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      16 global restaurants that have undoubtedly made their mark in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 16 IMAGES
      For a myriad of culinary options, Dubai is the place to be.
      As the emirate is well-known for offering an unparalleled fine-dining experience no matter what the cuisine, Emirates Woman takes a closer look at all the global culinary havens that have made their mark in the city.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @indochine More

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      14 useful gems to instantly *add to cart* from Amazon

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      15 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 14 IMAGES
      The popular retailer has become home to a myriad of useful products that work as the perfect life hack.
      Whether you’re looking to spruce up your interiors or simply purchase a useful gift for your best friend Amazon has it all. With an overwhelming selection of items, finding the most useful items can become a daunting task.
      Whether a TikTok trend, recommendation from a friend or a desire to spruce up your interiors led you to the website, finding investment-worthy goods to last for a long time has never been easier and to narrow it down we’re here to help.
      Set to revolutionise your daily routine, these must-own products, be it beauty-related or kitchen appliances, can add a little twist making each task much more enjoyable.
      As its massive inventory has a wild variety of items varying from gadgets, practical wares and bathroom organizer items to an ice maker, the options are endless.
      So, here’s a sneak peek into our Amazon Cart to inspire you for your next bulk order.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      How I got my job as… Founder of this bespoke multi-wellness space in Dubai

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      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 CEO & Founder of Blended Wellness and Partner & Creative Director, Solutions Leisure Group, Dominique Laird. The group is a pioneer of the approachable dining, nightlife and entertainment scene, creating the moments people live for, from day to night. With brands such as STK, ULA, En Fuego, Asia Asia and more, the portfolio has expanded over the years and it continues to grow.
      The multi-wellness destination, Blended, combines fitness with a host of pampering options, making it a one-stop for all your self-care needs. Founded by Laird, the concept began with her vision to redefine the meaning of beauty standards in the region. She wanted to create a space where individuals can feel at home and focus on improving their own self-care needs. With a more medical approach to aesthetics, this venue offers an extensive array of cutting-edge treatments such as botox, fillers, threads, or even an IV Drip to boost energy levels.
      To delve more into her journey as an entrepreneur, Emirates Woman sat down with Laird to see how it all began.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      From an early age, I resonated towards ways I could express myself creatively. Whether that be picking up a sketch pad, stitching a Barbie fashion line or choreographing musicals before bedtime. At school, art was the subject I looked forward to, the freedom within the curriculum was unlike math, science and history. It gave room for artistic license, with little to no incorrect answers. I was drawn to opportunities that celebrated individuality, where your work was almost incomparable to others. Art made me happy. Being creative felt natural, it felt easy.
      What was your first job?
      My first work experience was at Toni & Guy. My cousin, Samantha, was head colourist and managed to get me a junior position. I loved working in an environment where the team’s main priority was to make people feel good.Through skill and creativity the team changed people’s mood for the better. Adding value with each swish of a comb.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      Following my passion for creativity and arts, at 16 I moved to London to train in musical theater on a full scholarship. Dancing made me feel alive, without judgment. Expressing emotions through movement felt more natural to me than speech. Classes lead to shows, castings lead to tv and theater. Teaching turned into Contracts, contracts turned into travelling the world and landed me in Spain, Greece and eventually Egypt, where I ran the entertainment for the global music brand, Ministry of sound for Solutions Group. Still wanting to feed my creative need on multiple levels, throughout my career as a performer, I became a professional hair and makeup artist, which gradually combined itself with avant-garde editorial creation and conceptual design for stage and catwalk. I was happily blending all my skills together, building my portfolio with not only performance, but with design and creative direction. My job role today, Group Creative Director of Solutions Group, combines my love of Art, entertainment and design. I am lucky enough to lean on my creative energy to develop concepts, brands, interior design, entertainment, production and all the fun elements in between.

