Tamimi Gram - September 2021

Issue 004 September 2021

NOT JUST

ANOTHER

NEWSLETTER

Welcome!

Hello and welcome to the September issue of Tamimi Gram.

Here is your regular dose of getting to know your colleagues, feeling more connected and learning about each other.

In this issue Darel Fernandes is answering his 21 questions and Sabrine Ben Zbir is in the hot seat answering quick-fire questions in Meet at Tamimi.

You can read about Lucía Peña Santos and where she is from (hint; it’s a Caribbean island). We have more health and fitness tips for you, Randa Fakhoury teaches us how to cook the perfect Lebanese dish and Zeina Makarem reviews TV series she has recently watched.

There’s loads more for you in this edition, so happy reading J The Tamimi Gram working group

WHAT’S INSIDE 4

21 Questions with Darel Fernandes

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Meet at Tamimi

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Did you know…

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Where I am from…

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New joiners and saying goodbye

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Health and fitness tips

14

Tamimi Cooks

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Recommendations & review

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My Travel: Lebanon

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Tamimi Celebrates

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Guess the jurisdiction / Lol

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questions with

DAREL FERNANDES This month our camera is in Abu Dhabi, asking Darel Fernandes his 21 Questions. Get to know Darel better, from his favourite food to his morning routines.

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Another Tamimi Gram, another Tamimi staff member to get to know.

Meet Sabrine, from Tunisia. She works in the Admin/Reception department.

Sabrine is an ambitious and passionate individual, devoted to her job and looking for a brighter future and developing her professional talents, especially through family law. She considers the ability to provide legal guidance to those who are in distress to be immensely rewarding.

Sabrine is multilingual, enjoys music, swimming and horseback riding, something she has been doing since childhood, growing up in Tunisia, with her horse Jad. She cherishes her health, and looks forward to achieving all her future goals.

Besides doing adventurous interviews like this, what do you do on your days off?

On my days off, I actually go to the beach or pool as I love swimming.

What's something you own that you truly cherish?

My health Out of all the hobbies in the world, what's one hobby that you'll never give up?

I have always loved riding horses since my early childhood, I go back home every summer to Tunisia just to see “Jad” my horse.

Sabrine, How do you describe yourself in three words?

Ambitious, Passionate & Friendly What’s the best movie you ever watched and why?

The Shawshank Redemption from 1994, starring Morgan Freeman & Tim Robbins is my favourite movie of all time. Long story short, whatever situation you find yourself in - never give up hope and positivity.

Can you say anything in a foreign language?

Mat är livet.

If you were to join a department at Al Tamimi beside Reception, which one will you go to and why?

If I get the opportunity to grow at Al Tamimi, I would love to join the private client services because the career in family law is a challenging field. The personal involvement with clients and the ability to provide legal guidance to those who are in distress can be immensely rewarding.

What’s your favorite song to blast in the car?

Monique Bingham, Black Coffee – Deep in The Bottom Your favorite word of all time?

Baguette!

What do you have left in your bucket list?

Go Scuba Diving in Sharm Al Sheikh

SABRInE BEn ZBIR Receptionist, Dubai Tamimi gram

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DID YOU KNOW THAT

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Sleep Driving Did you know that in Tennessee, you are breaking the law if you drive your car whilst sleeping. I guess you might break your neck as well!

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Too scruffy to drive Did you know that in Athens, a driver can have their driving license taken away if the driver is deemed too scruffy or poorly dressed? I guess the fashion police do exist!

3 All Donated to Charity John F. Kennedy, the 35th US President, never made a dollar while in Government office.

During his terms as both a Congressman and then President, JFK donated all of his salary.

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The Dominican Republic

by Lucía Peña Santos, HR Manager, Dubai I am blessed enough to say I was born in the most beautiful place my eyes have seen on earth, the Dominican Republic. A place I like to call “my paradise”, where life is full of colors, enjoyable tropical weather and an eternal summer with a temperature averaging between 28 and 33 degrees Celsius during the year. The colors of the sea, crystal waters of the beaches, the fresh air and the delicious food, all that makes it amazing, but nothing compares to the simplicity and kindness and of my people.

