lifestyle and culture

Subterms

    More stories

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Book your tickets for the ultimate cold escape this year

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Amy Sessions
      2 hours ago

      Looking to travel and in need of inspiration on where to go? We’re here to help.
      The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

      This unique hotel immerses guests in nature embedded in the lava formations and turquoise geothermal pools of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon complex, which is situated within the UNESCO Global Geopark. The spa is stand-alone in its design aesthetic and boasts both indoor and outdoor baths and treatments that make use of the site’s mineral-rich geothermal waters and naturally occurring materials, including silica and algae.
      For more information visit bluelagoon.com
      The Reykjavik EDITION

      This sophisticated hotel brings the first 5-star modern luxury experience to one of the world’s most sustainable capitals. The hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the wonders of the region, with the renowned Blue Lagoon within driving distance and the Northern Lights visible in the city during the winter solstice. A trip to the spa is also not to be missed.
      For more information visit editionhotels.com
      What to pack

      December’s – The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How I got my job as… Founder of Dubai design firm Concept Me

      by

      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen 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 French entrepreneur and architect Nina Parvaresh, founder of Concept Me. The Dubai design firm first launched in 2008, branding itself as a “multi-disciplinary boutique studio” in the emirate. “Creativity is at the core of what we do, being able to bring life and soul to high-end residential projects,” the founder says.
      Emirates Woman sat down with Parvaresh to discuss the making of Concept Me and all of the ups and downs in between.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      In short, my favourite subject was History/Geography. The way we studied those in France was as one subject. Maps really stunned me I remember. I was fascinated by the layout of cities, the visuals that showcased their constant development and changes. I would go through those plans and feel an obsessive need to know more about them, trace my hands across the different areas and automatically start visualizing how the little, intricate details in those cities of the past actually looked like. I had a tendency for the obsessive! So, I remember very vividly how much I loved that class and the stories I would make up about the maps and plans we were given.

