Absolutely Mama Emirates September 2018

SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE 5 • AED20

Mama EMIRATES

Your

PICK

Back to SCHOOL

Birthing choices here in the UAE

The Magazine for Stylish Mums

Cute kids’ clothes for the new term

PLANT POWER

Nutrition advice for vegan mums-to-be

TAKE A BREAK

Why you should book a trip to Hatta

ISSUE 5 • SEPTEMBER 2018

City style

6084010480100

Fresh looks for next season

Absolutely Mama Emirates

THE MAGAZINE FOR ST YLISH MUMS

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Children with dreams grow up to be people with vision U N I Q U E W A L L PA P E R M U R A L S D E S I G N E D T O H E L P B R I N G C H I L D R E N ’ S I M A G I N AT I V E P L AY T O L I F E A N D F O S T E R T H E I R C R E AT I V E T H I N K I N G

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www.dreamsonthewall.com info@dreamsonthewall.com +39 391 734 1924

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c ontent s SEPTEMBER 2018

82 30

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AGENDA 12 What’s On

Top local events and activities

14 Back to School Cute products for kids

FASHION & BEAUTY

40 Family Affair

We speak to Kimberley Walsh about her debut kids clothing line

42 C lass Heroes

Fall in love with the back-toschool collection from Sfera

16 New Books

Fab, fresh reads for little ones

MAMAHOOD 20 Your Pick

Nikki Oliver, “the fit midwife”, takes us through birthing options

23 Myth Buster

Alex Hunter tells us why she’d choose to have a C-section again

25 Woman in Work

Meet the super-mum behind the lovely e-shop, LittleWren.com

FOOD & FITNESS 54 B asic to Brilliant

Try three new recipes from Australian author, Donna Hay

60 Plants for Pregnancy A nutrition expert shares her top tips for vegan mums-to-be

HOME & INTERIORS 68 Autumn Falls

Carol Sukkar, owner of Home and Soul, reveals new trends in décor

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mama WELCOME

54

42 70 Quiet Patterns

Learn how to make the most of using prints subtly in your home

TRAVEL 80 Relax and Rewind

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67

Why Hatta is the staycation spot we’d recommend again and again

82 Village People

Take a trip to Sardinia’s most luxurious and kid-friendly resort

ESSENTIALS 90 Ask the Experts

Our resident advisors answer your most burning questions

94 Top Tips

Ten ways to make sure your little ones are ready for school

16 ON THE COVER:

Ellijunior.com; read more on page 39

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OC A RRO T H E A L L- I N - O N E P U S H C H A I R

Designed to be compact without compromise...

Because baby should enjoy the most comfortable journey possible, but you still need to fit it in your car boot.

mamasandpapas.com Designed for parents by parents

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mama WELCOME

MAX FASHION BACK-TOSCHOOL COLLECTION P.14

Editor’s

LETTER

S

eptember means many things in our world.

Older kids go back to school after a long summer.

Smaller sprogs start nursery. New seasonal fashion lines are released. And the temperature in the UAE takes it down a notch. It’s all stuff to look forward to. And we’re feeling positive.

Th is whole issue – and the magazine in general – is always packed full of positivity. Because a bit of positive thinking when life is tough (or not) does no harm. And when you’re a mum, or a mum-to-be, there’s plenty to get excited about.

Our kids, after all, are (mostly) a joy to be around.

So this is a fresh start, celebrating all things September.

From the cutest stationery items on the market (see page 14) to lovely new fashion collections for little ones (start from page 38) and the latest seasonal trends in interiors (page 68).

We also have new recipes you can feast on (page 54), great ideas on how to freshen up your child’s lunches (56) and even a yoga retreat in Sri Lanka you could book (page 62).

It’s always important to have something to look forward to. Whether it’s a great dinner, new project or a fabulous holiday (turn to page 77 for more inspiration). Th is month we’re anticipating a new pace of life in the UAE – and we can’t wait to get going. Enjoy!

HAPPY JACKSON TOTE BAG P.39

Katy G i llett GROUP E D I TO R QUIET PATTERNS BY ABIGAIL EDWARDS P.70

T h e M a g a z i n e Fo r S t y l i s h M u m s

@emiratesmama katy@zest-media.com

Mid-weight Designers: REBECCA NOONAN, CATHERINE PERKINS Finance Director: JERRIE KOLECI Directors: ROCHELLE STREATER, CRAIG DAVIES, JAMES FUSCHILLO Managing Director: SHERIF SHALTOUT

@ E M I R AT E S M A M A

Group Editor: KATY GILLETT Editor UK: HELEN BARON Assistant Editor: GEORGIA MCVEIGH Social Media Editor: JESSICA SHALTOUT Specialist Manager: ZARINA KAPASI Parenting Portfolio Manager: LEAH DAY Marketing Manager: LUCIE PEARCE Art Director: PHIL COUZENS Senior Designer: PAWEL KUBA

For editorial enquiries please email: katy@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please email: leah@zest-media.com For media partnership enquiries please email: lucie@zest-media.com

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10 things we Absolutely

LOV E Our pick of gorgeous items for homes and wardrobes next season...

Big Chill

Gera rd Da rel We know many of the Autumn/Winter 2018 aren’t suitable for our warmer climes, but we still love the latest looks from Gerard Darel. They’re classic yet daring and entirely sophisticated all at the same time; perfect for your travels to cooler cities next season. gerarddarel.com

TAME TEDDY

Konges Sl øj d How cute is this organic cotton knit toy from Konges Sløjd? The Denmark-based company was founded by interior designer and stylist Emilie Konge. Now you can bag this from the tasteful Dubai-based design store The Bowery Company. It’s got a small bell inside for added stimulation, too! AED85; thebowerycompany.com

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BEACH STYLE Sapia Simone The latest swimwear from Dubaibased brand Sapia Simone is out this month. Swap out any bright, garish, neon-laden pieces for the delicate, romantic pink tones championed in this new and subtle collection of stylish one-pieces and bikinis. sapiasimone.com

In Bloom

El o d i e Det a i ls Pretty princesses will adore this floral bib, and so will time-poor parents. It features two layers of Oeko-Tex-certified and waterproof soft cotton, which means it’ll stay dry and it’s very easy to clean. It’s also super-simple to fasten. Double win.

AED102; ellijunior.com

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ma m a LOVES

Faux Chic

Tz a r i n a by Ol l ia Did you know that Tzarina by Ollia, a brand beloved by Hollywood thanks to its colourful faux fur creations, has headquarters in Dubai? J-Lo, Mary J Blige and the Kardashians have been spotted in one. I think it’s time we were on that list, don’t you? tzarinabyollia.com

PRETTY IN PINK

Chapter One

Pur ifica c ion G a rc ia The key elements of Purificacion Garcia’s Fall Chapter One are check tailoring, a raincoat in tricotine, fluid fabrics like twill or technical ones such as eco-leather.

Stripes and floral motifs strike out, and hues move from white to cobalt and beige to blue Klein. purificaciongarcia.com

Ki p l i n g The rush for stylish back-to-school products is on. One that’s caught our eyes is this pinkgold backpack with the adjustable straps and plenty of handy pocket space. It’s got an ergonomic design, ensuring our little ones’ spines are always safe. And let’s not forget that original furry monkey charm. AED749; jashanmalhome.com

BABY SOFT

Ma ma s & Pa pa s From the moment baby first comes home from the hospital, Mamas & Papas’ Welcome to the World collection fits. The Autumn selection features super-soft jersey cotton, nickel-free poppers and a pastel colour palette that we adore. mamasandpapas.ae

BAG IT

Ch il d Hom e Not only is there a Mommy Bag (sorry Brits, no “mummy” bag here), but there’s also a Daddy Bag up for grabs. This one comes in cream, peach and navy, while pop’s comes in black. It’s ginormous; great for big broods and weekends away. AED549; fivelittleducksme.com

Cool Cats

Ok i e d o g Okiedog has all sorts of fun, critterinspired backpacks available in its Wild Pack collection. We’re quite partial to this tiger. We think it’s cute, perfectly sized for littles, plus it’s a bargain when you buy it from Sprii.com.

AED57.75; sprii.com

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Handcrafted Handcrafted nursery nursery furniture furniture that that becomes becomes part part of of the the family family

Handcrafted nursery furniture that becomes part of the family To mark the launch of TeddyOne, 200 sets of limited edition pieces come To mark the launch of TeddyOne, 200 sets of limited edition pieces come with a 10 per cent discount, complete with free White Glove delivery service. with a 10 per cent discount, complete with free White Glove delivery service.

Five of these come with a unique golden TeddyOne Bear – find one in Five of these come with a unique golden TeddyOne Bear – find one in your cot bed and you’ll receive your money back. your cot bed and you’ll receive your money back.

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School Rules • IN THIS SECTION •

Little tots and big kids are heading back into the world of play and academia this month.

And we’ve got a round-up of the city’s most gorgeous, colourful, practical gear to make sure they get the year off to a good start.

Turn to page 14 for the prettiest clothes, accessories, backpacks, lunchbags – and more – you could need.

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W H AT ’ S ON School’s back in session, summer is fading, and there’s a whole new schedule on the agenda...

3 O F TH E B E ST A B U D H A B I AC TI V ITI E S Three must-try events taking place in the UAE’s capital

Pre-natal Seminar 19 September Bodytree Studio

Learn about baby massage, hypnobirthing, pediatric first aid and pre-natal partner yoga, among many other things, in this seminar. Did we mention it’s free? bodytreestudio.com

Japanese Connections 6 September-24 November Louvre Abu Dhabi

Japanese Connections: The Birth of Modern Décor displays works that highlight the artistic and cultural dialogue between Japan and France. louvreabudhabi.ae

Editor’s Pick

Touring

TYKES

Various locations across Dubai  8 September-24 November

Touring Tykes is a fantastic children’s adventure excursion company for three- to five-year-olds, where they can enjoy all sorts of activities and no two weeks are ever the same. The new term sees little ones building at Dig It, cooking noodles at wagamama, jumping at Flip Out – and plenty more. touringtykes-me.com

Neon Nights Fridays, until 21 September Yas Waterworld

One of our favourite waterparks in the UAE is now open until 10pm, offering a familyfriendly, after-dark experience, complete with a Neon River and Silent Neon Disco. yaswaterworld.com

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EVENTS

New Menu

Until December Taqado branches across the UAE

Lovers of Mexican food will be happy to know Taqado has launched a new, limited-edition menu. The Especiales selection includes dishes like sweet potato and chicken chorizo quesadillas (AED38), breakfast tacos (AED32) and tuna tacos with pickled cactus, salsa fresca and chipotle sour cream (AED40). Big and little tastebuds will get a kick out of this. taqado.com

THE COLOR RUN

Shadowland

10 November Dubai Autodrome

13-15 September Dubai World Trade Centre

Y

allet, circus acts, shadow theatre and multi-media storytelling blend together in this sensorial performance by dance theatre company Pilobolus. Shadowland has already enchanted more than one million people, and now it’s coming to Dubai to capture our imaginations, too. One German newspaper described it as: “Something beautiful, touching and completely unexpected.”

We can’t wait. From AED230; shadowland.ae

ou might wonder why we’re already banging on about The Color Run. Two reasons: we look forward to it every year; and tickets just went on sale. As long as you’re old enough to wobble, you can get involved with “The Happiest 5K on the Planet”. And this year there’s a new Super Zone. See you there?

From AED55 (ages four and under). thecolorrun.ae

B

3 Top Bargains

STAY & PL AY

B E YO U R B E ST

D I N N E R & S PA

In collaboration with Mastercard, Atlantis The Palm is offering 25% discounts on dining, spa and activities for overnighters and day visitors (“stay” and “play” options). It’s the perfect time to swim with dolphins. atlantisthepalm.com

It’s your last chance to bag bargains on the Fairmont’s fitness classes. Pay just AED99 for an Aquaspin and yoga class. Then visit the website below to download a free PRAMA session voucher, too. beyourbestdxb.com

Here’s a date-night idea: enjoy a set-menu dinner at Argentinian spot Asado or Thai eatery Thiptara and indulge in a 50-minute treatment at The Spa at Palace Downtown. It’s AED550 per person. palacehotels.com

Until 17 October Atlantis The Palm

Until 15 September Fairmont The Palm

Until 30 September Palace Downtown

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Back To

School Be inspired by this season’s new-term trends W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

Star Studded MA X FASHION

Iconic childhood characters form the basis of the back-to-school collection from Max Fashion. Spot the whole gang – from Mickey and Minnie to Hello Kitty and even the Avengers – on the colourful, cute line of clothing, accessories and backpacks. maxfashion.com

Take Note ALICE SCOTT

Chic, sophisticated and ontrend stationery pieces and gift items are what Alice Scott does best. We simply adore this beautifully bound B5 notebook with the tropical print in monochrome. It has 160 lined pages, so that’ll last a while, too.

AED95; ae.namshi.com

POP-UP SHOP BLOOMINGDALE’S

Until mid-September, both Bloomingdale’s Fashion and Home stores in Dubai are hosting back-to-school pop-up shops, showcasing brands like Ted Baker, kikki.K, Kate Spade and Rex London (pictured). Grab the latest stuff while you can! facebook.com/ bloomingdalesMiddleEast

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agend a SHOPPING

Top Grade

POTTERY BARN KIDS

Pottery Barn Kids’s new back-to-school collection is out. Backpacks, lunchboxes and water bottles come adorned with the likes of Elsa from Frozen, characters from the Avengers, and even Star Wars themes.

It’s all academic, of course. Prices vary; potterybarnkids.me

LADYBUG BALL SKIP HOP

The Zoolet is a mini backpack that’ll make littler ones feel like a big kid. It comes with adjustable pack straps, top handle and easyto-attach tether. Not to mention a cute ladybug face. There are giraffe, monkey, butterfly and bee options, too! AED99; sprii.com

HAVE A CUPPA BAN . DO

If your little grown-up likes to take a hot beverage with them in the morning, then we recommend her stowing it in this gorgeous, floral thermal mug from LA-based design house, ban.do. It’s super cool, mum. AED85; ae.namshi.com

Done, Dusted HAPPY JACKSON

When it comes to folders, notebooks, pencil cases, lunch bags – basically anything that keeps you organised – then Happy Jackson should be your go-to. The Londonborn brand creates products that are bright, uplifting and full of positive messages to get you through the day. AED80; bloomingdales.com

All Stars PENNY SCALLAN DESIGN

Ever since Penny Scallan Design came to the UAE just a few months ago, we’ve been coveting the brand’s lovely, brightly coloured kids’ products.

