Dear Maria
by Olabisi O’dunne.
TRAVEL
Explore South Africa’s 7 Most Popular Beaches
AIRPEACE NEWS
Air Peace’s Receives Second Brand New Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft
TRAVEL
HEALTH TIPS
London
The Best Ways to Exfoliate Your Skin… and what products to use
Contents Pg14 The Best Ways to Exfoliate Your Skin… and what products to use
Explore South Africa’s 7 Most Popular Beaches
Will you need a COVID-19 'vaccine passport' to travel
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Dear Maria
by Olabisi O’dunne.
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Air Peace’s Receives Second Brand New Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft Pg28 Pg21
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London
A STAND AGAINST GENDERBASED VIOLENCE
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Pg23 COVID-19 Vaccination: Air Peace Pilots, Cabin Crew and other critical personnel get the jab!
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Dear Maria
by Olabisi O’dunne.
TRAVEL
Explore South Africa’s 7 Most Popular Beaches
AIRPEACE NEWS
Air Peace’s Receives Second Brand New Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft
TRAVEL
HEALTH TIPS
London
The Best Ways to Exfoliate Your Skin… and what products to use
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Welcome
Chairman’s Message
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Explore South Africa’s 7 Most Popular Beaches As the world is opening up again, here are seven of South Africa’s most popular beaches set in beautiful locations with amazing mountain views with resident penguin colonies that are relatively accessible to travellers and locals who can’t wait to return to having some outdoor fun.
By Joyce Icheokolo If you love going to the beach, then you know that sometimes, the secret to happiness can be found next to the ocean. Sand between your toes, salty ocean breezes, the melodic sound of ocean waves crashing at the shore are just some of the few ingredients for a perfect coastal escape. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that South Africa is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Africa owing majorly to her coastline which stretches for an astounding 1,770 miles. And these beaches have brought generations of family and friends together for picnicking, family time or quiet contemplation with a view of the waves. Though for many, the past year has been devoid of beach trips as a result of the COVID-19 protocols set in place, but following the advent and rapid deployment of vaccines Alice 10
across the world, more and more economies are opening up, and the outdoorsy person now has the opportunity to explore nature’s unlimited beauty. As the world is opening up again, here are seven of South Africa’s most popular beaches set in beautiful locations with amazing mountain views with resident penguin colonies that are relatively accessible to travellers and locals who can’t wait to return to having some outdoor fun.
Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth
1.Camps Bay Beach Catch the sunset while grabbing a drink in one of the bars on the strip of the gorgeous Camps Bay Beach just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Cape Town. Its stunning scenery is not like anywhere else in the world; with the stretch of sand and waves on one side of the coastline and the looming tower of the Twelve Apostle rock formations on the other hand. Its deceptively cold turquoise blue waters come straight from Antarctica. A favourite beach spot for swimsuit clad sun worshippers in the summertime.
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s 2 Muizenberg Beach
3. North Beach, Durban
This surfing hot spot in the south peninsula of Cape Town, popular for its colourful changing cabins is home to tons of surf shops, awesome views, and cool restaurants. Situated where the shore of the Cape Peninsula meets the False Bay coast, Muizenberg Beach fondly called “Muizies” by the locals have become the perfect photo spot to the delight of ‘Instagramers’. The water here shelves gently and the calm waves makes it the perfect spot for learning how to surf, especially for those travelling with young family members. The water temperature is also great for a pleasant swimming experience as it can go as high as 50°F over its neighbouring beaches.
Situated on the north of the Harbour and Bluff on Durban’s Golden Mile, this king of holiday beaches is a delight for bodyboarders, beach bums and skaters. With a number of restaurants in its immediate vicinity and facilities for paddle ski, skateboarding, surfing, bodyboarding and plain swimming and sun bathing, the North Beach is an ideal holiday destination, little wonder it is flooded by holidaymakers and tourists during the festive season. The beach is also protected by a series of shark nets and patrolled by life savers making it a safe space for visitors. The piers on this beach stretches way into the ocean offering an amazing boardwalk experience.
4 Clifton 4th Beach Situated in one of the most affluent areas of Cape Town, Clifton 4th Beach is the most popular among its other three sister beaches, Clifton 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. Clifton 4th is the only of the four to have Blue Flag status, which is only awarded to beaches that meet high environmental and quality standards and great for VIP sunbathing. Surrounded by trendy bars and cafes, making it the perfect spot to relax and watch the sun set both in the summer and winter while sipping on a cup of coffee. The Clifton 4th with its glittering white sand and surrounding mountains gives off a picture-perfect scenery. However, because Clifton is located on the Atlantic side of Cape Town, its waters are usually icy cold all year round.
