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    8 luxe resorts to visit around the world for a last-minute escape

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    57 mins ago

    If you’re looking for a luxe travelscape, we’ve got you covered.
    To extend the ongoing 6-day break, switching-off at the right property during your travel plans can make you feel refreshed for the busy season ahead this year.
    For those still wondering where to escape to, there’s a myriad of destinations with picturesque properties to rejuvenate at with your loved ones.
    From tailor-made butler services to overwater bungalows, there’s a property for each type of traveller who’s in need for much-need getaway.
    Whether an expansive idyllic oasis in India, a secluded beach house in Seychelles, an elephant camp and resort in Thailand and more – here, the Emirates Woman guide for all the potential Eid destinations to visit.
    United Arab Emirates, DubaiOne&Only The Palm

    Inspired by the architecture of Andalusia’s Moorish palaces, this exquisite low-rise boutique oasis promises sweeping views of the Dubai skyline. Guests can spend more time doing things they love this break, including savouring Michelin-starred dining at STAY by Yannick Alléno, rejuvenating at the boutique Guerlain Spa with a range of bespoke treatments and also unwind at the chilled swimming pools. Prices for one night start from Dhs2,100, making it a truly indulgent escape.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    New York, Midtown NYCAman

    As a peaceful haven in the heart of Midtown, the property has an inviting sense of warmth from the moment you enter. With spacious living areas and oversized king bedrooms, By making it an invitation to switch off from the outside world. With a strong focus on fresh seasonal ingredients and uncomplicated, heart-warming dishes, guests can experience  the Japanese washoku dining tradition at Nama. As an urban sanctuary this city retreat offers cutting-edge wellness services with an integrative medical doctor, traditional Chinese Medical practitioner and an experienced physiotherapist to cater to any specific requirements. Prices start at Dhs6,427 per night at this sophisticated haven.
    For more information visit aman.com
    SeychellesMango House

    Looking to escape to pristine waters? This luxurious property offers an exceptional getaway as part of LXR Hotels & Resorts. The stunning property offers breath-taking views of the Anse Aux Poules Blues Bay, the elegant Seychellois heritage is woven into every fibre of the hotel, and guests can enjoy an abundance of activities – ranging from excursions such as hiking along the stunningly rugged coastline, or lazing in a glass-bottomed boat on a tour of the island; to various water sports and wellness adventures.The hotel features premium rooms, and the suites fitted with the utmost comforts, to the private villas that give guests their own secret space within a slice of paradise. With white-sand beaches, crystal waters and host of watersports, visitors can explore Mahés gorgeous sites. The prosper for room rates from June 27 to June 30, 2023 start at Dhs2,963.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    India, UdaipurLeela Palace Udaipur

    A piece of cultural heritage amongst nature can be found at The Leela Palace Udaipur, for those seeking a rich experience away from the bustling city. Set amongst the Aravalli mountains and Lake Pichola, guests will have a rich cultural experience through every aspect of their stay. Whether witnessing a traditional folk dance, visiting the 162 year old Temple or learning about the ancient art form of Pichwai painting – visitors are sure to leave their trip culturally enriched.
    For more information visit theleela.com
    MaldivesSheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa

    The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers a luxurious Eid break, where you can create unforgettable memories. The Ocean Pool Villas provide a complete sense of place, with thatched roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase a private recreational deck, replete with a swimming pool, sun lounger and tropical-style hammock. With year-round sunshine, the five-star getaway provides ultimate relaxation within an utterly Instagrammable paradise. Experience the Dolphins firsthand at this exclusive resort as you cruise along the Indian Ocean on a traditional Maldivian Cruise Dhoni, soak in the breathtaking sunset and get your camera ready for a moment with these magnificent creatures.
    For more information visit
    IstanbulVakko Hotel & Residence

    The lavish property has 31 generous suites designed for a bespoke experience. Each suite offerings soft furnishings with neutral hues and a luxurious marble bathroom for an unforgettable experience. Situated in a prime location in the heart of the city, the property is designed with the modern architecture. With a new approach to the accommodation experience, the hotel brings exclusive services under one roof, including holistic spa services, a personalised shopping experience and retail offerings all in a central location. Guests can book a hotel room starting at Dhs2,350 for two guests and experience a midweek getaway as per their convenience.
    For more information visit vakkohotel.com
    Turkey, BodrumMett Hotel & Beach Resort

    Perfectly situated in the private Haremtan Cove on the Aegean Sea in Turkey, this stunning property has a plethora of dining experiences and accommodation options to choose from, guests can spend the long weekend seeking out life’s simplest pleasures and enjoy an enriching escape that blends modern minimalism and easy living within a truly stunning natural environment. Guests can expect 72 elegant and beautifully designed guest rooms and 31 premium suites, lofts, or villas, For those looking to be pampered during their stay, guests can relax at the resort’s, MOI Spa, where skilled therapists help guests choose the best spa treatment designed to soothe, pamper, de-stress or invigorate the mind and body. This Eid Al Adha, prices start from EUR 870 (AED 3,481) for an Atrium room, whilst suites start from EUR 2550 (AED 10,203).
    Thailand, Chiang RaiAnantara Golden Triangle

