Raphael Stevens

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Dubai’s most elegant Jazz venues to unwind in style

    Life

    14 mins ago

    With International Jazz Day, celebrated on April 30th, Dubai has a myriad of Jazz spots in Dubai to celebrate the occasion.
    After a long week at work, a sophisticated evening with jazz is one of the best ways to wind down.
    Having been around for years, jazz has become a staple in our lives with its soulful sounds of classics in an opulent setting. As we delve into the world of pure musical bliss in Dubai, knowing how it all began, sheds light on how these hotspots focus on authenticity.
    The History
    Jazz began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, primarily in the culturally diverse city of New Orleans, Louisiana. It emerged from a blend of African American musical traditions with European influences, creating a new, vibrant style of music.
    During Prohibition, from the 1920s’ jazz thrived in illegal speakeasies where people came to drink, dance, and listen to live performances.
    Early on it began as a hybrid of African rhythms, European harmonies, and American culture. However, it quickly became a vehicle for self-expression, improvisation, and artistic innovation. It spread from New Orleans to the world, evolving into a rich and diverse genre with numerous subgenres and global influence.
    Overall, Dubai has a lively scene with a mix of upscale venues and intimate settings. The emirate boasts a vibrant jazz scene, offering a variety of venues where you can enjoy live performances in stylish settings. Here are some top jazz bars and lounges in the city:​
    Here are some popular spots to enjoy live jazz in Dubai:
    Q’s Bar and Lounge

    Located at Palazzo Versace, the space offers an intimate venue created by legendary music producer Quincy Jones. The atmosphere is luxurious and chic, offering performances by world-class musicians. It ensured the perfect blend of great music, fantastic cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere.
    For more information visit Q’s Bar and Lounge
    Jass Lounge

    First of all, the bar is just how a Jazz Club should be, dark and sultry but with a large sprinkling of DIFC with its first-class cocktail experience. All you need to do is sit back and be entertained by the fantastic selection of musicians that they have on their roster. It’s a place where art attracts art and often fellow musicians who frequent the venue as spectators can’t help themselves but join the fun and contribute to the show, adding to the eclectic atmosphere of the venue. It’s open daily from 6pm until late in DIFC Gate District 2.
    For more information visit Jass Lounge
    Sola Jazz Lounge

    Experience an evening of live jazz at the award-winning SOLA Jazz Lounge, taking guests on an authentic one-of-a-kind journey. Romanticize your evening and immerse in the world of Jazz to go back in time to a vintage era. Here guests are immediately engulfed with thrilling music by world-renowned jazz artists, bands, and hotly-tipped rising stars, accompanied by a wide selection of cocktails and perfect end to the evening. With each programme designed by the team’s designated music curator, this evening is not one to miss out on. Located at Raffles The Palm, it’s open from 5pm to 3am.
    For more information visit raffles.com
    Nola Eatery & Social House
    This New Orleans-inspired venue offers Southern American cuisine alongside live jazz music. It’s a casual and lively place with a focus on laid-back jazz vibes. Located in JLT, NOLA revolves around music and evolves throughout the day to create an immersive ambience from day into the late night. Delivering a sensational music experience rooted in Jazz and complimentary genres. Guests can expect live performances by the loved Nuvo Soul band complimented by high-energy jazz and soul beats by the in-house resident DJ.
    For more information visit Nola Eatery & Social House
    BOCA
    A stylish Mediterranean restaurant in the DIFC that occasionally hosts jazz nights. The ambiance is elegant, and the jazz complements the fine dining experience.
    For more information visit Boca.
    The Fridge

    As a hub for independent musicians and live performances. The Fridge often hosts jazz events in its artistic warehouse space.Located in Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz. If you’re looking for a more underground, artistic vibe in Dubai’s arts district, this is the space to be.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram  More

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    in health and weelbeing

    “PMS Symptoms Ruled My Life Till I Started Cycle Syncing”