      What was your first job?
      I was a teenager when I decided to get a job! I started tutoring other students when I was 15. I always liked explaining concepts and seeing how people understood ideas in their own ways. So, I continued tutoring different kids my age and younger to make some side money. Tutoring always made me happy because it’s a two-way interaction and because it involves two of my favourite elements: people and concepts! Following that, my first official job was a brief stint teaching Architecture in Saudi which didn’t last very long as I kicked off Concept Me around the same time. I don’t think I would make a very good employee, between you and I.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I moved to the Middle East (to Jeddah particularly) in 2008, a month after graduating. A couple of years after living there, I believe I wanted to be living somewhere with more flexibility, more openness and somewhere that would ease my way of doing business. I spent some time going back and forth to Dubai, it being the hub that it became during that phase and I found it quite easy to do business, set up the company and most importantly to source and recruit amazing talents. So, yeah, it was about remaining in the Middle East but in a place that I felt more at ease with.
      What inspired you to enter the architecture/interior space?
      I am not sure there was a specific inspiration for me to go into the field. For as far back as I remember, I was busy sketching houses as a child. I learned to draw before I could speak fluently! Even at home as a child, I had opinions on how we should lay out our furniture, how the elements in our space should be, and how decorative items should line up. Most importantly, I was always sensitive to the spaces around me, which unconsciously is why I was always drawn to the field. More so, I have always loved the human scale of architecture. I am not invested in creating landmark skyscrapers, but rather spaces for real people that can leave an impact on them. My love of maps, cities and the way urban grids dictated peoples’ livelihoods is also a contributing factor. As a child, my parents took me travelling frequently which fostered my obsession with cities like New York, Paris, Milan, etc.. The Middle Eastern heritage in me also goes to see the beauty of cities like Tehran, Beirut, Istanbul… So, I guess that’s what curated my directed love for this field.
      Talk us through the inspiration of what Concept Me does.
      As a boutique scale firm, my vision for Concept Me was to handle projects in a very holistic manner that takes the project from A to Z. Whatever we do is always focused on creating a unique personality for any space. Creativity is at the core of what we do, being able to bring life and soul to high-end residential projects. However, we also have a mission to be ‘client-centric’. My aim is to have clients that trust us blindly, tell us what they want and then get peace of mind until we hand over the project they had seen in their mind’s eye. We’ve made this possible at Concept Me with our multi-disciplinary team, their international talent and our empathetic intellect.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      Essentially, I think I am juggling a bit too many roles at the moment, which is maybe natural in a boutique-scale company environment. However, I am working on this, gradually! Primarily, however, one of the key elements of my role is client management. I take it upon myself to understand my client’s mindstate, to reassure them, to direct their vision and to inform them of the rationale behind our design choices and how we can bring their space to life in the best way possible. The second key element is to be the final decision-maker on all design choices. As part of a multi-disciplinary team, one that is driven by creative input, it can become challenging to keep all the creative choices from different people consistent, so that’s where I come in so we can have a final, polished, cohesive space instead of a pastiche. And finally, one of the hats I wear is the business development hat, whereby I keep signing deals while heading the design department! As I said, I am juggling a couple of roles…
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      This is a great topic haha! My calendar is usually locked from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. I aim to get a workout in as soon as I get up, which is contrary to my nature since I am not a great morning person! Luckily, I live close to the office and I am trying to maximize my steps count, so I manage to walk to the office where I sift through my emails. I then get to the essential part of catching up with the team, organizing what each one’s day looks like. And then it’s a non-stop rollercoaster of meetings between operations, logistics and design meetings. Of course, there are days when I am on site, days when I am at showrooms, galleries and supplier warehouses! In between those, I try to always make time for meetings with my marketing team and my financial team. It sounds much more organized on paper, but it doesn’t feel that organized when I am cramming my healthy lunch in between Zoom calls at the office! I eventually get home, feed my furry babies, get through some more emails, take a good walk, do my stretches and get to my pillow before I get back up, drink my hot water and lemon and do it all over again gladly!

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      The first piece of advice I would have for someone in the field is, ‘Find balance.’ I am someone who sacrificed her 20s for work. I took on quite a big load of stress early on in life. This took away from my health at some point. So, my advice is to prioritize your health, prioritize your personal life at some points, prioritize your best friends’ birthdays or weddings, etc. Keep in mind that sacrifice will come at every step. So, you might miss your trip with the people you love, you might not be there for family reunions and more. So, please, hustle all you can for the business, but find some balance so you don’t look back in retrospect and wish you had done it differently.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      I will keep this short so it resonates with whoever is reading it, ‘The universe has a lag time, so always be patient to see the result of what you’re planting.’ Now, repeat that to yourself.
      And what is the worst?
      ‘You cannot get this done, just give it up.’ Being the stubborn person that I am, I found strength in challenging all the people (and they were many) that told me to give up what I was doing.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      This answer is split two ways. The first massive challenge I had to get over professionally came when I was 30. Due to a couple of bad decisions and partnerships, I was left with a business that was bankrupt with 25 people dependent on me. I was abandoned by my business partners with a negative company balance. This was a real defining moment because I had to rebuild the business and grow it better than it was before. The burnout in the aftermath really hit me, but you know, we made it! The second part presents itself as going through a really powerful personal problem and having to live with it, get over it and heal from it whilst handling the complex and overwhelming operations that I run at Concept Me. Thankfully, I was able to get through these difficult situations through patience, self-reflection and a fantastic team.
      What are the future plans for your brand?
      In summary, the future is to work with clients that are connoisseurs of the craft! I want to work with people who inspire me, who understand the powerful value of high-end design, to penetrate a market that appreciates what we do and push the limits of how spaces can really impact the ways we live. The plan is already underway, we have expanded our repertoire into the kind of markets we want to work on and we are taking the company international with aims to find the quality clients that will allow us to leave our design imprint globally! The future looks bright, thankfully.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      8 editor-approved podcasts for the ultimate audio fix this season

