Raphael Stevens

As the countdown to the Friends reunion begins, the cast have been spilling the beans about behind-the-scenes secrets, bloopers and discussing their favourite guest stars on the show.Alongside the core six – Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer – Friends had a whole host of celebrity guest stars on the show during its 10-year run including Paul Rudd, Julia Roberts, Susan Sarandon, George Clooney and more.In the run-up to the premiere of Friends: The Reunion, the cast sat down with Access Hollywood, where Aniston, Kudrow and Cox discussed their favourite guest stars throughout their decade on the sitcom.READ: Here’s where you can watch the Friends reunion in the Middle EastKudrow, who played Phoebe Buffay, admitted in the interview that she was “blown away by so many”, while Cox, who played Monica Geller, highlighted Tom Selleck as “the sweetest”.As for Aniston, who played Rachel Green, one of her favourite guest stars was Reese Witherspoon and Ben Stiller. She also mentioned her “fantastic” ex-husband, Brad Pitt, who starred in the episode The One With the Rumor.“And Mr Pitt was wonderful,” Aniston said. “He was fantastic.”[embedded content]In the trailer for the reunion, Cox, Aniston, Kudrow, LeBlanc, Perry and Schwimmer appear together reflecting on iconic moments from the show, doing a table read from notable scenes and also appear in the famous purple Friends apartment.There’s also a huge amount of A-list guests set to appear on the show including David Beckham, Justin Bieber, BTS, James Corden, Cindy Crawford, Cara Delevingne, Lady Gaga, Kit Harington, Larry Hankin, Mindy Kaling, Thomas Lennon, Christina Pickles, Tom Selleck, Reese Witherspoon, Malala Yousafzai and more.The infamous subject of Ross and Rachel’s relationship is brought up – the trailer even opens with Schwimmer questioning his co-stars over the length of the letter Rachel wrote him after they got back together (for probably the third or fourth time).And yes the famous question was asked to the cast – were Ross and Rachel really on a break? It seems to still divide opinions…We can’t be able to relive memories from the most iconic sitcom of all-time on OSN this Thursday, May 27.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages & Media: Getty / Warner Bros. / HBO Max More

Lindsay Lohan is set to make a return to acting.While for the past few years Dubai-based Lohan has dabbled in some projects here and there, the actress will appear on a new Netflix release.As reported by Variety, the 32-year-old is set to star in a Christmas romantic comedy – which is currently untitled.Lohan will play a “newly engaged, spoiled hotel heiress” who ends up in a skiing accident and suffering from amnesia. She “finds herself in the care of a handsome, blue-collar lodge owner and his precocious daughter in the days leading up to Christmas”.No other cast members have been announced, with filming expected to be in November 2021, with an expected release date for 2022.This announcement comes after Lohan shared a behind-the-scenes photo on her Instagram from a photoshoot in the Dubai desert.“The beginning of something…,” she captioned the photo of herself wearing a green gown in the desert at dusk.There’s clearly some exciting things happening for Lohan, who has called Dubai home for the last six years.The former child star opened up about life in Dubai last year during lockdown, in an interview with David Spade on his show Lights Out with David Spade.“I’ve lived here [in Dubai] — I have been here for about six years,” she said, noting how much the city has changed since she first visited 12 years ago.“I came here in 2008 when they’d just finished building the Atlantis Hotel and there was none of this here,” she explained. “There was no DIFC, Downtown, Dubai Mall… anything that there is now.”Lohan, who is a former Emirates Woman cover star, previously opened up about her move to the UAE.“Moving here was a fresh start,” she told EW. “You hear more about real current events rather than celebrity gossip, which I really appreciate.”She also added one of the main reasons she moved to Dubai was due to the “lack of paparazzi”.– For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram, Emirates Woman More

