melia Dubai, Kuwait Street, Port Rashid, Bur Dubai, Dubai, daily 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3868111. Metro: Al Karama. melia-dubai.com
Hot on tHe HeeLs 11. Titanic By Marco Pierre White, Melia Dubai 12. Alfie’s, Emirates Towers 13. Ruth’s Chris Steak House, The Address Dubai Marina 14. M’s Seafood Bistro, Le Méridien Dubai 15. Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire, InterCon DFC
116 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
Rivington Grill
KitcHen 45
Traiteur
7
Atmosphere Embassy still isn't packing them in but as soon as punters hear about the food, it will be. Interior Dimly lit with dark wood walls, marble floors and art deco-style paintings on the walls. Food See page 53 for our verdict on Kitchen 45's new menu. Location Embassy. The 45th floor of Grosvenor House Dubai's Tower Two offers cracking views of the city. Price You could eat well for Dhs700 (without drinks). WhAt’s On sAys… Chef Maxime Le Van is a very talented man, indeed. Embassy Grosvenor House Dubai, Tower Two, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 7.30pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhouse-dubai. com
RiVington gRiLL
8
Atmosphere The Riv at Souk Al Bahar remains popular, despite the opening of its sister restaurant at the Madinat. Interior It's too hot for the terrace but the bright interior with its busy open kitchen is always welcoming. Food Try the lamb chops with bubble and squeak or something from the daily changing specials board. Location Despite the tourists, Souk Al Bahar is a world away from the mayhem of nearby Dubai Mall. Price If you're careful, two can dine for less than Dhs500 (without drinks) WhAt’s On sAys… Still our favourite of the two Rivs. Souk Al Bahar, Level 3, Old Town, Dubai, daily noon to 7pm. Metro: Dubai Mall. Tel: (04) 4230903. rivingtongrill.ae
12
indego by Vineet
9
tRaiteuR
10
Atmosphere Don't expect a packed restaurant, but Indego is always warm and welcoming.
Atmosphere Things have slowed down a bit now the terrace is closed for summer.
Interior The terrace is out now summer is here, but the serious eating goes on indoors anyway.
Interior The open kitchen and high, vaulted ceiling make Traiteur one of the city's most memorable restaurants.
Food Some of the most inventive Indian food in Dubai. Location Pop over the road for a post-dinner drink at Toro Toro. Price Just under the Dhs1,000 mark for two. WhAt’s On sAys… Sanjeev Kapoor's Signature is going to give Indego a run for its money, but expect Vineet to come back strong. Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun to Thur 7.30pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3176000. Metro: Dubai Marina. grosvenorhousedubai.com
Food See what we thought of new chef Simon Wipf's menu changes on page 53. Location Park Hyatt Dubai. A destination worth travelling for. Price Around Dhs750 will buy you a splendid dinner for two. WhAt’s On sAys… Traiteur is not at its best during the summer but where is? It's still one of the best French restaurants in Dubai. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3172222. dubai.park.hyatt.com
aLfie’s RestauRant and Lounge
It might have dropped out of the top ten thanks to a couple of new openings, but this British brasserie, presided over by chef Christopher Driver,
is still one of our favourite restaurants. Our pick of the menu is the potted shrimps. Add to that a cocktail bar and the fact Alfie’s has only 54 covers ensures a
cosy atmosphere, and Alfie’s is a winner. Emirates Towers, The Boulevard, Dubai, daily noon to 1am. Tel: (04) 3198088. Metro: Emirates Towers. jumeirah.com
Family fun at the Palace Change the way you spend your family summer getaway this year! GCC residents can relish a blend of luxury and fun at the Emirates Palace with the biggest shopping mall in Abu Dhabi located only 3 minutes away. Re-energise during your free time while the children are being entertained at the Palace Kid’s Club with their own cinema, video games and fun toys. For our fabulous offers please call +971 (0) 2 690 8888 or email reservations@emiratespalace.ae
You’ll never want to leave
emiratespalace.ae
ThE hoT lisT
baRs
Zuma
Mahiki
MaHiKi
1
Atmosphere Very lively indeed with queues almost every night, both outside and at the bar. Expect a young, well-dressed crowd out for fun. Location This subterannean Tiki-themed club is downstairs at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel but has its own entrance, so you don't need to stumble out into the bright lobby.
