Equity Magazine December 2017

DECEMBER 2017 | ISSUE 07
E-COMMERCE
BOOM
THE RISE OF ONLINE
RETAIL PLATFORMS
TRAVEL
IDYLLIC STAYS AND
LOVE IN THAILAND
JESSICA BIEL
GROWING UP IN
HOLLYWOOD

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OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER
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Be Extraordinary.
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From the EDITOR
December. It’s the end of the year, the time
when families travel across the world and
celebrations begin. It all starts on UAE
National Day (December 2) where the
country will be marking its 46th anniversary, with
fireworks and parades. Around this time, the Christmas
tree goes up, carols start to play on the radio, and festive
markets are in full swing.
It’s also that time of year when stores are packed,
online shopping is the most convenient, and
e-commerce giants are elated with their steady ascent. Turn to page 16 to find
out how some of the region’s online retail stores are thriving. We’re sure most
of your time will be spent making gift-lists and hunting down the perfect items
and experiences for your loved ones. To make the process stress-free, we’ve
curated a selection of gifts and experiences for him and her (page 41).
The December issue highlights ambitious women on a mission, with success
stories from Sara Al Madani (page 18), Natasha Rudatsenko (page 32), and
Zoë Cousens. We also look at star-of-the-moment, Jessica Biel, and her
triumphant journey in Hollywood (page 26).
We love travel, here at EQUITY, and this month it was all about Thailand.
Deputy Editor Meryl D’souza got down on one knee and popped the question
while staying at two gorgeous Anantara properties – find out why he chose these
spots on page 60. My trip to Bangkok, on the other hand, was to learn about the
stunning Four Seasons Private Residences development. Turn to page 70 and
discover why Bangkok is luring expats with investment-worthy real estate.
As always, this issue is brimming with inspiration for your closet,
investment portfolio and experiences around the city. We hope the end of
this year marks a successful and gratifying one for each and every reader.
Happy Holidays
Nicola
Nicola Monteath
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EDITOR'S PICK
I love a pair of shades with
character and the new Gucci FW
eyewear has all the elements I
adore – sparkle, exaggerated
volumes and iconic rivets
I indulged in a movie marathon
ahead of the last Star Wars movie
and count myself a fan ever
since. If there’s one décor piece I
could buy for my home this
month, it would be this Swarovskicrusted
Goofy G Crystal-studded
Stormtrooper Helmet
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EQUITY - Always invest in yourself
EDITOR NICOLA MONTEATH - nicola@equity.media
DIGITAL EDITOR VARUN GODINHO
DEPUTY EDITOR MERYL D'SOUZA
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These stylish yet comfortable Gigi
Hadid x Stuart Weitzman slides will
get you through airport security
check in a jiffy
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insideEQUITY
24
mind
12
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
The hottest events happening
around the globe
18 14
14
18
22
24
26
31
32
COMMAND AND CONQUER
How e-commerce is set to take
over the UAE
WOMEN DON’T NEED TO BE
EMPOWERED
Sara Al Madani discusses further
THE BEACON
Zoë Cousens dishes out on her
journey and latest venture, here
in the UAE
FAIR PLAY
Darren Clarke on beating the
best and grooming future stars
JESSICA BIEL
Her latest projects and the
consequences of Harvey
Weinstein
WALKING IN A WINTER
WONDERLAND
Winter camps and more
SUPPORT LOCAL
A chat with the founder of
Muncherie Organic Food Co
36 body&
soul
34
SHOP TALK
It’s time to go shopping
36
41
THE CHECKLIST
Personalise your pieces and add
these staples to your wardrobe
FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE
Your run-of-the-mill gifts
impresses no one. Here’s what
you should be gifting this season
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DECEMBER 2017
41
54
INDULGE YOURSELF
Statement pieces to covet
and add to your wishlist
66
JETSETTER JOURNEYS
Travel inspiration for your next
big holiday
56
60
DINING CONCEPTS
Take your pick from these
culinary experiences
A TALE OF TWO ISLANDS
Thailand is so much more
than the go-to destination for
bachelor party sleazefests
67
70
72
STAY OF THE MONTH
Explore Bab Al Qasr in Abu Dhabi
EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS
Waterfront living in Bangkok
GET TO KNOW... TOM AIKENS
A peek into his life
60
On the cover
JESSICA BIEL
Read her interview on page 26
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reflect the editorial views of
the publishers of
EQUITY-Always invest in yourself.
All information in
EQUITY-Always invest in yourself
is checked and verified to the best
of the publisher’s ability, however
the publisher cannot be held
responsible for any mistakes or
omissions enclosed in
the publication in content,
advertising or graphics.
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mind
Discover the success stories
and journeys of four
women: Sara Al Madani,
Natasha Rudatsenko, Zoe
Cousens and Jessica Biel.
Avid online shoppers can
find out how the region’s
finest fare
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CALENDAR
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Jetsetters, don’t forget to add these dates to your diary
2
POP-UP GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE
WITH PACO PÉREZ
WHERE? The Ritz-Carlton,
Dubai International Financial Centre
WHEN? Until January 22, 2018
The award-winning Paco Pérez has set up shop at Center Cut
Steak House until the end of January, to tantalize tastebuds
with Spanish cuisine. The Catalan chef’s tapas-style menu is
available for lunch and dinner, featuring a contemporary take
on traditional flavours. Must-try dishes include slow-cooked
goatling shoulder with beetroot and sour cream and Getaria
anchovies. Pérez has one restaurant in Berlin and two in
Spain, each boasting two Michelin stars.
4
CYBER SECURITY &
GDPR FOR BUSINESSES
WHERE? Thames Innovation Centre 2, London
WHEN? December 11
Righttrain in partnership with the
metropolitan police have all the answers to
your cybersecurity enquiries. If you don’t
already have a strategy in place to secure your
organisation, it’s time to get on track.
1WHERE? The St. Regis Dubai,
Al Habtoor City
WHEN? November 29 to December 26
WINTER GARDEN MARKET
The Winter Garden Market is back.
It’s that time of the year when little
ones can step into winter
wonderland, feast on gingerbread
and get into the festive spirit. Adults
can treat themselves to mulled wine,
and a range of festive nosh, before
crossing off items from their gift list
at the retail section. Sing along to
festive carols and gaze at the
Christmas tree this holiday season.
3
GEM AND MINERAL SHOW
WHERE? Cora Harper Community
Center, Barstow, USA
WHEN? December 2-3
This two-day event brings
together the finest of mineral
jewellery, gemstones dealers,
fossils, rough and cut stones,
opals, beads and everything
within its realm. A paradise for
those looking to get into the
business and jewellery designers.
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CALENDAR
6
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON BIG DATA
AND INTERNET OF THINGS
WHERE? London
WHEN? December 20-22
The latest scientific research outcomes are revealed at
this conference, touching upon topics of Big Data and
Internet of Things. It’s a great spot to exchange ideas,
create business links and build global relationshops.
5
CHARLES DICKENS FESTIVAL
WHERE? Deventer, The Netherlands
WHEN? December 16-17
The famed author’s work and 950 of his novels’
characters are brought to life at this weekend festival.
Expect to bump into Olive Teist, Scrooge and Mr.
Pickwick, as you experience winter in this 19th Century
wonderland. In 2015, this was nominated for Best Public
Event in the Netherlands, and lives up to its name,
combining literature with a festive market for all ages.
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THE ART OF BANKSY
WHERE? Felix/Aldon Berlin, Germany
WHEN? Until December 30
More than 40 originals pieces of Banksy’s work are on
display from this mysterious artist. Spawned from a
movement that makes its own rules, this exhibit curated
by the artists’ former manager Steve Lazarides,
dominates the contemporary art world, and has
artworks worth over 20 million pounds. Look out for
the most talked about pieces, such as the iconic Girl with
Balloon, Kate Moss and Media.
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AUDI FIS SKI WORLD CUP - LADIES ALPINE
WHERE? Courchevel
WHEN? December 19-20
There’s nothing like hitting the ski slopes during the
festive period, and especially when the winter sports are
on. This ski paradise will play host to the eighth Women’s
World Cup. Head there to watch the races, aerobatic
demonstration, and experience the vivacity of this event.
A DJ, live music and plenty of other activities will make
this winter sporting festival a fun one for children and
adults who love the sport.
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FINANCE
COMMAND
and CONQUER
How e-commerce – through Souq.com, Noon,
Namshi and others – is set to take over the UAE
By Meryl D’souza
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FINANCE
You come across inspirational stories on the
internet almost every day. Very few go on to
become as big as the tale of Jeff Bezos. In July
this year, the Amazon.com founder usurped
Microsoft founder Bill Gates for the title of the richest man
in the world. At the time, his net worth was valued at $90.6
billion – $500 million, more than Bill Gate’s net worth.
However, that euphoria was short-lived. Hours after he took
pole position, Amazon’s stock price plummeted and Bill
Gates reclaimed his spot, thus maintaining the balance of the
universe. Well, the one per cent of the universe anyway.
Bezos’ ascent started in the early Nineties. The then
30-year-old noticed that a novel phenomenon, they were
calling the internet, was growing at an unprecedented rate
of 2,300 per cent per year. Not one to miss out on
opportunities, Bezos quickly made a list of 20 possible
products to sell online, and eventually settled on shipping
books because of their low cost and the universal demand.
Eventually, he expanded to music, movies, electronics and
toys before finally allowing the addition of third-party
vendors – who now account for 40 per cent of Amazon’s
$107 billion in sales. To call Amazon an e-commerce
website would be doing it a disservice, insulting it even. A
more apt term to describe Bezos’ behemoth would be to
refer to it as the world’s first e-conglomerate.
At this year’s Arab Luxury World conference in Dubai,
Researcher and consultant Nadine Touma Gammage
presented the results of a year-long Mall Mapping Study.
The study kept tabs on the habits of 4,800 people living in
the UAE, and found that more than half visit a mall at least
once a week. Not a single UAE resident would bat an eyelid
at that statistic. With 4.7 million square metres of shopping
centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi alone, the UAE boasts one
of the highest numbers of shops per capita in the world.
Despite the country’s obvious obsession with shopping and
its continued growth in internet usage and speed, it has been
dormant in terms of online shopping.
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FINANCE
However, those habits are poised to change tremendously
in the near future. Back in 2015, internet sales in the UAE
accounted for 3.9 per cent of the total sales in that year. In
2017, online sales in the Middle East and North Africa
(MENA) region are set to top $2 billion, with the UAE
leading the e-commerce boom. Those aren’t just numbers
pulled out of a hat either. According to a 2016 Digital Middle
East report by McKinsey & Company, e-commerce
penetration in the Middle East is estimated at a mere two
per cent of retail sales. As if e-commerce’s growth in the
region needed more evidence, in July this year,
Jeff Bezos’ e-commerce giant acquired Dubaibased
retail and marketplace platform Souq.com
to the tune of $700 million. Shortly after that,
Souq – which was growing at such an unparalleled
rate that it was dubbed “the Amazon of the
Middle East” – went on to acquire Wing.ae, a
marketplace for merchants and couriers based in
the UAE. The acquisition is expected to boost
Souq.com’s last mile delivery.
While it is one of the most successful platforms,
Souq isn’t the only unicorn to come out of the
UAE. Noon, the $1 billion e-commerce platform
founded by Emaar Properties chairman
Mohamed Alabbar, started operations in the
UAE last month. In February last year, Dubaibased
Wadi.com raised $67 million in Series A
funding with Al Tayyar Travel Group as the lead
investor. Elsewhere, Net-a-Porter reported that
the average order value in the Middle East is 50
per cent higher than the rest of world. It’s little
wonder that in April last year, Alabbar’s
Symphony Investments announced a joint
venture with Yoox Net-A-Porter Group
(YNAP), which will see Alabbar focus his entire
online luxury retail activity in the GCC exclusively
through the joint-venture, of which Symphony
Investments owns 40 per cent. Off-price brands
Yoox and The Outnet are set to debut localised
sites in the region in 2018, while Net-a-Porter and Mr Porter
will launch in 2019. It doesn’t stop. Another big player in
the UAE’s e-commerce battlefield is Namshi. Part of the
Global Fashion E-commerce Group and created by Rocket
Internet, Namshi is a Dubai-based online fashion retailer
with over 40,000 exclusive in-house collections and brands
posted a $1.8 million profit last year. The timing could not
have been better. At a time when Rocket Internet’s seen the
collective value of its fashion startups shrink by $2.4 billion,
Namshi was its saving grace.
E-commerce is the next big step for burgeoning
businesses in the region with the market expected to be
valued at $10 billion by 2018, according to Frost & Sullivan
(market research firm). Those numbers are subject to the
growth of complementary industries such as smartphones.
Thankfully for anyone involved in e-commerce, the
country’s smartphone penetration is the highest in the
world at 73.8 per cent, with more than 90 per cent of the
population having access to the internet. With that headache
basically curing itself, the focus will shift on keeping the
target audience happy. The e-commerce industry hinges on
millennials to keep it going. According to awok.com,
shoppers aged 25-34 comprise 65 per cent of the online
shoppers. The longer e-commerce platforms can keep these
