More stories

  • in

    10 coffee table candles for a calming ambience

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
    After a long stressful day at work, candles can transform your space into an inviting oasis with its fresh notes.
    With both aesthetics and clean packaging, these candles create a relaxing ambience to slow down, set an intention and even unwind after a long day. As the perfect gift to give your loved ones or even some self-care, candles have the power to make any space feel warm and add that sense of comfort.
    When it comes to decorating your coffee table,  nothing is out of place, and there’s a perfect mix of personal and practical items. These can include matchbooks from romantic hotel getaways, handmade coasters from the flea market, and the like.
    By taking into consideration both quality of ingredients and burn time, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of candles for your next purchase.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @madisonelainebar More

  • in

    13 Dubai resorts with a private pool for a summer staycation

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Dreaming of having your morning tea, while you soak in your own private pool? Then you’re in the right place.
    When looking for a villa with a private pool, consider factors such as location, amenities, reviews, and the type of experience you want. To end the day, guests can also unwind with a private dip in the moonlight. The serenity and privacy of a pool suite lets you relax in bliss, without any distractions or disruptions.
    The entire staycation experience comes with high-end amenities and personalised services, making it ideal for couples, families, or groups seeking seclusion.
    So, get ready to beat the heat and retreat into a rooftop jacuzzi, private plunge pool or secluded swimming bath at one of these luxe hotels. These villas offer a blend of privacy, luxury, and unique experiences, making them ideal for a memorable stay in Dubai.
    Many of us want to escape Dubai, however the planning can become a tedious task. As it’s quiet over summer, taking a cityscape quick retreat can be easy without much planning. From Grecian-inspired havens such as Nikki Beach to more contemporary rustic villas such as Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf with the old-time dhow charm, the the options in this emirate are endless.
    If you’re looking where to book next, swipe through our guide of resorts in Dubai, that we can’t get enough of.

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

  • in

    Zuma opens its latest beachside outpost in Cannes

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Raina Becker, the Co-Founder of Zuma Restaurants on launching the new beachside Zuma in Cannes.
    Talk us through your background.
    Growing up in Germany, I honed my culinary skills in various kitchens, eventually joining the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Cologne in 1989 where I began to work with Asian flavours. My career took a pivotal turn in 1992 when I became Executive Chef at the Park Hyatt Sydney, also earning the title of Executive Caterer of the Year. In 1994, I moved to the Park Hyatt Tokyo, where I launched five restaurants and immersed myself in Japanese culinary traditions for six years. The rich history and disciplined excellence of Japanese cuisine deeply inspired me. In 2001, a chance meeting with investor Arjun Waney led to the founding of Azumi Limited, and in 2002, Zuma London was born.
    Its success spurred the creation of Roka and Shochu Lounge two years later. Today, there are twenty-four ZUMAs and twelve ROKAs worldwide, in cities including Dubai, Hong Kong, and Miami. In 2013, I introduced Oblix at The Shard, offering a dual dining experience with upscale, sophisticated urban dining. Later, I launched Inko Nito in Soho, London, in 2018, an approachable, relaxed restaurant in Soho that serves as a great introduction to our brands. We are proud of what we have achieved and continue to work hard to expand the brand into new and exciting markets.
    What inspired you to launch Zuma Cannes?
    France has always been on our radar, and when the opportunity arose to open a Zuma at the prestigious Palm Beach in Cannes we jumped at the chance. Our other Mediterranean locations – Capri, Porto Cervo and Mykonos are hugely popular, so it felt like a natural progression. Cannes epitomises everything Zuma stands for – sophistication paired with a sense of infectious energy. Our new venue there has the most stunning view of the Cote d’Azur, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from day one.