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
      For some much-needed escapism, podcasts are an ideal way to unwind.
      With an ocean of stories, interviews, in-depth discussions and trusted voices, they’ve become an interesting source of information that caters to a wide variety of audiences.
      From honest fashion reviews to female empowerment discussions, the topics are endless and can get you addicted in no time.
      To listen, you simply access the podcast through any of the streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and other smaller platforms, making it a click away.
      So whether a morning commute or a long-haul flight, you’re sure to be entertained with vital information through any of these information-fuelled podcasts.
      With the proliferation of podcasts, finding one to effortlessly incorporate into your daily routine can be quite the task and hence, Emirates Woman is here to help.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marshallheadphones More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      When does Ramadan fall in 2023 in the UAE?

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      As one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is an important time for all those living in the UAE.
      Regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the Holy Month of Ramadan is a period for reflection and prayer, by way of fasting from sunrise to sunset.
      Dependent on the siting of the moon, Ramadan can last from 29 to 30 days and given that the Islamic calendar does not correspond directly with the Gregorian calendar, the exact dates of Ramadan vary year on year.
      When is Ramadan in 2023?
      So, when exactly is Ramadan set to fall in 2023?
      It’s expected that the first day of Ramadan will be on March 23, 2023, and the last day is estimated to be April 21, 2023.
      After Ramadan ends, Eid Al Fitr – a major celebration in the Islamic calendar – is set to take place
      In November 2022, it was announced by the UAE cabinet that Eid Al Fitr will be from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3. Per the Gregorian calendar, this will likely be from April 20 to April 23, 2023, with dates subject to the moon sighting and confirmation by the UAE government.
      However, it’s always good to know estimates in the name of planning ahead!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Why Madrid is a royal cityscape that awaits your visit this winter

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      3 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: As a city rich in history with royal ties, Madrid is the beating heart of Europe and is the perfect cityscape this season.

      Whoever said Spain was only an escape during summer? Madrid, the country’s capital, makes for the perfect cityscape this winter season. Exuding a vibrant culture, rich heritage, a history rooted in royalty, varied gastronomical offerings and a plethora of luxury hotels, this premium city is the ideal destination for a break during the upcoming season.
      A Royal Heritage
      Similar to many other European countries, Spain still upholds a constitutional monarchy, with the royal family taking residence in the capital city. The Spanish monarchy – now headed up by King Felipe VI and his wife Queen Letizia – dates back to the eighth century. To get a true sense of the city’s royal heritage a visit to the Royal Palace of Ma- dried – also known as the ‘Palacio Real de Madrid’ – is a must-visit. Previously home to monarchs Charles III, Alfonso XIII and more, the Spanish royal family no longer lives there, but it does remain their official residence. While at the Royal Palace of Madrid, take a stroll in the Sabatini Gardens, which features an exhibition of sculptures, located in front of the north façade of the grounds. The palace also houses the Royal Kitchen which reopened five years ago in 2017 after undergoing a huge renovation, but the Real Cocina remains the oldest well-preserved kitchen of a European royal residence.
      Continuing the royal tour of Madrid, historical buildings to add to the must-visit list should include: Liria Palace, the official residence of the House of Alba, a well-known Spanish aristocratic family; the Prado Museum which opened in 1819 and was used by King Ferdinand VII to store the royal paintings; and the Royal Botanic Gardens located in the centre of Madrid with more than 5,000 species of plants to see.
      As well as these royal heritage spots, the Royal Tapestry Factory is a particularly special venue to visit. First founded in 1720, the neomudéjar building produces the tapestries, carpets and coats of arms for the royal family which can be seen throughout many of the palaces including: Palacio Real, Palacio del Pardo, Palacio de la Granja de San Ildefonso, Palacio de Aranjuez, Palacio de Riofrío, Reales Alcázares, Palacio de Pedralbes, and numerous other national and international institutions.
      The Shopping