ZuMa
2
Atmosphere This stunning loungebar offers mingling at the front and relaxing at the back. It's super chic wherever you are. Location Zuma keeps DIFC’s finest well fed and watered. A number of hangouts in its ‘hood would do bad things to nab its customers.
Best For Attracting Dubai's finest, Zuma is one of the city's most sophisticated bars, Best For The infamous treasure but you'd be a fool to not chests full of cocktails, order some of the awardcheesy tunes and a good- winning food, too. time crowd guarantee sore feet and a sore head Price the next day. Good times. Drinks aren’t cheap, but the quality is sky high. Don't leave without Price Go on Tuesdays when trying the Clover Club ladies enjoy free drinks cocktail. from 9pm to midnight WhAt’s On sAys... See you there. The tunes are awesome, WhAt’s On sAys... the staff are easy on the You'll have to book ahead eye and the baked potato if you want a table; with is the best spud we've every celeb who comes to tasted for years. Go there. Dubai heading to Mahiki it's one very popular spot. Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, Fri to Wed noon to 2am, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Al Thur noon to 3am. Tel: (04) Sufouh, Dubai, daily 6pm 4255660. Metro: Financial to 3am. Tel: (04) 380773. Centre. zumarestaurant. mahiki.ae com
Loca
The finest for beverages and bites
McGettigan’s
3
Atmosphere Loca is cosy without being small, and unpretentious without being scruffy. Nice one. Location It's near Satwa, but this industrial-style Mexican restaurant-bar is well worth the trip for marina dwellers. 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 tuck into some good grub, too. Price Average, but don’t get carried away with the ‘serve yourself’ beer taps dotted around. The bill will eventually arrive, we promise. WhAt’s On sAys... A genuinely cool bar in an unexpected spot, with some quality tunes to match from resident DJ Conan Liquid and his bag of records. Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, daily noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 3461111. dxbmarine.com
4
Mcgettigan’s Atmosphere Seriously busy come Thursday night, as JLT's ever increasing population heads to McG's to toast the weekend. And the dance floor gets pretty hectic. Location Situated at the Bonnington, it has its own entrance so you don’t need to leave via the hotel. Always a bonus after a night on the Guinness. Best For A busy, friendly posh pub where prices are decent, the food is great and you don't have to get too dressed up if you don't fancy it. Price More than reasonable; we've been delighted with our bill on a couple of occasions. WhAt’s On sAys... McGettigan’s received the gong for favourite pub grub at this year’s awards. Well deserved. Bonnington Hotel, JLT, Dubai, daily 12.30pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3560470. Metro: JLT. bonningtontower.com
RutH’s cHRis Lounge
5
Atmosphere As one of the marina's newest watering holes, the lounge at Ruth's Chris Steak House is full of people indulging in pre and post dinner drinks, or enjoying a lively night at the bar. Location Situated at The Address Dubai Marina, the lounge has a separate entrance, and is far from an afterthought, with its own soundtrack and vibe. Best For This place has been packed at the weekends, clearly answering marina dwellers' pleas for a new hot spot. Go for dinner, have a drink and stay for a dance. Price Ladies get free drinks every Thursday from 9pm to 11pm. We're lovin' it. WhAt’s On sAys... An unexpectedly popular bar, with big tunes and a great party feel. The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 6pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 4549538. Metro: Dubai Marina. ruthschris.ae
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 119
tHe stabLes
Fibber Magee’s
Left Bank
Belgian Beer Café
6
Atmosphere Despite its multiple levels and large space, The Stables manages to stay cosy, with plenty of horse racing memorabilia. Location Taking over the building next to Fibber Magee's, it is tucked away behind Sheikh Zayed Road. Best For Monthly lads' nights with guest speakers, weekly ladies' nights (and free drinks on Friday afternoons) and great platefuls of comfort food. Price There are plenty of deals and the menu is very reasonably priced, too, from Dhs15 for a sarnie. WhAt’s On sAys... A bar where many a Dubaite will be spending their summer; between the Euro 12 matches and drink deals expect this place to be busy. Off Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, daily 8am to 3am. Tel: (04) 3425571. Metro: Emirates Towers. stablesdubai.net