    What are some of the key dishes to try at the restaurant.
    You can’t go wrong with any of the Zuma signatures, especially my all-time favourite dish, tori no tebasaki – chicken wings with sake, sea salt and lime. The tuna and salmon tartare with oscietra caviar is always a crowd pleaser, and for something sweet the exotic fruits pavlova with cherry blossom chantilly and mango sorbet is a perfect end to the meal during the summer months, and exclusive to Zuma Cannes.
    The Zuma menu has evolved since its launch – could you elaborate.
    The Zuma menu has always kept its consistency on many levels as you will always find Zuma signature dishes on the menu of every location. However, we are always introducing new dishes to evolve the concept and take it to the next level, working with local produce in each new market we enter.
    The restaurant is known for its beautifully crafted interiors – what was the creative process behind the space?
    The brand adheres to a classic, simple, and timeless design philosophy and the essence of Zuma is seen in the use of four natural materials: glass, granite, steel and wood. Our design philosophy mirrors our food philosophy – appreciating quality and never being over complicated. One of the features I love the most is the entrance to the venue which runs through a low-ceiling tunnel, it’s a passageway intended to transition your mind from the mundane outside world and allows you to enter in both body and consciousness into the new surroundings. Zuma Cannes is truly one of a kind, and with an expansive terrace that overlooks the Mediterranean coastline it’s the perfect vantage spot to catch a sunset.
    The restaurant has a full sushi and robata counter – how is this a crucial aspect of the experience.
    The sushi and robata counters are pivotal to the ethos of Zuma and provide the authentic Japanese experience that we look to emulate. I think it’s one of the best places to sit in the restaurant, being directly in front of the chef means it’s the most advantageous spot for the full Zuma experience, relaxed and informal, plus you can’t book the counter – we always have a place for walk ins.

    The interiors have shades of blue in its furnishings – how is this an important element?
    The moment I touched down in the Cote D’Azur I was immediately inspired by the natural landscape. The blue details within the furniture at Zuma Cannes have been purposely curated to reflect the Mediterranean coastline. Everything about the design of the venue has been carefully considered so that the architecture and design blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Even the intricate lattice work integrates the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a continuous flow – it’s an ancient Japanese technique called ‘Shakkei,’ meaning ‘borrowed landscape.’
    The Palm Beach is a massive entertainment fun-filled haven – how did you decide this location?
    We could’ve never turned down the opportunity to have a restaurant in such an iconic and historic site, the location is second to none. We’re also in very good company in Palm Beach, with many of the other restaurants sharing in the same qualities and values as us.
    “Cannes epitomises everything Zuma stands for – sophistication paired with a sense of infectious energy.”
    How do you feel that the expansion of Zuma has reflected on your sites in the UAE?
    Zuma Dubai and Zuma Abu Dhabi are institutions of the company, they both changed the culinary scenes in their respective cities and continue to provide the consistent service, food and drinks that the people of the UAE have welcomed over the past decade. This year we celebrated 10 years of Zuma Abu Dhabi – something we are very proud of and look forward to many more. Our UAE clientele is very loyal, and we have the pleasure of welcoming them into all our venues across Europe as they travel during the summer months.
    What is next for you?
    There’s no slowing down for us. The highly anticipated Zuma Beach House will open in Dubai and bring a fresh take on the beach club scene, and we also look forward to our largest restaurant to date opening later this year, Zuma Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. New projects will continue to take us across the globe, with our first venture into Central America with Zuma Cabo. Roka, the sister brand of Zuma, will continue its global expansion as it already has a stronghold in the GCC in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi and Dubai.

    This is ‘The Summer Escape Issue’ – where do you plan on travelling to this Summer?
    We are blessed to have seasonal pop-up venues in so many amazing locations across Europe. I look forward to visiting our sites in Ibiza, Mykonos, Porto Cervo, Capri and Zuma Munich that has opened just in time for the EUROs. As well as this we opened Roka in Santorini for the first time this summer and I can’t wait to experience the view of the Caldera from the restaurant.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM – Download Now
    Images: Supplied  More

  • in

    12 global properties to tick off your bucket list

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    9 mins ago

    Want to sleep on Ice or be secluded amid azure waters with a water slide, then you’re in the right place with our editor-approved guide of bucket-list properties around the globe.
    When it comes to bucket list destinations to stay at – there’s one element that should clearly stand out, that is its uniqueness. Hence, whether you’re jetting off to a far-flung destination or travelling closer to home, what these bucket list breaks have in common is the stories and memories you’ll bring back.
    There are countless incredible resorts around the world, each offering its own unique blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. For your next trio, it’s time to elevate your journey into a thrilling experience that you’ll cherish forever.
    Without compromising on luxury, these one-of-a-kind properties ensure a highly personal experience for a memorable wanderlust experience, making it one for the books. From tropical to freezing cold destinations, we’ve searched far and beyond to see what lies above the ordinary stays. We’ve scoured the globe for hotels and resorts offering transcendent experiences.
    These are more than just finely curated sanctuaries; they redefine and eclipse conventional definitions of luxury. While the ideal paradise might be objective, luxury destinations of any kind provide much-needed retreats from everyday life.
    Now you can stay in hotels, from your favorite movies to the adrenaline-fueled ones located on the cliff – that’s called a big adventure. Those looking for action-packed adventure or poolside pampering, here are some of the best hotels and resorts worthy of any bucket list – and Instagram feed.
    Set amid nature, each property is a visual sight for the eyes, making it a globally loved destination by tourists all around the world.
    So, what better way to experience your new-found freedom than by visiting some of the most luxurious hotels in the world?