After making a long journey of nearly a day, I feel a bit lost in between the two worlds I live in, but I know I am home when I see the incomparable turquoise color of the sea through my window and I hear the people clapping when landing in the DR.

THE DOMInICAn REPUBLIC The Dominican Republic is a nation located in the Caribbean with the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south.

We share the island of the Hispaniola with Haiti to the west. My country is known for its crystal waters, mesmerizing sea colors, resorts and golfing. The Capital of the country is Santo Domingo, one of the Caribbean’s oldest cities. It has many geographic wonders, including the Pico Duarte, the tallest mountain of the Caribbean.

WHERE TO GO?

Each city and region has its magic, but my favorite destination is the province of Samaná, a place where the humpback whales chose to go every year between December to March to deliver their baby whales because of the softness of waves and the warm ocean.

If you would like to experience the calmness of the sea, away from the noise of the city, excellent local food, waterfalls and wild vegetation, Samaná is the place to go. This is the place where my obsession for chasing sunrise and sunsets began when I was younger, and I am still amazed by the daily spectacle shared with us by Mother Nature.

Restaurants will offer a great selection of seafood, lovely fruit cocktails and tropical fruit ice creams.

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Samaná is not about shopping, but about enjoying outdoors activities, a trip in a boat, a walk along endless seashore, surfing, dancing barefoot and napping with the sound of the ocean and a piña colada - in summary, enjoying the little things.

PUnTA CAnA

Punta Cana is the most popular tourist destination in the country, famous for its golf courses and snorkeling activities.

For those that enjoy luxurious resorts, spas, family trips and fine dining, you can find it all. The all-inclusive resorts are the most popular attractions because guests can enjoy the Caribbean nights, carnivals, restaurants, bars and premium services.

This destination attracts many golfers.

The most popular course is Punta Espada Golf Club, the first of three Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses to be developed at Cap Cana, with a scenic beachfront setting and international restaurants.

Punta Cana international airport is the leading airport for travel to the Dominican Republic with convenient direct flights arriving daily from around the world. I like traveling from Punta Cana because I wait for my flight in Playa Blanca, a beach and restaurant located in front of the airport. I do not mind if the flight is cancelled, delayed, or if I just miscalculated the dates of the flight because of the time zone difference, it is good to be lost in paradise. J

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SANTO DOMINGO

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and where I spent my last years before living the country. It is the financial, commercial and cultural centre of the Dominican Republic and a UNESCO world heritage site as it is the oldest continuously-inhabited European settlement in the Americas and one of the most populous cities in the Caribbean. The city is a mix of old world charm and modern Latin flair. Its medieval palaces and fortresses mix with nightlife and shopping to rival any modern city in the world.

WHERE TO GO?

The “Ciudad Colonial”, largely built by the Spaniards during the colonial era, which together form more than 300 historical sites in the area; these include various monuments of cultural and historical character, as well as the homes of the great figures of the society of that time.

I am from the Dominican Republic, with music and party in my veins, a country without legs but that its people make walk, with an optimistic, resilient and kind soul.

A place I am blessed enough to call home.

I recommend the Ciudad Colonial as a place to discover hidden gems and enjoy dancing our Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music on the streets, visiting hidden restaurants, meeting friends and seeing beautiful sincere smiles.

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All photographs by the author

NEW JOINERS SAYING GOODBYE AND

I have joined Al Tamimi & Company for number of reasons and mainly because of the unique reputation and it is well known for the talents and senior resources.

My first impressions about Al Tamimi & Company is that it is an employer of choice that every top professional should seek and work hard to be part of this great learning and advanced organization.

I am thrilled to join this prestigious firm, it caught my attention that everyone in the team are hardworking and passionate on what they do. I am looking forward to being part of ATCO’s family.

Basmah Abualjadael Trainee Lawyer Known for its highest quality of standards in both the quality of work and team; I had made it my goal to be part of Al Tamimi & Company. I knew before joining the team that Al Tamimi & Company is in fact a great firm, my first impressions of the firm had truly been amazement and awe making me proud to be part of the Al Tamimi & Company team.

