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    6 must-visit destinations in the MENA region

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Now we’re in the midst of summer, many are searching for a special getaway to be able to escape from it all.
    Luckily for us based in the UAE, we have a plethora of options right on our doorstep and many others just a short flight away, still within the MENA region.
    While there are different needs for different individuals, Raddison Hotels has something for everyone with an array of resorts in different locations close to home and slightly further afield.
    Looking for an adrenaline-fuelled fun time with family? Head to Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island. Searching for balmy weather and sapphire blue waters? The Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa is calling. Are you an inquisitive individual seeking to meet other like-minded creatives? Radisson Blu Resort, Taghazout Bay Surf Village is the place for you.
    Below, Emirates Woman shares six areas in the MENA region you need to add to your must-visit list.
    Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

    The Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island is the ideal escape for those who love adventure-filled holidays. With an endless list of activities including diving, kayaking, parasailing, abseiling, hiking, mountain biking, golf and access to the world’s longest zip line, the Jais Flight, you’re spoilt for choice at this resort. The hotel also has direct access to the beach with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and outdoor pools, as well as a designated kid’s pool and play area for days, when you need a bit of relaxation. There’s also a range of on-site restaurants offering an exceptional dining experience for all ages.
    Egypt

    Escape to the coastline of the Red Sea at the Radisson Blu Resort, El Quseir in Egypt.  offers total relaxation on your beach getaway in Egypt. The peaceful getaway features clear waters, pristine beaches and architecture from the Ottoman era. It’s the ideal spot for those who want a balance between relaxation and a cultural escape with the Old Town and El Quseir Fort not far from the resort.
    Mauritius

    Just a six-hour flight from the UAE, Mauritius is known for its picturesque scenery and panoramic coastline. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a refreshing laidback beach holiday. The Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa offers a superior tropical getaway as guests escape in the company of breathtaking vistas and serene coastlines on the east of the island. Just a short journey north you’ll also find the Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa, located in the district of Riviere Du Rempart.
    Saudi Arabia

    Still yet to tick Saudi Arabia off your list? With no COVID-19 restrictions in place, take a short three-hour flight to the Kingdom’s capital, Riyadh. Opt to stay at the newly opened and uber-luxe Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort nestled in a mesmerizing landscape of golden sand dunes. Just 98 kilometres from the Saudi Arabian capital, it gives guests the opportunity to escape to the Kingdom’s desert, whilst being in close proximity to the city. The resort overlooks the spectacular Nofa Wildlife Park, home to over 700 animals, where guests can experience a unique African safari. There’s also an equestrian resort and an 18-hole golf course. The resort has two outdoor swimming pools, including a separate swimming pool for female guests and there is a special kids’ club area.
    Morocco

    Discover the wonders of Morocco this summer in the comfort of one of the many Raddison resorts across the country. The Radisson Blu Resort, Taghazout Bay Surf Village is a known hotspot for creatives; Radisson Blu Resort, Al Hoceima, located in the northeast of Morocco, is a secluded spot which is largely untouched; Radisson Blu Resort, Sadia Beach is situated amongst the sapphire blue waters of coastal town Saïdia; take your pick. There’s also Radisson Blu Resort, Sadia Garden which is set to open very soon.
    Dubai, UAE

    Travelling or business or leisure, or if you’re looking for the ideal staycation, the new Radisson Resort Dubai Palm Jumeirah is the place to go. Situated right on Palm West Beach, the resort has its own private beach, luxe pool with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, exceptional on-site dining, a luxurious spa, a kids’ club and more.
    For more information about all of the resorts and more visit radissonhotels.com/en-us/experience/resorts/middle-east-africa. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    This Dubai hotspot embodies beachside luxury like no other

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    We’re reaching the halfway point of the UAE summer thankfully, but there’s still a couple of months left of scorching temperatures.
    To help pass the time in style, this Dubai hotspot is the ideal place to beat the heat.
    Exuding opulence and luxury, Twiggy by La Cantine instantly transports you to the Côte d’Azur in the heart of the Mediterranean all day, every day.
    With Provence-inspired decor with pastel and cream hues and touches of rattan, soak up the sun in style on one of the beach club’s many loungers or for those who prefer more privacy, opt for one of the six cabanas at Twiggy.
    Perfect for bigger groups, the cabanas – Coco Cabana, Bardot Cabana and Grace Cabana – comfortably seat six to 12 people, where you can enjoy the day, lounging, swimming, chatting and indulging in the finest cuisine all day, until the sun sets.