Hot on tHe HeeLs 11. West Beach Bistro, Mövenpick 12. At.Mosphere, Burj Khalifa 13. Caramel DIFC 14. Armani/Privé, Armani Hotel 15. Oeno, The Westin
120 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
beLgian beeR café
7
Atmosphere The new BBC at the Madinat hosts a mix of holidaymakers and Dubai-based revellers who don't want to taxi it to Festival City. Location While the BBC has a lovely terrace, it's just too darn hot, so retreat inside and enjoy some of that European charm. Best For Beers, obviously, but there are late opening hours, knowledgeable staff and quality pub grub too. Price There are drink and dinner deals through the week, but it can be on the expensive side. Try the brunch to sample the menu on a budget. WhAt’s On sAys... Similar in design to the Festival City outpost, the tried and tested formula is a winner. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai, daily noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 3388563. belgianbeercafe.com
Left banK
8
Atmosphere Busy during the week and downright packed come Thursday and Friday night. Good luck getting a table... Location Souk Al Bahar's best drinking spot, ideal for post-dinner drinks at the nearby Rivington Grill or Karma Kafe. Best For Popular for groups and couples, there's mingling at the bar and gossiping in the booths. Price Cocktails will set you back around Dhs45, while bar snacks and platters are great for sharing, if pricey. WhAt’s On sAys... Totally different to its sister branch at the Madinat, Left Bank is a sultry space that entices you with drinks and keeps you there with its atmosphere. Souk Al Bahar, Old Town, Dubai, daily 6pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 3684501. emiratesleisureretail.com
15
eMbassy
9
Atmosphere Packed, and we mean, jam packed on Tuesdays, with the rest of the week somewhat quieter. Location Embassy has taken over the top three floors of Grosvenor House's second tower, with views of the marina, The Palm and beyond. Best For Go there on Tuesdays for free drinks for the fairer sex (then take over the light-up dance floor), or check out happy hour every day from 7pm. Price Drink offers aside, a night on the pop isn't cheap. It's very glam though... WhAt’s On sAys... Dinner, drinks and dancing all in one gorgeous spot. Check out what we thought about the food at its restaurant, Kitchen 45, on page 53. Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Mon to Wed 7pm to 2am, Thur and Fri 7pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3176000. grosvenorhousedubai.com
10
fibbeR Magee’s
Atmosphere Low key and friendly, Fibber's (as it's known by its many regulars) is a proper pub, complete with slighty grubby charm. Location Something of a mystery, it's near the KFC on SZR. Best For With screens showing the football, gut-busting breakfasts at the weekend and discount drinks during the week, there's plenty happening here over the summer. Price Budget, with reasonably priced (and surprisingly good) meals, too. WhAt’s On sAys... Utterly unpretentious and seriously laid-back, Fibber's is a rare Dubai bar where you can rock up wearing jeans and feel overdressed. And for that, we salute it. Saeed Tower One, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, daily 8am to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3322400. Metro: Financial Centre. fibbersdubai.com
oeno
This lofty wine bar is home to a (slightly scary) glass staircase, walls of wine and several very good themed nights. Ladies will love it there on Tuesdays,
while Wind Down Wednesdays offer unlimited vino and cheese. From budget bottles to rare vines, wine fans will love it. Westin Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina, Dubai,
Mon to Wed 6pm to 1.30am, Thur 6pm to 2am, Fri 4pm to 2am, Sat 6pm to 1.30am. Tel: (04) 5117321. westinminaseyahi. com
FR APPÉ LATTE
It’s our coffee but cooler
www.caffenero.com/uae
ThE hoT lisT
bRuncHes Traiteur
The Ivy
ZuMa
1
Atmosphere Busy and fun. Zuma is modern-day dining at its best. Food Don’t fill up on the freshly prepared sushi and sashimi, as there’s a fine selection of hot a la carte dishes, too. Location Reason alone to tempt you to DIFC on a Friday, and from there Dubai is your oyster. Best for People enjoying life in the big city. This is how you brunch in style. Price Kitsu (no alcohol) Dhs315, Kowaku (with alcohol) Dhs425 and Kyasha (with bubbly) Dhs550. WhAt’s On sAys... The new king of brunches. It’s heating up outside, but there’s still plenty of room at Zuma (if you book ahead). Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 4255660. Metro: Financial Centre. zumarestaurant.com
tHe iVy
2
Atmosphere Brunchers are seated in the ‘outdoor’ (it’s indoors) area, but are given free reign of the bar.
