Raphael Stevens

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    in health and weelbeing

    10 Festive Non-Alcoholic Cocktails to Try This Season

    With all that celebrating this time of year comes drinks—lots and lots of drinks. And while I’ve never been one to turn down a glass of bubbly (or two), I also know it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Not only does alcohol wreak havoc on your digestive system, but it can affect mood (that dreaded hangxiety) and overall make you feel blah. It’s no wonder more and more people are becoming sober curious. The good news is there are plenty of bevvies of the booze-free variety that are full of holiday spirit. So whether you’re sober, sober curious, or just in the mood for a mocktail this holiday season, check out this list of 10 alcohol-free holiday drinks to toast with. 

    Source: Camille Styles

    Source: Ahead of Thyme

    Source: Unbound Wellness

    Source: Garnish with Lemon

     

    Everyone’s Talking About Going “Sober Curious”
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    In pics: Etihad’s much-loved A380 fleet makes a return in 2023

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    After a steep surge in demand, UAE’s national carrier, Etihad Airways is set to reintroduce its A380 fleets.
    Starting in 2023, four super-jumbos A380s will operate between Abu Dhabi and London with a host of new
    This expansive double-decker aircraft will feature nine First apartments, 80 Business Studios and 405 Economy smart seats. Other onboard amenities in the First class section include a large leather lounge, a 24” swiveling LCD TV monitor, a personal vanity and a fully-flat bed for utmost comfort.
    For First and Business class passengers to take a break from their seats, they will have access to a fully-served lounge at the lobby which includes leather sofas, refreshments, a large TV accompanied by a USB connection to ensure all devices remain charged throughout the time.
    His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, of Etihad Aviation Group, said, “It is wonderful to announce the return of this splendid aircraft.”
    “The A380’s reintroduction provides a further boost to Etihad’s capacity into the key UK market, with a knock-on effect for the wider GCC and Indian subcontinent that will bring more visitors to the city of Abu Dhabi,” he conveyed.
    For a sneak peek inside the new fleet, swipe through the gallery.

    This new fleet in 2023 will operate to London Heathrow and launch in other new destinations and increase frequencies to existing routes.
    For more information visit etihad.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    I Have Social Anxiety–These Tips Help Me Actually Enjoy Holiday Parties

    Watch any Hallmark Christmas movie and you’ll see a winter wonderland filled with family and friends, baking cookies, holiday shopping, and a lot of celebration. While I’m fully on board with festive movie marathons and indulging in the traditions that come with the holiday season, there is one part of it that peaks my anxiety: holiday parties. 
    Between the office holiday party, annual family get-together, Friendsmas potluck, and white elephant exchange, it can feel like every weekend is committed to a social gathering. As an introvert with social anxiety, it’s hard to keep up with the constant holiday celebrations, but I’ve learned to prepare for such events in a way that I can enjoy the night and check my anxiety at the door. Ahead, the tips I keep in my back pocket to help me get through holiday parties with ease.

    1. Meditate
    Social anxiety doesn’t just occur at social events. It usually arrives well before the party has even begun, which is why it’s important to set yourself up for success ahead of time. My getting-ready routine not only involves a good playlist and make-up tutorial, but also setting aside some time to meditate before heading out. Meditation is already a part of my daily routine, but on a night when I’m attending a big event that I know will trigger my anxiety, I’ll add a 10-20 minute guided meditation sesh (through either the Unplug or Superhuman app) beforehand to help calm my nerves and get me in the right headspace. Just by prioritizing meditation, I can walk out the door feeling ready to socialize with confidence. 

    2. Practice an affirmation
    Affirmations often go hand-in-hand with meditation practices, but I find they’re also particularly helpful on their own to repeat to yourself during situations that may cause anxiety. The benefits come from repeating the word or phrase over and over again, which creates a focal point to align yourself in the present moment. You can create your own affirmations specific to the situations that cause you social anxiety or you can try some more general sayings, like “I am a friendly person,” “I am confident,” “I enjoy meeting new people,” and “I am relaxed in social situations.” Practicing an affirmation before or during a social event can be a great aid in working through any social anxiety that may arise. 