The back-to-school collection is no exception. You certainly won’t lose this pencil case! AED82.95; mumzworld.com

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We love

BOOKS

Practise reading in time for school with an artistic frog, bumbling bees and the return of Peter Pan Wo r d s G E O RG I A M C V E I G H

Neverland P E T E R PA N

by J. M. Barrie, retold by Caryl Hart, illustrated by Sarah Warburton

J.M. Barrie’s masterpiece has been retold in many forms. Now, Caryl Hart has taken up the torch with this beautiful story rhyme. Lose yourself in Sarah Warburton’s wonderfully illustrated Neverland as the well-known story is told like never before. AED72;  nosycrow.com

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ART ATTACK ARTY!

by William Bee

Follow the escapades of the greatest artist in the world: Arty the frog, with his agent, Mr Grimaldi. His famous painting is not only the highest in the world, it’s the loudest, the wobbliest, the fastest, the wettest, the hairiest and the scariest. Art can be just about anything! AED33; pavilionbooks.com

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BOOKS

AWESOME ACROBATICS

FEARLESS MIRABELLE

by Katie Haworth, illustrated by Nila Aye

A story that celebrates difference.

Mirabelle and her twin sister Meg have different ambitions: Mirabelle wants to be a famous acrobat like her parents but her sister Meg is scared of heights. Is there anything Mirabelle is scared of?

AED39.10;  uae.kinokuniya.com

B I G CO N C E P T

PILE UP A P I L E O F L E AV E S

by Jason Fulford & Tamara Shopsin

Fantastic and fascinating for pre-readers, this clever collage book features seethrough acetate pages to create, quite literally, a pile of leaves. Delve through the layers to discover the creepy crawlies hiding underneath. Price on request;  magrudy.com

BEE Happy WHY DO WE NEED BEES?

by Katie Daynes

This pretty lift-the-flap book teaches tinies the importance of bees to our ecosystem. Discover where they live, why we need them and the hierarchy system in bee society. With lovely illustrations, this is an introduction to bees in the best way. AED55.25;  uae.kinokuniya.com

DEAR GRANDMA BUNNY

by Dick Bruna

Explaining the concept of death to littles can be tough, but Dean Bruna’s book Dear Grandma Bunny makes it that little bit easier. Relaunching due to popular demand, the new version has been freshly translated by poet Tony Mitton, and provides a whole new view on death. AED24;  simonandschuster.co.uk

CHAIR N E C E S S ITI E S UNCLE OSCAR’S CHAIRS

by Magnus Englund

Magnus Englund, co-founder of leading design brand Skandium, is delving into literature with this fun new book that explores the world of designer chairs – all while learning your ABC. Which chair is your favourite? AED62;  penguin.co.uk September 201 8

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FINE CASTING & BESPOKE HAND ENGRAVED JEWELLERY Telephone 020 8769 4757 Mobile 07977 477 518 enquiries@philippaherbert.co.uk www.philippaherbert.co.uk philippa_herbert Registered Charity no. 1167073

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mamahood B I R T H I N G O P T I O N S I N T H E UA E p . 3 0 • A LE X H U N T E R O N C - S EC T I O N S p . 2 3 A I S H A A LK H A JA F R O M LI T T LE W R E N .CO M p . 2 5 • S E RV I C E S FO R M U M S -TO - B E p . 2 7

New Arrival • BABYBOX•

When someone has just had a baby the first thing you want to do is treat them. That’s where Babybox comes in.

The UAE-based company designs and packages gorgeous gift boxes for happy new parents, with everything from rompers to swaddles and engravings. babybox.ae

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Y O U R B O D Y, Y O U R P I C K What are the choices that are open to you when giving birth in the UAE? Midwife Nikki Oliver shares her best advice…

Wo r d s N I K K I O L I V E R

F

rom the moment you find out you’re pregnant there are so many choices in front of you. Which pram to buy, when to take your maternity leave, pacifier or no pacifier.

But there are three major decisions you need to make first: Who will be your doctor? What kind of birth experience do you want to have? And where will you birth your baby?

These three are all inextricably linked.

Mums-to-be in the UAE are now becoming more empowered than ever before and they want to explore every option available to them for the birth of their babies. And rightly so. The past five years has seen a rise in the number of midwives working in the UAE. This role has facilitated a rise in women-centred care. So let’s take a look at how to ensure you have the most positive birth experience you can...

Choosing your Doctor

his is perhaps the most important choice. Midwives are not allowed to deliver babies here – it’s very much physician led. It’s so important to find a doctor

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you trust and who truly understands your wishes. Shop around! One of the many benefits of private healthcare means that you have this luxury. Your doctor will be attending your delivery (though will most likely not be present until pushing… this is what we midwives are for). Ask your doctor questions. Do they have experience in the type of birth you would like?

Sit with them and talk through your birth plan, understand each other’s expectations and there will be fewer surprises in your labour.

And remember to ask around for recommendations. While I strongly discourage you from listening to every story on Facebook, other mums have been through it and their feelings towards doctors are a great resource.

Choosing your hospital

hoosing a hospital to deliver in is next on the list. Firstly, does your doctor have privileges here? Does your insurance cover this facility? Do they have midwives on the labour ward? Can they provide options for waterbirth, active birth, a NICU? I can wholeheartedly promise you that if you pick a hospital based on the VIP room then you will be neglecting other very important aspects.

C

Women in the UAE have so much choice for hospitals now (note that homebirth is illegal here). We know that Abu Dhabi boasts a strong maternity unit in The Corniche. In Dubai we have Mediclinic, Saudi German Hospital, American Hospital Dubai and Al Zahra offering multiple services. But what is perhaps most exciting (and, yes, I’m a little biased) is the much-anticipated London’s King’s College Hospital (KCH) is set to open its first branch outside the UK in Dubai in early 2019. It will bring state-of-theart facilities, including a specialisation in obstetrics and gynaecology, which is planned to have a focus on supporting natural birth practices. (And I can confirm the midwives are fabulous…)

Your birth experience

erhaps the easiest question to answer, right? You want a safe experience. A positive one. On my blog I always advocate for positive birth experiences. It really doesn’t matter what your mode of birthing your baby is as long as you’re comfortable, happy and informed. So these are the birth options you can explore...

P

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mamahood BIRTH

~

 WATERBIRTH: Birth in a pool fi lled with warm water. It is effectively like a giant bath.

Water makes you more buoyant, allowing easy mobilisation. It encourages your skin to stretch and can reduce perineal trauma.

And, anecdotally, babies born in water are generally pretty chilled.  VAG INAL BIRTH: I can’t make this one much clearer. I use the term vaginal birth because if your baby comes out of there assisted (forceps or ventouse/suction) or unassisted… it still comes out. Sometimes babies need a little encouragement and that doesn’t distract from your efforts!  NATURAL CAESAREAN SECTION: This is not nearly as terrifying as it sounds. A “natural caesarean” mimics natural birth as

“THE PAST FIVE YEARS HAS SEEN A RISE IN THE NUMBER OF MIDWIVES WORKING IN THE UAE”

much as possible, allowing the parents to watch the birth as active participants.

It allows for a gentle birth, reducing the need for resuscitation of the newborn, and allows for the baby to be transferred to the mother’s chest immediately, for early skin-to-skin contact. I can count the doctors who can do this on one hand. But investigate!

You won’t be disappointed.  DOULAS: Not many places advocate the use of doulas. I think professionals who are not confident find them somewhat intimidating or troublesome. Me… I love them! They are women who are kind and

~

gentle and support birthing families to achieve the birth they want. More often than not your doula will be trained in hypnobirthing, too, which provides emotional and mental tools for coping in labour!

One final word: always, always remember: “No decision about me, without me!”

Nikki Oliver is a midwife at King’s College Hospital, Dubai. For more great advice and information on birthing in the UAE, check out her blog; thefitmidwife.com September 201 8

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mamah ood COLUMN

Telling it like it is…

C-sections

I

Alexandra Hunter on the myths and realities of caesarean sections

wanted to give birth naturally.

I assumed I would be able to.

I absolutely did not want a C-section; the idea terrified me and I felt like I’d be cheating if I took this path, as if it were somehow improper. We’re all told, when pregnant, to consider our birth plan. My antenatal class, like all others, provided all the details for different types of pain relief and options, and I had a plan. I like a plan. I tend to stick to my plans. I was going to be in the birthing suite, water bath optional, Pilates balls at the ready, music decided on and carefully selected, pain relief there – if needed.

Needless to say it didn’t go to plan. Sebby was breech, which was discovered at about 33 weeks.

Plenty of time for him to turn then.

The midwives were fantastic and suggested I try moxibustion, a form of heat therapy in Chinese medicine.

I followed instructions, burning the dried herb by my toes morning and evening for a few weeks, feeling

~

“ I LI K E A P L AN .

I T E N D TO ST I C K TO M Y P LAN S .

I WAS GO I N G TO B E I N T H E B I RT H I N G S U I T E”

~

slightly insane while performing the ritual. I also booked acupuncture sessions, but, of course, he remained breech. He was perfectly comfy where he was, while I had huge bruises around my ribs from his habit of headbutting me.

The next step was external cephalic version, or ECV, at the hospital. I was rigged up to all sorts of machines and

Sebby’s heartbeat was monitored for an hour while I was injected with muscle relaxants, the doctor trying to turn him externally, hoping he’d somersault into position. He didn’t. We waited an hour, monitoring to make sure he was in no distress, then tried again. It was boiling hot and horribly uncomfortable as the muscle relaxant wore off and I wasn’t allowed more.

Once again, of course, he didn’t turn.

So I was booked in for the C-section I had tried so desperately to avoid.

I cried a lot, then resigned myself to the fact that there was no choice – and I still had a few weeks to get used to the idea. Unlike a lot of my friends, I knew the time and date my baby would arrive and this was brilliant.

I could prepare calmly rather than playing the waiting game. We had our soundtrack sorted (including I Want to Break Free; I desperately hope he’ll be a Queen fan) and our bags packed.

A planned C-section is surreal.

There were 15 people in the operating theatre and I was terribly nervous, but they were all very kind and efficient.

No pain, just slight discomfort and suddenly our baby had arrived. I wasn’t exhausted like so many women are when their baby is handed to them, and this was wonderful in itself. You can’t walk for a few hours afterwards so Sebby was dressed and carried to me by his father. He was (and is) perfect, and we walked out of the hospital less than 24 hours later.

At home, a sideless cot for beside the bed became a must, as for a few weeks it felt impossible to sit up without something on hand to use as a lever of sorts. It enabled me to roll over and pick Sebby up. Other than the slightly reduced mobility and not being able to drive, my discomfort was minor.

A healthy baby and mother are all that matters and we’re lucky we live in the age where a C-section is such a straightforward and standard procedure. Mine wasn’t elective but were I to have another child I’d definitely opt for one again. By all means, make a plan, but research the other options as well – as babies often don’t stick to plans.

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mama h ood Q & A

AISHA, HER HUSBAND AND LAWRENCE AKA “LITTLE WREN”

LITTLEWREN.COM STOCKS BRANDS LIKE ADEN + ANAIS

woman in

WORK

Aisha Alkhaja, founder of LittleWren.com, has moved back to Dubai and brought her business with her…

W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

AISHA ALKHAJA STARTED LITTLEWREN.COM IN 2016

E

mirati mama Aisha Alkhaja initially launched her e-commerce business, LittleWren.com, with her husband in England when she was pregnant. They’d found it hard to source original, high-quality products that inspired them. Fast forward two years later and they’ve successfully created a global company that keeps the whole family in mind, with a focus on mums, dads and gender-neutral items for kids from independent brands. Now she’s bringing all of that back to Dubai, where she sees plenty of opportunity for her business and baby…

Q Why have you decided to move back to the UAE from the UK? A We saw many opportunities for us and especially for our son. Dubai is a great place to raise children from an educational and safety perspective. I also see opportunity with regards to Little Wren. Being located in the UAE means our distribution is centralised, as we ship worldwide.

Q What makes Little Wren different to other e-commerce stores for families?

A At Little Wren, we stock products that

are hand-selected by myself and my family.

My son tests the products and if they last through everyday childhood mess, then we stock them. By last, I mean: wash well and remain looking as fresh as the first wear.

Our number one focus is on the quality of the products we stock.

The majority of our brands are by independent companies. Quite a few of the brands we stock are made by mummies like me who saw a gap in the market or just wanted something a little different for their children. I love supporting these brands by offering them a global selling platform.

Q How do you find it juggling business and family responsibilities?

A Hard! I won’t lie and say it’s easy. I’m very fortunate that my husband is so helpful and very hands-on with Lawrence. That’s the only way both of us are able to balance being parents and running Little Wren.

Q What advice do you have for other working mamas?

A You can do it! Don’t listen to anyone who tells you otherwise. We have “mum guilt” and that’s enough without having other people being negative. The trick is to find a balance between being a parent and working. I do most of my work while Lawrence is at nursery and asleep.

Q What about for mums thinking of starting up their own business?

A Go for it! Men wouldn’t put off working or starting their own business because they are parents and neither should women. Just find the right balance and ask for help when needed. Start small, work from home, but then – inshallah – growth follows and you can expand how you see fit. Incorporate your kids where possible. If you have an office, for example, add a section for the kids so they can play while you work. Anything is possible, you just have to have foresight.

Q What’s next for Little Wren?

A We are planning on having a few events throughout the next year, which is very exciting. We also have more brands joining the Little Wren family, some of which are local brands based in Dubai. We want to add more local brands and possibly collaborate with local designers.

The biggest thing we will be working on is creating the Little Wren collection.

It’s still in the early phases, but we’re so excited. Watch this space!

September 201 8

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"Imperial Nannies is an extremely professional and trustworthy agency. Their consultants are caring and incredibly efficient. They understood our needs and provided us with a really exceptional Nanny – in another league from others."

Mrs B

caring for you and your baby in the Middle east since 1996 Make those first weeks with your new baby happy and memorable by booking your very own British Maternity Nurse from Maternally Yours.

Recover from birth whilst a Maternity Nurse is on call to care for your new baby in your home 24 hours a day, 5 or 6 days per week.

“i would wholeheartedly recommend Maternally yours to my friends and relatives looking to find a maternity nurse.”

Mrs V

The UK’s Leading nanny agency since 1996 British and European Nannies and Governesses for discerning families the Middle East.