    For most of her life, 33-year-old Daniella Corder from Cape Town was plagued with severe symptoms of PMS. That is, of course, until she heard about cycle syncing. This is her success story.How It Began“Up until my late 20s, I knew absolutely nothing about my menstrual cycle,” explains Daniella. “I just assumed that the painful cramps, sore breasts, hormonal acne and cravings were an inevitable thing to endure each month.”“For many years I struggled with severe hormonal acne and as a result, I went on countless courses of antibiotics, lotions and potions to try and fix my skin – but nothing worked.”READ MORE: Cycle Syncing – How (And Why!) To Tweak Your Workouts, Diet And More Around Your Menstrual Cycle“During this point in my life, my approach to health and fitness was terribly warped as I was fixated on doing intense HIIT classes five to six times a week and restricting what I ate. It even got so bad that I lost my period at one point.” “I just assumed that the painful cramps, sore breasts, hormonal acne and cravings were an inevitable thing to endure each month.”The Change“One day, my sister sent me a podcast about ‘eating and training according to your menstrual cycle’,” Daniella recalls. “The more I learnt about PMS, the more I came to understand that even though PMS is common, it’s not normal at all.”“Through the knowledge that I have acquired over the years, I have tailored my training, eating and lifestyle according to my unique menstrual cycle and hormonal fluctuations,” she says. Most of us know this as the wellness practice called ‘cycle syncing‘.READ MORE: These Unusual PMS Symptom Treatments Actually Work – Minus PainkillersWhat Is Cycle Syncing?Knowledge boost: Cycle syncing is the idea of matching how you eat, work, exercise and recover to the stages of your menstrual cycle. The Result“Now, my skin has cleared up, I get better results in the gym; I sleep better and have more energy. My cramps have gone from an eight to a two,” Daniella explains.“I became a certified menstrual cycle health and fitness coach and [create] all of my fitness programmes around the menstrual cycle.”READ MORE: Painful Periods? PCOS? Meet The Hormone-Balancing Supps“When we start living in alignment with our hormones, not only do we feel more empowered and have more compassion for ourselves, we also have a greater understanding of ourselves and achieve long-lasting results.” How To Start Cycle Syncing?If you want to give cycle syncing a try, we created a step-by-step guide for everything you need to know right here. More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    12 fine dining restaurants that define Riyadh’s vibrant culinary scene

    Life

    56 seconds ago

    Saudi Arabia’s dining scene has evolved into a global culinary destination, boasting everything from Michelin-starred imports to homegrown gastronomic gems. These luxurious fine dining Riyadh establishments offer not just exceptional food, but unforgettable experiences that rival the world’s best dining capitals.
    Swipe through to mark your favorites for your next Riyadh trip

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Supplied More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    10 luxurious UAE staycations that feel like a world away

    Life

    48 mins ago

    From gliding through silent mangrove forests by private boat to waking in a Santorini-inspired villa suspended above turquoise waters, the UAE’s most exceptional staycations transform ordinary weekends into extraordinary escapes.
    Whether you crave the romance of a desert fort under star-filled skies, the thrill of an overwater retreat where flamingos skim the waves, or the serenity of a palm-fringed lagoon, these addresses deliver singular experiences—all just a short journey from home.
    Below, we unveil 10 of the most extraordinary boutique staycation spots across the emirates, each a masterpiece of design, service, and location, proving beyond doubt that sometimes the most remarkable journeys are the shortest.
    Here are our favorite staycation spots in the UAE

    In a country that redefines luxury at every turn, these exceptional escapes prove the UAE does staycations better than anywhere else. Whether you seek avant-garde design, untouched nature, or pure indulgence, your perfect staycation awaits—no passport required.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Supplied More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    National Matcha Day: 14 of the best matcha spots in Dubai