    3. Bring a friend
    Experiencing any mental health struggles can be especially difficult during this season, but the good news is you don’t have to go it alone. Despite the common perception that we have to face our struggles around anxiety on our own, having friends by my side who understand my anxiety has made it much easier for me to navigate social events. If there’s a party I don’t feel comfortable going to alone, I bring a friend. If simply the idea of attending a social event solo causes anxiety, bring someone you trust and who can be your support system throughout the night as your plus one. You just might find yourself so wrapped up in the holiday spirit that you forget why you were even anxious about attending the event in the first place.

    4. Have a plan
    For me, the lead-up to any event is when my anxiety creeps up. My mind often races between thoughts like, “What if I have no one to talk to?” and “What if I get stuck seated next to someone I don’t know?” I obsess over what time to arrive, what to wear, who is attending, and what will happen at the event. It can become so overwhelming that oftentimes it feels easier to just not attend at all. But over the years, I’ve learned not to let my anxiety get in the way of having fun, because yes, holiday parties can be a lot of fun!  You just have to be mentally prepared with a game plan.
    Anxiety takes over when you feel a lack of control, so for starters, I think of every social anxiety-inducing situation that could happen at the party and come up with a plan. One might be standing alone and not feeling comfortable joining a conversation. In that case, make your way to a space you feel comfortable in and that will make it easier for you to socialize, like the bar/food area or even the bathroom (a lot of people love to socialize in restrooms of restaurants, bars, etc.). You can even have some questions in the back of your mind to ask people if you feel stuck, such as “What are your plans for the holidays?” 

    5. Congratulate yourself
    Living with social anxiety can feel like an ongoing battle. Sometimes you don’t know when or how it will arise. So when you do have to face it, whether at a holiday party or a work dinner, it’s important to remember that just leaving the house is a win. Congratulate yourself for putting on that LBD and spending a couple of hours in a social situation that may make you want to run home and crawl into bed. Try making a list of all the little wins you had that evening, and remember them the next time you are attending a social event. We often forget to stop and take note of what we’ve accomplished, which includes surviving social anxiety during the holiday season.

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    Why you need to book this pool day in Dubai ASAP

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: There’s nothing better than a relaxing day by the pool as the weather cools down.
    For the ultimate relaxation this season, Coco Lounge is set to welcome tourists and residents with its highly sought-after deal this season.
    To unwind visitors can recline on a lounger and soak up the sun by day and rejuvenate by the pool at Dhs99, which is fully redeemable on food and beverages.
    The venue is complemented by a delectable poolside menu, that combines Latin American and Nikkei Japanese fusion cuisine with classic cocktails to sip on throughout the day. With a myriad of options varying from bite-size burritos to maki rolls, there’s enough for everyone to delight in.

    Everyone can enjoy this laidback day of blissful relaxation by catching up with their friends in the private cabanas, poolside chairs or sofas, while being looked after by the team of exceptional staff.
    With a new-age approach to liquid concoctions, guests can indulge in a plethora of beverages from day to night. To kick up the pace, this poolside venue plays chill lounge hits throughout the day to experience the outdoors at its best.

    Located in Media One Hotel on the 8th floor, pool access is open from 10am to 7pm with F&B available at Coco Lounge from 10am to 11pm.
    To make a booking or for more information visit mediaonehotel.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Sheikh Mohammed gives Dubai’s SushiSamba another royal stamp of approval

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    The UAE’s royals most definitely know where to dine in Dubai.
    Today, Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai paid a visit to one of the emirate’s most popular hotspots, SushiSamba.
    With not just one but two royal visits this year, this restaurant continues to stay on top of Dubai’s unending list of fine-dining havens this year. After Sheikh Hamdan visited the restaurant, Sheikh Mohammed who is regularly seen at the city’s various F&B spots followed to try the food out for himself today.
    The page even shared a photo on their Instagram of Sheikh Mohammed posing with the team and captioned it, “It was an honour to welcome HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for lunch today.”