Providing culturally sensitive staff, respectful of the local and religious way of life.

Contact the team at Imperial Nannies for further details:

Contact the team at Maternally Yours for further details: 00 44 207 795 6299 maternally@imperialstaff.com

00 44 207 795 6220 nannies@imperialstaff.com

@MaternallyYrs

www.maternallyyours.co.uk

IN.indd 1

www.imperialnannies.com

24/07/2018 09:57

mamah o o d

OPINION

~

“A MASSAGE PROMISES TO HELP ALLEVIATE MANY OF THE DISCOMFORTS THAT COME WITH BEING PREGNANT ”

~

FIRST-TIME MAMA…

Tips & Toes

Mum’s Wishlist

Our resident mama-to-be reveals the six brands and services that have seen her through her pregnancy…

A

s I hit the third trimester, I want to take a moment to acknowledge some of the amazing services, experiences, and brands I’ve come across in the last 27 weeks as an expat mummy-to-be…

Mums & Bumps

 I was determined not to shop maternity. I had seen enough #bumpinspo on Instagram to feel confident I could style my way through it. Fast forward to three months in and I couldn’t be more relieved to shop maternity! I recently shopped on the fab Middle East-based website Mums & Bumps for fitness bits for my weekly yoga class. They also have great workwear from Isabella Oliver.  mumsandbumps.com

W o r d s F R A N K I E H I LT O N

Exhale

 Speaking of my weekly yoga class… I wasn’t much of a yogi before pregnancy. However, pregnancy yoga I can do! It’s how I always envisaged it; calming and strengthening. I go to EXHALE in JBR on a Tuesday morning with the lovely Yousra Diab.

She ensures a full-body workout, with the perfect balance of mind, body, spirit – plus laughs.  exhaledubai.com

Baby2Body

 Another great form of exercise is the Baby2Body app. I don’t use it as much as I would like to – because, you know, I’m growing a baby – but I do recommend you download it for weekly workout suggestions. They’re fantastic for home or gym. The app also works in the same way as Pregnancy+, with daily updates on your baby journey.  baby2body.com

 Tips & Toes offers the most fantastic prenatal massage. I highly recommend booking time with Rose in the new Springs Souk branch. The massage (AED336) promises to help alleviate many of the discomforts that come with being pregnant, and aims to create balance that will level out hormones.

Relax and enjoy, before the little one comes and you don’t have time!  tipsandtoes.com

Sprii

 Mums, you can buy absolutely everything on this website. My shopping cart has included a Tommee Tippee steriliser, Sunveno diaper bag, pregnancy pillows, nipple creams, and the Baby Zen Yoyo. And everything can be found at hugely discounted prices. It’s the only time you can get multiple daily deliveries past your husband (“it’s not for me, it’s for the baby!”).  sprii.com

Love Parenting

 I have already met the ladies behind Love Parenting UAE who hold the classes “introduction to hypnobirthing” and I’m really excited to get started. I’ve enrolled myself and my husband for a onemonth course. A friend of mine had a fantastic experience and I’d really like to encourage an equally calming birthing experience. facebook.com/loveparentinguae September 201 8

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©2018. All rights reserved Young Soles. Photography by Emma Donnelly.

A cool treat for little feet www.youngsoles.co.uk

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fashion & beauty N E W T R E N D S FO R M U M S p . 3 0 • A F FO R DA B LE FA S H I O N FO R T H E N E W S E A S O N p . 3 2 K I M B E R LY WA L S H ’ S D E B U T K I D S CO LLEC T I O N p .4 0 • B E ST B E AU T Y B U YS p .4 8

Throw Shade • PARFOIS •

Monochromatic canvases make the brightly coloured accessories pop in Parfois’ Pre-Fall 2018 collection. It’s designed to turn heads, to give you all the on-trend accessories you could need at affordable prices. The blackand-white print Garden Bloom Dress (pictured) is our favourite. parfois.com

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mama’s

ST Y L E NOTES

Summer is still here with classy pieces in bright, uplifting hues...

we love

À LA MODE PROMOD

Pinstripes, stark whites, a smattering of floral; Promod’s back to school campaign for grown-ups is smart and sharp. These are the kind of looks that empower us to sign up for that class, apply for that job and smash it at work.

You’ve been schooled. promod.com

YO U R F I T SHOENVIOUS

Apparently, women own an average of 18 pairs of shoes, but 80% wear only three or four regularly. Enter, UAEbased company Shoenvious.

It uses 3D technology to cut fully customisable shoes that fit you perfectly. There’s no reason why you won’t wear these. shoenvious.com

Rebel Girl SHEIN.COM

Los Angeles-based Saudi fashion model, Roz, was all over the recent campaign by Shein.com. As one of the region’s first fashion models, she’s used to breaking a few boundaries. The new line and its covetable key pieces embodies her fearless spirit. shein.com

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fash io n & bea ut y

Bucket List G E R A R D DA R E L

Since 1971, Parisian fashion house Gerard Darel has, season after season, produced some of the most tasteful looks on the market. The latest collection is full of grownup styles, classic colours and sophisticated messages. This bucket bag is just one thing that’s on our wishlist. AED1,285; gerarddarel.com

MAMA

nd Bra us Foc

TALABAYA A marriage of Middle Eastern trends and European minimalism

S TAT E O F A R T

WHO Two women, two cultures – that’s where the Talabaya story begins.

Lucie, a stylish client of Prague-based fashion designer Mirka Talavaskova, was moving to Saudi Arabia in 2015 and needed more modest pieces to add to her Brussels-styled wardrobe. Mirka was inspired; she fused Middle Eastern fashions with European minimalist style to create the first-ever Talabaya collection, which was elegant, classy and on-trend. It took off when she was invited to the first modest fashion event in Dubai.

SFERA

We’re getting retro vibes from Sfera’s Pre-Fall 2018 capsule collection for women.

At the heart of it, it’s all about celebrating feminity and empowerment through bold looks, featuring draped fabrics, acid hues and animal prints.

No wallflowers allowed.

W H AT

sfera.com/ae

5 of t he b e st ANI M A L PRI N T S

The Talabaya woman is graceful; she has class, style and a heightened attention to detail. She’s creative, and looks to express herself through her wardrobe, accentuating her personality with pieces that are of high quality and use luxurious fabrics.

WHERE

GERARD DAREL Blouse, AED970; gerarddarel.com

KURT GEIGER Carvela Alison Camel heels, AED899; kurtgeiger.com

STEVE MADDEN Casual Karisma Slides, AED299; stevemadden.com ZARA Snakeskin print shirt dress, AED429; zara.com/ae

Dubai’s concept store, BEYOUboutique, which was founded by Her Highness Sheikha Maytha, is home to Talabaya in the region. It aims to be a platform for emerging designers, showcasing them alongside international names.

The bricks-and-mortar store is located on the ground floor in Dar Al Wasl Mall, Dubai. Or you can shop online at beyoudubai.com. talabayadesign.com

PARFOIS Ballerinas, AED129; parfois.com

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SMART CASUAL Keep it cool and comfortable with Max’s City Slick collection, which takes outfits from work to street with ease m a x f a s h i on .com

Polka dot top: AED44 Full length trousers with pocket and tape detail: AED65

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Image on left: Floral printed midi dress with threequarter length sleeves, AED75 Image on right: Polka dot printed midi dress with round neck and long sleeves, AED75

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Woman on right: Slogan top, AED44 Wide leg trousers: AED65

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kid s

FA S H I O N NOTES Katy Gillett rounds up the new season’s loveliest launches and style essentials for little ones a Mames Lov

MISS M AT C H ZARA KIDS

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to Zara Kids’ Autumn/ Winter 2018 collection. It’s all about having fun, being comfortable and making sure childhood lasts for as long as possible, just like those high-quality threads. zara.com/ae

O N LY O N E OKAÏDI OBAÏBI

When it comes to dressing baby, we love affordability.

That’s why we’re fans of Obaïbi and Okaïdi. For instance, these lovely little onesies are just AED69 each. They’re cute, fun and you won’t be breaking the bank when your sprog grows out of it within a few months. That’s what we call sensible shopping.

AED69; okaidi.com/ae

Winter Warm L A C O Q U E TA K I D S

La Coqueta Kids’ latest looks epitomise warmth. Find sweet rompers, cosy cardigans and darling dresses; both little boys and girls (mum and dad) will find plenty to covet here. The brand is based in London but delivers to the UAE. lacoquetakids.com

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Back to Class CLARKS

KIDS

nd Bra us Foc

After no less than 60 lab tests (that included flexing leathers half a million times), Clarks was ready to release its Back to School collection. The 12 new styles (six for girls, six for boys) were tried and tested by real school kids to make sure each shoe stays comfortable every day.

From AED275; clarks.ae

ELLI JUNIOR Wo r ds K AT Y G I L L E T T

SPORT STYLE

E

A D I DA S

Let the team sports commence. Adidas has launched its Back to Sports campaign, and in the UAE parents can spend AED250 in stores and get AED50 off.

Go on, make sure your kid is talk of the playing field. shop.adidas.ae

5 o f t he b e st LU N C H B AG S DELSEY Tropical lunch bag, AED89; jashanmalhome.com

HAPPY JACKSON All You Need is Lunch tote bag, AED36.75; sprii.com

BEATRIX NEW YORK Nigel the Shark lunch box, AED141.75; sprii.com

REX LONDON Set of three suitcases, AED143; bloomingdales.com

BENBAT Go Vinci Lunch Box, AED93.45; mumzworld.com

lli Kasbi, a 37-year-old mamaof-two who has been living in Dubai for four years, is the lady behind the gorgeous e-shop, Elli Junior.

As an Iranian expat who grew up in Sweden it didn’t take her long to realise that Dubai – and the UAE in general – was missing the amazing Swedish brands she was used to seeing. So, without any experience in importing or distribution, she started her own business and got in touch with all the brands she loved and always bought for her own children.

Now, it’s been two years since she started bringing her favourite Scandinavian brands to our doorstseps and business is going well. Design, quality and function, plus eco-friendliness and sustainability, are at the heart of her business and everything she sells – and you’ll find beloved brands such as Elodie Details, Geggamoja and JaBaDaBaDo on the store. Stylish and easy-to-clean bibs, teepee tents, lunch boxes and backpacks, as well as baby shower gifts and even strollers – she’s stocked everything from the newborn essentials to those gorgeous pieces you just want (nay, need) in your home and kids’ bedrooms.

Essentially, the Elli Junior motto is: “big differences for small people”. And that’s just what Elli Kasbi is doing every day. ellijunior.com

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A FA M I LY A F FA I R Pop star and actor Kimberley Walsh on turning her talents to kids clothing Wo r d s H E L E N BA RO N

K

imberley Walsh’s biography reads like a modern fairytale: plucky Yorkshire lass with dreams of stardom auditions for a TV talent show and doesn’t quite make the cut. But when another contestant is disqualified, she finds herself back in the running – and wins through to the final five.

The show was the UK’s Popstars: The Rivals, and the final five of which Walsh was one would win national fame as pop group Girls Aloud. It’s now 16 years since Walsh and her counterparts were fast-tracked to fame and five years since they announced their split with an arena tour and second greatest hits collection. Walsh has used the time since to focus on acting, with roles in TV’s Ackley Bridge and West End productions, including Shrek The Musical and Elf: The Musical. Now she’s branching out once again, this time into children’s fashion, with her Kimba Kids line of boys clothing available to buy through high street giant, Next, across the world.

Walsh’s own nickname – given to her by Girls Aloud bandmate Cheryl Cole – is the

40

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inspiration for the name. And the range was born of Walsh’s frustration with the options available for her own two sons, and features bold, playful designs for kids aged two to 14.

Here, we speak to her about the new venture, her inspirations and collaborating with her younger brother, Adam, on the designs.

Q What prompted you to design your own kids clothing line?

A It came from being a mum to two boys aged three and one. Initially when shopping for them I found the options a bit dull and uninspiring, especially for boys. Everything seemed either monochrome or nautical and I was after something more fun. My brother works in the clothing industry, so the collaboration seemed like a natural one. We both had the idea and he had the capability to help with design and putting the samples into production. This is a labour of love for us. We had the idea after I had Bobby, my first child, and it’s been in the pipeline since – it didn’t get going until he was one and then I had my second child, so it’s been in development for some time and wasn’t something we wanted to rush.

Q Tell us about the collaboration with Next.

A We’re launching exclusively with Next but

September 201 8

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fash io n & be a ut y

Q&A

~

“THERE’S PLENTY OF COLOUR BECAUSE THAT’S WHAT I FELT WAS MISSING”

~

like this. Everything else that I’ve done in my career has tended to go at 100mph. My brother and I have put our heart and soul into it, so although it’s not like everything is riding on it, it would be lovely if our hard work pays off. It is hard juggling work and motherhood, but with this project I could always take the boys into the studio – though I did tend to be less productive with them there! But it was handy when childcare lets you down and things like that.

KIMBA KIDS CLOTHES ARE AVAILABLE AT NEXT IN THE UAE

we’ve produced everything independently.

They were the first high street retailer to take the collection and have been really supportive throughout the process. I hope it’s not confusing as there are so many endorsements out there, but that’s not what we are.

Q How would you describe the first collection of Kimba Kids?

A I don’t put my kids in anything that’s not comfortable. We’re focusing on everyday wear; comfort and affordability. That’s what’s been the guiding force behind this, so many of the items have ended up being jersey.

We’ve got a brilliant factory and we’re really

happy with the quality of the clothes. There’s plenty of colour because that’s what I felt was missing from the market. I’m always taking inspiration from around me, be that Instagram, fashion or pattern trends. I enjoy the freedom with childrenswear, which means you don’t have to follow fashion quite so doggedly. There are certain signature shapes that I think we will keep because I find that when kids like something they want to wear it again and again.

Q How have you found the experience of working with family?

A I’ve loved being able to work on a project

Q How have you found life after Girls Aloud?

Do you think you’ll have more kids?