    Obsessed with matcha? Us too. As the health benefits outweigh everything, let us look at some of the best Dubai Matcha cafés to visit this National Matcha Day.
    Known for its host of health benefits, matcha is best for both its energising and detoxifying properties. This highly sought-after drink is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which help fight inflammation and support heart health. It provides a steady energy boost without the jitters of coffee, thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus. Matcha also supports metabolism, aiding in weight management, and may enhance brain function, improving memory and concentration.
    When is National Matcha Day?
    National Matcha Day is celebrated annually on May 2. Established in 2021 by Jade Leaf Matcha, this day honors the rich history and cultural significance of matcha, a finely ground green tea powder integral to Japanese tea ceremonies and culinary traditions. Overall, this period is considered optimal for harvesting tea leaves, as they are believed to yield the highest quality matcha. By choosing this date, National Matcha Day pays homage to the generations of tea farmers and the cultural heritage of matcha production​
    So, if you’re looking to skip coffees and adapt to a natural source of caffeine, Dubai offers an array of chlorophyll-infused beverages that we simply can’t resist.
    AVANTCHA Tea Bar

    The pioneering avant-garde tea beverage now has a first-of-its-kind flagship destination in Dubai. This launch marks the beginning of a new era for tea enthusiasts, offering an immersive sensory experience that transforms tea into a lifestyle. Additionally, loyal Matcha enthusiasts can benefit from the Matcha Latte Loyalty Card, which rewards customers with a free Matcha Latte after every ten purchases. The AVANTCHA Tea Bar is more than a place to drink tea — it’s a destination to experience tea’s artistry, culture, and future—a world where every sip tells a story. With a myriad of matcha creations, guests are completely spoiled for choice.
    For more information visit avantcha.com
    Backyard

    ​Backyard is a popular café in Dubai known for its authentic matcha offerings. They use the finest organic matcha sourced directly from Japan to ensure a genuine experience. Their matcha menu includes unique beverages like the Matcha Cloud, Pink Cloud Matcha, Mermaid Matcha, and Military Matcha, with prices ranging from Dhs30 to Dhs38. For a sweet treat, they offer a Matcha and White Chocolate Cookie priced at Dhs9. Backyard has multiple locations across Dubai, including Meydan South and Umm Suqeim 2, and offers delivery services through platforms like Deliveroo and Talabat. ​
    For more information visit bckyrd.ae
    The Matcha Tokyo

    The Matcha Tokyo, located at The Beach, JBR in Dubai, is an authentic Japanese matcha café offering 100% organic matcha sourced from Uji, Kyoto. With a minimalist design, it provides a serene space for matcha lovers to enjoy drinks like iced and frozen matcha lattes, along with treats like matcha brownies. The café also sells retail matcha products for home brewing. Known for its commitment to quality and tradition, The Matcha Tokyo brings an elevated tea experience to Dubai, making it a must-visit for matcha enthusiasts
    Peaq Wellness

    Situated in the heart of Dubai’s premium boutique padel club, this urban sanctuary brings the perfect blend of Japanese with Parisian. Surrounded by a padel court and yoga studio, this culinary space is a home for must-try wellness activities. With a wholesome menu, the café serves both iced and hot matcha with an array of alternative milk choices to choose from.
    Nette, Inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz. Open daily 8am to 10pm.  matcha-club.ae
    Bageri Form

    Inspired by Scandinavian design, this artisanal café was elevating bakery classics and serving dishes with the freshest of ingredients. With Nordic-infused interiors, the bakery also serves freshly sourced matcha in minimal cups for a rejuvenating start to the day. With an aesthetic presentation, this place is beyond Instagrammable-worthy.
    Bageri Form, Dubai Design District, Building 4. Open Monday to Thursday 7:30am to 8pm, Friday to Sunday 8:30am to 10pm. bageriform.com. 
    LDC Kitchen + Coffee

