RAGMAG Mistletoe and Wine | December 2014/January 2015 | issue #48

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

MISTLETOE AND WINE

IRAQI CHRISTIANS

IN LEBANON A PRODUCT OF VANISHING HISTORY

MOUZANNAR IN COLLABORATION WITH

ZAHA HADID

CHRISTMAS

RAGMAG’S GUIDE

TO YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFTS

+CONSUMERISM

UNDISCOVERED

TREASURES IN LEBANON’S SOUKS

BEHIND THE SCENES

WITH JAMES JURDI

POCKETLISTING DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER Gina Gabriel El-Fady GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Amal Sabsaby Selected images Shutterstock

STYLIST Jony Matta PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR Lea El-Alam

Hana Alayan Lara Ariss Jonathan Cainer Jonathan Dagher Leanne Elahmad James Fletcher Kaylyn Hlavaty Chris Lambert Colleen McMahon Adreana Rose Lara Ariss Lindsay Wilson Teddy Younes beirut.com

ON OUR COVER: JAMES JURDI PHOTOGRAPHY: OSIE GREENWAY

MARKETING LEAD Daniella Tayar ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR Teddy Younes RESPONSIBLE MANAGER May Ziade PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY CHAMAS www.3achamas.com

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Media Representative RAGMAG Alex Gabriel Building Rue Colomn de Sahel Sahel Alma, Keserwan Tel: 09 916222 / 09 913 777 gina.gabriel@ragmaglive.com lea.elalam@ragmaglive.com

Distributor MMO Messageries du Moyen-Orient de la Presse et du Livre Sal

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Copyright RAGMAG 2014 | All Rights Reserved

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Opinions expressed are based solely on personal opinion and experience, not reflective in any way of RAGMAG, a division of Raycon s.a.l.

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DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES COPYCAT

20

RAGMAG’S ULTIMATE GUIFT GUIDE

46

A VINTAGE STORY

82

READY, STEADY, GO

86

TONY WARD

78

CATWALK OF LIFE SEMINAR

12

CULTURE CLASH JAMES JURDI

30

GUILLAUME

32

EL MOUDA EL LEBNENIYE

34

IRAQI CHRISTIANS IN LEBANON

42

6th GENERATION MOUZANNAR

88

CHRISTMAS CONSUMERISM

92

LEBANON’S SOUKS

REAL LIFE RUNWAY

RAGMAG’S IDEAS FOR THE PERFECT GIFT RAGMAG’S FASHION SHOOT RAGMAG TELLS YOU HOW TO WEAR IT BACKSTAGE BACKSTAGE

FROM THE WEST TO EAST A POP UP OF FUSION FROM AROUND THE WORLD HAYDA LEBNEN YA 3AYNEH

A PRODUCT OF VANISHING HISTORY

COLLABORATE WITH RENOWNED ZAHA HADID PASS ON THE IMPORTANT TOOLS THE UNDISCOVERED TREASURES

MISTLETOE AND WINE

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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MISTLETOE AND WINE 106

MIND, BODY + SOUL WINTER ITCH

112

RUN FOR YOUR LIFE

114

OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW

122

HELP ME WITH MY RAGGED PROBLEMS

96

MIRROR MIRROR AN EVENING AT THE OPERA WITH GUERLAIN

100

CLINIQUE

102

BOURJOIS

103

UNE BY NIGHT

104

DIOR

126

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY JUNKYARD

HOW TO GET RID OF IT

ADVICE ON RUNNING IN THE COLD BOOST YOURSELF UP FROM WITHIN ADVICE

A NEW NOVEL ROMANCE SMART SERUM SILK EDITION

NIGHT BLUES COLLECTION PRESTIGE NUIT

A JOURNEY BY WAY FOOD AND ATMOSPHERE

130

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

132

FESTIVE DINING IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON

138

OUT + ABOUT MADNESS IN BEIRUT

THE EXTRAORDINARY HEALTH BENEFITS OF INDIAN SPICES RECIPES

THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

116

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TAKE ME WITH YOU 3 REMOTE EUROPEAN ARCTIC DESTINATION TRAVEL

MISTLETOE AND WINE

Beirut Souks DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

+961 1 983443 | www.nadag.com

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FOR OUR DECEMBER|JANUARY ISSUE WE CONTINUED TO TALK TO YOU VIA OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS- PINTEREST, TWITTER, FACEBOOK + INSTAGRAM. WE THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR COMMENTS AND PARTICIPATION AND WE HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO INTERACT WITH US ONLINE

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#AWESOMETAKESPRACTICE CONGRATULATIONS TO AZAR CHIDIAC WHO TOOK PART IN VIRGIN MEGASTORE #AWESOMETAKESPRACTICE COMPETITION AND WON IT HANDS DOWN.

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

The November issue of RAGMAG is all about being in the Zone with Maya Nassar. Following our conversation with Maya, we feel that it is never too late to get yourself back. I say ‘yourself ’ rather that ‘physique’, cause there is no definition to what makes you the perfect person - as long as you understand that it is never too late. Thank you Maya for your insights and good luck in all future ventures.

We would also like to thank photographer Carine Badr, for our month of November shoot. She has managed to keep us in the Zone this month with her out of the box ideas and amazing work.

Check out our RAGMAG’s ultimate gift guide, if it made it into our list the chances are that it’s a definite must have, and wanted. We’ve done the hard work to search for that perfect gift, all you have to do now is go and get it!

We aim to bring you the best of ourselves on a monthly basis, and we would love to hear from you. Please write to us with your thoughts. We look forward to hearing from you for your inputs. Keep writing to publisher@ragmaglive.com and talk to me on twitter@GinaGabriel1.

Gina Gabriel El-Fady | Publisher

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CULTURE CLASH

JAMES JURDI FROM THE WEST TO EAST JURDI GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY PHOTOGRAPHY OSIE GREENWAY

Talking on the phone and sitting casually on the patio furniture in his family’s spacious and extravagant apartment overlooking St. George’s Bay, Lebanese-American actor and screenwriter, James Jurdi immediately gets off the phone to greet the Rag Mag crew and myself. His firm hand shake, and eye contact immediately hints that he is very American while his warm welcome and hospitality suggest he is very much in touch with his Lebanese roots.

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JAMES JURDI | FROM THE WEST TO EAST, JURDI GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS

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CULTURE CLASH Born, raised and educated in city of angels, James’s had best of both worlds; living in California and frequently visiting the land of Cedars, his home away from home. Like all Lebanese who live abroad, going back and forth is normal so when there is traditional large Lebanese wedding or an extended family gathering, James’s is sure to be there. His most recent visits to Lebanon and the UAE are to promote his newest film, “Pocket Listing”. But before we get to the details about highly anticipated movie, James describes why cinema is his passion and how he got to where he is at today.

“I can always come home to Lebanon with an environment that has the Lebanese touch. I always try to keep in touch with family and friends because I have a lot of people I care about here. It has been really nice to come back here on both a personal and professional level this round of time,” says James.

James and I sit down inside his family’s Lebanese style salon which is decorated ornately and exquisitely with gold rimmed furniture and crystal chandeliers. The salon has a panoramic view of the Beirut buildings, city markers and the Mediterranean Sea. Coming from Ohio, I still proudly carry the mid west accent which is something James immediately notice. ( should I take it out) After making short conversations about where each of us was from in America, we got down to business to talk about how this 28-year-old continues to work his way up in the business while staying true to his passion and character-- in an industry that will chew and spit you out as quickly as it put you in.

IT HAS BEEN REALLY NICE TO COME BACK HERE ON BOTH A PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LEVEL THIS ROUND OF TIME In any artistic and creative career path, interest in a particular medium thrives at a young age. His love affair with cinema dates back to watching children’s classic since he was a kid; and as he got older, he grew up watching the classics such as “The Godfather” and “Dumb and Dumber”.

From there, his interest turned into an infatuation with all things related to cinema, screen writing, Hollywood and acting.

“I credit my parents with taking me to see movie and educating me about cinema at a very young age,” says James.

He studied film production, screen writing and theatre at a variety of different places and institutes like UCLA. While at film school, James starred in some of America’s favorite soap operas: The Bold and the Beautiful and General Hospital. He notes it was in these roles that he built his resume and granted a path into the industry. Like working your way up the corporate ladder, James met more industry heads along the way from Universal and CBS. He starred in some small independent films while constantly working on his screen plays and crafting his persona on the screen.

Some of his earliest memories in front of the camera were when he collaborated with his classmates in film production classes to write and produce five to ten minute films, He says “everyone had a story to tell and the equipment was there, so why not try our hand at producing a short film and be in one another’s movies?”

While reminiscing about his earliest gigs, he laughs and adds, “You make mistakes and look back at them in retrospect and you laugh at yourself.

You say ‘oh my god look at my hair, look at the way I did that, but thank god for those experiences because when you’re dealing with a higher level cast, you know what not to do so you don’t make a fool out yourself.”

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JAMES JURDI | FROM THE WEST TO EAST, JURDI GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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CULTURE CLASH

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JAMES JURDI | FROM THE WEST TO EAST, JURDI GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS

Hollywood is a difficult industry and one not suited for the light hearted.

In an career where there is a varying level of creativity needed, passion and the desire to compete among the best are two of the ingredients needed to succeed in a business where there will always been more rejections than acceptances. From thinking of the characters in a film to finding the right audience, Jurdi remains fascinated by the whole process, from start to finish.

During the interview, he took the time to thank his parents for the continual support and encouragement they gave him over the years. He emphasizes that “they are very motivational and allowed me to pursue a creative path,” His father (what is his father’s name?) has always been a patron of the arts and was someone who had conversations to me about movies.” His father’s support of the arts is evident after onelook around his family’s home and you can compare it to a small private museum.

Murals of Santorini and other picturesque places paint each wall, family photos line polished book shelves and the hand crafted wooden ouds played by James’s father are scattered throughout the room.

His enthusiasm and drive for screenwriting and acting has credited him with success. According to James and this is something many can agree on, cinema never goes out of style. Audiences in all corners of the world are always looking to see the next series of a particular movie or to see the next great film of their time. James tells me a saying about how entertainment is one thing that will always remain a meeting ground for everyone despite the other conflicts, political jargon and policies that are currently going on.

He explains “If you put people into a dark room there is always going to be a dispute about everything under the sun: social, political, economic, religious issues, fashion—you name it. But when you turn off the lights and put on a projector and you get something going on the silver screen, everyone will be quiet and simultaneously be transported into a fantasy world.”

A film packed with adultery, power play, mistaken identity, fantasy and money, this brings me to talk about Jurdi’s newest film, “Pocket Listing”.

The film, which he wrote and stars in, features a full cast of talent: Burt Reynolds, Jessica Clark, Rob Lowe and Logan Fahey. Earlier in the fall, around Halloween, James also debuted a sci-thriller called “Reaper”.

His inspiration for “Pocket Listing” came from real life experience in one of the real estate capitals in America: California -- where the houses sit on top of hills and beach houses can go for millions. For him, real estate was a good background and basis for crime, corruption, comedy and nefarious characters who are trying to survive a capitalistic world where every man is in it for himself.

“I thought it was an untapped background in film because you have seen a lot of films about Wall Street, the financial market and bankers, but not as many films about property sales and the juxtapose of deals in the making,” says Jurdi.

Typically, movies that involve real estate and numbers are a bit heavy and almost play like a documentary. It is almost like not leaving the house and watching NASDAQ all day long.

With a smile and a laugh, he mentions how “brokers might have an issue with it [the film] because it is an embellished version of their lifestyle.”

HIS FATHER’S SUPPORT OF THE ARTS IS EVIDENT AFTER ONE LOOK AROUND HIS FAMILY’S HOME, WHICH CAN BE COMPARED TO A SMALL PRIVATE MUSEUM

In a market and career that are already seen as luxurious from the surface, the exaggerated story line and the qualities of each character drew in well-known names from the industry to star in “Pocket Listing.” As someone who grew up watching old time classics like Michael Douglas, Jack Nicholsan and Burt Reynolds, the opportunity to work side by side one of them, was one that Jurdi describes as a blessing.

“Everybody was so kind and easy going. They [cast] came together because they wanted to bring the characters to life. From the director to the producer to the cast, we wanted to give everyone the utmost freedom to do whatever they wanted with the characters,” explains Jurdi.

For someone like Jurdi who is a jack of trades, screen writing and acting in film that you wrote in is a creative juggling act – which for him is double rewarding because writing about each character becomes a psychological and detail oriented process that engulfs your imagination.

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CULTURE CLASH

Jurdi says writing about the biographies of characters forms an emotional attachment with each one.

“So in playing one of the characters you have written, you have such a deep seed psychology of them that you know things about them that the director doesn’t even know anything about,” Jurdi says.

He describes times when a director would ask him about his vision of a particular character’s past or qualities, and even though he has an analytical background of the character, he stresses that he remains open to ideas and an actor’s or actress’s take on a particular role. An example of this is when Jurdi casted brunette bombshell, Jessica Clark from True Blood as Lana Hunter, the wife of a mysterious power player and owner of the Malibu house played by Rob Lowe.

“She killed it. She defied my expectations of what the role could be. She added a level of aristocratic elegance, which is very dangerous. I was going for a Sharon Stone in “Basics Instincts”, but when she [Jessica Clark] came along; I realized this is moment you just have to leave this sort of thing up to fate.”

As someone who writes the script and is so deeply involved with each character, Jurdi has a step ahead when preparing for the roles such as Jack Woodman in “Pocket Listing.” A good relationship with the director is essential because he or she will be the one directing and staging you.

Jurdi explains that you want to know how your director wants you to carry out the character throughout the entire film. For example, Jurdi says that during opening and closing of the film, he is talking at the camera.

By communicating the way the director intended, it created another level of connection with the audience. In the film, the audience will see Jack Woodman guide you through his world much in the same way the character guides his clients through houses and real estate opportunities.

When Jurdi isn’t religiously writing and planning his next film, he is staying active through sports and traveling.

“I’m a pretty low key guy. I’m an avid traveler. I thinking traveling really opened up my eyes to different stories because as you travel and meet different people, you realize that everyone has a story and a history to tell,” reveals Jurdi. “Often, I based the characters on people I have met.

Sometimes it is a combination of several individuals. I always find it a fascinating thing.”

I’M A PRETTY LOW KEY GUY An actor like Jurdi who is continually moving, both physically as an actor and metaphorically as a character, his success hasn’t been a walk along the Pacific coast. His hard work and diligence helps mold him into a better actor with each role and one that still has a humble side to him—which is rare in a industry where red carpets and the next award becomes the only goal in sight.

“I hate to sound like a motivational speaker, but you got to employ the three P’s: Positive, Proactive, and Persistence because it is a tough business and you will get 100 no’s before you ever get a yes,” Jurdi states with a serious demeanor. “Even when you get the yes, you’re going to be struggling to overcome the next challenge. Prevail and push until; the end. Every fail can lead to a success.”

It’s this attitude and downright honesty that makes James Jurdi someone to keep your eye on in the industry. In the meantime, one thing to do is certain, keep your eye on his upcoming film, premiering on December 4th, 2014: “Pocket Listing”.

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

BEHIND

JAMES JURDI | FROM THE WEST TO EAST, JURDI GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS

THE SCENES POCKET LISTING

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

RAGMAG’S ULTIMATE

GUIFT GUIDE There’s no need to panic when RAGMAG’s here to help you brainstorm ideas for that perfect gift. We’ve done the hard work, now all you need to do is make the choice for that special something that makes your loved one feel unique.

OBEGI HOME

georg jensen wine + bar line

THEORY

waffle-knit cashmere pillow and eye mask set

ZARA HOME ZARA HOME

saltcellar

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ZARA HOME ZARA HOME

butter knife

MISTLETOE AND WINE

RAGMAG’S ULTIMATE GUIFT GUIDE

HOME ZARA HOME box

ZARA HOME

christmas decoration

ZARA HOME

door knobs

ZARA HOME

horse trivet

JONATHAN ADLER

ZARA HOME

mr. & mrs. muse napkin rings

pillow

JONATHAN ADLER

animalia trinket boxes

ZARA HOME apron

ZARA HOME coasters

HARRY BARKER

“good dog” christmas tin

OBEGI HOME

kosta boda make up line

JONATHAN ADLER

malachite vase

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

CANDLES

HALCYON DAYS ENAMELS scented candles

FORNASETTI

flora wood and ceramic incense box

BELLA FREUD

signature incense, wood and oud scented candle

FORNASETTI

l’ape thyme, cedarwood and lavender scented candle

REN SKINCARE

moroccan rose otto bath oil

REN SKINCARE

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATE

moroccan rose otto firming crème riche

inner strength bath & shower oil

ZARA HOME

christmas edition aromatic candle

ZARA HOME

forest fruit candle decoration

ZARA HOME

white jasmine home fragrance

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

RAGMAG’S ULTIMATE GUIFT GUIDE

PERFUMES + BEAUTY PRODUCTS

ARTIS BRUSH

elite mirror 5 brush set

CAROLINA HERRERA sublime coffret

GOLD COUTURE

BEAUTYBLENDER

viva la juicy perfume

beautyblender micro mini duo

BIOEFFECT

JIMMY CHOO

gift set

eau de toilette for him

CHARLOTTE TILBURY

face + body sculpt and highlight set

MONT BLANC

GUERLAIN

santal royal perfume

emblem eau de tolette

GUERLAIN

la petite robe noir perfume

CZECH & SPEAKE NUMBER 88 shaving set and soap

CALVIN KLEIN

reveal perfume for him

NET-A-PORTER GIFT BOXES the travel box

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

MEN’S SHOES + BAGS PAUL SMITH SHOES & ACCESSORIES BERSHKA

washed-leather and suede tote bag

backback

PAUL SMITH SHOES & ACCESSORIES jim rug tapestry sneakers

BERSHKA

leather shoes

BURBERRY PRORSUM trimmed wool bag

LANVIN

cracked leather slipon sneakers

MASTER-PIECE

leather and canvas backpack

THOM BROWNE BOOTS

PAUL SMITH SHOES & ACCESSORIES

rubber-soled polished-leather and suede derby shoes

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BURBERRY SHOES & ACCESSORIES cross-grain leather and nylon-canvas briefcase

LANVIN

uede and patent-leather sneakers

MISTLETOE AND WINE

RAGMAG’S ULTIMATE GUIFT GUIDE

WOMEN’S SHOES + BAGS

MICHAEL KORS holdall bag

STELLA MCCARTNEY

superhero snakeeffect faux leather shoulder bag

ZARA

suede highheel booties

JIMMY CHOO

high heel boot

BURBERRY PRORSUM the bloomsbury bag

FINDS + SARAH’S BAG

fast and the fabulous clutch

ZARA

perforated booties

STRADIVARIUS boots

STRADIVARIUS boots

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

FENDI

buggies appliquéd texturedleather tote

JIMMY CHOO

attila embossed patentleather point-toe flats

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

PAMELA LOVE

JEWELERY

mini tribal spike gold-plated topaz necklace

MICHAEL KORS

ASHLEY PITTMAN

bracelet

BERSHKA

niyoka snake necklace

necklace

BROOKE GREGSON

18-karat gold tourmaline stud earrings

DELFINA DELETTREZ pearl and enamel earring

IAM BY ILEANA MAKRI

enameled gold-plated safety pin cuff

STRADIVARIUS necklace

BOUCHERON ring

MICHAEL KORS

SHOUROUK

bracelet

parrot gold-plated swarovski crystal clip earrings

MICHAEL KORS

UTERQUE

watch

bracelet

BOUCHERON

SELVATORE FERRAGAMO

herisson studs

UNIFORM WARES

watches

302 series chronograph stainless steel wristwatch

FOUNDWELL VINTAGE DEAKIN & FRANCIS racing car cufflinks

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SHINOLA

the runwell chronograph watch

AQUATIMER watch

BURBERRY watch

MICHAEL KORS

18-karat gold reverse intaglio cufflinks

watch

MISTLETOE AND WINE

RAGMAG’S ULTIMATE GUIFT GUIDE

ELECTRONICS PANASONIC shaver

BEATS BY DR. DRE

golden beats on-ear headphones

PANASONIC epilator

BRAUN GILLETTE VENUS naked skin home laser machine

MARC BY MARC JACOBS + Urbanears Humlan oil slick headphones

BOWERS & WILKINS a5 airplay music system

B&O PLAY

a9 airplay wireless speaker

GHD

eclipse styler

JAWBONE

up24 bluetooth activity tracking band

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

SARAH CHAPMAN

skinesis bodylift

ZENSATION

3-in-1 skin rejuvenating device

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

STRADIVARIUS

HER

skirt

STRADIVARIUS

BERSHKA

jacket

dress

MARKUS LUPFER lara sequined merino wool sweater

STRADIVARIUS coat

PROMOD pull

STRADIVARIUS belt

STRADIVARIUS jeans

UTERQUE hat

HIM BERSHKA

sweatshirt

LORO PIANA

beaver-lined baby cashmere cardigan

JOHN SMEDLEY

helden cashmere and silk-blend scarf

GIVENCHY

cuban-fit skullprint cottonfleece sweatshirt

CANALI

brushed cotton-blend trousers

BURBERRY

heritage trench coat

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GUCCI

leather travel trolley

CANALI

brushed cottonblend trousers

MISTLETOE AND WINE

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CULTURE CLASH

GUILLAUME

A POP UP OF FUSION FROM AROUND THE WORLD

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

GUILLAUME | A POP UP OF FUSION FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Located in a downtown building on the fourth floor is the location of French interior designer, Guillaume Excoffier and video producer, Nancy Gabriel’s second pop up store “Guillaume”. It is a contrast to last year’s location at The Gathering Place in trendy Gemmayze. The current location is a modern, open space with light coming from all directions and meticulously styled living spaces that look like they could come out of a “Architectural Digest” or any other glossy, interior design feature spread.