Hakkasan
sPectRuM on one
3
Atmosphere A great day out with the family, or a fun knees-up with friends.
Food Pick three courses, but make sure the apple pie and custard is one of them.
Food There are plenty of live cooking stations. The Indian offering is a particular favourite, as is the Eton mess (yep, it has its very own station).
Location A few months ago being in a mall worked against it, but now it makes it summer-proof.
Location Spread over an entire floor of the Fairmont, it is perfectly placed for postbrunch adventures.
Best for Having finally introduced an alcohol-inclusive brunch, it is perfect for a long lunch with a select group of friends.
Best for Forgetting that it’s 40 degrees outside.
Price With champagne Dhs550, with house beverages Dhs475, without alcohol Dhs250.
Our pick of the brunch bunch
Price Dhs595 with rosé champagne, Dhs550 with champagne, Dhs395 with house beverages, Dhs295 with soft drinks.
WhAt’s On sAys... While other restaurants wind down for the summer, The Ivy is upping the ante.
WhAt’s On sAys... With no terrace or large greenhouse-like windows, it’s the perfect place to go to beat the heat.
Emirates Towers, The Boulevard, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3198767. theivy.ae
Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, noon to 3pm. Tel: (04) 3118316. fairmont.com
tRaiteuR
4
Atmosphere Traiteur is popular, but never rowdy. With an open kitchen buffet, jazz band and plenty of bubbly, it’s filled with effortless Gallic chic. Food Classic French brassiere favourites will remind you that you’re living the good life in the UAE. Location The calming getaway feel of the Park Hyatt Dubai makes it one of our favourite hotels. Best for Dressing to impress and enjoying a bevvy of wonderfully prepared dishes. Price Dhs375 without booze, Dhs450 with wine and beer, Dhs595 with bubbly. WhAt’s On sAys... Finally knocked off its perch. The terrace is out of action due to the heat, but it is still very good. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. dubai.park. hyatt.com
HaKKasan
5
Atmosphere The dark woods and background beats lend it a trendy yet elegant feel. Food Dim sum is the name of the game here. The set menu is more than enough for the two people it is intended for. Location Tucked away on the Emirates Towers Boulevard, feel free to pop into The Ivy or Alfie’s for a post-brunch tipple. Best for An excellent sharing lunch with a small group of your favourite people. Price Choose from either the tea brunch (Dhs199) or unlimited bubbly and house beverages (Dhs500). WhAt’s On sAys... Sadly, the terrace is now closed, but this slick brunch will hold its own regardless. Emirates Towers, The Boulevard, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3848484. hakkasan.com
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 123
aL QasR
Armani/Peck
Toro Toro
Grand Grill
6
tHe gRand gRiLL
7
Atmosphere A brunch heavyweight. Al Qasr’s three enormous rooms are guaranteed to be packed, despite the price tag.
Atmosphere Dubai’s quintessential party brunch. There isn’t a mass of space, so it is well worth booking ahead for birthdays, etc.
Food Our advice is, don’t eat for a week ahead of going – yes, there is that much food.
Food Buckets of beer perfectly accompany plates piled high with ribs, steak and various sides and salads.
Location The best way to arrive at Al Qasr is by boat from the Madinat, so there are plenty of post-brunch options.
Location The Habtoor Grand is well placed for all the post-brunch options in Dubai Marina.
Best for Calling up everyone in your phone book and indulging.
Best for Joining in with the incorrigible waiting staff’s impromptu singing and dancing.
Price This brunch bigwig comes with the hefty price tag of Dhs525.
Price A fairly priced brunch at just Dhs295 with alcohol, or Dhs225 without.
WhAt’s On sAys... A lot of people want to brunch in the summer, and Al Qasr has the space to accommodate them.
WhAt’s On sAys... Loud, friendly and social, brunch at The GG just zips by.