millennials online, the higher number of daily activities are
likely to be conducted. As such, retailers in the region and
globally will have to focus on being mobile friendly to offer
efficient, convenient and safe click-and-shop experiences
for customers.
There can only be winners within the industry. Sure,
Souq.com dominates its counterparts, and Noon will
disrupt that order to a degree, but the market remains largely
untapped with figures from AT Kearney showing that
e-commerce contributes precious little to the GCC’s
economy, accounting for just 0.4 per cent of GDP in 2015.
When you look at e-commerce’s 1.8 per cent contribution
in France and 2.2 per cent in Japan – countries with similar
GDP per capita figures to the GCC as a whole – it’s hard to
believe that even the minnows operating in the region
would struggle for a decent piece of the pie.
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“Be Fearful When Others Are Greedy and
Greedy When Others Are Fearful”
Warren Buffett
Financial Planning | Tax Planning | Wealth Management | Corporate Services
United Arab Emirates | United Kingdom | Australia | Bermuda
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WOMAN LEADER
WOMEN
DON T NEED
TO BE
EMPOWERED.
WE ARE NOT
WEAK
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WOMAN LEADER
Serial entrepreneur Sara Al Madani discusses
startups, women in the workforce, and why
raising awareness on entrepreneurship at a
young age is imperative for a brighter future
By Nicola Monteath
Sara Al Madani is best defined as a bold, fearless risk-taker.
“My soul feeds on risk, it’s my bowl of cereal in the
morning,” she tells us. I met Sara at her newly opened café
Shabarbush in Mamzar, and was instantly struck by the
rebellious beauty with brains sat across the table. Sara isn’t
like most Emirati women we’ve come across. Yes, she has
the ambition, drive and elegance, but that element of
edginess is what sets her apart. That, and her piercings.
Sara is fierce, almost in the way Beyoncé Knowles is
to young women. Although, while they are both leaders
in a league of their own, their views on women empowerment are poles apart.
“The term ‘women empowerment’ makes us feel weak, as though we’re waiting
for someone to empower us. Women raise children, take care of the household,
they are good at managing finances and taking care of literally everything. We
do not need empowerment,” she says.
You may have heard of, or come across, Sara through her appearances at
conferences and events, where for the last seven years she has dedicated her
time, pro-bono, to educate younger women on several entrepreneurship topics.
She’s a serial entrepreneur and by title, is the founder of Shabarbush, Sara Al
Madani Fashion Designs, and Social Fish – a creative concepts company in LA.
It doesn’t stop there. She is the youngest Board Member at Sharjah Chamber
of Commerce and Industry, at UAE SME and enterprise council, and
ShjSEEN. And, a single mother of a two-year-old son.
How does she do it? “If you are an entrepreneur and have the will and
passion, you can do anything. Believe you can and you will. It’s as simple as
that. We tell ourselves I can’t do that and the minute you say that, your mind
refuses to take it. Plus, women can multitask, right?” she adds in. The road to
success hasn’t been an easy one for Sara, and despite what most may think, she
didn’t get to her position due to Emirati privilege. At nine, Sara chose to
massage family members for cash. At ten, she bought candy from far away
stores, slapped on an export candy mark on it, and sold it to her cousins for a
profit. At 15, Sara walked up to her father and told him she didn’t need financial
support. He laughed and told her mother she would come back. She prides
herself in telling me that she hasn’t gone back for financial aid ever since that
day. While her friends were hanging out at malls, Sara chose to work promotion
jobs selling juice – obviously not the norm for local girls. “It’s funny, I don’t
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WOMAN LEADER
remember much
about these days,
but there are videos
and photos as
evidence. I guess I
always had that
ambitious side and
independency.”
After eight months
of hard work, she
gathered Dhs25,000
and launched her
fashion brand,
known then as
Rouge Couture.
Sara says it was
affordable to be in
business back in the day. Her funds took her through three
years of operations. And while it took hard work to get
there, it didn’t deter her from proceeding with other
grueling ventures. “Hard work pays off. There’s always
someone, somewhere out there watching. That’s why you
should never stop,” she says.
This testimony stands true as she reveals the moment
she was chosen to be a board member. “I woke up one day
with everyone calling me, telling me to check H.H. Dr
Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi’s Instagram. A
list of names was published on a screenshot that said it was
the names of the Board Members chosen. I kept scrolling
and read my name and was like whoa!” says Sara. As board
member of the government, she has to make sure she isn’t
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WOMAN LEADER
My soul feeds on
risk, it’s my bowl
of cereal in
the morning
biased towards herself, and has no conflict of
interest. “You should purely want the best for
the city, its commerce, growth and the economy.
You are basically taking financial and board
decisions to enable the city to grow. I had to
learn plenty, but the Chamber of Commerce
taught us a lot too. They trained us on everything
from how to talk, to networking and dining,”
she says. Sara is currently in her second cycle –
each cycle is three years.
We re-visit the topic of women in the
workforce and Sara’s notion on gender bias. “We
love to sugar-coat things and say ‘Yes, we’ve
made it’ but it’s a man’s world and we are
changing everything. It needs time,” she says.
That said, she believes that women are the reason
women aren’t succeeding. “Men are not the
problem. The thing is a woman at a senior seat in
the office worked hard to get there and now she’s
worried someone else will take it away. They tend
to block the chances for other women and don’t
hire them, and this is a huge problem. Men have
surrendered. When women understand that we
aren’t competing, we are completing, only then
there will be notable changes.”
Of late, the UAE is seeing women taking on
leadership-and senior management-roles, which
is a major inspiration for other women. “It’s all
about educating people and trying to change
their mindset. Imagine if our leaders push all the
women, but at home the family is against it,
there’s a conflict in the direction,” she tells us.
As a young board member, she understands the
need for awareness and educating children at a
younger age, for them to inspire, be inspired and
influence their families.
When it comes to future endeavors, Sara
surprises herself. She doesn’t know what it
entails but always goes the extra mile to find out
what hidden talents she has. Success is a twoway
stream for this ambitious woman, with her
definition of success being, “what have I done
for myself and to help others?” As for now, she
plays catch-up with friends at venues she holds
meetings at, and allows herself to make the most
of her free time by travelling. “When you
explore different cultures, meet people, and see
new things it just opens your mind,” she tells me
as we chat about growing up in the UAE.
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ENTREPRENEUR
The
BEACON
By establishing a membersonly
investment club for
women in Dubai, Zoë
Cousens is now promoting
financial literacy on a scale
seldom seen before
By Varun Godinho
In the aftermath of World War
II, the Channel Islands were
wrecked. It had faced the brunt
of German occupation for
much of the war and most of its
businesses were squashed. The
inhabitants of one of the islands,
Guernsey, though can be singled out
as a particularly resilient lot.
In the Fifties and early Sixties, this
small island – no larger than 25 square
miles – located just off the coast of
Normandy, quickly developed two
major industries – tourism and
tomatoes. But by the early Seventies change was
afoot. “The tomato industry was overtaken by
the Canary Islands and the tourism industry was
overtaken by cheap holidays to Spain from the
UK. That was unfortunate for Guernsey but the
island has always been innovative in what it
does,” says Zoë Cousens who was born in
Guernsey in the Sixties and would be the
generation that would develop a multi-billiondollar
business which would replace tourism
and tomatoes – the financial services industry.
Cousens has spent over 30 years in the finance
industry, but it wasn’t her first choice. “My real
love is languages, so that’s what I studied when I
went to college. But in the Seventies, there
weren’t many opportunities to work with
languages. I was told that I would either be a
teacher or an interpreter in Brussels –
headquarters of the EU (which had just formed).
I didn’t want to be either and so I gave up that
idea and went to work in London. I was a young
girl on an adventure.”
In the early Eighties, Guernsey was beginning
to establish itself as a major offshore financial
centre. Cousens returned to the island and found
a job with a stockbroker, but was quickly deputed
to the London Stock Exchange. She started at the
very bottom of the rung, as what was known as a
Blue Button – a trainee dealer. Explaining how a
trade was done in her era, she says, “In those
days, we used to sit in rooms called boxes with
walls of telephones. The stockbroker sitting in
his office would speak to his client who may want
to buy a certain share and they would call that
through to the box. The person at that box – me,
the trainee dealer – would go up to the stock
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ENTREPRENEUR
exchange floor, and I would literally run around
the jobbers – the guys making the price. You
couldn’t say whether you were buying or selling
because you couldn’t give the game away. I would
go around the jobbers finding the best price.
Then I’d go back down to the box, ring the
broker, and he would then ring the client and
discuss with his client whether he wanted to buy
at the price I had got. They would then call me
back and I would go back up to the floor, to the
jobber who made the best price. Because I was a
junior I couldn’t strike the trade, so one of the
brokers would have to come with me to place the
deal.”
She’s still held on to her Blue Button to this
day. Cousens has seen this process that would
typically last a few hours to strike a single deal
being reduced to a couple of nanoseconds
today. Her time at LSE was interesting because
it was also a time when she was one of the first
women on the City’s stock exchange.
She didn’t see herself
being part of a maledominated
institution as
something of a revolution,
but rather a job that required
her to work in an
environment predominantly
filled with men. “I don’t
really recall, in those days,
there being such an
awareness of the women’s
‘glass ceiling’. These kinds of
phrases hadn’t been
invented. I wasn’t ever aware
of it. It was very interesting
being one of the first women down there. I
thought that some of the older guys who were
there would be slightly resentful, but that wasn’t
the case at all. I think they were delighted to see
some women on the exchange floor.”
Cousens quickly worked her way up the ranks.
She spent the next decade at a London-based
investment house where she would run
portfolios for high-net-worth clients and served
as a fund analyst as well. Before she could strike
out on her own, Cousens took some time out to
study. “I took a year out to broaden my financial
knowledge on topics other than investments
like pensions, regulations, protection, and
insurance.” On completing her course, she set
up her consultancy in Guernsey. “I began to
provide investment oversight consultancy
service for clients who are typically trust
companies or families that have portfolios. I
oversee the investment managers – checking
that they are meeting the objectives, that the
charging structure is appropriate and that the
risk profile is relevant.”
I don’t really recall,
in those days, there
being such an
awareness of the
women’s ‘glass ceiling’.
These kinds of phrases
hadn’t been invented
While in Guernsey, she also set up a service
that provided financial planning for women. “A
lot of women were coming to me because
women like talking to women about financial
matters, if they can. So, it just made sense to
help women with financial planning.”
Guernsey has got bad press recently, with terms
like “offshore” becoming a word weaponized and
wielded to demonstrate wrongdoing, rather than a
smart business move which is completely legal.
“The sensationalist reporting appears deliberately
designed to undermine the legitimate business acts
of offshore centres, attempting to portray it as a
lack of transparency. But in most cases, such as
Guernsey, that is simply not true. Privacy and
valuing client confidentiality should not be
conflated with secrecy. Strong regulation ensures
higher service standards and protection for
consumers together with a mechanism to reinforce
anti-money laundering and anti-terror financing.
In fact, offshore centres such as Guernsey act as a
tax-neutral facilitator of
global investment into the
UK, Europe and global
economies,” says Cousens.
In 2015, on the brink of
entering her third decade in
the financial services sector,
she made a radical decision to
move and set up her business
– Castellet Consulting – in
Dubai. “Women in business
are extremely well supported
here in Dubai. It’s wonderful
to see, for example, Sheikh
Mohammed’s government
has got such a high number of women. I think
through his leadership that that feeds through to the
other industries here, particularly the finance
industry. There’s a very strong ease of doing
business in Dubai as well.”
More recently, Cousens has embarked on
another pet project that focusses on promoting
financial literacy among women. She’s established
the Women’s Investment Network (WIN) here
in Dubai. “WIN is a members-only club. Our aim
is to help and inspire women to become
financially knowledgeable and independent. By
sharing expert knowledge, we promote financial
literacy and money-management skills. We are
establishing a community of like-minded women
who wish to come together in an informal setting
to learn more about financial matters,” says
Cousens. The club will conduct presentations
and investment workshops geared towards
offering members an insight into the world of
personal wealth management.
For a woman who’s spent over three decades
perfecting what she’s teaching, we’re all ears.
23
EQUITY