At the heart of this space is the collaborative and creative work of both Gabriel and Exoffier. Mixing old and new, expensive and affordable is their successful approach to interior design. “Guillaume” started as a store in the trendy district of < Saint-Germain> where people like to browse and shop in the streets.

MIXING OLD AND NEW, EXPENSIVE AND AFFORDABLE IS THEIR SUCCESSFUL APPROACH TO INTERIOR DESIGN “It is much more exciting to have pop up stores. In Gemmayze, everyone responded to it with enthusiasm because there are not many pop up stores here, so we decided to do a second edition with all new pieces and design spaces,” says Excoffier.

Excoffier describes his style as eclectic, which is evident in every room he designs. At the pop up store, there are pieces from the 50’s and 60’s to modern metal and stainless steel furniture. Each space is mixed with flea market finds and gallery like pieces—giving a distinctive and edgy appearance to each space.

“I like to give modern, often cold looking spaces a homey and lively feeling to them. We want to show people that just by adding little touches to a room can make a difference in the overall mood of the space,” says Excoffier.

When creating a space, Excoffier says he usually bases his design strategy on one piece. It usually is big piece such as a couch or coffee table.

He says they buy everything at one time and once they are in a given space, and then begin to move things around to see what works and what doesn’t. After arranging everything, then it comes time to add in the statements objects to balance out the room.

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At the forefront of Guillaume’s spirit is the diversity and eclecticism he brings to each space. In all one room, one will find a coffee table from the 60’s that was found in an American flea market along the East Coast placed next to pieces crafted by well-known designers worldwide. In each room, Gabriel and Excoffier take clients on their journey of finding pieces for a given space. A ceramic piece takes you to the U.S., a coffee table takes you to Paris and a statement lamp brings you to Italian coast.

In this year’s collection, featured designers include, but are not limited to Gabriella Crespi from Italy, Maria Pergay from France, Paul Evans from the USA and exclusive design objects from Peter Zimermann from Germany.

By having a range of piece from many countries, Gabriel and Excoffier are giving customers a fusion of many cultures and styles. Not only are customers traveling to another era or time when waking into their store, but traveling around the globe. When asked where the next store will be, Excoffier answers “Monte Carlo in September 2015 because we have clients there and it is a new location.”

The pop up store will up until December 20th.

Location: 126 Foch Street, 4th Floor, Beirut Central District, Facing Reem Acra Boutique.

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HAYDA LEBNEN S

EL MOUDA EL LEBNENEYE Well thank God the legendary Oscar De La Renta set the record straight about those who will go to any length to be fashionable, even as far as committing awful fashion crimes.

Ironic I know, bas ma hayda el sara7a?

It seems with every era, there’s the good, the bad and the ugly. The wins and the losses. Unfortunately, these are the pleasures and perils of fashion.

Shou el mouda el lebneneye? I’m talking about our inability to accept fashion boundaries, and of course our desire to make outfits (and everything) look sexy.

These days with the glitz and glamour of becoming ‘Instagram’ famous at stake, our growing obsessiveness to post everything we are wearing for the world to see on our multi-social media sites. What may appear as forming a new unique style by breaking the rules of fashion, is actually creating over-done outfits, bewaj3o el 3youn.

We love fashion in Lebanon, and let’s face it some of the world’s most renowned designers akid men3ena! Wallaw?! We take pride in the way we look and I would say we live in a rather fashionable place.

Lebanon is made up of a large fashion spectrum. Mainly due to our fashion influences that are pulled from all parts of the world. But just like influences, not all turn out to be good for you. Don’t get me wrong it’s great to experiment with fashion, bas el lebneneyeh like to mix these influences ‘3al mouda el lebnene’.

If the dress is not at least a size too small bikoun mesh lebessa. While it’s important that your outfits are well fitted in the right places, it’s also important to take into account our diverse body shapes. We need to get out of our ‘iza byelba2 la Haifa, akid byelba2le’. By no means am I suggesting that people should not be confident, but remember there is a forever thinning line between confidence and vulgarity.

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HAYDA LEBNEN | EL MOUDA EL LEBNENIYE

While it’s great that we take pride in the way we look, sometimes being fabulous is all about keeping it simple and together. Believe it or not, you have the ability to be fabulous without wearing head-totoe LV, DG, Chanel, GUCCI and the likes of them. We in Lebanon are obsessed with everything designer, and while it’s nice to indulge in a Louis Vuitton bag, a Burberry coat and Prada sunglasses, wearing outfits by prominent designer houses does not determine how stylish you are. Perhaps we dress up to portray something that may be completely contradicting to our personalities, and so the faults are obvious.

WHAT MAY APPEAR AS FORMING A NEW UNIQUE STYLE BY BREAKING THE RULES OF FASHION, IS ACTUALLY CREATING OVER-DONE OUTFITS, BEWAJ3O EL 3YOUN But whether we’re wearing designer or not, we are always overdressed. It’s probably because our face is always made up, like we are on a 24/7 ready to go club scene. Whether it’s a kids birthday party, lunch, a garden wedding, a cocktail event or your first cousin’s wedding, women are always going to come with their best face, also known as their only face. What’s worse is pairing the famous make-up trend with casual clothes especially sport shoes or sneakers.

IT’S PROBABLY BECAUSE OUR FACE IS ALWAYS MADE UP, LIKE WE ARE ON A 24/7 READY TO GO CLUB SCENE While we’re on the subject, yes comfort is important and no, sport shoes cannot be worn with everything. I get the whole punk-rocker chic style where a skater dress can be worn with Converse Chucks.

However, to wear this with Nike Airmax’s or shoes made to train in at the gym, is just torture to look at. And it doesn’t mean that shoes, which are half-breed, (sneakers with heels) can be worn with any outfit just because they are embedded with a small heel.

Further more, what is up with people wearing tights as pants?

They are not pants, they are not designed to replace pants and they should never be worn as pants, especially with a shorter top which exposes all the things pants are supposed to cover. Don’t be fooled by the tights that come in different colours and prints, just because they have the ability to attract attention to those parts that are supposed to be kept hidden from the eye, it’s best to steer clear of them for dressier events at all costs.

Experimenting with fashion can be fun and it gives you the chance to stumble upon new styles and looks that compliment you and thus make you more confident. However, it’s important to realize the boundaries of fashion and to keep things simple and fabulous.

It’s unfortunate, but we will always have those people who feel the need to abuse fashion in order to stand out ‘am yekounou original’ we must not forget that kel shi zeyid na2is. Bas ma Hayda Lebnen ya 3ayneh?

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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IRAQI CHRISTIANS

IN LEBANON A PRODUCT OF VANISHING HISTORY

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY

During the summer of 2014, between the months of June through August, Lebanon became another host country to a new surge of Iraqi Christians who fled their homes in Iraq’s northern city of Mosul and Qaraqosh to escape the wrath of Islamic State—which now has taken over large territories in Syria and Iraq while killing or exiling anyone who doesn’t fit their mold of religious and political extremism.

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IRAQI CHRISTIANS IN LEBANON | A PRODUCT OF VANISHING HISTORY

THEIR STORIES Before fleeing their beloved home in Qaraqosh, the Yousif family was preparing for their daughter, Hiba’s marriage to her long time fiancé, Riam Anitto. The meticulously embroidered off white lace and sequin wedding gown was finished. Jewelry and wedding bands were bought and the celebration was thoroughly planned. This was on August 6, a day before the wedding and a time marked as their last good memory of their life in Iraq. Wedding nuptials and a life as a happy couple in their native village went from reality to a distant, forgettable dream.

The Yousif family is among the thousands of Iraqi Christians and other religious minorities who left their once secure and safe homes at a short notice to find refuge in a foreign land with little belongings and hope.

Along with other families, the Yousif’s carry the additional burden of having one or more family members with a disability—making the escape that much more arduous. Since fleeing to Lebanon, Iraqi refugees are already struggling to provide the basic needs for their families. Many refugees are unable to pay for additional costs such as education and healthcare. While outside donors such as churches, NGO’s and individuals are providing the basic humanitarian assistance, healthcare requires money that most of the Iraqis do not have due to low working wages, little savings and obsolete jobs.

Sitting in a cramped, two-bedroom apartment scattered with only the bare necessities, Radd Yousif and his wife Yasmeen Shaaya describe their plight from their village of Qaraqosh to Erbil and then finally to Lebanon. The journey is told in detail as their children occasionally interject with a few words about their own insights of the current situation.

“It was back on June 10 that our lives changed forever. One night we heard shelling near our balcony. At the time, the Peshmerga was protecting the area. My daughter, Hiba’s fiancé called us and said ‘you have to leave the area tonight, there is news that Daesh is advancing. It may be our only time to get out’ so we left at 5 a.m. to Erbil,” says Yasmeen of that frightening night.

IT MAY BE OUR ONLY TIME TO GET OUT’ SO WE LEFT AT 5 A.M. TO ERBIL

The journey to Erbil was strenuous and terrifying. A trip that takes 45 minutes under normal conditions took the family five hours. With four children having muscular dystrophy, it was up to the other three siblings to help their parents carry them down a flight of stairs to a car meant to only seat four people. The children were pressed up against one another. When they got to Erbil, the family stayed under a tin roof on top of a building for three days, with minimal food and water.

“It was three full days of misery. Complete distress. Our kids were hysterical and the four with Muscular Dystrophy started to become very ill.

We decided to go back to our home in Qaraqosh because a priest said the town wasn’t occupied by Daech yet,” says Yasmeen.

However, their stay at home didn’t last long. The church told the Yousif’s and others to stay because the Peshmerga was protecting the village, but after a woman and two girls died in their neighborhood from shelling, they decided to leave for good. They packed up their passports, gold and their memories and history that were created over the years—one generation after another.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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ASSISTANCE Once Iraqi refugees arrive in Lebanon, they find themselves living among over 450,000 Palestinians, over one million Syrian refugees and the community of Iraqi Christians who came to Lebanon during the U.S. ledinvasion. The Syrian Crisis has left Iraqi refugees with little assistance because NGO’s, churches and the local community used prior funding for the Syrian refugees. For Iraqi refugees who need immediate and life threatening medical care in Lebanon, the available resources are fewer.

At 68-years-old, Nahom Martani Ayoob experienced what happens when little medical coverage is available. In early November, he went to the hospital because he was having heart attack like symptoms and needed emergency medical attention. He called Jihane Harith alZahawi, who is a British- Iraqi businesswoman providing assistance to a number of local families. He was taken to several hospitals until the Lebanese Canadian hospital admitted him with the insurance he had from UNHCR.

THE SYRIAN CRISIS HAS LEFT IRAQI REFUGEES WITH LITTLE ASSISTANCE BECAUSE NGO’S, CHURCHES AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY USED PRIOR FUNDING FOR THE SYRIAN REFUGEES “The doctor kept me under care for only a day because my UNHCR insurance only covered 80 percent of my medical bills. The other 20 percent was kindly covered by Jihane and her friend. When it was time to go, the doctor didn’t feel comfortable discharging me because I needed a Cardiac Catheterization, but it wasn’t covered so now I’m slowly recovering on my own at home,” says Ayoob.

Caritas Migrant Center in Lebanon (CLMC) is one of the organizations who are focusing their efforts in helping Iraqi Refugees. In their recent study, “Left behind a Needs Assessment of Iraqi Refugees Present in Lebanon,” it is reported that 57 percent of the 769 families interviewed reported that healthcare was one of their main concerns. Forty five percent saw education as another concern.

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IRAQI CHRISTIANS IN LEBANON | A PRODUCT OF VANISHING HISTORY

Isabelle Saade Feghali, coordinator for Iraqi Refugee Assistance says “it is important to mention that available funds for Iraqi refugees are very low. Iraqis are currently forgotten. They live in very bad conditions and are searching for stability elsewhere. The international community should really stand up and do something to save what is remaining here [Lebanon] and there [Iraq].”

Churches located outside Beirut, belonging to the Chaldean, Assyrians and Syriac Christians are actively providing whatever aid they can to Iraqi’s scattered around Beirut’s suburbs. St. George Cathedral of the Assyrian Church in neighborhood of Saad al- Boushrieh is one of several churches who are serving desperate Iraqi Christian families in need since mid- July.

In a solemn tone, Father George Youkhana describes the situation as bleak and one that will not be resolved any time in the near future. He also blames the West for creating a chaotic and unstable environment for groups like Daech to flourish, grow and expand throughout the region.

“Iraqi Christians are fleeing from the homes and with them they are taking history that has been in Iraq for thousands of years. Most of them can’t go back home so they come to Lebanon where there is a Christian population here and they can understand the language,” says Father Youkhana.

Before fleeing his hometown of Mosul, Edwar Habeeb, 39, was a successful pediatrician who completed five years of research on cerebral palsy in his research lab. He could afford to send his five children to school and live a comfortable, respectful life, but now he says his children do not go to school and his line of work isn’t respected as much here.

“I don’t have any work here. I’m helping other Iraqis receive medical care. Before fleeing Mosul, ISIS destroyed my research papers and documents. A doctor friend of mine in Mosul told me to pay the ‘Jisrah’ which is a tax to stay protected if I convert to Islam, I said ‘no way!’ I’m not French, American or any other foreign nationality. I’m Iraqi and why should I leave my home country? Why? If I stayed, my children will be taught how to kill and hate people and not respect anyone,” Habeeb says angrily and frustrated.

Educated Iraqis who can’t find work like Edwar Habeeb are not alone.

That is why many are looking for a way to emigrate.

IRAQI CHRISTIANS ARE FLEEING FROM THE HOMES AND WITH THEM THEY ARE TAKING HISTORY THAT HAS BEEN IN IRAQ FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS

LEGAL STATUS Since 2011, Lebanon’s refugee population continues to increase with new arrivals from Iraq. In an effort to control the number of refugees entering the country, the Lebanese government has become stricter in its open border policy. According to Mona Monzer, Communications Officer for the UNHCR, once Iraqis register with the UNHCR, they have access to assistance provided by UNHCR’s partners for medical care and other needs, but not everyone benefits from these programs because of a variety of factors such as lack of available funds by the organization, their vulnerability status and their medical condition.

According to Caritas, the Syrian crisis directed most of the foreign aid for health care to the Syrian refugees, hence leaving less available aid for Iraqis a new set of challenges ahead to provide care. This influx is also putting a strain on hospitals and health centers to help vulnerable Iraqi refugees.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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In the meantime, the family is waiting for their appointment with the UNHCR in May 2015. They will see if their papers are accepted to go to another country “We told them [UNHCR] that we are SOS. I have four children who have a degenerative disease and they don’t feel comfortable walking outside the home because there is stigma for handicap people,” says Yasmeena, who is fighting back the tears while describing their current situation and what it holds for everyone.

When asked where they would like to go, they answer “the West”. Her husband, Raad interjects to say “We do blame the west for how Iraq has turned out, but we blame the people of Iraq more. Our Muslim neighbors, whom we lived next to in peace for years, took our things and joined the fight with Daech. Yes, the west helped with the chaos, but the people of Iraq fueled the troubles,” explains Raad.

The Yousif family is looking to emmigrate to another country and to start their lives over. For now, they are sitting and watching their beloved and native Iraq get destroyed and transformed into a country unrecognizable to eyes that have seen many wars and dictators pillage its history, people and land.

“We cry every day; there is no hope and my belongings are gone. Finished,” says Hiba. What shall we do? Go back to what country? No country anymore. We can’t see ourselves going back.”

WE CRY EVERY DAY; THERE IS NO HOPE AND MY BELONGINGS ARE GONE

Feghali says refugees usually only have 75 percent of their medical care covered, the remaining 25 percent is left as a burden for the refugee to pay which is often impossible especially when they are struggling to cover other costs such as food and housing.

According to UNHCR reports, as of October 2014, there are a total of 9,408 Iraqi’s registered and 1,283 who are awaiting registration. Out of both, registered and those in the process of getting registered, 60 percent are women, children and the elderly. It’s these groups who are most at risk of unemployment, lack of education and proper medical care.

For the Yousif’s four children with muscular dystrophy, their mobility is limited to the walls of their two bedroom apartment. Without wheelchairs and transportation, the family is unable to get a detailed diagnosis which leaves them without the proper care. Individuals like Jihane Harith alZahawi are picking up the slack and helping out where possible.

“I found a neuro muscular department at American University Hospital.

Here they test individuals who have the disease. For 25,000 LL each, the children will be assessed for what type of Muscular Dystrophy they have and also will be able to keep a file at the hospital for future treatment and records,” says Al-Zahawi.

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IRAQI CHRISTIANS IN LEBANON | A PRODUCT OF VANISHING HISTORY

YOUSSEF FAMILY From Iraq to Lebanon, the Yousiff’s journey was more difficult than others because four of the seven children have muscular dystrophy. They don’t like to leave the house because of the stigma people with a handicap are given. While at home, the four children spend their time making handcrafted clothes, rosaries and accessories.

HABEEB FAMILY

ATALLAH FAMILY

Since they were born, Wafaa and Manal were born deaf without any sign language skills. They too fled Qaraqosh with their mother and now find themselves struggling to receive any medical and financial aid. The youngest daughter, Manal was born with a rare genital condition. She was identified as a female at birth, but as she grew older, a male genital part became more visible and she never got her menstrual cycle. According to her mother, she has never been to a doctor since birth because of the stigma in Iraq and her mother is shy to file her condition so she can get the proper diagnosis and treatment.

Khalid and Hayfa Atallah’s eldest daughter died in 2008 from Lupis. The second eldest daughter, Lara has Lupis. She requires treatment every 20 days that costs $200. They live in a two bedroom apartment near Borj Hammoud with a rent that is $800 a month. With only the father, Khalid working at an oxygen factory and another family moving in with them, paying for rent and Lara’s treatment is a reoccurring struggle that means life or death for this young girl.

MARTANI FAMILY Nahom Martani Ayoob and his wife Hanna are Caldean Christians living in a one room place in Sadd el-Bouchriyeh. Originally from Mosul, they find themselves going through the bureaucracy of receiving aid for medical care. Nahom needs a cardiac catheterization, but he doesn’t have the funds to cover it. Most aid covers 75% of the costs, but for someone unable to work, paying the remainder 25% is a far reach.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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NEW + NOW

ALMAZA AND KUNHADI PARTNER TO PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE DRINKING In a country where road accidents continue to increase due to excessive drinking and drugged driving, Almaza, Lebanon’s leading local brewery, partnered with Kunhadi NGO in order to raise awareness about responsible drinking.

