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    8 cosy yet cavernous books to add to your winter read list

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    The sun is setting early, the wind is getting chilly and the leaves are turning crisp.
    It is officially the season to get cosy and curled up with your favourite books (and also, blast Taylor Swift’s ‘All Too Well’ unlimitedly).
    Extroverts might fight me on this, but an introverted bibliophile would much rather stay in than socialise. Image this: It’s dark and gloomy outisde, the temperature is just right, you make your favourite hot bevarage and sit in your reading nook with an interesting book – does anything else seem better? I think not.
    While one may read anything they please, but reading about a summer romance in this weather will not do justice to the modd you’re trying to create. Think mystical fantasies, vulnerable love stories and of course, murder mysteries – what? everybody loves a good homicide story.
    ‘Tis the season to nurture your soul, and do things that bring you joy.
    Take a look at out top picks for the 8 books you must cosy up with:

    All the above mentioned books are available on Amazon.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Amazon & Unsplash More

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    Sheikh Hamdan turns 41: 10 times the Crown Prince has given us wanderlust inspiration

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    November 14, 2023 marks His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s 41st birthday.
    To commemorate this day, we’ve paid a tribute to his interest in travel by highlighting all his adventurous escapades.
    From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.
    After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed.
    United Kingdom

    Sheikh Hamdan has been seen in London quite a few times over the years and even recently made a visit with his twins, Rashid and Shaika, to the Godolphin stables. Having previously studied at Royal Military College, Sandhurst, Fazza has a strong connection to the UK and is often seen taking a trip to one of his favourite destinations.
    Tanzania

    Exploring both nature and immersing himself in the culture, Sheikh Hamdan’s picture-perfect safari trip to Tanzania looked beyond idyllic. While being surrounded by wildlife, the thrill-seeker shared a series of clips while jumping over a large pool of water and exploring the dense forests. The trip was indeed an adventurous one with all the outdoor activities the royal was seen trying out.
    Japan

    In 2019, Sheikh Hamdan made a visit east to Japan. Regarded as a highly-trained fitness enthusiast, the Dubai royal was seen posing with bronze sculptures of rugby player Michael Leitch and sumo wrestler Tochinoshin Tsuyoshi. He was also captured taking some classes and trying some delicious food, he’s undoubtedly ticked off a host of must-visit venues on his trip to Japan. From grazing through the enchanted streets or travelling by the high-speed bullet train to Tokyo, make a note of all the must-dos on your next trip.
    South Korea

    Nearly three years ago, in 2019, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to Seoul in South Korea. He posted a photo of himself in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the country’s must-visit attractions. Along with his Uncle Saeed, they visited historic spots in the city, as well as enjoyed matcha milkshakes, a very popular drink of choice in East Asia.
    Estonia

    In 2018, Sheikh Hamdan took his riding skills international, participating in a 160km endurance race in Estonia. During his travels in the Eastern European country, he also shared a series of photos of him cycling in Estonia along with his friend Saeed Jabber Al Harbi.
    Uzbekistan

    There’s no doubt, that Sheikh Hamdan is always seen posing in the great outdoors. His recent trip to Uzbekistan in November 2021 consisted of all the engaging activities such as camping, falconry, exploring nature and also visiting some of the local residents in the country.
    USA

    Back in 2018, Dubai’s Crown Prince travelled to the USA visiting popular cities like Chicago and New York City.
    Denmark

    Spotted on this self-governing archipelago, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands is known for its picturesque coastal cliffs and gorgeous open skies. Seen taking a selfie with nature, this popular photo was all over social media.
    Canada

    Exploring the peaks of British Columbia, the royal was seen enjoying this snow-filled holiday on Canada’s ski slopes back in 2019. This stunning wintry escape is everything one looks for in the cooler months. Snowboarding, snow-cover buildings and spruce trees were some of the elements which truly made this holiday complete.
    Italy

    Seen posing in the popular frame shot with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sheikh Hamdan visited Italy in 2017, as the snap was captured with perfect precision. From relishing some delicious pasta to walking on the cobbled steps, this beautiful destination is one to add to your list too.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @faz3 More

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    All the pieces to add to your home for a cosy winter

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    30 mins ago

    With the weather cooling down and all the holiday festivities around the corner, finding the right pieces can instantly elevates your home.
    Plush accents, heavier fabrics, and seasonal patterns all add an extra layer of comfort to your home during the warm winter months
    From faux foliage to Christmas wreaths, there’s a host of small touches to make your house feel like a home this season.
    So, if you want to revamp your space, try these decorating ideas to turn your home into a warm and welcoming space throughout the fall and winter.

