Ohlala! Kuwait March Edition by Nans Group

KUWAIT

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

Soulful Explorations

Breaking Fashion Boundaries

Discovering the World Within

Tahir Sultan

Shop ‘til You Drop Bags Galore

Creative Spirit

Natasha Bedingfield

California Dreamin’ Edgy Looks For Spring

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MARCH 2013 | Issue 07

Bahrain BD2 | UAE DHS20 | QATAR QR20 | KUWAIT KD2 | KSA SR20

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OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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FOR INFO CALL +965 25309676 . 360 Mall, Level 1 . www.versacecollection.com

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NEW YORK BEVERLY HILLS MONTRE AL LONDON PARIS ARR AYA MALL 965 229 97739 360 MALL 965 253 09618 6

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MADRID TOK YO DUBAI MANAMA KUWAIT CIT Y THE AVENUES MALL 965 22 597069

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

Editor's Letter

inspir ations Kirsty Edwards-Harris

BREAKING BOUNDARIES, Tahir Sultan, meeting of East and West, FASHION meets

culture, sophisticated, your WISH list, bags galore, choices, shop ‘til your drop, SPRING CHIC, trendy styles from the catwalks to high-end boutiques, a light and airy new season, dayDREAMS of holidays in far off places, retreats, sand and sea, fast cars – HOT RED roof down, hair blowing in the ocean breeze – funky, edgy looks – CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ – the blonde bombshell… Natasha Bedingfield, soulful star, MELTING POT OF CULTURES and music, the MAGIC of lyrics to reach an audience, inspirational WOMEN TALKING, sharing, International Women’s Day – heroines past and present – beautiful inside and out, how to get the look, SECRETS, pretty, pretty, pretty, indulging in beauty TREATS, delicious eats, fine dining, out and about town, HOTSPOTS, places to see and be seen...

SOCIETY… FASHION, LIFESTYLE, Ohlala!

hot picks 1. California Dreamin’ 2. Tahir Sultan’s Creations

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3. Soulful Sounds of Natasha Bedingfield

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34 STYLE

17. THE HOT LIST 18. ICONIC SILHOUETTE 19. FASHION OF THE STARS 20. THE BAG CALENDAR 22. DESIGNER INTERVIEW

THE CAUSE

24. enhancing women’s awareness

ART & CULTURE 26. ‘Carpet Diem’

WOMEN TALKING 28. FORGING AHEAD

Celebrity scoop Creative Spirit

With a natural talent for creating soulful, dynamic hits, Natasha Bedingfield is a British pop artist with global appeal. Kirsty Edwards-Harris catches up with her during her visit to the region for a Q&A session. 10

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CELEBRITY SCOOP 30. NATASHA BEDINGFIELD’S CREATIVE SPIRIT

FASHION 34. CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ 44. TAHIR SULTAN - DISCOVERING INTEGRITY

BEAUTY

49. BEAUTY BUZZ 50. CELEB' SECRETS 51. GET THE LOOK 52. Get Pampered, Get Healthy! 54. MAKING SCENTS OF IT ALL - ESTÉE LAUDER

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contents 62

60 MOTORING

Diva Drives Mercedes Benz ML 500 Urban jungle or desert dunes – the ML 500 takes you everywhere in undeniable power and panache.

TRAVEL

58. SOULFUL JOURNEYS

MOTORING

60. DIVA DRIVES

DINING

SHOPPING

L’Occitane Launches products to please women on March 8

62. NOTHING BUT THE BEST 64. ITALIA FANTASTICO 66. DINING HOTSPOTS

SHOPPING

68. GIFTS GALORE

SOCIETY

70. KUWAIT HOTSPOTS 72. SHOT-ON-SITE 77. OBUSINESS

OHLALA! STARS

79. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MS. PISCES

THE COLUMN

80. INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 12

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Loriblu

credits Publisher & Chairman John Hughes Chief Operations Officer Rami Khalil Editor-in-Chief Kirsty Edwards-Harris Editorial Assistant Karina Lazarraga Editor-at-Large Ben Whittaker Senior Graphic Designers Paula Leal Syed Muhammed Raihan Graphic Designer Rashed Bindaina Website Designer & Developer Ammar Ali Feature Contributors Angelique Bhattacharjie Aqeel Al-Mosawi Christina Pinto Kinda Al Faris Giovanni Sari Mabire Fashion Contributors Marion Sanguesa Pace e Luce Photography Contributors Abdulaziz AlSuraya Antonio O. Alcantara I Eric O. Fabro George Mathew

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Publishing Director Edward Smith Business associate Talal Yacoub Aldoub Publishing Consultant Jameel Arif Sales & Marketing Director Leslie Garduque Sales & Marketing Managers Hala Gharzouzi Ibis Perea Administration Executive Aniyan Varghese Sales & Distribution Coordinator Sheree Lou Cabonce Accountants Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander Distribution Team Jayapragash Ganesan Rajesh Abdul Kadar

Distribution Bahrain – Al Hilal Qatar – Dar Al Sharq Kuwait – United Company www.ohlala-magazine.com Enquiries Editorial: editor@ohlala-magazine.com Advertising: marketing@ohlala-magazine.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 (Qatar) +974 4441 8415 Postal Address: Ohlala! Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Ohlala! Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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Jungle Fever

Kenzo’s spring-summer 2013 collections is inspired by the vibrant jungles of Asia, awash in colours of green and ochre, prowling with leopards and tigers. Step out in style with these glossy lizard sandals with metal detailing.

The hot list It’s time to step into spring and embrace the new season’s trends – let’s get shopping!

02 California Dreamin’

See by Chloè’s Spring 2013 collection is of a traveller across the globe in search of the inspirational and the unexpected. This season, she discovers the great Californian deserts. The Ohlala! team have been eyeing up this lamb leather gathered .top and trouser set – casual chic

Vintage Vibe This floral cotton Broderie Anglaise ‘Dylan’ bustier by Agent Provocateur will make you feel gorgeously feminine. Directly inspired by a 1960s placemat the AP design team found in a vintage market, the plunging cup boosts your bust for the perfect pin-up look – suitable even for outerwear – Ohlala!

Neon Brights One of spring-summer’s hottest trends, neon brights are a musthave for your wardrobe for the new season. We adore Juicy Couture’s hot pink Lucite Minaudiere with gold accents and chain strap.

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style Crafted in Italy, the iconic bag features two top handles with removable crossbody strap, as well as leatherlaced straps, which secure at the front with silver-tone buckles.

The SOFT RICKY Bag is the most recent addition to Ralph Laurenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection of iconic accessories. Inspired by the timeless Ricky silhouette, it is crafted from sumptuous ultra-soft leather and finished with signature custom-made hardware. The Soft Ricky Bag is available in Ralph Lauren boutiques throughout the Middle East.

The statement bag is adorned with a leather and silver-tone Ricky lock at the front, and attached key and leather pouchette. The contrasting leather interior features a snapped pouch at the back wall.

Already a hit with the celebrities, the Soft Ricky comes in array of colours including, Fuchsia pink, Clementine, Lime Green, Lemon, White, Navy and Gold.

Iconic silhouette

Stand out from the crowd this season by accessorising with Ralph Laurenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soft Ricky Bag. A statement piece in its own right, it will certainly add wow-factor to your summer look.

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FASHION OF the stars

Image courtesy of Getty Images

Take on ati s in pir the m o fr ities to celebrte your upda ason’s new seok. lo

EMMA STONE

Jessica Biel

Jessica Chastain

the American actress, wows onlookers in this unique Gucci Spring 2013 look 40 black silk cocktail dress with netted top and sheer tulle sleeves to ‘The Croods’ Premiere during the sixty-third Berlinale International Film Festival at Berlinale Palast in Berlin. She pairs the look with black Christian Louboutin pumps, Jaime Wolf earrings, and a Graziela Gems ring. A sheer pink lip-gloss would have given a more elegant feel to her look.

American actress, singer and model, Jessica Biel embraces the spring vibe while out and about in Los Angeles in this Stella McCartney print dress and nude pumps by Christian Louboutin. She jazzes up the outfit by adding a pop of colour with TOD’S D-Bag Zip in an eye-catching orange leather.

Nominee and presenter, Jessica Chastain (‘Zero Dark Thirty’ star), looks flawless in this Christian Dior Resort 2013 bustier with tulle skirt. The finishing touches include stunning Harry Winston diamond earrings, with pink accent and set in platinum, and gold sandals by Jimmy Choo. The actress was attending the 2013 Writers Guild Awards L.A. ceremony.

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Alexander McQueen

Aigner

Alexander McQueen

the bag calendar

Bulgari

A woman can never have too many bags – take your pick from some of our favourites – enough for every day of the month. Cashhimi

Chloe

Christian Louboutin

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Juicy Couture

ETRO

Edie Parker

Coach

Jimmy Choo

Kenzo

Kotur

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style 16

Lacoste

Lanvin

Michael Kors

Sofia AlAsfoor

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Milly

Salvatore Ferragamo

Stella McCartney

Nina Ricci

Ralph Lauren

Marni

Michael Kors

Paul Smith

Loriblu

See By Chloe

Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Tory Burch

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style

the sky’s the limit for Aisha Keeping all her friends kitted out in beautiful Abayas turned out to be more than just a hobby for budding designer Aisha Al Naemi, who shares her story with Ohlala!’s Josie Hill.