This collaboration with Kunhadi NGO, whose mission is to keep drivers safe on Lebanese roads, comes in line with Almaza’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy to educate and urge the youth and the general public to enjoy a drink moderately and drive responsibly.

In this respect, Almaza and Kunhadi created 20,000 scented car hangers containing tips and messages on the dangers of drinking and driving, and distributed them to more than 60 nightclubs and lounges via valet parking services across the country.

With a passion for quality and an entrenched history in brewing, the Almaza legacy remains loyal to its traditions and customers by making life more enjoyable, yet it strongly encourages responsible consumption of its products and alerts drivers of the consequences of drinking and driving.

AZADEA FOUNDATION PLANTS 6,000 TREES AT ITS 3RD PLANTATION DAY Azadea Foundation, a non-governmental organization (NGO) NGO managed, financed and sponsored exclusively by Azadea partners and employees since 2011, organized its 3rd ‘Plantation Day’, in collaboration with Jouzour Loubnan, as part of its continuous commitment to promote sustainable reforestation, restore and protect Lebanese woodlands, and further raise environmental awareness.

The ‘Plantation Day’, which took place on Saturday the 8th of November in Kfardebian, was a staggering success with initiating the forestation of 6,000 trees planted with the support of over 200 Azadea employees and their families, media, bloggers and fellow activists.The enthusiastic volunteers ventured out to Kfardebian and spent several hours planting the Lebanese Cedar trees, alongside the 1,000 trees that were planted during the 2nd Plantation Day back in November 2013. Azadea Foundation’s 3rd plantation project supports a research and development initiative conducted by Jouzour Loubnan in partnership with the University Of Saint Joseph (USJ) to develop more sustainable reforestation techniques. This initiative is in line with the foundation’s long-term plan to increase its environmental impact and ultimately reduce climate change effects.

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NEW + NOW CÔTE D’OR CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH A HEAP OF LOVE AND A DASH OF TOGETHERNESS It is that time of year again where families travel distances to join their loved ones and celebrate the blissful Christmas season, a time full of love and togetherness where such moments are memorable. This Christmas season, Cadbury Adams Middle East s.a.l., part of Mondelez International, brings Côte D’Or chocolates to create the fondest memories families cherish most. With this year’s Christmas campaign ‘For the Ones We Love,’ Côte D’Or managed to reflect the essence of this season by accentuating the bond and genuine moments families and friends share, for time that is well spent with loved ones is the ultimate gift.Through their new Christmas inspired packaging, Cote D’Or introduced its offerings with new variants to satisfy all tastes. Côte D’Or has long established itself as a leading gifting item in the chocolate industry and remains the secret to heartwarming and magical moments, especially during holidays.

JOHNNIE WALKER LAUNCHES THE NEW KEEP WALKING LEBANON CAMPAIGN WITH: KEEP YOUR FLAME ALIVE Johnnie Walker, the iconic whisky brand, launched its new campaign on Wednesday. Diageo, the maker of Johnnie Walker, unveiled the campaign to a buzzing crowd of more than 300 people, including Lebanese VIPs, notable achievers, and media representatives at the worldrenowned club, BO18. The Johnnie Walker brand has long stood for remarkable achievements and a progressive spirit, but this year, the campaign recognizes the collective and inextinguishable Lebanese spirit that keeps the nation moving forward against all odds.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

Previous Johnnie Walker campaigns featured well-known Lebanese achievers such as Bernard Khoury, Elie Saab and Nadine Labaki, but the new campaign’s theme focuses on force in each and every one of us that keeps us walking and ignites our passion to persevere and continue achieving in Lebanon despite all, according to Marwan Badri, the Regional Director of Diageo Middle East and North Africa.

The inspiring “Keep Your Flame Alive” message was introduced in a three-minute motion picture showing a flame burning in the midst of a tumultuous storm, metaphorically resembling to the storm the country is currently facing. The film aims to not only spark a conversation, but also seeks to encourage people to overcome challenges, to persevere and achieve their dreams in Lebanon. Beyond launching a marketing campaign, Johnnie Walker went further by creating a platform for national engagement to inspire the public and foster a spirit of hope despite strife and instability.

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6TH GENERATION

MOUZANNAR DESIGNERS COLLABORATE WITH RENOWNED ZAHA HADID

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY

Since its establishment in the mid-18th century, The House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar has seen changing times of regional and national unrest, wars and economic crisis’s, but what hasn’t changed is the brand’s dedication, elegance and eye for hand crafted signature pieces which contributed to the brand’s unchanging reputation as one of the leading fine jewelers in the Middle East.

While The House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar maintain strong roots and popularity in the Middle East, the house is branching out in its newest collaboration with renowned and celebrated architect Zaha Hadid. Dori Mouzannar and Alia Mouzannar, 6th generation fine jewelry designers were welcomed this November by Hadid --who is a client and fan of the house, to showcase their work at the Zaha Hadid Design Gallery in London-- where talented designers , artists and architects have displayed their work. Dori and Alia collaborated with Zaha to create a one of a kind piece to show at the gallery event.

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As a fan and client of the house, asking Hadid to work together was relatively an easy process. One day Alia was traveling to London and she asked Hadid if she would be interested in working together and according to Alia, “ it didn’t take her [Zaha] long to agree and that is how the collaboration began.”

Blending Dori’s artisanship with bold, rock formation like pieces, Alia’s intricate, modular pieces and Zaha’s architectural background, the “Silene” cuff was born. The cuff consists of 18 carrot white gold set with an intricate web of 1,048 diamonds.

BLENDING DORI’S ARTISANSHIP WITH BOLD, ROCK FORMATION LIKE PIECES, ALIA’S INTRICATE, MODULAR PIECES AND ZAHA’S ARCHITECTURAL BACKGROUND, THE “SILENE” CUFF WAS BORN MISTLETOE AND WINE

MOUZANNAR DESIGNERS COLLABORATE WITH RENOWNED ZAHA HADID

Of the collaboration with Zaha to create a cuff, Dori says it is a piece that brings both worlds of Zaha and the House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar together.

“This is where the collaboration meets. She [Zaha] is a world renowned architect so she created the design, but we have the heritage and craftsmanship in our workshop to make the piece come alive,” says Dori.

The House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar celebrate the history and traditions of Lebanon with each immaculately detailed piece that conveys precision and craftsmanship.

“Our collaboration with the House takes full advantage of Alia’s and Dori’s knowledge to explore the beauty of natural forms and the unique properties of its materials,” says Hadid.

DORI SAYS THE PIECE WAS FINISHED IN SIX DAYS, FROM THE TIME THEY RECEIVED THE DESIGN TO CREATING THE PIECE

Dori says the piece was finished in six days, from the time they received the design to creating the piece. The first cuff went over so well, that the Mouzannars and Hadid are creating 12 more cuffs that will come in different gold and diamonds. As is standard with all their pieces, The House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar design and create every piece on location at their workshop just 50 meters down the street. Everything from A to Z is done here. Dori says there is no middle man which allows him to see the beauty and evolution of the piece from start to finish.

When Zaha wanted to collaborate with a designer, she could have chosen a younger designer who may be creative, but doesn’t necessarily carry the craftsmanship and skills that come with The House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar collaboration.

“To execute a piece like this, it takes craftsmanship and know how to create something like this,” explains Dori. We have been creating pieces for generation after generation. Zaha understood that we understand how to create a piece like this. In architecture, you draw something and it has to fit. In design, you draw something but it has to fit and work on the body.”

WE HAVE BEEN CREATING PIECES FOR GENERATION AFTER GENERATION The Mouzannar legacy and heritage is entrenched in the independent lines of Dori and Alia Mouzannar and the working synergy created by the two under their family’s name. They function as a single unit of designers to bring inspiring creations to those who appreciate the dedication to details and design.

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Dori Mouzannar , known for his meteor collection, is the epitome of artistry and bold pieces.

His designs are inspired by rock formations and space. Dori says he can get inspired by anything. Last year, he was in Boston during the Indian summer. The foliage colors of greens, reds, oranges and yellows became a symbol in each of his meteor pieces. Like a rock fallen from the sky, each stone is designed to look like it was cratered into the piece.

In contrast, on a more intricate level, Alia Mouzannar’s prize winning modular pieces are for women who work and live, but are very much in touch with their femininity. Her designs are organically dressed in gold and Earth tones, while taking on multiple personalities. Alia describes her line as ‘one for the everyday woman who may not have the time to change between meetings and outings.’ She has earrings that can be worn in 13 different ways and a cache ring that can cover any ring you want—creating another dimension to a ring.

Although the house of Mouzannar uses highend materials to create exceptional jewelry, the secret ingredients that remain an integral part of the 6th generation designers are craftsmanship and personal detail to each ring, necklace and bracelet they produce. The Middle East treasures that come out of the Mouzannar house are anything but ordinary. They exemplify luxury, quality and personality, which is something Dori and Alia Mouzannar wouldn’t have it any other way.

WE HAVE BEEN CREATING PIECES FOR GENERATION AFTER GENERATION

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NEW + NOW

SAYFCO BUILDING THE FUTURE TOGETHER NEW SPONSORSHIP OF ATHLETE GRETTA TASLAKIAN ANNOUNCED SAYFCO, one of Lebanon’s leading real estate developers, is not only committed to building the future through development of the landscape, but also through supporting sports. This commitment has led to the company’s recent announcement of its sponsorship of Lebanese athlete Gretta Taslakian for the 2015 season. Commenting on the sponsorship, Mr. Chahe Yerevanian, Sayfco’s chairman, said: “Gretta Taslakian is a great example of a Lebanese citizen who is using sports to raise the profile of her country. Sports are very important for the mind and the body, and we believe in encouraging youth as much as possible to take part in physical activity as a constructive outlet for their energies. We are firm believers in a positive future for Lebanon and look to our youth to join us in building this future. Through sponsorships such as this, we are contributing to taking this vision forward.” In her athletics career Gretta Taslakian has won many gold, silver and bronze medals by participating in international sporting events and is also a national record holder for running in the 100, 200 and 400 meters.

Mr. Chahe Yerevanian continued by saying: “We are proud to support Gretta in her career and hope that she will continue to be an inspiring force to the youth of Lebanon.” SAYFCO’s sponsorship of Gretta Taslakian is yet another milestone in the company’s firm support for sports in Lebanon, which includes sponsorship of the Homenetmen Antelias women’s basketball team.

WHEN CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION MEET

A MERCEDES-BENZ CONCEPT STORE OPENS IN LEBANON T. Gargour & Fils has launched a temporary Mercedes-Benz Concept Store in Lebanon, a new and innovative concept of luxury at the Mercedes-Benz showroom in Dora from November 5 to 15, 2014. The official opening was preceded by an event attended by representatives of the press and the media on November 4, who reveled in the atmosphere of modern luxury. After welcoming the guests, Stephan Haji Touma, Chairman of T. Gargour & Fils, talked about this innovative concept: “The concept store initiative saw the light because Mercedes-Benz seeks to satisfy all their clients, ages, and lifestyles, with a car that suits every aspiration. We also wanted to highlight all the advantages offered by our famous star and devise a new and different experience for the Lebanese people”. And he added “This modern luxury characterizes MercedesBenz lovers, who only accept the very best. They enjoy the freedom of choice and take the time they need to express their personality”. Mercedes-Benz’s legendary innovation and excellence are reflected once again in its launching of the Concept Store in collaboration with leading innovators from fields as various as arts, design, fashion, and culinary, who all based their amazing innovations and designs on the MercedesBenz brand inspiration.

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

A VINTAGE

STORY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLOS AOUN | STYLING BY NAYLA AOUN | MAKEUP

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A VINTAGE STORY

DRESS: JEAN-LOUIS SABAJI

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

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SUNGLASSES: SAGAWAFUJI HAT: HOUSE OF LAFAYETTE SCARF: PINEDA COVALIN

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

HAT: HOUSE OF LAFAYETTE PLEATED JACKET: ISSEY MIYAKE PANTS: ANN DEMEULMEESTER NECKLACE: PAXTON

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A VINTAGE STORY

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

DRESS: JEAN-LOUIS SABAJI

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

A VINTAGE STORY

DRESS: RUNDHOLZ BAG: ALICE EDDE SCARF: PINEDA COVALIN

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

DRESS: NERO INK BAG: ALICE EDDE GLOVES: RUNDHOLZ

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A VINTAGE STORY

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

SHOES: RUNDHOLZ SUNGLASSES: SAGAWAFUJI HAT: HOUSE OF LAFAYETTE SCARF: PINEDA COVALIN

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

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A VINTAGE STORY

JACKET: GIOVANNI CAVAGNA PANTS: TSUMORI CHISATO HAT: ILARIUSS SCARF: PINEDA COVALIN BAG: ALICE EDDE SHOES: MARSELL

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

PLEATED COAT: ISSEY MIYAKE CLUTCH: ALICE EDDE BELT: DEEPA GURNANI

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A VINTAGE STORY

HAT: HOUSE OF LAFAYETTE NECKLACE: PAXTON

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

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A VINTAGE STORY

PANTS: TSUMORI CHISATO BAG: ALICE EDDE CORSET: MARTIN GRANT GLOVES: TER ET BANTINE

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NEW + NOW MASSIMO DUTTI EMBRACES THE CHILLY SEASON WITH A TOPNOTCH STYLING EVENT IN COLLABORATION WITH THE AGENDA BEIRUT Massimo Dutti, the brand that offers a range of styles from urban, casual to timeless sophistication, embraces the chilly season with a styling and consultation session. On Saturday November 15, Massimo Dutti in collaboration with The Agenda Beirut held a private event for its most loyal customers in its Beirut Souks store. During the event, the store was lavishly setup to heighten the luxurious atmosphere.

Guests were greeted with refined catering and delicious canapés. Hadia Sinno, Amine Jreissaty and Mandy Merheb, renowned fashion stylists representing The Agenda Beirut, were available for consultation where styling advice and fashion tips were given to help the guests pick out cuts and colors of this season. The tips were set out to suit the guests’ unique figure and complexion and aim for a style that is personal while adding touches of fashion trends set on international catwalks. This season is definitely all about colours, like beige, taupe soft grey, ochre, indigo or burgundy perfectly mixed with the lasted style prints like the camouflage or the gales check. And, of course, the maximum quality is needed, especially in the fabrics like the, wool flannel, cashmere or leather and fur, that are a total must and become a surprising combination with nylon garments.

MCLAREN AUTOMOTIVE WINS MIDDLE EAST CAR OF THE YEAR ‘BEST SUPERCAR’ AWARD LG Electronics organized an exploration trip for 10 social media influencers around Lebanon which included Lebanese bloggers covering the technology, food and lifestyle sectors. The trip was held on the 27th and 28th of September and included different stops around Lebanon full of fun and adventure.

The aim of the trip was to introduce the bloggers to the newly released Smartphone the LG G3. The hashtag used for the trip was #MeetLGG3, which bloggers used across different social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) to blog their experience throughout the 48-hour trip.

The bloggers were introduced to a number of unique features that the G3 Smartphone offers, from the 5.5-inch Quad HD screen to the 13MP camera equipped with the advanced OIS+ Laser Auto Focus feature which allowed them to take stunning pictures of Lebanon’s most astonishing sceneries and touristic spots.

Commenting on the trip, the Managing Director of LG Electronics Levant, Mr. Tae Hun Ryu said “We, at LG Electronics, believe in the power of social media as a tool to spread the word of mouth and increase awareness, we found in Lebanon the perfect canvas and a unique platform to shed light on the unique features that the G3 has to offer”.

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marc by marc jacobs aw 2014/15

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

PREP

givenchy obsedia bracelet in black leather

URSELF louis vuitton aw 2014-15

eugenia kim felix chunkyknit wool beanie

maiyet goldplated horn necklace

tory burch gold-tone faux pearl earrings dolce & gabbana silk crepe de chine blouse

m missoni plaid mohairblend sweater

valentino stretch-knit sweater frame denim le high skinny crop jeans

CHEEKY CHICK miu miu pleated wool mini skirt

STAR LIGHT

saint laurent fair isle mohairblend sweater

IN PLEETS

dkny pleated crepe mini skirt

monica vinader rose goldplated agate bracelet saint laurent aw 2014-15 robert clergerie platform brogues

saint laurent universiteĚ patent-leather brogues

proenza schouler the ps1 medium leather shoulder bag iam by ileana makri i love you silvertwofinger ring

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proenza schouler bucket medium textured-leather shoulder bag

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jean paul gaultier aw 2014/15

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

HUNGER GAMES

fendi silver-plated mother of pearl ring

rick owens aw 2014-15

finds + petite grand goldplated and silk wrap bracelet

adam lippes silk-satin bomber jacket

FINISH THE JOB balmain cropped leather top

jonathan simkhai jersey cropped top

balmain cottongabardine vest

emilio pucci leather tapered pants

DRESS UP WARM rick owens padded washedleather down vest

BACK OFF chloeĚ alpacablend blanket cape

acne studios aw 2014-15 lanvin leather gloves

SNOWED IN chloeĚ alpacablend blanket cape

marc by marc jacobs leather biker boots

maria rudman silver ring

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gareth pugh aw 2014/15

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MISTLETOE AND WINE

SNOW WHITE houghton aw 2014-15

kenneth jay lane gold-plated faux pearl necklace

bibi van der velden tsavorite and pearl ring

alexander mcqueen asymmetric wool and cashmereblend sweater

eugenia kim magritte alpaca beanie

ONCE UPON A DREAM

fendi angora and woolblend sweater

gareth pugh oversized leathertrimmed wool coat

ben-amun gold-plated necklace

frame denim forever karlie mid-rise skinny jeans

chloeĚ aw 2014-15 victoria beckham chain-embellished crepe dress

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valentino scalloped wool and silk-blend crepe shorts

lanvin iconic love gold-tone twofinger ringa

BUNDLE OF GLAM loewe large leather clutch

IN THE 21st CENTURY

miu miu printed leather pumps

kenneth jay lane enameled elephant bracelet

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RAGING RUNWAY TOP CATWALK CHOICES FOR MEN

VALENTINO AW 2014-2015

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RAGING RUNWAY TOP CATWALK CHOICES FOR WOMEN

ATELIER VERSACE

AW 2014-2015

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RAGING RUNWAY TOP CATWALK CHOICES FOR MEN

VERSACE AW 2014-2015

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RAGING RUNWAY TOP CATWALK CHOICES FOR WOMEN

CHRISTIAN DIOR AW 2014-2015

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RAGING RUNWAY TOP CATWALK CHOICES FOR MEN

AMI AW 2014-2015

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RAGING RUNWAY TOP CATWALK CHOICES FOR WOMEN

ULYANA SERGEENKO AW 2014-2015

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

CATWALK

OF LIFE SEMINAR

BY LEANNE ELAHMAD

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CATWALK OF LIFE SEMINAR

By the time we finish university and we’re onto finding our first job, most of us have already established our own sense of style.

We know what we like, what we don’t and what compliments our bodies. However, sometimes the styles we enjoy and the colours we wear can ultimately send out messages to people we are completely unaware of. And what’s worse, sometimes it can work against you and ultimately cost you that job that you should have otherwise got.

Janine Asmar, a Lebanese international fashion designer and Image Specialist, held the ‘Catwalk of Life’ image seminar in order to help equip Lebanese professionals with the necessities to presenting themselves adequately at job interviews, important meeting and on an every day basis.

The seminar room at Sagesse University was filled with professionals eager to hear all about the tips and tricks of the trade. And that’s exactly what Janine did; she unleashed all the necessary tools needed to maintain a professional and personal appearance.

The four-hour long seminar uncovered the hidden powers of colour, body language, shape and dress code.

The audience received a lesson in the do’s and don’ts of creating a professional image, the limits of casual business and the colour combinations to portray a required business message.