      No visit to Madrid is complete without a shopping experience fit for royalty. While there is Galería Canalejas an avant-garde shopping area is set across 15,000 metres, tourists should also take the opportunity to visit the areas which tell a story. For example, Sanz Joyeros is a century-old jewellery business – now run by Carrera y Carrera – known as the supplier for the Spanish royals. Then there is CapasSeseña, founded by tailor Santos Seseña Rojas in 1901, creating traditional Span- ish capes following traditional cutting and hand-stitching methods. To this day, Capas Seseña is commissioned by the royals for tailor-made pieces. The current monarch, King Felipe VI, has had a Seseña cape since he was 21 years old.
      The Gastronomy

      The Spanish capital is home to a plethora of homegrown restaurants and eateries, many of which have witnessed historical moments take place over the years. In particular, Lhardy Restaurante has over 180 years of history in Madrid and is famed for witnessing the meetings of politicians, nobilities and intellectuals resulting in the overthrowing of monarchies and the creation of republics. Meanwhile, for a more casual dining setting, there’s the San Miguel Market. It first opened in 1916 as a local food market, but is now Madrid’s foremost gourmet market and today houses the cuisine from globally renowned chefs.
      For those with a sweet tooth, there’s Casa Mira, opened by Luis Mira in 1842 with a simple stall. The confectioner soon became a supplier to the royal household during the reign of Isabel II, Amadeo de Saboya, Al- fonso XII, the Regency of María Cristina and Alfonso XIII. To this day, Casa Mira is run by the Mira family and is now located in the area of Carrera de San Jerónimo.
      The Stay

      No stay in Madrid is complete without a hotel fit for royalty and several of Madrid’s hotels are housed within buildings that were once noble properties including: AC Pala- cio del Retiro, Catalonia Las Cortes, Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques and more.
      For more information visit esmadrid.com/en

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

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Want to plan for NYE? Here’s 20 spectacular places to book in Dubai

      by

      Looking to ring in 2023 in style? We’ve got you sorted.
      From Dubai’s breathtaking skyline views to an array of delectable dishes, this emirate is never short of venues to celebrate the occasion.
      With New Year’s Eve around the corner, it’s best to make your plans in advance and we’re here to narrow down all the potential venues to book ASAP.
      So, whether an intimate dinner with your loved ones or an all-out sophisticated fiesta, there is a myriad of options to ensure you make this moment a memorable one.
      However you wish to celebrate, we’re here to help you with a selection of sought-after venues that are preparing to ensure no stone is left unturned.
      PLAYA

      This iconic Peruvian venue will ensure a one-of-a-kind celebration by the beach. With exquisite signature cocktails and beautiful fireworks, guests can experience vibrant beats from DJ Miriam, Jenny & Dany Srouji with the famous mentalist Danny Blue who will conduct bedazzling mind games. The highlight of the evening will be an extravagant after-party from 2am until the early hours of the morning at Al Ittihad Park Monorail Station. This beach club will offer three packages with a minimum spend of Dhs1,200 at the restaurant, Dhs1,600 at the beach club and Dhs2,000 front row to witness Dubai’s Fireworks.
      For more information visit playadxb.com
      Sucre

      Take a trip to Argentina with Sucre’s charming interiors and delicious menu. Usher the new year with a black-tie gala as you enjoy festive meals including traditional favorites complete with all the trimmings for the perfect Night at Buenos Aires at Sucre. The fiesta will begin with a delicious dinner created by masterful Chef Fernando Trocca which comes as a bountiful spread of shared plates to be passed around the festive table amongst groups of friends and families with a minimum spend of Dhs800 per person from 7pm onwards. The evening will feature live entertainment and live performances with a Latin 6-piece band and resident DJ in the heart of DIFC.
      For more information visit surcredubai.com
      NYX at Gaia