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Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth
5 Umhlanga Beach, Kwazulu-Natal Just north of Durban, this peaceful paradise is the perfect place to watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean. With long stretches of soft golden sand met by sparkling blue water, the beach promises beauty and tranquillity. Umhlanga beach is a popular coastline spot for locals and a favourite holiday destination for tourists and this could be as a result of the great restaurants and hotels perched almost on the beach. The Umhlanga Lighthouse is also in the vicinity and remains a huge landmark attraction. Umhlanga beach is known for its paved walkway and safe swimming waters, making it ideal for families with small children or for those that are wary around the ocean. It is also one of the seven Blue Flag beaches within the province, a title it carries proudly as it can only be awarded to beaches with clean, safe and aesthetically pleasing environment. The pier at Umhlanga was voted the most beautiful pier in the world by CNN, and if you visit in the nighttime, you will definitely see why Alice 12
TRAVEL NEWS
Umhlanga beach is 6 Umhlanga Beach, Kwazulu-Natal known for its Dolphin’s Beach is the haven for paved walkway water-sports experts. Situated within Jeffreys Bay which is also and safe swimming known as the surf capital of South Africa, it is a popular spot for wind waters, making it and kite surfing due to its exposed location. Dolphins frequent the shallows of Jeffreys Bay all year ideal for families round, hence its name. Whales also the area from July to with small children frequent September. The waterpark, mini golf course and surf schools make or for those that this a popular family haunt during the holidays. And the sheer number are wary around of activities that goes on around this beach has brought with it an the ocean abundance of restaurants and cafes, so you are sure to never go hungry on your day out with the waves
“the Windy City” are hugely popular with sailing enthusiasts as the beach provides the best boardsailing conditions in the world. Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth
7 Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth Port Elizabeth is known for its wealth of stunning beaches and Hobie Beach is one of the best. This is unarguably so as a result of its proximity to popular restaurants, hotels and the casino. The beach boasts of ablution facilities, attractive picnic spots, a large children’s playground and trained professional lifeguards during the summer season. The flat beaches of “the Windy City” are hugely popular with sailing enthusiasts as the beach provides the best boardsailing conditions in the world. Scuba diving enthusiasts can also explore ship wrecks and coral reefs amidst sub-tropical fishes in its warm waters.
Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth
Whether you’re looking for the best waves, the most secluded tanning spot, or the best scenic boardwalk, South Africa spills with coastal beauty enough to keep every type of traveller entertained. So, take the time out with our list in hand to plan your next beach trip. Alice 13
The Best Ways to Exfoliate Your Skin… and what products to use Here are suggestions on ways to exfoliate your skin and the right exfoliants for your skin type By Mariam Kadiri
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xfoliating your skin will help you shed it in order to help eliminate old dead skin cells to uncover the new skin underneath and to promote blood circulation to skin thereby increasing the amount of collagen that your skin produces. And we all know that collagen promotes a softer and more youthful skin; without collagen, your skin will basically fall apart. Practically every part of your body can profit from exfoliation. Dead skin cells are supposed to fall off on their own in order to make way for the new skin cells being created on a daily basis but most times they remain where they are and cause some skin issues. Skin issues like dull skin, discolouration, white or black head and in some cases, they can cause a skin break out.
Here are suggestions on ways to exfoliate your skin and the types of exfoliants to use for your skin type. What are exfoliants? Exfoliants are rough textured products used to scrub the skin in order to remove dead skin cells and other impurities from the skin. Exfoliants help create a smoother, softer, and healthier skin and a brighter complexion. An exfoliant doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. In fact, many natural products that you can easily find in your kitchen are best for exfoliating your skin because of the absence of chemicals in them. Some natural exfoliants include: 1. Baking soda 2. Finely ground sugar 3. Coffee grounds 4. Finely ground almonds 5. Oatmeal 6. Finely ground sea salt 7. Glove sponge The listed exfoliants may be combined with other natural products to create the best scrub for your skin. Examples of the natural products that you can combine with any exfoliant include: 1. Honey 2. Green tea or chamomile tea 3. Coconut oil 4. Olive oil
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5. Sweet almond oil How best to exfoliate your face The best exfoliants to use on your face should be very fine-grained with small even particles; this is because your face is the most delicate part of your body. It is best not to over-exfoliate your face. Exfoliating too often can strip the skin on your face of its natural oils, make it really dry (you don't want this) and lead to breakouts. So, the best you can do for the skin on your face is to scrub your face 2-3 times a week. Best natural exfoliants for the face include: 1. Baking soda 2. Very finely ground oatmeal 3. Cinnamon 4. Glove sponge
HEALTH TIPS
5. Facial scrub recipe
Natural Honey
Baking Soda
Acne prone skin: For skin suffering acne or prone to acne, the best products to use are baking soda, honey and lavender essential oil (to help heal the inflammation faster). This facial scrub recipe has antiinflammatory and oil-reducing ingredients, and is well suited to acne-prone skin. Ingredients 1. 2 tbsp. baking soda 2. 2 tsp. honey 3. 1/2 tsp. vitamin E oil 4. 2 drops of tea tree oil 5. 2 drops of lavender oil Directions Put all the ingredients in a mixing bowl, and thoroughly mix them together.
