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    Enjoy some under-palm relaxing at these luxe resorts in Mexico

    Lifestyle

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    For some serious downtown, book your escape to Mexico ASAP.
    La Valise Tulum

    La Valise is inspired by the natural beauty of the Tulum jungle. Palapa ceilings, stripped wood furniture, blonde and azure hues and Yutucan tex- tiles all combine to make this all you could dream of in a Mexican escape. Palm-lined sandy paths connect each area of the tiny nine-roomed resort. There’s no spa, but treatments are provided in-room and the restaurant is an exotic al fresco affair serving alternative takes on familiar Mexican classics.
    For more information visit lavalisetulum.com
    Viceroy Riviera Maya

    With 41 suites this adult-only, low-rise escapee is as peaceful as it comes. Pack light so you can make use of the kit on site as the hotel loans guests sombreros, books and snorkelling gear. For a true touch of luxe, book a thatched Royal Villa for your own butler, pool, hammock, huge soaking tub and indoor-outdoor showers.
    For more information visit royhotelsandresorts.com
    What to pack

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    Want to plan for NYE? Here’s 20 spectacular places to book in Dubai

    Looking to ring in 2023 in style? We’ve got you sorted.
    From Dubai’s breathtaking skyline views to an array of delectable dishes, this emirate is never short of venues to celebrate the occasion.
    With New Year’s Eve around the corner, it’s best to make your plans in advance and we’re here to narrow down all the potential venues to book ASAP.
    So, whether an intimate dinner with your loved ones or an all-out sophisticated fiesta, there is a myriad of options to ensure you make this moment a memorable one.
    However you wish to celebrate, we’re here to help you with a selection of sought-after venues that are preparing to ensure no stone is left unturned.
    PLAYA

    This iconic Peruvian venue will ensure a one-of-a-kind celebration by the beach. With exquisite signature cocktails and beautiful fireworks, guests can experience vibrant beats from DJ Miriam, Jenny & Dany Srouji with the famous mentalist Danny Blue who will conduct bedazzling mind games. The highlight of the evening will be an extravagant after-party from 2am until the early hours of the morning at Al Ittihad Park Monorail Station. This beach club will offer three packages with a minimum spend of Dhs1,200 at the restaurant, Dhs1,600 at the beach club and Dhs2,000 front row to witness Dubai’s Fireworks.
    For more information visit playadxb.com
    Sucre

    Take a trip to Argentina with Sucre’s charming interiors and delicious menu. Usher the new year with a black-tie gala as you enjoy festive meals including traditional favorites complete with all the trimmings for the perfect Night at Buenos Aires at Sucre. The fiesta will begin with a delicious dinner created by masterful Chef Fernando Trocca which comes as a bountiful spread of shared plates to be passed around the festive table amongst groups of friends and families with a minimum spend of Dhs800 per person from 7pm onwards. The evening will feature live entertainment and live performances with a Latin 6-piece band and resident DJ in the heart of DIFC.
    For more information visit surcredubai.com
    NYX at Gaia

    Gaia will host a magnificent NYX Gala, a glamorous red-carpet event to ring in the new year. NYX will take over Gaia’s radiant interiors, the entire venue will be transformed to reveal the dark red glamour and enigmatic ambience of the sophisticated speakeasy hidden downstairs. With a minimum spend of Dhs1,500, guests can dine from 8 pm onwards with a chic and sophisticated dress code. This inviting venue is located in Gate Village 4, in DIFC.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
    Piatti By The Beach

    Featuring an exquisite dining experience under the stars, accompanied by an exhilarating live DJ performance and glittering fireworks, guests are invited to join the memorable festivities and welcome the new year in style. The restaurant serves an indulgent selection Gnocchi with Lobster and King Crab Ragout, Beef Tenderloin and more. The indoor seating is priced at Dhs2,200 per person and outdoor is priced at Dhs2,700 inclusive of food, water, soft drinks and mocktails from 8pm to 3am at Raffles, The Palm.
    For more information visit rafflesthepalmdubai.com
    Kyma Beach