      What inspired you to enter the wellness space?
      Although performing was my passion, it fast-became my downfall. Unobtainable, unsustainable beauty standards became something I very quickly obsessed with. The place where I found the most peace, quickly became a cage of self-hate and disappointment. I was trapped in a very dark place for what seemed like an eternity. After 10 years, both my body and mind were failing to sustain a normal level of daily activity. After accepting the need for change and admitting to myself that I controlled my own happiness, I started the journey of recovery, the same one I walk today. I quickly developed a very good understanding of the importance of self-love and mindfulness. I channeled every ounce of my being into wellness and celebrating individuality in others and myself. Wellness isn’t just a word. It’s a mindset, a lifestyle, an all-encompassing journey that everyone deserves. When the opportunity arose to create a space for people to experience and benefit from multiple aspects of wellness in a single space, I wasn’t going to shy away.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      I don’t have a role within Blended Wellness, I have a goal. I aspire to provide support, knowledge and guidance. To offer experiences and events that inspire and celebrate as many people as physically possible. I aim to provide result driven wellness treatments, services and activities that empower and elevate the mind, body and soul. I want to make a difference to how my guests feel. I want them to know, they are worth it. Every single day.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      Get up, get dressed, get at it. Every morning starts with a sleepy coffee and a small struggle to prize myself into my gym gear. I work out every day, not only for the physical benefit, but the mental clarity and strength it provides. I don’t negotiate with myself. Mind over matter. Something my partner, Paul, and myself firmly believe in. My days are fast-paced, multilayered and far from straight forward. I am organised chaos, always running towards a deadline, deciphering a 4am idea or juggling a new build project. I split my time between being a very busy Creative Director for Solutions Group with my CEO role for Blended Wellness – both, I absolutely adore.

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Don’t follow in anyone’s footsteps. Your journey is your own. Find your passion, figure out what it is you are truly good at. Everyone has something that lights them up, just figure out what yours is and run with it. Don’t let pride or the fear of failure dictate the direction you walk. Choose your path and stick to it, relentlessly.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      Speak to yourself with kindness. Treat yourself with respect. Look at your reflection and acknowledge you are one of a kind. Nobody is you.

      And what is the worst?
      I make a conscious decision to forget negative or hurtful advice or opinions. Holding onto words that fail to resonate or benefit me have no place in my mind.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      Cultivating an acceptance of who I was and how I wanted to feel. Battling through the pain and sadness in order to truly believe I was worthy and deserving of experiencing self love.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @dominiquelaird More

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      Watch: Sheikha Mozah shares a heartfelt moment with her mother on social media

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      10 mins ago

      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum shared an emotional moment this weekend on her Instagram feed when her mum piloted her first passenger flight with Emirates at 19 years old.

      She shared a heartfelt post with the caption, “My first passenger flight on @emirates at 19years old.. Mum kept her promise and came on my first flight, unforgettable, extremely grateful and I love you beyond words.”
      Our former November 2020, cover star has made her mark in the aviation industry and has also received a personal congratulations from her cousin, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, as she had become the first member of the royal family to fly as a qualified commercial pilot for Emirates.
      “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it,” she previously told Emirates Woman.
      Achievements
      First in 2019, Sheikha Mozah became the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot.
      Then in May 2022, she broke another record in the world of aviation by become the first female to pilot the AW609 tiltrotor, an air vehicle which combines the operational versatility of a helicopter and performance of an aeroplane.

      Mozah bint Marwan becomes first woman to pilot AW609 tiltrotor.#WamNews pic.twitter.com/6sBIrnYyGq
      — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) May 30, 2022

      Later, in October 2022, Sheikha Mozah became the world’s first public flight of the two-seater eVTOL (electric vehicle take-off and landing) flying car X2, that took place in Dubai.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Emirates Woman Cover Shoot November 2020 More

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      Why flowers.ae delivers luxury bouquets all-year round in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      For those looking for a romantic gesture, a heartfelt apology, or a token of appreciation, flowers are the perfect option for someone you love.
      With impeccable quality at the helm of flowers.ae, customers can choose from a myriad of vibrant blooms, in order to leave a lasting impression on the receiver. By cracking the code to success, Flowers.ae has elevated the online flower shopping experience by taking it new heights.

      Their dedication to quality, personalisation, customer service, convenience, and innovation has propelled them to the forefront of the industry. For those who need a personal touch, bespoke arrangements can be created according to each preference with a heartfelt message to complement the arrangement.
      “As for the future, Flowers.ae will continue to grow, increase its market share and enhance its position in the floral market as the region’s go-to luxury florist,” Marketing Manager at flowers.ae, Dina Almalik previously told Emirates Woman.
      “We go above and beyond in creating flower arrangements that will make that special occasion extraordinary and unforgettable,” she further shared.

