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      2 Jaipur Insiders on navigating all the hot spots and hidden gems in the city

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      The Pink City of Jaipur is a travel bucket-list worthy destination that enchants and excites. Abundant in colour, beauty, and history, it offers a feast for the eyes.
      Here, Emirates Woman asks two tastemakers to share insider information to get the best city experience Jaipur has to offer, from hidden gems to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
      ANITA DONGREFounder and Chief Creative Officer at Anita Dongre

      A hidden gem: I love spending time at The Colannade overseeing the beautiful lawns at The Rajmahal Palace. With its vibrant wallpapers and candy pink artdeco facade, the 19th-century palace hotel truly celebrates the modern heritage vibe of Jaipur.

      A can’t-miss experience: Next time you are in Jaipur, you must spend a day with the craftswomen of the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, learning their arts, culture, and life stories, at Badal Mahal in City Palace Jaipur. The economic empowerment of rural women has incredible positive ripple effects in their families, communities and society as a whole.

      BARBARA MIOLINIFounder of Villa Palladio and Bar Palladio

      A hidden gem: Gyan Museum, located a little outside of the city. This is the private collection of a jewellery family built in honour of their late father. The collection comprises gorgeous miniature paintings (the display of which is genius), stunning objet d’art, and a charming display of decorative hookah spouts. The space is incredible – a brutalist cave reminding one of a cavern of treasure. After a visit to the museum, guests are treated to private viewings of the family’s contemporary collection of outrageous diamonds, sapphires and rubies. As it is located a bit out of the way, not many people know about this incredible place, but it is well worth the trip.

      A can’t-miss experience: A beautiful experience in the city (and located on the way to Villa Palladio) is a visit to Khanoom Jaipur. A labour of love built between Simon Marks, a fabulous artist dedicated to handicraft and lost traditions, and Priyamvadha Golcha, an incredible aesthete and businesswoman looking to pave a new future for craft development in Rajasthan, Khanoom is an incredible and gorgeous ceramics workshop. The collection of tableware is actually stunning, entirely hand painted by a talented cadre of miniature painters. Plus, they often host workshops open to the public.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      April’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – Download Now
      Images: Supplied and Instagram @theroyalfamilyofjaipur More

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      Exciting news for travellers: British Airways resumes London-Abu Dhabi flights

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      Great news for globetrotters! British Airways, the renowned flag carrier of the UK, has reinstated its flights between London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi, marking a return after a hiatus of four years.
      Starting April 20, passengers can once again hop aboard British Airways’ daily flights from the bustling British Capital to Abu Dhabi’s newly renamed Zayed International Airport. Prices for one-way tickets start at Dhs1,795, with return fares available from Dhs3,380.
      The resumption of this vital air corridor, which is anticipated to witness substantial passenger traffic, comes after the route’s last operation in 2019. Adding to the allure, Boeing’s acclaimed 787-9 Dreamliner will service the London-Abu Dhabi route from the upcoming summer season.

      For travellers planning their journey, BA73 will depart from London Heathrow at 10:25 PM local time, reaching Abu Dhabi at 8:30 AM. Conversely, BA72 flights departing from Abu Dhabi are scheduled to take off at 10:10 AM, ensuring passengers arrive in London by 3:20 PM. Please note that adjustments in timings during winter will see BA73 landing in Abu Dhabi at 9:30 AM and departing at 11:10 AM instead.
      With British Airways already connecting neighboring Dubai to London, the resumption of flights to and from Abu Dhabi promises enhanced connectivity between the UAE’s capital and one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. Residents of the capital city have been enjoying improved access to the UK capital since last year, with Etihad Airways reintroducing the mighty A380 superjumbo to cater to this route.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram: @british_airways More

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      Want to book a riverside retreat in Bangkok? The Peninsula is the perfect option

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      22 mins ago

      Away from the hustle and bustle that Bangkok has to offer, finding solace in the busy city can really add a certain charm to the holiday.
      Just a 7-hour flight from Dubai, The Peninsula Bangkok serves as the perfect haven to reside at during your stay.
      Situated by the banks of Chao Phraya River, this riverside retreat has proven its appeal throughout decades, with its boldly-designed interiors that have shaken up the conventions of Thai hospitality.