THE FOUR-HOUR LONG SEMINAR UNCOVERED THE HIDDEN POWERS OF COLOUR, BODY LANGUAGE, SHAPE AND DRESS CODE The most intriguing of the topics was colour and the affect it can have on you and on others. Here are the things she had to say about colour: Red, is a colour that attracts energy and is usually associated with love and even rage. It is the colour of impact and should be avoided for first time things such as a job interview or a date. Afterall you don’t want to be giving off the wrong impressions.

THE AUDIENCE RECEIVED A LESSON IN THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF CREATING A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE Blue, is a calming colour that doesn’t trigger any major emotions from people. It signifies that you are approachable and it invites people to open up to you. It is highly recommended you wear blue to first-time meetings.

Yellow, is a colour that makes most people feel comfortable, hence why it’s the go-to-colour for journalists who are trying to gather information from people. It is also a daring colour and is most complimenting when worn as an accessory and in smaller pieces.

Green, is a calm and tranquil colour that symbolizes balance and harmony.

It also makes people feel at ease and makes you look easier to talk to.

Janine also gave the audience tips, tools and hands on exercises to master their personal image, while keeping in mind their colouring and personality.

It’s important to know what works in your favour when it comes to all the factors that make up your personal and professional appearance, and what things like the colours you’re wearing really say about you, and even more importantly the type of energy these colours attract from other people.

Furthermore, you need to find the colours that best compliment your own colouring, (meaning your complexion and the colour of your hair) in order to feel great about yourself, because that’s when you look your best.

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NEW + NOW SHARING THE WARMTH AND LIGHT OF HOSPITALITY

THE HILTON BEIRUT’S ANNUAL GLOBAL WEEK OF SERVICE Part of Hilton Worldwide’s annual Global Week of Service, aiming at strengthening the communities within which they operate, Hilton Beirut team members took the opportunity to share their passion for hospitality and service via hands-on volunteer projects and events in their local communities.

For this year’s activities, Hilton Beirut partnered with renowned Lebanese NGOs namely: Donner Sang Compter, Arc-en-Ciel, Children Cancer Center, Lebanese Foundation for Breast Cancer, Operation Big Blue, SANAD Home Hospice Organization and Lebanese Food Bank.

“Team members’ pride is fostered through our CSR program, Travel With Purpose”, said Naïf Zureikat, General Manager, Hilton Hotels in Beirut. “Community involvement, charitable participation and donating to specific and strategic causes are some of the most meaningful ways our team members contribute to enabling our communities while living our values”, he added.

More than 24 volunteers took part of the Global Week of Service activities that aimed at donating blood to save lives, extending care to children cancer patients, collecting and donating funds to help improve

VEA™ AND PAULA YACOUBIAN “MAKE FASHION, NOT LANDFILLS” FOR A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT This season, VEA™ will join in the holiday spirit with a sense of style and a commitment to a better environment, launching its line of designer bags and accessories made from upcycled tires(!) at CinemaCity in Beirut Souks on November 8, 2014. The launch event held in cooperation with Solidere, will enjoy live TV coverage and feature leading journalist and environment advocate Paula Yacoubian, introducing the collection of bags and fashion accessories dedicated to professional businesswomen and inspired by her style: Paula by VEA™.

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the lives of patients with terminal illnesses and their families, recycling for a cause by collecting plastic caps, cleaning the Lebanese shores, selling custom-made pink cupcakes as a salute to Pinktober, and donating food from their shopping lists to many underprivileged families.

The Hilton Worldwide Global Week of Service is the company’s largest annual volunteer service event, uniting approximately 300,000 Team Members in more than 3,900 locations. It is an expression of the company’s vision “to fill the Earth with the light and warmth of hospitality”.

Bags and accessories made of old tires? Not quite. VEA™ collects old tires’ inner rubber tubes (chambres à air) from bicycles, cars and trucks, and converts them into elegant creations sketched exclusively for VEA™ by professional designers. Upcycling consists of finding a new form or purpose for old products and materials to create something useful and pleasing to the eyes. The material is treated scientifically and handcrafted by skilled tailors who incorporate natural fabrics and high-quality buckles, buttons, zippers and other finishing touches in their production. The result is a beautiful, sturdy and environmentally-responsible product that stands the test of time. Each item is unique and carries its own story because its rubber has been subjected to road heat and pressure, creating different patterns, thicknesses and features in the material. Our line of products includes bags, wallets, laptop cases, belts and jewelry, in addition to our signature line of women’s bags and accessories Paula by VEA™.

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BE FASHIONABLY ON-TIME THIS EVENT’S SEASON WITH BREITLING As the stifling summer heat begins to dissipate, the event season once again gets into full swing and style comes to the forefront of every fashion savvy ladies mind. With women across the region no doubt spending numerous hours in front of the mirror deciding on the perfect outfit for

GALACTIC 32 –FOR LADIES WHO BRUNCH For the brand with the winged B, a ladies’ watch must combine performance and elegance, reliability and refinement. The Galactic 32 is the perfect example. The original interpretation of the feminine vision of time, the Galactic 32 is decidedly sophisticated, providing the finishing touch to your favorite brunch dress. Expressing the ultimate in luxury, the Galactic 32’s quality is embodied in its exquisitely crafted dial. Ladies purchasing the timepiece can really let their personality shine through with a wealth of designs and finishing touches, further enhanced by the wide variety of metals, dial colors, straps and bracelets.

their upcoming outing, the choice of accessories can take an outfit from stylish to head turning. Whether it’s a glamourous social event or a business function, luxury watchmaker Breitling can provide you with a stylish and elegant timepiece for every occasion.

GALACTIC 36 AUTOMATIC – AN EVENING WITH THE GIRLS Combining a blend of refined luxury and uncompromising technical sophistication, the Galactic 36 Automatic stands out by its generous diameter that is nonetheless extremely elegant on the wrist. A guaranteed talking point on that night out with the girls, the elegant timepiece is available with a steel, steel and rose gold or rose gold case. Further enhancing the glamourous timepiece, the exquisitely crafted dial is available in various colors, with versions featuring mother-of-pearl and diamonds for that ultimate head turner. Striving to meet the feminine taste of any women, the models are fitted with a choice of metal bracelets, or leather straps, available in a wide variety of colors.

COLT LADY – THE SOCIALITE Designed for the socialite who wants to combine sophistication and elegance, character and performance, the Colt Lady is the perfect accomplice for any social occasion. From ladies day at the races to an evening Gala dinner the Colt Lady is distinguished by a 33 mm case in eye-catching polished steel, which makes an appealing contrast to the satin-brushed finish of the bezel and bracelet. Making a statement on any wrist, a fine circular motif punctuates the black, blue or silver dial with the option of a diamond-set bezel for those ladies requiring extra dazzle. With the region now playing host to some of the world’s leading social events, the model will make sure you don’t miss a moment with the SuperQuartz™ movement ensuring a level of accuracy ten times superior to that of standard quartz.

GALACTIC 32

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COLT LADY

TRANSOCEAN 38 –THE JET-SET WOMAN A tribute to the spirit of travel to distant lands aboard luxurious long-haul airliners, the Breitling Transocean is the perfect companion for that overseas work event. Reinterpreting the pure, original spirit of the Transocean collection, the model will make sure you don’t miss that important client meeting with a twin-aperture calendar and small seconds that far surpassed the functionality of the average watch. The steel case, fitted with a slim beveled bezel, features a 38 mm diameter that is ideal for even the daintiest wrist, whilst the steel mesh bracelet lends an original touch of style to this perfect blend of elegance and performance.

GALACTIC 36 AUTOMATIC

TRANSOCEAN 38

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EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

READY, STEADY, GO! RAGMAG TELLS YOU HOW TO WEAR IT.

BY TEDDY YOUNES

Angelina Jolie wore them in red in Mr. and Mrs. Smith.

What’s more stylish this autumn than to own a black short Hunter Wellies that could be worn for any occasion. Along with the boots keep the summer breeze with this jersey mini dress!

Pull off a black leather pants with a classy Saint Laurent clutch, and even throw on a skinny stocking mid-rise jeans with some old school accessories vintage round shades, silver chain and backpack and you are ready to go!

FIRST KISS moschino cheap and chic metallic leather bustier

burberry shoes & accessories fringed cashmere wrap

roberto cavali clutch

giuseppe zanotti coline embellished suede sandals

TOPSHOP

jennifer fisher prism gold-plated ring

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layered mesh prom skirt

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READY, STEADY, GO! | RAGMAG TELLS YOU HOW TO WEAR IT

OLD SCHOOL karl lagerfeld printed canvas backpack

duffy cashmere beanie

petit bateau cottonjersey turtleneck top bottega veneta oxidized sterling silver earrings Jason Wu FloralPrint Leather Ankle Boots

oscar de la renta leather-paneled woolblend biker jacket

LA BADASS alexander mcqueen skull-print silkchiffon scarf

fendi embellished cat eye acetate mirrored sunglasses

moschino embroidered leather shoulder bag

maison kitsuneĚ printed cottonjersey t-shirt todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two-tone glossed-leather loafers

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EMPERORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW CLOTHES

stella mccartney widebrim wool-felt hat

A wine bar night out to catch up with some friends, a blind date, or an English cup of tea during a sunny afternoon - these stretch wool shorts will give you just what you need to be comfortable. Very stylish and warm for the autumn and they can be dressed just the way youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like it!

A GLASS OF WINE theory larlissa slub linen-blend top

victoria beckham denim superskinny low-rise skinny jeans

givenchy antigona shopping bag in printed coated canvas

burberry shoes & accessories glossed-rubber rain boots

BELSTAFF

cora hooded rubberized cotton cape

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READY, STEADY, GO! | RAGMAG TELLS YOU HOW TO WEAR IT

the row round-frame acetate and metal sunglasses

BLIND DATE

jérôme dreyfuss jojo textured-leather, suede and calf hair shoulder bag toga camouflageprint high-rise slim-leg jeans

chloé knitted sweater

church’s angelina polished-leather ankle boots

TEA TIME

anita ko spike 14-karat gold stud earrings

jimmy choo gold-tone cage clutch

oscar de la renta dec metallic jacquard pumps

saint laurent leather mini skirt

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TONY WARD ELITE MODEL LOOK FRANCE The Elite Model Look France 2014 election finals were held at “Palais de Tokyo” in Paris under the theme « Modern Princesses».

Elite Model Look is the most prestigious international modeling contest where over 350 000 contestants apply every year. It launched the careers of supermodels such as Cindy Crawford and Gisele Bundchen. Fashion designer Tony Ward was chosen to dress the young contestants as he has done so with many celebrities such as Whitney Houston, Rihanna, Mariah Carey and Lady Gaga.

The girls had the chance to wear unique Couture creationsfor the show’s final.

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More than 450 fashion professionals attended the event. The jury was composed of photographers Sofia Sanchez and Mauro Mongiello, Samuel François from Numéro magazine, Josephine Le Tutour, Top Model and winner of Elite Model Look France 2011, Elite Model look International director Victoria Da Silva, and Vick Mihaci, Elite Model Management director, who chose Noémie as the winner.

The event was covered by many renowned magazines to the likes of Be, Glamour and Paris Match who were all seduced by Tony Ward’s creations.

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CULTURE CLASH

CHRISTMAS +

CONSUMERISM

BY LEANNE ELAHMAD

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of the year again where our emails, phone messages and even Whatsapp will get clogged up with the latest deals, gift ideas, must have items of the season or simply products that will, supposedly, make your festive season a breeze. It seems that the one time of the year where people make an effort to be together from their busy lives, a time that is supposed

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to be all about being with family and loved ones to celebrate life and being humble has turned into a spending frenzy. Where we convince ourselves that our 2013 smart phone is no longer doing the job anymore, or our Chanel bag is soo last season, or God forbid, our Rolex is just not ticking like it used too. Have we lost the true meaning of Christmas forever?

MISTLETOE AND WINE

CHRISTMAS + CONSUMERISM

It’s no secret that we are living in a world that is increasingly becoming more materialistic, where we have a growing desire for every product and service on the market, because it’s either going to make our lives much easier or make us look cooler.

We are consumed by consumerism.

Consumerism is a social and economic order that encourages the acquisition of goods and services. The Sage Handbook of Marketing Theory suggests three themes that are constant to world consumption; “desire (wanting things), possession (having things) and identity (being a certain kind of person through the things we have).”

WE ARE CONSUMED BY CONSUMERISM

CHRISTMAS HAS BECOME A KEY RITUAL CELEBRATING CONSUMPTION, AND IT APPEARS TO INCREASINGLY TRANSCEND RELIGIOUS AND GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES

This is further articulated in Sharon Zukin and Jennifer Smith Maguire’s article titled Consumers and Consumption. The article states, “Consumption is a social, cultural, and economic process of choosing good, and this process reflects the opportunities and constraints of modernity.”

There is no doubt that globalisation, being at the center of modernity has had a significant impact on consumerism. We live in a borderless world where at the click at the button we are able to access products and services from different countries.

Globalisation means the world is increasingly desiring the same brands and styles, suggesting that consumerism is bringing cultures of the world together. The Sage Handbook of Marketing even questions whether global Christmas celebrations also mean an emergence of global consumption holidays.

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The handbook states, “Christmas has become a key ritual celebrating consumption, and it appears to increasingly transcend religious and geographic boundaries.”

The handbook also suggests that it is retail merchants and manufacturers who have largely driven the popularity of global Christmas as a way to increase sales and profits.

It states, “by encouraging consumers to join the festivities by buying luxurious gifts for family and friends, it is hoped that normal caution will be thrown to the wind and the exuberance of the season will lead to spending with abandon.”

All forms of media and especially social media, aid merchants and manufactures in being able to communicate advertising material that appears to fulfill consumer desires to the masses quicker than ever.

Zukin and Maguire’s article reinforces these points by suggesting how consumption is attributed to elements such as economic and cultural institutions, large-scale changes in social structure, and discourses of the self.

The article states, “new technologies, ideologies, and delivery systems create consumption spaces in an institutional framework shaped by key social groups, while individual men and women experience consumption as a project of forming, and expressing, identity.”

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CULTURE CLASH

With all these new technological advances, the handbook argues, “rather than being led by folklore, Christmas is now more of a marketing and media-driven phenomenon.”

Evidently, billboards, social media and other forms of advertising such as magazines and television continue to broaden our knowledge and awareness about the latest products and services that will not only make our lives easier but also help us to be socially accepted.

Furthermore, shopping at malls has become a personal experience. Think about it, every time you purchase something from a store they ask for your phone number and your email address. This is so they are able to contact you and inform you of their latest collections and the word we all like to hear, sales.

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On a personal level, while writing this article I received at least 3 text messages telling me about Lebanon’s ‘Black Friday’ sales. And yes I was tempted…

But while retail stores in Lebanon sent out messages inviting people to indulge in their sales as an incentive to shop for Christmas gifts, in other parts of the world people took a stance to not go shopping on one of the busiest days of the year for retail sales.

‘Buy Nothing Day’ is an international day of protest against consumerism, which is usually held the day after thanksgiving. While saying no to shopping for one day doesn’t really change our consumerist ways, the purpose of the day is to raise awareness and examine society’s issue of over-consumption.

This event has been taking place since 1992, and has even been called Occupy Xmas on occasion, where rather than just raising awareness about society’s over-consumption, it encourages consumers to choose local produce over their alternatives, and simply putting the money back into the local economy. Some protestors even suggest making your own presents for Christmas, which we can all agree adds a nice personal touch.

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CHRISTMAS + CONSUMERISM

Last year, students from the University of Leicester participated in the event, after being urged by an academic to reconsider what they are consuming.

Dr. Smith Maguire, Lecturer in Cultural Production and Consumption from the University said: “I can’t think of a better way to think about critical management that to ask my students to participate. Buy Nothing Day encourages us to step off the treadmill of consumption and think about what we consume, why we consume it, and why we might be consuming too much.”

1millionwomen.com.au provides tips for people, in particularly teenagers, about how they can overcome the pressures of consumerism and turning to alternatives to gift buying. These tips include: need over want, where you buy something the person actually needs; buy a loved one an experience instead of an object; or simply make a gift for someone. See, those DIY Youtube videos did come in handy.

IT IS NOT ABOUT FLAUNTING PRICE TAGS OR OBLIGATORY GIFT EXCHANGES Relevant Magazine however says we should embrace Christmas and all its gift-giving traditions. In an article titled, In Defense of Christmas Consumerism, it states, “The incarnation is serious. But just because it is serious does not mean it must be somber. Angels broke out in joyful song and wise men brought gifts. We should give gifts, too. It is not about flaunting price tags or obligatory gift exchanges. It’s about giving to those you love simply because you love them.”

Besides can you imagine a Christmas without gifts under your Christmas tree and its glistening lights? What would children get up and run to in the early hours of Christmas morning? Or how do we explain to them that there is no Santa Clause?

LET IT INVOLVE PLANNING AND EVEN BUDGET SETTING Whatever it is you decide to do this festive season let it involve planning and even budget setting. Perhaps it’s not the wisest idea to go for a ‘no-gift-giving’ Christmas, but maybe it’s time to think about the alternatives like making the gift or buying an experience for someone.

Afterall, Christmas doesn’t have to be about having the latest products on the market, or buying everything at the sales, it’s important to filter your social media content with caution.

Besides the best gifts are often inexpensive but rich in meaning and understanding.

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CULTURE CLASH

UNDISCOVERED TREASURES

IN LEBANON’S SOUKS

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY SOUK AL AHAD PHOTOS BY MELISSA TABEEK SAIDA PHOTOS KAYLYN HLAVATY TRIPOLI SOUKS ELIE MOUSSA

For hundreds of years, souks have been embedded in the culture and city life across the Middle East. In Lebanon, there are many of souks that have withstood wars and economic transitions. They are saturated with people, heritage, treasures and traditions. Each souk is as different as its vendor and eager customer. A step inside a souk and one will step into a time machine with each examination of an antique, vinyl record and painting.

Hunting for that special piece isn’t for the disheartened, easily impatient individual. If you take your time and have the right mindset, trash will become treasure around every cobbled corner and unpolished piece.

SOUK AL AHAD Located just outside Beirut, this souk boasts some of best antiques around. One of the best stalls around is Naji, who is a dedicated professional of customer service—a rarity in a souk where everything is a ‘fend for yourself approach’. In just five minutes of standing there, Naji calls a man carrying an assortment of refreshments. His stall is located down the second row of stalls from the back entrance. As you walk the down the aisle, stacks of oil paintings and vinyl records catches a buyer’s curious eye. For Naji what started as a hobby turned into a long time business.

“In my teens, I started buying watches and vinyl records just for the fun of it. When I found out that the value of the watches and vinyl records tripled in value, I was hooked and have been doing it ever since,” says Naji.

Naji is a Lebanese collector who specializes in paintings, cameras and records. He has a story behind each piece and is fair in price, particularly for his regular customers. Before leaving, I bought a leather satchel bag,

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UNDISCOVERED TREASURES IN LEBANONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SOUKS

ten vintage post cards and a beaded necklace for $25. Oh, he also threw in a vintage metal brooch and another beaded necklace for free!

Across the way is Ahmadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neatly kept stall that is decorated with paintings, antique metal trinkets and knives. Ahmad, who is originally from Syria, is a merchant and talented artist.

He sells a lot of what he makes and takes pride in sharing the beauty of art with each passerby.

An oil painting brought back from his friend in Damascus caught the eye of a friend. For 30,000 LL, she bought this cityscape canvas.

Down the other alley ways, there are other stalls as diverse as the next one. Each vendor takes pride in their goods and is looking for a customer who treasures a piece as much as them. Meandering through the crowd of people, stalls are overflowing with paperback books, bauble jewelry, barrels of roasted colorful nuts and racks of hanging clothing fresh off the ship from China.

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CULTURE CLASH SAIDA SOUK In a short 30 minute ride from Beirut is the ancient Old Saida Souk located across the picturesque sea castle. The souk was recently refurbished, but still maintains its old charm with the vaulted ceilings and crowds of people walking on the cobbled roads which resembles a scene from the Shakespearean times. Here you’ll find aged men working diligently at their trades—whether it is making shoes, tailoring clothes or making jewelry. This souk is the location for anything handmade and repairs. The shoe cobblers have been there for generation after generation mending the tired soles of Saida residents and foreigners alike.