    For an enticing spot to dine with your friends, this restaurant is an ideal smart working space that brings a healthy twist to all its culinary delights. Without limiting the menu to coffees and smoothies, this delightful place offers both iced and hot matcha’s in an inviting atmosphere.
    LDC Ktichen + Coffee, One JLT, One Business Centre DMCC. Open daily 7am to 1am.
    The Grey

    Known for its minimalist décor and creative space, this café is designed as a venue where creative minds can meet. With a twist to your usual matcha, the café serves a coconut-infused iced matcha latte that comes with boba, making it a speciality.
    The Grey, Al Wasl, Al Safa 1, open from Sunday to Thursday 7:30am to 11pm, Friday & Saturday 8am to 12pm. the-grey.co. 
    Flow Kitchen

    This healthy eating creative hub serves a plethora of conscious eating meals and drinks including vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options. With ethically sourced ingredients from around the globe, this café serves vegan matcha lattes, ensuring every customer’s need is met.
    Flow and Jumeirah Emirates Towers.  flowdubai.com
    % Arabica

    Designed to embody a strong Japanese aesthetic, this café expands beyond the world of coffee. With a futuristic touch to serving beverages, this haven becomes the perfect go-to spot for unwinding after a long day or a mid-day break. With latte art, this deliciously offered matcha is sure to boost your energy levels.
    % Arabica, Mall of the Emirates, City Walk, Dubai Mall and many more. arabica.coffee
    Blu Matcha

    blu matcha has become a matcha haven for those seeking moments of blissful relaxation and a taste of pure matcha magic. As Matcha Pioneers in the bustling city of Dubai, curating the finest quality Japanese matcha to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your soul.
    For more information visit blumatchacafe.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @aatras More

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    7 empowering female Saudi artists you need to know about

    Life

    33 mins ago

    With a budding art culture sweeping the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, there are several noteworthy Saudi artists who have made an impact in the creative industry.
    From paintings to installations displayed at various exhibitions, these artists are part of the Kingdom’s urban landscape as important messages are conveyed through each piece created.
    Manal AlDowayan

    From capturing highly skilled women working in her highly acclaimed I Am series (2005) to recording fatal accidents involving women school teachers, Manal Al Dowayan highlights unjust social customs through her pieces while also offering channels for women in the Kingdom through her workshops. By addressing her plea of change through her works of art, Manal has also participated in exhibitions regionally at renowned institutions such as the Sharjah Art Foundation.
    To find out more details about her work visit manaldowayan.com
    Huda Beydoun

    The Saudi artist and photographer began her career by teaching children with autism and then eventually ventured into her passion for photography. Capturing the images of the lives of illegal immigrants in Saudi Arabia, her work was published in a series entitled Documenting The Undocumented. After honing her craft, Huda has also started her own agency.
    Mawadah Muhtasib

    Jeddah-based artist Mawdah Muhtasib has always been passionate about art since an early age and has been celebrated for her distinguished paintings across the globe. she also created the first-ever Arabic Calligraffiti typeface that is a combination of Calligraffiti paintings and mirrored Arabic letters. Madwash’s Calligraffiti is a beautiful decorative contemporary Arabic handwritten typeface that is exclusively and exceptionally written from left to right. It is a celebration of a merge of two eras, the legacy of Arabic Calligraphy and the progressiveness of graffiti Art.
    To find out more details about her work visit mawadahmuhtasib.com
    Noura Bouzo

    While not only co-founding the first Arts and Culture magazine in Saudi Arabia and becoming its creative director, Noura is a full-time artist who presents her work at various exhibitions. Known for her most recent exhibition ‘A Miniature (Af)fair, Noura’s works largely cast light on modern Saudi society, making her one of the most playful artists of her time.
    To find out more details about her work visit nourabouzo.com
    Raeda Ashour

    Specializing in miniatures, motifs and Islamic decorative units, Raeda Ashour uses her strong visual sense to incorporate elements inspired by the old Arabian cities with its famous architectural and aesthetic features, as she closely delves into the subject through her practice. By honing her own style through her background, Raeda is highly respected in the art realm for her impactful work.
    For more information visit raedaashour.com
    Sarah Al-Abdali