      As the chaos of the bustling metropolis continues to meet the serenity of ancient traditions, the city continues to create an apetite for adventures, with its treasure trove of cultural experiences. Adding to its old time elegance, is this five-star property known for its distinct urban resort experience.
      So, if you’re looking for the perfect getaway in Bangkok, here’s why The Peninsula might be the one.
      Spacious rooms

      Deluxe Suites offer guests the ultimate in sophisticated luxury. The Thai teak floors and sensuous silk furnishings are complemented by Asian artworks and the living area is perfect for entertaining with a dining table for four and a separate guest powder room. For extravagent living, the Peninsula Suite is the pinnacle of refinement and luxury in Bangkok. Set on the 34th floor, the suite is the preferred choice among visiting dignitaries, heads of state, and their families and entourages. Stunningly appointed throughout with the finest crystal chandeliers, oriental carpets, Thai silks, antiques, and teak wood panelling, the suite encompasses capacious master and guest bedrooms, vast marble baths, a private gym, and a butler’s room.

      Embark on a culinary journey
      During breakfast guests can savour healthy dishes breakfast buffet line, where we offer almond milk quinoa yogurt, chocolate coconut yogurt and soymilk yogurt, with a variety of granola and superfood powder; kale, spirulina, turmeric, wheatgrass, matcha and Baobab along with a gluten-free menu. A special healthy cold-pressed-juice corner has been introduced for our breakfast and also in all restaurants’ menus, with benefits that include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and more. Homemade kombucha and a healthy tonic have also been recently launched at all the restaurants. The Peninsula Bangkok, in an ongoing effort, is continuing to offer a plant-based menu, which it introduced across all restaurants. Recently launched is Mei Jiang Exclusive, an experiential dining nine-course plant-based Chinese-inspired menu and also a plant-based afternoon tea. In addition, guests can also attend our sourdough-making class as part of our resort experience. The property has a host of restaurant for guests to dine at including Thiptara Restaurant, River Café & Terrace, The River Bar, Mei Jiang and The Peninsula Pool Bar to relax and unwind at.
      Keep your health on track

      To support the Peninsula Health and Wellbeing, The Peninsula Bangkok has introduced a comprehensive retreat programme that is designed to offer guests a sense of tranquillity and harmony of body and mind. The holistic approach is based on four elements: a healthy dining choice, an exercise programme, sleep and mindfulness. With a roster of weekly activities, guests can choose from a myriad of exercises varying from sunrise yoga to the Gong Wu Shrine by the Chao Phraya River and also experience different exercises such as Pilates, Aquatics, HIIT, stretching, Muay Thai boxing and more for in-house guests.
      Try your hand at cooking
      Known as the land of flavours, the Naturally Peninsula Garden unlocks the secrets of traditional Thai cuisine through its aromatic spices and herbs. Every Thursday at pm, this class is perfect for family guests seeking insights into the medicinal powers of Thai herbs. Afterwards, guests enjoy a Thai herb salad tasting hosted by the hotel’s expert chefs.
      Put your wellness first