Cinnamon
Oats
After washing your face, apply the scrub mixture to your skin with clean fingers. Use light, circular motions with your fingertips to smoothen the scrub all over your face. Continue the gentle, circular motions for 1-2 minutes. Allow the scrub to sit on your skin for an additional 2 minutes. Rinse the scrub off your face with lukewarm water. Normal skin: For a normal skin, you can use any of the exfoliant listed above and mix with any other natural product listed above. And if you only have a bottle of coconut oil or virgin olive oil, you can pour it on your glove sponge and scrub your face in gentle circular motions for about two minutes. Leave on your face for two more minutes and rinse with cool water.
How best to exfoliate your body Since the skin on your body is thicker and less delicate than the skin on your face, you can use slightly coarser exfoliants.
Best natural exfoliants for the body include: Ground brown sugar Coffee grounds Oatmeal Ground sea salt (do not use this if you have a cut on your skin) Body scrub recipe Sugar body scrub This body scrub helps soften your skin. This scrub is great to use in the shower or bath once the warm water has already softened your skin. Ingredients 1/2 cup coconut oil or jojoba oil 1/2 cup grape-seed oil 1 tbsp. brown sugar (finely ground) 2 chamomile tea bags Directions Combine all the ingredients and mix properly (empty the tea bags), and mix until everything is well blended. Apply the scrub all over your body using gentle circular motions, but be sure to avoid your face. Once you’ve finished applying the scrub, rinse it off with lukewarm water. Sea salt scrub If you like, you can add essential oils of your choice to this sea salt scrub for a more luxurious experience. Ingredients 1/2 cup ground sea salt 1/2 cup of coconut or olive oil 3 drops of any type essential (I recommend lavender or chamomile) Directions Combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix until well blended. While in the shower or bath, apply the scrub to your body using gentle circular motions, but be sure to avoid your face. Rinse well.
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Will you need a COVID-19 'vaccine passport' to travel … Here's what they are and how they might work
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Here are some key questions about the health credentials: What is a vaccine passport? It is documentation that shows a traveler has been vaccinated against COVID-19 or recently tested negative for the virus that causes the disease. The information is stored on a phone or other mobile device that the user shows to airline employees and border officers. However, the US government and others want a paper version available, too.
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It is not clear, however, whether any of the passports under development will be accepted broadly around the world, and the result could be confusion among travelers and disappointment for the travel industry.
Who is designing them? The trade group for global airlines, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is testing a version it calls Travel Pass. IBM is
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ome airlines and others in the travel industry are throwing their support behind so-called vaccine passports to boost pandemic-depressed travel, and authorities globally (Especially in Europe and the America) could embrace the idea quickly enough for the peak summer vacation season. Technology companies and travel-related trade groups are developing and testing various versions of the vaccine passports, also called health certificates or travel passes.
developing another, called a Digital Health Pass. There are several other private-sector initiatives. Some countries are getting involved and using the passports beyond air travel. Israel is using a new “green passport” to ensure that only people who have been vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 can attend public events such as concerts. Denmark expects to launch a pass that will let vaccinated people travel with fewer restrictions. Why do travel companies want vaccine passports? International air travel collapsed during the pandemic as countries imposed restrictions such as quarantines or outright bans to curb the spread of the virus. Airlines are counting on vaccine passports to persuade governments to drop some of those restrictions. “The significance of this to restarting international aviation cannot be overstated,” said Alexandre de Juniac, CEO of IATA.
Vaccine passports would be most common on international flights. Some countries already require proof of vaccination for diseases such as yellow fever, and the United States now requires a negative coronavirus test to enter the country, so a digital health passport isn’t much of a leap. Operators of hotels that depend on international visitors are also eager to see the passes adopted. The IATA tested its app recently on a Singapore Airlines flight to London. A passenger put a digital version of his passport, coronavirus test results and travel restrictions at his destination on a mobile device. Where would vaccine passports be required? Vaccine passports would be most common on international flights. Some countries already require proof of vaccination for diseases such as yellow fever, and the United
NEWS
States now requires a negative coronavirus test to enter the country, so a digital health passport isn’t much of a leap. What are the risks of a vaccine passport programme? The available COVID-19 vaccines are most effective at preventing serious illness, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility that vaccinated travellers could still spread the virus. “I think we have enough evidence right now to say that these vaccines cut transmission, that vaccinated people are much less likely to transmit the disease,” says Ashish Jha, dean of the public health school at Brown University. “How much? We don’t know.” He estimates it’s about 80%. Would a vaccine passport programme be fair? Some critics say travel certificates would primarily benefit people in wealthier countries and relatively affluent people within each country – those who are mostly likely to be
vaccinated quickly and most likely to have smartphones. “It’s going to be the wealthy, the privileged, who are going to get to fly around, and other people won’t have access to that,” says Lisa Eckenwiler, who teaches health ethics at George Mason University. She sees a particular potential for unfairness if health passes expand to workplaces and schools. Are vaccine passports at risk for a data breach? Consumers will be nervous about sharing health information that might get hacked or exposed in a breach, says Stephen Beck of management consultancy cg42. “When it comes down to it, people are going to ask themselves: Is sharing sensitive information worth the trade-off for a leisure trip?” he says. “And for many, the answer will be no.”
