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Squared by Tawpee Comeso
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Solitude by Don Reyes
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Parmigiani Fleurier salutes the spirit of Valentine’s Day with Tonda Reine de Mai
Parmigiani Fleurier continues to showcase its dedication to métiers d’art and high watchmaking with the launch of the Tonda Reine de Mai collection. Inspired by the bucolic landscape in Switzerland surrounding its manufactures and the flowers found there, it combines Parmigiani Fleurier’s commitment to in-house manufacturing, fine finishing, and artistry. Nature and the beauty of the golden ratio are enduring sources of inspiration, and the Manufacture uses a wide array of artistic techniques to bring them to life in this release, including hand-chiseling, hand-diamond-setting, hand-polishing, hand-sandblasting, and marquetry.
The Tonda Reine de Mai features a beautiful bouquet of mother-of-pearl, rose gold, and diamond-set flowers, akin to the snow-white Daisy May buds often seen into late Summer. Machined to achieve their perfect shape, they are finished by hand before being placed atop a white mother-of-pearl dial comprised of 23 different marquetry elements.
The dial features an additional six Daisy May flowers, three in rose gold with alternating polished and engraved petals, and three in white gold and handset with 117 diamonds. This brilliance and texture give subtle depth to the unique dial making it seems as if the flowers overlapped like they would in nature. Each dial takes 24 hours to craft and requires the work of many artisans skilled in different métiers d’art. This version is limited to five pieces, and each dial is slightly different as the bouquet is placed at different angles on each one.
The Tonda Reine de Mai is powered by the PF310 automatic movement, which Parmigiani Fleurier created in 2014 in its vertically integrated manufacture. It adheres to the strict codes of craftsmanship and finishing that the atelier is revered for, as well as Michel Parmigiani’s penchant for creating a secret for the wearer.
The 36mm rose gold case features a crown with a white opal cabochon; it is polished and set with 70 diamonds totaling 2.09 carats, while the bracelet is meticulously set with 906 diamonds totaling 9.22 carats. The bracelet is beautifully integrated to the case thanks to its teardrop- shaped lugs, a Parmigiani Fleurier trademark, and was carefully designed to ensure great comfort.
‘I want to motivate people to try new things and challenge themselves’
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Breaking a Guinness World Records (GWR) title is more than just doing something amazing. It recently took 33-year old Pakistani national, Azmat Khan six minutes and one second to break the previous Guinness World Records title for fastest mile dribbling a basketball. Khan is a Kohat product, and he also holds the record title for the 10 miles equivalent.
Khan’s story with GWR started by deciding that he wanted to take his achievements to the next level, so he had to find something he thought he could handle on a global level. Searching GWR site, a record title on basketball drew his attention held by American Reed McManigal, who managed to set the record in 6 minutes 39 seconds. Two cyclists served as videographers to document the attempt, using their mobile phones. Khan was able to shatter Reed McManigal’s record by almost 38 seconds.
Khan and his crew took over a cycling path in Al Warqa Third Park in Dubai on a sunny Saturday for his attempt. His preparation for the run mostly focused on following GWR guidelines leading up to the big day. He had to go through many steps including securing two timekeepers, witnesses, and a track official.
The professional runner has participated in runs across Dubai, ranging from 3km up to 42km. “I want to motivate people to try new things and challenge themselves,” he said.
Almost losing contact with the basketball as it rolled off to the edge of the track, he was able to grab it back and resume dribbling, though, and wound up finishing the race in 6 minutes and 1 second. Instead of running a smooth, steady pace, he had to surge with the ball when it bounced ahead. “Dribbling a basketball while hitting that speed wasn’t easy. The turns were especially challenging. I almost lost the ball a few times on the curves,” he said.
Foxglove: Eclectic British classics for a unique gastronomic experience
Dubai, UAE: Soho Garden, the go-to dining and nightlife destination set alongside the Meydan Racecourse in the ever-evolving Downtown Dubai area, is proud to announce the official opening of the newest extension of its popular venue: Foxglove.
A British gastronomic experience, Foxglove is located at the heart of Soho Garden, alongside the expansive, recently opened, outdoor venue, Soho Beer Garden, next to the Meydan Racecourse Grandstand.
The ideal setting to dine and enjoy good times with friends and family, Foxglove is an authentic British gastropub, with something for everyone, blending traditional décor, elegant interiors, classy contemporary touches, games, and a fun, welcoming and entertaining atmosphere. Live sports on conveniently positioned screens ensure guests never miss a big match, whether it’s football, cricket or anything in between, while cosy booths provide the perfect spaces to enjoy a more private dining or social experience.