GOLF STORY
FAIR
PLAY
Darren Clarke, aka DC 60, has
built a career beating the best
in the business and is now
grooming the next generation
of professional golfers
By Varun Godinho
Darren Christopher Clarke owes his life to a phone
call. Born in 1968, the year before The Troubles
began, the Ulsterman was briefly working at a bar
called The Inn in the Park in Dungannon before
he began playing golf professionally full-time. One night, he
was setting up when they received a call at 9.30pm warning
everyone to evacuate. By 10pm the bomb, which was hidden
only five feet away from him, went off.
While he owes his life to a stroke of luck, his professional
career has been a fruit of hard labour. He’s had a phenomenally
successful career on the course. The legacy of wining two World
Golf Championships and a major were nearly undone though by
his controversial captaincy of the Ryder Cup team last year. He
chose a couple of rookies to play for Team Europe who was up
against veterans from Team America at Hazeltine. Case in point:
When Phil Mickelson from Team America went pro in 1992,
Matt Fitzpatrick from Team Europe wasn’t even born.
Clarke and I met on the sidelines of the DP World Tour
Championship last month at the Jumeirah Golf Estates in
Dubai, where he put his surprise Ryder Cup selection into
perspective. “I believed in all the rookies over there. They’re
world-class players. Unfortunately, we were up against a
resurgent America. They played very well and probably better
than we did. We got beaten by slightly the better team that
week and sometimes that happens in sport.” After spending
over 37 years on the course, he’s clearly cultivated pragmatism
rather than unbridled emotion when dealing with the highs
and lows of a being a sportsman.
24
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GOLF STORY
Was the feedback from critics sharper than was
warranted? “People are always going to have their
opinions. I said at the beginning of the week that if I
can look at myself in the mirror on the Monday
morning and say that I did the best that I possibly
could to help everybody win the Ryder Cup, then
the outcome wasn’t judged by anything else. I did
my best and the players did their best. On that
occasion, it wasn’t quite enough.”
Clarke, at his peak, was ranked among the top ten
for 43 weeks between 2000 and 2002. It was during
this time that he beat Tiger Woods to win his first
world championship at the 2000 Andersen
Consulting Match Play. “Tiger Woods and I were
very good friends – we still are. Tiger at that stage was
by far the best player in the world and I was fortunate
because he had a bad day and I had a good day. If you
put yourself up against the best in whatever business
and you can come out on top, it must feel good. He
would give you very few opportunities and when he
did, you had to take the chance and try to beat him.”
One of the biggest moments for any pro is winning
a major. Winning the Open in 2011 at the Royal St.
George’s Golf Club would be a career-defining
moment for many, but for Clarke, who had by that
time already spent nearly three decades playing golf, it
wasn’t necessarily the sweetest moment in his long
career. “It was a pretty good one. But I’ve had a few
other different highlights as well. But certainly,
winning the biggest and best tournament in our sport
is something that I dreamt of as a kid.”
He has been visiting Dubai since the early
Nineties and has seen the city expand rapidly since.
“When I first came here in 1991 to play the Dubai
Desert Classic, all of us stayed at the InterCon at
the airport and there was just one building – the
World Trade Centre – between there and the
Emirates golf course.”
Clarke now cites Dubai as a ripe golfing tourist
destination. “Golfing tourists
are usually very high netspend
tourists because they
come in and pay the green
fees. There are several golf
courses in Dubai and there
are one or two more new
ones going online as well. The
facilities for someone who
comes to play are second to
none in the world.”
He has had a few sponsors
backing him consistently
through his career. They might
not be as high-profile deals as
the $250 million one that Rory
McIlroy signed with Nike, but
they’re solid deals nonetheless.
Darren Clarke
and Tiger Woods
Clarke speaks about one of his
biggest backers, Swiss
watchmaker Audemars Piguet, who he has been an
ambassador for since 2001. “I first met its CEO
François-Henry [Bennahmias] on the range in 1999
through a mutual friend. I was a watch guy before I
met François – I already had two Audemars Piguets.
When you have someone that you’re already a fan of
then ask you to become their ambassador, that’s very
special. I’ve got the big Arnold’s All Stars, a gold one
and a tourbillon one as well.”
With Clarke pushing 50, he is beginning to
contemplate a life after golf. “I’ll probably fly fish a
little more than I do in different places around the
world,” he says with a chuckle. But quickly adds that
he will get more involved with his foundation which
has a two-fold mission – one is to develop junior golf
in Ireland and the other is breast cancer research and
awareness. While Clarke can be proud of his role in
promoting and developing junior golfers – McIlroy
was a progeny of the foundation – it’s the cancer
awareness part of it that hits closer to home. “My
wife died of breast cancer when she was 38. We’re
trying to do bits and pieces to help somebody not go
through the same thing we did. We’re involved with
Daffodils Centres where you can go in and ask the
questions to ease your mind because if you get
diagnosed with cancer, the doctors and nurses don’t
always have the time to answer all your questions.
We’re also involved in cancer research at the Queen’s
University in Belfast.”
Clarke has lived a life with no regrets. He’s owned
15 Ferraris, three Lamborghinis and a handful of
Jaguars, Bentleys and Porsches. Together with Lee
Westwood he even bought a $12 million private jet.
Playing at the level that Clarke has for so long means
that he could end up last and still walk away with a
$150,000 cheque at the end of it. Looking back now,
would he have done anything differently? “I’ve
tended to enjoy myself a little bit more than I should
have done, but then I wouldn’t have enjoyed the
journey so much. Would I change anything? No.”
25
EQUITY

COVER STORY
26
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COVER STORY
GETTING
into
CHARACTER
Jessica Biel touches upon some consequences of
the Harvey Weinstein scandal, her latest projects
and how time waits for no one
The stunning American actress Jessica Biel,
has been in the spotlight ever since she made
her breakthrough with the family-drama series
7th Heaven. We’ve seen her grow in front of
our eyes, taking on roles in The Illusionist, The A
Team, Hitchcock and most recently on the
Netflix drama The Sinner. Here Samantha Reyes
talks about her latest show, the Weinstein
scandal and upcoming projects.
I have seen the first episode of The Sinner,
and it’s incredibly interesting and
intriguing and unfortunately, I haven’t had
a chance yet to see the other episodes but I
must say, it’s certainly sparked my curiosity
because you are thinking, where can this
story go, how can it develop and how can
this character develop and unfold? So, I
would like to start with that, with you…
Well I was interested in the unreliable narrator. And
that is who this person is. She cannot be trusted
sometimes, and can’t even trust her own memory.
What she thinks is true, turns out to not be true. And
doesn’t know what is real and what isn’t. So that is
what initially struck me as very intriguing and
compelling. We developed this character through the
traumas of her past and how she became who she is
today and why she doesn’t know some of these things
that happened to her, and even why she thinks
something is one way and comes to find that it’s a
different way in reality. So, we spent a long time trying
to create this person who you cannot trust, but who
you like and can relate to in some way and who is not
a monster, even though she commits a heinous
crime, and is maybe someone that you are rooting
for. I think that is a very challenging combination of
elements and seems like something I would be
interested in sinking my teeth in a little bit.
IMAGES BY SHUTTERSTOCK ; WORDS BY SAMANTHA REYE / THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE
27
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COVER STORY
something that you don’t do in the first episode or two
yet, but for yourself as a woman, can you justify that?
I don’t think you can ever justify killing another human
being. I really believe that violence and vengeance is not
the answer, even if you are in the greatest pain of all and
you feel like that is the only thing that can cure it. In my
soul, as a human being, I know that that is not the answer.
And can I justify it for me? No, but when I think about
what the character went through and understand the
storyline and I think about the reality of that, I understand
why she did it and I think at the end of the story she also
understands why, but I don’t think even she justifies it. I
think she will be tortured her whole life because she says
very early on, I am not this person, I am not a killer and I
don’t know what this is within me. And I don’t think that
this is someone who goes on in their life and can feel good
about this ever.
So, we are talking about a series that might have another
season, or does it have a beginning or an end?
We initially really thought about it as a limited series even
though the way we leave it is slightly abrupt, we answer all
the questions and close out the case, my story at the end of
Season One. But with Bill Pullman’s character, we leave it a
little sort of ambiguous as to how does he move on and how
does he continue if we were going to continue this series?
And we have not gotten an official Season Two pickup yet,
but we have been talking a little bit about what that would
look like and still trying to put the pieces and what that is
and how, if at all, I am involved. Because if you do ever see
it, we conclude the story. So, we would have to work out the
details and figure out how my character returns.
I see you are a producer on several other films, from The
Book of Love to The Sure Game. How much do you like
to create and find your own projects? Is it hard in
Hollywood today for a woman or an actress to find
interesting roles?
It’s of the utmost importance to take control and take charge of
your career. We all need our managers and agents and I think
they are significant elements of someone’s career, but I have
How complicated was it to shoot, because we see you in
the beginning as sort of a mother and you are in jail and
you have a kind of a harsh character to play, isn’t it?
Yes, it was. It was emotionally the most exhausting, most
challenging thing I have ever done. It took its toll on me
every day, an isolating experience a bit, because like you
said, I spent a lot of time in this prison and in this set that
we created. And she is a very isolated person in general,
not a good communicator, doesn’t really know how to be
open around new people and barely knows how to be
around her own family. She is not the life of the party,
even though that was good for the character I am glad I
went through it. But, I was very happy to be finished with
it as it took a lot of my attention from my family and
personal life. What she experienced and went through was
a stressful experience for me, to be able to sort of really
tap in and understand what it would be like if I was going
through this, and it took me through the ringer a lot. A
wonderful experience and I am glad I did it, but I am very
glad to be done. (Laughs)
Did you find yourself being able to justify - and I am
sure we will understand by the end of this series -
Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake at the 89th Annual
Academy Awards held at the Hollywood and Highland
Center in Hollywood, USA on February 26, 2017.
28
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COVER STORY
29
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COVER STORY
The female community of women
right now feel very connected
all over the world.
found a lot of success and empowerment from
myself to take a greater responsibility in my own
career and not just sit and wait for someone to
bring something to me, but to get out there and
look for something that is interesting. To find
articles, dig through old books, talk to people and
learn about the world and human beings. I am
investigating for myself what is interesting and
what could be something special. And I think
whenever I produce something or get behind
something, I get to be part of the development of
it from the very beginning. It is just such a more
collaborative experience and I have so much more
invested and work a million times harder as I want
to succeed so badly, not just for myself, but for
everybody who have given their blood, sweat and
tears to make it come to fruition. And I just want
to be part of the team in that way. I think
sometimes as an actor, it’s also kind of a detaching
thing and you don’t really get told what is going on
or get asked your opinion. I have a lot to give and
say and I have a lot of opinions. I want to be part
of a team in that way, as opposed to just someone
in front of the camera. It’s a much more fulfilling
experience for me.
Jessica Biel at talk show appearance
for The Late Show
with David Letterman, Ed
Sullivan Theater, New York
June 7, 2010
We are all very taken with what has been going on as it unfolds,
even today, with Weinstein. Do you think this will lead to
change for women and men and are you optimistic that
this could bring something good?
Actress JESSICA BIEL, star of
"7th Heaven", at world premiere
of "Playing by Heart"
which stars Sean Connery &
Gillian Anderson.
I am optimistic, because if it doesn’t, then shame on all of us.
The seismic change must occur. There’s not a possibility in my
mind that it goes back to the way it does or that something big
doesn’t happen from this. Because I think the female
community of women right now feel very connected all over
the world, because we have all had experience like this, whether
it’s something small or something big and in some way. I think
there’s a real feeling of unity now and that it’s more detrimental
to keep your mouth shut than it is to speak up. So, I have so
much hope and optimism that this is going to be a seismic
earthquake that has hit this industry and hopefully every other
one, cause this is everywhere as we all know.
30
EQUITY