A I’ve done a lot of acting in the past. Ackley Bridge is a brilliant drama, filmed in Halifax, close to where I grew up. It’s nice to play characters that are a departure and I’m always looking at doing more acting. I’m doing a week’s residency of musical shows in Piccadilly, which is fun because I’ve enjoyed musical theatre since playing Princess Fiona in Shrek The Musical. That was easier before having kids though. I did Elf: The Musical when Bobby was only 18 months old, which was challenging, so I tend to opt for shorter runs at this point. It’s always fun to see what’s around the corner in my line of work! And as for having more kids, I don’t necessarily know that I feel done! I think you just have to see if you both naturally get to that point – I wouldn’t be forcing my partner into it! kimbakids.com September 201 8

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Leggings, AED65; Jacket, AED259

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CLASS HEROES The latest looks for kids from Sfera are perfect for that back-to-school feeling s f e r a . c o m /a e

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T-shirt, AED25; Denim jumpsuits, AED169

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T-shirt, AED65; Jeans, AED99; Jacket, AED129

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T-shirt, AED65; Denim skirt, AED79

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T-shirt, AED79; Trousers, AED79; Jacket, AED259

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mama’s

B E AU T Y NOTES From fragrances to lipsticks and bath time essentials, these are the season’s must-try products...

LUSH LIPS H O U S E O F R AWA N

Successful Kuwaiti beauty influencer and entrepreneur Rawan Bin Hussain has launched a line of lippy under her brand, House of Rawan.

“Rawan’s Essentials” is a five-piece liquid matte lipstick range with five shades to match your mood. AED59; houseofrawan.com

S P R AY O N HASK

Humid summer days means lots of hair washing, but dry shampoos are here to help. Hask, in particular, is lightweight, oil absorbing, neutralises odour, boosts volume and adds texture.

They’re available in a variety of scents and now in travel-sized bottles. Sorted. From AED16; glambeaute.com

Smoking Gun BARUTI

Did you know that “baruti” is the Greek word for “gunpowder”? It describes excessive character, bite and a certain edginess, we’re told. Well, at least in the context of Baruti perfumes and home fragrances, the full range of which is now available at Robinsons department store in Dubai. Prices vary; robinsons.me

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fash io n & bea ut y

Bath Buddy

MAMA

d& Trie ted Tes

H I M A L AYA

Packed with natural ingredients and free from harmful chemicals and parabens, Himalaya’s new, specially formulated Moisturising Baby Bath uses a non-tear formula infused with aloe vera, milk, olive and almond oil. It’ll keep the moisture in and reduce any post-bath skin dryness, so baby can sleep easy. From AED14.20; himalayaherbals.com

FOUR COW FARM This Australian skincare range has all the mums talking

FRESH AS FRUIT

Wo r d s F R A N C E S CA K I R BY

F

M O LT O N B R O W N

Vetiver and grapefruit underpin Molton Brown’s new collection that includes body wash, lotion and deodorant spray. It uses vetiver from Haiti to provide earthy base notes that clash with and complement the tangy grapefruit. From AED130; moltonbrown.ae

5 of t he b e st F RAG RA N C E S ATKINSONS Love in Idleness, AED667; perfumeryandco.com

BY TERRY Soleil Piquant, AED756; robinsons.me BDK PARFUMS Pas Ce Soir, AED728; robinsons.me

L’OCCITANE Terre De Lumiere Intense Fragrance, AED549; ae.loccitane.com

AIR-VAL Minions Eau De Toilette, AED72.45; glambeaute.com

our cows, no bull” is the tagline for Four Cow Farm, the Australian organic skincare line for families that’s recently gone global.

At one time, Four Cow Farm was part of a much larger dairy farm. Today, nestled in the hills of Blackhall Range in South East Queensland, the farm is so much more than that, including a home for the fabulous family skincare range.

It was all started by a midwife, mum and grandmother who wanted to make creams and balms that were as natural as possible for her grandchildren (one of whom had eczema). If you want a full breakdown of ingredients, just head to the brand’s website. They spare no details when it comes to what is (and is not) in their products. You can also learn more about how everything is sustainably made and cruelty-free (it’s all PETA-certified).

At the moment, we don’t go anywhere without the Calendula Remedy, a soothing cream that works on everything from burns to nappy rashes and dry lips.

You’ll find Four Cow Farm products all over the UAE. Just visit the Stockists section on the website to find out more. fourcowfarm.com

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food & f itness N E W H E A LT H Y C L A S S E S A N D FO O D O P T I O N S p . 5 3 • WO N D E R F U L W E A N I N G R EC I P E S p . 5 4 S C H O O L LU N C H B OX I D E A S p . 5 6 • T I P S FO R A V EG A N P R EG N A N CY p .6 0

Tone Up •THE PAD •

Yasmin Karachiwala has brought her famous fitness brand to the region at The PAD Pilates and Dance studio, located on The Greens, Dubai.

Yasmin is the secret behind the toned bodies of well-known Bollywood celebrities. The new studio will offer a number of classes for parents, kids and expecting families. @ThePADDXB

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Award winning products created by orthodontists, designed for babies.

soother teething ring

Oral care starts at birth

toxin-free

toothbrush

There may be no sign of teeth yet but they are there, waiting to make an appearance, hidden away in tiny gums.

CURAPROX Baby works hand in hand with mother nature to support the natural development of your baby’s mouth from their jaw line and teeth to their breathing.

Did you know that 70% of children who use a standard pacifier develop an open or cross bite in later life? The CURAPROX Baby pacifier has been designed to promote the correct development of your baby’s jaw keeping your baby happy and giving you peace of mind.

So ensure your little ones get the very best start in Oral Care with CURAPROX Baby.

CURAPROX.indd 1 Curaprox_Absolutely_Baby_210x260_305_18.indd 1

When you buy online at curaprox.co.uk

Use offer code AB25 30/01/2018 24/01/2018 13:49 16:54

fo o d & fitnes s

HE ALTH

Hang Out •FITNESS FIRST•

Swing Yoga classes are now available at eight Fitness First studios across the UAE. If you’re injured, or a yoga newbie, then it’s worth trying out this popular form, which helps you go deeper into your poses without strain. Satish Thirumurthy Ramaswamy, a platinum trainer and instructor at Fitness First, says: “[It’s] the perfect beginner’s starter class and helps correct mistakes in the body.” fitnessfirstme.com

mama’s

WELLN ES S N OTES Healthy food and fitness solutions for mindful mums and munchkins

LET’S SHOP

JUST JUICE

SOUKARE .COM

WILD & THE MOON

Dubai-based souKare.com has added organic health products from big-name brands to its portfolio. This includes sugar-, gluten-, dairy-, GMO-free goods, plus items for vegans and those with any other specific dietary requirements. souKare.com

Dubai’s friendly vegan café and store has launched Detox Programmes, designed to help you reboot, cleanse and purify.

The juices and milks are coldpressed each day to preserve enzymes, vitamins and minerals.

Prices vary; wildandthemoon.ae

Buy new activewear

E

xpecting mamas – are you having trouble fitting into your workout wear now that you (and baby) are piling on the pounds?

Well, we’ve found the activewear selection on Middle East-based site MumsandBumps.com to be extremely helpful throughout the trimesters.

One of the latest additions is the Maternity Belt for Running Mums

by Gabrialla (AED250), which is a medium-strength, six-inch support belt with compression design that helps you stabilise your hips and reduce lower back pressure.

Now you’ve got no excuse not to exercise anymore. mumsandbumps.com September 201 8 | 53

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ustralia’s favourite cookbook author, Donna Hay, has a knack for taking basic ingredients and turning them into brilliant dishes. And her new book, Basics to Brilliance Kids, is proof of that. She’s created more than 200 beautiful pages of internationally inspired recipes that work for every family occasion. We try out three of them…

Mean Green Pesto Serves: 4-6 people

Ingredients

• 2 small heads broccoli (500g), roughly chopped • 1/3 cup (80ml) extra virgin olive oil • 375g orecchiette (or your favourite pasta) • 1/3 cup (45g) slivered almonds or pine nuts • 1 ½ cups basil leaves • 1 cup mint leaves (a fresh twist) • 1 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves • 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon rind • ¼ cup (60ml) lemon juice • 1 cup (80g) finely grated parmesan • sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

Directions

BA S I C S TO

Brilliance Donna Hay shares three of her newest recipes that’ll satisfy even the fussiest of little eaters

Wo r d s K AT Y G I L L E T R e c i p e s D O N N A H AY P h o t o g r a p h y C H R I S C O U RT, W I L L I A M M E P P E M 2 0 1 7

1 Place the broccoli in a food processor and pulse until it resembles grains of rice (try 5 bursts of 3 seconds each). 2 Place half the oil in a large, deepsided, non-stick frying pan over medium heat.

Add the broccoli and cook, stirring with a spatula, for 3-4 minutes or until it’s almost soft but still bright green. Remove from the heat. 3 Cook the pasta in a large saucepan of salted, boiling water, stirring once with a spatula, for 8-10 minutes or until just soft. 4 Place the almonds, basil, mint, parsley, lemon rind and juice, the parmesan and the remaining oil in the food processor and process into a rough paste. Pour it into the pan with the broccoli, scraping the sides with a spatula. 5 Carefully reserve ½ cup (125ml) of the pasta’s cooking liquid. Place a colander in the sink and, wearing oven gloves, pour in the pasta to drain. Place the hot pasta and the reserved liquid into the pan with the pesto. Place over low heat, add some salt and pepper and stir until heated through and combined. 6 Divide the pasta between serving bowls and top with some extra parmesan to serve, if you like.

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fo o d & fitnes s

RECIPES

Ricotta & Zucchini Cannelloni Serves: 4-6 people

Ingredients

• 1½ cups (180g) frozen peas • 2 eggs • 1 ½ cups (360g) fresh firm ricotta • 2 cups (50g) baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped • ¼ cup finely chopped mint • 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon rind • sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste • 3-4 courgettes, thinly sliced lengthways using a mandolin (you’ll need about 24 long slices) • 2 cups (500ml) tomato purée (passata) • ½ cup (50g) grated mozzarella

Chocolate Peanut Slices Makes 20

Directions 1 Preheat oven to 180°C. 2 Place the peas in a colander and rinse them under hot running water to thaw. Drain well and place in a big bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, roughly mash the peas. Crack the eggs on top and add the ricotta, spinach, mint, lemon rind, salt and pepper. Mix well with a spatula.

3 Place 1 heaped tablespoon of the pea mixture at one end of each slice of courgette. Roll up the slices to enclose the filling. 4 Pour the purée into a 22cm x 30cm (2-litre-capacity) baking dish. Nestle the courgette rolls into the dish snugly. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and bake for 30 minutes or until golden and cooked through, then allow to cool a little before spooning onto serving plates.

Ingredients

• 20 soft fresh dates (400g), pitted • 1/3 cup (95g) natural smooth peanut butter • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (always yum) • ½ cup (70g) roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped • 80g raw cacao chocolate or dark chocolate, melted • 1 cup (15g) puffed brown rice (crisp and puffy)

Directions 1 Line a 10cm x 20cm loaf tin with non-stick baking paper, leaving 4cm of paper overhanging

on the long sides (this will help you later!).

2 Place the dates, peanut butter and vanilla in a food processor and process for 2-4 minutes or until the mixture turns into a paste. You might need to scrape down the sides of the processor with a spatula between pulses, just to make sure everything combines. 3 Transfer the date mixture to a big bowl. Add the puffed rice and peanuts. Mix well with a spatula to combine.

4 Press the mixture into the prepared tin, using the back of a spoon to help you smooth it (rub the spoon with a little oil if it’s a bit sticky). Pour the melted chocolate over the slice and spread it with the back of the spoon to coat. Place in the fridge for 20-30 minutes or until set. 5 Use the paper to help you lift the slice from the tin. Carefully heat a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, then cut the slice into squares (the hot knife cuts the fudgy slice more easily). Place them in the fridge until ready to eat.

Basics to Brilliance Kids

by Donna Hay, AED110.50; uae .kinokuniya .com

September 201 8

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On Trend TURN TO PAGE 39 TO FIND FIVE OF THE LATEST, MOST STYLISH LUNCHBAGS ON THE MARKET.

Box of

Tricks

On lunchbox duty as the kids head back to school?

Then you’ll need this advice from two foodie experts on what nutrition-packed goodies to send them off with...

W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

A

s the kids head back to nursery and school, many us will be back on lunchbox duty, packing up the sandwiches, fruit, crisps – whatever’s your bag – day after day. To make sure you’re feeding them the good stuff, we’ve spoken to two experts about what’s healthy, tasty and easy. It’s time to break through the monotony and get a bit more creative…

Halima Jumani This super mum-of-three is also the director of Kibsons, the Dubai-based grocery delivery service. Here’s her best advice on how to approach the dreaded lunchbox…

Sta rt a s yo u m e a n to g o o n

 Have a chat with your child to find out what they do and don’t want to see in their lunchboxes. Then, as the year progresses, get them more involved in how their lunches are 56

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LUNCH IDE AS

British Nutrition Foundation Hailing from the UK, this 50-year-old institution exists to deliver authoritative, evidence-based information on food and nutrition for a healthy lifestyle. Its experts have compiled this list of great advice on how to pack in all the nutrients your kids need. made – whether it’s picking ingredients during the weekly grocery shop or lending a hand making sandwiches; these little steps give them a sense of ownership over the lunches.

I f it ai n ’ t b ro ke , d o n ’ t f ix it

 This rings true for lunchboxes. There’s still space to introduce new ideas. Take one traditional element of the box and change the flavour to try and expand your child’s palate.

If they come home from school and report that the newcomer was a great success, then perfect. If it didn’t go down well, that’s fine – by not making drastic changes, your little one was still able to enjoy some familiar favourites.

Avo i d s o g gy sa n dwi c h e s  There’s little worse for a child (beyond homework) than opening their lunchbox to find their sandwich has turned soggy. The solution lies in construction – the trick is to protect the bread from the fillings that have high water content (think tomatoes and cucumbers). Surround those ingredients with meat, cheese or lettuce, and the sandwich will stay in tip-top condition until lunchtime.

B u i ld th e ba s e with sta rc h y fo o d s

 The main part of the lunchbox should include starchy foods such as rice, pasta, bread, couscous, wraps, pitta, potatoes or chapatti. Choosing wholegrain varieties (wholemeal bread, brown pasta and skin-on potatoes) will provide more fibre and a wider range of nutrients. Many children are getting well below the recommended intake of fibre, which is important not only for digestive health but for helping to keep them healthy in later life. Wholegrains also tend to have a lower glycemic index, meaning they release their energy more slowly – perfect for fuelling children for a busy afternoon at school.

~

“TAKE ONE TRADITIONAL ELEMENT AND CHANGE THE FLAVOUR TO EXPAND YOUR CHILD’S PALATE”

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D o u b le u p at d i n n e r

 If pasta, pulses and grains or a tray of roasted vegetables are on the menu, increase the quantities you cook so that some leftovers can be used for the next day’s lunchbox. It saves time, effort and makes for a deliciously easy lunch.