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

  • in

    13 global properties to tick off your bucket list

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 hours ago

    Want to sleep on Ice or be secluded amid azure waters with a water slide, then you’re in the right place with our editor-approved guide of bucket-list properties around the globe.
    When it comes to bucket list destinations to stay at – there’s one element that should clearly stand out, that is its uniqueness. Hence, whether you’re jetting off to a far-flung destination or travelling closer to home, what these bucket list breaks have in common is the stories and memories you’ll bring back.
    There are countless incredible resorts around the world, each offering its own unique blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. For your next trio, it’s time to elevate your journey into a thrilling experience that you’ll cherish forever.
    Without compromising on luxury, these one-of-a-kind properties ensure a highly personal experience for a memorable wanderlust experience, making it one for the books. From tropical to freezing cold destinations, we’ve searched far and beyond to see what lies above the ordinary stays. We’ve scoured the globe for hotels and resorts offering transcendent experiences.
    These are more than just finely curated sanctuaries; they redefine and eclipse conventional definitions of luxury. While the ideal paradise might be objective, luxury destinations of any kind provide much-needed retreats from everyday life.
    Now you can stay in hotels, from your favorite movies to the adrenaline-fueled ones located on the cliff – that’s called a big adventure. Those looking for action-packed adventure or poolside pampering, here are some of the best hotels and resorts worthy of any bucket list – and Instagram feed.
    Set amid nature, each property is a visual sight for the eyes, making it a globally loved destination by tourists all around the world.
    So, what better way to experience your new-found freedom than by visiting some of the most luxurious hotels in the world?

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

  • in

    20 sophisticated gifts for any interior lover

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    13 mins ago

    Home ornaments, such as vases and clocks, are sure to go down an interior treat, as are weighty, glossy tomes for the coffee table.
    To narrow it down, here are some editor-approved suggestions to either gift a host for any gathering, a birthday token, or even an element of appreciation for someone precious in your life.
    As we know, your home is your refuge, where you can feel safe and relaxed when life gets overwhelming. Soothing decor ideas help foster an interior space that sense of peace and significantly impact how you feel after a long day at work.
    Candles and Diffusers
    Scented candles or reed diffusers can add a pleasant aroma and ambiance to any room.
    Throw Blankets
    Cozy and stylish throw blankets are perfect for adding warmth and texture to a interior space.
    Decorative Pillows
    Fun and colorful pillows can easily change the look of a couch or bed. Whether you’re looking to add volume and design to your bed or give your living room sofa and accent chairs an extra touch of curated comfort, pillows are the best way to do so.
    Wall Art
    Prints, paintings, or even framed photos can add personality and style to empty walls.
    House Plants
    Indoor plants can bring life and a touch of nature indoors. So, whether you’re into zen wabi-sabi interiors, or splashy design with wall-to-wall color, there are so many ways to integrate indoor plants to uplift (or calm down) a space.
    Vases and Decorative Bowls
    These can be used for fresh flowers, potpourri, or as standalone decorative pieces.
    Books and Magazines
    Coffee table books or a subscription to a favorite magazine can be both decorative and enjoyable.
    Rugs
    A stylish rug can tie a room together and add comfort underfoot. An artistic statement piece can add a joyful and dynamic touch to any space.
    Kitchen Accessories
    High-quality kitchen gadgets, stylish cutting boards, or a set of beautiful dish towels. Overall, these suggestions can make any living space more inviting and personalised.
    So, next time you need to pick up a few delicately crafted pieces for someone you love, swipe through our gallery to see our handpicked suggestions.