    Emerging as one of the kingdom’s first street artists, Sarah’s work explores Arab culture and Islamic philosophy in every realm through innovative sources of demonstration such as illustration, painting, ceramics, woodwork, drawing and painting. With her deep appreciation for the land and heritage of her home, Abdali experiments with traditional crafts of the Islamic world as seen in exhibitions around the country.
    To find more details about her work visit sarahalabdali.com
    Lulwah Al-Homoud

    Known as a pioneer in the art industry in Saudi Arabia, Lulwah Al Homoud explores the world of calligraphy and Islamic philosophy carefully through her work. Having published books organizing exhibitions and promoting cross-cultural research, Al Homoud presents a fluid movement through her work which represents both simpleness and complexity, as each piece is balanced.
    To find out more details of her work visit lulwahalhomoud.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @lulwah_al_homoud More

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    in health and weelbeing

    Heads Up – Flu Season Has Already Begun. Here’s How To Prepare

    Nothing marks the end of summer quite like the onset of flu season. This year, it’s arrived a full four weeks earlier than last year – the earliest start since 2010. Typically, flu season in South Africa starts in April and peaks in early June.In case you weren’t sure, the flu is a virus, meaning it grows and changes in time, like a living organism. Every year, flu strains change, and our bodies need to keep up to fight infection. “While some people let these viruses run their course without taking precautionary steps, people must know that complications from flu, like pneumonia and the effects of flu combined with other health conditions, can be very serious, even fatal,” warns Dr Noluthando Nematswerani, Head of the Centre for Clinical Excellence at Discovery Health.Which Strains Are Circulating This Flu Season?Every February and September, the World Health Organisation (WHO) organises technical consultations to recommend the viruses to include in influenza vaccines for the upcoming Northern and Southern Hemisphere influenza seasons. Since the influenza virus is constantly evolving, updating vaccines is crucial to ensure their continued effectiveness against circulating strains.This year, the trivalent vaccine has been formulated to protect against these three strains that are expected to be most prevalent during the 2025 flu season in the Southern Hemisphere:Influenza A (H1N1): One of the most common in recent years, which is sometimes referred to as swine flu.

    Influenza A (H3N2): Another common influenza A strain that typically circulates each year. It is often associated with more severe illness in older adults.

    Influenza B (Victoria lineage): This strain is also frequently found in circulation and has been shown to demonstrate elevated infection rates in children.READ MORE: 10 Cold And Flu Remedies That Actually WorkWhat Should I Do During Flu Season?While an early start doesn’t mean that this flu season will be more severe than others, it does mean it’s time to ramp up your medicine closet’s supply and schedule your flu vaccine, if you haven’t done so already. To prevent spreading the flu or keep yourself from getting sick, add these practices:Wash your hands often

    Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue

    Avoid close contact with people who are sick

    Stay home if you are feeling unwellPer the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve within three to seven days, seek medical attention.Is It Too Late To Get Vaccinated?Short answer: no. Although the vaccine is most effective when given before the season starts, “it is not too late to get vaccinated,” says the NICD in a press release. “Protection develops about two weeks after vaccination, and annual vaccination is needed as flu viruses change over time and protection does not last from one year to the next.”READ MORE: Missed A Dose? It Could Be Costing More Than You ThinkWhy Should I Get The Flu Vaccine?The vaccine protects not just yourself but others around you from getting ill or with serious complications. For most people, flu symptoms are mild and resolve in a few days. But for some, influenza can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, or even death. Those most at risk include:Pregnant women

    People living with HIV

    Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, tuberculosis, kidney disease, or obesity

    Older adults (65 years and older)

