lifestyle and culture

Subterms

    More stories

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to return to London

      by

      Last week, reports emerged that Prince Harry is set to return to London.
      According to The Sun, a source has claimed that royal staff at Windsor Castle, near where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s UK home Frogmore Cottage is located, were “told to prepare for the possibility Harry could come back”.

      “They are told that it could be within weeks but Meghan’s name was not mentioned,” the source added.
      However, it’s always been in the couple’s plans to return to London, albeit not full-time.

      Upon their announcement they were stepping down from public royal life, Prince Harry and Meghan, along with their son Archie, have remained in North Canada – firstly Canada before they relocated to California.

      But it was always in their plans to split their time between North America and the UK.
      “We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America,” the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in their statement back in January. “This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter.”
      However, this plan to “balance their time” between both countries was very likely put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
      According to Vogue.com, this is exactly the case. An apparent source told the publication that the family would “have already been back in the UK For events like Beatrice’s wedding and Trooping of the Colour” if it had not been for travel restrictions imposed due to the pandemic.
      Vanity Fair also recently reported the couple will be set to return to the UK as they are set to face The Mail on Sunday in court amidst Meghan’s legal battle against them – this is set to begin on January 11, 2021.
      At this point, it’s not a case if the Sussexes will return to the UK, but when and for how long.
       – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Getty/Sussex Royal Instagram More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      If Your Bedroom Is Your Desk, Here’s What to Do…

      by

      If I had a dollar for the number of times I’ve heard the warning, “You shouldn’t work from home in your bed,” I’d have enough money to move out of my cramped studio apartment and look for a more spacious option that would allow me the luxury of the desk/office space I’m missing. I can see where critics are coming from: a bed is a place for sleeping and, in an ideal world, having an out-of-bed workspace can have a positive impact on productivity, sleep, and our mental health. As much as I’m sure we’d all love to have a designated workspace that isn’t our bedroom, sometimes there’s just no getting around it. Whether it be having a small space to work with, attempting to work where kiddos are running around, hiding from a pet who has an affinity for your laptop keys (my cat is the queen of this), or sharing a WFH space with a partner who needs the living room for a conference call, sometimes working in bed might be your only option.
      So, let’s normalize working from home in bed! If working in your sleep space works for you, that’s 100 percent OK and totally doable. Here’s how to make the most of it.

      Separate sleep time from work time
      As tempting as it is to snooze your alarm until 8:28am to make your 8:30am start time, stay snuggled in your blanket burrito, and keep your pajamas on all day, don’t fall into the trap! In the interest of separating sleep time from work time, get up early and partake in a morning routine to get you out of bed and to signal to your brain that it’s time to wake up and seize the day. When you return to your room, transform it into a workspace. Open your blinds to let the light in, make your bed, set up your laptop, change into a designated work-from-home outfit, set your favorite productivity playlist, and get going. 

      Invest in a back pillow to improve posture
      While sitting up in bed is a good alternative to lying flat (which may put one on the fast track to a fatal, accidental nap), it offers little to no back support. These back pillows will help your alignment, assist in improving your posture, and are an absolute must for working from your bed.

      Get a laptop tray
      No desk? No problem. If you don’t already have one, laptop trays are such a game-changer for working in bed. Having a flat surface to rest your laptop, notebook, planner, and coffee is so necessary and serves the function of a desk without the bulkiness.

      Buy non-spill drinkware
      If you’re like me, no workday is complete without multiple cups of coffee, hundreds of milliliters of lemon water, and several glasses of matcha tea. I used to have a very horrible habit of placing my beverages on the corner of my laptop next to the keypad—I know it’s bad, please don’t yell at me! Now I am older, I am wiser, and I bought spill-proof cups with lids that have offered the perfect solution. The idea of past me alone gives me a mini heart-attack and sends shivers down my spine. 

      Add to your extension cord collection
      Unless your bedroom is stacked with outlets, you’re going to need to invest in additional extension cords and outlets to fuel your electronic lifelines. Most bedrooms weren’t designed to be offices and don’t have many/close enough outlets to allow us to have all of our devices charging in cord length distance of our beds. Alas, we shall adapt.

      Schedule breaks to get up and moving
      As with sitting at a desk all day, sitting in your makeshift desk-in-bed situation for prolonged periods can have a detrimental effect on our health. Dr. Jasmine Marcus, PT, DPT, CSCS told Popsugar that getting up and moving “anywhere from every half hour to every two hours” can be beneficial in combatting an otherwise sedentary workday. Schedule deliberate stretch and walk breaks throughout your day to relieve pressure on your spine.and to keep blood and endorphins flowing.