      Gaia will host a magnificent NYX Gala, a glamorous red-carpet event to ring in the new year. NYX will take over Gaia’s radiant interiors, the entire venue will be transformed to reveal the dark red glamour and enigmatic ambience of the sophisticated speakeasy hidden downstairs. With a minimum spend of Dhs1,500, guests can dine from 8 pm onwards with a chic and sophisticated dress code. This inviting venue is located in Gate Village 4, in DIFC.
      For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
      Piatti By The Beach

      Featuring an exquisite dining experience under the stars, accompanied by an exhilarating live DJ performance and glittering fireworks, guests are invited to join the memorable festivities and welcome the new year in style. The restaurant serves an indulgent selection Gnocchi with Lobster and King Crab Ragout, Beef Tenderloin and more. The indoor seating is priced at Dhs2,200 per person and outdoor is priced at Dhs2,700 inclusive of food, water, soft drinks and mocktails from 8pm to 3am at Raffles, The Palm.
      For more information visit rafflesthepalmdubai.com
      Kyma Beach

      To make it a night to remember, guests can experience the luxurious beachside experience at this newly opening venue situated in the heart of Palm West Beach. For a special night, guests can enjoy live entertainment with singers, musicians and DJ playing the grooviest hits. The dishes range from king crab salad to 24 karat chocolate millfeuille which are all crafted to perfection. The packages start at Dhs2,500 per person from 8pm onwards, inclusive of a sharing set menu and selected beverages.
      For more information visit kymabeach.ae
      Scalini

      This Italian haven invites guests to welcome 2023 with a celebration of one of the quitenseential ingredients in Italian cusine, the pomodoro. The restaurant pays humble homage to this precious ingredient by inviting diners to indulge in an exquisite menu inspired by traditional Neapolitan recipes. With no minimum spend guests can indulge in a feast with a variety of dishes at the Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah.
      For more information visit scalini-dubai.com
      Koko Bay

      Celebrate by the beach with scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this bohemian restaurant promises you a good time. The packages start from Dhs1,495 for soft beverages, Dhs1,995 for premium beverages and bubbly and Dhs495 for kids below nine years. Guests can also book a private cabana for Dhs10,000 for four guests.
      For more information visit kokobay.com
      Katsuya

      Experience a night of great Japanese cuisine, fire dancers, live music and mesmerizing views of the Burj Khalifa’s famous fireworks display at HYDE Hotel in Business bay. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable evening with friends and family in 2023 at this fine-dining venue starting at Dhs950 for indoor searing and Dhs1,450 for outdoor seating inclusive of house beverages from 8am to 12am.
      For more information visit sbe.com
      ONZE

      Kick-off the new year in an iconic setting at ONZE, the newly opened Nikkei restaurant, situated at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. Blending the cultures and cuisines of Japan and Peru, ONZE will hit the high notes for the start of 2023. Indulge in ONZE’s menu filled with delectable starters, mains and desserts including freshly prepared dishes from the restaurant’s crudo bar. The packages start at Dhs1,500 for a minimum spend per person with special packages available for champagnes and spirits from 8pm to 3am.
      For more information visit onzerestaurant.com
      Shanghai Me

      Shanghai Me will be hosting an auspicious golden celebration. With stunning décor, the sophisticated restaurant will be transformed into a golden paradise for guests to revel. 8pm onwards, diners can enjoy a specially curated six-course menu of East-Asian delicacies blended with the restaurant’s traditions. To further fuel excitement, fun & laughter and promising a vivacious end to the year, dazzling guests are invited to dance the night away at Bund. Hidden behind the mirrored panellings at Shanghai Me, this under-the-radar speakeasy oozes old-world glamour, with its luxe interiors and sleek bar. The minimum spend will be notified upon booking and the festivities will take place from 8pm to 3am at Podium Level, Gate Village 11, DIFC.
      For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
      SUSHISAMBA