    Perched on a ridge in northern Thailand, Anantara Golden Triangle immerses you in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. It has 40 rooms and 15 perched on a jungle hilltop, with a spread of valley, river and grazing elephants below. Lose yourself in the most stunning of natural settings, with a private balcony and exquisite Thai daybed. With the scent of lemongrass, guests can take a break and experience a massage in a lush setting. Discover the elephant outside your room. Spend an unforgettable night observing Thailand’s majestic elephants in their natural habitat from the comfort of your very own, fully furnished, transparent Jungle Bubble.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @mettbodrum @natalyakanj More

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    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to The Summer Escape Issue.
    This issue encourages you to explore and unwind as summer unfolds.
    For our cover we champion Tania Santos Silva in The Free Spirit. A businesswoman that knows how to still leave room for the freedom that enhances her creativity, we have admired Silva’s fierce independence and vibrancy for life along with her sharp mind and quick wit. A truly incredible EW woman.
    We deliver you the best edits for summer dressing from the bucket hats bringing you a brim-full of cool this summer in The Bucket, to your very own beachwear refresh in The Swimwear Edit. Olivia von Halle redefines sleepwear classics with a sense of escape and adventure in The Silk Road and we speak to NOMAD Founder, Nesa Rassouli on creating pieces that deliver a vacation vibe all year-round in Eternal summer.
    Beauty and lifestyle wise, we look at the best ice baths in Dubai to keep you cool this summer in Real Cool and the safest way to glow this summer in Golden.

    Finally, in terms of wanderlust we take you on a virtual escape to experience Six Senses Rome as it seamlessly blends history with a modern feel in A City Gem and Il Borro takes us on a culinary journey, so you can enjoy the best of Italy even if you’re not traveling this summer in A Taste of Tuscany.
    Rest, recharge and refocus this summer. It’s time to level up…
    Swipe right to see the editor-approved guide of must-own essentials this summer.

    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

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    Eid escape: 12 countries with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    When is Eid Al-Adha?
    Following Arafat Day, Eid Al-Adha will commence on Wednesday, June 28. This joyous celebration honours Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The festivities will span from June 27 to July 1, marking a six-day long weekend for the private sector.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Japan

    If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
    Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
    For the latest visa requirements visit here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @aatras More

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    The ultimate editor-approved guide to Dubai’s Wasl 51

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Bringing you all the best hotspots in Dubai, our editor-approved guide to another bustling community is back. This time featuring Wasl 51.
    From all the quaint eateries to an upcoming workout hub, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the activities to try out on your next visit.
    Restaurants & Cafés
    BLK Cab Coffee

    Homegrown in Dubai, BLK Cab Coffee has five locations across the emirate, one of them being in the heart of Wasl 51. As the name would suggest, the coffee chain is inspired by the black cabs of London. The coffee spot is the ideal place to meet for a quick work meeting or to see friends over a nice brew on the weekends.
    Brunch & Cake

    Created with love, Brunch & Cake believes in delivering each dish with the best possible ingredients. From zucchini pancakes to delicious French toast, the restaurant was created to push the boundaries of F&B in Dubai. Bringing grandma’s goodness to the table, the restaurant offers a perfect mix of healthy, wholesome and visually appealing items on the menu. Located at Wasl 51, ground floor, it’s open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit brunchandcake.com
    Lana Lusa

    With Portuguese roots, the restaurant revives the neighbourhood soul of old southern Europe. By working in an open kitchen, the chefs create a series of mouth-watering dishes ranging from salted cod to grilled chicken. For a secluding and calming environment, this restaurant is an ideal place to leave the relentless pace of city outside. If you want a quick bite or a candlelit dinner, this restaurant has it all. Located in Plaza 1, Al Wasl road, it’s open on weekdays from 8am to 12am and on weekends from 9am to 12am.
    For more information visit lanalusa.com
    Milk Bar

    After starting as a family-owned, home-based dessert shop, this café provided a comfortable and trendy atmosphere with milk as its main ingredient. The urban environment focuses on bringing people together with lovingly prepared sweets accompanied with a cup of specialty coffee for the ultimate treat. Located in Shop 19, Wasl 51, It’s open from Monday to Sunday 10am to 10pm.
    For more information visit milkbar.ae
    Saya Brasserie