      Having a set nighttime routine
      When your workday ends, clean up your workspace, say “goodbye” to your bedroom for a few hours, and treat yourself to a change of scenery to dissociate from your workday. Just as with a morning routine, perform a night routine of choice to help you wind down and to signal to your mind and body that it’s time for bed. Set the mood for bedtime, dim the lights, get in your coziest PJs, light a calming candle, and do a relaxing activity such as journaling or reading. Try your best not to scroll on IG or TikTok—your eyes and mind deserve a break! More

    • 175 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Sheikh Hamdan’s quest to make the UAE the ‘most active country in the world’

      by

      As the annual Dubai Fitness Challenge is just around the corner, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is on an ambitious quest.

      Ahead of the 2020 challenge beginning at the end of next week, the Crown Prince of Dubai made a statement as he called on community members, government entities, businesses and schools to take part, he announced he wants to make the UAE “the most active country in the world”.
      “The return of Dubai Fitness Challenge is a testament to the emirate’s resilience and its commitment to rebuild a stronger and happier society by embracing the benefits of fitness and wellness habits,” he said in a statement, per state news agency WAM. “When we create the right habits and make them a part of our lives, we have the opportunity to truly transform ourselves.”

      This year marks the fourth edition of the DFC, which will run from October 30 to November 28, and aims to encourage those who live in Dubai, and beyond, to pursue an active lifestyle.
      “Dubai is a city that recognises the importance of physical, mental and social well-being, and constantly strives to provide everyone opportunities for an active lifestyle,” Sheikh Hamdan continued. “All it takes for you to succeed is an unyielding pledge to enjoy 30 minutes of activity for 30 days.
      “I challenge each and every one of you to embrace your fitness journey and make a difference in your life. Together, let’s make the UAE the most active country in the world.”
       – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Your new destination for the best staycation deals in the UAE

      by

      With the surge in international travel and Dubai weather being as glorious as it is, it’s time to take advantage of some amazing offers for a short staycation or a longer getaway.
      To help you do that is Retreatmi.com, the world’s first custom-made retreat builder. It brings together unique locations, first-class instructors and a variety wellness options – from indulgent spa and beauty treatments to culinary experiences – so you can search, curate, select your dream holiday.

      Whilst the Retreatmi.com site includes options all over the globe, the site provides a wealth of UAE-based staycations. There are numerous options for every budget and requirement, including family and pet-friendly options.
      Think goal-driven trips that push urbanites of their comfort zones, back to nature desert retreats that nourish the soul and solo micro-breaks which transform and engage through physical exploration.

      Founded by Stacey Elizabeth Sharp – a qualified STOTT Pilates teacher and Nutritionist – this comprehensive virtual hub keeps you connected and up to date with the latest travel news, information and expert advice from the leaders in health, wellness and tourism across the globe.

      Here are a few options currently available on RetreatMi.com
      ICE THERAPY Workshop at Wim Hof Method – 24 October for Dhs380 per person
      Discover the benefits of cold exposure, breathing techniques and the power of the mind to conquer the cold and overcome fear. Book here.
      Weekend in Hajjar – 23 to the 24 October for Dhs660 per person
      Just an hour’s drive from Dubai, you will head deep inside the Hajjar Range of Musandam and make your base in a secluded farm at an altitude of 950 meters, where the temperature drops. There you will hike the wadi and indulge in the fresh morning breeze, sleep outdoors at high altitude and sit by a campfire. Book here.
      Rayya Wellness Retreats at The Retreat, Palm Jumeirah – three, five and seven-night options with packages starting from Dhs5,380 per person
      The Rayya Wellness Centre provides 360-degree wellness solutions designed to help you achieve a personal transformation of body, mind and soul, through a variety of treatments and retreat packages. Book three nights here.
       – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 100 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      A staple in-flight aspect is returning to Emirates

      by

      Earlier this year, the travel industry was hit hard at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Countries closed their borders, flights were grounded and air travel ceased to exist as we knew it for a while.
      However, over the past few months, Emirates has slowly but surely been recommencing flights to key desintations and is now currently flying to over 90 cities globally.