      The 90-minute treatment lets recipients fully immerse in the healing traditions of different parts of Asia. Guests begin the journey by choosing one of four organic aromatherapeutic oils, which are used during the massage to enhance deep relaxation and renewal. They guests are serenaded with the soothing, vibrational sounds of a singing bowl. Their experience then continues with a combination of gentle therapeutic Shiatsu bodywork and Chinese massage techniques, followed by traditional Thai massage techniques using deep pressure, flowing movements, and gentle stretches. The Asian Trinity Signature Massage is priced at THB 5,300 (Dhs527) net per person for a 90-minute session.
      See Bangkok’s spiritual side
      Be transported by riverboat during a tour of centuries-old sites of worship and the revered Golden Mount during the Bangkok Temples by Baht experience. During the stay, guests can also participate in the Buddha Blessings activity for a rare chance to experience the spiritual energy of Wat Arun, one of Thailand’s most magnificent temples. By turning back the clock, a visit to Baan Bu, will take guests back to the early-1800s Bronze Age. They can walk through narrow alleyways in a riverside village to find a bronze workshop where craftsmen in protective balaclavas hammer away over blazing fires, using skills passed on through generations to create stunning handmade bronze bowls.
      The rates for staying start at THB13,600 per night (Dhs1,349) so, to make a booking, visit peninsula.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      An editor-approved Jaipur guide: From majestic stays to magical heritage sites

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      Jaipur holds an abundance of colour, beauty, and history. From majestic stays to magical heritage sites, revel in the sights and sounds of the charming pink city.
      Scroll through the gallery for an editor-approved travel guide to Jaipur.
      THE STAYS
      VILLA PALLADIO JAIPUR

      Decked in varied hues of red, Villa Palladio Jaipur is a striking structure that marries rococo exuberance with the decadence of the maharajas in a uniquely joyful style, both equally at home in Italy as it is in India. Its painted verandas and scalloped arches open onto lush Mughal gardens of red roses, strict geometries and central water fountains. Canopied beds, embroidered bedsheets, inlaid marble floors and hand-carved marble latticed screens in the nine uniquely decorated rooms and suites further enhance the sense of exquisite craftsmanship (the entirety of VP furnishing was fabricated bespoke in Jaipur). Hidden behind hedges of blossoming hibiscus is a Mughal arched pool house accented with candy striped sunbeds.
      Wellness amenities include a spa offering purifying, nourishing and grounding rituals, a garden-side meditation and yoga room alongside a scarlet library, a boutique stocking holiday essentials and designer threads, as well as a stable of six Marwari horses. From breakfast served on the delicately painted floral balcony, snacks served in the striped Pool House to a lavish lunch and dinner at the charming Garden Verandah overlooking landscaped gardens, dining at Villa Palladio is a feast for the senses. The menu, perfected over several months by the Italian-Swiss owner Barbara Miolini, champions the robust flavors of southern Italy and, of course, a selection of subtly spiced Rajasthani classics.
      For reservations, visit villa-palladio-jaipur.com
      THE JOHRI

      A 19th-century home restoration in the midst of Old Town Jaipur that captures the elegance of a bygone era for a new generation of travellers. Nestled in the heart of Jaipur’s iconic jewellers’ bazaar, The Johri tastefully masters old-world charm featuring a well-curated mix of antique furnitures, textiles and art – a haven of relaxed splendour for design and culture enthusiasts. It houses five spacious suites overlooking a traditional charming inner courtyard named after precious gemstones: Manek, Neelam, Sona, Panna and Moti.
      For reservations, visit thejohrijaipur.com
      TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE

      If only the Rambagh Palace’s old walls could talk, it would tell stories from its royal past. From 1835 until today, it continues to play the role of a gracious host to prominent figures and illustrious guests. Through the years, the palace has retained its splendour, extravagantly decorated with elaborate detailings and lattice-work, sandstone balustrades, cuplos and cenotaphs.
      For reservations, visit tajhotels.com
      LEELA PALACE JAIPUR

      Located in a peaceful area away from the buzz of the city, The Leela Palace Jaipur wows with true Indian luxury. Can’t-miss quintessential experiences include Rajasthani folk dances, expeditions to the elephant village, holistic spa treatments, cycle tours of the sprawling garden and more.
      For reservations, visit theleela.com
      ANOPURA

      Backdropped by the Aravalli mountains, Anopura is a charming stay in Jaipur’s countryside. Nestled in an estate garden and flowering meadows, the property is surrounded with pomegranate and frangipani trees perfect for a slower pace for your holiday. Its serene minimalist interiors takes on modern Jaipur influences, while the corners of Anopura are individually decked with antiques, art and fabrics sourced across Rajasthan.
      For reservations, visit anopura.com
      THE SIGHTS & SPOTS
      A visit to Jaipur is not complete without stepping foot inside majestic historic landmarks such as Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a five-story extraordinary architectural marvel with a beguiling facade, and The City Palace.