D o n ’ t ov e rth i n k it

 Don’t feel like the lunchbox always has to be a perfect display of planning, excitement and flavour. Remember children think about their lunch a lot less than parents do. Make it nutritious, try to make it delicious, but don’t feel obliged to perform cartwheels every day.

Leave that to the little ones. kibsons.com September 201 8

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LUNCH IDE AS

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“IF YOU CAN SQUEEZE MORE FRUIT AND VEGETABLES INTO THE LUNCHBOX, THEN DO!”

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F r u it a n d v e g – j u st e at m o r e !

 Adults and children alike should be aiming for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Why? So our bodies can get enough essential vitamins and minerals – such as folate, vitamin C and potassium – which are crucial for healthy development.

Lunchtime is a great opportunity to pack in these all-important nutrients and, as well as providing fruit and vegetable sticks as a snack option, you should include as many vegetables as possible in the main dish of the lunchbox.

Add mushrooms, peas or tomatoes into a pasta dish, or peppers, sweetcorn or shredded carrot into a wrap, and always include some salad in sandwiches. If you think you can squeeze more fruit and vegetables into the lunchbox, then do!

P le nt y o f p rote i n fo r g row i n g c h i ld r e n

 Protein is essential for growth, maintenance and repair of the body – something children are experiencing continuously as they grow up. Therefore a source of protein should be eaten at every lunchtime. Include a variety of foods such as: beans, lentils, pulses, fish, eggs and meat. Use these as sandwich fillings, in couscous, or in a pasta or rice salad.

Top Tip: Try and include (sustainable) fish (especially oily types like salmon) once or twice a week – you could try canned salmon or tuna mixed with a pasta or rice salad or as a sandwich filing.

A wate r fa ll o f d r i n ks

 Always pack a drink! Younger children may be more likely to get dehydrated than adults as they have a higher proportion of body water, and are also less heat tolerant.

Therefore, encouraging children to drink fluids regularly is important. Water and milk should be lunchbox staples and you could also give your child fruit juice or a smoothie.

However, due to the high sugar content, the latter should be limited to a combined total of 150ml a day and can be diluted with water to make them go further. nutrition.org.uk September 201 8

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ore and more people are turning to a healthier, plantbased diet and ethical vegan lifestyle. And while everyone eschewing animal products must keep an eye on their intake of certain vitamins and minerals (we’re looking at you, B12), pregnant women need to be more aware of what they’re eating and absorbing. So Anne Marie Narboni, the holistic ambassador and nutrition expert at Dubai food and juice shop Wild & The Moon, shares exactly what you need to bear in mind…

WILD & THE MOON IN DUBAI IS BASED AT ALSERKAL AVENUE

Plants for

Pregnancy Wild & The Moon’s holistic ambassador and naturopathic medicine expert shares her top nutrition tips for expecting mamas on a vegan diet…

Wo r d s A N N E M A R I E N A R B O N I N D

juicing

resh, organic juices are packed with vitamins and minerals, and best drunk on an empty stomach at least one hour before eating and two hours post-meal. During pregnancy, the body requires extra calories, protein, vitamins and minerals in order to support the baby’s growth and to allow for changes in the mother’s body. Important considerations in pregnancy include: calories, protein, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, vitamin D, zinc and folate.

Consuming juice throughout the day is a beneficial and easy way to make sure you’re giving your body (and your baby) what it needs. I recommend quality cold-pressed juices like Wild & The Moon’s Tiger Juice, which boosts energy and contains antiinflammatory and antioxidant ingredients.

F

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fo o d & fitness VEGANISM

protein

TRY SIPPING ON JUICES TO GET THOSE EXTRA NUTRIENTS THROUGH THE DAY

or 25- to 50-year-olds, you’ll need an extra 10 grams of protein while you’re pregnant. It’s 14 grams extra for 19- to 24-year-olds. Examples of proteinrich foods you can add to your vegan diet are plain, enriched soy milk; tofu; tempeh; cooked beans; nuts and nut butters. Making sure you eat a wide variety of nutritious foods will help pregnant women consume the right levels of protein they need each day.

F

V I TA M I N B 1 2

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itamin B12 is used for tissue synthesis and requirements are increased during pregnancy. While there are no known natural vegan sources of the vitamin, you can get it from taking in fortified soy milks, fortified tofu and fortified ready-to-eat cereals, as well as vegetarian support formula nutritional yeast. This is a critical nutrient, which does an incredible amount for you (like help make your DNA and red blood cells, for example), so if your diet does not include these foods every day then use a prenatal vitamin that includes B12. The recommended daily allowance increases to 2.6mcg per day during pregnancy, as it’s needed to create new maternal and fetal cells, and to prevent neural tube defects.

V

“DRINKING JUICE IS A BENEFICIAL AND EASY WAY TO MAKE SURE YOU’RE GIVING YOUR BODY (AND YOUR BABY) WHAT IT NEEDS”

so all expecting mums need to eat foods rich in iron, such as leafy green vegetables (spinach or kale, for example), dried beans and legumes, and dried fruits. Between 30mg to 60mg per day is recommended. Also, eating iron-rich foods with citrus fruits (that contain vitamin C) can increase iron absorption. Wild & The Moon’s Love Bar is an on-the-go snack that’s handy to carry around with you, to make sure you’re getting enough iron in your diet. It contains cacao, date, maca, salt and vanilla, and works to boost your mood and endurance.

~

IRON

ron is needed for increased maternal blood volume and to form the baby’s blood. Anemia can be a problem during any pregnancy, regardless of your diet,

I

C a l c i u m / V i ta m i n D

alcium and vitamin D work together for bone and teeth health and development. Calcium absorption increases in pregnancy and may compensate for increased needs. Pregnant women should eat four or more servings of calcium-rich foods daily, including some green leafy vegetables, and calcium-fortified tofu, soy milk, and orange juice. Calcium supplements – on days your appetite is poor – are also an option. Meanwhile, Vitamin D is found in fortified soy milk and fortified breakfast cereals. A recent study found women taking 4,000IU of vitamin D daily saw the greatest benefits when preventing pre-term labour/ births and infections. To get a quick dose of both, I would recommend Wild & The Moon’s Blue Moon or Simply Green Smoothie.

C

ZINC

inc is necessary for growth and development in all human beings, but your needs increase during pregnancy. Food is the best way to obtain zinc during pregnancy, and also the safest.

Good sources include peas, beans, brown rice, spinach, nuts, tofu and tempeh. If you take a supplement, do not exceed 40mg per day.

Z

F O L AT E

olate is important even before you know you’re pregnant, so all women of childbearing age should be getting at least 400mcg (micrograms) per day. The need for folate increases in pregnancy, to 600mcg per day. Dark leafy greens, whole grains, and orange juice are rich sources of folate. But it’s good to know that vegan diets are often already high in folate. You can get an extra dose, however, through a Dragon Bowl that’s made with a bunch of fruits, coconut and quinoa. Dragon fruit contains a surprising number of phytonutrients, antioxidants, carotene, protein, vitamin C, polyunsaturated (good) fatty acids and B vitamins. It also contains calcium, iron and phosphorus. So if you can get that into your diet, definitely do!

F

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TAKE A TIME OUT

ANGELA MÜLLER-HABIG POSING IN SRI LANKA. PHOTOGRAPHY: HEATHER BONKER

Absolutely Mama quizzes yoga instructor Angela Müller-Habig about her asana practise and the new Sri Lankan retreat she’s organising W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

I ACCOMMODATION ON THE SRI LANKAN RETREAT

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“EVERY T H I N G IS SIMPLE A ND CASUAL , A ND SU CH A BE AUT I FUL CONT RAST TO OUR BUSY UA E LIFEST Y LE”

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t was burnout and her battle with anxiety in the summer of 2011 that led Angela Müller-Habig into a career in yoga. “I’d go to asana practise sometimes twice a day because it gave me a safe space in which to observe my inner emotional landscape,” she tells Absolutely Mama. Since then, she’s become a successful yoga teacher, becoming well known in Abu Dhabi for her Yin Class Stretch ‘n’ Snooze, as well as Myofascial Rolling Massage Workshops. Now, she’s working with Bodytree Studio on a retreat in Hiriketiya Bay, Sri Lanka, which will take place from 9 to 16 November 2018.

Before she jets off, we find out more about the trip, her teaching style and why she thinks yoga can help mums.

Q What is it about yoga that inspires you so much?

A Yoga can be a tool for understanding your triggers – it offers simple metaphors that make it easy for you to recognise patterns. For example, does learning a new pose make you feel insecure? Excited? Fearful? Does

being outside of your zone of comfort bring out frustration? Doubt? Anger?

How does your inner critic react when you still cannot flow smoothly through a transition or into an inversion despite so much practise? What is your inner voice telling you? You realise that all emotions are valid and need their space to unfold. I learned to stop categorising them as “good” or “bad” emotions, and not to fear them but instead to let them wash through me as they came.

Yoga taught me the power of mindfulness, of becoming a loving observer. We are often unable to control triggers in the outer world, but I do believe we can attempt to

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fo o d & fit n es s YOGA

understand and guide our inner reactions into a more healing and constructive output. Simply being reactionary to the world traps us into loops of repletion and suffering.

PRACTISE YOGA TWICE DAILY IN SRI LANKA WITH ANGELA

Q What’s your style of teaching?

A Loving, playful, casual. I’m there to help you understand what serves your body, your energy, your emotional and intellectual needs.

Q What can people expect from the yoga sessions on the retreat?

A I teach Yin and Restorative Yoga, Power Flow and Myofascial Release. My Power Flow classes build up to a flowing choreography with varying degrees of difficulty; they are sweaty, dancey, smooth flowing and pack a good challenge. Yin is soothing, meditative, focused, healing, and full of gentleness.

Classes are based on seasons, the moon calendar and other planetary alignments, and the mood of the group – my teaching is intuitive and the only thing I really prepare is lovingly curated playlists.

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“S I M P LY B E I N G R E AC T I O N ARY TO T H E WO R LD T RAPS US I N TO LO O PS O F R E P LE T I O N AN D S U F F E R I N G”

Q What about the rest of the retreat?

A For the retreat I have a special theme each day that will carry through both Yin and Vinyasa Flow.

You’ll have mat time mornings and evenings and one Acro Yoga afternoon built for team spirit and laughter.

There will be plenty of “me” time to quiet the mind and eat fresh, local food to nourish the body. Our package also includes a day trip to historic Galle and neighbouring beaches, cosy movie nights, a traditional Sri Lankan cooking class and even a free hour of surf among many other goodies.

Q What kind of person would it appeal to?

A This retreat would appeal to beachlovers, and those looking to unplug, unwind, and connect with nature. It’s a very mellow, hidden, unexplored

location with a Yoga Shala nestled into palm trees and the ocean just a few metres away. I chose this location because I have been there twice and fallen in love with Hiriketiya Bay. The waves and the people are friendly, there are plenty of short trips available and the chance to sink into absolute beach bliss – sun, sea, surf and yoga for days. Everything is simple and casual, and such a beautiful contrast to our busy UAE lifestyle.

~

Q Why should busy, modern mums fit yoga into their day?

A I often observe mums overextending themselves; giving, organising, supporting, guiding and often not taking enough time to nurture themselves back into a state of abundance. When we have tranquillity inside we are less fazed by the chaos around us and I think that’s a vital tool. Not only will you be calmer and better equipped for temper tantrums, spilled juice boxes and lost shoes, but you will also be passing this emotional equilibrium to your kids. Your children are constantly mirroring your reactions and if they observe you being able to take three deep

breaths before losing yourself into frustration, this will be an invaluable tool for their future. Yoga teaches you not to take challenges – especially the unexpected ones – as a personal attack against your goal-setting, but simply accept what is, to stay out of judgement and do the best you can without obsessing over the outcome.

It’s a path to self-forgiveness, kindness and understanding that we all struggle with. No one has life figured out.

T H E R E T R E AT Angela Müller-Habig and Bodytree Studio have organised a wonderful yoga retreat in Hiriketiya Bay, Sri Lanka, from 9 to 16 November, 2018. Different types of airconditioned accommodation is available, and there will be morning meditation, Vinyasa Flow and Yin classes throughout the day.

Private sessions, massages, reiki, and Pilates are all available on request, too. On top of that you’ll get a free surf session; a bespoke menu of vegan, vegetarian or nonvegetarian food for breakfast and dinner; airport transfers; a day trip to Galle; and VAT is included. Prices start from AED4,240 per person. bodytreestudio.com

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am Cam Copenhagen’s core originates from the love of babies and children, and a belief that they only deserve the best.

The strong values of Cam Cam Copenhagen are to create sustainable, functional and high quality products with a focus on Scandinavian and timeless design. All products are organic and free of chemicals and toxins and produced under controlled and safe conditions. Cam Cam Copenhagen is a GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards) certified company, which is the world’s leading certification standard for organic textiles including both ecological and social criteria. Cam Cam Copenhagen’s purpose is not only to create a beautiful children’s universe, but also to make a positive difference in the world for generations to come.

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home & interiors N E W I N STO R E S p .6 6 • AU T U M N T R E N D S W I T H H O M E A N D S O U L p .6 8 LE A R N T H E A R T O F Q U I E T PAT T E R N S p .70

Colour is Life •ZARA HOME•

The Art of Colour – that’s the name of Zara Home’s Pre-Fall 2018 collection of homeware. It celebrates the hues that make our homes; whether bright or bizarre, subtle or stark, it is through colour that we express our personalities and find a slice of happiness through décor. Prices vary; zarahome.com/ae

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mama’s

DECOR NOTES Gorgeous items for new mamas and mamas-to-be with a keen eye for style...

we love

LET ’S ROCK ELLI JUNIOR

We don’t think there will ever be a time when little girls don’t love mythical unicorns.

That’s why this plush rocker should be pride of place in your princess’s bedroom while magic and fairytales are still beloved. AED749; ellijunior.com

A L L T H AT GLITTERS A L H U Z A I FA FURNITURE

Inject some warmth and glamour into your home with gold accessories. Metals are in – pick one or go all out by mixing and matching to create a sophisticated and eclectic interior. Prices vary; alhuzaifa.com

Now Open JYSK

Danish retail chain JYSK (you say “yusk”) has announced the opening of two new stores in Dubai, following the success of its debut in Umm Suqeim earlier this year. The City Centre Mirdif branch opened on 30 August while Burjuman Mall’s store will follow this winter. jysk.ae

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Sleepy Head

SHOPPING

nd Bra us Foc

KO N G E S S LØJ D

Let your little one snuggle up with this cute sleeping rabbit in light rose. It’s made of 100% organic cotton with natural kapok filling by Denmark-based design company Konges Sløjd. It’d make a lovely birthday gift that can be treasured forever.