Is sharing sensitive information worth the trade-off for a leisure trip?” he says. “And for many, the answer will be No.”
the information wouldn't be stored in a central place. From David Koenig of Associated Press
IATA and IBM say that their passes use blockchain technology and that Alice 17
A STAND AGAINST GENDERBASED VIOLENCE Issues related to alarming increase in Gender-based violence, especially COVID19 pandemic lockdownsinduced intimate partner abuse and measures to curb these ills were in focus at an International Women’s Day Conference in Abuja
By Olu Ayo
A side the debilitating consequences on lives and livelihoods, one of the negative consequences of COVID-19 pandemic as noticed globally is the increase in domestic violence, especially lockdown-induced gender-based abuses. It was therefore not a surprise that this vexatious issue was a major topic of discussion at events held to mark this year’s International Women’s Day, IWD, across the world. In Nigeria, Project We Survived 1, an advocacy group with a mandate to empower survivors of intimate partner violence brought prominent Nigerians, including survivors of gender abuse and violence together for its Women Arise Conference 2.0 where the issue of alarming increase in gender abuse, intimate partner violence that have accompanied the pandemic and the measures needed to combat these crimes were in focus. The conference held at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton, Abuja on March 8, the date set aside for the annual celebration of IWD globally. The conference was the culmination of a series of activities, including advocacy campaigns and enlightenment in schools, markets and some communities on issues related to domestic and gender violence by Project We Survive 1. The conference was convened by the trio of Ebimoboere Timi Alaibe Elezieanya, Dr. Chioma Elezieanya and Roselyn Okon – all founders of Project We Survive 1, with the
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The conference held at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton, Abuja on March 8, the date set aside for the annual celebration of IWD globally. The conference was the culmination of a series of activities,
NEWS
theme: Women In Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID -19 world. Welcoming participants to the conference, Mrs Alaibe Elezieanya recalled that Project We Survive 1 was established out of the need to create awareness on the issues of intimate violence, counsel and provide shelter and trauma care for the victims when needed. The ultimate goal, she said, was to empower women who have suffered one form of domestic violence or the other to be able to get back on their feet; hence, the NGO also conducts empowerment trainings for victims of gender abuse. To achieve these, Project We Survive 1 is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, NAPTIP, Police, the FCT Sexual and Gender based Violence Team among others. “Women are the bedrock of the community. If you brake one woman, you have broken a community,” she said of the necessity of the work of the NGO. Speaking in the same regard, Roselyn Okon, a victim of gender abuse herself and a co-founder of Project We
Survive 1 noted that the first Arise Women conference was held on August 2020 in the tick of COVID-19 pandemic. She added that the conference which was held virtually in line with the demands of the pandemic was attended by Dame Pauline Tallen, the Minister of Women Affairs as well as the Presidents of International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, the National Council of Women Society among others. Okon who also narrated her experience with gender violence noted that the NGO was able to tell women to stand their ground against every form of abuse even in the face of the pandemic at the conference. While delivering the goodwill message of former Minister of Women Affairs, Iyom Josephine Anenih at the conference, Dr Tonia Ashiedu, a former commissioner in Delta State commended the organizers of the conference for the choice of the subject for discussion, while paying tribute to women who have contributed to national development over the years. Beyond the issue of domestic violence and gender Alice 19
abuse, Dr Ashiedu noted that despite their contributions to the development of the country over the years, the representation of women at various levels of government is still very small. “Nigerian women have done well in sustenance of democracy in the country. They have contributed to economic growth of this country and yet their participation in government and decision making has not been commensurate,” she said. On why there should be more women in leadership position, Dr Ashiedu said, “women are efficient, caring, disciplined, gracious, reliable, punctual, morally sound, multi-focused and natural implementers,” while she warned that no reliable progress can be made in any society without uplifting the status of women. However, she added that she was delighted to note that there are moves being made at various levels of government to mainstream gender issues into development planning in Nigeria, including progressive increase in number of women appointed into positions in government. She also recommended measures that can be implemented to improve the number of women appointed into leadership positions as well as on how women can improve themselves. Mr Bobo Oyeyemi, the Corps Marshall, Federal Roads Safety Corps, FRSC, who was represented by Sabina Musa said the road traffic agency has zero tolerance for gender abuse and violence. She revealed that the FRSC has a Counseling and Guidance Unit for counseling any member of its staff who may have suffered abuse. The IWD event also featured discussions on the societal approach to issues of gender violence from the religious, family, media and the victims’ perspectives in sessions moderated by Chioma Elezieanya. Some of the participants at the different plenary sessions included Pauline Ugbodaga, Executive Director, DAAR Communication, Jake Epele, a human right activist and expert in policy development and activist, Wale Jana, businessman and CEO of Sapphire Scents as well as representatives of respected Catholic priests, Father Alice 20
Dr Ashiedu said, “women are efficient, caring, disciplined, gracious, reliable, punctual, morally sound, multi-focused and natural implementers,”
George Ehusani and Cardinal John Onaiyekan. Participants at the different plenary sessions identified reasons for increase in cases of gender violence as well as the roles the family, religion and the media can play in reducing the scourge. Also, a partnership between Jana’s Sapphire Scents and Project We Survive 1 geared towards raising funds for provision of shelter for victims of gender abuse was unveiled at the event. Participants also pledged to be part of those working to end the scourge of gender abuse in Nigeria while awards were presented to some of those who have been supporting the work of Project We Survive 1.