Madinat Jumeirah, Al Qasr, Al Soufouh, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3666730. jumeirah.com
Hot on tHe HeeLs 11 Toshi, Grand Millenium, Tecom 12 Thai Kitchen, Park Hyatt Dubai 13 Bubbalicious, Westin, Mina Seyahi 14 JazzSumptuous, Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel 15 The Observatory, Marriot Harbour Hotel
124 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Lobby level, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3994221. thegrandgrill.com
beLgian beeR cafe
8
toRo toRo
9
Atmosphere A relative newcomer, it will be interesting to see how it fares without its terrace seating.
Atmosphere More grown-up lunch than rowdy brunch, with small groups of families and friends.
Food A choice of unlimited a la carte Belgian classics follow a giant bread basket, accompanied by all the beer and wine one could wish for.
Food No buffet here, instead a seemingly endless flow of dishes from Toro Toro’s menu arrive at your table.
Location Souk Madinat Jumeriah might be a tourist hot spot, but the laidback BBC brings you right back to the real world. Best for A long and filling pub lunch for not very much money at all, considering the quality of the food. Price Dhs269 with alcohol and Dhs180 sans booze. WhAt’s On sAys... A quality brunch, for less than Dhs300, and no buffet. Win, win, win. Souk Madinat, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, 1pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 4470227. belgianbeercafejumeirah. com
13
Location In Grosvenor’s newest tower, Toro Toro has cool neighbours in Buddha Bar and Embassy. Best for Sampling the outstanding menu, with hot and cold starters, chunks of skewered meat and jugs of cocktails. Price Dhs400 with beers, wines and cocktails or Dhs300 with soft drinks. WhAt’s On sAys... The summer heat will have no effect on TT. Grosvenor House Dubai Marina, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3998888. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com
10
aRMani/PecK
Atmosphere Classy and unpretentious. We love the flexible, allday, three-hour time slot. Food An antipasti salad bar, dedicated charcuterie and cheese rooms as well as an a la carte menu and a carving station. Location The world’s tallest building. You can’t miss it. Best for Taking your time. Like with everything in Italy, there is no need to rush. Price Dhs240 without alcohol, Dhs340 with house beverages and Dhs550 with premium beverages. WhAt’s On sAys... Brunch on your terms. Choose the time that suits you, and pick from the uncomplicated menu. Armani Hotel Dubai, Downtown, Dubai, noon to 11pm. Tel: (04) 8883888. Metro: Dubai Mall. dubai. armanihotels.com
bubbaLicious
This behemoth of a brunch is spread across three restuarants and an enormous dining hall. Packed with families and merrymakers alike,
there is something for everyone here. We reserve special praise for the roast stations and the five-metre long cheese board. The Westin Mena
Seyahi Beach Resort, Dubai, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs590 champagne, Dhs490 with sparkling wine. Tel: (04) 4299999. millenniumhotels.
we’ll take you to the game
closer
ThE hoT lisT
sPas
One&Only Spa
SensAsia Express
Raffles Spa
1
2
one&onLy sPa
aMaRa sPa
therapists Last time we had a South African masseuse, who was the most wellinformed therapist we've ever met. Superb.
therapists The Park Hyatt has a knack of keeping great staff, so many of the therapists here have been with the hotel for years and have their own loyal following.
Menu You can enjoy a speedy, efficient massage, have a foot makeover with a medi-pedi pro or spend hours being pampered with a day-long ritual. the spa Sumptuous treatment rooms with gorgeous terracotta, wood and turquoise, and a VIP area for couples, to complete the experience. Price You can choose wisely and have a treatment for less than Dhs300, which is a bargain for a spa of this quality. WhAt’s On sAys... Granted, it's quite a drive, but that just adds to the spa destination feel. Complete your day with lunch at Zest. One&Only The Palm, The Palm, Dubai, daily 10am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4401010. thepalm. oneandonlyresorts.com
Menu Arranged by theme, with luxurious treatments, it's best to opt for a spa day that includes access to the stunning pool. 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.
RiXos sPa
3
therapists Very friendly and utterly expert, the team really knows their stuff. Menu Covering everything you could wish for and more, with an excellent Turkish hammam (check out our review on page 88). the spa Multi-leveled, with separate male and female relaxation areas, Jacuzzis, a lovely gym and views of the lawned areas. Blissful. Price With wide-ranging treatments there are therapies from the penny-pinching to the downright decadent. Stay tuned for news of a ladies' night in the hammam, too...