    Open until 2am daily, bask in the sun at the beach club, located at the foot of the Park Hyatt Dubai Lagoon, in the company of an upbeat soundtrack during the day and dine out at the restaurant, which has gone indoors for summer, at night.
    With a menu swinging between Ibiza, Saint-Tropez, Cassis and Formentera via Okinawa, Twiggy is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious dishes for lunch and dinner, all of which are made from the freshest ingredients.
    Favourite summer dishes from the menu curated by Chef Fabio Luz include classic burrata, refreshing lentil salad, seabass fillet, king crab avocado and many more.
    So, whether you’re looking to soak up the sun poolside or indulge in a decadent dining experience, Twiggy is the perfect place to spend the rest of the hot summer months.
    For more information visit twiggy.ae. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    This German luxury brand is making its mark in the Middle East

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    German luxury kitchen appliances brand Gaggenau is making its mark in the Middle East but, at the hands of brand expert Patricia Anglade, it has transformed into a high-end creative lifestyle brand.
    How do you take a leading luxury brand for professional-grade home appliances, and transform it into a high-end creative lifestyle brand? One individual is a master in this field.
    Patricia Anglade, an expert in branding and brand manager of German luxury kitchen appliances brand Gaggenau, found the right strategy and execution to transform the label.
    As you can imagine it takes time to establish a brand in a new market and to understand the nuanced nature of the new lands a brand is venturing into. However, that’s not the case of Gaggenau. The growth and reach of the brand has been exponential, and this is largely in part due to Anglade and her exceptional brand team. They have understood the market (and the assignment) and they have delivered.

    First established in 1683, Gaggenau is a brand with an extensive history and a remarkable legacy. Taking this rich heritage, the team have repositioned this as a high-end creative lifestyle brand for the region. Recognized for its elegant design and robust craftsmanship, the team tapped into these aspects of the brand’s essence and are brandishing Gaggenau’s artistic flair.
    This was exemplified at Gaggenau’s recent Blank Canvas Dining experience in Dubai. Anglade and her team orchestrated what was a masterpiece in itself, in which they collaborated with renowned figures, chef Hadrien Villeudieu and artist Kaveh Ahangar, to reinforce this new brand position.
    Villeudieu and Ahangar put on a delectable display that saw art tantalise taste buds, as well as ignite awe in the guests’ eyes. Aptly titled ‘An Exploration of Inspiration’, the enchanting evening was masterfully choreographed. With each course came a complementary piece of art from the big picture, so that with each new bite, a bite-sized piece of art was revealed.

    This unique event served as a statement of the brand’s outstanding culinary capabilities as a high-end appliance, and its new artistic and creative direction.
    This type of unexpected, innovative approach to brand building is a key component to the success of any brand. What Anglade has done, and is doing, is future-proofing the heritage brand with style – her journey is inspiring and is also definitely one to watch.
    For more information visit gaggenau.com/ae.
    July/August’s – ‘The Summer Escape Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    5 reasons why this luxe Dubai resort is the place to be this summer

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: While many will be escaping Dubai this summer, let’s not forget there are a plethora of places right here in the emirate where you can cool down and soak up the sun.
    One such hotspot is Caesars Palace Dubai located in the heart of Bluewaters Island. It’s the ideal place to spend the summer months, perfect for family getaways, couples retreats or a relaxing daycation.
    With an array of multi-cuisine dining options, two beach clubs and a luxury spa, the Emirates Woman editors are here to tell you exactly why a stay at Caesars Palace Dubai is a must-do this summer.
    Relax & refresh
    Caesars Palace Dubai makes for the ultimate Dubai beach stay. Right now when you book a Beach Club room at the resort for two nights, you’ll receive daily complimentary access from 5pm to 7pm to Venus Beach Club, a spot inspired by the Amalfi Coast, with free-flowing drinks plus a Dhs300 spa voucher per stay.
    The ultimate beach stay