EDUCATION
Walking in a Winter
Wonderland
In the words of Jon Snow – or any other person of
relevance in Game Of Thrones – winter is here.
Unlike theirs though, ours is a lot less grim. Here are
some of the best activities for your child this winter
SHERATON ABU DHABI
When: December 17 - 28
(excluding December 22 and 23)
What’s included: The fun-packed
camp – for children aged between
four and 14 – includes water
sports, beach games, arts and
crafts, and fitness classes; all held
in the hotel’s plush palm tree resort
and health club.
Timing: 9am until 2pm
Price: Daily rate is Dhs200; five
days cost is Dhs850, while the full
ten-day rate is Dhs1,550 per child
What else you should know:
Parents are given free pool and beach
passes while the kids are at camp
To register, call +9712 6970 272 or
email sheraton.resort@sheraton.com to
reserve a spot
AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL
SPORTS RESORT
When: December 17 - January 4
What’s included: Whether it’s in the
driver’s seat or the saddle, you can be
rest assured that with the sports
resort’s professional eyes on them,
your kids are destined for glory.
Timing: 9am until 3pm
Price: Early Bird (7:30 to 9am) will
cost an additional Dhs20 while Late
Stay (3pm to 5:30pm) will cost an
additional Dhs30
What else you should know: The
resort has opened four new tennis
courts that will have your kids
serving aces in no time.
To register, call 800 AL FORSAN
(800-25367726) or email sales@
alforsan.com
CHILDREN’S OASIS NURSERY
When: December 17 - 21
What’s included: One of the best
British nurseries in Dubai,
Children’s Oasis Nursery will have
kids between the ages of 2 to 4+
years take part in a range of
activities including festive
decoration, and card making;
music and movement classes;
baking classes focused on festive
treats; and a festive party.
Timing: 8am until 5pm daily with
an option of a half-day session
from 8am until 2pm
Price: Starts at Dhs630 per child for
two half-days and Dhs730 per child
for two full-days, and runs to
Dhs1120 per child for five half-days
and Dhs1340 per child for five fullday
sessions.
What else you should know:
Mirroring the Nursery’s yearround
curriculum, the camp will
follow elements of the British
Early Years’ Foundation Stage
framework which focuses on a
play-based learning approach.
Visit childrensoasisnursery.com
FAIRMONT THE PALM
When: December 21 and 22
What’s included: Everything
from face painting, arts & crafts,
cookie decorating, wall climbing to
video games and Santa Clause;
Fairmont The Palm will have it all.
Timing: 5pm onwards
Price: Dhs120 per child
What else you should know:
There’s a 10 per cent sibling discount
available too
To register, call +9714 457 3331/email
palm.childrensactivities@fairmont.com
to reserve
31
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LOCAL STAR
sugar-free retail products that we supply to major
supermarkets in the UAE. This has given me a
deeper insight into the food industry, its dynamics,
and demands. I’m also launching DRYP, a new
sweat hub opening this month, that will offer hot
yoga, hot finesses classes along with detox
programs, and nutritious vegan food. I first tried
hot yoga when I moved to Dubai and it was love
from the first sweat – it changed my life completely
for the better. This practice that healed me on so
many levels to the point that I felt I needed to
share it with more and more people.
How did you see a niche in the market?
I am sort of an intuitive entrepreneur and I start
things up out of my own emotional or physical need.
These startups are close to my heart as I first consider
myself a customer before acting as a business mind.
When I first founded RAWR YOGA back in 2012, I
could see the potential demand for it as I myself was
so extremely impressed with this class and therefore
wanted to share it with others. This is how it had
always been with me and my startups, there is nothing
more to it – just pure passion.
What have been your major challenges till date?
Oh, I had quite a few all the way. I’ve had many
rejections, delays, and struggled with my own
personal money a lot as many entrepreneurs do
when they follow their dreams. Nothing ever goes
to plan, so sometimes it’s better not to have a plan
and rather learn to adapt as you go. At least this
was for me. You learn to grow a thick skin and
bounce back up faster.
#SUPPORTLOCAL
Meet Natasha Rudatsenko, professional
health nag and founder of Muncherie
Organic Food Co
Tell us about yourself?
I was born in Estonia, lived and studied in London and then
moved to Dubai about seven years ago. This is where my
health journey officially began, in this beloved city. I started to
be really health-conscious after my 25th birthday (I don’t
exactly recall why) and food became an important part of my
wellbeing philosophy. I am a health-obsessed entrepreneur and
being a professional health nag gives me great fulfillment.
You are the brains behind quite a few ventures - take us
through your journey.
I co-founded RAWR YOGA Studio in Dubai five years ago,
which I then sold to focus on my new endeavor Muncherie
Organic Food, the first all natural food producer in GCC.
The focus was on wholesome, preservative, gluten- dairy and
Have you secured funding or gearing up for
a round?
We did for DRYP, but not for Muncherie. I started
on my own with no partners and was developing it
for a year with just one other person in my team. In fact, one of
the investors pulled back two weeks before launching at
Waitrose and Spinneys, but miraculously (still I have no idea
how!) I was able to launch it on my own and operate for over
six months before I had a partner joining me. I have learnt a lot
about investments and fund raising over these few years – it’s a
valuable experience and will help me in the future for sure.
Any interesting launches rolling out this year?
Of course. It wouldn’t be my venture otherwise. I am currently
working on one of the breakthrough detox supplements. It is
going to be a phenomenal product; me, my friends and family
have tried and approved unanimously. It will be launched in
January 2018. This will help people with all kind of health
issues, weight loss and natural healing processes.
Where do you see the brand in the next five years?
I see DRYP being the number one chain for hot yoga classes
in the UAE, continuously encouraging people to obtain a
healthier lifestyle through fitness, nutritious, yet delicious
food, and regular smart and convenient detox programs.
32
EQUITY

ody
&
soul
The latest in fashion, beauty,
trends and decor. Need
inspiration for festive gifts?
Look no further than our
luxury gift guide that offers
something for him and her.
For holiday or investment
stimuli, explore Thailand
33
EQUITY

IN STYLE
S
FESTIVE
ALL EYES ON THESE
If you already wear an “evil eye” charm, chances are, you will
love the latest collaboration between Gigi Hadid and Stuart
Weitzman. The model was inspired by her personal
connection with the symbol and love for slides, combining
them to form the EYELOVE, a deep indigo-coloured ballet
style boasting one eye on the right foot of each silhouette,
and EYELOVEMORE with playful elements like the
multi-eye patterns on both shoes.
$498 (Dhs1,830) for the EYELOVE and $598 (Dhs2,195)
for the EYELOVEMORE. Visit stuartweitzman.com
HOP
talk
The stores to visit for
your next shopping haul
SHOPPING
Versace knows how to put a smile on
our faces during the holiday season. Their
signature print and iconic lettering
complements tropical and baroque
prints, making them apt as gifts or when
you’re hunting for something meaningful,
last minute. Take your pick from matching
fine silk bathrobes for yourself and the
girls, men’s leather accessories (bi-fold
wallets, card cases and belts), velvet slipons
for your other half, DV One
handbag for her, and a velvet backpack
with embellished crowns for teenage
girls, amongst many other options.
Going over to a festive party? Take along
a warm, musky-fragrance candle, or
porcelain from the I Baroque collection.
There’s something for everyone.
Available at Versace stores across the UAE
LUGGAGE GOALS
Ever try to cram things into your
suitcase, and wonder why the actual
bag probably weighs around five kgs?
Tumi’s Fall 2017 collection
celebrates the metropolis that is, New
York, with the launch of the 19
Degree collection of aluminum and
polycarbonate (PC) – it’s light as ever,
sturdy and sophisticated. International
Carry-On (36860), Short Trip Packing
Case (36864) and Extended Trip
Packing Case (36869) are the three
on offer, with aluminum assortment
featuring a reinforced framcase design.
Our favourite, and new to the
collection, is available in a teal-like blue
– making it easy to spot amongst the
sea of black baggage. Available at all
Tumi outlets
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TO BREAK THE RULES,
YOU MUST FIRST MASTER
THEM.
THE VALLÉE DE JOUX. FOR MILLENNIA A HARSH,
UNYIELDING ENVIRONMENT; AND SINCE 1875 THE
HOME OF AUDEMARS PIGUET, IN THE VILLAGE OF
LE BRASSUS. THE EARLY WATCHMAKERS WERE
SHAPED HERE, IN AWE OF THE FORCE OF NATURE
YET DRIVEN TO MASTER ITS MYSTERIES THROUGH
THE COMPLEX MECHANICS OF THEIR CRAFT. STILL
TODAY THIS PIONEERING SPIRIT INSPIRES US TO
CONSTANTLY CHALLENGE THE CONVENTIONS OF
FINE WATCHMAKING.
+41 21 642 32 66 | AUDEMARSPIGUET.COM
ROYAL OAK
PERPETUAL
CALENDAR
IN YELLOW GOLD
AUDEMARS PIGUET BOUTIQUES:
THE DUBAI MALL | MALL OF THE EMIRATES
35
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TRENDS
The
CHECKLIST
Chic picks to keep you vogueish this summer
TIS’ THE SEASON
The holidays are looming and Moda Operandi has
turned into gifting paradise for online shoppers. The
experts have curated a selection of gifts, with everything
from 24K gold envelope clutches for women, to cavalier
alligator duffle bags for men, and cashmere soft toys for
little ones. Let the clicking begin. Modaoperandi.com
36
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TRENDS
ART INSPIRED
Mira Hayek’s collections never fail
to amaze. The FW 17/18 collection
(12:01) pays tribute to French street
artist, Koralie, and comprises 22 looks
enthused by her signature personality
– the flamboyant geisha and
architectural landscapes. Koralie
stems inspiration from elements of
various cultures, such as braids from
Africa, curls from the English, Russian
dolls and Indian folklore, in her street
art. These take form in the collection’s
structured, aesthetically defining
pieces, with a palette featuring dusty
pink, pine green, plum, red and offwhite,
carefully chosen to embody
the grace of geishas. Delicate crepe,
laser- and hand-cut winter jersey, and
shimmer textured fabrics meet fine
stitching details on dresses,
outerwear and reversible pieces.
Visit mirahayek.com
#TRENDINGNOW
Our gift guide (p41)
offers plenty of stimuli,
but if you still can’t make
up your mind for your
man, this Suzanne Kalan
18K yellow gold and
diamond money clip
makes the perfect gift.
Besides, the best things
come in small packages.
Dhs25,7111 ($7,000).
Available
at
Bloomingdales, Harvey
Nichols and Sauce
Rocks in the UAE.
EYE SPY
Eccentric embellishments, a hint of sparkle, distinctive
shapes and exaggerated volumes take the light in Gucci’s
FW Women’s eyewear collection. For men, the retroinspired
classic is brought back to life with iconic metal
rivets and a bridge enriched with metal décor. Keep it
elegant and casual this season. Available across all Gucci
stores and points of sale in the Middle East.
37
EQUITY

Official Representative for
Bahrain - Kuwait - Oman - Qatar
Saudi Arabia - United Arab Emirates
Mangusta has been the undisputed leader in yachting fun for the past 30 years:
with its strength of character, timeless personal style
and experience in building dreams.
Today, Mangusta is a reference icon, a milestone in yachting fun since 1985,
and now availalbe throughout the GCC, distributed by DG Marine.
38
EQUITY
Motor City, Control Tower, 13th Floor, Studio 1302, Dubai - UAE
Mobile: +971 50 20 666 11 - Tel: +971 4 450 36 39
Email: greg@mangusta.ae - Website: www.mangusta.ae - Instagram: mangustayachts_me