A unique gastronomic experience, Foxglove offers guests a mouth-watering selection of British classics and international favorites, from starters and salads, to mains, grills, and desserts. An eclectic menu created by British Head Chef Nick Walsh and his team, features delicious dishes such as Quail Scotch Eggs, the Salmon, Crab & Parsley Fishcake, Fish & Chips, Lancashire Hot Pot, and Chicken Tikka Balti, along with Wagyu Ribeye and Striploin, New Zealand Lamb, Whole Sea Bass, and much more.
There’s plenty to satisfy that sweet tooth too, and Foxglove’s irresistible assortment of desserts includes the Double Chocolate Brownie, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Homemade Belgian Waffles, and more.
Behind the bar, an extensive selection of 74 different types of hops can be found, including the very best British, Irish and craft brews, as well as a wide assortment of signature and ‘Hall of Fame’ cocktails mixed up on the spot by Foxglove’s expert mixologists. For those who prefer their tipples to be of the white, red or rosé kind, there’s also a wide array of grape to choose from.
John Saliba, CEO of the Soho Garden project said: “We’re excited to kick off 2021 with the official unveiling of Foxglove. The latest evolution of our ambitious Soho Garden project, Foxglove is the next step in our journey towards becoming Dubai’s leading entertainment destination, as we expand our diverse selection of fun, entertaining and enjoyable venues, all in one expansive space. We can’t wait to see what the year ahead will bring, and we’re really looking forward to offering guests an authentic British gastronomic experience at the heart of Downtown Dubai for many years to come.”
A gastropub for every day of the week, Foxglove has an extensive line-up of daily and weekly offers, including Happy Hour, Business Lunch, Ladies Night, and lots more.
Foxglove is open daily, from 12pm to 3am
Get social with @FoxgloveDxb on Facebook and Instagram
Find out more at foxglovedxb.com
Intriguing dining experience at Matroshka Bistro & Jardin
Dubai, UAE: Matroshka Bistro & Jardin, Dubai’s newest, homegrown, Russian and French restaurant, lounge and terrace, is now open and bringing the very best of two rich cultures – adored, admired and celebrated across Dubai, the UAE and the world – to The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah this January, Valentine’s Day and beyond. A fully licensed venue spanning two floors and boasting breath-taking views of the world’s largest fountain, Matroshka takes guests on a truly captivating culinary and social journey that offers up the best of both worlds through two unique dining experiences.
On the ground floor, guests will find the Matroshka Bistro, offering a casual dining experience, laid-back vibes, a relaxing lounge area, and a welcoming terrace. The perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Bistro is where everyone, from couples to friends to families, can enjoy delicious, generously portioned, French and Russian cuisine, along with international and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, which pay culinary homage to the amazing city of Dubai. Beautiful tones of red and decorative highlights, such as screens with patterns of traditional Russian folklore, create a wonderfully warm ambiance, and specially crafted shelves displaying much-loved Matryoshkas make it an Instagrammer’s dream venue.
On the first floor, le Jardin is the ultimate adult-only playground and an exclusive gateway to the glitz and glamour of Russian and French cultures, with interiors inspired by the early 20th century. Here, guests will discover an elevated atmosphere, exquisite French and Russian cuisine, and a creative beverage selection, as well as an open-air terrace overlooking the fountains – the ideal setting to enjoy shisha with breath-taking views.
Le Jardin’s carefully curated menu is a culinary celebration of both iconic cultures, with highlights such as Escargots, Russian Olivier Salad, Seared Foie Grass with Crispy Hazelnuts, Duck Confit Parmetier with Truffle, Matroshka’s signature Whole Roasted Truffle Chicken, Russian Pelmeni with Salmon & Chilean Seabass, and much, much more.
Matroshka Bistro & Jardin opening hours:
Bistro: Sunday to Thursday 4pm—1am | Friday & Saturday, 3pm—1am
Le Jardin: daily from 7pm to 2am
For inquiries and reservations, please call +971 4 575 5097 or email reservations@matroshkarestaurant.com
How about Aphrodite Oysters and more on Valentine’s Day?
Dubai, UAE: Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and Aiza, the recently opened, homegrown, Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, bar and lounge at The Pointe’s East Marina, is bringing culinary magic and an enchanting atmosphere to the most romantic night of the year. Loved-up couples will be able to indulge in a night of romance, harmony and splendour, complemented by mouth-watering, limited-edition Valentine’s dishes, traditional plate smashing, and an à-la-carte menu that takes them on a captivating culinary and social journey.
