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    10 countries Sheikh Hamdan has travelled to

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    With travelling back on the radar again, there’s no better source of inspiration than His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
    From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure, giving his travel enthusiast fans an opportunity to take some ideas from.
    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 to the 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, taking part 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 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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    ‘Filter vs Reality’: The influencer changing the narrative of Instagram filters

    Beauty

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    Social media was once a space where the fourth wall was broken down and transparency and relatability were at the helm. However, over the years platforms have grown and developed as have the millions of daily users on them. What once was used as a space to connect with people all over the world has become a booming business and arguably a place of thwarted reality.
    Social media, particularly Instagram, is often used as a highlight reel, showcasing curated tidbits of people’s lives showing only the very best. Along with this, we have seen a boom in the use of filters on platforms.
    In various different ways, users are now able to warp their appearance – some in funny ways, others so realistic you’d be mistaken what people look like which, in turn, are creating unrealistic beauty standards. In a bid to bring back transparency to social media, UK entrepreneur Faye Kingston took a stand in 2020. Launching her own filter on Instagram, ‘Filter vs. Reality’. This filter, in short, aims to show people what you look like with or without a filter, with half the face airbrushed and porcelain and half the face normal.
    “The idea behind my split-screen filter, ‘Filter vs Reality’, was to create something unique to show people how these dramatic beauty filters rid selfies of skin textures, tones, scars, everything that makes you and how it’s affecting our mental health,” she tells Emirates Woman.
    A little over two years after launching, the filter has had nearly five billion impressions to date, with even celebrities like Jessie J and Jen Atkin jumping on the bandwagon. Below, Kingston tells us the inspiration behind launching the filter and how she’s bringing transparency back to the internet.

    You’re now a well-known content creator on Instagram. What has your relationship been like with editing photos and using filters over the years?
    I have been on a self-love journey for a long time and at this stage of my life I am in the best place I have everbeen, I have never been happier and it’s all down to self-love. I tend not to edit my body shape however I do edit my photos to brighten up the lighting and makeup etc. I have always been open about the edit as I got nothing to hide and like I said, ‘Social Media isn’t real life’.
    What inspired you to launch ‘Filter vs. Reality’?
    The idea behind my split-screen filter, ‘Filter vs Reality’, was to create something unique to show people how these dramatic beauty filters rid selfies of skin textures, tones, scars, everything that makes you and how it’s affecting our mental health. Don’t let these filters fool you; you’re unique, beautiful, strong, powerful, loved & worthy without any filter.
    It’s now had nearly five billion impressions. What has the feedback been from the campaign?
    I have been blown away by the positive response I had, and I never knew we all needed this reality check in our lives. So many people have reached out to me to say how my ‘Filter vs Reality’ filter has made a positive change of self-acceptance in people’s lives. It’s a reminder that social media is fake, and textured, pore-filled, and discoloured skin are all a natural occurrence.
    How has using filters/Instagram over the years affected your mental health?
    I was addicted to using filters until I realised social media is fake and what you see online simply isn’t real or achievable. The beauty filters can do more harm than good, altering self-image and pressuring young girls to try and be the way the filters make them look on the apps. And such pressure can cause depression or even eating disorders in some cases.

    In what way do you think it contributes to unattainable beauty standards?
    The problem with these filters is you see a side of yourself with dramatic filters that doesn’t exist, which corresponds to an unnatural and inhuman ideal of beauty that you can now achieve with filters. It’s the unhealthy obsession we all have with that perfect look. A 2017 study in the journal Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications found that people only recognised manipulated images 60 per cent to 65 per cent of the time. With the prevalence of filters and airbrushing on social media, it is terrifying to think of how it will be possible for young people to grow up with standard, realistic images of what is beautiful.
    What is your relationship like now with using filters on Instagram/social media?
    I have a love and hate relationship with filters as all the playful filters are fine, but the ones that can be damaging are those with dramatic changes to the face – which can cause mental health and self-esteem issues. It’s easy to feel insecure, seeing how so much of the content we consume daily is filtered and photoshopped, and everyone looks picture-perfect; it’s hard not to point out your flaws, but REAL Is always beautiful.
    How can we move forward in a world of social media to be transparent with the way we look/without filters?
    I think it’s time to “break that habit” of overthinking how we look in pictures because nobody is perfect, and everyone has “bad photos” we choose what and what not to share on social media to put out a good image of ourselves. We all should move towards the powerful place of self-acceptance.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    5 luxurious resorts to add to your bucket list