    Children younger than 2 yearsGiven the burden of disease already plaguing South Africans and a lack of water in some provinces, leading to a decline in basic hygiene, it’s more important than ever to prevent the onset of the flu. Aside from eating foods that boost your immunity and taking your vitamins, getting a vaccination is the best defence against new strains of the virus.Although the vaccine is most effective when given before the season starts, it’s not too late to get vaccinated. Protection develops about two weeks after the jab, and annual vaccination is needed since flu viruses change over time and protection does not last from one year to the next.How Do Vaccinations Work?Once you’ve been injected, your body develops the necessary antibodies to fight off the flu, which usually takes about two weeks. For this reason, now is the best time to get vaccinated – by the time flu season hits, you’re likely immune. And the idea that the vaccine makes you sick? It could happen that you are exposed to the flu virus before or during the two-week period that it takes to develop virus antibodies or become exposed to a circulating seasonal strain not included in the vaccine. Other illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms to the flu.READ MORE: “I Ignored My Symptoms For 10 Years. It Turned Out To Be This Life-Altering Condition.”Where Can I Get The Flu Shot In South Africa?Pharmacies in your area should be able to administer the shot. You can try Medirite, Clicks and Dis-Chem. Public health clinics and hospitals also offer the jab.You Can Get The Flu Vax For Free If…The National Department of Health provides influenza vaccination free of charge to healthcare workers, individuals aged 65 years and older, individuals with cardiovascular disease (including chronic heart disease, hypertension, or stroke), diabetes, chronic lung disease (including asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), immunosuppressive conditions (e.g. living with HIV and AIDS, or malignancy), as well as pregnant women. More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Weekend Files: Find out what the Emirates Woman team is doing this weekend

    Life

    34 seconds ago

    The weekend in Dubai is a sacred time to unwind, recharge, and indulge in the little joys that make life sweeter – whether it’s savoring a comforting meal by the water, catching up on the latest binge-worthy series, or treating yourself to a much-needed beauty refresh.
    For the Emirates Woman team, these precious days off are all about balancing relaxation with self-care, good food, and personal rituals that leave us feeling polished and inspired for the week ahead. From lash tints that elevate a no-makeup look to nourishing hair treatments in serene salons to lo, here’s a glimpse into how we’re spending our downtime – along with the beauty picks we swear by for that effortless glow.
    Amy Sessions – Publisher/Editor

    My weekends are usually reserved for personal development, so I love to listen to podcasts and read. I’m currently reading How to Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell which is great. I’ll also be visiting BROWZ for lash tint, I prefer to keep things minimal beauty wise so this is great so you still feel polished without make-up.
    Restaurant pick: Kokoro is my new favorite, a toro handroll is a weekend must!
    Check the place out here.
    Camille Macawili – Fashion Editor

    I’m treating my hair to a well-deserved nourishing treatment at Twice Salon this weekend. It’s a two-floor salon in Downtown Boulevard with chic interiors and minimalistic colour palette that’s just entices you to relax – can’t wait!
    Skincare Pick:  I have recently added this tinted moisturizer from Hourglass in my makeup kit. It goes on very light on the skin for that no-makeup makeup look, gives you a subtle sheen, and does not break me out – a winner!
    Check it out here.
    Sarah Joseph – Digital Style Editor
    This weekend, I’ll be working on my fitness routine and going for a Pilates Studio at The LOB and then trying the new Japanese restaurant Kiyoshi at Dubai Creek Harbour.

    Beauty picks: I enjoy the Summer Friday’s ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen, check it out here. I also love the Kosas concealer from Sephora – it’s super easy to use and light to carry around especially when I’m on the go.
    Aminath Ifasa – Senior Reporter

    This weekend, I’ll be dining at my comfort food place Wokyo in Al Seef with delicious ramen and beautiful views of the Dubai creek with boats passing by, and catch up on the newly released series You.
    Beauty Pick: My go-to lipstick is the Isabel rosewood lipstick from Gucci, which gives a natural flush of color to my lips.
    Check it out here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Supplied More