Aisha Al Naemi, Qatari born and bred into a big family of six children, is standing at a watershed moment in her life and her career. The 26-year-old family girl with no formal fashion design training at all, is now the talk of the town for Middle Eastern women, who are flocking to buy her collections when she exhibits them at shows around Doha. “I never intended to start a fashion business, I just liked fashion and I wanted to design Abayas, first for myself, and then for my family,” explains Aisha. That was four years ago when Aisha’s mother took the decision to employ their own family tailor in-house to make formal wear for the family. “My mother is the real fashion icon of the family. We used to go to the tailors when we were growing up. You know back then it was hard to find decent clothes in Doha, so we would go there and get dresses made, school uniforms, adding our own touches here and there, ” says Aisha. “So when my mother employed the tailor in our home and started designing abayas, I started designing 22

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them too. First it was just for myself. But my family started asking for them, then my cousins, then my friends. So I got busier and busier.” Aisha’s brother Abdullah Al Naemi, who joins us at the interview, adds, “In our house she is considered the one with the really good taste and anyone who needs something creative will say let’s call Aisha and let her do it. Now she is my mum’s stylist and the interior design consultant for the family!” Aisha’s first exhibition was at the classy Zai Boutique on Salwa Road in 2010. “I was overwhelmed by the response, and the number of orders, I didn’t have enough tailors to make them all,” says Aisha. Since then Aisha, with the help of her sister and business manager Noora, has made a further five collections, and every time has exceeded her own expectations for how many orders she would get. She pauses for thought, telling us that, “My sister came into this business by popular demand because I was overrun and I thought, everyone www.ohlala-magazine.com

really likes my abayas, so let’s just see if I can make a business out of it. Let’s test the public reaction, and so far it’s been pretty positive.” Aisha currently sells to known clients and through orders made at exhibitions, but in keeping with the latest trends, you can also find her and her designs on Facebook, twitter and tumblr and on her website aishazcollection.com. Although still currently working from home, the business now needs to find new and bigger premises and more hands to help keep up with demand. Aisha tells us, “I want to set up my own studio and workshop and I am currently negotiating with 51 East about selling my collections there. Then, ‘inshallah’, I’m hoping to expand across the GCC. I have already taken orders from other countries in the Middle East, so it’s the next logical step.” Aisha says she draws her inspiration from high www.ohlala-magazine.com

end worldwide brands such as Valentino, Lanvin and Alexandra Rich, adding, “I try to base my designs on these brands, but I also contribute my own touches within the Abaya to make it a true Aisha›Z Collection Abaya.” Asked whether she sometimes makes special one off designs to order she proudly replies, “I don’t do special designs, all my designs are special!” MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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the cause

Since 2003, the Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation has been determined to making a difference in people’s lives.

Not only has this organisation striven to help expatriate breast cancer patients get treatments; they have also helped reinforce the importance of early detection. Just last October, the Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation partnered with Wataniya and organised a fundraising gala dinner to continue with helping patients who are suffering from breast cancer. The foundation also took the opportunity to thank all their board members and sponsors, without whom they wouldn’t be enjoying the success they have; helping to treat over 245 cancer patients at a cost of more than three million Kuwaiti dinars, from which more than half were cancer patients. Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation has become a key supporter in encouraging all women in Kuwait to stay informed and get examined in hopes that an early diagnosis that can aid in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. They focus on providing free chemotherapy treatments to expatriates residing in Kuwait – which can be expensive, putting them in touch with physicians through the process their treatment, and morally supporting them throughout this difficult period time in their life. The foundation, founded by Laila A. T. Alghanim’s mother, Ruqayah Abdulwahab Alqatami (Oum Qais Abdullah Thaunayyn Alghanim), dates back to 2003, but was officially founded in 2008 and became part of the ’Ruqayah Abdulwahab Alqatami Charity Foundation’ and recognised by the Ministry of Social Affairs. In 2011 they launched their charity drive ‘Life is Precious’, a campaign in collaboration with the Ghalia Club and the Head of the Advisory Board,

Maha Khaled Al-Ghunaim. The campaign’s aim was to empower women and increase their economic, political, social and health awareness about this potentially fatal disease. Maha cites that although studies show the world percentage of the disease is higher than in Kuwait, “The mortality in Kuwait is higher than the world mortality figures due to the detection of the disease at later stages as a result of lack of awareness.” Therefore, the Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation is looking to specialise in early detection of breast cancer, as it hopes to contribute in lowering the possibility of death and increasing the chances of patients’ full recovery to more than 90 percent. Locals and expatriates can all receive help from the Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation. The only requirement is for patients to have a valid Kuwait residency and be recommended by a government hospital. The foundation supports all patients in need of their help. However, they can only provide therapy for people who have recently been diagnosed, rather than patients who have, unfortunately, passed the stage of therapy and cannot be cured with medicine. The foundation encourages everyone, women especially, to go and have regular screenings, which can be very important and effective in fighting the disease.

enhancing

women’s awareness You can follow the Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation on YouTube, where you can view interviews with physicians and other

instructional videos. Also check them out on Facebook, Twitter and their website, www.hayatt.org to get more information on breast cancer, the foundation’s events, their sponsors, their mission, testimonials. Whilst there, have a look at their Hopes Shop. In collaboration with Alfares Jewellery, you can purchase a unique line of breast cancer awareness ribbons to help them support and spread their initiatives.

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

‘carpet diem’

Aydah Merza, Kuwait’s collector of fine Oriental carpets, exclusively shares with Ohlala! the fruits of her research, efforts and lifelong passion.

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Aydah Merza is a very gregarious passionate carpet lover, based in Kuwait. For seven months out of the year, however, she travels the four corners of the globe in search of perfect pieces to make up her impressive carpet collection. Aydah’s appreciation for carpets goes deeper than the aesthetics; her discerning and trained eye can spot the rarest of pieces. “My most valuable time is spent between my carpets and the dealers,” she tells us. Her story begins in 1964 when she was just seven years old. Whilst on a trip during one of their annual family visits to Tehran, Iran to visit her grandmother, she accompanied her on a routine visit to the bank to “air out” the family

carpets that were stored in safety deposit boxes. Along the way, Aydah’s attention was turned towards the carpets at the bazaar. It seemed a most natural progression for Aydah, since her grandfather although a banker, practiced carpet weaving as a hobby. This love of carpets led her on a life journey filled with adventure. Her family was not wanting of money, as her father was a wealthy businessman, but Aydah very early on spent

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art & culture every penny she had on carpets. “I’ve learned to give up many expensive comforts, such as the quality of the hotel during my travels, just for the value of good carpets.” Aydah worked in KPC for a number of years before retiring on medical disability brought on by an accident. She then went on a pilgrimage of sorts to Tehran, her country of origin, and while taking a leisurely walk one day, she came across a picture on a carpet in a shop window across the street. It was of a girl covering her face with her hand, so she went into the shop to ask about the image only to strike up a relationship with the shop owner who gave her the carpet with the option of paying him later. That she did, with the money transferred to his account within 24hours, and from then, a working relationship ensued. Aydah learned a new way of conducting business that day, and realised that the world she would travel in is one built on trust. “This is a man’s domain, but being a woman is a great thing in this business,” she says. “I learned the value of money through carpets.” Aydah made sure that she was educated in the craft of carpet weaving first-hand and travelled repeatedly to Iran to witness the work behind the designs, the techniques, the production methods and the colour theory. Although Aydah had started buying carpets for herself in 1999, she only began with the business of being a merchandiser of carpets after her medical retirement. With a minimal budget, she first exhibited a few pieces at a stall rented from Bayt Lothan. As the frequency of her exhibits increased, so did her visibility, and she eventually started building a name for herself in Kuwait as an expert on carpets mostly from Iran. “I want everyone to see the beauty of carpets. I want them to experience the feeling that I get when I look at one,” expresses Aydah. Aydah once commissioned a carpet in the image of Oprah Winfrey and successfully sent it to her as a gift. She also had one made for Queen Rania of Jordan, as a way to garner media awareness regarding the beauty and value of Oriental carpets. Aydah was fortunate to meet the well-known Seirafian family during a routine visit to a carpet auction in Zurich, when one day she came to recognise an original Seirafian carpet on display. She requested to meet Mr Seirafian and her wish was granted; she was met with

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warmth by the entire family. They warmed to her so much that she was sent home with two books signed and dedicated to her. Her relationship with the family grew and eventually they came to trust and respect her enough to eventually ask her to become the exclusive agent in Kuwait. Aydah happily accepted, and has since then held her exhibits for their work at the Tilal Art Gallery in Kuwait. Aydah often travels to attend auctions and exhibitions in Hanover, Istanbul, Tehran, Isfahan, Russia, London and Zurich, after which she holds her own in Kuwait. She has also inadvertently become a supplier of specific pieces to people residing in the Middle East. Aydah is currently the most recognised name among local and international carpet collectors, as the go-to supplier of fine Oriental carpets.

“My love, my passion is about the carpet, in which love and beauty can be seen. My home is my gallery, my carpets speak for themselves.” MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

forging ahead Mai Faraj, the multifaceted real estate marketer, has by virtue of her own success raised the bar for women in her field and in Kuwaiti society.

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women talking Mai Faraj is one of the few women in Kuwait who can be called a self-made success story. A mother of three boys, Mai has successfully managed to singlehandedly build a new career in real estate marketing out of perseverance and hard work. Born to a Kuwaiti father and Syrian mother she initially wanted to study genetics, but the only place to do that was too far from her father, who preferred that she stay close to him. So, she instead attended the American University in Cairo where she obtained her undergraduate degree in Public Relations and Advertising. She also went on to complete a Masters degree in Mass Communication – TV Production and Journalism. Her father’s love of art and history left an indelible mark on Mai’s view of life rendering her a highly cultured individual. This is something that spills over into the raising of her boys. Mai started her career in media, when she joined the Kuwait Information Centre in Cairo, Egypt as a consultant to the International Foreign Media Department, then went on to work for the Arab Radio and Television ART channel as a producer and reporter, sports anchor and film critic. She had the exciting job of reporting at the Cairo International Film Festival and art exhibits as well as interviewing celebrities and movie stars. Mai also wrote numerous scripts and worked in film and programs production. “I love getting up every morning and getting straight to work. I love pitching story ideas to the media, seeing the story come to life.” Her shift into Real Estate came about when she relocated back to Kuwait, and joined the National Real Estate Company as their marketing manager, where at the time the newly established Kuwait Free Trade Zone was picking up speed to being a key hub for business ventures. Mai’s ability to design successful advertising campaigns and clever marketing plans led to the creation of numerous leads for the company. “I love marketing. I am always working with something different and that really keeps me on my toes.” She later joined ERA-Kuwait Real Estate Company as the acting general manger and director of Marketing and Business Development, and through the experience, learned the necessary principles of running a real estate operation, paving the way for her to become the senior vice president of Marketing and Business Development for Mayadeen, a company that holds over KD150 million in assets.