INSIDE THE LOUVRE ABU DHABI
The $1.4 billion mega project that has transformed
Abu Dhabi into an international cultural hub
LAMBORGHINI’S SELF-HEALING
SUPERCAR CONCEPT
The Terzo Millennio is designed in collaboration
with MIT
ASTON MARTIN’S LUXURY
APARTMENTS IN MIAMI
The Aston Martin Residences will be ready by 2021
VIRGIN’S CRUISE SHIPS TO SET SAIL SOON
The first adult-only cruises will commence from
Miami in 2020
BOMBARDIER BUILDS
THE WORLD’S LARGEST BUSINESS JET
The Global 7000 is being dubbed as “The Architect”
Follow us on social media
EQUITYMEDIAUAE
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EQUITY

festive gift
THE ETERNAL MOVEMENT
Ulysse Nardin, from the movement of the sea to the perpetual
innovation of Haute Horlogerie. For over 170 years, the
powerful movement of the ocean has inspired Ulysse Nardin
in its singular quest: to push back the limits of mechanical
watchmaking, time and time again.
Marine Regatta
Chronograph
Countdown timer
Silicium technology
ulysse-nardin.com
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EQUITY
ULYSSE NARDIN BOUTIQUES: The Dubai Mall +971 44341421, Mall of the Emirates +971 43950577, Beirut Souks +961 1992092
Abu Dhabi: Al Manara International Jewellery Amman: Time Center Bahrain: Asia Jewellers Cairo: BTC Exclusive Doha: Ali Bin Ali
Jeddah: First Jewelry Kuwait: Morad Yousuf Behbehani Muscat: Le Carat Riyadh: First Jewelry

festive gift
mark cross
gold natural small
grace python box bag
It’s the bag of the season. Ticking all boxes for
its adorable size, texture, level of shimmer, and
overall chicness. Mark Cross is an American
luxury leather goods establishment, having
been founded in 1845, and later relaunched
in 2010. It’s no surprise the vintage-inspired
handbags – that look like an heirloom-piece
our grandmother would leave us – is arm
candy for celebrities including the likes of Kate
Bosworth, Taylor Swift, and cover star Jessica
Biel, to drop a few names. Only the finest of
materials are used to create each piece that’s
meticulously crafted in Italy.
This elegant python box bag boasts the brand’s
signature red-leather interiors with a zipped
compartment for cards and essentials. A girl can
never have enough bags, and we guarantee you
can take this piece from day, with a pair of skinny
jeans, to evening soirée in a silk dress.
Dhs17,000 at Harvey Nichols - Dubai
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EQUITY

festive gift
christian louboutin
lady peep strass
150 pump
This is the priciest pair on the Level Shoes
website, and for good reason. Christian Louboutin’s
red soles have a way of luring women
in, creating a seductive silhouette suitable for
just about any outfit. The elegant peep-toe is
adorned with shimmering silver crystals, and
boasts a heel that measure at 15cm (six inches)
and a platform of approximately three cm (one
inch). These stilettos sparkle from every angle,
a statement piece that’s sure to be a conversation
starter. One to wear this New Year’s Eve.
Dhs13,890 at levelshoes.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
o concept store
crystal-studded
stormtrooper helmet
George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise is set to
expand further come December 14 with the
addition of the Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Here’s
something you probably didn’t know about
the franchise: its fans love supporting the
good guys, but prefer collecting the dark side
memorabilia because, let’s face it, the dark
side is cooler. At the top of most Star Wars
fans’ lists is Darth Vader’s lightsabre followed
by a Stormtrooper costume. Maybe it is
unhealthy for an adult to covet toys so much
but if you know any that do, this Stormtrooper
helmet – created by Dutch artist Goofy
G – studded with nearly 54,000 Swarovski
crystals is the way to go.
$45,000 (Dhs165,000) at oconceptstore.ae
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EQUITY

festive gift
tiffany co
key pendants
There isn’t a woman whose face won’t lighten
up at the sight of the iconic blue box. There’s
something magical about the brand, its heritage
and statement jewellery. Tiffany & Co are known
for certain signature pieces that have stood the
test of time – their solitaire engagement rings,
locks, charm bracelets and keys, a lady could go
on. Want to give her the key to your heart? Do
it with the stunning petals key pendant in 18k
yellow gold or Victoria key pendant in 18k rose
gold with diamonds. Diamonds and Tiffany’s – a
match made in heaven.
Tiffany Keys petals key pendant in 18k yellow
gold is Dhs35,100 and Tiffany Victoria® key
pendant in 18k rose gold is Dhs26,200.
Visit Tiffany.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
montblanc
high ar tistry homage
to hannibal barca
limited edition 1
Montblanc likes to honour figures of stature
when producing limited-edition pens, which is
why its eye-watering €1.5 million writing piece
named High Artistry Homage to Hannibal Barca
Limited Edition 1 shouldn’t raise many eyebrows.
The instrument’s grandeur, however, is
sure to pique everyone’s interest. Limited to
just one piece worldwide, it features a dazzling
combination of white-gold and diamonds with
a full pave of blue sapphire and embellished
with individual rows of carée cut individual
diamonds. The pen sports an elephant trunk
clip whose head is crowned with a magnificent
6.03-carat brilliant cut DFL diamond and also
boasts an AU750 solid gold nib with designs
that pay homage to the Carthaginian deity
Baal’Hammon. Will it be yours?
$1,800,000 (Dhs6,611,400) at montblanc.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
richard mille
rm055
yas marina circuit
Avant-garde watchmaker Richard Mille has a
deeply ingrained relationship with sports. Its
roll-call of ambassadors include strictly top-tier
professionals from Rafael Nadal and Alain Prost
to Yohan Blake and Bubba Watson. RM has also
partnered with the iconic Yas Marina Circuit in
Abu Dhabi ever since it hosted its inaugural race
in 2009. This year, the watchmaker unveiled
a special-edition timepiece, the RM055 Yas
Marina Circuit, which is limited to just 50 pieces.
It’s dressed in the colours of the track and the
circuit’s logo is placed on the sapphire caseback.
The skeletonized mechanical movement is
made of titanium and the case from carbon
fibre – it’s tougher than you ever will be.
Price on request. Available at richardmille.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
aston mar tin
storck fascenario.3
aston mar tin edition
We’d imagine that if James Bond ever wanted
to swap his favourite set of four wheels for
two, this is what he’d settle on. Incredibly,
the nanocarbon frame weighs just 770grams.
With bleeding-edge engineering know-how
being put into play in the construction of this
bicycle, the weight of every other component
on it including the Pirelli P-Zero tyres has been
kept to a bare minimum, resulting in an overall
weight of 5.9kgs. The wireless gear shifts
are operated using “paddles” built along the
brakes on the handlebar. Limited to just 107
pieces, we’d wager that if you aren’t already
on the list for one by the time you’ve read this,
you’re already too late.
$21,000 (Dhs77,000) at astonmartin.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
rolls-royce
phantom viii
The first Phantom debuted back in 1925. Now in its
ninth decade, it is the world’s longest continuously inproduction
car. Favoured by royalty, actors and rock
stars, it’s been a mainstay on the red carpet for much
of its existence. Rolls-Royce developed and installed an
all-new aluminium space frame for the eight generation
of the Phantom which will now be used in every car the
company makes from here on. It claims that this is also
the world’s most silent car with sound-deadening material
worked into the tyres and into the body. The cavernous
cabin is nothing short of a penthouse on wheels
with only the softest leather, fluffiest carpet and finest
wood found all over. A special glass dashboard allows
for customized artwork too. The dealmaker: A 6.8-litre
V12 capable of commanding 563 thoroughbreds and a
0-100kph time of just over five seconds.
From $530,000 (Dhs1.95 million) at rolls-roycemotorcars.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
ermenegildo zegna
bespoke atelier,
milan
Made-to-measure is a great alternative to the ill-fitting offthe-rack
suits meant only for fratboys. But if you want to step
up your suit game a notch higher and channel Don Draper, it
has to bespoke. Enter Ermenegildo Zegna who started their
first-ever bespoke service earlier this year. Operating out of
a brand-new atelier in Milan, a master tailor creates bespoke
suits, shirts, knitwear, shoes and sportswear too. It takes about
75 hours to craft a bespoke suit and at least four meetings with
your tailor. If you can’t make it, and have a sizeable budget,
Zegna will even fly down its tailor to your doorstep to meet
you anywhere in the world.
A bespoke suit starts from $5,000 (Dhs18,300) at zegna.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
Taking time out for yourself, to heal your body, rejuvenate
skin, mind and senses, is essential. In fact, your
health is the most integral part of life. Without that you
can’t achieve the things you hope to – especially if your
months are chock-a-block with events, meetings and jetting
across the globe to meet with business associates.
Those who are 30 and over can make their next trip
to Monte-Carlo a wellness-packed holiday by opting for
the Quality Ageing package, to help maintain a youthful
glow and bring your body back to a healthier state.
The package comprises a four-night stay at the double
room, inclusive of breakfast, four lunches at the
Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo restaurant, L’Hirondelle,
over two-and-a-half-hours of manual and technologiquality
ageing package
hôtel de
paris monte-carlo
cal treatments per day, medical and bio-impedance
analysis to measure body composition – fat, muscle
mass, water content, etc., and an aesthetic- and micro
nutritional-analysis. In addition, guests can attend
fitness classes, indulge in a Turkish bath and stick to
their cardio-routine and the Technogym bodybuilding
area, which boasts views of the sea. Each guest is also
given the Cercle Monte-Carlo card to access the Casino
de Monte-Carlo, gain discounts at the golf and country
club, and unlimited access to the Beach Club. You can’t
visit Monte-Carlo and not pack in a bit adventure, sport
and shopping while away.
From Dhs11,470 for a double room, and Dhs14,500 for
a single room. Visit hoteldeparismontecarlo.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
signature
villas
frond d villa
palm jumeirah
dubai
Why bother with partying in Ibiza when you’re in
Dubai? This luxury villa on Palm Jumeirah Dubai is
quite possibly the city’s ultimate party pad. The 46,000
square foot pad is serious #housegoals with 11 bedrooms,
16 bathrooms and a stretch of the Palm’s private
beach. Sounds like just any other lavish home
so far, right? Well, the abode boasts a 16-seat cinema
and a nightclub that can accommodate 200 people.
Your house parties will never be the same.
$54.5 million (Dhs200 million) at gulfsothebysrealty.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
virgin galactic
spaceshiptwo
A holiday in Europe is great, but if you really want to have an out of this
world experience, why not literally go out of this world? That seems to be
the idea behind the Richard Branson-owned Virgin Galactic that has developed
suborbital vehicle known as the SpaceShipTwo. The SpaceShipTwo is
a winged spacecraft and with the exception of the rocket motor’s fuel and
oxidiser – which must be replenished after each flight – is fully-reusable.
Long story short, the flight takes you 109 kilometres above Earth. Not to tell
you how to spring the surprise but imagine passing these on as a gift with
Frank Sinatra’s “Come Fly With Me” playing in the background. You have
officially won Christmas.
$250,000 (Dhs918,250) at virgingalactic.com
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EQUITY

festive gift
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ASIA JEWELLERS, BAHRAIN I ATAMIAN, LEBANON I BEHBEHANI, KUWAIT I BLUE SALON, QATAR
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EQUITY

WELLNESS
INDULGE YOURSELF
Tried-and-tested experiences of the month
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EQUITY
The venue: JOSE EBER LA LOGE
The service: Deep cleansing facial
The verdict: Hollywood celebrities count the
Beverly Hills, California outpost, as one of their go-to
spots for a date with French hairstylist José Eber.
Visiting his salon, tucked away at The Address
Montgomerie, was one to check off the list. However,
instead of a glamorous blow-dry and hair treatment, I
opted for a deep cleansing facial, to combat any probable
changes to skin due to weather conditions.
I was taken to the facial room, where I slipped into a
comfortable silk robe and jumped into bed to get my skin
analysed. After washing the face multiple times to rid every
trace of makeup, a bright light shone on my face, with my
skin being tugged and pulled to get a closer look at pores
and requirements. I was told the Laloge Beauty facial would
be ideal, to renew and deeply hydrate the skin. To begin,
the therapist applied a fruit-aroma enzyme peel that
tightened after a few seconds, and was later scrubbed off
with a warm water towel. This was followed by a bacterialcleansing
solution to prep the skin for the crystal-powder
vacuum. I was keen to open my eyes and see the magic
taking place. However, since I couldn’t, I relied on my senses
to feel and imagine. Here’s what happened - crystal powder
comes through the vacuum, and a slight burning sensation is
felt on the area being vacuumed. Dry skin cells are extracted
and mixed with the crystal powders, of which a slight dry/
gritty residue remains on the skin. The small vacuum goes
from your forehead, all the way down to the neck to get rid
of dead skin cells, while allowing skin to be renewed. Skin
renewal is a must – as mentioned by the therapist – as
Need to know:
The Laloge
Beauty Facial is
Dhs750, contact
+971 4 452 9328
without it, my skin refuses to soak up daily moisturizer and
serums to let it penetrate through the layers. My face was
cleansed once again with warm water, followed by
blackhead extraction, and a bacterial-preventing ointment.
Serum was then massaged into the skin, followed with an
ice-cooling algae, oat and apple-extract mask that hardened
and peeled off like an Instagram-worthy rubber mask. This
was placed on to soothe, firm, deeply moisturise and
hydrate the skin, and did the job promptly. The treatment
ended with an application of moisturizer, after which my
skin felt absolutely fresh and cleansed.