    The venue is a must-visit for visitors and residents in the UAE with its glistening views of Dubai’s skyline and its multifaceted menu which seamlessly combines Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian influences. With evocative interiors and a tropical ambience, the restaurant brings an artful mix of culinary delights such as ceviche, tempura, Brazilian churrasco and more, making it a memorable experience for all, after already establishing itself in London and Las Vegas.

    Other A-listers earlier this year were spotted at this fine-dining haven. The famous tennis player Roger Federer visited the restaurant in October with the renowned actor Martin Lawrence who was seen posing with the Director of Culinary, Chef Kyungsoo Moon.

    Shortly after the restaurant opened and made a mark for itself in Dubai this year, Fazza thought it fit to host one of his most famous friends at the restaurant. The emirate’s Crown Prince was seen visiting the hotspot with famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this year and the restaurant’s team described it as an “honour” to welcome this Dubai royal and even shared a photo from his visit on their feed, as the duo enjoyed all the delectable dishes with the rest of the entourage.
    Located on the 51st floor of The St. Regis, The Palm, this fine-dining spot should be added to your celebrity-approved places to visit next.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @sushisambadubai More

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    12 Christmas brunches in Dubai to celebrate with your loved ones

    Dubai is never short of festive celebrations to bring in the occasion.
    With Christmas soon approaching, brunches are all set to take place in full swing to bring on the holiday cheer.
    From renowned fine-dining havens to beachside venues, the emirate will be bustling with dining hotspots hosting special brunches with an array of mouthwatering dishes and well-crafted beverages.
    So, whether Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, there’s a brunch in every cuisine to tantalise your palate this year.
    SushiSamba

    For an exclusive festive celebration, this much-loved restaurant is bringing a blend of Japanese, Brazillian and Peruvian flavours to the table for its Christmas brunch. With a multi-sensory experience, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes such as black cod, crispy quinoa, beef gyoza and more. With a dynamic explosion of cocktails and scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this brunch is not to be missed out on. To make the afternoon even more enticing, DJ Megablast will play irresistible beats with the venue’s dazzling samba dancers to create an exciting atmosphere. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25 from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs649 for cocktails, hops, grape and house spirits and Dhs799 for eveything including premium bubbles. Located on the 51st floor at The St. Regis, The Palm, this spectacular brunch will promise an unforgettable afternoon.
    For more information visit sushisamba.com
    Amazonico

    This special Jungle Bell Brunch gives Christmas a Latin. With the restaurants, best-loved dishes including delectable plates, creative cocktails, tunes from the resident DJ and an afterparty at its rooftop, this Christmas brunch can’t be missed out on. Set to take place in the heart of DIFC at Dhs575 soft drinks, Dhs675 house drinks, Dhs795 Champagne on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.ae
    La Cantine du Faubourg

    For a Parisian take on Christmas, this fine-dining haven is hosting a special festive brunch with a plethora of delightful dishes. From French toast with fresh berries to wagyu beef carpaccio, the options are endless in the bed-in-breakfast-themed concept. This special 105 brunch will take place on December 24 and December 25 for three hours from 12pm to 5pm with the soft beverages package starting at Dhs360 per person, the house beverages at Dhs485 per person and bubbles at Dhs725.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    Fi’lia

    For a sky-high Christmas brunch with a view, this restaurant is the place to be. To ensure guests feel their best, this special brunch will serve a sharing-style menu with festive cocktails and ensure the live DJ plays your favourite hits throughout. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs299 for the soft beverages package, Dhs400 for house beverages and Dhs560 for bubbles at SLS Hotel in Business Bay.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Cove Beach