AIRPEACE NEWS
Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, initiated a 14-day Easter campaign tagged Random Acts of Love, intended to appreciate its customers by giving them numerous gifts inflight The Random Acts of Love, which officially kicked off on Sunday, April 4, 2021, entails the placement of gift cards in random seat pockets and during the flight, passengers are told to check the seat pockets in front of them to know if they have won a gift or not. Passengers stand a chance to win gifts such as Thermo water-flask, Food flasks, Diaries, Umbrellas, Notebook Bottle, Remote organisers and Free HMO (Health Maintenance Organisation) cards. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Barr. Allen Onyema, on one of the #RandomActsofLove flights, assured passengers of the airline’s commitment to a memorable customer experience, while also expressing his gratitude to all customers for their continued patronage since inception. The Random Acts of Love campaign has been widely commended by the flying public and has scaled up Air Peace’s positive share of voice and favourable conversations about the brand.
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If you are tired of your homemade culinary adventures and looking to check out the new spots that commenced operations in the wake of the ease of the lockdown in Abuja, then check out one of these 10 restaurants and lounges
By Chinyere Kanu. If there is one city that has been looking forward to an end to the pandemic-induced lockdowns and restrictions, if only to accentuate its growing reputation as not just Nigeria’s political hotbed but also its bourgeoning entertainment and fun hub, it is Abuja, the beautiful Federal Capital of Nigeria. While some operators within the food and restaurant sector in Abuja had to close down at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, others were forced to re- strategize their modus operandi in order to adapt to the changing pandemic context. There were more restaurants moving towards delivery-only option and others adopting different innovative
4Guys 4Guys is an upscale restaurant located on the popular Adetokunbo Ademola crescent in Wuse 2 offering Japanese, Chinese and Italian cuisine in a simple, dark and well-designed space. They are known for their Teppanyaki (a Japanese style of cooking and grilling on a steel or iron surface) in their large open kitchen space with the chef performing different tricks to keep their customers entertained. Armed with welltrained staff, a distinct menu and preventive COVID-19 policy, 4Guys is set to deliver delicious meals with a quick turnaround on order time but at a decent price. Alice 22
ideas such as the sale of meal kits for their best sellers, private dining experience, offering meal subscription services for a period of time, selling and distributing specially packed signature spices and sauces or selling bulk meals of staple dishes such as rice meal or a variety of local soup delicacies. With the gradual ease of lockdown albeit with stringent guidelines from the Nigeria Centre for Disease control (NCDC) and Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), there has been an increase in the number of new restaurants popping up within and outside the municipal area of Abuja. Many of these new restaurants have adopted these
guidelines and have the advantage of starting their operations post lockdown, which has given them the opportunity to sort out the ergonomics of their restaurant in light of social distancing and employee safety and then focusing on sanitary measures and staff trainings to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus within their establishments. So, if you are tired of your homemade culinary adventures and looking to check out the new spots that have been operating since the ease of the lockdown, then check out one of these 10 restaurants and lounges below;
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Kapadocia Restaurant If you have ever wondered what it feels like to dine inside a cave, Kapadocia provides you the closest thing to that. Inspired by the Turkish city of Capadoccia, Kapadocia offers a unique fine dining experience in a cave-esque design decorated with lanterns hanging from the ceiling and a crafty wall displaying their selection of wines. Reservations must be made to dine at the restaurant and it is located at 2 Kinda Street, Wuse 2.
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Bombay 2 Beirut Bombay 2 Beirut (or B2B for short) combines the best of both Indian and Lebanese cuisines and comes from the popular Cilantro Restaurant Family. Located on Cape town street Zone 4, Wuse District, B2B offers a huge space with a contemporary designed restaurant and a rooftop and outdoor seating area providing a view of the Abuja skyline. They offer freshly made Mediterranean cuisine with impeccable service.