      Get ready for the party of the year. For one night only, SUSHISAMBA will turn white with extravagant décor for the memorable occasion, as the city prepares to welcome 2023 in style with a Sambazonia-themed party. Guests are encouraged to dress in all white and can expect to embark on a multi-dimensional journey, right in the centre of Dubai whilst overlooking 360-degree views of the city’s iconic fireworks with a minimum spend of Dhs3,000 per person from 9pm until late,
      For more information visit sushisamba.com
      DREAM

      For a theatrical evening to bring in the new year, the enchanting dinner and show venue, DREAM Dubai is set to transport guests to a fairy tale world. The line-up will feature mesmerising new festive-themed shows to sweep you off your feet. The dynamic dancers will dazzle viewers with energetic dance sequences in tune with the festive soundtrack and musical performances. The glittery headpieces and glam costumes add to the intrigue of the special NYE show-stopping performances and a party from 8pm until late with a minimum spend starting at Dhs4,000 per person.
      For more information visit dreamdxb.com
      Ergo

      Book a night at Ergo for the aptly themed Pretense New Year’s Eve party, where everything is not quite as it seems. Entertainment for the night will feature mysterious elements reminiscent of Venetian masquerades, shadow dancers, grand decor, and secret rendezvouses, all along with a disruptive playlist. Guests can enjoy a night of free-flowing Ergo cocktails, bubbly, and premium house beverages, along with select bites from the borderless Mediterranean menu. The energetic vibe of the bar area spills out into the urban terrace space with views of the bustling Downtown District to end the night. With a minimum spend of Dhs1,500 per person from the NYE à la carte menu, guests can spend the evening from 7pm until late.
      For more information visit ergodubai.com
      LPM

      To ring in the new year this Parisian haven is hosting a New Year’s Eve special with an evening inspired by La Folie Douce, the well-known after-ski parties in the French Alps. Guests will be able to enjoy the à la carte menu with a minimum spend of Dhs1,200 excluding drinks. The evening will begin from 6pm and will stay open until late for everyone to celebrate. The restaurant is located at Gate Village 8, DIFC.
      For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
      Fi’lia

      To match the splendid views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks, Fi’lia welcomes in the New Year with its stunning setting and free-flowing beverages to toast to 2023. World-class culinary delights created as an ode to hearty Italian dishes await on the special New Year’s menu. From lemon risotto to steak tartare guests can indulge in a splendour of flavours throughout the evening through a four-course family style set menu from 7pm to 9pm with the price at Dhs599 per person for indoors and Dhs750 per person for outdoors without beverages and from 9:30pm until late for Dhs1,800 for indoors, Dhs1,999 for window, Dhs2,500 for outdoor and Dhs2,700 for outdoor window with three hours of free-flowing beverages. The evening is filled with exciting entertainment activities. A renowned and breathtaking ensemble of masquerade dancers and a live jazz band will serenade the guests with exciting performances at SLS hotel and residences.
      For more information visit sbe.com
      Alaya

      Make your New Year’s Eve a joyous one at DIFC’s latest Middle Eastern hotspot. For a glamorous affiar, guests can indulge in an exquisite selection of Mediterranean classics and an abundance of fragrant herbs and spices that The East and West bring together, Alaya’s exceptional menu translates the influences of the rich culinary landscape with a contemporary approach. Alongside delectable dishes, guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and celebratory bubbles. At the stroke of midnight, the festivities continue at the glamorous, Bedouin-inspired speakeasy, LY-LA. Tucked away behind a concealed door beneath the restaurant Minimum spend is mentioned on booking and the celebrations take place from 7pm to 3pm in Gate Village, Building 4, DIFC.
      For more information visit alaya-dubai.com
      Chic Nonna