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“Watching companies obtain more business from the work I have helped them with is very exciting.” This last shift prompted Mai to go solo and establish her own company. She started real estate consulting, and signed on with a real estate provider in Spain as their sole marketing advisor for their projects in Africa and Egypt. She later worked for MENA Holding Company for two years, then decided to take a break from work to concentrate on her boys whom she is raising with great care and attention, with the aim of making them balanced and cultured men in the process. Mai’s thirst for forging ahead has driven her to regularly update her knowledge in marketing, using new technology to assist her in generating sales. For instance, jumping on the social media bandwagon ahead of others. She is also called on to speak at real estate events due to her well-founded experience of the market and its emerging trends. Her years of experience as a female real estate expert also place her in the category of the ever-growing list of accomplished Kuwaiti women. “In fact, I am the first Kuwaiti female to be in the Real Estate marketing business. I believe Real

Estate marketing is a big challenge, especially for a woman,” she quips. For Mai, the job of selling real estate isn’t rocket science, “It’s more about a clever observation of the world around you – the lifestyle patterns, the population trends, identifying values depending on supply and demand, and finally, having the right marketing strategy in place. Her keys to success are removing the ego from the equation, having faith in yourself and finally knowledge, “This is why I advise people to continuously update their knowledge of the business that they are in and keep abreast of new trends.” Mai’s advice is to always move forward and do the things that you love. She adores visiting New York City (her favourite place), as well as scuba diving during her free time. Raising her sons is Mai’s priority and always keeps her too occupied to pay attention to insignificant things. When asked what matters most to her, she replies, “Love does. It is missing today and I believe people have forgotten the real meaning of love, it is very important to love and be loved. People have become very materialistic. I see young people around who no longer understand its importance.” Mai’s love for her sons is the strongest love she feels, and it is how she has managed to stay on track even whilst taking a small break from her career.

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OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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celebrity scoop

reative With a natural talent for creating soulful, dynamic hits, Natasha Bedingfield is a British pop artist with global appeal. Kirsty Edwards-Harris catches up with her during her visit to the region for a Q&A session. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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“Life each day is about doing the best you can and enjoying it as much as possible at the same time.”

Famous for her megahit albums, ‘Pocketful of Sunshine’ and ‘Strip Me’ Natasha Bedingfield has a new creation in the pipeline, promising to bring “fresh music on another level” to the pop scene. If her previous music is anything to go by we can look forward to further evolutionary charm, which audiences can relate to their own lives, taking on personal meaning for each individual. Natasha imbibes her work with energy and meaningful lyrics, fusing her varied musical and cultural influences – the “folky vibe” of New Zealand with the “urban bustle” of London. The beautiful and gifted Natasha Bedingfield took the time to chat with Ohlala! during her visit to the region as headline act for the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters golf event in the Doha Golf Club. The global star treated fans to a full concert, as part of the entertainment provided by tournament organisers, the Qatar Golf Association (QGA), Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and Commercial Bank of Qatar.

ohlala. Was becoming an international star a childhood dream? Natasha Bedingfield. Not really, but it would have been if I had known it were possible and so much fun!

oh. What do you think of the Middle East? NB. It’s wonderful to experience such a different place from where I grew up. I want to take in as much as I can.

oh. What’s your earliest memory of singing? NB. My family is very musical, so we were always singing around the house. 32

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oh. How has your upbringing influenced your style? NB. London was a great place to grow up; it’s full of so much good music. My friends and family were into everything, from the great British artists like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, to Jamaican music and New Zealand folk artists, which all has had a hand in influencing my music.

oh. Has marriage influenced your singing/ songwriting, and in what way? NB. It doesn’t really change much, actually. oh. What inspires you? NB. Everything and everyone – people, places things, poems, literature, drum loops.

oh. What emotions do you want your music to evoke oh. Do you believe you were gifted with an amazing voice, or did it require coaching? NB. I believe anyone can learn to sing, but I also believe some have a natural gift that is beyond what you can learn.

oh. When creating a new song, which comes first, the lyrics or the tune? NB. It’s different each time, but mostly I start with an idea of what I want to write about. It is often a lyrical idea and a musical idea at the same time.

oh. Which artists do you admire and why? NB. There are quite a few I admire. I love Bob Marley. If you want to see what I’m currently digging, I create a playlist on Spotify every month.

oh. If you could share the stage with anyone, who would it be? NB. I’d love to share the stage with my friend Sia sometime. That would be fun.

oh. How has fame affected who you are? NB. Fame is an odd thing. Sometimes it’s nice to get the recognition, but other times it can be a pain.

in others?

NB. I think music should take you somewhere else. It should be an experience and something someone can relate their own lives to.

oh. Tell us more about your upcoming album… NB. It’s in the works and well on the way. I’m so excited, but I can’t say much yet. The music so far is on another level. It’s something fresh.

oh. If you had one wish in the world what would that be? NB. I’d wish for more wishes. oh. What piece of advice on life would you offer to others? NB. Life each day is about doing the best you can and enjoying it as much as possible at the same time.

oh. What are your aspirations for the future? NB. I have lots of dreams for the future. I think you should keep your dreams to yourself, though, because if you tell everyone, they might not happen. It’s like when you wish and blow out a candle; you aren’t supposed to tell anyone what you wished for. www.ohlala-magazine.com

celebrity scoop

“I think you should keep your dreams to yourself… It’s like when you wish and blow out a candle; you aren’t supposed to tell anyone what you wished for.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Photographer | George Mathew, www.greyimage.com +973 3320 8003 Fashion Director | Kirsty Edwards-Harris Model | Anna Hair Styling & Makeup | Pace e Luce www.paceeluce.com Fashion | Alice & Olivia, Catherine Malandrino, F1, Fay Bijoux, Givenchy, Jean Claude, Just Cavalli, Loriblu, Matthew Williamson, Roccobarocco. Car | Camaro ZL1 Location | The Admiralâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club, The Ritz-Carlton Doha www.ritzcarlton.com

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Embrace the spirit of spring and bring your holiday dreams alive with edgy looks from the new seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection

Anna wears a dress by Roccobarocco, shoes by Loriblu & carries a Givenchy bag. bracelet by F1, ring, necklace & earrings by Fay Bijoux. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Anna wears a dress by Just Cavalli, necklace & bag by Matthew Williamson, bracelet by Fay Bijoux.

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OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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Anna wears a top, trousers & necklace by Givenchy, shoes by Alice & Olivia & a Fay Bijoux bracelet.

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

Anna wears a Matthew Williamson dress, shoes by Loriblu, & Jean Claude earrings.

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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Anna wears a jumpsuit & jacket by Catherine Malandrino, a Givenchy necklace, & shoes by Loriblu. www.ohlala-magazine.com

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

fashion

discovering integrity 44

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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Tahir Sultan, a supremely gifted and sophisticated fashion designer breaking the boundaries between East and West, chats to Ohlala! about where his culture meets fashion. n internationally renowned fashion designer, the young Kuwaiti Tahir Sultan has successfully managed to create a legitimate connection to the fashion world via his own line. In other words, he is single handedly responsible for putting Kuwaiti design talent on the map. Tahir’s name quickly became recognised amongst fashion circles, and his creations have been worn by a host of international celebrities. Born to a Kuwaiti father and Indian mother, Tahir is of a rare breed of Kuwaitis, who embrace both of their parent’s heritages; he is extremely proud to represent this intriguing mix of cultures. Unapologetic for what he has achieved, not that he needs to be, Tahir is extremely results driven inspite of the various obstacles he has faced throughout his rise to fame. Tahir’s designs feature modernistic and clean lines, he enhances the feminine form with masculine tailoring and has utilised some of the most intricate and difficult of cutting methods. “Engineered and re-engineered until perfect. Cutting is one of the most difficult parts of this art,” he admits, but when seeing his latest collection one would forgive him for saying so, as some of his pieces from his current line would challenge most fabric cutters working in international fashion houses. Everything is crafted by hand, and Tahir is very much handson when his team is in the process of putting together his latest creations. He has no qualms about re-doing something until it is exactly as he envisions, he has that streak of perfectionism, which translates into his cuts and finish. A graduate of the New English School of Kuwait, Tahir initially studied architecture at university before making his foray into the fashion world. After having worked in India for an architectural firm, he found himself intrigued and stimulated by the freedom of creativity that the fashion world exhibited in India, and so inspired, he went on to study fashion at the Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and

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Design in London. “Architecture was subjective,” Tahir tells Ohlala!, whereas fashion is objective.” Tahir apprenticed with renowned designers such as Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, and with the experience gleaned, found he was capable of branching out on his own. His latest collection recently showed in London. Tahir has set up workshops in Mumbai and London, although he is currently based in Dubai where he feels he is well situated to run his business. Although when asked where his ideal home would be he states Paris as the best place for him to live, work and thrive in. Relaxation for Tahir is taking a walk, going to a museum and breathing in fresh air. Although London allows him those pleasures, Tahir points out that life in the English capital has become slightly more difficult than in the past due to the economic recession and all that resulted from it. Tahir’s line is available at high-end boutiques in London, as well as Harvey Nichols Kuwait, where he informs us that 60 percent was sold out within ten days of stocking. “Kuwait is a very

“Architecture was subjective, whereas fashion is objective.”

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

“No one can deny what I’m doing, it takes selfconfidence, and you will never grow if you just stay in your comfort zone.” 46

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fashion

sophisticated market, where they are very fashion forward. I think the sellout rate of my collections is a sign of my line’s integrity.” This is Tahir’s way of raising awareness regarding Kuwaiti talent, whom he wants to educate and inspire towards the freedom he himself has discovered. A proud Kuwaiti and Khaleeji, Tahir is pleased to be a proponent of individuality, something inherently lacking in the fabric of Kuwaiti society. “Life in Kuwait is static, there are still few solid creative support platforms to launch from, no genuine opportunity, no challenge nor stimulation,” he tells Ohlala!, referring to the myriad things that one can do in say Paris, London, or India, where there are flea markets, the ballet and opera museums to go to for release and inspiration. “No one can deny what I’m doing, it takes selfconfidence,” Tahir says, “and you will never grow if you just stay in your comfort zone. I play hard while I work, and solve any problems which crop up along the way.” Tahir is not without his significant challenges, just like any designer, he has to worry about next season’s line. But he seems to be riding a high and has clearly crossed important milestones in his career. His creations have been worn by the likes of British celebrities such as Sam Faiers, Natalie Dormer, Kimberly Wyatt and Alexandra Burke. His work is also worn by Britain’s next top model in Revlon UK’s billboard and press advertisements. www.ohlala-magazine.com

“Kuwait is very sophisticated market, where they are very fashion forward. I think the sellout rate of my collections is a sign of my lines integrity.” MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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BEAUTY BUZZ Magic Wand

Make skin imperfections disappear with Bobbi Brown Retouching Powders. Available in six colour correcting shades and developed with a sheer, light-transmitting base, this innovative lightweight powder instantly brightens and illuminates skin while reducing excess oil. Brush your desired shade over a bare face or foundation. The white brightens, the pink counters sallowness, the yellow reduces redness, the peach and brown warm the skin, and the rose adds a flush.