    Caesars Palace Dubai makes for the ultimate Dubai beach stay. Right now when you book a Beach Club room at the resort for two nights you’ll receive daily complimentary access to Venus Beach Club, a spot inspired by the Amalfi Coast, with daily unlimited F&B packages from 5pm to 7pm, plus a Dhs300 spa voucher.
    For the family
    Enjoy time as a family this summer at the resort. Book a stay (minimum two nights) at Caesars Palace Dubai and get access to the resort’s chilled pools, private beach, water sports, incredible dining (F&B credit up to Dhs500) and summer giveaways. There’s also the Young Caesars all-day kids’ recreation programme for children aged three to 12 where they can enjoy daily indoor and outdoor activities from morning until sunset. There’s also Dhs150 spa credit per adult for mum and dad to enjoy
    Decadent dining experience

    For those looking for a luxury dining experience, Caesars Palace Dubai is home to four unmissable dining experiences including Michelin Chef Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen Dubai, inspired by the hit TV show; Demon Duck by Michelin Chef, Alvin Leung where you can enjoy slow roast duck; Havana Social Club for exquisite Cuban cocktails and flavours; and newly opened Venus Ristorante for an authentic Italian feast. Currently, if you dine early on weekdays at Hell’s Kitchen, Demon Duck and Havana Social Club you’ll receive 30 per cent off from 6pm to 8pm. Meanwhile, children up to 12 years of age dine free at Venus Ristorante and all-day dining spot Bacchanal with every paying adult.
    Stay for the day
    Stay for the day at Caesars Palace Dubai at one of the three beach clubs – Neptune Pool and Bar, Fortuna Pool and Bar and Venus Beach Club – and enjoy 100 per cent back on F&B credit. At the Beverly Hills-inspired spot, Neptune Pool & Bar, soak up the sun for the day from Dhs280 per person on weekdays and Dhs380 per person on weekends. Meanwhile, the Fortuna Pool and Bar is the perfect family spot with its new Fortuna family day pass costs Dhs560 per family with access to the kids club and an inclusive three-course dinner at Bacchanal. Finally, adults can head to Venus Beach Club for Dhs350 for the day and cool off in the company of panoramic views of Dubai on a sun lounger, hammock or cabana.
    For more information visit caesars.com/dubai or call (04) 556 6666. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    The Côte d’Azur is calling at this fine-dining Dubai restaurant

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: While the who’s who of Hollywood may currently be in Cannes, you can escape to the Côte d’Azur right here in Dubai.
    Twiggy by La Cantine is the place to be for chic eats with a menu swinging between Ibiza, Saint-Tropez, Cassis and Formentera via Okinawa.
    Under the expertise of Chef Fabio Luz, dine in style as you indulge in Mediterranean-inspired dishes from the classic burrata to a refreshing lentil salad to royal prawns to black truffle pizza. There’s also a plethora of sushi options that are to die for. Other favourites also include king crab avocado, the lobster cannelloni and the seabass fillet.
    Eloquent dining lies at the helm with Provence-inspired decor with pastel and cream hues and touches of rattan, paired with some of the most impressive views of the Downtown Dubai skyline.

    Looking for a relaxing sun-drenched lunch? Twiggy is the place to be. Also looking for a chic and decadent dinner? Again, Twiggy is the place to be.
    Unmatched in views, unbeatable in vibe and undeniably sumptuous food all make for the best 360-degree dining experience.
    It’s a place where, from dusk until dawn, from beach club to restaurant, you can relax and unwind. Open until 2am daily, bask in the sun at the beach club in the company of an upbeat soundtrack during the day and dine out at the restaurant at night – and then repeat!
    As we said, who needs Canne when you have Twiggy Dubai on your doorstep?
    For more information visit twiggy.ae. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Why this European capital city needs to be on your must-visit list this summer

    Lifestyle

    by Staff Writer
    May 16, 2022

    With a rich history, culture, some of the most innovative gastronomical delights and a plethora of luxe hotels, Madrid, Spain is the city to add to the top of your travel bucket list.
    Madrid is the beating heart of Spain. Exuding culture, a rich heritage dating back hundreds of years and an extensive restaurant scene, this vibrant capital city is creating its own definition of luxury. Being immersed in the culture, art, heritage, gastronomy, local fashion and more, create an unforgettable experience – that’s true luxury and this is exactly why Madrid should be your next go-to travel destination.