OUTSIDE THE SOUK, RESIDENTS RETURN TO THE FAST PACED LIFE OF THE DAILY ACTIVITIES Outside the souk, residents return to the fast paced life of the daily activities. Near the entrance facing the sea castle is the best falafel in Lebanon, Falafel Abu Rami. Coming directly out of the fryer, the chick peas patties are bursting with flavor and steam, which eludes to the popularity of the place. A second popular place just across the way is the store Sabounna. When walking into the store, a blast of aroma oils tempts the nose to buy every product on the shelf. Handmade garments, olive oil soaps and sprays line the wooden shelves.

These products are the definition of what local is and are a symbol of traditional practice.

SOUK AL SAYYAGHEEN Known as the oldest souk in the city of Tripoli, this bazaar specializes in goldsmiths and silversmiths. Here, you can find merchants selling an assortment of gold and silver jewelry—each vendor different from the next.

Just a couple steps into the cobbled walkway leading to the souk is Al Rachid Jewellery. From outside, the window is covered with gold bracelets, rings and necklaces which are tempting and mesmerizing to any one sauntering by. Owner, Mohammed Hassoun has been in the business for 16 years after taking it over from his father. He says that selling and buying gold is a small industry in Lebanon, but nonetheless he still enjoys maintaining his family’s tradition. Pieces can range in price, starting at $35 for one gram of 18 K gold. He acquires gold from places such Italy and Turkey to turn them into beautiful, wearable pieces.

“You bring in a picture of any piece and we will make it exactly like the original. We have designer rings that are exactly identical to the real thing, everything from the look to the weight,” says Hassoun.

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ANY VISITOR IS GUARANTEED TO FIND A TREASURE WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED

If gold isn’t your thing, don’t fret. Outside the gold souk, there are shops selling clothes, delicious sweets, books and scarves. If you get thirsty along the way, one can grab fresh orange juice and a bit to eat. From every corner and vendor, any visitor is guaranteed to find a treasure waiting to be discovered. All it takes is some patience, time and an eye to find the diamond in the rough.

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Let it snow softness, this season!

, perfect care for special fabrics DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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MIRROR, MIRROR

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AN EVENING AT THE OPERA WITH

GUERLAIN Guerlain draws on the most beautiful stories in its sumptuous heritage, enhancing them with a modern touch. In this way, a legendary scent can give rise to a magical make-up collection. In 1937, Jacques Guerlain created a fragrance in homage to his great friend Diaghilev, the founder of the Ballets Russes. Loosely inspired by the bow tie worn by men on gala evenings and ballerinas’ bows, it was fashioned in midnight blue Baccarat crystal and covered in a golden film. A fragrance of yesteryear that has inspired a sumptuous, sophisticated and contemporary Christmas collection worthy of a fairy tale… whose story begins one evening at the opera. MIDNIGHT ON THE STEPS OF THE OPERA… A sumptuous ballet has just come to a close. The subtle shimmer of a black bow, whitened by the snow, catches the eyes. Wrapped around the chignon of a ballerina, whose radiance it beautifully enhances, it has flown away gracefully with a leap and slipped in through the gates of the opera house before coming to rest on the opera steps. According to legend, it offers the secret of grace and eternal seduction to whomever owns it.

COQUE D’OR

PERFUMED SHIMMER POWDER BODY & HAIR For the first time since its creation, Guerlain has reproduced Coque d’Or’s original bottle and reinterpreted it in gold- lacquered glass. It is adorned for the occasion with a vibrant red bulb, evoking the opera’s velvet curtains and other luxurious fabrics.

THE GRACE OF A FINELY SHIMMERING LIGHTAS-AIR POWDER With a mere press of the bulb, the twirling, airy powder enfolds the hair, forearms, neck and décolleté in a delicate sparkling veil. This golden-toned halo is subtly scented with Coque d’Or’s legendary chypre notes, recomposed in an exclusive variation. This blend of rose, bergamot and patchouli notes will leave any skin tone velvety soft, illuminated, beautifully enhanced and utterly desirable.

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PETROUCHKA PALETTE

EYES & BLUSH PALETTE, THE REFINEMENT OF AN EXCEPTIONAL PALETTE TO SLIP INTO YOUR EVENING BAG The golden case is adorned with a precious red fabric bow. This elastic accessory can easily be transformed into a delightful bracelet or a flamboyant hair tie. The essentials are combined to warm up eyes and cheekbones to perfection. On the top layer, five finely iridescent eyeshadow shades, from champagne to copper brown. Beneath, four matte or pearlescent blushes. Fresh pink and coral revive the cheekbones, while rosewood and brown sculpt them to perfection.

MÉTÉORITES PERLES D’ÉTOILES THE COMPLEXION OF A STAR DANCER Crafted entirely in golden metal, it features the famous bow inspired by Coque d’Or sculpted on the lid. Its soft and generous red powder puff echoes the ribbon’s lining.

THE LEGENDARY PEARLS ARE AVAILABLE IN AN UNPRECEDENTED HARMONY The legendary pearls are available in an unprecedented harmony of six light and radiant tones that has been specially designed to enhance the complexion after nightfall under the lights of evening.

From matte beige to the most iridescent shades, Guerlain brings a sense of enchantment to colour, offering a particularly radiant and luminous selection for beautifully glowing skin.

THE LIPS PLAY THE LEADING ROLE EXCEPTIONAL COMPLETE LIP COLOUR Ready to go out, the exceptional lip colour is adorned in red lacquer, set off with a golden charm and mechanism. As precious as a jewel, the aptly named 820 Rouge Parade delivers a luminous red bullet. The lips are instantly heightened with the pure, characteristically French red of gala evenings.

It is the shade worn by Natalia Vodianova in the campaign visual, attracting every eye from her balcony.

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A MAGNETIC GAZE COLOUR FUSION EYESHADOWS, VIBRANT EFFECTS The eyeshadows blend seamlessly with the skin for an iridescent make-up result. Each duo embodies an eloquent interpretation. The 10 Cygne Noir harmony pairs shimmering silver black, like caviar, alongside plum with copper glints for an intense, sophisticated finish that creates a hypnotising evening look. The 11 Cygne Blanc harmony combines silvery ballerina pink and frosted white for a fresh, pure and dazzling effect, even at the height of day…

A STUNNING GOLD ON THE NAILS Nail lacquer available in two limited-edition shades. The 400 Coque d’Or shade, a metallic shimmering gold to illuminate your nails with a precious sheen. The 901 L’Oiseau de Feu shade, a sumptuous top coat, applied over coloured nail lacquer to create a decorative “gold leaf” effect. It also offers a new, fine jewellery-inspired variation on the French manicure, applied as a fine sparkling tip.

CAPTIVATING SHINE ON THE LIPS INTENSE COLOUR & SHINE BARE LIP SENSATION This gloss, offering a lustrous effect and a rarely equalled bare lip sensation, is expressed in two collectors’ shades. 920 Rouge Parade, a deep black cherry for an enchanting smile. And 901 L’Oiseau de Feu, a sheer top coat for the lips, heightened with golden pearl particles, used on its own or over your favourite lipstick to create an ultra-sparkling shine

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CLINIQUE SMART SERUM

Have you ever wanted a skin-care product that is able to prevent and repair damage as well as maintain great skin, one that was created specifically for you? Brace yourself ladies, the Clinique Smart Custom Repair Serum is here and it’s designed to create the greatest skin for you.

With our lives increasingly becoming more hectic as we try to squeeze in every last essential detail into our already busy schedules, we are always on the search for something that’s going to get the job done quickly.

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Unfortunately, with all the running around comes the disadvantage of our skin being exposed to UV rays and toxic materials that cause deformation in our skin cells creating unwanted blemishes, pimples, acne and even the word that no one likes to hear, wrinkles.

The new Clinique Smart Serum, delivers targeted repair to the skin in damaged areas you can and can’t see.

It visibly addresses the skin’s changing needs with its ability to understand your skin’s past in order to change its future.

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Since Clinique pioneered its first custom-fit skin care in 1968, the brand has evolved into one of the most significant producers of skin-care products around the world. This has been largely due to the precision of its scientists, who have been working on the Smart serum product for five years. After conducting research and many trials to create the perfect balance between highly active ingredients and calming ingredients, the results are in: a product that is smart and promising.

So how is it customized for your skin? The power of the formula is in the 37 patents that help to deliver custom repair. The damaged skin sends out distress signals, which are detected and understood by the Clinique Smart Custom-Repair Serum. The serum then delivers the appropriate ingredients to start visibly correcting the damage. If the ingredients are not needed for a specific concern, they remain on call.

Observations over a 12-week study revealed visible improvement in treating uneven skin tone, dark spots, dullness, lines and wrinkles, and firming. It’s all about how the ingredients work together to give you the following results

OPTIMIZES SKIN WITH SOOTHING INGREDIENTS The serum’s soothing components such as red algae, licorice extracts and caffeine help to calm the skin which allows a high concentration of actives to provide targeted repair to your skin’s needs without causing irritation

TARGETS UNEVEN SKIN TONE, DARK SPOTS OR SKIN DULLNESS The Smart serum is mainly made up of plant extracts and natural ingredients that help to nourish your skin such as grape extract, which helps to reduce the appearance if existing discolouration and helps to provide that glow of an even complexion.

Antioxidants like vitamin C help to fight off any unnatural skin pigmentation, combined with acidic components, which work together to break up dark spots. Certain acidic ingredients also help to promote cell renewal and thus produce a luminous surface.

TARGETS LINES, WRINKLES AND FIRMS SKIN We all want a product that diminishes lines and wrinkles and with a blend of collagen boosting ingredients, the Smart serum helps to push wrinkles from below, thus firming and lifting the skin. The ingredients used as repair enzymes work together to help fix UV damage, which also causes lines and wrinkles.

The Clinique Smart Serum is suitable for all skin types, ages and ethnicities, and most importantly this newest advanced technology in skin care was created for one skin in the world. Yours.

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UNE

BY NIGHT NIGHT BLUES COLLECTION

enhance your eyes with a perfectly imperfect line

An elegant, timeless and yet so modern blue. The new range of colours in the Night Blues collection includes a trio of cool shades and ashy tones which is designed for everyone and suits all eye colouring. Drawing on the nuances of a vital piece in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wardrobe, UNE has created a palette based on denim blue, a timeless colour that has dressed generations of women for decades.

A touch of blue on your eyes for a smoky effect to match your style!

An attractive blend of powder-textured eyeshadows where blue mingles with brown in a subtly iridescent touch to enhance the eyes. A 100% natural* subtle smoky eyes effect.

Two Sfumato generously pigmented to dress the eyelids with deep coloured smoky lasting up to 10 hours**.

A Frosty enriched with mica powder to give light through its soft, delicately frosty powder texture. Natural pearly micro-tints are evenly spread over the eyelid without migrating.

A deep blue, the key colour of this palette at the heart of the denim trend. Easy to blend or intensify. It is intuitively applied with finger as a solid colour over the entire eyelid or using the brush built into the case. Its velvety texture glides over the skin while producing a lovely smoky effect. A subtly grey-brown to create a smoky effect blend with the dominant shade. Applied with the built-in brush, it produces an infinite variety of foolproof effects, for day or night wear.

An iridescent grey. Soft and fine, this frosty texture brightens and refreshes the gaze. Applied to the inside of the eyelid and on the corner of the eye, it leaves a touch of light which has an immediate effect!

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DIOR PRESTIGE NUIT UPON THE FIRST NIGHT, A NEW-FOUND BEAUTY BLOSSOMS

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At Dior, the rose reigns over all other flowers.

The sight of the blossoming beauty of a rose at the Granville garden, that enchanting Eden of Christian Dior’s childhood, became an inspiration for some of his most exquisite creations.

Today, the rose remains one of Dior’s most powerful symbols.

Channelling this passion, in 2000 the Dior scientists created a unique rose, dedicated to cosmetic purposes. After seven generations of hybridisation, a rose blessed with astonishing vitality was born and christened the Rose de Granville in tribute to Christian Dior’s garden.

Nine years of research were then required to capture this flower’s extraordinary vitality within a powerful nectar.

This exclusive essence, bursting with life, is infused into the heart of the exceptional Dior Prestige skincare range.

Delicate skin possesses rare beauty, a fragile treasure requiring its own special skincare ritual.

Supple and radiant, its full yet fine texture needs protection from the imbalances that accelerate the ageing process.

A response to the demands of such delicacy, the Dior Prestige anti-ageing skincare line is born.

LA CREME DE NUIT IN LIGHT OF THESE DISCOVERIES, THE DIOR RESEARCHERS SET ABOUT CREATING A NIGHT-TIME SKINCARE PRODUCT SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR DELICATE SKIN. To do so, the powerful buds from the Rose de Granville’s first bloom have been brought to the fore. This new extract is infused using an exclusive vector, resulting in a uniquely effective and sensorial formula.

And so the Dior Prestige night-time ritual is born.

The boundaries of the skin’s night-time regeneration are being pushed back. Signs of ageing are healed more quickly, more intensely, more profoundly. Upon the first night, a new-found beauty blossoms.

Night after night, the skin looks visibly younger.

LE NECTAR DE NUIT A PIONEERING DISCOVERY: THE IL6 PROTEIN, SOURCE OF THE SKIN’S NOCTURNAL AGEING. For many years, Dior has been amassing knowledge on the micro-inflammations that speed up the ageing process. When delicate skin is not treated well, a chain sequence of micro-inflammations is triggered.

Taken off guard by this imperceptible reaction, the skin becomes worn and prematurely ages.

In response, the Dior Prestige line has been developed using the strength of the Rose de Ganville Nectar, which fights to slow down this micro-inflammation phenomenon.Discovered several years ago, the pro-inflammatory protein IL6 has been singled out as an important messenger in the waves of micro-inflammatories linked to ageing.Many recent studies consider this molecule – particularly affected by sleep depravation – to be a marker for a lack of sleep.

For the first time, Dior Science has uncovered its role in skin ageing.

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CULTURE CLASH

WINTER ITCH Do you suffer from winter itchy skin? This is a common wintertime problem that occurs when temperatures drop and the air becomes cold and dry. Living in a house that has central heating only makes the problem worse unless you run a humidifier constantly. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best way to deal with the frustrating problem of winter itchy skin?

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WINTER ITCH

HUMIDIFY YOUR HOME To treat winter, itchy skin, start by increasing the humidity in your home, particularly the bedroom where you sleep. There are humidifiers at all price levels and many small, portable ones are quite affordable. Not only do they help with itching in winter, but humidified air keeps mucous membranes moist which reduces the risk of wintertime colds and viruses.

START BY INCREASING THE HUMIDITY IN YOUR HOME, PARTICULARLY THE BEDROOM WHERE YOU SLEEP

CHANGE YOUR BATH AND SHOWER HABITS If you’re used to showering twice a day, cut back to no more than once a day in the winter. Exposing your body to too much water is drying which can make winter itchy skin worse.

Use a moisturizing soap such as Dove which is less likely to strip the skin of the oils it needs to badly. If you bathe instead of shower, add bath oil to the water. When you step out of the bath or shower, apply a rich moisturizer while your skin is still damp; and resist the urge to stay in the bath or shower too long since this only dries the skin out further.

PROTECT EXPOSED SKIN WHEN OUTDOORS If you do sports or other outdoor activities in the winter, cover as much skin as possible. If the temperatures are low, cover exposed areas with a heavy layer of moisture and apply petroleum jelly to the lips for additional protection.

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AVOID SCRATCHING WINTER ITCHY SKIN

DON’T SKIMP ON THE SUNSCREEN

Keep your skin moisturized to reduce the need to scratch dry, itchy areas. Repeated scratching can lead to thickening of the skin, a condition known as lichenification which can be difficult to control. Cover itchy areas with a layer of petroleum jelly or mineral oil to reduce the tendency to scratch.

During the winter, many people think it’s okay to put the sunscreen away. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you have winter itchy skin, choose a moisturizing sunscreen designed for sensitive skin to avoid aggravating the dry skin problem. Consider using a sunscreen designed for children or one that contains natural botanicals since they’re often less drying and irritating.

REPEATED SCRATCHING CAN LEAD TO THICKENING OF THE SKIN Take some commonsense measures and give winter dry skin the boot. It’s one less cold weather problem you’ll have to deal with.

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NEW + NOW

NESPRESSO BRINGS IRRESISTIBLE DESSERT-INSPIRED INDULGENCE TO ITS LIMITED EDITION VARIATIONS RANGE As part of the quest to continually surprise and delight with extraordinary coffee experiences, Nespresso tempted its Facebook fans across the globe with five new indulgent aromas and asked them to comment on their favourite. The three most popular are now making their debut this November as the new Limited Edition Variations Grands Crus - Hazelnut Dessert*,

Chocolate Mint, Apple Crumble. With these new Limited Edition Grands Crus, Nespresso has combined the highest quality coffee with innovative aromas to create exceptional moments of pleasure for Club Members. The sublime partnership of the balanced and rounded Livanto Grand Cru combined with the flavours of some of the world’s most indulgent desserts is truly a match made in heaven. The Variations Grands Crus are best served alone as a 40ml espresso and each of the Variations has an intensity level of six on a scale of one-to–ten. But the gourmand experience doesn’t need to stop there as adding milk will bring an extra touch of refinement, transforming the Variations into an exquisite coffee moment. Please visit www. nespresso.com/variations for full recipes.

HEAD & SHOULDER OIL REPLACEMENT STYLING CREAM EVERYDAY STYLING WITH H &S WITHOUT THE WORRY OF DANDRUFF Want to style your hair everyday without the worry of dandruff? Head & Shoulders introduces the solution! The new oil replacement styling cream provides you with the ultimate styling solution without compromise. Use H&S OR styling cream after every wash as it hydrates, conditions and protects your hair thanks to its ZPT technology that fights dandruff and achieves the desired look without much effort.

Now look at the mirror with confidence, and style your hair in whichever way you want without the worry of dandruff with new H&S Oil Replacement Styling Cream.

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NEW + NOW

VAN EYCK JEWELRY LAUNCHES IN THE MIDDLE EAST WITH INAUGURAL BIRDS OF PAPUA COLLECTION

Inspiration, craftsmanship and the world’s finest diamonds combine to create jewelry that captures the attention and hearts of those who wear it.

High-end Belgian jeweler Van Eyck launches in the Middle East today with its regional debut at the Dubai International Jewellery Show. Pushing the boundaries of jewelry design and craftsmanship, Van Eyck creates exquisite works of art from the finest diamonds, exclusively for the world’s most discerning customers. Van Eyck’s inaugural collection, Birds of Papua, consists of just 25 intricately

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designed rings inspired by remarkable animals native to Papua New Guinea. Only ten of each ring design will ever be made and once the 250-piece collection is released no more will ever become available.

Named after the renowned Flemish painter Van Eyck, one of the most important artists of the fifteenth century and a pioneer in painting precious stones, Van Eyck handpicks the finest diamonds for each of its rings. On the inside of each piece a delicate pink sapphire is set, a hallmark intended to be only seen by the owner – another sentiment to how the smallest of details have been considered.

The pieces are all limited edition and owners receive the original sketches by the designer, along with information about the bird that inspired the specific piece.

It’s not only the rings that are unique, the creative team has revolutionised the way each piece is presented to its clients and developed a highly original, whimsically styled box, so intricate and unusual that customers will value the packaging in its own right.

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CULTURE CLASH

RUN

FOR YOUR LIFE

WHAT DO YOU DO IF RUNNING IN THE COLD MAKES YOU FEEL TERRIBLE?

IF IT’S DIFFICULT TO BREATHE IN THE COLD It’s one thing to resolve to run each day. It’s another to power ahead when the cold starts affecting you in all kinds of ways. You could certainly do your running indoors on a treadmill. You’d keep away the numbness, the runny nose and the labored breathing.