WhAt’s On sAys... Check out the healthy poolside menu for tasty, healthy dishes.
WhAt’s On sAys... A lovely, bright spa in keeping with one of Palm Jumeirah's newest hotels. An afternoon here will make you feel like you've had a holiday.
Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, daily 9am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 6021234. dubai. park.hyatt.com
Rixos, East Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 9am to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4575555. rixos.com
RaffLes sPa
4
therapists This highly trained team specialise in different areas, so you're sure to be treated by an expert. Menu With an emphasis on luxury, as you'd expect from Raffles, the therapies boast ingredients like caviar, gold and diamonds. Very Dubai indeed. the spa Truly five-star, there are touches of gold throughout the spa, from the relaxation lounge to the treatment rooms. Price You get what you pay for, and Raffles Spa uses products by Kerstin Florian, Aromatherapy Associates and Eve Lom. WhAt’s On sAys... If you're in the market for a facial ask for Yande. She is as talented as she is charming. Raffles Dubai, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 3149870. Metro: Healthcare City. raffles.com
The daddies of the health and leisure scene
b/attitude
5
therapists Knowledgeable and intuitive, staff will put you at ease whether you’re a first timer or seasoned spa goer. Menu The vast treatment menu features Tibetan treatments, facials, scrubs, wraps, foot treatments, traditional and signature massages and hammam rituals. the spa Check out the five hammam pools ranging in temperature from 18˚C to 38˚C. Price The bespoke Intuitive massage is Dhs420 for 60 minutes or Dhs540 for 90 minutes. Tailored to your specific 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, Tower Two, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 9.15am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3998888. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com
JUNE 2012 WHAT’S ON 127
Talise Spa
sensasia eXPRess
The Spa
6
therapists Friendly, efficient and well trained to the high SensAsia standards. Menu With shorter (and cheaper) treatments than the other SensAsia spas, this is the place to go for a massage on the move or a fast facial. the spa The sassier younger sister of the other branches, this spa is pared down with everything you need in your small but perfectly formed treatment room. Price Very reasonable indeed: Dhs155 for a back, neck and shoulder massage, mini-facials cost Dhs60 and Dhs225 for a body wrap. WhAt’s On sAys... Don't fear, you still get the famed ginger tea (in a takeaway cup to go). Mall Of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur to Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 3549228. Metro: Mall Of The Emirates. sensasiaspas.com
Hot on tHe HeeLs 11. The Spa, The Address Dubai Mall 12. Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Al Wadi 13. Armani/Spa, Armani Hotel 14. ShuiQi Spa & Fitness, Atlantis The Palm 15. Mandara Spa, The Monarch
128 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
taLise sPa
Ahasees Spa
7
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 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... The yoga classes are outstanding. Go on Saturday evenings for a relaxing close to your weekend. Al Qasr, Al Sufouh, Dubai, daily 9am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3666681. jumeirah.com/talise
8
tHe sPa
therapists Quiet, courteous and just the ticket if you need a soothing afternoon of expert pampering.
aHasees sPa
9
therapists Really impressive; our therapist was super sweet, very proficient and clearly loved her job.
Menu Packed with Natura Bissé products, luxurious rituals and a special gents’ menu, with rituals designed to help you relax, re-energise and more.
Menu Some nice Middle Eastern-inspired treatments, plus rituals and even specials for brides and grooms.
the spa This spa is a rabbit's warren of treatment rooms and lounges.
the spa The spa is brand new and seriously stunning; make sure you have time for a soak in the Jacuzzi, which is surrounded by fresh orchids. Blissful.
Price Mid-price, but with high-quality products and well-trained therapists on hand, the bill is justified.
Price An hour-long massage or facial will set you back around Dhs450, while a three-hour ritual costs a reasonable Dhs1,200.
WhAt’s On sAys... Treat yourself to a massage then poolside drinks at Shades for the ultimate Saturday afternoon.
WhAt’s On sAys... There's a pool and great facilities, making it perfect for a spa day.