Palm Jumeriah – Dubai’s iconic man-made – is home to some of the emirate’s most luxurious resorts with an archipelago of havens all in one location, including delicious fine-dining spots worth visiting.With this giant hub being even spotted from space, there’s no denying that this one-of-a-kind venue is one to pay a visit to as you’ll now be aware of the luxury spots in the vicinity. With a monorail to help you get around, providing easy access to the hotels, you’re sure to have a truly unique experience.Emirates Woman has curated a concise guide on all the must-visit spots at The Palm, as you indulge in complete luxury.RestaurantsAprons & HammersWith the seafood experts now at The Palm’s West Beach, this delicious eatery offers an alfresco seating area with swimming and sunbathing facilities and fresh interiors as you sink in your toes in the sand and relish an array of delicious meals including lobster rolls, Mahi tacos, mac n cheese and much more.For more information visit apronsandhammers.comKoko BayAs an ode to Bali, Koko Bay offers a unique menu with key ingredients, legendary crafted cocktails and a luxe venue located at Palm West Beach while adding a sprinkle of European comforts for you to unwind no matter what time of the day. It’s open from Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 12am with Thursdays until 1am and Friday 8am to 11am, 12pm to 1am and Saturday 8am to 11am and 12pm to 12am.For more information visit kokobay.coIl PassaggioWith brilliantly crafted flavoursome dishes created with fresh ingredients, the menu is carefully prepared by a team of experts. Located at the Pointe, No 21 on Palm Jumeirah, it’s open daily from 8am to 12pm and has everything on the menu from artisanal bread to homemade pasta by their team of very own pasta wizards.For more information visit ilpassaggio.comLucky FishInspired by the flavours of the ocean and the Mediterranean region, this luxe venue highlights Italian, French and Spanish flavours, showcasing the highest quality of seafood and meats, as Lucky Fish works with local fisherman, in a kick-back setting with ambient beats. Open from 11am to 2am everyday, this delicious haven is located on West Beach.For more information visit luckyfishdubai.comNobuThis innovative Japanese-Peruvian restaurant is a winning formula that’s made Nobu a global culinary icon, with chic cocktails and Japanese tapas in the sake lounge, all offered with a Japanese twist. Open for dinner from 6pm to 11pm, It’s located at Atlantis, The Palm, it offers its very own sushi lounge in this grand hotel.For more information visit noburestaurants.comHotelsWaldorf Astoria The PalmA haven within the vibrant city of Dubai, the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah boasts a private soft-sanded beach, six distinct restaurants and lounges and elegant sea-facing guest rooms and suites. With amenities for a relaxing getaway, there are two temperature-controlled swimming pools, leisure activities for the family to enjoy for an unforgettable experience and unique dining havens including Social by Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck. The King Superior room starts at Dhs775 per room.For more information visit waldorfastoria3.hilton.comW Dubai – The PalmAmplify your experience at W Dubai with jaw-dropping views and dreamy amenities to the glow and glamour of the venue as you escape in the Middle East to this unknown adventure. From a relaxing time at the hotel’s WET deck or devouring dishes at the celebrity chef restaurants at Torno Subito and Akira Back, there’s plenty of activities with Dubai’s golden sun shinning at this hotspot accompanied by exhilarating water sports for the ultimate getaway.For more information visit mariott.comJumeirah Zabeel SarayWith Ottoman-inspired elegance on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, you can experience one of a kind opulence in this magnificent space as you savour the world’s finest food and drinks. The resort also plays host to a world of wellness with luxurious treatments and therapies for the face and body, as you make it a stay to remember. Superior King rooms starting at Dhs602 for UAE residents for one night and two people.For more information visit Jumeirah.comOne&Only The PalmDiscover the best of Dubai at this exclusive resort with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the city’s soaring skyline. This glittering island sanctuary is the perfect place to escape for a staycation as you unwind with scents of lush gardens, making it your opportunity to dress again. Whether a suite or a private beachfront villa, this mesmerizing venue showcases Andalusian architecture at its finest with Arabian treatments at Guerlain Spa, starting at Dhs2,700 per room, which includes the Palm Manor Premiere Room for two people.For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.comAnantara The PalmLocated just off the coast of Dubai, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort offers an exclusive beach escape while still enjoying the excitements of the city as you float on water, with lagoon access rooms and the UAE’s only overwater villas, while you unwind with hammam rituals at our the Palm Jumeriah hotel’s spa and take in the Thai-style luxury, for which the hotel is known for. The standard room residence prices start at Dhs746 per room for a maximum of three adults.For more information visit anantara.comShoppingApotheca BeautyWith this cult favourite store having all your most-loved brands under one roof, Apotheca Beauty has a brick-and-mortar store in Nakheel Mall with the most celebrated niche names across makeup, skincare, hair and fragrance accompanied with technologically advanced facial tools to meet all your beauty needs.For more information visit apothecabeauty.comElie SaabWhether you’re on the lookout for a wedding dress or a couture gown for a special occasion, this luxurious retail boutique is the first of its kind in the Middle East with exceptional service and a mesmerizing range of timepieces at The Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah.For more information visit eliesaab.comTutus KurniatiWhile merging traditional and new techniques with a luxury resort wear collection, the pieces at this concept store are made stylish, exciting and will last long after the season ends as you enjoy premium swimwear fresh off the runway guaranteed to get heads turning. Besides, the stores open and modern design creates a welcoming shopping space you’ll love, as it’s conveniently located in Nakheel Mall.For more information visit tutuskurnaiti.comActivitiesThe View at The PalmWith stunning 360-degree views, 240m above the world-famous Palm Jumeirah, guests are welcomed to visit the observatory to witness the Arabian Gulf and beyond from an outdoor terrace and a premium lounge, as you uncover hidden gems of this beautiful city.For more information visit theviewpalm.aeThe Lost Chambers AquariumIf you wish to delve deeper into the fascinating world of aquatic life, the UAE’s largest aquarium is packed with an array of incredible experiences and world-class exhibits showcasing these precious animals spanning over 65,000 marine animals as you take a behind-the-scenes tour or dive into the depths with an aquarium experience. This relaxing haven has tickets startingFor more information visit atlantis.comAquaventure WaterparkBeing one of the most adrenaline-fueled waterparks in the region, you can get your pulse racing on over 30 slides and attractions ranging from the rapids to the 1km of private beach area. While being more than a waterpark, this exciting arena has a range of new slides and attractions to encounters with the incredible marine animals to witness on your visit, with prices for the day pass starting at Dhs169 for UAE residents at Atlantis, The Palm.For more information visit atlantis.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @theviewpalm More