      Built in the 17th Century, The City Palace located in Old Jaipur is home to smaller structures like the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum.

      Within The City Palace Museum lies Baradari where royal history meets fine dining – a culinary destination serving contemporary dishes with local flavours.
      Photo: Henry Wilson
      For smaller bites and sips, Bar Palladio is a cool hangout spot located with Narain Niwas Palace Hotel that serves Italian cuisine and beverages. The restaurant and lounge, designed by Dutch designer Marie-Anne Oudejans, is a maximalist wonderland with wandering peacocks and lush gardens.
      Amrapali Museum is home to rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, decorative crafts and exquisite jewellery. Founded in the 80s by Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera, the displays pay homage to India’s insurmountable craftsmanship that have shaped India’s jewellery narrative.

      For those looking to bring home a piece of Jaipur, Parampara is a multi-brand concept store with a made-in-India verve – a shopping haven with a kaleidoscopic of local threads with an international flair.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      April’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – Download Now
      Images: Supplied More

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      12 famous A-listers you didn’t know had homes in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      With endless sun all year round, amazing dining establishments, a plethora of activities and more, it’s easy to see why Dubai is such a popular place for so many to live.
      In particular, it’s a place where quite a few celebrities have opted to call home or their second home, owning various properties in the emirate, some of which are incredibly luxurious.
      With that, here’s some A-listers you may not have known had homes in Dubai.

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

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      Indian Billionaire’s son to potentially have his wedding in Abu Dhabi

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      In a land of lavish weddings, the Indian Billionaire Mukesh Ambani recently hosted a three-day pre-wedding function, with the latest news of wedding bells now ringing in Abu Dhabi.
      While Anant Ambani and Radhika Radhika will reportedly tie the knot in London. It is said that Stoke Park estate has already been booked for one of the functions.

      Now, as per another report, it is said that the Ambani’s Sangeet ceremony will take place in Abu Dhabi. However, there’s no official announcement on the same as of yet.
      With more details to be released yet, stay tuned on what’s next on the roster of events and A-listers to be invited to perform.
      Spotted in Dubai
      The couple was also recently spotted shopping in Dubai, a video of which was shared on social media. He arrived at the popular Dubai Mall in the UAE city in an orange Rolls Royce Cullinan Black Badge and had a tight security cover.
      More details were revealed as per an auto enthusiast on the internet who said there was a fleet of 20 escort vehicles in Ambani’s convoy that included Cadillac Escalades, GMC Yukon Denalis, and Chevrolet Suburbans.
      Pre-wedding function
      This 3-day pre-wedding extravaganza, was put together to celebrate the joyous union of the Ambani’s and Merchant.
      Anant is the son of billionaire tycoon Mukesh Ambani, the richest man in Asia. No expense was spared, however, this is only just the beginning as the wedding is set to take place in July 2024.
      From special performances by Rihanna, Akon and the first Indian singer to perform at Coachella, Diljit Dosanjh, this star-studded affair created a buzz unlike any other.
      As one of the most talked about pre-wedding galores, several highly-reputed Arab businessmen and government members attended the wedding in Jamnagar.
      Stay tuned for more wedding updates to follow.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @_ishaambanipiramal More