The Promise of Spring

Embodying the freshness and softness of spring, Clarins’ Rouge Eclat Spring Makeup Collection gives tribute to the woman of today: natural, elegant and modern. The makeup highlights a delicate smooth complexion, eyes enhanced with plum and shimmery grey tones and lips accentuated with age-defying lipstick in youthful radiant shades.

A Couture Accessory

This new ELIE SAAB Le Parfum purse spray fits snugly into the hand, in the same way a couture gown fits the body. The fragrance carries the ELIE SAAB seal, and is a perfect fragrance accessory allowing the woman who owns it to affirm her radiant femininity at any time, in an elegant and sensual manner. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Girl Meets Curl

This new high-precision mascara from Chanel achieves instant volume and intensely lush colour in a single stroke. Its innovative formula expands, plumping lashes to their fullest. The exclusive new ‘Snowflakes’ brush combines long and short bristles, which ensure clumpfree application to deliver an extreme, eye-opening effect.

“Retouching Powders instantly make your skin look better - yet they’re completely undetectable.”~ bobbi Brown us A voluptuotive ic and add ion composit to in an ode y. femininit

Skin’s Secret Weapon

Bringing together the powers of makeup and skincare, Rimmel’s BB Cream is your nine-in-one answer to a fabulous flawless complexion. Its secret formula contains nine ‘superpowers’ that prime skin, lock in moisture, blast away the appearance of pores and offer protection. MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

beauty

Natasha Bedingfield

“It never smudges, even throughout the most hectic show schedule.”

Lancome Hypnose Custom Volume Mascara

Karlie Kloss

“I’ve stuck to using this lotion to keep my skin hydrated and looking healthy.” Estée Lauder Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Lotion

celebs'

beauty secrets

Charlize Theron

“I don’t use makeup remover — I simply wash my face with it and it removes absolutely everything.” DiorSnow Foaming Cleanser

Ohlala! bring you some of Hollywood’s hottest beauty secrets. With these tips and tricks, the paparazzi will be chasing you down like you’re a celebrity in no time!

Jennifer Aniston

“I use the one in terre amber to brighten my cheeks. I like that it’s more brown, with twinkles in it.”

Chanel Moisturising Bronzing Powder

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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get

TWO-TONE EYES

THE LOOK Celebrities know a thing or two about turning heads (and breaking hearts) — they are some of the most beautiful people in the world after all. Become the centre of attention by following these beauty tips to get Olivia Munn’s smouldering style. just Purple isn’t utumn a r a shade fo now that and winter pon us, you u is g in r sp page out of can take a book with le Olivia’s sty yet gorgeous her simple p look. makeu

Make sure to prep your skin with a good moisturiser, before topping off with a sheer foundation.

Finish the look with a swirl of rosy blush on the cheeks and for the lips, choose a coral pink shade. Now you’re more than ready to be the centre of attention!

Brush a shimmery beige or copper eyeshadow on lids and a golden brown in the creases.

Apply a black volumising mascara to the lashes.

Draw a flash of eyeliner along your top lids with a black pencil. Make sure to keep the eyeliner close to your upper lashes. After that, use a plum or purple liner to draw a very thin line along the bottom lids. www.ohlala-magazine.com

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

beauty

Get Pampered, Get Healthy! Looking to revitalise yourself from within? The Six Senses Spa Kuwait has all the services you need to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. As soon as you walk into Six Senses Spa, located at the Missoni Hotel in Kuwait, it’s very easy to put a hectic lifestyle aside and look forward to relaxing ‘me’ time. The spa hostess offered refreshing water, infused with mint, lemon and green apple. Lucy, one of the butlers at the spa, tells us that they prepare this every evening after closing, with the infusion left overnight in the fridge, so it’s ready to be served the next day. One of their specialties, the Holistic Massage is offered at all Six Senses Spa location. This 80-minute full body massage comes at KD60, and is great for those who need to relieve stress and are looking to

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

relax. Our masseuse, Kim, is very attentive. She asks how much pressure the client wants, which areas to focus on and which to avoid, which oil the client prefers and checks up on you to make sure everything is in line with your needs. Following a treatment, clients can enjoy some time in the relaxation area where the soft lighting, plush pillows, a blanket, the signature ginger tea with honey and a cookie made with different nuts, make the perfect combination to take relaxation to a new level. After spending some time resting, clients can enjoy the saunas, hot shower and other amenities. Six Senses not only caters for relaxation, but also promotes a healthy lifestyle. With a unisex gym and a women’s only gym, at Six Senses Spa you can avail of the expertise of professional trainers, ready to give out a basic body assessment, measuring your height, weight, body fat and water content, along with a blood pressure reading. This is the perfect starting

point for those who are looking to lose fat. Each trainer can help out plan an exercise routine based on your specific needs. Six Senses also has visiting practitioners who are on hand to enhance your healthy experience at the spa. Just recently, Six Senses hosted fitness nutritionist consultant, Trudy Rilling-Collins and motion restoration therapist Dr Chet. Guests meet with Trudy to formulate a fitness plan, consisting of an initial consultation where she’ll discuss goals and eating habits with the client. During the second consultation Trudy gives the client a nutrition plan and tips for avoiding weight gain. This can then be added to the fitness workout program that clients can get with their personal trainers, Esperanza or Emlyn. Dr Chet’s motion restoration therapy is a unique combination of different techniques, such as deep tissue manipulation, joint movement and finger pressure. Clients see him to get help with improving the mobility of joints, relieve musculo-skeletal pain and restore functions of the muscles. Dr Chet says he mostly sees clients needing, “some help with neck, shoulders and lower back; because most people have desk jobs.” He adds that he has had some chronic pain clients with high sensitivity, so it was very challenging to do manual work because a light touch brought a lot of pain. Using a slow technique he was able to bring the pain under control and started moving and stretching the tissues, which relieved the client’s aches. One patient who had been in pain for ten years received ten treatments that helped him become pain-free, which consisted of five daily treatments to get the sensitivity down to an extent where he could start to get the affected area moving again; and finally, he needed five more treatments before the pain was vanquished completely. Dr Chet says he restores “motion to areas that are not working correctly,” whilst employing different types of massage, trigger point work, scar tissue, and reflexive type work. People have called him “miracle hands,” but Dr Chet says, “it’s not a miracle, it’s just human physiology. I have a sensitive touch, so I’m able to feel those areas that are causing the pain, and also to areas that don’t hurt so much,” he says. “I’m able to find where something is very sensitive and I can feel where that is, and gently make it go away rather than digging in and making it hurt the whole time. “I like the idea behind the spa. They are really trying to lookout after people’s wellbeing and they have high quality products with high quality services,” he adds. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

Making scents of it all Behind every perfume, is a ‘nose’, and a fascinating wealth of creation. Ohlala! catches up with Karyn Khoury, senior vice president of Corporate Fragrance Development Worldwide for The Estée Lauder Companies, to chat about the new fragrance, Estée Lauder Amber Mystique, which will see its Middle East debut this month.

ith over 35 years of experience in the fragrance industry, Karyn has worked with three generations of the Estée Lauder family, and is the ‘nose’ behind the brand’s many famed fragrances, currently overseeing the fragrance development for seven brands of The Estée Lauder Companies. Karyn was recently honoured as one of the most influential and indelible fragrance developers of our time at the 2012 Visionaries Gala and Awards Ceremony by the Museum of Modern Arts and Design in New York.

ohlala. What was the inspiration behind Estée Lauder Amber Mystique? 54

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Karyn Khoury. Amber Mystique is inspired by the rich heritage and culture of the Middle East and its infinite treasures. These elements led us to create an elegant and intricate fragrance, reminiscent of a fine work of art — an opulent composition crafted from the most precious and rare materials, inspired by the luxurious colours and textures of Middle Eastern culture and the time-honoured art of perfume creation. oh. Following Wood Mystique why did you create a second fragrance specifically for the Middle East? KK. The development and extremely successful introduction of Wood Mystique gave us a deep understanding of Middle East consumers’ rich and distinctive olfactive palate; their preference www.ohlala-magazine.com

beauty

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beauty

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

“Amber Mystique is inspired by the rich heritage and culture of the Middle East and its infinite treasures.”

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for strong, lavish, luxurious fragrances; and the need for consistent focus on the richest, most precious perfumery ingredients, especially those indigenous to the region. We came to understand the important, multi-faceted role of fragrance in everyday life in this part of the world, especially its role as a symbol of wealth, luxury and good taste. This understanding, combined with our continued fascination with the richness of Middle Eastern culture, inspired us to express our fragrance creativity in a new and different, yet still very regionally inspired creation.

oh. What is the connection between Wood Mystique and Amber Mystique? KK. Both fragrances in the Mystique collection were inspired by the culture, traditions and artistic richness of the Middle East; its regional heritage; distinctive olfactive palette and desire for the most luxurious and richest ingredients in perfumery. Wood Mystique and Amber Mystique are both exquisite, opulent fragrances built from the iconic materials most appealing to and relevant for the Middle East consumer – one of the most discerning connoisseurs of luxurious fragrance in the world.

oh. How would you characterise Estée Lauder Amber Mystique? KK. Amber Mystique is an Oriental Amber in its purest form.

oh. What makes the fragrance so specific to the Middle East? KK. All of the ingredients in Amber Mystique are rare, expensive and evocative of legendary wealth and refined culture, yet its signature notes, which include warm, sultry and mysterious Amber, lavish Taif Rose and exotic Oud Wood, all have strong roots in the tradition of Middle Eastern perfumery.

“Amber has long been prized throughout the ancient and modern world as a symbol of wealth and luxury.”