    For a sandy Christmas, soak in the festive spirit with a specially curated Christmas Day brunch at Two.0 restaurant located in Cove Beach Dubai. This picturesque venue will serve high-class culinary delicacies curated by a team of experts on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm. The packages start at Dhs299 for soft beverages, Dhs499 for house beverages and Dhs549 for house beverages and bubbles.
    For more information visit covebeach.com
    Netsu

    For a Warayki-style dining experience visit this fine-dining haven. With Warayaki-style grills, sushi, and sashimi platters, this restaurant promises the complete package. The evening is complemented by their interiors, music, flames, and the overall Christmas feel on Sunday, December 25. The packages for children from the age of 4 to 12 is priced at Dhs250 and for adults are Dhs495 for soft beverages.
    For more information visit netsu
    Bull & Bear

    This New York-inspired restaurant will make Christmas even more special for you with a Broadway-themed menu. Guests can savour perfectly cooked turkey served with all the trimmings and desserts to share, welcomed with classic mulled grape. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 5pm starting at Dhs195 for children from 6 to 12 years, Dhs395 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house beverages package and Dhs795 for the bubble package at Waldorf Astoria DIFC.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    Address Beach Resort

    For a delightful festive buffet, The Restaurant at Address Beach Resort is hosting a wholesome afternoon of culinary delights with turkey and all its trimming. To complement the afternoon, guests can enjoy enchanting performances from its soulful choir along with Santa Claus who will make a special appearance to bestow the little ones with presents. The brunch will take plac eon Sunday, December 35 from 1pm to 4pm at Dhs788 for the soft beverage package, Dhs988 for the house beverages plus half a bottle of bubbles and 50 percent off for children from ages 7 to 11.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    Rive Gauche

    Take a trip back in time with this vintage-themed festive brunch. Add extra sparkle to this year’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations by leaving it in the glamour-filled hands of new French dining and cabaret experience. The afternoon comes with special festive entertainment and a selection of starters, one main course, side dishes and delicious desserts. The three-course soft beverages is priced at Dhs390 per person, Dhs490 for house spirits and Dhs690 for bubbles and will take place on December 24 and December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit rivegauchedubai.com
    Toro Toro

    Explore delicious traditional dishes from across Latin America with friends and family looking for a merry time this Christmas. Celebrate the holiday season with a delectable set menu bursting with Latin American flavours at the award-winning restaurant. This entertainment-fuelled evening will feature a DJ, Latin dancers and percussionists while children can expect a visit from Santa Claus. All set to take place on Saturday, December 24, 2022 from 1pm to 4pm at Grosvenor House with packages starting from Dhs457 for soft beverages, Dhs675 for house beverages and Dhs975 for house beverages and bubbles.
    For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
    Nikki Beach

    For an all-white-themed brunch, Café Nikki is hosting a special Christmas buffet brunch with a live duo band, resident DJ and pool and beach access until sunset. This enticing brunch is set to take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 4pm with packages starting at Dhs500 for children below 12 years old, Dhs650 per person for house beverages and cocktails and Dhs860 for bubbles and house spirits.
    For more information visit nikkibeach.com
    The London Project

    Get ready to sleigh this Christmas at The London Project. Guests can sit back and relish merry entertainment, from singers, musicians, and Christmas-inspired performances. The brunch is filled with a host of delicious Christmas cocktails, festive food, jolly music and other dishes. Let The London Project do all the hard work, for a truly unforgettable day on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm starting at DHs495 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house package, dhs696 for the premium package and Dhs895 for the bubbles package with a 50 percent discount on the soft beverages package for children from 6 to 12 years.
    For more information visit thelondonproject.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Chanel Fine Jewellery 2021 Campaign More

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    How I got my job… as Co-Founder of this Dubai-based artisanal Italian restaurant

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week we chat with Mohamed Jamal Alshamsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Monno, which is home to artisanal Italian food using the finest ingredients.
    This exclusive Italian haven brings the most cherished culinary traditions to the forefront with recipes passed down through generations. From Neapolitan pizzas to decedent desserts such as tiramisus, each dish is crafted to perfection as a true taste of Italy.
    Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about his career path and how he converted his love for food into a full-time business.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    In school, I mostly enjoyed business studies.