    The Culture & Heritage
    With a history that dates back multiple centuries, the Spanish capital has an incredible story to tell. Lose yourself in the culture and heritage of Madrid at the Paseo del Prado and El Retiro Park, which has just been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Coined the ‘Landscape of Light’ combining culture, science and nature, this vast area is 75 percent green space. In this area alone you can truly immerse yourself in the heritage of Madrid with many galleries and museums all amongst this 190-hectare space. This includes the iconic ‘Madrid Golden Triangle’ which consists of the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Reina Sofía Museum. There’s also the Decorative Arts Museum, the Royal Astronomical Observatory and the Botanical Gardens which await you.
    The Gastronomy
    Madrid’s gastronomy alone will take you on a historical journey. The Spanish capital holds the Guinness World Record for being the home to the world’s oldest restaurant. Dating back to 1725, Botín is one of the city’s most authentic dining experiences. As well as taking you on a historical culinary journey, Madrid is a city that’s an expert in haute cuisine. Home to 21 Michelin-starred restaurants including the three-starred DiverXo, run by innovative chef David Muñoz, there’s no shortage of culinary offerings in this pulsating capital.

    The Fashion
    Experience the quality, design and detail of Madrid’s local artisans in the areas of Las Salesas, Lavapiés, Barrio de Las Letras (Literary Quarter), Chueca, Malasaña, Conde Duque, La Latina, Madrid de los Austrias, some of which are centuries old, to invest in timeless and authentic pieces. For a newer shopping experience, explore Galería Canalejas, set amongst the famous Calle Serrano and Calle Ortega y Gasset in Barrio de Salamanca. The avant-garde shopping area is set across 15,000 metres and is home to some of the top luxury houses including Hermès and Cartier, with many more set to open in 2022.

    The Stay
    No stay in Madrid is complete without experiencing the many luxurious hotels the Spanish capital is home to. For those seeking a truly opulent stay, the Mandarin Oriental, Rosewood Villa Magna and the newly opened Four Seasons Madrid are all ideal or perhaps a more contemporary hotel like the Madrid EDITION Hotel would suit. Whatever your criteria, you’ll be sure to find it in the heart of Spain.
    For more information visit esmadrid.com
    May’s – The Finer Things Issue – Download Now
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    6 ways to spark creativity in your little one’s everyday life

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Engaging your child’s creative side is an incredibly important part of the nurturing and growing process, however, it doesn’t have to take an entire day of your time.Sparking the imagination of little ones’, LEGO® DUPLO® Bricks are the ideal play pieces to stimulate your child’s mind creatively, whilst also having fun.Whilst playtime can be chaotic and also messy, encouraging your child to play without any setbacks and blocks is key to unlocking their potential as it helps to develop their core socio-emotional, physical, creative and cognitive skills. By age three, there are over 1000 trillion connections between the brain and neurons, putting into perspective how important assisting your child to thrive is.Helping to pave the way for their future, the large bricks in the LEGO DUPLO sets put your mind at ease that they are safe in their building endeavours, no matter what adventure they choose to envisage.Prompt creative conversations with your little one By making creative conversations part of everyday life, a child naturally develops an imaginative way of thinking. Creative conversations can be as easy as playing word association games in the car or making up a simple story before bed. Prompts like “Where would you go if you were a bird?” can allow your child’s imagination to run wild.[embedded content]Let them lead Every so often it is important to let your child make the decisions. This could start with going to the park for half an hour, letting them lead the way on a walk at their pace. Or tell them they will make the plan and encourage them to talk about all the amazing things they could do when they get there.Encourage positive conversation with questionsEvery night before bed, establish a routine where you both talk about the positive points of the day. This allows your child to reflect on their day as well as helping you to understand what they enjoy doing from a young age. If you don’t always have a lot of time, this is a quick way to engage your child’s creative mind.Give them freedom with playtimeFreedom to play in an unstructured way is vital for development. You could give your child a box of bricks and watch them build, rather than instructing them what to create. Afterwards, try to be specific and ask them what it is and what it can do.It’s okay to make creative mistakes [embedded content]Experimentation is creativity for children, some of their creations may look slightly strange, however, they could have just learnt something new, like how a brush moved on the page. The most important part of playtime is ensuring they have fun, whilst also providing education.Don’t worry about the mess Yes, messiness can be good sometimes, plastic sheets and lots of space can allow your child to be free and get messy to their heart’s content. Feeling safe to try anything will allow your child to build confidence in their creative abilities. And If you’re lucky, you might be able to convince them that tidying up is a fun game too.Perfect for small hands and curious minds, LEGO DUPLO bricks are double the size of the regular LEGO brick; twice the length, height and width making them easier to handle for younger builders aged 1.5-5 years old.As your child grows, they can move onto traditional LEGO bricks, but don’t worry the LEGO DUPLO bricks are completely compatible, meaning your child can continue to use them in their more advanced building endeavours.The Hero Buys