Taif, one of the most ancient cities in the world. For over a thousand years, this oil has been a traditional souvenir of the pilgrimage to Mecca, but only for the very rich and privileged. Taif Rose is an especially voluptuous variety of rose containing many petals with maximum surface area, making it perfect for releasing an extraordinary and delightfully potent signature rose aroma. Due to its many petals, Taif Roses are particularly vulnerable to losing half their scent by midday, so they must be picked in the vital moment between bud and bloom just before dawn. Every April, a hundred million Taif roses are hand-picked before dawn and it takes twenty thousand roses to produce just a third of an ounce of double-distilled essential oil, making it particularly rare.

oh. Tell us more about the bottle design... KK. The amber hues of the bottle reflect the feeling and amber signature of the fragrance, while a sophisticated Estée Lauder golden cartouche signifies the luxury and rich quality of its composition. To appeal to the sophisticated Middle East consumer, who wants to make a luxury statement with fragrance, Amber Mystique’s exquisite and luxuriously weighted bottle conveys its mystery and richness as well as the warmth of its Oriental notes.

oh. What is the significance of Amber? KK. Amber, one of the most expensive-smelling materials in the perfumers’ palette, is also known as “tears of the gods”. The modern name for amber is thought to have derived from the Arabic word ‘ambar’, meaning ambergris. Derived from natural resins with a scent described as warm, musky, rich and honey-like, amber has long been prized throughout the ancient and modern world as a symbol of wealth and luxury, evoking associations with noble kings and ceremonial traditions.

oh. What makes Taif Rose so precious and rare? KK. Taif Rose tells a story in every breath. Native to the mountains of western Saudi Arabia, this magical, luxuriant flower is named for the town of www.ohlala-magazine.com

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

soulful journeys

MACHU Picchu

Certain places have an almost magnetic pull on our souls, whether they’re to a holy site in a distant land, or to your very own place of private meaning. Every true spiritual journey is a quest, and this feature is for those who want to take a journey that feeds the soul, and set out to discover something new about who we truly are. Trek to Magical Machu Picchu Move from the dark underworld of your mind to the clarity of spiritual consciousness as you connect to the ancient wisdom of this beautiful, magical land. The city of Machu Picchu is amongst the most mysterious of all sacred sites — five square miles of astrological perfection sits majestically on top of the 8,000-feet misty mountain in the Andes. A tour here offers many healing opportunities. Trudging up to Machu 58

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Picchu lets you merge energetically with the sacred sites of Ollantaytambo, Pisac and Sacsayhuaman; whilst going into the cave of Kusillucchayoc will let you experience a rebirth of your sacred self. Hike to the top of Wayna Picchu, or to the ‘Temple of the Moon’, and participate in ceremonies that invoke spiritual ascension. Be awed by the majestic beauty of Lake Titicaca and the floating islands of Uros; or stand in the portal of Aramu Muro, a huge mysterious door-like structure dubbed the ‘gateway to the lands of the gods’.

A visit to Machu Picchu is a voyage of healing and transformation at ‘one of the earth’s most powerful and sacred vortexes of energy’.

Painting Holiday in Mystic Spain Whether you’re a beginner, or a seasoned painter — awaken within you the inspiration of the spiritual artist and mystic with a painting holiday in Southern Spain’s Andalucia. Its panoramic vistas, unique architecture and beautiful climate make it www.ohlala-magazine.com

travel

Yoga Retreat: Ulpotha, Sri Lanka

Looking to use physical movement as a vehicle to achieve spiritual transcendence and the ultimate union of body, mind and soul? There’s nothing like getting away from the daily grind of work and this awesome location is the perfect prescription for a wellneeded yoga retreat. Head to the traditional working ecovillage of Ulpotha, which is hidden in an exquisite, secluded, wooded dell at the foot of the Galgiriyawa mountains, a two-hour drive northwest of Kandy in Sri Lanka. The village has been a pilgrimage site for thousands of years and is now a yoga, spa and Ayurveda retreat open to guests for part of the year. Nominated for numerous awards over the years, Ulpotha regularly makes it onto lists of the world’s best spas. Book a session in Ayurveda therapy and yoga classes, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings as well as the delectable vegan cuisine. Ulpotha is run as a non-profit retreat and all proceeds from paying guests go to support the locals who manage the attached self-sustaining organic farm and staff of the facility when it is open. On-site ventures include a biodiverse organic farm, reforestation of the village and surrounding land and a free Ayurvedic clinic open year round to villagers.

ANDALUCIA, SPAIN

Ulpotha, sri lanka

Laughing Out Loud in Bali

BALI

the perfect place for you to explore your creativity. Let your imagination run free as you work intensively on your study of art — developing your craft, or trying out other painting techniques. As you do, discover your ability to capture a landscape with a www.ohlala-magazine.com

sketch pad and brush; and unearth forms, lines and nuances of colour that you have never seen before. Explore the depths of the artist within you by restoring your connection to the power of nature. This is the painting holiday for all of YOU: body, mind and spirit.

Laughter is a preventative medicine (it’s been scientifically proven), laughter slows down ageing (and the appearance of wrinkles) and best of all, it causes the body to produce serotonin and dopamine, neurochemicals that cause the brain to feel happy and think positive thoughts, as well as endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain killers. If all these sound good to you, then head to Bali, Indonesia, where its various retreat houses offer Laughter Therapy. Rediscover the inner joy that laughter can bring as you return to the deep centre of your true self. Bali Retreat with Isira is one such place where they let you experience some powerful Laughter Yoga where participants and teachers alike celebrate the joy of life with cackles of contagious laughter. You get to experience so much more too as you meditate amidst the sacred beauty of Bali. Uplift your body, mind and soul through yoga, chanting, meditation, visits to sacred sites, creative expression, play, massage and cleansing food. MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

DIVA DRIVES

mercedes benz ML 500 Urban jungle or desert dunes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the ML 500 takes you everywhere in undeniable power and panache.

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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motoring

he Mercedes Benz ML 500 is a superb midsize luxury crossover SUV. Its elegant and powerful exterior is pleasing to the eye. Once you step inside you are greeted with first-class materials and traditional craftsmanship giving the interiors a lavish and sporty, yet comfortable look; the ML 500 gets you anywhere in style. Equally pleasant to drive in busy city traffic, as well as off-roading in the desert, the car is a dream ride. The seats are ergonomically designed to offer the finest comfort. The front seats are fully power-adjustable as standard, and can optionally be fitted with climatised seats and massage function. The rear seats are very spacious and offer generous amounts of legroom even for tall passengers. Important to the Gulf, is the exceptionally versatile climate control system, which can be adjusted to the desires of each individual occupant. The COMAND multimedia system works well and allows the driver to effortlessly select the car’s more complicated infotainment options without making simpler commands too difficult. The 17.8cm screen display is clear, the menus are stress-free to navigate and the whole system is easily operated from the rotary knob in the centre console. The car that I had came with Active Parking Assist with a 360-degree parking assist camera. The sound-system is excellent turning the car into a concert-hall experience on the move. The ML 500 is powered by a 4.7-litre V8 engine delivering an impressive 408-horsepower. Considering that it is actually quite a large and heavy car, the acceleration is rapid at 5.6-seconds from zero to 100-kilometres per hour. The engine is powerful and the power reserves are plenty to kick up more acceleration even in faster speeds. On highway the car feels superbly steady and smooth, a joy to drive. Even though some people might say that the ML 500 is more of a city 4x4, a lot of fun can be had off-road. Once you press the off-road and the ground clearance height buttons on the centre console, you prepare the car for rougher terrain. The systems adapt the settings for the engine output, automatic transmission, anti-lock braking system, electronic stability program and electronic traction system, as well as increasing the ground clearance height, making driving off-road a whole lot easier and safer. When taken on rocky terrain the ML 500 proved to be very capable of clearing the bumps and variations on the surface. On sand hills it

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demonstrated to be equally excellent and the Downhill Speed Regulation DSR worked well in controlling the descent. The beauty of the ML 500 is that with it you can have the best of both worlds – luxurious, city highway driving and fantastic fun off-roading. Mercedes Benz having historically been at the forefront of automotive safety it comes as no surprise that the ML 500 is fitted with a multitude of safety features. Apart from those already mentioned with the off-roading, it also comes with collision warning system and PreSafe system, which anticipates an imminent crash and takes measures to better secure occupants and automatically applies the brakes when collision is about to happen. Front and rear side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag as well as ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard. The car that I had also came with the optional Lane Tracking package, which includes blind spot and lane departure warnings. Overall the ML 500 is a fabulous choice, as it ticks all the right boxes in every aspect – sophisticated, well-designed, spacious, sporty, powerful and extreme fun! It is a car that the whole family will enjoy no matter where you decide to take it. Can I have one please?

Sari Mabire Diva Driver

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

dining

nothing

but the best With a vibrant atmosphere, quality fare and great service, The Meat Co Kuwait promises an excellent dining experience.

ocated within The Gardens zone at the 360 Mall, The Meat Co restaurant boasts a large dining area, catering to those looking for quality and an inviting and cosy ambiance. Greeted on arrival by Hussein Al-Araibi, regional manager of The Meat Co, we marveled at the décor, which uses a rich colour palette of copper, chocolates and reds, inspired by its African heritage. Obviously a popular venue on Kuwait’s varied dining scene, the bustling restaurant is a great place to hold meetings, or come to relax with family or friends, as the pleasant and professional staff make you feel right at home. “We are continually looking at ways to go beyond our guests’ expectations,” Hussein tells us, “we want every person, to not just have a good dining experience, but an exceptional one.” Diners are personally greeted on arrival and offered a small dish, such as a light soup served in a cup to whet their appetite, while they browse the extensive menu. On birthday celebrations and other special occasions, the staff will gather around your table beating lively South African and Kenyan rhythms on the drums, singing and dancing. Truly animated and all smiles you can tell they relish the opportunity and feel the warmth of their welcome. The perfect host, part of Hussein’s personal touch is that he welcomes his diners, making the effort to get to know each of them by name, ensuring they will come back time and time again. Appealing to those with a hearty appetite, or great for sharing, each dish on the menu offers very generous portion sizes and is invitingly presented on sparkling white china. Offering a variety of mouthwatering cuisine to select from, you can choose Super Aged Meat, Hanging Beef Skewers, Connoisseur’s Choice, 62

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Specialties (such as barbeque ribs and lamb cutlets), Gourmet Burgers, Chicken, Seafood, Vegetarian and Pasta, Side Orders, and (breathe deeply) Desserts. An expert on The Meat Co delights, Hussein chose an assortment of entrèes for us to sample. Salt and Pepper Calamari, scored and lightly tossed in salt, pepper and spiced flour, then shallow-fried and served with homemade Nam Jim Sauce – delicious. The Red Chilli Prawns consisting of succulent Gulf prawns pan-fried with garlic, ginger, red chilli, lemongrass and cream, is a definite must-try. Meat lovers will favour the Riblets, tender, flame-grilled ribs sliced and served with their homemade basting. The Meat Co also boasts an appetising assortment of salads, which are the ideal addition to heavier courses. Citrus Salad, of mandarin, orange and grapeftuit, served with mixed garden leaves and drizzled with strawberry dressing is a zesty combination of flavours, which will leave your palette feeling cleansed. Rocket, Apple and Walnut Salad features fresh rocket leaves, drizzled with sweet balsamic dressing, finished with shavings of aged parmesan, sliced apple and spiced walnuts – a tasty amalgamation of textures – fresh and crunchy.