Taj Bistro Located at 1 Atabara street Wuse 2 Abuja, Taj Bistro is a modern beautiful restaurant with an aesthetically pleasing ambience. The restaurant provides an open kitchen where you can catch your food prepared right in front of you. It also offers different spaces such as a bar and a hookah lounge to cater for your needs and allow for social distancing as well as a private dining room for mini parties and events. Their menu is extensive with provision for all day breakfast. However, their food is quite pricey so be ready when you visit.
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The Council If money is not an option for you, then the Council is one place to check out. Located at the rooftop of the popular British Council on Ibrahim Babangida Way, Maitama, The Council provides an enormous beautifully designed and decorated space offering restaurant, lounge and bar services that provide both Nigerian and Intercontinental dishes with beautifully presented drinks and cocktails. The Council comes alive in the nighttime especially the lounge area; however, be ready to spend as their offerings are on the high side, cost wise.
Brook Lounge The design and outlay of this restaurant scream luxury. The Brook Lounge is classy, aesthetically pleasing and tastefully furnished that anyone dining would almost forget they are still in Nigeria. They offer an extensive menu, which include continental and Nigerian meals. Brook Lounge is located at Tropic Galleria Mall in the Central Business District of Abuja.
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Eden By Wingist Inspired by the Garden of Eden, the restaurant describe itself as a “hub for fun-loving people who desire a chic drinking and dining experience.” A sister company from the staples of the Wingist Network, the restaurant is designed with beautiful floral-filled greenery and creative metal work on the outside along with some private cabanas and then a sophisticated and plush interior on the inside. The restaurant offers a variety of appetizers and main dishes that are great for sharing. Eden by Wingist is located at 24 Port Harcourt Crescent, Garki Abuja.
Sequence Lounge Do not be fooled by the name as this lounge offers delicious well-plated meals that would rival any restaurant in the city. The lounge is designed with beautiful woodwork and predominantly features booth seating with tons of ceiling light bulbs that give it a groovy feel. They also offer Karaoke twice a week for those looking to let out some notes after a glass of mojito. Sequence lounge is located at 4 Salt Lake Street, Maitama.
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The Six by Lovitoz If you are still scared of dining out and would rather have a private dining experience, then look no further. The Six by Lovitoz as the name suggests, provides a luxury private dining experience for no more than six guests at a time. The restaurant offers set menus that can also be customized which can cater for at least 2 guests and is perfect for small parties, business meetings or private intimate celebrations with your loved ones. Bookings must be made at least a day before and the restaurant is located on Anthony Enahoro street, Utako, Abuja.
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Air Peace’s Receives Second Brand New Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft The brand new aircraft, christened Nnenna Onyema, landed in Abuja, Nigeria, at 1:55pm on March 18, 2021 and was welcomed with a majestic water cannon salute
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ursuant to its fleet and route expansion mission, West-Africa and Nigeria’s largest air carrier, Air Peace, on March 18, 2021 took delivery of another of its thirteen (13) preordered Embraer E195-E2 aircraft at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.
The brand new aircraft landed in Abuja, Nigeria, at 1:55pm and was welcomed with a majestic water cannon salute to the joy of many stakeholders who were on ground to receive the aircraft 5N-BYG christened Nnenna Onyema. It could be recalled that in January, renowned aircraft manufacturer, Embraer, delivered the first of the 13 pre-ordered E195-E2 aircraft to the Chairman of Air Peace, Barrister Allen Onyema and members of the airline’s board and management at a colourful event that was also witnessed by Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Mallam Hadi Sirika, State Governors, Members of the National Assembly and ranking officials of the Federal Airports Authority (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Nigeria Airspace Management Management Agency (NAMA), among others. The acquisition and deployment of the new E195s are a part of Air Peace’s plans to grow within Africa and launch long-haul routes to Asia, North America, and Europe. The carrier is doggedly pressing forward with its long-haul ambitions in spite Alice 28
of huge setbacks necessitated mainly by the COVID-19 pandemic. Upcoming destinations include Mumbai, Tel Aviv, London, and more as its fleet expands. For now, the airline operates the Lagos-Sharjah (UAE) long haul route. Air Peace is consolidating on its recently launched Lagos – Johannesburg route. At a brief but colourful ceremony following the arrival in Nigeria of the second Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, Chairman of Air Peace Limited, Barr. Allen Onyema reiterated the vision of the airline to continue to provide seamless connections to passengers locally and internationally. “What you are witnessing today is the power of a vision. When we started in 2014, we knew that by 2017, we would start acquiring the triple seven jets. When
the time came, we became the first airline in Nigeria to acquire the Boeing 777 and now, we have three of such jets. “When it was time to service airports with low traffic like Minna, Akure, Makurdi, Jalingo and other places, we acquired eight 50-seater Embraer 145 jets. While we were doing it, we didn’t lose sight of the
What you are witnessing today is the power of a vision. When we started in 2014, we knew that by 2017, we would start acquiring the triple seven jets.