    This cosy concept has an array of delicious dishes in an Instagrammable setting. From Moroccan hummus to custom desserts, this restaurant provides the highest quality in everything served. Whether an enjoyable lunch or a romantic dinner, this restaurant has become an oasis of the sweet and desired. Located in Wasl 51, it’s open from 9am to 1am.
    For more information visit sayacafe.ae
    La Fabbrica Italiana

    This restaurant brings an exciting new side of Italy to Dubai. Based on a piece of Focaccia, this 2000-year-old Italian tradition is served with a modern touch at this haven. By serving history, the love of food, culture and customer is all combined together under one roof. From Burrata’s to Tiramisu, La Fabbrica is considered a foodie’s time machine with every bite of its heritage served on a plate.
    For more information visit lafabbricaitaliana.com
    Orfali Bros Bistro

    By pushing the boundaries of cooking, Orfali Bros allows guests to discover new flavours to Dubai’s food scene. By invoking a sense of creativity, pride and joy at the kitchen, the chefs bring their experience to the table with an avant-garde flair. Enhanced with an element of multiculturalism, the restaurant has evolved into a work of gastronomical art. It’s open from Sunday to Saturday 12pm to 12am.
    For more information visit orfalibros.com
    Salons
    The Lash Show

    Your eyes have the power to change your complete look and the lash show believes the same. It’s the first-ever concept beauty salon & café in the region. This one-stop shop for your lash and nail needs offers its clients an array of innovative techniques to leave them feeling flawless. With this salon truly being love at first blink, guests have the option to choose from various mocktails as their session takes place. It’s open daily from 11am to 9pm except for Tuesdays.
    For more information visit thelashshow.ae
    Fitness
    51 Gym

    This one-stop shop fitness centre lets everyone discover their potential with all the state-of-the-art fitness equipment and premium amenities. With classes ranging from boxing, TRX, HIIT, yoga, Reformer and Pilates, guests will surely come back for more. Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness fanatic, this gym has enough sessions and expert levels to best suit your needs. Located in Plaza 1 Entrance, it’s open on weekdays from 6am to 10pm and at weekends from 8am to 8pm.
    For more information visit 51gym.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Supplied by Wasl 51 More

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    12 things you might not know about Sheikh Hamdan

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is constantly here there and everywhere.
    With an unending list of passions and hobbies, Emirates Woman has taken a deep dive into some interesting things you might not know about the Crown Prince of Dubai.
    He’s a massive foodie

    For those always on the lookout for places to dine in, these well-known establishments in Dubai have had the seal of approval from UAE royalty.
    Sheikh Hamdan absolutely loves to dine at the best eateries in Dubai including Roka, Ammos, Alici, Carine, Avli by Tashas and many more.
    He’s a doting dad

    His Highness became a father for the first time in May 2021, welcoming twins Rashid and Shaikha into the world. Since then, the Crown Prince of Dubai has truly become the ultimate doting dad. Fazza has shared tidbits of the growing twins on social media, sharing some adorable doting father moments with his 14 million followers on Instagram. He welcomed his third child in February 2023. Revealed to be named Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, he is the third addition to the Crown Prince of Dubai’s growing family.
    He cycled alongside an ostrich

    In a heart-stopping video taken to social media, Sheikh Hamdan is seen racing an ostrich in Dubai which is the world’s fastest bird on land. As he cycles with his entourage on the track, his love for the wildlife is beautifully depicted in this video.
    He’s passionate about underwater sports

    While inspiring many to take the plunge, Sheikh Hamdan makes the idea of deep water underground diving look very easy, as he continuously shares footage of himself under the sea, while also heading numerous metres below the surface to explore hidden underwater caves.
    He can fly a helicopter

    Starting off from Bluewaters island and making his way to Dubai Marina Mall as he goes around Dubai, Dubai’s Crown Prince’s video on social media has circulated around the UAE as he clearly loves to fly his chopper.
    The Crown Prince is also a poet

    With the caption for the above image being translated as follows, picking up poetry from his father has been one of the hidden talents he possesses, as he has also published under the pen name ‘Fazza’ which is an ode to a legendary Arab knight.
    Nature of the Soul
    My poems have meaning written with intuition I write my poems aware and observant My poems are not empty and a waste of my time They become more valuable with the passing of time
    What his nickname ‘Fazza’ means
    As mentioned, Sheikh Hamdan is affectionately known as ‘Fazza’. It means “the one who helps” in Arabic.
    He has climbed to the top of Burj Khalifa

    While scaling to new heights before the end of 2020, Sheikh Hamdan is seen scaling the sky-high building with his video amassing over 900,000 views and over 10,000 comments. He also showcases how high he is as he points the camera directly below him showing the busy Dubai highway and other buildings below. Well, this is not the first time he managed to do this, he also scaled to the top around seven years ago.
    He’s besties with Cristiano Ronaldo