“Rooted and born in the rainbow nation of South Africa,” The Meat Co’s pièce de résistance is of course their meat, and you won’t be disappointed. The menu features a detailed description of each cut and preferred way of cooking to give you an in-depth look at what you’re ordering. All are served with your choice of starch and a wide range of sauces. “The quality of our beef is carefully managed from pasture to plate in our commitment that an exceptional product is served every time. Select grain-fed cuts are matured to perfection on our premises, then flame-grilled with our internationally renowned unique house basting, au naturel or black pepper crusted.” The grain-fed beef is said to produce a richer taste. From the Connoisseur’s Choice, the Australian Wagyu Beef, 350 days grain – fed Wagyu is rich in marbling and flavour, tender, juicy and naturally high in Omega 6 and 3 – very appealing. “As Wagyu is heavily marbled it needs to be cooked for longer than a regular steak to allow the fat to turn to juice and the meat to soften,” Hussein advises us. “The best choice for a Wagyu fillet is medium-rare, and for Ribeye, medium-well.” From the Seafood section, we had the pleasure of tasting the Salmon Skewer, salmon fillet cubes (cooked to your liking) skewered with leeks and grilled with Teriyaki sauce. A delightful dish, it simply melts in the mouth, and we highly recommend it for those who prefer fish as a main. The Marinated Chicken Skewer is also a firm favourite. Thigh fillets are marinated with Eastern spices, skewered with peppers, and flame-grilled until tender for a delectable alternative to the succulent beef options. With already satisfied appetites, to conclude our dining experience, we opted for the Meat Co Dessert Tasting Platter, which consists of The Chef ’s selection of five mini desserts to tempt your palette – each dish a satisfying eruption of sweetness. Perhaps indulge in the divine Tiramisu, Crème Brulee, the richly sticky Chocolate and Pistachio Fondant, or a Traditonal South African Malva Pudding, among many others. Every one is sure to satiate those with a sweet tooth, and is a perfect end to a superb meal. www.ohlala-magazine.com

“We are continually looking at ways to go beyond our guests’ expectations.”

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Images by George Mathew

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

a i l a iFtANTASTICO artful mellow ambience, ts a s it h it w s er in d s esen Bice entice ite food. Ohlala! pr onella’ is u q ex d n a or ri te ati urban in nal dish, Salmon ‘M io pt ce ex r ei th r fo recipe and Fennel. with Green Sauce

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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dining

Salmon a’ ‘Mationell n with Gree ennel Sauce and F

Serves 1

healthy and “The dish is very . I want to easy to prepare g that people share somethin e.” can enjoy at hom rente Chef Andrea Pa

authentic decor and superbly te. ran sto magic of Bice Ri ce, meals construct the ren Flo m fro rs chandelie Romantic sparkling nd piano – gra a , 26 19 in n ila photographs from M ional Italy the beauty of tradit these details convey c Italian with a modern vibe. s itself on its authenti The restaurant pride Their ts. ien red fresh, savoury ing ke and cuisine, made from Ca ab Cr t, an pis mberi Ca delicious pasta, Ga nal Italian prepared by professio are les tab lec de er oth emphasis ts pu y’ Da the ecial of Menu’ chefs, whilst their ‘Sp al eci ‘Sp n flavours. The on memorable Italia ests of gu for is ef ch the eks by offered every two we discerning palates.

Soft lighting, refined

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INGREDIENTS 200 grams Salmon fillet 100 grams Parsley s 30 grams Bread crumb 20 grams Olive oil 3 grams Salt gra 20 ms Horseradish 10 grams Milk e oil ms 10 gra Extra virgin oliv d ppe cho , 4 pieces Fennel Salt and Pepper Thyme, fresh Rosemary, fresh

METHOD oil along with thyme and ons Heat two teaspo of cook pan. Add the salmon and rosemary in a non-stick an in ce pla and h side. Season for four minutes on eac s. ute min six 180-degrees for oven pre-heated to at ick -st non a in a drizzle of oil Braise the fennel with four a pot combine parsley, in ce, pan. For the sau per. pep and t sal bread crumbs, teaspoons of oil, milk, il unt ts ien red r, mix the ing Using a hand-held blende ted gra y shl fre e. Add the you get a creamy textur salt and pepper to taste. ra ext and horseradish, ce fennel, drizzling the sau Plate up the salmon and e. sid on top, or ser ved on the

RENTE CHEF ANDREAPaPA e Academia rente attended th

Chef Andrea ints of learn the finer po Barilla in Rome to icant time nif sig a then spent Italian cuisine. He ellness Park at Aquagranda W as executive chef move to ed but later decid in Livigno, Italy ured as a no ho s wa he , nths urant abroad. For two mo sta re n lia at Tr ynd Ita special guest chef ly 2010, Ju In al. tiv fes d n foo during their Italia io’s’ as its n restaurant ‘Oliv he joined the Italia Arabia, i ud Sa , dh ya Ri ef in food executive sous ch of ds ar nd ed high sta where he maintain and service. p gave ter national Grou Joining the Bice In gnition for co re d ve ser de wellChef Andrea his August In . ne Italian cuisi his superb skills in in Beirut, ce Bi in ef ch us as so 2011, he started ef with ch ive ut oted to exec before being prom n. He ow kn ly de wi ng mi his ingenuity beco touch in plying his expert has since been ap it venue, wa Ku e th of g settin the sophisticated d VIPs. an rs do to ambassa sometimes catering night. from 12 noon to 12 mid Bice restaurant is open 7 0247. For reservations, call 222

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

dining

hotspots

Divine Oriental Feast WHERE? The Regency, Silk Road A variety of rich cuisine… The Regency’s ‘Oriental Extravaganza’ features Oriental Chef Hussain Muselmani and Oriental Pastry chef Bassam Fadlou with their savoury and delightful food. Choices include Chef Muselmani’s famous homemade lentil soup and mezze, as well as shish tawook and kofta khush khash. These are accompanied by a variety of premium meats, fish and prawn dishes. Diners will be delighted with the extensive homemade 66

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

Lebanese desserts by Fadlou, for which the hotel is famous. The open kitchen allows guests to observe chefs in action while they prepare some of Lebanon’s most well known treats: delicacies such as delicious shawarma and succulently grilled seafood and meats. The restaurant is open from 11am to 12midnight.. RESERVATIONS. 2576 6749 www.ohlala-magazine.com

dining Tantalising Americanstyle Breakfast WHERE? IHOP, The Avenues mall Tease your taste buds… IHOP, the iconic American restaurant, is famous for its scrumptious and luscious variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner selections. Fans speak with fondness of their delicious pancakes bursting with robust flavours, such as the harvest grain ‘n nut pancakes, strawberry banana pancakes and the yummiest, chocolate chip pancakes. The new restaurant boasts an extensive menu: a wide variety of omelettes, signature pancakes, French toast and waffles, crepes, sandwiches and burgers, appetisers, soups, salads and desserts. IHOP also incorporates international flavours into its menu; dinner favourites such as the Big Steak Stacker, Pick-A-Pancake Combo, Rooty Tooty Fresh and Fruity, Country Fried Steak, Crispy Chicken Strips, French Onion Pot Roast, T- bone Steak, along with a diverse assortment of low-calorie healthy choices. IHOP is open from 11am to 11.30pm.

Flavourful Indian dishes

Grand Gastronomic Fare

WHERE? Moti Mahal, Arabian Gulf Street, Shaab

WHERE? Taal Restaurant, Al Argan Complex, Ta’awan Street

Tandoori cooked to excellence… The appeal of Moti Mahal Deluxe hinges on its ability to provide a genuine

New hearty Indian dishes and zesty drinks… Taal restaurant has revamped its a la carte menu and added a new

dining experience, reminiscent of Indian restaurants in the East. You have a choice of sampling some of India’s finest flavours, such as the Bhatti Ka Jheenga, Murg Tikka Masala and Tamatar Dhaniya Shorba. Their signature and quality tandoori is present in a variety of flavours, from the Tandoori Brocolli, Tandoori Aloo and Tandoori Paneer. Drawn from India’s rich culinary and cultural history are the amazing savoury varieties of their speciality biryanis, such as the Sada Basmati and Murg Tikka Briyani. Their vegetarian dishes leave you enamoured with their distinctive taste, particularly the Dal Makhani. Moti Mahal lets you enjoy the very best of Indian cuisine. They are open from 12pm to 12midnight. RESERVATIONS. 2266 7050

beverage and dessert menu. Created by internationally renowned Master Chef judge, Kunal Kapur, the new menu includes a wide selection of heavenly Indian dishes. These include Grilled Malai Lobster, Kabab-e-Barq, Grilled Baingan Splendor and many more. The new menu underscores a variety of tantalising ‘skinny’ beverages, catering to weight watchers. Try the delicious Berry Skinny, and the refreshing Skinny Mojito Wings. New dessert additions range from the delightful Green Apple and Cinnamon Flavoured Yoghurt to the delicious Orange Peel Kulfi. The restaurant is open from 12pm to 11.30 pm.

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RESERVATIONS. 2225 3143 MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

L’Occitane Launches products to please women on march 8

PeonyEdt

The Peony EDT captures the subtle aura of the peony flower, in a generous perfume marked with green freshness. The ideal gift for blossoming women.

Divine Cream Shea Butter Hand Cream

Enriched with 20 percent shea butter, this super-creamy balm penetrates quickly to protect, nourish and moisture hands. Honey, almond extracts and coconut oil are blended with shea butter to create this extremely effective formula. The rich texture leaves hands soft and smooth with no oily traces, and can be applied as often as needed.

The divine combination of organic immortelle and myrtle essential oils offers enhanced radiance and skin tone, provide skin with supreme nourishment and immediate comfort. Facial contours are lifted and redefined. Wrinkles are smoothed; skin is visibly firmer, brighter and younger looking. We bet she will recover the youthful skin she always wanted.