Running outside, though, can simply feel better and more natural.

Here’s what you can do to deal with the problems that come up when you run in frigid weather.

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If you are actually short of breath when you run but not at other times, you need to see a doctor about exercise-induced asthma. A puff out of an inhaler could clear your airways quickly. If the problem isn’t asthma, you may be able to get more air in breathing through your mouth, instead of your nose. When you breathe through your mouth, though, the air isn’t cleaned and warmed before it gets to your lungs.

To have cold air go directly to your lungs isn’t bad for you. It simply comes down to personal preference, whether you feel comfortable with breathing in very cold air.

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RUN FOR YOUR LIFE

IF YOUR EARS GET SO COLD THAT THEY BEGIN TO HURT Your nose and ears have a great deal of surface area exposed for their size. They can quickly lose body heat and turn cold. Since the ears are made of thin cartilage, they don’t even get much blood supply to stay warm on.

If your ears become very cold when running, wearing a cap that covers your ears is the obvious way to protect them. If a cap feels restricting, though, you could wear a headband or earmuffs just to cover your ears. It’s a good idea to get ones made of material that is able to wick sweat off your skin.

TO HAVE COLD AIR GO DIRECTLY TO YOUR LUNGS ISN’T BAD FOR YOU

IF YOUR TOES GO NUMB IN THE COLD Poor circulation could be one reason why feet tend to go cold and numb in cold weather.

Overly tight shoes are another possible reason. When your shoes or socks are overly tight, they can slow down circulation to your feet and make them cold. You could try running in shoes and socks that aren’t as tight and find out if they make a difference.

In general, it’s a good idea to not wear socks that separate your toes. When your toes are together, they tend to stay warmer. For even warmer toes, you should try two or three pairs of socks, one over the other. You could also try running with foot warmers on.

RUNNING IN THE COLD GIVES YOU A RUNNY NOSE Your nose does more than to be an anchoring structure on your face - its job is to clean up, warm up and humidify the air you breathe before it gets to your lungs. Cold winter air tends to be extremely dry. If you nose runs when it’s cold, it’s just a sign that it’s trying very hard to do its job humidifying the air you breathe in - to the point that produces too much moisture.

Some runners try to use prescription sprays to get their noses to stop running. Those are meant for allergies, though, and aren’t too good idea for regular runny noses. The best you can do is to carry tissues with you.

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WHEN YOUR SHOES OR SOCKS ARE OVERLY TIGHT, THEY CAN SLOW DOWN CIRCULATION TO YOUR FEET AND MAKE THEM COLD IF YOU JOINTS FEEL TIGHT AND LEADEN IN THE COLD The body slows down in cold weather. You don’t have as much circulation as you do when it’s warm. With slower circulation, your joints tend to lock up. It doesn’t take long to get rid of cold weather stiffness, though. You simply need to give yourself an extra 15 minutes to warm up. You will speed up your circulation doing a few simple exercises to get your joints loosened up.

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CULTURE CLASH

OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY

Habits are everywhere in our daily lives. Brushing your teeth, pulling out of the driveway and drinking something like coffee or tea in the morning are all consistent habits. Most of the time, they are done without even realizing that you are performing a habit—whether they are good or bad.

As 2015 draws near and 2014 fades away as past memories, the desire to adjust and control our behaviors, attitudes and habits is fresh in our minds. Motivation is at its peak and societal pressure to change bad habits into good habits remains strong for several months following the New Year. Changing habits seems like a daunting mission but with small, significant changes and goals, the outcome will be more attainable.

When adjusting a preexisting habit, many people think it is just about the motivation level. Dr. Dory Hachem, M.D., head of psychiatry at La Croix Hospital says motivation isn’t the only factor, but rather the doing tiny behaviors that contribute to the overall change in a habit.

“Time is also a factor in changing certain behaviors. For example, if you want to run a marathon today, you simply can’t do it because you are unable to exert that much energy at a given time. But if I told you to go for a light jog, you can do it. If this [running] is done over a period of time, you will build up energy and strength to run farther and farther each time,” Dr. Hachem says.

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It is important to remember that the New Year isn’t meant to make significant, catalyst changes starting on January 1, but instead improving your quality of life through new perspectives, attitudes and behaviors. In order to do this, Dr. Hachem explains a three step rule, which is often known as “The Golden Rule of Habit Change”.

“First you need a certain motivational level to do a behavior. Then you need the ability to actually do the task you choose. (i.e. running or walking up a mountain) and third, which is the most important, is the cue or trigger,” Dr. Hachem explains. “The trigger causes an automatic behavior to start.”

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OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW

Making small changes in behaviors can impact your overall goal. The trigger to go to the gym is to lose weight or stay fit. If you don’t frequently go to the gym, then the initial impulse to go won’t necessarily be easy. Dr. Hachem suggests doing something small to start off with and then building your way up to another attainable goal.

“The trick is doing a tiny behavior first. If you eat a big meal, instead of sitting on the couch, go for a walk or do five pushups. After each day, your stamina will increase, hence a greater motivation to keep going,” Dr. Hachem says.

He also suggests not putting a strict time on a goal because people put all their energy into the first week or month which results in them losing focus, energy and perspective of the accomplished tasks. Something most people can relate to is the benefits of changing your environment. Dr. Hachem notes that aside from changing habits, a different setting is important for overall well-being.

CHANGING HABITS SEEMS LIKE A DAUNTING MISSION

Wendy Wood, PhD, the James B. Duke Professor at Duke University, conducted a study of 115 students who transferred to Texas A&M University. The study found that moving to a new environment removed automatic guides for performing habits such as exercising, reading the paper and studying and spurred the students to make new decisions and behaviors based. She concluded that “sustainability of habits is highly dependent on where you perform them, how you feel, the time of day and the presence of other people.”

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Dr. Hachem suggests adding a small behavior after a bad habit and also be capable of having a certain amount of energy to perform the task.

“If you associate this small change in behavior with a reward or personal ‘congratulations’ , your brain will hold on to this good feeling and will enable you to complete the task the next day,” says Dr. Hachem.

Often, a person doesn’t understand the cravings (triggers) behind certain behaviors until you look for them. Once you dissect the habit, it will become easier to find a new routine with a new reward. An example of this is snacking.

Ask yourself: Is it the reward to satisfy hunger or is to stop onset boredom? If you’re bored, go for a walk or check the internet for a couple of minutes. Once you recognize this trigger, it will be easier to change the behavior and adopt a new routine.

“Changing behavior is like a seed in a way. The more you attend to changing your behavior, it will grow and become a new routine. Find the right place to add a small change to your routine. Don’t look for the outcome, but rather the change in your overall behavior and everything else will follow,” explains Dr. Hachem.

ONCE YOU DISSECT THE HABIT, IT WILL BECOME EASIER TO FIND A NEW ROUTINE WITH A NEW REWARD DORY G. HACHEM, M.D Head Department of Psychiatry at “ La Croix Hospital” Beirut, Lebanon Head of the Medical Committee at “ La Croix Hospital” Beirut, Lebanon Ex-President of the Lebanese Psychiatric Association (2000 – 2002) Clinical Medical Associate at AUBMC, Psychiatry Department, Beirut, Lebanon Certificate of Psychopharmacology –Medical school, Department of Psychiatry, Georgetown University,Psychopharmacology Research Division (1994) Psychiatry Rotation at Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry Harvard Medical school, , Boston, USA (1995) Member of the Community Epidemiological Work Group at the National Institute on Drug Abuse NIDA, Bethesda, USA (1993-2000) International member of the American Psychiatric Association 82120 (since 1995)

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TAKE ME WITH YOU

3 REMOTE EUROPEAN

ARCTIC DESTINATIONS

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLER The Arctic is one of the few areas on Earth which remain truly unspoilt. Sporting some of the world’s most stunning scenery, unique wildlife, tiny remote towns and villages, and of course, the famous northern lights, there is certainly no shortage of reasons to visit some of the more distant northern climes. Whether it’s the 24-hour daylight of the summer months or the perpetual darkness broken only by a brief, otherworldly twilight and the colourful northern lights of the winter months, any time of year is a good time to go on a trip to the Arctic, depending on your preferences.

In this article, we’ll take a brief look at three of the more remote destinations beyond the Arctic Circle.

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THE FOUNTAINS OF BRATISLAVA | HOLIDAY ITINERARY

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TAKE ME WITH YOU TOP TO BOTTOM: LONGYEARBYEN, NORWAY POLAR BEAR WITH HER YEARLING CUBS AGAINST ARCTIC SUNSET NATURAL PHENOMENON OF NORTHERN LIGHTS (AURORA BOREALIS)

OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: ICEBERG AT DUSK IN SCORESBYSUND IN EASTERN GREENLAND TASIILAQ, GREENLAND DOG SLEDDING TOUR GROUP IN TASIILAQ

SVALBARD Far beyond the Arctic Circle lies the Norwegian-administered archipelago of Svalbard, a desolate land of majestic mountains and towering glaciers where there are more polar bears than people. Surprisingly, however, around 2,600 people call this place home, with the vast majority of the population living in the town of Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen, the largest island of the group.

With the seemingly never-ending polar night of the winter months and temperatures which rarely go above 10 °C even in the middle of summer, Svalbard might not sound like the most hospitable place to visit, but at the same time, it is undoubtedly one of the number one places in the world to experience the completely unspoiled wonders of the Arctic in all their glory.

IT IS UNDOUBTEDLY ONE OF THE NUMBER ONE PLACES IN THE WORLD TO EXPERIENCE THE COMPLETELY UNSPOILED WONDERS OF THE ARCTIC IN ALL THEIR GLORY Though getting to Svalbard is expensive and often time-consuming, it has become a surprisingly popular destination for the more adventurous of Arctic travellers. The vast majority of tourists base themselves in the capital of Longyearbyen, which is home to the largest airport in the archipelago. During the summer, many people also visit the islands as part of a polar cruise.

The most adventurous among visitors may even consider a trip to the tiny settlement of Ny-Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost permanently inhabited places with a winter population of around 30 to 35. Another destination is the sole-remaining Russian-administered mining settlement of Barentsburg, home to the world’s second-most northern statue of Lenin (the first is in the now abandoned town of Pyramiden north of Longyearbyen).

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THE STUNNING POLAR WILDLIFE IN ITS NATURAL HABITAT

The vast majority of tourists visit Svalbard during the summer months when the sun never sets. In addition to seeing the many ancient glaciers and vast, craggy mountains, the main reason to visit the islands is to see the stunning polar wildlife in its natural habitat including polar bears, foxes, seals, walruses, orcas, humpbacks, belugas and puffins.

If you’re one of the more daring types, you may even want to consider taking a winter tour, since you’ll have a good chance to see the magical northern lights too.

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3 EUROPEAN ARCTIC DESTINATIONS FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLER

EASTERN GREENLAND Greenland rarely gets much of a mention as a holiday destination, but this autonomous country within the Danish kingdom offers a truly unique experience for the adventurous traveller. Home to less than 60,000 people, mostly of Inuit (Eskimo) descent, Greenland is by far the world’s least densely populated country, and even the capital city of Nuuk (Godthåb) barely has over 16,000.

The official language is Greenlandic, although

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Danish and English are both widely spoken.

While the vast majority of the few visitors who make the expensive and lengthy trip to this enormous island of over 800,000 square miles don’t go much beyond Nuuk in the west, the truly adventurous should consider going to the eastern reaches of the country.

An immense and desolate place that remains virtually unexplored by humankind, Eastern Greenland is home to only a handful of tiny settlements, the largest being Tasiilaq with its population of 2,000.

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TAKE ME WITH YOU TOP TO BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT: AN ICE ARCH CARVED BY THE WIND IN A GIANT ICEBERG, GREENLAND AN AERIAL VIEW OF THE MOUNTAINS AND FJORDS OF GREENLAND ATTENTION,POLAR BEAR CROSSING! ARCTIC NORTH POLE, SVALBARD.

OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: SHIPS AT THE KOLA GULF NEAR THE MURMANSK IN THE DUSK KIROVSK CITY ON KOLA PENINSULA, MURMANSK DISTRICT, RUSSIA.

In spite of being extremely isolated, Tasiilaq is quite accessible thanks to the small airport at the nearby town of Kulusuk. Being by far the largest settlement in the region, Tasiilaq serves as a great base for a summer trip of kayaking, hiking, skiing or boating, while during the winter months, you can go dog sledding or snowmobiling. You can also take a boat tour to see the towering icebergs and stop over at the abandoned village of Ikkatteq.

Ittoqqortoormiit, far further north and beyond the Arctic Circle, is an even more remote destination. The largest settlement for many hundreds of miles around, it still only has a population of around 500, and many of the smaller villages in the region are now abandoned. For nine months of the year, the sea is frozen solid, but the scenery is nothing short of stunning in any season due to the fact that the town is situated in the world’s largest and longest system of fjords.

Although some arctic cruises stop at Ittoqqortoormiit during the middle of the summer, most visitors arrive by plane from Iceland, and there are two flights every week during the high season, but only one per week in the winter.

FOR NINE MONTHS OF THE YEAR, THE SEA IS FROZEN SOLID

TASIILAQ SERVES AS A GREAT BASE FOR A SUMMER TRIP OF KAYAKING, HIKING, SKIING OR BOATING

KOLA PENINSULA Home to the world’s largest city north of the Arctic Circle, Murmansk, the Kola Peninsula is otherwise a cold and desolate region bordering Finland. Murmansk is the capital of the province of the same name, and it is famously home to Russia’s North Sea naval fleet due to the fact that the water remains largely ice-free throughout the year. While many consider Murmansk to be grey and dreary, the Kola Peninsula is also home to some spectacular nature and many smaller towns including Kola, Kirovsk, Kandalaksha and Severomorsk.

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3 EUROPEAN ARCTIC DESTINATIONS FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLER

KIROVSK, HOME TO THE NORTHERNMOST BOTANICAL GARDEN IN THE WORLD AS WELL AS A SMALL SKI RESORT One of the most famous and visited towns of the region is Kandalaksha, home to around 35,000. Nearby is a large nature reserve sporting enormous forests, lakes and a plethora of wild animals and birdlife. Being truly off the beaten track, however, there are few excursions available, making it the perfect destination for the independent and adventurous traveller. Places of interest within the town itself include the Local History Museum, the Nature Museum and the Stone Labyrinth among others. Another remote town, though quite large with a population of around 30,000, is Kirovsk, home to the northernmost botanical garden in the world as well as a small ski resort.

Murmansk itself is of interest to many tourists thanks to its novelty value, and it is surprisingly easy to get to. A large city with an infrastructure much like any other European city of equivalent size, it is also easily reachable by train from Saint Petersburg, though the journey takes up to thirty hours. Popular sites in Murmansk include the enormous Alyosha Statue, built to commemorate the Soviet arctic defence during the Second World War and the Nuclear Icebreaker Lenin, now permanently docked and turned into a museum ship.

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SEVEROMORSK, A CLOSED CITY OF SOME 50,000 INHABITANTS LOCATED 15 MILES AWAY FROM MURMANSK Those with an interest to visit the Kola Peninsula and the city of Murmansk may have also heard of Severomorsk, a closed city of some 50,000 inhabitants located 15 miles away from Murmansk. Head of the Russian Northern Fleet, there are extremely strict restrictions in place regarding who can enter the city, and even ordinary Russians need a special permit.

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MIND, BODY + SOUL

HELP ME WITH MY RAGGED PROBLEMS I recently became a mum and with it I developed a very bad anxiety problem. Not sure why this is happening to me! I guess you can say I am overwhelmed with everything. It doesn’t help that in Lebanon everyone wants to come check on the baby baring gift, which I am forever grateful – don’t get me wrong, but all these feelings are new to me. I am not a single mum, my husband works away part of the week and when he is gone my head is all over the place. I am finding it hard to do things alone and leave the house, fearing everything will go wrong or people will be judgmental.

Am I mad? Dunia, 28

DEAR DUNIA,

What you are going through is normal if you are a first time mum. You are not going mad, and from the sounds of thing you have a touch of the blues. It is very important to note that nothing prepares you for motherhood. You are told that being a mum is the best thing that can happen to you as women and a baby is the ultimate gift. Absolutely! Once the baby arrives you are obliged to put a smile on your face. In reality your whole life changes! The responsibility of having a baby – feeding, sleeping, well being, happiness and health is all yours. So don’t beat yourself up for going through all this. Take it one step at a time; you will eventually get to a stage where you are comfortable.

I’m 28 years old and my boyfriend is 31. I love him a lot and we are planning to get married in 2 years. The problem though is that since we have taken the step to commit, I have started to notice that he has huge trust issues and it takes its toll on our relationship. His ex-girlfriend was horrible to him on so many levels, so I do understand where he’s coming from, but I haven’t lied to him, hidden anything from him or basically done anything for him to lose his trust in me, yet our relationship is always on edge. All hell breaks loose when he gets angry and I don’t know how much more I can take of this kind of thing. I know our relationship is worth fighting for, but how do I make him see this? I’ve been honest with him about how I feel and what effect it’s having on our relationship, but he tells me it’s my fault that we’re like this and that I should put in the effort to make things right. Samar, 28

DEAR SAMAR,

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Make no mistake this is his issue, don’t let him manipulate you to thinking it’s your fault. I understand you love him, but everything in this relationship screams out not healthy. If he doesn’t admit he has issues then things will not change. He will eventually wear you down and take away every ounce off ‘fight’ you have in you and you will end up very lonely.

However, if you want to insist on this relationship you have to be really firm and explain to him that you are not his ex and you do not want to be compared to her. If you can try couple therapy then that would be great.

I really can’t see a way out for you, unless he starts to prove to you that he can change his behavior – that’s if he wants the relationship to work.

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I’ve recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m 54 and live alone as my children are at university. I feel incredibly lonely and scared about my illness as my mum died from the disease. I don’t want to burden my family, though, so I haven’t told them how I feel. It isn’t just the emotional isolation that’s hard. I’m struggling with practical things like cleaning the house. I’m having chemotherapy at the moment and when I get home I’m shattered.

Carine, 54

My girlfriend was in a marriage that did not last. They eventually got divorced but have a child together. I am worried that one day they will get back together. I totally understand that the have to be civil to each other because of the child. She always says that she is grateful he allowed her to keep the child as this is not always the case in Lebanon. What bothers me the most is that one night they hung out with a couple of their mutual friends and she didn’t even tell me that her ex-husband was there! I found out about it because one of their friends told me. Am I just being paranoid?

Karim, 32

DEAR CARINE,

You are fighting a really hard battle, one that you can win, but you need support. It’s hard enough without trying to be superwoman. You have to put yourself first and you have to seek your family’s support emotionally.

You need them! You can’t isolate yourself. Positive thinking is what you should be concentrating on. I know you say your mum passed away from the same disease, but there is so many elements to consider – like when were you diagnosed?

§

I’m a 21 year-old girl who lost a friend a year ago to cancer. I was not able to talk about it to anyone. Everyone mourned her death for a couple of days and then it was back to university, studies and work. I found myself fading into chronic depression and eventually the only relief I had was self harming. I would do it in places no one can see, so that I do not get asked questions. I stopped going out and stopped wanting to see anyone. Even with my I don’t sit with them if I am not forced to. Lana, 21

DEAR KARIM,

You might be being paranoid and their relationship could be completely innocent but what you need here is a bit of reassurance. She might not have told you that he was there because she knew it would upset you and didn’t think it was worth causing a row over. But that only works if you’re not found out! Naturally, because she’s kept it a secret from you, you’re jumping to all sorts of conclusions. You need to explain to her that while it’s fine for her to go out with her friends, if her ex is there you want to know about it. That is only fair.

I’M A 21 YEAR-OLD GIRL WHO LOST A FRIEND A YEAR AGO TO CANCER. I WAS NOT ABLE TO TALK ABOUT IT TO ANYONE

DEAR LANA,

The problem with depression is that everything snowballs so you reach a point where you can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. But the light is there. I am sure your family does care and you are loved very much but you can’t see that at the moment and they themselves are probably not sure how to reach out to you. You have to want the help. You have not grieved your friend. Have you tried to gather your friends together and do a memorial? They might be as well going through the same thing as you. Another option would be to seek counseling, therapy. You need to talk it through. Everything will be confidential and you will feel relief.