    LEGO DUPLO Alphabet Truck

    LEGO DUPLO T. rex and Triceratops Dinos

    LEGO DUPLO Spider-Man Headquarters

    LEGO DUPLO My First Car Creations

    LEGO DUPLO Mickey & Minnie Birthday Train

    LEGO DUPLO Minnie’s House and Café

    LEGO DUPLO Number Train – Learn To Count

    LEGO DUPLO Space Shuttle Mission

    LEGO DUPLO is available at all good toy retailers including Toys R Us, ELC & plus online stores such as First Cry, Noon, Amazon, Mumzworld. And of course, our very own LEGO® certified stores.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages/Media: Supplied More

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    The ideal luxe escape to get away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai

    The perfect way to escape from the busy crowds and bright lights of the city is amongst the tranquility of the Arabian desert. This is why Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, is the ideal place to take a break for the wellbeing of your mind, body and soul. Just under an hour’s drive from the city of Dubai, Al Maha offers wellness and tranquillity in the secluded setting of the Arabian desert with vast views of undulating dunes and the Hajar Mountain massif.This unique resort currently offers two luxury staycation packages to suit every guest who needs to recharge and revitalize. For those seeking to escape the city for a night or two, take advantage of Al Maha’s ‘Spa Indulgence Staycation’ package (Dhs4,650 for two adults per night) where you can choose from the selection of therapeutic, deep tissue and body massages, which embody the secret aromatherapy traditions of the Middle East and South-East Asia. The package also includes breakfast, lunch and dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant, Al Diwaan.Al Maha’s ‘Desert Romance’ staycation package is the ideal getaway for couples looking to spend quality time together amongst the seclusion of their own suite at the resort with its own private pool, looking out on the plains of the Arabian Desert. Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed with a premium sparkling beverage. Later in the evening, a gastronomic dining experience awaits at Al Diwaan. The stay also includes a romantic deck dinner, camel trekking for sundowners, an additional desert activity of the guests’ choice and a 60-minute spa treatment.Those who are looking to get away from it all just for the day can opt for the ‘Spa Indulgence Day Package’ (Dhs640 per person) or the ‘Wellness Package’ (Dhs525 per person). The first includes access to Al Maha’s Timeless Spa facilities for the day, its infinity pool, gym, a 60-minute Timeless Therapeutic Massage of your choice and three-course lunch. The second offers yoga in the desert every Tuesday and Saturday at 8am with a one-hour mediative session with one of Al Maha’s certified resident instructors. The package also includes full-day access to Timeless Spa facilities, main infinity pool and gym with a three-course lunch at Al Diwaan.Al Maha also encourages guests to take advantage of the tranquil surroundings, taking in all that nature has to offer in the Arabian desert. For those who prefer to switch off, while keeping their mind occupied with adventure – which also benefits your overall health and wellbeing for the mind and body – take part in the resort’s desert activities. ‘The Bikers Deal’ is the perfect package for those who love adventure by exploring the desert on a two-wheeler. Ride amongst the sand dunes for the day with the chance of being accompanied by Arabian Oryx and gazelles. A special breakfast and lunch menu is also available priced at Dhs115 and Dhs215 respectively.The ‘Discover Epicurean Experiences – Al Maha Activities Package’ (Dhs995 per person) takes guests on an exploration of the local surroundings with an expert field guide who will give you invaluable insights into the importance of the conservation programmes and precious wildlife with guided camel treks and horse riding. For those who are feeling adventurous, opt for an education dune and wildlife drive. You can also learn about the indigenous desert culture with a demonstration on the Art of Falconry, with the field guide sharing the history of falconry and its importance in the Gulf region.For reservations, call 04 832 9900 or visit al-maha.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More