Peony Petal Soap

This fragrant soap recalls a blooming peony bud. It’s very soft, natural origin base cleanses the hands and body without drying them. The skin is delicately perfumed, and enveloped by the delicate flowery fragrance of peonies.

Cherry Blossom Body Cream

Enriched with Shea Butter with its nourishing properties, this body lotion has a light texture that is quickly absorbed, leaving an iridescent veil on the body. The skin is moisturised and perfumed with a delicate and enveloping flowery scent.

Verbena Shower Gel

Fresh and clean body shampoo! Each squeeze of the non-breakable plastic bottle releases the crisp, citrus scent of L’Occitane verbena. Essential oils of verbena, orange, geranium and lemon tree smooth and nurture even the most sensitive skin, and permeate the room with a winning aroma. 68

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

Cherry Blossom Hand cream

Enriched with Shea Butter, this creamy and non-greasy moisturizer nourishes and protects the hands, leaving them delicately scented. Containing cherry extract from Luberon, Provence.

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shopping

Available at THE One Marina Mall and The Avenues.

stylish & chic home décor Calling all home fashion hunters looking for inspiration in the décor department to check out THE One’s sensational Spring 2013 Collection, features a host of traditional and modern styles redefined in more ways than one. Symbolising the very essence of chic, luxurious living, this fashionably feminine style harmoniously blends a colour palette of nude hues and fresh accents of blue, purple, copper, gold and silver, with mirrored furniture, weathered pieces, stainless steel and sumptuous textures for a look that whispers ‘understated opulence’. www.ohlala-magazine.com

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

Kuwait

hotspots

If you want your event to be featured in Ohlala! Email: events@ohlala-magazine.com kuwait FASHION WEEK 2013

Abstract Works of Hussain Madi March 6 to April 6 Shuwaikh Block 2, Street 28, Life Centre

Week, for those who are interested in fashion, design, art, decoration, makeup, accessories and graphic design. The idea to hold such an event was conceived after several excellent exhibitions by the ILOVEKUWAIT.COM Expo, which was a huge success in the 2011 to 2012 season. The Kuwait Fashion Week showcasing Spring Summer 2013 collections will be a festive marvel of colour, style and ingenuity of the Kuwait youth. Meet emerging talented personalities who offer eye-catching items for purchase. More than 160 booths will be put up to showcase the wares and services of fashion designers, restaurants, coffee shops, beauty salons and many more.

WHY GO? Art moves the soul, so why not marvel at the stirring and intense work of one of the pioneers of modern art in the Middle East, Hussain Madi. He is a master in the craft of merging realism and abstract to showcase excellent pieces that reveal his transcendent vision. Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) in collaboration with Dar Al Funoon presents ‘Madi The Abstract Works from 1963-2013’, a retrospective exhibition to honour Madi’s history and achievements, highlighting his philosophical contributions infused in his abstract works. This exhibition is an opportunity to view Madi›s outstanding ability to create admirable abstract creations for more than five decades. His paintings and sculptures derive inspiration from the basic pillars of the world like nature, the elements, women and love.

S. ilovekuwait.com T. 6666 8547 E. ilovekuwait.expo@hotmail.com, “mailto:info@capkuwait.com”

S. www.capkuwait.com T. 2492 5636 E. info@capkuwait.com

Kuwait Fashion Week March 22 to March 31 American University of Kuwait WHY GO? A must-attend this month is the exciting and vibrant Kuwait Fashion

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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society

Al-Sadu Children’s Workshops

E r u v i a n F o o d F E s T i va L

WHY GO? When you desire to create something fun and artistic, visit the Al-Sadu Workshop to channel your energy into making exciting art projects with your child. They teach you interesting crafts that are relaxing and fun. Sessions are available from 10am to 1pm, and cost KD10. On March 2, come along with your child to weave together cute and colourful Pom Pom animals, and on March 9 and March 16, you can learn how to stitch the Al-Sadu motifs using cross-stitching.

March 2, 9 & 16 Arabian Gulf road, next to Kuwait National Museum

E. info@alsadu.org.kw T. 2243 2395

Extravagant Peruvian Food Festival March 10 to 15 JW Marriott Hotel, Al Shuhada Street, Kuwait City

‫مهرج ـ ـ ــان البيـ ــرو الرائ ــع‬ WHY GO? The fantastic Peruvian Food Festival is an exuberant affair that

attempts to recreate the diverse beauty, culinary impression and tradition of Peru. Hosted at the Restaurant La Brasserie at the JW Marriott, there is a lot of fun and excitement to be had. Traditional music will serenade the guests as they are entertained by Peruvian professional dancers, flown in exclusively for the event to display the sultry Peruvian national dance, ‘Marinera’ and other mesmerising dance moves. As part of the entertainment, you can take pictures in custom-made ‘ponchos’ as if you are on a holiday. Feast on the cuisine prepared by a famous Peruvian Chef, proficient for mixing fresh ingredients and tangy essences into tempting Peruvian food, such as the flavour-heavy Fish Ceviche and palatable Lomo Saltaldo (sautéed beef). Guests will also have the winthe a tripheart to beautiful Peru! America’s fondness on opportunity a journeytoto of South

ruvian Food Festival

‫ حيـث نقــدم لكـم‬.‫اإن�سمـوا الى و�سـط اأميـركـا اجلنوبيـة النـاب�ض باأطعمتـه الرائعـة‬ ‫ لـومو �ســالتـادو (�للحم �لبقري �ملتبل) بالبو �ال �أوليفو (�أخطبوط‬،‫�سيڤيت�ش �ل�سمك‬ ‫ و�لعديد من �أطباق �لبريو �الأ�سيلة لتزيد من متعة �إ�ستمتاعكم‬،)‫مع �لزيتون �الأ�سود‬ .‫باأطعمة تقدم الأول مرة يف �لكويت‬

Join us or good food. Be it Fish Ceviche, Lomo Saltado (sautéed beef), S. dining@jwmarriottkuwait.com Pulpo al Olivo (Octopus in black olive sauce), we have captured T. 22455550 the true flavors of Peruvian bounty for a truly unforgettable dining experience – for the first time in Kuwait.

‫إبتد�ء من‬www.ohlala-magazine.com � ،‫ مار�ش‬15 ‫ ولغاية‬10 ‫• �إن�سم �إلينا يف مطعم البر��سريي على �لع�ساء من‬ .‫م�سا ًء‬7 ‫�ل�ساعة‬ .‫• �إ�ستمتع بلوحات فلكلورية من �لبريو و �أح�سل على �سورة تذكارية بالرد�ء �لتقليدي للبريو‬

Viva Telecom’s ‘512’ Gaming Tournament March 21 to 23 360 Mall Exhibition Hall WHY GO? Gaming enthusiasts will love a full-on tournament dedicated to finding the most skilled console player. The Viva 512 tournament unites gamers across Kuwait to compete in the Fifa 13 on Playstation 3. The event will host 512 contestants over three days, with the one winning the nine games declared as champion on March 23. The event is open to anyone interested in participating and watching a highly intense football match. Stroll around the venue and interact with players and sponsors, or enjoy some of the entertainment and prizes offered, the largest in console gaming history for the GCC. E. info@512kuwait.com

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

33 Boutique Mall Officially Opens 33 Boutique Mall recently celebrated their official opening to the delight of invited guests and shoppers.

Anya Hindmarch Now at the avenues The new Anya Hindmarch Boutique has just opened in Harvey Nichols, Grand Avenue at The Avenues.

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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society

Welcome the New Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Porsche Centre Kuwait recently celebrated the arrival of the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 in Kuwait.

BlackBerry Z10

launches in kuwait

The new BlackBerry Z10 and BlackBerry 10OS was recently introduced in Kuwait in an exclusive VIP event to celebrate the launch of the new platform.

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

Box Hill College Kuwait Marks Five Years Box Hill College Kuwait recently marked its fifth year of presence in the country.

German National Tourist

office workshop

The German National Tourist Office organised a workshop focusing on family and youth holidays in Germany at Missoni Hotel.

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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society

Service Hero Awards 2012

A glittering ceremony was held to announce the winners of the Service Hero Awards 2012 at Missoni Hotel.

Sheraton Kuwait Honours ‘Starchoice’ members Sheraton Kuwait Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait recently hosted their fourth exclusive ‘Starchoice’ event. www.ohlala-magazine.com

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

Kuwait Yacht Show 2013

The Kuwait Yacht Show 2013 officially opened at Marina Crescent, Salmiya, with a gala dinner followed by a preview of the showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highlights.

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

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society

Gulf Bank’s Improved Gulf Rewards Program

Gulf Bank has announced the enhancement of its ‘Gulf Rewards’ program, a new and exclusive program that allows Gulf Bank credit cardholders to redeem their loyalty points with more than 300 airlines and over 150,000 hotels worldwide. This unique program rewards credit card customers with instantly redeemable points that are exchangeable for a range of travel offers and benefits. Points are awarded for every transaction made with either a Gulf Bank Visa or a Gulf Bank MasterCard credit card, a cash withdrawal or a POS. The more a customer spends on their credit card, either locally or internationally, the more points they will earn. Gulf Bank has also created a dedicated webpage, www.e-gulfbank.com, where customers can view their points, check their balance and booking history, redeem points instantly, receive e-ticket confirmation of their bookings and benefit from frequently advertised special offers.

Marina Hotel’s Annual Staff Party

Starbucks’ Top Three Espresso Favourites Return

Starbucks has announced the comeback of its espresso innovations – the Double Mocha Machiatto and Vanilla Latte beverages. Coffee lovers can also indulge with the exclusive rich coffee blend, Guatemala Casi Cielo. The Double Mocha Macchiato, a Starbucks original that mixes chocolate and coffee, is a rich white chocolate blended beverage with freshly steamed milk and a topping of velvety foam, an intense hit of espresso roast and a finish of dark chocolate drizzle. Starbucks has also brought back its signature Vanilla Latte, a best-selling classic. This drink features a lusciously rich, full bodied Starbucks espresso with sweet vanilla syrup, steamed milk and lightly topped with silky foam. Starbucks’ masterpiece, the Guatemala Casi Cielo, which combines four coffees from the Antigua Valley, has a delightful floral aroma and a rich flavour.