AIRPEACE NEWS
need to start planning for brand new jets. In September 13, 2018, we became the first airline in SubSaharan Africa, to pay for 10 Boeing 737 Max 8 and our order is still intact, we won’t cancel it. “While the Max was having some issues, we decided to go for Embraer 195-E2 after meticulously studying it. We became the first in Africa to pay for 13 brand new planes and we would be acquiring 17 more to make it 30. These planes shall be deployed to domestic and regional routes. These jets are the best. If all the powers shut down while 30 feet above sea level, a RAM deploys automatically and the plane lands effortlessly. The aircraft speaks to the pilot and the pilot speaks to it. By the time we get everything, we would be providing 8000 jobs to Nigerians. “, he added. The Air Peace Chairman used the opportunity of the unveil of the second brand new Embraer 195-E2 Alice 29
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AIRPEACE NEWS
Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft
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jet to shed light on reasons why the airline’s capacity has been depleted for sometime. According to him, the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down maintenance works on many of the aircraft that were dispatched to a number of countries for routine but compulsory maintenance especially given that these countries are still on lockdown as a result of the pandemic. He said however that before the end of July, all the aircraft would be back in Nigeria. “Air Peace is not the only airline that has been affected by the pandemic worldwide and Nigeria is not immune from those things that have tried to destroy aviation worldwide. As I speak to you, we have about 20 of our aircraft still in maintenance “Air Peace is not the only airline that has been affected by the pandemic worldwide and Nigeria is not immune from those things that have tried to destroy aviation worldwide. As I speak to you, we have about 20 of our aircraft still in maintenance world-wide because of the effects of COVID19.
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AIRPEACE TRAVEL NEWS
But those above seven years are all doing Cchecks. But before the end of July, all our planes that are in maintenance will be brought back,” he said.
world-wide because of the effects of COVID19. Most of the countries where these planes were taken to are in various levels of lockdown and as a result, the pace of work on our planes has slowed down. This has depleted our capacity both within and outside Nigeria. We are not alone in this, all the older airlines are experiencing the same thing. The only airlines that may not be having these challenges are the very new airlines within and outside Nigeria because they are just starting. But those above seven years are all doing Cchecks. But before the end of July, all our planes that are in maintenance will be brought back,” he said.
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AIRPEACE NEWS
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COVID-19 Vaccination: Air Peace Pilots, Cabin Crew and other critical personnel get the jab!
Dea
by Ola Dear Maria, Olabisi O'dunne’s premier bridal collection, is inspired by the quintessence of the 50's woman. Her style is especially beloved because it upholds modesty and redefines elegance in a glamorous way. The collection features different lush fabric textures and vintage designs. The production and design team work with so much passion and fervor, ensuring each garment is a compilation of perfect elements
The pilots, cabin crew and other customer-facing personnel of Nigeria's foremost airline, Air Peace, have started receiving the COVID-19 vaccine to help curtail the spread of the virus and give passengers more confidence to fly with the airline.
confident and reassured whenever they fly Air Peace," Olisa said.
Spokesperson of the airline, Stanley Olisa, who disclosed this said that the vaccine was being administered by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN.
Air Peace is the first airline in Nigeria to announce the vaccination of its personnel, a move that accentuates its position as an industry leader in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in protecting its staff and passengers.
Olisa, who commended the Federal Government for making the vaccine available, stressed that Air Peace prioritises the wellbeing and safety of its staff and customers, adding that all frontline personnel had been directed to receive the vaccine. "We directed that our staff, especially those on frontline duties, get vaccinated to protect them and make the flying public feel more Alice 36
He added that Air Peace is committed to providing best-in-class flight services and observing strict standards of safety.
FASHION AND LIFESTYLE
ar Maria
abisi O’dunne.
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TRAVEL NEWS
… And the Allure Returns After about a year of contending with the social, economic and emotional effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, London, one of the world’s most bustling cities, is regaining its allure By Mariam Kadiri
L
ondon is one of the few cities on earth where all kinds of people from different parts of the world visit to study, work, holiday and live. Sadly, everything basically grounded to a halt in the past year, no thanks to the ravaging effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing largely to prolonged pandemicinduced lockdowns and movement restrictions, the once bubbly city of London has in the last one year been a miserable shadow of its old self.