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    Set amongst clear sapphire seas, these blissful resorts will enable you to truly escape from it all.
    To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the sophisticated resorts for the perfect summer break.
    Naladhu Private Island Maldives – Maldives

    One of the most exclusive resorts you’ll find in the Maldives is Naladhu Private Island. With just 20 private villas, seclusion and relaxation are what embody a stay at this resort. While each individual accommodation has its own private pool, you’ll most likely find yourself exploring the blue azure waters which surround the private resort. Naladhu also takes the meaning of be- spoke to a whole new level with its no-menu dining concept, where a one-of-a-kind menu is created specifically to your preferences and needs.
    For more information visit naladhu.com
    Hermitage Bay Resort – Antigua

    Nestled in a quiet corner of the Caribbean island of Antigua, the five-star resort Hermitage Bay embodies the natural beauty of the region. Surrounded by lush greenery, white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, this luxury resort is like no other in the region. Hermitage Bay aims to “soothe the soul” of its guests and in a setting like this, you’ll experience the true meaning of what it is to “escape from it all”.
    For more information visit hermitagebay.com
    Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – Maldives

    Escape to the tropical playground of the Maldives at this exclusive resort. Having first opened in 2019, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi takes luxury to a new level. This sprawling resort is now one of the biggest and most impressive in the Maldives. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the resort features an incredible 11 dining concepts – the most of any resort in the country – and also has its very own private island, which is an impressive 344,445-sq ft and can be booked out in its entirety for those seeking ultra seclusion.
    For more information visit waldorfastoriamaldives.com
    The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

    Tucked away on a secluded island in French Polynesia, The St. Regis Bora Bora embodies the epitome of tropical paradise. Surrounded by nothing but sapphire blue waters, it’s a haven you’ll never want to leave once you arrive. To experience the true ‘wow-factor’ of the re- sort, opt for one of the luxurious over-water villas where you’ll see nothing but the blue ocean for miles on end. Each bungalow even features a glass viewing panels on the floor throughout where you’ll be able to catch glimpses of your temporary neighbours – the tropical fish – swimming by.
    For more information visit mariott.com
    Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa – Taha’a, French Polynesia

    Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa is an undisturbed resort located in the tropical islands of French Polynesia. Honouring the traditions of the region, the resort embodies authentic Polynesian architecture and interior design. Engulfed by the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, each accommodation option ensures guests experience the surrounding seas to their maximum. The standout, however, has to be the overwater villas where you’ll experience barefoot luxury at its finest, taking in the refreshing surroundings of the crystal-clear waters. letahaa.com
    For more information visit mariott.com
    What to pack

    June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    6 perspex pieces to add an edge to any space

    Lifestyle

    by Amy Sessions
    1 minute ago

    As warmer months approach, spending time indoors becomes the common norm.
    With simple additions to any home, each room can feel more inviting with minimum effort. With the power of practically invisible perspex décor to transform any space, these pieces are a surefire way for a clean-lined look.
    From coffee tables to bar stools, each home-décor item can transform any area without having to knock off the walls and go that extra mile. After adding a few touches, any outdated space can feel up-to-date with a hint of flair.
    To revamp your space, the experts at Emirates Woman have curated a guide of all the pieces that are sure to add an eclectic edge to any home.

    June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    7 incredible women discuss how they find clarity in their lives

    When it comes to self-care, prioritising yourself is of utmost importance.
    Even small steps can make a big difference and Emirates Woman spoke to several inspiring women to understand how they find clarity in their daily lives.
    Wdeema Al MheiriContent Creator @wdeemajay

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    I stay on a clear path by focusing on myself and what I want. I avoid listening to other people’s judgments or opinions so as to not distract me from my own goals. I decide my own path.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    I am a firm believer in speaking things into existence. Manifesting the things I want allows me to maintain clarity. I set my affirmations for every era of my life and whatever is meant to happen will happen. I also believe it’s important for me to surround myself with great people that have good intentions that encourage me to maintain this clarity.
    Nadya HasanContent Creator @nadyaa

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    With the work that I do, it’s very hard to separate personal life from business and that could lead to burnout, which happens in my case all the time. So I try to disconnect with travel which I do very often and it helps me have a clear mind and be able to continue to do what I love.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    In my everyday life, clarity doesn’t come that easy, so my husband and I take an hour off all social media and any electronics and take long walks around our neighbourhood and talk and have deep and meaningful conversations.
    Nora Al RamadhanCEO of Apotheca Beauty @apotheca_beauty