Hamed Matawi Trainee Lawyer

Maher Al Otaibi Office Manager

We also welcome the following to the firm: Ahmad El Chami

Paralegal

Corporate Commercial

Ahmed Amonette

Senior Associate

Financial Crime

Amani Mohammed AlSaey

Secretary

Corporate Commercial

Damasceno Rodrigues

Driver

Administration

Eman Darwish

Secretary

Litigation

Farhan AlMarri

Trainee Lawyer

Litigation

Girlie Panlaqui

Secretary

Corporate Structuring

Jitha Majeed

Finance Assistant

Finance

Justin Gambino

Senior Associate

Arbitration

Lana AlShinifi

Trainee Lawyer

Corporate Commercial / Corporate Structuring

Mehrul Arora

Trainee Lawyer

Banking & Finance

Nour Srour

Associate

Corporate Structuring

Reem AlShunaifi

Trainee Lawyer

Litigation

Ruba Zagzoog

Intern

Litigation

Sevil Yücekayali

Senior Associate

Corporate Structuring

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Health and fitness

By Barbara Koenen, BD & Marketing Director

I wouldn’t be able to imagine a life without workouts. Keeping physically fit ensures that I can mentally cope with whatever life throws at me. For me personally, physical, and mental health are very closely related and if they are not in balance, I feel unwell.

A healthy, balanced work-out routine is important for everyone. If you keep fit you will have more energy. Especially with the busy jobs all of us have, we have to ensure to make time for a good fitness routine, whatever that may look like for you.

I put this Fitness ABC together, which will hopefully inspire to get you moving. There is something for everyone, so no excuses!

A is for….Abs

Absercise is super important. If you work your core and your abs, all your day-to-day activities will be a lot easier. It will offer stability for the rest of your body. Even if you don’t like to work out, at least try to get this done three times a week for about twenty minutes. It will make a huge difference over time.

Burpees

I know, they are awful but so effective. Burpees work your full body. You work on your core, your arms, shoulders and legs all at the same time. An absolute winner. Try 3x30 three times a week.

Cycling

This is one of my favourite work-outs. I usually go to the cycling track and get my racing bike out at the crack of dawn for a 30K ride. Not only does it make me feel super energised afterwards, it also keeps me thinking clear, coming up with ideas for work and I take myself through a mental to-do-list. Highly effective work-out in terms of calorie burning as well so a total winner for me.

Dancing

Who doesn’t like to dance? The good thing is, you don’t have to be a professional dancer to enjoy the rhythm of the music and start moving. You will have fun and will not even realise you are working out at the same time. Go to YouTube and look for dance workouts; fun guaranteed.

Equipment

Not having any equipment is no excuse to not exercise. Even with little equipment you can do lots.

Take a chair, a bench, a skipping rope and if you really wanted to get some basic 5kg dumbbells and you’re all set. Water bottles could work as well.

Food

Improving your overall fitness will only work if you look at both increasing your exercise and eating the right food. You don’t have to go on a diet (I hate diets, I exercise to eat) but I am mindful of what I put in my mouth. I do enjoy eating pizza or fast food every now and again, but it is a treat, not the norm.

Glutes

Our glutes are made up of three muscles, all of which help drive power and stability throughout the rest of your body. And going back to the A in this fitness ABC, it is all about your core!

HIIT

High Intensity Interval Training is a very effective quick way of maintaining fitness. You can do a 20 minute work-out on a daily basis or every other day, at high intensity. Lots of burpees, skipping rope, etc. Loop up Joe Wicks on YouTube, he has easy yet effective workouts.

Internet

The internet offers lots of inspiration for easy workouts, I rely on it a lot if I feel uninspired but I want to get my exercise in. You will see me dancing in my living room without shame J.

Jogging

Love a good run. The weather is getting better. Even a light jog will make you feel energised for the day.

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Kilos

Don’t focus on the kilos, muscles actually weigh more than body fat so if you gain muscle strength, you will likely see the numbers on your scale go up.

Legs

Include a leg day at least once a week. As simple as stepping on a bench with alternate legs will do a trick. Get a few lunches and squats in on a regular basis.