AED185; thebowerycompany.com

THE BOWERY COMPANY Find furniture infused with Scandi-style and industrial edge

SQUEAKY KEEN GROHE

Make shower time extra-special with GROHE’s state-of-the-art Euphoria SmartControl. It features multijet showerheads, an easy-to-use push and turn control unit, as well as various spray types so you can regulate the pressure.

It also looks pretty slick.

Wo r d s F R A N C E S CA K I R BY

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Prices vary; grohe.com

5 o f t he b e st DÉ C OR I T E M S

AL HUZAIFA FURNITURE Ornament, AED1,095; alhuzaifa.com

GIGGLES & DIMPLES Sweet Dreams Cloud Money Box, AED60; gigglesanddimples.me

ZARA HOME Vase, AED149; zarahome.com/ae

MAISONS DU MONDE Gold vase, AED105; maisonsdumonde.com

FIONA WALKER Flamingo head wall mount, AED400; tribedubai.com

e’re not short of home stores here in the UAE, but the gorgeous, Instagrammable Scandinavian style has still yet to take a firm hold. Since 2014, however, expat Christiane Nasr Daou, who founded The Bowery Company, has been trying to change that.

The Dubai-based design store was named after the Bowery Avenue, the oldest thoroughfare on Manhattan Island, and aims to offer affordable yet luxurious furniture that infuses Scandinavian style and industrial edge.

“We aim to bring back a design age that focuses on manufacturing, mechanical ingenuity and appreciating raw; something a little bit nostalgic, a little bit about old New York, a little bit comforting.”

There are more than 35 globally renowned brands available; Bloomingville, Nordal, Normann Copenhagen, Brooklyn Candle Studio – to name a few. Last year, they also launched a Little Ones collection that focuses on whimsical toys and décor, all with a Scandi vibe.

We could spend all day getting lost in the gorgeous selection. thebowerycompany.com

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Au t u m n

FA LLS The new season brings new trends, so Absolutely Mama asks Carol Sukkar, owner of Dubai interiors store Home and Soul, to break it down for us…

Wo r d s CA RO L S U K K A R I m a g e s N AT E L E E C O C K S

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h o me & interior s TRENDS

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Jet black

“USE MODERN ACCESSORIES TO ADD A NEW LEASE OF LIFE TO YOUR ABODE”

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 Any monochrome fan will love this trend. It’s all about the black accessories. Yet, if you’re not a huge fan of having too much black in your home, it’s also very easy to add small blocks here and there.

Yel low t one s

 This easy-on-the-eye colour is a wonderful hue for the new season. It adds a touch of warmth and colour to your home and works perfectly alongside and layered with the other key trends.

R ich colours

 Ultraviolet is the Pantone Colour of the Year and it’s a great, bright shade to add to your home. Your dining room chairs are always the best way to add that little bit of colour and, in particular, our Douglas chair really ticks all of the new trend boxes with the jewel colour and gold hardware.

Rat t a n ac c ents

I

t’s that time of year again, when the new, shiny Autumn/Winter trends will start to appear on Pinterest boards across the globe. It’s also the time to add a touch of freshness into your home. At the moment, the market is flooded with plenty of new and exciting designs and items, but it’s important to know how to use them correctly – to avoid overloading your house or ending up with clashing styles.

Incorporating new trends into your home can be a little overwhelming at times – especially if you don’t have the budget to completely revamp the house regularly – but, by using modern accessories, you can add a new lease of life to your abode in a cost-effective way. So, here’s my advice on how you should adopt this season’s newest and most attractive trends...

ADD ELEMENTS OF JET BLACK TO STAY ON-TREND INJECT SOME NATURAL MATERIALS INTO YOUR HOME

Mo dern neut ra l s

 This is a combination of different elements that creates a beautiful and simple style, with the emphasis on natural-looking furniture. We stock lots of wonderful products at Home and Soul Dubai that complement this key trend – from rattan chairs to lights and home accessories – that are quick fi xes to the modern neutral trend.

 Rattan isn’t going anywhere yet.

Being based in the UAE means we get the glorious weather in the winter, which makes it ideal to have stylish garden furniture, too. The natural material takes any interior vignette from simple to statement-worthy. Each item looks great with layers – blankets, cushions and throws – and really gives that boho Bali feel all year round. homeandsouldubai.com

KEEP IT MODERN NEUTRAL AND ADD ELEMENTS OF METAL

Bron ze

 As much as this was a key trend throughout the summer season, it’s pretty much staying put for the upcoming season too. I particularly love this trend as it just adds that lovely, finished look to a room without it being over-the-top. For example, we currently stock bronze mirrors, consoles and coffee tables, which can either be styled on their own or grouped together for maximum impact.

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Q U P A T

I E T E R

ST YLE

T N

Incorporating pattern into your home can work as part of a “gentle” scheme. Here we focus on the living room

I

W o r d s A B I G A I L E D WA R D S Ima g e s A LU N CA LLE N DE R

n this age of maximum communication life can be overwhelming, and introducing pattern can feel as if it will simply increase the noise and confusion. But when chosen carefully, pattern can be as functional as it is decorative. Pattern can contribute to environments that promote healing, wellbeing and relaxation.

The living room is generally where we relax, the visual mood should be soft and comfort is key. With many disparate pieces of furniture, coffee tables, side tables, sofas and chairs, this room can easily look jumbled and cluttered. Pattern can give a focal point. A wallpapered wall behind a sofa can create the colour scheme for a room, or a rug can zone the space, linking all of the random pieces of furniture together. Pile sofas with textiles, patterned blankets and throws to wrap up in and plump cushions to sink in to.

Frame windows with gently decorated curtains, to create a nurturing environment and to link back to the textiles used on the sofa. Patterns don’t need to match. A colour palette that is repeated throughout the room, contrasting designs that enhance one another, or patterns that blend together will create a flow that gives consistency.

M ATC H I NG PAT TE R N S

T

he practise of having a room of matching wallpaper, curtains and upholstery is becoming more popular again and Birgit Morgensten has a simplified version of this look in her home (see image overleaf). A wall of Gräser wallpaper stretches the length of the room, with the large central window framed by curtains of the same fabric. When the curtains are closed the pattern flows across the full wall uninterrupted and when they are open the view outside is framed by the pattern. The simple upholstery and white walls stop the matching pattern being overwhelming, creating a very peaceful room. Leading off from this space is a little reading area. Birgit found two little stools in the street and reupholstered them in different prints of her fabrics. “I wanted to place them next to each other, and keep a harmonious colour theme, but the shades are varied to keep it more interesting”.

“ PATTE RN S THAT BL E N D TOGE THE R CRE ATE A FLOW – THEY DON ’ T N E E D TO MATCH” September 201 8 | 7 1

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LAY E R E D PAT TE R N S

L

L AY E R E D PAT T E R N S

ayering pattern upon pattern needn’t create the “patterning headache” Voysey refers to. By keeping the colour tones in a similar palette, the designs can blend into each other, creating layers of warmth without feeling cluttered. In my living room (see left), I already had Brambleweb wallpaper on the wall and had recently upholstered my 1950’s sofa in Bird linen for a shoot. I was worried that afterwards I would have to redecorate, that they would be too much together but the watercolour pink tones in Bird, reflected the pink tinged grey of Brambleweb and the difference in scale between the patterns mean they stand alone without being isolated. And mixing monochrome patterns and furniture with contrasting designs in soft colours will also add atmosphere and warmth. Daniel Heath’s living room is an eclectic mix of Daniel’s designs, blended in with vintage pieces. The small space could be chaotic but a tiny sofa has been chosen to nestle into an alcove to maximise space and mustard tones run throughout. The textures of the rug and the woven sofa keep the room interesting and the warm hues of the wooden sofa, table and shelf tie the space together. Daniel says, “I am trying to be a bit more curated in the things that I select. You can end up with a hotchpotch of stuff, which can be charming, but living in a small space in London I have to be restrained. London is busy and frenetic as it is and our house is becoming more of a refuge from that busyness, and the hectic pace of everyday life.”

RELAXED

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h o me & inter i or s

ST YLE

M AT C H I N G PAT T E R N S

R E LA X E D

S

hannan Camanaro’s love of the ocean is clear to see in the seating area of her urban loft in New York. The watery coastal blues of the Eskayel wallpaper are echoed in the super laidback blue leather sofa. “It’s always scary to commit to a pattern because the idea of a clean blank wall is so appealing but once you commit and then you see pictures of the bare wall without the pattern it looks so cold and unfinished. Pattern can really complete a room and it’s okay to mix it up.” The assorted patterns in varying tones of blue are mixed with a shaggy cream rug and faux fur throw,

adding layers of comfort and texture to make this a space that invites lounging. The timeless blue and white colour scheme of Emma Von Bromsen’s living room is a classic combination.

Emma’s crane design is used as wallpaper on the walls and again on the cushions. This could look too matchy-matchy but by mixing in her mackerel design and a patterned throw, the room becomes modern and relaxed. The rich indigo tones of the textiles keep the overall appearance cohesive and the linen of the traditional sofa has a comfortable lived-in look, the plain natural colourway gives space to the intensity of the patterns, making for a very restful room.

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MONOCHROME

U PHOL STE RY

ST YLE

W

hen Kim Rosen is designing patterns for Fayce she tries to picture what she would want in her own house. “I like things that are not overpowering, I don’t want something to be a focal point. I like décor to blend in with my stuff. I have a variety of different types of pieces in my home that don’t necessarily go together but they all work because there is a subtle palette.” She keeps things neutral with the occasional pop of colour. Mixing patterns to an extent but not too many crazy designs together. This accent chair upholstered in Gather has been paired with a vintage rug but as the rest of the furnishings and décor are so simple the look is restrained.

MONO C H ROM E

V

anessa and Brendan of Mineheart live in a 1960s house and have added a bit of cosiness and warmth to the clean lines of the architecture with their Almost White wallpaper. Their Loveletter wallpaper behind the faded leather sofa has a sense of history to it; the pattern consists of elegant handwritten love notes from a bygone era, a rarity in these days of email and text messages.

The romantic time-worn charm adds a sense of stillness to their home, emphasised by the combination of a distressed leather sofa and their contemporary take on traditional cushion designs.

The open plan space is zoned with three different

Extract taken from

QUIET PATTERN

by Abigail Edwards, published by Clearview Books

U PH O L STERY

monochrome wallpapers, all lined up next to each other but defined by the wide central chimney breast. The seating area here has a romantic faded damask design, happily contrasted with the clean lines of the furniture but the space is unified by the monochrome pattern in the decorative rug on the floor, which brings the room together with a repetitive curation of delicate pattern. “We generally like walls to be quite bright and white,” says Brendan. “With dark patterned walls you feel like you can’t hang anything on top, that isn’t the case with the bleached out versions of these designs, they make the house feel light. We like wood and natural materials but if you mix that with pattern and too many other materials, it becomes too much. Our style is quite simple.”

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•THE RITZ- CARLTON , KOH SAMUI •

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escapes

INSPIRATION

Dreamy Desert

• Q a s r A l S a r a b D e s e r t R e s o r t • Don’t have time for a full-on holiday? You can always escape for the day to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, where there’s a special offer on a one-day desert retreat. Rates start from AED229 per person and include 20% off on activities. While you’re there you can relax at the spa, dine at one of the lovely restaurants, or let the children run amok in the kids’ club.

Or all of the above. anantara.com

mama’s

TR AVEL N OTES Fantastic kids’ clubs, adventurous African retreats and a carrier with a difference...

NEW HOTEL

STAY CLOSE

•One&Only•

•ErgoBaby•

From October, the brand-new One&Only Nyungwe House opens its doors. It’s sat right next to a rainforest in the mountainous landscapes of Rwanda, offering families a relaxing and animaltastic adventure in Africa. oneandonlyresorts.com

The ErgoBaby 360 Cool Air Mesh is an ergonomic carrier that holds tired children from newborn up to the age of four in a variety of positions. Plus the mesh fabric makes sure it doesn’t get too hot. AED749; @fivelittleducks

3 LUXE RESORTS WITH KIDS’ CLUBS

Almyra

Terre Blanche

CYPRUS

PROVENCE , FRANCE

Martinhal Resorts

This contemporary resort offers amazing amenities for families – not least the Baby Go Lightly service, which allows parents to order everything from buggies and car seats to colouring books in advance, so they’re waiting on arrival.

This country estate gets 300 days of cool sunshine a year. While Mum relaxes in the spa and Dad plays golf, youngsters can enjoy kids’ and teens’ clubs that offer creative activities and encounters with the natural environment.

These elegant resorts offer luxe amenities alongside kids’ activity programmes. Little ones can enjoy face-painting and treasure hunts while tweens and teens can sample sports academies, cycling and more.

almyra.com

terre-blanche.com

martinhal.com

PORTUGAL

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JA HATTA FORT HOTEL IS LOCATED IN THE DRAMATIC AL HAJAR MOUNTAINS

Rewind & Relax Our weekend in Hatta introduces us to a simpler, quieter way of life in the UAE. We could get used to this… W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

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escapes

STAYCATION

ENJOY THE FABULOUS VIEWS FROM THE SUNSET TERRACE

H

atta is undoubtedly a charming place. Its rugged, mountainous landscape is majestic and nostalgic; it’s easy to imagine simpler times in the UAE, when towering skyscrapers and confusing spaghetti junctions were things of the future, while stress and anxiety become things of the past.

It’s not a long drive from Dubai, but it’s a few degrees cooler, making it the perfect weekend escape during hotter months.

We’re surprised by just how different the temperature is when we arrive at the beautiful JA Hatta Fort Hotel in August – sitting on the terrace of our lovely, contemporary hotel room, lounging around with that book we’ve been meaning to read all summer, is actually quite pleasant.

Overall, the resort is fantastic for families.

A couple of nights here won’t break the bank, but that affordability doesn’t mean a lesser experience. Quite the opposite. The grounds are stunning, both adult-only and family pools are lovely, the restaurants are great, and those hotel villas are very spacious, sparkling clean and extremely comfortable.