    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @at_the_friends More

  • in

    17 apps for women in the UAE to download

    With our lives condensed into the palm of our hands on our phones nowadays, it’s essential to have all the necessary apps you need.
    From getting quick grocery deliveries to staying up-to-date with the latest trends, to ensuring you can get the best deals to experience life in Dubai, here’s 17 apps every woman living in the UAE needs to have on their phone.
    Ounass

    As the ‘definitive home of luxury’ for the Middle East, you can find the best local and international brands on the Ounass app. In Dubai there’s two-hour delivery available, meaning you can get that new outfit for a weekend brunch in the blink of an eye.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Bloomingdale’s

    Bloomingdale’s Middle East recently launched a new iOS app for the region, meaning you can shop right on your phone for all the latest new buys. Not only will shoppers have access to the most sought-after brands at their fingertips, but the delivery time for pieces will be minimal. For those based in the UAE, same-day delivery will be available and for Kuwait and Saudi, express shipping is available.
    You can download the app on the iOS store.
    Careem

    This hassle-free app is your one-stop-shop solution for all provides all your needs as you ride, order food and more around the UAE.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Microsoft Teams

    With the world adapting to the new work-from-home measures, the best way to stay connected to your team is through this all-encompassing app where members can chat, collaborate, share documents professionally and video call. Designed for hybrid working, this app lets company members connect from any part of the world making it easier to coordinate any upcoming project or assignment.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Level Shoes

    If you’re a shoe lover, this app is for you. This one-stop-shop haven gives you access to all the latest accessories all from the comfort of your home or even if you’re on the go, In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, this month Level Shoes will release a host of exclusive pieces from your favorite designer brands to get your hands on.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Talabat

    This online food ordering company ensures prompt service for all your needs, From restaurant deals to medicine delivered to your doorstep, this app connects customers to hundreds of restaurants and shops nearby making each service accessible without any added hassle. With the T-mart service on the app, customers are guaranteed fresh grocery deliveries in under 20 minutes without the need to physically visit any grocery store.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    RTA

    This award-winning app allows residents to top up their metro Nol card, renew their license, top up for parking and renew any car service. This smart app is designed to allow users to chat with RTA agents for any questions pertaining to safe driving measures. Users can also calculate their Green points according to the public transportation services used to keep an eye on the money, time and carbon dioxide emissions saved.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Deliveroo

    After paving its way in Dubai, the British food delivery company seamlessly delivers groceries, takeaways and event floral arrangements right to your doorstep. With an integrated delivery network, meets all your food needs with a plethora of restaurants including fine-dining options.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Viya

    To enjoy the best of what Dubai has to offer you need to ensure you download the UAE rewards app Viya. Think of the platform as your VIP access to around 100 city’s top restaurants and bars as well as sporting experiences, exclusive spa days and rounds of golf on Dubai’s leading courses. Sunseekers will love exclusive access to hotel pools and beaches by booking day pass via the app. The format is simple and works on a two-way loyalty system. For every Dhs10 you spend at a Viya partner, the app will reward you with Dhs1 that can eventually add up and go towards an unforgettable experience. In addition, you will enjoy savings on every purchase via the app. Your five-star access awaits from only Dhs1,375 for three months.
    InstaShop

    Get your groceries from your trusted local supermarkets on InstaShop at the same in-store prices with a 45 minute average delivery depending on your location. You need to simply download the app, sit back and the experts on this platform will handle the rest.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    The Entertainer

    This money-saving app is packed with numerous one for two offers along with 25 per cent off at some major outlets, be it restaurants, spas, shops, hotels or even activities as you experience more and pay less.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Namshi

    As the Middle East’s largest online fashion site, the Namshi app is a must-have to get all the best and latest pieces at a reasonable price. With over 500 brands and 10,000 items of clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll sit there browsing for hours.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Spotify

    What better way to listen to all the songs and podcasts you love than on one consolidated app, giving you access on any gadget whether a phone, computer or tablet. Always ready at your fingertips, you can even let Spotify surprise you with their personalised playlists which are curated especially according to your taste as you sit back and relax with the premium subscription also available for uninterrupted learning.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    The Dubai Mall

    As the largest shopping centre in the world, getting around The Dubai Mall can prove to be difficult if you’re new to the UAE. However, the app is your ultimate guide to helping you get around the mall to find the best shops and restaurants Dubai Mall has to offer.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Zoom

    With strict worldwide travelling measures, keeping in touch with your friends can be quite the task. The Zoom app has made staying up-to-date with your loved ones easy, as with a click of a button you can all connect as frequently catch up with each other.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    Washmen