WELLNESS
Need to know:
The venue: SUGAR BEAUTY LOUNGE, The Deep Body Buff
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
is Dhs270, visit
The service: Body scrub
sugarbeautylounge.com
The verdict: There is nothing more relaxing
and refreshing than a body scrub after a long
day at the office. I made my way to Sugar Beauty Lounge
in Dubai Sports City to experience just that. After a
refreshing welcome drink, the staff were happy to
show me around the different sections of the spa.
These include a massage and body scrub room, waxing
section and dedicated spaces for a nail spa as well as a
hair-styling space.
Relaxation is encouraged, and I inhaled the ocean mist
aromas that wafts through the air inside the salon. My
therapist begins the Deep Body Buff treatment. An
exfoliating mineral body scrub mixed with blueberry and
vanilla is applied from my neck to toes to slough off dead
skin cells. I shower immediately after, and although my
skin feels much softer and lighter already, it’s not yet the
end of my treatment. I lie down again and she applies a
dead sea mineral mask all over my body and wraps me in
a towel. After ten minutes, I’m off for a shower once again
to wash away the mask.
To conclude, she gives me a full body massage which
ensures that muscles feel as relaxed as my skin does. With
a copious amount of body butter moisturizer rubbed into
my skin, I felt physically prepped to tackle another hectic
week at work.
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EQUITY

GASTRONOMY
WEEKEND DINING
An experience, brunches and a nocturnal hotspot you can’t miss this month
An experience
1
KOHANTEI
DUBAI OPERA DISTRICT, PLAZA UNIT 6
The concept of Kaiseiki (a traditional multi-course dinner
served in easy-to-eat portions) is new to the region. However,
it originated in Buddhist monasteries when meals were served
at the tea ceremony. It later evolved to an elaborate dining
style popular amongst aristocratic circles.
This hidden gem tucked away in a complex building right in
front of the Dubai Opera offers an authentic Japanese experience
that transports you to centuries ago, in a Kill Bill setting, as
described by my dining partner. Shoes need to be left at the
door, and you can walk around the restaurant barefoot, to head
to your table – low-tables and seating or a sunken-table with
cushions as seating. If you do want to step outside or into the
high-tech washroom, you can slip on wooden slippers.
We decided to try two different menus and share dishes to
get a taste of the menu. A la carte options aren’t available here,
as the produce dictates the offerings for the day/week ahead.
Seasonal Japanese seafood, premium meats, fruit and
vegetables are flown in every Wednesday, offering only the
highest possible quality ingredients. All dishes are presented
beautifully with crisp seafood topped with caramelized onions,
warm spinach topped with bonito flakes in a shimeji mushroom
soup and egg tofu being the first dish. My dining partner’s grilled
tuna was perfect, with the same spinach soup, and edamame
tofu that was solid yet gooey in texture, quite sublime. Up next
was a bowl of mushroom soup with tender wagyu beef and
lotus root, a robust mixture that’s comforting and the perfect
home-style remedy for those trying to beat flu season. A plate
of sashimi was then placed before both of us. Mine comprised
two pieces of tuna, cuttlefish – slightly chewy, almost like squid
– and yellowtail. I couldn’t help myself from stealing a piece of
smooth-on-the-palate flounder, and toro – fatty sashimi that
melts on your tongue instantly – from my partner. A marble
slate of raw meat, bright with plenty of marbling, was presented
to us to let us know we’d be having a succulent Sentai (Japanese
food grade A5), Miyagi A3 – just as much marbling as the A5 –
and teriyaki beef that complements the salt and wasabi mix
perfectly. Potato and zucchini slices are served alongside for a
bit of vegetables. Bejamin Ng, the founder of the restaurant
stopped by during this course, revealing his passion for the
venture, stories on relationships with each and every produce
supplier, and mysterious accounts of how the premium meat
served to us was a tale right from, you guessed it, Kill Bill – he
had to get the permission and approval from certain
organisations, to be able to import and serve the meat. As we
chatted, we realized our meat didn’t harden the slightest bit,
and Ben tells us his entrance at the moment was purely
intentional. His exit, not so much – the staff nudged him a bit
to let us carry on with the meal. A cold dish of meat doused in
miso sauce with cabbage rolls and tomato jelly was presented
– flavorsome and fresh. I was ready for the rice bowl by this
point and mine had juicy chunks of mixed wagyu that were soft
and fleshy. My dining partner was treated to a plate of nigiri.
After a multi-course meal, something sweet with a punch of
flavour is necessary. My partner chomped on fresh persimmon,
while I relished stretchy, gooey black sesame ice cream. Can’t
leave without a cup of green tea.
Need to know: The multi-course menus range from
Dhs350 (for six courses) to Dhs1,100 per person
(for eight courses). Call +9714 243 4951
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EQUITY

GASTRONOMY
2 YUAN
3
THE AVENUES, ATLANTIS THE PALM
FARRIERS RESTAURANT
THE MEYDAN HOTEL
Intimate brunch
Family friendly
You may want to sneak in a morning workout at the gym
before heading to the Yum Cha brunch. The menu is
elaborate, cocktails refreshing and eclectic, and offerings,
sumptuous. A menu (more like a mini booklet) is
presented for you to pick the dishes you want to try from
each category, it begins with the dim sum trolley featuring
three steamed dishes – try the barbecued chicken bun
that’s slightly sweet with a warm chicken mixture inside
and salad. Up next, we opted for steamed shrimp dumpling
with shrimp and tobiko for a little crunch, and steamed
scallops that beautifully melted with each bite. You can’t
go wrong with roast duck rolls at an Asian restaurant. This
highly recommended protein was sublime – crisp duck
with a hint of sweetness from the fruit and nutty texture
from slivers of almonds. The list is extensive, with over
eight to 12 options for each category. And, you can find
everything from vegetarian options to seafood. We turned
the page over, and to our surprise landed on the main
course dishes (silly us for thinking all these were mains!).
Since we gorged on tons of gluten and carb-heavy
dumplings, we opted for sweet and sour fish fillet –
beautifully done, meaty and tender – with a side of ‘You
Mai Cai’ Chinese lettuce, that hails from a province in
China and adds in a healthy touch when doused in a simple
garlic sauce. A side of fried rice with ginger and chunky
pieces of crab meat are a must as a side, to soak up all the
sauces from the fish. There are over nine noodle and rice
dishes to choose from, alongside mains showcasing
everything from chicken in a clay pot to bean curd and
vegetarian options. Since we were bursting at the seams,
we opted for mango sago with pomelo for a fresh, sweet
end to brunch.
The Friday brunch with views of the racecourse is back in full
swing. While there are many brunches that cater to little
ones, very few stand out, not only for the offerings but
activities too. The Meydan Friday Family Brunch is definitely
one of the best picks from the bunch, with plenty on offer for
children, to the point where you can drop them off at noon,
check up on them ever so often – they’ll be taken care off by
experts – and enjoy brunch with the grown-ups. And you
don’t have to worry about them eating. Sliders, popcorn,
candy floss, are just some of the items they can help
themselves to at the kids’ corner, while they get wowed by
the magic show and play with sand art.
Adults can commence brunch at the creative cocktail or
healthy juice stations, before embarking on a culinary journey,
trying everything from Asian to Middle Eastern and European
delicacies. We started with fresh salads and a helping of crisp
fish and chips, before treating ourselves to a plate of crab and
spicy tuna maki rolls. The peking duck station caught our eyes
and we helped ourselves to sublime crisp roast duck with
plum and peanut sauce, all rolled up in a pancake. Aromas
from the Chinese live wok station beckoned, with orange
chicken, noodles and fried rice being served. There’s plenty to
try at the 14 live-cooking stations including a saj and shawarma
station, tandoor, protein (prawns, chicken, meat) cooked to
your liking, Arabic mezze, a butchers’ block carvery, and
freshly prepared pasta. Whatever you do, leave space for the
divine warm and comforting rhubarb crumble, the perfect
balance of tangy and sweet, and sticky date pudding – we
went in for seconds! You can choose to sit indoors and sing
along to Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and hits from the threepiece
band, or outdoors on the terrace with a plate of cheese
to end the afternoon.
Need to know: Every Friday. Dhs188 for the soft drink
package, Dhs388 with alcohol and Dhs94 for children
between four-11 year’s old. Call +9714 426 2626
Need to know: Every Friday. From Dhs290-590
per person, Dhs155 for children between five-12 and
free for children below four. Call +9714 381 3111
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EQUITY

GASTRONOMY
…AND TWO TO TRY!
Nocturnal hotspot
4
GALVIN DUBAI
CITYWALK 2
When news of the Michelin-starred Galvin Brothers setting up shop
in Dubai first broke about, we were thrilled. It began with their
Parisian-style café Demoiselle by Galvin, within the vicinity, followed
by this fine dining eatery at The Square. And they’ve opened just in
time for alfresco season. Boasting seating both indoors and outdoors,
the restaurant terrace mimics a European-style vibe, while indoors,
décor exudes a sophisticated British charm. Emerald-tone couches,
velvet textures and a touch of gold are noticeable, with simple dark
brown wooden tables that complement the grandeur. The menu
showcases the best of British fare with a Mediterranean touch.
Our chosen appetiser was a plate of meaty escargot with a crunch
topping and the Galvin Brother’s signature dish that has stood the
test of time, Lasagne of Devon crab. Morsels of chunky crab meat
were encased between layers of lasagna, all drenched in a moreish
creamy foam-like bisque. Since my dining partner and I are
meat-lovers, we opted for the Côte de boeuf for two to share,
which arrived with a side of delicious carb-loaded truffle macaroni
and cheese. The thick bone-in rib steak was sliced tableside and
had just the right amount of fat to balance the meat. On our plates, it
sliced beautifully and was even more relishable with Hermitage
jus drizzled all over – we love a well-made jus. For dessert, we
couldn’t resist a cult favourite, chocolate fondant, with warm
chocolate sauce oozing out.
Need to know: The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
Call +9714 590 5444
SCARLET CARDINAL
SOFITEL DUBAI JUMEIRAH BEACH
Music-lovers will enjoy this bar-meets-club
theatre setting, with all eyes on the stage.
For a fun night out with friends, live music
and a theme that’s worth dressing up for,
look no further. The menu features a
selection of starters featuring foie gras
terrine with fig chutney and gingerbread
(how festive!) as well as Oysters fines de
Claire. For mains, lamb chops, salmon with
lemon butter sauce or shrimp Provençale
may take your fancy. End the evening with a
dessert – raspberry millefeuille, apple tart
and a chocolate brownie are some to
choose from. Call +97156 222 9914
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
THE ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA
Picking a Christmas menu and the perfect
location to enjoy a great meal on the day can
be a tricky task, especially for those who
have family visiting. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
has the menu to suit vegetarians, pescetarians
and meat-lovers. Begin the meal with a
welcome drink, followed by an aromatic
Northwest snow crab bisque with flavours
that linger on your palate, or a fresh smoked
duck breast salad. Flavoursome slow-cooked
meat is showcased in osso buco ravioli with
tender cremini mushrooms in a creamy
ragout. For entrées, take your pick from a
petite filet with foie gras and black winter
truffle, barbecue spiced salmon with roasted
fennel, stuffed chicken with dried fruit, and
the highlight of most dinner tables – turkey
with all the trimmings (fire roasted corn with
a moreish garlic butter, roasted Brussel
sprouts tossed in honey butter, and
rosemary baby roasted potatoes) with
cranberry jelly. Forget about calorie-counting
and dig into a decadent white chocolate
bread pudding with custard to feast. Dhs450
per person, call +9714 454 9538
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EQUITY