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    What I have found works for me is to set achievable, short-term goals on a monthly and quarterly basis that I strive towards. I make sure that these goals are not so out of reach and celebrate any small wins throughout the journey. When I focus too heavily on the long-term, the path towards achievement does not tend to be as clear and can change drastically. However, my overall views are to align my actions and goals with things that bring me happiness and peace of mind.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    In order to maintain everyday clarity, I try to stay as organized as possible and create several lists for things such as discussion points for meetings, overall daily to-do lists, household tasks that need to be done, etc. I tend to create lists sporadically on my phone and add to them as things come to mind throughout the day. All of my tasks, meetings and appointments are also put into my calendar – both work and personal, so that I can make sure nothing is missed and I have it all in front of me. Separately to keeping organized, taking time for self-care every day is incredibly important and necessary. This would include prioritizing morn- ing work-outs, cooking (which I love and find therapeutic), and quality time with friends and family. I try to listen to my body and give it rest when needed.
    Asma LootahFounder of The Hundred Wellness Centre @thehundredwellness

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    I have learned over the years that gaining clarity begins with asking yourself many questions, especially questions you might be avoiding that could trigger changes you may feel unprepared for. I don’t always have the answers, however, it gives me more of a sense of direction. I really believe it is also important to pay attention to what you want or need every day. Making small decisions – it can be as simple as choosing between tea or coffee, these small steps help build your confidence around what you want out of life. When you gain that clarity of what drives you, you can manifest anything you want. These small steps build the foundation that will allow you to pursue your goals without fear. Mental clarity gives me the awareness to stop and see things as they are in the present, appreciate life, celebrate what makes me happy and healthy and feel content. When you live in the moment, you have greater control over your mind, body, and emotions, and that moment you experience is the only moment you can control.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    Clarity is a work in progress, as life isn’t clear cut, however making time for myself to be still, to reflect and detach from the noise of the outside world is vital. Whether that is praying, sitting still and making mental notes or enjoying my morning ritual of sencha green tea, I believe looking deep within yourself, embracing self-awareness, and trusting your intuition is powerful, and ultimately gives you inner peace and clarity. I also believe in living life intentionally, a life that is aligned with your core values and one that promotes self-growth. It is important to have a purpose behind every decision you make, not to underestimate the importance of loving yourself, your uniqueness, and being present in the moment gives you and your life more clarity and meaning.
    Asma Al QassimContent Creator @asmaqassimm

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    In terms of my career, I’m always focused on presenting the product in the best way possible. I put myself in the designer’s eye and make sure to make the best out of it. I believe that every design should have its chance to be seen correctly. Every photoshoot I car- ry out, it feels like it’s my first time, so I make sure it’s the best one ever.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    Maintaining clarity means being clear about what makes me happy, healthy, loving, and with less confusion and doubts. But to reach there, this requires clearing out my mind from all distractions, then through a commitment to my designers who are looking for the best out of their designs, and then prioritizing my priorities and identifying what matters to me and my customers, get creative, and lastly to bring out the best of that day by enjoying what I do and sharing my day to day life, coffee, and drive with my followers to feel them close and special.
    Amna Banihashem

    Emirati Showjumper & Mechanical Engineer@amnabanihashem
    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    Faith plays a major role in my stability and clarity. It helps me focus and maintain my internal strength. When things get tough or confusing I use a method of introspection and self-reflection. My faith has helped me achieve this and self develop. Everyone needs a compass that brings them back on course, it is very important for each person to find his/her own.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    Faith plays a major role in the clarity of the mind. It reminds one that life is fleeting and the only certainty is death. A heavy reality, but it remains a reality. Thus, improving clarity on certain aspects of life like goals, family, and reactions. Taking the time to pause and think about what is truly important, and what is important enough to spend one’s energy on is crucial to maintaining clarity in an increasingly distracting world. The quality of our lives is heavily dependent on our perspective. Remembering that we have a limited time helps us make better decisions, stay present and create clarity on what is worth our precious and limited attention and time.
    Rhea JacobsModel & Creative@therjacobs

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path through- out the years?
    By respecting myself enough to relearn the true meaning of balance. I’ve placed it such that I work towards my goals giving it my best and yet am learning to prioritise my happiness and peace of mind – happiness to me means spending time with people I love, self-care moments, being present, letting go of negative and toxic baggage. Most of all, learning that it’s always about the journey rather than the destination. Every stumble is a lesson learned and rightfully so.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    By understanding that a lot of times things may seem unclear… and that’s part of the journey teaching you something. And mainly realising that you can’t pour from an empty cup. To replace what you take from your- self with introspection, kindness, self-care and love.
    June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Mercury Retrograde is officially over – here’s what to expect next