Towards the end of 2020, the UK government ordered a fresh three months’ lockdown to control the rising second wave of the COVID-19 infections, especially as pressure mounted on health facilities. Worse still, the UK variant of the virus was found to be more lethal, necessitating even more devastating global isolation of London, the famed gateway to the world. Fear no more, for there is good news. The UK, especially the iconic city of London has since begun a slow but steady march towards regaining its old glory as one of the world’s leading social, business, tourism, shopping, educational, conference and transportation hub. The ease of lockdowns announced by Prime Minister, Boris Johnson commenced on the 12th of April, effectively opening the long shut doors of small, medium and big businesses: from hair salons to bookstores, zoos, drive in cinemas, shopping malls, restaurants and a lot more venues and events. With the current mass vaccination programme globally, over 40 million adults are said to have been vaccinated in the UK; this is on the route to meet the target of giving every adult in the UK at-least one shot of the vaccine by July in the hopes that travellers can visit England during the coming summer and large indoor events can be held once again. If you want to travel this summer, London is a great choice, partly because of the mass vaccination currently going on in the UK right now (COVID safe). Though the debate is on about the likely introduction of COVID
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vaccination passport as a prerequisite for entrance to a number of places in the UK. London will always be the choice of many summer holiday travelers. As an economic, social and cultural stronghold, London shows you a wealth of history in a futuristic environment. It can take you thousands of years into the past while presenting great innovation and technology to you, innovation so exciting that it will leave you amazed for the arriving future. Here are 8 reasons why London is considered as one of the best cities in the world.
Rich in History London was founded in the year 43 AD, and with an impeccable ability to preserve and maintain things of old; it has been able to hold on to beautiful architecture that is 2000 years old. In London, you will see architectural treasure from the Roman, Victorian and Tudor eras standing in the city. There are also four UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore. In London, you’re never far away from an architectural marvel. Top historical attractions in London include: Buckingham Palace Tower of London Tower Bridge Big Ben (the famous clock) Palace of Westminster
A Fashion Capital London and fashion go hand in hand. London has produced some of the greatest designers in the world and also some of the most fascinating fashion trends. London is also known for making stars of some of the biggest fashion brands we know today. The London Fashion Week ranks among the most influential and prestigious fashion week around the world and its edgy street fashion scene is without rival. Supermodels such as Naomi Campbell, Cara Delevigne and Kate Moss who have worked for iconic brands such as Mulberry and Burberry started in London.
Shoppers’ Heaven London is a true shopper’s heaven. There’s a saying that “if you can’t find it in London then it doesn’t exist,” this is Alice 46
TRAVEL NEWS
because London promises one of the grandest shopping adventures of your life - experiences that range from the luxurious settings of world-famous department stores like Harrods to hidden flea markets and vintage stores where you may find a life-long treasure. The city also hosts a number of personal shoppers, butlers, stylists and bloggers who can help you find anything that you are looking for. Top shopping areas in London include: Oxford Street Bond Street Carnaby Street Sloan street King’s Road
Endless Sightseeing There’s always something new to see and explore in London; doesn’t matter how long you’ve lived in London or how many times you have been there. London has many attractions that suit all s
orts of preferences, and there’s always something interesting going on in the city. From street artists and musicians to museums, cultural exhibits and music concerts; there is always something interesting to see or do. There’s something for all sorts of people. Best and Easiest Commute in the World London has the best transportation system in the world, compared to other so called great cities; moving around in London is easy. If you are new to London, you will not find it difficult to move around whether by car, train, bus, boat, bike, bicycle or foot. The London Underground system is an awesome way of getting from one place to the other and the beautiful train stations are adventures in themselves. There are also those iconic black taxis and shiny red buses to choose from as well,
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try sitting in the upper deck of the buses to see an exciting view of the city while you move around.
Artistique Flair London is one of the most artistic city in the world, rivaled only by New York and Paris. The city is covered with beautiful street art. There are many kinds of shows, cultural events and art galleries to enjoy as an art lover. And if you aren’t enthusiastic about art, be careful because the city can make you one. There’s always a new exhibition or event to attend and you also get to see some of the best and most iconic paintings of all time in the city. You will enjoy art from the classical era down to the modern era. Top Art Galleries/Art Houses in London include: National Gallery National Portrait Gallery Tate Britain Tate Modern Somerset House
Cultural Diversity A trip to London is literally like exploring the entire world, because it is filled with communities from many parts of the world with various cultures and languages. You can meet people from any part of the world and learn about their culture, it’s quite refreshing. And you can even meet a long-lost cousin
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you haven’t seen in years walking on Oxford street. This is how big, yet small London is. Even with the recent Brexit, London is still a city championed by a global society, regardless of gender, race, culture, sexual orientation and religion. Exciting Theater Scene The greatest cities in the world have one thing in common – their theater scene. Theater in London is an experience worth exploring. You haven’t fully enjoyed London
TRAVEL NEWS
One of the things that make London amazing is that it manages to preserve its classic British heritage and combines it with influences from all over the world to present a land of various cultures, making it a global city. Because of its beauty,
if you haven’t explored the theatre scene. Watch a show in the glitzy West End and allow your imagination to go to a new territory. Things may be a bit different because of COVID restrictions but you can surely find a COVID complaint theatre with a great show for you to watch. One of the things that make London amazing is that it manages to preserve its classic British heritage and combines it with influences from all over the world to present a land of various cultures, making it a global city. Because of its beauty, Hollywood also comes knocking from time to time as different parts of the city are used for film locations. When you visit, you may get lucky and see your favourite movie star shooting a movie nearby... fascinating.
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