    To make it a night to remember, guests can experience the luxurious beachside experience at this newly opening venue situated in the heart of Palm West Beach. For a special night, guests can enjoy live entertainment with singers, musicians and DJ playing the grooviest hits. The dishes range from king crab salad to 24 karat chocolate millfeuille which are all crafted to perfection. The packages start at Dhs2,500 per person from 8pm onwards, inclusive of a sharing set menu and selected beverages.
    For more information visit kymabeach.ae
    Scalini

    This Italian haven invites guests to welcome 2023 with a celebration of one of the quitenseential ingredients in Italian cusine, the pomodoro. The restaurant pays humble homage to this precious ingredient by inviting diners to indulge in an exquisite menu inspired by traditional Neapolitan recipes. With no minimum spend guests can indulge in a feast with a variety of dishes at the Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah.
    For more information visit scalini-dubai.com
    Koko Bay

    Celebrate by the beach with scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this bohemian restaurant promises you a good time. The packages start from Dhs1,495 for soft beverages, Dhs1,995 for premium beverages and bubbly and Dhs495 for kids below nine years. Guests can also book a private cabana for Dhs10,000 for four guests.
    For more information visit kokobay.com
    Katsuya

    Experience a night of great Japanese cuisine, fire dancers, live music and mesmerizing views of the Burj Khalifa’s famous fireworks display at HYDE Hotel in Business bay. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable evening with friends and family in 2023 at this fine-dining venue starting at Dhs950 for indoor searing and Dhs1,450 for outdoor seating inclusive of house beverages from 8am to 12am.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    ONZE

    Kick-off the new year in an iconic setting at ONZE, the newly opened Nikkei restaurant, situated at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. Blending the cultures and cuisines of Japan and Peru, ONZE will hit the high notes for the start of 2023. Indulge in ONZE’s menu filled with delectable starters, mains and desserts including freshly prepared dishes from the restaurant’s crudo bar. The packages start at Dhs1,500 for a minimum spend per person with special packages available for champagnes and spirits from 8pm to 3am.
    For more information visit onzerestaurant.com
    Shanghai Me

    Shanghai Me will be hosting an auspicious golden celebration. With stunning décor, the sophisticated restaurant will be transformed into a golden paradise for guests to revel. 8pm onwards, diners can enjoy a specially curated six-course menu of East-Asian delicacies blended with the restaurant’s traditions. To further fuel excitement, fun & laughter and promising a vivacious end to the year, dazzling guests are invited to dance the night away at Bund. Hidden behind the mirrored panellings at Shanghai Me, this under-the-radar speakeasy oozes old-world glamour, with its luxe interiors and sleek bar. The minimum spend will be notified upon booking and the festivities will take place from 8pm to 3am at Podium Level, Gate Village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    SUSHISAMBA

    Get ready for the party of the year. For one night only, SUSHISAMBA will turn white with extravagant décor for the memorable occasion, as the city prepares to welcome 2023 in style with a Sambazonia-themed party. Guests are encouraged to dress in all white and can expect to embark on a multi-dimensional journey, right in the centre of Dubai whilst overlooking 360-degree views of the city’s iconic fireworks with a minimum spend of Dhs3,000 per person from 9pm until late,
    For more information visit sushisamba.com
    DREAM

    For a theatrical evening to bring in the new year, the enchanting dinner and show venue, DREAM Dubai is set to transport guests to a fairy tale world. The line-up will feature mesmerising new festive-themed shows to sweep you off your feet. The dynamic dancers will dazzle viewers with energetic dance sequences in tune with the festive soundtrack and musical performances. The glittery headpieces and glam costumes add to the intrigue of the special NYE show-stopping performances and a party from 8pm until late with a minimum spend starting at Dhs4,000 per person.
    For more information visit dreamdxb.com
    Ergo

    Book a night at Ergo for the aptly themed Pretense New Year’s Eve party, where everything is not quite as it seems. Entertainment for the night will feature mysterious elements reminiscent of Venetian masquerades, shadow dancers, grand decor, and secret rendezvouses, all along with a disruptive playlist. Guests can enjoy a night of free-flowing Ergo cocktails, bubbly, and premium house beverages, along with select bites from the borderless Mediterranean menu. The energetic vibe of the bar area spills out into the urban terrace space with views of the bustling Downtown District to end the night. With a minimum spend of Dhs1,500 per person from the NYE à la carte menu, guests can spend the evening from 7pm until late.
    For more information visit ergodubai.com
    LPM