Dubai’s only high-end real estate and interior design company,
setting extraordinary records in the marketing, designing and
selling of the most important residential properties.
Office 804-806, Arenco Tower, Dubai Media City | 04 432 79 72 | www.luxhabitat.ae
59
EQUITY

TRAVEL
A TALE OF
TWO ISLANDS
You hear about Thailand being the go-to destination for bachelor parties,
but here’s why you probably should look at the tropical nation’s
smaller islands for a getaway
By Meryl D’souza
Proposals are hard. For
the longest time, I
never even thought
much of the tradition.
Always figured it was a tacky
little charade choreographed by
attention-hungry couples. You
know the type, they’re flooding
your Instagram feed right now.
Besides, my girlfriend and I knew
we were going to get married at
some point. We discussed the
event of our marriage at great
length. A grand romantic gesture
just felt unnecessary. All that
changed after a double date with
a happily married friend.
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TRAVEL
The couple in question were set up by
their respective parents. They still had a
final say on whether or not they wanted
to go through with the ritual, but for all
intents and purposes, the marriage was
arranged. You wouldn’t be able to tell
they were put through the rigours of an
arranged marriage if you met them.
Despite being a couple very much in
love, the one complaint the wife had
was that her husband never actually
proposed to her. He denied her of that
“great proposal story every woman
wants to have”. Even in this century
where we’re all about empowerment,
equal rights and not treating our
women like trophies, you ask? Yes. My
girlfriend agreed as well.
Not wanting to be the antagonist in
stories like that, I set about plotting a
grand romantic gesture, one that I’m
quite proud of. The idea, once formed,
didn’t take much to execute. I stalked
her boss, got her boss to approve a
couple of days off work, booked
tickets, took an extra day off myself so
that I could pack her bags, picked her
up straight from work and whisked her
off to Thailand. Like I said, proposals
are hard, but the expectation and
pressure to stand out from the rest
and do something different, is harder.
First stop:
ANANTARA BOPHUT
KOH SAMUI RESORT
Go here if: You’re a trendy urban
dweller looking to get the best of
both worlds.
While the girlfriend didn’t know where
we were headed when we landed at
Koh Samui, both of us didn’t know
what to expect when we reached the
hotel. That’s perhaps a good thing. A
mere ten-minute drive from Samui’s
international airport, the resort is
essentially a lush tropical garden set
around a pond filled with lotus leaves.
A charming wood-panelled bridge
connects the main road to the hotel
reception. During my short stay there, I
often thought of that portion of the
hotel as the portal that transports you
from the mini-city’s raging traffic to the
hotel’s calm-inducing paradise. The
sight is especially breath-taking when
you consider the fact that the hotel is
located about a two-minute walk from
Fisherman’s Village – the most
commercialised space on the Island.
A welcome drink and cold towel
later, we were ushered towards our
Sea View Room. Designed in classic
Thai-style, the room featured dark
wood furnishings, ceiling fans and a
large, spotless and elegant bathroom.
The hotel went the extra mile with a
personalised welcome message on the
bathroom mirror. Hospitality is not
work for these guys, it comes naturally.
The resort features 106 rooms, an
impressive spa that could easily have
been the inspiration for that Temple
Run mobile game, a gym, a steam
room, a tennis court and – the
highlight of the hotel – a freeform
infinity pool flanked by sun loungers,
monkey fountains, and a pool bar.
The pool almost trespasses onto
the beach where paddle boards,
kayaks and windsurfing boards are
available free of charge. It’s the kind
of setting adventure junkies-cum-
Instagram celebrities dream of.
The hotel also boasts three exquisite
eateries. The al fresco High Tide serves
breakfast and dinner with a menu that
offers both international and Thai
selections. The Eclipse Bar serves lunch
and dinner, with a similar menu.
Anantara Bophut’s flagship restaurant,
Full Moon Samui, is perched on stilts
above the pool bar and specialises in
chargrilled items during lunch and
dinner sittings. I opted for the Australian
Black Angus Tenderloin at lunch. It’s a
delicious sedative and fell perfectly in
line with my siesta plans. #NoRegrets
#VacationCaloriesDontCount
The hidden gem among the
restaurants, however, is Dining by
Design – a private restaurant for two,
perfect for anyone wishing to bend the
knee and pop the question. The
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TRAVEL
Need to know:
From $300 per night
at the Sea View Suite
at Anantara Bophut
Koh Samui. For more
information visit
samui.anantara.com
exclusive, purposely built “Salas” came
with a private waitress and chef. It’s a
dinner date straight out of a movie
complete with flower petals and candles
in the sand. Imagine that with a sunset
backdrop. Few proposals can match that
level of romantic. The food, as you’d
expect, is consistently excellent from
presentation to taste. The undisputed
winner, however, was the dessert. It
wasn’t given a name, but it was basically a
Baked Alaska on a bed of Samui’s finest
tropical fruits. No other dessert comes
remotely close. Our waitress, Bell, was
engaging and helpful. In truth, she was
more excited than the two of us.
Especially when it came to taking pictures.
Plus, she helped me with brownie points
by telling my now fiancée how luck she is
to have someone go through all this
trouble for her.
WHAT MORE TO DO IN KOH SAMUI?
Visit: WAT PHRA YAI
The Buddhist temple known as Big
Buddha Temple is home to a 39-foot
tall gold-painted Buddha statue.
Visit: WAT KHUNARAM
Another Buddhist temple that is home
to the shrine of "the Mummy Monk",
Luang Pho Daeng, died in 1973 and
directed that his body be put on display
as a reminder of the transience of
human existence.
Eat at: KRUA BOPHUT
Anantara Bophut has the best
restaurants in town, but should you feel
the urge to try something outside the
confines of the hotel, hit Krua Bophut in
Fisherman’s village. Thank me later.
Try: CHILLI-FLAVOURED ICE CREAM
Leonardo Gelateria Italiana is dubbed
the best gelato in Koh Samui. I tried the
chilli-flavoured ice cream that burns the
throat similar to taking a shot of tequila.
Shop at: FISHERMAN’S VILLAGE
FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET
Any other day of the week, this place is a
graveyard. Come Friday, it’s the place to
be. The stalls offer just about anything
you could think of. Just make sure you’re
no novice in the dark arts of haggling.
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Second stop:
ANANTARA RASANANDA
KOH PHANGAN VILLAS
Go here if: You’re looking to relax
and cut off from the rest of the world.
A 35-minute speedboat drive from
Koh Samui lies the island of Koh
Phagan, famed for its monthly Full
Moon Party. The Anantara Rasananda
Koh Phangan Villas is a further,
zigzagging 30-minute drive from the
island’s pier. Anantara’s Rasananda
property lies smack in the middle of
the Thong Nai Pan Noi beach. The
island is in stark contrast to Samui
and is largely undeveloped. This gives
Anantara Rasananda a sense of
exclusivity. You’re best served to put
your watch away as soon as you set
foot on the island. It’s laid back and
there’s no place for haste.
The hotel staff were notified of our
engagement and even had a couple
of surprises for us on our arrival. That
exclusive aura continued within the
hotel too. The villas featured bamboo
fences and carved gates. Each villa is
separated by tropical vegetation with
narrow wooden bridges connecting
the property. Our Pool suite, which
featured a high ceiling, wooden
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TRAVEL
Need to know:
From $300 per night at
the Sea View Suite at
Anantara Rasananda
Koh Phangan Villas.
For more
information visit
phangan-rasananda.
anantara.com
furniture and polished wood floors
while the bed was covered in
congratulatory messages.
All 64 rooms and suites at Anantara
Rasananda come with private plunge
pools. Like Anantara Bophut, there is a
beachfront infinity swimming pool
with its own pool bar. The highlight at
Rasananda, however, is the Signature
Spa that’s constructed on rocks
rising from the forest floor, resembling
little treehouses.
Rasananda boasts two restaurants:
Bistro at the Beach offers all-day dining
while Yukinoya, a Teppanyaki-style
Japanese restaurant that also serves
sushi – a rare treat on Koh Phangan.
While Rasananda, like Bophut, also
features the incredible Dining by
Design alternative, we decided to give
Anantara’s cooking school Spice
Spoons a go. Not culinarily inclined,
we took close to four hours to serve
ourselves lunch, but our teacher was
patient enough to go through it with a
bright smile plastered on his face even
when I undercooked my chicken on
the first go. Thankfully, not all chefs
are as irate as Gordon Ramsay.
The proposal getaway had all the
ingredients in place to either be
memorable or simply blow up in my
face. The biggest challenge was my
fiancé finding out what I had in store
for the Dining by Design dinner.
Another challenge I had was the
weather. You see, October is the
beginning of monsoon season. The
WHAT MORE TO DO IN
KOH PHANGAN?
Visit: MU KO ANG THONG
NATIONAL MARINE PARK
Spend your entire day kayaking and
snorkelling in turquoise waters,
on nature trails, rock climbing and
cave hunting.
Visit: AMSTERDAM BAR
Getting there is a bit of a hike: a hundred
or so steps up the side of a mountain. It’s
worth the climb though.
big romantic gesture wouldn’t be as
grand if I did it in just another
restaurant. Ultimately, the rain Gods
showed mercy but even if they didn’t
play along, the efficient staff at
Anantara already had a backup in
store. Nevertheless, I did give my
fiancée the “great proposal story
every woman wants to have”. And
even if no one else will, I’ll keep telling
myself it was a job well done.
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THE HOME OF PRIVATE AVIATION
AT THE SPEED OF BUSINESS
Passion for excellence is our trademark. In everything we do, our goal
is to meet and surpass your expectations. Our highly trained staff are
always on hand to ensure your complete satisfaction, both on the ground
and in the air. Our unrivalled facilities located at Dubai World Central
guarantee your utmost discretion, comfort and convenience
every time you fly.
T: +971 (0)4 870 1800 | www.dc-aviation.ae | An Al-Futtaim Joint Venture
Al Maktoum International Airport | DWC | Aviation District | Dubai, UAE
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TRAVEL TALES
JETSETTER JOURNEYS
The latest in experiences, tours and wellbeing breaks
HOSPITALITY MEETS FASHION
Calling all fashion-lovers! Yves Saint Laurent’s
work is now on display at his namesake museum
in Marrakech, showcasing a significant selection
from the foundation Pierre Bergé. The
remarkable collection comprises 5,000 items of
clothing, 15,000 haute couture accessories as
well as sketches and assorted articles. In light of
the museum inauguration, Royal Mansour have
launched a YSL Museum package inclusive of a
two-night stay in a Superior Riad, a fine-dining
experience at La Grande Table Marocaine and
complimentary access to the YSL museum,
Berber museum and the renowned Jardin
Majorelle. Need an extension on your museum
experience? Enjoy a private guided visit of the
Villa Oasis, and Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre
Bergé’s private’s house by donating Dhs9,363.
Royal Mansour’s YSL package starts from
Dhs10,142 per stay, for two people. Visit
royalmansour.com
NEW HEIGHTS
Spending the festive holidays in New York? Check into
the newly launched Presidential Suite by Roche Bobois at
The Langham on Fifth Avenue. The two-bedroom suite
on the 27th floor features the ultimate in luxury and
culinary exclusivity – where else can you enjoy a Michelinstarred
restaurant’s fare in your guest room? Some of the
other highlights include a pantry and mini bar curated by
the renowned chef Michael White, a comprehensive
menu from Ai Fiori at your service, and a private chef
experience. Visit langhamhotels.com/newyork
WHITE CHRISTMAS
ʻTis the season to be jolly, and what better way to do so
than in the Swiss Alps’, with crisp air that touches the
skin and fun on the slopes. Giardino Mountain. St. Moritz
are re-opening their doors this season (from December
14). Pack your bags and head to the quaint village of
Champfèr for winter festivities, copious amounts of hot
chocolate and mulled grape, snow sports, hiking,
rejuvenating Ayurveda treatments to recoup and
Alpine-style living. Visit www.giardino-mountain.ch
TROPICAL PARADISE
Renowned interior designer Kelly Hoppen MBE and
Mauritian architect Jean-Francois Adam are the
masterminds behind LUX* Grand Gaube’s fresh look.
The revamped hotel in Mauritius flanks two beaches,
and boasts tropical gardens, offerings for avid gourmands
– think, Creole cured fish, Peruvian ceviche and