      For spontaneous, planned or any last-minute celebrations, the brand’s efficient delivery service guarantees same-day delivery to ensure your flowers arrive at the right time and the right place. By keeping the sustainable consumer in mind, Flowers.ae puts ethical practices at the forefront the brand uses eco-friendly packaging and maintains ethical practices in the floral industry.
      By leveraging the power of social media, Flowers.ae has created a community of flower enthusiasts, further strengthening their brand and expanding their reach in the UAE and the world.

      With over 94 percent of the reviews earning 5 stars, customers have spoken, and they are committed to maintaining our exceptional level of service. The website is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for customers to browse through the extensive collection and place their orders effortlessly. With a few simple clicks, you can select the perfect bouquet, choose a delivery date, and even track your order in real-time.
      To make your next purchase visit flowers.ae. The brand is proud to have achieved the highest rating on both Trustpilot and Google, making them the Top Rated 24-Hour Flower Delivery Service in Dubai and the most trusted florist in the UAE.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Get your creative juices flowing with 8 of these hotspots in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      If you’re stuck in the rut of the same routine every morning and need a break to get those creative juices flowing, we’re here to help.
      From stimulating discussions on though-provoking subjects to art galleries showcasing the world of notable artists, Dubai is never short of venues to feel rejuvenated.
      Whether you’re an art fanatic or enjoy taking part in various workshops, there’s enough and more to ensure, your skills are used and you can learn from the experts to simply take a break from your phone.
      So, to revamp your daily routine, here are the editor-approved creative spots to visit with exclusive programmes this month.
      TODA

      TODA is the UAE’s first 360° hub that strives to enrich the cultural landscape, combining art & technology. From classical masterpieces to various digital shows and wellness sessions, guests can art like never before with its various interpretations. This July, visitors can immerse themselves into the captivating world of traditional Japanese art, where stunning visuals come to life as the untold story of Van Gogh unfolds. To complement the experience, visitors can also partake in different traditional Japanese customs, including tea tasting, Ikebana masterclasses (the art of flower arrangement), and Haiku learning (a form of Japanese poetry). Located at Souk Madinat, Jumeirah, the ticket prices range from Dhs72 to Dhs350.
      For more information visit toda.ae
      Cinema Akil

      The fully-fledged arthouse cinema brings people from all around the world together to enjoy films ranging from classics to regional films. Being the GCC’s first arthouse cinema, it aims to create awareness and interest in film and the cinematic arts. Having opened its first permanent location in Al Quoz, Dubai, this platform showcases directors and filmmakers across the decades. It’s located in Warehouse 68. Ticket prices start at Dhs50 exclusive of VAT and can be purchased online, with movies focused on different themes each month. During the month of July until September 14, 2023, Cinema Akil is proudly showing 10 films of the most “Americanitalian” of all directors, Martin Scorsese. For a snack break, Project Chaiwala serves a variety of teas including their signature and Karak along with other dishes to indulge in during the show.
      For more information visit cinemaakil.com
      The Jam Jar

      If you want to unleash your inner Picasso, this is the place to visit. By contributing to Dubai’s art scene, The Jam Jar is a community arts space that engages audiences, promotes local artists, and supports the development of Dubai’s art scene through extensive art programmes, community projects and educational initiatives. By building a bridge between arts and education, this multi-functional space offers the region’s first DIY painting studio, which is accessible to people across different ages. It’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 7pm, Friday from 2pm to 8pm and Saturday from 10am to 7pm and is located in Unit H74. Canvas’ start at Dhs100 for the small one with supplies such as paintbrushes and paints to ensure visitors can embark on a creative journey as they switch off and paint.
      For more information visit thejamjardubai.com
      Jameel Arts Centre

      This independent institution is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary art. Positioned as a new creative destination in the city, and a hub for educational initiatives and cultural events, Jameel Arts Centre includes an open-access research library dedicated to artists and cultural movements of the Arab world, plus project and commissions spaces, a roof-top terrace, writer’s studio, members’ lounge, a chic café known as Teible along with a sculpture park.
      For more information visit jameelartscenter.org
      The Mud House

      Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned potter, there’s no end to pottery making at this one-of-a-kind studio. The experienced staff will take visitors through each step from centering and wedging to pulling and trimming for the wheel throwing class and they will guide you through each step of the process, from Pinching and Coiling to Slab Building and Slump Molding for the hand building class. Located in Warehouse No. 2 in Al Quoz Industrial 3, behind Dubai Garden Centre, it’s open from Tuesday 2pm to 8pm, Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm and is closed on Monday. Prices for one single session start at Dhs210 per person.
      For more information visit mudhousestudio.com
      Paus; Wellness + Community

      This quaint wellness space offers a series of stimulation sessions on different thought-provoking topics each month. Known as Matcha Mornings and Chai Chats, guests can engage in conversations with different individuals to expand their understanding on each topic. This month, guests can explore the intriguing topic: ‘Optimist or Realist: Shaping Perspectives on Life’ on July 27, from 8-9pm and delve into the topic: ‘Ignorance is Bliss: Unveiling the Role of Ignorance in Personal Growth’ on on July 30, from 11am to 12pm. Each session is priced at Dhs35 per person and can be booked online along with a complimentary matcha.
      For more information visit pausdxb.com
      Oo La La

      In the mood for creating your own fragrance? Use the Oo Fragrance Table to select ingredients and build up your own fragrance formula. 1000’s unique olfactory combinations can be crafted. From workshops to collaborations with luxury fashion brands, Oo La Lab hosts several sensorial workshop sessions for people to enjoy with friends, family or even alone. Located in Warehouse 58, it’s open from Wednesday to Sunday 12pm to 7pm. The candle mixology workshops are priced at Dhs400 per person and the fragrance design and mixology group session is priced at Dhs400.
      For more information visit oola-lab.com
      ICD Brookfield

      For a glimpse into the eclectic artwork of Palestinian-American artist Lena Kassicieh, , ICD Brookfield Place will be hosting a series of pop-up events in collaboration with its restaurants. Guests can immerse themselves in a world of colour, enchantment and joyful visuals as Kassicieh’s masterpieces take centrer stage. To celebrate this extraordinary art exhibition participants such as Josette, Lulu & The Beanstalk and La Niña will be featured as a pop-up space offering a unique and fun F&B experience along with summer inspired games. The unforgettable experience is hosted at Josette on July 27, 2023 from 6pm onwards, August 3, 2023 at Lulu & the Beanstalk from 6pm onwards and at La Niña on August 10 from 6:00PM onwards. All walk-ins are accepted and no prior booking is required.
      For more information visit ICDbrookfieldplace.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @mi_micher More

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      Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana has put this Dubai café on our radar

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      59 mins ago

      The newly married Royal couple are slowly making their rounds in Dubai and visiting some of the most exciting spots in the city.
      After Sheikha Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum and her husband Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum got married in April 2023, they are showing their followers what activities to try and where to visit in the emirate.
      By adding another café to our radar, on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, the Royals visited Novikov Café in The Dubai Mall, Fashion Avenue, a Mediterranean Brasserie known for its gastronomic experience and warm ambience.

      Home to a variety of delectable desserts such as their carrot cake with a twist, berry tart, the classic French toast, flaky croissants and more. Additionally, Guests can savour other mouthwatering dishes such the Beef Fillet complemented by potatoes with mushroom sauce, sea bass, the flavourful Strozzapreti and a myriad of other dishes crafted to perfection.