This warm, welcoming and romantic one-stop destination is Dubai’s most idyllic setting, where guests can enjoy a Valentine’s Day experience like no other. Dine under a bougainvillea tree out on the terrace while admiring the breath-taking views of the world’s largest fountain, or be transported to Santorini while dining indoors. Aiza’s intimate ambiance and exquisite interiors, inspired by the Cyclades Islands, feature the best of one of the most romantic and iconic islands in the world – Santorini. Your romantic dining getaway on the 14th of February is only a call away and advance reservations for Valentine’s Day are highly advised.
Following DTCM’s recent announcement regarding the temporary suspension of live entertainment in hotels and restaurants, and, in order to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of team-members and guests, Aiza has placed its line-up of live entertainment on hold until further notice.
Treat that special someone to a truly unforgettable night filled with romance, intrigue and Greek-Mediterranean cuisine worth falling in love with, this Valentine’s Day at Aiza. Prepare to be enamored by limited-edition Valentine’s dishes and experience the true romance of the Cyclades.
Named after the ancient Greek goddess of love, beauty and passion, the ‘Aphrodite Oysters’ are exquisitely presented, accompanied by rose petals and served on a platter. Perfectly portioned for sharing, the platter offers two oysters topped with basil and avocado cream and caviar, along with two oysters served with home-made beetroot vinegar, a dash of Greek olive oil and Avgotaraho Messolonghi. The Aphrodite Oysters are, quite simply, a Valentine’s Day work of culinary art fit for a goddess.
Nothing says “I love you quite like chocolate and rose petals, and the ‘Lover’s Chocolate Fondant’ is a dessert that really sets the perfect romantic tone to complete a magical and memorable Valentine’s Day experience. A rich and creamy fondant served with strawberries, raspberries, and vanilla ice-cream, decorated with beautiful red rose petals and topped off by a gold leaf, the ‘Lover’s Chocolate Fondant’ is love in dessert form.
Opening Hours:
Daily – 6pm to 2am | Kitchen – 6pm until midnight
For enquiries and reservations, please call +971 4 575 5097
or email reservations@aizarestaurant.com
Get social with AIZA on Facebook and Instagram
For more information, visit www.aizarestaurant.com
Book your staycation at Ramada Downtown Dubai and choose from five Emaar Entertainment attractions
DUBAI, UAE – Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai unveils its family-friendly winter staycation packages inclusive of free tickets at any of the five Emaar entertainment attractions located at The Dubai Mall.
Starting at AED 659/, the deal is inclusive of a one-night stay in a one-bedroom apartment, plus breakfast for two adults and two kids aged six and below. As part of the package, guests will get one day-pass at Kidzania Dubai, or they can opt for two tickets from any of these four attractions at The Dubai Mall: Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, VR Park, or Ekart Zabeel.
For added convenience, Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai offers guests complimentary shuttle drop off at The Dubai Mall during their hotel stay. Alternatively, the free tickets can be used within 30 days from the check-in date. To add more perks to the fun-filled staycation, guests will also receive 20% off at Kenza Restaurant and in-room dining orders, and AED50/ gift voucher at the newly-opened Rayya Wellness.
This offer is valid until end of March 2021. For booking or more information, visit www.rdtdubai.com/, email reservations@rdtdubai.com, or call +971 4 303 9513, or get in touch via WhatsApp at +971 50 106 9059. The rates are inclusive of taxes and subject to tourism dirham fee. Hotel terms and conditions apply.
Saniya Chughtai: Dubai-based children’s story writer
Saniya Chughtai, Pakistan-born, Irish national is CEO and founder of The Wadi Tribe. A philanthropist, serial entrepreneur, business consultant, children’s author, Saniya, who also is an interior architect and international designer, is based in Dubai
Saniya was born in Karachi, Pakistan and has lived in Ireland since the 90’s. She wrote her first children’s book nine years ago under the series, “The Adventures of Chee and Dae.”
Since then the Seanachai in her was awakened forever and she has since written nine books, six of which have been published so far and one at illustration stage.
She is married to Brendan McKittrick who comes from a strong Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) background, where all three brothers played GAA for Fingallians. Their father, Seamus McKittrick is an All-Ireland minor football double gold medalist.
After months of requests from Brendan to write GAA children’s books, Saniya finally found inspiration while researching hurling, in the words,“hurling is an ancient warrior sport.” And the legend of “Tach the Hurler” was created.
Indeed, “Tach and the Cosanthor,” is a popular award-winning children’s book, the first book in a five-part series. It is set in ancient times, introducing the origins of the game and its importance in a community.