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

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    The secret is out: 15 unique speakeasies to visit in Dubai for a night out

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    13 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 15 IMAGES
    For the ultimate hidden experience, speakeasies are the best way to get to know any city.
    What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today, that has now gained popularity in different parts of the world.
    After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights. What first needed a password to enter is now open to the public, however, it’s only if you know you know.
    To champion this undying spirit, Dubai has opened a plethora of speakeasies that add a hint of mystery from the moment you enter.
    So, if you’re up for a little prohibition-style secrecy, Emirates Woman is here to help with all the underground bars that are worth a visit.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber More

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    In the office with the Founders of Lulu & The Beanstalk at ICD Brookfield Place

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    Founders of Lulu & The Beanstalk, Wafa and Amirah Tajdin, talk to Emirates Woman about their hangout spot imbued with cosy familiarity and cool energy in ICD Brookfield Place and how it reflects their heritage and personalities.
    How long have you been in this space?
    We’ve been open since September 2022, so just over a year.
    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    Most of the space was a labour of love from our designer whose signature style is upcycling and re-inventing classic and iconic design pieces. She upcycled six of the Artek dining chairs, complemented by a beautiful Kooij table, and above that sits a one-off lamp designed for use by New York-based Japanese artist Yuko Nishikawa. Our most iconic custom décor is our centerpiece chandelier which was crafted by the whimsical team of Willow Lamp in South Africa. The bar front was a terrazzo design commissioned locally.
    How do you think the interior reflects you?
    Mama Lulu was a woman who loved colours, and her world was filled with them. That was important for us to recreate through the lens of our designer and a big reason why we went with a female designer as well as she has an authentic understanding of curves, colours and texture. It was also important to evoke our island heritage (we have roots in Lamu and Mombasa in Kenya) and to capture the feeling of warmth and community that our grandmother’s home symbolised not just for us growing up, but our family and community as a whole in Nairobi and now through her spirit, Dubai.
    Describe your taste in three words.
    Warm, welcoming and delicately tasteful.
    November – The Refinement Issue with Jimmy Choo  – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Photography by Mark Mathew More

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    The best turkey takeaways to purchase in Dubai for the upcoming festivities

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    If you’re looking to plan an intimate Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner at home, the holiday bird might just be the perfect open to make it a special one this year.
    This centerpiece main dish will ensure you skip the grocery line and opt for a gourmet option for all your guests as it comes accompanied with all the stuffing and trimmings to celebrate with your loved ones.
    Tailored to every appetite, Emirates Woman has curated a ready-to-eat guide of Turkey offerings to delight in this season in Dubai for a cosy evening in.
    Jones The Grocer

    The classic roast turkey is priced at Dhs795, the roast turkey with sides is priced at Dhs1,049, the Silver package including roast turkey with premium sides and apple cinnamon pie or a pumpkin pie is priced at Dhs1,189, the Gold package including roast turkey with premium sides and the artisan cheese board or artisan charcuterie board is priced at Dhs1,449 and the Diamond Package with premium sides, a choice of artisan cheese board or charcuterie board and a choice of apple cinnamon pie or pumpkin pie is Dhs1,559. Guests are encouraged to pre-order online or at their nearest Jones the Grocer outlet – whether it be for Thanksgiving or Christmas, or just a jolly festive feast, Jones the Grocer is the ultimate choice for your festive needs and each package serves 8 to 10 people with a a sage and apricot stuffed roast turkey with cranberry sauce and juniper-infused gravy. The turkey takeaway option is available across all stores in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.
    For more information visit jonesthegrocer.com
    Reform Social & Grill

    A classic British whole roasted turkey takeaway with all the trimmings including roast vegetables, brussels sprouts, cabbage, stuffing, gravy & cranberry sauce. Available from November 16 to December 25, 2023, the offering for four people is for Dhs440 and for 8 people is for Dhs680. Located at The Lakes, it’s open from12pm until 11pm.
    For more information visit reformsocialgrill.ae
    Couqley

    Available for dine-in or takeaway with a 72-hour notice, customers can now order Couqley’s full turkey feast that serves groups of 8 to 10 people. The loved French restaurant’s traditional turkey is served with a selection of sides including aromatic mushroom stuffing, roasted brussels sprouts, potato gratin, truffle mac & cheese and roasted vegetables, as well as their signature cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy. The whole turkey is priced at Dhs799, the whole turkey with sides including all sides plus Gravy and Cranberry is Dhs1,199 for 800grams each side. Additional sides can be added starting for Dhs49.
    For more information visit couqley.ae
    Bull & Bear

    One of the city’s most exquisite restaurant’s located at Waldorf Astoria DIFC has a Turkey takeaway option from November 15 until December 23, where guests can choose between a Whole Turkey with all the trimmings included beetroot cured salmon, valhrona bruche noel and a festive pudding for Dhs1,245. The turkey takeaway options serve between 6 to 8 people, and must be pre-ordered at least 48 hours in advance allowing guests to spend more time with loved ones. Orders can be placed via WhatsApp 058 600 6776 between 9am to 6pm.
    For more information visit newsroom.hilton.com
    Raffles The Palm

    For families looking for a regal festive feast to enjoy in the comfort of their home, Raffles The Palm’s Turkey to Go offers a convenient option for a mouth-watering turkey roast, with no hassle. Guests can order the roasted turkey 48 hours in advance and collect it from the hotel’s grand Patisserie, next to Blüthner Hall. The roasted turkey can be accompanied by a choice of traditional trimmings, such as stuffing and cranberry sauce, along with indulgent desserts, including classic Christmas pudding. The takeaway festive option is priced from Dhs550 and is available from November 23 until January 2, 2024
    For more information visit rafflesthepalm.com
    The Duck Hook