authentic Turkish kebabs and mezze – and an indoor
cinema for movie screenings. Those worried about
falling off the fitness bandwagon can visit the tennis
academy, practice yoga and sweat it out at the open-air
Callisthenic workout programmes. The resort also
features a spa and sea-facing driving range, and has
partnered with the Mont Choisy 18-hole golf course –
just 15 minutes away. Will you be celebrating New
Year’s Eve by the sun and sea? Visit luxresorts.com
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HOTEL REVIEW
STAY
OF THE
MONTH
Bab Al Qasr brings a full-fledged
Morrocan experience to the
capital’s hospitality industry
Bab Al Qasr, the newest
five-star property to open
its doors in the capital, is
one of the most Arabesque
hotels in the UAE. Located next door
to Jumeirah Etihad Towers, directly
opposite Emirates Palace, and within
close proximity to one of the city’s
best private beaches, the welcome is
attentive, check-in swift, and staff
incredibly helpful.
The awe-inspiring lobby with vaulted
ceilings has full-sized palm trees set into
the marble floors alongside a water
body – akin to an oasis in the desert. As
for the rooms itself, I checked into the
Junior Suite King room that’s set in
contemporary Arabian style with a hint
of Moroccan spirit. The room has an
open-plan living area, spacious
bathroom and an unbeatable view of
Emirates Palace. All the hotel rooms,
677 of them, boast views of either the
palace or the sea – it’s a win-win
situation for every guest who won’t be
complaining of the view from their
floor-to-ceiling windows.
The spacious rooms feature
necessary mod-cons including a
coffee machine and a touchscreen
control panel. The windows can be
opened to feel the sea breeze – a
welcome addition to those who
check-in during winter. A handwritten
welcome note, apart from
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HOTEL REVIEW
the TV screen already displaying my full
name by the time I reached my room,
satisfyingly personalizes the entire
experience of checking into the hotel.
There’s a year-round outdoor pool
and sun terrace. If the mood strikes,
there’s the private beach too that’s ideal
for a quick dip or lazy day spent perfecting
your tan by the ocean. The beach, as is the
pool, is fully serviced – the staff are always on the
ready with fresh towels or a mocktail. If you must feel the
need to connect to the internet, if only to post a
humblebrag about your stay in the five-star property on
social media, it’s good to know that there’s free WiFi
throughout the property.
EAT
When it’s time to eat, there are plenty of restaurants.
Fine-dining options include a Peruvian and Latin American
experience at Limo, which is unique as it has no menu.
Diners choose from cold starters, hot mains and sweet
desserts served on a trolley. Our waiter impressed us
with his knowledge on each dish (and their lengthy
names). The head chef makes it a point to meet all the
guests in his restaurant.
That is where the muddle and confusion ends. The chef
is from Peru, with an Asian background and heritage. We
start our meal with seafood ceviche – beautifully
presented octopus and prawns worked well with some
cancha (toasted corn) that lent a satisfying crunch to the
dish. The second starter, a mixture of pan seared scallop
and apple, was presented within the shell of an oyster and
served on top of a collection of sands and rocks as if it
had just washed up on a beach.
The main hot plates include Jalea de Marisco, lightly
battered seafood full of flavour. For carnivores, there’s
the Beef Anticucho, beautifully tender skewers of meaty
pieces of heart with rustic mashed potatoes, smoked
anticuchera sauce and quail egg. To finish, there was a
choice of Cacao mousse and Peruvian bavarois – a cream
based dessert and rice pudding with lychee and chica
morada in oyster shells.
Apart from Limo, there’s also the Moroccan-themed
Artisan Kitchen if you’re searching for an experience
that’s characteristic of the region. You’ll find freshly-baked
croissants and a wide selection of juices for breakfast,
Need to know:
Room rates from
Dhs675 per night.
The hotel also offers a
Presidential Suite. Visit
millenniumhotels.com
oven-cooked Italian pizzas for lunch or
grilled-fish for dinner, among other
standouts, throughout the day.
Breakfast is presented with a diverse
selection that includes the usual eggs
cooked to your specifications, pastry
stations, saj, Asian noodles, sausage,
salads, cheeses, fresh waffles, pancakes
and fruit. Lunch is served buffet style in the
Artisan kitchen, with an abundance of desserts,
salads and vegetables that complement the main protein
dishes of braised beef, baked fish, curries, Moroccan
tagine chicken, apart from grilled chicken and pasta dishes
made to order.
BUSINESS + PLEASURE
There are several spaces for events geared towards
business or leisure. There are a number of large event
rooms for conferences, while the Executive Lounge is a
more informal, yet sophisticated, space for smaller
gatherings. The events team can also create a customised
dream wedding experience held in the spacious Al Dana
ballroom with mesmerizing sea views and stunning décor.
THE TREATMENTS
There’s a state-of-the-art gym with all the latest Technogym
equipment from free weights to strength machines which
will bring out the Hercules in you. After the workout, hit
Ayana Spa. The Moroccan-inspired spa located on the
fourth- and fifth-floor comprises of separate male and
female sections. The spa includes six treatment rooms, a
sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi, ice bucket and a relaxation area
for ultimate comfort and rejuvenation prior to or after the
treatment. Guests are spoilt for choice with an extensive
menu including treatment massages – Thai, Hot Stone, and
Moroccan among others, as well as an assortment of body
scrubs and facials.
I indulged in a 60-minute medium (that felt like
maximum) pressure hot stone full-body massage. From
the scented oils to the machine-like hand deep tissue
massage, all my stress, aches, pains were forced out of me
whilst detoxifying, invigorating and rendering me a
restored, rested and rejuvenated person. The therapist
was professional, knowledgeable and pleasant. The touch
of hot stones paled in comparison to the deep tissue
massage on my back and legs.
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T he e s s e n c e o f A r a b i a
Bab Al Qasr Hotel
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REAL ESTATE
EXCLUSIVE
ADDRESS
Waterfront living in the heart of Bangkok
By Nicola Monteath
Bangkok has long been a hub for
travellers, especially from the Middle
East. It’s just under seven hours away
from Dubai, and quite the metropolis,
with sights along the road that make
you want to take a second glance,
aromas of lemongrass, exotic fruit and
freshly prepared food, plenty of
shopping strips, traditional architecture,
and historical landmarks worth a visit.
Of late, Bangkok has been seeing an
influx of international brands making
their entrance into the city, to create
lavish private residences for their evergrowing
expat population.
Four Seasons Private Residences
Bangkok is a highly-anticipated project
from Thailand-based international real
estate developer Country Group
Development PCL. Nestled on the city’s
first paved street, Charoen Krung Road,
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REAL ESTATE
and set along the Chao Phraya River,
this 32 billion Baht ($1 billion)
development will span over 350 metres
of waterfront across 14.2 acres, making
it one of the largest waterfront plots of
land in Bangkok’s CBD area. The estate
will include the residences, Four Seasons
Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River –
built to resemble a lavish urban resort –
and Capella Hotel Bangkok. Currently,
Sky Lounge FS Club
the area is of historical significance, with
the river boasting five-star hotels,
boutique markets, verdant parks, and
internationals schools with fees along
the lines of Dubai’s finest.
Almost 70 per cent of the Private
Residences have already been sold, with
20 per cent available before completion.
Those looking to secure one, can opt for
studios from 115 square metres, all the
way up to five bedrooms and 1,045
square metre penthouses. The highlights
of the 73-storey tower are its state-ofthe-art
amenities featuring a River
Lounge where you can kickback after a
long day at the Gallery, Garden terrace
or living room; and the Amenities Deck
showcasing a river facing infinity pool,
dedicated children’s pool, outdoor
Jacuzzis, a playroom for little ones,
massage suites, indoor heated tubs,
private cabanas, yoga and Pilates studios,
multipurpose function rooms with a
kitchen/BBQ area and entertaining
spaces for when friends and family visit.
The rooftop Four Seasons Club triplex
is a stunner, offering hotel-style facilities
for residents. Expect stunning views of
the river from floor 64-66, combined
with the finest of luxuries – glass-walled
wine room to store vintage labels and
hold tasting sessions, golf stimulator,
resident’s bar, private screening room,
music studio, teen dens, the city’s tallest
residential infinity pool, and a private
room for cigar aficionados. Residents can
also utilize the hotel amenities, but with
almost everything available within the
residence tower, we feel like stepping out
will most likely only be for school-or
grocery-runs. In fact, even that won’t be
necessary, as à la carte services provided
by Four Seasons include dry cleaning and
laundry, catering, grocery stocking,
housekeeping and limousine service.
Buying real estate in Bangkok is said
to be a straight-forward and stress-free
process. According to Ben Taechaubol,
Director and CEO of Country Group
Development PCL, an approximate
rent for a two-bedroom apartment at
this property will range from Dhs12,000
per month, if landlords do wish to lease
their space. Buyers can own this
property for up to 75 years, comprising
of an initial term of 25 years, with two
renewal options.
Visit chaophrayaestate.com
for further information
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ENTREPRENEUR
FAMILY DINING
IS BEST AT…
Newton Ferrers and Noss
Mayo, where you’ll find
picture-perfect seaside pubs
that serve good, no-frills food
with local hops and a charming
atmosphere. A little further
along the coast you’ll come to
the unspoilt beaches at
Salcombe, part of the South
Devon Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty, where I have
childhood memories of
shrimp fishing on family
holidays. Norfolk – where I
am from – is also a great spot
for Blakeney Brancaster.
FIVE INGREDIENTS
IN MY PANTRY
Jasmine tea, vanilla pods, olive oil,
maldon salt and dried yeast.
A DISH I CAN EAT ANY
TIME OF DAY?
Joel Robuchon’s vanilla ice cream.
MOST RECENT PURCHASE
New shoes from Tod’s
MOST PEOPLE
DON’T KNOW…
I’m a bit too patient.
TRAVEL FOR A MEAL
I’d head to California to dine at
The French Laundry by Thomas
Keller - his tasting menu is
amazing. I’d follow that with a
trip to Chad Robertson’s
Tartine for sourdough bread.
GET TO KNOW…
TOM
AIKENS
the youngest British chef
to be awarded two
Michelin stars is also the
founder of Pots, Pans and
Boards at Beach Mall, JBR
MORNING ROUTINE
I’m usually woken up by my children and do
a 30-minute stretch exercise routine soon
after. The day begins with a fresh fruit and
vegetable cold-pressed juice – which my
children call a “yucky juice” – followed by
breakfast at times. I have either a bowl of
cereal with extra bits on like flax seeds,
hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds with a nut
milk and some fruit.
IF I WEREN’T A CHEF, I’D BE…
Most likely into sport. I love keeping fit and
have run a few marathons and ultra
marathons, as well as the Marathon Des
Sables in the Sahara.
A CELEBRITY CHEF I ADMIRE
Alain Ducasse, as he is the perfect gentleman
and an amazing chef that has become a
global icon and inspiration to many.
FAVOURITE READ
The Monk that Sold his Ferrari. It’s
about a man who had to alter
his outlook to life and day-today
existence, or else he would
die. So he jacked it all in, sold his
business and became a monk in
a monastery to empower
himself from being an
overweight business executive
to a healthy human being.
Be passionate, caring,
hardworking, dedicated
and most importantly
look, watch, listen
carefully and follow
orders. Work hard, have
self-belief, be patient and
persevere - sometimes
working as a chef involves
taking steps backwards
and forwards to get to
where you want to be
THE PERFECT WEEKEND
Spending time with my kids,
having a little lie in on a Saturday
morning, and then pancakes for
breakfast. We then go to the
country side, walk the dogs when
there, pick up an ice cream or
two and head home for a
beautiful roast chicken lunch. I like
to brine it for 12 hours, air dry at
room temperature for another
12 hours and then slow cook at
120C for 60 minutes, followed
by an hour’s rest. I then blast is at
210C for eight to ten minutes,
rest again and carve it. This meal
is shared between friends and
family. Sometimes we go to zoo,
feed the monkeys, head home
and bake a cake.
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