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      National Lovers Day: 12 of the best florists in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      58 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGES
      Every year, April 23, is marked as National Lovers Day and blooms are the most natural way to make your special someone feel loved.
      As bouquets have the power to make any moment memorable, finding the right arrangement can definitely put a smile on your loved ones’ face. With a myriad of luxurious florists in the UAE, it’s important to find the boutiques with quality bouquets.
      Be it lilies or tulips, theres a wide variety of flowers to suit the receiver’s tastebuds, all with a simple click of a button.
      Swipe through our guide of the very best florists in the UAE bringing fresh flowers and bespoke floral arrangements right to your doorstep.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @vitaliia  More

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      Desk Detox: This Dubai-based expert shares why it’s important to switch off after work

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      Life

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      Words by Dr Gurveen Ranger, Clinical Psychologist, Adult Specialist at Sage Clinics
      We are currently living in an era where constant connectivity is the norm.
      In a lifestyle dominated by smartphones, smart watches, tablets, and coupled with the increase in remote working since the pandemic, many of us will find ourselves blurring the boundaries between work and home life.
      Lack of work/life balance can also lead to disturbed sleep, especially if you are checking emails just before bed, and lower our mood. If we are find ourselves unable to ‘switch off’ after work, we are less present in our personal lives, and therefore may not experience as much enjoyment from activities as we once did and our relationships are likely to also suffer.

      Not only does this impact our quality of life, but also has the opposite impact to what we may expect when it comes to how productive and efficient we are. In this article, we will look at why we struggle to disconnect, the consequences of this and most importantly – how do we do a desk detox?
      Here are a few tips to ease the process:
      Set clear goals
      Ask yourself, do I need a desk detox? How much work am I doing outside of hours? Why? Is doing this extra work making me feel any more on top of things? Based on your answer to these questions, set clear goals to work on – e.g., is it reducing screen time? Is it protected work times? Is a conversation with employers needed?
      Be realistic
      I appreciate that for many, it may be unrealistic to expect no work outside of work hours. If this is the case for you (i.e., there are likely serious consequences of not keeping an eye on things) then setting boundaries for how much time you spend working outside of hours can be helpful. E.g., protecting time every couple of hours or so to look at emails, and engaging in other things outside of these times. This can help reduce the constant triggering of ‘threat state’ every few minutes.
      Let people know
      Letting people know when you are contactable vs when you are not can help manage feelings of guilt that may arise when disconnecting. Block out time in your diaries, set “do not disturb’ notifications on when appropriate, and let colleagues know the boundaries about what constitutes emergency contact. This can also be healthy modelling for colleagues and juniors.
      Allocate tech-free zones
      Protect time in your after-work schedule which doesn’t involve technology. If you work from home, is there a space where you work which doesn’t interfere with your daily home space? If not, can you hide away your work equipment when you log off? Out of sight, out of mind!
      Increase offline activities
      See if you can come up with some after work activities that don’t involve technology, thus reducing the pull into constant checking of work-related material. Walks, reading, socializing can all be great ways to enhance quality of life and connect with your value systems outside of the professional sphere.
      Use digital wellbeing tools
      Did you know most smartphones allow you to set limits on how much you use certain apps? You could also put ‘do not disturb’ mode on or turn off notifications when you are doing other things. Another tool many I have worked with find helpful is to remove things like email apps from easy access – they can be hidden in a digital folder on your home screen which means you have more of a chance to break the habitual cycle of opening the app every time you are on your phone – again out of sight out of mind.
      Reminder – this isn’t about being completely tech free or never doing anything for work outside of work time, as let’s be honest that isn’t realistic in today’s world or desirable some industries and roles. Instead, aim for balance – take a step back, protect downtime, use smartphones in psychologically smarter ways to enhance your wellbeing and social relationships. Not only will this likely improve your quality of life, but your productivity and job satisfaction levels too. You could start today, even with something small and see how these transforms over time!
      You can find out more about Dr Gurveen Ranger and the team at Sage Clinics: here. For more information about the services Sage Clinics offers or to book an appointment visit sage-clinics.com
      – 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