Motivation

Motivation – stay motivated by setting short, medium and long term exercise and workout goals.

NSV

Stands for “non-scale victory”. We can all get caught up on the number on the bathroom scales, but your progress may actually be better measured by feeling more comfortable in your clothes, completing a full workout for the first time, or realising you no longer get puffed walking up the stairs!

What you consider an NSV is up to you and your goals.

Over head stretching

Over head stretching. Stretching is very important pre and post workout. Make sure you raise your overhead and stretch your arms and back, two areas that take on a lot of strain.

Protein

You need to feed your muscles. Your muscles need fuel to recover from exercise. Be nice and give them some protein. You can add protein powder to your yoghurt breakfast or have it as a shake.

Quarantine fitness

Maintain physical activity even when in quarantine. If you find yourself stuck in a hotel room, make sure you continue your exercise routine. This will also ensure you keep your mental sanity.

Routine

Whether you prefer working out in the morning, lunch time or evening, find a time that works for you and you can stick with. Having a routine will help to exercise regularly. I prefer early morning, before the family wakes up so I get it out of the way. It soon became a habit and I benefit from it every day.

Staircase

This is your friend. Instead of taking the elevator, use the staircase. If you have one at home, you basically got yourself a free gym membership. Walk the staircase a couple of times each day, for about 20 minutes or so, and your fitness level will go up! (literally)

Toughness

The main reason why we fail at keeping fit is to allow ourselves to find excuses for not doing it. It comes with a bit of toughness. Nothing comes easy. If you want to get fit, you’ve got to get up and start moving. No excuses.

Upper body strength

If you train your upper body, not only your core but also your back and shoulders, you will see immediate effect in being able to maintain a good posture during work. No more back aches, headaches and neck pains.

Vascular Health

Cardiovascular endurance is a measure of how well you can do exercises that involve your whole body at moderate to high intensity for an extended time. Improving your cardiovascular endurance can make it easier for you to carry out your daily tasks.

Weights

Weight lifting, especially in the morning I have been told, is very effective as it will trigger your muscles to get into action mode first thing. No need for heavy weights, easy 5kg weight exercises are highly effective.

X-jump

X-jump is a great workout you can do anywhere and is a real leg burner. Stand with legs slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Lower into a squat to reach opposite arm to opposite foot. Plant heels into the ground to return to standing, and as you stand jump as high into the air as you can, shooting arms overhead.

Yoga

Although I prefer cardio and endurance sports I do like a good yoga session mainly to relax the tension from my body. Especially after a busy working week it works well not only physically but also mentally to clear your mind and regain the balance.

Zig zag drills – this is a great drill that can challenge the cardiovascular system while training the leg muscles. Here are five steps to the perfect zig zag drill. You’ll need cones or some type of marker.

Zig zag drills

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2.

3.

4.

5.

Bend your knees and jump forward diagonally to the second cone. Use an upward swing of the arms for momentum.

At the second cone, land softly with knees bent to prepare for the next jump.

Immediately spring forward and jump diagonally and to the left towards the third cone.

Continue to jump in a diagonal pattern from cone to cone until you come to the last cone.

Turn around and return to the starting position.

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cooks Tamimi

by Randa Fakhoury

The perfect Lebanese dish in our house.

Chicken Fatteh is a Middle Eastern dish of rice, chicken, garlicky yogurt, crispy pita bread and toasted nuts.

It’s a complete comfort food, and truly delicious!

I am sure you will love once you try. It is very fresh and very yummy.

Preparation

Ingredients • 1 boiled or roasted chicken, shredded • 3 pita breads, cut into small squares (fried or toasted) I usually like fried.

• 2 cups cooked Basmati white rice (as you normally cook rice) • 2 cloves of garlic, mashed • 3 BIG cups plain yogurt • ¼ cup tahini • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice • Salt and pepper • ½ cup toasted pine nuts and sliced almonds to garnish • Chopped parsley to garnish • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

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1. Prepare the sauce by combining the mashed garlic and the yogurt. Whisk until smooth. Add the tahini while whisking and, finally, the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Make sure your shredded chicken and boiled chickpeas are warm before assembling the Fattet Djej and work quickly so everything is still warm when you serve it.