    For those on a busy schedule or just want an app that can take care of your washing, Washmen will be a godsend. Washmen is a simple app that takes care of your laundry with wash & fold and clean & press services. The usual turnaround time for garments is 48 to 72 hours.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    6thStreet

    The elevated fashion and lifestyle e-commerce brand is committed to providing round the clock service for bags, shoes and outfits. Delivered right to your doorstep, the platforms give users the best of global brands at the most accessible prices. From activewear to an exclusive selection of fragrances, shoppers can scroll to their heart’s content.
    You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: @veneti.a More

  • in

    Exclusive: An interview the co-founder of Dubai’s The Matcha Tokyo

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    Co-founder, Masahiro Nagata of The Matcha Tokyo on bringing a niche matcha concept to the city.
    What inspired you to The Matcha Tokyo?
    I have been familiar with Japanese tea since I was a child, but I became interested in it particularly after spending many years abroad; with my great appreciation of Japanese cuisine, I became interested in learning more about it it. I visited Japan’s tea producing regions to learn more and was especially captivated with the profundityof organic cultivation, which begins with the preparation of clean water, clear air and fertile soil. This experience inspired me to want to spread the deliciousness and magnificence of Japanese cuisine to the world.
    Talk us through the concept.
    We are a lifestyle brand that offers high-quality matcha, which has great benefits for health and beauty, in a modern manner.

    What are some of the key dishes and beverage to try at The Matcha Tokyo?
    We would like you to try all our wide variety of matcha drinks and food, but our signature menu items are straight matcha and matcha latte. Each cup of straight matcha is prepared in a ceremonial performance, which you can enjoy watching in-store. Matcha Latte is our most popular item, made with rich matcha and high-quality Japanese brown sugar. We take pride in producing an authentic matcha taste in our Matcha Latte, fitting for a matcha specialty store.
    Matcha has an array of health benefits for your skin – name a few.
    Matcha contains a lot of catechin, which has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making it excellent for anti-aging and beauty. It is also rich in vitamins, which are excellent for beautifying the skin, as well as rich in dietary fiber, which is good for intestinal health. With rich nutrients, matcha makes you beautiful from the inside out.
    What are some of the health benefits of The Matcha in the long run?
    Matcha also contains theanine, an amino acid that has a relaxing effect on the brain, thus making it good for daily “mental health” as well as “brain health”, as the theanine activates the brain, improving cognitive function and lessening tension; these are very important and welcome benefits.
    Tell us about some unique offerings at The Matcha Tokyo?
    Our drinks are unique, combining matcha with different ingredients, such as matcha and coffee, matcha and fruit, matcha and protein. Each menu item is made with the concept of enjoying matcha beautifully and healthily, so we hope you can enjoy them while keeping that in mind.

    Tell us where your matcha is sourced from?
    The Matcha Tokyo creates its own unique blends of matcha from carefully selected tea leaves grown in Kagoshima Prefecture, Uji City in Kyoto Prefecture, and Shizuoka Prefecture. The tea leaves are carefully prepared with delicate craftsmanship in an isolatednatural setting.
    Can you expand on how the traditional Japanese tea ceremony relates (or doesn’t) to matcha?
    The ‘Tea Ceremony’ is performed in a formalised room with specialised tools, selected artwork, and ritualised flow. The host and guest(s) respect each other and the space during tea ceremony, upholding this ritual and completing the space. Japanese food and sweets are served, but the main character is “matcha”. The ceremony itself is called tea ceremony, whereas learning about this ritual is called “Sado”. Sado incorporates Japanese spirituality and is a unique traditional Japanese art, so it has attracted attention from overseas.

    How has the love for Matcha in new regions developed in recent years?
    Matcha is recognised as a healthy drink primarily due to its green colour, but aside from its appearance is great for beauty and health. In Dubai, it is spreading its influence as a superfood. Matcha is delicious, nutritious, and comes in a powder form that is easy for processing, so it has the potential to be used in many different ways: as a food, a supplement, and more. Furthermore, because matcha is excellent for brain and mental health, we believe that the future of matcha is for it to be consumed as a part of daily routine: at home with family and friends, not just at cafes.
    This is The Summer Escape Issue – where do you plan on travelling to this Summer?
    I plan on going to the great outdoors for a digital detox.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM – Download Now More