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    Words by Kirstyn Lewis – Founder of the Karmic Soul
    So, did you make it through Mercury Retrograde? Are you in one piece?
    Mercury on June  3, 2022, has moved forward again through Taurus and will be back where it started, in Gemini by  June 14. Give him the weekend off so he can move out of his retrograde shadow. He needs time to hit his strides again, he’s mentally exhausted, as we all are. You will be pleased to know you have passed another celestial test.
    Think back to the first three weeks of May, although your energy will be far from sluggish as Mars, the planet ruling your energy, is now in Aries giving you the impetus to do things. You are no longer indecisive. Forget any ambiguity for the next two years or so, you’re on a mission, or at least your spirit is. There’s no point in trying to outsmart the powers that be, but you’ll try I’m sure.
    Are you still contemplating the choices you made in and around work and health? The stars want to say thank you for listening to your intuition. It was the right thing to do. I hear you saying “did I really make the right decision?” Stop. You’re overthinking things and second-guessing things you needn’t.

    What you want is coming your way, don’t stress. June is easing on the breaks, giving you time to regroup.
    The Pisces, Aries and Taurus houses of our birth charts are particularly busy so pay attention to the topics they activate for you until mid-June or connect with your favourite astrologer for personal guidance.
    Gemini season typically means we spend an innate amount of time contemplating or talking about everything going on in and around our lives. Hot topics will be our career, work, health or our love life – if it remains unfulfilled or confusing. Are you trying to sleep through the problem? Or are you writing about it? Perhaps dreaming of one-upmanship? Are you happy at work? Probably not. You’re daydreaming. Perhaps you’d rather not be there! The days are long.
    Perhaps you’re not valued. You are really good at what you do but I’m sure you are simply being held back. It may be time to rewatch the Jane Fonda/Dolly Parton/Lily Tomlin film for inspiration. You’re also tired of know-it-all types. Work things out yourself, with the help of the internet if you can. Stay fluid and open and focused on what would you really love to do.
    You’re more organised than usual and prepared for anything that comes your way. Are you working on something secretive? It has long-term implications. Your mother or someone who represents maternal energy will be the most understanding of what you’re about to spring upon the family by the end of the month.
    With the full moon in Sagittarius on 14 June, it’s going to be action-packed. What’s going on? Get the popcorn ready.
    Listen out between June 17 to 25 for surprise news. It’s ‘fly on the wall’, heart over head, life-changing or even a last-minute decision that is more thought-through than others think.
    Venus, ruling love, romance and yes, money, will be switching things up by June 24 with the usual trickery Gemini loves to bring to the table.
    The New Moon in Cancer at the end of June will be quiet and soulful. Book a spa treatment, organise dinner with mum, or simply order in and watch your favourite rom-com. You’ll be thankful on the New Moon night you did.
    Quick glimpse ahead: August is looking a bit messy, as a lot will be demanded of you, (probably self-inflicted). Watch for unwavering family opinions. They want to call the cards on a long-term commitment you are ready to make (including any potential partners). Okay, so you may be able to blag your way through, but you’d be better to have a full-proof strategy; they’ll run out of steam soon enough. More on that closer to the time but you have the heads up now so you can navigate your way through with less stress by planning ahead.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @yana.potter.art More

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    12 inspiring instagram to follow this month

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    A curated guide of inspiring accounts to #follow
    Memo@memo-paris
    Luxury fragrance house born in Paris, shaped around the world.
    Julie Lemke@julielemkeskin
    Holistic esthetician recognised for restorative facials.
    Tibi@tibi
    Clean, contemporary classics, founded by Amy Smilovic.
    Canary Club@canaryclubdxb
    Bringing the iconic style and flavour of the West Coast to Dubai.
    Assouline@assouline
    A luxury brand devoted to culture & lifestyle.
    Guerlain@guerlain
    The Parisian alchemist of beauty since 1828.
    Victoria Beckham Beauty@victoriabeckhambeauty
    The cruelty-free makeup brand is committed to being transparent and sustainable.
    The Elixir Clinic@theelixirclinic
    Wellness, IV infusions and booster shots for a clean, clear life.
    Sarah Chapman@sarahchapmanlondon
    Award-winning skincare products plus glow-giving facial treatments.
    Skin Gym@skingymco
    Non-invasive skincare tools to enhance your daily beauty routine.
    MayaBay Dubai@mayabaydubai
    This culinary Asian haven is where modern meets traditional.
    Tata Harper Skincare@tataharperskincare

    All natural, cruelty-free beauty.
    June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More