3. In serving platter, start with the pita squares, evenly distributed in a single layer.

4. The next layer is the cooked white basmati rice finally 2/3 of the shredded chicken.

5. Top with the yogurt sauce and the remaining chicken and finish by sprinkling the toasted nuts, melted butter, chopped parsley and touch of cumin.

Bon Appétit!

TV SERIES

by Zeina Makarem, Regional Marketing Manager

Nine Perfect Strangers

I am a huge fan of Nicole Kidman and Melissa McCarthy; this is why I started watching this series in the first place.

If I were going to describe this series in four words, it would be a bit creepy, unorthodox, intriguing and you automatically zone out while watching it. It starts with a retreat for nine people who go to Tranquilium House, which is a wellness spa to relax and deal with their problems. Nicole Kidman’s (Masha) Russian accent really sets the mood, because it shows how off and sadistic she is. I just finished watching episode 6 and I have to admit that I did not want it to end. With two episodes left, I am worried and relieved, the storyline is incredible because it shows everyone’s side of the story separately and shows how each person deals with grief differently. They put in many different scenarios between what one can be battling quietly. If tuned in consciously it can benefit us in the world in our everyday life when we pass a stranger at a grocery store, knowing if we had a couple days with them we could grow to love them.

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The White Lotus

This is series is an examination of what happens when the setting of conventional sociability mixes with all types of power struggles. The series starts as if everyone is going on a trip to relax but what is going to happen is the complete opposite. Its hell disguised as heaven. This series and Nine Perfect Strangers are very much similar but this one is more alive, and you can actually relate and are drawn into the action. This trip includes the Mossbacher family: Nicole (Connie Britton), a Sheryl Sandberg-like tech C.F.O.; her husband, Mark (Steve Zahn); their sixteen-year-old son, Quinn (Fred Hechinger); and their daughter, Olivia (“Euphoria” ’s Sydney Sweeney, once again playing a parent’s nightmare), who has brought along a friend, Paula (Brittany O’Grady). There is the obligatory newlywed couple—Shane (Jake Lacy), a real-estate scion in a Cornell baseball cap, and his wife, Rachel (Alexandra Daddario), there is also Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge), a lonely alcoholic who carries around her dead mother’s ashes in an ornate gilt box. The chief coddlers are Belinda (Natasha Rothwell), a soothing, longsuffering spa manager, and Armond, a mustachioed dandy and a recovering addict whose sobriety is tested by his stressful job.

The White Lotus is a ground for conflict, my advice is to watch this with an open mind and to expect the unexpected.

Designated Survivor

As a lower-level cabinet member, Tom Kirkman never imagined something would happen that would toss him to the oval office.

When a devastating attack on the night of the State of the Union address claims the lives of the president and most of the Cabinet, the Housing and Urban Development secretary who was named the designated survivor in case of such an event finds himself promoted to leader of the free world. Suddenly thrust into his new position of power, Kirkman struggles to keep the country from dissolving into chaos and must adjust to his new normal, unaware of what fresh horrors may await the United States.

The popular narrative about what would happen if an ordinary guy suddenly became president is an intoxicating one because it makes anybody question what they would do if they were in charge of their nation in a time of crisis. That’s exactly what happens to Adam Kirkman (Kiefer Sutherland, in his second role where he’s in charge of the nuclear football), the housing and urban development secretary who was sitting in his sweatshirt and comfy pants at a secure location when the Capitol is engulfed by a fireball killing every member of all three branches of government simultaneously. Before he can even finish his popcorn, he’s being sworn in.

There is one scene, right after Kirkman is sworn in, when he goes to the marble-festooned restroom in his bunker and vomits. It’s the best scene in the pilot. The idea of what would happen if an average citizen were to take over the country is one worth exploring (particularly because it might be our fate), but Designated Survivor isn’t quite up to the responsibility.