The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 4367777. Metro: Dubai Marina. theaddress.com
12
baLance weLLness
Grand Hyatt Dubai, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily 9am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3171234. Metro: Healthcare City. dubai.grand.hyatt.com
10
therapists Very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, they are keen to share their expertise and recommend treatments. Menu Seriously impressive, with everything from yoga classes and Ayurvedic techniques to high-tech hydrotherapy sessions. the spa Balance Wellness is a vast space with endless rooms, relaxation areas and studios. Price Because the spa isn't in a five-star hotel, costs are much more reasonable than you'd expect. WhAt’s On sAys... Check out the monthly discounts on weight loss, post-natal treatments and more. Oasis Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, daily 6am to 9am. Tel: (04) 3847010. Metro: Business Bay. balance-wellnesscentre.com
banyan tRee sPa aL wadi
Ras Al Khaimah isn’t far, but Banyan Tree Spa Al Wadi is not exactly a place to pop for a quick massage. Fortunately the spa is huge, and it offers a full day package,
incorporating a morning and afternoon session, including massage, lunch, rainforest experience, facial and foot massage for Dhs1,800. Better
yet, book a weekend away and enjoy the whole resort. Banyan Tree Al Wadi, RAK, daily 10am to 10pm. Tel: (07) 2067777. banyantree.com
Catboy hosts the Catboy & Geordiebird Breakfast Show, Sun to Thur 6am to 10am, Dubai 92. dubai92.com
BACKCHAT
WITH CATBOY
When it comes to comments, it’s a strict no comment from our man on the radio
C
omments. Website comments, blog comments, online newspaper comments, Facebook comments and Twitter comments. They’ve started to get to me. I was trying to figure out what the point of a comments section was. No one learns anything from comments. There isn’t someone in the offices of newspapers around the world whose job it is to skew their output to suit commenters. Comments don’t lead anywhere. Actually, the only caveat
there is when using comments to moan about hotels or restaurants, in the hope of gaining some financial reward. It’s the equivalent of “waiter, there’s a fly in my soup” when trying to get the meal for free. Sometimes this works, sometimes it backfires and the companies sue for slander. Other than that, comments are pointless. A comments box is just a place where anonymous, sarcastic nobodies can, with the benefit of time and hindsight, craft a stinging, vitriolic retort to what was originally written.
So, if we take newspapers as a case study, we’ve gone from buying newspapers and reading them, to reading them online, commenting on them and having those comments liked or disliked by other readers. There is a British newspaper which is, by and large, despised by most of humanity, yet its website purports to being one of the biggest in the world. Is this because it speaks the truth? Nope. Is it because the reporting is unbiased and reflective of society’s beliefs? Again, no. It’s because it prints scandalously outrageous copy, specifically designed to leave us, the unsuspecting public, frothing at the mouth. Incensed, we hammer away at computer keyboards in our droves at how preposterous the newspaper is. This all means clicks. This all means page impressions. This all means big numbers the newspaper can show to their online advertisers. They don’t care in the slightest about what you have to say. You’re just a monkey pushing a button to get a nut. So now we all think commenting is the be all and end all of life… Wake up, check Twitter, snarkily reply to anything you don’t like the sound of, even if the authors are people you don’t know. After that, tweet your own banal rubbish. Tell the world that for
NEXT MONTH: IT’S TIME TO DITCH THE DUBAI STONE WITH OUR DETOX SPECIAL, EMIRATI DINING AND YOUR GUIDE TO RAMADAN 130 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2012
the first time ever in the earth’s history a cat did something peculiar, or a miracle happened in the form of your baby doing something slightly amusing, or – horror of horrors – you were in the car on the way to work in Dubai (a driving utopia, don’t you know?) – when another car didn’t indicate or cut you up. It’s time to start asking ourselves: SO WHAT??? When you’re ninety years old and your body has atrophied into a gnarled ball with the wrinkled appearance that suggests your soul has been vacuumed out, think about this. Statistics suggest the average Facebook user spends fifteen hours per month on the site. That’s just Facebook. Add in Twitter, reading comments, writing comments, liking comments, disliking comments and you’re looking at two days a month. Over those ninety years, you probably wasted five whole years. That’s five years you could’ve been travelling, dancing, eating or loving. Which would you rather be curled up looking back on? Will that time you got eight ‘likes’ for saying something a bit clever about not caring about the Olympics really count? Sadly, this article doesn’t appear online, so if you’d like to comment, hit me up at @catboy_dubai, although I might not reply immediately… I’ll be dancing.
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