Absolutely nothing is worth ending your life for – you have a wonderful life ahead of you.

I divorced my wife three years ago after finding out she had been cheating. After a very acrimonious divorce, during which I was verbally and physically abused by my ex and her family, I have moved on. I am much happier these days working away and not worrying about my wife and who she’s with. However, even after three years and despite the fact my ex is still with the guy I caught her cheating with, she still insists on checking up on me every few days using my professional profile online. Both she and her father regularly check my professional pages to see what I’m up to. Why can’t they just let go? Sami, 40

DEAR SAMI,

She clearly has many issues that she has to deal with, but unfortunately you can’t force her to deal with them. It’s fantastic that you’ve moved on with your life and, if your ex and her family are checking up on you online, so what? If there’s no way of blocking them, don’t let them know it’s getting to you. At the moment, she doesn’t have the ability to move on and probably can’t get over the fact that you have. She’s bitter because you seem happier. Try to view her in a different light. What she’s doing is actually quite sad and, if you can find it in yourself to pity her rather than feel anger, then that might help. Concentrate on the opportunities you have in your life now you’ve moved on. Don’t give her the power to wind you up.

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

JUNKYARD A JOURNEY BY WAY FOOD AND ATMOSPHERE

BY KAYLYN HLAVATY PHOTOS MELISSA TABEEK

Situated in the trendy district of Mar Mikhael is one of Beirutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most innovative and eco-friendly spaces: The Junkyard. Walking through the narrow, dimly lit corridor towards the dining space is already a sensory experience, but once inside, this enchanting, colorful explosion of recycled materials has all the elements of a fine dining experience: delectable food, friendly staff and an ambiance that keeps you looking at every detail from floor to ceiling.

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The Junk Yard started as a pop up restaurant in the summer of 2012 with just one shipping container, mouth â&#x20AC;&#x201C;watering food and a demand by customers to expand it into a permanent space. Food aficionados were offered whatever was available and food preferences were up to the chef. People loved it so much that they requested Mario Haddad to open up a space that would be available all year round.

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JUNKYARD | A JOURNEY BY WAY FOOD AND ATMOSPHERE

After browsing both the food and drink menu, Haddad and British chef, Lee Purcell recommend Junkyard’s famous, signature drink called “Junkyard Fever”. When you think of a summer on an island, this is the version in a cocktail. The special ingredients are fresh lemon grass, passion fruit juice, lychee puree, and Absolut vanilla topped with Pommery brut champagne. This drink is among many signature drinks made with only fresh herbs and no simple syrups by the friendly mixologists at the bar.

The dishes following the drink almost looked too good to eat. First on the tasting testing agenda were the fresh, succulent salads.

As the name indicates, “The Superstar” is a salad of super food greens tossed with toasted pumpkin and sunflower seeds and drizzled with tangy balsamic dressing. This nutrient-rich salad doesn’t skimp on the flavor.

The broccoli and asparagus are blanched so they retain the flavor and crunchiness.

Haddad has been in the restaurant business for 17 years and is responsible for other successful Beirut hot spots such as Le Sushi, Al Falamanki and Mario e Mario.

Fast forward to two years later, 12 industrial shipping containers and a menu that keeps you coming back for more after each bite, The Junk Yard provides customers not just quality cuisine, but a transformative experience to the world of international flavors and ingredients.

THE MENU IS CHANGED ONCE IN AWHILE IN ORDER TO GIVE CUSTOMERS NEW FLAVORS AND EXPERIENCES Haddad avoided the traditional Lebanese cuisine route and went for an unconventional, sophisticated gastropub style cuisine that he coins as “gourmet street food.”

“I want to introduce the Lebanese to different palettes that you can’t find too often in Lebanon. The thing about street food is you can find it all over the world and each culture has their own signature street food so I thought why not take it to the next level and base the dishes off street food, but to focus on the use of quality ingredients and culinary techniques,” says Haddad.

The menu, recycled out of used paper, is meant to resemble a vintage newspaper column. The menu is changed once in awhile in order to give customers new flavors and experiences. Some dishes are creatively named based on up-cycled song lyrics such Rocket Man, Voodoo Child and Superstar.

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I WANT TO INTRODUCE THE LEBANESE TO DIFFERENT PALETTES THAT YOU CAN’T FIND TOO OFTEN IN LEBANON

This salad is suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike. The second salad, “The Mango Surprise” was an infusion of spicy, tangy and sweet flavors. The mangos gave a juicy texture and the cashews provided a nutty, wholesome flavor. To finish off this one of kind salad, a sweet chili sauce kept the palette excited and wanting more.

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

For the main courses, Chef Lee recommended a variety of fresh meats. The “Royale With Cheese” is a favorite among customers. While the burger is 56,000 LL, the dish is well worth every lira. It’s made with Australian grass-fed Angus sirloin and paired with a tomato relish. “Where are my prawns” are fit for any seafood lover. Cooked to tender perfection, these prawns are paired with a chunky, mango salsa. Last but not least, is the underrated, “What’s Beef” sandwich. This cured beef pastrami sandwich and beet root is tender and literally melts in your mouth. The horseradish coleslaw provides the extra kick to this classic dish.

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EXPLORE YOUR SENSES IN A SPACE MADE OF UNWANTED MATERIALS AND ONE BUILT A COMMUNITY’S DEMAND OF AUTHENTIC GOURMET STREET FOO Just when we thought we couldn’t get enough, the waiters brought out three scrumptious deserts: “The chocolate girl”, “Apple Bush” and “Lemon Pie” On the menu, under each desert, there is a proposed drink to pair each dessert with such as The Junkyard’s own take on the classics such as Brandy and Martinis. While each desert was different and delicious in its own way, my favorite was the “Apple Bush”. This take on the American classic was on another level of apple deserts. Instead of the typical crust, this pie was made with fine layers of fluffy puff pastry and infused with toffee and cinnamon coated apples. As the knife sliced through the pastry, every crunch was pronounced. It was finished perfectly with an indulgent scoop of cool vanilla bean ice cream.

From the walk through the corridor, to gazing in awe at every detail on the tables to the walls, The Junkyard is more than just a place to eat. It’s an experience to share organic, one -of -a-kind cuisine in the company of an eclectic vibe, a handcrafted cocktail and of course good family and friends. Don’t be shy. Explore your senses in a space made of unwanted materials and one built a community’s demand of authentic gourmet street food.

JunkYard Armenia Street, Facing the Bus Cemetery Mar Mikhael Mob: +96103945961

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE THE EXTRAORDINARY HEALTH BENEFITS OF INDIAN SPICES

If you think Indian food is not a healthy option, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re probably thinking of the thick, spicy curries and the high-fat desserts that are so popular around the world. In fact, if you choose wisely when dining out or cook your own Indian dishes, the health benefits of Indian cuisine are incredible. Here you can find out more about seven of the most common Indian spices and the medicinal benefits that each one provides.

GARLIC Garlic has long been renowned as a natural health remedy. Containing the chemical compound ajoene, garlic helps to thin the blood and can help combat cardiovascular disease. Containing high levels of vitamin B6, garlic is great for boosting your immune system and mood, and its volatile oils help to eject harmful bacteria from the body. Its antibacterial properties help to fight chest infections and coughs, and studies have also shown that a 600mg daily intake of garlic helps lower cholesterol levels.

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SPICE UP YOUR LIFE | THE EXTRAORDINARY HEALTH BENEFITS OF INDIAN SPICES

GINGER Ginger has played a role in ancient Indian medicine for centuries. It stimulates appetite, aids digestion, and helps prevent flatulence.

The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger are well known. In recent studies, the compound it contains - called gingerol - has been shown to relieve joint pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. Try infusing a few slices of ginger in boiling water as a drink to soothe the effects of a cold or cough. Ginger has also been found to combat motion sickness, and nausea during pregnancy.

CORIANDER SEEDS Coriander seeds are high in polyphenols, the same type of antioxidant you find in green tea and red wine. The seeds contain important fatty acids and essential oils responsible for a healthy digestive system, and they are also rich in dietary fiber and minerals like iron, copper, calcium, potassium, zinc, and magnesium.

Additionally, coriander seeds contain many vital B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, which plays a critical role in the body’s energy production and helps to support a healthy nervous system.

CHILI The chemical capsaicin found in the seeds and white membranes of chilis promotes the relaxation of the muscular walls of our blood vessels, temporarily reducing blood pressure. Capsaicin has also been associated with mood elevation, which could explain why some people love to eat spicy food. Chilis also contain high levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene, powerful antioxidants that may help in the fight against neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

TUMERIC The distinctive bright yellow spice of turmeric is due to curcumin, a compound that has considerable anti-inflammatory properties. In recent studies it was shown to help eradicate cancer cells and prevent dangerous genetic changes in healthy cells. Research has also indicated that curcumin can improve cognitive functions. In one study, the occurrence of Alzheimer’s in Indian adults aged between 70-79 was more than four times lower than the same group in the US.

CUMIN Native to the East Mediterranean and India, the cumin seed has been cherished by cooks and revered by healers for centuries. Recent research has looked into cumin’s ability to stimulate pancreatic enzyme activity necessary for nutrient absorption and healthy digestion. The oils contained within cumin have antibacterial, antioxidant, and cholesterol lowering properties.

Furthermore, cumin is a good source of magnesium, which helps keep blood pressure normal, bones strong, and the heart rhythm steady.

CINNAMON Made from the peeled, dried, and rolled bark of a Southeast Asian tree, cinnamon contains multiple essential oils that can help to reduce blood clots and stop various types of bacterial and fungal growths. Research has shown that smelling the cinnamon scent can actually improve memory function and visual-motor speed. The high fiber and calcium content of cinnamon can also help to reduce the risk of colon cancer and heart disease.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

Considering all the health benefits of Indian spices, no wonder there is growing scientific interest in their medicinal potential. As well as improving your physical health, they can also contribute to a healthier mind, so why not add more of these amazing spices to your diet, starting today?

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FESTIVE DINING FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

BY LARA ARISS

My kitchen is my own personal playground where I venture in to cook, eat, and unwind. It’s the perfect setting for recreation and creativity, for alchemy and adventure. Allow me to share what comes out of my kitchen – fun stories, simple ideas, and of course recipes that are lovely, straightforward, and fine-tuned. As you go through my blog you will find improvised recipes that have materialized with the meals, imagined and simmered in my head before they were tested and realized, and ones that have come to me from friends, family, and cookbooks.

All I know of cooking is that it mustn’t be a drag, with complicated recipes and exotic ingredients that are impossible to find. Cooking should be accessible and frank. A meal doesn’t have to be fancy and elaborate to look and taste amazing. The simplest recipes executed in the right way make for food that is quite simply divine. I like honest recipes that don’t deceive or disappoint. Whether improvised, imagined, or shared, the recipes found here are meant to make your adventures in the kitchen more fun. Look forward to knowing your thoughts.

The menu selection, check her out on the web http://www.keystomykitchen.com @keystomykitchen

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/keystomykitchen

@keystomykitchen

MISTLETOE AND WINE

EAT, DRINK+BE MERRY

CHESTNUT + DRIED CRANBERRY

APPLE STUFFING

PREPARATION TIME 30 MINUTES + COOLING TIME SERVES 10 - 12 LEVEL EASY

INGREDIENTS • 40 grams salted butter • 1 onion, finely chopped • 2 celery sticks, diced • 3 granny smith apples • 200 grams roasted chestnuts, roughly chopped • 150 grams dried cranberries • Zest of 1 orange • 50 grams walnuts, finely chopped • 1 tablespoon sage, finely chopped • 150 grams white breadcrumbs

METHOD

• Heat the butter in a large pan and gently cook the onion and

the celery for 10 minutes until softened. Place in a bowl and leave to cool. • Peel, core and dice the apples. Add the diced apples, chestnuts, orange zest, walnuts, dried cranberries, sage, breadcrumbs and salt and pepper to the cooled onion mixture and combine. • Set aside until ready to stuff the turkey.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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CHRISTMAS TURKEY PREPARATION TIME 15 MINUTES LEVEL MEDIUM

METHOD FOR A 6.5 KG TURKEY • Remove the giblets, which should be in the body cavity and weigh the turkey.

Place the uncovered turkey on a plate in the lowest part of the refrigerator. The night before, take it out of the fridge so that it will be at room temperature by the time you cook it. • Stuff the turkey with the pre-made Chestnut and Dried Cranberry-Apple Stuffing. Place about 2/3 of the stuffing in the neck end between the flesh and the skin, then tuck the neck flap under the bird’s back and secure it with a small skewer.

Place the rest of the stuffing in the body cavity. • Spread 175 grams of softened butter all over the bird and season with black pepper and salt • Arrange two large sheets of foil across your roasting tin, one widthwise and the other lengthwise. Lay the turkey on its back in the middle of the foil then loosely wrap it: the parcel must be firmly sealed but with room for air to circulate around the turkey. Place in a pre-heated oven at 220°C for 40 minutes then reduce the oven temperature to 170°C for 3 ½ hours. • After this time, remove the turkey from the oven, uncover it and discard any excess foil. Baste with the juices then increase the oven temperature 200°C. Cook the uncovered turkey for a further 40 minutes. • After the final 40 minutes, remove the turkey from the oven. Pierce the thickest part of the leg with a skewer then press the skewer against the leg to see if the juices run clear without any trace of pink– if the juices are clear, the turkey is cooked. You can also give the legs a little tweak– if they feel like they’ve got some ‘give’ in them, the turkey is done. Cover it loosely with foil and allow it to rest for approximately 45 minutes before serving.

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• Cooking times for other sizes of turkey 3.5 – 4.5 kg 30 minutes at the high temperature, then 2.5 – 3 hours at the lower temperature, then a final 30 minutes (uncovered) at 200°C. 6.75 – 9 kg – 45 minutes at the high temperature, then 4 -5 hours at the lower temperature, and then a final 30 minutes (uncovered) at 200C.

MISTLETOE AND WINE

EAT, DRINK+BE MERRY

RED WINE

BRUSCHETTA PREPARATION TIME 10 MINUTES COOKING TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 10 - 12 LEVEL EASY

INGREDIENTS • Juices from the roasted turkey • 240 grams butter • 12 tablespoons flour • 250 ml red wine • 750 ml turkey stock

METHOD

• In a saucepan, pour the juices from the roasted

turkey and add the melted butter and flour. Stir continuously until the mixture is browned.

• Gradually stir in the wine and then the stock.

• Allow the mixture to come to a boil and thicken slightly. • Strain into a jug and leave aside. • Reheat before serving.

CRANBERRY

SAUCE

PREPARATION TIME 10 MINUTES COOKING TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 10 - 12 LEVEL EASY

INGREDIENTS • 150 grams light muscovado sugar • 150 ml orange juice, fresh or from a carton • 375 grams pack fresh or frozen cranberries

METHOD

• Pour the sugar and orange juice into a pan

and bring to the boil. Stir in the cranberries and simmer until tender but still holding their shape.

• The sauce will thicken as it cools; bring to room temperature before serving.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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EAT, DRINK+BE MERRY

ROASTED POTATOES PREPARATION TIME 25 MINUTES COOKING TIME 90 MINUTES SERVES 10 - 12 LEVEL EASY

INGREDIENTS • 1.5 kg potatoes • Olive Oil • 3 sprigs rosemary • Salt • Ground black pepper

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METHOD

• Preheat the oven to 220°C. • Peel the potatoes and cut into large chunks. Boil

in boiling salted water for 5 minutes. Drain and toss in the pan to roughen the edges.• Put a generous amount of olive oil in a roasting tin and put in oven, until smoking. • Carefully take the tin out of the oven and add the potatoes to the hot fat, basting them as you do so. Sprinkle rosemary and season with salt and ground black pepper. • Put the tin back in the oven and cook for about 1 hour until the roast potatoes are golden and crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle. Turn them over from time to time whilst they are cooking to make sure they colour on all sides.

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STOLLEN PREPARATION TIME 90 MINUTES COOKING TIME 30 MINUTES SERVES 10 - 12 LEVEL EASY

INGREDIENTS • 100 ml warm milk • 2 teaspoons dried yeast • A pinch salt • 1 teaspoon caster sugar • 225 grams all-purpose flour + extra for dusting • Pinch of ground cloves • 102 teaspoon grated nutmeg • 1 teaspoon mixed spices • 200 grams sultanas • 25 grams flaked almonds • 50 grams unsalted butter • 1 egg, beaten • 250 grams marzipan TO FINISH • 25 grams butter, melted • 50 grams icing sugar

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

• In a large bowl, sift the salt, sugar, flour, mixed spice, cloves and nutmeg into a large bowl. • Add the sultanas, almonds, milk, yeast, and butter and mix well.

• Add the egg and stir well to make dough. • Knead the dough for 5 to 6

minutes. Cover and leave to prove for 20 minutes in a warm place or in the oven at 50°C. • Uncover the dough and turn out onto a clean, floured work surface. Using your hands knock the dough back to reduce the volume, then knead the dough for 3 to • minutes. • Push and roll the dough out by hand.

Weigh and divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. • Knead the marzipan until soft and cut into 12 equal parts. • Flatten the dough slightly and then put a chunk of marzipan in the center. Fold the dough around the marzipan and roll into a fine ball. Repeat with the rest of the dough and marzipan. • Place the balls on a greased baking tray side-by-side to form a circle. Cover and place somewhere warm to prove for one hour or in the oven at 50°C. • Preheat the oven to 180°C. • Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden-brown and cooked through. • To finish, remove the Stollen from the oven, brush with the melted butter and dust with icing sugar immediately. • Allow the stollen to cool and serve in slices.

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OUT + ABOUT

MADNESS IN BEIRUT THINGS TO DO THIS DECEMBER!

THE BEIRUT INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU’VE HEARD. THIS REALLY IS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR. GET READY FOR A LOT OF CHRISTMAS CHEER AND HOLIDAY SPIRIT AS WE GET READY TO COUNTDOWN THE FINAL MONTH OF 2014. THE ONLY THING THAT COULD MAKE THIS LIST BETTER? NOTHING. GO ENJOY YOURSELVES, AND SEE YOU IN 2015!

The Beirut International Arab Book Fair at BIEL, now in its 58th edition, is organized by the Arab Cultural Club and the Union of Publishers in Lebanon.

The fair will host dozens of parallel events, including seminars and lectures on a wide range of topics, fiction and poetry readings along with ceremonies to honor local writers.

DECEMBER 5 TO DECEMBER 14 | B10:00 A.M. TO 10:00 P.M. | +9611995555 | BIEL

CHRISTMAS MARKET IN BADARO For two days, the residential neighborhood of Badaro is bringing a much-needed breath of fresh air to the nightlife scene. See fantastic Christmas lights in a (gasp!) totally car-free atmosphere with a number of activities and events to keep you occupied for hours.

We’re talking about Santa’s village, a wine tasting session, handmade gifts, a flower market, fashion show, kid’s parade, a ton of food and so much more.

Just head down to Badaro from 10am to 11pm on December 6 and 7 for a whole weekend of fun and entertainment as you surround yourselves with the colors, sounds and smells of Christmas. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit.

DECEMBER 6 AND 7 | 10:00 A.M. TO 11:00 P.M. | MAIN STREET BADARO

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MATTEO EL-KHODR AT THE BEIRUT CHANTS FESTIVAL 2014 The only thing better than looking at Matteo el-Khodr’s gorgeous face, is listening to the countertenor’s incredible voice. The opera singer taught himself to play piano in his younger years and then began imitating the voices he heard on his grandparents’ old records: Carmen from Bizet, Violetta from La Traviata (Verdi), Leonora from La Forza del destino (Verdi), and so it went.

Get the rare chance to hear him perform live as part of the Beirut Chants Festival.