      Throughout the pandemic, a number of key flight aspects have been put on hold, including in-flight meals and complimentary beverages. These restrictions were put in place in order to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 during travel.
      However, in another step in returning to normality, Emirates has announced it’s resuming food and beverage services on all of their flights from the beginning of next month.
      READ: A complete list of the destinations Emirates is currently flying to

      From November 1, complimentary beverages will now be available on all flights, as well as hot and cold meals.
      In a statement issued by Emirates, the airline stated its “onboard dining experience will return to its signature service while observing strict hygiene protocols”.
      “Customers in all classes will enjoy multi-course meals and choose from a complimentary selection of beverages including wine and beer, as well as juices and soft drinks,” the statement added. “Cocktails will also be served in premium classes.
      “In Economy Class, customers can choose from two wines; in Business Class, customers can choose from six wines including port and champagne, while in First Class, customers will have a selection of 11 wines including a dessert wine, port and Dom Perignon champagne.”
      Emirates Airline has ensured it’s taking every precaution necessary in order to protect its staff and employees. This includes covering any COVID-19 medical costs any Emirates passengers may incur during their travels.
       – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Image: Sara Shakeel Instagram More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      The female Emirati footballer breaking boundaries and world records

      by

      October’s – ‘The Bravery Issue’ – Download Now
      Making history as a Guinness World Record Holder for the most football ‘hotstepping’ in one minute, Emirati footballer Areej Al Hamadi discusses her brave steps towards normalizing women playing football in the region.
      What led you to football?
      I think sport is a safe place for people to be themselves, dream, and create without judgment. I was shy growing up, and I believe football helped me grow into who I am today, I owe a lot to it. My passion for football grew the more I learned and watched other teams play, in turn, it inspired me to continue pursuing it and to train myself to be the best I can be.
      What inspired you to break the world record?

      I have always loved the concept of the Guinness World Records. I grew up reading their books and watching records broken on television. The inspiration to try and break a record came during the pandemic, as there was a rise in social media challenges circulating around record-breaking. I also wanted to put UAE women’s football on the map.
      What motivates you to keep training?
      I think it is essential that you are patient when you’re training towards any goals in life. You don’t grow when things are easy, you grow when you face challenges, and the greater the challenges, the greater the rewards will be when you overcome them. I’ve always reminded myself of that.
      This year has been challenging for all. How do you overcome challenges?

      It emphasized my view on approaching challenges. It helps if you have patience and resilience in times like these. With all sporting events and facilities being closed down for health and safety purposes, you need to create your opportunities and approach to these challenges. Many of us have adapted to working on our fitness at home and improving our skills. Successful and talented Middle Eastern women have been supported in the UAE through various opportunities to develop them and acknowledge their multiple contributions.
      What’s next for you?
      I will continue to play football and I hope to win some competitions with my national team. I would like to further support women’s participation in sport and educate others on the health and mental benefits of participating in group sports and improving women’s football in the UAE.

      This is The Bravery Issue – what is bravery to you?
      Bravery is pursuing your dreams and passion. It is the courage to face all the challenges and pushback on your journey to success because success doesn’t come easy, and you will need to be brave to overcome those challenges. Bravery is taking risks and believing in your aspirations regardless of what everyone else says.
      What would be the bravest step you took to follow your passion?
      When I was growing up, women’s football was unheard of. To even dream of being part of something that didn’t exist at the time and keep pursuing it is brave because it meant taking a risk and some criticism along the way. But I think the bravest step I took was pursuing my dream and playing for the National Team.
      Even though it was my dream, it meant I would have to sacrifice a lot of things like my time with friends, family, and other hobbies and aspirations. It meant I had to adjust my lifestyle to fit all the training sessions and commitments I needed to make for the National Team. It also meant that I would be receiving some criticism from people, but when it’s your passion, you make that choice in a heartbeat, and I was lucky to have a supportive and understanding husband to help me achieve my goals.
      October’s – ‘The Bravery Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      5 Changes to Make to Your Finances Before Winter

      by

      As the weather changes, naturally, so will your budget. The seasons can have an impact on your finances, whether it’s setting aside a little more money for brunch season with your friends in the summer or opening up a whole new savings account for holiday gift-giving in the winter. Preparing for the colder months is more than just about breaking out your old coats and sweaters; your finances also need prepping to plan for the change to your spending, especially if you are rebuilding financially from a tough year. Here are a few ways you can change up your budget to ring in the winter season wisely, without spending your last dollar. 

      1. Reevaluate your budget 
      The spending categories in your budget, which can include household bills, dining out, fixed expenses, and more, can—and most likely will—change and shift with the seasons. From your utilities increasing from being in the house more to preparing for holiday travel, make sure to reevaluate your budget to accommodate the change to your lifestyle this winter. 
      Whether you update your budget on a weekly, monthly, or a paycheck-by-paycheck basis, take time to make any modifications to your spending categories to be prepared for winter spending. Use your favorite budgeting software to update your spending in advance of the winter season. Your extra dollars may need to go toward your shopping budget for gift giving, or toward an increase in household items. Keep your budget flexible to accommodate your winter spending habits.