THE SUITES ARE COMFORTABLE, CLEAN AND VERY SPACIOUS

During your stay, you have your pick of activities, too. You’ll find archery, mini golf, tennis and air rifle shooting on-site, as well as swimming and a spa, if a massage is more your style. Off-site, you can organise a cultural tour of the local area, plus kayaking at the famous Hatta Dam. We definitely recommend making time for both excursions – the former is a fascinating look at a lesserdeveloped, still-quite-traditional area of Dubai, while the latter is a fun way to explore a surprisingly stunning area. Hatta is also home to great hiking trails. And, within a few months, it will be even more appealing to families, as an adventure park is currently being finished, complete with a zip line, waterpark and more.

Back at the hotel, we recommend booking dinner at Jeema, a contemporary dining room with a fabulous international menu. You can choose from a buffet or order à la carte (the kitchen caters to all diets, too). We love every bite of the dishes we pick during our stay. These range from an Indian-style curry to perfectly cooked steak, fresh salads to a moreish mushroom risotto, and the stars of the show – a rich, oozing chocolate fondant and even a delicious vegan pumpkin cake.

Putting the lovely rooms, fab food and fun activities aside, one of the things we love most about JA Hatta Fort Hotel is the staff. They’re all so friendly, the service is stellar, and some of the team members have been there for decades (look out for lovely Laxman, who’s been around for 37 years! The hotel opened in the ’80s!). By the time you leave, everyone will know your name.

For an affordable, comfortable weekend away, you can’t get much better than this. jaresortshotels.com September 201 8

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Village

PEOPLE How Sardinia’s Forte Village won over a slightly reluctant resort newbie

Wo r d s N A N C Y A L S O P

I

t isn’t often that you are deposited at your lodgings in a golf buggy. But then it’s not often that your hotel room is a half-mile journey from reception. And so it is that, packed to the gunnels with bags and buggies, we arrive like ramshackle travellers disembarking from an over-stuffed charabanc and are shown into our room at the Le Dune, one of seven hotels at Sardinia’s world-famous Forte Village resort.

Immediately, this trio of tightly coiled travellers begins to unwind – fast.

Le Dune is nominally a hotel, but each room is in fact its own standalone villa.

On turning the key to ours, several things strike us: firstly, coolly lolling in an ice bucket is a refreshing beverage (the coils slacken a degree further), as well as the most lavish platter of fruit – at its centre an entire pineapple – we’ve ever seen. Next, our eyes roam to the sheer size of the room (many Dubai flats are smaller), the calming

sea green of the walls, the huge windows framing views of tropical plants – and then, the pièce de résistance – an enormous balcony, perfect both for imbibing said beverages, and for our toddler to amuse herself by running in circles for hours. Back inside, the bathroom has a huge walk-in shower, as well as a swimming pool-like bath – a good spot to relax and listen to the warm-up of whichever band is playing the piazza that evening – and is stocked with divine Acqua Di Parma products. It is, in short, sublime. The temptation would be to do little but order room service and lounge about in fluffy white towels – but that would be to miss the point of Forte Village.

That it calls itself a village is no exaggeration, and if we’re splitting hairs, actually underplays its scale (few hamlets boast 21 restaurants). A half-hour’s drive south of Cagliari – the island’s ancient capital itself is well worth a night or two to explore the buzzing restaurant scene

and to scale its vertiginous and pretty medieval cobbled streets – and you reach Forte Village. Despite having read glowing reviews, as we cross the threshold of this vast contained world, it’s hard to know quite what to expect. An archway leads new villagers off the main road through to reception, where dozens of people mill about waiting for their own golf buggy to deliver them to one of the seven hotels – all of varying levels of luxury. But as soon as you depart reception and zip through the verdant grounds to your room, it becomes clear why this place is, again and again, named the best resort on the planet by the World Travel Awards (there is even a trophy room where the laudatory gongs are proudly lined up). For, despite the huge number of guests – so apparent at reception – once into the resort proper, there is never any sense of crowding, a feat given that there is roughly one member of staff per two guests, of which typically there September 201 8 | 83

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~

“CALLING ITSELF A VILLAGE UNDERPLAYS ITS SCALE – FEW HAMLETS CAN BOAST 21 RESTAURANTS”

~

are 1,500 in residence. This is, perhaps, thanks to the immaculately maintained lush pathways that snake through all 55 acres of Forte Village, all copiously planted and maintained beautifully. Unless you’re by a pool, you just don’t clap eyes on more than a handful of people at a time. And since most people get about on the handily provided bicycles, they’re gone before you’ve really clocked them.

We did not consider a resort holiday until we had a child, as we worried that there might be an element of organised fun; of a Disneyland on the Med, with grinning guests merrily joining conga lines. Resorts such as those must exist, but Forte Village is not one of them. Indeed, its beauty lies precisely in forcing nothing at all upon its guests; it is entirely what you make it.

There are hundreds of activities on offer, so the energetic can go diving, join academies to be taught by sporting legends or attend baby discos at night (yes, really), while others might choose instead to spend their days floating into a transcendent state of relaxation at the extraordinary thalassotherapy spa (more on that later).

Since our child is just two, The Children’s Wonderland soon becomes part of our daily routine; she would happily spend her entire holiday running in and out of the miniature 1950s Americana village, complete with diner, garage and grocery store – but that would be to neglect having enough time to squeal with delight at the children’s water park (her), or lounging by the pool (us).

Another part of our quickly adopted routine is the bustling pizzeria, which

serves up fantastic pizzas with great pillowy charred crusts at lunchtime; a world of our own we may be in, but this is still Italy – the pizza had better be good. It’s a buzzy beachside place, with a simple menu that hits the spot for kids and adults alike (guests pay for this, but breakfasts and dinners are included). And this is where Forte Village really scores. While it somehow manages to swerve having a soundtrack of screaming kids, it is endlessly child-friendly. Here, that hot-under-the-collar stress-sweat-inducing sensation when your baby goes bonkers in a less-than toddler-friendly environment is dispensed with, because children are made to feel as welcome as adults, the peerless staff fussing over and joking with them so that parents can breathe easy.

And so it is, too, at Forte Village’s fine-dining options. Le Dune’s in-house restaurant is one such, it’s exemplary seafood so fresh it could have leapt from the glistening Mediterranean that supplies the resplendent view here. But our

ultimate holiday highlight is found at the Michelinstarred Belvedere, the aptly titled restaurant at the neighbouring hotel of the same name (Le Dune has five stars; its guests can dine freely at the other hotels of the same star rating). The views from the secluded balcony of the mountains behind are sublime, as are chef Antonello Arrus’ local dishes, which underline that real skill lies in simplicity.

This place is so romantic that, as the waiters subtly dance attendance, you could imagine a Lady and the Tramp-style spaghetti kiss under a starry sky while an accordion plays in the background.

If all the dining, swimming and entertaining of your children hasn’t quite slackened those coils, do stop in at the thalassotherapy spa, where relaxation is taken exceptionally seriously (there is even a private mini spa for A-listers and the especially well-heeled). A course of six seawater baths with varying degrees of salt concentration is the result of 20 years’ research. As one who, generally, would prefer to be doing something other than floating about, I can be dismissive of spas.

Not this one. This is something beyond any luxury experience hitherto, and the feeling of wellbeing is exquisite and unparalleled.

It sums up, in microcosm, the whole Forte Village experience.

FO RTE VI LL AG E , SAR D I N IA Rooms from €630 per night, based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Bungalow on half-board basis, including VAT and service charge. Children under 2 stay free. For further information and for reservations, please visit fortevillageresort.com or call +39 070 921 8818 September 201 8 | 85

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Better sleep, naturally.

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Clip On • ELODIE DETAILS •

By now, you may have realised we’re big fans of Swedish design company, Elodie Details. (If not, note: we are).

Well, the pacifier clip is their flagship product. It’s a cute and stylish way to make sure that dummy stays clean. Doesn’t this little dude look dapper with his Moon Balloon clip? Pick up the matching dummy to complete the ensemble.

Clip, AED69; pacifier, AED65; ellijunior.com

September 201 8 | 87

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Hot Air

SHOPPING

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MAXI - COSI

 The first airbag child car seat in the UAE comes from Maxi-Cosi.

To mark the AxissFix Air’s arrival, Mamas & Papas has teamed up with RoadSafetyUAE to address the important topic of child car seats.

Child safety in cars is still a concern here, with 64% of fatal injuries of kids a result of road traffic incidents, according to a recent survey. Let’s make our roads safe! AED3,590; mamasandpapas.ae

TOT GEA R

Style Buy

Top-notch baby kit designed to make parenting easier

STOKKE

Hailing from Norway, the Stokke Xplory V6 stroller is a real headturner in “lotus pink”. Baby can be rear- or forward-facing and it’s fully customisable (frame colours, fabric sets; the lot), so technically you could even style your pram to match your outfit. Well, why not? AED4,999; @fivelittleducksme

App-tastic PLAY:DATE

 This nifty little app was born and raised in the UAE, and recently hit the Google Play store, too. Use it to set up new playdates for the kids based on their interests and personalities. It’s time to expand the friend base. Free; iOS and Android

MAMAS & PAPAS Frankie Hilton tests the store’s personal shopping service...

C

alling all new mummies-to-be – this is a must-try. Mamas & Papas’ personal shopping experience is free, with no strings attached.

You arrive to a small yet stylish lounge space in the store, to rest your swollen ankles and discuss with the team what you need. This is a great chance to get your husband involved.

Ours thoroughly enjoys learning how to clip car seats into the back of a makeshift in-store car, and testing his abilities when opening and closing buggies in one swift movement.

We both leave feeling more knowledgeable and competent, having previously felt a little overwhelmed with buying the big things.

We end up buying the Mamas & Papas Flip XT buggy, including newborn insert, and Cybex carseat that clips into the buggy, all within a fantastic bundle deal. Overall, it’s a morning or afternoon well spent.

To book, call 800 888 22. Available in The Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre, and Al Wahda branches in the UAE. mamasandpapas.ae

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Rosie GOODE

Rosie is a hypnotherapist and founder of London’s renowned Hypnobirthing Works. She has more than 14 years industry experience and a passion for helping couples through a positive birth. hypnobirthing works.co.uk

Ask the

EXPERTS Q

&

A

Parenting professionals and leading entrepreneurs answer some of your most pressing questions

90

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Q I’m scared/anxious about birth – what can I do?

A We’re surrounded by so much unhelpful noise from difficult birth stories, polarised opinions on internet forums to birthing drama on TV and in movies. It’s no wonder women are so anxious about birth.

Everything we see and hear affects how we feel about ourselves and our ability to birth our babies. Around a hundred years ago, Dr Grantly Dick Read identified the “Fear-TensionPain Cycle”, which is at the heart of what leads to a long, difficult, painful birth. Every time we hear an upsetting birth story, we trigger stress hormones (adrenaline, cortisol), which over a period of time increases anxiety, impacts sleep and negatively impacts birth before it has even started.

Surround yourself with positive people who support your birth plan. Speak to doulas. Speak to women who’ve had positive birth experiences. Hypnobirthing will teach you how to let go of worry, how to protect yourself from unhelpful stories and help you and your partner create a protective bubble. Find positive affi rmations that resonate with you and play them daily.

These, along with hypnobirthing audio tracks, will trigger supportive hormones, including endorphins and dopamine, which have been proven to boost your sense of optimism and help you to ignore negativity surrounding birth.

Editor’s note: Love Parenting UAE offers recommended hypnobirthing courses in the UAE; loveparentinguae.com

September 201 8

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essentia ls ADVICE

Sarajane AMBROSE

Sarajane founded the highly regarded international nanny agency, Imperial Nannies, and the exclusive maternity nurse agency Maternally Yours, in 1996. imperialnannies.com Q What is the difference between a nanny and governess?

A Nannies are responsible for all duties related to the care of the children, their nursery and play areas. They manage daily routines and organise educational play to encourage development, while creating a professional bond and trusting relationship with the family.

Nannies can supervise and assist with homework, reading, spelling, Math and English and the usual school art deadlines. They are not, however,

expected to be adept at French, Latin, Algebra and the Sciences.

Governesses, on the other hand, do not have responsibility for nursery duties. They generally work five to nine hours daily, and command a higher salary than a nanny. She will focus on her charges’ intellectual development while providing the necessary care and structure of their every day needs. She will also work alongside the children’s school(s) to keep up-to-date with progress.

Governesses and Governors are currently experiencing resurgence in demand among clients throughout the Middle East. Employing a Governess is an excellent option for families who require full professional academic support.

Nannies may hold formal qualifications and degrees, or they may have graduated from prestigious private colleges in the UK, such as Norland and Chiltern. Governesses typically hold a formal teaching qualification and all our candidates have at least five years’ private household experience.

Dr Sara ELLIOTT

Dr Sara Elliott is a vet at British Veterinary Hospital. Here she advises us on how to take care of ageing pets. britishvethospital.com Q Our family dog is getting quite old now. How can I make sure he lives his longest and best life?

A Thanks to better nutrition and improvements in veterinary medicine, our pets are living longer than ever before. Whether your pet is considered a senior depends on its size. For cats and smaller dogs, old age is anything above seven years.

Larger dogs, however, are senior at five years old. While old age is not a disease, older pets are more likely to develop health concerns, including a greater risk of heart disease.

How do you know when it’s time to say goodbye? We send our pet owners a questionnaire and email, assisting them in making what is always a very difficult decision. We recommend that each of the pet’s caregivers be a part of this decision, as different people will notice different changes in their pet, such as lack of appetite or less interest in playing.

Regular vet check-ups are vital for all pets, but they become even more important for senior pets. It is often easy to miss the fi rst signs of the diseases common in ageing pets, as they can be subtle. Therefore, having your pet checked by a vet every six months is recommended.

We also encourage owners to keep an eye out for these early warning signs of illness in their pets: change in appetite, change in weight, difficulty moving, confusion, bad breath or bleeding gums, excessive drinking or urination, any new lumps and bumps and changes in sleep patterns.

Owners seeing these changes should make an appointment to have their pet checked over by a vet.

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Heather MORRIS

Heather Morris is a Registered General Nurse and state-certified midwife. She is also mum to Freddy, Harry and Jack. metanium.co.uk Q What’s the best way to treat nappy rash?

A No matter how careful you are, most babies are likely to get nappy rash at some time. Nappy rash is usually mild and can be managed with a good skincare routine and a barrier ointment. Taking care of your baby’s delicate skin is essential.