    What was your first job?
    I studied to become a pilot, so that was my first job and is still what I do today – as well as being a first-time restauranteur with the opening of Monno.
    How long have you lived in Dubai?
    I am Emirati and was born and raised in the UAE.
    What inspired you to launch Monno Ristorante?
    Me and my business partner – the co-founder of Monno Hamad Hamad Abdelsalam, who is also a pilot, also shares a deep passion for Italy. Through flying there very regularly, we both developed a love for the country’s food and culture and noticed that there is a huge lack of quality and authentic restaurants in Dubai that fit in the casual Italian dining sector, so we decided to establish Monno.
    Talk us through the inspiration being your restaurant and its menu.
    At Monno, we focus on quality, value for money and authenticity. Fresh and natural ingredients imported from Italy are carefully calibrated and prepared, to deliver a nostalgic journey of the country’s most cherished culinary traditions. From exclusively using San Marzano tomatoes to importing artisanal Italian cheeses and olive oils for handmade pasta and genuine Neapolitan pizzas, our menu also features a range of antipasti, main courses and traditional desserts. Inside the restaurant, expect interiors and an ambiance inspired by that of a classic Trattoria found on the back streets of quaint towns in Italy.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    The key elements of my role are handling all things related to the food and beverage – so working with our chef to create the menus, food tastings, the development of special menus and more. I also handle the marketing and PR side of the business, while my partner, Hamad is our Chief Financial Officer and handles all things related to finance and accounting, then for general operational requirements, we do everything together.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    As a pilot, my daily routine depends on my flight schedule that week. If I’m flying that day, I go to work and complete my pre-flight procedures then take to the sky, however, if I’m not, my days are spent at Monno and with my family and friends.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps of opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    First and the most important advice is to think of something special and unique, something new that no one in Dubai has thought of before. Once you have a unique idea, work to execute it well.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    The best advice I ever received and believe in is simply ‘don’t rush’. Take things slowly and think twice before making your move, it will pay off in the long run.
    And what is the worst?
    The worst was to always be spontaneous and do things on the spot. I believe this connects to my best piece of advice, which is not to rush. I believe good things take time and we should think wisely before acting.

    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome when opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    The biggest challenge was when our opening fell close to the end of the pandemic. It was a huge challenge as there were so many restrictions in place at the time, so we could only accommodate a small number of guests at any given time, which is hardly what any new restaurant wants. We thankfully made it through that challenging time.
    What are the future plans for your brand, Monno?
    At Monno, we’re working on a couple of collaborations, which we will be able to announce in the coming months. We’re also working on an exciting pop-up for Monno that we hope to launch early next year. Watch this space!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    10 Immune System Boosting Recipes You’ll Make All Winter Long

    Cold and flu season is here and the last place any of us want to be is stuck at home under the weather. When it comes to supporting the immune system, prioritizing 7-9 hours of sleep, exercising in ways that bring you joy, spending time in nature, and choosing foods that protect you at a cellular level are essential. Eating a varied diet of whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables are key to overall health, and specific nutrients found in these foods can help aid in immune function. You may have heard that vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc are star players for immunity, but some others to keep in mind are vitamin E (for antioxidants!) and compounds found in garlic, ginger, and turmeric, which may fight bacteria, viruses, and decrease inflammation. 
    If you’re looking to start supporting your immune health, consider incorporating more plants or plant-based foods to your meals. And if you’re not sure where to start, I got you. As a registered dietician, these are 10 of my favorite immune-supporting recipes to make all winter long.

    Source: Two Peas & Their Pod

    Source: Wholesome Yum

    Source: Minimalist Baker

    Source: Fit Foodie Finds

    Source: Eating Bird Food

    Source: Eating Bird Food

    Source: Fit Foodie Finds

    Source: Cookie + Kate

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