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Travel

Lebanon

by Rebecca Nakad, Associate

Join me on this edition of Tamimi Gram for a travel tour in Lebanon, as I will be your local guide who will show you a glimpse of this distinctly appealing Mediterranean holiday destination.

Being recognised as one of the Arab world’s most attractive destinations, Lebanon provides tourists with an indulging experience including ancient ruins, thriving nature reserves, lively cities, lengthy coastlines, and exceptional Lebanese cuisine.

Our journey starts with Beirut, known as Mother of Laws, a cosmopolitan capital and largest city in Lebanon. The greatest way to sightsee the city is to set out on foot or by bike, hitting major historic landmarks like the old town's Roman Baths, the iconic natural sites like the Pigeon Rocks just off the Manara Corniche known as Raouche Rocks, and the historic Hamra street along the way. End the ride with a waterfront promenade in Zeitunay Bay at sunset.

To discover the popular side of the city, walk down a Street in Mar Mikhael and Gouraud Street in Gemmayzeh, and immerse in Beirut's incontestable authentic streets where you can come across plenty of attractive restaurants, brunch spots and delight in plenty of splendid bars and nightclubs where party never stops.

While staying in Beirut, you cannot miss the authentic street food spots and taste the famous shawarma sandwich with extra garlic of course.

Next stop would be visiting one of the best archaeological museums in the Middle East, the National Museum of Beirut which offers an excellent synopsis of the region's history.

Now we take you off to the Bekaa region, to visit one of the most ancient places and one of Lebanon's most important archaeological monuments, the splendid Roman Baalbak Temples, which competes with famous analogous structures in the world. The road trip to Baalbak is never complete without a quick stop on the way to taste the famous “Sfiha Baalbakiye”, traditional Lebanese style meat pies.

Next visit would be to Byblos city, an UNESCO world heritage site, and the first city to be occupied by the Phoenicians. It is an easy day-trip from Beirut to exploit the 12th century Crusader Castle, and the ancient Phoenician port and walk in Byblos old souks to buy handmade souvenirs and crafts and try a traditional lunch to taste the Lebanese mezza and raw meat.

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Next destination would be Batroun city, where you can find topmost attractions, among others, the Phoenician Wall, Saint Stephan Cathedral and Nabu Museum. The trip to Batroun would usually start with a breakfast stop for a delightful Manouche just before hitting the beach to spend the day. For lunch, your trip to Batroun will not be complete without trying seafood dishes from any local restaurant and ask for their fresh catch of the day. A chocolate brioche in hand is a must while strolling Batroun’s old Souks. A trip to Batroun always ends with a visit tolocal pubs or breweries, to catch one of the most beautiful sunsets on the Mediterranean while sipping on a cocktail. .

Lebanon is amongst the oldest countries known for wine production in the world and its wine competes on international levels. While in Lebanon, it is recommended to experience at least a wine touring and tasting session in one of the many wineries located in the Bekaa Valley, or Batroun.

If you are visiting Lebanon during winter season, and you are a fan of winter activities, a trip to Mzaar Ski Resort or Arez (Cedars) ski slopes is a must. While visiting the Cedars region in the North, a stop at the Cedars of God reserve is a must where you can find one of the last vestiges of the extensive cedars forests of Lebanon.

If you are a hiking fan, Lebanon is the place to go for guided tours on the outstanding trails of Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, Arz Tannourine Cedar Reserve, Shouf Cedar Reserve and Falougha Lakes.

You cannot leave Lebanon without paying a visit to the marvellous Jeita Grotto's interconnected cave, a top tourist destination and selected as one of top 14 finalists in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition.

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celebrates

Tamimi

Saudi National Day

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Guess the JURISDICTI N Reveal and winner announced in next month’s issue.

For your chance to win guess which of our jurisdictions this is?

First colleague to email with the correct answer will win AED200 Amazon vouchers. Send your answers to a.joshi@tamimi.com

ck che e u yo se can t and an , a un Ic lex y A k acco oduct e H r " ban le p my t App uy...." wha rd to b e."

Juic affo e l pp : "A a x Ale

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SEE YOU NEXT MONTH If you have any suggestions or would like to contribute, please email a.joshi@tamimi.com