    To ring in the new year this Parisian haven is hosting a New Year’s Eve special with an evening inspired by La Folie Douce, the well-known after-ski parties in the French Alps. Guests will be able to enjoy the à la carte menu with a minimum spend of Dhs1,200 excluding drinks. The evening will begin from 6pm and will stay open until late for everyone to celebrate. The restaurant is located at Gate Village 8, DIFC.
    For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
    Fi’lia

    To match the splendid views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks, Fi’lia welcomes in the New Year with its stunning setting and free-flowing beverages to toast to 2023. World-class culinary delights created as an ode to hearty Italian dishes await on the special New Year’s menu. From lemon risotto to steak tartare guests can indulge in a splendour of flavours throughout the evening through a four-course family style set menu from 7pm to 9pm with the price at Dhs599 per person for indoors and Dhs750 per person for outdoors without beverages and from 9:30pm until late for Dhs1,800 for indoors, Dhs1,999 for window, Dhs2,500 for outdoor and Dhs2,700 for outdoor window with three hours of free-flowing beverages. The evening is filled with exciting entertainment activities. A renowned and breathtaking ensemble of masquerade dancers and a live jazz band will serenade the guests with exciting performances at SLS hotel and residences.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Alaya

    Make your New Year’s Eve a joyous one at DIFC’s latest Middle Eastern hotspot. For a glamorous affiar, guests can indulge in an exquisite selection of Mediterranean classics and an abundance of fragrant herbs and spices that The East and West bring together, Alaya’s exceptional menu translates the influences of the rich culinary landscape with a contemporary approach. Alongside delectable dishes, guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and celebratory bubbles. At the stroke of midnight, the festivities continue at the glamorous, Bedouin-inspired speakeasy, LY-LA. Tucked away behind a concealed door beneath the restaurant Minimum spend is mentioned on booking and the celebrations take place from 7pm to 3pm in Gate Village, Building 4, DIFC.
    For more information visit alaya-dubai.com
    Chic Nonna

    This sophisticated fine-dining restaurant will offer a tailor-made a la carte menu at the restaurant Salotto and the terrace. A Studio 54-inspired evening, ‘Le Freak C’est Chic” will dress the lounge up in disco and sparkles. Guests are expected to deck themselves out as their most glamorous selves to celebrate the new year in style. Groovy vibes will be articulated through the lavish décor that will be employed, transforming Salotto into a classy, speakeasy-style hotspot and transporting guests into the glam era of discothèque. Toast to new beginnings with delectable dining and exceptional entertainment at this osteria. Family-friendly dinner reservations are available at Chic Nonna’s main dining area and require an advanced payment of the minimum spend with prices starting at Dhs1,200
    For more information visit chicnonna.com
    The Nice Guy

    Guests can spend their evening at the newly opened patio and terrace, the main dining area, or an intimate lounge, all of which pay homage to the decadent era of Mafia bars and restaurants. The terrace packages start at Dhs2,000 basic for aparkling and DHs3,000 Premium for bubbles from 8pm to midnight and 12pm to 3am for a la carte drinks with live entertainment. The main dining area packages start at Dhs2,000 basic for sparkling and Dhs3,000 premium for bubbles from 11:30 p.m. onwards. A minimum spend is required per table for drinks only per table from 11pm until closing with walk-ins at Dhs500 at the entrance, and then a la carte drinks at the main dining area.
    For more information visit hwoodgroup.com
    Cove Beach

    For an exclusive gala dinner amid the beach, this enticing venue is sure to make the evening special. There’s a choice of two different experiences to bid adieu to 2022 at Cove Beach. Guests can either indulge in an exquisite gala dinner boasting an extravagant selection of culinary delicacies such as Wagyu Ribeye and Grilled Lobster while enjoying live music from a star-studded five-piece band priced at Dhs1,200 per person or party the night away at the buzzing beach club NYE party, in collaboration with LUV Events, showcasing a brilliant line-up of DJ’s including DJ Scottie-B, DJ Devon Kosoko, DJ Mitchel and DJ Sir Taz priced at Dhs699 per persona at Caesars Palace Hotel.
    For more information visit caesars.com
    Basko