Operations Manager to Head Paragon Kuwait

Paragon Marketing Communications, celebrated for its innovative work, has kicked off its New Year by locally infusing new blood throughout its agency ranks coupled with top management restructuring in the Paragon independent network. Ivan Totev Paragon’s Bulgaria operations manager takes the helm at Paragon Kuwait, while his predecessor Diana George leads Paragon Oman. Ivan Totev launched his carrier as a copywriter and swiftly honed his skills at international agencies in Bulgaria such as Bates, Ogilvy & Mather and Saatchi & Saatchi, where he was managing director prior to joining Paragon. Ivan’s rich experience extends beyond the telecom, retail, financial and FMCG sectors, which he is most passionate about having worked for the last 15 years for some of the Balkan’s (Eastern European) mega brands in specialised fields of integrated marketing communications, branding, new business development and consultancy.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Art Olympiad Competition

Marina Hotel Kuwait held its annual staff party at Salwa Sabah Al Ahmed Theater and Hall. The event was filled with fun and entertainment, giving attendees the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy. In his welcoming speech, Nabil Hammoud, General Manager, appreciated the team spirit that prevailed between the hotel’s management and employees. He also reiterated the hotel’s vision and commitment to mentoring the employees in a professional working environment. Finally, Hammoud thanked all the staff for their integrity and dedication for the year 2012 and encouraged the staff to aim higher. The event featured special recognition awards in various categories for the best performers of the year, the best supervisors of the year and best employee of the year. The evening also witnessed the announcement of winners for Mr & Ms Marina 2012, a contest-based on professionalism, team effort and peer relationship. It was fairly judged via ballot by the hotel employees.

bu sin ess

Landmark Group Kuwait’s announcement for the voting of entries for ‘Art Olympiad 2013’ has resulted to 50 shortlisted drawings, which were put up on the Landmark Group Facebook page for the public to vote for. For this year’s competition, students were provided with themes including Design Your Own Living Room, Graffiti, Your Favourite Cartoon Character, Kuwait Liberation Day, among others. Those selected were judged based on creativity, workmanship, overall impression and relevance to the theme. The competition saw an impressive number of submissions with more than 160 entries from 16 different schools. The final selection for winners was based on 50 percent of the public’s votes and 50 percent judge’s scores comprising of renowned Kuwaiti artists, Asad Bunashi and Maha Al Mansoor.

MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

WIN YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY Are you a keen ohlala! reader? this is your chance to not only receive the magazine to your door for a year but if you subscribe this month you will automatically be entered into a draw to win some fantastic prizes, including...

a holiday in thailand!

You could enjoy the breathtaking views and ultra-luxurious surroundings of the samui sunset villa, in koh samui, thailand.

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ms.pisces

Happy birthday

ohlala!stars

Giovanni unveils your future for March…

Early on this month there is likely to be quite an upheaval for you to contend with and change is something your sign does not handle very well. That said, you will have to overcome this hurdle if you are to move on towards greater achievements for the remainder of March and beyond, so dig in and deal with it! On a more positive note, those of you in the market for love could find yourselves the object of an admirer’s affections and may even be invited to go on a date before the month is over. Try to push past your shyness and let your hair down a little. This could be just the boost you need to get those sparks of passion fired up again! For some of you, this year’s birthday celebration is certainly going to be one to remember.

Pisces-at a glance (February 19-march19)

Those who fall under the sign of Pisces are usually very shy and romantic who often have a creative leaning, and fairly dreamy outlook on life. They are trustworthy and understanding and very loyal as friends, if a little impractical. Romantic and never happier than when they are in love and in a relationship, they can sometimes be seen as needy but in truth they just enjoy being wanted and will often go out of their way to be accommodating for a loved one. That isn’t to say they are ‘pushovers’ in any respect and they still value their freedom and an element of privacy, even in the most intimate of relationships. They are not fond of tight spaces, or any form of control that might restrict their progress. The dreamer of the Zodiac, Pisces does not always deal with the reality of the world very well and sometimes they retreat into themselves when presented with obstacles that they feel choke their ambitions. This makes them rebellious and sometimes unpredictable, especially when dealing with people in authority.

Aries (March 20 – April 19)

Although you don’t mix well with water - March is traditionally the time of Pisces - it is going to be quite a month for many of you, especially where business is concerned. You have a few irons in the fire and you want to strike now, whilst the initiative is with you. Just go full steam ahead because everything you do right now is going to turn to gold and with the inspirational support of Pisces behind you, this could provide a really productive outcome.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Pisces is one of your most compatible signs and because of this you thrive during March, especially in circumstances that call for a creative approach. That is what this next few weeks is going to be all about for you and if you are in the market to make money from a unique talent of your own then it’s good news all round! Your biggest problem might be prioritising because there will be a great deal of demand for what you have to offer and spreading yourself too thinly is the challenge you need to overcome.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

You are likely to find this month a particularly frustrating one as your plans to move certain projects along are held up by forces outside of your control. However, don’t allow things to get on top of you. Whilst you are waiting for certain issues to resolve themselves, think about taking stock of other areas in your life — namely a neglected relationship — because there is a still a great deal of work to be done to restore a partnership to its former state.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Health matters will take a turn for the better when you www.ohlala-magazine.com

Famous Pisces Elton John George Harrison Andrew Lloyd Weber Michelangelo Drew Barrymore Marlon Brando Robert Downey Jr. Elizabeth Taylor Michael Caine Albert Einstein Steve Jobs

realise that a current course of medication has fortunately proven to be successful. Now you can look to get yourself back on track and put these concerns behind you. Your renewed sense of confidence will see you revive a neglected career, and for some of you, there could even be the decision to go travelling. Whatever you do, this month is going to be the start of a new and positive phase in your life, so make sure you enjoy it.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

It seems that a rash purchase made at the start of the year is going to cause you some problems in March as things start to go wrong with regrettable results. You clearly did not take the advice given to you and it might be wise to cut your losses and get out while you can rather than trying to fix a problem that is really not worth fixing. Now is certainly not the time to try and nurse your wounded pride. It’s far more important to get straight.

Virgo (August 23 — September 22)

After a long period away, your return to family and friends is going to make you realise just how much you are loved, as well as how much you have missed those closest to you. However, once you settle back into regular life, it won’t be long before you want to seek a new challenge. There are several opportunities that will find you, although not all of them may come around as immediately as you would want them to. Be patient and work out the best option in the long term rather than surrender to the easiest choice on the table.

Libra September 23 – October 22

For some time now you have laboured with several choices in your life and if anything, what you are really seeking is some kind of direction. March will see you presented with a job offer that could go some way to offering a long-term solution but you should really go with your gut instincts because the rewards — so long as you keep focused — could be plentiful. Simply put your mind to it and you will succeed.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

If you have been trying to balance your finances then this month you have to face facts and realise that you cannot hide from the truth any longer. Serious action is required and the first thing you need to do is get someone in a professional capacity to review your accounts and put them in order. It might be a scary prospect but you shouldn’t take this as failure but an opportunity to get your world back on track. Better times are out there. You just need to find them again.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Your stubborn nature can sometimes land you in hot water and this month you might find that you are forced into a difficult situation because you dig your heels in a little too deeply. You should perhaps rethink your attitude but that might be an easier thing to say than do. For now, your most immediate problem could be sorting out the mess you have put yourself in and trying to reconcile the relationships that might have been harmed because of it.

Capricorn (DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 19)

A recent break-up will still be playing heavily on your mind and while you may have tried to distance yourself from your immediate past, familiar surroundings and too many raw memories are making it very difficult for you to move on. Try and get away for a while and perhaps clear your head and your heart for new opportunities. Life moves in cycles and not everything is always black and white. Give yourself a few weeks to put some colour back into your world.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Your heart is struggling to accept a decision that has left you nursing a painful wound and it might be some time before you are able to get over it. However, every cloud has a silver lining and March 21 will see things change for the better when news reaches you of an overseas opportunity that might just take your mind off things and prove to be too good to ignore. MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

women we love As March 8 marks International Women’s Day, Ohlala! looks at some of the most influential women of all time. It is their indomitable spirit that we celebrate to this day.

Mother Teresa

Katharine Hepburn An iconic figure of twentieth century film, she won four Oscars and received over 12 Oscar nominations. Her lifestyle was unconventional for her time and through her acting and life she helped redefine traditional views of women’s role in society.

Aung San Suu Kyi

Marie Curie First woman to receive the Nobel Prize and the first person to win it for two separate categories: namely her research into radioactivity (Physics, 1903) and for Chemistry in 1911. Later on, she also helped develop the first X-ray machines.

Audrey Hepburn She defined feminine glamour and dignity, and was later voted as the most beautiful woman of the twentieth century. After her acting career ended in the 1960s, she devoted the remainder of her life to humanitarian work with UNICEF.

Eva Peron Widely loved by ordinary Argentinians, she campaigned tirelessly for both the poor and for the extension of women’s rights and later became the Western world’s first female president, taking the helm after her husband, Juan Perón, dies.

OHLALA! MARCH 2013

Influential talk show host Oprah Winfrey was the first woman to own her own talk show, and today her very own television channel. Her show is tremendously influential, usually focusing on issues facing women.

Diana, Princess of Wales

Amelia Earhart She was the first woman to cross the Atlantic in a solo flight in 1928, just one year after the first ever crossing made by Charles Lindberg. It was a significant achievement more so for being achieved in a maledominated field.

The Nobel laureate has dedicated her life to securing freedom and democracy for her country Burma, using non-violent means to fight against the ruling military Junta who placed her under house arrest for 21 years until her release in November 2010.

Oprah Winfrey

Coco Chanel Instrumental in defining feminine style and dress in the twentieth century, her ideas were revolutionary; in particular she often took traditionally male clothes and redesigned them for women. In 1926, she designed the little black dress to international acclaim.

Devoting her life to the service of the poor and dispossessed, she became a global icon for selfless service to others. Through her Missionaries of Charity organisation she personally cared for thousands of sick and dying people in Calcutta, India. She was awarded the Nobel Peace prize in 1979.

Margaret Thatcher The first female Prime Minister of Great Britain and is remembered as one of the world’s most influential and respected political leaders of all time.

She combined the appeal of a royal princess with her humanitarian charity work. Dogged by personal problems, her popularity remained undimmed inspiring many with her natural sympathy with the poor and mistreated. Her tragic death in 1997 sent the world into an unprecedented collective mourning. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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MARCH 2013 OHLALA!

OHLALA! MARCH 2013