      2. Save in advance for the holidays 
      As soon as the weather breaks, the holidays are looming right around the corner, which means the season of gift-giving is near. Don’t let your wallet take a hit this winter while trying to gift shop for the holidays; prepare in advance and set aside savings specifically for the holidays. 
      Prepping for the holiday season can be daunting, especially if your budget isn’t prepared for it. Evaluate your finances to see how you can allocate more funds for gifts, holiday travel, decorations, and other celebratory plans. Make a plan to attack the holiday buying season by making a checklist of everyone you plan to shop for, how much you plan to allocate to their gift, and where in your budget your spending is coming from. Put yourself on a timeline for when your spending begins and ends for gift giving this winter, as it is easy to overspend on family and friends for the holidays. 
      Traveling for the holidays to spend time with friends and family can also make a dent in your finances. Budget for travel in advance by taking advantage of any travel deals available and saving up for any expenses associated with your travels, including gas, rentals, hotel stays, and airfare costs. 
      The holidays during the winter are very festive, and decorating your home to match the joy of the season can be costly. Look to use recycled decorations for the holidays instead of purchasing new items, or look for cheaper alternatives at your favorite stores to get your home holiday-ready.

      Source: colorjoy stock

      3. Change up your spending habits 
      Being in your home more during winter will most likely tempt you to order online more, versus dining out and going shopping in your favorite stores. Shift your budget to accommodate how your spending habits will change this winter season. 
      Your budget this winter might include more money allocated toward getting your basic household and beauty items delivered, versus going into the stores to save time and to protect your health ahead of the flu season. Dining out usually slows during the winter, especially now as we’re in the middle of a pandemic, so be prepared to make room in your budget for the change in your dining out habits. You may want to shift money around to accommodate spending more on groceries instead of going out when the temperature drops.
      Shopping and maintaining your winter attire will also require a few extra dollars in your budget. Prepare to spend a little more money on clothing items if you live in a colder climate. Winter clothing is usually a little more costly to buy while in season, so before the cold hits, shop around to prepare for what you might need, like coats, gloves, scarves, and boots. Anticipating what your spending habits may look like as winter approaches will help you shift your budget around proactively for a more realistic look at how winter might change your finances and your lifestyle.  

      4. Plan for an increase in household expenses 
      During the colder months, you’re in the home more than usual, which usually includes using more heat, electricity, and household appliances. Don’t let your utility bills shock you this coming winter season; prepare for an increase in household expenses before it’s time to hibernate during the colder months. 
      The colder the season, the more heat you and your family are likely to use to stay warm inside. Set aside more for household expenses and adjust your budget to make way for higher utility bills and any other expenses related to maintaining your home throughout the winter. Check in with your utility providers to see if they have cost-efficient ways you can save money on your utility bills in the winter, as many have peak savings days they recommend or tips on how you can use less energy throughout the season to lower your bill.
      You may want to make room in your budget for weather-related home maintenance as well, like snow removal or sealing your doors and windows to keep in the heat. Damages to many homes due to winter weather can break your savings, especially if you’re not properly prepared. Make sure you set aside more money in your home budget to make way for any unexpected home expenses the winter might inflict on your home.

      5. Prepare in advance for tax season 
      Time waits for no one, and neither does tax season! If you’re already sweating at the thought of filing taxes next year and feel unprepared, you are not alone. Get ready for tax season this winter by taking a closer look at your finances before the beginning of the new year. 
      Gather up all of your tax documents and receipts from the year so that you don’t miss a beat next year during tax season. This could include any itemizable expenses from working from home, unemployment benefits due to being laid off or furloughed, or relocation expenses that may be reimbursed. 
      Take this winter season to research and find a tax professional or trusted tax software you can use before the end of the year in order to plan your filings early. Get an early look at what your tax liabilities may look like next year, and get ahead of the game!  More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Saudi Arabia ranks number three on ‘happiest places to live’ report

      by

      Saudi Arabia has ranked number three in a global happiness survey measuring the level of happiness in countries.

      The report measured a total of 27 countries globally, which was conducted by market research company Ipsos, based in France.
      Above Saudi Arabia, China ranked number one and the Netherlands ranked number two.
      After the Kingdom, France ranked number four; Canada number five; Australia number six; Great Britain number seven; Sweden number eight; Germany number nine; and round off the top 10 was Belgium.
      The full ranking of the 27 countries that participated in the report can be seen below.
      China
      Netherlands
      Saudi Arabia
      France
      Canada
      Australia
      Great Britain
      Sweden
      Germany
      Belgium
      United States
      Poland
      India
      Brazil
      Malaysia
      Italy
      Turkey
      Russia
      Japan
      South Korea
      South Africa
      Mexico
      Hungary
      Argentina
      Spain
      Chile
      Peru

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