      This sophisticated fine-dining restaurant will offer a tailor-made a la carte menu at the restaurant Salotto and the terrace. A Studio 54-inspired evening, ‘Le Freak C’est Chic” will dress the lounge up in disco and sparkles. Guests are expected to deck themselves out as their most glamorous selves to celebrate the new year in style. Groovy vibes will be articulated through the lavish décor that will be employed, transforming Salotto into a classy, speakeasy-style hotspot and transporting guests into the glam era of discothèque. Toast to new beginnings with delectable dining and exceptional entertainment at this osteria. Family-friendly dinner reservations are available at Chic Nonna’s main dining area and require an advanced payment of the minimum spend with prices starting at Dhs1,200
      For more information visit chicnonna.com
      The Nice Guy

      Guests can spend their evening at the newly opened patio and terrace, the main dining area, or an intimate lounge, all of which pay homage to the decadent era of Mafia bars and restaurants. The terrace packages start at Dhs2,000 basic for aparkling and DHs3,000 Premium for bubbles from 8pm to midnight and 12pm to 3am for a la carte drinks with live entertainment. The main dining area packages start at Dhs2,000 basic for sparkling and Dhs3,000 premium for bubbles from 11:30 p.m. onwards. A minimum spend is required per table for drinks only per table from 11pm until closing with walk-ins at Dhs500 at the entrance, and then a la carte drinks at the main dining area.
      For more information visit hwoodgroup.com
      Cove Beach

      For an exclusive gala dinner amid the beach, this enticing venue is sure to make the evening special. There’s a choice of two different experiences to bid adieu to 2022 at Cove Beach. Guests can either indulge in an exquisite gala dinner boasting an extravagant selection of culinary delicacies such as Wagyu Ribeye and Grilled Lobster while enjoying live music from a star-studded five-piece band priced at Dhs1,200 per person or party the night away at the buzzing beach club NYE party, in collaboration with LUV Events, showcasing a brilliant line-up of DJ’s including DJ Scottie-B, DJ Devon Kosoko, DJ Mitchel and DJ Sir Taz priced at Dhs699 per persona at Caesars Palace Hotel.
      For more information visit caesars.com
      Basko

      Time to celebrate and bring in the New Year at Basko with live music andretro disco DJ thereafter. 360 paparazzi waiting, guests can expect a glamorous entrance into the New Year at the one and only Basko Dubai and stunning views of Burj Khalifa fireworks. The first seating packages don’t require any minimum spend and take place from 7pm to 9pm The packages for outdoors are priced at Dhs1,200 per person and indoor is Dhs990 per person from 9pm to 4am for the second seating and it is located in Business Bay. For the after-party celebrations, guests can head to the hidden speakeasy, Suave.
      For more information visit baskorestaurant.com
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Emirates Woman December 2020 cover shoot More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      The best desert cafés in the UAE to visit this winter

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 day ago

      At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE.
      Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
      With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts.
      To keep you in the know here’s some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter.
      NOT a SPACE

      This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together in the company of Sharjah’s Al Faya desert. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
      For more information visit notaspace.ae
      One Degree Cafe

      With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
      For more information visit onedegree.ae. 
      Link by Mara

      With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
      My Space

      Brand new to the desert concept scene, My Space Cafe delivers an exceptional experience in Nazwa, Sharjah. The concept plays host to a simple yet delectable menu comprising of burgers and pasta dishes, as well as coffee and soft drinks and sweet treats. Located in the Sharjhah desert, My Space Cafe is open daily from 3pm to 1am.
      BBQ Station

      Located in the Sharjah desert in the area of Al Rahmaniya, the newest desert concept to enter the scene is BBQ Station. Complete with tipi-style seating areas and a diverse menu, it’s the perfect winter spot to watch the sunset and nightfall over the desert.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      12 luxe festive gifts for the man in your life

      by

      Emirates Man

      by Dan Robinson
      2 hours ago

      With just a few days left for festive shopping, you might be thinking about what to gift the man in your life, be it the family, friend or partner.
      Emirates Man has done the legwork for you selecting the ultimate luxe gifts that will compliment the stylish man in your life and last a lifetime.

      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
      Images: Supplied More