      So, if you’re on the lookout of where to visit next, you can even take inspiration from the Royals for your next breakfast or lunch outing.
      When did the couple get married?
      His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter Sheikha Mahra got engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum in March. On April 5 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media. Her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum has served a year in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Security and Risk Management from the American University in the Emirates.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @hhmahra More

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      Why Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa should be added to your travel bucket list

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      29 mins ago

      We discuss what sets Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa apart and sees its global guests returning each year with General Manager, Mohamed El Aghoury.
      What sets Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa apart?
      Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is situated on a private island in the North Malé Atoll. Just a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, the resort offers a perfect tropical escape for families and anyone seeking an island getaway. The resort boasts amazing facilities – including seven restaurants and bars, two sparkling freshwater pools, an orchid garden, a tennis court, and a 24-hour gym. What really sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to family experiences. We have a fantastic Side-by-Side Family Programme that offers unique activities for bonding and creating memories together. From exploring the underwater world to relaxing picnics on nearby islands, we have it all. We are also deeply dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the island and have implemented several eco-initiatives, such as our Adopt A Coral programme, and the use of various sustainable practices. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa truly captures the essence of a convenient tropical escape, where families can make lifelong memories together.

      The spa focuses on holistic treatments – why is this important?
      Our spa is located on its very own island and is equipped with six luxurious treatment villas, a VIP treatment suite, his-and-her hydrotherapy pools, a relaxation lounge, and a steam room. The spa offers several holistic treatments that range from traditional aromatherapy and ayurvedic massages, to locally inspired deep ocean therapies. This combination of treatments is designed to promote relaxation and improve concentration, providing a truly rejuvenating experience. Our resort also offers the services of an on-site Yoga Practitioner, Dr Abhilash, who leads our comprehensive wellness programme. With his expertise, he not only oversees all wellness activities but also conducts invigorating Yoga and Meditation classes for our guests.
      How important is variety in terms of dining when it comes to an island stay?
      Our resort encourages guests to embark on a culinary journey with its diverse range of dining options, all curated by our talented Chef Riccardo Pinna. Chef Riccardo has designed delicious meal plans that cater to various tastes and occasions. For those favouring the flavours of India, Masala Hut offers a delightful selection that is sure to please any palate. Kakuni Hut brings a taste of the Caribbean to the Maldives, serving expertly prepared Tiki Cocktails. Other dining options include Chopstix, Feast, Baan Thai, Sea Salt, and the lively Anchorage Bar. Our resort also includes a Maldivian Night Buffet featuring authentic Maldivian cuisine with fresh catches of the day. We also have live entertainment, live music and a talented DJ who performs daily at different outlets. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa also offers Destination Dining. Guests looking for something more extraordinary can opt to enjoy their lunch at our lagoon or have a picnic by the beach. Couples can also enjoy romantic dinners, carefully planned by our team. No matter the preference, our resort ensures an exceptional culinary experience for its guests.

      Sustainability is an important factor at this resort – what practices have been implemented?
      We take sustainability seriously, implementing various practices to protect the environment. One notable initiative is our coral propagation project, where over 6,000 coral fragments from 15 different species have been rescued and transplanted onto coral pyramids, restoring reef habitats and creating new colonies. Guests can participate in the “Adopt A Coral” programme to contribute to this restoration effort. The resort also addresses plastic waste by operating an innovative water bottling plant that purifies seawater using reverse osmosis technology. This eliminates the need for plastic water bottles, as purified water is bottled in reusable glass containers. The resort’s lush island is adorned with diverse plant life, and fallen branches are repurposed for boat building. Our unique outdoor gym is constructed from recycled materials, embodying both sustainability and innovation. With the removal of disposable plastic straws and stirrers, the resort actively reduces its landfill waste. Just recently, we also implemented our very own Chef Garden, allowing us to harvest vegetables and fruits from the island and eliminating the need for transportation from the mainland. Our marine conservation programme is also a result of our partnership with Reefscapers – a coral propagation organisation appointed by the Maldivian Government – to protect the marine habitat and restore the coral reefs of the Maldives. Guests staying at the resort can participate in the ‘Adopt A Coral’ program – a coral fragment plantation initiative that aims to restore reef habitats and produce new coral colonies – alongside our talented on-site marine biologist, Kate Sheridan. The coral propagation programme concept is simple: guests start by attaching small fragments of corals onto a metal frame, allowing corals to mature into new colonies in our lagoon. This improves the marine habitat and increases the number of fish species and marine life in the surrounding areas.

      This is The Summer Escape Issue – where will you be escaping to this summer?
      My family and I will be visiting Greece this year. We are very excited to get together and explore the wonderful country as a family and really cherish our time together. Athens, Santorini, and Meteora are all at the top of my list.
      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More