    Over the years, Sheikh Hamdan and football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo have become firm friends. Whenever Ronaldo visits the emirate, the Crown Prince is always on hand to ensure he has the best time in Dubai.
    He launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge

    The annual fitness challenge which takes place every year inspires residents of the emirate to work out for 30 minutes every day for 30 days. Fazza himself launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge back in 2017, encouraging people to be more active in the emirate.
    He’s an avid traveller

    With travelling back on the radar again, there’s no better source of inspiration than His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed. From Scotland to Japan, this Royal has travelled the globe and continues to make trips around the world.
    He’s a keen photographer

    While he’s an adventurer at heart, Sheikh Hamdan is also a keen photographer always capturing spectacular shots of the travels he’s on and photographs around Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Faz3 More

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    7 inspiring Emirates flight attendants establishing new career paths

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Today, May 31, 2023, we celebrate International Flight Attendant Day.
    Balancing two careers doesn’t come easy, but Emirates cabin crew members show us how it’s done.
    From launching their own fashion labels to jewellery brands, these talented individuals have made a mark for themselves beyond the world of aviation.
    To champion these talented cabin crew members, Emirates Woman has curated a list of flight attendants who prove that you can do both.
    Luciana Tanase

    Besides her full-time career as an Emirates cabin crew member, Luciana Tanase has also founded her own fashion label, I-LO. This Romanian-based fashion label offers an array of everyday wardrobe staples such as crop tops and partywear pieces. With a passion for travelling, she’s managed to garner a massive fan base and dedicate time to growing her fashion brand’s presence online.
    Yassmine El Kholy

    With a passion for yoga and other meditation practices such as sound healing, Yassmine Elkholy is a part-time yoga instructor and an Emirates cabin crew member. She has been part of several campaigns for brands such as Reebok and Alo Yoga, making a mark for herself in the world of fitness. With a focus on complicated poses, she has garnered a dedicated audience who are keen to learn about the practice.
    Maria Soldatova

    With over 11 years of flying experience, Maria Soldatova is a long-standing Emirates cabin crew member. With her dedicated love for travelling, Soldatova decided to launch her own jewellery brand, Zoldi Jewels, designed with all the wanderlust inspiration. The pieces consist of airplanes, seashells, a map and various countries she’s visited around the globe. The pieces are sustainably produced in a conscious environment for the workers. As an entrepreneur, she has learned the art of dedicating her efforts to both her profession and brand.
    Danai

    Danai has visited over 48 countries as an Emirates flight attendant. Originally from Greece, she has established herself as a travel content creator with her pictures from around the globe. From surfing to skydiving, she’s always on a mission to try out new activities while sharing her fashion inspiration. Her loyal fan base is always keen to see where she’s off to next and what her outfits are.
    Margot

    With long-haul flights and numerous hours spent on air, Margot started her own YouTube channel and is now a part-time vlogger. With all the new countries she has visited, she shares snippets of her life as a cabin crew member, her channel has reached over 51,000 subscribers.
    Hana Brvar

    This Slovenian cabin crew member has travelled to a host of countries around the world. After pursuing her law degree, she decided to become a full-time flight attendant and makes time for her hobby as a professional ski instructor. From Portugal to Sri Lanka, she has seen the world and constantly shares photos of her travel experiences.
    Olia Podvolotskaya

    Podvolotskaya wears many hats. Along with being an Emirates cabin crew, she has been a dancer for 18 years and is also a part-time English and German teacher and interpreter. In May 2022, she officially completed her training programme and is now a full-time flight attendant for Emirates.
    So, who says you can’t do two things at once?
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @luciana_tanase More

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    Eid escape: 12 destinations with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Japan

    If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
    Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
    For the latest visa requirements visit here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @clairerose More

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    In pics: Hande Erçel gives us the ultimate wanderlust inspiration from her trip to Italy

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Ciao Italy! Hande Erçel made a recent trip to the country of pasta, and gelato, known for its picturesque streets, rich history and more.
    The 29-year-old Turkish actress has been travelling the world and just a few weeks ago, Erçel added Italy to our travel bucket list. After a year since her last trip to Italy, she decided to return to our country, to which she is very attached.
    Known for her stand-out sartorial choices, the actress visited the gorgeous city of Tuscany and donned an all-white three-piece suit and looked ever-so chic. With snippets of her visit to the vineyard and other stunning locations to her 30.6 million fans on Instagram.
    Known for her passion for art, she posted a series of photos on Instagram where the actress was captured on the streets of Florence, on Ponte Vecchio, and at the Uffizi Gallery. She also posed in front of Botticelli’s Venus.
    For some wanderlust inspiration on your next trip to Italy, see the actress’ photos where she looks like the ultimate tourist.

    Was it for work or vacation? Who knows. Nevertheless, the actress looked beyond stunning on her little getaway to one of her favourite destinations.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @handemiyy More