    Time to celebrate and bring in the New Year at Basko with live music andretro disco DJ thereafter. 360 paparazzi waiting, guests can expect a glamorous entrance into the New Year at the one and only Basko Dubai and stunning views of Burj Khalifa fireworks. The first seating packages don’t require any minimum spend and take place from 7pm to 9pm The packages for outdoors are priced at Dhs1,200 per person and indoor is Dhs990 per person from 9pm to 4am for the second seating and it is located in Business Bay. For the after-party celebrations, guests can head to the hidden speakeasy, Suave.
    For more information visit baskorestaurant.com
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    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Emirates Woman December 2020 cover shoot More

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    In pics: Hande Erçel shares snippets of her recent trip to Paris

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Bonjour Paris! Turkish actress Hande Erçel shared a series of photos on her Instagram feed this week.
    From mirror selfies to portraits with her sister Gamze Erçel, the duo is seen exploring the city of love in their best outfits as they go on the ultimate girl’s trip.
    Whether indulging in some hot chocolate or shopping at their most-loved stores, the duo’s trip looked beyond exciting. No trip is complete without some retail therapy, as the sisters love wearing their favourite outfits, they stop for a mid-break to refresh their wardrobe with the best pieces that Paris has to offer.
    The other Erçel sister shared a behind-the-scenes of their glamourous trip, during which they spent time taking in the picturesque city and in her caption said, “Our holiday summary, In the fourth photo Hande took my picture, but I’m not there.”
    To add some humor, the famous actress shared her snippets with the caption, “My sister was a ghost the entire holiday,” as she barely highlighted her in the pictures.
    Swipe through the gallery to see the best shots:

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    Images: Instagram @handemiyy  & @gamze_ercel More

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    10 wanderlust-inspired gifts for the globetrotter in your life

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    Since a cure for wanderlust doesn’t exist, finding the right gifts for those a love to travel is the perfect option.
    With the holiday season in full swing, finding keepsakes for the explorer has never been easier.
    From yoga mats to travel-fuelled books, here’s one more opportunity to brighten up the year to keep the wanderer at heart enlightened throughout the year.
    To save you the legwork, Emirates Woman has created the ultimate wanderlust-inspired gift guide to ensure every globe trotter is inspired this season.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Meet the female ‘SuperAgents’ of the UAE’s real estate

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    Over the last few years, Dubai has cemented itself as a hub for business, leisure and tourism which, in turn, has led to many moving to the emirate to set up homes.
    No longer can Dubai be seen as just simply a transient city, more and more people are making it a permanent base, which has seen a rise in property investment.
    But for those new to the UAE or new homeseekers in general, knowing where to start to look can be a daunting task. However, one such platform that is a go-to for finding a forever home – or even renting – in Dubai is Property Finder.
    In recent data by the PropTech company, it was found that one of the biggest priorities for buyers in the UAE was trust due to experiences with unreliable agents, false listings, late responses and more.
    Thus, this has led PropertyFinder to launch its ‘SuperAgent’ category. But, what exactly is a SuperAgent? Well, according to the website, it’s a “super-qualified agent who will provide you with an easy and hassle-free home-seeking journey… always looking to provide the best quality property listing and respond faster than any other agents to the home seeker’s needs”.
    The ranking by PropertyFinder is entirely data-driven, which is based on the individual agent’s performance, making it easy for buyers to discover exactly which SuperAgent will match their criteria.
    With over 5,500 available on PropertyFinder, utilising this tool of SuperAgent really does help homeseekers decipher who the best of the best is.
    Given that here at Emirates Woman we love to champion the incredible women in this region, we decided to take a deep dive into some of the best female SuperAgents on PropertyFinder specialising in luxe properties across the emirate.