It’s been 17 years since the last episode of Friends aired, but this week but the beloved six-some – Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler and Ross – will reunite for the first time since the show’s end.Could we be any more excited? Probably not.Friends: The Reunion was announced it would be available on US streaming giant HBO Max, but now we’ve had confirmation on where you’ll be able to watch it in the UAE and the Middle East.OSN, the leading entertainment hub for the MENA region, will have Friends: The Reunion available on all its streaming platforms on May 27, 2021, meaning subscribers will be able to watch The One Where They Get Back Together as it airs with the rest of the world.Nick Forward, the Chief Digital & Content Officer of OSN, shared his excitement being about the “most anticipated TV event of the year”.“We are thrilled to be the exclusive home of Friends: The Reunion in the Middle East, adding to our vast library of content on OSN Streaming,” he said. “Friends is more than just an iconic show and has influenced pop culture across the world including the GCC region.[embedded content]“Now, in the most anticipated TV event of the year, fans can relive some memorable moments whilst getting an exclusive glimpse of what went on behind the scenes that made us all fall in love Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Phoebe and Joey. We are very excited and look forward to welcoming and entertaining our friends from across the region.”In the trailer for the reunion, Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer appear together reflecting on iconic moments from the show, doing a table read from notable scenes and also appear in the famous purple Friends apartment.There’s also a huge amount of A-list guests set to appear on the show including David Beckham, Justin Bieber, BTS, James Corden, Cindy Crawford, Cara Delevingne, Lady Gaga, Kit Harington, Larry Hankin, Mindy Kaling, Thomas Lennon, Christina Pickles, Tom Selleck, Reese Witherspoon, Malala Yousafzai and more.The infamous subject of Ross and Rachel’s relationship is brought up – the trailer even opens with Schwimmer questioning his co-stars over the length of the letter Rachel wrote him after they got back together (for probably the third or fourth time).And yes the famous question was asked to the cast – were Ross and Rachel really on a break? It seems to still divide opinions…We can’t be able to relive memories from the most iconic sitcom of all-time on OSN this Thursday, May 27.OSN Streaming can be accessed via websites and all mobile iOS and Android devices. The service costs $9.5 per month and includes a 7-day Free Trial, Stream now on stream.osn.com.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages & Media: Getty / Warner Bros. / HBO Max More

If you’re dreaming of the perfect summer getaway in Mykonos or Santorini this season, Flydubai is now offering flights to the Greek islands starting at Dhs2,500 for return.With flights available three times a week from June 18 to September 29, 2021, these deals are surely not one to miss as you escape from the bustling city life without breaking the bank.With a safe travel corridor being initiated from May 18 onwards, vaccinated passengers can move between the two countries under the agreement. Passengers must hold vaccination certificates issued by health authorities, allowing them to travel without quarantining on arrival, with the same rule being applied for those coming in from Greece.The available flights shall depart from Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB) to Mykonos International Airport (JMK) and Santorini (Thiara) Airport (JTE), with operations on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays with Business Class fares starting from Dhs8,000 and Economy Class fares starting from Dhs2,500.Jeyhun Efendi, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations and E-commerce at flydubai said, “We are pleased to offer our passengers convenient travel options this summer to some of the most popular holiday spots. Whether flying in Business or Economy Class or opting to purchase a flexible holiday package that includes flights, hotels stay and other add ons, flydubai is committed to making travel this summer more flexible and a little less stressful.”The other upcoming launches include flydubai flights to Bodrum and Trabzon in Turkey from June 4 and June 24, 2021, respectively including plans to flights to Naples in Italy and Salzburg in Austria from July onwards.You can also experience the flydubai app, as you book flights, check-in, choose seats and your meals on it, made exclusively for your convenience or book through the carrier’s website, its contact centre in Dubai, travel shops or travel partners.For more information or to make an advanced booking visit flydubai.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Boheme Mykonos More

Have you had one of the available COVID-19 vaccines in the UAE? If so, then it’s time to pack your bags for a holiday in Spain this summer.The popular holiday destination is gearing up to relax its COVID-19 restrictions, readying itself for an influx of visitors who have had one of the approved World Health Organisation (WHO) or European Medicines Agency vaccines – three of which are currently available in the UAE.At present, the approved COVID-19 vaccines include Sinopharm, Pfizer, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.In order to be able to enter Spain when its borders open to vaccinated tourists on Monday, June 7, 2021, you will need to have your second jab 14 days prior to your intended date of the holiday.Paper proof of vaccination is also required in English or Spanish.For families who have unvaccinated minors, a negative PCR test must be provided and those who are under six-years-old don’t need a test.In a statement, Daniel Rosado, director of Spanish Tourism for the Gulf countries, shared that the European holiday destination is hoping to receive “more than 50 per cent of the tourists [in 2021] that visited us in 2019.”BRB, we’ll be packing our bags now…– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Nobu Hotel Ibiza  More