    Enjoy a relaxing holiday with the perfect roast Turkey delivered right to your door, just in time to impress your guests. Packages include chilled par-cooked boneless turkey breast, served with all the signature trimmings, desserts, mince pies and crackers. Vegan and Gluten-Free alternatives are also available. The Delivery dates are from December 8 to 10, 15 to 17, 22 to 25, 29 to 30 and pick up is available from Jumeirah Emirates Towers from 22nd to 25, and 31 December. It’s priced at Dhs495 for two people, Dhs825 for four people, Dhs1,540 for eight people and Dhs2,365 for twelve. Guests can avail the 20 percent discount all packages, when ordered are pre-booked before November 15, 2023.
    For more information visit here.
    Lobby Lounge at Address Boulevard

    Those looking to have an extra delicious holiday season at home can enjoy the Festive takeaways including sweet and savoury treats that will enhance the celebrations. Whether it’s a scrumptious Turkey or festive desserts, the selection from the Festive Desk will allow guests to be wowed from the comfort of their own home with grab & go goodies from the Lobby Lounge. It’s priced at Dhs599 per turkey for 6 to 8 people and Dhs290 per kg of Panettone and is available from December 15 to 31, 2023, from 10am to 4pm.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash  More

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    The Berkeley: Elevate your stay in London by residing in this modern-classic property

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    The Berkeley hotel in London delivers top tier service with a modern cool. If you want location combined with a cool factor, this is it.
    The Stay

    Situated right in the beating heart of the city yet with the kind of peace that feels a world away from the fast pace of London’s inner city – The Berkeley is the ultimate if you’re looking for refined stay that delivers old school service with a modern eye for detail. With a selection of rooms and suites, The Berkeley flexes around your needs whether you’re on a swift business trip alone or booking in for the festive period with extended family. Cosy fireplaces make for the perfect detail to enjoy during winter andwith views of Hyde Park and Knightsbridgeyou’ll feel like this is your second home just a stone’s throw away from the best shopping in town and a five-minute walk from Harrods.
    The Dining

    The Collins Room is airy and feels cosy yet spacious making it the ideal location to dine whether you’re travelling alone of meeting friends. The chic interiors are designedby by Robert Angell and create the perfect backdrop for the super popular Prêtà- Portea. Also, not to be missed is Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley — With a string of accolades citing him as the best pastry chef in the world, Cédric Grolet – known for his trompe-l’oeil artistry, fruits and flowers – has opened the doors to his first patisserie outside of France, Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley in London. This is popular from morning until late afternoon – so schedule yourself an hour to indulge.
    The Wellness

    The Bamford Wellness Spa at The Berkeley delivers a sense of the Cotswolds within the confines of the city. You’ll feel a different pace of life wash over you as you indulge in a choice of refined, holistic treatments within the luxurious, ample sized rooms. The perfect predinner treats to have you feeling your best.
    November – The Refinement Issue with Jimmy Choo  – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Festive blues: Can’t make it home? Here’s how to still feel the spirit around

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    21 mins ago

    In the symphony of the holiday season, there’s a nostalgic melody that often tugs at our hearts — the desire to be home for the festivities.
    Yet, life’s intricate score sometimes plays a different tune, leading us away from the familiar warmth of our hometowns.
    Whether distance or circumstances keep you from making it home this festive season, fear not! In the spirit of embracing the season wherever you are, here’s how you can beat the holiday blues and feel the magical essence of the holidays.
    Create a cozy corner at home

    Transform a corner of your space into a festive haven. Adorn it with twinkling lights, plush blankets, and a touch of greenery. This snug nook will become your personal retreat, radiating warmth even in the absence of familial hearths.
    Virtual celebrations

    via GIPHY

    In our technologically connected era, the distance between hearts can be bridged with a simple click. Arrange virtual gatherings with loved ones, sharing laughter, stories, and perhaps even participating in a virtual gift exchange. The pixels on the screen may not replace physical presence, but they can certainly amplify the joy of togetherness.
    Cultural cuisine

    Transport yourself home through the magic of flavours. Experiment with recipes that echo the festive feasts of your roots. Whether it’s the aroma of spices or the taste of a traditional dish, let your taste buds become a passport to the heart of the celebration.
    Celebrate festive traditions with your current community

    via GIPHY

    Discover and embrace the festive traditions wherever you are, with the community you’ve built for yourself. Whether it’s friends like family or colleagues, visit them or invite them over. Explore holiday markets, and partake in customs. By immersing yourself in these celebrations, you’re not only broadening your cultural horizons but also cultivating a sense of belonging.
    While the yearning for home during the holidays may persist, let this season be a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Through a blend of creativity, technology, and a dash of festive magic.
    So, wherever you find yourself this season, may it be filled with the unmistakable spirit of love, togetherness, and the timeless magic of the holidays.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image & GIFS: Instagram: @sarashakeel,  Pinterest & Giphy  More