DECEMBER 17| 8:00 P.M. | SAINT LOUIS CAPUCHIN CHURCH FRANCE STREET DOWNTOWN

DHOUR SHWEIR CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 2014 The decorations are up, and there’s snow on the ground, all you need to do is show up for a good time. For the third year in a row, the Municipality of Dhour Shweir and Ain El Sindyaneh ¬are proud to present this joyful Christmas festival for all ages.

Some of the highlights include: wine tastings, Satnta’s workshop, live performances and fireworks.

FROM DECEMBER 6 TO DECEMBER 7| DHOUR SHWEIR

THE LEBANESE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA AT THE BEIRUT CHANTS FESTIVAL 2014

LIGHT UP THE WAY TO CHRISTMAS

The Beirut Chants festival is bringing back a novel set of holiday performances with 26 nights that celebrate Christmas and the holiday season. Through the years, it has become a tradition that allows a large audience to enjoy music and the Christmas atmosphere in Beirut.

Join them this December for an unforgettable holiday season filled with love and joy. For this performance, Daniele Rustioni will be conducting the Lebanese Philharmonic Orchestra with Francesca Dego on the violin.

Christmas in Beirut is cool, but Christmas in the Bekaa is even better. Hop in the car and head on a road trip to the village of Jib Jannine December 5 through 7 as Caritas Youth Office hosts an array of holiday activities including a karaoke night, Christmas decorations, Santa’s workshop and even a chance for kids to meet old Saint Nick himself.

Festivalgoers also have the option of purchasing Christmas decorations, wine, food and winter supplies (Moune’). All profits will go to helping the needy during this joyful season. Give a little, get a whole lot back.

DECEMBER 12 | 8:00 P.M. | +9611685055 | SAINT GEORGE MARONITE CATHEDRAL AMIR BACHIR STREET

DECEMBER 5 TO DECEMBER 7 | 5:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT | JIB JANNINE, WEST BEKAA

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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OUT + ABOUT

BEIRUT DOG WALKING EVENT Rarely do dog owners in Lebanon get a chance to bring their furry friends together for some group fun. Thanks to new efforts by the Dog Market collective, you and your dog can gain new four-legged friends and share in your love for animals during a safe walk through downtown Beirut. The event is open for dog owner and their dogs only. No pet turtles allowed.

DECEMBER 14 | 3:00 P.M. | GATHERING POINT IN FRONT OF VIRGIN MEGASTORE IN DOWNTOWN BEIRUT

EXPOSURE 2014 GROUP SHOW AT BEIRUT ART CENTER Let’s be honest, it doesn’t feel like December until the annual group show at the Beirut Art Center begins. Unlike previous editions of the exhibition, Exposure 2014 will be a curated exhibition that revolves around a specific theme. The theme of the show will be “under construction,” in reference to the participating artists and the early stage at which they are building their practice. It also refers to Beirut, a city in a continuous process of transformation.

Its landscape is regularly destroyed, rebuilt, and redrawn DECEMBER 12 TO FEBRUARY 17 | 12:00 P.M. TO 8:00 P.M. (CLOSED ON SUNDAYS)| BEIRUT ART CENTER | WWW.BEIRUTARTCENTER.ORG

ROSE HOUSE EXHIBIT Artist Tom Young is bringing new life to another one of Beirut’s forgotten gems. You’ve probably seen the “Rose House” atop a small hill overlooking the Corniche - right across from the Military Beach in Manara. As journalist Habib Battah reports, the building is likely slated for demolition after Fayza El Khazen - the building’s tenant - was asked to leave the premises. But Mr. Young is making it his mission to draw attention to the gorgeous old structure as he embarks on a month-long artist residency there.

The hope: that enough people can see the beauty old buildings like this bring to Beirut, and to potentially save it from future destruction.

OPEN UNTIL DECEMBER 31 | TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 11:00 A.M. TO 7:00 P.M. / FRIDAYS UNTIL 10:00 P.M. | THE ROSE HOUSE

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FIREWORKS IN DOWNTOWN BEIRUT ON NEW YEAR’S EVE Fireworks will explode in the air as Downtown Beirut celebrates the start of 2015, marking the end of another year in Lebanon.

On December 31, head to the streets of Nejmeh Square and the surrounding area to wish your friends and fellow countrymen a happy new year in our beloved capital.

DECEMBER 31 | 8:00 P.M. ONWARD | AL-AMINE MOSQUE, DOWNTOWN BEIRUT

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DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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ZODIAC FORECASTS FROM JONATHAN CAINER

JONATHAN’S THOUGHTS ON THE MONTHS OF DECEMBER AND JANUARY

KATE MOSS

WOODY ALLEN

Another year is nearly over. Are you feeling any wiser? While we all definitely gain more experience, the more time we spend on earth, that doesn’t always, translate into a calm, relaxed attitude or a sense of confident understanding. Yet key cosmic factors are changing this December. If the human race is on a journey towards greater maturity, the current cosmic outlook implies a collective ‘growth spurt’. And if that’s the direction we’re all going in this month, individually we must be heading there too! Which, in theory at least, suggests a less stressful holiday season than usual ahead!

Welcome to yet another New Year. It hardly seems believable that twelve months have gone by since the last one. Some people attribute this to a process they call, ‘the quickening’. They say, time is speeding up and we are all hurtling ever faster towards the future. Others say, that’s just a side-effect of growing old. Either way, we should be aware that 2015 brings a chance to change ingrained habits. If you are hoping to engineer a real revolution in your personal life or in your career, there is every possibility - and the process can begin right now.

SAGITTARIUS | November 23 - December 21

CAPRICORN |December 22 - January 20

JANUARY: None of us knows what we really want. We just think we do.

We get all caught up in our fancies and fantasies and we forget about their relationship to reality. Under some circumstances, it can be quite a pleasant experience to feel as if you want something. Indeed, a state of desirousness can be desirable. Some folk enjoy complaining more than they enjoy having their problems solved. Before you strive too hard to work a minor miracle in January, you had best check that your efforts really are being appropriately directed.

JANUARY: Would you like your life back in 2015? Or are you happy to keep it out on loan? Someone else seems to be doing a pretty good job of living it for you. They are making lots of interesting decisions on your behalf. Then there are all those circumstances that are seemingly beyond your control. They are not exactly reinforcing your sense of autonomy, either. If you leave things as they are, little may alter. But if you take a positive, proactive approach to a daunting situation in January, you can yet change everything for the better.

DECEMBER: If things are supposed to be getting better, how come you are still dealing with the same old dramas and difficulties? Haven’t you done everything within your power to resolve these? If you can think of another tack to take, try it. If you can’t, work on the assumption that your results are ‘in the pipeline’. They are going to make their way into your life as fast as they possibly can and, without being overly presumptuous, you should make preparations for their arrival. December may yet be full of delightful surprises.

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DECEMBER: It is one thing to look into the future and feel confused.

This is natural. The veil of time is hard to see through. Even astrologers find it hard to be sure of what lies ahead. It is another thing to feel uncertain about the past. If, when you look behind you, you see something murky and mysterious, you need to become clear about it. Events in December will help you gain a fresh perspective. Soon, you will understand much more about what has happened so far. And you will feel far happier as you approach the year-end.

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AQUARIUS

PISCES

January 21 - February 19 DECEMBER: What if one morning, the Sun just didn’t feel like rising? What if it stayed in bed saying, ‘I can’t be bothered today.

I shone too late, too bright, yesterday.’ What if it just put its head back under the cover of night and sank into a pillow of cloud? It wouldn’t. It couldn’t. Some things in this world are always there for us. They never let us down. In your heart now, regardless of all that’s crazy, you’ve got a sun that just can’t stop shining.

Events this December, will yet enable you to revel in the light of genuine, justified, hope.

February 20 - March 20 DECEMBER: We all love a good drama series on TV. We get right into it. We identify with the characters and imagine that their problems are our problems - even to the point where we can’t quite relax until we know what is happening to them next.

We are never quite so pleased to be starring in a soap opera of our own. Someone you are close to, though, is going through a difficult experience. You don’t have to help but you want to. That involves getting caught up in a drama. But it is one that will yet have a very fine outcome this December.

JANUARY: One slip, that’s all it takes. One error of judgement.

One lapse of concentration. One case of mistaken identity. One miscalculation. How easily could that turn into a catalogue of errors? And, while we are on the topic, how easily, too, can it do no such thing? Could you get clean away with it? Could it all work out just fine? It is, interestingly, much easier to anticipate trouble than to actually create it. Despite what you may now be thinking or fearing, there really doesn’t have to be any trouble at all in January 2015.

JANUARY: As we start 2015, you really need to make a decision quite quickly. If you do not, events will develop a momentum of their own, the path of least resistance will be taken, and your opportunity to change the course of history will be compromised.

Right now, you have power but it will evaporate from you rapidly if you do not use it. Maybe this does not matter. Maybe, secretly, you want things to proceed in the direction that they seem to be taking. If that is your desire, do nothing and relax. If not, it’s time to do something.

ARIES

TAURUS

March 21 - April 20 DECEMBER: Mars arrives this month in the part of your chart that governs all you hope for, believe in, aspire to and relate to. It makes you keenly aware of what you need more of - and less of.

It helps you see that everything is going to be all right after all.

You were not so sure of this for a while. You began to suspect that your drama had no end. But the light you can see at the end of your tunnel is not just the distant glow of a dragon’s fire.

I am not promising perfection in every way or an end to all your troubles but you will enjoy December!

April 21 - May 21 DECEMBER: ‘Your attitude, not your aptitude will determine your altitude.’ So said Zig Ziglar, the motivation guru. Attitude isn’t everything but it counts for a lot. In December, you may well have strong feelings about a particular matter. These are causing you to see problems where none need exist. Adjust your perspective.

Try not to care quite as much. Though passion can sometimes be a sword that hacks you a path through a jungle, it can also be the spade that digs you a hole. Just be calm and confident this month.

JANUARY:Even the greatest mind-readers can’t tell what we are thinking unless we are consciously striving to give out clues. Our secrets are always safe for as long as we want them to be safe. But for how long do we want that? Somewhere, deep within our human psyche, there’s an almost primeval urge to confess or at least to share the burden of carrying secret information. Don’t assume, in January, that anyone else knows what you know, and don’t feel obliged to say more than you feel it appropriate to say. Magic awaits you in 2015.

JANUARY: In 2015, there are some things you no longer have to put up with. You can, of course, continue to endure them if you wish. Or rather, if you don’t wish strongly enough to change the situation. If you do nothing - or make only a token gesture - you may never discover how easy it is to bring about a big difference.

Yet with just a little extra effort in January, you can begin to rid yourself firmly and finally of an unfair imposition. Something has been sapping your strength for too long. It’s now time to set yourself free.

GEMINI May 22 - June 22 DECEMBER: They say that, ‘If you want something doing, you should ask a busy person.’ Busy people are already in an efficient frame of mind. They are focused on ticking items on their ‘to do’ lists. If you slip a couple more points on to that agenda, they will hardly notice the difference. Has anyone applied that principle to you lately? Might you be running around, this month, dealing with issues that someone else ought to be taking responsibility for? Do as much as you like, as long as you do it wholeheartedly - but let enough be enough.

DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

JANUARY: ‘Necessity,’ they say, ‘is the mother of invention.’ In that case, surely, inspiration must be the father. There need only be a tiny spark, but without some inspiration, there will be no gestation.

If invention is a child, what happens to it when it grows up? Often, INvention becomes CONvention. We find you in this first month of a new year, toying with an idea that seems radical, even daunting in its daring. But the change that you are now capable of bringing about is one that is much needed and will prove most rewarding.

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FOR YOUR DAILY FORECAST AND MORE FROM JONATHAN, VISIT WWW.CAINER.COM

CANCER

LEO

June 23 - July 23 DECEMBER: If you want your life to be full of fortuitous coincidence, see yourself as an angler dangling a baited hook in the stream of serendipity. In this river every catch is a prize catch.

Even an old boot is a treasure to be gratefully reeled in. It will turn out to belong to someone who needs it back badly. Or it will prove to be a magic boot. Or somehow, it will turn out to have diamonds hidden in the soles. How do you distinguish the stream of serendipity from the ordinary river of life this month?

Just project into it your most positive expectation!

July 24 - August 23 DECEMBER: If there’s something you need to know, ask. If there’s something you don’t need to know, don’t ask! And if you’re not sure whether you need to know something or not... ask whether you need to know! Don’t, this December, ask someone who may have a vested interest in giving you an answer that suits their purpose more than yours. Ask the universe. Ask your highest ‘inner self’. Ask your intuition. If, this month, you direct your energy towards a goal that’s truly worth pursuing, you will yet get a result that’s really worth having!

JANUARY: When you have lost something, then you eventually find it, where does it turn out to be? Why... always, it is in the very last place you have looked! Quests continue until there is no longer any need for them. Dramas unfold until all the participants are tired of enacting them. But we can hasten the end of a stressful situation by refusing to play our part in it any more.

When we stop looking, fighting or fearing, others soon stop too.

A Full Moon at the start of January, helps you begin 2015 as it needs to go on. Bravely.

JANUARY: ‘When you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you...’ So goes the old song. But it is only partially true. The world may be smiling at you rather than with you. That smile may be the patronising smirk of someone who considers you to have been amused by an irrelevance. Or the fixed grin of an envious individual who wants to know what you are smiling about. Don’t stop smiling in January. But do try to detect the real reason behind a particular person’s questionable attitude. That will give you real power in 2015.

VIRGO

LIBRA

August 24 - September 23 DECEMBER: Much though we all strive to understand each other, we must accept that, ultimately, people are difficult to understand. We may be able to make sense of what others are saying but our efforts at comprehension would be helped if we remember that human motives and emotions are invariably illogical. Feelings can’t be easily explained. We just don’t know why we’ve got them and when we think we know, we are almost always wrong. As you seek deeper insight in December, look for it with your heart, not your head.

September 24 - October 23 DECEMBER: You are more popular than you realise. Also, more fortunate. Movie stars are not about to start throwing themselves at your feet just because your prospects are so positive. Nor will random bank managers start running towards you waving wads of cash. If you start taking a lot of stupid risks, there is no guarantee that a guardian angel will race to your rescue each time. But if you now hold, in your mind’s eye, a reasonable picture of what you would like to achieve this month, it is not so unreasonable to expect to attain this!

JANUARY: Some showbiz magicians must get so good at pulling rabbits out of hats that when they want a rabbit they don’t even think about heading for a farm, a field, or a pet shop. Presumably, they head straight to a clothing store with a hat stand. It’s the same with the folk who thrive on crisis. When they want to feel good, they don’t look for an easy opportunity, they look for a problem to solve. As you now start a New Year, you should ask yourself if you developed a habit of seeking only the most challenging way to solve a problem?

JANUARY: If your heart is in the right place, what does it matter where the rest of you is? If you’ve got kindness, compassion, innocence, enthusiasm, a desire to learn and a willingness to find the magic in each moment, how can you want anything else? And, in the unlikely event that you do want it, how can the universe possibly fail to provide it? Concentrate, in January, on doing what inspires you - and on helping someone else do what inspires them. This won’t guarantee you a smooth ride but it will help get your New Year off to the right start.

SCORPIO October 24 - November 22 DECEMBER: You are feeling more inclined to think things through and to acknowledge the existence of different points of view. You are also becoming increasingly aware of hidden opportunities; chances to make your life brighter and better that you have previously failed to spot. Explore these as fully as you can. You may need to talk yourself into a plan or proposition, but you will find, once you do fully believe in it, that others support and accept it quite naturally. The power you seek this month, is the power you already have.

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JANUARY: ’Look well to this day... for yesterday is but a memory and tomorrow is only a vision...’ This ancient Sanskrit poem still rings true. Strange, when we live in a world where today’s cutting edge insight is tomorrow’s discredited idea. But sound philosophies never date. Your key to success in 2015, involves dealing wisely with timeless issues. If you’d been living 5,000 years ago, you’d have come up against something much the same in essence. What would have been the right way then is still the right way this month.

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NEW + NOW SAIFI CROWN A UNIQUE PROJECT COMBINING MODERNITY AND HISTORY, AL MASSALEH REAL ESTATE LAUNCHES SAIFI CROWN RESIDENTIAL TOWER IN BEIRUT Al Massaleh Real Estate, a Kuwait based leading real estate development company, announced the launch of its latest state-of-the-art residential development, Saifi Crown; a 23 story building with reintegrated Roman ruins that were found and preserved within the edifice. Saifi Crown is located in one of Beirut’s most affluent districts; Saifi, andoverlooks both the Mediterranean coastline and Beirut’s skyline.The event was held under the patronage of his Excellency, Mr. Raymond Araygi, Minister of Culture, represented by Dr. Assaad Seif who highlighted the significance of these Roman remainsand the commendable effort and investment made

by Al Massaleh Real Estate to preserve them; adding to the country’s historical wealth.The launch event was also attended by Mr. Mohammad Saoud Al Wugayan the Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Kuwait in Lebanon, along with high profile business figures and representatives of the local media.

Commenting on this event, Al Massaleh Real Estate Chairman, Mr. Hamad Al Eisa, said, “At Al Massaleh Real Estate, we aim at making each new development an architectural monument, by constantly look into new designs that differentiate our projects from others, quality materials that ensure durability and longevity, and last but not least, prominent locations that enrich our land bank. design, and are showcased through the landscaped exterior and displayed at the entranceof the building. Residents of the Saifi Crown enjoy a museum like environment Massaleh has expanded regionally and now it operates in the Gulf, Middle East and Europe.

SABRE DEVELOPING TRAVEL SERVICES FOR EMERGING WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY TRIPCASE PROVIDES FLIGHT ALERTS FOR SAMSUNG SMARTWATCHES, ANDROID WEAR AND PEBBLE WATCHES Hot on the heels of showcasing its Google Glass prototype flight finder app at World Travel Market in London, global travel technology company Sabre has announced the next step in developing travel

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services that work across a number of wearable devices including smartwatches and Google Glass. The move reflects the company’s view that wearables will have a dramatic impact on the way consumers shop for and experience travel. Launched this week, TripCase, Sabre’s leading travel itinerary management app, is the first travel app of its kind to integrate with the highly-anticipated Samsung Gear S smartwatch. The integration allows the traveller to click the notification on the watch to open the TripCase app to the relevant place on the mobile device, and will include a click-to-call feature next month.

In addition, consumers using Android Wear devices and the Pebble and Pebble Steel watches can receive TripCase travel notifications directly to their wearable devices.

TripCase users wearing these smart devices will receive real-time flight alerts, gate changes and other travel information conveniently on their wrists at a time when minute counts. This initial integration lays the ground work for more advanced TripCase services to be accessible on wearable technology in the future. TripCase is on pace to manage more than 25 million trips in 2014. Researchers expect a large proportion of the population to embrace wearable computing in the near future as evidenced by the adoption trajectory of other technology advances like the smart phone and tablets.

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presents

THE ENCHANTED FACTORY On a magical Christmas night, the best-kept manufacturing secrets are revealed…

A choreographic rapture in which, as always at Dior, everything stems from flowers.

They come to life in profusion, multiplying and then metamorphosing into precious gifts.

Guided by the delicate glistening thread that leads to the cogs of creation, we take a dive into the fantastic universe of a house that sees life in gold.

Animated by on-going movement, the iconic bottles of J’adore, Miss Dior and Dior Homme seem to come to life before our very eyes.

Nail varnishes rush down an enchanted Big Dipper, bottles jostle each other on the assembly line, Rouge Dior lipsticks glide along conveyor belts and Dior Prestige whirls around, looping frenzied loops.

A clockwork dream, illuminated with gold and magic.

Dior know-how comes to life in a joyful dance, and reaches its radiant apotheosis above the roofs of 30 avenue Montaigne.

The final firework rains down a magical golden shower of J’adore bottles.

Dior, the dream-maker…

Life is gold.

Christian Dior Parfums - International Press Departement 6, rue de Marignan 75008 Paris Tél : + 33 (0) 1 49 53 85 00 Florence Ferracci-Letac - fferracci@diormail.com International Communication Director Jérôme Pulis - jpulis@diormail.com DEC 2014 | JAN 2015

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