These simple steps will help: • Lie your baby on a towel and leave your baby’s nappy off as often as you can, to let fresh air get to the skin.

• Change wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible.

• Clean the nappy area thoroughly using plain water or alcohol- and fragrance-free wipes.

• Don’t use talcum powder, as it contains ingredients that could irritate your baby’s skin.

• Try to bath your baby every day, but don’t use soap or bubble bath.

• Gently pat rather than rub your baby’s bottom dry and avoid vigorous rubbing.

• Use a suitable barrier ointment at each nappy change.

Most mild cases of nappy rash can be easily treated with an ointment recommended by your pharmacist.

However, whenever you feel worried, it’s best to seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

“NAPPY RASH IS USUALLY MILD AND CAN BE MANAGED WITH A GOOD SKINCARE ROUTINE”

for long periods • Take care with car seats – forward bending and twisting is the easiest way to injure a lower back disc • Use baby carriers sparingly

Michael FATICA

Lead consultant osteopath at The Mayfair Clinic discusses why the post-pregnancy months are critical for back health themayfairclinic.com Q Why are new mums vulnerable to back injury after giving birth?

A New mums risk chronic long-term back problems if they ignore niggling aches and pains in the year after giving birth. The physical stresses of pregnancy, childbirth and looking after babies can place considerable stress on the lower back.

TO REDUCE BACK STRAIN: • Hold baby close to your centre, not with your arms stretched in front • Limit the time the baby is perched on your hips • Sit when holding baby

PERFORM THESE EXERCISES 2-3 TIMES DAILY TO ALLEVIATE BACK PAIN DURING AND POST-PREGNANCY: • Stand against a wall for a few moments with heels, bottom, middle-back and head touching the wall to “reset your posture” • Lie on your back and slowly flatten the arch in your back 10-20 times (should take approximately 60-90 seconds) • Go swimming; even a paddle in a pool will help, but avoid the breaststroke • For pregnant women only: sleep on your side and use pillows to keep your neck straight, not tilted to one side While back rehabilitation is often low on a new mum’s list of priorities, the stress of childbirth can highlight and even worsen a pre-existing weakness in the lower back. It’s important for new mums to see an osteopath or chiropractor to get their spine examined early on.

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Learn through

PLAY Dr Sam Wass and LEGO® Juniors share advice on how productive play can benefit little ones

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P L AY W I T H T H E M

Playing with our children is, for many parents, a great pleasure.

But it’s also important to remember how much children learn from these interactions. Adults naturally concentrate better, give up less easily, and are better at planning actions, and children can learn these skills from adults, just by doing things together.

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LET THEM LEAD

Research suggests that children learn best in situations in which they are motivated – and the best way to ensure that is to let them choose the activity and then follow it with them to help them explore, and to get the most out of their own idea.

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L E A R N T O P L AY FO LLOWe r - LE AD E R

Learn the knack of playing follower-leader. You’ll naturally be faster than your child, and better at planning in advance. But when you are playing with your child be careful not to

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“CHILDREN LEARN BEST IN SITUATIONS IN WHICH THEY’RE MOTIVATED – LET THEM CHOOSE THE ACTIVITY”

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charge ahead and fi nish the task yourself, leaving them demotivated. Try to follow their attention, and support them – so if they pick up a piece of a puzzle, support that by saying “I wonder where that goes”.

That way they will stay interested for much longer.

SMALL STEPS

When starting school, some of the key skills that children are learning are basic self-sufficiency skills – being able to tie your own shoelaces, put your own coat on, peel your own fruit. These require what we call “fi ne motor skills” – the ability to do fi ne, precise movements with

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your hands. Playing with small items (such as LEGO Juniors) can be a great way to learn these skills, so don’t put the pieces in yourself; let them do it.

LET THEM M A K E M I S TA K E S

For example, if they’re building something with LEGO and put a piece in the wrong place it’s tempting to step in straight away and correct it. But children will learn far more if you let them make the mistake – and then, later on, go back and figure out for themselves what they’ve done wrong, and correct it.

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TIPS

HELP THEM VI S UALI S E

One skill that children fi nd particularly hard at this age is mental rotation.

So seeing a picture of something they are going to make, and then translating that into what the model looks like in real life, is much harder for a child than an adult. You can help them by making sure the picture is propped up, clearly visible, and at the same angle as the model.

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F I N I S H T H E TA S K One of the key skills that is particularly challenging for children is to complete things. It helps if they know the size of the task and roughly how long it’s going to take before they start. It can help with motivation if, when they fi nish the task, they have something to play with – so bear that in mind when choosing what to play.

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TE A MWO R K

Most four-year-olds tend to be very much in their own world and one of the big skills they are going to be learning over their fi rst year at school is getting to know other children.

Teamwork is something that all young children fi nd challenging so don’t worry if they fi nd it hard to start with.

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“TEAMWORK IS SOMETHING THAT ALL YOUNG CHILDREN FIND CHALLENGING, SO DON’T WORRY”

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KEEP IT SIMPLE

Simple tasks can be a good way to encourage young children to play together. Something easy, like a painting that they have to do together on a single sheet of paper, can be a great way to encourage cooperation.

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B E P AT I E N T

For many four-year-olds, sharing toys can be something they fi nd easy to do when they are in a good mood, but impossible otherwise. Rather than telling them off for not sharing, it can be more helpful to help them to understand their own bad mood, by saying: “I know that you’re upset, or angry, but…” Understanding their own emotions is something that almost all young children fi nd challenging, so supporting them in learning about this is particularly crucial.

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Kids Academy Street No. 27, Al Mushrif 02 441 1991

to know Mama’s guide to top nurseries and preschools in the UAE

A BU D H ABI Apple Bee Nursery Villa 22, Hazaa Bin Zayed Street, Al Rawdah Area 02 443 4747 Blooming Buds Nursery Between Khlaleej Al Arabi Street (30th) and 32nd Street, Intersecting at Al Saada Street (19th) 02 491 8068 Bright Beginnings Nursery Al Ayay Street, Near to Al Muhairi Mosque, Mehairba 02 445 5339

Bright Beginnings Nursery Al Mushrif 02 449 2840 Bright Beginnings Nursery NYU Abu Dhabi, B2 Building 02 628 4816 British Orchard Nursery Villa 2, Al Ladeem Street, Al Nahyan Camp 02 443 9892 British Orchard Nursery Al Falah Street, Al Bateen 02 622 2903

Children’s House Montessori Casa 7, Street 23, Khalifa City 02 444 1150 Early World Nursery Near Hazza bin Zayed Street, and One to One Hotel – The Village, earlyworldnursery.com 02 643 8867 Falcon British Nursery 200 Saif Ghobash Street, Zayed Sports City 02 444 8814 Greenopia Eco Preschool Villa 5, Al Rowdah – Karamah Street, Opposite Umm Al Emarat Park 02 679 8887 Hummingbird Nursery Amaya Towers, Al Reem Island 02 671 7701 Humpty Dumpty Nursery Street 11, Al Bateen 02 666 3277 Humpty Dumpty Nursery Street 16, Khalifa City 02 556 1068 Kids Academy 17th Street, Khalifa City A 02 557 7636

Kids Academy Al Khaleej Al Arabi St. Al Bateen 02 446 6484 Kipinä 13 Al Mirzam Street, Al Bateen 800 547462 Kipinä 84, Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Al Mushrif 800 547462 Ladybird Nursery Villa 18, 4th Street, Al Zaabi Area 02 667 3881 Mindchamps Nursery Bloom Gardens, Al Muntazah 02 610 9666 Odyssey Nursery Street 20, Plot 41, Khalifa City A 02 665 5994 Redwood Montessori Nursery Street 38, Khalifa City A 02 556 4611 Redwood Montessori Nursery Abu Al Abyad Street, Gate A, Villa 21, Al Bateen 02 667 3741 Redwood Montessori Nursery Saadiyat Island 02 643 2888 Step by Step Nursery Villa 11 & 13, Al Huwelat Street, Al Bateen 02 665 3331 Stepping Stones Nursery Villa 22, Mileih Street, Al Bateen 02 681 5583

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essentials DIRECTORY

Crystal Valley Nursery Arabian Center, Khawaneej Road, Al Mizhar 04 284 5519

Jebel Ali Village Nursery Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, Al Qudra Road, Near Arabian Ranches 04 368 9882

Emerald City Nursery 21st street, Jumeirah 2 04 349 0848

Jebel Ali Village Nursery Discovery Pavillion Mall, Discovery Gardens, Al Furjan 04 551 6335

Stepping Stones Nursery Villa 3, 3rd Street, Abu Dhabi Gate City 02 558 8318

Blossom Marina Nursery Beauport Tower, Marina Promenade, Dubai Marina 04 422 1068

Golden Gate Nursery Building 27, 6B Street Umm Al Sheif-367 04 321 6069

Stepping Stones Nursery 26th Street, Khalifa City A 02 556 5991

Blossom Mudon Nursery Al Salam Town Center, Mudon 04 551 9330

Stepping Stones Nursery Villa 37, Street 12, Sector 40 Muroor 02 443 4430

Blossom Village Nursery Villa 43, Street Al Ragay, Umm Suqeim 1 04 394 8837

Homegrown Children’s Eco Nursery Street 33, Al Safa 2 04 321 8333

The Windsor Early Years Nursery Street 23, Khalifa City A 02 557 9295 White Fields Nursery Villa 4, Corner of Delma Street, 32nd Street, Al Bateen 02 666 0826

D U BA I Blossom Burj Nursery Villa 37 Street 10A, Umm Al Sheif 04 348 6275 Blossom Downtown Nursery Yansoon 7, Al Manzil District, Downtown Dubai 04 448 7661 Blossom Early Learning Centre Block 12, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai-Al Ain Road 04 421 4458

British Orchard Nursery Villa 20A, Street 33, Al Mankhool, Bur Dubai 04 398 3536 British Orchard Nursery Villa 35, Jumeirah Road, Umm Suqeim 1 04 395 3570 British Orchard Nursery Opposite Choithrams, Dubai Silicon Oasis 04 388 6602 British Orchard Nursery Business Central Towers, Dubai Media City 04 438 5255 British Orchard Nursery Shams 2 Plaza Level Jumeirah Beach Residence 04 447 5881 CreaKids The Sustainable City 04 240 6728 CreaKids Egypt Court, Ibn Battuta Mall 04 368 4130

Hummingbird Nursery Precinct Building 5, DIFC 04 370 0449 Hummingbird Nursery Limestone House, DIFC 04 379 9800 Hummingbird Nursery Building 7, Bay Square 04 552 1909 Indigo Valley Nursery 13A Street, Al Twar 2 04 263 3544 Jebel Ali Village Nursery Honsho Street, Motor City 04 422 1415 Jebel Ali Village Nursery Lakes Club House, Emirates Living 04 454 8404 Jebel Ali Village Nursery Al Bahar Tower 1, Jumeirah Beach Residence 04 424 3791 Jebel Ali Village Nursery Al Furjan South, Al Furjan Pavilion, Meadows Village 04 420 8267

Kids Cottage Nursery Al Heeba Street, Umm Suqeim 04 394 2145 Ladybird Nursery Villa 8 & 10, Street 25A, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1 04 344 1011 Ladybird Nursery District 12, Street 26, Jumeirah Village Circle 04 553 9900 Redwood Montessori Nursery Mezzanine Floor, Building 8, Golden Mile, Palm Jumeirah 04 248 5854 The Wonder Years Nursery Motor City, Dubai Sports City 04 368 5600 Toddler Town British Nursery Amwaj 5 Plaza Level, Dubai Marina 04 452 8080 Toddler Town British Nursery Villa 20, 21st Street, Al Safa (Al Manara), Jumeirah 04 388 2999 Willow Children’s Nursery Al Wasl Road 050 472 5890 Yellow Brick Road Nursery Street 31 A, Al Garhoud, Across the road from Irish Village 04 282 8290

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mam a

GOODBYE

Last Word

The

UAE & ME

TRACY PRESTON WITH HER GORGEOUS FAMILY IN DUBAI

Tracy Preston,, the super-mama behind Mummyista.com, shares what she loves most about living in Dubai...

TRACY PRESTON

Age: 40 Nationality: English Occupation: Founder of mummyista.com, but a management accountant by trade Kids: Two girls, aged five and two Lives: Shoreline Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

EVE IS THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE PRESTON FAMILY

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“ T HE VIBE I S R EA L LY UPBEAT AND T H ER E’S SUCH A MIX O F P EOP L E HERE THAT I T R EA L LY OPENS YOUR M I N D”

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Q What is it about the UAE that you and your family love?

A It’s an exciting place and, once you’re here, who knows what direction your life may take?

I couldn’t have imagined 10 years ago I would be leaving my corporate finance role working for the Abu Dhabi Government and setting up my e-commerce site, mummyista.com!

The vibe is really upbeat and there’s such a mix of people here that it really opens your mind and gives you the chance to learn and experience different cultures, religions, nationalities. It’s quite unlike anywhere else in the world for this.

Also, in the cooler months, the weather makes it feel like you are on holiday every day.

And it’s very family-friendly; you can go just about anywhere with the kids and they’ll be welcome and there’s so much to do.

Q What restaurants do you love here?

A There are so many to choose from – Nobu and Seafire at Atlantis The Palm are in the top ten for a special night out for me. Breeze on the Palm for a more relaxed vibe.

Q What do you and your family like to do together on weekends?

A Once swimming lessons are done we’ll

TRACY AND HER ELDEST DAUGHTER, GRACE

usually take a walk to a local coffee shop with the kids on their scooters. Then we like to spend quality time together doing fun things, such as going to the pool, playing in the park, going to the beach, catching up with friends, etc.

Q What’s the first thing you do with visitors when they come?

A Usually a family-friendly brunch, as it’s a great opportunity to catch up and celebrate, and it’s something different to what visitors expect. Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen is ideal as they have activities for kids and they get to play in a safe environment.

Q Where is your favourite place to shop for kids here?

A For clothes, H&M and Monsoon are great and my eldest loves looking at the accessories in both. For toys, the Early Learning Centre has been great during the early years. Also, there’s a shop on the Golden Mile, Palm Jumeirah called Book Corner, which has some toys you don’t get in the other shops.

Q Did you give birth in the UAE? A Yes, I did. Both times were with Dr George from Genesis Perinatal Care Clinic at City Hospital. I feel so fortunate to have been able to give birth here – the care I received was fantastic and I knew I was in safe hands.

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