    For more information visit propertyfinder.ae/en/find-agent or download Property Finder app onIOS or Google Play
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    In pics: Etihad’s much-loved A380 fleet makes a return in 2023

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    After a steep surge in demand, UAE’s national carrier, Etihad Airways is set to reintroduce its A380 fleets.
    Starting in 2023, four super-jumbos A380s will operate between Abu Dhabi and London with a host of new
    This expansive double-decker aircraft will feature nine First apartments, 80 Business Studios and 405 Economy smart seats. Other onboard amenities in the First class section include a large leather lounge, a 24” swiveling LCD TV monitor, a personal vanity and a fully-flat bed for utmost comfort.
    For First and Business class passengers to take a break from their seats, they will have access to a fully-served lounge at the lobby which includes leather sofas, refreshments, a large TV accompanied by a USB connection to ensure all devices remain charged throughout the time.
    His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, of Etihad Aviation Group, said, “It is wonderful to announce the return of this splendid aircraft.”
    “The A380’s reintroduction provides a further boost to Etihad’s capacity into the key UK market, with a knock-on effect for the wider GCC and Indian subcontinent that will bring more visitors to the city of Abu Dhabi,” he conveyed.
    For a sneak peek inside the new fleet, swipe through the gallery.

    This new fleet in 2023 will operate to London Heathrow and launch in other new destinations and increase frequencies to existing routes.
    For more information visit etihad.com
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    Why you need to book this pool day in Dubai ASAP

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: There’s nothing better than a relaxing day by the pool as the weather cools down.
    For the ultimate relaxation this season, Coco Lounge is set to welcome tourists and residents with its highly sought-after deal this season.
    To unwind visitors can recline on a lounger and soak up the sun by day and rejuvenate by the pool at Dhs99, which is fully redeemable on food and beverages.
    The venue is complemented by a delectable poolside menu, that combines Latin American and Nikkei Japanese fusion cuisine with classic cocktails to sip on throughout the day. With a myriad of options varying from bite-size burritos to maki rolls, there’s enough for everyone to delight in.

    Everyone can enjoy this laidback day of blissful relaxation by catching up with their friends in the private cabanas, poolside chairs or sofas, while being looked after by the team of exceptional staff.
    With a new-age approach to liquid concoctions, guests can indulge in a plethora of beverages from day to night. To kick up the pace, this poolside venue plays chill lounge hits throughout the day to experience the outdoors at its best.

    Located in Media One Hotel on the 8th floor, pool access is open from 10am to 7pm with F&B available at Coco Lounge from 10am to 11pm.
    To make a booking or for more information visit mediaonehotel.com
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    Sheikh Mohammed gives Dubai’s SushiSamba another royal stamp of approval

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    The UAE’s royals most definitely know where to dine in Dubai.
    Today, Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai paid a visit to one of the emirate’s most popular hotspots, SushiSamba.
    With not just one but two royal visits this year, this restaurant continues to stay on top of Dubai’s unending list of fine-dining havens this year. After Sheikh Hamdan visited the restaurant, Sheikh Mohammed who is regularly seen at the city’s various F&B spots followed to try the food out for himself today.
    The page even shared a photo on their Instagram of Sheikh Mohammed posing with the team and captioned it, “It was an honour to welcome HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for lunch today.”

    The venue is a must-visit for visitors and residents in the UAE with its glistening views of Dubai’s skyline and its multifaceted menu which seamlessly combines Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian influences. With evocative interiors and a tropical ambience, the restaurant brings an artful mix of culinary delights such as ceviche, tempura, Brazilian churrasco and more, making it a memorable experience for all, after already establishing itself in London and Las Vegas.

    Other A-listers earlier this year were spotted at this fine-dining haven. The famous tennis player Roger Federer visited the restaurant in October with the renowned actor Martin Lawrence who was seen posing with the Director of Culinary, Chef Kyungsoo Moon.

    Shortly after the restaurant opened and made a mark for itself in Dubai this year, Fazza thought it fit to host one of his most famous friends at the restaurant. The emirate’s Crown Prince was seen visiting the hotspot with famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this year and the restaurant’s team described it as an “honour” to welcome this Dubai royal and even shared a photo from his visit on their feed, as the duo enjoyed all the delectable dishes with the rest of the entourage.
    Located on the 51st floor of The St. Regis, The Palm, this fine-dining spot should be added to your celebrity-approved places to visit next.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @sushisambadubai More